Author: Bob Reddy

Newly appointed Bishop returns to Diocese

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Ordination/installation key information

The Ordination and Installation Mass of Bishop Emilio Biosca Agüero, O.F.M. Cap., will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, July 11, at St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers. Out of necessity, due to high demand and capacity constraints, this event is by Invitation Only. Parishioners are encouraged to join us in prayer, via livestream. Both the Ordination Mass on July 11 and the Solemn Vespers at 5 p.m., Friday, July 10, will be livestreamed via the Diocesan website at https://dioceseofvenice.org/livestream/, or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/DioceseofVenice. Join us in prayer as we welcome Bishop Emilio to the Diocese of Venice!

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Bishop-elect Emilio Biosca Agüero, O.F.M. Cap., returned to the Diocese of Venice for the week of June 15-20, 2026, ahead of his July 11 Apostolic Ordination and Installation as the third Bishop of the Diocese.

During his time in Venice, the Bishop-elect became better acquainted with the Diocese through a series of meetings with Bishop Frank J. Dewane, Diocesan Chancellor Volodymyr Smeryk, and many other key Diocesan leaders. The Bishop-elect was only in the Diocese of Venice for a few days when his appointment was announced on May 13.

A key aspect of the new Bishop’s visit was the opportunity to have meetings with priests in the four Deaneries (regions) of the Diocese. These meetings allowed many Diocesan priests to meet Bishop Biosca in an informal setting where both sides learned more about each other. Additional meetings took place with religious men and women, Deacons, as well as a visit to Guadalupe Social Services of Catholic Charities in Immokalee.

Bishop Biosca is making an effort to learn about how the Diocese functions. The new Bishop is especially interested in learning the pastoral needs of the different Parishes as well as what pressing issues will demand his attention as soon as he takes over as shepherd of the Diocese in July.

When not on the road meeting priests, the new Bishop was able to begin to move into his residence in Venice. He also stood for his formal portrait and took part in interviews, in both English and Spanish, in anticipation of his coming ordination, in an effort to help the faithful of the Diocese get to know him.

Welcome, Bishop Emilio!

2026 Catholic Charities Summertime appeal is here

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Every day, Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice, Inc., serves the most vulnerable population by feeding, housing, empowering, and encouraging those in need.

Now, you can help Catholic Charities by donating to the annual “Summertime and the Giving is Easy” appeal.

The Summertime appeal gets back to the basics by reminding the generous faithful about key areas where Catholic Charities assists people throughout the 10-county Diocese of Venice region. Many people live without adequate food, shelter, education or support. Catholic Charities offers people in need in Southwest Florida the help that brings about real change in their lives and provides hope for the future.

Each year Catholic Charities serves more than 100,000 individuals and families regardless of race, nationality or creed, providing a wide range of services at 21 locations throughout the 10-county Diocese of Venice. The support of the faithful allowed Catholic Charities to meet the continued demand for aid following the devastation of two hurricanes in 2024. Catholic Charities works hard to make a difference. A total of 93 cents of each dollar donated to Catholic Charities goes directly to more than 20 programs and services which ranks the charity among the most efficient in the country.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane said the support of Catholic Charities by the faithful of Southwest Florida is inspirational and crucial to ensuring “our brothers and sisters in Christ continue to receive the help and support they need. Please remember that every number represents a child, family or individual who relies on the support of Catholic Charities to get through a crisis. Catholic Charities does a tremendous job in providing programs that not only help in a crisis but assist in improving daily the lives of those they reach. Your support is appreciated and critical!”

Christopher M. Root, Chief Executive Officer of Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice Inc., said every contribution to the Summer Giving Appeal, no matter the size, becomes a blessing to someone facing hardship and a reflection of God’s love in action.

“For many of our neighbors across Southwest Florida, summer can bring increased hardship – children without reliable meals when school is out, families struggling to make ends meet with increased utility bills, and vulnerable individuals searching for hope during difficult times,” Root said. “At Catholic Charities, our mission is rooted in the Gospel, and is a call to love and serve one another with compassion and dignity. Your support for the Summertime appeal will help provide hope and critical support to thousands of individuals and families across Southwest Florida.

“From food and housing assistance to help with utilities, medications, counseling, and other essential services, your generosity allows Catholic Charities to continue answering the call for those most in need,” Root said. “Together, we can bring compassion, stability, and hope to our communities.”

Whether your passion is education, food security for children and families, preventing homelessness, or helping the vulnerable, please consider providing your support to the “Summertime and the Giving is Easy” appeal knowing your contribution will reach those in need.

For the purposes of better serving the needy, Catholic Charities hs divided into four regions, with each addressing the unique needs of the people who are seeking assistance.

 Region 1 serves Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties with a variety of key services. One of the most impactful programs is Our Mother’s House. Located in Venice, this two-year transitional housing program provides single mothers and their young children with stability, support, and renewed hopes during difficult times. The program gives mothers the opportunity to continue their education, participate in life skills classes, build financial stability through increased savings, and focus on developing careers for long-term success.

Region 2 serves Lee, Hendry and Glades counties. A program that has provided decades of outreach is the Catholic Charities Children’s Center in Fort Myers. The program empowers elementary and middle school students through academic tutoring; mentoring literacy support; social skills development; and comprehensive case management. Programs like this equip young people with the confidence, values, and skills needed to build bright futures. Today, 80% of the Center’s enrolled students go on to pursue higher education, while the remaining 20% continue their path through trade or vocational schools.

Region 3 serves all of Collier County. There is a special focus on Guadalupe Social Services, located in the heart of Immokalee. This program has served individuals and families in need for more than 40 years. Through hot meals, showers, clothing assistance, pantry services, and so much more, the program recognizes the dignity of every person, providing, compassion and hope to those facing difficult circumstances. Each month the program serves hundreds of individuals and families, including providing thousands of hot meals to those in need every month.

Region 4 serves DeSoto, Hardee and Highlands counties. Poverty in DeSoto County is a harsh reality for many families. To address the growing need, at the end of 2025, the Arcadia Food Pantry transitioned its drive-thru pantry into a choice pantry with expanded hours. This allows families to select the foods that best meet their needs. Since then, the pantry has seen a 500% increase in those seeking food assistance and is now serving more than 2,000 individuals each month. With a limited budget, the food pantry relies heavily upon community donations to continue meeting the growing need. In addition to food assistance, the pantry offers a clothing closet and essential items such as diapers, wipes, and hygiene products for families in crisis. Looking ahead, there are plans to expand the services offered in Arcadia by opening a soup kitchen to provide warm meals and additional support to the community.

The “Summertime and the Giving is Easy” campaign is a chance to brighten the future for those throughout the Diocese who come to Catholic Charities for help. Your gift, combined with others, will make a positive impact on our less fortunate brothers and sisters in Christ, and have a lasting, lifelong impact.

How to help

Online – Summertime Giving

By mail – Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., “Summertime and the Giving is Easy,” 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34285

By phone – 941-488-5581

Service locations

Arcadia, Bonita Springs, Bradenton, Clewiston, Fort Myers, Immokalee, Naples, North Port, Port Charlotte, Sarasota, and Venice.

Programs and Services

Affordable housing; after-school programs; anti-human trafficking; behavioral health counseling; case management services; clothing distribution, counseling services; disaster response and recovery; career development and empowerment; emergency shelter; farm worker housing; financial assistance; food pantries; supplement assistance program (SNAP); housing for vulnerable populations; homeless prevention; housing for homeless families; immigration services; infant/toddler supplies; rapid-rehousing; residential programs for mothers and children; senior housing; senior services; soup kitchen; summer youth program; transitional housing; veterans services; and youth mentoring program.

Making your donations count

$10,000 – helps maintain five transitional houses for homeless families on their journey to self-sufficiency;

$6,500 – provides a notebook computer for 10 children;

$3,000 – provides a senior with rent for four months;

$2,500 – helps 10 children to attend summer camp;

$1,600 – purchases a pallet of canned goods, providing 100 families with essentials;

$1,000 – keeps the lights on for four families;

$500 – provides groceries to a family of four for two weeks;

$250 – provides a new twin mattress and bedding for a child;

$120 – provides one counseling session for an individual in need, helping begin their journey towards healing and hope;

$75 – feeds a family of four for one week from a food pantry;

$50 – buys diapers for a mom in need.

Cathedral joins consecration to Most Sacred Heart of Jesus

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Epiphany Cathedral Parish in Venice embraced the opportunity to participate in the national consecration to Sacred Heart of Jesus with a Novena of prayer, Mass and consecration on July 11, 2026.

The consecration to the Sacred Heart of Jesus comes from a call from the U.S. Bishops to join the festivities surrounding the United States’ commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence by recognizing and celebrating the contributions of Catholics and the impact of our faith on the history of this country.

The consecration to the Sacred Heart of Jesus signals to God that His goodness is not forgotten and that our country relies on God’s providence for continued flourishing, bringing blessing and hope to a country suffering from wounds of division.

The U.S. Bishops consecrated the United States to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus during the Bishops’ biannual meeting in Orlando on June 11.

That same evening, Epiphany Cathedral celebrated the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass and consecration. Prior to the Mass, the Cathedral offered Exposition and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, and many took the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Msgr. Patrick Dubois, who offered the homily, said the consecration is something that might be viewed as just a simple act, but is not that.

“We bring the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus,” Msgr. Dubois said. “We cannot say our country is perfect, that there are no wounds or divisions, or we have all the answers, because we do not. But because Jesus tells us, “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you, remain in my love (John 15:9).’ Our nation needs that love. We need that love.”

While many are oppressed by burdens, families struggles and the young are searching for meaning, these are wounds that politics, money and success cannot heal.

“Tonight, the Church does not bring our nation to a program or ideology, She brings our nation to a heart – the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus,” Msgr. Dubios said.

The Monsignor asked the faithful to truly look at the Sacred Heart of Jesus and realize what is seen: his love in a wounded, but still burning heart; a heart pierced, but still open; and a heart crowned with thorns, but still offering mercy.

“Jesus reveals to us the deepest desire of His Heart, that is to ‘love one another as I have loved you.’ The Sacred Heart is not simply a symbol of Christ’s love for us, but an invitation for us to love as He loves,” Msgr. Dubois continued. “The renewal of our nation will not begin in government buildings or public debates. It will begin in hearts, transformed by the love of Christ, and it is graced through simple acts of charity, patience and sacrifice. We all need to learn that.

The Mass also included a Litany of the Sacred heart of Jesus, special prayer intentions and a reading of the prayer to the Sacred Heart by all. This was the same prayer with which the U.S. Bishops consecrated the United States to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus earlier the same day in Orlando.

The Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is celebrated on the Friday immediately following the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi), which the Church incorporated in the Liturgical Calendar in response to the mystical visions experienced by St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, in Paray-le-Monial, France, between 1673 and 1675. However, the foundational devotion of meditating on the wounded Heart of Christ was born at the foot of the Cross through the divinely inspired love which the saints bore from then on to the Sacred Passion of the Crucified and Pierced Christ. Later, the early Church Fathers and countless saints, such as St. Bernard of Clairvaux, St. Gertrude the Great, St. Bonaventure and St. John Eudes, all encouraged devotion to the Pierced Heart of Jesus. This is why many Popes have also lauded such devotion and encouraged the practice of consecrating themselves, their homes, and even whole nations to the Sacred Heart.

Prayer to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

On the occasion of the U.S. Bishops Consecrating the United States of America to the Sacred Heart of Jesus:

O Most Sacred Heart of Jesus:

You know the longings of our hearts, and you desire that we enjoy friendship with you.

From your pierced side, you have poured out the wellspring of life, for which we thirst.

Your heart burns with a love for all people to return to a right relationship with you.

We celebrate the abundant gifts you have given this nation, founded on the self-evident truths that our Creator has endowed

all people with the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

We make reparation for the offenses against you and against human dignity that have taken place in this nation.

May our hearts be united to yours, so that our families and communities enjoy peace and happiness; may broken

relationships be reconciled, injustices repaired, and the wounds of our land be healed.

May your holy Catholic Church serve as a sign, pointing all people to your infinite love.

O Desire of Nations and Center of History, we ask you to bless these United States of America.

Who live and reign with God the Father

in the unity of the Holy Spirit,

God, for ever and ever.

Amen.

Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us!

Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us!

Life in the Spirit seminar inspires Naples faithful

Posted on by Bob Reddy

By Sharon Tolnai, Special to the Florida Catholic

St. William Parish in Naples welcomed more than 200 parishioners and guests on June 13, 2026, for a daylong “Life in the Spirit Seminar.”

The seminar was designed to deepen personal faith and invite a renewed openness to the Holy Spirit. Organized by Cheryl Geary, Director of Adult Faith Formation at St. William, as an inter-Parish event, the seminar blended teaching, discussion groups, music, and prayer into a vibrant spiritual experience.

Participants began the day with a series of presentations by ministry leaders from various Parishes. Margie DeFrancesca, Barbara Rygiel, along with Dr. Ray and Gonette Caparros, each from St. Agnes Parish, offered reflections on recognizing the Holy Spirit’s Presence in daily life and embracing spiritual gifts with courage and humility.

Small-group discussions followed the presentations, giving attendees the chance to share personal experiences, ask questions, and build community. Many described these conversations as one of the most meaningful parts of the day, noting how they helped translate the seminar’s themes into practical steps for spiritual growth.

Dr. Sue Ellen Nolan, Director of Religious Education at St. Ann Parish, added her insights on cultivating a life of ongoing conversion, discipleship, and prepared the group for the prayer service.

The prayer service for a greater outpouring of the Holy Spirit was led by Father George Ratzmann, Pastor of St. William, Father Marco Mascia, Parochial Vicar of St William, Father Antony Lukka, Parochial Vicar of St. John the Evangelist Parish, along with Fathers Binu Joseph and Alan Baldarelli, Parochial Vicars of St. Agnes Parish.

Music filled the room providing a backdrop for moments of reflection as guests were invited to open their hearts to renewal and deeper faith.

Geary expressed gratitude for the strong turnout and the collaboration among neighboring parishes. Many attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose, describing the seminar as both uplifting and transformative—a reminder that the Holy Spirit continues to move powerfully within the Diocese of Venice!

Sharon Tolnai is the Program Coordinator at St. William Parish in Naples. She can be reached at sharon@saintwilliam.org.

News Briefs for the week of June 19, 2026

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Totus Tuus summer entering fourth week

The Diocese of Venice Totus Tuus summer program continues to inspire young people to grow in faith. The week-long program is visiting different Parishes each week and offering day camp for students entering grades 1 – 6, as well as evening camp for middle school and high school students entering grades 7 – 12. Three missionary teams are leading the campers. In the first two weeks, the program has taken place at nine Parishes, with the most recent at St. Agnes Parish, Naples, San Pedro Parish, North Port, St. Michael Parish, Wauchula, and St. Leo the Great Parish, Bonita Springs. Upcoming host Parishes include the following: St. Katharine Drexel Parish, Cape Coral, and Sacred Heart Parish, Bradenton (June 21-26); St. James Parish, Lake Placid, St. Catherine Parish, Sebring, Our Lady of Grace Parish, Avon Park, and Our Lady Queen of Heaven Parish, LaBelle (July 5-10); St. Joseph Parish, Bradenton, and Our Lady of Light Parish (Day Session)/ St. John XXIII Parish, Fort Myers (Evening Session) (July 12-17); Our Lady of the Angels Parish, Lakewood Ranch, and St. Jude Parish, Sarasota (July 19-24). Youth are welcome to attend any of the Totus Tuus camps, but registration is requested ahead of time. To register, please contact the hosting Parish directly. Parish contact information can be found at https://dioceseofvenice.org/find-a-parish/. For more information, contact Andres Prias at prias@dioceseovenice.org, or 941-441-1122.

Teen summer camp in Wauchula brings adventure

Teens from St. Michael Parish in Wauchula were offered many fun and exciting adventures during a “Chasing sunsets and memories at summer camp” the week of June 8-12, 2026. The week began with visits to the Cathedral of St. Jude the Apostle in St. Petersburg as well as the Shrine of St. Michael the Archangel and the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral, both in Tarpon Springs. The adventure continued with bowling and art, then a day of games and mini-golf. On Tuesday, the teens continued the adventure and fun with Bowling and Art. Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocese of Venice Superintendent of Catholic Education, join the group for a visit to the Ringling Museum in Sarasota and then a visit to the beach. The teens were accompanied by the Servant Sisters of the Lord and the Virgin of Matra.

Unlocking the Mystery of the Bible series

Have you ever wanted to read the Bible but didn’t know where to start? St. Agnes Parish, 7775 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples, is hosting an “Unlocking the Mystery of the Bible” series, 6:30 p.m., Wednesdays, from June 24 to Aug. 12, 2026. Each evening will include short and engaging videos, small group discussions, great conversation and a delicious meal. Free childcare will be provided along with dinner. No prior Bible knowledge needed – just come as you are. For more information, please contact Robert Massey at 239-592-1949 ext. 150, or robert@stagnesnaples.org.

Bradenton food pantry seeks food for children on summer vacation

The St. Joseph Food Pantry, 2704 33rd Ave. W., Bradenton, is seeking food for children on summer vacation through the end of July. Food needed includes but is not limited to: fruit jelly in plastic containers, cereal, granola/breakfast bars, protein bars, raisins, shelf staple milk boxes, mac & cheese, canned vegetables, canned meat, canned tuna, spam, etc. Drop off times at the St. Joseph Food Pantry are from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., and bins are also available in the Parish office during regular daily hours. For more information, please call 941-756-3732.

Summer educational series in Naples

St. William Parish, 750 Seagate Drive, Naples, is hosting a Summer Educational Series beginning at 1 p.m., June 24, 2026, in the Church Hall. The theme for June is “What You Should Know About Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias,” presented by Mark Beland, Co-Chair of the Collier County Dementia Care and Cure Initiative and Community Liaison of the Baker Senior Center. Topics to be covered include: gaining a better understanding of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias; increasing awareness of behavioral symptoms; equip others to communicate effectively with people with dementia; discover local resources available to assist those with dementia, their families, and caregivers; and learn about the risk factors regarding dementia and how to manage them. This event is open to all, and free to attend, and no RSVP is required. For more information, please call 239-330-2267.

Retreat Center open house June 27

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice is inviting the faithful to join them for a day of prayer, rest, renewal, and fellowship for an Open House, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., June 27, 2026, the Feast of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. Come spend time exploring the peaceful grounds, touring the facilities, meeting the team, and learning more about the retreats and programs offered at the Center. Whether you have visited many times or have never been before, the OLPH team would love to welcome you. OLPH is located at 3989 S. Moon Dr., in Venice. Please RSVP by June 20, by calling 941-486-0233.

Independence Day bike and golf cart parade to be held in Ave Maria

The Knights of Columbus Assembly 3862 of Ave Maria Parish in Ave Maria is hosting its 10th annual “God Bless America: Independence Day Bike and Golf Cart Parade for our Nation’s 250th Birthday.” The opening ceremony will take place in the Piazza in front of Ave Maria Parish church at 10 a.m. (following 9 a.m. Mass), with the parade, led by fire trucks, immediately following. All are welcome to attend and encouraged to decorate their bicycles, tricycles, golf carts, skateboards, and strollers. The route is approximately 2 miles long, but a shorter route, around the church, is available for younger riders. Light refreshments, including birthday cake for the Nation, will be available at the conclusion of the parade.

The Year of St. Francis

Bishop Frank J. Dewane has designated St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Grove City to serve as a pilgrimage destination for the Diocese of Venice in the extraordinary Jubilee Year of St. Francis, honoring St. Francis of Assisi on the 800th anniversary of his death. All are encouraged to make a pilgrimage to the Parish during this Jubilee Year for a unique experience of encounter, prayer and renewal. The Church and its Poor Clare Adoration Chapel are open to welcome pilgrims every Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and at other times by arrangement. For details, please visit the St. Francis of Assisi Parish website at https://www.sfoachurch.com/jubilee-2025.

Donations needed for Our Mother’s House

Our Mother’s House, a transitional housing program for homeless mom’s with young children operated by Catholic Charities in Venice, is making an appeal for donated cleaning supplies and other items. To learn more about the need, and how to drop off supplies, please call 941-485-6264, or email ckane@ccdov.org, or omh@ccdov.org.

Mental Health Counseling Services

Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice is offering Mental Health Counseling, and Tele-Health Counseling, for adults and children provided by licensed mental health therapists. If you or someone you know is feeling stressed, anxious, depressed, helpless, or overwhelmed, Catholic Charities can help. For more information, please call 239-455-2655 or visit Catholic Charities online

Prison Ministry volunteers needed throughout Diocese

Join the team of Diocesan volunteers who enter county jails and state prisons within the 10-county Diocese of Venice for pastoral outreach, to distribute the Eucharist and facilitate programs. Priests, Deacons, and lay volunteers are encouraged to assist in this ministry. Volunteers will first participate in an orientation program before entering the facility and will shadow experienced volunteers until they feel comfortable. Times and days vary by facility. Please contact Joe Mallof at 224-217-7139 or Bob Hiniker 863-558-0407 to learn where you can fit into this joyful opportunity.

Retreat Center seeks volunteers

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice needs your help; they are looking for volunteers. Help provide a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere for those who come to OLPH seeking transformation in Christ. Areas of need include reception, gardening, dishwashing, and serving meals. Contact the office to sign up at 941-486-0233 or visit www.olph-retreat.org/new-volunteer.

Free Rosary Repair Service

Send your broken rosaries in a padded envelope to Betty and Dick Holden, Free Rosary Repair Service, 7930 Estero Blvd., Unit 502, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931. Rosaries will be repaired and returned within the week of receipt. Donations of old rosaries are also accepted, which will be repaired and sent to missions. Include a note indicating repair or donation. For more details, please call 239-463-3993, 860-595-6370 or holdenbnd@gmail.com.

Private retreats available

The fall schedule of private retreats at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice is posted and has openings for Desert Days, 3, 5, and 7-night individual (directed) retreats. Group retreats are also available: To learn more or to register for a group or private retreat, please visit our website:  http://www.olph-retreat.org/individual-retreat-overview.

Celebrating the Real Presence – 2026 Corpus Christi marked with processions

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi) is a tradition that dates backs centuries and is often marked by a unique expression, a Eucharistic Procession. It is a celebration of the Eucharist and the Real Presence of Jesus Christ.

The Eucharist is central to the Church and is fundamental to our Catholic belief and life.

Occurring at Parishes within the Diocese of Venice and throughout the world, these Eucharistic Processions included hymns, prayers, and Scripture readings. The Blessed Sacrament is carried outdoors to show that the Lord is not confined merely to within the four walls of Church.

During his Apostolic visit to Spain, Pope Leo XIV presided over Mass, a procession, and Eucharistic blessing for the solemnity of Corpus Christi in Madrid’s Plaza de Cibeles on June 7, 2026 before a crowd of 1.2 million.

“As I begin my visit to Spain, it is with a heart filled with joy that I preside over this celebration on the Solemnity of Corpus Christi,” the Holy Father said.

Pope Leo said Corpus Christi is “more than just another celebration on the liturgical calendar… It is a way of returning to the heart of the faith to renew our love and fidelity to God.”

The Pope said the Corpus Christi procession is not “an exhibition, a remnant of folklore or a simple display of beauty… It is a profession of faith in the presence of the risen Lord, who is alive and continues to walk among us, who becomes bread to satiate our hunger for life, and visits the recesses of our hearts and history, even those shrouded in darkness.”

Bishop Frank J. Dewane said, “when Jesus Christ ascended into Heaven, leaving His disciples behind, He promised that He would be with them (and us) always, even until the end of the world. This promise was kept not as a symbol but with the True Presence of His Body and Blood in the Holy Eucharist.”

The Corpus Christi procession at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice occurred following the Vigil Mass on June 6. The procession in Venice with Msgr. Patrick Dubois, Cathedral Rector, included placing a consecrated host in the monstrance (a sacred vessel that displays the sacred host to the faithful). After a series of prayers before the Most Holy Eucharist the procession, led by altar servers carrying candles and an incensor, began.

Msgr. Dubois carried the monstrance with the Blessed Sacrament, proceeding out of the church under a canopy, to three temporary altars set up in the parking lot of the Cathedral. Participating in the procession were priests and deacons of the Cathedral, musicians and members of the choir, as well as hundreds of the faithful.

Larger processions took place at many Parishes throughout the Diocese, including Our Lady of Guadalupe in Immokalee, St. Joseph in Bradenton and St. William in Naples.

The Solemnity of Corpus Christi is observed two weeks after Pentecost. The Feast of Pentecost, which took place on May 31 this year, is celebrated 50 days after Easter Sunday, and commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles and other followers of Jesus Christ while they were in Jerusalem, as described in the Acts of the Apostles. Pentecost is recognized as the introduction to the Holy Spirit, and the birth of the Church.

Information from Our Sunday Visitor was used in this article.

Diocese send more than 500 Disciples of Christ into the world

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The four Diocese of Venice Catholic high schools graduated a record 510 into the world during a three-week span in May 2026.

This group, as they are each year, is impressive for their accomplishments earned through sacrifice, hard work and commitment in mind, body and soul.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated the four different Baccalaureate Masses and noted how the Diocese is proud of the graduates and made a point to recognize the role of parents and grandparents, expressing his gratitude to them for entrusting their children to Diocesan Catholic high schools for their education.

“It is my prayer that you have learned the message of Jesus Christ, and that it is woven into who you are as men and women made in the image and likeness of God,” Bishop Dewane said. “You were provided a tremendous opportunity to attend at Catholic high school. Now that this experience is something in the past, let the vision of God you have developed in your four years be how you respond to God’s call.”

An astounding 98 percent of the graduates are heading off to higher education at some of the top colleges and universities in the land. Dozens were recognized for their academic prowess with many graduating with honors. Of note, four have opted to join the military and three have accepted an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy, one to the U.S. Military Academy, and one to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy.

As a group, these graduates gave back to the community with more than 62,000 service hours while also garnering more than $48.2 million in scholarship offers.

In addition to academic awards, many of these students were scholar athletes with several earning state titles in a variety of sports. More than 70 of the graduates were offered scholarships to continue their athletic career at the next level.

At Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School in Sarasota, the graduation was May 22. Duke Bergstrom was the class Valedictorian and Gabriel Mehlum was Salutatorian. The Baccalaureate Mass was celebrated at Incarnation Parish in Sarasota on May 20.

The St. John Neumann Catholic High School Commencement Exercises were May 15 at the Naples school, with the Baccalaureate Mass at St. Agnes Parish on May 14. The Valedictorian was Thomas O’Brien and Salutatorian was Sophia Bosco.

The graduation for Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers was May 15, with the Baccalaureate Mass at St. Columbkille Parish on May 14. Verot had 37 students recognized as top graduates, and among those, Margaret Swift provided the introductory address, while Ambrielle Calixte offered the commencement address.

The Ave Maria Catholic Academy graduation in Ave Maria was May 26 at the school, with the Baccalaureate Mass earlier in the morning at Ave Maria Parish. Paul Jahnke was the class Valedictorian and Camila Pineros was the Salutatorian.

Congratulations to the Diocese of Venice Catholic high school Class of 2026!

2026 Special Olympics summer camp held at Cardinal Mooney

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Special Olympics athletes cheered as the third Camp Shriver summer camp kicked off at Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School in Sarasota on June 8, 2026.

The Special Olympics athletes were joined by dozens of student volunteers at Cardinal Mooney who warmly welcomed for a weeklong camp from June 8-12. Many of the students were returning volunteers from previous years who said the earlier experience was rewarding, and they delighted in reuniting with some of the athletes.

The athletes were equally excited to be taking part in the camp. One said he loves being outside because it is more fun than being inside all day. Another said she was anxious to make new friends.

Camp Shriver, in partnership with Special Olympics Florida, brought together student volunteers and athletes for a week of friendship, inclusion, and sports. This is the third year Cardinal Mooney hosted the camp, with this year bringing together more athletes than ever.

The week-long camp kicked off June 8, with an opening ceremony. Erin Foster, of Special Olympics Florida, praised Cardinal Mooney for being a host for the camp which allows the athletes to participate in a number of activities while also making lasting friendships.

“Their partnership and dedication to inclusion have helped this camp grow year after year,” Foster said. “They planned an amazing week of sports, activities, new experiences and plenty of fun. This week is about the athletes; celebrating their abilities, building friendships, trying new things, and creating memories that will last long after they leave Cardinal Mooney.”

Elizabeth Chappell, a Cardinal Mooney teacher and camp leader, was overjoyed with how many student volunteers gave up a week of summer vacation to participate. In fact, so many students offered to volunteer that 25 had to be turned away. “That is a wonderful reflection of the caring nature of Cardinal Mooney students.”

Following an opening ceremony, the campers went out to one of the athletic fields to learn about lacrosse from members of the Cardinal Mooney girls’ team. This was followed by time to work on craft projects, a light snack and a chance to cool down. Additional sports and team-building sessions followed throughout the week, all designed to foster confidence, teamwork, and meaningful connections.

Camp Shriver continues the legacy of Eunice Kennedy Shriver, founder of Special Olympics, whose vision created opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities to thrive through sports.

Chappell said Cardinal Mooney is proud to carry forward that mission, modeling its core values of compassion, community, and service.

Since its inception in Sarasota, Camp Shriver has been made possible through generous funding support from Suncoast Charities for Children, in partnership with the Sarasota Tarpon Tournament.

Lucy Nicandri, Executive Director of Suncoast Charities for Children, said that with approximately 19,000 special athletes across the Suncoast, “our goal is to expand funding in the future to offer as many athletes as possible the opportunity to participate.”

Diocesan seminarians serving summer pastoral assignments

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The formation of seminarians who are discerning a vocation to the priesthood for the Diocese of Venice is structured in such a way as to allow the candidates to gain valuable experiences both while in seminary and during summer break.

Diocese of Venice Vocations Director Father Alex Pince said there are 13 Diocesan seminarians who are on a summer pastoral assignment which were carefully planned to maximize the benefit for the individual seminarian as each continues on his discernment journey.

The pastoral work is intended to provide the seminarians with an opportunity to learn about the daily operation of a Parish while gaining practical experience particularly in the area of pastoral care. Typical work includes serving at Mass, learning to be a sacristan, visiting the sick, helping with OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults) programs, leading a Bible study, working with youth groups and much more.

The Parish assignments place the men with Pastors who will also serve as a mentor to them. The seminarian assignments differ each summer to provide the greatest opportunity for new learning experiences. Because each seminarian is at a different stage in their formation, the workload will vary accordingly.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane said the summer work keeps the seminarians engaged as part of their commitment to a prayerful life and spiritual development.

“While seminary formation stresses growth in human, academic, spiritual and pastoral formation, summer assignments give practical experience in pastoral ministry and provide the individual the means to grow and have real-life pastoral encounters,” Bishop Dewane added.

There will be eight seminarians (Nathaniel Byers, Connor Cameron, James Gargano, Jesse Gomez, Timothy Simmons, Carson Stecklein, Alain Valdivia, and Lam Vo) serving at parishes within the Diocese during the summer. One transitional deacon (Bao Nguyen) is also assigned to a local Parish, while one seminarian is taking summer courses (Tobias Lopez).

Three seminarians (Alex Baugh, Patrick Mulhall, and Sebastian Harding) are spending the summer at the Institute for Priestly Formation, Creighton University, Omaha, Nebraska. This program offers seminarians the opportunity to more deeply discern the faithful presence of the Lord in their lives as well as the interference and obstacles of the worldly spirit, so that they might keep growing in union with the Lord.

Please pray for our seminarians as they take part in the summer pastoral assignments.

Diocese of Venice Seminarians are supported through the Diocese Catholic Faith Appeal, the Knights of Columbus and the generosity of the faithful.

Parishioners from around the Diocese are encouraged to help support the seminarians in their studies and choice of vocation through prayer and financial assistance. Donations may be sent to the Diocese of Venice, Office of Vocations, 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34285.

For more information about the seminarians or Vocations, contact Father Alex Pince at pince@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-486-4720, or visit www.venicevocations.com .

Prayer for Vocations

God our Father, we thank you for calling men and women to serve in your Son’s Kingdom as priests, deacons, religious, and consecrated persons. Send your Holy Spirit to help us respond generously and courageously to your call. May our community of faith support vocations of sacrificial love in our youth. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

Amen.

Catholic Charities Awarded Major Grant Supporting Housing

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Funding will prevent evictions across region, saving hundreds of families

Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice (CCDOV) has been awarded a $250,000 grant from the TD Charitable Foundation through its 2026 Housing for Everyone (HFE) program. The grant will support efforts to prevent eviction and homelessness across Southwest Florida, and is expected to assist 189 moderate to low income families, representing more than 500 individuals, including approximately 225 children across Lee, Collier, Sarasota, and Manatee counties.
“Housing is a critical need, and an important part of what we do at Catholic Charities, said Christopher M. Root, Chief Executive Officer of Catholic Charities. “Thanks to the generous support of the TD Charitable Foundation, we can step in before a housing crisis becomes homelessness and help families to avoid the devastating impact of eviction. Further, this investment allows us to not only help families stay in their homes today, but to walk alongside them with the tools, support, and resources needed to remain stable long-term. We are deeply grateful to TD Bank for recognizing the importance of early intervention and for partnering with us to strengthen families and communities across the region.”

Approximately 76 percent of the grant ($189,160.) will provide emergency rental assistance, to prevent eviction filings before they occur. The remaining 24 percent ($60,840.) will fund a dedicated case manager delivering intensive case management, landlord negotiation, and service navigation in Sarasota and Manatee counties.

“Long-term housing stability is essential to financial security and overall wellbeing, which is why we are proud to support the important work of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice through the Housing for Everyone grant program,” said Paige Carlson-Heim, Head of Social Impact at TD and Director of TD Charitable Foundation. “By delivering early, service-based solutions that help renters avoid eviction, this organization is reducing disruption, strengthening resilience, and creating a foundation for individuals and families to thrive.”

Catholic Charities’ eviction prevention program is built on an early intervention model, working with families and landlords before legal action begins. Emergency rental assistance is paired with intensive case management to address the root causes of housing instability.

Catholic Charities will further maximize the impact of this investment by contributing $278,360 in in-kind support, including a case manager, wraparound services, and program operations—ensuring that donated dollars are directed toward meaningful, direct client impact. Wraparound services will include behavioral health support, financial literacy and life skills training, and employment assistance and income stabilization. This comprehensive approach is designed to deliver both immediate relief and long-term stability.

Each year, Catholic Charities provides approximately $1.9 million in financial assistance across these counties, helping families remain safely housed during times of hardship.

“We thank TD Bank for this generous support, which enables us to expand early intervention efforts that keep families connected to their communities, schools, jobs, and vital support systems,” said Root.

Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., is a nonprofit founded in 1984 by the Diocese of Venice in Florida and serves as a resource to the community, offering health and human services, food pantries, counseling, legal assistance, rapid re-housing, education, and disaster response. Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice is located in 10 counties in southwest Florida, including Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, Lee, Manatee, and Sarasota. The mission of Catholic Charities is to provide help, create hope, and serve all. Catholic Charities is a Four-Star Charity Navigator agency, recognized for its fiscal responsibility, ensuring the majority of funds collected are funneled directly back into local community programs. For more information, visit catholiccharitiesdov.org.

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