Milan Cathedral, February 24, 2005

Message of cardinal Carlo Maria Martini
(sent to cardinal Dionigi Tettamanzi)


I have come to know of the painful news of the death of Monsignor Luigi Giussani, zealous Ambrosian priest and founder of Communion and Liberation.

I join in the condolence and the prayer of the whole Archdiocese and of all his friends, entrusting to the divine mercy the faithful servant who, for the whole of his life with untiring love and enthusiasm, proclaimed the mystery of the Word made flesh.

May the Lord welcome him now, through the intercession of Mary, in his eternity of light from where he might pray for us, too, who, through shadows and images, are walking toward the heavenly Jerusalem, where there will be no more mourning, no weeping, but only mutual and joyous acknowledgement of those who have loved Christ and waited with joy for His manifestation.

As I have to leave shortly for Jerusalem, I promise a special remembrance of the dear departed at the tomb of Him who rose for our justification.

Galloro, February 22, 2005
Yours devotedly in Christ,
Carlo Maria Cardinal Martini