A nun from Ireland has been appointed to one of the most senior roles in the Vatican.

As President of the Pontifical Mission Societies, Sister Mary Teresa Barron will lead the Holy See's global missionary networks, supporting and evangelising churches throughout the world through prayer and formation.

It's the first time a woman has held the role and the latest in a series of senior female appointments at the Vatican by Pope Leo.

Sister Mary, who's from County Donegal said her appointment had been "completely unexpected" and she accepted it "with humility and with a profound awareness that it is larger than myself. I see it as a recognition of the countless women, religious and lay, who have dedicated their lives to proclaiming the Gospel and serving God's people in every corner of the world".

Sister Mary who has been Superior General of the Missionary Sisters of Our Lady of Apostles since 2018, said her appointment was "in many ways a tribute to the countless Irish missionaries, past and present, who have given so generously in service to God's mission. I carry their example with me and hope to honour that tradition by continuing to foster a spirit of missionary solidarity and service throughout the global Church."

In a statement, the Missionary Sisters of our Lady of Apostles said it was "overjoyed" at her appointment and spoke of her "profound" work in Nigeria and Tanzania, which involved "diverse pastoral activities, youth work, women’s empowerment, and coordination of HIV and AIDS projects".

Sister Mary, who's asked for prayers for all those engaged in missionary service around the world, will begin her new role in January 2027.