Bulletin Announcement: Oil City

Parenting Pointers 5-17-2026
Use this in your 05/17/2026 bulletin
Who’s the parent in your household? Sometimes it is the child who trains the parent – to comply when the toddler fusses, to give in if the child whines, to give permission if the teen pesters long enough. It might seem easier at the moment, but teach your child that “No” does not simply mean complain more and you’ll get what you want.

Wedding Anniversary Celebration with Bishop Persico 5-17-2026
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Each year, the Diocese of Erie is honored to celebrate milestone anniversaries with couples throughout our 13-county diocese. Couples celebrating their 25th, 40th, 50th, 60th or 60+ anniversary are invited to take part in this special recognition of the Sacrament of Marriage and their commitment to one another.

Due to some unexpected medical circumstances within the Faith Formation Office, the details for the 2026 Wedding Anniversary Celebrations are not yet finalized. As information is available, updates will be shared. To stay up to date on news and happenings, please visit www.ErieRCD.org.

A Family Perspective 5-17-2026
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Just as Jesus appointed apostles, He also appoints parents to represent Him in the family. “Make disciples of your children, baptizing and teaching them all I have taught you. Don't worry, I am with you always."

05/17/2026 Post IVF Ministry
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Shiloh IVF Ministry is a new outreach ministry with the mission to offer companionship and practical steps to help discern how to care for embryonic children, and to offer overall healing in the aftermath of IVF. Shiloh IVF Ministry offers one-on-one mentorship, Scriptural meditation, education, testimonies, honoring for embryonic children, and more. Learn more and begin your post-IVF healing journey at www.shilohivf.com.

Marriage Moment 5-17-2026
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Has life handed you a set back? No matter how bad the situation, don’t take it out on each other. Face it side by side, not pointing a finger at each other. Find something to learn from your mistake or predicament.

Marriage Moment 5-24-2026
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(Memorial Day) To serve country, spouse, or God is to give your life because of your love. Dying for country, spouse, or God is a great sacrifice, but sacrificing time and spending energy in the service of your beloved counts too. Serve your spouse in an unexpected way today.

A Family Perspective 5-24-2026
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Like the disciples in today's gospel, there are times when we shut the doors of our hearts to people or events, creating emotional distance. However, permanent distancing is harmful and prevents us from experiencing the PEACE that Jesus offers us today.

05/24/2026 Pregnancy Loss
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Did you know that “10 to 20 percent of known pregnancies end in miscarriage” (Mayo Clinic)? Couples mourning the loss of a child before or at birth are in our families, among our friends, and in our pews. They need to know that the life of their child (or children) matters, and that they have the support of their parish community during this time of mourning. Show these couples your support by listening to them, praying for them, bringing them a meal, reminding them that God is with them, and that they are not alone. For more resources and support, visit www.springsinthedesert.org.

Milestone Anniversary Celebrations 5-245-2026
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Parenting Pointers 5-24-2026
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“Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written.” (Jn 21:25) Many parents keep a log of their kids’ accomplishments – especially for the first child and during the first year of life. If you haven’t done this for awhile, jot down a few milestones for posterity this week.

Parenting Pointers 5-31-2026
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Do you ever talk behind your child’s back? Sometimes this isn’t all bad. If your son or daughter “accidentally” overhears a compliment it can carry extra sincerity. If it’s a warning it may defuse defensiveness. If you’re just floating an idea, it can open later dialogue before making a commitment.

05/31/2026 Secondary Infertility
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We all know couples who desire to have children but struggle with infertility. But have you ever heard of “secondary infertility”? It’s a term that may not be familiar, but it’s an experience of infertility that can be uniquely isolating. Couples struggling with secondary infertility have one or more children but also have difficulty expanding their families. We can support these couples by refraining from making assumptions about their family size, avoiding intrusive questions, and affirming their marriages and the gift of their parenthood. For more resources and support, visit www.springsinthedesert.org.

A Family Perspective 5-31-2026
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Just as the Father 'sent His Son into the world,” parents send their children into the world “so that the world might be saved.” This is the missionary role of the Christian family. Your family is a school where your children develop convictions that enable them to make a difference in the world. Parenting is an awesome responsibility, not for the weak or transient.

Marriage Moment 5-31-2026
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Praying together feels awkward to me. Praying in the morning sounds inhuman. If morning is not your strength, maybe it fits your spouse better and he/she could take the lead, gently wake you, and read the scripture of the day. Even if you’re still groggy, sometimes just showing up is a form of prayer.

Parenting Pointers 6-7-2026
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Speaking of Sex: Part 1 of 4. It’s the season of birds, bees and planting seeds. When should you start talking to your child about sex? Sooner than you might think – when your child can understand simple language. Always convey awe and respect for our God-given capacity to create a new human being.

Marriage Moment 6-7-2026
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Talking is not always the same as communication. Talk can be irrelevant and cheap. Being a person of one’s word and following through with action makes communication true. “Let us love not in word or speech but in deed and truth.” (1 John 3:18)

A Family Perspective 6-7-2026
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Parenting is a Eucharistic activity because, from the first moment of conception, children receive life from us. Without our self-sacrifice, our children would not have life. This is the paschal mystery of parenting: Christ is present in each act of self-sacrifice.

06/07/2026 Fruitfulness
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Did you know that fruitfulness is the task of every Christian? It is a creative cooperation with God through acts of service, our prayers for those in need, and communion with others. The call to be life-giving can seem challenging for couples who are experiencing infertility, but through their openness to the gift of life, husband and wife entrust their marriage and any fruit it bears to God. Importantly, a marriage’s capacity for fruitfulness is not limited to bearing and raising children! Couples walking this path can still be life-giving in a season of waiting, and in their faithful carrying of this cross, they are witnesses in their community to the goodness of marriage. For more resources and support, visit www.springsinthedesert.org.

Child Protection 6-14-2026
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Child Protection and Creating Safe Environments- Teach Children to Protect Themselves at Home Keeping kids safe starts at home. Talk to your children about simple ways they can protect themselves: Know who’s at the door – Never open it for strangers. Keep personal info private – Don’t share your name, address, or phone number with anyone you don’t know. Emergency contacts – Make sure your child knows how to reach you and call 911 if needed. Safe boundaries – teach them to say “no” to anything that makes them uncomfortable. Online safety – Remind them not to share personal details or passwords online. Open conversations build confidence and help kids make smart choices when you’re not around. For more tips and resources, visit, www.eriercd.org/childprotection/ .

Parenting Pointers 6-14-2026
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Speaking of Sex: Part 2 of 4. When bathing a toddler, name the parts of the body as you clean them. “Now we’re cleaning your penis. Now we’re cleaning your vagina…”

A Family Perspective 6-14-2026
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The "troubled and abandoned" children in our world are like "sheep without a shepherd." Today, Jesus asks that our hearts be moved with pity for these children. He reminds us, "Without cost you received; without cost you must give. Go to the lost sheep."

Marriage Moment 6-14-2026
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Be deliberate about saying “no” to some things so you can open up time for a regular date night. Saying “no” to one thing allows you to say “yes” to other more important things. So what really IS important to you?

Marriage Moment 6-21-2026
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Summer officially begins today. Do something “hot” for your spouse. It might be a hot meal in a cool place, hot clothes for a romantic date, or just hot popcorn and conversation. Be creative.

A Family Perspective 6-21-2026
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In today's gospel, Jesus says "Do not be afraid" three times and reminds us that "all concealed secrets will be revealed." Do not fear acknowledging problems in your family. If they remain "hidden in darkness," they can "destroy body and soul." Healing, understanding, and hope are found only "in the light" of openness. "Do not be afraid."

06/21/2026 Father’s Day
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For Catholics struggling with infertility and miscarriage, Father’s Day can be hard, especially because so much of the focus on these crosses often centers on women. Husbands also feel the grief of losing a child, and they experience many of the same complex emotions around infertility as their wives. Men and women may process the meaning of these crosses differently, but they carry them together. This Father’s Day, let’s honor all the men in our lives who provide strong role models for young and old alike through their strength, faith, and instinct to protect. For infertility resources and accompaniment, visit www.springsinthedesert.org.

(Can also be run 6/14/2026)

Parenting Pointers 6-21-2026
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Speaking of Sex: Part 3 of 4. When your preschooler asks where babies come from, say something like, “Babies come from the special love that Mommy and Daddy have for each other when we hug each other in a special way that married couples do. The baby lives in mommy’s tummy until the baby is ready to come out. Isn’t it wonderful that God created us this way.” (adapt for adopted children or single parents.)

Wedding Anniversary Celebration with Bishop Persico 6-28-2026
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Diocesan Anniversary Celebrations for couples celebrating 25, 40, 50, 60 or more years of marriage in 2026 will be held at two locations in the Diocese of Erie this summer:

Sunday, August 23 at St. George, Erie at 2:00 pm

Sunday, August 30 at St. Leo Magnus, Ridgway at 2:00 pm

Couples and/or Parish staff may complete registration online at https://www.eriercd.org/familylifeoffice/anniv.html, calling their parish office or contact the Marriage and Family Life Office at (814) 824-1210. Registrations are being accepted until August 13 for the Erie celebration and until August 20 for the Ridgway celebration.

Marriage Moment 6-28-2026
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Stuck in an argument? Check these three areas:

Feelings: How do I feel? / How do you feel?
Wants: What do I want or need? / What do you want or need?
Actions: What can I do about it? / What can you do about it?

A Family Perspective 6-28-2026
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Today's gospel challenges us to resist the individualism of our culture. Everything we are and have is a pure gift, meant to be shared, especially with the "lowly ones." What has been freely given must be freely shared, with no strings attached.

Parenting Pointers 6-28-2026
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Speaking of Sex: Part 4 of 4. Introduce the concept that the father puts his sperm into the mother’s vagina before the child might get this information from peers or be titillated by it. That’s pretty young, probably before puberty. This allows the child to receive the facts on a neutral, non-emotional level, so you both have language and a history to talk about it later when hormones make it a more emotion laden topic.

A Family Perspective 7-5-2026
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Today's gospel emphasizes the call to be missionaries. Just as Jesus accepted his mission, parents embrace the mission of raising a family. This exhausting and challenging vocation is not one they face alone. Jesus invites us to find solace in Him, saying, "Come to me, and I will give you rest."

A Family Perspective 7-12-2026
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The stress and anxieties of family life can be like "thorns that choke off" any opportunity to reflect on God's presence in our lives. In today's gospel, Jesus "went out of the house" to connect with the people He loved. Take five minutes each day to appreciate the people you love.

Wedding Anniversary Celebration with Bishop Persico 7-12-2026
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Diocesan Anniversary Celebrations for couples celebrating 25, 40, 50, 60 or more years of marriage in 2026 will be held at two locations in the Diocese of Erie this summer:

Sunday, August 23 at St. George, Erie at 2:00 pm

Sunday, August 30 at St. Leo Magnus, Ridgway at 2:00 pm

A Family Perspective 7-19-2026
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Parents instill values in their children, hoping that the tiny seeds of honesty, respect, commitment, and fidelity will grow with them and eventually become "a safe haven" for many.

Wedding Anniversary Celebration with Bishop Persico 7-26-2026
Use this in your 07/26/2026 bulletin

Diocesan Anniversary Celebrations for couples celebrating 25, 40, 50, 60 or more years of marriage in 2026 will be held at two locations in the Diocese of Erie this summer:

Sunday, August 23 at St. George, Erie at 2:00 pm

Sunday, August 30 at St. Leo Magnus, Ridgway at 2:00 pm

Couples and/or Parish staff may complete registration online at https://www.eriercd.org/familylifeoffice/anniv.html, calling their parish office or contact the Marriage and Family Life Office at (814) 824-1210. Registrations for the Erie celebration deadline was Registrations are being accepted until August 20 for the Ridgway celebration or until September 13 to be mailed to you.

A Family Perspective 7-26-2026
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In today's gospel, the man "sold all he had" for the treasure he found. Family relationships are true "treasures" that demand our total personal investment. Dedicate yourself fully to the "treasure" of your family.

A Family Perspective 8-2-2026
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The apostles were likely being practical when they asked Jesus to "dismiss the crowds" so they could buy food. However, Jesus knew that when we place our trust in the Father, there is always enough, even with just five loaves and two fish. Trust is the bridge to miracles.

Milestone Anniversary Celebrations 8-2-2026
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Couples celebrating 25^th, 40^th, 50^th, 60^th or more wedding anniversaries are invited to attend the annual Diocesan Anniversary Celebrations on Sunday, August 23 at St. George, Erie at 2:00 pm or Sunday, August 30 at St. Leo Magnus, Ridgway at 2:00 pm. Celebrations include Mass with Bishop Persico followed by a light reception. To register for either event or to receive a certificate by mail, complete the online registration at https://www.eriercd.org/familylifeoffice/anniv.html , contact your parish office, or contact the Marriage and Family Life Office at (814) 824-1210.
Registrations are accepted until August 14 for the Erie celebration, until August 20 for the Ridgway celebration or until September 13 to be mailed to you.

A Family Perspective 8-9-2026
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The demands of family can be so overwhelming that walking on water might seem easier. When Jesus felt pressured, He dismissed everyone to be "by Himself and pray." When you feel overwhelmed and stressed, find a quiet place and surrender your feelings to the Lord, using Peter's prayer from today's gospel: "Lord, save me."

Child Protection 8-9-2026
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Child Protection and Creating Safe Environments- Diocesan Requirements for working with children: The Diocese of Erie takes child safety seriously. Working with the Bishop, the Office for the Protection of Children and Youth ensures that policies and procedures are in place to protect children. All clergy, employees and volunteers who work with children must complete state mandated criminal record checks. They must also follow screening guidelines and complete abuse prevention training. These steps help ensure that everyone who has access to children in our schools and parishes is properly vetted and trained. Parents: stay vigilant! Make sure anyone who interacts with your child has completed the application process and obtained the required clearances and training. For details on what’s required for those working with children and youth in our parishes, schools, and agencies, visit: www.eriercd.org/childprotection/ .

Wedding Anniversary Celebration with Bishop Persico 8-9-2026
Use this in your 08/09/2026 bulletin

Diocesan Anniversary Celebrations for couples celebrating 25, 40, 50, 60 or more years of marriage in 2026 will be held at two locations in the Diocese of Erie this summer:

Sunday, August 23 at St. George, Erie at 2:00 pm

Sunday, August 30 at St. Leo Magnus, Ridgway at 2:00 pm

Couples and/or Parish staff may complete registration online at https://www.eriercd.org/familylifeoffice/anniv.html, calling their parish office or contact the Marriage and Family Life Office at (814) 824-1210. Registrations for the Erie celebration deadline was Registrations are being accepted until August 20 for the Ridgway celebration or until September 13 to be mailed to you.

Milestone Anniversary Celebrations 8-16-2026
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A Family Perspective 8-16-2026
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The mother in today's gospel persisted, even when she was ignored and insulted. She would do whatever was necessary to bring relief to her child. Parenting is not just about bringing life into the world; it is also about daily sacrifices for your children.

Give your loved ones the gift of Engagement Encounter 8/16/2026
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What better way to show your support of an upcoming marriage than with a gift that lasts a lifetime: Engagement Encounter. The next EE will be held at St. Mark Catholic Center, Erie February 5-7, 2026. Space is limited and early registrations are encouraged. Call the Family Life Office at 814-824-1261 or visit https://www.eriercd.org/familylifeoffice/ for more details and to register. Remember, “A wedding is one day, but marriage is for a lifetime.”

Milestone Anniversary Celebrations 8-23-2026
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Congratulations to couples celebrating their Milestone Anniversaries today at St. George, Erie!

Couples celebrating 25^th, 40^th, 50^th, 60^th or more wedding anniversaries are invited to attend the annual Diocesan Anniversary Celebration on Sunday, August 30 at St. Leo Magnus, Ridgway at 2:00 pm. Celebration includes Mass with Bishop Persico followed by a light reception. To register for this event or to receive a certificate by mail, complete the online registration at https://www.eriercd.org/familylifeoffice/anniv.html , contact your parish office, or contact the Marriage and Family Life Office at (814) 824-1210. Registrations are being accepted until August 20 for the Ridgway celebration or until September 13 to be mailed.

Consider Engagement Encounter! 8/23/2026
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Planning for your marriage in 2027? An Engagement Encounter is scheduled for February 5-7 at St. Mark Catholic Center in Erie. EE satisfies diocesan requirements for marriage in the Church. Space is limited, so please register early by calling 814-824-1261 or visit our Website at https://www.eriercd.org/familylifeoffice/ for more information and to register. Remember, “A wedding is one day, but marriage is for a lifetime.” Catholic and interfaith couples are encouraged to attend.

A Family Perspective 8-23-2026
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Like Jesus in today's gospel, we are perceived by others in various ways. However, those who know us best are usually our own family. Who do they say you are?

A Family Perspective 8-30-2026
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Relationships exist in a delicate balance. When one person changes, it requires an adjustment in the relationship. In today's gospel, Jesus announced a change, and Peter resisted. Sometimes, those we rely on for support can become obstacles. Jesus told Peter, "You are an obstacle to me."

Milestone Anniversary Celebrations 8-30-2026
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Congratulation to all couples celebrating their Milestone Anniversaries today at St. Leo Magnus, Ridgway.

Couples celebrating 25th, 40th, 50th, 60th or more wedding anniversaries are still welcome to receive a certificate mailed to you. Registrations are accepted through September 13. Couples and/or Parish staff may complete registrations online at https://www.eriercd.org/familylifeoffice/anniv.html, calling their parish office or contact the Marriage and Family Life Office at (814) 824-1210.

A Family Perspective 9-6-2026
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The key word in today's gospel is "listen." We cannot change another person—not alone, not with others, and not even with a whole Church. All we can do is state our position, and if they listen, they can take the necessary steps to change themselves. Change comes from within.

Milestone Anniversary Celebrations 9-6-2026
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Couples celebrating 25th, 40th, 50th, 60th or more wedding anniversaries are still welcome to receive a certificate mailed to you. Registrations will close on September 13. Couples and/or Parish staff may complete the registration online at https://www.eriercd.org/familylifeoffice/anniv.html, calling their parish office or contact the Marriage and Family Life Office at (814) 824-1210.

A Family Perspective 9-13-2026
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Holding onto a past wrong and hoping for a better past is futile. We must move on by accepting that we were unjustly treated and that it won't be corrected. This doesn't mean we condone the injustice; it means we refuse to let it control our lives any longer. Forgiveness is essential for living a healthy life in the present.

Child Protection 9-13-2026
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**Note: Please mail/email the September Parish Bulletin containing this announcement to the Office for the Protection of Children and Youth.

Child Protection and Creating Safe Environments- Diocese of Erie Child Protection Policies: Everyone that works and interacts with children should have clear boundaries in place. This includes rules like staying in public view and avoiding isolated one-on-one situations with children and ensuring that two or more adults are always paired together to work with children, as well as other guidelines found in the Policy for the Protection of Children. All those who minister to minors are screened, trained, and must follow the Policy that includes a Code of Conduct. To read the policy go to: https://www.eriercd.org/childprotection/policies-1.html. For additional information, contact the Office for the Protection of Children and Youth at 814-824-1195.

Milestone Anniversary Celebrations 9-13-2026
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A Family Perspective 9-20-2026
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Today, Jesus asks us, "Why are you idle? Go into my vineyard." Our family is the vineyard entrusted to us, as mentioned in today's gospel. Successful families are built by "laborers" who actively work on their relationships, not by spectators who merely watch from a distance.

9/27/2026 Invest in Your Future—Together
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“A wedding is one day, but marriage is for a lifetime.”

Before you say, “I do,” take time to focus on what truly matters—your future together. Engagement Encounter offers a meaningful weekend of reflection, connection, and preparation. The retreat is scheduled for February 5-7, 2027 at St. Mark Catholic Center, Erie, PA. All engaged couples are welcome. Call 814-824-1261 or email familylife@erieRCD.org. Details and Registration: https://www.eriercd.org/familylifeoffice/. Make this investment in your relationship, your future deserves it.

A Family Perspective 9-27-2026
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In today's gospel, Jesus asks, "What is your opinion?" We often mistake our opinions for dogma or fact, but they are merely our perceptions or feelings about a situation. Arguments over opinions can cause significant divides in families. Tread lightly on the opinions of others; the heart you break may be your own.

A Family Perspective 10-4-2026
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Every family faces difficult times that can either unite or divide them. These hardships, which we might quickly reject, have the potential to become the unifying "cornerstone" where we drop our pettiness and defenses, coming together through a common bond and love for one another.

10/4/2026 Consider Engagement Encounter!
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Getting married in 2027? Take time to invest in your future with an Engagement Encounter weekend, February 5-7, 2027 at St. Mark Catholic Center in Erie.

This retreat fulfills diocesan marriage preparation requirements and offers couples—Catholic and interfaith alike—a chance to deepen their connection before the big day.

Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged. Call the Family Life Office at 814-824-1261 or email: familylife@erieRCD.org. Details and registration: https://www.eriercd.org/familylifeoffice/

“A wedding is one day, but marriage is for a lifetime.”

Child Protection 10-11-2026
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Child Protection and Creating Safe Environments – October is Respect Life Month
Our faith reminds us that every human life is sacred. Protecting children, youth, and vulnerable adults is not just a responsibility – it’s a Respect Life issue that involves all of us. If you suspect or know of abuse, report it immediately. Speaking up can save lives and uphold the dignity of every person. For details on how to report child abuse, visit: www.eriercd.org/childprotection/ .

A Family Perspective 10-11-2026
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Today's gospel speaks about "unworthy wedding guests." What makes a "worthy" guest? Presence and presents are not enough. The greatest gift we can offer is our support to the couple as they journey through life together, navigating the inevitable fields of disappointment. Reflect on the weddings you have attended. Have you been a "worthy guest?"

Child Protection 11-8-2026
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Child Protection and Creating Safe Environments
November is designated National Homeless Youth Awareness Month, a critical time to raise awareness about the challenges facing young people experiencing homelessness. Annually approximately 1.2 million children under age 6 and 4.3 million youth and young adults experience homelessness. Youth without stable housing face a high risk of trauma, violence, substance abuse, sex trafficking and mental health issues. Homeless high school students were nearly twice as likely to consider suicide and over three times as likely to attempt it compared to housed students. You can help by supporting local shelters, outreach programs and advocating for policies that protect vulnerable youth. For more resources visit: www.eriercd.org/childprotection/.

Child Protection 12-13-2026
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Child Protection and Creating Safe Environments- Online Gaming Safety Tips
Online gaming is fun. It’s cool to compete against people from every corner of the world but online gaming can expose kids to risks like cyberbullying, harassment, and predators. Teach your child these safety tips: 1. Protect identity: Use a nickname and avoid real photos for avatars. 2. Keep personal info private: Never share phone numbers, addresses, school details, or age. 3. Mute chats: Prevent bullying and trash talk. 4. Block uncomfortable users: Don’t engage with anyone who feels unsafe. 5. Use parental controls: Manage safety and screen time. For more resources visit www.eriercd.org/childprotection/.