Here is the translation of the condolence telegram for the Cardinal’s death, sent by the Holy Father, Pope Francis, to the Bishop Franco Giulio Brambilla of Novara:
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To His Most Reverend Excellency
Bishop Franco Giulio Brambilla,
Bishop of Novara
Upon learning with sadness of the death of the revered Cardinal Lorenzo Antonetti, I wish to express my feelings of heartfelt sympathy to this diocesan community, which counts him among its most illustrious sons, as well as to his nephew Mario, his other nephews and nieces and respective relatives and to all those who have known and esteemed him.
I recall how the Cardinal, whose passing we grieve, was a zealous collaborator with the Holy See for many years, particularly as the papal representative in several countries, in the Secretariat of State, then as President of Administration of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See and finally, as Pontifical Delegate for the Papal Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi: everywhere, he rendered a much-appreciated witness of fervent priestly zeal and faithfulness to the Gospel. While I raise fervent prayers to the Lord Jesus that, with the intercession of the Virgin Mary, he may deign to grant the deceased Cardinal the eternal reward promised to his faithful disciples, I send your Excellency, the entire presbyterate and all those who share in the sorrow for his passing, a comforting special Apostolic blessing.
FRANCISCUS PP.
[Original text: Italian]
