hispanic outreach Archives - Page 2 of 20

News Briefs for the Week of January 31, 2025

Posted on February 6, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Immigration Help

Catholic Charities has identified a central contact for immigration questions and information. Marco Sanchez’s services are those of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc. Sanchez’s contact information is marco.sanchez@catholiccharitiesdov.org or 941-208-2384 (direct office line), 941-599-0851 (cell phone). There is no charge for these services.

Ayuda de Inmigración

Caridades Católicas ha identificado un contacto central para preguntas e información de inmigración. Los servicios de Marco Sánchez son los de Caridades Católicas, Diócesis de Venice, Inc. La información de contacto del Sr. Sánchez es marco.sanchez@catholiccharitiesdov.org o 941-208-2384 (línea directa de oficina), 941-599-0851 (teléfono celular). No hay ningún cargo por estos servicios.

2025 Catholic Charismatic Renewal Conference Feb. 7 in Port Charlotte

Enjoy enlightening teaching, heartfelt worship and meaningful fellowship during the 2015 Catholic Charismatic Renewal Conference. The Conference is Feb. 7, 2025 (7 p.m. – 9 p.m.), and Feb. 8 (8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.), at St. Charles Borromeo Parish, 21505 Augusta Ave, Port Charlotte. The Friday night event is free, and the Saturday event registration fee is $45 and includes lunch. To register, visit www.charisms.org.

“Invite One Back” Training Feb. 8 in Arcadia

Learn how to invite others back to Mass in a non-confrontational way Saturday, February 8 from 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. at St. Paul Parish Hall, 1330 E. Oak St, Arcadia. This one-day workshop will teach participants person-to-person evangelization and is co-sponsored by the Diocese of Venice and St. Paul Street Evangelization (SPSE). All are welcome. The cost is $20 per person and includes all materials as well as breakfast and lunch. This training will be in English. Online registration is required at stpaulse.com/venice.

Annual Walk for the Poor in Cape Coral on Feb. 15

The St. Andrew Conference of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, a nonprofit organization that helps local neighbors in need, will sponsor its 4th Annual Walk for the Poor, at 10:30 a.m., Feb. 15, at St. Andrew Parish, 2628 Del Prado Blvd. S., Cape Coral. The St. Andrew Conference is celebrating its 55 years of service to Cape Coral neighbors. Since 1970, the St. Andrew Conference has been providing tangible assistance in the form of rental assistance, food vouchers, water and electric utility assistance, prescription, temporary lodging, thrift store vouchers, bus passes, job resources, and referrals to other agencies and organizations. All proceeds and donations from the Walk for the Poor will directly benefit the people in the Cape Coral area served by SVdP. To register for the walk or to make a donation, please visit https://go.rallyup.com/capesvdp/Campaign/Details.

Catholic Days at the Capitol deadline Feb. 18

Join others from around the state for the annual Catholic Days at the Capitol in Tallahassee from March 18-20. The three-day trip includes a legislative briefing on important bills relating to human life and dignity, a breakfast with legislators and the Florida Bishops, tours of the capitol and museum, scheduled visits with legislators and the annual Red Mass of the Holy Spirit with the Florida Bishops and public officials. Bus transportation is provided at no cost as long as space is available. The registration deadline is February 18; for registration, please visit www.dioceseofvenice.org/respectlife, or contact Jeanne Berdeaux at 941-374-1068 or Berdeaux@dioceseofvenice.org.

Theology on Tap in Sarasota Feb. 8

Theology on Tap, a monthly program for young adults in their 20s and 30s, providing an opportunity to explore faith topics in a relaxed and social setting in the Sarasota area, will next gather at 7 p.m., Feb. 20, 2025, at Oak & Stone, 5405 University Parkway, Sarasota. The speaker for February is Father Daniel Scanlan, Parochial Vicar at St. Thomas More Parish in Sarasota. His talk is titled: “Pilgrims of Hope: Reflection on the Jubilee Year 2025.” The evening begins with food and refreshments with presentations, and discussions about the Catholic Faith beginning about 8 p.m. The is no cost to attend. Please email Andres Prias at prias@dioceseofvenice.org with any questions

Community Pregnancy Clinics Dinner Feb. 22

Community Pregnancy Clinics in Sarasota is hosting its “Loving them Both” dinner event at 5 p.m., Feb. 22, 2025, at the Grove Event venue, 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch, to support its Sarasota pro-life pregnancy clinic. The featured speaker is Dr. John Bruchalski. There is no cost to attend; an opportunity to make a financial contribution to support CPCI’s Sarasota clinic and its life-saving mission will be extended. To reserve your spot, please visit https://supportcpci.com/sarasota-2025-dinner-event/.

Pre-Lenten Retreat at OLPH in February

February’s Monthly Day of Prayer at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice, will be presented by Father Leland Thorpe, OMV. Father Thorpe will reflect on how we can prepare now to have our best Lent yet when it begins in a talk titled: “Better than Chocolate: Preparing to Have Your Best Lent Yet.” Treat yourself to a day of peace and spiritual growth on either Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025, or Wednesday, Feb. 12. The day begins at 9:30 a.m. with continental breakfast, and includes two conferences, lunch, Eucharistic Adoration, the opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, private meditation, and prayer. The day concludes with 2:30 p.m. Mass. To register, please visit olph-retreat.org/month.

Kentucky Derby Gala & Auction

Help build a brighter future for St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School by attending the Kentucky Derby Gala, at 6 p.m., Feb. 22, 2025, at Heritage Bay Golf & CC, 10154 Heritage Bay Blvd, Naples. The cost is $175 per person and all proceeds benefit ongoing campus and classroom expansions and improvements. For more information contact Gina Groch at 239-455-2262 x321 or to register visit Gala & Auction Registration – St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School.

Conference for health care professionals March 1 in Fort Myers

The annual Converging Road Conference for health care professionals and students will take place March 1, 2025, at St. John XXIII Parish, 13060 Palamino Drive, Fort Myers. The theme for the Conference is “Catholic Social Doctrine in Medicine. Check-in opens at 7:30 a.m., with Mass at 8 a.m. Opening remarks are at 9:15 a.m. Converging Roads is a program of the St. John Paul II Foundation. Registration is available at March 1, 2025 | Fort Myers, FL | Converging Roads – St. John Paul II Foundation. Participation in the conference online is an option (check registration information for details). For More Information, please contact Gabby Anglin, Conference Coordinator, at 309-397-5436 or at gabby@forlifeandfamily.org. Medical professionals are eligible to earn continuing education credits for participating in the conference.

Vocation Awareness Weekend in March

Discover what the seminarian life is all about during the weekend of March 7-9, 2025, at St. John Vianney College Seminary, 2900 SW 87th Ave, Miami. Participants will travel together for a weekend of fellowship, prayer and fun. Speak with seminarian students and teachers about their journey. Transportation is provided. For questions or to register contact Lina Johnson at johnson@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-486-4720.

Event to support homeless outreach in Naples on March 8

St. William Parish in Naples is hosting the inaugural “A Night of Building HOPE,” an inspiring event dedicated to fostering community support and raising awareness for the homeless in the Naples area. The event will take place on March 8, 2025, in the Parish Center at 750 Seagate Drive, Naples. The St. William HOPE (Homeless Outreach Program for Empowerment) program is committed to making a positive difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness in Naples. HOPE’s mission is driven by a deep belief in the inherent dignity and worth of every individual and aims to empower lives and create a community where everyone feels valued and supported. HOPE has been operating for the past four years, providing hot meals, clothing, transportation and social services to those most in need, in partnership with St. Peter the Apostle Parish and Catholic Charities of Collier County. Tickets and sponsorships are available by visiting: https://BUILDHOPE.givesmart.com. For more information about “A Night of Building HOPE” please contact Sharon Tolnai at sharon@saintwilliam.org or 239-330-2267.

Malta Camp USA registration open

Malta Camp USA, inspired by the Order of Malta’s charism, is a unique 5-day experience for adults with disabilities. The camp is free, and will be offered this summer from June 22-27, 2025, at Siena College in Loudonville, New York (outside of Saratoga). Primarily designed for those 21-40 years of age, Malta Camp participants have an opportunity to feel independent, enjoy new experiences, and make new friends. The camp opens doors for many disabled adults who might otherwise live very “shut-in” lives. To learn more, or to apply, visit www.maltacampusa.org Application deadline is March 14.

Jubilee Pilgrimage of Hope to Poland

Join Father Greg Cleveland. OMV, for an inspiring pilgrimage of lifetime to Poland from Sept. 14 – 25, 2025. The pilgrimage is part of the 2025 Jubilee Year, and it themed: “In the footsteps of St. John Paul II. The 12-day trip includes stops in Krakow, Czestochowa, Wadowice, Prague, Budapest, and Vienna. St. John Paul the Great is known as the Witness to Hope. Come and see the places that inspired him, Our Lady of Czestochowa and the Divine Mercy Shrine of St. Faustina, along with some of the most beautiful cities of Central Europe! Departs from Tampa. For more information, please contact Father Cleveland at 303-927-8065. To register, please visit https://bit.ly/ClevelandCentralEurope.

Diocese to celebrate Jubilee Year events

Posted on January 10, 2025January 10, 2025 by Bob Reddy

The 2025 Jubilee Year, as established by Pope Francis, has begun and Bishop Frank J. Dewane has designated five locations as Jubilee pilgrimage sites within the Diocese of Venice. These pilgrimage sites are Epiphany Cathedral in Venice, St. John XXIII Parish in Fort in the Diocese of Venice Myers, St. John the Evangelist Parish in Naples, St. Paul Parish in Arcadia, and Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice.

“In designating the retreat center and four Parishes, located in each of the geographical regions (Deaneries) of the Diocese of Venice, it is my prayer that the faithful of the Diocese take advantage of the grace of the Jubilee Year, and visit the Jubilee pilgrimage site and be filled with hope,” Bishop Dewane said.

The public schedule for each of the Diocese of Venice pilgrimage sites will be announced in the coming weeks and posted at https://dioceseofvenice.org/ and on social media.

A Jubilee Year is a special holy year of grace and pilgrimage that happens at least once every 25 years. The Pope can call for extraordinary jubilee years, such as the 2016 Year of Mercy. During the Jubilee, Catholics are encouraged to make a pilgrimage to Rome. For pilgrims who can’t travel to Rome, the Bishops of the world were encouraged to designate local pilgrimage sites for the Jubilee

Pope Francis opened the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica before Mass on Christmas Eve, officially launching the Jubilee Year 2025. Passing through a Holy Door during the Jubilee symbolizes entry into a new life in Christ and the beginning of a journey of conversion. The motto for the special year is “Pilgrims of Hope.”

One grace that “Pilgrims of Hope” on the Jubilee may obtain is the “Jubilee indulgence.” This grace is granted by the Holy Father to anyone who travels to any sacred jubilee site, whether in Rome, the Holy Land, or a locally designated sacred site.

The 2025 Jubilee Year, a year filled with special spiritual, artistic, and cultural events in Rome, will conclude during the Christmas Season 2025. Some of the biggest events of the Jubilee of Hope will be the canonizations of Blessed Carlo Acutis, during the Jubilee of Teenagers on April 27, and Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, during the Jubilee of Young People on Aug. 3. Finally, will be celebration of the Jubilee of Families, Children, Grandparents, and the Elderly on the weekend of May 30 – June 1.

Jubilee Adoration Nights

As part of the 2025 Jubilee Year, the Diocese of Venice Office of Evangelization is hosting Jubilee Adoration Nights at four Parishes in the coming months. These Jubilee Adoration Nights, which include guest speakers and time to spend in the presence of the Lord in the Most Holy Sacrament, are the first in a series of opportunities within the Diocese of Venice to participate in the larger 2025 Jubilee Year as established by Pope Francis. The motto for the special year is “Pilgrims of Hope.” Each Jubilee Adoration Nights is 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on the following dates and locations: Thursday, Jan. 16, St. Agnes Parish, 7775 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples; Friday, January 31, St. Andrew Parish, 2628 Del Prado Blvd., Cape Coral; Saturday, March 22, St. Patrick Parish, 7900 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota; and Friday, May 2, St. Paul Parish, 1330 E. Oak. St., Arcadia.

The Jubilee Prayer

Father in heaven,

may the faith you have given us

in your son, Jesus Christ, our brother,

and the flame of charity enkindled

in our hearts by the Holy Spirit,

reawaken in us the blessed hope

for the coming of your Kingdom.

May your grace transform us

into tireless cultivators of the seeds of the Gospel.

May those seeds transform from within both humanity and the whole cosmos

in the sure expectation

of a new heaven and a new earth,

when, with the powers of Evil vanquished,

your glory will shine eternally.

May the grace of the Jubilee

reawaken in us, Pilgrims of Hope,

a yearning for the treasures of heaven.

May that same grace spread

the joy and peace of our Redeemer

throughout the earth.

To you our God, eternally blessed,

be glory and praise for ever.

Amen

Diocese celebrates Christmas 2024

Posted on January 10, 2025January 10, 2025 by Bob Reddy

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came to be through him, and without him nothing came to be. What came to be through him was life, and this life was the light of the human race; the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1:1-5

The opening passage to the Gospel of John was read on Christmas Day at churches throughout the world, reminding all that the birth of Jesus Christ was from God, bringing forth life, a light of the human race.

This moment was celebrated throughout the Diocese of Venice, most significantly through the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated a pre-recorded TV Mass for the Homebound from Incarnation Parish in Sarasota with the students from Incarnation Catholic School present. This hour-long Christmas Mass reaches thousands of those who are unable to attend Mass for a variety of reasons.

During this Mass, Bishop Dewane said we, the human race, were created so we would be attracted to the light.

“Jesus is the light, not just when it is totally dark, but He brings the light to our world,” Bishop Dewane said. “He is the star that led the shepherds to the manger. His true light allows us to come out of the shadows and darkness and into the world.”

By allowing Christ to be the light in our lives we are called to the Covenant, enlightened in how we must live our lives, the Bishop continued.

“We have been given a great opportunity to let the light overcome the darkness in our lives,” Bishop Dewane said. “I encourage everyone to take advantage of this great opportunity at Christmas to renew our commitment to go forward to testify and magnify the Light of Christ into the world in how we live our lives each day.”

The manger, or Nativity scene, symbolizes the celebratory focus of the Christmas Season – Jesus Christ. Several Diocesan Parishes, and each Catholic school, took time to have a retelling of the birth of Jesus with young children and in some cases with live animals.

For example, St. Michael Parish in Wauchula held a living Nativity play on Dec. 21, 2024, included a donkey, horses and many angels and shepherds. This community celebration is organized by the religious sisters who serve the Parish, the Sister Servants of the Lord and the Virgin of Matara, and includes a festival and the distribution of gifts for the children in the area.

As part of the St. William Parish HOPE (Homeless Outreach Program for Empowerment) ministry, volunteers from St. William and St. Peter the Apostle Parishes, in partnership with Catholic Charities, hosted a Christmas Lunch for the homeless in Naples. The luncheon took place on Dec. 23 at the Judy Sullivan Family Resource Center of Catholic Charities. Hot meals were provided along with music and décor to ring in the Christmas spirit. Each guest attending received gifts donated by parishioners.

Likewise, St. Raphael Parish in Lehigh Acres, in partnership with the Rotary Club of Lehigh Acres, offered a free holiday meal on Christmas Day. The meal featured traditional holiday favorites, including ham, mashed potatoes, gravy, stuffing and a variety of sides — perfect for bringing some festive cheer to your day.

Christmas is also a time to help others so donations for the needy were piled high and distributed. The most common form of collecting items for needy children is through an Angel Tree, where the ornaments are a wish list item for a child or family.

At Our Lady of Light Parish in Fort Myers, the generosity of the faithful was impressive as the Parish Hall was full of wrapped packages that were later delivered to the community. As noted in a social media post to the Parish, “Everything we have is a gift from God in one way or the other, and to see such giving is heartwarming.”

Catholic schools spent much of the month in preparation for Christmas with pageants, recitals, concerts, parties, and other fun, such as creating handmade presents for family members or building and decorating gingerbread houses. At the same time, the schools teach students the true meaning of Christmas, including bringing the love of Christ, that is in their hearts, out to the world.

Our Lady of Guadalupe honored throughout Diocese

Posted on January 10, 2025January 10, 2025 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, large processions, early morning prayer, as well as outdoor festivities. Many of these celebrations included a variety of dancers dressed in elaborate costumes or traditional garb.

“Our Lady of Guadalupe means so much to me and my family,” said Maria Lopez of St. Paul Parish in Arcadia after Mass on Dec. 8, 2024. “It is a devotion I grew up with and learned about from my grandparents and parents. We all pray to the Blessed Virgin when there is an illness in the family or we need guidance in our lives. Our Lady of Guadalupe gives me great comfort.”

Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated Mass in a field at St. Paul Parish in Arcadia. The Mass was celebrated ahead of the Feast Day to accommodate the maximum number of families. As a result, more than 1,500 took part.

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. 8 at Pioneer Park in Zolfo Springs. The Mass was in three languages, Spanish, English, and Creole, representing the diversity of the Parish. Before Mass, a procession with a statue of Our Lady followed by children carrying flowers led to the park pavilion. A cultural celebration followed.

For the first time, St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Port Charlotte held its own community-wide celebration of Our Lady on Dec. 8, highlighted by a procession around the Parish grounds and a wide variety of food and music.

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 as well as prayer and contemplation before the image of Our Lady.

At St. Jude Parish in Sarasota, Aztec dancers led the opening processing with a standing-room-only Mass beginning at 11 p.m. on Dec. 11. Father Jiobani Batista, Pastor of St. Jude, told the faithful that honoring Our Lady and following her example is a pathway to growing closer to Her Son, Jesus Christ.

Meanwhile, at Holy Cross Parish in Palmetto, hundreds gathered before dawn to hear a mariachi band serenaded Our Lady prior to a Mass which lasted until sunrise.

The celebration at St. Peter the Apostles Parish in Naples took place on Dec. 12, when nearly 100 dancers led a procession around the Parish grounds and into the church for Mass. Carlos Martinez said the Feast Day is an important one for people with Mexican heritage. “The Blessed Virgin Mary embraced us with open arms. What an important moment that deserves our thanks and a true celebration.”

It was in 1531 when Our Lady of Guadalupe appeared, dressed like an 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. Skeptical, after a second visit, the Bishop asked for a sign. 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 the conversion of Mexico almost overnight, with nine million Mexicans baptized into the Catholic Church within a decade, when up to that time Catholic missionaries from Europe had made very little headway. The 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 of 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.

News Briefs for the week of December 13, 2024

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

Florida Bishops hold retreat in Venice

The Bishops of Florida held an Advent Retreat at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice in early December. The retreat spanned to include the observance of the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary on Dec. 9, 2024. (The celebration of the Solemnity was transferred to Dec. 9 from Dec. 8 to not interfere with the Second Sunday of Advent.)

Seminarian instituted into Ministry of Lector

Diocese of Venice Seminarian Bao Quoc Nguyen was among six who were instituted into the Ministry of Lector by the Most Reverend Douglas J. Lucia, Bishop of the Diocese of Syracuse, on December 4, 2024, at Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary in Weston, Massachusetts. Those who are in formation to be ordained as Catholic priests must serve in the Ministry of Lector. This role prepares them to proclaim the Word of God through their work in the community and through the celebration of Mass and other liturgical rites. The principal duties of the lector at a Sunday Mass are to proclaim the first and second readings. In the absence of a deacon and/or cantor, the lector may carry the Gospel Book to the altar, proclaim the petitions for the Universal Prayer, and lead the responsorial psalm.

Bishop helps Parish celebrate Our Lady of Guadalupe

Bishop Frank J. Dewane was the principal celebrant for a Mass at St. Paul Parish in Arcadia. The Mass included prayers, petitions and music in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe. A full celebration of the Feast Day, which is Dec. 12, followed and included traditional dancers and music as well as food. Our Lady of Guadalupe is the Patroness of the Americas and is an important symbol of the Catholic faith, particularly among Catholics of Hispanic descent. Large celebrations take place at Parishes throughout the Diocese of Venice for this Feast Day each year. Please read the Dec. 20 e-edition of the Florida Catholic for full coverage of the local Our Lady of Guadalupe celebrations.

Street Evangelization training takes place in Cape Coral

The latest offering of the St. Paul Street Evangelization (SPSE) Training took place on Dec. 7, 2024, at St. Andrew Parish in Cape Coral. Adam Janke, Vice-President of SPSE was the presenter, offering guidance on how to share the faith in the public square. Following the classroom training, participants were offered the opportunity to use what they learned in a Live Lab at the Coralwood Shopping Plaza in Cape Coral to gain practical, hands-on experience in real street evangelization. There were 27 people in attendance at the all-day training and many participated in the Live Lab.

Bradenton robotics team participates in large competition

Three robotics teams from St. Joseph Catholic School in Bradenton have been busy building machines and learning how to implement new code for competitions. On Dec. 7, 2024, they had an opportunity to test their skills at a local FIRST Robotics Event at the State College of Florida. The teammates had a great time learning together, and with every attempt to run their programs, they showed improvement.

Sarasota Catholic School awarded $10,000 grant

St. Martha Catholic School in Sarasota was awarded a $10,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Sarasota County to support the implementation of a donor database. The grant was provided by the George J. & Alice Pugh Donor Advised Fund of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County. Implementing a donor database at St. Martha Catholic School will streamline the management of donor information, allowing the school to efficiently track contributions and target outreach efforts. This system will be instrumental in securing the necessary funds to provide educational opportunities and financial assistance to students in our community who need it most. For more information about St. Martha Catholic School, please visit www.stmarthaschool.net.

Hispanic Festival in Sarasota draws thousands

Posted on November 18, 2024 by Bob Reddy

Beautiful weather accompanied a day filled with food, fun, entertainment and lots of smiling faces for the 20th Annual Hispanic Festival at St. Jude Parish in Sarasota.

An estimated 10,000 people gathered at St. Jude for this event on Nov. 9, 2024, a celebration of both the individual nations and the unified culture of a diverse Parish.

Held annually in November, this annual Festival is the oldest one in Sarasota County to feature authentic Latino food, music and culture. The day includes musical performances and ethnic dancers as well as food from many nations. Throughout the Parish grounds were tents full of a wide variety of foods that left many mouths watering. People attend the event annually from as far away as Naples and Clearwater. It has become a much anticipated and beloved event for the Parish.

The Hispanic Festival opened with prayer, followed by a “Parade of Flags” as each country represented at the festival was announced, and the respective flags brought forth cheers.

As a bilingual Parish, the members of both the English and the Spanish speaking congregation at St. Jude participated and volunteered to staff the booths.

The celebration of more than a dozen countries lasted from morning until sunset. Throughout the day, there were performances, offering folk and modern music, and dance. Many proudly wore clothing representing their country of origin.

To mark the 20^th anniversary of the Festival, Father Jiobani Batista, Pastor at St. Jude, unveiled renderings of a new Parish church, which was met with great excitement. This building will be a permanent, purpose-built church. The existing Hispanic-American Center, where Masses and all Parish activities now take place, will become a Parish Hall and religious education building. Fundraising is taking place now with construction projected to start by 2026.

Martina Lopez, 8, enjoyed trying a variety of foods, including empanadas from the Argentinian food tent, which is a beef-filled pastry. She also tried a few of the desserts from the Brazilian tent, including brigadeiro, a sweet confection. The highlight of the day for the young girl was the various dancers who wore colorful dresses. “It was so wonderful to see them dancing to such beautiful songs.”

Whether it was the food, the music, the dancing, or the joy of being around so many happy people, the Hispanic Festival was a success by any measure.

The proceeds of the Hispanic Festival go to support the various outreach efforts of St. Jude Parish, including a food pantry and other programs which help families in need throughout the year.

News Briefs for the week of Oct. 11, 2024

Posted on October 15, 2024October 15, 2024 by Bob Reddy

Diocesan priest named Monsignor

Congratulations to Father Robert R. Cannon who has been named Chaplain to His Holiness with the title Monsignor. Monsignor Cannon, who is a priest of the Diocese of Venice, and a retired U.S. Air Force Colonel, has recently retired as the Chancellor of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), where he served for the past eighth years.

Pets blessed across Diocese

To mark the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, Oct 4, 2024, Diocese of Venice Catholic Schools and Parishes hosted a blessing of the animals. At St. Francis Xavier Catholic School in Fort Myers, the Administrator, Father Steven Clemente, blessed with holy water each animal in turn. They ranged from horses to hamsters and every type and size of creature in between. Whether they were furry, scaly or feathery, there was no doubt the God’s creatures were much loved by their owners.

Many stand up against Amendment 4

Public prayer vigils took place in multiple locations throughout the Diocese of Venice in early October seeking the defeat of Amendment 4, an extreme and dangerous proposed amendment to the Florida Constitution that would radically expand access to abortion. The first “VOTE NO ON 4!” rally took place during rush hour on Oct. 1, 2024, in downtown Bradenton. The rally was sponsored by the St. Joseph Parish Respect Life Ministry. Holding “Vote No on 4” signs, the rally had a captive audience as traffic was at a near standstill. The goal was to educate motorists on the dangers of Amendment 4. On Sunday, Oct. 6, there were two “Life Chain Across America” prayer vigils, one on U.S. 41 in Bonita Springs, near St. Leo the Great Parish, and the other was in Naples at U.S. 41 and Pine Ridge Road, near St. William Parish. Several hearty women, men and children withstood the rain to be visible. To learn more about Amendment 4, please visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/offices/offices-departments/respect-life/amendment4/. Also, please remember that the 40 Days for Life Prayer Vigil is taking place through Nov. 3 in Sarasota, Fort Myers and Naples. For details, please visit www.40daysforlife.com and search for the nearest location. VOTE NO ON 4!

Catholic Charities hosts Family Fun Day

Guadalupe Social Services of Catholic Charities hosted its annual Family Fun Day on Oct. 6, 2024, in Immokalee. The events welcomed families for games, fun and food. The games included sack races, hoop tosses and more. Fun consisted of facepainting and playing games for prizes. The food included hot dogs, chips, frozen flavored ice, popcorn and more. For the adults there were also games with prizes. Staff from Catholic Charities and volunteers, such as the women’s lacrosse team from nearby Ave Maria University, helped run the event.

Register NOW for Oct. 19 Diocesan Marriage Conference – Space is Limited

Don’t miss the chance to discover holiness in your marriage! Time is running out to register for all Catholic engaged and married couples to 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 unique 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 conference includes a Mass and Marriage Blessing celebrated by Bishop Dewane, and then 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 http://www.togetherinholiness.org/venice.

Rosary Congress continues until Oct. 11

The 2024 Diocesan Rosary Congress, scheduled at more than 50 Parishes between Oct. 5 and 11, 2024, got off to a strong start. At St. Thomas More Parish in Sarasota, the Rosary Congress ran from Oct. 7-8 and included 24 hours of Eucharistic Adoration with the hourly praying of the Holy Rosary. Prayer intentions were for the protection of life and the defeat of the dangerous Amendment 4, which, if approved, would radically expand access to abortion in Florida. However, several host Parishes were forced to cancel their participation in the Rosary Congress due to the threat and impacts of Hurricane Milton. For a list of participating Parishes, please visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/offices/offices-departments/evangelization/rosary-congress-2024/.

Red Mass in Naples Oct. 16

The Catholic Lawyer’s Association of Southwest Florida cordially invites all to its inaugural event. The Red Mass will be celebrated by Most Rev. Frank J. Dewane, Bishop of the Diocese of Venice at 6 p.m., Oct. 16, 2024, at St. Peter the Apostle Parish, 5130 Rattlesnake Hammock Road, Naples. RSVP to Tylan Ricketts at tricketts@willisdavidow.com.

Undy Sunday Collier County collection begins Oct. 19

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, a basic necessity many do not have. There are several ways to assist. To learn more, contact Allegra Belliard at 239-793-0059.

Red Mass in Sarasota Oct. 22

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.

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.

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

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

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 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

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.