Papal gentleman

Papal gentlemen serve in the Apostolic Palace near St. Peter's Basilica in ceremonial positions, such as escorting dignitaries during state visits and other important occasions.

[1] Papal Chamberlain was prior to 1968 a court title given by the pope to high-ranking clergy as well as laypersons, usually members of prominent Italian noble families.

[2] Many came from families that had long served the Papal Court over the course of several centuries, while others were appointed as a high honor, one of the highest the papacy conferred on Catholic laymen (often prominent politicians or wealthy philanthropists).

[2] Prior to Vatican II they provided personal assistance to the pope on formal state occasions as members of the Papal Court.

[4] They welcome dignitaries such as ambassadors and ministers who come to the Vatican or Castel Gandolfo to present their credentials and serve as guides, escorting them to meetings with the pope.