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CV NEWS FEED // In the wake of Pope Francis’ passing on Easter Monday, the College of Cardinals expressed their gratitude to religious leaders and political officials who attended and assisted with the pontiff’s April 26 funeral.
The Holy See Press Office released an April 29 statement from the cardinals thanking the heads of churches and non-Catholic ecclesial communities who sent their delegations to the pope’s funeral, as well as representatives of Islam, Judaism, and other religions.
The cardinals also addressed the civil leaders from different countries, expressing that “their presence was particularly appreciated as participation in the suffering of the Church and the Holy See.” Their attendance was seen as a reflection of Pope Francis’ “unceasing commitment to promote faith, peace and fraternity among all the peoples of the earth.”
The communiqué also included thanks to the Italian authorities, the City of Rome, law enforcement, Civil Protection, media personnel, workers, and employees of the Holy See and Vatican City State Governorate. The cardinals noted that because of their efforts, the funeral celebrations “proceeded with order and calm.”
The College of Cardinals ended the communiqué with gratitude for those who attended the Jubilee of Teenagers April 27. The thousands who gathered, even in the shadow of the pope’s passing, “showed the face of a Church alive with the life of her Risen Lord.”
