Rev. Pawel L. Zmija (Homilist)
From Good Friday thru Easter Saturday
(April 3rd thru April 11th)
On Divine Mercy Sunday, the Church offers the faithful the grace of a plenary indulgence the complete remission of temporal punishment due to sin. To receive this gift, one should receive Holy Communion, pray for the intentions of the Holy Father, and be free from all attachment to sin, even venial sin. One must also participate in Divine Mercy devotion (such as the Chaplet) or pray before the Blessed Sacrament, reciting the Our Father and the Creed and adding a prayer such as, “Jesus, I trust in You.”
Confession (Key Clarification): According to the Apostolic Penitentiary, Sacramental Confession does not need to take place on Divine Mercy Sunday itself. Rather, it may be received within about 20 days before or after the feast, provided one is in the state of grace on Divine Mercy Sunday.
This means that if you celebrated the Sacrament of Reconciliation during Holy Week, and you fulfill the other conditions, you may still receive the plenary indulgence on Divine Mercy Sunday. This generous provision reflects the Church’s desire that all the faithful may confidently receive this great gift of Divine Mercy.
On this Second Sunday of Easter, the Church cele brates Divine Mercy Sunday a day that draws us into the very heart of the Gospel: the infinite, unfailing mercy of God.
Before we can do anything for God, we are already loved by Him. Before we succeed or fail… before we prove ourselves or fall short… before we even think to turn toward Him God’s love is already there. We are not first measured by our performance. We are beloved.
Are you new to Mary, Mother of Our Savior Parish?
Our pastor and members of our Hospitality Committee would love to welcome you.
As part of our parish’s commitment to hospitality and welcome, we invite you to a relaxed Sunday Brunch Gathering where you can meet fellow parishioners, connect with parish leaders, and begin building friendships within our parish family.
Enjoy light brunch refreshments and good conversation. No speeches. No pressure. Just a chance to get to know one another.
Whether you recently registered or are still getting to know the parish, we would be happy to meet you. At Mary, Mother of Our Savior Parish, we want every person to feel known, welcomed, and connected.
We look forward to welcoming you!
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.
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.
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.
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.
All are warmly invited to a special Mother’s and Grandmother’s Day Tea. This joyful gathering is a beautiful opportunity to honor and celebrate the women who have blessed our lives.
The event is free of charge.
Bring your mother’s, grandmothers and loved ones - or come on your own and our parish family is here to welcome you with open arms. Guests will enjoy a delightful selections of teas, finger sandwiches and desserts. Children are invited to participate in creating a special keepsake to take home, making this a meaningful event for all ages.
Please RSVP to the parish office at (315) 724-3155 to let us know how many in your family will be attending.
We look forward to celebrating this fun day with you!
Tickets $100 – Only 3000 Tickets Available!
Tickets are $100 ea. And must be purchased by individuals 18 years or older in-person. Present ticket for admission of 2 attendees. Winners are responsible for tax requirements. Need not be present to win!
For full details, please visit: notredameutica.org/raffle
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.
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.
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
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.
Contact Information:
Jill Grise Catechetical Leader Pre-K-6
Email: jgrise@syrdio.org
This Easter, as we celebrate the Resurrection, we are reminded that God is still at work drawing people back, renewing hearts, and inviting each of us into deeper faith. Your generosity helps make that possible. Through your Easter offering, our parish is able to celebrate reverent liturgies, accompany families and those returning to the Church, offer opportunities for spiritual growth, and extend Christ’s care to those in need. Together, we are helping others encounter the risen Jesus.
Please consider a special Easter gift.
| Sign up today |
Thank you for sharing in the mission of the Resurrection.
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
“The master has need of them”.
Have you ever entertained the idea that Christ might have need of you to labor in his vineyard?
Email: vocations@syrdio.org and follow us on Instagram vocationssyracuse.
If you would like to add a name, please call the Office at (315) 724-3155.
Arabella Zastrow, Laura B., A & C. Roberts, Jane, Joe and Sylvia S., Madison Viggiano, Amy, Christine Wil-liams, Bob V., Teresa Bushinger, Mary Ann Looney, Sr. Lois, Leo James Mastin, Larry Schecter, Maryellen, Judy, Dylan G., Connie M., Amy S.,Serena C., Gloria A. Stephen B., Joe Pogle, May M., Laurie H., Gary Werner, Judy Williams, Melissa M, Anna N, Joseph E. Albanese, Courtney S., Grady B. , , William Latour, James T. Kane, Beverly Kane, Genevieve, Krista M., Patricia Spost, Annette Woroszylo, Josephine Gargash, Joanne G., Steve Getz, James Car-roll, Kevin Bedford, Lorraine T., John Baker, Greg Tietje, Mary Alice Hebert, Annette Dempsey, Melissa E, Gavin Jerzak, Fred Abounader, Louann Swire, Don Kratzenberg, Sarah Grogan and family, Alfred Combellack, Judith Combellack, Anthony Perrone, Bernie Solan, Greig Cardillo, Tim K., Zachary Wing, Laura Roddy, Pete Edic, Richard Thomas, Jennifer B., Hannah, Jim Toomey, Marty Green, Fr. Don Karlen, Joseph P. Kearney, Mary Pota, Brian M. Dunn & Family, Lianne Sajdzikowski, Sean O’Toole, Constance Zogby, Mary Ann LaPorte