Tag: catholic center

Expect great things from our new shepherd

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Story in Spanish below – La historia en español aparece a continuación

Bob Reddy, Florida Catholic

The road that has led Bishop Emilio Biosca Agüero, O.F.M. Cap., to the Diocese of Venice in Florida as its third shepherd has had many varied and interesting turns.

Bishop Emilio comes to the diocese with strong family values, instilled in him in during his childhood and influenced through family ties in Cuba; the formation into a man of God as part of the Capuchin Franciscan religious order; the rewarding and enlightening missionary work in the jungles of Papua New Guinea and then communist Cuba; and leading a diverse and thriving Shrine of the Sacred Heart parish in the nation’s capital.

What is known is that great things are expected as Bishop Emilio takes the reigns of the Diocese of Venice.

“I come to this role as the bishop of Venice to proclaim the Gospel in a way that is joyful, positive and well instructed,” Bishop Emilio said. “I approach this new ministry, trusting in God. I am seeing there is a need for evangelization so the Gospel can take root.”

The bishop said he wants to encourage all to carve out time for silence and prayer in their life, “so that we can hear something that is different from our own voice. That is creating some kind of time of silence, of prayer, of actually having the ability to pick up the bible at any time and read it. Pray the rosary. Go to mass. We have to organize our life in a way that God can speak to us, so we are able to listen, instead of having everything (devices, television, etc.) on all the time.”

Bishop Emilio was born December 15, 1964, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, to Emilio Rodolfo Biosca and Maria del Carmen Agüero who were recent immigrants from Cuba. The third of seven children, his two older sisters were born in Cuba. He was baptized on Dec. 25, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Pueblo, Colorado.

The family first resided in Pueblo, Colorado, then Kansas City, Missouri, where his father, already a practicing dentist in Cuba, worked and studied, graduating from the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) School of Dentistry. The family relocated near relatives in Virginia, where his father opened a practice. Bishop Emilio attended St. Anthony and St. Leo Catholic schools, and then Bishop O’Connell High School in northern Virginia.

Bishop Emilio briefly studied at George Mason University then entered the Capuchin Franciscans in 1984 transferring to Borromeo College of Ohio in Wickliffe and earning a B.A. in philosophy in 1987. He made first profession of vows in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on July 16, 1988. He continued Capuchin Formation and theological studies at Oblate College in Washington D.C., making solemn vows on August 17, 1991, and earning an M.A. and M.Div. in theology. He was ordained to the diaconate on May 1, 1993, and served at St. John the Evangelist in Center City Philadelphia.

On May 21, 1994, at the Shrine of the Sacred Heart in Washington, he was ordained to the priesthood by then-Bishop Seán O’Malley, O.F.M. Cap., volunteered and was sent to serve in the Capuchin mission in Papua New Guinea.

From 1994 to 2004 he served predominantly the Kewa and Wiri speaking peoples in the Kagua, Ialibu and Pangia areas of the Southern Highlands and became fluent in Melanesian Tok Pisin. During this period, he worked closely with lay leaders and catechists. From 2002-2004 he served as the Director of Novices for the Capuchin Novitiate in Pangia.

In preparation for the mission in Cuba, Bishop Emilio returned to the United States in 2005 and studied at the Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and the Family at Catholic University in Washington, earning his STL degree (Licentiate in Sacred Theology), Magna Cum Laude.

In 2007, Bishop Emilio entered Cuba and served there for 12 years. He spent his first year in Havana, then three years as Pastor of La Pastora Parish in Santa Clara, and the last eight years on the eastern side of the country in the Diocese of Bayamo-Manzanillo, where he was Pastor of La Purisima Concepcion de Manzanillo.

Bishop Emilio was appointed Pastor of the Shrine of the Sacred Heart in Washington, D.C. on March 1, 2019. Sacred Heart has 5,000 families and is culturally diverse, offering the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass in five languages each weekend (English, Spanish, Haitian Creole, Vietnamese, and Portuguese).

On May 13, 2026, it was publicly announced that he was appointed the third bishop of the Diocese of Venice in Florida by Pope Leo XIV. His ordination and installation are on July 11, 2026.

Getting the call

Formally introduced by Bishop Emeritus Frank J. Dewane during a May 13 press conference in Venice, Bishop Emilio said he “accepted the appointment with trust in the Divine Providence of God.” He also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Holy Father, Pope Leo, for “his prayerful support and for the confidence he has placed in me through this appointment. Mindful of the weight of this responsibility, I entrust myself to Our Lady of Mercy and to St. Mark, co-patrons of this youthful and thriving Diocese of Venice.”

The call he received from Apostolic Nuncio Cardinal Christophe Pierre was a “big surprise. The nuncio called and I was in confessions before the evening Mass on Saturday. I saw the nunciature had called, which wasn’t totally unexpected as some priests from Cuba were coming to visit. I figured that was the call.”

Of course, that was not why he received the call, it was about the appointment by the Holy Father to lead a 10-county diocese in Southwest Florida.

“On a personal level, I am amazed at the way Divine Providence has worked throughout my life,” Bishop Emilio said.  “Sometimes we experience moments of tremendous sadness and sorrow that catch us by surprise and sometimes moments of great wonder.  Ten to twelve years ago, at a Capuchin Provincial Chapter, two elderly Capuchins who had served in Papua New Guinea, told me, “One day you are going to be a Bishop, and then you will need a lot of prayers.” This was just a conversation between us. But when it happened, I remembered, and now I am in the part of needing many prayers.”

Preparing to lead the diocese

Since the announcement of his appointment was made, Bishop Emilio has been pulled in many directions. He worked diligently to ensure the transition to a new pastor at Sacred Heart in Washington went smoothly, while at the same time tried to gain information about the Diocese of Venice.

Relying on prayer, he first received the names of all priests, religious and Diocesan staff so he could pray for them. In addition to meeting in the Catholic Center in Venice with Bishop Dewane and other key personnel, Bishop Emilio set up a series of regional Deanery meetings with priests, women religious, and deacons for the week of June 15-19. These meetings served the purpose of meeting as many priests, religious and deacons, receiving feedback from them and sharing his own story.

“I really enjoyed it,” Bishop Emilio said. “I think this set up nicely another pastoral another piece that will come after the ordination.”

That piece includes meeting the Catholic Center staff and gradually making key appointments, such as vicar general, vicar for priest, vicar for religious, director of religious education and more.

Bishop Emilio also plans to spend his first months making initial visits to all 61 parishes, The visits to the 15 Catholic schools in the diocese will come in October and November.

With a sense of responsibility and some urgency, Bishop Emilio said he wants to meet the pastors, priests, deacons, religious and lay leaders at their parishes. Later, before the end of the first year, he hopes to make more formal, official visitations, at each parish.

Prior to his ordination and installation, Bishop Emilio took some time wrapping up the transition at his former parish, visiting family, and preparing to go on retreat at the Capuchin Hermitage near Salisbury, Pennsylvania, not far from Cumberland, Maryland.

“It was a difficult time turning over the beautiful parish of the Shrine of the Sacred Heart while also learning about the diocese,” Bishop Emilio said. “Now going to our Capuchin Hermitage will allow time for prayer, silence and concentration on Venice.”

Bishop Emilio asks that all pray for him as he is ordained as a bishop and installed as the third shepherd of the Diocese of Venice in Florida.

Welcome to Florida, Bishop Emilio!

 

Esperen grandes cosas de nuestro nuevo pastor

Diócesis de Venice inicia nueva etapa de camino pastoral

El camino que ha llevado al Obispo Emilio Biosca Agüero, O.F.M. Cap., a la Diócesis de Venice en Florida como su tercer pastor ha tenido muchos giros variados e interesantes.

Obispo Emilio —como prefiere que le llamen— llega a la diócesis con sólidos valores familiares, inculcados durante su infancia e influenciados por sus lazos familiares en Cuba; la formación como hombre de Dios dentro de la Orden de los Franciscanos Capuchinos; la gratificante e iluminadora labor misionera en las selvas de Papúa Nueva Guinea y luego en la Cuba comunista; y el liderazgo de la diversa y floreciente parroquia del Santuario del Sagrado Corazón en la capital del país.

Lo que está claro es que se anticipan grandes frutos con Obispo Emilio al frente de la Diócesis de Venice.

“Asumo este rol como obispo de Venice para proclamar el Evangelio de una manera gozosa, positiva y bien instruida”, expresó Obispo Emilio. “Me acerco a este nuevo ministerio confiando en Dios. Hay una necesidad de evangelización para que el Evangelio pueda echar raíces”.

El obispo dijo que desea animar a todos a reservar tiempo para el silencio y la oración en su vida, “para que podamos escuchar algo que sea diferente de nuestra propia voz. Eso implica crear un tiempo de silencio, de oración, de tener en realidad la capacidad de tomar la Biblia en cualquier momento y leerla. Rezar el rosario. Ir a misa. Tenemos que organizar nuestra vida de manera que Dios pueda hablarnos, para que podamos escuchar, en lugar de tener todo (dispositivos, televisión, y demás) encendido todo el tiempo”.

Obispo Emilio nació el 15 de diciembre de 1964 en Colorado Springs, Colorado, hijo de Emilio Rodolfo Biosca y María del Carmen Agüero, quienes eran inmigrantes recientes de Cuba. Fue el tercero de siete hijos; sus dos hermanas mayores nacieron en Cuba. Fue bautizado el 25 de diciembre en la iglesia católica St. Patrick, en Pueblo, Colorado.

La familia residió primero en Pueblo, Colorado, y luego en Kansas City, Missouri, donde su padre, quien era dentista en Cuba, trabajó, estudió y se graduó de la Facultad de Odontología de la Universidad de Missouri-Kansas City. Luego se mudaron cerca de familiares en Virginia, donde su padre abrió un consultorio. Obispo Emilio asistió a las escuelas católicas St. Anthony y St. Leo, y luego a la escuela secundaria Bishop O’Connell en el norte de Virginia.

Obispo Emilio estudió brevemente en la Universidad George Mason y luego ingresó a los franciscanos capuchinos en 1984, transfiriéndose a Borromeo College of Ohio, en Wickliffe, donde obtuvo una licenciatura en Filosofía en 1987. Emitió su primera profesión de votos en Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, el 16 de julio de 1988. Continuó su formación capuchina y estudios teológicos en Oblate College, en Washington D.C., y profesó votos solemnes el 17 de agosto de 1991, obtuvo una maestría en Teología y, posteriormente, una maestría en Divinidad (M. Div.). Fue ordenado diácono el 1 de mayo de 1993, y sirvió en la parroquia St. John the Evangelist en Center City, Philadelphia.

El 21 de mayo de 1994, en el Santuario del Sagrado Corazón, en Washington, fue ordenado sacerdote por el entonces Obispo Seán O’Malley, O.F.M. Cap., y se ofreció como voluntario para servir en la misión capuchina en Papúa Nueva Guinea, donde fue enviado.

De 1994 a 2004 sirvió principalmente a los pueblos de habla kewa y wiri en las zonas de Kagua, Ialibu y Pangia en las Tierras Altas del Sur, y dominó con fluidez el tok pisin melanesio. Durante este período trabajó estrechamente con líderes laicos y catequistas. De 2002 a 2004 sirvió como director de novicios en el noviciado capuchino en Pangia.

En preparación para la misión en Cuba, Obispo Emilio regresó a los Estados Unidos en 2005 y estudió en el Pontificio Instituto Juan Pablo II para Estudios sobre el Matrimonio y la Familia, de la Universidad Católica de Washington, donde obtuvo su Licenciatura en Sagrada Teología (STL), con la distinción magna cum laude.

En 2007, Obispo Emilio llegó a Cuba, donde sirvió durante 12 años. Pasó su primer año en La Habana, luego tres años como párroco de La Pastora en Santa Clara, y los últimos ocho años en la región oriental del país, en la Diócesis de Bayamo-Manzanillo, donde fue párroco de La Purísima Concepción de Manzanillo.

Obispo Emilio fue nombrado párroco del Santuario del Sagrado Corazón en Washington, D.C., el 1 de marzo de 2019. El Santuario cuenta con 5,000 familias y es una comunidad culturalmente diversa que cada fin de semana celebra el santo sacrificio de la misa en cinco idiomas: inglés, español, criollo haitiano, vietnamita y portugués.

El 13 de mayo de 2026 se anunció públicamente que había sido nombrado tercer obispo de la Diócesis de Venice en Florida por el Papa Leo XIV. Será ordenado e instalado el 11 de julio de 2026.

El momento de la llamada

Presentado formalmente por el Obispo Emérito Frank J. Dewane durante una conferencia de prensa el 13 de mayo en Venice, Obispo Emilio dijo que “aceptó el nombramiento con confianza en la Divina Providencia de Dios”. También expresó su sincera gratitud al Santo Padre, el Papa León, por “su apoyo en oración y por la confianza que ha depositado en mí a través de este nombramiento. Consciente del peso de esta responsabilidad, me encomiendo a Nuestra Señora de la Misericordia y a San Marcos, copatronos de esta diócesis joven y floreciente”.

La llamada que recibió del Nuncio Apostólico, el Cardenal Christophe Pierre, “fue una gran sorpresa. El nuncio llamó y yo estaba en confesiones antes de la misa vespertina del sábado. Vi que la nunciatura había llamado, lo cual no era totalmente inesperado porque algunos sacerdotes de Cuba vendrían de visita. Pensé que esa era la llamada”.

Por supuesto, no era por eso: se trataba del nombramiento por el Santo Padre para dirigir una diócesis de 10 condados en el suroeste de Florida.

“A nivel personal, me asombra la manera en que la Divina Providencia ha obrado a lo largo de mi vida”, dijo Obispo Emilio. “A veces experimentamos momentos de profunda tristeza y dolor que nos sorprenden, y a veces momentos de gran asombro. Hace diez o doce años, en un capítulo provincial capuchino, dos capuchinos ancianos que habían servido en Papúa Nueva Guinea me dijeron: ‘Un día serás obispo, y entonces necesitarás muchas oraciones’. Eso fue solo una conversación entre nosotros. Pero cuando sucedió, lo recordé, y ahora estoy en la etapa en la que necesito muchas oraciones”.

Preparándose para dirigir la diócesis

Desde que se anunció su nombramiento, Obispo Emilio ha sido solicitado desde múltiples frentes. Trabajó diligentemente para asegurar una transición fluida hacia un nuevo párroco en el Santuario del Sagrado Corazón en Washington, al mismo tiempo que intentaba obtener información sobre la Diócesis de Venice.

Confiando en la oración, primero recibió los nombres de todos los sacerdotes, religiosas, religiosos y personal diocesano para poder orar por ellos. Además de reunirse en el Centro Católico en Venice con el Obispo Dewane y otros miembros clave, Obispo Emilio organizó una serie de reuniones regionales de decanato con sacerdotes, religiosas, religiosos y diáconos durante la semana del 15 al 19 de junio. Estas reuniones sirvieron para conocer a tantos de ellos como fuera posible, recibir sus comentarios y compartir su propia historia.

“Realmente lo disfruté”, manifestó Obispo Emilio. “Pienso que se establecieron buenas bases para la próxima labor pastoral que vendrá después de la ordenación”.

Dicha labor incluye reuniones con el personal del Centro Católico e ir haciendo nombramientos clave, como vicario general, vicario para sacerdotes, vicario para religiosos, director de educación religiosa, y más.

Obispo Emilio también piensa dedicar sus primeros meses a realizar visitas iniciales a las 61 parroquias. Las visitas a las 15 escuelas católicas de la diócesis se realizarán en octubre y noviembre.

Con un sentido de responsabilidad y cierta urgencia, Obispo Emilio informó que desea conocer a los párrocos, sacerdotes, diáconos, religiosas, religiosos y líderes laicos en sus parroquias. Más adelante, antes de que termine el primer año, espera realizar visitas más formales y oficiales a cada una.

Antes de su ordenación e instalación, Obispo Emilio dedicó tiempo a concluir la transición en su antigua parroquia, visitar a su familia y prepararse para un retiro en la ermita capuchina cerca de Salisbury, Pennsylvania, no lejos de Cumberland, Maryland.

“Entregar la hermosa parroquia del Santuario del Sagrado Corazón al mismo tiempo que aprendía sobre la diócesis fue un tiempo difícil”, compartió Obispo Emilio. “Por eso, ir a nuestra ermita capuchina me dará oportunidad para la oración, el silencio y concentrarme en Venice”.

Obispo Emilio pide que todos oren por él mientras es ordenado obispo e instalado como el tercer pastor de la Diócesis de Venice en Florida.

¡Bienvenido a Florida, Obispo Emilio!

 

Bishop Frank J. Dewane’s Statement on the appointment of the new Shepherd for the Diocese

Posted on by Bob Reddy

It is with gratitude to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, that I announce in the Diocese of Venice in Florida, that Our Holy Father, following prayerful discernment is appointing a new Shepherd for the Diocese of Venice in Florida: Bishop-elect Emilio Biosca Agüero, OFM Cap., a priest ordained on May 21, 1994 for the Capuchin Franciscan Province of St. Augustine (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania).  Having served in assignments for the Province, both overseas and within the United States, Bishop-elect has for the past seven years been the Pastor at the Shrine of the Sacred Heart Parish in Washington, D.C and has held numerous leadership positions within his Religious Community. Son of an immigrant family with 7 children, Bishop-elect is enthusiastic, with a strong pastoral spirit and particular devotion to the Virgin Mary and to serving the People of God.  With all of you, I welcome him to our Diocesan family, which will be greatly blessed by his ministry, and I very much look forward to getting to know him as in just a few days he has shown himself to be a deeply spiritual and exceptional priest.

Our new Bishop is coming to a Diocese that is growing at a rapid pace with families and individuals that evidence a vibrant faith and diverse backgrounds.  It has been a great joy for me to have ministered here for the past twenty years.  I am pleased and very proud of the Catholic Community of the Diocese, who they are and who they are becoming, by their witness to Christ.  This has become possible by the great pastoral care and service that the priests, both Diocesan and Religious, have provided. 

In accord with canon law, I submitted my resignation to the Pope over a year ago on my seventy-fifth birthday, and, with the appointment of Bishop-elect Agüero, it is now formally accepted.  As I retire, it is my plan to remain in the Diocese of Venice, which has become my home as it has for so many others from the Midwest.  I can assure Bishop Emilio that he will not see occasional snowfall, just an occasional hurricane or two.  

To the Priests, Deacons, and joy-filled laity, thank you all for being a wonderful family of faith, hope, and love.  I look forward to my continued home here assisting the new Bishop pastorally, in any manner I can.  I also look forward to more time for prayer, study and travel.

As of today, I am officially the Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Venice in Florida and have been appointed its Apostolic Administrator until the day of Bishop-elect Agüero’s ordination which will take place on July 11, 2026.

It is my great privilege to present to you Bishop-elect Emilio Biosca Agüero.

A new Shepherd for Venice

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Mandatory resignation accepted for Bishop Frank J. Dewane; Capuchin Franciscan priest named as new Prelate

By Bob Reddy – Florida Catholic

On May 13, 2026, Pope Leo XIV accepted the resignation of Bishop Frank J. Dewane of Venice, and appointed Bishop-elect Emilio Biosca Agüero, OFM Cap., as Bishop-elect of Venice, a priest of the Archdiocese of Washington, and native of Colorado Springs, Colorado, as the new shepherd of the 10-county Southwest Florida Diocese.

The announcement was made by Pope Leo early in the morning on May 13, the Feast of Our Lady of Fatima, and announced by Bishop Emeritus Frank J. Dewane at a press conference later that morning.

Bishop Dewane introduced the Bishop-elect Biosca, a member of the Capuchin Franciscan Friars of the Province of Saint Augustine in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, who since 2018 has served as Pastor of the Shrine of the Sacred Heart in Washington, D.C. He was ordained to the priesthood on May 21, 1994, for the Capuchin Franciscan Province of St. Augustine. He also served as a missionary in Papua New Guinea and later in Cuba. (See full bio on Page 2.)

“In accord with canon law, I submitted my resignation to the Pope over a year ago on my seventy-fifth birthday, and, with the appointment of Bishop-elect Agüero, it is now formally accepted,” Bishop Dewane said. “As of today, I am officially the Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Venice in Florida and have been appointed its Apostolic Administrator until the day of Bishop-elect Agüero’s ordination which will take place on July 11, 2026.”

After being formally introduced by Bishop Dewane, Bishop-elect Biosca said having heard from Cardinal Christophe Pierre, Apostolic Nuncio Emeritus to the United States, he accepted the appointment with trust in the Divine Providence of God. He also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Holy Father, Pope Leo, for “his prayerful support and for the confidence he has placed in me through this appointment. Mindful of the weight of this responsibility, I entrust myself to Our Lady of Mercy and to St. Mark, co-patrons of this youthful and thriving Diocese of Venice.”

“I am thrilled to be here and filled with joy to begin this new chapter together in faith and charity. I am also eager to join you in the great task of evangelization, growing together in our knowledge of Christ and sharing the profound hope of the Gospel,” Bishop-elect Biosca said.

“I wish to express my sincere gratitude to Bishop Dewane, who has faithfully shepherded this local Church for 20 years. His pastoral charity, generous heart, and warm welcome have already been a great gift to me. I look forward to continuing to seek his guidance as I begin this ministry.”

Bishop-elect Biosca also thanked his Capuchin Provincial Minister, Father Robert Marva, the members of the Provincial Council, and his Capuchin brothers for their fraternal and prayerful support throughout his life. He then thanked Cardinal Robert W. McElroy, of the Archdiocese of Washington, and Bishop Juan Esposito-Garcia, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese, for their support during the past days in preparation for this announcement.

Bishop-elect Biosca then shared words from the “Saving of Light and Love,” (#73) of St. John the Cross, which has accompanied him throughout his life: “What does it profit you to give God one thing, if He ask of you another? Consider what – it is – God wants, and then do it. You will as a result better satisfy your heart than, with that, toward which you yourself are inclined.”

“I look forward to entering into the life of this local Church: to know its people, to understand its history, to appreciate its customs and traditions, and to learn the events that have shaped the spiritual character of this region,” Bishop-elect Biosca added. “I hope to discover not only the history written in books and archives, but also the living history preserved in families, parishes, neighborhoods, and their witness to Christ.”

To the priests of the Diocese, who Bishop-elect Biosca said were going to be his principal and closest collaborators, he offered his fraternal greeting and deep respect. He expects to meet with the priests in small groups and individually, praying together, listening to them, and serving with them. Bishop-elect Biosca offered the same greeting to the men and women religious of the Diocese, thanking them for the witness of their consecrated lives and hopes to meet with them and support their evangelical form of life in the Church. In addition, Bishop-elect Biosca extended his gratitude to the lay leaders of the Diocese and of the Parishes, whose fidelity and generous service prove indispensable to the mission and structure of the Church. “Their witness in marriage and extended family reveals the vitality of the Gospel lived in daily life.”

Bishop-elect Biosca also offered comments in Spanish and concluded by saying, “I ask for your prayers, that I may serve faithfully and joyfully as a shepherd after the Heart of Christ for the Good Shepherd. God Bless you!”

Earlier in the day, Bishop Dewane introduced the new shepherd Bishop-elect Biosca to the staff of the Diocesan Catholic Center who were waiting for him at the entrance. After a few comments from both Bishop and Bishop-elect, the staff applauded their greetings, with many offering personal well-wishes. A short time later Bishop Dewane and Bishop-elect Biosca concelebrated the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass for the Diocesan staff in the Catholic Center Chapel. Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocesan Superintendent of Catholic Education, concelebrated.

A press conference in the Catholic Center main conference room took place, where both Bishop-elect Biosca and Bishop Dewane fielded questions. In addition to the media, also present were Diocesan priests and religious, as well as select invited lay leaders.

Bishop Dewane came to serve the Diocese of Venice in 2006, after serving as Under Secretary of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace where he served as a delegate of the Holy See to numerous international conferences and world summits, presenting the position of the Church, allowing for pastoral encounters with people throughout the world. As Bishop Dewane transitions to retirement, he said he looks forward to spending more time in prayer, study and travel.

“It has been a great joy for me to have ministered here for the past 20 years,” Bishop Dewane said. “I am pleased and very proud of the Catholic Community of the Diocese, who they are and who they are becoming, by their witness to Christ.  This has become possible by the great pastoral care and service that the priests, both Diocesan and Religious, have provided. As I retire, it is my plan to remain in the Diocese of Venice, which has become my home as it has for so many others from the Midwest. To the Priests, Deacons, and joy-filled laity, thank you all for being a wonderful family of faith, hope, and love. I look forward to my continued home here assisting the new Bishop pastorally, in any manner I can.”

Happy Birthday Bishop Dewane

Posted on by Bob Reddy

To mark the 75th birthday of Bishop Frank J. Dewane, the staff of the Catholic Center in Venice gathered for a celebratory luncheon at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice on March 12, 2025. Bishop Dewane turned 75 on March 9.

Bishop Dewane reflected that his 75th birthday was a good number to reach and that he feels blessed by God for reaching this milestone. He also noted that he is grateful to have received many birthday greetings from family and friends.

During the luncheon, several speakers spoke about their time in service under Bishop Dewane. Speakers included Diocesan Vicar General, Msgr. Stephen E. McNamara; Chancellor, Dr. Volodymyr Smeryk, Communications Director, Karen Barry Schwarz; Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc. CEO, Stephen Root; and Catholic Community Foundation of Southwest Florida, Inc. Executive Director, Michael Morse.

Born and raised in Denmark, Wisconsin, a farming community near Green Bay, Bishop Dewane was ordained to the priesthood on July 16, 1988, for the Diocese of Green Bay. He served as a priest in the Diocese until 1991 when he was appointed to serve as a member of the Permanent Observer Mission of the Holy See to the United Nations in New York City, during which time he represented the Holy See at several international conferences. In 1995, he was transferred to the Pontifical Council “Cor Unum,” and was later appointed Under Secretary of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace.

On April 25, 2006, Pope Benedict XVI named Bishop Dewane Coadjutor Bishop of the Diocese of Venice in Florida, and on January 19, 2007, Bishop Dewane was installed in his current role as the Bishop of the Diocese.

Bishop Dewane serves on several committees at the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and is a member of the Board of Directors of the Franciscan Foundation for the Holy Land.

Happy 75th Birthday Bishop Dewane!

News Briefs for the week of March 7, 2025

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Catholic Center celebrates Mardis Gras

The staff of the Diocese of Venice Catholic Center took time out to celebrate Mardis Gras on Fat Tuesday, March 4, 2025, in Venice. Bishop Frank J. Dewane led everyone in prayer and there were sweet treats for everyone in this tradition of indulgence ahead of the Lenten Season.

Students work on campus beautification project

St. Joseph Catholic School students in Bradenton who are in aftercare took part in a campus beautification project since late February 2025. They have been potting flowers and adding them to special spots throughout the campus. They are also watering these new additions to keep them looking great for the school community.

Religion students learn the parts of Mass

Seventh-grade students at St. Francis Xavier Catholic School in Fort Myers have been working hard in their religion class to learn the four parts of the Mass (Introductory Rites, Liturgy of the Word, Liturgy of the Eucharist, and Concluding Rites). On March 4, 2025, students put what they learned to the test by playing a review game. They then worked in teams to put the steps of Mass in the correct order on a board as fast as they could. One team took home the win in just under 35 seconds!

Science in action

Chemistry students at Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers often take a hands-on approach to learning. On Feb. 24, 2025, the students learned how to synthesize an ionic compound. They expertly burned magnesium ribbon in a crucible, creating magnesium oxide and magnesium nitride right before their eyes. Following the synthesis, they tested the validity of their compounds by dissolving the product and examining its conductivity. This practical experiment not only demonstrated key chemical reactions, but also provided valuable insights into the properties of ionic compounds. This is just one example of the well-rounded education students receive in STREAM (science, technology, religion, engineering, art, and math) based curriculum.

Gummy Bears sacrificed for science

Pre-kindergarten students at St. Martha Catholic School in Sarasota recently sacrificed a few Gummy Bears for the sake of science. On March 3, 2025, the engrossed students worked on developing their observation skills, comparing and contrasting, and learning to make predictions about what will happen when Gummy Bears are put in different liquids, such as water. They also learned about patience as they waited to see the changes over time.

Verot Gala March 15

Bishop Verot Catholic High School presents a formal evening of timeless elegance with The Regency Garden Gala, 5:30 p.m., March 15, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point, 5001 Coconut Road, Bonita Springs. Dress is formal and proceeds benefit the high school. To secure tickets visit bvhs.org/advancement/g. Call the school at 239-274-6700 for additional information.

Faith & Wine Lee County and Faith & Ale joint event March 20

Dr. Tim Gray, President of the Augustine Institute and a well-known Catholic speaker and author, is the featured speaker for the 6 p.m., March 20, 2025, joint gathering of Faith & Wine Lee County and Faith & Ale, at St. John XXIII Parish Life Center, 13060 Palomino Lane, Fort Myers. Gray’s talk is titled: “Lent as a Model for Spiritual Life,” The event is $25 per person and includes wine, beer and appetizers. Tickets are limited and will not be available at the door. For more information and to register, please visit https://faithandale.com/events/tim_gray/.

Next Youth Jubilee Adoration Night March 22

The Office of Youth and Young Adult Outreach is offering Youth Jubilee Adoration Nights as part of the Jubilee Year 2025. The evenings include Eucharistic Adoration, an inspirational talk, prayer, music, and the opportunity to take part in the Sacrament of Reconciliation, concluding with Benediction. While the Youth Jubilee Adoration Nights are geared toward younger Catholics, with youth-focused music and talks, all are welcome. Each Adoration Night is 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Upcoming opportunities to participate are: Saturday, March 22, St. Patrick Parish, 7900 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota; and Friday, May 2, St. Paul Parish, 1330 E. Oak. St., Arcadia. There is no cost to attend. For more information contact Andres Prias at 941-441-1122 or prias@dioceseofvenice.org.

Venetian Ball March 22 in Bonita Springs

The Catholic Charities Venetian Charity Ball is 6 p.m., March 22, 2025, at St. Leo the Great Parish Hall, 28290 Beaumont Road, Bonita Springs. This event supports the programs in Lee, Hendry, and Glades counties, and the communities still recovering from Hurricane Ian in 2022. Tickets are $250. Register online at https://one.bidpal.net/vb2025/welcome. For more information, call 239.342.1620 or email venetianball@ccdov.org.

Emerald Ball March 26 in Naples

The Catholic Charities Emerald Ball is 5:30 p.m., March 26, 2025, at the Ritz-Carlton Tiburon Golf Resort, 2600 Tiburon Drive, Naples. This year’s theme, “Pilgrims of Hope,” inspired by Pope Francis in honor of the Jubilee Year, reflects Catholic Charities’ commitment to providing help and hope to all individuals, regardless of race, nationality, or religion. Tickets are $400. Register online at https://one.bidpal.net/eb2025/welcome. For more information, call 239-455-2655 or email emeraldball@catholiccharitiesdov.org.

Third Diocese of Venice Eucharistic Conference March 29

The third Diocese of Venice Eucharistic Conference will take place Saturday, March 29, at the Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center in Punta Gorda. The theme for the day-long event is inspired by the Jubilee Year 2025 while also building upon the three-year National Eucharistic Revival. The theme for the Conference is “Becoming Eucharistic Missionaries,” and it offers an opportunity to celebrate the Catholic faith with others. The Diocesan Eucharistic Conference will feature Mass celebrated by Bishop Frank J. Dewane. There will also be dynamic presentations by nationally renowned Catholic speakers, with the keynote given by Dr. Scott Hahn, a theologian and Catholic apologist, who has written numerous books. There will be breakout sessions in Spanish. In addition, there will be Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, the opportunity for Confession, as well as Catholic vendors and exhibitors. The cost to attend is $35. per person and includes lunch. To learn more and register, visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/eucharistic-congress/. For more information, contact Jim Gontis at 941-486-4754 or gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

Community Pregnancy Clinics Dinner Event April 5 in Naples

“Reaching Hearts” is the theme of the Community Pregnancy Clinics Dinner Event, which is 5 p.m., April 5, 2025, at the Ritz-Carlton Naples Tiburon, 2600 Tiburon Dr, Naples. A reception, dinner and keynote speaker from pro-life advocate and Blaze TV host Liz Wheeler are included. Tickets are $500. To register visit https://supportcpci.com/2025-ycfl-event/ or email events@community4life.com to learn more.

Easter Triduum Retreat at OLPH

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice, will host its annual Easter Triduum Retreat, April 17-20, 2025. The retreat begins with supper on Holy Thursday and ends with breakfast on Easter Sunday. There will be conferences which will focus on the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of the Lord.  Celebration of the liturgies of the Lord’s Supper, Way of the Cross, Commemoration of the Lord’s Passion, Easter Vigil, and Sunrise Easter Liturgy are celebrated. Confessions will also be available. Register at www.olph-retreat.org, and click on “Schedule of Events.”

Chrism Mass to be celebrated in Naples on April 15

The Chrism Mass, which takes place during Holy Week every year, will be held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, April 15, at St. John the Evangelist Parish, 625 111th Ave. N., Naples. During this Mass, Bishop Frank J. Dewane will bless the Holy Oils which are used in the administration of the Sacraments at each parish throughout the year. Priests and Deacons celebrating 25 and 50 years of Ordination are recognized at this Mass. The jubilarians being honored this year are:

Priests 50 Years: Father Gregory Klein, O. Carm., Father Normando Feliz, and Father Michael Mullen;

Priests 25 Years: Father Luis Pacheco, and Father Saji Ellickal Joseph, MCBS

Deacon 25 Years: Deacon Richard Klish

All are encouraged to attend in support of our clergy and to participate in this important Holy Week celebration.

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.

News Briefs for the week of May 10, 2023

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Catholic Center hosts prayer service for Blessed Virgin

The staff of the Diocese of Venice Catholic Center took part in a prayer service, led by Bishop Frank J. Dewane, honoring the Blessed Virgin Mary on May 8, 2024. Bishop Dewane noted how the month of May is dedicated to Our Lady and it is appropriate to honor her seeking the Blessed Virgin’s intercession on our behalf. During the prayer service, the Catholic Center staff prayed Litany of Our Lady of Loretto, the Hail Mary, and sang the Salve Regina.

 

Pro-Life training sessions May 13 and 15 

If you’d like to volunteer to help educate people on the truth about the pro-abortion amendment on the November ballot, plan to attend a training opportunity within the Diocese of Venice in May (one of two). The first training is Monday, May 13, 2024, from 11:45 a.m. to 3 p.m., at St. Patrick Parish Hall (new location), 7900 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota.  The second session is also from 11:45 a.m., Wednesday, May 15, at St. John XXIII Parish Center, 13060 Palomino Lane, Fort Myers. Lunch will be included at both sessions.  Register online at www.LeadershipInstitute.org/Florida for either session. If you have questions, please contact Jeanne Berdeaux at 941-374-1068 or Berdeaux@dioceseofvenice.org.

Students learn about business and finances

Fourth and fifth grade students from St. Martha Catholic School in Sarasota took part in a school trip to experience a day in the workplace at JA BizTown in Tampa on April 30, 2024. JA BizTown combines in-class learning with a day-long visit to a simulated town where students receive hands-on experience as both employees and consumers, paying rent, taxes and utilities, purchasing insurance, depositing paychecks and buying other business products, handling customer service, and more. The interactive, project-based program not only teaches students how to manage their own personal finances and the importance of becoming a successful professional within the community, but it also empowers them to take responsibility for their professional and educational futures.

Fort Myers Catholic youth to participate in national Spelling Bee

The faithful of St. Cecilia Parish in Fort Myers will be cheering on one of their own during the 96th Scripps National Spelling Bee from May 28-30, 2024. David Nicasio, 13, who is an active member of St. Cecilia, as an altar server, lector, as well as in the middle school and youth groups, won a series of local competitions to qualify as one of 245 students from across the nation to reach the national Spelling Bee. The competition has four levels: preliminaries, quarterfinals, semifinals, and finals. The competition will air on the ION network from 8-10 p.m. May 29 and 30. The earlier rounds will be available on ION Plus, a digital platform. Just for making the National Spelling Bee, David will receive a number of gifts and prizes related to learning. Prizes increase to a top prize of $50,000 and a championship trophy for the winner.

Retreat For Mothers Grieving the Loss of a Child

Red Bird Ministries, a non-profit Catholic grief support ministry is hosting a Grieving Mother’s Retreat from June 7 – 9, 2024, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 South Moon Drive, Venice. This retreat is for women who have experienced the loss of a child from pregnancy through adulthood.  Mothers will be helped in addressing the profound healing that needs to happen while also honoring the memory of the child throughout their grief journey. Please visit www.redbird.love/revival for information and registration.

Ordination to the Priesthood June 8

Bishop Frank J. Dewane invites the faithful to the Ordination to the Priesthood of Transitional Deacon Thomas Gregory Dougherty.  The Ordination will take place at 11 a.m., Saturday, June 8, 2024, at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, 1301 Center Road, Venice.  All are welcome and encouraged to attend this important event in the life of Deacon Greg as well as the Diocese of Venice. A reception will follow in the Parish Hall.

News Briefs for the Week of April 15, 2022

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Long-serving Diocesan employee recognized

Although Jeanne Berdeaux has been with the Diocese of Venice for 37 years, she shows no signs of slowing down. The Diocesan Respect Life Director started her work with the Diocese on April 8, 1985, just a few months after the Diocese was founded and even before the current Catholic Center was constructed. She worked in Pastoral Ministries (now Evangelization) in her early years then moved to the Respect Life Office for several years before becoming the Director in 1998. Respect Life has been her passion ever since, spreading the word about the Catholic Church’s teaching on life from conception to natural death. On her anniversary day, Bishop Frank J. Dewane congratulated and recognized Berdeaux for her hard work. Congratulations and keep up the good work Jeanne!

Mass for Victims of Abuse April 20 at Cathedral

For the 15th consecutive year, during April, which is Child Abuse Awareness Prevention Month, the Diocese of Venice will be offering a Mass to pray for the victims of abuse. This Mass will be celebrated at 8 a.m., Wednesday, April 20, 2022, at Epiphany Cathedral 350 Tampa Ave. W., Venice. The Mass will be live-streamed, and all are welcome to attend as we come together to pray for the victims of abuse.

Ultrasound donated and blessed

The Knights of Columbus Council 10757, from St. William Parish in Naples, raised the money to purchase a 3D ultrasound which was donated to the Community Pregnancy Clinics Inc. offices in Fort Myers, giving mothers and fathers in need the highest quality images of their unborn babies. The ultrasound was blessed on April 11, 2022, by Father Steven Clemente, Parochial Vicar of St. William Parish. With the science of 3D ultrasound, even at six weeks gestation, parents and family see in detail the beginning of their baby’s development. Approximately 95% of women who view these clear images choose life for their baby!

Student athlete nominated for academic honor

Hallie Monserez, a graduating senior at Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School in Sarasota, has been nominated to the 2022 Florida Dairy Farmers Academic All-State Team. This elite program recognizes and honors 24 graduating student-athletes who excel in both athletics and academics. The 2022 Florida Dairy Farmers Academic All-State Team selection committee received applications from 51 male nominees and 69 female nominees across the state. Each nominee was evaluated on their athletic participation, academic record, extracurricular activities, community service, and essay. Hallie owns a 4.0 GPA. The National Merit Finalist lettered in three sports (cross country, track and field, and soccer) all four years of high school and holds the school record in the 4x400m relay. Hallie is a member of student government, National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, and St. Vincent de Paul Society. She earned over 150 community service hours volunteering with St, Michael the Archangel Parish, Our Lady of Angels Parish in Lakewood Ranch in Sarasota, as well as Living Lord Lutheran Church. She is the daughter of Amber and Michael Monserez and plans to attend the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana this fall. With this being one of the most important special recognition programs the Florida High School Athletic Association sponsors, 12 girls and 12 boys from all over the state will be awarded a total of $50,000 in scholarships. Each Florida Dairy Famers honoree will be recognized during a banquet on June 6, 2022.

Divine Mercy presentation and Feast Day celebrations

The annual celebration of the Divine Mercy Sunday, initiated by St. John Paul II and started in 2000, celebrates the mercy of Jesus as reminded us by St. Maria Faustina Kowalska, a religious sister who lived a humble life and to whom Jesus appeared. To celebrate this important Feast (April 24, 2022), Parishes throughout the Diocese will be holding traditional afternoon prayer services (typically around the 3 p.m. hour). Following are two examples of what Parishes are doing for the Feast of Divine Mercy.  St. William Parish, 601 Seagate Drive, Naples, will have its Divine Mercy Sunday celebration from 2:15 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. The service will start with the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, a reflection of Divine Mercy, chanting the Divine Mercy Chaplet and end with Benediction. All are welcome! For more information, please contact Fred or Barb Goduti at 239-261-4810. In Fort Myers, Our Lady of Light Parish, 19680 Cypress View Drive, invites everyone to its annual celebration of Divine Mercy Sunday. The Sacrament of Reconciliation will be available from 1:00 p.m. and the Holy Hour will begin at 2:30 p.m. with Adoration, the Chaplet and Benediction. All are welcome! For more information, please call the Parish at 239-267-7088.

Computers, robotics and Legos make learning fun

St. Andrew Catholic School third grade students learned about landmarks on April 6, 2022, in Cape Coral. To do this, they researched various landmarks on their computers and then, with their new Robotics programing software, used their Lego kits to bring what they learned to life. This is another example of great STREAM (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Arts and Math) cross-curricular activity.

Fresh salsa made from school garden

The Bishop Verot Catholic High School Environmental Club members enjoyed the fruits of their labor with homemade salsa in Fort Myers on April 17, 2022. Each of the ingredients were cultivated from the school garden. The results were tasty.

Schools, Catholic Charities in northern counties to benefit from Giving Challenge

Diocesan Catholic schools and programs of Catholic Charities in Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, and DeSoto counties will be beneficiaries of the 2022 Giving Challenge, from noon April 26 to noon April 27, 2022. The Giving Challenge is presented by the Community Foundation of Sarasota County with giving strengthened by The Patterson Foundation. All donations made during the 24-hour Giving Challenge are unrestricted gifts to the nonprofit organization of your choice. You can visit www.givingchallenge.org to search for participating organizations. Schools participating in the 2022 Giving Challenge include: Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School, Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School, Incarnation Catholic School, St. Mary Academy, St. Martha Catholic School, St. Joseph Catholic School, and St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School. In addition to Catholic Charities, other organizations within the Diocese that are part of the Giving Challenge include the St. Joseph Food Pantry, St. Vincent de Paul – St. Joseph Conference Bradenton Inc., as well as the Society St. Vincent de Paul – Ss. Peter and Paul the Apostles Conference.

 

Finance Councils learn from Diocese leaders

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Each year the Diocese of Venice provides certificates and continuing development opportunities for staff and volunteers to update them on Diocesan, local and potentially federal policies related to their specific area of responsibility.

With this in mind, the Diocese offered a series of seminars in January and early February for members of Parish/School Finance Councils. Members of the Finance Councils are volunteers who generously provide their time and expertise while serving a critical role in support of their Pastor/Administrator. This work is done to ensure all pastoral needs are met, which includes financial stability, charitable work as well as planning for the future.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane welcomed the gathering on Jan. 21 at St. Patrick Parish in Sarasota, thanking the laity for sharing their experiences and expertise with their Parish/School and their Pastor/Administrator, as well as other members of their respective Finance Councils.

“We are blessed to have such volunteers who so passionately participate in the life of the parish and/or school,” Bishop Dewane added. “We’d be lost without people like yourselves. You are giving the advice and life experience in your respective areas and we are most grateful. Your contributions make a big difference for the priests of the Diocese who might not have the same experience in managing finances.”

The response to the seminars was overwhelmingly positive. One participant in the seminar said the information offered provided clarity to many questions while also providing context and a greater appreciation for the vastness and complexities of the Diocese.

The seminars, one held in each Deanery, helped to provide updates and a broad overview of Diocesan policies and procedures, future planning, and Diocesan growth related to finances. This was also an opportunity for Council members to understand the structure of the Diocese and to put a face to the names of Diocesan staff with whom they may interact and seek information. Topics addressed included the challenges inherent with rapid growth and seasonal nature of many of the parishioners as well as the fact that each Parish/School is unique and has its own issues.

This partnership between the Finance Council and the Pastor/Administrator is vital to the stable finances of any entity. Finance Councils assist the Pastor/Administrator in budgeting; review of quarterly financial statements; developing a long-term Parish/School capital improvement plan, including implementation and funding sources; developing a program for the care and maintenance of all facilities; development and maintenance of position descriptions for the Parish Business Manager/Accountant (bookkeeper) and other staff/personnel engaged in the management, operation or administration of the Parish; and to serve as a resource to advise the Pastor/Administrator on significant expenditures before making a purchase or lease commitment in accordance with Diocesan policies.

Each Parish/School undergoes a financial review every three years by an independent CPA firm, with which the Finance Council is an integral part. Parishes also participate in safety and security programs which must also be budgeted. One of the most challenging aspect of Parish/School finances is the maintenance and operation of the various buildings. As in a household, the Council must ensure that all expenses, such as electricity, water, security, and maintenance, as well as any salaries, are part of current future budgeting processes.

Long-term planning (three-month, one year, five years) is one of the more important aspects of the Finance Councils responsibilities. This is to ensure that the Parish/School is being a good steward of the money, in support of the Pastor/Administrator

Seminar presentations were from the Diocesan Director of Finance Peter McPartland; Risk Management Director Donna Foti; Director of Internal Finance Lorraine VanLede-Brown, Director of the Office of Stewardship and Development Carla Repollet, as well as the Executive Director of the Catholic Community Foundation of Southwest Florida Michael Morse.

Because of the complex nature of the Diocese, where each parish/school has its own unique identity and challenges, the gathering about finances was necessarily more of a general overview than a presentation on specific issues. This is because of the great diversity of the Diocese, with unique clusters of population and income ranges.  However, each speaker addressed the most common topics relating to finances. Each seminar also concluded with a question and answer session.

New Diocesan Stewardship and Development Director settles in

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Bob Reddy – Florida Catholic

With a broad base of experience, for the past 19 years in the Archdiocese of Newark, Carla Repollet, the new Diocese of Venice Stewardship and Development Director, brings a unique perspective to stewardship and development.

With fresh ideas, Repollet is reaching out to Parishes throughout the Diocese by offering the resources and support of her department to help enhance stewardship at all levels.

“I have learned many lessons from my experience in Newark and know what can happen when people become complacent when it is assumed that there will always be money coming in; churches were closed,” she explained. “The goal we must all have is to instill a sense of ownership for the faithful as they must answer the call of Jesus. That call is to be living stewards of the Church.”

Noting that we all have a strong connection to the Church, Repollet noted. “It is our second home. It is where important moments in our lives take place, such as baptisms, confirmations, weddings and funerals. Like a home, without continual support and investment of the people today, the Church won’t be there for future generations.”

A graduate of Rutgers University, she is married with four daughters and a grandson. An immigrant to the U.S., she was born on the Island of Terceira in the Azores, which lies in the Eastern Atlantic Ocean about 1,000 miles west of Portugal.

Being an immigrant offers Repollet a unique perspective on being a steward of the Church and the need to balance what is needed to support the Church within the Diocese of Venice. While there are wealthy portions of the Diocese, there are also very needy portions.

“The Diocese of Venice is blessed to have so much growth taking place. However, we can’t count on that to last forever. Today, we must focus on the now. It is about everyone offering a fair share so that others less fortunate can continue to experience the same Church as everyone else,” she added. “That is the beauty of the Church. No matter where you go, the Mass is the Mass. It might be in a different language, but the Church is universal.”

As Stewardship and Development Director, Repollet said she plans to be very service-oriented and hopes that Parishes use her office as a resource. Her primary responsibilities include overseeing the Catholic Faith Appeal, working to increase and enhance offertory collections, and assisting in Capital Campaigns providing support to Parishes with fundraising initiatives.

Repollet can be reached at 941-441-1117 or repollet@dioceseofvenice.org.

Find a Parish
Clergy
Find a School
TV Mass
Español
Ways to Give