NUNCIO  , or NuNTIUS APOSTOLICUS, a representative of the

pope sent on diplomatic mission . The nuncios are of lower rank than the legati a latere, but have practically superseded them as ambassadors of thepapacy . Nuncios were permanently established at various courts and ecclesiastical centres during the 16th century . According to the decision of the congress of Vienna the diplomatic rank of a papal nuncio corresponds to that of an ambassador . The powers of a nuncio are limited by his instructions . If a cardinal, as rarely is the case, he uses the title pro-nuntius . The pro-nuntius at Vienna has practically the position of a legatus a latere .