Why I Give
We at Conception are blessed to have such generous friends who make sacrifices for us daily. Watch and read testimonials from alumni, friends, family, and donors to get a glimpse into their reasons behind supporting the efforts of Conception Seminary College.
Loyal friends make impact
Though the landscape and the faces of Conception have changed over time, we are grateful for that which has remained the same: our mission of prayer, our dedication to seminary formation, and the loyal support of friends who have made such growth possible.
Jim and Marnie Weidmaier of St. Joseph, Missouri, are two such friends. When our Partnering for Future Priests (PFP) event began as a dinner auction in 2009, they were among the first attendees, and they never missed a single event following. Now, in its current form as the virtual Day of Giving, the Weidmaiers continue to stay deeply involved in the PFP efforts.
“To be good stewards of God’s blessings means to share the blessings God has given us. We have enjoyed giving to Conception for more than 20 years because we care about the future of vocations and want to do all we can to support our future priests. We always enjoy our visits and have seen how our support has been used to carry out many different projects over the years, including new buildings, library renovations, and making the Abbey a more beautiful place to study and worship our Lord. Our prayers and support help Conception Abbey go forward to meet the need for young men to become future priests and pass on our faith to the next generation.”
– Jim & Marnie Weidmaier
You all are in my daily prayers. With the world situation, we really need priests to guide us now.
-Mary R.
I pray for an increase to the priesthood and Holy consecrated life.
-Jim B.
"We believe supporting those called to the priesthood is an honor and a privilege. Hopefully, our gift will help alleviate some of the barriers for students on their journey of faith. We encourage others to support Conception Seminary in forming responsible priests of good character to continue the work of Jesus and lead us in our faith."
-Francis & Linda Mattson
"To the future priests, I love to help you. We are praying for you."
-Irma L.
"You have taken good care of the rural parishes around you and my family is eternally grateful."
-Colin S.
"If you invest in your children, as the monks invested in us seminarians, it will have a lasting impact on them for many years."
-Fr. Shane, alumnus
A word from Bill McMurray, a Partnering for Future Priests committee member and longtime friend of Conception Seminary College.
"It would be impossible to overestimate the impact the Abbey has had on our lives."
-George & Barb, oblates
"Conception is such a special place, and we are honored to have our son attend your college for four years, and his journey to the priesthood."
-Timothy F.
"Conception's contributions to my faith through theology and philosophy have left a remarkable imprint on me. I will never forget the many laughs, tears, deep talks, snowball fights, basketball tournaments, and adventures that I've had the privilege of sharing with so many men striving for the Lord."
-Brian J., alumnus
Jane Walter, grew up near Conception Abbey and holds the mission of Conception Seminary College close to her heart.