New Archbishop Appointed: Bishop Ronald Hicks to Succeed Cardinal Dolan in New York
Bishop Ronald Hicks of Joliet, Illinois is expected to be appointed by Pope Leo XIV as the new archbishop of New York, succeeding Cardinal Timothy Dolan. Both Hicks and Pope Leo hail from Illinois and share a background in suburban Chicago. They also both speak fluent Spanish from their experiences ministering in South and Central America. Hicks, who was ordained in 1994, has a strong background in philosophy and divinity, having studied at Loyola University and the University of St. Mary. He served as a regional director in El Salvador before becoming the bishop of Joliet in 2020.
Cardinal Dolan, who turned 75 in February, submitted his resignation to the Vatican, allowing Pope Leo to appoint his successor. Dolan has been a prominent figure in the Catholic Church for 16 years, leading the Archdiocese of New York through challenging times, including the COVID pandemic and decisions regarding priest sex abuse settlements, school closures, and parish realignment. Despite his resignation, Dolan remains committed to serving the church obediently.
The transition from Cardinal Dolan to Bishop Hicks marks a significant change in leadership for the Archdiocese of New York. Pope Leo's decision to appoint Hicks reflects his influence in shaping the future of the archdiocese. As Hicks prepares to take on this new role, he brings with him a wealth of experience and a commitment to serving the Catholic community in New York. The appointment of a new archbishop signifies a new chapter for the Catholic Church in New York and highlights the importance of leadership continuity in the face of change.