Roman Echoes 2026 - Volume 30, Issue 4

roman echoes THE PONTIFICAL NORTH AMERICAN COLLEGE I VOLUME 30 I ISSUE 4 I 2026

Priests Forever Page 8 Brotherhood & Prayer Page 10 Study & Service Page 13 Meet Our New Priests Page 24 The Class of 2026

Contents

11

7 Formed by Rome 7 Rome 8 Brotherhood 9 Prayer

Priests Forever

10 Study

13 Meet Our New Priests

11 Service

24 The Class of 2026

Features

5 Rector’s Corner

27 Office for Institutional Advancement

26 Voices of the College

THE PONTIFIC AL NORTH AMERICAN COLLEGE

2

The Pontifical North American College

facebook.com/PontificalNorthAmericanCollege instagram.com/pnac_rome

24 13 From the Editor There are good things happening at the College! This summer, twenty-one deacons of the Class of 2026 will be ordained as priests—many of them by the time that this issue reaches you. As our brothers return to their home dioceses for ordination, we who are still in Rome will gather in our hall lounges to watch the televised ordination Masses, to pray, and to celebrate together.

I’ve known some of these men for six years, and throughout those years, their friendship has built up my faith and my vocation. I wish you could meet them all and be edified by them as I have been! Those of you who have witnessed the many natural gifts and supernatural graces that the Lord has poured into these men—and into the Church through them—know that we can’t, in a few pages of a magazine, do justice to those gifts. Instead, in this issue, I hope we can introduce you to the twenty-one deacons engaged in formation at the College and share a glimpse of where they’ve come from, what they’ve experienced in Rome and around the world, and where they hope to follow the Lord after ordination.

They’ve served in universities and on the streets, in mountain villages and crowded cities, in foreign languages and cultures across ten years and six continents. And through all their varied experiences, they have discovered one thing in common together: A love for Jesus Christ, and a persevering desire to serve his Church as ordained priests.

Please pray for these men and for all of us. You’re in our prayers always!

With gratitude, Graham Fassero ‘27 Diocese of Richmond ROMAN ECHOES 2026 • VOLUME 30: ISSUE 4

3

Contributors EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Graham Fassero ‘27, Diocese of Richmond ASSISTANT EDITORS Liam Daigle ‘28, Diocese of Worcester Christian Howlett ‘28, Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis PHOTO EDITOR & PHOTOGRAPHER Ryan Both ‘28, Diocese of Austin

Administration

of The Pontifical North American College RECTOR Rev. Msgr. Thomas W. Powers ‘97 VICE RECTOR Rev. Michael Pratt ‘11 CARL J. PETER CHAIR OF HOMILETICS ROMAN ECHOES FACULTY LIAISON Rev. Peter John Cameron, OP DIRECTOR, CASA SANTA MARIA Rev. Msgr. William V. Millea ‘80, C‘89 DIRECTOR, INSTITUTE FOR CONTINUING THEOLOGICAL EDUCATION Rev. Edward Linton, OSB EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT Mark Randall, CFRE For more information about The Pontifical North American College, subscription questions, or to learn about ways you can financially support “America’s Seminary in Rome,” please contact Mark Randall, CFRE, Executive Director, Institutional Advancement.

Tel: (202) 541-5411 Fax: (202) 470-6211 Email: pnacdc@pnac.org Website: www.pnac.org This publication is written, edited, and photographed by the seminarians, deacons, and student priests of The Pontifical North American College.

Board of Governors

Most Rev. Robert P. Reed ‘85, Auxiliary Bishop of Boston Most Rev. John S. Bonnici ‘91, Auxiliary Bishop of New York Most Rev. William J. Waltersheid ‘92, C‘96, Auxiliary Bishop of Pittsburgh Most Rev. Adam J. Parker ‘00 (Secretary), Auxiliary Bishop of Baltimore Most Rev. James F. Checchio ‘92, C‘97 (Treasurer), Archbishop of New Orleans Most Rev. Daniel E. Thomas C‘90, Bishop of Toledo Most Rev. Robert J. McClory ‘99, Bishop of Gary Most Rev. Scott E. Bullock ‘91, Bishop of Rapid City Most Rev. John E. Keehner C‘99, Bishop of Sioux City Most Rev. Steven J. Lopes ‘01, C‘05, Bishop of the Personal Ordinariate of the Chair of Saint Peter Most Rev. Kevin W. Vann C‘85, ICTE F‘99, Bishop of Orange in California Most Rev. Austin A. Vetter ‘93 (Chair), Bishop of Helena Most Rev. Gregory W. Gordon ‘87, Auxiliary Bishop of Las Vegas Most Rev. Frank Dewane ‘88, C‘89 (Vice Chair), Bishop of Venice in Florida Most Rev. William C. Skurla, Archbishop of the Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh

RECTOR’S CORNER Dear Friend of the Pontifical North American College, Featured in this edition of Roman Echoes are men from the Class of 2026 who are finishing their fourth year of formation at the College and preparing for priestly ordination this summer. It is a special class for me, as we arrived here in Rome together in 2022: they as “New Men” and I as the new Rector.

Visitors to the seminary often tell me, “Send us back good, holy priests.” I can say with confidence that, thanks to the Lord’s grace and the docility of these men to the Holy Spirit, we will be doing just that.

COVER: Members of the Class of 2026 recess from Mass after their ordination to the diaconate on October 2, 2025, at the Papal Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican.

OPPOSITE PAGE: The Most Rev. Joseph G. Hanefeldt ‘84 ordains Rev. Mr. Patrick Ernst ‘26 (Fort Wayne– South Bend) to the diaconate.

BACK COVER: Noah Huddleston ‘26 (Grand Island), Mateusz Puzanowski ‘26 (Providence), Reed Robinson ‘26 (Nashville), and Mitchell Schumann ‘26 (Galveston–Houston) tour the barracks of the Swiss Guard in August 2022.

Those “New Men” who landed at Leonardo da Vinci Airport on that hot July day (103° Fahrenheit!) four years ago were eager and excited, but also unsure of what this Roman adventure would look like. Most had never been to the College—or to Europe, for that matter—and the majority would not return home until after completing two full years of seminary formation. Far from family and familiar surroundings, they would have to forge new friendships in Christ and face the challenges of moving to a foreign country together.

I am immensely proud of these deacons, who are now well accustomed to life in Rome and who have grown humanly, spiritually, intellectually, and pastorally. During these years of priestly formation, their hearts have been configured to Jesus, they have experienced the Universal Church up close and personally, and they have grown in the virtues essential for a priest. These deacons are well prepared for priestly ministry, and they are also eager to begin serving as priests: “Priests Forever.”

Visitors to the seminary from the United States often tell me, “Send us back good, holy priests.” I can say with confidence that, thanks to the Lord’s grace and the docility of these fourth-year men to the Holy Spirit, we will be doing just that. (Spoiler alert: The same can be said of the first-, second-, third-, and fifth-year men!)

Be sure of our prayers for you and for your intentions, and please pray for our entire seminary community: formation team, student priests, deacons, seminarians, and staff.

God bless you!

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Rev. Msgr. Thomas W. Powers ‘97 Rector

ROMAN ECHOES 2026 • VOLUME 30: ISSUE 4

5

The Class of 2026 Twenty-one men of the Class of 2026 will be ordained as priests of Jesus Christ this summer. Together, as friends and pilgrims in the heart of the Church, they have been formed by Rome, with its unique opportunities for brotherhood, prayer, study, and service.

top: Members of the Class of 2026 enjoy the Roman skyline from the roof of the College. bottom left to right: Kaleb Mitchell ‘26 (Helena) meet Pope Francis in August 2023; Tristan Schubert ‘26 (Portland in Oregon) and Michael Figura ‘26 (Omaha) prepare to welcome guests to the Rector’s Dinner in April 2024.

6

The Pontifical North American College

Rome In Rome, they met two popes, spoke with delegates to the 2023-2024 Synod of Bishops, welcomed pilgrims for the 2025 Jubilee, hosted cardinals for the 2025 conclave, served at the funeral of Pope Francis and the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV, and were ordained deacons at the Papal Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican.

FORMED BY ROME — THE CLASS OF 2026 left: Members of the Class of 2026 process into Mass for their ordination to the diaconate on October 2nd, 2025, at the Papal Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican. right top to bottom: Jacob Derry ‘26 (Lansing) and Charles DeReuil II ‘26 (Saint Paul and Minneapolis) assist Robert Cardinal Prevost at Mass at the College before his election as Pope Leo XIV; Members of the Class of 2026 pray together in Saint Peter’s Square.

ROMAN ECHOES 2026 • VOLUME 30: ISSUE 4

7

Brotherhood As brothers, they grew in friendship, encouraged each other in their strengths and shortcomings, and deepened their appreciation for God’s work in their lives. They experienced firsthand what it is to be a foreigner and what a gift it is to be received with kindness. They learned to live and work with people of diverse cultures, to communicate across language barriers, and how to practice hospitality. They became leaders, directing the communal, liturgical, academic, and charitable activities of the seminary.

top: Rev. Mr. Brendan Parlett ‘26 (Washington) enters through the holy doors of the Papal Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican. bottom left to right: Lucas Folan ‘26 (Paterson) and Noah Huddleston ‘26 (Grand Island) star in the College’s production of Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery in April 2024; Rev. Mr. Mauricio Romero ‘26 (San Angelo) plays guitar after the College’s personale pranzo in December 2025; Rev. Mr. Thomas Johnson ‘26 (Great Falls–Billings) and Rev. Mr. Michael Figura ‘26 (Omaha) look on during the College’s annual basketball tournament.

8

The Pontifical North American College

Prayer As men of prayer, they encountered God in the Sacraments, in silence, in daily adoration, and in the Scriptures.

They visited churches across Italy, Europe, and beyond, finding the Holy Spirit at work in the art, traditions, and faith of cultures around the world. They knelt at holy sites where apostles preached the Good News, where martyrs suffered for Christ, and where Mary appeared to her children. Four times they made their annual retreats, praying in silence and seeking the Lord together.

F O R M E D BY R O M E — B R O T H E R H O O D & P R AY E R top: Rev. Mr. Michael Figura ‘26 (Omaha) distributes Communion at the Papal Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican. bottom left to right: Rev. Mr. Charles Warner ‘26 (Saginaw) and Rev. Mr. Nicholas Waldron ‘26 (Rockville Centre) make a joke during the College’s Saint Patrick’s Day party; Members of the Class of 2026 pray at the tomb of Saint Peter during their new-man orientation in August 2022.

ROMAN ECHOES 2026 • VOLUME 30: ISSUE 4

9

Study As students, they learned from religious, priests, and laypeople from around the world. With men and women from six continents, they discussed and experienced the universality of the Church. They attended six different universities, exploring the diverse traditions that illuminate the Church’s catholicity. After three years of general theological studies, they continued with specializations in dogma, canon law, scripture, morals, liturgy, spirituality, sacred art, and patristic theology.

top: Charles Warner ‘26 (Saginaw) shares with classmates during a formation session at the College. bottom left to right: Ms. Peggy Noonan addresses the College in March 2024; Rev. Anthony Giambrone, O.P., speaks to seminarians at the College in April 2024; Deacon Warner talks with parishioners at Aviano Air Base.

10

The Pontifical North American College

Service As servants, they ministered to the homeless on the streets of the city, fed refugees seeking shelter in Italy, cared for the elderly who had no family to attend to them, clothed the poor, and catechized prisoners. They shared the Gospel with visitors to the holy sites, they taught children in parish churches, they encouraged college students on local campuses, and they preached to military families deployed far from home.

FORMED BY ROME — STUDY & SERVICE top: Reed Robinson ‘26 (Nashville; left) and Steven Lang ‘26 (Saint Paul and Minneapolis; second from right) pose with college students after competing in the College’s Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot in November 2024. bottom left to right: Rev. Mr. Kyle Lang ‘26 (La Crosse) hosts guests for Thanksgiving dinner in November 2025; Deacon Warner speaks to a parish youth group during a pilgrimage hike in the Alps near Spiazzi, Italy; Reed Robinson congratulates an opponent after a soccer game between the College and the Pontifical Ukrainian College in March 2023.

ROMAN ECHOES 2026 • VOLUME 30: ISSUE 4

11

Ordination Twenty-one men of the Class of 2026 will be ordained this summer. After four years of brotherhood and prayer, study and service—in Rome, across Europe, and around the world—they have been formed for one thing: to love Jesus Christ. As they enter into their sacramental vocations in the ministerial priesthood, please pray for them, that they and those whom they serve may grow closer to Christ every day.

12

The Pontifical North American College

Members of the Class of 2026 recess from Mass after their ordination to the diaconate on October 2, 2025, at the Papal Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican.

Rev. Mr. Charles DeReuil II

ARCHDIOCESE OF SAINT PAUL AND MINNEAPOLIS Reverend Mr. Charles DeReuil II ‘26 will be ordained a priest of Jesus Christ by the Most Reverend Bernard A. Hebda ‘89, Archbishop of Saint Paul and Minneapolis, on May 30th at the Cathedral of Saint Paul in Saint Paul, Minnesota. He will celebrate his first Mass the following day at his home parish, Saint Joseph Catholic Church in West Saint Paul.

Deacon DeReuil began his formation in 2018 at Saint John Vianney College Seminary in Saint Paul. He came to Rome in 2022, where he earned a Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas in 2025. For the past year, he has studied Dogmatic Theology at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas.

After ordination, Deacon DeReuil will return to the College to finish his Licentiate in Dogmatic Theology before returning home to continue his priestly ministry in the service of the Church. n

Rev. Mr. Jacob Derry DIOCESE OF LANSING

Reverend Mr. Jacob Derry ‘26 will be ordained a priest of Jesus Christ by the Most Reverend Earl Boyea ‘77, C‘80, Bishop of Lansing, on June 6th at Saint Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in East Lansing, Michigan. He will celebrate his first Mass the following day at his home parish, Saint John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Fenton.

PRIESTS FOREVER

While at the College, Deacon DeReuil spent three years leading tours of Saint Peter’s necropolis, teaching pilgrims about the early history of the Church in Rome. He also spent two years ministering to college students at the Rome campus of the University of Dallas. During his summer breaks, Deacon DeReuil has served in parishes in Villasalto, Sardinia, and in his home diocese.

Deacon Derry began his formation in 2020 at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit. He came to Rome in 2022, where he earned a Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University in 2025. For the past year, he has studied Biblical Theology at the Pontifical Gregorian University.

While at the College, Deacon Derry spent two years ministering to the homeless and to the elderly with the Little Sisters of the Poor. He also spent two years ministering to college students at the Rome campus of Christendom College. During his summer breaks, Deacon Derry has served with the Cenacolo Community in Saluzzo, Italy; with the Philos Project in the Holy Land; at World Youth Day in Portugal; and in parishes in his home diocese.

After ordination, Deacon Derry will return to the College to finish his Licentiate in Biblical Theology before returning home to continue his priestly ministry in the service of the Church. n ROMAN ECHOES 2026 • VOLUME 30: ISSUE 4

13

Rev. Mr. Patrick Ernst DIOCESE OF FORT WAYNE–SOUTH BEND

Reverend Mr. Patrick Ernst ‘26 will be ordained a priest of Jesus Christ by the Most Reverend Kevin C. Rhoades ‘83, C‘88, Bishop of Fort Wayne– South Bend, on June 6th at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He will celebrate his first Mass the following day at his home parish, Saint Pius X Catholic Church in Granger.

Deacon Ernst began his formation in 2020 at Mount Saint Mary’s Seminary in Emmitsburg, Maryland. He came to Rome in 2022, where he earned a Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University in 2025. For the past year, he has studied Spiritual Theology at the Pontifical Gregorian University.

While at the College, Deacon Ernst spent two years ministering to refugees with the Jesuit Refugee Service at Centro Astalli. He also spent two years ministering to college students at the Rome campus of Duquesne University.

During his summer breaks, Deacon Ernst has served at a summer camp with the Salesian Fathers in Pordenone, Italy, and in parishes in his home diocese.

After ordination, Deacon Ernst will return to the College to finish his Licentiate in Spiritual Theology before returning home to continue his priestly ministry in the service of the Church. n

Rev. Mr. Michael Figura ARCHDIOCESE OF OMAHA

Reverend Mr. Michael Figura ‘26 will be ordained a priest of Jesus Christ by the Most Reverend Michael G. McGovern, ICTE F‘15, Archbishop of Omaha, on June 6th at Saint Cecilia Cathedral in Omaha, Nebraska. He will celebrate his first Mass the following day at his home parish, Saint Stephen the Martyr Catholic Church in Omaha.

Deacon Figura began his formation in 2019 at Saint John Vianney College Seminary in Saint Paul, Minnesota. He came to Rome in 2022, where he earned a Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University in 2025. For the past year, he has studied Moral Theology at the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross.

While at the College, Deacon Figura spent two years ministering to inmates, especially those far from home, at Regina Coeli Prison. He also spent a year ministering to American families at Aviano Air Base. During his summer breaks, Deacon Figura has served at the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes and in parishes in his home diocese.

After ordination, Deacon Figura will return to the College to finish his Licentiate in Moral Theology before returning home to continue his priestly ministry in the service of the Church. n 14

The Pontifical North American College

Rev. Mr. Lucas Folan DIOCESE OF PATERSON

Reverend Mr. Lucas Folan ‘26 will be ordained a priest of Jesus Christ by the Most Reverend Kevin J. Sweeney, Bishop of Paterson, on June 13th at the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist in Paterson, New Jersey. He will celebrate his first Mass the following day at his home parish, Notre Dame of Mount Carmel Catholic Church in Cedar Knolls.

Deacon Folan began his formation in 2021 at Immaculate Conception Seminary at Seton Hall in South Orange, New Jersey. He came to Rome in 2023, where he earned a Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas in 2025. For the past year, he has studied Dogmatic Theology at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas.

After ordination, Deacon Folan will return to the College to finish his Licentiate in Dogmatic Theology before returning home to continue his priestly ministry in the service of the Church. n

Rev. Mr. Stephen Howard ARCHDIOCESE OF SYDNEY

Reverend Mr. Stephen Howard ‘26 will be ordained a priest of Jesus Christ by the Most Reverend Anthony Fisher, O.P., Archbishop of Sydney, on August 8th at Saint Mary’s Cathedral in Sydney, Australia. He will celebrate his first Mass the following day at Saint Catherine Labouré Catholic Church in Gymea.

PRIESTS FOREVER

While at the College, Deacon Folan spent a year ministering to refugees with the Jesuit Refugee Service at Centro Astalli. He also spent two years ministering to college students at the Rome campus of Saint John’s University. During his summer breaks, Deacon Folan has served in parishes in his home diocese.

Deacon Howard began his formation in 2019 at the Seminary of the Good Shepherd in Homebush, Australia. He came to Rome in 2022, where he earned a Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology from the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross in 2025. For the past year, he has studied the cultural heritage of the Church at the Pontifical Gregorian University.

While at the College, Deacon Howard spent two years leading tours of Saint Peter’s necropolis, teaching pilgrims about the early history of the Church in Rome. He also spent two years ministering to parishioners at Saint Patrick’s Parish in Rome. During his summer breaks, Deacon Howard has served in the Holy Land, at World Youth Day in Portugal, and in parishes in England and in his home diocese.

Members of the Class of 2026 lie prostrate during their ordination to the diaconate on October 2, 2025, at the Papal Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican.

After ordination, Deacon Howard will return to the College to finish his Licentiate in the cultural heritage of the Church before returning home to continue his priestly ministry in the service of the Church. n ROMAN ECHOES 2026 • VOLUME 30: ISSUE 4

15

Rev. Mr. Noah Huddleston DIOCESE OF GRAND ISLAND

Reverend Mr. Noah Huddleston ‘26 will be ordained a priest of Jesus Christ by the Most Reverend Joseph G. Hanefeldt ‘84, Bishop of Grand Island, on May 29th at the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Grand Island, Nebraska. He will celebrate his first Mass the following day at Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Humphrey.

Deacon Huddleston began his formation in 2019 at Conception Seminary College in Conception, Missouri. He came to Rome in 2022, where he earned a Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University in 2025. For the past year, he has studied Liturgical Theology at the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross.

While at the College, Deacon Huddleston spent two years ministering to the homeless and to the elderly with the Little Sisters of the Poor. He also spent two years ministering to American families at Aviano Air Base. During his summer breaks, Deacon Huddleston has served with the Servant Priests and Brothers of the Home of the Mother in Ireland and in Spain, and in parishes in his home diocese.

After ordination, Deacon Huddleston will return to the College to finish his Licentiate in Liturgical Theology before returning home to continue his priestly ministry in the service of the Church. n

Rev. Mr. Thomas Johnson DIOCESE OF GREAT FALLS–BILLINGS

Reverend Mr. Thomas Johnson ‘26 will be ordained a priest of Jesus Christ by the Most Reverend Jeffrey M. Fleming, Bishop of Great Falls–Billings, on June 25th at Saint Patrick Co-Cathedral in Billings, Montana. He will celebrate his first Mass the following day at the co-cathedral, his home parish.

Deacon Johnson began his formation in 2019 at Mount Angel Seminary in Saint Benedict, Oregon. He came to Rome in 2022, where he earned a Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas in 2025. For the past year, he has studied Canon Law at the Pontifical Gregorian University.

While at the College, Deacon Johnson spent two years leading tours of Saint Peter’s Basilica, teaching pilgrims about the faith. He also spent two years ministering to college students at the Rome campus of the University of Dallas. During his summer breaks, Deacon Johnson has served in parishes in Chesterfield, England, and in his home diocese.

After ordination, Deacon Johnson will return to the College to finish his Licentiate in Canon Law before returning home to continue his priestly ministry in the service of the Church. n North American 1616 The ThePontifical Pontifical North AmericanCollege College

Rev. Mr. Thomas Kollasch DIOCESE OF SIOUX CITY

Reverend Mr. Thomas Kollasch ‘26 will be ordained a priest of Jesus Christ by the Most Reverend John E. Keehner C‘99, Bishop of Sioux City, on June 27th at the Cathedral of the Epiphany in Sioux City, Iowa. He will celebrate his first Mass the following day at his home parish, Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church in Bancroft.

Deacon Kollasch began his formation in 2020 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary in Winona, Minnesota. He came to Rome in 2022, where he earned a Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University in 2025. For the past year, he has studied Biblical Theology at the Pontifical Gregorian University.

After ordination, Deacon Kollasch will return to the College to finish his Licentiate in Biblical Theology before returning home to continue his priestly ministry in the service of the Church. n

Rev. Mr. Kyle Lang DIOCESE OF LA CROSSE

Reverend Mr. Kyle Lang ‘26 will be ordained a priest of Jesus Christ by the Most Reverend Gerard W. Battersby C‘11, Bishop of La Crosse, on June 27th at the Cathedral of Saint Joseph the Workman in La Crosse, Wisconsin. He will celebrate his first Mass that evening at the cathedral.

PRIESTS FOREVER

While at the College, Deacon Kollasch spent two years ministering to college students at the Rome campus of the Catholic University of America. He also spent two years ministering to parishioners at Santa Galla Parish in Rome.

During his summer breaks, Deacon Kollasch has served with the Philos Project in the Holy Land, with the Missionaries of Charity in London, at World Youth Day in Portugal, and in parishes in his home diocese.

Deacon Lang began his formation in 2021 at Saint Francis de Sales Seminary in Milwaukee. He came to Rome in 2022, where he earned a Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology from the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross in 2025.

For the past year, he has studied Patristic Theology at the Augustinian Patristic Pontifical Institute.

While at the College, Deacon Lang spent four years ministering to college students at the Rome campuses of Ave Maria University and Thomas More College. During his summer breaks, Deacon Lang has served in an orphanage in Peru and in parishes in his home diocese.

After ordination, Deacon Lang will remain in his diocese as associate pastor of three parishes and chaplain to the Newman Center at the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire. He will also assist in providing sacraments for the local Spanish-speaking community. n The Ponte Giuseppe Mazzini, seen from the Lungotevere Gianicolense.

ROMAN ECHOES 2026 • VOLUME 30: ISSUE 4

17

Rev. Mr. Steven Lang ARCHDIOCESE OF SAINT PAUL AND MINNEAPOLIS

Reverend Mr. Steven Lang ‘26 will be ordained a priest of Jesus Christ by the Most Reverend Bernard A. Hebda ‘89, Archbishop of Saint Paul and Minneapolis, on May 30th at the Cathedral of Saint Paul in Saint Paul, Minnesota.

He will celebrate his first Mass the following day at his home parish, the Church of Saint Michael in Stillwater.

Deacon Lang began his formation in 2018 at Saint John Vianney College Seminary in Saint Paul. He came to Rome in 2022, where he earned a Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas in 2025. For the past year, he has studied Spiritual Theology at the Pontifical Theological Faculty Teresianum.

While at the College, Deacon Lang spent two years leading tours of Saint Peter’s Basilica, teaching pilgrims about the faith. He also spent two years ministering to college students at the Rome campus of the University of Mary.

During his summer breaks, Deacon Lang has served with the Missionaries of Charity in London, with the Legionaries of Christ in Jerusalem, and in a parish in his home diocese.

After ordination, Deacon Lang will return to the College to finish his Licentiate in Spiritual Theology before returning home to continue his priestly ministry in the service of the Church. n

Rev. Mr. Andrew Messer DIOCESE OF TOLEDO

Reverend Mr. Andrew Messer ‘26 will be ordained a priest of Jesus Christ by the Most Reverend Daniel E. Thomas C‘90, Bishop of Toledo, on June 27th at his home parish, Saint Joan of Arc Catholic Church, in Toledo, Ohio. He will celebrate his first Mass there the following day.

Deacon Messer began his formation in 2019 at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit, Michigan. He came to Rome in 2021, where he earned a Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University in 2024. For the past year, he has studied Biblical Theology at the Pontifical Gregorian University.

While at the College, Deacon Messer spent two years ministering to refugees with the Jesuit Refugee Service at Centro Astalli. He also spent two years ministering to parishioners at Saint Patrick’s and Santa Galla parishes in Rome and to college students at the Rome campus of the Catholic University of America. During his summer breaks, Deacon Messer has served at a summer camp with the Salesian Fathers in Pordenone, Italy; served Ukrainian refugees in Kraków; and served in parishes in his home diocese.

After ordination, Deacon Messer will return to the College to finish his Licentiate in Biblical Theology before returning home to continue his priestly ministry in the service of the Church. n North American 1818 The ThePontifical Pontifical North AmericanCollege College

Rev. Mr. Kaleb Mitchell DIOCESE OF HELENA

Reverend Mr. Kaleb Mitchell ‘26 will be ordained a priest of Jesus Christ by the Most Reverend Austin A. Vetter ‘93, Bishop of Helena, on June 18th at the Cathedral of Saint Helena in Helena, Montana. He will celebrate his first Mass the following day at the cathedral.

Deacon Mitchell began his formation in 2019 at Saint John Vianney Theological Seminary in Denver, Colorado. He came to Rome in 2022, where he earned a Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas in 2025. For the past year, he has studied Canon Law at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas.

After ordination, Deacon Mitchell will return to the College to finish his Licentiate in Canon Law before returning home to continue his priestly ministry in the service of the Church. n

Rev. Mr. Brendan Parlett ARCHDIOCESE OF WASHINGTON

Reverend Mr. Brendan Parlett ‘26 will be ordained a priest of Jesus Christ by His Eminence Robert Cardinal McElroy C‘86, Archbishop of Washington, on June 20th at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. He will celebrate his first Mass the following day at his home parish, Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Bowie, Maryland.

PRIESTS FOREVER

While at the College, Deacon Mitchell spent two years ministering to the poor with the Missionaries of Charity at San Gregorio Home for Men. He also spent two years ministering to college students at the Rome campus of the University of Mary. During his summer breaks, Deacon Mitchell has served at an orphanage in Kenya, with the Philos Project in the Holy Land, and at a summer camp and a parish in his home diocese.

Deacon Parlett began his formation in 2020 at Saint John Paul II Seminary in Washington, D.C. He came to Rome in 2022, where he earned a Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University in 2025. For the past year, he has studied Dogmatic Theology at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas.

While at the College, Deacon Parlett spent two years ministering to the poor with the Missionaries of Charity at San Gregorio Home for Men. He also spent two years ministering to parishioners at Saint Patrick’s Parish in Rome.

During his summer breaks, Deacon Parlett has served with the Philos Project in the Holy Land and in parishes in his home diocese.

After ordination, Deacon Parlett will return to the College to finish his Licentiate in Dogmatic Theology before returning home to continue his priestly ministry in the service of the Church. n The Barberini Gardens at Castel Gandolfo.

ROMAN ECHOES 2026 • VOLUME 30: ISSUE 4

19

Rev. Mr. Mateusz Puzanowski DIOCESE OF PROVIDENCE

Reverend Mr. Mateusz Puzanowski ‘26 will be ordained a priest of Jesus Christ by the Most Reverend Bruce A. Lewandowski, C.Ss.R., Bishop of Providence, on June 27th at the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul in Providence, Rhode Island. He will celebrate his first Mass the following day at his home parish, Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church in Central Falls.

Deacon Puzanowski began his formation in 2020 at Our Lady of Providence Seminary in Providence, Rhode Island. He came to Rome in 2022, where he earned a Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas in 2025. For the past year, he has studied Canon Law at the Pontifical Gregorian University.

While at the College, Deacon Puzanowski spent two years serving with the Missionaries of Charity to feed the homeless of Rome. He also spent two years ministering to college students at the Rome campus of Duquesne University. During his summer breaks, Deacon Puzanowski has served at the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes and in parishes in his home diocese.

After ordination, Deacon Puzanowski will remain in his diocese to begin his priestly ministry in the service of the Church. n

Rev. Mr. Reed Robinson DIOCESE OF NASHVILLE

Reverend Mr. Reed Robinson ‘26 will be ordained a priest of Jesus Christ by the Most Reverend J. Mark Spalding, Bishop of Nashville, on June 12th at the Cathedral of the Incarnation in Nashville, Tennessee. He will celebrate his first Mass the following day at his home parish, Saint Mary of the Seven Sorrows Catholic Church in Nashville.

Deacon Robinson began his formation in 2018 at Holy Trinity Seminary in Irving, Texas. He came to Rome in 2022, where he earned a Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas in 2025. For the past year, he has studied Dogmatic Theology at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas.

While at the College, Deacon Robinson spent two years leading tours of Saint Peter’s necropolis, teaching pilgrims about the early history of the Church in Rome. He also spent two years ministering to college students at the Rome campus of the University of Notre Dame. During his summer breaks, Deacon Robinson has served with the Cenacolo Community in Hanceville, Alabama, and in parishes in Chesterfield, England, and in his home diocese.

After ordination, Deacon Robinson will return to the College to finish his Licentiate in Dogmatic Theology before returning home to continue his priestly ministry in the service of the Church. n North American 2020 The ThePontifical Pontifical North AmericanCollege College

Rev. Mr. Mauricio Romero DIOCESE OF SAN ANGELO

Reverend Mr. Mauricio Romero ‘26 will be ordained a priest of Jesus Christ by the Most Reverend Michael J. Sis ‘86, C‘90, ICTE F‘05, Bishop of San Angelo, on June 20th at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in San Angelo, Texas. He will celebrate his first Mass the following day at his home parish, Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in Odessa.

Deacon Romero began his formation in 2017 at Conception Seminary College in Conception, Missouri. He came to Rome in 2021, where he earned a Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University in 2024. For the past year, he has studied Dogmatic Theology at the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross.

After ordination, Deacon Romero will return to the College to finish his Licentiate in Dogmatic Theology before returning home to continue his priestly ministry in the service of the Church. n

Rev. Mr. Tristan Schubert ARCHDIOCESE OF PORTLAND IN OREGON

Reverend Mr. Tristan Schubert ‘26 will be ordained a priest of Jesus Christ by the Most Reverend Alexander K. Sample C‘96, Archbishop of Portland in Oregon, on June 20th at Saint Mary’s Cathedral in Portland, Oregon. He will celebrate his first Mass the following day at his home parish, Saint Juan Diego Catholic Church in Portland.

PRIESTS FOREVER

While at the College, Deacon Romero spent four years ministering to Spanish-speaking parishioners at Santa Maria in Monserrato Parish in Rome.

During his summer breaks, Deacon Romero has served in parishes in his home diocese and studied Christian mysticism in Ávila, Spain.

Deacon Schubert began his formation in 2019 at Mount Angel Seminary in Saint Benedict, Oregon. He came to Rome in 2021, where he earned a Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University in 2024. For the past year, he has studied Moral Theology at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas.

While at the College, Deacon Schubert spent two years leading tours of Saint Peter’s necropolis, teaching pilgrims about the early history of the Church in Rome. He also spent two years ministering to college students at the Rome campus of the University of Notre Dame. During his summer breaks, Deacon Schubert has served in parishes near Turin, Italy, and in his home diocese.

After ordination, Deacon Schubert will return to the College to finish his Licentiate in Moral Theology before returning home to continue his priestly ministry in the service of the Church. n The Good Shepherd stands in a cortile at the Casa Santa Maria.

ROMAN ECHOES 2026 • VOLUME 30: ISSUE 4

21

Rev. Mr. Mitchell Schumann ARCHDIOCESE OF GALVESTON–HOUSTON

Reverend Mr. Mitchell Schumann ‘26 will be ordained a priest of Jesus Christ by the Most Reverend Joe S. Vásquez ‘84, Archbishop of Galveston– Houston, on June 6th at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Houston, Texas. He will celebrate his first Mass the following day at his home parish, Saint Ignatius of Loyola Catholic Church in Spring.

Deacon Schumann began his formation in 2020 at Holy Trinity Seminary in Irving, Texas. He came to Rome in 2022, where he earned a Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University in 2025. For the past year, he has studied Canon Law at the Pontifical Gregorian University.

While at the College, Deacon Schumann spent two years ministering to Spanish-speaking parishioners at Santa Maria in Monserrato Parish in Rome. He also spent two years ministering to parishioners at Saint Patrick’s Parish in Rome. During his summer breaks, Deacon Schumann has served with the Philos Project in the Holy Land and in parishes in his home diocese.

After ordination, Deacon Schumann will return to the College to finish his Licentiate in Canon Law before returning home to continue his priestly ministry in the service of the Church. n

Rev. Mr. Nicholas Waldron DIOCESE OF ROCKVILLE CENTRE

Reverend Mr. Nicholas Waldron ‘26 will be ordained a priest of Jesus Christ by the Most Reverend John O. Barres C‘89, Bishop of Rockville Centre, on June 20th at Saint Agnes Cathedral in Rockville Centre, New York. He will celebrate his first Mass the following day at Saint Brigid Catholic Church in Westbury.

Deacon Waldron began his formation in 2016 at Cathedral Seminary House of Formation in Queens, New York, and at Theological College in Washington, D.C., where he completed a Licentiate in Philosophy. He came to Rome in 2021, where he earned a Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University in 2024. For the past year, he has studied Moral Theology at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas.

While at the College, Deacon Waldron spent a year leading tours of Saint Peter’s Basilica, teaching pilgrims about the faith. He also spent two years ministering to college students at the Rome campuses of Duquesne University and the Catholic University of America. During his summer breaks, Deacon Waldron has served in parishes in Melbourne, Australia, and in his home diocese.

After ordination, Deacon Waldron will return to the College to finish his Licentiate in Moral Theology before returning home to continue his priestly ministry in the service of the Church. n North American 2222 The ThePontifical Pontifical North AmericanCollege College

Rev. Mr. Charles Warner DIOCESE OF SAGINAW

Reverend Mr. Charles Warner ‘26 will be ordained a priest of Jesus Christ by the Most Reverend Robert D. Gruss ‘94, Bishop of Saginaw, on June 19th at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw, Michigan. He will celebrate his first Mass the following day at his home parish, Saint John Vianney Catholic Church in Saginaw.

Deacon Warner began his formation in 2020 at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit. He came to Rome in 2022, where he earned a Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas in 2025. For the past year, he has studied Liturgical Theology at the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross.

After ordination, Deacon Warner will return to the College to finish his Licentiate in Liturgical Theology before returning home to continue his priestly ministry in the service of the Church. n

PRIESTS FOREVER

While at the College, Deacon Warner spent two years leading tours of Saint Paul’s Basilica, teaching pilgrims about the faith. He also spent two years ministering to American families at Aviano Air Base. During his summer breaks, Deacon Warner has served with the Missionaries of Charity in Nepal and in parishes in Nepal and in his home diocese.

The latest news and photos from Rome.

Over 15,000 followers, fans, and friends – join us!

facebook.com/PontificalNorthAmericanCollege instagram.com/pnac_rome

Pope Francis leads the Sunday Angelus in August 2022.

ROMAN ECHOES 2026 • VOLUME 30: ISSUE 4

23

THE CLAS T H E

North American 2424 The ThePontifical Pontifical North AmericanCollege College

P O N T I F I C A L

N O R T

standing, left to right: Rev. Mr. Charles Warner ‘26 (Saginaw); Rev. Mr. Thomas Johnson ‘26 (Great Falls–Billings); Rev. Mr. Patrick Ernst ‘26 (Fort Wayne–South Bend); Rev. Mr. Steven Lang ‘26 (Saint Paul and Minneapolis); Rev. Mr. Thomas Kollasch ‘26 (Sioux City); Rev. Mr. Stephen Howard ‘26 (Sydney); Rev. Mr. Reed Robinson ‘26 (Nashville); Rev. Mr. Mateusz Puzanowski ‘26 (Providence); Rev. Mr. Noah Huddleston ‘26 (Grand Island); Rev. Mr. Kyle Lang ‘26 (La Crosse); Rev. Mr. Kaleb Mitchell ‘26 (Helena); Rev. Mr. Nicholas Waldron ‘26 (Rockville Centre); Rev. Mr. Charles DeReuil II ‘26 (Saint Paul and Minneapolis);

SS OF 2026

T H

A M E R I C A N

C O L L E G E

THE CLASS OF 2026

Rev. Mr. Andrew Messer ‘26 (Toledo); Rev. Mr. Jacob Derry ‘26 (Lansing). seated, left to right: Rev. Mr. Lucas Folan ‘26 (Paterson); Rev. Mr. Michael Figura ‘26 (Omaha); Rev. Mr. Mitchell Schumann ‘26 (Galveston–Houston); Rev. Michael Pratt ‘10, Vice Rector; Rev. Msgr. Thomas W. Powers ‘97, Rector; Rev. Mr. Tristan Schubert ‘26 (Portland in Oregon); Rev. Mr. Mauricio Romero ‘26 (San Angelo); Rev. Mr. Brendan Parlett ‘26 (Washington).

ROMAN ECHOES 2026 • VOLUME 30: ISSUE 4

25

VOICES OF THE COLLEGE

What is one way that your time at the College has formed you as a Christian and as a priest?

Rome has shown me how much Jesus loves his Bride, the Church, and how faithful he is to her. Witnessing this has instilled in me a greater love for the Church.

Rev. Mr. Jacob Derry ‘26, Diocese of Lansing Living in Rome has opened my eyes to the beauty of the unity of the Church. Despite being scattered and sown throughout so many cultures and places, the seeds of the faith grow, bringing people into relationship with one another through their relationship with Christ.

Rev. Mr. Michael Figura ‘26, Archdiocese of Omaha My time in Rome has brought me hope in a poor Church for the poor, because this has been the constant teaching of the two popes during my time here.

Rev. Mr. Andrew Messer ‘26, Diocese of Toledo God’s providence is real. I’m continually amazed by the encounters he has arranged in special places throughout Rome—encounters that have led others to Christ while also transforming my own heart.

Rev. Mr. Brendan Parlett ‘26, Archdiocese of Washington

26

The Pontifical North American College

Priests and seminarians of the College pray after the election of Pope Leo XIV.

OI A

OFFICE FOR INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT

God Will Provide – Through You! MARK RANDALL, CFRE • EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT On a recent visit to campus, I was reminded of the scale of some of our renovation projects.

Currently in place is an enormous scaffolding system, five stories tall, that is part of our plumbing renovation.

It’s a three-year project. The disruption to remove and replace pipes in these twelve-inch walls is significant, but we have designed it to minimally impact the living spaces of our seminarians and student priests.

It’s one part of our Restored In Hope campaign that was a focus during the Jubilee Year—one of several projects to ready our two campuses for the next 25 years of service to the Church.

Many of those projects have already been completed, thanks to the generosity of our lay benefactors and alumni: cleaning of the seminary façade and interior courtyard, significant repair and renovation of the roof of the Immaculate Conception Chapel, the restoration of our sports field, and enhancements to our auditorium.

With a 165-year history behind us and looking forward to many more decades of forming priests, we trust that we can gratefully rely on friends like you to help us maintain our magnificent facilities. Thank you!

But on a deeper level, we also have faith that God will provide—through His people—all that is needed to fulfill our noble mission. And it’s not just a story of faithful benefactors who help us maintain our facilities.

Our best spaces here in Rome mean nothing if we do not have committed, strong seminarians to benefit from our program of Roman formation. Over the last three years, over thirty men have come from fifteen “new” dioceses (i.e., having never sent men to Rome, or at least not in a long while).

We also rely on God’s providence to provide strong priest formators—the ones who make up our formation team, sent to Rome by their bishops for at least three years. These priests are a blessing for us, but a sure sacrifice for their home dioceses.

As we reflect on another year of fourth-year deacons soon to receive Holy Orders—so beautifully highlighted in this issue—we are reminded of God’s incredible blessings for this College and the Universal Church.

For more information about The Pontifical North American College, subscription questions, or to learn about ways you can financially support “America’s Seminary in Rome,” please contact Mark Randall, CFRE, Executive Director, Institutional Advancement.

Tel: (202) 541-5411 Fax: (202) 470-6211 Email: pnacdc@pnac.org Website: www.pnac.org

Thank you for your financial support of our work and for your continued prayers for the men who are now, and will be, in our care here in the Eternal City. n ROMAN ECHOES 2026 • VOLUME 30: ISSUE 4

27

The Pontifical North American College Office of Institutional Advancement 3211 Fourth Street, NE Washington, D.C. 20017-1194 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED1

NON-PROFIT ORG. US. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 476 DULLES, VA