new membe initiations

02/22/2022

Council: 114 - BANGOR

Project Description:

Pine Cone Council #114 overcame various obstacles placed in our way by COVID-19 and managed to conduct 5 live Exemplifications of Charity, Unity and Fraternity from April 2021 through December 2021. 21 candidates became 3rd Degree Knights during these ceremonies, including two priests, one seminarian and one advancing First Degree member. To accommodate COVID restrictions, two ceremonies were held at St. Mary’s church in Bangor, while the others took place at St. Joseph’s church in Brewer. They were held at different times, again due to COVID. Informal and socially-distanced get-togethers were held following most ceremonies, with the nature of each gathering designed to meet the pandemic guidelines which were in place at the time. Our observance of the guidelines were coordinated with our parish staff, in accordance to state and diocesan parameters. We welcomed new members from our council as well as councils in Bucksport and Old Town. When possible, we hold our exemplifications on the altar at St. Joseph’s church, following the 4 PM Saturday Mass. This arrangement strengthens our message that we strive to be the strong right arm of the church.

Council 114 is blessed to have a quality team of presenters and support staff. Our chaplain, Rev. Frank Murray and our pastor, Msgr. Andrew Dubois strongly support our degree efforts. Our district Deputy, Jon Jozefowicz, is one of our regular presenters. State officers and state staff members support us with their presence, and sometimes serve as presenters as well. Our council often receives favorable comments from candidates and guests.

Diocesan Seminarian Andrew Bailey approached one of our members with a request to become initiated during a short window of availability in the summer. Council 114 was honored to put together a ceremony specifically for Seminarian Bailey, which we held in honor of the Office of Vocations of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Portland. Other honorees for our degrees have been: Msgr. Andre Dubois; Council 114 Brother Michael Caruso for his dedicated service to the church and the order; our Holy Father, Pope Francis; and St. Joseph, model of strength for Catholic men. Council 114 takes very seriously its responsibility to encourage new members and their families to our brotherhood.
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