Leading nun to become president of Pontifical Mission Societies

October 09, 2026

Pope Leo XIV appointed Sister Mary Barron, O.L.A., as the new president of the Pontifical Mission Societies, effective January 4.

The Pontiff also appointed Sister Barron adjunct secretary of the Dicastery for Evangelization, in the Section for First Evangelization and the New Particular Churches.

The Irish religious sister has been superior general of the Missionary Sisters of Our Lady of the Apostles since 2018 and was president of the International Union of Superiors General from 2023 to 2025.

There are four Pontifical Mission Societies: the Pontifical Society of the Propagation of the Faith, the Pontifical Society of the Holy Childhood, the Pontifical Society of St. Peter the Apostle, and the Pontifical Missionary Union. The Societies’ previous president, Archbishop Emilio Nappa, was appointed Secretary General of the Governorate of the Vatican City State last year.

The Missionary Sisters of Our Lady of the Apostles has 622 sisters in 21 nations, mostly in Africa, according to its French-language website. The institute has 67 postulants and novices.

 

---

For all current news, visit our News home page.

---

 
Further information:

• Resignations and Appointments (Holy See Press Office, 10/8/26)
• Sr Mary T Barron OLA appointed to Senior Vatican Missionary Role (Missionary Sisters of Our Lady of the Apostles, 10/8/26)