Pope Francis appoints new International Theological Commission

Pope Francis has appointed the new members of the International Theological Commission for the 2026–2031 term, while renewing the mandates of existing members. The commission, which assists the Holy See and the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith in examining significant doctrinal issues, has expanded from 28 to 30 members.

The new composition shows an increase in diversity, specifically regarding gender and lay participation. There are now eight women on the commission, including five laywomen, and the total number of lay theologians has doubled to eight.

Geographically, the commission includes 13 representatives from Europe, 4 from Asia, 4 from Africa, 3 from North America, 5 from South America, and 1 from Australia. Among the new appointments is Fray Jorge Scampini of the Dominican Order from Argentina. A plenary session is scheduled to take place from November 23 to 27.