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.
Rite of Election Reminder
The 2026 Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion will be celebrated on Sunday, February 22 at Public Auditorium beginning at 2pm. Participation in Rite of Election is not optional for adult catechumens anticipating initiation at this year’s Easter Vigil. The deadline for parishes to register for this celebration was January 15. If you missed the deadline and want to register catechumens and candidates for this celebration, please contact Mary Hrich as soon as possible, as we are arranging assigned seating. Parishes are reminded to celebrate the Rite of Sending and have catechumens sign the Book of the Elect at the parish prior to participating in the Rite of Election.
The Diocesan Evening of Confession returns this year on March 4th. Most parishes in the diocese will welcome the faithful from 5-8 pm. All are invited to participate in the Sacrament of God’s mercy.
Instruction: Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion Assisting at Mass and Communion of the Sick in the Diocese of Cleveland
The diocesan instruction for Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion has been updated, effective 1 February 2026. The Office for Worship will be sending a copy of this updated instruction to each parish, along with a report of the names of their parishioners who have attended a formation session to become an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion. For those who are listed on the report, there is no need to attend another diocesan formation session, unless a refresher is desired. We ask that each parish provide a copy of the updated instruction to each parishioner on the report. If you have parishioners serving in this ministry without having attended diocesan formation, they are kindly asked to attend a diocesan formation session this year. The schedule of upcoming formation sessions will be finalized in the next few weeks and will be distributed via the usual means. There is no cost to participate in a formation session for Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion.
Easter Vigil Start Time
The earliest start time for the Great Vigil on 4 April 2026 is 8:45pm. A detailed explanation is posted here.
March 2026 Liturgical Calendar Reminders:
On the Second Sunday of Lent, March 1, the presider may wish to use the Roman Canon (Eucharistic Prayer 1), which echoes the theme of Abraham as our father in faith, that is reflected in the first reading.
For those parishes who have catechumens anticipating initiation at the Easter Vigil, the First Scrutiny should be celebrated on Sunday, March 8, the Third Sunday of Lent. The Second Scrutiny is celebrated on March 15 and the Third Scrutiny on March 22. See the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults.
The Solemnity of St. Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary, is celebrated on Thursday, March 19. It is not a holy day of obligation. It is the custom in some places to bless on this day bread, pastries, and other food and to give a large portion of it to the poor. For the Order of Blessing of St. Joseph’s Table, see Book of Blessings #1679-1700.
The Fifth Sunday of Lent – March 22. The practice of covering crosses and images throughout the church from this Sunday may be observed. Crosses remain covered until the end of the celebration of the Lord’s Passion on Good Friday, but images remain covered until the beginning of the Easter Vigil.
This year’s Chrism Mass will be celebrated at St. Sebastian Parish in Akron on Tuesday of Holy Week, March 31 at 5:00 pm. At this special liturgy, all the holy oils that will be used in our diocese for the coming year will be blessed and consecrated. This is also an opportunity for priests of the diocese to renew themselves in their priestly vocation. Please be advised that, in an effort to be fair and non-partisan, general seating for the Chrism Mass will be first come, first served; saving of seats for others not present will not be allowed. Doors will open at 4:00pm. Holy Oils may be collected after the Mass. The distribution process will be similar to past years.
Vendors of goods from the Holy Land
Bishop Malesic has granted permission to the following vendors to sell religious articles from the Holy Land at the Catholic Parishes in the Diocese of Cleveland.
The permission is granted effective February 21, 2026 until February 20, 2027.
If you are contacted by any of the individuals named above, please know that they have the Bishop’s permission to do so and that you can determine whether or not to permit them to display religious articles from the Holy Land at your parish.
There have been some reports of confusion by parish staff between vendors; for example, that a booking has been made by one vendor, then a new booking made with a second vendor while parish staff were under the impression that this was merely a rescheduling of the date of the first vendor. If in doubt, you may wish to ensure that you are speaking with the correct vendor by calling back to the contact number originally given to you at the time of the first booking. Some vendors have expressed disappointment at the poor sales they have experienced when they have visited a parish shortly after another vendor has visited the same parish.
If you have any feedback (good or bad) regarding your experience with these vendors, kindly let me know so that it can be considered prior to making a decision regarding next year’s vendors.
Angel Scholarship Fund
Make sure you take advantage of the January 1- April 15, 2026 donation window when Ohio taxpayers can make a donation that may be eligible for a 2025 state tax credit. Marketing materials can be found in our toolkit. Please note the ASF donation page has been updated and donors are required to select if they are claiming a 2025 or a 2026 credit through April 15th. All contributions through April 15, 2026 will be available for schools to award as scholarships this fall.
Fund A Dream
Apply to receive Fund A Dream Scholarships for your students in the 2026-27 school year. Schools are responsible for completing one single application for all students they would like to recommend. Full details can be found under the Scholarship Information and Application Portal on the foundation website. Application recommendations will be received from 1/15-3/15/2026. Please contact Kaitlyn Novicky with questions.
Catholic Charities Parish Appeal: Feb. 14-15 All parishes are asked to conduct the In-Pew Appeal the weekend of Feb. 14 - 15th. We are grateful for the support of our priests and volunteers who faithfully promote the Appeal at the parish level and to our loyal parishioners who, through their sacrificial gifts, are changing lives throughout our diocese. We would like to get 11,000 generous donors this weekend to ensure our goals are met to serve the people in need. Parish Kits should have arrived in all parishes by January 27. If you have questions or for more information, email Sarah Gozur or call 216-696-6525 x1910.
Tabor Fund Grant Awards
Tabor Fund 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. Tabor Fund awards are often used toward a variety of activities and conferences, as well as sabbaticals. Guidelines and the application for the 2026 cycle can be found here.The application deadline is March 15.
Andrew Gregory Rodgers and Pauline Rodgers College Scholarship Fund
This program provides scholarship assistance to students pursuing post-secondary education while maintaining registered parishioner status at Sacred Heart Chapel. The student must be a registered parishioner at Sacred Heart Chapel, 4301 Pearl Avenue, Lorain, Ohio 44055-3311. Deadline: April 15, 2026
January 2025 Announcements
Rev. Joshua J. Cochrac has been appointed temporary Administrator of Immaculate Conception Parish, Willoughby; and as temporary Administrator of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Wickliffe, effective immediately. These are in addition to his current assignment as Pastor of St. Justin Martyr, Eastlake. His residence remains unchanged.
Rev. Damian J. Ference has been appointed as Chaplain of Knights of Columbus Council 733 effective 1 January 2026.
Rev. Kevin J. Fox has been appointed as Chaplain to Cleveland Central Catholic High School, Cleveland effective 15 January 2026.
Rev. Michael K. Gurnick has concluded his appointment as Chaplain for the Knights of Columbus Council 733 effective 1 January 2026.
The Reverend Jose R. Casas, with permission of The Most Reverend Leo M. Dalmao, Bishop-Prelate of the Prelature of Isabela de Basilan, Philippines, has been appointed Parochial Vicar of St. Bridget of Kildare Parish, Parma; and Parochial Vicar of Mary Queen of the Apostles Parish, Brook Park effective 8 December 2025. His residence will be at Mary Queen of the Apostles Parish rectory.
Deacon Lawrence Boehnlein has concluded his diaconal assignment at St. Mary Parish, Chardon, and has been granted retirement status as a deacon of the Diocese of Cleveland effective 15 January 2026.
Deacon Dennis A. Guritza has concluded his diaconal assignment at St. Joan of Arc Parish, Chagrin Falls, and has been granted retirement status as a deacon of the Diocese of Cleveland effective 15 January 2026.
Deacon Raymond S. Herrick has concluded his diaconal assignment at St. Francis de Sales Parish, Akron, and has been granted retirement status as a deacon of the Diocese of Cleveland effective 15 January 2026.
Deacon Thomas G. Hupertz has concluded his diaconal assignment at Immaculate Conception Parish, Madison, and is grant retirement status as a deacon of the Diocese of Cleveland effective 15 January 2026.
Deacon Richard F. Kuhlman has concluded his diaconal assignment at Immaculate Conception Parish, Madison, and has been granted retirement status as a deacon of the Diocese of Cleveland effective 15 January 2026.
Deacon Stephen C. Makara, Jr. has concluded his diaconal assignment at Queen of Heaven Parish, Uniontown, and has been granted retirement status as a deacon of the Diocese of Cleveland effective 1 January 2026.
Deacon James K. O'Donnell has concluded his diaconal assignment at Gesu Parish, University Heights, and has been granted retirement status as a deacon of the Diocese of Cleveland effective 15 January 2026.
Deacon Robert F. Schwartz has concluded his diaconal assignment at St. Patrick Parish, Thompson, and has been granted retirement status as a deacon of the Diocese of Cleveland effective 15 January 2026.
Parish Fish Fry Listing
The Communication Department will once again list parishes/schools holding a fish fry during Lent on the diocesan website. Parish/schools are asked to complete the form at dioceseofcleveland.org/fishfryrequest to submit their information. The listing will include the name of parish/school, address, phone, URL and dates of the fish fry. No other details will be listed. Parishes/schools are encouraged to put more detailed information on their websites that will be linked from the diocesan website. Questions or concerns about this listing can be sent to Deacon Jeff Stutzman in the Communications Department.
2026 Diocesan Week of Service is March 22-28
Registration is now open for the 2026 Diocesan Week of Service. The Week of Service is an opportunity to come together to serve others across Northeast Ohio. Throughout the week, volunteers will partner with Catholic Charities, parish groups, and community organizations. Together, we will participate in a variety of service projects that reflect our shared mission of compassion, dignity, and justice.
Please complete this registration form if you are interested in participating in an organized service project. Activities have been scheduled in all eight counties of the Diocese at various dates and times. You may also want to check with your parish to see if there are additional activities in your community that you can participate in. A list of participating parishes may be found on the diocesan website.
It is not necessary to sign up for one of the activities provided to participate in this Week of Service. We encourage all people of goodwill to engage in acts of service, on your own or with your family and friends. Check out the user-friendly guide available on our website for ideas for organizing your personal project.
If you are a parish or community organization that would like to submit a service project to be posted so volunteers can sign up through our website, please complete this Project Details Form by February 27.
Click here for more information and additional resources.
2026 National Marriage Week is February 7-14
The theme this year is “Man and Woman He Created Them: Together with Purpose.” For Your Marriage has downloadable resources including posters, graphics and a at-home retreat with reflections for each day of the week in English and Spanish.
Golden Jubilee Mass
The annual Mass for couples celebrating fifty years of marriage will take place at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist on Sunday, June 14, at 2:00pm with Bishop Malesic. No need to RSVP, but we encourage bulletin editors to put these details in the parish bulletin inviting all couples married in 1976 and their families to attend. There is an opportunity for pictures at the conclusion of Mass, which does fulfill the Sunday obligation.
Wedding Anniversary Certificates
The Vatican website for requesting specialized certificates from Rome has been down for many months. However, 50th Anniversary Certificates are available from the Marriage & Family Ministry Office by request through the diocesan website. These are created on a monthly basis and mailed directly to the home.
Biking with Babies Missionary Program
Biking for Babies is a Catholic missionary cycling initiative that witnesses publicly to the immeasurable worth of every human life while raising support for pregnancy help organizations. Its Advancement Coordinator, Joe Armen, a parishioner at St. Justin Martyr Parish (Eastlake), is available to visit interested parishes to share how individuals and communities can get involved as donors and/or missionary cyclists. Email Joe Armen or call 216.789.2376 or email.
USCCB “You Are Not Alone” Initiative
The USCCB has launched the You Are Not Alone initiative to assure migrants and their families that the Church stands with them, offering pastoral support and accompaniment during this time of uncertainty.
In our Diocese, Catholic Charities Migration and Refugee Services (MRS) and the Refugee Resource Center (RRC) provide support to refugees and migrants. Below are some ways you can help.
Migration and Refugee Services
Cash donations are accepted. Clothing may be donated to Joseph House during scheduled drop-offs. Please call (216) 939-3737 or (216) 939-3759. You will find most needed items are listed on the MRS website. Questions? Contact MRS staff at 216-939-3759.
Refugee Resource Center
Currently, the Resource Center sees 45-60+ families per week, many of whom are very large. There is a great need for diapers, feminine napkins, toilet paper, and laundry detergent. Other items always needed include shampoo, body soap, deodorant, dish soap, and general household cleaners.
February 13, 8:00am - February 15, 4:00pm
Retrouvaille Weekend | Office of Marriage & Family Ministry
In Kent (location details after registration)
Saturday, February 14, 10:00am - 1:00pm
Discover Your Faith Language, Proclaim Your Witness | Lay Ecclesial Ministry Office
Center for Pastoral Leadership, Wickliffe
Wednesday, March 5, 7:00pm - Friday, March 7, 8:30pm
Annual Lenten Revival | Office of Black Catholic Ministries
St. Aloysius/St. St Agatha Church, Cleveland
Saturday, February 21, 9:00am - Sunday, February 22, 4:00pm
Marriages of Hope Retreat/Retiro Matrimonios de Esperanza | Office of Hispanic Ministry
Center for Pastoral Leadership, Wickliffe
Friday, February 23, Saturday, February 24, Sunday, February 25, 6:00pm
Juan XXIII Women’s Retreat | Office of Hispanic Ministry
Our Lady of Lourdes, Juan XXIII Retreat House, Cleveland
For more information, contact Jason Martínez at 216-647-9608.
Tuesday, February 24 from 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Lay Ecclesial Ministry Information Night | Office of Lay Ecclesial Ministry
Center for Pastoral Leadership, Wickliffe
February 26, 8:00am - 2:00pm
Guadalupe Youth Summit | Office of Hispanic Ministry
Ohio Expo Center, Columbus
Contact Hortensia De Jesús Rodriguez for questions and / or registration information.
Catholic Charities, Diocese of Cleveland, Disability Services & Ministries
Disability Ministry Training on May 7-8, 2026
Catholic Charities Disability Services & Ministries and the Diocese of Cleveland are hosting the National Catholic Partnership on Disability (NCPD) for a free, two-day Disability Ministry training on May 7-8, 2026, at St. Ambrose Parish in Brunswick. The first day will focus on parish accessibility, adaptive catechesis, leveraging resources, language guidelines, and a parish assessment. The second day will focus on mental health: accompaniment, stigma, trauma-informed care, and suicide. This will be a great opportunity for our Diocese and awareness for individuals with disabilities. All are welcome. Registration information will follow. Email megan.bonilla@ccdocle.org for more details.
Monthly Sunday Grief Support meetings are held on the third Sunday of the month throughout the year, except for June, when the meeting will be held on the fourth Sunday. Event Calendar
In-Person Meetings: 3:00 p.m. | Virtual Meetings: 5:00 p.m. | Virtual Registration Link | For additional information, please call Renee at 216-930-4866 or email
In-Person Locations
MMGSI continues to offer courses this winter/spring. Registration is open for the following course. These are for any adult who wants to go deeper in understanding our faith. No prior study is assumed.
Cost: $100* | Instructor: Rev. G. David Bline, Lecturer in Pastoral Studies and Spiritual Director, Saint Mary Seminary and Graduate School of Theology | When: Mondays, 6:30–9:15 p.m., February 23 – March 30 I Where: Center for Pastoral Leadership, Wickliffe | Register here.
*MMGSI is committed to making our programs as accessible as possible. Discounted rates and fee waivers may be available: email mmgsi@dioceseofcleveland.org for information.
Mark your calendars for the following MMGSI lectures and series:
Borromeo Seminary Aquinas Lecture: James Matthew Wilson on "The Order of Things: Aesthetic Form, the Liturgy, and Truth" | 4:00 p.m. Saturday, February 21 | Center for Pastoral Leadership, Wickliffe
American Catholic History Series: Celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation's birth with monthly lectures by Fr. Kyle Rosser. The next lecture will be at 6:30pm on Wednesday, February 25 at the St. Albert the Great Parish Life Center in North Royalton.
First Friday Club of Cleveland
The Most Reverend Edward C. Malesic, Bishop of Cleveland | Thursday, February 5, 2026 | Windows on the River | Registration and more information can be found here.
First Friday Club of Greater Akron
Brian Polian, Vice President for Athletics and National Engagement at John Carroll University | Friday, February 6, 2026 | Our Lady of Cedars, 507 South Cleveland Massillon Road, Fairlawn, OH 44333 | Registration and more information can found here.
Theology of the Rocks for Adults 40 & Over | Monday, February 9, 2026 | Westside Irish American Club, 8559 Jennings Rd., Olmsted Twp. | The Most Reverend Edward C Malesic, Bishop of Cleveland | Click here for more information.
* * *
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 © 2026
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