Death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI: UK condolence messages
His Majesty The King, the Prime Minister, and UK government ministers shared their condolences following the death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI.
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI
Following the announcement of the death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI on 31 December 2022, His Majesty The King, the British Prime Minister, the British Foreign Secretary, the Minister for Europe and the British Ambassador to the Holy See shared condolences messages:
His Majesty The King:
Your Holiness, I received the news of the death of your predecessor, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, with deep sadness. I remember with fondness my meeting with His Holiness during my visit to the Vatican in 2009. His visit to the United Kingdom in 2010 was important in strengthening the relations between the Holy See and the United Kingdom. I also recall his constant efforts to promote peace and goodwill to all people, and to strengthen the relationship between the global Anglican Communion and the Roman Catholic Church. My wife and I send you our continued good wishes for your own pontificate.
The Rt Hon Rishi Sunak MP, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom:
I am saddened to learn of the death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI. He was a great theologian whose UK visit in 2010 was an historic moment for both Catholics and non-Catholics throughout our country.
The Rt Hon James Cleverly, Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs:
Sad news that Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI has died. The UK sends our deepest condolences to His Holiness Pope Francis, Holy See and Catholics around the world.
The Rt Hon Leo Docherty MP, Europe Minister at the Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office:
Sorry to learn that Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI has passed away. The UK’s work with the Holy See took a great leap forward under his leadership – including the famous visit in 2010 – and has continued to grow ever stronger, as I saw first-hand during my recent visit.
Christopher Trott, British Ambassador to the Holy See:
I am deeply saddened to hear of the death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI. I will always remember his visit to the United Kingdom with great affection. His pontificate was historic and his legacy will endure.