As the year draws to a close, we will soon observe the holy season of Advent, which will eventually bring us to the joyful celebration of Christmas. While it is a special time for us to celebrate and spend time with our family and friends, I would like to remind all of us to remember our seminarians in a special way.

Once again, I hope that all our councils are supporting a seminarian. Christmas is the perfect time to send our financial support in the form of a Christmas gift to that man that is discerning God’s call. Please send your seminarian a card, letting them know that they are remembered in your prayers in a special way this Christmas. If they are home on break and are available, consider taking them out for a meal. Is your council having a Christmas party or dinner? Invite your seminarian! These small things go a long way for a seminarian. Knowing that they are remembered and are included means a great deal.

Lastly, I wanted to remind everyone to please send me a copy of your RSVP form (2863) that you submit towards your Columbian Award. I have received less than ten forms since July, and I know that there are more councils that have completed the RSVP program. Please don’t wait until June to send in the form if you have completed the requirements for the program. My email address is [email protected]. It is very important that we know the amount of support being given to our future priests at the state level.

Thank you for all that you are doing to support and encourage all of those who are discerning their vocation in life. Saint John Vianney - Pray for us! Blessed Michael McGivney - Pray for us!

Vivat Jesus,

Nathan

Through the Knights of Columbus Refund Support Vocations Program (RSVP), councils, assemblies, and Squires circles “adopt” one or more seminarians or postulants and provide them with financial assistance and moral support.
Qualifing councils and assemblies receive a $100 refund for every $500 donated. Up to a limit of $2000 donated to an individual.

The following persons are eligible to receive RSVP funds:

• Seminarians attending college seminaries.
• Seminarians who have been accepted by a diocese.
• Seminarian attending seminaries in preparation for priestly ordination.
• Seminarians in their “Pastoral" year, ie:transitional deacons.
• Men and women who are novices or postulants in religious orders or religious communities.