PRESS RELEASE - December 16, 2005

Archbishop to ordain Stephen Liang to Transitional Diaconate

During Mass on Saturday, December 17th, at 4:30 p.m., at St. Patricks Basilica, 281 Nepean St., Ottawa Archbishop Marcel Gervais will ordain Stephen Liang to the transitional diaconate for the Archdiocese.

Those preparing to be ordained to the priesthood are ordained deacons for a time of training before being ordained to the priesthood. The Transitional Diaconate is so named to distinguish it from the ordination to the Permanent Diaconate. During the Second Vatican Council, the permanent diaconate was re-established as a particular ministry and provides an extraordinary opportunity for men, married or single, to serve the community.

Stephen Liang was born in Indonesia on April 18, 1945. He came to Canada in 1963. He graduated from the University of Toronto as an M.D. and later served as a medical officer for the Canadian Armed forces. He served in the Canadian Armed Forces for 25 years before deciding to study for the priesthood. He has been studying at St. Decemberine Seminary in Toronto.

All are welcomed to this event after which there will be a light lunch and an opportunity to meet Deacon Stephen Liang

For further information: Guy Lajoie, 738-5025, ext. 238