Pope lauds courage, humor of deceased Czech cardinal

April 20, 2010

At the April 20 funeral of Cardinal Tomas Spidlik, Pope Benedict XVI praised the Czech Jesuit theologian for his courageous witness to the faith, his buoyant sense of humor despite adversity, and his contributions to the understanding of Eastern Christian theology. The Pontiff said that Cardinal Spidlik-- who died on April 16 at the age of 90-- "became ever more eloquent with the passing of the years because, despite his advanced age and inevitable health problems, his spirit remained fresh and youthful.

Cardinal Angelo Sodano, the dean of the College of Cardinals, was the principal celebrant of the funeral liturgy, held in St. Peter's basilica.

 

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Further information:

• Cardinal Spidlik, a Great Man of Faith (VIS)