Ronald Hicks Installed as New Archbishop of New York at St. Patrick's Cathedral

Installation of Archbishop Ronald Hicks

• ⛪️ A historic day for the Catholic Church in New York and America as Ronald Hicks is installed as the new Archbishop of New York.
• 🚪 The ceremony begins with Archbishop-Designate Hicks knocking on the cathedral door, where he is greeted by Cardinal Timothy Dolan.
• 📜 A letter from Pope Leo will be read and displayed, signifying the official transfer of leadership.

The New Archbishop's Background and Vision

• 👨‍💼 The Most Reverend Ronald Alden Hicks, 58, is in his 31st year as a priest and has led the Diocese of Joliet, Illinois, for five years.
• 🧠 He acknowledges the complexities and challenges of leading the Archdiocese of New York, while also recognizing the abundance of joy and blessings.
• 🗣️ Hicks, who speaks Spanish fluently, spent five years doing mission work in Central America and has a deep love for Latino culture.

Key Responsibilities and Challenges

• 💰 As CEO of an entity spending hundreds of millions annually on ministry, schools, and social services, Hicks faces significant financial and administrative duties.
• ⚖️ Immediate priorities include managing a proposed $300 million settlement for victims of sex abuse and aiming to boost seminary enrollment.
• 🤝 His immediate focus is serving as the shepherd to over 2 million Catholics, which will involve visiting parishes and listening.

Farewell to Cardinal Dolan

• 👋 The installation also marks a farewell to Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Archbishop since April 2009 and a Cardinal since 2012.
• 🎂 Cardinal Dolan celebrates his 76th birthday on the day of the installation.
• 🗓️ Dolan hosted Pope Francis in 2015 and became a significant figure in New York's religious and civic life.