MIDTOWN, Manhattan (PIX11) — New York’s Roman Catholic Archdiocese is preparing for a changing of the guard.
After nearly 17 years, Cardinal Timothy Dolan is officially retiring from his post as archbishop. His successor, Bishop Ronald Hicks, balanced humor and humility while introducing himself right before the holidays last year.
“Let me begin, potentially with my first controversial statement, I’m a Cubs fan, and I love deep dish pizza,” Hicks said during his introduction.
“I love Jesus with my mind, heart, and soul. And I strive to love my neighbor as myself”
Hicks most recently served as bishop of Joliet, Illinois, just outside Chicago. The incoming archbishop has said he looks forward to his time in New York and that he especially loves the people from all over the world who call the region home.
More: Latest News from Around the Tri-State
The incoming bishop has also spent time with Cardinal Dolan. The two held mass together at Saint Patrick’s Cathedral back in December, soon after Hicks was announced as Dolan’s successor.
Hicks is Pope Leo’s pick to succeed Cardinal Dolan. Like the Pope, Hicks is from the Chicago area with a deep background in missionary work.
Cardinal Dolan led his final mass as New York archbishop at Saint Patrick’s Cathedral before a packed crowd of parishioners.
Pope Benedict named Dolan as archbishop back in February 2009, before elevating him to cardinal three years later. He came to New York after serving as archbishop of Milwaukee.
Per church law, Dolan filed his “request to retire” last year, a requirement for his post after reaching age 75. Dolan is set to turn 75 on Friday, when Hicks is formally installed as New York’s 11th archbishop.
In retirement, the cardinal says he will still keep busy with church duties.
“I would still have responsibilities as part of the college of cardinals. In fact, I was there in early January, which the Holy Father called all the cardinals over just for two days of consultation. And when we left, he said, I want you back. So I know we’re going back,” Dolan previously said.
There will be an installation eve vespers service on Thursday before Friday’s formal installation service, where a papal letter will be read appointing Hicks as archbishop, and he will take the archbishop’s chair. A number of faith leaders will also be present to greet and welcome Hicks as archbishop.
Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.