Bishop inspects Cathedral renovation work
Bishop Frank J. Dewane had the opportunity on Jan. 13, 2026, to get a close-up inspection of the ongoing renovation of Epiphany Cathedral in Venice. The tour was part of a regularly scheduled contractor update to review the progress of the work and to address any issues. The renovations at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice are making great progress with significant milestones reached in recent months including the beginning of the installation of the marble around the altar and the near completion of the major roof work. Bishop Dewane expressed his pleasure at the progress of the work, which addressed many of the structural needs that required the work to be done in the first place, as well as forming the renovated building to conform to the liturgical and pastoral needs of a Cathedral. The Diocese of Venice is funding 50% of the project’s cost. Epiphany Cathedral’s parishioners, and contributions from all the other Diocesan Parishes combined, will cover the remainder of the cost. To learn more about the differences between a Cathedral and a Parish Church, and for regular renovation updates, visit: www.epiphanycathedral.org/renovation. To donate to the Epiphany Cathedral project, please visit www.epiphanycathedral.org/capital-campaign. Several unique naming opportunities are now available!
Many lessons learned from reading
Students in eighth grade at Incarnation Catholic School in Sarasota simulated a mile walk to a mock watering hole to collect water for their families on Jan. 14, 2026. This was a project completed in conjunction with their reading the novel “A Long Walk to Water,” by Linda Sue Park. The object of the project was to teach the students empathy and compassion for those who do not have access to clean drinking water. Before the walk, students did activities to calculate the amount of water they and their household use every day so that they could greater appreciate the great gift of clean water.
Farm visit opens eyes of Naples students
Third -grade students from St. Ann Catholic School in Naples visited Farmer Mike’s on Jan. 14, 2026, in an effort to bring their science lessons to life. As part of studying photosynthesis, seedless plants, and the parts of a plant, the students explored how plants grow, get energy from the sun, and provide food for people and animals. This great opportunity helped the students turn science into a hands-on, unforgettable experience!
Mooney football star named All-American
Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School senior defensive end Elijah Golden has been named a Rivals First Team All-American for the second straight season – cementing his place among the most decorated players in Cardinal Mooney history. Elijah had 67 tackles, including 14 sacks during the 2025 season, including three sacks in the Dec. 10 Class 2A state championship game. He was also a part of the 2023 state champion team. Elijiah has committed to play football at the next level at the University of Notre Dame.
Called by Name Campaign
Is God calling you, or someone you know, to the priesthood? If someone you know is a young man of faith and service, offer support and encouragement by submitting his name to the Called by Name campaign! The campaign is an effort by the Diocese of Venice in Florida to offer support to men whom God may be calling to the priesthood. For more information about the program, or to submit the name(s) of someone who could be one of our future priests, please visit https://venicevocations.net/called/, or contact Father Alex Pince, Diocesan Director of Vocations at pince@dioceseofvenice.org.
Catholic Charities Annual Christmas Appeal continues
The Annual Catholic Charities Christmas Appeal is underway and needs your support! The Christmas Appeal continues through January 2026 and is Catholic Charities’ largest annual fundraiser, critical to operating this social service organization. Gifts provide funding for the many Catholic Charities programs and services available throughout Southwest Florida. Your generosity enables Catholic Charities to serve those seeking help all year long. To donate please mail a contribution to Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34285, or visit https://catholiccharitiesdov.org/donate.
Human trafficking awareness training in Fort Myers Jan. 29 and North Port Feb. 5
January is National Human Trafficking Awareness Month and Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice, Inc., is offering two awareness training opportunities. The first is 10 a.m. – noon, Jan. 29, 2026, at Resurrection of Our Lord Parish, 8121 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers, and then 11:30 a.m., Feb. 5, in the Activities Center of San Pedro Parish, 14380 Tamiami Trail, North Port. Both interactive sessions will be led by Alex Olivares, Catholic Charities Regional Director, and will help participants identify potential survivors, understanding the different forms of trafficking, and learn how and when to report concerns. The Catholic Charities team has provided services to more than 250 victims of human trafficking in the region. There is no cost to attend either session. If you have any questions, about the Fort Myers training please call 941-525-6567 or email npozo@ccdov.org. For information about and to register for the North Port training, please call 941-426-2500, ext. 106, or email seniorlife@sanpedrocc.org.
Opportunities still available to join one of four Diocesan Parishes offering Catholic women’s programs
There are still opportunities to join one of the tour Diocesan Parishes who have started a free Catholic women’s program which began this month. She Shall Be Called Woman (SHE) is a place for Catholic women who want to be truly known and loved on their journey with the Lord. This program features different topics of study each season, designed to educate and foster deep sisterhood and spiritual growth through talks, discussion, and prayer. Parishes in the Diocese of Venice currently hosting the program include Epiphany Cathedral Parish, Venice, contact Elise Filbrandt, 616-446-5902; St. Frances Cabrini Parish, Parrish, contact Mary Jo Chronis, 941-776-9097, ext. 209; San Pedro Parish, North Port, contact Kristin McCombie, 941-204-0660; St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Grove City, contact Shauna Haggerty, 210-857-8833. For more information or to join, contact one of the participating Parishes, or Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseofvenice.org. The programs continues through April.
Pig Roast in North Port Jan. 31
San Pedro Parish, 14380 Tamiami Trail, North Port, is hosting a Pig Roast, Jan. 31, 2026. The pig roast includes food, fun and dancing, including live entertainment. Doors open at 2 p.m., with the pig roast from 5-7 p.m. (chicken is also offered). Tickets are $50. For tickets, please visit https://sanpedrocc.org/, or for more information, email events@sanpedrocc.org.
9th annual Blue Mass Jan. 31
St. Agnes Parish, 7500 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples, is hosting the 9th annual Blue Mass for law enforcement, firefighters, and first responders at 11 a.m., Jan. 31, 2026. Father Steve Angi, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati and Chaplain for the Cincinnati Police and Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department. All are welcome to honor the sacrifice of those dedicated to serving the community. A reception will follow in the Parish Hall.
Pints with a Priest Jan. 31 in Naples
Catholic singles in their 30s, 40s and 50s are invited on Jan. 31, 2026, to “The Vocation to Love: God’s Plan for the Single Seeking Marriage,” featuring Father Jacob Gwynn, Parochial Vicar at St. John the Evangelist Parish. The event will be from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Bone Hook Brewery, 1514 Immokalee Rd, Unit 106 in Naples. No need to register.
Human trafficking talk Feb. 2
Sgt. Charles Ciulla, Fort Myers Police Dept., and former member of the Dept. of Homeland Security Investigations Inter-Agency Child Exploitation and Persons Trafficking Task Force, will be leading an important anti-human trafficking awareness session Feb. 2, 2026, 6:30 p.m., St. Francis Xavier Parish Hall, 2050 Heitman St., Fort Myers. Sgt. Ciulla’s talk is titled “Understanding the Signs: How to Recognize and Prevent Human Trafficking.” The officer will share real-life cases and speak about how these crimes impact our community and how to recognize the signs and prevent human trafficking. All are welcome. Be a part of the solution.
Naples Parish author event Feb. 3
St. William Parish, 601 Seagate Drive, Naples, is hosting an Author Event, featuring Mallory Smyth, author and podcaster, at 10 a.m., Feb. 3, 2026. Smyth’s talk is titled, “Divine Revelation: How Praying with Scripture Changes Everything.” A reception and book signing will follow the presentation.
Fashion Show and Luncheon in Naples Feb. 6
The St. William Parish Council of Catholic Women invites you to join them for their annual Fashion Show and Luncheon on Feb. 6, 2026, in the Church Hall at 750 Seagate Drive, Naples. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. and guests will be greeted with a bubbly reception, followed by a catered lunch by ‘Delicious by Design’ and a fashion show presented by Kay’s on the Beach. There will be door prizes, raffle baskets and a 50/50 raffle. Proceeds will benefit Community Pregnancy Clinics, Providence House, St. Vincent de Paul Society, Saint William HOPE, Sunlight Home, St. Matthew’s House and the CCW Scholarship Fund for Catholic Education. Tickets are $80 per person and can be purchased at https://tinyurl.com/38m4rjsw. For more information contact: Pauline Rota at 732-570-7461 or prota184@gmail.com.
Catholic Charities Ball Feb. 7 on Longboat Key
The annual Catholic Charities Ball is 6 p.m., Feb. 7, 2026, at the St. Regis Longboat Key Resort, 1601 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. The black-tie gala benefits the programs and services in Sarasota County. Tickets are $500. For tickets, please visit https://catholiccharitiesdov.org/events. For more information, call 941-294-9400 or email CCBall@ccdov.org.
2026 Diocese of Venice Eucharistic Missionary Conference
After a three-year effort to reignite faith in, and reverence for, the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist, it is time for us to look at another dimension: that of becoming more fully Eucharistic Missionaries. Join us for the Diocese of Venice Eucharistic Missionary Conference 8 a.m. – 3 p.m., Feb. 7, 2026, at Church of the Resurrection of Our Lord, 8121 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered by Bishop Frank J. Dewane. Nationally recognized Catholic presenter, best-selling author, and radio host, Jon Leonetti, will be the speaker for this event. His presentations are entitled: “Sacrament Most Holy, Sacrament Divine” and “Saints and the Eucharist.” There will also be food and fellowship. The conference will conclude with Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and Benediction. There is no cost, but registration is required. Space is limited, register today! View Conference Schedule or register at https://dioceseofvenice.regfox.com/2026-eucharistic-missionary-conference.
Milestone Anniversary Masses Feb. 14 and March 14
All couples celebrating 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, or more than 50 years of marriage are invited by Bishop Frank J. Dewane to an Anniversary Mass in their honor. The Diocese hosts two 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 is at 11 a.m., Feb. 14, 2026, at St. Leo the Great Parish, 28290 Beaumont Road, Bonita Springs. The second Mass is at 11 a.m., March 14, 2026, at St. Thomas More Parish, 2506 Gulf Gate Drive, Sarasota. A luncheon follows each Mass. Photos with Bishop Dewane will also be available for the couples. To register for either Mass, please contact your local Parish office for reservations no later than one week before the event you choose to attend. For additional information, please contact Jim Gontis at 941-484-4754 or gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.
Faith & Wine in Lee County Feb. 19
Faith & Wine, 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, will have its first event of the 2025-2026 season Feb. 19, 2026, at Resurrection of Our Lord Parish, 8051 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers. The guest speaker is Carol Razza, whose talk is titled: “Wake Up Sleeping Beauty, You Have Already Been Kissed.” Tickets are $28 and include a 3-course meal with wine followed by a presentation by an inspirational speaker. 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. For more information, or to register, please visit https://faithandwineleecounty.com/.
Faith & Ale of Southwest Florida Feb. 19
Faith & Ale, a Catholic Men’s Apostolate in Southwest Florida, offers monthly gatherings of Catholic men promoting fellowship and growth in faith. The next meeting is Feb. 19, 2026, at Our Lady of Light Parish, 19680 Cypress View Drive, Fort Myers. The guest speaker is Father James Rafferty, Director of the Institute for Priestly Formation, who will discuss “Discerning God’s Voice & The Tempter’s Voice.” Tickets are $10. Doors open at 6 p.m. Register https://faithandale.com/. For more information, email faithandalefortmyers@gmail.com.
Diocesan Lenten Youth Retreats
The Diocese of Venice Youth & Young Adult Ministry will offer opportunities for Middle School and High School students to have a privileged moment of encounter during Lent. Diocesan Lenten youth retreats are designed to create a time and place for silence, reflection, and shared experience, allowing young people to step away from the pace and distractions of daily life and re-focus their hearts on God. The middle school retreats will be offered 5 – 8:30 p.m., Feb. 20, 2026, at St. Elizabeth Seton Parish, Naples, and March 3, at St. Paul Parish, Arcadia. The high school retreats will be 3 – 8 p.m., Feb. 22, at St. Raphael Parish, Lehigh Acres, and March 1, at St. Thomas More Parish, Sarasota. Registration will open at dioceseofvenice.org on Jan. 20. The cost is $10 per student. For further information, please contact Andres Prias at prias@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-441-1122.
Our Mother’s House Wine Tasting Feb. 26
The annual Catholic Charities Our Mother’s House Wine Tasting Auction and Dinner Dance is 5:00 p.m., Feb 26, Plantation Golf & Country Club, 500 Rockley Blvd., Venice, to benefit the mothers and children at Our Mother’s House, a 2-year transitional living program located in the heart of Venice, dedicated to empowering single mothers with a child. Tickets $150. For more information, 941-485-6264 or omhwinetasting@ccdov.org.
Liberty Ball for Ave Maria School of Law
The Ave Maria School of Law invites all to attend the Liberty Ball – Celebrating 250 Years of Justice & the American Way, 5:30 p.m., Feb. 24, 2026, Royal Poinciana Golf Club, Naples. The theme is 18th century inspired elegance or black-tie optional. The keynote speaker is Christopher Ruddy, CEO, Newsmax Media. Tickets are $1,000. For more information, contact Jackie Burke at 239-687-5341 or jburk@avemarialaw.edu.
Application deadline for Foundation scholarships is March 1
The deadline for entry for college and vocational scholarships for the 2025-2026 academic year from the Catholic Community Foundation of Southwest Florida is 11:59 p.m., Sunday, March 1, 2025. To apply for all available scholarships, visit ccfdioceseofvenice.org. For more information contact Anna Kollmeyer at 941-486-4722 or ccf@dioceseofvenice.org.
Emmaus Experience Women’s Retreat in March
The Epiphany Cathedral Emmaus Retreat Team is hosting an Emmaus Experience Women’s Retreat March 6 to March 8, 2026, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice. Give yourself the gift of time away from distractions of your daily routine to listen to Jesus and the Holy Spirit in an environment of sincere faith, fellowship, and worship. Registration is $305 for a double room, $415 for a private room. Space is limited. The registration deadline is Feb. 16, 2026. Please contact Donna Vodraska at donnavodraska@aol.com or 630-336-0918.
Venetian Ball March 7 in Bonita Springs
The annual Catholic Charities Venetian Ball is 6 p.m., March 7, 2026, at St. Leo the Great Parish Hall, 28290 Beaumont Road, Bonita Springs. This gala benefits programming and services in Lee, Hendry, and Glades Counties. Tickets are $250, and are available at https://catholiccharitiesdov.org/events. For more information, call 239-342-1620 or email venetianball@ccdov.org.
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. Tickets are $500, and are available at https://catholiccharitiesdov.org/events. For more information, call 239-455-2655 or email emeraldball@catholiccharitiesdov.org.
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.
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.
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.
