History in the Making: Pope Francis Appoints First Woman to Lead a Vatican Dicastery

Vatican, January 6, 2025: Pope Francis appointed Sister Simona Brambilla as Prefect of the Dicastery for Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life on Monday, the Solemnity of the Epiphany. This historic appointment makes her the first woman to lead a Dicastery in the Holy See, a role traditionally reserved for Cardinals and Archbishops. Sister Brambilla, who previously served as Secretary of the Dicastery since October 7, 2023, succeeds her earlier leadership roles, including her tenure as Superior General of the Consolata Missionaries from 2011 to 2023.

Sister Brambilla’s background is marked by a rich missionary experience, including her work in Mozambique and her earlier career as a professional nurse. Her appointment aligns with Pope Francis's commitment to increasing women's representation in leadership roles within the Vatican. Under his pontificate, the percentage of women serving in the Holy See and Vatican City State has risen from 19.2% in 2013 to 23.4% in 2023.

This milestone reflects the Pope’s vision outlined in the Apostolic Constitution Praedicate Evangelium of 2022, which allows laypeople, including women, to hold roles such as Dicastery Prefect. Sister Brambilla joins a growing number of women appointed to influential positions in Vatican governance, including Barbara Jatta, Director of the Vatican Museums; Sister Raffaella Petrini, Secretary General of the Governorate; and Sister Nathalie Becquart, Undersecretary of the General Secretariat of the Synod.

Additionally, Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, 65, who was created Cardinal in September 2023, has been appointed Pro-Prefect of the same Dicastery, complementing Sister Brambilla’s leadership.

Sister Brambilla's appointment is part of a broader effort to enhance inclusivity and collaboration in Church leadership. Her contributions are expected to further the Church's mission of supporting consecrated life and societies of apostolic life worldwide.

Courtesy: Vatican News