Next Leader of U.S. Catholic Bishops to Be Elected

Tue Nov 11 2025 16:00:45 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The upcoming election of the U.S. Catholic bishops reveals a divide in the church as they look for new leadership to navigate contemporary issues.

On Tuesday in Baltimore, U.S. Catholic bishops will vote for their next president and vice president, reflecting the church's divisions on social issues, including LGBTQ+ rights and immigration. Candidates range from conservative leaders to those emphasizing unity and modern reforms. The election is seen as critical as the bishops seek to align closer with the Vatican and address pressing societal concerns.

The United States' Catholic bishops are set to elect their next president and vice president on Tuesday in Baltimore, which will not only influence the church's direction but also serve as a barometer for its priorities.

This election follows a period of tension between the bishops and the Vatican, with many bishops often at odds with the progressive approach of Pope Francis. His successor, Pope Leo XIV, is expected to continue his predecessor's focus on serving marginalized communities and addressing issues of poverty and the environment.

The slate of candidates reflects a significant split within the church's hierarchy, with half of the ten candidates coming from a conservative inclination. Although they agree on most social issues, they differ in emphasis, particularly regarding abortion and LGBTQ+ rights.

Among the leading contenders is Oklahoma City Archbishop Paul Coakley, who has previously served as secretary of the conference, positioning him strongly for the presidential role. Other notable names include Bishop Robert Barron and Bishop Kevin Rhoades, both of whom are aligned with traditional Catholic values.

Amid calls for greater unity, Archbishop Charles Thompson and Bishop Daniel Flores represent a call to balance tradition with modern needs, especially concerning immigration. Their support for migrants is shared across many bishops, regardless of their individual political stances.

The upcoming discussions will not only address leadership roles but also how the church can unify amidst social divisiveness. As church leaders navigate these challenges, many hope for a step forward toward modernization and compassion in the face of societal issues.