By Francisco Valdez
Archbishop Salvatore J. Cordileone dedicated a newly remodeled grotto at St. Patrick’s Seminary & University in Menlo Park on Friday, Aug. 28, prior to celebrating the seminary’s annual Mass of the Holy Spirit.
The grotto, which features images of Our Lady of Lourdes and Saint Bernadette, carries a history that extends beyond the seminary grounds. According to Martha Sheridan, director of philanthropy and special events at the seminary, the images were previously kept by the parents of Father Gary Thomas, director of the seminary’s Propaedeutic Year Program, which is the initial stage of formation for seminarians.
The grotto now provides a permanent setting for the images and a place of prayer for seminarians, faculty, staff and visitors.
For those preparing for the priesthood, the grotto offers a visible reminder of the importance of prayer and Marian devotion throughout the years of formation.
