This week’s Vaticano Updates – the most important news from the Holy Father and the Vatican.
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The Chosen Cast Meets the Pope
Jonathan Roumie — known for playing Jesus in the hit series The Chosen — and fellow cast members met Pope Leo XIV in St. Peter’s Square during the General Audience. Roumie called the experience “an immeasurable honor,” noting the meeting reinforced their mission to bring Jesus to viewers worldwide. Pope Leo shared a selfie of the encounter on Instagram, accompanied by a multilingual reflection on faith and grace.
We also sat down with Jonathan Roumie in an exclusive interview.
Seminarians, Priests and Bishops celebrate with the Pope
Over 6,000 seminarians, priests, and bishops gathered in Rome for the Jubilee of Seminarians, Priests and Bishops. Pope Leo XIV presided over a series of liturgies and catechesis, urging future and current pastors to be “witnesses of hope” in a divided world. He said: “God continues to call and is faithful to his promises — it is we who sometimes are no longer able to listen.” The Pope also warned against superficial spirituality, urging clergy to return to “the source of their vocation” in personal prayer and mission.
Pope Demands Action on Drug Trafficking
On the United Nations’ International Day Against Drug Abuse, Pope Leo issued a strong call to global leaders. “Fight traffickers, not victims,” — urging a shift from punitive models to justice-centered approaches that hold criminal networks accountable and protect vulnerable lives. He emphasized the Church’s support for prevention, rehabilitation, and mercy.
The Order of Malta Visits the Vatican
In a formal audience with the Grand Master of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, Pope Leo reaffirmed the Order’s charitable mission. Reminding its members that service must remain rooted in faith, not reduced to mere philanthropy. The meeting comes amid the Order’s internal reforms and growing global humanitarian role.
