On Monday morning, the world woke up to the news that Pope Francis had died at the age of 88. As so many people mourn the loss of the first Latin American pope, King Charles has released a statement, sharing that he is “deeply saddened” by Pope Francis’ passing just days after he and Queen Camilla met with him at the Vatican.
The pope died the morning after Easter.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell read an announcement that shared the news of Pope Francis’ death from the chapel of the Domus Santa Marta.
“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow, I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” he said, per the Associated Press. “At 7:35 this morning, The Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the Father’s house. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His church.”
Pope Francis had been ill in recent months, having spent more than 30 days in the hospital in February while suffering from double pneumonia.
King Charles released a statement shortly after the news broke.
In a statement released via Buckingham Palace that was also shared on the royal family’s official social media channels, King Charles said, “My wife and I were most deeply saddened to learn of the death of Pope Francis.”
He continued, “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 noted that the pope will be remembered for his ‘compassion.’
“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,” Charles added in his statement. “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.”
Pope Francis was known for boldly taking a stand on issues such as climate change and for showing more compassion to the LGBTQ community than the popes who came before him have, warning the Catholic church against judging others.
Camilla and Charles met with Pope Francis on April 9.
Though Charles and Camilla had to postpone their visit to the Vatican, which was originally scheduled to take place when he was ill earlier this year, they were able to meet with Pope Francis earlier this month.
“Their Majesties King Charles and Queen Camilla this afternoon had a private meeting with His Holiness Pope Francis at the Vatican,” read a statement from Buckingham Palace at the time. “Their Majesties were delighted The Pope was well enough to host them – and to have had the opportunity to share their best wishes in person.”
