Conception blesses new seminary residence hall

The monks and seminarians of Conception Abbey and Seminary College, joined together with friends, family, and donors to bless Good Shepherd Hall, the new seminary residence hall.
 
The building’s blessing was Sunday, August 28, as part of Conception’s Seminary Open House event, where nearly 300 people gathered under a large white tent for a meal and fellowship following Sunday Mass in the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception.
 
“This new building represents not only an update of our facilities but also the continued renewal of our work of priestly formation,” said Very Rev. Victor Schinstock, OSB, president-rector of Conception Seminary College. “A lot of changes have taken place in recent years to improve our ability to form these men, and we are thrilled and humbled to have so many generous friends who believe in our work and have consistently stepped up to support us with prayers and gifts throughout this campaign.
 
“To that end, the beautiful day God gave us for this event was symbolic of the many blessings He has given us throughout this journey,” he continued. “On behalf of the monks and seminarians, I wish to express gratitude to God and all those He has sent to journey alongside us.”
 
Following the luncheon, Right Rev. Benedict Neenan, OSB, abbot of Conception Abbey, blessed Good Shepherd Hall. Accompanying him were Very Rev. Victor Schinstock, OSB, president-rector of Conception Seminary College; Most Rev. Joseph Hanefeldt, bishop of the Diocese of Grand Island, Nebraska and chairman of Conception’s Board of Regents; Mr. Nicholas Hickman, student body president and seminarian of the Diocese of Knoxville, Tennessee; Rev. Paul Sheller, OSB, director of Spiritual Formation; Mr. Mark Wiederholt, owner’s representative on the building site, and Mr. Garrett Hugeback, a seminarian of the Diocese Sioux City.
 
Right Rev. Neenan called upon God’s blessing over the residence hall and those who will reside there for decades to come. The blessing began, “God the Father Almighty, we fervently implore you, for the sake of this residence and its occupants and possessions, that you may bless and sanctify them, enriching them by your kindness in every way possible.”
 
The crowd sang songs of praise, and Schinstock read a gospel passage. Neenan sprinkled the exterior and interior of the building with holy water.
 
Following the blessing, Good Shepherd Hall was opened for the guests to have the first look at the seminarian dormitory. Monks and seminarians showed them around student rooms and lounges, chaplain suites and offices, and the Sts. James and John Chapel. Each of these spaces was uniquely designed to fit the needs of seminarians and their formation for priestly ministry.
 
Learn more about the current Signature Phase of the Brothers Living in Unity campaign.

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