**
To His Excellency Msgr. Francesco Beschi
Bishop of Bergamo
Upon hearing the news of the death of the revered Cardinal Loris Francesco Capovilla, I wish to express my condolences to you, to the entire diocesan community – of which by now he felt truly a part – the Sisters of the Poor Ones of Ca’Maitino in Sotto Il Monte, who lovingly assisted him, to relatives, friends and admirers of the worthy prelate. I think with affection of this dear brother who in his long and fruitful life has witnessed with joy the Gospel and served the Church obediently, first in the Diocese of Venice, then with caring affection beside Pope John XXIII,of whose memory he was the zealous custodian and expert interpreter. In his episcopal ministry, especially in Chieti-Vasto and in Loreto, he was always pastor, totally dedicated to the good of the priests and all the faithful, with a solid fidelity to the teachings of the Second Vatican Council. I pray to the Lord so that, through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Mark the Evangelist, He welcomes His faithful servant into joy and eternal peace, and, from the heart, I impart my Apostolic Blessing on those who mourn his passing.
[Original text: Italian]
[Translation by Deborah Castellano Lubov]
