Pope Leo XIV has appointed Bishop Ronald Hicks of the Diocese of Joliet, Illinois, as the next archbishop of New York, following the formal resignation of Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the Vatican announced.

Cardinal Dolan, who turned 75 in February, submitted his resignation earlier this year in accordance with church law. He described the appointment of his successor as “an early Christmas gift.”

As archbishop-designate, Hicks will assume leadership of the Archdiocese of New York, home to approximately 2.8 million Catholics. He will become the 14th bishop and 11th archbishop to lead the historic see. Dolan praised Hicks as “immensely qualified” to take on the role.

“I accept this appointment, and I ask for your prayers and your support,” Hicks said during a news conference Thursday morning.

After Hicks’ remarks, Dolan leaned in to whisper encouragement, later telling him, “This is a great city, and you are going to love it.”

Dolan said he did not know Hicks personally before the Vatican selected him but quickly came to admire him. “In the last week, since I found out, I’ve gotten to know him, and I already love him and appreciate him and trust him,” Dolan said.

Reflecting on his departure, Dolan acknowledged mixed emotions. “Is there sadness in my heart? Sure, because I love the Archdiocese of New York,” he said. “That sadness is mitigated by the gift that this new archbishop already is.”

Hicks emphasized unity and openness as he begins his new role. “I think what you’re going to see in me is that I love all people,” he said, before adding lightheartedly, “I’m a Cubs fan and I love deep-dish pizza.”

Later Thursday afternoon, Hicks addressed congregants during a special Christmas Mass for employees at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, thanking New Yorkers for their warm welcome as he prepares to begin his tenure.