The recent appointment of Cardinal Robert McElroy to Washington, DC, has left many Catholics disheartened and outraged. This is especially true for survivors of clerical abuse. The Vatican’s decision raises serious concerns about the Vatican’s commitment to justice, accountability, and the dignity of survivors. Sadly, this is a recurring theme with the Vatican.
Cardinal McElroy’s record has shown more concern for protecting perpetrators of clerical sexual abuse than for supporting victims. His role in covering up abuse—most notably involving disgraced former Cardinal McCarrick and the satanic sexual abuse case of Rachel Mastrogiacomo—has been well-documented. Yet, instead of facing consequences, McElroy has been elevated to one of the most prestigious positions in the Church.
This appointment is a slap in the face to survivors. It sends the message: political ideologies and agendas are more important than truth, justice, protecting the innocent, and the healing of those who have suffered unimaginable harm. This action undermines the Church’s moral authority and the promises of accountability and transparency made time and time again to survivors and to the Church as a whole.
Some speculate this move aligns with the pope’s own progressive political priorities. McElroy has been a vocal advocate for issues such as support for illegal aliens and LGBTQ inclusion. These are stances that also align with Pope Francis. However, aligning with specific agendas should never come at the expense of justice, integrity, or the protection of the vulnerable.
Catholics should be able to expect more from Church leaders. Catholics, especially survivors, are not trying to shame the Church. Rather, we are (once again) calling for the accountability and transparency we were promised. Survivors want assurance that their suffering has not been in vain, that lessons have been learned, and that the Church is committed to caring for her sheep over shielding her rogue shepherds. Sadly, this is not what we have gotten.
How can the Church expect to remain a moral authority when it fails to grasp some of the most basic principles of justice: those who protect predators must not be entrusted with leadership? Time and again, individuals who have caused harm or turned a blind eye to abuse are elevated to positions of power. This pattern is not only frustrating but deeply scandalous. It’s evil.
The Church is wounded, but we must not lose hope. Renewal and healing are possible, but they require us to pray, fast, and speak out—not in bitterness but in love for the Church and out of a desire to see her reflect the truth of Christ. Yes, we’ve been here before. Many Catholics are sick of hearing about these issues and choose to throw their hands up in defeat. This is not the time to grow complacent. We must continue to fight and to show courage and holiness.
We are called to unite our suffering with Christ’s, to trust in His promise of redemption, and to persevere in seeking justice. Survivors deserve dignity, compassion, and accountability. Leaders of the Church must strive to reflect Christ’s truth, upholding the Gospel with integrity and fidelity.
This is a time for saints. A time for a Church rooted in holiness and unwavering commitment to her mission. Let us pray fervently, act boldly, and trust deeply that God will transform even the darkest trials into a new dawn for His Church.
Christ will not abandon His Bride. Let us remain steadfast and continue fighting for justice and truth to prevail and triumph.
