You’re exactly right—it is a historic day for the Archdiocese of New York. Today, Friday, February 6, 2026, is the official installation of Archbishop Ronald A. Hicks at St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
He is succeeding Cardinal Timothy Dolan, who led the archdiocese for 16 years. Cardinal Dolan submitted his resignation last February upon turning 75, as required by canon law, and it was officially accepted by Pope Leo XIV this past December.
Who is Archbishop Ronald Hicks?
* Background: A 58-year-old Chicago native. Before this appointment, he served as the Bishop of the Diocese of Joliet, Illinois.
* Style & Vision: He is known for a pastoral, "missionary" approach. He has emphasized evangelization and "building bridges," often echoing the inclusive vision of Pope Leo XIV.
* Global Experience: He spent five years in El Salvador leading an orphanage program, giving him a strong connection to the Latino community and issues regarding social justice and immigration.
* The "Pizza Debate": In a touch of wit during his introduction, he acknowledged his Chicago roots by admitting he’s a Cubs fan who loves deep-dish pizza, though he promised to start rooting for New York teams (and admitted he already loves New York pizza).
What’s happening today?
The installation ceremony is a major event involving:
* The Ritual Knock: Archbishop Hicks traditionally knocks on the doors of St. Patrick’s three times to be admitted by the community.
* The Apostolic Letter: The Papal Nuncio (the Pope's representative) reads the official mandate from the Vatican.
* The Cathedra: Archbishop Hicks officially "takes possession" of the archdiocese by sitting in the cathedra (the bishop's chair).
It’s a massive shift for the 2.5 million Catholics in the region, marking the end of the "Dolan era" and the start of a new chapter focused on re-engaging the next generation of the Church.
Would you like me to find more details on his specific plans for the New York parishes or perhaps a summary of Cardinal Dolan’s farewell remarks?
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