A missionary bishop shaped by service in Latin America is set to lead one of the most powerful Catholic dioceses in the United States. Archbishop Ronald A. Hicks has been appointed by Pope Leo XIV as the new archbishop of New York, succeeding Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan as the leader of one of the most influential Catholic communities in the United States. His installation is scheduled for February 6, 2026, at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Manhattan — a moment that invites the faithful to reflect on the Church’s mission of mercy, service, and evangelization in today’s world.
The archdiocese of New York is a metropolitan city of great significance, encompassing a vibrant tapestry of parishes, schools, and ministries across the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island. At its heart stands St. Patrick’s Cathedral on 5th Avenue in New York, NY, a beacon of the Catholic faith.
As the new shepherd of this historic archdiocese, Archbishop Hicks assumes responsibility for guiding millions of Catholics through times of both challenge and hope.
Born on August 4, 1967, in Harvey, Illinois, Ronald Aldon Hicks grew up in the Chicago area, the same region that formed the early faith and identity of Pope Leo XIV. He was ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of Chicago in 1994 and served in a parish ministry.
In 2018, Fr. Hicks was appointed as auxiliary bishop of Chicago, and in 2020, he became the Bishop of Joliet, Illinois. Throughout his ministry, he has been recognized for his commitment to evangelization and dedication to works of mercy. This was especially evident during his years as a missionary with Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos in El Salvador.
Upon accepting the resignation of Cardinal Dolan, who has led the archdiocese faithfully for many years, Pope Leo XIV named Bishop Hicks as the new archbishop of New York. This appointment signals not only continuity but also a deepening of the United States Church’s missions, both social and spiritual.
At St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the epicenter of Catholic life in the archdiocese, Archbishop Hicks will preside over the Mass and guide the Church’s sacramental and administrative life.
Archbishop Hicks enters his role with a lifetime shaped by missionary service and pastoral sensitivity. His work in Latin America, including years in El Salvador leading a home for vulnerable children, reflects the Church’s call to accompany those most in need.
In accepting his appointment, he expressed profound humility and a deep desire to serve the people of New York, saying that he looks forward to walking alongside all the faithful, sharing in both joys and challenges.
The new archbishop of New York and Pope Leo XIV share more than a bond through the Church. They share a hometown spirit. Both grew up in the greater Chicago area and found their vocations shaped by the richness of American Catholic life. This shared heritage strengthens their commitment to a Church that listens to the people of God and calls them to be witnesses to the Gospel’s works of mercy.
As the faithful prepare to welcome Archbishop Hicks to the archdiocese of New York, especially at the sacred seat of St. Patrick’s Cathedral on 5th Avenue in New York, NY, the Church prays that his ministry will be marked by zeal for the Gospel.
In this moment of transition, we give thanks for the witness of Cardinal Dolan, and we embrace with hope the ministry of Archbishop Ronald A. Hicks, as he shepherds God’s people in New York with humility and love.
The installation of a new archbishop is a significant liturgical and pastoral moment in the life of a local Church. For the Archdiocese of New York, the installation of Archbishop Ronald A. Hicks will mark the formal beginning of his ministry as shepherd of one of the largest and most influential Catholic communities in the United States.
Date: February 6, 2026
Location: St. Patrick’s Cathedral
During the installation Mass, Archbishop Hicks will officially take possession of the cathedra—the bishop’s chair—which symbolizes his teaching authority and pastoral leadership within the archdiocese. The liturgy typically includes the reading of the papal decree of appointment and prayers for the new archbishop as he begins his service to the people of God.
Faithful from across the archdiocese and beyond are expected to gather for this historic celebration, joining in prayer as Archbishop Hicks begins his mission of guiding, teaching, and serving the Church in New York.
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