Bishop Ronald Hicks appointed as the new archbishop of New York by Pope Leo XIV.

In a significant ecclesiastical announcement, Pope Leo XIV has appointed Bishop Ronald Hicks of the Diocese of Joliet, Illinois, as the new Archbishop of New York. Hicks will replace Cardinal Timothy Dolan, who has provided leadership to the state’s approximately 2.8 million Catholics for over 15 years. Cardinal Dolan tendered his resignation in February, in accordance with the Catholic Church’s requirement that bishops submit their resignations upon reaching the age of 75.

Bishop Ronald Hicks, who has been the sixth bishop of the Diocese of Joliet since his appointment by the late Pope Francis in 2020, oversees a community of about 520,000 Catholics spread across seven counties. He will continue in his current role until his installation takes place in New York.

Cardinal Dolan expressed gratitude for the appointment, stating his support for the archbishop-designate and emphasizing the importance of the transition for the Catholic community in New York. As they prepare for this new chapter, both Dolan and Hicks are likely to continue their commitment to serving the spiritual needs of their congregations.

Bishop Hicks brings a wealth of pastoral experience to his new role. His career includes serving as a parish priest in Chicago and holding the position of dean of training at Mundelein Seminary. In 2015, he was appointed vicar general of the Archdiocese of Chicago by Cardinal Blase Cupich, later advancing to the role of auxiliary bishop.

A noteworthy aspect of Hicks’ background is his international service. Similar to Pope Leo XIV, who spent two decades as a missionary in Peru, Hicks dedicated five years in El Salvador leading Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos, an orphanage program operated by the Church across various Latin American and Caribbean nations. This experience may enrich his understanding and approach to the diverse community he will serve in New York.

Hicks has expressed a strong personal affinity for Pope Leo XIV, noting their shared upbringing in the Chicago area. He remarked on the striking similarities in their backgrounds, sharing experiences in the same neighborhoods and local attractions. This connection, along with his extensive pastoral work, positions Bishop Ronald Hicks as a promising leader for the Archdiocese of New York as it navigates the challenges and opportunities of the contemporary Church.

The transition in leadership marks a noteworthy moment for both the Diocese of Joliet and the Archdiocese of New York. The appointment reflects the ongoing commitment of the Catholic Church to adapt and provide spiritual guidance in a changing world. This new era under Bishop Hicks is anticipated to bring fresh perspectives and renewed energy to the Catholic faithful in New York and beyond.