New York has a fresh face at the helm of its Catholic community. Bishop Ronald A. Hicks, a 58-year-old from Illinois, is stepping into big shoes, replacing Cardinal Timothy Dolan. Hicks' background is quite similar to Pope Leo XIV's, which might explain why he was chosen for this role.

Hicks grew up near Chicago, just like the Pope. They even hung out in the same spots as kids. This shared history could make their working relationship smoother. Both men also have a soft spot for Latin America. Hicks spent time in El Salvador, working with orphans, which shaped his views on social justice.

Hicks' leadership style is different from Dolan's. He's not as flashy but is known for being a good listener and a decisive decision-maker. He's also great at managing big teams, which is useful for running a massive archdiocese like New York's.

However, Hicks isn't walking into an easy job. The New York Archdiocese is dealing with some serious issues, like sex abuse claims and financial struggles. They need to raise a whopping $300 million to compensate survivors and are even selling off properties to stay afloat.

On the bright side, Hicks is relatively young for an archbishop. This means he has plenty of time to leave his mark on New York's Catholic community. Plus, he'll be the face of Catholicism in the city as it gets its first Muslim mayor.


# **New York Welcomes New Leader for Catholic Community**

**Bishop Ronald A. Hicks** takes the helm of New York's Catholic community, replacing **Cardinal Timothy Dolan**.

## **A Familiar Background**
- **Age**: 58
- **Origin**: Illinois
- **Connection to Pope Leo XIV**: Shared childhood in Chicago
- **Shared Interest**: Strong ties to Latin America
- **Experience**: Worked with orphans in El Salvador, shaping his views on social justice

## **Leadership Style**
- **Strengths**:
  - Good listener
  - Decisive decision-maker
  - Skilled at managing large teams
- **Difference from Dolan**: Less flashy, more grounded

## **Challenges Ahead**
- **Sex Abuse Claims**: Ongoing investigations and compensations
- **Financial Struggles**: Need to raise **$300 million**
- **Property Sales**: Selling assets to stay afloat

## **Bright Spot**
- **Age Advantage**: Relatively young for an archbishop
- **Future Impact**: Time to leave a lasting mark
- **Historical Moment**: First Muslim mayor in New York



A New Leader for New York's Catholics: What to Expect from Bishop Hicks

A Familiar Background

Leadership Style

Challenges Ahead

Bright Spot

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