Diocese of Portland Announces New Director of the Office of the Domestic Church and Integral Human Development

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Portland is pleased to announce that Suzanne Lafreniere has been appointed as the new Director of the Office of the Domestic Church and Integral Human Development. Suzanne currently serves as the Diocese’s Director of Public Policy and Pro‑Life Liaison. She will begin her new responsibilities on July 1, 2026.

In this new position, Suzanne will provide diocesan leadership in promoting the dignity of the human person and strengthening family life across all stages of life, from conception to natural death. The Office of the Domestic Church and Integral Human Development will accompany parishes in ministries that foster a culture of life, support families, coordinate healing initiatives, and advance Catholic Social Teaching throughout Maine.

Suzanne will provide support for parish‑based pro‑life ministry, post‑abortion healing efforts including Project Rachel, grief and recovery ministries, pastoral care for the elderly and homebound, young adult outreach, and initiatives supporting marriage, family life, and the domestic church. She will collaborate closely with Catholic Charities Maine, the Office of Lifelong Faith Formation, and other diocesan ministries to strengthen parish life and uphold human dignity.

“Suzanne has long demonstrated a deep commitment to the dignity of every human person and a profound dedication to the Church’s mission here in Maine,” said Bishop James Ruggieri. “Her leadership, experience, and pastoral heart will be a tremendous blessing as she guides this vital ministry focused on life, family, healing, and human flourishing.”

Suzanne has served the diocese since 2012. As the diocese’s Director of Public Policy and Pro‑Life Liaison, she has represented the Church on matters of legislative advocacy, social concerns, and pastoral issues. Her work has included developing educational and pastoral resources, advising the bishop and diocesan leadership on emerging issues, and leading formation efforts for clergy, parish staff, and lay leaders.

“I am honored by the opportunity to serve the diocese in this new role,” Suzanne said. “Walking with individuals and families as they grow, heal, and encounter Christ is at the heart of the Church’s mission. I look forward to partnering with pastors, parish leaders, and Catholic Charities to strengthen the domestic church and advance the fullness of Catholic Social Teaching across our communities.”

Before joining the diocese, Suzanne practiced transactional law as an associate attorney in Portland, advising individuals, nonprofits, and small businesses on contracts, real estate, corporate formation, governance, and regulatory compliance. She is a member of the Maine and Massachusetts Bars and the U.S. District Court for the District of Maine.

Her leadership also extends nationally through involvement in the National Association of State Catholic Conference Directors and the National Diocesan Attorneys Association, and she has contributed to major diocesan and national events, including the USCCB’s annual pro‑life gathering.

Suzanne holds a Juris Doctor from the University of Maine School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from Loyola University Maryland.