The following is the telegram of condolences sent by the Holy Father Francis for the passing yesterday of the former German Federal Chancellor Helmut Kohl, sent to Her Excellency Mrs. Angela Merkel, Federal Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany.

Telegram of the Holy Father

I have learned with sorrow of the passing of the former Federal Chancellor Helmut Kohl, after a long and grave illness. I express to his family, as well as to you and all the German people who mourn the “Chancellor of Unity”, my heartfelt condolences. Chancellor Kohl, a great statesman and committed European, worked with farsightedness and devotion for the good of the people in Germany and in neighbouring European countries. May merciful God recompense his tireless efforts in favour of German unity and the union of Europe, as well as his commitment to peace and reconciliation. May the Lord grant him eternal joy and life in His heavenly home, and I implore God’s consolation and blessing upon his brethren and all those who mourn his passing.

Pope Francis