eNOTES FOR AUGUST 4, 2026
(WITH BULLETIN INFORMATION FOR THE WEEKENDS OF AUGUST 16 AND 23, 2026)
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YOUTH MINISTERS SUMMIT: For All Who Work With MS/HS Youth
First Annual YOUTH MINISTRERS SUMMIT: August 28-30.
Open to all ADULTS who work with MS/HS aged young people in the diocese! We have Camp Guggenheim booked for the whole weekend, so you can come for a day or retreat the whole time! It will be a time of collaboration, problem-solving, resource sharing, prayer and strategizing for the year.... and, of course, some well-deserved relaxation. Catechists, Confirmation Teachers, Youth Group Leaders, Religion Teachers...if you work with young people, you are invited!
To Register, visit: forms.cloud.microsoft/r/7FNXDbFmVP
Suggested donation of $25 to help defray the cost of food. Includes all lodging, food and events.
Please pass this along to any of your volunteers!
Contact for More Information: Patrick Looby Email: plooby@rcdony.org
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SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH LAY ASSOCIATE PROGRAM: Information Meetings in Colton, Plattsburgh and Watertown.
The Sisters of St. Joseph invite you to a meeting on Saturday, September 12, St. Patrick’s Center, Colton at 1 p.m.; Sunday, September 13 at John XXIII Newman Center, Plattsburgh at 2 p.m.;or on Sunday, September 20 at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Dostie Hall, Watertown from 2 to 4 p.m. if you are interested in learning about our Lay Associate Program. Associates meet once a month to learn about the spirituality, the charism and mission and history of the Sisters of St. Joseph, pray together and discuss ways to deepen one’s spiritual life. This group is open to men and women.
If you are interested, please contact: Sister Mary Eamon (smelyngssj@yahoo.com) or call 315-393-6511 or Sister Bethany srbethssj@gmail.com or call 315-405-4058.
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FREE THEOLOGY SERIES: Ready to Give an Answer - 1 Peter 3:15
Ready to Give an Answer: Natural Theology
Saturday, September 12 | 9 a.m.– noon
St. Mary’s Parish Center, 66 Court Street, Canton
How do we know God exists? Why does evil happen if God is good? What about evolution, the Big Bang or the multiverse? The first session of the Ready to Give an Answer series will help Catholics respond to these questions with clarity, confidence and charity while exploring the relationship between faith and science.
This free professional-development opportunity is open to all who work with middle school or high school youth, including catechists, Catholic school teachers, youth group volunteers, parish youth ministers and core-team members. A continental breakfast will be provided, and participants may receive credit toward certification in Youth Ministry.
Although the event is free, registration is required so that we can prepare for food and communicate any changes. Register using the QR code on the flyer or email Patrick Looby at plooby@rcdony.org.
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HIGH SCHOOL LEADERSHIP WEEKEND: Lead Boldy. Love Deeply.
Leadership Weekend 2026 • September 25-27 at Camp Guggenheim
For teens entering 9th–12th grade. Spend an unforgettable weekend growing in faith, building friendships, enjoying outdoor adventure and learning from inspiring Catholic leaders. Cost: $150 (Financial Aid is available). Scan the QR code on the flyer for the 2025 recap video and registration information, or register at https://www.rcdony.org/leadership.
Contact for More Information: Patrick Looby Email: plooby@rcdony.org Phone Number: 315-854-2894
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DIOCESAN BLUE MASS: September 27 at St. Paul's Church, Black River
Bulletin announcement beginning the weekend of September 12/13, through weekend of September 26/27:
Diocesan Blue Mass: Bishop Terry R. LaValley will celebrate the annual Blue Mass on Sunday, September 27, at 2:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s Church, 210 LeRay Street, Black River, NY 13612
The Blue Mass is the Church’s way to offer thanksgiving to God for the dedication and sacrifices made by the men and women of Fire, EMS, Corrections, Law Enforcement and Communications. First Responders, their families and all the faithful are invited to attend this Sunday celebration. Uniforms are encouraged but not required. Questions can be addressed to Father Chris Carrara, Blue Mass Committee Chair at info@rcdony.org or by phone at 315-393-2920.
Please verbally announce at Masses in the Jefferson-Lewis Deanery and parishes bordering.
Verbal announcement beginning the weekend of September 12/13, 2026, through weekend of September 26/27:
Bishop LaValley will celebrate the annual Blue Mass on Sunday, September 26 at 2:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s Church, Black River. The Blue Mass the Church’s way to offer thanks to God for the dedication and sacrifices made by the men and women of Law Enforcement, Corrections, Fire, dispatch and EMS and to pray for their safety. First Responders, their families and all the faithful are invited to attend. Please see the bulletin for details.
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JOURNEY WITH CHRIST: Save the Date
All catechists and parish leaders are invited to join us for Journey with Christ in Norfolk, Saturday, Oct. 17, 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. Mark your calendars. Watch for event details and registration.
Contact for More Information: Anita Soltero Email: asoltero@rcdony.org Phone Number: 518-310-3669
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MIDDLE SCHOOL IMPACT WEEKEND: October 2-4, 2026
Calling all youth entering 6th–8th grade! Join us for an exciting weekend at Camp Guggenheim designed just for middle school students. Experience fun outdoor activities, high-energy games, inspiring talks, praise and worship, prayer and new friendships—all while discovering how much God loves you.
Whether you're coming with friends or meeting new ones, Middle School Impact Weekend is the perfect opportunity to grow in faith, have an amazing time and make memories that will last long after the weekend ends.
Cost: $100 (Financial Aid Available)
Register at www.rcdony.org/msleadership
Space is limited and slots are filling fast!
Contact for More Information: Patrick Looby Email and or Phone Number: plooby@rcdony.org
NEW PARISH EVENTS AND NOTIFICATIONS:
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PIPE ORGAN CONCERT: with Dr. Benjamin Stone (Canton)
St. Mary's Church in Canton is proud to host an organ recital by Dr. Benjamin Stone in celebration of their 150th anniversary! Everyone is welcome to join for a free afternoon concert followed by an ice cream social. The concert will take place on Sunday, August 9th at 2 p.m. at St. Mary's Church (68 Court Street, Canton, NY 13617).
Benjamin A. Stone, a native of Potsdam, is Director of Liturgy and Music and Assistant Professor of Sacred Music at Sacred Heart Seminary and School of Theology in Hales Corners, Wisconsin.
Contact for More Information: Sarah McIntosh Email: cantonsec@rcdony.org Phone Number: 315-386-2543
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OUR LADY OF THE ADIRONDACKS HOUSE OF PRAYER: Summer Hours and Events
Weaving Prayer Throughout Our Days
Our Lady of the Adirondacks
House of Prayer
7270 Star Road, Route 190
Ellenburg Center
518-534-9976 (Sarah) or 518-594-3253 (House)
The House of Prayer is OUR House of Prayer, meaning it is open to all who love God. Volunteers
are available on premises to welcome you, and show you around this lovely quiet home of our
Lady where Jesus is always present. Please think about coming for a visit!
SUMMER HOURS
2nd Tuesday of July, August, September, October Open from 11 a.m – 3 p.m. with Linda and Cheryl C., Volunteers
1st, 3rd, and 4th Thursdays of July, August, September, October Open from noon - 4 p.m. with Cheryl L. and Richard V., Volunteers
By appointment anytime: Please call 518-534-9976 (Sarah) or 518-416-9495 (Cheryl) to make arrangements to visit. Whether for an hour or an overnight or several nights, you are always welcome! We welcome small group meetings and retreats as well!
EVENTS
Soaking Prayer with Eve McGill: 2nd Thursday of July, August, September, October: 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. (bring a bag lunch). Mass is celebrated at 4 p.m. with Father Bill Edwards followed by the House of Prayer's monthly Board meeting. Guests are welcome.
Foundation Day Celebration: Saturday, August 8th 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Music with Perry Provost,Program with Deacon Ken Lushia and Mass celebrated with The Most Reverend Terry R. LaValley, Bishop of Ogdensburg. Luncheon to follow (RSVP 518-534-9976 or 518-594-3253)
Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary/Day of Reflection with Father Roy Tverdik, SMM: Saturday, August 15th. Light luncheon provided. (Please call to register - more details below)
Day of Reflection with Marika Donders Saturday, August 22nd, Light luncheon provided.
Contact for More Information: Sarah Anderson, OFS Email: chazysarahofs@gmail.com
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SPAGHETTI & MEATBALL DINNER: Knights Of Columbus Fundraiser (Evans Mills)
Spaghetti & Meatball Dinner to Benefit of Indian River Council 7471 Knights of Columbus, Saturday, September 12, from 4 to 7 p.m. at St. Mary's Parish Center in Evans Mills. Menu includes spaghetti, meatballs, salad, bread, dessert and beverage.
Contact for More Information: Kareta Olshfski Phone Number: 315-629-4678
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ST AUGUSTINE'S APPLEFEST: A Great Family Event
Peru, NY - Join your family and friends on Saturday, September 19, at the 48th Annual St. Augustine's Applefest. People from near and far enjoy the community parade, craft fair, thrift store sales, food treats, live music, chicken BBQ, games, and raffles. Rev. Alan Shnob is Parade Grand Marshal.
Activities at St. Augustine's Parish Center begin at 10:30 a.m. At 11 a.m., the community parade begins its route down Main Street, from Peru Elementary to St. Augustine’s Parish Center at 3030 Main St. People look forward to the apple fritters, chicken BBQ, fried dough, caramelized apples, michigans, sweet sausages, burgers, games, train ride, face painting, bounce house, Pipes and Drums of Plattsburgh, and the On Three Band. Roger's House and St. Vincent DePaul have sales throughout the day. The Grand Raffle drawing takes place at 4 p.m.
Contact for More Information: JOHN RYAN Email: johnryan6dale@gmail.com Phone Number: 518-420-8696
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OLA FAITH FILLED DAY: Our Lady of the Adirondacks House of Prayer, Ellenburg Center
Our Lady of the Adirondacks House of Prayer
7270 Star Road, Route 190 - Ellenburg Center, NY
Saturday, August 15 at 10 a.m.
Father Roy Tvrdik, SMM will be leading us in a morning talk and reflection on the Jewish Roots of the Holy Spirit and the Holy Spirt in Salvific History.
This will be follow by Celebration of the Holy Mass of the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
A delicious summer luncheon for all to enjoy immediately follows the Mass.
Then in the afternoon Father Tvrdik will be leading us in a talk and reflection on the blessed Virgin Mary. As part of this talk and reflection, anyone interested will be led in the St. Louis de Montfort’s Consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. The most current book edition detailing this Consecration will be available. RSVP to Sarah at 518-534-9976
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ALPHA - AN INVITATION TO ENCOUNTER: St. Agnes Church - Lake Placid - Sundays at 11:15 a.m. Starting Sept. 20
Are you longing to deepen your faith, reconnect with the Church, or simply create space to ask life's important questions? Alpha offers a welcoming place to gather with others for conversation, friendship, and discovery.
Each session includes a shared meal, an engaging video, and honest, respectful discussion in a relaxed and hospitable environment. Whether your faith is strong, you're returning after time away, or you're simply seeking more, you'll find that every question and every person is welcome.
Many people find that Alpha becomes a place where faith comes alive, relationships are formed, and hearts are opened to what God is doing.
Consider joining us this Fall—or better yet, invite someone to come with you. Often, a simple invitation can become the beginning of something life-changing! Alpha starts on September 20th and runs each Sunday until December 6th. It's completely FREE and includes a delicious home cooked lunch each week.
Contact for More Information: Debra Lennon Email: lennondebra26@gmail.com Phone Number: 518-524-4388
No other new parish events were submitted. Please check your parish bulletins and previously posted submissions below.
NEW FROM NEIGHBORING DIOCESES
TRANSFORMATIVE OPPORTUNITIES: August through September Retreats
What might God be saying to you if you simply made time to listen? Consider giving yourself the gift of a retreat this year at Notre Dame Retreat House.
For upcoming events and retreats see: https://www.notredameretreat.org/
Contact for More Information: Nancy Lynch Email: info@notredameretreat.org
Reminder: We cannot publish parish flyers with graphics, except for those advertising certain national programs which provide free graphics for publication.
REGULAR FEATURES:
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SAFE ENVIRONMENT CORNER
To promote healing and reconciliation with victims/survivors of sexual abuse, the Diocese has a long-standing relationship with Terrianne Yanulavich, Ph.D. LMHC, who serves as the Diocesan Victim Assistance Coordinator. Dr. Yanulavich provides compassionate pastoral care to aid in the healing process and will report any received allegations to local authorities to ensure justice is served. Dr. Yanulavich can be reached at (518) 569-0612.
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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.
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ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP:
for the August 16 Bulletin
Mid-summer is when vegetables and several types of fruits become ready to harvest here in the North Country. Supporting local farm stands is a great way to acquire fresh produce rather than purchasing these items from a large supermarket. Shopping for local foods is a great way of not only reducing your carbon footprint, but also in obtaining food that has not been exposed to the chemical treatments used to extend their shelf-life.
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ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP:
August 23 bulletin
Eco-Spirituality calls us to focus on the ways in which God is seen and experienced in the world around us. It is a way of attuning ourselves to the Holy Spirit, the "Lord and Giver of Life," who is still active in the world — both within and beyond the human family — and draws near to us in divine intimacy.
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BREAKTHROUGH HEALING WORKSHOP FOR ALL FAMILIES: Cape Vincent
Save the date ….
August 6 – 8, Breakthrough Healing Workshop at St. Vincent of Paul in Cape Vincent
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.
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FOUNDATION DAY AT OUR LADY OF THE ADIRONDACKS: Come Join the Annual Celebration of Our Treasured House of Prayer Saturday, August 8th.
The day begins at 9:30 a.m. with special music by Permelia Provost, followed by a program at 10 a.m. from Deacon Kenneth Lushia on the topic of "Dying A Good Death," part of which features a short video from Father Joseph Mary Wolfe with the Franciscan Missionaries of the Eternal Word. At 11 a.m., we are once again privileged to have The Rev. Terry R. LaValley, Bishop of Ogdensburg, to celebrate Mass. All are invited to stay for a delicious summer luncheon after the Mass.
The House of Prayer is YOUR House of Prayer...open to anyone for private retreats, group retreats and meetings or just to come and spend a couple of hours with the Lord. If you have driven by but never stopped or if you are a regular...Saturday, August 8, is waiting for you to step through the blue doors! We are located at 7270 Star Road, Route 190, in Ellenburg Center. You may RSVP to Sarah at 518-534-9976, but if you forget, come anyway!
Contact for More Information: Sarah Anderson, OFS Email and or Phone Number: chazysarahofs@gmail.com
AN EVENING OF SACRED MUSIC: at St. Mary's Church, Clayton NY
Join St. Mary’s music ministry and youth choir on Sunday, August 9, at 4 p.m. at St. Mary's church in Clayton for an evening of sacred choral music, scripture readings, and solo performances. This concert is a free event, but a goodwill offering to support our music ministry will be available at the door.
Contact for More Information: 315 686 3398 or emailcorrinefwillis@gmail.com
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ST. JAMES SCHOOL SUMMER RAFFLE: Gouverneur
St. James School 2026 SUMMER RAFFLE
Grand Prize: $10,000
2nd Prize : $5,000
3rd Prize: $2,500
4th Prize: $1,500
5th Prize: $500
GRAND PRIZE DRAWING WILL BE HELD ON SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, AT 12:30 p.m.
TICKETS SOLD DONATION PRICE OF $100 EACH
Tickets will be available at Gouverneur St. James School office and Gouverneur St. James Church office.
Contact for More Information: Kelley Miller Email: gouverneursec@rcdony.org Phone Number: 315-287-0114
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ST. MARY'S GALA: St. Mary's Church, Clayton
Grand Prize: $10,000; four $500 prizes. Winner need not be present to win. All winning tickets will be returned to drum and be eligible for all 6 prizes!
Where: Cerow Arena at the Town of Clayton Recreation Park
When: Tuesday, August 4, 5:30 - 10 p.m.
Ticket Price: $100. Each ticket includes dinner for two, hors d’ouvres, two coupons for one drink each, coffee, and dessert (sorry, no take-outs).
Tickets Available at St. Mary’s Parish Office (521 James Street, Clayton) or by phone at 315-686-3398.
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ST.MARY'S/ST.AUGUSTINE's ALTAR ROSARY FUNDRAISER BUS TRIP: to Sights And Sounds Lancaster, PA To See Joshua
DON'T MISS THIS YEAR'S PRESENTATION OF JOSHUA SEPT 14-16, 2026
If you have never seen a Sights and Sound play, you will not be disappointed. Two other big highlights are an Amish dinner and Chalk Talk by Elva Hurst. Double $605 each, Triple $575 each Single $804.
Package includes: lodging, two breakfasts, two dinners, performance of Joshua at Sight and Sound Theatre, Chalk Talk, Bird in Hand Farmers Market, Bass Pro Shop and Outlets, Souvenir gift, Motorcoach Transportation, taxes and gratuities.
Pickups in Brushton, Potsdam, Canton, Watertown
Contact for More Information: Gayla LePage 518-569-3612 or email luer913@hotmail.com
NOTE CORRECTED PHONE NUMBER!
CELEBRATION OF LOVE AND MARRIAGE: All married couples and their families
We invite all married couples and their families to join us at the annual Celebration of Love and Marriage Mass on Sunday, September 20, at 2:30 p.m. at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Ogdensburg. Bishop LaValley will be presiding. Whether you have been married for less than 1 year, over 50 years or anywhere in between, we want to acknowledge your commitment and celebrate with you. Married couples who wish to receive a certificate signed by Bishop LaValley and have their names appear in the program should register no later than September 11 at https://www.rcdony.org/jubilee. There will be a gathering with refreshments after the Mass.
Contact for More Information: Steve Tartaglia Email: startaglia@rcdony.org Phone Number: 315.393.2920
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DYING WITH CHRIST, LIVING WITH HOPE: Saturday, September 26 at St. Peter's Church, Plattsburgh
When we make a commitment to die with Christ, we can truly live with hope. Join in the day to learn about the new Physician Assisted Suicide law and how MAID has progressed throughout Canada. Discussions feature theologians and healthcare professionals giving perspectives on suffering, grief, dying and our Christian duty to care. The day will include guest speaker Jessica Rodgers, coalition director of Patients Rights Action Fund. Online registration at www.rcdony.org/livingwithhope $10 fee includes materials and lunch. Walk-ins welcome but preregistration helps with planning. If you're unable to attend but would like more information, please contact cminer@rcdony.org.
Contact for More Information: Colleen Miner Email: cminer@rcdony.org
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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
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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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RACHEL'S VINEYARD AFTER-ABORTION HEALING RETREAT: October 9-11 Guggenheim Lodge, Saranac Lake
Are you or a friend suffering after abortion? You aren't alone. Join others for a weekend of hope and healing. The retreat begins Friday evening and ends Sunday afternoon. $150 includes lodging, food and all retreat materials. Scholarships available. Confidential online registration at www.rcdony.org/pro-life/rv-retreat
Contact for More Information: Colleen Miner Email: cminer@rcdony.org Phone Number: 518-524-0774
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 August 16 for the August 18 edition of eNotes with bulletin information for the weekends of August 30 and September 6. 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.