Catholic Schools pride themselves in providing students with a well-rounded faith-filled education all with a little fun in the mix.
A scene from the outdoor eighth grade graduation st St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral on May 20, 2020.
It should come as no surprise that when it came to the eighth-grade graduation ceremonies and events recognizing these students, fun affairs complete with caps and gowns were organized.
For example, St. Joseph Catholic School in Bradenton, where a formal graduation is tentatively planned for July, it was decided that a socially distanced parade would be a good way to honor the eighth graders.
On May 21, 2020, with Bradenton Police, Manatee County Sheriff’s Office and Manatee County Fire Rescue vehicles in the lead, the sirens and honking horns of dozens of vehicles brought smiles from the students and their proud parents. Alumni, schoolmates, teachers, community members and family members were invited to participate. Vehicles were decorated with messages recognizing the school, students and teachers alike. Several vehicles were covered in balloons or had colorful writing on windows, while others had cheering adults and children waving signs.
As the vehicles passed the students, with their family, stood about 10 feet apart along the fence line, next to a sign with their formal class portrait. The eighth graders reciprocated by waving and cheering when they saw their schoolmates and teachers with whom they have been apart these past two months.
Principal Deborah Suddarth said the parade was a huge success and was pleased with the turnout of supporters. “You feel bad for these students to have lost out on some of the best parts of being an eighth grader. This was a gift to them because they truly were a special group of students that made St. Joseph Catholic School a great place. We are going to miss them.
This car is decorated for the May 21, 2020, eighth grade parking lot graduation at St. Martha Catholic School and St. Mary Academy in Sarasota.
A few days earlier, St. Francis Xavier Catholic School in Fort Myers held a drive-thru graduation which began as a tailgate party in the school parking lot on May 20, 2020. Once the official ceremony began, the vehicles worked their way through the parking lot and before exiting onto Heitman Street, across from the main entrance to the school, the vehicles stopped, and each new graduate was presented with their diploma.
Other Diocesan elementary schools did variations of graduations and recognitions. Graduations at St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral, and St. Martha Catholic School and St. Mary Academy in Sarasota, were held in the parking lot, with only students coming forward and receiving their diplomas.
Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School was the first to have a graduation ceremony that was closest to what would have been expected pre-pandemic. The biggest difference in the event inside the Cathedral was that there was no Mass and the ceremony May 22, 2020 was limited to immediate family only.
Cathy Grippi (left) and Morena McCormacki, Catholic Charities volunteers at Our Mother’s House in Venice, assisted in the assembly and packing of face shields May 20, 2020 at the Catholic Center in Venice as part of the Office of Education Camillus Project to donate 3D printer constructed shields to people working on the frontlines of the pandemic response.
Volunteers and staff members gathered at the Diocese of Venice Catholic Center on May 20, 2020 to assemble more than 50 face shields and ear saver kits for those serving on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic. The first wave will go to Diocesan clergy and staff and volunteers at Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice Inc. food distribution sites.
The kits were made possible by dozens of people throughout the Diocese who joined the Camillus Project. Named after St. Camillus de Lellis, the patron saint for doctors, nurses and the sick, this philanthropic campaign uses 3D printing technology to create Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
“As soon as I heard the 3D CAD (Computer Aided Design) community was printing PPE, I knew we had to do our part and help too,” said Jennifer Falestiny, founder and lead designer of the Camillus Project.
Falestiny, who also serves as the Diocesan Curriculum Coordinator, collaborated with the Diocese’s Department of Education and its schools to recruit volunteers with 3D printers to create the components necessary to build the kits.
“We have several individuals and even a school who joined the Camillus Project,” Falestiny said. “Together they have printed hundreds of face shields and ear savers, and they plan to print hundreds more in the coming weeks.”
Each kit contains a face shield, ear saver (a component which allows someone to secure the face shield without having to loop it around their ears), instructions, informational material about the Camillus Project and a thank you card from the Diocese of Venice Catholic Schools Community.
Morena McCormack and Cathy Grippi, Catholic Charities volunteers at Our Mother’s House in Venice, assisted in the assembly of the first waves of face shields. They both were grateful for the opportunity to help provide the much needed PPE.
Jennifer Falestiny, founder and lead designer of the Camillus Project, and Diocesan Curriculum Coordinator, is seen with her children at the Catholic Center in Venice. The project helps build face shields with 3D printers to be donated to people working on the frontlines of the pandemic response.
“It’s more than just finding a bunch of people to fire up their 3D printers,” Falestiny said. “The success of this project also hinges on people testing designs, identifying recipients, assembling kits and delivering these kits to those who need them most… This is a team effort that requires creativity, coordination and a little elbow grease.”
According to Falestiny, the kits will arrive in several waves from May through July. Clergy, staff members and volunteers with Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice Inc., who assist food distribution centers within the Diocese will receive the first wave. The next waves of completed kits will be delivered to doctors, nurses and first responders at Bayfront Health in Port Charlotte and Lee Health Systems in Fort Myers.
“Clergy at the Archdiocese of Chicago and the Diocese of Venice Catholic Schools alumni who are currently serving on the front lines of the coronavirus crisis will receive kits as well,” Falestiny added.
Although the Camillus Project is primarily a product of the COVID-19 pandemic, Falestiny sees its impact resonating throughout the Diocese for years to come. “The Camillus Project demonstrates the power of STREAM (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Art, Mathematics). Our schools have incorporated STREAM into their curriculum for several years. When the world cried for help, we had the faith, knowledge and experience to answer the call.”
The Diocese of Venice Catholic school 2020 graduating class, whether seniors in high school or eighth graders finishing up elementary school, are soon departing their respective schools in a way like no other. Not with a huge celebration and graduation but with fond wishes and prayer through a computer screen.
Donahue Catholic Academy of Ave Maria put is lawn signs recognizing their graduating seniors in early May 2020 in Ave Maria.
To make this end of year special for the 2020 graduates, each Diocesan school made a special effort to reach out to their graduates, delivering lawn signs, cap and gowns and gift baskets, all as a sign to show these students that their time in school made an impact, in particular on the faculty and staff.
this graduating eight grader from St. Mary Catholic Academy in Sarasota makes her choice from the Purple Belle Ice Cream Truck in Sarasota in early May 2020.
St. Mary Academy in Sarasota not only delivered a cap and gown but offered sweet treats from the Purple Belle Ice Cream Truck which was there to sweeten the moment. At the Donahue Catholic Academy of Ave Maria, signs of the graduating seniors lined the street in front of the school. During the delivery to his students, Donahue Catholic Academy Principal Dr. Dan Guernsey played the bagpipes for each.
This proud parents stands with their eighth grade student in front a lawn signs announcing his graduation from St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School in Naples.
The gift baskets to the eighth graders from St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School in Naples included a note from their homeroom teacher, which read in part: “Congratulations on graduating from SES! We are so glad you came to SES. You have helped make this one of the Best 8th grade classes. It has been a pleasure to teach you and I am really going to miss you.”
While the graduates are missing out on some time-honored traditions such as dances, field days, trips, sports and academic awards, as well as graduations, the special, in-person deliveries from teachers and principals helped lessen the disappointment of the students as they transition on to the next phase of their life.
For the graduates of the high schools, contingency plans to offer a proper in-person graduation are in place, but some are two months away and will only take place if the health and safety of all can be guaranteed.
Donahue Catholic Academy of Ave Maria play the bagpipes for this graduating senior in early May 2020.
That is some consolation to make up for the lost months of in-class instruction and building of lasting friendships before moving on with their lives. This experience is being viewed by many as a bonding experience, something that unites the 2020 group for having overcome an actual pandemic to graduate.
In addition to the lawn signs, each school made an effort to post information about their graduates online and through social media. For Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School in Sarasota, Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers, St. John Neumann Catholic High School in Naples and the Donahue Catholic Academy of Ave Maria, the postings have included personal, academic and sports achievements as well as their plans for the future – university, military, first responders, and a few becoming professional athletes.
The photos shared with the high school postings were taken before the outbreak of the pandemic and subsequent suspension of in-classroom instruction. The images show happy young men and women with their entire future before them. Their future is still there and as bright as ever as they leave with a quality Christ-filled education from a Diocese of Venice Catholic high school and each student is prepared and ready to face the next challenge.
The eight graders have also been receiving social media attention. In addition, the schools shared some background, favorite memories and reflections of the students.
So, when the last exam was taken, through distance learning online, instead of a party atmosphere with hugs, slaps on the back and fond farewells; this year it was a quick good-bye and a click of a button as the computer is disconnected, ending years of a quality faith-forming education.
There is little doubt that in the future the 2020 Catholic school graduates will be able to look back fondly upon a most unusual and memorable final year of school.
Deacon Donald Healy, who served at St. Ann Parish in Naples, died April 2, 2020. he was 83.
Deacon Donald Healy, the oldest Permanent Deacon to be ordained for the Diocese of Venice, who served at St. Ann Parish in Naples, died April 2, 2020. He was 83. Deacon Healy was born in Rome, N.Y. and was a highly recruited college athlete in three sports. He ultimate chose football and played as a two-way player (office tackle and defensive guard) for the University of Maryland before he was drafted in the third round (37th overall) by the Chicago Bears in 1958. He was then selected in the 1960 expansion draft by the Dallas Cowboys where he still holds the team record for recovered fumbles in one season (5), the longest standing record in team history. He played his professional final season with the Buffalo Bills before retiring in 1962 due to injuries. He lived for many years in Indianapolis, Indiana, where he and his wife Genevieve (Shea) Healy raised four children. He worked in agricultural chemical sales and then later in the automotive parts industry. The couple moved to Naples in 1995 and Deacon Healy eventually earned an advanced degree in theology, a requirement for his lifelong dream of becoming a Permanent Deacon. When he was 70, he was ordained a Deacon by Bishop John J. Nevins on Oct. 25, 2006 at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice and was assigned to St. Ann Parish. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, four children, and 11 grandchildren. A Memorial Mass will be held later at St. Ann Parish.
Scam Alert
It has once again been brought to the attention of the Diocese of Venice that parishioners have received text/email messages from people pretending to be priests or Bishop Frank J. Dewane and requesting donations in the form of gift cards and/or wire transfers. The messages often greet the person by name and have the priests name in the closing signature of the message; this is a well-crafted and targeted attack on the Church across the country which has hit our Diocese again. These text/email messages are ‘spoofed’ fakes that should not be responded to or taken seriously by anyone. The best defense against this sort of scam is to raise awareness in the community and not respond or open any worrying attachments. It is Diocesan policy that no priest or staff within the Diocese request donations in the form of gift cards, PayPal, MoneyGram, etc.
There is already an established process in place on how parishioners can make donations and participate in the life of the Parish. Whenever a parishioner is worried about any request for money from the parish or a priest, they should immediately call their parish and under no circumstances should they respond to these scam requests.
Neumann golfer earns First Tee! scholarship
St. John Neumann Catholic High School graduating senior Sophie Shrader has been announced as a recipient of a $10,000 a year scholarship from The First Tee! Shrader has participated in The First Tee for eight years and represented the organization in many national opportunities. Shrader will continue her education in the fall at the University of West Florida.
Letters bring smiles to medical professionals
Second graders from St. Martha Catholic School in Sarasota have been distance learning and one of the things they learned about through reading is about communication through letter writing. The students read a story called “Dear Juno” and their assignment was to write letters of appreciation and send goodie baskets to the medical professionals at Sarasota Memorial Hospital. The staff took time to take a picture and send thanks to the students.
Roof work taking place in Avon Park
A much-needed roof replacement project is taking place at Our Lady of Grace Parish in Avon Park. The church roof is being replaced and upgraded to ensure its safety and security for years to come.
Mooney teacher earns Doctorate
Sarah Hard Gates, a Theology instructor at Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School in Sarasota, and 1997 graduate of the school, successfully defended her dissertation and was awarded her PhD in Education from Abilene Christian University. She previously earned degrees from St. Leo University, the University of South Florida, and Barry University. Gates, a beloved teacher who is considered one of the “fun” teachers, has been teaching at Cardinal Mooney for 16 years.
Athletes distance training in Naples
The St. John Neumann Catholic High School Celtic Football Team isn’t letting this time for social distancing ruin their plans to start next season as strong as possible. The boys in Naples have been working hard each morning with their at-home workouts, while connecting with their teammates and coaches via ZOOM!
Rosary maker group keeps busy
The Our Lady of the Angels Parish Rosary Outreach group in Lakewood Ranch has continued to be busy! In the past few weeks more than 400 rosaries have been made. They are given to nursing homes, assisted living residences, hospitals, people in religious education classes, Confirmandi, First Communicants, and for others to hand out. Some 500 rosaries have gone to Africa for children’s rosary groups and 400 will be going to Cuba with The Society for the Propagation of The Faith (once travel resumes). The Rosary is our sword in these difficult times, and the goal of the Rosary Outreach is to spread the beauty of prayer through the rosary.
Students take virtual field trip to museum
The St. Francis Xavier Catholic School fifth grade in Fort Myers recently was provided a special treat, courtesy of The Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota. Students were taken on a virtual field trip led by museum staff where they were able to see the Ringling grounds, some special portraits and paintings and learn about the life of John Ringling.
Community service during quarantine
Leave it to a Diocesan Catholic school student to turn the challenge of a quarantine into a giving opportunity. Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School Freshman Morgan Franklin in Sarasota took it upon herself to still be committed to community service during our stay home policy and cut her hair for Locks of Love, for those suffering from hair loss. She shared before and after photos of herself online, as well of as the hair that will be donated.
Year of Saint Joseph
On the Solemnity of Saint Joseph, March 19, 2020, Bishop Frank J. Dewane consecrated the Diocese of Venice to the care and protection of Saint Joseph in the context of the Coronavirus. The Bishop announced a “Year of Saint Joseph” beginning March 19, 2020 through March 19, 2021. Saint Joseph, often referred to as the Protector, can be our protector during this time of the pandemic. To pray a Novena to Saint Joseph please visit the Year of Saint Joseph webpage at www.dioceseofvenice.org.
Online Preached Retreats
During the current health crisis, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice is offering online 3-day, 5-day, and 8-day retreats based on the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius. In these online retreats, Father Mark Yavarone, OMV, or Father Lino Estradilla, OMV, trained spiritual directors, will meet with you for an hour each day via a link provided to you, to help you to pray and to recognize how God is speaking to you. A Bible and journal should be available for your use. Participants will be emailed any additional materials needed as the retreat unfolds. The cost is as follows: 3-day online retreat, $132.23; 5-day online retreat, $203.98; and 8-day online retreat, $306.48. All information will be confidential, and password protected. If you would like to participate in an online retreat, please email Denise Riley at riley@olph-retreat.org and a code will be provided for your online registration as well as an application. For planning purposes, please allow 7 days from your completed application until the beginning of your retreat.
During weeks of unexpected and unplanned distance learning an even greater appreciation for teachers has developed as parents recognize the hard work and dedication required in forming young minds.
Vehicles drive through the parking lot of St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School adorned with signs and waving students and parents in honor of the teachers who are waving back.
With students now home out of heath and safety concerns due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many parents learned quickly the hard work and dedication it takes to teach children: all day – every day.
This St. Joseph Catholic School teacher shows off a lawn sign and huge cards and basket of goodies presented to her as part of Teacher Appreciation Week in Bradenton on May 6, 2020.
To coincide with National Teacher Appreciation Day (May 5), many Diocesan Catholic schools encouraged their students to take the initiative to honor their teachers. Posters, drawings and videos were posted online while two schools hosted parades to honor their teachers.
On May 7 vehicles full of students wound their way through the parking lot of St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School in Naples where teachers were lined up to greet them. Horns blared as students and parents alike waved and shouted expressions of love, thanks and longing for a return to the classroom.
Vehicles drive through the parking lot of St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School adorned with signs and waving students and parents in honor of the teachers who are waving back.
Organized by the Seton Home and School Association, a variety of signs adorned the vehicles: “We love our teachers!” “I love Seton!” “We appreciate you!” “The best teachers are at Seton!” “Thank You!” “We are so blessed to have teachers like you!” “Thank you for your hard work and love!”
One sign summed up the feelings of many: “Thanks 6th grade teachers. It is not so much what is poured into a student, but what is planted by the TEACHER that really counts!”
A similar parade was held May 6 in downtown Venice to honor the teachers at Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School. Signs on vehicles expressed the same sentiments as in Naples such as “We miss our Epiphany teachers and staff.”
The teachers honored during both parades rejoiced, some with tears of joy, in being able to see their students in person versus through an internet video-classroom.
St Joseph Catholic School administration showed their appreciation for their teachers by delivering gift baskets and lawn signs. Students in the school Builder’s Club prepared a special “Coffee Cart” bag, wanting to keep their annual tradition of bringing a coffee cart to each classroom during Teacher Appreciation Week.
Correspondingly, teachers across the Diocese miss their students as well and have been creating signs and video messages to share on school websites and social media accounts.
At St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral the teachers compiled a video to their students. Danielle Pendleton, a mathematics teacher, used a math formula with the final answer (I <3 u) which translates to “I love you.” Spanish Teacher Laura Baker showed off a colorful poster noting she is missing all of her “amigos” big and small, while Literature and Religion Teacher Julie Dudek shared a limerick and encouraged her students to share one in return.
These are just a few examples of how the teachers and their students are staying connected while missing each other because of continued distance learning.
Deacon Franckel Fils Aime graduated from St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary in Boynton Beach on May 7, 2020, while Seminarian Jacob Gywnn graduated May 5, 2020, from St. John Vianney College Seminary in Miami. Deacon Fils Aime will soon be ordained to the priesthood for the Diocese of Venice while Gwynn will be given a pastoral assignment at a Parish within the Diocese for the summer. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, both graduations were low-key events with minimal participation and no family present.
May Crownings
St. Mary Star of the Sea Parish hosted a May Crowning on May 10, 2020, Mother’s Day, on Longboat Key. Social distancing protocals were in place as some sitting in their vehicles, others of chairs.
In a time of social distancing the traditional May Crownings have taken on a different form this year. St. Joseph Catholic School students Wesley and Cecilia were able to honor Mary on May 2, 2020, for an unofficial May Crowning at the St. Bernard Catholic Church grotto in Holmes Beach. On May 10, 2020, Father Robert Dziedziak, Pastor of St. Mary, Star of the Sea Parish on Longboat Key, led a May Crowning prayer service in the Parish prayer garden with the faithful able to be present while still maintaining appropriate social distancing.
These two St. Joseph Catholic School students from Brandenton pray during a May Crowning at St. Bernard Parish in Holmes Beach in early May.
Retreat Center offering online Preached Retreats
During the current health crisis, many people who would like to make a retreat must remain at home for an extended period of time. As long as the crisis lasts, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice will offer online 3-day, 5-day, and 8-day retreats based on the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius. Like Father Lanteri, we can all use this time for our spiritual growth.
In these online retreats. Father Mark Yavarone, OMV, or Father Lino Estradilla, OMV, trained spiritual directors, will meet with you for an hour each day via a link provided to you, to help you to pray and to recognize how God is speaking. You should already have a Bible and journal available for your use. Participants will be emailed any additional materials needed as the retreat unfolds.
The cost, which has been significantly discounter, will be as follows: 3-day online retreat, $132.23; 5-day online retreat, $203.98; and 8-day online retreat, $306.48.
All information will be confidential, and password protected. If you would like to make an online retreat, please email Denise Riley at Riley@OLPH-RETREAT.organd a code will be provided for your online registration. You will need to fill out an application for approval. Please allow 7 days to arrange from your completed application until the beginning of your retreat.
Scam Alert targeting parishioners
It has once again been brought to the attention of the Diocese of Venice that parishioners have received text/email messages from people pretending to be priests and requesting donations in the form of gift cards and/or wire transfers. The messages often greet the person by name and have the priests name in the closing signature of the message; this is a well-crafted and targeted attack on the Church across the country which has hit our Diocese again. These text/email messages are ‘spoofed’ fakes that should not be responded to or taken seriously by anyone. The best defense against this sort of scam is to raise awareness in the community and not respond or open any worrying attachments. It is Diocesan policy that no priest or staff within the Diocese request donations in the form of gift cards, PayPal, MoneyGram, etc.
There is already an established process in place on how parishioners can make donations and participate in the life of the Parish. Whenever a parishioner is worried about any request for money from the parish or a priest, they should immediately call their parish and under no circumstances should they respond to these scam requests.
Year of St. Joseph resources online
On the Solemnity of St. Joseph, March 19, Bishop Frank J. Dewane consecrated the Diocese of Venice to the care and protection of Saint Joseph in the context of the Coronavirus and announced a “Year of St. Joseph” beginning March 19, 2020 through March 19, 2021. St. Joseph is the Patron Saint of the Universal Church, fathers, workers and the sick and dying. A number of resources, including a Novena to St. Joseph, have been made available on the Diocesan website – www.dioceseofvenice.org.
Bradenton Food Pantry
The St. Joseph Parish Food Pantry, 2704 33rd Ave. W., Bradenton, is open and distributing food from 9 a.m. to noon Monday-Friday, 5-7 p.m. Wednesdays, following all social distancing protocols. Cars will be directed through the parking lot and trunks will be loaded by volunteers in protective gloves and masks. Call 941-756-3732 if you have any questions. You do not need to be a regular client to receive food. To make a donation of money or food, please visit https://www.stjoepantry.com/.
Venice Catholic School Community project
Jennifer Falestiny, Curriculum Coordinator at the Diocese of the Venice, created the Camillus Project, a STREAM (science, technology, religion, engineering, arts and mathematics) oriented campaign to print and deliver face shields and ear savers to those serving on the front lines of the coronavirus crisis. Named after the patron saint of hospitals, nurses and the sick, the design files were shared to each school with 3D printer in hopes of being to deliver these shields to local medical professionals.
Bishop Frank J. Dewane announces the appointment of Jesuit Father John Belmonte, as Superintendent of Catholic Education for the Diocese of Venice in Florida, effective July 1, 2020.
“I am very pleased that Father Belmonte will be joining the Diocese of Venice in this important leadership role,” Bishop Dewane said. “His extensive experience, skills and passion for Catholic Education will support the Diocese in its mission to continue providing the highest educational standards, while maintaining focus on Catholic instruction and identity.”
As Superintendent, Father Belmonte will be responsible for the Department of Education in the Diocese of Venice in Florida which consists of 15 schools; 4,777 students; the Office of Religious Education which supports the 61 parishes and 13,573 children and adults; as well as The Institute for Catholic Studies and Formation.
Father Belmonte received his B.A. in History from Marquette University in 1985 and after graduation entered the Society of Jesus in St. Paul, Minnesota, and pronounced vows in 1987. Father continued studies in philosophy and humanities at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. In preparation for ordination to the priesthood, he completed theological studies at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome, Italy with a Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology in 1995.
Ordained to the priesthood on June 14, 1996 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. In 1997, Father Belmonte completed a Licentiate of Sacred Theology at Weston Jesuit School of Theology in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Father Belmonte enrolled in 1999 to an Educational Leadership and Policy Studies Doctoral Program at Loyola University in Chicago, which he completed in 2006.
Father Belmonte held several positions at Marquette University High School in Milwaukee, and St. Ignatius Preparatory High School in Chicago, Illinois, before joining the Diocese of Joliet, Illinois in 2010, where he served as School Superintendent.
The Diocese of Venice in Florida offers a superb education infused with Catholic values, teachings and traditions that are centered on Christ, rooted in the Gospel and alive with the Faith. This formation takes place in 10 elementary schools, four high schools, one special education grade school, and the Institute for Catholic Studies and Formation.
The Institute facilitates the need for both post-secondary professional development, as well as comprehensive, lifelong and systematic formation for adults. The Office of Religious Education, which supports the 61 parishes in the Diocese through catechetical leadership and guidance in the faith formation of Adults, Youth and Children, also falls under the supervision of the Superintendent of the Department of Education.
At this time, the Diocese wishes to gratefully acknowledge Ben Hopper, who serves as Interim Superintendent of Catholic Education while maintaining his role as Principal of Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School in Sarasota. Hopper has done an outstanding job of supporting Catholic Schools within the Diocese of Venice, providing leadership and guidance, as well as helping the schools successfully navigate the transition to virtual learning during the COVID-19 Pandemic. The Diocese is thankful for his valued contributions and looks forward to fully supporting him as he continues in his position at Cardinal Mooney.
Please join in welcoming Father Belmonte to the Diocese of Venice in Florida.
The students who attend Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School in Sarasota are formed with core Christian values. The students also learn that they are “called by name” by the Lord to be more – more a man or woman of God.
Responding to this call, some alumni of Cardinal Mooney choose to enter careers as first responders or in medicine. In a time when the world needs people to look up to, those working as doctors, nurses, paramedics, firefighters, law enforcement, as well as in various support services are stepping up to put themselves out there, to make everyone safe.
Many of these people on the front lines are graduates of Cardinal Mooney and the other Catholic high schools in the Diocese (Bishop Verot in Fort Myers and St. John Neumann in Naples).
This fact inspired Tara McClean, Cardinal Mooney Director of Development, to expand a segment of the Mooney social media presence (www.facebook.com/mooneyalumni) called “Alumni Shoutout!!” to focus in April on alumni first responders.
Initially the shout-out posts were ‘spotlights’ showcasing one to two alumni a month; then the COVID-19 pandemic started and that changed everything.
Jennifer Rode Foscolos, Cardinal Mooney CAtholic High School class of 2007, is a Registered Nurse with Sarasota Memorial Hospital.
“One of my classmates is a current parent and a triage nurse here in Sarasota,” she said. “On March 30 I was texting with her and kept thinking that I wished there was a way to thank her, to let her know how worried yet proud I was of her. And then I thought what if we showcase only the medical alumni for April? What if that is the best and safest way to thank them for now?”
On March 31, 2020, McClean posted a thank you to the medical community and asked the alumni to leave them words of encouragement in the comments or for the alumni medical professionals to share photos of their “offices.”
“That is where this really took off! I almost instantly had the photos of the really intense, plexi-facemasks and ambulances. And from there it grew,” McClean said.
The first post recognized “rock star” Jennifer Rode Foscolos, Cougar class of 2007, a Registered Nurse with Sarasota Memorial Hospital. She works on a unit caring for non-COVID and COVID-positive patients. The post states: “Stay safe & well Jenn! Paws up!! Your Cougar pack salutes you!!”
Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School class of 1997, Maggie Wessels Castro, BSN, RN, is a Clinical Manager for the Sarasota Memorial Healthcare System, and oversees the Respiratory Progressive Care Unit.
Another post noted the work of Cougar class of 1997, Maggie Wessels Castro, BSN, RN, who is a Clinical Manager for the Sarasota Memorial Healthcare System and oversees the Respiratory Progressive Care Unit.
McClean posted: “As you can imagine respiratory care is front and center during the COVID-19 pandemic. Maggie has been working tirelessly to care for her patients and lead the specialized nursing team in charge of this unit, while also being a superhero wife, mom, daughter, and sister to her immediate and extended family… She is truly a superhero in scrubs and should be celebrated. Thank you, Maggie! Paws up!”
Kathleen Ross Hayden, Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School class of 1983 is currently serving with Samaritan’s Purse Disaster Assistance Response team in one of the hardest hit areas in Italy.
Other alumni recognized included doctors and nurses working in New York City hospitals, as well as many working locally. Others highlighted were firefighters, paramedics and members of law enforcement.
Dr. Cristopher Cowart, Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School alumni, anesthesiologist for Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City.
Through their own social media accounts, both Bishop Verot and St. John Neumann Catholic high schools recognized many of their own alumni working on the front lines of the pandemic.
Diocesan Interim Superintendent of Catholic Education and Cardinal Mooney Principal, Ben Hopper, joined in praising not just the Mooney alumni but all Catholic high school alumni by posting a video message of thanks on the Diocesan coronavirus response website and the DOV Catholic Schools Facebook page.
“To the men and women who are on the front lines of this pandemic, we thank you for your service and sacrifice” Hopper said. “The doctors, nurses, researchers, first responders, administrators, manufacturers and others in the field have put the health and wellbeing of others above their own. Our thoughts, hopes and prayers are with you during these trying times as you perform miracles much like what Jesus did to heal the injured and cure the sick.”
Hopper added thanks to the alumni who have worked tirelessly treating patients, researching vaccines and delivering life-saving equipment, “We thank you. We will never forget the good you bring during these grim days, and we hope you will remember that the Diocese of Venice is with you every step of the way.”
Parishes and Catholic schools throughout the Diocese of Venice have been reaching out to recognize first responders, medical staff, sanitation workers and all who are tirelessly working on the front lines in the fights against the coronavirus outbreak.
Below are just a few of the recent examples of what is being done.
Our Loving Stitches
Our Lady of the Angels Parish in Lakewood Ranch is well known for giving back to the community. In the midst of stay-at-home orders, quarantines and the scarcity of masks, the Parish Our Loving Stitches outreach decided to do something about it. The group recently announced that they have made more than 700 masks which have been distributed to All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg as well as to other hospitals, assisted living facilities, as well as to vulnerable parishioners and friends.
School initiative
St. Martha Catholic School teachers from kindergarten, first and third grades recently presented student-created cards, St. Martha Tervis Tumblers, donuts, and coffee for the nurses at Sarasota Memorial Hospital who are all working with COVID-19 patients. The nurses responded with a tearful thanks for the cards and extra prayers.
St. Martha Catholic School in Sarasota has converted its first-class education to distance learning, but the teachers and students have not forgotten the need to give back to the community.
While teaching their students from afar, the teachers have encouraged their changes with making “Thank You!” cards for area nurses and doctors. Recently, teachers from kindergarten, first and third grades presented the student-created cards, St. Martha Tervis Tumblers, donuts, and coffee for the nurses at Sarasota Memorial Hospital who are all working with COVID-19 patients. The nurses responded with a tearful thanks for the cards and extra prayers.
This St. Martha Catholic School second grader shows off a gift package her created for the health care workers at a local nursing home in Sarasota.
In addition, a second grader created a gift basket for his mom to deliver to a local nursing home and a fourth grader created a care package for the sanitation workers.
Wall display
Max Weinberg, a parishioner St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers, of Empire Entertainment, recently created a video mapping wall display to honor healthcare workers at Gulf Coast Hospital in Fort Myers to help uplift spirits.
Max Weinberg, a parishioner St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers, of Empire Entertainment, recently created a video mapping wall display to honor healthcare workers at Gulf Coast Hospital in Fort Myers and to help uplift spirits.
Weinberg’s display and was projected onto the side of the hospital during shift change and included the insignia for the hospital as well as the patches and badges for area first responders and said “Heroes Work Here.” Weinberg also created a special video tribute for the hospital. Additional displays have also been made at other facilities.
These are just a few of the efforts being made to honor local heroes.
If you know of anyone or any Parish or school which is honoring local heroes, please email the information to Bob Reddy at reddy@dioceseofvenice.org.
The leadership of St. John Neumann Catholic High School in Naples spent two days on “Operations: Celebrate Our Seniors” delivering cheer from the school van to the homes of graduating seniors. Each student received their cap and gown, yard sign, a t-shirt and personalized cookie. If the seniors can’t come to school, the goal was to bring the school to them. Each senior was asked to sign a graduation poster as they received words of encouragement from the Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco who run the school.
Online Bible Study LIVE beginning May 12
A Bible Study will be offered online through the Diocese of Venice Facebook Live on Tuesdays May 12 through July 28 using the program “Genesis to Jesus” from the St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology. Each session will begin at 2:00 p.m. Join by going to https://www.facebook.com/DioceseofVenice/ and simply watch the live-stream video on the page. You will also be able to type in your questions and comments in real-time to participate from your own home (you do not need to have a Facebook account to watch the video but you do need to have an account to comment and ask questions)! With so much great Catholic content out there now, here is something you can participate in yourself!
Scam Alert targeting parishioners
It has once again been brought to the attention of the Diocese of Venice that parishioners have received text/email messages from people pretending to be priests and requesting donations in the form of gift cards and/or wire transfers. The messages often greet the person by name and have the priests name in the closing signature of the message; this is a well-crafted and targeted attack on the Church across the country which has hit our Diocese again. These text/email messages are ‘spoofed’ fakes that should not be responded to or taken seriously by anyone. The best defense against this sort of scam is to raise awareness in the community and not respond or open any worrying attachments. It is Diocesan policy that no priest or staff within the Diocese request donations in the form of gift cards, PayPal, MoneyGram, etc
There is already an established process in place on how parishioners can make donations and participate in the life of the Parish. Whenever a parishioner is worried about any request for money from the parish or a priest, they should immediately call their parish and under no circumstances should they respond to these scam requests.
Year of St. Joseph resources online
On the Solemnity of St. Joseph, March 19, Bishop Frank J. Dewane consecrated the Diocese of Venice to the care and protection of Saint Joseph in the context of the Coronavirus and announced a “Year of St. Joseph” beginning March 19, 2020 through March 19, 2021. St. Joseph is the Patron Saint of the Universal Church, fathers, workers and the sick and dying. A number of resources, including a Novena to St. Joseph, have been made available on the Diocesan website – www.dioceseofvenice.org.
Bradenton Food Pantry
The St. Joseph Parish Food Pantry, 2704 33rd Ave. W., Bradenton, is open and distributing food from 9 a.m. to noon Monday-Friday, 5-7 p.m. Wednesdays, following all social distancing protocols. Cars will be directed through the parking lot and trunks will be loaded by volunteers in protective gloves and masks. Call 941-756-3732 if you have any questions. You do not need to be a regular client to receive food. To make a donation of money or food, please visit https://www.stjoepantry.com/.
Music lessons continue
St. Francis Xavier Catholic School first grade student learns to play an instrument with the virtual assistance of Music Teacher Jeffery Jodice using ‘Google Meet’ in Fort Myers.
Principal Deborah Suddarth said the parade was a huge success and was pleased with the turnout of supporters. “You feel bad for these students to have lost out on some of the best parts of being an eighth grader. This was a gift to them because they truly were a special group of students that made St. Joseph Catholic School a great place. We are going to miss them.
The teachers honored during both parades rejoiced, some with tears of joy, in being able to see their students in person versus through an internet video-classroom.
As Superintendent, Father Belmonte will be responsible for the Department of Education in the Diocese of Venice in Florida which consists of 15 schools; 4,777 students; the Office of Religious Education which supports the 61 parishes and 13,573 children and adults; as well as The Institute for Catholic Studies and Formation.
A Bible Study will be offered online through the Diocese of Venice Facebook Live on Tuesdays May 12 through July 28 using the program “Genesis to Jesus” from the St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology. Each session will begin at 2:00 p.m. Join by going to 
