One Year After Pope Francis’ Death, Archbishop Hicks Says His Legacy Still Guides the Church
By: Mary Shovlain
NEW YORK – One year after the death of Pope Francis, Catholics around the world are reflecting on the legacy of a pope who reshaped how many understand the mission of the Church.
For Archbishop Ronald Hicks, the moment of Pope Francis’ passing remains vivid.
“It was a moment of almost disbelief,” Archbishop Hicks said in a recent interview. “It was a moment of shock and of sadness and… also just joy of what he brought to the Church.”
Hicks, who met Pope Francis several times over the years, recalled a personal encounter that left a lasting impression. Introduced as a priest who spoke Spanish, Hicks said the two immediately connected in conversation.
He said the pope had a remarkable ability to make each person feel seen and heard.
“He can have 10,000 people around him,” Hicks said, “and when you’re talking to him, he made you feel like he was only listening to you.”
Archive: Remembering Pope Francis
But for Hicks, remembering Pope Francis is not only about looking back.
He says the late pope’s legacy continues to shape the Church today, especially in how it approaches its mission in the world.
“He has given us a path of teaching, a way forward,” Hicks said.
Among those teachings, Hicks pointed to Pope Francis’ description of the Church as “not a museum, but a field hospital,” a call to be active, present, and engaged with people where they are.
Archive: Cardinal Dolan Reflects on Pope Francis’ Passing: ‘We’ve Lost a Father’
He also emphasized the pope’s call for a Church that listens.
“Listen with respect, listen to each other,” Hicks said. “Be a listening Church.”
Perhaps most personally, Hicks said he continues to carry one of Pope Francis’ most memorable images for priests and bishops.
“He really challenged us… to have the smell of the sheep,” Hicks said, explaining that it means being close to the people they serve.
Today, that message remains close at hand.
“On my desk, I have this little, tiny image of a sheep,” he said. “It just reminds me of his phrase, and this is how I want to live out being an archbishop here in the Archdiocese of New York.”