Tag: bishop frank dewane

News briefs for the week of November 22, 2024

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Bishop celebrates Mass for students in Fort Myers and Bradenton

Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated a Mass for the students at Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers on Nov. 15, 2024. The Mass was celebrated in the neighboring St. Cecilia Parish church to accommodate all of the students and faculty. Bishop Dewane also celebrated Mass for students at St. Joseph Catholic School in Bradenton on Nov. 19. These were the latest in a series of Masses Bishop Dewane celebrates at each of the 15 Diocese of Venice Catholic schools during the first semester of the academic year.

Students welcome Bishop to early Thanksgiving luncheon

The students at St. Mary Academy in Sarasota welcomed Bishop Frank J. Dewane to an early Thanksgiving luncheon on Nov. 19, 2024. Students, faculty and guests were treated to a choice of turkey with all the trimmings, ham, and pie. Bishop Dewane led everyone in prayer before the meal.

Holiday Bereavement Outreach coming to Naples and Venice in early December

The “There is Hope – Surviving the Holidays” bereavement outreach is being offered by the Office of Family Life from 3-4:30 p.m., Dec. 3, 2024, at St. Agnes Parish, Parish Center, 7775 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples, and again 3-4:30 p.m., Dec. 6, at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Education Center, 1301 Center Road, Venice. Deacon Henry deMena will offer guidance for loved ones who are trying to cope with loss during the holidays, including suggestions on how to get through the holidays, such as early planning for any activities to help avoid surprises, making sure not to pretend that everything is the same or fine, or to not talk about the loved one, as this can be more painful for the bereaved. No registration is required. For details, contact Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

Tee-Up Fore Kids! Fundraiser Dec. 5 in Fort Myers

Support Catholic Charities’ Children’s Center (formerly AFCAAM Center) serving children in the Dunbar Community of Fort Myers during a golf tournament. The Tee-Up Fore Kids! is Dec. 5, 2024, from 6-9 p.m. at Topgolf, 2021 Top Golf Way, Fort Myers. Tickets are $165 per player and $300 for two players and includes golf, food, drinks, raffles, and entertainment. To reserve your spot or for more information, call 239-344-4007, email, TeeUp4kids@ccdov.org or visit catholiccharitiesdov.org.

Faith & Wine Lee County Dec. 5

The Faith & Wine Lee County will have its first gathering of the season at 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 5, 2024, at Resurrection of Our Lord Parish, 8121 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers. The speaker is Judy Hehr, and the title of her talk is, “It’s never too late to be (bankrupt, homeless, drug addicted, a drop out) …or who God created you to be.” Tickets are $28 and include a three-course dinner with wine followed by the presentation and the opportunity to connect with other faith-based women. For more information and to register online please visit faithandwineleecounty.com.

“There is Hope” Bereavement Outreach Training

The Office of Family Life is hosting a Bereavement training focusing on training parish bereavement volunteers and those who speak with the bereaved. Deacon Henry deMena will lead the training. Deacon deMena holds a master’s degree in counseling and has extensive training and experience in Bereavement. The sessions will be held Dec. 4 and 5, 2024, at St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish, 144 Spear St., Port Charlotte. For more information, contact Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

Diocese of Venice Street Evangelization Training Sessions Dec. 7-8

The Basic Evangelization Training sessions that were postponed due to the hurricane have been rescheduled to December 7 and 8 and will be offered in both English and Spanish. Pope Francis stated that it is the responsibility of every Catholic to share their faith. Representatives from St. Paul Street Evangelization will lead the training in two locations on two consecutive days to provide ample opportunity to attend. Choose either 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Dec. 7, 2024, at St. Andrew Catholic School, 1509 SE 27th St., Cape Coral, or you can opt to attend 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Dec. 8, at St. Paul Parish Hall, 1330 E. Oak St., Arcadia. The training is $25, and this covers a light breakfast and lunch as well as all materials, including the handout book and evangelization supplies. Registration is required online at http://stpaulse.com/venice. For additional information, please contact Jim Gontis at 941-484-4754, or gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

Our Lady of Guadalupe Festival in Port Charlotte on Dec. 7

Join St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Parish and Catholic School for an unforgettable day filled with Mexican-inspired food, beer, activities, and more during their Our Lady of Guadalupe Festival from 1 p.m. – 9 p.m., Dec. 7, 2024. The school is located at 21505 Augusta Ave, Port Charlotte. For more information visit www.stcbs.org/festival or contact Alicia Castello at 941-625-5533 ext. 213.

Disaster Relief continues in Diocese

Our Catholic Faith calls each of us to care for those in need and, at this time in particular, for those who are suffering in the wakes of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. To donate, please visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/disasterrelief/. Please know that donations will support charitable relief for the Diocese of Venice and assist in necessary recovery efforts, such as rebuilding and repairing our churches and schools. Your generosity and prayers for the people of the Diocese of Venice are deeply appreciated. Should you wish to donate via check rather than online, you may mail your donation to: Diocese of Venice in Florida/Disaster Relief, 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, Florida 34285. If you are in need of help, please visit Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice at catholiccharitiesdov.org.

15th Annual Catholic Mass honors veterans at National Cemetery

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The 15th Annual Catholic Mass on Veterans Day at Sarasota National Cemetery was celebrated to thank God for all who serve or have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, including those who are on active duty, as well as those who have died, and their families.

More than 800 people attended the Mass which takes place in Patriots Plaza at the National Cemetery in Sarasota on Nov. 11 each year. Bishop Frank J. Dewane initiated the Catholic Mass in 2010 just a few years after the cemetery opened.

The main celebrant and homilist for the Mass was Father Bob Kantor, Pastor of St. Agnes Parish in Naples, State Chaplain of the Knights of Columbus, and a retired U.S. Navy Chaplain. In addition, 18 priests concelebrated.

Father Kantor expressed how he was blessed and honored to celebrate the Catholic Veterans Day Mass at the National Cemetery, having served during Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.

“We are on ground that is hallowed by the bodies of those who have served our nation so honorably and to those of you here present who are still alive to bear witness to Jesus Christ,” Father Kantor said. “We join our prayers to yours, praying to the souls of those departed and those living we celebrate this Veterans Day. May it be a day of joy and strength and recognition for what a blessing you are to our nation.”

“Whenever our nation has gone to war, brave men and women have answered the call; sometimes those in the Army, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marine gave their lives,” Father Kantor said. “Today we remember those who returned, some who suffered physically or mentally, all who sacrificed heroically.”

Reflecting upon his service in Afghanistan and Iraq, Father Kantor described bringing the sacraments to sailors, soldiers, and airmen on ships, oil platforms and at forward operating bases. He remembered those who, despite enduring active combat zone conditions, held close to and even grew in their faith. These men and women gathered on short notice in a mess tent that served as a temporary Chapel, with dirty faces and little rest were sacrificing to draw closer to the Lord.

“Many of us who served can remember comrades who did not make it home,” Father Kantor said. “We remember those people who helped us get through; those who showed us what it was to serve honorably. We hold lessons deep in our hearts. Everyone has his or her memories. Some that are an open book – some locked away to be revealed to no one, but God. We gather to pray for all who had these experiences and for us veterans to entrust ourselves to God, knowing we did our best.”

Veterans Day prophetically falls on the Feast of St. Martin of Tours, a Bishop who was a soldier who then dedicated his life to God. Father Kantor noted that the Saint’s life represented a transition from war to a condition of peace. The holiday was established following World War I as a recognition of the end to that terrible conflict on Nov. 11, 1918. Established as Armistice Day by President Woodrow Wilson in 1919, the day similarly marked a transition from war to peace. The recognition was broadened to honor and thank all who have served in the U.S. Armed Services, becoming Veterans Day under President Dwight D. Eisenhower.

 

Prior to the opening of the Mass, all veterans – active and retired – were asked to stand and be recognized and were honored with resounding applause. This was followed by the presentation of the Colors by the Knights of Columbus Color Corps and then the singing of the National Anthem.

The Sarasota National Cemetery celebration concluded with a procession, escorted by the Knights of Columbus Color Corps to the nearby graves as those in attendance sang “God Bless America.”

Father Kantor, priests, Deacons, the Knights of Columbus Color Corps, and all present, then gathered in silent prayer before “Taps” was played on a bugle.

John Robinson, a parishioner at St. Thomas More Parish in Sarasota and a combat-wounded U.S. Marine who served during the Korean War, has attended every Catholic Mass on Veterans Day because he feels it is his duty to honor the memory of his comrades in arms.

“I found my faith during war,” Robinson said. “I was proud to serve my country and it is wonderful that the Catholic Church recognizes the sacrifice made by our veterans by having this Mass every year.”

There are now more than 25,000 veterans and eligible family members currently interred in the National Cemetery and some 18.5 million military veterans in the United States.

The Diocese of Venice coordinates the Catholic Mass at the National Cemetery with the backing of the Knights of Columbus and is grateful for the help and support of Sarasota National Cemetery.

During the Mass, the gifts were brought forward by Steve and Kathy Jendrysik, of Incarnation Parish in Sarasota. Both are U.S. Navy veterans.

 

Mass honors grandparents at Neumann

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Grandparents, a vital link to the past – most importantly to the Faith – were welcomed to St. John Neumann Catholic High School in Naples for a special celebration.

A Grandparents Day celebration on Nov. 7, 2024, opened with a Mass celebrated by Bishop Frank J. Dewane in the gymnasium to accommodate the large number of students (426) and the 165 participating grandparents.

Bishop Dewane said he was delighted to see the growth at St. John Neumann and that so many grandparents could see what is available for their grandchildren at the school.

The Mass was dedicated to honor all grandparents, present for the Mass or unable to attend, as well as those who are deceased. Bishop Dewane said it is important to celebrate grandparents knowing the goodness of the love that comes from them.

“They live for the other,” Bishop Dewane said. “We are richer and wiser in those who love us. Pope Francis defines love as willing the good of others. I encourage young people to talk to their grandparents about what love has meant to them. It has made them better, richer, and wiser. These are gifts that come from the Lord. It is through the years of experience that the richness of love is found. In that love, we see the mercy of the Lord.”

Bishop Dewane described the young people as bringing a life, or spark, to the family, creating a rare condition of love and richness that must be nurtured.

“Talk to your grandparents as you mature and grow,” Bishop Dewane said. “Let that relationship, between the grandparent and grandchild, be something that makes each one better and richer in who they are. Let it allow them both to be wiser in the decisions they make going forward in their lives.”

Sister Patricia Roche, FMA, Principal of St. John Neumann Catholic High School, said the school was blessed to have so many grandparents present for the special occasion.

“You are the pillars in society,” Sister Patricia said. “Your grandchildren are a wonderful reflection of you. They are not only good-looking and charming, but they are intelligent with great personalities. You can be very proud of them.”

Mass was followed by a reception for the 165 participating grandparents and their grandchildren. In addition to refreshments, students were encouraged to give their grandparents a tour of the school and classrooms.

One grandmother remarked while on a school tour about how beautiful the Mass was and that it is a blessing that her granddaughter can attend such a wonderful school. “Everyone here is so wonderful and welcoming.”

Memorial Mass held for deceased Deacons and their spouses

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Remembering those who have gone before, Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated the annual Memorial Mass for deceased Deacons and their wives on Nov. 9, 2024, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice.

The Mass is held in November to coincide with the Month of All Souls. In addition to Deacons and their spouses, also present were members of the Permanent Diaconate Formation Classes of 2025 and 2028 and their spouses.

“The Month of November is dedicated to those who have gone before us,” Bishop Dewane said. “As men and women of God, we are called to keep in mind the members who have served as Deacons and their wives who serve as an example for all of us. Remembering the dead should remind us of who we are as men and women of God and who we strive to be. It is also a reminder to us of our own mortality – that we too will die – it is the human condition. Death is something we want to be part of, because it is in that we will be reunited with Christ.”

Bishop Dewane reminded the Deacons and their spouses that we are taught that baptism is when our death with Christ begins.

“From that point, we go forward and respond in our lives with the presence of God working at the very roots of our being,” the Bishop continued. “Our baptism into the Lord changes our trajectory on how we are to live our life.”

The Memorial Mass brings together those Deacons, and their wives, serving today while honoring the memory of those who have served in the Diocese of Venice since its founding, building it up. While the Diocese is blessed to have Deacons who were ordained here, the Bishop noted that there are many transplants to the area. No matter their origin, each Deacon and their spouse offers their own talents and gifts in service to the Lord. The Bishop expressed his gratitude to all for answering the call of the Lord in a precise way.

“I appreciate all of you for the good works that you and your spouses do for the Church in the Diocese of Venice,” Bishop Dewane said. “Go forward and continue to serve the people in the way the Lord has prompted, as you continue to respond to His call in your lives – to become more that man or woman of God you are called to be.”

As part of this annual tradition, during the Prayer Intentions, the names of those who have passed away during the previous year are solemnly read as candles are lit in their honor.

Deacon David Reardon, Director of Diaconate Personnel, said this annual Memorial Mass is a great consolation for the Deacons and their wives as it is one of the few times they can gather to reflect on friends and colleagues who have gone before.

Today, there are more than 65 Permanent Deacons, many seasonal, living and serving throughout the Diocese of Venice.

News briefs for the week of November 15, 2024

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Eagle Run supports Bradenton school

The annual St. Joseph Catholic School Eagle Run took place Nov. 8, 2024, in Bradenton. Thanks to parents, St. Joseph Parish and the greater community, the fundraising goal of $35,000 was reached! Students ran a course and played games in the Parish Center as part of the event in support of the school.

Special collection for hurricane relief Nov. 16-17

A special Hurricane Relief Collection will take place during all Masses in the Diocese of Venice on the weekend of Nov. 16-17, 2024. Bishop Frank J. Dewane called for this collection to aid in the recovery following the impacts of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Coastal areas were flooded and many other areas had significant wind damage. Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., has been working to provide assistance at designated sites, distributing water, food, tarps, cleaning supplies, and other basic necessities. The collection will help provide for the continuing needs, as well as the effort of Catholic Charities in providing both immediate and long-term assistance to those impacted.

Theology on Tap Nov. 21 in Sarasota

The next gathering of Theology on Tap, a young adult outreach of the Diocese of Venice, will be 7-9 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 21, 2024, at Big Top Brewing, 3045 Fruitville Commons Blvd., Sarasota. The presentation will be offered by Deacon Kevin McKenney of Incarnation Parish in Sarasota. His talk will focus on the Gospel of Matthew 25:36: “I was in prison, and you visited me.” It is part of the passage where Jesus speaks about the importance of caring for others, emphasizing that acts of kindness and compassion towards those in need are seen as acts of kindness towards Him. There is no cost to attend. For more information, contact Andres Prias at prias@dioceseofvenice.org, or 941484-1122.

Holiday Bereavement Outreach coming to Naples and Venice in early December

The “There is Hope – Surviving the Holidays” bereavement outreach is being offered by the Office of Family Life from 3-4:30 p.m., Dec. 3, 2024, at St. Agnes Parish, Parish Center, 7775 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples, and again 3-4:30 p.m., Dec. 6, at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Education Center, 1301 Center Road, Venice. Deacon Henry deMena will offer guidance for loved ones who are trying to cope with loss during the holidays, including suggestions on how to get through the holidays, such as early planning for any activities to help avoid surprises, making sure not to pretend that everything is the same or fine, or to not talk about the loved one, as this can be more painful for the bereaved. No registration is required. For more information, please contact Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

Tee-Up Fore Kids! Fundraiser Dec. 5 in Fort Myers

Support Catholic Charities’ African Caribbean American Center (AFCAAM Center) serving children in the Dunbar Community of Fort Myers during a golf tournament. The Tee-Up Fore Kids! is Dec. 5, 2024, from 6-9 p.m. at Topgolf, 2021 Top Golf Way, Fort Myers. Tickets are $165 per player and $300 for two players and includes golf, food, drinks, raffles, and entertainment. To reserve your spot or for more information, call 239-344-4007, email, TeeUp4kids@ccdov.org or visit catholiccharitiesdov.org.

Faith & Wine Lee County Dec. 5

The Faith & Wine Lee County will have its first gathering of the season at 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 5, 2024, at Resurrection of Our Lord Parish, 8121 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers. The speaker is Judy Hehr, and the title of her talk is, “It’s never too late to be (bankrupt, homeless, drug addicted, a drop out) …or who God created you to be.” Tickets are $28 and include a three-course dinner with wine followed by the presentation and the opportunity to connect with other faith-based women. For more information and to register online please visit faithandwineleecounty.com.

“There is Hope” Bereavement Outreach Training

The Office of Family Life is hosting a Bereavement training focusing on training parish bereavement volunteers and those who speak with the bereaved. Deacon Henry deMena will lead the training. Deacon deMena holds a master’s degree in counseling and has extensive training and experience in Bereavement. The sessions will be held Dec. 4 and 5, 2024, at St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish, 144 Spear St., Port Charlotte. For more information, contact Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

Defeat of Amendment 4 is good news – But does not stop fight to protect LIFE

Posted on by Bob Reddy

News of the defeat of Amendment 4, an extreme and dangerous proposed amendment to the Florida Constitution that would have radically expanded access to abortion, spread rapidly on Election Night, with the Florida Bishops expressing their relief, while news that a majority of voters supported the amendment remains a concern.

“This is a great victory not only for the protection of full-term babies, but also for the protection of mothers and girls who were placed in danger by the proposed amendment,” Bishop Dewane said. “My thanks and gratitude go out to the many across the Diocese of Venice who stood up to support life and helped to defeat Amendment 4. To all who prayed, put up yard signs, handed out information, spoke to their neighbors, stood on the sidewalks in the public square saying, “NO on 4!” I humbly say: ‘THANK YOU!’”

Amendment 4 required 60% of the vote in Florida for passage, and the Diocese of Venice was blessed that none of the 10 counties which make up the Diocese of Venice reached that threshold. If fact, six of the 10 counties did not ever reach 50% in favor of Amendment 4, a good sign for standing for life moving forward.

The focus of the Catholic Church on abortion is, and has always been, to help women in unexpected or difficult pregnancies to appreciate the gift of life, helping them to make the right choice for life. 

“We must continue in these efforts,” Bishop Dewane said. “Of course, legal protection of the unborn must be accompanied by more care for mothers and their children. The Catholic Church, and the Diocese of Venice, stand ready to help mothers in need. Pregnant women must know that they are not alone.”

Parishes in the Diocese of Venice have redoubled their efforts to accompany women and couples who are facing unexpected or difficult pregnancies, offering them loving and compassionate care, through the “Walking with Moms in Need” program. This program educates the faithful where to send a pregnant woman in need (https://dioceseofvenice.org/walking-with-moms-in-need) with all resources available in both English and Spanish. There are 22 Pregnancy Help Centers and nine residential maternity and after-birth homes within the Diocese, standing ready to help. Importantly, with an expected increase for demand, there are many financial and volunteering opportunities available to support these Pregnancy Help Centers.

While Bishop Dewane, along with the Florida Bishops said that the defeat of Amendment 4 is a time for celebration, there still needs to be a focus on making abortion unthinkable in Florida.

“Though Amendment 4 failed to reach the 60% threshold required to pass, a majority of Floridians voting in the general election supported it,” the Florida Bishops said. “While significant gains to protect women and preborn children in recent years will remain in place, abortion in Florida will continue at a very high rate under our current laws.”

“Much work remains to open hearts and minds to the dignity and goodness of life in the womb and at every stage,” the Florida Bishops statement continued. “We will continue to proclaim in our churches and in the public square the value of every human life and to highlight that there is a better way forward for women, families and society than abortion. Through our many ministries, we will continue to support, encourage and assist pregnant women and young families. For those who regret their abortion or abortions, or their cooperation in one, we reiterate that the Lord is eager to forgive, and the Church is ready to facilitate healing.”

For decades, the Diocese of Venice has supported Pregnancy Help Centers and will continue to do so. Our Mother’s House of Catholic Charities in Venice is one of the programs in the Diocese that supports single mothers and their children, providing not just housing and material needs, but valuable counseling and education.

There is also a support after abortion outreach in the Diocese called Project Rachel. This program is a confidential service where any woman or man who is hurting from an abortion can seek help and find hope and healing. Again, this service is available in both English and Spanish.

“Many people still don’t understand Catholic teaching on abortion and the sanctity of human life,” said Jeanne Berdeaux, Diocese of Venice Respect Life Director. “There are many resources available to help them learn the truth beginning with the Catechism of the Catholic Church and on our Diocesan website. We must all be reminded that in God’s eyes, all human life is sacred, from conception to natural death; this is the teaching of the Catholic Church.”

Bishop Dewane concluded that as we move forward from the defeat of Amendment 4, “Let us all continue to pray for the end to abortion, and the end to taking the lives of an entire category of human beings, the preborn.”

STREAM enhances Diocesan classroom experiences and opportunities

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Visit any one of the 15 Diocese of Venice Catholic Schools and you will find students engaged in interesting and exciting classroom projects that incorporate a Christ-centered curriculum while using real-world skills in the fields of STREAM (Science, Technology, Religion, Education, Arts and Mathematics).

The Diocesan curriculum called, “The Gifts of Christ: Truth, Beauty, Goodness, Affability, Fortitude, Humility, and Prudence,” embraces the skills learned through STREAM, creating interdisciplinary learning.

A part of Catholic education for more than a decade, Bishop Frank J. Dewane initiated the effort to use STREAM in all aspects of the Diocesan curriculum. This effort took a major leap forward in 2021 with a robotics program for students of all ages.

Combining the STREAM and Gifts of Christ initiatives helps to develop skills such as leadership, communication, complex problem solving, teamwork and creativity. All of this is being done with a foundation of the Catholic Faith which remains the primary job of all Diocesan schools.

“We have Christ at the center of everything,” Bishop Dewane said. “We accomplish this through our comprehensive Gifts of Christ initiative which enhances the faith and academic life of the students and the entire Diocesan school community. By utilizing STREAM in all aspects of the educational process, a strong Catholic culture is created, providing a Catholic world view, and building moral character. Further, STREAM helps develop the creative imagination of each student.”

Bishop Dewane said his support for the STREAM program, and robotics component, grew out of the concept of preparing students for the future.

“Whether in high school or middle school, we must prepare all of our students to have the skills and exposure to this kind of process,” Bishop Dewane said. “STREAM and robotics introduce the necessary skills to succeed in today’s society and tomorrow’s world. The virtues that are instilled into the very fabric of this program inspires students to apply faith, science, and technology in meaningful ways.”

Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocesan Superintendent of Catholic Education, said the Diocese of Venice is well on its way to becoming the nation’s premier provider of STREAM education.

“This system supports teachers by helping them prepare every student to become a man or woman of God, a person of virtue, who pursues scientific, technological and artistic endeavors founded on Faith,” Father Belmonte said.

Students of all ages are using technology, science and other skills to learn about subjects from religion to physics and everything in between.

An example of this was found recently at two different schools where students did experiments using the air. Pre-kindergarten students at St. Joseph Catholic School in Bradenton experimented with how to create bubbles. They used different tools to see who could make the biggest and most bubbles. Meanwhile students at Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers did their own experiment, this one to figure out how to scientifically prove the amount of oxygen there is in the atmosphere.

Jennifer Falestiny, Diocesan Director of Curriculum, said the Catholic Faith integration into subjects utilizing STREAM concepts and the Gifts of Christ in all grade levels and subject areas has taken time, but the results are seen in the classroom, and beyond.

“Diocesan Catholic schools are outstanding in placing students ahead of the curve in primary fields while continuing to promote core Catholic values,” Falestiny said. “This initiative is helping students to develop cognitive thought processes and gain skills such as leadership, communication, complex problem solving, teamwork and creativity.”

Diocese of Venice Catholic Schools serve 6,524 students in 15 schools. To learn more, please visit www.dioceseofvenice.org/catholicschools.

Fort Myers Vietnamese Catholic community celebrates 15 years

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The growing Catholic Vietnamese community in the Diocese of Venice celebrated a milestone, marking 15 years with a permanent Mass at St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane, who was the main celebrant for the Mass on Nov. 2, 2024, expressed his admiration for the Catholic Vietnamese community in Fort Myers, offering strong contributions to the faith-life of the Diocese.

“It is I who am honored to be with all of you as a part of this festive celebration,” Bishop Dewane said. “Your presence in the Diocese, permanently for the past 15 years at St. John XXIII, has been positive and beautiful. The contribution that you make here at your Parish is substantial. You may be small in number, but you are a good number. You are here. The Lord calls you to come, to be present to worship Sunday after Sunday, and we continue to give thanks for that blessing.”

Looking forward, the Bishop said he will continue to support the Vietnamese Catholic community as it grows. In addition to the Mass at St. John XXIII, Masses in Vietnamese are celebrated in Sarasota at St. Martha Parish and mostly recently periodically at San Pedro Parish in North Port. In addition, there are currently two men who are from Vietnam in formation as Diocesan seminarians.

“I see a strong future for the Vietnamese community here in this Diocese,” Bishop Dewane said. “As we go forward, we celebrate 15 years by being grateful for the blessings the Lord has bestowed on this community as it thrives. It is an important part of the Diocese of Venice.”

Father Joseph Than Van Liem, CRM, the current Chaplain for the Vietnamese community at St. John XXIII, concelebrated the Mass, and thanked Bishop Dewane for his support of the community and presence for the 15th anniversary celebration.

The opening for the Mass began with a colorful procession, including the faithful, from the Vietnamese Martyrs Memorial, through the courtyard and into the Parish church. The memorial to 117 Vietnamese Martyrs was dedicated in 2013 by Bishop Dewane. As part of the celebration, Vietnamese Catholic flags were raised above the memorial and parking lot.

The Vietnamese Catholics celebrated Mass at several Parishes in Lee County before Bishop Dewane helped the community find its permanent home in 2009 at St. John XXIII Parish.

Adam Nguyen, who has been a leader in the Fort Myers Vietnamese community since its inception, explained how Bishop Dewane understood the need for finding a permanent home in Lee County and how the staff and faithful at St. John XXIII were very welcoming.

“It was 15 years ago when we felt lost and adrift, much like orphans yearning for a home. When we approached St. John XXIII Parish those doors swung wide open, welcoming us with warmth and compassion,” Nguyen said. “We are endlessly thankful for the Lord guiding us here.”

Nguyen said the blessing and support of Bishop Dewane, bringing in Vietnamese clergy to support the community, has allowed the community to flourish.

“We will always be a part of your legacy, and your unwavering support will forever be in our hearts,” Nguyen said.

Also concelebrating during the Mass were Father Bernadine Tan Minh Dang, CRM, who was the first permanent priest to serve the Vietnamese community at St. John XXIII; Father Joseph Toan Duc Vu, CRM, Parochial Vicar at St. Martha Parish in Sarasota who serves the Vietnamese Catholic Community in the region; Father Jayabalan Raju, Administrator at St. John XXIII; and Father Greg Dougherty, Parochial Vicar at the Parish.

Scholar to speak at Holocaust remembrance for “Night of Broken Glass” in Naples Nov. 17

Posted on by Bob Reddy

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.

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 Catholic-Jewish Dialogue of Collier County has collaborated for more than 20 years in search of a deeper understanding of the ties that unite, not divide,” said Ginny Segaloff, chair of the commemoration program. “And while it’s been 86 years since Kristallnacht, the lessons of the Holocaust remain as vital and necessary as ever.”

The guest speaker is John Koenigsberg, who will share his Holocaust survival story. In the spring of 1943, 5-year-old John was brought to the home of Johannes and Anna Snijckers by the Dutch resistance. The Catholic family protected John despite the risk of great personal danger by the occupying Nazis. Koenigsberg was lovingly accepted by “Mama and Papa” Snijckers as their fifth child and was welcomed by the couple’s other four children as their little brother. He attended the same Catholic primary school as the other children and was reunited with his parents at the end of the war.

The CJD is affiliated with Jewish Federation of Greater Naples and the Collier County Parishes of the Diocese of Venice. Its purpose is to engage Catholics and Jews in understanding history and advancing the cause of mutual understanding and appreciation of differences as well as commonalities.

The event, which is marking its return to in-person gatherings after several years as virtual-only, 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. The host location rotates annually between Jewish temples and community centers and Catholic parishes.

All are welcome, and advance registration is requested at https://jfgn.regfox.com/kristallnacht-2024. A reception will follow the talk.

News Briefs for the week of November 8, 2024

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Announcements

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

Father Sebastian Szczawinski, Pastor of Our Lady of the Angels Parish, is welcomed to the Presbyterate of the Diocese of Venice and is incardinated into said Diocese, effective Nov. 1, 2024.

Father Timothy Deutsch, as Parochial Vicar of St. John the Evangelist in Naples, effective Oct. 21, 2024.

Father Rodolfo French Naar, as Parochial Vicar of St. Raphael Parish in Lehigh Acres, effective Oct. 23, 2024.

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.

Two Diocesan seminarians admitted to Candidacy

Seminarians Alexander J. Baugh and Terry P. Gastauer, in formation for the Diocese of Venice, were among nine to be admitted to Candidacy for Holy Orders during a Mass on Oct. 30, 2024, at Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary in Weston, Massachusetts. Each seminarian has been approved by his Bishop and will continue studies and formation to become a Catholic priest. In addition, they have demonstrated their intention and dedication to complete their preparation for Holy Orders. The Mass for Admission to Candidacy for Holy Orders was presided over by Most Reverend David Leon Toups, Bishop of the Diocese of Beaumont, Texas.

Bishop celebrates Mass for three schools

On Oct. 31, 2024, Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated Mass at the Donahue Catholic Academy of Ave Maria Parish in Ave Maria on Oct. 31, 2024. In addition, Bishop Dewane celebrated Mass at St. Catherine Catholic School in Sebring on Nov. 4, and Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School on Nov. 5. These are the latest in a series of Masses celebrated at Diocesan Catholic schools at the beginning of the academic year. Additional Masses are scheduled through December.

Special collection for hurricane relief Nov. 16-17

A special Hurricane Relief Collection will take place during all Masses in the Diocese of Venice on the weekend of Nov. 16-17, 2024. Bishop Frank J. Dewane called for this collection to aid in the recovery following the impacts of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Coastal areas were flooded and many other areas had significant wind damage. Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., has been working to provide assistance at designated sites, distributing water, food, tarps, cleaning supplies, and other basic necessities. The collection will help provide for the continuing needs, as well as the effort of Catholic Charities in providing both immediate and long-term assistance to those impacted.

Knights golf tournament benefits Catholic Charities’ Our Mother’s House

Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., and Our Mother’s House were among the beneficiaries of the Knights of Columbus Our Lady of Lourdes Council 9924 Circle of Life Charity Golf Event in October 2024. A check presentation ceremony took place at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Venice on Nov. 5.

All Saints Day celebrated at Parishes and schools

Young children dressed as their favorite saints were a common sight during All Saints Day celebrations at Diocese of Venice Catholic Schools and Parishes. Several schools hosted pageants with students often sharing information about their chosen saint.

Civics lessons learned on Election Day

While the nation voted on Nov. 4, 2024, Diocese of Venice Catholic School students went to the polls to participate in their own “election.” Students learned about voting rights, the importance of participating in elections and even cast ballots for their favorite ice cream or superhero. This civics lesson helps keep students informed about this important process.

School diaper drive supports Community Pregnancy Clinics

During the month of October, Respect Life Month, the students at the Donahue Catholic Academy of Ave Maria Parish in Ave Maria collected diapers and wipes for Community Pregnancy Clinics in Naples. The diapers were picked up by Clinics CEO Scott Baier on Oct. 31, 2024. Bishop Frank J. Dewane was present to bless the donations which will go to support women and their newborn children throughout Southwest Florida.

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