Bob Reddy, Author at Diocese of Venice

Football players help needy

Posted on February 17, 2020February 17, 2020 by Bob Reddy

Judy Bokorney – Special to the Florida Catholic

For the fourth year in a row, the players and coaches of the Ave Maria University football team treated families at the Casa Mara Soup Kitchen at Guadalupe Social Services of Catholic Charities in Immokalee to a Super Bowl tailgate party.

Instead of the typical meal of soup, the tailgate party consisted of all-American menu of chili dogs, baked beans, potato chips, cupcakes, bread and juice.

The coaches prepared the meal and the players served a total of 120 people on Jan. 31, the Friday before the Super Bowl. To mark the occasion, the soup kitchen dining area was adorned with festive Super Bowl themed decorations.

“We wanted to give our families a fun day with some excitement,” said Guadalupe Social Services Program Coordinator Peggy Rodriguez. “We are grateful to the Ave Maria University Football Team for continuing to come out and do this every year. The interaction between the team and the families is so special.” Three raffle prizes were awarded during the meal as well.

“The players and coaches get a lot more out of it than they give and have the privilege to experience joy, love and gratitude,” said Ave Maria University Football Head Coach Joe Patterson. “Sports is about pursuing excellence and virtue, and you want to be as close to virtue as you can. To engage on a human to human level is integral to the development of the players as men.”

Guadalupe Social Services aims to alleviate the suffering in Immokalee with compassion, integrity, and empathy. By empowering the people through assistance provided to them, the main goals are to ensure human dignity and enhance the quality of life for all individuals served. Guadalupe Social Services focuses on offering the basic needs of food, shelter, clothing, and household items, stability and education.

Thank you to the Ave Maria Football Team for their service!

To learn more about Guadalupe Social Services, the Casa Maria Soup Kitchen and all of the programs of Catholic Charities, please visit www.catholiccharitiesdov.org.

News Briefs from early February 2020

Posted on February 17, 2020February 17, 2020 by Bob Reddy

2020 Sarasota Charity Ball

The Catholic Charities Ball “Puttin’ It On the Ritz!” took place Feb. 8 at the Ritz Carlton Sarasota. The event had a Roaring 20’s theme and featured special guest Tim Tebow, Heisman Trophy winner, two-time Florida Gator National Champion, professional baseball player, sports broadcaster and head of the Tim Tebow Foundation. The event benefited the programs of Catholic Charities in Sarasota and Manatee Counties including Our Mother’s House, Bethesda House, and the St. Martha Early Learning Center.

Blessing of doors

Father Gerard Critch, Pastor St. Peter the Apostle Parish in Naples, blesses the new glass doors in the church that were installed thanks to the fundraising efforts of our CCW – Council of Catholic Women. Now it is more peaceful in the church and it also saves on the air conditioning costs!

School Foundation dinner

Bishop Frank J. Dewane gives the blessing before the meal at the St. Ann Catholic School Foundation Gala Feb. 5 at the Naples Grande Hotel.

Teacher earns research grant

James Less, a teacher at St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral, recently learned that he was a recipient of a research grant from the Society for Science & the Public. Research grants are awarded across the country to a handful of high school and middle school teachers. In his grant submission, Less described he would use the funds to purchase data loggers with probes. The equipment will be used for students to collect, store and analyze their research data. “This equipment will also enable our students to conduct important and timely research because there is great statewide interest in water quality issues in Southwest Florida. The proposed equipment will put our students on the forefront of several local initiatives to undertake field studies that complement those of local colleges and universities.”

Speaker talks abstinence, life issues to teens

Pam Stenzel spoke Feb. 12 to youth at St. Michael Parish in Wauchula about pro-life issues and the importance of abstinence.

Order of Malta holds retreat

Knights and Dames of the Order of Malta took part in a retreat which included Feb. 7 Mass at St. Ann Parish in Naples.

Golf Tournament and $10,000 Drawing

St. Mary Academy’s 9th Annual Golf Tournament will be held 8:30 a.m., April 4, at The Meadows in Sarasota. This is a best-ball tournament and the cost is only $100 per player. Participants will receive breakfast, great goody bags and a sit-down BBQ lunch. In addition, there will be two drawings of $5,000 each during lunch. You do not need to play in the tournament to win the cash prize, tickets for the drawing are $50.00 each.. The event supports St. Mary Academy which educates students with learning disabilities. To register to golf or drawing information, please contact Connie Taft at 941-366-4010 or ctaft@stmarysarasota.org.

Bishop Letter: What it means to be ‘A Disciple of Christ’

Posted on February 3, 2020February 3, 2020 by Bob Reddy

My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

After receiving the blessings of the Christmas Season, celebrating the birth of Christ Our Lord, many return to their ordinary schedules of prayer, work or family obligations. So too, the Church enters a portion of Ordinary Time. Throughout Advent and Christmas, we placed the emphasis of our prayers and attention on welcoming Christ into our hearts and homes while ever awaiting His triumphant return with the Second Coming. Now in this Ordinary Time, we take Christ with us and go forth living what it means to be A Disciple of Christ. Call to mind the lives of Christ’s early Disciples, of the Saints who lived heroically, and even of those great examples of holiness in our own lives. How might we follow these examples in everyday life in order to be A Disciple of Christ?

First let us recall Christ’s words to His Disciples, “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.” (Mt. 28:19-20). Jesus gives them a mission! What mission has the Lord called you to do with your life? Do you help at a food pantry, volunteer at your Parish, work to counter Human Trafficking or the pornography industry that thrives in our society? Yes, it can get messy. How are you deepening your journey in becoming A Disciple of Christ? These are all great ways to take what you have received and to give back in some way in the name of Christ.

To each one of us Christ says, “Without cost you have received, without cost you are to give.” (Matthew 10:8). In order to live as A Disciple of Christ, this mission must be embraced like the Cross itself. Of course, this may be difficult at times, there may be the temptation to think, “What am I able to give?” along with thoughts of inadequacy or tepidness. It is important to know that it is not always big things that the Lord asks of us. St. Mother Teresa, whom I had the pleasure of speaking with on several occasions, taught that, “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.” These words of hers are an encouragement to me as they may be for you as well.

In the Gospel of Mark Jesus tells the parable of the sower. If we focus on the sower he seems absolutely mad. Why? Throwing seed just everywhere with no regard for the soil where the seeds land. The farmer could be thought to be crazy for not targeting the placement of the seed, seeding only the good soil. However, God asks you and I to go out and sow His Word and His love – not only on receptive soil, not only to those who will respond but also on the path, on the rocks and into the thorn bushes. God’s love is irrational, extravagant, embarrassing, even unreasonable and over the top.

So, do not be afraid to do even the big things at the prompting of God on the journey of becoming A Disciple of Christ; the extravagant action that some see as over the top may be what Christ calls you to do as a Disciple. Take the risk, make the move, take even the smallest step and do not worry about who notices. Sow His Word as A Disciple of Christ and leave the rest to the providence of God. Do not be afraid!

In times where the Lord may be asking more of us, the words spoken to St. Paul offer consolation wherein Christ says, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9). Whether something small is being asked of you or something great, there are always more opportunities to respond to this mission; to go forth in the Name of the Lord as A Disciple of Christ. Pope Francis has taught us that “In virtue of […] baptism, all the members of the People of God have become missionary disciples” and continues by saying all the faithful are called to a personal involvement in the work of evangelization.

Have courage in knowing the Lord desires to use you, your particular skills and abilities, your gifts and talents. Continue to invite Christ into your home and your heart, then take Him out into the streets, into your communities. They may not be pretty but as St. Mother Teresa told us, “Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We have only today. Let us begin.” Be encouraged to continue the ways you are already living as A Disciple of Christ in your life and to begin new ways, new actions today.

As we continue this portion of Ordinary Time, let us work together in this mission that Christ has given us to go forth and to spread the Gospel and be A Disciple of Christ. To be people of action!!

Thank you for responding to His call in your life. Rest assured of my prayers that you would continue to allow Christ into your life in new ways, big or small each day and go forth in action. Please keep me in your prayers as well.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Frank J. Dewane

Bishop speaks about Sunday of the Word of God

Posted on February 3, 2020 by Bob Reddy

The newly establish “Sunday of the Word of God” was an opportunity for Bishop Frank J. Dewane to reflect upon the importance of Scripture in the life of all faithful.

Speaking during a Mass at St. Agnes Parish in Naples on Jan. 26, Bishop Dewane noted that Pope Francis designated this Third Sunday of Ordinary Time to refocus the faithful on the Bible. The Bishop stressed that this designation is not a onetime happening, but instead is the beginning of what the Holy Father prays will be a renewed appreciation and understanding of Sacred Scriptures by all Catholics.

“Don’t see it as a burden, but as an opportunity to come to better know and understand the life of Jesus Christ, because when you do, you must be changed,” the Bishop added.

St. Jerome translated the Bible, back in his day, into Latin, making it more widely accessible, said that “ignorance of Scripture, is ignorance of Christ,” something Pope Francis stressed when designating the “Sunday of the Word of God.”

The Scripture we have is inspired by the Holy Spirit, Pope Francis explained. For this reason, the faithful must not just learn the words but the context and the significance and tradition of Scripture. The mere ability to quote the Bible does not guarantee the capacity to understand sacred Scripture.

Pope Francis said that Scripture cannot be interpreted or understood outside of that tradition which began in the early days the Church at the time of Christ.

For this reason, when one reads a passage of Scripture, “let the Holy Spirit unfold it within your mind, where you have an intellect; more profoundly within your heart where you worship the Lord and love God,” Bishop Dewane added. “Allow the Holy Spirit to help you to understand the meaning of Scripture in your own life, in the lives of those around you and beyond.”

“One cannot just read Scripture like a book,” Bishop Dewane stressed. “It is not just any book – it is the Living Word – it is the life of Our Messiah, Our Savior Jesus Christ. It is through Scripture that one can point to the origins of the Sacraments. It is all there to rediscover.”

As part of “Sunday of the Word of God,” Bishop Dewane gave a general blessing of Bibles which the faithful were asked by the Holy Father to bring to Mass. The Bibles were then to be “enthroned” in a place of prominence in their home, in order to emphasize the honor and sacred nature of the texts.

Bishop Dewane encouraged everyone to read Bible passages each day, and that there are no excuses in not doing so because with the availability of applications of smartphones, the Bible is just a few clicks away.

News Briefs from around the Diocese Jan & Feb 2020

Posted on February 3, 2020February 7, 2020 by Bob Reddy

Diocesan group enjoys Catholic Days at the Capitol

During the Jan. 28-30 Catholic Days at the Capitol, Bishop Frank J. Dewane gave a legislative briefing to participants from across Florida. A group of nearly 50, including students from each Diocesan Catholic high school traveled for this important lobbying opportunity.

Seminarian becomes Lector

Diocese of Venice Seminarian Daniel Scalan was among a group of first-year students at Pontifical North American College in Rome, to receive the Ministry of Lector on Jan. 11. Archbishop Bernard Hebda, of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, was the main celebrant and homilist. As part of the rite, the Archbishop placed the Holy Scriptures in the hands of each candidate and said, “Take this book of Holy Scripture and be faithful in handing on the word of God, so that it may grow strong in the hearts of his people.”

National Order of Malta leadership meets in Naples

The Order of Malta – American Association, held and Board of Counsellors meeting in Naples in late January. Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated a Mass for the group on Jan. 27 at St. William Parish.

Register now Mission Possible Immokalee 2020

The very popular Mission Possible Immokalee 2020 trip registration for high school students is NOW OPEN! Organized as a joint effort of the Diocese Mission Office and Office of Evangelization, students will work on service projects from June 8-12, assisting at Catholic Charities of Collier and Lee Counties sites, Guadalupe Social Services and the Coalition of Immokalee Workers. The mission trip is $199 and includes meals, lodging and transportation to work sites. For more information, please contact the Diocese of Venice Mission Office at 239-241-2233. All registration must be through Youth Ministers at your local Parish or Catholic School.

Bishop recognizes Knights of Bikes

Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated Mass at St, Agnes Parish in Naples on Jan. 26, the Sunday of the Word of God. During the Mass, Bishop Dewane offered a special recognition for the Knights on Bikes, a club of Knights of Columbus which includes avid motorcycle enthusiasts. Members took part in the opening and closing processions of the Mass. At the conclusion, the Bishop blessed special key chains with a cross. Each member wears a vest with patches that read: “In God We Trust and Ride” and “In Service to One. Inservice to All.”

Parish honors first responders

St. Agnes Parish in Naples, honored Law Enforcement Officers, Fire Fighters, and First Responders, both active and retired with a Blue Mass on Jan. 25. Dozens of officers attended with their families to honor first responders who died in the line of duty and to pray for the safety of those still serving. The guest homilist was Father Sean Connor, Chaplain of the Boston Police Department. During the final blessing Father Michael Orsi, Parochial Vicar of St. Agnes, blessed medals of St. Michael the Archangel to give out to all the first responders for protection.

North Port Show of Shows

Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice Inc. and the Knights of Columbus hosted The Goldtones Jan. 25 at the first ever North Port Sugar Bowl Show of Shows. Playing songs from 50s and 60s The Goldtones entertained an enthusiastic crowd at the North Port Performing Arts Center at North Port High School. The Sugar Bowl Fund helps support families in crisis, providing emergency financial assistance for low-income families in Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties. The Sugar Bowl Fund is a community partnership between Catholic Charities and the local Knights of Columbus Councils. The goal of the fund is an attempt to keep families together, self-sufficient and relieved of some of the pressures that cause greater hardship. Financial assistance can include help for car repairs, medical bills, utilities, rent or mortgage payments as well as relocation fees. The North Port Show of Shows was the first in this part of the area, similar events have been taking place for several years in Venice each fall and in Bradenton each Spring.

Jammin’ for the Mamas a success

About 130 guests showed up at the Boca Royale Golf and Country Club in Englewood for a “jawsome” night of fun, food, music and fundraising with the Shark Sisters! The Jammin’ for the Mamas event featured the popular local music trio and all proceeds benefited Our Mother’s House of Catholic Charities which serves homeless mothers and their children and helps them to achieve self-sufficiency.

Teaching the Teachers

Posted on February 3, 2020February 3, 2020 by Bob Reddy

Department of Education conducts Clinical Education Course

John Carkeet

More than two dozen teachers and administrators from the Diocese of Venice Catholic Schools gathered Jan. 21 at the Diocese’s Catholic Center in Venice for a Clinical Education Course.

Approved by the Florida Department of Education, clinical education training is required for postsecondary teachers who instruct and/or supervise field experience courses or internships.

“This is the first and arguably the most critical step in the Diocese’s professional mentoring program,” said Jennifer Falestiny, Diocese of Venice Curriculum Coordinator. “In two days, teachers are expected to learn scientifically researched skills, techniques and practices to prepare them to mentor new teachers and host college interns in their classrooms.”

Through videos, roleplay, case studies and breakout sessions, Falestiny is helping teachers acquire a deeper understanding and appreciation of the certification program.

“There are four key skills associated with this course: developing a growth mindset, conducting effective content planning conferences, becoming expert observers and providing target feedback on performance,” said Falestiny. “Teachers who master these skills can confidently lead and mentor our next generation of instructors.”

Falestiny plans to host this and similar courses specifically designed for teachers throughout the remainder of the 2019-20 academic year.

“We are in an age where continuing and clinical education is no longer a convenience but a necessity,” said Falestiny. “We need not just great teachers but great teachers who are willing and able to help other teachers reach their potential. If the Diocese can have at least two certified teachers in this program, then we are in a much better position to retain our talent and enhance our stellar curriculum.”

Winners announced in ‘Disciple of Christ’ showcase

Posted on January 31, 2020August 20, 2020 by Bob Reddy

To celebrate the 35th Anniversary of the founding of the Diocese of Venice in Florida students at Catholic middle schools were asked to answer the question: “What does it mean to be ‘A Disciple of Christ?’” Each student could respond in one of three ways, through language arts, visual arts or video production.

The response from the students to the 35^th Anniversary Student Showcase Competition was impressive and overwhelming as a select committee went through 277 submissions to choose the winners. Announced in mid-January, the winners and honorable mention for each category were as follows:

Visual Arts – Winner: Sara Blandon, 8th grader, St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School, Naples; Honorable mention: Taylor Copeland, 8th grade, St. Francis Xavier Catholic School, Fort Myers;
Language Arts (Essay) – Winner: Ava Irion, 8th grade, St. Francis Xavier Catholic School, Fort Myers; Honorable mention: Christopher Wasdin, 8th grade, St. Mary Academy, Sarasota;
Video Production – Winner: Jasmine Aviles, 8th grade, St. Catherine Catholic School, Sebring; Honorable mention: Theresa Harwell, 7th grade, St. Martha Catholic School, Sarasota.

As Ava Irion says to start her winning essay: “There are many ways in which a person can be a disciple of Christ.”

This was true with the essay, art and video submissions, reflecting the different ways in which Catholic middle school-aged students view this important idea.

The select committee reviewed each submission and struggle to come up with the winners. The criteria that helped to narrow the choice was based on who most closely related their submission to the contest guidelines and prompt: “What does it mean to be ‘A Disciple of Christ?’”

Jennifer Falestiny, Diocesan Curriculum Specialist, was one of the judges and said the quality of the submissions was impressive. “It was difficult, but we were able to narrow it down to know that we made the right choice.”

Each of the winners will receive a $100 gift card and be presented with a certificate a ribbon and later an ice cream truck will come for a formal celebration. The honorable mention recipients will each receive a ribbon and certificate.

Ave Irion’s essay states that using the traits of Jesus as an example in one’s life is critical to becoming “A Disciple of Christ.” These include kindness, acceptance to others and a strong character. Each can turn an ordinary person into someone who loves Jesus with all of their heart, mind, and soul.

In her video submission, Jasmin Aviles cited the Gospel of Matthew 28: 19-20, “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.”

Jasmin went on to say that disciples “are called to love, obey, keep an eye on heaven, and carry crosses. Discipleship has to start somewhere.”

Bishop Frank J. Dewane initiated the idea of being a “Disciple of Christ at the start of the academic year when he went to each Catholic School in the Diocese and celebrated Mass. It was then that he noted how 2019 was the 35th Anniversary of the Diocese so it was appropriate to initiate a new initiative, that they learn how to become “A Disciple of Christ.”

Sara Blandon, winner of the Visual Arts category drew a stunning image of St. Teresa of Calcutta holding a malnourished baby along with an accompanying poem. She wrote that her mind went directly went to the saint when thinking of “A Disciple of Christ.”

The image represents “the love that she put in caring for those who were in need. St. Mother Teresa has exerted a great influence on all individuals. She loved people with all her heart, even those with the worst diseases… With the devotion she gave, she became that true reflection of our Lord. A true disciple is one who gives up everything and helps those who truly need help. But most importantly, a true disciple is one who leads people closer to God.”

The Honorable Mention artwork by Taylor Copeland, 8th grade, St. Francis Xavier Catholic School, Fort Myers, is a drawing of St. Dorcas, also known as St. Tabitha, who is noted by scholars as the first woman disciple. Known for helping the sick and poor, when St. Dorcas died, St. Peter came to her and said “Tabitha, get up.” She then opened her eyes.

Beginning with the Advent Season of 2019 and to celebrate the 35th Anniversary of the Diocese of Venice, the Diocese formally launched a campaign for all to become “A Disciple of Christ.” The campaign is running through the Liturgical Seasons; it began with Advent, then Christmas, and now a portion of Ordinary Time, to be followed by Lent, Easter, and concluding with Pentecost. A Bishop Dewane wrote in a letter to the faithful, these Seasons allow each of us to discover and experience what it means to be A Disciple of Christ. The Liturgical Calendar provides an emphasis on how to live during each Season with its special focus; how to personally follow Jesus and become more united to Him in the daily life of each Liturgical Season.

The call to be “A Disciple of Christ” requires a response from everyone. It may involve speaking out, giving up certain things in your life, or even taking on extra responsibilities, Bishop Dewane wrote. “To be ‘A Disciple of Christ’ does not mean only to follow Him in external practices and the traditions of the Church, but to respond to Jesus from the heart in loving obedience and trust.”

In this regard, Pope Francis said, “We cannot be tepid disciples. The Church needs our courage in order to give witness to truth.”

As Bishop Dewane stated: “You may think, ‘I am already following Christ’ but the call is to intentionally choose to become ‘A Disciple of Christ’ each and every day. Every moment provides an opportunity to be filled with Christ’s love. Allow it to transform your heart and life. Then bring this love to your family, your friends, and as well to your enemies.”

Disciple of Christ: Student Showcase Essay

Posted on January 31, 2020August 20, 2020 by Bob Reddy

The Diocese of Venice in Florida congratulates Ava Irion, 8th grader St. Francis Xavier Catholic School in Fort Myers for taking 1st Place (ESSAY) in the Disciple of Christ Diocese of Venice 35th Anniversary Student Showcase! This was chosen by a select committee out of 106 submission based on the content and its closeness to relating to the theme: “What does it mean to be a Disciple of Christ.” The complete essay is here:

By Ava Irion, 8^th grade, St. Francis Xavier Catholic School

There are many ways in which a person can be a disciple of Christ. If someone is a disciple of Christ, he or she respects and loves all humankind no matter the circumstance. Even more importantly, a disciple of Christ loves God more than their possessions and even more than their family. For example, John 8:31 states that, “A disciple loves others as Jesus has loved him.” By following the Ten Commandments, by helping others in everyday life, and by evangelizing, anyone can become a wonderful disciple of Christ. This is not an easy task, but someone who is a true disciple will surrender everything for God. The following will focus on traits that true disciples display: kindness, acceptance, and character.

To begin, kindness is one of the prime traits that someone needs in order to be a discipline of Christ and to live the way Jesus did. Kindness was displayed by Jesus in many ways throughout his life. He did this by healing, caring, and showing mercy for others. He never judged nor thought that he was better than others. Instead, he helped those who were different. No matter who they were or where they came from, Jesus showed kindness to everyone he came across. Some might think that this would be easy to do, however Jesus even showed immense kindness toward his enemies. Matthew 5:44 explains, “I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.” Jesus followed these words and was kind to those who persecuted him and to those who cursed him. So the challenge is to live and act the way that Jesus did in his life. If we use kindness towards our neighbors, loved ones, and enemies more often in our everyday lives, we will be closer to living as a disciple of Christ.

Next, Jesus showed acceptance to others in his life. Acceptance of those who may look or act differently is very hard to do. However, all people need to be treated with human dignity and respect. Jesus showed acceptance many times in the Bible. One example is in Matthew 8:14 when Jesus touched the untouchable. Back in the time of Jesus, people who were visibly ill were outcasts. They were the “scraps” of the society. However, Jesus still loved them very much. In Matthew 8:14, a leprous man approached Jesus as he was walking up a mountain side. The man begged Jesus to be healed. Jesus broke all of the laws and boundaries as he walked up to the leper man and touched him. In one small, single touch, the leper was healed and was free to live the rest of his life. The man was cast out from society because of his differences but Jesus accepted him. Jesus was the only one who still saw this man as a human and not as some sort of monster. This acceptance from Jesus changed the man’s life. Jesus chose to see him as a real person and not as a plague. This enabled the man to be cured. Acceptance was powerful and life-changing, as it can be in each person’s daily life.

Finally, character is a trait that can turn an ordinary person into someone who loves Jesus with all of their heart, mind, and soul. Character can mean that someone is a role model, and that this person cares for others. Parents are a great example of this, as they are role models to their children. Parents can teach lifelong lessons such as, “Treat others how you want to be treated.” Parents model behavior for their children to learn and to act upon as the children grow into adults. Parents show their children how to treat others with respect. No matter what life throws at someone, that person can look to the character of their parents and think about what they would do in that situation. Another role model with strong character is Jesus. Jesus displayed character by showing forgiveness, love, and compassion. To act like Jesus means to not hold a grudge, to never wish harm to anyone, and to never try to one up someone to feel superior. Jesus forgave the people that killed him. Forgiveness in today’s world might not have to be that extreme, but one should never hold a grudge and should learn to love those who hurt them. The love of Jesus is the most radiant and powerful love ever. People need to love as he does. They need to love their neighbors and love him, with all of their hearts, minds, and souls. Finally, Jesus always had compassion for everyone he came across. Instead of worrying for himself, he thought of others and how he could help them. If humans learn from their parents and demonstrate the great character of Jesus, anyone can become a disciple of Christ.

Overall, a disciple of Christ needs to have the traits of kindness, acceptance, and character. If someone can demonstrate these virtues to others the way that Jesus did, they are becoming a disciple of Christ. The core of being a disciple of Christ is interesting and complex, but, ultimately, it means living like Jesus did. If people truly love Jesus and act with kindness, acceptance, and character, they can be one of the strongest and most amazing disciples of Christ. How will you use these traits to become a disciple of Christ?

Apologetics talks focus on Real Presence and Angels

Posted on January 31, 2020 by Bob Reddy

The Office of Evangelization offered two opportunities to take part in the latest Apologetics Conference, “Defend Youth Faith: Finding answers to modern problems in the early Church.”

Mike Aquilina, an author on early Church history and executive vice-president of the St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology in Steubenville, Ohio, spoke Jan. 16 at Resurrection Parish in Fort Myers and on Jan. 17 at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice.

Diocese Director of Evangelization Joshua Mazrin said the talks were about providing the truth about Catholic teaching. The response was overwhelmingly positive.

The first talk by Aquilina focused on the role of angels in the Bible and in our lives. Starting in the Book of Genesis through the arrival the Messiah, Jesus Christ, and beyond, angels are pervasive.

“It was God Himself who made sure that our Bible, both the Old Testament and New Testament, would be packed full of stories of exchanges and conversations and interactions between angels and human beings,” he said. “Those scenes are the foundational stones of what we call the Catholic devotion to the Holy Angels.”

This gift of angels are a gift from God, helping us get from the place where we are, to the place we need to go, Aquilina noted. “Call upon the angels in your need, and they will bring us, as they brought Jesus, through sorrow to glory.”

The second talk focused on the need for the faithful of today to use the example of the first Christians who “devoted themselves to the Apostolic teaching, to the communion, and to the breaking of the bread and the prayers.” This was a total giving of self, and Aquilina add that “their martyrdom consisted in a daily dying to self in imitation of Jesus Christ.”

For example, they would never eat lavishly while others were hungry, or never hold back their testimony to the faith if any of the others were living in sin or in ignorance of the love of Jesus Christ, Aquilina explained. These early Christians were closer to Jesus than they were to their family because the Lord promised them that they would live in Him, and He would live in them.

“This was, and is, the deepest truth of the faith,” Aquilina said. “In Jesus Christ, we live as sons and daughters of the eternal Father – we share His own divine life. In Jesus Christ, we can call God our Father because God is eternally His Father.”

Aquilina concluded by saying that we must give the total gift of self to Christ if we want to become what God made us to be. “There is no other way to be happy.”

Applications being accepted for scholarship

Posted on January 31, 2020January 31, 2020 by Bob Reddy

The Catholic Community Foundation of Southwest Florida is once again proudly offering “Mary Fran Carroll Scholarships” to residents of Sarasota County, for the 2020-21 academic year. A total of 11 scholarships, each valued at $3,000, are being offered for both traditional and non-traditional students. Scholarships can be used for tuition, books and fees at an accredited college, university or vocational program (housing expenses are not eligible).

This scholarship which was made possible through the Catholic legacy of Mary Fran Carroll and her generous gift to the Catholic Community Foundation of Southwest Florida. Mary Fran Carroll was a woman of deep Catholic faith, who wanted those receiving her scholarships to benefit from her legacy by being better prepared to face the challenges of the world today and the ages to come, in addition to using their education for the betterment of the entire community.

Through Ms. Carroll’s generous gift to the Foundation, traditional academic scholarships of $3,000 each will be available to residents of Sarasota County. These traditional educational opportunities will be open to graduating seniors and recent high school graduates (within the last two years) from Catholic, private or public high schools in Sarasota County who wish to pursue an undergraduate degree at any accredited college or university.

In addition, non-traditional academic scholarships of $3,000 each will be available to residents of Sarasota County. These non-traditional educational opportunities will be open to adult learners who are returning to school to obtain a college degree or vocational certification after being out of high school for three or more years.

Previous Traditional and Non-traditional “Mary Fran Carroll Scholarship” winners can apply to renew their scholarships for up to a total of five academic years for students maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.2 on a 4.0 (unweighted) scale.

All applications and supporting documents must be submitted electronically at www.ccfdioceseofvenice.org by 11:59 p.m. March 1, 2020.