On Tuesday Pope Benedict XVI sent a telegram of condolences to the brother and sister of Cardinal Luigi Poggi on news of his death. He was 92 years old.In his telegram the Pope recalls Cardinal Poggis many years of service in the Holy See’s diplomatic corps.
He served as apostolic nuncio in central Africa during the 1960’s and carried out missions to Eastern Europe during the pontificate of John Paul II.
In 1992, Cardinal Poggi was appointed Archivist and Librarian of the Holy Roman Church.
He was created Cardinal-Deacon on November 26, 1994.
Upon reaching the maximum age limit for voting in a conclave, Poggi resigned from his position in the Vatican Library and Archives.
In his telegram Pope Benedict praises the late cardinal’s fervent testimony priestly zeal and fidelity.
The funeral for Cardinal Poggi will be held Friday May 7th at 17.30 pm in St Peter’s Basilica.
It will be presided over by Cardinal Angelo Sodano, dean of the College of Cardinals.
At the end of the liturgy, Pope Benedict XVI will preside over the rites of Ultima Commendatio and Valedictio.
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