As reports swirl that Cardinal Timothy Dolan may soon step down as leader of the New York Archdiocese, reaction is already spilling out onto Fifth Avenue.
What You Need To Know
Cardinal Timothy Dolan submitted his resignation earlier this year upon reaching the age of 75, as church law requires
Multiple Catholic news outlets are reporting Bishop Ronald Hicks from Joliet, Illinois, could fill the spot and the announcement could come as soon as this week
The Vatican has not announced whether the resignation has been accepted or named a successor
“I am delighted to see him go,” Ann Malinowski said.
But for others, the possibility of Dolan’s departure is difficult to hear.
“Very upsetting. Big, big, fan of Dolan. Love Dolan,” Gerard Vinci said.
Dolan submitted his resignation earlier this year upon reaching the age of 75, as church law requires.
The Vatican has not announced whether that resignation has been accepted or named a successor.
Multiple Catholic news outlets are reporting that Bishop Ronald Hicks from Joliet, Illinois, could fill the spot and that the announcement could come as soon as this week.
“At 75, they need to retire unless there’s some urgent need for them to stay,” Anne Hetzel said.
For some Catholics outside Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, the moment represents an opportunity for change, both in leadership and direction.
“I’m for a liberal look at the Catholic Church. The church is stuck. They haven’t really moved forward,” Hetzel said.
Others say any transition should also recognize the legacy Dolan leaves behind.
“He was amazing, wonderful, irreplaceable. But if we’re getting someone new that is going to replace him and be just as wonderful as he is, it’s a wonderful thing,” Sharon Vinci said.
With the possibility of change ahead, Catholics say the conversation has already begun about what the future of the church in the city should look like.