Next week, King Charles will make history as the first British monarch in 500 years to pray publicly with the Pope during a state visit to Vatican City. The King, along with the Queen, will attend an ecumenical service with Pope Leo XIV in the Sistine Chapel, celebrating Christian unity and cooperation. During the service, the King will also be made a “Royal Confrater” of the Abbey of St Paul’s Outside the Walls and given a special seat decorated with his coat of arms. The visit also reflects a shared commitment to environmental protection, with a meeting on sustainability planned, and strengthens the UK’s relationship with the Holy See on the global stage.
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In a symbolic gesture, Pope Leo XIV formally assumed the role of Bishop of Rome, a title held alongside others. Meeting with Rome’s mayor, the Pope declared himself a Roman, emphasizing his pastoral responsibility to the city’s people. While this declaration is primarily symbolic, it underscores his connection to Rome despite his American origins and past in Peru. The day-to-day duties of the Bishopric, however, will be delegated to a vicar.
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White smoke billows from the Sistine Chapel, signaling the election of a new pope. The speed of the decision genuinely surprised many, a stark contrast to previous, more drawn-out conclaves. The anticipation was palpable, even as the waiting period saw more interest in the birds perched atop the Chapel than the chimney itself – seagulls and a briefly-featured pigeon becoming unexpected stars of the pre-election show.
The announcement sparked immediate and varied reactions globally. In St. Peter’s Square, joyous scenes unfolded as Sister Mona Lisa, a Brazilian nun, wept with happiness, waving her nation’s flag. The sheer emotional impact of this moment for so many believers is truly moving, a testament to the profound spiritual weight of the papal election.… Continue reading
Former President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden will travel to Vatican City to attend Pope Francis’s funeral on Saturday. This will be the first time the Bidens have been in the same place as President Trump and his family since the 2020 Presidential Inauguration. The Bidens’ attendance follows previous meetings between President Biden and Pope Francis in 2021 and 2024. The funeral, expected to draw over 200,000 people, will take place in St. Peter’s Square.
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On Easter Sunday, Pope Francis, recovering from a severe bout of pneumonia, surprised onlookers by appearing in St. Peter’s Square. He delivered the Urbi et Orbi blessing and toured the piazza in his popemobile, interacting with the crowd of over 35,000. Although Cardinal Comastri presided over the Easter Mass, Francis’ appearance, lasting approximately 50 minutes, showcased his improved health. Despite still requiring recovery, his public display offered a powerful symbol of hope and resilience.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood