Pope Francis has sent a telegram to Cuba expressing his condolences following the "sad news" of Fidel Castro's death.
The message was addressed to Raúl Castro, Fidel's brother, who currently rules the island.
The Pope also expressed condolences to the government and to Cuba's people, and said he was offering prayers and entrusting the nation to the intercession of Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre, the patron saint of Cuba.
Archbishop Thomas Wenski of Miami said in a statement: "Now he awaits the judgment of God who is merciful but also just. His death provokes many emotions - both in and outside the island. Nevertheless, beyond all possible emotions, the passing of this figure should lead us to invoke the patroness of Cuba, the Virgin of Charity, asking for peace for Cuba and its people."
