This year, the Memorial of Saint Patrick falls on Friday, March 17. It is well known that Saint Patrick’s Day is a day of convivial celebration for many American Catholics. In addition, St. Patrick is the secondary Patron of the Diocese of Burlington. I therefore decree that on Friday, March 17, 2023, all Catholics of the Diocese of Burlington, no matter where they may be, and all other Catholics actually present in the Diocese on that day, are, by my authority, dispensed from the obligation (can. 87 §1). For those who make use of this dispensation, I recommend embracing some additional penance or act of charity during this Lenten season. The Most Reverend Christopher J. Coyne Bishop of Burlington