US Catholic Bishops Set to Elect New Leadership Amid Immigration Debate

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) is poised to elect a new president and vice president on November 14, 2023, in Baltimore. This election serves as a significant indicator of the bishops’ priorities, particularly in light of their contrasting views with Pope Francis on several key issues. The outcome could reflect a shift in leadership style, especially regarding social issues such as immigration, which has remained a contentious topic under the previous administration.

Of the ten candidates on the ballot, half align with the conservative wing of the conference. While the majority of U.S. Catholic bishops maintain a conservative stance on social matters, the emphasis varies, particularly on issues like abortion and LGBTQ+ rights. David Gibson, director of Fordham University’s Center on Religion and Culture, noted that the candidate slate captures the current dynamics within the American hierarchy, which is evenly split on ideological lines.

The winner of this election will replace outgoing president, Military Services Archbishop Timothy Broglio, who has served since 2020 and is completing his three-year term. Archbishop William Lori of Baltimore, the current vice president, is approaching the mandatory retirement age of 75, making it unlikely that he will ascend to the presidency.

Among the conservative candidates, Oklahoma City Archbishop Paul Coakley stands out as a strong contender. He previously held the position of secretary, the third-ranking official within the USCCB, and has connections to conservative networks, such as the Napa Institute. Coakley has also publicly supported critics of Pope Francis, adding to his polarizing profile.

Another prominent figure in the election is Bishop Robert Barron, the bishop of the Winona-Rochester diocese in Minnesota. Known for his popular Word on Fire ministry, Barron has become a significant voice in Catholic media. He currently serves on the Religious Liberty Commission established during former President Donald Trump’s administration, alongside Bishop Kevin Rhoades of Fort Wayne-South Bend, Indiana.

The bishops’ election comes at a critical time, as many within the Catholic community are advocating for a leader who can unify the body and foster better relations with the Vatican. Candidates like Archbishop Charles Thompson of Indianapolis and Bishop Daniel Flores of Brownsville, Texas, are viewed as potential unifiers. Both represent a growing Latino presence in the U.S. Catholic Church, which could influence the direction of the conference moving forward.

Flores, who has taken a leading role in the Vatican’s synodal process aimed at modernizing the Church, has a unique perspective shaped by his experiences along the U.S.-Mexico border. He is traditional in terms of sexual ethics but vocal in his defense of migrants, a position that resonates with many Catholic leaders as immigration continues to polarize the nation.

During this meeting, the bishops are expected to discuss immigration, reflecting a shared concern for the plight of migrants, even among conservative members. The bishops stand united in their advocacy for migrants, despite the political divides that characterize their discussions on other issues. The question remains, however, how forcefully the USCCB will address the immigration policies implemented during the Trump administration, which have significantly impacted local parishes and their congregations.

Reports indicate that fear surrounding immigration enforcement has led to decreased attendance at Mass in some areas. Local clergy members are striving to provide sacraments to detained immigrants, underscoring the urgency and human impact of this issue. The USCCB has already discontinued its longstanding refugee resettlement program following the cessation of federal funding for resettlement aid during the previous administration.

Pope Leo XIV has recently called for a “deep reflection” on the treatment of migrants, emphasizing the long-term consequences of current policies on individuals who have lived without causing problems. His remarks highlight the moral imperative facing U.S. bishops as they navigate the complexities of their leadership roles and the broader societal challenges surrounding immigration.

As the bishops prepare to elect their new leadership, the outcome will not only shape the direction of the USCCB but also influence how the Catholic Church in the United States responds to pressing social issues in the years to come.