FUTURE PRIESTS

Catholics answer call

Annual supper generates a goodly sum for seminarians’ schooling

Under ordinary circumstances, 44 presentable, mannerly and charismatic young men -- all unmarried -- might give 44 marriage-minded young women high hopes. Yet, these particular young men are not headed to the altar for such a union.

They are all future priests, and badly needed, according to Diocese of Little Rock statistics that show there are only 75 priests serving Arkansas' 130,000 Catholics.

And for them, seminary is not cheap.

Which is why the diocese held its fifth annual Taste of Faith, a reception and dinner Aug. 9 in the ballroom of the Little Rock Marriott.

The seminarians were introduced by their graduation year. Highlights of the evening included a film they helped produce, showing the contrast between things held dear by the world and the work to which they have been called; and testimonies by students Stephen Hart and William Burmester.

Monsignor Scott Friend, vocations director and vicar general for the diocese, praised the young men for their talent and hard work, noting that it costs $32,000 to $33,000 per year for tuition as well as such expenses as room and board, books and insurance. Being at seminary, he noted, is "no cakewalk" -- but rather, a journey that involves much study, prayer, work and ministry. "I'm asking you tonight to make an investment ... an investment in faith," Friend said. The proverbial hat was passed for donations, and later, several paintings were raffled off.

Proving it was no crew of stuffed clergy shirts, the seminarian band played a few catchy rock tunes prior to dinner as well as several selections during the program. Other entertainment included a song by seminarian Patrick Saint-Jean and the students' singing of the "Salve Regina" at the invitation of diocese Bishop Anthony Taylor, who also spoke.

Taste of Faith raised about $250,000, up from $190,000 last year, "so we are quite pleased," said Dianne Brady, diocese director of stewardship and development.

High Profile on 08/17/2014

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