AUGUSTA — Maine Gov. Paul LePage is encouraging residents to take part in community service opportunities in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr.

The Republican governor proclaimed Monday as the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service.

LePage said in a statement that King was “committed to advancing equality, social justice and opportunity for all.” LePage says King’s “teachings can continue to guide and inspire us in addressing the challenges of today.”

The proclamation urges Mainers to participate in community service projects on Monday and throughout the year.

LePage was supposed to attend the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. community breakfast in Waterville on Monday, but was unable to due to illness.