WASHINGTON, D.C., AUG. 19, 2009 (Zenit.org).- Here is the letter Benedict XVI sent Aug. 10 to the family of Eunice Kennedy Shriver. The letter was sent through Archbishop Pietro Sambi, apostolic nuncio to the United States. Shriver, 88, died Aug. 11.
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To the Family of Eunice Kennedy Shriver,
As the official and personal representative of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI in the United States of America, I wish to convey to all of you, especially to Sargent and to Bobby, Maria, Timothy, Mark and Anthony, the warm greetings and paternal affection of the Holy Father.
His Holiness unites himself spiritually with each of you at this difficult time, holding close to his heart Eunice as she is called home to eternal life and trusting in the words of Sacred Scripture: «What will separate us from the love of Christ?» (Romans 8:35)
It is the Holy Father’s fervent prayer that the good Lord, Who is never outdone in generosity, will grant this woman of ardent faith and generous public service the reward of her many labors, particularly on behalf of those who are physically and mentally challenged, and that, as a Family, you will help comfort one another with the assurance of your faith in Christ Jesus, our Hope.
Making my own the sentiments of His Holiness, I remain, with cordial and respectful regards,
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Archbishop Pietro Sambi
Apostolic Nuncio
