Pope Francis conducts historic pastoral visit in Slovakia

On the second day of his historic pastoral visit to Slovakia, Pope Francis engaged in a series of high-level meetings and community visits in Bratislava.

Following a reception at the Presidential Palace, the Pope met with then-President Zuzana Čaputová and approximately 500 guests from political, scientific, and cultural sectors. During the meeting, he highlighted Slovakia’s role as a bridge of peace in the heart of Europe.

The Pope also met with religious leaders, including bishops and clergy, at St. Martin's Cathedral, where he encouraged spiritual creativity and authenticity. His itinerary included a visit to the Betlehem center in Petržalka to meet with homeless individuals and people in need, as well as a meeting with the Jewish community at Rybné námestie, the site of a former synagogue.