A chance encounter in Manhattan transformed a frustrating parking experience for a Staten Island mother into a cherished moment with the new Archbishop of New York. On February 18, 2026, Janine Materna, an attorney and new mother, found herself in an unexpected situation on Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of Lent in Western Christianity.
Materna had planned her visit to Manhattan with a parking reservation through SpotHero, a popular parking app. Upon arrival, however, she discovered that the garage was full. Frustrated but undeterred, she quickly secured a spot at a different garage nearby using her phone. As she made her way toward Fifth Avenue, fate intervened.
While walking, Materna came across Rev. Ronald A. Hicks, the recently installed 11th Archbishop of New York. Archbishop Hicks, who assumed his role earlier that month, oversees the Archdiocese of New York, which serves approximately 2.5 million Catholics across New York City and surrounding counties. He succeeded Cardinal Timothy Dolan in this significant position.
Recognizing the archbishop, Materna approached him outside what she believed to be a shelter. In a brief but meaningful exchange, she expressed her excitement at meeting him. Archbishop Hicks, described by Materna as “gracious,” not only gave her ashes for Ash Wednesday but also offered a blessing for her newborn daughter after she shared a photo of the baby.
Reflecting on the encounter, Materna shared her feelings on social media, saying, “I was so excited to see him. To make it even more special, he gave me my ashes. I even showed him a photo of baby Jolie Pauline, and he blessed her. What a moment I will never forget.”
The unexpected meeting changed Materna’s perspective on what initially felt like a setback. She remarked, “Funny how I went from frustrated about a full parking garage to feeling incredibly grateful. Sometimes the detours are the blessing.”
In a world often filled with challenges, Materna’s story serves as a reminder of how unforeseen circumstances can lead to meaningful connections and moments of joy. Her encounter with Archbishop Hicks not only brightened her day but also offered a fresh perspective on life’s unpredictability.
