VILNET, Jean - Lot 191

VILNET, Jean (1922-2013). Bishop of Lille and President of the French Bishops' Conference from 1981 to 1987. Autograph card signed on Lille bishopric letterhead. [circa 1980-1990]. In-12 oblong. Printed card: "Jean Vilnet - Bishop of Lille". bearing an autograph text in black ink, in which the prelate offers "his most religious greetings at the start of a new year" and expresses wishes "full of hope". Handsome autograph signature at the bottom of the text. An important figure in the post-Vatican II French episcopate, Jean Vilnet played a major role in relations between the French Catholic Church and public authorities during the 1980s, notably as President of the French Bishops' Conference. Very good condition; discreet marginal marks.