Hundreds of people enjoyed wishing Father Frank Morin our prayers and good wishes as he retired on July 1, with a parish celebration attended by friends, family and parishioners in a crowded parish hall at St. Augustine’s Church in Augusta. It was a pleasure to read the report by Keith Edwards, who captured the event with sensitivity and described the joy shared by all who attended (“Father Frank reached outside of St. Michael Catholic Parish to help those in need,” July 1).

Indeed, Father Frank’s integrity as a pastor, his compassion for the suffering, the tireless support he inspired for educational endeavors and as an advocate for welcoming immigrants are among the many humanitarian qualities that he shared with everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Portland’s Diocese and parishioners have been enriched by his ministry during the many years of his faithful leadership. Moreover, it’s good news that Father Frank will reside in Maine during his retirement, where his focus on doing good work to help others will continue.

Juliana L’Heureux

Topsham