A New Chapter for the Archdiocese of New York: Archbishop Ronald Hicks Takes the Helm
On December 18, Pope Leo XIV officially appointed Archbishop Ronald Hicks as the new Metropolitan Archbishop of New York, following the resignation of Cardinal Timothy Dolan. This significant transition marks a new direction for one of the largest dioceses in the United States, setting the stage for a renewed focus on pastoral care and healing.
A Laudable Transition
Archbishop Hicks’s journey to this prominent role is noteworthy. Prior to his appointment, he served as the Bishop of Joliet, Illinois, after a valuable tenure assisting Cardinal Blase Cupich as Auxiliary Bishop and Vicar General in the Archdiocese of Chicago. Hicks expresses gratitude for the Holy Father’s trust in him, emphasizing his commitment to following divine guidance in his leadership.
"My desire is to be a pastor with a shepherd’s heart," Hicks articulated in a recent interview. His commitment to engaging deeply with parishioners showcases a pastoral vision that echoes the sentiments of Pope Francis, who has famously urged Church leaders to have “the smell of the sheep.” Hicks’s goal is clear: he aims to walk alongside the faithful, sharing in their joys and sorrows, while fostering a lived experience of faith.
Prepared for Leadership
Hicks brings a wealth of experience from his years in Chicago, where he honed valuable governance and administrative skills. His tenure with Cardinal Cupich provided crucial insights into maintaining focus on the Church’s mission amid inevitable distractions. “What I learned is to keep our eye focused on God and what is God’s will,” he reflects, setting a tone of intention as he steps into his new role.
The commitment to staying mission-driven will be essential as Hicks navigates the complexities of the Archdiocese of New York, known for both its diversity and challenges.
Addressing Clerical Abuse
A pressing concern for Archbishop Hicks is the recent establishment of a $300 million fund aimed at compensating survivors of clerical sexual abuse. He acknowledges the gravity of this issue, stating, “This is a sin in the Church… a magnitude that we can’t just pretend is behind us.” Hicks emphasizes that true healing requires ongoing vigilance, accountability, and care for those who have suffered.
Having witnessed the foundational steps laid by Cardinal Joseph Bernardin in advocating for protocols to protect children, Hicks intends to build on this legacy. He is committed to ensuring that the Church takes the necessary actions to protect its most vulnerable members while supporting the healing process for survivors.
Vision for the Church in America
Growing up just blocks away from Pope Leo XIV in Chicago, Archbishop Hicks feels a personal and spiritual connection with the new pope’s vision for the Church. He aspires to cultivate an environment that radiates God’s light, peace, and healing in a world often characterized by division and strife. “I’m looking for ways of unity,” he states, reflecting his desire to foster collaboration within the Church and the broader community.
His hopes extend beyond the walls of the Church, seeking to bridge gaps and bring people together to work towards common goals. Hicks is excited about working collaboratively with Pope Leo XIV to realize shared priorities, fostering a spirit of cooperation that can influence not just the Archdiocese but the trajectory of the Church in the United States.
A Future Filled with Promise
With Archbishop Ronald Hicks at the helm, the Archdiocese of New York embarks on a new chapter marked by a commitment to healing, pastoral care, and unity. His shepherd’s heart, shaped by years of dedicated service, promises to guide the diocese through both its challenges and its opportunities, embodying the virtues of compassion, understanding, and faith. As he looks to the future, Hicks’s focus remains steadfast: to serve the people of God with humility and dedication, ensuring that the Church stands as a beacon of hope and healing in today’s complex world.