Vatican Appoints First Female Prefect: Sister Simona Brambilla Makes History
In a groundbreaking move, Pope Francis has appointed a woman to a top Vatican position for the first time. Sister Simona Brambilla, an Italian nun, has been named the head of the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, known as the ‘Curia’ of the Holy See.
This appointment aligns with Pope Francis’ ongoing efforts to increase the role of women in the Church’s governance. While women have held senior positions in certain Vatican offices, Sister Brambilla is the first to lead a Vatican congregation, either as a prefect or a secretary.
Before her appointment, Sister Brambilla served as the head of the Consolata Missionary Sisters Institute from 2011 to 2023. She also has experience as a nurse and has worked in mission in Mozambique.
Pope Francis first appointed seven women, including Sister Brambilla, to the Dicastery for Laity, Family, and Life in 2019. She initially served as the dicastery’s secretary before her recent promotion to prefect.
To assist Sister Brambilla in matters related to the divine, Pope Francis has also appointed Cardinal Angel Fernandez Artime. As prefect, Sister Brambilla will oversee certain sacraments, a role traditionally held by priests.
Since Francis’ election in 2013, the Vatican has seen an increase in women’s representation. According to data covering the Holy See and Vatican City State, the percentage of women has risen from 19.2% in 2013 to 23.4% in 2023.
