Living the Virtues Together in Tough Times
In his second pastoral letter, Bishop Bonnar offers “faith, hope, and love” as “the answer to our present moment, showing the path through our challenges and grief.” Throughout the summer, may we continue to grow in virtue together.
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 communciations@youngstowndiocese.org.
Printable formats in Word & PDF are sent by email.
Attachments are now provided as downloadable files in one folder:
- July Communique Text Only Bulletin Announcements
- July Communique Attachments Folder (images & flyers): https://bit.ly/july2023comm
- Video: How to Save Communique Attachments
Digital Format:
The full Communique is available below digitally. Announcements are listed by diocesan departments and office.
Announcements suitable or adaptable for parish bulletins are noted. Where applicable, graphic files are included: click (or right click) to save/download. Attachments (e.g. flyers) are also included within the notices for each office below.
Events can also be found on The Catholic Echo Events Calendar.
Quote of the Month
“For through faith you are all children of God in Christ Jesus.” Galatians 3:26
Image and quote used in Bishop Bonnar’s second pastoral letter “Practicing Faith, Hope and Love: Living the Virtues Together in Tough Times.”
For more Catholic inspiration, connect with the Diocese of Youngstown on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn and YouTube.
Table of Contents
Chancery
Office of Safe Environment (Bulletin Materials | Materiales de Boletín) -NEW
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.
Safe Environment Policy
Link: Background Check Requirements
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 (Available on the Safe Environment Page)
- VIRTUS Account Creation and VIRTUS Training
- Visit the Safe Environment page on the diocesan website to 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 not valid for compliance in the Diocese of Youngstown.
- Authorization & Verification and Acknowledgement Form (Appendix 9)
- Visit the Safe Environment page on the diocesan website to 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.
- Fingerprinting and Background Checks
- Visit the Safe Environment page on the diocesan website to 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 or Other Policy Violations
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, 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, as well as links to additional reporting resources.
Questions or Concerns
For more information about the Diocese of Youngstown Safe Environment Policy, contact Mr. Dominic Colucy by mail: 144 W. Wood Street, Youngstown, OH 44503, phone: 330-744-8451 x293; fax: 330-744-5099; or e-mail: dcolucy@youngstowndiocese.org.
Letters of Suitability
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. 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.
Office of the Chancellor (Bulletin Materials)
Archives Office
Welcome New Archives Team Members!
The Archives Office welcomed new team members in May: Father Robert Lanterman, and seminarians Daniel LaPolla and Craig Ziobert. They are true blessings as we work to preserve our diocesan memory.
Help Preserve Our Church History!
The Archives Office is striving to preserve the history of the Church in northeastern Ohio, and you can help! Has your parish published a booklet for a significant anniversary, or a brochure about your history or your church building? The Archives Office would welcome a copy of it to preserve in our collections. Please contact Joan Lawson, Archivist, at 330-744-8451 x290, or email jlawson@youngstowndiocese.org.
Questions About Parish Records?
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
Office of Ecumenical & Inter-religious Affairs (Bulletin Materials) -NEW
Canonical Services: Tribunal (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
Rhoda Wise Annual Mass on July 7th at 6pm (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
Bishop David J. Bonnar will preside at the annual Rhoda Wise Mass on Friday, July 7, 2023, 6pm at St. Peter Church, 726 Cleveland Ave. NW, Canton, OH 44702. All are welcome to celebrate the witness of Servant of God Rhoda Wise. Find out more about her life and cause for beatification at doy.org/rhoda-wise.
For more information about the Mass or Rhoda Wise, please contact the Rhoda Wise House at 330.453.0322.
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.
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.
Catholic Charities Services
Catholic Charities, Diocese of Youngstown (Bulletin Materials) -NEW
First Step for Change Campaign -UPDATE
First Step for Change is an annual fundraiser held by Catholic Charities to assist low-income women, children, infants and families in need. We have asked our parish families to take home “First Step Packets,” learn about the program, complete a participation card, and return the packets to church. Funds are then forwarded to Catholic Charities to purchase food, formula, diapers, clothing and other essentials items to low-income pregnant women, families and children served in our First Step Programs across the Diocese of Youngstown.
REMINDER: all funds should be forwarded to Catholic Charities by July 31, 2023.
Donate online at https://tinyurl.com/mw2tf8b7
Special thanks to these area Knights of Columbus Councils and Assemblies for their support in underwriting a portion of the costs associated with this annual fundraising campaign!
Knights of Columbus, Council # 14186, Aurora
Knights of Columbus, Council # 11369, Canfield
Knights of Columbus, Council # 4484, Newton Falls
Knights of Columbus, Assembly # 2596, Youngstown
Knights of Columbus, Council # 554, Massillon
Knights of Columbus, Council # 3930, Youngstown
Knights of Columbus, Council # 1818, Salem
Knights of Columbus, Council # 2935, Girard
Knights of Columbus, Council # 11801, Garrettsville
Knights of Columbus, Council # 341, Canton
Knights of Columbus, Council # 11915, Poland
Knights of Columbus, Council # 5582, Navarre
Knights of Columbus, Assembly # 828, Canton
** gifts received as of 6/15/2023
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Catholic Charities Community Cupboard Campaign (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
We all know that necessities such as paper towels, laundry detergent, and bar soap can add significant dollars to our monthly grocery expenses. Many of the individuals and families Catholic Charities serves have a difficult time affording these basic products, which cannot be purchased with SNAP (food stamp) benefits.
The Catholic Charities Community Cupboard Campaign collects personal hygiene, cleaning, and paper products that we all need access to in order to maintain our comfort, health, and dignity. When Catholic Charities can offer clients these items, we help to affirm – and sometimes restore – their confidence and sense of self-worth.
—
Local parishes, community organizations and youth groups are asked to collect these taxable pantry items from July 17 through July 23 and then drop them off at the local Catholic Charities agency site nearest them. For a list of locations, visit ccdoy.org/locations, or call 330-744-8451 for more information.
Donors are strongly encouraged to call the site first to confirm delivery details, such as office hours.
Participants may also choose to purchase hygiene or cleaning products online through Catholic Charities’ Amazon Wish List.
(https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2J0BDUGRX81SX?ref_=wl_fv_le)
Alternatively, visit our Dollar Days Wish List, select the items you wish to purchase for those in need, and your purchase will be delivered directly to Catholic Charities.
(https://www.dollardays.com/ccdoy/wishlist.html)
Please support the Community Cupboard Campaign by visiting Catholic Charities’ website for more information at www.ccdoy.org, praying for those impacted by poverty, and by making a donation to the local Catholic Charities service site in your community.
Logo & Flyer included in this month’s attachment folder: https://bit.ly/july2023comm
Community Resource Guide -NEW
Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Youngstown shares the mission held by Catholic Charities USA: to provide service to people in need, to advocate for justice in social structures, and to call the entire church and other people of good will to do the same.
A Community Resource Guide was assembled to help those who help others, especially those in ministry at our local Catholic parishes, schools, and other institutions throughout the Diocese of Youngstown.
While Catholic Charities offers a range of services to meet local needs, we often rely on partners in the community to assist with the services we do not provide or when funding is limited. This Community Resource Guide lists those resources most typically needed by our clients and provided by various local organizations including, but not limited to, Catholic Charities.
The information in the print publication is also available electronically (by county) on our website at ccdoy.org/resource-guide.
For more information about Catholic Charities’ services in the diocese, visit ccdoy.org.
Image included in this month’s attachment folder: https://bit.ly/july2023comm
Lunch & Learn – Save the Date -NEW
Thursday, September 14, 2023 / 12:00 p.m.
St. Columba Parish Hall; a free lunch is provided.
Topic: Who, What, When, Where, and Why – Everything you need to know about Catholic Charities – from the agency point of view.
More details to follow!
Flyer included in this month’s attachment folder: https://bit.ly/july2023comm
Catholic Charities of Ashtabula County (Bulletin Materials) -NEW
Job Opportunity -NEW
Parent Café (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
Parent Café is a free, three-session, evidence-based group for parents, custodians, and guardians with children in the household ages 0-17 years, living in Ashtabula County.
Parent Cafés are physically and emotionally safe spaces where like-minded individuals can come together to talk and listen to each other on topics that are relevant to their individual situations. There are several sessions available during the summer months.
Please see the attached flyers for full details and/or to register for an upcoming event. Registration is required.
2 Flyers & Graphic image included in this month’s attachment folder: https://bit.ly/july2023comm
Office of Peace and Justice (Bulletin Materials) -NEW
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Prison Ministry Presents – Kolbe Gathering -Two Locations! (Bulletin Materials)
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.
Flyer in this month’s attachment folder: https://bit.ly/july2023comm
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Prison and Jail Ministry – Seeking Volunteers (Bulletin Materials)**
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.
Flyer included in this month’s attachment folder: https://bit.ly/july2023comm
CATHOLIC RELIEF SERVICES – RICE BOWL – LOCAL GRANT OPPORTUNITY
CRS Rice Bowl is the official Lenten program of Catholic Relief Services, the official overseas international relief and development agency of the United States Bishops. It was created in 1975 with the goal of entering into solidarity with our brothers and sisters overseas through prayer, fasting, learning, and giving. This Lenten program is conducted in Catholic parishes and schools throughout the Diocese of Youngstown. Seventy-five percent of the funds raised are sent to CRS for international development projects; twenty-five percent of CRS Rice Bowl supports local programs and initiatives that address hunger and poverty.
Local groups and organizations are encouraged to apply for grants that will alleviate hunger and poverty in your community. Guidelines are as follows:
- The project requesting funds must be operated within the geographical boundaries of the Diocese of Youngstown.
- Projects must be consistent with Catholic moral and social teaching.
- Recipient must be a not-for-profit organization.
- The project requesting funds should make an immediate impact to alleviate poverty and hunger within the Diocese of Youngstown.
- Grants are made on an annual basis only.
Completed applications (including required attachments) must be submitted to the Office of Peace and Justice by July 31, 2023.
Grants will be awarded by September 15, 2023. If you would like to receive an application, please send your request via email to charities@youngstowndiocese.org and an application will be returned to you.
Neighbors Not Strangers
Neighbors, Not Strangers is an interactive digital storytelling project by the Catholic Legal Immigration Network, Inc., or CLINIC. Through this initiative, funded in part by the Catholic Communication Campaign at the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, CLINIC hopes to share powerful immigration stories from their network to show how immigrants are our neighbors to be encountered and embraced.
This project can be accessed at https://clinic.shorthandstories.com/
Flyer included in this month’s attachment folder: https://bit.ly/july2023comm
Your Vote Matters
In order to vote in Ohio’s Special Election on August 8, 2023, you must first REGISTER to vote by July 10, 2023. Visit voteohio.gov for more information or view the enclosed flyer.
What is the purpose of the special election?
ISSUE 1 – Asks voters if Ohio should “Require that any proposed amendment to the Constitution of the State of Ohio receive the approval of at least 60 percent of eligible voters voting on the proposed amendment.”
2 Flyers included in this month’s attachment folder: https://bit.ly/july2023comm
Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship
Part I
Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship is the teaching document of the Catholic Bishops of the United States on the political responsibility of Catholics. It provides guidance for all who seek to exercise their rights and duties as citizens. As Catholics, we bring the richness of our faith to the public square. We draw from both faith and reason as we seek to affirm the dignity of the human person and the common good of all.
Part II
Part II is a consideration of the process by which these principles are applied to the act of voting and taking positions on policy issues.
2 Flyers included in this month’s attachment folder: https://bit.ly/july2023comm
Department of Communications
THE CATHOLIC ECHO -NEW
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
The Catholic Echo Branding (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW Brand Page
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
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 Event Submission Checklist -NEW
The Catholic Echo continues the tradition of sharing Catholic events around the diocese at catholicecho.org/upcoming-events/. This service is provided free-of-charge to any organization listed in the diocesan directory. We look forward to supporting your ministry of inviting people into deeper communion with God and neighbor.
You can email your event details to catholicecho@youngstowndiocese.org. Please allow a couple of weeks for our staff to post your event.
Do not send only a flier or image. Include the following details in a text format (copy into email or attach a word processing file):
- Event title
- One sentence summary
- Date(s) or deadline
- Starting time (or “All Day”)
- Location name
- Location address
- Attach a square photo/logo*
Optional event details:
- Link to event page that you update (no additional information required!!)
- Event Type (see list at org/upcoming-events/)
- Location photo and County (if new)
- Bulletin announcement (2-3 sentences)
- Detailed text description
- Organizer (name, email, phone number)
- Schedule details: end date/time, multi-day event, or repeating event
- Resource link (ex: main website, social media account)
- Document attachments (registration form, flier) in JPEG, DOCX or PDF format
- Tags, a.k.a. search engine keywords
*If a square photo/logo is not included, then we will use a stock photo, or convert any submitted fliers or banners into a square image. This increases our required staff time and delays publication of events. Best practice is to send a square photo that you own without text in JPEG format, RBG coloring, between 72dpi to 300dpi, and up to 750×750 pixels.
This checklist is available in this month’s attachment folder: https://bit.ly/july2023comm
Multimedia | CTNY (Bulletin Materials) -NEW
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Wineskins (Bulletin Materials)
Wineskins is now available as a podcast! Subscribe to Wineskins on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts or any major podcasting platform.
Wineskins airs 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 Canton 1060, WILB FM 89.5 Youngstown, WILB FM 94.5 Canton
Listen to Wineskins on the new Catholic Echo website at https://catholicecho.org/podcast/
Wineskins Schedule -NEW
July 2, 2023
- Current Issue: Fr. Korda talks with Jill Valentic from Catholic Charities.
- Saint: Jim Krivanek will inform us about St. Aloysius Gonzaga.
- Interview: Fr. Korda will interview newly ordained priest Fr. Bob England.
- Music: From the CD “Come, You Who Labor” by Vince Ambrosetti.
- Scripture: Fr. Tom Eisweirth gives us a reflection for the Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time.
July 9, 2023
- Current Issue: Fr. John-Michael Lavelle in his Life Issues Segment tells us about the Media.
- Saint: Jim Krivanek will inform us about St. James the Greater.
- Interview: Fr. Korda will interview newly ordained priest Fr. John Rovnak.
- Music: From the CD “Come, You Who Labor” by Vince Ambrosetti.
- Scripture: Fr. Tom Eisweirth gives us a reflection for the Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time.
July 16, 2023
- Current Issue: Fr. Korda talks with Raymond Housteau from Catholic Charities.
- Saint: Jim Krivanek will inform us about St. Agatha.
- Interview: Fr. Korda will interview newly ordained priest Fr. Fritz Schlueter.
- Music: From the CD “Come, You Who Labor” by Vince Ambrosetti.
- Scripture: Fr. Tom Eisweirth gives us a reflection for the Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time.
July 23, 2023
- Current Issue: Fr. Jim Korda interviews Martha Coulter on the Cursillo Ministry.
- Saint: Jim Krivanek will inform us about St. Lucy
- Interview: Fr. Korda will interview Lou Zona from The Butler Institute of Art.
- Music: From the CD “Come, You Who Labor” by Vince Ambrosetti.
- Scripture: Fr. Tom Eisweirth gives us a reflection for the Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time.
July 30, 2023
- Current Issue: Fr. Jim Korda interviews Latasha Johnson on Vantage Aging.
- Saint: Jim Krivanek will inform us about St. Jude.
- Interview: Fr. Korda will interview Taylor Tripodi from the First Friday Club.
- Music: From the CD “Come, You Who Labor” by Vince Ambrosetti.
- Scripture: Fr. Tom Eisweirth gives us a reflection for the Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time.
Media Relations
1. 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
2. Please also kindly inform the Communications Department when your programs, initiatives, and ministries are featured in the news media.
3. The Communications Department is available to consult on news releases regarding events and initiatives. Processes will continue to be developed to assist these efforts.
Office of Social Media -NEW
1. DOY Social Media Networking Facebook Group for Social Media Contacts
Notes from the April 20 Social Media Networking meeting were posted to the Facebook group page, including a list of recent demographics for popular platforms. This ongoing network regarding social media can be found on Facebook in a private group 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 doing social media for their parishes, schools, offices and agencies. You can also share upcoming events that you’d like to invite others to so they can share in social media as well. This is also a key way the Social Media Minister is sharing insights as to avoid overwhelming contacts email boxes.
2. Social Media helpful hint of the month – Visit the Social Media page on The Catholic Echo website -NEW
Did you know that several of the “Helpful Hints of the Month” have been posted on the Social Media page on The Catholic Echo website? This makes it easy to look them up for quick reference and to share with your social media/digital ministry team members.
Visit the Social Media page by clicking “Social” on the page menu or click: https://catholicecho.org/social-media/
The direct link to the helpful hints is: https://catholicecho.org/category/social-media-helpful-hints/
Internal Communications (Bulletin Materials) -NEW
Diocesan Directory Update -NEW
An updated directory was not emailed in May due to in-process assignments and announcements; these are now available at https://doy.org/decrees-assignments/.
IMPORTANT: Please send directory updates or corrections that are effective July 1st by using this form: https://forms.gle/GFX45J5cZt9CuRoQA
(Official announcements will automatically be included)
In July, an updated digital (PDF) version of the diocesan directory will be emailed to the official @youngstowndiocese.org email for parishes, priests, and schools. This printable PDF is being made available as a free benefit to parishes, as part of each parish’s contribution to The Catholic Echo. DOY.org will also be updated at that time.
BULLETIN/PUBLICITY
2023 DOY Brand Files, including 80th Anniversary edition (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
The Diocese of Youngstown released a new brand in Spring 2023. Please replace our former logo with the new images, now available at https://doy.org/brand/ . New exterior signage has been installed on West Wood Street and Elm Street.
On this page you will find our brand files for:
- Diocese of Youngstown logo,
- DOY 80th Anniversary logo,
- Bishop Bonnar’s official photos and coat of arms, and
- The Catholic Echo logo files.
BULLETIN/PUBLICITY
Shared Publicity Folders (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
The Communiqué is currently only sharing announcements from Diocesan offices. Other diocesan entities are invited to submit events and announcements to The Catholic Echo at catholicecho@youngstowndiocese.org.
In addition to The Catholic Echo online calendar, members of our DOY Internal Communications Professionals group suggested creating a Shared Publicity folder for bulletin announcements, flyers, and images. 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, and others can request access on a case-by-case basis.
Questions? Contact Meagen Farrell at mfarrell@youngstowndiocese.org or 330.744.8451 x275.
Clergy and Religious Services
Office of Clergy Services
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.”
The completed form and request will be sent directly to the Office of Clergy Services.
You can also access the form by going to:
- www.doy.org.
- Click on the “Ministries” tab and then “Clergy and Religious” tab.
- Scroll down to the “Letter of Suitability” button and click.
- 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.
OCIA Workshop ~ Save the Date! August 21
“The Vision of the NEW Order of Christian Initiation of Adults”
~Monday – August 21, 2023 – Saint William Church, Champion
~Clergy / Pastoral Minister Session: 12:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. (Lunch included)
~Parish RCIA Team Member Session: 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
(Clergy / Pastoral Minister can attend either session)
~Featured Presenter: Mrs. Rita Thiron, Executive Director, Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions (FDLC).
2023 Priest Convocation
“4 Pillars of Priestly Well-Being”
“Do you want to be well…” (John 5:6)
September 4-7, 2023
Oglebay Resort Center 465 Lodge Drive, Wheeling, West Virginia www.oglebay.com
Keynote Presenters:
~The Most Reverend Edward Malesic, Bishop of Cleveland
~Very Reverend Nicholas Rouch, Vicar for Clergy, Diocese of Erie
~Reverend John Sawicki, Political Science Professor, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh
~Rev. Leo Patalinghug, Creator of the Plating Grace & Grub Food Truck Social Enterprise
Breakout Workshops
~The Right Diet
~Staying Fit
~Financial Planning
~Understanding Professional Boundaries
- Prayer, Mass, Reconciliation, Holy Hour
- Religious Goods, Social Gatherings, Rela and Entertainment
Registration Information Coming in June
2023 Notre Dame Preaching Conference
The 2023 Marten Program Preaching Conference, “Visions of the Reign of God: Preaching and Catholic Social Teaching,” will be held on June 26-28, 2023 at the University of Notre Dame.
Keynote Speakers include: Archbishop John Wester, Cardinal Wilton Gregory, Mary Novak, Barbara Reid OP, and Jorge Presamnes OP.
More information and registration materials can be found at: https://theology.nd.edu/graduate-programs/initiatives/marten-program/conferences-lectures/2023-conference/
Registration $350.00 after May 1, 2023. Residence Hall Housing $80/night ~ Morris Inn $135/night.
Office of Church Vocations (Bulletin Materials) -NEW
Newly Ordained Assignments -NEW
With gratitude, we thank you for your continued prayers and outpouring of support for our newly ordained Priests and Deacons. Bishop Bonnar has made the following pastoral assignments:
Rev. Mr. Kevin Bertleff: St. Joseph Parish, Randolph & St. Peter of the Fields Parish, Rootstown, in addition to completing study at St. Mary Seminary & Graduate School of Theology in Cleveland.
Rev. Mr. William Wainio: St. Jude Parish, Columbiana & Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, E. Palestine, in addition to completing study at St. Mary Seminary & Graduate School of Theology.
Rev. Robert England III: Parochial Vicar at St. Christine Parish, Our Lady of Sorrows Parish, & St. Brendan Parish, Youngstown.
Rev. John Rovnak: Parochial Vicar at Holy Family Parish, Poland and Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Parish, Lowellville, and Chaplain at Cardinal Mooney High School.
Rev. Frederick Schlueter: Parochial Vicar at St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Canton and Holy Family Parish, Brewster/Navarre.
The First Annual Bishop’s Golf Classic (Bulletin Materials) -NEW DETAILS
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Calling all golfers! The Vocations Office is pleased to announce the First Annual Bishop’s Golf Classic. This new initiative is a fundraiser in support of the education and needs of our Diocesan Seminarians. This first Golf Classic will be held on Wednesday, August 2, 2023.
Our campaign for golf teams of four and for sponsors is in full swing. The Office of Church Vocations has provided each parish with both physical and digital copies of our advertising material. Attached to the Communiqué will be another set of digital copies. We thank you for your generous support of our Diocesan Seminarians. Questions or inquiries may be directed to either Fr. Chad Johnson at 330-744-8451 or cjohnson@youngstowndiocese.org or Dcn. William Wainio at wwainio@youngstowndiocese.org.
Please see the attachments folder: https://bit.ly/july2023comm
Seminarian Posters and Prayer Cards
As another year of formation comes to a close, we prepare to celebrate our seminarians who will be ordained and welcome new candidates into our program. Watch this space for updates on the new 2023-2024 Poster and Prayer Card!
Vocation Director at 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 Fr. Chad Johnson at 330-744-8451 or by email at cjohnson@youngstowndiocese.org.
Come and See the Seminary Weekends
Saint Mary Seminary & Borromeo Seminary are once again offering “Come and See” Weekends. Watch this space as the Seminary prepares for another academic year.
Seminarian Visits to Your School or Parish
Please remember all of 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
Vocation Intercessions and Bulletin Blurbs (Bulletin Materials) -NEW
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 Social Media
- Website: doy.org/vocations
- Facebook: doyvocations
- Twitter: doy_vocations
- Instagram: doyvocations
Development and Stewardship Offices
Office of the Annual Diocesan Appeal (Bulletin Materials)
ANNUAL DIOCESAN APPEAL: ONE IN HOPE, ONE IN MISSION
The official end of phase one of the campaign was Pentecost – May 28th. Over the summer, updates will be emailed out every other week.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Find bulletin announcements and more resources from Fr. Lavelle in both English and Spanish under “Parish Toolkit and Updates” at www.doy.org/appeal/
Office of Development and Stewardship
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Stewardship Bulletin Thoughts (Bulletin Materials | Materiales del 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 in English & Spanish are available for download from this month’s Attachments folder at https://bit.ly/july2023comm
Pastoral and Educational Services
Office of Faith Formation and Lay Ecclesial Ministry (Bulletin Materials) -NEW
BULLETIN/PUBLICITY
CATHOLIC DIOCESE LIBRARY (Bulletin Materials)**
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.
New in the Library -NEW
Good News People: Faith, Hope and Love in Action. Just Faith Ministries, 2014. A Dynamic parish-wide faith formation program that deepens and explores the call to discipleship. Each session incorporates Sacred Scripture, inspirational readings and reflections, Church teaching, stories of faith, and the cultivation of virtue. Participants explore the possibilities of a faithful commitment to be “good news to the poor.” It is an opportunity to explore the message of Christ and proclaim Christ anew. Through the witness of Jesus in the Gospels and everyday people who have chosen the path of love, the program kindles new passion and engagement in the Church’s mission to be Good News.
Seeing with the Heart: A Guide to Navigating Life’s Adventures. Kevin O’ Brien, SJ. Loyola Press, 2022. Respected Jesuit educator and spiritual director Kevin O’Brien invites you to recognize the opportunities to uncover your meaning and purpose as you navigate the turbulent river of life. Seeing with the Heart is a tour de force that weaves together the author’s personal experiences, the 16th-century wisdom of St. Ignatius of Loyola, and the insights of sages, poets, artists, and storytellers through the ages. O’Brien reveals how we can realize our potential by embracing our struggles with courage, our questions with curiosity, and our destiny with boldness as we tap into our deepest desires and live lives of authenticity. Journeying through this book, with its inspiring prose and practical spiritual exercises, will cause a dramatic shift in your perspective. Your day-to-day life will be transformed by a better understanding of who you are and what you are called to be, as well as by a closer relationship with God and others. As O’Brien writes, “If we persist on the journey, with its signposts in the form of questions, we might discover something remarkable: this God whom we seek, and question is actually seeking us more.”
Rethinking Catholic Devotions: Energy, Engagement, Transformation! Jim Clarke. Paulist Press, 2022. The author addresses the broad topic of devotionalism in the Catholic Church―its implications for a mature spirituality in individuals, and its impact on the ecclesial community. He does this by examining a variety of well-known Catholic devotions across cultural lines to probe the truth and meaning of each of these lines of faith expression.
Lifelong Learning Courses for Summer
Please visit Catechist Cafe at catechistcafe.weebly.com under the tab “For Catechists” for a description of the new adult learning opportunities. All courses are open to anyone wanting to grow in their faith. These courses are offered online and in person. You don’t need to have prior knowledge to participate. For more information contact Margie Hynes at 330-744-8451ext. 296 or mhynes@youngstowndiocese.org.
August 21: Annual Gathering for Christian Initiation
Mark your calendar and plan to participate in the Monday, August 21, 2023 session on the New Order of Christian Initiation of Adults! The afternoon session with lunch 12:30 – 3:30 pm, and the evening session will be from 6:30 – 8:30 pm. Both sessions will be at St. William Parish in Champion. Featured presenter is Rita Thiron, Executive Director of the Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions.
Beginning Anew: The Vision of The OCIA 2023
A Conference for Catechumenal Ministers and Pastoral Leaders sponsored by Liturgy Training Publications will be held August 1-3, 2023, in Chicago. Visit NGCI.org for additional information and registration. Learn from experts on how to implement the vision of the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults through this conference.
Pastors Seeking Parish Ministers
Pastors hoping to secure additional or new Parish Ministers serving in the areas of pastoral ministry, faith formation, youth ministry or young adult ministry are asked to contact Barbara Walko for policies regarding hiring procedures. Assistance will be provided to post openings, screening applicants, creating a position description and suitable compensation.
Parish Ministry Positions
Pastors and parish staff members aware of persons seeking to serve the church in a professionally prepared ministry are asked to direct the person to the Office of Faith Formation and Lay Ecclesial Ministry. An opportunity to explore a path to readiness for ministry will be provided, guidance on qualifications and discernment of gifts is readily available. Thank you very much for recognizing the potential and perceiving possible vocations to Lay Ecclesial Ministry.
National Community of Catechetical Leaders (NCCL)
NCCL is dedicated to promoting the ministries of evangelization and catechesis in the U.S. church by fostering a community of leaders who proclaim and teach the word of Jesus Christ through the witness of accompaniment, education, and formation in the Catholic faith. Regular opportunities to network with others, learn current trends in faith formation, participate in online and in person conferences are available through a no cost membership. Visit www.ncclcatholic.org to join!
Fall 2023 NCCL Convocation in Chicago -NEW
“Journey Toward the Future of Catechesis” October 17-18, 2023 at the Hilton Garden Inn O’Hare Airport, will be the dates for the regional NCCL Catholic Convocation. Target audience: Catechetical Leaders and other Faith Formation Directors. Visit ncclcatholic.org to register.
Vacation Bible Camp
Summer is an excellent season to provide ongoing faith formation in new, fun, and exciting ways! Parish households might participate in mission and service trips and opportunities – nearby, or within the community. Planned pilgrimages or family road trips, church visits within a particular area or vacation destinations may also be offered. More structured opportunities are also encouraged such as Vacation Bible Camp for children, Vacation Bible Camp for adults, summer book clubs for teens, young adults, all adults. Be creative! Summer affords many opportunities to reach out and evangelize the parish and beyond. Contact the Office of Faith Formation and Lay Ecclesial Ministry for easy-to-use resources.
10th Annual Nostra Aetate Lecture -NEW LINK
Please see this month’s attachment folder for a flyer from Villa Maria Education and Spirituality Center about two upcoming lectures by Michal Bar-Asher Siegal on Tuesday, August 1, 2023: https://vmesc.org/programs-retreats/all-events?id=898
Office of Pro-Life, Marriage, and Family Life (Bulletin Materials) -NEW
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Two Proposed Amendments to Ohio’s Constitution – Please Do Not Get Them Confused! (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
At the end of February the Catholic Bishops of Ohio jointly issued a letter in which they warn Catholics and all people of good will that “In Ohio, the dignity of life in its earliest stages is threatened by groups proposing an amendment to Ohio’s Constitution for the November 2023 ballot that would enshrine and expand abortion at the expense of protections for preborn children and women” and they encourage us to vote against this amendment.
In the meantime, another amendment to the Ohio Constitution is being proposed in a special election on August 8: Issue One, which would “require that any proposed amendment to the Constitution of the State of Ohio receive the approval of at least 60 percent of eligible voters voting on the proposed amendment.” Our Ohio Catholic Bishops have taken a neutral stance on Issue One on the August ballot since it does not have any direct moral content.
To summarize, while the Catholic Bishops of Ohio are encouraging us to vote NO on the abortion amendment on the November ballot (remember, “NO” in NOvember), they are not taking a position one way or another on Issue One on the upcoming August ballot.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
August Special Election (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
A special election will take place in Ohio on August 8, 2023 to vote on Issue 1, which asks voters if Ohio should “Require that any proposed amendment to the Constitution of the State of Ohio receive the approval of at least 60 percent of eligible voters voting on the proposed amendment.”
As our bishops remind us, “In the Catholic Tradition, responsible citizenship is a virtue, and participation in political life is a moral obligation” (Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship, No. 13). We urge you to register and vote in the upcoming election:
– July 10: Deadline to Register to Vote or Update Voter Information
– July 11 – August 6: Absentee and Early In-Person Voting
– Tuesday August 8th: ELECTION DAY
Please note: The bishops of Ohio do not have a position on Issue 1 in August, as it does not have direct moral content. The August election is different from the proposed November 2023 ballot initiative that would expand and enshrine abortion, which the Ohio bishops oppose. The Catholic Conference of Ohio is the official voice of the Catholic Church in Ohio on public policy, advocating for the dignity of life at all stages, immigrants, Ohioans in need, and Catholic education – www.ohiocathconf.org.
Our bishops are encouraging non-partisan voter registration drives in Ohio parishes and the Catholic Conference of Ohio has put together a 2023 Voter Registration Event Guide that outlines the USCCB guidelines for such events and highlights important dates and links for registration in Ohio, which may be found at https://www.ohiocathconf.org/voting.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Help Protect the Dignity of Life in Ohio (Bulletin Materials)
Life in its earliest and most vulnerable stages is threatened by groups proposing an amendment to the Ohio Constitution for the November 2023 ballot to expand and enshrine abortion at the expense of protections for preborn children and women. The Catechism of the Catholic Church proclaims that “human life must be respected and protected absolutely from the moment of conception.” The Church accompanies and supports women facing unexpected pregnancies and mothers through programs like Walking with Moms in Need and the services of Catholic Charities.
The bishops of Ohio strongly encourage Catholics statewide to unite in prayer and work to defeat this proposed amendment and its grave consequences for women and preborn children in Ohio. The following materials about the proposed amendment were sent to Ohio parishes by the Catholic Conference of Ohio:
– Protect Them Both Prayer Card: Unite with Catholics across Ohio in asking God to strengthen us as we defend and accompany mothers and preborn children
– Dignity of Life Threatened in Ohio Flyer: Learn more about the proposed amendment and what you can do now
These and other resources are available on the Catholic Conference of Ohio website at: www.ohiocathconf.org/protect or from the Diocese of Youngstown’s Office of Pro-Life, Marriage & Family Life at dschmidt@youngstowndiocese.org or 330-744-8451 extension 272. The Catholic Conference of Ohio is the official voice of the Catholic Church in Ohio on public policy.
NOTE: Bulletin editors may insert the location(s) that the above-mentioned prayer cards and flyers may be found at their respective parishes. In addition, the above-mentioned prayer card and flyer may be found in the attachments section of this Communique.
Regional Respect Life Meetings -NEW
Each August the Office of Pro-Life, Marriage and Family Life schedules regional meetings for members of parish respect life groups and individuals involved in any pro-life ministry. These meetings take place in anticipation of Respect Life Month in October and are especially important this year as our state faces a proposed amendment to the Ohio Constitution that would have grave consequences for women and preborn children. Participants are encouraged to attend one of the three regional meetings to take place from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. on: Thursday, August 10; Wednesday, August 16; and Monday, August 21. Locations for each meeting are yet to be determined. For more information contact dschmidt@youngstowndiocese.org or 330-744-8451 ext. 272.
Walking with Moms in Need & INTO LIFE
Last year Bishop Bonnar wrote to all pastors encouraging the implementation of Walking with Moms in Need in their parishes. This initiative from the USCCB is to help parishes come alongside and accompany pregnant and parenting mothers facing difficulties. Anyone interested in establishing Walking with Moms in Need in their parish or region may contact Dave Schmidt in the Office of Pro-Life, Marriage and Family Life at dschmidt@youngstowndiocese.org or 330-744-8451 ext. 272.
INTO LIFE – Love Changes Everything is a 12-part original series on accompanying a woman into life. The Sisters of Life and the University of Notre Dame’s McGrath Institute for Church Life teamed up to create an original 12-part video series based on the work of the Sisters serving women who are pregnant. Journey with the Sisters of Life as they explain what it means to walk with a woman who is pregnant and vulnerable. Learn what it means to deeply listen to and understand the heart of another, how to rejoice in the beauty of the individual person, and what it means to truly accompany someone into God’s life and freedom.
INTO LIFE can be instrumental in establishing Walking with Moms in Need at your parish or school. For more information go to https://intolifeseries.com/ or contact Dave Schmidt at 330-744-8451 ext. 272 or dschmidt@youngstowndiocese.org.
One Married Couple’s Witness to Natural Family Planning (NFP) (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
“As we lived the NFP lifestyle, we began to realize that all of our reasons for avoiding pregnancy were ‘earthly’ – we would need a new car, a bigger house, and more money for everything….We are so grateful that we now have the kind of marital union that God had planned for us! It has changed our lives so much that we became NFP teachers to spread the good news.” (Jennifer and Frank Ricard, “Signs of Grace,” available at: www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/marriage-and-family/natural-family-planning/what-is-nfp/couples-stories/upload/Jennifer-Ricard-Signs-of-Grace.pdf)
For local opportunities to learn Natural Family Planning in call 330-744-8451 ext. 272 or email dschmidt@youngstowndiocese.org.
—
Natural Family Planning (NFP) Awareness Week is July 23 to 29 and the 2023 theme is Marriage: One Flesh, Given and Received. Resources to explain and promote this important teaching of the Church may be found at https://www.usccb.org/topics/natural-family-planning/national-nfp-awareness-week, or contact dschmidt@youngstowndiocese.org or 330-744-8451 ext.272.
Marriage Preparation Engaged Couple Retreat Day -NEW DATES
The next diocesan-sponsored one-day marriage preparation retreat days for engaged couples will be held Saturdays, August 19 & October 28 in the social hall at St. Columba Cathedral. Reservations are required. Registration information may be found at www.doy.org/events or go to DOY.org at the “Ministries” drop-down menu and click on “Pro-Life, Marriage & Family Life.”
Direct link for registration: https://secure.acceptiva.com/?cst=4479d9
For more information on this, and other opportunities for marriage preparation formation, contact dschmidt@youngstowndiocese.org or 330-744-8451, ext.272.
Intercessions for Life and Pro-Life Bulletin Briefs
Recommended intercessions and bulletin briefs for December, 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
Project Rachel Outreach – July Message for Bulletin/Newsletter (Bulletin Materials) -NEW
Do you need freedom from the heartache of an abortion? God’s mercy offers release from the bonds of regret. There is Hope and Healing available. For CONFIDENTIAL help text or call Project Rachel of Northeast Ohio at 330-360-0430 or go to https://hopeafterabortionneo.weebly.com/.
Natural Family Planning Awareness Week 2023 – Marriage: One Flesh, Given and Received
This year’s Natural Family Planning (NFP) Awareness Week is July 23 to 29 with the theme Marriage: One Flesh, Given and Received. Resources to explain and promote this important teaching of the Church may be found at https://www.usccb.org/topics/natural-family-planning/national-nfp-awareness-week, or contact dschmidt@youngstowndiocese.org or 330-744-8451 ext.272.
Mark Your Calendars: Night for Life with Peter Range – September 17 at St. Charles
The Office of Pro-Life, Marriage and Family Life is partnering with Men & Women United for Life to provide a Night for Life on Sunday, September 17, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. at St. Charles Borromeo Parish, Boardman (7345 Westview Dr.). The featured speaker will be Peter Range, the CEO of Ohio Right to Life. More details to come. For more information contact 330-744-8451 ext. 272 or dschmidt@youngstowndiocese.org.
Mark Your Calendars: Ohio March for Life – October 6, at the Statehouse in Columbus
The second annual Ohio March for Life will take place on Friday, October 6, 2023 in Columbus beginning with an 11:00 a.m. Rally at the Statehouse before the March takes place at Noon. More details to come. For more information contact dschmidt@youngstowndiocese.org or 330-744-8451 ext.272.
Office of Worship
OCIA Workshop ~ Save the Date! August 21
“The Vision of the NEW Order of Christian Initiation of Adults”
~Monday – August 21, 2023 – Saint William Church, Champion
~Clergy / Pastoral Minister Session: 12:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. (Lunch included)
~Parish RCIA Team Member Session: 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
(Clergy / Pastoral Minister can attend either session)
~Featured Presenter: Mrs. Rita Thiron, Executive Director, Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions (FDLC).
Mark your calendars now…. Plan to attend!
More details coming soon!
46th National Association of Pastoral Musicians (NPM) Convention
The 46th National Association of Pastoral Musicians (NPM) Convention will be held in Reno, Nevada, July 10-14, 2023. This year’s theme is “Walking with the Saints.” A virtual experience of the convention will be available July 18-20, 2023. For more information: www.npm.org
National Gathering on Christian Initiation
The National Gathering on Christian Initiation sponsored by Liturgical Training Publications (LTP) will take place on August 1-3, 2023 at Loyola University Chicago Lakeshore Campus, located in the Rogers Park neighborhood. This conference “Beginning Anew – the Vision of the OCIA” is for parish leaders, initiation ministers, and regional or diocesan trainers, and will explore the theoretical and practical aspects of initiation ministry. Through interactive sessions, meetings, and prayer opportunities, participants will understand more deeply that the vision of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is the vision of the parish as a community of disciples. For more information: https://ngci.org/home/index
Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions (FDLC) National Meeting
The 2023 National Meeting of the Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions (FDLC) will be October 10-12, 2023 at the Netherland Hilton Hotel in downtown Cincinnati. This year’s national meeting is “Sign and Pledge of Communion: Masses with Children” and will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Directory for Masses with Children. A special Study Day on Wednesday, October 11, 2023 is open to all – clergy, catechists, teachers, principals, parish ministers – involved with the preparation and celebration of Mass with Children. Plenary sessions include:
~ “Unless You Become Like a Child: The Challenge and Promise of Liturgical Childhood for the Church” – by Dr. Timothy, O’Malley, McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame.
~ “Children as Natural Mystics: A Second Look at the Directory for Masses with Children” –by Dr. Donna Eschenauer, Professor of Theology, Saint Joseph Seminary, Dunwoody, New York.
~ “Liturgical Formation for and with Children” – by Sr. Sandra Demasi, SSJ, former Director, Office of Worship, Newark, New Jersey.
For more information: www.fdlc.org – Virtual Study Day version also available!
Displaying of Flags in Catholic Churches (from the USCCB website)
There are no specific regulations governing the display of flags in Roman Catholic Churches. Neither the Code of Canon Law, nor liturgical books of the Roman rite comment on this practice. As a result, the question of whether and how to display the American flag in church is left to the judgment of the diocesan bishop, who in turn often delegates this to the discretion of the pastor. The Bishop’s Committee on Divine Worship encourages that the American flag not be placed within the sanctuary itself, in order to reserve that space for the altar, ambo, presidential chair and tabernacle. Instead, the suggestion is made that the American flag be placed outside the sanctuary, or in the vestibule along with a book of prayer requests.
Low Gluten Hosts -REMINDER
It is important for pastors to make every effort to accommodate and normalize the experience of Holy Communion for the faithful, including those suffering from celiac disease. Canon 912 states, “any baptized person not prohibited by law can and must be admitted to Holy Communion.” In the United States there are four approved distributors of low-gluten hosts known to the USCCB – Secretariat of Divine Worship:
- Benedictine Sisters of Perpetual Adoration www.BenedictineSisters.org
- Parish Crossroads www.ParishCrossroads.com
- GlutenFreeHosts.com Inc. www.GlutenFreeHosts.com
- Cavanagh Company www.CavanaghCo.com
Liturgical Directory
The Liturgical Directory contains valuable information about Liturgy Committees; liturgical minister formation guidelines; guidelines for the celebration of sacraments; music in liturgical celebrations; and art and architecture directives.
The directory can be accessed and downloaded by clicking the button below or visiting the DOY Office of Worship page: https://doy.org/ministries/worship/
Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry (Bulletin Materials) -NEW
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
World Youth Day Summer Festival (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
The Diocese of Youngstown is organizing a World Youth Day Summer Festival! Young adults ages 18-39 at invited to participate from August 4th at 6pm to August 5th at 8pm, hosted at St. Robert Bellarmine Parish, 4689 Niles-Cortland Rd., Cortland, OH 44410.
Details and registration at https://bit.ly/3CxpgXe
Cost: $20 in advance (online) at https://secure.acceptiva.com/?cst=woiqcZ or $30 at the door. Register by July 19th to receive a T-shirt!
Questions? Please contact Seminarian Arthur Bodenschatz at abodenschatz@youngstowndiocese.org.
Spirits & Spirituality
All young adults in their 20s and 30s are invited to join St. Michael the Archangel Parish for their next Spirits and Spirituality gathering. For details, see their Facebook page at facebook.com/spiritsandspirituality or email spiritsandspirituality@gmail.com.
Confirmation Retreat & Diocesan Events
Fr. Ryan Furlong and Fr. Chad Johnson are teaming up to create a diocesan confirmation retreat. Please contact them if interested at rfurlong@youngstowndiocese.org or cjohnson@youngstowndiocese.org
Fr. Ryan is working with a diocesan planning council to plan and coordinate diocesan events. Please contact him for more information or ways you can help at rfurlong@youngstowndiocese.org
NCYC
Anyone interested in attending this year’s NCYC please contact Cara Lipinski at clipinski@youngstowndiocese.org or Deacon Randy Smith at rsmith@youngstowndiocese.org.
Office of Catholic Schools -NEW
CONGRATULATIONS to Lori Crofford on Retirement: May 5 -NEW
Lori Crofford will officially retire from the DOY Office of Catholic Schools on May 5, 2023 after 31 years working in education! You can send your well wishes to lcrofford@youngstowndiocese.org or to the Office of Catholic Schools, Diocese of Youngstown, 144 W. Wood St., Youngstown OH 44503.
Lori worked for the Diocese’s Office of Catholic Schools as the Director of Technology and Professional Development for 9 years (2012-2021) and the Associate Superintendent from 2021-2022. From July 2022-May 2023, she worked as a consultant training the two new employees (Christa Capper and Jennifer Fischer) that will take over her job managing the technology program for the schools and the DOY office, plus the curriculum and professional development for teachers and the responsibility of managing teachers’ and administrators’ license renewal among other organizational tasks. Lori has been instrumental in creating the curriculum documents for the diocesan K-8 schools. Prior to her time with the Diocese, Lori was a teacher and math coach for the Youngstown City Schools and a teacher for the Mahoning County Montessori School. Thank you for your career in education, and service to our Catholic community!
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) -NEW
Please share these bulletin announcements as applicable to your location. Flyers are included in this month’s attachment folder: https://bit.ly/july2023comm
BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Chaplet of Divine Mercy at 3pm on Fridays**
Please share these bulletin announcements as applicable to your location.
Flyer is included in this month’s attachment folder: https://bit.ly/july2023comm
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.
BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Rosary at Calvary Cemetery (Youngstown), All Souls Cemetery (Cortland), and Calvary Cemetery (Massillon)**
Please share these bulletin announcements as applicable to your location.
Flyers are included in this month’s attachment folder: https://bit.ly/july2023comm
Event: https://catholicecho.org/events/rosary-at-cemeteries/
Join us as we pray the Rosary at Calvary Cemetery in Youngstown on the first Wednesday of the month at 10:00 in the Chapel. We will be led by the Oblate Sisters of the Sacred Heart. All are welcome.
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.
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.
Other Events
FAQ: Where do I send my announcements?
The Catholic Echo will continue the tradition of sharing Catholic events around the diocese at https://catholicecho.org/upcoming-events/ which will replace the “Parish/Other Events” section in the Communiqué.
You are invited to submit events and announcements for The Catholic Echo to catholicecho@youngstowndiocese.org. Please see our Event Submission Checklist in this month’s attachment folder: https://bit.ly/july2023comm
Are you planning a parish music event? Please contact/copy Diocesan Director of Music Ralph Holtzhauser at rholtzhauser@youngstowndiocese.org.
Shared Publicity Folder -NEW
In addition to The Catholic Echo online calendar, members of our DOY Internal Communications Professionals group suggested creating a Shared Publicity folder for bulletin announcements, flyers, and images. 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, and others can request access on a case-by-case basis.
Questions? Contact Meagen Farrell at mfarrell@youngstowndiocese.org or 330.744.8451 x275.
