Prince William will join world leaders to attend Pope's funeral in place of King Charles
The Prince of Wales will join other world leaders as well as the UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer at the funeral of Pope Francis in the Vatican
Prince William will join world leaders in attendance at the funeral of Pope Francis in place of his father King Charles III.
The Prince of Wales will join others at St Peter's Basilica in the Vatican where the late Pope will be laid to rest. Alongside Prince William will be UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, US President Donald Trump and France's President Macron.
King Charles alongside his wife Queen Camilla met with the Pope two weeks ago during their royal visit to Italy, which was held at the Casa Santa Marta. The Pope has suffered ill health in recent months, including two bouts of pneumonia in February which saw him hospitalized.
William's appearance at the upcoming funeral was confirmed by Kensington Palace, who said in a statement: "The Prince of Wales will attend the funeral of Pope Francis, on behalf of His Majesty The King."
The decision for William to attend instead of Charles follows a tradition in the royal family, as Charles attended the funeral of Pope John Paul II in 2005 instead of the late Queen. Charles also would have been the Prince of Wales when he made the appearance.
Pope Francis' death came shortly after he greeted crowds at Easter celebrations on Sunday, where he waved and smiled as he drove around St Peter's Square cheered by thousands.
Shortly after his public appearance he was taken into a coma, with the Vatican declaring him dying at 7.35am. Vatican News said: "He did not suffer. It all happened quickly. It was a discreet death, almost sudden, without long suffering or public alarm, for a Pope who had always been very reserved about his health."
Shortly after the news broke around the world, King Charles issued a statement in reaction to the Pope's passing. He said: "My wife and I were most deeply saddened to learn of the death of Pope Francis.
"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."
He continued: "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."
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