URGENT UPDATE: Pope Leo XIV has just announced a pivotal appointment, naming Bishop Ronald Hicks as the new archbishop of New York, one of the largest archdioceses in the United States. This decision, made on October 12, 2023, is set to reshape the future of the archdiocese as it faces significant challenges, including ongoing relations with the current administration and a pressing sexual abuse settlement fund.
Bishop Hicks, previously serving as the bishop of Joliet, Illinois, assumes leadership from the retiring Cardinal Timothy Dolan, who finalized a $300 million fund to compensate victims of sexual abuse last week. Dolan’s departure comes after he submitted his resignation upon turning 75 in February, a standard practice among bishops. However, the Vatican strategically delayed this announcement until essential governance matters were resolved, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
As the archbishop of New York, Hicks will oversee approximately 2.5 million Catholics across Manhattan, the Bronx, Staten Island, and surrounding counties. His appointment marks a significant shift in the U.S. Catholic Church, especially under the leadership of the first American pope, Leo XIV. Known for their shared Chicago roots, Hicks and Leo have already demonstrated a willingness to address contentious issues like immigration, with Hicks previously endorsing a statement condemning immigration raids conducted by the Trump administration.
Rev. Eusebius Martis praised Hicks, stating, “Taking a new position as archbishop of New York is an enormous responsibility, but I can honestly say that Bishop Hicks is up to the task.” This sentiment underscores the importance of Hicks’ leadership during a time of crisis and transformation within the church.
Hicks, 58, has a robust background in social justice and community service, having worked for five years in El Salvador managing church-run orphanage programs. This experience resonates with the current challenges he will face as archbishop, particularly in implementing the newly established abuse compensation fund. The archdiocese aims to cover settlements for nearly 1,300 outstanding abuse claims, an issue that has plagued the Catholic Church in recent years.
The transition from Dolan, a prominent conservative figure in the U.S. Catholic hierarchy, to Hicks signifies a new chapter in the archdiocese’s approach to addressing past abuses and fostering community relations. Dolan has been a vocal leader, engaging with both conservative and progressive issues, including outreach to LGBTQ+ Catholics. His tenure has been marked by high-profile events, including hosting the Al Smith dinner, which serves as a platform for political candidates across party lines.
As Hicks prepares to take on his new responsibilities, he faces the immediate task of overseeing the implementation of the abuse settlement plan. Under his leadership, the archdiocese will need to navigate the complexities of reducing its budget and possibly selling off assets to fund the settlements, a process that is both financially and emotionally charged for the community.
The challenges ahead are significant, but Hicks’ experience and commitment to social justice could lead to a renewed focus on healing and reform within the archdiocese. With a strong foundation in pastoral care and community outreach, he is poised to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for all Catholics in New York.
As this story develops, observers will be keenly watching how Hicks addresses the ongoing issues of abuse claims and the church’s relationship with the broader community, particularly in areas impacted by immigration policies. This urgent appointment not only signals a change in leadership but also reflects the evolving landscape of the Catholic Church in America.
Stay tuned for more updates on Bishop Ronald Hicks as he embarks on this critical role within one of the most influential archdioceses in the nation.
