Vatican names first laywoman to head communications

The Vatican has appointed 39-year-old Mexican-American media executive Maria Alvarado to lead its communications department, making her the first laywoman and first non-Italian to hold the post. She takes office this week and will oversee Vatican television, radio, print operations and the press office. Announced in June by Pope Leo XIV, the appointment follows her role leading EWTN News from 2023 and 14 years at the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty. She succeeds Paolo Ruffini, who was appointed by Pope Francis in 2018.