Transition to Archbishop-Designate Stephen A. Hero
Who is Archbishop-Designate Stephen A. Hero?
Archbishop-Designate Hero was born December 19, 1969, in Lachine, Québec, and moved to Edmonton at age ten. He was ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of Edmonton on June 29, 2000.
His ministry has included parish work, Vocations Director, Vice-Rector and then Rector of St. Joseph Seminary, and professor at Newman Theological College.In 2021, he was appointed Bishop of Prince Albert, where he has served since his episcopal ordination on June 11, 2021.
When will the new Archbishop officially take office?
Archbishop-Designate Hero will be formally installed as the eighth Archbishop on January 23, 2026 at St. Joseph’s Basilica in Edmonton. Until then, he holds the title Archbishop-Designate.
Do we currently have an Archbishop of Edmonton?
No. Until the installation, Rev. Paul Kavanagh continues as Archdiocesan Administrator. He has fulfilled this role since the installation of Archbishop Richard Smith as Archbishop of Vancouver on May 23.
Is there a Bishop of Prince Albert?
No. As of Nov. 21, Archbishop-Designate Hero becomes the Diocesan Administrator of the Diocese of Prince Albert.
Will there be events surrounding the installation of Archbishop-Designate Hero?
Yes. An installation committee has already been formed and planning is underway. More details will be shared via the People of Mission Bulletin and Clergy Flocknote.
How are bishops chosen?
The process is a confidential and follows a centuries-old discernment involving:
- The Apostolic Nuncio, who gathers information on potential candidates
- Consultation with clergy and laity
- Review by the Dicastery for Bishops
- Final approval and appointment by the Holy Father
Bishops are not chosen by seniority or popularity; they are selected for their suitability for a specific diocese. Large dioceses like Edmonton are typically entrusted to someone with previous episcopal experience.
Archbishop-Designate Hero’s motto: What does “Deus Solus” mean?
“God Alone,” drawn from Psalms 86:10, expresses the call to center one’s life entirely on God. It echoes the spiritual emphasis of St. Louis de Montfort and St. Teresa of Avila, reminding Christians to avoid placing anything else in God’s place.
Is his Coat of Arms changing?
Yes. The Coat of Arms above is being revised to now include the insignia of an Archbishop (ten tassels per side and the Archiepiscopal Cross).
The symbolism includes:
- Black field – human finitude and mystery
- Gold saltire cross – Christ’s saving death and resurrection; links to St. Stephen of Hungary and St. Andrew
- Two silver turtledoves – St. Joseph’s humility and offering
- Twelve gold stars – the Blessed Virgin Mary and the hope of glory
Overall, the Coat of Arms highlights grace, discipleship, and the centrality of God.
17. When will more information be available?
Updates will be provided regularly through:
- People of Mission Bulletin
- Clergy Flocknote
- Archdiocesan communications channels
