Summary
On February 6, Pope Leo appointed Ronald A. Hicks as the new archbishop of New York, emphasizing his vision for a mission-driven Church that catechizes, evangelizes, and acts on faith to serve the poor and protect life. This appointment follows another significant move made by the pope just twenty-four days prior: assigning Manuel de Jesus Rodriguez as the new bishop of Palm Beach, Florida. The latter position is closely tied with Mar-a-Lago, President Donald Trump’s private estate that has become a focal point for immigration debates. Rodriguez, who was born in the Dominican Republic and ordained there before moving to Brooklyn, New York, aligns with Pope Leo’s progressive curia. He emphasizes cooperation with political leaders while advocating for social justice policies. Despite his conservative background, Rodriguez demonstrates his commitment by stating support for many of President Trump’s initiatives. Pope Leo is known for appointing individuals who possess both ecclesiastical and civil legal expertise. In this context, he entrusted the archbishop-elect with a $300 million victims’ compensation plan left from his predecessor Cardinal Timothy Dolan. Rounding out these appointments, Pope Robert F.Prevost, born in the suburbs of Chicago, also shares proximity to Pope Leo. They met for the first time only in 2024 when Prevost gave a talk in Illinois and briefly conversed with Hicks, finding him “clear, concise, creative, and finally humble.” This appointment signals an archbishop who will likely navigate both religious and secular challenges effectively.
Key Topics
Pope Leo, Catholic Church, Rodriguez
