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Join the Journey: Stewards of the Sacred
How are the holy, compassionate leaders of tomorrow actually formed? Following our first update on the mission of our seminarians in Peru, we invite you to continue the journey with Stewards of the Sacred.
This exclusive series takes you behind the scenes to witness how your partnership shapes the future of our Church—from rigorous theological study to the selfless service of our deacons and lay leaders.
Don’t miss these powerful stories of transformation. Experience the mission firsthand—read our first two issues.
Read the first issue by clicking here.
Read the second issue by clicking here.
Read the third issue by clicking here.
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April 16, 2026
5:30pm – 9:00pm
Step into an elegant evening of inspiration, community, and purpose at the Celebration of Mundelein at the Lincolnshire Marriot Resort. Hosted by University of Saint Mary of the Lake, this premier gathering brings together friends, families, clergy, and supporters to honor those who embody the spirit of service — and to invest in the future of our seminarians.
We are thrilled to recognize Fr. Jason Malave, Pastor at Queen of Apostles, and Matt and Christi Marcheschi from FOCUS. Their unwavering commitment to faith, education, and service embodies the spirit of Mundelein Seminary.
This year we are offering some incredible live auction items. These unique experiences are available to bid on in-person during the event.
- Private Lunch and Tour of St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City with Archbishop Ronald Hicks
- Christ and the Cosmos Dinner with Fr. John Kartje
- Stars and Stripes and Mundelein: In honor of 250th birthday, an exclusive viewing of Cardinal Mundelein’s American history collection
- Dinner and the Divine in Lincoln Square: Join As Those Who Serve award recipient Fr. Jason Malave for an evening that will delight your senses and nourish your body and soul.
Learn more and purchase tickets: https://usml.edu/celebration-of-mundelein/
For information on becoming a sponsor click here.
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May 3, 2026
Please join us for a Special Mass and May Crowning at the University of Saint Mary of the Lake. Father Kartje will be the main celebrant and homilist. Following May Crowning, there will be a brunch reception.
9:30am
Mass in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception
10:30am
May Crowning in the Dowdle Garden
11:00am
Light Brunch Reception in the Dining Hall
Learn more and register to attend on our website: usml.edu/may-crowning
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Conferencia del cardenal Meyer
We were honored to host Dr. Hosffman Ospino, PhD for this year’s Cardinal Meyer Lecture on April 7 an 8. Dr. Ospino is Professor of Theology and Religious Education at Boston College, Clough School of Theology and Ministry where he is also the Chair of the Department of Religious Education and Pastoral Ministry. He is originally from Colombia, South America, and has conducted several national studies on Hispanic Catholicism.
On Tuesday, April 7 he discussed Ecclesial and Theological Wisdom from Latin America to the World, and on Wednesday, April 8 he discussed Hispanic Catholics and the Emergence of a Renewed Vision for U.S. Catholic Pastoral Life: Assessing Theologically the Legacy of the Fifth National Encuentro of Hispanic/Latino Ministry.
Watch both lectures and our faculty responses from Dr. Patricia Pintado y Dr. Paul Hilliard on our website: usml.edu/2026-cardinal-meyer-lecture
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Pope Leo XIV appoints Father Michael J. K. Fuller as “Chaplain to His Holiness.”
On March 10, 2026, the Holy See announced that Pope Leo XIV had conferred the pontifical title “Chaplain to His Holiness,” commonly known as Monsignor, on Fr. Michael J. K. Fuller (’97), the General Secretary of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). Msgr. Fuller holds an S.T.B., M.Div., S.T.L., and S.T.D. from the University of Saint Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary, where he also served as a formator and Chair of Spiritual Theology.
This conferral reflects his years of dedicated service, including his time spent here shaping the next generation of priests. His impact continues to play a vital role in our formation legacy.
We invite you to join us and pray for his ministry.
Read more:
https://bit.ly/47pYEHj
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Institution of Reader: Permanent Diaconate
On Sunday, March 15 we gathered to witness the Institution of Reader for our Permanent Deacon candidates. Through the School of Parish Leadership and Evangelization, these men, who live and work among us in our parishes, have committed themselves to a deeper study and proclamation of Holy Scripture.
As Readers, they are now officially tasked with proclaiming the Word of God in the liturgical assembly and nurturing the faith of the community. We congratulate them on this significant step in their formation!
Please join us in praying for them and their families as they continue their journey of formation and service to the People of God.
Learn more about the Archdiocese of Chicago Deacon Formation Program at
https://bit.ly/4rZRi5H
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The Suffering of Poverty and the Moral Life:
A Thomistic Perspective
Dr. Melanie Barrett, Professor of Moral Theology, published “The Suffering of Poverty and the Moral Life: A Thomistic Perspective” in the April issue of The Thomist. You can read an electronic version of the article by clicking here. She also presented a paper entitled, “A Thomist Reconsideration of the Torah for the Moral Life of Catholic Christians,” at St. Mary’s Seminary in Baltimore.
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Illinois Pro-Life March
The protection of the right to life constitutes the indispensable foundation of every other human right.” — Pope Leo XIV
On Thursday, March 19 our seminarians were out in force for the Illinois Pro-Life March in Springfield! A powerful day of prayer, witness, and community.
The joined thousands from across the Midwest and participated in the Mass for Life then marched to the State Capitol to advocate for the protection of the most vulnerable. This day of public witness is an integral part of their formation as they discern their path to the priesthood.
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Library Corner
The USML Library (usml.edu/library) is committed to serving its entire academic and religious community, providing the highest quality resources for theological research and study.
As a USML Alumnus, you now have access to three premier databases containing journal articles and book chapters on particular topics: AtlaSerials for Alumni, JSTOR for Alumni, and Project Muse. Descriptions and links to each of these resources are provided below. Questions about access to and use of these should be directed to the Library Director, Samantha Seay, sseay@usml.edu or 847-970-4833. You may also contact the library’s general information number at 847-970-4820 or AskALibrarian@usml.edu.
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Online Short Course
The Fruits and Effects of the Liturgy
Don’t just “go” to Mass—be transformed by it. Discover how the Liturgy actually changes your soul and your daily life.
Explore this online short course by clicking here.
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Lenten Reflection
On Monday, March 30, Father John Kartje led our community in a moving Lenten reflection, helping us transition into the holiest week of the year. From Mass in the chapel to shared reflection in the Dining Hall, it was an evening of peace and spiritual renewal.
Click here to view the photos.
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Reflexiones del Rector
Father John Kartje, serving as both Rector and President of the University of Saint Mary of the Lake, demonstrates his commitment to spiritual guidance through his weekly recorded sermons and reflections. With a passion for fostering a nurturing environment at the seminary, Father Kartje shares his insights and teachings, providing a source of inspiration and connection for the university community.
You can listen to his Rector Reflections on our website by clicking here. |
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Alumni Updates
Calling all alumni! We want to hear from you. Please take the opportunity to update your information for our records.
You can provide an Alumni Update on our website by clicking here. |
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