New York Archbishop Urges Church to Deliver Peace and Healing Globally
Following the resignation of Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Pope Leo XIV appointed Archbishop Ronald Hicks as the new Metropolitan Archbishop of New York on December 18. Archbishop Hicks takes over one of the largest dioceses in the United States, having previously served as the Bishop of Joliet, Illinois, since September 2020.
Archbishop Ronald Hicks’ Vision for the Church
In a recent interview with Vatican News, Archbishop Hicks outlined his commitment to bring God’s peace and healing to the church and the community. He emphasized the importance of accompanying survivors of clerical sexual abuse as part of his pastoral mission.
Pastoral Priorities
Archbishop Hicks expressed his desire to lead with “a shepherd’s heart.” He aims to engage closely with parishioners, stating, “I look forward to meeting them and getting to know them.” His approach is inspired by Pope Francis’ call for clergy to have “the smell of the sheep,” which signifies a deep connection with the people they serve.
Experience in Church Governance
Hicks brings significant experience to his new role, having worked closely with Cardinal Blase Cupich in the Archdiocese of Chicago. This experience has provided him with essential skills in governance and administration, enabling him to focus on the Church’s mission.
Addressing Clerical Abuse
Recently, the Archdiocese of New York announced a $300 million fund to compensate survivors of clerical sexual abuse. Archbishop Hicks acknowledged the importance of maintaining rigorous protocols for preventing abuse and supporting survivors. Drawing from his background in Chicago, he reiterated that the Church must continuously prioritize these issues.
Looking Forward
Reflecting on his upbringing in Chicago, Hicks hopes to foster a Church that brings God’s light and healing to the world. He advocates for unity and collaboration, aiming to work closely with Pope Leo XIV to achieve common goals. Archbishop Hicks is prepared to embrace his new responsibilities in New York, dedicated to nurturing faith and delivering God’s message of love and peace.
In summary, Archbishop Ronald Hicks is committed to delivering peace and healing globally through the Church’s mission. His priorities focus on supporting survivors of abuse, engaging with parishioners, and fostering collaboration within the Church to address contemporary challenges.
