Tag: bishop frank dewane

Catholic Community Foundation presents 24 scholarships

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Bishop Frank J. Dewane, joined by Board members of the Catholic Community Foundation of Southwest Florida Inc., honored 24 scholarship winners during a ceremony on May 28, 2026, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice.

The recipients of the Mary Fran Carroll, Coseglia, Schaerf, Toner, Schwarz and Bertoni Scholarships were recognized for their outstanding academic achievements and for their commitment to continuing their education in pursuit of wide-ranging career paths such as education, medicine, business, engineering and more. The Foundation Scholarship Committee carefully reviewed 144 applications before determining the winners. Many of the Foundation Board members were present for the luncheon.

Bishop Dewane opened the presentation with prayer and said he was impressed with the new Foundation scholars, noting their academic success and ambition to seek out distinctive goals. “We pray that whatever they may embark upon, the students will be successful in their life.”

Michael Morse, Executive Director of the Catholic Community Foundation, congratulated the new scholars, saying the young men and women are worthy to forever be known as Foundation Scholars.

“Reading your stories and what you want to do and what you have already accomplished is so inspirational,” Morse said. “Our committee works hard in the selection process, and it is one of the most rewarding things the Board does. You are an amazing group of students, now young adults, that we are so excited to see flourish and lead the next generation.”

The Mary Fran Carroll Scholarship for 2026 provided a total of 15 academic scholarships ($4,500) to residents of Sarasota County and is available for tuition, books and fees. This year there were 13 traditional scholarship winners (high school graduates pursuing an undergraduate degree) and two non-traditional winners (an adult learner seeking an advanced education after being away from school for a number of years). The scholarship is renewable annually up to a total of five academic years ($17,500 total) for students maintaining a minimum unweighted GPA of 3.2 or greater, while also making progress toward their career goal. In the past years many students have had their scholarship renewed.

The Coseglia Scholarship provides a one-time scholarship ($1,100) to one financially needy graduating senior from each of the four Catholic High Schools within the Diocese of Venice. The winners were nominated by their high schools and approved by the Foundation Board.

The Frederick W. Schaerf, M.D., Ph.D. Neuroscience Scholarship provides a one-time scholarship ($4,000) to a graduating senior from Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers interested in pursuing a career in neuroscience or similar field. This was the sixth year the scholarship has been offered.

The Schwarz Scholarship is a one-time college scholarship ($8,000) to be awarded for tuition, books, fees, and housing expenses for a student graduating from Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School in Sarasota.

The Dr. Steven Toner Math Award Scholarship, is a one-time approximately $1,500 scholarship to one college-bound financially needy student graduating from St. John Neumann High School in Naples Florida with an interest in pursuing a career in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) field.

The Barry L. Carey, M.D. Scholarship, a single, four-year renewable college scholarship for a practicing Catholic high school senior graduating this year from a Catholic, private, home school, or public school within the 10 counties of the Diocese of Venice in Florida. The scholarship is $400, and renewable up to four years for a total of $1,600. Additionally, the recipient must be the first generation in their family to attend a college or university.

The new Frank M. Bertoni & Beverly Cimini-Bertoni Scholarship, is a three-year renewable scholarship to students pursuing an education in nursing, a technical field, or other vocational program. The scholarship is $5,000, and renewable up to three years for a total of $15,000.

During the scholarship ceremony, the recipients shared their personal experiences as well as college and career goals. Each expressed their appreciation for the scholarship from the Foundation. Many specifically explained how the scholarship money will assist in lessening the financial burden of attending college and pursuing their career goals. Several are interested in entering the medical field either as a doctor, nurse or researcher, while others are interested in pursuing careers in business.

Grace Casanova, a graduate of Pineview High School and parishioner at St. Patrick Parish in Sarasota, is the inaugural recipient of the Bertoni Scholarship. She plans to pursue an associate’s degree in nursing from the State College of Florida. “I am beyond grateful to God and my family. I have always been interested in researching Alzheimer’s and dementia and will focus on gerontology. I am inspired, truly and deeply, by my mother who is a critical care and ER nurse. For everything she has given to me I am so grateful to her and to God for this opportunity. I am beyond honored to be the inaugural recipient of this scholarship and look forward to using it wisely.”

The Catholic Community Foundation of Southwest Florida Inc. was established to provide philanthropic opportunities for individuals, such as Mary Fran Carroll, to create lasting gifts in support of Catholic programs and ministries within the Diocese of Venice. This year, the Foundation is on track to distribute $7.5 million in endowed support for Catholic Schools, Parishes, Seminarian education, programs for the needy, college scholarships and more.

To learn more about the Catholic Community Foundation, please contact Michael Morse at 941-441-1124 or by email at Morse@dioceseofvenice.org. You can also visit the Foundation website at www.CCFDioceseofvenice.org.

2026 Catholic Community Foundation of Southwest Florida, Inc. Scholars

Mary Fran Carroll Scholars – Traditional

Michael Barry, Riverview High School, University of South Florida;

Alexia Batista, Riverview High School, University of South Florida;

Courtney Blanton, Venice High School, Florida State University;

Estephany De Luna, Sarasota High School, Emerson College;

Chloe Dyndal, Potter’s Wheel Academy, Florida Atlantic University;

Evan Espinosa, Venice High School, Lipscomb University;

Kendall Flach, Venice High School, Florida State University;

Ashley Grimsley-Izaguirre, Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School; Eckerd College;

Alex Liu, Pineview High School, Carnegie Mellon University;

Aryana Lovely, Venice High School, Florida Southern College;

Elisabeth McConnell, State College of Florida Collegiate School, Liberty University;

Santiago Sanabria Gonzalez, Riverview High School, University of Miami;

Nathaniel Sharpe; Suncoast Polytechnic High School, Florida Polytechnic University;

Alyssa Visaggio, Venice High School, University of South Florida.

Mary Fran Carroll Scholar – Non-Traditional

Lindis Cuenca, Suncoast Technical College.

Frank and Florence Coseglia Memorial Scholarship

Patrick Dowell, Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School, University of Florida;

Sophia Bosco, St. John Neumann Catholic High School, University of Florida;

Jack Kadlec, Donahue Catholic Academy of Ave Maria Parish, Ave Maria University;

Isabella Mparaganda, Bishop Verot Catholic High School, Pontifical Javarian University.

James and Margaret Schwarz Scholarship

Markella Polo, Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School, Florida Atlantic University.

Frederick W. Schaerf, M.D., Ph.D. Neuroscience Scholarship

Isabella Mparaganda, Bishop Verot Catholic High School, Pontifical Javarian University.

Dr. Steve Toner Math Award Scholarship

Brandon Elarde, St. John Neumann Catholic High School, University of Central Florida.

Frank M. Bertoni & Bverly Cimini-Bertoni Scholarship

Grace Casanova, Pineview High School, State College of Florida.

Barry L Carey, MD, Scholarship

Kiersten Bosse, Port Charlotte High School, University of South Florida.

Bishops consecrating the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus 

Posted on by Bob Reddy

As the United States of America commemorates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) joins the festivities by recognizing and celebrating the contributions of Catholics and the impact of our faith on the history of this country. As part of this celebration, in a historic moment the U.S. Bishops will consecrate the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus on June 11, 2026.

Consecration to the Sacred Heart of Jesus signals to God that His goodness is not forgotten and that our country relies on God’s providence for continued flourishing, bringing blessing and hope to a country suffering from wounds of division and an epidemic of loneliness.

“May this time be embraced by all as an opportunity for prayer, reflection, and renewal, as hearts entrust themselves more deeply to the loving Heart of Jesus and all pray for the healing of our country,” Bishop Frank J. Dewane said.

The Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is celebrated on the Friday immediately following the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi), which the Church incorporated in the Liturgical Calendar in response to the mystical visions experienced by St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, in Paray-le-Monial, France, between 1673 and 1675. However, the foundational devotion of meditating on the wounded Heart of Christ was born at the foot of the Cross through the divinely inspired love which the saints bore from then on to the Sacred Passion of the Crucified and Pierced Christ. Later, the early Church Fathers and countless saints, such as St. Bernard of Clairvaux, St. Gertrude the Great, St. Bonaventure and St. John Eudes, all encouraged devotion to the Pierced Heart of Jesus. This is why many Popes have also lauded such devotion and encouraged the practice of consecrating themselves, their homes, and even whole nations to the Sacred Heart.

Parishes across the country, including here in the Diocese of Venice, were asked to join in this consecration. Epiphany Cathedral in Venice has embraced the opportunity by celebrating a special Novena to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus from June 3-11. The Novena prayers will be offered after every morning Mass, except on Sunday, June 7, when they will be prayed individually. There will also be a Vigil of the Solemnity on July 11, when the Consecration will take place. The Cathedral will offer Exposition and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, as well as opportunities for Confession beginning at 5 p.m., followed by Mass at 6 p.m.

All the faithful, including families, are encouraged to pray the Novena Prayer (Novena to the Sacred Heart of Jesus | USCCB), at home if they are unable to attend the Mass at Epiphany, for an ever greater increase of our love for others, especially all in need, after the Pierced Heart of Jesus, Who willingly gave His life for our salvation. The faithful are also encouraged to pray that we grow evermore as a nation, in defense of the weak, protection and greater increase of justice, and in our union, so blessed by God.

Two Parishes within the Diocese are named for the Sacred Heart, one in Bradenton, the other in Punta Gorda. To celebrate the Solemnity, Sacred Heart Parish in Bradenton 1220 15th St. W., Bradenton, will celebrate its daily Mass at 7:30 a.m., and then celebrate a Mass for the Solemnity and Parish Feast Day at 7 p.m., followed by a reception. At Sacred Heart Parish in Punta Gorda, the daily Mass at 7:30 a.m. will cover both Solemnity and Feast Day.

Prayer to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

On the occasion of the U.S. Bishops Consecrating the United States of America to the Sacred Heart of Jesus:

O Most Sacred Heart of Jesus:

You know the longings of our hearts, and you desire that we enjoy friendship with you.

From your pierced side, you have poured out the wellspring of life, for which we thirst.

Your heart burns with a love for all people to return to a right relationship with you.

We celebrate the abundant gifts you have given this nation, founded on the self-evident truths that our Creator has endowed

all people with the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

We make reparation for the offenses against you and against human dignity that have taken place in this nation.

May our hearts be united to yours, so that our families and communities enjoy peace and happiness; may broken

relationships be reconciled, injustices repaired, and the wounds of our land be healed.

May your holy Catholic Church serve as a sign, pointing all people to your infinite love.

O Desire of Nations and Center of History, we ask you to bless these United States of America.

Who live and reign with God the Father

in the unity of the Holy Spirit,

God, for ever and ever.

Amen.

 

Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us!

Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us!

Catholic Charities part of regional anti-human trafficking rescue mission

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice Anti-Human Trafficking Team was part of a larger coalition organized to support a multi-agency Missing Child Rescue Operation to locate endangered missing youth across Lee, Collier and Hendry counties.

The Missing Child Rescue Operation rescued 21 missing and endangered children across Lee, Collier and Hendry counties in an operation which culminated with an announcement on May 29, 2026.

The National Child Protection Task Force (NCPTF) was the lead agency with the Catholic Charities Anti-Human Trafficking Team participating as part of the on-site advocacy group because of their expertise in trauma-informed care and experience supporting vulnerable and potentially exploited youth. This was the second time Catholic Charities has been called to assist in a muti-agency anti-human trafficking rescue. In November of 2025, 29 children from the Fort Myers region were rescued.

Catholic Charities CEO Christopher M. Root said agency advocates helped ensure that every child rescued then encountered compassion, stability, and immediate support during the recovery process. This included providing basic necessities, offering emotional reassurance, and collaborating closely with the broader team to make sure each child’s immediate safety and well-being was prioritized.

“Our case managers assist people and try to help everyone with every need, but first we strive to give everyone who comes to us dignity,” Root said. “We want them to know and understand who they are, made in image and likeness of God.”

Bishop Frank J. Dewane, who has been an outspoken supporter of this Catholic Charities outreach program, stated, “Once again, it was a blessing that Catholic Charities was able to step up and help in this multi-agency effort. Assisting the victims of human trafficking is an important outreach that impacts far too many. The Catholic Charities team are on the frontlines helping children, and adults, overcome an exploitation that is nearly impossible to comprehend.”

Catholic Charities case managers were assigned to work on the reunification process as children were reunited with family whenever possible. Catholic Charities offers a variety of counseling and other services for victims of human trafficking. While some of the children refused, others accepted this offer of help and will be assisted as long as needed. For those who passed on immediate help, the Catholic Charities team provided information to the parents/guardians in case future assistance is needed.

Missing Child Rescue Operations focus on providing critical resources to not only rescue children, but also to prevent vulnerable youth from becoming victims of human trafficking, sexual exploitation and further harm.

Because many missing children are vulnerable to trafficking and exploitation, the operation also connected recovered youth directly with local advocacy organizations, such as Catholic Charities, and support services focused on safety, stability and care after recovery. These partnerships help strengthen the community response surrounding vulnerable children long after the operation concludes.

“Every child deserves to be found, heard and supported,” said Al Rollins, director of law enforcement partnerships for the National Child Protection Task Force. “This operation brought together law enforcement, advocates and technology partners from across the region to help locate vulnerable children and strengthen what happens next for them after recovery.”

About the Anti-Human Trafficking Assistance program

The Catholic Charities Anti-Human Trafficking Assistance program has a long-standing commitment to the plight of human trafficking in Southwest Florida by providing intensive case management and mental health counseling to all individuals who are the victims of this crime as they attempt to integrate into society after being rescued.

 

The group works closely with law enforcement agencies and prosecutors throughout Southwest Florida to provide and coordinate an expansive array of services to survivors from basic human needs to legal representation. Comprehensive case management and direct assistance is offered to all victims of severe human trafficking, which include minors, adults, and both domestic and foreign-born individuals. A victim-centered approach is used to deliver aid to clients while maintaining a mission of compassion, integrity, and empathy.

 

Victims are offered the following services: food and clothing; coordination to a shelter at a safe distance from the site of the exploitation; transitional housing; medical and dental service coordination; mental health counseling; referrals for further mental health services as needed; state and federal laws and benefits orientation and education; benefit application assistance; educational and language service opportunities; liaison with law enforcement and immigration service providers; and coordination with various community agencies for other required services.

 

Catholic Charities staff is active in various organizations that coordinate efforts to combat human trafficking and to inform the public about this heinous crime.

 

To learn more about the Anti-Human Trafficking Assistance program, please call 239-738-8722, or visit https://catholiccharitiesdov.org/anti-human-trafficking. If you would like to support this program, you can scan the QR code or visit https://catholiccharitiesdov.org/donate.

 

Ave Maria Parish school celebrates 2025 high school graduation

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The Ave Maria Catholic Academy celebrated the Baccalaureate Mass and 19th Commencement Exercises for its 31 graduating seniors in Ave Maria on May 29, 2026.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane was the main celebrant for the Mass which was attended by all the students, faculty and staff of the school. The opening procession for the Mass included each graduate carrying a white rose which was then placed in a vase before a statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Bishop Dewane praised the graduates for their academic achievements and remarked that his prayers were for their continued spiritual growth as they leave high school.

“The way to accomplish true spiritual growth is only by opening your hearts to the Holy Spirit for this will allow your faith to grow continually,” Bishop Dewane said. “Become more aware of what Christ gave us in His victory over death. Let that victory continue to shape your lives.”

Following Mass, Bishop Dewane stood for a photo with the graduates on the steps of the Parish. After some time for photos with the families, the festivities moved to the nearby school, with the commencement exercises taking place in the school gymnasium.

Principal Dr. Marc Snyder reflected upon how the school offers an authentic classical education where students encounter Christ each day and pursue excellence in all things from academics through sports.

Paul Jahnke, a National Merit Scholarship winner, was the class Valedictorian while the Salutatorian was Camila Pineros. In addition, one graduate, Connor Cameron, will be going on to study as a Diocese of Venice Seminarian at St. John Vianney College Seminary in Miami.

Dr. Joseph Guernsey, class of 2011, was the keynote speaker. Father David Vidal, Ave Maria Parish Pastor, offered the opening prayer while Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocese of Venice Superintendent of Catholic Education, offered closing remarks and Benediction.

The 31 graduates earned an impressive $5.7 million in scholarship offers. In addition, many are going on to attend Catholic colleges in the fall.

Pentecost – commemoration of the descent of Holy Spirit upon Apostles

Posted on by Bob Reddy

205 from 33 Parishes confirmed by Bishop

The journey of the Easter Season is concluded, and the Holy Spirit has descended to provide the faithful with the tremendous gifts of wisdom, knowledge, understanding, fortitude, counsel, piety and fear of the Lord.

Celebrated May 24, 2026, the Solemnity of Pentecost Sunday marks an important transition in the lives of the Apostles and clarifies their mission in creating the Lord’s Church on earth. It is traditionally viewed as the Church’s founding. Pentecost, which literally means 50, falls 50 days after Easter and is 10 days after the Ascension of the Lord. As a symbol of the “tounges of fire” of the Holy Spirit rained down on the Apostles, the clergy wear red vestments on this day.

“This is one of the greatest Feast Days of the Church in the context of Salvation History,” said Bishop Frank J. Dewane. “It is when Jesus establishes His Church on earth … the descent of the Holy Spirit, by the Father and the Son, signals the commencement and founding of the Church and all its works.”

This celebration commemorates when the Apostles, though still afraid, accepted the Gifts of the Holy Spirit and their role in carrying the message of the Lord into the world, the Bishop said.

The gifts of the Holy Spirit are sealed in the faithful through the Sacrament of Confirmation. Therefore, Pentecost is the time when those who have been baptized and are seeking to be more fully united to Christ within the Church are confirmed around the world.

At Our Lady of Light Parish in Fort Myers, Bishop Dewane bestowed the Sacrament of Confirmation upon 205 candidates representing 33 Parishes across the Diocese. These candidates were unable, for whatever reason, to be confirmed at their own Parishes during the past several months.

Bishop Dewane thanked the candidates for coming forward to be confirmed and said that the Sacrament of Confirmation must change them as they have been given a new beginning in their lives; they are making a permanent commitment that comes with corresponding responsibilities as an indelible mark is left upon their soul.

“We celebrate your presence here, that each one of you has come forward to be confirmed; to receive the Holy Spirit,” the Bishop said. “Every time we receive a Sacrament, we have an encounter with Jesus Christ. We must be changed as a result of that encounter. Today, you confirmandi are changed to be more that man or woman of God you are called to be.”

That change comes because living the faith must not flatline; which leads to spiritual death. Faith is always a continuing journey to grow closer to the Lord, Bishop Dewane continued.

“The Holy Spirit calls each of us; and we must respond in a very profound way to that call,” the Bishop said. “It’s not just what you are doing today, it is what you going to do when you leave here today, becoming ever more knowledgeable and acquainted with Jesus Christ in your lives.”

Bishop Dewane said it was no accident that brought the candidates forward. “It is a blessing. Take that strength and go forward, anointed with the gifts of the Holy Spirit.”

During the Sacrament, the confirmandi renewed their baptismal promises, which Bishop Dewane said is done to publicly proclaim who they are as Catholics and to have the courage, hope, faith and perseverance to be true followers of Christ.

As the Rite continued, the Bishop said an introductory prayer and asked all present to join him in praying for the candidates. He then recites an additional prayer pertaining to the Gifts of the Holy Spirit. Finally, the candidates were asked to come forward, with their sponsor placing their right hand on the candidate’s right shoulder. Bishop Dewane and Father Eric Scanlan, Pastor of Our Lady of Light Parish, who was delegated by the Bishop to assist in the Confirmation due to the large number of candidates, then administered the Rite. As two lines of confirmandi came forward, the Bishop and Father made the sign of the cross on each candidate’s forehead with the Holy Chrism Oil with their right thumb and said “Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.” The confirmed replied, “Amen.” At this point, the Bishop/Father said, “Peace be with you,” and the newly confirmed respond, “And with your spirit.”

One woman from St. Leo the Great Parish in Bonita Springs expressed her joy at being confirmed by Bishop Dewane. “What a beautiful day.”

A man from St. Francis Xavier Parish in Fort Myers explained how he drifted from his faith when his parents were divorced when he was a teen. It was through the encouragement of his grandmother, a steady presence in his life, that he sought the Sacrament of Confirmation. “This is an important moment for me. I feel complete as a Catholic. A closer relationship to the Lord is what I need in my life.”

Memorial Garden blessed and dedicated in Sarasota

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Hundreds of the faithful at St. Thomas More Parish in Sarasota gathered for the blessing and dedication of a renovated memorial garden and new prayer garden on May 27, 2026, following the 8 a.m. daily Mass.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane told the faithful that it is important to bless and dedicate such sacred spaces and to be “conscious of those who came before us, as they paved the way and give us strength that prepares the way for all of us to have a future encounter with Jesus Christ.”

Bishop Dewane celebrated the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass prior to the blessing and dedication. At the conclusion of the Mass, Bishop Dewane, led everyone into the renovated Mary’s Memorial Garden, which is in a space adjacent to the Parish church. The new Gethsemane Prayer Garden was built in its own space to the north of Mary’s Memorial Garden.

Father Nick Thompson, St. Thomas More Administrator, said he was grateful to the parishioners for having such a strong spiritual connection to Mary’s Memorial Garden, and the openness to dedicate new space was a blessing.

“St. Thomas More’s Parish family is an extraordinary example of a community dedicated to its mission of keeping faith, love and ministry alive,” Father Thompson said. Father also credited the generosity of parishioners Al Pezzillo, Arthur and Dolores Holliday and Al Ferrigno.

Mary’s Memorial Garden, established in 1989 by the Parish’s first Pastor, Father Gene Ryan, was inspired by details recorded in the Gospel of John, has since become the final resting place for more than 600 individuals remembered in peace amid the garden’s beauty and honored by plaques along a garden wall. The garden has undergone a transformative renewal. There is now a fountain along one wall, and a beautiful mosaic, created by Mila Apperlo, which depicts the Risen Christ. The garden was also repainted, turf was installed to protect against wind and rain, and new plantings were added to enhance the space.

The Gethsemane Prayer Garden is a serene space inviting meditation on the Passion of Christ. It’s physical placement beside Mary’s Memorial Garden underscores the symbolic connection between Mary and Jesus. Fourteen Stations of the Cross, each containing an Italian hand-painted illustration encased within a wooden frame were crafted by parishioners and woodworker Al Ferrigno. While the gardens are accessible from the church, there is also access to the spaces from the parking lot.

A reception followed in the Parish Hall.

2026 Totus Tuus summer program to be offered at 20 Parishes

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The successful Totus Tuus Parish summer catechetical camps will soon be taking place near you.

The final week of May saw 16 missionaries undergo intensive training and preparation as the first two Parish camps start May 31, 2026. Ultimately, there will be seven separate weeks of camp with a total of 20 Parishes serving as weekly hosts through July 24. More than 1,000 children and teens will be impacted by this special outreach.

 Totus Tuus – which means “totally yours” – is a one-week Parish Catechetical summer day camp program, for students entering grades 1-12, and aims to inspire young people to long for holiness, develop a deep desire for conversion and personally renew their faith with a stronger prayer life.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane encouraged the pilot program be brought to the Diocese in 2022 to great success, with expansions in 2023 to 11 host Parishes, 12 for 2024, 18 for 2025 and now 20 for 2026. During past visits to Totus Tuus camps, Bishop Dewane has been impressed by the response each child had to the uplifting program. “In each classroom everyone was so excited and alive about their love of the Lord!”

Bishop Dewane celebrated Mass for the Totus Tuus missionaries on May 27, while they were training at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice. The Bishop thanked the missionaries for their service in the Diocese and encouraged them to call upon the Holy Spirit to guide them through the summer and reminded them of the important role they will have for the boys and girls they encounter this summer.

This training focused on the spiritual aspect of the Totus Tuus program, including daily prayer, Eucharistic Adoration, and the Mass. Other components of the training covered the fundamentals of teaching young children and youth, as well as the fun aspects of the camp including the songs and dances that the campers will learn.

The week-long camps are divided into two segments, with the day camp for students entering grades 1 – 6, and an evening camp for middle school and high school students entering grades 7 – 12.

The younger children participate in several classes each day, attend daily Mass, learn the parts and liturgical music of Mass, and participate in games, skits, songs, recess and prayer. The older students participate in instruction, small group discussions, quiet meditations, prayer and fellowship.

Most importantly, Totus Tuus works to complement what parents teach their children in matters of their faith. This is something Bishop Dewane has stressed since the program had its trial run in the Diocese in 2022.

The 2026 Totus Tuus Summer Program schedule is as follows:

May 31 – June 5 – St. Frances Cabrini Parish, Parrish and St. Finbarr Parish, Naples;
June 7-12 – Epiphany Cathedral, Venice, St. Paul Parish, Arcadia, and Ave Maria Parish, Ave Maria;
June 14-19 – St. Agnes Parish, Naples, San Pedro Parish, North Port, St. Michael Parish, Wauchula, and St. Leo the Great Parish, Bonita Springs;
June 21-26 – St. Katharine Drexel Parish, Cape Coral, and Sacred Heart Parish, Bradenton;

July 5-10 – St. James Parish, Lake Placid, St. Catherine Parish, Sebring, Our Lady of Grace Parish, Avon Park, and Our Lady Queen of Heaven Parish, LaBelle;
July 12-17 – St. Joseph Parish, Bradenton, and Our Lady of Light Parish (Day Session)/ St. John XXIII Parish, Fort Myers (Evening Session);
July 19-24 – Our Lady of the Angels Parish, Lakewood Ranch, and St. Jude Parish, Sarasota. 

Please pray for the success of the Totus Tuus summer program, the campers, and the missionaries.

Camp registration information

Youth are welcome to attend any of the Totus Tuus camps, but registration is requested ahead of time. To register, please contact the hosting Parish directly. Parish contact information can be found at https://dioceseofvenice.org/find-a-parish/.

For more information, contact Andres Prias at prias@dioceseovenice.org, or 941-441-1122.

2026 Mooney seniors graduate

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School held its commencement exercises for 174 graduating seniors on May 22, 2026, at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Center on the Sarasota bayfront.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated the Baccalaureate Mass for the graduating class on May 20, 2025, at Incarnation Parish in Sarasota. Bishop Dewane thanked the parents for entrusting Cardinal Mooney with the education of their children. He also praised the graduates for their academic achievement, adding that his prayers were for their continued spiritual growth as they leave the Cardinal Mooney community to points beyond.

The Cardinal Mooney graduating seniors performed approximately 22,000 community service hours, and 94 percent are going directly to college. They earned nearly $13 million in scholarship offers, a number that does not yet include Florida Bright Future Scholarships. Several dozen will be attending Catholic universities, and one will attend the U.S. Military Academy. Other graduates will serve in the military, work or have a gap year.

During graduation the Cardinal Mooney Outstanding Senior Award was presented by Principal Ben Hopper to both Lucia Maria del Valle and Mason Dean Jordan. These two students were selected because they demonstrate the school’s ideals of religious and moral responsibility, personal and social responsibility, intellectual achievement, and a sense of purpose and direction, among other desirable traits and qualities. Their pictures and distinct honor will be placed in the school lobby.

Duke Bergstrom was the class Valedictorian and Gabriel Mehlum was Salutatorian. Father Alex Pince, Cardinal Mooney Chaplain, offered the invocation, while Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocesan Superintendent of Catholic Education, offered the Final Blessing.

 

 

News Briefs for the week of May 29, 2026

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Parish group participates in opening of National Eucharistic Pilgrimage

Pilgrims from St. Michael Parish in Wauchula traveled on May 24, 2026, to St. Augustine to join the beginning of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage for the 250th Anniversary of the United States, and the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The pilgrims attended the opening Mass at the location of the First Mass on American soil in 1565. A group later reenacted the story of many priests and laypeople who died for their faith as Martyrs in the 1700s in La Florida. The day ended with a Eucharistic Procession, Jesus truly present in the Blessed Sacrament, through the streets of St. Augustine to the Cathedral. The Eucharistic Pilgrims will travel through all 13 colonies in the next six weeks, concluding in Philadelphia on 4th of July where the Declaration of Independence was signed 250 years ago in 1776.

Women religious from St. John Neumann reunite

The weekend of May 22-25, 2026, Salesian Sisters from across the country gathered in New Jersey to meet with Sister Ruth del Pilar Mora, FMA, a prominent leader and the General Councilor for the Missions of the Daughters of Mary, Help of Christians. Among those in attendance were several beloved St. John Neumann Catholic High School Alumni Sisters who faithfully served at St. John Neumann during the past 15 years. It was a joyful moment as they reunited for a special photo, reconnecting with one another and reflecting on the many lives they have touched through their ministry at Neumann. Thank you, Sisters, for your service, faith, and the love you continue to share with the Neumann family!

 Students take part in final Rosary Walk of school year

Seventh graders at St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral took part in the final Rosary Walk of the school year on May 22, 2026. The Rosary Walk is situated next to the Parish church and offers the opportunity for students to pray in a peaceful setting. St. Andrew Catholic School is blessed to continue its mission of Building Faith, Hearts and Minds.

Donations needed for Our Mother’s House

Our Mother’s House, a transitional housing program for homeless mom’s with young children operated by Catholic Charities in Venice, is making an appeal for donated cleaning supplies and other items. To learn more about the need, and how to drop off supplies, please call 941-485-6264, or email ckane@ccdov.org, or omh@ccdov.org.

 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.

Adult Education Workshop in Naples June 10

Community Pregnancy Clinics will offer its monthly Created for Greatness Adult Education Series at 6:30 p.m., June 10, 2026, at the Naples Clinic, 661 Goodlette-Frank Road. The June topic is “Stories of Grace: An Evening of Adoption Testimonies.” Whether you are curious, considering adoption, or simply open-hearted, you are welcome to come hear the powerful true stories of families whose lives have been transformed through the gift of adoption. All are welcome! Please invite your friends and neighbors! RSVP at Created for Greatness – Stories of Grace: An Evening of Adoption Testimonies.

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, 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.

Theology on Tap June 18 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., June 18, 2026, at Oak & Stone, 5405 University Parkway, University Park. The featured speaker is Chris Root, CEO of Catholic Charities, who will be leading a talk called, “Encountering Christ Through Service to Others.” 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.

Catholic Classical education Conference June 19-21 in Fort Myers

The 3rd annual AMICE Conference hosted by Donahue Academy of Ave Maria will take place June 19-21, 2026, at Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers. The conference offers an excellent opportunity for teachers, staff, administrators and parents to learn more about classical education. This year’s theme “The Great Conversation: The contributions of the Great Books in a Catholic Classical Education,” will be presented by outstanding educators who have years of experience in the Classical Educational model. Keynote speakers: Dr. Andrew Zwerneman, Dr. Dan Guernsey and Dr. Denise Donohue, will start the discussion followed by 12 additional breakout speakers who will add their insights to the three-day event. The AMICE conference aims to bring together all who are exploring or deepening their knowledge of Catholic classical education, particularly in the Diocese of Venice, to offer a bold response to the Church’s call for the renewal of Catholic education in the modern world. Please sign up in advance by going to the conference at https://giving.parishsoft.com/App/Form/bc65a052-b716-4a2d-a526-53ee20dae8a4, The cost is $129 per person, which includes meals. There is a group rate of $89 per person if your school or organization registers at least five participants. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to Donahue Academy’s Advancement Director Wil Hampton at wil.hampton@donahueacademy.org, or Assistant Director Jana Patterson at jana.patterson@donahueacademy.org.

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.

The Year of St. Francis

Bishop Frank J. Dewane has designated St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Grove City to serve as a pilgrimage destination for the Diocese of Venice in the extraordinary Jubilee Year of St. Francis, honoring St. Francis of Assisi on the 800th anniversary of his death. All are encouraged to make a pilgrimage to the Parish during this Jubilee Year for a unique experience of encounter, prayer and renewal. The Church and its Poor Clare Adoration Chapel are open to welcome pilgrims every Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and at other times by arrangement. For details, please visit the St. Francis of Assisi Parish website at https://www.sfoachurch.com/jubilee-2025.

BEWARE 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.

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

Posted on 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/.

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