construction Archives - Diocese of Venice

Bishop offers community hope for future

Posted on October 1, 2026October 1, 2026 by Bob Reddy

Mass of Remembrance celebrated at site of destroyed church

A cool breeze blowing through the parking lot of the Church of the Ascension in the early morning of Sept. 28, 2026, was in sharp contrast to four years earlier when the devastating winds and water of Hurricane Ian reshaped the lives of the people of Fort Myers Beach and many.

On this day, the fourth anniversary of Hurricane Ian, Bishop Emilio E. Biosca, O.F.M. Cap., celebrated a Mass of Remembrance on the grounds of the destroyed church before a crowd of hundreds, including parishioners, local officials and those who in the community felt a lasting connection to the parish. Bishop Emilio offered prayers for those who lost their lives in Ian, as well as for those whose lost their way of life (homes and businesses) on that terrible September day.

“Ascension has an integral bond with the Fort Myers Beach community, and we want to rebuild the church,” Bishop Emilio. “May we follow the will of God and how God is leading this church at this time… We pray for the courage and intelligence to be able to make good decisions as we rebuild the church and our community.”

The public commitment from Bishop Emilio to rebuilding the parish was met with great joy and enthusiasm from the parishioners of Ascension and the community at large.

Bishop Emilio cited the example of St. Francis of Assisi as one inspiration to follow during the rebuilding process. The bishop noted that St. Francis is being celebrated in 2026, marking the 800th anniversary of his death in 1226, and also noted that the day’s Mass of Remembrance fell within the novena of the feast of St. Francis (Oct. 4).

The bishop said that St. Francis prayed and heard the voice of the Lord say, “Go and rebuild my church as you see it has fallen into ruins.” The saint rebuilt the San Damiano church, stone by stone, but Bishop Emilio said the message of the Lord meant more than rebuilding a physical church, it was about rebuilding the whole church community, as is currently needed on Fort Myers Beach.

With the faithful of Ascension currently scattered to neighboring parishes, such as St. Leo the Great in Bonita Springs, as well as Resurrection of Our Lord and St. Columbkille in Fort Myers, the former community of the Church of the Ascension is fractured, and the people feel the vacancy in their souls, something Bishop Emilio said pains him.

While the process moves forward with designing and eventually building a new parish church, Bishop Emilio said an announcement will come in the near future of a plan to have a regular Sunday Mass on the parish grounds. There are several options under consideration, and various logistical considerations that will factor into the decision, but the bishop said he wants the Mass celebrated on the property as soon as is practical. This is a temporary solution to meet the pastoral needs of the community as the process of rebuilding continues.

Father Bill Adams, who was pastor of Ascension at the time of Ian, and was there throughout the hurricane, shared his gratitude to Bishop Emilio for celebrating the Mass of Remembrance on the anniversary.

“You are our St. Francis, because you have reached out to us,” Father Adams said. “The community is here and this whole celebration is thanks to you.”

Father Adams recalled being stranded on the island for four days before being rescued by a Knight of Columbus from Fort Lauderdale. He knew many of those who died in the hurricane and tried to comfort those who lost everything.

“I’m so grateful to all of you for being here,” Father Adams said of the large crowd. “I am so happy to see so many familiar faces.”

Ray Murphy, who was mayor of Fort Myers Beach during Ian, said the Mass of Remembrance and celebration “is the first day of our rebirth. There has been a massive hole – we’ve missed our church – the spirituality and community. When you don’t have that, a big part of life is missing.”

Scott Safford, current Vice Mayor of Fort Myers Beach said Sept. 28, 2022, was Fort Myers Beach’s darkest day, but on Sept. 29, grace was found. “We measure our world before Ian and after Ian. You helped one another get back to that life after that darkness. We will continue to rebuild together. Faith is here. Grace is here. We just need a church.”

Father Jaroslaw “Jarek” Sniosek, pastor of St. Leo the Great in Bonita Springs, where many from Ascension currently go to Mass and from where some of the support for the Mass was provided, said the bonds will remain between their adopted parish and Ascension. “Whatever is built, they (the parishioners from Ascension) are welcomed and loved and never forgotten. Thank you for the hope you have brought today. Looking around (at the crowd), we can already see what matters.”

ather Bob Kantor, Episcopal Vicar for Clergy, pastor of St. Agnes Parish, Naples (which provided additional logistical support for the Mass), and State Chaplain for the Knights of Columbus, praised the Knights for their contribution to the Mass and support for the Poor Clare sisters who were displaced by Ian.

“Know that we all pray with you and for you as you move forward in rebuilding this beautiful parish community,” Father Kantor said.

Bishop Emilio concluded the Mass and celebration by promising that a solution that best fits the needs of the parish community will be at the forefront of all work within the diocese going forward.

The bishop offered no timeline for when a regular Sunday Mass would resume, or when construction of the new parish church would begin. Bishop Emilio did promise that, going forward, the parish community would be kept informed throughout the process.

Special thanks to the Knights of Columbus from the area, and to Knights of Columbus State Secretary Deacon Richard Dahn, for the support and effort provided to make this Mass happen.

Bishop and area priests to celebrate Mass of Remembrance on Ian Anniversary

Posted on August 25, 2026 by Bob Reddy

By Karen Barry Schwarz, Special to the Florida Catholic

Bishop Emilio Biosca Agüero, O.F.M. Cap., will celebrate a Catholic Mass of Remembrance on Monday, Sept. 28, 2026, at 9 a.m. on the grounds of the Church of the Ascension, 6025 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach.

The date marks the fourth anniversary of Hurricane Ian’s devastating impact on Southwest Florida, and Fort Myers Beach, including the destruction of the Church of the Ascension.

“As we continue the important work of rebuilding Ascension Parish, let us come together to pray for those who lost their lives, those who lost family or friends, those who lost their homes, and all those hurt by this devastating tragedy, the effects of which are still felt today by so many,” Bishop Emilio said, adding that he hopes that all Ascension parishioners who are still in the area will attend.

Celebrated by Bishop Emilio, the Mass of Remembrance will be concelebrated by priests from the surrounding area, including Msgr. Stephen E. McNamara, Church of the Resurrection, Fort Myers, Father Lorenzo Gonzalez, St. Columbkille, Fort Myers, Father Jarek Sniosek, St. Leo the Great, Bonita Springs, and Father Bill Adams, former pastor of Ascension Parish.

The area priests have also been asked to review the current plans for a new church.

“We are grateful to these priests, and to all the area priests and parishes for their pastoral assistance during this time as plans to rebuild Ascension have been underway,” Bishop Emilio said. “Their firsthand knowledge of the pastoral needs of the community will provide a valuable perspective on our plans for a new Church of the Ascension. My hope is that this process will ensure that the final plan faithfully serves the community, respects its unique location, and provides a lasting church for the worship of God.”

The plans for Ascension Parish have undergone some revision since originally presented, for a number of factors, said Dan Beeman, Director of Building and Construction for the Diocese. But the essence of the design, and the plan to rebuild on the site, remain.

“We seek to follow Christ faithfully and build together a vibrant and Holy Catholic Church in all of Southwest Florida, including once again in Fort Myers Beach,” said Bishop Emilio. “The Diocese’s original vision for the new Church of the Ascension standing as a beacon to our Catholic Faith in Fort Myers Beach remains. We look forward to a new beginning as we celebrate this Mass of Remembrance together.”

All are welcome, and we hope to see you there!

Cathedral bells lifted into tower

Posted on August 20, 2026 by Bob Reddy

The morning of Aug. 11, 2026, marked the next step in Epiphany Cathedral’s renovation.

Four custom bronze bells were installed in a 75-foot tower at Epiphany in Venice.

The procedure was a delicate maneuver that required near-perfect weather, with little to no wind. The stifling heat was an annoyance, but the work crews remained focused on their task. A crane was used to lower the assembly in pairs, with the largest – Star of Bethlehem – and Melchior being installed first. They are mounted in pairs by a steel yoke/headstock and bearings which hold the bells in place and allow for mechanical pivoting when they are rung.

Msgr. Patrick Dubois, Cathedral rector, was overjoyed by this significant milestone in the project that began in June 2024.

“How exciting! This is great,” Msgr. Dubois said after he gave the bells a final ring before being lofted into the air. “These will ring when it’s time for prayer; when it’s time for Mass; when it’s time for different liturgies – the Chrism Mass, funerals, baptism and weddings. We can call everyone to pray at that time.”

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.

Pasquale Marinelli, a representative of the foundry in Italy, was present to watch the installation of the bells. He wanted to see the conclusion of this important project, explaining through a translator that the bells were born from the earth, and forged in fire. Now they are becoming part of the mystic element between the music of the bells and heaven.

The bells were blessed on May 16, 2026, by Bishop Frank J. Dewane.

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 the 75-foot bell tower and custom 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 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 are called Melchior, Gaspar, Balthazar and The Star of Bethlehem.

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, cathedra (bishop’s chair), 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.

Since the reconstruction began, Mass has been held in the Parish Hall, the original Epiphany Parish church.

Some naming opportunities for liturgical elements of the cathedral 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.

Catholic school multi-purpose building breaks ground

Posted on August 4, 2026 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.

Cathedral’s new church bells blessed

Posted on May 22, 2026 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 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.”

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.

New Catechetical Center blessed in Fort Myers

Posted on March 27, 2026 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.

Expansion of affordable housing in Fort Myers gets underway

Posted on October 31, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Bishop Frank J. Dewane presided over a groundbreaking ceremony for Phase 2 of St. Peter Claver Place affordable housing on Oct. 23, 2025. St. Peter Claver Place affordable housing community in Fort Myers is expanding with an additional 72 units on Sister Bowman Lane.

These units are being constructed to add to the existing 136-units which were developed by the Diocese of Venice and opened Phase 1 in April 2024.

The Diocese of Venice partnered on the project with National Development of America, Inc. (NDA), and was supported by the City of Fort Myers, the Fort Myers Community Redevelopment Agency, a Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery administered by Lee County, and the Florida Housing Finance Corporation. Officials from these agencies attended the groundbreaking ceremony.

During the blessing and groundbreaking ceremony, Bishop Dewane thanked each of the officials present and NDA for their support in getting the much-needed expansion built.

“The Diocese is trying to make a difference here,” Bishop Dewane said. “Housing is an important issue throughout Fort Myers and other communities. If a family does not have housing, it is going to be a difficult struggle for them.”

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.”

Kevin Anderson, Mayor of Fort Myers, thanked Bishop Dewane and Diocese of Venice for having the vision to use its property for the benefit of needy families in Fort Myers.

“Phase 1 showed us what’s possible when collaboration meets purpose,” Anderson said. “It offered safe affordable homes and a renewed sense of pride and belonging. With Phase 2, we are not just expanding homes, we are extending opportunities of stability and a promise for a better tomorrow for more families here in Fort Myers.”

Cecil Pendergast, Lee County Commissioner, echoed Anderson’s praise and explained how the financing was expedited through a $17.2 million Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Relief, which was facilitated by the Lee County Board of Commissioners following Hurricane Ian in 2022.

“This project is part of a shared commitment for long-term affordable housing in the historic Dunbar community,” Pendergast said. “It is changing people’s lives and making a difference.”

Although the project faced numerous delays and massive price increases since its first proposal in 2016, National Development’s Rick Miller said the time and effort has been worth every moment.

“More than 300 live in Phase 1 of St. Peter Claver Place,” Miller said. “Not everyone can afford decent housing. But these apartments are offered at prices families can actually afford. That is the most rewarding part of this.”

The apartments are two- and three-bedroom units, built to hurricane standards and complete with new appliances. There is an on-site playground and clubhouse. An added amenity is the proximity to Catholic Charities Children’s Center. This program, on the adjacent property, offers after-school care and tutoring, as well as summer programs for children and teens.

Monthly rent ranges from $630 to $1,300, less than half the market rate. Construction has already begun on Phase 2, with work expected to be completed in about eight months.

St. Peter Claver Place 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 Casa San Alfonso, an affordable housing community in Zolfo Springs, and San Pedro at Meadow Park affordable housing in Arcadia. Additional affordable housing projects are currently in development for Bowling Green and Immokalee.

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

St. Peter Claver Place Phase 2 units will be available for rent in the spring of 2026. People can apply Jan. 1, 2026. For leasing information for St. Peter Claver Place, please call 239-288-0928 or email stpeter@ndcassetmanagement.com.

Ascension Parish Church to be rebuilt – Bishop shares exciting news with parishioners

Posted on October 16, 2025October 16, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Ascension Parish is rising from the rubble as a new church is set to be built in the place of what was destroyed when Hurricane Ian struck Fort Myers Beach in 2022 with 150 mph winds and 15 feet of storm surge. The new church will serve as a beacon of recovery for a community that continues to struggle rebuilding after the storm.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane shared the exciting news with more than 75 displaced faithful from Ascension Parish Oct. 10, 2025, during a presentation at St. Leo the Great Parish Auditorium. Hundreds more watched the presentation via a livestream, while others watched the recording at a later time.

“We hope the news and plans we bring today of a new Church of the Ascension brings you hope for a better tomorrow, and great joy! Your Parish Church is rising anew!” Bishop Dewane said.

The presentation began with an opening prayer from the Jubilee Year, with Bishop Dewane recognizing that the faithful of Ascension have gone through so much since Hurricane Ian.

“We gather here today in the shadow of the terrible devastation,” the Bishop continued. “Dear God, we remember and pray for all those who were impacted by that tragic storm, especially those who lost their lives, and we look forward together with hope to a new future for the Parish community here. We remember too, those who came before, the faithful of Ascension Parish since its inception in 1962. Without them, we wouldn’t be here today.”

Bishop Dewane explained the long process of first clearing the hurricane debris, as well as site preparation and planning the design of the new church. The Bishop added that due to the disaster it was originally expected to take up to 5 years before reconstruction could begin. “We are at the 3-year mark, and we are doing well. We have overcome many obstacles to get to this point, and we are very pleased to be moving forward.”

Richard Cain, a parishioner at Ascension for 55 years, said he was overjoyed by the announcement and the look of the proposed church.

“I didn’t know what to expect, and I am very happy to see we will have a beautiful church that will be on Fort Myers Beach for many years to come,” Cain said. “This is a great day.”

Father William Adams, the retired Pastor of Ascension, was also present for the presentation and complimented the Bishop for the vision of the new Parish church.

Conceptual drawings and a site map were shared by Adrian Karapici, an architect with AM Design Group.

Karapici explained that the new construction includes a single 14,670 square foot structure which is both a church and Parish Hall. The church will seat 738, a significant increase over the previous church.

The exterior features soaring roofs lines and a hurricane resistant glass front, as it rises above the sanctuary as a symbol of faith and unity. Trinity symbolism is integrated into the face. A bell tower will have an open cross with a backlit component visible after sunset. The tower height and cross makes it a landmark, emphasizing the church’s spiritual and community importance.

The property includes an enhanced Memorial Garden, ample parking, new street access, an elevated driveway to the front of the church, a connected level walkway from the front entrance of the church to the Parish Hall, and much more.

The structure is designed to withstand 175 mph winds and will be elevated to protect against potential storm surge, ensuring durability over time.

The narthex, with high vaulted ceilings, will incorporate elements preserved from the destroyed church, including the chandeliers as well as parts of the original wooden roof. Additional elements from the old church will be on display in this area, which is being done to create a meaningful connection to the past.

The sanctuary itself emphasizes natural light and acoustic perfection. The interior includes stained glass windows casting vibrant hues creating a tranquil and reverent environment.

The altar stands out with a modern, yet sacred, design and will be made of white marble. Behind the altar will be a luminous backdrop with a statue of the Ascension.

The sanctuary stained-glass fills the space with colorful light uniting with contemporary design and traditional religious symbolism.

The versatile Parish Hall features a commercial kitchen, classrooms and offices, and can be partitioned into smaller spaces as needed. Large windows look out upon an enhanced lake feature.

Following the architect’s presentation of the new Church of the Ascension plan, the faithful offered enthusiastic applause.

Will McKannay, Town Manager for Fort Myers Beach, complimented Bishop Dewane for announcing the rebuild of Ascension Parish and what that action means for the recovery of the island community.

“Today’s announcement is not just about Ascension; it is a powerful reminder that recovery is not just about rebuilding structures, it is about restoring the heart of our community,” McKannay said. “We stand with you, and we look forward to seeing Ascension Parish rise again, stronger than ever. Thank you.”

Following the presentation, the meeting was open to questions. Some asked about details of the project, such as various liturgical elements, while other questions related to the timeline and cost.

The timeline is dependent on many factors, including getting permitting from the Town of Fort Myers Beach. The targeted goal is to break ground in early 2026 and for completion to be in late spring 2027. The final cost to rebuild is estimated at $14.5 million. However, Bishop Dewane said the Diocese had already spent in excess of $2.5 million in the cleanup and site work on the property and final costs are subject to change due to the continual price increase of construction materials and labor.

Before the presentation, approximately 850 letters and emails were sent to parishioners of Ascension. A website (dioceseofvenice.org/ascension-parish/) has been created to help the faithful stay informed about the progress of the construction. The presentation video, livestream recording, and related slideshow are also there.

Anyone interested in supporting the reconstruction of Ascension Parish is asked to visit the site. Parishioners who are interested in naming opportunities for an aspect of the new construction are asked to email newascension@dioceseofvenice.org.

St. Leo the Great Parish, where many of the faithful have been going to Mass, will continue to serve the worship and Sacramental needs of Ascension parishioners until the new Ascension is finished.

Parish breaks ground for new Ministry Center

Posted on October 3, 2025October 3, 2025 by Bob Reddy

On Sept. 29, 2025, there was much to celebrate at St. Michael the Archangel Parish on Siesta Key. In addition to being the Parish Feast Day, the Feast of the Archangels, it was also time to finally break ground on a new Parish Ministry Center.

With a great number of parishioners looking on and cheering their support, the Pastor, Father Michael Cannon, led a prayer service and blessing before a large group joined in turning some dirt.

“We are blessed that this day has finally come,” Father Cannon said. “This is a momentous occasion for the long-awaited groundbreaking. We are here to pray, sing, and shovels will finally let the dirt fly.”

The initial plans for the Ministry Center date back to 2019 and the “Reignite the Flame” campaign. The project was delayed for a number of reasons, including in part due to the COVID-19 global pandemic in 2020, then emergency roof repairs in 2022, and hurricane damage in 2024 to the Parish offices and to the greater island community.

Father Cannon credited the support of Bishop Frank J. Dewane, as well as the staff of the Diocesan Buildings and Construction Office, for helping the Parish get to this point in construction.

“Work will begin tomorrow,” Father Cannon said. “I had to take a photograph of the bulldozer to make sure it was really there and not just a dream.”

Patty Smith, who has been a parishioner since 1984, spoke on behalf of the parishioners, sharing her joy at the start of construction. “I am so happy that we are here, it is such a blessing,” Smith said, adding that “all my joy has been here, in this place.”

The new 5,000 square-foot multipurpose hall will feature administrative and ministry offices, as well as classroom and meeting rooms.

Joining Father Cannon in the groundbreaking were members of the Parish Building Committee as well as two young children who represent the future of the Parish, and some longtime parishioners who represent the many who have called St. Michael the Archangel their spiritual home through the years.

The architect for the project is PRA Plunkett Raysich Architects, LLP, and the contractor is ME&S General Contractors, Inc.

Boca Grande Parish thriving one year after two hurricanes

Posted on October 3, 2025October 3, 2025 by Bob Reddy

It has been one year since two hurricanes inundated Boca Grande and while the tranquil island community seems to be on the road to recovery, many scars remain.

Our Lady of Mercy Parish was severely impacted by more than 3 feet of storm surge during Hurricane Helene on Sept. 26, 2024, and then by 5 feet of surge on Oct. 9 when Hurricane Milton roared ashore.

Cleanup and mitigation work was well underway following Helene when Milton wiped away that progress and caused additional damage. In the church, the water reached the top of the pews and spread into the sanctuary and sacristy. In addition, Milton’s water reached the rectory. While the water did not destroy the flooring, it did damage the garage and crawlspace where various utilities were located. There was also roof damage.

Fortunately, the Parish Spirit Center, which was completed in 2022 and built high enough to stay dry, was spared. Masses were celebrated in the Spirit Center until the church repairs were sufficiently completed by April 2025.

“We were back in for the Easter Vigil; the perfect time to be back in our sacred space,” said Father Anthony Hewitt, Pastor of Our Lady of Mercy, following Mass on Sept. 28, 2025. “It has been a long year, but Our Lady of Mercy is doing well.”

The repairs required removing the entire contents of the church, including the pews, altar and reredos (the expansive back wall piece of the altar). Each item was accessed and, when possible, salvaged. The Parish needed art restorers and specialists to care for the damage to the paintings, statues, and reredos.

“It was an amazing process,” Father Hewitt said. “Even the pews (made of hardwood) were saved and refinished.”

Some furniture in the sacristy was lost, as were the piano and organ. A new piano has been installed but the organ is on order.

Father Hewitt credits the support of Bishop Frank J. Dewane, the Diocese of Venice Buildings and Construction Office and the various local contractors for how quickly the church repairs were completed.

The disruption to the island community from the storms was extreme and the rebuilding continues throughout the area.

One couple who attended Mass on Sept. 28 said the damage to their home was shocking but that their faith and the knowledge that Our Lady of Mercy was still operating gave them the hope and courage to rebuild.

“Our little church was a mess, but we went to Mass and came closer together as a community because everyone was dealing with the same recovery. It was a sign of resilience for us all as the church repairs were taking place, and people and businesses became whole, we all felt relief. Having Mass in the church again was wonderful. It marked an important milestone.”

Our Lady of Mercy was one of several Parishes within the Diocese to experience damage from the 2024 hurricanes. Most damage to Parishes and Catholic schools has now been repaired, however St. Bernard Parish in Holmes Beach and Sacred Heart Parish in Punta Gorda both had extreme storm surge damage, most significantly to their Parish Halls. Repairs continue on both Parish Halls.