Diocesan News
Diocese of Portland

Concert of Hope planned to lift spirits and bring harmony to a hurting community

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State of Maine with hands behind it

LEWISTON---In the wake of the devastating shootings in Lewiston, Prince of Peace Parish will host a Concert of Hope, an interfaith collaboration of healing, hope and music.

The concert will be held on Sunday, November 12, 2 to 4 p.m., at Holy Family Church, 607 Sabattus Street in Lewiston, and will feature choirs from several churches in the Lewiston-Auburn area, including a special performance from Chorale Notre Dame de la Paix, which is made up of members of the African community of central Maine. The Maine Music Society will also be offering music of hope and healing, as well as readings from Scripture and poetry.

"Our cherished friends and family within the Lewiston/Auburn community are currently enduring a challenging period," said Fr. Daniel Greenleaf, pastor of Prince of Peace Parish. "Maine has always been about unity, family, tolerance, and togetherness, and it is in this spirit that we extend a heartfelt invitation to join us for an uplifting Concert of Hope.

Those who attend the concert will be able to take home or sign up to receive a soothing “blanket of healing.” The parish received 300 of the blankets from an anonymous donor. Seventy-five of them will be available at the church, and there will also be order forms for those who wish to have one delivered free of charge.

"The overwhelming support from our colleagues and partners has been truly heartwarming. We have received contributions from various sources and an outpouring of love, prayers, and kindness, including donations in excess of $20,000, as well as numerous individuals who have stepped forward with offers of meals and counseling for all involved,” said Jennifer Bussiere, Prince of Peace Parish’s Director of Communications.

There is no cost to attend the Concert of Hope, but donations will be accepted to assist the families affected by the tragedy.

For more information about the concert, please contact Tyler Nadeau, Director of Evangelization for Prince of Peace Parish, at 207-891-3945.