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Letter from the Rector
 Dear Friends, I am filled with gratitude as I begin my third year as rector of Theological College. There have been some wonderful changes both on the external level of the seminary in terms of beautifying the grounds and the upkeep of the building. However, I am even more grateful for all the internal changes resulting in the spiritual growth on the part of the entire seminary community including: faculty, seminarians, and staff. We are one community of faith, prayer, study, and service, and as members of the 'communaute educatrice' a French term that describes a setting of shared life between seminarians and faculty where the formation process takes place through personal contact and example as well as by the more explicit forms of formation advising, spiritual direction, large and small group formation. TC continues to be a place of hospitality and welcome. Looking ahead, I am delighted with our increased enrollment of new seminarians from many different dioceses and ethnic origins. This year will be filled with many multicultural challenges, but these simply mirror the situation that is appearing in our country and in our Church. Our seminary community is blessed with several priests from China who are doing advanced study at Catholic University as well as priests from Eastern Europe. Each of these men is an example of priestly holiness and dedicated scholarship to the community at Theological College. This year in conjunction with the university's School of Theology and Religious Studies, we are hosting during the course of our Alumni Days reunion celebration October 6-7, a symposium titled The Ministerial Priesthood in the New Millennium: Faithfulness of Christ, Faithfulness of Priests. This symposium will explore the mystery of the priesthood in light of the Church's theological and spiritual heritage. Details on this symposium can be found on this web site as well as on the Catholic University web site. When asked, what makes TC a unique place to study for priesthood, I respond that there are many features that come together to form a perfect mosaic. These include: a formation experience based in a community of prayer, study, and service; outstanding educational opportunities in the Schools of Theology and Religious Studies, and Philosophy at Catholic University; the exciting potential of studying in the nation's capitol; and, placement opportunities that are challenging and enhancing in their diversity and multicultural dimension. We hope you will find the information you seek regarding formation and community life at TC and news related to alumni affairs easy to find on our web site. We thank you for your interest and look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely yours in Christ,  Very Reverend Melvin C. Blanchette, S.S. Rector |
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