Please Cut & Paste items in your bulletin as appropriate to your parish.    
The Diocesan Dispatch is usually published on Monday mornings by 8 am via email. Submission must be received by the previous Friday for inclusion and should be at least 2 weeks before an event date in order to have an opportunity to be included in parish bulletins before your event. You can email submissions directly to [email protected].

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Have space available in your bulletin this week? Consider including one of the ongoing resources: Click HERE for ONGOING RESOURCES

Diocesan Dispatch for Sept. 28, 2026

Stewardship Reflections for Bulletins

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Vocations Reflections for Bulletins

October Family Rosary Devotion in Milford
A family rosary devotion dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary will take place every Wednesday in October at 7:00 p.m.  in the Chapel of the Holy Spouses, Mary and Joseph at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, 7 East Main Street, Milford. This devotion will conclude with Benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament.

Get your tickets for Celebrate Priesthood 2026
On Thursday, Oct, 29 beginning at 5:30 pm join us at St. Paul Diocesan Jr/Sr High School as we gather for the 13th annual Celebrate Priesthood - Taste of the Diocese gala. We have established this annual event to thank our priests and to thank God for the gift of the priesthood in our lives. Proceeds benefit the Priests’ Retirement Fund. Learn more at https://worcesterdiocese.org/celebrate-priesthood.

Pilgrimage to Mexico for Guadalupan Jubilee Year
Join a group from Springfield Diocese for a pilgrimage to Our Lady of Guadalupe and Mexico City on December 9-15, 2026 . We still have a limited number of spaces available. Pope Leo 14th has just declared a Guadalupan Jubilee year from 10/12/26 to 10/12/27. A plenary indulgence is granted for all pilgrims. It marks the 50th anniversary of the dedication of the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe and the transfer of the miraculous image of the Virgin to the Shrine. For all of the details go to: 206tours.com/frdarcy/mexico or reach out to Teresa Benoit at: [email protected] or call 917-604-1155. 

2027 Pilgrimage to the Shrines of France
Join Fr. Stephen Lundrigan and members of our diocese on a pilgrimage to Lourdes, Paris, Normandy and MORE on Oct 25 - Nov. 4, 2027 with Collette Tours. For more information email Todd Jarvis at [email protected] for a brochure.

PAST DISPATCH NOTICES

Novena to the North American Martyrs 
Join us at North American Martyrs Church for our 5th annual Novena to the North American Martyrs, beginning Sept. 21 with Mass at 6:00 PM, featuring a different priest celebrating and reflecting on the life of one of the North American Martyrs. The Novena dates are Sept. 21, 22, 28, 29, Oct. 5, 6, 12, 13, and 19. It will conclude with our Feast Day Mass celebrated by Most Reverend Robert J. McManus. North American Martyrs Church is located at 8 Wyoma Drive, Auburn. Please note: There will be no 7:00 AM Mass during the Novena.

40 Days for Life begins Sept. 23
Worcester’s 40 Days for Life fall campaign begins Wednesday, Sept. 23 and runs up to and including Sunday, Nov. 1. The opening candlelight vigil at 470 Pleasant St., Worcester, begins at 6:00 pm and runs about an hour.

Annual Life Chain in Worcester Oct. 4
All are invited to join the annual Life Chain on Sunday, Oct. 4 from 2:00 - 3:30 p.m. This event of peaceful, prayerful witness to the sacredness of human life is held annually on Respect Life Sunday across the nation. Life Chain stations will be located at Elm Park/Highland St. and at Denny's Restaurant on Lincoln St. in Worcester and at White City Plaza in Shrewsbury. You may bring a chair if you'd like to sit and can stay for whatever portion of time you'd like. Signs will be available at the local Life Chain stations. The event will be held rain or shine. For more information, contact Joe Godek at 508-614-5971.

Rosary Gathering in West Brookfield
Saint Carlo Acutis Parish in West Brookfield will host Rosary Coast to Coast on Sunday, Oct. 4 at 4:00 pm at the parish center 30 West Main Street, West Brookfield. For more information contact Brian O’Malley at 774-234-6295 or [email protected]

New Adult Enrichment Programs in Northborough
St. Rose of Lima Parish, 244 W. Main St., Northborough is offering the following adult enrichment programs below They are free and open to the public.
Sept. 28 - 6:00 - 7:30 pm; Family Life Center: "Finding Our Way Home in an Age of Anxiety: An Introduction to the Life of Henri Nouwen"  Commemorating the 30th Anniversary of Nouwen's death, retired retreat director, Ernie Rivard, offers an overview of this priest, author and spiritual master.  
Oct. 17 - 12:30 - 4:30 p.m., Parish Hall; "An Afternoon of Reflection in the Tradition of Henri Nouwen: With Burning Hearts ~ Living a Joyful Life"  Based on Nouwen's spiritual insights, our afternoon will include prayer, documentary film on Nouwen, presentations and time for personal reflection.  Attendees have the option to stay for 5:00 Mass.  Presenter: Ernie Rivard, former retreat director at Calvary Retreat Center.
Oct. 29 - 6:30 - 8:00 p.m., Parish Hall; "Saint Francis of Assisi ~ 800 Years of Living  the Gospel"  Pastoral Associate, Theresa Fugardi commemorates the 8th Centenary of the Transitus, Francis' death (1226).  Come learn how the spirit of Francis still breathes life into our world and Church! 

Young Adult events at St. George Parish
St. George Church, 40 Brattle Street, Worcester: Young Adults ages 20 to 35 for the following: on Tuesday, Oct. 6 at 6:30 PM we will meet at St. George Church to pray the Rosary together and then go to dinner at Quinn's Blue Plate Restaurant, 661 Main Street in Holden. Pay individually. On Tuesday, Oct. 20 from 7:00 to 9:00 pm we will meet in St. George Church Hall for a Halloween Party! You are invited to join us and enjoy Music, BINGO, Games, Prizes, and Treats! Costume is optional.  If you have any questions and to RSVP, please contact Amber LaBonte by calling the Parish Office at 508-853-0183 x 110.  

Bereaved Parents Support Group in Worcester
Pieta is an ongoing support group for bereaved parents. Anyone who has experienced the death of a child is welcome to join us. This is a safe place for parents to come and share their pain and loss with other bereaved parents in a non-judgmental atmosphere. No matter how long it has been, or the age when one has to bury a son or daughter, the loss is profound and brings about significant changes in family life. We welcome parents of any faith to join us. Topics will cover all aspects of grieving. Meetings are held on the second Monday of each month at 7:00 PM in the conference room in the Church Hall at St. George Church, 40 Brattle Street, Worcester. for more information, contact Terry Gentile or Sue Stevens, PIETA co-chair at 508-284-0796 or [email protected].

SAVE THE DATE: Celebrate Priesthood 2026
On Thursday, Oct, 29 beginning at 5:30 pm join us at St. Paul Diocesan Jr/Sr High School as we gather for the 13th annnual Celebrate Priesthood - Taste od the Diocese gala. We have established this annual event to thank our priests and to thank God for the gift of the priesthood in our lives. Proceeds benefit the Priests’ Retirement Fund. Learn more at https://worcesterdiocese.org/celebrate-priesthood

Damascus Summer Youth Camp
Attention all Middle Schoolers! The Diocese of Worcester will be taking a group to the Damascus Summer Youth Camp at Summit Lake, MD July 4-9, 2027. We’d like to invite you to join us for this amazing and transformative experience! The camp is a great opportunity to connect with other middle schoolers from all over. At the camp, participants will participate in outdoor camp activities. There will also be great music, inspiring speakers, and the opportunity to encounter Jesus in the Mass, Eucharistic Adoration, and confession. Our group will be attending one of the middle school sessions which will be open to anyone entering grade 6-8 for 2027-28 school year (current 5-7th graders). Cost for the week is $670. To sign up or get more details, contact Tim Messenger at tmessenger@worcesterdiocese.org or at 508-929-4360. Sign-up deadline is October 27 or until spots are full. Space is limited!

Grief Support Group in Sturbridge
St. Anne-St. Patrick Parish is holding a faith-based grief support workshop this fall to help those who have experienced a loss. “Grieving with Great Hope,” a bereavement resource from Good Mourning Ministry, is dedicated to accompanying those who are grieving on their healing journey through prayerful, practical and personal grief support. The workshop is open to those grieving a loss of any type, regardless of faith, age, or when the loss occurred. The next series of workshops is scheduled for Saturdays, Sept. 12 through Oct. 10 at 9:00 am in the Rendezvous inside St. Joachim’s Chapel at St. Anne-St. Patrick church. pace is limited and registration is necessary. For more information or to register, please call the parish office at 508-347-7338 or email Chris Williams at [email protected]. Visit www.goodmourningministry.net to learn more about this grief resource.

Musical Bingo in West Brookfield
The Mary and Martha Sodality invites you to an evening of fun, food, and fellowship! Join us on Saturday, Sept. 26 from 6:00 - 8:30 pm in Dugan Hall at Sacred Heart Church, 22 West Main Street, West Brookfield.  Pizza and beverages available beginning at 6:00 pm.  Musical Bingo starts at 6:30 with music spanning the decades. Prizes awarded.  Amazing silent auction items!  Tickets are $20 and can be purchased by calling the office at (508) 867-6469 or emailing [email protected]. Proceeds help support parish and community needs/activities. Note: This is a 21 and over event.

Lebanese Festival in Worcester
All are welcome to Our Lady of Mercy Festival which takes place Sept. 26–27. Join us for a wonderful weekend of Lebanese food, music, games for kids, face painting, vendors, and family fun.  For more information, visit ourladyofmercymaronite.org/

Marian Tea in Worcester
The Cathedral Women's Guild will hold a Marian Tea on Sunday, Oct. 4 at 3:00 - 5:00 pm beginning with Benediction in the chapel followed by afternoon tea and fellowship in the cenacle. Bring your favorite tea cup! for more information email Cathy at [email protected]. Paul Cathedral is located at Chatham and High Sts., Worcester.

Fall Bazaar and Yard Sale in Still River
Immaculate Heart of Mary School Fall Bazaar and Giant Yard Sale will be held on Saturday, Oct. 10 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Come prepared to snatch up one of the Sisters' homemade apple pies at the huge bakery table! Stay for lunch (or eat all day!) at our variety of ethnic food booths! Enter raffles and play games – all at 271 Still River Road. Then head across the street to 282 Still River Road where you can browse for treasures in the Giant Yard Sale! Bring your family, tell your friends and come join the fun at the IHM Bazaar at Saint Benedict Center / IHM School Rain or shine! Free parking!

Explore Life, Faith, and Meaning at Alpha in Paxton
There’s more to life. Whether you have deep faith, no faith, or are just curious about life's big questions, there is a seat for YOU at the table. Come explore the basic Christian message with others in an open, friendly, and informal environment. Each week at Alpha we will enjoy a complimentary meal; watch a short, engaging video and share your thoughts in a relaxed, honest conversation. There is no pressure and no charge. We will meet on Sundays starting Oct. 18 from 4:00 – 6:00 pm at St. Columba Church, 10 Richards Ave, Paxton. Contact Terry Nummelin at 508-755-0601 with questions or register today at stcolumbapax.org/alpha.

Adult Women's Retreat in Medway
The BeLoved Young Adult Women's Retreat is a unique opportunity for women to discover their true identity, worth, and beauty as the beloved daughter of God. It will be held on Oct. 23-25 at Betania II Retreat Center, 154 Summer St., Medway. Register at www.pureinheartamerica.com/events/2026/5/29/beloved-womens-retreat-rpl89. Questions?  Call MJ Kriz at 508-341-1843 or email [email protected].

Registration Open for November Catholic Women's Conference
This year's Worcester Catholic Women's Conference will take place on Saturday, Nov. 7 at St. Joseph School, Webster. The theme is "Strength and Dignity are Her Clothing." For more information or to register visit www.wcwconference.com.

Holiday Fair in Douglas
St. Denis Church’s Annual Holiday Fair will be held on Saturday, Nov. 7 - 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. Includes Crafts, Raffles, Baked Goods,abd aKids’ Table. Luncheon Served from 11:00am to 1:00pm - Vendor spaces are still available.
Visit SaintDenisChurch.com for more info and updates. Located at 23 Manchaug Street, Douglas.

Support Pro-Life with a Choose Life License Plate
Support life every time you drive. The Massachusetts Choose Life specialty license plate offers a simple and visible way to affirm the dignity of human life while supporting services for women, children, and families. The plate is available through the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles. To learn more and find ordering information, visit chooselifemassachusetts.org.

Job Opportunities

Part-Time Parish Maintenance Manager
St. Anne, Southborough is seeking a reliable and organized Maintenance Manager to oversee daily facility operations. Responsibilities include cleaning, maintenance, light repairs/handywork, overall general upkeep and the opening and closing of our buildings. Qualifications include strong attention to detail, the ability to manage multiple priorities, robust organizational skills and carpentry experience is a plus. 24 hours per week, 8 AM-1 PM, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Salary is negotiable depending upon experience. For more information and to apply, contact the parish office at (508) 485-0141 or [email protected].

Administrative Assistant in Westboro Parish
St. Luke the Evangelist in Westborough is looking for a friendly and dependable Administrative Assistant for 24 hours a week, Monday – Thursday, 9:00 am -3:00 pm, to join our parish team. Please send a letter of interest and/or resume to Fr. Diego at [email protected].
 
Bereavement Support Group in West Boylston
Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish, 111 Worcester Street, West Boylston will hold its next 6-part series of "A New Day" bereavement support group starting on Monday, Sept. 28 from 1-2:30 p.m. and ending on Nov. 2. For more information or to register (required prior to the start of the sessions) call Renate Isbell (508) 835-3286.
 
Diocesan Wedding Anniversary Mass
Bishop Robert J. McManus will celebrate the Diocesan Wedding Anniversary Mass on Sunday, Oct. 18 at 3:00 pm at the Cathedral of St. Paul, Worcester. This liturgy of thanksgiving to God for many years of faithful witness to the sacredness of Christian marriage honors couples who are marking significant anniversaries (25th, 40th, 50th, etc.) this year. A light reception will follow downstairs in the Cenacle.  Family and friends are welcome! Couples wishing to attend should pre-register no later than October 8 so that commemorative certificates may be issued.  To register, complete the registration form at www.worcesterdiocese.org/wedding-anniversary-mass or contact the Office of Marriage and Family at 508-929-4311 or [email protected].
NOTE TO BULLETIN EDITORS:  Please include the Anniversary Mass announcement in your bulletin weekly through Oct.4 to ensure people can register prior to 10/8 deadline. You are also invited to utilize this information as a pulpit announcement if customary in your parish.

Job Opportunities

Facility & Human Resources Manager
St. Joseph’s Abbey in Spencer is seeking a reliable and organized Facility & Human Resources Manager to oversee daily facility operations and support human resources functions. Responsibilities include supervision of maintenance personnel, coordinating maintenance and repairs to buildings, employee relations, compliance to applicable laws, and administrative duties. Qualifications: Strong communication and organizational skills, leadership experience, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities. Construction experience a plus. This is a full-time position with health & life insurance, paid time off, and other benefits available. For more information and to apply, contact Wally Connor at (508) 885-8700 Ext. 550 or [email protected].

SECRETARY/ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT NEEDED
Immaculate Conception Church in Worcester is seeking a part-time Parish Secretary, 15-18 Hours a week. Skills required: Good communication and computer skills. Knowledge of Microsoft Office applications and Canva. Excellent organizational skills. Bookkeeping knowledge is beneficial but not mandatory. A successful candidate must have an appreciation for the Catholic Faith. To apply, please submit a resume to [email protected].

Part-time Custodial Position
St. Joseph the Good Provider in Berlin is looking for an energetic & dedicated individual to maintain the church & property. Hours are parttime and flexible. Position includes basic cleaning in the church and hall and seasonal projects/maintenance outside. Contact the office by email: [email protected] or phone: 978-838-9922
 
Financial Secretary
St. Joseph the Good Provider in Berlin is looking for a parttime Financial Secretary. The Financial secretary will receive, record, and deposit all funds received by the congregation in a timely, thorough, confidential manner. Useful skills/experience for this position are in financial record keeping; ability to keep detailed, accurate records, using QuickBooks, Excel, and maintain confidentiality. The financial secretary deposits cash/checks in the bank, issues payments. Contact the office by email: [email protected] or phone: 978-838-9922

Mini-Retreat for Women in Shrewsbury
The Commission for Women of the Diocese of Worcester is sponsoring our annual Mini-Retreat for Women. The theme is "Come to the Water" and will be led by Liz Cotrupi and Liz Cotrupi Pfunder. The retreat will be held on Saturday, October 3, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (Mass at 8 a.m.) at St. Anne's Parish, 130 Boston Turnpike, Shrewsbury. The Retreat will focus on how Jesus invites us to meet him at the well of his grace. Registration is $25 and includes a light lunch. For more information, please visit our website at worcesterdiocese.org/mini-retreat-for-women  or contact Susan Zybert at [email protected] or the Commission at [email protected].

COMING THIS FALL: “Introducing the Roman Catholic Faith”
A 15-session program to be held on Tuesday evenings this fall and early winter at Christ the King Church, 1052 Pleasant Street, Worcester. This program will introduce learners to all the major beliefs held by the Roman Catholic Church. It is designed especially for those inquirers unfamiliar with the belief of Catholics and/or who may be considering receiving the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist at the Easter Vigil Mass (March 27, 2027). However, all interested parties can join in, especially if they would like a “refresher.” The program will be held from 7:15 to 8:30 pm, on the following Tuesdays: September 1, 15, & 29; October 6, 13, 20 & 27; November 3 & 17; December 1, 8 &15; January 12, 19 & 26. Thereafter, from mid-January through Lent those wishing to pursue joining the Church will be offered the support customarily offered to “catechumens.” For further information, please contact Monsignor Thomas J. Sullivan by calling him at 508-754-5361 or emailing him at [email protected]. There is no cost to participate. Each participant will be given a free copy of United States Catholic Catechism for Adults.

Volunteers Welcome at the Mustard Seed
The Mustard Seed Catholic Worker in Worcester serves a free dinner to neighbors in need every weeknight. Volunteers help set up, serve, and clean up — no experience needed, and it's easy to come with a friend or two. Sign up at mustardseedcw.org or email [email protected]. All are welcome.

Volunteer with Ignatian Volunteer Corps
Ignatian Volunteer Corps (IVC) New England is interviewing applicants now for fall openings. IVC Service Corps Members combine direct service opportunities at non-profits serving those in need in our communities with monthly spiritual reflection in the Jesuit tradition. Volunteers, 50 years of age and better, serve one or two full days/week from September through June. For more information and an application, contact IVC New England Director Dave Hinchen: [email protected].

Volunteer Pianists Needed – Share Your Gift of Music
Saint Vincent Hospital in Worcester is seeking volunteer pianists to bring live music back to their atrium lobby. They are looking for individuals who would be willing to play for about an hour on a weekday. These informal performances will help create a calming, comforting, and welcoming environment for patients, visitors, and staff. It’s a meaningful way to share your talent and brighten someone’s day! If you or someone you know may be interested, please contact Leslie Harper at [email protected] or call 508-370-2631.

Special Religious Development
SPRED (SPecial RELigious Development) has concluded the monthly meetings for the academic year 2025 - 2026 at Sacred Heart of Jesus Hall, 11 Day Street, Webster. They will commence again in October 2026. Please contact Linda at [email protected].

Mass with ASL interpreter
St. Rose of Lima Parish in Northborough is offering a Mass with an ASL interpreter every fourth Sunday of the month at 10 am. Anyone in the deaf community is invited to attend.

BEWARE of Email Scams that appear to come from the parish
All too often, email scams are appearing that use the pastor's name or a parish staff name asking for gift cards or donations of some sort. BE VIGILANT and delete these. If you look closely they often use an email address that appears to be very close to the real email address of the pastor or some staff person, but is not real. Know that our parish will only seek donations through normal, announced requests, not an individual email looking for donations to be personally sent to someone. When in doubt, DELETE. Don't even open them.

Divine Mercy Ministry to Seniors
Volunteers are needed to spread Jesus’ message of Divine Mercy to seniors in local nursing homes and assisted living facilities. As a volunteer prayer group leader, you would lead a weekly 30-minute Divine Mercy prayer group using a simple prepared model of readings, prayers, and the Chaplet of Divine Mercy. If you feel that the Lord is calling you to this ministry of mercy, please contact Mary Higgins (413) 552-7231 or email Mary at: [email protected].