The joint prayer of King Charles and Pope Leo will mark a significant moment in the relations between the Roman Catholic Church and the Church of England, of which the King is the Supreme Governor. According to Sky News, they will participate in a special ecumenical service at the Sistine Chapel, dedicated to promoting unity and cooperation among various Christian churches.

The decision to pray together marks the first time since the Reformation, 500 years ago, that an English monarch and the Pope will share a moment of reflection.

Royal Brother of St. Paul’s Outside the Walls

In another historic gesture, King Charles will be declared a “Royal Brother” of St. Paul’s Outside the Walls. According to the Vatican, the Pope decided to bestow this honorary title “in recognition of the monarch’s spiritual brotherhood.” A special chair, decorated with the royal coat of arms, has been prepared for Charles to use during the ceremony. Afterward, the chair will remain in the basilica, reserved for future use by him and his successors.

St. Paul’s Outside the Walls holds special historical significance for the British crown, as it maintained close ties with English monarchs until the Reformation. Today, it serves as a space dedicated to reconciliation and ecumenism, promoting cooperation among Christian denominations.