On the Eve of the New Year, the Basilica of St. Peter held the Te Deum and Vespers to conclude the year in thanksgiving. Our seminary had the opportunity to participate in the liturgical service right in the heart of the Church and in the presence of Pope Francis. Also present was Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, who presided over the prayer that evening. The seminarians were blessed to have met with the pope right before they processed into the basilica.
On occasions such as these, we are able to see the incredible value and utmost importance of thanksgiving. Even as the world undergoes challenging times in the midst of a pandemic and other difficulties, the Church unites us together to give thanks to God for all the blessings He gives to us out of His love.
The seminarians are especially grateful for having been able to participate in this service with Pope Francis as a conclusion to the year of 2021. We look forward to a fruitful year of 2022 as the seminarians proceed in their formation. Happy new year!