Africa-Press – Seychelles. It is with profound sadness that I learnt of the passing of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI whom I had the privilege and honour of meeting on two occasions at the Vatican during my presidency of the Republic of Seychelles. His candour, unassuming demeanour, the peace he radiated and his sense of humility left a deep impression on me during those two audiences, memories which I shall forever cherish.
“His Holiness Pope Benedict was a man of peace and love, a firm believer in the unity of humanity and a foremost advocate of reconciliation between nations torn apart by war and strife. His abiding faith in the Almighty gave him the strength to fulfill his mission with the zeal, passion and ardour that we all remember him for. We admired, with infinite respect, all the efforts that he deployed in favour of peace, dialogue and reconciliation. His courage, his eloquence and sincerity in this regard are for all men and women of good will a source of unceasing inspiration.
“I join all Christians in Seychelles and all the men, women and children of the world in expressing to Your Holiness my deepest condolences on the passing of this great Apostle of Christ. May the soul of His Holiness Pope Benedict rest in eternal peace, and may you find the strength and serenity to overcome this tremendous loss.
“Please accept, Your Holiness, the expression of my filial devotion and my highest consideration, while assuring you of my support in your heavy tasks as Pastor of the Catholic world.”
James A. Michel
Former President of the Republic of Seychelles
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