CHARLOTTE — Eight new students have joined St. Joseph College Seminary, bringing the total to 21 enrolled in the Charlotte-based program as the new school year begins.
The 21 young men will pursue college degrees at Belmont Abbey College while living a Benedictine life of prayer, discerning a possible call to the priesthood. They are living in three houses adjacent to St. Ann Church in Charlotte – a temporary arrangement until a permanent college seminary can be built on land near Belmont Abbey College that was recently purchased by the Diocese of Charlotte.
During Mass Aug. 5 at St. Ann Church, the eight new students were welcomed by Father Matthew Kauth, rector of the college seminary. He dubbed them the “Charlie Class” because they are the third class of men to enter St. Joseph College Seminary.
During his homily he told the new students – who were seated in the front row of the church – that they are not entering boot camp, but “belief camp.”
He told them they would now have ample time to discern their vocation, and he encouraged them to focus all of their energy toward one goal: Jesus Christ.
Also at the Mass were Father Matthew Buettner, spiritual director for the college seminary; Father Jason Barone, diocesan vocations promoter; and Father John Putnam, pastor of St. Mark Church in Huntersville.
Transitional Deacon Britt Taylor, Deacon Tom Sanctis and Deacon Peter Tonin assisted at Mass.
After Mass the college seminary students and their families were guests at a reception in the parish's Monsignor Allen Center.
Just like any college move-in day, all 21 men and their families then proceeded to unload cars filled with suitcases, bags, boxes and clothing into what will be their new home during the academic year.
— SueAnn Howell, senior reporter
