Tag: blessing

Bishop begins longer visits to Catholic schools

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Bob Reddy, Florida Catholic

The Zazarino Center was packed with students, faculty and parents from St. Mary Academy and St. Martha Catholic School in anticipation of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass on Sept. 17, 2026.

Bishop Emilio E. Biosca, O.F.M. Cap., was the celebrant for the Mass, his second Catholic school Mass since his July 11 ordination, but the first that included a lengthy visit.

The purpose of the longer visit was to first learn about the history of the schools, Bishop Emilio explained. Then learning how the schools are currently functioning.

“It is also about learning about your hopes and dreams, and to learn about any difficulties you might be having,” Bishop Emilio said. “Also, how the Diocese of Venice can make Catholic schools stronger in educational ways as well as in the faith, which is the reason these schools exist in the first place.”

Bishop Emilio offered a brief personal history and explained how his parents ensured that no matter their financial standing he and his sisters each went to Catholic schools in Virginia while they were growing up.

“I went to St. Anthony’s in Falls Church, St. Leo in Fairfax, and Bishop O’Connell High School in Arlington,” the bishop said. “I have clear memories of praying the rosary outside, every week.”

While in high school, Bishop Emilio said that he was privileged to meet St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta, and her message to the students was to “‘always love your brothers and sisters; and love the one you are close to.’ That is a powerful lesson for all students.”

At the conclusion of the Mass, Bishop Emilio was presented with hand-made greeting cards from the students, randomly picking one out which welcomed him to the diocese and warning him to be wary of alligators.

Following the Mass, Bishop Emilio greeted the parents during an informal reception. He then met with the leadership including St. Mary Principal Rebecca Reynolds and St. Martha Principal Mari Jo Hanson.

The tour opened with a gathering in the school chapel of eighth graders from both schools. There, Bishop Emilio fielded a wide variety of questions, with many focusing on his life as a Capuchin priest.

When asked about what it is like to be a bishop, Bishop Emilio said, “I’m still getting used to it. Right now, it is easier than where I was before at a very busy parish. Like my time in the missions (Papua New Guinea and Cuba), I come with the idea that I will never leave. This is because to do your work as the Shepherd of the Diocese, you cannot be connected to the people if you are disconnected and distracted by outside things. It is important to be where you are supposed to be.”

The bishop explained that his favorite part about being a bishop is when he has time to speak to people after Mass and they share their personal spiritual journey.

“It’s hearing how God was working in their life and led them along the way,” Bishop Emilio said. “God can work through all the different kind of variables in our lives, and He speaks to people’s hearts. That is always good to remember as we deal with life.”

The bishop spoke about his recent travels to Italy where he spent time participating in a new bishop course at the Vatican which culminated in a meeting with Pope Leo XIV.

Bishop Emilio said that while in Italy he spent time at the tombs of apostles Ss. Peter and Paul, as well as those of several popes, carrying with him the prayers of the faithful of the Diocese of Venice, including those of the students in diocesan Catholic schools.

Throughout the rest of the day, Bishop Emilio visited as many classrooms as was practical, first visiting the pre-kindergarten-4 students just prior to their nap time. These young students presented him with a gift, a framed image of the cross which read, “Welcome Bishop Emilio” at the top and the cross held the colored fingerprints of each student.

Other highlights of the visit included one student proclaiming that after shaking hands with Bishop Emilio he would not be washing that hand ever again. The bishop assured him he would make sure to visit the school often and it was ok to wash his hand. While visiting the outdoor playground, Bishop Emilo had time to bless rosaries that were made by fourth grade students.

Bishop Emilio praised principals Reynolds and Hanson on their respective schools and ensured them that he would be returning often.

Catechists commissioned to share faith

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Bob Reddy, Florida Catholic

Catechists throughout the country were united and recognized on Catechetical Sunday, Sept. 20, 2026, for the important role they play in the mission of the Catholic Church.

These catechists impart the faith upon people of all ages either in parish religious education programs or in Catholic schools.

The 2026 theme for Catechetical Sunday was “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me… to bring good news to the poor” Lk 4:18. The passage reveals Jesus’ mission and identity. Anointed by the Holy Spirit, he is sent to bring hope, healing, and freedom – especially to the poor, the brokenhearted, and the forgotten.

At Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Venice, Bishop Emilio E. Biosca, O.F.M. Cap., celebrated the Mass and presided over the commissioning of about two dozen catechists.

Bishop Emilio said the catechists play a crucial role in helping those seeking sacraments and religious education to see how God works in their lives.

“The stories of catechumens and candidates reveal how God is so generous and merciful. He comes back, time and time again, inviting us to be a part of His Church,” Bishop Emilio said. “Each of us is called to be witness to the Gospel. Today you renew your commitment in this beautiful mission.”

Bishop Emilio then offered the commissioning prayer: “With your fatherly blessing, Lord, strengthen these servants of yours in their resolve to dedicate themselves as catechists. Grant that they will strive to share with others what they themselves derive from pondering your Word and studying the Church’s teaching. And let them gladly join those they teach in honoring and serving your name.”

Following the prayer, Bishop Emilio blessed the catechists with holy water. This took place at parishes throughout the Diocese of Venice. For example, there were 41 catechists who were commissioned at St. Paul Parish, Arcadia.

All religious education programs across the diocese are either already running or starting by mid-October for the faithful of all ages. Some classes are working on requirements necessary to receive the various sacraments, while others are continuing their religious education, which never formally concludes.

 

Bishop tour nears end

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Bob Reddy, Staff Report

As the tour of Bishop Emilio E. Biosca, O.F.M. Cap. to each of the Diocese of Venice parishes continues, the admiration and respect for the new Shepherd of the Diocese has been palpable, and inspiring.

After Mass on Aug. 23, 2026, at Our Lady of Light Parish, Fort Myers, Bishop Emilio spent about an hour greeting the faithful, something that has regularly occurred during parish visits, either following a Mass or at a reception.

Many offered their congratulations and prayers to the new bishop. For some, the interaction with Bishop Emilio is quick, often with a photo taken, while others ask about possible connections, including: the chance the new bishop knows a particular Franciscan priest, mutual acquaintance, or family members; inquiries about parishes in Pennsylvania (home of the Capuchin Province the bishop is part of), Northern Virginia (where he grew up), Washington, D.C. (where his most recent assignment was), as well as Cuba (where he served for 12 years); and more. In addition, some seek prayers or words of comfort from Bishop Emilio, while others ask him to bless religious articles.

All who have interacted with Bishop Emilio leave with a smile and a cherished memory.

At Our Lady of Light, as well as at many other parishes, the bishop met with and had a meal with the staff and key volunteers. During these times, the bishop shares some thoughts about his life as a Capuchin missionary as well as experiences from previous parish visits. He also encourages questions of any type, jokingly saying that none have been trick questions, while offering honest answers. He also admits that he is still learning about the Diocese, its people, its priests, its religious, and its parishes.

Between Aug. 21 and 27, Bishop Emilio visited nine parishes bringing the total to 57 since his Episcopal Ordination on July 11.

Due to the timing of each visit, either a weekday or weekend morning or afternoon, each parish visit has been unique, some including the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass and parish celebrations, while others have been less formal visits with priests and parish staff.

Bishop Emilio has stressed that more formal visits will take place at a later time, with more advanced notice so more people can participate.

The new bishop’s intention for this tour of the diocese is to visit the priests, deacons, religious and faithful at their parishes to get to know them in their own place, before traveling to Rome for a new bishops’ formation course and retreat in early September.

Bishop Emilio said he will take the prayers and hopes of the people of the Diocese to the tombs of St. Peter and St. Paul at that time.

The tour is a quick way for the bishop to get a “lay of the land,” and a first missionary orientation to the Diocese.  A visit to each school will follow in late September and October.

Upcoming parish visits include the following: (Aug. 28), St. Leo the Great, Bonita Springs, and St. Cecilia, Fort Myers; and (Aug. 30), St. Finbarr and St. Agnes, Naples.

Please check with the local parish for a schedule of public events.

Catholic school multi-purpose building breaks ground

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Bob Reddy, Florida Catholic

Ground was broken on a new state-of-the-art multi-purpose facility being constructed for St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral.

Bishop Emilio Biosca Agüero, O.F.M. Cap., presided over the groundbreaking on July 25, 2026. “Having been ordained just two weeks, this is my first groundbreaking and I will always remember it was at St. Andrew’s. I will be anxious to follow all of the progress of the building and certainly for the school, the community, the children and the families.”

After a prayer of blessing, Bishop Emilio blessed the people and then the ground with holy water before he was joined by others in the ceremonial groundbreaking.

Bambi Giles, principal of St. Andrew Catholic School welcomed Bishop Emilio and noted the project had been in planning for a long time and was made possible through the support of the parish pastor, Father Eduardo Coll, and the abundant generosity of the St. Andrew school and parish family. The school has seen tremendous growth in the past four years, from about 300 students to more than 620 for the coming academic year.

“Today, we’re not just breaking ground for a new building – we are laying the foundation for future generations of students, families and parishioners,” Giles said. “We celebrate what we are building, and why we are building it – to ensure that St. Andrew Catholic School continues to ‘Build Faith, Hearts and Minds’ forming our young disciples of Christ for generations to come.”‍ ‍

The new two-story, 30,000-square-foot facility represents a transformational investment in the future of St. Andrew Catholic School. The building will feature a full-size gymnasium, nine classrooms, and nine flexible-use learning spaces designed to support academics, athletics, faith formation, student enrichment, parish activities, and community events. The additional space will also enhance the school’s ability to serve students with diverse learning needs while allowing the parish hall to be returned to parish ministry. The construction is expected to be completed by the start of the 2027-28 school year.

“This is a defining moment in the history of St. Andrew,” said Father Coll. “This project reflects our commitment to investing in our children, strengthening our parish community, and ensuring that Catholic education continues to thrive for generations to come.”

Community leaders, benefactors, parishioners, alumni, faculty, students, families, and friends of St. Andrew were invited to join in celebrating the exciting milestone.

Distinguished guests who broke ground with Bishop Emilio included Father Coll, Principal Giles, and two sets of co-chairs for the capital campaign, Deacon Rick and Paula Hellenbrand, as well as Tim and Melissa Altieri, Doug Oliver, president of Compass Construction, Ian Moore, vice president of Compass Construction, Dan Beeman, Diocese of Venice Director of Construction and Buildings, and Mary Ann Nielsen, parish business manager.

To learn more about the St. Andrew Catholic School Capital Campaign, please visit Capital Campaign — St. Andrew Catholic School.

Memorial Garden blessed and dedicated in Sarasota

Posted on by Bob Reddy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A reception followed in the Parish Hall.

Cathedral’s new church bells blessed

Posted on by Bob Reddy

To the cheers of the faithful, Bishop Frank J. Dewane presided over the Blessing of the Bells at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice on May 16, 2026.

Bishop Dewane was joined by the clergy and more than 500 of the faithful of Epiphany Cathedral and the Diocese of Venice for the Blessing of the Bells that will be installed as part of the reconstruction of the Cathedral.

The Mayor of Venice, the Honorable Nick Pachota, was also present for this joyous occasion, as well as Brian Baker, President of Baker Liturgical Art. Baker Liturgical Art, a leading nationwide company dedicated to liturgical design, restoration and renovation, was commissioned by Bishop Dewane to complete a major restoration and renovation of Epiphany Cathedral, including the creation of a 75-foot bell tower and four custom cast bronze church bells.

The bells are of particular significance, as they represent more than simply architectural additions; they are living instruments of praise, inviting hearts to prayer and lifting the soul toward heaven.

“The unmistakable peal of church bells calls all to the celebration of the liturgy and to prayer,” Bishop Dewane said. “Bells alert us to important events in the life of the Church and the community: Mass, prayer, weddings, funerals. This is a historic moment not only for Epiphany’s Cathedral’s parishioners, but for the entire Diocese, as it marks a significant milestone in the renovation and rejuvenation of the Cathedral of the Diocese of Venice.”

In addition to blessing the bells with holy water, Bishop Dewane also chimed the largest bell with a hammer, the beautiful sound reverberating through the delighted crowd.

For centuries tradition has called for church bells to be not only blessed but also named, as they represent “the voice of God,” calling people to worship. Alternatively, it has been said that church bells represent the voice of the faithful, calling out to God. Naming bells can be traced back to the year 968, when Pope John XIII dedicated a bell to St. John the Baptist.

“Epiphany Cathedral’s new bells have been named in recognition of the Catholic Solemnity of The Epiphany, celebrated on January 6, marking the revelation of Jesus Christ as the Son of God and Savior of the world,” explained Msgr. Patrick Dubois, Rector of Epiphany Cathedral. “The four bells are named after the Magi, or Wise Men, who visited Jesus at His birth, as well as after the Star that led the Magi to Jesus. Hence the bells will be called Melchior, Gaspar, Balthazar and The Star of Bethlehem.”

The new church bells are made of cast bronze and together weigh 3,658 lbs. They were crafted by Marinelli Pontifical Bell Foundry of Agnone, Italy, the oldest bell foundry in the world, now in its 27th generation as a family-run business. The Marinelli bells are well-known for their elegant form and distinctive, resonant sound, and are richly decorated with custom inscriptions and artistic reliefs, including the Diocese of Venice Crest. They will be installed in a new 75-foot bell tower at Epiphany Cathedral later this summer.

For many this blessing of the bells showed exciting forward progress in the ongoing reconstruction of Epiphany Cathedral. One woman in attendance at the special ceremony exclaimed that the blessing of the bells was an important milestone for the project which has been in progress for two years. “What a beautiful sound to hear that bell ring. This is very exciting. Next will be the dedication of the new Cathedral. I cannot wait.”

The renovation and reconstruction of Epiphany Cathedral began in June 2024, and work is expected to be completed by Thanksgiving this year. Among the major new aspects of the Cathedral will be a marble reredos (altarpiece) with a large-scale mosaic of the Epiphany, and new liturgical appointments including altar, ambo, throne, cathedra, baptismal font, stained glass windows, mosaic stations of the cross, new pews, and more. In addition, a statue of the pieta will be added adjacent to the Memorial Garden, which will remain undisturbed.

Following the blessing, most of those present took the opportunity to join a special tour of the inside of the Cathedral construction site, led by Msgr. Dubois. Many were awed by the new vaulted ceiling and the Italian marble that has been installed on the altar and were encouraged to see how much progress has already been made, all eager for the day the work is completed. Since the reconstruction began, Mass has been held in the Parish Hall, the original Epiphany Parish church.

Some naming opportunities for the bells and other liturgical elements are still available. To learn more, visit www.epiphanycathedral.org/naming-opportunities, or contact William Slayton at slayton@epiphanycathedral.org or call 941-615-0284.

Youth Center blessed in Fort Myers

Posted on by Bob Reddy

After much work and prayer, and little bit of time, the faithful of St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers gathered for the blessing of the newly constructed St. John Bosco Youth Center.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane presided over the Youth Center blessing on April 26, 2026. “We pray that the Word of God will always echo from its walls,” Bishop Dewane said. “We bless all who will use this Youth Center, and that all who come here know the presence of Christ, experience the joy of His friendship and grow in His love.”

During the blessing, Bishop blessed the people, including dozens of youth who will benefit from the Center, and then the facility. In addition, he blessed a plaque dedicated to Marilyn Brummer, whose generous gift helped to make the Youth Center possible. Two family members were present for the blessing and dedication.

Father Jay Raju, Pastor of St. John XXIII, Father Raju thanked the Bishop for supporting the project, ensuring its success.

Father Raju also thanked all who contributed to making the Youth Center possible. “Many in our community have been generous with their dedication, skills, and talents, in finally being able to celebrate the long-awaited completion of the Youth Center. I appreciate everyone’s role in bringing this project to life and helping transform it into such a beautiful building; a home for future generations to nurture faith and leadership.”

Laura Cerna, Youth Council President, and part of the Faith In Action Team (F.I.A.T), a group responsible for planning youth and family events for the Parish, welcomed everyone to the grand opening and said she prays it becomes a space filled with laughter, learning, and a strong sense of community.

Kinsey Peplinski, F.I.A.T. co-event coordinator, quoted the Gospel of Matthew, “Where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in the midst of them (Matthew 18:20).” This will be a place of prayer, joy, faith, friendship and growth, guiding our youth who are walking through life today and for years to come.”

Kelly Evers, Coordinator of Youth & Young Adult Ministry, said it was “a glorious day for our youth and for our Parish.”

Evers said the Youth Center has been in the planning stages for many years and its completion can be traced back to the first Parish Youth Councils seeking a place to call their own. “We’ve come a long way since then. Isn’t it wonderful. We have such a generous Parish and we are blessed to have so many families.”

The Youth Center is named for an Italian Saint who was a priest and educator in the 19th century and includes a large gathering room, as well as smaller meeting spaces. There is also a covered pavilion for outdoor gatherings, as well as facilities for games, such as volleyball, and other fun. Eventually, the outside of the building will have mosaics and a statue of St. Carlo Acutis, the newest Catholic saint who was canonized by Pope Leo XIV on Sept. 7, 2025. St. Carlo was an Italian teen who died in 2006 at the age of 15 and was known for his devotion to the Most Holy Eucharist and his use of digital media to promote Eucharistic Miracles around the world and is recognized as the first 21st Century Saint.

Following the blessing, the Youth Praise and Worship Team performed music, while pizza and refreshments were offered. In addition, a round-robin volleyball tournament took place, with Father Raju joining in the fun.

Championship rings presented to Mooney football team

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School Class 2A state championship football team from Sarasota was recognized during a Ring Ceremony in the school gymnasium on April 23, 2026.

The players, coaches, cheer team, and support staff were each presented with a championship ring. The ring is emblazoned with a Cougar head logo enameled in gold and black in the center; State Champions written in gold on either side; and diamond chips throughout.

The Cougars took the Class 2A title in December 2025 after finishing the year with a 14-1 record. The championship was the team’s second in three years (2023), and third overall (1972).

The rings were blessed by Father Michael Scheip, with Mooney Principal Ben Hopper, and Head Coach Jared Clark presenting the rings. Each player was hugged by Clark and the other coaches. Many family members, students and teachers were present for the ceremony cheering on the championship team.

“You know I look out at the team and the parents and I just feel blessed,” Clark told reporters following the ceremony. “The 2025 team was a special team. I think it’s the most talented team that we’ve ever had here in the history of the school.”

Senior Center Ethan Salata, wearing two championship rings (2023 and 2025), told reporters, “You know, it’s the second one, but this team’s a lot different than the first one… we really came out together as one, and grew a lot throughout the year.”

Senior Cornerback Hayden Pettit added, “I think that we can just look back at this moment, and it will remind us of our friends and stuff, and what we did here, and how special this was.”

To win the Class 2A state championship the Cougars defeated the Bolles School of Jacksonville 52-28 in a game played Dec. 10, 2025, in Miami. Cardinal Mooney won the state championship in 2023, then fell in the state semifinal in 2024. Previously, Cougar football teams only made it this far in the playoffs a few times, earning a state title in 1972 and reaching the semifinals in 2006.

The championship team was led by quarterbacks Davin Davidson, who finished the season with 2,192 yards passing, and 21 passing touchdowns, and Devin Mignery, who had 348 yards, 4 touchdown passes, while also rushing for 423 yards and an additional touchdown.

The leading rusher was Connail Jackson, who had 190 carries, for 2,547 yards, and 39 touchdowns. The top receiver was Kymistrii Young, who led the way with 42 receptions for 936 yards and 8 touchdowns.

The defense was led by KJ Brown, with 109 tackles; and Jayden Burnett, with 102 tackles. Elijah Golden had 67 tackles, including 14 sacks, while Bryce Fulda had 59 tackles, including 13 sacks. Vantrez Yarn led the team with 7 interceptions.

The Cougars finished their 2025 championship season ranked by MaxPreps as the No. 6 team in the State of Florida, and No. 60 in the nation.

New Catechetical Center blessed in Fort Myers

Posted on by Bob Reddy

A new Catechetical Center at San Jose Mission in Fort Myers was dedicated and blessed by Bishop Frank J. Dewane March 22, 2026, the Fifth Sunday of Lent.

The building was dedicated to the people of the Parish and replaces what was destroyed during Hurricane Ian in 2022.

Bishop Dewane, who celebrated the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass prior to the dedication and blessing, said the new Catechetical Center will serve many purposes for the community, but most importantly to pass on the faith to following generations.

“This is where the young will learn of their Catholic Faith and the adults will deepen their commitment to live as Christ has taught us,” Bishop Dewane said.

As part of the blessing, Bishop Dewane said, “We pray that the Word of God will be echoed in these walls… we bless all who will use this Catechetical Center, and pray that all who come here know the presence of Christ, experience the joy of His friendship and grow in His love.”

Bishop Dewane blessed the people of San Jose Mission with holy water before entering the building, saying, “Let this blessing flow to all of you also.”

A large crowd present for the dedication and blessing cheered when the ceremony was concluded. Many then visited the building which houses four classrooms and has a prayer garden at its base. The building, made from portable classrooms, was built and is elevated about 8-feet about the ground, as the area was severely flooded during Hurricane Ian.

Father Benjamin Casimir, who is the Administrator of San Jose Mission and its parent Parish, Jesus the Worker, thanked Bishop Dewane for taking time out of his busy schedule to bless the new building. “This community has been through a great deal since Hurricane Ian, and this is an important milestone in our recovery.”

Sister Rosemary Le, FMI, Director of Religious Education for the Mission and Parish, expressed her joy at having new classrooms and meeting spaces for the young people of San Jose. “It is so beautiful. I can’t wait to prepare it for the children to encounter Christ every time they come here.”

A celebratory luncheon followed the blessing.

Groundbreaking held for affordable housing in Immokalee

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Bishop Frank J. Dewane presided over a groundbreaking ceremony for the Casa San Juan Diego Affordable Housing Multifamily Development on March 16, 2026, in Immokalee.

This thoughtfully planned garden-style apartment community will offer 80 modern residences, featuring a balanced mix of 40 spacious three-bedroom and 40 comfortable two-bedroom units in land adjacent to Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish.

The Diocese of Venice partnered on the project with National Development of America, Inc. (NDA), and was supported by the Collier County Human Services Division, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Also present for the ceremony were Father Teofilo Ramirez Moreno, CS, Pastor of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, and Father David Vidal, Pastor of nearby Ave Maria Parish, as well as Collier County officials including County Commissioner William L. McDaniel Jr., Christie Bettencourt of the Immokalee Community Redevelopment Agency and several others from various agencies.

Bishop Dewane first explained how the community’s name relates to the sacred connection between St. Juan Diego and his visions of Our Lady of Guadalupe, the name of the neighboring Parish Church.

Immokalee is a rural farming community in Collier County that lies northwest of Naples and southeast of Fort Myers. Many in the community work in the agriculture industry and safe, affordable housing is scarce.

“The Diocese is building this community because we want to offer a safe place for families to live that recognizes a certain human dignity possessed by every person,” Bishop Dewane said. “We each know what it all meant to us to have a safe and secure home growing up. The Diocese is trying to make a difference here. Housing is an important issue throughout Immokalee and other communities. By creating this housing, families with children will stay together.”

As part of the blessing, Bishop Dewane added, “The work we do here will continue to build up the Lord’s Kingdom. May the Lord bless all who will occupy this housing.” Fathers Ramirez Moreno and Vidal both assisted in the blessing of the property.

John Raymond of NDA explained the multi-year process to get the project moving forward to its current construction. He praised Bishop Dewane and the ongoing partnership between the Diocese and NDA for building affordable housing communities across the region.

“They are going to be class A, yet affordable apartments creating a foundation for children and families to thrive,” Raymond said.

Commissioner McDaniel offered praise to the Bishop for having the commitment to create the project and he said he was proud to be a small part of something so good for Immokalee.

Each apartment is designed with contemporary finishes, including granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and private balconies. Residents will also enjoy access to inviting community amenities such as an outdoor recreation area and a welcoming clubhouse, ideal for gatherings and relaxation. With its focus on quality, community, and comfort, Casa San Juan Diego is set to become a vibrant and integral part of the Immokalee neighborhood. Estimated completion is May 2027.

While the monthly rates are not currently set, the ranges will be about half of the market rate for Immokalee. Application information will be made available closer to the completion of the project.

Casa San Juan Diego is just the latest joint-project between the Diocese and NDA. Previously, they worked together to build Casa San Juan Bosco I & II, consisting of 97 duplex homes used for farmworker housing in Arcadia, and later the adjacent St. John Paul II Villas, a 64-unit senior housing complex. Other projects include St. Peter Claver Place, a 208-unit affordable housing community in Fort Myers, Casa San Alfonso, an affordable housing community in Zolfo Springs, and San Pedro at Meadow Park affordable housing in Arcadia. An additional affordable housing project is currently in development for Bowling Green.

In addition, the Diocese has built several low-income elderly housing communities in Sarasota (2), Fort Myers (4), Port Charlotte (2), and Palmetto (2). Partnering with Catholic Charities, the Diocese created the Family Haven transitional emergency housing for individuals or families in need in North Port and Englewood, as well as Our Mother’s House, a transitional living program for mom’s with young children.

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