Pope Francis has officially accepted the resignation of Cardinal Wilton Gregory, the Archbishop of Washington, D.C., on January 5, 2025, at the age of 75. Following this, Robert McElroy, who previously served as the Bishop of San Diego, has been appointed as Gregory’s successor. In a statement on the US Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) website, Cardinal Gregory expressed gratitude for his time in Washington, stating, “Serving as Archbishop has been the greatest honor of my life, and I will continue to cherish the friendships and relationships formed here.” Robert McElroy’s appointment marks a significant shift in leadership, making him the first new Archbishop of Washington since Gregory was appointed in 2019. With his strong advocacy for social justice and environmental issues, McElroy is expected to bring a progressive approach to the archdiocese. The Vatican’s announcement also noted the Pope’s appreciation for Cardinal Gregory’s commitment to the Church and his pastoral care during challenging times, referencing his efforts in addressing issues related to marriage, family, and the protection of children within the church. McElroy himself commented, “I am humbled and grateful for this appointment and look forward to serving the people of Washington with love and dedication.” The transition was smooth, with both bishops working closely together to ensure a seamless handover of responsibilities.
Pope Francis Accepts Cardinal Wilton Gregory’s Resignation, Appoints Robert McElroy as New Archbishop of Washington
