King Charles said Pope Francis will be remembered for his “compassion” as he paid tribute just weeks after visiting the pontiff at The Vatican.
The King said he and Queen Camilla were “deeply saddened” over his death aged 88.
However, he said their “heavy hearts have been somewhat eased” at seeing Pope Francis sharing an Easter Greeting “with the Church and the world he served with such devotion” just hours earlier.
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“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,” King Charles said in a 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.
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“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.”
The late Queen Elizabeth also met Pope Francis on numerous occasions.
King Charles is still undergoing treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer.
The Royal couple went to Rome on a short state visit.
The King, or a representative, will likely attend Pope Frances’ funeral.
