Royal Ascot horse races in Ascot, England, on Thursday, June 19, 2025. (AP Photo)
King Charles III and Queen Camilla plan to visit the Vatican late this October. The trip was delayed six months after Pope Francis fell ill. The Pope passed away shortly after their first meeting in April.
Postponed Visit Rescheduled
The royal couple met Pope Francis privately during their April trip to Italy. Their visit coincided with their 20th wedding anniversary. Unfortunately, the Pope died two weeks later, which led to postponing the official state visit.
Now, Buckingham Palace says the visit will go ahead as planned. This time, Charles and Camilla will meet the new Pope, Leo XIV.
Celebrating the Jubilee Year
The visit holds special meaning. It takes place during the Catholic Church’s 2025 Jubilee Year. The Jubilee is a time for forgiveness and pilgrimage, celebrated every 25 years. Charles and Camilla will join the celebrations alongside the Pope.
A Step Toward Religious Unity
The visit also highlights efforts to bring the Catholic Church and the Church of England closer. The two churches have been separate since the 16th century, when King Henry VIII broke from Rome.
King Charles, as head of the Church of England, has made it a priority to build bridges between different faiths since becoming king two and a half years ago. This visit marks a meaningful moment in those efforts.
