New York’s Catholic faithful welcomed a call for an open and outward-facing church as Ronald A. Hicks formally assumed his role as the city’s new archbishop on February 6, 2026. The installation of Archbishop Hicks marks a significant moment for the Archdiocese of New York, one of the largest in the world, and comes as the Catholic Church globally seeks to revitalize its outreach and relevance.
During a solemn ceremony at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Hicks urged the church to boldly “go out to the margins of society” and avoid becoming an insular club. “The mission is before us,” he said, adding that the church exists to “serve all people, burning with faith, hope, and love in the name of Jesus Christ.”
Going to the Margins of Society
Pope Leo XIV appointed Hicks as the 11th Catholic Archbishop of New York in mid-December 2025. The 58-year-old succeeds Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan, who retired after 17 years of service due to age. Dolan, a prominent voice in American Catholicism, received a standing ovation from the congregation during the Mass on February 6, 2026, which also marked his 76th birthday.
The Archdiocese of New York encompasses three New York City boroughs and seven surrounding counties. With 2.8 million Catholics, it is one of the most significant archdioceses in the world. New York archbishops are frequently elevated to the rank of cardinal.
International Experience
Prior to his appointment, the new archbishop served as the Diocesan Bishop of Joliet, Illinois. Archbishop Hicks brings international experience to his new role, having spent several years leading a church aid organization for orphans in El Salvador. This experience, along with the cultural diversity of the New York Archdiocese, was reflected in the installation ceremony, which was conducted in both English and Spanish.
Archbishop Hicks outlined his priorities, emphasizing social justice, the protection of children, support for abuse survivors, advocacy for the poor and migrants, and interreligious dialogue. He stated the church must build bridges, listen, and foster unity, striving to “be a church that gives food to the hungry, heals wounds, and respects the dignity of every person.”
Archbishop Hicks surprised attendees with cultural references during his address. He repeatedly invoked music as a unifying force, quoting lyrics from Billy Joel, Alicia Keys, and Frank Sinatra, as well as Spanish-language classics. A reference to “Un verano en Nueva York” by the Puerto Rican salsa ensemble El Gran Combo – a song recently sampled by pop star Bad Bunny – drew particular attention.
(kap – pr)
