“To Nazarethize” both the family and the home. That was the mission of the priests at Holy Family Seminary Church. They aimed to transform society itself through devotion to the Holy Family.
Holy Family Seminary Church started with a search. In 1945, Father Martin Millet initiated a study for a center near Washington D.C. He wanted it close to the Catholic University. Fathers Joseph Ruensa and Peter Siguan led the search.
In February 1946, they found a property in Silver Spring, Maryland. It was about 12 miles from the Catholic University. Father Ruensa described it as an ideal place, sufficient for their needs. The property spanned about 30 acres. It held great promise for the future.
The purchase was official on May 13, 1946. Father Ruensa prepared it for students that fall. He became superior and rector of the new seminary. Father John Sierra was reassigned as Prefect.
The first students included Italians and a Spaniard. They studied philosophy and theology. The seminary gradually became the center of life for the Sons of the Holy Family in the United States. This transformation wasn’t instant but evolved over time.
In 1958, Father Dominic Morera moved to Silver Spring. The seminary then became the headquarters of the North American Vice Province. A decade earlier in 1946, the priests chose this location, near Washington D.C. They sought the support of varied religious communities.
In 1960, under Father Joseph Pratt, construction began on a new seminary building. The old house was insufficient for their growing needs. Father Magin Morera described it as a daring step. It would be the heart and soul of their Institute in America.
The first part of the project finished in nine months. It was blessed and inaugurated on September 3, 1960 as the new Holy Family Seminary. Father John Sierra was the main speaker. He noted the hand of the Almighty in bringing them there.
In March 1964, work began on the remaining wing, the Minor Seminary. Father Louis J. Hoffman oversaw the completion. The seminary prospered under his leadership. It became a center for theological and religious training. An office fostered devotion to the Holy Family. They published vocational materials.
The Holy Family Guild supported the seminary. Countless friends and benefactors helped over the years. In 1967, they bought property in Wolfsville, Maryland. It became Spring Lake Retreat, a Novitiate House.
The priests of Holy Family Seminary dedicated their lives. They ministered to youth and families. Many are buried in Gate of Heaven Catholic Cemetery. Their sacrifices are a testament to their service to God’s human family. Their legacy endures in the lives they touched.
Today, Holy Family Seminary Church stands as a testament. It reflects their commitment to family, faith, and community. It remains a place of devotion. It honors the Holy Family of Nazareth. It serves as a beacon of hope for families everywhere.