Pope Appoints LGBTQ-Supportive Cardinal McElroy as Archbishop of Washington, D.C.

Pope Francis Appoints Cardinal Robert McElroy

On January 6, Pope Francis announced the appointment of Cardinal Robert McElroy of San Diego as the new Archbishop of Washington, D.C. Cardinal McElroy is known for his strong support of the LGBTQ+ community, making his appointment a significant moment for LGBTQ+ Catholics and allies. He will succeed Cardinal Wilton Gregory, another advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, who has served in this role since 2019. The formal installation ceremony for Cardinal McElroy is scheduled for March 11 at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C.

Leadership in the Nation's Capital

As the Archbishop of Washington, McElroy will lead the Archdiocese, which encompasses Catholic churches and institutions across Washington, D.C., and several Maryland counties, including Montgomery, Prince George’s, Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s. His leadership comes at a crucial time, as many in the LGBTQ+ community look to religious figures for support amidst political challenges.

Francis DeBernardo, the executive director of New Ways Ministry, an LGBTQ Catholic organization based in Maryland, expressed enthusiasm about McElroy’s appointment. "New Ways Ministry is delighted that Pope Francis has appointed Cardinal Robert McElroy as the next Archbishop of Washington, D.C.," DeBernardo said. He highlighted McElroy's reputation as a brilliant theologian and political analyst, further noting his vocal support for LGBTQ+ issues.

A History of Advocacy

Cardinal McElroy's record includes several public statements and actions supporting LGBTQ+ individuals. In 2024, he criticized church leaders opposing the Vatican's directive to bless same-sex relationships, describing their stance as rooted in "an enduring animus among far too many toward LGBT persons." In a 2023 essay, he condemned the "profound and visceral animus" toward LGBTQ people within the church, calling it a "demonic mystery of the human soul."

In 2018, McElroy spoke against scapegoating gay priests for the clergy sexual abuse crisis, emphasizing that such abuse stems from power dynamics rather than sexual orientation. He also supported Aaron Bianco, a gay pastoral worker in his San Diego Archdiocese, who faced threats due to his marriage to another man. After the tragic mass shooting at the Pulse nightclub in 2016, McElroy was among the first Catholic leaders to offer condolences to the LGBTQ community.

Looking Forward

DeBernardo noted the importance of McElroy's appointment as the U.S. transitions into a new political era. "We are confident that Cardinal McElroy can provide a strong Catholic voice affirming the human dignity of LGBTQ+ people and the need for laws that will protect them," he stated.

Vince Rodriguez, president of Dignity Washington, an LGBTQ Catholic group, echoed this sentiment. "I’m delighted, absolutely delighted about this appointment that the Pope has made," Rodriguez told the Washington Blade. He emphasized the timeliness of this decision in light of the challenges facing LGBTQ+ rights under the incoming administration.

Rodriguez expressed hope that McElroy would be a powerful voice in the nation's capital, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and challenging potential political setbacks. "I think it will be good to have a voice here in Washington to hopefully challenge some of that," he said.

Cardinal McElroy's appointment is seen as a promising step for LGBTQ+ Catholics and their allies, continuing the legacy of Cardinal Wilton Gregory's leadership. As the new Archbishop, McElroy's advocacy and support for LGBTQ+ issues are expected to bring positive change and reinforce the Catholic Church's commitment to inclusivity and the dignity of all people.