Profiles

THE MISSING PIECE

Priestly Formation

While attending college, I felt an emptiness in my heart. I knew something was missing in my life, and I was not doing what I was called to do — study for the priesthood. I enrolled at Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary, and my heart has been fulfilled in more ways than I can count. My most beneficial time at the seminary is taking part in my Apostolate every Thursday. This helped fill that hole in my heart. This program allowed me to serve God and be a tool in His plan. I had the opportunity to be a father figure for children who may not have a father, to be a friend, and to be a spiritual guide.

Words can’t express my gratitude for the benefactors of Saint Charles. Simply knowing that the faithful has your back is such a source of inspiration for myself and my brother seminarians. The future of our Church is something we take for granted, and having your support is extremely beneficial and crucial for all of us seminarians who walk through these gates. The seminary allows young men to come to a quiet place in a world of craziness and discern God’s plan in their lives.

Saint Charles sends faithful and knowledgeable priests into the world, which would not be possible without your support. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for supporting the Seminary Appeal.

-Rev. Mr. Shane Flanagan

When Pope Francis visited Philadelphia in 2015, I was working as a pharmacist and had a spiritual awakening. I knew I wanted to enroll at Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary and study for the priesthood. My favorite memory of St. Charles is bonding with my fellow seminarians. We all came here from different backgrounds, cultures, and parishes, and it has been a joy being on this incredible journey with them.

The forming of seminarians isn’t just based on the formation; the formation continues into our priesthood. That’s the legacy of St. Charles – the alumni continue to appreciate what they learned from the seminary. The formation is for a lifetime, and the legacy you find at the seminary will continue for future generations.

I think giving to the Seminary Appeal is important because formation is strongest when your mind and heart  can focus. With that focus, you can serve others without concerns about financial hardships or constraints. You’re able to fully dedicate yourself to the Church. When you support the Seminary Appeal, you allow us 
seminarians to focus on our study and service.

I’m thankful for being an instrument of God, and I’m thankful for your prayers and support. We are grateful to be able to focus on our priestly formation for the glory of God and the Church. Thank you for your support of St. Charles Borromeo Seminary. 

– Rev. Mr. Phong Le

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