Archbishop-Designate Ronald Hicks Introduced at St. Patrick's Cathedral

Introduction of Archbishop-Designate Ronald Hicks

• 🤝 Cardinal Timothy Dolan expressed his privilege in introducing his successor, Archbishop-Designate Ronald Hicks, the current bishop of Joliet, Illinois.
• 🎁 Cardinal Dolan described the appointment by Pope Leo XIV as an "early Christmas gift" and shared his immediate appreciation and trust for Bishop Hicks.

Bishop Hicks's Background and Gratitude

• 🏙️ Bishop Hicks shared his affection for New York City, its culture, and its people, expressing excitement to return and stay.
• 👨‍👩‍👦 He spoke about his upbringing in South Holland, Illinois, with his parents, retired high school teachers, and noted his proximity to Pope Leo XIV's childhood home.
• 🙏 He conveyed heartfelt gratitude to Pope Leo XIV for the appointment and to Cardinal Kristoff Pierre, the apostolic nuncio, for his trust.
• 🎓 Bishop Hicks acknowledged his formation in the Archdiocese of Chicago under Cardinals Bernardine, George, and Cupich, expressing deep gratitude for their mentorship.

Ministry and Future Commitment

• ⚾ Acknowledging his identity as a Cubs fan and lover of deep-dish pizza, he humorously stated his intention to remain a Cubs fan but to start rooting for New York sports teams.
• 🗺️ He reflected on his five years as bishop of the Diocese of Joliet, expressing gratitude for the clergy, religious, and laity, and their shared work in catechizing and evangelizing.
• ❤️ Bishop Hicks expressed profound gratitude to Cardinal Timothy Dolan for his leadership and kindness, noting Dolan's generous support and magnanimous spirit.
• 🤝 He acknowledged the complex and challenging days ahead, including issues of life, faith, justice, peace, and healing, and committed to working with diverse faith and civic leaders.
• ⚖️ He committed to learning about the archdiocese's funds for resolving sexual abuse claims, emphasizing the church's ongoing efforts in preventing abuse, protecting children, and caring for survivors.
• 🗣️ Bishop Hicks stated his core identity: loving Jesus with his mind, heart, and soul, striving to love his neighbor as himself, and desiring to be obedient to the Holy Spirit and do God's will with a shepherd's heart.
• 🌟 He asked for prayers and support as they move forward together, surrendering his life and will to God with humility.