King Charles and Queen Camilla to Embark on Historic State Visit to the Holy See
King Charles and Queen Camilla are set to undertake a state visit to the Holy See in late October, where they will join Pope Leo XIV in celebrating the 2025 Jubilee Year. This visit was previously postponed in April due to the declining health of Pope Francis, but the royal couple was able to meet him privately before his passing. The upcoming visit aims to strengthen ties between the Church of England and the Catholic Church, reflecting the Jubilee year’s theme of “walking together as Pilgrims of Hope”.
Celebrating Ecumenical Work and Hope
During their visit, King Charles and Queen Camilla will participate in various engagements, potentially including a visit to the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel. As the Supreme Governor of the Church of England, King Charles has previously met with Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI, showcasing his commitment to ecumenical relations. This state visit underscores the warm and respectful relationship between the British monarchy and the Vatican, with full diplomatic relations established since 1982.
