BIDDEFORD — Bishop Robert P. Deeley announced Friday that Alex R. Boucher of Biddeford has been accepted as a seminarian for the diocesan priesthood.

Colby J. Perron of Lisbon was also accepted.

“Colby and Alex are responding to a call they have heard to serve others. They begin seminary in order to respond to that call and discern whether God is inviting them to the priesthood and this life of joy and sacrifice which is in the service of God’s people,” said Deeley. “I ask you to join me in praying for them as they begin this new chapter as seminarians, that they find the fulfillment and guidance which they seek. … Our church derives its life and strength from the eucharist, and for this, priests are needed.”

Boucher, 24, was born in Portland, but was raised primarily in Biddeford. He has been assigned to Saint John’s Seminary in Brighton, Massachusetts, beginning in the spring semester of 2015. A graduate of Cheverus High School, he was active in parish life and youth ministry as a teenager and served for two years as a member of the Maine Diocesan Council for Catholic Youth, presenting workshops and leading retreats around the state. He is on pace to earn a bachelor’s degree in theology and religious studies from The Catholic University of America in Washington, where he also works for two national Catholic organizations and as an intern at the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA. He previously served as a pastoral associate in the Portland Peninsula and Island Parishes, providing assistance to the rector of the Cathedral and the pastoral life coordinator.

“Beginning at a very young age, the priesthood has been a realistic possible vocation,” said Boucher. “I attribute this perceived vocation to the slow and ever-present assistance of God in my life. The Holy Spirit has been at work by placing people in my life who have assisted me in my journey toward this decision to enter the seminary. … I am excited to begin priestly formation for the Diocese of Portland, the church that has nourished and sustained my faith throughout my entire life.”

In addition to the academic course work, seminarians participate in a full schedule of spiritual activities and direction. At each level of seminary training, the seminarian prepares for future pastoral ministry in various settings, such as schools, religious education programs, hospitals, prisons and parishes.