Alumni Giving Appeal
2025 Alumni Giving Appeal
Thank you for your continued support.
Last year, through your generous support we successfully raised funds for the purchase of a new floor for the gymnasium built in 1951 and damaged by the flood in 2016. The high-quality cushioned flooring was installed as Phase I of this project, as we strive to enhance the physical health and wellness activities conducted by the seminarians.
The following is the 2025 Alumni Giving Appeal Letter from Fr. Matthew Clark, O.S.B.
Dear St. Ben’s Alumni,
As an Alumnus who has already made a lasting investment in the future of Saint Joseph Seminary College, you understand more than most the significance of preparing young men for the Roman Catholic priesthood and accompanying them in their discernment. This year we welcome a large class of 49 new men, bringing our total enrollment this year to 103. Now more than ever, your commitment to St. Ben’s continues to sustain us as we continue to grow.
I write to invite you to be a part of the St. Ben’s annual Alumni Donation Challenge, which directly supports young men taking on priestly formation.
Last year, through your generous support we successfully raised funds for the purchase of a new floor for the gymnasium built in 1951 and damaged by the flood in 2016. The high-quality cushioned flooring was installed in the late spring and promises to enhance the physical health and wellness activities conducted by the seminarians through the coming year and into the future.
For many alumni the recreational facilities, even as they were, are a meaningful part of formation at St. Ben’s. Places like the gymnasium, where physical activity promoted health, cultivated clarity, strengthened bonds of brotherhood, and restored balance, were essential to discernment. This environment at St. Ben’s continues to contribute to the integral human formation the Church calls for in priestly life. I feel this is a worthy project to support.
With your investment, we can continue transforming this cherished space. Will you help fund the second phase of our gymnasium renovation? The second phase will focus on purchasing updated equipment for the gymnasium and for wellness activities. As part of this phase, we will ask the Student Government Association to form a student ad hoc committee to provide input on what equipment to purchase to meet their needs.
Our goal is to raise $65,000 with this appeal to give our seminarians an opportunity to participate in improving their physical health and wellness activities. Every gift, large or small, will make a tangible impact. With your support, we can give the seminarians the tools they need to experience well-being, athleticism and team activities that engender a willingness and ability to develop discipline during their years of preparation.
We invite you to be part of this effort – your prayers and financial support are a true gift to our seminarians. We are grateful you are part of the St. Ben’s family.
Go Ravens...CAW!
In Christ,
Very Reverend Matthew Clark, O.S.B. (‘80)
President-Rector
P.S. Save the Date! Join us for our 106th Alumni Day Homecoming on April 10, 2026. Let’s celebrate St. Ben’s together!
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Make a check payable to the Saint Joseph Abbey and mail to:
Saint Joseph Abbey and Seminary College
75376 River Road
St. Benedict, LA 70457
Attn: Saint Benedict Appeal
Questions? Contact Debb De Noux at 985-867-2264 or ddenoux@sjasc.edu.