Roman Catholic Diocese of Portland

Transcription

1 510 Ocean Avenue Telephone: (207) Office of Communications WEEKLY MAILING October 21, 2016 Office of the Bishop Statement from Bishop Robert P. Deeley on Question 1 Office of the Moderator of the Curia Varia (November 2016) Varia (Special Edition: Advent & Christmas 2016) Office of Communications Independent Audit of Safe Environment Procedures Finds Diocese in Full Compliance Special Collection for Victims of Hurricane Matthew (February 11-12, 2017) Office of Public Policy Catholic Campaign for Human Development Weekend (November 19-20) Resources for Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe (November 20) Office of Safe Environment Code of Ethics---Revised September 14, 2016 Office of Missions/CRS Thomas Awiapo of Catholic Relief Services to Offer Free Presentations (November 3 in Portland, Standish, and Kennebunk) Office of Lifelong Faith Formation Journey Retreat (November in Auburn) March for Life (January 26-28, 2017, in Washington, D.C.) 2017 Parish Marriage Preparation Calendar Office of Campus Ministry Theology on Tap (November 17 in Portland) Office of Human Resources Current Openings Catholic Charities Maine RICHES Awards Dinner (November 9 in South Portland) From the Catholic Community

2 510 Ocean Avenue Telephone: (207) Office of the Bishop Statement from Bishop Robert P. Deeley on Question 1 In November, Maine residents will cast their votes on Question 1, which seeks to decriminalize the recreational use of marijuana. Passage of this referendum would make it legal for your children to possess marijuana, a fact recently confirmed by Maine Attorney General Janet Mills. In a particularly inflamed political climate, perhaps it is best to use the example of another state that has gone down the path Maine is considering now. Examine the devastating impact felt in Colorado since the commercial sale of marijuana began in January of A comprehensive report issued last month by the Rocky Mountain High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area states that since marijuana has been legalized, marijuana-related traffic deaths have increased by 62 percent and marijuana-related hospitalizations have increased by over 30 percent. The use and abuse of marijuana by the youth of Colorado has increased by 20 percent since legalization. The young people in Colorado rank first in the nation for marijuana use, an illegal activity for anyone under the age of 21. It should come as no surprise that expulsion and dropout rates have spiked significantly; family lives have been negatively affected; and anxiety about public safety has risen. Do we really want to bring these issues to Maine families, schools, and communities? Marijuana represents a significant part of substance use in America and adversely affects the health of millions of Americans. The widespread use of marijuana, particularly by young people under the age of 18, is steadily increasing while scientific evidence clearly links its long-term damaging effects on brain development. The National Institute on Drug Abuse states: When marijuana users begin using as teenagers, the drug may reduce thinking, memory, and learning functions and affects how the brain builds connections between the areas necessary for these functions. Marijuana s effects on these abilities may last a long time or even be permanent. Legalizing a drug for recreational use that causes these effects on the human body, particularly our youth, is not a path that civil society should choose to take. Maine is currently waging a losing battle against opioid abuse. Our attention must not be diverted from that health crisis, nor do we want to add fuel to the problem by increasing the number of marijuana users who might one day graduate to other illegal/illicit substances. The legalization of marijuana can only serve to worsen this crisis. The Catholic Church teaches the use of drugs inflicts very grave damage on human health and life. Their use, except on strictly therapeutic grounds, is a grave offense. The diocese hopes that voters will listen to doctors, public safety agencies, and substanceabuse professionals who have expressed their opposition to this dangerous prospect. Legalizing marijuana sends a message to our young people that this recreational drug use is acceptable. I join the Maine Medical Association, the Maine State Chiefs of Police, the Maine Association of School Nurses, the Office of the Attorney General, and many others in opposing the legalization of marijuana. I urge the voters of Maine to vote NO on Question 1 on November 8, 2016.

3 510 Ocean Avenue Telephone: (207) Office of the Moderator of the Curia To: All Priests, Deacons, Seminarians and Pastoral Associates Date: Friday, October 21, 2016 Re: VARIA November 2016 General Announcements Advent The Light is On for You: In keeping with our diocesan practice of the last several years, The Light is On for You will take place during the Third Week of Advent, with parishes/clusters offering the sacrament of penance (confession/reconciliation) on at least three weeknights beginning Monday, December 12, through Friday, December 16, from 6:00-7:00 PM. Additional times and locations, according to local needs and availability of priests, are encouraged. Chancery Hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Holidays: In observance of the following holy days/holidays, the Chancery will be closed: Veterans Day: Friday, November 11, 2016 Thanksgiving Day: Thursday, November 24, 2016 Friday after Thanksgiving: Friday, November 25, 2016 Christmas Day - Observed: Monday, December 26, 2016 New Year s Day Observed: Monday, January 2, 2017 Rest in Peace: Please pray for the repose of the soul of: Mrs. Fernande (Landry) Hamann, 95, aunt of Fr. Paul Marquis, a priest of the Diocese of Portland. Fernande died on Wednesday, September 28, 2016, in Lewiston. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at 11:00 AM on Saturday, October 1, 2016, in the lower chapel of the Basilica of Saints Peter & Paul (Prince of Peace Parish), Lewiston. Mr. Donald O. Lagace, Sr., 83, brother of Fr. Raymond Lagace, O.F.M. (of Augusta and formerly the chaplain of the Togus VA Hospital), who died on Tuesday, October 11, 2016, in Oakfield, ME. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Saturday, October 15, 2016, at St. Augustine Church (St. Michael Parish), Augusta. Mrs. Juliette Julie Irene Fortin, 95, (formerly of Augusta), mother of Reverend John R. Fortin, O.S.B., of St. Anselm, Manchester, NH, who died on Tuesday, October 11, 2016, in Hallowell, ME. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Wednesday, October 19, 2016, at St. Mary of the Assumption Church (St. Michael Parish), Augusta. The Most Reverend Robert P. Deeley, J.C.D., Bishop of Portland, was the principal celebrant; Fr. Fortin was the homilist. Reverend Richard R. Ouellette, 67, a priest of the Diocese of Portland, who died on Monday, October 17, 2016, in Massachusetts. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Friday, October 21, 2016, at St. Luce Church (Our Lady of the Valley Parish), Upper Frenchville. Members of the Diocesan Priests Benefit Plan are reminded to offer three Masses for the intention of Fr. Ouellette. Please pray also for the consolation of their friends and families, natural and religious.

4 Clergy Events Annual Clergy Institute 2017: Monday, May 15, through Thursday, May 18, 2017, Atlantic Oceanside, Bar Harbor, Maine. Annual Priests Retreat 2017: Sunday, October 8, through Thursday, October 12, 2017, Marie Joseph Spiritual Center, Biddeford Pool. Rev. James F. Quigley, O.P., who is in residence at Providence College, will lead the retreat. Diocesan Directory: Go to As changes are made and/or submitted, they are included in the Weekly Mailing. Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy: For more information about the Holy Year, press releases, prayers and other resources, please go to: Liturgical Notes & Upcoming Events Liturgy of the Hours: Volume 1 of the Liturgy of the Hours is used beginning on the First Sunday of Advent, Evening Prayer I, on Saturday, November 26, The Advent & Christmas Season: Please see the special seasonal attachment. Holy Days, Feasts and other Significant Dates and Activities on the Liturgical Calendar: Solemnity of All Saints Tuesday, November 1, 2016 This solemnity is a holy day of obligation, which this year (2016) also falls on Tuesday. Both a Mass of Christian Burial (funeral) and a wedding/nuptial Mass are not permitted. A pro populo Mass (for the people) must be offered. Relics of the saints may be exposed for veneration by the faithful; relics also may be carried in the opening procession of Mass and placed before (i.e., not on) the altar or in some other location of honor. Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls) Wednesday, November 2, 2016 This commemoration is not a holy day of obligation; however, in 1915, Pope Benedict XV granted all priests the privilege of celebrating three Masses on this day: one for a particular intention (the only Mass for which a stipend may be received), one for all the faithful departed, and one for the intentions of the pope. If an offering is taken with a collective intention, e.g., all the deceased of the parish, the number of Masses necessary to satisfy the obligation must equal the total amount collected divided by the standard Mass stipend (currently $10). Funeral Masses are permitted; nuptial/wedding Masses are not permitted. Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica Wednesday, November 9, 2016: Please note that on this, the anniversary of the dedication of the Cathedral Church of Rome, all parishes are required to celebrate the Mass for the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica, using the prayers and readings proper to this feast. Closing of the Extraordinary Holy Year/Jubilee of Mercy The conclusion of the Holy Year and closing of the Holy Doors will take place at Masses on the following dates and times: St. Luce Church, Frenchville, Sunday, November 13, 2016, 2 p.m. St. John Church, Bangor, Sunday, November 13, 2016, 10:30 a.m. Basilica of Saints Peter & Paul, Lewiston, Sunday, November 13, 2016, TIME TBA Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Portland, Sunday, November 20, 2016, 10:00 AM

5 Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe Sunday, November 20, 2016: This solemnity is celebrated on the last Sunday (and Saturday vigil) of the liturgical year. As required every Sunday, a pro populo Mass (for the people) must be offered. Thanksgiving Day Thursday, November 24, 2016: The Mass prayers and preface proper to this day are to be used; please refer to the Ordo 2016 for suggested readings. If it is the custom for your parishioners to participate in a Blessing of Food on Thanksgiving Day, please refer to The Book of Blessings, nos Resource - Echoing God s Word in the Catholic Faith Community: Each week, in Echoing God s Word in the Catholic Faith Community, Father Clement Thibodeau shares reflections on the Scripture passages read at Mass, offering insight into the readings, and providing historical context for them. The weekly reflections also include a prayer, questions to ponder or discuss, and related Catholic doctrine. Echoing God s Word is a valuable resource for both individuals and small faith-sharing groups. The reflections may be found year round at If your parish would like to receive the reflections as word documents, please lois.czerniak@portlanddiocese.org. Finance & Administration Special Collections: These collections will be taken in all churches of the diocese on the designated weekend. Unless otherwise indicated, all collections must be remitted to the Diocesan Finance Office by the second Friday after the collection. Links are provided as resources to assist you in promoting these collections through bulletin inserts, pulpit announcements, prayers, etc. Please encourage parishioners to be generous stewards by supporting the important needs that exist in your parish, at the diocesan level, and for the universal Church. Reminders for Collections to be taken in November and December: Name of Collection: Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (triennial collection) Date of Collection: November 5/6, 2016 Deadline to Remit: Friday, November 18, 2016 Resources: Military Collection - One Church, One Mission Name of Collection: Catholic Campaign for Human Development Date of Collection: November 19/20, 2016 Deadline to Remit: Friday, December 2, 2016 Resources: CCHD - Working on the Margins Name of Collection: Retirement Fund for Religious* Date of Collection: December 10/11, 2016 Deadline to Remit: Friday, December 23, 2016 Resources: Retired Religious - Materials *In 2015, Catholics in Maine donated $120, to the Retirement Fund for Religious. Because of their generosity, the following congregations received direct assistance from the collection: Brothers of Christian Instruction (Alfred), Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (Biddeford), Sisters of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary (Old Orchard Beach), Sisters of Mercy of the Americas (Portland), and Servants of the Blessed Sacrament (Waterville).

6 Sacraments & Related Information Resource Page on Diocesan Website Recurring VARIA Items: Certain VARIA features recur and do not change from month to month; therefore, they have been re-created on the diocesan website at the following link: As these items are updated, they will be reissued in the VARIA and on the website. For example, the items appearing on this specially created page of our diocesan website include: Sacramental Registers Handling Requests Made for Information Recorded in Sacramental Registers Recording Sacraments Celebrated in Institutions Hospitals and Colleges Recording Sacraments Celebrated in Joint Parish Celebrations Using Death Registers Disposing of Old/Outdated Liturgical Books Marriage-Related Matters Need for Delegation of a Priest/Deacon for a Catholic Wedding Annulments and the Setting of Wedding Dates Requesting & Processing of Marriage Dispensations When Annulments are Pending and/or Restrictions Have Been Imposed Sacramental vs. Valid Marriages in Church and Civil Law Celiac Sprue Disease & Low-Gluten Hosts Requirements for Using & Availability of Low-Gluten Hosts NEW Mileage Reimbursement Rate: Effective January 1, 2016, the Diocese has adopted the already approved IRS standard mileage reimburse rate of $0.54/mile: New Standard Business Mileage Rate January Upon presentation of documentation that indicates the day, the main points of travel, the distance, and the nature of the business travel, parishes and diocesan offices are permitted to reimburse at the rate of $0.54/mile. The travel must be related to one s assigned duties for the parish or the diocese, have proper documentation, and cannot include commuter miles (that is, miles driven between your residence and primary office/place of work). Miscellaneous Policy RE: Extending Invitations to International Clergy to Exercise Ministry in the Diocese: Please note that extending invitations to international clergy is reserved to the Bishop and his delegates. While we are all aware of the very real need for priests to provide coverage during vacations, retreats, or other time away, we must also be conscious that international clergy must receive an invitation from the Bishop to serve in this Diocese, and then, that invitation includes an extensive vetting process that follows the procedures and regulations of the United States Department of Homeland Security and other federal agencies. International clergy must have the correct type of VISA (all VISAs are not created equal; for example, some are for visitor or tourists, others for students, and others for work and, more specifically, for religious workers ). A VISA does not automatically allow a priest to exercise ministry in the USA. Of course, the vetting process must also include diocesan procedures related to Safe Environment and the Code of Ethics. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Msgr. Andrew Dubois. Advisories: Please contact the Chancery (either the Chancellor or the Moderator of the Curia) if you are contacted by or have information about the following individuals or organizations about whom the Office of the General Secretary of the USCCB has issued the following advisories: Current Advisories If you are planning a pilgrimage or have been approached by a travel agency to lead a pilgrimage, please note that there are travel or touring companies that do not always fulfill their obligations, and in some cases, they have failed to return payments

7 already received. If you have any questions or concerns about a particular vendor, please do not hesitate to contact the Diocese. Recurring Advisory Please beware of any and all mailings that you may receive (both through electronic and the postal service) that promise your parish, school, cemetery, or other organization a bequest, inheritance, grant, or other sum of money in exchange for a "good faith/gesture donation or commission." Such offers are "too good to be true"; please do not respond in any fashion. Directives for Visiting Priests (clarification) - Distinction between the need for a Celebret vs. a Letter of Suitability: Please remember that pastors should always exercise caution in admitting priests to ministry in the parish, especially when they are unknown to them or their parishioners. Even if known personally by the priests of the parish, a visiting priest must have his canonical superior (bishop or religious superior) send a letter of suitability to Bishop Deeley. If the letter is sent directly to the parish, then a copy must be provided to the bishop. If the bishop receives the letter, a COPY of the original will be ed to the parish, and the original will be kept in the parish file at Chancery. The only time a celebret suffices is if the cleric is visiting the area (i.e., relatives) and will be in attendance as a concelebrant (neither as the principal celebrant nor as the homilist). The celebret must be dated within the year. If there are any concerns relative to the status of a visiting priest, please consult Sr. Rita-Mae Bissonnette, Chancellor. Conversely, if a priest or deacon of the Diocese of Portland is going to exercise ministry outside our diocese, then a Letter of Suitability should be requested from the Bishop s Office, ideally two to three weeks before the event. It is understood that advance notice may not be possible if you are going to celebrate a funeral, but all other requests should be planned.

8 510 Ocean Avenue Telephone: (207) Office of the Moderator of the Curia VARIA - SPECIAL EDITION: ADVENT & CHRISTMAS 2016 Using the Lectionary & the Book of the Gospels: Effective the First Sunday of Advent, November 27, 2016 (and including the Saturday Vigil Mass on November 26, 2016), the readings for the Liturgy of the Word are taken from the Lectionary/Book of the Gospels for Sundays Year/Cycle A (Matthew), and for Weekdays Year I for Weekdays. Advent The Light is On for You: In keeping with our diocesan practice of the last several years, The Light is On for You will take place during the Third Week of Advent, with parishes/clusters offering the sacrament of penance (confession/reconciliation) on at least three weeknights beginning Monday, December 12, through Friday, December 16, from 6:00-7:00 PM. Additional times and locations, according to local needs and availability of priests, are encouraged. Solemnities and Feast Days during the Advent & Christmas Seasons Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Patronal Feast Day of the United States of America Thursday, December 8, 2016: Please note that this is a holy day of obligation. A pro populo Mass (for the people) must be offered. Funeral and wedding/nuptial Masses are not permitted. Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe Monday, December 12, 2016: Pope Pius XII declared Our Lady of Guadalupe as the patroness of the Americas. On March 25, 1999, the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments raised this celebration to the rank of feast for all the countries of the Americas. A funeral Mass is permitted; however, a wedding/nuptial Mass is not permitted. Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord (Christmas) Sunday, December 25, 2016: This solemnity is a holy day of obligation. A Vigil Mass may be celebrated beginning at 4:00 PM on Saturday, December 24, A pro populo Mass (for the people) must be offered. Funeral and wedding/nuptial Masses are not permitted. Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God Sunday, January 1, 2017: This solemnity is a holy day of obligation. The Vigil Mass may be celebrated beginning at 4:00 PM on Saturday, December 31, A pro populo Mass (for the people) must be offered. Funeral and wedding/nuptial Masses are not permitted. Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord Sunday, January 8, 2017: This solemnity is a holy day of obligation (Sunday). The Vigil Mass may be celebrated beginning at 4:00 PM on Saturday, January 7, In accordance with ancient custom, the Epiphany Proclamation may take place after the proclamation of the Gospel or as part of or after the homily. It can be found in Appendix I: The Announcement of Easter and the Moveable Feasts of the Roman Missal.

9 510 Ocean Avenue Telephone: (207) Office of Communications Independent Audit of Safe Environment Procedures Finds Diocese of Portland in Full Compliance PORTLAND---An independent, on-site audit of safe environment procedures has found the Roman Catholic Diocese of Portland in full compliance with the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People. The on-site audit, which reviewed the period of July 1, 2015, to June 30, 2016, was conducted by StoneBridge Business Partners of Rochester, New York. The Charter calls for an effective response from the diocese to any report of sexual abuse by church personnel, background checks on all diocesan employees and volunteers who work regularly with minors, and other mandates for the protection of children. 100% of all diocesan employees and active clergy were found to have had background checks. Auditors also reviewed the implementation of the Think First/Stay Safe Prevention Program for children in Catholic schools and those that participate in religious education offered through their parishes, and the implementation of the Protecting God s Children Program for all those working and volunteering in the Diocese of Portland. The diocese is pleased that the results of this thorough, on-site review reflect our commitment to ensuring that the Church is a safe environment for children and all those who seek a place to draw near to God, said Bishop Robert P. Deeley. The audit is done each year to guarantee that our safeguards remain in place and to continually remind ourselves of the gravity of the harm. We pray for the victims/survivors and want to do what we can to assist, if possible, in a process which leads to their healing. The Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People was approved by the U.S. Catholic Bishops in June 2002, revised in June 2011, and is reviewed regularly. The mandates include removing clergy who have sexually abused minors; reaching out to victims and their families with patience and compassion; reporting all allegations of sexual abuse of minors to civil authorities and investigating all complaints of abuse in a timely, thorough manner; implementing safe environment programs, which include abuse prevention training and awareness for all personnel and volunteers; and completing background checks on all personnel. Bishop Deeley encourages anyone who may have information about any case of sexual abuse of a minor by a church representative to contact civil authorities as well as Michael Magalski, Director of the Office of Professional Responsibility for the Diocese of Portland, at (207) or michael.magalski@portlanddiocese.org.

10 510 Ocean Avenue Telephone: (207) Office of Communications All Churches in the Diocese of Portland to Hold Special Collection for the Victims of Hurricane Matthew on February 11-12, 2017 PORTLAND---Bishop Robert P. Deeley has authorized a special collection to be held in all churches throughout the Diocese of Portland on February 11-12, The proceeds from the collection will assist the long-term efforts of Catholic Relief Services and Catholic Charities USA as they provide aid to victims after the widespread destruction of Hurricane Matthew. The hurricane first made landfall in Haiti on October 4, eventually devastating areas in the Caribbean and the southeast coast of the U.S. Over 1,000 deaths and an estimated $6.9 billion in damages have been attributed to the storm. The special collection will assist Catholic Relief Services and Catholic Charities USA as they support the restoration and rebuilding of affected communities, said Bishop Deeley. The true measure of a people s character is how they respond in another s moment of need. As we have seen in previous responses to devastation and tragedy, I am certain that the charitable giving of the people of Maine will once again rise to meet the ongoing challenges facing many. Yours is the charity of Christ. In advance of the special collection, the Diocese of Portland is providing the following information to individuals and parishes that wish to donate to the relief efforts: To donate online, visit or To donate by phone, call To donate by mail, please send a check or money order to: Catholic Relief Services, Attn: Hurricane Matthew Relief, P.O. Box 17090, Baltimore, MD

11 510 Ocean Avenue Telephone: (207) Office of Public Policy Catholic Campaign for Human Development Weekend (November 19-20) A reminder that the collection for the USCCB s Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD) is approaching on the weekend of November The CCHD helps reduce poverty through supporting programs that empower people to gain the valuable skills needed to support themselves. An important note: Twenty-five percent of the collection proceeds remain in Maine to specifically assist our parishes with these types of social ministry programs. In 2016, five Maine parishes, from Jay to Calais, received approximately $15,000 to help with their ministries, including a life skills educational series and homeowner education. Please promote this collection in your parish so that we can better serve our community members through these important ministries and make a lasting change in many lives. The USCCB has created a special section of its website to help generate awareness of the CCHD collection and its importance in the Diocese of Portland. To access the materials, visit: In addition, please consider using the following localized bulletin insert and announcement to help your parishioners better understand how the collection directly impacts our parishes and people right here in Maine: Bulletin Insert: Bulletin Announcement: For parishes interested in applying for CCHD grants, application materials will be made available in December and the application deadline is Friday, February 17, For more information, contact Michael Smith, director of mission for Catholic Charities Maine, at msmith@ccmaine.org or (207)

12 510 Ocean Avenue Telephone: (207) Office of Public Policy Resources for the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe (Sunday, November 20) The USCCB has prepared materials to help educate the faithful about the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, on November 20, as well as the solemnity s connection to religious liberty. Below, you will find bulletin inserts in both English and Spanish and resources that can assist you in preparing homilies and Prayers of the Faithful. Thank you very much for your help, Suzanne Lafreniere Director Bulletin Insert (English): Bulletin Insert (Spanish): Homily and Prayers of the Faithful Resources:

13 510 Ocean Avenue Telephone: (207) Office of Safe Environment Code of Ethics for the Diocese of Portland Revised September 14, 2016 The Code of Ethics, originally developed on July 1, 2003, and revised on March 2, 2010, has been updated, revised, and promulgated by Bishop Robert P. Deeley, effective September 14, 2016 (The Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross). Prior to being released, the document was reviewed by Bishop Deeley and his consultative bodies (i.e., the Episcopal Council, Presbyteral Council, Diocesan Pastoral Council, the priests of the six vicariates, and Diocesan Review Board). At the end of the Code of Ethics, you will be asked to complete a new acknowledgement form that indicates the revised document has been received and read, and that the individual agrees to abide by the code. This form must be filled out by all clergy, diocesan employees, educators, and volunteers. Although you may have completed an acknowledgement form in the past for the older Code of Ethics, it is mandatory to submit a new form. A PDF copy of the revised Code of Ethics can be found on the diocesan website at the following link: Once you have read the revised Code of Ethics and completed the acknowledgement form, submit it to your parish/school office which will reconcile them with a master list they will be provided. As the forms are collected, they will be mailed to the Office of Safe Environment at the Chancery. For those not directly associated with a parish/school, your acknowledgement form can be mailed directly to: Diocese of Portland Office of Safe Environment 510 Ocean Avenue Portland, ME If you should have any questions, please contact Thom Meschinelli, director of the Office of Safe Environment, at (207) or thom.meschinelli@portlanddiocese.org. Thank you in advance for your cooperation!

14 510 Ocean Avenue Telephone: (207) Office of Missions/CRS Thomas Awiapo of Catholic Relief Services to Offer Presentations in Portland, Standish, and Kennebunk on November 3 Thomas Awiapo, a global solidarity coordinator for Catholic Relief Services in Ghana, will visit the Diocese of Portland on Thursday, November 3. Here are the details for the three free presentations to be offered by Awiapo: Chancery (Videoconferencing Available in Brewer and Caribou) 510 Ocean Avenue, Portland Private Gathering for Diocesan Employees and Volunteers 10 a.m. Saint Joseph s College Alfond Hall, 278 Whites Bridge Road, Standish 1 p.m. St. Martha Church 30 Portland Road, Kennebunk 6 p.m. Knights of Columbus to provide a light supper following the Kennebunk presentation Awiapo tells a truly inspiring story of survival and success. Growing up in a small village in Ghana, he was orphaned before the age of 10 and left to struggle for survival. He was the second of four brothers, and his two younger brothers died of malnutrition and lack of care. Today, Awiapo trains community leaders throughout Ghana, where he lives with his wife and four children. His joyful presence has brought inspiration to thousands of people during presentations around the U.S. For food purposes, if you plan on attending the event in Kennebunk, please register with Ruth Oakley, diocesan director of Missions/CRS, at (207) or ruth.oakley@portlanddiocese.org.

15 510 Ocean Avenue Telephone: (207) Office of Lifelong Faith Formation Journey Retreat Set for Auburn on November Come join us and Embark on the Journey! Journey is an annual retreat for high school youth who seek to grow and deepen their relationship with Jesus. The weekend offers the opportunity to embark on the journey with Jesus to more intimately encounter him, embrace his invitation and call, and echo the Risen Lord with our lives! The retreat is scheduled for Friday, November 18, through Sunday, November 20, at Saint Dominic Academy in Auburn. The celebration of Mass, adoration, and the opportunity to receive the sacrament of reconciliation will be offered throughout the weekend. Bishop Robert P. Deeley will celebrate Mass at the retreat on Saturday, November 19, at 11 a.m. A collection will be taken during the closing liturgy on Sunday for the Sr. Diane Melancon Fund that supports financial aid requests from participants in diocesan youth ministry events. To learn more about the retreat or to register, visit:

16 510 Ocean Avenue Telephone: (207) Office of Lifelong Faith Formation Save the Date: Diocesan Youth Bus for the 2017 March for Life on January in Washington, D.C. The Diocese of Portland is organizing a youth bus trip to attend the March for Life in Washington, D.C., on January 26-28, The March for Life is a witness to the truth concerning the greatest human rights violation of our time: abortion. The diocesan journey will include the youth rally at the Verizon Center, the March for Life, tours to several monuments, and the choice of a visit to the Holocaust Memorial Museum or the Smithsonian. The trip will also feature Masses at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception and St. Patrick s Church, and a special Mass at St. Anthony of Padua Church to be celebrated by Bishop Robert P. Deeley. The cost is $260 per person which includes two nights in a hotel, transportation to and from Maine, and breakfast on Saturday and Sunday. All other meals are not included. Pick- up/drop-off points in Maine are tentatively slated for Bangor, Lewiston, and Portland. Join young people from around the country in taking a stand for defending the gift of life! To register, speak to your parish s youth ministry coordinator or contact Maureen Provencher in the Office of Lifelong Faith Formation at (207) or maureen.provencher@portlanddiocese.org. To learn more about the trip, visit:

17 2017 Parish Marriage Preparation Calendar A calendar featuring the 2017 parish-based marriage preparation programs throughout the diocese is now available online at This page will be updated as new details and dates become available. If a parish does not offer a parish-based program, engaged couples have the option of attending one of the programs on the schedule. You can print a copy of this program list by visiting the above link. For couples who have no other option, you will find links to online marriage preparation programs approved by the USCCB and links to other New England programs that might be able to accommodate a Maine couple. The couple will receive a certificate of completion from any of these programs to verify that they have participated. If you have any questions, please contact Annette Rioux in the Office of Lifelong Faith Formation at (207) or annette.rioux@portlanddiocese.org.

18 510 Ocean Avenue Telephone: (207) Office of Campus Ministry Theology on Tap in Portland on November 17 The next Theology on Tap will be held in the upstairs room at Pat s Pizza, located on 30 Market Street in Portland, on Thursday, November 17, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Theology on Tap is a gathering of college students and young adults (ages 18-39) that features food, drinks, conversation, and engaging discussions! On November 17, Deacon Kevin Jacques and his wife, Aline, will present Finding Christ in the Midst of Chaos. For further information about Theology on Tap or to learn more about opportunities for Catholic college students and young adults, contact Joy Segovia at joy.segovia@portlanddiocese.org or Josh Houde at joshua.houde@portlanddiocese.org.

19 510 Ocean Avenue Telephone: (207) Office of Human Resources Diocesan Employment Opportunities For job descriptions, requirements, and details on how to apply for any opening, visit: Current Openings (19) Faith Formation Coordinator Sacred Heart Church, Yarmouth Music Teacher St. Brigid School, Portland Ice Hockey Coach (Junior Varsity) Saint Dominic Academy, Auburn Girls /Boys Outdoor Track Coach Saint Dominic Academy, Auburn Before/After Care Helper Saint Dominic Academy, Lewiston French Teacher (Grades 6-8) St. James School, Biddeford Chaplain St. Mary s d Youville Pavilion, Lewiston Pastoral Life Coordinator St. Ann Church, Pleasant Point Bookkeeper St. Thomas School, Sanford Physical Education Teacher St. Brigid School, Portland Custodian (Job-Sharing Position) St. Brigid School, Portland Girls /Boys Indoor Track Coach Saint Dominic Academy, Auburn Girls Basketball Coach Saint Dominic Academy, Auburn Administrative Assistant Holy Savior School, Rumford Parish Catechetical Leader St. Joseph Parish, Farmington Kindergarten Teacher St. John Reg. Catholic School, Winslow Pastoral Administrative Assistant Corpus Christi Parish, Waterville Bookkeeper Christ the King Parish, Skowhegan Unit Helper Saint Joseph s Rehabilitation & Residence, Portland

20 RICHES Awards Dinner in South Portland on November 9 Catholic Charities Maine is celebrating its 50th anniversary and wants you to join them at the first RICHES Awards Dinner. On Wednesday, November 9, at the DoubleTree Hotel in South Portland, Catholic Charities Maine will honor the outstanding individuals, parishes, businesses, and organizations that have shown exemplary leadership and support in building a better community. The true RICHES (Respect, Integrity, Compassion, Hospitality, Excellence, Stewardship) of Catholic Charities Maine are grounded in the social teachings of Jesus Christ, empowering its mission and values. The event will feature a reception, awards dinner, and a special keynote address from Sister Donna Markham, the president of Catholic Charities USA. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit

21 From the Catholic Community Auction Featuring Over 60 Donated Works from Private Collection of Fr. Paul Plante in Portland on October 28 The International Fine Art Auction is scheduled for Friday, October 28, at 6 p.m. at the University of Southern Maine s Abromson Center, located on 88 Bedford Street in Portland. Included in the consignments up for auction are over 60 items from the personal collection of Fr. Paul Plante, who died on June 30, Fr. Plante arranged for all proceeds from his items to be donated to the Father Plante Estate, which will be used for diocesan needs. Available from his collection at the auction will be oil and watercolor paintings, lithographs, etchings, stone and soapstone sculptures, and other works by prominent artists. Learn more about the auction, including how to bid online, by visiting Maine Catholic Men s Conference in Augusta on November 5 What does it mean to be a real man in the face of real world challenges? Attend the 2016 Maine Catholic Men s Conference on Saturday, November 5, at the Augusta Civic Center and find out. The conference will feature Mass celebrated by Bishop Robert P. Deeley and a keynote address by Patrick Coffin, who is an author, speaker and, for the last seven-and-a-half years, was the host of the popular radio show, Catholic Answers Live, heard in Maine on The Presence Radio Network. Registration will begin at 7:30 a.m. with Mass to follow at 9 a.m. The cost is $50 per person through November 1, and $60 beginning November 2 (including tickets purchased at the door). To register in advance, visit For more information, contact Mark Labonte at (207) or mark.labonte@myfairpoint.net. Veterans Day Salute at St. Christopher Church in York on November 11 The Parish Life Commission at the Parish of the Ascension of the Lord will sponsor a spirited Veterans Day Salute to benefit a group of patriotic Americans dedicated to supporting and promoting our nation s heroes. The program will be held on Friday, November 11, at 6 p.m. in the parish hall of St. Christopher Church, located on 4 Barrell Lane in York. It will feature the music of World War II and songs of patriotism. There will also be a special presentation to a family member of a MIA veteran. Tickets are $8 before November 11 and $10 at the door. The proceeds will benefit the Pease Greeters, who welcome men and women in the U.S. Armed Forces who pass through Pease International Airport in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, on their way to or from any area of conflict. Since 2005, the group has met over 600 flights and welcomed home over 170,000 troops. For ticket information, contact Rose Cronin at (207) or jcronin2@maine.rr.com.

22 We Remember & Give Thanks Veterans Day Prayer Service in Lewiston on November 11 Prince of Peace Parish will host its 13 th annual Veterans Day Prayer Service, We Remember & Give Thanks, on Friday, November 11, at 6:30 p.m. at Holy Family Church on 607 Sabattus Street. The community-wide prayer service honors those who have served and who are currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Active soldiers who are living in the area or home on leave are urged to attend in uniform. All are invited to attend regardless of faith affiliation. Area clergy will join together to honor our brave men and women in prayer and song. For more information, contact the parish office at (207) Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekend in Lewiston on December 2-4 Invest in your marriage and reap the benefits! You ll get more from spending just 44 hours together on a Worldwide Marriage Encounter weekend than you would expect. Sign up now to join us for the weekend of December 2-4 in Lewiston. The weekend is designed as a private experience between husband and wife that develops deeper communication, restores hopes and dreams, renews passion, and inspires good marriages to grow into even better marriages. The encounter weekends remain devoted to celebrating the precious gift of marriage, a sacred bond, as it has been received from the Creator. There is a $50 non-refundable application fee and an opportunity to make a freewill donation during the weekend. For more information or to apply, visit or contact Bill and Coco Watkin at (207)