CHICAGO (WLS) — On Friday, Ronald Hicks will be formally installed as the new Archbishop of New York, marking a significant transition in the leadership of the Archdiocese.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

“I’m both excited and humbled to step into the role as the 11th Archbishop of the Archdiocese of New York,” Hicks expressed. “I am eager to join you all this evening and tomorrow as we come together in prayer, gratitude, and mission.”

Hicks shared his thoughts on Thursday from the historic St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City, where he is preparing to lead the largest Catholic archdiocese in the United States, serving a community of over 2 million faithful.

He will be taking over from Cardinal Timothy Dolan, who submitted his resignation last year upon reaching the age of 75, as mandated by church regulations.

“Preaching is a passion of mine within my ministry,” Hicks stated. “I aspire to cultivate a voice here in New York that resonates with the teachings of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and the mission he entrusts us with.”

“Preaching is something that I like in my ministry. And I hope as I developed my voice here in, in New York, that it’s going to be one that reflects the gospel of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and his mission that he’s giving to us,” Hicks said.

Hicks will formally begin his leadership after an installation Mass on Friday at 1 p.m. C.T.

The installation ceremony is steeped in deep Catholic tradition and symbolism.

He will knock on the cathedral door three times, and will be greeted by Dolan before being taken to the bishop’s throne, also known as a cathedra.

The carpet leading to the throne is changed from red to green in the days before the installation, highlighting Hicks’ new status as an archbishop and not a cardinal.

On Thursday, Hicks will lead a daily prayer service called Vespers, which will also include a letter from fellow Chicagoan Pope Leo XIV.

Hicks was born in Harvey and grew up in South Holland.

Bishop Hicks has been a priest for over 30 years and led the St. Raymond Cathedral for the past five years.

Now, chosen by Pope Leo to lead one of the largest archdioceses in the country.