Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV on Sunday held a special audience for the Gentlemen of the Papal Household, Antechamber Attendants, and Papal Chair Bearers traditionally known as the sediari expressing heartfelt appreciation for their discreet yet essential role in the daily life and mission of the Pontificate.
The uncommon Sunday gathering took place on February 1 within the Apostolic Palace and brought together those entrusted with the organization and conduct of papal encounters, both formal and informal. During the meeting, the Pope thanked them for their dedicated service, which he described as a daily witness to the “sober beauty that characterizes pontifical protocol.”
Pope Leo acknowledged that their work, coordinated by the Regent of the Prefecture of the Papal Household, Msgr. Leonardo Sapienza, along with Vice-Regent Augustinian Fr. Edward Daleng, is carried out with unwavering loyalty to the Pope. Their commitment, he said, accompanies and supports his apostolic mission and ensures that all who meet him during state visits, public audiences, and private encounters are received with dignity and care.
Reflecting on the essence of their responsibilities, the Holy Father summarized their service through three key actions: to prepare, to welcome, and to greet. “The quality of every encounter begins with thoughtful preparation,” he explained, “even attention to the smallest details contributes to creating a meaningful and respectful meeting.”
The Pope noted that their service calls for humility, attentiveness, and sensitivity, especially within environments rich in history and artistic heritage. Beyond logistical arrangements, he said, their gestures of welcome must be noble without pretension and elegant without excess, allowing warmth and openness to be conveyed naturally to all.
He praised the Gentlemen and attendants for extending the same courtesy and care to everyone they encounter whether dignitaries or pilgrims, patriarchs or petitioners demonstrating consistency rooted in respect and charity.
Pope Leo emphasized that the “sober beauty” associated with pontifical protocol is reflected in their demeanor and conduct. He encouraged them to follow the example of those who served before them, not only by maintaining professional excellence but also by witnessing to these values through lives of integrity and faith.
“The service of honor requires a particular professional ethic,” the Pope said, “but even more, it demands a strong and living faith.” He acknowledged that their service is shaped by devotion to Christ, fidelity to the Church, and loyal service to the Pope.
Concluding the audience, Pope Leo invited each of them to continue fulfilling their responsibilities with dedication and commitment according to their roles, once again expressing his gratitude for their faithful and often unseen service to the Holy See.