VocationsME

On the eve of the ordination of Deacon Ezekiel Yisi and Deacon Evans Yongyee to the priesthood, the faithful gathered in the chapel of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Portland to pray for the two young men and to pray for vocations. Bishop James Ruggieri presided over the Eucharistic Holy Hour and Solemn Vespers, and at the conclusion, he blessed the priestly vestments, chalices, and patens with which the newly ordained will be presented during the Rite of Ordination. The ordination Mass begins at 10 a.m. at the cathedral. To read more about the Holy Hour: https://portlanddiocese.org/news/holy-hour-deacons-yisi-yongyee

In the winter issue of Harvest magazine, Father Matthew Valles, parochial vicar of St. Paul the Apostle - Bangor, reflects on his first year as a priest, which he calls a "really beautiful adventure" and "the best year of my life." Describing it as a wonderful time of growth and learning, he says, “The more you know, the more you can love, the more you can believe, the more you can hope.” Read the story: https://harvestmagazinemaine.org/really-beautiful-adventure

The Diocese of Portland's Office of Vocations would like to invite young men to a day of discernment, reflection and fellowship. The Gratitude retreat will be held on December 27 at the newly renovated Newman Center in Orono. Our seminarians will share their stories of struggle and joy in their own discernment. The day will also include adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, communal and personal prayer, time for conversation and mentorship, and the gift of fellowship with Bishop James Ruggieri as we enter the Christmas Season. For more information and to register, visit https://portlanddiocese.org/event/gratitude-vocations-discernment-retreat-orono