Donate to the Saint Raymond Fellowship

The people who turn to the Church’s legal system often do so at important and deeply personal moments in their lives.

A spouse may be carrying the pain and uncertainty of a broken marriage, wondering whether the Church can help bring clarity and a path forward. A Catholic may be seeking to understand his or her status in the Church and whether there is a way back to full participation in its sacramental life. A family may be facing a difficult situation and looking to the Church for guidance, understanding, and a faithful way forward.

These aren’t simply cases. They’re people turning to the Church at important and often difficult moments in their lives.

Each year, the Metropolitan Tribunal of the Archdiocese of Portland handles approximately 300–400 cases of various types, while maintaining an active caseload of approximately 200–300 cases. Formal cases can take one to two years to complete.

Serving these individuals well requires faithful, well-formed canon lawyers who can respond with wisdom, competence, compassion, and pastoral sensitivity. Fellows help strengthen the Tribunal’s capacity by serving as support staff and, as their experience grows, taking on greater responsibilities so experienced judges and canonists can devote more time to the complex cases that most need their expertise.

Your generosity helps provide the education, experience, and support a fellow needs throughout formation, including:

• Graduate tuition in canon law
• Salary and benefits while serving in the Tribunal
• Summer study, housing, and travel in Washington, D.C.
• Books, technology, and other educational expenses
• Professional supervision, mentoring, and formation

Fellows combine approximately 20 hours of Tribunal service each week with their academic studies, putting what they learn into practice while serving God’s people.

The Fellowship’s scope is national. After graduation, fellows may be invited to continue serving in Portland or may choose to serve elsewhere. Either way, their professional and spiritual formation is directed toward strengthening the Church wherever they serve.

Because of your support, future canon lawyers can receive the education and experience they need today while helping the Church serve people more effectively for years to come.