The full Communique is provided in both the customary multiple page format, as well as the digital format below.
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.
May 2022 Communique (DOCX/Word) | PDF
May 2022 Communique Attachments (DOCX/Word) | PDF
Digital Format:
The full Communique – including attachments – 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: right click to save/download. Attachments (e.g. flyers) are also included within the notices for each office below.
Diocesan Events can also be found our Events Calendar.
Chancery
Safe Environment Page, Full Policy, and Resources | Background Check Requirements
1. Who needs to be compliant?
A. All active clergy, religious, seminarians, and persons in formation are required to be compliant.
B. 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.
C. 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.
2. Compliance Requirements
A. Signed Authorization & Verification and Acknowledgement Form submitted to local Compliance Officer.
All clergy, religious, seminarians, persons in formation, and employees, and those volunteers who work with children or vulnerable adults, must review a paper or electronic copy of the Safe Environment Policy and sign the Authorization & Verification Form and Acknowledgement Form. A signed copy must be submitted to your parish, school, or institution Compliance Officer.
B. Fingerprinting and Background Checks
All clergy, religious, seminarians, persons in formation, and employees, and those volunteers who work with children or vulnerable adults, must obtain a BCI or BCI/FBI background check.
Background checks are only valid for five years and must be renewed to maintain compliance. Any Webcheck location may be used and locations can be found at www.ohioattorneygeneral.gov.
Background check requirements and codes are included in this month’s Communique attachments. Background checks must be sent directly to the Safe Environment Coordinator at the Diocese:
Catholic Diocese of Youngstown
Attn: Safe Environment Office
144 West Wood Street
Youngstown, OH 44503
As of January 20, 2020, background checks completed on or after this date for other agencies, employers, dioceses, etc., are not valid for compliance in the Diocese of Youngstown unless a copy is also sent directly to the Safe Environment Coordinator by BCI&I.
C. VIRTUS Account and VIRTUS Protecting God’s Children Class
All clergy, religious, seminarians, persons in formation, and employees, and those volunteers who work with children or vulnerable adults, must create a VIRTUS account with the Diocese of Youngstown and complete the VIRTUS Protecting God’s Children in-service class.
Visit the Safe Environment page on the diocesan website for a schedule of VIRTUS in-service classes and to register in either English or Spanish. Until the threat of covid-19 has subsided, individuals are permitted to take the VIRTUS course online.
Child/Vulnerable Adult protection in-service courses from other agencies, employers, dioceses, Scouts, etc., are not valid for compliance in the Diocese of Youngstown.
3. Updating Information
Compliance Officers must submit updates for current and new employees and volunteers as they complete child protection compliance requirements on a Compliance Checklist. A person is not compliant until the Safe Environment Coordinator receives a Compliance Checklist noting the dates that the requirements were fulfilled. Visit the Safe Environment page on the diocesan website to find the Compliance Checklist.
4. Reporting Child/Vulnerable Adult Abuse
If you or someone you know has been abused at any time by a priest, deacon, religious, seminarian, person in formation, employee or volunteer of the Diocese of Youngstown, or if you believe that abuse has occurred or is currently occurring, contact civil authorities and also Mr. Dominic Colucy, Safe Environment Coordinator/Victim Assistance Coordinator, (office) 330-744-8451 x293 or (response line) 330-718-1388.
Visit the Safe Environment page on the diocesan website to find our most up-to-date Reporting Requirements and Procedures in English and Spanish.
5. Questions or Concerns
For more information about the Diocese of Youngstown Safe Environment Policy, contact by mail: 144 W. Wood Street, Youngstown, OH 44503, phone: 330-744-8451 x293; fax: 330-744-5099; or e-mail: dcolucy@youngstowndiocese.org.
Please note that no priest or deacon may exercise ministry within the Diocese of Youngstown without being granted faculties/permission by the bishop. It is the obligation of the pastor of the parish where ministry or speaking engagement will occur (or other responsible person outside a parish setting) to insure that the visiting cleric has obtained a letter of suitability. Without such a letter, the Diocese, the parish or school and the pastor or president could become legally liable should any wrongdoing occur.
The visiting cleric himself should ask his bishop or religious superior to send a letter of suitability to Bishop Bonnar. Letters of suitability are to be sent from one bishop/superior to another, not directly to a parish, since it is the bishop who is responsible for determining a cleric’s suitability for ministry.
If you have any questions, please contact Msgr. John Zuraw, Chancellor
Every diocese must, by Canon Law, maintain a place to safeguard materials which pertain to the spiritual and temporal affairs of the diocese, as well as its history. These records are to be “diligently protected and systematically ordered (Canon 491.2).” That’s the necessity of the archives. There is also a beauty and a joy to our diocesan archives. The Church beautifully describes the pastoral function of archives as “places of memory of the Christian community.” There is joy in preserving knowledge and understanding of the Church of Youngstown in order to clearly see our present and plan for our future. We need the memory stored in our archives in order to tell truthfully the story of the people, the saints, the leaders and workers, who have shaped our communities. The archives staff looks forward in the months and years ahead, to assessing, organizing, collecting, preserving, and making available the records and materials of our community memory. If you have questions, please contact Joan Lawson, Archivist, at 330-744-8451 x290, or email jlawson@youngstowndiocese.org.
Canonical Services
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
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
1. FIRST STEP FOR CHANGE
Catholic Charities is preparing for the annual First Step for Change campaign to take place 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 their children.
Funds raised through this campaign assist low-income pregnant women and families with food, formula, clothing, diapers and other items essential to a child’s health, safety and well-being.
Each family interested in participating in First Step for Change is asked to pick up a FIRST STEP packet after Mass; take the packet home; learn about the program; complete the participation card and return it to the parish by June 30. If your parish is not participating, donations will also be accepted online beginning in May. www.ccdoy.org
Bulletin Announcements are included in the Attachments (DOCX/Word) | PDF
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
2. CATHOLIC CHARITIES REGIONAL AGENCY – “WOMEN FORE WOMEN”
“Catholic Charities Regional Agency is hosting a golf outing to benefit Christina House in Columbiana County. The event is an all-women’s outing called “Women Fore Women” and will be July 11 at The Links at Firestone Farms. Spots are filling up quickly. Registration can be found online at https://www.ccdoy.org/2022/03/02/golf/. Sponsorship opportunities are available as well as hole sponsor advertising.
Catholic Charities Regional Agency continues to have rental, mortgage and utility assistance related to the effects of COVID through the Emergency Rental Assistance Treasury program in Mahoning and Trumbull Counties. Contact our offices in either county for more information. Locate your nearest service agency here: https://www.ccdoy.org/locations/
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
3. JOB OPPORTUNITY – ST. VINCENT DE PAUL, MAHONING
Mahoning County District of Saint Vincent De Paul Thrift Store Manager
The Store Manager manages the activities needed to accomplish the store’s goals and sales objectives, operate within a budget, and follow loss prevention and merchandising guidelines. The Store Manager leads, directs, and motivates SVDP employees and volunteers to work together to provide excellent customer service for the achievement of the SVDP mission.
A minimum of two years retail management experience is required. Experience with Microsoft Office, Word, Excel, and willing to learn other computer programs as needed. Advanced user of POS systems and familiar with Paycheck Flex preferred. Demonstrates knowledge of the retail market and willing to understand pricing structures of competitors. Demonstrates accuracy and self – motivated to succeed in the position with concrete and measurable financial outcomes. Proven work history of inspiring as well as evaluating employees to fulfill all work requirements.
The Store Manager will work for up to 32 hours per week including some Saturdays, and will initially oversee one staff and many volunteers. The position offers a financial package valued between $32,000 and $34,000/year.
Apply online with Salary.com, or Tarta.ai
4. SAVE THE DATE – JULY 10, 2022 – THE ANNUAL AFRICAN AMERICAN SUNDAY
A day of worship & praise; a day to meet black Catholics from around the tristate area.
This year’s liturgist: Father Joseph Brown, S.J Ph. D. at Sorrowful Mother of Mary Shrine, Bellevue, Ohio.
For more information contact:
Bil Haney (the Toledo Black Catholic Ministry) @ (419) 357-5170.
1. 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:
1. The project requesting funds must be operated within the geographical boundaries of the Diocese of Youngstown.
2. Projects must be consistent with Catholic moral and social teaching.
3. Recipient must be a not-for-profit organization.
4. The project requesting funds should make an immediate impact to alleviate poverty and hunger within the Diocese of Youngstown.
5. Grants are made on an annual basis only.
Completed applications (including required attachments) must be submitted by July 31, 2022.
Grants will be awarded by September 15, 2022.
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.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Full Page Flyer for Kolbe Gathering (or see text below)
Kolbe Gathering
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.
St. Maximilian Kolbe is Patron Saint of prisoners and drug addicts. He was martyred at Auschwitz Concentration Camp.
For further information contact William Barber, Coordinator for Prison Ministry, at 330.235.3920.
Communications and Media Offices
Publication dates and special sections for The Exponent are as follows:
May 13 (Special Sections: Wedding and Marriage / Summer Fun)
May 27 (Special Sections: Seniors – Living 50+ / Ads for Grads)
June 10 (Special Section: Women in Business)
June 24 (Special Section: Banking & Investments)
The normal deadline for each issue is 12 days before the publication date. We try to get late information into the issue, but are sometimes limited by lack of available space.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
The Catholic Exponent is your source for informative, reliable, and doctrinally sound news stories, features, and commentary – keeping you up to date on local events such as Catholic school Advent programs and parish events, as well as the news of the Church across the country and around the globe.
To subscribe, call 330-744-5251 or email exposubscriptions@youngstowndiocese.org to request subscription information. Thank you for supporting your diocesan newspaper.
1. Cardinal Mooney Baccalaureate Mass
Live Stream the Cardinal Mooney Baccalaureate Mass from St. Columba Cathedral on Thursday, May 26 at 6:00 p.m. at www.doy.org/live/.
2. Ursuline High School Baccalaureate Mass
Live Stream the Ursuline High School Baccalaureate Mass from St. Columba Cathedral on Friday, May 27 at 6:00 p.m. at
www.doy.org/live/
3. Radio Programming – Wineskins
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
(Adaptable)
Wineskins airs every Sunday at 7:30 a.m. on WKBN 570 AM in Youngstown, WRQX 600 AM in Salem at 7:30 a.m., WILB AM Canton 1060/WILB FM 89.5 Youngstown/WILB FM 94.5 Canton at 9:30 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. Listen to Wineskins on the diocesan website by going to www.doy.org/live/ and clicking on the Wineskins button.
The Current Issue Segment will feature: May 1: Fr. Jack Lavelle talks about the Elderly in the Life Issues Segment; May 8: Fr. Jim Korda speaks with Fr. Scott Kopp on Vocations; May 15: Jill Valentic talks about Catholic Charities in Ashtabula County; May 22: Fr. Jim Korda speaks with Deacon Connor Hetzel; and, May 29: Fr. Jim Korda speaks with Julie Sutton
Bobbi Bankovich, from St. Paul Church, North Canton, will tell us about the Saints celebrated this month in our series Obscure Saints: May 1: The Holy Apostle Onesimus; May 8: Venerable John Cassian; May 15: Venerable Martyr Eudocia; May 22: The 42 Martyrs from Ammoria; and, May 29: Holy 40 Martyrs of Sebaste.
The Interview Segment will include: May 1: Fr. Jim Korda speaks with Jill Valentic, Part III; May 8: Fr. Jim Korda interviews Msgr. John Zuraw on the Synod; May 15: Fr. Jim Korda speaks with Sr. Joyce Candidi, OSHJ, on the Synod; May 22: Fr. Jim Korda speaks with Joan Lawson on the Synod; and, May 29: Fr. Jim Korda speaks with Justin Huyck on the Synod.
This month’s Music Segment is from the CD “Wisdom,” by John Michael Talbot.
Fr. Matthew Zwilling, Fr. Matthew Zwilling, Vice Rector of the Cathedral of Saint Columba and Administrator of Christ the Good Shepherd, Campbell, will give his reflections on the Sunday Scripture Readings: May 1: Third Sunday of Easter; May 8: Fourth Sunday of Easter; May 15: Fifth Sunday of Easter; May 22: Sixth Sunday of Easter; and, May 29: Ascension of the Lord.
1. Parishes and other diocesan entities who receive inquiries from the media are asked to consult with Justin Huyck, Coordinator of Media Relations: (330) 744-8451, ext. 320; jhuyck@youngstowndiocese.org
2. Please also kindly inform the Office of Media Relations when your programs, initiatives, and ministries are featured in the news media.
3. The Office of Media Relations is available to consult on news releases regarding events and initiatives. Processes will continue to be developed to assist these efforts.
1. May 29: World Communication Day
Pope Paul VI established this day following the Second Vatican Council, celebrated each year on the Sunday before Pentecost, which falls on May 29th this year. This day is meant to help us ponder the significant role of communication, technology, and social media in our world today. “It is the fruit of a Church that is willing to read the signs of the times, step outside of itself and engage with the modern world.”
The theme for 2022 is: “Listening with the ear of the heart.”
Pope Francis says in his message for World Communications Day,
The most important task in pastoral activity is the “apostolate of the ear” – to listen before speaking, as the Apostle James exhorts: “Let every man be quick to hear, slow to speak” (1:19). Freely giving some of our own time to listen to people is the first act of charity.
Read the full message: https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/messages/communications/documents/20220124-messaggio-comunicazioni-sociali.html
May we all ponder the importance of listening in our communication efforts!
2. Private Facebook Group for DOY Social Media Networking
A private Facebook group ongoing networking regarding social media can be found at:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2882358088720802
This is a great 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. Note: This is a key way the Social Media Minister is beginning to share insights as to avoid overwhelming contacts email boxes.
3. Social Media Helpful Hint of the Month – Best Times to Post
Using the analytic tools on your social media platforms will help you to see when the most people engage and interact with your parish, school or organization’s posts, and can then help you decide when is best for you to post going forward. For example, on our most recent networking virtual meeting, Holy Spirit Parish in Uniontown discovered that 6:00 a.m. during the week works best for parishioners who check social media before heading to work.
However, if you are just getting started, you do not yet have an engaged audience, or you would just like to know what national trends show, check out this article:
Sprout April 2022 Report on When to Post
Sprout Social has over 30,000 customers so the report is based on those interactions on the platforms of Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn. They then use these days and times as guidance for future posts. Consider trying these to see if that increases engagement for you.
Clergy and Religious Services
1. Priest Anniversary and Retirement Celebration
The annual Priest Anniversary Celebration will be on Wednesday, May 18, 2022 at Immaculate Conception Church, Ravenna. The evening will begin at 5:30 p.m. with Solemn Evening Prayer followed by Social Time and Dinner.
Congratulations the following Priests celebrating Ordination Anniversaries:
60th Anniversary
Reverend Carl Kish
Reverend John Lody
Reverend James McKarns
Reverend John MulQueen
Reverend Raymond Paul
50th Anniversary
Reverend A. Edward Gretchko
Very Reverend Raymond Thomas, V.F.
Reverend John Zapp
25th Anniversary
Very Reverend Thomas Kraszewski, V.F.
Congratulations the following Priests who are retiring:
Reverend Msgr. Frank Carfagna
Reverend James Korda
Reverend Robert Edwards
Reverend J. Patrick Manning
Very Reverend Msgr. Lewis Gaetano, V.F.
Reverend Michael Mikstay
Reverend A. Edward Gretchko
Reverend Raymond Paul
Reverend John Zapp
2. Transitional Deacon Ordination
Bishop Bonnar will ordain the following to the Order of Deacon on Saturday, June 3, 2022 in Saint Columba Cathedral at 10:30 a.m.
Mr. Brook Benedict
Mr. Robert England
Mr. John Rovnak
Mr. Frederick Schlueter
3. Priesthood Ordination
Bishop Bonnar will ordain Rev. Mr. Connor Hetzel to the Priesthood on Saturday, June 18, 2022 in Saint Columba Cathedral at 10:30 a.m.
4. 2022 Notre Dame Preaching Conference
The 2022 Marten Program Preaching Conference, “Living in the Light of the Word: Enlivening the Scriptural Imagination,”will be held on June 20-22, 2022 at the University of Notre Dame. More information and registration materials can be found at: https://theology.nd.edu/graduate-programs/initiatives/marten-program/conferences-lectures/2022-preaching-conference/.
Early Registration $300.00 through April 30, 2022. After May 1, 2022 – $350.00.
1. Ordination Dates
On Saturday, June 4, 2022, at 10:30am in St. Columba Cathedral, Bishop Bonnar will ordain as Transitional Deacons:
- Mr. Brook Benedict
- Mr. Robert England
- Mr. John Rovnak
- Mr. Frederick Schlueter
On Saturday, June 18, 2022, at 10:30am in St. Columba Cathedral, Bishop Bonnar will ordain to the Priesthood:
- Deacon Connor Hetzel
2. Seminarian Posters and Prayer Cards
Please contact the Vocations Office when you would like more copies of the 2021-22 Seminarian Poster or Prayer Card.
3. Vocation Director at Your Parish / School
Diocesan Vocation Director Fr. Scott Kopp has a weekly cycle of visiting our 6 Catholic high schools. If you have a special youth ministry, parish, retreat, or vocational event, consider asking him to attend or speak. 330-744-8451 or by email at skopp@youngstowndiocese.org.
4. Come and See Weekends
Weekend visits to the seminary are being put on hold for the year because of COVID and construction at the Cleveland seminary.
5. 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 one, please contact Father Scott Kopp at 330-744-8451 or by email at skopp@youngstowndiocese.org.
6. Seminary Field Trips
Field trips to the seminary are being put on hold for the year because of COVID and construction at the Cleveland seminary.
7. Vocation Intercessions and Bulletin Blurbs for May
In the Communiqué Attachments are vocation intercessions and bulletin blurbs for the month of May. 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.
May 2022 Communique Attachments (DOCX/Word) | PDF
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
8. Vocations Social Media
Website: www.doy.org/vocations | Facebook: doyvocations
Religious Jubilarian/Conference Day – Save the Date
We invite all religious to reserve Saturday, October 22, 2022 and to celebrate with religious jubilarians of 25, 50, 60 years, and beyond, at Holy Family Parish in Poland. A social begins at 12:45 p.m. followed by dinner and Sister Regina Rogers, OSU, presenting on the history of Religious Life in the Diocese of Youngstown. Bishop Bonnar will celebrate Holy Mass at 4:00 p.m. Brochures and Registration Forms will be sent at a later date.
Development and Stewardship Offices
2022 Annual Diocesan Appeal
Father John-Michael Lavelle continues to send weekly updates regarding the appeal, including parish updates as well as bulletin materials and suggested announcements. These materials are also posted at www.doy.org/appeal/
1. Endowments with the Diocese of Youngstown Foundation
You are invited to Leave a Legacy for your parish, Catholic school, or Catholic ministry by establishing a perpetual endowment fund within the Diocese of Youngstown Foundation. The income from these funds is available to the designated parish, school, or ministry, and is restricted to the purpose(s) which the donors establish. For questions about the Diocese of Youngstown Foundation, please contact Pat Kelly at pkelly@youngstowndiocese.org
2. Stewardship Thoughts for Parish Bulletins
May 2022 Vocations and Stewardship Thoughts for Parish Bulletins
Pastoral and Educational Services
1. Orientation for Newer Parish Ministers
The Office of Faith Formation and Lay Ecclesial Ministry and the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry offers the fourth installment of the Orientation series on Thursday, May 12, 2022 at Saint Columba Hall from 12:00 – 2:30 p.m. Newer parish ministers are encouraged to participate to become better acquainted with parish and diocesan policies and procedures. Please contact the Office to register for Orientation 401.
2. National Opportunities for Continuing Formation
National Gathering on Christian Initiation Conference
“Evaluating and Revitalizing the RCIA in Your Parish 2022” is the theme of the National Gathering on Christian Initiation, a conference for catechumenal ministers and pastoral leaders. Sponsored by Liturgical Training Publications, the conference is scheduled for July 13 and 14, 2022 in Chicago, Illinois. Additional information and registration is available at: www.ngci.org.
NALM Annual Conference
The National Association for Lay Ministry Annual Conference “Moving Forward with the Spirit” will be held May 31 – June 2, 2022 virtually. The keynote speaker, Sister Nathalie Becquart, XMCJ, is the Vatican Undersecretary to the General Secretariat of the Synod of Bishops. She is the first woman to hold this position and be able to vote in a Vatican Synod. Registration information is available at www.nalm.org.
3. Considering Preparation for Ministry as a Lay Person?
All Christian persons by nature of their Baptism, and strengthened by Confirmation, are called to pass on the faith with a zeal for bringing others closer to Christ and the Church. Some persons have a particular call to participate in the work of the church as professionally prepared lay ecclesial ministers. These persons share responsibility for various areas including pastoral care, adult faith formation, youth and young adult ministry, family and children catechesis, sacramental preparation, liturgy, music, and evangelization. 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.
4. Pastors Seeking Parish Ministers
Pastors hoping to hire new or additional staff persons in the areas of adult faith formation, youth ministry, young adult ministry, children and family formation, pastoral ministry, and other key areas of parish life are asked to contact Barbara Walko for assistance. The office will provide assistance in posting available positions, screening applicants, preparation of a position description and compensation packages.
5. Ministry Preparation: Earn a Master of Arts degree locally
Look into LIMEX! Loyola University New Orleans offers degrees and certificates in Ministry and Theology in an Extension Program. We are still gathering a local learning group for 2022, and it’s not too late to enter the process. For additional information, contact Margie Hynes in the Office of Faith Formation and Lay Ecclesial Ministry, 330-744-8451 x296, or email mhynes@youngstowndiocese.org.
6. Resources to Implement Bishop Bonnar’s First Pastoral Letter
With Bishop Bonnar’s letter, “Testify to the Light” many parishes may embark on new or enhanced efforts in the five areas he has prioritized. The Office of Faith Formation and Lay Ecclesial Ministry has curated a list of resources which may be reviewed on the home page of https://catechistcafe.weebly.com. Please feel free to contact the staff of the Office of Faith Formation and Lay Ecclesial Ministry to borrow these and other resources to develop Faith Formation and Pastoral processes. The staff is anxious to help parishes design new initiatives to respond to the needs in the diverse church communities.
7. New Library Resources
“Don’t You Dare Forgive Unless…” :Finding what you most deeply want. Fr. Joe Kempf.
Twenty-Third Publications, 2020. Filled with stories of real-life situations of hurt and betrayal, Fr. Joe asks the difficult questions about what it takes to truly forgive someone, when to do so, and how to give ourselves the space to heal in the arms of our loving God.
I Am With You Always: Stories of Jesus to Inspire Deeper Prayer. Leo Gafney. Twenty-Third Publications, 2021. Through imaginative stories Gafney helps readers place themselves into the Scripture accounts. Then he offers a powerful reflection and questions that draw out the implications for our own lives of faith today. Designed for group discussion as well as personal inspiration.
Holy Land: A Pilgrimage Through the Footsteps of Jesus. Rev. Donald Senior, C.P., S.T.D.Learn25, 2017. DVD. Embark on a life-changing journey through the Holy Land. Called a “Fifth Gospel,” the lands where Jesus lived illuminate the reality of His life and times. Rev. Donald Senior guides you on a virtual pilgrimage through the Holy Land.
Do Unto Otters: A Book About Manners. Laurie Keller. Macmillian Publishing Group, 2009. Mr. Rabbit’s new neighbors are Otters. OTTERS! But he doesn’t know anything about otters. Will they get along? Will they be friends? Just treat otters the same way you’d like them to treat you, advises Mr. Owl. 4+ years.
8. Coming soon: Diocesan Certification Opportunities for Catechists and Teachers Spring/Summer
A listing of the Diocesan Certification Opportunities for Catechists and Teachers Spring/Summer will soon be available at Catechist Cafe. Core courses, general courses, parish-sponsored, college/university-hosted, and other regional organizations are included in the list of online and onsite sessions. Visit https://catechistcafe.weebly.com/catechist-courses.html . (CHECK THE PAGE OFTEN FOR LINKS TO FREE WEBINARS and ONLINE EVENTS FROM CATHOLIC UNIVERSITIES, ORGANIZATIONS, AND PUBLISHERS. NEWS IS ADDED WEEKLY.)
9. Best kept secret: Library
What’s the best kept secret in the Youngstown diocese? Our expansive library of materials to enrich your faith. We have books, DVDs and audio books about bereavement support, bible study, devotionals and prayer. Explore our collection online at https://doylib.follettdestiny.com or visit us in person, 225 Elm St., Youngstown, Monday-Friday 8:00 am – 4:00 pm. Contact Margie Hynes for more information 330-744-8451, mhynes@youngstowndiocese.org.
You are welcome to visit the library at the diocesan offices located at 225 Elm St., Youngstown. We have a large collection of books that cover a wide variety of topics, including: bereavement support, catholic social teaching, liturgy and worship, prayer, and saints just to name a few. If you need a book on grandparenting, seasonal devotions, bible study, or Church documents, we have what you need. We also have a collection of children’s books, DVDs, and audio books.
The Library is open 8:00 am – 4:00 pm, Monday – Friday. You are always welcome to stop by and look around or you can view our collection online at https://doylib.follettdestiny.com. Contact Margie Hynes (330) 744-8451, mhynes@youngstowndiocese.org for more information.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
1. Memorial Service for Miscarried & Stillborn Children
If you know someone who has suffered the loss of a child through miscarriage or stillbirth, please invite them to one of the following Memorial Services on Sunday, May 15, at 2:00 p.m. in the chapels at:
– Calvary Cemetery, Youngstown (248 Belle Vista Ave.), or
– Calvary Cemetery, Massillon (3469 Lincoln Way E.).
Parents, family, grandparents and others are encouraged to attend. Sponsored by the Diocese of Youngstown Office of Worship, Office of Pro-Life, Marriage and Family Life, and Catholic Cemeteries. For more information call 330-744-8451 ext. 272.
A flier may be found in the attachments section of this Communique.
May 2022 Communique Attachments (DOCX/Word) | PDF
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
2. Eleventh Annual Faith & Family Festival – Save the Date: September 25
A day of fun and fulfillment for families, students and friends will be held on Sunday, September 25, 2022, on the West Quad of the campus of Walsh University at 2020 E. Maple St., North Canton. The day will begin at 11:00 a.m. with Mass with Bishop Bonnar. Our featured presenter is Fr. Leo Patalinghug “the cooking priest” from Plating Grace. The day will also include musical acts, activities for kids and young people, vendors and exhibitors, and food. For more information contact dschmidt@youngstowndiocese.org or 330-744-8451 ext. 272.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
3. Special Reception for Potential Donors and Volunteers for the Faith & Family Festival
In recent years the annual Faith & Family Festival has been provided free to families throughout the Diocese of Youngstown with the help of many generous sponsors. Unfortunately, the event was cancelled the last two years due to covid. Knowing that families could really use a fun, fulfilling and free day, we are hoping to make our 2022 Faith & Family Festival bigger and better than ever.
Therefore on Wednesday, May 25 at 6:00 p.m. in the St. Martha Room in Walsh University’s Barrette Center, we will be hosting a special reception for potential donors and volunteers for the Faith & Family Festival. Would you like to help make this year’s event a huge success? RSVP at 330-744-8451 ext.272 or dschmidt@youngstowndiocese.org.
4. World Meeting of Families June 22-26 in Rome
Because of covid, the World Meeting of Families in Rome on June 22-26 has been limited to a relatively small gathering of invited guests primarily representative of episcopal conferences and ecclesial movements. In place of the public worldwide gathering, the Vatican is strongly encouraging that all dioceses celebrate the World Meeting by gathering families for a customized, local experience of formation, prayer, and fellowship. In the Diocese of Youngstown our gathering will take place at our Faith & Family Festival on Sunday, September 25 on the campus of Walsh University, beginning with Mass with Bishop Bonnar.
In the meantime, consider using the following resource: Family Love: A Vocation & A Path to Holiness – A Toolkit to Celebrate Families. The Office of Pro-Life, Marriage and Family Life had the pleasure of collaborating with neighboring dioceses to create this resource and it can be found on the website of the National Association of Catholic Family Life Ministers at https://nacflm.org/family-love-toolkit/. Additional resources may be found on the USCCB website at https://www.usccb.org/topics/marriage-and-family-life-ministries/year-amoris-laetitia-family and on a special Vatican website at http://www.laityfamilylife.va/content/laityfamilylife/en/amoris-laetitia.html#esortazione-apostolica.
For more information contact dschmidt@youngstowndiocese.org or 330-744-8451 ext. 272.
5. Intercessions for Life and Pro-Life Bulletin Briefs
Recommended intercessions and bulletin briefs for March, prepared by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Secretariat for Pro-Life Activities, may be found at https://www.respectlife.org/word-of-life.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
6. Project Rachel Outreach – May Message for Bulletin/Newsletter:
There is no sin, including abortion, that 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/.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
7. Pray for Dobbs
Although the U.S. Supreme Court has already heard the oral arguments in the case of Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Secretariat for Pro-Life Activities continues to encourage participation in “Pray for Dobbs.” This Supreme Court case could impact the fate of millions of preborn children and their mothers, and their decision is not expected until this summer. Join thousands of Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant Christians uniting in prayer and fasting! Learn more and sign up for updates at www.prayfordobbs.com.
The www.prayfordobbs.com website also contains resources, such as announcements, images, flyers and action ideas to promote this unique opportunity to unite in prayer.
8. Walking with Moms in Need
Towards the end of March, Bishop Bonnar wrote to all pastors and associate pastors encouraging them to implement 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.
The Office of Pro-Life, Marriage and Family Life is already piloting Walking with Moms in Need in the Eastern Stark County Region of our diocese and would be happy to help establish this important effort in your parish, region or deanery as well. Contact Dave Schmidt at 330-744-8451 ext. 272 or dschmidt@youngstowndiocese.org.
1. 45th National Association of Pastoral Musicians (NPM) Convention
The 54th National Association of Pastoral Musicians (NPM) Convention will be held in Louisville, Kentucky June 28-July 1, 2022. This year’s theme is “Tested by Fire – Renewed and Transformed.” The event will be a “hybrid event,” offering both an in-person and virtual experience for an attendee to register. For more information: www.npm.org
2. Sacred Music Conference – Atheneaum of Ohio
The Sacred Music Institute at Mount Saint Mary Seminary, Cincinnati will offer a three-day conference entitled “Sung Worship: the Work of Our Baptism” on July 20-23, 2022. The conference will focus on the meaning of sung worship, the element of sacrifice in the Mass, and the notion of active participation in the liturgy as the vocation of the baptized. For more information: www.athenaeum.edu/sung-worship
3.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
4. Low Gluten Hosts
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 Parish Crossroads
31970 State Highway P P.O. Box 84
Clyde, MO 64432-8100 Zionsville, IN 46077-0084
800-223-2772 800-510-8842
www.BenedictineSisters.org www.ParishCrossroads.com
Gluten Content: 0.01% Gluten Content: 0.016%
GlutenFreeHosts.com Inc. Cavanagh Company
100 Buckley Road 610 Putnam Pike
Liverpool, NY 13088 Greenville, RI 02828
800-668-7324 800-635-0568
www.GlutenFreeHosts.com www.CavanaghCo.com
Gluten Content: 0.002% Gluten Content: 0.00042%
5. 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 from the diocesan website by clicking on “Worship” under the “Ministries” tab.
1. The 2022 Eagle of the Cross Awards are being held on May 2nd, 2022 at St. Columba Cathedral. There were 29 Eagle of the Cross winners throughout the Diocese. Congratulations to all the nominees and winners.
2. Please contact Fr. Ryan Furlong if you are interested in sending a group to Franciscan University in Steubenville for their Youth Conference.
3. The office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry in collaboration with University of Kent Parish Newman Center held a night of praise and adoration at Kent Newman Main Campus on Thursday, April 21st. If you are interested in holding events at your parish or campus please contact Fr. Ryan.
4. Several “Eucharistic Processions for Life, will be held throughout the diocese. The day will include food, prayer, adoration and confession and a Eucharistic Procession. The events will be held at various parishes This event will focus specifically on grades 8-12 and young adults, however ALL ARE WELCOME!
5. The Frassati fellowship young adult night of prayer will be held on the first and third Monday’s of the month, at St. Dominic Parish in Youngstown, Ohio. All parishes, please advise all your young adults of this monthly night of prayer and fellowship.
6. Men and Women United for Life and the office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry collaborated on the Culture Project on April 24. The presentation was held at St. Charles in Boardman. Please contact Fr. Ryan for more info.
Miscellaneous
BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Flyer: Divine Mercy Chaplet at Cemeteries
(or see text below)
DIOCESAN CEMETERIES: CHAPLET OF DIVINE MERCY
Catholic Funeral and Cemetery Services of the Diocese of Youngstown will be offering The Chaplet of Divine Mercy Prayer Service in the chapels of our 4 Cemeteries at 3:00 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
HONORING MOTHERS
On May 7th from 9am – 1pm, we are honoring mothers living and deceased at our cemeteries with flowers and a prayer card, and light refreshments and our staff will be available to answer any questions and give out maps of the cemeteries. They will be available to write up any work orders for work that need done at our families’ graves. All are Welcome at Resurrection Cemetery in Austintown, Calvary Cemetery in Youngstown, All Souls Cemetery in Cortland and Calvary Cemetery in Massillon.
VETERANS MEMORIAL EVENT
The Cemeteries will Honor Our Veterans with a Memorial on May 28, with the National Anthem, Presentation of Colors, Speaker, Taps and a rifle salute. At all four of the Diocesan Cemeteries; All Souls Cemetery in Cortland, Calvary Cemetery in Massillon, Calvary Cemetery in Youngstown and Resurrection Cemetery in Austintown. There will be refreshments. All are welcome. Check on our website or on facebook for event times: www.cfcsyoungstown.org
ROSARY WALK
The first Wednesday of the month at 10am, June through September will feature a Rosary Walk led by The Oblate Sisters at Calvary Cemetery in Youngstown, and The Congregation of the Divine Spirit at Calvary Cemetery in Massillon. All are welcome.
ALL SOULS REMEMBERANCE SERVICE
We offer at no charge, to anyone, of any faith, who has cremated remains at home or unclaimed cremated remains at a funeral home or other facility, a dignified funeral liturgy and committal of the cremated remains. At all of our 4 Diocesan Cemeteries; All Souls Cemetery in Cortland, Calvary Cemetery in Massillon, Calvary Cemetery in Youngstown and Resurrection Cemetery in Austintown on June 17 at 9am. Please call us if you have any questions at 330 792-4721.
HONORING FATHERS
On June 18th from 9am – 1pm, we are Honoring Fathers living and deceased at our cemeteries with For-Get-Me-Not flower seeds and a prayer card, and light refreshments and our staff will be available to answer any questions and give out maps of the cemeteries. They will be available to write up any work orders for work that needs done at our families’ graves. All are Welcome at Resurrection Cemetery in Austintown, Calvary Cemetery in Youngstown, All Souls Cemetery in Cortland and Calvary Cemetery in Massillon.
Rev. Msgr. Maroun Eid 1/80
Rev. Msgr. Thaddeus A. Heruday 1/88
Rev. Msgr. John J. Daum 2/06
Rev. Stewart Platt 2/16
Rev. Walter Pax, CPPS 3/60
Rev. Daniel Venglarik 3/07
Rev. John Baverso, OP 7/60
Rev. J. Jerome Hickey 7/90
Rev. John F. Roach 6/87
Rev. John R. Summers 8/15
Rev. Thomas Grotenrath, CPPS 9/54
Rev. Philip P. Conley 9/00
Rev. Quintin Helline 12/81
Rev. J. Francis Dietz 13/44
Rev. Joseph Iati 13/86
Rev. James O’Brien 13/13
Deacon Louis Centric 14/04
Rev. Thomas Fogarty, S.S.P. 14/17
Rev. Frederick Trucksis 14/19
Rev. Charles Poore 16/13
Deacon David Arend 16/19
Rev. Tarcisius Kukla, OFM 18/48
Rev. David Lettau 21/09
Rev. William Yurko 22/99
Rev. Coleman J. Hynes 23/53
Rt. Rev. Msgr. Joseph Reichlin 23/61
Rev. Joseph Kostik 23/70
Deacon Louis A. Cosentino 23/16
Rev. Thomas Heimann 24/92
Rt. Rev. Msgr. John J. Lettau 25/96
Rev. Felix Carosso 26/85
Rev. Paul Petric 26/85
Rev. John Pertz 27/92
Rev. Lambert T. Andrews 29/75
Rev. Joseph Marositz, MSC 29/79
Rev. George Brugger, OSB 30/55
Rev. Joseph P. McCann 31/54
Rev. Wenceslas J. Vukonic 31/61
Rev. William J. Lawler 31/72
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