In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, One God. Amen.

April 23,2025.

To: His Eminence, the College of Cardinals

The Roman Catholic Church

Vatican City.

Your Eminences and Beloved Brothers in Christ,

It is with profound sorrow and fraternal compassion that I extend, on behalf of the Eritrean Orthodox Tewahdo Church in exile and in my own name, heartfelt condolences to the Roman Catholic Church on the falling asleep in the Lord of His Holiness Pope Francis.

In this solemn hour, we give thanks to Almighty God for the life and ministry of a shepherd who bore the weight of the office entrusted to him with humility, courage, and unwavering dedication to the flock committed to his care. His Holiness Pope Francis inspired many with his commitment to mercy, justice, and care for the poor—an echo of the Gospel values we hold in common as apostolic Churches.

As one who, under my former name, Fr. Abba Peteros Ghebre-Selassie, had the privilege to attend the Second Vatican Council as an observer representing the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, I have long borne witness to the deepening of dialogue and mutual respect between our Churches.

We pray that the soul of His Holiness may find rest among the righteous and that his memory be eternal. We also lift our prayers for the Roman Catholic Church as she entrusts herself to the guidance of the Holy Spirit in discerning her next shepherd.

May the Spirit of truth and consolation abide with you in these days of mourning and transition.

In the hope of the resurrection,

† Bishop Makarios

Bishop General of the Coptic Orthodox Church and

Overseer of the Eritrean Tewahdo Orthodox Church in Diaspora.

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