2025 Annual Fall Reception: Forming Hearts for Mission

Each year, the Saint John’s Seminary community gathers for the Annual Fall Reception—a moment to pause and give thanks for the mission that unites us: forming men after the heart of Christ to serve His Church. This year’s celebration began with a beautiful Mass celebrated by Archbishop Henning, Archbishop of Boston. Joining him in prayer were Bishop François Beyrouti of the Melkite Eparchy of Newton and Bishop Bruce Lewandowski of the Diocese of Providence, whose presence reflected the shared commitment among bishops, clergy, and faithful to the work of priestly formation.

The evening brought together supporters, families, alumni, and friends of the seminary—each an essential part of the community that makes this mission possible. United in faith and gratitude, all gathered to reflect on how God continues to shape the hearts of future priests and to renew the Church through their ongoing formation.

In his homily, Archbishop Henning reflected on the Book of Jonah—a story that, while at times humorous and fantastical, offers profound insight into the human heart. Jonah’s reluctance to follow God’s call and his frustration at God’s mercy toward others reveal how narrow and self-focused human perception can become.

“The book of Jonah,” Archbishop Henning shared, “is a prophetic text aimed at the conversion of perception.” It calls us to move beyond our limited perspectives—to see as God sees, with compassion and humility.

This message, he noted, lies at the heart of priestly formation. “Part of the purpose of the seminary,” he said, “is to form the hearts of men after the heart of Christ.” Growth in holiness and wisdom, he explained, requires not only intellectual study but also the transformation of one’s vision—to recognize that life is not about placing oneself at the center, but about living fully in God’s universe, with Him at the center of all things.

Hope in the Midst of Challenge

Archbishop Henning also spoke candidly about the challenges of proclaiming the Gospel in a secular age. Yet his words were filled with hope. Though many might perceive decline in faith, he reminded the community that God is always at work, planting seeds of renewal that often go unnoticed.

“I keep meeting young people,” he shared, “drawn to Scripture, asking questions about prayer, feeling the stirrings of vocation.” These encounters, he said, reveal the quiet work of the Holy Spirit—the beginnings of a renewal that calls for patience, faith, and trust in God’s timing.

Called to Be Prophets

Archbishop Henning concluded with a call that extends beyond the seminary walls: a call to be prophets. “Every baptized person,” he said, “shares in Christ’s mission as priest, prophet, and king.” To be prophetic is to discern God’s will, to listen deeply, and to reveal His presence to others through one’s words and life.

He encouraged seminarians to see their years of formation as a precious gift—“the plant God has placed before you for shade”—a time of preparation, humility, and openness to grace. His hope is that when they leave Saint John’s, they do so with transformed hearts—ready to speak and live as prophetic witnesses to the Gospel.

Grateful for the Mission We Share

The Fall Reception was not only a celebration but also a renewal of purpose. Every prayer, every act of generosity, and every word of encouragement helps sustain the seminary’s mission to form priests who will serve with compassion, wisdom, and fidelity.

As we look ahead, we do so with gratitude—for our bishops and clergy, for the seminarians who have answered God’s call, and for the many friends and benefactors who make their formation possible. Together, we continue to build up the Church, trusting always in God’s work among us.

We are deeply grateful to all who joined us for this year’s Fall Reception, and for your continued support of Saint John’s Seminary and its mission.