Communique | July 2024

On Pilgrimage Together

This July, we pray with the pilgrims who will represent the Diocese of Youngstown at the National Eucharistic Congress. May all of us, traveling or at home, experience the power of God’s presence everywhere we go.

Welcome to the Digital Communique!

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 Manager, at communications@youngstowndiocese.org or (330) 744-8451 x275.

The printable format publication is sent by email as a Word file. Attachments are now provided as downloadable files in one folder (including the printable version):

Announcements suitable or adaptable for parish bulletins are noted. Where applicable, links to 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.

Quote of the Month

Travis Seagraves laughing with vestments on, surrounded by servers, deacons and bishop in vestments. Quote: "God made us for joy. God is joy, and the joy of living reflects the original joy that God felt in creating us." Saint Pope Johne Paul II

“God made us for joy. God is joy, and the joy of living reflects the original joy that God felt in creating us.” -Saint Pope John Paul II

Photo: Travis Seagraves’ Ordination to the Transitional Diaconate, May 25, 2024 by Brian Keith.

For more Catholic inspiration, connect with the Diocese of Youngstown and The Catholic Echo on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.

Chancery

Click the name of the office to read the announcement titles, and click the headlines for more information. Links to download the parish bulletin/publicity materials are listed below.

OFFICE OF SAFE ENVIRONMENT
BISHOP'S OFFICE
  • Official Decree | February 4, 2025 The Most Rev. David J. Bonnar has designated four Sacred Jubilee Sites for pious pilgrimage or visit in 2025: the Cathedral of St. Columba (Youngstown), Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Basilica (Youngstown), Basilica of St. John the Baptist (Canton) and Poor Clare Nuns of Perpetual Adoration (Canton).
  • Catholic Men’s Conference (Bulletin Materials) Bulletin materials available for upcoming Catholic Men’s Conference including Mass with Bishop Bonnar.
  • Upcoming Events with Bishop Bonnar (Bulletin Materials) Bulletin materials available for upcoming events with Bishop Bonnar.
  • Upcoming Hispanic Ministry Events Fe y Vida Training, 2025 Dates: January 18, March 1, and May 17 from 9:00 to 6:00 PM; Third Hispanic Summit with Bishop Bonnar on March 22, 2025. All at Immaculate Conception Social Hall in Ravenna.
CHANCELLOR'S OFFICE
ARCHIVES OFFICE
DISCIPLE MAKER INDEX
HISPANIC MINISTRY
  • Upcoming Hispanic Ministry Events Fe y Vida Training, 2025 Dates: January 18, March 1, and May 17 from 9:00 to 6:00 PM; Third Hispanic Summit with Bishop Bonnar on March 22, 2025. All at Immaculate Conception Social Hall in Ravenna.
ECUMENICAL & INTERRELIGIOUS AFFAIRS
No announcements from this office right now

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

“Have You Seen My Brother?” New Book About Fr. Popovich (Bulletin Materials)**

“Have You Seen My Brother?: Discovering That God Is Good Even in a Tragedy” is a collection of short stories written by author Margie Cretella about her brother, the late Rev. Steven Popovich. Cretella details her brother’s 40+ years of devotion to the Church, including after a tragic car crash in 2013. Father Steven Popovich passed away on January 14, 2024 at the age of 69.

His memory, generosity and devotion remain alive through stories told by those who loved and knew him well. You can see a video interview with Cretella and other family and friends at CatholicEcho.org (visit https://shorturl.at/TkJXV) or on our Diocesan Facebook and YouTube pages. The book was published by Christian Faith Publishing and can be purchased locally at St. Pauls Books & Gifts in Canfield, Barnes and Noble, or online at Amazon.com or Apple Books.

PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY

Statewide Eucharistic Pilgrimage to Carey, OH, August 14 (Bulletin Materials)**

In this month’s attachment folder, find bulletin/newsletter materials, flyer, poster, social media images and instructions to promote this upcoming Eucharistic Pilgrimage to Carey, Ohio.

PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY

For full list of bulletin announcements, please download the Text Only Attachments

Image and PDF files are available in the monthly Google Drive attachments folder: bit.ly/july2024comm

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.

MARRIAGE & FAMILY 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.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES, DIOCESE OF YOUNGSTOWN
CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF ASHTABULA COUNTY
CATHOLIC CHARITIES REGIONAL AGENCY
CATHOLIC CHARITIES SERVING PORTAGE AND STARK COUNTIES
OFFICE OF PEACE AND JUSTICE

PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY

For full list of bulletin announcements, please download the Text Only Attachments

Image and PDF files are available in the monthly Google Drive attachments folder: bit.ly/july2024comm

PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY

ODJFS Seeks Foster Families (Bulletin Materials)**

If you or someone you know might be interested in taking on the challenges and rewards of becoming a foster or adoptive parent, please use this link to learn more.

PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY

CCRA: SAVE THE DATE! Women Fore Women: July 15, 2024 (Bulletin Materials)**

Catholic Charities Regional Agency is once again hosting the annual Golf Classic called Women Fore Women on Monday, July 15th, 2024 at the Links at Firestone in Columbiana. 

Proceeds from this all-Women’s Golf Classic will benefit the Voice of Hope Shelters for Women and Children operated by Catholic Charities Regional Agency.

We are now seeking sponsors. Contact Nancy at nvoitus@ccregional.org or 330.744.3320 ext. 219.

PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY

URGENT PLEA – Volunteers Needed (Bulletin Materials)**

Catholic Charities Serving Portage and Stark Counties is looking for volunteers to help with the increased demand for pantry services in both the Canton location and the Ravenna location. Pantry volunteers will typically work a 2-3 hour shift and can choose to work weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, depending on their personal availability. Clients will schedule pantry visits in advance, and pantry volunteers will prepare the grocery bags based on client selections. Compare this to the “Giant Eagle Shoppers” that prepare groceries for pick-up customers. However, this is much easier! In addition, volunteers may be asked to assist with other routine tasks such as dating incoming goods, rotating products, and general organization.

Come and lend a hand!  Help others by directly fulfilling just one of the many ways we assist clients in need.

Call the Canton office at 330-491-0896

Call the Ravenna office at 330-297-7745 or

Send an email to charities@youngstowndiocese.org and we will forward your information to the proper location!

PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY

Office of Peace & Justice:Catholic Conference of Ohio News Updates (Bulletin Materials)**

Stay Informed on Ohio Legislation from the Catholic Conference of Ohio (CCO)
The Conference works on behalf of the Ohio bishops as an official voice of the Catholic Church in Ohio, primarily in public policy matters. At the end of each month, they send a newsletter summarizing key legislation, action alerts, and relevant information that empowers Catholics across the state to uphold the Church’s beliefs and values. Sign up to receive important updates on legislation and help inform your parishioners to engage as Faithful Citizens.

PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY

Office of Peace & Justice: 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. 

Click the name of the office to read the full text of the announcements.

OFFICE OF YOUTH & YOUNG ADULT MINISTRY
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
ARISE: Registration is now OPEN! (Bulletin Materials)**

Join young adults throughout the diocese for the 2nd-annual young adult summer festival on Friday, July 26 through Saturday, July 27, 2024! Taken from last year’s theme, based on World Youth Day’s theme – “Mary AROSE and went in haste” – the ARISE Young Adult Summer Festival tradition has begun!  This event includes inspiring talks and speakers, discussion and community-building with other young adults, Mass, Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, food and fellowship, and s’mores next to a bonfire under the stars. Confession will be available during Adoration both nights – come experience God’s STEADFAST LOVE for you! All young adults across the diocese are welcome to join together at St. Robert in Cortland to celebrate their faith during this special weekend!

The Office of Youth & Young Adult Ministry is now on social media! Please give it a like and follow!

Click the name of the office to read the full text of the announcements.

THE CATHOLIC ECHO
  • New in 2025: Parish Profiles & Patron Saints of the Diocese Parishes, look for an email soon requesting information for your PARISH PROFILE to be published at DOY.org and in a special edition of The Catholic Echo Magazine. Listen to The Catholic Echo podcast or follow social media for Bishop Bonnar’s new series, Patron Saints of the Diocese.
  • 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.
  • The Catholic Echo Magazine Advertising Deadlines Stay connected with The Catholic Echo magazine’s advertising schedule to ensure your ad reaches our vibrant Catholic community across the Diocese of Youngstown. Discounts are available for multiple insertions and Catholic organizations.
MULTIMEDIA
SOCIAL MEDIA
INTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS

PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY

For full list of bulletin announcements, please download the Text Only Attachments

Image and PDF files are available in the monthly Google Drive attachments folder: bit.ly/july2024comm

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.

BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Mass Finder Now Online – Diocesan Directory Updates -NEW

We have launched a Mass Finder on doy.org to help folks show up for Mass at the right place & time, especially during these transitions. If you change your Mass times, please notify us whenever you update your bulletin! You can notify us of changes at any time by using this form: https://forms.gle/GFX45J5cZt9CuRoQA

Thank you for helping facilitate worship of Lord Jesus, worthy of all praise. If you have any questions, please contact Meagen Farrell, Communications Manager at communications@youngstowndiocese.org or 330-744-8451 x275.

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.

OFFICE OF CLERGY SERVICES
OFFICE OF CHURCH VOCATIONS

PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY

Vocations Intercessions and Bulletin Blurbs  (Bulletin Materials)**
Second Annual Bishop’s Golf Classic

The Second Annual Bishop’s Golf Classic, benefiting Seminarian Formation and other needs is scheduled for Tuesday, August 6, 2024 at The Youngstown Country Club. Register or sponsor today at doy.org/golf.

Watch our social media for more updates.

Vocations Social Media

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.

ANNUAL DIOCESAN APPEAL
  • News About the Appeal Fr. John-Michael Lavelle has been emailing updates on individual parishes’ performance on the Appeal. This information is also posted at doy.org/appeal under “Parish Toolkit and Updates.”
OFFICE OF DEVELOPMENT AND STEWARDSHIP
Annual Diocesan Appeal Updates

Fr. John-Michael Lavelle has been emailing updates on individual parishes’ performance on the Appeal. This information is also posted at www.doy.org/appeal under “Parish Toolkit and Updates.” 

PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Pontifical Mission Societies Podcast: Frontiers of Faith (Bulletin Materials)

Looking for a podcast that explores the important work of the Pontifical Mission Societies? Look no further than the show hosted by Katie Ruvalcaba and Msgr. Kieran Harrington! This dynamic duo delves into the inspiring stories of those who have dedicated their lives to mission work, sharing perspectives that are both insightful and thought-provoking. From discussions on the role of faith in global development to interviews with missionaries in the field, this podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of faith, service, and social justice. Listen at https://www.buzzsprout.com/2187895

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.

PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Coming Soon: Visiting Missionaries (Bulletin Materials) 

Please feel free to add details of dates and names specific to your location.

The Propagation of the Faith and Missions Office is pleased to announce that missionaries from around the world are sending a missionary to each one of our parishes during the months of June, July or August this summer.

20 different missionary groups, from Dominicans to Franciscans and many others, visiting from Capetown in South Africa to Patagonia in South America and even the Middle East – will share with our local parishioners the joys and challenges of evangelizing in lands where the name of Jesus Christ is not yet known, or if it is known it is often suppressed by rebels, unfriendly government or by hostile mobs. These hazards, coupled with poverty, disease and illiteracy make the grass roots evangelization an urgent need.  

Each of our parish pastors schedules and welcomes a visiting priest, deacon, sister or layperson to their parish. Please watch your parish weekly bulletin for the Good News of the missionary coming soon to your parish. We always enjoy their presentations, prayers and opportunities to share in their mission. Please remember that when it comes to missions, Some give by going, others go by giving! Please be generous.

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.

OFFICE OF FAITH FORMATION AND LAY ECCLESIAL MINISTRY
IN THE DIOCESAN LIBRARY
  • PARISH RESOURCES FOR JUBILEE 2025: YEAR OF HOPE | DIOCESAN LIBRARY Books to help to help parishes prepare for the Jubilee 2025 may be borrowed from the Diocesan Library. Due to construction, please call before your visit to confirm that the resources you need are available: 330-744-8451 x296.
  • LIBRARY UNDERGOING RENOVATIONS Books to help you grow in your prayer life may be borrowed from the Diocesan Library. Due to construction, please call before your visit to confirm that the resources you need are available: 330-744-8451 x296.
OFFICE OF PRO-LIFE, MARRIAGE AND FAMILY LIFE
  • Mass for Life & March for Life Bishop Bonnar will preside at a Mass for Life on Sunday, January 19, 2025 at 4:00 pm at St. Columba Cathedral, Youngstown (154 W. Wood St.). All are welcome – no reservations needed.
OFFICE OF WORSHIP
WORSHIP: MUSIC
OFFICE OF CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY

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.

DIOCESAN CEMETERIES

PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY

Chaplet of Divine Mercy, Fridays at 3pm (Bulletin Materials)
Rosary at Four Diocesan Cemeteries (Bulletin Materials)

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 Editor-in-Chief Katie Wagner at kwagner@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.

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