Pope Francis on Monday named the first woman to head a major Vatican office, appointing an Italian nun, Sister Simona Brambilla, to become prefect of the department responsible for all the Catholic Church’s religious orders.

The appointment marks a major step in Pope Francis' aim to give women more leadership roles in governing the church.

Sister Simona Brambilla was appointed as the prefect of a Vatican office that oversees religious orders, but she may not be alone at the top.

A woman is appointed Vatican prefect by Pope Francis for the first time. 'iPhone 17 Pro Max': What to expect from Apple's premium lineup in 2025 The world's richest person in every decade since the 1820s Fears grow over HMPV virus as images emerge from China Fascinating historic pics of the world's most famous landmarks Footprints from 1.