Fact Check: Clarification Regarding Papal Audience Reports

Clarification on Papal Identity

Recent inquiries regarding an audience between a Pope Leo XIV and the Prime Minister of Slovenia, Janez Janša, have necessitated a factual review of the current leadership of the Holy See. It is important to clarify that there is no individual serving as Pope under the name Leo XIV. The current head of the Catholic Church and Sovereign of the Vatican City State is Pope Francis, who has held the office since his election on March 13, 2013.

Historical Context of the Papacy

The regnal name Leo has been used by 13 popes throughout history, with the most recent being Pope Leo XIII, who served from 1878 to 1903. There has never been a Pope Leo XIV in the history of the Catholic Church. Consequently, any reports or event descriptions referencing an audience with a pontiff by that name are factually incorrect.

Diplomatic Relations Between the Holy See and Slovenia

While the specific event described involving Pope Leo XIV did not occur, the Holy See and Slovenia maintain established diplomatic relations. Prime Ministers of Slovenia have historically held audiences with the reigning Pope at the Vatican Apostolic Palace to discuss matters of mutual interest, including:

• Bilateral cooperation
• Regional stability in the Balkans
• Humanitarian efforts
• Promotion of peace and social justice

These meetings are standard diplomatic engagements conducted between the Vatican and sovereign nations.

Conclusion

In summary, the information provided regarding a meeting with Pope Leo XIV is based on a non-existent papal figure. Official records confirm that the current pontiff is Pope Francis, and any diplomatic discussions involving Slovenian leadership would be conducted with the sitting Pope.