Myriam Wijlens examines the role of nuncios abroad

She will take on the role of so-called "executive secretary" and will work very closely with Cardinal Gracias. Myriam Wijlens is no stranger to the Vatican: She has been a member of the coordination committee of the worldwide synod since 2021, has worked on all the documents published to date and is also present at synod meetings in the Vatican. She was also a member of the "Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors". In recent years, she has researched the relationship between the local churches and bishops' conferences on the one hand and the universal church on the other. She has also co-moderated the "Peter and Paul Seminar", a group of experts on canon law from four continents.

The task of the study group appointed by Pope Francis is now to find out how the pontifical embassy can fulfil its task and responsibility in a synodal church. The group plans to present its initial results in June next year. Myriam Wijlens: "The research carried out at the University of Erfurt is thus once again becoming visible worldwide. That is very pleasing."