Retiring New York Cardinal Dolan Reflects on His Legacy

Cardinal Dolan says he is now a 'spiritual granddad' to the people of New York.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The now-retired archbishop of New York, Cardinal Timothy Dolan, shared his thoughts on a range of topics in an interview, including the 250th anniversary of the U.S., immigration enforcement, Catholic politicians, and the dignity of human life. Dolan said he will continue to serve the city as co-chaplain of the New York Police Department alongside an evangelical pastor.

Why it matters

Cardinal Dolan's reflections provide insight into the role of the Catholic Church in New York City and its relationship with local government and politics. His comments on issues like immigration, assisted suicide, and the alignment of Catholic and American values offer a unique perspective from a prominent religious leader.

The details

In the interview, Cardinal Dolan discussed his plans to serve as co-chaplain of the New York Police Department with an evangelical pastor, his views on the new mayor of New York City, and his efforts to work with other religious leaders like Rev. Franklin Graham to protect religious freedom and church attendance. Dolan also expressed disappointment that the new mayor did not attend the installation of Dolan's successor, Archbishop Ronald Hicks, and did not invite Dolan to his own inauguration.

  • Cardinal Dolan retired from his role as archbishop of New York.

The players

Cardinal Timothy Dolan

The now-retired archbishop of New York who served in the role for over a decade.

Archbishop Ronald Hicks

The new archbishop of New York who succeeded Cardinal Dolan.

Zohran Mamdani

The new mayor of New York City.

Rev. A.R. Bernard

An evangelical pastor from the African American community who will serve as co-chaplain of the New York Police Department alongside Cardinal Dolan.

Rev. Franklin Graham

A fellow member of the U.S. Religious Liberty Commission and son of the late evangelist Rev. Billy Graham, who teamed up with Cardinal Dolan on the issue of immigration enforcement operations.

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What they’re saying

“I'm your spiritual granddad,”

— Cardinal Timothy Dolan (EWTN News In Depth)

“I admire him immensely," and "he's a real gem.”

— Cardinal Timothy Dolan (EWTN News In Depth)

“We're not going to do that here,”

— Director of ICE in New York (EWTN News In Depth)

What’s next

Cardinal Dolan will continue to serve the city as co-chaplain of the New York Police Department alongside Rev. A.R. Bernard.

The takeaway

Cardinal Dolan's retirement marks the end of an era, but his legacy and influence will continue to shape the relationship between the Catholic Church and the city of New York. His comments highlight the ongoing tensions between religious values and political realities, as well as the Church's efforts to navigate its role in an increasingly diverse and secularized society.