Author: Bob Reddy

Canonization sought for martyrs from La Florida

Posted on by Bob Reddy

As we prepare to celebrate and honor the saints on the Solemnity of All Saint’s, it is noteworthy that there is an effort to recognize clergy and lay Catholics who were martyred for their faith, some with connections to the Diocese of Venice.

 

The cause for Martyrs of La Florida Missions, Antonio Inija and 57 companions, has been researched as a part of Florida’s Catholic history dating back more than three centuries. The eight volumes of research have been presented to the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints in Rome and is under consideration.

 

Lynn Mangan, Vice Postulator for the Cause for La Florida Martyrs, was a guest of Bishop Frank J. Dewane this month on Relevant Radio show “Witnessing Faith with Bishop Dewane,” which premiered on Oct. 31, 2025.

 

Mangan explained the comprehensive process which formally began with a Diocesan phase on Oct. 12, 2015, under the guidance of Bishop Gregory Parkes, then-Bishop of Pensacola-Tallahassee, and completed Oct. 12, 2023, under Bishop William Wack, CSC, now-Bishop of Pensacola-Tallahassee.

 

“The 58 individuals are the brightest stars among many holy souls that were part of the beautiful mission story of La Florida and across the Southeast,” Mangan said. “It covers a period from 1549 to 1715 and includes nine Dioceses united in the cause. The martyrdom of the 58 individuals spanned 14 different events. Most were lay people, most Native Americans – as well as priests and brothers from different religious orders.”

 

The nine Dioceses included in the beatification cause are six in Florida, as well as the Archdiocese of Mobile, and the Dioceses of Richmond and Savannah.

 

Mangan said the Diocese of Venice was a special part of the whole mission story. The first Jesuit mission in the New World was established as Fort San Anton de Calros, in 1567 on Mound Key, a small island in Estero Bay, near Fort Myers. This was the cultural center of the Calusa (or Calos) people, who lived in the area for more than 2,000 years.

 

“The Jesuits had great respect for the native leaders and even engaged in theological debates,” Mangan said. “The original mission was burned to the ground, but the story was never lost. Most don’t know the amazing story of martyrdom in Florida.”

 

Thanks to the support of spiritual leaders, such as Bishop Dewane, Mangan is spreading the word about the martyrs. She hopes the Holy Spirit inspires people with the stories and that they ask for a miracle. “Pray to the martyrs. Be friends with them.”

 

The timing of Mangan’s appearance on “Witnessing Faith with Bishop Dewane,” comes as there is a unified effort to spread the word about developing a devotion to the martyrs, promoting their beatification, and ultimately building a shrine near Tallahassee.

 

On All Souls Day, Nov. 2, Bishop Wack is celebrating a “Mass with the Martyrs” in Tallahassee, at the site of the future Shrine of Mary, Queen of Martyrs. The outdoor event will include Mass, praying of the “Hopeful Mysteries” of the Rosary, a presentation about the martyrs, an update on the beatification process, and plans for the future shrine.

 

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

 

“Witnessing Faith with Bishop Dewane” can be heard on Relevant Radio on 1410 AM and 106.7 FM in Fort Myers and 1660 AM and 93.3 FM in Naples at 8:30 a.m. on the last Friday of every month (Oct. 31), or anytime at https://dioceseofvenice.org/our-bishop/.

 

 

Prayer to the Martyrs of La Florida Missions

 

O God, Father of many nations,

Who through the grace of baptism have chosen us

to be citizens of Your one Kingdom:

You called Antonio Inija and Companions

to accept Your gift of faith,

professing their hope in Your Only Begotten Son.

Help us with Your grace to imitate their courage and humility

in the face of suffering and death.

May the blood of the martyrs of La Florida

inspire our hearts to follow You without delay.

And, if it be Your Holy Will,

grant the Beatification of

Antonio Inija and Companions, and through their intercession,

grant the request we hereby make (state your intention),

in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord.

 

With ecclesiastical approval

William A. Wack, CSC

Bishop of Pensacola-Tallahassee

 

Sarasota Catholic school celebrates 75th anniversary

Posted on by Bob Reddy

A rich legacy of faith, academic excellence and community service was recognized during the St. Martha Catholic School 75th Anniversary: Diamond Gala in Sarasota Oct. 25, 2025.

 

Founded in 1950, St. Martha Catholic School has been shaping generations in knowledge, faith, and love that is centered on Christ. The Gala was a celebration of that legacy and a springboard for a bright future.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane spoke about how much of an impact St. Martha Catholic School has had on the community of Sarasota and the Diocese of Venice, noting how reaching 75 years was no small accomplishment.

 

“We find ourselves looking back to acknowledge the sacrifice many of you have made throughout the years,” Bishop Dewane said. “The generosity of so many people of good will have given us the strength to keep going as we look to how we continue forward. I want to join in thanking all of you for the good that you do and your presence here. I thank the parents for having chosen St. Martha’s as a school for your child.”

 

Mari Jo Hanson, Principal of St. Martha Catholic School, spoke about how St. Martha has grown from humble beginnings.

 

“From the sisters who opened the doors in the 1950s to dedicated teachers who continue to inspire our students today, this school has always been a place where faith and learning come together,” Hanson said. “In today’s world we recognize what a blessing it truly is to teach our children about faith. To express God’s love openly. To pray together. To help children see the world through compassion and hope. That freedom, that mission are gifts we never take for granted here at St. Martha.”

 

St. Martha Catholic School was established May 4, 1950, when ground was broken on what was then the first Catholic school in Sarasota County. The school was first administered by Benedictine Sisters of the Holy Name Priory. Their service ended in 1974 and was followed by service by Sisters of the third Order of St. Francis. The Pallotine Fathers have led St. Martha Parish since 1991 and have served the school since that time.

 

Of special note was the recognition of Father Fausto Stampiglia, SAC, who retired as Pastor of St. Martha Parish in 2022 after having served more than 30 years. Father Stampiglia was personally recognized by Bishop Dewane and Hanson and received multiple ovations for his contribution to the history of St. Martha Catholic School.

 

It was Father Stampiglia’s vision that enabled the school to relocate from its original downtown Sarasota home to its current location in 2002. A sprawling modern campus was developed and is now home to nearly 500 students. A later addition of the Zazarino Center, a multipurpose building with gymnasium and classrooms developed thanks to the guidance of Father Stampiglia, further enhancing the offerings at the school.

 

The elegant evening featured live and silent auctions with exclusive items and experiences, paddle raises, and an exciting raffle with fantastic prizes. Live entertainment was provided by The Hype.

 

All proceeds from the Diamond Gala, which was presented by The John F. Cuneo, Jr. Foundation, along with other generous sponsors, will support the enhancement of St. Martha Catholic School’s facilities, furnishings and resources, ensuring that the legacy of St. Martha continues to thrive for future generations, for disciples of Christ.

 

St. Martha Catholic School serves children in grades prekindergarten-3 through 8th Grade. The mission of St. Martha Catholic School is to provide each student with diverse opportunities which develop strength in faith, excellence in knowledge, and character in service.  The school strives to provide a curriculum that gives the opportunity for growth in the student’s relationship with Jesus, while building competence in academic disciplines, basic skills, aesthetic appreciation and physical development.

 

More information about St. Martha Catholic School, including how to schedule a private tour, is available by calling 941-953-4181 or by visiting www.stmarthaschool.net.

 

Jubilee 2025 continues at Cathedral

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Throughout the 2025 Jubilee Year, a special holy year of grace, hope, and pilgrimage that happens at least once every 25 years, Pope Francis called all Catholics to go on a journey of conversion as “Pilgrims of Hope,” seeking to grow closer to the Lord, cultivating hope in their heart, and bringing hope to others.

 

While the Jubilee Year may be nearing a close, Bishop Frank J. Dewane said there is still time to respond.

“A major component of the Jubilee is prayer,” Bishop Dewane said Oct. 26, 2025, during a Jubilee Mass at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice. “In this Jubilee, we must lift up our hearts to the Lord and let that prayer pierce our own hearts and arrive with adequate reflection, for we are a people of hope.”

 

Bishop noted that to be people of hope, we must go beyond thinking of doing good for oneself, but more importantly one must act and give hope to others, giving something of oneself so that the other can see goodness and hope in the world, changing who they are as children of God.

 

While a Jubilee Year implies needing to take a pilgrimage, or a physical journey, Bishop Dewane said we must also use this time to make a spiritual journey.

 

“Journey as a pilgrim could be to the confessional,” Bishop Dewane said. “Be there to approach the Lord. Become reconciled with the Lord and reconciled with ourselves in how we live our life; in who we are, and who Jesus Christ is in the midst in our daily life. We have to be changed as Catholics and be a sign of hope for others.”

Bishop Dewane designated five locations as Jubilee pilgrimage sites within the Diocese. These Pilgrimage Sites are Epiphany Cathedral, St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers, St. John the Evangelist Parish in Naples, St. Paul Parish in Arcadia, and Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice.

 

In designating the retreat center and four Parishes located in each of the geographical regions (Deaneries) of the Diocese, Bishop Dewane encouraged the faithful to take advantage of the grace of the Jubilee Year, and to be part of what is a historic moment in the Church. For more information on the Pilgrimage Sites, please visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/jubilee-2025-pilgrims-of-hope/.

 

Of note, on Oct. 25, the day before Bishop celebrated Mass for the Jubilee Year at the Cathedral, a group of parishioners from Epiphany took part in a Jubilee pilgrimage to Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center and St. Paul Parish.

News Briefs for the week of October 31, 2025

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Bishop celebrates Mass for students in Bradenton

Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass for students at St. Joseph Catholic School in Bradenton Oct. 29, 2025. Bishop Dewane encouraged the students to improve their prayer life so as to grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ. Following Mass, the Bishop spoke with the eighth graders, encouraging them to be the leaders of their school. The eighth graders were also given the opportunity to ask questions and have a group photo taken with the Bishop.

 

Equestrian Order celebrates Feast Day praying for peace in the Holy Land

Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated Mass for the Knights and Dames of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem on Oct. 28, 2025, at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Venice. The Order is entrusted with the mission to serve as witnesses to the Christian faith, and as supporters and protectors of the Church and the living Christian communities in the Holy Land. Bishop Dewane praised their commitment to the people of the Holy Land, which is needed now more than ever in this war-ravaged region as a tenuous peace has been put in place. The annual Mass is celebrated as close as is possible to Oct. 25, the Feast of Our Lady of Palestine, the Order’s Patroness.

Diocesan seminarian takes on campus ministry during formation

Alex Baugh, a seminarian for the Diocese of Venice studying at Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary in Weston, Massachusetts, has been assisting with campus ministry at nearby Boston University. Baugh, and a fellow seminarian, go to the Boston University campus each Sunday which allows them to walk with college students as they navigate questions of faith, purpose, and vocation—witnessing Christ through their example. This experience is a vital part of priestly formation. It helps our seminarians learn to listen deeply, accompany others with compassion, and share the Gospel in a university setting where faith and reason meet every day.

Sarasota 40 Days for Life closing event Nov. 2

The closing of the Sarasota 40 Days for Life Fall Campaign will include a Jericho Walk at 4 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025. Participants are asked to meet at the parking lot of Community Pregnancy Clinic, 1419 7th Street, Sarasota. The Walk is as Joshua and the Israelites did to bring down the walls of Jericho, circling the regional headquarters of Planned Parenthood seven times in silent prayer. The prayers will be directed to God to bring down the walls around hearts to end abortion in Sarasota, Florida and in the U.S. If you do not wish to walk, please bring a chair for the closing event.

ARISE! Youth Rally registration closes Nov. 7

Calling all Catholic Teens! Be a part of ARISE 2025, the Diocese of Venice Youth Rally! Don’t miss this powerful gathering of young Catholics, grades 9-12. This vibrant celebration will unite our young Church for a day filled with faith, joy, dynamic speakers, live music, the Sacraments, and a life-giving encounter with Christ. The Rally is Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center, Punta Gorda. Parents, teachers, youth leaders, register your teens through your Parish or School by Friday, Nov. 7! Contact Andres Prias, prias@dioceseofevnice.org with questions or for more information.

 

WARNING – Text/Email Scam Alert

Parishioners have received text/email messages from people pretending to be clergy – including Bishop Frank J. Dewane – or Parish/school staff, requesting donations in the form of gift cards and/or wire transfers. The scam often claims that the priest,  Bishop, or staff member is in need of gift cards or money to aid a sick child, relative, or parishioner. The message then asks the person to purchase gift cards/money orders and then to text/email the redemption code and PIN number. It is Diocesan policy that neither the Bishop, nor priests or staff request donations in the form of gift cards, PayPal, MoneyGram, etc.  There is an established process for how to make donations and participate in the life of the Diocese, Parish, or school. If you receive such a scam text or email, please do not respond, and immediately contact the Diocese, Parish, or school directly!

 

21st Hispanic Fall Festival in Sarasota Nov. 8

St. Jude Parish, 3930 17th Street, Sarasota, is hosting its 21st Hispanic Fall Festival from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Nov. 8, 2025. This will be a fun day of live music, food from many Latin American countries, folklore dance, games for the kids, and family entertainment. The proceeds of this event will go to the building of a new church. For more information, please call 941-955-3934.

 

‘Treasures in the Trunk’ on Marco Island

On Nov. 8, 2025, the San Marco Columbiettes will hold a “Treasures in the Trunk” sale and fundraiser at San Marco Parish, 851 San Marco Road, Marco Island. The event is from 8 a.m. until noon, in the Parish Center parking lot. Spaces are available to sell used or antique items from the trunk of a car (parking space is $20), or table ($10). The success of this event will enable the Columbiettes to provide food and necessities to the less fortunate in our area over the upcoming holidays. For more information, contact Barbara De Rosa 239-272-0158 or Mary Cay Moll, 773-368-7275. To donate items, contact Carmela Petrozza, 973-388-0738.

 

Sidewalk Advocate training available

Be A Hero, Save A Life! Learn the peaceful, prayerful method of sidewalk counseling from Sidewalk Advocates for Life and help women and men entering abortion facilities to choose life! The session is 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Nov. 8, 2025, St. John XXIII Parish, 13060 Palomino Lane, Fort Myers. The training is free. Lunch and workbooks will be provided. If you would like to learn this method or learn more about this life-saving ministry, please contact Cyrille Velasco at cyrillevelasco@gmail.com or Bob Reynolds at rgrcons1@gmail.com. Please RSVP at least 10 days in advance. If you are unable to attend these in-person sessions, online training is also available. More information at sidewalkadvocates.org.

 

Kristallnacht Commemoration in Naples Nov. 9

Catholic-Jewish Dialogue (CJD) of Collier County invites the community to the commemoration of the 87th Anniversary of Kristallnacht or “Night of Broken Glass,” which historians consider the beginning of the Holocaust. This free community event takes place at 2:30 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025, at Temple Shalom, 4630 Pine Ridge Road, Naples. The Kristallnacht commemorative event memorializes the six million Jews who were exterminated during the Holocaust. The event is sponsored by CJD, the Diocese of Venice in Florida, the Jewish Community Relations Council of the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, GenShoah of SWFL, and the Holocaust Museum & Janet G. and Harvey D. Cohen Education Center. Please register at www.jewishnaples.org. A reception will follow the talk.

 

Jubilee Monthly Days of Prayer Nov. 9 and 12

The Monthly Day of Prayer at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice, for November is either Nov. 8 or 12, 2025. Father Greg Cleveland, OMV, presents “Heaven – Can’t Wait!” Father will explain the amazing experience that awaits us in heaven and how to prepare for it. The day begins at 9:30 a.m. with a continental breakfast and includes two presentations, the opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, lunch, and Mass. Time for adoration, private prayer, or meditation on the beautiful OLPH grounds is also provided. The day concludes at 3:15 p.m. Cost is $45. Register at olph-retreat.org. . The December Days of Prayer are Dec. 10 and 14.

 

Catholic Mass on Veterans Day

A Catholic Mass on Veterans Day, Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025, will be held outdoors in Patriot’s Plaza at Sarasota National Cemetery at 3 pm. This annual Mass, now in its 16th year in the Diocese of Venice, has become a sacred tradition. Gathering as one people under God, we honor and remember our United States veterans, both living and deceased. All are welcome to attend and join in prayer for the souls of our faithfully departed veterans as well as for those currently in the military, and all who labor to protect the freedoms we enjoy. If you are a member of the military, come, and wear your uniform! The opening ceremony begins at 2:45 p.m.

 

Veterans Day Military Celebration Night in Ave Maria

The Knights of Columbus and Ave Maria Parish are hosting a Veterans Day Military celebration Night, 7 p.m., Nov. 11, 2025, in the Parish Hall, 102 Pope John Paul II Blvd., Ave Maria. This a free, family-friendly evening dedicated to celebrating and honoring the brave men and women of the community who have served – and continue to serve – this nation. The evening will honor Medal of Honor recipients Servant of God Father Vincent Robert Capadanno, and Venerable Father Emil Kapaun. The evening will include light refreshments, a panel discussion, and screening of “Fighting Spirit: A Combat Chaplain’s Journey.”

 

Faith & Ale Lee County Nov. 13

Faith & Ale, a Catholic Men’s Apostolate in Southwest Florida, is entering its 16th season. The monthly gatherings of Catholic men promote fellowship and growth in faith, every month between October and April. The next meeting is Nov. 13, 2025, at Our Lady of Light Parish, 19680 Cypress View Drive, Fort Myers. The guest speaker is Matthew Ingold, co-founder of Metanoia Catholic Podcast and a graduate of the United States Naval Academy. The theme for the evening is, “From Combat Leader to Spiritual Warrior.”  Tickets are $10. Register at https://faithandale.com. For more information, email faithandalefortmyers@gmail.com.

 

Vocation Awareness Weekend Nov. 14-16

St. John Vianney College Seminary in Miami is hosting a Vocation Awareness Weekend from Friday, Nov. 14, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. to Sunday, Nov. 16 at 12:00 p.m. This seminary visit is open to young men, ages 17 and up and is an engaging time of prayer, talks, sports, and other fun activities with the seminarians and priests. There is no cost and transportation is provided. To register, please contact Lina Johnson at johnson@dioceseofvenice.org or call 941-486-4720.

 

Cardinal Mooney Gratia Gala Nov. 15

The Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School Gratia Gala is 6 p.m., Nov. 15, 2025, at the Westin Sarasota. This elegant fundraising event will feature a lively atmosphere with a cocktail reception, silent and live auction, all aimed at supporting the mission of Cardinal Mooney. Together, attendees will celebrate the community’s commitment to excellence and provide the resources needed to shape the future of our young leaders. Don’t miss this chance to make a meaningful impact – mark your calendars and prepare for a night of generosity and joy! Tickets are $250 per person. Visit https://www.cmhs-sarasota.org/ and follow the GALA link for tickets and sponsorship opportunities.

 

Ignatian Preached Retreat in November

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice, is hosting a silent Ignatian Preached Retreat, Nov. 21-24, 2025. This silent retreat will introduce participants to the great themes of the Ignatian Spiritual Exercises in a group setting. The schedule includes conferences each day, daily Mass, and an opportunity to meet with the retreat director for Confession and/or spiritual direction. Conference topics center on Ignatian spirituality, prayer, and discernment. The cost is $525 per person for a private room and $360 per person for a shared room (retreatant to locate appropriate roommate where silence can be maintained). Register at olph-retreat.org.

 

Faith & Wine returns in December

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

 

Advent Retreat at OLPH

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

 

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

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

 

Prison Ministry volunteers needed throughout Diocese

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

 

Catholic Charities offer Tele-Mental Health Counseling Services

Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice is offering Tele-Mental Health Counseling for adults and children provided by licensed mental health therapists. If you or someone you know is feeling stressed, anxious, depressed, helpless, or overwhelmed, Catholic Charities can help. For more information on this no fee service, please call 239-455-2655 or visit Catholic Charities online: www.catholiccharitiesdov.org.

 

Free Rosary Repair Service

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

New Pastor installed at St. Francis Xavier in Fort Myers

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Bishop Frank J. Dewane installed Father Steven Clemente as Pastor of St. Francis Xavier Parish in Fort Myers on Oct. 19, 2025, in the context of the Mass.

“I ask that you pray for Father to have the grace needed as he takes on the task in leading St. Francis Xavier Parish,” Bishop Dewane said. “I also ask you, the parishioners, to do your best to support Father when you can. You are not going to agree 100% of the time, but that’s okay. In the end you have to come together and support Father in whatever path he chooses.”

St. Francis Xavier Parish dates to the 1870s when the Catholic community was originally served by traveling Jesuit priests from the Tampa area. The original name of the Fort Myers mission was Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary when Masses were celebrated in a stable and a private residence. The name was changed to St. Francis Xavier in 1890 when the first church in Fort Myers was built. With the construction of the second church, the Parish was established in 1910. The current church was built in 1961 and renovated in 1977. The original steeple for the first Parish church was restored and sits as a monument on the Parish property. St. Francis Xavier Catholic School opened in 1938. The Parish includes 1,000 families and offers Mass in English and Haitian-Creole.

Bishop Dewane initiated the installation process by calling Father Clemente to the ambo following the homily. Father then recited an Oath of Fidelity in which he promises to “adhere to the teachings, which either the Roman Pontiff or the College of Bishops enunciate when they exercise authentic magisterium.” Father Clemente then recited, along with the parishioners, the profession of faith, including additional parts solely for him. The installation also included prayers to provide the new Pastor the wisdom and guidance from the Holy Spirit to lead the Parish.

Documents were then signed by the Bishop, the new Pastor, and two official witnesses of the Parish Community, who serve as official witnesses on behalf of all of the parishioners. Copies of these documents are put in the Diocesan files for the Parish and Father, while a copy is kept at the Parish. Bishop Dewane then presented Father Clemente as the new Pastor to the gathered faithful to enthusiastic applause.

After Mass, Father Clemente first thanked Bishop Dewane for the honor of appointing him and trusting him to lead St. Frank Xavier, while also thanking the faithful for being so supportive since his assignment to the Parish in 2022.

Father Clemente said that when he first arrived at St. Francis Xavier, he asked the faithful to join him in building a vision for the future of the Parish, a journey that continues to this day.

“It takes faith and it takes people to pull it off,” Father said. “We have done some amazing things here and I want to thank you for helping me do that.”

A reception followed in the Parish Hall.

2025 Marriage Conference inspires couples

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The 5th annual Diocese of Venice, “Together in Holiness” Marriage Conference, presented in partnership with the St. John Paul II Foundation, took place Oct. 18, 2025, at Our Lady of Light Parish in Fort Myers, and was a great success.

More than 125 couples, representing 40 Parishes, took part in this event which was intended to allow couples to grow together in holiness, learn to form their children in the Catholic Faith, and enjoy a day of quality time with their spouse. The theme for the Conference was: “Family, a School of Love,” a description of marriage developed by St. John Paul II which calls for couples to renew their love for one another and with God.

The day offered couples an opportunity to reconnect with their spouse through conversation and prayer during a day focused on helping them live their marriage vocation more faithfully and fruitfully. Many married couples brought their young children, with more than 60 enrolled in childcare throughout the day. In addition to married couples, engaged couples also participated.

The day included the Mass, celebrated by Bishop Frank J. Dewane, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and the availability of the Sacrament of Reconciliation. At the conclusion of the Mass, Bishop Dewane offered the couples a special marriage blessing.

Bishop Dewane told the couples that the key to a successful marriage is to develop a discourse with God. “You have to listen, because there are three of you in a marriage, with God as your anchor and guide.”

Citing Pope Leo XIV, Bishop Dewane said marriage is a covenant that leads others to know the power of God’s love.

“You are the witness, you are the example, you are the one the next generation is looking to, to see what God’s love is in a real sense,” Bishop Dewane. “God instituted the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony from the very beginning because you – husband and wife – contribute to the civilization of love in the world. You represent, make present, and magnify God’s love in the world. You are one heart, one soul joined together with God.”

One couple from St. Columbkille Parish in Fort Myers, married for 15 years with two children, said they went to the event looking to have a greater focus on God in their married and family life. “We are both very busy with work and the children are involved in lots of sports and activities which makes it so hard to have time for God. We are working to refocus on getting everyone to church each weekend and to have more prayer at home. It is important to have a strong faith life, so this Conference will help us have the tools to grow closer to the Lord, as a family.”

The Conference included inspirational talks by Catholic speakers Dr. Ryan Hanning, and Deacon Jason and Rachel Bulman, as well as Father David Portorreal, Administrator at St. Peter the Apostle Parish in Naples.

To learn more about other Diocese of Venice initiatives in the support of marriage and family, please contact Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseofvenice.org, or 941-484-9543.

 

Sacred Heart of Jesus devotion project coming to Diocesan schools

Posted on by Bob Reddy

An annual initiative of the Diocese of Venice Department of Education is the development of the devotional and prayer lives of its students through a Diocesan-wide devotional project.

For 2025-2026 the devotional project is about the Sacred Heart of Jesus, which focuses on teaching the more than 6,700 Diocesan Catholic school students about the Sacred Heart of Jesus in a continued effort to help each student grow closer to the Lord.

The focus on the devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus is supported by Bishop Frank J. Dewane, who has encouraged the Catholic schools devotional project since its inception in the 2020-2021 academic year.

Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocesan Superintendent of Catholic Education, and Dr. Jennifer Falestiny, Diocesan Curriculum Director, conducted a Junior Catechist Training session on Oct. 17, 2025, at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Venice.

The training was for eighth grade leaders from each of the Diocese’s 12 elementary schools. In the coming months, these Junior Catechists will go into the classroom to teach their younger schoolmates about the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and how to grow closer to the Lord.

Father Belmonte celebrated the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass for the students, teachers and parents. Following the Mass, Father Belmonte led the catechists in consecrating themselves to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus.

“This year, you will be giving your classmates the opportunity to teach about the love of God through the Heart of Christ, and giving them hope, which is a theological virtue,” Father said. “We live in a world where there is little faith in God’s power and a presumption that God does not care. We can be saved – God does save us by the power of His love, the grace given to us through the sacraments of the Holy Mother Church. A state of grace is a real possibility. The grace of God is abundant as we are drawn to His Love.”

The Junior Catechists training focused on the tools each will use to teach their classmates the fundamentals about a devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The lesson begins by asking the fundamental question – ‘What is a heart?’ and builds upon the idea of Jesus’ Sacred Heart, and what that means. The students will examine the various symbols: crown of thorns, flames, cross, rays of light, and wound, which combine to become a visual representation of His Divine Love – a love that never ends.

Included in the training kit are lesson plans, a 3-D lighted Sacred Heart model, a painting of Jesus and the Sacred Heart.

“Each of these lessons are differentiated by grade level and customized to make the Sacred Heart of Jesus cool and accessible for everyone,” Falestiny said. “We are taking something they already know and building on that.”

As in previous years, the devotional project will include an art competition. Students will be encouraged to produce artwork based on our Catholic artistic tradition around the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The Junior Catechists and art contest winners will gather in the spring for a Mass and reception.

This is the sixth year Diocesan Catholic schools have participated in a devotional project, with 2024-2025 focused on Angels, more specifically on Guardian Angels, 2023-2024 on the Most Holy Rosary, 2022-2023 on the Most Holy Eucharist, 2021-2022 on the Saints and the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of Saints, and 2020-2021 on St. Joseph.

Red Masses celebrated for legal community in Sarasota and Fort Myers

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Invoking the Holy Spirit, Bishop Frank J. Dewane recently asked that insight and graces be bestowed upon legal professionals and that above all they be people of mercy.

Bishop Dewane made these remarks during two Red Masses for legal professionals, first Oct. 21, 2025, at St. Martha Parish in Sarasota, and then Oct. 22, at St. Francis Xavier Parish in Fort Myers. The name for the Mass comes from the red vestments worn by the celebrants, and for the calling of grace and guidance from the Holy Spirit to come upon all who seek and serve justice.

“Allow the law to serve the common good,” Bishop Dewane said. “Behind every legal question stands a human person – made in the image and likeness of God – a human predicament crying out for a just outcome.”

The law is entrusted to men and women for the sake of the common good working to protect the vulnerable and restrain the powerful, Bishop Dewane continued.

“You know better than most that the world today needs good stewards,” the Bishop said. “Public discourse often trades truth for opinion. Moral relativism clouds our innate sense of right and wrong. Too often people treat the law as a weapon or a tool of power rather than as an instrument of justice. The unity of truth and goodness, once assumed, is now fractured.

“With the state of the world today, you confront these challenges with every client and every case. In such a climate you labor daily to be worthy custodians of the law. The Church encourages you to remember that all law finds its ultimate source in the law written by God upon the human heart,” Bishop Dewane concluded.

The Red Mass in the Diocese of Venice began in 2008 when legal professionals in Sarasota wanted to emulate similar, more well-known Masses which take place each year for the U.S. Supreme Court in Washington, D.C., and by the Florida Bishops for the Florida Legislature in Tallahassee.

A centuries old tradition of the Catholic Church, the first Red Mass was celebrated by Pope Innocent IV in the Cathedral of Paris in 1243 for the Ecclesiastical Judicial Court asking for the “Invocation of the Holy Spirit” as a source of wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, and strength for the coming term of the court. This tradition was adopted in England during the reign of Edward II. The entire bench and bar attended the Red Mass together at the opening of each term of court and it became tradition that the priests wear red vestments.

Longtime Catholic Charities supporter dies

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Richard “Dick” Porell, a longtime supporter of Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice passed away on October 10, 2025, in Glastonbury, Connecticut. He was 92.

Porell was born in Connecticut in 1933 and later attended Yale University. He served in the U.S. Army before working for Travelers Insurance Company as an actuary, working in data processing and then programing before working his way to becoming Executive Vice President of Metrahealth, the parent company of Travelers and Metropolitan Life. Upon retirement, Porell and his wife, Elizabeth (Betty) moved to Southwest Florida.

While in Southwest Florida, the Porells began a long association with the Diocese of Venice and Catholic Charities. Richard Porell first served as the treasurer of a small mission church and then as the treasurer of the Board of Directors of the Diocese of Venice, and later as treasurer of Catholic Charities. There he mentored the charity leadership.

A believer in the dignity of each person, Porell began work on a housing project for migrant workers in Arcadia and was instrumental getting Casa San Juan Bosco Farmworker Housing community developed. For his effort a street in the community is named in his honor. The couple then turned their focus to helping battered women and women in recovery, purchasing, refurbishing and furnishing several small housing units for them in Southwest Florida.

For their longtime support of Catholic Charities, Richard and Elizabeth Porell were honored with the 2016 Frank Gaelena, Sr. Humanitarian Award during the Venetian Charity Ball in Fort Myers.

Porell is survived by his wife of 69 years, Elizabeth, their six children, many grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Richard Porell is 10 a.m., Nov. 8, 2025, at St. Peter Claver Church in West Harford, Connecticut. This will be followed by a burial at Mount Saint Benedict Cemetery in Bloomfield.

Youth minsters gather for retreat

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Youth leaders from across the Diocese of Venice gathered for a “Day of Reflection” Oct. 21, 2025, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice.

The retreat was an opportunity for the youth ministers to learn from each other about the joy and challenges of leading youth programs.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass for the youth ministers, thanking them for the important work they do in keeping an important segment of the Church population active in the faith.

“You have the responsibility to form your students so that they are ready in their lives, to know who the Lord is, and to know what their response to His call will be. They need to be people of action,” Bishop Dewane said. “They learn to do this through prayer and by knowing how to pray. Prayer is the raising of the heart and mind to God. That is a succinct formula the young people can digest. They understand those terms and can dispose of themselves to do that. You, as youth ministers, have to install that in the youth, allowing them to make themselves channels of establishing that relationship with Jesus Christ through an active prayer life.”

A key challenge to this is balancing the goal of keeping the youth engaged and growing in their faith versus them being distracted by a world that pulls them in the opposite direction.

Andres Prias, Diocesan Director of Youth & Young Adult Outreach, said the focus of youth outreach is to “Listen, Teach, Send.” Prias, who has worked with youth for more than 30 years, encouraged the youth ministers to provide the youth real experiences of Jesus Christ.

“You need to be a part of their world, because what you do is not done in isolation from the real world,” Prias said.

To do that, each must offer activities that are both social and faith filled. Finding the right balance will lead to success.

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