Illinois bishop to succeed Cardinal Dolan as leader of New York Archdiocese, according to recent reports.

Timothy Cardinal Dolan is slated to be replaced as the head of the Archdiocese of New York in the forthcoming days, according to multiple reports from various media outlets. Pope Leo is anticipated to appoint Bishop Ronald Hicks of the Diocese of Joliet, Illinois, as Dolan’s successor. This decision holds significant weight, as the Archdiocese of New York is the second-largest in the United States.

Speculation regarding Hicks’ impending appointment gained traction following an announcement by Rob Astorino, host of Newsmax’s “Saturday Agenda.” Astorino, who previously co-hosted a radio program with Dolan on SiriusXM’s Catholic channel, suggested via a post on X that the Pope has accepted Dolan’s resignation, thereby paving the way for Hicks to take the reins of one of the most influential positions within the Catholic Church in America.

Cardinal Dolan submitted his resignation earlier this year, in February, upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 75, a requirement established by the Catholic Church. His tenure as the Archbishop of New York began in April 2009, following his appointment by Pope Benedict XVI. Over the last 16 years, Dolan has had a prominent presence in the church and society, participating in two papal conclaves. Notably, he voted for Pope Francis after the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI and later returned to assist in the election of the current pontiff.

Bishop Ronald Hicks, at 58 years old, has led the Diocese of Joliet since 2020. His pastoral experience includes two years as an auxiliary bishop for the Archdiocese of Chicago prior to his current role. The proximity of Joliet to Chicago, the birthplace of Pope Leo, adds an interesting layer to the appointment, as it underscores the Pope’s connection to the region.

This transition in leadership within the Archdiocese of New York marks the culmination of an era under Cardinal Dolan, who was elevated to cardinal status by Pope Benedict XVI in 2012. As Hicks prepares to assume this influential role, the Catholic community and observers alike are closely watching how this leadership change will shape the future of the Archdiocese in a challenging sociopolitical landscape. The implications of Hicks’ appointment could resonate beyond New York, influencing broader initiatives within the Church in the United States.

This anticipated leadership change not only highlights the way the Catholic Church continues to navigate its age-old traditions with the evolving demands of modern society but also re-emphasizes the significant role that archbishops play in the spiritual and social governance of their communities.