New York archbishop says vision continues to improve following eye surgery

Archbishop of New York Ronald Hicks said Aug. 7 that he continues to recover well after undergoing surgery last month to repair a detached retina, thanking the faithful for their prayers and asking for continued patience as he gradually resumes public ministry.

In a pastoral letter, Hicks said the July 11 procedure included a vitrectomy, two sutures to reattach the retina, and the insertion of a gas bubble to aid healing. He said his eye and vision "continue to heal" and expressed gratitude for the medical care he has received.

Following his doctors' instructions, Hicks said he has been limiting his activities during recovery. Because the gas bubble is expected to take about eight weeks to dissolve completely, he remains unable to travel by airplane.

The archbishop celebrated his first public Mass since the surgery on Aug. 6 at St. Patrick's Cathedral for the profession of vows of new members of the Sisters of Life. While he has continued celebrating Mass privately throughout his recovery, Hicks said he was happy to start returning to public liturgies.

"While I have been celebrating Mass in my private chapel," he said, "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."

He added that he will continue to add public Masses and other responsibilities to his schedule gradually based on his doctors' guidance and hopes to be with the faithful more frequently in the coming weeks.

Reflecting on his recovery, Hicks said the slower pace has given him more time for prayer and reminded him of humanity's dependence on God's grace. He added that he has been praying for the faithful and requested continued prayers for his healing.