Pope Francis sends condolences for death of Cardinal Lehmann

Pope Francis has paid tribute to the stature of deceased German Cardinal Karl Lehmann recalling his fruitful activity as theologian, Bishop and President of the German Episcopal Conference.

In a telegramme addressed to the current Bishop of Mainz, the town where Lehmann served as bishop until 2016, the Pope described the Cardinal as having “contributed to shaping the life of the Church and of society, always open to the issues and the challenges of the time and committed to offering answers and orientations stemming from Christ’s message.”

Lehmann, Francis went on to say, was someone who was ever present to accompany people in their lives, always "seeking the thread that unites and overcomes the boundaries drawn by different confessions, certainties or States".

He assured his heartfelt prayers for those who are grieving the loss of the Cardinal whom, he said, the Lord has called to Him following a grave illness and much suffering.

The Pope concluded his message imploring Jesus to give his faithful servant fulfillment in the Kingdom of heaven.