By Sharon Tolnai, Special to the Florida Catholic
St. William Parish in Naples welcomed more than 200 parishioners and guests on June 13, 2026, for a daylong “Life in the Spirit Seminar.”
The seminar was designed to deepen personal faith and invite a renewed openness to the Holy Spirit. Organized by Cheryl Geary, Director of Adult Faith Formation at St. William, as an inter-Parish event, the seminar blended teaching, discussion groups, music, and prayer into a vibrant spiritual experience.
Participants began the day with a series of presentations by ministry leaders from various Parishes. Margie DeFrancesca, Barbara Rygiel, along with Dr. Ray and Gonette Caparros, each from St. Agnes Parish, offered reflections on recognizing the Holy Spirit’s Presence in daily life and embracing spiritual gifts with courage and humility.
Small-group discussions followed the presentations, giving attendees the chance to share personal experiences, ask questions, and build community. Many described these conversations as one of the most meaningful parts of the day, noting how they helped translate the seminar’s themes into practical steps for spiritual growth.
Dr. Sue Ellen Nolan, Director of Religious Education at St. Ann Parish, added her insights on cultivating a life of ongoing conversion, discipleship, and prepared the group for the prayer service.
The prayer service for a greater outpouring of the Holy Spirit was led by Father George Ratzmann, Pastor of St. William, Father Marco Mascia, Parochial Vicar of St William, Father Antony Lukka, Parochial Vicar of St. John the Evangelist Parish, along with Fathers Binu Joseph and Alan Baldarelli, Parochial Vicars of St. Agnes Parish.
Music filled the room providing a backdrop for moments of reflection as guests were invited to open their hearts to renewal and deeper faith.
Geary expressed gratitude for the strong turnout and the collaboration among neighboring parishes. Many attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose, describing the seminar as both uplifting and transformative—a reminder that the Holy Spirit continues to move powerfully within the Diocese of Venice!
Sharon Tolnai is the Program Coordinator at St. William Parish in Naples. She can be reached at sharon@saintwilliam.org.
