education Archives - Page 14 of 67

News Briefs for the week of September 13, 2024

Posted on September 13, 2024September 13, 2024 by Bob Reddy

Appointment

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

Father Mark Ruckpaul, as Parochial Vicar of Ave Maria Parish, Ave Maria, effective Sept. 5, 2024.

Verot runner receives State Champ ring

Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers honored a senior track star prior to a home football game on Sept. 6, 2024. Prior to the game, Mackenzie DeLisle was presented with her 2024 State Championship ring. Mackenzie won the 1,600-meter race at the Florida High School Athletic Association 2A Track and Field Championships. Her winning time was 4:59.82. Mackenzie will be attending the University of Florida upon graduation in May 2025.

Seniors paint their parking spots

In a tradition for members of the Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School in Sarasota, members of the senior class had the opportunity to paint their individual parking spots on Sept. 6, 2024. Despite the heat, the creativity of the students shone through which reflected both their personalities and passions.

School honors grandparents

Students at St. Catherine Catholic School in Sebring welcomed their grandparents for a special celebration on Sept. 11, 2024. The grandparents were welcomed into the classroom for fun activities.

Support our seminarians

Support, encourage and educate future priests through the Venice Diocesan Council of Catholic Women Seminarian Fund. Join the VDCCW in celebrating Priesthood Sunday, Sept. 29, 2024, in a special and lasting way by sending your Parish Priest a Seminarian Fund “IN HONOR OF” card. This is a gift that keeps on giving. The Diocese is currently educating 18 men in various seminaries and a donation of any amount would be a great help. To take part, please send your donation, made out to VDCCW Seminarian Fund (plus $1 to cover postage and printing) to: Cornelia Zanetti, Seminarian Fund Guardian, 5808 Gulf Drive, #204, Holmes Beach, FL 34217.

Theology on Tap Sarasota Sept. 19 in Sarasota

Theology on Tap is a program for young adults in their 20s and 30s, providing an opportunity to explore faith topics in a relaxed and social setting. On Sept. 19, 2024, the gathering will be held at Big Top Brewing – Restaurant and Brewery, 3045 Fruitville Commons Boulevard, Sarasota. The evening begins with food and refreshments at 7 p.m. Presentations and discussions about the Catholic Faith begin at 8 p.m. The speaker will be Art Reilly, Culture of Life Chair for the Knights of Columbus at Incarnation Parish, Sarasota. Reilly will discuss why everyone should vote no on Amendment 4. For questions, please email Andres Prias at prias@dioceseofvenice.org.

Sarasota Parish to host St. Padre Pio relics Sept. 28

Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Parish, 6600 Pennsylvania Ave., Sarasota, is hosting a visit of the relics of St. Padre Pio, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Sept. 28, 2024. St. Padre Pio is known for many extraordinary gifts, including the stigmata, prophecy, ability to speak languages he had never studied, gift of conversions and more. The day will begin with the opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, 4 p.m. Mass, with the relics. The Mass will be followed by the praying of the Holy Rosary which will include blessings with the relics. Afterwards, the celebration moves to the Parish Hall, with a new video about the St. Padre Pio Shrine located at the Parish, short talks, as well as the relics on display. Food will also be available. There is no charge to attend any of the activities but space is extremely limited in the hall. Reservations are required by Sept. 18. To make a reservation, please contact Donna Hrycyk at dhrycyk@olqm.net or call 941-755-1826.

Formation Program in Spanish

The next session of the Hispanic Apostolate’s Formation Program will begin on Sept. 27, 2024. As we are in the year of prayer and in preparation for the 2025 Jubilee. The topic of study will focus on the “Prayer in the Christian Life, Catechism of the Catholic Church.” There will be a total of seven classes held from 7 p.m. to 9 pm. on Fridays, through Feb. 28, 2025. The cost for all of the classes is $35 and includes a catechism for those who do not have one. Students who register and attend a minimum of 6 classes at one of the participating parishes or online using the Hispanic Apostolate APP (www.pastoralhispanavenice.com) will qualify to receive a Diocesan Certificate of Completion.

Programa de Formación en Español

La próxima sesión del Programa de Formación a cargo del Apostolado Hispano comenzará el 27 de setiembre del 2024. Siendo éste el año de la oración y en preparación al Jubileo del 2025 enfocaremos nuestro tema de estudio en “La Oración Cristiana en el Catecismo de la Iglesia Católica.” Habrá un total de 7 clases que se darán los viernes por la noche de 7:00 pm a 9:00 pm. concluyendo el 28 de febrero del 2025. El costo de todas las clases es de $35 incluyendo un Catecismo para quienes no tienen uno. Los estudiantes que se inscriban y atiendan un mínimo de 6 clases ya sea en una de las parroquias participantes o vía online usando nuestro APP (www.pastoralhispanavenice.com) calificarán para recibir una Certificación Diocesana.

Evangelization Training Sept. 28 in Fort Myers

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

Together in Holiness Marriage Conference Oct. 19

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

Red Mass Oct. 22 in Sarasota

The 16th Annual Red Mass will be celebrated by Bishop Frank J. Dewane, Bishop of the Diocese of Venice at 5:30 p.m., Oct. 22, 2024, at St. Martha Catholic Church, 200 N. Orange Avenue in Sarasota. Judges, lawyers, lawmakers, their families and staff are cordially invited to attend. A reception hosted by the Planning Committee of the Catholic Lawyers Guild will follow in the Fr. Fausto Parish Hall. Please send RSVPs before October 11 for the Red Mass and/or reception to Tina Mroczkowski at 941-366-5510 or tinam@bowmangeorge.com.

15th annual Diocesan Veterans Day Mass to be held in Sarasota

On Veterans Day, Monday, Nov. 11, 2024, the Diocese of Venice will hold a Memorial Mass in honor of the men and women who have served our country and continue to serve and protect us today. This is the 15th year the Diocese has held a Mass on Veterans Day. The opening ceremonies begin at 2:45 p.m., with the Mass at 3 p.m. in the Amphitheater at the Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Road 72/Clark Road, approximately five miles east of I-75. The priests, deacons and Knights of Columbus in the Diocese will join in the celebration of the Mass. All are invited to attend, and active military personnel are asked to wear their uniform. Attendees are also encouraged to wear sunscreen and bring a hat. There is ample seating and parking at the cemetery. For further information please contact Gail Ardy at ardy@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-486-4714.

Kristallnacht commemoration Nov. 17 in Naples

The Catholic-Jewish Dialogue of Collier County (CJD) invites the community to its annual commemorative service of Kristallnacht or “Night of Broken Glass,” which historians consider the beginning of the Holocaust. The free public event take place at 2:30 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024, at St. John the Evangelist Parish, 625 111th Ave. N., Naples. The guest speaker is Joh Koenigsberg, who will share his experiences as a young boy during the Holocaust. At the age of 5, Koenigsberg was brought to the home of a Catholic family by the Cutch Resistance and hid from the Nazis for two years. Kristallnacht recounts the attacks on Jewish communities throughout Germany on Nov. 9-10, 1938. The Kristallnacht commemorative event memorializes the six million Jews and millions of others who were exterminated during the Holocaust. The event is sponsored by CJD, the Diocese of Venice in Florida, the Jewish Community Relations Council of the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, GenShoah of SWFL, and the Holocaust Museum & Janet G. and Harvey D. Cohen Education Center. Please register at www.jewishnaples.org. A reception will follow the talk.

Bishop Verot welcomes largest freshman class

Posted on September 6, 2024 by Bob Reddy

Preserving the culture and traditions that make Bishop Verot Catholic High School a beacon of Catholic education in Fort Myers is important. The rapidly growing school lives by the mantra: “It’s Just Different Here!” The newest Bishop Verot students had an opportunity to see that mantra brought to life in an exciting Freshmen Retreat.

With a freshman class of 227, the largest ever at Verot, the retreat had to be modified to accommodate so many students while still maintaining the unique bonding experiences past retreats have offered. The freshmen boys stayed overnight on Aug. 21, 2024. The girls arrived on Aug. 22, after doing service work in the community. A joint mixer then took place before the boys left and the girls spent the night.

“The freshman retreat is a great experience for freshmen to get acclimated into the school,” said Camilla Motley, a senior retreat leader. “They meet new people and experience the Verot family to learn what we are all about.”

A key component of the annual retreat included participating in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.

“Going to Mass really helps the students get adjusted to the faith life, because faith life is such a big part of Verot,” Camilla said.

The students also participated in a candlelight vigil in the school courtyard, where they heard inspirational talks and prayed together. This is when the students learn the alma mater, and the importance of the motto: “Non Exidet – We will not fail.”

Another tradition is going into the community to volunteer and perform service hours at locations such as the Calusa Nature Preserve, Children’s Advocacy Center, Community Cooperative Inc., Ronald McDonald House, Special Equestrians, St. Francis Xavier Catholic School, and the VA Clinic.

Bobby Lecker, another senior retreat leader, explained how the freshmen were taught how “service is more the idea it is not about you and that the student’s mission is in God. It is to go out and help other people to provide to the community and to strengthen it through our service.”

For the freshmen, the retreat helped them to feel more welcome while also meeting many more people than they had in the first week of school. One freshman admitted that he barely spoke to anyone at school before the retreat, but now he feels more comfortable at Bishop Verot and talks with everyone.

Freshman Taylor Hoffman said she didn’t know what to expect attending Bishop Verot, but after meeting the senior leaders she felt everyone was very welcoming.

“The retreat makes us feel good about being freshmen and that we are actually getting welcomed into high school and that we are excited for the next four years of our lives,” Taylor said. “I kind of just hope to become part of the school culture. The seniors are definitely a big influence on that, and I look up to them as role models.”

The goal of the retreat is to incorporate the freshmen into the school and make them feel special and wanted at Bishop Verot, Camilla explained. “We try to invite them in and get them the new experiences so they can have the best experience possible.”

Small group discussions take place to allow each student to share their story and what they expect to get out of Bishop Verot. The retreat offers new experiences outside of the classroom while the new students are given advice to stay true to themselves.

Freshman Ethan Alexander left the retreat thankful to the senior leaders.

“It is awesome to be welcomed in to start the high school career,” Ethan said. At Bishop Verot, he aspires “to grow my faith in Jesus and to make friends who also love God how I do.”

Camilla said she hopes the big takeaway from the retreat is that the freshmen get new connections. “I think connections are an important thing at Verot so this can be the start of what can be an amazing four years.”

After learning about the culture and traditions of Bishop Verot, the 227 freshmen are certain to become an important part of the school’s culture and history.

The total enrollment is 893 and the freshman application process in now open for the 2025-2026 school year. To reserve a spot for the Freshman Placement Exam, please apply at bvhs.org/admissions/application-process.

News briefs for the week of September 8, 2024

Posted on September 6, 2024September 6, 2024 by Bob Reddy

Students learn important lesson

Young students at St. Francis Xavier Catholic School in Fort Myers were studying religion on Aug. 27, 2024, when they learned about how the Bible says: “I have called you by name; you are mine.” (Isaiah 43) This passage shows that we are so special to God and so loved, that He knows us all by name. The first graders then artfully created their name in their own unique way to showcase this Biblical passage.

Sarasota Parish to host St. Padre Pio relics Sept. 28

Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Parish, 6600 Pennsylvania Ave., Sarasota, is hosting a visit of the relics of St. Padre Pio, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Sept. 28, 2024. Our Lady Queen of Martyrs is host to a St. Padre Pio Shrine located next to the Parish Hall. St. Padre Pio is known for many extraordinary gifts, including the stigmata, prophecy, ability to speak languages he had never studied, gift of conversions and more. The day will begin with the opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, 4 p.m. Mass, with the relics and a chalice used by the saint. The Mass will be followed by the praying of the Holy Rosary which will include blessings with the relics. Afterwards, the celebration moves to the Parish Hall, with a new video about the St. Padre Pio Shrine at the Parish, short talks, as well as the relics on display. Food will also be available. There is no charge to attend any of the activities but space is extremely limited in the hall. Reservations are required by Sept. 18. To make a reservation, please contact Donna Hrycyk at dhrycyk@olqm.net or call 941-755-1826. The St. Padre Pio chalice will be used at the 9 a.m. Mass on Sept. 29, at St. Joseph Parish in Bradenton.

Boutique Sale in Cape Coral

The Council of Catholic Women of St. Katharine Drexel Parish, 1922 SW 20^th Ave, Cape Coral, is hosting a Sisters Boutique Sale in the Parish Hall from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sept. 14, 2024, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sept. 15. The sale will include formal gala gowns, mix and match bridesmaid dresses, prom and cocktail dresses in all sizes. Proceeds go to the Parish, as well as local faith-based charities. For more information, please email staroflife4003@aol.com.

Food drive helps hurricane victims

The Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School community came together to support people impacted by flooding from Hurricane Debby by hosting a food drive during the Aug, 30, 2024, home football game in Sarasota. More than 425 food items were collected and will be distributed to the local food bank. The school sports field were flooded and equipment was damaged or destroyed during the hurricane, but the school community opted to support the families who had flooding and are trying to rebuild.

Theology on Tap Sarasota Sept. 19 in Sarasota

Theology on Tap is a program for young adults in their 20s and 30s, providing an opportunity to explore faith topics in a relaxed and social setting. On Sept. 19, 2024, the gathering will be held at Big Top Brewing – Restaurant and Brewery, 3045 Fruitville Commons Boulevard, Sarasota. The evening begins with food and refreshments at 7 p.m. Presentations and discussions about the Catholic Faith begin at 8 p.m. The speaker will be Art Reilly, Culture of Life Chair for the Knights of Columbus at Incarnation Parish, Sarasota. Reilly will discuss why everyone should vote no on Amendment 4, Just Say No! For questions, please email Andres Prias at prias@dioceseofvenice.org.

Support our seminarians

Support, encourage and educate future priests through the Venice Diocesan Council of Catholic Women Seminarian Fund. Join the VDCCW in celebrating Priesthood Sunday, Sept. 29, 2024, in a special and lasting way by sending your Parish Priest a Seminarian Fund “IN HONOR OF” card. This is a gift that keeps on giving. The Diocese is currently educating 18 men in various seminaries and a donation of any amount would be a great help (The donation amount will not be revealed to the recipient). To take part, please send your donation, made out to VDCCW Seminarian Fund (plus $1 to cover postage and printing) to: Cornelia Zanetti, Seminarian Fund Guardian, 5808 Gulf Drive, #204, Holmes Beach, FL 34217.

Responding to False Claims About Catholic Organizations Serving Newcomers

Accusations levied against the Church for providing refugee assistance and resettlement are nothing new; anti-Catholic bias and misinformation has surrounded this ministry since its beginnings. However, assisting newcomers is one of the Corporal Works of Mercy and Integral to Catholic identity. A new document issued by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops aims to address the many false claims about Catholic organizations serving newcomers. Please share this document (or excerpts) with the faithful to aid in your discussions about why the Church must serve this vulnerable population. The USCCB document, Responding to False Claims About Catholic Organizations Serving Newcomers, can be found at migrationclaims.pdf (usccb.org).

15th annual Diocesan Veterans Day Mass to be held in Sarasota

Diocesan Youth Rally Nov. 16

All students Grades 9 to 12 are invited to attend Diocese of Venice Youth Rally from 12:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Nov. 16, 2024, at the Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center, 75 Taylor Street, Punta Gorda. The theme for this year’s Rally is “Ignite.” This is a day dedicated to faith, fellowship, and fun, where all come together to have hearts ignited by the Lord Jesus, so that He can draw each person present into a deeper relationship with Himself. The Diocesan Youth Rally will feature inspiring talks, uplifting music, and opportunities to connect with other youth from across the Diocese. Don’t miss out on this incredible experience to grow in your faith and make lasting memories. Register now through your Parish. For further information please contact Andres Prias, Youth and Young Adult Outreach Director, Diocese of Venice Department of Evangelization prias@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-484-9543.

Legion of Mary Annual Retreat Sept. 28

The Legion of Mary Manasota Curia invites men and women for a day of prayer from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sept. 28, 2024, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice. The day includes breakfast, the Sacrament of Reconciliation, The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, lunch and talks. The guest speaker will be Bob Wilson, Director of Saint Paul Street Evangelization. The cost is $45 and seating is limited. RSVP by Sept. 9 to your Parish Legion of Mary Representative or to Kathi Bragdon at 908-419-7619.

Evangelization Training in September

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

A Walk With Jesus For Grieving Parents retreat in October

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

Women’s Bible Study in Naples

St. William Catholic Church, 601 Seagate Drive, Naples will once again be hosting the Naples Area Inter-Parish Women’s Bible Study entitled “Walking with Purpose.” This bible study was voted in the top 10 for Catholic programs in the country and last year the Church Hall accommodated close to 250 women. The bible study take place from 10 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. on Tuesdays, from Sept. 24 to Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2024. This year’s theme is “Reclaiming Friendship” and each participant is asked to purchase the book by the same name at https://walkingwithpurpose.com or on Amazon. Babysitting is available. For questions, details regarding babysitting and to register please contact Lisa McGowan by calling or texting 484-432-5128, or email mcgowanlh@gmail.com.

News briefs for the week of August 30, 2024

Posted on August 30, 2024August 30, 2024 by Bob Reddy

Bishop offers video invitation to Diocesan marriage Conference

Click this link https://vimeo.com/1003280007?share=copy, to view an invitation from Bishop Frank J. Dewane to all Catholic married and engaged couples to join him at the Diocese of Venice 4th Annual Together in Holiness Marriage Conference on Saturday, October 19, 2024. Faith, fellowship, and a beautiful celebration of the vocation of marriage. Space is limited! To reserve your spot, visit http://www.togetherinholiness.org/venice.

Food donations needed in Naples

To help fight hunger in Collier County, the Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc. food pantry, located at the Judy Sullivan Family Resource Center, 3174 Tamiami Trail, Naples, FL 34112, is seeking donations. The food pantry is in need of perishable foods such as: canned vegetables and fruits; rice, pasta and grains; peanut butter and canned protein (chicken, tuna, etc.), cereal and other pantry staples. For more details, please contact Allegra Belliard, Program Director, at 239-793-0059 ext. 3304, or at allegra.belliard@catholiccharitiesdov.org.

Support our seminarians

Support, encourage and educate future priests through the Venice Diocesan Council of Catholic Women Seminarian Fund. Join the VDCCW in celebrating Priesthood Sunday, Sept. 29, 2024, in a special and lasting way by sending your Parish Priest a Seminarian Fund “IN HONOR OF” card. This is a gift that keeps on giving. The Diocese is currently educating 18 men in various seminaries and a donation of any amount would be a great help (The donation amount will not be revealed to the recipient). To take part, please send your donation, made out to VDCCW Seminarian Fund (plus $1 to cover postage and printing) to: Cornelia Zanetti, Seminarian Fund Guardian, 5808 Gulf Drive, #204, Holmes Beach, FL 34217.

High school hosts evening Eucharistic Adoration for students and families

Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School in Sarasota hosted a Eucharistic Adoration with praise and music in the All Saints Chapel on the evening of Aug. 21, 2024. The Adoration was open to all families and led by Father Christian Chami, Parochial Vicar at nearby St. Jude Parish.

Backpacks blessed for school year

Father Eric Scanlan, Pastor of Incarnation Parish in Sarasota, blessed the backpacks of the students at Incarnation Catholic School following an all-school Mass on Aug. 26, 2024. Blessings were for the backpacks to help carry our students strongly, successfully, and safely throughout the school year. Father Scanlan also visited the classrooms to pray with the students and offer a blessing as well.

Young students tour Bradenton church

Kindergarten students at St. Joseph Catholic School in Bradenton were treated to a tour of the Parish church on Aug. 23, 2024. Liliana Ronderos, St. Joseph Parish Director of Religious Education, and Michelle Szczepanski, Parish Youth Minister, were the tour guides. The tour included stops at the various statues, the sacristy, the chapel and other key locations in the church. Each part of the Mass was explained to help the students better understand what they see each week. In the sacristy, some of the students were allowed to try on the priest vestments. During each stop, the students asked great questions, and they were eager to learn more.

Knights escort Silver Rose through Diocese

Each year, from early March through mid-December, Silver Roses are stewarded by Knights of Columbus councils along routes from Canada to Mexico. Every stop the Silver Rose makes throughout the pilgrimage is a rosary-centered occasion for Knights, parishioners and community members to pray for respect for life, for the spiritual renewal of each nation, and for the advancement of the message of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The Silver Rose visited 14 Parishes in the Diocese of Venice from Aug. 21 to Aug. 27, 2024. Stops included prayer services, the praying of the Holy Rosary or the celebration of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. This custom started in 1960 between Mexico and Texas. Now there are a total of eight silver roses, including one blessed by Pope Francis. The journey now starts in Canada and it travels to Mexico. The intent is the same: to reaffirm the Order’s commitment to the sanctity of life and honor the Blessed Virgin under her title of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Patroness of the Americas.

Catholic Thinkers Men’s Group 4th Season begins Sept. 4 in Naples

The Catholic Thinkers Men’s Group of St. Agnes Parish begins its fourth season at 9:30 a.m., Sept. 4, 2024, at Perkins Restaurant, 3585 Pine Ridge Road, Naples. The topic is; “National Eucharistic Congress: Were the Revival Objectives Achieved?” The discussion will last no more than 90 minutes and registration is limited to 30 participants. Admission is free; breakfast is not. You will need to register for every session at www.stagnesnaples.org to reserve your space. For more information, please contact Dr. George Blewitt, gblewitt5183@gmail.com.

15th annual Diocesan Veterans Day Mass to be held in Sarasota

Diocesan Youth Rally Nov. 16

Legion of Mary Annual Retreat Sept. 28

The Legion of Mary Manasota Curis invites men and women for a day of prayer from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sept. 28, 2024, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice. The day includes breakfast, the Sacrament of Reconciliation, The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, lunch and talks. The guest speaker will be Bob Wilson, Director of Saint Paul Street Evangelization. The cost is $45 and seating is limited. RSVP by Sept. 9 to your Parish Legion of Mary Representative or to Kathi Bragdon at 908-419-7619.

Catholic Charities Summertime Appeal concluding

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.

Evangelization Training in September

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

A Walk With Jesus For Grieving Parents retreat in October

Theology on Tap Sarasota Sept. 19 in Sarasota

Theology on Tap is a program for young adults in their 20s and 30s, providing an opportunity to explore faith topics in a relaxed and social setting. On Sept. 19, 2024, the gathering will be held at Big Top Brewing – Restaurant and Brewery, 3045 Fruitville Commons Boulevard, Sarasota. The evening begins with food and refreshments at 7 p.m. Presentations and discussions about the Catholic Faith begin at 8 p.m. The speaker will be Jeanne Berdeaux, Director of the Diocese of Venice Respect Life Office. Jeanne will discuss Amendment 4, Just Say No! For questions, please email Andres Prias at prias@dioceseofvenice.org.

Women’s Bible Study in Naples

Diocese honors Mary on Solemnity of Her Assumption

Posted on August 28, 2024August 28, 2024 by Bob Reddy

Pope Francis described why on Aug. 15 the Church celebrates one of the most important feasts dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary: the Solemnity of Her Assumption. “At the conclusion of Her earthly life, the Mother of Christ was raised in body and soul to Heaven, that is, in the glory of eternal life, in the full communion with God,” said

In celebration of this important Solemnity, Parishes throughout the Diocese of Venice offered additional Mass to allow the faithful to participate in this Holy Day of Obligation. In addition, Diocesan Catholic Schools also celebrated school-wide Masses.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church describes the Assumption as follows: “The Immaculate Virgin, when the course of her earthly life was finished, was taken up body and soul into heavenly glory, and exalted by the Lord as Queen over all things, so that she might be more fully conformed to her Son, the Lord of lords and conqueror of death.”

Bishop Frank J. Dewane stated, “Since the corruption of the human body is a consequence of sin, it would not be right that the Virgin Mary – who is free from sin – should be affected by this natural law. It is a privilege granted to Mary, as the Mother of Jesus.”

Pope Francis said that “Mary’s Assumption is a great mystery that concerns each one of us; it concerns our future. Mary, in fact, precedes us on the way in which all those go that, through baptism, have bound their life to Jesus, as Mary bound her life to Him. This (Solemnity) pre-announces the ‘new heavens and the new earth,’ with the risen Christ’s victory over death and the definitive defeat of the Evil One.”

Students at St. Joseph Catholic School in Bradenton observed the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary with the celebration of the first Mass of the 2024-2025 Academic Year. This was also the case at many other Diocesan Catholic Schools, as they prayed that all students hold Mary’s example close to their hearts as they navigate new classes, experiences, and friendships.

Following a Solemnity Mass for students St. Francis Xavier Catholic School in Fort Myers, third graders took time to reflect on ways they can be more like Mary throughout this year. They also created works of art which depicted the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The students at Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers joined as a student body for the first Mass of the academic year, which was celebrated by Father Shawn Roser. Father is the new school Chaplain and is also Parochial Vicar at nearby Church of the Resurrection of Our Lord Parish.

Jesuit Father John Belmonte, Diocesan Superintendent of Catholic Education, celebrated Mass on the Solemnity at Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School in Sarasota. Father Belmonte also reminded the students to grow in their devotion to the Blessed Virgin in their lives, using Mary as an example.

To stress this point, Father Belmonte spoke how in the New Testament, the last words spoken by Mary occurred during the Wedding at Cana: “Do as He says!” Her instruction to the servants – who represent the faithful throughout the generations – was to always do as Jesus, Her Son, says. “This is the lesson we must all learn and live by in our lives,” Father said.

Catholic students return to School for new academic year

Posted on August 19, 2024August 19, 2024 by Bob Reddy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

New state-of-the-art gymnasium and science and engineering center opens

Posted on August 19, 2024August 19, 2024 by Bob Reddy

To cheering delight of the 344 students at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School in Port Charlote, Father John Fitch used a huge pair of scissors to cut the ribbon on the doors to a new state-of-the-art gymnasium and science and engineering center.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony and subsequent celebration took place on Aug. 12, 2024, the first day of School for the 2024-2025 Academic Year.

Father Fitch, Pastor of St. Charles Borromeo Parish, told the students that it was the generosity of others who made the new center possible.

“They are not benefitting from this. They did this for you,” Father Fitch said. “Foster this attitude of gratitude in your hearts. This doesn’t just happen. It is a lot of work and sacrifice to present this gymnasium and the center for science and engineering to all of you. Be grateful and say, ‘Thank you,’ when you see someone at church. The credit for this beautiful building goes to them.”

Once the ribbon was cut, the students then entered the newly completed gymnasium, as teachers with pom-poms cheered and motivational music played on the loudspeakers.

The new gymnasium and center for science and engineering boasts a full-sized basketball court with bleacher seating, a state-of-the-art sound system and six retractable basketball goals. In addition, there are two ground floor classrooms that will be used for math classes, and two upstairs rooms, one is a fully equipped science lab, and other will be used as a robotics and STREAM (science, technology, religion, engineering, arts, math) lab.

“The facility will equip our students academically, physically, and spiritually so that they can more fully achieve their potential as children of God,” Father Fitch said.

The concept of building a dedicated gymnasium began in the 1990s, with the formal effort to raise the necessary $7 million starting in 2019. With an increased demand for student with expand STREAM skills, Bishop Frank J. Dewane encouraged the planners to include room in the project for specialized classrooms. This proved to be insightful, as enrollment has rapidly increased in the past five years, which has created challenges in having special rooms for math and science in the original School building.

Principal Amy Barron said the faculty and staff at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School, “strive to educate the whole child, body, mind and spirit, and this addition to our campus will provide a place for our students to play, grow and learn, while also being a source of School pride and spirit. We are truly blessed.”

Once inside the new gymnasium, the festivities began as the cheerleaders/teachers performed cheers and dance routines, with the students encouraged to join in from the bleachers and sidelines. Coach Larry Taylor, dressed as the School mascot, a Middle Ages Crusader, made a grand entrance with the help of a fog machine and laser lights.

A retractable basketball goal was lowered before a teacher, the principal, two students, the coach, two of the primary contractors, and Father Fitch, attempted to make the first basket. Once the first basket was made by eight-grader Christian Telhomme, confetti cannons blasted and a roar of joy rose from the students.

Additional fun activities took place throughout the day with students later getting the opportunity to have fun on the basketball court.

St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School was established in 1960 and is the only Catholic School serving Charlotte County. It serves children from Pre-K through 8^th grade and is one of 15 Catholic Schools within the Diocese of Venice, which serves about 6,500 students in grades pre-K through 12^th grade.

The School states as its mission: “St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School is a place where every child is spiritually and academically nurtured to their fullest potential, creating lifelong learners who value and live our Catholic Faith.” For more about St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School, visit https://www.stcbs.org.

Bishop blesses new additions to St. Joseph Catholic School

Posted on August 9, 2024August 9, 2024 by Bob Reddy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Area Catholic Schools Blessed with New Leaders

Posted on August 9, 2024August 9, 2024 by Bob Reddy

Bishop Dewane Names Five New Principals for the Diocese of Venice

By Karen Barry Schwarz, Special to the Florida Catholic

Five area Catholic schools will begin the academic year with a new principal at the helm. Bishop Frank J. Dewane has recently named school principals at Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School, Venice; St. Ann Catholic School, Naples; St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School, Port Charlotte; St. Andrew Catholic School, Cape Coral; and St. Catherine Catholic School, Sebring.

“The Diocese of Venice is blessed to have new principals with not only extensive Catholic school leadership experience, but also such great enthusiasm for the faith,” said Bishop Dewane. “I believe these are the leaders who will help our Catholic school students learn to cultivate every dimension of their lives for the glory of God.”

“We look for educational leaders who themselves are exemplary Catholic role models, bearing witness to the Gospel every day,” added Rev. John Belmonte, S.J., Superintendent of Catholic Education for the Diocese of Venice. “In addition to providing an excellent academic experience, these new principals will help our students to be formed as disciples of Christ, in an unapologetically Catholic environment.”

Three of the newly appointed principals are new to Florida, while two have been promoted from within the Diocese of Venice Catholic Schools.

Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School’s new principal Deacon Michael Pipitone comes to Venice from Wisconsin, where he was principal at St. Peter’s Catholic School in Middleton. Deacon Pipitone has 23 years of Catholic School experience, as both a teacher and principal, and is a Permanent Deacon, ordained to the Diaconate in the Diocese of Rockford in 2018. He is also a Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus.

St. Ann Catholic School in Naples new principal Micah O’Connor joins St. Ann’s from West Virginia, where she was principal of Our Lady of Fatima School. Ms. O’Connor has more than 16 years of combined education experience as a teacher and principal.

Amy Barron joins St. Charles Borromeo in Port Charlotte from New York City, where she served as both a Catholic School teacher and principal for the last 23 years, most recently as Principal at St. Mel’s Catholic Academy in Flushing, NY.

“I believe that children are our greatest gifts from God,” said Mrs. Barron. “They are tomorrow’s big thinkers, problem solvers and leaders. I am excited to begin this new chapter in my life with my family here in Florida and to serve the St. Charles Borromeo School and community. It is my goal to enable the children to stay grounded in their faith yet reach for the stars.”

Two of the new principals were named from within the Diocese of Venice Catholic Schools. St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral will be led by Bambi Giles, who has extensive Catholic School teaching experience, and has served as St. Andrew’s assistant principal for the last seven years. Steven Cullipher will take the reins as interim principal at St. Catherine Catholic School in Sebring, where he has been a teacher for the last six years, and a parishioner for 10.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to work with Father Jose, the outstanding team of faculty and staff of St. Catherine Catholic School, and to be able to serve them and the students and families of our student community,” said Cullipher.

Four of the five schools with new leadership serve children in grades pre-K through 8^th; St. Ann’s teaches Kindergarten through 8^th. The five schools represent only a third of the Catholic schools within the Diocese of Venice, which serve about 6,000 students in 15 schools, pre-K through 12^th grade.

Catholic education in Florida has grown radically over the last decade, due most recently and in part to the state’s School Choice program, and Diocese of Venice Catholic schools have enjoyed the largest enrollment growth of any Diocese in Florida. All 15 Diocese of Venice Catholic schools are at capacity, many with waiting pools.

According to the National Catholic Education Association’s (NCEA) United States Catholic Elementary and Secondary Schools 2023 – 2024: Annual Statistical Report on Schools, Enrollment and Staffing report, current numbers indicate that Catholic school enrollment is steady, and families continue to send their children to Catholic schools even when they move from one region of the country to another.

“Catholic schools continue the legacy that has characterized Catholic education for generations,” reported the NCEA. “Academic excellence, a strong sense of community and a faith-filled education for students nationwide.”

Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School, Venice – Deacon Michael Pipitone

Deacon Michael Pipitone joins Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School with 23 years of Catholic school experience, both as a teacher and principal at the elementary and high school levels. Most recently he was Principal at St. Peter’s Catholic School in Middleton, Wisconsin in the Madison Diocese. Deacon Pipitone earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from St. Mary’s University in Winona, Minnesota. He was born and raised in Rockford, Illinois where he began his teaching career at Marian Catholic High School. He is a Permanent Deacon, ordained to the Diaconate in the Rockford Diocese in 2018. He holds a certificate in Bioethics from Holy Apostles College, Connecticut, and is presently completing his Doctorate in Theology from Pontifex University. Deacon Pipitone is married to Jeanna (22 years) and has three children: twin sons, Michael Joe and Luke, who are college sophomores, and daughter Gianna who will be a high school freshman in the fall. In addition to his educational accomplishments and academic pursuits, Deacon Pipitone is a fourth degree Knight of Columbus and a former dairy farmer which is where he says he learned the value of hard work.

St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School, Port Charlotte – Amy Barron

As a product of Catholic schools, Amy has dedicated most of her career to Catholic education within the Diocese of Brooklyn in New York, where she served for more than 20 years. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Rider University (NJ, 1996), a Master of Education (Queens College, 2001), and a Master of Education Leadership from Fordham University (Bronx, NY 2018). Amy began teaching 5^th grade at St. Brigid School in Brooklyn, NY where she taught science and religion. After nine years at St. Brigid, Amy moved up to teaching on the high school level and for the next 13 years taught biology, psychology and anatomy at St. Joseph High School, an all-girls Catholic high school also in Brooklyn, NY. While at St. Joseph High School, Amy served as Student Advisory Facilitator, Science Department Chairperson, Dean of Faculty, and eventually Assistant Principal. In 2019, Amy took on the Principal role at St. Mel’s Catholic Academy in Flushing, NY where she served for the past five years. Amy has been married for 20 years and met her husband while working at Brigid School (he was the physical education teacher). The Barrons have two teenage daughters (18 and 15). She loves baseball and animals and is looking forward to her family’s new life in Florida.

St. Ann Catholic School, Naples – Micah O’Connor

Micah O’Connor has more than 16 years of combined experience as a teacher and principal. Having previously served as Principal of Our Lady Fatima in Huntington, West Virginia for six successful years, Ms. O’Connor has a proven track record of fostering academic growth and creating a supportive learning environment. Before assuming the Principal role, Ms. O’Connor spent a decade as a dedicated teacher, shaping students’ minds and instilling a love for learning. Ms. O’Connor holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education, a Master of Arts degree in Elementary Education, and a Certification in School Principalship from Marshall University, demonstrating a commitment to ongoing professional development and leadership excellence.

St. Andrew Catholic School, Cape Coral – Bambi Giles

Bambi Giles has served as Assistant Principal for seven years at St. Andrew Catholic School and has extensive teaching experience including roles as fifth-grade teacher, middle school English/language arts teacher, and Resource Coordinator. Bambi holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education with a minor in Health Education from Plymouth State University in New Hampshire and a Master of Science in Educational Leadership from Arkansas State University.

St. Catherine Catholic School, Sebring – Steven Cullipher

After a successful career in the theatre and television lighting industry, Steven Cullipher retired from the lighting industry in 2014 and relocated to Sebring and began attending St. Catherine Parish. He attended South Florida State College, receiving an Associate Bachelor of Arts degree, Summa Cum Laude, and a Bachelor of Applied Science in Supervision and Management. While attending South Florida State College, he began his career in education, progressing from AVID tutor, to substitute teacher, to instructional paraprofessional, and finally to elementary teacher. In 2018, Fr. Jose Gonzalez, V.F. expressed the need for a third-grade teacher for St. Catherine Catholic School and Mr. Cullipher answered the call. While teaching third grade at St. Catherine, he completed his Master of Education in Educational Leadership at the American College of Education and has served the last three years as Assistant Principal. Mr. Cullipher and his wife have two adult children, one granddaughter, with another granddaughter on the way. Mr. Cullipher states, “I am honored to for the opportunity to work with Father Jose, the outstanding team of faculty and staff of St. Catherine Catholic School, and to be able to serve them and the students and families of our school community.”

New Catholic school year begins Aug. 12

Posted on August 9, 2024 by Bob Reddy

The excitement is building as the faculty and staff at the 15 Diocese of Venice Catholic schools prepare lesson plans and decorate classrooms for the start of the 2024-2025 Academic Year on Aug. 12, 2024.

More than 80 new teachers were welcomed during an Aug. 2 orientation session at San Pedro Parish in North Port which was presented by the Diocesan Office of Catholic Education, and featured Superintendent Father John Belmonte, SJ, and Jennifer Falestiny, Director of Curriculum. The large number of new teachers is due to continued rapid increase in enrollment throughout the Diocese.

Father Belmonte first led the group in prayer and offered a brief history of Catholic schools in Florida and the Diocese of Venice. Father Belmonte stressed the need for the new employees to be “Catholic School Culture” advocates in whatever role they may have in the different schools. A “Catholic School Culture” is the vision, values, systems, language, expectations, behaviors, and beliefs that increase a school’s and Diocese’s chances of accomplishing the strategy of fulfilling its mission: to introduce the world to its Savior.

“To achieve this, each teacher must make their classroom a place of theological reflection, because this is where you will pray for them and challenge them to grow in their faith,” Father Belmonte said. ““In your classroom, in your school, in your heart; everything is sacred. Everything is given to us by God. It all has value. That is what we believe. You will learn from your own students about the faith, and together you will strive to help them to achieve the ultimate goal, that is to ascend to heaven.”

As Catholic school teachers, they must work to inspire, challenge and protect their students in the classroom where everything is sacred and holy, Father Belmonte continued. This includes all of those who teach, Father Belmonte said, including those who teach subjects other than religion or theology.

“We want each of our students to have meaning and purpose in their life by learning the sacredness of themselves,” Father Belmonte said. “You can do this by giving them the ‘best day of their life,’ every day.”

Throughout the day, the new teachers learned about the Diocese and the crucial role they will play in helping to build up the faith life of the students and families with whom they will interact. The group comes to the Diocese of Venice Catholic schools with a wide variety of personal and professional experiences and skills. A few in the group are new to teaching and were joyfully welcomed. Still others have many years of experience.

Falestiny explained that the Diocesan Catholic schools “do things better than other school systems. We have lots of programs and procedures in place that might seem overwhelming but they each serve a purpose, and you will get it eventually.”

The new teachers join the Diocese at a time of record enrollment at each school, with extensive waiting pools at several. Final numbers are expected to exceed 6,200 this year, representing a growth of more than 40 percent in the last four years.

Teachers at all 15 Diocesan Catholic schools work conscientiously to provide Christ-centered learning experiences that are translatable to the real world, providing children with the tools they need to be successful beyond the classroom.

During the orientation, the new teachers also took part in Diocesan Safe Environment training and learned about their employee benefits, risk management, workplace safety, certification process, as well as about standard and ethical conduct.

All Diocesan Catholic schools will open the week of Aug. 12. For more information about Diocese of Venice Catholic Schools, please visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/offices/offices-departments/education/.