Many prominent Catholics--particularly in Italy--are mourning the death today of Archbishop Pasquale Macchi, prelate emeritus of Loretto, Italy and former personal secretary to Pope Paul VI.

Pope Benedict XVI sent his own personal letter of condolence to Cardinal Dionigi Tettamanzi, who is Archbishop of Milan, recalling the 82-year old prelate who died yesterday.

In his letter, the Holy Father praised "the profound spirituality and generous episcopal commitment that characterized the ministry of the lamented prelate," and asked the Lord "to welcome him in eternal joy as a good and faithful servant, rewarding his constant dedication to spreading the Gospel and his devotion to the Most Holy Virgin Mary."

The Vatican announced today that Cardinal Tettamanzi will preside at Archbishop Macchi's funeral, which is scheduled to be held in the Duomo of Milan on Saturday April 8.

Cardinal Attilio Nicora, president of the Administration of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See will attend the funeral in place of the Holy Father.