Pope Leo XIV has appointed Ronald Hicks Jr. as the next Archbishop of New York, marking a significant leadership change in one of the Catholic Church’s most prominent dioceses. Hicks, who currently serves as the Bishop of Joliet, Illinois, is being recognized for his commitment to unifying the church while adhering closely to papal doctrine. His formal installation is scheduled for February 6, 2024.
The appointment follows the tenure of Cardinal Timothy Dolan, who is known for his outspoken nature and accessibility to the media. According to sources, the church aims to adopt a more reserved approach with Hicks. Thomas J. Reese, a Jesuit priest and senior analyst with Religion News Service, stated, “I think Hicks will be much more like Pope Leo, more careful what he says.” He added that Hicks is expected to focus on pastoral care rather than political issues during his initial year in office.
Hicks’s style contrasts sharply with Dolan’s, who has been characterized as spontaneous and media-friendly. Dolan recently stirred controversy by comparing slain activist Charlie Kirk to “a modern-day St. Paul” during an appearance on “Fox and Friends” in September. Hicks, in contrast, is likely to avoid divisive statements, maintaining a neutral stance on political matters while upholding the church’s traditional values.
Hicks’s brother, Rick Hicks, expressed confidence in his sibling’s leadership qualities. “He’s a workaholic. He likes to be educated on the issues. He’s relatable. He’s personable,” Rick stated, emphasizing his brother’s dedication to his role. Raised in a bi-religious household in the suburbs of Chicago, Hicks has maintained a strong connection to both Catholic and Lutheran traditions.
Hicks has a history of involvement in significant church operations, especially in Latin America. His commitment to humanitarian efforts is evident from his work as regional director for a Catholic charity in El Salvador, where he oversaw care for over 3,400 orphaned children from 2005 to 2010. As Bishop of Joliet since 2020, he has been responsible for approximately 525,000 Catholics across seven counties.
The New York archdiocese is home to roughly 2.5 million Catholics, encompassing The Bronx, Manhattan, Staten Island, and surrounding counties. Hicks’s approach aligns closely with papal teachings, particularly on contentious issues like abortion and assisted suicide. Following the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, Hicks celebrated the ruling but noted its limited impact in Illinois due to existing state laws.
His recent statements on Illinois legislation to legalize assisted suicide reflect his adherence to church doctrine. “Assisted suicide contradicts our moral teaching and threatens the well-being of the poor, the elderly, and those with disabilities,” Hicks remarked, echoing sentiments held by his predecessor.
Despite his serious theological commitments, Hicks also embraces cultural and recreational activities. He enjoys attending theater productions, with a particular fondness for Broadway shows. His brother noted Hicks’s appreciation for fine dining and cultural experiences, highlighting a well-rounded personality.
As Hicks prepares to lead the New York archdiocese, he faces the challenge of balancing traditional values with the diverse needs of a major metropolitan congregation. His academic background and commitment to treating individuals with dignity position him well to navigate these complexities while fostering unity within the church. As he embarks on this new chapter, many in the Catholic community are hopeful about the direction he will take the archdiocese.
