ROME, Oct. 22, 2025 — In a landmark moment for Christian unity, King Charles III and Queen Camilla arrived in Rome on Wednesday to begin a two-day state visit to the Vatican, where they will meet Pope Leo XIV for the first time since his election in May. The visit, held during the Catholic Church’s 2025 Jubilee Year, is being hailed as a symbolic step toward reconciliation between the Church of England and the Roman Catholic Church, centuries after their formal split under King Henry VIII.
A First in Nearly 500 Years
The visit marks the first time a British monarch will pray publicly with a pope since the Reformation. On Thursday, King Charles—Supreme Governor of the Church of England—will join Pope Leo XIV in an ecumenical service in the Sistine Chapel, followed by a ceremony at St. Paul Outside the Walls, where the King will be honored as Royal Confrater of Saint Paul, recognizing historic ties between the British Crown and the Benedictine abbey.
Themes of Unity and Environmental Stewardship
According to Buckingham Palace and the Holy See, the visit will focus on two key themes: Christian unity and care for creation. Pope Leo XIV is expected to lead a prayer service for environmental protection, followed by meetings with organizations dedicated to sustainability and interfaith dialogue.
Ambassador Jan Braathu, OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, noted the significance of the visit:
“This is not only a religious milestone but a diplomatic gesture that reflects shared values and mutual respect.”
Context and Public Attention
The royal visit also comes amid domestic scrutiny over the monarchy’s handling of internal controversies, including renewed public pressure on King Charles to address issues surrounding Prince Andrew. Palace officials hope the Vatican visit will refocus attention on the King’s commitment to faith, diplomacy, and global cooperation.
A New Chapter in Anglican-Catholic Relations
Observers say the encounter between King Charles and Pope Leo XIV represents the closest period of relations between the two churches since the 16th century, and may pave the way for future collaboration on social justice, climate action, and humanitarian efforts.
Summary: King Charles III and Queen Camilla’s visit to the Vatican marks a historic moment in Anglican-Catholic relations, with the monarch set to pray alongside Pope Leo XIV for the first time in nearly 500 years. The visit emphasizes unity, environmental stewardship, and renewed diplomatic engagement.
HM King Charles III and Queen Camilla in Italy Picture by History & Lives of the British Royals
Sources: The Telegraph The Telegraph, Vatican News Vatican News, Yahoo News Yahoo News UK, Herald Malaysia Herald Malaysia.
