Hicks, New York’s Upcoming Archbishop, Calls for Border Rights and Due Process

Archbishop Robert Hicks, set to replace retired Cardinal Timothy Dolan as leader of the Archdiocese of New York, has emphasized the right of nations to defend their borders while upholding due process, Father Gerald Murray told Newsmax on Thursday.

“I was very pleased that he mentioned the rights of countries to defend their borders,” Murray, pastor of St. Joseph’s Church in New York City, said during an interview on “Newsline.” “Pope Leo had said the same thing recently, so there is concern, and I agree with that.”

Earlier Wednesday, Hicks stated it is vital for the United States to protect its borders while ensuring “human dignity, respect, treating each other well, and making sure anything connected to these policies is tied to due process.” Murray reiterated that “due process has to be involved in every law enforcement effort” and rejected the notion that Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents are “agents of evil,” clarifying that Hicks did not express such a view.

Murray also noted illegal immigration carries a “tremendous deleterious impact” on the nation, stressing the need for action. When discussing Hicks’ background, Murray highlighted their shared roots: “Both grew up on that suburban south side of Chicago.” While Pope Leo is 70 and Hicks is 58—different generations—they share a “similar dynamic,” according to Murray.

Murray confirmed Cardinal Dolan has announced plans to remain active in New York, continuing his role as an adopted New Yorker and participant in Catholic Church affairs. “Cardinal Dolan has said he will stay in the city,” Murray added. “He’s not a New York native originally but has become one, so he’ll be around and keep engaging with public life.”

Murray praised Dolan’s accessibility with media during his tenure and expressed hope that Hicks would maintain similar communication strategies: “If there’s any way to communicate with the modern scene, it’s through digital platforms,” Murray stated.