Most Reverend Robert J. McClory, Bishop of Gary, addressed questions from the faithful in a newly released video, offering guidance to the Catholic community mourning the passing of Pope Francis and providing insight into the process of electing a new pope.
In the recorded interview, Bishop McClory describes the pope as “the most important person in the world,” citing the global nature of the Catholic Church and its profound influence across societies. “There is no other political leader whose jurisdiction extends throughout the whole world,” he said.
Bishop McClory also clarified several misconceptions surrounding papal elections often portrayed in popular media. He discussed the role and definition of cardinals, explaining how the upcoming election—known as the conclave—may differ from previous ones because of the increasingly international composition of the College of Cardinals.
The bishop emphasized that above all, he hopes for a pope chosen according to God’s will. He called on all Christians to join in prayer, particularly invoking the Holy Spirit. “I know that if we keep praying that, the Lord will be faithful to that prayer,” Bishop McClory said.
Future videos will further explain the conclave process, including how the cardinals vote, what occurs once a new pope is elected, and how the world will be informed of the Church’s new earthly leader. A long-form version of the full interview, featuring multiple camera angles, will be uploaded to the Diocese of Gary’s YouTube channel later this week. Shorter clips addressing specific questions are also available through the diocese’s Dropbox folder.
The Diocese of Gary has made additional resources on Pope Francis and the papal transition available at dcgary.org. The Diocese of Gary will continue to update the website with the latest information as it becomes available.
Bishop McClory, who has led the Diocese of Gary since his installation in 2020, oversees a vibrant Catholic community across Lake, Porter, LaPorte and Starke counties. The diocese serves approximately 170,000 Catholics through 57 parishes, two missions, and one Catholic student center. It supports Catholic education with three diocesan high schools, one private high school, and 17 parish elementary schools enrolling more than 6,200 students. Additionally, more than 5,200 students participate in parish Catholic formation programs.
Beyond education, the Diocese of Gary extends its mission through Catholic-affiliated agencies that serve more than two million people annually. These agencies include seven Catholic hospitals, a range of residential and daycare facilities for adults and children, and centers dedicated to social services.
For more information, visit dcgary.org.