Pope Francis’ prayer service from the front of St. Peter’s Basilica and “Urbi et Orbi” (“to the city of Rome and the world”) blessing in response to the coronavirus pandemic will be broadcast live on CatholicTV
From additional livestreams of private Masses to “drive-thru” confessions, many Maine priests and parishes have announced special opportunities for parishioners to connect as the COVID-19 pandemic disrupts normal Mass and parish schedules. As events are confirmed, they will be added to the Diocese of Portland’s Coronavirus Response page at www.portlanddiocese.org/content/response-coronavirus.
With attention to the guidance from the Center for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) and upon consideration of the size of the usual congregations, Bishop Robert P. Deeley is temporarily suspending all daily and Sunday Masses and religious services throughout the Diocese of Portland (covering the entire state of Maine), effective immediately. The bishop is also issuing a dispensation from the obligation to attend Mass for Maine Catholics during this time.
Due to the current situation regarding COVID-19 that continues to evolve globally, all of Maine’s Catholic schools will close through at least March 29. All future decisions regarding school closures will be based upon guidance from the Maine Department of Education and protecting the health and safety of our school communities.
As more information develops with regard to COVID-19, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Portland continues to work to ensure the health and safety of Maine Catholics and the wider community.
Members of youth ministry and students at Maine Catholic schools will present the Living Stations of the Cross around the state leading up to Easter Sunday, April 12.
St. Michael Parish in Augusta will offer the community a taste of Italy during a special supper that aims to celebrate Maine’s bicentennial while raising money for an important cause.