Blessed John XXIII National Seminary will celebrate its 31st Annual Lawn Party on Sept. 19 on the grounds of the seminary in Weston. The event will be hosted by Cardinal Seán P. O'Malley.

Lawn Party guests will be among the first to view the newly-renovated seminary chapel, as they enjoy an evening of fine dining and musical entertainment. Blessed John XXIII Seminary was established in 1964 by Cardinal Richard Cushing, "for older men endowed with the necessary educational and spiritual qualities who have been called by God to His Holy Priesthood." In the almost 50-year history of the seminary, this is the first major renovation of the facility, part of "The Pathway to the Future," a $10 million capital campaign celebrating the 50th anniversary of the seminary. The campaign emphasizes facility improvements, growing its endowment and expanding its library.

"We look forward to starting a new academic year having successfully finished extensive renovations during the summer break. We are especially pleased with our new chapel -- a light-filled sacred space, which promotes both community worship and individual reflection. Our community, particularly our seminarians, will be proud to present the 'new' seminary to this year's Lawn Party attendees," said Father William B. Palardy, rector of Blessed John XXIII.

The Annual Lawn Party benefits the formation program and helps keep tuition costs affordable for the almost 70 seminarians enrolled at the seminary. Through the good works of its nearly 600 alumni priests, its influence can be felt in over 140 dioceses and religious orders locally, nationally and internationally.

Several event sponsorships are available, including the Bishop Peter J. Uglietto Society. 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.