September 8, 2026

Dear Friends,

Peace and greetings to you!

As we return from the Labor Day weekend, I realize it has been a while since I have updated you about my eye. On July 5, 2026, I experienced a detached retina. Immediately afterward, I underwent surgery that included a vitrectomy, two sutures, and an eight-week gas bubble inserted into my eye.

During that time, I was limited in activity, but I continued the work of the Archdiocese and remained faithful to my spiritual life through the Liturgy of the Hours, prayer, and Mass. I also had plenty of time to pray for all of you.

Now for the update. On Thursday, I visited my retina specialist and was informed that the surgery was successful, my eye is healing well, and the gas bubble has completely dissolved. This means I have been given the green light to return to flying, exercising, lying on my back, and showering without wearing goggles.

I am grateful for this news and look forward to continuing healing. Through it all, what sustained me most was your support and prayers. Thank you so much for them.  Let us continue to pray for each other.

May we all continue to see Christ clearly, our healer, our shepherd, and our Savior.  With good wishes, I ask God to bless you always.   

As I remain –

Sincerely Yours in Christ,
† Most Reverend Ronald Hicks
Archbishop of New York