Highlights from the 23rd Annual Saint John’s Seminary Summer Classic Golf Tournament

On June 16, under welcome sunshine, more than 80 golfers gathered at the beautiful Ipswich Country Club for the 23rd Annual Saint John’s Seminary Summer Classic Golf Tournament—an event that was as joyful as it was meaningful. This year’s tournament served as the closing celebration of the Seminary’s 140th Anniversary, a yearlong reflection on its Legacy, Mission, and Future.

Following the elegant Gala at the Museum of Fine Arts and our uplifting Spring Reception, the Summer Classic carried forward the spirit of celebration with warmth, camaraderie, and purpose. With the sound of tee-offs and laughter echoing across the fairways, the day became a living expression of what Saint John’s Seminary represents: a community rooted in tradition, energized by faith, and committed to forming future shepherds for the Church.

Since 1884, Saint John’s Seminary has been forming men called to the priesthood—preparing them to serve Christ and His Church in an ever-changing world. This mission lives not only in classrooms and chapels, but in every parish, school, and ministry our alumni serve. And on this day, that mission was alive on the course too, as many alumni and seminarians joined the tournament, offering players a chance to meet those who are living out this calling—and those still preparing to do so.

As Patrick Nee, a tournament participant, put it:

“Good friends, good weather, good food, and a great cause... We hope that our day on the links contributed in a small way to the future of the seminary and, therefore, the future of our Church.”

That spirit of joyful generosity was shared by all, none more than the winning foursome of Brian Benestad, Tim Williams, John Jeniski, and Jeff Chamberland, who played a stellar round and came in with an impressive score of 55. Congratulations to them, and to everyone who brought their best game—and their best selves—to the event.

Tournament participant Kevin Nelson shared:

"Always a pleasure to join with friends, seminarians, and staff at the Saint John’s Seminary golf tournament. It’s a great way to show support for the wonderful work that is being done to form future priests as well as educate and form laity in their mission of evangelization. Having graduated in 2002 with a M.A.M. degree, I know firsthand the importance of these graduate programs for the laity. Kudos to the team that runs the Golf Tournament for another great event and many blessings on Saint John’s Seminary as it continues its very important work to guide young men to serve the people of God."

Thanks to the support of our generous donors, alumni, and friends, Saint John’s Seminary continues to look forward with hope and determination. The future of our Church is being shaped here and now, and your participation in events like this helps ensure that our seminarians receive the formation they need to become the dedicated, compassionate priests the world needs.

Special thanks to our Birdie Sponsors: CatholicTV, FOLAN Waterproofing & Construction, and the Martore Family—for their generous support!

To see photos from the tournament—including foursome shots with Monsignor Salocks—click here.

Thank you for celebrating our 140th Anniversary with us, and for walking with us—both on and off the course—as we carry the mission forward into the next 140 years.