With the theme “Steeped in Mercy, Offered in Love,” the retreat drew 180 teenagers, a significant increase from 2014. Journey is centered on an encounter with Christ, invites young people to respond to Jesus by faithfully serving God and neighbor, and offers a sense of fellowship to those who participate.

Finding new and creative ways to instill a call to service in their students is always a top priority for teachers and staff at St. Michael Catholic School in Augusta. Next week, however, it is the renewal of a longtime tradition that will reinforce this message while providing hope for many in need.

After recently reading a book about Veterans Day, fourth graders at St. Michael Catholic School in Augusta were moved by what they had learned about the meaning of the day.

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, 2014, to June 30, 2015, 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.