Faith
I came back to the Church on a Sunday I couldn't explain, and everything that followed started there. This page is for anyone in Utica looking for the same thing I was: a place to belong, people who share your faith, and something worth carrying.
Community
Most of the groups around here are far better in person than they are online, so this list exists to get you in the door. Where a group has its own signup, it's linked. Where it doesn't, leave your email at the bottom and I'll connect you myself.
My parish in Utica. Mass times, confession, and the week's schedule are on the parish site. Come on a Sunday and find me after.
motherofoursavior.org ↗Recurring events for Catholics in their 20s and 30s, and the first place I'd send you if you're new here or coming back.
uticacatholicyoungadults.org ↗If you're searching
Named for Simon of Cyrene, the man pulled from the crowd to carry the cross beside Christ. It's built on a simple idea: nobody should carry their burden alone, and you are beloved by God exactly as you are, wounds and all. Small monthly prayer groups where someone listens without fixing, and a book that explains the whole thing in plain words. If you're looking for real meaning, start here. It's the best resource I know.
thecyrenianway.org ↗An open invitation
Once a month, a friend of mine hosts a dinner in Utica through the Cyrenian Way. It's for anyone: lifelong Catholic, coming back after years away, or just curious and not sure what you believe. You don't need to know anyone, and you don't need to explain yourself. No agenda, no pitch, just a table. Leave your email and I'll send you the next date.
This list is for faith events only. It is never used for business.
Questions
If you want to talk about any of this, email me directly at mike@miketaftfle.com. No form, just a reply from me.