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September 10, 2020
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
For the past six years, the Diocese of Worcester has hosted a wonderful gala called Celebrate Priesthood- Taste of the Diocese” as a benefit for Retired Priests’ care. Given the many restrictions to protect us from the Coronavirus pandemic, we are planning a Virtual Celebrate Priesthood event for October 26, 2020.
We cannot let a year go by without pausing to reflect on the gift of the priesthood in the lives of all Catholics. So our Virtual event will nonetheless be a uplifting celebration!
On Monday, October 26 at 6 pm we will livestream an evening featuring interviews with some of our priests ranging from recently ordained to retired. We will also invite you into the celebration that evening by sharing your memories that day by email and/or social media to be part of this special night, which we will share during the live event.
Although we cannot gather that night for the delectable tastings from area restaurants and parishes, “tickets” as donations will be available up to and including that night to receive a gift of coupons from area restaurants to enjoy tastings at their facilities or as takeout. As restaurants are confirmed, we will post them and their offerings on the Celebrate Priesthood webpage.
Individual donations, advertising in the commemorative book and sponsorships have all been necessary elements to the success of this annual event in support of on average 55 retired priests in our diocese who have committed more than 2,000 years of service as a group to our spiritual wellbeing! That financial support is critical since over the past six years the cost of their care has exceeded resources by an average of over $500,000.
I invite you to utilize the forms which are available online and in our parishes to participate. Everyone who responds will receive a commemorative book in the mail along with restaurant coupons for those who donate $100 or more for “tickets” or general donations. Sponsors, donors and advertisers will also be posted on the Celebrate Priesthood webpage and social media.
Please join me in spreading the word about this wonderful celebration of the priesthood and the importance of supporting our priests in retirement.
With every prayerful best wish, I remain
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Most Reverend Robert J. McManus
Bishop of Worcester