On Wednesday, Pope Francis welcomed King Charles III and Queen Camilla for a private audience at the Vatican. Given the Pope’s recent recuperation from major health challenges, this first meeting represents a major landmark. This meeting happened in about 20 minutes total. It had been set for that very morning, after being delayed by a week from the original date with the Pope’s illness.
The audience is taking place almost a month after Pope Francis was admitted to hospital after suffering from pneumonia in both lungs and bronchitis. His sudden shortness of breath resulted in an emergency visit that turned into a week long hospital admission. Upon his release, he was so enthusiastic that he immediately sought to reestablish contact with royal family members. He even issued an invitation – to discuss in private.
Over the course of the meeting, the Pope exchanged gifts with both the King and Queen. He also took the opportunity to congratulate them on their 40th anniversary. This gesture underscored the deep relationship between the Holy See and British monarchy. It was their first meeting in person since 2019, further strengthening a bond formed during their earlier virtual meetings.
A spokesman from Buckingham Palace stated, “Their Majesties were delighted the Pope was well enough to host them for a private meeting and to have had the opportunity to share their best wishes in person.” The palace had previously sent their best wishes for the Pope’s recovery, emphasizing the royal family’s concern for his health.
This private audience conveys a deep personal connection. Further, it evinces a desire to strengthen and preserve diplomatic ties between the Vatican and the UK. Concrete actions build goodwill. Their joint meeting was a concrete expression of the importance both parties do indeed place on their relationship — especially during a global pandemic.
“Their Majesties send The Pope their best wishes for his convalescence and look forward to visiting him in The Holy See, once he has recovered.” – The palace
