Buckingham Palace has confirmed that King Charles and Queen Camilla will make a state visit to Vatican City in late October 2025. The timing coincides with the Catholic Church's Jubilee Year, whose theme, 'Pilgrims of Hope,' focuses on ecumenical collaboration. The visit is intended to celebrate and advance the ongoing dialogue and cooperation between the Church of England and the Catholic Church.
The journey carries profound historical and spiritual significance, given the King's role as the Supreme Governor of the Church of England—a title originating from Henry VIII's break with the Catholic Church. It reflects a shared commitment between King Charles and Pope Leo XIV to overcome historical denominational divisions. This commitment was previously demonstrated when the King and Queen attended a requiem mass for the Catholic Duchess of Kent at Westminster Cathedral.
The upcoming visit follows a year of significant events, including the death of Pope Francis, whom the royal couple had met privately just days before his passing. King Charles had also sent a private congratulatory message to Pope Leo XIV upon his election. This state visit will underscore the continued strengthening of diplomatic and spiritual ties between the United Kingdom and the Holy See.
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