What does a Papal Nuncio do?

by Admin · Published March 18, 2025 · Updated March 17, 2025

Papal Nuncio Archbishop Henryk Mieczysław Jagodzinski with Pope Francis

An apostolic nuncio acts as the official liaison between the Vatican and the local Church hierarchy, government officials, and other religious leaders in the regions to which they are assigned. When the Holy See and the country or countries to which the nuncio is posted have full diplomatic relations, he is also an ambassador for the Vatican City state. When no full diplomatic relations exist, the pope’s representative is known as “apostolic delegate”.

As the personal representatives of the pope to the local Church and government authorities, the nuncio conveys the pope’s and the Vatican’s messages, policies and decisions to the local Church hierarchy and government.

Nuncios are responsible for monitoring the activities of the local Church and reporting back to the Vatican on important developments, challenges and opportunities in the region. They play a key role in the appointment of bishops as they gather information, conduct interviews, and make recommendations to the pope for appointments.

Nuncios engage in diplomatic efforts to promote dialogue, understanding, and cooperation between the Catholic Church and the local government, as well as with other faith communities.

Published in the October 2024 issue of The Southern Cross magazine