Pope Leo XIV to Appoint Bishop Ronald Hicks as New York Archbishop, Succeeding Cardinal Dolan
NEW YORK, N.Y. — Pope Leo XIV is expected to appoint Bishop Ronald Hicks of Joliet, Illinois, as the next archbishop of New York, replacing Cardinal Timothy Dolan, who submitted his mandatory retirement request earlier this year upon reaching the age of 75. Sources close to the archdiocese have indicated that the pope may accept Dolan’s resignation and announce Hicks’s appointment as soon as this week, marking a significant leadership transition just before the Christmas season.
Cardinal Dolan has served as New York’s archbishop since 2009, when Pope Benedict XVI appointed him following his tenure as archbishop of Milwaukee. During his 16 years in New York, Dolan became a prominent figure in American Catholicism, known for his pastoral leadership and public presence. His retirement follows the Catholic Church’s canonical requirement that bishops submit their resignation upon turning 75, a policy overseen by the Vatican’s Congregation for Bishops.
Bishop Ronald Hicks, 58, who was appointed bishop of Joliet by Pope Francis in 2020, is considered a leading candidate to succeed Dolan. Born in Harvey, Illinois, and raised in South Holland, Hicks’s Midwestern roots and pastoral experience have earned him respect within the church hierarchy. His connection to the Chicago area, where Pope Leo XIV also grew up, is seen as a factor that could strengthen his standing in the Vatican.
In a 2024 interview with WGN-TV, Hicks described Pope Leo XIV as “relatable,” noting, “He’s a normal guy from a normal neighborhood we grew up in,” highlighting a shared background that may have influenced the pontiff’s decision. The appointment of Hicks would mark a new chapter for the Archdiocese of New York, one of the largest and most influential in the United States.
The Archdiocese of New York faces several challenges, including addressing declining church attendance and navigating complex social issues in a diverse urban environment. Hicks’s leadership will be closely watched as he assumes responsibility for a community of millions and a network of parishes, schools, and charitable organizations.
Rob Astorino, Westchester County executive with ties to the archdiocese, acknowledged the rumors on social media, stating, “Strong rumors that @Pontifex has accepted the resignation of @CardinalDolan and will appoint Bishop Ron Hicks of Joliet, Illinois.”
Cardinal Dolan’s retirement and Hicks’s potential appointment come amid a period of transition for the Catholic Church in America, as it continues to respond to evolving pastoral needs and societal changes. The Vatican’s official announcement is anticipated soon, confirming the new archbishop’s role.
For more on the Catholic Church’s leadership and policies on episcopal retirement, visit the Vatican’s official site. Information on the Archdiocese of New York can be found at archny.org, and details about the Diocese of Joliet are available at dioceseofjoliet.org. For broader context on episcopal appointments, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops provides resources and updates.
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