The Pontiff expresses sorrow over the demise of the Duchess of Kent.
Pope Leo XIV to Officiate at Duchess of Kent's Funeral Via Representative
The Duchess of Kent, Katharine, passed away on the night of September 4 at Kensington Palace, at the age of 92. Her funeral, scheduled for September 16, will take place at Westminster Cathedral.
Despite not being physically present, Pope Leo XIV will play a significant role in the proceedings. Monsignor Paul Richard Gallagher, the Archbishop and the Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations of the Holy See, will read a message from the Pope during a Mass in memory of the Duchess of Kent.
Monsignor Gallagher, a key Vatican diplomat and envoy, has participated in numerous papal events and diplomatic audiences. He will read the message from Pope Leo XIV in his diplomatic and ecclesiastical capacity.
The message from the Pope will express condolences to the Duke of Kent, his children, and grandchildren. It will also commend the Duchess of Kent's 'noble soul' to the mercy of God. Pope Leo XIV will give thanks for the Duchess' commitment to sponsoring beneficial works and caring for the most vulnerable.
The Duchess of Kent was born into an aristocratic Yorkshire family. She became a member of the royal family in 1961 when she married the Duke of Kent, who is the grandson of King George V.
Pope Francis has also sent a telegram to King Charles III expressing condolences following the passing of the Duchess of Kent. The Pope will impart his apostolic blessing during the Duchess' funeral as a guarantee of comfort and peace in the Risen Lord.
The reading will take place at the Venerable English College in Rome at 5:00 PM. The Duchess of Kent's funeral in London will also be attended by Monsignor Gallagher, who will read the message sent by Pope Leo XIV on the occasion of the funeral.
The Pope will express his closeness to the royal family during the Duchess' funeral. The Duchess of Kent was of the Catholic faith, and her funeral will be a significant event for the Catholic community in the UK.
Read also:
- Today's most impactful photographic moments
- Support for Eric Adams in The Post's Letters to the Editor on August 13, 2025
- Roosting Shark and Rambunctious Red Squirrels: Unconventional House Rental in Yorkshire Involving Aquatic Marvel, Squirrely Mayhem, and Mystical Planning Regulations
- Legal Dispute Dismissed with Humor: Supreme Court Laughs off Another Civil Matter Mislabeled as Criminal Prosecution
