Message of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI on the death of Fr.Jesus Reynaldo Roda, O.M.I.
His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI sent this message to Bishop Angelito Lampon, O.M.I., on the death of Father Jesus Reynaldo Roda, O.M.I.
The message was sent through Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, the Papal Secretary of State. It was released to the media by Archbishop Edward J. Adams, the Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines:
| "The Holy Father was saddened to learn of the brutal and tragic killing of Father Jesus Reynaldo Roda, O.M.I. on the island of Tabawan during the night of 15 January and the extends heartfelt condolences to all mourn his loss. Paying tribute to the courage and faithfulness shown by this generous priest in his ministry as head of ‘Notre Dame’ School, His Holiness commends Father Roda’s example to priests and people throughout the region, and especially to the young. He calls upon the perpetrators to renounce the ways of violence and to play their part in building a just and peaceful society, where all can live together in harmony. Entrusting the people of Tabawan to the maternal protection of Our Blessed Lady, the Holy Father is pleased to impart his Apostolic Blessing as a pledge of comfort and strength at this time of sorrow." |
Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone
Secretary of State
Pope Benedict has a deep personal concern for the Philippines, the only Christian nation in Asia. During his Christmas Message “To the City and to the World,” he address the Filipinos in clean, clear Tagalog.
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