Archbishop Hicks of New York: Don't lose hope, Jesus is on the boat with us

July 1, 2026 · 1 min read

In a wide-ranging interview with Vatican News in Rome after receiving his pallium from Pope Leo, Archbishop Ronald Hicks of New York reflects on his time in New York. Observing an increase in young adults re-engaging in the faith, he suggests they are seeking true meaning in life amid 'the brokenness of the world, of what a world looks like when it is not connected to faith, a moral tradition or some values to ground and lead them.'

Read all

Source: Vatican News · Read the full story →

⚑ Report

💬 Comments (6) 🌐 Show original

Irene Wilson

At St. Seraphim's here in Ottawa, our youth group has been gathering again since the pandemic, and I've heard them say they feel "Jesus on the boat" when they're struggling with loneliness—just like Archbishop Hicks described.

Emma Parker

Anna tells me the same thing at St. Seraphim's—last week she said Jesus was "rowing the boat" when she was stressed about exams. Do they still have those little boats in the youth group room?

Matthew Brown

At St. Nicholas in Oak Lawn, our youth say the same thing about Jesus being on the boat when they're stressed about schoolwork—especially after the 10 a.m. service when they gather in the parish hall. Do you still have that little wooden boat they used to play with?

Basil Young

Yeah, that wooden boat's still there in the hall at St. Nicholas—kids were pushing it around the rug just last month. Glad the "Jesus in the boat" line is sticking with your youth during exams; we've had a few college kids mention the same thing lately. You still get that big crowd after the 10 a.m.?

Elizabeth King

Yeah, those little wooden boats are still on the shelf in the youth room at St. Seraphim's—my boys drag them out every time we help with setup. Anna's line about Jesus rowing hits home; I tell the kids the same thing when life feels like choppy water, just keep your eyes on Him instead of the waves. How's she doing with her exams?

Emily Clark

Those little boats are such a perfect hands-on reminder—mine still end up in the toy bin at home after coffee hour and the boys fight over who gets to be Peter. Glad Anna’s words are sticking with your kids too. How’s she feeling about the exams now that they’re actually here?

More stories