Cardinal Robert McElroy Installed as Archbishop of Washington, D.C.

Cardinal Robert McElroy was formally installed as the new Archbishop of Washington, D.C., during a ceremony at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, attended by over 3,500 people. In his homily, McElroy emphasized themes of hope, human dignity, and the importance of mercy and compassion, contrasting the church's vision of equality with societal divisions. He noted the church's responsibility to address issues like immigration and poverty, particularly in light of challenges posed by the Trump administration's policies. McElroy, a liberal figure within the Catholic Church, has previously defended the administration of communion to pro-abortion politicians, which has sparked controversy. His appointment follows the retirement of Cardinal Wilton Gregory and comes at a critical time when the archdiocese faces budget constraints. McElroy aims to advocate for marginalized communities while navigating the complexities of a changing political landscape.