IR/OR & Spiritual Life Pillar Joint meeting
Date: February 10, 2026
Time: 6:30pm
Location: SVP
In Attendance:
Darya Brach (IC), Deacon Marty (SVD), Bill Broderick (SVD), Grace Jaworski (ANN), Cheryl Krolewicz (ANN), Joe Morcelle (SVD), Evelyn Morcelle (SVD), Paul Murak (IC)
Consultants in Attendance:
Sharon Snyder (SVD)
Missing:
Randy Krolewicz (ANN), Linda Gonzalez (SVD), Frack Lewandowski (IC), Deb Keenan (ANN), Sr. Sharon (IC), Jessica Russo (IC),
Deacon Marty opened the meeting with a prayer.
Agenda Items
- Joint Pillar Opportunities for 2026
Deacon Marty led a discussion on the Diocese of Buffalo’s Make Everyone Count Program (MEPC). A handout from Sr. Louise was distributed. The group agreed to move forward with this initiative after Lent. The next step is to schedule a training session with Sr. Louise. Deacon Marty will contact her to coordinate the details.
Darya provided an update on Life in the Spirit, which will be offered as a joint pillar program for our community of parishes this fall. Fr. Bernie has approved the use of Immaculate Conception School and Church for the six-week retreat. The retreat will be held on Wednesdays from September 16 through October 21. - Lenten Updates
Joe Morcelle shared an update on Mission scheduled at SVP from March 14–21. After many years of hosting this program, the team runs it very efficiently. Promotional posters are displayed at all parishes, and both bulletin notices and church announcements are being made to promote the Mission.
Darya also provided an update on the Community Lenten Retreat, Life in the Eucharist, which will take place over three consecutive Sundays beginning February 22, 2026. Deacon Bill has agreed to serve as the witness speaker at the final session of the Mission at SVP on March 8, 2026. This will serve as a strong invitation for attendees to participate in the Mission at SVP. Registration opportunities will also be available at that time. - Family Council Updates
Discussion of a theme for 2026 was tabled until next year. The goal is to select a theme for 2027 by late fall 2026, allowing time to introduce it in January 2027.
Deacon Marty reiterated the importance of ensuring that all programs operate through a Pillar. - Additional Updates
Evelyn shared information about SVP’s Holy Monday program, We Are Here for You, featuring The Last Seven Words of Christ, presented by the Women of Faith Group.
Grace provided an update on Annunciation’s program, Eternal Rest: The Art of Dying Well. A flyer has been attached.
Darya led a discussion regarding the possibility of recognizing our clergy, on Clergy Appreciation Day, observed on the second Sunday in October.
Closing
The meeting concluded with the recitation of the Hail Mary.
Next Meeting
To be announced once a training date for MEPC has been confirmed with Sr. Louise.