Saint John's Seminary

Yesterday, priests from across New England gathered at Saint John’s Seminary for the Summer Conference for Priests, One Priesthood, Many Ages: Renewing Fraternity in the New England Presbyterate.

The day featured presentations by Rev. Michael J. Najim, Vicar for Priests for the Diocese of Providence; Rev. James J. Ronan, Pastor Emeritus of St. Mary–St. Catherine of Siena Parish; and Most Rev. Robert P. Reed, Auxiliary Bishop of Archdiocese of Boston, President of The CatholicTV Network, and Rector-Designate of Saint John’s Seminary.

Together, the speakers explored the foundations of priestly fraternity and the unity that binds priests across generations, backgrounds, and assignments.

Fr. Najim reflected on the shared priesthood of Jesus Christ, encouraging priests to root their lives and ministry in Relationship, Identity, and Mission. Fr. Ronan emphasized that priestly fraternity is essential to the life of the Church, growing through prayer, honest encounter, and a living relationship with Christ. Bishop Reed concluded the conference with a reflection on how grace builds on nature, highlighting the importance of clarity, communication, and structure in fostering healthy priestly life and collaboration.

Throughout the conference, participants were reminded that strong priestly fraternity is not simply beneficial—it is essential for the flourishing of parishes, the promotion of vocations, the work of evangelization, and the joyful service of God's people.

📹 Recordings of all three presentations will be released on the SJSPodcast in the coming weeks. Stay tuned for upcoming episodes and conversations on priestly life, formation, and ministry.

Please continue to pray for our priests, that they may grow in holiness, fraternity, and fidelity to the mission entrusted to them by Christ and His Church.