Tag: feast day

Honoring the Boundless Mercy of God: Divine Mercy Sunday

Posted on by Bob Reddy

By Rachel Powers – Special to the Florida Catholic

The Second Sunday of Easter, also known as Divine Mercy Sunday, concludes the Octave of Easter and celebrates God’s infinite mercy revealed through Jesus Christ – particularly the forgiveness of sins made possible by His Passion, death, and Resurrection.

The feast was formally instituted by St. Pope John Paul II in 2000 at the canonization of St. Faustina Kowalska, a Polish religious sister who lived in Kraków from 1905 to 1938 and is known for receiving visions and messages from Jesus centered on Divine Mercy.

In her Diary, St. Faustina recorded Jesus’ invitation to trust completely in His mercy, especially through the Sacrament of Reconciliation. “Every time you go to confession, immerse yourself entirely in My mercy with great trust, so that I may pour the bounty of My grace upon your soul,” Jesus said. “From this fount of Mercy, souls draw graces solely with the vessel of trust. If their trust is great, there is no limit to My generosity” (Diary, 1602).

Many Parishes throughout the Diocese of Venice observe Divine Mercy Sunday with special prayer services, and several host novenas leading up to the Feast. Our Lady of the Angels Parish in Lakewood Ranch held a Divine Mercy Prayer Service on April 12, 2026, at 3 p.m., traditionally known as the Hour of Mercy, commemorating the hour of Christ’s death on the Cross. The faithful of the Parish gathered in a solemn spirit of devotion and reflection.

The prayer service included the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, the chanting of the Divine Mercy Chaplet led by cantor Bella Henry, and readings from St. Faustina’s Diary that emphasized Christ’s call to trust in His mercy.

Father Sebastian Szczawinski, Pastor of Our Lady of the Angels Parish, offered reflections on Divine Mercy, encouraging those present to deepen their faith and reliance on God’s compassionate love. The concluding Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament was accompanied by the hymn “Holy God, We Praise Thy Name.” Following the service, several parishioners knelt in prayer before the Divine Mercy image, embracing a moment of quiet devotion.

Each year, Divine Mercy Sunday offers the faithful an opportunity to receive a Plenary Indulgence. This indulgence is granted to those who, on that day, either participate in a Divine Mercy devotion in a church or chapel, or pray the Our Father, the Creed, and a prayer to the Merciful Jesus in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament. In addition, the faithful must receive Holy Communion in a state of grace, pray for the intentions of the Holy Father, and have made a sacramental confession within the 30 days.

Celebrating the Annunciation of the Lord

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord is a day we celebrate the Blessed Virgin Mary’s unequivocal “Yes!” to God.

Celebrated on March 25, 2026, the Solemnity marks the Angel Gabriel’s appearance to the Virgin Mary (Luke 1:26-38), and the Angel’s announcement that the Blessed Virgin has been chosen to be the Mother of Our Lord, and Mary’s willing acceptance of God’s Holy Plan.

To mark this Solemnity, Ave Maria Parish, Ave Maria University, as well as the entire town took part in various activities on Saturday, March 21, in anticipation of the Solemnity so as to allow more people to participate in the festivities.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane was the principal celebrant for the Mass at Ave Maria, saying the faithful should learn from the example of Mary and that we should apply Her willingness to be open to the call of the Lord in our own lives; as it is inspiring to know the Blessed Virgin Mary had the courage to say “yes.”

This profound moment has been the subject of many artists, Bishop noted, when Mary consents to become the portal into which God enters into His own creation.

“The Word becomes flesh,” Bishop Dewane said. “The Lord’s presence among humanity began with the Annunciation of Christ’s presence in Mary’s womb. We believe in life in the womb; we have a person. We have to recognize the relationship between the two. Mary’s ‘yes’ leads to the Incarnation of the Lord, and Jesus Christ gave His radical ‘yes’ to the will of the Father when asked to embrace the cross which leads to our redemption.”

This singular moment between this young woman and this messenger of the Almighty should be a lesson to each one of us, Bishop Dewane said.

“Our own salvation hinges upon our consent to be saved,” the Bishop said. “That consent needs to be given over and over again. You have to strive to listen to the Lord, to give consent to who we are, and who the Lord wants us to be. We have to go forward acknowledging the role of Mary, and accept those words of the Angel Gabriel, that nothing is impossible with God.”

Father Joseph Lugalambi, Ave Maria University Chaplain, thanked Bishop Dewane for his presence for the Mass and his continued support of the University.

Several University students expressed their delight at being a part of the celebration that is the focus of the school, the Parish and the town. “This is a special day and what a joy to be a part of it,” one sophomore from Naples said.

Following the Mass, the faithful were led in a Prayer of Consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, before the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. An outdoor Eucharistic Procession with more than 1,000 of the faithful walking and praying the Holy Rosary in unison included not only the Blessed Sacrament but also a statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary held high and University house banners proudly displayed. The procession travelled a path to a new Rosary Walk, where the closing Benediction was held.

Additional festivities included an outdoor barbecue dinner, and concert.

Nine Months with Christ in the Womb

As we celebrate the Feast of the Annunciation on March 25, all are invited to meditate on the mystery of the Incarnation in a unique way. Nine Months with Christ in the Womb draws our attention to Jesus, the God-fetus, during the nine months He lived within Mary. In meditating on the mystery of Christ’s humility in the womb, we foster within a new appreciation for the dignity of our brothers and sisters. Follow nine months of Christ in the womb week-by-week at https://dioceseofvenice.org/offices/offices-departments/respect-life/nine-months-with-christ-in-the-womb/.

 

News Briefs for the week of March 27, 2026

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Appointments

After broad consultation, Bishop Frank J. Dewane announces the following:

Father Phillip Schweda, retired as Administrator of St. Bernard Parish, Holmes Beach, effective March 24, 2026, and thus, is relieved of his duties as Administrator of St. Bernard Parish.
Father Gerard Critch, Pastor of St. Bernard Parish, Holmes Beach, effective March 24, 2026, and thus, is to be relieved of his duties as Pastor of St. Peter the Apostle Parish in Naples.

Memorial Mass held for deceased Deacons and their spouses

Remembering those who have gone before us, Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated the annual Memorial Mass for deceased Deacons and their wives on March 25, 2026, the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice. The gathering coincided with a Deacon Lenten Retreat. The Memorial Mass brings together those Deacons serving today, and their wives, while honoring the memory of those who have served in the Diocese of Venice since its founding. As part of this annual tradition, during the Prayer Intentions, the names of those who have passed away during the previous year were solemnly read as candles were lit in their honor. Today, there are more than 90 Permanent Deacons, many seasonal, living and serving throughout the Diocese of Venice.

Parish celebrates Feast Day

St. Joseph Parish in Bradenton hosted a Feast Day celebration on March 19, 2026, the Solemnity of St. Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Father Rafal Ligenza celebrated the Mass and led the faithful in a prayer of consecration to St. Joseph. A reception was held in the Parish Center where a St. Joseph Table, which included an image of the Saint and the Child Jesus, was prepared and blessed with traditional offerings of bread, offered in thanksgiving. A reception followed.

Marriage Prep Day draws 50 couples

A Diocese of Venice Marriage Preparation Day of Reflection took place March 21, 2026, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice. There were 50 couples from Parishes throughout the Diocese.  Attendees included engaged couples and couples who are seeking to have their civil marriage convalidated in the Church. The day covered a variety of topics including communication, moral teaching within marriage, finances, the Rite of Marriage, fertility appreciation and Natural Family Planning, and marriage as a Sacrament. Presenters were Jim and Eva Gontis, Father Greg Cleveland, OVM, Spiritual Director of the retreat center, and Margaret Sadasivan from the St. Gianna Center. Diocesan Marriage Days of Reflection are held multiple times throughout the year in English and Spanish. To learn more, please visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/sacraments/marriage/marriageprep/.

Jericho Walk – Sarasota 40 Days for Life closing event March 29

The Jericho Walk, Sarasota’s 40 Days for Life Spring Campaign closing event will take place at 5:30 p.m., at the parking lot of Community Pregnancy Clinics, 1419 7th St. Sarasota. A Jericho Walk is as Joshua and the Israelites did to bring down the walls of the Jericho. The walk is seven times in silent prayer around the block which contains the Sarasota Planned Parenthood abortion facility, with participants praying to God to bring down the walls around hearts to end abortion in Sarasota, Florida and the U.S. The total distance is about 2 miles. Participants who do not wish to walk are encouraged to remain and pray in the parking of Community Pregnancy Clinics. The event will also include a prayer service and reflection on the completed 40 Days for Life prayer campaign to end abortion as well as a look forward to continuing the prayer campaign against abortion throughout the year. All are welcome. Bring your own chair to the event.

40 Days for Life closing Fort Myers Vigil March 29

The closing of the 40 Days for Life Spring prayer vigil to end abortion in Fort Myers will take place at 6:30 p.m., March 29, 2026, Palm Sunday, at 6418 Commerce Park Drive, Fort Myers. The prayer vigil will include prayer, song and two guest speakers, and will take place in the public right-of-way in front of the Planned Parenthood abortion facility. The 40 Days for Life prayer Spring campaign began on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 18.

Handel’s “Messiah” to be performed on Palm Sunday in Naples

The St. William Parish Music Ministry will present selections from Handel’s “Messiah” at 4 p.m., Palm Sunday, March 29, 2026, in the Church at 601 Seagate Drive, Naples. G.F. Handel’s choral masterpiece will highlight the Passion and Resurrection of Our Lord Jesus Christ, featuring professional soloists, orchestra and the St. William adult choir, under the direction of Richard Owen, St. William Music Director. The free performance will be followed by a reception in the Parish Hall.

Retreat Center Triduum Retreat

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice is hosting a Triduum Retreat, Easter Weekend, April 2-5, 2026. This retreat begins with supper on Holy Thursday and ends with breakfast on Easter Sunday.  The liturgies of the Lord’s Supper, Way of the Cross, Commemoration of the Lord’s Passion, Easter Vigil, and Sunrise Easter Liturgy are celebrated. A series of six one-hour conferences on various topics is offered throughout the retreat.  In addition, the opportunity for Confession is available. Total cost is $525 per retreatant for a private room or $360 per retreatant for a shared, double occupancy room (retreatant to locate appropriate roommate where silence can be maintained). No commuter rate is offered. Register at www.olph-retreat.org.

Foundation grant applications open

The grant cycle is now open for three different community grants from the Catholic Community Foundation. To be considered by the Board of Directors for a grant, the project must clearly be aligned with the intention of the specific fund. Please see below for descriptions of the various funds and note application deadlines. To apply for any Catholic Community Foundation grant, please visit https://tinyurl.com/y9j4u9nz.

  • The Fund for the Care of the Migrant Poor concentrates its efforts on working to improve the health, education, and welfare of the migrants in the Diocese of Venice. Preference will be given to those projects under Catholic auspices. All applications are due by April 3, 2026.
  • The Marilyn Brummer Fund concentrates its efforts on working with entities that are involved in anti-human trafficking assistance, assistance for single mothers, and the Catholic Charities Children’s Center, which is dedicated to enhancing the lives of children in the Dunbar community in Fort Myers. Programs, projects, and entities must be located in, and associated with, the Diocese of Venice in Florida. Applications are due by May 4.
  • The Carey Family Grant provides up to $4,000 in support for critical needs that might go unfunded within the Diocese of Venice in Florida at Catholic Parishes, Catholic Missions, Catholic Schools, or a program or ministry of the Diocese of Venice. Applications are due by May 4.

Monthly Day of Prayer

The Monthly Day of Prayer at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice is an opportunity to take time out of your busy and hectic life to focus on God. The next Days of Prayer are April 8 and April 12, 2026, with the theme of “Celebrating Divine Mercy.” Father Leland Thorpe, OMV, will explain that celebrating Divine Mercy involves a profound reflection of God’s mercy and the opportunity to receive special graces. The day begins at 9:30 a.m. with Continental breakfast and includes two conferences by the OLPH priest, the opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, lunch, and Mass. Time will be made available for adoration, private prayer, or meditation on the beautiful grounds. The day concludes at 3:15 p.m. The cost is $45. Register at www.olph-retreat.org.

Mass for Victims of Abuse April 10 in Venice

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, and in conjunction with the Secretariat of Child and Youth Protection of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), the Diocese of Venice will hold a Mass for Victims of Child Abuse for the 18th consecutive year with Bishop Frank J. Dewane as the Celebrant. The Mass will take place at 8:30 a.m., Friday, April 10, 2026, at Epiphany Cathedral, 350 Tampa Ave. W., Venice. All are invited to attend as we come together to pray for the victims of abuse.

Catholic Healthcare Ethics Conference April 11 in Fort Myers

Medical professionals, students, and interested laypeople are invited to the third annual Converging Roads healthcare ethics conference 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., April 11, 2026, at the Church of the Resurrection Parish, 8051 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers. The conference is themed, “The Dignified Mission of Catholic Health Care.” Join national and local experts either in person or online as they discuss topics such as “The Vocation to Palliative Care,” “The Benefits and Challenges of Artificial Intelligence in Health Care,” “Christian Anthropology and the Renewal of Medicine,” and more. Converging Roads is an initiative of the St. John Paul II Foundation and is presented collaboratively with the Diocese of Venice and Southwest Florida Guild of the Catholic Medical Association. Continuing education credits for health care professionals are available. To register, visit April 11, 2026 | Fort Myers, FL | Converging Roads – St. John Paul II Foundation. For more information, contact Taylor Briggs, Conference Coordinator, at 832-779-1070 or taylor@forlifeandfamily.org.

Sarasota Parish Divine Mercy Celebration

St. Thomas More Parish, 2506 Gulf Gate Drive, Sarasota will celebrate Divine Mercy Sunday, April 12, 2026. St. Faustina, who experienced visions of Jesus, wrote in her diary: “the soul that will go to Confession and receive Holy Communion (on Divine Mercy Sunday) shall obtain the complete forgiveness of sins and punishment.” This grace is similar to the grace received at baptism and greater than a plenary indulgence. Mass begins at 3 p.m., and will be preceded by a recitation of the Holy Rosary at 2 p.m., Praying of the Chaplet of Divine Mercy through song at 2:30 p.m. The Sacrament of Reconciliation will be offered beginning at 2 p.m.

Theology on Tap April 16 in University Park

The next gathering of Theology on Tap, a very special night of fellowship, faith, and fun with fellow Catholic young adults from across the Diocese, is 7 – 9 p.m., April 16, 2026, at Oak & Stone, 5405 University Parkway, University Park. Don’t miss this chance to grow in faith, connect with others, and enjoy an evening out with friends old and new. Theology on Tap is an opportunity for young adults in their 20’s and 30’s to explore faith topics in a relaxed social setting. Theology on Tap meets on the third Thursday of every month. There is no cost to attend, and no registration required. Bring a friend. For more information, contact Andres Prias at 941-441-1122 or prias@dioceseofvenice.org.

Faith & Ale of Southwest Florida April 16

Faith & Ale, a Catholic Men’s Apostolate in Southwest Florida, offers monthly gatherings of Catholic men promoting fellowship and growth in faith. The next gathering is April 16, 2026, at St. Cecilia Parish, 5632 Sunrise Drive, Fort Myers. The guest speaker is Dr. Jim Papandrea, who will discuss “The Original Church: Busting the Myths About Early Christianity.” Tickets are $10. Doors open at 6 p.m. Register https://faithandale.com/. For more information, email faithandalefortmyers@gmail.com.

Project Rachel retreat in Spanish April 18

For women or men who have been scarred by abortion, the Diocese offers “Project Rachel,” an outreach of the Catholic Church to those who are suffering and in need of healing following an abortion. This program offers help through the sacraments, retreats, and referrals for professional counseling, all confidentially. The next one-day healing retreat will be held April 18, 2026, in Spanish. The next retreat in English is currently in the planning stages. For more information, or to join, please contact Sylvia Jimenez, Project Rachel Coordinator, at 941-412-5860 (English and en Español), or project.rachel@dioceseofvenice.org. The Diocese also works with “Support After Abortion,” a national outreach to provide individualized care for those impacted by abortion. For details, visit https://supportafterabortion.com/ or www.esperanzaposabortio.org.

Boots & Bandanas April 24

Round up your friends and join Catholic Charities for a western-inspired evening supporting food security and education programs serving families across DeSoto County at Boot & Bandanas at 6 p.m., April 24, 2026, St. Paul Parish, 1330 E. Oak St., Arcadia. Tickets are $125. To purchase tickets or to become a sponsor please visit https://catholiccharitiesdov.org/events.

Ignatian Preached Retreat at OLPH May 8-11

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice is hosting an Ignatian Preached Retreat May 8-11, 2026. This three-night silent retreat will introduce participants to the great themes of the Spiritual Exercises in a group setting. The schedule includes conferences each day, daily Mass, and an opportunity to meet at least once with the retreat director for Confession and/or spiritual direction. Conference topics center on Ignatian spirituality, prayer, and discernment. Total cost is $525 per person for a private room and $360 per person for a shared room (retreatant to locate appropriate roommate where silence can be maintained). To register, please visit www.olph-retreat.org.

Charity Golf Tournament

The annual St. Mary Academy Golf Tournament has an 8:30 a.m. shotgun start May 16, 2026, at Heritage Harbour Golf Club, 8000 Stone Harbour Loop, Bradenton. The cost is $150 per player. Please call Connie Taft at 941-685-2108 to register or for sponsorship opportunities.

Diocese of Venice Totus Tuus Missionary Opportunity for Summer 2026

The Diocese of Venice is now accepting applications for college-aged young adults to serve as Totus Tuus Missionaries for the 2026 Parish evangelization and catechesis Summer Program. This role involves traveling in teams to approximately seven parishes throughout the Diocese, leading catechetical sessions for children and youth. Missionaries will participate in a required training period from May 20 – 30, 2026, followed by weekly parish assignments through July 24, with a scheduled break from June 28 – July 4. During each Parish week, missionaries lead daytime sessions for elementary students (grades 1–6) from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and evening sessions for middle and high school youth (grades 7 – 12) from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Responsibilities include teaching the Catholic Faith using the Totus Tuus curriculum, facilitating activities, including skits and songs, working collaboratively as a team, teaching about the Mass, leading in Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, leading discussion groups for teenagers and leading Night Prayer. This is a paid position. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and a High School graduate and must be available for the complete program schedule. Visit the Diocese of Venice website for more information or to register, or contact Andres Prias, Diocesan Director of Youth & Young Adult Ministry, at prias@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-441-1122.

Prison Ministry volunteers needed throughout Diocese

Join the team of Diocesan volunteers who enter county jails and state prisons within the 10-county Diocese of Venice for pastoral outreach, to distribute the Eucharist and facilitate programs. Priests, Deacons, and lay volunteers are encouraged to assist in this ministry. Volunteers will first participate in an orientation program before entering the facility and will shadow experienced volunteers until they feel comfortable. Times and days vary by facility. Please contact Joe Mallof at 224-217-7139 or Bob Hiniker 863-558-0407 to learn where you can fit into this joyful opportunity.

Retreat Center seeks volunteers

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice is in need of volunteers. Help provide a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere for those who come to OLPH seeking transformation in Christ. Areas of need include reception, gardening, dishwashing, and serving meals. Contact the office to sign up at 941-486-0233 or visit www.olph-retreat.org/new-volunteer.

Free Rosary Repair Service

Send your broken rosaries in a padded envelope to Betty and Dick Holden, Free Rosary Repair Service, 7930 Estero Blvd., Unit 502, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931. Rosaries will be repaired and returned within the week of receipt. Donations of old rosaries are also accepted, which will be repaired and sent to missions. Include a note indicating repair or donation. For more details, please call 239-463-3993, 860-595-6370 or holdenbnd@gmail.com.

Parish celebrates Feast Day Consecrated to Blessed Virgin Mary

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The faithful of Our Lady of Light Parish in Fort Myers celebrated their Feast Day Feb. 27, 2026, and at the same time the Parish was consecrated to Our Lady of Light.

Father Eric Scanlan, Pastor of Our Lady of Light, opened the Friday Mass explaining that when he was appointed by Bishop Frank J. Dewane to the Parish in January, he immediately looked up information about the patroness. There are only six Parishes that hold the name of Our Lady of Light in the world. The others are in Ohio, California, Mexico, where the original image resides today, the Philippines, and Brazil.

“It is a beautiful title with an interesting history,” Father Scanlan explained.

The origin of the title dates to the 18th century, when in Palermo, Sicily (now in the country Italy), Jesuit Father Giovanni Antonio Genovesi, seeking an appropriate image of Our Lady to bring on his missionary work to Mexico, consulted a nun, whose vision was of the Virgin Mary surrounded by intense light, holding the Child Jesus, and rescuing a soul from the jaws of a demon.

Referring to the image of Our Lady of Light, Father Scanlan said Our Lady is the image that all mothers can relate to, as she is shown juggling tasks while remaining composed and loving. “While holding Jesus, she is saving us at the same time,” Father said. “It is a beautiful source of life – a tenderness and goodness – an invitation to deepen our relationship to Our Lady as we seek to grow in our faith.”

Though not favored by many Jesuits, in 1732 the image ended up in León, Mexico, where it immediately gained great popularity. Today, the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Light stands as testimony to the lasting impact of Our Lady on the community.

Father Scanlan said the image also reminded him of the Prologue to the Gospel of John 1:4-5, “the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”

“This speaks to the victory of good over evil, grace over our weak humanness,” Father said. “Mary provides loving maternal tender presence on our spiritual journey. At the crucifixion, Jesus says to John, ‘Behold your mother,’ then to Mary, ‘Behold your son.’ It is an invitation for all of us to deepen that relationship with Mary; to help lead us to her son Jesus to save us from sin.”

Because the Feast Day fell within Lent, Father Scanlan said he had to do some research to ensure the celebration met with Church norms. In this case, because the Feast Day celebration was for the Parish patroness, Our Lady of Light, the Mass and readings superseded what would usually be used for the Friday of the First Week of Lent.

Before the closing prayer, Father Scanlan knelt before an image of Our Lady, placed near the altar for the Feast Day Mass, and led the faithful, more than 600, in the Prayer of Consecration of the Parish and people to Mary, Our Lady of Light.

Afterwards, many thanked Father Scanlan for celebrating the Feast Day Mass and for the added blessing of the consecration.

Catherine Major, a seasonal resident from New Jersey, was nearly moved to tears by the Prayer of Consecration, saying it was one of the most powerful moments she has had at a Mass in a long time. “This was really wonderful,” Major said. “I have a strong devotion to Our Lady. My family Parish is Our Lady of Mercy, so the Blessed Virgin has always had special place in my heart. But this was special, and more so because there were so many people here to be a part of this moment. Beautiful.”

Following the Mass, there was a reception in the Parish Hall.

Filipino Catholics celebrate Holy Child

Posted on by Bob Reddy

A celebration of the “Santo Niño” (or Holy Child), a symbol of the birth of Catholicism in the Philippines more than 500 years ago, took place on Jan. 18, 2026, at Incarnation Parish in Sarasota.

The Diocese of Venice Santo Niño Festival on the Second Sunday of Ordinary Time was organized by the local Filipino Catholic Community (Senor Santo Niño Devotees of Manasota Florida, Inc.), with more than 600 people participating in the Mass and Festival which celebrates an important conversion story. This was the fifth year for this Festival in the Diocese.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane was the main celebrant for the Mass and said the Santo Niño Mass and Festival “is a wonderful example of a faith and culture coming together beautifully. This devotion has spread throughout the world due to the spreading of Filipino culture expanding into the world. Your presence within the Diocese brings with it a unique richness.”

Bishop Dewane encouraged everyone present to hear the call of Santo Niño to help fulfill their mission in life to serve the Lord, while gaining strength from the celebration to encourage the reign of Christ throughout the world and within themselves.

The celebration also serves as an opportunity to refocus on the children in the Filipino Catholic community.

“During this Eucharistic celebration let us entrust our children to the protection and guidance of the Holy Child, as He is so much a part of history and our lives,” said a leader of the Senor Santo Niño Devotees of Manasota Florida, Inc. “We ask Santo Niño to take care of our children and teach us how to do likewise.”

The Feast Day celebration serves to remind Filipinos of the Christianization of their homeland in the 16th century but also enables them to see the relevance that this devotion to the Santo Niño has for people to this day, whether they are living in the Philippines or elsewhere. The Feast places a special emphasis on the children and youth, with all the hopes they raise.

 

The Mass opened with the traditional presentation of the Santo Niño statue to Bishop Dewane. In addition, the faithful are encouraged to bring their own Santo Niño statue, or one purchased in the past year, to be blessed by the Bishop. This was done at the conclusion of the Mass.

 

The presentation is a reflection of the tradition of Filipino immigrants, or diaspora, who brought their Santo Niño statues with them to the United States to be their spiritual recourse, assistant and protector.

 

Following the Mass, the celebration continued with traditional music and dancers first outside the Parish Church and then in the Parish Hall.

 

Mass Celebrates Mary, Holy Mother of God, and Haitian Independence

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The New Year began with a Mass to celebrate the Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God, and the 222nd Anniversary of Haitian Independence at St. Leo the Great Parish in Bonita Springs.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane hosted the celebration that brought together the Catholic Haitian Community of the Diocese of Venice. Most Rev. Désinord Jean, Diocese of Hinche, Haiti, was the Principal Celebrant and Homilist. The priests of the Diocese concelebrated at the Mass.

Bishop Jean, who also celebrated this Mass in 2019, thanked Bishop Dewane for his welcome and presence at the sacred liturgy.

“On behalf of my brother Bishops of Haiti, I thank you wholeheartedly for opening the doors of your Diocese and your heart to the Haitian community and for your constant solicitude you show for the migrants and for all those who are far from their homeland,” Bishop Jean said.

Speaking to the faithful, Bishop Jean encouraged those gathered to remain strong as they seek the Lord’s mercy in their lives. It is through prayer and action that one grows in faith and love of the Lord. The Bishop also noted that while those present may now live in the United States, they are forever spiritually connected to their brothers and sisters in Christ in Haiti.

Bishop Dewane thanked the community of Haitians who contribute to the spirit of the Lord present in the Diocese, and Haitian priests for their commitment to serving within the Diocese. He added that the Catholic Haitian population conveys a richness to the Diocese of Venice, by their participation and by their liveliness that they bring into their Parishes.

“It is we, the entire Diocese, who are made rich by your presence,” Bishop Dewane said.

This annual Mass serves to bring the far-flung Catholic Haitian Community together once a year, explained Father Jean Marie “Fritz” Ligonde, who is the Diocese Haitian Ministry Director and Parochial Vicar at St. Columbkille in Fort Myers.

Roseline Alexandre, of St. Peter the Apostle Parish in Naples, expressed her joy at being able to participate in the annual celebration of Haitian independence while also honoring the Blessed Virgin Mary.

“I have lived in the United States for many years, but my heart remains in Haiti,” Alexandre said. “This day is a way to reconnect with my heritage.”

It was in 1803 that the Haitians defeated the largest and most powerful army at the time, the army of Napoleon, in Cap-Haitien. Haiti became the second country in the Americas to declare its Independence.

When the French were in control, they enacted a law that said they were the only ones who could eat soup because they were in the upper class. When Haiti proclaimed its independence, all Haitians started to eat soup as a way to demonstrate that everyone was equal. Thus, began the custom of cooking and eating soup on New Year’s Day as a way to celebrate freedom. Symbolically, soup was among the cuisine offered at the reception that followed the Mass.

Parishes with large Haitian communities arranged buses for people to attend the Mass. Many of the people were dressed in the colors of the Haitian flag, blue, red, white, green and yellow.

At the end of the Mass, everyone joined in singing the Haitian National Anthem while waving flags which had been provided to everyone.

Our Lady of Guadalupe honored and celebrated throughout Diocese

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Prayer, reverence, and music marked the Feast Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Patroness of the Americas, throughout the Diocese of Venice.

Celebrated on Dec. 12, the Feast is often linked to the Dec. 9 Feast of St. Juan Diego, the day in 1531 when Our Lady first appeared to the Saint near modern day Mexico City.

Our Lady of Guadalupe Feast Day celebrations are a longstanding tradition in the Diocese of Venice. In addition to celebrating this special day with the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, there were a variety of other events, including overnight vigils, processions, early morning prayers, and outdoor festivities. Many of these celebrations included dancers dressed in elaborate, colorful costumes or traditional garb.

“This celebration is everything to my family,” said Regina Sanchez of St. Peter the Apostle Parish in Naples after Vigil Mass on Dec. 11, 2025. Dressed in a sweatshirt with an Our Lady of Guadalupe image, she noted how the Feast Day and story of Our Lady is a devotion that has passed down through the generations in her family.

“I remember going to church as a little girl in the middle of the night and praying until sunrise, then coming back to a big party later with pretty dancers and lots of food, especially sweets,” Sanchez recalled. “It still means so much, because we must honor Our Lady, as a sign of respect to her Son, Jesus Christ. Our Lady of Guadalupe is a beacon of light and gives us all great comfort.”

Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated Mass in a field at St. Paul Parish in Arcadia on Dec. 14, which was also Gaudete Sunday, the Third Sunday of Advent. The Mass was celebrated after the Feast Day to accommodate the maximum number of families. As a result, more than 1,500 took part.

Bishop Dewane called on the faithful to seek the intercessions of Our Lady of Guadalupe as they face challenges and fears in their daily lives.

“Our Lord will always listen to His Mother and she will always listen to you, to us, during these times,” Bishop Dewane said. “Let us remain united, striving to live in the peace of the Lord. Remember, the world offers a fleeting peace; it is not permanent as the peace of Christ is. Go forward knowing that you are all within my daily prayers.”

A festival followed the Mass with a wide variety of food as well as dancers. Many of the young girls were dressed as Our Lady, while the young boys dressed as St. Juan Diego, the peasant who saw the apparitions of Our Lady in Mexico City.

A large gathering of the faithful from St. Michael Parish in Wauchula and Holy Child Mission in Bowling Green also took place on Dec. 7 at Pioneer Park in Zolfo Springs. The Mass was celebrated in three languages, Spanish, English, and Creole, representing the diversity of the Parish. Before Mass, a procession of children carrying flowers and dressed as Our Lady or St. Juan Diego proceeded into the park pavilion with a statue of Our Lady. A cultural celebration followed.

At St. Catherine Parish in Sebring, the students from the Catholic school processed about a mile along a main road to the church for Mass. They were led by traditional dancers. Many of the pre-school children dressed up for Mass as well. Present to witness the celebration were some of the 15 Catholic school principals from across the Diocese who were in the area for a Diocesan meeting.

Many Parishes held vigils, some lasting until dawn. These included a retelling of the story of Our Lady of Guadalupe, mariachi bands, the singing of songs to Our Lady (Las Mañanitas or the Little Mornings) as well as prayer and contemplation before the image of Our Lady.

It was in 1531 when Our Lady of Guadalupe appeared, pregnant and dressed like a Aztec princess, to St. Juan Diego, a poor widower who was on his way to Mass. She asked, in his native language, to have the Bishop of Mexico build a church in Her honor. The Bishop was skeptical and following a second appearance to St. Jan Diego of the Blessed Virgin, the Bishop asked for a sign.

To this, the Blessed Mother instructed St. Juan Diego to climb to the top of Tepeyac Hill where he would find flowers to pick and place in his tilma, a garment made from cactus. St. Juan Diego gathered the dark pink roses into his cloak with the help of the Blessed Mother.

For a third time, St. Juan Diego was ushered in to see the Bishop with a sign that the apparitions were real – Castilian roses. That alone was a miraculous sign since these roses were not from that region and did not grow in winter, but were in fact from Castile, Spain, the hometown of the Bishop. St. Juan Diego did not realize – until after he opened his cloak letting the roses tumble out – that an image of Our Blessed Mother was emblazoned on his tilma.

This apparition led to a cascade of conversions of Aztec natives of Mexico; within the first year about 250,000 had been baptized into the faith, radically changing their lives by abandoning human sacrifices and pagan gods, and stopping a social hierarchy which promoted slavery of the lowest classes. Within a decade, some nine million had entered the Catholic Church. Prior to the appearance of Our Lady of Guadalupe, few had been converted by the Catholic missionaries from Europe.

The current Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City was built on the site of the apparitions and is one of the most visited religious shrines in the world. It is also home to the actual tilma of St. Juan Diego, which can still be seen, with the image clearly visible, nearly 500 years later.

Our Lady of Guadalupe was first declared “Patroness of the Americas” by Pope Pius XII in 1946, a title reaffirmed by St. John Paul II in 1999.

Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception 2025 – Holy Day of Obligation Dec. 8

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Our Blessed Mother is recognized and celebrated in a special way on Dec. 8, 2025, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

 

As Dec. 8 falls on a Monday, the Solemnity is a Holy Day of Obligation and the Patronal Feast Day of the United States. The Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception retains the precept to attend Mass when it falls on a Monday. Catholics are obligated to attend Mass on this day.

“Born without Original Sin, and chosen by God to bear His only Son, Mary plays an essential role in Christmas and in salvation,” Bishop Frank J. Dewane said. “Her Motherhood of Jesus Christ, Our Savior, made possible a pathway to Heaven for all the faithful. The Blessed Mother still intercedes on our behalf, drawing the faithful closer to Jesus and to God, through prayer.”

 

One of the most often confused Doctrines of the Catholic Church, many people, including Catholics, mistakenly think that the Immaculate Conception refers to the conception of Christ through the action of the Holy Spirit in the womb of the Blessed Virgin Mary. That event is in fact celebrated as the Feast of the Annunciation of the Lord on March 25, nine months before Christmas.

 

The Immaculate Conception, which is celebrated on Dec. 8, refers to the condition that the Blessed Virgin Mary was free from Original Sin from the very moment of her conception in the womb of her mother, St. Anne. The Church celebrates the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary on Sept. 8, nine months after the Immaculate Conception.

 

The doctrine of the Immaculate Conception dates back centuries, declared as doctrine by Pope Pius IX on Dec. 8, 1854.

 

Pope Francis said in 2024 that on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception the “Church contemplates the one who is ‘full of grace’… This is how God saw her from the very beginning in His plan of love. He saw her as beautiful, full of grace… Mary the Immaculate is inscribed in God’s plan; she is the fruit of the love of God that saves the world.”

 

On the Solemnity this year, Pope Leo XIV will continue the papal tradition of visiting the statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary near Rome’s Spanish Steps.

 

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Holy Days of Obligation

According to Church doctrine, Holy Days of Obligation are feast days on which Catholics are required to attend Mass and to avoid (to the extent that they are able) servile work. Holy Days of Obligation during Advent and Christmas seasons include:

the Solemnity of Immaculate Conception (Dec. 8), Christmas (Dec. 25), and the Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God, (Jan. 1, 2026).

Saints and Souls honored in November 2025

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Happy All Hallows Eve! The final day of October is known by its secular name, Halloween, but it has deep roots that date back to the early Church and as a sacred time to remember the dead, pray for the souls in purgatory, and to reflect on one’s own call to holiness.

 

This was the message Bishop Frank J. Dewane offered during his Oct. 31, 2025, Relevant Radio show “Witnessing Faith with Bishop Dewane.” Bishop Dewane went on to note that All Hallows Eve, All Saint’s Day (Nov. 1), and All Souls’ Day (Nov. 2), form a powerful trio in the life of the Church and the faithful.

 

The Bishop explained how St. Pope Gregory III established the modern-day All Saints Day early in the 8th century and stressed the need to begin the vigil for the solemnity the day before, thus creating All Hallows Eve.

 

“Many modern customs have ancient twists, such as in the early days of the Church, people dressed as saints and devils,” Bishop Dewane explained. “Don’t misunderstand me, the devils were not to glorify evil, but rather to dramatize Christ’s victory over evil.”

 

Even trick-or-treating came from “souling” when children would go to homes to offer prayers for the dead in exchange for “soul cakes,” the Bishop said.

 

“This reminds us Christ truly is the light in darkness,” the Bishop said. “Over time, it became more playful and more secularized and, of course, commercialized. All Catholics are invited to remember and do their best to reclaim the deeper meaning these special days have for us. Halloween doesn’t belong to the world, it began with the Church.”

 

Joining Bishop Dewane on the radio show was Father Leland Thorpe, OMV, Assistant Director of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice.

 

Father Thorpe explained that this year, because the Solemnity of All Saints falls on a Saturday, it is not a Holy Day of Obligation. Even so, he suggested everyone should try to go to Mass.

 

Praying to the saints, particularly on All Saints Day, dates to the early days of the Church. Before it was widely recognized, Christians prayed to the early saints and martyrs by visiting their tombs. It was in the 800s when All Saints Day was created. The timing, Father Thorpe said, coincides with the waning days of the Liturgical Year, a time when it is darker for longer, the seasons are changing, mirroring the end of time.

 

“Saints are sinners who have received God’s mercy,” Father Thorpe said. “They are our brothers and sisters, but they are also God’s masterpieces.”

 

Saints are noted for opening themselves to God’s love and mercy, and by allowing God to work freely within them and through them and they became transformed more perfectly into what Christ was like, Father said. “They show us what the Gospel looks like in any walk of life.”

 

Bishop Dewane said the honoring of the saints should remind us that sainthood is open to everyone, made available at our baptism and awaits our response to the Lord’s call.

 

“Saints are men and women who are reconciled with themselves, with others, and with God,” Bishop Dewane said. “They are really able to shine the light of God’s mercy and love within the world, living through the ebb and flow of everyday life, with their families, at work, or during their free time. They know to live like Jesus and to trust in Him.”

 

All Souls’ Days – Month of All Souls

All Souls Day (Nov. 2), combined with November being dedicated to the Month of All Souls, are also important for the faithful to consider.

 

Father Thorpe explained how the concept of souls waiting to get into heaven – purgatory – is a necessary step for the faithful to ultimately enjoy being in the presence of God.

 

“We need to be transformed and made holy as He is holy – radically purified through and through,” Father said. “We believe that before entrance into heaven there is a last step of purification, a transformation that prepares the heart in order to enjoy God’s glory in heaven; this we call purgatory.”

 

Through the invitation offered with All Souls’ Day, and for all of the month of November, Father Thorpe said we are called to pray for the souls in purgatory, to offer sacrifices, and other pious practices. “We do this in order to assist them in being purified on their way to heaven.”

 

A plenary indulgence is offered in the first eight days of November if one devoutly visits a cemetery, or to pray, even in your own heart, for the departed. The additional requirements remain the same, which is praying for Pope’s intention, going to confession, receiving Holy Communion, and full detachment from sin.

 

“Witnessing Faith with Bishop Dewane” can be heard on Relevant Radio on 1410 AM and 106.7 FM in Fort Myers and 1660 AM and 93.3 FM in Naples at 8:30 a.m. on the last Friday of every month (Oct. 31), or anytime at https://dioceseofvenice.org/our-bishop/.

Blessings for all creatures – great and small

Posted on by Bob Reddy

As the sun rose in front of Incarnation Catholic School in Sarasota Oct. 3, 2025, the sounds of barking, meowing and the stir of critters small and large echoed throughout the gathering area.

It was the eve of the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, which has become synonymous with the “Blessing of Animals.” According to history, the 12th century patron saint of animals and the environment spoke to the animals and treated them as members of his family.

Students of the school and parishioners brought their animals of all different sizes. These animals are cherished and loved as part of their family but also part of God’s creation, explained Pastor Father Eric Scanlan.

Father Scanlan led a brief prayer service which recalls the words of the Old Testament Books of Genesis, Exodus, Kings and Jonah.

As Father Scanlan went through the crowd of students, parents and parishioners, each animal was blessed with Holy Water.

The students shrieked with delight when the Holy Water blessed their animals, including the stuffed animals held closely by the youngest students in pre-kindergarten-3. One student, with a toothy grin, said as she hugged her furry dog, “So happy. I love him so much.”

Similar animal blessings took place at parishes throughout the Diocese including at several of the Catholic Schools on Oct. 3, with St. Joseph Catholic School in Bradenton, St. Francis Xavier Catholic School in Fort Myers and St. Ann Catholic School in Naples, opting to host the pet blessing at the end of the school day.

Meanwhile, most Parishes hosted their “Blessing of the Animals” on Oct. 4, the actual Feast Day. At San Antonio Parish in Port Charlotte, the Knights of Columbus and Lady Columbiettes offered dog treats and bowls for sale.

As the animals were blessed the owners made certain that their precious pets were blessed by the Holy Water.

One proud owner, Nancy Connely, was overjoyed to have her bulldog blessed. “Hank has been part of our family for 12 years. He has trouble getting around, so any extra prayers and blessings are welcomed.”

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