(ZENIT News / New York, 02.20. 2026).- During her 2026 State of the New York Police Department (NYPD) address, Commissioner Jessica Tisch announced the appointment of Cardinal Timothy Dolan as the NYPD’s Deputy Chaplain. Tisch emphasized the historical link between faith, community, and police officers in serving the city.
Cardinal Dolan’s resignation as Archbishop of New York was accepted by Pope Leo XIV on December 18, 2025. His appointment to the New York Police Department comes days after the installation of the new Archbishop of New York City, Ronald Hicks, which took place on February 6. A statement from the Archdiocese, dated February 9, confirms the Cardinal’s appointment.
His Eminence Timothy Michael Dolan was born in Saint Louis in 1950 and was ordained a priest in 1976. He served as President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops from 2010 to 2013. His name was mentioned as a possible candidate for Pope in the 2013 Conclave.
Commissioner Tisch, who is Jewish, said she chose Cardinal Timothy Dolan and Reverend A.R. Bernard as co-chaplains because they are known for their honesty and integrity: «Cardinal Timothy Dolan and Reverend A.R. Bernard are two of the most upright people this city has ever known. They are two men of incredible faith whose lives and leadership embody the moral clarity, compassion, and wisdom that our officers rely on in their most difficult moments.»
Dolan and Bernard will replace Rabbi Alvin Kass, senior chaplain for many years, who died in October 2025.
Tisch praised both religious leaders for helping «shape the spiritual life of this city through leadership that reaches far beyond their pulpits.» And she commented: «For over a century, our Chaplain Unit has ensured that our officers never have to bear the enormous weight of their work alone. They have helped them find their most special side and rediscover the vocation that lies at the heart of this work.»
And she noted: «Their decision to serve the New York Police Department speaks to the enduring connection between faith and law enforcement, and to the long-standing place of the lead chaplain’s role in the lives of the men and women who wear the badge.»
