UPDATE: In a significant shake-up for the Catholic community, Pope Leo XIV has just appointed Ronald Hicks, currently the bishop of Joliet, Illinois, as the new archbishop of New York, following the resignation of Cardinal Timothy Dolan. This announcement was made on Thursday, marking a pivotal moment for more than two million Roman Catholics in the region.
Dolan’s resignation comes as part of a customary practice upon reaching the age of 75, which he officially submitted on his birthday in February. His 16-year tenure as archbishop positioned him as one of the most prominent religious figures in the United States, particularly as he navigated challenges such as declining attendance and the fallout from a sexual abuse scandal.
The change in leadership comes at a critical time for the Archdiocese of New York. Just days ago, it was revealed that the archdiocese plans to sell the land beneath the Palace Hotel in Manhattan for a staggering $490 million. This sale is intended to help establish a $300 million fund aimed at compensating over 1,000 survivors of sexual abuse by church officials, a move that underscores the urgent need for accountability and justice within the church.
Ronald Hicks, who is 58 years old, has been the bishop of Joliet since 2020, after being ordained in 1994 for the Archdiocese of Chicago. Hicks has also dedicated five years as a missionary in El Salvador, bringing a wealth of experience to his new role. His appointment marks a fundamental shift in leadership for the hundreds of churches under the New York Archdiocese.
During his time, Dolan made headlines for his conservative stance on various issues, including his opposition to legislation supporting physician-assisted death and efforts to strengthen abortion rights laws in New York, which Governor Kathy Hochul is expected to sign into law.
Dolan’s legacy includes overseeing the renovation of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a symbol of faith and history in Midtown Manhattan that attracts visitors globally. His approach to managing the archdiocese involved difficult decisions, including closing schools and consolidating parishes in response to a decline in church attendance.
As the church embarks on this new chapter under Hicks, the community watches closely for the impact of these leadership changes and the ongoing efforts to address the critical issues surrounding abuse claims.
This story is developing and will continue to be updated as more information becomes available.
