Pope Appoints Sr. Raffaella Petrini as President of Vatican City Governorate

Vatican, February 15, 2025— Pope Francis has appointed Sister Raffaella Petrini, F.S.E., as President of the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State and the Governorate of Vatican City State. The Holy See Press Office announced the appointment on Saturday, stating it will take effect on March 1, 2025.

Sister Petrini, a member of the Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist, has served as Secretary General of the Governorate since 2021. Her appointment marks a historic milestone as she becomes the first woman to lead Vatican City’s administration.

In her new role, she will oversee governance, security, infrastructure, and cultural heritage management, ensuring the city-state operates in alignment with the Holy See’s directives.

She succeeds Cardinal Fernando Vérgez Alzaga, L.C., who has held the position since 2021.

Courtesy: Vatican News