Here is a Zenit translation of the telegram of condolence for the death, yesterday morning, of Cardinal Karl Lehmann, Bishop Emeritus of Mainz, Germany, sent by the Holy Father Francis to Monsignor Peter Kohlgraf, Bishop of Mainz.
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The Holy Father’s Telegram
To His Most Reverend Excellency
Monsignor Peter Kohlgraf
Bishop of Mainz, MAINZ
I learnt with sorrow the news of the decease of Cardinal Karl Lehmann. I express to you and to the faithful of the Diocese of Mainz my heartfelt condolences, assuring you of my prayer for the late Cardinal, whom the Lord has called to Himself after a serious illness and suffering. In his long activity as theologian and Bishop, as well as President of the German Episcopal Conference, he contributed to mold the life of the Church and of society. He always had at heart openness to the questions and challenges of the time and the offering of answers and guidelines drawn from Christ’s message. May Jesus, the Good Shepherd, give His servant the completion and fullness of life in His celestial Kingdom. Remembering in prayer the deceased Cardinal, I impart to you, and to all who mourn, my heartfelt Apostolic Blessing.
Pope Francis
