Depending on one’s perspective, 60 years can be viewed as a long time or short. For the faithful of St. Cecilia Parish in Fort Myers, it represents a rich history and unlimited potential for the future.
St. Cecilia Parish was established on June 14, 1965, so it was appropriate to have a Parish-wide celebration on that day 60 years later. Bishop Frank J. Dewane was the main celebrant for the anniversary Mass, which fell on the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity. Concelebrating the Mass were current and former priests who served at St. Cecilia, as well as priests from neighboring Parishes.
“We gather in thanksgiving; looking backward, looking at today, but most importantly, looking forward as people of God here at St. Cecilia,” Bishop Dewane said. “We are here to look back with gratitude to those who built this Parish community, and praise those who continue to bring life to St. Cecilia each day as they prepare the way for the generations to come.”
St. Cecilia Pastor, Father Paul Dechant, Oblate of St. Francis de Sales, said the motto for the anniversary is “Looking back with gratitude, ahead with hope. Live Jesus now and forever.”
“The Oblates of St. Francis de Sales have served in the Parish since 1982, and as Pastor, I am honored to carry on the tradition of challenging people to ‘Live Jesus.’” Father Dechant said.
Originally founded as a Mission of nearby St. Francis Xavier Parish in 1963 within the then-Diocese of St. Petersburg, the first Masses were celebrated at neighboring Bishop Verot Catholic High School. The original church was dedicated in 1966 and a Parish Hall and rectory followed in 1972.
The Oblates of St. Francis de Sales assumed the administration of the Parish in 1982. Father Stan Dombrowski served as Pastor from 2001 until his retirement in 2020. During his time as Pastor, he oversaw the construction of Marian Hall which was blessed by Bishop Dewane in 2019.
Father Paul Dechant, who had served as Parochial Vicar at St. Cecilia in the past, was named Pastor in July 2020.
A reception was held in Marian Hall and the faithful were presented with a book about the Parish history, as well as many photos covering various milestones throughout the 60 years.
Geoff and Jeannie Becker moved to Fort Myers in 1996 with two young boys. They subsequently had a daughter and became very active in the Parish as Eucharistic Ministers, participating in the weekly rosary group, and helping when needed, including at fish fries, Vacation Bible School and more.
“It has been a blessing to be a part of such a wonderful Parish over the years. We cherish the friendships we’ve made and the priests who have led this flock,” the Beckers said.
St. Cecilia Parish currently has more than 1,300 registered families.
