Pope Leo XIV has appointed 24 new members to the International Theological Commission and renewed the terms of six others, establishing the Commission’s membership for its 2026-2031 term.
The Commission, which assists the Holy See in examining significant theological and doctrinal questions, will consist of 30 members drawn from Catholic institutions around the world.
Among those confirmed for another five-year term is Msgr. Piero Coda, who will continue serving as the Commission’s Secretary General.
Assisting the Church in Theological Study
Established by Pope St. Paul VI in 1969, the International Theological Commission supports the work of the Holy See, particularly the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, by studying theological matters of importance to the Church.
Its members include priests, religious, and lay theologians recognized for their scholarship and fidelity to the Church’s Magisterium.
The Commission examines questions concerning Catholic doctrine, drawing upon the Church’s theological tradition to provide research and guidance in response to contemporary challenges.
Members are appointed by the Holy Father for five-year terms following recommendations from the Prefect of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith and consultation with Bishops’ Conferences.
The results of the Commission’s studies are presented to the Pope and made available to the Dicastery to assist in its doctrinal work.
Beginning a New Five-Year Term
The latest appointments mark the Commission’s eleventh five-year term. Its membership includes 13 theologians from Europe, five from South America, four each from Africa and Asia, three from North America, and one from Australia.
The Commission is scheduled to hold its next plenary session from November 23-27.
Since its establishment, the Commission has published 33 theological documents approved by its president, the Prefect of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith.
The complete list of newly appointed and returning members is available through the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith.