FORT KENT, Maine — This year, Sept. 11 will mark the 20th anniversary of the attacks of 9/11 and the Knights of Columbus in Maine are hosting a commemorative event to honor those lost on that perilous day and celebrate the retirement of a dedicated servant to the Catholics in the St. John Valley, Fr. James Plourde.
Fr. Plourde was ordained on May 30, 1982, and has served in various parishes throughout the Diocese of Portland. He will retire from 39 years of active ministry. The Knights of Columbus will conduct the first live in-person Patriotic Exemplification of the Fourth Degree since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in honor of Fr. Plourde, followed by an evening banquet at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Madawaska.
During the banquet, Knights from around the state of Maine along with other patriots, including an American Legion District 17 honor detail, will memorialize the sacrifices of all who have perished in service to the nation.
A challenge coin has been struck to commemorate this once-in-a-lifetime even, and will be presented to special guests along with those participating in the exemplification earlier in the day.
For more information, please contact Duane Belanger at 207-231-1932, or visit https://fourthdegree.me/.
Brother Knights who wish to participate may contact their Grand Knight of their council to register for the exemplification.
