Vatican Appoints Fr. Gilbert De Lima to International Theological Commission

VATICAN CITY, October 20, 2026: The appointment of Fr. Gilbert De Lima to the International Theological Commission marks a new responsibility for the Indian priest, who serves as executive secretary of the Commission for Theology and Doctrine of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI).

The Holy See Press Office announced his appointment on October 19, 2026, as part of the appointments to the International Theological Commission for its 2026–2031 term. Fr. De Lima is among 24 newly appointed members selected by Pope Leo XIV, while six members from the previous term have been confirmed for another five years.

In his current role with the CCBI, Fr. De Lima serves the Church’s work in theology and doctrine. His appointment places him among theologians from different countries and academic traditions who contribute to the International Theological Commission’s work of examining significant doctrinal questions facing the Church.

The commission assists the Holy See, particularly the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, in studying questions of major theological importance and contemporary relevance. Its members bring together their theological scholarship and perspectives from different cultural and ecclesial contexts in service of the Church’s doctrinal reflection.

The commission’s membership for the 2026–2031 term comprises 30 members, an increase from 28 in the previous term. The new composition also includes greater representation from Asia, Africa and South America, alongside increased lay participation.

Established by Pope Paul VI in 1969, the International Theological Commission submits the results of its studies to the Pope and makes them available to the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith. Its members are appointed by the Pope for five-year terms.

Fr. De Lima’s appointment brings his existing service to the Church’s theological and doctrinal work into an international commission that advises the Holy See on questions central to Catholic theology and doctrine.

By Catholic Connect Reporter