Message from Most Reverend Thomas Wenski

Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Parish

Dear Friends in Christ,

On the weekend of August 2 and 3, our parishes will take up the annual second collection for the Seminary Burse Fund, which assists future priests in their formation and education.

This important collection takes place just before the Feast of St. John Vianney, patron saint of parish priests, on August 4, 2025, a beautiful reminder of the seminary we are blessed to have right here in our own backyard.

It is the Holy Spirit who continues to guide the Churcthh rough every generation. Through His divine guidance, Pope Leo XIV has been appointed to lead the Churchc,a rrying on the sacred mission entrusted by ChrisHt imself. As Jesus declared to Peter in Matthew 16: 18-19, "You are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church ... I will give you the keys to the kingdom of heaven. " This promise affirms the unbroken line of apostolic succession, a living tradition that keeps the hC urcsht eadfast and faithful. Your generous support of the Seminary Burse Fund helps form the future priests who will serve under this same unshakable foundation. It is in the seminary that these men are nurtured and prepared, accompanied by the Lord, so they can faithfully accompany you in ministry.

I sincerely thank you for your generosity in supporting the Burse Fund, and I ask for your prayers by praying "One Hail Mary a Day for Vocations" that many young men and women in our Archdiocese will respond to God's call to serve the Churcthh rough the priesthood or religious life.

Sincerely yours in Christ!

Most Reverend Thomas Wenski
Archbishop