Pope
Francis has sent the following telegram of condolence to the family of
Cardinal Domenico Bartolucci, who died today at 96 years of age.
He
was a former director of the Sistine Chapel Choir who was created a by
Pope Benedict XVI in the consistory of 20 November 2010.
“Upon
receiving the news of the death of the venerated Cardinal Domenico
Bartolucci, I wish to express to the foundation that bears his name, to
his family and his Florentine diocesan community my most heartfelt
condolences. I recall affectionately this dear and highly esteemed
priest, an illustrious composer and musician, who exercised his long and
intense ministry, especially through religious music, born of and
expressing faith. I also remember with great gratitude his fruitful work
as director of the Sistine Chapel Choir and his wise … of the precious
gift of polyphony, intended to elevate the heart in praise of God. I
raise fervent prayers to the Lord that, through the intercession of the
Blessed Virgin Mary, He may welcome his generous servant and
distinguished man of the Church in spiritual joy and eternal peace, and
impart the comfort of an apostolic blessing to those who mourn his
loss”.Cardinal Bartolucci's funeral will be celebrated on 13 November at
3.30 p.m. at the altar of the Chair of St. Peter in the Vatican
Basilica.
With his death, the College of Cardinals is now composed as follows: 200 cardinals, of which 109 are electors.