The Archbishop of Canterbury faced potential criticism from Donald Trump for commending Pope Leo’s stance against injustice. Dame Sarah Mullally, the first female leader of the Church of England, expressed admiration for Pope Leo during their meeting at the Apostolic Palace. She extended an invitation for the pontiff to visit the UK, emphasizing their shared commitment to justice and global peace.
Pope Leo recently denounced the actions of a few tyrants causing havoc in the world, particularly addressing the high costs of war during his visit to Cameroon. This elicited a strong response from President Trump, who accused the Pope of weakness in handling crime and foreign policy matters. Dame Sarah acknowledged the Pope’s courage in speaking out against injustices and promoting hope in troubled times.
Pope Leo expressed concerns over Trump’s threats regarding Iran and the potential dire consequences of conflict escalation. The Pope reiterated his dedication to denouncing warfare and advocating for peaceful resolutions. Dame Sarah highlighted the Pope’s message of hope and the ongoing efforts of many individuals towards achieving a better world.
During a historic joint prayer session between King Charles III and Pope Leo, Dame Sarah conveyed the Church of England’s openness to the Pope’s visit to the United Kingdom. Pope Leo, the first American-born head of the Catholic Church, recently completed a vibrant visit to Africa, fostering dialogue and unity between Anglicans and Catholics.
Despite Dame Sarah’s groundbreaking role as the first female Archbishop of Canterbury, the Catholic Church maintains restrictions on female ordination. The Pontiff referenced the ongoing ecumenical journey between Anglicans and Catholics, acknowledging both progress and challenges in achieving full communion.
Pope Leo emphasized the importance of overcoming differences among Christians to strengthen their collective witness of peace. He urged continued efforts towards unity and collaboration, underscoring the vital need for Christ’s peace in a fractured world.