Ministries Supported by the Catholic Appeal

header image featuring campus ministry, ministry to priests, hospital chaplains, and vocations

Each year, ministries supported by the appeal touch the lives of tens of thousands of people across the state. For the 2026 Catholic Appeal – Together in the Spirit – the diocese is highlighting four ministries central to the mission of the Church in Maine.

Campus Ministry

Rooted in Christ’s love and the teachings of the Church, Campus Ministry provides a welcoming home for students and young adults at colleges and universities across Maine. Through prayer, Bible study, service, and community, students grow spiritually, form friendships, and deepen their relationship with God. The ministry also encourages exploration of vocations, helping students discern how to live their faith in their future careers and callings. Your support helps this vibrant ministry inspire the next generation to live their faith with purpose and joy.

Hospital Chaplains

Hospital chaplains provide compassionate care to patients and families during times of illness and uncertainty. Whether offering a quiet presence, guidance, or prayer, our clergy and lay chaplains meet patients where they are, bringing hope and reassurance when it is needed most. Your support ensures this vital ministry continues, allowing chaplains to bring God’s love and care to every patient and family.

Vocations

Vocations are essential to the future of the Church in Maine. Seminarians prepare for the priesthood through years of prayer, study, and supervised ministry, learning to shepherd God’s people, preach and teach the faith, and celebrate the sacraments upon which our Catholic life depends. Deacons are formed to proclaim the Gospel, assist at the altar, and carry out works of service, bringing Christ’s love to the Church community. Your support sustains this work of formation, helping ensure that our diocese is served by well-prepared clergy now and for generations to come.

Ministry to Priests

Ministry to Priests supports the spiritual, human, and fraternal well-being of the priests of the Diocese of Portland throughout every stage of their dedicated service. Through ongoing formation, retreats, gatherings, mentoring, and care for senior and retired priests, the diocese strengthens the faithful exercise of the priesthood in service of the sacramental and pastoral life of parishes across Maine. Your support of the Catholic Appeal sustains this ministry, ensuring that priests are supported so they may continue to serve God’s people.

Full List of Ministries Supported by the Appeal:

  • Campus Ministry
  • Catholic Charities 
    • Education Services for Blind & Visually Impaired Children 
    • Hunger & Relief Services
    • Parish Social Ministry 
    • SEARCH
    • St. Elizabeth's Child Development Center
    • St. Louis Child Development Center
  • Catholic Schools 
  • Harvest Magazine
  • Hospital Chaplaincy Ministry
  • Ministry To Priests
  • Indigenous Peoples Ministry
  • Multicultural Ministry
  • Parish Vitality and Pastoral Planning
  • Lifelong Faith Formation
  • Vocations 
  • Prison Ministry
  • Public Policy & Pro-Life
  • St. André Home