Tag: education

Online programming a blessing for Religious Education

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Religious education programs in Parishes throughout the Diocese of Venice have been embracing the need for more online content. This content can be both exciting and accessible to a more modern generation of young learners.

When the COVID-19 Pandemic struck, causing religious education classes to be taught virtually, the Diocese of Venice was blessed to have temporary free access to Formed.org, a product of the Augustine Institute which provides a trusted engaging entertainment alternative in support of a Catholic lifestyle so as to help users grow in understanding of their Faith. This is done through Catholic educational content, including Catholic movies, children’s programing, audio dramas and books. In addition, there are online Bible studies, sacramental prep materials, documentaries and talks from leading Catholic experts. All content is available through any electronic device, with much also available in Spanish.

Diocese of Venice Director of Religious Education Anne Chrzan explained that many Parishes already had subscriptions to the Formed.org content, while others were excited about the new access.

“Many people view Formed as a Catholic “Netflix,” but it really is a lot more than an on-demand movie service,” Chrzan added. “Formed provides educational content for children and adults. The material can be used by Catholic schools and Religious Education programs, youth, parent or senior education groups.  It is relatively easy to watch or learn using your smartphone or computer.”

Liliana Ronderos, Director Religious Education at St. Joseph Parish in Bradenton, began using Formed.org in April. “It was a God given opportunity that allowed us to continue to reach out to the families and parishioners, despite of the closing.”

Ronderos said the description of what Formed is and access/log in information was shared with parishioners through catechists. “As we were able to get familiarized with the content, we began to incorporate specific Formed materials into our programs.”

By June 2020, St. Joseph Parish was using the programming across the board in some way shape or form. The consistent positive feedback made the decision easy to get a permanent subscription.

The Augustine Institute made an offer to the Diocese to provide, at a discount, for continuing or renewed subscriptions. It was eventually negotiated that Parishes would receive a 50 percent reduction in cost for an annual subscription. This discount not only applied to a maximum of 20 Parishes with new subscriptions but offered a discount for those already registered.

“We were able to continue to enjoy Formed without interruption because of that,” Ronderos said. “We even have a fund towards next year’s subscription. “

At St. Joseph, the Formed content has been used to enhance existing religious education classes in a way that is fun and exciting for everyone. New classes for parishioners are being added. For example, in the coming weeks, the Parish will present an Advent series for adults and more content for children going through sacramental preparations.

One of the few challenges is helping older parishioners navigate the sign-in process and using the website to find desired content, Ronderos explained. Early in 2021, the Parish will be offering greater support for the seniors with the assistance of students in Confirmation classes.

Chrzan said the Diocese of Venice was blessed to come to this important agreement with the Augustine Institute for the benefit of all Parishes. Parishioners need only check with their home Parish to learn how to register and gain immediate access to the programming.

“In light of the Pandemic, this opportunity came about at a critical time, when the faithful needed to have continued, reliable access, to content about the Catholic Faith, all in a way that is safe for everyone,” Chrzan added.

New endowment fund established through Foundation

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The Catholic Community Foundation of Southwest Florida has announced a new endowment fund that was established by members of the Notre Dame Naples Club in honor of Father Thomas Glackin.

The Fr. Thomas J. Glackin Memorial Scholarship Fund was established to provide need-based tuition assistance to financially needy Catholic students at St. John Neumann Catholic High School in Naples. The Club is asking all those interested in honoring Father Glackin to contribute to the Memorial Fund as a way to remember him.

Father Glackin served as the Chaplain of the Notre Dame Naples Club for more than 20 years. An avid Notre Dame fan, Father Glackin was Pastor of both St. John the Evangelist and St. Agnes Parishes in Naples.

To learn more about the Foundation or to donate to the Father Glackin Memorial Fund, please visit: https://ccfdioceseofvenice.org/donate-to-the-fr-thomas-glackin-memorial-scholarship-fund/.

You can also contact the Catholic Community Foundation by phone at 941-441-1124, by email at Morse@dioceseofvenice.org, or by mail at 1000 Pinebrook Rd., Venice, FL 34285

Diocesan principals gather

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The ongoing mission of Diocese of Venice Catholic schools is to introduce the world to Our Savior. To better accomplish this, the principals of the Diocese are gathering periodically to receive guidance and updates from the Department of Catholic Education on how best to accomplish this task.

Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocese Superintendent of Catholic Education led the gathering of principals on Oct. 29, 2020 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice. Father Belmonte plans to hold several of these gatherings in the coming months to ensure everyone is on the same page on what is expected of the schools and what is being planned to assist them reach their goals in the future.

During the day, Father expanded on his previous vision of developing and deepening the Catholic culture at each of the schools. Only a few months into his position, Father Belmonte wants each school to place a greater focus on introducing the students, families, teachers and entire community to our Savior. By building up the Catholic culture of a school, which begins with the principals, a new identity will develop which will show the outside that these are indeed Catholic schools.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane had lunch with the principals and spoke to them about how proud he is for the hard work they put in to ensure each school opened safely in August while there were still many unknowns about the global pandemic.

The Bishop also thanked them for their patience and dedication in overcoming these challenges and their ability to orchestrate the reopening with results that have been remarkable.

“I think you have done a great job, and I know it has been a tough year as demands are greater than ever,” Bishop Dewane added. “The results speak for themselves. We have had a few bumps in the road, but a large number of students who started the year learning virtually have returned. That speaks to the confidence the parents have in what you and your staff are doing. Thank you again, and keep up the good work.”

The meeting also covered the reintroduction and reemphasis on curriculum standards and the roll out of a new classroom observation software.

In addition, Jennifer Falestiny, Diocesan Curriculum Specialist, shared updates on the ongoing efforts to increase the use of STREAM (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) programs in the classrooms at all grade levels. Falestiny also shared information about an upcoming program focusing on robot technology. More information on this effort will release soon.

Schools celebrates saints, souls and more

Posted on by Bob Reddy

One of the blessings of a Catholic school is the gift of weaving education, faith, and family traditions into the very fabric of the school community. As the days of fall become shorter, the reality of eternity is celebrated by many cultures. In a Catholic school, there is much more to celebrate such as All Hallows Eve, Dia de los Muertos, All Saints Day and All Souls Day

This year, St. Joseph Catholic School in Bradenton had to be creative in celebrating as a school community. The students each prepared an art project to decorate the courtyard with four areas to highlight this season. Teachers and students shared a reflection as their small cohorts visited each area. The Parent Teacher Organization safely prepared treat bags for each student. As music filled the courtyard, students visited each station where they received a treat or symbol that recognized that celebration.

The first station was for All Hallows Eve. This station was a reminder that life can sometimes be frightening, but together, we can overcome challenges with faith. Pumpkins and ornamental gourds from Hydro Harvest Farms in Ruskin, filled this area. Each child got to pick ornamental gourds to put in their bags. Older students were able to select pumpkins to take home. Students prayed for all affected by COVID-19 and prayed for the day we can all remove our masks and celebrate in groups again.

The next station celebrated Día de los Muertos, as a time to remember our loved ones. The students participated in remembering departed relatives and friends as they learned about cultural traditions.

The third station celebrated All Saints Day, and the many Saints who inspire all by their lives of holiness. The Saints brought God’s presence to the world through their love and care for others. Since the Saints always followed God, sunflowers with pictures of Saints filled this area. Students shared in a Litany of the Saints, learned that each of us is called to holiness, and this is a day to remember all Saints, including those whose names we may never know.

The final station was in honor of All Souls Day. Students had prepared pinwheels with the names of family and friends to remember. The students reflected on the Body of Christ and God’s Spirit that fills their lives. They also prayed a decade of the rosary for the faithful departed. Following the prayers, each student received a cross to wear over their heart as a reminder of their love for God and one another.

A pumpkin decorating contest completed the day. Families had prepared pumpkins at home and submitted pictures. A slide presentation was set to music to share with family and friends. E-learners were able to share in these projects from home.

Bishop encourages students in Cape Coral to pray

Posted on by Bob Reddy

When Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrates Mass at Diocese of Venice Catholic schools he challenges the students to take upon a task during the coming year to help them grow closer to the Lord. This year, he asked them to pray more often.

This was the challenge given to the students at St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral on Oct. 21, 2020.

To introduce the concept of an increased prayer life, Bishop Dewane first asked the students how many of them want to be friends with Jesus. After a bit of a hesitation they all raised their hands.

“When you want to be friends with someone, you talk to them, you speak to them often and you come to know them and become friends,” the Bishop explained. “With cell phones you communicate a lot. Well, one way is to communicate with the Jesus, the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Saints, is through prayer.”

Prayer is important, particularly during the time of a global pandemic, Bishop Dewane continued. Signs of the pandemic were everywhere, as students wore masks and were seated apart and the Mass was livestreamed to the students who were learning virtually from home.

“Do you think you can pray more this year?” “Yes!!” the students enthusiastically replied.

“I accept that. I know you can. During this time, we need to remain united in prayer. Sometimes we must keep a distance to be safe, but that doesn’t have to mean we are distant from the person. Jesus is in Heaven but also close to us. We can be close to Him in a different way, through prayer.”

The Bishop said he will ask the teachers to encourage more daily prayer and that the students should include not only each other but also the people of the Parish who sacrifice to support the school.

“I never ask you anything I think you can’t do,” Bishop Dewane concluded. “You all have to discipline yourselves when you might not feel like praying. Take the time to talk to Jesus. Talk to His Mother Mary. Pray to the Patron Saint of your School, St. Andrew. Know that I pray for you daily. Be young men and women of prayer.”

After the conclusion of Mass, the eighth graders were brought forward to take an oath of leadership. Following the oath, Bishop Dewane presented each with a pin marking them as St. Andrew Catholic School Leaders.

When they were dismissed to returned to school, Bishop Dewane wished them each a blessed day and school year. They also did elbow bumps in lieu of handshakes.

After the younger students left, Bishop Dewane spoke with the eighth graders and encouraged them to consider choosing Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers where he assured them that they would excel. He also answered their questions which ranged from what the Bishop does, likes and dislikes, to in-depth inquiries which focused on the Church teachings on a variety of subjects. Before returning to the classroom, Bishop Dewane stood for a group photo with the eighth graders.

Local golfers excel at regionals

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Golfers from the three Diocese of Venice Catholic high schools excelled during the regional tournament on Oct. 19, 2020 at The Eagles Golf Club in Odessa.

The Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School boys’ team from Sarasota took the top spot in the 1A Region 3 tournament, while the Bishop Verot Catholic High School girls’ team from Fort Myers took the girls title. Both teams qualified for the State Championships to be played Nov. 3-4 at Mission Inn Resorts and Club in Howey-in-the-Hills.

Individually, Verot girl’s golfer Talia Rodino took the 1A-3 Region Title, while her freshman teammate Morgan Franklin placed fourth. Both qualified for the State Championship. Verot boy’s golfer Michael Bevins finished third while St. John Neumann Catholic High School golfer Tyler Stamerro finished fourth, both also qualifying for the State Championships.

In the boy’s tournament, Bishop Verot finished fifth and St. John Neumann in Naples finished eighth. The Verot girls’ team was the only Diocesan Catholic high school to qualify for the regional tournament.

News Briefs for week of October 20, 2020

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Students learn about growing a garden

How does your garden grow!? Students in grades K-4 at St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School in Naples are participating in the Jr. Master Gardener 4-H program through the University of Florida. As part of the Science curriculum, these virtual classes teach students about plants and gardening and provide hands-on experiences to help expand our STREAM (science, technology, religion, engineering, arts, mathematics) Program.

Pregnancy Clinic celebrates 500th ultrasound

Community Pregnancy Clinics, Inc. (CPCI), which has Pro-Life facilities in Naples, Fort Myers, Sarasota and Gainesville, announced that the Sarasota office performed its 500th ultrasound on Oct. 8, 2020. The clinic, which opened in 2017, has established its presence as a trusted provider of life-affirming pregnancy and reproductive healthcare in the community. The ultrasound in Sarasota revealed a 14-week-old baby waving hello. CPCI thanks the Knights of Columbus for their generosity in providing Sarasota’s ultrasound machine. This gift has revealed the beating hearts of over 500 babies to their parents. To congratulate the CPCI Sarasota team or to learn more about the good work of CPCI, you can send an email to sarasota@communitypregnancyclinic.com.

40 Hour Adoration

Christ the King Parish, 1900 Meadowood St., Sarasota, is hosting a 40-hour Adoration beginning at 1 p.m., Oct. 25, and ending with a Procession at 6 a.m., Tuesday, Oct. 27. All are invited to join at any time during these 40 hours of silent Eucharistic Adoration. The devotion is intended as reparation to our Dear Savior for the outrages committed against Him in the Most Blessed Sacrament, and for the sins of our nation which cry to heaven for vengeance. For more information, please call 941-924-2777 or email office@christthekingsarasota.org.

Outdoor concert to honor veterans

St. Agnes Parish, 7775 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples, welcomes all to their annual Veterans Day Concert to be held outdoors on the Parish grounds at 6 p.m., Nov. 18, 2020. Tickets are $30 and seating is limited and will be socially distanced. You also have the option to view the concert online for $15. All proceeds benefit the Parish Catholic Faith Appeal. For tickets, please call 321-209-1381 or 239-677-5347.

Year of Saint Joseph

On the Solemnity of St. Joseph, March 19, Bishop Frank J. Dewane, in the context of the Coronavirus, consecrated the Diocese of Venice to the care and protection of St. Joseph. The Bishop announced a “Year of St. Joseph” beginning March 19, 2020 through March 19, 2021. St. Joseph, often referred to as the Protector, can be our protector during this time of the pandemic. To pray a Novena to St. Joseph please visit the Year of St. Joseph webpage at https://dioceseofvenice.org/a-year-of-st-joseph/.

Prayers and Resources briefs

Parish donations

During this challenging time in the life and mission of the Diocese of Venice, our Parishes face increased risk of financial shortfalls due to the COVID-19 Pandemic and its effects on everyday life. Parishes depend on weekly financial gifts to continue their ministries, especially in this critical time of crisis. The Diocese of Venice is providing an online platform and encourages the Faithful to support their Parish. Please visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/ways-to-give/parish-donations-online/ to donate to your Parish. The Faithful may also contribute through usual channels (e.g., envelopes, and through the Parish online giving option). Together we will navigate through this crisis, provide assistance to those in need, and secure the road ahead for the Parishes within the Diocese of Venice.

Dispensation

As Bishop Frank J. Dewane continues to listen to public health data and hear from Priests and Parishioners about the experiences at Diocesan Parishes, the dispensation given to attend Sunday Mass has been extended through Nov. 27, 2020, and depending on conditions, perhaps longer. At the same time, Bishop Dewane invites the Catholic Faithful who are able, to return to their Parish for the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. Please check the Diocese of Venice website for any updates.

Livestreaming

The Diocese of Venice will continue livestreaming the Mass through the Diocese website (www.dioceseofvenice.org) and Facebook pages from the Catholic Center in Venice at 9:15 a.m. daily as the dispensation to attend Mass remains.

Sunday Televised Mass

The Televised Mass for the Homebound is available throughout the Diocese each Sunday. In northern parts of the Diocese (Manatee, Highlands, Hardee, Sarasota, DeSoto and Charlotte counties) the Mass airs on television at 9:30 a.m. on the CW Network. In the southern portions of the Diocese (Collier, Lee, Glades, Hendry, Charlotte counties) the Mass airs at 10:30 a.m., on WFTX-TV (FOX-4). This same Mass can be found on the Diocese of Venice website at any time during the week, www.dioceseofvenice.org/tvmass. Please check local listings for channel information.

Online Resources

A special coronavirus webpage is located on the Diocese of Venice website at www.dioceseofvenice.org. Resources include links to the Mass, the prayer for an Act of the Spiritual Communion, videos of the Stations of the Cross, Divine Mercy Chaplet and Pray the Rosary. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops website, www.usccb.org, also posts the daily Mass readings.

Act of Spiritual Communion

It has long been a Catholic understanding that when circumstances prevent one from receiving Holy Communion, it is possible to make an Act of Spiritual Communion which is a source of grace. Spiritual Communion means uniting one’s self in prayer with Christ’s sacrifice and worshiping Him in His Body and Blood.

The most common reason for making an Act of Spiritual Communion is when a person cannot attend Mass, as is the case during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Acts of Spiritual Communion increase our desire to receive sacramental Communion and help us avoid the sins that would make us unable to receive Holy Communion worthily.

For all who will not be able to receive the Holy Eucharist in person, consider this special prayer, an Act of Spiritual Communion:

My Jesus,
I believe that You
are present in the Most Holy Sacrament.
I love You above all things,

and I desire to receive You into my soul.
Since I cannot at this moment receive You sacramentally,
come at least spiritually into my heart.
I embrace You as if You were already there

and unite myself wholly to You.
Never permit me to be separated from You.
Amen.

Students share their support forlaw enforcement

Posted on by Bob Reddy

“Blessed are the Peacemakers, for they shall be called Children of God” Mat 5:9

Students at each of the Diocese of Venice Catholic schools recently took part in a special event, Faith and Blue Weekend, a public-private partnership to show law enforcement officers appreciation from Faith communities nationwide, and an effort to build a united community for all.

Letters of appreciation from students were presented to officers and deputies across the Diocese during prayer services and Masses. In addition, other care packages were presented. The notes thanked the deputies and officers “for their service, for keeping everyone safe and for their safety as they put their life on the line for others.”

The Sarasota Police Department received a package of notes from students at St. Martha Catholic School and St. Mary Academy. Each of these included the “Police Office Prayer.” The Department posted their thanks along with several images on social media: “THANK YOU to the incredible students & staff at St. Martha (and Mary) Catholic School for the outpouring of cards, notes and treats for National Faith and Blue – Each note is so uplifting to our Officers and Civilians. We can’t thank you enough!”

The two schools also honored the Sarasota County Deputy Sheriff who serves as security at the two schools. Deputy Bauer was treated with a gift package as well as a lawn sign which read: “Honk! Honk! for Deputy Bauer – Faith and Blue.”

Several other Diocesan Catholic schools also held ceremonies honoring local law enforcement.

At St. Ann Catholic School in Naples, officers from the Naples Police Department were invited for Mass on Oct. 9, 2020. Afterwards, students personally handed the officers their letters of support and encouragement.

St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral included a St. Michael the Archangel pin and prayer card with the notes from students in deliveries to members of the Lee County Sheriff’s Office and Cape Coral Police Department. Current and/or retired members of law enforcement who are family members of students at Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School in Venice were invited to the school for a special presentation.

In addition to Diocesan Catholic school activities, Parishes throughout the Diocese of Venice were encouraged to offer special prayer petitions and blessings to law enforcement in attendance at Masses throughout the weekend of Oct. 9-12.

Here are some of the messages written by students to law enforcement officers:

  • “Thank you for helping others and saving people’s lives, for teaching them how to better people.”
  • “Thank you for always taking care of us and keeping us safe… Remember God is always with you and keeping you safe.
  • “Thank you for all you do for us. You risk your life to protect us. You keep us safe and I hope you stay safe.”
  • “You are a hero to our community, and I admire you very much for that.”
  • “You inspire many of us to be more helpful, strong, giving and brave.”
  • “Thank you for your bravery and service to the community!”
  • “There are 6,500 spoken languages today so… there are 6,500 different ways to say thank you. Thank you, 6,500 times, for risking your life every day to keep us safe. Thank you, 6,500 times, for catching the people who may not keep us as safe as you do.”
  • “Each day you go to work not knowing if you will return to your family and friends. Even during these crazy times, your sacrifice to this country is what will make us prevail as a unified country. As a son of a police officer I would like to thank you for your service to this country and community.”
  • “Thank you for protecting us even during this tough time. I really appreciate all the things you have done to protecting your community.”
  • “Thank you for standing by our side and I hope you are safe and to know that God is always next to you. Stay Blessed!”
  • “I know that you put your life on the line for our protection and I want to thank you for that.”
  • “The world needs more people like you, so thank you!”
  • “Thank you for keeping our community safe, we give you thanks for everything you do for us, some of you may not be treated well, but still thank you. LOVE POLICE!”

 

 

Celebrating the Month of the Rosary in different ways

Posted on by Bob Reddy

A determined group in Bradenton braved the rain to be sure to participate in the annual America Needs Fatima Public Square Rosary Crusade on Oct. 10, 2020 in front of Ss. Peter and Paul the Apostles Parish seeking prayers for our country.

A dozen such prayer rallies were scattered throughout the Diocese of Venice, joining some 21,000 others nationwide. The goal of the America Needs Fatima rallies is to win the heart and soul of America for Mary by spreading Our Lady’s Fatima message and promoting devotion to Her Immaculate Heart.

The rallies are scheduled at noon on the closest Saturday to the different recorded Our Lady of Fatima apparitions, the last of which occurred Oct. 13, 1917. While rallies earlier in 2020 were cancelled because of the global pandemic, the number of nationwide October rallies exceeded all expectations and appropriately take place during the Month of the Holy Rosary.

One of the participants in Bradenton said that now, more than ever – with a global pandemic and social unrest in the U.S., prayers are needed for our nation to seek the intercessions of Mary and make God a more central part of life. While the rain kept some away, she added the presence of people praying the rosary on a major road is an important image for all to see. As some drivers and passengers waved or honked their horns in support, others looked curiously upon the group. “We are making a difference by being out here. It’s wonderful.”

The rosary rally in Parrish, organized by the Knights of Columbus based at St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Parish, gathered at the intersection of U.S. 301 and Fort Hammer Road. At the same time a group of more than 50 prayed at the Venice Beach pavilion where organizers said prayer intentions were for every federal, state, county and local government worker.

A few days earlier, Oct. 7, 2020 marked the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary and once again several commemorations took place.

Jesus the Worker Parish in Fort Myers held a vigil and celebration on Oct. 6-7, as the Feast Day is a national holiday for the Guatemalan Catholic community. The pandemic curtailed the usual larger Parish-wide fiesta. However, Oblate of St. Francis de Sales Father Patrick O’Connor explained the vigil and commemoration were too important to cancel altogether.

“We still held our Las Mañanitas (prayers and song in honor of Our Lady) and Mass,” Father O’Connor explained. “Afterwards, there was a small reception and people were provided with bags of food and drink so they could continue the celebration at home with their family.”

Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School in Venice had a special dedication of sacred art, a painting depicting Our Lady of Fatima, which was placed in the school office lobby. Father Richard and Father Robert Beligotti donated this artwork to the school, Principal Nicole Loseto explained. Tom and Nancy Murphy donated the frame in memory of Nancy’s sister, Lois. Father Richard Beligotti led the blessing and dedication ceremony which was streamed live to the entire school.

Meanwhile, students and faithful from throughout the Diocese joined the Diocese of Venice in participating in a virtual rosary event hosted by U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. The event was led by Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles, President of the Conference, who had called for this moment of prayer with the intention of uniting Catholics across the country at this time when there is much unrest and uncertainty.

Verot tackles Mooney in rivalry football game

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The Homecoming Football Game for the Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School Cougars on Oct. 9, 2020 in Sarasota was spoiled by a tough loss to rival Bishop Verot Catholic High School of Fort Myers.

The two teams fought back and forth throughout the game with Verot leading at halftime with a score of 19-17. Two late Verot touchdowns, a 26-yard run by Kerby Joseph, and then a 38-yard interception return by Keon Anderson sealed the Verot victory in the fourth quarter. The final score was 40-24 with Verot taking home the winner’s trophy back to Fort Myers.

Present for the game were Bishop Frank J. Dewane and Diocesan Superintendent of Education, Father John Belmonte, SJ, along with Mooney Chaplain Father Eric Scanlan who offered the opening benediction.

The crowd in Sarasota was the largest of the season for Cardinal Mooney as stadium capacity is capped at 50 percent, up from 25 percent earlier in the season. Masks were required for all fans. A large group from Verot also travelled to watch the game which was also streamed live on social media by both schools.

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