(The following is the text of the opening remarks of Cardinal Wilton Gregory, archbishop emeritus of Washington, at the Installation Mass of Cardinal Robert McElroy on March 11, 2025 at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.)
“The Church of the Archdiocese of Washington rejoices today at the gift of a remarkable new shepherd. We have been graced with the blessings of a man of wisdom, hope, and gentility in Cardinal Robert McElroy. I personally welcome him as a beloved friend, colleague, and brother. Soon all of the community of faith and our neighbors everywhere will all come to know him as one who stands in our midst as a genuine servant of the Gospel.
“Cardinal McElroy – this wondrous local Church is populated with tens of thousands of hopeful souls all in search of Christ Jesus and who will follow your lead in pursuit of Him. The laity, clergy, and those in Consecrated Life welcome you this afternoon as a brother and shepherd and as we now fervently pray for the continued recovery of Pope Francis, we thank him for generously and wisely providing for the future of this local Church by sending you to us. Again, with jubilant hearts, we say welcome!”
