Keep the Flame Burning
As we celebrate Mary in the month of May, our hearts prepare for the Holy Spirit’s movement on Pentecost, renewing the face of the earth.
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):
- May Communique Attachments Folder (contains printable version, text-only version, images & flyers): https://bit.ly/may2024comm
- 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.
- May 2024 Shared Publicity Folder https://bit.ly/may2024sharedoy
- June 2024 Shared Publicity Folder https://bit.ly/june2024sharedoy
- July 2024 Shared Publicity Folder https://bit.ly/july2024sharedoy
Quote of the Month
“We all have a vocation. Whether we’re ordained or not ordained, God calls each and every one of us to do something special for him. And our journey is all about discerning what that is.” -Bishop David J. Bonnar
Quote from The Catholic Echo Podcast, episode 25 on Vocations. Listen every week at catholicecho.org/podcast or search for “Catholic Echo” in your favorite podcasting platform.
Above: Lilies and oil lamp at the celebration of Religious Jubilees on April 13, 2024 at Blessed Sacrament Parish in Warren, Ohio | Photo by Brian Keith
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.
- Safe Environment Compliance Reminder for Music Ministers – No child, young person, or vulnerable adult is permitted to interact with a music minister that is not safe environment compliant.
- 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.
- Upcoming Events with Bishop Bonnar (Bulletin Materials) – Bulletin materials available for upcoming events with Bishop Bonnar.
- Archives Request for Anniversary Books or Brochures – For records 70 years or newer, certificates may be provided only for the person named in the sacramental record, a diocesan official involved in canonical investigations, a parent or legal guardian of a minor child, or an individual with valid power of attorney for the person who received the sacrament.
- Catholic Leadership Institute Update – Parishes whose pastors participated in the Catholic Leadership Institute Intensive Track will retake the Disciple Maker Index survey this fall. Parishes who participated in the virtual track are also invited to retake the DMI. Please contact CLI directly for details.
- Ministry Day Rescheduled to February 20, 2027 – Ministry Day has been rescheduled to Saturday, February 20, 2027 at Saint Michael Parish in Canfield
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
CHURCH AT HOME COMBINED COLLECTION (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
This Collection will be held the weekend of JUne 1/2, 2024.
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.
- October is RESPECT LIFE MONTH (Bulletin Materials) – In October, the Catholic Church in the United States celebrates Respect Life Month.
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
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.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
World Children’s Day (Bulletin Materials)** -UPDATED
The Office of Youth & Young Adult Accompaniment, in collaboration with the Office of Faith Formation & Lay Ecclesial Ministry, is pleased to bring to your attention the first World Children’s Day instituted by the Vatican, which is being celebrated on May 25-26, 2024!
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!
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 Podcast Topics: October-December 2026 – Join us for a biweekly discussion of your burning spiritual questions. For more information about the Catholic Echo Podcast topics, visit catholicecho.org/podcast.
- Wineskins Schedule: September – October 2026 (Bulletin Materials) – The “Wineskins” radio show 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.
- Ministry Day Rescheduled to February 20, 2027 – Ministry Day has been rescheduled to Saturday, February 20, 2027 at Saint Michael Parish in Canfield
- Parish Directory Updates – Please note recent changes to merged parish web addresses, offices, and other directory updates.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
The Catholic Echo (Bulletin Materials)**
Catholic Echo logos are included on the DOY Brand page: doyorg.wpenginepowered.com/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
Diocesan Directory Updates -NEW
This document summarizes parish collaborations, mergers, and clergy assignments since November 30, 2023. Most of the changes have effective dates of May 1 or July 1, 2024.
If you change your Mass times, please notify us whenever you update your bulletin!
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.
- Catholic Leadership Institute Update – Parishes whose pastors participated in the Catholic Leadership Institute Intensive Track will retake the Disciple Maker Index survey this fall. Parishes who participated in the virtual track are also invited to retake the DMI. Please contact CLI directly for details.
- Ministry Day Rescheduled to February 20, 2027 – Ministry Day has been rescheduled to Saturday, February 20, 2027 at Saint Michael Parish in Canfield
- The Office of Vocations for Diocese of Youngstown Launches New Branding – The mission is to help men and women discern and respond to God’s call
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
- Website: www.doyorg.wpenginepowered.com/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: 92.3% – Fr. John-Michael Lavelle emails updates on individual parishes’ performance on the Appeal. This information is also posted online here.
- Oct – Dec 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.
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Annual Diocesan Appeal May Parish Resources (Bulletin Materials)
The following parish resources help promote the Annual Diocesan Appeal in May until Pentecost. These and other parish resources are available for download at the bottom of www.doyorg.wpenginepowered.com/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.
- Ministry Day Rescheduled to February 20, 2027 – Ministry Day has been rescheduled to Saturday, February 20, 2027 at Saint Michael Parish in Canfield
- Lifelong Learning: New Course For Adults starting in October – All adult faith formation courses are open to anyone wanting to grow in their faith and learn more about our Catholic Church. There are courses offered online and in-person.
- Let us Pray for Persons With Disabilities, their families, and our parishes – Parishes are encouraged to utilize these to add to the Universal Prayers at weekend Masses, and prayer groups are encouraged to utilize these at meetings/gatherings to pray for persons facing challenges or accommodation needs due to disabilities.
- Prayer Intentions for Pastoral Ministers at Parishes – Prayers of petition for lay ecclesial ministers. Sponsored by the Office of Faith Formation and Lay Ecclesial Ministry.
- Personnel Reports and Catechetical Reports Deadline Quickly Approaching! (10/13/26) – Current leaders are asked to complete and return the personnel lists for all catechetical and pastoral ministers and the program report as soon as possible.
- SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION FOR ADULTS (Bulletin Materials) – The celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation for adults will be held on Sunday, November 22, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. at St. Columba Cathedral.
- Ministry Day Rescheduled to February 20, 2027 – Ministry Day has been rescheduled to Saturday, February 20, 2027 at Saint Michael Parish in Canfield
- Ministry Day Rescheduled to February 20, 2027 – Ministry Day has been rescheduled to Saturday, February 20, 2027 at Saint Michael Parish in Canfield
- Safe Environment Compliance Reminder for Music Ministers – No child, young person, or vulnerable adult is permitted to interact with a music minister that is not safe environment compliant.
- Ministry Day Rescheduled to February 20, 2027 – Ministry Day has been rescheduled to Saturday, February 20, 2027 at Saint Michael Parish in Canfield
- 2026-2027 DOY Catholic Schools Calendar Available – The Office of Catholic Schools has published the calendar for the 2026-2027 school year.
BULLETIN/PUBLICITY
Office of Pro-Life, Marriage & Family Ministry (Bulletin Materials)**
May Bulletin Announcements:
-World Children’s Day
-LIMEX Group Forming Soon
-Free Books at Diocesan Library
-New Adult Learning Opportunities Begin Son
BULLETIN/PUBLICITY
Office of Faith Formation and Lay Ecclesial Ministry (Bulletin Materials)**
Project Rachel Lenten May/Mother’s Day Message for Bulletin/Newsletter
If you are a mother 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/.
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, May 10th at 6:30pm for a recital by Mario Buchanan. A free will offering directly goes toward the Cathedral and Diocesan Music program. Please give generously!
See flier for additional dates:
PARISH BULLETINS/PUBLICITY
Office of Catholic Schools: New EdChoice Brochure (Bulletin Materials)**
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
Honoring Mothers Prayer Service on May 11th (Bulletin Materials)** -NEW
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.
- May 2024 Shared Publicity Folder https://bit.ly/may2024sharedoy
- June 2024 Shared Publicity Folder https://bit.ly/june2024sharedoy
- July 2024 Shared Publicity Folder https://bit.ly/july2024sharedoy
