New York Archbishop Installed in Ceremony Steeped in Catholic Tradition

The installation of Archbishop Ronald Hicks featured rituals like knocking on cathedral doors and changing the color of the carpet to match his status.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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The historic installation of New York Archbishop Ronald Hicks on Friday featured fascinating rituals steeped in Catholic Church tradition. From knocking at the doors of historic St. Patrick's Cathedral to begin the ceremony to changing the color of the rug inside the majestic house of worship to match Hicks' status in the Church, the archdiocese left no stone unturned when it came to religious pomp and circumstance.

Why it matters

The installation of a new archbishop is a significant event for the Catholic Church, as it marks the transition of leadership and the continuation of centuries-old traditions. These rituals not only hold deep religious meaning, but also serve to solidify the new archbishop's authority and connection to the local community.

The details

The installation ceremony began with Hicks knocking on the 20,000-pound bronze front doors of St. Patrick's Cathedral three times with a small gold-colored tack hammer, representing the Holy Trinity. Once inside, the papal envoy read an ornately written proclamation from Pope Leo XIV formally announcing Hicks' ascension. Hicks was then led to the 'Cathedra,' the historic wooden chair reserved for the archbishop, which had its red carpet changed to green to match Hicks' status as an archbishop rather than a cardinal. Hicks' personal religious coat of arms, featuring symbols representing his Illinois roots and time in El Salvador, replaced that of his predecessor, Cardinal Timothy Dolan.

  • On Friday, February 6, 2026, the installation ceremony for Archbishop Ronald Hicks took place at St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York City.

The players

Ronald Hicks

The 58-year-old newly installed Archbishop of New York, who previously served as a bishop in Chicago.

Timothy Dolan

The former Archbishop of New York, who held the position for 17 years before retiring.

Enrique Salvo

The rector of St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York City.

Christophe Pierre

The papal envoy to the United States who read the proclamation from Pope Leo XIV announcing Hicks' installation.

Pope Leo XIV

The current Pope, who grew up near Chicago like the new Archbishop Hicks.

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What they’re saying

“I said goodbye to that chair. I said, 'Cathedra, you've been a great seat for 17 years.'”

— Timothy Dolan, Former Archbishop of New York (The Free Press)

The takeaway

The installation of a new Catholic archbishop is a ceremonial event steeped in centuries of tradition, with each ritual holding deep religious and symbolic meaning. These rituals not only mark the transition of leadership, but also serve to solidify the new archbishop's authority and connection to the local community.