At Pope Francis’ inauguration Mass in 2013, the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester attended on behalf of the UK. Back in 2005, it was the late Prince Philip who represented the Queen at Pope Benedict XVI’s ceremony.

After Pope Francis passed away on April 21, just a couple of weeks after he and Camilla had met with him on April 9, the King shared a heartfelt message. (Their meeting had originally been delayed because of the pope’s health.)

“My wife and I were most deeply saddened to learn of the death of Pope Francis,” the monarch said in a statement released by Buckingham Palace. “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.”

King Charles continued his tribute by saying, “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 said. “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.”

Looking back on the many times he met Pope Francis over the years, the King added, “We were greatly moved to have been able to visit him earlier in the month.”