St. Andrew Dinner with the Bishop

Teenage boys and young adult men are invited to join Bishop James Ruggieri and local priests for a St. Andrew Dinner at Holy Family Church. It is a simple evening of prayer, supper, and honest conversation about the life of a priest and how God calls.

Date: Wednesday, January 15, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Holy Family Church, Prince of Peace Parish, Lewiston
Who: Teenage boys (high school age and up) and young adult men who may be open to a priestly vocation

This evening is meant to be relaxed and “no pressure” — a chance to listen, ask questions, and consider how God may be working in your life.

What Is a St. Andrew Dinner?

A St. Andrew Dinner is an informal evening that gives young men the chance to:

• Meet and share a meal with the bishop and local priests

• Hear vocation stories and ask honest questions in a relaxed setting

• Pray together, either through Evening Prayer or time before the Blessed Sacrament

These dinners provide space for real, personal conversation about priesthood that is not always possible on a Sunday or in a large group.

Why Is It Called a “St. Andrew” Dinner?

In John 1:38–41, St. Andrew is one of the first disciples to follow Jesus. After encountering Christ, he immediately goes to his brother, Simon Peter, and brings him to the Lord.

In the Eastern Church, Andrew is known as the Protokletos — the “First Called.”
St. Andrew Dinners are named after him because he not only responded to Christ’s call himself but helped bring someone else to Jesus.

In the same way, priests today are called to invite others to “come and see,” helping young men discover whether the Lord may be calling them to priesthood.

Who Is Invited?

This St. Andrew Dinner is intended for:

• Teenage boys (high school and up)

• Young adult men who may be open to discerning priesthood

• Those who may never have seriously considered priesthood but show faith, generosity, or leadership

Priests, parents, grandparents, and parish leaders are encouraged to personally invite young men. All participants should be of sufficient maturity and good moral character. All diocesan norms regarding the transportation of minors will be followed.

What Does the Evening Look Like?

A typical St. Andrew Dinner includes:

1. Welcome and introductions

2. Prayer (Evening Prayer or time before the Blessed Sacrament)

3. Dinner with the bishop and priests

4. Vocation stories

5. Open question-and-answer time

6. Closing blessing

How to Take Part

If you or your son may be interested in attending, or if you would like more information, please contact the Diocesan Vocation Office:

Rev. Brad Morin
Pastor, Director of Vocations
Parish Office: 207-827-4000
Vocations Office: 207-773-6471
Email: [email protected]

Rev. Erin Donlon
Assistant Director of Vocations, Parochial Vicar
Parish Office: 207-827-4000
Vocations Office: 207-773-6471

You may also speak with any of our parish priests if you have questions about priesthood or discerning your vocation.