Dear Professors, Employees, and Students,

Fully aware that beginning on Monday, May 14, the presence of both police and forensic agents on our facilities--including the massive presence of cameras and photographers, and the deployment of police officers guarding the entrance--has created many inconveniences in the academic environment, we would like to offer an explanation to clarify and contextualize the situation.  (continues...)

We knew that during the month of May the crypt in the Basilica would be examined, and we offered our collaboration to aid the investigators' work. We did not know however, the precise date it would take place. We later increased our availability to the investigative bodies, providing them with any requested attention, additional information and data, as well as the the maximum viability of space necessary for the operations.

As you know, the tomb of Renato De Pedis was placed in the Basilica--which is under the responsibility of the Vicariate of Rome--on April 24, 1990. This was before the Basilica became the University Chapel, which happened on September 1, 1991 with the installation of the first Chaplain.

Certainly you will have read many details related to this story in the press. In these past years however, we have requested many times to remove the remains to a more adequate location, without neglecting the family and the other victims involved.

That day has finally arrived and we believe that within a short time, we will return to normality. For these reasons, we ask you to pray that this complex situation can be resolved as soon as possible.

Thank you for your understanding.

Rev. Manuel Miedes
Secretary General