Pope thanks Italian President for his support of the Church
Pope Leo XIV sent a congratulatory telegram to Italian President Sergio Mattarella on his 85th birthday, expressing gratitude for his support of the Church. The message also touched upon global concerns, including the decline in birth rates and the impact of ongoing international conflicts.
Why it matters
The exchange underscores the ongoing diplomatic and social relationship between the Vatican and the Italian state.
Vatican News Pope Leo XIV has expressed his gratitude for the “constant attention” devoted to the “ecclesial and social life” of Italy and entrusted President Sergio Mattarella to the protection of the country's patron saints, Francis of Assisi and Catherine of Siena. The Pope did so in a telegram sent on Thursday, 23 July, to the President of the Italian Republic on the occasion of his 85th birthday.
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