Author: Bob Reddy

St. Valentine’s Day blessing for hundreds of couples

Posted on by Bob Reddy

On St. Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14, 2026, Bishop Frank J. Dewane offered blessings to hundreds of couples who serve as witnesses to the definition and relevance of the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony in a modern world.

In celebration of that commitment, each year Bishop Frank J. Dewane invites couples married 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 and 50+ years to a Mass in their honor as witnesses to a beautiful vocation. The first of two such Masses to be held in 2026 was Feb. 14, at St. Leo the Great Parish in Bonita Springs. There were 340 couples present, representing a combined 17,340 years of marriage.

“What a beautiful sight I have before me,” Bishop Dewane said. “You live out the Sacrament of Marriage – day after day, sacrifice after sacrifice – in a time where the very definition is challenged and the relevance questioned. I congratulate each of you here, because of the example you give, in who you are, and the commitment you made by living out the Sacrament. The example is viewed by your children, your grandchildren, your neighbors, and society at large.”

Bishop Dewane explained how younger people often consider marriage as something that is illogical, but he added how love isn’t logical but is an example of the Lord working miracles.

“When you live out your faith – one for the other – it has nothing to do with logic. You live your life together by the graces the Lord gives,” Bishop Dewane said. “It takes effort on part of both in the marriage to make it work and oftentimes it is the instruments of the Lord working miracles here on earth. You, as a couple, are a witness of married life, to the Christian life you chose to live and freely entered.”

The Bishop said Pope Leo XIV described marriage not as an ideal, but that the measure of true love between a man and a woman is a love that is totally faithful and fruitful. That love enables the other to become more. Pope Francis also described married couples as icons, seeing the beauty in the pair that grows by the lives they live by knowing the Lord, and most importantly letting the Lord know them.

The 340 couples present represented 34 Parishes and included 47 couples that have been married 50 years. There were six couples present who were married 70 years or more. The longest marriage by couples present was 75 years, Bud and Janet Phillimore of St. Leo the Great Parish, who celebrate their anniversary on April 7. In addition, seven couples celebrated their anniversary on the day of the Mass.

Bud and Janet Phillimore met at a football game while Bud was attending Loris College in Dubuque, Iowa. Together they raised two children, a son and a daughter. They have four grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. The couple’s advice to young couples starting out is: “Even if you’ve had an argument, never go to sleep without professing your love for each other and your willingness to work the issue out.”

A couple married 53 years from St. Raphael Parish in Lehigh Acres who met while living in the same apartment building in Washington, D.C., said their formula for a successful marriage was compromise, commitment, communications, and compassion.

Steven & Violet Hvasta, of St. William Parish in Naples, who will celebrate 72 years of marriage on June 12, met in high school in New Jersey when he noticed her while practicing football as she was pushing a stroller nearby while babysitting. They have four daughters, 11 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Their key to a successful marriage was “developing the art of compromise.” In addition, Violet said, “God always comes first in our marriage. We pray together every day. We go to church together. It is about letting God be at the center of who we are. We tried to pass that along to our daughters and grandchildren.”

During the Diocesan Mass, the married couples renewed their wedding vows. In addition, each couple was presented a commemorative certificate, signed by the Bishop, for their enduring commitment to marriage.

Following the Mass, lunch was served in the Parish Center and there was the opportunity to have complimentary pictures taken with the Bishop. At the luncheon, many couples remarked about how wonderful it is to have their lasting marriage recognized.

Coordinated by the Diocesan Office of Marriage and Family Life, the Masses are celebrated each year in the northern and southern sections of the Diocese of Venice so as to accommodate the large numbers of couples wishing to attend. The second Mass is at 11 a.m., March 14, at St. Thomas More Parish, 2506 Gulf Gate Drive, Sarasota. A luncheon follows each Mass. If you would like to attend, registration is through the Parishes, but walk-ins are welcome.

2026 Spring 40 Days for Life campaigns open in Sarasota, Fort Myers and Naples

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Prayer warriors are needed to stand up for life during Lent, and can do so by participating in the Spring 40 Days for Life peaceful prayer campaign in Naples, Fort Myers and Sarasota. The prayer campaign opened on Ash Wednesday Feb. 18, 2026, and will continue through Palm Sunday, March 29.

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 Lenten effort yet, with prayer vigils planned in 660 cities. In the Diocese of Venice, there are opportunities to stand and peacefully pray during vigils in the public right-of-way outside Planned Parenthood abortion facilities in Naples, Fort Myers and Sarasota. Thanks to the leadership of Bishop Frank J. Dewane, the Diocese of Venice was one of the earliest to participate in the national campaign which began in 2006.

A kick-off event for Sarasota took place on March 16, at the offices of Community Pregnancy Clinics Inc. The clinic is in the shadow of a Planned Parenthood. Rich Owens, who has led the sidewalk campaign in Sarasota for many years, spoke about the success of the sidewalk prayer campaign with six babies saved in recent months, and at least 124 since 2019.

“Your presence makes a difference, and this year we are trying to go bigger as we pray to seek the closure of the Sarasota Planned Parenthood,” Owens said. The Central Avenue location was once the regional headquarters for Planned Parenthood in the southern half of Florida; those offices are now in West Palm Beach and the Sarasota building is now mostly empty.  “We are trying to follow the recent closing of the flagship Planned Parenthood, the Margaret Sanger facility in Manhattan, as well as one of the largest in the country in Austin, Texas. This den of evil must close. This building is half-empty, so let us make them sell it and leave Sarasota,” Owens said. To encourage the closing, Owens led everyone in two prayers, a Prayer for the Conversion of Planned Parenthood and the Prayer for the Closing of an Abortion Facility.

Also speaking at the Sarasota kickoff event was Jack Prietsch, a sidewalk advocate from Our Lady of the Angels Parish in Lakewood Ranch, who emphasized the importance of presence on the sidewalk in front of abortion facilities. He gave an example of a woman who had been abortion-minded but was unsure if she wanted to go through with killing her unborn child. She told Prietsch she was looking for a “sign from God” to change her mind. The people holding placards and praying for her and her unborn child outside the facility were the “sign” she needed. “These women just want to know someone cares and is praying for them. That is a powerful thing,” Prietsch said.

Karen Mattox, who coordinates the prayer schedules for the Sarasota campaign, said there are several days in the first few weeks of the 40 Days where no one is currently scheduled to stand vigil. While most Parishes do have scheduled days, Mattox explained that there are gaps that need coverage, particularly in the early morning and evening hours. The Sarasota prayer vigil is daily from 7 a.m.- 7 p.m., at 736 Central Ave. If you are interested in standing in prayer for the unborn, please register for an hour or more https://www.40daysforlife.com/en/sarasota.

The Fort Myers prayer vigil is 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday to Saturday, at 6418 Commerce Park Drive. A kickoff rally took place on Ash Wednesday and featured Elise Rose, a longtime pro-life advocate, educator and sidewalk counselor. For more information and to register for this prayer vigil, visit https://www.40daysforlife.com/en/fortmyers.

The Naples prayer vigil is 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday to Saturday, at 1425 Creech Road. A kick-off event took place Feb. 19, with guest speaker Dr. Haywood Robinson, former abortionist and now 40 Days for Life Director of National Affairs and Education, Bryan Kennedy, Chief of Operations for the Florida Citizens Alliance, and Scott Baier, Director of Community Pregnancy Clinics. For more information and to register for this prayer vigil, visit https://www.40daysforlife.com/en/naples.

Since 40 Days for Life began, more than 26,114 mothers have chosen life for their children; 275 abortion workers have quit their jobs; and 184 abortion mills have gone out of business where 40 Days for Life vigils have been held.

To learn more how to support or participate in 40 Days for Life in the Diocese contact Tavia Ames, Diocese of Venice Respect Life Director, at 941-441-1101 or ames@dioceseofvenice.org.

Large group from Venice attend Catholic Days at the Capitol

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Large group from Venice attend Catholic Days at the Capitol

By Karen Barry Schwarz, Special to the Florida Catholic

Catholic Days at the Capitol was a great success (Feb. 10-11, 2026), with a great showing from the Diocese of Venice, all, of course, dressed in red to invoke the power and presence of the Holy Spirit!

The key part of Catholic Days was Feb. 11, where Catholics from across Florida converge on Tallahassee during the Florida legislative session, to bring the light of faith to the public square and promote Catholic values through civic engagement. The day was off to a good start with a breakfast meeting organized by the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops to welcome the group, and to educate attendees about the bills of concern to the state’s bishops, which were: Civil Liability for the Wrongful Death of an Unborn Child; Background Screening and Child Safety; Improving Prison Infrastructure and Conditions.

The Florida Conference staff was then available to answer questions about the bills under discussion. As the meeting wound down and the legislative meetings and sessions were about to begin, the Florida Bishops each led a decade of the Rosary, empowering the group before they set off on their mission to meet with various State House and Senate members. The day came to a close at the 51st Annual Red Mass of the Holy Spirit at the Co-Cathedral of St. Thomas More, with all the Florida Bishops in attendance concelebrating. Bishop Frank J. Dewane was the homilist, and took care to remind all that the true governance and law is that of the Lord.

The group of 50 attending from the Diocese was organized by Tavia Ames, Director of Respect Life, who attended with her three young daughters, all students at Diocesan Catholic schools. The Diocesan group included dozens of Catholic School students from Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers, Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School and St. Martha Catholic School, both in Sarasota.

Members of the Venice Diocesan Council of Catholic Women were in attendance, including President-Elect Karen Veveer, as well as several members of the Knights of Columbus, including longtime Respect Life advocate Art Reilly, who was recently honored with the Diocese’s inaugural Culture of Life Award. Also participating were Sylvia Jimenez, Diocese of Venice Project Rachel Coordinator, Karen Barry Schwarz and Rachel Powers from the Diocese’s Communications Office. In addition, there were several groups of parishioners from Incarnation Parish and St. Martha Parish, both in Sarasota, Corpus Christi Parish in Naples, Our Lady of the Angels Parish in Lakewood Ranch, Our Lady of Mercy Parish in Boca Grande, St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish in Port Charlotte and Epiphany Cathedral in Venice. Father Daniel Scanlan, Parochial Vicar at St. Thomas Moore Parish in Sarasota also attended, celebrating Mass for the group the evening before the event.

News Briefs for the week of February 20, 2026

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Knights donate wheelchairs to Sarasota schools

St. Mary Academy and St. Martha Catholic School in Sarasota received three wheelchairs Feb. 12, 2026, personally delivered by a distinguished delegation of the Knights of Columbus. Located together on Fruitville Road, the two schools welcomed the Knights with enthusiasm and gratitude. The wheelchairs will be used to assist students in reaching the school nurse during medical emergencies, ensuring timely and safe care. Since 2003, the Knights of Columbus have funded and delivered tens of thousands of wheelchairs throughout the United States and around the world. This generous donation reflects the organization’s core mission of charity, unity, and service to those in need. It also highlights the powerful impact that partnerships between community organizations and schools can have on the lives of children.

Students bring history to life

St. Ann Catholic School eighth graders in Naples brought history to life with a Living Museum on Feb. 13, 2026. The students transformed into influential historical figures from the past and present. From presidents and pioneers to saints, scientists, activists, and innovators, each student represented the life, accomplishments, and legacy of their chosen figure. Students put their dedication, creativity, and confidence on display as they shared their research and stood proudly “in character” while guests walked through our museum. History truly came alive in the most engaging and inspiring way.

 

 

 

Project Rachel retreat Feb. 24

For women or men who have been scarred by abortion, the Diocese offers “Project Rachel,” an outreach of the Catholic Church to those who are suffering and in need of healing following an abortion. This program offers help through the sacraments, retreats, and referrals for professional counseling, all confidentially. The next one-day healing retreat will be held Feb. 24, 2026. For more information, or to join, please contact, Sylvia Jimenez, Project Rachel Coordinator, at 941-412-5860 (English and en Español), or project.rachel@dioceseofvenice.org. The Diocese also works with “Support After Abortion,” a national outreach to provide individualized care for those impacted by abortion. For details, visit https://supportafterabortion.com/.

Execution Vigils Feb. 24 and March 3

The execution of Florida inmates by the State of Florida continues at an alarming rate. A record 19 executions took place in Florida in 2025, with the first execution of 2026 taking place on Feb. 10. For each Florida execution, a Prayer Vigil is scheduled at San Pedro Parish Chapel, 14380 Tamiami Trail, North Port. All are welcome and encouraged to attend. The Prayer Vigils begin at 5:30 p.m., last less than an hour and include hymns, a Gospel reading, reflections, intercessions and a praying of the Rosary. A pause takes place at 6 p.m., the time the actual executions take place. Everyone involved in the execution process is prayed for; the doctor administering the execution, the witnesses, the victims and their families, and we pray for a conversion of the condemned, and an end to the death penalty. The next execution Prayer Vigil is Feb. 24, 2026, which will coincide with the scheduled execution of Melvin Trotter, who is scheduled to be the second person executed in Florida this year. Another Vigil will take place March 3, to coincide with the execution of Billy Leon Kearse.

 Liberty Ball for Ave Maria School of Law

The Ave Maria School of Law invites all to attend the Liberty Ball – Celebrating 250 Years of Justice & the American Way, 5:30 p.m., Feb. 24, 2026, Royal Poinciana Golf Club, Naples. The theme is 18th century inspired elegance or black-tie optional. The keynote speaker is Christopher Ruddy, CEO, Newsmax Media. Tickets are $1,000. For more information, contact Jackie Burke at 239-687-5341 or jburk@avemarialaw.edu.

Father Leo “The Cooking Priest” to host retreat in Venice

Epiphany Cathedral, 310 Sarasota St., Venice, is hosting Father Leo Patalinghug, “The Cooking Priest,” for a Parish retreat at 5:30 p.m. on Feb. 25 and 26, 2026. Father Leo is a priest member of a community of consecrated life, Voluntas Dei, and is the founder, host, and director of Plating Grace, an international apostolate to help strengthen families and relationships through God’s gift of a family meal. His is also a best-selling author who established a non-profit organization, The Table Foundation, with the mission to elevate culture and family life, one meal at a time. Come and join us for a memorable two-day event to see the cooking priest connect food and Eucharistic faith! Register at https://giving.parishsoft.com/App/Form/ce070e22-22f5-4c72-b3bc-520fe7922925.

Our Mother’s House Wine Tasting Feb. 26

The Catholic Charities Our Mother’s House Wine Tasting Auction and Dinner Dance is 5:30 p.m., Feb 26, at Plantation Golf & Country Club, 500 Rockley Blvd., Venice. The annual event benefits the mothers and children at Our Mother’s House, a 2-year transitional living program located in the heart of Venice, dedicated to empowering single mothers with a child. Tickets $150. For more information, 941-485-6264 or omhwinetasting@ccdov.org.

Lenten Parish Mission

Father Cedric Pisegna, C.P., an inspirational and motivational speaker and author of 26 books, will be hosting a Lenten Mission 5:30 p.m. nightly from March 1 through March 4, 2026, at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, 1301 Center Road, Venice. All are welcome. Call 941-497-2931 for more information.

Application deadline for Foundation scholarships is March 1

The deadline for entry for college and vocational scholarships for the 2025-2026 academic year from the Catholic Community Foundation of Southwest Florida is 11:59 p.m., Sunday, March 1, 2025. To apply for all available scholarships, visit ccfdioceseofvenice.org. For more information contact Anna Kollmeyer at 941-486-4722 or ccf@dioceseofvenice.org.

Diocesan Lenten Youth Retreats

The Diocese of Venice Youth & Young Adult Ministry is offering opportunities for middle school and high school students to participate in Diocesan Lenten Youth Retreats designed to create a time and place for silence, reflection, and shared experience, allowing young people to step away from the pace and distractions of daily life and re-focus their hearts on God. The high school retreat will be 3 – 8 p.m., March 1, at St. Thomas More Parish, Sarasota. The middle school retreat will be offered 5 – 8:30 p.m., March 3, 2026, at St. Paul Parish, Arcadia. Registration is open at dioceseofvenice.org. The cost is $10 per student.  For further information, please contact Andres Prias at prias@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-441-1122.

Emmaus Experience Women’s Retreat in March

The Epiphany Cathedral Emmaus Retreat Team is hosting an Emmaus Experience Women’s Retreat March 6 to March 8, 2026, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice. Give yourself the gift of time away from distractions of your daily routine to listen to Jesus and the Holy Spirit in an environment of sincere faith, fellowship, and worship. Registration is $305 for a double room, $415 for a private room. Space is limited. The registration deadline is Feb. 16, 2026. Please contact Donna Vodraska at donnavodraska@aol.com or 630-336-0918.

Vocations Awareness Weekend Retreat

Is God calling you, or someone you know, to the priesthood? The Diocese of Venice Vocations Offices is offering a weekend retreat for young men to learn firsthand about the life of a seminarian at St. John Vianney College Seminary in Miami! Open to young men ages 17 and up, the retreat is March 6-8, 2026. Transportation is provided. Contact Lina Johnson to register at johnson@dioceseofvenice.org or call 941-486-4720.

Royal Rummage Sale XVIII March 6-7

The St. Mary, Star of the Sea Parish Women’s Guild presents Royal Rummage Sale XVIII, in the Parish Hall, 4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. The early bird sale is 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., March 6, 2026, and the admission is $5. The regular sale, with free admission, is 9 a.m. – noon, March 7. Don’t miss out on the biggest and best rummage sale on Longboat Key which includes clothing, furniture, art, collectible, jewelry, housewares, linens, toys, electronics, books, and much more.

Venetian Ball March 7 in Bonita Springs

The annual Catholic Charities Venetian Ball is 6 p.m., March 7, 2026, at St. Leo the Great Parish Hall, 28290 Beaumont Road, Bonita Springs. This gala benefits programming and services in Lee, Hendry, and Glades Counties. Tickets are $250, and are available at https://catholiccharitiesdov.org/events. For more information, call 239-342-1620 or email venetianball@ccdov.org.

Monthly Days of Prayer at Retreat Center

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice offers a Monthly Day of Prayer, an opportunity to take time out of your busy and hectic life to focus on God. The next Day of Prayer is March 8 or 11, 2026, and is titled, “Lent Is My Highway to Heaven.” As part of an ongoing series of talks on Heaven, Father Greg Cleveland, OMV, OLPH Spiritual Director, will unpack the mystery of the Beatific Vision as the ultimate fulfillment of human longing. This talk invites you into the beauty, joy, and transformative love of seeing God “face to face,” where faith and reason give way to eternal happiness in Christ. No prior sessions are required – come as you are and be spiritually filled. The day begins at 9:30 a.m. with continental breakfast and includes two conferences, the opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, lunch, and Mass. There is time for adoration, private prayer, or meditation on the beautiful grounds as well. The day concludes at 3:15 p.m. The cost is $45. Register at www.olph-retreat.org/monthly-day-of-prayer

Fort Myers Parish retreat March 10

St. Francis Xavier Parish, 2157 Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers, is hosting a one-night Parish retreat, 6 – 8 p.m., March 10, 2026, featuring Father Leland Thorpe, OMV, of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice. Father Thorpe’s talk is titled: “10 Minutes to Change Your Life: The Examen Prayer of St. Ignatius of Loyola.” Learn how you can be transformed when you apply it to your daily life. There is no cost to attend. Bring family, friends, and neighbors. For more information, please call the Parish office at 239-334-2161.

Matt Talbot Men’s Spiritual Weekend Retreat March 13-15

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice is hosting a Matt Talbot retreat March 13-15, 2026. The retreat is for people of all faiths and is an opportunity for recovering alcoholics to enhance their spirituality and sober way of life. The people who attend these retreats also attend the 12-step program through AA. The Matt Talbot retreat is private and everything is confidential. Save the date for this upcoming retreat. Choose from a private room, or a shared, double occupancy room, or as a commuter (no room).  $385 per retreatant for a private room, $275 per retreatant for a shared, double occupancy room or $195 per commuter. Register at www.olph-retreat.org.

Emerald Ball March 14 in Naples

The annual Catholic Charities Emerald Ball is 5:30 p.m., March 14, 2026, at the Ritz-Carlton Tiburon Golf Resort, 2600 Tiburon Drive, Naples. This event benefits the programs and services in Collier County. Tickets are $500, and are available at https://catholiccharitiesdov.org/events. For more information, call 239-455-2655 or email emeraldball@catholiccharitiesdov.org.

Faith & Wine and Faith & Ale joint event March 19

The annual joint gathering of Faith & Ale and Faith & Wine in Lee County will take place 6 – 8:30 p.m., March 19, 2026, at St. John XXIII Parish, 13060 Palomino Lane, Fort Myers. The guest speakers are Dan and Stephanie Burke. Dan is past president and COO of EWTN, while Stephanie hosts the Divine Intimacy radio show. The talk is titled “Spiritual Warfare and the Discernment of Spirits.” Faith & Wine is 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. Faith & Ale, a Catholic Men’s Apostolate in Southwest Florida that offers monthly gatherings of Catholic men promoting fellowship and growth in faith. Tickets are $25. 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. Register https://faithandale.com/. For more information, email faithandalefortmyers@gmail.com.

Marriage Prep retreats/seminars coming soon

Marriage Preparation Retreats are required by the Diocese of Venice for those couples preparing for Sacramental Marriage in the Catholic Church. The retreat’s purpose is to enable couples to become more aware of the privileges and responsibility of marriage. The next two of many Marriage Retreats in 2026 are March 21, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice, and June 20 at St. John the Evangelist Parish in Naples. Additionally, the Two Become One Marriage Retreat prepares couples 55 and older who are planning for the Sacrament of Marriage or convalidation in the Catholic Church. The next Two Become One Marriage Retreat is May 2, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice. Registration is required for all retreats at https://dioceseofvenice.regfox.com/2026-day-of-reflection-mp-retreat. Couples unable to attend an in-person retreat may contact the Diocesan Marriage Prep office to register for the online version. Please contact Jim Gontis at 941- 486-4754 or gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

CPCI Gala March 28

Join Community Pregnancy Clinics (CPCI) for an evening of hope and inspiration at the “Heart of the Community Gala,” 5 p.m. March 28, 2026, at the Ritz-Carton Tiburon, 2600 Tiburon Drive, Naples. Begin with a cocktail reception and fellowship alongside other dedicated advocates, followed by a delicious dinner, paddle-raise fundraiser, and a powerful keynote address from Matt Walsh, a renowned filmmaker, author, and pro-life voice. The cost is $500 per person. Tickets are available at www.supportcpci.com.

Magnificat breakfast March 28

Be Blessed and Encouraged at the next Magnificat breakfast for women, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., March 28, 2026, at the Crowne Plaza Fort Myers Gulf Coast. The speaker is Kathy Corona, a woman of deep faith who will share her spiritual journey. Join for breakfast, fellowship, and worship to hear her inspiring testimony of Jesus Christ’s love and healing! Reservations can be made online until noon, March 24 at https://magnificatfortmyers.com/order-tickets/. For more information, contact Margaret Mengle, 239-826-7475.

Chrism Mass March 31 in Bonita Springs

The Chrism Mass, which takes place during Holy Week every year, will be held 10:30 a.m., March 31, 2026, at St. Leo the Great Parish, 28290 Beaumont Road, Bonita Springs. During this Mass, Bishop Frank J. Dewane will bless the Holy Oils which are used in the administration of the Sacraments at each parish throughout the year. Priests and Deacons celebrating 25 and 50 years of Ordination are recognized at this Mass.

Retreat Center Triduum Retreat

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice is hosting a Triduum Retreat, Easter Weekend, April 2-5, 2026. This retreat begins with supper on Holy Thursday and ends with breakfast on Easter Sunday.  The liturgies of the Lord’s Supper, Way of the Cross, Commemoration of the Lord’s Passion, Easter Vigil, and Sunrise Easter Liturgy are celebrated. A series of six one-hour conferences on varying topics is offered throughout the retreat.  In addition, the opportunity for Confession is available. $525 per retreatant for a private room or $360 per retreatant for a shared, double occupancy room (retreatant to locate appropriate roommate where silence can be maintained). No commuter rate is offered. Register at www.olph-retreat.org.

Diocese of Venice Missionary Opportunity for Summer 2026 Now Open

Could the Lord be calling you? The Diocese of Venice is inviting college-age young adults to apply to serve as Totus Tuus Missionaries for the Diocese’s Parish Catechetical Summer Totus Tuus Camps. As a Totus Tuus Missionary, you will be an authentic witness to Christ’s love, teach the Catholic faith to children and youth, and grow in leadership, community, and your personal relationship with Christ. Many missionaries describe Totus Tuus as one of the most meaningful and life-changing experiences of their lives, a summer where faith deepens, friendships grow, and God’s call becomes clearer. Don’t miss this unique opportunity! Apply today! To apply, visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/562S8YS. Applicants must be 18 years of age or older, and available from May 20 through July 31, 2026. For further information, contact Andres Prias, Diocesan Director of Youth & Young Adult Ministry, at prias@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-441-1122.

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.

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.

Retreat Center seeks volunteers

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice is in need of 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.

Lent – becoming worthy to share in the Resurrection in 2026

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The Lenten Season presents a unique opportunity to grow closer to God and to distance oneself from evil.

Lent is one of the most important liturgical seasons of the Church’s calendar and begins on Ash Wednesday, which this year falls on Feb. 18, 2026. The faithful prepare during this season for Holy Week, those sacred days in the Church calendar when we celebrate the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Paschal Mystery of the Faith.

“The faithful are all called to know better their faith, to live it more deeply, and share their love of the Lord with others,” Bishop Frank J. Dewane said. “This ties in directly with our Lenten call to turn our lives over to Christ and to be more that man or woman of God He calls us to be. We are called to bear witness to the Lord by following the example of His suffering, making us worthy to share in His Resurrection.”

The three pillars of the Lenten observance, fasting, prayer, and almsgiving express conversion in relation to oneself, to God, and to others. The Lord calls each person to total commitment, something the Bishop said was not a suggestion but a command as written in the Gospel of Matthew.

“It is a command that you and I are to go out to pray, to fast and we are to give alms. Set about during this Lenten Season to raise your mind and heart to God. Choose how you are going to do that, keeping in mind that Matthew identifies the path you should take,” Bishop Dewane said.

By practicing these observances together, they become more than the sum of their parts. Bishop Dewane said by joining the pillars together we hear the Word of God more deliberately and devote ourselves to prayer more ardently as we celebrate the Paschal Mystery. The pillars become part of a faith that flourishes and a heart that is increasingly dedicated to the Lord.

Fasting and abstinence

Fasting and abstinence is not just about food, or lack of it, but instead about sacrifice for the benefit of our spiritual lives – a fasting from sin. Sacrifice and self-denial should not be viewed as something to lament but instead should be viewed as an opportunity to remove anything that distracts us from Jesus Christ and a reception of grace. Fasting and abstinence are about spiritual conversion and renewal, not solely about meat and no food.

For early Christians, fasting was an important and meaningful Lenten practice in commemoration of Christ’s Passion and Death. The current Lenten discipline, set forth by the Roman Catholic Church, consists of both fasting and abstinence on Ash Wednesday (Feb. 18) and Good Friday (April 3), as well as abstaining from meat each Friday of Lent.

“This is an opportunity to teach ourselves an internal discipline,” Bishop Dewane said. “It is good to recognize and to use as a reminder of what it is we should be fasting from and that is sin. When fasting, or abstaining from meat, this Lenten Season try not to just ‘follow the motions,’ so to speak, make an extra effort to improve upon the spiritual areas of one’s life.”

Prayer

The second Lenten pillar is prayer, which the Catechism tells us is coupled with charity. All Catholics are called to a meaningful prayer life. A prayer life includes both personal, which comes from the heart, and traditional prayer. With both dimensions, the faithful grow closer to both Christ Himself and His Church.

Prayer is an indispensable component of the Catholic Faith. By growing and maturing in faith, prayer becomes an act of worship. Prayer is recognized as a critical act of public worship in the Church, especially in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.

The five basic forms of prayer are blessing, petition, intercession, thanksgiving, and praise. When someone prays in any one of these forms, they are expressing a different emotion, need, concern or appreciation. No two prayers from the heart are the same, just as no two conversations are the same.

“In this Lenten Season we are called to pray with a deeper sense of spirituality and examine how we can step up our prayer life,” Bishop Dewane said.  “This goes beyond a short rote prayer, which can be done in a second and does not require meditation or reflection; prayer requires the input of the heart and soul. And just as importantly, we have to have the patience to listen in prayer. Listen to what the Lord is saying and how is it that God speaks to you.”

Almsgiving

The third pillar of Lent, almsgiving, is coupled in the Catechism with self-denial. While often mentioned as the last of the three traditional pillars of the Lenten observance, it is certainly not the least of the three and is often completely misunderstood. The Church’s expression of almsgiving is an act of self-denial, or an expression of charity and assistance extended to the needy.

By almsgiving during Lent, one not only expresses care for those in need, but also expresses a sign of gratitude for all God has provided in one’s own life. These acts of charity are connected to the responsibilities of living the faith that begins with baptism and is reignited in the Sacrament of Confirmation.

“Almsgiving is about taking the extra step in reaching out in charity and love for the right reason, not just to impress others,” Bishop Dewane said. The Catechism states, “almsgiving, together with prayer and fasting, are traditionally recommended to foster the state of interior penance.”

“In a sense, almsgiving is a type of prayer,” Bishop Dewane said. “Because almsgiving requires sacrifice. It is also a sort of fasting from the material world, in what could have been purchased. We try too hard to silo these pillars and not let them be an integrated expression from our soul as to why we are doing this – to recall the Paschal Mystery – how Jesus saved us – and our being open to receiving the greatness of that gift.”

Reconciliation

In addition, Bishop Dewane said the precept of confessing grave sins and receiving Holy Communion, at least once during the Lenten Season, merits a reminder.

To facilitate this requirement, every Parish in the Diocese of Venice will be open with a confessor present 4 to 8 p.m., Friday, March 27, and 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday, March 28. Check with your local Parish for additional confession times or the availability of a Penance Service. These opportunities are made available so that the faithful may find ample opportunity to receive God’s Mercy in the Sacrament of Reconciliation during the Lenten Season.

REGULATIONS ON FASTING AND ABSTINENCE

Ash Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026, and Good Friday, April 3, are days of fast and abstinence. All Fridays of Lent are also days of abstinence from meat.

Fasting is to be observed on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday by all Catholics between the ages of 18 years and 59 years (inclusive). On a fast day, one full meal is allowed. Two smaller meals, sufficient to maintain strength, may be taken according to each one’s needs, but together they should not equal another full meal. In the context of observing the fast, eating between meals is not permitted, but liquids are allowed. If possible, the fast on Good Friday is to continue until the Easter Vigil (on Holy Saturday night) as the “paschal fast” to honor the suffering and death of the Lord Jesus, and to prepare ourselves to share more fully and to celebrate more readily His Resurrection.

Abstinence from meat is to be observed by all Catholics who are 14 years of age and older on Ash Wednesday and all Fridays of Lent, including Good Friday.

(Note: If a person is unable to observe the above regulations due to ill health or other serious reasons, they are urged to practice other forms of self-denial that are suitable to their condition.)

Diocesan Eucharistic Missionary Conference shares inspirational message: Become the Lord’s messenger 

Posted on by Bob Reddy

After a three-year effort to reignite faith in, and reverence for, the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist, the Diocese of Venice hosted a Eucharistic Missionary Conference Feb. 7, 2026, at the Church of the Resurrection of Our Lord Parish in Fort Myers.

During the Conference the participants were challenged to become Eucharistic Missionaries just as Jesus Christ has called all to evangelize. Unlike the early disciples the modern definition of being Eucharistic Missionaries does not mean spreading the Gospel in a foreign land or going door-to-door with the Good News, but the Lord is asking each of us to evangelize here in the Diocese of Venice, among fellow parishioners, family, friends, and neighbors.

This was the message Bishop Frank J. Dewane shared for the participants in the Conference. “Now that the three-year (National Eucharistic) Revival is complete, you must allow yourself to be the Lord’s messenger; to be a Eucharistic Missionary, and to be His invitation to all those you meet.”

Bishop Dewane said that being a Eucharistic Missionary doesn’t mean someone has to be the holiest person, but instead they need to be the example of Christ by the life they live and then, through the grace of the Holy Spirit, be willing to point toward the Eucharist. This requires a familiarity with the Eucharist and having a personal relationship with God in their own lives.

“Who is Jesus Christ to you?” Bishop Dewane asked. “As a Eucharistic Missionary, you are saying a certain ‘Yes!’ to all that Christ is doing for his Church in the Most Holy Eucharist.

To get the message of finding Christ in the Eucharist out into the world, missionaries must reach out to other people who might not have a deep relationship with Christ. They can be found in the pews, the people one greets at each Mass, or in the coffee social afterwards but are perhaps not seen at Eucharistic Adoration, Bishop Dewane said.

“Do we ever invite them? Tell them what you get out of going to Adoration. It might feel uncomfortable doing that, but schedule to meet at Adoration or to talk about it in a less formal setting,” Bishop Dewane said. “A missionary, by definition, has to step outside of themselves. It is about the message they carry. It is about Jesus Christ.”

The Bishop explained that missionaries will be able to identify someone in the spirit of humility for their role is to be the leaven, the voice of Christ.

“When you ask some to join you at Adoration, to Mass, or to a social event at your Parish, you are interceding for that person with the Holy Spirit,” Bishop Dewane continued. “If you get a negative response, don’t give up, because Jesus would want you to continue doing His work. You have to ask the Lord to allow you to be His instrument in spreading His presence in the world. You are going to be surprised by the number of individuals who will respond in a positive way. We have to continue to pray that the Holy Spirit will enliven the individual to know Christ more profoundly within the Eucharist.”

Bishop Dewane celebrated the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass to open the Conference. The Mass was followed by Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and Benediction, setting the appropriate tone for the rest of the Conference.

The keynote was offered by nationally recognized Catholic presenter, best-selling author, and radio host, Jon Leonetti. His presentations were entitled: “Sacrament Most Holy, Sacrament Divine” and “Saints and the Eucharist.”

Leonetti opened by explaining that there is no other meaning, reason or purpose in our lives as Catholics than to become saints and with the goal of being in heaven with God for all eternity.

“Everything must be aimed toward that end,” Leonetti said. “We all start from where we need to be. You do this by asking what it is God wants of you. What the Lord says He wants for us will make us infinitely happier and brings more peace than anything we ask or bring into our own lives.”

To achieve this, Leonetti said we must give ourselves to God, which is only possible when we learn to trust God and what He wants for us. “From that trust comes the greatest gift God has ever given to us in the world – the Holy Eucharist. As St. Thomas Aquinas said, it is the one gift where God gives us everything of who He is.”

The response from participants in the Conference was overwhelmingly positive. Jean Bonilla, from St. Leo the Great Parish in Bonita Springs, said the day was an affirmation of her love for the Catholic Church.

“A beautiful Mass and message from Bishop Dewane, followed by Eucharistic Adoration and then a powerful talk. I am leaving here ready to be that Eucharistic Missionary, telling everyone about the beauty of our faith found in the Eucharist,” Bonilla said.

To learn more about similar and other evangelization efforts and programs offered within the Diocese, please visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/offices/offices-departments/evangelization/ or contact James Gontis at 941-484-9543 or gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

Lenten 40 Days for Life opens Ash Wednesday in Sarasota, Fort Myers and Naples

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Join other Christians during Lent for the Spring 40 Days for Life Campaign happening in Naples, Fort Myers and Sarasota. The campaign begins on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026, and continues through Palm Sunday, March 29.

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 Lenten effort yet, with prayer vigils planned in 760 cities. This campaign encompasses 40 days of prayer and fasting for an end to abortion. In the Diocese of Venice, there are opportunities to stand and peacefully pray during vigils in the public right-of-way outside Planned Parenthood abortion facilities in Naples, Fort Myers and Sarasota.

Thanks to the leadership of Bishop Frank J. Dewane, the Diocese of Venice was one of the earliest to participate in the national campaign which began in 2006.

 The Sarasota prayer vigil is daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., at 736 Central Ave. A kick-off event will take place at 10 a.m., Monday, Feb. 16, with special guest Jack Prietsch, a sidewalk advocate from Our Lady of the Angels Parish in Lakewood Ranch. For information about the Sarasota campaign, please visit https://www.40daysforlife.com/en/sarasota.

The Fort Myers prayer vigil is 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday to Saturday, at 6418 Commerce Park Drive. A kickoff rally will take place 10:30 a.m., Feb. 18, with Elise Rose as the featured speaker. Rose is a longtime pro-life advocate, educator and sidewalk counselor. For more information, visit https://www.40daysforlife.com/en/fortmyers.

 The Naples prayer vigil is 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday to Saturday, at 1425 Creech Road. A kick-off event will take place at 10 a.m., Feb. 19, with guest speaker Dr. Haywood Robinson, former abortionist and now 40 Days for Life Director of National Affairs and Education, Bryan Kennedy, Chief of Operations for the Florida Citizens Alliance, and Scott Baier, Director of Community Pregnancy Clinics. For more additional information about 40 Days activities in Naples, please visit https://www.40daysforlife.com/en/naples.

Check with your local Parish to learn the days they are committed to standing up for life. Participants are encouraged to spend at least one hour in silent prayer in front of a local abortion facility seeking an end to legalized abortion in the U.S. Recent victories to curb access to abortion in Florida are not the end of this fight, but a new beginning.

Since 40 Days for Life began, more than 26,114 mothers have chosen life for their children; 275 abortion workers have quit their jobs; and 184 abortion mills have gone out of business where 40 Days for Life vigils have been held.

In an additional effort to promote a Culture of Life, the first Muffins for Life event was held Feb. 5, 2026, at Incarnation Parish in Sarasota with great success! Bishop Dewane offered welcome remarks and an opening prayer at the start of the event. Referencing the day’s Gospel, Bishop Dewane thanked all for their attendance, and reminded the group that they had been missioned by God, saying “Just as in the Gospel of Mark, those 12 apostles were missioned and sent out, we are sent out to evangelize on this issue of life!”

Art Reilly, a longtime area supporter, advocate and hard worker for the Respect Life mission, was presented with the Diocese’s first Culture of Life Award. Pam Stenzel spoke about the Safe Haven Baby Boxes, and Rich Owens shared the story of the 40 Days for Life mission, reminding all that volunteers are needed on the sidewalk throughout Lent.

To learn how to support or participate in 40 Days for Life in the Diocese contact Tavia Ames, Diocese of Venice Respect Life Director, at 941-441-1101 or ames@dioceseofvenice.org.

2026 Sarasota Charity Ball supports key programs

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The Catholic Charities Ball 2026 “In Christ, We Are One” was a huge success on Feb. 7, 2026, at the St. Regis Longboat Key Resort on Longboat Key. The proceeds from the Ball support the programs of Catholic Charities in Sarasota and Manatee counties.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane was the guest of honor and expressed his gratitude for the outpouring of support for Catholic Charities as its many programs help families and individuals in the community, ensuring that our brothers and sisters in Christ continue to receive the help and support they need to not only survive, but thrive and to have hope in the future. Bishop Dewane stated the event fell on the 12th International Day of Prayer and Awareness Against Human Trafficking and noted how the Catholic Charities Anti-Human Trafficking Program is renowned throughout Florida for the compassionate work it does to help victims of this crime.

“We must remember, Catholic Charities strives to figure out how to help those in need where they are, because they are our neighbors, made in the image and likeness of God,” Bishop Dewane said. “That must be our guiding point. It brings me great joy to know that so many of you good people here recognize the important works Catholic Charities does each day.”

The elegant evening included silent and live auctions, as well as live music.

Catholic Charities assisted more than 350,000 people in need in 2025, providing a wide range of services throughout the 10-county Diocese of Venice. The work of the staff and volunteers of Catholic Charities provide programs that not only help in a crisis but assist in improving the daily lives of those in need is an essential act of mercy and fundamental mission of the Church.

For additional information about the good works of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., please visit www.catholiccharitiesdov.org.

Anti-Human Trafficking Awareness ramps up

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Because January was National Human Trafficking Awareness Month and Feb. 7, 2026, was the 12th International Day of Prayer and Awareness Against Human Trafficking, it was appropriate that a member of Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice Inc., offered anti-human trafficking talks to local groups in recent weeks.

Alex Olivares, Catholic Charities Regional Director for Lee County, spoke at Resurrection of Our Lord Parish in Fort Myers on Jan. 29, and then to a Senior Life Ministry luncheon at San Pedro Parish in North Port on Feb. 5. Combined, more than 80 people heard the presentations which focused on helping participants understand the different forms of trafficking (sex and labor), helping them identify potential survivors, and explained how and when to report concerns.

“Human trafficking is the biggest social issue of our time,” Olivares said. “It is the second most profitable commodity for organized crime in the world, generating $1.72 billion each year, only lagging behind drug trafficking. The reality is that there are more slaves now, people who are being trafficked each day, than at any other time in history.”

The Catholic Charities team has provided services to more than 250 victims of human trafficking in the region, and Olivares shared some of the cases. One case that hit home for the parents and grandparents who attended the presentations was of an incident at Venice High School in 2014. An older student, with the help of an adult male, drugged and blackmailed four teen girls into prostitution.

“Unlike slavery of the past, with modern-day human trafficking, the chains aren’t visible,” Olivares said. “It is happening all around us.”

Olivares credited Bishop Frank J. Dewane for his outspoken support of the program and ensuring continued funding while outside resources have fluctuated through the years.

Bishop Dewane said “assisting the victims of human trafficking is an important outreach that impacts far too many.  The Catholic Charities team is on the frontlines helping children, and adults, overcome an exploitation that is nearly impossible to comprehend.”

In November 2025, the Catholic Charities Anti-Human Trafficking Team was part of a larger coalition organized to support operation “Home for the Holidays,” a state-wide rescue mission comprised of local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. A task force, led by the U.S. Marshals Service, located and received 122 missing and endangered Florida children in a two-week operation. Catholic Charities DOV provided safe shelter once the children were rescued, ensuring that the children, including 29 from the Fort Myers region, were cared for in an appropriate and supportive process once freed.

Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice’s support extended beyond the rescue. The Catholic Charities Anti-Human Trafficking Assistance program has a long-standing commitment to the plight of human trafficking in Southwest Florida by providing intensive case management and mental health counseling to all individuals who are the victims of this crime as they attempt to integrate into society after being rescued.

The group works closely with law enforcement agencies and prosecutors throughout Southwest Florida to provide and coordinate an expansive array of services to survivors from basic human needs to legal representation. Comprehensive case management and direct assistance is offered to all victims of severe human trafficking, which include minors, adults, and both domestic and foreign-born individuals. A victim-centered approach is used to deliver aid to clients while maintaining a mission of compassion, integrity, and empathy.

Victims are offered the following services: food and clothing; coordination to a shelter at a safe distance from the site of the exploitation; transitional housing; medical and dental service coordination; mental health counseling; referrals for further mental health services as needed; state and federal laws and benefits orientation and education; benefit application assistance; educational and language service opportunities; liaison with law enforcement and immigration service providers; and coordination with various community agencies for other required services.

Catholic Charities staff is active in various organizations that coordinate efforts to combat human trafficking and to inform the public about this heinous crime.

To learn more about the Anti-Human Trafficking Assistance program, please call 239-738-8722, or visit https://catholiccharitiesdov.org/anti-human-trafficking. If you would like to support this program, you can visit https://catholiccharitiesdov.org/donate.

News Briefs for the week of February 13, 2026

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Appointments

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

Father Roderick Mitial, as Parochial Vicar at St. Peter the Apostle Parish in Naples effective Feb. 6, 2026.

Father Gilbert Nortilus, relieved of duties as Parochial Vicar of St. Peter the Apostle in Naples effective Feb. 6, 2026.

Father Manoj Francis, M.C.B.S., as Parochial Vicar of St. Andrew Parish in Cape Coral, and St. Katharine Drexel Parish in Cape Coral, effective Jan. 30, 2026.

Father Robert Mulligan, O.S.F.S., as Administrator of St. Ann Parish in Naples effective Jan. 27, 2026, and thus is relieved of his duties as Parochial Vicar of St. Ann Parish.

Father Michael Young, as Parochial Vicar at Our Lady of Light Parish in Fort Myers effective Jan. 26, 2026, and thus is relieved of his duties as Parochial Vicar of Epiphany Cathedral in Venice.

Father Juan Carlos Sack, as Parochial Vicar of Our Lady Queen of Heaven Parish in LaBelle, effective Jan. 1, 2026, and thus is relieved of his duties as Temporary Parochial Vicar at St. Leo the Great Parish in Bonita Springs.

Father Grzegorz Klich, as Parochial Vicar of St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Port Charlotte, effective Dec. 31, 2025, and thus is relieved of his duties as Parochial Vicar of St. Andrew Parish in Cape Coral.

Wauchula man ordained to priesthood for Institute of the Incarnate Work

Congratulations to Father Miguel Castro III, IVE, of St. Michael Parish in Wauchula, who was ordained to the Priesthood for the Institute of the Incarnate Word, Feb. 7, 2026, at St. Matthew Cathedral in Washington, D.C. Father Miguel is the first priest ordained from Hardee County and was scheduled to celebrate his First Mass at St. Michael on Feb. 12. St. Michael is served by women religious, Servant Sisters of the Lord and the Virgin of Matara, who are part from the Incarnate Word order.

Lunar New Year celebrated by Vietnamese Catholic Community in Fort Myers

The Vietnamese Catholic Community of St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers held an early celebration of the Lunar New Year on Feb. 8, 2026, at Our Lady of Light Parish in Fort Myers. The celebration, which included a formal dinner and live music, was moved due to ongoing renovations at St. John XXIII. Bishop Frank J. Dewane addressed the faithful saying, “It is I who am honored to be with all of you as a part of this festive celebration. Your presence in the Diocese is positive and beautiful and the contribution you make here to your Parish is substantial.” Adam Nguyen, who has been a leader in the Fort Myers Vietnamese community since its founding many years ago, said it was an honor to have the Bishop present for the community celebration. Also present were Father Jimmy Pham, CRM, the current Chaplain for the Vietnamese community at St. John XXIII, Father Jay Raju, Pastor at St. John XXIII, and Diocesan Seminarian Lam Vo, who is studying at St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary in Boynton Beach and is currently serving as Pastoral Year at the Parish. A larger, family-oriented, outdoor celebration of the Lunar New Year will take place at St. John XXIII on Feb. 15.

Parish Gala held at local aquarium

The Our Lady of the Angels Parish 2026 Gala, themed “Into the Deep,” was held Feb. 6, 2026, at Mote Aquarium at Nathan Benderson Park in Sarasota. “Put out into the deep,” comes from the Gospel of Luke and is a call from Christ Himself to journey into the depths of faith, purpose, and mission. This special evening was both a celebration of the profound ways the Parish continues to inspire and a courageous call to journey further—deeper in spirituality, service, and generosity. Bishop Frank J. Dewane was the honored guest and noted how the Lakewood Ranch Parish has gained a reputation for its generosity to the community while undergoing rapid growth. The evening included live and silent auctions as well as live music.

Buddy program helps students improve literacy

To help improve the reading skills for students at St. Martha Catholic School in Sarasota, teachers have developed a buddy system where second grade students read to their pre-kindergarten-4 counterparts. The most recent team-up took place Feb. 5, 2026, helps the older students to improve with their language skills such as fluency and intonation while helping to teach their buddies how to read better all while building friendships and community in the school.

School hydroponics garden helps food pantry

The hydroponics garden at St. Joseph Catholic School in Bradenton has been generating impressive yields of cabbage and tomatoes in recent days. On Feb. 6, 2026, representatives from the school’s Builders Club and K-Kids (Kiwanis Kids), made a delivery to the St. Joseph Food Pantry. The school partners with the food pantry throughout each school year to collect needed food and to also share what is grown in the hydroponics garden. The fresh vegetables were a welcome addition to what was offered at the pantry.

Faith & Wine in Lee County Feb. 19

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 next event of the 2025-2026 season Feb. 19, 2026, at Resurrection of Our Lord Parish, 8051 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers. The guest speaker is Carol Razza, whose talk is titled: “Wake Up Sleeping Beauty, You Have Already Been Kissed.” 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/.

Theology on Tap Feb. 19 in University Park

The next gathering of Theology on Tap, a very special night of fellowship, faith, and fun with fellow Catholic young adults from across the Diocese, is 7 – 9 p.m., Feb. 19, 2026, at Oak & Stone, 5405 University Parkway, University Park. The special guest is Martin Doman, who will offer a night of praise and music. Theology on Tap meets on the third Thursday of every month There is no cost to attend, and no registration required. Bring a friend. For more information, contact Andres Prias at prias@dioceseofvenice.org.

Faith & Ale of Southwest Florida Feb. 19

Faith & Ale, a Catholic Men’s Apostolate in Southwest Florida, offers monthly gatherings of Catholic men promoting fellowship and growth in faith. The next meeting is Feb. 19, 2026, at Our Lady of Light Parish, 19680 Cypress View Drive, Fort Myers. The guest speaker is Father James Rafferty, Director of the Institute for Priestly Formation, who will discuss “Discerning God’s Voice & The Tempter’s Voice.” Tickets are $10.  Doors open at 6 p.m. Register https://faithandale.com/. For more information, email faithandalefortmyers@gmail.com.

Diocesan Lenten Youth Retreats

The Diocese of Venice Youth & Young Adult Ministry is offering opportunities for middle school and high school students to participate in Diocesan Lenten Youth Retreats designed to create a time and place for silence, reflection, and shared experience, allowing young people to step away from the pace and distractions of daily life and re-focus their hearts on God. The middle school retreats will be offered 5 – 8:30 p.m., Feb. 20, 2026, at St. Elizabeth Seton Parish, Naples, and March 3, at St. Paul Parish, Arcadia. The high school retreats will be 3 – 8 p.m., Feb. 22, at St. Raphael Parish, Lehigh Acres, and March 1, at St. Thomas More Parish, Sarasota. Registration will open at dioceseofvenice.org on Jan. 20. The cost is $10 per student.  For further information, please contact Andres Prias at prias@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-441-1122.

Walk for the Poor in Cape Coral Feb. 21

The 5th Annual Walk for the Poor to support the outreach of the St. Vincent de Paul St. Andrew Conference in Cape Coral will take place 10 a.m., Feb. 21, 2026, at St. Andrew Parish, 2628 Del Prado Blvd., Cape Coral. The walk will help families throughout Cape Coral as every day, SVdP volunteers provide emergency food, medical or prescription cost assistance, and help to restore utilities or prevent cut-off. Every dollar raised goes back to the local community. In 2025, the St. Andrew Conference processed more than 1,100 phone calls, conducted more than 350 home visits and helped 547 households with 1,500 people, including 600 children. The cost is $15. Please register at www.go.rallyup.com/capesvdp.

Project Rachel retreat Feb. 24

For women or men who have been scarred by abortion, the Diocese offers “Project Rachel,” an outreach of the Catholic Church to those who are suffering and in need of healing following an abortion. This program offers help through the sacraments, retreats, and referrals for professional counseling, all confidentially. The next healing retreat will be held Feb. 24, 2026. For more information, or to join, please contact, Sylvia Jimenez, Project Rachel Coordinator, at 941-412-5860 (English and en Español), or project.rachel@dioceseofvenice.org. The Diocese also works with “Support After Abortion,” a national outreach to provide individualized care for those impacted by abortion. For details, visit https://supportafterabortion.com/.

 

Execution Vigils Feb. 24 and March 3

The execution of Florida inmates by the State of Florida continues at an alarming rate. A record 19 executions took place in Florida in 2025, with the first execution of 2026 taking place on Feb. 10. For each Florida execution, a Prayer Vigil is scheduled at San Pedro Parish Chapel, 14380 Tamiami Trail, North Port. All are welcome and encouraged to attend. The Prayer Vigils begin at 5:30 p.m., last less than an hour and include hymns, a Gospel reading, reflections, intercessions and a praying of the Rosary. A pause takes place at 6 p.m., the time the actual executions take place. Everyone involved in the execution process is prayed for; the doctor administering the execution, the witnesses, the victims and their families, and we pray for a conversion of the condemned, and an end to the death penalty. The next execution Prayer Vigil is Feb. 24, 2026, which will coincide with the scheduled execution of Melvin Trotter, who is scheduled to be the second person executed in Florida this year. Another Vigil will take place March 3, to coincide with the execution of Billy Leon Kearse.

Our Mother’s House Wine Tasting Feb. 26

The Catholic Charities Our Mother’s House Wine Tasting Auction and Dinner Dance is 5:30 p.m., Feb 26, at Plantation Golf & Country Club, 500 Rockley Blvd., Venice. The annual event benefits the mothers and children at Our Mother’s House, a 2-year transitional living program located in the heart of Venice, dedicated to empowering single mothers with a child. Tickets $150. For more information, 941-485-6264 or omhwinetasting@ccdov.org.

Liberty Ball for Ave Maria School of Law

The Ave Maria School of Law invites all to attend the Liberty Ball – Celebrating 250 Years of Justice & the American Way, 5:30 p.m., Feb. 24, 2026, Royal Poinciana Golf Club, Naples. The theme is 18th century inspired elegance or black-tie optional. The keynote speaker is Christopher Ruddy, CEO, Newsmax Media. Tickets are $1,000. For more information, contact Jackie Burke at 239-687-5341 or jburk@avemarialaw.edu.

Lenten Parish Mission

Father Cedric Pisegna, C.P., an inspirational and motivational speaker and author of 26 books, will be hosting a Lenten Mission 5:30 p.m. nightly from March 1 through March 4, 2026, at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, 1301 Center Road, Venice. All are welcome. Call 941-497-2931 for more information.

Application deadline for Foundation scholarships is March 1

The deadline for entry for college and vocational scholarships for the 2025-2026 academic year from the Catholic Community Foundation of Southwest Florida is 11:59 p.m., Sunday, March 1, 2025. To apply for all available scholarships, visit ccfdioceseofvenice.org. For more information contact Anna Kollmeyer at 941-486-4722 or ccf@dioceseofvenice.org.

Emmaus Experience Women’s Retreat in March

The Epiphany Cathedral Emmaus Retreat Team is hosting an Emmaus Experience Women’s Retreat March 6 to March 8, 2026, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice. Give yourself the gift of time away from distractions of your daily routine to listen to Jesus and the Holy Spirit in an environment of sincere faith, fellowship, and worship. Registration is $305 for a double room, $415 for a private room. Space is limited. The registration deadline is Feb. 16, 2026. Please contact Donna Vodraska at donnavodraska@aol.com or 630-336-0918.

Vocations Awareness Weekend Retreat

Is God calling you, or someone you know, to the priesthood? The Diocese of Venice Vocations Offices is offering a weekend retreat for young men to learn firsthand about in the life of a seminarian at St. John Vianney College Seminary in Miami! Open to young men ages 17 and up, the retreat is March 6-8, 2026. Transportation is provided. Contact Lina Johnson to register at johnson@dioceseofvenice.org or call 941-486-4720.

Royal Rummage Sale XVIII March 6-7

The St. Mary, Star of the Sea Parish Women’s Guild presents Royal Rummage Sale XVIII, in the Parish Hall, 4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. The early bird sale is 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., March 6, 2026, and the admission is $5. The regular sale, with free admission, is 9 a.m. – noon, March 7. Don’t miss out on the biggest and best rummage sale on Longboat Key which includes clothing, furniture, art, collectible, jewelry, housewares, linens, toys, electronics, books, and much more.

Venetian Ball March 7 in Bonita Springs

The annual Catholic Charities Venetian Ball is 6 p.m., March 7, 2026, at St. Leo the Great Parish Hall, 28290 Beaumont Road, Bonita Springs. This gala benefits programming and services in Lee, Hendry, and Glades Counties. Tickets are $250, and are available at https://catholiccharitiesdov.org/events. For more information, call 239-342-1620 or email venetianball@ccdov.org.

Emerald Ball March 14 in Naples

The annual Catholic Charities Emerald Ball is 5:30 p.m., March 14, 2026, at the Ritz-Carlton Tiburon Golf Resort, 2600 Tiburon Drive, Naples. This event benefits the programs and services in Collier County. Tickets are $500, and are available at https://catholiccharitiesdov.org/events. For more information, call 239-455-2655 or email emeraldball@catholiccharitiesdov.org.

Marriage Prep retreats/seminars coming soon

Marriage Preparation Retreats are required by the Diocese of Venice for those couples preparing for Sacramental Marriage in the Catholic Church. The retreat’s purpose is to enable couples to become more aware of the privileges and responsibility of marriage. The next two of many Marriage Retreats in 2026 are March 21, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice, and June 20 at St. John the Evangelist Parish in Naples. Additionally, the Two Become One Marriage Retreat prepares couples 55 and older who are planning for the Sacrament of Marriage or convalidation in the Catholic Church. The next Two Become One Marriage Retreat is May 2, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice. Registration is required for all retreats at https://dioceseofvenice.regfox.com/2026-day-of-reflection-mp-retreat. Couples unable to attend an in-person retreat may contact the Diocesan Marriage Prep office to register for the online version. Please contact Jim Gontis at 941- 486-4754 or gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

Chrism Mass March 31 in Bonita Springs

The Chrism Mass, which takes place during Holy Week every year, will be held 10:30 a.m., March 31, 2026, at St. Leo the Great Parish, 28290 Beaumont Road, Bonita Springs. During this Mass, Bishop Frank J. Dewane will bless the Holy Oils which are used in the administration of the Sacraments at each parish throughout the year. Priests and Deacons celebrating 25 and 50 years of Ordination are recognized at this Mass.

Diocese of Venice Missionary Opportunity for Summer 2026 Now Open

Could the Lord be calling you? The Diocese of Venice is inviting college-age young adults to apply to serve as Totus Tuus Missionaries for the Diocese’s Parish Catechetical Summer Totus Tuus Camps. As a Totus Tuus Missionary, you will be an authentic witness to Christ’s love, teach the Catholic faith to children and youth, and grow in leadership, community, and your personal relationship with Christ. Many missionaries describe Totus Tuus as one of the most meaningful and life-changing experiences of their lives, a summer where faith deepens, friendships grow, and God’s call becomes clearer. Don’t miss this unique opportunity! Apply today! To apply, visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/562S8YS. Applicants must be 18 years of age or older, and available from May 20 through July 31, 2026. For further information, contact Andres Prias, Diocesan Director of Youth & Young Adult Ministry, at prias@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-441-1122.

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.

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.

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.

 

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