On September 28, 2022, over 300 guests gathered in the Mary Courtyard to celebrate the formation of priests at Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary. His Eminence Cardinal Seán O’Malley, Archbishop of Boston and Chairman of the Board, hosted the evening and Ms. Christine Roessel was the Lawn Party Chair for the second consecutive year. We gathered for enjoyable conversation and wonderful food with many alumni, benefactors, and seminarians including our fifteen new men who entered the doors this fall for formation. Ms. Roessel spoke to the guests about why she continues to support the Seminary and why she forges strong friendships with the seminarians, encouraging them and often staying in touch after ordination. We also heard from Joseph Gonzalez, a seminarian in the Class of 2024 in formation for the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C. Joe spoke about his journey that led him from Parris Island to Pope St. John XXIII, with many roads in between. Joe shared how as a young child in Washington D.C. he knew “Fr. Seán O’Malley” and how delighted and humbled he was reuniting with now Cardinal O’Malley when answering his call to formation. Seminary Rector, Rev. Brian Kiely, also addressed the guests expressing tremendous gratitude for their continued support and their unfailing prayers. Cardinal O’Malley closed the speaking program by reminding all in attendance how important and impactful it is to have a Seminary for the mature learner, where the work done at Pope St. John XXIII echoes throughout the world.
The year is off to a great start! Once again, we deeply thank you for your tremendous faith in the formation program at Pope St. John XXIII and in these men choosing to become priests for God. Together, we will help build His Church.
We certainly hope to see you next year at the 42nd Annual Lawn Party. Monitor our website and social media for a save-the-date message and join us once again!
Read more about the evening in The Pilot, Boston’s Catholic newspaper: The Pilot - Pope St. John XXIII Annual Lawn Party 2022
