
In a historic announcement on January 6, 2025, Pope Francis named Cardinal Robert W. McElroy, current bishop of the Catholic Diocese of San Diego, as the new archbishop of Washington. Cardinal McElroy will succeed Cardinal Wilton Gregory, who has served as archbishop since 2019 and submitted his resignation in accordance with Church law upon turning 75 in December 2022.
A New Leader for Washington
Cardinal McElroy, a progressive voice in the Catholic Church, brings a deep commitment to social justice and pastoral outreach to his new role. Known for his emphasis on respecting the dignity of the unborn and immigrants, advocating for nonviolence, and supporting outreach to marginalized communities, Cardinal McElroy has been a transformative leader in San Diego since his appointment as bishop in 2015. Elevated to the College of Cardinals in 2022, he now takes on leadership of the Archdiocese of Washington, which serves 655,000 Catholics across Washington, D.C., and five Maryland counties.
“Cardinal McElroy is a scholar and a pastor with a profound commitment to the mission of the Church,” said Cardinal Christophe Pierre, Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, in announcing the appointment. “He brings a unique perspective shaped by years of service to diverse communities.”
The date for Cardinal McElroy’s installation as the eighth archbishop of Washington has not yet been set. Until then, Cardinal Wilton Gregory will serve as apostolic administrator.
A Journey of Service
Born in San Francisco in 1954, Cardinal McElroy felt a calling to the priesthood at a young age. His academic pursuits included degrees from Harvard College, Stanford University, and The Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome. Ordained in 1980, he served in various pastoral and administrative roles, including as auxiliary bishop of San Francisco before becoming bishop of San Diego.
During his tenure in San Diego, Cardinal McElroy prioritized outreach to immigrant communities, supported affordable housing initiatives, and led efforts to expand pastoral care for divorced and remarried Catholics and those with same-sex attraction. His focus on creating a welcoming Church aligned closely with Pope Francis’ vision for a more inclusive Catholic community.
Cardinal Wilton Gregory’s Legacy
Cardinal Wilton Gregory, who has served as archbishop of Washington since 2019, leaves behind a legacy of leadership and advocacy. Elevated to the College of Cardinals in 2020, he was the first African American cardinal in the Catholic Church. Known for his dedication to social justice and his role in implementing the “Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People” during his presidency of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, Cardinal Gregory has been a prominent voice on issues including racial justice and liturgical reforms.
Upon Cardinal McElroy’s installation, Cardinal Gregory will transition to archbishop emeritus of Washington, joining his predecessor, Cardinal Donald Wuerl, in that honorary role.
Looking Ahead
As the new archbishop of Washington, Cardinal McElroy inherits a diocese with a rich history and significant responsibilities. His leadership is expected to focus on deepening communion within the Church, broadening participation in its mission, and addressing pressing social issues.
“We are called to reclaim and reimagine that same mission which Christ gave to the disciples when he walked the earth,” Cardinal McElroy said during the ordination of auxiliary bishops in San Diego in 2023. This vision, combined with his dedication to the principles of inclusion and justice, signals a promising new chapter for the Archdiocese of Washington.