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.
Saint Elizabeth of Hungary Parish and Church
Effective August 14th, 2023, Saint Elizabeth of Hungary Parish, Cleveland, will be merged with Saint Emeric Parish, Cleveland, such that Saint Emeric Parish will be the sole continuing parish.
Effective August 15th, 2023, Saint Elizabeth of Hungary Church, 9016 Buckeye Road, Cleveland, will become a diocesan shrine for the promotion of the Christian heritage of the Hungarian people and for the celebration of the sacred liturgy according to the liturgical books in use prior to the reform of 1970.
Diocesan offices and parishes are to observe the provisions of this Instruction regarding the Shrine of Saint Elizabeth of Hungary.
September 2023 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 (Household Book of Blessings, pp. 300-302).
Friday, September 1, is to be observed as the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation. Prayer resources are available here.
Monday, September 4 is a Special Day of Prayer for Recognizing the Dignity of Labor and Human Rights and Equality. Appropriate prayers can be found here and here.
Although it is not included in the General Roman Calendar or the liturgical calendar proper to the United States, The Memorial of St. Teresa of Calcutta may be observed on Tuesday, September 5, using prayers in the Roman Missal from the Common of Holy Men and Women, III, For Those Who Practiced Works of Mercy (see GIRM, no 355c).
In commemoration of the tragic events of September 11, 2001, a Blue Mass may be celebrated during the week of September 10-16, 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 17. This year’s theme is "Come to me all you who labor and are burdened" (Matthew 11:28), reminding us of the invitation we receive from the Lord Jesus to follow Him and the promise that He doesn’t want to add to our burdens; he wants to lighten them. Resources for the day are available here.
On Sunday, September 24, the World Day for Migrants and Refugees is observed. This year’s theme is “Free to choose whether to migrate or to stay”. Read Pope Francis’ message and prayer for the day here. Click here to download the Vatican’s resource kit.
Formation for Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion
The Office for Worship plans to hold the next round of sessions for formation of Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion in Autumn 2023. A memo with the schedule and registration link will be sent to parishes and campus ministers when dates and locations are set. The full schedule will also be posted here.
New edition of Canonical ProceduresA new edition of Canonical Procedures is available, describing the correct procedures to follow in marriage preparation, sacramental records, and ascription to different churches sui iuris. Download the pdf file, or call the Secretariat for Canonical Services at 216-696-6525 ext. 4000 to order a printed copy.
Maximizing State and Philanthropic Funding Opportunities
The state budget recently signed by Gov. DeWine will positively impact school choice in Ohio, beginning in the 2023/2024 school year. Please take a moment to read this statement from Brian Hickey, Executive Director of the Ohio Catholic Conference, commending our legislature on the expansion of school choice in the FY24-25 State Budget.
The Office of Catholic Education, Communications, and Catholic Community Foundation are taking the lead on educating parishes and schools and helping them adapt, leverage and effectively access new state funding opportunities and maximizing existing philanthropic support (e.g., Diocesan Tuition Assistance; Angel Scholarship Fund; Fund A Dream) for Catholic education in our diocese. Virtual meetings were held with pastors, principals, business managers, and tuition managers in July, and follow up communications will continue through the summer months.
Please contact Dene Hummon, 520-784-4600 or Fred Roberts, 216-902-1312 with any questions.
2023 Catholic Charities Appeal: A time to heal. A time to help.
The 2023 Appeal has raised $13 million so far. The goal of reaching $14 million is within reach to help more than 425,000 people who rely on Catholic Charities for programs and services.
Tabor Fund Grant Awards
Tabor Grant awards provide an opportunity for ministers to refresh and re-energize their spirituality and faith as well as their mental and physical well-being, fostering personal development and improving their ministry. Guidelines and the application for the 2023B cycle can be found here . The application deadline is September 15.
National Make a Will Month
August is National Make a Will Month, and it is a great opportunity to promote legacy giving in your parish community. The Catholic Community Foundation has many different resources to assist your parish in promoting legacy gifts in support of your parish. If you are interested in these opportunities, please email Mary Lou Ozimek or call 216-696-6525 x4070.
BALLPARK MASSES | Monday, August 14, 7pm | Mercy Health Stadium, Avon
Join us for a Vigil Mass in celebration of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Mass will be celebrated by Bishop Martin Amos at 7 pm, preceded by a living Rosary on the field of Crushers Stadium at 6:30 pm. Eucharistic Adoration with praise & worship music by Fr. Menkhaus and family will follow. Doors will open at 5:30 pm, as well as concession stands and Kids Zone. Register for free here.
Sunday, September 10, 5pm | Brookside Park, Ashland
Join us in Ashland for our final Ballpark Mass of the year. Mass will be celebrated by Bishop Roger Gries, OSB, with Fr. Steve Moran as homilist. More details coming soon. Register for free here.
Eucharistic Miracles Display | August 18-25, 2023 | St. Cyprian Parish, Perry
Dates and times are as follows. Please contact the parish if you have any questions at (440) 259-2344. Friday, August 18, 5:30 – 7:30 pm; Saturday, August 19, 6:00 – 7:30 pm; Sunday, August 20, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm; Monday – Thursday, August 21-24, 9:00 – 11:00 am & 5:30 – 7:30 pm; Friday, August 25, 9:00 – 11:00 am.
Small Faith Communities Convocation | August 26, 2023, 9am-5pm | La Sagrada Familia
A day of reflection for all those serving as leaders in parish liturgical and pastoral ministries, small faith communities, John XXIII, Charismatic Renewal, Cursillo, and other prayer groups.
Last chance to Lay Ecclesial Ministry Retreat: The Glorious Road to Joy
August 11-12, 2023 | Center for Pastoral Leadership, Wickliffe
An epidemic of isolation and anxiety has taken root in our culture in recent years. Let's come together for a time of retreat that will help us all to be renewed in our joy as we discern more keenly the loving presence of God in our lives. Directed by Fr. Mark Ott. Registration is open until Friday, August 4. Commuter and overnight options available.
Strengthening Self to Serve Others | Saturday, September 23, 9am-12pm | Center for Pastoral Leadership, Wickliffe
Saturday Workshop series for those in formation and certified Lay Ecclesial Ministers begins with a presentation by Fr. Andy Turner on the Strengths Finders assessment. We will walk through identifying your personal strengths to understand what makes you unique and how to use your results to maximize your gifts in ministry. If you have not completed the Clifton Strengths assessment and are not currently in the LEM certificate program, you will need to complete the assessment. The cost is $20. Visit dioceseofcleveland.org/lemevents for more information and to register.
Bereavement Events
Clergy, staff and parish leaders are invited to a Come and See event at St. Justin Martyr Parish, Eastlake, on Friday, September 22 from 9:00am - 1:00pm. Red Bird Ministry founders will present and share new bereavement resources. The cost is $10 for lunch. Registration can be found on the MFM event page here.
Red Bird Ministries will also host a retreat at St. Bridget Kildare Parish, Parma, on Saturday, September 23 for couples grieving pregnancy loss or the loss of a child. Registration can be found here. Special thanks to Catholic Cemeteries for sponsoring the workbooks for the couples.
Papal Blessing Parchments
These blessing parchments can be ordered via a Vatican website for events including marriages, anniversaries, first communion and confirmation. Users must complete the form and pay by card. The cost is about $50 for mailing to the US. Click here to visit the website.
Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekend
Worldwide Marriage Encounter Cleveland will be held September 15-17 at Homewood Suites in Solon. Register for the weekend here.
Catholic Bridge Builders Workshop | Wednesday, August 9, 8am-4pm | Center for Pastoral Leadership, Wickliffe
Places are still available. Join us for a day of reflection on our own personal relationship with Jesus, and how that directs us in our relationship with others. Register now to be part of a new view of “front-line” worker as minister and evangelizer. For questions contact Christy Cabaniss. Go to Parish Life events to register.
Retreat for Evangelization & Stewardship Ministers "Finding Jesus in the Eucharist" | Wednesday, August 16, 9am-5pm | Trilogy Retreat Property, Southington OH
Our time together will support us in our efforts to live our vocation in the Church as we help others see the beauty of the Eucharist. Please email Jennifer Webb or Christy Cabaniss with any questions. Register here.
Monthly Meetings for Evangelization & Stewardship Ministry | Thursday, August 17, 1:00 pm
The Parish Staff Networking Group is a gathering of those serving our parishes in the ministries of evangelization and stewardship. We are gathering online on the third Thursday of each month. If you would like to be part of this meeting, please contact Christy Cabaniss.
Alpha Course | Saturday, August 19, 9:30am-1:30pm | St. Gabriel Parish, Concord
This free training session is an excellent opportunity to learn best practices and have an immersive experience of the Alpha process. Whether you are considering Alpha, are already committed, or are an experienced leader, you will find co-workers in the vineyard. To join the experience register here. Lunch is included.
Welcoming New Faces in Advent and Lent | Wednesday, October 4, 10:00am - 2:30pm | Center for Pastoral Leadership, Wickliffe
Join Paul Jarzembowski of the USCCB to discuss the influx of new faces in Advent and Lent and how we can welcome them into the life of our parishes. Paul’s newest book, Hope for the Holidays, is a continuation of his work, Hope from the Ashes. In both, Paul draws from the phenomenon of people who rarely participate in Church life suddenly returning for Ash Wednesday, Lent, and Christmas holidays to open a conversation of what invitation looks like and how we can do it well. Invite your entire parish leadership team to be part of this invigorating conversation. The cost is $10 and includes lunch. Register at dioceseofcleveland.org/hope. For questions, contact Mike Hayes or Christy Cabaniss.
Fostering a Heart for Teens | Saturday, August 19, 9am-4pm | St. Charles Borromeo Parish, Parma
Bring your volunteers for a great day of prayer and training. We have relevant topics for both new and veteran youth ministry volunteers. Fr. Eric Garris, Ron Nowak, and Bebe Menkhaus are three of our presenters. Registration for youth ministers, clergy, seminarians, and religious is free this year, so please bring your people and use this as an opportunity for training and visioning together. Register and see the flyer with more details here.
YM Bootcamp: #WeGiveCatholic and Youth Ministry | Thursday, August 31, 2-4pm | Cathedral Square Plaza, Downtown Cleveland
Come and learn how to harness the energy and support of #WeGiveCatholic to do effective fundraising for youth ministry at your parish. Jackie Brauser from the Catholic Community Foundation will train us on how to plan a successful #WeGiveCatholic campaign for your ministry. Youth ministers Jenn Martin from St. Mary, Hudson and Theresa deKrom from St. Helen, Newbury will also share on their successes with #WeGiveCatholic. Register here.
Pastor & Youth Minister Gathering | Tuesday, September 19, 10am-2pm | St. Basil the Great Parish, Brecksville
Clergy and youth ministers are invited to this day to kick off the new youth ministry year. Katie Prejean McGrady and others will unpack how to foster a love for the Eucharist with teens and implement the Eucharistic Revival in youth ministry. Katie is a former youth minister, speaker, author, podcaster, and daily radio show host and will be joining us from Lake Charles, Louisiana. Register here.
Ohio March for Life Trip | Friday, October 6, 7am-5pm | CLE - CBUS
Parishes and high schools can purchase tickets to bring a group of high school teens and chaperones on this Diocesan pilgrimage to be a voice for the voiceless and participate in the Ohio March for Life. We will start with Mass at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist and then board buses to Columbus. Places are limited. Register here.
Book Launch Party with Local Author Fr. Damian Ference | Thursday, August 3, 7pm-10pm | St. Wendelin, Cleveland
Come celebrate the new publication of Fr. Damian’s new book, Understanding the Hillbilly Thomist (Word on Fire Publications). Live Music, Food Trucks, Beer and Community. No registration. No admission cost. Just show up.
Becoming Fire | Saturday, August 12, 4pm-10pm | Center for Pastoral Leadership, Wickliffe
An Outdoor Festival of Faith for Young Adults. Mass with Bishop Michael Woost. Optional Breakout Sessions:
Night Prayer and Adoration closes the day. The cost is $20 and includes dinner. Food by Winking Lizard and the King Cone Truck. Register here.
Diocesan Softball League Championship Sunday | Sunday, August 13 | Meijer Park, Seven Hills
Softball league season concludes with Championship Sunday at Meijer Park. 12:45pm – Consolation game. 2:30pm – Championship. No charge.
Believeland Retreat | September 15-17 | Jesuit Retreat Center, Parma
Come join with young adults (Age-18-39) from all over the diocese as they reflect on their lives in the context of faith. This is a peer-led retreat by young adults, for young adults. Attend the full weekend for $65. Financial assistance available. Contact Mike Hayes, Diocesan Director for Young Adult Ministry.
Theology on Tap | Tuesday, September 19, 7pm | Forest City Brewery, Ohio City
Come kick off the Theology on Tap season at Forest City Brewery in Ohio City. $5 registration fee. Speaker TBA. Please register online.
Sensory Friendly Mass at St. Bernadette | Sunday, August 27, 2023 at 3:00pm
Disability Services & Ministries is happy to support a Sensory Friendly Mass for individuals with diverse abilities and their families, which will be celebrated on Sunday, August 27 at 3 pm at St. Bernadette Church, 2256 Clague Road, Westlake. This liturgy is sponsored by the Knights of Columbus Council 16376. The celebrant will be Rev. Philip G. Racco, Pastor. We celebrate individuals with diverse abilities and recognize their gifts, which they bring to our Church family. A sensory mass is an opportunity for them to fully participate and feel welcomed. A reception will take place in the Community Room after Mass. An interpreter will be provided for the Deaf. RSVP to Jack Archer 216-505-5414.
Support Immigrants and Refugees Transitioning to Their New Homes: Host a Donation Drive
Catholic Charities Migration and Refugee Services partners with OneHope NEO Ohio and St. Ambrose Parish to settle hundreds of people into their new homes in the Greater Cleveland area each year. Refugees have extremely limited resources until they are able to work and provide for themselves. Your parish or community can make a tremendous impact by running a donation drive to collect materials for household supply kits. Visit https://www.onehopeneo.org/refugee-kits for more information. Email admin@onehopeneo.org with questions including what kits are most needed, volumes, and time frames, or to initiate a supply kit drive.
Sacred Heart of Jesus, Wadsworth, has gently used Gather (Third Edition) Missals. They were published in 2011 by GIA Publications. Please contact Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish Office at 330-336-3049, if you are interested, and we will make arrangements for delivery.
First Friday Club of Greater Akron
Panel of Alumni from our four Catholic High Schools: Speaking on “How My Catholic Education Has Guided Me Through Life.” | Thursday, August 3, 2023 at Walsh Jesuit High School, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44224,| Registration and more information here.
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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.
Child & Youth Protection
Our promise to protect, our pledge to heal.
To report an abuse, please contact local law enforcement and:
Kathleen McComb, Victim Assistance Coordinator
Response Services – 216-334-2999
Catholic Diocese of Cleveland © 2024
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