VATICAN CITY — Social media and several online outlets are circulating an unverified claim that Pope Leo XIV has appointed Maria Montserrat Alvarado, President and Chief Operating Officer of EWTN News, as Prefect of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Communication, with the appointment allegedly set to take effect on Nov. 5, 2026.

The claim has sparked widespread discussion across religious and media circles due to the high-profile nature of the alleged appointment. However, as of now, there has been no official confirmation from the Holy See Press Office or publication in any recognized Vatican bulletin announcing such a nomination.

The Dicastery for Communication is one of the central departments of the Roman Curia, responsible for overseeing the Vatican’s global media operations, including news distribution, digital communications, and insтιтutional messaging. Any leadership change in such a role is typically formally announced through official Vatican channels.

Observers caution that premature reports about senior Vatican appointments often emerge online without verification, especially in cases involving prominent media figures. Until an official statement is released, the claim remains unconfirmed.

The story continues to circulate widely, reflecting ongoing public interest in Vatican communications reform and the growing influence of Catholic media organizations worldwide.