Priests Celebrate Ordination Milestones

Priests, deacons and faithful communicants from throughout the diocese gathered for the annual Chrism Mass, which took place at the Cathedral of St. Patrick in Norwich.

In addition to blessing the sacred oils, the Most Rev. Michael R. Cote, D.D., led the renewal of priestly promises before the assembled priests and jubilarians. “Our priests are here to renew their priestly promises, and we gather together in spirit with the faithful throughout our diocese to call upon the Savior of the world to renew His presence in our lives, our ministries and our work in building God’s kingdom in this portion of His vineyard,” Bishop Cote remarked.

The priests resolved to renew their promises, to be more united with and more closely conformed to the Lord, to “be faithful stewards of the mysteries of God” in liturgical rites and to “discharge faithfully the office of teaching.”

If you or someone you know is interested in discerning a vocation to the priesthood, please contact vocations@norwichdiocese. net or call 860.887.9294.

St. Maximilian Kolbe (1894-1941) was a Polish Catholic priest and martyr. He founded the Militia Immaculata and promoted devotion to the Virgin Mary. During World War II, he was imprisoned in Auschwitz, where he selflessly volunteered to take the place of a condemned prisoner. His act of sacrificial love touched many.

St. Maximilian Kolbe’s life exemplifies the virtues of love, sacrifice, and forgiveness. His Feast Day is celebrated on August 14th. Canonized by the Catholic Church in 1982, he is revered as a saint and an inspiration to countless people worldwide.