The President of the Republic addressed a message of condolences to the Beja Diocese upon the passing away of Bishop Emeritus D. Manuel Falcão

Following is the text of the message of condolences from President Aníbal Cavaco Silva:

“It was with great regret that I received the news of the passing away of D. Manuel Falcão, Bishop Emeritus of Beja, an outstanding individuality in the Portuguese Catholic Church, possessor of remarkable qualities of intelligence which he placed at the service of dialogue between culture and the Church, and of a deep social sensitivity.

In this hour of mourning for all those who had the privilege of being acquainted with him, I address my most sincere condolences to the Beja diocese and to all its congregation.

Aníbal Cavaco Silva”