Record Attendance Anticipated for 5th Annual “Celebrate Priesthood”

Worcester, MA -- In an effort to raise awareness of the need and as well as raise funds for Priests’ Retirement Care, the Diocese of Worcester is holding the Fifth Annual Celebrate Priesthood gala on Thursday, October 18 from 5:30 – 7:30 pm in the Atrium of St. Vincent Hospital. “Taste of the Diocese” will feature 24 stations with food from local restaurants, parish groups, and refreshments from Spencer Brewery, Global Wines, and Polar Beverages. The relaxed format for the evening provides an opportunity for attendees to socialize and visit with retired and active priests in attendance. This will be the largest gala to date anticipating over 450 in attendance. A short, formal program will take place between 7 and 7:30 pm including remarks by Most Rev. Robert J. McManus, Bishop of Worcester and a tribute to the priests who died in the past year.
 
Priests’ Retirement Care has been cited in recent financial reports to be one of the biggest challenges for the Diocese of Worcester, ranging from roughly one-half to one million dollars in deficits each year over the past six years. “Celebrate Priesthood” was inaugurated in part to raise awareness of the need, raise needed funds, as well as to give an opportunity in a relaxed environment for people to recognize the contribution priests have made in their lives. Last year’s annual report listed $191,520 raised from last year’s gala. Donations for the event are $100 per person and can be made at the door.
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