In brief
In a significant appointment, Pope Francis has named Cardinal Robert W. McElroy, the current bishop of San Diego, as the new Roman Catholic archbishop of Washington. This move comes just two weeks before the inauguration of President-elect Donald J. Trump and underscores the Pope's priorities amidst a complex political backdrop. Cardinal McElroy, 70, is known for his advocacy on issues impacting migrants and marginalized communities within the church, making him a crucial ally for the Pope’s inclusive agenda.
McElroy succeeds Cardinal Wilton Gregory, the first African-American cardinal, and will take the helm as powerful segments of the American Catholic community align with Trump’s conservative immigration and social policies. Just last month, McElroy and a group of bishops publicly supported immigrant rights in light of Trump's renewed stance on immigration, emphasizing the Church's commitment to dignity and family unity for migrants. This appointment signals Pope Francis’ ongoing efforts to steer the Church towards a more compassionate and inclusive direction.
