Bob Reddy, Author at Diocese of Venice

Ground broken for Parish Youth Center

Posted on November 20, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Bishop Frank J. Dewane presided over a blessing and groundbreaking ceremony for the St. John Bosco Youth Center at St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers on Nov. 16, 2025.

The Youth Center will serve as a safe space dedicated to help young men and women grow in their faith as children of God.

Bishop Dewane celebrated the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass prior to the blessing and groundbreaking ceremony, praising the vision of St. John XXIII Pastor Jay Raju, the religious education staff, and the parishioners for their dedication to supporting the youth through the building of a Youth Center.

“It is about our future, and about the future of the Church,” Bishop Dewane said. “Most importantly, it is about the future of young people, living as men and women of God.”

Father Raju thanked the Bishop for supporting the project and being present for the groundbreaking ceremony. “The Bishop has so much love for the future of the Church, and his presence with us today is an expression of that love.”

During the ceremony, Bishop Dewane thanked those who supported the project both materially and with their prayers, noting that youth require an invitation to be active in their faith. The new building is a special way to offer that invitation to the young people of the Parish.

As part of the blessing, Bishop Dewane added, “The work we do here will continue to build up the Lord’s Kingdom. May the Lord bless all who will occupy this Youth Center and benefit from it for many years to comes.”

Bishop blessed the people first, then the construction site, noting how the people are the living stones upon which the Church is supported.

Joining Bishop Dewane during the groundbreaking were Father Raju, Parish Business Manager Holly Atkins, Kelly Evers, Parish Coordinator of Youth & Young Adult Ministry, and two of the project’s major supporters. Bishop Dewane then held a second symbolic groundbreaking with members of the Parish Youth Council.

Several members of the Youth Council shared their excitement for the project, expressing their gratitude to the Parish for supporting the construction of the Youth Center, but also eagerly anticipating when their new home will be completed in the spring.

The Youth Center has been in the planning stages for many years and Evers said, “This is a great day. I am so happy for our youth that they will soon have a place to call their own.”

The Youth Center will include a large gathering room, as well as smaller meeting spaces. There will be a covered pavilion for outdoor gatherings, as well as facilities for games and other fun. The outside of the building will have mosaics and potentially a statue of St. Carlo Acutis, the newest Catholic saint who was canonized by Pope Leo XIV on Sept. 7, 2025. St. Carlo was an Italian teen who died at 15 and was known for his devotion to the Most Holy Eucharist and his use of digital media to promote Eucharistic Miracles around the world.

Five La Florida martyrs from Diocese geography up for canonization

Posted on November 20, 2025 by Bob Reddy

As the cause for Martyrs of La Florida Missions, Antonio Inija and 57 companions moves forward, it should be noted that five of the martyrs, including the first Native American martyrs, died during an incident within the bounds of the Diocese of Venice.

Lynn Mangan, Vice Postulator for the Cause for La Florida Martyrs, said the “beautiful martyrdom event that took place in the fall of 1696 near or in the Diocese of Venice. The exact location has not been identified by archaeologists. There are five proposed martyrs, Servants of God, in this event, who, along with the other Martyrs of La Florida, are under review in the Roman Phase by the Dicastery of the Causes of Saints.”

Mangan said of the five martyrs, sadly, only the name of the priest is known today, Father Luis Sanchez, a Franciscan friar.

“Although we do not know the names of these four indigenous martyrs, their stories are known and treasured. Their sacrifice was extraordinary and their gift was no less than that of Father Sanchez,” Mangan said.

The perpetrators of the martyrdom event, like the others of La Florida, wanted to stop the Catholic Faith from being planted and growing in the region.

Father Sanchez was a Franciscan missionary born in Havana, Cuba, in 1661. Father was aware of the risks of ministering in a territory that had few baptized Christians yet volunteered to go with great charity to love the native people, Mangan explained.

Serving among the native Myakka people in an area then known as the Joror region of Florida, south of Orlando near the headwaters of the Kissimmee River, far from the protection of the Spanish in St. Augustine, Father Sanchez endeared himself to people of the area. Not all indigenous people were so receptive.

Oct. 9, 1696, a group of natives from a nearby village attacked Father Sanchez as he was preparing for the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass with a native sacristan and altar boy, a young cacique (chief) from the town of Aypaja in the Jororo province. The natives were told to denounce their faith under threat of killing Father Sanchez, but they refused. As they were beaten to death, Father absolved them of their sins.

Father Sanchez was then killed, and the assailants tore his bloody habit to pieces. His parishioners came to the site and wept at the loss of their beloved pastor.

A few weeks later, following the martyrdom of Father Sanchez and the two Jororo natives, another revolt would claim the lives of two more indigenous men. They were men of the Guale tribe who traveled on foot approximately 300 miles through the winding paths of Florida’s wilderness from about 125 miles north of St. Augustine in what was at least a 19-day journey. All this to evangelize the indigenous people of these lands of central Florida where so few had heard the Good News.

The details of the martyrdom are available thanks to the journal of a witness, a Quaker named Johnathan Dickinson. Mangan added that one of the assailants who killed the martyrs, before dying of natural causes, requested baptism before his death.

“The Native Americans in this event are the first recorded Native American martyrs in our country,” Mangan said. “Father Sanchez’s martyrdom is honored in a beautiful mural in the National Shrine of Our Lady of Charity in Miami.”

The cause for Martyrs of La Florida Missions, Antonio Inija and 57 companions, was initiated through the Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee in 2015 and has been researched as a part of Florida’s Catholic history dating back more than three centuries. The research covers a period from 1549 to 1715 and includes nine Dioceses united in the cause. The martyrdom of the 58 individuals spanned 14 different events. Most were lay people, most Native Americans – as well as priests and brothers from different religious orders. Even an unbron child is listed among the martyrs, and if beatified, will be the first unborn saint. Eight volumes of research have been presented to the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints in Rome and is currently under consideration.

To learn more about the Martyrs of La Florida Missions, Antonio Inija and the 57 companions, please visit https://www.martyrsoflafloridamissions.org/.

News Briefs for the week of November 21, 2025

Posted on November 20, 2025November 20, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Appointments

After consultation, Bishop Frank J. Dewane announces the following:

Father Philip Scheff, retired as Parochial Vicar of St. Charles Borromeo Parish, Port Charlotte, effective November 29, 2025, and thus, is to be relieved of his duties as Parochial Vicar at St. Charles Borromeo Parish.

Father James Simko, retired as Parochial Vicar of St. Joseph Parish, Bradenton, effective November 30, 2025, and thus, is to be relieved of his duties as Parochial Vicar at St. Joseph Parish.

Father Raùl Zamora, is relieved of his duties as Parochial Vicar of St. Leo the Great Parish, Bonita Springs, effective November 30, 2025.

Father Juan Carlos Sack, as temporary Parochial Vicar of St. Leo the Great Parish, Bonita Springs, effective Nov. 30, 2025, and thus, is temporarily relieved of his duties as Parochial Vicar of Our Lady Queen of Heaven, LaBelle.

Founding principal of Cape Coral Catholic school dies

Sinsinawa Dominican Sister Elizabeth (Mary Denysa) Dunn, OP, who was the founding principal at St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral, died Nov. 14, 2025. Sister Elizabeth started the school with less than 80 students in 1989. Within her 10 years of service the school grew to more than 500 students. Her leadership witnessed the implementation of the St. Andrew Catholic School Festival, building expansion and establishing a faith-filled school community. Over the course of her 60-year career in Catholic education, Sister Elizabeth served as a teacher at schools in six states and principal at five different Catholic schools. She also ministered in leadership for the Sinsinawa Dominican Congregation as a general councilor, provincial councilor, and associate prioress at Stair Crest. She was a champion of Catholic education and believed that a Christian atmosphere of learning builds a strong heart, mind, and faith life of students. Born in Wisconsin, Sister Elizabeth professed vows with the Dominican Sisters of Sinsinawa in 1964. There will be an interment prayer service Nov. 24, in the St. Clara Chapel, Sinsinawa Wisconsin, prior to her burial in St. Clara Cemetery.

Students support food pantry

St. Joseph Catholic School in Bradenton recently rallied together to collect more than 1,000 items for the St. Joseph Food Pantry. The school Builders Club and K-Kids helped to organize the food drive the week of Nov. 20-24, 2025, to help those in need in Manatee County. A second and third grade class combined to collect more than 400 items, and they will celebrate their achievement by having a joint pizza party.

WARNING – Text/Email Scam Alert

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. The scam often claims that the priest, Bishop, or staff member is in need of gift cards or money to aid a sick child, relative, or parishioner. 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 for how to make donations and participate in the life of the Diocese, Parish, or school. If you receive such a scam text or email, please do not respond, and immediately contact the Diocese, Parish, or school directly!

Faith & Wine in Lee County Dec. 4

Faith & Wine, an outreach for uniting Catholic women of all backgrounds and ages to develop friendships and to support one another as they apply the Gospel to their lives, will have its first event of the 2025-2026 season Dec. 4, 2025, at Resurrection of Our Lord Parish, 8051 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers. The guest speaker is Annie Karto, and her talk is titled “A Perfect Penance.” Tickets are $28 and include a 3-course meal with wine followed by a presentation by an inspirational speaker. Doors open at 6 p.m. with dinner to follow. Program begins at approximately 6:45 p.m. and ends at approximately 8:30 p.m. For more information, or to register, please visit https://faithandwineleecounty.com/.

Nostra Aetate 60th Anniversary Symposium

The Catholic-Jewish Dialogue of Collier County, a longstanding Southwest Florida interfaith partnership, is hosting a panel of distinguished theologians, professors and clerics, including Bishop Frank J. Dewane, to discuss the impact of Nostra Aetate, the historic Catholic document that changed 20 centuries of Catholic-Jewish relations. The two-day symposium, titled “Nostra Aetate – 60 years: A new path for Catholic-Jewish relations,” will be held at 2 p.m., Dec. 6, 2025, at Ave Maria University, 5050 Ave Maria Blvd., Ave Maria, and 2 p.m., Dec. 7 at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center, 4720 Pine Ridge Road, Naples. The same program will be presented for two consecutive days. The symposium will also be available virtually via Zoom. Register for the symposium, either in-person or online, at www.jewishnaples.org.

Faith & Ale Lee County Dec. 11

Faith & Ale, a Catholic Men’s Apostolate in Southwest Florida, offers monthly gatherings of Catholic men to promote fellowship and growth in faith, every month between October and April. The next meeting is Dec. 11, 2025, at Church of the Resurrection Parish, 8121 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers. The guest speaker is Tom Shillue, a FOX News panelist and comedian. The talk will focus on his book regarding fatherhood where the author “modernizes the lessons of his parents, fathering his own daughters in today’s modern world.” Tickets are $10. Doors open at 6 p.m. Register at https://faithandale.com. For more information, email faithandalefortmyers@gmail.com.

Advent Retreat at OLPH

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice, is hosting an Advent Retreat: Contemplative Prayer and the Spiritual Journey, from 5 p.m., Dec. 12, through 1 p.m. Dec. 14, 2025. The retreat will be led by Father Murchadh O’Madagain, PH.D., Pastor of St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Fort Myers, and author of several books. This retreat looks at the spiritual journey, inviting all into a quiet, transformative form of prayer rooted in the Christian tradition—a way of consenting to God’s presence and action within. Through guided conferences, shared silence, and spiritual reflection, you’ll explore how to enter deep interior stillness, following centuries of tradition in the Catholic Church. It is a perfect way to prepare to welcome our Savior at Christmas! Register at olph-retreat.org.

Bishop to speak at Theology on Tap Dec. 18

Bishop Frank J. Dewane will be the guest speaker for the Dec. 18 gathering of the Theology on Tap in Sarasota. Theology on Tap is a monthly meeting of fellowship, faith, and fun with fellow Catholic young adults from across the Diocese. Don’t miss this chance to grow in faith, connect with others, and enjoy a great evening together. Theology on Tap meets on the third Thursday of every month (except November) at Oak & Stone, 5405 University Parkway, University Park. There is no cost to attend, and no registration required. Bring a friend!

Ave Maria Veterans Ball Jan. 10

All are welcome to attend the Ave Maria Veterans Ball, 6 p.m., Jan. 10, 2026, at the Del Webb Grand Hall, Ave Maria. The keynote speaker is Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, Archbishop for the United States Military Services, USA. Tickets are $125 per person and service tables and sponsorships are available. For more information visit AveMariaKOFC.org/Veterans-Ball.

Catholic Charismatic Renewal retreat Jan. 10

The Diocese of Venice Catholic Charismatic Renewal will host a one-day retreat, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Jan. 10, 2026, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice. The speaker is Father John Gordon, and the theme is “Jesus is Our Light and Hope.” The cost is $60, which includes a continental breakfast and lunch. Register at www.charisms.org.

Surviving Divorce family program offered in January

A twelve-week program, Surviving Divorce: Hope and Healing for the Catholic Family, is offered with group meetings beginning Jan. 15, 2026, at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, 1301 Center Rd., Venice. The program provides a confidential place to ask the tough questions with trained leaders. The cost of the program is $25 and includes a workbook and access to all videos. For more information and to register, email Bob and Chris Smialek bobandchrissmialek@icl or 815-275-5305.

March for Life, Washington D.C., Jan. 22-23, 2026

The March for Life is the largest annual human rights demonstration in the world. Every January, tens of thousands of pro-lifers converge in Washington, D.C. and march on Capitol Hill. The March is Jan. 22-23, 2026. The goal? To advocate for laws that protect the sanctity of life, and to influence the culture so that it may become a culture of life. Even with the overturning of Roe v. Wade, the work to build a culture of life and put an end to abortion is not done; the effort continues at both state and federal levels. In fact, protecting life has gotten even more complex, with the advance and prevalence of the abortion pills, and their easy, anonymous distribution. Join this inspiring, peaceful, vibrant rally of women, men, and people young and old from across the country, and fight for life! If you are planning to participate in the March for Life or are interested in additional information, please contact Tavia Ames at ames@dioceseofvenice.org or call 941-374-1068.

Save the Date! 2026 Butterfly Ball

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. Celebrate the last 30 years and toast to the next 30 at the Butterfly Ball on Jan. 24, 2026, at the St. Thomas More Parish Chelsea Center, 2506 Gulf Gate Drive, Sarasota. Tickets are $200. The special guest speaker is Father Shawn Monahan, OMV. For more information on how you can support or participate in the celebration, visit the https://www.olph-retreat.org/olph-2026-butterfly-ball.

2026 Sunshine State Steak Cook-off

Mark your calendar for the 16th annual Sunshine State Steak Cook-off Championship, Jan 24, 2026, in Ave Maria. Ave Maria Knights Council 14697 is hosting the event. Enjoy a day of family fun with food vendors, games and fun houses for the kids, as well as a farmer’s market, and silent auction, all topped off with a championship steak dinner. The dinner includes a 16 oz boneless ribeye steak, potato salad, roll and bottled water. To register a team for the cook-off, or to purchase tickets for the dinner, please visit www.sssco.org.

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

Catholic Charities offers Mental Health Counseling Services

Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice is offering mental health counseling, including tele-health, 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 on this service, please call 239-455-2655 or visit Catholic Charities online: www.catholiccharitiesdov.org.

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.

2025 Catholic Mass honors veterans at National Cemetery

Posted on November 18, 2025November 18, 2025 by Bob Reddy

The 16^th Annual Catholic Mass on Veterans Day at Sarasota National Cemetery was celebrated to pray for all who serve or have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, including those who are on active duty, as well as those who have died, and their families.

More than 1,000 people attended the Mass which takes place in Patriots Plaza at the National Cemetery in Sarasota on Nov. 11 each year. Bishop Frank J. Dewane initiated the Catholic Mass in 2010 just two years after the cemetery opened.

The main celebrant and homilist for the Mass was Father Bob Kantor, Pastor of St. Agnes Parish in Naples, State Chaplain of the Knights of Columbus, and a retired U.S. Navy Chaplain. Among Diocesan priests concelebrating were several veterans, and newly ordained Father Jacob Gwynn, a U.S. Navy Chaplain, who serves at St. John the Evangelist Parish in Naples.

Father Kantor expressed how he was blessed and honored that Bishop Dewane selected him to celebrate the Catholic Veterans Day Mass at the National Cemetery, having served during Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.

“It is important that we gather together in prayer on this special day,” Father Kantor said. “The Gospel message of the day is about selflessness, of looking out for the other, and of laying down one’s life for them. The men and women who serve in the military conducting themself honorably during the midst of the horrors of war. It is not easy.”

Father spoke of the struggle of veterans who have scars earned on the field of battle or those that lay deep in their hearts, knowing they came home when their comrades did not. He prayed that they find peace in their minds and hearts that only God can give.

Veterans Day prophetically falls on the Feast of St. Martin of Tours, a Bishop who was a soldier who then dedicated his life to God. Father Kantor noted that the Saint’s life represented a transition from war to a condition of peace. The holiday was established following World War I as a recognition of the end to that terrible conflict on Nov. 11, 1918. Established as Armistice Day by President Woodrow Wilson in 1919, the day similarly marked a transition from war to peace. The recognition was broadened to honor and thank all who have served in the U.S. Armed Services, becoming Veterans Day under President Dwight D. Eisenhower.

“St. Martin serves as an example as we are all called to live as missionary disciples and Christian witnesses, walking that extra mile and showing patience for those who do us wrong,” Father Kantor said. “We depend upon divine grace to show us what is the right path. In a world that is so divided and continues to be at war across the globe – we must be peacemakers and look beyond the divides that prevent us from seeing the dignity in all people “

Father Kantor concluded, “We pray that warring parties everywhere may acknowledge and respect the fundamental dignity of all human beings and seek avenues that lead to peace.”

Prior to the opening of the Mass, all veterans – active and retired – were asked to stand and be recognized and were honored with resounding applause. This was followed by the presentation of a commemorative wreath, the American and Vatican flags by the Knights of Columbus Color Corps, and then the singing of the National Anthem.

New in 2025 was the performance of selected patriotic music by members of the Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School Symphonic Band from Sarasota, led by the school’s Music Department Head, Cindi McCarthy.

The Sarasota National Cemetery celebration concluded with a procession, escorted by the Knights of Columbus Color Corps to the nearby graves as those in attendance sang “God Bless America.”

Father Kantor, priests, Deacons, the Knights of Columbus Color Corps, and all present, then gathered in silent prayer before “Taps” was played on a trumpet by Cardinal Mooney Sophomore Molly Compa.

Brian Cable, a parishioner at St. Martha Parish in Sarasota and a combat-wounded U.S. Marine who served during the Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, attends the Catholic Mass on Veterans Day each year, because he feels it is his duty to honor the memory of his comrades in arms.

“I proudly served my country, but I am here to recognize those who are buried here, and the fallen in cemeteries overseas,” Cable said. “This Catholic Mass every year is important as it recognizes the sacrifice made by our veterans.”

There are now more than 25,000 veterans and eligible family members currently interred in the National Cemetery and some 18.5 million military veterans in the United States.

The Diocese of Venice coordinates the Catholic Mass at the National Cemetery with the backing of the Knights of Columbus and is grateful for the support of Sarasota National Cemetery.

During the Mass, the gifts were brought forward by Erica Gregory, an Air Force Academy graduate who became a Lt. Colonel and served in Iraq, and her mother Domini Stone. A wonderful example of the military families honored at this special Mass.

Annual Holocaust commemoration held in Naples

Posted on November 18, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Survivors share vivid accounts of perils they faced as children

On the night of Nov. 9-10, 1938, members of the Nazi party sponsored anti-Jewish riots (pogroms) which attacked Jewish persons and destroyed Jewish owned property in Germany and Austria. Known as “Kristallnacht, the Night of Broken Glass,” this event is regarded by historians as “the Night the Holocaust began” in Europe, which ultimately led to the murder of more than six million Jews.

To ensure no one ever forgets those events and to stand united in saying “Always Remember!” “Never Forget!” and “Never Again!” the Catholic-Jewish Dialogue of Collier County (CJD) hosted its 22nd annual “Kristallnacht: The Night of Broken Glass” commemoration Nov. 9, 2025, at Temple Shalom in Naples. The event was co-sponsored by the Diocese of Venice and Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, GenShoah of SWFL, and the Holocaust Museum and Janet G. and Harvey D. Cohen Education Center.

Marty Gauthier, Co-Chair of the CJD, shared the regrets of Bishop Frank J. Dewane, who was unable to attend the important interreligious commemoration due to a meeting of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. Gauthier emphasized that Bishop Dewane has always been, and remains, wholeheartedly committed to the mission of the Catholic-Jewish Dialogue.

Gauthier also shared the mission of the CJD, which is to promote an understanding of the mutual and shared history of the Catholic and Jewish faiths, and to advance acceptance of their differences and commonalities in a setting of respect, trust, faith, and hope.

During the commemoration, Erin Blankenship, President and CEO of the Holocaust Museum & Cohen Educational Center in Naples, introduced a Kristallnacht film, which included firsthand accounts of the “Night of Broken Glass.” During the horrific night, the organized Antisemitic acts of violence damaged or destroyed more than 1,400 synagogues, vandalized thousands of Jewish-owned businesses, broke into Jewish people’s homes, and desecrated religious objects. The rioters also humiliated, assaulted and killed hundreds of Jewish people. In addition, 26,000 were arrested and sent to prisons and concentration camps. This was the end, at this time in history, of any hope of having Jews continuing to safely live in Germany.

The annual commemoration included a candle lighting ceremony. Nine candles were lit by Gen Shoah (first- second- and third-generation Holocaust survivors), joined by teens from St. William Parish in Naples. Each lit their candle for the victims of the Holocaust and for a brighter future.

Among the survivors to speak was Heinz Wartski, who was 9-years-old living in Danzig, Germany, when Kristallnacht took place. He recounted how terrifying it was to be a witness to the destruction of his community and the burning of the synagogue. His family emigrated to Italy on fake passports before the start of World War II. There the family joined the Italian partisans fighting fascism before being liberated by Allied troops. He later served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and is a disabled veteran.

Another speaker was Robert Hilliard, 100-years-old, a World War II U.S. Army veteran who helped liberate a camp. Hilliard shared that while serving in post-war Germany, he, and a fellow soldier, became outspoken advocates for the care of the Jewish liberated survivors of the Holocaust by the U.S. Army. He reported the mistreatment of survivors and corruption in the U.S. military, eerily similar to how they were treated by the Nazis. Hilliard’s efforts gained national attention, forcing President Harry S. Truman to direct a more humane treatment of the Holocaust survivors.

Antonio Giacalone, a member of the St. William Parish youth group, was among the teens to speak, “As a Catholic teenager, I stand in sorrow. Though I come from a different faith, I mourn the Jewish lives lost. Their memory matters to me, to all of us. May this light (of the candle) shine as a light that we may never forget their suffering and that we will stand against hatred in every generation.”

Also participating in the commemoration was Father Mark Harris, who, along with Rabbi Mark Gross of the Jewish Congregation of Marco Island, recited the Mourner’s Kaddish. The closing benediction was offered by Rabbi Ammos Chorny of Beth Tikvah Congregation in Naples.

The CJD is affiliated with Jewish Federation of Greater Naples and the Collier County Parishes of the Diocese of Venice.

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Catholic-Jewish symposium coming to Ave Maria and Naples in December

The Catholic-Jewish Dialogue of Collier County, a longstanding Southwest Florida interfaith partnership, is hosting a panel of distinguished theologians, professors and clerics to discuss the impact of the historic document that changed 20 centuries of Catholic-Jewish relations. Bishop Frank J. Dewane is among the panelists. The two-day symposium, titled “Nostra Aetate – 60 years: A new path for Catholic-Jewish relations,” will be held at 2 p.m., Dec. 6, 2025, at Ave Maria University, and 2 p.m., Dec. 7 at the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, 4630 Pine Ridge Road, Naples. The same program will be presented for two consecutive days. This is the 60th anniversary of Nostra Aetate (In Our Time), a Catholic document created during the Second Vatican Council. Among other things, the document repudiated anti-Semitism and the charge that Jews were collectively guilty for the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It calls for interfaith dialogue to promote a better understanding of each other’s faith, emphasizes the spiritual connection of humanity, promotes a mutual respect among all religions, and rejects all forms of discrimination and antisemitism. Register for the symposium at www.jewishnaples.org.

Annual Hispanic Festival in Sarasota draws thousands

Posted on November 18, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Beautiful weather accompanied a day filled with food, fun, entertainment and lots of smiling faces for the 21^st Annual Hispanic Festival at St. Jude Parish in Sarasota.

An estimated 8,000 people gathered at St. Jude for this event on Nov. 8, 2025, a celebration of both the individual nations and the unified culture of a diverse Parish.

Held annually in November, this annual Festival is the oldest one in Sarasota County to feature authentic Latino food, music and culture. The day includes musical performances and ethnic dancers as well as food from many nations.

Throughout the Parish grounds were tents full of a wide variety of foods that left many mouths watering. People attend the event annually from as far away as Naples and Clearwater. It has become a much anticipated and beloved event for the Parish.

The Hispanic Festival opened with prayer, followed by a “Parade of Flags” as each country represented at the festival was announced, and the respective flags brought forth cheers.

As a bilingual Parish, the members of both the English and the Spanish speaking congregation at St. Jude participated and volunteered to staff the booths.

Father Jiobani Batista, Pastor at St. Jude, was pleased by the turnout and said it is a source of pride for the faithful to honor the tradition of the homeland of their families. “People are proud of where they come from. Many nations were represented but we are all one community.”

The celebration of more than a dozen countries lasted from noon until sunset. Throughout the day, there were performances, offering folk and modern music, and dance. Many proudly wore clothing representing their country of origin.

Liliana Hernandez, 10, loved the music and the food. “Everyone is having so much fun. The food is also really great.” Her family is from Nicaragua and so she ate traditional items from that food tent. It was the deserts from Brazil that caught her fancy. She had samples of brigadeiro (chocolate truffle), bolo (a cake), and acai (a dish made with frozen and mashed fruit and cream).

Whether it was the food, the music, the dancing, or the joy of being around so many happy people, the Hispanic Festival was a success by any measure.

The proceeds of the Hispanic Festival go to support the various outreach efforts of St. Jude Parish, including a food pantry and other programs which help families in need throughout the year, as well as supporting the construction of a new Parish church.

Parish promotes “Walking With Moms in Need”

Posted on November 18, 2025 by Bob Reddy

The Our Lady of Lourdes Parish Venice Diocesan Council of Catholic Women (VDCCW) celebrated life with a baby shower on Nov. 5, 2025. The shower was held to benefit local pregnancy resource centers as part of the Parish “Walking With Moms in Need” outreach.

Participants in the Our Lady of Lourdes baby shower were encouraged to bring baby supplies, including diapers and blankets. Pregnancy Solutions new CEO Melissa Gordon spoke on the different programs available at their centers. Celia Kane, Program Director at Our Mother’s House of Catholic Charities, was grateful for the donations to help empower single mothers and children.

Our Mother’s House provides transitional housing, education and support to single mothers and their preschool-age children, the only such program in the area. Often, these women have nowhere else to turn, and the program offers not only a temporary solution but a path forward.

“Walking with Moms in Need” is a nationwide program established in 2020 by the U.S. Bishops and operates at the Parish level to accompany pregnant and parenting mothers in need. The Diocese of Venice is an active participant in this outreach which 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 resources in English and Spanish on how you can Walk with a Mom in Need, visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/offices/offices-departments/respect-life/walking-with-moms-in-need/.

There are 22 Pregnancy Help Centers and six residential maternity and after-birth homes within the Diocese, standing ready to help. Importantly, there are many financial and volunteering opportunities available to support these Pregnancy Help Centers.

For decades, the Diocese of Venice has supported these Pregnancy Help Centers and will continue to do so. Our Mother’s House of Catholic Charities in Venice is one of the programs in the Diocese that supports single mothers and their children, providing not just housing and material needs, but valuable counseling and education.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane stresses how the Church has built a Culture of Life and how we must all stand as a voice for the voiceless – the unborn. It is through the “Walking with Moms in Need” program that Parishes are to be “Islands of Mercy” in a sea of indifference and a field hospital for those in search of support.

Bishop Dewane extends an invitation for the faithful to join in the “Walking with Moms in Need” program “guided by the Holy Spirit, let us offer Christ’s presence and love to mothers in their time of need through our faithful service and support.”

A Prayer for Pregnant Mothers

O Blessed Mother, you received the good news of the Incarnation of Christ, your Son, with faith and trust. Grant your protection to all pregnant mothers facing difficulties.

Guide us as we strive to make our Parish communities places of welcome and assistance for mothers in need. Help us to become instruments of God’s love and compassion.

Mary, Mother of the Church, graciously help us to build a culture of life and a civilization of love, together with all people of good will, to the praise and glory of God, the Creator and lover of life. Amen.

News briefs for the week of November 14, 2025

Posted on November 18, 2025November 18, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Cardinal Mooney swimmer medals at States

Sofia Krajewski, a swimmer for Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School in Sarasota, earned medals in two events at the Florida High School Athletic Association 1A State Championship on Nov. 8, 2025, in Ocala. Sofia finished 6^th in the 100 backstroke, and 7^th in the individual medley. Well done Sofia!

Eagle Run supports Bradenton Catholic school

St. Joseph Catholic School in Bradenton hosted its annual Eagle Run Nov. 7, 2025. This was a fundraising event that reached its goal of $40,000. Students, faculty and even Father Rafal Liginza, Pastor of St. Joseph Parish, took part. Each classroom had banners made for their running teams. The run took everyone in laps around the school. The Knights of Columbus provided a hot dog lunch, with Italian ices offered as a refreshing treat afterwards.

School’s garden harvest makes for blessed meal

The second-grade students at St. Martha Catholic School in Sarasota have been in charge of growing a variety of vegetables in the school hydroponic garden. The hard worked paid off with the “Garden to Table Dinner” Nov. 6, 2025. It was a fantastic evening, with nearly 300 students, families and friends enjoying a delicious meal, the beautiful gardens and much more! Well done second grade gardeners and to all who made the evening special.

Vocations promoted at Fort Myers Catholic high school

Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers welcomed special guests to their campus the week of Nov. 3-7, 2025, in recognition of National Vocations Awareness Week. Father Alex Pince, Diocese of Venice Vocations Director, and three religious women of the Servant Sisters of the Virgin of Matara, based out of St. Michael Parish in Wauchula, shared their experiences and reflections on the call to serve Christ and His Church. Each offered powerful insights into discovering and living out one’s vocation. National Vocations Awareness Week reminds us that Christ calls each of us to follow Him in unique ways – through faith, service, and the pursuit of our true purpose.

Marriage Prep retreat held in Venice

Marriage Preparation Retreats are required by the Diocese of Venice for those couples preparing for Sacramental Marriage in the Catholic Church. To help facilitate this requirement, the Diocese of Venice Office of Evangelization hosts retreats in English and Spanish at different times throughout the year. The most recent retreat took place Nov. 8, 2025, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice. There were 50 couples in attendance. To see the Schedule for 2026 Marriage Prep Days of Reflection, people can go to: https://dioceseofvenice.org/sacraments/marriage/marriageprep/.

Diocesan priest participates in Jubilee of the World of Education

During the 2025 Jubilee Year, the Vatican hosted a Jubilee of the World of Education from Oct. 27 to Nov. 1, 2025. Among those participating was Father Franckel Fils Aime, a priest of the Diocese of Venice who is studying in Rome. “It was a great opportunity for each one of the students and educators to listen to the Pope Leo XIV, who encouraged them to go deeper in their studies, teaching and then to make their knowledge a way of services for the Church and others,” Father Fils Aime said

WARNING – Text/Email Scam Alert

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. The scam often claims that the priest, Bishop, or staff member is in need of gift cards or money to aid a sick child, relative, or parishioner. The message then asks the person to purchase gift cards/money orders and then to text/email the redemption code and PIN number. 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 for how to make donations and participate in the life of the Diocese, Parish, or school. If you receive such a scam text or email, please do not respond, and immediately contact the Diocese, Parish, or school directly!

Ignatian Preached Retreat in November

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 Ignatian 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.

Faith & Wine in Lee County Dec. 4

***Faith & Ale Lee County Dec. 11

Faith & Ale, a Catholic Men’s Apostolate in Southwest Florida, offers monthly gatherings of Catholic men promote fellowship and growth in faith, every month between October and April. The next meeting is Dec. 11, 2025, at Church of the Resurrection Parish, 8121 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers. The guest speaker is Tom Shillue, a FOX News panelist and comedian. The talk will focus on his book regarding fatherhood where “modernizes the lessons of his parents, fathering his own daughters in today’s modern world.” Tickets are $10. Doors open at 6 p.m. Register at https://faithandale.com. For more information, email faithandalefortmyers@gmail.com.

Advent Retreat at OLPH

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice, is hosting an Advent Retreat: Contemplative Prayer and the Spiritual Journey, from 5 p.m., Dec. 12, through 1 p.m. Dec. 14, 2025. The retreat will be led by Father Murchadh O’Madagain, Pastor of St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Fort Myers, a Doctor of Spiritual Theology, and author of several books. This retreat looks at the spiritual journey, inviting all into a quiet, transformative form of prayer rooted in the Christian tradition—a way of consenting to God’s presence and action within. Through guided conferences, shared silence, and spiritual reflection, you’ll explore how to enter deep interior stillness, following centuries of tradition in the Catholic Church. It is a perfect way to prepare to welcome our Savior at Christmas! Register at olph-retreat.org.

***Bishop to speak at Theology on Tap Dec. 18

***Ave Maria Veterans Ball Jan. 10

***Catholic Charismatic Renewal retreat Jan. 10

March for Life, Washington D.C., Jan. 22-23, 2026

***Save the Date! 2026 Butterfly Ball

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. Celebrate the last 30 years and toast to the next 30 at the Butterfly Ball on Jan. 24, 2026, at the St. Thomas More Parish Chelsea Center, 2506 Gulf Gate Drive, Sarasota. Tickets are $2000. The special guest speaker is Father Shawn Monahan, OMV. For more information on how you can support or participate in the celebration, visit the https://www.olph-retreat.org/olph-2026-butterfly-ball.

***2026 Sunshine State Steak Cook-off

Prison Ministry volunteers needed throughout Diocese

Catholic Charities offers Mental Health Counseling Services

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.

2025 Solemnity of All Saints celebrated across Diocese

Posted on November 10, 2025November 10, 2025 by Bob Reddy

The Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Francis of Assisi, St. Joan of Arc, St. Peter the Apostle, and many other holy men and women of God were represented during an All Saints Day Party Nov. 1, 2025, at St. Michael Parish in Wauchula.

Children of all ages – and many adults – dressed as their favorite saint as the Parish celebrated the special Solemnity. The day began with the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.

Afterwards, the field behind the church was transformed into a festival location, with a “trunk or treat,” where the children could receive candy. In addition, a number of games were set up, each having a saint theme to its activities.

Smiles and laughter abounded as everyone had a wonderful time. Sister Maria Nikopoia, SSVM, St. Michael Director of Religious Education, organized the event which offered fun for the whole family. There was a raffle for gift baskets and plenty of food.

By dressing as saints, it was hoped that the children would see the saint as a role model, or an example on how to live a Christ-centered life.

Newest Saint statue dedicated

The All Saints Day Mass at St. Peter the Apostle Parish in Naples included the blessing and dedication of a statue of the Church’s newest saint, St. Carlo Acutis, the first millennial saint, who serves as a model of holiness for today’s generation, who was canonized on Sept. 7 in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican by Pope Leo XIV.

Father David Portorreal, Parish Administrator, presided over the blessing, emphasizing St. Carlo’s quote, “To always be close to Jesus, that’s my life plan.”

After the Gospel, Father Portorreal observed the noise surrounding the proclamation of the Word of God, from car alarms to passing traffic and car radios. He highlighted the challenge of hearing and meditating on the Word of God amidst the world’s noise. However, saints of all ages demonstrate the ability to focus on God’s Word, remain undistracted by life’s distractions, and fulfill God’s will.

Sergio Angel-Riano, St. Peter’s Youth and Young Adult Minister, said, “As Christ’s faithful, we all have a core vocation to holiness. Is it possible that through the constant buzz of life, there can be someone who sees through the fog of this world and comes face-to-face with the face of the suffering Christ? The Christ of faith? The Christ of hope? The Christ of love? Well, if there’s anyone who saw to it that his life would embody that message, it is the young saint who lived his life for Christ in all that he did.”

Special gratitude was given to Father Gerard “G” Critch, the Pastor of the Parish who is on medical leave, the Community of Catholic Women, and all the donors who made the statue acquisition possible. All are welcome to visit the statue. It can be found in the Parish’s Prayer Garden between the church and the Spirit Center.

Saints in the schools

Many Diocesan Catholic schools hosted events associated with the Solemnity.

St. John Neumann Catholic High School staff and students in Naples joyfully continued a cherished tradition by welcoming the little ones from neighboring St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School for some fun. The Seton students arrived dressed as saints and angels, marching right into St. John Neumann to collect candy, share smiles, and spread cheer across campus. This beloved annual event is a beautiful reminder of the special bond between the schools and the joy that comes from celebrating together

St. Francis Xavier Catholic School in Fort Myers has a special event, called: “Saints Wax Museum,” when third graders brought faith to life by transforming into saints for the whole school on Nov. 4. Following Mass, they presented information about how their chosen saints were shining examples of courage, kindness, and devotion. The students did an amazing job researching, dressing up, and presenting with confidence and reverence.

At St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral, it was the first graders who dressed as their patron saints and took part in a traditional Saints Parade through the halls of the school as their fellow students cheered them on. The celebration concluded with a special presentation for parents in the cafeteria — a beautiful reminder of faith in action, and forming disciples of Christ.

2025 fall 40 Days for Life prayer campaign ends

Posted on November 10, 2025 by Bob Reddy

All life is sacred! This fact draws hundreds each fall to gather in front of abortion facilities in the Diocese of Venice to pray that unborn children can be saved from the scourge that is abortion.

The 40 Days for Life fall campaign began Sept. 24, 2025, and concluded on Nov. 2, with local efforts taking place in Naples, Sarasota and Fort Myers. 40 Days for Life is an international 40-day campaign that aims to end abortion locally through prayer and fasting, community outreach, and a peaceful all-day vigil in front of abortion mills. This year’s campaign is the biggest effort yet, with prayer vigils in more than 650 cities across the country.

During the 40 days, prayer warriors from Parishes and Diocesan Catholic schools stood faithfully in front of the three Planned Parenthood abortion facilities. One participant in Fort Myers from St. John XXIII Parish said she participated in the prayer vigil for the first time “because we want to save lives.”

The Fort Myers campaign marked its 15^th anniversary with a special gathering on Oct. 30. To mark the occasion, The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass was celebrated by Bishop Frank J. Dewane at Resurrection of Our Lord Parish. This was followed by a prayer vigil in front of the nearby Planned Parenthood abortion facility.

During the Mass, Bishop Dewane thanked all those who stood faithful vigil in front of abortion facilities in Fort Myers, and throughout the Diocese, being a witness for the unborn.

“This is a Mass to celebrate the gift of life, and for the preservation of all life,” the Bishop said. “You and I have a role to play. It is by our presence, and in our voices, that the message of life can be spread. It doesn’t end at the sidewalk. It must happen with conversations in our family, in our neighborhood, in our offices, and in the community. We are all called to be the voice of life in the world.”

At the prayer vigil, more than 150 stood as witnesses for life, including a group from the Bishop Verot Catholic High School Respect Life Club. A group of Bishop Verot students led everyone in a praying of the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary.

Several speakers shared their stories about how abortion has deeply affected their lives. One woman, a mother of four, described how when she became pregnant for a fifth time she was in a bad relationship and unprepared to bring another life into the world. The decision to have an abortion was made in distress and one she has regretted every day since.

“There is still a hole in my heart,” she said. “I have beautiful children and grandchildren now, but the one who isn’t here hurts each day. When I was going to get the abortion, no one was out there to tell me there was another option. All of you here today are the angels seen by the moms, helping them to open their eyes to Christ. That is very powerful.”

At the encouragement of Bishop Dewane, the Diocese of Venice has participated in each 40 Days for Life campaign since 2007, first starting in Sarasota, then to Fort Myers and Naples in later years. Since 40 Days for Life began, 25,795 mothers have chosen life for their children; 275 abortion workers have quit their jobs; and 182 abortion centers where 40 Days for Life vigils have been held, have closed.

Among the babies saved in recent weeks were at least two at the 40 Days location in Sarasota. A closing ceremony took place in Sarasota on Nov. 2, All Souls Day, and included a symbolic Jericho Walk.

The Walk was a representation of what Joshua and the Israelites did to bring down the walls of Jericho, by circling the regional headquarters of Planned Parenthood seven times in silent prayer. The prayers were directed to God to bring down the walls around hearts to end abortion in Sarasota, in Florida and in the U.S.

While the fall 40 Days for Life prayer campaign has ended, the effort to save the unborn from abortion does not end. Prayer warriors are still needed to stand vigil in front of the abortion facilities in the Diocese, specifically on days when abortions are done.

If you are interested in participating, contact Diocesan Respect Life Director Tavia Ames at 941-484-9543, ames@dioceseofvenice.org, or visit www.dioceseofvenice.org/respectlife.