Updated: 10:15 a.m.
The Diocese of San Diego will soon welcome a new bishop. The announcement that California native Robert McElroy, currently an auxiliary bishop in San Francisco, will be installed as the diocese’ sixth bishop came from Pope Francis this morning. The appointment was publicized today by Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano, apostolic nuncio to the United States. McElroy succeeds the late Bishop Cirilo Flores who died in September.
Known for his work in social justice within the church, 61-year-old McElroy has focused on economic inequality and a message of inclusion. He is well suited, said San Francisco Diocese Archbishop Cordileone, to serving the San Diego Diocese, which includes impoverished areas along its borders.
Archbishop Cordileone issued the following statement today: “On behalf of the entire Archdiocese of San Francisco, I extend heartfelt congratulations to its native son, the Most Reverend Robert McElroy, upon his appointment as the sixth Bishop of San Diego.
San Diego’s unique position as a major metropolis separated by an international border from another major metropolis, Tijuana, presents distinctive challenges and opportunities. Bishop McElroy’s proven track record of outreach to the poor and marginalized, along with his ability to understand and articulate the complexities involved, will serve him well in responding to Catholics of the Diocese of San Diego, as he builds upon the many graces they have received from God and helps Catholics confront their needs with hope and confidence in the Lord. Bishop McElroy is exemplary in his outreach to many groups and communities in the Archdiocese and we are all grateful for his wise advice and guidance to people and parishes in the Archdiocese. We pray for God’s blessing upon Bishop McElroy as he assumes pastoral leadership of the priests and priestly people of San Diego and Imperial County.”
Bishop McElroy was born in San Francisco in 1954 and grew up in San Mateo County. His family resided in Our Lady of Mercy Parish in Daly City and Our Lady of Angels Parish in Burlingame.