Cardinal Dolan’s Resignation and Potential Successor

Pope Leo XIV is anticipated to accept Cardinal Timothy Dolan’s resignation this week, potentially selecting a new bishop from Illinois to lead the Archdiocese of New York, according to sources.

Mr. Dolan has held the position of archbishop since 2009 and formally submitted his resignation letter earlier this year upon reaching the age of 75.

It is rumored that the pope may appoint Bishop Ron Hicks of Joliet, Illinois, as Dolan’s successor. This city is close to Chicago, where the pope hails from.

“I’ve heard it’s in consideration this week,” remarked Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino, who has a longstanding relationship with both Dolan and the archdiocese. “It’s going to happen; it’s just a question of timing.”

Astorino, known for launching the “Catholic Channel” on Sirius XM and co-hosting a show with Dolan, shared a report via social media stating, “Strong rumors that Pontifex will accept Cardinal Dolan’s resignation and appoint Bishop Ron Hicks of Joliet, Illinois.”

Other church officials have also indicated that a transition ceremony is likely imminent.

Representatives from the Archdiocese of New York and Bishop Hicks’ Diocese did not provide comments when approached.

Bishop Hicks, at 58, serves in the Diocese of Joliet, while Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Prevost, is from the South Side of Chicago.

Prevost made history in May as the first American pope following the passing of Pope Francis, being elected by the College of Cardinals.

Hicks, who spent his early years in South Holland, Illinois, was appointed by Pope Francis in July 2020 as the sixth bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Joliet and took on his responsibilities at the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus shortly thereafter.