The Pope is the leading figure of the Catholic Church, a denomination of Christian faith, the sovereign in charge of the independent state of Vatican City, and also serves an addition appointment/duty as the Bishop of Rome. Popes historically played a significant political role in the west of Europe where they often worked closely with Kings to secure power for both the aristocracy/nobility and the clergymen above the common folk. Modern Popes serve a greater role as a figurehead and as diplomatic leader representing the Catholic faith.