Pope Francis has named Bishop Richard G. Henning as the new leader of the Catholic Archdiocese of Boston, succeeding Cardinal Seán P. O’Malley. This announcement was made on Monday, with Bishop Henning currently leading the Diocese of Providence in Rhode Island. Cardinal O’Malley, a key ally of the pope, is known for his work on addressing sexual abuse within the church. Bishop Henning's elevation to this prominent role in Boston, one of the largest and oldest American Catholic seats, could potentially lead to him becoming a cardinal with the power to vote for the next pope. Cardinal O’Malley, who turned 80 in late June, is part of Pope Francis’s inner circle and has been known for his advocacy on various issues, including gun violence. The transition is scheduled to take place on October 31, and the Vatican has yet to announce any changes to Cardinal O’Malley’s responsibilities.