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 Saint Clements Castle & Marina for the 2026 Holy Apostles 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 Holy Apostles College & Seminary. Bishop Richard F. Reidy of the Diocese of Norwich reflected on the Holy Apostles’ impact on the local Church, forming individuals who serve faithfully as clergy and laity. As Bishop Reidy noted, Holy Apostles 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, Rev. Msgr. Cuong M. Pham 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 Holy Apostles, Mr. O’Connor remarked, “The treasures that Holy Apostles is building up and has been building up for so long are invincible because they are in heaven. Holy Apostles 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 Holy Apostles 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 Holy Apostles’ mission to provide an affordable, high-quality education for seminarians, religious, and lay students.