Joliet Bishop Ronald Hicks prepares for installation Mass, to lead New York Archdiocese
CHICAGO (WLS) -- Archbishop-designate Ronald Hicks will officially take over as Archbishop of New York on Friday.
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"I'm excited and I'm humbled to be installed as the 11th archbishop of the Archdiocese of New York. I look forward to gathering with you tonight and tomorrow in the spirit of prayer, gratitude and mission," Hicks said.
On Thursday, Hicks spoke from from St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York.
He is preparing to lead the largest in the country, serving more than 2 million Catholics.
Hicks is succeeding Cardinal Timothy Dolan, who submitted his resignation last year after turning 75, as required by church law.
"Preaching is something that I like in my ministry. And I hope as I developed my voice here in, in New York, that it's going to be one that reflects the gospel of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and his mission that he's giving to us," Hicks said.
Hicks will formally begin his leadership after an installation Mass on Friday at 1 p.m. C.T.
The installation ceremony is steeped in deep Catholic tradition and symbolism.
He will knock on the cathedral door three times, and will be greeted by Dolan before being taken to the bishop's throne, also known as a cathedra.
The carpet leading to the throne is changed from red to green in the days before the installation, highlighting Hicks' new status as an archbishop and not a cardinal.
On Thursday, Hicks will lead a daily prayer service called Vespers, which will also include a letter from fellow Chicagoan Pope Leo XIV.
SEE ALSO | Joliet Diocese holds special Mass, bids farewell to New York Archbishop-designate Ronald Hicks
Hicks was born in Harvey and grew up in South Holland.
Bishop Hicks has been a priest for over 30 years and led the St. Raymond Cathedral for the past five years.
Now, chosen by Pope Leo to lead one of the largest archdioceses in the country.
SEE ALSO | Joliet Bishop Ronald Hicks named by Pope Leo to lead New York Archdiocese
