Breaking Barriers: Pope Francis Appoints First Woman Prefect of Vatican Dicastery
In a historic move, Pope Francis has appointed Simona Brambilla, a 60-year-old nun, as the prefect of the Dicastery for the Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life. This groundbreaking appointment marks the first time a woman has held the position of prefect in the history of the Vatican. The Vatican’s dicasteries, which number 16, function as bodies divided by subject and competence that support the Pope in leading the Catholic Church, akin to various ministries within a government.
As prefect, Sister Brambilla will oversee the dicastery, which plays a crucial role in the Church's mission and governance. Her appointment places her among cardinals, bishops, priests, and laypeople who make up the dicastery's membership.
Sister Brambilla is a member of the Missionary Sisters of the Consolata, a congregation recognized for its global missions, and she has previously served as its head. Her extensive experience includes providing nursing care and engaging in missionary work in Mozambique, illustrating her commitment to service.
Prior to her new role, Brambilla served as secretary of the same dicastery since October 7, 2023, becoming the second woman ever to hold such a position in Vatican history, following Sister Alessandra Smerilli, who was appointed secretary of the Dicastery for the Promotion of Integral Human Development in 2021.
Pope Francis has consistently advocated for greater gender equality within the Vatican, seeking to empower women by granting them increased decision-making authority and significant roles within the Church. This latest appointment is a significant step towards realizing that vision, as Sister Brambilla prepares to navigate the complexities of her new responsibilities, balancing tradition with the need for progressive reform.
With this historic appointment, the Vatican takes one more step on a path toward inclusivity and equality, signaling to the world that women’s contributions to the Church are invaluable and essential to its future.
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