VATICAN CITY, 8 SEP 2008 (VIS) - Following the death of Cardinal Antonio Innocenti, the Pope has sent a telegram to Maria Antonietta Baggiani, sister of the deceased. The cardinal, who died on 6 September at the age of 93, was prefect emeritus of the Congregation for the Clergy, and president emeritus of the Pontifical Commission for the Cultural Patrimony of the Church and of the Pontifical Commission "Ecclesia Dei".

In his telegram, the Pope mentions "the witness of fervent priestly zeal and of faithfulness to the Gospel" shown by the Italian cardinal during his long service of the Church.

For its part, the Office of Liturgical Celebrations of the Supreme Pontiff has released a communique announcing that Mass for the eternal repose of Cardinal Innocenti will be presided by Cardinal Angelo Sodano, dean of the College of Cardinals, in the Vatican Basilica at 9 a.m. on 10 September.

Following the Eucharistic celebration, the Holy Father will address some words to those present and preside over the rites of "Ultima Commendatio" and "Valedictio".


Source: VIS