PHILADELPHIA — The seminary that has formed generations of diocesan priests and two Arlington bishops has a new home. St. Charles Borromeo Seminary, a fixture in Philadelphia for 193 years, began classes in August at its new location in Lower Gwynedd, Pa., 10 miles outside the city.
Cardinal Christophe Pierre, apostolic nuncio to the United States, was the honored guest for the blessing of the seminary Oct. 12, with Philadelphia Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez presiding. “It’s a great gift. The men of Arlington were studying at the seminary when I was here 40 years ago,” Archbishop Pérez told the Catholic Herald. “It’s always been a great joy to have them. This is the work of the church as we seek and strive to form new priests for the church in Philadelphia and Arlington and Allentown. And of course, your bishop is beloved here.”
Bishop Michael F. Burbidge and Bishop Thomas J. Welsh (served in Arlington 1974-83) were both seminarians and rectors of St. Charles and auxiliary bishops of Philadelphia, highlighting a long and fruitful history between the dioceses.
“It’s trust — trust throughout the years of being able to rely on the team here at the seminary to form us into the heart of Christ, so we can come to Virginia and serve the people of Virginia,” said Deacon Alfredo Tuesta, diocesan seminarian. “It’s been a wonderful experience to be formed in Philadelphia.”
Designed in the Spanish mission architectural style, the fifth location of the seminary comes after 153 years at its historic Overbrook campus. St. Charles opened in 1832 on Fourth Street in Philadelphia. “It was designed for the way formation is done today as opposed to 150 years ago,” said Bishop Keith J. Chlynski, rector. “The facilities and classrooms are completely updated and the architects were intentional about allowing a lot of natural light so it’s a very bright place. It enlivens your spirit.”
“The facilities are gorgeous,” said seminarian Connor Kleb. “The chapel is beautiful, with many facets from our chapel at old St. Charles. It feels like home.”
Cardinal Pierre was delighted to present Archbishop Pérez and Bishop Chylinski with a portrait of Pope Francis during the blessing ceremony. “As the personal representative of the Holy Father to the church in the United States, I am happy to convey to you the spiritual closeness and personal affection of Pope Francis,” said Cardinal Pierre. “The pope reminds us that the Lord asks us for the courage to take a risk with him and for him. You seminarians know how true this is in your own lives. You have taken a risk in following your vocation, trusting in God’s promise.”
The diocese has a total of 42 seminarians who are trusting in that promise, with 16 of those attending St. Charles.
“This is just a reminder that everything that we do as seminarians is built on the shoulders of amazing men,” said seminarian Luke Helbling. “There have been amazing priests that were formed here who continue to lay down their lives for Jesus Christ and his church.”
Bishop Chylinski hopes to see many more men from the diocese make their way to St. Charles. “For young men who are having a question, or discerning, or have thought about being a priest, I just say, ‘Don’t be afraid,’ ” he said. “If God is calling you, being a priest is the most awesome vocation you can have.”
