Three elegantly dressed people pose together in a room with a painting in the background. — King Felipe VI, Pope Francis, and Queen Letizia of Spain during the visit to the Supreme Pontiff in 2014 | Redacción

Camara — King Felipe VI, Pope Francis, and Queen Letizia of Spain during the visit to the Supreme Pontiff in 2014 | Redacción

King Felipe VI bid farewell to Pope Francis with a message of deep respect

The Spanish monarch and other European royal houses expressed their sorrow after the death of the pontiff

22/04/2025 11:20:00h

Editorial Team

King Felipe VI publicly lamented thepassing of Pope Francis. In a telegram sent to Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the Sacred College of Cardinals, the monarch expressed his condolences on behalf of the entire Spanish royal family.

In the message, he highlighted the spiritual legacy of the pontiff: "His conviction of the need to bring encouragement and comfort to the poorest and most needy will always inspire us." He also emphasized his advocacy for dialogue and the pursuit of a more just and supportive world.

Reactions from other royal houses

The death of Pope Francis also caused reactions in other European monarchies. From the United Kingdom, King Charles III fondly recalled his recent meeting with the pontiff at Casa Santa Marta, alongside Queen Camilla.

In a statement, he expressed his sadness over the loss of "a faithful follower of Jesus Christ" and highlighted his commitment to the unity of the Church and the common causes of all people of faith and goodwill.

The King's message following the death of Pope Francis expresses sadness over his passing, highlighting his devotion and commitment to the Church and humanity. His compassion, concern for the unity of the Church, and dedication to common causes are remembered. Meetings with the Pope are mentioned, and condolences are sent to the Church and those inspired by his life.

King Charles III's message after the passing of Pope Francis (capture X) | Redacción

Charles III also praised the pontiff's ecological message: "His belief that caring for Creation is an existential expression of faith in God resonated with many people around the world."

A legacy of humility and closeness

Kings Willem-Alexander and Máxima of the Netherlands recalled the private audience they had with the pope during their official visit to the Vatican in 2017. In their statement, they described the pontiff as a man of deep faith who "radiated mercy in everything he did."

Two people conversing in a formal setting, one of them wearing religious attire.

King Felipe VI and Pope Francis in 2014 | Redacción

Philippe and Mathilde of Belgium also expressed their condolences and highlighted the humble and committed nature of Pope Francis. They thanked him for his visit to their country and described him as "a great man, close to the most humble and concerned about the world's problems."

All these expressions of affection reflected the universal impact left by Pope Francis, both in the spiritual and political and social realms. His figure will remain etched in the memory of millions of people as a leader committed to compassion, justice, and humanity.

➡️ Argentina