Transcript for Pope Francis Asks for Clemency for Georgia Death Row Inmate Kelly Gissendaner

Thank you ladies and gentlemen I'd like to agree to you know the text of the letter. That was issued. In the name of Pope Francis. The 29 of September 2015. Address to the members of the board of the Georgia Parole Board. As the personal representative of his holiness Pope Francis. To the United States of America. I make an urgent appeal on his behalf. For a commutation. Of the death sentence of miss Kelly guess and honor. Who is scheduled to be executed later today. S a holy father said in his address to the joint session of congress last Thursday. And I quote. This conviction of our responsibility. To defend. Human life at every stage. Has led me from the beginning of my ministry. To advocate at different levels where the global abolition. Of the death penalty. I am convinced that this way is the best. Sense every life is sacred. Every human being isn't followed with an an inalienable dignity. And society can only benefit. From the rehabilitation of those convicted of crimes. While not wishing to minimize the gravity of the crime for which ms. guess and honor has been convicted. And while some but dicing with the victims. I nonetheless implore you in consideration of the reasons. That you have been presented to your board. To commute the sentence to one that would better express. Both justice and mercy. Please be assured of my prayers. As you consider this request. By Pope France's or and I believe would be a just act of clemency. With a deep respect. And an appreciation where you're dedicated service to the people of Georgia. I am sincerely yours archbishop Carlo Murray B gun Ole. Apostolic known seal. That letter was sent to to the board and has been received. And now is in the public domain.

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