Dominguez Hills, California. Former students of Dominguez Memorial Seminary have come together to renovate their alma mater in honor of its 100th anniversary. What started as nostalgic reunions has turned into a major fundraising effort, collecting over $500,000 to restore the historic seminary, with a goal of $600,000 by July.
Founded in 1924, the seminary served as a high school, novitiate, and college for the Claretian Missionaries until 1972. It later became a retreat and now a retirement center for Claretian priests. Recognizing its deteriorating condition, alumni, led by John Crowe (Class of 1964), Bob Carey, Bill Johnson, and Bob Loera, launched the campaign to support the priests who once mentored them.
The Claretians received the land as a gift from the Dominguez family in 1922, making it a missionary training ground for those who later served worldwide. In its prime, the seminary housed a photo lab, printing press, dairy farm, and a renowned choir under Roger Wagner.
With outdated plumbing, wiring, and heating, restoration work began with an HVAC system upgrade, followed by roofing and electrical improvements. To mark the centenary, a celebration on August 24, 2024, included a Mass, BBQ lunch, live music, and the dedication of a centenary tree and plaque. Fr. Brian Culley, CMF, and Fr. John Raab, CMF, led the event, attended by 160 guests, including members of the Del Amo and Watson families.
“We are deeply grateful for the alumni’s support,” said Fr. Culley. “Their generosity reflects the impact of their formation in our Claretian Missionaries program.”
The fundraising campaign continues. Donations can be sent to:
Centenary Campaign
Dominguez Seminary
18127 S. Alameda St., Rancho Dominguez, CA 90220
Source: www.angelusnews.com
