The royal couple shift focus from recent controversies to a landmark
meeting with Pope Leo XIV marking a new chapter in interfaith relations.
King Charles and Queen Camilla have departed the UK for a long-anticipated
visit to the Holy See, leaving behind a week of royal turbulence. The trip,
confirmed earlier this month by Buckingham Palace, marks an important moment
for the monarchy and for relations between the Church of England and the
Catholic Church.
Their two-day visit, beginning Wednesday, October 22, will see the King and
Queen meet Pope Leo XIV for the first time since his appointment in May 2025.
The meeting will take place at the Apostolic Palace and includes a public
service in the Sistine Chapel, centred on the theme “Care for Creation.”
In a historic first, Charles and Pope Leo will pray together during the
service — the first time a British monarch and a pontiff have done so publicly
since the Reformation more than 500 years ago. The event aims to promote unity
and shared responsibility for environmental stewardship.
A statement from Buckingham Palace noted that the Papal Jubilee, held every 25
years, is a significant time of reflection and renewal for the Catholic
Church. The King and Queen will also take part in events celebrating the joint
ecumenical work of the Church of England and the Catholic Church under the
Jubilee theme “Pilgrims of Hope.”
The royal visit follows a turbulent week for the monarchy. King Charles
recently ordered his brother Andrew to relinquish his remaining titles and
honours amid ongoing allegations. Andrew said in a statement that the decision
was made after discussions with the King and other family members,
acknowledging that the accusations had become a distraction from royal duties.
The King is reportedly eager for the Vatican visit to shift the public’s
attention toward unity, faith, and environmental responsibility — and away
from the scandals that have shadowed his family.
