Thursday Video: A Hallowed Horse

Pope Leo XIV received an October surprise of the four-legged variety.

In a symbolic and equestrian-rich gesture, on October 15, 2025, Pope Leo XIV received an Arabian stallion named Proton from Polish breeder Andrzej Michalski, founder of the Michalski Stud Farm in Kołobrzeg-Budzistowo, Poland.

Proton’s pedigree is a nod to international equestrian heritage: born in the distinguished Janów Podlaski (Poland’s historic Arabian horse centre), his sire’s lines go back to the U.S. and his dam was bought from Jordanian royalty. Michalski said he chose a white stallion (but it’s really grey, right? we know this horse is grey…) because the color echoes the Pope’s white cassock — and because the Holy Father, during his missionary work in Peru, had been photographed on horseback, inspiring the gift.

Beyond its ceremonial value, the gift carries deeper purpose: Michalski’s stud farm is not only about breeding elite Arabians, it also operates a hippotherapy centre for children with motor or cognitive disabilities — showing that for Michalski, horses are tools for healing and hope.

The Vatican notes that Proton will take residence at the Vatican’s equestrian facilities in Castel Gandolfo.