Pope Francis held a private meeting with King Charles III and Queen Camilla at the Vatican on April 9th. The visit, which coincided with the couple's 20th wedding anniversary, was part of the King's state visit to Italy. Discussions likely covered topics of mutual interest between the Vatican and the United Kingdom. The meeting was initially postponed due to the Pope's health concerns, but went ahead after his recovery from pneumonia. Pope Francis offered his best wishes to the royal couple.
21 days ago
Pope Francis met with King Charles III and Queen Camilla at the Vatican on April 9, 2025 1. The meeting occurred on the royal couple's 20th wedding anniversary and the fourth anniversary of Prince Philip's death, adding significance to the visit 1 5. King Charles, as Prince of Wales, had met Pope Francis previously, including during the canonization of St. John Henry Newman in 2019 2 4 5. Queen Elizabeth II met with five Popes during her reign 1.
Both Pope Francis and King Charles have faced health challenges recently 1. The Pope was recovering from a lung infection and a month-long hospital stay 1 2. King Charles was undergoing cancer treatment and experiencing side effects 2 4 5. During the meeting, the Pope wished the King a speedy recovery, and the King and Queen reciprocated with similar wishes for the Pope 1 2 4 5.
The private audience took place at Pope Francis's Casa Santa Marta residence 1 5. The meeting lasted approximately 20 minutes and included a private exchange of gifts 2. Buckingham Palace stated that the King and Queen were pleased the Pope was well enough to host them 2.
The royal couple's official state visit to the Vatican was initially planned for April but was postponed due to the Pope's health 1 2 4. The original itinerary included a service in the Sistine Chapel focused on "care for creation" 4. Despite the altered plans, the King addressed a joint session of the Italian Houses of Parliament, a historic first for a British monarch 5 6.
The Catholic Church views ecumenical dialogue with Anglicans as an important endeavor, rooted in the call for Christian unity expressed by the Second Vatican Council . This dialogue aims to overcome divisions, promote mutual understanding, and work towards the full visible communion of all Christians .
In summary, the Catholic Church approaches ecumenical dialogue with Anglicans with a commitment to seeking full, visible unity while respecting the diverse traditions and addressing the doctrinal differences that still exist. The Church views this dialogue as a path of faith, love, prayer, and cooperation, guided by the Holy Spirit.