In a significant development for the U.S. Catholic Church, bishops have elected Archbishop Paul Coakley of Oklahoma City as their new president. This election marks a decisive choice for a conservative leader during President Donald Trump’s second term.
Election Details
Coakley emerged victorious in a tightly contested ballot, where he successfully defeated centrist candidate Bishop Daniel Flores of Brownsville, Texas, who was later elected vice president. The election results indicate a preference among the bishops for a conservative agenda, as half of the ten candidates nominated belonged to the conservative wing of the bishops’ conference. Coakleys’ prior role as secretary made him a prominent figure within the conference.
Background and Priorities
Previously serving as an adviser to the Napa Institute, Coakley has demonstrated a commitment to traditional Catholic values. His conservative stance includes a strong opposition to abortion and LGBTQ+ rights. In 2018, he publicly supported Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò, a critic of Pope Francis.
Committee Dynamics
- The election involved three rounds of voting.
- Coakley succeeded Military Services Archbishop Timothy Broglio.
- Vice President Archbishop William Lori was ineligible due to age restrictions.
Despite the conservative tilt, some bishops are pushing for greater attention to immigration issues. The U.S. bishops have faced challenges relating to immigration policy under the Trump administration. They previously closed their refugee resettlement program following federal funding cuts.
Addressing Immigration Concerns
While leadership is largely conservative, there remains a unified stance among bishops concerning migrant rights. They plan to address immigration during their meetings, acknowledging the fear of enforcement actions that have affected Mass attendance and parish life.
Papal Support
Recent comments from Pope Leo XIV highlight the need for deep reflection on migrant treatment in the U.S. He noted that many long-time residents are negatively impacted by current immigration policies. The bishops have expressed their commitment to standing with migrants while advocating for secure borders.
This election signifies a pivotal moment for the U.S. Catholic bishops, reflecting both the challenges and priorities they will face moving forward. The conservative leadership under Coakley suggests an emphasis on traditional values while navigating complex social issues under the backdrop of a changing political landscape.
