Bishop Betancourt, Msgr. Cuong Pham, Archbishop Christopher Coyne, Very Rev. Peter Kucer, Daniel O’Connor, Regina O’Connor and Patrick, Very Rev. Martin Rooney, Bishop Richard Reidy | Photo courtesy of Phil Farnsworth

The evening brought together alumni, friends and graduates at the stunning for the 2026 �鶹���� Gala. Guests enjoyed inspiring speakers, beautiful music, a lively auction, and powerful stories. We are deeply grateful to all who attended and supported our mission, helping us nearly double support this year.

The program opened with welcoming remarks from the Very Rev. Peter S. Kucer, MSA, President-Rector of �鶹���� College & Seminary. Bishop Richard F. Reidy of the Diocese of Norwich reflected on the �鶹����’ impact on the local Church, forming individuals who serve faithfully as clergy and laity. As Bishop Reidy noted, �鶹���� is “a blessing to the Church,” both for its online students and for those who come to campus from around the world to be formed for the priesthood.

Guests also heard from the 2026 Commencement speakers, and Mr. Daniel O’Connor, who offered messages of encouragement and conviction, calling all present to live the faith with joy and enthusiasm. Reflecting on the mission of �鶹����, Mr. O’Connor remarked, “The treasures that �鶹���� is building up and has been building up for so long are invincible because they are in heaven. �鶹���� is one of the very rare places that is above all dedicated to building up its treasures in heaven.” Msgr. Pham reminded attendees that “Christ continues to call, the Church continues to respond,” and that �鶹���� participates in that call through the quiet witness of transformed lives, forming men and women in Christ for mission.

Special thanks to John Terrio of Auction Knights, Phil Farnsworth of Farnsworth Photography, and Saint Clements Charities for their outstanding hospitality and support. Proceeds from the evening directly advance �鶹����’ mission to provide an affordable, high-quality education for seminarians, religious, and lay students.

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Baccalaureate Mass begins at 10:30 am EDT
Sixty-Eighth Commencement begins at 1:00 pm EDT

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The commencement exercises will take place on Saturday, April 25, 2026, in Our Lady Queen of the Apostles Chapel on the �鶹���� campus. Festivities will begin on Thursday evening with the �鶹���� Gala held at Saint Clements Castle & Marina featuring special guest the Most Reverend Richard F. Reidy, Bishop of Norwich, and keynote addresses.

“Commencement is about both celebrating accomplishments and preparing graduates for their future mission in life,” said Fr. Peter Kucer, President-Rector of �鶹����. “In welcoming Monsignor Cuong M. Pham and Professor Daniel O’Connor, we present our graduates with two excellent witnesses—one rooted in pastoral and ecclesial service, the other in intellectual and lay apostolate—who together reflect the fullness of the Church. Their presence will challenge and encourage our students to live their vocations with fidelity, generosity, and hope.”

�鶹���� will bestow a Doctorate of Sacred Theology, honoris causa, upon Msgr. Cuong M. Pham, in recognition of his notable contributions to the faith. Msgr. Pham is a priest of the Diocese of Brooklyn whose ministry reflects devoted service to both the Universal Church and the local Church.

From July 1, 2019, to July 1, 2021, he was assigned to the Apostolic Nunciature in Washington, DC, where he served as one of the Secretaries for General Affairs, advancing the ecclesial mission of the Nunciature and assisting in matters concerning the �鶹���� See’s relationship with the bishops and the Church in the United States.

From 2011 to 2019, Msgr. Pham served at the Pontifical Council for Legislative Texts in Rome. The Council assists the �鶹���� Father in matters of canon law. During those years, he contributed to significant legislative initiatives, promoted the study and faithful application of canon law worldwide and established the first authoritative website dedicated to Church legislation and canonical discipline.

On February 11, 2016, Pope Francis named him a Chaplain of His Holiness, an honor that enrolled him among the clergy of the Papal Household and conferred upon him the title Monsignor. Appointed Pastor of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Astoria on July 10, 2021, the parish stands as one of the most vibrant and culturally diverse communities in the Diocese.

Born in Saigon, Vietnam, Msgr. Pham came to New York with his family in 1990. He attended St. John’s University in Queens before entering the seminary in Douglaston and later Huntington, New York. He was ordained to the Sacred Priesthood on June 2, 2001. Fluent in English, Italian, Spanish, and Vietnamese, with familiarity in Latin, French, and Chinese, Msgr. Pham continues to devote himself to fostering unity among cultures, strengthening parish life and encouraging vocations.

�鶹���� will bestow a Doctorate of Philosophy, honoris causa, upon Professor Daniel O’Connor in recognition of his notable contributions to the faith.

Daniel O’Connor is a professor of Philosophy and Religion who teaches undergraduates at a State University of New York Community College. He is honored to have instructed thousands of students in courses on Philosophy, Existentialism, Religion, Mathematics, and Physics.

Originally an engineer for GE Global Research doing quantum beam research, he switched careers and helped to establish the John Bosco House—a transitional home for homeless young men—where he then served the residents as a live-in house father.

Professor O’Connor is an accomplished author and speaker. He is the author of several books, including Thy Will Be Done and Only Man Bears His Image. His most recent book, First Line of Defense, aims to inspire men in their Catholic faith and was co-authored with longtime EWTN host and US Grace Force host Doug Barry. It will be published by Ignatius Press in 2026. He also writes for his personal website and is a featured guest on popular Catholic podcasts.

Daniel has an undergraduate degree from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) and obtained a Master of Arts in Theology from �鶹���� College & Seminary in 2013. He has since completed several years of study towards his PhD in Philosophy. He met his wife, Regina, at �鶹����, where she received a Bachelor of Arts in 2013. They live in New York with their six children, Joseph, David, Mary, Luisa, John Paul, and Patrick.

�鶹���� College and Seminary (www.holyapostles.edu) is a NECHE and ATS accredited college with a mission of preparing and educating seminarians, consecrated, and lay students for the New Evangelization through undergraduate and graduate programs. Students have access to faithfully Catholic, truly affordable, and fully online programs as well as residential religious programs in historic Cromwell, Connecticut. As a pioneer in online learning, �鶹���� is one of the first theological schools to offer 100% online graduate programs. Alumni and faculty of the institution include internationally recognized leaders and experts in apologetics, philosophy, and theology.

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On March 12, �鶹���� welcomed a group of alumni priests, brothers, deacons and friends for a gathering with the Most Reverend Richard F. Reidy, Bishop of Norwich, CT. Alumni from Connecticut, New Jersey, New York and Louisiana attended. It was a great opportunity for everyone to reconnect. The evening included a reception and dinner followed by exposition, benediction and night prayer.

Below are a few photos from the gathering. Photo credit to Jacqueline Marie Photography.

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Deacon Matthew Newsome (Master of Theology, 2008, and current student in the Master of Sacred Scripture program) has published a book of reflections on the Mass entitled “.” This book grew out of a series of retreat talks he has given to help ordinary Catholics understand the heavenly mysteries that take place upon the altars of their churches each time the Mass is offered, and the importance of our sacred duty to offer worship to the Almighty God. If you or someone you know has ever asked, “Why do we go to Mass, anyway? Why can’t we just worship God on our own?” this is the book to read.

Alumna Madonna Murphy, M.A. Theology 2010, has a book coming out this May 2026 with Scepter Publishers, “.” A Treasure for the Church brings together St. Josemaría’s personal, heartfelt answers to real-life questions posed during his catechetical gatherings in Spain (1972) and throughout Latin America (1974-1975). Drawn from his conversations with parents, educators, and youth, this book captures his timeless, practical advice for forming Christian character at home, in school, and in the world.

Student Jeff Plante has published his newest book, “.” It is unlike any other Catholic daily Scripture devotional; completely dedicated to the love of our neighbors. It is an ethos of Christianity…it is core to our faith…it is how we are called to live. In our daily immersion in the Word of God, specifically oriented on love of neighbor, may we grow closer to each other and, by extension, closer to Him in the process.

Student Carol D’Souza has published a new article in the Spring 2026 issue of Co‑Redemptrix magazine, titled “In You, Lord, No One Can See Your Face, But in Mary We See Your Beauty.” The magazine, produced by the Marian Franciscans of the Immaculate in England, focuses this issue on the Trinitarian‑Marian mystery, especially the relationship between Our Lady and God the Father. Carol’s contribution explores a topic that has received little theological attention, offering readers a deeper understanding of this profound and beautiful mystery. It’s a wonderful opportunity to engage with fresh scholarship on Mary’s unique place within the life of the Trinity.

Alumna Anastasia Wambeke recently had the opportunity to write, direct, and star in her very own for one of her film production classes.

Alumnus Dennis Pettit has joined the University of Dallas, Neuhaus Institute of Ministry and Evangelization, as a part-time Adjunct Instructor. Dennis graduated from �鶹���� Apistles in 2022 with a Master’s in Theology, concentration in Sacred Scripture.

Alumnus Kaleb Hammond was recently interviewed by Kiki Latimer on the WCAT program “,” about his article for the New Oxford Review entitled “Tolkien’s Insights into the Feminine Soul: Icons of the Virgin Mary in ‘The Lord of the Rings‘”, published last November. The interview was conducted on March 18. The New Liturgical Movement will also be republishing Kaleb’s article on Dom Prosper Gueranger’s Anti-Liturgical Heresy, entitled ‘The Voice of Tradition,’ originally published with Adoremus Bulletin, on Easter Wednesday.

Alumni Jonathon Fessenden and Philipp Hadden have published their newest book, through Missio Dei Catholic.

Crown of Roses is written for modern Catholics in light of the Church’s timeless teachings and sacred tradition. A book that explores the history, power, and spiritual efficacy of the Rosary. With reflections that speak to souls in every stage of the spiritual journey, and beautiful introduction by Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P., our book brings together the wisdom of Missio Dei’s own talented authors to help you fall more deeply in love with this powerful Marian prayer—through which Our Lady has promised to obtain for us all that we ask of her.

Alumna Diana Ray, MAPS 2025, accepted residency at Frederick Heath Hospital in their Clinical Pastoral Education program.

Alumna Allison LeDoux has been asked to present a keynote address on “Guardians and Servants of Human Life: Upholding the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services for the Renewal of a Culture of Life in Health Care” at the 21st annual Divine Mercy Medicine, Bioethics, and Spirituality Conference will take place April 29-May 1, 2026 at the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy in Stockbridge, MA.

Alumnus Christopher Reilly had three articles about artificial intelligence published in March: “” in Catholic World Report, “, and “” in the New Oxford Review.

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Date: Thursday, January 22
Time: 4:05 – 5:00 PM (ET)
In-Person: �鶹����’ St. Peter’s Refectory
Live Stream:

This talk is especially timely and meaningful, as it directly relates to our commitment to upholding the dignity of human life. We warmly encourage everyone to attend and to help promote this event among your students and colleagues.

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Alex Soucy, a 2023 graduate, is an example of someone living the missionary charism of evangelization that is the vision of �鶹���� College & Seminary. He is the co-founder of , an organization that brings young adults together to form communities of missionary disciples. Crossroads 4 Christ enables young adults to gather and discuss Christ in an environment that seeks to better their relationship with the Lord.

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Now, that tradition of excellence extends fully to our , marking a major moment in the life of our institution.

What the Newman Guide Recognition Means

The serves as a trusted resource for students and families seeking faithful Catholic higher education. Institutions and programs listed in the Guide are held to high standards, modeled on the Church’s vision in , Saint John Paul II’s apostolic constitution on Catholic universities.

To be listed means a program:

• Upholds Catholic moral and doctrinal teaching
• Promotes a faithful Catholic intellectual life
• Encourages virtue, prayer, and service
• Ensures faculty and curriculum remain loyal to the Magisterium

Recognition by the Cardinal Newman Society affirms that �鶹���� continues to deliver rigorous, affordable, and authentically Catholic graduate education, fully online and accessible to students around the world.

Forming Missionary Disciples for the Church and the World

At �鶹����, our mission is simple and profound: to provide faithful, affordable, and flexible Catholic formation and education in the development of leaders for evangelization. Our graduate programs are designed not just to inform minds, but to transform hearts and equip missionary disciples for the work of the New Evangelization.

We are deeply grateful to our faculty, students, staff, and donors, whose faithful witness and academic excellence made this recognition possible. And above all, we give thanks to God, trusting that through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the �鶹����, our mission will continue to flourish.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Whether you’re discerning a vocation, deepening your understanding of the faith, or preparing to serve the Church in a new capacity, now is the perfect time to explore �鶹����’ graduate programs.

Learn more about our graduate programs here
Apply now
Request information

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Professor Reilly and his wife, Rosario, joined thousands of Catholics in St. Peter’s Square for the All Saints Mass, a liturgy marked by deep beauty and reverence. During the celebration, the schola sang Lead, Kindly Light, the hymn written by Newman during a pivotal moment in his life. For Professor Reilly and The Cardinal Newman Society, the hymn remains a powerful reminder of the mission of faithful Catholic education.

Pope Leo XIV formally declared: “We… by the fullness of the apostolic power, declare Saint John Henry Newman Doctor of the Universal Church.”

This recognition affirms Newman’s lasting impact on Catholic education, especially his vision for forming students in faith, intellect, and moral witness. The declaration came just days before the �鶹���� Father released a document naming Newman co-patron of Catholic education alongside St. Thomas Aquinas.
Professor Reilly attended Vatican events as both president of The Cardinal Newman Society and an adjunct professor at �鶹���� College & Seminary.

�鶹���� is grateful for Professor Reilly’s commitment to promoting faithful Catholic education and for representing our College during this important moment in the life of the Church.

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St. Bonaventure (c. 1217–1274) was an Italian medieval Franciscan friar, cardinal, theologian, and philosopher, known as the “Seraphic Doctor” for his piety and theological writings. He served as the Minister General of the Franciscan Order and helped to mediate internal disputes within the order. His influential works include The Mind’s Road to God and the Life of St. Francis.

Born Giovanni di Fidanza, he was healed from a serious childhood illness through the prayers of St. Francis of Assisi, who foretold his future greatness. He later entered the Franciscan Order and studied in Paris, where he became a close friend of St. Thomas Aquinas.  He was appointed as the Cardinal-Bishop of Albano in 1273.  He died in 1274 while attending the Second Council of Lyon.

St. Bonaventure was canonized in 1482 and declared a Doctor of the Church in 1557 for his significant contributions to Catholic theology through his writings and study. His works are noted for their mystical and contemplative approach to spirituality and theology.

He is honored for his role in guiding the Franciscan Order and for his intellectual and spiritual contributions to the church.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Cousins, Ewert. Bonaventure and the Coincidence of Opposites. Chicago, IL: Franciscan Herald Press. 1978.
Gilson. Etienne. The Philosophy of St. Bonaventure. Paterson, NJ: St. Anthony Guild Press. 1965.
Hayes, Zachary. Works of Saint Bonaventure: Disputed Questions of the Mystery of the Trinity. Saint Bonaventure, NY: The Franciscan Institute. 1979.
Healy, Sr. Emma Therese. Works of Saint Bonaventure: Volume I. Saint Bonaventure, NY: The Franciscan Institute. 1955.
Johnson, Timothy. Bonaventure: Mystic of God’s Words. Hyde Park, NY: New City Press.1999.
Ratzinger, Joseph. The Theology of History in St. Bonaventure. Chicago, IL: Franciscan Herald Press. 1989.
Shahan, Robert W. and Kovach, Francis J. Editors. Bonaventure & Aquinas: Enduring Philosophies. Norman, OK: University of Oklahoma Press. 1976.

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