Communique | March 2024

Eucharistic Adoration: monstrance on an altar with lit candles, purple cloths for Lent, and a crucifix behind
Joining Jesus in the Desert

Events in March support your Lenten practices of fasting, prayer, and almsgiving.

The Digital Communique is Under Construction!

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

“This is the time of fulfillment. The kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel.” -Mark 1:15

Above: Adoration after Ash Wednesday service at Holy Trinity Parish (East Liverpool) on February 14, 2024 | Photo by Jimmy Joe Savage

“Lenten Suggestions” from diocesan social media by Michael Houy

For more Catholic inspiration, connect with the Diocese of Youngstown and The Catholic Echo on Facebook, Instagram, 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
ARCHIVES OFFICE

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

Bishop’s Office–Catholic Men’s Fellowship (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW

EVENT: Rise Up, O Men of the Eucharist

DATE: March 2, 2024

LOCATION: St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Louisville, OH.  2121 Reno Drive., Louisville, OH 44641

TIME: Registration begins at 8 AM, 1/2 Day event ending with Mass with Bishop David Bonnar

FEATURED SPEAKERS: Bishop David Bonnar, Monsignor Zuraw, Music by Ben Walther.

Registration for the conference is $10 and can be completed via our website:

PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY

Bishop’s Office–Presidential Thought Leadership Series: Diplomacy in the Church and Why it Matters (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW

Join Walsh University for a fireside chat featuring Archbishop Gabriele Caccia and Bishop David Bonnar on Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at the Barrette Business and Community Center from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. They will discuss the Catholic Church’s significant role in international diplomacy throughout history and its impact on global affairs. Register now for the free Presidential Thought Leadership Series: Diplomacy in the Church and Why it Matters.

PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY

GOOD FRIDAY COLLECTION FOR THE HOLY LAND (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW

The Good Friday Collection will be held March 29, 2024.  This Pontifical Collection supports Christians in the Holy Land.  Please see the suggested bulletin and pulpit announcements.

PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY

Disciple Maker Index (Bulletin Materials)**

During Lent, Catholics will have an opportunity to reflect on their spiritual life using a survey called the Disciple Maker Index (DMI). The survey provides data for pastors, parish councils, and lay ecclesial ministers to help parishioners grow in their faith. The Catholic Leadership Institute will provide survey results during the Easter season, followed by training for parish leaders. The Diocese of Youngstown is one of only 15 dioceses across the country chosen to participate in this multi-year process of reflection and growth. 

The following website contains templates for parishes to promote your parish’s DMI survey.

PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY

March of the Eucharist – Lenten Adoration Schedule Now Available (Bulletin Materials)**

Please check if your parish is listed in the March of the Eucharist calendar! Make sure to let your parishioners know with a note in the bulletin and/or a pulpit announcement.

In addition to receiving the Eucharist at Mass, we also need to enter into a greater spirit of prayer, bringing ourselves before the Blessed Sacrament—not only voicing our prayer, but listening for God’s voice in prayerful silence. As part of the three-year Eucharistic Revival, the diocese has compiled a “March of the Eucharist” Adoration schedule for the Lenten season, to assist the faithful in hearing God’s voice. This schedule is available in the February issue of The Catholic Echo Magazine or online at https://doy.org/eucharistic-adoration/ May we all enter this Lenten journey more focused on the true presence of Christ in our lives.

PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY

National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis Starts July 17, 2024 (Bulletin Materials)**

The NEC flyer provides a QR code where participants can register now. We recommend you provide this flyer in your weekly bulletins throughout the year and print some flyers to post in your parish halls and entrances.

PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY

Second Annual Hispanic Ministry Summit (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW

Bishop David J. Bonnar is happy to announce that the second Diocesan Hispanic Summit will be on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at Saint Michael Parish in Canfield (300 North Broad Street, Canfield, Ohio 44406) starting with Mass at 10am.

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.

TRIBUNAL
  • Tribunal In-Service Available The Tribunal staff has made available an ongoing in-service for small groups of between 8-12 participants and generally runs approximately two hours. Interested parties should call the Tribunal at (330) 744-8451, ext. 252.

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 REGIONAL AGENCY
OFFICE OF PEACE AND JUSTICE

PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY

CCDOY: Shamrocks for Socks (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW

Last year Catholic Charities began a new project based on a critical need in our community. Socks are currently one of the most requested items among the homeless population and those living in poverty. To learn more about this project, or to make a donation, please visit our website www.ccdoy.org! For questions, please contact Jennifer Lucarelli at 330-744-8451 or jlucarelli@youngstowndiocese.org.

Direct link to Shamrocks for Socks page to use in your parish email, social media or website: https://www.ccdoy.org/2023/02/17/shamrocks-for-socks/

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

Office of Peace & Justice: Town Hall Discussion on Immigration (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW

The Peace and Justice Committee is hosting a Town Hall Meeting on the topic of Immigration on April 16th, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. at St. Dominic Parish Center (Youngstown).

Event is free and open to the public.  Registration is recommended. Contact: R.J. Mangan, CRS Diocesan Director at 330-744-8451, or rmangan@youngstowndiocese.org

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

OFFICE OF YOUTH & YOUNG ADULT MINISTRY
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Steve Angrisano Comes to Canton! (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW

March 17-18 | St. Michael, Canton

Steve Angrisano – nationally recognized musician and keynote speaker will be in our diocese for a Lenten mission this spring!!! Please mark your calendars and support your fellow parish! This event is FREE, and free will offerings will be accepted. Please see attached flyer or contact Roberta Muoio at roberta@stmichaelcanton.org for more information!

BULLETIN/PUBLICITY

Office of Youth & Young Adult Accompaniment (Bulletin Materials)**

New logos attached for Eagle of the Cross, Diocesan Confirmation Retreat, and “ARISE” Youth Summer Festival.

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
MULTIMEDIA
SOCIAL MEDIA
INTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS

PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY

The Catholic Echo  (Bulletin Materials)**

Catholic Echo logos are included on the DOY Brand page: doy.org/brand

BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Shared Publicity Folders -UPDATED LINKS

Catholic parishes, schools, and lay organizations are invited to share your flyers, images, and bulletin announcements using Google Drive. All @youngstowndiocese.org emails should have access to these folders, and others can request access on a case-by-case basis. We will respond to all requests within one business day and appreciate your patience.

Clergy and Religious Services

Click the name of the office to read the full text of the announcements. Links to download the parish bulletin/publicity materials are listed below.

OFFICE OF CLERGY SERVICES
OFFICE OF CHURCH VOCATIONS

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. Mark your calendars now and watch our social media for more updates in this new year.

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.

OFFICE OF DEVELOPMENT AND STEWARDSHIP
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Annual Diocesan Appeal March Parish Resources (Bulletin Materials)

The following parish resources help promote the Annual Diocesan Appeal in each weekend of March (Lent + Easter). These and other parish resources are available for download at the bottom of www.doy.org/appeal.

Each week’s parish resource sheet contains:

  • Intercession for Prayers of the Faithful
  • Bulletin announcement
  • Pulpit announcement
  • Social media post/content
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.

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
  • ANNUAL AUGUST GATHERINGS FOR RCIA TEAMS In preparation for the implementation of the OCIA in your parish in the coming year, the Office of Worship will be scheduling workshops for clergy and parish OCIA teams. More information will be coming soon.
  • LIFELONG LEARNING All adult faith formation courses are open to anyone wanting to grow in their faith. These courses are offered in-person or online. Upcoming course: Sowing God’s Word.
  • Considering Preparation for Ministry as a Lay Person? If you have ever wondered about becoming prepared for a parish ministry position, please contact Barbara Walko for assistance in discerning academic and experiential qualifications with a possible path toward meaningful and life giving ministry.
  • Pastors Seeking Parish Ministers Pastors hoping to hire new or additional staff persons in the areas of adult faith formation, youth and young adult ministry, children and family formation, pastoral ministry, and other key areas of parish life are asked to contact Barbara Walko for assistance.
IN THE DIOCESAN LIBRARY
  • LIBRARY UNDERGOING RENOVATIONS -NEW 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
OFFICE OF WORSHIP
WORSHIP: MUSIC
OFFICE OF CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

BULLETIN/PUBLICITY

Office of Pro-Life, Marriage & Family Ministry (Bulletin Materials)**

Project Rachel Lenten Message for Bulletin/Newsletter

There is no sin, including abortion, which is greater than God’s forgiveness. 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/.

25th, 40th, 50th and over Wedding Anniversary Celebration

The Diocese of Youngstown is sponsoring a Wedding Anniversary Celebration on Sunday, May 5, 2:00 p.m. at St. Columba Cathedral in Youngstown, honoring couples observing their 25th, 40th, 50th and over wedding anniversaries in 2024.

The Wedding Anniversary Celebration will include Mass with the Most Reverend David J. Bonnar, Bishop of Youngstown, renewal of marriage vows, a personalized certificate for each couple and a light reception for the couple and their families in the cathedral hall. Couples must make reservations in advance by contacting your parish office as soon as possible, but no later than March 27. Limited spaces are available.

Registration information for the May Wedding Anniversary Celebration was sent to parishes in mid-February. A second anniversary celebration will take place at the Basilica of St. John the Baptist Church in Canton on Sunday, October 20, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. For more information contact 330-744-845 1ext.272 or dschmidt@youngstowndiocese.org.

Please share the following video on your social media channels, website or email list inviting couples to participate: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9A_cZx-09S4

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 a new organ concert series in 2024. Join us Friday, March 22nd at 6:30pm for a recital by Josh Kraybill. A free will offering directly goes toward the Cathedral and Diocesan Music program. Please give generously!

See flier for additional dates: https://doy.org/events/cathedral-organ-recital-josh-kraybill/

Emmet Cahill Concert-March 14th at 7:30pm: The Cathedral of St. Columba

The Cathedral of St. Columba and the Diocese of Youngstown are extremely pleased to announce that the famous Irish tenor of Celtic Thunder will be returning to the Cathedral of St. Columba on March 14, 2024 at 7:30pm!

This will be a very special Benefit Concert for St. Columba Cathedral. Join the star of Celtic Thunder and America’s favorite Irish son, Emmet Cahill, for a night of wonderful music, leaving you with fond memories that will last a lifetime.” Tickets can be bought at: https://emmetcahill.com/tour/youngstown-ohio.

Tenebrae Service- March 24th at 7:00 pm: Blessed Sacrament, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, and St. Mary and Joseph Parishes in Warren

Blessed Sacrament, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, and St. Mary and Joseph Parishes in Warren, Ohio will present a Tenebrae service on Sunday, March 24, 2024, at 7:00 PM at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton – St. James Site, 2532 Burton St. SE, Warren, Ohio 44484. The service will feature scripture readings, prayer reflections and music by the combined Blessed Sacrament, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, and Sts. Mary and Joseph Choirs. For additional information, please contact Tom DeNicholas, Director of Sacred Music at 330-219-3841 or the Blessed Sacrament parish office at 330-372-2215.

PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY

It’s not too late to donate to the Good Samaritan Scholarship Fund for 2023! (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW

Did you miss the opportunity to donate to the Good Samaritan Scholarship Fund in 2023? You can still donate by April 15th and choose to receive your Ohio income tax credit for either 2023 or 2024!  Although only funds donated in 2023 will be available for students in the 2024-2025 school year, funds donated in 2024 will be available for students in the 2025-2026 school year. With Tax Day just around the corner, now is a good time to think about turning your taxes into tuition and help us start to grow the fund for the 2025-2026 school year.  Donations can be designated to benefit students in any of our Diocesan schools, or funds can be designated to a particular school. This is a win-win opportunity for Ohio taxpayers, scholarship recipients, and our schools. Go to www.doy.org/Giving/ to donate to the Good Samaritan Scholarship Fund.

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

All Souls Remembrance Funeral Liturgy (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW

We offer at no charge, to anyone of any faith, who has cremated remains at home or is considering scattering; a proper funeral liturgy and dignified committal performed by one of our deacons at our All Souls Remembrance Crypt on Friday, March 15, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. The service will be held in our four chapels. For more information call: Calvary Cemetery Youngstown (330) 792-4721, Resurrection Cemetery (330) 799-1900, All Souls Cemetery (330) 637-2761 or Calvary Cemetery Massillon (330) 832-1866.

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.

Social Media & News

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