On October 22, Saint John’s Seminary warmly welcomed back the Class of 2025 for a special Mass and dinner, marking a joyful homecoming for the Class of 2025. The celebration was both a reflection on their journey and a glimpse of the future of priestly ministry.
Fr. George Bastedo IV served as the main celebrant, while Fr. Zachary Sullivan delivered a homily that resonated deeply with all in attendance. His words, at once reflective and uplifting, reminded the seminary community: “Turn to God, and we do the best that we can. We do the best we can, and let God do the rest.” He encouraged all to embrace faithfulness and prudence over perfection, highlighting the grace in navigating life’s unpredictable moments with trust in God.

Br. Moses, a member of the Class of 2025, served as deacon, and Frs. Dong Pham, Brian Daley, and Thuy Nguyen joined as concelebrants. Fr. Dong led the blessing at dinner, and the evening continued with fellowship in the Common Room.
The return of these priests brought a profound sense of pride, love, and inspiration. As Msgr. Salocks noted in his opening remarks, the new priests embody the goal toward which seminarians still in formation strive, offering living testimony of the Seminary’s mission: to form faithful, capable, and compassionate servants of God.
Saint John’s Seminary continues to be a home for priests at every stage of their vocation—a place to celebrate milestones, reflect on God’s guidance, and embrace the shared mission of service.
