Pope names first lay woman to head Vatican department
Key points
- Pope Leo XIV on Tuesday (June 2, 2026) named a Mexico-born news executive to head up the Vatican's powerful communications department — the first lay woman to hold a post in the Roman Curia.
- Maria Montserrat Alvarado, currently president of the Catholic media outlet EWTN News, will take up her post on November 1, the Vatican said in a statement.
- She was born in Mexico City and studied in the United States.
- Vatican News said the appointment was "continuing the path of reform and renewal initiated by Pope Francis", Pope Leo's predecessor.
- "Alvarado is the first non-religious woman to be appointed prefect of a dicastery of the Holy See," the Vatican news service report said.
Quick Summary
Pope Leo XIV on Tuesday (June 2, 2026) named a Mexico-born news executive to head up the Vatican's powerful communications department — the first lay
Why It Matters
This development is important because it may impact public opinion, policy decisions, and future developments related to Pope names first lay woman to head Vatican department.
Key Takeaways
- Pope Leo XIV on Tuesday (June 2, 2026) named a Mexico-born news executive to head up the Vatican's powerful communications department — the first lay woman to hold a post in the Roman Curia.
- Maria Montserrat Alvarado, currently president of the Catholic media outlet EWTN News, will take up her post on November 1, the Vatican said in a statement.
- She was born in Mexico City and studied in the United States.
- Vatican News said the appointment was "continuing the path of reform and renewal initiated by Pope Francis", Pope Leo's predecessor.
- "Alvarado is the first non-religious woman to be appointed prefect of a dicastery of the Holy See," the Vatican news service report said.
📌 Source: The Hindu
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