Indian bishops welcome woman leading Vatican communications

NEW DELHI (Indian Catholic News) — Indian Catholic bishops have welcomed Pope Leo XIV’s appointment of Maria Montserrat Alvarado to the Dicastery for Communication, calling it a powerful affirmation of shared responsibility in the Church and a sign of the growing role of women in leadership.

Bishop Rayarala Vijaya Kumar of Srikakulam, chairman of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India’s Office for Social Communications, praised the appointment in a statement issued June 2, describing it as a significant moment for the Church’s communications mission.

“I warmly welcome the appointment of Maria Montserrat Alvarado to the Dicastery for Communication,” Bishop Kumar said.

He described the appointment as “both historic and visionary,” saying it reflects “the Church’s growing recognition of the indispensable role of women in leadership and decision-making within ecclesial life.”

“The Holy Father’s decision is a powerful affirmation of participation, collaboration, and shared responsibility in the mission of the universal Church,” Bishop Kumar said.

The Vatican announced June 2 that Pope Leo had appointed Alvarado, president and chief operating officer of EWTN News, as prefect of the Dicastery for Communication. She will assume office on Nov. 1.

Experience in global media

Bishop Kumar said Alvarado brings substantial experience to the role, noting her work across multiple media platforms and international audiences.

“Maria Montserrat Alvarado brings to this important responsibility not only remarkable professional expertise but also a deep commitment to Gospel values and ecclesial service,” he said.

According to the Holy See Press Office, Alvarado was born in Mexico City and studied at Florida International University and George Washington University. From 2009 to 2023, she held senior positions at the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty before joining EWTN News in 2023.

At EWTN News, a service of Eternal Word Television Network, she oversees international media platforms producing content in seven languages across television, print, radio, digital media and social media.

Bishop Kumar said her experience has given her “a profound understanding of contemporary communication and the challenges of engaging diverse audiences in an increasingly interconnected world.”

Navigating the Digital Age

The Indian bishops’ social communications chief said the appointment comes as the Church faces new opportunities and concerns arising from rapidly developing technologies.

“Her appointment comes at a particularly significant moment when the Church is navigating the opportunities and ethical challenges emerging from Artificial Intelligence and the rapidly evolving digital culture,” Bishop Kumar said.

He stressed that the Church’s communications efforts must remain grounded in core values despite technological change.

“In a world increasingly shaped by technology, algorithms, and digital influence, the Church’s communication mission must remain rooted in truth, human dignity, dialogue, and pastoral sensitivity,” Bishop Kumar said.

Expressing confidence in Alvarado’s future leadership, he said her “vision, experience, and commitment to the Church will contribute greatly to strengthening the Dicastery’s mission of fostering authentic communication and innovative evangelization.”

Bishop Kumar concluded by extending “heartfelt congratulations” and assuring Alvarado of “our prayers and best wishes as she undertakes this important ministry in service of the Church and the Gospel.”

Read the full statement.