Contact Information
1404 East 9th Street
Cleveland, OH 44114
(216) 696-6525
(800) 869-6525
Contact Information
1404 East 9th Street
Cleveland, OH 44114
(216) 696-6525
(800) 869-6525
Vol. 60, no. 8 | Prot. No. C-22/2026
The Diocesan Memorandum (formerly the Clergy Memorandum) is a service of the Office of the Chancellor for clergy and lay leadership of the Diocese of Cleveland, providing a summary of relevant and timely information from the Office of the Bishop and other diocesan offices.
Liturgy of the Hours, Second Edition
To assist with evaluating the options provided by the two publishers of the upcoming translation of Liturgy of the Hours, a comparison chart has been developed based on each publisher’s website and marketing information. First use of the new breviary editions is Ash Wednesday, 10 Feb 2027. Mandatory use of the new translation of Liturgy of the Hours is the First Sunday of Advent, 3 Dec 2028. The Diocese is not planning to coordinate a group purchase.
Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary – CORRECTION
Because August 15 (Assumption) falls on a Saturday, the obligation to attend Mass on this date is abrogated this year. The “Mass during the Day” may be celebrated at any time on Saturday; however, Saturday evening Masses that regularly anticipate the Sunday should be for the 20thSunday in Ordinary Time. Funeral Masses are allowed on Saturday because of the abrogation of the obligation, but other Masses for the Dead and ritual Masses are not permitted. Weddings celebrated within Mass must use the prayers for Assumption, and the selection of readings should follow the guidance given in the Order of Celebrating Matrimony, no. 34.
Mass Settings
This is a gentle reminder for directors of liturgy and music that all parishes in the Diocese of Cleveland have been asked to become familiar with two Mass settings: Mass of St. Paul the Apostle (Walker) and Mass of St. Frances Cabrini (Keil). Please consider using one of these settings at liturgical celebrations where the assembly is likely to come from different parishes, such as Confirmation, funerals, and Christmas, to help facilitate full, active, and conscious participation.
September 2026 Liturgical Calendar Reminders:
On a convenient weekday in September, it is customary to celebrate a Mass of the Holy Spirit to mark the opening of the academic year. As a new academic year begins, also see Order for the Blessing of Students and Teachers (Book of Blessings, nos. 522-550) and Prayers to Begin a School Year, Prayer for Students and Prayer for Teachers (Book of Household Blessings and Prayers, pp. 300-302).
September 1 is to be observed as the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation. Prayer resources are available here.
In commemoration of the tragic events of September 11, 2001, a Blue Mass may be celebrated during the week of September 6-12, to honor all firefighters, police officers, and EMTs who serve the local community, as well as to remember those who died over the past year. A Mass For Those in Public Office (Roman Missal #22) or For the Preservation of Peace and Justice (RM #30) are suggested.
Catechetical Sunday falls on September 20. This year’s theme, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me … to bring good news to the poor” (Lk 4:18), reveals Jesus’ mission and identity. Anointed by the Holy Spirit, He is sent to bring hope, healing, and freedom – especially to the poor, the brokenhearted, and the forgotten. Resources are available here.
Faith and Values Appeal for Catholic Education
The 2026-27 Faith & Values Appeal letter to support tuition assistance will be mailed during the first week of August to previous and select donors. Monies raised will be used for:
More information can be found on our website. Contact Fred Roberts at 216-696-6525 x3310 with any questions.
Angel Scholarship Fund Reminders:
Email John Reynolds for more information.
August is National Make-A-Will Month, a timely reminder that estate planning is an act of love and stewardship. As Christian stewards, we consider not only how we live, but how we thoughtfully provide for those we love and the ministries that have shaped our lives.
Bulletin Blurb:
Header: Make a will. Make an impact rooted in faith. August is National Make-A-Will Month—a wonderful time to create or update your will. The Catholic Community Foundation offers a free estate planning resource through FreeWill, an easy online tool that helps you create a legally valid will in about 20 minutes. Creating a will is an act of love for your family and an opportunity to reflect the values that have guided your life. If you choose, you can also remember your parish or other Catholic ministries in your plans, helping ensure that your faith continues to bless others for generations to come. Visit FreeWill.com/CatholicCommunity to learn more.
2026 Catholic Charities Appeal
The 2026 Appeal has raised nearly $14 million of the $15.3 million goal so far this year! “Yours are the hands with which He blesses the world” – and through your kindness, hope and healing are reaching our brothers and sisters in need. Your support allows Catholic Charities to provide essential programs and services at more than 60 locations throughout Northeast Ohio. Visit catholiccommunity.org/2026Appeal to learn more or donate.
July 2026 Announcements
Rev. Jozef A. Bozek has been appointed Administrator of Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, Cleveland, effective 1 July 2026. This new assignment is in addition to his assignment as Pastor of St. Barbara Parish, Cleveland, and his residence remains unchanged.
Rev. John C. Chlebo has been appointed Administrator of St. Wendelin Parish, Cleveland, and Administrator of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish, Cleveland, effective 6 July 2026. This new assignment is in addition to his assignments as Pastor of St. Christopher Parish, Rocky River, and as Delegate for Senior Priests for the Diocese of Cleveland. His residence remains unchanged.
Rev. Richard J. Samide will conclude his assignment as Administrator of St. Angela Merici Parish, Fairview Park, and has been appointed Pastor of St. Angela Merici Parish, Fairview Park, effective 15 July 2026.
Rev. Joseph G. Workman has been appointed Administrator of St. Anne Parish, Ritman, effective 1 July 2026. This new assignment is in addition to his assignment as Pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Wadsworth, and Pastor of SS. Peter and Paul Parish, Doylestown. His residence remains unchanged.
Rev. Patrick R. Schultz will conclude his assignment as Administrator of St. Bartholomew Parish, Middleburg Heights, and has been appointed Pastor of St. Bartholomew Parish, Middleburg Heights, effective 15 July 2026.
Rev. Joseph P. Robinson has concluded his appointment as Administrator of SS. Peter and Paul Parish, Doylestown, and as Administrator of St. Anne, Ritman, effective 1 July 2026. His residence, and appointment as Parochial Vicar of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Wadsworth, remains unchanged.
Rev. Stephen A. Flynn has had his appointment as Pastor of St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Gates Mills, renewed for a six-year term effective 23 June 2026.
Rev. Thomas A. Haren has been appointed to the office of Chaplain of the Department of Ohio Catholic War Veterans and Auxiliary effective 17 June 2026.
Rev. Christopher J. Zerucha has been appointed to the office of Chaplain of the Knights of Columbus University of Akron Council 18892 effective 15 June 2026.
Dcn. Robert J. Stegmaier has concluded his diaconal status of Awaiting Assignment and has been appointed as Deacon of Nativity of the Lord Jesus Parish, Akron, effective 1 July 2026.
Rev. William Fickel, SSS, with permission of the Very Reverend John Thomas Lane, SSS, Provincial Superior of the Province of Saint Ann of the Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament (USA), has been granted faculties in the Diocese of Cleveland effective 1 July 2026 for a period of one year to minister at the Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament community in Highland Heights.
Rev. Lowell G. Neuzil, with the recommendation of Deacon Sean K. Smith, Chancellor of the Diocese of Knoxville, has been granted faculties of the Diocese of Cleveland effective 1 August 2026 for a period of one year.
Dcn. Leo T. Bistak, with the recommendation of the Reverend Michael G. Dandurand, Vicar for Clergy of the Diocese of Toledo, has been granted faculties of the Diocese of Cleveland effective 29 August 2026 for a period of one year.
Marriage Formation Guidelines Implementation Support
Please email Victoria if you would like to receive an invitation to either Teams session.
For questions, please contact Terri Yohman. The full document is available online: Catechumenal Pathways for Married Life.
To learn more or to express interest in hosting, please contact Terri Yohman.
Build a New Life Workshop for Separated and Divorced Catholics
The Diocese of Cleveland is partnering with Abounding Joy Ministry and 12 dioceses nationwide to offer “Build a New Life,” a hybrid support program for separated and divorced Catholics. This 12-week, closed-session support group begins Thursday, September 3 and is available in person at St. Hilary Parish or virtually via Zoom.
The in-person group will be facilitated by Marlene Maruna and will include livestream presentations by Carolyn Klika. Participants attending virtually will be supported by Carolyn and a team of online facilitators. The cost is $50 for all 12 sessions. Registration is available through Abounding Joy Ministry. Promotional materials and social media graphics are available here. For questions or information about hosting future in-person sessions at your parish, please contact Terri Yohman.
Diocese of Cleveland Young Adult Leadership Institute
Catholic young adults ages 21–39 are invited to apply for the Diocese of Cleveland Young Adult Leadership Institute, a six-month faith formation and leadership development program. Through spiritual formation, leadership training, mentorship, and hands-on ministry experience, participants will deepen their relationship with Jesus Christ and grow as missionary disciples and servant leaders in their parishes, workplaces, and communities.
Whether you are active in parish ministry, seeking to integrate your faith more intentionally into your professional life, or discerning a deeper call to serve the Church, the Institute offers an opportunity to grow in faith, leadership, and community.
Application Requirements:
Application Deadline: August 26, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Acceptance Notification: Early September 2026. Prayerfully consider joining the inaugural cohort. For more information or to apply, contact Dr. Megan Lowes-Bolin.
World Mission Sunday Video with Pope Leo XIV
A video message from Pope Leo XIV for the 100thanniversary of World Mission Sunday will be available this year. We kindly suggest that you play this video at weekend Masses on or before Mission Sunday (October 18) and include it on your parish website and social media. We will notify you when it has been received by the Mission Office and provide you with a link to it.
Marriage Mentor Training | for new marriage mentor couples
Saturday, August 8, 9:00am - 3:00pm, Center for Pastoral Leadership, Wickliffe
Email Joe Mikolajczyk for details and to register. Registration deadline is at least two weeks ahead of time.
West-Side Wednesdays | for young adults
Wednesday, August 26, 6:00pm (final evening)
Mass at St. John Cantius in Tremont, followed by dinner at Barrio.
Stay connected, meet new people, and continue growing in faith throughout the summer months.
Empower – Training for Youth Ministry Volunteers | For youth ministers and volunteers (ages 18+)
Saturday, August 29, 8:30am - 4:30pm
St. Mary Parish, Hudson
Cycle Prep Workshop | for all young girls and parent/guardian
Saturday, September 12, 9:00am - 11:00am
St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Parish, Avon
Marriage Mentor Training | for new marriage mentor couples
Saturday, September 12, 9:00am - 3:00pm, Center for Pastoral Leadership, Wickliffe
Email Joe Mikolajczyk for details and to register. Registration deadline is at least two weeks ahead of time.
Eastern Church Seminar: A Common Date for Easter? | for all interested
Friday, September 25, 5:00pm
John Carroll University, University Heights
Guest speaker: Fr. Radu Bordeianu, Duquesne University
Contact Deacon Mike Hayes, Director, Office of Ecumenical and Interfaith Affairs
Eastern Church Seminar: The Parish in a Digital World | for all interested
Saturday, September 26,10:00am - 12:30pm
St Joseph Byzantine Catholic Church, Brecksville
Guest speaker: Fr. Radu Bordeianu, Duquesne University
Marriage Enrichment Retreat: Couples Rooted in Faith and Strengthened by Love | for interested couples
Saturday, September 26, 8:00am - 3:00pm
St. Agnes + Our Lady of Fatima Church, Cleveland
Guest presenters: Andrew and Terri Lyke, Archdiocese of Chicago
Contact Ana Eslaquit for details and to register.
Marriage Mentor Training Update | for current marriage mentor couples
Tuesday, October 20, 7:00pm, via Microsoft Teams
If you have previously trained marriage mentors at your parish, please invite them to attend a virtual session. Contact Joe Mikolajczyk for details and to register.
Marriage Mentor Training | for new marriage mentor couples
Saturday, October 24, 9:00am - 3:00pm, Holy Family, Stow
Email Joe Mikolajczyk for details and to register. Registration deadline is at least two weeks ahead of time.
First Friday Club of Cleveland
Dean Robinson - Experiencing God’s Mercy through Conversion to Catholicism | Thursday, August 6, 2026 | Borromeo/Saint Mary Seminary, 28700 Euclid Ave., Wickliffe, OH 44092 | Registration and more information can be found here.
Theology of the Rocks for Adults 40 & Over | Monday, August 10, 2026 | Westside Irish American Club, 8559 Jennings Rd., Olmsted Twp. | An Evening of Reflection with Mary Pat Frey, Pastoral Associate at Divine Word | Click here for more information.
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Submissions for the next Memorandum should be made to Ann Marie Perkins by the 15th of the preceding month. Guidelines for submissions are available here.