On the verge of assuming his new role as the archbishop of Washington, D.C. in March, Cardinal Robert McElroy emphasized the need for compassion and respect towards migrants during a press meeting in San Diego. Speaking from the Diocese where he has led as bishop for more than ten years, McElroy stressed the importance of guiding the Catholic Church amidst an America questioning the essence of compassion within its society.
He pointed out the pressing concerns surrounding the revocation of immunity for places of worship against immigration enforcement. This represents a “deep moral question,” particularly highlighting the involvement of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement under the Trump administration’s immigration policies.
McElroy expressed caution about how targeting religious sites for immigration raids fosters fear, discouraging individuals from engaging in worship or attending educational services. “Such actions have a chilling effect,” he remarked, “dissuading people from participating in religious and community activities.”
Under Trump’s leadership, the increased latitude given to immigration officials to conduct arrests at church venues is perceived by McElroy as part of a broader cultural strategy against undocumented individuals, many of whom are escaping severe circumstances. While acknowledging the need for secure borders and robust immigration policies, McElroy criticized the sweeping characterization of all migrants as criminals, suggesting it dehumanizes them and neglects their intrinsic dignity.
Though McElroy has been vocal about the incompatibility of mass deportation threats with Catholic beliefs, he clarified his future focus in Washington will be pastoral rather than political. Stepping in as Cardinal Wilton Gregory retires, McElroy looks to pastorally guide the archdiocese, managing a culturally rich Catholic community where one-third are Hispanic, primarily from Central America. Meeting parishioners and clergy will be his priority, he noted.
He acknowledged an additional challenge with many federal employees facing job losses, emphasizing the Church’s responsibility to stand by its diverse community members during testing times. The Church, he said, must speak moral truths about societal policies through the lens of the Gospel and Catholic teaching.
Having been appointed to lead the Washington archdiocese in January, McElroy is seen as an ally aligned with Pope Francis’ progressive vision. He noted that Francis has persistently discussed the border issues, emphasizing the Pope’s deep concern for migrant situations.
McElroy is hopeful for Pope Francis, currently in Rome battling double pneumonia, to continue shaping the future of the Church with his joyful and prayerful spirit. McElroy praised the Pope’s tireless dedication to Church matters and his engaging demeanor, always open to learning from others.
