King Charles III issues statement on death of Pope Francis

“My wife and I were most deeply saddened to learn of the death of Pope Francis,” said the King’s official statement, published on April 21.

“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.

“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 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.

“Charles R.”

Prince William, the Prince of Wales, will attend the Pope’s funeral on Saturday, Kensington Palace announced. He will represent King Charles III and will join world leaders, including UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, US President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron, at the funeral service.

New Zealand will be represented by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon at the funeral. Mr Luxon will be attending Anzac Day services in Gallipoli the day prior.

“I will join those at St Peter’s Basilica mourning the loss of Pope Francis, while celebrating his service to the more than one billion Catholics across the world, including almost 450,000 in New Zealand,” said Mr Luxon.

FULL STORY

Facebook (The Royal Family/Facebook)

Prince William to attend the funeral of Pope Francis (BBC)

Prime Minister to attend Pope Francis’ funeral | Beehive.govt.nz (Beehive)