As world leaders get ready to gather in Rome this Saturday for the funeral of Pope Francis, there’s one very noticeable absence that has people talking: King Charles III won’t be there.
That’s not because he didn’t want to attend—he and Pope Francis actually shared a warm, respectful relationship. It’s because, as strange as it sounds, he’s not allowed to go.
A Matter of Royal Protocol
According to long-standing royal tradition, the British monarch—who also serves as the Supreme Governor of the Church of England—does not attend funerals held in other countries, including those of Popes.
It might feel outdated, especially in today’s global and interfaith world, but it’s a protocol that’s stuck around. Instead, the heir to the throne steps in—which means Prince William will represent the Royal Family at the Vatican this weekend.
This isn’t new, either. Back in 2005, when Pope John Paul II passed away, it was then-Prince Charles who attended in Queen Elizabeth II’s place. Even more recently, when Pope Benedict XVI died in 2023, no royal attended at all—only a government representative was sent due to the Pope’s personal request.
Strange Timing?
What’s making King Charles’ absence feel even more unusual is the timing. Just days before the Pope’s sudden passing at age 88, the King visited him in person at the Vatican. The two reportedly shared a heartfelt meeting—one of the Pope’s last public engagements.
After the Pope’s death, King Charles released a moving statement, calling him a voice of compassion, unity, and care for both people and the planet:
“His Holiness will be remembered for his compassion, his concern for the unity of the Church, and his tireless commitment to the common causes of all people of faith… Through his work and care for both people and planet, he profoundly touched the lives of so many.”
Which makes his absence at the funeral all the more bittersweet.
Prince William Steps Into the Spotlight
Still, this weekend marks an important milestone for Prince William. This will be his first major international funeral representing the Crown, and some are seeing it as a defining step in his role as a global statesman.
He’s no stranger to the world stage—just last year, he attended the re-opening of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris and even crossed paths with Donald Trump, who reportedly called him a “good-looking guy.”
Now, as he heads to Rome to represent his father and country, Prince William is stepping further into a role that’s clearly growing bigger by the day.
What Do You Think?
Should King Charles have made an exception for someone he clearly admired? Or is it time we rethink some of these centuries-old traditions?
Let us know in the comments—and feel free to share this story with someone who loves royal history or wants to know more about the traditions shaping today’s world events.
