HH expresses deep condolences to Pope, Catholic Church over Benedict XVI’s death
Speedwell Mupuchi
1 January 2023
PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema has expressed “deepest condolences” to His Holiness Pope Francis, the Catholic Church in Zambia and across the world on the passing of Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI.
Pope Benedict XVI died on Saturday morning aged 95.
“This is sad day for the Christian community,” the President wrote on his official Facebook Page on Saturday hours after the announcement of Pope Benedict XVI’s demise. “May his soul rest in peace. “
In tweet yesterday, Matteo Bruni, Director of the Holy See Press Office announced that “Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI, passed away today (Saturday) at 9:34 in the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery in the Vatican”.
From Monday 2 Jan 2023, the body of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI will lie in state in the Basilica of St Peter foe the faithful to pay their respects.
Pope Benedict XVI was the head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of the Vatican City State from April 19 2005 until his resignation on February 28 2013.
