Tag: bishop frank dewane

Two years later, Ian recovery continues

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The destruction wrought by Hurricane Ian in September of 2022 was unprecedented and felt across the entire Diocese of Venice, with thousands of people and hundreds of buildings affected.

In the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Ian, the Diocese of Venice, along with Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, prioritized the emergency needs and wellbeing of residents throughout the Diocese, including food, and shelter.  This support is ongoing, even now, as many are still without homes, or jobs, resulting from that terrible storm.

Simultaneously, the Diocese’s immediate focus was on preventing further, crippling damage to the affected buildings throughout the Diocese, with the goal of getting as many Parishes back up and running as soon as possible. Bishop Frank J. Dewane, and Diocesan Chancellor Dr. Volodymyr Smeryk made an immediate tour to assess the extent of damage and offer assistance. Both have made numerous subsequent visits to monitor the progress of the recovery efforts.

Within the Diocese of Venice, the Building and Construction Department reported 93 locations (Parishes, schools, Catholic Charities, and other entities) that constituted damage reports on 841 buildings or land improvement structures (landscaping, fencing, lighting, and other infrastructure), with 404 of the buildings receiving enough significant damage to require an insurance claim and/or major reconstruction.

While huge strides have been made in most locations, there are several notable exceptions which include Ascension Parish on Fort Myers Beach, St. Isabel Parish in Sanibel, and to a much lesser extent at Incarnation Parish in Sarasota, and in Fort Myers both San Jose and Sagrada Familia Missions.

In the aftermath of Ian, mitigation work began immediately to prevent additional damage, but the widespread scope of the damage overwhelmed the available resources. Supply chain issues, as well as surging costs continue to complicate the recovery efforts.

Most significantly impacted was Ascension Parish on Fort Myers Beach, where every building on the property suffered massive damage, leaving the church destroyed. Because of the unprecedented nature of the storm damage and resulting saltwater intrusion, it was necessary to first determine what might even be possible at that location moving forward. Due to the extreme nature of the damage, as well as new and changing building codes and insurance requirements, this first decision took some time.

Bishop Dewane made several visits to the site and consulted with other areas in Florida where Parishes have been similarly drastically impacted on other occasions. Taking into consideration the pastoral needs of Fort Myers Beach, the decision was made to rebuild on the site, including preserving the existing Memorial Garden, and plans are making progress. An architectural firm as well as a construction firm have been engaged and are actively working on the site re-development.

Factors in the delay have been many, including simply clearing the massive amounts of debris from the property. It also took a year for electricity to be restored. In addition, the finalization of new FEMA requirements, including a rule for new construction to be built six feet above sea level, have slowed down attempts by the Bishop, and other Diocesan officials, to develop a concrete plan for the future.

“Although a final plan has not yet been approved, we are well on our way,” Bishop Dewane said. “I can tell you that a new church will be built at a more central location on the property, with increased capacity for parishioners. While it will not be the original church, it is going to be a beautiful new place of worship and community.”

Chancellor Smeryk explained that at Ascension Parish, and at all reconstruction efforts across the Diocese, factors in rebuilding include an emphasis on safety and durability, as well the history and beauty of the property as contributing factors.

The timeline for completion of Ascension church is anticipated to be 3-4 years, which is similar to the recovery following Hurricane Charley in 2004 when it took the same amount of time to rebuild two Parishes. Regarding staffing, Father William Adams and the Poor Sisters of Saint Clare will not be returning to the “new” Ascension; Father has recently retired, and the Sisters have elected to move elsewhere and not live under the threat of a repeat occurrence.

Many former parishioners of Ascension are no longer in the area, having returned to homes up north, or to live with family elsewhere since Hurricane Ian. Those who remain in the area have been encouraged to attend nearby St. Leo the Great Parish in Bonita Springs for Mass as well as for any other pastoral or Sacramental needs; many have found welcome there.

At St. Isabel Parish on Sanibel, the damage was also extreme, with storm surge destroying the rectory and invading the church and Parish hall. While the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass returned to the church three months after Ian, the situation was not ideal, as the church floors and walls were bare after much was removed for mitigation purposes.

The priority at St. Isabel was to first repair the Parish hall and then the focus would switch to the church. The hall was completed in the spring of 2024. At that time, the celebration of the Mass moved to the hall and the focus of the reconstruction switched to the church. That work is expected to be completed by Christmas. The rectory, which was destroyed, will be built new at a future date.

Sagrada Familia Mission in Fort Myers has had delays in its own roof repairs due to the nature of the original construction. In addition to roof repairs, the infrastructure (outdated wiring, HVAC, etc.) also need to be upgraded. This work is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

At San Jose Mission, also in Fort Myers, the Mission church had extensive flood damage and reopened in May. However, portable classrooms used for religious education were damaged beyond repair and will be replaced in the coming months.

Meanwhile, at Incarnation Parish in Sarasota, most of the major roof damage was repaired within nine months, but there has been a significant delay in completing the work. This occurred because the chapel roof is domed and has a unique skylight. While the chapel roof could have been replaced without a skylight, the necessary structural reinforcements to the building were cost prohibitive. The new skylight is expected to be installed in November, with the final roof repairs completed soon thereafter.

Bishop Dewane expressed his gratitude for the patience and understanding the faithful have shown through the arduous recovery process following Hurricane Ian.

“The resilience of the faithful has been inspiring to witness,” Bishop Dewane said. “Let us continue to pray for safety during this hurricane season in Southwest Florida.”

Diocese to host fourth annual marriage enrichment conference on Oct. 19

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The Diocese of Venice recognizes and supports the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony and celebrates the vocation of marriage by offering supportive preparation course, inspiring conferences, and celebrating the longevity of married couples with during annual Masses. The importance of forming and accompanying all married couples, from newlyweds to empty nesters, to live out their vocation in holiness and joy is a priority! As St. John Paul II famously said, “As goes the family, so goes the nation, and so goes the entire world in which we live.” It is of crucial importance that families in the Church are empowered to their sacred covenant.

Therefore, to promote greater formation for couples, Bishop Frank J. Dewane and the Diocesan Office of Marriage and Family Life are working in collaboration with the St. John Paul II Foundation to present the fourth annual “Together in Holiness” Marriage Enrichment Conference on Oct. 19, 2024, at the Church of the Resurrection of Our Lord, 8051 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers.

In a video message encouraging engaged and married couples to attend this important Conference, Bishop Dewane said the day is a way to celebrate the essential and beautiful vocation of marriage together with God.

“Come together for a day dedicated to your marriage, and the union union you are as a couple, with God,” Bishop Dewane said. “The day will be filled with prayer, fellowship, and reflection, and presents a rare opportunity to focus on what is truly important. Know that your commitment to one another represents hope not only for yourselves and your family, but for the future of the Church. As you grow together in love, embracing your vocation as husband and wife, our Church flourishes.”

Bishop Dewane will celebrate the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass at the conference. This will include a special marriage blessing from the Bishop for all couples present.

The Conference is a great opportunity for all Catholic engaged and married couples in the Diocese to gather for themselves and their marriage.

Registration is now open for the day-long event (8 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.), which includes inspirational talks by Catholic speakers Renzo and Monica Ortega, 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, and the event has grown each year with more than 250 people attending in 2023. The conference has received rave reviews from participants who remark not only how wonderful the speakers are but also the supportive atmosphere the entire day offers. “It was wonderful. Each speaker offered something of value that will enrich us as a couple, and as a family going forward,” one couple from Naples said in 2023.

The following are additional comments from previous attendees:

  • “We enjoyed the ‘Together in Holiness’ Conference so much! It was a refresher from our marriage prep retreat, and we would definitely recommend more couples attend this Conference!”
  • “It was a wonderful day to spend time away from the constructs of everyday, busy life and just focus on time with my best friend.”
  • “It was encouraging to see so many couples committed to growing in their faith and marriage.”

The cost is $54 for registration before Sept. 9, and $64 afterwards. Childcare ($5 per child), as well as full and partial scholarships, are available.

For those interested in attending the Together in Holiness marriage enrichment conference, registration information is available at www.togetherinholiness.org/venice. You can also contact Conference Coordinator Ellen Santoro at ellen@forlifeandfamily.org or 832-779-1070 for more information.

Continuing the Journey

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.

Catholic students return to School for new academic year

Posted on by Bob Reddy

In addition to anticipation, excitement and joy, some tears were shed on the first day of School as students returned the week of Aug. 12, 2024, for the 2024-2025 Academic Year at the 15 Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Venice.

Most of the tears were from parents who were reminded that their children are growing up. Calls of “Love you!” “Miss you already!” “One more hug!” “Have a great day!” “Have fun!” sounded through the hallways. Some of the younger students had their own trouble leaving their parents behind on the first day, but most calmed down once they reached their first classroom. Once settled in the classroom, the students found new wonders to explore and quickly learned that they had many new friends.

Meanwhile, the older students dove right into classwork and made preparations for a long School year. Each of the students left after that first day knowing that many new and exciting possibilities await them, on many levels, during the coming months.

A record enrollment of more than 6,500 meant the hallways at each of the Schools were crowded with bustling boys and girls as they went from the morning carline drop off into their first classes. Several Schools held morning prayer services, setting the appropriate tone for the day.

Diocese of Venice Superintendent of Catholic Education, Jesuit Father John Belmonte, said Diocesan Catholic Schools work conscientiously to provide Christ-centered learning experiences that are transportable to the real world and provide the opportunity for children to develop life-long learning skills and to be successful beyond the classroom.

With enrollment up across the Diocese by more than 40 percent in the past four years, each School had summer projects to either reimagine the usage of existing space or to add portable classrooms. Many Schools also go through an annual upgrade of facilities such as renovating classrooms, putting in new flooring, adding new equipment and technology, while also applying fresh coats of paint.

“There has been a focused effort to let the community in on the secret that Diocese of Venice Catholic Schools provide a top-notch education at all grade levels,” Father Belmonte said. “There are exciting things happening in our Schools and families are taking notice.”

This includes the implementation of an inclusive STREAM (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Arts and Math) model into all classrooms while incorporating the Diocesan curriculum called, “The Gifts of Christ: Truth, Beauty, Goodness, Affability, Fortitude, Humility, and Prudence.” This is all part of an incorporated Diocesan robotics program which broadens the opportunities for each student.

This approach, fully supported through the generosity of Bishop Frank J. Dewane, places students ahead of the curve in primary fields while at the same time it continues to promote core Catholic virtues by helping students to develop cognitive thought processes and gain skills such as leadership, communication, complex problem solving, teamwork and creativity.

In the weeks before the students returned, teachers set up their classrooms for instruction and received safety training. The faculty and staff of the three Schools in Lee County – St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral, St. Francis Xavier Catholic School in Fort Myers, and Bishop Verot Catholic High School, also in Fort Myers – all gathered on Aug. 8 at St. Andrew for a joint retreat. This day includes a variety of fun activities and stresses the unity of the Schools in the region.

Each of the Diocesan Schools also hosted open houses for families the week before classes began. Some were exclusively for new students, while others were open to every family. These served as opportunities to meet new teachers, tour the School grounds and get a better idea (or reminder) of what is expected of both students and parents at Diocesan Catholic Schools.

In addition, at three of the Diocesan Catholic High Schools – Bishop Verot in Fort Myers, Cardinal Mooney in Sarasota, and St. John Neumann in Naples – there were special “Senior Sunrise” welcoming events for the graduating class of 2025. These gatherings take place on the respective football fields and are traditions at each of the Schools, and include breakfast, a class photo and some fun for everyone.

As the 2024-2025 Academic Year progresses, Father Belmonte has stressed that each School focuses on making this the “best year ever” for the students, families, faculty and staff.

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

Examining the Issues of the Day . . . In Church?! Yes!

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The Church’s Role in Matters of State

By Karen Barry Schwarz, Special to the Florida Catholic

Some have said that the Church has no place in politics, and it is true that the Church is non-partisan and would never presume to tell you for whom to vote. However, the Church plays an important role here, which is not only to encourage the faithful to carry out their responsibilities in political life, but to help them to do so regarding the issues.

Bishops, aided by priests, deacons, and lay ministry, must share pertinent Catholic Social Teaching and guidance on the moral dimensions of the issues of the day, particularly involving public decisions with real and lasting consequences.  Church Teaching and Mission, such as the defense of human life, the innate dignity of every human being, and dignity and the protection of the weak and vulnerable, must be shared, and advanced. These are but a few examples of what must be defended.

 History of the Catholic Church and The State

The close relationship between the Catholic Church and the state has a long history, dating all the way back to the year 494.  In the document Famuli Vestrae Pietatis, written by Pope Gelasius I to the Emperor, the Pope expresses that the Church and the state should work together in society, and that the state should recognize the Church’s role in society, with the Church holding superiority in moral matters, and the state in temporal matters.

More recently, the 1965 Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World (Gaudium et spes, “Joy and Hope”), points out that “the Church has always had the duty of scrutinizing the signs of the times and of interpreting them in the light of the Gospel.” Here the Church not only recognizes but also encourages the role of the laity in the life of the Church in the secular world, viewing the laity as much-needed agents of change in order to bring about a transformation of society more in line with Catholic teaching.

Catechism of the Catholic Church

The obligation to participate in political life is rooted in our Catholic Catechism, and in our baptismal commitment to follow Jesus Christ and to bear Christian witness in all we do.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church states:

  • It is necessary that all participate, each according to his/her position and role, in promoting the common good. This obligation is inherent in the dignity of the human person . . . As far as possible citizens should take an active part in public life (CCC 1913-1915).
  • The social duty of Christians is to respect and awaken in each man/woman the love of the true and the good . . . Christians are called to be the light of the world. Thus, the Church shows forth the kingship of Christ over all creation and in particular over human societies (CCC 2105).

Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship

To facilitate the Church’s role in shaping a moral society and getting involved in the issues of our time, the U.S. Bishops offer a teaching document to guide Catholics in the exercise of their rights and duties as participants in our democracy, Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship (https://www.usccb.org/offices/justice-and-peace/forming -consciences-faithful-citizenship).

“The obligation to teach the moral truths that should shape our lives, including our public lives, is central to the mission given to the Church by Jesus Christ. Moreover, the United States Constitution protects the right of individual believers and religious bodies to participate and speak up without government interference, favoritism, or discrimination. Indeed, our Church’s teaching is in accord with the foundational values that have shaped our nation’s history: ‘life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,’” the guide explains.

 From Bishop Frank J. Dewane

“The Church’s obligation to participate in civil discourse is a basic part of the mission we have received from Jesus Christ, who offers a vision of life revealed to us in Sacred Scripture and Tradition,” explains Bishop Frank J. Dewane. “As such, standing for, or against, issues that support or undermine Catholic values is a responsibility of all people of faith, including clergy. This kind of political participation reflects the social teaching of our Church and the best traditions of our nation.”

Bishop Dewane points to this election year, and specifically the dangerous and misleading pro-abortion amendment, Amendment 4, as things that should be top of mind for all Catholics in Florida right now.

“It is my hope that you will receive your Parish’s guidance regarding the issues of the day with an open heart, and an open mind, and that you will let your conscience guide your voting decisions this fall,” said Bishop Dewane. “Specifically, I hope you will vote no on the dangerous pro-abortion Amendment 4! When confronted with issues that represent a threat to our shared Catholic values, the Church must not be silent and simply cannot remain on the sidelines.”

Prayer

May God bless you as you consider and pray over your voting decisions in this Election Year. May God bless our nation with true wisdom, peace, and mutual forgiveness, that we may decide together, through our democratic processes, to uphold the dignity of life and the common good. Amen.

“You are the light of the world.” (Matthew 5:1)

 

5th Hispanic Emaus Congress draws big crowd

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Nearly 1,500 people spent a recent Saturday experiencing and growing their love for the Lord while also building up their profound sense of devotion to the Blessed Sacrament.

The 5th Emaus Congress took place Aug. 10, 2024, at the Turner-Agri Center in Arcadia. The event, which was in Spanish, was for those who have completed an Emmaus weekend retreat in the past and served as an opportunity to renew and recapture the fire that grew in them during their first retreat. During that retreat, participants learned a new way to live their life, as Jesus taught in the Gospel of Luke with a particular emphasis on the story about the Road to Emmaus.

Between the speakers and the music, there was a sense of community that everyone felt, making the day a huge success. Many commented on how uplifting and unifying the day was, bringing them closer to Jesus Christ in ways they did not expect.

“Beautiful!” “Amazing!” “Powerful” “I felt Christ’s love!” were just some of the reactions of particpants during the day. One woman from St. Agnes Parish in Naples sat in the front row and said she could not keep from smiling all day from dancing to every song. “I am so inspired and happy. What a wonderful day!”

The Congress, with the theme “Y Ellos lo Reconocieron al Partir el Pan (and they recognized Jesus when they broke the Bread),” built upon the retreat experience by presenting a series of speakers and music, inspiring the participants to leave changed for the better.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated Mass and first noted how the members of Emaus are a blessing to the Diocese. Present for the Congress were representatives from 27 different Parishes, and Bishop Dewane was impressed at how many are leaders at their Parish, some doing work that is visible, but many other doing good works behind the scenes.

“As followers of Jesus Christ, you give yourself to God, and you do it with joy,” Bishop Dewane said. “That joy comes from the knowledge that you are responding to a unique call. It is when we learn to share ourselves – the gifts the Lord has given – that we learn to help one another and to move about in that realm by recognizing the richness. As a community, be joyful in your response to the call of the Lord. Stand up and give that witness as to whom you are as men and women of God.”

Father Luis Pacheco, Spiritual Director for Hispanic Emaus and Administrator at St. Paul Parish in Arcadia, thanked the Bishop for his time in celebrating Mass for the Congress and for his ongoing support of the movement which inspires many throughout the Diocese to grow in their relationship with the Lord.

Father Pacheco said the goal of the Congress is to reinforce the benefits of the impactful retreats.

“This can fade over time,” Father Pacheco said. “This gathering is a renewal so that everyone will carry this message and bring their excitement back to their Parishes, spreading the message of the Lord to others.”

In his closing remarks, Bishop Dewane also encouraged everyone that they must be changed by their participation in the Congress and the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, as both were an encounter with Christ. “If we stay the same, we somehow missed that opportunity,” Bishop Dewane said. “Always be aware of each encounter with Christ in your life. Be changed and inspired to do the good for each other.”

The Emaus retreat program is a Diocesan-approved retreat weekend that takes place three times a year in both English and Spanish. It’s open to all men and women ages 20 or older seeking to grow in their relationship with Christ regardless of their present level of faith and practice. The purpose of the weekend is to give adults the opportunity to reflect upon themselves, their relationship with God and their community.

To learn more about Emaus retreats across the Diocese, contact your local Parish or email emmaus@dioceseofvenice.org.

News briefs for the week of August 16, 2024

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Catholic Charities Summertime Appeal continues

Every day, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., serves the most vulnerable population in the 10 counties that constitute the Diocese of Venice 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. Any 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 www.catholiccharitiesdov.org or mail a check to Catholic Charities, “Summertime and the Giving is Easy,” 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34285.

Monthly Days of Prayer at OLPH

The Monthly Days of Prayer at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center resume in September. Father Mark Yavarone, OMV, will be the presenter on Sept. 8, 2024, and Sept. 11. The topic is “Catholic Principles and Voting.”  The day begins at 9:30 a.m. with continental breakfast, and includes two conferences, lunch, Eucharistic Adoration, and opportunities for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, private meditation, and prayer. The day concludes with Mass that ends at 3:15 p.m. The topic is the same for both dates, so choose the day that works best for your schedule. OLPH is located at 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice. To register, please visit:// https://olph-retreat.org/monthly-day-of-prayer.

Evangelization Training in September

Would you like to know what authentic, non-confrontational, joyful evangelization looks and sounds like? If so, be sure to attend the upcoming workshop with St. Paul Street Evangelization Vice President Adam Janke from 9:00 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sept. 28, 2024, at Church of the Resurrection Parish, 8121 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers. Mass will be offered at 8 am in the Parish Chapel.   There will also be an optional “Live Lab” experience from 4 p.m.- 5 p.m., giving participants the chance to put into practice what they have just learned.  Saint Paul Street Evangelization is a non-profit, grassroots organization that has mobilized thousands of ordinary Catholics to take the Gospel to the public square and be instruments of God in the salvation of souls. The one-day Basic Evangelization Training with SPSE is open to all adult parishioners from any Catholic parish. Registration is $25 and includes light breakfast, lunch and all training materials. Please register at http://stpaulse.com/venice.

A Walk With Jesus For Grieving Parents retreat in October

The pain from grief can be extreme, but the death of a child is even more intense. Parents experience an emptiness like no other. If you are mourning the loss of a child (from infancy to adulthood), consider attending a Catholic faith-based weekend retreat from Oct. 11 until Sunday Oct. 13, 2024, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice. Deacon Henry De Mena will lead the Retreat. The cost is $150.00 per person based on double occupancy and $250.00 for single occupancy. Financial assistance is available. To register scan the QR code in the flier below and for further information contact Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseofvenice.org for further information.

Registration now open for fall Diocesan Marriage Conference

Calling all Catholic engaged and married couples!  Join Bishop Frank J. Dewane for the fourth annual Diocesan “Together in Holiness” marriage conference, 8 a.m. to 2:45 p.m., Oct. 19, 2024, at Church of the Resurrection of Our Lord Parish, 8121 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers. The Conference, a collaboration between the Diocese of Venice and the St. John Paul II Foundation, is a great opportunity for all Catholic engaged and married couples in the Diocese to gather for a day dedicated to prayer, conversation, fellowship, and reflection on the beautiful vocation of marriage.  Registration is now open for the day-long event which includes a Mass and Marriage Blessing celebrated by Bishop Dewane, and inspirational talks by Catholic speakers Renzo & Monica Ortega, Father Alex Pince and Mallory Smith. Childcare, as well as full and partial scholarships, are available, and Early Bird pricing is offered until Sept. 9.  To register or for further information, please visit https://forlifeandfamily.org/events/th24-vnfl/.

Apologetics in Evangelization Training in Fort Myers

Office of Evangelization is offering Apologetics training to enable all to have the fullness of Truth in Jesus and His Bride, the Catholic Church. Jesus has commanded us to go into the world and evangelize, to share our precious gift with others in your every-day-life. The non-profit organization St. Paul Street Evangelization (SPSE) has taken that call seriously by sharing the Gospel across the globe and teaching others how to do it too.  Join SPSE Vice President Adam Janke as he leads the one-afternoon training in incorporating solid Catholic apologetics into evangelization, in a winning, non-confrontational way from 12:30 p.m.- 4 p.m., Sept. 29, 2024, at Our Lady of the Angels Parish, 12905 State Road 70 East, Lakewood Ranch. The session will be open to all adult Catholic parishioners.  Registration is $25 and includes light breakfast, lunch and all training materials. Register online at http://stpaulse.com/venice.

Totus Tuus benefits 1,200+ – Young participants spend summertime growing closer to Christ

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Hearts are on fire for Jesus Christ for the more than 1,200 young faithful who took part in the Totus Tuus weekly sessions throughout the summer.

The goal of the Totus Tuus program is to help young people develop in their understanding of the faith and strengthen their relationship with Jesus Christ. Totus Tuus is a Latin phrase meaning “Totally Yours.” It was a motto of St. John Paul II, taken from St. Louis de Montfort’s “True Devotion to Mary.” It signifies our desire to give ourselves entirely to Jesus Christ through Mary.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane, who brought the Totus Tuus program to the Diocese of Venice in 2022, said the summer program has proven to be effective in uplifting children in ways which other, more traditional summer camps and religious education programs do not. Bishop Dewane has been impressed by the response each child has had to the uplifting program.

“Throughout the summer the Totus Tuus missionaries brought an excitement about the faith to different Parishes each week, helping to awaken in children of all ages a desire and enthusiasm for holiness,” Bishop Dewane said.

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

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

This summer, there were 10 missionaries who worked in two teams, though for Parishes with large groups of children the teams merged for the week. Twelve Parishes served as hosts through the seven-week program. The weeklong program was divided into two sessions, with the day component for students grades 1 – 6, and the evening session for middle school and high school students grades 7 – 12.

Lessons for the younger children build during the week as the children learn about the importance of prayer, and ways to pray, which includes the basics of the Our Father and Hail Mary through the Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary. This year, there was also a special emphasis on learning the key lessons of the Apostles’ Creed. In addition to dancing, music and prayer, the children had time for activities such as crafts and games.

The younger children participated in four classes each day, attended daily Mass, learned the parts and liturgical songs of Mass, and participated in games, skits, songs, recess and prayer. The older students participated in instruction, small group discussions, quiet meditations, prayer and fellowship and importantly had the opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation and Eucharistic Adoration.

The Totus Tuus missionaries went through an intensive training session in early June in preparation for the summer. By the end of the summer, each missionary left the Diocese feeling blessed by the experience.

Missionary Anne Moultrie, who is studying education at Ave Maria University, said the Totus Tuus program was an amazing experience as she quickly connected with students, from the youngest of her charges to the teens. She hopes to become a teacher, and this experience reinforced her desire to impart knowledge, particularly about the Catholic faith.

“It was a challenge, but most rewarding as the children embraced what we were teaching with their whole heart and soul,” Moultrie said. “It was a struggle to say good-bye to each group. To see the excitement and joy of the faith in a young face is so beautiful.”

“With the support of Bishop Dewane, the Parish Pastors, Parish lay leaders, and the missionaries, the Totus Tuus program continued to have great success here in the Diocese of Venice,” said Jim Gontis, Diocese of Venice Director of Evangelization. “Everyone worked together to help the young people find out that, besides everything else, the Catholic Faith can be fun!”

Gontis said the impact of the Totus Tuus summer program goes beyond reaching 1,206 children and youth. This includes reaching the families of the participants, the host Parishes, the volunteers and more. At least two program participants, he said, were encouraged to seek a conversion to the Catholic Faith through a Parish religious education program.

Looking forward, Gontis said that due to the ongoing success of the program, in 2025, the Diocese will be seeking to recruit an additional Totus Tuus missionary team. If this occurs, it is also hoped that the number of Parishes served will grow in number!

Parishes hosting Totus Tuus this summer were: St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, Parrish, and Our Lady of Grace, Avon Park (June 2-7); Ave Maria, Ave Maria (June 9-14); St. Finbarr, Naples, and St. Paul, Arcadia (June 16-21); Epiphany Cathedral, Venice, and St. Katharine Drexel, Cape Coral (June 23-28); Our Lady Queen of Heaven, LaBelle (July 7-12); Our Lady of Light, Fort Myers, and St. Cecilia, Fort Myers (July 14-19); Our Lady of the Angels, Lakewood Ranch, and St. Peter the Apostle, Naples (July 21-26).

Bishop blesses new additions to St. Joseph Catholic School

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Great things are awaiting the students at St. Joseph Catholic School in Bradenton when they arrive for the first day of school in the coming days. There have been upgrades to different classrooms but most importantly there is a new Early Learning Center for pre-school children, as well as a new playground and school bus.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane lead a prayer ceremony and blessing for the enhancements to St. Joseph Catholic School on July 31, 2024. Present for the ceremony were supporters of the school, as well as faculty, staff, and two select students.

“The Diocese and St. Joseph Catholic School are blessed and grateful to the teachers, faculty, staff and supporters, each for their desire to be part of the mission of instilling faith and knowledge in not only what is worldly but what is spiritual,” Bishop Dewane said. “Here at St. Joseph, you make them a greater person; individuals who will go forth and excel in the next step of their education, and in life.”

St. Joseph Principal Deborah Suddarth said every milestone in enrollment, upgrade to a classroom, or new equipment, makes the school and its students stronger, and is only made possible thanks to the generosity of the Bishop, the Diocesan Education Office and all the supporters of Catholic education including members of the school board, the Knights of Columbus, and many others.

“The portable classrooms, the new playground, the new bus, and so much more are the answer to a dream and help to make St. Joseph well-positioned to continue to grow in the future,” Suddarth said.

In addition to Bishop Dewane, other clergy present for the ceremony were Jesuit Father John Belmonte, Diocese of Venice Superintendent of Catholic Education, Father Rafal Ligenza, Pastor of St. Joseph Parish, Father Jim Simko, St. Joseph Parochial Vicar, and Father Sebastian Szczawinski, Pastor of Our Lady of the Angels Parish in Lakewood Ranch.

The new portable classrooms will house the Early Learning Center and will include six classrooms (each with their own bathroom), and will be used for pre-school students. The new structure replaced an old building that had been on the northwest side of the school campus for many years and had fallen out of use. With classes starting Aug. 12, the buildings will have a direct connection to the main school building with a covered walkway to allow protection from the sun and rain.

The new playground, which is next to the new portables, uses recycled materials with the surfaces padded for added safety and is also for use by the pre-school students. The new school bus will allow more flexible options for the school sports teams, field trips and possible transportation to and from school for families who live father away.

Principal Suddarth said the school also has a new covered basketball court, which will be used not only for basketball but also for pickleball and tennis. The STREAM (science, technology, religion, engineering, art and math) lab also received upgrades to include new 3D printers.

“All of these improvements have been made possible thanks to donors who had a dream for our school and our students, and then helped to make those dreams come true,” Suddarth said.

News Briefs for the week of August 9, 2024

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Appointments

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

Father Hugh J. McGuigan, O.S.F.S., relieved of his appointment as a member of the College of Consultors, effective July 1, 2024.

Msgr. Patrick Dubois, V.F., as a new member to the College of Consultors, effective July 1, 2024.

Father Simon Hoang Minh Dao, CRM, relieved of his duties as Parochial Vicar and Chaplain for the Vietnamese Community at St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers, effective July 13, 2024, and thus has returned to his Religious Community.

Father Joseph Than Van Liem, CRM, as Parochial Vicar and Chaplain for the Vietnamese Community at St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers, effective July 13, 2024.

Diocese celebrates 40th anniversary

On July 17, 1984, the Diocese of Venice was erected by St. John Paul II from parts of the Archdiocese of Miami, Diocese of Orlando and the Diocese of St. Petersburg. To celebrate the occasion of the Diocese’s 40th anniversary, the staff of the Diocesan Catholic Center gathered with Bishop Frank J. Dewane for a group photo in front of the Chancery on July 26, 2024, and then attended a special Mass for the staff, celebrated by Bishop Dewane, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center. A celebratory luncheon followed.

 

Diocese weathers Debby

Torrential rain and strong winds battered parts of the Diocese of Venice when Hurricane Debby paralleled the coast on Aug. 3-5, 2024. While there was flooding at many properties in Sarasota and Manatee Counties, Diocesan Parish and Catholic school staff worked hard to mitigate the impacts of any water intrusion. One of the starkest examples of flooding was found at Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School in Sarasota which had several feet of water on their fields after an estimated 16-inches of rain fell. Ss. Peter and Paul the Apostle Parish in Bradenton had a leak in one of its buildings, which caused minor damage. Flood waters surrounded Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice but did not cause any damage. The retreat center was devastated by extreme flooding in 2022 during Hurricane Ian.

Marriage retreat held in Lake Placid

The Dialogo Matrimonial MDS retreat took place the weekend of Aug. 3-5, 2024, in Lake Placid. The purpose of the group is to support and assist in the spiritual growth of couples and marriages. Marriage Dialogue is a weekend experience starting Friday afternoon through Sunday afternoon. This experience gives couples the opportunity to celebrate their married life by giving them time to share their feelings, hopes, joys, frustrations, sorrows, and dreams in a completely private atmosphere and out of reach of the stresses and distractions of daily life. During the weekend there are talks given by a team of trained couples. Each talk provides an opportunity for spouses to first see themselves as individuals different from each other, then to see their marriage and relationship as a couple, and finally to develop other areas of their married life. In the movement the motto is: “With Jesus everything is possible, and it is not necessary to change your partner, you just need to change your attitude.” All topics of the retreat have as reference the Word of God, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, as well as other relevant books and resources.

Catholic Charities Summertime Appeal continues

Every day, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., serves the most vulnerable population in the 10 counties that constitute the Diocese of Venice 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. Any 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 www.catholiccharitiesdov.org or mail a check to Catholic Charities, “Summertime and the Giving is Easy,” 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34285.

Theology on Tap on August 15 in Sarasota

The next Theology on Tap, an outreach to young adults, is 7 p.m., Aug. 15, 2024, in a new location, Big Top Brewing – Restaurant & Brewery, 3045 Fruitville Commons Boulevard, Sarasota. Theology on Tap meets on the third Thursday of each month. The featured speaker for August 15 is Jim Gontis, Diocese of Venice Director of Evangelization, and the topic will be “Four Marian Dogmas.” Theology on Tap is presented by the Diocesan Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry. For more information, contact Andres Prias at prias@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-484-9543.

New Podcast Focuses on Amendment 4

The podcast of the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops, Catholics Across the Aisle: Commentary on Public Policy and Civic Life, brings a non-partisan moral voice to public dialogue on key policy issues of the day and assists listeners to become educated and active participants in civic life. The podcast’s latest episode focuses on the urgent issue of Amendment 4. Sara Johnson, statewide grassroots director for Vote No on 4 Florida, and Michele Taylor, FCCB’s associate director for communications, discuss deceptive and extreme Amendment 4. This amendment on Florida’s general election ballot would allow late-term abortions and jeopardize health and safety protections for women and minors. It removes doctors from the abortion decision, includes a broad “health” loophole, and eliminates parental consent. Hear more on why Floridians should vote NO on Amendment 4 on this new episode of Catholics Across the Aisle.

Convocation invigorates seminarians – Many new faces discerning priesthood

Posted on by Bob Reddy

For three days each summer there is a gathering of men of different ages and backgrounds, each dedicated to a common goal – continuing their spiritual journey with a focus on becoming a Diocesan priest.

Some are in a seminary college formation program, while others are in advanced programs farther along in their journey, with potential Ordination to the Priesthood not too far off.

During the annual Diocese of Venice Seminarian Convocation at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice (July 22-24, 2024), the men spent time praying, reflecting on their choice of vocation, while also sharing their thoughts and their personal journey with others who are on the same path.

There are currently a total of 18 men discerning a call to the priesthood as a Diocese of Venice seminarian, a large number considering the size of the Diocese. Bishop Frank J. Dewane said the Diocese is blessed to have such a large group of seminarians and thanked the men for answering the called to discern a vocation to the priesthood.

Bishop Dewane celebrated a Mass for the seminarians on July 24. During the Mass, the Bishop encouraged the men to continue to hear the call to holiness of Our Lord in their prayers, while reflecting Christ in the life they live.

The Bishop also stressed the need to make progress both emotionally and spiritually as they progress in their studies and discernment,

“You need to progress from ‘I feel,’ to ‘I am convinced,” about the call of the Lord in your life,” Bishop Dewane said. “It is critical to know yourself – your strengths and weaknesses – to continue in your discernment. It is about looking at our own conscience and asking the Lord for the strength to live, to discern, to listen, and to look back and grow as a person, but more importantly in your faith so that you can look forward guided by the Lord.”

Bishop Dewane said the goal of the discernment process is not only to educate the men, but it is also to allow the time to slow their lives down and let the clutter go away so that they can clearly hear the call of the Lord. The way to do this is through becoming men of deep prayer.

“A meaningful prayer life is something that you will develop and will become a dominant aspect of your life,” Bishop Dewane concluded. “Let prayer help the seeds planted by the Lord grow within you. Just like the seeds in the field, it takes many things to grow, including the will and recognition of the grace of God in your life.”

The multi-day retreat occurs late in the summer as a time of prayer and reflection before each return to their respective seminary. During the three days, the seminarians were led by Father Alex Pince, Diocesan Vocations Director.

With the group assigned to four different seminaries, and with several beginning their vocation journey, the gathering is an opportunity for those early in their formation process to hear from those who are further along. This mentoring helps in building a bond amongst the group, aiding each to appreciate that the discernment process is not only accomplished in the classroom but through the entire experience in seminary, during Parish pastoral assignments, and in their personal life.

Seminarian Joseph Doherty, who attends Pontifical North American College in Rome, said it was inspiring to see the other men making progress while also seeing so many new faces.

“It is great to see that we have a large group of new men who are answering their call to a vocation to the priesthood,” Doherty said. He is scheduled to be ordained to the Transitional Diaconate on Oct. 3 in Rome. This is a major milestone before priestly ordination.

A recent highlight for the seminarians was witnessing the June 8 Ordination to the Priesthood of Father Greg Dougherty, with many of the men present to help serve the Mass. This allowed the men to see one of their fellow seminarians reach a goal they are working to attain in the future.

Diocese of Venice Seminarians are supported through the Diocese Catholic Faith Appeal, the Knights of Columbus and the generosity of the faithful.

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

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

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

  • Transitional Deacon Jacob Gwynn, St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary, Boynton, Beach;
  • Transitional Deacon Patrick Long, St. John XXIII National Seminary, Weston, Massachusetts;
  • Ryan Arciero, St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary;
  • Alexander Baugh, Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary;
  • Andres Cordero, St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary;
  • Joseph Doherty, Pontifical North American College, Rome;
  • Nolan Fitzpatrick; St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary;
  • Terry Gastauer; Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary;
  • Jesse Gomez; St. John Vianney College Seminary, Miami;
  • Sebastian Harding; St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary;
  • Domenic Jahnke; St. John Vianney College Seminary;
  • Tobias Lopez, St. John Vianney College Seminary’
  • Patrick Mulhall, St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary;
  • Brian (Bao) Nguyen, St. John XXIII National Seminary;
  • Doroteo Rodgriguez, St. John Vianney College Seminary;
  • Tam Tram, St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary;
  • Alain Valdivia, St. John Vianney College Seminary;
  • Lam Vo, St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary.

 

Prayer for Vocations

God our Father, we thank you for calling men and women to serve in your Son’s Kingdom as priests, deacons, religious, and consecrated persons. Send your Holy Spirit to help us respond generously and courageously to your call. May our community of faith support vocations of sacrificial love in our youth. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

Amen.

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