Author: Bob Reddy

Pentecost – commemoration of the descent of Holy Spirit upon Apostles

Posted on by Bob Reddy

205 from 33 Parishes confirmed by Bishop

The journey of the Easter Season is concluded, and the Holy Spirit has descended to provide the faithful with the tremendous gifts of wisdom, knowledge, understanding, fortitude, counsel, piety and fear of the Lord.

Celebrated May 24, 2026, the Solemnity of Pentecost Sunday marks an important transition in the lives of the Apostles and clarifies their mission in creating the Lord’s Church on earth. It is traditionally viewed as the Church’s founding. Pentecost, which literally means 50, falls 50 days after Easter and is 10 days after the Ascension of the Lord. As a symbol of the “tounges of fire” of the Holy Spirit rained down on the Apostles, the clergy wear red vestments on this day.

“This is one of the greatest Feast Days of the Church in the context of Salvation History,” said Bishop Frank J. Dewane. “It is when Jesus establishes His Church on earth … the descent of the Holy Spirit, by the Father and the Son, signals the commencement and founding of the Church and all its works.”

This celebration commemorates when the Apostles, though still afraid, accepted the Gifts of the Holy Spirit and their role in carrying the message of the Lord into the world, the Bishop said.

The gifts of the Holy Spirit are sealed in the faithful through the Sacrament of Confirmation. Therefore, Pentecost is the time when those who have been baptized and are seeking to be more fully united to Christ within the Church are confirmed around the world.

At Our Lady of Light Parish in Fort Myers, Bishop Dewane bestowed the Sacrament of Confirmation upon 205 candidates representing 33 Parishes across the Diocese. These candidates were unable, for whatever reason, to be confirmed at their own Parishes during the past several months.

Bishop Dewane thanked the candidates for coming forward to be confirmed and said that the Sacrament of Confirmation must change them as they have been given a new beginning in their lives; they are making a permanent commitment that comes with corresponding responsibilities as an indelible mark is left upon their soul.

“We celebrate your presence here, that each one of you has come forward to be confirmed; to receive the Holy Spirit,” the Bishop said. “Every time we receive a Sacrament, we have an encounter with Jesus Christ. We must be changed as a result of that encounter. Today, you confirmandi are changed to be more that man or woman of God you are called to be.”

That change comes because living the faith must not flatline; which leads to spiritual death. Faith is always a continuing journey to grow closer to the Lord, Bishop Dewane continued.

“The Holy Spirit calls each of us; and we must respond in a very profound way to that call,” the Bishop said. “It’s not just what you are doing today, it is what you going to do when you leave here today, becoming ever more knowledgeable and acquainted with Jesus Christ in your lives.”

Bishop Dewane said it was no accident that brought the candidates forward. “It is a blessing. Take that strength and go forward, anointed with the gifts of the Holy Spirit.”

During the Sacrament, the confirmandi renewed their baptismal promises, which Bishop Dewane said is done to publicly proclaim who they are as Catholics and to have the courage, hope, faith and perseverance to be true followers of Christ.

As the Rite continued, the Bishop said an introductory prayer and asked all present to join him in praying for the candidates. He then recites an additional prayer pertaining to the Gifts of the Holy Spirit. Finally, the candidates were asked to come forward, with their sponsor placing their right hand on the candidate’s right shoulder. Bishop Dewane and Father Eric Scanlan, Pastor of Our Lady of Light Parish, who was delegated by the Bishop to assist in the Confirmation due to the large number of candidates, then administered the Rite. As two lines of confirmandi came forward, the Bishop and Father made the sign of the cross on each candidate’s forehead with the Holy Chrism Oil with their right thumb and said “Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.” The confirmed replied, “Amen.” At this point, the Bishop/Father said, “Peace be with you,” and the newly confirmed respond, “And with your spirit.”

One woman from St. Leo the Great Parish in Bonita Springs expressed her joy at being confirmed by Bishop Dewane. “What a beautiful day.”

A man from St. Francis Xavier Parish in Fort Myers explained how he drifted from his faith when his parents were divorced when he was a teen. It was through the encouragement of his grandmother, a steady presence in his life, that he sought the Sacrament of Confirmation. “This is an important moment for me. I feel complete as a Catholic. A closer relationship to the Lord is what I need in my life.”

Memorial Garden blessed and dedicated in Sarasota

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Hundreds of the faithful at St. Thomas More Parish in Sarasota gathered for the blessing and dedication of a renovated memorial garden and new prayer garden on May 27, 2026, following the 8 a.m. daily Mass.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane told the faithful that it is important to bless and dedicate such sacred spaces and to be “conscious of those who came before us, as they paved the way and give us strength that prepares the way for all of us to have a future encounter with Jesus Christ.”

Bishop Dewane celebrated the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass prior to the blessing and dedication. At the conclusion of the Mass, Bishop Dewane, led everyone into the renovated Mary’s Memorial Garden, which is in a space adjacent to the Parish church. The new Gethsemane Prayer Garden was built in its own space to the north of Mary’s Memorial Garden.

Father Nick Thompson, St. Thomas More Administrator, said he was grateful to the parishioners for having such a strong spiritual connection to Mary’s Memorial Garden, and the openness to dedicate new space was a blessing.

“St. Thomas More’s Parish family is an extraordinary example of a community dedicated to its mission of keeping faith, love and ministry alive,” Father Thompson said. Father also credited the generosity of parishioners Al Pezzillo, Arthur and Dolores Holliday and Al Ferrigno.

Mary’s Memorial Garden, established in 1989 by the Parish’s first Pastor, Father Gene Ryan, was inspired by details recorded in the Gospel of John, has since become the final resting place for more than 600 individuals remembered in peace amid the garden’s beauty and honored by plaques along a garden wall. The garden has undergone a transformative renewal. There is now a fountain along one wall, and a beautiful mosaic, created by Mila Apperlo, which depicts the Risen Christ. The garden was also repainted, turf was installed to protect against wind and rain, and new plantings were added to enhance the space.

The Gethsemane Prayer Garden is a serene space inviting meditation on the Passion of Christ. It’s physical placement beside Mary’s Memorial Garden underscores the symbolic connection between Mary and Jesus. Fourteen Stations of the Cross, each containing an Italian hand-painted illustration encased within a wooden frame were crafted by parishioners and woodworker Al Ferrigno. While the gardens are accessible from the church, there is also access to the spaces from the parking lot.

A reception followed in the Parish Hall.

Please pray for the safety of all during the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season

Posted on by Bob Reddy

As we enter the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season (June 1 to Nov. 30), a prayer is presented here by which one asks God for protection and safety from the storms that often threaten Southwest Florida. Everyone in the Diocese of Venice knows and understands the power of these storms and the suffering which follows in their wake. Please pray for safety.

Prayer for Safety in Hurricane Season

O God, Master of this passing world,

hear the humble voices of your children.

The Sea of Galilee obeyed Your order

and returned to its former quietude.

You are still the Master of land and sea.

We live in the shadow of a danger over which we have no control:

the Gulf, like a provoked and angry giant,

can awake from its seeming lethargy, overstep its conventional boundaries,

invade our land, and spread chaos and disaster.

During this hurricane season we turn to You, O loving Father.

Spare us from past tragedies whose memories are still so vivid

and whose wounds seem to refuse to heal with passing of time.

O Virgin, Star of the Sea, Our beloved Mother, we ask you

to plead with your Son on our behalf,

so that spared from the calamities common to this area

and animated with a true spirit of gratitude,

we will walk in the footsteps of your Divine Son

to reach the heavenly Jerusalem,

where a stormless eternity awaits us. Amen.

 

Oración para la temporada de huracanes

O Dios, Señor de este mundo pasajero,

escucha la humilde voz de tus hijos.

El Mar de Galilea obedeció Tu orden

y volvió a su anterior quietud.

Tu todavía eres el Señor de tierra y mar.

Vivimos en la sombra del peligro sobre el cual no tenemos control;

el Golfo, como un violento gigante, puede despertar de su aparente letargo,

sobrepasar sus límites, invadir nuestra tierra y sembrar caos y desastre.

Durante esta temporada de huracanes acudimos a Ti, O Padre Misericordioso.

Líbranos de tragedias como las pasadas que están tan vivas en nuestra

memoria y cuyas heridas rehúsan ser curadas con el paso del tiempo.

O Virgen, Estrella del Mar, nuestra amada Madre, te pedimos

que intercedas ante tu Hijo por nosotros,

para que nos libre de las calamidades comunes a esta área,

y animados con un verdadero espíritu de gratitude

caminemos en los pasos de tu Divino Hijo

para llegar a la Jerusalén Celestial,

donde una eternidad sin tormentas nos espera. Amen.

Be prepared: 2026 Hurricane Season starts June 1

Posted on by Bob Reddy

It is that time of year again! The weather turns hot and humid across Florida beginning in June and residents turn a wary eye toward the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico for the development of potentially hazardous hurricanes.

The 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season starts on Monday, June 1, and now is the time for all to make sure they are prepared and ready should a tropical system threaten. Emergency managers stress that preparation and vigilance are keys to safety and security from the power of nature.

Forecasters with National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) are expecting a below-normal hurricane season for the Atlantic basin this year. NOAA, citing an unusually strong El Niño, is forecasting a total of 8-14 named storms (winds in excess of 39 mph), 3-6 hurricanes (winds in excess of 74 mph), and 1-3 major hurricanes (Category 3 or higher with winds in excess of 110 mph). An average season has 14 named storms with seven hurricanes, including three major hurricanes. Therefore, upon hearing the names Authur, Bertha, Cristobal, and Dolly, everyone should pay attention.

Experts say caution is encouraged as even in the quietest of hurricane seasons, a destructive storm can strike anywhere and at any time. The most poignant example was in 1992 when there were only seven named storms. It is the year that Hurricane Andrew hit South Florida with Category 5 winds (165 mph), causing billions in damage, including in the southern parts of the Diocese of Venice.

The Diocese of Venice is familiar with the destructive force of these storms, such as Hurricanes Helene and Milton (2024), Ian (2022), and Irma (2017). Other storms of note in recent memory were Hurricane Charley in 2004 and then Hurricanes Katrina and Wilma in 2005.

A detailed Diocesan Disaster Response Plan is in place for all Parishes, Catholic schools and other Diocesan entities. This plan includes preparation and response to disasters.

Preparedness

To best prepare for a storm, having an emergency plan is crucial. Simple things people need to know or do, include: knowing what evacuation zone you live in; having more than one evacuation route; having key documents ready in a waterproof container; knowing where the nearest emergency evacuation shelter is; and having a disaster supply kit with essentials, including enough food and water for a minimum of three to seven days. For a list of the essentials for a disaster supply kit, please visit www.floridadisaster.org/supplykit.htm.

To help encourage the citizens of the Florida to buy their emergency supplies now, the State of Florida has made permanent the tax-free “holiday” on emergency disaster supplies throughout the year. This means many key supplies are tax free, including: batteries, flashlights, generators and much more. All can be purchased at anytime ahead of the storm, tax free. If you have a Disaster Supply Kit that went unused in 2025, go through it to ensure all items are fresh and the batteries are still good.

Anyone who has a medical or transportation issue and may need assistance evacuating, such as the elderly or handicapped, must contact their county emergency management office to register for evacuation help, or call 511 for assistance. This system is usually updated each year so registering in the past will not guarantee being on a list for 2026.

Another key action is to make sure insurance is up-to-date, and photographs are taken of all valuables before the storm. Keep in mind that hurricane and flood insurance can take up to 30 days to go into effect, meaning buying insurance now will mean it could take until July, a month into the season, before the policy can be used.

Lastly, should you decided to evacuate, it is recommended to have multiple routes planned because, as many learned ahead of Irma, traffic will be a problem. This could mean leaving early or simply not going as far, but it is important to plan ahead on where you are going ahead of time. Officials discourage traveling out of state to avoid a hurricane but recommend going to the home of a friend/family member who lives out of the path of predicted storm surge and the most dangerous winds, and then only if you are ordered to evacuate or do not feel your home is safe enough.

By knowing what actions to take before the hurricane season begins, when a hurricane approaches and when the storm is in your area, as well as what to do after a hurricane leaves your area, you can minimize potential impact, and increase your chances of survival.

The following is a list of websites where you can learn more information about how you can be better prepared in the event disaster strikes.

National Hurricane Center: http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/prepare/ready.php

Federal Emergency Management Agency: http://www.ready.gov/hurricanes

Florida Division of Emergency Management: http://www.floridadisaster.org/dempublic.asp

2026 Totus Tuus summer program to be offered at 20 Parishes

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The successful Totus Tuus Parish summer catechetical camps will soon be taking place near you.

The final week of May saw 16 missionaries undergo intensive training and preparation as the first two Parish camps start May 31, 2026. Ultimately, there will be seven separate weeks of camp with a total of 20 Parishes serving as weekly hosts through July 24. More than 1,000 children and teens will be impacted by this special outreach.

 Totus Tuus – which means “totally yours” – is a one-week Parish Catechetical summer day camp program, for students entering grades 1-12, and aims to inspire young people to long for holiness, develop a deep desire for conversion and personally renew their faith with a stronger prayer life.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane encouraged the pilot program be brought to the Diocese in 2022 to great success, with expansions in 2023 to 11 host Parishes, 12 for 2024, 18 for 2025 and now 20 for 2026. During past visits to Totus Tuus camps, Bishop Dewane has been impressed by the response each child had to the uplifting program. “In each classroom everyone was so excited and alive about their love of the Lord!”

Bishop Dewane celebrated Mass for the Totus Tuus missionaries on May 27, while they were training at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice. The Bishop thanked the missionaries for their service in the Diocese and encouraged them to call upon the Holy Spirit to guide them through the summer and reminded them of the important role they will have for the boys and girls they encounter this summer.

This training focused on the spiritual aspect of the Totus Tuus program, including daily prayer, Eucharistic Adoration, and the Mass. Other components of the training covered the fundamentals of teaching young children and youth, as well as the fun aspects of the camp including the songs and dances that the campers will learn.

The week-long camps are divided into two segments, with the day camp for students entering grades 1 – 6, and an evening camp for middle school and high school students entering grades 7 – 12.

The younger children participate in several classes each day, attend daily Mass, learn the parts and liturgical music of Mass, and participate in games, skits, songs, recess and prayer. The older students participate in instruction, small group discussions, quiet meditations, prayer and fellowship.

Most importantly, Totus Tuus works to complement what parents teach their children in matters of their faith. This is something Bishop Dewane has stressed since the program had its trial run in the Diocese in 2022.

The 2026 Totus Tuus Summer Program schedule is as follows:

May 31 – June 5 – St. Frances Cabrini Parish, Parrish and St. Finbarr Parish, Naples;
June 7-12 – Epiphany Cathedral, Venice, St. Paul Parish, Arcadia, and Ave Maria Parish, Ave Maria;
June 14-19 – St. Agnes Parish, Naples, San Pedro Parish, North Port, St. Michael Parish, Wauchula, and St. Leo the Great Parish, Bonita Springs;
June 21-26 – St. Katharine Drexel Parish, Cape Coral, and Sacred Heart Parish, Bradenton;

July 5-10 – 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 12-17 – St. Joseph Parish, Bradenton, and Our Lady of Light Parish (Day Session)/ St. John XXIII Parish, Fort Myers (Evening Session);
July 19-24 – Our Lady of the Angels Parish, Lakewood Ranch, and St. Jude Parish, Sarasota. 

Please pray for the success of the Totus Tuus summer program, the campers, and the missionaries.

Camp registration information

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.

2026 Mooney seniors graduate

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School held its commencement exercises for 174 graduating seniors on May 22, 2026, at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Center on the Sarasota bayfront.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated the Baccalaureate Mass for the graduating class on May 20, 2025, at Incarnation Parish in Sarasota. Bishop Dewane thanked the parents for entrusting Cardinal Mooney with the education of their children. He also praised the graduates for their academic achievement, adding that his prayers were for their continued spiritual growth as they leave the Cardinal Mooney community to points beyond.

The Cardinal Mooney graduating seniors performed approximately 22,000 community service hours, and 94 percent are going directly to college. They earned nearly $13 million in scholarship offers, a number that does not yet include Florida Bright Future Scholarships. Several dozen will be attending Catholic universities, and one will attend the U.S. Military Academy. Other graduates will serve in the military, work or have a gap year.

During graduation the Cardinal Mooney Outstanding Senior Award was presented by Principal Ben Hopper to both Lucia Maria del Valle and Mason Dean Jordan. These two students were selected because they demonstrate the school’s ideals of religious and moral responsibility, personal and social responsibility, intellectual achievement, and a sense of purpose and direction, among other desirable traits and qualities. Their pictures and distinct honor will be placed in the school lobby.

Duke Bergstrom was the class Valedictorian and Gabriel Mehlum was Salutatorian. Father Alex Pince, Cardinal Mooney Chaplain, offered the invocation, while Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocesan Superintendent of Catholic Education, offered the Final Blessing.

 

 

News Briefs for the week of May 29, 2026

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Parish group participates in opening of National Eucharistic Pilgrimage

Pilgrims from St. Michael Parish in Wauchula traveled on May 24, 2026, to St. Augustine to join the beginning of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage for the 250th Anniversary of the United States, and the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The pilgrims attended the opening Mass at the location of the First Mass on American soil in 1565. A group later reenacted the story of many priests and laypeople who died for their faith as Martyrs in the 1700s in La Florida. The day ended with a Eucharistic Procession, Jesus truly present in the Blessed Sacrament, through the streets of St. Augustine to the Cathedral. The Eucharistic Pilgrims will travel through all 13 colonies in the next six weeks, concluding in Philadelphia on 4th of July where the Declaration of Independence was signed 250 years ago in 1776.

Women religious from St. John Neumann reunite

The weekend of May 22-25, 2026, Salesian Sisters from across the country gathered in New Jersey to meet with Sister Ruth del Pilar Mora, FMA, a prominent leader and the General Councilor for the Missions of the Daughters of Mary, Help of Christians. Among those in attendance were several beloved St. John Neumann Catholic High School Alumni Sisters who faithfully served at St. John Neumann during the past 15 years. It was a joyful moment as they reunited for a special photo, reconnecting with one another and reflecting on the many lives they have touched through their ministry at Neumann. Thank you, Sisters, for your service, faith, and the love you continue to share with the Neumann family!

 Students take part in final Rosary Walk of school year

Seventh graders at St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral took part in the final Rosary Walk of the school year on May 22, 2026. The Rosary Walk is situated next to the Parish church and offers the opportunity for students to pray in a peaceful setting. St. Andrew Catholic School is blessed to continue its mission of Building Faith, Hearts and Minds.

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.

 Worldwide Marriage Encounter in Tampa June 5-7

Successful marriages don’t work on automatic pilot. Like a garden, these unions require constant attention: fertilizing, watering, and weeding. Join the Worldwide Marriage Encounter and discover God’s plan for joy, romance and passion in your marriage June 5-7, 2026, at the Franciscan Center in Tampa. This is the closest Worldwide Marriage Encounter to the Diocese of Venice in 2026.  Apply today at www.wwme.org or call 813-270-7832.

Rummage Sale in Punta Gorda June 6

The Sacred Heart Conference of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul is hosting its next Rummage Sale 8 a.m.-11 a.m., June 6, 2026, at 25200 Airport Road, Punta Gorda. Items available for purchase will include household items, furniture, linens, clothing, shoes, purses, jewelry, books and toys. Proceeds will go toward the Society’s continuing efforts to raise money to assist those in need in the community. For more information, please call 941-575-0767.

Adult Education Workshop in Naples June 10

Community Pregnancy Clinics will offer its monthly Created for Greatness Adult Education Series at 6:30 p.m., June 10, 2026, at the Naples Clinic, 661 Goodlette-Frank Road. The June topic is “Stories of Grace: An Evening of Adoption Testimonies.” Whether you are curious, considering adoption, or simply open-hearted, you are welcome to come hear the powerful true stories of families whose lives have been transformed through the gift of adoption. All are welcome! Please invite your friends and neighbors! RSVP at Created for Greatness – Stories of Grace: An Evening of Adoption Testimonies.

Inter-Parish “Life in the Spirit” seminar in Naples June 13

St. William Parish, 750 Seagate Drive, Naples, is hosting an Inter-Parish “Life in the Spirit” seminar, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m., June 13, 2026, in the Blessed Mother Center. The seminar will be facilitated by representatives from St. William, St. Agnes, St. Ann and St. John the Evangelist Parishes. The seminar will include talks, discussion groups, and a prayer service for a greater outpouring of the Holy Spirit in one’s personal life. There will be music, fellowship and a light lunch is included. RSVP by email and include your name and contact number to Susan Westly at susan@saintwilliam.org. Please include “Life in the Spirit Seminar” in the subject line. For additional details call 239-397-5757.

Theology on Tap June 18 in University Park

Calling all young adults! Join Catholic young people from across the Diocese for an evening of fellowship, faith and fun! Theology on Tap meets on the third Thursday of every month and is an opportunity for young adults in their 20’s and 30’s to explore faith topics in a relaxed social setting. The next gathering of Theology on Tap is 7 – 9 p.m., June 18, 2026, at Oak & Stone, 5405 University Parkway, University Park. The featured speaker is Chris Root, CEO of Catholic Charities, who will be leading a talk called, “Encountering Christ Through Service to Others.” There is no cost to attend, and no registration required. Bring a friend. For more information, contact Andres Prias at 941-441-1122 or prias@dioceseofvenice.org.

Catholic Classical education Conference June 19-21 in Fort Myers

The 3rd annual AMICE Conference hosted by Donahue Academy of Ave Maria will take place June 19-21, 2026, at Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers. The conference offers an excellent opportunity for teachers, staff, administrators and parents to learn more about classical education. This year’s theme “The Great Conversation: The contributions of the Great Books in a Catholic Classical Education,” will be presented by outstanding educators who have years of experience in the Classical Educational model. Keynote speakers: Dr. Andrew Zwerneman, Dr. Dan Guernsey and Dr. Denise Donohue, will start the discussion followed by 12 additional breakout speakers who will add their insights to the three-day event. The AMICE conference aims to bring together all who are exploring or deepening their knowledge of Catholic classical education, particularly in the Diocese of Venice, to offer a bold response to the Church’s call for the renewal of Catholic education in the modern world. Please sign up in advance by going to the conference at https://giving.parishsoft.com/App/Form/bc65a052-b716-4a2d-a526-53ee20dae8a4, The cost is $129 per person, which includes meals. There is a group rate of $89 per person if your school or organization registers at least five participants. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to Donahue Academy’s Advancement Director Wil Hampton at wil.hampton@donahueacademy.org, or Assistant Director Jana Patterson at jana.patterson@donahueacademy.org.

Day of Reflection Marriage Retreat June 20

A Day of Reflection Marriage Retreat is scheduled for June 20, 2026, at St. John the Evangelist Parish in Naples. The retreat offers a specially prepared volunteer team who will share their experiences and information, enabling couples to be more aware of the privileges and responsibilities of marriage. Register at https://dioceseofvenice.regfox.com/2026-day-of-reflection-mp-retreat. Please contact Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseofvenice.org, or 941-486-4754.

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, 2026, by calling 941-486-0233.

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.

BEWARE OF TEXT AND EMAIL SCAMS

It has been brought to the attention of the Diocese that parishioners have received text/email messages from people pretending to be clergy – including Bishop Frank J. Dewane – or Parish/school staff, requesting donations in the form of gift cards and/or wire transfers. These messages often come from text/emails that look similar to official Diocesan/Parish/school numbers or accounts and often greet the recipient by name and have the priest’s, Bishop’s, or staff member’s name in the “From” line and/or closing signature of the message. The fake message often claims that the priest/Bishop/staff member is in need of gift cards or money to aid a sick child, relative, or parishioner. THIS IS A SCAM!  It is Diocesan policy that neither the Bishop, nor priests or staff request donations in the form of gift cards, PayPal, MoneyGram, etc.  There is an established process in place on how parishioners can make donations and participate in the life of the Diocese, Parish, or school. If you receive such a text or email, please immediately contact the Diocesan/Parish/school directly!

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.

The Diocese of Venice receives Its Third Shepherd: Bishop-elect Biosca visits the Diocese for the first time

Posted on by Bob Reddy

On May 13, Pope Leo XIV accepted the resignation of Bishop Frank J. Dewane, who will retire, and appointed Bishop–elect Emilio Biosca Agüero, OFM Cap., as the third Shepherd of the Diocese of Venice in Florida. Bishop-elect Biosca, a member of the Capuchin Franciscan Friars of the Province of Saint Augustine in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, since 2019 has served as Pastor of the Shrine of the Sacred Heart in Washington, D.C.

Following the announcement of the Pope’s appointment from the Nuncio, the Vatican representative in the United States, the historic announcement was shared by the Diocese of Venice later that morning at a press conference in the Diocesan Catholic Center in Venice. Both Bishops spoke to the press, and answered questions, with Bishop Dewane already giving high praise to the Bishop-elect.

“Bishop-elect is enthusiastic, with a strong pastoral spirit and particular devotion to the Virgin Mary and to serving the People of God.  With all of you, I welcome him to our Diocesan family, which will be greatly blessed by his ministry, and I very much look forward to getting to know him as in just a few days he has shown himself to be a deeply spiritual and exceptional priest,” Bishop Dewane said.

Bishop-elect Biosca arrived in the Diocese a day earlier, on May 12, and subsequently took part in a series of meetings with Bishop Dewane and Dr. Volodymyr Smeryk, Diocesan Chancellor. These meetings were to assist Bishop-elect Biosca in preparing for the public announcement as well as orienting him with the inner workings of the Diocese which includes 61 Parishes, 15 Diocesan Catholic schools, and serves 250,000-plus Catholics in 10 counties.

The day of the announcement, Bishop Dewane brought Bishop-elect Biosca to the Catholic Center, where Diocesan staff awaited his arrival. The staff warmly welcomed both, with Bishop Dewane telling Bishop-elect Biosca that he is inheriting great group of people. “The building might be small but there is a ton of talent inside.”

Among the first things that took place, before the press conference, was a Mass for Catholic Center staff in the Chapel, celebrated by Bishop Dewane, with the Bishop-elect and Rev. John Belmonte, S.J., concelebrating. At the conclusion, Bishop-elect Biosca spoke to the staff, expressing how thrilled he was to be in the Diocese, He noted his last visit to the region was in 2003 during a family reunion on Siesta Key. He also shared about his background, including his experiences first as a missionary in Papau New Guinea and then in Cuba, before being assigned to the Shrine of the Sacred Heart in Washington.

Bishop-elect Biosca offered words of encouragement to the staff, telling them it is they, at the Diocesan level, who help spread evangelization throughout the Diocese. “You are very important to the work, strength and vitality of the Parishes, because priests come and go, but it is the lay people who have a tremendous effect on the strength of the Diocese.” The Bishop-elect said he would get a list of the staff names and their assignments and would pray for each. “We know how powerful prayer is. What you do is a big responsibility and I thank you.” He also received a list of all priest and religious in the Diocese to add to his prayer list.

While in the Diocese for only a few days, Bishop-elect Biosca had the opportunity to meet numerous Diocesan priests, and to visit Epiphany Cathedral, which is currently in the middle of a major reconstruction, as well as St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers, where the ordination and installation will take place. In addition, he was able to see several Diocesan senior housing sites, an important outreach for the Diocese.

On May 14, the day after the announcement of his appointment, Bishop-elect Biosca toured Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice. During the visit he had the opportunity to meet with the Director, Father Greg Cleveland, OMV, the business manager, as well as several other staff and volunteers having brief encounters which was very exciting for all.

During the tour, the Bishop-elect visited the Conference Center, main offices, dining hall and kitchen, the Blessed Virgin Mary Monument, St. Joseph Chapel, and one of the villas, each of which was rehabilitated following severe flooding in 2022 during Hurricane Ian.

While visiting the Chapel, Bishop-elect Biosca took a few minutes to pray. He also took great interest in various religious items, including the Chapel crucifix, the image of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, the statue of St. Joseph and others, taking several pictures to use as reference later.

By chance, a retreat for fifth grade students from St. Martha Catholic School and St. Mary Academy in Sarasota was taking place at the time of the Bishop-elect’s visit. In the Conference Center Bishop-elect Biosca greeted the students and then shared personal details about his life, including a memorable retreat he attended as teen. The property, operated by missionaries from Belgium, was so beautiful that he asked to return to assist in raking the leaves just so that he could be at such a special place.

Bishop-elect Biosca told the students about his missionary work, saying that it had been a dream of his to do such work for the Capuchin Order, but admitted he would have been just as happy assigned to a Parish. When going off to do missionary work, he explained how he made a conscious decision to completely immerse himself in the culture and history of the area, and would learn the language. “I thought, ‘Let me go to this place and only think about this place.’ So, when I arrived, I only worried about the place, the people there, and the Church. I could have stayed there forever.”

This experience served him well as he said it allowed him to learn about the people who had only had first contact with the outside world a few short decades before his arrival in 1994. To the fascination of the students, he added that he learned from them how to make a fire with just bamboo and grass.

Bishop-elect Biosca said he did the same immersion process to his next missionary assignment in Cuba, where his parents are from, which was a different set of circumstances because the country is Communist-run and persecute those who openly practice their faith.

The students asked several questions of Bishop-elect Biosca, mostly focused on whether he always wanted to be a Bishop or why, “I always wanted to be a priest. Bishop is something that was not in my plans, but God has his own plans.”

He explained that his first interest in becoming a priest started when he was preparing for First Holy Communion in second grade. “I thought, ‘Wow! I think I’d like to be a priest. It faded a bit in early high school and thought maybe I’d get married and have a family but later I seriously started thinking about the priesthood.”

Bishop-elect Biosca concluded his visit with the students by offering a blessing for them, their family, their friends and their teachers, reminding them that by their actions they may have a special relationship with the Lord. He concluded, “May the Almighty God bless you through the intercession of the Immaculate Virgin Mary, St. Joseph and all the saints.”

Although only in the Diocese for a few days, Bishop-elect Biosca was able to meet a variety of people from across the region and his interactions with them reflected his humble and reflective nature. He was excited to learn about the growth of the region and possibilities for evangelization of people of all ages and backgrounds.

Admittedly still in a state of wonder and amazement at his appointment and the confidence Pope Leo has placed in him, Bishop-elect Biosca asked many he met to pray for him, “that I may serve faithfully and joyfully as a shepherd after the Heart of Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd.”

In the weeks leading to his ordination as Bishop and installation, Bishop-elect Biosca will be returning to the Diocese of Venice on several occasions for additional meetings to ensure the transition from Bishop Dewane to Bishop-elect Biosca goes smoothly.

To learn more about Bishop-elect Emilio Biosca Agüero, OFM Cap., including a biography and other information related to the May 13 announcement of his appointment, please visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/bishop-elect/.

Cathedral’s new church bells blessed

Posted on by Bob Reddy

To the cheers of the faithful, Bishop Frank J. Dewane presided over the Blessing of the Bells at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice on May 16, 2026.

Bishop Dewane was joined by the clergy and more than 500 of the faithful of Epiphany Cathedral and the Diocese of Venice for the Blessing of the Bells that will be installed as part of the reconstruction of the Cathedral.

The Mayor of Venice, the Honorable Nick Pachota, was also present for this joyous occasion, as well as Brian Baker, President of Baker Liturgical Art. 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 a 75-foot bell tower and four custom cast bronze 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 unmistakable peal of church bells calls all to the celebration of the liturgy and to prayer,” Bishop Dewane said. “Bells alert us to important events in the life of the Church and the community: Mass, prayer, weddings, funerals. This is a historic moment not only for Epiphany’s Cathedral’s parishioners, but for the entire Diocese, as it marks a significant milestone in the renovation and rejuvenation of the Cathedral of the Diocese of Venice.”

In addition to blessing the bells with holy water, Bishop Dewane also chimed the largest bell with a hammer, the beautiful sound reverberating through the delighted crowd.

For centuries tradition has called for church bells to be not only blessed but also named, as they represent “the voice of God,” calling people to worship. Alternatively, it has been said that church bells represent the voice of the faithful, calling out to God. Naming bells can be traced back to the year 968, when Pope John XIII dedicated a bell to St. John the Baptist.

“Epiphany Cathedral’s new bells have been named in recognition of the Catholic Solemnity of The Epiphany, celebrated on January 6, marking the revelation of Jesus Christ as the Son of God and Savior of the world,” explained Msgr. Patrick Dubois, Rector of Epiphany Cathedral. “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 will be called Melchior, Gaspar, Balthazar and The Star of Bethlehem.”

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. They will be installed in a new 75-foot bell tower at Epiphany Cathedral later this summer.

For many this blessing of the bells showed exciting forward progress in the ongoing reconstruction of Epiphany Cathedral. One woman in attendance at the special ceremony exclaimed that the blessing of the bells was an important milestone for the project which has been in progress for two years. “What a beautiful sound to hear that bell ring. This is very exciting. Next will be the dedication of the new Cathedral. I cannot wait.”

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, throne, cathedra, 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.

Following the blessing, most of those present took the opportunity to join a special tour of the inside of the Cathedral construction site, led by Msgr. Dubois. Many were awed by the new vaulted ceiling and the Italian marble that has been installed on the altar and were encouraged to see how much progress has already been made, all eager for the day the work is completed. Since the reconstruction began, Mass has been held in the Parish Hall, the original Epiphany Parish church.

Some naming opportunities for the bells and other liturgical elements 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.

2026 Graduations held at two Diocesan Catholic high schools

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers and St. John Neumann Catholic High School in Naples held their commencement exercises in mid-May.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated the Baccalaureate Mass for each of the schools, with the St. John Neumann Mass celebrated May 14, 2026, at St. Agnes Parish in Naples, and the Bishop Verot Mass on May 15, at St. Columbkille Parish in Fort Myers.

Bishop Dewane first thanked the parents and guardians for entrusting their children to a Diocesan Catholic high school for four years of their education, acknowledging that they made a personal sacrifice to do so. The Bishop then congratulated the graduates for their own accomplishments, both academically and athletically, but reminded them that he was more interested in how they grew spiritually; that is in developing a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

“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.”

The Neumann commencement exercises included 101 graduates receiving their diplomas, a record for the growing school. The class, which accumulated more than 13,400 service hours, also earned more than $11.5 million in scholarship offers and nearly all are going off to college; one graduate will be attending a military service academy. The Valedictorian was Thomas O’Brien and Salutatorian was Sophia Bosco. The guest speaker was Dr. Victoria Weekly, Associate Director for the Office of Salesian Youth & Young Adult Ministry.

At Bishop Verot commencement was celebrated with 214 graduates. There are no valedictorians or salutatorians recognized during graduation at Verot, however nearly three dozen students graduated Summa Cum Laude. Margaret Swift provided the introductory address, while Ambrielle Calixte offered the commencement address. The class earned more than $16.2 million in scholarship offers and completed more than 21,000 service hours. Two graduates will be attending military service academies.

The Baccalaureate Masses and Commencement Exercises for Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School in Sarasota and Donahue Catholic Academy of Ave Maria Parish in Ave Maria are scheduled for later in May.

Please join the Diocese of Venice in praying for all the new graduates on the road ahead!

 

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