For the seminarians of Mount St. Mary's University, the visit of the Most Reverend Archbishop Gabriele Caccia was a reminder that their formation belongs to something far larger than the campus where it takes place.
As Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, Archbishop Caccia serves as Pope Leo XIV's personal representative and a living link between the Catholic Church in the United States and the Vatican.
During his visit, Archbishop Caccia described the Seminary as a sign of hope for the country and the world.
"We rejoice when we see that the church is young and is growing, and there are always people who bring energy, vitality and creativity," he said at a luncheon with the Seminary and campus leadership.
The visit included Mass in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception, a panel discussion with seminarians and a blessing of The Way at the National Shrine Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes. The pathway honors Blessed Stanley Rother, who walked the Mount's grounds as a seminarian before giving his life in service to his parish community in Guatemala as the first American-born martyr for the Catholic faith. The Way path was officially opened on Sunday, October 25.
“Watching the University get excited and then watching our men come together and really take a lot of leadership and ownership in trying to plan this visit and make it a successful day has been inspiring and encouraging to see,” said Seminary Rector Rev. Michael Romano.
Mount St. Mary’s University President Gerard "Jerry" Joyce, Ph.D., reflected on the enduring and historical bond between the Mount and the Holy See.
"The Archbishop’s presence continues to be a beautiful relationship between the Mount and the representatives of the Holy Father, a relationship rooted in faith, prayer and devotion to our Blessed Mother," he said.
On behalf of the Seminary's student body, SGA President Joshua Wright presented Archbishop Caccia with a picture of Blessed Stanley Rother and a spiritual bouquet of prayers offered by seminarians and other Mount community members.
"The way that you blessed us, we hope that we can bless you," Wright said.
Mount St. Mary’s Seminary is the first of many U.S. seminaries Archbishop Caccia will visit.