Vatican City, Sep 28, 2016 / 07:57 am
Upon learning about the death of Shimon Peres Wednesday, Pope Francis sent a telegram offering his condolences and his appreciation for the former president of Israel's tireless efforts for peace and the common good.
"As the State of Israel mourns Mr. Peres," the Pope wrote, "I hope that his memory and many years of service will inspire us all to work with ever greater urgency for peace and reconciliation between peoples."
In the Sept. 28 telegram, sent to current President of Israel, Reuven Rivlin, the pontiff expressed hope that the work which Peres, 93, began during his lifetime will continue.
"I fondly recall my time with Mr. Peres at the Vatican and renew my great appreciation for the late President's tireless efforts in favor of peace," he said.