Our Mission and Vision
The Office of Faith Formation and Lay Ecclesial Ministry provides resources, consultation, and networking for catechetical and evangelization ministries, as well as recruiting, supporting, and overseeing lay ecclesial ministers in all areas of parish life.
Catechesis, a ministry of the Word essential in the process of evangelization, matures initial conversion into a living, conscious, and fruitful confession of faith. The principal goal is the catechesis of adults, the primary form of catechesis to which all other forms are oriented. This catechesis is a lifelong process of formation in faith, hope and charity that shapes the mind, touches the heart, and leads persons to embrace Christ fully and completely. The Office strives primarily to enable adults to fulfill their responsibility and privilege to share this faith with other adults, youth, and children.
“Lay ecclesial ministry” is a general term for a variety of positions held by non-ordained people who provide substantial leadership in pastoral, catechetical, liturgical, and musical ministry. Such lay leaders collaborate with and are under the authority of priests and the bishop.
In 2022, the office was renamed Office of Faith Formation and Lay Ecclesial Ministry to more intentionally include a process for appropriate personal, spiritual, intellectual, and pastoral formation and ongoing support of those entrusted with such ministries. This focus aligns with Bishop Bonnar’s vision for a people- and mission-oriented Church.
About Lay Ecclesial Ministry
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 Margie Hynes for assistance in discerning academic and experiential qualifications with a possible path toward meaningful and life giving discipleship.
Resources for Lifelong Learning
Courses & Certification
DIOCESAN LIBRARY
To borrow these or other resources, the diocesan library and Office of Faith Formation and Lay Ecclesial Ministry are open for in person visits and consultations 8:00 am to 4:00 pm Monday through Friday at 144 West Wood St, Youngstown, OH 44503. You may also visit our website 24/7 at https://doylib.follettdestiny.com. Once you make your selections, you can email the request to mhynes@youngstowndiocese.org. We can arrange for your visit, a curbside pick up or direct mailing to your parish.
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.
Announcements & Resources
In-Service on February 10 regarding Mental Health for Parish Ministers
In-Service Day for Parish Ministers regarding Mental Health will take place in Niles on February 10, 2026.
Welcome to Catechesis: Introduction to the Church’s Vision of Catechesis
Welcome to Catechesis:
A Four-Session Online Introduction to the Church’s Vision of Catechesis
from NCCL
Upcoming Training for Level 1 Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
St. Paul in North Canton will host Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Level 1 (ages 3 – 6) training in June
Save the Date: Ministry Day 2026 on Saturday, October 17
Save the Date: Ministry Day 2026 on Saturday, October 17. Check for updates as the event being planned over this next year!
Lifelong Learning: NEW Courses For Adults in February 2026
All adult faith formation courses are open to anyone wanting to grow in their faith. The courses are offered online and in-person.
Save the Date: Ministry Day 2026 on Saturday, October 17
Save the Date: Ministry Day 2026 on Saturday, October 17. Check for updates as the event being planned over this next year!
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.
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.
Are you considering preparation for ministry as a Lay Person? (Bulletin Materials) – Update
If you have ever wondered about becoming prepared for a parish ministry position, please contact Margie Hynes or Cindee Case for assistance in discerning academic and experiential qualifications with a possible path toward meaningful and life-giving ministry.
