Maui Wildfire Relief: Diocese of Portland Joins Maui Wildfire Relief Effort. Devastating wildfires on the island of Maui have made it the deadliest natural disaster in the history of the state of Hawaii and the deadliest wildfire in the United States in the last century. In addition to the loss of life, thousands of structures were damaged or destroyed, most of them homes. Please join in praying for the people of Maui, and if you would like to make a financial contribution to assist the residents, donations may be made through Catholic Charities Hawai'i or Catholic Charities USA, which pledges that 100% of your gift will be directed to where it is needed most. To learn about how you can contribute, visit www.portlanddiocese.org/maui-wildfire-relief
A celebration of the beauty of African culture and community, will be held at the Guild Hall of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Saturday, September 16, from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. The festival will be preceded by a Mass at the Cathedral at 4 p.m. The event will feature a variety of music, dancing, and foods from many African countries. Admission is $20 for adults and $10 for children under 13 and seniors. For tickets call the parish at 207-773-7746. The proceeds will benefit the benevolent efforts of Sacred Heart/St. Dominic Parish on Mellen Street in Portland. For more information about the festival, contact Francine at 207-618-3292 or John at 207-347-9844.