April is Child Abuse Prevention Month

April is observed as Child Abuse Prevention Month a time to renew our commitment to the safety and dignity of every child. Here at Mary, Mother of Our Savior Parish, we recognize that this commitment is deeply personal. The wounds caused by abuse especially within the Church are real. They call us to honesty, vigilance, and ongoing conversion.

The Diocese of Syracuse remains committed to protecting children, young people, and vulnerable adults; supporting survivors with compassion; and ensuring all allegations are reported to civil authorities. Safe environment policies and required training for clergy, employees, and volunteers are essential safeguards that help foster accountability and protection. We also know that policies alone are not enough. Trust is rebuilt through transparency, consistency, and a willingness to listen. We stand with survivors. We pray for healing. And we remain committed to ensuring that our parish is a place where every person is safe, valued, and loved.

Healing Service for Survivors of Abuse

As part of Child Abuse Prevention Month, all are invited to an ecumenical healing service, “Invitation to God’s Healing Grace,” on Friday, April 17th at 6:30pm at Panasci Chapel, Le Moyne College.

This evening is intended as a sacred space for survivors of sexual abuse, their loved ones, and all who wish to stand in solidarity. Through prayer, Scripture, music, and a candlelit ritual, the service offers an opportunity for reflection, healing, and communal support. Bishop Douglas Lucia will be present to offer a homily and blessing an important sign of the Church’s commitment to listen, accompany, and walk with those who have been harmed. All are welcome.

Workshop: Healing After Betrayal (“Moral Injury”)

On Saturday, April 18th from 10:00am to 3:00pm, an educational workshop on “Moral Injury and Moral Healing Recovery After Betrayal” will be held at Panasci Chapel, Le Moyne College.

Led by Dr. Lisa Cataldo of Fordham University, this workshop will explore the deep spiritual and psychological impact of abuse within faith communities and offer practical tools for listening to and supporting survivors. The day will include breakout sessions, reflection, and a presentation of The Silencers, a powerful dramatic work addressing the silencing of survivors. This is an important opportunity not only to learn, but to grow in our capacity to respond with compassion, understanding, and responsibility.

“Blue Sunday” Mass for Healing

On Sunday, April 26th at 2:00pm, the Diocese of Syracuse will celebrate a special “Blue Sunday” Mass for Healing at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.

This Mass is part of the Church’s ongoing journey of reparation a commitment to prayer, healing, and solidarity with those who have suffered abuse. Celebrated during Child Abuse Prevention Month, it offers a meaningful opportunity to entrust survivors, their families, and our entire Church to the healing mercy of God. All are invited to participate in this important act of prayer and remembrance.

A Taste of Opera with the Mohawk Valley Choral Society

Sunday, May 3, 2026 at 3:00PM
Church of Our Lady of Lourdes of Mary, Mother of Our Savior Parish, 2222 Genesee Street, Utica.

TICKETS on sale in early April: $15 in advance or $20 at the door.

For reservations and/or further information, please call (315) 826-3092 OR contact the website at: www.mvchoral.org

Rosary Campus Working Group

Walking Together: Rosary Campus Working Group

In recent months, our parish has been engaged in a careful and prayerful process regarding the future of the Our Lady of the Rosary Campus. Throughout this time, one commitment has remained constant: to honor the deep faith, history, and relationships that have been formed there, and to walk forward together as one parish family.

As we continue in this moment of transition, Father Hage is forming a Rosary Campus Working Group and invites parishioners who feel called to assist with this effort to take part.

Wednesday, May 13th at 7:00PM (Seton Center)

• Planning prayerful and meaningful liturgical celebrations of thanksgiving
• Coordinating parish gatherings that honor the legacy of the Rosary community
• Helping to preserve and integrate Rosary’s sacred and devotional treasures into the life of our unified parish

This is a working group dedicated to planning and coordination, helping ensure that this moment in our parish’s life is marked by gratitude, reverence, and unity. If you have a particular love for the Rosary Campus or a desire to help our parish move forward in faith, your presence would be most welcome.

Liturgical Ministry Schedule

April 25th and 26th

Lectors:

• 4:00PM - Karen Freytag, Marianne Munson
• 8:15AM - Susan Palmieri, Jeanne Townsend
• 10:30AM - Sr. Jackie Jonas, Peggy O’Toole
• 5:00PM - Laura Simonelli

Eucharistic Ministers

• 4:00PM - JoAnne Hughes, Grace Leone, Susan Luker, Tom Luker, Janice Lutz, Marianne Monahan
• 8:15AM - Gemma Siringo, Frank Dubeck, Ed Gunn, Marybeth McCall, Mary Rogowski, Dominick Scavo
• 10:30AM - Herman VanHatten, Denise Yourdon, Kathy Quigley, Theressa Brindisi, Donna Davies, Nathanial Discavage
• 5:00PM - Shelly-Nunno Evans, Phyllis Petrillo

Totus Tuus is back!

Give your child the best week of their Summer Totus Tuus is Back!

This summer, give your children and grandchildren an experience of faith they will never forget. Totus Tuus Latin for “Totally Yours” is a dynamic Catholic youth program that brings together fun, friendship, and a deep encounter with Jesus Christ.

Hosted at Mary, Mother of Our Savior Parish from July 12–17, 2026, this week is led by a team of joyful college missionaries who make the faith come alive in a way that is engaging, energetic, and deeply meaningful.

This year, we are especially excited to offer Totus Tuus as a regional opportunity for the entire Greater Utica Area. Families from all parishes are warmly welcomed and encouraged to participate.

Throughout the week, young people experience games, music, prayer, and catechesis that help them not only learn about the faith, but truly encounter the Lord. In a world full of noise and distraction, Totus Tuus offers something different—a chance to grow in faith, build lasting friendships, and discover the joy of following Jesus.

Day Program (Grades 1–6)
Monday through Friday, 9:00am – 3:00pm
A joyful Catholic day camp filled with games, songs, and interactive learning that introduces children to the beauty of our faith.

Evening Program (Grades 7–12)
Sunday through Thursday, 7:00 – 9:00pm
A high-energy retreat experience with real conversations about life and faith, time for prayer and Adoration, and authentic Christian community.

What makes Totus Tuus especially powerful is the witness of the missionary team young adults who are joyful, relatable, and on fire for Christ. Their example often leaves a lasting impression on our young people.

“Totus Tuus was the highlight of our child’s summer. They came home excited about their faith.”

We encourage you to invite a friend this experience is even more meaningful when shared.

How to Register

Space is limited and programs often fill quickly early registration is strongly encouraged.

• Day Program (Grades 1–6): Click here
• Evening Program (Grades 7–12): Click here
• All program options: Click here

If you’ve ever wondered how to help your child grow in their faith, this is one of the best opportunities we offer all year. Come and see what the Lord can do in the life of your child

Young Adult Ministry

Youth Ministry Nights – Open to All Area Teens

Teens from all parishes in the Greater Utica Area are invited to join us for Youth Ministry Nights every Monday at 6:30pm at the Seton Center at Mary Mother of Our Savior Parish, 2 Barton Ave., Utica.

We have a dedicated youth ministry space where teens can encounter Christ, grow in authentic friendships, and have fun in a welcoming environment.

All teens are welcome Catholic, non-Catholic, or simply exploring faith. Invite your child, grandchild, niece, nephew, or neighbor to come and see!

For more information or questions, please contact Nate Discavage at ndiscavage@syrdio.org

Family Catechesis Newsletter

April Sessions:

• April 19, 2026: 9:15-10:15 AM at NDE Elementary School
• April 26, 2026: 9:15-10:15 AM at NDE

Contact Information:
Jill Grise Catechetical Leader Pre-K-6
Email: jgrise@syrdio.org

Events and Devotions

Thursday, April 16th

• 6:00pm, Safe Environment Training at Seton
• 7:00pm, Choir Practice at Lourdes

Saturday, April 18th

• 11:00am, AA Meeting at Seton Center
• 3:00pm until 3:45pm, Confessions at Lourdes

Sunday, April 19th, DONUT SUNDAY!!!

• 9:15am, Family Life Catechesis at NDE
• 9:15am, First Communion Prep at Seton Ctr.
• 11:45pm, Baptism at Lourdes
• 12:15pm, Confirmation Prep at Seton Center
• 6:00pm, Utica Newman Outreach at Rosary

Monday, April 20th

• 8:45am, Novena at Lourdes
• 6:30pm, Youth Ministry Night at Seton Ctr

Tuesday, April 21st

• 8:45am, Novena at Rosary
• 9:00am, Community Building & Outreach Committee Meeting at Rosary
• 6:15pm, Finance Council Mtg at Seton Ctr.

Wednesday, April 22nd

• 9:30am, Baptism Liturgy at Lourdes
• 5:15pm, Holy Hour w/Vespers at Lourdes
• 5:30pm until 6:30pm, Confessions at Lourdes

Thursday, April 23rd

• 11:30am Christ Child Society at Seton Ctr.
• 6:00pm, Engaged/Newly Wed Couples Dinner at Seton Center
• 7:00pm, Choir Practice at Lourdes

Saturday, April 25th

• 11:00am, Mother-Daughter Tea at Seton Ctr.
• 11:00am, AA Meeting at Lawler Hall
• 3:00pm until 3:45pm, Confessions at Lourdes

Sleep in Heavenly Peace

NO KID SLEEPS ON THE FLOOR IN OUR TOWN

In our community, we believe every child deserves a safe and comfortable place to rest. That’s the mission behind No Kid Sleeps on the Floor in Our Town, a local effort led by the Utica Chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace.

Founded in 2021, the Utica Chapter serves families throughout Oneida and southern Herkimer counties. In just a few short years volunteers have built and delivered over 2900 handmade twin beds, each one complete with a mattress and all the necessary bedding. These beds provide not just comfort but dignity, security and hope for children in need.

The need, however, continues. The chapter is currently seeking donations of new twin bedding, including sheets, pillows and comforters. Donations can be made easily through their Amazon gift list by searching SHP UTICA.

To learn more about this inspiring ministry or to get involved, please visit shpbeds.org or follow Sleep in Heavenly Peace - Utica, NY on Facebook.

Physical donations may also be placed near Evanna’s Table at the Seton Grotto.

Together, we can ensure that no child in our community has to sleep on the floor. Thank you for your generosity and support.

Required Minimum Distributions (RMD’s)

Help Ensure the Long-Term Vitality of Mary, Mother of Our Savior with a Legacy Gift

Please remember Mary, Mother of Our Savior in your Estate Planning, Trust and/or with your annual Required Minimum Distributions (RMD’s).

Your Bequest, Trust, or RMD may be Restricted (Building, Music Ministry, Outreach, etc.) or Unrestricted (for ongoing needs in the parish).

As always, thank you for our Ongoing Support of Mary, Mother of Our Savior

Safe Environment Training

A friendly but important reminder for all liturgical ministers.

All Liturgical Ministers are required to be enrolled in the Diocesan Safe Environment Training in order to continue serving in the parish.

Those who serve as Eucharistic Ministers must be registered to remain active in this ministry, and those who serve as Lectors must complete their training by June 30, 2026.

Training is available for both Initial Training and Recertification. If you have completed the Initial Training at any time in the past, you only need to complete the Recertification. All training sessions are listed on the Diocese website under the heading “Safe Environment.”

If you need assistance with signing up, please call the Parish Office at (315) 724-3155 and ask for Christine.

We are happy to help. This is an excellent and informative training, and we are deeply grateful for your continued generosity and faithful service in this ministry.

Sanctuary Memorials

Monthly Memorials for April

• The gift of Bread has been given in memory of Philip N. & Gloria Sciortino by loving Daughter
• The gift of Candles has been given in memory of Elizabeth Protosow by Mom and Dad
• The gift of Wine has been given in memory of Maria Felice Gigliotti by Children