Discover Our Rich Heritage
Southern Tier New York Catholic
The Southern Tier New York Catholic was founded in 2024 by local laity. Rooted in a commitment to supporting Roman Catholic clergy, staff and ministries across the Southern Tier increase faith through sharing knowledge and service. We hope to become a cornerstone of spiritual and social support in the region. Our mission is to foster a welcoming environment where faith can flourish and community bonds are strengthened. From humble beginnings, we hope to expanded our outreach and services, always guided by our core values of faith, hope, and love.
About STNY Catholic
Our Aim
The Southern Tier of New York Catholic was founded by area laity as a platform for Catholics across the region to share, celebrate, and strengthen their faith while serving the Church and community. This initiative highlights the increasingly essential role of lay Catholics in today’s Church—a role that St. Paul celebrated by acknowledging lay apostles in his Epistles. Just as Paul honored the contributions of early Christians, we aim to spotlight the active mission of the laity to build up the Body of Christ.
In our modern era, the apostolate of the laity must expand and deepen to address challenges such as population growth, technological advances, and complex social issues that require the laity’s unique insights and expertise. We strive to serve as a bridge, connecting and informing Catholics across many parishes in the Southern Tier, empowering them to respond more effectively to these evolving needs.
As our priests, who serve us, are stretched thin, the role of laypeople to support and extend their work as spiritual leaders is more crucial than ever. Through events, resources, and community initiatives, we seek to mobilize and inspire Catholics to live out their priestly, prophetic, and royal mission within their communities.
Following the example of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who balanced ordinary life with a profound union with her Son, we embrace her spirit of humility, service, and devotion. We encourage everyone to emulate her charity and commitment to Christ’s mission, fostering a network of support, prayer, and shared purpose. Through these actions, and with the nourishment of the Eucharist, laypeople find the strength to become “leaven in the world,” promoting God’s glory and making Christ known throughout the Southern Tier of New York.
Meet Our Leadership
John Brennan
Founder
Matt Murray
Co-Founder