The Vicar General of Catholic Diocese of Rumbek said Bishop Caesar Mazzolari, who died suddenly this morning, gave his life for the nation.
Bishop Mazzolari passed away early in the morning after suffering a heart attack during the mass.Vicar-general Fr. Andrea Osman Okello told Good News Radio that the Bishop was concelebrating at the Mass when he suddenly sat back on his chair just at the beginning of consecration with breathing problems.
Bishop Mazzolari was taken first to the sacristy and then to his room where he was seen by a medical doctor.
He was transported to Rumbek Hospital where he died.
Fr. Andrea said the death certificate says the bishop died of heart attack.
He also suffered from diabetes and high blood pressure.
Fr. Andrea paid homage to Bishop Mazzolari, saying he was a courageous and hardworking person who died for the nation.
He said that the funeral may be on Thursday for other bishops to be able to attend.
Fr. Andrea asked people to pray for Bishop Mazzolari’s eternal rest.
He added that the bishop is already praying for his people from heaven.
Pope Benedict sent a message of condolences to the priests, religious and faithful of the diocese of Rumbek in a letter signed by the Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone.
The Congregation for the Evangelization of the Peoples sent also condolences.
Bishop Mazzolari, 74, devoted his life at the service of the Church in the Sudan and South Sudan.
He leaves behind a legacy of a life well lived.