In a significant step towards the renewal of Vatican Diplomacy, Pope Francis designated Cardinal Oswald Gracias, Archbishop of Mumbai, one of the Pontiff’s principal advisers, Coordinator of a study group that will assess the role of Papal Representatives throughout the world. This move, promoted by the Pope’s reformist vision, seek that the Apostolic Nunciatures and other Holy See bodies operate in a more missionary and synodal way, in tune with the changes gestating in the Catholic Church.
The Nunciatures, which act as Embassies of the Vatican in the different countries, play a crucial role in the communication between the Pope and the local Churches, as well as in the representation of the Holy See to the Governments. Under the leadership of Cardinal Gracias, the study will focus on improving the functioning of these key institutions, guaranteeing that their work is not limited to a merely diplomatic role, but that it be more aligned with the pastoral and evangelizing mission of the Church.
Cardinal Gracias will not be alone in his task. Important figures such as Cardinal Mario Grech, Secretary General for the Synod of Bishops , and Monsignor Luciano Russo, Secretary of the Papal Representatives, will be at his side and contribute to the study that, according to Pope Francis’ expectations must be ready before June 2025.
This effort arises as part of a series of identified points by the Pope during the first session of the Synodal Assembly in October 2023. One of those issues is the need to redefine the relationship between the Papal Representations and the local Churches, ensuring that there is greater closeness and synergy between them. The final aim is that the Nunciatures be true bridges that foster understanding and cooperation on pastoral and ecclesial subject.
Although this topic will not be addressed directly in the next Synod session, planned for October 2024, it will offer participants a preliminary report, with the objective of detailing work plans and receiving feedback on the study’s progress.
On several occasions, Pope Francis has highlighted the importance of making the Church a more synodal institution, namely, that she listen and respond to the needs of the local communities. In this context, not only must the Nunciatures function as diplomatic delegations but also as vehicles that promote a spirit of collaboration and mission. This structural renewal is in consonance with the Pope’s pastoral focus, who has called the Church to come out of her traditional structures and be more active in evangelization and social commitment.