The Annual(-ish) Seminary Flag Football Tournament: A Day of Sportsmanship at Saint John’s Seminary

Each year, the Saint John’s Seminary community gathers for its “annual-ish” Flag Football Tournament; a day that blends prayer, fellowship, and friendly competition in the heart of the autumn season. Hosted at the Benedictine Monastery in Harvard, MA, this year’s tournament brought together seminarians, faculty, and friends.

The day began, fittingly, with a Holy Hour led by Deacon Jonathan Saniuk, followed by Mass celebrated by Fr. Stanislaus Achu and Fr. Joe from the monastery community. In his homily, Fr. Stan reflected on the Blessed Mother, drawing inspiration from Psalm 145:

“I will praise your name forever, Lord.”

He reminded those gathered that, just as Mary gave her full “yes” to God, each seminarian is called to respond with the same faith and joy—both in moments of study and in moments of recreation.

After breakfast, the focus shifted from the chapel to the field as teams took to the grass for the first round of games. The Red Team emerged victorious over Green, while Blue triumphed against Gray, ending the defending champions’ run for back-to-back titles. Following lunch, the consolation and championship games took place. Gray claimed victory in their consolation match, and Blue sealed their tournament win against Red.

🏆 Champions: Team Blue
💪 MVP: Ryan Immerman

But beyond the scores and stats, the flag football tournament serves a deeper purpose within seminary life. While the academic and spiritual formation of future priests is at the heart of Saint John’s mission, community events like this remind everyone that priestly formation encompasses the whole person.

Moments of fraternity, recreation, and teamwork allow seminarians to grow in virtues that are just as essential to the priesthood as theology and pastoral training—virtues like perseverance, humility, leadership, and joy. Learning to support one another both on and off the field reflects the spirit of unity that will one day shape their ministries in parishes across New England and beyond.

“Every day will I bless you, and I will praise your name forever and ever.”

In that spirit of gratitude and praise, the flag football tournament became more than a game—it was a celebration of community, brotherhood, and the joyful formation of those preparing to serve the Church.