Anthony Albanese invites new Pope Leo XIV to Australian gathering

Headshot of Katina Curtis
Katina Curtis
The Nightly
Anthony Albanese will invite the pope to visit Australia.
Anthony Albanese will invite the pope to visit Australia. Credit: Asanka Ratnayake/Getty Images

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has invited the new pope, Leo XIV, to visit Australia and lauded his election as a momentous day for Catholics around the world.

“As the first North American pope, Pope Leo XIV’s leadership comes at an important time for the Catholic Church and for the world,” the Prime Minister said.

“This is a moment which will bring joy and hope to Catholics everywhere.

Sign up to The Nightly's newsletters.

Get the first look at the digital newspaper, curated daily stories and breaking headlines delivered to your inbox.

Email Us
By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.

“May the papacy of Pope Leo advance the cause of peace and social justice for all humanity.”

Pope Leo XIV.
Pope Leo XIV. Credit: Unknown/Facebook

Australia will host the International Eucharistic Congress in 2028 and Mr Albanese said he would formally invite the pontiff to visit for that gathering.

“I’ve had discussions with Archbishop Anthony Fisher of Sydney, who, of course, I know very well, about the importance of Australia hosting that very significant event in just a few years time,” he said.

“And I know that the church here in Australia is very excited to have this privilege and honour.”

Mr Albanese also thanked Australia’s ambassador to the Vatican, former Nationals MP Keith Pitt, who is so new to the role he hasn’t yet formally presented his credentials.

Comments

Latest Edition

The Nightly cover for 09-05-2025

Latest Edition

Edition Edition 9 May 20259 May 2025

LABOR PRESENTS WAR: Inside the machinations of the ALP’s factional system.