LEWISTON – All events for the Saints Peter and Paul Basilica celebration from Thursday through Sunday, May 18 to 22, will be hosted by Connie Marchand, chairwoman, and members of the Hospitality Committee.

The festivities will include noon and evening concerts, receptions, a banquet and special Masses.

Assisting Marchand are Adrienne McKeone, who represents the Auburn Catholic Community that includes Sacred Heart, St. Philip’s and St. Louis churches; Anne Pontbriand, who represents St. Dominic Regional High School; and Louise Forgues, a representative of Saints Peter and Paul.

The basilica decor will be under the direction of Lorette Bilodeau, known for her artistic floral arrangements.

On Saturday, May 21, Earle Shettleworth Jr., member of the Maine Historic Preservation Commission, will give a lecture on the architecture of Maine’s Catholic churches, with emphasis on Saints Peter and Paul, at 9:15 a.m. Saturday, May 21, in the Dominican Conference Room. An open house will follow from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with guided tours offered.

At 7:30 p.m. the Basilica Choir will present a semiformal concert featuring guest soloists Dennis St. Pierre, Robert Bott, Leon Griesbach, Amy Vice and the Norumbega Brass Ensemble.

There will be a reception after the concert, and tickets are available at the Pastoral Center or at the door. Price is $10.

The public is welcome to attend all of the events. Those wanting more information should call 777-1200 or 783-2162.

The Lewiston Postal Service will set up a cancellation station in the vestibule of the Upper Church from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 21.

The post office will provide envelopes with a Madonna and Child postage stamp affixed to it and will add the Saints Peter and Paul Basilica cancellation stamp and the inauguration date of May 22, 2005.

The cost of each envelope will be 37 cents. Individuals may also bring their own envelopes, with postage affixed, to have them stamped at no charge.

The service will be extended for 60 days at the main post office on Ash Street, said Bob Gilbert, co-chairman of the Basilica Inauguration Committee.