Faith Amid the Storm: IHM Seminary Honors Msgr. James Shea

Each year, the Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary hosts the Bishops and Rector Dinner, an opportunity for donors, lay ministers, and seminarians alike to gather at the Rochester International Center for an evening of faith, fellowship, and philanthropy. Thanks to the generosity of the Diocese of Winona-Rochester community and IHM Seminary supporters, this year’s dinner was another success.

On April 17, 2026, the evening began dramatically, as thunderstorms, hail, and two tornados swept through the area. During setup, Catholic Foundation staff, seminarians, and Event Center personnel took shelter in the kitchens as the tornado touched down near the Rochester Airport, less than a mile from the venue.

Despite the stormy start, the evening proceeded with grace and gratitude. Monsignor James Shea, president of the University of Mary in Bismarck, was honored with the Immaculate Heart of Mary Award. This elegant statue recognizes a bishop, priest, religious, or layperson who has made significant contributions to the formation and discernment of young people, particularly in supporting diocesan seminarians as they pursue vocations to the priesthood.

Throughout his career, Msgr. Shea has distinguished himself in numerous ways: becoming one of the youngest university presidents in the country, serving with Mother Teresa’s Missionaries of Charity at the Gift of Peace AIDS Hospice, ministering as a chaplain in various schools, and contributing to several boards of directors. His lifelong dedication to education and the formation of young people made him a fitting recipient of this year’s award.

The evening was filled with conversation, laughter, and generosity. With the largest seminary class in a decade, guests had ample opportunity to meet the men they have been supporting both spiritually and financially. Seminarians, in turn, were grateful for the chance to thank their benefactors personally.

IHM Seminary’s new rector, Father Jason Kern, hosted the evening with Bishop Robert Barron of the Diocese of Winona-Rochester. Other bishops in attendance included Bishop David Tencer of the Diocese of Reykjavik, Bishop James Powers of the Diocese of Superior, and Bishop Patrick Neary of the Diocese of St. Cloud, last year’s award recipient. The seminary also recognized Bishop Gerard Battersby of the Diocese of La Crosse and Bishop Scott Bullock of the Diocese of Rapid City, who were unable to attend due to the weather.

As keynote speaker, Msgr. Shea reflected on the importance of strong institutions in Christian life and the essential role of priests in leading parishes. He emphasized the value of seminaries like IHM, noting the importance of generous donor support and the need for formation programs that model Christ’s kingship. Attendees were moved by both his insight and his engaging sense of humor.

The dinner featured a blend of beloved traditions and new additions. IHM Seminary’s jazz ensemble, Immaculate Jazz, performed during the social hour, joined this year by a piano and strings trio. For the first time, seminary merchandise was available for purchase, and a silent auction was introduced to further engage the community in fundraising efforts.

Guests enjoyed a dinner of rosemary roasted chicken with a sundried tomato cream sauce, ham with a mustard herb glaze, and stir fry vegetables in a fried rice ring.

After dinner, Westin Gourneau, a graduating senior from the Diocese of Crookston, shared his personal journey at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary. In a particularly moving reflection on the four dimensions of formation (spiritual, intellectual, pastoral, and human), he spoke about his experiences visiting the Federal Medical Center and the Buddies Program which allowed him to interact with residents and create memories that would stay with him forever. Following his remarks, the Schola choir performed two beautiful Latin songs, Hoc Corpus by Melchor Rebledo and Non Nobis Domine by Patrick Doyle, arranged by Graham Preskett.

With over five hundred guests in attendance and over $100K raised to support the formation of seminarians, IHM Seminary extends its heartfelt gratitude to all who participated and contributed. The seminary looks forward to welcoming you to next year’s Bishops and Rector Dinner on April 16, 2027! You may look for opportunities to register as early as next January or February through the Catholic Foundation.