Protocol at certain events --- I was privileged to be present at a pontifical high mass in St Peter's at the Vatican in 2018, marking The Church's World Day of the Sick. I was representing IFRC, and the Vatican Heath Council arranged the seating in the cathedral. To my surprise I was seated immediately behind the Cardinals and in front of the Ambassadors. The explanation I was given was that IFRC was entitled to this position because of our direct responsibility for health care. The Ambassadors, including my Australian friend and colleague, were not dismayed by this - it would not have happened at a State occasion but the nature of the event allowed for this variation.

Source author: Christopher Lamb christopher.lamb17@gmail.com