eNOTES FOR APRIL 29, 2025
(WITH BULLETIN INFORMATION FOR THE WEEKENDS OF MAY 11 and 18, 2025)
JUMP TO: NEW DIOCESAN POSTS-NEW PARISH POSTS - REGULAR FEATURES - PREVIOUSLY POSTED - LINKS - ABOUT
HIGHLIGHTS:
NEW
CATHOLIC CHARITIES MOTHER’S DAY APPEAL: May 11, 2025
The 2025 Catholic Charities Mother’s Day Appeal will be held in our parishes on the Weekend of May 10 and 11. Your past support of this has helped us to respond to critical needs and to be a shining light and a beacon of hope to the most vulnerable members of our North Country communities. May is the month of renewal, and under the dedicated leadership of Father Scott Seymour, Catholic Charities is renewing its 106-year commitment in the midst of these challenging times. Your financial support will have a long and lasting impact and make a significant difference on the work ahead. In this Jubilee Year of Hope, we are reminded that we are all pilgrims on a journey, and we do not journey alone. Catholic Charities is there to share the journey. Your generous support of this year’s Mother’s Day Appeal will help us to be that beacon of light and hope for others throughout our diocese.
Click to download Bishop LaValley's letter
Click to download Bulletin Announcements and Prayers of the Faithful in PDF or WORD DOC
CLICK IMAGE TO DOWNLOAD FLYER
JEFFERSON-LEWIS COMMISSIONED LAY MINISTER GATHERING: Watertown
The Commissioned Lay Ministry Association of the Jefferson-Lewis Deanery Presents:
Living Stones: “Jubilee Year- Rediscover Hope”
When: Thursday, May 8
Where: St. Anthony’s Church, Watertown
Time:Welcoming Remarks 5:15 p.m.- Mass at 5:30 p.m., Dinner Immediately Following & Concluding with the Program.
Cost: $ 10 per person if attending dinner, no charge if registering for the program only.
Mass will be followed by dinner and the evening will conclude with our program led by Father Garry Giroux.
His presentation “...As We Await the Blessed Hope…”
Register: https://www.rcdony.org/clm-event
NEW POSTS
NEW FROM THE DIOCESAN OFFICES:
NEW
WORLD DAY OF PRAYER FOR VOCATIONS:
World Day of Prayer will be observed on Sunday, May 11, also known as "Good Shepherd Sunday." The purpose of this day is to publicly fulfill the Lord's instruction to, "Pray the Lord of the harvest to send laborers into his harvest" (Mt 9:38; Lk 10:2). Please pray that young men and women hear and respond generously to the Lord's call to the priesthood, diaconate, religious life, consecrated virginity, societies of apostolic life or secular institutes to continue service to the People of God in the North Country. For more information, please contact Rev. Christopher Carrara, Director of Vocations or Sister Mary Eamon Lyng, SSJ, Vocation Coordinator, Diocese of Ogdensburg, 315-393-2920.
Contact for More Information: Sister Mary Eamon Lyng Email: elyng@rcdony.org
NEW
CATHOLIC HOME MISSIONS APPEAL: May 24-25 second collection
Help spread the word about the Catholic Home Mission Appeal on May 24 and 25. Download bulletin announcements and other resources as a PDF file or a WORD document
Contact for More Information: Deacon Jim Crowley Phone Number: 315-393-2920, Email: jcrowley@rcdony.org
CLICK IMAGE TO DOWNLOAD FLYER
NEW FLYER and IMAGE for Bulletins
THE LOOK AND FEEL AND SOUND OF HOPE: Attention Visual Artists, Singers and Musicians
Recognizing sacred music’s ability to foster Hope, and desiring an opportunity for musicians throughout the diocese to come together for a communal expression of hope and prayer, the Diocese of Ogdensburg will host an arts festival, "The Look, Feel, & Sound of Hope,” on August 24 starting at 3 p.m. at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church in Saranac Lake. The event is part of the diocese’s 2025 Jubilee Year Celebration and aims to bring a greater share of hope and prayer to our lives, our communities and our world.
Click to download image for bulletin
Artists and musicians, for details how to participate in this festival, see https://www.rcdony.org/soundofhope. Deadline for Artists and Musicians to register their interest May 30.
NEW PARISH EVENTS AND NOTIFICATIONS:
NEW
ST. ANN'S 7TH ANNUAL CAR SHOW: Festival of Cars, Mooers Forks
Sunday, June 1
11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Craft Fair, Theme Baskets Raffle, Food & Entertainment.
Kids Power Wheels Show Entry Fee $10;
Hot Wheel Races Kids fee $5 & Adults fee $ 10;
Top 40 Picks and Special Awards at 3 p.m.
Vehicle Pre-Register $15 or $20 Day of the Show between 11 a.m. & 1 p.m.
Craft Table $20
Hamburgers, Hot Dogs, Cheeseburgers, Sausage, Slaw Dogs, French Fries, Poutine, Drinks
St. Ann's Grounds, 24 Town Hall Rd, Mooers Forks
Contact for More Information: Don Parras Phone Number: 518-236-7200 or 518-565-6754
NEW
UNDERSTANDING AND WELCOMING THOSE WITH MENTAL ILLNESS INTO OUR FAITH COMMUNITIES: Plattsburgh
SUNDAY, MAY 4, 2025
PLATTSBURGH UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, PLATTSBURGH
1-3 p.m.
This is a free event.
Sponsored by the Interfaith Council of Plattsburgh, Clinton County and NAMI Champlain Valley.
Contact for More Information: MARY SKILLAN Email: mskillan30@gmail.com
CLICK IMAGE TO DOWNLOAD LETTER
NEW
NORTH COUNTRY MISSION OF HOPE: Domestic Mission opportunity
The North Country Mission of Hope is offering a domestic mission opportunity for anyone 14 years and older from August 9-15. The mission will take place in the Appalachian Region of Southeast Kentucky. Please contact Deacon James Carlin for more information, costs and an application. The deadline for application is May 30.
Contact for More Information: Deacon James Carlin Email: jpcarlin1963@gmail.com
CLICK IMAGE TO DOWNLOAD FLYER
NEW
ANNUAL HEALING MASS: St. Mary's Church, Clayton
Come to St. Mary’s Church in Clayton for the Annual Healing Mass, St. Mary’s is designated as a Pilgrimage Site for the Jubilee Year of Hope, receive the Jubilee plenary indulgence through pilgrimage and prayer.
Date: June 14, Time: 11 a.m., Location: St. Mary’s Church, 521 James Street, Clayton.
The Sacrament of the Sick will be offered during Mass, after the Mass, prayer teams will be available for individual needs, and a reception will follow in the Parish Center.
Contact for More Information: Parish Office Email: claytonsec@rcdony.org Phone Number: 315-686-3398
CLICK IMAGE TO DOWNLOAD FLYER
NEW
SUMMER GALA & RAFFLE: St. Mary's Church, Clayton
St. Mary's Church in Clayton is holding its annual Summer Gala & Raffle. First Prize is $10,000, Second through Fifth Prizes are $500. $100 Early Bird Prize for tickets purchased on or before July 3. Winners need not be present to win. The Gala dinner event is at the Cerow Arena in Clayton on Tuesday, August 5, 5:30-10 p.m. Tickets are $100 and include dinner for 2, hors d'ouvres, 2 coupons for 1 drink each, coffee, and dessert. (Sorry no take-outs.) Tickets available after St. Mary's Masses or at the parish office at 521 James Street, Clayton. For more info, contact the parish office at 315-686-3398.
Contact for More Information: St. Mary's parish office Email: claytonsec@rcdony.org Phone Number: 315-686-3398
No other new parish events were submitted. Please check your parish bulletins and previously posted submissions below.
FROM NEIGHBORING DIOCESES:
CLICK IMAGE TO DOWNLOAD FLYER
NEW
NOTRE DAME RETREAT CENTER EVENTS: Canandaigua, NY
Notre Dame Retreat Center in Canandaigua is offering a variety of retreats and community events. The mission at Notre Dame Retreat House is to provide space and time for spiritual formation and to awaken the spirit within. Now run by a volunteer Board of Directors, Notre Dame was founded in 1967 by the Redemptorist Fathers and remains true to their charism of preaching the good news of plentiful redemption - that Jesus loves us and knows us by name. This "Piece of Heaven on Top of the Hill" overlooks beautiful Canandaigua Lake and is nestled on 50 beautifully landscaped acres. For more information about the upcoming retreats and events see https://notredameretreat.org/
REGULAR FEATURES:
NEW
SAFE ENVIRONMENT CORNER (for May 4 and 11)
Did You Know…child abuse and neglect include all types of abuse and neglect of a child under the age of 18 by a parent, caregiver, or another person in a custodial role that results in harm, the potential for harm, or threat of harm to a child. The four common types of abuse and neglect are physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse (harming a child’s self-worth or emotional well-being, and neglect (failing to meet a child’s basic physical and emotional needs. For more information, contact the Safe Environment Office at (315) 393-2920.
NEW
PLANNED GIVING:
Make a Will - Good Christian Stewardship would call for the orderly disposition of our worldly goods. If you do not make a Will, the State will do so and it may not be according to your wishes. Scott Lalone, Executive Director of Development/Foundation at the Diocese of Ogdensburg at 315-393-2920 or slalone@rcdony.org.
NEW
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP:
for the May 11 Bulletin
Water is God’s gift. God of Creation, I pray not to take my access to water for granted. Remind me to use only what I need and be mindful to choose products for use in home and outdoors that do not contaminate this precious gift.
NEW
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP:
for the May 18 Bulletin
Pope Paul VI (1972) “Our generation must energetically accept the challenge of going beyond partial and immediate aims to prepare a hospitable earth for future generations.” What act can I do today to respond to Pope Paul VI’s challenge?
PREVIOUSLY POSTED:
ANNUAL RUMMAGE SALE: Constableville
St. Mary’s on James Street in Constableville will once again be hosting its annual rummage sale on the first weekend of May. It ‘ll be one weekend only! Friday, May 2, the sale will open from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. for early bird shoppers. The main sale will be on Saturday, May 3 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Then it will wrap up with a bag sale after 10 a.m. Mass on Sunday, May 4. Like previous years, we will be collecting gently used clothes/shoes, toys, household items, sports gear, holiday decorations, etc. As you do your spring cleaning consider donating those items to St. Mary’s. Funds from this sale are used for the yearly heating costs of the church, parish house and hall. Donations may be left on the ramp of the hall from now until the day of the sale.
Contact for More Information: Jean Lieber Email: portleydenbk@rcdony.org
SETON CATHOLIC: "Run for the Roses" Gala Event All are welcome
Join us this May 3 for our annual Gala for Seton Catholic with Live Auctions , Experience made baskets/Mystery items for Concerts and Baseball team tickets. So much more as the school host a Fund a Need event for the Drama and Arts Departments. Located at the West Side Ballroom come dressed in your best Derby Attire. Dinner and dancing included. $80 a person or see Susan Pellerin for sponsoring a table. Come join the fun at 5 p.m. on May 3.
Contact for More Information: Susan Pellerin Email: spellerin@setonknights.org
SPAGHETTI & MEATBALL DINNER: Fundraiser Spaghetti Dinner for Knights of Columbus, Evans Mills
Spaghetti & Meatball Dinner, Saturday, May 3, serving from 4 to 7 p.m. St. Mary's Parish Center, Evans Mills. Adults $9, senior citizens $8, $5 for children under 12, and those under 5 eat for free.
Contact for More Information: Parish Office Phone Number: 315-629-4678
CLICK IMAGE TO DOWNLOAD FLYER
THE RESCUE PROJECT: Starts Wednesday, May 14
Have you ever wondered Why there is something rather that nothing? Why is the world so obviously messed up? What if anything has God done about it? And how should I respond?
Join us for a 9-week experience to discover how AWESOME the Good News that is the Gospel really is! Come and hear the Gospel in a new and compelling way: How God CREATED everything good and how we were CAPTURED. How Jesus came and RESCUED us and how we can RESPOND to this amazingly Hope-filled GOOD NEWS!
WHEN: Starts Wednesday, May 14 at 6 p.m. and continues for 9 weeks.
WHERE: St. Mary Parish Hall, 769 Gale Road (across from the School Bus Garage), Brushton
TO REGISTER and for more information: www.rcdony.org/rescue
Each Session consists of a video, a short snack break and small group discussion facilitated by Deacon Lee Trudeau and Marika Donders.
Participant guides will be provided. A $10 donation to cover the cost of the books would be appreciated, but is not required.
For more information: contact Marika Donders at mdonders@rcdony.org
CLICK IMAGE TO DOWNLOAD FLYER
LIFE-GIVING WOUNDS RETREAT: A healing Retreat for Adult Children of Divorce or Separation
The Life-Giving Wounds Retreat, offered May 16-18 at the Good News Center in Utica, NY, is for adults looking for healing from their parents' separation or divorce. The retreat is cosponsored by the Dioceses of Ogdensburg and Syracuse. The cost of the retreat is $100-$150 per person (shared room or single room). Scholarships are available. To register, please go to https://LGWsyr.eventbrite.com. If you have any questions, please direct them to:
Diocese of Syracuse: Erin Miller at emiller@syrodio.org or 315-472-6754 opt. 1
Diocese of Ogdensburg: Steve Tartaglia at startaglia@rcdony.org or 315-393-2920
THE COMMISSIONED LAY MINISTRY RETREAT AT WADHAMS HALL
All Commissioned Lay Ministers and Candidates are invited to register for the retreat to be held May 2-4 at Wadhams Hall. Register at www.rcdony.org/ffmretreat
Contact for More Information: Cathy Russell Email and or Phone Number: crussell@rcdony.org
CLICK IMAGE TO DOWNLOAD FLYER
PRIESTHOOD DISCERNMENT: updated schedule
Discernment is a call, listen with others. It is a journey of faith, traveling with companions. Are you a single Catholic man, of high school age or older, who is hearing the Lord’s call to the Priesthood? You are invited to join fellow discerners and Father Howard Venette for the following gatherings from
10 a.m.-1 p.m. Lunch will be provided.
To attend a session with Father Venette, please register on-line at https://www.rcdony.org/priesthooddiscernment.
St. Mary’s Church, Canton March 22, May 3
For more information, contact Father Howard Venette at hvenette@rcdony.org.
CLICK IMAGE TO DOWNLOAD FLYER
SURVIVING DIVORCE: Support group for separated and divorced adults (Plattsburgh)
If you are separated or divorced and looking for hope and healing, please consider joining us for the Surviving Divorce Program. We are now accepting registrations for sessions held at St. John XXIII Newman Center Parish, 90 Broad St., Plattsburg. The sessions will be held Tuesdays at 6 p.m. beginning May 13th. To register go to https://www.rcdony.org/survivingdivorce. For more information or help with registering, please contact Steve Tartaglia at 315-393-2920. We ask a $25 donation to cover the cost of materials.
Contact for More Information: Steve Tartaglia Email: startaglia@rcdony.orgPhone Number: 315-393-2920
CLICK IMAGE TO DOWNLOAD FLYER
GUGGENHEIM CENTER CLEAN UP WEEKEND: Help wanted!
May 16 and 17 is the Guggenheim Center Clean-up Weekend! If you can give an hour or a day, how about pitching in?
Contact for More Information: Deacon Jim Crowley Email:jcrowley@rcdony.org Phone Number: 315-393-2920
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH FOUNDATION: Grant Application Cycle Now Open
In the spirit of its charism, the Sisters of St. Joseph Foundation supports initiatives that foster service to the 'dear neighbor.' Its goal is to assist in developing leadership and advancing initiatives related to the corporal and spiritual works of mercy in diocesan, parish and church related programs in the North Country. Applicants must be active in a leadership role in a diocesan parish or established program or be in training for such leadership and be sponsored by the director of the program. Applications may be submitted February 14 through May 16, 2025. Grants are a maximum of $4,000. Recipients will be notified in June. Applications may be obtained by contacting Sister Ellen Rose Coughlin, SSJ at 315-778-9679 or by email at SSJFoundationChairperson@gmail.com
Contact for More Information: Sister Ellen Rose Coughlin, SSJ
Email and or Phone Number:315-778-9679 or by email at SSJFoundationChairperson@gmail.com
GRANT FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITES: For Pastors
The Diocese of Ogdensburg annually offers two grants of $5,000.00 each to assist the parishes and institutions of the Diocese in providing assistance for people with disabilities.
These funds are made available from the annual contribution of the New York State Knights of Columbus to the Diocese of Ogdensburg. They will be distributed by the diocese on the recommendations of Catholic Charities and the Department of Education.
The criteria for acceptability of the request cover several factors. Improvement in already existing programs or facilities will be considered. Some ideas for funding include adapting facilities, special equipment, training for personnel, and program development.
It is important to remember that programs which have received funding previously may not apply for the grant for the following three years. Programs/projects must show proof of additional sources of revenue to support the programs/projects.
If you wish to be considered for a grant, please plan your proposal carefully. Download the Grant Application HERE.
Applications must be submitted by May 16, 2025. Monies will be allocated by mid-June 2025.
If you have any questions regarding the grant and/or the application, please contact vlalonde@rcdony.org or call (315) 393-2920 ext. 1411.
.png)
CLICK IMAGE TO DOWNLOAD FLYER
RACHEL'S VINEYARD: After-Abortion Healing Retreat
If you are suffering after an abortion, you're not alone. Join others on a weekend retreat of hope and healing at the Guggenheim Lodge in Saranac Lake, May 23-25. Contact Colleen 518-524-0774 or register online: rcdony.org/pro-life/rv-retreat
Contact for More Information: Respect Life Office Email and or Phone Number: cminer@rcdony.org
ORDINATION TO THE ORDER OF THE DIACONATE
Through the laying on of hands and the invocation of the Holy Spirit, the Most Reverend Terry R. LaValley, Bishop of Ogdensburg, will Ordain to the Order of Deacon Mr. Michelet Boncoeur, Mr. Tyler Martin Fitzgerald and Mr. Dennis Mamwaha Ombongi.
You are cordially invited to join in the Ordination Liturgy on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Sacred Heart Church, 212 Main Street, Massena, New York 13662.
A reception will immediately follow the Liturgy at Trinity Catholic School, 188 Main Street, Massena, NY 13662. The Ordination Mass may be viewed at www.rcdony.org/ordination. The Ordination Mass program will be available at the same link shortly before the Liturgy.
Contact for More Information: Renee Grizzuto Email: rgrizzuto@rcdony.org
MATER DEI FOUNDATION- SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITY: Attention High School Seniors
The Mater Dei College Foundation is pleased to offer a scholarship opportunity to actively participating Catholics who are currently in their senior year of high school and who currently reside in the Diocese of Ogdensburg and are planning to attend a degree granting college or university in the fall. To request an application form, please email Valerie Mathews, Mater Dei Foundation Scholarship Chair at vmathews@rcdony.org. Application deadline is June 1, 2025.
CLICK IMAGE TO DOWNLOAD FLYER
(Please note: Printed flyers are being distributed to Parishes.)
CAMP GUGGENHEIM REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN!: Attention all families!
Description: Are you ready for the best week of summer you'll ever have? Log on to www.rcdony.org/youth/camp to register for the 2025 summer camp season! Each week is only $425, and scholarships are available. Don't miss this opportunity to grow in your faith while enjoying a full camp experience in beautiful Saranac Lake! To inquire about financial aid please email Jeannie Grizzuto at jgrizzuto@rcdony.org
Session 1 - (11 - 14 yrs old) - July 6 to July 11
Session 2 - (12-15 yrs old) - July 13 to July 18
Session 3 - (12-15 yrs old) - July 20 to July 25
Session 4 - (12-15 yrs old) - July 27 to August 1
Session 5 - (16-18 yrs old) - August 3 to August 8
QR Code (click image to download)
Contact for More Information: Jeannie Grizzuto at jgrizzuto@rcdony.org
FAMILY GUGGENHEIM: Registration is open
Family Guggenheim welcomes families to come enjoy a special weekend in the beauty of the Adirondacks. Expect fun family workshops and activities that will have you working and laughing together. Celebrate Christ’s presence in your lives through liturgy and special prayer services. Take time for great outdoor activities like paddle boat rides, beach volleyball and hiking. You are never too young or too old to enjoy being family at Camp Guggenheim!
Session 1: August 14-17, 2025
Session 2: August 21-24, 2025
Session 3: October 10-12, 2025
Registration is open now at https://www.rcdony.org/fg
Financial assistance is available.
For more information, contact Steve Tartaglia at 315-393-2920 or startaglia@rcdony.org.
Updated phone number
HEART WELL HOMESTEAD’s GOLF TOURNAMENT: SAVE THE DATE
Heart Well Homestead’s 2nd Annual Golf Tournament!
August 22. 2025
The Barracks Golf Course
Details to follow at Https://www.HeartWellHomestead.org, Facebook and Instagram
Contact for More Information: Janice Tobin Email and Phone Number: HeartWellHomestead@gmail.com 518-569-5370
CLICK IMAGE TO DOWNLOAD FLYER
WOMENS HEALING RETREAT: From Eve to Mary, A Journey of Hope and Healing
The Our Lady of the Rosary Healing Retreat Committee is once again offering a retreat:
From Eve to Mary, A Journey of Hope and Healing
October 9 – 12, 2025
Wadhams Hall
Ogdensburg, New York 13669
Presenters:
Father Michael Jablonski and Father Douglas Schirmer
Cost:
$275.00 includes accommodations and meals
To register and for more information:
https://www.rcdony.org/ourlady
PILGRIMAGE TO ITALY WITH FATHER AMYOT: Celebrate the Jubilee Year
Celebrate the Year of Faith PILGRIMAGE TO ITALY
Hosted by Father Andrew Amyot Visiting: Venice • Florence • Assisi • Rome
Only $4,599 from Montreal 11 Days - November 5-15, 2025 (Air/land price is $3,949 plus $650 government taxes/airline surcharges) The Opportunity to pass through the Holy Doors of the Basilica of St. Peter in Vatican City & the other 3 Major Basilicas.
For a brochure and more information contact: Father Andrew Amyot at (315) 384-6028 or mail: P.O. Box 637 Norfolk, NY 13667, e-mail: fraamyot2@gmail.com Space is limited! Call today!
PILGRIMAGE TO THE SHRINES OF FRANCE
11 Days: November 10-20, 2025
Lourdes * Nevers * Tours * Loire Valley * Chartres *Mont St. Michel * Bayeux * Normandy * Caen * Lisieux * Paris
Hosted by: Father Donald A. Robinson
$3,999 from New York (air/land tour price is $3,449 plus $550 government taxes/airline surcharges
Contact for More Information: Father Robinson Email/Phone Number: donrob4@twcny.rr.com / (315) 408-0858
Office of Worship: Worship Notes Summer 2024
Office of Vocations Bulletin Blurbs, Cycle C
Office of Evangelization Bulletin Blurbs Cycle C
Office of Vocations Newsletters
ABOUT:
eNOTES is a biweekly diocesan newsletter which is sent to the following distribution lists: all priests, diocesan staff, deacons, deacon candidates, bookkeepers and secretaries, catechetical leaders, principals, commissioned lay ministers, diocesan finance council, diocesan pastoral council, and pastoral associates and seminarians. Others can subscribe on the eNotes webpage at www.rcdony.org/enotes.
The next submission deadline is Sunday, May 11 for the May 13, 2025 edition of eNotes with bulletin information for the weekends of May 25 and June 1, 2025. The link to the submission form can also be found in the menu on the eNotes page (www.rcdony.org/enotes). We welcome suggestions for improvements to newsletter. Suggestions can be sent via email to enotes@rcdony.org .