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News Briefs for the week of October 4, 2024

Posted on October 4, 2024October 4, 2024 by Bob Reddy

Legion of Mary annual retreat held in Venice

The Legion of Mary Manasota Curis held a day of prayer Sept. 28, 2024, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice. The day included the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, Sacrament of Reconciliation and talks. Bob Wilson, Director of St. Paul Street Evangelization, spoke about how to speak with family and friends who have questions about the faith. Wilson said those who disagree with Church Teachings on any topic, disagree with God. “Jesus and the Catholic Church are one entity. Jesus is the head and Church is the body.” Wilson also discussed common questions Catholics face regarding our beliefs, such as praying to saints and the Blessed Virgin Mary. “We do not worship Mary and the saints, we honor them. When we are praying to Mary, we are asking her to intercede on our behalf. Asking her Son to pray for us.”

Feast of Archangels celebrated in Wauchula

St. Michael Parish in Wauchula celebrated the Feast of the Archangels as part of a larger celebration on Sept. 28, 2024, the eve of the Feast Day. The celebration included a process around the Parish grounds leading into a bilingual Mass (English and Spanish). This was followed by a Parish festival. The three archangels whom the Church honors by name are Saint Michael, Saint Gabriel, and Saint Raphael. St. Michael was the archangel who fought against Satan and all his evil angels, defending all the friends of God. He is the protector of all humanity from the snares of the devil. Within the Diocese of Venice, there is also a St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Sarasota. St. Gabriel announced to Zachariah the forthcoming birth of John the Baptist, and to Mary, the birth of Jesus. His greeting to the Virgin, “Hail, full of grace,” is one of the most familiar and frequent prayers of the Christian people. St. Raphael is the archangel who took care of Tobias on his journey. There are two Parishes in the Diocese which have been bestowed with that name, one in Lehigh Acres and the other in Englewood.

Florida Bishops offer new election resources

The Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops has produced two new voter resources for the faithful to consider during the November 2024 General Election. First, is the Florida Conference Voter Guide which provides information about Catholic teaching, offers considerations on key topics, and poses questions regarding current issues to assist voters in evaluating candidate positions or political party platforms: FCCB Voter Guide (English) | (Spanish). Second, a comparison of the positions of candidates for U.S. Presidency, Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, on multiple topics has been compiled directly from policies, public statements, official or campaign websites, and other sources. Hyperlinks are provided to sources for each position: 2024 Presidential Candidate Comparison (English) | (Spanish).

Fall 40 Days for Life continues in Sarasota, Fort Myers, Naples

Join others in praying for an end to abortion during the fall campaign of 40 Days for Life with prayer vigils each day Sept.25 to Nov. 3, 2024, in Fort Myers, Naples and Sarasota. This peaceful prayer movement needs everyone to join in praying for the unborn and families on the public sidewalk outside of Planned Parenthood. The need for support is more important than ever as there are efforts to push to dispense the abortion pill and to pass more extreme abortion measures onto the people of Florida. The prayer vigil in Fort Myers is from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Mon. – Sat.), at 6418 Commerce Park Drive. For more information, contact Maureen at 40daysforlifefmsp@gmail.com, or visit 40daysforlife.com/fortmyers. The Naples prayer vigil is from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Mon. – Sat.), at 1425 Creech Road. For details, contact Ricki at 40DFLnaples@gmail.com, or visit 40daysforlife.com/naples. In Sarasota, the vigil is daily, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., 736 Central Ave. For more details, contact Rich at 40DFLSarasota@proton.me, or visit 40daysforlife.com/sarasota.

Pro-Life program in Naples Oct. 11

St. William Parish, 601 Seagate Drive, Naples, is hosting a pro-life program on Oct. 11, 2024, at 1 p.m. in the Parish Hall. The program, titled: “Wisdom in the Constitution and America’s Religious Legacy: Life, Liberty, and Pursuit of Happiness – how can we uphold it?” is presented by Dr. Seana McGuire Sugrue, D.C.L., Ambassador Michael Novak Chair of Politics at Ave Maria University, where she has previously served as Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty. The program will address relevant topics being debated in the 2024 General Election here in Florida and nationwide. The event is free and light refreshments will be served. For more information, please contact St. William Parish at 239-261-4883.

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.

Undy Sunday Collier County coming soon

The annual Undy Sunday Campaign will take place in Collier County the weekends of October 19 and 20, and October 26 and 27, 2024. This collection of new and unused underwear and socks helps thousands of underserved Elementary School students receive underwear and socks. There are three ways to assist with this campaign. Please see the flyer below for these options and additional information or contact Allegra Belliard at 239-793-0059.

Veterans Day Ball on Nov. 8

The annual Ave Maria Veterans Day Ball – A Celebration for All, will take place at 6 p.m., Nov. 8, 2024, at the Del Webb Grand Hall in Ave Maria. The evening includes a cocktail hour, keynote address by Vice Admiral Charles W. Moore Jr., U.S. Navy Ret., dinner and dancing. Tickets are $125 per person and are available at www.avemariakofc.org/veterans-day-ball.

Catholic Mass on Veterans Day

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 3:00 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.

2024 Diocesan Youth Rally Nov. 16

All students, grades 9 to 12, are invited to attend this year’s Diocesan Youth Rally from 12:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Saturday, 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. Registration is through the Parish. Please contact Andres Prias, Youth and Young Adult Outreach Director, Diocese of Venice Department of Evangelization prias@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-484-9543 for further information.

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 will 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 Dutch 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.

News Briefs for the week of Sept. 27, 2024

Posted on September 27, 2024 by Bob Reddy

Bishop attends Catholic Charities USA meeting

As the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Episcopal Moderator to the Catholic Charities USA Board, Bishop Frank J. Dewane plays a pivotal role in supporting the mission of Catholic Charities across the country. During an annual gathering in Oklahoma City the week of Sept. 17-19, 2024, Bishop Dewane joined professionals, volunteers, and partners for workshops, learning labs, retreats, and more. This year’s theme, “Our Call to Mission,” focused on empowering Catholic Charities staff to continue their critical work of serving vulnerable communities. Among those attending the gathering was Christopher Root, CEO of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc. During the event, the Diocese of Venice was recognized for having the top Lenten Rice Bowl collection in Florida. The meeting was also the kick-off for promoting the 50th Anniversary of CCUSA.

Diocesan Rosary Congress Oct. 5-11

The Annual Diocese of Venice Rosary Congress will take place at numerous Parishes throughout the Diocese between Saturday, October 5, and Friday, October 11, in response to Our Lady of Fatima’s call to prayer and conversion. The theme this year is, “Do Whatever He Tells You” (John 2:5), Mary’s last utterance in Scripture, in which she speaks to the servants at the Wedding Feast at Cana. Each host Parish will offer the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass prior to the praying of the Rosary. Many Parishes will include the Exposition and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament with five decades of the Rosary being prayed aloud by the faithful. The length of time will vary and could last up to 24 hours. The primary public intention for the Rosary Congress this year will be for the Defeat of Amendment 4. For a list of host Parishes, and the times of the Rosary Congress https://dioceseofvenice.org/offices/offices-departments/evangelization/rosary-congress-2024/. This website will be updated frequently as Parishes share their participation details. All the faithful are welcome to participate at any location at any time. For more information, please contact Jim Gontis at 941-484-4754 or gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

A Walk With Jesus For Grieving Parents weekend Oct. 11-13

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 Friday, Oct. 11 until 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 per person based on double occupancy and $250 for single occupancy. Financial assistance is available. To register, please visit dioceseofvenice.regfox. For further information contact Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-484-4754.

Undy Sunday Collier County coming soon

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. The day-long event includes a Mass and Marriage Blessing celebrated by Bishop Dewane, and inspirational talks by Catholic speakers Renzo and Monica Ortega, Father 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. Learn more about the Conference by listening to the Sept. 27, 2024, radio program on Relevant Radio “Witnessing Faith with Bishop Dewane.” This month, Bishop Dewane speaks about the importance of the Conference and includes guest Mallory Smyth. You can listen to the broadcast by visiting https://dioceseofvenice.org/our-bishop/relevant-radio-podcasts/.

Oktoberfest coming to North Port Oct. 18-19

San Pedro Parish, 14380 Tamiami Trail, North Port, is hosting a weekend Oktoberfest from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m., Oct. 18, 2024, and Oct. 19 from 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. All are invited to enjoy live music, great food and company, games for the kids and all the family! The proceeds will support the Reason for Our Hope Campaign. These donations will help complete the Parish Restoration Fund, upgrades to the activities center kitchen, two new AC Units, security upgrades and the creation of an Adoration Chapel. Please visit https://sanpedrocc.org/octoberfest-2024/ for further information or questions or call the Parish Office at 941-426-2500.

Red Mass Oct. 22 in Sarasota

Catholic Mass on Veterans Day

2024 Diocesan Youth Rally Nov. 16

All students, grades 9 to 12, are invited to attend this year’s Diocesan Youth Rally from 12:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Saturday, 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. Registration is through the parish and please encourage the youth in your Parish to register soon. Please contact Andres Prias, Youth and Young Adult Outreach Director, Diocese of Venice Department of Evangelization prias@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-484-9543 for further information.

Two evangelization training opportunities being offered

Posted on September 20, 2024 by Bob Reddy

To learn what authentic, non-confrontational, joyful evangelization looks and sounds like, be sure to attend one of two upcoming workshops sponsored by the Diocese of Venice Office of Evangelization and presented by Saint Paul Street Evangelization (SPSE).

The first workshop is 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sept. 28, 2024, at Church of the Resurrection Parish, 8121 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers, and is a deep dive into how to carry the Good News of the Lord into the public square. The second workshop is 12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m., Sept. 29, at Our Lady of the Angels Parish, 12905 E. State Road 70, Lakewood Ranch, and will focus on incorporating apologetics in a non-confrontational way. Space is still available for both workshops.

Adam Janke, vice president of SPSE, will lead the workshops. 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. This is a return to the Diocese by SPSE which previously hosted training sessions in both Sarasota and Naples.

Janke said the goal of SPSE is to learn about how to share one’s faith in everyday life, with family, friends, fallen away Catholics, people you meet in the grocery store or anywhere.

The premise of SPSE is a relational ministry, where small groups, or pairs, of people go out and offer rosaries or Miraculous Medals to strangers. That simple offering then opens the door for a personal interaction.

The Fort Myers workshop covers Basic Evangelization Training. This will help the faithful to gain the courage needed to become enthusiastic and joyful evangelists and discern what role prayer might take in their work of evangelization.

The Lakewood Ranch workshop will focus on Apologetics in Evangelization Training, helping participants learn how to approach answering questions about the Catholic Faith, as more of a “Road to Emmaus” moment and less of a boxing match. The goal is to allow participants the opportunity to learn how to be better at sharing the Faith, overcoming objections to Jesus and the Church.

Registration for each workshop is $25 and includes lunch and training materials.

Register for the Sept. 28 workshop in Fort Myers at https://evangelizationschool.com/store/product/basic-evangelization-training-venice-fl/. For the Sept. 29 workshop in Lakewood Ranch, visit https://evangelizationschool.com/store/product/apologetics-in-evangelization-training-lakewood/.

If you have any questions, please contact Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

News Briefs for the week of September 20, 2024

Posted on September 20, 2024September 20, 2024 by Bob Reddy

Fall 40 Days for Life begins Sept. 25 in Sarasota, Fort Myers, Naples

The prayer vigil in Fort Myers is from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Mon. – Sat.), at 6418 Commerce Park Drive. For more information, contact Maureen at 40daysforlifefmsp@gmail.com, or visit 40daysforlife.com/fortmyers. The Naples prayer vigil is from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Mon. – Sat.), at 1425 Creech Road. For details, contact Ricki at 40DFLnaples@gmail.com, or visit 40daysforlife.com/naples. In Sarasota, the vigil is daily, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., 736 Central Ave. For more details, contact Rich at 40DFLSarasota@proton.me, or visit 40daysforlife.com/sarasota.

Sarasota high school earns special distinction

Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School in Sarasota has earned the certification as an Apple Distinguished school. Apple Distinguished Schools are centers of leadership and educational excellence that demonstrate Apple’s vision for learning with technology — and are recognized as some of the most innovative schools in the world.

Youth enjoy special retreat

St. John Paul II Young Adult Ministry of St. Peter the Apostle Parish in Naples welcomed more than 100 youth from Collier County for a daylong retreat on Sept. 14, 2024. The focus of the day was on the Eucharist and vocations. The retreat helped to create a truly special and transformative experience for the youth.

Classroom talk focus on invasive species

Second graders at St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School in Naples were treated to a fascinating presentation on Sept. 10, 2024, by Faith Kruis, of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Kruis shared her expertise on one of Florida’s most notorious invasive species—the Burmese python. The students learned all about where these reptiles are found, how they’re caught, how to identify them, and many other interesting facts.

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.

5K Walk/Run for Life in Naples Oct. 5

This annual event will take place Oct. 5, 2024, at St. Agnes Parish, 7775 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. Registration on the day of the event opens at 6:00 a.m. with the race beginning at 7:15 a.m. This event is meant to promote a respect for life message and raise funds for pro-life causes while encouraging healthy living. The entry fee is $25 for adults and $10 for children under 12 if registered by October 4. For a T-shirt please register by Sept. 29. Fees for all entries on the day of the race/walk is $30. Please visit https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Naples/StAgnes5KWalkRunforLife.

Pro-Life program in Naples Oct. 11

St. William Parish, 601 Seagate Drive, Naples, is hosting a pro-life program on Oct. 11, 2204, at 1 p.m. in the Parish Hall. The program, titled: “Wisdom in the Constitution and America’s Religious Legacy: Life, Liberty, and Pursuit of Happiness – how can we uphold it?” is presented by Dr. Seana McGuire Sugrue, D.C.L. Sugrue is the Ambassador Michael Novak Chair of Politics at Ave Maria University, where she has previously served as Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty. The program will address relevant topics being debated in the 2024 General Election here in Florida and nationwide. The event is free and light refreshments will be served. For more information, please contact St. William Parish at 239-261-4883.

Together in Holiness Marriage Conference Oct. 19

Red Mass Oct. 22 in Sarasota

That Man is You program now at 17 Parishes

Posted on September 13, 2024 by Bob Reddy

Venice – That Man Is You (TMIY), a program which addresses the pressure and temptations that men face in our modern culture, especially those relating to their roles as husbands and fathers, will be offered throughout the Diocese of Venice beginning this month at 17 different Parishes.

The men’s program serves to bring men together as a “band of brothers in Christ” in encouragement and support of one another to fulfill their crucial roles in the family, the Church, and society.

Jim Gontis, Diocese of Venice Director of Evangelization credited the growth of the TMIY program in the Diocese to the encouragement and leadership of Bishop Frank J. Dewane. This support, combined with the enthusiasm of Diocesan Priests, and Deacons, as well as the many at the Parishes, how made the initiative thrive.

“Men everywhere, and the culture itself, is thirsting for men to become the best husbands, father, sons, brothers, and friends they can be,” Gontis said. “They want to grow in fellowship with their brothers in Christ. Finally, they are thirsting to grow in the knowledge and love of Jesus Christ and His Catholic Church. That Man is You is helping to do just that.”

The program began in the Diocese several years ago at Ave Maria Parish in Ave Maria and then quickly expanded afterward to St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Parish in Parrish and St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Grove City. The 2023-2024 season included 12 Parishes.

The weekly gatherings will run for 26 sessions through April 2025. The program is free, with no registration. In addition, there is no requirement to attend each week, and men can drop in at any time during the length of the program. Also, participants do not need to be a registered member of the host Parish to attend.

TMIY program has Core Teams at each host Parish who will serve as the guide through the weekly gatherings. A session is about 90 minutes, broken into three, 30-minute segments: breakfast and fellowship; featured video; and small group discussions.

TMIY harmonizes current social and medical science with the teachings of the Church and the wisdom of the saints to develop the vision of man fully alive. Since its inception, approximately100,000 men nationally have been involved in TMIY.

For more information, please contact Jim Gontis, Director of Evangelization, 941-486-4754, gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

Parish listings – meeting day, time, (start day), Core Team Leader contact

Ave Maria Parish, 5088 Ave Maria Blvd., Ave Maria

Saturdays, 7 a.m.-830 a.m., (Sept. 21, 2024), Dominic Micillo, 904-536-1480, dmicillo@aol.com.

Epiphany Cathedral, 350 Tampa Ave. W., Venice

Saturdays, 6:45 a.m. – 8:15 a.m., (Sept. 14), Deacon Scott Little, 814-241-5590, little@epiphanycathedral.org.

Incarnation Parish, 2901 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota

Saturdays, 6:30 a.m. – 8 a.m., (Sept. 14), Steve Jendrysik, 215-205-8655.

Our Lady of the Angels Parish, 12905 E. State Road 70, Lakewood Ranch

Saturdays, 6:20 a.m. – 7:50 a.m., (Sept. 14), Mike Gonzales, 913-424-8255, gonzalesmichaelpaul@gmail.com.

San Marco Parish, 851 San Marco Road, Marco Island

Wednesdays, 9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m., (Sept. 4), Tom Gunkel, 239-394–5181.

San Pedro Parish, 14380 Tamiami Trail, North Port

Saturdays, 7 a.m. – 8:15 a.m., (Sept. 7), Jack Todaro, 860-559-1596, jacktod24@gmail.com.

St. Agnes Parish, 7775 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples

Saturdays, 6:45 a.m.–8 a.m., (Sept. 14), Isaac Mejias, 732-986-8572, iosc7@yahoo.com.

St. Charles Borromeo Parish, 21505 Augusta Ave., Port Charlotte

Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m., (Sept. 25), Michael Barrett, 941-625-4754, michaelb@stcbc.org.

St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Parish, 12001 69^th St., Parrish

Saturdays, 6:30 a.m. – 8 a.m., (Sept. 14), John Kreger, 941-993-9988, kregerjd@aol.com.

St. Francis of Assisi Parish, 5265 Placida Road, Grove City

Thursdays, 7 a.m. – 8:10 a.m., (Sept. 19), John Coyne, 724-316-5263, coyne.johnp@yahoo.com.

St. John the Evangelist Parish, 625 111^th Ave. N., Naples

Saturdays, 7 a.m. – 8:30 a.m., (Sept. 14), Brandon Karas, brandonkaras1993@gmail.com.

St. Joseph Parish, 3100 26^th St. W., Bradenton

Saturdays, 7 a.m. – 8:15 a.m., (Sept. 21), Miguel Rodriguez, 718-300-1992, rod730@gmail.com.

St. Katharine Drexel Parish, 1922, SW 20^th Ave., Cape Coral

Thursdays, 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., (Sept. 19), Timothy Altieri, 239-810-1093, Timothy.Altieri@altierilawfirm.com.

St. Patrick Parish, 7900 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota

Fridays, 6 a.m. –7:30 a.m., (Sept. 13), Joe Gomez, 303-549-4739, zemogrj@comcast.net.

St. Peter the Apostle, 5130 Rattlesnake Hammock Road, Naples

Saturdays, 6:15 a.m. – 7:45 a.m., (Sept. 14), Jeff Tenbarge, 239-839-3354, jtenbarge15@gmail.com.

St. Therese Parish, 20115 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers

Saturdays, 7 a.m. – 8:30 a.m., (Sept. 21), Jason Dudley, 239-722-9119, jasdudley1@gmail.com.

St. Thomas More Parish, 2506 Gulf Gate Drive, Sarasota

Saturdays, 7:30 a.m. – 9 a.m., (Sept. 28), Chris Parisieau, 443-994-7397, parisieau314@outlook.com.

For more information, please contact Jim Gontis, Director of Evangelization, 941-486-4754, gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

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

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

Red Mass Oct. 22 in Sarasota

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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 to host fourth annual marriage enrichment conference on Oct. 19

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

The Diocese of Venice recognizes and supports the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony and celebrates the vocation of marriage by offering supportive preparation course, inspiring conferences, and celebrating the longevity of married couples with during annual Masses. The importance of forming and accompanying all married couples, from newlyweds to empty nesters, to live out their vocation in holiness and joy is a priority! As St. John Paul II famously said, “As goes the family, so goes the nation, and so goes the entire world in which we live.” It is of crucial importance that families in the Church are empowered to their sacred covenant.

Therefore, to promote greater formation for couples, Bishop Frank J. Dewane and the Diocesan Office of Marriage and Family Life are working in collaboration with the St. John Paul II Foundation to present the fourth annual “Together in Holiness” Marriage Enrichment Conference on Oct. 19, 2024, at the Church of the Resurrection of Our Lord, 8051 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers.

In a video message encouraging engaged and married couples to attend this important Conference, Bishop Dewane said the day is a way to celebrate the essential and beautiful vocation of marriage together with God.

“Come together for a day dedicated to your marriage, and the union union you are as a couple, with God,” Bishop Dewane said. “The day will be filled with prayer, fellowship, and reflection, and presents a rare opportunity to focus on what is truly important. Know that your commitment to one another represents hope not only for yourselves and your family, but for the future of the Church. As you grow together in love, embracing your vocation as husband and wife, our Church flourishes.”

Bishop Dewane will celebrate the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass at the conference. This will include a special marriage blessing from the Bishop for all couples present.

The Conference is a great opportunity for all Catholic engaged and married couples in the Diocese to gather for themselves and their marriage.

Registration is now open for the day-long event (8 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.), which includes inspirational talks by Catholic speakers Renzo and Monica Ortega, Mallory Smyth, as well as Father Alex Pince, Diocesan Director of Vocations and Parochial Vicar at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice.

The “Together in Holiness” Conference made its Diocese of Venice debut in 2021, and the event has grown each year with more than 250 people attending in 2023. The conference has received rave reviews from participants who remark not only how wonderful the speakers are but also the supportive atmosphere the entire day offers. “It was wonderful. Each speaker offered something of value that will enrich us as a couple, and as a family going forward,” one couple from Naples said in 2023.

The following are additional comments from previous attendees:

“We enjoyed the ‘Together in Holiness’ Conference so much! It was a refresher from our marriage prep retreat, and we would definitely recommend more couples attend this Conference!”
“It was a wonderful day to spend time away from the constructs of everyday, busy life and just focus on time with my best friend.”
“It was encouraging to see so many couples committed to growing in their faith and marriage.”

The cost is $54 for registration before Sept. 9, and $64 afterwards. Childcare ($5 per child), as well as full and partial scholarships, are available.

For those interested in attending the Together in Holiness marriage enrichment conference, registration information is available at www.togetherinholiness.org/venice. You can also contact Conference Coordinator Ellen Santoro at ellen@forlifeandfamily.org or 832-779-1070 for more information.

Continuing the Journey

For couples who wish to continue enriching their marriage—whether or not they attend the Conference—the “Together in Holiness” Formation series is offered. The Formation series is year-round marriage enrichment for small groups of four to six couples gathering to explore a particular theme based on the life, teaching and witness of St. John Paul II. At the gatherings, couples share a meal, watch a brief video and have guided prayer, Scripture and discussion. If you would like to participate in or learn more about the Together in Holiness Formation series in the Diocese of Venice, contact THFormation@forlifeandfamily.org.

News briefs for the week of August 23, 2024

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

Catholic Charities Summertime Appeal continues

Weekly Catholic Young Adults of Naples gathering

All Catholic young adults are welcome to attend weekly small groups to help strengthen their relationship with God and build community with each other at 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays for ages 35-55 and Thursdays for ages 21-39 at St. John the Evangelist Parish, 625 111th Ave. N., Naples. No RSVP is required and for further information, please email catholicyoungadultsofnaples@gmail.com.

Magnificat Breakfast September 14

The next Magnificat breakfast for women will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Sept. 14, 2024, at the Crown Plaza Fort Myers Gulfcoast Hotel, 9931 Interstate Commerce Drive, Fort Myers. The speaker is Esperanza Lisweski. Esperanza moved to Florida from Michigan and became very involved in growing in her faith. In 2016 she introduced and continues to facilitate the Divine Mercy Cenacle at St. Cecilia Parish in Fort Myers. Please send a $26 check, payable to Magnificat Fort Myers, to Felice Gerwitz, 15720 S. Pebble Lane, Fort Myers, FL 33912. Your mail request must be postmarked by Friday, Sept. 6, or make reservations online at https://magnificatfortmyers.com/order-tickets/.

Legion of Mary Annual Retreat Sept. 28

Monthly Days of Prayer at OLPH

The Monthly Days of Prayer at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center resume in September. Father Mark Yavarone, OMV, will be the presenter on Sept. 8, 2024, and Sept. 11. The topic is “Catholic Principles and Voting.” The day begins at 9:30 a.m. with continental breakfast, and includes two conferences, lunch, Eucharistic Adoration, and opportunities for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, private meditation, and prayer. The day concludes with Mass that ends at 3:15 p.m. The topic is the same for both dates, so choose the day that works best for your schedule. OLPH is located at 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice. To register, please visit:// https://olph-retreat.org/monthly-day-of-prayer.

Evangelization Training in September

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. To register scan the QR code in the flier below and for further information contact Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseofvenice.org for further information.

Tag: evangelization

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News Briefs for the week of Sept. 27, 2024

Two evangelization training opportunities being offered

News Briefs for the week of September 20, 2024

That Man is You program now at 17 Parishes

News Briefs for the week of September 13, 2024

News briefs for the week of September 8, 2024

News briefs for the week of August 30, 2024

Diocese to host fourth annual marriage enrichment conference on Oct. 19

News briefs for the week of August 23, 2024

Diaconate Personal Data