The following is the telegram of condolence from the Holy Father to Archbishop Samuel Kleda of Douala, Cameroon, on the death on Friday 2 April of His Eminence Cardinal Christian Wiyghan Tumi, of the Titular church of Santi Martiri dell’Uganda a Poggio Ameno, archbishop emeritus of Douala:

Telegram of the Holy Father

His Excellency Samuel KLEDA

Archbishop of Douala DOUALA

On learning with sorrow of the death of our brother Cardinal Christian Tumi, I wish to express my condolences and my joining in prayer with the College of Cardinals, the family and friends of the deceased as well as with all those touched by this bereavement. Appointed bishop of Yagoua, then archbishop of Garoua and Douala, Cardinal Tumi left an unforgettable mark on the Church as well as on the social and political life of his country, always committing himself courageously to the defence of democracy and the promotion of human rights. In later years, he was always available to serve peace and reconciliation. Created Cardinal by Saint John Paul II in 1988, he was a faithful collaborator with the Popes, assuming various offices within the Roman Curia. May the Lord welcome his Servant in his peace and joy! As a token of comfort, in this Easter season, I impart to you, Your Excellency, my Apostolic Blessing, as well as to the family and friends of the deceased Cardinal, especially to those who were with him in recent years, and to all those who will take part, in the hope of the Resurrection, in the celebration of the funeral.

FRANCISCUS PP.