CARDINAL OTUNGA DIES AT 80

VATICAN CITY, SEP 6, 2003 (VIS) - The Holy Father sent a telegram to Archbishop Raphael S. Ndingi Mwana'a Nzeki of Nairobi, Kenya upon the death of Cardinal Maurice Michael Otunga, archbishop emeritus of the same archdiocese, at age 80. Following is the complete text:

"It is with deep sadness that I learned of the death of Cardinal Maurice Michael Otunga, and I wish to assure you and all the faithful of the archdiocese of Nairobi of my prayers to the Good Shepherd that, in His tender love, He will bring this dedicated servant speedily to the place prepared for him at the heavenly banquet. I join you in giving thanks to Almighty God for the many graces bestowed on the Church through Cardinal Otunga's long years of generous service as priest and bishop. With heartfelt condolences to all who mourn the loss of this devoted pastor, I cordially impart my apostolic blessing as a pledge of comfort and peace in the risen Savior."

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