Catholic Diocese of Buffalo Podcasts: Recent Episodes
Diocese of Buffalo Sound Studio
The official home of audio productions by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo, NY, including WNY Catholic Audio news reports, special one-off podcast interviews, and creative features including Sister Justine's Saint Tales and Dinners With Our Founders.
Sister Roberta Fulton, SSMN, was recently honored by the Knights of Peter Claver as its national 2025 Grand Lady of the Year. Sister Roberta, who grew up in South Carolina but has served in Buffalo for many years, explains the organization and its mission to further social justice by addressing several key pillars.
Hundreds of Catholics of Filipino origin gathered at the National Basilica of Our Lady of Fatima Shrine in Youngstown, NY for the center's annual Filipino Day Pilgrimage on Saturday, July 29. Our Lady of Fatima Shrine, which is one of five selected pilgrimage sites within the Diocese of Buffalo during Jubilee 2025, hosts this ethnic celebration of faith among many others each year.
Faith, fellowship, and fun for five days. WNY Catholic Audio News was there at Fourteen Holy Helpers Church in West Seneca, NY as the Diocese of Buffalo's Parish Family #7 wrapped up a five-day youth summer program.
Students at DeSales Catholic School in Lockport, NY were called to a special assembly to find out their principal and art teacher have collaborated on a soon-to-be-released book featuring their school, and starring some of the nearby forest animals who have been known to sneak into the school.
Daniel Quagliana was ordained the newest permanent deacon in the Diocese of Buffalo at a Mass held Saturday, June 14 in St. Joseph Cathedral in downtown Buffalo, New York.
Dan Quagliana will be ordained as a permanent deacon Saturday, June 14 in St. Joseph Cathedral in Buffalo. He sat recently with WNY Catholic, giving us an opportunity to learn about hearing God's call, and the challenge and blessing of his formation experience.
Diocese of Buffalo Catholic Schools honored the 2025 winners of the Golden Apple Awards, recognizing exemplary service in the classroom and beyond, during a special Mass held Tuesday, May 27, at St. Amelia Church in Tonawanda, NY. Bishop Michael Fisher was the celebrant.
They had planned a pilgrimage to witness the canonization of a saint. Instead, more than 40 Catholics led by a Buffalo-area pastor were in Rome to witness the funeral of Pope Francis. Some of those who made the trip shared their experience with WNY Catholic Audio.
The Diocese of Buffalo's Road to Renewal held its annual conference Friday, May 16, 2025, at St. Stanislaus Church in Buffalo. The theme of this year's conference was "Renewing in a Time of Challenge."
Christopher ("CJ") Wild was ordained a Transitional Deacon in the Diocese of Buffalo Saturday, May 17, 2025, at his childhood parish, Our Lady of Pompeii in Lancaster. WNY Catholic Audio was there for his Ordination Mass, celebrated by Bishop Michael Fisher.
Christopher J. ("C.J.") Wild will be ordained May 17, 2025 as a Transitional Deacon. It's a significant step as he continues his studies and prayers in his journey to become a Catholic priest. WNY Catholic Audio sat with CJ in advance of his Ordination Mass to learn more about him.
Bishop Michael W. Fisher of the Diocese of Buffalo issued a statement in response to to election of Cardinal Robert Prevost (now Pope Leo XIV) as the 267th Bishop of Rome, May 8, 2025. Pope Leo XIV is the first US-born pope in the history of the Catholic Church and succeeds Pope Francis, who passed away April 21, 2025.
The Diocese of Buffalo's Office of Worship offers some prayer guidelines to its parishes and schools in anticipation of the Conclave to Elect a New Holy Father, which begins at the Vatican Wednesday, May 7.
A Mass for the Repose of the Soul of Pope Francis was celebrated Wednesday, April 24, 2025 in St. Joseph Cathedral, two days after the Holy Father's passing at the age of 88. Bishop Michael Fisher, in his homily, recalled the occasions when he got to meet Pope Francis, and spoke of his humanity, his ministry and his legacy.
The Diocese of Buffalo joins Catholics worldwide in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, who died April 21, 2025. This special report includes statements released by the Vatican and the Diocese of Buffalo.(Credit to Samuel Francis Johnson & Pixabay for the music bed used in this piece, which was downloaded royalty-free.)
Bishop Michael W. Fisher of the Diocese of Buffalo delivers his homily during the Easter Sunday Mass, April 20, 2025 at St. Joseph Cathedral.
Blessed Sacrament Church in Buffalo hosted a special Good Friday service April 18, 2025, called the "Funeral of Our Lord." It combined elements of Taize and Tenebrae services to present a story of the Lord's Passion and Crucifixion which utilized all five human senses.
The Holy Triduum, which is at the heart of the Catholic faith, got underway Thursday, April 17, 2025 with celebration of the Mass of the Lord's Supper, Holy Thursday evening. The Holy Triduum continues with Good Friday and concludes at the Easter Vigil.
Fresh sacramental oils and Chrism were blessed by Bishop Michael Fisher, and priests from the Diocese of Buffalo renewed their holy promises during the Chrism Mass, held April 15, 2025 in St. Joseph Cathedral. The Mass is held every year during Holy Week, prior to the Holy Triduum.
Each year, boys and girls who further Catholic faith through their involvement in Scouting America, the Girl Scouts of America, or the American Heritage Girls are recognized by the Diocese of Buffalo for their efforts. On Saturday, April 12, 2025 St. Joseph Cathedral hosted the 51st annual Catholic Committee on Scouting Religious Award Ceremony.
Our Lady of Victory Basilica in Lackawanna, NY hosted a special Mass Sunday, April 6, 2025 honoring adoptive parents, people who were adopted, and even mothers who gave up their children for adoption rather than choose abortion. OLV Basilica is the crown jewel of a multi-faceted ministry founded by the late Father Nelson Baker, whose missions included care for orphans and abandoned babies, and women in crisis pregnancies.
Approximately 200 people, a majority of them teens, prayed, celebrated Mass, and heard inspiring words from Paul J. Kim at the Diocese of Buffalo's annual youth rally, "No Matter What... A Day for Catholic Teens," Sunday, March 30, 2025 at Hilbert College in Hamburg, NY.
Students from 17 Catholic schools in the Diocese of Buffalo took part in the X-STREAM Games, a competition in which students apply elements of STREAM education (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Art, Mathematics) to their projects and events. The event was held Saturday, March 29, 2025 at St. Joseph Collegiate Institute in Kenmore, NY.
Students from ten Catholic elementary schools within the Diocese of Buffalo converged on Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Parish in Orchard Park, NY Friday, March 28, 2025 for the annual 8th Grade Retreat. They prayed, attended Mass, shared their thoughts in group discussions, and enjoyed pizza as they prepare for the significant milestone of graduation.
Catholic Charities of Buffalo, which serves eight counties in Western New York, held its annual HOPE Day on Wednesday, March 19, 2025. It's a day when volunteers call past donors for support, and when corporate dollars are offered up to match donors' pledges.
The Diocese of Buffalo named its new Superintendent of Catholic Schools Tuesday, March 11, 2025. Joleen Dimitroff, currently principal at Cardinal O'Hara High School, will bring more than 35 years of experience, expertise, leadership, and her own Catholic education into her new role, which begins in June.
Buffalo Bishop Michael Fisher celebrated Ash Wednesday Mass during the noon hour March 5, 2025 in St. Joseph Cathedral. This is the homily he delivered. (Audio comes from the St. Joseph Cathedral live stream)
More than 50 boys and girls from throughout the Diocese of Buffalo were honored Saturday, March 1 as the 2025 recipients of the Bishop's Altar Server Award. They were presented with their medals during a Mass celebrated in St. Joseph Cathedral. Bishop Michael Fisher was the principal celebrant, joined by approximately 20 other priests.
Father Bill Quinlivan, pastor of the churches making up the Catholic Family of South Buffalo, speaks on Ash Wednesday and its signifcance, its popularity, and why Lent should be just as much about "letting in" as about "giving up."
The daily noon-hour Mass celebrated in St. Joseph Cathedral in Buffalo was offered up for Pope Francis, who remained hospitalized in Gemelli Hospital in Rome Tuesday afternoon, February 25, 2025. This is the homily delivered by Bishop Michael Fisher, reflecting on the pope's health and also the Gospel passage (Mark 9:30-37) in which the apostles debate who among them is the greatest. Jesus Christ tells his disciples that he who would be the greatest would be the least, the servant. Bishop Fisher points out that the Holy Father is the Servant of the Servants.
The Diocese of Buffalo joins the world in praying for the health of Pope Francis. On Tuesday, February 25, 2025, the weekday noon-hour Mass was offered for the Holy Father, celebrated by Bishop Michael Fisher.
On what was World Marriage Sunday, Bishop Michael Fisher celebrated Mass February 9, 2025, during which area couples marking wedding anniversaries ranging from 25 to 70 years renewed their vows.
Bishop Michael Fisher traveled nearly 130 miles Thursday, January 30, 2025 to visit two schools located in the more southern regions of the Diocese of Buffalo, as his Catholic Schools Week tour continued.
Bishop Michael Fisher stopped in an elementary school and then a girls' high school in South Buffalo to close out his week of visits to schools within the Diocese of Buffalo for Catholic Schools Week 2025.
On his second of four days of planned visits to celebrate Catholic Schools Week, Bishop Michael Fisher said hello to students at schools in Buffalo, Niagara Falls and Grand Island. WNY Catholic Audio followed along.
The students of Holy Family School are returning from a field trip, but their bus is held up by protests outside an abortion clinic. Sister Justine delicately discusses the issue with the students, and shares the story of St. Gianna Beretta Molla, a woman who willingly sacrificed her own life to save her baby.(NOTE: We encourage parents to listen to this episode with their children and have their own discussion about this topic. Due to the sensitive nature of this episode, listener discretion is advised.)
Bishop Michael Fisher and an entourage from the Diocese of Buffalo's Education Department visited three schools within the diocese Monday, January 27, 2025 to kick off Catholic Schools Week.
The Diocese of Buffalo celebrated a special Pro-Life Mass Thursday, January 23, 2025 in St. Christopher Church in Tonawanda, NY, coinciding with the Mass and Prayer Service taking place in Washington, DC on the eve of the National March for Life. At the local Mass, a couple who experienced the pain of losing three children spoke of their decision not to abort one of them, even while knowing her severe disabilities would give her a very short life.
The start of a new day at Holy Family School is interrupted by a fire alarm. While the local fire department arrives to investigate the smell of smoke, Sister Justine helps the kids pass the time with the story of St. Florian, the patron saint of firefighters.
Father Kareem Smith of the Bronx delivered the homily to the congregation of St. Martin de Porres Church in Buffalo at the parish's annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Mass, Sunday, January 19, 2025. His homily addressed King's legacy while also touching on current political undertones and the need to remain vigilant in the quest for social justice, equality, and equity. We fully encourage you to listen to this homily in its entirety.
Trailing 1-0 in their soccer game against rivals Crosstown Academy, the students of Holy Family School take exception to comments by an opponent who suggests her Catholic school counterparts are "soft." Sister Justine gives the halftime pep talk by sharing the story of St. Sebastian, whose persecution and martyrdom shows how courageous and tough many Christians are in order to share the Good News of Jesus Christ.
While the students of Holy Family School travel to Auriesville, NY to visit the National Shrine of the North American Martyrs, Sister Justine helps pass time on the bus ride by sharing the story of St. Kateri Tekakwitha, the first Native American recognized as a saint by the Catholic Church.(Notes: The pronunciation of "Iroquois" can be either "eer-oh-koy" or "eer-oh-kwah." The latter is a French pronunciation and, as it was French settlers who were interacting with St. Kateri's village during her time, the producers decided to use the French pronunciation for this episode.)
Some of the best-known saints in the Catholic Church didn't start their lives as Catholics. The students at Holy Family School, including a non-Catholic classmate, learn this when Sister Justine shares the story of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton.
Catholic Charities of Buffalo has set an $8.5 million goal for its 2025 Appeal, which was launched at their headquarters Wednesday, January 8, 2025. Among the speakers was Bishop Michael Fisher, who noted the theme of hope is similar to that of Jubilee 2025. (Apologies for the technical issues with the sound bites within this story.)
Led by Bishop Michael Fisher, the Diocese of Buffalo celebrated a special Mass on the evening of Sunday, December 29, 2024 to mark the start of both the Catholic Church's Year of Jubilee and the diocese's own Year of Healing.
The students of Holy Family School are invited to participate in a family lineage project. One of the classmates, who is adopted, worries she won't be able to contribute. Sister Justine shares the story of St. Martin de Porres, a saint of mixed races who endured rejection and prejudice while growing up, but who loved and was loved by his family of Catholic faith.
As the students of Holy Family School prepare to produce their first-ever video podcast, they learn about St. Clare of Assisi, and how a holy woman who didn't live in the era of television can be its patron saint.
While volunteering at their local St. Vincent de Paul Center, the students of Holy Family School encounter a rude drive-by stranger. Sister Justine tells them the story of St. Vincent de Paul, who while growing up could be a difficult person in his own right, until he learned and better appreciated the power of God's compassion.
When one of the students admits not going to Confession since his First Reconciliation, he worries about what trouble he might be in. Sister Justine shares the story of St. Maria Faustina Kowalska to remind the students that Jesus wants to heal those who seek His Divine Mercy. Created and produced by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo.
The internet is a powerful system. It's even better when it's used for good. The students of Holy Family School learn this as Sister Justine tells the tale of Blessed Carlo Acutis, who used his computer skills to celebrate Eucharistic miracles and apparitions by Our Blessed Mother, Mary.Created and produced by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo.
Yes, we know, it's been a while since we released new content on the Sound Hub. But we've not been idled. Instead, we've been very busy preparing new audio productions which are coming out here on the Diocese of Buffalo's Soundcloud channel this month! Michael Mroziak offers a preview of new shows and news coverage coming up in December.
Local Catholics who came to Western New York from numerous African nations joined Sunday, November 17 for the annual African Thanksgiving Mass and Bazaar, sponsored by the Diocese of Buffalo's Office of Cultural Diversity.
Prayers at the latest Healing Mass celebrated at the Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima in Lewiston, New York, included those for the healing for all Catholics feeling angst amid the numerous parish mergers and closings happening as part of the Diocese of Buffalo's Road to Renewal.
For the second consecutive day, St. Joseph Cathedral in Buffalo was the site for a special Catholic school Mass, celebrated every year by the Diocese of Buffalo. This time, it was students from 12th Grade classes at area Catholic high schools who were welcomed.
The Diocese of Buffalo celebrated its annual 8th Grade Mass in St. Joseph Cathedral, Tuesday, October 22, 2024. Students learned about the history of the cathedral, while Bishop Michael Fisher spoke about the special love Jesus asks us to have, "Agape."
Finding the right point between enforcing the rule of law and showing one mercy. It's a generations-old dilemma that was discussed during the Diocese of Buffalo's annual Red Mass, held October 10, 2024 to pray over those working in the legal field.
St. Gregory the Great Church in Williamsville is playing host Thursday, October 3 and Friday, October 4 to first-class relics of St. Francis of Assisi, St. Clare of Assisi, St. Anthony of Padua, and St. Maximilian Maria Kolbe. WNY Catholic Audio was welcomed to the church on the morning of Oct. 3, as students from St. Gregory the Great School were given the first opportunity to see and venerate the relics.
The Catholic Family of South Buffalo, one of the diocese's families of parishes within the Buffalo Vicariate, hosted a Blue Mass at St. Thomas Aquinas Church to pray over members of Buffalo Police and the Erie County Sheriff's Department, Sunday, September 29, 2024.
Bishop Michael Fisher visited another Catholic school within the Diocese of Buffalo to celebrate a new academic year. This time, on Thursday, September 12, he visited Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary School in Clarence, New York.
The Diocese of Buffalo's Office of Cultural Diversity held a special Multicultural Mass Sunday, September 8 at the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Buffalo.
The Diocese of Buffalo announced Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2024 the final decisions on the merging and reshaping of parishes and parish families throughout the Diocese of Buffalo. This is the news conference, presented in its entirety. Following an opening prayer and remarks by Bishop Michael Fisher, the diocesan Vicar for Renewal Father Bryan Zielenieski explains the process and announces the decisions on parishes to remain open, merge, or close.
Approximately 20 Respect Life coordinators from throughout the Diocese of Buffalo, including five new ones, were commissioned at an annual Mass held inside St. Joseph Cathedral Saturday, September 7, 2024. These coordinators will go back to their parishes and parish families to manage ministries that seek to preserve the dignity of human life in all its stages.
Bishop Michael Fisher of the Diocese of Buffalo appeared at more local Catholic schools Thursday, September 5, to help kick off a new academic year. WNY Catholic Audio was at Queen of Heaven School in West Seneca, NY, as the bishop blessed the students' backpacks.
Students at DeSales Catholic School in Lockport, NY welcomed a special guest, Buffalo Bishop MIchael Fisher, on their first day of the new school year. The bishop blessed the school's recently completed new playground, and he also met face-to-face with a student bravely battling cancer.
While the children were getting in their last days of summer vacation, principals of Catholic Schools within the Diocese of Buffalo were already preparing for the new year. So, too, were officials within the diocesan education department.
The Diocese of Buffalo held its fourth Renewal Mass, Sunday, August 25, at St. Stanislaus Church in Buffalo. Each year since the first Renewal Mass in 2021, praying the Rosary precedes the Mass, after which a knot is untied from a rope symbolizing the struggles of the modern church: abuse, indifference, mistrust, lack of faith, and isolation.
As parishes throughout the Diocese of Buffalo prepare to host the 11-week evangelical program Alpha beginning September 17, many local Catholics who have already experienced the program say we can all learn something from it. They also dismiss critics' claims that Alpha, created in England, is not suitable for Catholics.
The Diocese of Buffalo will host a training session Saturday, August 10 (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.) for individuals interested in leading Alpha courses at their local parishes this fall. Alpha is a program originating from England which invites participants to eat, watch video, and then engage in candid discussions about their faith, and the many questions they may have about it.
The 10th National Eucharistic Congress came to a conclusion Sunday, July 21. But as pilgrims including a delegation from the Diocese of Buffalo departed from Indianapolis, they were sent with marching orders to share the message of the Eucharist back home. WNY Catholic Audio spoke to some of the delegates as they traveled home Sunday.
The 10th National Eucharistic Congress has come to an end, and the 31 pilgrims aboard the Diocese of Buffalo's chartered bus are heading home, exhilarated but perhaps exhausted. WNY Catholic Audio's Michael Mroziak offers a quick message here, as we plan to offer post-Congress coverage beginning Tuesday, July 23.
Celebrating the Eucharist with an Eastern Rite Qurbana, and a huge Eucharistic Procession through the streets of Indianapolis. Here's how WNY Catholic Audio spent its Saturday at the National Eucharistic Congress.
Friday, July 19 brought another day of adoration, prayer, and spiritual re-energizing at the National Eucharistic Congress. The approximately 30 pilgrims who traveled with the Diocese of Buffalo shared a dinner, and some shared their thoughts with WNY Catholic Audio about how this experience is going so far.
Thursday, July 18 was Day Two of the National Eucharistic Congress but the first full day of worship, presentations, and faith-based activities. WNY Catholic Audio is in Indianapolis for the Congress and has this report.
We're on the way to Indianapolis! WNY Catholic Audio's Michael Mroziak provides a brief update from the bus carrying the Diocese of Buffalo's delegation of pilgrims.
An estimated 50 guests attending a veneration of St. Gianna Molla's relics were given the opportunity to actually touch them, with no protective glass or other surface in the way. Dr. Gianna Emanuela Molla was among those in attendance, as she continued a visit to Western New York celebrating the legacy of her mother, the patron saint of physicians, mothers, and unborn children.
Dr. Gianna Emanuela Molla, daughter of St. Gianna Beretta Molla (patron saint of physicians, mothers, and unborn children) was a special guest Thursday, July 11, 2024 as the eighth and newest St. Gianna Molla Pregnancy Outreach Center was opened within the Diocese of Buffalo, in Holley, New York.
Teens affiliated with parishes in the Diocese of Buffalo's Parish Family #7 have just completed a five-day faith formation program which allowed them to learn about different perspectives, some local Catholic faith history, and about service. WNY Catholic Audio was there as the participants learned, for example, about poverty which exists in their own community and the need to take it on.
Our producer/reporter will be off the final week of June, but preparations are already being made for a July that will include coverage of two special events: a visit by the daughter of St. Gianna Molla to Western New York, and the National Eucharistic Congress being held in Indianapolis.
Michael Hahn, Michael Katilus, and Anthony Vilardo were ordained as permanent deacons during a Mass held Saturday, June 8 in St. Joseph Cathedral. Bishop Michael Fisher celebrated the Mass, joined by priests, deacons, and attended by family and friends of the newest deacons.
The Catholic Diocese of Buffalo welcomes three new permanent deacons into the community in 2024. Here we feature one of those new deacons, Anthony Vilardo.We pray for a fruitful ministry and for more people to become inspired to hear and answer God's call to serve.
The Catholic Diocese of Buffalo welcomes three new permanent deacons into the community in 2024. Here we feature one of those new deacons, Michael Katilus.We pray for a fruitful ministry and for more people to become inspired to hear and answer God's call to serve.
The Catholic Diocese of Buffalo welcomes three new permanent deacons into the community in 2024. Here we feature one of those new deacons, Michael Hahn.We pray for a fruitful ministry and for more people to become inspired to hear and answer God's call to serve.
Venerable Father Nelson Baker, whose legacy includes Our Lady of Victory Basilica and several charitable institutions, is featured in a new comic book that will be distributed free to local Catholic schools. Dozens of students were the first to receive copies during a visit to the basilica Tuesday, June 4.
Juan Sebastian Aristizibal began the day a transitional deacon, but then became Father Sebastian. Bishop Michael led the Mass of Ordination, as Aristizibal became the Diocese of Buffalo's newest priest Saturday, June 1, 2024.
The Catholic Diocese of Buffalo, as part of its ongoing Road to Renewal, will undergo a consultative evaluation of its 160 parishes this summer and will soon identify parishes and worship sites for mergers with other parishes within the diocese’s 36 Families of Parishes. Following a meeting with priests Tuesday, May 28, leaders including Bishop Michael Fisher and Rev. Bryan Zielenieski, Vicar for Renewal and Development, hosted a news conference to announce this plan. This is the news conference in its entirety.
BREAKING NEWS - Pope Francis, in a decree issued May 23, 2024, has confirmed a miracle attributed to Blessed Carlo Acutis, and had announced that as a result the late Italian teenager will be canonized as the first millennial-generation saint in the Roman Catholic Church.
Our Lady of Victory National Shrine and Basilica, as well as OLV's adjacent buildings serving the legacy of Father Nelson Baker, will be added to the New York State and National Registers of Historic Places, it was announced Thursday, May 16, 2024.
A former Catholic parish turned neighborhood support center is launching a new East Side Community Partnership in cooperation with the Diocese of Buffalo's Parish Family 21, which includes several inner city churches. Bishop Michael Fisher celebrated a special Mass to begin this new partnership, which aims to expand senior citizen services and activities.
Delegates from the Diocese of Buffalo who attended last summer's National Black Catholic Congress XIII near Washington, DC hosted a follow-up meeting Friday, May 10 at St. Martin de Porres Church in Buffalo to begin shaping a local action plan based on ideas raised at last year's event.
Catholic Academy of West Buffalo features one of the most ethnically diverse - if not the most diverse - student populations among Catholic schools in the Diocese of Buffalo. On Friday, May 10, the school held its third annual Culture Day to let students celebrate their own roots, while learning about those of their schoolmates.
The Diocese of Buffalo sponsored its youth rally, "Making Connections," Sunday, April 28 at Villa Maria College. Featuring a Mass, breakout activities, music, and praise led by keynote speaker ValLimar Jansen, it was the first official youth rally held by the diocese since COVID.
The Diocese of Buffalo hosted its 54th annual Bishop's Altar Server Awards Mass in St. Joseph Cathedral Saturday, April 27, 2004. Fr. David Baker, who delivered the homily, likened the young men and women to superheroes.
Diane Ferraro was the keynote speaker for the 2024 St. Gianna Molla Banquet hosted by the Diocese of Buffalo's Office of Respect Life, held April 25, 2024 in Amherst. Prior to the banquet, Ferraro was welcomed into the Catholic Center in Buffalo for a one-on-one interview with WNY Catholic Audio's Michael Mroziak.
The Diocese of Buffalo's Office of Respect Life held its annual Pro-Vita Awards Mass and St. Gianna Molla Banquet, during which ten people were honored for their efforts to further the pro-life cause, "from womb to tomb."
Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin made a surprise visit to Immaculate Conception School in East Aurora, NY during the afternoon of April 23, 2024. He discussed values, played trivia games with the kids, and brightened up the room not just for the kids, but also the teachers and staff.
Tony Buttino, co-creator and longtime executive producer of the iconic PBS television series Reading Rainbow, has co-authored a new book about the show, "Creating Reading Rainbow: The Untold Story of a Beloved Children's Television Series."During his career and continuing today in his daily life, Buttino has leaned heavily on his strong Catholic faith. He welcomed WNY Catholic Audio into his home to discuss his faith, and his work on Reading Rainbow.
The Diocese of Buffalo's Education Department hosted its second annual 8th Grade Retreat April 19, 2024 at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart parish in Orchard Park, NY. Bishop Michael Fisher paid a visit and celebrated Mass as part of the day, which is designed to help pending graduates of local Catholic schools prepare spiritually for the transition into high school.
St. Gregory the Great Church in Williamsville administered first-time sacraments to 26 people as part of its Easter Vigil Mass, held Saturday, March 30, 2024.
Each year many Catholics celebrating Holy Thursday Mass then embark on the traditional Seven Churches Visitation, symbolizing the seven stops Jesus Christ made between His Last Supper and the Crucifixion. Some visitors choose their churches based on ethnic connections or perhaps other local history. The excursion from St. Leo the Great Church in Amherst, meanwhile, included every church within its parish family - plus one nearby - on its course.
The Chrism Mass, during which priests renew their promises, and chrism and sacramental oils are consecrated, is held every Tuesday of Holy Week. WNY Catholic Audio was inside a packed St. Joseph Cathedral for this year's Chrism mass.
The Diocesan Choir Festival Concert will be held Sunday, April 21, 2024 beginning at 5 p.m. in St. Louis Church in Buffalo. WNY Catholic Audio met with two participants to learn more about the concert, and the movement to preserve and celebrate classic Christian choral song.
The Diocese of Buffalo's Catholic Committee on Scouting honored more than two dozen local Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts with various Catholic-oriented awards, celebrating their commitment to using Scouting to nurture their faith and share it with others.
During his Palm Sunday homily Sunday, March 24, 2024, Bishop Michael Fisher discussed the suffering of Jesus Christ and also the suffering of those victimized by past abuse by clergy, lay personnel, and volunteers affiliated with the Diocese of Buffalo. The intention of the Mass was for all victims and survivors of abuse.
Throughout Women’s History Month, we have recognized and celebrated Women Religious whose works and influence have touched countless lives in Western New York. But we now also thank and recognize the countless lay women of the Diocese of Buffalo who spread the Good News of Jesus Christ and serve as examples of discipleship.
Throughout Women’s History Month, we have recognized and celebrated many individual Women Religious whose works and influence have touched countless lives in Western New York. In this installment, we recognize the many more Sisters who have left a positive impact on people’s lives, yet whose names are not necessarily remembered.
Sister Mary Angela Betke combined her Christ-like compassion with her education in psychology and psychiatry to serve children living with emotional and learning disabilities, founding and operating the Cantalician Center for Learning.
An official ceremony was held Tuesday, March 19, 2024 to formally open the new Perry-St. Brigid Food Pantry, a larger space which replaces the longtime nearby Fulton-St. Brigid Food Pantry. It is one of the numerous services offered by Catholic Charities in Buffalo, which is currently in the midst of its 2024 Appeal.
Mother Mary Anne Burke possessed skills in education and financial management which served her well. Her contributions to the Diocese of Buffalo include half a century of service as principal of St. Mary’s School for the Deaf. She also led the Sisters of St. Joseph in the acquisition of land where several key institutions would be built.
They are a sisters act, in more ways than one. Sisters Joanne and Mary Francis Gangloff are siblings and both Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities. Both Sisters have dedicated their long lives in service to Jesus Christ in diverse ways, with their words, and by their deeds.
Before coming to Buffalo from Romania, Sister Mary Judith Fenyvesi experienced the Holocaust and communist oppression firsthand. She turned those experiences into ministry recognizing and acting against social injustice, while urging her students to do the same.
Sister Ellen McCarthy was educated at St. John the Baptist School in Alden, and would later go on to be its principal, overseeing several capital projects, introducing Pre-K and Spanish language programs, and has also served as a pastoral associate and council member for the parish.
Born in Elmira, New York in 1873, Mother M. Helena McLaughlin would come to Buffalo and become a major builder in the Diocese of Buffalo, leading projects such as a new motherhouse for the Sisters of Mercy, what would become Mercy Hospital, and St. Jerome Hospital in Batavia.
As the number of priests has decreased, their roles have become even more important in many parishes’ day-to-day operations. Sister Lori High is one such woman serving in a parish leadership role, and has held many roles in her more than 40 years of ministry and service to Christ, in Western New York and elsewhere.
While growing up in South Carolina, Sister Roberta Fulton witnessed the love of the Sisters of St. Mary and their active involvement in social justice, including the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. Inspired by this, she decided to pursue a life following Christ, doing so as a social justice advocate.
For many Western New York Catholics, entering the Catholic faith begins with a knock on the door. And it might just be Sister Louise Alff who was doing the knocking.
To hear the Word of God with our ears is a gift that most of us may take for granted. Sister Conchetta LoPresti, meanwhile, uses her hands to help spread the Good News to those who are physically unable to hear it.
Approximately 75 people were honored March 9, 2024 at a special Mass in downtown Buffalo for their service to parishes and the Diocese of Buffalo. They are this year's recipients of the diocese's Lay Award of St. Joseph.
Sister Gail Glenn has lived her entire life in Buffalo, and has dedicated her life to nurturing children’s minds and souls through her work in Catholic education, fostering an environment where all students may feel safe and appreciated, and where teachers are encouraged and supported to bring out the best in each student.
Sister Grace Wechter of the Grey Nuns of the Sacred Heart was a driving force in the growth of D’Youville College, now known as D’Youville University, an institution which today continues to provide education in health sciences, liberal arts and business. She was a pioneer in developing education in sociology and social work.
Sister Mary Joanne Suranni brings a never-ending joyful energy to the people she interacts with in Niagara Falls, New York, whether it’s while working in faith formation, or education, or providing personal support.
Sister M. Hubert Pollard kept four simple but potent words in her heart – “The Love of God.” It is by those words she served more than 60 years with the Sisters of St. Joseph, more than 40 them in roles at St. Mary’s School for the Deaf.
Sister Ursula Mattingly spent only seven of her 40-plus years of service to God in the Diocese of Buffalo, but in the mid-1800s she led her fellow Sisters in building what remains Buffalo’s oldest-existing large hospital, one that overcame public prejudice and outperformed the local public hospital during a major cholera outbreak.
Sister Mary McCarrick served the Diocese of Buffalo by holding important leadership positions, while also showing her true Christlike guidance when working directly with the poor. She did both through her longtime leadership role at Catholic Charities.
Sister Mary Timothy Howard has used the power of education to help many young people escape the grip of poverty and feel empowered to stand up against racism and injustice, sharing her love of teaching and learning with generations of students of all races, faiths, and backgrounds.
In 1863, when Bishop John Timon sought nuns to form an establishment in Lockport, New York, it was the Sisters of St. Mary of Namur, led by Mother Emily Kemen, who answered the call. Under Kemen's leadership, they established schools and spread Catholic faith.
After being told by Saint Mother Teresa to find and serve the “Calcutta” in her own town, Sister Mary Johnice Rzadkiewicz established the Response to Love Center in Buffalo’s East Side, a center which continues today to provide material and spiritual needs for many in the local community.
Mother Colette Hilbert lived by four words: “In All Things, Charity.” Under her leadership, the Sisters taught schoolchildren also worked to help the poor. The Sisters of her order would later set the foundation for what is now Hilbert College.
Sister Karen Klimczak served her community by advocating for non-violence, while providing compassion for families of murder victims, and even offering a chance for many convicts to turn their lives around. She did so, ultimately, at the cost of her own life but, remarkably, forgave her killer - 15 years before meeting him.
The Diocese of Buffalo's Road to Renewal team will host Renewal Conference 2024 at Hilbert College on Friday, March 22, 2024 from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Here's a preview of the conference, with comments by Fr. Bryan Zielnieski (Vicar for Renewal & Development) on what will be discussed.
Dozens of men, women and children currently on a journey toward becoming Catholics took an important step Sunday, February 18 when they were introduced to Bishop Michael Fisher at the Rite of Election ceremony in St. Joseph Cathedral.
As Ash Wednesday began, marking the start of Lent, WNY Catholic Audio visited two churches within the Diocese of Buffalo. At one, Bishop Michael Fisher presided over a school Mass. Elsewhere, one parish was holding extended hours to make ashes, prayers, and confessions available for visitors.
Each year, the Diocese of Buffalo celebrates couples marking milestone wedding anniversaries with a special Mass at St. Joseph Cathedral in Buffalo. Bishop Michael Fisher celebrated the latest Sunday, February 11, 2024, coinciding with World Marriage Day.
The Foundation of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo, the independent fundraising entity which supports Catholic ministries within the diocese, hosted its annual Catholic Education Luncheon in Buffalo on Tuesday, February 6, 2024. In addition to award presentations, students were among those who spoke of the impact a Catholic education has made on their lives.
Students at St. Christopher School in Tonawanda, NY participated in a Living Rosary Thursday, February 1, 2024 as part of the school's Catholic Schools Week events.
As Catholic Schools Week was getting underway in the Diocese of Buffalo, Bishop Michael Fisher enjoyed lunch with a small group of students and faculty at St. John the Baptist School in Alden, NY.
The Diocese of Buffalo got Catholic Schools Week 2024 underway Sunday, January 28 with a Mass at St. Benedict Church in Eggertsville. Bishop Michael Fisher was the lead celebrant and spoke during his homily of how education in all subjects honors God.
The Diocese of Buffalo's Road to Renewal program hosted a conference at one of the parishes within the City of Buffalo, "Doing More With Less - The Reality of Urban Ministry," welcoming Monsignor Raymond East from St. Teresa of Avila Church in Washington, D.C. to present his thoughts and insights to local clergy and parish lay representatives.
Catholic Charities of Buffalo has announced a $9.5 million goal for its annual fundraising Appeal, the 100th such campaign in its history.
Priests, deacons, and lay volunteers dressed up in teams of "Magi" and visited more than 70 homes throughout the City of Buffalo on January 6, providing blessings of houses to mark the Feast of the Epiphany, which commemorates the visitation of the Christ Child by the Three Wise Men. The traveling blessings were arranged by Sts. Columba-Brigid Parish in Buffalo.
Ray Geska, a Buffalo-area Catholic, began attending weekday Masses at different churches beyond his hone parish in late summer 2023. He's now on a quest to attend a Mass at every church within the Diocese of Buffalo. And as of New Year's Day 2024, he's more than halfway through the list.
Ever feel overwhelmed by the aggressive commercialization of Christmas? In this episode, one mother whose family does observe Christian traditions cannot help but struggle to find a little spirit amidst the modern marketing which takes focus off the reason for the Season. In comes Sister Justine to remind us of St. Nicholas, the inspiration for that other famous generous guy in the red suit.
A student at Holy Family School has the opportunity to make his song a hit. But to do it, he's told he'll have to reject the friends helping him make the music. Sister Justine steps in, sharing the story of St. Cecelia, the patron saint of musicians, who was martyred after refusing to give up her virtues and love of Christ.
A stray and hurting dog has wandered toward the students of Holy Family School. As they temporarily care for their new furry friend, Sister Justine shares the story of St. Roch, the patron saint of dogs.
A copy of the first hand-written and hand-illustrated Holy Bible in 500 years will be on display at Our Lady of Victory Basilica in Lackawanna, NY during the Advent and Christmas seasons. WNY Catholic was invited to a preview event to see it up close.
The students are about to embark on a field trip to a Holocaust Museum. Before they enter, Sister Justine shares the story of St. Maximilian Kolbe, a Catholic priest and prisoner at Auschwitz who volunteered to take the place of a fellow prisoner condemned to death.
The month of November marks Black Catholic History Month in the United States. While Black and African-American Catholics make up just a very small percentage of the overall Catholic population in the U.S. (est. 3 million, representing 4% of US Catholics), that population is a vibrant, inspired community. In this third episode of the Diocese of Buffalo's celebration of Black Catholic History Month, we bring you the second of two homilies delivered October 21, 2023 by Fr. Anthony Bozeman, who spoke at Revival 2023 at St. Martin de Porres Church in Buffalo.
St. Philip the Apostle Church in Cheektowaga, New York, held an Inclusive Thanksgiving Mass, one that was designed to lessen many of the stimuli which might cause distress in people with disabilities at regular Masses.
When a student becomes discouraged after her model rocket fails to fly, Sister Justine shares the story of St. Joseph of Cupertino, a saint who was reputed for ecstatic visions and the ability to levitate in prayer, but who as a child just couldn't seem to do anything right.
The month of November marks Black Catholic History Month in the United States. While Black and African-American Catholics make up just a very small percentage of the overall Catholic population in the U.S. (est. 3 million, representing 4% of US Catholics), that population is a vibrant, inspired community. In this episode of the Diocese of Buffalo's celebration of Black Catholic History Month, we bring you some of the recent homily by Fr. Anthony Bozeman, who spoke at Revival 2023 at St. Martin de Porres Church in Buffalo. This segment is from the first of two homilies he delivered October 21, 2023. (Portions of the homily were edited for time or because information stated - such as "upcoming events" - is now outdated.)For more information on events happening in Western New York during National Black Catholic History Month, visit WNYCatholic.org.
When classmates make fun of a student because of her mother's job, Sister Justine sets things straight by telling them the tale of St. Zita, a humble yet holy housemaid.
The month of November marks Black Catholic History Month in the United States. To mark the month in Buffalo, Western New York Catholic Audio organized a roundtable discussion to be released as a podcast. Panelists included host Mary Craig, Marilyn Ward, Deacon Ronald Walker, and Sister Roberta Fulton, the latter of whom directs the Diocese of Buffalo’s Office of Cultural Diversity. They discussed their experiences growing up as Black Catholics, the lack of African-American saints (though there are some candidates), and the energy brought back from the National Black Catholic Congress held this past July in Maryland. During the program, other events also celebrating Black Catholic History Month were mentioned. You may find a list of those activities at WNYCatholic.org.
Buffalo is home to a diverse population which includes recent immigrants from around the world, including many African nations. On Sunday, November 5, 2023, the Diocese of Buffalo's Office of Cultural Diversity hosted an African Thanksgiving Mass, where the diversity of local Catholics was celebrated.
When a student drops his younger sister's favorite toy out of the school bus window, Sister Justine encourages hope that it will be found by sharing the story of St. Anthony of Padua, the patron saint of lost things.
The Diocese of Buffalo honored the 100th anniversary of the formation of Catholic Charities in Buffalo during its Sunday Mass, October 29, 2023.
When students doubt their shy classmate's readiness to run for Student Council, Sister Justine reminds them of a saint who was humble and who willingly suffered, but was also strong enough to convince a pope to relocate!
Cardinal O'Hara High School in Tonawanda, NY, welcomed Bishop Michael Fisher of the Diocese of Buffalo to show him some of their recently completed projects and additional renovations in progress.
It was one year ago (Oct. 25, 2022) that the Diocese of Buffalo and New York State Attorney General announced a settlement in regards to the diocesan handling of past abuse claims. As part of the settlement, the diocese introduced new compliance leadership. In this podcast, we speak with our further updated compliance leaders to discuss how they address claims.
Brother Guy Consolmagno, director of the Vatican Observatory, appeared at Canisius University October 24, 2023 for a special presentation. Prior to that event, WNY Catholic had the privilege and honor of sitting with Br. Consolmagno in our own studio to discuss faith, science, and the many misconceptions about the Catholic Church's relationship with astronomy.
While the children await the start of a meteor shower, Sister Justine is there to share the story of St. Dominic, the patron saint of astronomy.
The Catholic Diocese of Buffalo celebrated its vast and diverse Hispanic heritage with a Mass that came on the final day of National Hispanic Heritage Month, October 15, 2023.
When a new student asks the question "What is God?" the class and teacher are surprised. But Sister Justine helps out by telling the story of St. Thomas Aquinas, one of the Catholic Church's best-known students and thinkers, who asked the very same question.
The Diocese of Buffalo held its annual Red Mass Thursday, October 5, 2023 in partnership with the St. Thomas More Guild. The annual Mass seeks the blessings of the Holy Spirit for judges and attorneys to conduct their duties with true justice, mercy, and integrity.
Observing a respect for life, celebrations of cultural diversity and charitable service, a visiting exhibit remembering a late teenager's dedication to the Eucharist, and a special gathering to be held elsewhere in New York State. That's just some of what's covered in WNY Catholic Audio's preview of October events of interest to people within the Diocese of Buffalo.
The Foundation of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo, a separate entity within the diocese, gathers support for those who are candidates for priesthood. WNY Catholic Audio hosted a discussion to learn more about how the Foundation helps seminarians, and learn more about the state of vocations within the Diocese of Buffalo.
Bishop Michael Fisher of the Diocese of Buffalo celebrated the annual 8th and 12th Grade Masses in St. Joseph Cathedral in back-to-back days, continuing a tradition welcoming Catholic school students to downtown Buffalo.
Southern Tier Catholic School, located in Olean, NY, is beginning its school year in a new home, classrooms within the former St. John's School. Bishop Michael Fisher presided over the school's "grand re-opening" Mass.
Buffalo Bishop Michael Fisher made another appearance at a local Catholic school to mark the new academic year. His latest visit was to St. John the Baptist in Kenmore, where he presided over a school Mass.
On Sunday, September 10, Bishop Michael Fisher presided over the annual Blue Mass, which recognizes and prays for the safety of law enforcers, firefighters and other emergency responders.
Bishop Michael Fisher of the Diocese of Buffalo continued a tour of selected Catholic schools to mark the start of a new academic year. On Friday, September 8, he visited Catholic Academy of West Buffalo, considered the most culturally diverse student population among area Catholic schools.
In the second of two scheduled school visits Thursday, September 7, Bishop Michael Fisher presided over Mass before students at Notre Dame High School in Batavia, NY. It was the first day of classes, and also the first school day for its new principal, who explained her decision and her commitment to continuing the school's tradition of academic excellence.
The new Catholic chaplain for the National Football League's Buffalo Bills, Father Michael LaMarca, recently sat with retired chaplain Monsignor Francis Weldgen to discuss their important role as a spiritual leader for pro football players, serving both the hometown heroes and their visiting rivals. Their conversation was recorded in August 2023 at St. Christopher Church in the Town of Tonawanda, NY.
Bishop Michael Fisher of the Diocese of Buffalo continued a traditional visit to area schools at the start of the new academic year. WNY Catholic Audio was there as he visited St. Joseph University School in Buffalo.
A new school year is upon us, and Bishop Michael Fisher of the Diocese of Buffalo marked it by visiting one of the Catholic schools within the diocese. His appearance at St. John Vianney School in Orchard Park, NY was the first of several school visits planned over the next two weeks.
The Diocese of Buffalo hosted its third annual Renewal Mass, Sunday, August 27, 2023 at Our Lady of Victory National Shrine and Basilica in Lackawanna, NY. As participants untied a second symbolic knot from their ropes, the Vicar for Renewal for the diocese tied the lyrics of a song featured in a current hit movie to the theme of the diocesan Road to Renewal.
The Diocese of Buffalo's Office of Cultural Diversity hosted its Hispanic/Latino Family Day at Our Lady of Fatima Shrine in Lewiston, New York on Saturday, August 26, 2023.
An estimated 65 local young Catholic adults gathered in Buffalo on August 23, 2023 for Theology on Tap, a program that provides a relaxed setting where guests can learn about, discuss, and share their Catholic faith with like-minded peers.
The St. Gianna Molla Pregnancy Outreach Center, a pro-life ministry which assists mothers, their babies and young children, opened its seventh location Friday, August 18 in Perry, New York, in a region of the Diocese of Buffalo known for high levels of poverty and need.
July 18, 2023 - Mass Marks 25th Anniversary of Shrine to the Unborn by Diocese of Buffalo Sound Studio
This week, the Catholic Diocese of Buffalo mourns the passings of Monsignor Dino Lorenzetti, who died July 12 at the age of 101, and Deacon James Cantella, who was ordained less than two months ago but was stricken by illness.
June 28, 2023 - Church Musicians' Guild of Buffalo to host Festival Mass by Diocese of Buffalo Sound Studio
St. John Paul II Church in Lake View, NY will host a Patriotic Rosary just days before the nation celebrates Independence Day. Here we learn more of the Patriotic Rosary's origin and what it is the people pray for during such a gathering.
When a terrible thunderstorm jeopardizes the students' field trip to the museum, Sister Justine recalls the tale of St. Christopher, best known for helping the Christ Child across a rushing river.
When one of the students reveals being mocked for being Catholic, Sister Justine shares the story of St. Bernadette of Lourdes, who interacted with Our Blessed Mother, while her peers questioned her well-being.
St. Stanislaus Bishop & Martyr Church celebrated its 150th anniversary with a Mass held Sunday, June 4, 2023, led by Bishop Michael Fisher. The church, also home to the Diocesan Shrine of St. John Paul II, is known in Western New York as the "Mother Church of Polonia," and was the first of several churches built in Buffalo by Polish immigrants in the late 19th Century.
Jeffrey Joseph Donovan's journey to priesthood was completed June 3, 2023, when he received the Sacrament of Holy Orders at his Ordination Mass in St. Joseph Cathedral.
In advance of his ordination June 3, 2023, Father Jeffrey Donovan sat with WNY Catholic Audio to discuss his life, and his call to serve Christ as a priest.
When a student is tempted to change his mind about donating his old toy collection to needy families, and instead horde more toys for his collection, Sister Justine steps in with the story of St. Francis of Assisi, who gave up his wealth to love and help others.
The Diocese of Buffalo's Department of Education celebrated local Catholic Schools and honored six individuals for their contributions to local Catholic classrooms and athletic arenas.
When a student is being made fun of for her new glasses, Sister Justine steps in and tells the tale of St. Lucy, the patron saint of eyesight and eye health, who was martyred for her dedication to God,
Meet Sister Justine, the new nun at Holy Family School, who brings with her many tales of saints throughout the history of the Christian Church. After meeting the students and telling the tale of St. Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows, she explains why Catholics call upon saints in their prayers, and clears up some misconceptions.
Sebastian Aristizabal, a native of Colombia, was ordained a Transitional Deacon in the Catholic Diocese of Buffalo at St. Mark Church, Saturday, May 13, 2023. He's the first of eight men who will join the ranks of the diocese's deacons this spring.
Bishop Michael Fisher participated in events Sunday, May 14, 2023 which marked the one year anniversary of the racially-motivated mass shooting at Tops Market on Jefferson Avenue in Buffalo, which killed 10 people and wounded three more.
The Catholic Diocese of Buffalo's Department of Education held its first-ever 8th Grade Retreat on Friday, April 21, 2023. WNY Catholic Audio has a recap of the day's events.
To formally end the year-long celebration of the Catholic Diocese of Buffalo's 175th Anniversary, the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra will play a free concert inside St. Joseph Cathedral Sunday, April 23. WNY Catholic Audio spoke with BPO Music Director and Conductor JoAnn Faletta to get a preview of the concert, and discuss the relationship between the Catholic Church and classical music.
WNY Catholic Audio recaps Easter Sunday Mass at St. Joseph Cathedral, led by Bishop Michael Fisher.
It's known as Tenebrae, or the Service of Shadows. It's an event that uses prayer, music, and darkness to mark the Crucifixion and deaty of Jesus Christ. Our Lady of Pompeii Church in Lancaster, New York played host to a Tenebrae service on the evening of Good Friday, April 7, 2023.
Following the Mass of the Lord's Supper every Holy Thursday, many Catholic faithful embark on a visit to seven churches, commemorating seven stops along Jesus Christ's path to the Crucifixion.
Each year, the Diocese of Buffalo hosts the Chrism Mass early into Holy Week. It's the annual blessing of the oils used in numerous sacraments throughout the year. The Mass is also an occasion for priests to renew their vocational promises.
Each year, the Diocese of Buffalo honors members of the laity who excel and lead in their service to their parishes, and the greater Catholic community. On March 18, 2023, St. Joseph Cathedral in downtown Buffalo hosted the annual Bishop’s Altar Server Awards.
The Catholic Diocese of Buffalo honored dozens of individuals and couples from nearly 70 parishes with the Lay Award of St. Joseph during a special Mass on Saturday, March 11th, 2023 inside St. Joseph Cathedral in downtown Buffalo.
The funeral for Buffalo Firefighter Jason D. Arno, who died in the line of duty March 1, 2023, was held inside St. Joseph Cathedral on Friday, March 10, 2023. Bishop Michael Fisher presided over the Mass, joined by numerous celebrants.Delivering the eulogy was Arno's brother, Delton Arno. Following his eulogy were remarks by former Buffalo Fire Commissioner and family friend Michael D'Orazio, Buffalo Mayor Byron W. Brown, Buffalo Professional Firefighters Local 282 President Vincent Ventresca, and International Association of Firefighters 1st District Vice President James Slevin. Following Slevin's remarks, he and Ventresca presented Arno's family with the IAFF Medal of Honor.
The funeral for Buffalo Firefighter Jason D. Arno, who died in the line of duty March 1, 2023, was held inside St. Joseph Cathedral on Friday, March 10, 2023. Bishop Michael Fisher presided over the Mass, joined by numerous celebrants.Delivering the homily was Rev. James Van Dyke, S.J.
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the solemn season of Lent, a time of prayer, fasting, penance, and charity in the weeks leading up to Easter. Bishop Michael W. Fisher of the Diocese of Buffalo presided over a noon-hour Mass in St. Joseph Cathedral. This recording is of the homily he delivered during Mass. It was spoken just before the distribution of ashes, the gesture which reminds us all of our earthly mortality.
Catholic Health, a hospital operator which manages five hospitals and numerous clinics in Buffalo and Western New York, marked its 25th anniversary with a special Mass February 17, 2023. The Diocese of Buffalo is one of Catholic Health's founding sponsors.
To mark Black History Month, WNY Catholic Audio welcomes Sister Roberta Fulton, SSMN, and Dr. Althea Porter from the Diocese of Buffalo to discuss Black Catholicism, and how the Catholic faith is an important element of Black history and heritage. (NOTE: More episodes are planned for November, coinciding with Black Catholic History Month.)
Catholic Charities, serving the eight counties of Western New York, continues its 2023 Appeal, hoping to raise $9.5 million to support its nearly 60 human service programs. On February 8, Catholic Charities president and CEO Deacon Steve Schumer welcomed Bishop Fisher into a handful of agencies run by Catholic Charities to learn more about their offerings.
Catholic Schools Week 2023 in the Diocese of Buffalo included several scheduled visits to schools by Bishop Michael W. Fisher. WNY Catholic Audio followed him at one of his stops, St. Joseph University School in the City of Buffalo.
Catholic Schools Week will be held in the Diocese of Buffalo, January 30 through February 3, 2023. WNY Catholic Audio spoke with the diocese's Secretary of Education, Dr. Timothy Uhl, to get a preview of activities, and which schools will get a visit by Bishop MIchael W. Fisher.
The Foundation of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo held its annual Catholic Education Luncheon Thursday, January 27 in Buffalo, during which it met a fundraising challenge which is just one part of a broader effort to secure financial support for families who need a little help to provide their kids a desired Catholic education.
The 50th March For Life, held January 20, 2023, was the first since the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Dobbs vs. Jackson Women's Health Organization overturned Roe v. Wade, the 1973 decision which legalized abortion throughout the United States. The Diocese of Buffalo sponsored a pilgrimage to the march for the first time since the COVID pandemic. Bishop Michael Fisher was among those to participate.WNY Catholic Audio was there, and has this summary of the visit.
The Catholic Diocese of Buffalo, through the sponsorship of its Office of Cultural Diversity and Social Justice, and its African-American Commission, hosted an annual Mass of Remembrance of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Sunday, January 15, 2023 at St. Martin de Porres Church in Buffalo.
Leaders from Catholic Charities and the Diocese of Buffalo joined to announce the fundraising goal for Catholic Charities' 2023 Appeal, adding the message that the need for support is greater this year following a string of tragedies dating back to last May's mass shooting.
Days after Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI's passing, and in advance of his funeral at the Vatican, the Diocese of Buffalo held a Mass for the repose of the soul of the retired pope.
The Catholic Diocese of Buffalo will host a Mass for the repose of the soul of Pope Emeritus XVI, who died December 31, 2022 in Vatican City. In the meantime, Bishop Michael Fisher issued a statement following the retired pope's passing.
Just a few days before Christmas, it was already busy inside St. Joseph Cathedral, with events including the Diocese of Buffalo hosting retired priests for a Mass and luncheon.
Over the past three decades, Father Roy Herberger has built a collection of approximately 670 various Nativity scenes, ranging from traditional to exotic themes. Most of them go on display each year at two local sites, but Fr. Herberger is seeking a permanent home for his entire collection.
Niagara University played host November 10th to an education summit, hosted by the Diocese of Buffalo’s Department of Catholic Schools. Guests were urged to believe that, despite the stats showing a steady decline in enrollment since 1960, better days can be ahead for local Catholic education.
The Diocese of Buffalo, which has been holding Masses at each of its vicariates during its 175th anniversary year, hosted its latest within its Western Niagara Vicariate.
Catholic Charities of Buffalo will mark one century of service in October 2023. But the centennial is already being marked with planned celebrations over the next few months. The year-long recognition began November 2, 2022 with a kickoff luncheon in downtown Buffalo.
On October 25, 2022, the Catholic Diocese of Buffalo and Office of the New York State Attorney General announced a settlement in the lawsuit filed November 2000 by the latter, in relation to how the diocese had handled past sexual abuse claims against it. Among the actions taken by the diocese has been the introduction of Melissa Potzler as its new Child Protection Policy Coordinator. Here she discusses her role with WNY Catholic's Michael Mroziak.
The Diocese of Buffalo and New York Attorney General's Office announced a settlement Tuesday, October 25, 2022, that concludes the lawsuit brought against the Diocese by the Attorney General in November 2020, related to the past handling of clergy sexual abuse allegations. The Diocese held a news conference, heard here, to explain the agreement. Representing the Diocese were Bishop Michael Fisher, newly appointed Child Protection Policy Coordinator Melissa Potzler, and attorney Todd Geremia.
The Catholic Diocese of Buffalo held a special Mass Sunday, October 24, 2022, to honor dozens of married couples marking milestones this year, ranging from 20 years to 76 years together.
Relics of St. Padre Pio, who famously told Catholic faithful to "pray, hope, and don't worry," were on display at St. Gregory the Great Church in Williamsville, NY. WNY Catholic was there as children attending St. Gregory the Great School got to see and venerate the relics up close.
The Diocese of Buffalo formally blessed and opened the sixth location of its St. Gianna Molla Pregnancy Outreach Center in Lackawanna, NY on Thursday, October 13, 2022.
Our Lady of Czestochowa Church in Cheektowaga, NY celebrated its 100th anniversary with a special Mass presided over by Bishop MIchael Fisher of the Diocese of Buffalo.
Educators from several schools within the Diocese of Buffalo gathered for a developmental day at St. Amelia Parish, Town of Tonawanda, October 7, 2022.
The annual Red Mass, offered for members of the legal profession, was held inside St. Joseph Cathedral in downtown Buffalo, October 5, 2022. It's a centuries-old tradition by the Catholic Church, held in Buffalo with the cooperation of the St. Thomas More Guild of Western New York, an organization of area legal professionals which is recognized by the diocese.
A special Mass celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Church Musicians' Guild of Buffalo was held Friday, September 30, 2022 at Fourteen Holy Helpers Church in West Seneca, New York. The Guild, since its inception, has worked to elevate and protect the quality of liturgical music, seen as an essential part of Catholic worship.
The Diocese of Buffalo hosted a special Mass for high school seniors enrolled in Catholic schools throughout the diocese.
The Diocese of Buffalo held its latest 175th anniversary Mass September 18, 2022 at Immaculate Conception Church in Wellsville, NY, located within the diocese's Allegany vicariate.
As school bells rang to open the 2022-2023 academic year in the Diocese of Buffalo, WNY Catholic visited two schools where new principals are entering their first year: Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Harris Hill, and the Catholic Academy of Niagara Falls.
Prior to the second of the Diocese of Buffalo's planned Renewal Masses, worshipers were led in the praying of the Rosary, after which the first of five knots placed in symbolic ropes last year was untied.
The Catholic Diocese of Buffalo held its second Renewal Mass, this time at St. Mary of the Angels in Olean, NY. The Mass comes weeks in advance of the implementation of Phase One of the diocesan Parish Family model.
Have you ever been asked, if you could have dinner with anyone in history, who would it be? To mark the Catholic Diocese of Buffalo's 175th Anniversary, we're imagining such dinner conversations with some of those who have left a continued impact on Buffalo and Western New York.In this final episode of the series, host Steve Cichon sits with Father Nelson Baker, the businessman turned priest who became known as the "Padre of the Poor," and is considered by many to be worthy of sainthood.
Have you ever been asked, if you could have dinner with anyone in history, who would it be? To mark the Catholic Diocese of Buffalo's 175th Anniversary, we're imagining such dinner conversations with some of those who have left a continued impact on Buffalo and Western New York.In this episode, host Steve Cichon sits with Mother Colette Hilbert, whose order founded what would become Hilbert College. Before coming to Buffalo, however, Mother Colette needed to overcome numerous challenges, and make a critical decision which would change her religious life's path.
Have you ever been asked, if you could have dinner with anyone in history, who would it be? To mark the Catholic Diocese of Buffalo's 175th Anniversary, we're imagining such dinner conversations with some of those who have left a continued impact on Buffalo and Western New York.In this episode, host Steve Cichon sits with Sister Ursula Mattingly, whose order founded what continues today as the City of Buffalo's oldest existing large hospital.
Have you ever been asked, if you could have dinner with anyone in history, who would it be? To mark the Catholic Diocese of Buffalo's 175th Anniversary, we're imagining such dinner conversations with some of those who have left a continued impact on Buffalo and Western New York.In this episode, host Steve Cichon sits with Bishop John Timon, the first bishop of the Diocese of Buffalo.
Have you ever been asked, if you could have dinner with anyone in history, who would it be? To mark the Catholic Diocese of Buffalo's 175th Anniversary, we're imagining such dinner conversations with some of those who have left a continued impact on Buffalo and Western New York.In this inaugural episode, host Steve Cichon sits with St. John Neumann, who helped establish several churches in the Buffalo area before the Diocese of Buffalo was formally established.
Our final program, featuring reflections on humor by Father John Mergenhagen and humorous songs from Father Bill Quinlivan. www.frbillsings.com
Early last year we did a program on the song, Against the Storm, produced as a benefit for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. The project has it's official CD release during the 4th annual Rock For The Cure at the Tralf Music Hall on Saturday, January 5. www.againstthestorm.org www.lls.org
More music and memories with Father Bill Quinlivan on both WNYCatholic Weekly and Catholic Today. Happy New Year!
Both Catholic Today and WNYCWeekly feature music and memories with Father Bill Quinlivan. Merry Christmas! www.frbillsings.com