The evening of June 6 was filled with joy and anticipation as the Knights of Columbus Council #764 hosted the first Seminarian Dinner at Holy Spirit Parish in Huntsville. Spearheaded by event chair Kevin Gordon, who had previously attended a similar event in another diocese, the dinner marked a first-of-its-kind celebration within the Diocese of Birmingham and served as a festive kickoff to Holy Spirit’s 60th anniversary weekend.

The evening began with a social hour, offering guests hors d’oeuvres and a chance to mingle with the seminarians, who were home for the summer. Raffle prizes added to the excitement, including a Pit Boss smoker, curated bourbon and scotch baskets, and a special Indian cuisine dinner prepared by Parochial Vicar Father Jose Ambooken.

Deacon Bob Becher served as emcee for the evening, delighting attendees with his signature humor. Bishop Steven Raica opened the dinner with a prayer, and guests were treated to a prime rib meal graciously prepared by the Ladies Auxiliary and served by the Knights and youth of Holy Spirit Parish.

In his remarks, Bishop Raica expressed his gratitude for the growing number of seminarians in the diocese and emphasized the importance of supporting their education and formation. He also acknowledged the faithful generosity of the laity, particularly in recent years, in contributing to the Seminarian Education Fund.

A highlight of the evening included a light-hearted “Guess the Seminarian” activity, where guests identified seminarians from their childhood photos. Each seminarian then shared brief comments of his vocation journey, allowing attendees to connect with them beyond their familiar portraits on the diocesan vocations poster.

Father Wyman Vintson, Vicar for Vocations, reflected, “I’m truly grateful to the Knights of Columbus and the parishioners of Holy Spirit for their incredible generosity and hospitality. Our seminarians felt welcomed, supported, and uplifted. Events like this remind them—and all of us—that their vocation is nurtured by the love and prayers of the whole Church.”

This inaugural event raised an impressive $40,000 for the Seminarian Education Fund. Event chair Kevin Gordon shared: “We appreciated everyone’s support in making this event possible. The generosity of the community and the interactions with the seminarians made this an unforgettable night. We’re already excited to begin planning next year’s event.”

In addition to the funds raised, Father Kevin Bazzel, Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia, announced that a generous donor has pledged to match all donations to the Seminarian Education Fund in 2025 up to $1 million, offering an extraordinary opportunity to multiply the impact of the evening’s donations and future gifts.

The evening concluded with closing remarks and a prayer from Father Vintson, followed by the announcement of raffle winners. The Blackstone Griddle went to John Rogers, and the Bourbon Basket was won by Paul Cogswell. Barbara Letterle took home the Church Street Wine Basket, and Kevin Gordon won the Corn Hole Set. The Craftsman Tool Set went to Thomas Bullock, and the Fire Pit Set went to Victor Montoya. Mark Damian won the Indian Dinner with Father Jose, and Chris MacFarland took home the Knobel Whiskey Set. Lee's Car Wash Gift Certificates went to Kathy Smith, and Lee's Car Wash and Brewer’s Bullpen Car Detail went to Bill Mordan. Herschel Agrusa took home the Men’s Skincare Bundle, while Tom White won the Pit Boss Smoker. The Pizza Stone & Wine Bundle was won by Chris Karrigan, and Patricia Norris won the Scotch Lover’s Bundle. Lastly, the Wine Glass Set went to Elizabeth O’Hallaron.

The success of the evening proved the faithful of the Diocese of Birmingham not only support vocations but are committed to forming the next generation of priests.

To learn more about the Seminarian Education Fund, please visit bhmdiocese.org/vocations.