Community Pathways July 2025

Community Pathways: USML’s July 2025 Newsletter

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July 2025 Newsletter

Giving

DISCOVER YOUR CALL TO LEAD AND SERVE

The School of Parish Leadership and Evangelization at the University of Saint Mary of the Lake invites you to one of our special “Come and See!” events—an opportunity to explore how God may be calling you to deepen your faith, grow as a leader, and serve His Church more effectively.

We’ll be hosting informational sessions at parishes across the Archdiocese of Chicago, where you can learn about our dynamic lay formation certificates and diaconate programs designed to equip catechists, parish ministers, and lay leaders for impactful ministry.

View upcoming Come and See dates and locations visit our website by clicking here.

RECTOR’S CLASSIC

Thursday, September 18, 2025

Join us for a day of unparalleled golf, friendship, and philanthropy at Mundelein Seminary’s annual Rector’s Classic golf outing.

The Rector’s Classic is more than just a golf outing—it’s a celebration of community and the enduring mission of Mundelein Seminary. By participating and sponsoring, you’re not just getting involved a premier event; you’re becoming part of a legacy of support that empowers seminarians to become compassionate leaders in service to the Church and the world.

At this year’s golf classic dinner, we are proud to honor Fr. Tom Franzman with the 2025 Cardinal Joseph Bernardin In Service of One Another Catholic Humanitarian Award.

Learn more, register to attend, and become a sponsor by clicking here!

OLD NO. 1 REDEDICATION

The Village of Mundelein recently honored a century of service with a meaningful rededication for historic Engine No. 1 donated by Cardinal Mundelein in 1925! This engine represents a century of sacrifice and shared responsibility for our community. It was a powerful moment at the Mundelein Community Ceremony, where we reflected on our commitment to serving others, both here and wherever help is needed.

New Course
ONLINE SHORT COURSES:
EFFECTIVE CATECHESIS

Develop the attitudes, skills, and understanding necessary to serve as effective catechists and to identify, recruit, and form others for catechetical ministry. Take this course by clicking here.

Browse our entire catalog of online short courses on our website:
https://usml.edu/sple/online-short-courses/course-catalog/

CLASS SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM

Are you interested in following the incoming Class of 2029 seminarians through their four years of seminar formation and education?

If you are interested, our Class Sponsorship Program might be a good option for you to support Mundelein Seminary. Join other class sponsors as you get to know the Class of 2029 by participating in and celebrating the special milestones they will achieve as they move toward ordination. Other opportunities throughout the year will allow you to get to know individual seminarians whom you will be supporting.

For more information, please contact Maureen McGrain, major/planned gifts officer at mmcgrain@usml.edu or 847-837-4544.

**A minimum gift amount and a four-year commitment are required.

RECTOR REFLECTIONS

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.

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.

CONSIDER MAKING YOUR GIFT TO MUNDELEIN SEMINARY/USML TAX FREE

Do you have an IRA and need to satisfy your required minimum distribution?

Are you 70 ½ years old?

Are you interested in lowering your taxable income while also supporting our future parish priests?

Join the many donors who have already chosen to make their gift to Mundelein Seminary/USML while saving on their 2025 taxes.

You may gift a total of $108,000 of your required minimum distribution (RMD) to charities including Mundelein Seminary in one calendar year. If you and your spouse file jointly, s/he may also gift a total of $108,000 from his/her IRA.

Please consult with your investment broker/financial adviser to make a direct transfer. USML Tax ID: 36-2171077

Make your gift through your IRA required minimum distribution to secure the future of the Catholic Church by supporting Mundelein Seminary/USML today!

Contact Maureen McGrain, Major/Planned Giving Officer for information.