From rector in Rome to bishop in England, Stephen Wang embraces new mission of truth and love

Following Pope Leo XIV’s announcement in July, Father Stephen Wang became the sixth bishop of the Diocese of Arundel and Brighton on Oct. 19 at the Cathedral of Our Lady and St. Philip Howard in England.

Bishop Stephen Wang is ordained the sixth bishop of Arundel and Brighton in England on Oct. 19, 2026, after serving as rector of the Venerable English College in Rome. | Credit: ©Mazur/cbcew.org.uk

The milestone event at the cathedral in West Sussex gathered key figures across the community — from Archbishop Miguel Maury Buendía, the papal nuncio to Great Britain, to local priests, religious orders, and lay Catholics — alongside representatives from neighboring Christian churches as well as the Muslim, Jewish, and Hindu traditions, all standing together to mark this new chapter for the diocese.

Reflecting on his personal faith journey, Wang recalled converting to Catholicism decades prior in Harpenden, England. He shared how an icon given to him by a friend during his youth — inscribed with St. Paul’s reassurance that the Lord is faithful and will bring all things to fulfillment — has continually guided his vocation.

Stephen Wang lies prostrate during his ordination…