On December 9, 2019, the Sacred Heart Major Seminary family celebrated the solemnity of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. (Due to December 8 falling on the Second Sunday of Advent, the feast day was not observed as a holy day of obligation and was rather celebrated as a solemnity and transferred to the following Monday).
In addition to the feast day, SHMS also celebrates its founding day on December 8. To honor the conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the seminary’s founding, the Sacred Heart community gathered in the main chapel for Mass with Monsignor Todd J. Lajiness, rector and president of the seminary, acting as main celebrant. Many of the resident, faculty, and staff priests joined in the Mass as concelebrants.
Brunch immediately followed Mass as “Salve Regina” continued to echo from the organ and through the hallways. It was a time for community and celebration as students, faculty, and staff took the time to share a meal and conversation in honor of the solemnity.
Deacon John Vinton, a Theology IV seminarian studying for the diocese of Lansing and Theology House President, offered a few words, prayers, and a toast in honor of Pope Francis. Samuel Waldron, a Pre-Theology II seminarian studying for the diocese of Kalamazoo and College House president, gave thanks for Archbishop Allen H. Vigneron. The third toast was led by College I seminarian for the archdiocese of Detroit, Dominic Trela.