Cardinal Paolo Sardi's funeral was celebrated at the Altar of the Chair in St. Peter's Basilica. He was previously the coordinator for the office which edited John Paul II and Benedict XVI's speeches.
He was also one of the longest-serving officials at the Vatican Secretariat of State since 1976. Card. Tarcisio Bertone, Secretary Emeritus of the Secretariat of State, celebrated the ceremony.
CARD. TARCISIO BERTONE
The sudden death of Cardinal Paolo Sardi moves us intimately and profoundly. It gives us reason to meditate, to do an examination of conscience on the meaning of our life, on the greatness and fragility of our life.
In 1996, Card. Sardi became apostolic nuncio with special duties. John Paul II specifically asked him to remain at his side.
From 2004 to 2011, he was Vice-Camarlengo of the Holy Roman Church.
In 2010, he was elected cardinal by Benedict XVI. He also participated in the Conclave that elected Pope Francis, who, despite being on vacation, blessed the remains of this prelate.
After the death of Cardinal Paolo Sardi, the College of Cardinals is now composed of 219 members, 110 electors and 109 non-electors.
