Last Updated: January 12, 2026

Edmonton Catholic Schools joins our city’s Catholic community in celebrating the appointment of Bishop Stephen Hero as Archbishop-Designate of Edmonton. 

Born in 1969, Archbishop-Designate Hero spent most of his life living in Edmonton. In a letter to the faithful, he credits the belief of the priests and community with influencing and nurturing his faith and fostering his call to the priesthood.

He was ordained for the Archdiocese of Edmonton, taught at Newman Theological College, and served as rector of St. Joseph Seminary.

In 2021, the late Pope Francis appointed him Bishop of Prince Albert. Four years later, he returns home, where he is excited to begin a new chapter of service. 

“Although I have a knowledge of the people and history of the Archdiocese, I look forward to returning, listening, and discerning with you how the Holy Spirit is calling us to move forward together”

Watch the Installation Mass of Archbishop Stephen Hero

Celebrate this historic moment with the Archdiocese of Edmonton. Join us online for the Mass of Installation of His Grace, the Most Reverend Stephen Hero, as Archbishop of Edmonton.

Date: Friday, January 23, 2026 at 7 PM
Watch via livestream: https://youtube.com/live/QnRhFKB6Gac 

Due to limited seating, the Solemn Mass of Installation will be an invitation-only event.

Solemn Vespers with Archbishop-designate Stephen Hero

You are invited to attend Solemn Vespers, an evening prayer service in the Catholic tradition, led by Archbishop-designate Stephen Hero as he prepares to begin his ministry. This time of evening prayer offers a meaningful opportunity for worship, reflection, and fellowship.

Parking will be available across from the parish in the Commonwealth Stadium, any of the other available lots, street parking, or nearby LRT lots

Date: January 22, 2026 at 5 PM
Location: Santa Maria Goretti Parish (9110 110 Ave. NW)

Click here to learn more.

We look forward to welcoming Archbishop-Designate Stephen Hero into our schools in the new year and offer up this prayer:

Heavenly Father, You have called your servant, Bishop Stephen Hero, to be a shepherd of Your flock in the Catholic Archdiocese of Edmonton. Grant him a spirit of courage and right judgment, a spirit of knowledge and love, and to govern with fidelity those entrusted to his care. Fill he with wisdom, sanctity, and zeal, and make him a man whose heart beats in union with the Most Sacred Heart of Your Son.

By governing with fidelity, may he build Your Church as a sign of salvation for the world, filling the minds and hearts of your people with the truth of the Gospel and the power of the sacraments. Through the intercession of the Most Blessed Virgin Mary, and in the unity of the Holy Spirit, we ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.