25 Facts About Archbishop Cardinal Dolan

Early Life and Education

Archbishop Cardinal Dolan has a fascinating background that shaped his path to becoming a prominent figure in the Catholic Church.

1. Born on February 6, 1950, in St. Louis, Missouri, Timothy Michael Dolan grew up in a devout Catholic family.
2. He attended Holy Infant Roman Catholic School in Ballwin, Missouri, where his faith began to take root.
3. Dolan entered the preparatory seminary at St. Louis Preparatory Seminary South at the age of 14.
4. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in philosophy from Cardinal Glennon College in St. Louis.
5. Dolan completed his priestly formation at the Pontifical North American College in Rome, where he earned a Licentiate of Sacred Theology.

Rise in the Church

Dolan's journey through the ranks of the Catholic Church is marked by significant milestones and achievements.

6. Ordained a priest on June 19, 1976, by Cardinal John Carberry.
7. He served as an associate pastor at Immacolata Parish in Richmond Heights, Missouri.
8. Dolan earned a doctorate in American Church History from The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C.
9. He served as secretary to the Apostolic Nunciature in Washington, D.C., from 1987 to 1992.
10. Dolan was appointed rector of the Pontifical North American College in Rome in 1994, a position he held for seven years.

Leadership Roles

Dolan's leadership skills have been recognized through various appointments and responsibilities.

11. Appointed Auxiliary Bishop of St. Louis by Pope John Paul II in 2001.
12. Became the Archbishop of Milwaukee in 2002, where he served until 2009.
13. In 2009, Pope Benedict XVI appointed Dolan as the Archbishop of New York.
14. Dolan was elevated to Cardinal by Pope Benedict XVI in a consistory on February 18, 2012.
15. He served as the president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops from 2010 to 2013.

Contributions and Influence

Cardinal Dolan has made significant contributions to the Church and society through his work and influence.

16. Known for his charismatic and approachable style, Dolan has been a prominent voice in the media.
17. He has authored several books, including "Called to Be Holy" and "To Whom Shall We Go?"
18. Dolan played a key role in the Archdiocese of New York's response to the sexual abuse crisis.
19. He has been an advocate for religious freedom, speaking out on issues affecting the Church and society.
20. Dolan has been involved in various charitable activities, including supporting Catholic education and healthcare.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond his clerical duties, Dolan has a rich personal life and diverse interests.

21. Dolan is known for his love of baseball, particularly his support for the St. Louis Cardinals.
22. He enjoys reading, with a particular interest in American history and biographies.
23. Dolan has a reputation for being a great storyteller, often sharing anecdotes from his life and ministry.
24. He is known for his sense of humor, which he uses to connect with people from all walks of life.
25. Despite his high-profile role, Dolan remains grounded and approachable, often seen mingling with parishioners and community members.

Final Thoughts on Cardinal Dolan

Cardinal Dolan's life is a tapestry of faith, leadership, and service. From his early days in Missouri to his influential role as Archbishop of New York, he's made a lasting impact on the Catholic Church and beyond. His dedication to education, interfaith dialogue, and social justice highlights his commitment to making the world a better place. Whether he's addressing global issues or comforting a parishioner, Dolan's actions speak volumes about his character. His influence extends beyond the pulpit, touching lives through his writings, speeches, and personal interactions. As we reflect on these 25 facts, it's clear that Cardinal Dolan's legacy is one of compassion, strength, and unwavering faith. His journey reminds us of the power of dedication and the difference one person can make.