Author: Bob Reddy

Diocese celebrates canonization of two young saints

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The canonizations of Pier Giorgio Frassati and Carlo Acutis on Sept. 7, 2025, in St. Peter’s Square, by Pope Leo XIV, brought great joy to the faithful around the world, including the Diocese of Venice.

Both young men are beloved by many Catholic young people for their enthusiastic pursuit of holiness. Acutis, who died in 2006 at the age of 15, is the first millennial to be beatified by the Catholic Church. He was known for his witness of faith in the digital world and his love for the Eucharist. Frassati, who died in 1925 at the age of 24, was described by St. John Paul II as a “man of the Beatitudes,” and dedicated his life to charitable outreach.

Two Parish events were held in conjunction with the canonizations, while the elevation to sainthood of these two young men was also the focus at Diocesan Catholic schools.

Epiphany Cathedral in Venice hosted an Italian Canonization Party on Sept. 6, the eve of the canonizations, in the Catholic school courtyard and field. Bishop Frank J. Dewane offered the opening blessing for the celebration. The canonization party included pizza, pasta and cannolis, as well as games and live music.

A relic of St. Carlo Acutis, obtained by the Cathedral in 2024, was placed on display in the school’s Santa Maria Chapel, available for the faithful to spend time in quiet prayer. In addition, portions of the Eucharistic Miracles of the World exhibit were on display. The exhibit, with 170 total panels, includes a visual story of different Eucharistic Miracles from across the globe. St. Carlo Acutis, a gamer and computer coder, researched and catalogued the miracles onto a website before he died.

On Sept. 7, St. Patrick Parish hosted a display of “God’s Army: 25 Saints Under 25,” in the Parish Hall after all Masses.  Each panel had an image of a young saint, information about his/her life, and a prayer that participants could say to the saint as they viewed each panel.

Kneelers were available for the displays for the two newest saints. A recording of the canonization Mass from the Vatican was played in the background as the faithful went from panel to panel. Prayer cards and informational sheets about the two newest saints were also distributed.

At St. Patrick’s, a third-class relic of St. Pier Georgio Frassati was present. The relic, part of the shroud which covered the saint’s coffin, was made available thanks to Deacon Greg and Caroline Fewer, who have a strong devotion for St. Frassati. “He is an inspiration to us and so many,” Deacon Fewer said.

At St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral, students learned about St. Carlo Acutis, on Sept. 8. Fifth grade students created a coloring book highlighting his life, love for the Eucharist, and devotion to sharing the faith.

In his homily, Pope Leo said Sts. Carlo and Pier Giorgio understood that friendship with Jesus and faithfully following “God’s plans” is greater than any other worldly pursuits.

“Dear friends, Sts. Pier Giorgio Frassati and Carlo Acutis are an invitation to all of us, especially young people, not to squander our lives but to direct them upwards and make them masterpieces,” Pope Leo said.

Describing their “winning formula” for holiness, the Holy Father spoke about the ordinary circumstances through which they dedicated their lives to God.

According to the Holy Father, the two Italian saints cultivated their love for God and for their brothers and sisters through “simple acts” of “daily Mass, prayer, and especially Eucharistic adoration,” which are available to every Catholic.

The Feast Day for St. Carlo Acutis is Oct. 12, while the Feast Day for St. Pier Giorgio Frassati is July 4.

Carlo Acutis Movie Now Streaming: Watch!

Learn more about St. Carlo Acutis by streaming “Carlo Acutis, Roadmap to Reality.” This moving documentary not only tells the story of Carlo’s life and his remarkable gifts but also paints a vivid picture of spirituality in the digital age and the profound impact his witness has on young people. The National Eucharistic Revival is offering a 20 percent discount for the rental with the code REVIVAL20 for a limited time. Visit https://watchcredo.com/ to stream the film.

Faithful from Diocese send Pope Leo birthday wishes

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The Diocese of Venice is participating as a group in a worldwide effort to generate an outpouring of prayer for Pope Leo XIV on the occasion of his milestone 70th birthday, and his first birthday as Pope, celebrated Sept. 14, 2025.

OSV News has partnered with the US Conference of Catholic Bishops, the Pontifical Mission Societies, Relevant Radio and others to create a spiritual birthday bouquet for the Holy Father. The Spiritual Bouquet, called “Pizza and Prayer,” is made up of a variety of prayer options from a full novena, to a Holy Hour, to a rosary.

“Each prayer effort will be noted, collated, and sent to the Holy Father,” explained Karen Barry Schwarz, Diocesan Communications Director. “The Diocese will be submitting offers as a group, and we’d love for everyone to be a part of it!”

To have your prayer offerings included, please submit your prayers by 5 p.m., Friday, Sept. 12, at https://dioceseofvenice.org/spiritual-bouquet-for-pope-leo/.

As for the pizza part of the “Pizza and Prayer,” the faithful are encouraged to pray together and then grab a slice of pizza in honor of one of Pope Leo’s favorite treats.

Through Sept. 11, more than 380 had already submitted their intention to pray for Pope Leo. Several Diocese of Venice Catholic School classrooms also submitted their intentions to participate, with the St. Mary Academy in Sarasota noting that the middle school classes are excited to offer a Divine Mercy Chaplet.

The following are a few of the comments shared with the prayer intentions:

  • “Happy Birthday Pope Leo! I feel honored and blessed that we share the same birthday!”
  • “Happy Birthday Pope Leo XIV! Our family hopes you have a very special and happy day as you turn 70. Many blessings and a prayer for good health as you guide our church in the years to come. We will have pizza in your honor. God Bless!”
  • “You are in my thoughts and prayers. I know you carry a heavy burden. I pray that Our Lord and Our Mother Mary may lighten your load. Thank you for your “yes” to be our Holy Father. I love you and you’re doing a great job. May you be blessed in all that you do.”

Blessed! More help for mothers in Fort Myers

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Community Pregnancy Clinics (CPCI) has a new Fort Myers clinic which offers a centralized location to provide life-affirming solutions for women who are pregnant.

The new clinic, at 9281 College Parkway, was blessed by Bishop Frank J. Dewane during a prayer service on Sept. 8, 2025, the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

“Let us ask for God’s blessing on all those who will be clients here and those who devote themselves to their care and let us ask for a Divine blessing upon this building, dedicated to the affirmation of life,” Bishop Dewane said.

Following the prayer service, Bishop Dewane, accompanied by Deacon Gary Ingold, past-CEO of CPCI, went to each room of the clinic with Holy Water to bless the building and its mission.

Scott Baier, CEO Community Pregnancy Clinics, said the day of the blessing intentionally fell on the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The new location, near the Cape Coral bridge, is in “The Heart of Lee County,” ideal for reaching women in need.

“Thanks to the generosity of Bishop Dewane and from our supporters, we are able to provide all services free of charge, ensuring that no woman ever feels like abortion is her only option because of financial pressure or lack of support,” Baier said.

CPCI reports that in 2024, 1,381 babies were saved from abortion in Florida at its clinics in Fort Myers, Naples, Sarasota, and Gainesville. CPCI offers the following: pregnancy testing and ultrasounds; Abortion Pill Reversal (APR); STI testing & treatment; material support; parenting education & mentorship; community referrals & emotional support.

Present for the ceremony were various CPCI board members, and other supporters, including several members of the Knights of Columbus from St. Cecilia Parish in Fort Myers.

If you would like to learn more about Community Pregnancy Clinics, or support their mission, please visit. https://supportcpci.com/.

Diocese to host fifth annual marriage enrichment conference on Oct. 18

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The Diocese of Venice celebrates the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony and the vocation of marriage, and recognizes the need to accompany those who chose this path.

The Diocese offers supportive preparation courses, inspiring conferences, and celebrations of the longevity of married couples with annual anniversary Masses. The importance of forming and accompanying all married couples, from newlyweds to empty nesters, to live out their vocation in holiness and joy is a priority. As St. John Paul II famously said, “As goes the family, so goes the nation, and so goes the entire world in which we live.” It is of crucial importance that families in the Church are empowered to their sacred covenant.

To promote greater formation for couples, Bishop Frank J. Dewane and the Diocesan Office of Marriage and Family Life are working in collaboration with the St. John Paul II Foundation to present the Diocese’s 5th Annual “Together in Holiness” Marriage Enrichment Conference, Oct. 18, 2025. This year’s Conference is at Our Lady of Light Parish, 19680 Cypress View Drive, Fort Myers, and the theme is “Family, a School of Love.”

In a video message encouraging Catholic married and engaged couples to attend this important Conference, Bishop Dewane said the day is a way to celebrate the essential and beautiful vocation of marriage together with God.

“The Marriage Conference is a great opportunity to spend quality time with your spouse, or fiancé, and to put into practice the Lord’s call to build up His Kingdom through your marriage,” Bishop Dewane said. “Hear from marriage and family experts as they share testimony on how to navigate the world together, as a couple, with the Catholic Faith as your foundation. Through prayer and reflection, with other Catholic couples, draw closer to each other, and to God. Allow the Lord to bestow upon you the graces needed to live out the Catholic Faith through your marriage, and your family. Know that your commitment to one another represents hope for the future of the Church. As you grow in love, embracing your vocations as husbands and wives, as parents, our Church flourishes. I hope to see you there!”

Bishop Dewane will celebrate the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass at the opening of the Conference (9 a.m.). This will include a special marriage blessing from the Bishop for all couples present.

Registration is now open for the day-long event (9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.), which includes inspirational talks by Catholic speakers Dr. Ryan Hanning, and Deacon Jason and Rachel Bulman, as well as Father David Portorreal, Administrator at St. Peter the Apostle Parish in Naples.

The “Together in Holiness” Conference made its Diocese of Venice debut in 2021, and the event has grown each year with more than 100 couples attending in 2024. The Conference has received rave reviews from participants who remark not only how wonderful the speakers are but also the supportive atmosphere the entire day offers.

A couple from Fort Myers said after the 2024 Conference: “We are in a transition in our marriage and this day really helped us renew our focus on being a Christ-centered family. We know we are the examples for our children, We want to make sure we are the best examples we can be.”

Early bird registration is $64 for couples before Sept. 15. Childcare is available. To learn more, and to register, visit www.togetherinholiness.org/venice. Questions? Contact Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseovenice.org, or 941-486-4754.

Pregnancy resource network leaders meet

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Every year directors and staff of local pregnancy help centers, maternity homes and after-birth homes come together for a day to share and learn from one another.

The latest gathering, Heartbeat 2.0 Retreat, took place on Sept. 5, 2025, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice, and covered a wide variety of topics.

The retreat, hosted by the Diocese of Venice, included a presentation by Sara Johnson, from Florida Voters Against Extremism, on the ongoing fight to seek an end to abortion in Florida.

Johnson provided an update on the political landscape of Florida and the United States in the wake of the major 2024 ballot initiative. While Amendment 4, a proposed extreme amendment which would have catastrophically expanded access to abortion in Florida, went down to defeat, Johnson warned that the sentiments on abortion in Florida make the state vulnerable to more attempts to change the laws.

“The numbers are clear, 63% of Floridians think abortion should be legal,” Johnson said. “That is a huge number and makes Florida vulnerable. However, most Floridians think the Heartbeat Protection Act, the current law which prevents abortion after six weeks of gestation, with six exceptions, is reasonable and restrictive enough.”

While the Florida law does not eliminate access to abortion, it is a big step, Johnson stressed. The support behind expanding abortion access dumped $120 million into the Amendment 4 campaign and more money is being raised for ballot amendments in the coming election cycles, if not in 2026, but perhaps 2027 and more likely in 2028.

“It is a coordinated attack to enshrine this agenda of death,” Johnson said. “None of us believe abortion should be legislated or exist at all. Now is the opportunity to educate what it is we are trying to accomplish, that is saving the unborn.”

Pam Stenzel, from BrightCourse and Community Pregnancy Clinics, said the Florida law has many flaws and the perception of it has changed the way girls/women are approaching their decision to choose life or not.

“There is a 24-hour waiting period for getting an abortion, and that is the only time we have to connect with these girls,” Stenzel said. “If she calls one of the pregnancy resources centers (in the Diocese), someone has to be available to answer that inquiry within 15 minutes to answer the immediate need, or else she is gone.”

This reality exists because there is ready access to a chemical abortion through a pill prescription, which is not as regulated as a surgical abortion which takes place in a facility.

Stenzel spoke about a service that is available through Infinite Worth that links pregnancy resource centers to a nationwide response network which offers services through online or phone calls 24/7.

The final speaker was Karin Barbito from Support After Abortion. Because the majority of women and men who have experienced abortion want healing but don’t know where to go for help, Support After Abortion offers compassion and support for all of those impacted by abortion.

Barbito also spoke about Project Rachel, which offers retreats for women who have had an abortion, as well as Walking with Moms in Need, a U.S. Bishop’s program which operates at the Parish level, to increase support for pregnant and parenting mothers in need. It works to ensure that any woman who finds herself unexpectedly pregnant, or parenting in difficult circumstances, can turn to her local Catholic Church and be connected with the resources she needs.

For a list of the Pregnancy Resource Centers who support Walking with Moms in Need, please visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/pregnancyhelp/.

If you have any questions about Respect Life activities in the Diocese of Venice, or would like to get involved, contact Tavia Ames at 941-484-9543 or ames@dioceseofvenice.org.

News Briefs for September 12, 2025

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Bishop celebrates Mass for three schools

Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated Mass for students at three Diocese of Venice Catholic Schools in early September. The first Mass was Sept. 4, 2025, for Incarnation Catholic School in Sarasota. Next was for Donahue Academy of Ave Maria Catholic School in Ave Maria on Sept. 8. Lastly was at St. John Neumann Catholic High School in Naples on Sept. 10. Bishop Dewane encouraged the students to improve their prayer life as a way to grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ. Following Mass for the elementary/middle schools, the Bishop spoke with the eighth graders, encouraging them to be the leaders of their school. The eighth graders were also given the opportunity to ask the Bishop questions. At the conclusion, a photo was taken with the Bishop and the group.

Newly ordained priest visits Sarasota school

On Sept. 3, 2025, newly ordained Father Patrick Long visited St. Martha Catholic School in Sarasota, which he attended. Father Long, who is Parochial Vicar at Our Lady of the Angels Parish in Lakewood Ranch, was ordained by Bishop Frank J. Dewane on July 12, 2025. During his visit Father Long took time to visit with the students and answer each of their questions.

 Students celebrate Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Fourth grade students at St. Francis Xavier Catholic School in Fort Myers celebrated the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary on Sept. 8, 2025, by creating birthday cards, with some students writing prayers for Mary.

Weekly praying of rosary bonds Catholic school community

Each week, the St. Mary Academy School community gathers in the school Chapel in Sarasota to pray the Rosary together. This is a beautiful time of reflection, unity, and devotion to our Blessed Mother. Through this shared tradition, the students grow in faith, find peace in prayer, and strengthen their bond as a community rooted in Christ. The most recent gathering took place on Sept. 5, 2025.

Death Penalty Prayer Vigil Sept. 17 in North Port

A prayer vigil to pray for the end of the death penalty in Florida will take place 5:30 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025, at San Pedro Parish, 14380 Tamiami Trail, North Port, in the Chapel. The vigil will coincide with the scheduled execution of David Joseph Pittman, who is set to become the 12th person executed in Florida this year, an unfortunate record number for the state. The vigil lasts less than an hour and includes hymns, a Gospel reading, reflections, intercessions, and a praying of the Rosary. A pause will take place at 6 p.m., the time Florida executions take place. All are welcome and encouraged to attend.

Youth Jubilee Adoration Night in Sebring on Sept. 26

All youth are invited to St. Catherine Parish, 820 Hickory Street, Sebring, from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., Friday, Sept. 26, 2025, for the Youth Jubilee Adoration Night. Experience an evening of prayer, music, and Eucharistic Adoration as part of the Jubilee 2025 celebrations. For more information, contact Andres Prias at 941-441-1122, or prias@dioceseofvenice.org.

Abortion Healing Retreat being offered in October 

If you know someone struggling because of a past abortion, please encourage them to make the call that can provide them with relief, and peace. Project Rachel is the outreach of the Catholic Church to those who are suffering from a past abortion. Project Rachel will host a confidential, private retreat for abortion healing in the Diocese of Venice in October. For information, or to join, call or text in English or Espanol, 941-412-5860. All communication is kept confidential.

Sidewalk Advocate training available in September and October

Be A Hero, Save A Life! Learn the peaceful, prayerful method of sidewalk counseling from Sidewalk Advocates for Life and help women and men entering abortion facilities choose life! Upcoming training sessions include: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025, Ave Maria University, 5088 Ave Maria Blvd., Ave Maria, or 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 8, St. John XXIII Parish, 13060 Palomino Lane, Fort Myers. The training is free of charge. Lunch and workbooks will be provided. If you would like to learn this method or learn more about this life-saving ministry, please contact Cyrille Velasco at cyrillevelasco@gmail.com or Bob Reynolds at rgrcons1@gmail.com. Please RSVP at least 10 days in advance of each training date. If you are unable to attend these in-person sessions, online training is also available. More information at sidewalkadvocates.org.

Celebrate Priesthood Sunday, by supporting our seminarians

The faithful are being asked to support, encourage and educate future priests through the Venice Diocesan Council of Catholic Women Seminarian Fund. The Diocese is currently educating 16 men at various seminaries, and a donation of any amount would be a great help. The way the VDCCW supports seminarians is through celebrating Priesthood Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025. To do this in a special and lasting way, the VDCCW will facilitate sending an “In Honor of” card to your Parish Priest. This is a gift that keeps on giving as all proceeds support the VDCCW Seminarian Fund (The donation amount will not be revealed to the recipient). To take part, please send the name of the priest you would like to honor, along with your donation, made out to VDCCW Seminarian Fund (plus $1 to cover postage and printing) to: Cornelia Zanetti, Seminarian Fund Guardian, 5808 Gulf Drive, #204, Holmes Beach, FL 34217.

40 Days for Life Fall Campaign

Join the 40 Days for Life 2025 campaign this fall from Sept. 24 to Nov. 2, 2025. This campaign, scheduled for locations in Sarasota, Fort Myers and Naples, aims to end abortion through prayer and fasting, community outreach, and peaceful vigil in front of abortion facilities. For more information, please visit https://www.40daysforlife.com/en/, or contact Tavia Ames at ames@dioceseofvenice.org or call 941-441-1101.

  • 40 Days for Life kickoff events – each will include guest speakers and takes place next to a Planned Parenthood, the largest abortionist in the country:
  • Naples – 10 a.m., Sept. 24, outside Planned Parenthood, 1425 Creech Road. Contact Ricki Giersch at 630-514-2058, or email rickigiersch61@gmail.com
  • Fort Myers – 6 p.m., Sept. 24, outside Planned Parenthood, 6418 Commerce Park Drive. Questions?  Email 40DaysForLifeFM@gmail.com
  • Sarasota – 10:30 a.m., Sept. 26, in the parking lot of Community Pregnancy Clinics Inc., 1419 7th St. Contact Rich at 40DFLSarasota@gmail.com.

Culture of Life Conference 2025

Registration is now open for the 38th Annual Culture of Life State Conference! To be hosted by the Archdiocese of Miami on Oct. 4, 2025, the Conference will feature expert speakers on the topics of IVF, Human Trafficking, Amendment 4, and more. Mass will be celebrated by Archbishop Thomas Wenski.  For more information, or to register, visit the Diocese of Venice at www.dioceseofvenice.org, or contact Tavia Ames at 941-374-1068 or ames@dioceseofvenice.org.

North Port Respect Life movie event October 5

“Unplanned” is the inspiring true story of a Planned Parenthood clinic director who became a pro-life advocate after witnessing the reality of abortion. The free showing is 3 p.m., Oct. 5, 2025, at San Pedro Parish, 14380 Tamiami Trail, North Port. Contact Deacon Rich for more information at 914-388-4389.

Fundraiser for organization providing vital support to women

Every woman deserves a safe place to turn when she is pregnant and alone. On Oct. 10, 2025, St. John the Evangelist Parish, 625 111th Ave. N., Naples, is hosting a fundraising dinner for Sunlight Home, an organization that provides vital support and services to women, including those who are pregnant and in crisis, facing homelessness, fleeing abuse or trying to break free from cycles of poverty and fear. Visit sunlighthome.org/event for tickets or more information.

Natural Family Planning introductory sessions available

Learn about Natural Family Planning with a free introductory session. The Diocese of Venice sets forth the Creighton Model Fertility Care System, and free online training sessions are being offered by the St. Gianna Center for Women’s Health & Fertility Care on Sept. 20, and Oct. 21, 2025. Choose the session that fits your schedule! The online sessions are free, but registration is required. Register at bit.ly/SGIntroSession. For more information, visit www.stgiannacenter.com, or direct questions to Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseovenice.org, or 941-486-4754.

Marriage preparation opportunities

Couples preparing for Sacramental Marriage in the Catholic Church are encouraged to attend a Day of Reflection either Sept. 20, 2025, at St. John the Evangelist Parish, Pulte Hall, 625 111th Ave. N., Naples, or Nov. 8 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice. Taking place from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. a specially prepared volunteer team of married couples will share their experiences and information, enabling couples to be more aware of the privileges and responsibilities of marriage. A priest will share information about the vocation of marriage and its spiritual component. The $60 registration fee includes all retreat materials and lunch. Registration is required. Contact James Gontis for more information at gontis@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-484-9543, ext. 4754.

Marriage preparation retreats in Spanish being offered

Marriage preparation retreats in Spanish are being offered Oct. 25, 2025, at St. Jude Parish, 3930 17th St., Sarasota. The retreat cost is $60 per couple. Please call the Parish to register, 941-955-3934. In addition, on Nov. 8 and 9, at St. Peter the Apostle Parish, 5130 Rattlesnake Hammock Road, Naples, is hosting a retreat that will span 1 and ½ days (not overnight). Cost is $150 per couple. Financial assistance is available. Please contact the Parish Spanish Marriage Prep Coordinator, Maria Gomez, for more details and to register, at 239-302-8548 or marly2002@comcast.net.

Laps for Life 5K Oct. 4 in Sarasota

Our Lady of Victory Knights of Columbus Council 3358 in Sarasota is hosting its 6th annual Laps for Life 5K, 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., Oct. 4, 2025, at Cardinal Mooney High School, 4171 Fruitville Road, Sarasota. Proceeds will support Solve Maternity Homes. The cost is $45 per runner/walker. Participants can register at www.RunSignUp.com, under the listing: Sarasota Laps for Life 5K. The Knights of Columbus is also hosting a pre-race Pasta Night, 6 p.m., 8 p.m., in the Knights Hall, 4880 Fruitville Road, Sarasota. Tickets are $10 per person.

11th annual St. Agnes 5K Walk/Run for Life Oct. 4 in Naples

The 11th annual 5K Walk/Run for Life event will take place Oct. 4, 2025, at St. Agnes Parish, 7775 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. Registration on the day of the event opens at 6 a.m. with the race beginning at 7:15 a.m. This event is meant to promote a respect for life message and raise funds for pro-life causes while encouraging healthy living (Body and Soul). The entry fee is $25 for adults and $10 for children under 12 if registered by October 4.  Fees for all entries on the day of the race/walk is $30. To register, please visit the Run for Life link at www.stagnesnaples.org.

Diocesan Rosary Congress returns in October

The Diocese of Venice will host its annual Rosary Congress Oct. 4-10, 2025. The theme of this year’s Rosary Congress is My Soul Magnifies the Lord (Luke 1:46). The Rosary Congress begins with the celebration of daily Mass and ends with Mass at the same time the following day. During these designated 24 hours, the Blessed Sacrament is exposed for perpetual Adoration, and the five decades of the Rosary are prayed by the faithful every hour, on the hour. Many Parishes will also have Confession available. Stay tuned for a list of participating Parishes, and how you can be part of this beautiful opportunity to adore and grow closer to our Lord. For more information, contact Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseofvenice.org, or 941-486-4754.

Jubilee Monthly Days of Prayer Oct. 8 and 12

The Monthly Day of Prayer at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice, for September is Oct. 8 and 12, 2025. Father Leland Thorpe, OMV, will be “Unlocking the Rosary.” Father will help participants find ways to enter more deeply into the Rosary and mine the riches it contains. The day begins at 9:30 a.m. with a continental breakfast and includes two presentations, the opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, lunch, and Mass. Time for adoration, private prayer, or meditation on the beautiful OLPH grounds is also provided. The day concludes at 3:15 p.m. Cost is $45. Register at olph-retreat.org.

Retreat for young women
Single women ages 18-30 who are seeking God’s will in their life are invited to grow deeper in prayer and in their identity as a woman, as well as learn more about discerning religious life during a Fiat Ministries Retreat the weekend of Oct. 10-12, 2025, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice. This retreat is led by Team Fiat, a dynamic group of lay women passionate about supporting other young women. Additionally, consecrated religious sisters from various religious communities from the Council of Major Superiors of Women Religious (CMSWR) assist at each retreat, making each one a unique experience. The goal is for the retreatants to walk away with a greater desire to grow in relationship with Jesus Christ while meeting religious sisters. The cost is $50. Registration can be found at https://fiatministries.org/retreats/. For questions, please email Emily at fiatministriesinc@gmail.com.

Faith & Ale Lee County returns in October

Faith & Ale, a Catholic Men’s Apostolate in Southwest Florida, is entering its 16th season. The monthly gatherings of Catholic men promote fellowship and growth in faith, on the third Thursday of every month between October and April. The next meeting is Oct. 23, 2025, at St. Leo the Great Parish, 28290 Beaumont Drive, Bonita Springs. The guest speaker is Matt Laboda, a father, consultant, speaker and theologian who lives in Ave Maria, and the theme is “The Miracle of Joy – A Journey of Trust & Faith in God.” Tickets are $10. Register at https://faithandale.com. For more information, email faithandalefortmyers@gmail.com.

Bereavement Retreat offered in Venice on Oct. 30

For those grieving the death of a loved one, the Diocese of Venice offers a Bereavement Retreat on Oct. 30, 2025, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice. Led by Deacon Henry deMena, who holds a an advanced degree in counseling, this faith-based retreat offers a safe and prayerful space to find peace, comfort, and healing. For more information or to register, contact Jim Gontis at 941-486-4754, or gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

Catholic Mass on Veterans Day

A Catholic Mass on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 2025, will be held outdoors in Patriot’s Plaza at Sarasota National Cemetery at 3 pm. This annual Mass, now in its 16th year in the Diocese of Venice, has become a sacred tradition. Gathering as one people under God, we honor and remember our United States veterans, both living and deceased. All are welcome to attend and join in prayer for the souls of our faithfully departed veterans as well as for those currently in the military, and all who labor to protect the freedom we enjoy. If you are a member of the military, come, and wear your uniform! Opening ceremonies begin at 2:45 p.m

Ignatian Preached Retreat coming to Retreat Center

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice, is hosting a silent Ignatian Preached Retreat, Nov. 21-24, 2025. This silent retreat will introduce participants to the great themes of the Spiritual Exercises in a group setting. The schedule includes conferences each day, daily Mass, and an opportunity to meet with the retreat director for Confession and/or spiritual direction. Conference topics center on Ignatian spirituality, prayer, and discernment. The cost is $525 per person for a private room and $360 per person for a shared room (retreatant to locate appropriate roommate where silence can be maintained). Register at olph-retreat.org.

Volunteers needed at Catholic Charities Sarasota Office

Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice, Inc., welcomes volunteers who wish to become involved with any of their programs, services or ministries. The most urgent need for volunteers is at the Sarasota office, 5055 N. Tamiami Trail, which offers disaster response, housing and support services, anti-human trafficking, immigration assistance, and much more. Catholic Charities strives to eliminate food insecurity, homelessness and to offer essential mental health services to everyone seeking assistance – regardless of race or religion. To sign up as a volunteer, please visit https://catholiccharitiesdov.org/volunteer, or for more information, please call 941-355-4680 ext. 1100.

Catholic school enrollment numbers reaches new record

Posted on by Bob Reddy

When entering any of the 15 Diocese of Venice Catholic schools you will find a bustling hive of activity, and see images of Christ and the Blessed Virgin Mary everywhere.

The children, in their uniforms – sports jacket, tie and slacks, or a polo shirt and tan pants – are smiling as they go from classroom to classroom eager for the next lesson.

In the classrooms, whether at desks, or in laboratories, students are challenged to learn in a way that is both enriching and fun, in a cooperative environment.

All Diocesan Catholic schools work conscientiously to provide Christ-centered learning experiences that are transferable to the real world, and to provide the opportunity for children to develop life-long learning skills which lead to success beyond the classroom.

Because of this, Diocesan enrollment for the 2025-2026 Academic Year has reached 6,643 students. That is an increase of 49% since 2020.

“We are full up with nearly every school at capacity,” Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocese of Venice Superintendent of Catholic Education, said. “Enrollment numbers are a reflection of how we educate young people for excellence and seek to produce the next generation of leaders for the Church and the world.”

While some of the enrollment increase has been due to the expansion of school choice scholarships through the Florida Step Up For Students program, Father Belmonte said it is much more.

“It was once a well-kept secret that Diocese of Venice Catholic schools provide a top-notch education at all grade levels, but there are exciting things happening in our schools and families are taking notice,” Father Belmonte said.

Most crucially has been the support of Bishop Frank J. Dewane behind a variety of initiatives to help bolster enrollment in the past several years. This includes a curriculum called “The Gifts of Christ: Truth, Beauty, Goodness, Affability, Fortitude, Humility, and Prudence,” a robotics program, expanding the scope of the STREAM model (science, technology, religion, engineering, arts and math), into the classroom.

Bishop Dewane said the increased enrollment is impressive and that he is humbled knowing that more families are putting their trust in the Diocese to educate their children.

“I want to thank all of the parents who have put their confidence in Diocesan Catholics schools, whether they are new to our schools or have been connected to our schools for many years,” Bishop Dewane said. “We have gained this trust by having Christ at the center of everything.”

Bishop Dewane stressed how the increased numbers of students does not lower the standards of Catholic education within the Diocese. To this end, there is a renewed emphasis on Diocesan Catholic Curriculum Standards, which were first implemented in 2018 and were updated for the new school year.

“Religion and faith permeate everything we do,” the Bishop said. “We are integrating faith across the disciplines, so our students know it and live it.”

One school which saw a dramatic increase this year is Donahue Academy of Ave Maria Catholic School in Ave Maria, which saw an increase of 175 students. This was thanks to the availability of additional capacity. New portable classrooms allowed enrollment to expand to 580, up from 264 in 2020.

“At Donahue Academy, we are so blessed to offer a ‘Donahue education’ to 175 new students,” Dr. Marc Snyder, Principal of Donahue Academy said. “What a blessing to be able to ‘open wide the doors to Christ’ to so many new students, forming them into the next generation of saints. Donahue is thrilled to not only bring so many new students to Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament, but to be able to provide them with the same high quality academic education. We feel incredibly humble and grateful and express our gratitude to Bishop Dewane and the Education Office for helping to make these expansions possible.”

Enrollment at St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral has jumped 50% to 623 students since 2020, and Principal Bambi Giles said the influx of new students and families has benefited the entire community.

“St. Andrew is truly blessed each day as we fulfill our mission to ‘Build in Faith, Hearts and Minds,’” Giles said. “We consistently maintain strong enrollment and waitlist numbers, receiving daily inquiries about available open seats across the grade levels. St. Andrew continues to deliver exceptional Catholic education which stems from our teachers’ deep commitment to nurturing the whole child while keeping Christ central to everything we do. Our teachers encourage critical thinking, problem solving and creativity. The Diocesan Curriculum standards and Gifts of Christ combine to prepare students to become real-world problem solvers, witnesses of faith and leaders who serve. Students and families deeply value the exceptional Catholic learning experience we provide.”

Principal Micah O’Connor at St. Ann Catholic School in Naples it is a blessing to se the school grow and how so many families choose St. Ann for their children’s education, as they seek a place where faith and learning go hand in hand.

“This is my second year as principal at Saint Ann, and one of the most remarkable accomplishments this year is our increase in enrollment,” O’Connor explained. “We currently have 555 students enrolled, which is 60 more students than last year. This growth reflects the commitment of families to our mission and our strong reputation for Catholic education within the community. The positive feedback from our parents demonstrates their appreciation for the academic excellence their children are receiving and their spiritual growth.”

Father Belmonte said, “This culture is the vision, values, systems, language, expectations, behaviors, and beliefs that increase a school’s and Diocese’s chances of accomplishing the strategy of fulfilling its mission: to introduce the world to its Savior. That is at the core of what we do, each and every day, and judging by the enrollment numbers, the parents value that by entrusting their children to our schools.”

For more information about Diocesan Catholic schools, please visit www.dioceseofvenice.org/education.

Cathedral renovations reach significant milestones

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The renovations at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice are making great progress with significant milestones reached in recent months.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane, joined by Diocesan Chancellor Dr. Volodymyr Smeryk and Msgr. Patrick Dubois, Cathedral Rector, took a tour of the construction site on Aug. 28, 2025. The tour was part of a regularly scheduled contractor update to review the progress of the work and to address any issues.

Bishop Dewane expressed his pleasure at the progress of the work, which addressed many of the structural needs that required the work to be done in the first place, as well as forming the renovated building to conform to the liturgical and pastoral needs of a Cathedral.

As a Cathedral is considered the “Seat of the Bishop,” many Diocesan-wide Masses are held there, such as the Chrism Mass where the Bishop blesses the Holy Oils used by Parishes for sacramental needs throughout the Diocese all year, the Rite of Election where the Bishop welcomes candidates for entry into the faith, the ordination of priests, the ordination of permanent deacons, and much more.

Epiphany was originally built as a Parish church and not as the “Seat of the Bishop.” With the building showing its age with water leaks, electrical outages, crumbling walls, sinking floors, and a cracked foundation, a major renovation was the best and most practical way to not only repair the church, but create a proper Cathedral.

Within the past month, significant project milestones have been reached: hurricane-proof windows have been installed, the scratch brown coat of plaster has been completed on the exterior walls, the concrete slab throughout the building has been poured and finished, and the interior ceiling layout finalized. The roof is expected to be completed in a few months. Inside, the wall near the sanctuary is already being built and will soon serve as the foundation for a magnificent Epiphany mosaic scene.

With the installation of the hurricane windows, the Cathedral is protected should a storm threaten. This has addressed one of the preeminent concerns of Bishop Dewane as the work has progressed. Temporary barrier walls were in place during the destructive 2024 hurricane season.

Bishop Dewane was also able to see sample representations of the ceiling for the sacristy as well as what the stained-glass windows will look like when they are installed closer to the completion of the building. The glass reflects the major themes which were present in the Cathedral before the renovation. The original windows, which were made of glass embedded in a concrete frame, were not salvageable and required extensive repairs and maintenance through the years. Of note, the donors who contributed to the former windows will be honored on the new windows.

More of the interior’s transformation will include a new, semi-circular sanctuary with the Cathedral’s Tabernacle at its center and a beautiful, custom mosaic behind it, brand new pews, and gleaming marble flooring throughout.

Viewed from the exterior, many of the main elements have been completed. The new barrel-roofed, extended Narthex immediately signals that one has entered a sacred space of importance. Inside the main worship space, the soaring ceiling height inspires awe, and will eventually be a beautiful wooden, Cathedral-height ceiling, which will add warmth to the great space. Expansion for an additional 300 seats and more parking spaces means the Diocesan-wide Masses held at the Cathedral will easily accommodate those who travel from other Parishes to participate.

Outside, a 75-foot double-bell tower with real Church bells will replace the current electronic bell system and will bring the clarion cry of authentic Church bells to downtown Venice, calling all to worship, and prayer. That work will come closer to the conclusion of the project.

The Memorial Garden, which sits on the southeast corner of the Cathedral, is intact and has been preserved to be incorporated in the updated design of the project. Among other improvements, the garden will receive new fencing and a statue of the Pieta.

Msgr. Dubois said he is delighted that the renovations at Epiphany Cathedral are progressing beautifully. He is deeply thankful to Bishop Dewane for his constant paternal encouragement and leadership, which provides strength as the project moves forward.

“God’s providential hand also guides the Cathedral’s renovation,” Msgr. Dubois said. “That is why we cannot but be truly grateful to the parishioners of Epiphany, as well as to many beyond our Parish, for their generosity, their patience, prayers, and their steadfast support during this time of waiting…As we move forward, let us look ahead with ever renewed hope and joy to that day when we return to our renewed Cathedral, giving thanks to God who ‘makes all things new’ (Revelation 21:5).”

The Diocese of Venice is funding 50% of the project’s cost. Epiphany Cathedral’s parishioners, and contributions from all the other Diocesan Parishes combined, will cover the remainder of the cost.

To learn more about the differences between a Cathedral and a Parish Church, and for regular renovation updates, visit: www.epiphanycathedral.org/renovation.

To donate to the Epiphany Cathedral project, please visit www.epiphanycathedral.org/capital-campaign.

State executes 11th person of year, extending terrifying record

Posted on by Bob Reddy

At 6 p.m., Aug. 28, 2025, the State of Florida executed Curtis Windom, the 11th person executed in the state in 2025, extending a gruesome record for the state that seems to have no limit.

While Windom was being executed, prayer vigils were taking place across the state seeking an end to the death penalty. One such prayer vigil took place at San Pedro Parish in North Port.

Deacon Rich Frohmiller led the prayer vigil and said that those present were not there to debate the guilt or innocence of Windom, as he was convicted by a jury of killing three people in the Orlando area in 1992. Nor were they there to justify his violent behavior, but rather they were there to pray for the victims of his crime and for the soul of the man to be executed this evening.

“We gather here this evening to represent those who are against the death penalty,” Deacon Frohmiller said. “The Lord calls us to be here protecting His great gift of life. It’s important to continue to gather and pray without ceasing for the elimination of the death penalty. We are taught to respect the dignity of every person, and we pray that we are never silent about the deliberate taking of a life by the State ‘on our behalf.’”

Present for the prayer vigil were more than two dozen, including Bishop Frank J. Dewane. Bishop Dewane’s presence was in unity with those who stand vigil for each execution. At the conclusion of the prayer service, the Bishop offered the closing prayer. Afterwards he personally thanked individuals for attending.

Bishop Dewane has joined the other Florida Bishops in expressing outrage at the spate of executions in Florida which surpassed a record of executions in one year (8), with no sign of stopping. The Florida Bishops call on Gov. Ron DeSantis to stop signing death warrants, and to revert all execution sentencing to life without parole, a fair and reasonable sentencing in a modern world.

While a call from the Florida Bishops might have some sway over the Governor, Bishop Dewane said prayer remains a powerful weapon in this battle.

“Prayer vigils, such as the ones that take place at San Pedro make a difference,” Bishop Dewane said. “We pray to the Lord not only for the person scheduled to be executed, but for the victims of the condemned, and for all of those in the justice system who had a hand in making these executions happen.”

Bishop Dewane said, “At the heart of Catholic teaching on the death penalty is the truth that human life is sacred because from its beginning it involves the creative action of God, and every person’s life has dignity and worth, ‘no matter the harm one has suffered or caused.’”

The prayer service included hymns and a reading from the Gospel of Matthew 5:38-48, when Jesus said, “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, offer no resistance to one who is evil.” Jesus teaches that we should step beyond what we perceive as our right, and to respond with love. While the Old Testament includes some passages about taking the life of one who kills, the Old Testament and the teaching of Christ in the New Testament call us to protect life, practice mercy, and reject vengeance.

The North Port prayer vigil also included the praying of the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary and offered intercessions seeking to eliminate capital punishment in Florida and elsewhere. The prayer service poignantly paused at 6 p.m. (the time of the execution) to pray in silence.

Since the reinstatement of the death penalty in Florida in 1976, 117 people have been put to death, including Windom. Death warrants have already been signed for two more. David Joseph Pittman, 63, is set to be the 12th person executed in Florida if his death sentence is carried out as scheduled on Sept. 17. The execution of Victor Tony Jones is scheduled for Sept. 30.

Deacon Frohmiller said he will continue to hold a prayer vigil for each scheduled execution, no matter how often they occur. “It is disturbing that this is happening so frequently, but we are called to pray, and will continue to do so until executions end in Florida.”

The execution prayer vigils are held at San Pedro Parish Chapel, 14380 Tamiami Trail, North Port, and begin at 5:30 p.m., lasting less than an hour. All are welcome and encouraged to attend.

Faithful pray for victims of Minnesota Catholic school shooting

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The faithful of the Diocese of Venice have joined in prayer with Annunciation Parish and Catholic School in Minneapolis in the wake of the senseless shooting on Aug. 27, 2025, that left two children dead, wounding 18 others.

Since the shooting, which occurred while students were at the first Mass of the school year, Diocesan Parishes have included extra prayer petitions expressing unity in Christ and consolation for the grieving families as well as the recovery of the wounded.

St. Elizabeth Seton Parish in Naples, which has its own Catholic school, hosted a Candlelight Prayer Vigil, Sept. 2, to pray for the protection of churches, schools, and children.  Father Casey Jones, Pastor, led the service during which the faithful were encouraged to light a candle for the victims.

“We had a wonderful night of prayer and praise before the Blessed Sacrament remembering those affected by the act of terror,” Father Jones stated. “And praying for God’s protection on all of our schools and children. Prayer is power.”

In a statement released in the wake of the tragic shooting, the Diocese of Venice expressed how the news of the shooting left “all heartbroken. Such senseless acts of violence are unacceptable and nearly impossible to understand. Still, we seek God Our Father’s consolation for all those who now suffer.”

The statement went on to note how the safety and security of Diocesan Catholic schools has always been a priority and continues to be a critical component of the planning process for each academic year.

“Although it is believed that the Catholic Schools are secure, the Diocese is in ongoing communication with existing security teams as well as local law enforcement. In this context, we remain steadfast in commitment to campus safety,” the statement noted.

Please continue to pray for the faithful and students at Annunciation Parish and Catholic School, and for the intercession of the Lord to end the cycle of violence that plagues the country.

Find a Parish
Clergy
Find a School
TV Mass
Español
Ways to Give