The Pontifical North American College

Although the European calendar for university classes does not begin until October, students have been at the College in language studies, formation workshops and spiritual retreats since the beginning of September. Some of the New Men came over even earlier, beginning intensive Italian courses in late July.

The first big event of the year that everyone at the College prepares for is the Diaconate Ordination on the first Thursday in October. The College hosted family, friends and guests from the United States, Australia, and the world for this joyous occasion. All of this happens before the academic classes at the Universities begin.

This past Friday, at the end of the first week of university classes for most students, we looked back with gratitude to commemorate beginning of the new academic year, the ordination of new transitional deacons, the return of all the students and faculty from assignments in home dioceses and apostolates from around the world. We also witnessed the Oath of Fidelity taken by our new faculty members: Frs. Timothy McKeown, Luke Ballman, Robert Blyman and Msgrs. Cornelius McRae, and Michael Farmer. Hosted by Pastoral Council Chair Rev. Mr. Michael Gallacher of the Archdiocese of Melbourne, Australia, the community enjoyed a good meal in good company.

At the end of the meal, one of the traditions of our College is to hear some words from representatives of the New Man and our Fourth Year Classes.

Mr. Mark Paver of the Archdiocese of New York spoke on behalf of the New Men. Speaking humorously about some of his adjustments to a new country, a new culture, and a new community, he expressed gratitude on behalf of the New Men class and his hope for their contribution to our College.

Rev. Mr. Mark Miller of the Diocese of Madison spoke for the Fourth Year Class. He imaginatively poked fun at the high and low points of life in a seminary community. He finished by conveying a deep sense of gratitude for the many gifts he and all the community have received.

Msgr. Michael Farmer of the Archdiocese of Mobile ended the banquet in prayer.

The community seems to have already bonded so well after only a few weeks! It seems the 2011-2012 year at the North American College will a most blessed one indeed!