Bishop Kevin Vann blesses the House of Discernment

Bishop Kevin Vann blessed the House of Discernment on Oct. 6 at the St. Joseph Catholic Church and School property near French Park in Santa Ana. The building, a former convent for the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange that dates to approximately 1915, will serve as a communal residence for men considering the priesthood.

The 5,800-square-foot facility provides dormitory-style living to help diocesan leaders evaluate the maturity and readiness of candidates. Through extended stays involving prayer, meetings, and daily obligations, men can demonstrate their commitment and responsibility before entering the seminary. This is the first house of its kind in Orange County and one of few in the United States.

The Orange Catholic Foundation is working to raise $3.5 million to renovate the building and add furnishings. The blessing ceremony included priests, benefactors, members of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange, and representatives from the Orange Catholic Foundation.