Jonathan Roumie, the actor who portrays Jesus in the popular series 'The Chosen,' recently met with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican. The meeting included other actors from the series, such as Elizabeth Tabish, George Xanthis, and Vanessa Benavente. The event was part of the cast's visit to promote the fifth season of 'The Chosen.' Roumie described the meeting as a great honor, highlighting the intersection of faith and pop culture.
8 days ago
Jonathan Roumie, best known for his portrayal of Jesus in the popular series "The Chosen," met with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican 1 2 3. The meeting took place after the Pope's general audience in St. Peter's Square 2 3. Other cast members, including Elizabeth Tabish (Mary Magdalene), George Xanthis (St. John), and Vanessa Benavente (Virgin Mary), were also present 2 3. Roumie and the cast presented Pope Leo XIV with a gift on behalf of the entire crew of "The Chosen" 2 3.
The meeting quickly gained attention on social media, particularly after Pope Leo XIV shared a selfie with Roumie on his official Instagram account 1. The Pope's caption included a spiritual reflection on growing closer to Jesus through acts of faith 1. The image of the Pope and the actor portraying Jesus sparked excitement and commentary online, with some calling it their "favorite crossover" of faith and pop culture 1.
Roumie, a devout Catholic, described meeting the Pope as "an immeasurable honor" 1 2 3. He stated that playing Jesus has strengthened his faith and that he views the role as an act of divine grace 2 3. Roumie explained that he tries to convey the simplicity and values of Jesus in his portrayal, drawing on his Catholic upbringing 2 3. He also acknowledged the "enormous weight of responsibility" he feels when filming certain scenes, relying on his faith for strength and concentration 2 3.
The meeting coincided with the cast's visit to the Vatican for an exclusive premiere of "The Chosen" Season 5 1 2 3. Season 5 is scheduled to be available for streaming in Italy in July 2 3. The cast's visit to Rome followed three weeks of filming in southern Italy, where they shot the crucifixion scenes for Season 6, set to premiere next year 2 3.
How does the Church view artistic representations of Christ?
The Catholic Church supports the use of artistic representations of Christ, rooted in the mystery of the Incarnation . The Church differentiates between adoration, which is reserved for God alone, and veneration, which is given to images of Christ and the saints .
In summary, the Church views artistic representations of Christ as valuable tools for instruction, inspiration, and veneration, with the understanding that such images direct the faithful towards the divine persons they represent, and are not objects of worship in themselves .