Author: Bob Reddy

One week in and students are fully engaged

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The ubiquitous car line, the bustling corridors, the ringing of the first bell, morning prayers and then classroom instruction, are scenes repeated each day at the 15 Diocese of Venice Catholic schools since the start of the 2026-2027 academic year on Aug. 10, 2026, with more 6,400 students engaged in schoolwork by Aug. 13.

The first days were full of everyone figuring out where to go, reuniting with old friends or making new ones, participating in their first academic lessons and taking part in a myriad of extracurricular activities.

At Diocesan Catholic schools, each student attended an opening Mass, either the first day of school, or within the first week.

Bishop Emilio Biosca Agüero, O.F.M. Cap., celebrated his first Diocesan Catholic school Mass as a bishop Aug. 18, 2026, at St. Francis Xavier Catholic School, Fort Myers.

Bishop Emilio recalled his youth, going to Catholic schools in northern Virginia, only later realizing the sacrifice his parents made to ensure all of their children received a Catholic education.

“They came to this country from Cuba with nothing, just a change of clothes and a few other things, less than what most people take with them on a weekend vacation,” the bishop explained. “They could have used their money anywhere, but they chose to spend it on a Catholic education. This taught me an important lesson, that the Catholic Faith must be really important to them and it must be for me.”

The spiritual grounding Bishop Emilio received from his parents was seen in everyday life, where vacations included the certainty of finding the nearest Catholic church and going to Mass on Sunday.

“Catholic schools build up the students with the teaching of subjects like English, math, geography, spelling and grammar,” Bishop Emilio said. “In a Catholic school, you learn these things in the context of the Gospel of the faith.”

After the Mass, the bishop fielded questions from the eighth-grade students. Questions ranged from wanting to know how he became a bishop, to what his favorite ice cream and movies are.

At some Diocesan Catholic schools, fun science experiments were a common way for students to get back in the groove of learning.

Third-grade students at St. Martha Catholic School in Sarasota worked in pairs to complete the exciting “Save Fred” science challenge. In the challenge, “Fred” the worm has fallen out of his capsized boat, and his life ring is nearby, but students cannot touch Fred or the life ring with their hands. Using only gummy worms, Life Savers, and paper clips, teams needed to first map out a plan and then work together to rescue Fred from the “sea.” This hands-on activity encouraged the students to practice communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and teamwork while having fun.

 

In an advanced placement statistics class at Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers, students are expected to create pie charts to represent categorical data. That means first building a relative frequency chart, calculating the percentage represented by each category, and then translating those numbers into a visual. To keep the lesson engaging, students were given a hands-on way to practice the process in the first week by using M&M’s candies. Students had to sort, do calculations and turn a handful of candy into a lesson in data visualization. And yes, there are definitely worse ways to learn statistics.

At St. John Neumann Catholic High School in Naples, the first week concluded with “House Reveal Day 2026.” Freshmen and transfer students discovered which “House” they’ll call home. From the first cheers to the start of new friendships, the day marked the beginning of House pride, friendly competition, and memories that will last long after graduation.

St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral has just begun a “House” system. The eighth graders were the first students introduced to the new system, excitedly discovering which one of four houses they will call home. At St. Andrew’s, each house is represented by one of the four Gospel writers, bringing students, faculty and staff together through Faith, Hearts and Minds. As each grade takes its turn joining a house, students can look forward to fellowship, friendly competition, school spirit and traditions that will grow for years to come.

Keep up with the latest Diocesan Catholic school news throughout the coming year by subscribing to The Florida Catholic at www.dioceseofvenice.org/news.

Bishop parish tour heading toward conclusion – for now

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Bob Reddy, Staff Report

The sweltering heat of August has not slowed Bishop Emilio Biosca Agüero, O.F.M. Cap. as he tirelessly continues his tour of Diocese of Venice parishes.

Through Aug. 19, 2026, Bishop Emilio has visited 48 of 61 parishes in the Diocese. Due to the timing of each visit, either a weekday or weekend morning or afternoon, each parish visit has been unique, some including the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass and parish celebrations, while others have been less formal visits with priests and parish staff.

Bishop Emilio has stressed that more formal visits will take place at a later time, with more advanced notice so more people can participate.

“It has been wonderful to see the priests and the parishes and to come to know and love the Diocese more each day,” Bishop Emilio said. “First thing that has struck me is almost every parish has told me that their parish is the best one. Many people have told me that they have searched all different kinds of Catholic churches in the area, and the one they found is definitely the best.”

The other common theme has been a plea from parishioners not to remove their priests. “That tells me a lot. The people of this Diocese really love their priests. That is important.”

Between Aug. 14 and Aug. 19, Bishop Emilio visited 11 parishes.

Among recent highlights, Bishop Emilio presided over his first baptism as a bishop on Aug. 16, at the Church of St. Patrick in Sarasota, during the regular 9:30 a.m. Mass. Coming from a parish in Washington, D.C. with lots of families, and having many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews of his own, the bishop was very comfortable performing the Sacrament of Baptism. Baby Cecilia was quiet throughout the entire ceremony until Bishop Emilio leaned too close to his microphone and said “Cecilia” a little too loud and startled the child. But no tears were shed and the proud parents and godparents were overjoyed by the moment.

Later that same day, Bishop Emilio was presented to the Holy Cross Parish community in Palmetto with a particular flourish. There, dancers dressed in Mayan and Aztec garb performed traditional songs welcoming the new shepherd. Each dance concluded with the performers kneeling in honor of the bishop.

Visits to St. Jude Parish, Sarasota, on Aug. 14, and St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Parish, Parrish, included learning about ongoing efforts to raise money for the construction of new churches for the growing communities in those areas.

On the morning of Aug. 15, Bishop Emilio celebrated Mass for the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary at St. Thomas More, Sarasota. He also returned to the location of his July 11 episcopal ordination, celebrating Mass on Aug. 17 at St. John XXIII, Fort Myers.

In addition, Bishop Emilio celebrated his first Catholic school Mass on Aug. 18, for the students and faculty at St. Francis Xavier Catholic School, Fort Myers. (See SCHOOL story on Page X for more details.)

The new bishop’s intention for this tour of the diocese is to visit the priests, deacons, religious and faithful at their parishes to get to know them in their own place, before traveling to Rome for a new bishops’ formation course and retreat in early September.

Bishop Emilio said he will take the prayers and hopes of the people of the Diocese to the tombs of St. Peter and St. Paul at that time.

The tour is a quick way for the bishop to get a “lay of the land,” and a first missionary orientation to the Diocese.  A visit to each school will follow in late September and October.

Upcoming parish visits include the following: (Aug. 21) St. Therese, North Fort Myers, and St. Isabel, Sanibel; (Aug. 22) St. Francis of Assisi, Grove City; (Aug. 23) Our Lady of Light, Fort Myers; (Aug. 25) Ss. Peter and Paul the Apostles, Bradenton; (Aug. 26) St. Katharine Drexel, Cape Coral, and St. Maximilian Kobe, Port Charlotte; (Aug. 27) Our Lady of Mercy, Boca Grande, and Our Lady of Miraculous Medal, Bokeelia; (Aug. 28) St. Leo the Great, Bonita Springs, and St. Cecilia, Fort Myers; and (Aug. 30) St. Finbarr and St. Agnes, Naples.

Please check with the local parish for a schedule of public events.

Bishop and area priests to celebrate Mass of Remembrance on Ian Anniversary

Posted on by Bob Reddy

By Karen Barry Schwarz, Special to the Florida Catholic

Bishop Emilio Biosca Agüero, O.F.M. Cap., will celebrate a Catholic Mass of Remembrance on Monday, Sept. 28, 2026, at 9 a.m. on the grounds of the Church of the Ascension, 6025 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach.

The date marks the fourth anniversary of Hurricane Ian’s devastating impact on Southwest Florida, and Fort Myers Beach, including the destruction of the Church of the Ascension.

“As we continue the important work of rebuilding Ascension Parish, let us come together to pray for those who lost their lives, those who lost family or friends, those who lost their homes, and all those hurt by this devastating tragedy, the effects of which are still felt today by so many,” Bishop Emilio said, adding that he hopes that all Ascension parishioners who are still in the area will attend.

Celebrated by Bishop Emilio, the Mass of Remembrance will be concelebrated by priests from the surrounding area, including Msgr. Stephen E. McNamara, Church of the Resurrection, Fort Myers, Father Lorenzo Gonzalez, St. Columbkille, Fort Myers, Father Jarek Sniosek, St. Leo the Great, Bonita Springs, and Father Bill Adams, former pastor of Ascension Parish.

The area priests have also been asked to review the current plans for a new church.

“We are grateful to these priests, and to all the area priests and parishes for their pastoral assistance during this time as plans to rebuild Ascension have been underway,” Bishop Emilio said.  “Their firsthand knowledge of the pastoral needs of the community will provide a valuable perspective on our plans for a new Church of the Ascension. My hope is that this process will ensure that the final plan faithfully serves the community, respects its unique location, and provides a lasting church for the worship of God.”

The plans for Ascension Parish have undergone some revision since originally presented, for a number of factors, said Dan Beeman, Director of Building and Construction for the Diocese.  But the essence of the design, and the plan to rebuild on the site, remain.

“We seek to follow Christ faithfully and build together a vibrant and Holy Catholic Church in all of Southwest Florida, including once again in Fort Myers Beach,” said Bishop Emilio. “The Diocese’s original vision for the new Church of the Ascension standing as a beacon to our Catholic Faith in Fort Myers Beach remains.  We look forward to a new beginning as we celebrate this Mass of Remembrance together.”

All are welcome, and we hope to see you there!

New Shepherd to Lead First Pilgrimage in October

Posted on by Bob Reddy

By Karen Barry Schwarz, Special to the Florida Catholic

In response to a gracious invitation from the Most Rev. Erik Thomas Pohlmeier, Bishop of St. Augustine, and the Most Rev. Felipe de Jesús Estévez, Bishop Emeritus of St. Augustine, the Diocese’s new shepherd Bishop Emilio Biosca Agüero, O.F.M. Cap., will lead his first pilgrimage for the Diocese of Venice in October.

Bishop Emilio invites the young adults of the Diocese of Venice to join him on a special two-day, weekend pilgrimage to the National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche at Mission Nombre de Dios in St. Augustine on Oct. 10–11, 2026.

It was at the National Shrine that the first Catholic Mass in the United States was celebrated, and the nation’s first Catholic parish community established.

“Surrounded by the very ground where the Catholic story of our nation first began, we will join generations of pilgrims in giving thanks to God and entrusting ourselves to the Blessed Virgin Mary,” said Bishop Emilio in an invitation to young adults of the Diocese.

The History

The history of Mission Nombre de Dios began on September 8, 1565, when Spanish Admiral Pedro Menéndez de Avilés arrived on the shores of present-day St. Augustine. Shortly after landing, Father Francisco López de Mendoza Grajales celebrated a Mass of Thanksgiving near this site. Spanish settlers brought with them a profound devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, and the Shrine is now recognized as the oldest Marian shrine in the United States, making it one of the most significant places in both American and Catholic history.

During the 17th century, a chapel was established at Mission Nombre de Dios and dedicated to Nuestra Señora de la Leche y Buen Parto, Our Lady of the Milk and Happy Delivery. Its image of Mary tenderly nursing the infant Jesus became a source of hope and consolation, especially for couples seeking to conceive, expectant mothers, families, and all those entrusting their needs to Mary’s maternal intercession. Over the centuries, the chapel was damaged and rebuilt, but the devotion continued to flourish. More than a historic landmark, the Shrine remains a living place of encounter with Christ and a powerful witness to the Catholic faith that took root there more than 460 years ago.

The Pilgrimage

After an afternoon and evening of prayer and fellowship on Saturday, the pilgrims will begin a three-mile walk to the Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche on Sunday morning, the Shrine’s annual feast day.  The group plans to arrive in time for Mass at 11 a.m., to be celebrated by the bishop at the Shrine’s outdoor Rustic Altar, followed by a closing lunch at 12:15 p.m.

“This is an opportunity to journey together in faith, deepen our friendship with Christ and one another, and entrust the young people and the entire Diocese of Venice to the maternal care of the Blessed Mother,” Bishop Emilio said.

Young adults, ages 18-35, are invited to participate for the entire weekend pilgrimage. Families, parish groups, and the entire Diocese of Venice community are invited to join the pilgrims on Sunday for Mass and lunch.

“This pilgrimage invites the young adults of the Diocese of Venice to step away from the distractions of daily life and journey together in faith,” said Andres Prias, Youth and Young Adult Outreach Director for the Diocese of Venice.  “May this pilgrimage help us encounter Christ more deeply, discern His call in our lives, and return to the Diocese of Venice strengthened in faith and in our bonds with each other, ready to serve.”

Registration is required for everyone attending the pilgrimage, Mass, and lunch. Individual and group registration options are available. To register, visit dioceseofvenice.regfox.

For additional information please contact Andres Prias via email, prias@dioceseofvenice.org, or phone, 941-441-1122.

 

Optional BOX

Pilgrimage Weekend Itinerary

 

Saturday, October 10, 2026

 

2:00 PM Arrival at KOA Holiday Campground, St. Augustine. Tent setup.

3:30 PM Welcome and Opening Prayer at the Pavilion

4:00 PM Group Fellowship and Community-Building Activities

5:00 PM Dinner

6:00 PM Walk to the Beach

6:30 PM Rosary on the Beach

7:00 PM Evening Prayer

7:30 PM Free Time at the Beach

8:30 PM Return to the Campground

9:00 PM Campfire, Marshmallows, and Fellowship

10:00 PM Night Blessing and Conclusion of the Day

 

Sunday, October 11, 2026

 

6:00 AM Wake-Up, Tent Breakdown, and Packing Vehicles

7:00 AM Breakfast

7:30 AM Instructions for the Pilgrimage Walk to the Shrine

8:00 AM Departure for the Shrine

10:00 AM Arrival at the Shrine; Preparation for Mass

11:00 AM Holy Mass celebrated by Bishop Emilio

12:15 PM Lunch

1:15 PM Conclusion of the Pilgrimage. Campers will be transported back to the KOA Holiday campground by shuttle bus following lunch.

Priesthood Sunday: Thanking and honoring our priests

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Bob Reddy, Staff Report

The U.S. Catholic Church celebrates Priesthood Sunday on Sept. 27, 2026, and the Venice Diocesan Council of Catholic Women (VDCCW) wants to make sure you know about it.

The VDCCW takes up the promotion and implementation of Priesthood Sunday as a particular mission, making sure that the faithful of the Diocese of the Venice are not only aware of it, but can easily participate.

Priesthood Sunday, established in the early 2000s by Serra International, the global lay apostolate for vocations within the Catholic Church, seeks to reaffirm the priesthood of Jesus Christ and its central place in the life of the Church. The day, now recognized on the official United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Special Observances Calendar, has been designated as a day to specifically honor and thank priests – without whom the Holy Sacraments could not be conferred – for a single day out of the 365 days of the year that they tirelessly serve their parishes.

“Without our priests, our church doors will close,” said Cornelia Zanetti, head of the VDCCW Seminarian Guardian Fund, who has worked on the effort to support Priesthood Sunday for many years.

Each year, on Priesthood Sunday, the VDCCW offers prayers for all living priests while at the same time using the moment to help the faithful honor their Parish priests, and to raise funds to support the Diocese’s future priests, its seminarians.

The VDCCW Priesthood Sunday outreach works as follows: Send a donation of any amount, along with the name of your priest, and the VDCCW will send a note to your priest letting him know he has been honored by you, and that a donation (undisclosed amount) has been made to the Diocesan Seminarian Fund to support future priests, in his name.

All donations support the Diocesan Seminarian Fund. The Diocese of Venice is currently blessed to have 21 seminarians discerning in four seminaries: Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary in Weston, Massachusetts; St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary in Boynton Beach; St. John Vianney College Seminary in Miami; and Mount St. Mary in Emmitsburg, Maryland.

The mother of Father Gordon Zanetti, pastor of Ss. Peter and Paul the Apostles in Bradenton, Cornelia Zanetti said that as a parent, “God has blessed me having my son, Gordon, ‘answer the call.’”

Since her son answered that call, she has met many wonderful parents at the seminary, and parishioners at the four different parishes where her son has been assigned.

“I hope there will be many more parents who will receive this blessing,” she added. “I encourage all parishioners who have a seminarian visit your parish during holidays, summers or during their pastoral study year, please be friendly and thank them for ‘answering the call. They need our encouragement and support!”

Celebrate and thank your priest today!  Send your donation to Cornelia Zanetti, Seminarian Fund Guardian, 5808 Gulf Drive, #204, Holmes Beach, FL 34217. Please make checks payable to the VDCCW Seminarian Fund and be sure to include the name of the priest you wish to honor.

The U.S. Council of Serra International, which initiated Priesthood Sunday in the U.S., offers the following:

“Blessing Prayer for your Priest.”

In your loving kindness, O good and gracious God, you sent your Son to be our shepherd and guide. Father ________ continues Christ’s ministry of working in the vineyard by sustaining and guiding your holy people. Bless Father ________. Let your Spirit uphold him always in his service to the people of this parish. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen

News briefs for the week of Aug. 21, 2026

Posted on by Bob Reddy

National speaker appears in Bonita Springs

The Cenacle of Mary welcomed Father Santiago Martin, the founder of the Franciscans of Mary (Missionaries of Gratitude), to a celebration on Aug. 15, 2026, at St. Leo the Great Parish, Bonita Springs. Nearly 1,000 attended the event. The Franciscans of Mary is an association founded in Madrid, Spain in 1988, and is an order of both religious and lay people. In 2007 Pope Benedict XVI gave pontifical approval and officially recognized the charism of gratitude. The pope then granted final approval of the statutes of the institution in 2012. Currently present in 44 countries, the Franciscans of Mary spread the spirituality of gratitude through imitation of the Blessed Virgin and St. Francis of Assisi.

Sarasota parish to host celebration of Cuban patroness Sept. 6

A Mass in honor of Lady of Charity, patroness of Cuba, will take place at 1:30 p.m., Sept. 6, 2026, at St. Jude Parish, 3930 17th St., Sarasota. For more information, please call 941-955-3934. All are welcome.

Wauchula parish seeks help for growing religious education program

The Servant Sisters of the Virgin of Matara, who serve at St. Michael Parish in Wauchula, and Holy Child Mission in Bowling Green, are seeking help for their religious education catechism program as they prepare to enter a new facility. The new building in Bowling Green includes 12 classrooms and will eventually become the new home for Holy Child Mission when all of the renovations of the building are completed. The new location is a necessary expansion to accommodate the religious education needs of this rural community. The current facilities in Wauchula are overflowing with students, with classes taking place in seven classrooms, the religious convent, the parish offices, parish hall, and even the priest’s office. While necessary, the move to the new location requires more equipment and is an opportunity to upgrade the teaching tools necessary for this technological generation. The religious sisters have created an Amazon Wish List (https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2JD66ZOTUV683/ref=hz_ls_biz_ex), to help fill the empty classrooms. Items needed include the following: White Boards, computers, TVs, tables, chairs, pencils, paper, plus many other items. The new religious education building is expected to be open by mid-September.

Music from Episcopal Ordination

Relive or hear for the first time the beautiful music of the Episcopal Ordination Mass! The New Shepherd: Lighting the Lantern is a music playlist from the Mass and includes a recording of the Mass Homily by His Eminence Seán Cardinal O’Malley, O.F.M. Cap.

Young Adult Retreat Sept. 13, 2026

The Diocese of Venice is hosting a young adult retreat 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., Sept. 13, 2026, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 South Moon Drive, Venice. DISCERN: “Hearing God’s Voice in Everyday Life” will be led by Mother Nikopoia, SSVM. Learn how to recognize God’s voice in the middle of everyday life. Come for a day dedicated to prayer, reflection, and learning how to discover God’s will. Registration fee of $35 per person includes morning coffee and pastries, lunch and retreat materials. For more information, contact Andres Prias, 941-441-1122.

Pennies for Babies!

The Pennies for Babies Fund is a Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice initiative that supports pregnant mothers and their newborn babies in need. It is part of the Diocese’s widespread Walking with Moms in Need program. The fund raises money to provide critical assistance to expectant mothers and newborns. If you wish to help mothers and babies in need, please consider giving to the Pennies for Babies Fund. Send checks (not cash) to Catholic Charities Pennies for Babies Fund, 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34285. For more information, contact Tavia Ames, 941-441-1101.

Rosary Congress coming in October

The Diocese of Venice annual Eucharistic Rosary Congress will take place in area parishes October 3-9, 2026. This year’s theme is “My spirit rejoices in God my Savior.” The Eucharistic Rosary Congress will unfold slightly differently at each local parish but usually will begin with the celebration of daily Mass and end with Mass at the same time the next day. During the 24 hours between the two Masses, perpetual Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament is usually offered, with the five decades of the Rosary being prayed every hour. Many parishes will also have the Sacrament of Penance available at some point during the 24 hours. The abundance of prayer offered through this diocesan-wide effort will undoubtedly draw from the Lord many graces upon our families, the Diocese, the Church Universal, the nation, and the world. Check with your area parishes for specific details and schedules; a list of participating parishes will be available soon. For more information, contact Jim Gontis at 941-486-4754.

Grow together in holiness

Catholic married and engaged couples are invited to the sixth annual Together in Holiness Marriage Conference on Oct. 24, 2026, from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at Our Lady of Light Parish in Fort Myers. Spend quality time with your spouse, hear from dynamic national and local speakers, and enhance your marriage through the Sacraments. Registration: $64/couple and $5/child for on-site childcare. An Early Bird discount is available through September 14 as well as scholarships upon request. This conference is presented by the Diocese of Venice and the St. John Paul II Foundation. To register, visit www.forlifeandfamily.org/events/th26-vnfl/ For more information, contact Jim Gontis at 941-486-4754.

Holiday Bereavement Outreach Retreats

Those grieving the loss of a loved one are invited to “There Is Hope: Coping with the Death of a Loved One During the Holidays”, a Catholic bereavement retreat led by Deacon Henry deMena and offered at four locations throughout the Diocese of Venice on Nov. 3-6, 2026. All retreats are from 8:30 a.m. to noon, at the following parishes: Nov. 3, Our Lady of Lourdes, Venice; Nov. 4, Sacred Heart, Punta Gorda; Nov. 5, St. Paul, Arcadia; Nov. 6, St. Agnes, Naples. For more information, contact Jim Gontis at 941-486-4754.

Catholic Charities summer appeal continues

Every day, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, serves the most vulnerable population in the Diocese’s 10 counties by feeding, housing, empowering, and helping all in need. This summer, you can be the one that makes a difference. Your acts of kindness have the power to transform lives. The Catholic Charities “Summertime and the Giving is Easy” appeal needs your support. The giving is easy! To donate, visit Summertime Giving, or mail a check to Catholic Charities, “Summertime and the Giving is Easy,” 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34285. If you have any questions, please call 941-488-5581. The appeal continues through August.

 

Pray for Safety! Hurricane Season

The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season continues through November 30. With a history of these storms producing destruction in the region, please pray for safety. To view or download a Prayer for Safety in Hurricane Season in English or Spanish, visit the Diocese of Venice website.

 

Volunteers needed for Prison Outreach

Join the team of Diocesan volunteers who enter county jails and state prisons within the 10-county Diocese of Venice to do pastoral outreach, 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.

 

Support After Abortion help available

Are you or someone you know struggling because of a past abortion? You are not alone. Healing retreats and support are available for anyone who has experienced an abortion, including mothers, fathers and other family members who have been hurt. For help, or to learn more about the Diocese of Venice support after abortion program, Project Rachel, simply call or text 941-412-5860, or email project.rachel@dioceseofvenice.org, in English or Spanish. All contacts are confidential.

 

OLPH seeks volunteers

Many hands make light work. Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice is seeking volunteers. Aid the Diocesan retreat center in providing a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere for those who come seeking transformation in Christ. Areas of need include gardening, dishwashing, dining room, answering the phones and more. For more information, or to sign-up, please call 941-486-0233, or email info@olph-retreat.org.

Thousands of Catholic school students return to classroom

Posted on by Bob Reddy

In addition to anticipation, excitement and joy, some tears were shed on the first day of School as more than 6,400 students returned the week of Aug. 10, 2026, for the 2026-2027 academic year at the 15 Catholic schools in the Diocese of Venice.

Most of the tears were from parents who were reminded that their children are growing up. Calls of “Love you!” “Miss you already!” “One more hug!” “Have a great day!” “Have fun!” sounded through the hallways. Some of the younger students had their own trouble leaving their parents behind on the first day, but most calmed down once they reached their first classroom. Once settled in the classroom, the students found new wonders to explore and quickly learned that they had many new friends.

Meanwhile, the older students dove right into classwork and made preparations for a long school year. Each of the students left after that first day knowing that many new and exciting possibilities await them, on many levels, during the coming months.

Bishop Emilio Biosca Agüero, O.F.M. Cap., was joined by Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocesan Superintendent of Catholic Education, for the morning prayer on Aug. 11, at Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School in Venice.

Bishop Emilio offered the opening prayer before saying that he wished they would have a good school year, before blessing the students and faculty with holy water.

In addition, at the conclusion of Mass at St. Catherine Parish in Sebring on Aug. 9, Bishop Emilio blessed the school children who were present, many of whom attend St. Catherine Catholic School.

At St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School in Port Charlotte, the students arrived for the first full day of school on Aug. 11 with big smiles, backpacks ready, and high-fives all around. From the moment families pulled up in the car line and kids hopped out, the excitement was contagious! The morning assembly in the main courtyard was joyful as the students were eager to begin a new year of learning.

The Catholic high schools, Cardinal Mooney in Sarasota, Bishop Verot in Fort Myers, and St. John Neumann in Naples, each had staggered starts to the year, with freshmen arriving first and the rest coming in as the week progressed.

At Neumann, the New Student Orientation offered a first taste of life on campus. Students walked through their class schedules, toured campus, found their lockers and parking spots, and got ready for the year ahead. They also had the chance to enjoy lunch and get a first taste of the new offerings from the school’s new cafeteria.

At Bishop Verot, the freshmen came to school on Aug. 7, for their orientation – locally known as FISH Camp – for a full introduction to life at Verot. On the first day of school for all students, Aug. 11, an annual Senior Sunrise took place. This tradition has become a special way to welcome the next graduates – the Class of 2027 – back to campus for the start of their final year at Verot. Seniors had a chance to spend some time together before the school day officially began, their last first day of high school is in the books, and the year is already off to a great start.

The Class of 2030 at Cardinal Mooney experienced a little bit of everything that makes the school special. They were welcomed to campus, celebrated Mass together, and heard from the deans, guidance department, athletics, campus ministry, and community service teams. They also learned all about the Cardinal Mooney House System and took time to walk through their schedules and get familiar with their new home.

As the week progressed, the more than 6,400 students at all 15 Catholic schools settled into the rigors of a balanced education centered on Christ.

Keep up with the latest diocesan Catholic school news throughout the coming year by subscribing to The Florida Catholic by visiting www.dioceseofvenice.org/news.

Cathedral bells lifted into tower

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The morning of Aug. 11, 2026, marked the next step in Epiphany Cathedral’s renovation.

Four custom bronze bells were installed in a 75-foot tower at Epiphany in Venice.

The procedure was a delicate maneuver that required near-perfect weather, with little to no wind. The stifling heat was an annoyance, but the work crews remained focused on their task. A crane was used to lower the assembly in pairs, with the largest – Star of Bethlehem – and Melchior being installed first. They are mounted in pairs by a steel yoke/headstock and bearings which hold the bells in place and allow for mechanical pivoting when they are rung.

Msgr. Patrick Dubois, Cathedral rector, was overjoyed by this significant milestone in the project that began in June 2024.

“How exciting! This is great,” Msgr. Dubois said after he gave the bells a final ring before being lofted into the air. “These will ring when it’s time for prayer; when it’s time for Mass; when it’s time for different liturgies – the Chrism Mass, funerals, baptism and weddings. We can call everyone to pray at that time.”

The new church bells are made of cast bronze and together weigh 3,658 lbs. They were crafted by Marinelli Pontifical Bell Foundry of Agnone, Italy, the oldest bell foundry in the world, now in its 27th generation as a family-run business. The Marinelli bells are well-known for their elegant form and distinctive, resonant sound, and are richly decorated with custom inscriptions and artistic reliefs, including the Diocese of Venice Crest.

Pasquale Marinelli, a representative of the foundry in Italy, was present to watch the installation of the bells. He wanted to see the conclusion of this important project, explaining through a translator that the bells were born from the earth, and forged in fire. Now they are becoming part of the mystic element between the music of the bells and heaven.

The bells were blessed on May 16, 2026, by Bishop Frank J. Dewane.

Baker Liturgical Art, a leading nationwide company dedicated to liturgical design, restoration and renovation, was commissioned by Bishop Dewane to complete a major restoration and renovation of Epiphany Cathedral, including the creation of the 75-foot bell tower and custom church bells.

The bells are of particular significance, as they represent more than simply architectural additions; they are living instruments of praise, inviting hearts to prayer and lifting the soul toward heaven.

The four bells are named after the Magi, or Wise Men, who visited Jesus at His birth, as well as after the Star that led the Magi to Jesus. Hence the bells are called Melchior, Gaspar, Balthazar and The Star of Bethlehem.

The renovation and reconstruction of Epiphany Cathedral began in June 2024, and work is expected to be completed by Thanksgiving this year.

Among the major new aspects of the Cathedral will be a marble reredos (altarpiece) with a large-scale mosaic of the Epiphany, and new liturgical appointments including altar, ambo, cathedra (bishop’s chair), baptismal font, stained glass windows, mosaic stations of the cross, new pews, and more. In addition, a statue of the pieta will be added adjacent to the Memorial Garden, which will remain undisturbed.

Since the reconstruction began, Mass has been held in the Parish Hall, the original Epiphany Parish church.

Some naming opportunities for liturgical elements of the cathedral are still available. To learn more, visit www.epiphanycathedral.org/naming-opportunities, or contact William Slayton at slayton@epiphanycathedral.org or call 941-615-0284.

Totus Tuus 2026 – Record number of children and teens complete summer program

Posted on by Bob Reddy

By Jim Gontis, Special to the Florida Catholic

Jesus said, “By their fruits you will know them” (Mt. 7:16).

For the fifth consecutive year, the summer, parish-based evangelization and catechetical Totus Tuus program has borne much good fruit. The term “Totus Tuus” is a Latin term meaning “Totally Yours.” The phrase signifies that Mary always leads us to her Son, Jesus, helping us to become more fully His disciples through her maternal intercession The program was brought to the diocese in 2022 by Bishop Frank J. Dewane.

The Totus Tuus outreach has grown each year in the number of host parishes and participants. In 2026, a record number of children and teens participated; more than 1,800 young people attended Totus Tuus. The number of participating parishes hosting the camp program also reached its all-time high of 20.

The national Catholic program is designed as a seven-week Catholic summer camp in which young adults, mostly college aged missionaries, serve different parishes for a week at a time as camp counselors and catechists. The goal is to focus on helping children and teenagers to encounter Jesus Christ.

The 18 young adults who became diocesan missionaries this year came from parishes within the diocese, as well as outside. The young adult missionaries received extensive training at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice. They were then split into teams of five or six and travelled to parishes who agreed to host the Catholic camps.

The missionaries all emphasized that the work is often tiring, even exhausting. At the same time, they were unanimous in saying that it was an excellent experience, and among the most important things they have ever done. Missionary leader and Georgia native, Rhiana Patterson, a recent graduate from Belmont Abbey College, said, “Totus Tuus has been so foundational in my life. The Lord has given me so much during this summer to grow in my faith, vocation, and spiritual life.”

Cristian Venancio, a missionary from Holy Cross Parish in Palmetto, who is entering St. John Vianney Seminary in Miami, said of his Totus Tuus experience, “I will carry what I’ve received in Totus Tuus with me in the seminary and throughout my life.”

The Totus Tuus weeklong summer camps have a strong emphasis on the Eucharist, the Rosary, solid Catholic teaching and devotion, and helping to build up within the children and teens a sense of the sacred and joy.

Mother Therese Nikopoia Klobe, SSVM, Director of Religious Education at St. Michael’s Parish, Wauchula, said it was a joy to have the Totus Tuus missionaries and camp at the parish. “The missionaries excelled in the classroom and teaching the children the love of Our Lady and the Holy Rosary.” One of Mother Nikopoia’s regular students, Ariana said, “I had such a great time at the Totus Tuus summer camp. The instructor was very interactive. He made it such a fun experience.”

In the daily catechetical lessons, this year’s Totus Tuus program emphasized the 10 commandments, as well as learning about, and praying, the five Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary. It also provided a great deal of grace for those attending through their reception of the sacraments, and in particular through the celebration of the daily Mass, opportunities to go to Confession, and Eucharistic Adoration. It was a lot of fun, with time dedicated to songs, skits, games, peppered in throughout the day.

The evenings were for students in grades 7-12, and included team-building exercises, faith-based testimony by a different missionary each night, and small group discussions, songs and games. The evenings concluded with Night Prayer from the Liturgy of the Hours. Each Tuesday or Wednesday night focused on Eucharistic Adoration and Confession. By the end of the week, many teenagers were feeling uplifted, more hopeful, and many came to deeper conversion.

Some lessons showed their effects in tangible and powerful ways. Liliana Ronderos, Faith Formation Director at St. Joseph Parish in Bradenton explained, “We had a special Totus Tuus camp this year. After lessons and discussions on the sacraments were presented during camp, two campers, a 6th grade girl and a 5th grade boy, cousins, asked their parents for Baptism. They were baptized on the last day of camp, surrounded by family members, their fellow campers, and the Totus Tuus missionaries.”

Father Vincent Clemente, pastor of St. James Parish in Lake Placid, summed up the Totus Tuus experience this way, “Children who participate in Totus Tuus appreciate the Catholic Church and the sacraments more. They get to know their faith better.”

“Totus Tuus!” Amen.

Prayers uplifting for new bishop

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Bishop Emilio Biosca Agüero, O.F.M. Cap., has been the Shepherd of the Diocese of Venice for little more than one month. In that time, he has visited three dozen parishes and many missions.

As the rigorous schedule continues through the end of August, Bishop Emilio said the one thing that has surprised him about being a bishop is that so many people are praying for him.

“At each stop, people come up to me and say they are praying for me,” Bishop Emilio said during an Aug. 12, 2026, visit to Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Venice. “I feel those prayers. They mean so much to me. It is hard to describe the effect and strength those prayers are giving me as I move forward in my duties as the shepherd of the diocese.”

Between Aug. 6 and 12, Bishop Emilio visited 10 parishes, and five missions, primarily in the eastern part of the Diocese. Visits have included the celebration of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, as well as small meetings with parish staff and volunteers, and often personal time with the priests.

The intention of this tour of the diocese is to visit the priests, deacons, religious and faithful at their parishes to get to know them in their own place, before Bishop Emilio goes to Rome for a new bishops’ formation course and retreat in early September.

Bishop Emilio said he will take the prayers and hopes of the people of the Diocese to the tombs of St. Peter and St. Paul in early September.

The tour is a quick way for the bishop to get a “lay of the land,” and a first missionary orientation to the Diocese.  A visit to each school will follow in late September and October.

During a stop at St. Michael Parish in Wauchula, Bishop Emilio said that in all of his assignments as a Capuchin priest, first in Papua New Guinea, then Cuba, and at a parish in Washington, D.C., he entered each with goal of giving himself completely to the place.

“At each stop, I went to go to stay forever,” he explained. “So, this is a fact-finding tour as I try to learn everything I can about each parish, which I am finding are all unique, as well as getting to know the priests. I do this because I am giving myself completely to the Diocese, in my heart and in my soul.”

Upcoming parish visits include the following: (Aug. 14) Our Lady Queen of Martyrs, and St. Jude; (Aug. 15) St. Thomas More, Sarasota, and St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, Parrish; (Aug. 16), Church of St. Patrick, Sarasota, and Holy Cross, Palmetto; (Aug. 17) St. John XXIII, Fort Myers; (Aug. 18) St. Francis Xavier, Fort Myers, and St. Raphael, Lehigh Acres; and (Aug. 19) St. Charles Borromeo and San Antonio, Port Charlotte.

Please check with the local parish for a schedule of public events.

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