Vicar for Clergy
The Vicar for Clergy is responsible for all matters pertaining to clergy. These include assignments, retirements, serving outside the diocese, leave of absences or sick leave. The Vicar of Clergy serves the bishop in his relationships to the priests of the diocese. The Executive Director assists in the administration of the retired priests program and policy and attends to the needs of senior priests. He also works with the Diocese to complete the processes of Clergy being incardinated into or excardinated from.
Offices under the direction of the Vicar for Clergy include Continuing Formation of Clergy, Priest Personnel, Permanent Diaconate, Vocations and Vowed Religious.
For More Information, Contact:
Rev. Michael Balash
Vicar For Clergy & Religious
To request a letter of suitability
(Priests/Deacons/Seminarians only):
Director of Continuing Formation
The Director of Continuing Formation of clergy presents opportunities for clergy to develop holistically. He offers opportunities to celebrate and develop together, and affirms and encourages clergy to continue to grow in their ministry. The office provides opportunities such as the diocesan celebration of ordination anniversaries, days of recollection, retreats and convocations.
Announcements
Jubilee Year 2025 – Pilgrims of Hope
In the Diocese of Youngstown the Opening Mass for the Jubilee Year will be held on Sunday, December 29, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. at Saint Columba Cathedral.
Deacon Morning of Reflection
A Morning of Reflection for Deacons will be held on Saturday, October 26, 2024 at 10:00 a.m.
Priest Advent Day of Recollection
An Advent Day of Recollection for Priests will be held on Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at 2:00 p.m.
Priest Policy Handbook
Bishop Bonnar has promulgated the revised Priest Policy Handbook.
Stay Informed on Legislation from the Catholic Conference of Ohio (CCO)
The Ohio Catholic Conference acts as the official voice of the Catholic Church in Ohio, providing monthly newsletters that summarize key legislation and action alerts to empower Catholics in upholding the Church’s beliefs and values.
Resources
Letters of Suitability Required – Request Now Online
Letters of suitability are to be sent from one bishop/superior to another. An electronic form is now available online for diocesan priests to request a letter of suitability from Bishop Bonnar.
Catholic Leadership Institute Update
All parishes will receive resources to develop their pastoral plans. This list of parishes have been selected to participate in either the intensive or virtual tracks with Catholic Leadership Institute.
