Farewell to Resurrection Parish...
 
In June 2023, I began my pastoral year of seminary formation: a break from my theological studies, and a full-time parish experience living in the rectory, participating in (nearly) every aspect of parish life, and learning from the clergy, staff, volunteers, and all of you. I have been blessed to visit Ave Maria Academy classrooms, serve as a pastoral plan priority lead, work closely with our youth group, oversee the Eucharistic Revival during its parish year, and learn from so many talented teams and individuals who make our ministry possible. I am grateful for the overwhelming support, prayers, and encouragement you have given me! 

Now, over a year later, it is time for me to resume my theological studies at St. Mary’s Seminary in Baltimore, Maryland. (Pictured below, and it is even more stunning in person!) The Diocese of Pittsburgh’s seminarians study at St. Vincent Seminary in Latrobe (Father John Ferguson’s alma mater), Theological College in Washington, D.C. (Father Mike’s alma mater), and St. Mary’s Seminary, and completing our formation outside of Pittsburgh gives us opportunities to build fraternity with men from other dioceses and experience the Church in other parts of the country.

An inscription at the top of our building reads, “Go, and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). Jesus’ command to his disciples lies at the center of priestly formation. The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops explains in its Program of Priestly Formation, “The Church continues to place the highest value on the work of priestly formation, because it is linked to the very mission of the Church, especially the evangelization of humanity: ‘Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations’ (Mt. 28:19)” (PPF 16). My last two years of studies at St. Mary’s Seminary will prepare me to carry out Jesus’ command, especially as I prepare for ordination to the diaconate on June 7, 2025!

I plan to visit Resurrection Parish as much as possible during the academic year, and in the meantime, please know that I will be praying for you. It has been an honor, a joy, and a gift from God to serve you, and I hope you will continue to know and experience the peace and joy of the Resurrection!

In Christ,
Seminarian Matt

P.S. I will continue to check my parish email ([email protected]), 
but snail mail is a great way to stay in touch! My seminary address is:

Matt Selzer
St. Mary’s Seminary
5400 Roland Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21210