François Hollande: First and only Honorary Canon of the Vatican??

Did you know that the title of "First and only honorary canon" is bestowed upon heads of state by the Vatican?
Thus, the newly elected French president, François Hollande, will take possession next Tuesday, at the Roman Basilica of St. John Lateran, of this still very official title.

In keeping with this long-standing tradition since 1958, four French presidents have received this title by visiting the basilica, the seat of the Bishop of Rome, to receive this honor. In December 2007, Nicolas Sarkozy was even granted an audience with Pope Benedict XVI.

A question arises…

Known for his commitment to secularism in the Constitution, will François Hollande decide to break with this tradition initiated by Henry IV (one of the most beloved kings in France)? Indeed, in 1593, the "Vert-Galant" (Henry IV) abjured Protestantism and decided to donate the Benedictine Abbey of Clairac to the Lateran Basilica (located in southern France) to support his decision. To thank him for this gesture, the Lateran chapter bestowed upon the king the title of "First and only Honorary Canon." Every year on December 13th, a Mass in honor of France is celebrated in the Basilica of St. John Lateran.

Before François Hollande, the first left-wing president of the 5th^e Republic, François Mitterrand, had not wished to continue this official tradition.

An unusual privilege

In principle, this right even allows the President of the Republic to enter the Vatican Basilica…on horseback.