2 minute read
A Farewell Toast
FAREWELL TOAST TO Fr. Harman
This article is adapted from the farewell toast to Fr. Harman given by Brent Durschmidt ’23 at the 2022 Closing Banquet.
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BY BRENT DURSCHMIDT ’23, ARCHDIOCESE OF PORTLAND IN OREGON
Fr. Harman, we raise our glasses to thank you for all you have done for our priestly formation as Rector of the College. You stand confidently and authentically in your identity as a priest of Jesus Christ to lead and serve as the spiritual father of this community—the one we have needed these past six-and-a-half years.
It is clear that Jesus has formed you as a man after his own heart, and you communicate that to us through your presence here. This has made it easy to trust that you have our best interests in mind as you carry out the mission of this seminary.
We know that being the Rector during this time has been no small feat—not to mention a worldwide pandemic. In navigating the ups and downs, you have always been available and willing to meet with us if we have questions about your decisions.
Your leadership and confidence have given us a great example of what it looks like to shepherd the flock entrusted to you, while keeping your eyes on the Lord. Your ability to love us with his love has left us blessed because of the man, the father, and the priest that you are for us.
Please join me in standing to raise your glasses:
In gratitude for Fr. Harman’s leadership over these last six-and-a-half years, may you may always remain close to the hearts of Jesus and Mary. From all of us at The Pontifical North American College—thank you! Ad multos annos.
top to bottom Ad multos annos—to many years! King STUAC Justin Faehrmann '23 (Sydney) and Pastoral Council Chairman Rev. Mr. Jacob Magnuson '22 (Bismarck) present Very Rev. Peter Harman '99 (Springfield in Illinois) with a parting gift - a trail sign with the distance from his home diocese to the College.; Brent Durschmidt '23 (Portland in Oregon) delivers his toast to the Rector, Very Rev. Peter Harman '99 (Springfield in Illinois).; US Ambassador to the Holy See Hon. Joseph Donnelly bids farewell to Very Rev. Peter Harman '99 (Springfield in Illinois) at a reception in the Rector's honor.
