For years, the Holy See has been linked to the world of the Vatican Church in Rome. However, it is not really the church. According to history, the See has been around long before the actual Vatican City church came into existence. Many do not understand the separation between the Holy See and the actual Vatican City state. However, history has shown the difference for years and one only has to do a little research in order to understand it for themselves.

The Holy See is the actual governing body of the Holy Roman Catholic Church and can actually trace its beginnings to the time of St. Peter. The See refers to the diocese of Rome. It is led by the Bishop of Rome, also known as the Pope. When the Pope sends out holy emissaries he sends them from the See and not from the Vatican City state. One interesting thing about the See is that it has been an official observer of the United Nations since 1964 but chooses not to vote in matters.

Vatican City on the other hand is the actual place where the See is located. This is where the tomb of St. Peter is located and where millions flock everyday to catch a glimpse of heaven’s messenger on earth, also known as the Pope. The current Vatican City state did not come into existence until 1929, when the Lateran Treaty was put into effect. With a population of only around eight hundred, this walled city-state is the smallest independent state in the world today.

The Holy See is not what many people think it is. Vatican City is where the Pope resides and the See is the governing body of this independent state. Oftentimes the two terms are used interchangeably, and this is very incorrect. By understanding that one resulted from Christ and his apostle Peter and the other resulted from a treaty, then a person can better comprehend what the Roman Catholic Church is all about. Power reigns supreme in most countries, but in Vatican City, God reigns supreme thanks to his emissary on earth known as the Pope.