New Influential Leader for New York's Catholic Community: A Profile Similar to Pope Leo

Bishop Ronald A. Hicks has assumed the role of Archbishop for the Archdiocese of New York.

VATICAN CITY — Bishop Ronald A. Hicks of Joliet, hailing from Illinois, has been appointed by Pope Leo XIV to oversee the prominent New York Archdiocese. He takes over from Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the erstwhile bishop who has overseen New York's vibrant Catholic population of 2.8 million for the past sixteen years.

Cardinal Dolan submitted his resignation, adhering to Vatican norms, as he turned 75 this past February.

Much like Pope Leo, Hicks, aged 58, deeply aligns himself with Pope Francis' inclusive mission, focusing intently on social equity and justice.

Born in 1967 in Harvey, Illinois, Hicks shares a hometown legacy with Leo, being raised in South Holland near Leo's Chicago-area roots.

Known for his expansive persona, Cardinal Dolan sometimes encountered criticism for his envisaged backing of the Trump administration, which clashed with many New York residents’ democratic leanings.

"Ronald Hicks presents a different persona compared to Dolan," quoted author Christopher White. "He brings a readiness to learn and a grounded seriousness that will benefit him locally, supported by an approachable nature."

In a conversation on Chicago's WGN network, Hicks recognized the uncanny parallels between his and Leo's biographies. "Our early lives intersected at the same local haunts and public spaces in our community," he reflected, adding to the personal connection.

White noted these common life experiences, suggesting, "It's a personal link, as Leo sees shades of his journey in Hicks and vice versa."

Equally, Hicks, like Leo, attributes much of his pastoral drive to his significant time spent in Latin America. During 2005 to 2010, Hicks was engaged in El Salvador managing Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos, a charitable organization for vulnerable children.

White, who serves as a senior fellow of the Initiative on Catholic Social Thought at Georgetown University, commented, "Their time in Latin America reinforced their devotion to aiding disadvantaged communities, which is an expected benchmark for Leo when selecting church leaders influenced by the social mission espoused by Francis."

Appointed in 2010, Hicks was entrusted with the formative role of dean at Mundelein Seminary, Illinois.

The seminary's rector, Rev. John Kartje, who collaborated with Hicks, praised his leadership for its distinctive commitment to addressing the needs of the underserved while balancing high-level administrative tasks.

Hicks' tenure as vicar general for the Chicago Archdiocese further showcased his adept skills under pressure, overseeing decisive and challenging matters.

In 2018, Hicks ascended as an auxiliary bishop in Chicago, with his ensuing New York leadership move seen to reflect Cardinal Blase Cupich's influence, a notable ally of the Pope.

Upon his 2020 appointment by the Pope, Hicks managed the Diocese of Joliet, a significant responsibility with 520,000 Catholics.

Hicks' relatively youthful vigor signals the potential for long-term impact within the influential New York Archdiocese which engages deeply in both city and broader U.S. politics. This role seamlessly integrates with the city's diverse cultural landscape, just as its first Muslim mayor, Zohran Mamdani, steps into office.

Typically, this New York archbishop role is a precursor for earning the prestigious cardinal's red hat.

The position carries its own set of challenges, as it navigates financial obligations requiring $300 million for abuse survivor settlements, alongside managing parish closures and asset liquidations to stabilize operations.

This article reflects a collaborative effort from NPR and Religion News Service.