In a recent interview with Reuters, Pope Francis expressed his intention to enhance the representation of women in top-level positions within the Vatican. This includes his plan to appoint women to a previously all-male Vatican committee responsible for assisting in the selection of bishops worldwide.
During the discussion with Reuters on July 6, the 85-year-old pontiff specifically addressed the role of women in the Vatican and highlighted the significance of their participation in such committees.
The pope’s announcement comes after the implementation of a new constitution for the Holy See’s central administration, which now permits any baptized Catholics, including lay men and women, to lead most Vatican departments.
“I am open to giving (women) an opportunity,” Pope Francis stated in relation to the new constitution for the central administration, known as the Curia.
He referenced the previous appointment of a woman, Sister Raffaella Petrini, to the second-highest position in the governance of Vatican City, making her the highest-ranking woman in the world’s smallest country.
“Two women will be appointed for the first time in the committee to elect bishops in the Congregation for Bishops,” he added, emphasizing the significance of women being involved in the appointment of bishops, who have historically been men.
“This way, things are opening up a bit,” he remarked.
Although he did not disclose the names of the appointed women or the expected announcement date, Pope Francis pointed out that the committee, currently comprised of cardinals, bishops, and priests, typically convenes twice a month in Rome.
Responding to a question about which other Vatican departments could potentially be led by lay men or women, Pope Francis suggested the departments for Catholic Education and Culture and the Apostolic Library, both currently overseen by male clerics.
Pope Francis has already appointed several women, including nuns and lay women, to various Vatican departments. Additionally, he has selected Nathalie Becquart, a French member of the Xaviere Missionary Sisters, as the co-undersecretary of the Synod of Bishops, which organizes major gatherings of bishops from around the world at irregular intervals.