Apostolic Nuncio
An apostolic nuncio is a papal legate who ordinarily represents the Holy See both to the Catholic Church in a country and diplomatically to that country’s civil government.
Nature of the office
The nuncio fosters communion between the Apostolic See and local bishops, gathers accurate information, and participates in the confidential process by which candidates for episcopal appointment are studied. In diplomatic law the nuncio normally has ambassadorial rank.
Canonical place
A nuncio does not govern the dioceses of the country and is not the superior of its diocesan bishops. His ecclesiastical and diplomatic functions derive from the Roman Pontiff’s mandate and the law governing papal legates.[1]
References
- Back to citation Code of Canon Law, canons 362–367 — Universal or special law governing the office and its competence.