Jonathan Roumie Weighs In on Trump–Pope Rift: ‘Let Us Pray for Them Both’

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The actor best known for his portrayal of Jesus in The Chosen is urging people of faith to pray for President Trump and Pope Leo XIV in the wake of their public dispute, saying division in modern times “comes far too easily” and that both men carry “burdens few can truly comprehend.”

Actor Jonathan Roumie, who is Catholic, made the comments on his Instagram account Monday night, one day after Trump criticized the Pope as “weak” while saying Leo should concentrate on “being a Great Pope, not a Politician” – and the same day that the Pope responded by telling reporters: “I’m not afraid of the Trump administration, or of speaking out loudly about the message of the Gospel, which is what the Church works for.”

Leo XIV has publicly disagreed with the Trump administration on two major issues: immigration policy and war. 

“I never imagined I'd see a day when the leader of our nation and the Holy Father might find themselves at odds,” Roumie wrote in a post that garnered more than 200,000 likes. “It speaks to the weight – and uncertainty – of the times we’re living in. Yet, one thing remains firm:
Christ is on the throne. He always has been. Always will be. And His victory is Eternal. As Catholics – as Christians – we are called to follow Christ’s example in all things…even when that path is narrow, costly, and difficult to walk.

“Having lost extended family members – innocent civilians caught in the crossfire of war and its humanitarian toll – I carry a deep conviction for peace and restraint whenever possible, because the cost is simply too great otherwise,” he added.

“Of course, nations have the right – and the responsibility – to defend their people. Threats cannot be ignored. But when that defense results in the loss of innocent life – especially women and children – my heart compels me to stand with Pope Leo XIV in his call for peace … even as I fall to my knees in prayer for an end to violence. In Matthew's Gospel, Jesus tells us: ‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.’
Those words feel especially urgent now.”

Roumie urged Christians around the world to pray for both men, saying they bear responsibilities that most never face.

“We’re living in a time when division comes far too easily – when the devil delights in turning us against one another, using our vulnerabilities, weaknesses, and frankly anything and everything he can against us, seeking ultimately to destroy humanity in the process,” Roumie wrote.

“As that darkness presses in, I pray – for Pope Leo XIV, that he may continue to lead as a shepherd of light and peace for the Church Christ established.
And I pray for our President, and for all leaders entrusted with decisions that carry the weight of life and death – that they may be guided by the Holy Spirit in wisdom, courage, and prudence.

“These are burdens few can truly comprehend,” Roumie added. “To bear them well requires extraordinary discernment – and grace; that gift given to us as a result of the supreme sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ. Tonight, let us pray for them both; may the Sacred Heart of Jesus guide each and every decision they make.
For wisdom. For peace…and most especially, for the protection of the innocent.

“God be with them.
And God help us all.”

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Michael Foust has covered the intersection of faith and news for 20 years. His stories have appeared in Baptist Press, Christianity Today, The Christian Post, the Leaf-Chronicle, the Toronto Star and the Knoxville News-Sentinel. 

Listen to Michael's Podcast! He is the host of Crosswalk Talk, a podcast where he talks with Christian movie stars, musicians, directors, and more. Hear how famous Christian figures keep their faith a priority in Hollywood and discover the best Christian movies, books, television, and other entertainment. You can find Crosswalk Talk on LifeAudio.com, or subscribe on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an interview that will be sure to encourage your faith.