April 7, 2026
Dear Friends,
Christ has Risen. Indeed, He is Risen. Alleluia! Alleluia!!!
It seems that every parish has seen an increase of enthusiasm and fervor during the days of Holy Week, as record numbers have been received into the Church and grown in their sacramental life.
In this time of renewal, after observing, listening and a lot of prayer, I write to inform you of several changes in archdiocesan staff. These changes will take effect on April 7, 2026.
After more than seven years of dedication and pastoral sensitivity as Vicar General, Monsignor Joseph LaMorte, soon to be 76, will retire with residence at the O’Connor Pavilion of the Saint John Vianney Clergy Residence in Riverdale. Since my arrival I have heard from you about Monsignor LaMorte’s selfless service and personal kindness, both of which I have experienced, and for which I am deeply grateful. I have no doubt he will remain active for the Lord in his retirement.
Bishop Edmund Whalen will become the Vicar General, while remaining Episcopal Vicar for Manhattan with residence at St. Stephen the Martyr Clergy Residence on 29th Street. He has served very well in the role of Vicar for Clergy. With his gifted skills and true love for the Church, I am confident that he will also serve well in this new role as Vicar General.
Bishop Gerardo Colacicco will be Vicar for Clergy, and for the time being, will remain Episcopal Vicar for Putnam, Dutchess, Orange, Ulster, and Sullivan Counties. Father Ajith Wellington, currently administrator at St. Mary Parish in Wappingers Falls, will become pastor there. Bishop Colacicco and I will determine a residence for him that will facilitate his ministry to our priests and deacons. His prayerful, gentle, and sage appreciation for our shared ministry will provide the needed pastoral care for our clergy as we care for God’s people.
I feel blessed to be your Shepherd and to work in the Lord’s vineyard with you. Know of my continued prayers for you and our faith-filled Archdiocese of New York. May God bless you this Easter Season.
As I remain –
Sincerely Yours in Christ,
† Most Reverend Ronald Hicks
Archbishop of New York
09:54
On the April 28 episode of “All Good Things with Archbishop Hicks,” Archbishop Hicks and Monsignor James Vlaun discuss the growth of Catholicism in the United States, the recent Mass for high school seniors, and how to encourage young people to consider vocations.
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