As part of a nationwide tour celebrating the 50th anniversary of the beatification of St. Sharbel (1828-1898), relics of St. Sharbel will be on display at St. Joseph Maronite Catholic Church, located on 3 Appleton Street in Waterville, on Thursday, April 28, and Friday, April 29. This is the only display of the relics planned for Maine. People of all faiths are invited to visit and participate in the special events planned.

Over 230 teens and adult chaperones traveled to the picturesque resort from as far as Kittery and Madawaska to participate in workshops, discussion groups, prayer, music, dancing, and other activities during the three days.

Students at St. Michael School in Augusta have spent weeks gathering pledges from their families, friends, and community members. Garnering support has not been difficult once potential donors are told of who will benefit from their generosity.

Parish Social Ministry, a Catholic Charities Maine program, has announced that six local parishes will receive Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD) parish grants totaling $18,550.

In the view of the Church, marriage and family are precious gifts. It is for that reason that Pope Francis has written this new letter. In ‘Amoris Laetitia’, he has further emphasized this, teaching us that family life, though facing new and complex challenges and difficulties, is strengthened by the Church and the values it imparts.

PORTLAND---Bishop Robert P. Deeley has announced the following priest assignments with effective dates noted (pictures of the priests can be found at www.portlanddiocese.org/content/bishop-robert-p-deeley-announces-priest-assignments):