San Antonio announces largest ordination class in years

San Antonio, Texas, May 15, 2006 / 22:00 pm

Assumption Seminary is presenting its largest ordination class in years.

“Nine men are being ordained as priests, and two others are being ordained deacons,” said Fr. Larry Christian, rector of the seminary. “This is a great moment of celebration for us.” Another nine ordinations are anticipated next year and another 11 in 2008.

The bilingual seminary was founded in 1915. In recent years, it has seen a resurgence of growth and interest.

“We have doubled our seminarian population over the past five years and we anticipate even more growth in coming years,” he said.

As a result, construction recently began on the Archbishop Flores Residence Hall, which will house 80 seminarians and four faculty members. The new residence will be open by July 2007. Over $10 million dollars have been raised toward a goal of $13 million for the expansion of the seminary. “I am told that we’re the only seminary in the country adding new space,” said Fr. Christian.

On May 17, Assumption Seminary will celebrate with its Leadership in Faith and Service gala dinner at the Marriot Riverwalk. Ed and Nelda Benninger will be honored for their role in helping the expansion campaign. Archbishop Michael Miller, secretary of the Congregation for Catholic Education in Rome, will be the guest speaker. Archbishop Miller is in charge of the recent review of all American seminaries.