Archbishop of New York Ronald Hicks' Eye Still Vulnerable Following Surgery Due to Glass "bubble" - In Letter he Thanks Everyone for Prayers as he Resumes Ministry

In an August 7, 2026 update, Archbishop of New York Ronald A. Hicks expressed deep gratitude for the community's prayers following his July eye surgery for a detached retina, which involved a vitrectomy and the insertion of a gas bubble. He shared that his recovery is progressing well—marked by celebrating his first public Mass since the procedure at St. Patrick's Cathedral—though he remains unable to fly for roughly eight weeks while the gas bubble dissolves. While gradually resuming his public duties under medical guidance, Archbishop Hicks reflected on his recovery as a meaningful time for prayer and spiritual reflection, asking the faithful for their continued prayers as he keeps them in his own.FULL TEXT Message from Archbishop Hicks | Mensaje del Arzobispo Hicks
August 7, 2026
Dear Friends,

On July 11, I shared with you that I had undergone eye surgery for a detached retina in my left eye. Before anything else, I want to thank you for the many prayers that have been offered on my behalf and provide a brief update on my recovery.

The surgery involved a vitrectomy, two sutures to reattach the retina, and the insertion of a gas bubble in my eye to assist in the healing process. Thanks be to God, my eye and vision continue to heal from the surgery. I am deeply grateful for the excellent medical care I have received.

Following doctors' orders, I have been taking things slowly during my recovery. As many of you know, that is not always easy for me. The gas bubble will take approximately eight weeks to dissolve completely, and during that time I am unable to travel by airplane.

One of the highlights of my recovery came yesterday when I was able to celebrate my first public Mass since the surgery at St. Patrick's Cathedral for the profession of vows of the Sisters of Life. While I have been celebrating Mass in my private chapel, it was a great joy to be back at the main altar and to share that beautiful occasion with the Sisters of Life, their families, and friends.

Per my doctors' guidance, I will continue to add public Masses and other responsibilities to my schedule gradually and carefully. I look forward to being with you more frequently in the weeks ahead.

This period of recovery has also been a gift. It has provided more time than usual to sit quietly before the Lord in prayer. In the stillness, I have been reminded once again how much we all depend on God's grace each day. During these weeks, I have also been praying for you and your intentions, and will continue to do so.

Please, also, continue to pray for me. Your prayers are the greatest gift you can offer me at this time, and I am deeply grateful for each one.

May the Lord Jesus, who healed the sick, restored sight to the blind, and brought hope to those in need, bless you with light, peace, and love. As I remain --

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

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