Bishop Ronald Hicks says his installation as the next archbishop of New York will focus on gratitude, mission and collaboration with Pope Leo XIV.
“Tomorrow at the installation Mass, the themes of my homily are going to highlight gratitude and the mission of the church. You’re going to notice that I will reference a number of times Pope Leo XIV. I will strive always to be obedient and respectful to him and also collaborate with his vision,” Hicks said.
Hicks offered a preview ahead of Friday’s installation ceremony, when he will formally succeed Cardinal Timothy Dolan as leader of the Archdiocese of New York.
What You Need To Know
Bishop Ronald Hicks will be installed as the 11th archbishop of New York on Friday at St. Patrick’s Cathedral
He succeeds Cardinal Timothy Dolan, who has led the archdiocese since 2009
Hicks says his leadership will focus on gratitude, missionary discipleship and inclusion
Two key events mark the historic transition: a vespers ceremony Thursday evening and the installation Mass at 2 p.m. Friday, both at St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Hicks said the liturgies will be prayerful, holy and joyful — but not triumphant.
“I’m going to talk just about bringing a church who’s made up of missionary disciples who want to go out and make disciples. And also, to pass our faith on to the next generations,” Hicks said.
Catholics outside St. Patrick’s Cathedral on Thursday said that message resonates.
“We need more love, we need more peace,” said Barbara Sullivan, a parishioner. “More acceptance of other people.”
Hicks was appointed by Pope Leo XIV, with whom he shares several similarities. Both are natives of suburban Chicago and both speak fluent Spanish, having spent years ministering to the poor — Hicks in Central America and the pope in South America.
“I think I would like to see a more progressive pope. He’s been pretty good so far, so I’ve really liked him,” said Benjamin Magana, a Catholic visiting the cathedral.
Like Pope Leo, Hicks supports the inclusive vision of Catholicism championed by Pope Francis. On Thursday, he reiterated his intention to ensure the church reflects the diversity of New York City and remains welcoming.
“I’m excited and I’m humbled to be installed as the 11th archbishop of the Archdiocese of New York,” Hicks said.
Cardinal Dolan’s final mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral was celebrated Suday. Dolan was named archbishop in 2009, elevated to cardinal in 2012 and led the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops from 2010 to 2013.