Historic Vatican Summit: King Charles III and Pope Leo XIV Hold Landmark Ecumenical Service After Five Centuries

A truly historic milestone in the relationship between the Church of England and the Catholic Church was reached on October 23, 2025, within the hallowed confines of the Vatican. King Charles III, who holds the title of Supreme Governor of the Church of England, and Pope Leo XIV participated in a joint ecumenical worship service held inside the iconic Sistine Chapel. This momentous occasion marked the first time in over five centuries—a span stretching back to the Reformation—that a reigning British monarch and the Catholic Pontiff engaged in a public act of shared devotion.

The setting within the Sistine Chapel was profoundly symbolic, with the combined voices of the royal and Vatican ensembles echoing throughout the space. Choirs, including the renowned St. George's Chapel Choir and His Majesty's Chapel Royal Choir, performed together, offering a powerful, tangible representation of the commitment to reconciliation and bridging the long-standing historical schism. Although the meeting had initially been slated for April, the delay allowed for heightened contemplation regarding the gravity of the event. Pope Leo XIV, who made history as the first American pontiff upon his election in May 2025, joined King Charles III in affirming that addressing contemporary global crises necessitates unified action and shared resolve.

Beyond the profound spiritual exchange, the two leaders dedicated time to critical global matters. Following a private audience, they convened in the Regia Hall of the Apostolic Palace to discuss pressing issues. They specifically underscored their shared dedication to environmental stewardship, focusing on the core principles of ecological sustainability and the essential care for creation. This high-level discussion highlighted the convergence of their respective faiths on matters concerning the planet's future.

Subsequently, King Charles III received a significant honor acknowledging his dedication to promoting interfaith dialogue. He was formally bestowed with the title of “Royal Confrater” (Royal Brother) during a ceremony held at the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls. This specific act, personally approved by Pope Leo XIV, served as a powerful expression of ecumenical welcome and hospitality. Furthermore, the honor subtly referenced the deep historical connections that existed between the Saxon rulers of England and the Holy See in Rome centuries ago.

Inside the basilica, a dedicated chair was installed for the monarch and his future heirs, prominently featuring the Latin motto, “ut unum sint,” meaning “that they may be one.” This entire sequence of events unfolded during the ongoing celebration of the Catholic Church's Jubilee Year. The royal party had arrived in Rome the preceding day, October 22. Significantly, the joint prayer session was made available for extensive public coverage, a decision that underscored the transparency and openness central to this crucial ecumenical dialogue.