bishop frank dewane Archives - Diocese of Venice

Thousands of students return to classroom for 2025-2026 school year

Posted on August 14, 2025August 14, 2025 by Bob Reddy

The opening bells rang, and tears flowed as more than 6,700 children across the Diocese of Venice returned to school for the 2025-26 Academic Year.

From pre-kindergarten to seniors in high school, the students will face rigorous course work which will develop them academically, physically – and most importantly – spiritually.

On the first day, friendships are renewed, new bonds are formed, and new challenges are accepted by students at every level.

At St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School in Port Charlotte, Principal Amy Barron and her team of faculty and staff were ready to go as waves of students arrived on campus Aug. 11, 2025, for the first day of school.

Barron and other staff and student safety monitors were outside for the carline – opening doors and greeting familiar and new faces alike. Many parents sought a last minute “First Day of School” photo, with many parents and children saying, “I love you!” before the children headed off to class. Wearing their school uniform – shirt or sweatshirt with the school logo, and blue shorts for the boys and skirts for the girls – the students were tired, but most were excited to be back. New students were shown where to find their homerooms, while returning students were greeted by name, with hugs and fist-bumps.

St. Charles offers a bus service to Arcadia and nearly 60 students arrived to school that way. Exiting the buses the students obediently lined up to wait for a pause in the carline, when they were guided by a teacher across the parking lot.

Some parents escorted the youngest children to the classroom where there were hugs, with parting comments from the parents including: “Have fun!” “Good luck!” “Miss you already!” and “I love you!” Following a few last photos, the parents departed, though a few lingered to watch through the small window on the door for a last glance. Once the parents were gone, everyone quickly settled into their seats comforted in the knowledge that they now had many new friends.

St. Charles has a courtyard where they student body gathers for a morning prayer service. Principal Barron welcomed everyone back: “Good morning, St. Charles!”

The theme for the first day was “Our future’s so BRIGHT we gotta wear SHADES!” which is based on a popular 1980s song by Timbuk 3. Each student was provided with a pair of sunglasses, which they wore during morning prayer.

“We are going to have a bright and exciting year. I know I can’t wait and I hope you can’t either,” Barron said.

Father John Fitch, Pastor of St. Charles Borromeo Parish welcomed the students, saying that he prayed that the year ahead would be “filled with truth, beauty, and goodness.”

These scenes were repeated at each of the 15 Diocesan Catholic schools. The high schools had less tears and more fun as those students settled into their year. At each Diocesan Catholic high school – Bishop Verot in Fort Myers, Cardinal Mooney in Sarasota, St. John Neumann in Naples and Donahue Academy of Ave Maria Catholic School in Ave Maria – there were special “Senior Sunrise” welcomes for the graduating class of 2026. These gatherings take place on the respective football fields and are traditions at each of the schools, and include breakfast, a class photo and some fun for everyone – and yes, it is at sunrise!.

At Incarnation Catholic School in Sarasota, the first day included a Mass and orientation, with classes beginning on Aug. 12. The Knights of Columbus Incarnation Council 15322 offered a Back to School BBQ.

Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School in Venice, St. Joseph Catholic School in Bradenton and St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School in Naples start the year with new principals.

Of note, this year, St. Martha Catholic School in Sarasota marks its 75th year, while St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral is celebrating 35 years.

Each school was completely open by Aug. 13, with some staggering their starts over two days.

All 15 Diocesan Catholic schools are at or near capacity with extensive waiting pools at several schools. Final enrollment numbers are expected to exceed 6,700, an increase of 40 percent in the past five years. In fact, Diocese of Venice Catholic schools are the fastest growing Catholic school system in the country.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane said each Diocesan Catholic school works conscientiously “to provide Christ-centered learning experiences that are translatable to the real world, providing children with the tools they need to be successful beyond the classroom. In the Diocese of Venice, we do that well.”

Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocesan Superintendent of Catholic Education, said there is a stress to continue to develop a strong “Catholic School Culture.”

“This culture is the vision, values, systems, language, expectations, behaviors, and beliefs that increase a school’s and Diocese’s chances of accomplishing the strategy of fulfilling its mission: to introduce the world to its Savior,” Father Belmonte said.

For more information about Diocesan Catholic Schools, please visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/offices/offices-departments/catholicschools/.

Assumption: dedicated to Mary Most Holy – Holy day of obligation on Aug. 15

Posted on August 14, 2025 by Bob Reddy

“At the conclusion of Her earthly life, the Mother of Christ was raised in soul and body to Heaven, that is, in the glory of eternal life, in the full communion with God,” said Pope Francis when describing why on Aug. 15 the Church celebrates one of the most important feasts dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary: the Solemnity of Her Assumption.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church describes the Assumption as follows: “The Most Blessed Virgin Mary, when the course of her earthly life was completed, was taken up body and soul into the glory of heaven, where she already shares in the glory of her Son’s Resurrection, anticipating the resurrection of all members of his Body” (CCC 974).

Bishop Frank J. Dewane stated, “Since death and the corruption of the human body is a consequence of sin, it would not be right that the Virgin Mary – who is free from sin – should be affected by this natural law. It is a privilege granted to Mary, as the Mother of Jesus.”

The Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is a Holy Day of Obligation. According to Church doctrine, Holy Days of Obligation are feast days on which Catholics are required to attend Mass and to avoid (to the extent that they are able) servile work.

In celebration of this important Solemnity, Parishes throughout the Diocese of Venice offer additional Masses to allow the faithful to participate in this Holy Day of Obligation. In addition, Diocesan Catholic Schools also celebrate school-wide Masses.

Pope Francis said that “Mary’s Assumption is a great mystery that concerns each one of us; it concerns our future. Mary precedes us on the way in which all those go, through baptism, have bound their life to Jesus, as Mary bound her life to Him. (This) Feast pre-announces the ‘new heavens and the new earth,’ with the risen Christ’s victory over death and the definitive defeat of the Evil One.”

Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to celebrate the Mass of the Solemnity at the Pontifical Parish of St. Thomas of Villanova at Castel Gandolfo. This is a return to the Papal tradition of hosting a public celebration of Mass of the Solemnity. Pope Francis only did so in 2013 at Castel Gandolfo, and in 2014 during an apostolic journey to South Korea. Pope Benedict XVI celebrated the Solemnity every Aug. 15 at Castel Gandolfo.

This Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is the oldest celebration of Our Lady. The original celebration, known as the “Memory of Mary” or “Falling Asleep of Mary” initially centered on the end of her earthly existence, and is commonly known as her “dormition.”

Soon the name was changed to the “Assumption of Mary,” since there was much more to the feast than the end of her earthly life. The belief that Mary had been taken up, body and soul, into heaven dates back to the Apostles themselves.

Clear from the beginning was that there were no relics of Mary to be venerated, and that an empty tomb stood on the edge of Jerusalem near the site of the end of her earthly existence or dormition. That location also soon became a place of pilgrimage. (Today, the Benedictine Abbey of the Dormition of Mary stands on the spot.)

In 1950, Pope Pius XII proclaimed the Assumption of Mary a dogma of the Catholic Church, therefore, an ancient belief became Catholic Doctrine and the Assumption was declared a truth revealed by God.

The declaration of the dogma was to “make our belief in our own resurrection stronger and render it more effective,” Pope Pius XII stated in a proclamation.

The proclamation went on to say that the definition of the Assumption “will contribute in no small way to the advantage of human society, since it (reflects and builds up) the glory of the Most Blessed Trinity, to which the Blessed Mother of God is bound by such singular bonds.”

It was also expected that the faithful would be called to a stronger piety toward their heavenly Mother and that those who meditate upon the glorious example Mary offers, be more convinced of the value of a human life entirely devoted to carrying out the heavenly Father’s will and to bringing good to others.

All the feast days of Mary mark the great mysteries of her life and her part in the work of redemption. The central mystery of her life and person is her divine motherhood, celebrated both at Christmas and a week later (Jan. 1) on the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God. The Immaculate Conception (Dec. 8) marks the preparation for that motherhood, so that she had the fullness of grace from the first moment of her existence, completely untouched by sin. The Assumption completes God’s work in her since it was not fitting that the flesh that had given life to God himself should ever undergo corruption.

Prayer for the Feast of the Assumption

Almighty God,

You gave a humble Virgin the privilege of being mother of your Son,

and crowned her with the glory of heaven.

May the prayers of the Virgin Mary bring us to the salvation of Christ

and raise us up to eternal life.

We ask this though our Lord Jesus Christ your Son

who lives and reigns with you in the Holy Spirit,

one God, forever and ever,

Amen.

Volunteers serve vital function – critical need throughout Diocese

Posted on August 14, 2025August 14, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Community service is one of the most practical ways to share your Catholic faith with others. Each day numerous men and women volunteer their time and talent to various organizations within the Diocese of Venice, including Parishes, Catholic schools, Catholic Charities, retreat centers, and more.

Whether serving a meal at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice, helping to do paperwork at the Catholic Charities office in Sarasota, ministering to those who are incarcerated in one of the many jails and prisons, or being a Sidewalk Advocate encouraging women to choose the life of their child over abortion, each volunteer makes a difference.

“The Corporal Works of Mercy are found in the teachings of Jesus and give us a model for how we should treat others, as if they were Christ in disguise,” said Bishop Frank J. Dewane. “The Catholic Church has long relied on dedicated volunteers to do its good works. When you volunteer, your actions respond to the basic needs of humanity as we journey together through this life.”

The seven Corporal Works of Mercy are: feeding the hungry, giving drink to the thirsty, clothing the naked, sheltering the homeless, visiting the sick, visiting the imprisoned, and burying the dead.

“By embodying love, charity, and compassion in your deeds, you inspire those around you to explore their own faith and consider the role of God in their lives,” Bishop Dewane said. “Making service a part of your life is a valuable way to answer God’s call to show love, foster unity, and share His grace with others.”

Pope Francis, in an address from his hospital bed to the participants at Jubilee of Volunteers in Rome on March 10, 2025, said “in the deserts of poverty and loneliness, little gestures of freely given service make the shoots of a new humanity flourish… Volunteers bear witness to the primacy of gratuitousness, solidarity and service to those most in need… In our societies, excessively enslaved to market logic, where everything risks being subject to the criterion of interest and the quest for profit, volunteering is prophecy and a sign of hope.”

Pope Leo XIV recently spoke about doing good for others: “May our return to the roots of our faith make all of us experience the gift of God’s consolation and make us capable, like the Good Samaritan, of pouring out the oil of consolation and the wine of gladness on today’s humanity.”

The following are areas of need within the Diocese of Venice where volunteers are urgently needed:

Catholic Charities Sarasota Office

Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice, Inc., welcomes volunteers who wish to become involved with any of their programs, services or ministries. The most urgent need for volunteers is at the Sarasota office, 5055 N. Tamiami Trail, which offers disaster response, housing and support services, anti-human trafficking, immigration assistance, and much more. The mission of Catholic Charities is to eliminate food insecurity, homelessness and offer essential mental health services to everyone seeking assistance – regardless of race or religion. To sign up as a volunteer, please visit https://catholiccharitiesdov.org/volunteer, or for more information, please call 941-355-4680 ext. 1100.

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center

Many hands make light work. Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice provides a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere for those who come seeking transformation in Christ. Aid OLPH in continuing its service to the faith community. Areas of need include gardening, dishwashing, dining room, answering the phones and more. For more information, or to sign-up, please call 941-486-0233, or email info@olph-retreat.org.

Sidewalk Advocate

Sidewalk Advocates for Life needs sidewalk advocates and prayer partners at the Fort Myers location, 6418 Commerce Park Drive. Advocates are a gentle, prayerful presence at Planned Parenthood, offering abortion-minded women loving, life-affirming options. Excellent virtual training for volunteers is immediately available, and volunteers are able to sign up for shifts convenient for their schedule. For more information, contact Sidewalk Advocates for Life co-leaders, Bob Reynolds 267-733-2737, rgrcons1@gmail.com, or Cyrille Velasco 917-991-6147, cyrillevelasco@gmail.com.

Prison Outreach

The men and women volunteers who enter the jails and prisons scattered throughout the Diocese of Venice serve a crucial role to a segment of society that is too commonly dismissed and forgotten. Join the team of Diocesan volunteers who enter county jails and state prisons within the 10-county Diocese of Venice to do pastoral outreach in 10 county jails, five state prisons and one civil commitment facility. The outreach provides a variety of services, including Bible study, religious education and assistance with receiving the sacraments such as Baptism, First Holy Communion and Confirmation.

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.

These are just a few examples of volunteer opportunities within the Diocese of Venice. Please contact your local Parish, Catholic school or other Catholic organization to learn where you can put your skills to work for the betterment of our brothers and sisters in Christ. Thank you!

2025-2026 Catholic school year begins Aug. 11

Posted on August 8, 2025 by Bob Reddy

The excitement is building as the faculty and staff at the 15 Diocese of Venice Catholic schools prepare lesson plans and decorate classrooms for the more than 6,700 students who will be arriving for the start of the 2025-2026 Academic Year on Aug. 11, 2025.

Ahead of opening day, more than 650 educators and faculty of the Diocese of Venice gathered for a Back to School Mass and meeting on Aug. 6, 2025, at Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated the Mass at neighboring St. Cecilia Parish, where he identified the teachers and faculty as the first representatives of the Diocese of Venice as men and women of God who impart their knowledge to the child of God placed before them.

“Whatever the situation, you are advocates of a Catholic school culture, which sets us apart; we avoid negativity, we strive to be positive, and you are called upon to be positive in your approach,” Bishop Dewane said. “Let that positivity of who you are as teachers in a Catholic school, as messengers of the Lord in so many ways, be a critical component of your classroom. Let the students be a part of the positivity of what you do.”

Bishop Dewane thanked the educators for being there and answering the Lord’s call, and prayed that the Lord guides the Diocese, the Department of Education, each school, and each educator through the year and that the burdens that do appear be lifted from each of them.

Bishop Dewane also spoke about a renewed emphasis on Diocesan Catholic Curriculum Standards, which were first implemented in 2018 and are being updated for the new school year.

“Religion and faith should permeate everything we do,” the Bishop said. “We must integrate faith across the disciplines so our students know it and live it. As a teacher, you are here to form your students to be men and women of God, living out your own vocation as a teacher.”

Educators at all 15 Diocesan Catholic schools work conscientiously to provide Christ-centered learning experiences that are translatable to the real world, providing children with the tools they need to be successful beyond the classroom.

Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocesan Superintendent of Catholic Education, spoke to the educators about the mission of the Universal Church, that is in every generation to introduce the world to its Savior.

“That world is your classroom, your school, and this Diocese,” Father Belmonte said. “You do that in Southwest Florida, because the mission happens in a particular place and time.”

Father Belmonte said the Diocese of Venice is blessed to have seen a 40 percent growth in the past five years, the fastest rate of any Catholic school system in the country. Enrollment is expected to exceed 6,700 this year, the most in Diocesan history.

“We are in the business of educating and forming souls for Christ – so more souls is better,” Father Belmonte said. “What we do helps makes us, our students, and our world to be better. We should believe that down to our bones.”

Jennifer Falestiny, Director of Curriculum, introduced the educators to online portals and programs that will aid them in in embracing the new curriculum standards.

Falestiny also introduced the group to the Hallow app, an online program that offers a variety of useful educational resources on a variety of relevant topics. One of those topics is related to a devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, which will be the theme for the 2025-2026 Academic Year School Devotional Project which will kick off in November.

New Teachers Come On Board

On July 31, Father Belmonte led a New Teacher Orientation at St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers. Father Belmonte stressed the need for the new employees to be “Catholic School Culture” advocates in whatever role they may have in their school. A “Catholic School Culture” is the vision, values, systems, language, expectations, behaviors, and beliefs that increase a school’s and Diocese’s chances of accomplishing the strategy of fulfilling its mission: to introduce the world to its Savior.

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

All 15 Diocesan Catholic schools will open the week of Aug. 11. For more information, please visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/offices/offices-departments/education/.

Bishop asks for prayers to end Florida executions

Posted on August 8, 2025August 8, 2025 by Bob Reddy

The pace of executions in Florida is alarming. With the execution of Edward Zakrzewski on July 31, 2025, the ninth to take place this year, Florida has broken its own record for the number of executions carried out in a single year. The state is not stopping there. Governor Ron DeSantis has already signed two additional death warrants; Kayle Bates is scheduled to be executed on August 19, and Curtis Windom on August 28, thereby setting new records for most executions in a single year in Florida.

The death penalty is a harmful and unnecessary form of punishment. State-sanctioned killing further distorts society’s understanding of the sacredness of all human life, diminishing the recognition of our own inherent dignity and that of others. St. John Paul II expressed strong opposition to the death penalty, advocating for its abolition and emphasizing the inherent dignity of every human life, even in face of serious crime. He acknowledged the traditional teaching allowing capital punishment in cases of absolute necessity, but argued that advances in penal systems made such cases “very rare, if not practically nonexistent.” St. John Paul II also called for a “consensus to end the death penalty” and emphasized the possibility of redemption and rehabilitation for offenders.

As Catholics, we are called to mercy and compassion, not violence and vengeance. With mercy towards the offenders, who themselves have often been victimized in life, and compassion for the victims of violence and their families, whose grief is not eliminated by the taking of another life, justice can be better served.

Please join Bishop Frank J. Dewane and all the Bishops of Florida to pray a novena for an end to the use of Florida’s death penalty. The novena began earlier this week, Aug. 6, and continues through Aug. 14, concluding on the Memorial of St. Maximilian Kolbe, who was executed in an Auschwitz prison camp in 1941. Watch for videos of the Bishops and pray along with them on social media at www.facebook.com/flaccb.

The Florida Bishops will continue to ask the governor to stop signing death warrants. However, prayer is powerful and is needed!

Prayer to End the Use of the Death Penalty

Merciful Father, we ask your blessing on all we do to build a culture of life. Hear our prayers for those impacted by the death penalty.

We pray for all people, that their lives and dignity as children of a loving God may be respected and protected in all stages and circumstances.

We pray for victims of violence and their families, that they may experience our love and support and find comfort in your compassion and in the promise of eternal life.

We pray for those on death row, that their lives may be spared, that the innocent may be freed and that the guilty may come to acknowledge their faults and seek reconciliation with you.

We pray for the families of those who are facing execution, that they may be comforted by your love and compassion.

We pray for civic leaders, that they may commit themselves to respecting every human life and ending the use of the death penalty in our land.

Compassionate Father, give us wisdom and hearts filled with your love. Guide us as we work to end the use of the death penalty and to build a society that truly chooses life in all situations.

We ask this Father through your Son Jesus Christ who lives and reigns with the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever.

Amen

Deacons gather for fellowship

Posted on August 8, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Permanent Deacons from the Diocese of Venice participated in a gathering aimed at boosting fellowship on Aug. 2, 2025, at San Antonio Parish in Port Charlotte.

Themed “I Wish I Had Known Then What I Know Now,” more than 40 Deacons and their wives participated in the gathering. The Deacons took part in the Mass, and afterwards there was a praying of the liturgy of the Hours for the men and their wives.

Following dinner, Deacon Craig Dutka, Holy Cross Parish in Palmetto, opened the meeting by explaining how he was among the Deacons assigned to increase the fellowship and connection among the Deacons of the Diocese.

Deacon Dutka explained how when he was ordained in 2023, he was relatively new to the Diocese of Venice and knew few people, let alone other Deacons. He is the only Deacon assigned to Holy Cross. He took his own initiative to reach out to other Deacons. Since then, he has developed a wide range of connections which, he says, has helped him to become a better Deacon, husband and man.

Deacon Dutka said the 90 Permanent Deacons in the Diocese of Venice, and several dozen others who are retired or inactive, have experiences that should be valued and shared among all Deacons. The gathering at San Antonio was the first step in making that possible.

“We each come from different backgrounds and Parishes and have many lessons we have learned that could benefit other Deacons in wonderful ways,” Deacon Dutka said.

Deacon J. Robert Gaitens, Diocesan Director of Diaconate Formation from St. Martha Parish in Sarasota, echoed Deacon Dutka’s sentiments and spoke about the importance of the Deacons learning from each other.

Using the example of the 11 newly ordained Deacons, Deacon Gaitens illustrated the gifts that each brought to the ministry in the Diocese. The group, the largest class in Diocesan history, was ordained by Bishop Frank J. Dewane on May 31, 2025.

“It was a such an enriching experience learning from each of them in how they grew in their faith. That is something the rest of the Deacons can benefit from. You can learn from them, while they can learn from you. It is a beautiful opportunity to share the journey you are taking in this special ministry.”

Deacon David Reardon, Diocesan Director of Diaconate Personnel from Resurrection of Our Lord Parish in Fort Myers, said his prayer was to strengthen the Permanent Diaconate program in the Diocese by ensuring no Deacon is alone or forgotten.

Mary Reardon, wife of Deacon David Reardon, also encouraged the wives and families to create a stronger connection with each other emphasizing the sharing of life experiences in the family, the Diaconate, in the Parish, and in the Diocese, are invaluable to all.

Deacon Reardon said all future Deacon gatherings will serve not just as educational meetings, but have a strong fellowship component, with opportunities to build up the spiritual strength of the Permanent Deacons of the Diocese of Venice.

News Briefs for the week of August 8, 2025

Posted on August 8, 2025August 8, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Appointments

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

Father James Cogan, as Parochial Vicar of St. Joseph Parish in Bradenton, effective August 4, 2025, and thus is relieved of his duties as Parochial Vicar of Incarnation Parish in Sarasota.

Father James Simko, on personal leave effective August 4, 2025, and thus is relieved of his duties as Parochial Vicar of St. Joseph Parish in Bradenton.

Father Ananda Anki Reddy, is relieved of his duties as Parochial Vicar of St. Andrew Parish in Cape Coral, effective August 20, 2025, and thus, will return to his home Diocese of Cuddapah, India.

School receives honor

St. Joseph Catholic School in Bradenton has been recognized as a Silver Award winner in Bradenton’s Best Private School category for the second year in a row, by Bradenton Best, a special magazine supplement of the Bradenton Herald. The winners were chosen by votes from readers. St. Joseph Catholic School is rooted in faith, and is committed to academic excellence and leadership since 1954.

Assumption – Holy Day of Obligation

The Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Friday, August 15, 2025, is a Holy Day of Obligation. On this day the Church acknowledges and celebrates the fact that Mary, the Mother of God, was assumed into Heaven at the end of her earthly life. “The Most Blessed Virgin Mary, when the course of her earthly life was completed, was taken up body and soul into the glory of heaven, where she already shares in the glory of her Son’s Resurrection, anticipating the resurrection of all members of his Body” (CCC 974). According to Church doctrine, Holy Days of Obligation are feast days on which Catholics are required to attend Mass and to avoid (to the extent that they are able) servile work.

Summertime and the Giving is Easy Appeal continues

Every day, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., serves the most vulnerable population in Diocese of Venice’s 10 counties by feeding, housing, empowering, and helping all in need. This summer, you can be the one that makes a difference. Your acts of kindness have the power to transform lives. The giving is easy! To donate to “Summertime and the Giving is Easy Campaign,” please visit https://catholiccharitiesdov.org/summertime or mail a check to Catholic Charities, “Summertime and the Giving is Easy,” 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34285. If you have any questions, please call 941-488-5581.

Marilyn Brummer Fund grant applications open

The Catholic Community Foundation of Southwest Florida is pleased to announce that grant applications are now being accepted for the Marilyn Brummer Fund. Brummer was a devout Catholic and an active parishioner at St. John XXIII Catholic Church in Fort Myers. She was incredibly generous with her time, her talent, and her treasure in order to make a difference in the lives of others, especially students and the most vulnerable among us. As a part of her Catholic Legacy, and through a generous gift from her estate, Marilyn created a fund with the Catholic Community Foundation to continue supporting causes which she cared about most, long after she is gone. This year, the CCF will be awarding a total of $108,000 in grants to programs, projects, or entities that are located in, and associated with, the Diocese of Venice in Florida. The program, project or entity must be involved in one of the following areas: Anti-human trafficking assistance; Programs that assist single mothers; and Children’s Center of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc. in Fort Myers. Grant applications must be submitted online and can be found on the Catholic Community Foundation website ccfdioceseofvenice.org, under “Community Grants.” All applications are due by Aug. 31, 2025. For any questions, please contact the Foundation at CCF@dioceseofvenice.or or call 941-441-1124

Natural Family Planning introductory sessions available

Learn about Natural Family Planning with a free introductory session. The Diocese of Venice sets forth the Creighton Model Fertility Care System, and free online training sessions are being offered by the St. Gianna Center for Women’s Health & Fertility Care on Sept. 20, and Oct. 21, 2025. Choose the session that fits your schedule! The online sessions are free, but registration is required. Register at bit.ly/SGIntroSession. For more information, visit www.stgiannacenter.com, or direct questions to Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseovenice.org, or 941-486-4754.

Day of Reflection for Sacramental Marriage in September and November

Couples preparing for Sacramental Marriage in the Catholic Church are encouraged to attend a Day of Reflection either Sept. 20, 2025, at St. John the Evangelist Parish, Pulte Hall, 625 111th Ave. N., Naples, or Nov. 8 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice. Taking place from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. a specially prepared volunteer team of married couples share their experiences and information, enabling couples to be more aware of the privileges and responsibilities of marriage. A priest will share information about the vocation of marriage and its spiritual component. The $60 registration fee includes all retreat materials and lunch. Registration is required. Contact James Gontis for more information at gontis@dioceseofvenice or 941-484-9543, ext. 4754.

Jubilee Monthly Days of Prayer Resume in September

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice, resumes the Monthly Day of Prayer in September. This is an opportunity to take time out of your busy and hectic life to focus on God. The day begins at 9:30 a.m. with Continental breakfast and includes two conferences by an OLPH priest, 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.

40 Days for Life Fall Campaign

Join the 40 Days for Life 2025 campaign this fall from Sept. 24 to Nov. 2, 2025. This campaign, scheduled for locations in Sarasota, Fort Myers and Naples, aims to end abortion through prayer and fasting, community outreach, and peaceful vigil in front of abortion facilities. Participants support the mission by spreading awareness and praying. The Sarasota campaign is hosting a special kickoff at 10:30 a.m., Sept. 26, 2025, in the parking lot of Community Pregnancy Clinics Inc., 1419 7^th St., Sarasota. The clinic sits in the shadow of the regional headquarters of Planned Parenthood, the largest abortionist in the country. For more information, please email Tavia Ames at ames@dioceseofvenice.org or call 941-441-1101.

Great Resource for Catholic Women

Pope St. John Paul II coined the term “the feminine genius.” Explore and expand your feminine genius and grow in faith in a new online community, designed specifically for Catholic women! The Women’s Formation Community is a place where Catholic women come together to reflect on their unique charisms and vocation and receive ongoing intellectual formation among a vibrant community of like-minded women. Try it for free! Word on Fire offers a 30-day free trial. To learn more, or to join, visit the Word on Fire Institute online.

Diocesan Rosary Congress returns in October

The Diocese of Venice will host its annual Rosary Congress Oct. 4-10, 2025, with a growing number of Parishes throughout the Diocese participating. The theme of this year’s Rosary Congress is My Soul Magnifies the Lord (Luke 1:46). The Rosary Congress begins with the celebration of daily Mass and ends with Mass at the same time the following day. During these designated 24 hours, the Blessed Sacrament is exposed for perpetual Adoration, and the five decades of the Rosary are prayed by the faithful every hour, on the hour. Many Parishes will also have Confession available. Stay tuned for a list of participating Parishes, and how you can be part of this beautiful opportunity to adore and grow closer to our Lord. For more information, contact Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseofvenice.org, or 941-486-4754.

Retreat for young women
Single women ages 18-30 who are seeking God’s will in their life are invited to grow deeper in prayer and in their identity as a woman, as well as learn more about discerning religious life during a Fiat Ministries Retreat the weekend of Oct. 10-12, 2025, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice. This retreat is led by Team Fiat, a dynamic group of lay women passionate about supporting other young women. Additionally, consecrated religious sisters from various religious communities from the Council of Major Superiors of Women Religious (CMSWR) assist at each retreat, making each one a unique experience. The goal is for the retreatants to walk away with a greater desire to grow in relationship with Jesus Christ while meeting religious sisters. The cost is $50. Registration can be found at https://fiatministries.org/retreats/. For questions, please email Emily at fiatministriesinc@gmail.com.

Be A Hero, Save A Life!

OLPH is blessed to be designated a Jubilee Year of Hope Pilgrimage site

You are welcome to visit Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, throughout the year. The grounds provide a peaceful place to reconnect with the Lord. Take some time at any of the many resting spots throughout the retreat center to bask in the solitude and offer up your intentions; don’t forget to pray for the intentions of Pope Leo XIV. Join any daily Mass! For details, please visit www.olph-retreat.org/jubilee-of-hope-2025.

Volunteers needed for Venice Retreat Center

Many hands make light work. Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice is seeking volunteers. Aid the Diocesan retreat center in providing a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere for those who come seeking transformation in Christ. Areas of need include: gardening, dishwashing, dining room, answering the phones and more. For more information, or to sign-up, please call 941-486-0233, or email info@olph-retreat.org.

Volunteers needed for Prison Outreach

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.

Support After Abortion help available

Are you or someone you know struggling because of a past abortion? You are not alone. Healing retreats and support are available for anyone who has experienced an abortion, including mothers, fathers and other family members who have been hurt. For help, or to learn more about the Diocese of Venice support after abortion program, Project Rachel, simply call or text 941-412-5860, or email project.rachel@dioceseofvenice.org, in English or Spanish. All contacts are confidential.

19 seminarians gather for annual convocation

Posted on July 31, 2025July 31, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Group encouraged to keep Christ at center of life

An abundance of spirit and fraternity was on display during a recent Convocation of 19 Diocese of Venice seminarians, July 28-30, 2025, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice.

This annual Convocation brings together the men who are at various stages of discerning a vocation to the priesthood. Some are soon to start their college studies at a seminary, while others are further along in their journey with a potential for Ordination to the Priesthood not too far into the future.

During the retreat, the men spent time praying, reflecting on their choice of vocation, while also sharing their thoughts and their personal journey with others who are on the same path. Not all serious, there was also some time for fun and games.

There are currently a total of 19 men discerning a call to the priesthood as a Diocese of Venice seminarian, a large number considering the size of the Diocese. Bishop Frank J. Dewane said the Diocese is blessed to have such a large group of seminarians and thanked the men for answering the call to discern a vocation to the priesthood.

Bishop Dewane celebrated a Mass for the seminarians on July 30. During the Mass, the Bishop encouraged the men to continually check themselves to ensure that Jesus Christ is always the priority in their lives.

“The life of seminarians is about perseverance, as well as enthusiasm and energy,” Bishop Dewane said. “The Parishes that have seminarians (on pastoral assignments), become contagious with the idea that there is a future in the Church. They see the freshness, newness and tomorrow of what you represent – courage and hope. It is up to each of you – whether as a seminarian and or when you become priests – to fuel the flame of hope.”

It is their response to the call of the Lord that is being recognized, the Bishop continued. In these difficult times, their presence, their “Yes!” to the Lord, encourages the faithful who are afraid, hesitant or faltering in their own response to the Lord.

As seminarians, these men have answered Jesus’ call to “Follow Me!” and Bishop Dewane praised the men, saying “Thank you for courageously stepping forward. You must live up to that response. You are on a pilgrimage, a witness to hope – hope in the Lord. Giving that witness is a maturing aspect of who you are as seminarians as you turn yourselves over to God.”

Bishop Dewane noted that the men are always in his prayers and that his prayer is that they “become gentle and strong heralds of the Lord. You are following in the footsteps of Jesus, responding in that same compassionate way.”

The multi-day retreat occurs late in the summer as a time of prayer and reflection before each return to their respective seminary. Father Alex Pince, Diocesan Vocations Director, used the time to check in with each man and offer them advice and support as each takes his first or next step in their spiritual and vocational journey. The retreat was led by Father Nicholas Vetter, of the Diocese of Bismark, and his theme was “Jesus is Real.”

With the group assigned to three different seminaries – Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary in Weston, Massachusetts; St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary in Boynton Beach; and St. John Vianney College Seminary in Miami – and with several beginning their vocation journey, the gathering is an opportunity for those early in their formation process to hear from those who are further along. This mentoring helps in building a camaraderie amongst the group, aiding each to appreciate that the discernment process is not only accomplished in the classroom but through the entire experience in the seminary, during Parish pastoral assignments, and in their personal life.

Seminarian Alexander Baugh, who attends Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary, said the convocation was a great chance to see other seminarians he doesn’t know as well, and to meet the new men. The fraternity of the retreat meant the most to him. “It is great just to hang out with the other guys and get to know them. We are each on a similar path but how we got here is so fascinating.”

A recent highlight for the seminarians was witnessing the July 12 Ordination to the Priesthood of Fathers Joseph Doherty, Jacob Gwynn and Patrick Long, with many of the men present to help serve the Mass. This allowed the men to see their fellow seminarians reach a goal they are working to attain in the future.

Diocese of Venice Seminarians are supported through the Diocese Catholic Faith Appeal, Vocations/Seminary Support Collection, the Knights of Columbus, the Venice Diocesan Council of Catholic Women, and the generosity of the faithful.

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

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

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

Alexander Baugh, Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary

Nathaniel Byers, St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary

Cameron Connor, St. John Vianney College Seminary

Andres Cordero, St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary

Lazaro Esquivel, St. John Vianney College Seminary

James Gargano, St. John Vianney College Seminary

Terry Gastauer, Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary

Jesse Gomez, St. John Vianney College Seminary

Sebastian Harding, St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary

Tobias Lopez, St. John Vianney College Seminary

Patrick Mulhall, St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary

Bao Nguyen, Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary

Michael Piedimonte, St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary

Doroteo Rodriguez, St. John Vianney College Seminary

Timothy Simmons, St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary

Carson Stecklein, St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary

Tam Tran, St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary

Alain Valdavia, St. John Vianney College Seminary

Lam Vo, St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary

Totus Tuus program benefits more than 1,650 youth

Posted on July 31, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Young participants spend summer growing closer to Christ

Hearts are on fire for Jesus Christ for the 1,650 young faithful who took part in the Totus Tuus weekly sessions at 17 host Parishes in the Diocese of Venice throughout the summer.

The goal of the Totus Tuus program is to help young people develop in their understanding of the faith and strengthen their relationship with Jesus Christ. Just as important, the program teaches the boys and girls that faith is fun! Totus Tuus – which means “totally yours,” was a motto of St. John Paul II, taken from St. Louis de Montfort’s “True Devotion to Mary.” It signifies our desire to give ourselves entirely to Jesus Christ through Mary.

On July 24, 2025, young participants in the program at Our Lady of the Angels Parish joyously participated in the opening prayers and songs. They expressed their enthusiasm about how much fun they were having and how the Totus Tuus missionaries served as an inspiration for them. Here is just a small sample of what the young people had to say: “Jesus loves me!” “Mary is our Queen in Heaven!” “This is the best!” “Each day is better and better!” “Awesome!”

Fourteen Totus Tuus missionaries, trained young men and women, mostly college-age, led the program, and were just as enthusiastic as the young campers as the summer drew to a close. Each was moved by the experience of imparting faith on eager young minds.

Missionary Jesina Cortez, who is from St. James Parish and Santigo Mission in Lake Placid, returned for her second time as a missionary because of how much she got out of it in 2024. This year, she said the experience was just as rewarding with the best part making personal connections to the youngest of students. “To witness their wonder and love for Christ develop through the week was inspiring. It was hard to say good-bye to each group.”

“Once again, throughout the summer the Diocese was blessed to have the Totus Tuus missionaries who brought an excitement about the faith to different Parishes each week, helping to awaken in children of all ages a desire and enthusiasm for holiness,” said Bishop Frank J. Dewane.

Run by the Diocesan Office of Youth and Young Adults, Totus Tuus seeks to foster openness to the sacrifices and blessings of the various Christian vocations through evangelization and catechesis. The program inspires young people to develop a deep desire for conversion and personally renew their faith with a stronger prayer life.

Totus Tuus works to complement what the children are learning from their parents, who are the first and best educators in matters of faith. This is something Bishop Dewane has stressed since the program had its trial run in the Diocese in 2022.

Diocesan Youth and Youth Adult Director Andres Prias said during the past four years of the Totus Tuus program he has witnessed its growth, “not only in the number of Parishes involved or participants attending, but in how the experience itself has taken root. Families, youth, and children have truly made it their own. It comes down to the work of the missionaries, whose witness has touched so many hearts, giving life to the words: “We are all yours, Lord Jesus.’”

Jim Gontis, Diocesan Director of Evangelization, said the expansion to 17 Parishes this year came about through the unwavering support of Bishop Dewane, and the collaborative effort that begins with the outstanding missionaries, Parish Pastors and Administrators, as well as the Parish leaders and volunteers.

“One of the most beautiful fruits of Totus Tuus is the joy on the faces of the young people,” Gontis said. “This was evident as they encountered Jesus in the Mass, in Eucharistic Adoration, and in the healing grace of Confession. Many parents remarked how much their children shared with them about what they learned about the Sacraments, the power of the Rosary, and the Catholic Faith as a whole.”

Parishes hosting Totus Tuus this summer were:

Arcadia

St. Paul

Ave Maria

Ave Maria

Bradenton

Sacred Heart, and St. Joseph

Cape Coral

St. Katharine Drexel

Fort Myers

St. Cecilia, Our Lady of Light, and St. John XXIII

LaBelle

Our Lady Queen of Heaven

Lakewood Ranch

Our Lady of the Angels

Naples

St. Finbarr, St. Agnes, and St. Peter the Apostle

North Port

San Pedro

Parrish

St. Frances Xavier Cabrini

Sarasota

St. Jude

Venice

Epiphany Cathedral

Catholic Charities helps hundreds of Lee County families

Posted on July 31, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Many still recovering from Hurricane Ian two years later

By Kirsten Pederson, Special to the Florida Catholic

Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice, Inc. has distributed more than $2.7 million in aid to survivors of Hurricane Ian, with support reaching at least 960 individuals in Lee County. This milestone, achieved through Catholic Charities’ Unmet Needs Long-Term Recovery Group (LTRG), reflects a coordinated effort to rebuild lives, restore homes, and offer hope to families in Lee County who are still recovering more than two years after Ian’s devastating impact.

Catholic Charities led and co-funded the LTRG program, in partnership with the Lee County Board of County Commissioners and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through the CDBG-DR program. Through LTRG, Catholic Charities has provided comprehensive recovery assistance to Hurricane Ian survivors, including housing repairs, complete home replacements, accessibility upgrades, employment services, transportation support, and mental health care. All of this, an attempt to help families rebuild their lives with dignity and stability.

Catholic Charities has achieved the following in Lee County (as of July 22, 2025):

Helped 960 individuals with housing, food, counseling, and recovery services;
Provided 495 individuals with assistance, each representing unique needs;
Replaced 149 homes for families whose houses were beyond repair;
Repaired 148 homes to safe living conditions;
Completed 9 accessibility upgrades, improving the quality of life for many.

“The mission of Catholic Charities is to be the charitable arm of the Diocese of Venice,” said Bishop Frank J. Dewane. “What is faith if you do not have action with it? Catholic Charities responds not only to urgent needs, but also to ongoing need in the community and will continue to do so as long as there are people in need.”

“This work reflects who we are,” said Chris Root, CEO of Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice. “Our mission is to provide help, create hope, and serve all. We walk with people through their suffering to bring relief, dignity, and restoration. We are proud to stand alongside our partners and continue supporting survivors until the work is truly finished.”

The Lee County Unmet Needs Long-Term Recovery Group is a public-private partnership composed of local, state, nonprofit, and faith-based organizations. Catholic Charities serves as a lead agency, helping ensure that vulnerable residents continue to receive case management and direct support long after initial disaster response teams have moved on.

To learn more about Catholic Charities’ ongoing disaster recovery efforts or to donate, visit catholiccharities.org/LTRG.