The papacy is the office held by the Pope, who is the spiritual leader of the Roman Catholic Church. The Pope is considered the successor to Saint Peter, one of Jesus Christ's apostles, and has authority over the Church's teachings, governance, and administration. The papacy plays a significant role in guiding the beliefs and practices of millions of Catholics worldwide. The Pope resides in Vatican City, an independent city-state surrounded by Rome, Italy. The papacy has a long history, dating back nearly two thousand years, and has evolved through various challenges, including political conflicts and theological debates. Today, the Pope also engages in global issues, promoting peace, social justice, and interfaith dialogue.