Holy See

The Holy See (from the Latin Sancta Sedes, meaning "Holy Chair") refers to the Diocese of Rome—the episcopal see of the Pope. Because the Pope is the successor of St. Peter and the visible head of the Church, the Holy See represents the central governing authority of the universal Catholic Church (CCC 882).

Authority and Communion

The Holy See is not synonymous with Vatican City (which is a sovereign territorial state), but rather refers to the spiritual and pastoral authority of the Pope and the Roman Curia. It is the focal point of Catholic unity. Every local diocese and particular Church remains in full communion with the Holy See to ensure fidelity to the apostolic faith and the universal bond of charity (CCC 834).