Archbishop Ronald Hicks Discusses Faith in New York
Archbishop Ronald Hicks of New York, following the reception of his pallium from the Holy Father, shared insights about his mission and the state of faith in New York during an extensive interview with Vatican News in R…
Archbishop Ronald Hicks of New York, following the reception of his pallium from the Holy Father, shared insights about his mission and the state of faith in New York during an extensive interview with Vatican News in Rome.
Reflecting on his experiences since arriving in the city, Archbishop Hicks noted a significant re-engagement of young adults with the Church. He remarked on their search for genuine meaning amid a world often described as broken and disconnected from faith. He stated, 'They want to make the world a better place and they can turn to the Church that knows how to put faith into action, and to serve and to volunteer. It gives them a structure for it.'
During the interview, the Archbishop emphasized the importance of a Church that is not self-referential but rather one that actively serves others. He stated, 'That’s the type of shepherd that I am striving to be.' The Archbishop also highlighted his personal journey and the impact that various individuals had on his vocation.
Archbishop Hicks discussed the varied reactions he received from New Yorkers, noting that their warm welcome surpassed the stereotype of a tough city. He expressed gratitude for the connections he made, recounting a memorable encounter when he bought a slice of pizza and the person behind the counter recognized him and welcomed him to the city. This openness reflects a microcosm of the diverse Archdiocese of New York, where, as he put it, 'Here comes everybody.'
Addressing the challenges facing the Archdiocese, Archbishop Hicks acknowledged that significant difficulties exist, but he also sees opportunities, particularly in fostering faith among the youth. He intends to focus on formation and evangelization to guide these young adults toward a deeper relationship with God. Citing the Holy Father's encouragement for unity among Church leaders, Hicks reiterated the need for a collaborative approach in responding to the community's needs.
