Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleAine FoxMonday 27 April 2026 22:28 BSTPope Leo downplays feud with TrumpDame Sarah Mullally, the Archbishop of Canterbury and the first woman to hold this top ministry role in the Church of England, met with Pope Leo at the Vatican, describing the encounter as "warm, encouraging and hopeful."The two religious leaders discussed their mutual desire for peace, reconciliation, and justice in the world, as well as the church's role in offering hope and providing pastoral care for their communities.Pope Leo called for Anglicans and Catholics to work towards overcoming their differences, no matter how intractable they might seem, during his address to the archbishop.Despite recent public criticism of the pontiff by US president Donald Trump, Dame Sarah declined to confirm whether the US leader or his comments were specifically discussed, stating they focused on the world's needs and the church's role.The historic meeting aimed to strengthen Anglican-Roman Catholic relations, deepen bonds of communion, affirm shared witness, and encourage ongoing collaboration between the two churches.In fullArchbishop of Canterbury backs Pope Leo calls for peace amid Trump criticismThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in