Pope Leo has named Maria Montserrat Alvarado as the new head of the Vatican’s communications department, effective November 1. Alvarado, currently president of the US-based Catholic media outlet EWTN News, will be the first laywoman to lead a dicastery within the Roman Catholic Church, marking a historic development in the Holy See’s administrative structure.

Born in Mexico City and a US citizen since 2008, Alvarado will replace Paolo Ruffini, who is stepping down from the position. The Vatican communications department is responsible for overseeing the Holy See’s news website, radio station, newspaper, press office, publishing operations, and film archive. This appointment aligns with ongoing reforms initiated under Pope Francis, who has sought to expand the roles of women within Vatican governance and address longstanding institutional attitudes toward gender.

Pope Leo, the first US-born pontiff who was elected last year, has signaled his intent to continue modernizing Vatican communications by emphasizing a more missionary approach. Alvarado has expressed her gratitude for the appointment and affirmed her dedication to furthering the department’s mission of sharing the message of Christ worldwide.

This move reflects a broader shift within the Vatican to promote inclusivity and diversity in its leadership ranks while adapting its communication strategies to contemporary challenges.