King Charles offered a heartfelt homage to Pope Francis, who di:ed at the age of 88 earlier this morning (April 21).
Vatican camerlengo Cardinal Kevin Farrell announced the news on Monday (21 April) in an official statement which reads: “At 7.35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church.
“He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially for the poorest and most marginalised.”
The official’s statement went on to say: “With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite, merciful love of God, One and Tribune.”
Following the news, Charles has stated that he and Queen Camilla, who visited the pontiff at the Vatican on April 9, the day they celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary, were’most deeply saddened’ to learn of Pope Francis’ death and ‘were greatly moved to have been able to visit him earlier in the month’.
The complete statement reads: “My wife and I were very grieved to learn of Pope Francis’ passing. Our heavy hearts are somewhat relieved to know that His Holiness was able to send an Easter greeting to the Church and the world he served with such love throughout his life and service.
“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.”
The statement concluded: “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.”
Sir Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, has also praised Pope Francis as ‘a Pope for the poor, the oppressed, and the forgotten’, claiming that ‘hope was at the heart of his papacy’.
The Pope di:ed after a period of illness that included being taken to the hospital in February for more than a month owing to double pneumonia.
His last public appearance was just one day before his d3ath, and he wished them a Happy Easter.
