Archdiocese of Toronto to Ordain Two Men to the Transitional Diaconate

Candidates take an important step in their journey toward priesthood through the ministry of service to God and the Church.

On September 26, 2026, the Archdiocese of Toronto will celebrate the Ordination to the Transitional Diaconate of two seminarians. Through the laying on of hands and prayer of ordination, the candidates will be ordained as deacons and begin exercising ministries including proclaiming the Gospel, preaching and serving the faithful as they prepare for priestly ordination.

Transitional deacons are seminarians preparing for the priesthood who ordinarily serve in this ministry during their final year prior to priestly ordination.

Mr. Francesco Rampino of St. Brigid’s, Toronto and Mr. Michael Berlin-Riga of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Toronto; seminarians of St. Augustine’s Seminary, will receive the first degree of the Sacrament of Holy Orders by the Most Rev. Robert Kasun, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Toronto at 10 a.m. on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at St. Michael’s Cathedral Basilica in downtown Toronto.

The ordinations represent an important moment in the life of the local Church and reflect ongoing vocational discernment among men who have responded to God's call to serve. The celebration highlights the mission of the Church to proclaim the Gospel and accompany the faithful throughout the Archdiocese of Toronto.

All are welcome to join the celebration in person at the cathedral (65 Bond St.) or view the livestream at https://www.stmichaelscathedral.com/live/ .

If you feel that God may be calling you to serve the Church through the priesthood or religious life, consider reaching out to the Archdiocese of Toronto’s Office of Vocations.

We continue to pray for Michael and Francesco and for all those currently in formation at our seminaries.  May the Lord continue to guide and strengthen them along the journey.