Pope Leo XIV will name Bishop Hicks as the new archbishop of New York.

Archbishop Appointment in New York

Pope Leo XIV is set to appoint Bishop Ronald Hicks to take over as the new archbishop of New York, succeeding Cardinal Timothy Dolan. A person familiar with the situation indicated that this decision could come as soon as “this week.”

This development follows Cardinal Dolan’s submission of his resignation, which he offered upon reaching his 75th birthday in February.

“There are strong indications this week that Pope Leo may accept Cardinal Dolan’s resignation and appoint Bishop Ron Hicks as his successor,” a source revealed.

The timing of this transition is noteworthy, especially considering the significance of the upcoming Christmas season. It’s a big shift for one of the most notable Catholic archdioceses globally, with Cardinal Dolan having held the position since 2009, when he was appointed by Pope Benedict XVI after serving in Milwaukee.

Hicks, aged 58, has emerged as a compelling candidate, largely due to his roots in the Midwest and his growing reputation.

Born in Harvey, Illinois, and raised in Southern Holland, Hicks became the Bishop of Joliet following his appointment by Pope Francis in 2020. His connections to Illinois, particularly to the Chicago area, may reinforce the Pope’s influence.

After the 2024 election, Hicks remarked on Pope Leo, noting how relatable he found him. “He’s just a normal guy from a regular neighborhood like the one we grew up in,” he said.

There’s speculation around the challenges Hicks will face if confirmed, particularly regarding the ongoing struggles within the Archdiocese of New York. The archdiocese is dealing with serious issues, including allegations against over 1,300 clergy members regarding sexual abuse, necessitating the urgent gathering of about $300 million for settlements.

The archdiocese recently announced plans to provide compensation for victims. To address these financial burdens, it has made staffing reductions, cut its operating budget by 10%, and is selling off significant real estate holdings.

For instance, the land beneath the Lotte New York Palace Hotel was sold for $490 million, and the expected sale of its former headquarters could yield another $100 million.