Pope Leo XIV urges Christian unity in first meeting with Anglican leader

Pope Leo XIV has called for deeper unity among Christians, urging Catholics and Anglicans to strengthen their shared mission to proclaim the Gospel to the world during his first official meeting with the new Archbishop of Canterbury.

The Pope made the appeal during an audience at the Vatican with Sarah Mullally, where the two also prayed together in the Urban VIII Chapel of the Apostolic Palace, marking a significant moment in Catholic–Anglican relations.

In his address, Pope Leo highlighted the importance of unity not only as a theological goal but as a pastoral necessity for the credibility of Christian witness in the world. He pointed to the shared responsibility of both Churches to carry forward the message of Christ together, especially in a time of global division.

Reflecting on the Easter season, the Pope described the peace of the risen Christ as a model for Christian life and mission. He said this peace is meant to be lived and shared in a way that rejects violence and division, inviting believers instead to become instruments of reconciliation.

The meeting also recalled decades of dialogue between Catholics and Anglicans aimed at deepening understanding and moving toward fuller communion. While acknowledging the complexity of that journey, Pope Leo stressed that it must not slow the commitment to joint witness.

He encouraged both Churches to remain focused on their common vocation, even amid ongoing theological differences, and to continue seeking every opportunity to proclaim Christ together.

The encounter carried historical resonance, coming 60 years after the landmark meeting between Pope Paul VI and Michael Ramsey, which helped set the tone for modern ecumenical dialogue.