The Vatican announced Pope Francis’ death on Easter Monday (April 21). A statement said the head of the Catholic Church died at 7.35am.

The king has now released a statement via the royal family’s social pages.

King Charles and Queen Camilla ‘deeply saddened’ by Pope Francis’ death

The statement from the king said that he and Camilla felt “deeply saddened” by the news.

The statement went on: “Out 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.”

The Pope made his final public appearance on Easter Sunday. He attended a blessing at the Vatican’s St Peter’s Square.

King Charles, 76, continued: “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 king added: “The queen and I remember with particular affection our meetings with His Holiness over the years. 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 king signed off the statement with “Charles R”.

When did King Charles and Queen Camilla meet with the Pope?

On April 9, the king and queen met with the Pope. The visit came as he recovered from double pneumonia. Despite his ill health, the Pope found time to meet with the couple.

A photo shared on the royal family’s Instagram page showed the king and queen meeting with the Pope. A message described the meeting as “special”.

Death of Pope Francis announced by the Vatican

Cardinal Kevin Farrell announced the news of Pope Francis’ death. The statement read: “Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis.

“At 7.35am this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church.”

It added: “He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised.

“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 the One and Triune God.”