Here’s what you need to know.
Pope Francis recently named Cardinal Robert W. McElroy as the latest Archbishop of Washington, D.C., replacing Cardinal Wilton Gregory. McElroy, the current bishop of San Diego, is known for his progressive stance on a number of key issues, including immigration and social justice. This appointment comes as President Biden is preparing for his visit to the Vatican and just days before President Trump’s second term begins on January 20.
McElroy, a native of San Francisco, has been an outspoken critic of former President Trump’s immigration policies, which focused on tightening border security and limiting illegal immigration. During Trump’s first term, McElroy voiced concerns about the treatment of immigrants, particularly those at the southern border, and advocated for more compassionate policies. His position on immigration often put him at odds with conservative elements of the Catholic Church, especially in areas like California’s border region, which falls under his current diocesan jurisdiction.
The timing of McElroy’s appointment is significant, as it comes just before a potentially contentious political period. Trump’s second term will likely see continued debates over immigration reform, while the Biden administration has shown a different approach, emphasizing pathways to citizenship and protections for undocumented individuals. McElroy’s record of supporting migrants and his progressive views on LGBTQ issues and women in the Church stand in stark contrast to the more conservative, traditional values championed by some Catholic leaders.
Meanwhile, Cardinal Gregory, who is known for his close relationship with President Biden, had reached the mandatory retirement age of 75 and submitted his resignation as required by Church law. Gregory had also been at the center of debates within the Church regarding the reception of communion by pro-choice Catholic politicians, a conversation that continues to divide many within the faith.
McElroy’s appointment signals a continued shift in the leadership of the Catholic Church in America, with Pope Francis favoring bishops who promote a more inclusive and progressive agenda. While this may resonate with many liberal Catholics, it is likely to raise concerns among conservative members who are wary of the direction in which the Church is heading. As the nation faces continued cultural and political divisions, the appointment of McElroy represents a significant moment in both the American Church and the broader political landscape.