How Are You Preparing for the Messiah?
We wait in joyful hope for the coming Messiah, God of the Universe incarnate, who was, and is, and is to come. Oh come, let us adore Him!
The Communique collects important information provided by diocesan offices for parish ministry leaders. It also includes promotional materials for diocesan events and programs, where applicable.
Questions? Contact Meagen Farrell, Communications Specialist at communications@youngstowndiocese.org.
Printable formats in Word & PDF are sent by email. The full Communique is available below digitally.
Attachments are now provided as downloadable files in one folder:
- December Communique Text Only Bulletin Announcements
- December Communique Attachments Folder (images & flyers): https://bit.ly/dec2023comm
- Video: How to Save Communique Attachments
Announcements suitable or adaptable for parish bulletins are noted. Where applicable, attachments and graphic files are included for each office below: click to save/download the file.
Other Events & Shared Publicity
Events from around the diocese can also be found on The Catholic Echo Events Calendar. You can upload or find publicity for Catholic organizations outside of diocesan offices in our new Shared Publicity Folders. All at youngstowndiocese dot org emails have access to these folders, and others can request access.
- December 2023 Shared Publicity Folder https://bit.ly/dec2023sharedoy
- January 2024 Shared Publicity Folder https://bit.ly/jan2024sharedoy
Quote of the Month
“One can be joyful in hope because of God’s infinite love that extends to all. If we pause for a moment, we can behold this joyful hope in a child who joyfully hopes for Christmas or his or her birthday. I think that when Jesus says we need to become like a child to enter the Kingdom of God what he is saying, in addition to trust, is that we need to manifest continuously a joyful hope even in the face of the cynicism, sarcasm, and pessimism of the world.” -Bishop David J. Bonnar, Practicing Faith, Hope and Love: Living the Virtues Together in Tough Times
Photo: children waiting to present flowers to Our Lady of Guadalupe at St. Columba Cathedral (Youngstown) on December 12, 2022. Photo credit: Cindee Case.
For more Catholic inspiration, connect with the Diocese of Youngstown on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), Pinterest, LinkedIn and YouTube.
Chancery
Click the name of the office to read the full text of the announcements. Links to download the parish bulletin/publicity materials are listed below.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Safe Environment Bulletin Announcements (Bulletin Materials | Materiales de Boletín)**
The following bulletin announcement regarding education, screening, reporting, and victim assistance, should be included bi-monthly (every two months) in all parish bulletins:
- English Bulletin Insert: PDF https://doy.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Bulletin-Insert-Revised-2.pdf
- English Bulletin Insert: Image (PNG) https://doy.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Bulletin-Insert-Revised-2.png
- Spanish Bulletin Insert: PDF https://doy.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/DIOCESIS-CATOLICA-DE-YOUNGSTOWN.pdf
- Spanish Bulletin Insert: Image (PNG) https://doy.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/DIOCESIS-CATOLICA-DE-YOUNGSTOWN.png
Safe Environment Policy
Link: Safe Environment Page: https://www.doy.org/safe-environment/
UPDATED LINK: Background Check Requirements: https://doy.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/FORM-BACKGROUND-CHECK-REQUIREMENTS-2023-07-12.pdf
Who needs to be compliant?
- All active clergy, religious, seminarians, and persons in formation are required to be compliant.
- All employees in parishes, schools, and institutions, including the Diocesan Central Offices, are required to be compliant regardless of their level of contact with children or vulnerable adults.
- Any volunteer who has unsupervised access to a child or vulnerable adult, or who works directly with a child or vulnerable adult, or who is responsible for a child or vulnerable adult on behalf of the Diocese, must be compliant.
Compliance Requirements
- VIRTUS Account Creation and VIRTUS Training
- Visit the Safe Environment page on the diocesan websiteto create an account and complete the online training in either English or Spanish.
- If you completed VIRTUS in a different diocese you can transfer or mirror your account by emailing a request to the VIRTUS online help desk (helpdesk@virtus.org). Please include your full name, email address, original diocese and new diocese, your new parish / school, plus a phone number in case they need to contact you.
- VIRTUS training is valid for five years. An online recertification module is required every five years to maintain compliance.
- Aside from VIRTUS, child/vulnerable adult protection in-service or online courses from other agencies, employers, dioceses, Scouts, etc., are notvalid for compliance in the Diocese of Youngstown.
2. Authorization & Verification and Acknowledgement Form (Appendix 9)
- Visit the Safe Environment page on the diocesan websiteto review an electronic copy of the Safe Environment Policy.
- After you have reviewed this policy, print a copy of Appendix 9. Both pages must be completed, and the document requires a witness signature for validity. The witness can be anyone.
- The original must be submitted to the Compliance Officer at your parish, school, or institution. The Compliance Officer will forward a copy to the diocesan Safe Environment Coordinator.
- Appendix 9 may not be edited. If any lines of text are removed, crossed off, or altered, the document is not valid for compliance.
3. Fingerprinting and Background Checks
- Visit the Safe Environment page on the diocesan websiteto review our background check requirements, codes, and instructions, a background check location finder, and a list of criminal offenses that automatically disqualify an applicant from working with children or vulnerable adults.
- A BCI or BCI/FBI background check is required for compliance. In extraordinary circumstances, the Office of Safe Environment reserves the right to alter background check requirements for individuals, unless the requirements are stipulated by the State of Ohio. This includes the right to require background checks from other background check providers besides the Civilian Identification Office.
- Background checks are valid for five years and must be renewed to maintain compliance.
- The Civilian Identification Office must send the BCI and/or FBI background check results directly to the Office of Safe Environment at the Diocese. This needs to be communicated to the person doing the background check: Catholic Diocese of Youngstown, Attn: Office of Safe Environment, 144 West Wood Street, Youngstown, OH 44503
- If background check results are sent to the wrong location, they are not valid for compliance. Additionally, background checks completed for other agencies, employers, dioceses, public schools, certifications, etc., or in other States, are not valid for compliance in the Diocese of Youngstown.
A person is not compliant until their VIRTUS account notes the dates of completion for all three compliance requirements (VIRTUS Training, Appendix 9, Background Check).
Updating Information
Compliance Officers must submit a Change of Location Form to the Safe Environment Coordinator to add a new person to their Safe Environment Master Report or to request records from other locations. Individuals can be removed/inactivated by emailing the Safe Environment Coordinator. Compliance Officers should monitor the compliance status of individuals at their location via the VIRTUS database.
Reporting Child/Vulnerable Adult Abuse
If you or someone you know has been abused at any time by a priest, deacon, religious, seminarian, person in formation, employee or volunteer of the Diocese of Youngstown, or if you believe that abuse has occurred or is currently occurring, contact civil authorities and also Mr. Dominic Colucy, Safe Environment Coordinator/Victim Assistance Coordinator, (office) 330-744-8451 x293 or (response line) 330-718-1388.
To report a violation of the Safe Environment Policy that does not constitute abuse or suspected abuse contact Mr. Dominic Colucy, Safe Environment Coordinator, (office) 330-744-8451 x293 or (response line) 330-718-1388.
Visit the Safe Environment page on the diocesan website to find our most up-to-date Reporting Requirements and Procedures in English and Spanish: https://www.doy.org/safe-environment/
Questions or Concerns
For more information about the Diocese of Youngstown Safe Environment Policy, contact by mail: 144 W. Wood Street, Youngstown, OH 44503, phone: 330-744-8451 x293; fax: 330-744-5099; or e-mail: dcolucy@youngstowndiocese.org.
Please note that no priest or deacon may exercise ministry within the Diocese of Youngstown without being granted faculties/permission by the bishop. It is the obligation of the pastor of the parish where ministry or speaking engagement will occur (or other responsible person outside a parish setting) to ensure that the visiting cleric has obtained a letter of suitability. Without such a letter, the Diocese, the parish or school and the pastor or president could become legally liable should any wrongdoing occur.
The visiting cleric himself should ask his bishop or religious superior to send a letter of suitability to Bishop Bonnar. Letters of suitability are to be sent from one bishop/superior to another, not directly to a parish, since it is the bishop who is responsible for determining a cleric’s suitability for ministry.
If you have any questions, please contact Msgr. John Zuraw, Vicar General.
Letter of Suitability Request Now Online
Very Rev. Balash would like to announce a new easier way for diocesan clergy to request a letter of suitability in the event you are engaging in ministry outside of the diocese. A new electronic request form is now available on the Diocesan website at:
https://doy.org/ministries/clergy-and-religious/letter-suitability/
Fill out the form completely and click “Submit.”
The completed form and request will be sent directly to the Office of Clergy
Services.
Note: All information must be included in the request for a letter of suitability to be processed. It is asked that you submit your request at least 2 weeks in advance or earlier so that proper notification can be sent to the diocese and parish location that you will perform your ministry.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Diocesan Communications Collection – January 6 & 7 (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
You may ask yourself, “Why should I give to the Communications Collection?” And the answer is simple: Because the Communications Department exists to serve you. Their various programs—Wineskins and The Catholic Echo podcast, televised Masses, the Catholic Echo magazine and website, diocesan social media and even many of the announcements you see in this bulletin—are geared toward entertaining, informing and engaging you. If you’d like to support these initiatives (or future ones), give to the Communications Collection on January 6 & 7. Visit www.doy.org/Communications-collection/ for more information or to give.
Find a QR code and the logo for the Communications Collection labeled “ECHO” in this month’s attachment folder at https://bit.ly/dec2023comm Publish in the bulletin throughout December and the weekend of January 6.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Week of Prayer for Christian Unity (Bulletin Materials)**-NEW
The theme for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, January 18-25, 2024, is “You Shall Love the Lord Your God…and Your Neighbor as Yourself.” Resources for observing the week are available using this link to the Graymoor Ecumenical & Interreligious Institute, Franciscan Friars of the Atonement:
https://geii.org/week_of_prayer_for_christian_unity/theme_announcement_2024.html
Sacramental Records -Bound Books Must be Preserved -NEW
Sacramental registers that are bound books with handwritten entries are the only official and reliable record of the sacraments – these books must be preserved and maintained. These registers reflect the history of the cultural and spiritual life of the parish community. In no case should the bound sacramental registers ever be destroyed. While databases can be beneficial for tracking names and other information, they can only be used alongside the handwritten bound registers and cannot replace them.
If you need to send a notation for a baptismal record, or find a sacramental record from a closed or merged parish, but aren’t certain where the records reside, please phone the Archives, or check this page on Catechist Café:
https://catechistcafe.weebly.com/sacramental-records.html.
The Archives Office is pleased to search for sacramental records of closed parishes and is happy to assist parishes as needed: (440) 744-8451 x290.
Eucharistic Adoration Schedule Now Available – NEW
Very Rev. Lavelle has published the Eucharistic Adoration Schedule, also available in the December Attachments folder at https://bit.ly/dec2023comm. Search the listings by County or alphabetically by parish name at: https://doy.org/eucharistic-adoration/
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis Starts July 17, 2024 (Bulletin Materials)**
The National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis is scheduled for July 17-21, 2024.
Bishop Bonnar secured one hundred and twenty-five tickets for the National Eucharistic Congress. This gives an opportunity for parish leaders who are involved in the small faith-sharing groups, or parishioners who have an interest, to travel with us to Indianapolis for a five-day event of community, worship, and fun.
The NEC flyer in this month’s Attachments folder provides additional information and an updated QR code where participants can register now. We recommend you provide this flyer in your weekly bulletins throughout the year and print some flyers to post in your parish halls and entrances.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Week of Prayer for Christian Unity (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
The theme for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, January 18-25, 2024, is “You Shall Love the Lord Your God…and Your Neighbor as Yourself.” Resources for observing the week are available using this link to the Graymoor Ecumenical & Interreligious Institute, Franciscan Friars of the Atonement:
https://geii.org/week_of_prayer_for_christian_unity/theme_announcement_2024.html
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe | Our Lady of Guadalupe (Bulletin Materials | Materiales de Boletín)** -NEW
In this month’s attachment folder:
- Flyers for Our Lady of Guadalupe Celebration at the Cathedral of St. Columba in English and Spanish
All are invited to Mass at St. Columba Cathedral on December 12 at 6pm for the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Before Mass, we will pray the last day of the Rosary for Our Lady of Guadalupe beginning at 5:30pm. All 10 different Statues are going to be in the Cathedral before the Mass. Bishop will preside at the 6pm Mass with the priests that celebrate Mass in Spanish or help the Hispanic community. After the Mass we are gathering in the Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel to celebrate with dinner and different presentations for our community. For details, contact Cristina Hernandez at chernandez@youngstowndiocese.org.
OCP Trainer for Hispanic Music Ministry on December 2 – NEW
On Saturday, December 2 Cristina Hernandez is hosting a training for the choirs from the different churches that have Hispanic ministry. The trainer is coming from OCP. For details, contact Cristina at chernandez@youngstowndiocese.org.
First Annual Diocesan Las Posadas -NEW
On December 16 we are going to have our first Diocesan Las Posadas in St Dominic Church (Youngstown) from 6:00 to 9:00 with singing processions, traditional food and beverage from the different nationalities that we have in the Diocese and ending with the breaking of piñatas. The celebration of Las Posadas (Spanish for inn or lodging) is a religious festival celebrated in Mexico that commemorates the journey Joseph and Mary made from Nazareth to Bethlehem in search of a safe place to stay where Mary could give birth to Jesus. The first day of this celebration is on December 16 and it finishes on December 24 when Jesus born!
Tribunal In-Service Available
The Tribunal staff has made available an ongoing in-service for pastors, associates, deacons, religious, directors of religious education, religious education coordinators and counselors in order to prepare them in facilitating pleas for nullity for persons within the community whose marriages have broken down and who may be seeking a second union recognized by the Church.
The in-service focuses on preparation of case histories, compilation of documents, witnesses and determining of the appropriate grounds of nullity. Covered also are other types of nullity procedures.
The size of the in-service is in small groups of between 8-12 participants and generally runs approximately two hours. The in-service is offered at either the offices of the Tribunal of the Diocese of Youngstown or at a parish in the Canton area. Interested parties, who have not already registered or who need a “refresher,” should call the Tribunal at (330) 744-8451, ext. 252, to have their names placed on the registrant list. You would then be contacted when there are at least eight registrants for a particular location.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Safe Environment Bulletin Announcements (Bulletin Materials | Materiales de Boletín)
The attached bulletin announcement regarding education, screening, reporting, and victim assistance, should be included bi-monthly (every two months) in all parish bulletins.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Diocesan Communications Collection – January 6 & 7 (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
The Diocesan Communications Collection will take place in most parishes January 6-7. Support or learn more at https://doy.org/communications-collection/
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Week of Prayer for Christian Unity (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
The theme for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, January 18-25, 2024, is “You Shall Love the Lord Your God…and Your Neighbor as Yourself.” Resources are available using this link:
https://geii.org/week_of_prayer_for_christian_unity/theme_announcement_2024.html
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis Starts July 17, 2024 (Bulletin Materials)**
The NEC flyer provides a QR code where participants can register now. We recommend you provide this flyer in your weekly bulletins throughout the year and print some flyers to post in your parish halls and entrances.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe | Our Lady of Guadalupe (Bulletin Materials | Materiales de Boletín)**
All are invited to Mass at St. Columba Cathedral on December 12 at 6pm for the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
Click the name of the office to read the full text of the announcement.
Tribunal In-Service Available
The Tribunal staff has made available an ongoing in-service for pastors, associates, deacons, religious, directors of religious education, religious education coordinators and counselors in order to prepare them in facilitating pleas for nullity for persons within the community whose marriages have broken down and who may be seeking a second union recognized by the Church.
The in-service focuses on preparation of case histories, compilation of documents, witnesses and determining of the appropriate grounds of nullity. Covered also are other types of nullity procedures.
The size of the in-service is in small groups of between 8-12 participants and generally runs approximately two hours. The in-service is offered at either the offices of the Tribunal of the Diocese of Youngstown or at a parish in the Canton area. Interested parties, who have not already registered or who need a “refresher,” should call the Tribunal at (330) 744-8451, ext. 252, to have their names placed on the registrant list. You would then be contacted when there are at least eight registrants for a particular location.
Click the name of the office to read the full text of the announcements. Links to download the parish bulletin/publicity materials are listed below.
In this month’s Attachments Folder at https://bit.ly/dec2023comm
Christmas Giving: Flyer, Image & QR code
Season of Giving: logo
WarmHearts for Warm Homes: Logo, Flyer & QR code
Season of Giving
Each year, from November 1 through December 31, Catholic Charities hosts our annual “Season of Giving.” It is during this time of Thanksgiving and Christmas blessings that so many of our loyal friends are inspired to get involved and give back to the community. We offer a variety of ways that you too can get involved in this season of giving back to those who need our help the most.
- Pray
- Donate
- Volunteer
- Participate
- Get Social
To get more information on how you can get involved, please visit our website.
https://www.ccdoy.org/season-of-giving/
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
CHRISTMAS GIFTING PROGRAM (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
Catholic Charities’ Christmas Gifting Project is a great way to support the work of Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Youngstown, while giving a gift that has real meaning. All you need to do is make a donation in any dollar amount, and we will send a personalized, customized greeting card to the recipient(s) of your choice, acknowledging your gift in their honor (but not mentioning the specific dollar amount). Visit our website www.ccdoy.org for more information and to make your gift online.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
WARM HEARTS FOR WARM HOMES -NEW
In conjunction with “Poverty Awareness Month,” Catholic Charities will again sponsor our annual “Warm Hearts for Warm Homes” campaign (formerly Keep the Kids Warm) on the weekend of January 13-14. This important effort raises funds to help families with children, working poor adults and older adults on fixed incomes with utility assistance during the long, cold winter months here in Ohio.
In order to meet our goal and to serve those in need, we are asking parishes and faithful parishioners to participate in one or more ways:
- Parishes may take a special parish collection for Warm Hearts for Warm Homes during at least one weekend in January. We suggest the weekend of January 13, but please choose whichever weekend works best in your parish!
- In lieu of a parish collection, please share alternative methods of participation with your parish family. (see enclosed flyer)
- Share bulletin announcements and the flyer provided with this publication to raise awareness of the reality of poverty in our diocese and why special campaigns like Warm Hearts for Warm Homes are so important.
For more information, contact Jennifer Lucarelli at 330-744-8451, ext. 316 or jlucarelli@youngstowndiocese.org.
Included in this month’s attachment folder: https://bit.ly/dec2023comm
- Updated Flyer – Kolbe Gathering in Three Locations
- Updated Flyer: Prison & Jail Ministry Seeking Volunteers
- CRS Fact Sheet – Emergency Response in the Holy Land
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
CRS Emergency Response in Holy Land (Bulletin Materials)**
Violent conflict in the Holy Land has escalated dramatically since an unprecedented Hamas-led attack on Israel in the early morning of October 7. The deadliest attack in Israel in decades, it was followed by retaliatory strikes on Gaza. More than 1,800 people have been killed and even more have been wounded. The United Nations has reported that in Gaza, more than 300,000 internally displaced people are sheltering in U.N. schools, public places and with family members. These numbers are expected to increase as hostilities continue. CRS has released a facts sheet to inform individuals about what is happening in Israel at this time, as well as to ask for support for emergency relief efforts.
Fact Sheet included
Take Action for Human Dignity and the Common Good -NEW
Join the U.S. Bishops in calling for bipartisan cooperation in Congress to avoid a government shutdown and enact a just budget that reduces future unsustainable deficits, protects poor and vulnerable people, advances the common good, and promotes human life and dignity—without sacrificing vital humanitarian protections.
https://www.votervoice.net/USCCB/Campaigns/107829/Respond
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Prison Ministry Presents – Kolbe Gathering – Three Locations (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW LOCATION
Kolbe Gathering is a place for the formerly incarcerated and their families to join with parish-based volunteers in spiritual support and fellowship. Embrace spirituality in prayer, music, scripture reading and fellowship, all in a welcoming and warm environment.
For further information contact R.J. Mangan, Director of Peace and Justice, at rmangan@youngstowndiocese.org or 330.744.8451 x245.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Prison and Jail Ministry – Seeking Volunteers (Bulletin Materials)** -UPDATED FLYER
The Office of Peace and Justice is seeking to expand the volunteer program for prison ministry. If you, or someone you know, is interested in ministering to the incarcerated, please contact us. Volunteer opportunities available in all six counties.
For further information contact R.J. Mangan, Director of Peace and Justice, at 330-744-8451 x 245.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
CCDOY: Catholic Charities Diocese of Youngstown (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
Catholic Charities’ Christmas Gifting Project is a great way to support the work of Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Youngstown, while giving a gift that has real meaning. Visit ccdoy.org for details.
In conjunction with “Poverty Awareness Month,” Catholic Charities will again sponsor our annual “Warm Hearts for Warm Homes” campaign (formerly Keep the Kids Warm) on the weekend of January 13-14.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Office of Peace & Justice (Bulletin Materials)**
Click the name of the office to read the full text of the announcements.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Diocesan Communications Collection – January 6 & 7 (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
You may ask yourself, “Why should I give to the Communications Collection?” And the answer is simple: Because the Communications Department exists to serve you. Their various programs—Wineskins and The Catholic Echo podcast, televised Masses, the Catholic Echo magazine and website, diocesan social media and even many of the announcements you see in this bulletin—are geared toward inspiring, informing and engaging you. To support these initiatives (or future ones), give to the Communications Collection on January 6 & 7. Visit www.doy.org/Communications-collection/ for more information or to give.
Find a QR code and the logo for the Communications Collection in this month’s attachment folder at https://bit.ly/dec2023comm Publish in the bulletin throughout December and the weekend of January 6.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Call for Recipes! (Bulletin Materials)**
The Catholic Echo magazine would like to feature your favorite recipes in an upcoming print edition! All recipes are welcome. We will prioritize recipes for which the Echo staff can find photos to accompany the entries. For more information or to submit a recipe, email catholicecho@youngstowndiocese.org.
This can run in your bulletin anytime. You may use the attached Catholic Echo logo to accompany the announcement.
Fish Fry Guide for The Catholic Echo Magazine -NEW
The Catholic Echo is currently seeking submissions by December 13th for the February magazine: Fish Fries, Lenten missions, etc. Email your events (or questions) to Staff Writer Collin Vogt at cvogt@youngstowndiocese.org, especially for our Fish Fry Guide. Collin is looking for:
- Date of the fish fry
- Time the fish fry begins (also mention if you are planning a lunch and dinner service
- Location where the service will take place (please be as specific as possible!)
- Specialties: Anything unique that your parish offers which you’d like people to know about – for example, do you have a famous fish sandwich? Do you have special homemade pierogies? Do you have live entertainment?
- Direction for more information: how would you like people to contact your parish for more information? Do you want them to email you? Call during office hours? Do you have a Facebook page?
- Photos from previous years would be a great help to us as well!
To guarantee inclusion in the print magazine, please see our information about advertising: https://catholicecho.org/advertising/. The advertising guide for the February 2024 magazine will be Finance & Investment. With the new magazine printing schedule, we begin planning coverage 4-6 months in advance. Notify Katie Wagner about any major events or initiatives at kwagner@youngstowndiocese.org.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
The Catholic Echo Brand Page (Bulletin Materials)**
We encourage all parishes to put a link to the Catholic Echo website – www.CatholicEcho.org – on your parish home page. The Catholic Echo includes up-to-date news, an email newsletter, along with video programming, the Wineskins podcast, local Catholic news stories, event information and much more. Catholic Echo logos are included on the DOY Brand page: doy.org/brand
BULLETIN/PUBLICITY
The Catholic Echo Podcast (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
The NEW Catholic Echo Podcast will inform and entertain the faithful of the Diocese of Youngstown by discussing various topics that are relevant in the church today. Bishop David J. Bonnar begins the podcast with your host Fr. Jim Korda on the topic of the day. Various guests will continue to inform us on the same topic.
You can listen to the Catholic Echo Podcast at any time on the Catholic Echo website by going to https://www.catholicecho.org/podcast/ or on Youngstown radio stations WHOT-FM 101, WYFM-FM 102.9, WQXK-FM 105.1 Sundays at 6:30 a.m. The Catholic Echo Podcast is produced by the Communications Department of the Diocese of Youngstown.
The Catholic Echo Podcast, Upcoming Topics -UPDATED
Pastoral Letter: Practicing Faith, Hope and Love
December 3, 2023
Your host Fr. Jim Korda discusses The Bishop’s pastoral letter “Practicing Faith, Hope and Love” with Bishop David J. Bonnar.
Our Lady of Guadalupe/Hispanic Ministry
December 10, 2023
Your host Fr. Jim Korda discusses the upcoming Our Lady of Guadalupe celebration and Hispanic Ministry with Bishop David J. Bonnar, the new Diocesan Director for Hispanic Ministry Christina Hernandez and Ursuline High School Spanish teacher Paulina Montaldo.
Sadness and Grief during the Holidays
December 17, 2023
Your host Fr. Jim Korda discusses sadness and grief during the holidays with Bishop David J. Bonnar, and Grief Support Specialist at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home Sr. Pat Fessler, HM.
Christmas and Music as part of the Season
December 24, 2023
Your host Fr. Jim Korda discusses Christmas and music as part of the season with Bishop David J. Bonnar, Diocesan Director of the Office of Worship Fr. Michael Balash and Diocesan Director of Music Ralph Holtzhauser.
New Year/New Beginnings
December 31, 2023
Your host Fr. Jim Korda discusses A New Year and new beginnings for 2024 with Bishop David J. Bonnar, and Catholic Echo Editor-in-Chief and Associate Director of Communications Katie Wagner.
–
Wineskins (Bulletin Materials)**
Wineskins is now available as a podcast! Subscribe to Wineskins on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts or any major podcasting platform. Listen to Wineskins on the new Catholic Echo website at https://catholicecho.org/podcast/
Wineskins airs on the following local radio stations every Sunday:
7:30 a.m. on WKBN 570 AM in Youngstown
7:30 a.m. on WRQX 600 AM in Salem
9:30 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. on WILB AM 1060 Canton, WILB FM 89.5 Youngstown, WILB FM 94.5 Canton
NEW!: 6:00 a.m. on WHOT-FM 101, WYFM-FM 102.9, WQXK-FM 105.1 Youngstown
Wineskins Schedule -UPDATED
December 3, 2023
Current Issue: Fr. Jim Korda talks with Darlene Jones from St. Vincent de Paul.
Saint: Br. Dominic Calabro, SSP will tell us about the Immaculate Conception.
Interview: Fr. Jim Korda will interview Sr. Mary McCormick, OSU about the Ursuline Sisters.
Music: From the CD “A Cradle in Bethlehem Our Savior is Born” by the Kellenberg High School Choir.
Scripture: Msgr. Jay Clark gives us a reflection for the First Sunday of Advent.
December 10, 2023
Current Issue: Fr. John-Michael Lavelle talks about Addictions in his Life Issues Segment.
Saint: Br. Dominic Calabro, SSP will tell us about Our Lady of Guadalupe.
Interview: Fr. Jim Korda will continue his interview with Sr. Mary McCormick, OSU about the Ursuline Sisters.
Music: From the CD “A Cradle in Bethlehem Our Savior is Born” by the Kellenberg High School Choir.
Scripture: Msgr. Jay Clark gives us a reflection for the Second Sunday of Advent.
December 17, 2023
Current Issue: Fr. Jim Korda talks with Jill Valentic from Catholic Charities.
Saint: Br. Dominic Calabro, SSP will tell us about St. Peter Canisius.
Interview: Fr. Jim Korda will interview Joseph Torma from Walsh University.
Music: From the CD “A Cradle in Bethlehem Our Savior is Born” by the Kellenberg High School Choir.
Scripture: Msgr. Jay Clark gives us a reflection for the Third Sunday of Advent.
December 24, 2023
Current Issue: Fr. Jim Korda talks with Angela Wells from Catholic Charities.
Saint: Br. Dominic Calabro, SSP will tell us about St. Stephen.
Interview: Fr. Jim Korda will continue his interview with Joseph Torma from Walsh University.
Music: From the CD “A Cradle in Bethlehem Our Savior is Born” by the Kellenberg High School Choir.
Scripture: Msgr. Jay Clark gives us a reflection for the Fourth Sunday of Advent.
- Parishes and other diocesan entities who receive inquiries from the media are asked to consult with Justin Huyck, Director of Communications: (330) 744-8451, ext. 320; jhuyck@youngstowndiocese.org
- Please also kindly inform the Communications Department when your programs, initiatives, and ministries are featured in the news media.
- The Communications Department is available to consult on news releases regarding events and initiatives. Processes will continue to be developed to assist these efforts.
Recent News & Press Releases -NEW
See all News & Press Releases at https://doy.org/news/
November 1, 2023: Diocese of Youngstown launches “The Catholic Echo Podcast” https://doy.org/catholic-echo-podcast-launch/
November 2, 2023: Catholic Charities announces annual Season of Giving Campaign https://doy.org/catholic-charities-season-of-giving-2023/
November 8, 2023: The Diocese of Youngstown released a statement from all Catholic bishops of Ohio regarding the passing of Issue One https://doy.org/catholic-bishops-of-ohio-statement-on-passing-of-issue-1/
November 12, 2023: Financial investigation expands; evidence to be shared with law enforcement https://doy.org/financial-investigation-expands-evidence-to-be-shared-with-law-enforcement/
November 13, 2023: Obituary & Funeral Arrangements: Father Robert Kaylor https://doy.org/father-robert-kaylor-obituary/
November 16, 2023: 15 Lay Leaders of Prayer Commissioned by the Diocese of Youngstown https://doy.org/15-lay-leaders-of-prayer-commissioned-by-the-diocese-of-youngstown/
November 16, 2023: St. Joseph Care Center in Louisville to be Sold
https://doy.org/st-joseph-care-center-in-louisville-to-be-sold/
2023 – 2024 DOY Social Media Report Form
All those designated by your parish, Catholic school, or agency in the Diocese of Youngstown as the social media contact person are invited to complete the annual Social Media Report Form. It can be found at:
https://forms.gle/GtkmaJbUfEghgFaV7
Please note that the contact person listed in the profile will receive period emails from the diocese to support his/her work.
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DOY Social Media Networking – Winter Virtual Meeting on January 17, 2024
All those in the Diocese of Youngstown who manage/monitor/create content for parishes, schools or Catholic agencies social media accounts are invited to a virtual networking meeting on Wednesday, January 17 at 1:30 p.m. This will be an opportunity to share what has been working well and ask questions about challenges you have faced as we serve in the digital ministry together.
Topics will include a.) preparing for Lent 2024, b.) resource-sharing, and c.) discussion on the recent Vatican document “Towards Full Presence: A Pastoral Reflection on Engagement with Social Media.” It can be found online at:
https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/dpc/documents/20230528_dpc-verso-piena-presenza_en.html
Please RSVP to receive the Zoom meeting sign-in information by emailing Cindee at:
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DOY Social Media Networking Facebook Group for Social Media Contacts
This “Facebook group” serves as an ongoing network regarding social media. It can be found by searching for “DOY Social Media Networking” or click:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2882358088720802
This is a suitable place to share resources, ask questions and meet others around the diocese managing social media for their parishes, schools, offices, and agencies. The Social Media Minister periodically shares links and resources on the group page. You can also share upcoming events that you would like to invite others to so they can share in social media as well.
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Helpful Hint of the Month: New things to monitor on your accounts
A growing number of social media platforms are being “trolled” by bots and scammers. The larger your reach, the increased chance that you will be “hit.” A few trends include:
- Posts requesting “friends” (i.e., your comment caught my attention, and you look so beautiful in your profile picture, but it would be rude to request you as a friend so would you please send me a friend request?)
- Posts selling items (sweatshirts, banners, cups, etc.) with your organizations name on it but some generic logo or graphic
- “@Everyone you will be interested in this video or website”
- And the random emergency requests that used to be in emails, but have spread to socials, asking for money or gift cards to help your pastor, principal or director or your organization in general.
In addition to any anti-Catholic, negative or hateful comments that are posted, these all need to be hidden or deleted, and repeat offenders may need to be blocked. The good news is that when you block an account on Facebook, that blocks all the repeat offended posts on your site (so you do not have to go through each and every post they’ve made. Seriously, one such spammer posted 37 different posts in one hour and was easily removed!) If you need assistance with how to do these processes, feel free to contact Cindee Case, Social Media Minister, ccase@youngstowndiocese.org or (330) 744-8451, ext. 280.
COMING SOON: Diocesan Directory in Print & PDF -NEW
Thank you for your patience and responsiveness as we finalize the Diocesan Directory! Once completed, it will be sent as a PDF to all emails on our previous distribution list, plus any additional emails provided from orders, with the print version to follow closely after. All print copies will be sent by mail or available for pick-up from the Diocesan offices (expect another email/call when ready).
Information has already been updated at www.doy.org/priests and www.doy.org/parishes with more features to come!
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Videos on DOY Support for Parish Communications -UPDATED
The DOY Communications Department is in the process of recording a series of videos to answer your parish FAQs. We will discuss our various diocesan media projects and services, including deadlines and processes to publicize/cover your parish events or campaigns.
These recorded videos will be shared with all on our email list for Communications Professionals, which you can join here: https://forms.gle/EUz57Gg8sWN3rFjA8
If you have specific questions, feel free to contact Meagen Farrell at communications@youngstowndiocese.org.
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BULLETIN/PUBLICITY
Shared Publicity Folders (Bulletin Materials)** -UPDATED LINKS
Catholic parishes, schools, and lay organizations are invited to share your flyers, images, and bulletin announcements using Google Drive. All @youngstowndiocese.org emails should have access to these folders, and others can request access on a case-by-case basis. We will respond to all requests within one business day and appreciate your patience.
- December 2023 Shared Publicity Folder https://bit.ly/dec2023sharedoy
- January 2024 Shared Publicity Folder https://bit.ly/jan2024sharedoy
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Diocesan Communications Collection – January 6 & 7 (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
The Diocesan Communications Collection will take place in most parishes January 6-7. Support or learn more at https://doy.org/communications-collection/
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
The Catholic Echo (Bulletin Materials)**
Catholic Echo logos are included on the DOY Brand page: doy.org/brand
BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Shared Publicity Folders -UPDATED LINKS
Catholic parishes, schools, and lay organizations are invited to share your flyers, images, and bulletin announcements using Google Drive. All @youngstowndiocese.org emails should have access to these folders, and others can request access on a case-by-case basis. We will respond to all requests within one business day and appreciate your patience.
Clergy and Religious Services
Click the name of the office to read the full text of the announcements. Links to download the parish bulletin/publicity materials are listed below.
Clergy Formation Sessions -UPDATED
The following Clergy Formation Sessions have been scheduled. Save the Date! More information will be forthcoming.
- “Waiting In Joyful Hope” ~ Advent Day of Recollection
Date: December 6, 2023
Time: 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. (Dinner Included)
Place:
Saint Michael Parish – Canton
“…As we await the blessed hope and the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ.”
As priests, we need to be ministers of hope to the faithful. Our ministry is to provide them with a bridge from the troubles of this world to life in Christ. For that, we ourselves need to be imbued with a deep trust in the future God has planned for us. Advent is a graced season to be renewed in the virtue of hope, “for in hope we were saved.” (Romans 8:24).
Presenter: Very Rev. Nicholas Rouch, V.G., Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia for the Diocese of Erie, PA has taught at Gannon University and at the Institute for Priestly Formation at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. He received his doctorate in spiritual theology at the Pontifical University of St. Thomas in Rome where his dissertation addressed the relationship of Christian dogma and spirituality in the writings of St. John Henry Newman. He has directed retreats and days of recollection for laypersons, married couples, priests and for seminarians.
Priests are asked to make their reservation for dinner by December 1, 2023.
- “Be Renewed: The New Order of Penance”
Date: January 29, 2024
Time: 2:00 p.m. via WebEx
Presenter: Rev. Paul Turner
The revised translation of the Order of Penance invites priests to enter more deeply into the mystery of reconciliation. This presentation will explore anew the contents of the book: the order of reconciling individual penitents; the revised formula of absolution; ideas for the order of reconciling several penitents with individual confession and absolution, and sample penitential celebrations.
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Catholic Leadership Institute -NEW
The Catholic Leadership Institute will be working with Clergy and Parishes in the Diocese to support priestly formation opportunities and parish missionary discipleship. As part of a grant to Catholic Leadership Institute for this initiative, it is necessary that all active priests, deacons and parishes participate. Several introductory sessions have been scheduled for both priests and deacons. All active priests and deacons are required and retired clergy are invited to participate. Sessions will be held via WebEx.
Priest Sessions:
- November 27, 2023 – 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
- December 7, 2023 – 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon
- December 11, 2023 – 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Deacon Sessions:
- December 12, 2023 – 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- December 18, 2023 – 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
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Letter of Suitability Request – Now Online
Priests and Deacons requesting a Letter of Suitability can now do so online. A new electronic request form is now available on the Diocesan website at:
https://doy.org/ministries/clergy-and-religious/letter-suitability/
Fill out the form completely and click “Submit.”
Note: All information must be included in the request for a letter of suitability to be processed. It is asked that you submit your request at least 2 weeks in advance or earlier so that proper notification can be sent to the diocese and parish location that you will perform your ministry.
World Day for Consecrated Life -UPDATED
Please mark your calendars. Sunday, February 4, 2024, Bishop Bonnar will celebrate the gift of religious life at St. Columba Cathedral, at the 10:30 a.m. liturgy. All religious who have or are currently living and or working in the diocese are encouraged to attend. The Youngstown Vocations Society will provide a social following the liturgy. We encourage parishes to remember this day during their weekend liturgies and to recognize any religious who serve in the parish.
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Retirement Fund for Religious -UPDATED
On behalf of the 24,000 retired religious nationwide, thank you to all who participated in the Retirement Fund for Religious Appeal. Special thanks to pastors who graciously conducted the Appeal in your parishes, to the Religious presenters who spoke with conviction and genuine concern, and to all who listened and generously responded to this pressing need in the Church. May God abundantly bless each of you. – The RFR Committee
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Religious Jubilee Celebration -NEW
Religious sisters, brothers, and priests will celebrate the Jubilees of all religious who served in the Diocese of Youngstown on Saturday, April 13, 2024, at Blessed Sacrament Parish in Warren, Ohio. Bishop David Bonnar will be the principal celebrant. The day begins with a Social at 1:15 p.m. followed by dinner and entertainment by the JFK choral group. Mass will be at 4:00 p.m.
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Religious Returning or New to the Diocese -NEW
If you know of any religious sisters, brothers, or priests, who are new or returning to the diocese, and are living, working, or studying within the diocese, kindly ask them to contact this office at (330) 744-8451, ext. 238.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Vocation Intercessions and Bulletin Blurbs (Bulletin Materials)** -UPDATED
Click the links below or see the Communiqué attachments folder for vocation intercessions and bulletin blurbs. Please use these in your bulletins and at Mass to help promote vocations to the priesthood and religious life in your parish community and school:
Vocations Intercessions & Bulletin Blurbs: Word Doc
Vocations Intercessions & Bulletin Blurbs: PDF
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Vocations Social Media
- Website: doy.org/vocations/
- Facebook: doyvocations
- Twitter (X): @DOY_vocations
- Instagram: doyvocations
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Seminarian Posters and Prayer Cards
Our new 2023-2023 Diocese of Youngstown Seminarian Posters & Prayer Cards are here! They have been delivered to each Parish, High School, and Elementary School in the diocese. The Office has a limited quantity in reserve, so if you would like a couple extra, please contact the Vocations Office for more information!
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Come and See the Seminary Weekend: December 1-3
Saint Mary Seminary & Borromeo Seminary are once again offering “Come and See” Weekends. The next Come & See Weekend will be December 1-3, 2023. If you know of any young man discerning how God may be inviting him, please have him contact Fr. Chad Johnson at the Vocations Office for more information: cjohnson@youngstowndiocese.org.
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Vocation Director or Seminarian Visits to Your Parish / School
If you have a special youth ministry, parish, retreat, or vocational event that you would like the Diocesan Vocation Director to attend, please contact him at 330-744-8451 or by email at cjohnson@youngstowndiocese.org. Please remember all the seminarians we have currently studying in our diocese. They are all willing and available to come and speak at your parish or school. To schedule, please contact Fr. Chad Johnson at 330-744-8451 or by email at cjohnson@youngstowndiocese.org.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Vocations Intercessions and Bulletin Blurbs (Bulletin Materials)**
Development and Stewardship Offices
Click the name of the office to read the full text of the announcements. Links to download the parish bulletin/publicity materials are listed below.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY/BOLETÍN PARROQUIAL
Stewardship Bulletin Thoughts (Bulletin Materials | Materiales de Boletín)**
“Let us focus on generosity, or returning God’s gifts with increase, through the generous sharing of our time, talent and treasure.” It is recommended that every week, in every parish, a stewardship reflection should be included in the weekly bulletin.
Please see this website for upcoming Stewardship Bulletin Thoughts in English y Reflexiones del Boletín de Corresponsibilidad en español: https://www.archstl.org/about-stewardship/bulletin-inserts/weekly-bible-reflections
This month’s Stewardship Bulletin Thoughts and Intercessions in English & Spanish are also available for download from this month’s attachments folder at https://bit.ly/oct2023comm
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#iGiveCatholic Registration Open for Organizations -NEW
#igivecatholic 2023 registration closes November 3rd. This is our landing page where participants (parishes, schools, organizations) can register until November 3rd: https://youngstown.igivecatholic.org/
#iGiveCatholic, now in its 9th year, is a proven, dynamic crowdfunding event that offers an excellent opportunity for the Catholic Community to come together to give thanks, give back, and give Catholic! It is our sincere hope that numerous parishes, schools and diocesan ministries will join in this endeavor. The advance giving phase begins November 13th – 27th, and then Giving Tuesday is November 28th.
We are offering this opportunity to support and empower you to raise critically important funds to help with either special projects or for non-restricted purposes. We promise to do all the heavy lifting for you with the resources we’ll be providing along the way.
*To access step-by-step instructions on the registration process, please click HERE. It will take 5 minutes or less.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Stewardship Bulletin Thoughts (Bulletin Materials | Materiales del Boletín)
It is recommended that every week, in every parish, a stewardship reflection should be included in the weekly bulletin.
Pastoral and Educational Services
Click the name of the office to read the full text of the announcements. Links to download the parish bulletin/publicity materials are listed below.
Ignite Youth Ministry at Divine Mercy Parish, Massillon is going on a summer mission trip that will be at Jesuit Spiritual Center in Milford, Ohio on Friday, June 7 through Monday, June 10. If anyone is interested in collaborating with Divine Mercy Parish on this, please reach out to Cara Lipinski at igniteymohio@gmail.com between now and Feb 1st, 2024. Open to those coming into 8th grade, as well as 2024 graduates!
BULLETIN/PUBLICITY
Deadline to Apply for Limex: December 20, 2023 (Bulletin Materials)**
If you are interested in a part time, graduate-level program in theology and spirituality from a Catholic University, Loyola Institute for Ministry Extension Program (LIMEX) may be for you. Please contact Margie Hynes liaison for LIMEX at 330-744-8451 ext. 296 or mhynes@youngstowndiocese.org for more information about a learning group beginning near you. The deadline for applications is December 20, 2023.
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BULLETIN/PUBLICITY
LIFELONG LEARNING COURSES (Bulletin Materials)**-UPDATED
The Office of Faith Formation and Lay Ecclesial Ministry offers adult faith formation opportunities throughout the year. The courses are offered online and in person and there is no required knowledge of the subject to participate. Everyone is invited to participate. Our next upcoming opportunity is Advent with Dickens: Social Justice, Scripture, and Scrooge. For more information contact Margie Hynes at 330-744-8451 ext.296 or mhynes@youngstowndiocese.org.
Direct link: catechistcafe.weebly.com/catechist-courses
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National Certificate in Catechesis -NEW
The Office of Faith Formation and Lay Ecclesial Ministry announces a new certificate program for Parish Directors and Coordinators of Faith Formation. “The Practice of Catechesis with All Ages and Generations,” developed by the National Community of Catechetical Leaders targets both new and seasoned Parish Ministers. Through online and in person learning, participants will be mentored by nationally recognized leaders to explore the various dimensions of designing appropriate processes for adults, youth, children and for family or intergenerational formation opportunities. Pastors are encouraged to consider the benefits for their parish staff persons and to contact the office for more information. A generous cost sharing is extended. Persons interested are asked to make a commitment before Christmas 2023 for applications to be available in January 2024. Course one begins in May of 2024, with the certificate completed in May of 2025.
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Best Kept Secret: Library
What’s the best kept secret in the Youngstown diocese? Our expansive library of materials to enrich your faith. We have books, DVDs and audio books about bereavement support, bible study, devotionals and prayer. Explore our collection online at https://doylib.follettdestiny.com or visit us in person, 225 Elm St., Youngstown Monday-Friday 8am-4pm. Contact Margie Hynes for more information 330-744-8451, mhynes@youngstowndiocese.org.
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Personnel and Program Reports Requested
Thank you for your kind assistance to the Office of Faith Formation and Lay Ecclesial Ministry in maintaining accurate contact lists of parish personnel involved in leadership and on ministry teams as we strive to provide ongoing formation. By returning the updated personnel lists annually, persons are invited to formation appropriate to their areas of ministry. Additionally, a more accurate analysis of statistics is reported in diocesan, national and universal church data collection. Catechetical program reports are also requested. Diocese are required to report actual numbers of persons served in formation opportunities for adults, young adults, youth, children, families, and for sacramental preparation. Please provide us with the opportunity to verify accurate numbers by completing the catechetical report, according to your areas of responsibility. Please share information from others on your staff who oversee ministry areas beyond your position.
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Sacramental Preparation in the Parish
The Parish is the central community of faith expressed and lived out by the believing and worshipping faithful. All sacraments especially Sacraments of Initiation rightfully are celebrated within the context of the parish. All persons whether enrolled in a parish faith formation process, a catholic school or a home-based catechetical process are expected to be prepared for and celebrate sacraments in the parish to which they belong and where they worship on weekends. Please be aware of the parish of belonging and respect the expectations of the diocese and the particular parish.
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Lay Ecclesial Ministry: The Catholic Church Needs You
Pastors, Diocesan Pastoral Associates, High School Principals, Campus Ministers, and Parish Lay Ecclesial Ministers have received copies of recruitment flyers inviting persons to consider formation. Please make the trifold brochures available in your literature racks or in your office to share with persons who may be searching for meaningful work. Additional copies are available by contacting the Office of Faith Formation and Lay Ecclesial Ministry. Thank you!
Come Forth: The Promise of Jesus’s Greatest Miracle. James Martin, SJ. Harper Collins Publishing, 2023. In this wise and compassionate book, Father James Martin, SJ explores the story of Jesus’s greatest miracle—the raising of Lazarus from the dead—and what Jesus means when he calls each of us to “come forth.” Meditatively and carefully, Martin leads us verse by verse, offering profound reflections on Jesus’s lessons on love, family, sadness, frustration, fear, anger, freedom, and joy.
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A New Parish Guide to Grief Ministry: Creative Ways to Implement a Program of Healing and Growth. Anne Marie S. Mahoney. Twenty-Third Publications, 2023. This multi-faceted, approachable guide will renew your pastoral ministry grief program and bring hope and healing to parishioners facing the long and lonely path of loss.
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Laudate Deum: To All People of Good Will on the Climate Crisis. Pope Francis. United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, 2023. Pope Francis expounds upon the theme of human ecology presented in Laudato Si’ and the idea that humans and the environment are inextricably intertwined. This new document focuses in particular on the most recent extreme weather events and catastrophes affecting people across five continents. The Holy Father urges greater environmental action and notes how environmental degradation can lead to human degradation, especially in how the poor and marginalized are treated.
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To borrow these or other resources, the library and Office of Faith Formation and Lay Ecclesial Ministry are open for in person visits and consultations 8:00 am to 4:00 pm Monday through Friday. You may also visit our website at https://doylib.follettdestiny.com 24/7. Once you make your selections, you can email the request to mhynes@youngstowndiocese.org. We can arrange for your visit, a curbside pick up or direct mailing to your parish.
2023-2024 Respect Life Program Theme: Radical Solidarity -UPDATED
The theme for the 2023 Respect Life Program is Radical Solidarity: to be courageously pro-woman, promoting a choice that truly accompanies, and supports women and their children. Packets with sample posters and prayer cards have been distributed at the Regional Respect Life Meetings held in August or recently mailed to parishes. Additional materials and information may be found at www.respectlife.org/radical-solidarity.
Respect Life Program materials may be used at any time throughout the year. The theme of Radical Solidarity is a reminder that we are not just against abortion but we are for women and their children, especially through efforts like Walking with Moms in Need and many programs offered through Catholic Charities.
For more information, contact the Office of Pro-Life, Marriage & Family Life at 330-744-8451 extension 272 or dschmidt@youngstowndiocese.org.
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Forming Students for Life Groups -NEW
The wording of the recently passed pro-abortion amendment to the Ohio Constitution opens the door to minors making “reproductive choices” without parental knowledge or consent. This makes it all the more important that we educate our young people to make good choices for themselves and influence their peers to make life-affirming choices as well.
The Diocese of Toledo is blessed to have a full time Students for Life coordinator who helps start Students for Life groups in parishes, at Catholic schools and on college campuses and they have graciously offered to share her expertise with us. Her name is Allison Stump, she is a Walsh University graduate, and she plans to visit our diocese on Thursday, December 14.
As of this writing, the time and location for this meeting has yet to be determined. However, if you are interested in helping young people in our parishes, schools and colleges to develop and share pro-life convictions please contact Dave Schmidt in the Office of Pro-Life, Marriage & Family Life at 330-744-8451 extension 272 or dschmidt@youngstowndiocese.org.
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PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Project Rachel Outreach – December Message for Bulletin/Newsletter (Bulletin Materials)** -UPDATED
Jesus came for all of us and knows our pain. There is Hope and Healing from abortion. For CONFIDENTIAL help text or call Project Rachel of Northeast Ohio at 330-360-0430 or go to https://hopeafterabortionneo.weebly.com/.
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Intercessions for Life and Pro-Life Bulletin Briefs
Intercessions and bulletin briefs for July, prepared by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Secretariat for Pro-Life Activities, may be found at www.respectlife.org/word-of-life.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Mass for Life: Sunday, January 14, 2024 at St. Columba Cathedral (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
Bishop Bonnar will preside at a Mass for Life on Sunday, January 14, at 4:00 pm at St. Columba Cathedral, Youngstown (154 W. Wood St.). Bishop Bonnar will offer a special Blessing of Children in the Womb to women who are with child, and their families. In addition, there will be a blessing of pilgrims attending the National March for Life in Washington, D.C. A reception will follow. All are welcome – no reservations needed. For more information contact dschmidt@youngstowndiocese.org or 330-744-8451 ext.272.
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PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Do You Know Someone Who is Expecting a Child? (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
If you know someone who is expecting a child, invite her and her family to attend the Mass for Life on Sunday, January 14, at 4:00 pm at St. Columba Cathedral, Youngstown (154 W. Wood St.). Bishop Bonnar will offer a special Blessing of Children in the Womb to women who are with child, and their families. The Mass will be followed by a reception. All are welcome – no reservations needed. For more information contact dschmidt@youngstowndiocese.org or 330-744-8451 ext.272.
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PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
9 Days for Life – Tuesday, January 16 to Wednesday, January 24, 2024 (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
Join thousands of Catholics nationwide in the annual Respect Life novena, 9 Days for Life, praying for the protection of human life. Get daily intentions, brief reflections, and more. Sign up at www.9daysforlife.com.
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January 22, Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children -NEW
The General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM), no. 373, designates January 22 as a particular day of prayer and penance, called the “Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children”: “In all the Dioceses of the United States of America, January 22 (or January 23, when January 22 falls on a Sunday) shall be observed as a particular day of prayer for the full restoration of the legal guarantee of the right to life and of penance for violations to the dignity of the human person committed through acts of abortion.” Additional information and resources may be found at www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/resources/january-22-day-of-prayer-leader-resources.cfm and www.respectlife.org/january-22.
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The National March for Life: January 19, 2024 in Washington D.C.
Ever since the unfortunate 1973 Roe v. Wade decision by the U.S. Supreme Court, those concerned about the right to life of unborn children have gathered annually in Washington DC to March for Life. The 2024 National March for Life will take place on Friday, January 19 on the National Mall in Washington D.C. and will include a Pre-Rally Concert at 11:00 a.m., a Rally at Noon and the March for Life at 1:00 p.m. For more information go to https://marchforlife.org/.
If you or your parish, school or organization is planning to attend the National March for Life in Washington D.C. this year, please contact Dave Schmidt in the Office of Pro-Life, Marriage and Family Life at 330-744-8451 ext. 272 or dschmidt@youngstowndiocese.org.
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National March for Life Related Events
The following events will take place before or after the 2024 National March for Life in Washington D.C.:
– The March for Life Expo at the Westin D.C. Downtown Hotel on Wednesday, January 17 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.; Thursday, January 18 from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.; Friday, January 19 from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.
– The National Prayer Vigil for Life at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington D.C. usually begins with an Opening Mass at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 18 and concludes with a Closing Mass at 8:00 a.m. on Friday, January 19. For more information go to: https://www.usccb.org/national-prayer-events-for-life.
– Life Fest, early in the morning of Friday, January 19 in Washington D.C. before the National March for Life sponsored by the Sisters of Life and the Knights of Columbus. For more information go to: www.lifefestrally.com.
– The National Pro-Life Summit, sponsored by Students for Life of America, will take place on Saturday, January 20 from 8:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Washington D.C. For more information go to: https://prolifesummit.com/.
– The Cardinal O’Connor Conference on Life will take place on Saturday, January 20 from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Georgetown University in Washington D.C. For more information go to: https://www.oconnorconference.com/.
For more information on the above items, or other related questions or concerns, contact 330-744-8451 ext. 272 or dschmidt@youngstowndiocese.org.
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Marriage Preparation Engaged Couple Retreat Day -UPDATED
The dates for the 2024 diocesan-sponsored one-day marriage preparation retreat day for engaged couples will be held Saturdays, February 3 & March 2 in the social hall at St. Columba Cathedral. Reservations are required. Registration information may be found at www.doy.org; go to the “Ministries” drop-down menu and press on “Pro-Life, Marriage & Family Life.” For more information on this, and other opportunities for marriage preparation formation, contact dschmidt@youngstowndiocese.org or 330-744-8451, ext.272.
Liturgical Calendar Advisories for Upcoming Holy Days and Christmas/New Year -NEW
~Upcoming Holydays: Friday, December 9, 2023, is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception will be normal holy day of obligation this year.
~Sunday, December 24 – Fourth Sunday of Advent and Christmas Eve: This year the Nativity of the Lord falls on Sunday evening (Christmas Eve) and Monday (Christmas Day). Sunday morning (Dec. 24) is celebrated as the Fourth Sunday of Advent. Given that the faithful are bound by both obligations, please make appropriate adaptations to your parish Mass schedules for that weekend to accommodate the fulfillment of both obligations.
In similar past situations the Secretariat for Divine Worship of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has noted that the prevailing view is that each obligation must be fulfilled with a separate Mass. Thus, when obligations occur on consecutive days the faithful must attend Mass twice to fulfill the two separate obligations.
As stewards of the liturgy, we should do all that we can to foster a hunger for the Sacred Liturgy and a desire to celebrate both the Fourth Sunday of Advent and Christmas fully as reasonably possible. Also, please note that the celebration of Christmas does not officially begin until 4:00pm on Sunday, December 24th.
~Sunday, December 31 – Feast of the Holy Family / Monday January 1 – Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God: The weekend of Sunday (December 30/31) will be the Feast of the Holy Family. Monday (January 1) will be the Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God. While this day remains a holy day, the obligation this year to attend Mass on January 1, 2024, is abrogated. Nevertheless, an effort should be made to celebrate this day and the New Year with an appropriately scheduled Mass.
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Sunday of the Word of God -NEW
On September 30, 2019, a Motu propio Apostolic Letter “Aperuit illis” issued by Pope Francis established the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time as the “Sunday of the Word of God.” This year, January 20/21, 2024 will be designated as “Sunday of the Word of God” and is to be devoted to the celebration, study, and dissemination of the Word of God. Recalling the importance given by the Second Vatican Council to rediscovering Sacred Scripture for the life of the Church, Pope Francis explains the celebration has “ecumenical value, since the Scriptures point out, for those who listen, the path to authentic and firm unity.” Parishes are invited to find ways to mark this Sunday with a certain solemnity. For more resources:
https://www.usccb.org/committees/divine-worship/sunday-word-god
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The Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion -NEW
The Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion for catechumens and candidates will be celebrated on the First Sunday of Lent, February 18, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at Saint Columba Cathedral. More information will be forthcoming.
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The Light is On For You ~ An Evening of Reconciliation -NEW
The Light is On For You ~ An Evening of Reconciliation will return this year and be celebrated on Wednesday, February 28, 2024. Every parish should plan to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation that evening either by scheduling a Lenten Communal Reconciliation Service with neighboring/collaborating parishes or individual reconciliation. The Office of Worship will provide materials in the coming months.
G.F. Handel’s “Messiah” at Saint Columba Cathedral -UPDATED
The Diocese of Youngstown is partnering with the Warren Civic Chorus to bring Handel’s most recognizable work to the Cathedral of St. Columba! This concert will feature a collaboration with the Warren Civic Chorus Singers and the music directors from the Diocese of Youngstown. In the spirit of bringing people together and sharing great musical experiences, all are invited to come fill the Cathedral and experience this wonderful musical event. The concert will be on Monday, December 4, 2023 from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. followed by a reception in the Cathedral Hall. A free will offering will benefit Second Harvest Food Bank.
Attached are some publicity materials:
–Bulletin Announcement
–Concert Flyer for Bulletins
–Concert Poster for Bulletin Boards
If you would be so kind to publicize this event in your parish bulletin it would be greatly appreciated. Please contact Mr. Ralph Holtzhauser, Diocesan Director of Music, if you are in need of any additional materials or information: rholtzhauser@youngstowndiocese.org
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Parish Music Events – December -NEW
Walsh University Chamber Singers-December 6th at 7pm: St. Barbara Church in Massillon
The Walsh University Chamber Singers, under the direction of Dr. Britt Cooper, will present Lessons and Carols. The Walsh University Choral program is a musical organization dedicated to the principle of demonstrating, enhancing, and creating true beauty through the gift of collective singing. The concert is free and all are welcome.
Lessons and Carols-Sunday December 10th at 6pm: St. Columba Cathedral
Come and hear musical excellence at the Cathedral of St. Columba as the tradition of Lessons and Carols continues this year. All in the diocese are invited to come and let the music wash over you as the hauntingly beautiful “O Antiphons” setting by Peter Hallock are sung with many other musical anthems and hymns. This event is free and open to the public and a free will offering benefits the Cathedral Music Program.
Harmony Ringers Handbell Concert-December 16th at 6:30pm: St. Mary in Massillon
Come hear Stark County’s premier auditioned community handbell choir. The concert is free and all are welcome.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Bulletin Announcement December through January 14th (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
Support Our Catholic School Students Through the Ohio Scholarship Tax Credit Program
Ohioans can now receive a dollar-for-dollar tax credit of up to $750 for donations to the Good Samaritan Scholarship Fund. If you are filing a joint return and both you and your spouse make eligible donations, each of you can claim this credit (up to $1,500.)
Your support directly impacts a family’s ability to afford a Catholic education and the opportunity for more children to receive a high-quality Catholic education. Your support can be directed to any Catholic school in the Diocese of Youngstown and allows you to choose what your tax dollars support.
To designate your 2023 personal Ohio tax liability to the Good Samaritan Scholarship Fund:
- Estimate your 2023 Ohio tax liability. The scholarship is capped at the lesser of: your Ohio state tax liability, OR $750 per taxpayer ($1,500 for married filing jointly.)
- Make your donation online at www.doy.org/giving Good Samaritan Scholarship Fund OR go to https://doy.org/schools/parents/ Good Samaritan Scholarship Fund for more information and a form to download for mail-in.
- Claim your scholarship tax credit when you file your 2023 State of Ohio income tax return. (Credit may be claimed up to April 15, 2024. Submit your tax receipt.)
This does not constitute income tax advice. Always consult your tax professional for information on the impact of any charitable donation.
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PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
EdChoice Scholarship Available for Catholic Schools (Bulletin Materials)**
Please edit to include contact information for your local Catholic school(s).
As a result of Ohio House Bill 33, signed into law on July 4, 2023, all K-12 students in Ohio are now eligible for an EdChoice Scholarship that can be used toward Catholic school tuition beginning with the upcoming 2023-2024 school year. This includes currently enrolled children as well as any new student beginning their Catholic school experience this fall. Resources and updates are available at doy.org/edchoice.
The EdChoice Scholarship will cover a portion, or in some cases, the full cost of a family’s Catholic school tuition. A student’s specific EdChoice amount depends on the family’s 2022 gross adjusted income and family size. The amount could be as much as $6,165 per year for a student in grades K-8, and $8,407 per year for a student in grades 9-12.
Please contact your local Catholic school to learn how to apply for this benefit: doy.org/schools/contact.
Returning families are already aware of the value of Catholic education. Families interested in pursuing a Catholic education for the first time should contact the local Catholic school principal who will be happy to assist you. Availability for new enrollments will vary by location.
BULLETIN/PUBLICITY
Office of Youth & Young Adult Accompaniment (Bulletin Materials)**
New logos attached for Eagle of the Cross, Diocesan Confirmation Retreat, and “ARISE” Youth Summer Festival.
BULLETIN/PUBLICITY
Office of Faith Formation & Lay Ecclesial Minister (Bulletin Materials)**
BULLETIN/PUBLICITY
Office of Pro-Life, Marriage & Family Ministry (Bulletin Materials)**
Bishop Bonnar will preside at a Mass for Life on Sunday, January 14, at 4:00 pm at St. Columba Cathedral, Youngstown (154 W. Wood St.). Bishop Bonnar will offer a special Blessing of Children in the Womb to women who are with child, and their families. In addition, there will be a blessing of pilgrims attending the National March for Life in Washington, D.C. A reception will follow. All are welcome – no reservations needed.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Office of Worship - Music (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
The Diocese of Youngstown is partnering with the Warren Civic Chorus to bring Handel’s most recognizable work to the Cathedral of St. Columba! The concert will be on Monday, December 4, 2023 from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. followed by a reception in the Cathedral Hall. A free will offering will benefit Second Harvest Food Bank.
If you would be so kind to publicize this event in your parish bulletin it would be greatly appreciated.
Miscellaneous
The Necrology (In Memoriam) for Diocesan Clergy is now available online!
Many thanks to Robalyne Sciubba for keeping the printable Necrology updated.
Gratitude to Rev. Joseph Ruggieri who has created a Google calendar to help you pray by date.
Diocesan Cemeteries (Bulletin Materials)
Click the name of the office to read the full text of the announcements. Links to download the parish bulletin/publicity materials are listed below.
BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Christmas of Remembrance (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
We would like to cordially invite you and your family to attend our Christmas of Remembrance Event at all 4 Diocesan Cemeteries on December 6 and hang an ornament on our Christmas Tree in Remembrance of your dearly departed loved one at the cemetery. You can bring your own ornament or decorate one of ours. Doors open at 5:00 for registration, refreshments and ornament decorating and the prayer service starts at 6:00. All are welcome.
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BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Wreaths Across America -NEW
Flyer is available in this month’s attachment folder at https://bit.ly/dec2023comm
December 16 at 12:00 at Calvary Cemetery in Massillon. Help us remember the fallen, honor those who serve and teach the next generation the value of freedom by placing wreaths on the Veterans’ graves. All are welcome.
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BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Chaplet of Divine Mercy, Fridays at 3pm**
Flyer is available at https://doy.org/chaplet-of-divine-mercy/
Catholic Funeral and Cemetery Services of the Diocese of Youngstown will be offering The Chaplet of Divine Mercy Prayer Service in the chapels of our 4 Cemeteries at 3:00pm every Friday at alternating locations:
-First Friday of the month at Calvary Cemetery Chapel in Youngstown.
-Second Friday of the month at Resurrection Cemetery Chapel in Austintown.
-Third Friday of the month at All Souls Cemetery Chapel in Cortland.
-Fourth Friday of the month at Calvary Cemetery Chapel in Massillon.
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BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Rosary at 3 Diocesan Cemeteries**
Please share these bulletin announcements as applicable to your location.
Rosary at Calvary Cemetery (Youngstown)
Join us as we pray the Rosary at Calvary Cemetery in Youngstown on the first Wednesday of the month at 10:00am in the Chapel. We will be led by the Oblate Sisters of the Sacred Heart. All are welcome.
Flyer available at https://doy.org/rosary-at-calvary-cemetery-youngstown/
Rosary at All Souls Cemetery (Cortland)
Join us as we pray the Rosary at All Souls Cemetery in Cortland on the first Wednesday of the month at 10:00am in the Chapel. We will be led by the Parish Visitors of the Mary Immaculate from Blessed Sacrament. All are welcome.
Flyer available at https://doy.org/rosary-at-all-souls-cemetery-cortland/
Rosary at Calvary Cemetery (Massillon)
Join us as we pray the Rosary at Calvary Cemetery in Massillon on the first Wednesday of the month at 10:00am in the Chapel. We will be led by the Sisters of the Congregation of the Divine Spirit at The House of Loreto. All are welcome.
Flyer available at https://doy.org/rosary-at-calvary-cemetery-massillon/
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Please share these flyers and bulletin announcements as applicable to your location.
Other Events
FAQ: Where do I send my announcements?
You are invited to submit events and announcements for The Catholic Echo to catholicecho@youngstowndiocese.org.
Are you planning a parish music event? Please contact/copy Diocesan Director of Music Ralph Holtzhauser at rholtzhauser@youngstowndiocese.org.
BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Shared Publicity Folders -UPDATED LINKS
Catholic parishes, schools, and lay organizations are invited to share your flyers, images, and bulletin announcements using Google Drive. All @youngstowndiocese.org emails should have access to these folders, and others can request access on a case-by-case basis. We will respond to all requests within one business day and appreciate your patience.
