King Charles and Queen Camilla arrived in Rome on Wednesday evening for their huge Vatican state visit, where they met Pope Leo for the first time.
On Wednesday evening (October 22), King Charles touched down at Ciampino 31st Wing Airport.
British Ambassador to the Holy See, Christopher Trott, formerly welcomed Charles and Camilla.
Their visit marks the start of a new chapter in relations between the UK and the Vatican. Ahead of meeting Pope Leo, King Charles’ spokesperson released a statement.
King Charles’ statement ahead of Pope Leo meeting
In a statement issued through his spokesperson, it was said that King Charles was “greatly looking forward” to celebrating the shared purpose between Church of England and the Catholic Church.
The statement read: “His Majesty is greatly looking forward to meeting Pope Leo and celebrating together the historical significance of this visit, representing, as it does, such a landmark in relationships between the Church of England and the Catholic Church. And between the UK and the Holy See.
“At times of such global challenge, it has seldom been more important for Christian communities around the world to unite in faith and in fellowship with our partners.”
It continued: “This provides a bulwark against those promoting conflict, division and tyranny. And supports our work together in Harmony to protect Nature, God’s creation.
“These are of course the issues that directly impact lives and livelihoods in Britain and around the globe. Not just today, but for generations to come.
“As Supreme Governor of the Church of England, the King is proud that this week’s state visit stands as a symbol and a celebration of how far we have come on that unifying journey.”
What will happen during King Charles and Queen Camila’s state visit?
The state visit will “mark a significant moment in relations between the Catholic Church and Church of England,” the palace said.
Charles and Camilla will join the Pope to celebrate the 2025 Jubilee Year. Traditionally marked every 25 years, the Jubilee is a special time for the Catholic Church.
The visit will also focus on King Charles and the Pope’s “commitment to the protection of Nature and concern for the environment”.
However, one of the highlights is expected to be the ecumenical service in the Sistine Chapel.
King Charles and Pope Leo will become the first British monarch and pontiff to pray side by side in more than 500 years.
The palace said the Children of the Choir of His Majesty’s Chapel Royal and the Choir of St. George’s Chapel, Windsor, will sing during the service, accompanied by the Sistine Chapel Choir.
Also on the visit Charles and Camilla will visit the Basilica of St Paul’s Outside the Walls. Here, King Charles will receive the title of Royal Confrater of Saint Paul.
The palace said this “gift of ‘confraternity’ is a recognition of spiritual fellowship”.
Meanwhile, their trip comes as it was announced King Charles will host the President of Germany in December.
Read more: Palace issues King Charles statement amid ‘great concern’ over Prince Andrew allegations
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