Archbishop of Canterbury Backs Pope Leo XIV Amid Trump Criticism

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Sarah Mullally, has publicly expressed her support for Pope Leo XIV's calls for peace, following a series of critical remarks made by U.S. President Donald Trump. In her statement, Mullally urged the 85 million Anglicans worldwide to join the Pope in advocating for peace, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Iran. She emphasized the devastating human cost of war, stating, “As innocent people are killed and displaced, families torn apart, and futures destroyed, the human cost of war is incalculable.”

Reuters

Mullally's remarks came after Trump labeled the Pope as “weak” and “terrible” in a social media post, suggesting that he should focus on being a “Great Pope, not a politician.” This exchange follows the Pope's criticism of leaders who justify war through religious rhetoric, a sentiment he reiterated during a recent visit to Cameroon, where he described the world as being “ravaged by a handful of tyrants.”

The Independent

Pope Leo XIV has emerged as a vocal critic of the war in Iran, calling for an end to violence and urging leaders to prioritize peace. His comments, made during a four-nation tour in Africa, included a condemnation of those who manipulate religion for military and political gain. In response to Trump's attacks, the Pope stated, “I have no fear of the Trump Administration or speaking out loudly the message of the Gospel.”

The Guardian

Mullally, who is scheduled to meet with the Pope in Rome later this month, has called on political leaders to pursue peaceful resolutions to conflicts. She highlighted the importance of collective action among Christians and people of goodwill to work towards peace and justice.

I stand with the Pope in call for peace, says Archbishop of Canterbury

Trump's remarks have drawn criticism not only from Mullally but also from various political figures, including Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who found his comments towards the Pope unacceptable. U.S. Vice President JD Vance, a Catholic convert, has urged the Vatican to focus on moral issues rather than engaging in political disputes.

The Guardian

In her statement, Mullally urged Anglicans to raise their voices for peace and justice, reinforcing the idea that prayer should confront injustice rather than escape from it. She stated, “It is the calling of every Christian – and of all people of faith and goodwill – to work and pray for peace.”

I stand with the Pope in call for peace, says Archbishop of Canterbury

Pope Leo XIV, in his ongoing critique of war, has maintained that the world must not be governed by tyrants but rather by a collective of supportive individuals. He has consistently called for an end to violence and the need for leaders to act with moral integrity.

The Guardian

• “I stand with my brother in Christ, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, in his courageous call for a kingdom of peace.” — Sarah Mullally, Archbishop of Canterbury

I stand with the Pope in call for peace, says Archbishop of Canterbury

• “being ravaged by a handful of tyrants” — Pope Leo XIV

Reuters

• “Woe to those who manipulate religion and the very name of God for their own military, economic, and political gain, dragging that which is sacred into darkness and filth.” — Pope Leo XIV

I stand with the Pope in call for peace, says Archbishop of Canterbury

• “I’m not a fan of Pope Leo,” — Donald Trump

The Guardian

Mullally's upcoming visit to the Vatican is expected to further solidify the Anglican Communion's stance on peace and justice, as she prepares to engage in discussions with Pope Leo XIV. The ongoing dialogue between religious leaders and political figures will likely continue to shape the discourse surrounding the conflict in Iran and broader issues of war and peace.

Archbishop of Canterbury stands in solidarity with Pope Leo, after Trump attacks