King Charles III is set to make history on Thursday when he meets Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican, becoming the first head of the Church of England in five centuries to join a Roman Catholic pontiff in public prayer.
The historic encounter underscores a significant step toward strengthening relations between the Anglican Church and the Roman Catholic Church, which have been divided since England’s split from Rome in the 16th century under King Henry VIII.
During the meeting, the two leaders are expected to discuss global peace efforts, climate change, and interfaith cooperation, alongside a joint moment of prayer — a symbolic act marking reconciliation and unity after centuries of religious separation.