You have reached the Vatican in Exile. The Bishop of Rome since the Lateran Treaty holds two positions. The first goes back to the time of Saint Peter, and that is the position as head of the Catholic Church. Since the Lateran Treary, the Pope is also recognized by the world as head of state of the Vatican City State. This 105 acre country is governed by the 1917 Code of Canon Law. Also the election of the Pope is governed by the decrees of Pope Saint Pius X and Pope Pius XII. Although not specifically mentioned, the Bull Cum Ex Apostolatus Officio determines that apostates, heretics and schismatics cannot be elected Pope, and therefore cannot become head of the Vatican City State.
Why Vatican In Exile? This question arises on occasion. All of the more common names of the Catholic Church for websites were reserved by others. However, this name is simple and easy to understand. Since the Pope is also head of state of the Vatican City State, when Pope Michael was elected in 1990 he assumed both positions. As Pope, he became not only head of the Catholic Church, but also Head of State of the Vatican City State. Unfortunately the nations of the world do not recognize this and accept the heretic Joseph Ratzinger as head of the Vatican City State.
The main purpose of this website is to discuss the matters of the Divine and Catholic Faith as they apply to the events that have occurred since Octoeber 9, 1958.
