Bob Reddy, Author at Diocese of Venice

Stations of the Cross a Contemplative prayer that represents Passion

Posted on March 16, 2026March 16, 2026 by Bob Reddy

The Stations of the Cross, also known as the Way of the Cross or Via Crucis, commemorate Jesus’s passion and death on the cross. There are 14 stations that each depict a moment on Jesus’s journey to Calvary, usually through sacred art, prayers, and reflections.

The Stations of the Cross is a powerful way to contemplate and enter into the mystery of Jesus’ gift of Himself to us.

Visit any Parish, Mission or Chapel within the Diocese of Venice and there will be the 14 Stations ready and waiting for someone to begin the prayer which represents the Passion of Jesus as told in the Gospels of the New Testament.

The images on the Stations vary from Parish to Parish. There are a wide variety of stylistic depictions of the Stations within the Diocese. They reflect the preference of the faithful or the artist at the time they were installed. Many are in the form of wood carvings, paintings or marble reliefs. Most are inside, but several Parishes and retreat centers have Stations outside, such as at Our Lady of Perpetual Help retreat Center in Venice, St. Leo the Great Parish in Bonita Springs, St. Katharine Drexel Parish in Cape Coral and many more.

The Stations of the Cross take the Passion and make it an exercise of faith and prayer. From the earliest of days, followers of Jesus told the story of His Passion and Death. When pilgrims came to see Jerusalem, they were anxious to see the sites where Jesus walked. These sacred sites become important holy connections with Jesus. Eventually, following in the footsteps of the Lord, the Way of the Cross became a part of the pilgrimage visit.

The practice began as pious pilgrims traced the Lord’s path through Jerusalem on the Via Dolorosa. As many wanted to pass along the same route as Jesus, but could not make the journey to Jerusalem, a practice developed that eventually took the form of the 14 stations currently found in almost every church throughout the world.

The Stations as we know them today came about when it was no longer easy or even possible to visit the holy sites. In the 1500s, villages all over Europe started creating “replicas” of the Way of the Cross, with small shrines commemorating the places along the route in Jerusalem. Eventually, these shrines became the set of 14 Stations we now know and were placed in almost every Catholic Church in the world.

Today, Parishes and Missions throughout the Diocese of Venice offer this prayer on a monthly basis throughout the year. Lent is a good time to reinvest in this moving prayer and participate in a personal way.

On the Friday of the Second Week of Lent, March 6, 2026, Deacon Samuel Pellerito led about 100 for the Stations of the Cross following the morning Mass at St. Jude Parish in Sarasota. In the late afternoon, Deacon Paul Cronsbruck led the Stations for more than 300 at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice. The Stations included musical accompaniment and were preceded by and later followed by Eucharistic Adoration. Please check with your local Parish or Mission for the times that the Stations of the Cross is available.

As the Lenten Season concludes, many Parishes will also be hosting Stations of the Cross on Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion, April 3, either before or following the Liturgy.

Also on this day, many Parishes also host Living Stations, Stations done in the form of a reenactment. The devotion allows the Faithful to make a spiritual pilgrimage and meditate on the Passion of Christ. Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to take part in the at the Roman Colosseum.

The Living Stations at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Immokalee will begin at 6 p.m. in a field behind the church where stages will be erected. The opening will include the Last Supper, the betrayal of Christ at the Garden of Gethsemane by Judas; Christ’s appearance before Annas, the father-in-law of Caiaphas, who was high priest that year; His appearance before Caiaphas; ending before Pontius Pilate in the praetorium. Next will come the scourging before His sentencing to death. The presentation will be complete with Jesus crowned with thorns, as well as dozens of actors dressed in centurion garb or playing key figures in the retelling of the Passion. A procession will follow through the streets of Immokalee with the 14 Stations rotating between English, Spanish and Creole, before concluding with the crucifixion taking place in the field behind the church.

A Sarasota Ministerial Association-sponsored Stations of the Cross along Main Street in downtown Sarasota will take place at 7 a.m. This will include more than 1,000 representing numerous Christian denominations including priests from several Sarasota area Parishes, including Msgr. Patrick Duboise of Epiphany Cathedral in Venice, Father Geroge Suszko of St. Martha Parish in Sarasota, Father Jiobani Batista and Deacon Humberto Alvia of St. Jude Parish in Sarasota, Father Daniel Scanlan of St. Thomas More Parish in Sarasota, and Father Russell Wright of St. Patrick Parish in Sarasota.

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

Posted on March 16, 2026 by Bob Reddy

As vehicle after vehicle entered the parking lot of the Planned Parenthood abortion facility in Sarasota on March 11, 2026, there were prayer warriors and sidewalk counselors peacefully praying as witnesses for life.

It is on Wednesdays that medical abortions are scheduled and while there was a steady stream of vehicles the prayer warriors were not discouraged.

“We have to be out here so that the young women can see that someone is praying for them,” said one sidewalk counselor who asked not to be identified. “It is an expression of our profound love and alerts them we can help.” A short time later, after a vehicle entered the parking lot, the counsellor called out to a young couple as they made their way into the abortion facility, “Please! You can choose to save your baby! You are loved! We can help you!”

Though these pleas are not always successful, unborn babies are regularly saved. “It is beautiful because they tell us that they thought that abortion was their only option, then they see people praying for them and it helps change their mind.”

Sidewalk counselors offer literature and can direct the mothers to the neighboring Community Pregnancy Clinics Sarasota office which is a pro-life medical office in the shadow of the Planned Parenthood. There, women can receive free ultrasounds, counseling and direct support throughout their pregnancy to ensure that they and their unborn child can receive the care needed to have a chance at life.

Even though there are medical abortions on Wednesdays, prayer warriors are needed each day because protecting life has gotten even more complex, specifically with the advance and prevalence of chemical abortion, and the easy and anonymous distribution of abortion pills.

The Sarasota location is one of three which is hosting a 40 Days for Life peaceful prayer vigil which opened Ash Wednesday, Feb. 18, and will conclude on Palm Sunday, March 29. Prayer warriors are also praying for an end to abortion in Fort Myers and Naples, both in front of Planned Parenthood abortion facilities.

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 these 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.

Since 40 Days for Life began, more than 26,214 mothers have chosen life for their children, including 100 during the Spring 2026 campaign; 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.

While Diocese of Venice Parishes and churches of other denominations have committed to some blocks of time to participate in 40 Days for Life, more prayer warriors are needed. Most people spend about an hour praying the rosary, or holding signs which read, “Choose Life!” or “Pray to End Abortion!”

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 at 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. Register for this prayer vigil at https://www.40daysforlife.com/en/fortmyers. The Naples prayer vigil is 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday to Saturday, at 1425 Creech Road. Register for this prayer at https://www.40daysforlife.com/en/naples. Signing up to participate in 40 Days for Life is not required, but registering allows organizers to ensure as many hours as possible are covered throughout the 40 Days.

The Diocese of Venice is also an active participant in the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops “Walking With Moms in Need” initiative which operates at the Parish level to accompany pregnant and parenting mothers in need. The Diocesan Respect Life Office works with Parishes on this outreach which works to ensure that any woman who finds herself unexpectedly pregnant, or parenting in difficult circumstances, can turn to her local Catholic Church and be connected with the resources she needs. For resources in English and Spanish on how you can Walk with a Mom in Need, visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/offices/offices-departments/respect-life/walking-with-moms-in-need/.

To learn more how to support or participate in “Walking with Moms in Need,” 40 Days for Life and other pro-life activities in the Diocese please contact Tavia Ames, Diocese of Venice Respect Life Director, at 941-441-1101 or ames@dioceseofvenice.org.

Project Rachel retreat in Spanish April 18

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 in Spanish will be held April 18, 2026. The next English retreat is currently in the planning stages. 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/ or www.esperanzaposabortio.org.

Excellence in Education – STREAM Showcase

Posted on March 16, 2026March 16, 2026 by Bob Reddy

Each day the 15 Diocese of Venice Catholic schools educate more than 6,700 students using STREAM (science, technology, religion, engineering, art, math), an interdisciplinary study intended to promote advanced problem-solving, experiential learning, collaboration, and exploration of natural sciences, computer sciences (robotics), and engineering concepts to study the world around us. Students are challenged to solve complex real-world problems using mathematical computation and reasoning skills to analyze findings, draw conclusions, and produce evidence of understanding.

Catholic dispositions (the Gifts of Christ) are integrated into STREAM by providing students with a foundation of 11 religious virtues (Truth, Beauty, Goodness, Prudence, Fortitude, Affability, Humility, Courage, Diligence, Solidarity, and Charity) that promote good moral character and ethical decision-making during and after STREAM project-based learning experiences. Students explore STREAM concepts using technology tools as vessels to investigate phenomena, share findings, and create innovative solutions to real-world problems using artistic expression and creativity.

Catholic educators from across the Diocese gathered for a March 2, 2026, STREAM Symposium in Sarasota. At that time, the teachers were presented with a 2025-2026 STREAM Showcase package. The package included shared STREAM lessons from teachers around the Diocese. Many of the projects contained links to lessons plans and photos of students in action. For example, from Bishop Verot Catholic High School, Christy Curtis shared a lesson called “Escape” for her Algebra 2 class. Working in small groups, the students moved through five stations solving equations using their iPads and Classkick (a teaching application which tracks a student’s progress on work) as well as using previously learned concepts to unlock their numerical answers. Once their work was checked, they advanced to the final station to crack the last code to “escape.”

At St. Mary Academy in Sarasota, Julie Drapper’s 7^th grade class used the book, “A Long Walk to Water” by Linda Sue Park, which was explored in depth. In the book, Nya and Salva must work to survive daily challenges as 10-year-olds during wartime where no clean water is readily available. In this experience, the students analyzed their own walking with a jug of water and compared and contrasted the experiences Salva and Sya had to work through each new day. Keeping in mind their creativity and problem-solving skills, the goal of the students was to think like Nya and Salva about what skills helped Mya and Salva the most and why. The students also learned about the water crisis in our world. Including facts, such as 1 out of 9 people (783 million) worldwide do not have access to safe and clean drinking water. Or, in developing countries, nearly 80% of illnesses are linked to poor water conditions meaning better water sanitation and hygiene could prevent the deaths of close to 300,000 children per year. The reality is that every day, millions of people walk miles a day to get water for their families. To represent what it feels like to carry water for a specified distance, the students walked a lap around the field, carrying one-gallon jug of water weighing 8.34 pounds. To help add a greater immediacy to the project, the class was in regular contact with a missionary (a teacher from St. Mary Academy) who was doing work in Uganda and offering real life examples of people in need.

Fourth grade students in the classes of Emily Flynn, Karen Speitzer, and Drew Weston-Ball at St. Ann Catholic School in Naples, did flower dissections. While learning to identify the parts of a flower, students worked with lab partners to dissect a flower and observe its different structures. They also learned the importance of making detailed observations and keeping accurate records. After mastering the names and functions of each flower structure, students then learned about the reproductive cycle of flowering plants.

The Diocesan Catholic schools students are so good at STREAM that they excel in regional competitions. Students from St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral brought home the gold at the Education Regional Science Fair on Feb. 6, at Florida Gulf Coast University in Estero. Lorie Esperance placed first in Behavioral/Social Sciences, also receiving the Marie Glasgow and AAUW Friends STEM Award, an FGCU scholarship, an APA Certificate of Achievement, and additional recognitions. Lily Corby attained first place for Environmental Engineering and a special award from AIM Engineering and Surveying, Inc. Liam Farinelli & Xavier Darmanin placed first in Mathematics & Computational Science, receiving scholarships to FGCU. Adeline Kish received the NOAA Taking the Pulse of the Planet Award and Honorable Mention. Samuel Rau and Thomas Varela received third place in Physics and José Nasiff and Simon Arevalo also received special awards. Well done everyone!

Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocesan Superintendent of Catholic Education, said the projects shared in the STREAM Showcase package are an example of the great and exciting things happening each day in Diocesan Catholic schools.

Father Belmonte credits the vision of Bishop Frank J. Dewane with promoting the STREAM learning model, ensuring the Gifts of Christ play a central role in education. Bishop Dewane said each Diocesan Catholic school works conscientiously to provide Christ-centered learning experiences that are translatable to the real world, providing children with the tools they need to be successful beyond the classroom. In the Diocese of Venice, “We do that well.”

To learn more about Diocesan Catholic schools, please visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/offices/offices-departments/catholicschools/.

2026 Venetian Ball supports Catholic Charities in Lee, Glades and Hendry counties

Posted on March 16, 2026 by Bob Reddy

The programs of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., in Lee, Glades, and Hendry counties received tremendous support during the annual Venetian Ball on March 7, 2026, at St. Leo the Great Parish Hall in Bonita Springs.

“Empowering Tomorrow, with Compassion Today,” was the theme of the Venetian Ball, which reflects the remarkable resilience demonstrated by the residents of the region who have endured a pandemic and the impacts of several devastating hurricanes during the past five years, and aims to provide direct support to local residents.

Before offering the prayer before the meal, Bishop Frank J. Dewane thanked everyone for supporting Catholic Charities and shared that they could be confident that their money goes directly to helping children and families.

“Catholic Charities works to ensure that families have a secure environment not just feeding or clothing them, but by raising them up,” Bishop Dewane said. “Catholic Charities provides the support and counseling families need to move on in life. The staff and volunteers do this with compassion every day. Tonight, they need your help.”

Christopher M. Root, Chief Executive Officer for Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice, Inc. thanked the benefactors for their steadfast support. “Thank you for making it possible for us to not just talk about the good things we do, but to actual carry out the works of love, the corporal works of mercy – feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and house the homeless – and that is all because of the heart you have for this community.”

Alex Olivares, Catholic Charities Regional Director, spoke about the different outreach done in the community which puts an emphasis on helping people where they are, making them feel dignified and loved while letting them to know people care.

Olivares presented the Frank K. Galeana Humanitarian Award which recognized Phillip and Roseann Sohn for their selfless dedication and unwavering commitment to supporting the Positive Youth Development Program at the Catholic Charities Children’s Center in Fort Myers and in Bonita Springs. For more than 20 years, these programs have empowered elementary and middle school students with academic tutoring, mentoring, literacy support, and comprehensive case management, most seeing marked improvements in their grades each quarter. Ultimately, many go on to pursue higher education or work in a trade. There are currently 60 children enrolled in the program.

Philip Sohn expressed the couple’s gratitude for the recognition noting that their volunteer work and support of the youth programs of Catholic Charities has become their passion which has the reward of receiving the love of the children while also witnessing them advance scholastically, emotionally and socially. He also noted that many who have completed the program have returned to volunteer.

The evening also included a special song by the Children’s Center children. Catholic Charities staffer Mark David Anderson, who competed on American Idol, also sang.

The evening included fine dining, silent and live auctions and a “Gift of the Heart” appeal. The emcee was Lois Thome, WINK News anchor and lector at Resurrection of Our Lord Parish in Fort Myers.

If you would like to support Catholic Charities or learn more about their outreach throughout the Diocese of Venice, please visit www.catholiccharitiesdov.org.

News Briefs for the week of March 13, 2026

Posted on March 16, 2026March 16, 2026 by Bob Reddy

Appointment

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

Father Antony Lukka, as Parochial Vicar at St. John the Evangelist Parish, Naples, effective Feb. 27, 2026.

Verot wrestler wins State Title

Bishop Verot Catholic High School wrestler Bennett Sweitzer became the Florida High School Athletic Association State Champion in the 175 pound weight class on March 7, 2026, in Kissimmee. Bennett is also the first wrestler in the Fort Myers school’s history to advance that far in the state tournament and earn a title. Other Bishop Verot wrestlers who reached the state tournament were Quinn Enguita, Tiago Passos, and Hudson Sweitzer. In addition, two Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School wrestlers from Sarasota qualified for the state competition. Blake Roulund reached the state finals earning a silver medal, the best state placer in Cardinal Mooney history. Luke Ladle also qualified for the state tournament. Congratulations to each of the athletes!

Bishop Dewane celebrates 76^th birthday

To celebrate the 76^th birthday of Bishop Frank J. Dewane on March 9, 2026, the Catholic Center staff gathered in the main conference room in Venice. In addition to singing “Happy Birthday,” an Irish poem expressing the blessing of priests was presented. Two birthday cakes, one chocolate and one vanilla, and fresh fruit were offered.

Sarasota student wins national art competition

Chloe, an eighth grader at St. Martha Catholic School in Sarasota recently received her 1st Place Award in the Family Rosary “Try Prayer! It Works!” Art Competition sponsored by the Family Rosary Holy Cross Family Ministries. Holy Cross Family Ministries is a family of Catholic ministries that inspires, promotes and fosters the prayer life and spiritual well-being of families throughout the world.

Youth make lasagnas for those in need

The St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Parish youth group in Parrish recently completed a service project to make 10 lasagnas to donate to Lasagna Love which ensures dignity and support for the needy. The program delivers kindness without judgment or qualifications. Whether someone is facing financial challenges, emotional overwhelm, medical issues, or any other hardship, Lasagna Love strives to provide relief, hope, and connection through the simple yet profound gesture of a warm meal.

Two named National Merit Finalists

Sofia Mayus and Ambrielle Calixte of Bishop Verot Catholic School in Fort Myers were named National Merit Scholarship finalists. They now rank in the top 1% of high school seniors and have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 6,800 National Merit Scholarships worth more than $30 million. The process to become a Finalist included submitting a detailed application with information about academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, as well as honors and awards received. Advancing from Semifinalist to Finalist is no small accomplishment. It reflects continued academic excellence, consistency, and an unwavering commitment to their goals.

TV Mass time change for southern area

Effective March 8, 2026, and going forward, the time for the Televised Mass for the Homebound for viewers in the southern counties of the Diocese (Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry, Lee counties), has been changed to 8:30 a.m. on WFTX-TV (FOX-4). The change was beyond the control of the Diocese. Please check your cable provider for channel listings. The televised Mass is also always available online at dioceseofvenice.org or on YouTube. Visit dioceseofvenice.org/tv for more information or contact Rachel Powers at powers@dioceseofvenice.org.

Lenten Mission in Naples March 15-17

St. William Parish, 610 Seagate Drive, Naples, is hosting its Parish Lenten Mission with Dr. Marcellino D’Ambrosio “Dr. Italy” at 6 p.m. March 15, 2026, and continuing at 8:30 a.m., or 6 p.m. March 16, and concluding 8:30 a.m. or 6 p.m. March 17. The theme of the talk is: “The Lenten Journey: Tapping into Personal Victory, The Difference the Spirit Makes, and Prayer — A Pathway to Joy.” The presentations will be approximately 45 minutes each and will be followed by a book sale and reception on March 17. No registration required. All are invited to attend.

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 is 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.

Theology on Tap March 19

The next gathering of Theology on Tap for young adults in Sarasota is 7 p.m. March 19, 2026, at Oak & Stone, 5405 University Parkway. Theology on Tap is an evening of fellowship, faith and fun with other Catholic young adults in their 20’s and 30’s from across the Diocese to explore faith topics in a relaxed social setting. Don’t miss this chance to grow in faith, connect with others and enjoy an evening out with friends old and new. To learn more, contact Andres Prias at 941-441-1122, or prias@dioceseofvenice.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.

Annunciation presentation March 25 in Naples

St. William Parish, 610 Seagate Drive, Naples, is hosting a mini-conference with Dr. Edward Sri from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., March 25, 2026. The conference is presented by Dr. Edward Sri, and the theme, “Into His Likeness – Be Transformed as a Disciple of Christ!” is for the Feast of the Annunciation. The day includes a reception and noon Mass. No fees required. All are invited to attend

CPCI Gala March 28

Support Life! 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.

Diocesan-wide Reconciliation times March 27-28

Please note that the precept of confessing grave sins and receiving Holy Communion, at least once during the Lenten Season merits a reminder. To facilitate this requirement, in addition to regular Parish Confession hours, every Parish in the Diocese of Venice will be open with a confessor present 4 – 8 p.m., March 27, 2026, and 9 a.m. – noon, March 28. 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.

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.

Palm Sunday and Easter TV Mass to air at special times

The Televised Mass for the Homebound on Palm Sunday (March 29, 2026), and Easter Sunday (April 5 and celebrated by Bishop Frank J. Dewane), will air for a full hour on both Sundays. Because of the length, the time of the broadcast on these two Sundays will air at a special time. For viewers in the northern portions of the Diocese (DeSoto, Hardee, Highlands, Manatee, and Sarasota counties), the Masses will air at 10:30 a.m. on the CW Network. In the southern portions of the Diocese (Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry, Lee counties), the Masses will air at 8 a.m. on WFTX-TV (FOX-4). Please check your cable provider for channel listings. The televised Mass is also always available online at dioceseofvenice.org or on YouTube. Visit dioceseofvenice.org/tv for more information or contact Rachel Powers at powers@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.

Priests celebrating 50 years: Father Edward Blackwell, Father Vincente Clemente, Father Lawrence Esposito, Father Francis Hanlon, OSFS, Father Thomas Heck, Father Michael Orsi, and Father Timothy Sheedy.
Priests celebrating 25 years: Father Lorenzo Gonzalez, Father Philip Joly, Father Jacek Mazur, Father David Pignato, Father Philip Scheff, and Father David Vidal.
Deacon celebrating 25 years: Deacon Gary Ingold.

All are encouraged to attend in support of our clergy and to participate in this important Holy Week celebration.

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 various topics is offered throughout the retreat. In addition, the opportunity for Confession is available. Total cost is $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.

Catholic Health Care Ethics Conference April 11 in Fort Myers

Medical professionals, students, and interested laypeople are invited to the third annual Converging Roads health care ethics conference 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., April 11, 2026, at the Church of the Resurrection Parish, 8051 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers. The conference is themed, “The Dignified Mission of Catholic Health Care.” Join national and local experts either in person or online as they discuss topics such as “The Vocation to Palliative Care,” “The Benefits and Challenges of Artificial Intelligence in Health Care,” “Christian Anthropology and the Renewal of Medicine,” and more. Converging Roads is an initiative of the St. John Paul II Foundation and is presented collaboratively with the Diocese of Venice and Southwest Florida Guild of the Catholic Medical Association. Continuing education credits for health care professionals are available. To register, visit April 11, 2026 | Fort Myers, FL | Converging Roads – St. John Paul II Foundation. For more information, contact Taylor Briggs, Conference Coordinator, at 832-779-1070 or taylor@forlifeandfamily.org.

Boots & Bandanas April 24

Round up your friends and join Catholic Charities for a western-inspired evening supporting food security and education programs serving families across DeSoto county at Boot & Bandanas at 6 p.m., April 24, 2026, St. Paul Parish, 1330 E. Oak St., Arcadia. Tickets are $125. To purchase tickets or to become a sponsor please visit https://catholiccharitiesdov.org/events.

Ignatian Preached Retreat at OLPH May 8-11

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice is hosting an Ignatian Preached Retreat May 8-11, 2026. This three-night silent retreat will introduce participants to the great themes of the Spiritual Exercises in a group setting. The schedule includes conferences each day, daily Mass, and an opportunity to meet at least once with the retreat director for Confession and/or spiritual direction. Conference topics center on Ignatian spirituality, prayer, and discernment. Total cost is $525 per person for a private room and $360 per person for a shared room (retreatant to locate appropriate roommate where silence can be maintained). To register, please visit www.olph-retreat.org.

Charity Golf Tournament

The annual St. Mary Academy Golf Tournament has an 8:30 a.m. shotgun start May 16, 2026, at Heritage Harbour Golf Club, 8000 Stone Harbour Loop, Bradenton. The cost is $150 per player. Please call Connie Taft at 941-685-2108 to register or for sponsorship opportunities.

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.

2026 STREAM Symposium celebrates Catholic educators

Posted on March 6, 2026March 6, 2026 by Bob Reddy

Catholic school teachers and administrators gathered for the fifth annual STREAM (Science, Technology, Religion, Education, Arts and Mathematics) Symposium hosted by the Diocese of Venice Department of Education.

The Symposium took place on March 2, 2026, at the new Mote SEA (Science Education Aquarium) and included more than 500 teachers and administrators. The theme of the Symposium was “Beauty by Design: From the Sea to the Sistine Chapel: Celebrating God’s Artistry and Catholic Innovation.” Celebrating beauty is one of the core gifts of Christ.

Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocese of Venice Superintendent of Catholic Education, opened the day with the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. During the Mass, Father Belmonte praised the teachers and faculty for the love they have for their students and how courage is the strength given to each educator by the Lord to live out the mission of Catholic education, that is to introduce the Lord and Savior to the world.

Building on the theme of “Beauty by Design,” Father Belmonte said the Catholic faith teaches that beauty matters at a time when in nearly every aspect of contemporary culture there is a desire to spoil and ignore beauty creating an absence of prudence and good taste.

“Appreciate excellence. Celebrate it. Look at the world with reverence,” Father said. “Step from narcissism and see the truth and beauty within students. When you hear the Word of God, and hear wisdom proclaimed, you encounter and behold beauty.”

Using the sculpture The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa, by Gian Lorenzo Bernini located in the Church of Santa Maria della Vittoria in Rome, Father Belmonte said it is an example of beauty because it depicts an angel piercing the heart of Teresa with an arrow. “It is the arrowhead of evangelization,” Father continued. “Beauty pierces our hearts drawing our souls toward the one that is truth itself. The arrowhead is a symbol. It doesn’t bypass reason. It wounds. When you stand before something so beautiful, you see it and it touches us in ways we are normally not touched. These are the ways of evangelization – through paint or stone – so that people can come to know the experience of God and come to know Christ through art. For us as educators, dedicated to teaching children how to think and how to reason, beauty is something that can be a point of evangelization that we can use to draw them closer to God.”

Noelle Mering, a fellow at the Washington, D.C. Ethics and Public Policy Center, was the keynote speaker. A writer and author on culture, politics, and religion, Mering spoke about the challenge of finding beauty in everyday life. She noted that in a culture where beautiful things are everywhere, criticism seeks to point out flaws, even when they are not there. This new reality causes many to ignore the beauty of God’s creation, pushing them farther from their relationship with God.

The symposium had the unique backdrop of the beautiful new Mote SEA, with the conference room offering a view of the shark and stingray tank. A screen blocked the view of the tank during Mass, as well as for the presentations by Father Belmonte and Mering, but its beauty was later revealed.

The symposium is also an opportunity for the Education Office to present awards. Father Belmonte presented the Charitas Awards, the highest Diocesan Education award given to faculty and leadership for their constant exhibition and embodiment of the Virtue of Beauty. Recipients, nominated by their peers, are teachers and administrators who produce excellence in all that they do, including: radiates with care and compassion towards students and colleagues, treats others as brothers and sisters in Christ, embodies the Catholic Faith inside and outside the classroom, leads by example, and spreads Truth, Beauty and Goodness to those around them.

Teachers who have demonstrated leadership in STREAM and robotics education at their school were presented with a Blue Apple Award. The color blue in the Bible has been described by scholars as denoting the Holy Spirit and Truth or service to God, as well as the waters of the new creation in the Book of Genesis, and most importantly the color blue is associated with our Blessed Mother.

New this year was the Assisting in Leadership Award, recognizing assistant principals, deans and instructional leaders who maintain strength and are a steady presence in their respective schools while bridging the gap between vision and implementation of policy and programs. Each Catholic school principal was also presented with an award for the roles they play at their respective schools.

Additionally, Years of Service Awards were presented in categories of 5, 10, 15, 25, and 30 years. Johanna Meyers, of Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers, was presented the Legacy Award for her service to educating children for the past 35 years.

During the lunch break the educators had the opportunity to experience a 3-D virtual tour of the Sistine Chapel at the Vatican. This system, which uses virtual reality goggles to get an up-close view of the famous painting of Michelangelo, will be made available to Diocesan Catholic schools in the coming months.

In addition to Father Belmonte, the success of the symposium was attributed to Dr. Jennifer Falestiny, Diocese of Venice Director of Curriculum & Instruction, and Mary Burke, Administrative Assistant to the Department of Catholic Education. All participants received a packet which showcased different school STREAM projects, shining a light on the success and offering ideas to fellow educators. A drawing for fun gift baskets, donated by each school, was also held.

Following the symposium, many of the educators took a tour of the aquarium.

2026 STREAM Symposium Awards

Posted on March 6, 2026March 6, 2026 by Bob Reddy

The following is a recap of Diocese of Venice Catholic Schools award recipients. The awards were presented on March 2, 2026, at a STREAM Symposium which included all Diocesan Catholic School faculty and staff. Awards include years of service, leadership, excellence in STREAM education, and exemplars of Catholic Education.

Legacy Award

The Legacy Award for 2025 goes to a faculty member who has been a teacher in the Diocese of Venice for 35 years: Johanna Meyers of Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers.

Blue Apple Award

The Blue Apple Award is given to teachers who have demonstrated leadership and excellence in STREAM, technology, and innovation at their school. The color blue in the Bible has been used to described by scholars as denoting the Holy Spirit and Truth or service to God, as well as the waters of new creation in the book of Genesis, and most importantly the color blue is often associated with our Blessed Mother.

Teachers receiving the 2026 Blue Apple STREAM Leadership awards and nominated by the principals of the Diocese of Venice are: Trisha Calfee, Bishop Verot Catholic High School, Fort Myers; Julie Cardena and Natalie Ruta, Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School, Sarasota; Landon Fulmer and Elizabeth Kohr, Donahue Academy of Ave Maria Parish, Ave Maria; Kim Kassin, Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School, Venice; Nicole Asay, Incarnation Catholic School, Sarasota; Maureen Leigh and Angela Sarnac, St. Andrew Catholic School, Cape Coral; Karen Olsen, St. Ann Catholic School, Naples; Jennifer Williams and Marissa McCarthy, St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School, Port Charlotte; Megan Van Wart and Ana Ozores, St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School, Naples; Mindy Pfleger and Stacie Delacuesta, St. Francis Xavier Catholic School, Fort Myers; Susan Caveness, St. John Neumann Catholic High School, Naples; Blaire Hamric, St. Joseph Catholic School, Bradenton; Maria Paben, St. Martha Catholic School, Sarasota; and Michella Aippersbach, St. Mary Academy, Sarasota.

Charitas (Crystal Cross Award)

The Crystal Cross Award is the highest Diocese of Venice Department of Education award given to teachers and faculty of Diocese of Venice Catholic schools. Crystal Cross Award recipients are nominated by their peers and colleagues as exemplars in Catholic education. Crystal Cross Award recipients are considered as teachers or administrators who:

Produce excellence in all that they do (teaching, leading, etc.),
Radiate with care and compassion towards students and colleagues,
Treat others as brothers and sisters in Christ,
Embodies the Catholic Faith inside and outside the classroom,
Leads by example,
Spreads Truth, Beauty and Goodness to those around them.

Recipients are: John Gadomski and Margaret Kennedy, Bishop Verot Catholic High School; Jaime Patmor, Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School; Carol Hart and Amy Gawron, Donahue Academy of Ave Maria Parish; Elise Filbrandt, Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School; Alexandra Kern, Incarnation Catholic School; Bethany Gunn and Colleen Mattfeld, St. Andrew Catholic School; Elizabeth Benito, St. Ann Catholic School; Elizabeth Costa, St. Catherine Catholic School; Kim Smith, St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School; Moise Staël Dantes, St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School; Lindsay Engel, St. Francis Xavier Catholic School; Andy Niewedde, St. John Neumann Catholic High School; Mary Ellen Tavernier, St. Joseph Catholic School; Leslie Lambert and Tammi Peters, St. Martha Catholic School; and Kelcee English, St. Mary Academy.

Years of Service honorees

5 years of Service:

Michelle Aippersbach and Christine Coolidge, St. Mary Academy; Patrick Barock, Melanie Blake, Leyda Calvillo, Dixie Kreulen, and Janette Sanchez, St. Catherine Catholic School; Barbara Baez and Courtney Knowles, St. Martha Catholic School; Kate Hart, St. Joseph Catholic School; Stacey Berkow and Taylor Gaither, Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School; Gerard Cantwell, Louis Fornaris, and SueEllen Patkunas, St. John Neumann Catholic High School; Angela Currier, Linda Pasquarello, Brianna Rodriguez, Katie Scarantino, Kelly Sanders, and Jennifer Townsend, St. Ann Catholic School; Courtney Daily, Melissa Fetterman, Bianca George and Ryan Krause, Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School; Allison (Denison) Priviette, St. Francis Xavier Catholic School; Felicia Linden, Yania Martinez, and Janelle Zingaro, St. Andrew Catholic School; Megan Van Wart, St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School; Kristy Vizzone, St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School; and Amy Yager, Incarnation Catholic School.

10 years of Service:

Andrea Bach, Incarnation Catholic School; Ron DelaCuesta and David Zukin, Bishop Verot Catholic High School; Amy Gawron, Donahue Academy of Ave Maria Parish; Kelly Givens and Randal Hedel, Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School; Jeffrey Jodice and Greg Morgan, St. Francis Xavier Catholic School; Ellen Smith, St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School; Dr. Marc Snyder, Donahue Academy of Ave Maria Parish; and Jeanine Francois-Gonzalez, St. John Neumann Catholic High School.

15 years of Service:

Elizabeth Davis and Andrea Tonitis, St. Martha Catholic School; Sara Delapaz, St. Catherine Catholic School; Juli Ferguson, St. Joseph Catholic School; Camile Nieves, St. Francis Xavier Catholic School; Sister Patricia Roche, FMA, and Jam Stryfeller, St. John Neumann Catholic High School; and Rebecca Reynolds, St. Mary Academy.

25 years of Service: Deanna Breen, Bishop Verot Catholic High School; Stephanie Rode, St. Andrew Catholic School; Evelyn Velasquez, St. Francis Xavier Catholic School.

30 years of Service: Shannon Dalton, Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School, Suzie O’Grady, Bishop Verot Catholic High School.

Assisting in Leadership Award

The Assisting in Leadership Award, new to 2026, is for assistant principals, deans and instructional leaders who bridge the gap between vision and implementation. Recipients are: Kate Hamstra, Matt Hiller, Christina Miller and Christine Otis, Bishop Verot Catholic High School; Stefan Gates, Dr. Matthew Ittig and Carol Cassidy, Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School; Andrea Bach, Incarnation Catholic School; Tim Roder and Deacon Edward Watson, Donahue Academy of Ave Maria Parish; Andrew Hamstra and Kelley Tucker, St. Andrew Catholic School; Nick Lahr, St. Ann Catholic School; Jim Reynolds and Monica Nelson, St. Francis Xavier Catholic School; Elizabeth Davis, St. Martha Catholic School; Kiawania Heard, St. Mary Academy; Barbara Guerra, St. Joseph Catholic School; Dr. Donna Noonan and Dr. Benjamin Weber, St. John Neumann Catholic High School; Nissa Mitchell, St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School; Dr. Judy Dickinson, St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School; and Christna Tylka, Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School.

School Leadership Recognition

School principals of the 2025-2026 school year:

Suzie O’Grady, Bishop Verot Catholic High School; Ben Hopper, Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School; Roberto Pugliares, Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School; Amy Yager, Incarnation Catholic School; Dr. Marc Snyder, Donahue Academy at Ave Maria; Bambi Giles, St. Andrew Catholic School; Micah O’Connor, St. Ann Catholic School; Steven Cullipher, St. Catherine Catholic School; Amy Barron, St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School; Dr. Marcel Brown, St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School; John Gulley, St. Francis Xavier Catholic School; Sister Patricia Roche, FMA, St. John Neumann Catholic High School; Tom Noonan, St. Joseph Catholic School; Mari Jo Hanson, St. Martha Catholic School; and Rebecca Reynolds, St. Mary Academy.

Parish celebrates Feast Day Consecrated to Blessed Virgin Mary

Posted on March 6, 2026 by Bob Reddy

The faithful of Our Lady of Light Parish in Fort Myers celebrated their Feast Day Feb. 27, 2026, and at the same time the Parish was consecrated to Our Lady of Light.

Father Eric Scanlan, Pastor of Our Lady of Light, opened the Friday Mass explaining that when he was appointed by Bishop Frank J. Dewane to the Parish in January, he immediately looked up information about the patroness. There are only six Parishes that hold the name of Our Lady of Light in the world. The others are in Ohio, California, Mexico, where the original image resides today, the Philippines, and Brazil.

“It is a beautiful title with an interesting history,” Father Scanlan explained.

The origin of the title dates to the 18^th century, when in Palermo, Sicily (now in the country Italy), Jesuit Father Giovanni Antonio Genovesi, seeking an appropriate image of Our Lady to bring on his missionary work to Mexico, consulted a nun, whose vision was of the Virgin Mary surrounded by intense light, holding the Child Jesus, and rescuing a soul from the jaws of a demon.

Referring to the image of Our Lady of Light, Father Scanlan said Our Lady is the image that all mothers can relate to, as she is shown juggling tasks while remaining composed and loving. “While holding Jesus, she is saving us at the same time,” Father said. “It is a beautiful source of life – a tenderness and goodness – an invitation to deepen our relationship to Our Lady as we seek to grow in our faith.”

Though not favored by many Jesuits, in 1732 the image ended up in León, Mexico, where it immediately gained great popularity. Today, the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Light stands as testimony to the lasting impact of Our Lady on the community.

Father Scanlan said the image also reminded him of the Prologue to the Gospel of John 1:4-5, “the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”

“This speaks to the victory of good over evil, grace over our weak humanness,” Father said. “Mary provides loving maternal tender presence on our spiritual journey. At the crucifixion, Jesus says to John, ‘Behold your mother,’ then to Mary, ‘Behold your son.’ It is an invitation for all of us to deepen that relationship with Mary; to help lead us to her son Jesus to save us from sin.”

Because the Feast Day fell within Lent, Father Scanlan said he had to do some research to ensure the celebration met with Church norms. In this case, because the Feast Day celebration was for the Parish patroness, Our Lady of Light, the Mass and readings superseded what would usually be used for the Friday of the First Week of Lent.

Before the closing prayer, Father Scanlan knelt before an image of Our Lady, placed near the altar for the Feast Day Mass, and led the faithful, more than 600, in the Prayer of Consecration of the Parish and people to Mary, Our Lady of Light.

Afterwards, many thanked Father Scanlan for celebrating the Feast Day Mass and for the added blessing of the consecration.

Catherine Major, a seasonal resident from New Jersey, was nearly moved to tears by the Prayer of Consecration, saying it was one of the most powerful moments she has had at a Mass in a long time. “This was really wonderful,” Major said. “I have a strong devotion to Our Lady. My family Parish is Our Lady of Mercy, so the Blessed Virgin has always had special place in my heart. But this was special, and more so because there were so many people here to be a part of this moment. Beautiful.”

Following the Mass, there was a reception in the Parish Hall.

25th Our Mother’s House Wine Tasting and Dinner Dance a success

Posted on March 6, 2026 by Bob Reddy

The 25th annual Our Mother’s House Wine Tasting Auction and Dinner Dance was a huge success and held Feb. 26, 2026, at the Plantation Golf and Country Club in Venice.

The event proceeds go directly to Our Mother’s House of Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice, Inc., a 2-year transitional living program located in the heart of Venice, dedicated to empowering single mothers and their children. The program’s mission is to offer single homeless mothers and their preschool-age children a safe and secure environment to achieve increased self-sufficiency through education, vocational training, and personal growth. Since its founding in 1987, the program has assisted more than 600 mothers and their children, including 73 in 2025.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane expressed his gratitude to those who attended the event, many of whom have supported the program for many years. The Bishop noted that the 25 years of events had a profound impact on the women and children served.

“Some of the stories from the mothers are incredible, and the difference the program made in their lives is thanks, in no small part, to your generosity and for that I thank you,” Bishop Dewane said.

Christopher M. Root, CEO of Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice, said Our Mother’s House reaches out to help the mothers be the best mothers they can be. In addition to all the direct support Our Mother’s House provides to the mothers and their children, Root said, “We are giving them the one thing they will carry with them forever, the love we share with them, the love of Christ that we give them that they can take to eternal life and that is endlessly shared with everyone with whom they come in contact.”

Our Mother’s House has 21 housing units and is run on the profound belief in the inherent strength and resilience of every mother. The program provides a safe and nurturing environment where mothers can find hope, stability, and the tools needed to build a brighter future. A dedicated team of case managers is committed to addressing the unique challenges faced by single mothers, offering comprehensive support services. Through a holistic approach, the team strives to break the cycle of poverty and homelessness, empowering mothers to become self-sufficient, confident, and independent. Together, the staff, volunteers and benefactors, are creating a haven of love, support, and empowerment, where every mother and child can thrive and flourish.

“Our Mother’s House is a new beginning, a place to start over again, a fresh outlook on life,” said Brooke, a resident.

The impact of Our Mother’s House is clear: 100 percent of mothers are employed; 87 percent are enrolled in or completed vocation certification of job training; 50 percent are enrolled in degree-seeking programs; 100 percent participate in counseling and life skills programming to address trauma, parenting, and financial literacy struggles. On average, the mothers leave the program with personal savings that can help build a bright future for them and their children, and nearly all exit the program into safe and stable housing (98 percent).

Sarah, a recent resident, came into the program after being homeless and living in her car with her 1-year-old. In just a short period of time being in the program she has become gainfully employed, attends classes to get her associate’s degree, and participates fully in each life skills class to achieve her goals. Sarah also goes to counseling and is saving money for her own place after Our Mother’s House. “Watching her and her child blossom has been such a gift and testament to our mission here,” said a case worker.

If you are interested in volunteering or helping Our Mother’s House, please call 941-485-6264 or email omh@catholiccharitiesdov.org. If you would like to make a financial donation, please visit https://catholiccharitiesdov.org/donate.

Volunteers help pack hundreds of through of meals for starving children

Posted on March 6, 2026 by Bob Reddy

From Feb. 15-17, 2026, 953 volunteers, including many students from Diocese of Venice Catholic Schools, gathered for the annual Feed My Starving Children MobilePack at St. Katharine Drexel Parish in Cape Coral.

The food packing supports Feed My Starving Children, a Christian hunger relief organization that has volunteers pack and pay for scientifically formulated meals, which assist in preventing and reversing the effects of malnutrition, and are provided free to organizations around the world. St. Katherine Drexel partnered with Christ Lutheran and Trinity Lutheran churches in raising the funds for the food, as well as organizing volunteers to come together to pack the food.

The results were amazing, with 233,280 meals packed thanks to the help of 953 volunteers. In the nine years St. Katherine Drexel has participated in the MobilePack program, more than 1.6 million meals have been packed.

Volunteers ranged in age from teens to their 80s. This year the volunteer corps included 30 National Junior Honor Society students from St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral, and 10 National Honors Society students from Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers. This was in addition to more than 40 from the Parish youth group, and many from neighboring Trafalgar Middle School. The youth learned a valuable lesson, that by working together, combined with others, they could accomplish much in a short period of time, including having an impact on the lives of children around the world.

Father Ricky Varner was among the packers at the event. He also offered moral support and prayers for the volunteers and for the recipients of the food.

The food packing took place in the Parish Hall. Each volunteer wears a hair net and latex gloves and is part of a team stationed at a group of tables where the packing is set up in an assembly line. Each person takes a different role including measuring, filling, sealing and weighing, but all working together to pack the food efficiently and quickly. The ingredients are pre-determined with the use of measuring devices. Once a bag is filled, it is sealed and packed into a box and eventually loaded onto pallets that will fill a semi-trailer.

According to Feed My Starving Children, hunger causes nearly half of the world’s deaths in children under five years old. From this data, Feed My Starving Children estimates at least 6,200 children die each day from causes related to undernutrition. The organization has sent food to 110 countries since March 2009.

Barth and Mary Jo Wolf, event organizers for St. Katherine Drexel Parish, said the event was a huge success and the next packing event, which they hope will be bigger than this year, is already scheduled for the weekend of Feb. 14-16, 2027.