In a surprising yet fitting development for one of New York City's most prominent religious figures, Cardinal Timothy Dolan has been appointed as co-lead of the New York Police Department's (NYPD) chaplains unit. The announcement, expected from Police Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, pairs the retired Archbishop of New York with Rev. A.R. Bernard, founder of the Christian Cultural Center in Brooklyn, to guide the department's spiritual support team.
Cardinal Dolan, aged 76, recently concluded over 16 years as head of the Archdiocese of New York, where he was succeeded by Bishop Ronald Hicks. Known for his approachable demeanor, media presence, and ability to bridge divides in a diverse city, Dolan has long been a fixture in New York's public life. His new role, which he will undertake part-time, marks a transition from leading one of the largest Catholic archdioceses in the United States to providing pastoral care directly to the men and women of the nation's largest police force.
The NYPD chaplains unit offers critical spiritual and emotional support to officers, their families, and sometimes victims or community members affected by incidents. Chaplains respond to crises, conduct blessings, offer counseling, and serve as a source of moral guidance in high-stress environments. With Dolan's appointment alongside Rev. Bernard—a respected leader in the Black church community—the unit gains leaders who represent key faith traditions in New York, potentially strengthening trust and outreach across the city's multicultural landscape.
Commissioner Tisch's decision highlights the ongoing need for robust chaplaincy services amid the challenges police officers face daily, from routine patrols to major emergencies. Sources describe Dolan and Bernard as "two of the most righteous people this city has ever known," praising their faith, compassion, and wisdom as qualities officers rely on in difficult moments.
This move comes at a time when Dolan, no longer bound by full-time archdiocesan duties, can dedicate his energies to hands-on ministry. His familiarity with first responders—built through years of attending memorials, blessings, and community events—positions him well for this service-oriented role. For many, it's a natural extension of his pastoral heart, now channeled toward those who protect and serve.
As New York continues to navigate complex social issues, having figures like Cardinal Dolan in supportive roles for law enforcement could foster greater dialogue between police and faith communities. The official installation is set to proceed soon, marking an exciting new chapter for both the cardinal and the NYPD.
Sources:
- The New York Times: "Tisch to Name Leaders of Catholic and Black Churches as N.Y.P.D. Chaplains" (February 9, 2026) - https://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/09/nyregion/nypd-chaplains-tisch-dolan-bernard.html
- New York Post: "Cardinal Timothy Dolan and Rev. A.R. Bernard to serve as NYPD co-chaplains: officials" (February 9, 2026) - https://nypost.com/2026/02/09/us-news/cardinal-timothy-dolan-and-rev-a-r-bernard-to-serve-as-nypd-co-chaplains-officials
- amNewYork: "Cardinal Timothy Dolan to co-chaplain NYPD, commissioner Tisch is expected to announce" - https://www.amny.com/lifestyle/faith/cardinal-timothy-dolan-chaplain-nypd
- PIX11: "Cardinal Dolan, Rev. Bernard to lead NYPD Chaplains Unit" - https://pix11.com/news/local-news/cardinal-dolan-rev-bernard-to-lead-nypd-chaplains-unit
- EWTN News: "Cardinal Dolan to co-lead New York Police Department's chaplains' unit" - https://www.ewtnnews.com/world/us/cardinal-dolan-to-be-named-co-lead-of-nypd-chaplain-unit
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