The Catholic Diocese of Youngstown was established on May 15, 1943, and was canonically erected on July 22, 1943. Located in Northeast Ohio, the diocese includes six counties, namely, Ashtabula, Columbiana, Mahoning, Portage, Stark and Trumbull. This area totals 3,404 square miles. The Catholic population of the diocese numbers 216,151 ( out of a total population of 1,223,958 ). Clergy of the diocese number 117 diocesan clergy and 19 religious order clergy. Some of these priests, however, work outside the diocese in a variety of ministries such as a military chaplain or director of a national organizations. Priests may be on "leave of absence" for a variety of reasons. Retired clergy (62) may live inside or outside the diocese. Although retired from active ministry, these senior priests are a valuable resource as they offer their services when needed to help in parishes by celebrating the Liturgy and Sacraments. Permanent Deacons (63), Religious Brothers (15) and Religious Women (209) also serve the people of the Church of Youngstown in various capacities. There are 115 parishes and two missions located in the diocese. Six high schools and 37 elementary schools serve 9,652 parochial students. The Catholic students not enrolled in parochial schools are served through parish religious education programs (14,137 elementary, 1,342 high school students). One Catholic university is located in the diocese, serving students. Catholic Charities Services meet the needs of those less fortunate through social service agencies, housing assistance, prison ministry, care for the aged, and more. For those with medical needs, three Catholic hospitals serve patients' physical and spiritual needs. The diocesan newspaper, The Catholic Exponent, reaches 36,000 homes. At the Central Services, or Chancery office, departments with 90 employees ( including clergy, religious and lay) serve the needs of people of the Church of Youngstown by offering programs, services and information to parishes and parishioners. These needs may range from providing basic information ("I just moved to town and don't know in what parish I should register.") to implementing religious education programs, to providing insurance coverage for parishes and institutions.

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