Pope Francis‘ funeral took place on Saturday, April 26th, with many world leaders, including Donald Trump and Melania Trump, in attendance. However, King Charles was not among them, sending his son Prince William in his place instead!
While the Prince of Wales has been stepping in for his father a lot over the past year due to the King’s ongoing battle with cancer, it wasn’t his health that prevented him and Queen Camilla from attending. In actual fact, it’s to do with an old royal rule! Keep reading for more info…
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Many World Leaders Attended The Pope's Funeral – But King Charles Was Noticeably Absent
Royal expert and author Katie Nicholl explained why King Charles was prohibited from attending the funeral in Vanity Fair, saying ahead of time that he would "not travel to the Vatican, in accordance with protocol and precedence which dictates that the Sovereign does not attend funerals, Buckingham Palace has confirmed."
Queen Elizabeth II didn't attend the funeral of Pope John Paul II back in 2005 for the same reason, and sent the then Prince Charles to the funeral in her place. Charles and Camilla even had to postpone their wedding because of the funeral!
King Charles Offers His Condolences With A Statement On Social Media
King Charles and Queen Camilla were fortunate enough to meet with the Pope a few weeks before his death during their royal trip to Italy last month. (Pictured above.) And although he didn't attend the funeral, King Charles issued an official statement to offer his condolences.
"My wife and I were most deeply saddened to learn of the death of Pope Francis," the King shared on social media on April 21st.
"Our heavy hearts have been somewhat eased, however, to know 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 continued.
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King Charles' statement went on: "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," he continued, adding: "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 this month."
