It is the task of the Prefecture of
the Papal Household to coordinate the services of the
Antechamber and to organize the official audiences granted by
His Holiness to Heads of State, Heads of Government,
Governmental Ministers and other dignitaries, as well as to
Ambassadors who come to the Vatican to present their Letters of
Credence.
The Prefecture takes care of the preparations for all audiences
- private, special and general - and visits from those who are
formally received by the Holy Father. It is also responsible for
arranging Pontifical ceremonies - except liturgical celebrations
- as well as the Spiritual Retreat of the Holy Father, the
College of Cardinals and the Roman Curia.
In addition, the Prefecture oversees the appropriate
arrangements required each time the Holy Father leaves the
Apostolic Palace to visit the city of Rome or travel within
Italy.
