Ronald Hicks to Become New York’s 11th Archbishop: NPR
Ronald Hicks is poised to become the 11th Archbishop of New York in a ceremony scheduled for February 5, 2026. The event will take place at the iconic St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Manhattan, where he aims to engage with diverse attendees.
Details of the Ceremony
The installation ceremony is set to commence at 2 p.m. Hicks, previously the bishop of Joliet, Illinois, expressed his excitement about the event, stating that representatives from various sectors will be present, including:
- Clergy from the Catholic Church
- Laity
- Members of other faiths
- Government officials
- Business leaders
- Labor representatives
- Educators and artists
- First responders
Archbishop Hicks’ Vision
Hicks, who is 58 years old, has indicated that his address will center on his vision for the archdiocese, which encompasses roughly 2.5 million Catholics across Manhattan, the Bronx, Staten Island, and seven northern counties. He emphasized the importance of mission-driven outreach, stating, “I’m going to talk about a church that builds bridges.”
Connection to Pope Leo XI
During his address, Hicks plans to reference the newly appointed Pope Leo XI multiple times. He aligns his vision with the pope’s approach, stressing community engagement and the role of the church in addressing social issues.
Significance of the Leadership Change
This transition in leadership marks a new era for the U.S. Catholic Church. Hicks succeeds the retiring Cardinal Timothy Dolan, who submitted his resignation after reaching the age limit of 75. Hicks’ selection is viewed as a continuation of the progressive stance initiated by the Chicago-born Pope Leo XI.
Collaboration for the Common Good
Hicks is keen on fostering dialogue across political and social divides, aiming for collaborative efforts for the common good. “There are going to be things we disagree on. But I’d also like to make sure we pay attention to what we can work on together,” he remarked.
With anticipation building for his installation, Hicks is set to bring a fresh vision and a spirit of inclusivity to one of the largest archdioceses in the nation, embracing the diverse community that New York exemplifies.
