For the first time a secular woman will be the chancellor of the primed archdiocese of Mexico

The Primado Archbishop of Mexico, Cardinal Carlos Aguiar Retes, announced his decision to appoint María Magdalena Ibarrola and Suárez, the first secular woman to occupy that position.

Ibarrola and Suárez have a degree in Canon Law from the Pontifical University of Mexico, with a Master in Business Administration from the Latin American University. Since February 2019 it has been the Vice Chancellor of the Archdiocese of Mexico.

In a Message released todaythe Mexican purple said that he made the decision “after hearing the opinion of the auxiliary bishops”, and stressed that it is “a significant step in the pastoral and administrative path of our archdiocese to favor a more synodal church, co -responsible and open to the richness of the charisms of the people of God.”

The Archbishop of Mexico said that “the Chancellor’s service is of great importance in ecclesial life”, and remembering that the responsibility of the position, according to canons 482, 483, 485, 486 and 488 of the Code of Canon Law, “It consists in guarding the documentary memory of the particular Church, guaranteeing the authenticity and protection of the legal acts, and collaborating closely with the government Pastoral of the Bishop. ”

“The entrustment entrusted to Mtra. Ibarrola and Suárez, who for several years has served as Vice Chancellor, recognizes his professional preparation, testimony of ecclesial faith and commitment,” continued the cardinal, highlighting his “academic training and experience in administration of institutions, as well as canon law.”

Ibarrola and Suárez will assume his position on August 15, in the solemnity of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary,

For the Primado Archbishop of Mexico, this appointment “is also a sign of the path we are called to travel: a church where women can participate fully and actively, also in the decision and government spaces.”