Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed condolences over the demise of Pope Francis, who died earlier Monday on the age of 88 on account of a chronic sickness.
In a letter addressed to Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, revealed by the Kremlin, Putin stated Pope Francis “enjoyed great international authority as a faithful servant of Christian teaching, a wise religious and statesman, and a consistent defender of the high values of humanism and justice.”
“During all the years of his pontificate, he actively promoted the development of dialogue between the Russian Orthodox and Roman Catholic churches, as well as constructive interaction between Russia and the Holy See,” Putin additional stated.
He additionally stated he had the chance to speak with him on many events and can “forever preserve the brightest memory of him,” describing him as an “outstanding person.”
“In this sorrowful hour, I would like to convey to you and the entire Catholic clergy words of sympathy and support,” he added.
Pope Francis was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina on Dec. 17, 1936, to Italian immigrant dad and mom.
He studied in Argentina and later in Germany earlier than being ordained as a Jesuit priest in 1969.
Over a decade into his papacy, Pope Francis remained a determine of admiration and controversy.
He sought to reform the Vatican’s forms, deal with corruption, and tackle among the church’s most urgent challenges.
While he was hailed for his humility and dedication to social justice, his management additionally drew sharp resistance from conservatives throughout the church and past.
The late pontiff was admitted to a hospital in Rome in February with bronchitis, which developed into bilateral pneumonia. He was discharged after 38 days to proceed his restoration in his Vatican residence. The Vatican introduced his demise earlier Monday.
Source: www.anews.com.tr