Papal condolences following death of Thai king
October 17, 2016
Pope Francis has sent condolences to Thailand’s prime minister following the death of the nation’s king.
“I was deeply saddened to learn of the death of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, and I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Members of the Royal Family and to all the people of the Kingdom at this sorrowful time,” Pope Francis wrote in his October 14 message.
He added, “I pray that, as a fitting tribute to the late King’s legacy of wisdom, strength and fidelity, all Thais may work together to further the path of peace, and I willingly invoke upon all who mourn his passing the consolation of divine blessings.”
The nation of 68 million is 94% Buddhist, 5% Muslim, and 0.5% Catholic.
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Further information:
- Il cordoglio del Santo Padre per la scomparsa del Re della Thailandia, Bhumibol Adulyadej, 14.10.2016 (Holy See Press Office)
- Bhumibol Adulyadej, 88, People’s King of Thailand, Dies After 7-Decade Reign (New York Times)
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