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King Charles Pays Tribute Following the Death of Pope Francis

King Charles has expressed his condolences following the passing of Pope Francis, who died on April 21 at the age of 88. The King had recently met with the Pope, alongside Queen Camilla, less than two weeks prior to his death, marking a poignant moment in their ongoing relationship.

In a heartfelt statement, Charles said, “My wife and I were most deeply saddened to learn of the death of Pope Francis. Our heavy hearts have been somewhat eased, however, to know that His Holiness was able to share an Easter Greeting with the Church and the world he served with such devotion throughout his life and ministry.”

He reflected further on the Pope’s legacy, noting, “His Holiness will be remembered for his compassion, his concern for the unity of the Church, and for his tireless commitment to the common causes of all people of faith, and to those of goodwill who work for the benefit of others. His belief that care for Creation is an existential expression of faith in God resounded with so many across the world. Through his work and care for both people and planet, he profoundly touched the lives of so many.”

Prior to the recent meeting, a public audience planned between King Charles and the Pope had to be postponed due to the Pope’s declining health. However, Charles and Camilla were able to visit him privately at Casa Santa Marta in the Vatican on April 9, coinciding with their 20th wedding anniversary.

Reflecting on this visit, Charles expressed, “The Queen and I remember with particular affection our meetings with His Holiness over the years, and we were greatly moved to have been able to visit him earlier in the month. We send our most heartfelt condolences and profound sympathy to the Church he served with such resolve and to the countless people around the world who, inspired by his life, will be mourning the devastating loss of this faithful follower of Jesus Christ.”

Previously, Charles had met with Pope Francis during significant occasions, including a visit in 2019 and another in 2017 when he presented the Pope with gifts from his estate at Highgrove, as reported by Town & Country.

During their 2017 meeting, the Pope imparted a blessing on the then Prince of Wales, saying, “Wherever you go, may you be a man of peace,” to which Charles replied, “I’ll do my best.”

The recent visit by Charles and Camilla lasted about 20 minutes, during which they exchanged gifts to celebrate their anniversary. Following the meeting, the couple shared their experiences on social media, describing the encounter as a “special moment” and expressing their gratitude for the Pope’s thoughtful remarks.

According to a senior palace official, the ability for Charles and Camilla to meet the Pope was one of the most significant highlights of their recent state visit to Italy. The official stated, “I think outside of the official program, the most significant and indeed moving thing was that visit to the Pope. We didn’t know until the last minute that it would be possible. But when the Pope asked if he could see the King and Queen, Their Majesties were clearly very pleased.”

The official added that the Pope wished to personally congratulate the King and Queen on their anniversary, emphasizing the significance of their connection with him over the years and their shared prayers for his health.

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