Happy first day, Father Joe! Your parish family is praying for you!

Today is the feast day of the First Martyrs of the See of Rome. ⁣ During the reign of the tyrant ruler of Rome, Nero (54–68 AD), Christians were persecuted and seen as a threat to the Roman way of life. Christians were blamed for causing the Great Fires of Rome, which were rumored to have been started by Nero himself to clear way for the building of his palace. ⁣ Christians were killed using various methods from crucifixion to be being burned alive to being fed to wild animals. Saints Peter and Paul were also martyred under Nero’s rule. ⁣ These men and women are the patrons of Rome. ⁣ First Martyrs of the See of Rome, pray for us!

Today we celebrate the Solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul. These two men were influential to the spread of the Gospel throughout the early Church. ⁣ St. Peter is called “the Rock” on which Jesus would build his Church. ⁣ St. Paul, on the road to Damascus, was called in a distinct way to be an apostle. Paul primarily preached the Gospel to the Gentiles (non-Jewish believers). ⁣ Both men are pillars in the history of the Church and are remembered for their virtue and dedication to God.

Well done, Father Phil, my good and faithful servant. Mass of Thanksgiving for the Pastorate of Reverend Philip G. Racco • June 28, 2026

We celebrate and give thanks for the faithful priesthood of Father Philip G. Racco! For years, he has led us to Christ, preached the Gospel with devotion, celebrated the Sacraments with reverence, and taught us that the Mass is not something we do, but something we become. His love for our parish family has left an immeasurable mark on our hearts. Fr. Phil, thank you for saying “yes” to the Lord and for sharing that yes with all of us. We are deeply grateful for your leadership, your prayers, your wisdom, and your care for every soul entrusted to you. Your St. Bernadette family will continue to pray for you and strive to Learn, Love, and Live the Mass each day! May God bless you as you begin a new chapter of your priesthood! We love you, Fr. Phil!

Join Fr. Joe and Dcn. Jeff for Brats & Benedict—a laid-back evening at the rectory with great food, good conversation, and the chance to get to know fellow young adults and our clergy! RSVP: https://forms.gle/hFmfCHrpjwNsadPP7

Today is the Nativity of St. John the Baptist. On this day, we honor the birth of one of the greatest prophets who prepared the way for Jesus. ⁣ John was born to Mary’s cousin Elizabeth, and her husband Zachariah in their old age. As an adult, John spent his days in the desert preaching repentance and the coming of the Kingdom of God in the Messiah who would come after him. ⁣ “…but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, and I am not fit to remove His sandals; He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.” (Matthew 3:11)

Thank you to everyone who participated in this gift for Father Racco! This episode of the podcast highlights just a fraction of all of the good that Father has done for our parish and the Church! Please keep him in your prayers during his final week here at our parish. We love you, Father Phil! Thank you for your faithful service and leadership!

Today is the feast of saints John Fisher and Thomas More. John Fisher was the bishop of Rochester (England) in the 1500s. Thomas More was a married layman who worked in Parliament. ⁣ Both men were caught in the controversy surrounding King Henry VIII who sought to divorce Catherine of Aragon and marry Anne Boleyn. Bishop Fisher represented Catherine in court supporting the legality of her marriage to the king. Meanwhile, Thomas More resigned from his position from Parliament. ⁣ Bishop Fisher and Thomas were thrown into prison and beheaded after refusing to take an oath to declare King Henry’s new marriage valid. ⁣ John Fisher is the patron of the Diocese of Rochester, New York, and Thomas More is the patron of statesmen, politicians, and lawyers. ⁣ Sts. John Fisher and Thomas More, pray for us!

Happy Father’s Day from the Diocese of Cleveland. Today, we honor fathers and father-figures. We are grateful for their love and presence in our lives. ⁣ “Fathers are not born, but made…Whenever a man accepts responsibility for the life of another, in some way he becomes a father to that person." – Pope Francis

Today the Church celebrates St. Romuald, Abbot. ⁣ Lord, amid the things of this world, let us be wholeheartedly committed to heavenly things in imitation of the example of evangelical perfection You have given us in St. Romuald the Abbott. Amen!

See you tomorrow morning! ☀️⛪️🛝

Vacation changes your schedule, but it doesn’t have to pause your faith. ☀️🙏 ⁣ A few simple ways to stay rooted while traveling: • Make a plan for Mass before your trip • Start the morning with prayer before the day gets busy • Communicate your plans and priorities with the people you’re traveling with ahead of time • Don’t leave your relationship with God up to chance ⁣ Rest is good. Adventure is good. But staying connected to the Lord while away can transform your entire trip.

Tonight, to celebrate Fr. Phil’s retirement, there was a gathering of about 30, including priests, deacons, and Bishop Malesic. One of the highlights was gathering the deacons and priests who had their first assignment at St. Bernadette with Fr. Phil. Special thanks to Fr. Joe Seebauer, Fr. Jeff Barnish, and Fr. Kevin Fox for joining us for this celebration!

Have you ever wondered what the different elements of Mary’s Immaculate Heart represents?

Mary’s Immaculate Heart is an example for Catholics to live by. Here are 3 different things that her immaculate heart teaches us about living a life of virtue. 1. Use Silence to reflect and meditate 2. Give God your “yes” or “fiat” 3. Unite with the suffering of others

Today, we celebrate the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. On this day, we honor the heart of Jesus and His abounding love for humanity. ⁣ The Solemnity of the Sacred Heart was added to the Church’s calendar in 1856 but has earlier roots following the visions of Jesus from Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque. Through her revelations about Jesus’ sacred heart, Sr. Margaret Mary encouraged a Thursday Holy Hour, First Friday Communion and the celebration of today’s feast.

Thank you, Father Phil, for your unwavering "yes," your spiritual fatherhood, your devotion to the Mass, and the many ways you have guided, encouraged, and inspired our parish family. May God bless you abundantly as you continue serve His Church. Happy Anniversary! 🎉

On June 11, 2026, as part of the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. bishops will consecrate the United States of America to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Parishes around the country are encouraged to join the bishops in celebrating the consecration of our nation to the Sacred Heart. ⁣ The event will be livestreamed on the USCCB YouTube channel on June 11, 2026 at 4 p.m. ET from the Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe in Orlando, Florida as a part of the bishops’ spring plenary assembly. ⁣ Livestream Link: https://www.youtube.com/live/j1WyC4TSeoo ⁣ Accompanying resources may be found at: https://www.usccb.org/consecration-united-states-sacred-heart-jesus

Today is the feast day of St. Barnabas. ⁣ Barnabas was a leader of the early Church and ministered to Christians in Jerusalem. He was also close to St. Paul and assisted him in his mission work. ⁣ Together, Paul and Barnabas evangelized, with much success, the Gentiles. Despite their efforts, not all took kindly to their message, and they were chased out of various cities. ⁣ Barnabas was martyred in his hometown of Cyprus where he is now their patron. ⁣ St. Barnabas, pray for us!

Sunday evening, Fr. Phil, Fr. Joe, and Fr. Joseph went to dinner to celebrate the 3 years that they have had together at St. Bernadette. As Fr. Joseph begins his first assignment at St. Sebastian today, please say an extra prayer for him!

Let’s pray and play together! See you tomorrow! ⛪️☀️

Today we celebrate the Memorial of St. Ephrem, Deacon and Doctor of the Church. "O Jesus, in that hour when darkness like a cloak shall be spread over all things, may your grace shine on us in place of the earthly sun." Saint Ephrem the Syrian

Shhhh…it is a surprise!!!

Jesus Christ reigns here. In our parish. In our families. In our hearts Corpus Christi Sunday 2026

This Corpus Christi, we stepped beyond the walls of our church and followed Our Lord through the neighborhood. We walked together as one parish family, singing, praying and bearing witness to the living God, truly present, in the Eucharist!

☀️ Your summer starts here at St. Bernadette! ⛪️ We have a season full of opportunities to connect, grow in faith, and encounter Christ in new ways. Check out some of what's happening at the parish this summer—we'd love to see you there! RSVP for Brats & Benedict: https://forms.gle/oh6Fx89XsBVQn66U8

Join us this Sunday for the feast of Corpus Christi! 10:30 am Mass Procession Cookout

Today is the feast day of St. Boniface ⁣ Boniface devoted his life to the evangelization of the Germanic tribes. The German Church was found to be falling to into paganism and had questionable practices. ⁣ Boniface sought reform of this region and was successful. However, on his final mission, he was murdered. ⁣ Boniface is the patron of Germany and brewers. ⁣ St. Boniface, pray for us! ⁣ Photo courtesy of: Martinvl, Wiki Commons https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:St_Boniface_statue_%28Mainz%29.jpg

Corpus Christi Procession and Cookout This Sunday • 10:30 am • See you there!

Today is the feast day of St. Charles Lwanga and his companions. ⁣ Charles lived in Uganda, Africa. He was imprisoned with 22 other Catholics for refusing to commit sexually immoral acts as threatened by the ruler Mwanga. ⁣ He was burned alive for remaining faithful to his convictions. ⁣ Charles is the patron of youth and Catholic action in Africa. ⁣ St. Charles Lwanga and companions, pray for us! ⁣ Photo courtesy of: Wulman83, Wiki Commons https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:St._Kizito_being_baptised_by_St._Charles_Lwanga_at_Munyonyo.jpg

In this episode of "As a Catholic Why?" Learn more about the use of incense.

Today is the Memorial of St. Justin, Martyr, Patron of Lecturers. He was a philosopher convert and engaged in discussions about the truth of Christian religion. He was persecuted and slain around the year 165. "As a vine, by being pruned and cut close, shoots forth new suckers, and bears a greater abundance of fruit, so it is with us." St. Justin St. Justin, Martyr, pray for us!

Our first-ever Club Night was everything we hoped for and more - games, laughter, community, praise, and encounter with the one who LOVES, SAVES, TRANSFORMS, and REDEEMS - JESUS! We thank God for all the people who put this incredible night together and, especially, for the youth of our parish family! Their joy in Christ brings so much hope to our parish as we continue to build the Kingdom of God!

Today is the feat day of St. Pope Paul VI. ⁣ Paul VI, originally born as Giovanni Battista Montini, became a priest in 1920 and in 1924 began work for the Vatican Secretariat of State. In 1954, he was named the archbishop of Milan and was selected to be a cardinal in 1958 by John XXIII. ⁣ He was elected pope in June of 1963 and continued the work of his predecessor during the Second Vatican Council in which 16 documents were promulgated. ⁣ Paul VI was also influential with his written encyclicals, visits, and relations with other countries. He increased the number of cardinals in the Church, giving many countries their first. Pope Paul VI died on August 6, 1978. ⁣ He is the patron of the Archdiocese of Milan. ⁣ St. Pope Paul VI, pray for us!

Mary, Mother of God, pray for us!

Happy Birthday, Father Joe! Your firm faith, hopeful spirit, and love for Christ continue to guide and inspire our parish family. As you prepare to lead our parish, know that we are grateful for your yes, your witness, your prayers, and your heart for God’s people. Praying this next chapter is filled with strength, grace, and joy! 🥳🎉🎂

Club Night is THIS SATURDAY! Let's kick off summer together! RSVP Here or in the comments: https://forms.gle/2BCjLS7PUXf9e8NM7

For 50 days, the light of Christ has transformed us. Now, like the disciples at Pentecost, we are sent out into the world. Carry the light of Jesus. Set the world on fire with His love and truth. Become a saint! Happy birthday to the Church! Happy Pentecost!🔥

Hey, middle schoolers…I guess you’re coming to Club Night! Parents RSVP Here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc5jXAeNQskW2ThmMmp5ejI57NlxF7wPH-XQGKFq5K65JHCPw/viewform?usp=header

✨Congratulations to Father Joe on his 4th Anniversary of Ordination to the Priesthood! ✨ Our parish family is incredibly blessed to have you as our priest and father. Thank you for being a gift to us! May God bless you! Happy Anniversary!! 🙏🏻⛪️🙌🏻 Drop your congratulations in the comments below! 🎉

Still feeling that joy! Photos from the Diocese of Cleveland and by RK Images Photography

All current 5th thru 8th graders are invited!! Email Maria Nicaise or click the link in the comments to RSVP!

This morning, Fr. Phil and Fr. Joe went to Fr. Joseph Ho‘s first Vietnamese Mass at Saint Boniface in Cleveland! It was a joyful celebration!

What a glorious day! Fr. Truong Joseph Viet Ho’s celebrated his first Mass. He is an incredible gift to our parish, to our diocese, and to the Church. We are so grateful for you, Father, and our prayers will be with you as you “go”! You will always have a home and family at St. Bernadette!

“It is not you who chose me, but I who chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will remain.” — John 15:16

Congratulations, Father Joseph Truong Viet Ho! ⛪️🙌🏻🎉

https://www.dioceseofcleveland.org/offices/communications/mass

We cannot wait to call you Father! Thank you, Deacon Joe, for all that you have done for our parish and for the Church! May God bless you!

This afternoon, the work of our hands prepared the space. Tonight, the work of our hearts will pray for Deacon Joe. Join us as we lift him up in prayer on the eve of his ordination! 8:00 pm - St. Bernadette Church

Today is the feast day of St. Isidore. ⁣ Isidore was a holy man who lived a simple life in the 12th century. He worked as a farmer all his life for a rich proprietor in Madrid, Spain. He often attended early morning Mass to allow him to be faithful to his duties. Isidore was married to Maria de la Cabez, also a saint. ⁣ While working in the fields, Isidore often had visions of angels. He spent much time caring for the poor providing them with food. ⁣ He was named the patron of the National Rural Conference in the U.S. in 1947. ⁣ Isidore is the patron of Madrid, farmers, and rural communities. ⁣ St. Isidore, pray for us!

Today is the feast day of St. Matthias. ⁣ Matthias was chosen to take Judas’ place among the twelve apostles. The disciples cast lots to pick between Matthias and a man named Joseph called Barsabbas. ⁣ Matthias was a follower of Christ from the beginning of Jesus’ earthly ministry and was baptized by John. The apostles desired someone who was a living witness of Jesus, as were they. ⁣ Not much else is known about St. Matthias including his death. He is the patron of carpenters, tailors, those with smallpox, and those struggling with alcoholism. ⁣ St. Matthias, pray for us!

This Sunday, we celebrate Jesus ascending into heaven, not to leave us, but to open the way for us to follow. He entrusts His mission to His disciples, to go and share the Good News with the world. ⁣ We’re sent, just like they were

Today is the Memorial of Our Lady of Fatima. This memorial commemorates a series of apparitions to three shepherd children (Lucia, Francesco, and Jacinta) in Portugal. Among the messages of these appearances was a call to conversion of heart, repentance from sin, and prayer (especially of the rosary). ⁣ “O God, who chose the Mother of your Son to be our Mother also, grant us that, persevering in penance and prayer for the salvation of the world, we may further more effectively each day the reign of Christ. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spriit, God, for ever and ever.” (Collect for Our Lady of Fatima – May 13)

We are thrilled to announce that Bishop Edward Malesic has appointed the next leader of our parish: Fr. Joe Menkhaus! Fr. Joe was ordained on May 21st, 2022. He has served as the Parochial Vicar at St. Bernadette since June 14th, 2022. In addition, he has served as the Chaplain of Holy Name High School in Parma Heights since July 1st, 2024. Bishop Malesic has appointed Fr. Joe as the Administrator of St. Bernadette effective July 1st, 2026. You may wonder, “What is the difference between a Pastor and an Administrator?” Many dioceses across the country are utilizing a one-year “Administrator” period to provide a transition for new pastors. This offers both the Priest and the Bishop the opportunity to ensure that the assignment is the right fit. Please pray for Fr. Joe as he prepares to begin this new stage of his priestly life. Please also pray for our current Pastor, Fr. Phil Racco, as he prepares to retire from administration and continue priestly ministry at St. Basil the Great parish in Brecksville.

On this Mother’s Day, we recall Jesus’ words from scripture, “Behold, your mother” (John 19:27). While spoken to John at the foot of the cross, we are all called to behold Mary, our mother. ⁣ Today we give thanks and lift up all motherly figures in our lives. Take time today to share with them your gratefulness for their presence and support. ⁣ We also remember in a special way those mothers who have entered eternal rest. Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother, may eternal rest be granted unto them. ⁣ Happy Mother’s Day!

Happy Mother’s Day 🌷⁣ Today we celebrate the incredible moms and motherly figures who love, guide, support, and sacrifice so much for us. Thank you for the ways you reflect God’s care in our lives each and every day.⁣ We also remember and pray for those who are with the Lord, spiritual mothers who continue to intercede for us from heaven 🤍⁣ Mary, our Mother, pray for all mothers today.

Bishop Malesic will ordain six men to the priesthood at 10am on Saturday, May 16. We continue to pray for them as they approach ordination. Watch live on the diocesan website (dioceseofcleveland.org) or Facebook page.

All middle schoolers — including incoming 6th graders and graduating 8th graders — are invited to Club Night on Saturday, May 30 at St. Bernadette! Join us for Mass, food, epic games, high energy praise & worship, and Adoration! Families are invited to begin with the 5:00 PM Vigil Mass. RSVP through the link below or in the bio! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc5jXAeNQskW2ThmMmp5ejI57NlxF7wPH-XQGKFq5K65JHCPw/viewform?usp=header

We are thrilled to share that, last night, Deacon Joe’s parents, aunt, and sister arrived in Cleveland from Vietnam! They are, understandably, very tired from their journey, but thrilled to have arrived! Thank you to everyone that prayed for this to happen!

Congratulations, Deacon Jeff, on the anniversary of your ordination! Thank you for all that you do for our parish family! May God bless you!!

Do not lose hope; St. Joseph also experienced moments of difficulty, but he never lost faith and was able to overcome them, in the certainty that God never abandons us. - Pope Francis

Today is the feast day of St. Pius V, Pope and religious.⁣ Pope Pius V led the Church at the conclusion of the Council of Trent. He was tasked with implementing the Council’s reforms. Among his contributions to the Church during his papacy were more formal training of clergy, a new missal, a new breviary, and Confraternity of Christian Doctrine classes (which we know as today as PSR).⁣ Pius V was canonized in 1712. He is the patron of reverent liturgies.⁣ St. Pius V, pray for us!

Today is the feast day of St. Catherine of Siena.⁣ Catherine was born into a large family in 1347. At the age of 16, she refused her parents’ wish for her to marry. Seeking a life of prayer, Catherine joined the Third Order of St. Dominic.⁣ At 21, she had a vision calling her into the public sphere to help the needy and vulnerable. Catherine would visit the sick in hospitals and help the poor in local communities. She often traveled and engaged in the politics of her time.⁣ St. Catherine of Siena died after becoming ill and having a stroke in 1380 at the age of 33. Pope Paul VI declared her a Doctor of the Church in 1970.⁣ She is the patron of Italy, nurses, and fire prevention.⁣ St. Catherine of Siena, pray for us!

That's a wrap on the 2025-2026 EDGE year! Feeling so grateful —for our teens, our volunteers, our families, and all the joy, energy, and faith they bring each week to youth group. It has truly been a gift to walk alongside these middle schoolers this year, to witness their growth, their friendships, and their love for the Lord deepen over time. What a blessing this year has been! 💛

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday.⁣ In today’s Gospel, Jesus says, “I am the gate. Whoever enters through me will be saved and will come in and go out and find pasture” (John 10:9).⁣ Jesus is the way to eternal life. It is through him that we are saved. He shows us that he is our protection and safety. Just like a shepherd lays down in front of the gate at night to keep the sheep safe, Jesus gave his life to give us new life.

Bishop Malesic will ordain four men as permanent deacons on Saturday, May 2. Pray for these men and their families. You can watch the livestream on the diocesan website (dioceseofcleveland.org) and Facebook page.

Today is the feast day of St. Mark the Evangelist. His gospel, which is the oldest and shortest, emphasizes Jesus’ earthly ministry, the timeliness of Jesus’ actions, and his role as servant-Messiah.⁣ ⁣ While St. Mark was not one of the 12 Apostles, he had close ties with St. Peter. Some biblical scholars suggest that Mark may have been present during Jesus’ arrest in Gethsemane.Mark is the cousin and traveling companion of St. Barnabas. He also accompanied St. Paul on his first missionary trip.⁣ ⁣ St. Mark, patron of notaries, pray for us!

Today is the feast day of St. Adalbert.⁣ ⁣ After the death of the Bishop of Prague, Adalbert was appointed bishop at the age of 27 shortly after becoming a priest. For six years, he worked to reform his home diocese in Bohemia but retired after his reforms fell short of his desired goals. He traveled to Rome to volunteer in a monastery.⁣ ⁣ Five years later, Adalbert returned to Prague for a brief time only to eventually leave for missionary work in Hungary. He ministered and preached the gospel to pagans near the Baltic Sea. While finding success there, he also made enemies and a pagan leader abducted and killed Adalbert in the year 997.⁣ ⁣ He is the patron saint of the Czech Republic and Poland.⁣ ⁣ St. Adalbert, pray for us!

Filled with the gifts of the Holy Spirit, they have been brought deeper into the heart of the Church. May they go forth with courage, faith, and joy - living as witnesses to God's love in the world. Come, Holy Spirit! 🕊️ Congratulations to our newly Confirmed! 🔥

Today is the feast of St. Anselm of Canterbury, a monk, abbot, and the Archbishop of Canterbury.⁣ ⁣ Anselm was a great philosophical writer and theologian, known as the father of Scholasticism, a popular philosophy of the Middle Ages. He was also the creator of the ontological argument for God’s existence as that which nothing greater can be conceived.⁣ ⁣ St. Anselm is the patron of theologians and philosophers.⁣ ⁣ St. Anselm of Canterbury, pray for us!

The good God does not need years to accomplish His work of love in a soul; one ray from His Heart can, in an instant, make His flower bloom for eternity. - St. Therese of Lisieux

Looking for a fun way to stay active, meet new people, and build community this year? ⚾💙⁣ ⁣ Join the Diocese of Cleveland Young Adult Co-Ed Softball League for the 2026 season! Open to ages 18–39 and all skill levels, this league is all about friendly competition, connection, and having a great time—whether you’re a seasoned player or just getting back into the game.⁣ ⁣ Come be part of a welcoming community, grow in friendship, and enjoy summer nights on the field!⁣ ⁣ 👉 Sign up today: dioceseofcleveland.org/youngadultsoftball

On this feast of St. Bernadette, we are thrilled to share with you that Deacon Joseph Ho received his first assignment yesterday. Bishop Malesic has assigned the soon-to-be Father Joseph Ho to St. Sebastian Parish in Akron under the direction of Father John Valencheck. St. Sebastian is a wonderful, vibrant parish with many ministries, including a wonderful school. While sad that Deacon Joe will soon be leaving us, we are so excited for him to begin his priestly ministry! Congratulations, Deacon Joe!

Did you know that Easter isn’t just one day? Just like Christmas, we celebrate Easter for an entire season. The Easter season lasts 50 days and begins with the octave of Easter (the 8 days immediately following Easter Sunday until Divine Mercy Sunday). The Church designates the Easter Season for us to more intensely celebrate Christ’s resurrection and His victory over death.