Season of Celebration
From May into June, we celebrate graduations, ordinations, first communions, and more! Let us continue to follow the promptings of the Holy Spirit within us, and have peace with one another.
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):
- June Communique Attachments Folder (contains printable version, text-only version, images & flyers): https://bit.ly/june2024comm
- Video: How to Save Communique Attachments https://youtu.be/IAs-FGa6hrQ
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.
- June 2024 Shared Publicity Folder https://bit.ly/june2024sharedoy
- July 2024 Shared Publicity Folder https://bit.ly/july2024sharedoy
- August 2024 Shared Publicity Folder https://bit.ly/aug2024sharedoy
Quote of the Month
“Everyone will be salted with fire. … Keep salt in yourselves and you will have peace with one another.” -Mark 9:49-50
Photo: Golden Apple Award Ceremony, May 1, 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.
- Safe Environment Materiales de Boletín (in Spanish) – 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 Bulletin Announcements (in English) – The attached bulletin announcement regarding education, screening, reporting, and victim assistance, should be included bi-monthly (every two months) in all parish bulletins.
- DOY County Celebrations for the Jubilee of Hope-Rescheduled (Bulletin Materials) – The celebrations take place across all six counties. The last event will be: Mahoning County on December 28, 2025, 10:30 am Mass at St. Columba Cathedral (Youngstown).
- Upcoming Events with Bishop Bonnar (Bulletin Materials) – Bulletin materials available for upcoming events with Bishop Bonnar.
- Church Overseas Combined Collection (Bulletin Materials) – The Church Overseas Combined Collection will be held the weekend of January 24/25, 2026. Parishes can use these bulletin announcements.
- Week of Prayer for Christian Unity (Bulletin Materials) – The theme for the 2026 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, January 18-25, 2026, is “There is one body, and one spirit, just as you are called to the one hope of your calling.” (Ephesians 4:4).
- Upcoming Hispanic Ministry Events – 12/20/25: Diocesan Posada at St Barbara Church, Divine Mercy Parish (Massillon); Jan 9-11, 2026: Fe y Vida: Padre Felices, Hijos Felices, Hogares Felices
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)** -NEW
“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
CHURCH AT HOME COMBINED COLLECTION (Bulletin Materials)**
This Collection will be held the weekend of June 1/2, 2024. This important collection supports the Catholic Campaign for Human Development, USCCB Catholic Communications Campaign, and The Catholic University of America/Newman Apostolate. Short link for online giving: www.doy.org/giving
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.
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.
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.
- Season Of Giving (Bulletin Materials) – There are a variety of ways to engage with us during this 60-day campaign such as giving online through our website (ccdoy.org), gifts by mail, or by attending an in-person event.
- 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.
- Catholic Relief Services – Rice Bowl: Order Free 2026 Materials Now – CRS Rice Bowl—Catholic Relief Services’ Lenten faith-in-action program—invites us to reflect on how caring for our neighbor is caring for Christ.
- Mass for Life – January 18, 2026 (Bulletin Materials) – Bishop Bonnar will preside at a Mass for Life on Sunday, January 18, 2026 at 10:30 am at St. Columba Cathedral, Youngstown (154 W. Wood St.). All are welcome – no reservations needed.
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
First Step for Change (Bulletin Materials)**
Catholic Charities will hold its annual First Step for Change campaign from Mother’s Day through Father’s Day, honoring the faith, humility and love it takes to raise a child, and recognizing that many parents lack adequate financial resources for their children.
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: Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship (Bulletin Materials)**
The Catholic bishops of the United States are pleased to offer once again to the Catholic faithful Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship (en Español), our teaching document on the political responsibility of Catholics.
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.
- SEEK26 – SEEK26 participant waivers are DUE Friday, December 19th. All communications with the Diocesan delegation will be sent via email or GroupMe.
- Save-the-Dates: Youth, Young Adult, and Campus Ministry Events in 2025-2026 – Save these dates, and check in periodically for an updated list of events!
- Theology on Tap – Theology on Tap is an invitation to young adults (18-39) to delve deeper in their faith and in community with other members of the Church.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Eucharistic Pilgrimage to Pittsburgh (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
On Friday, June 14th, young adults will be traveling from Blessed Sacrament in Warren to parishes in Pittsburgh, engaging as a pilgrim in the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage. See flyer and contact Sister Debra Marie at dmarie@warrencatholic.org if you are interested in joining or for further details!
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.
- Diocesan Collection for The Catholic Echo – January 10 & 11, 2026 (Bulletin Materials) – The offerings made via the “Catholic Echo” envelope in January are to remain in the parish to assist the parish in meeting the prescribed subsidy for providing the Echo to parishioners.
- The Catholic Echo Podcast Topics: December 2025 & January 2026 – Join us for a weekly discussion of your burning spiritual questions. For more information about the Catholic Echo Podcast topics, visit catholicecho.org/podcast.
- Wineskins Schedule: December 2025 & January 2026 – “Wineskins” features reflections on the lives of the saints and the sacred scriptures, along with thoughts on a variety of topics and issues from a Catholic perspective.
- Spectrum News 1 closings announcement system now available to churches – Spectrum News 1 has opened their closings and delays system to churches in the state of Ohio. Register on their website or contact Aaron Hepker at aaron.hepker@charter.com or 614-307-2703.
- Parish Directory Updates – Please note recent changes to merged parish web addresses, offices, and other directory updates.
- Resources to Support Your Parish Transitions – Here are some resources & reminders to support your parish transitions: Bookmark online Diocesan Directory; Update your parish website; Send us any changes for job postings, Mass time updates, and personal directory listings.
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.
- SAVE THE DATES! Priest Events in 2026 – Ongoing Education & Formation: In-person formation about AI – January 26. Appeal Kick Off Luncheon on January 27 at St Michael (Canfield).
- Called by Name – Called by Name is a prayerful vocation initiative that invites parishioners to name individuals they recognize as living lives of faith, generosity, and leadership. The Called by Name weekend will take place on Saturday, January 24 and Sunday, January 25, 2026. For more information contact Fr. William Wainio in the Office of Church Vocations, wwainio@youngstowndiocese.org.
- Praise and Worship Nights for Vocations – Join us as we pray for an increase in vocations. For more information contact Fr. William Wainio in the Office of Church Vocations, wwainio@youngstowndiocese.org.
- Parish Vocation Ministry & Called By Name Initiative – The Office of Church Vocations is sponsoring “Called By Name” on the weekend of January 24 & 25, 2026 and has provided materials for parishes to publicize this initiative. Contact the Office of Vocations at vocations@youngstowndiocese.org.
- 2026 Vocations Bulletin Blurbs – Cycle A (Bulletin Materials) – Please use these weekly reflections to help promote vocations to the priesthood and religious life in your parish community and school.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Vocations Intercessions and Bulletin Blurbs (Bulletin Materials)**
Save-the-Date: 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
- Website: www.doy.org/vocations/
- Facebook: doyvocations
- Instagram: doyvocations
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.
- News About the Appeal: CONGRATULATIONS! 100% – 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.”
- Dec 2025-Mar 2026 Stewardship Bulletin Thoughts (Bulletin Materials | Materiales de Boletín) – It is recommended that every week, in every parish, a stewardship reflection should be included in the weekly bulletin.
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.” As of May 23, 2024, we have pledges totaling $3,525,085 (88%) from 11,017 households. This is fantastic news! Thank you to everyone who continues to promote the Appeal in your parish.
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.
- For Parish Ministers: In-Service on February 10 regarding Mental Health – In-Service Day for Parish Ministers regarding Mental Health will take place in Niles on February 10, 2026.
- Let us Pray for Lay Ecclesial Ministry and for Persons With Disabilities — updated prayers, Bulletin Materials – Parishes are encouraged to utilize these to add to Universal Prayers this weekend, and prayer groups are encouraged to pray for persons facing challenges, as well as for increased vocations to lay ministry.
- Lifelong Learning: NEW Courses For Adults in 2026 – All adult faith formation courses are open to anyone wanting to grow in their faith. The courses are offered online and in-person.
- Library in the Diocesan Office of Faith Formation and Lay Ecclesial Ministry, plus Catechist Cafe’ website (Bulletin Materials)- Updated – Our diocesan library is open to everyone. We have resources for personal reflection, small group study, families, as well as age-level faith formation. Visit any time between 8AM – 4PM, Monday – Friday at 225 Elm Street, Youngstown. We also share resource ideas and links online on our Catechist Cafe’ website.
- Library in the Diocesan Office of Faith Formation and Lay Ecclesial Ministry – (Bulletin Materials) – Our diocesan library is open to everyone. We have resources for small group study, families, as well as age-level faith formation. Visit any time between 8AM – 4PM, Monday – Friday.
- 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.
- Mass for Life – January 18, 2026 (Bulletin Materials) – Bishop Bonnar will preside at a Mass for Life on Sunday, January 18, 2026 at 10:30 am at St. Columba Cathedral, Youngstown (154 W. Wood St.). All are welcome – no reservations needed.
- Cathedral Organ Concert Series – 2026 Dates (Bulletin Materials) – We are glad to feature some incredible artistry from around the diocese and beyond who will be participating in the organ concert series for the Cathedral of Saint Columba in Youngstown, Ohio.
- Upcoming Parish Music Events (Bulletin Materials) – Join us for live music events at: Dates have been announced for the 2026 Cathedral Concert Series.
- Cathedral Organ Concert Series – 2026 Dates (Bulletin Materials) – We are glad to feature some incredible artistry from around the diocese and beyond who will be participating in the organ concert series for the Cathedral of Saint Columba in Youngstown, Ohio.
- Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO) Marketing Toolkit (Bulletin Materials) – Ohio taxpayers can reduce their 2025 state tax return through a donation to the Good Samaritan Scholarship up to $750 per individual or $1500 married filing jointly. DOY maintains this Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO) and distributes it to families based on financial need. Leading up to Catholic Schools Week, parishes & schools are encouraged to use the SGO Marketing toolkit to promote their local Catholic schools.
BULLETIN/PUBLICITY
Office of Pro-Life, Marriage & Family Ministry (Bulletin Materials)**
Project Rachel Lenten June/Father’s Day Message for Bulletin/Newsletter
If you are a father suffering from an abortion decision, know that 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/.
BULLETIN/PUBLICITY
Office of Faith Formation and Lay Ecclesial Ministry (Bulletin Materials)**
June Bulletin Announcements:
-Free Books at Diocesan Library
-New Adult Learning Opportunities
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Office of Worship - Music Events (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
Organ Concert Series-Monthly Concerts at The Cathedral of St. Columba
The Cathedral of St. Columba is pleased to announce an organ concert series, featuring performers for the first half of 2024. Attached is a poster with all of the dates and times. Sean Baran will close out this season with a recital on June 28th at 7:30pm. A free will offering directly goes toward the Cathedral and Diocesan Music program. Please give generously.
See flier for additional dates:
Night of Praise & Worship-June 7th at 7:00pm: St. Thomas the Apostle Parish
Come join the parish for a night of adoration with praise and worship, confession, preaching by Fr. Chad Johnson, and a social in the hall. All ages are welcome.
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.
- Rosary at the Cemetery Chapel on the 1st Wednesday at 10am (Bulletin Materials) – Pray the Rosary on the first Wednesday of the month at 10:00am in the Chapel of any of our four Diocesan Cemeteries.
- Chaplet of Divine Mercy (Bulletin Materials) – Catholic Funeral and Cemetery Services offers the Chaplet of Divine Mercy Prayer Service in the chapels of our four Cemeteries at 3:00p.m. every Friday at alternating locations.
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.
- June 2024 Shared Publicity Folder https://bit.ly/june2024sharedoy
- July 2024 Shared Publicity Folder https://bit.ly/july2024sharedoy
- August 2024 Shared Publicity Folder https://bit.ly/aug2024sharedoy
