RUMFORD – Police are combing a broad area of western Maine in search of G. Michael Chaisson, pastor of the North American Old Roman Catholic church, who disappeared nine days ago.

Chaisson, 46, arrived in Rumford a year and a half ago and established the Catholic sect, chapel and store at Hotel Harris. He disappeared from his residence at the hotel Sept. 29. He was seen by a hotel tenant just before 6 a.m. driving off in a 1992 dark gray Chevrolet Caprice, four-door sedan with Maine registration plate, FRMIKE.

Rumford Police Department Lt. Wayne Gallant said his investigation has shown that no one has been in contact with Chaisson since he left.

The department is treating the disappearance as a missing/endangered person case, he said. He said the department has no suspicion that Chaisson was a victim of abduction or foul play.

Gallant said a note was left in Chaisson’s apartment, but its contents were unclear. He said it appeared that Chaisson took few belongings with him.

Besides pastoring the small church, Chaisson has also managed the hotel almost since its new owner, John Roza, bought the historic building a year ago. Gallant said Roza’s books are all in order and no money or other items are missing from the hotel.

“Our No. 1 concern is his well-being,” Gallant said.

Members of the Rumford Police Department and the Maine State Police have searched many of Chaisson’s favorite spots from Rumford to Rangeley, west to Errol, N.H., and south to the Lewiston/Auburn area. One flyover by the Maine Warden Service has also been conducted, and others may be scheduled, Gallant said.

A nationwide bulletin has been issued, alerting police agencies that he is considered a missing person. Chaisson is described as white, 5 feet, 8 inches tall, 210 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes.

Anyone who knows of Chaisson’s whereabouts, or who has seen his vehicle is asked to contact the Rumford Police Department at 364-4551.