May the Lord’s grace and peace be with you and your loved ones.
We’re excited to share some joyful news and meaningful opportunities unfolding within our parish community. As we begin a new season of faith, we send this message with open hearts and prayerful hope—for you, your family, and those you care about.

A New Chapter: Pope Leo XIV
The recent election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born Pope, has ushered in a renewed sense of hope and unity. Raised in Chicago and shaped by missionary work in Peru, Pope Leo brings relatable leadership and heartfelt conviction to a Church yearning for healing and connection. He reminds us: “Without fear, united, hand in hand with God and among ourselves, we will go forward.”  His papacy isn’t just historic, it’s deeply personal. It’s a sign that the Church is ready to walk with us again and meet us where we are.

A Time to Return!
As Faith Formation begins this September, we lovingly invite everyone, especially those who may have stepped away—to reflect, reconnect, and re-engage. If you’ve felt distant from the Church, this is your moment.
You are missed. You are wanted. You are welcome.

We understand that many who will read this letter are devout Catholics and your Faith is securely grounded, but maybe you know someone who has stepped away from the Church. Let’s begin by reaching out to those in our lives, a neighbor, a friend, or a relative who has quietly drifted away. Your invitation could be the gentle nudge that helps them return. Sometimes, all it takes is a caring word or a simple invitation from someone they trust. That someone could be you.

Faith Formation Classes Start:
• Grades 7–10: Sunday, September 21 at 9:30 AM
• Grades 1–6: Monday, September 22 at 6:00 PM

All Classes are held at St. Mary’s Parish Center, Minoa, NY

Registration Forms are available on website at https://www.faithalive1.com/faith_formation  at all three parishes, our Parish Offices or by emailing Gary Krajacic at gkrajacic@syrdio.org and we will email you a registration form.

OCIA Invitation
Beginning in September, we also offer OCIA (formerly known as RCIA), stands for the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults. —a welcoming path for:
• Those never baptized
• Christians from other traditions seeking full communion
• Baptized Catholics who haven’t received all sacraments
Wherever you’re starting from, the Church is ready to walk with you.
Worship With Us
We invite you to not only reconnect through Faith Formation and parish events—but to come worship with us. Celebrating the Mass is the heart of our Catholic identity, and we’d love for you to join us at any of our weekend liturgies:

• Saturday Vigil – 4:30 PM at St. Matthew’s, East Syracuse
• Sunday Morning – 8:00 AM at St. Matthew’s, East Syracuse
• 9:30 AM at St. Francis, Bridgeport
• 11:00 AM at St. Mary’s, Minoa

Whether you’re returning, exploring, or simply seeking peace, Mass is where Christ waits to meet you—body, blood, soul, and divinity. The Church isn’t the same without you.

Parish Life: Events Throughout the Year
There’s always something meaningful, joyful, or just plain fun happening across our three parishes. Here’s a glimpse of some of our annual and seasonal events that help bring our community together:
• Thursday Night Bingo – Weekly at St. Francis Parish Center
• Drive-Through Chicken Dinners – Preorder dates announced seasonally
• Casino Night – A fall favorite at the American Legion
• Election Day Fish Fry & Spaghetti Dinner – Held at St. Mary’s and St. Francis every November
• Breakfast with Santa & the Easter Bunny – Family events at St. Mary’s Parish Center
• Mystery Dinner Theatre – A creative night of fun and fellowship
• Holiday Outreach Programs – Help spread warmth through charitable giving and service.

From faith formation to fellowship, liturgy to laughter—you belong in every moment. If you are discerning your faith Future call our Parish Office (315-437-8318) and they can put you in touch with a member of our staff
Come Home
Wherever you are on your journey—you are seen, cherished, and never forgotten.
The Church is praying for your return. Not just to a building, but to the embrace of a God who has never stopped loving you. In worship, in friendship, and in faith, you belong here.

Peace, hope, and the joy of coming home await.
With gratitude and prayer,
The Faith Formation Ministry

Peace be with You!