The following is the telegram of condolences for the death yesterday morning of His Eminence Cardinal Karl Lehmann of the Title of San Leone I, bishop emeritus of Mainz, Germany, sent by the Holy Father Francis to H.E. Msgr. Peter Kohlgraf, bishop of Mainz:

Telegram of the Holy Father

To His Most Reverend Excellency
Msgr. Peter Kohlgraf
Bishop of Mainz
MAINZ

With sorrow I have learned of the death of His Eminence Cardinal Karl Lehmann. I express my sincere condolences to you and to the faithful of the diocese of Mainz, assuring my prayers for the late Cardinal whom the Lord has called to Him after serious illness and suffering. In his long activity as a theologian and bishop, and as president of the German Episcopal Conference, he helped shape the life of the Church and of society. His heart was always open to the questions and challenges of the times, and to offer answers and directions starting from the message of Christ, to accompany people along their path, seeking what unites them beyond the confines of confessions, convictions and states. May Jesus, the Good Shepherd, grant His faithful servant the fulfilment and fullness of life in His heavenly kingdom. I heartily impart my Apostolic Blessing to you and to all those who mourn and remember the late Cardinal in prayer.

Pope Francis