eNOTES FOR MAY 12, 2026
(WITH BULLETIN INFORMATION FOR THE WEEKENDS OF MAY 24 and 31, 2026)
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HIGHLIGHTS:
ORDINATION TO THE ORDER OF THE PRIESTHOOD
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 Priesthood Deacon Michelet Boncoeur, Deacon Tyler Martin Fitzgerald and Deacon Dennis Mamwacha Ombongi.
You are cordially invited to join in the Ordination Liturgy on Saturday, May 30, at 11 a.m. at St. Mary’s Cathedral, 415 Hamilton Street, Ogdensburg.
A Reception will immediately follow the Liturgy downstairs in the Brzana Hall. 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 Phone Number: 315-605-1093
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. Kevin Patrick McCullouch.
You are cordially invited to join in the Ordination Liturgy on Saturday, June 6, at 11 a.m. at the Church of the Holy Family, 129 Winthrop Street, Watertown.
An outdoor reception will immediately follow the Liturgy behind the Greystone Building (across from Holy Family Church). If there is inclement weather, the reception will be held inside the Greystone Building. 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 Phone Number: 315-605-1093
NEW POSTS
NEW FROM THE DIOCESAN OFFICES:
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IMPORTANT PUBLIC POLICY ALERT: Federal Scholarship Tax Credit
The new Federal Scholarship Tax Credit would allow all taxpayers to receive a 100% federal income tax credit, up to $1,700, for donations that fund scholarships helping all students with tuition, tutoring, and many other education costs. If New York opts in, this program will bring millions of dollars in privately funded support to families, while allowing taxpayers to redirect a portion of their federal taxes to help all students enrolled in public, Catholic, and other schools across the state. Tell Governor Hochul to opt in! Go to www.bit.ly/federal-scholarship-credit to take action today, or scan the QR code below.
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LOVE HEALS: Our Lady of the Rosary Healing Retreat 2026
This year's Annual OLR Healing Retreat will take place at Wadham's Hall, 6566 State Highway 37 from October 8-11.
The Presentor will be Sonja Corbitt.
Do not waste another day. Stop the pain. Love heals. John Paul the Great said, “Suffering unleashes love,” because we only ever find Jesus and His love in our wounds. Sonja Corbitt has been teaching people how to acknowledge and open their woundedness to God’s love for over 17 years as a leader in the Catholic Church and Scripture teaching space. You may know her as the Catholic Evangelista through her speaking, writing, and podcasting.
Space is limited and Register today: https://www.rcdony.org/ourlady
For more information contact Kathleen Nichols kmsnichols1163@gmail.com
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THE FOSTER GRANDPARENT PROGRAM: Volunteer Opportunity
To volunteer in this program you must reside in one of the following counties. Franklin, Clinton, St. Lawrence and Jefferson County
Contact for More Information: Melissa Howard Phone Number: 518-572-2262
NEW PARISH EVENTS AND NOTIFICATIONS:
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MONTHLY PANCAKE BREAKFAST: In Support of Augustinian Academy
Sunday, June 14, 2026
8 a.m. Till Noon
St. James Community Room, Carthage
Fathers Eat Free
MENU
Scrambled Eggs, Pancakes, French Toast, Ham, Sausage, Baked Goods, Juice, and Coffee
PRICE
$10 for Adults
$8 for Seniors
$5 for Children under 10
$30 for a Family of 4 or more
SPONSORED BY:
Carthage K of C
Father John Cosmic #291
Ave Maria Circle
For more information call:
315-493-3224
Contact for More Information: 315-493-3224
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52nd ANNUAL SAINT JAMES FAIR: A Parish & Catholic School fundraiser
FAIR DATES & HOURS OF OPERATION
Thursday 6/25 5-9 p.m.
Friday 6/26 5-9 p.m.
Saturday 6/27 Noon-9 p.m. (rides shut down 4-5 p.m.)
Don't miss the 52nd Annual Saint James Fair! 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 6/25
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
Forrest City Petting Zoo
Ontario Amusement Rides
Unlimited rides from 5-9pm with purchase of $20 Wrist Band
FRIDAY 6/26
5-9pm DJ Rodney Clement
Reptiles Forever
Ontario Amusement Rides
Unlimited rides from 5-9 p.m. with purchase of $20 Wrist Band
SATURDAY 6/27
Noon-4 p.m. Carthage Fire Department Engine Tours
Noon-4 p.m. Reptiles Forever
Noon-2 p.m Karissa Widrick-keyboardist & soloist
Ontario Amusement Rides
Unlimited rides from Noon-4 p.m. or from 5-9 p.m. with purchase of $20 Wrist Band
ALL DAYS
American, Italian & Specialty Food booths
Big Bob's burgers
Ice Cream booth
Fried Dough
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
Contact for More Information: Heidi Marshall Email and or Phone Number: hmarshall@twcny.rr.com
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ST. ANTHONY’S 108 TH MOUNT CARMEL FEAST: 108th. Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Feast
June 26, 27 & 28
Great Italian food, rides for the kids.
The celebration begins with a Spaghetti Dinner June 25 from 4-7 p.m.
Feast hours. 5-10 p.m. on June 26
Sat. 1-10 p.m.
Sun. 1-10 p.m. with the Religious procession at 5 p.m.
Giant Fireworks 9:30 p.m.
Contact for More Information: Tony Marra Email: amarra99@verizon.net, Phone Number: 315-782-1190.
Reminder: We cannot publish parish flyers with graphics, except for those advertising certain national programs which provide free graphics for publication.
No other new parish events were submitted. Please check your parish bulletins and previously posted submissions below.
REGULAR FEATURES:
NEW
SAFE ENVIRONMENT CORNER
Behind the Smile: Uncovering the Warning Signs of Grooming, Part 1 - By Judge Kate Huffman
By educating ourselves on the signs and tactics used in grooming, we empower families, employees and volunteers working with children and communities to protect potential victims, intervene early, and create safer environments. While many definitions of grooming exist, researchers generally describe grooming as being:
- A manipulative process by which a person prepares a child, others around the child, and the community, to obtain greater access to be able to abuse the child.
- A process of gaining access to the child, using manipulation to reduce the child’s resistance and maintain the child’s secrecy to avoid disclosure.
- A process serving to strengthen the offender’s abusive pattern, to justify or deny their actions and the impact of their actions, and to avoid culpability and repercussions.
Shortly prior to his death, His Holiness Pope Francis reminded us, in his message to the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors, that “abuse prevention is not a blanket to be spread over emergencies, but one of the foundations on which to build communities faithful to the Gospel.” His words remind us that we are all charged with the obligation of being vigilant at all times in not only detecting, but in preventing the abuse of children. By understanding and recognizing the potential signs of sexual grooming, we can fulfill our role in earnestly protecting children and the vulnerable.
This article is the copyrighted property of National Catholic Services, LLC. shared/republished here with their permission.
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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.
For further information, contact Scott Lalone, Executive Director of Development/Foundation at the Diocese of Ogdensburg at 315-393-2920 or slalone@rcdony.org.
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ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP:
for the May 24 Bulletin
"There is a nobility in the duty to care for creation through little daily actions, and it is wonderful how education can bring about real changes in lifestyle. Education in environmental responsibility can encourage ways of acting which directly and significantly affect the world around us…" (Laudato Si’, 211).
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ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP:
for the May 31 Bulletin
A simple way of saying thanks for the bounty of the earth is to resist the purchase of synthetic pesticides and herbicides that will hurt birds and pollinators that are helpful for gardens. Eco-friendly products are not usually the first products you see on the shelves. You may have to look around for them or ask a clerk!
PREVIOUSLY POSTED:
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 Alexis Michael, Mater Dei Foundation Scholarship Chair, at amichael@rcdony.org. Application deadline is June 1.
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PUTTING ON THE LENS OF GOSPEL JUSTICE: Online via zoom
"This is the peace of the risen Christ – a peace that is unarmed and disarming, humble and persevering. It comes from God who loves us all unconditionally." - Pope Leo XIV
WHAT: Seven-week series on Gospel Justice as a lens to view our current reality and to consider ways to act in light of them in our daily lives, based on the Beatitudes, Matthew 25:31-46 and the Catholic Social Teachings concluding with Laudato Si. Presenters include: Msgr. Robert Aucoin, Father John Yonkovig, Deacon JB Kavanagh, Sister Debbie Blow, Deacon Gary & Gayle Frank, John Ferry and Sister Bethany Fitzgerald.
WHEN: Wednesday Evenings from 7 to 8 p.m. beginning April 15, Second Week of the Easter Season concluding May 27, Week of Pentecost. Sessions are on ZOOM.
NEXT THREE SESSIONS:
May 13: Solidarity -- Father John Yonkovig
May 20: The Dignity of Work and the Rights of Workers - John Ferry
May 27: Care for God's Creation - Sr. Bethany Fitzgerald, SSJ
WHO: Anyone interested in discovering different ways to love one’s neighbor
COST: Series is FREE; just need to register. To register contact: srbethssj@gmail.com or call 315-212-6592. ZOOM link will be provided prior to first session.
***Sponsored by: Sisters of St. Joseph Justice Promoter/Faith and Ecology Committees
MAY 16 HIGHWAY TO HEAVEN 2026 EVENT: Registration closes Friday, May 15 at 1 p.m. or when we reach capacity whichever comes first.
Highway to Heaven 2026 is less than a month away. Registration is filling up. Don’t miss your chance to join the May 16 event at Sacred Heart Church in Massena! Join Catholics from around the diocese and beyond to hear the music of Sarah Kroger, be inspired by the preaching of Father Jonathan Meyer and witness the power of the Shroud of Turin — all with the Eucharist as our Highway to Heaven.
Read Bishop LaValley's endorsement letter HERE.
Space is limited and registration is required. To view the schedule and register, please visit: https://www.rcdony.org/h2h
Contact for More Information: Mary Beth Bracy Email and or Phone Number: marybethbracy@gmail.com
Further details:
The Shroud of Turin exhibit, including a full-length replica of what many scientists and faithful believe is Christ’s burial cloth. It also contains a large crucifix depicting Christ’s wounds corresponding to the Gospels and the wounds shown on the Shroud and over 30 banners detailing the history and science of the Shroud.
Father Jonathan Meyer, media personality, National Preacher of the Eucharistic Revival, and priest of the Archdiocese of Indianapolis known for his spiritual dynamism, who will give talks on the Holy Eucharist.
Internationally known and award-winning Catholic musician Sarah Kroger, who will lead music during Eucharistic Adoration. Her awe-inspiring songs will touch the hearts of people of all ages.
The event will include Mass, Confessions, Eucharistic Adoration, a Eucharistic Procession with Bishop LaValley, the Eucharistic Miracles exhibit, films, vendors and more. There will be time for fellowship and service. It will be an awesome day for the whole family!
Space is limited and registration is required. To view the schedule and register, please visit: https://www.rcdony.org/h2h
Click on these printable flyers to download and share.
Contact for More Information: Mary Beth Bracy Email: marybethbracy@gmail.com
ATTENTION LOCAL BUSINESS OWNERS: Support HIGHWAY to HEAVEN 2026
We invite local businesses to partner with us in making this powerful Eucharistic event possible. Sponsorship opportunities include program ads and event recognition, reaching over 10,000 people across the North Country. Multiple levels of support are available.
Learn more: www.rcdony.org/h2hbusiness
Email: plooby@rcdony.org
Contact for More Information: Patrick Looby Email: plooby@rcdony.org
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HONOR A LOVED ONE IN PRAYER AT HIGHWAY TO HEAVEN 2026: Support HIGHWAY to HEAVEN 2026
Submit the name of a loved one to be remembered in prayer during Mass and Eucharistic Adoration at Highway to Heaven 2026. Whether living or deceased, your intention will be lifted up as we gather for this powerful day of encounter with Jesus in the Eucharist.
Learn more or give: www.rcdony.org/h2hdonation
Contact for More Information: Patrick Looby Email and or Phone Number: plooby@rcdony.org
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GRANT FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITES: Pastors and Principals
The Diocese of Ogdensburg annually offers two grants of $5,000 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. The grant application can be downloaded HERE.
Applications must be submitted by May 15. Monies will be allocated by mid-June.
If you have any questions regarding the grant and/or the application, please contact vlalonde@rcdony.org or call (315) 393-2920 ext. 1411.
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SPAGHETTI & MEATBALL DINNER: K of C Fundraiser (Evans Mills)
Spaghetti & Meatball Dinner, Saturday, May 16, serving from 4 to 7 p.m. in St. Mary's Parish Center in Evans Mills to benefit Indian River 7471 Knights of Columbus.
Contact for More Information: Parish Office at 315-629-4678
CATHOLIC HOME MISSIONS APPEAL - May 23/24: 2nd collection supporting U.S. Dioceses that cannot support themselves
Please promote the Catholic Home Missions Appeal using the bulletin announcements and links to other materials in the attached document in Word and PDF formats.
Contact for More Information: Deacon James Crowley Email: jcrowley@rcdony.org
MEN'S RETREAT: Spend a weekend with other faith-filled men
The Diocesan Catholic Men’s Retreat will be held on Friday, June 12 (arrival as early at 4 p.m.) until Sunday, June 14 (departure at 1 p.m.) at Guggenheim Dorm, Saranac Lake. This year Father Leagon Carlin will speak about G. K. Chesterton. The retreat is open to men 18 years of age or older. Outdoor activities will include canoeing and hiking.
To register go to https://www.rcdony.org/family-life.html (bottom of the page)
The non-refundable registration fee is $125.00, which includes meals and lodging.
Contact for More Information: Steve Tartaglia Email: startaglia@rcdony.org and or Phone Number: 315-393-2920
ST ANN'S 8TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF CARS: Car Show (Mooers Forks)
Sunday, May 31, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Craft Fair, Theme Baskets, Lottery Tree, Bake Sale, Food & Entertainment.
St Ann's Grounds, 24 Town Hall Rd, Mooers Forks, NY. Top 40 picks & special awards at 3 p.m., Hot Wheels races kids $5 & Adult $10 includes car, kids Power Wheels show, $10, garden tractor pullers on display, vehicle pre-register $15 or $20 day of the show between 11 a.m. & 1 p.m. hamburgers, hot dogs, cheeseburgers, sausage, slaw dogs, French fries, poutine, drinks.
Contact for More Information: Don Perras or parish offices Phone Number: 518-236-7200, or 518-565-6754 or 518-236-5632
ANNUAL HEALING MASS: St. Mary's Church, Clayton
Join us at St. Mary's Church in Clayton for our Antoine Tetrault Memorial Service / Annual Healing Mass.
Saturday, June 13, at 11 a.m.
Presiders, Father Arthur LaBaff and Father Don Robinson
The Sacrament of the Sick will be offered during Mass. After the Mass, prayer teams will be available for individual needs. A reception will follow in the parish center.
There is no cost to attend.
Contact for More Information: St. Mary's parish office Email: claytonsec@rcdony.org Phone Number: 315-686-3398
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LIFE-GIVING WOUNDS RETREAT: Healing Retreat for adults left wounded by their parents divorce
The Life-Giving Wounds retreat, for adults whose parents separated or divorced, will be held in Utica at the Good News Center from June 26 to June 28. The cost is $80-$150 for commuter, shared room or single room. Retreat price includes overnight lodging, meals, and all retreat materials. Register now at https://solgw26.eventbrite.com/
If you have any questions, contact Steve Tartaglia at startaglia@rcdony.org or 315-393-2920.
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CAMP GUGGENHEIM IS FILLING FAST!: A Week That Can Change a Life
Spots for Camp Guggenheim are going quickly! Session 5 (ages 16–18) has only waitlist spots remaining, and all other sessions are already over 50% full.
Give your teen an unforgettable week of faith, friendship, and adventure in the Adirondacks—where they can grow in confidence, encounter Christ, and build lasting memories.
📅 2026 Sessions:
• Session 1 (11–13): July 5–10
• Session 2 (12–15): July 12–17
• Session 3 (12–15): July 19–24
• Session 4 (12–15): July 26–31
• Session 5 (16-18): Waitlist only
💲 Cost: $450 per session
Scholarships are available—cost should never prevent a teen from attending!
👉 Don’t wait—sessions are filling quickly!
Contact for More Information: Patrick Looby Email: plooby@rcdony.org
BREAKTHROUGH HEALING WORKSHOP FOR ALL FAMILIES: Cape Vincent
Note: Updated registration information below
Save the date ….
August 6 – 8, 2026 Breakthrough Healing Workshop at St. Vincent of Paul in Cape Vincent, New York
Are you longing for deeper healing, freedom, and peace in your life? Join Patrick and Joy Campbell, Benedictine Oblates, from the Cross of St. Benedict Society and Joyful Hope. The Breakthrough Healing Workshop is a powerful time of testimony, teaching, and prayer ministry to help you overcome spiritual obstacles. Heals past wounds and encounter God’s restoring love. Feel free to invite a friend and seek healing and hope.
To register for this event email your name, address, phone and Parish you attend to BHWJHDIOOGD@gmail.com or call/text Mary at (315) 486-7967.
10 DAYS MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS ON A RHINE RIVER CRUISE:
On board the luxurious MS Amadeus Silver II
Visiting: Freiburg*Strasbourg*Speyer*Rüdesheim*
Koblenz*Cologne*Rothenburg*Nuremburg*Munich
December 3 – 12, 2026
Hosted by Father Donald Robinson
Starting at $4,599 from NEW YORK*
*Air/land tour price is $4,049 plus $550 gov’t taxes/airline charges
Contact for More Information: Father Donald Robinson Email: donrob4@twcny.rr.comPhone Number: (315) 408-0858
Office of Vocations Bulletin Intercessions, Cycle A - 2025-2026
Office of Vocations Bulletin Blurbs, Cycle A - 2025-2026
Office of Evangelization Bulletin Blurbs Cycle A - 2025-2026
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.
Reminder: We cannot publish parish flyers with graphics, except for those advertising certain national programs which provide free graphics for publication.
The next submission deadline is May 24 for the May 26 edition of eNotes with bulletin information for the weekends of June 7 and 14. 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.