Bob Reddy, Author at Diocese of Venice

Foundation thriving under Bishop’s leadership

Posted on June 26, 2026 by Bob Reddy

Editor’s Note: Michael Morse has been Executive Director of the Catholic Community Foundation of Southwest Florida for the past 10 years. He shares here how Bishop Frank J. Dewane has led the organization to become a thriving Foundation that helps build up the mission of the Church in Southwest Florida.

During the past 10 years, I have had the honor and privilege to serve the Diocese of Venice and Bishop Frank J. Dewane as the Executive Director of the Catholic Community Foundation of Southwest Florida. Throughout this time, I have constantly been amazed at Bishop Dewane’s energy, compassion, vision, and concern for the pastoral care of the faithful within the Diocese of Venice. I also greatly appreciate Bishop Dewane’s great sense of humor and genuine care not only for me and my family, but for all who serve the Church.

It is due to Bishop Dewane’s long-term vision and concern for the Faithful that the Catholic Community Foundation has grown so significantly over the past 10 years. The Bishop encouraged all the Parishes, Catholic schools and entities within the Diocese to not only focus on the needs of today, but to think about the future generations of Catholics who will need to be served long after we are gone. As a result, the number of endowment funds providing long-term support and sustainability to the Parishes, Schools and entities within the Diocese has increased tremendously.

When I look back 10 years to when I interviewed with Bishop Dewane, I really did not know what I was getting into. I can now say that this has been the most rewarding professional experience in my life. The Bishop has been a constant source of support, encouragement, and suggestions. Without his confidence in the Foundation’s Board, staff and mission, we would not be anywhere close to where we are today.

Vision and leadership of Bishop admired by Diocesan Board members

Posted on June 26, 2026June 26, 2026 by Bob Reddy

Editor’s note: Dominick and Rita Cavuoto, Michele Tromble and Janet Beach have each known Bishop Frank J. Dewane for many years. All have served on various Diocesan boards through the years and each considers Bishop Dewane a friend having interacted and worked with him on many occasions through the years. Each were asked to share their experiences in dealing with the Bishop in both formal and informal settings.

Cavuotos

Dominick Cavuoto was serving on the St. Agnes Parish Council in Naples when Bishop Dewane erected the Parish in 2007 – one of the first major actions the Bishop took upon assuming his role.

“My first impression was very positive, and it has never waned,” said Cavuoto, who currently serves on the Board of Director of the Catholic Community Foundation of Southwest Florida Inc. “He was so wonderful and took the time to talk and said, ‘Let’s keep in contact.’ He reached out to us not long afterward. He has been a great Shepherd for the Diocese, but also for our family. He was always warm to us and knew the names of our children and grandchildren. That meant a lot to us and says so much about him.”

Rita Cavuoto, who recently relinquished her role as Chair of the Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice Board of Directors, said her work with Bishop Dewane through the years gave her a glimpse into the “tremendous vision on everything from the small things to the largest projects. He also has a clear vision of how people should be treated – always with dignity. He goes to every event he can. When there has been an emergency, he goes out there and loads cars with food.”

The Cavuoto’s both said they have the utmost respect for Bishop Dewane in how he has a great responsibility in his role as the religious leader of the Diocese, but also as how he handled his role as leader of the operational side of the Diocese as well.

Tromble

Tromble first met Bishop Dewane is 2009 when she and her husband took part in a Diocesan trip to Italy in celebration of the 25th anniversary of the Diocese. That experience showed how the Bishop handled adversity on the trip by helping to fix whatever the problem was, including helping to porter baggage, help people in and out of buses and boats and making sure everyone was comfortable, Tromble said.

“On another trip to the Holy Land, we had the opportunity to have Mass in the Holy Sepulchre, Tromble said. “We were traveling with a young priest in our group and the Bishop allowed him to say this Mass. This was an amazing gift to the other priest. I think Bishop’s joy was so beautiful that the true gift was his.”

Tromble, who served on the Foundation Board for 14 years noted that there are not many surprises with Bishop Dewane, whom she said is always very respectful but also human. Because of their friendship, she credits the Bishop with teaching her “that a small effort turns into an amazing accomplishment. Like planting a seed, the smallest of things, that grows and feeds us all. This is the basis of our faith to care for all with dignity. I can never thank him enough.”

Beach

Beach first met Bishop Dewane shortly after he was ordained as a Bishop while she was on the Parish Council of Epiphany Cathedral in Venice. They developed a friendship through the years to where she too was asked and served 14 years on the Catholic Community Foundation Board, ultimately serving as Director for a term.

“He transformed the Foundation into something that now makes a real impact on the Diocese from the many scholarships we offer, to migrant care grants and much more,” Beach said. “That would never have happened without the direction and tenacity of Bishop Dewane.”

Beach, Tromble and the Cavuotos also explained how they each witnessed Bishop Dewane use his leadership and interpersonal skills and sheer will to help build up Catholic Charities, the Foundation, Parishes and Catholic schools to each now thrive in ways that were deemed unimaginable in 2007.

True impressions

“What he has done for the Diocese is amazing,” Beach said. “He has given it his all.”

Tromble said Bishop Dewane’s passion “is to care for those who need it most. He not only supports this cause, he looks far beyond. He has created a foundation of support to sustain the care of those in need. That is his legacy.”

The Cavuotos noted many never get to see the social and friendly side of Bishop Dewane. “When you work with him on a lot of committees you grow to see the full depth of Bishop Dewane,” Dominick said. “We have been blessed to count him as a true friend of our family.”

Priest, Bishop connected through canon law

Posted on June 26, 2026 by Bob Reddy

Editor’s Note: Father Joseph Waters is the Judicial Vicar of the Diocese of Venice. He shares his thoughts on Bishop Frank J. Dewane, who is also a canon lawyer.

I first met Bishop Frank Dewane in 1984 when we were students together at the Pontifical North American College in Rome. Our rooms were located on the same hallway, and we became friends. When Bishop Dewane returned to Florida as Bishop of Venice, we naturally reconnected. Shortly thereafter, he sought my assistance with several canonical matters, and I began traveling to Venice regularly.

In 2015, I began assisting the Diocese of Venice in a more permanent capacity by serving as Judicial Vicar, a position that had become vacant. Since that time, I have spent two days each week in Venice, leading the Marriage Tribunal and assisting with a variety of canonical matters.

Over these 11 years as Judicial Vicar, Bishop Dewane and I have worked closely together. During that time, I have come to value not only his friendship and mentorship, but also his remarkable pastoral leadership. As a Successor of the Apostles, he has demonstrated a profound love for the Church and a deep commitment to the pastoral care of God’s people. I remain grateful for the confidence and trust he has placed in me and for the opportunity to serve alongside him. Through our shared work, our friendship has grown stronger.

During his years as Ordinary of the Diocese of Venice, Bishop Dewane has faced significant physical challenges, including major surgeries and lengthy periods of recovery. Throughout those trials, he has shown extraordinary courage, resilience, and fidelity to his apostolic responsibilities. His unwavering commitment to his ministry during difficult times has been a powerful witness to his love for Christ and Holy Mother Church.

I will forever treasure these years of collaboration and friendship. The work was not always easy and often required me to stretch both my canonical expertise and pastoral sensitivity. Yet it has been a privilege and a joy to accompany Bishop Dewane in his service to the Church as Bishop of Venice.

As he enters retirement, I offer him my heartfelt gratitude, prayerful best wishes, and the assurance of my continued prayers. May this new chapter of his priestly and episcopal ministry be filled with peace, renewed strength, and many blessings from the Lord whom he has served so faithfully.

Growing up on a farm influenced Bishop’s future

Posted on June 26, 2026June 26, 2026 by Bob Reddy

Editor’s note: This article, written by Heather Felton, appeared in the July 21, 2006, Special Welcome edition of The Florida Catholic. The story covers Bishop Dewane’s life prior to becoming the Bishop of the Diocese of Venice.

Heather Felton, Florida Catholic

While the Wisconsin-born man soon to become coadjutor bishop of the Diocese of Venice has traveled to many exciting places, Bishop-designate Frank J. Dewane has always remained rooted in the appreciation for life, creatures and the many God-given gifts instilled in him by his parents.

Bishop-designate Dewane came from what is typically called “humble beginnings,” growing up on a dairy farm with cows, chickens, an occasional pig, and dogs and cats. His Irish-Catholic background made the local parish the center of the community, he said.

“Everything I learned growing up, it’s in that context of the boy on the farm who went to St. James, Cooperstown, to church,” he said. “We went to stations during Lent, we went to the rosary during May and October and the May crowning and the Feast of St. Isadore, the patron of farmers, for the big procession. This was just life; that was it.”

His life path led him through a career first with NBC in Moscow and a PepsiCo affiliate in New York City, before he embarked on his priestly vocation that took him even further from his Wisconsin roots. He was carried briefly to New York and the United Nations before being whisked away again, this time to Rome, first in the service of Pope John Paul II and then Pope Benedict XVI, carrying the Vatican’s messages of social justice and peace to conferences and international conventions across the globe.

But through all his travels and vast experiences, Bishop-designate Dewane has retained the basic lessons he learned in his childhood and these, he said, have not only helped mold him into the man he is today, these childhood experiences provide the basis for much of his recent work in peace and justice.

A student of the Soviet situation

Although his faith life was strong growing up, the call to priesthood wasn’t at the top of the career list for Bishop-designate Dewane as he embarked on his college years. Instead, his fascination lay with Russia. Therefore, during his junior year in college in 1971, he joined a study tour of the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe.

“I had always read things about Russia, communism and the Soviet Union. As a child who grew up in the ’60s and the Cold War and heard things about them, I developed an interest and went there.”

He had the opportunity to return during his senior year and was hooked, choosing to focus his graduate work on Soviet area studies. An understanding but realistic professor convinced him that, in order to have a career outside academia, he would be better off with a different major while keeping the Soviet studies as an interest. Therefore, he earned his master’s degree in international administration and, as soon as he was able, found a position in Moscow, first with a small consulting firm and later with NBC.

“It was, for me, a fantastic period in my life. It was most enjoyable to meet people who were different than you, who had a different perspective,” he said. “They weren’t the miserable people who wanted to kill all the Americans. They were just like we were and they wanted the best for their children and they wondered why we wanted to attack them. And I thought, ‘We don’t want to attack you. It’s you who’s going to attack us.’ And you suddenly realize, its kind of all in the eyes of the beholder here,” he said.

“For me it was a spiritual time, also,” he said. “It’s a growing up, it’s a maturing, it’s a developing of interests different from where you come from.”

Bishop-designate Dewane stayed in Moscow until shortly before what was supposed to be the airing of the 1980 Olympics with NBC. That all changed with the invasion of Afghanistan and the Olympic boycott that changed the scope of his job.

A ‘late’ vocation

Bishop-designate Dewane said he had, for some time, thought about pursuing a religious vocation.

“I thought it would be nice to be a priest, but I always thought there was something more interesting that I had to do first,” he said. “But the idea of being a priest kept coming back. Those other things were not more interesting or satisfying.”

While in Russia, Bishop-designate Dewane told himself that it was time to make the decision. He would go back to the United States, get a job and decide. He was now about 30 years old.

He moved to New York City where he took a job with a subsidiary of PepsiCo while he decided if he was going to enter seminary.

“I guess you could say I was collecting reasons not to become a priest,” he said. “I was getting older and I had a job and I had a nice apartment and my income was fine, so at some point I thought, ‘Frank, you’ve just got to decide to decide.’ And that’s what I did when I came home from Russia — I decided to decide.”

Therese Mauch worked for Bishop-designate Dewane as a sales coordinator during his time at the PepsiCo subsidiary. It was 1982 and he was her first boss out of college, she said.

“It was a great experience,” she said. “He set high standards for himself and high standards for everybody else.”

Because Mauch is also Catholic, she said they frequently talked about their faith and what was going on in the church.

“Was I surprised he left to be a priest? No, not really,” she said. “It was a very big change from what he was doing, but on the other hand, he always discussed his faith and it was always something he was very strong about, even in New York City, and this was New York City in the ‘80s.”

Mauch said she was thrilled to hear that he was about to celebrate his episcopal ordination.

“I’m sure he’s going to be a terrific bishop and I’m not surprised he is on his way to becoming a bishop,” she said.

He is someone who has a great education and is interested in many things, she said, so he is able to talk to people on a variety of levels.

“He can make a difference,” she said, “and he can make a difference for the Catholic Church.”

It took him, he said, nearly three years — during which time he worked and socialized and prayed — to make the decision that he was going to leave it all behind.

“I never had any qualms and that’s the goodness of the Lord to us all,” he said of his decision. “I never looked back, saying, ‘Oh, I shouldn’t have done this’ or ‘I wish I had some more income,’ or something like that. It was all just fine.”

He had, of course, thought about getting married during his discernment process.

“If you talk to a lot of priests, the fact that they’re priests does not mean that they didn’t want to marry,” he said. “I think sometimes our society today is a little bit, ‘I want to do everything. I want to go to the moon.’ You choose and you move on in your life.”

Globe-trotting again

Bishop-designate Dewane was ordained a priest of the Green Bay Diocese July 16, 1988, by then-Bishop Adam Maida and was settled into parish life at Ss. Peter and Paul Parish in Green Bay. The parish had both a school and a home for the ambulatory elderly where he assisted. Bishop-designate Dewane also assisted at the diocesan Tribunal.

In 1991, however, the then-Bishop Robert Banks told him that he was requested to go to the New York to serve as a member of the permanent observer mission of the Holy See to the United Nations.

Oscar De Rojas of the United Nations has known Bishop-designate Dewane for over 20 years, he said. They first met when Bishop-designate Dewane was a layman living in New York and De Rojas was a diplomat for Venezuela. They then rekindled their friendship when Bishop-designate Dewane returned to New York as part of the Vatican delegation to the United Nations for the Holy See. De Rojas was working then for the United Nations. The pair covered many of the same issues.

“He was a very well-liked person by everyone,” De Rojas said. There are some in the diplomatic community who don’t feel comfortable working with the Vatican, he said, or may feel squeamish about approaching whoever sits at the seat that says “Holy See,” “but Msgr. Frank always found a way to make himself liked and respected by everyone, and not only by people who were Christian, but even by people who were not religious in anyway.”

He had a talent, De Rojas said, for working for the compromise in a situation that would not compromise the issue.

“I think he won a lot of friends for the Holy See here at the United Nations by his presence,” he said.

After five years there, Bishop-designate Dewane was transferred to Rome where he served as an official of the Pontifical Council Cor Unum from 1995 to March of 2001, which carries out many of the charitable works of the Holy Father, including work with the U.S. agencies of Catholic Relief Services and Catholic Charities.

From Cor Unum, Bishop-designate Dewane moved on to his most recent post as undersecretary of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace. The primary responsibility of the council is to promote justice, peace, development and human rights.

His work for the Vatican has taken him to international conferences and meetings all over the world, including Brazil, Egypt, China, Denmark, Turkey, South Africa, Mexico and Japan, dealing with water issues, the environment, human rights and war and peace issues.

“Somebody said to me, ‘Don’t you find it really tough to do this?’ And I said, ‘No, it’s a natural.’ Oh yes, sometimes it’s unpleasant and difficult,” he said, “but it was a natural in that life’s important and people wanted to take life or end life (in cases such as abortion or euthanasia). … It’s the Lord who determines these. We don’t have that right.”

It may seem a long way to go from the roots of the Wisconsin farm boy, but really, he said, the roots are still firmly planted where they always have been.

The gardener

When he arrived in Rome, Bishop-designate Dewane said there was a large terrace area outside his apartment with nothing on it, but he worked hard to change that.

“Now it’s something like a jungle,” he said. “I just enjoyed it immensely. I hope to continue doing some of that in Venice. It’s my therapy. It’s just good for me.”

Growing up, he said, he did a lot of gardening, although more with vegetables then, unlike the flowers he tends now.

“I enjoy getting out and growing things. It’s kind of a free gift from God. You plant something, give it some water and air and it grows,” he said. “On a farm, you learn a tremendous appreciation for life and the cycles of life” as well as the economic aspects that are involved with animals being born and dying.

“But also the appreciation for life, all creatures, the gift that God gives and the beauty of it – whether its in plants, flowers or animals, and then the supreme gift, the human being and the beauty that is in each person.”

It is that appreciation for all life that carries over into all of the work he does, whether it was facing down U.N. diplomats over the best uses of the environment or discussing where the spiritual needs of workers should be considered with the World Trade Organization.

What the future holds

With his episcopal ordination as coadjutor bishop Tuesday, July 25, said Bishop John J. Nevins, Bishop-designate Dewane will be appointed a vicar general of the Venice Diocese.

“Bishop-designate Dewane will familiarize himself with the workings of the diocese, visiting parishes and schools, attending meetings and getting to know the Catholic faithful of the Diocese of Venice,” he said.

Then, at Bishop Nevins’ retirement in January 2007, Bishop Dewane will be the second bishop of Venice in Florida.

When that time comes, Bishop-designate Dewane hopes that his episcopal motto, “Iustitia Pax Gaudium” (Justice, Peace, Joy), reflects his commitment to promote issues of peace and justice in the diocese.

Bishop Nevins said he has strong faith in his soon-to-be coadjutor and future successor.

“Bishop-designate Dewane is very much a man of faith and justice. Formed by his parents and his Catholic community as a child in the farmland of Wisconsin, and seasoned in doing the good works of the Holy Father in the Pontifical Councils Cor Unum and Justice and Peace, Bishop-designate Dewane has a deep respect for the family and its needs,” he said. “He also has an understanding of the needs of the peace and justice issues currently taking place within our diocese, such as those facing immigrants, farmworkers and their families, the elderly, the incarcerated and the environment.”

Bishop-designate Dewane said his priorities do include the diocese’s considerable elderly population, the youth, the family and the migrant workers and their families.

“Certainly it’s a diocese that has an elderly population, so any pastor in this diocese has to have the aging population as a priority,” he said. “And always the migrant workers – and their families, because we can’t treat that entity separately. Sometimes they’re traveling with them, sometimes they’re not.”

He also plans to be aware of issues facing those in the prison system, as well, although he knows that the diocese has an active prison ministry.

“It’s a population that can get forgotten and we need to be attentive to that,” he said.

“‘To those who have been given (much), much will be asked,’ and now we need to respond to that. And that’s just not about money,” he said. “That’s about talents; that’s about loving your brothers and sisters really, even when you don’t know them.”

His future episcopacy won’t be without its challenges. Among them, he said, will be future vocations.

“The people of the Diocese of Venice, God’s people in Venice, need priests,” he said. “It’s not about just the bishop needing priests or priests needing other priests. The people of God in the Diocese of Venice need priests and it is they who need to respond, to have to share responsibility for the question of vocations. It’s something that happens together.”

Meanwhile, he said, he will spent a lot of time visiting parishes and schools, getting to know the diocese physically, as well as meeting the people and the priests in their own parishes. He said he plans to go to many events to which he is invited and even some to which he is not invited.

“I don’t want to interfere in a school board or a pastor running his parish, but just to be available and to go out to the social centers the diocese has,” he said. “I think Bishop Nevins was very astute and very insightful in setting the schools that you see, the social centers that you see, the outreach that exists. It’s good and needs to continue. And we can always build on things, too.”

Bishop-designate Dewane says he believes that, in the model of society today, consultation has to be part of most decisions.

If a decision affects, for example, a school, he wants to hear what the parents, staff and students have to say about it and to be told how they feel about the issue, their experience and their visions for the future as to where the issue should go.

It is important to add, however, that there is a difference between consultation and decision-making, he said.

“They are two totally different processes. One precedes the other,” he said. “I have the obligation to listen, but I have the right and the responsibility to make the decision in the end and then we must move forward as church.”

As the Venice Diocese moves forward, Bishop-designate Dewane will carry on the good works of Bishop Nevins, working closely with the priests to aid the diocese as it continues to grow. It is with a joyful heart that he undertakes his newest ministry, once again planting roots and helping the faith to grow.

Newly appointed Bishop returns to Diocese

Posted on June 22, 2026 by Bob Reddy

Ordination/installation key information

The Ordination and Installation Mass of Bishop Emilio Biosca Agüero, O.F.M. Cap., will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, July 11, at St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers. Out of necessity, due to high demand and capacity constraints, this event is by Invitation Only. Parishioners are encouraged to join us in prayer, via livestream. Both the Ordination Mass on July 11 and the Solemn Vespers at 5 p.m., Friday, July 10, will be livestreamed via the Diocesan website at https://dioceseofvenice.org/livestream/, or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/DioceseofVenice. Join us in prayer as we welcome Bishop Emilio to the Diocese of Venice!

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Bishop-elect Emilio Biosca Agüero, O.F.M. Cap., returned to the Diocese of Venice for the week of June 15-20, 2026, ahead of his July 11 Apostolic Ordination and Installation as the third Bishop of the Diocese.

During his time in Venice, the Bishop-elect became better acquainted with the Diocese through a series of meetings with Bishop Frank J. Dewane, Diocesan Chancellor Volodymyr Smeryk, and many other key Diocesan leaders. The Bishop-elect was only in the Diocese of Venice for a few days when his appointment was announced on May 13.

A key aspect of the new Bishop’s visit was the opportunity to have meetings with priests in the four Deaneries (regions) of the Diocese. These meetings allowed many Diocesan priests to meet Bishop Biosca in an informal setting where both sides learned more about each other. Additional meetings took place with religious men and women, Deacons, as well as a visit to Guadalupe Social Services of Catholic Charities in Immokalee.

Bishop Biosca is making an effort to learn about how the Diocese functions. The new Bishop is especially interested in learning the pastoral needs of the different Parishes as well as what pressing issues will demand his attention as soon as he takes over as shepherd of the Diocese in July.

When not on the road meeting priests, the new Bishop was able to begin to move into his residence in Venice. He also stood for his formal portrait and took part in interviews, in both English and Spanish, in anticipation of his coming ordination, in an effort to help the faithful of the Diocese get to know him.

Welcome, Bishop Emilio!

2026 Catholic Charities Summertime appeal is here

Posted on June 22, 2026June 22, 2026 by Bob Reddy

Every day, Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice, Inc., serves the most vulnerable population by feeding, housing, empowering, and encouraging those in need.

Now, you can help Catholic Charities by donating to the annual “Summertime and the Giving is Easy” appeal.

The Summertime appeal gets back to the basics by reminding the generous faithful about key areas where Catholic Charities assists people throughout the 10-county Diocese of Venice region. Many people live without adequate food, shelter, education or support. Catholic Charities offers people in need in Southwest Florida the help that brings about real change in their lives and provides hope for the future.

Each year Catholic Charities serves more than 100,000 individuals and families regardless of race, nationality or creed, providing a wide range of services at 21 locations throughout the 10-county Diocese of Venice. The support of the faithful allowed Catholic Charities to meet the continued demand for aid following the devastation of two hurricanes in 2024. Catholic Charities works hard to make a difference. A total of 93 cents of each dollar donated to Catholic Charities goes directly to more than 20 programs and services which ranks the charity among the most efficient in the country.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane said the support of Catholic Charities by the faithful of Southwest Florida is inspirational and crucial to ensuring “our brothers and sisters in Christ continue to receive the help and support they need. Please remember that every number represents a child, family or individual who relies on the support of Catholic Charities to get through a crisis. Catholic Charities does a tremendous job in providing programs that not only help in a crisis but assist in improving daily the lives of those they reach. Your support is appreciated and critical!”

Christopher M. Root, Chief Executive Officer of Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice Inc., said every contribution to the Summer Giving Appeal, no matter the size, becomes a blessing to someone facing hardship and a reflection of God’s love in action.

“For many of our neighbors across Southwest Florida, summer can bring increased hardship – children without reliable meals when school is out, families struggling to make ends meet with increased utility bills, and vulnerable individuals searching for hope during difficult times,” Root said. “At Catholic Charities, our mission is rooted in the Gospel, and is a call to love and serve one another with compassion and dignity. Your support for the Summertime appeal will help provide hope and critical support to thousands of individuals and families across Southwest Florida.

“From food and housing assistance to help with utilities, medications, counseling, and other essential services, your generosity allows Catholic Charities to continue answering the call for those most in need,” Root said. “Together, we can bring compassion, stability, and hope to our communities.”

Whether your passion is education, food security for children and families, preventing homelessness, or helping the vulnerable, please consider providing your support to the “Summertime and the Giving is Easy” appeal knowing your contribution will reach those in need.

For the purposes of better serving the needy, Catholic Charities hs divided into four regions, with each addressing the unique needs of the people who are seeking assistance.

Region 1 serves Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties with a variety of key services. One of the most impactful programs is Our Mother’s House. Located in Venice, this two-year transitional housing program provides single mothers and their young children with stability, support, and renewed hopes during difficult times. The program gives mothers the opportunity to continue their education, participate in life skills classes, build financial stability through increased savings, and focus on developing careers for long-term success.

Region 2 serves Lee, Hendry and Glades counties. A program that has provided decades of outreach is the Catholic Charities Children’s Center in Fort Myers. The program empowers elementary and middle school students through academic tutoring; mentoring literacy support; social skills development; and comprehensive case management. Programs like this equip young people with the confidence, values, and skills needed to build bright futures. Today, 80% of the Center’s enrolled students go on to pursue higher education, while the remaining 20% continue their path through trade or vocational schools.

Region 3 serves all of Collier County. There is a special focus on Guadalupe Social Services, located in the heart of Immokalee. This program has served individuals and families in need for more than 40 years. Through hot meals, showers, clothing assistance, pantry services, and so much more, the program recognizes the dignity of every person, providing, compassion and hope to those facing difficult circumstances. Each month the program serves hundreds of individuals and families, including providing thousands of hot meals to those in need every month.

Region 4 serves DeSoto, Hardee and Highlands counties. Poverty in DeSoto County is a harsh reality for many families. To address the growing need, at the end of 2025, the Arcadia Food Pantry transitioned its drive-thru pantry into a choice pantry with expanded hours. This allows families to select the foods that best meet their needs. Since then, the pantry has seen a 500% increase in those seeking food assistance and is now serving more than 2,000 individuals each month. With a limited budget, the food pantry relies heavily upon community donations to continue meeting the growing need. In addition to food assistance, the pantry offers a clothing closet and essential items such as diapers, wipes, and hygiene products for families in crisis. Looking ahead, there are plans to expand the services offered in Arcadia by opening a soup kitchen to provide warm meals and additional support to the community.

The “Summertime and the Giving is Easy” campaign is a chance to brighten the future for those throughout the Diocese who come to Catholic Charities for help. Your gift, combined with others, will make a positive impact on our less fortunate brothers and sisters in Christ, and have a lasting, lifelong impact.

How to help

Online – Summertime Giving

By mail – Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., “Summertime and the Giving is Easy,” 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34285

By phone – 941-488-5581

Service locations

Arcadia, Bonita Springs, Bradenton, Clewiston, Fort Myers, Immokalee, Naples, North Port, Port Charlotte, Sarasota, and Venice.

Programs and Services

Affordable housing; after-school programs; anti-human trafficking; behavioral health counseling; case management services; clothing distribution, counseling services; disaster response and recovery; career development and empowerment; emergency shelter; farm worker housing; financial assistance; food pantries; supplement assistance program (SNAP); housing for vulnerable populations; homeless prevention; housing for homeless families; immigration services; infant/toddler supplies; rapid-rehousing; residential programs for mothers and children; senior housing; senior services; soup kitchen; summer youth program; transitional housing; veterans services; and youth mentoring program.

Making your donations count

$10,000 – helps maintain five transitional houses for homeless families on their journey to self-sufficiency;

$6,500 – provides a notebook computer for 10 children;

$3,000 – provides a senior with rent for four months;

$2,500 – helps 10 children to attend summer camp;

$1,600 – purchases a pallet of canned goods, providing 100 families with essentials;

$1,000 – keeps the lights on for four families;

$500 – provides groceries to a family of four for two weeks;

$250 – provides a new twin mattress and bedding for a child;

$120 – provides one counseling session for an individual in need, helping begin their journey towards healing and hope;

$75 – feeds a family of four for one week from a food pantry;

$50 – buys diapers for a mom in need.

Cathedral joins consecration to Most Sacred Heart of Jesus

Posted on June 22, 2026 by Bob Reddy

Epiphany Cathedral Parish in Venice embraced the opportunity to participate in the national consecration to Sacred Heart of Jesus with a Novena of prayer, Mass and consecration on July 11, 2026.

The consecration to the Sacred Heart of Jesus comes from a call from the U.S. Bishops to join the festivities surrounding the United States’ commemoration of the 250^th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence by recognizing and celebrating the contributions of Catholics and the impact of our faith on the history of this country.

The consecration to the Sacred Heart of Jesus signals to God that His goodness is not forgotten and that our country relies on God’s providence for continued flourishing, bringing blessing and hope to a country suffering from wounds of division.

The U.S. Bishops consecrated the United States to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus during the Bishops’ biannual meeting in Orlando on June 11.

That same evening, Epiphany Cathedral celebrated the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass and consecration. Prior to the Mass, the Cathedral offered Exposition and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, and many took the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Msgr. Patrick Dubois, who offered the homily, said the consecration is something that might be viewed as just a simple act, but is not that.

“We bring the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus,” Msgr. Dubois said. “We cannot say our country is perfect, that there are no wounds or divisions, or we have all the answers, because we do not. But because Jesus tells us, “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you, remain in my love (John 15:9).’ Our nation needs that love. We need that love.”

While many are oppressed by burdens, families struggles and the young are searching for meaning, these are wounds that politics, money and success cannot heal.

“Tonight, the Church does not bring our nation to a program or ideology, She brings our nation to a heart – the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus,” Msgr. Dubios said.

The Monsignor asked the faithful to truly look at the Sacred Heart of Jesus and realize what is seen: his love in a wounded, but still burning heart; a heart pierced, but still open; and a heart crowned with thorns, but still offering mercy.

“Jesus reveals to us the deepest desire of His Heart, that is to ‘love one another as I have loved you.’ The Sacred Heart is not simply a symbol of Christ’s love for us, but an invitation for us to love as He loves,” Msgr. Dubois continued. “The renewal of our nation will not begin in government buildings or public debates. It will begin in hearts, transformed by the love of Christ, and it is graced through simple acts of charity, patience and sacrifice. We all need to learn that.

The Mass also included a Litany of the Sacred heart of Jesus, special prayer intentions and a reading of the prayer to the Sacred Heart by all. This was the same prayer with which the U.S. Bishops consecrated the United States to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus earlier the same day in Orlando.

The Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is celebrated on the Friday immediately following the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi), which the Church incorporated in the Liturgical Calendar in response to the mystical visions experienced by St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, in Paray-le-Monial, France, between 1673 and 1675. However, the foundational devotion of meditating on the wounded Heart of Christ was born at the foot of the Cross through the divinely inspired love which the saints bore from then on to the Sacred Passion of the Crucified and Pierced Christ. Later, the early Church Fathers and countless saints, such as St. Bernard of Clairvaux, St. Gertrude the Great, St. Bonaventure and St. John Eudes, all encouraged devotion to the Pierced Heart of Jesus. This is why many Popes have also lauded such devotion and encouraged the practice of consecrating themselves, their homes, and even whole nations to the Sacred Heart.

Prayer to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

On the occasion of the U.S. Bishops Consecrating the United States of America to the Sacred Heart of Jesus:

O Most Sacred Heart of Jesus:

You know the longings of our hearts, and you desire that we enjoy friendship with you.

From your pierced side, you have poured out the wellspring of life, for which we thirst.

Your heart burns with a love for all people to return to a right relationship with you.

We celebrate the abundant gifts you have given this nation, founded on the self-evident truths that our Creator has endowed

all people with the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

We make reparation for the offenses against you and against human dignity that have taken place in this nation.

May our hearts be united to yours, so that our families and communities enjoy peace and happiness; may broken

relationships be reconciled, injustices repaired, and the wounds of our land be healed.

May your holy Catholic Church serve as a sign, pointing all people to your infinite love.

O Desire of Nations and Center of History, we ask you to bless these United States of America.

Who live and reign with God the Father

in the unity of the Holy Spirit,

God, for ever and ever.

Amen.

Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us!

Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us!

Life in the Spirit seminar inspires Naples faithful

Posted on June 22, 2026 by Bob Reddy

By Sharon Tolnai, Special to the Florida Catholic

St. William Parish in Naples welcomed more than 200 parishioners and guests on June 13, 2026, for a daylong “Life in the Spirit Seminar.”

The seminar was designed to deepen personal faith and invite a renewed openness to the Holy Spirit. Organized by Cheryl Geary, Director of Adult Faith Formation at St. William, as an inter-Parish event, the seminar blended teaching, discussion groups, music, and prayer into a vibrant spiritual experience.

Participants began the day with a series of presentations by ministry leaders from various Parishes. Margie DeFrancesca, Barbara Rygiel, along with Dr. Ray and Gonette Caparros, each from St. Agnes Parish, offered reflections on recognizing the Holy Spirit’s Presence in daily life and embracing spiritual gifts with courage and humility.

Small-group discussions followed the presentations, giving attendees the chance to share personal experiences, ask questions, and build community. Many described these conversations as one of the most meaningful parts of the day, noting how they helped translate the seminar’s themes into practical steps for spiritual growth.

Dr. Sue Ellen Nolan, Director of Religious Education at St. Ann Parish, added her insights on cultivating a life of ongoing conversion, discipleship, and prepared the group for the prayer service.

The prayer service for a greater outpouring of the Holy Spirit was led by Father George Ratzmann, Pastor of St. William, Father Marco Mascia, Parochial Vicar of St William, Father Antony Lukka, Parochial Vicar of St. John the Evangelist Parish, along with Fathers Binu Joseph and Alan Baldarelli, Parochial Vicars of St. Agnes Parish.

Music filled the room providing a backdrop for moments of reflection as guests were invited to open their hearts to renewal and deeper faith.

Geary expressed gratitude for the strong turnout and the collaboration among neighboring parishes. Many attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose, describing the seminar as both uplifting and transformative—a reminder that the Holy Spirit continues to move powerfully within the Diocese of Venice!

Sharon Tolnai is the Program Coordinator at St. William Parish in Naples. She can be reached at sharon@saintwilliam.org.

News Briefs for the week of June 19, 2026

Posted on June 22, 2026June 22, 2026 by Bob Reddy

Totus Tuus summer entering fourth week

The Diocese of Venice Totus Tuus summer program continues to inspire young people to grow in faith. The week-long program is visiting different Parishes each week and offering day camp for students entering grades 1 – 6, as well as evening camp for middle school and high school students entering grades 7 – 12. Three missionary teams are leading the campers. In the first two weeks, the program has taken place at nine Parishes, with the most recent at St. Agnes Parish, Naples, San Pedro Parish, North Port, St. Michael Parish, Wauchula, and St. Leo the Great Parish, Bonita Springs. Upcoming host Parishes include the following: St. Katharine Drexel Parish, Cape Coral, and Sacred Heart Parish, Bradenton (June 21-26); St. James Parish, Lake Placid, St. Catherine Parish, Sebring, Our Lady of Grace Parish, Avon Park, and Our Lady Queen of Heaven Parish, LaBelle (July 5-10); St. Joseph Parish, Bradenton, and Our Lady of Light Parish (Day Session)/ St. John XXIII Parish, Fort Myers (Evening Session) (July 12-17); Our Lady of the Angels Parish, Lakewood Ranch, and St. Jude Parish, Sarasota (July 19-24). Youth are welcome to attend any of the Totus Tuus camps, but registration is requested ahead of time. To register, please contact the hosting Parish directly. Parish contact information can be found at https://dioceseofvenice.org/find-a-parish/. For more information, contact Andres Prias at prias@dioceseovenice.org, or 941-441-1122.

Teen summer camp in Wauchula brings adventure

Teens from St. Michael Parish in Wauchula were offered many fun and exciting adventures during a “Chasing sunsets and memories at summer camp” the week of June 8-12, 2026. The week began with visits to the Cathedral of St. Jude the Apostle in St. Petersburg as well as the Shrine of St. Michael the Archangel and the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral, both in Tarpon Springs. The adventure continued with bowling and art, then a day of games and mini-golf. On Tuesday, the teens continued the adventure and fun with Bowling and Art. Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocese of Venice Superintendent of Catholic Education, join the group for a visit to the Ringling Museum in Sarasota and then a visit to the beach. The teens were accompanied by the Servant Sisters of the Lord and the Virgin of Matra.

Unlocking the Mystery of the Bible series

Have you ever wanted to read the Bible but didn’t know where to start? St. Agnes Parish, 7775 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples, is hosting an “Unlocking the Mystery of the Bible” series, 6:30 p.m., Wednesdays, from June 24 to Aug. 12, 2026. Each evening will include short and engaging videos, small group discussions, great conversation and a delicious meal. Free childcare will be provided along with dinner. No prior Bible knowledge needed – just come as you are. For more information, please contact Robert Massey at 239-592-1949 ext. 150, or robert@stagnesnaples.org.

Bradenton food pantry seeks food for children on summer vacation

The St. Joseph Food Pantry, 2704 33^rd Ave. W., Bradenton, is seeking food for children on summer vacation through the end of July. Food needed includes but is not limited to: fruit jelly in plastic containers, cereal, granola/breakfast bars, protein bars, raisins, shelf staple milk boxes, mac & cheese, canned vegetables, canned meat, canned tuna, spam, etc. Drop off times at the St. Joseph Food Pantry are from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., and bins are also available in the Parish office during regular daily hours. For more information, please call 941-756-3732.

Summer educational series in Naples

St. William Parish, 750 Seagate Drive, Naples, is hosting a Summer Educational Series beginning at 1 p.m., June 24, 2026, in the Church Hall. The theme for June is “What You Should Know About Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias,” presented by Mark Beland, Co-Chair of the Collier County Dementia Care and Cure Initiative and Community Liaison of the Baker Senior Center. Topics to be covered include: gaining a better understanding of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias; increasing awareness of behavioral symptoms; equip others to communicate effectively with people with dementia; discover local resources available to assist those with dementia, their families, and caregivers; and learn about the risk factors regarding dementia and how to manage them. This event is open to all, and free to attend, and no RSVP is required. For more information, please call 239-330-2267.

Retreat Center open house June 27

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice is inviting the faithful to join them for a day of prayer, rest, renewal, and fellowship for an Open House, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., June 27, 2026, the Feast of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. Come spend time exploring the peaceful grounds, touring the facilities, meeting the team, and learning more about the retreats and programs offered at the Center. Whether you have visited many times or have never been before, the OLPH team would love to welcome you. OLPH is located at 3989 S. Moon Dr., in Venice. Please RSVP by June 20, by calling 941-486-0233.

Independence Day bike and golf cart parade to be held in Ave Maria

The Knights of Columbus Assembly 3862 of Ave Maria Parish in Ave Maria is hosting its 10^th annual “God Bless America: Independence Day Bike and Golf Cart Parade for our Nation’s 250^th Birthday.” The opening ceremony will take place in the Piazza in front of Ave Maria Parish church at 10 a.m. (following 9 a.m. Mass), with the parade, led by fire trucks, immediately following. All are welcome to attend and encouraged to decorate their bicycles, tricycles, golf carts, skateboards, and strollers. The route is approximately 2 miles long, but a shorter route, around the church, is available for younger riders. Light refreshments, including birthday cake for the Nation, will be available at the conclusion of the parade.

The Year of St. Francis

Bishop Frank J. Dewane has designated St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Grove City to serve as a pilgrimage destination for the Diocese of Venice in the extraordinary Jubilee Year of St. Francis, honoring St. Francis of Assisi on the 800th anniversary of his death. All are encouraged to make a pilgrimage to the Parish during this Jubilee Year for a unique experience of encounter, prayer and renewal. The Church and its Poor Clare Adoration Chapel are open to welcome pilgrims every Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and at other times by arrangement. For details, please visit the St. Francis of Assisi Parish website at https://www.sfoachurch.com/jubilee-2025.

Donations needed for Our Mother’s House

Our Mother’s House, a transitional housing program for homeless mom’s with young children operated by Catholic Charities in Venice, is making an appeal for donated cleaning supplies and other items. To learn more about the need, and how to drop off supplies, please call 941-485-6264, or email ckane@ccdov.org, or omh@ccdov.org.

Mental Health Counseling Services

Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice is offering Mental Health Counseling, and Tele-Health Counseling, for adults and children provided by licensed mental health therapists. If you or someone you know is feeling stressed, anxious, depressed, helpless, or overwhelmed, Catholic Charities can help. For more information, please call 239-455-2655 or visit Catholic Charities online

Prison Ministry volunteers needed throughout Diocese

Join the team of Diocesan volunteers who enter county jails and state prisons within the 10-county Diocese of Venice for pastoral outreach, to distribute the Eucharist and facilitate programs. Priests, Deacons, and lay volunteers are encouraged to assist in this ministry. Volunteers will first participate in an orientation program before entering the facility and will shadow experienced volunteers until they feel comfortable. Times and days vary by facility. Please contact Joe Mallof at 224-217-7139 or Bob Hiniker 863-558-0407 to learn where you can fit into this joyful opportunity.

Retreat Center seeks volunteers

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice needs your help; they are looking for volunteers. Help provide a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere for those who come to OLPH seeking transformation in Christ. Areas of need include reception, gardening, dishwashing, and serving meals. Contact the office to sign up at 941-486-0233 or visit www.olph-retreat.org/new-volunteer.

Free Rosary Repair Service

Send your broken rosaries in a padded envelope to Betty and Dick Holden, Free Rosary Repair Service, 7930 Estero Blvd., Unit 502, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931. Rosaries will be repaired and returned within the week of receipt. Donations of old rosaries are also accepted, which will be repaired and sent to missions. Include a note indicating repair or donation. For more details, please call 239-463-3993, 860-595-6370 or holdenbnd@gmail.com.

Private retreats available

The fall schedule of private retreats at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice is posted and has openings for Desert Days, 3, 5, and 7-night individual (directed) retreats. Group retreats are also available: To learn more or to register for a group or private retreat, please visit our website: http://www.olph-retreat.org/individual-retreat-overview.

Celebrating the Real Presence – 2026 Corpus Christi marked with processions

Posted on June 15, 2026June 15, 2026 by Bob Reddy

The Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi) is a tradition that dates backs centuries and is often marked by a unique expression, a Eucharistic Procession. It is a celebration of the Eucharist and the Real Presence of Jesus Christ.

The Eucharist is central to the Church and is fundamental to our Catholic belief and life.

Occurring at Parishes within the Diocese of Venice and throughout the world, these Eucharistic Processions included hymns, prayers, and Scripture readings. The Blessed Sacrament is carried outdoors to show that the Lord is not confined merely to within the four walls of Church.

During his Apostolic visit to Spain, Pope Leo XIV presided over Mass, a procession, and Eucharistic blessing for the solemnity of Corpus Christi in Madrid’s Plaza de Cibeles on June 7, 2026 before a crowd of 1.2 million.

“As I begin my visit to Spain, it is with a heart filled with joy that I preside over this celebration on the Solemnity of Corpus Christi,” the Holy Father said.

Pope Leo said Corpus Christi is “more than just another celebration on the liturgical calendar… It is a way of returning to the heart of the faith to renew our love and fidelity to God.”

The Pope said the Corpus Christi procession is not “an exhibition, a remnant of folklore or a simple display of beauty… It is a profession of faith in the presence of the risen Lord, who is alive and continues to walk among us, who becomes bread to satiate our hunger for life, and visits the recesses of our hearts and history, even those shrouded in darkness.”

Bishop Frank J. Dewane said, “when Jesus Christ ascended into Heaven, leaving His disciples behind, He promised that He would be with them (and us) always, even until the end of the world. This promise was kept not as a symbol but with the True Presence of His Body and Blood in the Holy Eucharist.”

The Corpus Christi procession at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice occurred following the Vigil Mass on June 6. The procession in Venice with Msgr. Patrick Dubois, Cathedral Rector, included placing a consecrated host in the monstrance (a sacred vessel that displays the sacred host to the faithful). After a series of prayers before the Most Holy Eucharist the procession, led by altar servers carrying candles and an incensor, began.

Msgr. Dubois carried the monstrance with the Blessed Sacrament, proceeding out of the church under a canopy, to three temporary altars set up in the parking lot of the Cathedral. Participating in the procession were priests and deacons of the Cathedral, musicians and members of the choir, as well as hundreds of the faithful.

Larger processions took place at many Parishes throughout the Diocese, including Our Lady of Guadalupe in Immokalee, St. Joseph in Bradenton and St. William in Naples.

The Solemnity of Corpus Christi is observed two weeks after Pentecost. The Feast of Pentecost, which took place on May 31 this year, is celebrated 50 days after Easter Sunday, and commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles and other followers of Jesus Christ while they were in Jerusalem, as described in the Acts of the Apostles. Pentecost is recognized as the introduction to the Holy Spirit, and the birth of the Church.

Information from Our Sunday Visitor was used in this article.