Catholic Bishop died as a brave hero, says Lakes state governor

July 17, 2011 (JUBA) – Authorities in Lakes state have begun playing their tributes to the Catholic Diocese of Rumbek after the death of Rumbek Diocese Bishop Caesar Mazzolari on Saturday morning.

The Governor of Lakes state Chol Tong Mayay, said that Mazzolari’s death is regrettable and had taken Lakes state’s government and inhabitants by surprise.

Mayay said that Bishop Mazzolari “died as our hero” and that his bravery should be copied by citizens of Lakes state.

“I ask all his students and all those who know Mazzolari to be at that burial in Rumbek”.

Governor Mayay said that late Bishop Mazzolari has put his life into promoting education and Christianity in Lakes state. He said that Bishop had played a great role in preaching peace and reconciliation across Lakes state as well the development activities in rural areas.

Mayay said that late Mazzolari would be remembered through his hard work. He pointed out that the late Bishop was expected to take a lead in building the new nation of South Sudan, which became independent on July 9.

Messages of condolences have been received in Rumbek from Pope Benedict XVI in a letter signed by the Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone. Condolences have also been received from the Prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of the Peoples, Msgr. Fernando Filoni and the Secretary, Msgr. Savio Hon Tai-Fai.

Bishop Mazzolari was 74 years old when he died. He was appointed as the Apostolic Administrator of Rumbek Diocese in 1990 and consecrated the Bishop of Rumbek Diocese on January 6, 1999. He devoted his serviced for the Church of South Sudan and leaves behind a legacy of a life well lived.

(ST)