Remember to Vote No on 4! – Still time to Defeat Amendment 4!

Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024, and this year it is particularly important that everyone votes.

The election has many keys races but most importantly is the dire need to defeat Amendment 4, an extreme and dangerous proposed amendment to the Florida Constitution that would radically expand access to abortion.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane, along with the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops, have been tireless in their efforts to get the word out about just how dangerous Amendment 4 is. The Amendment is misleading, and if passed, would be an immediate danger not only to full-term babies but also to mothers and girls.

A new commercial has been released which reminds us that Amendment 4 removes ALL restrictions on abortions, allowing for abortions at any time, for any reason, including extremely late-term abortions, when the baby can feel pain. This is radical, extreme, and unnecessary! Follow this link to view the Vote No on 4 video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7mtycxoW43c

If Amendment 4 passes and becomes part of our state constitution:

  • Florida will be one of the most pro-abortion states in the nation.
  • Minors will be able to obtain abortions without parental consent!
  • Taxpayer-funded abortion will follow, given that a woman will have a constitutional right to an abortion “without delay.”
  • Pop-up abortion centers without doctors will develop, as the state can no longer regulate abortions, or require a doctor’s involvement.

Here’s the GOOD NEWS! We can still DEFEAT AMENDMENT 4! BUT WE NEED YOUR VOTE!

“A new poll has Amendment 4 on the brink of passing, indicating that 54 % will vote yes,” said Bishop Frank J. Dewane. “However, a 60% super majority is required to pass this dangerous constitutional amendment. It is clear that there is still time to defeat Amendment 4, with YOUR VOTE!  Don’t leave things up to chance. Exercise your own constitutional right – and your responsibility as a Christian – to have your voice heard! Make sure your friends and family vote, too. Let’s work together to defeat this dangerous pro-abortion constitutional amendment and VOTE NO ON 4! There is still time. May God bless you abundantly and may the Holy Spirit guide you in your important election decisions!”

To learn more about Amendment 4, please visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/offices/offices-departments/respect-life/amendment4/.

 

Saints and Souls a focus in November

During the month of November, the Church remembers in a particular way all those who have died, as She celebrates the Solemnity of All Saints and that of All Souls’ Day.

All Saints’ Day is celebrated each year on Nov. 1, a day on which we honor all the Saints in heaven, both those known and unknown. All Saints’ Day is a Holy Day of Obligation, meaning all Catholics are required to attend Mass on that day. This is followed by the Feast of All Souls on Nov. 2. The month of November is also known as the Month of All Souls in the Universal Church.

All Saints’ Day and the Feast of All Souls were the topic of the Oct. 25, 2024, “Witnessing Faith with Bishop Dewane” show on Relevant Radio, when Bishop Frank J. Dewane was joined by special guests, Father John Belmonte, SJ, who is the Diocese of Venice Superintendent of Catholic Education, and Jim Gontis, Diocesan Director of Evangelization. The monthly program is available at https://dioceseofvenice.org/our-bishop/relevant-radio-podcasts/.

St. Teresa of Kolkata is seen in this undated photo. (CNS photo/courtesy MotherTeresaMovie.com)

Bishop Dewane shared that All Saints’ Day, together with All Souls’ Day, stems from the belief that the living are linked to those in Heaven. It is vital in Christianity to remember the deceased, especially those who were faithful during their lifetimes.

“During this special remembrance in the Church, we harken back to those men and women who lived particularly good lives according to the teachings of Jesus Christ,” Bishop Dewane said. “The saints are an important part of Salvation history. This is a time to remember the role the saints play in giving a particular witness to the Lord during their lifetime, particularly as part of their family and society. Christianity has always held up saints in how we should live our lives. Importantly, we need to follow those footsteps and strive to do the same.”

Responding to the oft-heard criticism that Catholics worship the saints, Bishop Dewane said that is not true, but that we ask the saints to intercede on our behalf due to the good lives they led and due to the recognition of their spiritual strength to intercede with the Lord.

The Bishop said he personally prays to his namesake, St. Francis of Assisi, as well as to St. Mother Teresa, St. John Paul II, and St. Gregory the Great.

Father Belmonte added that is through the Most Holy Eucharist that we are connected to the saints.

“We remember our beloved dead and the saints at that sacred moment,” Father explained. “We pray for them. They pray for us. So, we are united in that most Sacred moment. We worship God but venerate saints in their own holiness while also asking for the intercession for our own needs. It comes together at the Mass in beautiful ways.”

It is during the Mass, that the Church recognizes all the Apostles, and the great saints of the Church, which is the Church truly praying together united with heaven, Father Belmonte added. “That emphasizes the importance of worship and prayer but is veneration, not worshiping the saints.”

Gontis said that in official Church documents the saints are defined as intercessors and models. “They are models to show us how to live and they are powerful prayers for us – God’s Hall of Famers,” Gontis said. “We worship God alone.”

Speaking on the Commemoration of All Souls, Gontis said on this day, the Church remembers and prays for the souls of the faithful departed, especially for those still undergoing purification in purgatory as they await their heavenly rewards.

Purgatory, which is a concept with strong Biblical backing, is mistakenly believed to be a middle ground between heaven and hell, Gontis said.

“It is a vestibule to heaven – the front porch to the mansion,” Gontis continued. “Their salvation is guaranteed. They died sanctified, in a state of holiness, but they still need to be cleansed to be perfectly purified. They wouldn’t even feel right going into heaven until that is taken care of. It is a teaching and reality of both God’s justice and mercy. Our prayers can help them to get to heaven sooner. They can pray for us but they can’t pray for themselves.”

Bishop Dewane said we pray for the souls of those who have died before us – those who have fallen asleep in the Lord – at every Mass.

“Mass is an important time when we celebrate and honor the Communion of Saints,” the Bishop said. “Saints serve the Lord by praying for people. We can pray for people in purgatory so they can advance to a life with the Lord. Some don’t like that because we have to think about dying, but it is addressed in every Mass. Death is part of life.”

Joining in the conversation, Father Belmonte spoke about a devotion of St. Gertrude the Great, a medieval saint and Benedictine abbess. It is said that if anyone learned and recited her simple prayer, a thousand souls would be saved from purgatory.

The “Prayer of St. Gertrude: Releasing Souls from Purgatory” is presented below:

Eternal Father, I offer You the most Precious Blood of Your Divine Son, Jesus, in union with the Masses said throughout the world today, for all the Holy Souls in Purgatory, for sinners everywhere, for sinners in the Universal Church, those in my own home, and within my family. Amen.

Father shared that he once had a student who recited the prayer more than a thousand times, keeping tracked each time he said the prayer in a notebook. “It was through this young man that a million souls were saved.”

During November, it is encouraged to have a Mass offered for the intention of the soul of someone who has died. In addition, an indulgence is granted to the faithful who visit a cemetery and pray, even if only mentally, for the dead. This indulgence is applicable only to the souls in purgatory. This indulgence is a plenary one from Nov. 1 through Nov. 8 and can be gained on each one of these days.

Bishop encourages students to “pray always”

Diocese of Venice Catholic School students have been given an assignment by Bishop Frank J. Dewane: to be young men and women of prayer.

It is during the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass at Diocesan Catholic schools when Bishop Dewane offers his encouragement to the students, explaining, “It is Jesus who calls you to be young men and women of prayer, not just me. The Lord wants us to communicate with Him. You and I communicate with Jesus Christ through prayer. I don’t ask of you something I don’t think you can do. Are you able to be young men and women of prayer? Can you do that this year?”

An echo of “Yes!!!” was the enthusiastic response at each school.

Explaining why he thought prayer was so important, the Bishop said that each time Jesus made important decisions, He went and prayed to God, His Father. Each of us needs to take the time to reach out to the Lord and to be a person of prayer. When asked by how often one should pray, Jesus always responded: “Pray always.” Words all should live by, the Bishop added.

“Right before Jesus was going to die, He goes to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray. He knew what was going to happen, He prayed for the assistance from God, to have the grace, the strength and the courage to endure. He received that strength by talking to God, the Father,” Bishop Dewane explained.

“You will find these things also when reaching out to the Lord in prayer. Don’t leave it to somebody else to pray. Do it in the morning, the evening, before meals, before bed. Most importantly, come to Mass each Sunday, because the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is the greatest prayer the Universal Church has to offer,” the Bishop concluded.

Following each primary school Mass, the Bishop speaks with the eighth graders, encouraging them to be the leaders of their respective schools and also promoting their attendance to a local Diocesan Catholic high school next year. Bishop Dewane also fields questions from the students before having a group picture taken.

Each academic year, Bishop Dewane celebrates Mass at each of the 15 Diocesan Catholic Schools as often as his schedule allows, usually in the fall and again during Lent. The initial Masses this year were at St. Martha Catholic School and St. Mary Academy on Oct. 23, 2024, on Oct. 28 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic School in Fort Myers and St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral, then on Oct. 30 in Naples at St. Ann Catholic School and St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School. Additional Masses are scheduled through December.

News Briefs for the week of November 1, 2024

Equestrian Order celebrates Feast Day in shadow of war in Holy Land

Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated Mass for the Knights and Dames of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem on Oct. 29, 2024, at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Venice. The Order is entrusted with the mission to serve as witnesses to the Christian faith, and as supporters and protectors of the Church and the living Christian communities in the Holy Land. Bishop Dewane praised their commitment to the people of the Holy Land, which is needed now more than ever as war continues in the region. The annual Mass is celebrated as close as is possible to Oct. 25, the Feast of Our Lady of Palestine, the Order’s Patroness.

 School volleyball teams wins championship

Congratulations to the Girl’s Varsity Volleyball Team from St. Joseph Catholic School in Bradenton on winning 1st Place at the Championship Playoffs for the Florida Suncoast League on Oct. 28, 2024. These athletes did an amazing job putting in hard work throughout the season and finishing the season on top.

 Faith & Ale Gathering in Fort Myers Nov. 7

Men are welcome to the Faith & Ale Gathering at 6 p.m., Nov. 7, 2024. as Sam Blair speaks about “The Word, The Flesh & The Devil.” This former Navy Seals Lieutenant Commander will speak at the Church of the Resurrection of Our Lord, 8121 Cypress View Drive, Fort Myers. Register and learn more at www.FaithAndAle.com or Damian Hanley at damianpatrick@gmail.com.

Vocation Awareness Weekend Nov. 8-10

St. John Vianney College Seminary in Miami is hosting a Vocation Awareness Weekend from Friday, November 8 at 7:00 p.m. to Sunday, November 10 at 12:00 p.m. This seminary visit is open to young men, ages 17 and up and is an engaging time of prayer, talks, sports, and other fun activities with the seminarians and priests. There is no cost and transportation is provided. To register, please contact Lina Johnson at johnson@dioceseofvenice.org or call 941-486-4720.

Veterans Day Ball on Nov. 8

The annual Ave Maria Veterans Day Ball – A Celebration for All, will take place at 6 p.m., Nov. 8, 2024, at the Del Webb Grand Hall in Ave Maria. The evening includes a cocktail hour, keynote address by Vice Admiral Charles W. Moore Jr., U.S. Navy Ret., dinner and dancing. Tickets are $125 per person and are available at www.avemariakofc.org/veterans-day-ball.

20th Hispanic Fall Festival in Sarasota on Nov. 9

St. Jude Parish, 3930 17th Street, Sarasota, is hosting its 20th Hispanic Fall Festival from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Nov. 9, 2024. There will be a fun day of live music, food from many Latin American countries, folklore dance, games for the kids and family entertainment. The proceeds of this event will go to the building of a New Church. For more information, please call 941-955-3934.

2024 Diocesan Youth Rally Nov. 16

All students, grades 9 to 12, are invited to attend this year’s Diocesan Youth Rally from 12:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, at the Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center, 75 Taylor Street, Punta Gorda. The theme for this year’s Rally is “Ignite!” This is a day dedicated to faith, fellowship, and fun, where all come together to have hearts ignited by the Lord Jesus, so that He can draw each person present into a deeper relationship with Himself. The Diocesan Youth Rally will feature inspiring talks, uplifting music, and opportunities to connect with other youth from across the Diocese. Registration is through the Parish. Please contact Andres Prias, Youth and Young Adult Outreach Director, Diocese of Venice Department of Evangelization prias@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-484-9543 for further information.

Kristallnacht Commemoration Nov. 17

The Catholic-Jewish Dialogue of Collier County (CJD) invites the community to its annual commemorative service of Kristallnacht or “Night of Broken Glass,” which historians consider the beginning of the Holocaust. The free public event takes place at 2:30 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024, at St. John the Evangelist Parish, 625 111th Ave. N., Naples. The guest speaker is John Koenigsberg, who will share his experiences as a young boy during the Holocaust. At the age of 5, Koenigsberg was brought to the home of a Catholic family by the Dutch Resistance and hid from the Nazis for two years. Kristallnacht recounts the attacks on Jewish communities throughout Germany on Nov. 9-10, 1938. The Kristallnacht commemorative event memorializes the six million Jews who were exterminated during the Holocaust. The event is sponsored by CJD, the Diocese of Venice in Florida, the Jewish Community Relations Council of the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, GenShoah of SWFL, and the Holocaust Museum & Janet G. and Harvey D. Cohen Education Center. Please register at www.jewishnaples.org. A reception will follow the talk.

Fall Festival in Immokalee Nov. 27 to Dec. 1

Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, 207 S. 9th St., Immokalee, is hosting a Fall Festival daily from Nov. 27 to Dec. 1, 2024. Featuring modern midways, the festival will include rides, food, raffles, and more. There will be fun for young and old alike. For more details, please call 239-657-2666.

 

Many continue to struggle in wake of Milton – Parishes mostly spared, much work needs to be done

The winds, rain and storm surge have long passed since Hurricane Milton struck the Diocese of Venice on Oct. 9, 2024, but the recovery process is only just beginning.

Most Diocesan Parishes and Catholic schools were spared severe impacts but there are clear exceptions, most notably Our Lady of Mercy Parish in Boca Grande; St. Bernard Parish in Holmes Beach; St. Joseph Parish and Catholic School in Bradenton; and Sacred Heart Parish in Punta Gorda.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane has been at the forefront in ensuring the response to Hurricane Milton continues to be effective throughout the Diocese.

Once access to Boca Grande was possible, the true extent of the damage done to Our Lady of Mercy Parish was evident. More than five feet of storm surge swept through the property, inundating the church, Boca Grande Preschool and the rectory. The new Parish Hall was spared damage having been built in 2022 to a higher elevation.

The Parish was still recovering from storm surge damage during Hurricane Helene in late September and the mitigation of that water was completed before Milton’s arrival. Unfortunately, Milton’s water was several feet higher. In the church, the water reached the top of the pews and spread into the sanctuary. The preschool, where drywall had been cut following Helene, now has all walls cut to the bare studs.

In addition, Milton’s water reached the rectory. While the water did not reach the flooring, it did damage the garage and crawlspace where various utilities were located.

Father Anthony Hewitt, Pastor of Our Lady of Mercy, said the celebration of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass returned on Oct. 13, with daily Mass taking place at noon instead of 8 a.m., as access to the island community is restricted. It is deemed too hazardous to stay in the community as there is no running water. Early each morning there are long lines of traffic going through checkpoints. This is occurring even though access is restricted to residents, business owners, recovery workers, and contractors.

Working under the direction of staff from the Diocese of Venice Buildings and Construction Office, contractors have removed all the debris from the church, preschool and rectory as part of the mitigation work. How best to proceed with the reconstruction of each building will be determined in the coming days and weeks.

Huge piles of debris, or dumpsters, stand in front of each residence and business in the community, a testament to the force of the water.

“The parishioners, as well as the community, are all turning to God in this difficult time and the comfort and strength from the Holy Eucharist has been a tremendous blessing,” Father Hewitt said.

The same can be said in many other area island communities.

St. Bernard Parish in Holmes Beach had additional damage to the rectory and Parish Hall during Milton, as the area was also still recovering from Hurricane Helene. The latest storm damage set back the progress of mitigation and reconstruction efforts by several weeks, if not longer, as resources for the cleaning and rebuilding are being stretched to the limit by the widespread destruction caused by back-to-back hurricanes.

Diocesan Building and Construction Director Joe Rego said the Diocese was well prepared to cope with the impacts of the hurricanes, but the recovery process takes time.

At Sacred Heart Parish in Punta Gorda, the mitigation work to remove storm surge water from the Parish Center and rectory is progressing well. The same is true at St. Joseph Parish and Catholic school in Bradenton where the damage was limited to roofs and some water leaks. Each of the roofs has been temporarily sealed while repairs await plans and contractors.

While some of the focus has been on the damage caused by Hurricane Milton, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., is focusing on the human impact of the storm, the thousands who have lost homes or jobs because of the flooding. These include service workers at restaurants, businesses, hotels, resorts, and more.

Catholic Charities very quickly set up several different points of distribution in Palmetto, Sarasota, Fort Myers and Bonita Springs. These sites allowed people to drive through and receive food, water and other disaster supplies.

The Catholic Charities Disaster Response Team also includes case management services which are being offered for survivors of the disaster with the goal to meet an individual’s or family’s immediate need. Many are in need of permanent housing, rental assistance or utility payments. This effort also assists those in need to cope with changes while home repairs are being made and helps them access available resources.

In the first 10 days following Hurricane Milton, Catholic Charities assisted more than 7,000 people. This help included water and food, as well as emergency financial assistance.

In the wake of Hurricane Milton, the Diocese of Venice has activated its Disaster Relief Fund to aid in the necessary repairs to churches and schools. To support this fund, you can visit www.dioceseofvenice.org/disasterrelief.

To learn how you can help support the disaster relief efforts of Catholic Charities, please visit www.catholiccharitiesdov.org.

 

Parish and University host pro-life rally to defeat Amendment 4

Ave Maria Parish and Ave Maria University hosted an Oct. 20, 2024, rally in opposition to Amendment 4, an extreme and dangerous proposed amendment to the Florida Constitution that would radically expand access to abortion.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane was among the featured speakers who described how the wording of Amendment 4 uses misleading language and if passed, the new law would be an immediate danger not only to full-term babies but also to mothers and girls.

Bishop Dewane lauded university officials for hosting the rally, which took place in the Field House before continuing with a rosary walk through the campus to the Parish church.

About 1,000 took part in the event where everyone was to reach out to 10 others about the dangers of Amendment 4, encouraging them to Vote NO on 4!

“Voting NO on 4 is a positive because it is crucial to saving lives,” Bishop Dewane said. “This amendment would embed within the Constitution of Florida unregulated abortion, establishing an unlimited right to abortion, making Florida one of the most pro-abortion states in the nation. Amendment 4 goes dangerously beyond even what Roe v. Wade included. It is extreme and it is unnecessary in the State of Florida. There is simply no need to expand an already expansive abortion law within Florida. I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to be a part of something like that. So, we have to stand up and Vote NO on 4!”

Sharon Lavesque, Respect Life Ministry Coordinator for Ave Maria Parish, was encouraged by the crowd of supporters at the rally, because each was there as part of God’s plan.

“We do not do it alone, for together we can do much,” Lavesque said. “We are the army of pro-lifers united in faith and determination to witness battle. We are the warriors for the babies, the moms and the girls. The defeat of Amendment 4 will give hope to other states. Now is the time God has put us here for this fight. Together we can stand for the life of the unborn and make a difference in the world.”

Father David Vidal, Pastor of Ave Maria Parish, offered the opening prayer, while other presenters included Mexican producer and actor Eduardo Verástegui; U.S. Rep. Mario Díaz-Balart (R-Florida); State Rep. Lauren Melo (R-Naples); Logan Church, National Political Director of Catholic Vote, and Manual Milanés, an “Ave Maria hero” who saved the lives of a mother and her four children by taking a bullet in the chest. In addition, also present were members of Doctors Against Amendment 4.

To learn more about Amendment 4, please visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/offices/offices-departments/respect-life/amendment4/.

2024 Marriage Conference inspires couples

The Diocese of Venice, “Together in Holiness” Marriage Conference, presented in partnership with the Diocese Evangelization Office and the St. John Paul II Foundation, took place Oct. 19, 2024, at Church of the Resurrection of Our Lord Parish in Fort Myers, was a great success.

More than 100 couples, representing 29 Parishes, took part in this event which was intended to allow couples to grow together in holiness, learn to form their children in the Catholic Faith, enjoy a day of quality time with their spouse, and witness dynamic presentations. The day offered couples an opportunity to reconnect with their spouse through conversation and prayer during a day focused on helping them live their marriage vocation more faithfully and fruitfully. Many married couples brought their families, with more than 60 children enrolled in childcare throughout the day. In addition to married couples, many engaged couples also participated.

The day included the Mass, celebrated by Bishop Frank J. Dewane, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and the availability of the Sacrament of Reconciliation. At the conclusion of the Mass, Bishop Dewane offered the couples a special marriage blessing.

Bishop Dewane told the couples that the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony is the most widely held vocation, by far, which is a good thing because those who dedicate themselves to each other show the entire world the beauty of this vocation.

“Married couples are called to a mission to live the Sacrament to its fullest, taking the grace and goodness that comes with it and living it out and giving witness to those you encounter,” Bishop Dewane said. “Marriage is living out the covenant established by God with His people, and it is based on the commitment that flows out from that Sacrament – to live by giving themselves, one to the other, receiving the other in love, devotion and caring.”

Through this covenant, marriage is a permanent and lasting unity where the couple acts as instruments to the grace of God, the Bishop added.

“In the Sacrament of Marriage, you each bring a unique grace,” Bishop Dewane continued. “Live it out. Act it out. Pray to God to have that inspiration. That sacramental bond needs to be rediscovered repeatedly. To understand the bond of love, one must live in the context of sacramental commitment. You can accomplish this by always allowing space for Christ in your relationship.”

One couple from Fort Myers, married for 21 years with four children, said they went to the event looking to reexamine their marriage as two of their children have gone off to college and two others will soon be leaving their home. “We are in a transition in our marriage and this day really helped us renew our focus on being a Christ-centered family. We know we are the examples for our children, We want to make sure we are the best examples we can be.”

The Conference included inspirational talks by Catholic speakers Renzo and Monica Ortega, and Mallory Smyth, as well as Father Alex Pince, Diocesan Director of Vocations and Parochial Vicar at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice.

The “Together in Holiness” Conference made its Diocese of Venice debut in 2021.

For couples who wish to continue enriching their marriage – whether or not they attend the Conference – the “Together in Holiness” Formation series is offered. The Formation series is year-round marriage enrichment for small groups of four to six couples gathering to explore a particular theme based on the life, teaching and witness of St. John Paul II. At the gatherings, couples share a meal, watch a brief video and have guided prayer, Scripture and discussion. If you would like to participate in or learn more about the Together in Holiness Formation series in the Diocese of Venice, contact THFormation@forlifeandfamily.org.

To learn more about other Diocese of Venice initiatives in the support of marriage and family, please contact Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseofvenice.org, or 941-484-4754.

Fort Myers Parish celebrates Golden Jubilee

Serving as a beacon of the light of Christ in the community, the Church of the Resurrection of Our Lord Parish community celebrated 50 years in Fort Myers on Oct. 20, 2024.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated the Parish’s Golden Jubilee Mass, with Resurrection Pastor Msgr. Stephen E. McNamara, and Parochial Vicars Father Patrick Oliver Toner and Father Shawn Roser among the concelebrating priests.

“Reaching 50 is a true accomplishment,” Bishop Dewane said. “This is a celebration for the Diocese, the Parish, the parishioners, and the priests, those who are here now and those who have come before. It is my prayer that you rejoice in the goodness of God having blessed you for these 50 years knowing God will continue to provide for many years to come.”

Bishop Dewane said the Golden Jubilee is a perfect time to reflect, looking back at what has been accomplished, but also a time to look forward and be challenged to continue the legacy that has been put forth.

“A Parish is a testament to Jesus Christ as it provides His faithfulness and His sustained power for the world,” Bishop Dewane said. “We can’t do these things on our own. We must continue to be faithful to the Lord, allowing His grace to give us guidance as the Parish continues to be that beacon for the community and the world.”

Established as a Mission in 1974, Msgr. McNamara is the only Pastor to have served through the 50 years, overseeing the construction on numerous buildings including the church while the community in south Fort Myers grew. That growth was so strong that St. Columbkille and Our Lady of Light were established in the 1990s as Missions to serve the influx of residents to the area.

“It is a blessing to have Bishop Dewane here to be part of this celebration,” Msgr. McNamara said. “It is amazing to think that 50 years has passed since Resurrection was established. Where does the time go?”

During the reception, there was a string trio, and a slideshow of images on a large screen. The conversation focused on each person’s first time they attended Mass at Resurrection. Some were initially seasonal residents before becoming permanent parishioners, while others told of being present for decades. “It is our spiritual home,” one woman said.

Resurrection Parish currently has more than 2,600 registered families.

Red Masses for legal professionals celebrated in Sarasota and Naples

Invoking the Holy Spirit, Bishop Frank J. Dewane recently placed in prayer under the care of God’s grace and providence the legal professionals within the Diocese of Venice. Bishop Dewane made these remarks during two Red Masses, the first on Oct. 16, 2024, at St. Peter the Apostle Parish in Naples, and the second on Oct. 22, at St. Martha Parish in Sarasota.

The name for the Red Mass comes from the red vestments worn by the celebrants, and for the calling of grace and guidance from the Holy Spirit to come upon all who seek and serve justice.

The history of the Red Mass dates to the mid-1200s when Pope Innocent IV celebrated a Mass in the Cathedral of Paris for the Ecclesiastical Judicial Court. Pope Innocence invoked the Holy Spirit as a source of wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude and strength for the coming term of the court.

During the Masses, Bishop Dewane spoke about the rapport between Church and State, between one’s religious convictions and civil commitments, a topic which has recently been particularly heated. The Bishop suggested a few simple and illuminating observations about a right relationship between the secular and religious in our lives.

The Catholic Lawyers Guild of the Diocese of Venice sponsored the Mass in Sarasota. It was this organization that brought the first Red Mass to the Diocese of Venice in 2008 to emulate similar, more well-known Masses. These Masses take place each year for the U.S. Supreme Court in Washington, D.C., and by the Florida Bishops for the Florida Legislature in Tallahassee during the annual Catholic Days at the Capitol.

Guild members thanked Bishop Dewane for his continued unfailing support and prayers for the legal community in the area. A reception followed in the Parish Hall.

The Catholic Lawyers Guild of the Diocese is a not-for-profit corporation formed exclusively for charitable and educational purposes, to promote the spiritual, intellectual and social welfare of its members, who serve the cause of justice consistent with Roman Catholic moral teaching.

Meanwhile, the Catholic Lawyer’s Association of Southwest Florida sponsored the Mass in Naples in what is hoped to be an annual event for legal professionals in the area. Among those attending this Mass were law students and faculty from Ave Maria School of Law in Naples.

News Briefs for the week of October 25, 2024

Appointment

After consultation, Bishop Franck J. Dewane announces the following appointment:

Father Guennadi Romachko, S.A.C., as Parochial Vicar of St. Martha Parish, Sarasota, effective October 15, 2024.

Florida Bishops offer election resources

The Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops has produced two new voter resources for the faithful to consider during the November 2024 General Election. The Florida Conference Voter Guide provides information about Catholic teaching, offers considerations on key topics, and poses questions regarding current issues to assist voters in evaluating candidate positions or political party platforms: FCCB Voter Guide (English) | (Spanish). The Conference also has a comparison of the positions of candidates for U.S. Presidency, Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, on multiple topics, which has been compiled directly from policies, public statements, official or campaign websites, and other sources. Hyperlinks are provided to sources for each position: 2024 Presidential Candidate Comparison (English) | (Spanish).

Bishop honored at Naples Vocations Dinner

Bishop Frank J Dewane was honored on Oct. 19, 2024, during an annual vocations dinner sponsored by St. John Council 11281 Knights of Columbus, at St. John the Evangelist Parish in Naples. In the past, the Knights have honored priests, men and women religious, as a token of their appreciation for and recognition of their vocations. In 2024, the Knights went a step further and honored Bishop Dewane, the man who is largely responsible for all the seminarians the Knights have been supporting through annual dinners.

Students learn about fire safety

Members of the Sebring Fire Department were able to go to St. Catherine Catholic School on Oct. 18, 2024, to share fire safety with students for Fire Prevention Month. Students were given several demonstrations and then had the opportunity to explore two different fire engines.

Parish celebrates Oktoberfest

A beer tent, food, music and lots of fun was had during the Oktoberfest celebration at San Pedro Parish in Nort Port on Oct. 18 and 19, 2024. There were games for children, raffles, and lots of food options for people of all ages.

Fall 40 Days for Life continues in Sarasota, Fort Myers, Naples

Join others in praying for an end to abortion during the fall campaign of 40 Days for Life with prayer vigils continuing each day through Nov. 3, in Fort Myers, Naples and Sarasota. This peaceful prayer movement needs everyone to join in praying for the unborn and families on the public sidewalk outside of Planned Parenthood. The need for support is more important than ever as there are efforts to push to dispense the abortion pill and to pass more extreme abortion measures onto the people of Florida.

The prayer vigil in Fort Myers is from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Mon. – Sat.), at 6418 Commerce Park Drive. For more information, contact Maureen at 40daysforlifefmsp@gmail.com, or visit 40daysforlife.com/fortmyers. The Naples prayer vigil is from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Mon. – Sat.), at 1425 Creech Road. For details, contact Ricki at 40DFLnaples@gmail.com, or visit 40daysforlife.com/naples. In Sarasota, the vigil is daily, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., 736 Central Ave. For more details, contact Rich at  40DFLSarasota@proton.me, or visit 40daysforlife.com/sarasota.

“Witnessing Faith with Bishop Dewane”

Join Bishop Frank J. Dewane for his monthly radio program on Relevant Radio 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 be heard at 8:30 a.m. on Oct. 25, 2024, and will include a talk about All Saints Day and the month dedicated to All Souls. Outside of the listening area, access to the program is available at https://dioceseofvenice.org/our-bishop/relevant-radio-podcasts/.

Faith & Ale Gathering in Fort Myers Nov. 7

Men are welcome to the Faith & Ale Gathering at 6 p.m., Nov. 7, 2024. as Sam Blair speaks about “The Word, The Flesh & The Devil.” This former Navy Seals Lieutenant Commander will speak at the Church of the Resurrection of Our Lord, 8121 Cypress View Drive, Fort Myers. Register and learn more at www.FaithAndAle.com or Damian Hanley at damianpatrick@gmail.com.

Vocation Awareness Weekend Nov. 8-10

St. John Vianney College Seminary in Miami is hosting a Vocation Awareness Weekend from Friday, November 8 at 7:00 p.m. to Sunday, November 10 at 12:00 p.m. This seminary visit is open to young men, ages 17 and up and is an engaging time of prayer, talks, sports, and other fun activities with the seminarians and priests. There is no cost and transportation is provided. To register, please contact Lina Johnson at johnson@dioceseofvenice.org or call 941-486-4720.

Veterans Day Ball on Nov. 8

The annual Ave Maria Veterans Day Ball – A Celebration for All, will take place at 6 p.m., Nov. 8, 2024, at the Del Webb Grand Hall in Ave Maria. The evening includes a cocktail hour, keynote address by Vice Admiral Charles W. Moore Jr., U.S. Navy Ret., dinner and dancing. Tickets are $125 per person and are available at www.avemariakofc.org/veterans-day-ball.

20th Hispanic Fall Festival in Sarasota on Nov. 9

St. Jude Parish, 3930 17th Street, Sarasota, is hosting its 20th Hispanic Fall Festival from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Nov. 9, 2024. There will be a fun day of live music, food from many Latin American countries, folklore dance, games for the kids and family entertainment. The proceeds of this event will go to the building of a New Church. For more information, please call 941-955-3934.

Catholic Mass on Veterans Day

On Veterans Day, Monday, Nov. 11, 2024, the Diocese of Venice will hold a Catholic Mass in honor of the men and women who have served our country and continue to serve and protect us today. This is the 15th year the Diocese has held a Mass on Veterans Day. The opening ceremonies begin at 2:45 p.m., with the Mass at 3:00 p.m. in the Amphitheater at the Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Road 72/Clark Road, approximately five miles east of I-75. The priests, deacons and Knights of Columbus in the Diocese will join in the celebration of the Mass. All are invited to attend, and active military personnel are asked to wear their uniform. Attendees are also encouraged to wear sunscreen and bring a hat. There is ample seating and parking at the cemetery. For further information please contact Gail Ardy at ardy@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-486-4714.

 

2024 Diocesan Youth Rally Nov. 16

All students, grades 9 to 12, are invited to attend this year’s Diocesan Youth Rally from 12:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, at the Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center, 75 Taylor Street, Punta Gorda. The theme for this year’s Rally is “Ignite!” This is a day dedicated to faith, fellowship, and fun, where all come together to have hearts ignited by the Lord Jesus, so that He can draw each person present into a deeper relationship with Himself. The Diocesan Youth Rally will feature inspiring talks, uplifting music, and opportunities to connect with other youth from across the Diocese. Registration is through the Parish. Please contact Andres Prias, Youth and Young Adult Outreach Director, Diocese of Venice Department of Evangelization prias@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-484-9543 for further information.

 

Kristallnacht Commemoration Nov. 17

The Catholic-Jewish Dialogue of Collier County (CJD) invites the community to its annual commemorative service of Kristallnacht or “Night of Broken Glass,” which historians consider the beginning of the Holocaust. The free public event takes place at 2:30 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024, at St. John the Evangelist Parish, 625 111th Ave. N., Naples. The guest speaker is John Koenigsberg, who will share his experiences as a young boy during the Holocaust. At the age of 5, Koenigsberg was brought to the home of a Catholic family by the Dutch Resistance and hid from the Nazis for two years. Kristallnacht recounts the attacks on Jewish communities throughout Germany on Nov. 9-10, 1938. The Kristallnacht commemorative event memorializes the six million Jews who were exterminated during the Holocaust. The event is sponsored by CJD, the Diocese of Venice in Florida, the Jewish Community Relations Council of the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, GenShoah of SWFL, and the Holocaust Museum & Janet G. and Harvey D. Cohen Education Center. Please register at www.jewishnaples.org. A reception will follow the talk.

 

Fall Festival in Immokalee Nov. 27 to Dec. 1

Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, 207 S. 9th St., Immokalee, is hosting a Fall Festival daily from Nov. 27 to Dec. 1, 2024. Featuring modern midways, the festival will include rides, food, raffles, and more. There will be fun for young and old alike. For more details, please call 239-657-2666.