News - November 2024 RSS Feed

During this week of Thanksgiving, we will probably, at some point, recall in an extraordinary way something for which we are thankful. I was thinking about that in preparation for writing this piece. One thing that I am very grateful for is the freedom I have to choose to be Catholic and live out my Catholic faith. As I walk this path of life towards my end, my Catholic faith guides my decision-making, guides my priorities, and informs my understanding of reality. My Catholicism is like a compass that explorers use to find their way on hikes and expeditions. The Catholic faith will always point me toward the true, good, and beautiful. Ultimately, my Catholic faith leads me to Heaven.

Eight men discerning for the permanent diaconate reached a milestone in their journey on Saturday, November 16, when they were instituted as lectors by Bishop James Ruggieri.

Approximately six months since I was ordained and installed as the Bishop of Portland. As I attend meetings and events and visit places in and outside our diocese, I am often asked, “How is it going?” I often respond, “It is a beautiful state with beautiful people.” I truly mean this.

Bishop James Ruggieri celebrated the Red Mass on October 1, 2024, in the chapel of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Portland, calling judges, lawyers, and all those in the legal profession to join in prayer to the Holy Spirit. Timed with the beginning of the judicial year, this tradition dates back to 1245 when the first Red Mass was celebrated at the Cathedral of Paris. The first Red Mass celebrated in the United States was at the Church of St. Andrew in New York City in 1928.

As election day approaches, I want to share my letter to our future president. While we may not be satisfied with the results, we must accept them. I hope that you take the time to vote. Voting is a privilege and a responsibility.

In April 2022, Leesa and Ray Edwards traveled from Gorham to Old Town to attend the baptism of their son, Holden, then a senior at the University of Maine. They and Holden’s sister, who also attended, say they came away from it thinking the same thing.