bishop frank dewane Archives - Diocese of Venice

The Diocese of Venice receives Its Third Shepherd: Bishop-elect Biosca visits the Diocese for the first time

Posted on May 22, 2026May 22, 2026 by Bob Reddy

On May 13, Pope Leo XIV accepted the resignation of Bishop Frank J. Dewane, who will retire, and appointed Bishop–elect Emilio Biosca Agüero, OFM Cap., as the third Shepherd of the Diocese of Venice in Florida. Bishop-elect Biosca, a member of the Capuchin Franciscan Friars of the Province of Saint Augustine in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, since 2019 has served as Pastor of the Shrine of the Sacred Heart in Washington, D.C.

Following the announcement of the Pope’s appointment from the Nuncio, the Vatican representative in the United States, the historic announcement was shared by the Diocese of Venice later that morning at a press conference in the Diocesan Catholic Center in Venice. Both Bishops spoke to the press, and answered questions, with Bishop Dewane already giving high praise to the Bishop-elect.

“Bishop-elect is enthusiastic, with a strong pastoral spirit and particular devotion to the Virgin Mary and to serving the People of God. With all of you, I welcome him to our Diocesan family, which will be greatly blessed by his ministry, and I very much look forward to getting to know him as in just a few days he has shown himself to be a deeply spiritual and exceptional priest,” Bishop Dewane said.

Bishop-elect Biosca arrived in the Diocese a day earlier, on May 12, and subsequently took part in a series of meetings with Bishop Dewane and Dr. Volodymyr Smeryk, Diocesan Chancellor. These meetings were to assist Bishop-elect Biosca in preparing for the public announcement as well as orienting him with the inner workings of the Diocese which includes 61 Parishes, 15 Diocesan Catholic schools, and serves 250,000-plus Catholics in 10 counties.

The day of the announcement, Bishop Dewane brought Bishop-elect Biosca to the Catholic Center, where Diocesan staff awaited his arrival. The staff warmly welcomed both, with Bishop Dewane telling Bishop-elect Biosca that he is inheriting great group of people. “The building might be small but there is a ton of talent inside.”

Among the first things that took place, before the press conference, was a Mass for Catholic Center staff in the Chapel, celebrated by Bishop Dewane, with the Bishop-elect and Rev. John Belmonte, S.J., concelebrating. At the conclusion, Bishop-elect Biosca spoke to the staff, expressing how thrilled he was to be in the Diocese, He noted his last visit to the region was in 2003 during a family reunion on Siesta Key. He also shared about his background, including his experiences first as a missionary in Papau New Guinea and then in Cuba, before being assigned to the Shrine of the Sacred Heart in Washington.

Bishop-elect Biosca offered words of encouragement to the staff, telling them it is they, at the Diocesan level, who help spread evangelization throughout the Diocese. “You are very important to the work, strength and vitality of the Parishes, because priests come and go, but it is the lay people who have a tremendous effect on the strength of the Diocese.” The Bishop-elect said he would get a list of the staff names and their assignments and would pray for each. “We know how powerful prayer is. What you do is a big responsibility and I thank you.” He also received a list of all priest and religious in the Diocese to add to his prayer list.

While in the Diocese for only a few days, Bishop-elect Biosca had the opportunity to meet numerous Diocesan priests, and to visit Epiphany Cathedral, which is currently in the middle of a major reconstruction, as well as St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers, where the ordination and installation will take place. In addition, he was able to see several Diocesan senior housing sites, an important outreach for the Diocese.

On May 14, the day after the announcement of his appointment, Bishop-elect Biosca toured Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice. During the visit he had the opportunity to meet with the Director, Father Greg Cleveland, OMV, the business manager, as well as several other staff and volunteers having brief encounters which was very exciting for all.

During the tour, the Bishop-elect visited the Conference Center, main offices, dining hall and kitchen, the Blessed Virgin Mary Monument, St. Joseph Chapel, and one of the villas, each of which was rehabilitated following severe flooding in 2022 during Hurricane Ian.

While visiting the Chapel, Bishop-elect Biosca took a few minutes to pray. He also took great interest in various religious items, including the Chapel crucifix, the image of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, the statue of St. Joseph and others, taking several pictures to use as reference later.

By chance, a retreat for fifth grade students from St. Martha Catholic School and St. Mary Academy in Sarasota was taking place at the time of the Bishop-elect’s visit. In the Conference Center Bishop-elect Biosca greeted the students and then shared personal details about his life, including a memorable retreat he attended as teen. The property, operated by missionaries from Belgium, was so beautiful that he asked to return to assist in raking the leaves just so that he could be at such a special place.

Bishop-elect Biosca told the students about his missionary work, saying that it had been a dream of his to do such work for the Capuchin Order, but admitted he would have been just as happy assigned to a Parish. When going off to do missionary work, he explained how he made a conscious decision to completely immerse himself in the culture and history of the area, and would learn the language. “I thought, ‘Let me go to this place and only think about this place.’ So, when I arrived, I only worried about the place, the people there, and the Church. I could have stayed there forever.”

This experience served him well as he said it allowed him to learn about the people who had only had first contact with the outside world a few short decades before his arrival in 1994. To the fascination of the students, he added that he learned from them how to make a fire with just bamboo and grass.

Bishop-elect Biosca said he did the same immersion process to his next missionary assignment in Cuba, where his parents are from, which was a different set of circumstances because the country is Communist-run and persecute those who openly practice their faith.

The students asked several questions of Bishop-elect Biosca, mostly focused on whether he always wanted to be a Bishop or why, “I always wanted to be a priest. Bishop is something that was not in my plans, but God has his own plans.”

He explained that his first interest in becoming a priest started when he was preparing for First Holy Communion in second grade. “I thought, ‘Wow! I think I’d like to be a priest. It faded a bit in early high school and thought maybe I’d get married and have a family but later I seriously started thinking about the priesthood.”

Bishop-elect Biosca concluded his visit with the students by offering a blessing for them, their family, their friends and their teachers, reminding them that by their actions they may have a special relationship with the Lord. He concluded, “May the Almighty God bless you through the intercession of the Immaculate Virgin Mary, St. Joseph and all the saints.”

Although only in the Diocese for a few days, Bishop-elect Biosca was able to meet a variety of people from across the region and his interactions with them reflected his humble and reflective nature. He was excited to learn about the growth of the region and possibilities for evangelization of people of all ages and backgrounds.

Admittedly still in a state of wonder and amazement at his appointment and the confidence Pope Leo has placed in him, Bishop-elect Biosca asked many he met to pray for him, “that I may serve faithfully and joyfully as a shepherd after the Heart of Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd.”

In the weeks leading to his ordination as Bishop and installation, Bishop-elect Biosca will be returning to the Diocese of Venice on several occasions for additional meetings to ensure the transition from Bishop Dewane to Bishop-elect Biosca goes smoothly.

To learn more about Bishop-elect Emilio Biosca Agüero, OFM Cap., including a biography and other information related to the May 13 announcement of his appointment, please visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/bishop-elect/.

Cathedral’s new church bells blessed

Posted on May 22, 2026 by Bob Reddy

To the cheers of the faithful, Bishop Frank J. Dewane presided over the Blessing of the Bells at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice on May 16, 2026.

Bishop Dewane was joined by the clergy and more than 500 of the faithful of Epiphany Cathedral and the Diocese of Venice for the Blessing of the Bells that will be installed as part of the reconstruction of the Cathedral.

The Mayor of Venice, the Honorable Nick Pachota, was also present for this joyous occasion, as well as Brian Baker, President of Baker Liturgical Art. Baker Liturgical Art, a leading nationwide company dedicated to liturgical design, restoration and renovation, was commissioned by Bishop Dewane to complete a major restoration and renovation of Epiphany Cathedral, including the creation of a 75-foot bell tower and four custom cast bronze church bells.

The bells are of particular significance, as they represent more than simply architectural additions; they are living instruments of praise, inviting hearts to prayer and lifting the soul toward heaven.

“The unmistakable peal of church bells calls all to the celebration of the liturgy and to prayer,” Bishop Dewane said. “Bells alert us to important events in the life of the Church and the community: Mass, prayer, weddings, funerals. This is a historic moment not only for Epiphany’s Cathedral’s parishioners, but for the entire Diocese, as it marks a significant milestone in the renovation and rejuvenation of the Cathedral of the Diocese of Venice.”

In addition to blessing the bells with holy water, Bishop Dewane also chimed the largest bell with a hammer, the beautiful sound reverberating through the delighted crowd.

For centuries tradition has called for church bells to be not only blessed but also named, as they represent “the voice of God,” calling people to worship. Alternatively, it has been said that church bells represent the voice of the faithful, calling out to God. Naming bells can be traced back to the year 968, when Pope John XIII dedicated a bell to St. John the Baptist.

“Epiphany Cathedral’s new bells have been named in recognition of the Catholic Solemnity of The Epiphany, celebrated on January 6, marking the revelation of Jesus Christ as the Son of God and Savior of the world,” explained Msgr. Patrick Dubois, Rector of Epiphany Cathedral. “The four bells are named after the Magi, or Wise Men, who visited Jesus at His birth, as well as after the Star that led the Magi to Jesus. Hence the bells will be called Melchior, Gaspar, Balthazar and The Star of Bethlehem.”

The new church bells are made of cast bronze and together weigh 3,658 lbs. They were crafted by Marinelli Pontifical Bell Foundry of Agnone, Italy, the oldest bell foundry in the world, now in its 27th generation as a family-run business. The Marinelli bells are well-known for their elegant form and distinctive, resonant sound, and are richly decorated with custom inscriptions and artistic reliefs, including the Diocese of Venice Crest. They will be installed in a new 75-foot bell tower at Epiphany Cathedral later this summer.

For many this blessing of the bells showed exciting forward progress in the ongoing reconstruction of Epiphany Cathedral. One woman in attendance at the special ceremony exclaimed that the blessing of the bells was an important milestone for the project which has been in progress for two years. “What a beautiful sound to hear that bell ring. This is very exciting. Next will be the dedication of the new Cathedral. I cannot wait.”

The renovation and reconstruction of Epiphany Cathedral began in June 2024, and work is expected to be completed by Thanksgiving this year. Among the major new aspects of the Cathedral will be a marble reredos (altarpiece) with a large-scale mosaic of the Epiphany, and new liturgical appointments including altar, ambo, throne, cathedra, baptismal font, stained glass windows, mosaic stations of the cross, new pews, and more. In addition, a statue of the pieta will be added adjacent to the Memorial Garden, which will remain undisturbed.

Following the blessing, most of those present took the opportunity to join a special tour of the inside of the Cathedral construction site, led by Msgr. Dubois. Many were awed by the new vaulted ceiling and the Italian marble that has been installed on the altar and were encouraged to see how much progress has already been made, all eager for the day the work is completed. Since the reconstruction began, Mass has been held in the Parish Hall, the original Epiphany Parish church.

Some naming opportunities for the bells and other liturgical elements are still available. To learn more, visit www.epiphanycathedral.org/naming-opportunities, or contact William Slayton at slayton@epiphanycathedral.org or call 941-615-0284.

Catholic Scouting Awards presented

Posted on May 22, 2026 by Bob Reddy

Girls and boys from throughout the Diocese of Venice participated in Mass on May 17, 2026, Ascension Sunday, at Our Lady of Light Parish in Fort Myers, wearing the uniforms of their Scout troops.

Designated as “Scouting Sunday,” the Mass was followed by an award ceremony in the Parish Hall to celebrate and recognize the girls and boys who commit themselves to scouting while remaining true to the Faith. Members of Scouting America and American Heritage Girls (AHG) participated in the ceremony.

During the Award Ceremony and reception, Bishop Frank J. Dewane presented dozens of Scouting Religious Awards, with some Scouts receiving multiple honors.

Bishop Dewane told the Scouts that it is his prayer that the awards will continually give them encouragement to grow in their relationship with the Lord.

Catholic Scouting offers the opportunity for young people to grow in virtue, develop moral character, and to promote care for God’s creation,” Bishop Dewane said. “Participation in these programs is a powerful tool for evangelization and service as well as an act of discipline that strengthens body, mind, and soul. Most importantly, it provides opportunities to grow closer to Jesus Christ.”

The awards earned from the National Catholic Committee on Scouting (NCCS) Religious Activities Awards included: Modern Saints Series, Rosary Series, Marian Series, Faith Series, and American Saints Series. Diocesan Scout Awards included: Child of God, Mother Mary, and Queen of the Rosary. American Heritage Girls Scouting Awards included: Tenderheart Faith, Explorer Faith, International Awareness Activity, Luminous Mysteries Activity, Martyrs of Canada, U.S., and Mexico Activity Patch (Heritage Series), and Our Lady of Guadalupe Activity (Marian Series). The Catholic Scouting America award included: Parvuli Dei.

Each award requires the Scout to participate in different activities which help increase their Faith. The awards become more difficult to earn as the Scout advances.

Additional awards were presented during the ceremony to adult Scouting leaders. The Pray the Rosary Activity Patch (Rosary Series), part of the five-part Rosary Series offered by the National Catholic Committee on Scouting (NCCS), was presented to Megan Van Wart, Scouting America Troop 2001G. The St. George Emblem, a prestigious national adult recognition in Scouting America that honors individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the spiritual development of youth, was presented to Dr. Monica Woodward, Scouting America Troop 2001.

At the conclusion of the awards ceremony, Bishop Frank J. Dewane was presented with a 100th anniversary Ad Altare Dei neckerchief and patch, which features the historic emblem first establish in 1926 in tribute to the oldest Catholic religious emblem program.

Adam Van Wart, a member of the Diocesan Catholic Committee on Scouting, offered a status of Scouting in the Diocese and recognized the efforts of Bishop Dewane as a champion of Catholic Scouting during his 20 years as Shepherd of the Diocese of Venice.

Also participating in the ceremony was Jim Gontis, Diocesan Director of Evangelization, and Andres Prias, Diocesan Director of Youth and Young Adult Outreach.

News Briefs for the week of May 22, 2026

Posted on May 22, 2026 by Bob Reddy

Neumann baseball team reaches state semifinals

The St. John Neumann Catholic High School baseball team from Naples represented the school at the state class 1a semifinals on May 14, 2026, in Fort Myers. The Celtics reached the semifinals by winning a 3-game regional final over Canterbury on May 8 and 9. The team fell in the semifinal against Orangewood Christian of Maitland with a final score of 6-4. The Celtics finished the season with a 21-14 record. Congratulations on a great season!

Diocesan Finance Council bids farewell to Bishop

The Diocesan Finance Council Board Meeting on May 18, 2026, at the Diocesan Catholic Center in Venice, included a farewell cake for Bishop Frank J. Dewane, who is retiring as Bishop of the Diocese of Venice after 20 years of faithful service. A new Bishop will be installed on July 11.

Pregnancy Center open house May 28

The North River Care Pregnancy Center, 1020 10 Ave. W., Unit 100, Palmetto, will be hosting an open house of its facilities from 4-7 p.m., May 28, 2026. The public is encouraged to tour the space and meet the team and learn how North River Care supports women and families in the community, as called for by the United States Catholic Bishops’ Walking with Moms in Need program. Whether you are curious, passionate about the Respect Life mission, or looking to join the board or volunteer, this is a wonderful opportunity to learn more and connect. Please RSVP by calling 941-729-9004.

Worldwide Marriage Encounter in Tampa June 5-7

Successful marriages don’t work on automatic pilot. Like a garden, these unions require constant attention: fertilizing, watering, and weeding. Join the Worldwide Marriage Encounter and discover God’s plan for joy, romance and passion in your marriage June 5-7, 2026, at the Franciscan Center in Tampa. This is the closest Worldwide Marriage Encounter to the Diocese of Venice in 2026. Apply today at www.wwme.org or call 813-270-7832.

Rummage Sale in Punta Gorda June 6

The Sacred Heart Conference of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul is hosting its next Rummage Sale 8 a.m.-11 a.m., June 6, 2026, at 25200 Airport Road, Punta Gorda. Items available for purchase will include household items, furniture, linens, clothing, shoes, purses, jewelry, books and toys. Proceeds will go toward the Society’s continuing efforts to raise money to assist those in need in the community. For more information, please call 941-575-0767.

Inter-Parish “Life in the Spirit” seminar in Naples June 13

St. William Parish, 750 Seagate Drive, Naples, is hosting an Inter-Parish “Life in the Spirit” seminar, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m., June 13, 2026, in the Blessed Mother Center. The seminar will be facilitated by representatives from St. William, St. Agnes, St. Ann and St. John the Evangelist Parishes. The seminar will include talks, discussion groups, and a prayer service for a greater outpouring of the Holy Spirit in one’s personal life. There will be music and fellowship and a light lunch is included. RSVP by email and include your name and contact number to Susan Westly at susan@saintwilliam.org. Please include “Life in the Spirit Seminar” in the subject line. For additional details call 239-397-5757.

Day of Reflection Marriage Retreat June 20

A Day of Reflection Marriage Retreat is scheduled for June 20, 2026, at St. John the Evangelist Parish in Naples. The retreat offers a specially prepared volunteer team who will share their experiences and information, enabling couples to be more aware of the privileges and responsibilities of marriage. Register at https://dioceseofvenice.regfox.com/2026-day-of-reflection-mp-retreat. Please contact Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseofvenice.org, or 941-486-4754.

Retreat Center open house June 27

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice is inviting the faithful to join them for a day of prayer, rest, renewal, and fellowship for an Open House, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., June 27, 2026, the Feast of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. Come spend time exploring the peaceful grounds, touring the facilities, meeting the team, and learning more about the retreats and programs offered at the Center. Whether you have visited many times or have never been before, the OLPH team would love to welcome you. OLPH is located at 3989 S. Moon Dr., in Venice. Please RSVP by June 20, 2026, by calling 941-486-0233.

BEWARD OF TEXT AND EMAIL SCAMS

It has been brought to the attention of the Diocese that 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. These messages often come from text/emails that look similar to official Diocesan/Parish/school numbers or accounts and often greet the recipient by name and have the priest’s, Bishop’s, or staff member’s name in the “From” line and/or closing signature of the message. The fake message often claims that the priest/Bishop/staff member is in need of gift cards or money to aid a sick child, relative, or parishioner. THIS IS A SCAM! 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 in place on how parishioners can make donations and participate in the life of the Diocese, Parish, or school. If you receive such a text or email, please immediately contact the Diocesan/Parish/school directly!

Mental Health Counseling Services

Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice is offering Mental Health Counseling, and Tele-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, please call 239-455-2655 or visit Catholic Charities online

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

Retreat Center seeks volunteers

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice needs your help; they are looking for volunteers. Help provide a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere for those who come to OLPH seeking transformation in Christ. Areas of need include reception, gardening, dishwashing, and serving meals. Contact the office to sign up at 941-486-0233 or visit www.olph-retreat.org/new-volunteer.

Free Rosary Repair Service

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

Private retreats available

The fall schedule of private retreats at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice is posted and has openings for Desert Days, 3, 5, and 7-night individual (directed) retreats. Group retreats are also available: To learn more or to register for a group or private retreat, please visit our website: http://www.olph-retreat.org/individual-retreat-overview.

A new Shepherd for Venice

Posted on May 15, 2026May 15, 2026 by Bob Reddy

Mandatory resignation accepted for Bishop Frank J. Dewane; Capuchin Franciscan priest named as new Prelate

By Bob Reddy – Florida Catholic

On May 13, 2026, Pope Leo XIV accepted the resignation of Bishop Frank J. Dewane of Venice, and appointed Bishop-elect Emilio Biosca Agüero, OFM Cap., as Bishop-elect of Venice, a priest of the Archdiocese of Washington, and native of Colorado Springs, Colorado, as the new shepherd of the 10-county Southwest Florida Diocese.

The announcement was made by Pope Leo early in the morning on May 13, the Feast of Our Lady of Fatima, and announced by Bishop Emeritus Frank J. Dewane at a press conference later that morning.

Bishop Dewane introduced the Bishop-elect Biosca, a member of the Capuchin Franciscan Friars of the Province of Saint Augustine in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, who since 2018 has served as Pastor of the Shrine of the Sacred Heart in Washington, D.C. He was ordained to the priesthood on May 21, 1994, for the Capuchin Franciscan Province of St. Augustine. He also served as a missionary in Papua New Guinea and later in Cuba. (See full bio on Page 2.)

“In accord with canon law, I submitted my resignation to the Pope over a year ago on my seventy-fifth birthday, and, with the appointment of Bishop-elect Agüero, it is now formally accepted,” Bishop Dewane said. “As of today, I am officially the Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Venice in Florida and have been appointed its Apostolic Administrator until the day of Bishop-elect Agüero’s ordination which will take place on July 11, 2026.”

After being formally introduced by Bishop Dewane, Bishop-elect Biosca said having heard from Cardinal Christophe Pierre, Apostolic Nuncio Emeritus to the United States, he accepted the appointment with trust in the Divine Providence of God. He also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Holy Father, Pope Leo, for “his prayerful support and for the confidence he has placed in me through this appointment. Mindful of the weight of this responsibility, I entrust myself to Our Lady of Mercy and to St. Mark, co-patrons of this youthful and thriving Diocese of Venice.”

“I am thrilled to be here and filled with joy to begin this new chapter together in faith and charity. I am also eager to join you in the great task of evangelization, growing together in our knowledge of Christ and sharing the profound hope of the Gospel,” Bishop-elect Biosca said.

“I wish to express my sincere gratitude to Bishop Dewane, who has faithfully shepherded this local Church for 20 years. His pastoral charity, generous heart, and warm welcome have already been a great gift to me. I look forward to continuing to seek his guidance as I begin this ministry.”

Bishop-elect Biosca also thanked his Capuchin Provincial Minister, Father Robert Marva, the members of the Provincial Council, and his Capuchin brothers for their fraternal and prayerful support throughout his life. He then thanked Cardinal Robert W. McElroy, of the Archdiocese of Washington, and Bishop Juan Esposito-Garcia, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese, for their support during the past days in preparation for this announcement.

Bishop-elect Biosca then shared words from the “Saving of Light and Love,” (#73) of St. John the Cross, which has accompanied him throughout his life: “What does it profit you to give God one thing, if He ask of you another? Consider what – it is – God wants, and then do it. You will as a result better satisfy your heart than, with that, toward which you yourself are inclined.”

“I look forward to entering into the life of this local Church: to know its people, to understand its history, to appreciate its customs and traditions, and to learn the events that have shaped the spiritual character of this region,” Bishop-elect Biosca added. “I hope to discover not only the history written in books and archives, but also the living history preserved in families, parishes, neighborhoods, and their witness to Christ.”

To the priests of the Diocese, who Bishop-elect Biosca said were going to be his principal and closest collaborators, he offered his fraternal greeting and deep respect. He expects to meet with the priests in small groups and individually, praying together, listening to them, and serving with them. Bishop-elect Biosca offered the same greeting to the men and women religious of the Diocese, thanking them for the witness of their consecrated lives and hopes to meet with them and support their evangelical form of life in the Church. In addition, Bishop-elect Biosca extended his gratitude to the lay leaders of the Diocese and of the Parishes, whose fidelity and generous service prove indispensable to the mission and structure of the Church. “Their witness in marriage and extended family reveals the vitality of the Gospel lived in daily life.”

Bishop-elect Biosca also offered comments in Spanish and concluded by saying, “I ask for your prayers, that I may serve faithfully and joyfully as a shepherd after the Heart of Christ for the Good Shepherd. God Bless you!”

Earlier in the day, Bishop Dewane introduced the new shepherd Bishop-elect Biosca to the staff of the Diocesan Catholic Center who were waiting for him at the entrance. After a few comments from both Bishop and Bishop-elect, the staff applauded their greetings, with many offering personal well-wishes. A short time later Bishop Dewane and Bishop-elect Biosca concelebrated the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass for the Diocesan staff in the Catholic Center Chapel. Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocesan Superintendent of Catholic Education, concelebrated.

A press conference in the Catholic Center main conference room took place, where both Bishop-elect Biosca and Bishop Dewane fielded questions. In addition to the media, also present were Diocesan priests and religious, as well as select invited lay leaders.

Bishop Dewane came to serve the Diocese of Venice in 2006, after serving as Under Secretary of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace where he served as a delegate of the Holy See to numerous international conferences and world summits, presenting the position of the Church, allowing for pastoral encounters with people throughout the world. As Bishop Dewane transitions to retirement, he said he looks forward to spending more time in prayer, study and travel.

“It has been a great joy for me to have ministered here for the past 20 years,” Bishop Dewane said. “I am pleased and very proud of the Catholic Community of the Diocese, who they are and who they are becoming, by their witness to Christ. This has become possible by the great pastoral care and service that the priests, both Diocesan and Religious, have provided. As I retire, it is my plan to remain in the Diocese of Venice, which has become my home as it has for so many others from the Midwest. To the Priests, Deacons, and joy-filled laity, thank you all for being a wonderful family of faith, hope, and love. I look forward to my continued home here assisting the new Bishop pastorally, in any manner I can.”

2026 May Crownings honor Mary

Posted on May 15, 2026May 15, 2026 by Bob Reddy

Historically, May is a month dedicated by the Catholic Church to Mary, the Mother of God. As is well known, Mary plays an important and irreplaceable role in the spiritual life of the Church.

To honor the role the Blessed Virgin plays in the life of the Church, many Parishes and Catholic schools in the Diocese have May Crowning ceremonies during which a statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary is adorned with a crown of flowers. May is also the time when more than 3,000 young Catholics throughout the Diocese will receive the Sacrament of Holy Communion for the first time.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane led a May Crowning ceremony at the Catholic Center in Venice on May 7, 2026. During the ceremony, Bishop Dewane prayed that the “Holy Mother may intercede for all of us so that we may serve her Son, Jesus Christ in all aspects of our lives.” Catholic Center staff joined in singing songs to Our Lady with refreshments offered afterwards.

The Crowning of the Statue of Mary at Our Lady of Grace Parish in Avon Park took place on May 2, during a Mass for First Holy Communion. There were 19 children who received the Sacrament from Father Ronnie Sison, Pastor of Our Lady of Grace. For the Mass, each of the girls wore white dresses while the boys wore white dress shirts with black ties. The Statue of Mary was placed in a prominent location on the top step of the altar.

On May 4, at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School in Port Charlotte, the May Crowning ceremony took place in the school courtyard and was led the second graders.

The May Crowning for the students at St. Ann Catholic School in Naples took place during Mass on May 8. Mary was crowned by an eighth grader while second grade students, those who would receive their First Holy Communion the next day, presented flowers in Our Lady’s honor.

News Briefs for the week of May 15, 2026

Posted on May 15, 2026May 15, 2026 by Bob Reddy

Appointments

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

Father Gustavo Correa Garcia, has been relieved of his duties as Parochial Vicar of St. Leo the Great Parish in Bonita Springs, effective May 10, 2026, and thus has returned to the Diocese of Worcester.

Father Leszek Sikorski, a priest of the Diocese of Venice, has retired, effective May 1, 2026. Father had been on assignment outside of the Diocese, as a Chaplain in the U.S. Military since July 31, 2004.

Bishop Dewane encourages Catholic school students to finish year strong

Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass for students at St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral on May 7, 2026. During the Mass, Bishop Dewane prayed that were making the most of their Catholic education by growing closer to the Lord. The Bishop also encouraged the students to finish the school year strong, noting how it will propel them into success going forward. Following the Mass, Bishop Dewane took time to speak with the eighth graders, who were encouraged to ask questions. Most of the questions revolved around what it is like to be a Bishop. Afterward, the Bishop and the eighth graders stood together for a group photo.

Bishop celebrates Baccalaureate Mass for Ave Maria University

Bishop Frank J. Dewane was the main celebrant for the Ave Maria University Baccalaureate Mass on May 8, 2026, in Ave Maria. The homilist was Most Rev. Stephen D. Parkes, Bishop of Savannah, who also serves as a Board Member for the University. The Ave Maria University commencement exercises took place May 9. Gov. Ron DeSantis was the commencement speaker and received an honorary degree from the university.

Priest receives Papal blessing for 50th anniversary of ordination

Father Vincent Clemente, Pastor of St James Parish in Lake Placid, celebrated the 50th anniversary of his Priestly Ordination on May 8, 2026, with a reception at the St. Paul Parish Hall in Arcadia. During the reception Father Clemente was presented with a Papal Blessing from Pope Leo XIV.

Postal Service food collections help local pantries

The National Association of Letter Carriers’ annual Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive on May 9, 2026, was a huge success. The Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice food pantry receive more than 2,000 pounds of food. The pantry serves about 2,600 individuals and families each month. The Postal food drive also brought more than 55,700 pounds of food to the St. Joseph Food Pantry in Bradenton, the main food pantry for Manatee County, and in 2025 served more than 22,200 families, or more than 83,700 individuals, including 25,073 children and 8,904 seniors. Thank you to everyone who donated. Area food pantries are constantly in need of food, please visit https://catholiccharitiesdov.org/donate or https://stjoepantry.com/ to help.

Alumni priest visits Naples high school

Father Garrett Braun, a 2010 graduate of St. John Neumann Catholic High School in Naples, visited his alma mater on May 11, 2026. Father Braun, an Air Force Priest/Chaplain, is stationed at Aviano Air Force base in Italy. He spent time with the St. John Neumann theology classes and honors peer ministry. The students had great questions and Father Braun left them with great advice: “Continue to build your prayer life – your relationship with God.”

High school seniors continue sunset tradition

Graduating seniors at Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers took part in the annual Senior Sunset on May 6, 2026. Between laughter, signed shirts, long hugs, and conversations that lasted a little longer than usual, the reality started to sink in for the Class of 2026: high school is coming to a close. For the first time, the evening also began with a rosary alongside parents and families – a meaningful way to begin a night centered around friendship, gratitude, and the memories these students have built together over the last four years. A beautiful reminder to pause, take it all in, and appreciate the moment before the next chapter begins.

In person/virtual Adult Education Workshop

Community Pregnancy Clinics will offer its monthly adult education workshop at 6:30 p.m., May 20, 2026, at the Naples Clinic, 661 Goodlette-Frank Road, as well as virtually. The May speaker is Becky Moultrie, the Executive Director of St. Gianna Center for Women’s Health & Fertility Care, who will virtually present, “The Truth Within: Appreciating the Gift of Your Fertility.” Join CPCI in person for a watch party or virtually to learn more about: God’s intricate design for the human body and your fertility; the truth about artificial hormones, contraception, and restorative reproductive medicine; and life affirming practical resources for adolescents, singles, married couples, postpartum women, and those navigating the challenges of infertility. )The webinar format does not show faces on the screen but will allow you to type in any questions for a post presentation Q & A/Discussion.) All are welcome! Please invite your friends and neighbors! RSVP is required on/before May 19 at https://form.typeform.com/to/gpRkfI4u.

Theology on Tap May 21 in University Park

Calling all young adults! Join Catholic young people from across the Diocese for an evening of fellowship, faith and fun! Theology on Tap meets on the third Thursday of every month and is an opportunity for young adults in their 20’s and 30’s to explore faith topics in a relaxed social setting. The next gathering of Theology on Tap is 7 – 9 p.m., May 21, 2026, at Oak & Stone, 5405 University Parkway, University Park. The featured speaker is Father Thomas Carzon, O.M.V. Pastor of San Pedro Parish in North Port, who will be leading a talk called, “Do whatever He tells you. (John 2:5),” which was advice offered by Blessed Mother during the Wedding at Cana. There is no cost to attend, and no registration required. Bring a friend. For more information, contact Andres Prias at 941-441-1122 or prias@dioceseofvenice.org.

Pentecost Retreat May 23 in Fort Myers

The Church of the Resurrection of Our Lord Parish is hosting a one-day Pentecost Retreat, 9 a.m.-3:25 p.m., May 23, 2026, in the Parish Center, 8121 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers. The retreat, titled “Come Holy Spirit, Come Bless US with the Fire of Your Love,” will include a light breakfast and lunch. The retreat concludes in time for the Pentecost Vigil Mass at 3:30 p.m. There is no charge. Register by contacting Janet Almen at 708-525-4352.

Worldwide Marriage Encounter in Tampa June 5-7

Successful marriages don’t work on automatic pilot, like a garden, they require constant attention: fertilizing, watering, and weeding. Join the Worldwide Marriage Encounter and discover God’s plan for joy, romance and passion in your marriage June 5-7, 2026, at the Franciscan Center in Tampa. This is the closest Worldwide Marriage Encounter to the Diocese of Venice in 2026. Apply today at www.wwme.org or call 813-270-7832.

Rummage Sale in Punta Gorda June 6

Inter-Parish “Life in the Spirit” seminar in Naples June 13

St. William Parish, 750 Seagate Drive, Naples, is hosting an Inter-Parish “Life in the Spirit” seminar, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m., June 13, 2026, in the Blessed Mother Center. The seminar will be facilitated by representatives from St. William, St. Agnes, St. Ann and St. John the Evangelist Parishes. The seminar will include talks, discussion groups, and a prayer service for a greater outpouring of the Holy Spirit in your personal life. There will be music and fellowship and a light lunch is included. RSVP by email and include your name and contact number to Susan Westly at susan@saintwilliam.org. Please include “Life in the Spirit Seminar” in the subject line. For additional details call 239-397-5757.

Day of Reflection Marriage Retreat June 20

A Day of Reflection Marriage Retreat is scheduled for June 20, 2026, at St. John the Evangelist Parish in Naples. The retreat offers a specially prepared volunteer team of married couples, and a priest, who will share their experiences and information, enabling couples to be more aware of the privileges and responsibilities of marriage. Register at https://dioceseofvenice.regfox.com/2026-day-of-reflection-mp-retreat. Please contact Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseofvenice.org, or 941-486-4754.

Diocese of Venice Totus Tuus Missionary Opportunity for Summer 2026

The Diocese of Venice is now accepting applications for college-aged young adults to serve as Totus Tuus Missionaries for the 2026 Parish evangelization and catechesis Summer Program. This role involves traveling in teams to approximately seven parishes throughout the Diocese, leading catechetical sessions for children and youth. Responsibilities include teaching the Catholic Faith using the Totus Tuus curriculum, facilitating activities, including skits and songs, working collaboratively as a team, teaching about the Mass, leading Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, discussion groups for teenagers and Evening Prayer. This is a paid position. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and a High School graduate and must be available for the complete program schedule, May 20 – July 24, 2026. Visit the Diocese of Venice website for more information or to register, or contact Andres Prias, Diocesan Director of Youth & Young Adult Ministry, at prias@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-441-1122.

WARNING – Text/Email SCAM Alert

It has been brought to the attention of the Diocese of Venice that 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. These messages often come from text/emails that look similar to official Diocesan/Parish/school numbers or accounts and often greet the recipient by name and have the priest’s, Bishop’s, or staff member’s name in the “From” line and/or closing signature of the message. The fake message often claims that the priest/Bishop/staff member is in need of gift cards or money to aid a sick child, relative, or parishioner. 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 in place on how parishioners can make donations and participate in the life of the Diocese, Parish, or school. If you receive such a text or email, please immediately contact the Diocesan/Parish/school directly!

Mental Health Counseling Services

Prison Ministry volunteers needed throughout Diocese

Retreat Center seeks volunteers

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice is in need of volunteers. Help provide a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere for those who come to OLPH seeking transformation in Christ. Areas of need include reception, gardening, dishwashing, and serving meals. Contact the office to sign up at 941-486-0233 or visit www.olph-retreat.org/new-volunteer.

Free Rosary Repair Service

Hunger is focus of Pope’s May prayer intention – Diocese is on the frontline to feed those in need

Posted on May 11, 2026May 11, 2026 by Bob Reddy

Catholic Social Teaching tells us that food is a fundamental human right, not a commodity, emphasizing that every person requires access to adequate nutrition to live with dignity.

Pope Leo XIV, with his May 2026 prayer intention as a platform, prays “That everyone might have food. Let us pray that everyone from large producers to small consumers, be committed to avoid wasting food, and to ensure that everyone has access to quality food.”

Pope Leo demands a moral response to hunger to ensure that everyone has access to quality food while also avoiding waste, calling on the faithful to confront the problem of food insecurity with both prayer and concrete action.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane said that since all human life is sacred, access to food is a basic right necessary to life. “Hunger is not someone else’s problem; it is a shared moral responsibility for all to act.”

Within the Diocese of Venice there are more than a dozen food pantries of varying sizes which combine to help hundreds of families each day and tens of thousands each month.

Among the 15 largest food pantries in the Diocese, including those run by Catholic Charities, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and individual Parishes, tens of thousands of people are spared from going hungry each month.

Food pantries were initially established at Parishes and in communities to help families in a crisis. However, because of rapidly rising costs of not just food, but also gasoline, medicines, and other necessities, combined with season layoffs and a tight local job market, pantry staff and volunteers are now seeing people entering their doors who have previously never needed food before.

To maximize donations, nearly all of the larger food pantries in the Diocese have transitioned from the drive-thru model, which created tremendous waste, to a “Choice Pantry.”

A “Choice Pantry” is when someone comes to a pantry needing food and they have a “mini shopping experience” (similar to shopping at a chosen retail grocery store) where they choose the foods their family will eat. Volunteers explain the “points system” – how everything on the shelves has a point value and where each household is assigned points for shopping based on the number of people needing food. There is no cash, only points, for food. Remarkably, most families don’t use all their points as they select only the food their family will eat, meaning food waste is virtually nonexistent.

“The need is growing, and we are doing everything we can to keep up because no one should have to wonder where their next meal will come from,” said Jenny Muñoz, Catholic Charities Desoto County Regional Director. The DeSoto County office in Arcadia hosts a “Choice Pantry” which serves about 2,600 individuals and families each month, up from only 800 a month just six months ago.

Muñoz said the massive increase in demand can be attributed to multiple factors, such as the conversion from a drive-thru to a Choice Pantry distribution, and an expansion of operating hours, including two evenings each week.

“It is really about meeting the needs of the community,” Muñoz said. “Parents, grandparents and neighbors come through our food pantry and shop with dignity for only the items they need and leave with full carts and full hearts. But behind every cart is a growing need. With the generosity of our many benefactors helping to keep our shelves stocked and our doors open, we are providing hope for every family who walks through.”

In the most recent fiscal year, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice Inc. provided food to 95,588 at six locations and is projected to reach 119,500 by the end of the current fiscal year. This is in addition to disaster relief operations after Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton in 2024, which distributed food to 8,100 families in a two week period. Following Hurricane Ian in 2022 Catholic Charities distributed 2,504 tons of supplies, and provided food to 115,747 people, plus an additional 22,492 hot meals, in the first month after the storm. In addition to those impressive numbers, Catholic Charities also provides after school food for 75 children each week, a number that jumps to 150 each week for children participating in summer camps.

Sadly, most of the increase in demand at Catholic Charities and other pantries is from fixed-income senior citizens, said Catholic Charities CEO Christopher M. Root. “The seniors must make hard choices when it comes to expenses. Catholic Charities is there to provide the food they need to survive.”

Dan Freidrich, Director of the St. Joseph Food Pantry in Bradenton, noted that 31 percent of the population of Manatee County does not earn enough to sustain their standard of living. “People must make choices everyday between paying for childcare, paying for medicines, rent or groceries. At St. Joseph Food Pantry we believe nobody should go hungry.”

On a smaller scale, the more than 200 families every month who receive food at the St. Michael Parish Choice Pantry in Wauchula rely on donations from regional food banks, as well as other Parishes and individual benefactors, said Pantry Director Sister Maria de Talpa, a Servant Sister of the Lord and the Virgin of Matara.

“We have Knights of Columbus who bring trailers of food, and we have good relationships with other providers,” Sister Maria said. “Sometimes I worry if we will have enough to meet the demand, but it all comes down to Divine Providence.”

One of the newest food pantries in the region is the Twelve Baskets Food Pantry at St. Thomas More Parish in Sarasota. Open every Wednesday, the pantry was opened in 2025 to meet a demand in the community to help people with food insecurity.

Another new food pantry is Table of Plenty at St. Katharine Drexel Parish in Cape Coral. The pantry operates out of the Parish Hall and had only four visitors when it debuted in 2022. Kathy Anderson, who helped found the food pantry, said the pantry “now serves 40 to 60 families on the third Friday of each month. We distributed more than 30,000 pounds of food in 2025.”

The St. Vincent de Paul Sacred Heart Conference in Punta Gorda has Choice Pantry hours three days a week and provides five days of food to 17,437 individuals each year.

Tony Rivera, Vice President of the Sacred Heart Conference said the switch to a Choice Pantry made a huge difference in lowering the waste and helped streamline the food distribution process. “We help our friends and neighbors in a dignified way,” Rivera said. “It is not easy for someone to come asking for food. We understand that.”

The food pantries in the Diocese of Venice receive food from donations, Parish food drives and regional food banks, such as Midwest Food Bank of Florida based in Fort Myers, All Faiths Food Bank in Sarasota, Harry Chapin Food Bank in Fort Myers and Naples, and Feeding Tampa Bay.

If you need food, or would like to support a food pantry in your area, please contact individual food pantries, or Parishes to learn of an affiliated food pantry, as well as to learn details on future food collections or how to volunteer.

Helping Catholic Charities food pantries

You can support each food pantry by donating food directly to each location, or by specifying your financial donation by visiting https://catholiccharitiesdov.org/donate.

Food Pantries within the Diocese of Venice

Arcadia – DeSoto County Catholic Charities – 863-494-1068 – 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., Monday and Wednesday, 4 p.m. – 6 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday, and 9 a.m. – 11a.m. Friday,
Bokeelia – Pine Island Food Pantry – Our Lady of Miraculous Medal Parish – 760-529-7238 – 9 a.m. – 11 a.m., Monday and Thursday,
Bonita Springs – Juan Diego Outreach Center, Catholic Charities – 239-390-2928 – 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Fridays,
Bradenton – St. Joseph Food Pantry – 941-756-3732 – 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Monday – Friday. For details visit https://www.stjoepantry.com/,
Cape Coral – St. Katharine Drexel Food Pantry – 239-283-9501 – 9 a.m. – noon, third Friday of each month,
Clewiston – St. Margaret Parish, Catholic Charities – 239-334-4007, ext. 2103 – 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Friday,
Fort Myers – Elizabeth K. Galeana Food Pantry, Catholic Charities – 239-334-4007, ext. 2103 – 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Thursdays,
Fort Myers – Jesus the Worker Food Pantry – 239-693-5333 – 9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m., Tuesday and Saturday,
Grove City – St. Francis of Assisi Food Pantry – 941-697-4899 – 9:15 a.m. -11:15 a.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday,
Immokalee – Guadalupe Social Services of Catholic Charities 239-657-6242, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Monday – Friday,
Naples – Judy Sullivan Family Resource Center, of Catholic Charities – 239-793-0059 – 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., Wednesday and Thursday,
Naples – St. Vincent de Paul Family Assistance Center – 239-775-2907: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Monday, Wednesday, Friday. For details visit https://www.svdpnaples.org/,
Punta Gorda – St. Vincent de Paul, Sacred Heart Conference – 25200 Airport Road – 941-575-0767: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., Monday, Wednesday, Friday. For details, visit https://www.svdppg.org/,
Sarasota – St. Jude Food Pantry – 941-955-3934 – 3:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Wednesday,
Sarasota – St. Thomas More Food Pantry – 941-923-1691 – 3 p.m. – 6 p.m., Wednesday,
Wauchula – St. Michael Food Pantry – 863-773-4089 – 7 a.m. – 8:45 a.m., Saturday.

St. Joseph the Worker, Patron of the Universal Church recognized in May

Posted on May 11, 2026 by Bob Reddy

To foster deep devotion to St. Joseph among Catholics, on May 1, 1955, Pope Pius XII instituted the Memorial of Saint Joseph the Worker to provide a Christian context for labor, specifically to coincide with International Workers Day. He aimed to highlight the dignity of work, calling St. Joseph “the humble workman of Nazareth” and the “provident guardian of families.”

The Catholic Church has long placed an importance on the dignity of human work. By working, we fulfill the commands found in the Book of Genesis to care for the earth and be productive in our labors.

The Catholic Church teaches that work is a fundamental dimension of human existence, a form of continuing participation in God’s creation, and a means of personal fulfillment. Work possesses dignity because it is performed by the human person, not just to produce goods or profit, and is, therefore, a right.

“Work is more than a way to make a living; it is a form of continuing participation in God’s creation,” said Bishop Frank J. Dewane. “Working can draw us closer to God by helping us to find and fulfill our purpose on this Earth. Work can be sanctified by the idea that every task has been given to us by God and is completed for His greater glory.”

St. Joseph is one of the few saints who is celebrated in the Liturgical Calendar with two Feast Days (St. John the Baptist, birth and martyrdom, St. Peter, Chair of St. Peter and Solemnity, St. Paul, conversion and Solemnity, and St. Benedict, traditional death and translation of relics). In addition to May 1, St. Joseph is celebrated on March 19, when he is honored as Patron Saint of the Church, which he cares for just as he cared chastely for the Son entrusted to him by the Lord, and his wife, Mary.

“St. Joseph is a figure who led by example, while also offering powerful prayer and protection as Patriarch of the Universal Church,” Bishop Dewane said. “As a worker, St. Joseph offers fruitful protection of the workers who learn from his example and entrust themselves to his intercession.”

Pope Leo XIV on the Dignity of Work

Throughout the first year of his pontificate, Pope Leo XIV has returned repeatedly to the topics of labor, economics and the dignity of work. To a group of young professionals on April 18, 2026, the Holy Father said, “Be a living presence in the Church in the places where you work; in international institutions, in diplomacy, in organizations, in the world of work. Be men and women who build bridges, while others raise walls. Be credible in the silence of deeds, rather than visible in your words. Be a sign, not merely a presence.”

During an audience for the Jubilee of the World of Work on Nov. 8, 2025, Pope Leo said, “Work must be a source of hope and life, allowing the expression of individual creativity and capacity for good.” And then on Dec. 22, 2025, to the employees of the Roman Curia, the Holy Father said, “Sometimes we are so caught up in our occupations that we do not think about the Lord or the Church; but the very fact of working with dedication, trying to give our best, and also — for you lay people — with love for your family, for your children, gives glory to the Lord.”

St. Joseph the Worker as Saint

In some images, St. Joseph is seen holding lilies, which symbolize integrity and indicate that he was the earthly spouse of the Blessed Mother, whose purity is represented by a white lily. A group of three lilies can represent the Trinity. It is believed that St. Joseph died before Jesus began his public ministry.

In addition to being the patron of the Universal Church and workers in general, St. Joseph is also the patron saint of several professions including craftsmen, carpenters, accountants, attorneys, bursars, cabinetmakers, cemetery workers, civil engineers, confectioners, educators, furniture makers, wheelwrights, and lawyers.

The Diocese of Venice has several locations named in honor of St. Joseph including the following: St. Joseph Parish and Catholic School in Bradenton; St. Joseph the Worker Parish in Moore Haven; San Jose Mission in Fort Myers and Campo San Jose Retreat Center in Lake Placid.

New men’s choir blessed by Bishop

Posted on May 11, 2026 by Bob Reddy

“Dei Verbum,” the newly formed Men’s Choir at Jesus the Worker Parish in Fort Myers, was blessed by Bishop Frank J. Dewane after making their debut during a Mass for the Sacrament of Confirmation on May 2, 2026.

Before blessing the choir and accompanying musicians, Bishop Dewane praised their skill and expressed his certainty that their music will inspire all who hear them. During the blessing, Bishop Dewane called upon God to instill courage upon the men who have answered a specific call of the Lord in their lives.

Father Benjamin Casimir, Administrator of Jesus the Worker Parish, encouraged the formation of the choir, modeling them after the Haitian Men’s Choir at St. Peter the Apostle Parish in Naples, where Father served prior to his assignment at Jesus the Worker.

It was on Jan. 6 when Father Casimir presented the idea of the men’s choir to the Parish, and quickly enthusiastic singers and musicians offered their talents to the endeavor. Since then, they have been rehearsing for their debut for Bishop Dewane. The name of the choir, “Dei Verbum,” is Latin for “Word of God,” something Father Casmir said best reflects their purpose in “serving the people of God by singing to the Lord.”

Dressed in black suits, with a white dress shirt, red tie and a red rose on their lapels, the coordination of color added to their presence. After the choir was blessed by Bishop Dewane, the members were enthusiastically applauded. Following the conclusion of the Mass, Father Casimir joined the choir while the newly confirmed had family photos taken.

The principal leader of the choir is Jose Osmin Garcia, and during the Confirmation Mass, the director was Maynor Alexander Ramirez Torez.

“Thank you everyone for your unconditional support and constant prayer,” Father Casimir said to the Parish faithful.