Bishop Deeley School Visit Tradition Returns

PORTLAND---For reasons of safety and diocesan policy, the longstanding tradition of Bishop Robert Deeley visiting Catholic schools across Maine was paused from the spring of 2020 until the winter of 2022. The students, faculty, and staff are pleased that it has returned, as is the bishop himself.

“I really do enjoy my school visits. When I visit the classrooms, it is always inspiring, interesting, and often challenging when I field their questions, and their creativity is amazing to observe,” said the bishop. “Seeing the many ways in which they are learning that each of us is called to be holy in life is beautiful.”

The bishop’s return to the schools began in November with a visit to St. Michael School in Augusta and the celebration of Grandparents Day Mass at Saint Dominic Academy in Auburn. In December, Bishop Deeley also presided at Advent Mass at Cheverus High School in Portland. This week, the schedule ramps up:

Wednesday, January 11
Holy Cross School, South Portland
9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Visit with students and staff

Friday, January 13
St. Thomas School, Sanford
9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Visit with students and staff

Sunday, January 29
St. John’s Catholic School, Brunswick
11 a.m.
Mass at St. John the Baptist Church to Launch Maine Catholic Schools Week

Monday, January 30
All Saints Catholic School, Bangor
9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Visit during Maine Catholic Schools Week

Wednesday, February 1
Saint Dominic Academy, Lewiston
9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Visit during Maine Catholic Schools Week

Wednesday, February 15
St. James School, Biddeford
9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Visit with students and staff

Wednesday, March 1
St. Brigid School, Portland
9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Visit with students and staff

Wednesday, March 8
St. John’s Catholic School, Brunswick
9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Visit with students and staff

Wednesday, March 15
Saint Dominic Academy, Auburn
9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Visit with middle schoolers and staff

Wednesday, March 22
Mount Merici Academy, Waterville
9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Visit with students and staff

Maine Catholic schools evangelize students by nourishing faith and encouraging academic excellence while accentuating the importance of community and service in a nurturing environment. For more information about Catholic education in Maine, click here.