Dear Parishioners of Christ the Divine Mercy Parish and St. Benedict Parish:

It has been the practice in the Diocese of Portland that when a change in the pastor or administrator of a parish takes place, the Bishop would write formally to notify the faithful of the community of the change. With this letter, therefore, I wish to inform you that after consultation with the Priest Personnel Board and the priests involved, I am appointing Reverend Sefembiy Justin to replace Reverend Joel Cyr who will be returning senior/retired priest status. This appointment is effective January 30, 2025.

We thank Father Cyr for graciously stepping in to replace Father Robert Vallancourt on such short notice. I invite you to join me in thanking the Lord for all the graces the parish has experienced through his ministry these past few months.

In the ordination rite for priests, the Church prays for a special outpouring of the Holy Spirit to renew in the man to be ordained the grace of holiness of life. I invite you to join me in praying that through this new assignment Father Justin will grow in holiness with you, sharing in the joy and peace of Christ our Lord. I know that you will welcome him with your customary warmth and together you will continue your faith journey.

At this time of change in the pastoral assignments of some of our priests, I ask you to please promote and pray for vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life in our diocese. Our Vocations Office has some valuable resources and prayer materials in this regard. You may contact Father Brad Morin (207-613-1091) for ​more information. Please ​also pray for our families and for ​the strengthening of the sacramental bond that husbands and wives share. Strong Catholic families are vital for our parishes and local church.

Let us continue to pray for each other. May God ​bless you always.

Sincerely yours in the Risen Christ,

Most Reverend James Thomas Ruggieri
Bishop of Portland