Pope Leo XIV received Brian Burch, a new US ambassador to the Holy See, for the formal presentation of his credentials. The diplomat took the occasion to give to the Pontiff a birthday cake, since this Sunday September 14 will turn 70.
According to a statement from the United States Embassy, at the meeting they discussed the ongoing wars in Ukraine and Gaza, as well as “the protection of religious freedom, the Vatican’s relationship with China and the Revolution of Artificial Intelligence.”
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Regarding the murder this week of conservative Christian activist Charlie Kirk, “Pope León stressed that our political differences can never be resolved with violence and told the Burch ambassador that he was praying for Mr. Kirk’s widow and his children,” said the embassy.
Butch, 50, was confirmed by the American Senate on August 2 in a vote of 49 to 44. He was nominated by President Donald Trump in December 2024 and happens to former ambassador Joe Donnelly, who served during the Biden administration.
In a statement after confirmation, Burch said he was “deeply grateful” with the president and the Senate for the opportunity to serve, and requested the prayers of Catholics from all over the United States “so that he can serve with honor and fidelity in the noble adventure that awaits me.”
Originally from Phoenix, Arizona, Burch is married and is the father of nine children. He graduated from the University of Dallas in 1997 and began his career in the business world before joining the leadership of non -profit Catholic organizations.
From 2005 to his confirmation this year, he was president of CatholicVote Civic Action and of CatholicVote Education Fundorganizations dedicated to promoting Catholic participation in public life.
During his time in CatholicVoteBurch became a nationally recognized figure in Catholic political defense, encouraging US Catholics to participate in the democratic process and defend religious freedom and holiness of life.
The new president of CatholicVoteKelsey Reinhardt, declared in August that the group celebrates with joy its confirmation, praising its 17 years of leadership.
On the occasion of his confirmation, Burch highlighted a point of personal importance for him in his new position. “For a remarkable coincidence, or what I prefer to attribute to Providence, Pope Leo XIV is from Chicago, which is also my hometown,” he said.
After meeting with the Pope on Saturday, the embassy reported that “Ambassador Burch described the meeting as extraordinarily friendly, such as talking to a friend in Chicago.”
Translated and adapted by the ACI Press team. Originally published in CNA
Catholic News Agency (CNA) has a team of journalists dedicated to informing about the Catholic Church worldwide. It has offices in Denver, Washington and Rome. It is an Ewtn News service.