Saint Michael Parish
Welcomes You
Marcy Fessler
Pastoral Associate
Saint Michael Parish
300 North Broad Street
Canfield, OH 44406
Office: 330-533-6839
Email: mfessler@saintmichaelparish.net
Service Projects:
Resources for Parents
Liturgy of the Word with Children
There is a need for at least two more leaders and three to five more helpers for Children’s Liturgy of the Word at the 9:00am Mass on Sundays. We have reached the sad reality that without additional volunteers, Children’s Liturgy of the Word will only be possible twice a month, starting in January 2027. New volunteers will receive training, support and resources. All adult volunteers are required to be in compliance with the Diocesan Safe Environment Policy. Please consider giving your time to help keep this ministry alive for our younger children. Call or email Marcy at the Parish Office: 330-533-6839, or mfessler@saintmichaelparish.net for more information and to become a part of the team for Children’s Liturgy of the Word.
From the Pastor...
As we begin this catechetical year, please know that we try very hard to follow the teachings of the church, especially in the case of sacraments, sponsorship, godparents and religious education. The policies and procedures are in place to enhance the continued faith formation of all involved and not just the child. Our pastoral team and I work very hard to assist people in every situation. But, when the only two answers wanted are “yes” and “now”, and it could be “yes”, but can’t be “now” – there are two responses: [1] walk away angry and tell everyone you know we wouldn’t help you, or [2] listen to what is required and work with us to make it happen.
As we prepare for this catechetical year, we are ready and willing to work with our families, but they must be willing to work with us. With the number of young people in our program, we cannot possibly develop and schedule a program to meet the extra-curricular activities of everyone. A decision will have to be made about what is most important. If a family decides that other activities are more valued in their household and there isn’t room for Mass attendance, YFF and Sacramental Preparation, that’s fine. But that is a decision they have made. We will hold no ill will. Truth be told, an honest assessment of priorities is necessary and unfortunately, the active practice of one’s faith doesn’t always become a major priority. But, we cannot just let everything slide because of their choices.
At times, I know it would be far easier to follow no rules, to let everyone have everything they demand and move forward. But that’s not possible. Thank you to the vast majority of our families who understand what is important, wrestle with the challenging decisions, and make a life of faith a priority in their lives and the lives of their children.
Let us work together, so that united “on wings, we rise.”
Father Lavelle