eNOTES FOR March 9
(with bulletin information for the weekends of March 21 and 28)
Jump to: HIGHLIGHT NEW POSTS PREVIOUSLY POSTED LINKS
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 March 21 for the March 23 edition of eNotes with bulletin information for the weekends April 4 and 11. 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.
HIGHLIGHTS
NEW
NEW PHYSICIAN ASSISTED SUICIDE FACT SHEET: from the NYS Catholic Conference
The bill to legalize physician-assisted suicide has been introduced in the Assembly, not the Senate but may be any day. The new fact sheet from the NYS Catholic Conference is available for educational purposes.
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LEAD: LIGHT THE FIRE, SPREAD THE FLAME: A Live Zoom Event
The sacrament of Confirmation, its symbolism, its sense of mission, and ideas for implementing an effective program.
Saturday, March 13
9:45am - 12:00pm
Speakers are Deb Mullin from Catholic Community of St. Peter, St. Mary, St. Hedwig in Lowville & Peter Woolschlager from St. Stephen's Church in Croghan
The cost to attend is free.
Adults only are welcome to register. The Zoom link will be sent as the event date approaches.
To register go to: https://www.rcdony.org/ffleadreg
NEW POSTS
From The Diocesan Offices:
NEW
PONTIFICAL GOOD FRIDAY COLLECTION: Helping Christians in the Holy Land
The connected documents (in Word and PDF) contain a bulletin announcement, an optional pulpit announcement and more resources regarding the Pontifical Good Friday Collection. Please be sure to share this collection with your parishioners so we may show our solidarity to Christians in the Holy Land.
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NEW
DIOCESAN YOUTH RALLY: Courage to Rise - Answering the call to love one another
The Diocesan Youth Office is excited to offer the 2021 Youth Rally virtually. On April 17th, from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm, young people in grades 7 to 12 are welcome to “Zoom” into a fun, enriching, and engaging virtual rally centered on our 2021 theme, “Courage to Rise”- Answering God’s call to love one another.
Although there is no fee to attend this virtual event, registration is required. Please click the link below to access the registration page. After you complete the registration form, you will be directed to a “Photo/Video Release” form. Upon completion of both forms,we will send you an acknowledgement and instructions on how to access the Rally via a Zoom video link. Youth are welcome to attend the rally remotely from home or with their respective youth group if they have been safely gathering,following their Parish COVID protocols. All youth who register and participate will receive an activity/gift package in the mail.
Our keynote speaker for the rally will be Doug Tooke. Doug Tooke is a dynamic and energetic speaker with more than 20 years in Ministry.Doug’s presentations inspire and motivate people to seek a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
Bishop Terry R. LaValley will round out the event with a Q&A/Discussion, and Blessing. Your host for the event will be Thomas Semeraro, the Diocesan Director for the Office of Youth Ministry.
Expect moments of laughter, music, prayer, reflection, a renewed Faith and the “Courage to Rise”, answering the call to love one another.
For more information, contact Tom Semeraro,tsemeraro@rcdony.org or 315-393-2920 ext 1415
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NEW
SUMMER CAMP GUGGENHEIM: The summer 2021 registration is now open!
We are excited and hopeful to be able to offer the opportunity for our youth to attend summer camp in 2021. Although it may look a bit different because of the anticipated COVID protocols, we feel that it will still be a wonderful experience for all.
Please contact Tom Semeraro, Director for the Office of Youth Ministry with questions or inquiries.
1-315-393-2920 ext. 1415
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NEW
CAMP MEDICAL DIRECTOR NEEDED
Camp Guggenheim located in Saranac Lake New York is hiring a Medical Director for the 2021 Camp Season.
The requirements are: 18 years or older, a practicing Catholic, Certified NYS LPN, EMT or NYS RN.
Summer Camp Guggenheim is a 7 week overnight youth camp that runs from June 17 to August 6. We are interested in hiring a certified nurse for the full 7 weeks or weekly partial employment.
This is a great opportunity to spend time in the beautiful outdoors, and engage vibrant young people as they journey in faith.
For more information please contact:
Tom Semeraro Director of Youth Ministry tsemeraro@rcdony.org or 1-315-393-2920 ext. 1415
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NEW
SUMMER CAMP GUGGENHEIM EMPLOYMENT:
A Guggenheim counselor should be a high dchool graduate, 18 years or older, have a minimum of one year of college or workforce experience and have participated in a counselor training program [E.G. Teen Vision] or worked as a camp counselor in a youth leadership position. An applicant should be a practicing Catholic who is willing to share faith with young people. Guggenheim operates for seven weeks -June 17 through August 6. For more information please visit the application page https://www.rcdony.org/youth/camp
Please contact Tom Semeraro, Director for the Office of Youth Ministry with questions or inquiries. 1-315-393-2920 ext. 1415
NEW
ONLINE ALPHA COURSE: starts April 5
Do you know anyone with questions about Christianity? Someone who has been on the fence or has drifted away from the faith? Invite them to Alpha.
Alpha is a place to explore the Christian faith with others. It’s a series of conversations focused on the questions of life, faith, and meaning.
Each session includes a time to connect with others, hear a talk on some element of faith, and then a chance for people to share their own questions and perspectives with the group.
The Diocese of Ogdensburg is running an online Alpha starting April 5 from 6:30pm-8pm via Zoom. Guests can join from the comfort of their own home. All that they need is a computer with a mic/camera or a smart phone.
Registration form is available at https://www.rcdony.org/alpha. For more information contact Marika Donders, Office of Evangelization at mdonders@rcdony.org
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NEW
PARISH NURSE PREPARATION COURSE: Classes offered in Ogdensburg
Description: Mercy Care for the Adirondacks will offer preparation for the role of Parish Nurse beginning April 9 in Ogdensburg. This course is open to registered nurses and others who are interested in health ministry in their parishes. Parish Nurses (Faith Community Nurses) assist the members of their faith community to maintain or regain wholeness in body, mind and spirit. They promote wellness by health screening, health education, advocating for clients, connecting them to services in their community, listening and providing support. It is 36 contact hour course offered on Fridays and Saturdays in April-May (see attached flyer for details). For further information, please contact Sister Catherine Cummings, RSM at ccummings@adkmercy.org or 518-523-5582.
NEW
ANNUAL MISSION OFFICE LENTEN APPEAL: Annual Mail-in Donor Campaign
As we enter the season of Lent at the beginning of what we hope to be better year, the Pontifical Mission Societies asks you to keep our Annual Lenten Appeal in your minds and hearts. With your help we can help the vulnerable communities and families around the world live happier and healthier lives. Donations can be made for this campain until Pentecost Sunday - May 23 through our website at https://www.rcdony.org/mission.
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NEW
2021-2023 FORMATION FOR MINISTRY PROGRAM
The Formation for Ministry Program is a two-year program that prepares men and women to serve in their parish. More information as well as application forms are available on our diocesan website at: https://www.rcdony.org/formation/candidate.html. Join us for the virtual informational sessions offered via Zoom by registering at www.rcdony.org/infoses. You may also contact Cathy Russell, Formation for Ministry Director at: crussell@rcdony.org.
UPDATED March 9
MATER DEI COLLEGE FOUNDATION: Attention High School Seniors
MATER DEI COLLEGE FOUNDATION: Attention High School Seniors
Are you a Catholic who is currently in your senior year of high school and who currently resides in the Diocese of Ogdensburg and is planning to attend a Catholic College or University in the Fall? The Mater Dei College Foundation is pleased to offer a Scholarship opportunity to qualifying students going on to study liberal arts and sciences at a degree granting Catholic College or University. To request an application form, please email Valerie Mathews, Mater Dei Foundation Scholarship Chair at vmathews@rcdony.org . Application deadline is June 1, 2021.
NEW
CRUISE NORWAY IN JULY OF 2022
Join Fr. John Yonkovig of St. Agnes in Lake Placid for a wonderful 14-day cruise on Holland America's new "Rotterdam," setting sail on July 9, 2022. For more information check the website: www.stagneslakeplacid.com
Parish Events and Notifications
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NEW
ST. JAMES PARISH MISSION: Lenten Parish Mission
Bill Wegner from Good News International will be conducting a Parish Mission at St. James Church, Carthage from March 21-24. Bill is a Catholic Lay Evangelist and comes with a reputation for being a dynamic, humorous and engaging speaker, whose sessions are both challenging and inspiring. He travels internationally as well as across the U.S. to proclaim the Good News. He recently gave a Mission at St. Mary’s Cathedral and last year in the Watertown parishes. His schedule is as follows - March 21, 7pm presentation; March 22, 9am Mass and 7pm presentation; March 23, 9am Mass and 7pm presentation; March 24, 9am Mass and 7pm presentation.
Everyone is invited.
For more information contact St. James Church, 315-493-3224
No other new parish events were submitted. Please check your parish bulletins and previously posted submissions below.
Regular Features:
NEW
SAFE ENVIRONMENT CORNER: Did you know?
Did You Know…Hope is the virtue by which we trust God who is faithful to his promises. To hope is ultimately to desire heaven and to trust in Jesus Christ to form and to transform our person and our experiences. Hope is a movement away from despair. Hope sharpens our vision and purpose. We can remain hopeful that our brokenness and vulnerabilities can, in and through hope, be means for us to grow in relation to the Lord.
NEW
PLANNED GIVING: How to Transfer a Gift of Stock
Gifts of stock can be given to benefit our parish, the Capital Campaign, your favorite Catholic School, programs, ministries, Missionary Projects and the Diocese of Ogdensburg. The proceeds can be restricted according to your wishes, or directed to an endowment fund held in the Foundation of the RC Diocese of Ogdensburg. For more information, contact the Diocese at 315-393-2920 or Email slalone@rcdony.org.
NEW
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP: Fast to Feast
for the March 20/21 Bulletin
FASTING TO ALMSGIVING TO FEASTING
Shop smart and waste less. (1) Make a list and stick to it. (2) Shop more frequently, as we tend to overbuy during a "big shop" and end up wasting food. (3) Shop on a full stomach; resist impulsive buying. (4) Buy fresh items in smaller quantity/ Choose loose fruits and veggies over prepackage ones. Buying loose produce will make it more likely that you will use your food before it spoils. (4) If you purchase “Family Size’ or "Buy one, get one free," consider sharing with a neighbor or the local food pantry. Fasting from waste can provide a feast for someone else. For more information, check out Lenten Food Waste Fast /Ignatius Solidarity
NEW
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP:
for the March 27/28 Bulletin
Lent calls us to ‘new life.’ It prepares us to a ‘springtime for our souls’ amidst a springtime of the earth. Walk around your Church, both inside and outside, and look for ways in which could be more ‘green.’ For example, caulking windows and doors inside and planting trees or flowers outside. What steps would be need to be taken to make one or more of them a reality? Even one action could bring ‘new life’ for the earth and all who inhabit it.
PREVIOUSLY POSTED
The Diocese of Ogdensburg is actively following the directive of the county public health departments to ensure that all diocesan parishes, schools, ministries, and charities are responding appropriately to the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). For up-to-date diocesan resources, live-streamed Masses, and other information related to the Coronavirus pandemic, please visit www.rcdony.org/covid-19 .
Parishes are encouraged to share the information found on this page with parishioners via their websites, social media or any other available communications methods.
Mary Immaculate, our Mother and our Patroness,
we ask you to intercede for us with your Son,
as you did at the wedding in Cana.
Pray for us, loving Mother,
and gain for our diocese, our nation and our world,
for our families and loved ones,
the protection of your Maternal mantle from this dreaded virus.
In this time of trial and testing,
teach all of us to love one another and to be patient and kind.
Help us to bring the peace and healing Presence of Jesus to our land and to our hearts.
We come to you with confidence,
knowing that you are our compassionate mother,
health of the sick and cause of our joy.
Keep us in the embrace of your arms,
Help us always to know the love of your Son, Jesus our Lord.
AMEN.
UPDATED LINK TO REGISTER
FREE NATIONAL CATHOLIC WOMEN'S CONFERENCE: March 12-14
The National Catholic Women's Conference is a FREE virtual event for Catholic women of all ages. This year, we will be exploring all the ways that we as women can open ourselves to receive Christ's peace.
Despite the pressures that we feel in life, peace is possible! Let's explore it together.
The free event goes March 12-14.
Register today at https://go.virtualcatholicconference.com/NCWC2021Countdown
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COMBINED CATHOLIC RELIEF SERVICES AND PETER’S PENCE COLLECTION: Second Collection on March 13 and 14
Please see the document availalbe in Word and PDF formats) for oral and bulletin announcements for the week before, of and after the collection. Websites for additional materials are also included.
As always, the success of every collection depends on the efforts in the parish, thank you for your support.
JOB POSTING: Diocesan Coordinator – Office of Parish Audit & Financial Support Services
The Roman Catholic Diocese of Ogdensburg is seeking a Diocesan Coordinator – Office of Parish Audit & Financial Support Services. This position provides support in the financial operation of parishes, schools and related entities in the diocese including technical support in the use of QuickBooks Pro and standard accounting practices. This position also oversees the process by which reviews of parish fiscal operations are conducted and reviews annual submission of Parish Financial Reports to assure financial statements are in balance an in accordance with diocesan accounting regulations. A Bachelor’s Degree in accounting with two years audit experience is preferred. Knowledge in QuickBooks Pro accounting software is required. Candidates should possess excellent verbal and written communication skills, have the ability to work independently and manage/establish priority for several projects at the same time. Travel throughout the diocese is necessary on occasion. Submit letter of interest, resume and three professional references to: Human Resources Office, Diocese of Ogdensburg, P.O. Box 369, Ogdensburg, NY 13669 or e-mail to: ksnover@rcdony.org. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
MARCH RETREAT DAY: Walking with St. Joseph as our Guide.
“Walking with St. Joseph as our Guide.” During this year dedicated to St. Joseph, this Retreat Day will consider the mind and heart of Joseph, as reflected in his actions and reflect on ways that he might be a faithful guide and companion on our own faith journeys. It will also provide opportunities for prayer and sharing.
When: Saturday, March 13, 2021 - 10:00 am to 2:00pm
Facilitator: Sister Bethany Fitzgerald, SSJ
Where: VIRTUAL on ZOOM
No cost. If you wish to make an offering for the retreat, mail to: Sisters of St. Joseph, 1425 Washington St, Watertown, New York 13601
To register: srbethssj@gmail.com or 315-212-6592
CLICK TO DOWNLOAD PRAYER BOOKLET
PRAYERS OF THE FAITHFUL FOR JOYS/SORROWS OF ST. JOSEPH:
Requested by Bishop LaValley
Observing the Seven Joys and Sorrows of St. Joseph
When: Sundays from Jan. 31 to March 14
The Devotion to the Seven Sorrows and Seven Joys of St. Joseph is observed on the seven Sundays preceding the March 19 feast of St. Joseph. The suggested prayers of the faithful may be downloaded HERE.
A Prayer booklet prepared by Fr. Joe Giroux can be download HERE or by clicking on the image above.
IGNITE MEN'S CONFERENCE: livestreamed online
A Message from Bishop Douglas Lucia: "On March 20, 2021, the Diocese of Syracuse is hosting the Twelfth Annual Ignite Catholic Men’s Conference. It will be my first as the Bishop of Syracuse. Although there are limits on gathering, I am excited that the conference has found a way to continue. Whether you participate with a small group of men at a satellite parish or at your own home, this day has the potential to fire you up at this challenging time.
I look forward to kicking off the day by celebrating Mass with you from Sacred Heart Church in Cicero. I am thrilled that two speakers are returning this year, including our own Fr. Jason Hage. We will welcome Steve Ray back to IGNITE, and we are blessed to be joined by NFL quarterback Chris Greison.
I invite you to seriously consider who you can invite to participate in IGNITE this year. A father? A son? A brother? coworker? friend? Someone is hurting and reaching out and you have the chance to offer them something more precious than silver or gold. You can offer them refuge and healing in the Name of Jesus.
”See” you on March 20th!" — Most Rev. Douglas J. Lucia
This year's Ignite Men's Conference will be livestreamed from Syracuse on March 20, 2021. The Schedule is as follows:
07:15 log on
07:30 Rosary
08:00 Mass
08:45 Break
09:00 Fr. Jason Hage
09:50 Chris Greisen
10:30 Break
10:45 Steve Ray
12:00 Close
For more information about the speakers and to register: https://www.ignitecatholicmen.org/
CHRISM MASS
At the Chrism Mass, the priests are invited to join the Most Reverend Terry R. LaValley in the renewal of their priestly commitment and for the Blessing of the Holy Oils, and the consecration of the Sacred Chrism for use in all the churches of the Diocese symbolizing that we are one family in Christ.
Bishop LaValley along with the clergy, consecrated religious, seminarians and deacon candidates will celebrate the Chrism Mass on Tuesday, March 30, 2021 at 1:00pm at St. Mary’s Cathedral.
Due to the COVID-19, safe distancing guidelines seating capacity is limited. We encourage the lay faithful to join us via livestream at https://www.rcdony.org/livemass.
LENTEN PARISH MISSION PODCAST: The Father Roger Podcast
COVID has prevented most of us from having the traditional in person Lenten parish mission this year. That’s why I’m offering a podcast alternative to my parishioners led by Roger McGuinness. It will begin on February 16th and new episodes will be added each week. You are more than welcome to include your parishioners too. I have written a bulletin blurb below. I have also included the source code for a podcast player that your webmaster can copy and paste into your parish website. If you have any questions feel free reach out to Fr. Chris Looby at fatherlooby@gmail.com
BULLETIN BLURB:
St. Mary’s Church of Ticonderoga (OR INSERT YOUR PARISH) is offering a special Lenten Parish Mission podcast hosted by Father J. Roger McGuinness!
Fr. J. Roger McGuinness has been a priest of the Diocese of Ogdensburg for over 50 years. He has been a pastor, seminary and university professor, retreat master, college chaplain and vocation director. Now retired from active ministry he continues to write and give spiritual direction.
Fr. Roger will be leading us in a Lenten mission featuring weekly reflections on the Sunday gospel readings. He will also offer a special reflection on the life of St. Joseph on March 19th, the Feast of St. Joseph.
The podcast can be found at our website https://www.route74catholics.org/fatherroger It can also be found at Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and Spotify. The first episode will be available on February 16th.
HTML CODE FOR WEBSITE:
<iframe src="/https://embed.podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-father-roger-podcast/id1550627369?itsct=podcast_box&itscg=30200" height="450px" frameborder="0" sandbox="allow-forms allow-popups allow-same-origin allow-scripts allow-top-navigation-by-user-activation" allow="autoplay *; encrypted-media *;" style="width: 100%; max-width: 660px; overflow: hidden; border-radius: 10px; background: transparent;"></iframe>
IS GOD CALLING YOU TO A MORE ACTIVE ROLE IN YOUR PARISH?
The Formation for Ministry Program prepares men and women to serve in their local parish. This program is a two-year program. Classes are online through Boston College. Candidates also meet a few times a year as a group for workshops. More information is available on our diocesan website at: https://www.rcdony.org/formation/candidate.html. Or contact Cathy Russell at: crussell@rcdony.org - (315) 393-2920.
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SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH FOUNDATION: Grant Application Cycle Now Open
The Sisters of St. Joseph Foundation is established in the spirit of its charism - to enable service of the 'dear neighbor.' Its goal is to assist in developing leadership for diocesan, parish and church related programs in the North Country. Applicants must be applying for or be currently active in a leadership role in a diocesan, parish or established program and be sponsored by the Director of that program. Applications may be submitted during March and April. Grants will be a maximum of $4000 and recipients will be notified by the beginning of June. Applications may be obtained by contacting Sister Shirley Anne Brown, SSJ at P.O. Box 42, Hammond, NY 13646 or by email at shirleybrownssj44@gmail.com.
ADVOCACY IN THE PALM OF YOUR HAND
You now have the tools to make your voice heard to your elected officials right in the palm of your hand. The Catholic Action Network (CAN) can text critical advocacy alerts directly to your smartphone, with links to quickly send messages to your elected officials on urgent issues of the day. To sign up, just text the word CAN to 50457. You’ll immediately receive a one-time link to complete your registration, which is free. Please consider signing up today.
More information is available at https://www.nyscatholic.org/nys-catholic-conference-action-center/
LINKS
Office of Vocation General Intercessions Cycle B
Office of Vocations Bulletin Blurbs Cycle B
Office of Vocation Seasonal Bulletin Blurbs