eNOTES FOR JUNE 24, 2025
(WITH BULLETIN INFORMATION FOR THE WEEKENDS OF JULY 6 and 13, 2025)
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CALLING ALL ARTISTS AND MUSICIANS: Submit your art, register to sing and play!
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.
We are looking for visual and/or tactile art that express the theme of HOPE. These works do not have to be overtly religious, but must represent the Look, Feel and Sound of Hope.
For musicians from around the diocese, there are three ways to participate in this initiative: as a member of the Diocesan Choir, as a Soloist/part of a chamber music group, and/or the Invitational Diocesan Schola Select Choir.
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 has been extended to JUNE 30.
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NEW FROM THE DIOCESAN OFFICES:
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WALK & TALK: A Young Adult Encounter
All Young Adults (aged 18 ~ 35ish) are invited to an informal gathering and hike at Indian Creek Nature Center. We will meet at 11 a.m. at the main entrance of the Nature Center (770 County Route 14, Rensselaer Falls) and decide on the trail to follow as a group. Depending on the weather, the terrain and roads could be muddy, so please plan accordingly. Please bring a bagged lunch.
For more information and to let us know that you are planning joining us, contact Alexis Michael at alexismichael198@proton.me or Marika Donders at mdonders@rcdony.org
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NFP AWARENESS WEEK JULY 20-26, 2025
NFP Awareness Week, an annual educational campaign of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, invites everyone to discover God's wise design for sexuality and married love. The Natural Family Planning Office sends posters and educational materials to all parishes; additional copies are available upon request.
PASTORS and HOMILISTS: Click these links for homily notes following the Lectionary for July 20-26: Homily Notes for Sunday July 20, 2025 and Homily Notes for Daily Masses July 21-26, 2025. Inclusion of the NFP Week intentions in the Prayers of the Faithful will be appreciated. A sample Prayer of the Faithful: “We pray that all may cherish human life, especially the gift of children, who are our hope for the future.” Additional options may be found at NFP Week Petitions.
For the Parish Bulletin:
PURSUE A LASTING LOVE...MARRIAGE: HOPE FOR THE FUTURE. This theme, chosen for the USCCB's NFP Awareness Week 2025, highlights the connection between the vocation of marriage and the virtue of hope. According to Pope Francis, "Looking to the future with hope also entails having enthusiasm for life and a readiness to share it...Openness to life and responsible parenthood is the design that the Creator has implanted in the hearts and bodies of men and women, a mission that the Lord has entrusted to spouses and to their love." Alone among family planning methods, NFP honors this design of the Creator. To hear couples witness to the blessings of NFP, go to www.rcdony.org/nfp. To learn more, please contact the NFP Office, apietropaoli@rcdony.org or at 518-483-0459.
Contact for More Information: Angelo & Suzanne Pietropaoli, Phone Number: 518-483-0459 Email: apietropaoli@rcdony.org
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MISSION PROJECTS OF THE DIOCESE OF OGDENSBURG
The Mission Projects of the Diocese of Ogdensburg will be held this year on the West side of the diocese on the weekend of July 26-27. Funds raised support The Diocese of Latakia, the Latin America Appeal, and San Martin de Porres in Peru, as well as assist with immigration for our foreign clergy and the diocese' evangelization efforts. Every little bit helps!
Contact for More Information: Alexis Michael Email: amichael@rcdony.org
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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. Gordon J. Burdo, Jr., Mr. James B. Kavanaugh, Mr. James P. Law, Mr. Francis E. Sczerzenie, Mr. Garry Stevens and Mr. Nicholas A. Tsibulsky.
You are cordially invited to join in the Ordination Liturgy on Saturday, August 9, at 11 a.m. at St. Mary’s Cathedral.
A Reception will immediately follow at the Martin Field Club (formerly the Knights of Columbus Hall), 721 Hasbrouck Street, Ogdensburg, NY 13669. 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 Ordination.
Contact for More Information: Renee Grizzuto Email: rgrizzuto@rcdony.org Phone Number: (315) 605-1093
PILGRIMAGE TO FRANCE: With Fr. Bryan Stitt and Claire Couche
September 28 - October 8, 2025
Join Father Bryan Stitt and Claire Couche of “Finding Philothea” on a pilgrimage to France in this Jubilee Year! This 11-day trip will include visits to Lisieux, Normandy Beach, Mont St. Michel, Paris, Lourdes, and more! Cost is $4,995.00 - Land and Air (from New York JFK) - $4,095.00 Land Only
For more information from Select International Tours, call 800- 842-4842 or email Rebecca@select-intl.com
Contact for More Information: Sarah McIntosh Email cantonsec@rcdony.org Phone Number: 315-386-2543
NEW PARISH EVENTS AND NOTIFICATIONS:
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SACRED HEART INDOOR YARD SALE: Something for Everyone!! (Chazy, NY)
Sacred Heart Parish in Chazy (31 Church Street, Chazy) is having their Indoor Yard Sale on Saturday, July 26, from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. You won't want to miss this. We have furniture, appliances, household items, toys, books, games, knick knacks, dishes, collectibles, tools, gardening, holiday, baby items and much, much more! We also have concessions. For more information, contact the rectory 518-846-7650.
Contact for More Information: Noreen Barcomb Email: Chazypa@rcdony.org Phone: 518-846-7650.
No other new parish events were submitted. Please check your parish bulletins and previously posted submissions below.
REGULAR FEATURES:
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SAFE ENVIRONMENT CORNER (for July 6 and 13)
Did You Know…the impact of abuse can lead to long-term physical, emotional, and psychological challenges, including mental health issues, substance abuse, and chronic illnesses. For more information or to register for a VIRTUS training class, contact the Safe Environment Office at (315) 393-2920.
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PLANNED GIVING:
MEMORARE LEGACY SOCIETY: Have you already or have you been thinking about leaving a legacy by designating a portion of your assets to pass at death to the Diocese of Ogdensburg, your parish or school or diocesan program or organization? The Memorare Legacy Society honors and recognizes the generosity and vision of those who have chosen to leave a legacy to the Diocese of Ogdensburg through estate or deferred gifts. Members of this society are those who have informed the Diocese of a planned gift that, in the future, will benefit the Diocese of Ogdensburg or any of its parishes or programs. This ensures a continuous commitment of care to their Church, to the Church’s vision and to the charitable works that flow from her missions through their thoughtful planned gift. For more information on the Memorare Legacy Society, contact: Scott Lalone, Executive Director, Development Office 393-2920, slalone@rcdony.org.
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ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP:
for the July 6 Bulletin
"Living our vocation to be protectors of God’s handiwork is essential to a life of virtue." — Laudato Si’, 217
As summer’s skies unfold and days are longer, farmers’ markets and gardens across our diocese have come to life with vibrant booths and tents, the hum of community, and the scent of fresh veggies, herbs, and earth. This is the perfect season to consider how our food choices reflect our Catholic values — particularly our call to care for creation and promote justice. One important way to live out these values is by choosing organic foods, whether by growing them ourselves or by supporting local farmers who grow their produce and animal by-products of dairy and eggs, with respect for God's creation. (From: Nourishing Creation: A Spiritual Look at Organic Food and Local Choices By Geraldine Wagner)
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ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP:
for the July 13 Bulletin
Growing Organic: A Spiritual and Earth-Friendly Practice
Tending a garden organically is more than a hobby — it is a form of prayer in action. It connects us deeply to the rhythms of nature. Gardening organically avoids synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, focusing instead on natural composting, healthy soil, and biodiversity. Whether we have a garden or a few containers on a balcony, growing herbs, tomatoes, greens, or peppers organically is a hands-on way to care for creation. We can involve children, whether at home, in school or in church, in tending plants, learning patience and stewardship. If your parish has the space, consider starting or supporting a community garden that offers fresh produce to parishioners or local food pantries. (From: Nourishing Creation: A Spiritual Look at Organic Food and Local Choices By Geraldine Wagner)
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POPE LEO XIV PHOTO: Official papal photo for your parish!
Pope Leo XIV photos can be ordered from a number of locations. After a little shopping, it was discovered having a few copies printed at your nearby Walmart or UPS Store was the most cost effective. The Potsdam UPS Store offers excellent service, quality and speed.
Vatican Media offers an official photo at the link below. This image may be reproduced for institutional use. The webpage links to information regarding other uses: https://www.vatican.va/content/vatican/it/special/habemus-papam/habemus-papam-2025/foto-leone-xiv.html.
Contact for More Information: Deacon James Crowley Email: jcrowley@rcdony.org
GUGGENHEIM IS FILLING UP!: Register now to avoid wait lists!
With the arrival of June, we are in our final weeks of preparation for another amazing summer at Camp Guggenheim!
We already have one week that is ALMOST filled and will soon move to a waiting list. If you are planning on attending camp this year, I urge you to register soon to avoid being put on a waiting list and possibly missing out on camp.
We still have scholarship funds available, so if it is the cost of camp that is causing you to delay your registration, go ahead and register now so we can work with you to make camp affordable for your family. We have been blessed with generous donors who want to help you attend camp this year! The scholarship process is easy and confidential.
For more details about camp: https://www.rcdony.org/youth/camp
For registration: https://www.rcdony.org/youth/camp/registration
Contact for More Information: Patrick Looby Email: plooby@rcdony.org
GET READY FOR A GAME CHANGER!: Next Friendship Group Meeting, June 26, 2025
In this game-changing book, "The Hidden Power of Silence" in the Mass, Father Boniface Hicks, O.S.B., reveals how you can actively listen and open yourself to receive God’s personal love for you in the Mass, where our Lord waits to quench your deepest longing and heal your wounds. Drawing from the wisdom of the saints, modern-day spiritual giants and his own penetrating reflections, you will learn how to quiet your mind, stretch your heart, and become childlike in the sense of experiencing the sacred mysteries with wonder and awe.
Join us on Thursday, June 26, at 7 p.m. via Zoom when Father Bill Neubecker, OMV will help us more deeply absorb the endless blessings of the Mass and answer your questions. We will discuss the introduction and first two chapters at this meeting.
To order the book, please visit sophiainstitute.com and enter Friendship25 at the checkout to receive a 25% off discount.
To sign-up for the Friendship Group, receive the meeting link and discussion questions, go to https://mailchi.mp/sophiainstitute/friendship-groups
Questions? Contact Mary Beth Bracy at mbracy@sophiainstitute.com
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107TH MOUNT CARMEL FEAST: June 27, 28 &29 at St. Anthony's Church, Watertown
Italian Food, Rides, Games and Raffles
Grounds at St. Anthony Church, 850 Arsenal Street in Watertown:
Friday, June 27: 5-10 p.m, with Bingo at 7 p.m.
Saturday, June 28: 1-10 p.m.
Sunday, June 29: 1-10 p.m. with live entertainment from 6-9 p.m., a religious procession at 5 p.m. and fireworks at 9:30 p.m.
Free admission and parking. This is a cash only event.
51ST ANNUAL SAINT JAMES FAIR: A Parish & Catholic School fundraiser (Carthage)
Don't miss the 51st Annual Saint James Fair located on the grounds of Saint James Church on State Street in Carthage, NY!
Thursday 6/26 5-9 p.m.
Friday 6/27 5-9 p.m.
Saturday 6/28 12-9 p.m.
New and exciting entertainment, games & rides as well as our famous foods including: Specialty booth, American booth, Italian booth, Fried dough booth, Ice cream booth, Bob's big burgers and more!
Some things to look forward to:
THURSDAY 6/26
5-6 p.m. DJ Johnny Spezzano Streaming live music from the border 106.7 with their mobile Station Vehicle
6-9 p.m. DJ Tom Ellis with Zapet Vibrations DJ service
Forest City Farm's petting zoo
Ontario Amusement Rides
Unlimited rides from 5-9 p.m. with purchase of $20 Wrist Band
FRIDAY 6/27
5-9 p.m. J & K Karaoke & Entertainment
Reptiles Forever
West Carthage Fire Prevention Trailer
Ontario Amusement Rides
Unlimited rides from 5-9 p.m. with purchase of $20 Wrist Band
SATURDAY 6/28
12-4 p.m. DJ Joe Ablan with Off the Record Entertainment
12-4 p.m. Carthage Fire Department Engine Tours
12-4 p.m. Reptiles Forever
West Carthage Fire Prevention Trailer
Ontario Amusement Rides
Unlimited rides from 12-4 p.m. or from 5-9 p.m. with purchase of $20 Wrist Band
ALL DAYS
Specialty foods
Ice Cream booth
Children's games
Gambling, Wine & Beer Tent
Pull tabs
Jewelry booth
In addition to wrist bands which include unlimited rides for the designated 4 hours, individual ride tickets will also be available.
Entry is FREE
Contact for More Information: Heidi Marshall Phone Number:315-414-1810
UPDATED - change of schedule
BROWNBAG: WHERE THE WORLD MEETS THE CHURCH: A Way to Engage and Evangelize
Join us for a new Brown Bag Virtual Series in 4 Sessions. Father John Riccardo speaks on the HOME as the place where the world meets the Church. We will meet via TEAMS to discuss Father John Riccardo's hour-long talk by breaking it up into 4 sessions.
Session 1: The Need for Engagement
Session 2: A Call to Action
Session 3: A Change of Mindset
Session 4: Some Practical Ideas
There will be two options:
Mondays from noon-1p.m. (July 7, July 14, July 21, July 28. Note the new start and end date).
Or
Thursdays from 7-8 p.m. (July 3, July 10, July 17, July 24)
TO REGISTER: https://www.rcdony.org/brownbag
If you have any questions, contact Marika at mdonders@rcdony.org
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DOVS Raffle:
The Diocese of Ogdensburg Vocation Society (DOVS) is having its only fundraiser, a raffle. Tickets are $5 each. First prize is $500, second is a quilt, third is a birdhouse with stand, fourth is $100 in gift cards. Tickets go on sale June 1st with the drawing July 9th.
Contact for More Information: Cathy Russell Email:crussell@rcdony.org
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HOUSE OF PRAYER SUMMER HOURS JUNE - AUG: ‘Jesus said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest awhile." ' (Mark 6:30)
WEDNESDAYS: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
+ The Contemplative Rosary with Dan Hobbs, Volunteer, from 11:30 .a.m – 12:30 p.m.
THURSDAYS: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
+ Soaking Prayer with Eve McGill, Volunteer, offered the 3rd Thursday from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Next Session: July 17, 2025
Soaking Prayer is surrendering yourself to the Holy Spirit in a relaxed atmosphere and being immersed in receiving an outpouring of the Holy Spirit. A short introduction is given about the flow of the session followed by a 30-minute praise and worship segment to invoke the Holy Spirit. The remainder of the time is spent listening to the direction of the Holy Spirit through Scripture readings and being open to receive healing at any level: emotional, psychological, physical, spiritual, and generational. Each session is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and includes praise and worship, soaking prayer, witness/group sharing, lunch (bring your own bagged lunch), and recitation of the Rosary.
This is a unique form of prayer which allows you to call a 'time out' for yourself to come to a spiritual environment and receive an infilling of God's love, mercy, healing, compassion and peace. Everyone is welcome! (OLA House of Prayer is located at 7270 Star Road Route 190, Ellenburg Center.)
Contact for More Information: Eve McGill Email and or Phone Number: evemcgill16@charter.net or call 518-645-2648
FRIDAYS: Noon – 4 p.m.
+ Divine Mercy Chaplet and Rosary with Cheryl Lagree, Volunteer, from 3 – 4 p.m.
ANY OTHER TIME: BY APPOINTMENT, Call 518-534-9976 (Sarah) or 518-493-6671 (Deacon Ken)
MEETINGS AS WELL AS DAY AND OVERNIGHT RETREATS WELCOMED. Please call 518-534-9976 (Sarah) to make arrangements.
Contact for More Information: Sarah Anderson Phone Number: 518-534-9976
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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
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DIOCESAN YOUTH VOLUNTEER'S APPRECIATION PICNIC:
Calling all Youth Parish Volunteers! Join us for a special day celebrating and honoring our Diocesan Youth Parish Volunteers! Parents and siblings, Youth Volunteers - altar servers, music ministers, faith formation helpers, lectors, etc., are invited to Camp Guggenheim, Saranac Lake, on August 11, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for a joyful gathering filled with faith, fellowship, and fun.
This event is a wonderful opportunity for youth to connect, listen to the vocation stories of special guest speakers, and enjoy games and activities designed to inspire and strengthen their faith. A delicious cookout of hot dogs and hamburgers will be provided. The day will culminate in a beautiful Mass celebrated by Bishop Terry R. LaValley — an experience that promises to be uplifting for both youth and their families.
Don't miss out on this special occasion! The registration deadline is August 4. Register now at https://www.rcdony.org/ya We look forward to celebrating with you!
Contact for More Information: Sister Mary Eamon Lyng Email: elyng@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 - Session 1 is currently filled to capacity and is running a waitlist.
Session 2: August 21-24
Session 3: October 10-12
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.
HEART WELL HOMESTEAD’s GOLF TOURNAMENT: SAVE THE DATE
Heart Well Homestead’s 2nd Annual Golf Tournament!
August 22
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
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2025 ST. JAMES SCHOOL SUMMER RAFFLE: Grand Prize $10,000.
St. James School Summer Raffle
GRAND Prize: $10,000
2nd Prize: $5,000
3rd Prize: $2,500
4th Prize: $1,500
5th Prize: $500
Plus 5 Early Bird drawings for $100 each, will be drawn June 29!
Grand prize drawing will be held Sunday, Sept. 7 at 12:30 p.m.
All tickets will remain “in the drum” and be eligible for EVERY prize drawing!! Only 350 tickets will be sold.
Donation price is $100 each.
Tickets will be available after Masses & from Gouverneur school office 315-287-0130 or St. James Parish office 315-287-0114. Winner need NOT be present to win. NYS Tax documentation required.
Thanks for your support!
Contact for More Information: St. James Parish Phone Number: 315-287-0114
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WOMENS HEALING RETREAT: From Eve to Mary, A Journey of Hope and Healing
REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN: LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE
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
Wadhams Hall
Ogdensburg, New York 13669
Presenters:
Father Michael Jablonski and Father Douglas Schirmer
Cost:
$275 includes accommodations and meals
Fundraising - Donations gratefully accepted
In order to make the retreat financially accessible, the registration fee does not cover the full cost of the retreat which would be $500 per person. Fundraisers are taking place to cover the shortfall. If you would like to make a free will donation to help defray the cost of the retreat, please use the link below. Thank you in advance.
To register and for more information:
https://www.rcdony.org/ourlady
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
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 three 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!
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, July 6 for the July 8, 2025 edition of eNotes with bulletin information for the weekends of July 20 and 27. 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 .