bishop frank dewane Archives - Diocese of Venice

Bishop Dewane Speaks Out About “Alligator Alcatraz” and Immigration Enforcement

Posted on July 10, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Bishop Frank J. Dewane calls on all people of goodwill to pray for our government officials, for those in immigration custody and their families, for those who work in enforcement, and for justice and prosperity across our nation. Please read a letter from Bishop Dewane to the faithful offered below in English and Spanish.

July 3, 2025

My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

As the new detention center becomes operational at Dade-Collier Airport, or “Alligator Alcatraz,” it seems necessary to take stock of recent developments in immigration enforcement and the need for further improvements to our wider immigration system.

Broad Support for Actions Against Criminals

In describing immigration enforcement initiatives, the Trump administration has stated its focus is on removing criminal aliens who endanger public safety. This concern is widely shared. There is no argument with this. However, the need for just immigration enforcement and the government’s obligation to carry it out must be undertaken in a way that is targeted, humane and proportional.

Growing Recognition of Contributions of Immigrants

There is also a growing recognition that many, indeed most immigrants, even those who are not lawfully present, are not dangerous but peaceful, law-abiding, and hardworking contributors to our communities and to our economy. President Trump has acknowledged this in his recent remarks establishing a farm pass for those working in the agriculture industry.

Concern for strategies and rhetoric failing to respond to the dignity of persons

It is alarming to see enforcement strategies which treat all unauthorized immigrants as dangerous criminals. Masked, heavily armed agents who fail to identify themselves in enforcement activities are surprising. So is an apparent lack of due process in deportation proceedings in recent months.

Along this line, much current rhetoric is obviously intentionally provocative. It is unbecoming of public officials and corrosive of the common good to speak of the deterrence value of “alligators and pythons” at the Collier-Dade facility. I do not speak so glibly in regard to convicted felons in Florida Department of Corrections facilities. Decency requires that we remember individuals being detained are fathers and mothers, brothers and sisters of distressed relatives. This dignity of every person always remains unchanged: it is the dignity of a creature willed and loved by God (Pope Leo XIV, 16 May 2025).

Regarding the Center and Conditions

Observers note that people will be held at the new center in temporary structures, in the heat of the Florida summer, crowded in confined spaces, far from medical facilities and possibly located in the path of hurricanes. I have every hope that for brief stays, the conditions will benefit human dignity.

Concern for pastoral needs of detainees and staff

As this and other planned facilities become operational, it should be ensured that chaplains and pastoral ministers will be able to serve those in custody, to their benefit and that of the staff.

Reiterating a call for reforms to U.S. immigration system and support for those involved

The bishops of the United States have long been advocates of reforms to our immigration system. Thoughtful observers of the challenges faced by our country cannot help but recognize that serious reforms are necessary to preserve safety and the integrity of our borders, as well as to accommodate needs for labor, family stability and the ability of those at risk of grave harm to migrate with due process. Enforcement should be proportional. We continue to propose reforms that will enhance our immigration system, respect human dignity and promote the common good. For more on the bishops’ approach to immigration reforms, click here.

I call on all people of goodwill to pray for our government officials, for those in immigration custody and their families, for those who work in enforcement, and for justice and prosperity across our nation.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

+ Frank J. Dewane

Bishop of the Diocese of Venice in Florida

Una Declaración del Obispo Frank J. Dewane sobre la Aplicación de la Ley de Inmigración, 3 de julio de 2025

A medida que el nuevo centro de detención entra en funcionamiento en el Aeropuerto Dade-Collier, o “Alligator Alcatraz”, parece necesario hacer un balance de los desarrollos recientes en la aplicación de la ley de inmigración y la necesidad de más mejoras en nuestro sistema de inmigración en general.

Amplio Apoyo a las Acciones Contra los Delincuentes

Al describir las iniciativas de aplicación de la ley de inmigración, la administración Trump ha declarado que su enfoque es expulsar a los extranjeros criminales que ponen en peligro la seguridad pública. Esta preocupación es ampliamente compartida. No hay discusión con esto. Sin embargo, la necesidad de una aplicación justa de la ley de inmigración y la obligación del gobierno de llevarla a cabo deben abordarse de una manera específica, humana y proporcional.

Creciente Reconocimiento de las Contribuciones de los Inmigrantes

También hay un creciente reconocimiento de que muchos, de hecho, la mayoría de los inmigrantes, incluso aquellos que no están legalmente presentes, no son peligrosos, sino pacíficos, respetuosos de la ley y trabajadores contribuyentes a nuestras comunidades y a nuestra economía. El presidente Trump ha reconocido esto en sus recientes comentarios al establecer un pase agrícola para aquellos que trabajan en la industria agrícola.

Preocupación por las estrategias y la retórica que no responden a la dignidad de las personas

Es alarmante ver estrategias de aplicación de la ley que tratan a todos los inmigrantes no autorizados como criminales peligrosos. Es sorprendente que agentes enmascarados y fuertemente armados que no se identifiquen en las actividades de aplicación de la ley. También lo es una aparente falta de debido proceso en los procedimientos de deportación en los últimos meses.

En este sentido, gran parte de la retórica actual es obviamente intencionadamente provocadora. Es impropio de los funcionarios públicos y corrosivo para el bien común hablar del valor disuasorio de los “caimanes y pitones” en las instalaciones de Collier-Dade. No hablo con tanta ligereza con respecto a los delincuentes convictos en las instalaciones del Departamento Correccional de Florida. La decencia exige que recordemos que las personas detenidas son padres y madres, hermanos y hermanas de parientes angustiados. Esta dignidad de cada persona permanece siempre inalterada: es la dignidad de una criatura querida y amada por Dios (Papa León XIV, 16 de mayo de 2025).

Sobre el Centro y las Condiciones

Los observadores señalan que las personas serán retenidas en el nuevo centro en estructuras temporales, en el calor del verano de Florida, hacinadas en espacios confinados, lejos de las instalaciones médicas y posiblemente ubicadas en la trayectoria de los huracanes. Tengo la esperanza de que, para estancias breves, las condiciones sean adecuadas a la dignidad humana.

Preocupación por las necesidades pastorales de los detenidos y del personal

A medida que esta y otras instalaciones planificadas entren en funcionamiento, se debe garantizar que los capellanes y ministros pastorales puedan atender a los detenidos, en su beneficio y en el del personal.

Reiterando un llamado a reformas al sistema de inmigración de EE. UU. y apoyo a los involucrados

Los obispos de los Estados Unidos han sido durante mucho tiempo defensores de reformas a nuestro sistema de inmigración. Los observadores atentos de los desafíos que enfrenta nuestro país no pueden dejar de reconocer que se necesitan reformas serias para preservar la seguridad y la integridad de nuestras fronteras, así como para satisfacer las necesidades laborales, la estabilidad familiar y la capacidad de quienes corren el riesgo de sufrir daños graves para migrar con el debido proceso. La aplicación de la ley debe ser proporcional. Seguimos proponiendo reformas que mejoren nuestro sistema de inmigración, respeten la dignidad humana y promuevan el bien común. Para más información sobre el enfoque de los obispos a las reformas migratorias, haga clic aquí.

Hago un llamado a todas las personas de buena voluntad para que oren por los funcionarios de nuestro gobierno, por los que están bajo custodia de inmigración y sus familias, por los que trabajan en la aplicación de la ley, y por la justicia y la prosperidad en toda nuestra nación.

Summer camps bring smiles to young faces, and hearts closer to Jesus

Posted on July 10, 2025July 10, 2025 by Bob Reddy

The summer season is a time for family vacations but also summer fun at home. Many children in the Diocese of Venice participate in summer camps where Parishes and Catholic schools offer a chance for faith and fun.

At the forefront of the summer programs is the ongoing Totus Tuus initiative of the Diocese of Venice. The week-long day camps, brought to the Diocese in 2022 by Bishop Frank J. Dewane, are taking place at different Parishes throughout the Diocese each week for students entering grades 1 – 6, as well as for middle school and high school students entering grades 7 – 12. Three missionary teams are leading the campers.

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. They also learn about the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary.

In the evenings, the older students participate in instruction, small group discussions, quiet meditation and prayer. One evening includes participation in Adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament and the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

In the first five weeks, the program has taken place at 12 Parishes, with the most recent camps being held the week of July 6-11, 2025, at St. Cecilia Parish in Fort Myers, and jointly at Our Lady of Light and St. John XXIII Parishes, both in Fort Myers. Priests and staff have universally expressed how positive the program has been for their entire congregation.

The final two weeks of the program take place at the following Parishes: St. Joseph, Bradenton; Epiphany Cathedral, Venice; Our Lady Queen of Heaven, LaBelle (July 13-18); Our Lady of the Angels, Lakewood Ranch; and St. Peter the Apostle, Naples (July 20-25). Youth are welcome to attend any of the Totus Tuus camps, but registration is requested ahead of time. For more information, please visit Totus Tuus 2025 – Diocese of Venice.

Additional Camp Programs in the Diocese of Venice

Many Parishes also host a Vacation Bible School. This weeklong camp is intended to teach children to love God and thank the Lord for all the wonderful gifts in the world. A typical day includes children learning Bible stories, and then singing and dancing in praise of God. The week concludes with a large celebration and participation in the Mass.

While many teens volunteer at summer camps, Parishes also offer programs to support them through week-long retreats or the participation in regional youth conferences.

Uniquely, St. Michael Parish in Wauchula hosted a series of weekly camps in June. The separate weeks focused on boys, girls, and then teens. Led by the women religious at the Parish, the Servant Sisters of the Virgin of Matara, these camps are full of fun and faith.

Multiple Diocesan Catholic schools hosted STREAM (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Arts and Math) camps. Some covered several weeks for eager students.

Area Catholic high schools hosted a variety of sports camps (soccer, football, basketball, cheerleading and many others). These camps offer a chance for younger children to learn the skills needed to excel in different sports while at the same time having a bit of fun.

Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., hosts three summer programs. In Bonita Springs, the program includes a variety of games and projects giving the children the opportunity to show off their athletic, artistic and other skills. The campers also take a variety of interesting field trips. The camp at Catholic Charities Children’s Center in Fort Myers nurtures the youth by guiding and inspiring them to become lifelong learners, community builders, and individuals dedicated to serving others. Similarly, the camp at Casa San Juan Bosco farmworker community in Arcadia offers a program where children work with crafts, improve their reading skills and of course have fun.

These are just some of the examples of the exciting activities that are taking place for the thousands of young people in the Diocese during the “slow” season. Faith can be fun!

Fort Myers priest dies

Posted on July 10, 2025July 10, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Father Patrick Oliver Toner, Parochial Vicar at the Church of the Resurrection of Our Lord Parish in Fort Myers, passed away July 9, 2025, at the age of 80.

Father Toner was born in 1944 in Trim, County Meath, Ireland, the second child of Patrick and Philomena Toner. After attending St. Francis Franciscan College in Pilltown, County Meath, and the Jesuit Seminary, Milltown Park, Dublin, Ireland, he was ordained to the priesthood on July 16, 1971, in Dublin for the Carmelite Order.

Following his ordination, Father served for the Carmelite Order in Kildare Town, Ireland, as well as at Parishes in Davis, California, and Tampa, Florida.

Father Toner began his priestly ministry in the Diocese of Venice from 1980 to 1984 first at St. Andrew Parish in Cape Coral, before returning to his religious community in Dublin. Father returned to Florida in 1988 and was appointed as Parochial Vicar at the Church of the Resurrection of Our Lord Parish in Fort Myers, where he served for the past 35 years. He was incardinated into the Diocese of Venice in Florida on April 26, 1999.

The funeral arrangements for Father Patrick Toner will be held at the Church of the Resurrection of Our Lord Parish, 8121 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers. Visitation is from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., Friday, July 18, and 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., Saturday, July 19. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m., Saturday July 19.

Please pray for the repose of Father Toner’s soul and the consolation of his family. May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed through the Mercy of God rest in eternal peace.

Three to be ordained to the priesthood Saturday

Posted on July 10, 2025 by Bob Reddy

The Ordination to the Priesthood of Transitional Deacons Joseph Doherty, Jacob Gwynn and Pat Long will take place at 11 a.m., Saturday, July 12, 2025. While Epiphany Cathedral is undergoing reconstruction, the ordination will take place at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, 1301 Center Road, Venice. Bishop Frank J. Dewane is the presiding prelate and encourages all to attend this important moment in the life of the Diocese of Venice.

During the ceremony of Ordination to the Priesthood, Transitional Deacons Doherty, Gwynn and Long will freely present themselves to serve God, the Church and the Bishop of the Diocese of Venice and his successors. They will also make a renewed commitment to celibacy and promise obedience.

In addition to Bishop Dewane, the Mass will include a number of priests, deacons, religious, as well as family and friends from across the Diocese. The ordination is open to the public and all are encouraged to attend. The Ordination will also be livestreamed at the following link: vimeo.com/event/520312.

Celebrating the Real Presence – 2025 Corpus Christi processions bear witness

Posted on June 26, 2025June 26, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Iris Purchase beamed with joy as she took part in a Corpus Christi procession at Epiphany Cathedral on June 21, 2025, the Vigil of the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ.

“The Lord’s Presence in the Blessed Sacrament brings me great comfort,” Purchase said. “I feel so happy to be able to honor Jesus in this special way, and I pray I will continue to carry out His call for me in my life.”

The Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi) is a celebration of the Eucharist and the Real Presence of Our Lord which is a tradition that dates back centuries and is often marked by a Eucharistic Procession, a “public witness of faith and worship of the Most Blessed Sacrament.”

Instituted in 1264 by Pope Urban IV, Corpus Christi is an important affirmation of our belief that Our Lord is truly sacramentally present in the form of bread and wine. When Our Lord instituted the Eucharist, He said “this IS My Body and this IS My Blood;” not this represents or is symbolic of my body and blood. The Sacrament was defined as “an outward sign” of inward grace given to us by Jesus Christ for our sanctification and salvation.

During the celebration of the 4:30 p.m. Vigil Mass at Epiphany Cathedral, Msgr. Patrick Dubois, Rector of Epiphany Cathedral, spoke about the Solemnity and the corresponding Eucharistic Procession which was taking place in Parishes, cities, towns and villages throughout the world.

“The Body of Christ is honored, not just in churches, but with wonderful processions, outside in the streets decorated with beautiful symbols and banners to celebrate our faith in the Real Presence of Jesus. A presence that is total in His Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity.”

The Corpus Christi procession in Venice began with Msgr. Dubois placing a consecrated host in the monstrance (a sacred vessel that displays the sacred host to the faithful). After a series of prayers before the Most Holy Eucharist the procession, led by altar servers carrying candles and an incensor, began.

Msgr. Dubois carried the monstrance with the Blessed Sacrament, proceeding out of the church under a canopy, to three temporary altars set up in the parking lot of the Cathedral. Participating in the procession were Bishop Frank J. Dewane, priests and deacons of the Cathedral, musicians and members of the choir, as well as hundreds of the faithful.

The canopy serves a dual purpose. The canopy protects the Blessed Sacrament against anything that might fall on it, including rain, creating a sacred space that is reserved for the priest carrying the monstrance. Secondarily, the faithful in the large crowd can locate the Blessed Sacrament at the head of the procession more easily.

At each stop, the monstrance was placed on the temporary altar as a series of Gospel passages were read, and prayers recited. The procession concluded with Benediction in the Santa Maria Chapel as thunderstorms loomed overhead. The faithful were encouraged to remain in the Chapel for Adoration.

Pope Leo XIV explained the spiritual and missionary meaning of the Eucharistic Procession prior to beginning his own Procession in Rome.

“Together, as shepherds and flock, we will feed on the Blessed Sacrament, adore Him, and carry Him through the streets,” the Holy Father said. “In doing so, we will present Him before the eyes, the consciences, and the hearts of the people.”

Pope Leo XIV called on the faithful to “share the bread” – a sign of the gift of divine salvation – to “multiply hope and to proclaim the coming of God’s kingdom” as he presided for the first time as Pope over Mass for the Solemnity of Corpus Christi.

On the Solemnity when the Catholic Church celebrates especially the mystery of the Eucharist Pope Leo declared: “Christ is God’s answer to our human hunger, because His body is the bread of eternal life: Take this and eat of it, all of you!”

The Holy Father traveled to the Basilica of St. John Lateran, his Cathedral as Bishop of Rome, to celebrate the Mass, which was followed by a Eucharistic Procession along the city’s streets to the Basilica of St. Mary Major.

The Solemnity of Corpus Christi is observed two weeks after Pentecost. The Feast of Pentecost, which took place on June 8 this year, is celebrated 50 days after Easter Sunday, and commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles and other followers of Jesus Christ while they were in Jerusalem, as described in the Acts of the Apostles.

In addition, the 2025 Solemnity marks the conclusion of the National Eucharistic Revival, a three-year movement initiated by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops to encourage the faithful to answer the call of Jesus Christ to return to the source and summit of Our Faith – the Real Presence in the Holy Eucharist.

Bishop Dewane advised that the conclusion of the three-year National Eucharistic Revival not be seen as an ending, but a beginning.

“Let us go forth and share the Mystery of the Eucharist with the world,” Bishop Dewane said. “The time is now for us all to be Eucharistic Missionaries, sharing the good news of the Real Presence of Jesus Christ with everyone you know! Non-believers, lapsed Catholics, those on the margins. Bring the saving grace of Christ to the world around you!”

Priestly Ordination July 12 Great Joy! Three men to be ordained to the priesthood

Posted on June 26, 2025June 26, 2025 by Bob Reddy

The Ordination to the Priesthood is considered a pivotal moment in the life of a Diocese, and certainly also in the lives of the men answering that specific, sacred call to serve God.

The Diocese of Venice is blessed this year to have three Transitional Deacons about to enter the priesthood: Deacons Joseph Doherty, Jacob Gwynn, and Pat Long will be ordained to the priesthood on July 12.

The three Deacons have completed their priestly formation and have been called to ordination by Bishop Frank J. Dewane, who will be ordaining prelate. While Epiphany Cathedral is undergoing reconstruction, the ordination will take place at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, July 12, 2025, at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, 1301 Center Road, Venice. The Ordination will also be livestreamed at the following link: vimeo.com/event/520312.

The Catholic Church relies on dedicated men who have committed their lives to serving God.

“An Ordination Mass is a public response to a Call to Holiness,” Bishop Dewane said. “It is a beautiful celebration, and an honor to bear witness to the moment when these dedicated men commit their lives to serving God.”

All are encouraged to attend the Ordination, said Bishop Dewane. “It is important the faithful support each Ordination as Priests are a future link to the continuation of the Sacraments. This is a life-changing, lifelong commitment and Priests, especially new Priests, need the support and encouragement of the faithful.”

Deacon Doherty was born in Pennsylvania, near Philadelphia. After high school, he moved south to attend Ave Maria University where he graduated with a degree in Mathematics and Political Economy and Government. After working in business for several years and earning a master’s degree in systems engineering from Penn State University, he heard more clearly God’s call to holiness and discerned his vocation to the priesthood, completing his philosophy studies at St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary in Boynton Beach and a theology degree at the Gregorian University in Rome. He is currently completing further studies at the Angelicum University in Rome. He has completed summer assignments at several Parishes in the Diocese of Venice, including St. Leo the Great in Bonita Springs, St. William in Naples, and St. Francis Xavier in Fort Myers. He looks forward to walking with people in the challenges of daily life and growing and working with the Catholic community.

“I grew up with the ability to walk to the local Catholic church and found myself spending more and more time there for short visits to the Blessed Sacrament, as a sacristan, and as a volunteer,” Deacon Doherty said.

Deacon Gwynn was born and raised in Palmetto, and was baptized by Father Teofilo Useche, the current pastor of his home parish, Holy Cross. A graduate of Palmetto High School, Deacon Jacob went on to study at St. John Vianney College Seminary and St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary. As a Diocesan seminarian, Deacon Gwynn has had summer assignments at the following Parishes: St. William in Naples, St. Agnes in Naples; Our Lady of Lourdes in Venice; and Our Lady of Grace in Avon Park, St. John XXIII in Fort Myers, as well as serving a pastoral year at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice. He currently serves as a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy and looks forward to becoming a Navy chaplain following five years of priestly ministry in the Diocese of Venice.

“From as early as I can remember, my Catholic faith has been the foundation of my life,” Deacon Gwynn said. “My vocation to the priesthood has been on my heart since I was about four years old. I can still vividly recall being mesmerized by the priesthood.”

The second of six children, Deacon Long grew up in Sarasota, graduating from St. Martha Catholic School and Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School. He earned a degree in marketing from Florida State University and before discerning his vocation to the priesthood, enjoyed a career in marketing in the health care industry. Deacon Long has always been active in the Church, as an Extraordinary Minister of the Eucharist, Religious Education teacher, youth group leader and Pro-Life volunteer. He credits his active participation in the Church to leading him to hear God’s call to the priesthood. Deacon Long completed his theological studies at Pope St. John XXIII Seminary in Weston, Massachusetts. As a seminarian for the Diocese, Deacon Long served summer assignments at Incarnation Parish, St. Martha Parish and St. Thomas More Parish, each in Sarasota. Additionally, he attended the Institute for Priestly Formation at Creighton University in Nebraska, later participating in a Spanish Summer Immersion Program in Guatemala.

“God is so good! We truly have a Heavenly Father that loves us unconditionally,” said Deacon Long. “I am grateful for that love and look forward to deepening and sharing that love with others in Sacrament, Word and community while serving in the Diocese of Venice.”

Seminarians are supported by the Diocese of Venice through the Catholic Faith Appeal, the Knights of Columbus, the Council of Catholic Women and the generosity of individual parishes and parishioners. Parishioners from around the Diocese are encouraged to help support the seminarians in their studies and choice of vocation.

To contribute to the education of the seminarians, send a check to the Diocese of Venice, Office of Vocations, 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34285 or go to www.dioceseofvenice.org/ways-to-give. For more information about the seminarians or Vocations, visit www.venicevocations.org, or contact Diocese of Venice Vocations Director Father Alex Pince at pince@dioceseofvenice.org, or 941-484-9543.

News Briefs for the week of June 27, 2025

Posted on June 26, 2025June 27, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Appointments

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

Father Joseph Than Van Liem, CRM, is relieved of his duties as Parochial Vicar and Chaplain for the Vietnamese Community at St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers effective July 1, 2025, and thus will be returning to his Religious Community.

Father Jimmy Pham, CRM, as Parochial Vicar and Chaplain for the Vietnamese Community at St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers, effective July 1, 2025.

Father Christopher Hathaway, FSSP, is relieved of his duties as Pastor of Christ the King Parish in Sarasota, effective July 10, 2025, and thus will be returning to his Religious Community.

Father Vincent Huber, FSSP, as Administrator of Christ the King Parish in Sarasota, effective July 10, 2025, and thus, is relieved of his duties as Parochial Vicar of Christ the King Parish.

Totus Tuus summer program still going strong

The Diocese of Venice Totus Tuus summer program continues to inspire young people to develop a closer relationship with Jesus Christ. The week-long summer camp program is visiting different Parishes each week and offering camp for students entering grades 1 – 6, as well as for middle school and high school students entering grades 7 – 12. Three missionary teams are leading the campers. In the first four weeks, the program has taken place at 10 Parishes, with the most recent Ave Maria in Ave Maria and St. Jude in Sarasota. Following the Fourth of July holiday, the program resumes at the following: St. Cecilia, Fort Myers; Our Lady of Light, Fort Myers; St. John XXIII, Fort Myers; St. Thomas More, Sarasota (July 6-11); St. Joseph, Bradenton; Epiphany Cathedral, Venice; Our Lady Queen of Heaven, LaBelle (July 13-18); Our Lady of the Angels, Lakewood Ranch; St. Peter the Apostle, Naples (July 20-25). 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, please visit Totus Tuus 2025 – Diocese of Venice.

Diocese and Parish honored for Pro-Life work in Sarasota

The Diocese of Venice Respect Life Office and Incarnation Parish staff in Sarasota were recognized for their work in support of Pro-Life initiatives in the community during the Sarasota Ministerial Association “24^th Anniversary Celebration,” June 19, 2025, at St. Armands Key Lutheran Church in Sarasota. Among those recognized were Tavia Ames, Diocesan Respect Life Director, Father Eric Scanlan, Pastor of Incarnation Parish, Deacon Kevin McKenney, of Incarnation Parish and the board of Sarasota Family Promise, and Lisa Russo, Incarnation Parish secretary. Presenting the honor was Art Reilly, past board chair of Sarasota Medical Pregnancy Center.

Independence Day bike and golf cart parade to be held in Ave Maria

The Knights of Columbus Assembly 3862 of Ave Maria Parish in Ave Maria is hosting is 9th annual “God Bless America: Independence Day Bike and Golf Cart Parade.” The opening ceremony will take place in the Piazza in front of Ave Maria Parish church with the parade, led by fire trucks, immediately following. All are welcome to attend and encouraged to decorate their bicycles, tricycles, golf carts, skateboards, and strollers. The route is approximately 2 miles long, but a shorter route, around the church, is available for younger riders. Light refreshments, including birthday cake for the Nation, will be available at the conclusion of the parade.

Natural Family Planning Introductory Sessions coming

Learn about Natural Family Planning with a free introductory session. The Diocese of Venice supports 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 Tuesday, July 22, Thursday, August 14, Saturday, September 20, and Tuesday, October 21. Choose one that fits your schedule! The online sessions are free, but registration is required. Register at bit.ly/SGIntroSession. For more information, visit stgiannacenter.com, or with questions, contact Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseovenice.org, or 941-486-4754.

Summertime and the Giving is Easy Appeal

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 and leave a positive impact in our community. The Catholic Charities “Summertime and the Giving is Easy Appeal” is asking for your support. The giving is easy! Your gift will make a positive impact on our less fortunate brothers and sisters. 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.

Ave Maria Youth Conference July 11-13

The 2025 Ave Maria University “Proclaim” Youth Conference is July 11-13. The theme for the Conference is “But as for you, go and proclaim the Kingdom of God” (Luke 9:60). The Conference will include talks from Sister Maria Jose Socias, SCTJM, Michael Gormley, Mari Pablo, and Father Joseph Lugalambi. Music will be by Epic Music Ministries. The Conference will include Mass, Adoration, praise and worship, lodging, meals, t-shirts, a pizza night, and more. Registration is $195. per person. For more information or to register, please visit aveconferences.com/.

Theology on Tap June 24 in Sarasota

Theology on Tap is a program for young adults in their 20s and 30s, providing an opportunity to explore faith topics in a relaxed social setting at Oak & Stone, 5405 University Parkway, University Park. The next gathering is July 24, 2025, and will feature a presentation from Robert Massey, Youth and Young Adult Coordinator at St. Agnes Parish in Naples. His presentation is titled, “Teens, Tech, and the Tabernacle: Building Faith Today.” The evening begins with food and refreshments at 7 p.m., with the presentations and discussions about the Catholic Faith beginning at 8 p.m. Please email Andres Prias at prias@dioceseofvenice.org with any questions.

SAVE THE DATE – Together in Holiness Marriage Enrichment Conference Oct. 18

Bishop Frank J. Dewane invites all Catholic married couples to join him at the Diocese’s fifth annual Marriage Enrichment Conference on Oct. 18, 2025, at St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers. Engaged couples are also welcome! The Marriage Conference, “Family, A School of Love,” presents a unique opportunity to share a day dedicated to prayer, conversation, and reflection on the sacred vocation of marriage together with your spouse. Grow together in holiness and receive guidance and tips for how to strengthen your marriage and form your children in the Catholic faith. Registration is now open. This event will sell out, so register early! To learn more, and to register, visit www.togetherinholiness.org/venice. Questions? Contact Jim Gontis, gontis@dioceseovenice.org, 941-486-4754.

Children Throughout the World Need Our Help!

The Trump Administration is terminating all but two of Catholic Relief Services’ school feeding programs, eliminating a daily school meal for close to 800,000 children in 11 countries beginning in July. For many, this was their only meal of the day. These terminations aren’t just broken agreements with CRS. They are broken promises to children, to farmers, to entire communities. Please ask your members of Congress to urge the Administration to reverse these terminations. Visit https://www.crs.org/act/mcgovern-dole to be heard.

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. Know that 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 either English or Spanish. All contacts are confidential.

“Summertime and the Giving is Easy” – 2025 Catholic Charities campaign seeks to help those in need

Posted on June 20, 2025June 20, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Every day, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., serves the most vulnerable population by feeding, housing, empowering, and encouraging all in need.

Now, you can help Catholic Charities by donating to the annual “Summertime and the Giving is Easy” campaign.

The Campaign gets back to the basics by reminding the generous faithful about key areas where Catholic Charities assists people throughout the 10-county Diocese of Venice region. Many people live without adequate food, shelter, education and support. Catholic Charities offers people in need in Southwest Florida the help that brings about real change in their lives, and provides hope for the future.

Each year Catholic Charities serves more than 100,000 individuals and families regardless of race, nationality or creed. The lingering effects of Hurricanes Ian (2022), Helene and Milton (2024) and rising costs of necessary items continue to put a strain on the resources of people throughout the region. Each day, Catholic Charities works hard to make a difference. A total of 93 cents of each dollar donated to Catholic Charities goes directly to more than 30 programs and services which ranks the charity among the most efficient in the country.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane said the support of Catholic Charities by the faithful of Southwest Florida is inspirational and crucial to ensuring “our brothers and sisters in Christ continue to receive the help and support they need. Catholic Charities does a tremendous job in providing programs that not only help in a crisis but assist in improving daily the lives of those they reach. Your support is appreciated and critical!”

Christopher Root, Chief Executive Officer of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, says all donations, great or small, enable Catholic Charities to continue to help the most vulnerable in Southwest Florida.

“At Catholic Charities, we believe summer should be a season of light, renewal, and hope, but for many in our community, it brings greater hardship,” Root said. “Power bills rise with soaring temperatures, children are home from school and without access to regular meals, and families face higher food and childcare costs at a time when resources are already stretched thin.”

“We often take for granted the necessities that are basic rights,” Root said. “The annual Catholic Charities ‘Summertime and the Giving is Easy’ campaign reminds us that many people in our communities of Southwest Florida do not have the essentials required to live a healthy life. Please consider a donation for those who lack food, shelter, education and support. You can make a real difference!”

Whether your passion is education, food security for children and families, preventing homelessness, or helping the vulnerable, please consider providing your support to the “Summertime and the Giving is Easy” campaign knowing your money will reach those in need.

Sunshine & Service: Make this Summer Matter

Young people assisted by Catholic Charities have a significantly increased chance of developing into resilient and capable adults. Investing in the well-being and growth of youth empowers them to overcome challenges and thrive. Each donation counts! A donation of $6,500 provides a notebook computer for 10 children; $1,000 gives a backpack full of school supplies for 10 children; $500 provides a new twin mattress, frame, and bedding for a child; $125 supplies diapers, wipes, and hygiene supplies for a mother and child for one month.

Catch the Summer Wave of Compassion

Catholic Charities strives to create a better tomorrow – a tomorrow where children and adults can experience hope, recovery, and wellness. Mental health counseling offers the tools necessary to overcome challenges. Various levels of support can make a real difference, such as $6,400 provides life-skills classes for 22 moms for one year; $2,800 allows a child mental health counseling for an entire school year; $1,700 provides a homeless mom with 12 sessions of counseling; $600 helps a survivor of human trafficking with two months of mental health counseling.

Sow the Seed of Hope All Summer Long

Homelessness is a complex problem that affects the entire community. Providing stable and permanent housing is the first critical step towards assisting individuals and families to achieve better lives. Support of $10,000 helps maintain five transitional houses for homeless families on their journey to self-sufficiency; $3,900 will house a disadvantaged family with children for two months; $1,250 houses a survivor of human trafficking for one month; $75 provides a laundry basket filled with cleaning products to a family transitioning to a new home.

Nourish Hope this Summer

Food insecurity affects 1 in 5 children in Florida, but with your support, Catholic Charities can make a difference by providing food to children, families, and seniors in the community. Join together to combat hunger and end food insecurity in our region. A donation of $5,000 provides 2,000 hot meals at the Casa Maria Soup Kitchen in Immokalee. Another $1,600 purchases a pallet of black beans, enough to feed 500 families; $50 provides 150 children weekend meals when school meals are not available; and $100 feeds a family of four for a week at food pantry locations in Immokalee, Arcadia, Clewiston, Naples, and Fort Myers.

Catholic Charities CEO Root said because of the generosity of supporters, Catholic Charities is able to provide not only meals for the hungry, but also shelter from life’s storms and hope for families in need. “As Scripture reminds us, ‘Whoever refreshes others will be refreshed’ (Proverbs 11:25). This summer, we invite you to be that refreshing presence to give, volunteer, and help us continue to bring comfort and care to those who need it most.”

The “Summertime and the Giving is Easy” campaign is a chance to brighten the future for those who come to Catholic Charities for help. Your gift, combined with others, will make a positive impact on our less fortunate brothers and sisters in Christ.

How to help

Online – https://catholiccharitiesdov.org/summertime

By mail – Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., “Summertime and the Giving is Easy,” 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34285

By phone – 941-488-5581

Service locations

Arcadia, Bonita Springs, Bradenton, Clewiston, Fort Myers, Immokalee, Naples, North Port, Port Charlotte, Sarasota, and Venice.

Programs and Services

Affordable housing; after-school programs, anti-human trafficking; case management services; clothing distribution, counseling services, disaster response and recovery, career development and empowerment, emergency shelter; farm worker housing, financial assistance, supplement assistance program (SNAP), housing for vulnerable populations, homeless prevention, housing for homeless families, immigration services; infant/toddler supplies, rapid-rehousing, residential programs for mothers and children, senior housing, senior services, soup kitchen, summer youth program, transitional housing, veterans services, and youth mentoring program.

Diocesan Catholic schools continue to be beacons in the community

Posted on June 20, 2025June 20, 2025 by Bob Reddy

The recent conclusion of the 2024-2025 academic year at the 15 Diocese of Venice Catholic schools was a banner year, as more than 6,500 students received an education that was not only based on faith and prayer life but serves as a beacon in a world full of distractions.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane, speaking during the recording of the upcoming Relevant Radio “Witnessing Faith with Bishop Dewane” program said, “Catholic education provides not only that faith component and a prayer life but is also so important for young people as a support and as a guide. As various topics come up, they are hearing the context that the Church sets that issue in. This is a reinforcement of moral values – what society calls ethics. The first and best place these values form is in the home, but sometimes there needs to be a supplemental or complementary approach, that is what the Diocese offers.”

In a greater sense, Bishop Dewane explained how Catholic education provides a shared experience of living the faith – wherein Catholic school students are surrounded by not only teachers but peers who also share the same value system – a powerful beacon as they sort through the clutter in their lives.

Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocesan Superintendent of Catholic Education, explained how Catholic schools offer the best value system in the world, providing a world view that can’t be found anywhere else.

“That is why we educate and form the whole person – not just the brain. Truly the head and heart – unapologetically looking for them to be disciples of Christ,” Father Belmonte continued. “We want our young people to pray, become friends with Christ, and to bring that into their adult life.”

The education of students in Diocesan Catholic schools is important work, Father Belmonte added. Done in partnership with families, where the students learn many of their lessons, Catholic education is in the business of teaching students to make the right decisions so that they can do the good that is needed, not only by their families and themselves, but by society.

Each school offers a comprehensive STREAM (science, technology, religion, engineering, art, and math) learning model which is combined with the Diocesan curriculum called, “The Gifts of Christ: Truth, Beauty, Goodness, Affability, Fortitude, Humility, and Prudence,” creating students of good moral character equipped to succeed in the world of today. This program has a strong robotics component as well.

Annually, a Diocesan Catholic Schools Devotional Project offers leadership opportunities in the middle schools as junior catechists are trained on the annual devotion and then teach their peers on the topic. The method is engaging, captivating and fun, explained Jennifer Falestiny, Diocesan Schools Director of Curriculum.

“This project offers high quality content that is relevant to all students,” Falestiny said.

John Gulley, Principal of St. Francis Xavier Catholic School in Fort Myers, echoed Falestiny’s assessment of the Devotional Project, saying that having the junior catechists present lessons has a big impact on the other students as they learn to take ownership of their faith and share it with others.

When questioned about the challenges facing modern Catholic educators, Gulley explained how students face a “fire hose” of unfiltered misinformation/disinformation on a large scale because “it comes in without filters. The best response is our Church. Jesus is Jesus, and the lessons of the Gospel are consistent. It lets us talk about where we come from. As educators, that is approaching the problem from a beautiful place. We are uniquely equipped to help these students and families because we are capable of fulfilling their dreams through the love of Jesus Christ.”

With more than 6,500 students, the Diocese of Venice has been recognized, in a national study done by Boston College, as the fastest growing Catholic school system in the country during the past 5 years.

In May 2025, 481 men and women graduated from the four Diocesan Catholic high schools. The 2025 graduating class is the largest in Diocesan history. The students leave their respective schools with impressive accomplishments, such as completing more than 58,000 community service hours, and earning more than $40 million in scholarship offers. The graduates have been accepted to many of the top colleges and universities in the country with many going on to military service academies and the Ivy League. Most notably, 30% are going on to Catholic college and universities.

To hear the June 27 Relevant Radio “Witnessing Faith with Bishop Dewane,” please tune in at 8:30 a.m. on 106.7 FM and 1410 AM in Fort Myers and 93.3 FM and 1660 AM in Naples. “Witnessing Faith with Bishop Dewane” can also be heard anytime at www.dioceseofvenice.org/ourbishop.

For more information about Diocese of Venice Catholic schools, please visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/catholicschools.

Solemnity of Sacred Heart of Jesus celebrated June 27

Posted on June 20, 2025June 20, 2025 by Bob Reddy

The Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is an essential part of who we are as Catholics and what is passed along to future generations.

Celebrated by the Universal Church on June 27, 2025, on the Friday after the Corpus Christi octave, the Solemnity “reminds the faithful that Jesus is our friend for life,” said Bishop Frank J. Dewane. “The Lord wants us to be friends. The Sacred Heart of Jesus challenges us to overcome secularism, materialism, and social injustice. It is adopted as a way to address the love of Christ for the poor, the least among us. It is a modern way of thinking.”

In terms of secularism, where society tries to exclude religious viewpoints in public discussions, Bishop Dewane said that is precisely when we must speak out, because it is who we are as Catholics, called to reflect the light of Christ in the world.

Bishop Dewane reflected that this Solemnity has had a significant impact in the areas of art and culture. “You can find it in the stained glass of churches throughout the world. It is always there, depicting Jesus’ flaming heart on the outside of His body – a physical manifestation of His love for us all.”

The modern devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus came in 1673 from St. Margaret Marie Alacoque, a cloistered nun and mystic of the Visitation order. She had private visions and promoted devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, all aflame with love, as the healing remedy for a world full of cold hearts and broken hearts.

During her visions, Sister Margaret Mary learned ways to venerate the Sacred Heart of Christ. These devotions included the concept of a Holy Hour on Thursdays, the creation of the feast of the Sacred Heart after Corpus Christi, and the reception of the Eucharist on the first Friday of every month.

In 1856, after lobbying by French Bishops on behalf of the feast of the Sacred Heart, Pope Pius IX designated the Friday following the feast of Corpus Christi as the feast of the Sacred Heart for the entire Latin-rite Church. On May 25, 1899, Pope Leo XIII promulgated the encyclical Annum Sacrum, which consecrated the entire world to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

The Diocese of Venice is blessed to have two Parishes named for the Sacred Heart, one in Bradenton, the other in Punta Gorda. Each serves their growing communities imbued with the spirituality of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

In addition, the Sacred Heart of Jesus will be the focus for the annual Diocese of Venice Catholic School Devotional Project for the 2025-2026 school year.