Condolence messages on Pope's death

Anura condoles on Pope's death

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Investment Promotion Anura Bandaranaike in a condolence message on the death Pope John Paul II states:

"I wish to express my deep sorrow at the death of Pope John Paul II who passed away yesterday with his final hours full of uninterrupted prayer.

Pope John II who led the Catholic Church since 1978, fought hard for human dignity and freedom, restoration of moral values and upholding of the rights of the under privileged.

He was a unique leader, a Man of unbending faith and inspiration to all of us.

His Papacy will be remembered as one of historical significances.

I join the grieving Catholics of Sri Lanka to whom Pope John Paul II was their Father."

Whole world grieves over Pope's death - Christian Affairs Minister

CHRISTIAN and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Milroy Fernando in a condolence message on the demise of His Holiness Pope John Paul II said that the passing away of the pontiff grieved not only the Catholic community but also the world community as well.

The message further said that the efforts made by His Holiness the Pope towards world peace is today remembered with gratitude.

The message states:

"The greatest Shepherd of the entire Catholic Church His Holiness Pope John Paul the II who reined over the Catholic Church for almost 27 years and served not only the Catholic community, but the whole world as a world leader died on April 3. Unlike the other Popes, He as Jesus Christ did, travelled throughout the world and worked for the spiritual benefit of Catholics and the entire human race.

The passing away of His Holiness Pope John Paul II has grieved not only the Catholic community, but also the whole world. The efforts made by his Holiness the Pope for world peace and harmony to the religion is regarded with gratitude.

In this unbearable sorrowful moment, I as the Minister of Christian & Parliamentary Affairs of the Government of Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka and the Christian community of Sri Lanka express our profound sympathy with the entire Catholic community."