A 150 years ago the Ogdensburg Diocese was born, sparking rememberance and celebration for Catholics everywhere. 

Father Bryan Stitt is the pastor at the St. Mary’s Cathedral in Ogdensburg, the home of the Ogdensburg Diocese. He was ordained nearly 20 years ago and, like so many Catholics, he says he has made the North Country his home. 

“So, to be here in the cathedral is a reminder that we have a connection to the Bishop, but also to all apostles and Christ himself,” he said.

What You Need To Know

  • The Ogdensburg Diocese celebrated it's 150th anniversary in 2023

  • The Diocese says Ogdensburg became the perfect home and representation of its mission

  • The Diocese now covers 12,000 square miles and eight counties in New York State

As more Catholics began to move away from Albany, many found Ogdensburg in Northern New York the best place to go. Stitt says it was a centralized location with water and shipping; however, there was also a large anti-Catholic sentiment at the time. 

“To be Catholic in the late 1800’s, some questioned if you were actually American,” he added.

Over time, he says the city was won over by the church's focus on family, faith and charity.

“That’s what brings down walls. That’s what bonds people together. That’s how the church grows over the years,” Stitt said.

Now 150 years, and 14 bishops later, this Cathedral has become more than a place to practice faith on a Sunday morning.

“We look to the parishes. We look to families and we look to vocations,” Stitt added.

The Ogdensburg Diocese covers around 12,000 square miles and eight counties in New York including Franklin, Essex, Clinton, St. Lawrence, Jefferson, Lewis, Hamilton and Herkimer.