Ed and Marie Stelmach Honoured with the 2025 Kevin Carr Christian Leadership Award

The Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of Edmonton joins Newman Theological College in celebrating the recipients of the 2025 Kevin Carr Christian Leadership Award – Ed and Marie Stelmach. The award, presented annually by Newman Theological College (NTC), honours those whose Christian leadership exemplifies the spirit of the late Dr. Kevin Carr, former Chancellor of NTC, whose life and work were rooted in faith, service, and education.

About the Kevin Carr Christian Leadership Award

Established in 2014, the Kevin Carr Christian Leadership Award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional Christian witness in their personal and professional lives. Recipients embody the values of faith, humility, and service that were hallmarks of Kevin Carr’s legacy as a Catholic educator and leader. The award celebrates those who live out the Gospel through integrity, compassion, and dedication to community and Church.

Honouring Ed and Marie Stelmach

This year’s honourees, Ed and Marie Stelmach, exemplify those very values through a lifetime of humble service, leadership, and faith.

A devoted Catholic couple of Ukrainian heritage, Ed and Marie grew up on family farms in Alberta, where faith, hard work, and care for others shaped their lives. Throughout Ed’s distinguished career in public service, including his tenure as the 13th Premier of Alberta,he remained grounded in his faith and guided by his desire to serve the common good. His leadership reflected humility, compassion, and integrity, echoing the servant leadership of Christ.

Marie’s quiet strength and commitment have been no less impactful. Her lifelong dedication to family, parish life, and community service, including her time on the Board of Governors of Newman Theological Collegehas made her a model of faith in action. Together, Ed and Marie have nurtured faith, hospitality, and generosity in countless ways, sowing seeds of Christian hope and renewal in their communities.

Words of Gratitude and Reflection

In his remarks during the award ceremony, Most Rev. David, Bishop of the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of Edmonton, offered heartfelt congratulations:

“For some, the number 13 is bad luck, but for Ed Stelmach, who served as the 13th Premier of Alberta, it was a blessing not only for him and his lifelong companion Marie, but for the people of Alberta and beyond. As grandchildren of Ukrainian immigrants, Ed and Marie learned early the importance of sowing seeds, not only of wheat and barley, but of faith, values, and tradition to build a strong future for generations to come. O Wise Ed, and Marie, thank you for your wisdom and service in sowing seeds for a better future for all.”

In their acceptance speech, Ed and Marie Stelmach expressed deep gratitude and humility:

“We are truly honoured and humbled to receive this award. Both of us were raised in Catholic families where faith and love were abundant. We learned that when someone stumbled, you reached out, helped them up, and walked alongside them. Those lessons have guided us throughout our lives.”

Marie added:

“This award holds a special place in my heart, as it reminds me of my cherished friendship with Joan Carr. Service to the Church and community is both humbling and deeply rewarding, offering a true sense of accomplishment. We are called to use our God-given gifts to serve others.”

A Shared Mission of Faith

The Archdiocese of Edmonton, the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of Edmonton, and Newman Theological College continue to walk together in their shared mission of Christian witness, education, and pastoral care. The Stelmachs’ example reminds all believers that faith is best lived through service by building strong families, communities, and institutions rooted in Gospel values.

As members of the eparchial family, we take this opportunity to honour Ed and Marie for their inspiring example of Christian leadership and selfless love. May their faith and service continue to bear fruit for generations to come.

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