About St. Mary of Mount Carmel / Blessed Sacrament · Utica, New York
St. Mary of Mount Carmel / Blessed Sacrament Parish in Utica, New York, is a vibrant Catholic community rooted in Italian heritage and active in faith formation, sacraments, and outreach. Celebrating over 130 years of service, the parish offers Mass, Adoration, and a wide range of ministries including youth programs, Eucharistic ministers, and parish festivals. It serves as a spiritual home for families, students, and the wider community through worship, education, and compassionate pastoral care.
- Established
- 1896
- Patron
- Our Lady of Mount Carmel
- Rector
- Father Jim
- Diocese
- Diocese of Syracuse
Why belong here
Join a parish that celebrates its Italian roots through festivals, music, and community events while offering strong faith formation for children and youth. Active ministries like Eucharistic ministry, altar servers, and parish outreach provide meaningful ways to serve and grow in faith. The parish also supports families through sacraments, funerals, and weddings, creating a welcoming spiritual home.
Mass times at St. Mary of Mount Carmel / Blessed Sacrament
Weekly Mass schedule
Parish History
Founded in 1896 by Italian immigrants, the parish has grown through key phases including school establishment, leadership by Father Pizzoglio, and decades of community expansion. A 2026 video series documents its journey from founding to present-day vitality.
- Chapter 1: The Founding
- Chapter 2: The Evolution
- Chapter 3: Expansion
- Chapter 4: Father Pizzoglio
- Chapter 5: A Decade of Change
- Chapter 6: 1991 to Present
Faith Formation
The parish offers structured programs for children and youth, including First Communion and Confirmation classes. Faith formation is supported by homilies from Father Jim and Father Scott Vanderveer, and resources for parents and catechists.
- First Communion Classes (2026)
- Confirmation Classes (2026)
- Faith Formation for Families
- Catechetical Resources
- Parish Bulletin Archive
Ministries & Services
Active ministries include Eucharistic ministry, altar servers, and parish choir. The parish also provides pastoral care through funeral services, wedding planning, and prayer remembrance groups.
- Eucharistic Ministers
- Altar Servers
- Parish Choir
- Funeral Services
- Wedding Planning
- Prayer Remembrance Group
Community Events
The parish hosts annual events including the Italian Festival, ice cream socials, and golf tournaments. These events foster community spirit and cultural heritage while reinforcing faith through shared celebration.
- Italian Festival (July)
- Ice Cream Social
- Golf Tournament (August)
- May Crowning
- Easter Vigil
- Parish Festival Opening Night
Pastors & rectors through the years
- Father Jim2026-present
- Father Scott Vanderveer2020-2026
- Father Pizzoglio1991-2020
Key leader during a decade of change