Bishop Emeritus Michael R. Cote has led a life defined by unwavering faith, dedication, and service to the Catholic Church. Born in Sanford, Maine, on June 19, 1949, he was raised in a family deeply rooted in Catholic values. His parents, Paul and Margaret Alma (Trottier) Cote, greatly influenced his early formation, but as Bishop Cote recalls, it was Sister Celeste, his second-grade teacher, who said, “‘Michael, you will play the role of a priest in the school play’” that planted a seed that would later take root. During his college years he began to hear an inner voice saying, “Yes, you want to be a teacher, but you're not going to teach languages or math –– you're going to teach about Me.” Little did he know that this moment would mark the beginning of a lifelong journey, one that would span nearly five decades of priestly and episcopal service.
Educational and Spiritual Formation
Bishop Cote’s academic journey reflects his deep commitment to his faith. He attended Our Lady of Lourdes Seminary in Cassadaga, New York, before enrolling at Assumption College in Worcester, Massachusetts, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in philosophy. He continued his theological studies at St. Mary’s Seminary College in Baltimore, Maryland, and later earned a master's degree in theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome in 1975.
While studying in Rome, his faith deepened as he immersed himself in the heart of the Church. His ordination as a priest occurred on June 29, 1975, in St. Peter’s Basilica by Pope Paul VI, marking a significant milestone in his life. His path of service had officially begun.
Early Ministry and Canon Law Expertise
Upon returning to Maine after his ordination, Father Cote served as a parochial vicar at Sts. Athanasius and John Parish in Rumford and Holy Rosary Parish in Caribou. During this time, he demonstrated a strong pastoral presence and deep commitment to his parishioners. Recognizing his leadership abilities, Father Cote pursued further education in canon law, earning a Licentiate in Canon Law (J.C.L.) from the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., in 1981.
Following his studies, Father Cote was appointed Adjutant Judicial Vicar of the Diocesan Tribunal in Portland. His growing expertise in canon law positioned him as a key leader within the diocese. In 1989, he was appointed Secretary at the Apostolic Nunciature in Washington, D.C., the Vatican’s diplomatic mission to the United States. This role gave him valuable insight into Church diplomacy and governance.
After completing his term at the Nunciature, he returned to Maine and served as pastor of Sacred Heart Church in Auburn.
Episcopal Ministry: Auxiliary Bishop of Portland and Bishop of Norwich
In 1995, Pope John Paul II appointed Father Cote as Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Portland, Maine. He was consecrated on July 27, 1995, at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Portland. His responsibilities as Auxiliary Bishop included overseeing northern Maine parishes and collaborating closely with clergy and lay leaders. His time in Portland was a time of growth and preparation for greater responsibilities within the Church.
On March 11, 2003, Bishop Cote was appointed the fifth Bishop of the Diocese of Norwich, succeeding Bishop Daniel A. Hart. His installation took place at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick on May 14, 2003, marking the beginning of a 21-year tenure that left an indelible mark on the diocese. Reflecting on his time as bishop, he expressed profound gratitude: “Leading the Diocese of Norwich, walking with you in faith, and ministering alongside so many dedicated clergy, ministry directors, and parishioners has been a true blessing in my life.”
Leadership and Legacy
Bishop Cote’s episcopal ministry was characterized by his unwavering commitment to Catholic education, social justice, and the sanctity of life. He championed initiatives that strengthened Catholic schools and expanded outreach to the poor and vulnerable. His leadership extended beyond the diocese, serving on national committees within the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), including the Committee on Communications and the Subcommittee for Liaison with Catholic News Service.
One of his most significant legacies is his work with the Diocese of Norwich Outreach to Haiti, a program that supports humanitarian efforts in the impoverished nation. This initiative reflected his commitment to global charity and justice, embodying the Gospel message that guided his ministry from the beginning.
Bishop Cote also demonstrated leadership during challenging times. His actions addressing clergy abuse allegations within the diocese highlighted his dedication to transparency, accountability, and healing for the Church community.
Retirement and Transition to Bishop Emeritus
As Bishop Cote approached the age of 75 in June 2024, he submitted his resignation, as required by Canon 401. He officially transitioned to the role of Bishop Emeritus on September 3, 2024. Reflecting on his years of service, Archbishop Christopher Coyne, appointed as Apostolic Administrator of Norwich, praised Cote’s leadership, saying, “Bishop Cote lovingly shepherded the faithful of Norwich for 21 years.”
In his retirement, Bishop Cote remains a source of spiritual guidance for the diocese, pledging his support to Archbishop Coyne and his prayers for the future of the diocese. “The future of our diocese is in God’s hands, and we can trust in His providence,” he stated.
Bishop Michael R. Cote’s life of service, humility, and dedication to the Catholic Church has left an enduring legacy. His journey from a small parochial school in Maine to the grand halls of St. Peter’s Basilica is a testament to the power of faith and the seeds sown through simple acts of kindness and dedication.