New archbishop installed in New York

Archbishop Ronald A. Hicks was installed as the 11th Archbishop of the Archdiocese of New York at a Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, formally assuming pastoral authority over one of the United States’ most prominent Catholic jurisdictions. The 58-year-old Chicago-area native and former Bishop of Joliet, Illinois—whose background includes missionary service in Latin America—was appointed by Pope Leo XIV to succeed Cardinal Timothy Dolan, whose resignation was accepted in December 2025.

The installation drew clergy, civic leaders and congregants from across the region. During the ceremony Hicks took the oath of office and was seated as archbishop; in his homily he stressed unity, service and compassion and outlined priorities including parish revitalization, outreach to the poor, migrants and marginalized groups, and efforts to rebuild trust amid ongoing challenges facing the Church. He said his approach will emphasize listening, transparency and pastoral engagement.

Vatican representatives conveyed the pope’s message of support, and attending church leaders praised Hicks’s pastoral experience and administrative background. Political and civic figures offered congratulations and expressed hopes for continued collaboration on education, social services and community programs administered by archdiocesan institutions.

Observers note that the archdiocese—responsible for hundreds of parishes, schools and charities—plays a major role in Catholic life and public engagement, making the new appointment significant nationally. Hicks’s installation is widely seen as reflecting continuity with previous leadership while aligning with papal emphases on inclusion and social justice.

The ceremony took place amid broader challenges for the U.S. Church, including debates over its public role, internal divisions and the legacy of abuse scandals; Hicks acknowledged the need for accountability and transparency as part of restoring confidence. Parishioners expressed cautious optimism that his leadership could reinvigorate parish life and better engage younger Catholics.

After the Mass Hicks greeted worshippers and clergy, calling his new role a humbling responsibility and pledging to work closely with priests, religious and laypeople. As he begins his tenure, attention will focus on how he navigates institutional reform, social outreach and the archdiocese’s mission in a complex, diverse urban setting.