(The following statements were issued after Pope Francis on Jan. 6, 2025 named Cardinal Robert W. McElroy, the bishop of the Catholic Diocese of San Diego, as the new archbishop of Washington.)
Statement by Cardinal Donald Wuerl, Archbishop Emeritus of Washington
“The announcement that our Holy Father Pope Francis has appointed Cardinal Robert McElroy as the next Archbishop of Washington is welcome news. In his long ministerial service, he has demonstrated generous pastoral ability and engaging leadership. It is a joy to join in greeting our new archbishop and asking God's blessings on him and the beloved Church of Washington.”
Statement by Bishop Roy Campbell, Jr., Auxiliary Bishop of Washington
“It is with great joy and anticipation that I received the announcement of our Holy Father appointing Cardinal Robert W. McElroy of San Diego, as the next Archbishop of Washington. Cardinal McElroy brings the pastoral, spiritual, intellectual and political gifts necessary to shepherd the people of God in the Church of Washington, where the seat of government of the United States of America also comes under his pastoral care.
“I am anxious to share my knowledge of this community that I grew up in with Cardinal McElroy as he comes to know the people of God in the Archdiocese of Washington, its clergy and the archdiocesan pastoral staff. Cardinal McElroy is no stranger to a large and diverse diocese as Bishop of San Diego, and his pastoral gifts and leadership will serve him and the Archdiocese of Washington very well. I look forward to working closely with Cardinal McElroy in his ministry of leading all who make up this Church and this community.”
Statement by Bishop Juan Esposito, Auxiliary Bishop of Washington
“As it was in 2019 with the appointment of Cardinal Wilton Gregory, today’s announcement of the appointment of Cardinal Robert McElroy as the eighth Archbishop of Washington is yet another expression of our Holy Father Pope Francis’ loving concern for this portion of the People of God that is the Archdiocese of Washington.
“Cardinal McElroy’s inspiring leadership, wealth of pastoral experience and clear articulation of the Holy Father’s Magisterium will be a source of abundant blessings for the Archdiocese of Washington.
“With much joy I offer my prayers and support to our new shepherd Cardinal McElroy, and I look forward to assisting him in meeting the pastoral needs of our archdiocese.”
Statement by Bishop Evelio Menjivar, Auxiliary Bishop of Washington
“I enthusiastically welcome the news from our Holy Father Pope Francis about the appointment of Cardinal Robert W. McElroy, Bishop of San Diego, to be the new Archbishop of Washington.
“Cardinal McElroy is widely recognized for his inclusive pastoral approaches, his bold advocacy for immigrants, and his support of Pope Francis’ vision for the renewal of the Church. Cardinal McElroy brings to Washington his extensive experience of serving a multicultural church as it is in San Diego, and I look forward to working with him.
“I pray to Our Lord, through the intercession of Our Lady of Guadalupe, for His wisdom, love and strength as Cardinal McElroy begins his ministry in the Archdiocese of Washington.”
