Cardinal Seán P. O’Malley will host the Blessed John XXIII National Seminary Annual Lawn Party to be held Sept. 23 on the grounds of the seminary in Weston.

The cardinal will greet attendees and speak at the party. Guests will also enjoy an evening of fine dining and musical entertainment, along with the opportunity to meet the seminarians who are directly impacted by their contributions. Last year’s event was the most successful to-date, with a record attendance of over 350 people.

“The seminary continues to achieve stable enrollment numbers and balanced budgets which are the direct result of the support of our loyal benefactors, appreciative alumni, and dedicated faculty and staff,” said Father Peter J. Uglietto, Rector of Blessed John XXIII. “The seminary community is grateful for the support of this important fund-raising event.”

The annual lawn party benefits the formation program for 60 seminarians currently enrolled at the unique educational institution. Blessed John XXIII is the only seminary administered by diocesan priests for seminarians of at least 30 years of age. Through the work of its nearly 600 alumni priests, its influence can be felt in over 130 dioceses and religious orders locally, nationally and internationally. The proceeds from the lawn party, the premier fundraising event for the seminary, help to keep tuition costs affordable.

“We are honored to serve as chairs of this event supporting priestly vocations which are so important to the Church,” said Gretchen and Dr. John LaRossa of Newton. “The lawn party offers each one of us an opportunity to get acquainted with those preparing to serve us as parish priests and the faculty who are training them for ministry. We hope that you will join us under the tent.”

For more information or to order tickets, please email Kate Folan, Associate-Director of Institutional Advancement at kfolan@blessedjohnxxiii.edu or call 781-899-5500 ext. #110. You may also visit the “Special Events” section of the seminary website at www.blessedjohnxxiii.edu for additional information.