Dame Sarah Mullally, the Archbishop of Canterbury, has described her meeting with Pope Leo at the Vatican as a significant moment, noting it was warm, encouraging, and hopeful. She is the first woman to hold the top ministry role in the Church of England, while the Catholic Church does not allow women to become priests.
Historic Meeting at the Vatican
The meeting took place on Monday at the Vatican, where the two religious leaders prayed together. Dame Sarah said it was a privilege and humbling, and that it carried great warmth and encouragement. She emphasized that the significance of the meeting was not diminished by her gender, stating: “I think we both recognise that, regardless of me being a woman, this is a significant moment in that both our churches have been on a journey together to deepen our friendship, to pray together and to seek that unity to which we are called.”
Discussion Topics
When asked about discussions on women in ministry, Dame Sarah said the issue is for the Roman Catholic Church and that they met as pastors, focusing on world issues such as conflict and the church's role in offering hope. Pope Leo had called for Anglicans and Catholics to overcome differences, though he did not specify what those differences were.
Trump and Political Matters
Dame Sarah declined to comment on whether US President Donald Trump, who had publicly criticized the Pope, was discussed. She said they talked about the world and the need for the church to bring reconciliation and hope. On Trump's controversial image, she said her focus is on pastoral leadership and praying for peace. She stated: “First and foremost, I am a pastor and a spiritual leader. But of course, in sometimes speaking as a spiritual leader and a pastor and a Christian, there are things that we will say that may be perceived as political – but I am not a politician.”
Pastoral Care and Safeguarding
The archbishop noted that pastoral care for communities was discussed with the Pope. When asked about safeguarding failings in both churches, she said they talked about their responsibility in ensuring communities are cared for.
Gifts and Future Visit
Among gifts offered to the Pope was a jar of honey from beehives in Lambeth Palace Garden, with the Pope commenting “still a nurse” in reference to her previous career as chief nurse in England. Dame Sarah also invited the Pope to visit the United Kingdom, saying he would receive a warm welcome.
Purpose of the Visit
The four-day visit to Rome aims to strengthen Anglican–Roman Catholic relations and deepen bonds of communion. She is accompanied by Archbishop of Westminster Richard Moth, leader of Catholics in England and Wales.
