Bob Reddy, Author at Diocese of Venice

Area Catholic Schools Blessed with New Leaders

Posted on August 9, 2024August 9, 2024 by Bob Reddy

Bishop Dewane Names Five New Principals for the Diocese of Venice

By Karen Barry Schwarz, Special to the Florida Catholic

Five area Catholic schools will begin the academic year with a new principal at the helm. Bishop Frank J. Dewane has recently named school principals at Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School, Venice; St. Ann Catholic School, Naples; St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School, Port Charlotte; St. Andrew Catholic School, Cape Coral; and St. Catherine Catholic School, Sebring.

“The Diocese of Venice is blessed to have new principals with not only extensive Catholic school leadership experience, but also such great enthusiasm for the faith,” said Bishop Dewane. “I believe these are the leaders who will help our Catholic school students learn to cultivate every dimension of their lives for the glory of God.”

“We look for educational leaders who themselves are exemplary Catholic role models, bearing witness to the Gospel every day,” added Rev. John Belmonte, S.J., Superintendent of Catholic Education for the Diocese of Venice. “In addition to providing an excellent academic experience, these new principals will help our students to be formed as disciples of Christ, in an unapologetically Catholic environment.”

Three of the newly appointed principals are new to Florida, while two have been promoted from within the Diocese of Venice Catholic Schools.

Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School’s new principal Deacon Michael Pipitone comes to Venice from Wisconsin, where he was principal at St. Peter’s Catholic School in Middleton. Deacon Pipitone has 23 years of Catholic School experience, as both a teacher and principal, and is a Permanent Deacon, ordained to the Diaconate in the Diocese of Rockford in 2018. He is also a Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus.

St. Ann Catholic School in Naples new principal Micah O’Connor joins St. Ann’s from West Virginia, where she was principal of Our Lady of Fatima School. Ms. O’Connor has more than 16 years of combined education experience as a teacher and principal.

Amy Barron joins St. Charles Borromeo in Port Charlotte from New York City, where she served as both a Catholic School teacher and principal for the last 23 years, most recently as Principal at St. Mel’s Catholic Academy in Flushing, NY.

“I believe that children are our greatest gifts from God,” said Mrs. Barron. “They are tomorrow’s big thinkers, problem solvers and leaders. I am excited to begin this new chapter in my life with my family here in Florida and to serve the St. Charles Borromeo School and community. It is my goal to enable the children to stay grounded in their faith yet reach for the stars.”

Two of the new principals were named from within the Diocese of Venice Catholic Schools. St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral will be led by Bambi Giles, who has extensive Catholic School teaching experience, and has served as St. Andrew’s assistant principal for the last seven years. Steven Cullipher will take the reins as interim principal at St. Catherine Catholic School in Sebring, where he has been a teacher for the last six years, and a parishioner for 10.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to work with Father Jose, the outstanding team of faculty and staff of St. Catherine Catholic School, and to be able to serve them and the students and families of our student community,” said Cullipher.

Four of the five schools with new leadership serve children in grades pre-K through 8^th; St. Ann’s teaches Kindergarten through 8^th. The five schools represent only a third of the Catholic schools within the Diocese of Venice, which serve about 6,000 students in 15 schools, pre-K through 12^th grade.

Catholic education in Florida has grown radically over the last decade, due most recently and in part to the state’s School Choice program, and Diocese of Venice Catholic schools have enjoyed the largest enrollment growth of any Diocese in Florida. All 15 Diocese of Venice Catholic schools are at capacity, many with waiting pools.

According to the National Catholic Education Association’s (NCEA) United States Catholic Elementary and Secondary Schools 2023 – 2024: Annual Statistical Report on Schools, Enrollment and Staffing report, current numbers indicate that Catholic school enrollment is steady, and families continue to send their children to Catholic schools even when they move from one region of the country to another.

“Catholic schools continue the legacy that has characterized Catholic education for generations,” reported the NCEA. “Academic excellence, a strong sense of community and a faith-filled education for students nationwide.”

Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School, Venice – Deacon Michael Pipitone

Deacon Michael Pipitone joins Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School with 23 years of Catholic school experience, both as a teacher and principal at the elementary and high school levels. Most recently he was Principal at St. Peter’s Catholic School in Middleton, Wisconsin in the Madison Diocese. Deacon Pipitone earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from St. Mary’s University in Winona, Minnesota. He was born and raised in Rockford, Illinois where he began his teaching career at Marian Catholic High School. He is a Permanent Deacon, ordained to the Diaconate in the Rockford Diocese in 2018. He holds a certificate in Bioethics from Holy Apostles College, Connecticut, and is presently completing his Doctorate in Theology from Pontifex University. Deacon Pipitone is married to Jeanna (22 years) and has three children: twin sons, Michael Joe and Luke, who are college sophomores, and daughter Gianna who will be a high school freshman in the fall. In addition to his educational accomplishments and academic pursuits, Deacon Pipitone is a fourth degree Knight of Columbus and a former dairy farmer which is where he says he learned the value of hard work.

St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School, Port Charlotte – Amy Barron

As a product of Catholic schools, Amy has dedicated most of her career to Catholic education within the Diocese of Brooklyn in New York, where she served for more than 20 years. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Rider University (NJ, 1996), a Master of Education (Queens College, 2001), and a Master of Education Leadership from Fordham University (Bronx, NY 2018). Amy began teaching 5^th grade at St. Brigid School in Brooklyn, NY where she taught science and religion. After nine years at St. Brigid, Amy moved up to teaching on the high school level and for the next 13 years taught biology, psychology and anatomy at St. Joseph High School, an all-girls Catholic high school also in Brooklyn, NY. While at St. Joseph High School, Amy served as Student Advisory Facilitator, Science Department Chairperson, Dean of Faculty, and eventually Assistant Principal. In 2019, Amy took on the Principal role at St. Mel’s Catholic Academy in Flushing, NY where she served for the past five years. Amy has been married for 20 years and met her husband while working at Brigid School (he was the physical education teacher). The Barrons have two teenage daughters (18 and 15). She loves baseball and animals and is looking forward to her family’s new life in Florida.

St. Ann Catholic School, Naples – Micah O’Connor

Micah O’Connor has more than 16 years of combined experience as a teacher and principal. Having previously served as Principal of Our Lady Fatima in Huntington, West Virginia for six successful years, Ms. O’Connor has a proven track record of fostering academic growth and creating a supportive learning environment. Before assuming the Principal role, Ms. O’Connor spent a decade as a dedicated teacher, shaping students’ minds and instilling a love for learning. Ms. O’Connor holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education, a Master of Arts degree in Elementary Education, and a Certification in School Principalship from Marshall University, demonstrating a commitment to ongoing professional development and leadership excellence.

St. Andrew Catholic School, Cape Coral – Bambi Giles

Bambi Giles has served as Assistant Principal for seven years at St. Andrew Catholic School and has extensive teaching experience including roles as fifth-grade teacher, middle school English/language arts teacher, and Resource Coordinator. Bambi holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education with a minor in Health Education from Plymouth State University in New Hampshire and a Master of Science in Educational Leadership from Arkansas State University.

St. Catherine Catholic School, Sebring – Steven Cullipher

After a successful career in the theatre and television lighting industry, Steven Cullipher retired from the lighting industry in 2014 and relocated to Sebring and began attending St. Catherine Parish. He attended South Florida State College, receiving an Associate Bachelor of Arts degree, Summa Cum Laude, and a Bachelor of Applied Science in Supervision and Management. While attending South Florida State College, he began his career in education, progressing from AVID tutor, to substitute teacher, to instructional paraprofessional, and finally to elementary teacher. In 2018, Fr. Jose Gonzalez, V.F. expressed the need for a third-grade teacher for St. Catherine Catholic School and Mr. Cullipher answered the call. While teaching third grade at St. Catherine, he completed his Master of Education in Educational Leadership at the American College of Education and has served the last three years as Assistant Principal. Mr. Cullipher and his wife have two adult children, one granddaughter, with another granddaughter on the way. Mr. Cullipher states, “I am honored to for the opportunity to work with Father Jose, the outstanding team of faculty and staff of St. Catherine Catholic School, and to be able to serve them and the students and families of our school community.”

New Catholic school year begins Aug. 12

Posted on August 9, 2024 by Bob Reddy

The excitement is building as the faculty and staff at the 15 Diocese of Venice Catholic schools prepare lesson plans and decorate classrooms for the start of the 2024-2025 Academic Year on Aug. 12, 2024.

More than 80 new teachers were welcomed during an Aug. 2 orientation session at San Pedro Parish in North Port which was presented by the Diocesan Office of Catholic Education, and featured Superintendent Father John Belmonte, SJ, and Jennifer Falestiny, Director of Curriculum. The large number of new teachers is due to continued rapid increase in enrollment throughout the Diocese.

Father Belmonte first led the group in prayer and offered a brief history of Catholic schools in Florida and the Diocese of Venice. Father Belmonte stressed the need for the new employees to be “Catholic School Culture” advocates in whatever role they may have in the different schools. A “Catholic School Culture” is the vision, values, systems, language, expectations, behaviors, and beliefs that increase a school’s and Diocese’s chances of accomplishing the strategy of fulfilling its mission: to introduce the world to its Savior.

“To achieve this, each teacher must make their classroom a place of theological reflection, because this is where you will pray for them and challenge them to grow in their faith,” Father Belmonte said. ““In your classroom, in your school, in your heart; everything is sacred. Everything is given to us by God. It all has value. That is what we believe. You will learn from your own students about the faith, and together you will strive to help them to achieve the ultimate goal, that is to ascend to heaven.”

As Catholic school teachers, they must work to inspire, challenge and protect their students in the classroom where everything is sacred and holy, Father Belmonte continued. This includes all of those who teach, Father Belmonte said, including those who teach subjects other than religion or theology.

“We want each of our students to have meaning and purpose in their life by learning the sacredness of themselves,” Father Belmonte said. “You can do this by giving them the ‘best day of their life,’ every day.”

Throughout the day, the new teachers learned about the Diocese and the crucial role they will play in helping to build up the faith life of the students and families with whom they will interact. The group comes to the Diocese of Venice Catholic schools with a wide variety of personal and professional experiences and skills. A few in the group are new to teaching and were joyfully welcomed. Still others have many years of experience.

Falestiny explained that the Diocesan Catholic schools “do things better than other school systems. We have lots of programs and procedures in place that might seem overwhelming but they each serve a purpose, and you will get it eventually.”

The new teachers join the Diocese at a time of record enrollment at each school, with extensive waiting pools at several. Final numbers are expected to exceed 6,200 this year, representing a growth of more than 40 percent in the last four years.

Teachers at all 15 Diocesan Catholic schools work 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.

During the orientation, the new teachers also took part in Diocesan Safe Environment training and learned about their employee benefits, risk management, workplace safety, certification process, as well as about standard and ethical conduct.

All Diocesan Catholic schools will open the week of Aug. 12. For more information about Diocese of Venice Catholic Schools, please visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/offices/offices-departments/education/.

News Briefs for the week of August 9, 2024

Posted on August 9, 2024August 9, 2024 by Bob Reddy

Appointments

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

Father Hugh J. McGuigan, O.S.F.S., relieved of his appointment as a member of the College of Consultors, effective July 1, 2024.

Msgr. Patrick Dubois, V.F., as a new member to the College of Consultors, effective July 1, 2024.

Father Simon Hoang Minh Dao, CRM, relieved of his duties as Parochial Vicar and Chaplain for the Vietnamese Community at St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers, effective July 13, 2024, and thus has returned to his Religious Community.

Father Joseph Than Van Liem, CRM, as Parochial Vicar and Chaplain for the Vietnamese Community at St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers, effective July 13, 2024.

Diocese celebrates 40th anniversary

On July 17, 1984, the Diocese of Venice was erected by St. John Paul II from parts of the Archdiocese of Miami, Diocese of Orlando and the Diocese of St. Petersburg. To celebrate the occasion of the Diocese’s 40^th anniversary, the staff of the Diocesan Catholic Center gathered with Bishop Frank J. Dewane for a group photo in front of the Chancery on July 26, 2024, and then attended a special Mass for the staff, celebrated by Bishop Dewane, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center. A celebratory luncheon followed.

Diocese weathers Debby

Torrential rain and strong winds battered parts of the Diocese of Venice when Hurricane Debby paralleled the coast on Aug. 3-5, 2024. While there was flooding at many properties in Sarasota and Manatee Counties, Diocesan Parish and Catholic school staff worked hard to mitigate the impacts of any water intrusion. One of the starkest examples of flooding was found at Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School in Sarasota which had several feet of water on their fields after an estimated 16-inches of rain fell. Ss. Peter and Paul the Apostle Parish in Bradenton had a leak in one of its buildings, which caused minor damage. Flood waters surrounded Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice but did not cause any damage. The retreat center was devastated by extreme flooding in 2022 during Hurricane Ian.

Marriage retreat held in Lake Placid

The Dialogo Matrimonial MDS retreat took place the weekend of Aug. 3-5, 2024, in Lake Placid. The purpose of the group is to support and assist in the spiritual growth of couples and marriages. Marriage Dialogue is a weekend experience starting Friday afternoon through Sunday afternoon. This experience gives couples the opportunity to celebrate their married life by giving them time to share their feelings, hopes, joys, frustrations, sorrows, and dreams in a completely private atmosphere and out of reach of the stresses and distractions of daily life. During the weekend there are talks given by a team of trained couples. Each talk provides an opportunity for spouses to first see themselves as individuals different from each other, then to see their marriage and relationship as a couple, and finally to develop other areas of their married life. In the movement the motto is: “With Jesus everything is possible, and it is not necessary to change your partner, you just need to change your attitude.” All topics of the retreat have as reference the Word of God, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, as well as other relevant books and resources.

Catholic Charities Summertime Appeal continues

Every day, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., serves the most vulnerable population in the 10 counties that constitute the Diocese of Venice by feeding, housing, empowering, and helping all in need. This summer, you can be the one that makes a difference. Your acts of kindness have the power to transform lives and leave a positive impact in our community. The Catholic Charities “Summertime and the Giving is Easy” Appeal is asking for your support. Any gift will make a positive impact on our less fortunate brothers and sisters! To donate to Summertime and the Giving is Easy Campaign, please visit www.catholiccharitiesdov.org or mail a check to Catholic Charities, “Summertime and the Giving is Easy,” 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34285.

Theology on Tap on August 15 in Sarasota

The next Theology on Tap, an outreach to young adults, is 7 p.m., Aug. 15, 2024, in a new location, Big Top Brewing – Restaurant & Brewery, 3045 Fruitville Commons Boulevard, Sarasota. Theology on Tap meets on the third Thursday of each month. The featured speaker for August 15 is Jim Gontis, Diocese of Venice Director of Evangelization, and the topic will be “Four Marian Dogmas.” Theology on Tap is presented by the Diocesan Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry. For more information, contact Andres Prias at prias@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-484-9543.

New Podcast Focuses on Amendment 4

The podcast of the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops, Catholics Across the Aisle: Commentary on Public Policy and Civic Life, brings a non-partisan moral voice to public dialogue on key policy issues of the day and assists listeners to become educated and active participants in civic life. The podcast’s latest episode focuses on the urgent issue of Amendment 4. Sara Johnson, statewide grassroots director for Vote No on 4 Florida, and Michele Taylor, FCCB’s associate director for communications, discuss deceptive and extreme Amendment 4. This amendment on Florida’s general election ballot would allow late-term abortions and jeopardize health and safety protections for women and minors. It removes doctors from the abortion decision, includes a broad “health” loophole, and eliminates parental consent. Hear more on why Floridians should vote NO on Amendment 4 on this new episode of Catholics Across the Aisle.

Convocation invigorates seminarians – Many new faces discerning priesthood

Posted on July 26, 2024 by Bob Reddy

For three days each summer there is a gathering of men of different ages and backgrounds, each dedicated to a common goal – continuing their spiritual journey with a focus on becoming a Diocesan priest.

Some are in a seminary college formation program, while others are in advanced programs farther along in their journey, with potential Ordination to the Priesthood not too far off.

During the annual Diocese of Venice Seminarian Convocation at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice (July 22-24, 2024), the men spent time praying, reflecting on their choice of vocation, while also sharing their thoughts and their personal journey with others who are on the same path.

There are currently a total of 18 men discerning a call to the priesthood as a Diocese of Venice seminarian, a large number considering the size of the Diocese. Bishop Frank J. Dewane said the Diocese is blessed to have such a large group of seminarians and thanked the men for answering the called to discern a vocation to the priesthood.

Bishop Dewane celebrated a Mass for the seminarians on July 24. During the Mass, the Bishop encouraged the men to continue to hear the call to holiness of Our Lord in their prayers, while reflecting Christ in the life they live.

The Bishop also stressed the need to make progress both emotionally and spiritually as they progress in their studies and discernment,

“You need to progress from ‘I feel,’ to ‘I am convinced,” about the call of the Lord in your life,” Bishop Dewane said. “It is critical to know yourself – your strengths and weaknesses – to continue in your discernment. It is about looking at our own conscience and asking the Lord for the strength to live, to discern, to listen, and to look back and grow as a person, but more importantly in your faith so that you can look forward guided by the Lord.”

Bishop Dewane said the goal of the discernment process is not only to educate the men, but it is also to allow the time to slow their lives down and let the clutter go away so that they can clearly hear the call of the Lord. The way to do this is through becoming men of deep prayer.

“A meaningful prayer life is something that you will develop and will become a dominant aspect of your life,” Bishop Dewane concluded. “Let prayer help the seeds planted by the Lord grow within you. Just like the seeds in the field, it takes many things to grow, including the will and recognition of the grace of God in your life.”

The multi-day retreat occurs late in the summer as a time of prayer and reflection before each return to their respective seminary. During the three days, the seminarians were led by Father Alex Pince, Diocesan Vocations Director.

With the group assigned to four different seminaries, and with several beginning their vocation journey, the gathering is an opportunity for those early in their formation process to hear from those who are further along. This mentoring helps in building a bond amongst the group, aiding each to appreciate that the discernment process is not only accomplished in the classroom but through the entire experience in seminary, during Parish pastoral assignments, and in their personal life.

Seminarian Joseph Doherty, who attends Pontifical North American College in Rome, said it was inspiring to see the other men making progress while also seeing so many new faces.

“It is great to see that we have a large group of new men who are answering their call to a vocation to the priesthood,” Doherty said. He is scheduled to be ordained to the Transitional Diaconate on Oct. 3 in Rome. This is a major milestone before priestly ordination.

A recent highlight for the seminarians was witnessing the June 8 Ordination to the Priesthood of Father Greg Dougherty, with many of the men present to help serve the Mass. This allowed the men to see one of their fellow seminarians reach a goal they are working to attain in the future.

Diocese of Venice Seminarians are supported through the Diocese Catholic Faith Appeal, the Knights of Columbus and the generosity of the faithful.

Parishioners from around the Diocese are encouraged to help support the seminarians in their studies and choice of vocations. To support a seminarian, send a check to the Diocese of Venice, Office of Vocations, 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34285.

For more information about the seminarians or Vocations, contact Father Alex Pince at pince@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-484-9543, or visit www.venicevocations.com.

The Diocese of Venice seminarians and their seminaries are as follows:

Transitional Deacon Jacob Gwynn, St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary, Boynton, Beach;
Transitional Deacon Patrick Long, St. John XXIII National Seminary, Weston, Massachusetts;
Ryan Arciero, St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary;
Alexander Baugh, Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary;
Andres Cordero, St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary;
Joseph Doherty, Pontifical North American College, Rome;
Nolan Fitzpatrick; St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary;
Terry Gastauer; Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary;
Jesse Gomez; St. John Vianney College Seminary, Miami;
Sebastian Harding; St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary;
Domenic Jahnke; St. John Vianney College Seminary;
Tobias Lopez, St. John Vianney College Seminary’
Patrick Mulhall, St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary;
Brian (Bao) Nguyen, St. John XXIII National Seminary;
Doroteo Rodgriguez, St. John Vianney College Seminary;
Tam Tram, St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary;
Alain Valdivia, St. John Vianney College Seminary;
Lam Vo, St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary.

Prayer for Vocations

God our Father, we thank you for calling men and women to serve in your Son’s Kingdom as priests, deacons, religious, and consecrated persons. Send your Holy Spirit to help us respond generously and courageously to your call. May our community of faith support vocations of sacrificial love in our youth. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

Amen.

Bishop and large Diocesan contingent participate in National Eucharistic Congress

Posted on July 26, 2024July 26, 2024 by Bob Reddy

A group of more than 70 from across the Diocese of Venice joined Bishop Frank J. Dewane in taking part in a pilgrimage to the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis, Indiana, from July 17-21, 2024.

They were among the estimated 60,000 participants in the 10th National Eucharistic Congress, an epic conclusion to a three-year National Eucharistic Revival promoted by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

Upon arrival in Indianapolis, the pilgrims saw signs in English and Spanish which proclaimed at the airport, “In Indy as in Heaven,” and “Some Baggage Should be Left Behind;” “These Roads Lead to Revival,” on an crossover bridge leading into the stadium; and a huge sign of “Revival Starts Here,” draped on the front of the stadium. Inside the stadium, the pilgrims were also reminded that “Revival Can’t Stay Here.” This was the message of the closing session which encouraged everyone to carry the Good News of the Lord back to their homes, their Parishes, their Dioceses, and into the world.

Bishop Dewane hosted dinner with the pilgrims during a reception at the Conrad Hotel on July 18. There he offered his prayers that each would gain from the experience and to take the message learned to heart. Throughout the Congress, Bishop Dewane tried to attend as many sessions and see as many of the Diocesan pilgrims as possible.

Among the Diocesan pilgrims were three priests, Msgr. Patrick Dubois, Rector of Epiphany Cathedral in Venice; Father Jiobani Batista, Pastor of St. Jude Parish in Sarasota; and Father Joseph Gates of St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Parish in Parrish. Four Permanent Deacons and their wives also participated. Additionally, youth from St. John XXIII and Our Lady of Light Parishes in Fort Myers were able to take part. The Diocesan pilgrimage was coordinated by the Diocesan Evangelization Office and led by Director Jim Gontis, who was accompanied by his wife.

Pilgrim Tom Bohart, of St. Agnes Parish in Naples, said of his Eucharistic Congress experience of entering Lucas Oil Stadium with 60,000 Catholics: “I felt the arms of Jesus wrap around me. I knew by the end of the evening this was going to be the experience of a lifetime. I was not disappointed. I now better understand the gift of the Eucharist and how it gives me the strength of Jesus to share my faith.”

Also awed by the numbers and the entire experience was Lori Crawford, Director of Faith Formation at Our Lady of Light Parish in Fort Myers, who attended with her family.

“The numbers are astounding,” Crawford said. “Lay families and singles, religious women, brothers, seminarians, priests, Bishops. It’s astonishing … our Church is so big and varied and this is a holy manifestation of God’s creativity. Let us remember to be people who bring others into communion with each other rather than driving wedges of disunity.”

The Eucharistic Congress was a learning experience for Pilgrim Lilian Ronderos, Director of Religious Education at St. Joseph Parish in Bradenton.

“I learned that I need to be open to change,” Ronderos said. “Change within my ministry, change in ministry and change within myself. I learned that the places of confrontation and struggle are places to reflect upon and to allow the Lord to show me and change me into his likeness.”

Ronderos also said one the most important lessons she learned was that Revival depends upon the knowledge and experience of the love story of the Lord with all of us; the sacrifice and True Presence found in the Holy Eucharist and celebrated at every Mass.

The Eucharistic Congress was a homecoming for Sue and Dale Thompson. Sue Thompson is the Director of Religious Education at St. Patrick Parish in Sarasota, and she shared her thoughts.

“The 10th National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis was a real homecoming for my husband Dale and I. Seeing our hometown come alive with all the faithful and especially bringing the Eucharist through our city to all those who may not know Jesus or who may be struggling with their faith, was the highlight of the pilgrimage for us. Seeing Bishop (Andrew) Cozzens, (the spiritual director of the National Eucharistic Revival), bringing the monstrance into the Lucas Oil Stadium on the first night to start off the Congress with Adoration and seeing the radiant smile on his face as he blessed the city and all the procession attendees reminded me of the beauty and grace-filled sincerity of all who presented at the events and planned the Congress. Our hearts are so full, and this event will impact us for years to come. What a success!! We are so grateful for this pilgrimage and can’t wait for the next in 2033!”

Maria Gaviria, of Our Lady of the Angels Parish in Lakewood Ranch was at the Congress with her daughter Natasha Lovely, and they were all smiles after the closing Mass. “The smiles are indicative of the grace-filled historical moment at the National Eucharistic Congress and now ready to be sent out from the foundation of deeper love of the Eucharist.”

The Eucharistic Congress opened with Adoration in Lucas Oil Stadium, led by Bishop Andrew Cozzens, the spiritual director of the National Eucharistic Revival, opening the hearts of all that the Lord wants to do in these days.

During the first Revival session, participants were reminded that Jesus “accepts us where we are, but then leads us to conversion” by Sister Bethany Madonna, SV. The evening focused on the story of the Road to Emmaus, including testimonies from the emcees, a reflection on true Eucharistic Revival from Cardinal Christophe Pierre, Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, and an inspiring talk from Sister Bethany on how our Lord loves and pursues each one of us.

The first full day at the Congress opened in fitting fashion, by gathering together for the most perfect prayer of the Church – the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. As the main celebrant of the English Mass, Cardinal Timothy Dolan, of the Archdiocese of New York, reminded everyone that the Eucharist is a meal where we gather at the divine table to celebrate the saving action of our God.

After morning liturgies, participants attended a morning impact session to dive deeper into their Congress experience. Attendees also perused the bustling Expo Hall, visited powerful exhibits like the replica of the Shroud of Turin, and listened to inspiring talks in breakout sessions.

During the revival session in Lucas Oil Stadium, participants were drawn into the unfathomable love of Jesus for each one of us. After beautiful testimonies from Lila Rose and Ken and Mary Ann Duppong, Mother Olga of the Sacred Heart reminded participants that Jesus is actively moving today and working miracles in our world. Then, led by Fr. Mike Schmitz, we were invited into a time of Eucharistic Adoration where we could be reunited with our first love by removing the “fire extinguishers” in our hearts.

The following day also began with Mass in multiple locations. In the Indiana Convention Center, participants learned about hundreds of Catholic apostolates in the Exhibit Hall and heard talks from dozens of speakers, including Jason Evert, Bishop Cozzens, Emily Wilson Hussem, and Dr. Andrew and Sarah Swafford.

Congress attendees were invited to allow the Lord to heal them emotionally, spiritually, and physically. All of this culminated in an evening Revival session, including a joyful entrance into prayer led by the music team and witnesses of God’s mercy and healing. Sister Josephine Garrett, Sister of the Holy Family of Nazareth, shared a moving keynote address inviting the participants to “repent in hope and joy.” Father Boniface Hicks, O.S.B. led a time of Eucharistic Adoration and invited everyone to pray for true, lasting healing before processing with Our Lord through Lucas Oil Stadium.

Throughout the Eucharistic Congress, participants encountered Our Lord’s Mercy through the Sacrament of Reconciliation, with confessions heard each day for more than 12 hours.

The largest event to take place outside of the stadium was a Eucharistic procession through the downtown area, led by the Most Blessed Sacrament. Bishops, priests, men and women religious, Deacons, and others followed as tens of thousands of Congress participants lined the streets and processed and worshipped Jesus. The procession ended with Eucharistic Adoration as all gathered together, gazing upon the King of the Universe in the city center at the Soldiers and Sailors Monument.

These are just a few of the highlights of the National Eucharistic Congress which inspired those who were there and carried a powerful message to the world, placing a greater emphasis on the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Most Holy Eucharist.

During the National Eucharistic Revival, the Diocese of Venice has hosted two Diocesan Eucharistic Congresses which drew more than 6,400 people in the two years. Additional initiatives in the Diocese and at the Parish-level have continued. Parishes throughout the Diocese organized Catholic speakers, adoration, Eucharistic processions, and other exciting events.

While the National Eucharistic Revival switches to a mission role, with the faithful spreading the word about the Most Holy Eucharist to the whole world, the Diocese of Venice will continue to provide local opportunities to participate in the important Revival. The annual Diocesan Youth Rally is Nov. 16, 2024, at the Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center in Punta Gorda, as well as the Men’s and Women’s Conference on March 29, 2025, at Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers. Other events are being planned and will continue the theme celebrating the Most Holy Eucharist.

“Called” Ave Youth Conference draws big crowd

Posted on July 26, 2024 by Bob Reddy

The weekend of July 12-14, 2024, more than 800 high school youth representing five Dioceses from across of Florida attended the 15th Annual Ave Maria University’s “CALLED” High School Youth Conference.

This year’s conference was based on the scripture “Fear not, for I have redeemed you, I have CALLED you by name, you are mine.” (Isaiah 43:1)

Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated the closing Mass on July 14 at the newly opened Ave Maria University Field House encouraging the youth to work at having a personal relationship with Christ and listening to His voice because each one of them have been CALLED to a greater purpose for their lives.

“We are all called to serve the Lord in a particular way, using the grace, gifts and talents granted to us by the Holy Spirit,” Bishop Dewane said. “You must do this by opening your hearts to the Lord; because when you do that, you will be able to become more that man or woman of God you are called to be.”

The youth were able to hear talks from many nationally known speakers including Father Timothy Anastos, the Director and Chaplain of the St. John Paul II Newman Center in Chicago, Illinois; recording artist and conference speaker, Noelle Garcia (Mc Hugh); chastity speaker Pam Stenzel; and Ave Maria University’s Director of Campus Ministry, Father Joseph Lugalambi, PhD.

The music ministry was led by the Miami based group “EPIC the Band.” In addition to the great speakers the youth were able to attend daily Mass, Eucharistic Adoration and receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation offered by 22 priests from across the Diocese of Venice.

At the end of the weekend, during a time for student testimonies, many shared their experiences of the great love and presence of God that they experienced at the conference realizing that He is true and real and not just up there somewhere but present to them now.

Youth from Our Lady of Grace Parish in Avon Park posted photos from their experience at the conference and expressed their gratitude to generous sponsors who allowed them to attend the event and for the opportunity to experience the beauty of their faith with youth from across the Diocese and Florida.

News Briefs for the week of July 26, 2024

Posted on July 26, 2024July 26, 2024 by Bob Reddy

Watch this important video

Watch a short video which is offered for the faithful to learn the facts about Amendment 4, a dangerous and misleading amendment which will appear on the ballot in the fall. To learn more, visit Vote No on Amendment 4! – Diocese of Venice or contact Jeanne Berdeaux, berdeaux@dioceseofvenice.org, 941-374-1068.

Participants in World Grandparents Day will be offered Plenary Indulgence

The Fourth World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly will take place July 28, 2024, and those Catholics who participate will be eligible for a Plenary Indulgence. The World Day is celebrated annually on the fourth Sunday of July, close to the liturgical memorial of Saints Joachim and Anne, the foster grandparents of Jesus. The theme this year is “Do not cast me off in my old age.” (Ps 71:9). A Plenary Indulgence offers remission of the temporal punishment due to sins already forgiven, which can be applied to oneself or to the souls in Purgatory. The Indulgence will be granted to grandparents, the elderly, and all faithful who “motivated by a true spirit of penance and charity” will participate in the various functions to be held for the Day throughout the world. It will also be extended to those who dedicate significant time to visit—either in-person or by virtual means of communication—their elderly brothers and sisters who are in need or facing difficulties, such as the sick, abandoned, and those with disabilities. It is also available to the elderly sick and all those who, unable to leave their homes for a serious reason, will unite themselves spiritually to the sacred functions of the World Day, offering their prayers, pains, or sufferings to God, especially during the various celebrations which will be broadcast through the media. The Indulgence is subject to the usual conditions of sacramental Confession, reception of the Eucharist, and prayer for the intentions of the Holy Father.

Mission celebrates Feast Day

Holy Child Mission in Bowling Green celebrated its patron on July 21, 2024, with a Mass, procession and festival. The Feast of the Divine Child Jesus (Divino Nino) is an important celebration for this rural community, and this was reflected in the joy of the people of all ages. Father Juan Lorenzo led the procession which included carrying a statue of the Divine Child Jesus through the streets near the Mission church as the faithful prayed and sang. The fiesta rich foods followed. The celebration also marks the 44th anniversary of the founding of the Mission in Hardee County (1979).

Parish hosts youth missionaries aiding in hurricane recovery

St. Columbkille Parish in Fort Myers recognized a group of young men and women from the Diocese of La Crosse, Wisconsin at Mass on Sunday, July 21, 2024. This group, 40 in total, including some adult leaders and Father Jared Clements, a 13 months ordained Priest, came to the area on a Mission trip to help out some area residents who are still struggling from Hurricane Ian which devastated the area in September 2022. While in Fort Myers, at the end of each day, the group had daily Mass and Eucharistic Adoration in the Chapel. In addition, members of the Knights of Columbus also hosted a dinner for the missionaries.

Catholic Charities Summertime Appeal continues

Every day, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., serves in the 10 counties that constitute the Diocese of Venice the most vulnerable population by feeding, housing, empowering, and helping all in need. This summer, you can be the one that makes a difference. Your acts of kindness have the power to transform lives and leave a positive impact in our community. The Catholic Charities “Summertime and the Giving is Easy” Appeal is asking for your support. Any gift will make a positive impact on our less fortunate brothers and sisters! To donate to Summertime and the Giving is Easy Campaign, please visit www.catholiccharitiesdov.org or mail a check to Catholic Charities, “Summertime and the Giving is Easy,” 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34285.

Local Doctors Sound the Alarm! The Dangers of Amendment 4

Posted on July 11, 2024 by Bob Reddy

By Karen Barry Schwarz – Special to the Florida Catholic

Amendment 4, a pro-abortion amendment that will appear on the ballot in the fall, has alarmed pro-life Floridians, particularly in regard to its extreme and misleading nature. Now, local doctors are sounding the alarm about the inherent dangers it presents.

The amendment, which needs a 60 percent super majority to pass, is vaguely worded and was even required to be reviewed by the state Supreme Court regarding its misleading language before it was allowed to appear on the ballot. The Supreme Court ultimately decided that the language was coherent enough to appear on the ballot, and will appear as below:

Amendment to Limit Government Interference with Abortion

No law shall prohibit, penalize, delay, or restrict abortion before viability or when necessary to protect the patient’s health, as determined by the patient’s healthcare provider. This amendment does not change the Legislature’s constitutional authority to require notification to a parent or guardian before a minor has an abortion.

The Court’s decision to allow the amendment to appear on the ballot in the fall was not unanimous, however, passing by a narrow 4-3 vote. Of note, the three dissenting votes on the Court? All three female justices (Justice Renatha Francis, Justice Jamie Grosshans, Justice Meredith L. Sasso). Justice Sasso concluded in her dissenting opinion “In sum, the Sponsor is required to tell the truth about the purpose and scope of the proposed amendment and not mislead voters; it has done neither.”

“I am not surprised that all the dissenting Justices were women,” said Karen Liebert, MD, who is an OB/GYN and a Medical Director at Community Pregnancy Clinic (CPCI) in Sarasota. “Amendment 4 is misleading, and if passed, will create so many health risks for women.”

DOCTORS NOT REQUIRED: HEALTHCARE PROVIDER UNDEFINED

“Abortion is a complicated procedure, and it is not without risk,” Dr. Liebert said. “This amendment removes the doctor from critical decisions, requiring only a ‘healthcare provider’ which is very broad, and vague. Abortions will be much more dangerous if this amendment passes than they were during the 50 years of the Roe v. Wade era.”

“It is disappointing that this amendment seeks to lower the bar, allowing non-physicians to make decisions that can jeopardize a woman’s life,” adds Ana Garcia Iguaran, MD, an OB/GYN, General Practitioner and NFP doctor with Mater Dei Clinic in Ave Maria. “‘Healthcare providers’ are now basically ‘armed’ with the ability to make decisions that can not only end the life of a baby, but that of the mother. At the very least, a doctor trained and knowledgeable about the possible complications of an abortion, and there are many, should be involved.”

NO LIMITS: VIABILITY UNDEFINED

“A post-Amendment 4 world would be woefully very different, i.e. much worse, than the Roe v. Wade era,” adds Diane Gowski, MD, President, Florida Catholic Medical Association. “Roe v. Wade ruled that abortion could be prohibited only at the point of fetal viability (back then this was around 28 weeks gestational age). Due to technological advancements in medicine, babies born as young as 21 weeks have now survived with supportive care and treatment. The misleading language of Amendment 4 indicates that it too would allow abortion ‘before viability’ (like Roe v. Wade), however it then adds an extremely broad exception, “…or when …”, such that ultimately it allows abortion up until birth, for any reason as decided upon by any non-physician healthcare provider. Thus, Amendment 4 greatly expands access to abortion . . . there would be no limits on abortion.”

“We know that babies can feel pain as early as 15 weeks, and there is solid proof that they can feel pain as early as 12 weeks,” said Dr. Liebert. “This amendment allows abortion all the way through the third term. People dismiss that, saying that not many third term abortions are performed, but that’s still thousands of babies, and also abortion becomes much riskier for the mother at that point. Even under the Roe ruling, viability was defined. This is much worse.”

Stephen Hannan, MD, Fort Myers, is President of the Southwest Florida Guild of the Catholic Medical Association and adds that “the language of Amendment 4 is very misleading. Although the amendment seems to limit abortions to a pre-viability age of the baby, it provides no precise definition of the gestational age. And those that might make this determination, need only be a ‘health-care provider,’ not a physician. The definition of health-care provider is not defined, and therefore is not limited to physicians . . . I believe the vague language used in the ballot summary was intentional. It is meant to deceive the voters, even Catholic voters. It will provide a glidepath to abuse.”

NO PARENTAL CONSENT REQUIRED

“The language in the amendment is purposedly misleading as to suggest that it will provide healthcare for pregnant women – anyone can get behind that,” said Dr. Garcia Iguaran. “Of course, pregnant women need healthcare! But that is not what this amendment means or would provide. It would provide unlimited, unrestricted access to abortion, even for young girls, without their parents’ consent. Abortion is not improving anyone’s life, certainly not the baby’s, and not the mother’s.”

Amendment 4 calls for parental “notification” not the currently required “consent.”

“Simply notifying a parent does not mean consent is required, just that someone was notified,” Dr. Hannan said. “And the ballot summary provides no stringent criteria for notification as proof of identification as a parent.”

“This would make abortion the only medical procedure on a minor that does not require a parent’s consent in the state of Florida,” added Dr. Liebert. “And there are other dangers for girls. Traffickers and abusers will be able to much more easily coerce girls into abortions, since the parental consent requirement is removed with the passage of this amendment. This is a real issue. Even worse, with no doctor involved, it’s easier for an abuser to get someone, any loosely defined ‘healthcare provider,’ to say an abortion is needed.”

“This is insane,” said Dr. Garcia Iguaran. “Parental consent is required even for something as low risk as a vaccination!”

FLORIDA: ABORTION TOURISM STATE?

Under Amendment 4, since “viability” is undefined, abortion would be unrestricted, allowed up until birth. If passed, Amendment 4 would make Florida one of the most permissive pro-abortion states in the nation, turning Florida from a “family friendly” state into an “abortion tourism” state as other states restrict access to abortion.

Amendment 4 “vastly expands the right to abortion beyond anything Florida has ever done in the history of the State,” explains one of the dissenting Supreme Court opinions to allowing the amendment to appear on the ballot.

“I believe that most people are against unlimited abortion in Florida,” said Dr. Garcia Iguaran. “Even those who are in favor of abortion in certain cases, would be against this amendment if they realized that it allowed abortion without any restrictions whatsoever, allowing abortion up until birth.”

NO CHANCE OF LIMITING ABORTION IN THE FUTURE

The dissenting Florida Supreme Court opinion further states that the Amendment 4 ballot summary “doesn’t explain that the proposed amendment effectively eliminates the Legislature’s ability to pass laws in the future regulating abortion in any meaningful, substantive way.”

For Catholics, the evils of abortion are clear, stated in the Catechism. Current Florida law, which allows abortion under certain conditions and several exceptions, takes into consideration the life of a child in utero, as Justice Francis pointed out in her dissenting Supreme Court opinion, stating that “our Florida Constitution recognizes that ‘life’ is a ‘basic right’ for all natural persons. One must recognize the unborn’s competing right to life and the State’s moral duty to protect that life.” Amendment 4 will eliminate such consideration, or any “moral duty” of the State.

“I think this is less about the immorality of abortion but more about the extremes of this pro-abortion amendment that will be cemented into the Florida Constitution,” said Dr. Hannan. “The vast majority of those sympathetic to the idea of a woman’s right to an abortion, would still cringe at the idea of ending the life of a baby deep into the third trimester. And most would cringe at the idea that a medical procedure could be done on a minor without formal parental consent. These inevitable extremes are why Floridians should vote no on Amendment 4.”

FLORIDA DOCTORS RALLY AGAINST AMENDMENT 4: BAD FOR WOMEN, BAD FOR FLORIDA

A doctors’ advocacy group, Florida Physicians Against Amendment 4, is calling for all Floridians to vote no on Amendment 4, stating that it “removes common sense maternal health and safety regulations,” among other concerns. The group, supported by the American Association of Pro-Life Obstetricians and Gynecologists, has initiated a Declaration in Opposition to Amendment 4, calling it “overreaching, too permissive, and irresponsible,” and “bad for women, bad for Florida.” They are encouraging all physicians to sign the Declaration, which can be accessed online here: FPAA4: Florida Physicians Against Amendment 4

“The current Florida law has shown us that women who may be abortion-minded are coming in earlier to confirm their pregnancies with our free ultrasounds. We have an opportunity at that point to offer support, and options to them. Sometimes, they choose life,” said Dr. Liebert. “But if Amendment 4 passes, we’ll have no opportunity to save them.”

Where can I learn more?

For more information visit:

Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops at https://www.flaccb.org/abortion-amendment
Diocese of Venice Office of Respect Life at https://dioceseofvenice.org/offices/offices-departments/respect-life/amendment4/
Vote No on 4 Florida at https://votenoon4florida.com/

Seminarians gain knowledge during summer assignments

Posted on July 11, 2024 by Bob Reddy

Summer break for college students is usually filled with fun, travel and perhaps work. For the Diocese of Venice seminarians who have completed another year of studies on their spiritual journey to becoming priests, they are now working on various summer assignments which will help them broaden their pastoral experiences.

“The summer assignments are an important part of seminarian formation, where the men have the opportunity to experience the realities of Parish life and ministry,” explained Diocese Vocations Director Father Alex Pince.

Each assignment is intended to provide the seminarians with an opportunity to learn about the daily operation of a Parish, with a focus on pastoral care. At different phases in their priestly formation, the assignments are carefully chosen to maximize the positive benefits for each seminarian.

“They are given the opportunity to gain valuable experience while getting to know and serve with the priests, lay ministers and faithful who make up a Parish community,” Father Pince added. “Each summer the assignments change, giving the seminarians a deeper understanding of their vocational call to become Diocesan priests.”

Bishop Frank J. Dewane said the summer is crucial in keeping the seminarians engaged as part of their commitment to a prayerful life and spiritual development. The work has the added benefit of keeping them connected to the Diocese in which they may someday serve as priests.

“In seminary formation there is a stress on the growth in human, academic, spiritual and pastoral formation,” Bishop Dewane said. “Summer assignments offer practical insights on pastoral ministry and provide the seminarian an opportunity to grow and have real-life encounters.”

Through encountering others in various pastoral ministries such as visiting the sick, leading the faithful in prayer, and helping the poor, each seminarian comes to a deeper understanding of their own personal call to serve the people of God, Bishop Dewane said.

The summer began with the Ordination to the Priesthood of Father Greg Dougherty on June 8, with many of the seminarians present to help serve the Mass. This allowed the seminarians to see one of their fellow seminarians reach a goal they are working to attain in the future.

The Parish assignments place the seminarians with Pastors who will also serve as a mentor to them. The assignments differ each summer to provide the greatest opportunity for new learning experiences.

While most will be serving at Parishes throughout the summer, one seminarian has been assigned as a Totus Tuus missionary. This Diocesan program is a weekly spiritual camp offered for children at Parishes throughout the summer to enable them to grow closer to the Lord. In addition, two men are currently Transitional Deacons, meaning they will serve more prominently at the Parish including during the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, preaching, as well as celebrating baptism and weddings.

The seminarians and their summer assignment locations are as follows:

Transitional Deacon Jacob Gwynn, St. John XXIII Parish, Fort Myers;
Transitional Deacon Patrick Long, St. Thomas More Parish, Sarasota;
Joseph Doherty, St. Francis Xavier Parish, Fort Myers;
Bai Nguyen, St. Joseph Parish, Bradenton;
Andrew Cordero, Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Venice;
Alain Valdvia, St. Charles Borromeo Parish, Port Charlotte;
Lam Vo, San Antonio Parish, Port Charlotte;
Jesse Gomez; Totus Tuus summer program.

Diocese of Venice Seminarians are supported through the Diocese Catholic Faith Appeal, the Knights of Columbus and the generosity of the faithful.

For more information about the seminarians or Vocations, contact Father Alex Pince at pince@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-484-9543, or visit www.venicevocations.com.

Prayer for Vocations

Amen.

Spanish-language Faith Formation program success continues

Posted on July 11, 2024 by Bob Reddy

During the past seven years the Hispanic Ministries outreach of the Diocese of Venice has strived to meet the needs of those desiring to be better formed in their Faith through a focused formation program, with hundreds participating each year.

Father Claudio Stewart, Diocesan Hispanic Ministries Director, said this formation program has been recognized as one of the largest Diocesan-level outreach efforts in the nation which directly includes the Hispanic Catholic community.

“Through the last seven years, we have observed the community’s desire to learn, their eagerness to integrate more within our Catholic Faith and their motivation to become more involved as a community,” Father Stewart explained. “They do find the time to participate and make the effort to learn by using the Pastoral Hispana App to access the classes and relevant supporting documents. Their commitment and dedication serve as guidance to continue offering our formation classes year after year.”

The 2023-2024 Formation Program of the Hispanic Apostolate focused on the National Eucharistic Revival, therefore, the theme of the classes was based on the celebration of the Holy Mass. For this purpose, the program utilized a resource from the Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions titled “The Mystery of Faith: A Study of the Structural Elements of the Order of Mass.”

The benefit of having the formation program in Spanish allows the students the opportunity to better absorb the complexities of the Faith without the extra work of translating the information. This also helps streamline the instruction and allows for a more open discussion. At the conclusion of each program year, those who earned certificates are encouraged to use their new-found knowledge to evangelize in their families and the Parish community.

The Faith Formation classes are divided into five geographic regions of the Diocese to allow easier access to the course. Students are offered the option to participate in-person or online. Instructors included priests, women religious and Deacons. Each level becomes increasingly more sophisticated, challenging the participants to take a fresh look at the Catholic Church.

For the 2023-2024 session, a total of 564 Hispanic adults registered for the latest session of the program and participated in a least some of the session, with 223 earning a Diocesan Certification, meaning they completed all seven sessions and passed a final exam. Diocesan certificates were presented in June at regional locations.

One participant from Jesus the Worker Parish in Fort Myers said the formation program has helped her grow in love of the Universal Church and increased her passion for sharing her faith with others.

With the support of Bishop Frank J. Dewane, the Spanish Faith Formation Program sessions were developed immediately following the local consultation process of the V Encuentro in 2016 and 2017.

The V Encuentro was a multi-year outreach initiated by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, with a goal of discerning ways for the Church in the U.S. to better respond to the needs of the growing Hispanic population. The process involved consultations at the Parish, Diocesan, regional and national levels. A final report was submitted to the Vatican in September 2019 with recommendations for inclusive action at all levels of the Church in the U.S. These actions are now being implemented.

The idea behind the initial three-step Spanish Faith Formation Program within the Diocese was to quickly help bridge the gap in formation for Hispanics in the Diocese for whom English is not their first language. This gap had created isolation among some, and the new program became empowering to Hispanic Catholics who often felt they were outsiders in the Catholic Church within the U.S., primarily due to the language difference.

For the coming formation series, Father Stewart said the program will respond to the call of Pope Francis who invites us to dedicate a year to prayer in preparation for the Jubilee of 2025. Consequently, the classes will cover the fourth part of the Catechism of the Catholic Church “The Life of Prayer.”

Other actions taken since the local V Encuentro sessions have encouraged a broader outreach and inclusion in existing Parish and Diocesan events. This means having sessions in Spanish at conferences, bilingual programs, and other steps that express the unity of the Catholic Church in the U.S.

To learn more about other Diocese of Venice initiatives through the Hispanic Ministries Office, please email pastoralhispana@dioceseofvenice.org, or visit www.dioceseofvenice.org/offices/offices-departments/hispanic-apostolate.