Spiritual gifts abounded for the seminarians of the diocese and their families, who were treated to Mass and a Christmas luncheon at the Pastoral Center, Richmond, Dec. 20, 2024. About 40 people gathered to welcome the 22 men home from seminary for the Christmas break, including the seminarians’ parents, Bishop Barry C. Knestout, and other clergy.
Seminarian Aventon Grimes, home from St. John Paul II Seminary in Washington, DC, said it was special to be back in the diocese and to be able to connect with Bishop Knestout and the faithful. “It’s life-giving to be back together,” he said.
Bishop Knestout celebrated Mass in the chapel, with four priests concelebrating: Father Michael G. Boehling, vicar general; Father Timothy M. Kuhneman, vicar for clergy; Father Matthew A. Kiehl, vicar for vocations; and Father Magnus Tochi Iwuji, director of the Office for Black Catholics and pastor of Holy Rosary, Richmond.
Two of the seminarians who were ordained transitional deacons last May, Deacon Andrew Clark and Deacon Matthew Kelly, also served at Mass.
Bishop Knestout thanked the men for discerning God’s call, noting that each face different hardships in their individual circumstances. He told the seminarians, “I pray that you are strengthened in your vocation and able to respond in faith in day-to-day situations.”
Lunch followed Mass, giving everyone a chance to catch up with one other. Seminarian Tim Soukup, home from the Blessed Stanley Rother House of Formation at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary in Emmitsburg, Maryland, said it was good to celebrate family and fraternity.
“The bishop talked today about the importance of family in formation. My family has been very important to me, and encouraging me, and guiding me, and leading me, and helping me in this process,” Soukup said. “Also, the same can extend to my brother seminarians, who I’ve grown to come to know and take this journey with.”
Soukup’s parents were also grateful for the chance to be together. “This is a really fun and encouraging gathering,” said Kathleen Soukup, Tim’s mother. “It’s wonderful to be here with all these faithful young men who are in formation, and celebrating, together.”
Family support even came in small sizes, but with big eyes, that day. Seminarian Jack Domark had his parents at his side, along with his two-month-old baby brother, Luke.
Jack’s mother, Molly Domark, was joyfully celebrating both of her sons. Little Luke would be baptized the next day, she said. And as for Jack, “I think he’s in the place where he’s supposed to be, and I think it comes through,” said Molly, confidently, with a big smile.
See more photos from the bishop’s Mass and lunch for seminarians.