The Federal Government has condoled with the global Catholic community over the passage of retired Pontiff and Pope Emeritus, His Holiness, Benedict XV1, who passed on December 31 2022. He was aged 95
A statement issued on Tuesday and endorsed by the Spokesperson, Federal Ministry of External Affairs, Francisca Omayuli described the late Pope as a humble , dedicated lover of God noted for his humility, noble virtues, modesty and courage.
The statement says ” The Federal Government of Nigeria commiserate with The Holy See and global Catholic community on the passing of His Holiness, Benedict XV1, Pope Emeritus, on Saturday, 31st December ,2022. May his soul rest in peace”
Obsequies for the German-born 265th leader of the Catholic Church who stepped down in 2013 after eight years as a Pontiff due on health ground kicked off yesterday at the Vatican.
Pope Benedict,formerly Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger became the first pope to resigned since Pope Gregory X11 in 1415
The funeral service holds on Friday at Saint Peter Square, and is expected to be attended by the German and Italian governments