Rector’s Dinner 2016

“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing so some have entertained angels without knowing it.” Those we were about to serve were far from strangers — rather, friends and benefactors of the College — yet our Rector, Fr. Harman ’99 (Springfield in Illinois), used this verse from the Epistle to the Hebrews to encourage as us during his “pump-up speech” as we made preparations for the Rector’s dinner. Fr. Harman explained that apart from being a successful fundraiser, the Rector’s Dinner is formative service for seminarians and is an act of thanksgiving on the part of the College, inviting our friends and benefactors to share in the life of our community and its Easter joy. And so, this past Thursday, April 7, 2016, we welcomed the 24th Annual Rector’s Dinner as an opportunity to practice hospitality and entertain those God has sent to so generously meet the needs of the College.

Honorees Tim and Steph Busch and Archbishop Viganò meet for a photo with Very Rev. Peter Harman and all Their Eminences present at the Dinner.
Honorees Tim and Steph Busch and Archbishop Viganò gathered for a photo with College Rector Fr. Peter Harman and many of their Eminences present for the dinner.

 

After a social hour, guests sat down to enjoy traditional Italian dishes and the lively entertainment provided by an ensemble of seminarian singers and musicians, who performed American and Italian classics. The College was honored by the presence of many distinguished guests, including scores of Cardinals, Archbishops, Bishops, and Curial officials in attendance, along with several Ambassadors and international diplomatic representatives from around the world, many members of the Papal Foundation, and numerous friends, benefactors, and alumni of the College. Special guests included His Excellency Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò, Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, and Mr. Timothy and Mrs. Stephanie Busch, who were presented the 2016 Rector’s Award to recognize their important impact upon the College.

After an delightful evening, the College would like to thank all those who were able to be in attendance and we’re already looking forward to seeing you all next year!