holy week Archives - Diocese of Venice

2026 Easter Triduum celebrated in Diocese

Posted on April 9, 2026April 9, 2026 by Bob Reddy

The summit of the Liturgical Year is the Easter Triduum, from the evening of Holy Thursday to Easter Sunday. Though chronologically three days, they are liturgically one day unfolding for us the unity of Christ’s Paschal Mystery.

The single celebration of the Triduum marks the end of the Lenten Season and leads to the Mass of the Resurrection of the Lord at the Easter Vigil.

The liturgical services that take place during the Triduum are:

Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper (Holy Thursday)
Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion (Good Friday)
Mass of the Resurrection of the Lord (Easter Vigil)

Thousands of the Faithful of the Diocese of Venice gathered at Parishes for the celebration of the Triduum, April 2-5, 2026.

The Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper at St. Paul Parish in Arcadia includes the commemoration when Jesus Christ instituted the Sacrament of Holy Communion prior to His arrest and crucifixion. It also observes His institution of the priesthood. This Liturgy included the presentation of the oils blessed and consecrated by Bishop Frank J. Dewane during the March 31, 2026, Chrism Mass, at St. Leo the Great Parish in Bonita Springs, holy oils which will be used for the Sacraments in the Parishes throughout the year. Later was the traditional washing of the feet, reenacting Jesus washing the feet of the Disciples. Following the Prayer after Communion, the Mass concluded with a procession to transfer the Holy Eucharist to a place of repose in the Parish Hall. This action left the tabernacle vacant until the Easter Vigil.

On Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion, the Faithful at St. Raphael Parish in Lehigh Acres participated in the liturgy. This celebration is not a Mass, as the hosts offered at Communion were consecrated on Holy Thursday. The liturgy included the reading of the Passion from the Gospel of John. Next was the presentation of the cross, brought forth unveiled as: “Behold the wood of the Cross, on which hung the salvation of the world.” These words were sung and the congregation responded: “Come let us adore.” The faithful were then encouraged to venerate the cross. The cross at St. Raphael was first venerated by the priests, altar servers and choir, before it was brought to parishioners who were not able to come forward. Each person who venerated the cross did so by a touch, a bow, or a genuflection.

Either prior to, or after, the Good Friday Liturgy, many Parishes hosted the Stations of the Cross, sometimes led by children or including a dramatic retelling, often by Catholic school students.

For the third year in a row, a public Stations of the Cross took place in downtown Venice, starting at Epiphany Cathedral and proceeding into nearby Centennial Park and then down Venice Avenue. Nearly 1,000 took part, including members of the youth group, as the streets were temporarily blocked for the occasion. In addition, faithful from St. Martha, St. Patrick, St. Thomas More, Incarnation, St. Jude and Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Parishes in Sarasota took part in the annual Sarasota Ministerial Association Good Friday Stations of the Cross on Main Street. About 750 participated with several Catholic priests and deacons leading the readings at the different stations.

On Holy Saturday, tradition includes the blessing of Easter Baskets, typically filled with to be served on Easter Sunday with candies to be given to children. The only Mass of the day is the Easter Vigil.

On Easter Sunday, several Parishes celebrated Mass outdoors, at sunrise, while extra Masses were added throughout the morning to accommodate the increased numbers common for this holiest of days.

Many Parishes also hosted fun for children which often included Easter egg hunts either on Holy Saturday or following a Children’s Liturgy on Easter Sunday.

2026 Chrism Mass – Symbol of Unity

Posted on April 2, 2026 by Bob Reddy

Renewal of Priestly Promises; Consecration and Blessing of Holy Oils

Bishop Frank J. Dewane was joined by at least 150 priests and 1,000 of the faithful from across the Diocese for the annual Chrism Mass March 31, 2026, at St. Leo the Great Parish in Bonita Springs.

At the Chrism Mass, which the Bishop concelebrates with priests from throughout the Diocese, the Bishop consecrates the sacred Chrism oil and blesses two other oils used throughout the year for the administration of the sacraments at the Diocese’s 61 Parishes. The Mass is among the principal manifestations of the fullness of the Bishop’s Priesthood and is considered to be a sign of the close bond between the Priests and their Bishop. It is with the sacred Chrism that the priests are ordained, the newly baptized are anointed, and those to be confirmed are signed. It is with the Oil of Catechumens that catechumens are prepared and disposed for Baptism. Finally, it is with the Oil of the Sick that those who are ill are comforted in their infirmity.

The Chrism Mass is typically held at the Diocesan Cathedral in Venice but was relocated due to ongoing renovations. Usually celebrated on Holy Thursday, the Mass was celebrated on a Tuesday to allow the priests and the faithful the opportunity to attend from throughout the large Diocese.

The celebration not only brings into focus the historical context of the priesthood by the renewal of Priestly Promises, but also presents an opportunity for the priests to recall their ordination and to reflect upon their ongoing priestly vocation. Having all the priests of the Diocese come together at the Chrism Mass, united with their Bishop, just before the Easter Triduum, reminds priests of their calling to act in persona Christi – in the person of Christ. This is the largest annual gathering of the clergy for the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.

During the Renewal of Priestly Promises the gathered priests stood as one, and spoke with one voice responding, “I am,” three times to a series of questions asked by Bishop Dewane. These same questions were asked of them at the time of their Ordination to the Priesthood.

Bishop Dewane publicly thanked the priests for their continued service to the People of God throughout the Diocese of Venice. He also called upon the faithful to continue to support the priests who bring the Sacraments into their lives.

“The sacred Chrism Mass is the profound manifestation of the priestly, prophetic and kingly calling that all of us have,” Bishop Dewane said. “This comes about through the anointing that comes from Scripture. The sacramental life of the Church takes place through these men – the priests of the Diocese – who administer the sacraments with these blessed and consecrated oils which signify the Church’s healing aspect and Her mission in the many ways it is carried out.”

Importantly, the priests, who themselves are anointed with sacred Chrism at their ordination, stand in a great line that goes back to King David, through Christ.

“The anointing runs to our limbs and garments that should flow out into the world. Don’t let it go stale, instead it should flow forth and be transformative because the world needs us to be out there as agents of the Lord,” Bishop Dewane said. “It is the priests who carry those oils to the boundaries to the limits of the Diocese of Venice. A priest is sanctified to make others holy. This is the life all priests are called to live. There is no checking out and no time out. We have to respond. The Lord will give the grace needed to go forward. The Lord has ordained you for a lifetime to go out and do that each day just as King David was called, as priest, prophet and king.”

Jesus was anointed as the New David, but it does not end with Christ or the priests, because through the oils used in the sacraments, and through our encounters with Christ, every person takes on that role of priest, prophet and king according to their state in life, the Bishop said. Each sacrament brings with it an encounter with Christ, and we must be changed as a result.

“We must all listen to that call of the Lord,” Bishop Dewane said. “The priests present heard that call in a specific way, but everyone is called to share in the kingly mission – as a royal people, made in the image and likeness of God. The Lord has asked each one of us to be prophets, kings and priestly according to his or her own state in life. We are differentiated by talents given to us by the Lord, but you must not let them sit idle and not respond. The Lord is waiting for us to use the gifts given. To hear the Lord, we are called repeatedly to be men and women of prayer. It is how we respond and come to know the Lord. Listen and allow time for the Lord to speak to you, to enlighten within you what God wants you to do in your life. Learn how the Lord sees you in fulfilling His mission in the world. We each have a role to live out our prophetic identity and speak up by being the leaven, uplifting the world to highlight to others what salvation is.”

The Bishop concluded his remarks stating, “Always remember, the Spirit of the Lord is upon you because the Lord has anointed you.”

During the Chrism Mass, Bishop Dewane recognized the 13 Priests and one Permanent Deacon who, in 2026, are celebrating the 50th and 25th anniversaries of their ordination for their years of service to Christ and Holy Mother Church. He also acknowledged the 364 students in attendance from Diocesan Catholic schools.

Also present to witness this special occasion were religious men and women; Diocesan seminarians; Knights and Dames of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem; Knights and Dames of the Sovereign Order of Malta; the Knights of Columbus, including those of the Color Corps; members of the Venice Diocesan Council of Catholic Women; many Diocesan staff, and the faithful of the Diocese of Venice.

Sacred Oils

The Chrism Mass takes its name from the sacred Chrism oil, the most eminent of the three holy oils, which the Bishop consecrates and blesses for use by Parishes of the Diocese.

The sacred Chrism is both blessed and consecrated. The verb “consecrate” is applied to the action of making holy the Chrism and indicates its use to spiritually separate, sanctify and purify its recipients.

For the blessing and consecration of the sacred Chrism oil, the initial motion is to pour balsam into the oil, and then this is mixed. The balsam is added so that it gives the oil a sweet smell intended to remind those who encounter it of the odor of sanctity. All of the Faithful are called to strive for sanctity. Next, the Bishop breathes on the Sacred Chrism to symbolize the Holy Spirit coming down. At a particular point in the consecratory prayer for the Sacred Chrism, all the priests join the Bishop in extending their right hand toward the Chrism, as the Bishop concludes the prayer.

The Oil of the Sick, used for those who seek anointing, and the Oil of the Catechumens, which is imposed on those preparing for baptism, are blessed by the Bishop at different times during the Chrism Mass.

Bishop Dewane referred to the Gospel message which described the oils as being the oil of gladness, which represent the indelible mark each bestows. After Mass, the oils were given to each Pastor to use in their Parish throughout the Liturgical Year.

Priest and Deacon Jubilarians

A reception was held in the Parish Hall following the Mass to honor Priests and Deacon celebrating their jubilee anniversaries in 2026.

Seven Priests celebrating 50 years were recognized, Father Edward Blackwell; Father Vincente Clemente; Father Lawrence Esposito; Father Francis Hanlon, OSFS; Father Thomas Heck; Father Michael Orsi; and Father Timothy Sheedy. The six priests celebrating the 25^th anniversary of their priestly ordination were Father Lorenzo Gonzalez, Father Philip Joly, Father Jacek Mazur, Father David Pignato, Father Philip Scheff, and Father David Vidal. One Permanent Deacon, Deacon Gary Ingold, also marks his 25^th year of service to the Catholic Church.

2026 Holy Week is Here Paschal Triduum is the heart and summit of Liturgical Year

Posted on March 27, 2026 by Bob Reddy

As the Lenten Season draws to a close, now more than ever, we must prepare for the Easter Triduum which bespeaks the suffering, death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, rendering visible that God’s love has no bounds.

Holy Week is upon us, and it is a time to prepare for the holiest day of the Liturgical Year in the Catholic Church, Easter, the greatest of all Sundays.

On the days of Holy Week, the faithful essentially act out parts of Christ’s life. Bishop Frank J. Dewane said, “The importance of the Paschal Triduum is enhanced as the celebration of these important moments in the suffering, death and Resurrection of Our Lord, Jesus Christ are what unite us, bringing light in the face of darkness.”

Each day of Holy Week builds upon the other, leading up to the ultimate celebration of Easter with the Resurrection of Jesus. Many of the week’s traditions date back to the earliest days of the Church.

Palm Sunday, March 29, 2026, which reenacts the entrance of Jesus into Jerusalem, is best known for the blessing of the palms. During this Mass the Gospel account of the Passion of Christ is announced, with different people reading different parts to ensure each person actively participates in the responses, and to bring to life and make present the Passion of Christ.

The annual Diocesan Chrism Mass takes place at 10:30 a.m., March 31 at St. Leo the Great Parish, 28290 Beaumont Road, Bonita Springs. During this Mass, Bishop Frank J. Dewane will bless the Holy Oils which are used in the administration of the Sacraments at each parish throughout the year. This most Holy Mass is one of the principal manifestations of the fullness of the Bishop’s Priesthood and is a sign of the close bond he shares with his brother priests, reinforcing their shared commitment to the pastoral mission, the faithful, and the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. The gathered priest will take part in the annual solemn Renewal of Priestly Promises. In addition, Priests and Deacons celebrating 25 and 50 years of Ordination are recognized at this Mass. All are encouraged to attend in support of our clergy and to participate in this important Holy Week celebration.

Holy Thursday (or Maundy Thursday), April 2, commemorates the institution of Communion during the Last Supper and the betrayal by Judas. At the Last Supper, on the night before Jesus Christ was crucified, he changed bread and wine into his own Body and Blood. It was there that He commanded the Apostles – and their successors through the centuries – to act in His stead. Therefore, at every Mass, by way of transubstantiation, the bread and wine consecrated by the priest becomes Christ’s Body and Blood.

In addition, just as Christ did for his Apostles at the Last Supper, during the Mass on Holy Thursday, the priest – who represents Christ (in persona Christi) – ceremoniously washes the feet of 12 people in the congregation. At the Holy Thursday liturgy in the Vatican, the Holy Father performs the foot washing.

After the Last Supper and before he was arrested and condemned to death, Jesus went to pray in the Garden of Gethsemane, accompanied by two of the disciples. With this in mind, after the Holy Thursday Mass, the remaining sacred hosts are carried out of the sanctuary to an “altar of repose,” and the faithful go with the Eucharistic Christ in a procession. People stay for a time, adoring the beautiful Sacrament that Jesus instituted that day 2,000 years ago.

Once the Mass of the Lord’s Supper is finished, the church – now without the Eucharist – is truly empty. The tabernacle light – which is always lit, signifying Christ’s presence – is extinguished, and the tabernacle door is left open, exposing the vacant space inside. The altar is stripped bare of its linens and candles, holy water is removed from the fonts, and the Sacraments are not celebrated until the Easter Vigil on Saturday night. It is not until the Resurrection of Jesus that the Church’s joy is restored.

Good Friday, April 3, represents the arrest, trial, crucifixion, death, and burial of Jesus Christ. The Good Friday Liturgy is not a Mass in the traditional sense, but is comprised of the celebration of the Passion, Veneration of the Cross and reception of Eucharist. Veneration of the Cross is the ultimate response to the Passion. At that time, we are called to behold Christ in his great act of love and we respond with loving veneration. Veneration of the Cross means loving service to the cross and taking up one’s cross and following Christ crucified. Everyone is asked to leave this liturgy in silence.

Many Parishes in the Diocese of Venice also offer the Stations of the Cross, a devotion which is centered on the Passion of Christ. While many Catholics pray the meditative prayer on their own throughout the year, it is an especially poignant experience during Holy Week, when the faithful join in recalling Jesus’ suffering and death. By praying the Stations of the Cross, a person makes a spiritual pilgrimage to the principal scenes of the Passion of the Lord, aided by artistic representations of those scenes.

Holy Week concludes on Holy Saturday, April 4, the Sabbath on which Jesus rested in the grave. No Masses are celebrated before dark on this day.

The Easter Vigil, on that holy night when the Lord rose again, is considered the “Mother of all Holy Vigils,” in which the Church, keeping watch, awaits the Resurrection of Christ and celebrates it in the Sacraments. The Liturgy begins in darkness, the Easter fire is kindled, the Paschal Candle is lit and brought into the darkened church with the proclamation that Christ is our Light.

During the liturgy, the faithful hear the story of our salvation proclaimed in numerous Scripture readings. During this celebration, a Renewal of Baptismal Promises is made. It is also at this time that the priest baptizes and confirms Catechumens. There are 434 Catechumens (those who are unbaptized) set to enter fully into the Catholic Faith in the Diocese of Venice through the reception of the Sacraments at the Easter Vigil celebration this year – a record number for the Diocese. In addition, there are 638 Candidates (already-baptized Christians preparing for confirmation and First Eucharist) who will receive Confirmation at their Parish during the Easter Season or at the Pentecost celebration on May 24.

This Great Vigil opens the Easter Season which will continue for 50 days and finds its conclusion in the Solemnity of Pentecost, May 24. The 50 days from the Sunday of the Resurrection to Pentecost Sunday are celebrated, “in joyful exultation, as one Feast Day, or better as one ‘Great Sunday.’”

Palm Sunday and Easter TV Mass to air at special times

The Televised Mass for the Homebound on Palm Sunday (March 29, 2026), and Easter Sunday (April 5 and celebrated by Bishop Frank J. Dewane), will air for a full hour on both Sundays. Because of the length, on these two Sundays the broadcast will air at a special time. For viewers in the northern portions of the Diocese (DeSoto, Hardee, Highlands, Manatee, and Sarasota counties), the Masses will air at noon on Tampa Bay 44. In the southern portions of the Diocese (Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry, Lee counties), the Masses will air at 8 a.m. on FOX Florida. Please check your cable provider for channel listings. The televised Mass is also always available online at dioceseofvenice.org or on YouTube. Visit dioceseofvenice.org/tvmass

for more information or contact Rachel Powers at powers@dioceseofvenice.org.

News Briefs for the week of March 6, 2026

Posted on March 6, 2026March 6, 2026 by Bob Reddy

TV Mass time change for southern area

Effective March 8, 2026, and going forward, the time for the Televised Mass for the Homebound for viewers in the southern counties of the Diocese (Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry, Lee counties), has been changed to 8:30 a.m. on WFTX-TV (FOX-4). The change was beyond the control of the Diocese. Please check your cable provider for channel listings. The televised Mass is also always available online at dioceseofvenice.org or on YouTube. Visit dioceseofvenice.org/tv for more information or contact Rachel Powers at powers@dioceseofvenice.org.

40 Days for Life Spring Campaign through March 29

The 40 days for Life Spring Campaign (from Ash Wednesday to Palm Sunday, March 29, 2026) aims to end abortion locally through prayer and fasting, community outreach, and a peaceful all-day vigil in front of abortion businesses. In the Diocese of Venice, 40 Days for Life campaigns are held in three locations: Sarasota – Daily from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m., 736 Central Ave., or visit https://www.40daysforlife.com/en/sarasota; Naples – Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m., 1425 Creech Road, or visit https://www.40daysforlife.com/en/naples; and Fort Myers – Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m., 6418 Commerce Park Drive, or visit https://www.40daysforlife.com/en/fortmyers.

Royal Rummage Sale XVIII March 7

The St. Mary, Star of the Sea Parish Women’s Guild presents Royal Rummage Sale XVIII, to be held in the Parish Hall, 4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. The early bird sale is 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., March 6, 2026, and the admission is $5. The regular sale, with free admission, is 9 a.m. – noon, March 7. Don’t miss out on the biggest and best rummage sale on Longboat Key which includes clothing, furniture, art, collectible, jewelry, housewares, linens, toys, electronics, books, and much more.

Lenten Days of Prayer at Retreat Center in March

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice offers a Monthly Day of Prayer, an opportunity to take time out of your busy and hectic life to focus on God. The next Day of Prayer is March 8 or 11, 2026, and is titled, “Lent Is My Highway to Heaven.” As part of an ongoing series of talks on Heaven, Father Greg Cleveland, OMV, OLPH Spiritual Director, will unpack the mystery of the Beatific Vision as the ultimate fulfillment of human longing. This talk invites you into the beauty, joy, and transformative love of seeing God “face to face,” where faith and reason give way to eternal happiness in Christ. No prior sessions are required – come as you are and be spiritually filled. The day begins at 9:30 a.m. with continental breakfast and includes two conferences, the opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, lunch, and Mass. There is time for adoration, private prayer, or meditation on the beautiful grounds as well. The day concludes at 3:15 p.m. The cost is $45. Register at www.olph-retreat.org/monthly-day-of-prayer

Fort Myers Parish retreat March 10

St. Francis Xavier Parish, 2157 Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers, is hosting a one-night Parish retreat, 6 – 8 p.m., March 10, 2026, featuring Father Leland Thorpe, OMV, of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice. Father Thorpe’s talk is titled: “10 Minutes to Change Your Life: The Examen Prayer of St. Ignatius of Loyola.” Learn how you can be transformed when you apply it to your daily life. There is no cost to attend. Bring family, friends, and neighbors. For more information, please call the Parish office at 239-334-2161.

Matt Talbot Men’s Spiritual Weekend Retreat March 13-15

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice is hosting a Matt Talbot retreat March 13-15, 2026. The retreat is for people of all faiths and is an opportunity for recovering alcoholics to enhance their spirituality and sober way of life. The people who attend these retreats also attend the 12-step program through AA. The Matt Talbot retreat is private and everything is confidential. Save the date for this upcoming retreat. Choose from a private room, or a shared, double occupancy room, or as a commuter (no room). $385 per retreatant for a private room, $275 per retreatant for a shared, double occupancy room or $195 per commuter. Register at www.olph-retreat.org.

Milestone Wedding Anniversary Mass March 14

An invitation is extended to all couples celebrating a milestone wedding anniversary (25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50 or more years) to join Bishop Frank J. Dewane for an Anniversary Mass in your honor. The Diocese of Venice hosts two Wedding Anniversary Masses each year (one in the northern part of the Diocese and the second in the southern part) to accommodate all. The first Mass in 2026 was Feb. 14 at St. Leo the Great Parish in Bonita Springs. The second Mass will be held March 14, 11:00 a.m., at St. Thomas More Parish, 2506 Gulf Gate Drive, Sarasota. A luncheon will follow the Mass. Photos with Bishop Dewane will also be provided for each couple. To register for the Anniversary Mass, please contact your local Parish office no later than one week before the Mass. For additional information contact Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseofvenice.org, or 941-484-4754.

Emerald Ball March 14 in Naples

The annual Catholic Charities Emerald Ball is 5:30 p.m., March 14, 2026, at the Ritz-Carlton Tiburon Golf Resort, 2600 Tiburon Drive, Naples. This event benefits the programs and services in Collier County, and this year programs supported will have an emphasis on access to mental health care. Tickets are $500, and are available at https://catholiccharitiesdov.org/events. For more information, call 239-455-2655 or email emeraldball@catholiccharitiesdov.org.

Faith & Wine and Faith & Ale joint event March 19

The annual joint gathering of Faith & Ale and Faith & Wine in Lee County will take place 6 – 8:30 p.m., March 19, 2026, at St. John XXIII Parish, 13060 Palomino Lane, Fort Myers. The guest speakers are Dan and Stephanie Burke. Dan is past president and COO of EWTN, while Stephanie hosts the Divine Intimacy radio show. The talk is titled “Spiritual Warfare and the Discernment of Spirits.” Faith & Wine is an outreach for uniting Catholic women of all backgrounds and ages to develop friendships and to support one another as they apply the Gospel to their lives. Faith & Ale is a Catholic Men’s Apostolate in Southwest Florida that offers monthly gatherings of Catholic men promoting fellowship and growth in faith. Tickets are $25. Doors open at 6 p.m. with dinner to follow. Program begins at approximately 6:45 p.m. and ends at approximately 8:30 p.m. Register https://faithandale.com/. For more information, email faithandalefortmyers@gmail.com.

Marriage Prep retreats/seminars coming soon

Marriage Preparation Retreats are required by the Diocese of Venice for those couples preparing for Sacramental Marriage in the Catholic Church. The retreat’s purpose is to enable couples to become more aware of the privileges and responsibility of marriage. The next two of many Marriage Retreats in 2026 are March 21, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice, and June 20 at St. John the Evangelist Parish in Naples. Additionally, the Two Become One Marriage Retreat prepares couples 55 and older who are planning for the Sacrament of Marriage or convalidation in the Catholic Church. The next Two Become One Marriage Retreat is May 2, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice. Registration is required for all retreats at https://dioceseofvenice.regfox.com/2026-day-of-reflection-mp-retreat. Couples unable to attend an in-person retreat may contact the Diocesan Marriage Prep office to register for the online version. Please contact Jim Gontis at 941- 486-4754 or gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

CPCI Gala March 28

Support Life! Join Community Pregnancy Clinics (CPCI) for an evening of hope and inspiration at the “Heart of the Community Gala,” 5 p.m. March 28, 2026, at the Ritz-Carton Tiburon, 2600 Tiburon Drive, Naples. Begin with a cocktail reception and fellowship alongside other dedicated advocates, followed by a delicious dinner, paddle-raise fundraiser, and a powerful keynote address from Matt Walsh, a renowned filmmaker, author, and pro-life voice. The cost is $500 per person. Tickets are available at www.supportcpci.com.

Diocesan-wide Reconciliation times March 27-28

Please note that the precept of confessing grave sins and receiving Holy Communion, at least once during the Lenten Season, merits a reminder. To facilitate this requirement, in addition to regular Parish Confession hours, every Parish in the Diocese of Venice will be open with a confessor present 4 – 8 p.m., March 27, 2026, and 9 a.m. – noon, March 28. These opportunities are made available so that the faithful may find ample opportunity to receive God’s Mercy in the Sacrament of Reconciliation during the Lenten Season.

Magnificat breakfast March 28

Be Blessed and Encouraged at the next Magnificat breakfast for women, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., March 28, 2026, at the Crowne Plaza Fort Myers Gulf Coast. The speaker is Kathy Corona, a woman of deep faith who will share her spiritual journey. Join for breakfast, fellowship, and worship to hear her inspiring testimony of Jesus Christ’s love and healing! Reservations can be made online until noon, March 24 at https://magnificatfortmyers.com/order-tickets/. For more information, contact Margaret Mengle, 239-826-7475.

Palm Sunday and Easter TV Mass to air at special times

The Televised Mass for the Homebound on Palm Sunday (March 29, 2026), and Easter Sunday (April 5 and celebrated by Bishop Frank J. Dewane), will air for a full hour on both Sundays. Because of the length, the time of the broadcast on these two Sunday will air at a special time. For viewers in the northern portions of the Diocese (DeSoto, Hardee, Highlands, Manatee, and Sarasota counties), the Masses will air at 10:30 a.m. on the CW Network. In the southern portions of the Diocese (Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry, Lee counties), the Masses will air at 8 a.m. on WFTX-TV (FOX-4). Please check your cable provider for channel listings. The televised Mass is also always available online at dioceseofvenice.org or on YouTube. Visit dioceseofvenice.org/tv for more information or contact Rachel Powers at powers@dioceseofvenice.org.

Chrism Mass March 31 in Bonita Springs

The Chrism Mass, which takes place during Holy Week every year, will be held 10:30 a.m., March 31, 2026, at St. Leo the Great Parish, 28290 Beaumont Road, Bonita Springs. During this Mass, Bishop Frank J. Dewane will bless the Holy Oils which are used in the administration of the Sacraments at each parish throughout the year. Priests and Deacons celebrating 25 and 50 years of Ordination are recognized at this Mass.

Priests celebrating 50 years: Father Edward Blackwell, Father Vincente Clemente, Father Lawrence Esposito, Father Francis Hanlon, OSFS, Father Thomas Heck, Father Michael Orsi, and Father Timothy Sheedy.
Priests celebrating 25 years: Father Lorenzo Gonzalez, Father Philip Joly, Father Jacek Mazur, Father David Pignato, Father Philip Scheff, and Father David Vidal.
Deacon celebrating 25 years: Deacon Gary Ingold.

All are encouraged to attend in support of our clergy and to participate in this important Holy Week celebration.

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. $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.

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 Missionary Opportunity for Summer 2026 Now Open

Could the Lord be calling you? The Diocese of Venice is inviting college-age young adults to apply to serve as Totus Tuus Missionaries for the Diocese’s Parish Catechetical Summer Totus Tuus Camps. As a Totus Tuus Missionary, you will be an authentic witness to Christ’s love, teach the Catholic faith to children and youth, and grow in leadership, community, and your personal relationship with Christ. Many missionaries describe Totus Tuus as one of the most meaningful and life-changing experiences of their lives, a summer where faith deepens, friendships grow, and God’s call becomes clearer. Don’t miss this unique opportunity! Apply today! To apply, visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/562S8YS. Applicants must be 18 years of age or older, and available from May 20 through July 31, 2026. For further information, contact Andres Prias, Diocesan Director of Youth & Young Adult Ministry, at prias@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-441-1122.

Catholic Charities offers Mental Health Counseling Services

Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice is offering mental health counseling, including tele-health, for adults and children provided by licensed mental health therapists. If you or someone you know is feeling stressed, anxious, depressed, helpless, or overwhelmed, Catholic Charities can help. For more information on this service, please call 239-455-2655 or visit Catholic Charities online: www.catholiccharitiesdov.org.

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 to do pastoral outreach, 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.

EASTER: Spreading the Good News of the power of Light over Darkness

Posted on April 29, 2025April 29, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Throughout the Universal Church the faithful gathered for a joyous celebration on Easter; that is the Resurrection of Our Lord, the Summit of the Catholic Faith.

This celebration comes after the holiest of weeks which began with the entrance of Jesus into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday and included the suffering and death of Our Lord. The Resurrection on Easter completes the journey for Jesus when death was conquered. This moment marks the beginning of a new journey of belief and hope for all the faithful, Bishop Frank J. Dewane said during the Easter Vigil Mass, April 19, 2025, at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice.

“Humanity has never really known a single night so powerful as tonight, during this Easter Vigil – so majestic, so holy – the greatest night, when the power of death is conquered,” Bishop Dewane said. “Our Faith flows from our belief in the Resurrection. Christ’s victory over sin and death means new life for us all – from darkness to light, from suffering to joy. Easter is the proof of God’s love for humanity.”

The Easter Vigil, which takes place after sunset on Holy Saturday night, “is the greatest and most noble of all solemnities and it is to be unique in every single Church,” according to the Roman Missal. At Epiphany Cathedral, the Vigil began in darkness before the Easter fire was kindled and the Paschal (Passover) Candle was lit, and then carried down the main aisle by a Deacon, into the darkened church with the proclamation that Christ is our Light.

The Gospel reading tells of the three women who went to the tomb of Jesus to complete the anointing of Jesus’ body properly, even though they knew a great stone was in their way. The women were carried by their faith, hope and love for Jesus Christ because following a great darkness, the sun had risen that Easter morning.

“We must continually grow closer to the Lord, seeking His help, and proclaiming that He is risen,” Bishop Dewane said. “By living faith, hope, and love, in our own lives, just as those women did, the stones which keep us from the Lord will be moved out of our way, because we are each called to enter into the tomb and be with Christ, seeing, understanding and expressing that belief each day.”

During this Mass, the faithful heard Salvation history proclaimed in numerous Scripture readings. It is also at this time when the Bishop/priests confer the Sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation for the catechumens and candidates. At Parishes throughout the Diocese of Venice, there were 552 women and men who entered fully into the Catholic Church, a huge number for a Diocese the size of Venice. Among that number are 13 Diocesan Catholic school students and four Catholic school faculty.

At Epiphany Cathedral, Bishop Dewane presided over one baptism, while a group of 14 were confirmed. The Bishop lauded the catechumen and candidates for having the courage and strength to hear the call of the Lord in their lives and respond in a definitive way.

“We must all act with strength and courage in response to the call of the Lord in our lives,” Bishop Dewane said. “We have each been given graces and with that we must live our lives to the fullest. We do this as the apostles and the early Christians did, building the Church we are all a part of today. We must do our part to build up His Church. This Church is not perfect. It falters because it is human and divine. It is the divine that will keep it alive. That is what we celebrate at Easter.”

The newly confirmed at Epiphany Cathedral could not hold back their excitement upon receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation at the Easter Vigil. Sarah Desquesnes, who received three sacraments, baptism, confirmation and First Holy Communion, couldn’t stop smiling because of the overwhelming joy and love of Christ she felt come upon her during the Mass.

The celebration of Easter is not confined to a single day, in fact, throughout the next 50 days the Easter Season is celebrated “in joyful exultation as one Feast Day, or better as one ‘great Sunday.’”

The first days make up the Octave of Easter and are celebrated as solemnities of the Lord. On the 40th day of the Easter Season, Catholics celebrate the Ascension of the Lord (May 29, which is moved to the following Sunday on June 1 in most Dioceses in the U.S., including the Diocese of Venice), and for the nine days following, in preparation for the coming of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost (June 8).

Catholic schools inspire new Catholics

Posted on April 29, 2025April 29, 2025 by Bob Reddy

An amazing thing took place this year at Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers – 12 students have decided to fully enter the Catholic Church, 5 at the Easter Vigil.

The students are among 552 catechumens and candidates who have gone through the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults in the Diocese and will be fully entered into the Church by Pentecost (June 8, 2025).

At Bishop Verot, the school has an active afterschool program to offer basic religious instruction to interested students. This is made available because not all students at Bishop Verot are Catholic, and even those who are might not be practicing or may not have received all the sacraments beyond baptism or First Holy Communion.

Jonathan Gadomski, Verot Director of Campus Ministry said there have been one or two students a year who have fully entered the Church in the past. However, in the early parts of the 2024-2025 academic year more students than ever expressed interest and now the 12 have completed their instruction. “It was really wonderful to see.”

Meeting after school once a week, and more often as needed, the number of interested students grew rapidly. The 8 graduating seniors pointed to the Live Jesus Retreat, which opens each school year, as a catalyst that tipped the balance for some to make further inquiries about the Catholic faith.

Isabella Lentz said the retreat focused on building character and how to live your life, something that really motivated her to take action and become a doer of her faith. “It really opened my mind.”

The Verot after-school program is done in conjunction with the students’ home Parishes. Gadomski said each student must register with a Parish religious education program and this is where much of their religious instruction takes place. The school supplements this effort and helps support students through their discernment process.

“We are here as a resource and can quickly answer any questions the students have,” Gadomski said. “Our weekly meeting parallels what they are learning at the Parish and their individual theology classes support that experience as well.”

Sophia Gebara was born Catholic but didn’t practice because her parents allowed her to make a choice about her own faith. Throughout her time at Verot, Sophia said she learned more about her faith in theology classes and decided the time was right to go ahead with the process of entering the Church.

Not knowing where to begin her discernment, Sophia said it was the support from the Campus Ministry team which helped her make the decision to fully enter the Church by going to the Sacrament of Reconciliation, receiving First Holy Communion and being confirmed. “The teachers were great at explaining everything. This was the right decision for me, and I feel relieved and blessed that this day has come.”

With the help of the different theology teachers, plus the enthusiastic support of Chaplain Father David Portorreal and other assisting priests, each of the students was able to make their first confession at the school.

The good news does not end at Bishop Verot, as one student at Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School in Sarasota, and four faculty at St. Ann Catholic School in Naples also entered the Church during the Easter Vigil.

The 12 students at Verot are not the only ones who entered the Church through Diocesan Catholic schools. Also entering was a student at Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School in Sarasota, and four faculty from St. Ann Catholic School in Naples.

Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocese of Venice Superintendent of Catholic Education, said he was ecstatic when he heard the news about the 12 Bishop Verot students, and one Cardinal Mooney student, entering the Church.

“That great news from Bishop Verot was followed by learning about the student from Cardinal Mooney and then four of our faculty who are entering the faith,” Father Belmonte said. “Jesus Christ is truly working wonders in the Diocese of Venice Catholic Schools! We are blessed and grateful!”

2025 Easter Triduum celebrated in Diocese

Posted on April 29, 2025April 29, 2025 by Bob Reddy

The single celebration of the Triduum marks the end of the Lenten Season and leads to the Mass of the Resurrection of the Lord at the Easter Vigil.

The liturgical services that take place during the Triduum are:

Mass of the Lord’s Supper
Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion (Good Friday)
Mass of the Resurrection of the Lord (Easter Vigil)

Thousands of the faithful of the Diocese of Venice gathered at Parishes for the celebration of the Triduum, April 17-19, 2025.

The Mass of the Lord’s Supper at St. Catherine Parish in Sebring included the commemoration when Jesus Christ instituted the Sacrament of Holy Communion prior to His arrest and crucifixion. It also observes His institution of the priesthood. This Liturgy included the presentation of the oils blessed and consecrated by Bishop Frank J. Dewane during the April 15 Chrism Mass, at St. John the Evangelist Parish in Naples, which will be used for the Sacraments in the Parishes throughout the year. Later was the traditional washing of the feet, reenacting Jesus washing the feet of the Disciples. Following the Prayer after Communion, the Mass concluded with a procession to transfer the Holy Eucharist to a place of repose in the Parish Hall. This action left the tabernacle vacant until the Easter Vigil.

On Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion, the faithful at St. Katharine Drexel Parish in Cape Coral participated in the liturgy. This celebration is not a Mass, as the hosts offered at Communion were consecrated on Holy Thursday. The liturgy included the reading of the Passion from the Gospel of John. Next was the presentation of the cross, brought forth by the priest and unveiled as the priest sang: “This is the wood of the cross, on which hung the salvation of the world,” and the congregation responded: “Come let us adore.” The faithful were then encouraged to venerate the cross. The cross at St. Katharine Drexel was brought to each section of the church and the faithful came forward and venerated by a touch, a bow, or a genuflection.

Either prior to, or after, the Good Friday Liturgy, many Parishes hosted the Stations of the Cross, sometimes led by children or including a dramatic retelling, often by Catholic school students.

For the second year in a row, a public Stations of the Cross took place in downtown Venice, starting at Epiphany Cathedral and proceeding into nearby Centennial Park and then down Venice Avenue. Approximately 500 took part, including members of the youth group, as the streets were temporarily blocked for the occasion. In addition, faithful from St. Martha, St. Patrick, St. Thomas More, Incarnation, St. Jude and Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Parishes Sarasota took part in the annual Sarasota Ministerial Association Good Friday Stations of the Cross on Main Street. More than 1,000 participated with several Catholic priests and deacons leading the readings at the different stations.

On Holy Saturday, the only Mass of the day is the Easter Vigil. This is also the day when many of the faithful have Easter Baskets blessed. These baskets are filled with food to be served on Easter Sunday and candies to be given to children. At San Pedro Parish in North Port, nearly 500 baskets were brought to the altar steps to be blessed. Father Nathan Marzione, OMV, offered the blessing in both Polish and English.

On Easter Sunday, several Parishes celebrated Mass at sunrise while extra Masses were added to accommodate the increased numbers common for this holiest of days.

Many Parishes also hosted fun for children which often included Easter egg hunts either on the Saturday or following a Children’s Liturgy on Sunday.

EASTER: Spreading the Good News of the Risen Lord

Posted on April 10, 2024 by Bob Reddy

Throughout the Universal Church the faithful gathered for a joyous celebration on Easter; that is the Resurrection of Our Lord, the Summit of the Catholic Faith.

This celebration comes after the holiest of weeks which began with the entrance of Jesus to Jerusalem on Palm Sunday and included the suffering and death of Our Lord. The Resurrection on Easter completes the journey for Jesus when death was conquered. This moment marks the beginning of a new journey of belief and hope for all the faithful, Bishop Frank J. Dewane said during the Easter Vigil Mass, March 30, 2024, at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice.

“Humanity has never really known a single night so powerful as tonight, during this Easter Vigil – so majestic, so holy – the greatest night, when the power of death is conquered,” Bishop Dewane said. “This is the night of keeping vigil as we wait for the Lord. This is the night of the new Adam, and of the New Covenant.”

The Easter Vigil, which takes place on Holy Saturday night, “is the greatest and most noble of all solemnities and it is to be unique in every single Church,” according to the Roman Missal. The Vigil began in darkness before the Easter fire was kindled and the Paschal (Passover) Candle was lit, and then proceeded down the main aisle, carried by a Deacon, into the darkened church with the proclamation that Christ is our Light.

The Gospel reading tells of the three women who went to the tomb of Jesus to complete the anointing of Jesus’ body properly, even though they knew a great stone was in their way, they were carried by their faith, hope and love for Jesus Christ because following a great darkness, the sun had risen that Easter morning.

During this Mass, the faithful hear the story of Salvation proclaimed in numerous Scripture readings. It is also at this time when the Bishop/priests confer the Sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation for the Catechumens and Candidates. At Parishes throughout the Diocese of Venice, there were 662 women and men who entered fully into the Catholic Church, a record number for the Diocese.

One of these candidates was Shawn Marren, who first received the Sacrament of Confirmation and then the Sacrament of First Holy Communion from Bishop Dewane at Epiphany Cathedral.

Marren was emotional when he received his First Holy Communion. He explained that this moment meant a great deal to him having studied and learned the origin of the Real Presence in the Most Holy Eucharist. His journey toward becoming Catholic started a few years ago while filling in as an organist at the Cathedral. Marren was fascinated by the Most Holy Eucharist and the homilies offered during Masses. He then asked questions of Cathedral Rector Msgr. Patrick Dubois and was directed to read early Church teachings.

“I had never read pre-Reformation texts and my eyes were opened to the Catholic faith, and how the Real Presence in the Most Holy Eucharist lives to this day,” Marren said. “I feel truly blessed.”

The first days make up the Octave of Easter and are celebrated as solemnities of the Lord. On the 40th day of the Easter Season, Catholics celebrate the Ascension of the Lord (May 9, which is moved to the following Sunday on May 12 in most Diocese in the U.S., including the Diocese of Venice), and for the nine days following, prepare for the coming of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost (May 19).

Easter Triduum celebrated in Diocese

Posted on April 10, 2024 by Bob Reddy

The summit of the Liturgical Year is the Easter Triduum (March 28-31, 2024) — from the evening of Holy Thursday to the evening of Easter Sunday. Though chronologically three days, they are liturgically one day unfolding for us the unity of Christ’s Paschal Mystery.

The single celebration of the Triduum marks the end of the Lenten Season, and leads to the Mass of the Resurrection of the Lord at the Easter Vigil.

The liturgical services that take place during the Triduum are:

Mass of the Lord’s Supper (Holy Thursday)
Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion (Good Friday)
Mass of the Resurrection of the Lord (Easter Vigil)

Thousands of the faithful of the Diocese of Venice gathered at Parishes for the celebration of the Triduum.

The Mass of the Lord’s Supper at Our Lady of Grace Parish in Avon Park included the commemoration when Jesus Christ established the Sacrament of Holy Communion prior to His arrest and crucifixion. It also observes His institution of the priesthood. This Liturgy included the presentation of the oils blessed and consecrated by Bishop Frank J. Dewane during the March 26 Chrism Mass, at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice, which will be used for the Sacraments in the Parish throughout the year. Later was the traditional washing of the feet, reenacting Jesus washing the feet of the Disciples. Following the Prayer after Communion, the Mass concluded with a procession to transfer the Holy Eucharist to a place of repose in the Parish Hall. This action left the tabernacle vacant until the Easter Vigil.

On Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion, the faithful at St. John the Evangelist Parish in Naples participated in the Liturgy which included the reading of the Passion from the Gospel of John. Next was the presentation of the cross, brought forth by the priest and unveiled as the priest sang: “This is the wood of the cross, on which hung the salvation of the world,” and the congregation responded: “Come let us adore.” The faithful were then encouraged to come forward to venerate the cross. This was done by either touching, bowing, or genuflecting.

Either prior to, or after, the Good Friday Liturgy, many Parishes hosted the Stations of the Cross, sometimes led by children or including a dramatic retelling.

For example, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Immokalee, the Living Stations began in a field behind the Parish church, and then travelled through the neighborhood. The Stations were inclusive to include the languages of the Parish (Spanish, English and Creole). By the time the procession returned to the Parish the crowd had swelled into the thousands.

For the first time, a public Stations of the Cross took place in downtown Venice, starting at Epiphany Cathedral and proceeding into nearby Centennial Park and then down Venice Avenue. Approximately 800 took part, including members of the youth group, as streets were temporarily blocked.

On Holy Saturday, the only Mass of the day is the Easter Vigil

On Easter Sunday, several Parishes celebrated Mass at sunrise while extra Masses were added to accommodate the increased numbers common for this holiest of days.

Many Parishes also hosted fun for children which often included Easter egg hunts either on the Saturday or following a Children’s Liturgy on Sunday.

Chrism Mass – Symbol of Unity – Renewal of Priestly Promises; Consecration and Blessing of Holy Oils

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

Bishop Frank J. Dewane was joined by more than 150 priests from across the Diocese for the annual Chrism Mass March 26, 2024, at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice.

The Chrism Mass, which the Bishop concelebrates with priests from throughout the Diocese and during which he consecrates the sacred Chrism and blesses the other oils, is among the principal manifestations of the fullness of the Bishop’s Priesthood and is considered to be a sign of the close bond between the Priests and their Bishop. For it is with the sacred Chrism consecrated by the Bishop that the priests are ordained, the newly baptized are anointed, and those to be confirmed are signed. It is with the Oil of Catechumens that catechumens are prepared and disposed for Baptism. Finally, it is with the Oil of the Sick that those who are ill are comforted in their infirmity.

This celebration, which was witnessed by more than 1,000 of the faithful, including 350 students from Diocesan Catholic schools, is an expression of unity of the priests with their Shepherd, the Bishop of the Diocese.

The celebration not only brings into focus the historical context of the priesthood by the renewal of Priestly Promises, but also presents an opportunity for the priests to recall their ordination and to reflect upon their ongoing priestly vocation. Having all the priests of the Diocese come together at the Chrism Mass, united with their Bishop, on the eve of the Easter Triduum, reminds priests of their calling to act in the person of Christ – in persona Christi. This is the largest annual gathering of the clergy for the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.

“The Chrism Mass highlights the role and responsibility of the ordained in relationship with their Bishop, but primarily in their relationship to God and to Jesus Christ in offering that eternal sacrifice at the table of the Lord,” Bishop Dewane said. “My brothers, our hands were and remain anointed with the oil of Chrism, the same Chrism that will be instituted today; may Jesus always preserve you to sanctify the Christian people and in the Holy Office, in sacrifice to God.”

The anointed hands of a priest are sacramental instruments that baptize, confirm, bless, absolve sin, consecrate, offer the Bread of Life, the Chalice of Salvation; they are sacramental instruments that touch heads who ask for a blessing and at the end of life, open the door to eternity for many.

“Those are the instruments the Lord gives us,” Bishop Dewane said. “St. Teresa of Avila emphasized this point, saying, ‘Christ has no hands on earth but yours.’ Your hands are important in that role. They pray, they labor, they offer compassion and peace to those you meet. The anointed hands have been further consecrated, use them carefully for what God wants.”

While the priesthood can be challenging, the Bishop said that the heart of the priest “pulsates the lifeblood of the Body of Christ, the Church, keeping Her alive, active and sacred. Let it be part of who you are. That beating heart; let it be for Christ in every way.”

Pope Francis said the grace of the priesthood is for service, not for glory, as there is no recompense greater for a priest than the friendship with Jesus Christ. Seeking one’s own glory robs the priest, and ultimately the faithful, of the presence of Christ.

“We must all be careful of not letting our hearts and hands get numb to the repeated exercise of our service, but recognize them as a blessing and grace for those whom we serve,” Bishop Dewane said. “Be men of a priestly heart, so the faithful can approach and listen to you, as they yearn to be faithful themselves. Let them feel the presence of the Lord, through you as a priest, while they seek your companionship on their spiritual journey.”

During the Chrism Mass, Bishop Dewane recognized the seven Priests and four Permanent Deacons who are celebrating the 25th and 50th anniversaries of their ordination for their years of service to Christ and Holy Mother Church. Bishop Dewane also recognized Father Celestino Gutierrez, who is marking his 60th anniversary as a priest in 2024 and recently retired as founding Pastor of St. Jude Parish in Sarasota.

In attendance for this special occasion were religious men and women; Diocesan seminarians; Knights and Dames of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem; Knights and Dames of the Sovereign Order of Malta; the Knights of Columbus, including those of the Color Corps; members of the Venice Diocesan Council of Catholic Women; students from Diocesan Catholic schools; as well as the faithful of the Diocese of Venice.

Sacred Chrism Oil

The Chrism Mass takes its name from the sacred Chrism oil, the most eminent of the three holy oils, which the Bishop consecrates and blesses for use by Parishes of the Diocese. Bishop Dewane referred to the Gospel message which described the oils as being the oil of gladness, which represent the indelible mark each bestows.

The Oil of the Sick, used for those who seek anointing, and the Oil of the Catechumens, which is imposed on those preparing for baptism, are blessed, by the Bishop at different times during the Chrism Mass. The sacred Chrism is both blessed and consecrated. The verb “consecrate” is applied to the action of making holy the chrism and indicates its use to spiritually separate, sanctify and purify its recipients.

For the blessing and consecration of the sacred Chrism oil, the initial motion is to pour balsam into the oil, and then this is mixed. The balsam is added so that it gives the oil a sweet smell intended to remind those who encounter it of the “odor of sanctity.” All of the Faithful are called to strive for sanctity. Next, the Bishop breathes on the Sacred Chrism “to symbolize the Holy Spirit coming down.” At a particular point in the consecratory prayer for the Sacred Chrism, all the priests join the Bishop in extending their right hand toward the Chrism, as the Bishop concludes the prayer.

After Mass, the oils were given to each Pastor to use in their Parish throughout the Liturgical Year.

Priest and Deacon Jubilarians

A reception was held in the Parish Hall following the Mass to honor Priests and Deacons celebrating their jubilee in 2024.

Reverend Mark Svarczkopf spoke for the golden jubilarians. Father Svarczkopf is originally from the Archdiocese of Indianapolis and currently assists in the Eastern Deanery of the Diocese of Venice, primarily at St. Michael Parish in Wauchula, but also at St. Catherine in Sebring, Our Lady of Grace in Avon Park and St. James in Lake Placid. Father said a key part of being a priest is having the grace to soften the hardest of hearts.

Father Anthony Hewitt spoke on behalf of the silver jubilarians. Father Hewitt spoke about the importance of Holy Week to priests. “The totality and the very reason we exist on this planet – Jesus Christ – that Holy Hour where He goes to glorify His Heavenly Father; where He goes to die and rise on Easter Sunday.” Father prayed that the faithful find the beauty of the Paschal Triduum, because many “don’t see the joy of Holy Thursday; the magnificent beauty and the glory that is Good Friday; and they never ever come to Easter Vigil.” Father Hewitt is currently Pastor at Our Lady of Mercy Parish in Boca Grande.

Also celebrating 50 years were Father Richard Bondi, who assists at Ave Maria Parish and University in Ave Maria; and Father Brian Manning, who assists at St. John the Evangelist Parish in Naples. Additional priest silver jubilarians were Father Victor Caviedes, who is Parochial Vicar at St. Jude Parish in Sarasota; Father Anthonio Jean, who is Parochial Vicar at Sacred Heart Parish in Bradenton; and Father Jayabalan (Jay) Raju, Administrator of St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers.

Deacon Michael Leahy, a golden jubilarian, is retired. Celebrating their silver jubilees are Deacon Edward Gwiazda, who assists at St. Raphael Parish in Lehigh Acres; Deacon William Hickey, who assists at Our Lady of the Angels Parish in Lakewood Ranch; and Deacon Alfred Mauriello, who assists at St. Finbarr Parish in Naples.