Archbishop of Canterbury meets Pope Leo XIV following pontiff’s lung cancer diagnosis

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullally, recently met with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican. The meeting took place in April and was described by the archbishop as a “privilege.” During their conversation, they discussed shared hopes for global peace, reconciliation, and justice. Dame Sarah emphasized that the dialogue was significant, regardless of her gender, highlighting the common ground between the Anglican and Catholic Churches.

Dame Sarah presented Pope Leo with a jar of honey from Lambeth Palace Garden, calling it a “simple and hospitable token, rooted in place and daily life.” The gesture reflected the archbishop’s commitment to hospitality and community, values central to both Anglican and Catholic traditions. Pope Leo, in turn, referenced Dame Sarah’s previous career as England’s chief nurse, noting her background with the words “still a nurse.”

The Vatican confirmed on October 13 that Pope Leo XIV had been diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma following surgery to remove the lower lobe of his right lung. The operation, which lasted approximately 90 minutes, was described as successful, with no complications reported. Dr Luigi Carbone and Professor Stefano Margaritora, who confirmed the diagnosis, stated that the Pope woke up normally after the procedure and returned to his room on the tenth floor after a brief period of observation.

Archbishop Richard Moth, leader of the Catholics in England and Wales, expressed support for the Pope, sending a message on behalf of the Catholic Church in England and Wales. He assured the pontiff of their prayers, underscoring the unity and solidarity between the Anglican and Catholic communities.

Dame Sarah Mullally is the first woman to hold the position of Archbishop of Canterbury, marking a historic moment for the Church of England. Her leadership has been characterized by a focus on global issues, including peace and reconciliation, and her recent meeting with the Pope reflects the ongoing dialogue between the Anglican and Catholic Churches.

The meeting between the Archbishop of Canterbury and Pope Leo XIV exemplifies the shared commitment to peace and justice, themes that resonate with Micah 6:8, which calls for walking humbly with God and doing justice. Such moments of interfaith dialogue offer hope for unity and cooperation in addressing the challenges of the world.

Source: Read the original report