Pope Francis offers his condolences to Queen Elizabeth II and highlights the service of Prince Philip

The Pope Francisco conveyed his condolences to the Queen isabel II of England for the death of her husband, the Duke of Edinburgh, of whom he emphasized his “public service record”, The Holy See reported this Saturday in a statement.

The pontiff offered his condolences to the monarch in a telegram sent to Buckingham Palace on her behalf, as usual, by the Vatican secretary of state, Cardinal Pietro Parolin.

“Saddened to learn of the death of her husband, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, His Holiness Pope Francis offers his heartfelt condolences to His Majesty and members of the Royal Family.” The letter reads.

The pontiff highlights from the prince his “devotion to her marriage“With the sovereign and for her family, her “public service record” and its commitment to “education and the progress of future generations”.

And he blessed all who have suffered this loss.

The Duke of Edinburgh died Friday at Windsor Castle at the age of 99 and the queen has proclaimed eight days of mourning.

In April 2014, Francisco She received the Queen of England, head of the Anglican Church, and her husband in the Vatican, fourteen years after their last trip to Rome, in 2000 to meet with the then Pope John Paul II.