For the first time, the Pope has named three women to serve as members of the Vatican office that helps him appoint new bishops.
The Dicastery for Bishops had, until now, been men only.
Our World News Editor Kate Gregan has this report.
Pope Francis has always tried to present himself as a reformer, now, he’s made another dent in Catholic tradition.
The Dicastery for bishops has a crucial role.
It oversees the work of most ordained clergy members.
It also examines the record of any priest who wants to become a bishop, and then recommends to the Pope which ones he should approve.
That committee will now include two nuns, and a laywoman - who is the head of a prominent international Catholic organisation.
Theologian Tina Beatty told the BBC the move is significant - and well overdue.
"I think the Pope realises that the church is lagging far behind most secular societies with regard to the role of women and he is doing his best.
"There are many women as well as men I have to say on the more conservative wing of the catholic church who do not want to see any change in the status quo and who would regard the further promotion of women as a negative step."
The announcement follows the publication of a new Vatican constitution, which allows any baptised Catholic, including men and women who haven't been ordained, to head most Vatican departments.
Speaking to Reuters last month, the Pope said the church must move forward.
"I am open to giving an opportunity there is now a women deputy governor and two women will be appointed for the first time to the committee to choose bishops in the congregation for bishops, this way things are opening up a little bit."
But those hoping for more radical change are likely to be disappointed.
When it comes to women actually becoming a bishop or a priest - Pope Francis has always made his position very clear -- that door is firmly closed.
