Pope names new Apostolic Nuncio to the United States
By Allison Mosier03/12/2026
Pope Leo XIV has appointed Archbishop Gabriele Giordano Caccia as the new Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, the Vatican announced March 7. Archbishop Caccia succeeds Cardinal Christophe Pierre, who has served as the pope’s representative in the United States since 2016.
The Apostolic Nuncio serves both as the Vatican’s ambassador to the United States government and as the primary link between the Holy Father and the Catholic Church in the country. Based in Washington, D.C., the nuncio works closely with the nation’s bishops while also maintaining diplomatic relations with the federal government.
Archbishop Caccia brings decades of experience in the diplomatic service of the Holy See. Since 2019 he has served as the Vatican’s Permanent Observer to the United Nations in New York, representing the Vatican in international conversations related to peace, human dignity and cooperation among nations. Earlier in his career he held diplomatic assignments in several countries and served within the Vatican’s Secretariat of State.
Although much of the nuncio’s work takes place quietly and away from public attention, the position carries an important responsibility in the life of the Church: assisting the Holy Father in the process of appointing bishops.
When a diocese anticipates a leadership transition, the nuncio gathers insight from bishops, priests and other trusted voices within the Church who understand the pastoral needs of that local community. After evaluating potential candidates, the nuncio forwards recommendations to the Vatican’s Dicastery for Bishops. The Holy Father ultimately makes the final decision regarding the appointment.
Because of this role, the appointment of a new nuncio is significant for dioceses across the country, including the Diocese of Erie.
Bishop Lawrence T. Persico submitted his resignation to the Holy Father upon reaching the age of 75, as required by canon law, and continues to serve the Diocese of Erie while awaiting the pope’s decision regarding his successor.
Father Christopher Singer, chancellor of the Diocese of Erie, said the appointment of a new nuncio highlights the Church’s global structure and the thoughtful process behind episcopal leadership.
“The Apostolic Nuncio serves as an important connection between the Holy Father and the Church in the United States,” Father Singer said. “Through his work, the experiences and needs of dioceses across the country are brought to the attention of the Vatican, helping the pope remain closely connected to the life of the Church in our communities.”
Father Singer explained that the process of appointing a bishop unfolds carefully and prayerfully.
“The selection of a bishop involves consultation and discernment,” he said. “The nuncio listens to the local Church and gathers insight from those who understand the pastoral life of a diocese. That information helps the Holy Father discern who may best serve the faithful as their shepherd.”
For Catholics in northwestern Pennsylvania, he said, this period invites prayer and trust.
“As we await the Holy Father’s decision, the Church continues its mission,” Father Singer said. “Transitions in leadership remind us that the Holy Spirit continues to guide the Church and raise up leaders who will shepherd the faithful for the future.”
Archbishop Caccia is expected to assume his responsibilities in Washington after concluding his current service at the United Nations.
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