“The appointment of Archbishop Wilton D. Gregory to lead the Archdiocese of Washington is a great blessing for the faithful and all served by the Archdiocese. In naming Archbishop Gregory, the Holy Father has chosen a distinguished leader with the heart of a pastor. Prior to his appointment as Archbishop of Atlanta, he led the bishops conference during the time of the revelation of the clergy sexual abuse crisis. His commitment to child protection, to pastoral care for survivors and his call for greater accountability for bishops is clear and is well regarded. He has long demonstrated, going back to his earlier assignments as Bishop of Belleville and Auxiliary Bishop of Chicago, a sense of joy in the Gospel. Archbishop Gregory demonstrates a deep appreciation and commitment for the pastoral needs of the faithful and engagement on the issues essential to the life of the Church and wider society. We offer our prayers, support and best wishes as he undertakes this important role in the Church.”