Vatican Radio REPORT: Pope Benedict XVI has sent a message of condolence at the passing of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church's Patriarch, His Holiness Abuna Paulos - a renowned ecumenist and inter-religious dialogue partner who led his Church for two decades before his passing on Thursday at the age of 76, after a lenghy illness. Below, please find the full text of Pope Benedict XVI's message. **************************************
Message of His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI on the passing of His Holiness Abuna Paulos, Patriarch of the Ethiopian Tewahedo Orthodox Church
Having learned with sadness of the death of His Holiness Abuna Paulos, Patriarch of the Ethiopian Tewahedo Orthodox Church, I wish to express my heartfelt condolences to the members of the Holy Synod, and to the clergy, religious and faithful of the Patriarchate. I still recall with satisfaction his visits to the Vatican, and in particular the address he delivered to the Second Special Assembly for Africa of the Synod of Bishops on 6 October 2009 and the important observations he made on that occasion. I am also grateful for his firm commitment to promoting greater unity through dialogue and cooperation between the Ethiopian Tewahedo Orthodox Church and the Catholic Church. As the Patriarchate mourns the death of His Holiness, I willingly offer an assurance of my prayers for the repose of his soul, and for all who mourn him.
Benedictus PP. XVI
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