Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI in the condolence message sent to His Lordship Bishop Rayappu Joseph, through the Secretary of the Vatican State His Eminence Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, says :

THE MOST REVEREND RAYAPPU JOSEPH BISHOP OF MANNAR

Deeply saddened by the news of the tragic death of the Reverend Father Nicholapillai Packiyaranjith, His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI assures you and the late priest's family, together with the Sri Lankan province of the Society of Jesus and all the faithful of the Diocese, of his spiritual closeness in prayer.

While deploring the senseless act of violence committed against one who was serving the need, the Holy Father commends this noble priest's soul to the loving mercy of the Almighty God.

His Holiness again appeals for a cessation to the cycle of violence which has afflicted the Region for so long and for a renewed commitment to resolve differences by dialogue and mutual understanding. Upon all who mourn the passing of Father Packiyaranjith the Holy Father invokes the divine gifts of strength, consolation and comfort.