In a letter made public today, the Pope expressed his gratitude to Mario Agnes, who headed the Vatican daily from 1984 until his recent retirement.
The Holy Father notes "the coherent Christian commitment, love for the Church and exemplary faithfulness to the magisterium" that have accompanied Agnes' "testimony as a believer."
He said the former director "had always showed particular interest for the written communication of the Christian message."
As diocesan president of Catholic Action he strove "to give the Catholic lay presence a higher profile in the mass media forum," the Holy Father said. And as president of the Avvenire news agency, he distinguished himself for his competence "in dealing with the various themes associated with Italian ecclesial, cultural and political life," the Pope added.
Benedict XVI expressed his "sincere respect and profound gratitude" to Agnes, whom he chose to include among the Gentlemen of His Holiness "thus introducing you permanently into the pontifical family."
The Pope named Giovanni Maria Vian to succeed Agnes, the Vatican announced Saturday.
ZE07100207 - 2007-10-02