TELEGRAM FOR THE MURDER OF A RELIGIOUS IN BURUNDI

VATICAN CITY, OCT 17, 2000 (VIS) - Given below is the text of a telegram sent in the Pope's name by Cardinal Secretary of State Angelo Sodano for the murder in Burundi of Sr. Gina Simionato of the Sisters of St. Dorothy. She was killed as she made her way to Sunday Mass in the company of three Burundian sisters who were slightly injured in the attack:

"Having learned of the tragic death of Sr. Gina Simionato, the Holy Father joins in prayer in the pain of her family, her congregation and the entire Church in Burundi. He asks the Lord to welcome into His Kingdom of Light this religious who devoted herself to the people of Burundi and to give her the reward promised to the disciples who serve their brothers in the example of the Savior. The Pope prays God to bring comfort to the wounded Burundian sisters and to all persons affected by this new attack, which deeply touches the Catholic community of the country. Invoking the assistance of the Holy Spirit on all the faithful gathered for the funeral so that they may be tireless artisans of peace and reconciliation in Burundi and throughout the region, His Holiness sends, as a sign of spiritual comfort, an affectionate apostolic blessing."

TGR;MURDER RELIGIOUS;...;BURUNDI; SODANO;VIS;20001017;Word: 230;