Pope Leo XIV urges Anglicans and Catholics to deepen unity and overcome divisions in historic meeting with new Archbishop of Canterbury
Pope Leo XIV has called on Catholics and Anglicans to continue strengthening their relationship and to remain committed to overcoming historical differences during his first official meeting with the newly appointed Archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullally. The audience, held at the Apostolic Palace in the Vatican during the Easter season, included a moment of shared prayer in the Urban VIII Chapel, symbolising a continued commitment to Christian unity and dialogue between the two traditions. The meeting was described as both historic and reflective, connecting present day efforts to a long journey of theological cooperation that has developed over decades.
In his address, Pope Leo XIV welcomed the Archbishop warmly and highlighted the significance of her visit, recalling the landmark encounter between Pope Saint Paul VI and Archbishop Michael Ramsey sixty years earlier. By referencing this moment, the Pope placed the meeting within a wider historical context of reconciliation and ecumenical progress. He also expressed appreciation for the work of the Anglican Centre in Rome and acknowledged its role in maintaining consistent dialogue between the Anglican Communion and the Holy See. The presence of Bishop Anthony Ball, representing the Archbishop of Canterbury at the Vatican, further underscored the institutional commitment to continued cooperation.
A central theme of the Pope’s message was the concept of peace rooted in the message of the risen Christ. He described the peace of Christ as unarmed, explaining that it is expressed through non violence and a rejection of aggression. He emphasised that Christians are called to reflect this form of peace in their own witness to the world, particularly at a time when global tensions and divisions often influence public discourse. According to the Pope, internal divisions among Christians weaken the credibility of their shared mission, making unity not only a theological aspiration but also a practical necessity for effective evangelisation.
Pope Leo XIV also reflected on the long standing theological dialogue between the Catholic Church and the Anglican Communion, acknowledging both the progress made and the challenges that remain. He noted that while significant steps have been taken toward mutual understanding on various historical points of disagreement, full communion in faith and sacramental life remains an ongoing goal. The Pope stressed that although current doctrinal and structural differences continue to present obstacles, they should not prevent both communities from actively working together in proclaiming the message of Christ. He encouraged continued dialogue even in areas where consensus appears difficult, emphasising perseverance in shared mission.
Concluding his remarks, the Pope warned against allowing unresolved issues to overshadow the broader calling shared by both traditions. He stated that it would be a serious concern if divisions were to prevent Christians from fulfilling their common responsibility to make Christ known in the world. He extended gratitude to Archbishop Mullally for her visit and reaffirmed his hope that the journey toward unity would continue with renewed commitment, prayer, and friendship. The meeting concluded with a shared sense of purpose, highlighting a vision of cooperation grounded in faith, dialogue, and a mutual desire to overcome barriers that have long separated the two Christian traditions.
