The Pope is the spiritual head of the Roman Catholic Church. Considered the successor of the Apostle Peter, he is the Bishop of Rome and sovereign of the Vatican State. Elected for life by the College of Cardinals, he holds supreme authority over the doctrine, liturgy, and administration of the Church. His role includes moral and spiritual instruction to more than a billion faithful. He represents the unity of Catholics and dialogues with other religions and political leaders. The Pope is also known for his encyclicals and public statements on major world issues.
