In a significant move for the U.S. Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV has appointed Bishop Ronald Hicks of Joliet, Illinois, as the new archbishop of New York. This appointment, announced Thursday, comes as the archdiocese navigates complex relationships with the Trump administration and addresses its ongoing efforts to compensate victims of sexual abuse.
The appointment is notable not only because of its timing but also due to the challenges that lay ahead for Hicks, taking over from the influential and conservative Cardinal Timothy Dolan, who recently finalized a significant $300 million fund aimed at settling sexual abuse claims against the archdiocese.
Key Developments
- Bishop Ronald Hicks succeeds Cardinal Timothy Dolan, who is retiring at age 75.
- The archdiocese is implementing a $300 million fund to support sexual abuse victims.
- Hicks is expected to advocate for transparency and accountability within the church.
- His appointment signals a shift in the U.S. Catholic hierarchy, aligning with Pope Leo’s progressive stance on issues like immigration.
Full Report
A New Era for the Archdiocese
Bishop Hicks, age 58, addressed his new responsibilities during a news conference, emphasizing the church’s commitment to preventing abuse and supporting survivors. “As a church, we can never rest in our efforts to prevent abuse, to protect children and to care for survivors,” he stated. “It’s a challenging and painful journey, but we must move forward with accountability and transparency.”
Cardinal Dolan, who referred to Hicks as “an early Christmas gift for the Archdiocese,” expressed his support despite not knowing Hicks prior to the decision. He noted that their initial meetings have revealed the qualities that make Hicks a suitable successor.
Immigration Advocacy
Hicks has a history of advocating for immigrant rights, a stance that aligns with the current Vatican leadership. He previously endorsed a message from the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops that condemned immigration raids by the Trump administration, stressing solidarity and the church’s commitment to social justice.
A Personal Connection
Hicks and Pope Leo XIV share a similar background, both having grown up in Chicago. Their first meeting in 2024 solidified their connection, as Hicks noted the resonance of their shared experiences in shaping their leadership priorities.
Immediate Challenges Ahead
One of Hicks’ first responsibilities will be overseeing the settlement fund established by Dolan for victims of abuse, a situation compounded by a recent investigation in Illinois that identified numerous cases of clergy abuse spanning decades. The successful management of this fund is crucial for restoring trust within the archdiocese and addressing the thousands of allegations faced.
Context & Previous Events
Cardinal Timothy Dolan submitted his resignation earlier this year upon turning 75, which is a customary practice in the Catholic Church. As archbishop since 2009 and a prominent figure in the Catholic hierarchy, Dolan has been a vocal advocate on multiple social issues, including immigration and LGBT+ inclusion.
Hicks previously served as the bishop of Joliet since 2020 and was recognized for his efforts in enhancing child protection policies after his diocese faced scrutiny regarding past abuse cases. This appointment underlines a potential shift in the leadership style within the Catholic Church in the U.S., particularly as it responds to contemporary societal challenges.
