Two Cardinal Mooney seniors named National Merit semifinalists
Two Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School seniors, Jack Fiskness and Jolie Pastorick, have been named semifinalists in the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program. This prestigious recognition for the Sarasota students places them among some of the highest-achieving students in the nation and reflects their exceptional academic dedication and hard work. Good job Jack and Jolie!
Theology on Tap has packed house
There was a packed house as young adults from parishes across the area gathered at Oak and Stone in Sarasota for Theology on Tap, Sept. 17, 2026, and it wasa packed house. The speaker, Dr. Alan Van Wart of Ave Maria University, described the context in which St. Pope John XXIII convened the Second Vatican Council. He reminded all how Vatican II called the Church to renew Her evangelizing mission by placing Christ back at the center of everything. The room was full, the discussion was engaging, and the Q&A showed just how thoughtful and invested our young adults are. It was a night marked by respect, camaraderie, and shared joy. The next Theology on Tap will be 7-9 p.m., Oct. 15. It will be Catholic Trivia Night! For more information, contact Andres Prias at prias@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-441-1122.
Mass of Remembrance for Hurricane Ian, Sept. 28
Bishop Emilio E. Biosca, O.F.M. Cap., will be celebrating a Mass of Remembrance at 9 a.m., Sept. 28, 2026, on the grounds of the Church of the Ascension, 6025 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach. The Mass will be celebrated on the fourth anniversary of Hurricane Ian, which devastated the island community. All are welcome.
First Thursday Eucharistic Adoration in Sarasota Oct. 1
Incarnation Parish, 2929 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, invites all to Eucharistic Adoration with live music and confession, held at 6:30 p.m., on the first Thursday of every month (Oct. 1, 2026). All are welcome to come and spend time in the presence of Jesus.
Feast of St. Francis Celebration at OLPH Oct. 4
Come celebrate the Feast of St. Francis Oct. 4, 2026, with Bishop Emilio Biosca Agüero, O.F.M. Cap., at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice. The afternoon will begin at 3 p.m., with the celebration of Mass. This will be followed by light refreshments and a Q&A with Bishop Emilio. This year is especially meaningful as we celebrate the Year of St. Francis, a special opportunity to reflect on the life, witness, and spirituality of this beloved saint who continues to inspire us through his love of Christ, care for creation, and dedication to serving others. Registration is required. For more details, please visit Feast of St. Francis Celebration – OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP RETREAT AND SPIRITUALITY CENTER – Venice, FL. If you have any questions, please call 941-486-0233.
Upcoming Youth Adoration Nights
Young people from across the Diocese are invited to an evening of prayer and Eucharistic Adoration 6-8:30 p.m., at Ave Maria Parish, 5078 Pope John Paul II Boulevard Ave Maria, and 6-8:30 p.m., at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church 5265 Placida Road, Grove City. Come spend time in the presence of Jesus and encounter Him alongside other young Catholics. For more information, contact Andres Prias at prias@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-441-1122.
Calling all Catholic Singles! Naples Catholic Speed Dating events
In collaboration with Catholic Fellowship Around Naples Singles Ministry, Soul to Soul Coaching presents Catholic Speed Dating Events: a process to start purposeful conversation, build emotional and spiritual connection, and support authentic preparation for marriage. The speed dating event is Oct. 10, 2026, at St. John the Evangelist Parish, Ballroom, 625 111th Ave. N., Naples. Advance registration required. First event: ages 30-49, begins at 4:30 p.m. Cost: $40/person. Register here. Second event: ages 21-39, begins at 7 p.m. Cost: $40/person. Register here. For more information, contact Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-486-4754.
Verso l’alto: A Men’s Priestly Discernment Day
Are you considering a vocation to the priesthood or know someone who is? Join the Diocese of Venice Vocations Office for “Verso l’alto: A Men’s Priestly Discernment Day,” Oct. 10, 2026, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. at St. John the Evangelist Parish, Naples. For young men ages 16-35 who would like to learn more about the priestly vocation. Inspiring talks, discussions with seminarians, priests and peers, Mass, Adoration, food and fun! To register, visit https://dioceseofvenice.regfox.com/mens-priestly-discernment-day, or contact Father Alex Pince, Diocese of Venice Vocations Director, by email, or phone, 941-486-4703.
Monthly Days of Prayer
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice, is hosting its Monthly Days of Prayer Oct. 11 and Oct. 14, 2026. Come for “The Weaver’s Hidden Threads” with Father Greg Cleveland, OMV, as he explores how God uses suffering, loss, and unanswered questions to weave a masterpiece only heaven reveals. The Monthly Day of Prayer is an opportunity to take time out of your busy and hectic life to focus on God. The day begins at 9:30 am with Continental breakfast and includes two conferences by an OLPH priest, the opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, lunch, and Mass. Time for adoration, private prayer, or meditation on the beautiful OLPH grounds will also be available. The day concludes at 3:15pm. The cost is $45. Register at https://www.olph-retreat.org/monthly-day-of-prayer.
Celebrate Feast of St. Carlo Acutis in Cape Coral Oct. 12
Venerate first-class relics of St. Carlo Acutis and his friends and mentors (St. Maria Goretti, St. Dominic Savio, St. Therese Lisieux of the Little Flower and St. Ignatius of Loyola), on his feast day, Oct. 12, 2026, 9 a.m.-6:45 p.m. at St. Katharine Drexel Parish, 1922 S.W. 20th Ave., Cape Coral. St. Carlo Acutis was an Italian teenager who became the first millennial saint best known for his devotion to the Holy Eucharist and his use of digital media to promote Catholic devotion including documenting Eucharistic miracles and Marian apparitions. Day includes 9 a.m. Mass with the Rite of Anointing, 9:45 exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, a blessing of the new St. Carlo Acutis statue, Litany of the Saints and Veneration of the Relics, Rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet. From 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., each holy hour will be introduced with a brief story about the life of St. Carlo Acutis.
Ignatian Preached Retreat
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice, is hosting an Ignatian Preached Retreat, Oct. 23-26, 2026. This three-night silent retreat will introduce the great themes of the Spiritual Exercises in a group setting. The schedule includes conferences each day, daily Mass, and an opportunity to meet at least once with the retreat director for Confession and/or spiritual direction. Conference topics center on Ignatian spirituality, prayer, and discernment. The cost is $525 per retreatant for a private room and $360 per retreatant for a shared room (retreatant to locate appropriate roommate where silence can be maintained). Visit https://olph-retreat.org/schedule-of-events for information or to sign up.
Magnificat Meal for Women Oct. 24 in Fort Myers
The next Magnificat Meal for Women is 9:30 a.m.-12:30 a.m., Oct. 24, 2026, at the Crowne Plaza, 9931 Interstate Commerce Drive, Fort Myers. The theme is “Be Blessed and Encouraged” and the speaker is Father Shawn Roser, a priest at Resurrection of Our Lord Parish. Reservations can be made online until Oct. 20 at magnificatfortmyers.com/order-tickets/. For more information, contact Margaret Mengle, 239-826-7475.
Sarasota Catholic school gala Oct. 24
Join the St. Martha Catholic School Annual Knights Gala at the beautiful Mote SEA, Sarasota, Oct. 24, 2026. Surrounded by the wonder of the underwater world, guests will enjoy an inspiring evening filled with faith, community, celebration, and purpose, featuring a lively cocktail reception, a gourmet dinner, and exciting live and silent auctions showcasing unique items, experiences, and opportunities to support our school. Sponsorships and tickets available now at https://onecau.se/_fmxtc1.
Marriage conference Oct. 24
Catholic married and engaged couples are invited to the sixth annual Together in Holiness Marriage Conference Oct. 24, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Our Lady of Light Parish in Fort Myers. Spend quality time with your spouse, hear from dynamic national and local speakers, and enhance your marriage through the Sacraments. Registration: $64/couple and $5/child for on-site childcare. Scholarships upon request. This conference is presented by the Diocese of Venice and the St. John Paul II Foundation. To register, visit www.forlifeandfamily.org/events/th26-vnfl/ Contact Jim Gontis at Gontis@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-486-4754.
18th annual Red Mass in Sarasota Oct. 21
The Catholic Lawyers Guild invites all those working in the legal profession (judges, lawyers, lawmakers, their families, and staff) to the 18th annual Red Mass, 5:30 p.m., Oct. 21, 2026, St. Martha Parish, 200 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota. Bishop Emilo E. Biosca O.F.M. Cap., will be the main celebrant. A reception will follow in the Father Fausto Parish Hall. Please RSVP for the Mass/reception before Oct. 14 to Tina Mroczkowski at tinam@bowmangeorge.com or 941-366-5510.
Weekend retreat for bereaved parents
A “Retreat for Grieving Parents: Walking with Jesus,” is coming to Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, Venice, Oct. 30 – Nov. 1, 2026. This Catholic faith-based retreat offers grieving parents a space of peace, comfort, and hope, where they can also find support within a community that shares their journey. Cost for a shared room is $150 per person, $250 for a private room. To register, visit https://dioceseofvenice.regfox.com/2026-bereaved-parents-weekend-retreat. For more information, please contact Lisa Dahn at 239-961-1161 or lgdahn@gmail.com, or Jim Gontis at 941-486-4754 or gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.
Parish Mission in Cape Coral Nov 1-2
St. Katharine Drexel Parish, 1922 SW 20th Ave., Cape Coral, is hosting a Parish Mission with Jon Leonetti Nov. 1 and 2, 2026. The schedule for both nights begins at 6 p.m., with the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Adoration, the mission talk (with confessions available throughout), and a closing Benediction, solemn blessing and dismissal. There is an additional talk on Nov. 2, following the 9 a.m. Mass. All are welcome for this opportunity for prayer, reflection and renewal.
Holiday Bereavement Outreach Retreats
Those grieving the loss of a loved one are invited to “There Is Hope: Coping with the Death of a Loved One During the Holidays,” a Catholic bereavement retreat led by Deacon Henry de Mena and offered at four locations throughout the Diocese of Venice on Nov. 3-6, 2026. All retreats are from 8:30 a.m. to noon, at the following parishes: Nov. 3, Our Lady of Lourdes, Venice; Nov. 4, Sacred Heart, Punta Gorda; Nov. 5, St. Paul, Arcadia; Nov. 6, St. Agnes, Naples. Contact Jim Gontis at 941-486-4754 or gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.
Charismatic Renewal Conference in Port Charlotte Nov. 7
A Charismatic Renewal Conference will take from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., St. Charles Borromeo Parish, 21505 Augusta Ave., Port Charlotte. This will be a day of empowerment, healing and impartation with speaker Deacon Larry Oney and Andi Oney. Register at venicecharismatic.org Price is $65 and includes breakfast and lunch.
Ave Maria Veteran’s Ball Nov. 7
The annual Knights of Columbus “Ave Maria Veteran’s Ball: Celebration for All,” is 6 p.m., Nov. 7, 2026, at the Del Webb Grand Hall, Ave Maria. The keynote is Capt. Daniel L. Mode, U.S. Navy Chaplain, the original postulator of the Cause of Canonization of Servant of God Father Vincent Capadanno. The evening also includes dinner and dancing. Tickets are $125 per person, and proceeds benefit veteran’s program. For tickets, please visit www.avemariakofc.org/veterans-ball.
Kristallnacht commemoration of Holocaust Nov. 8
The Catholic Jewish-Dialogue of Collier County invites the community to its commemoration of the 88th anniversary of Kristallnacht, 2:30 p.m., Nov. 8, 2026, St. William Parish, 601 Seagate Drive, Naples. The annual interreligious event commemorates, Kristallnacht, Night of Broken Glass, a systematic attack on the Jewish people and businesses in Germany that marked what is considered the start of the Holocaust. Explore the roots of the Holocaust and reflect on how its lessons resonate today. The event is sponsored by the Diocese of Venice, the Holocaust Museum & Janet G. & Harvey D. Cohen Education Center, GenShoah of SWFL, Jewish Federation of Great Naples. All are welcome. The event is free of charge. Register at https://jfgn.regfox.com/kristallnacht-2026.
UNSHAKEN Youth Rally Nov. 14
High school youth from across the Diocese of Venice are invited to an unforgettable day of faith, fellowship, inspiring talks, live music, prayer, and celebration! Inspired by John 15:5 “I am the vine; you are the branches.” The Rally will remind young men and women that when we remain rooted in Christ, we can stand UNSHAKEN. The Rally is 12:30 – 8 p.m., Nov. 14, 2026, Charlotte Harbor Conference Center, Punta Gorda. Registration deadline is Nov. 6. All youth must register through their parish youth group or through their high school. For more information, and to register, please visit Unshaken Youth Rally 2026.
Something new is coming to OLPH this Christmas!
This December, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, Venice, will become Bethlehem Village – a special Christmas celebration inviting families, friends, and parish communities to step into the story of Christmas. On Dec. 13, 2026, come for a day filled with Christmas music, family activities, a festive Bethlehem Marketplace, Bishop St. Nicholas, and a Live Nativity — all centered on the joy and meaning of Christ’s birth. OLPH is looking for a select group of local artisans and small businesses to become part of our Bethlehem Village Marketplace! The retreat center is intentionally creating a small, curated marketplace featuring unique products such as honey, olive oil, handmade soaps, handmade candles, and baked goods. Interested in being part of Bethlehem Village? Vendor applications are now being accepted! Apply at: https://www.olph-retreat.org/vendors-wanted. For more information, call 941-486-0233.
Volunteers needed for prison outreach
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. Contact Joe Mallof at 224-217-7139 or Bob Hiniker 863-558-0407.
Are you considering a vocation to the priesthood or know someone who is? Join the Diocese of Venice Vocations Office for “Verso l’alto: A Men’s Priestly Discernment Day,” Oct. 10, 2026, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. at St. John the Evangelist Parish, Naples. For young men ages 16-35 who would like to learn more about the priestly vocation. Inspiring talks, discussions with seminarians, priests and peers, Mass, Adoration, food and fun! To register, visit https://dioceseofvenice.regfox.com/mens-priestly-discernment-day, or contact Father Alex Pince, Diocese of Venice Vocations Director, by email, or phone, 941-486-4703.
Venerate first-class relics of St. Carlo Acutis and his friends and mentors (St. Maria Goretti, St. Dominic Savio, St. Therese Lisieux of the Little Flower and St. Ignatius of Loyola), on his feast day, Oct. 12, 2026, 9 a.m.-6:45 p.m. at St. Katharine Drexel Parish, 1922 S.W. 20th Ave., Cape Coral. St. Carlo Acutis was an Italian teenager who became the first millennial saint best known for his devotion to the Holy Eucharist and his use of digital media to promote Catholic devotion including documenting Eucharistic miracles and Marian apparitions. Day includes 9 a.m. Mass with the Rite of Anointing, 9:45 exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, a blessing of the new St. Carlo Acutis statue, Litany of the Saints and Veneration of the Relics, Rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet. From 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., each holy hour will be introduced with a brief story about the life of St. Carlo Acutis.
The Diocese of Venice is saddened to announce the death of Father Normado Feliz, who passed away Aug. 24, 2026, at the age of 79. Father Feliz was ordained on January 11, 1975, in Santo Domingo. Father served in the Dominican Republic as a Navy Chaplain, Pastor, and Seminary Professor of Liturgy, English and Spanish. Father Normando has served in the Diocese of Venice since January 1987 and was incardinated into the Diocese on April 10, 1990. His official appointments included Parochial Vicar at St. Paul Parish, Arcadia, and St. Andrew Parish, Cape Coral; and Pastor of Our Lady Queen of Heaven Parish, LaBelle, and Sacred Heart Parish, Bradenton. From 2000 to 2002 Father Feliz took a sabbatical for Scripture and Theology Studies and Graduate Studies in Canon Law. Between 2002 to 2004, Father served as Diocesan Director of the Department of Ministries. From August 2004 until his retirement in November 2008, Father Feliz served as Pastor of St. Peter the Apostle Parish in Naples. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Aug. 28, 2026, at St. Andrew Parish, Coral Springs. Please pray for the repose of the soul of Father Feliz and the consolation of his family. May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in eternal peace.
Registration is still open for the 11 a.m., Sunday Mass, Oct. 11, 2026, celebrated by Bishop Emilio E. Biosca, O.F.M. Cap., at the Rustic Altar at the Shrine National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche, St. Augustine. The Mass will be followed by lunch. Participation is free, but registration is required and will remain open until capacity is reached. Register today at 
The St. Therese Parish, Knights of Columbus Council #8440, North Fort Myers, made a wonderful donation that allowed St. Mary Academy to purchase a Chompsaw, which helps students with special needs safely and independently cut cardboard for their school projects. This wonderful gift will make a meaningful difference, especially in the student’s STREAM classes (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Art, and Math). The school is grateful for the support of their students and for helping to provide them with the tools and opportunities they need to learn, create, and succeed. To learn more about St. Mary Academy and the work they do for diverse learners please contact Connie Taft at 941-366-4010 ext. 318.
Tune in for the first episode of “Lighting the Lantern with Bishop Emilio,” the bishop’s new monthly radio show. The show will air on Relevant Radio on the last Friday of every month at 8:30 AM on 1410 AM and 106.7 FM in Fort Myers, and 1660 AM and 93.3 FM in Naples, and will also be available any time at 
The priests of St. Peter the Apostle Parish, Father David Portorreal, Administrator, and Father Wilian Montalvo Tello, Parochial Vicar, on behalf of the St. John Paul II Young Adult Group, warmly invite all young adults 18–35 years of age to participate in the third annual bilingual Young Adult Conference on Saturday, Sept. 5, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at St. Peter the Apostle Parish, Naples. Join a day of faith, fellowship, and spiritual growth featuring inspiring talks, interactive activities, games, and much more. The day will conclude with the celebration of Holy Mass at 6 p.m. For more information or to register, please email 
Catholic married and engaged couples are invited to the sixth annual Together in Holiness Marriage Conference on Oct. 24, 2026, from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at Our Lady of Light Parish in Fort Myers. Spend quality time with your spouse, hear from dynamic national and local speakers, and enhance your marriage through the Sacraments. Registration: $64/couple and $5/child for on-site childcare. An Early Bird discount is available through Sept. 14 as well as scholarships upon request. This conference is presented by the Diocese of Venice and the St. John Paul II Foundation. To register, visit 
The Cenacle of Mary welcomed Father Santiago Martin, the founder of the Franciscans of Mary (Missionaries of Gratitude), to a celebration on Aug. 15, 2026, at St. Leo the Great Parish, Bonita Springs. Nearly 1,000 attended the event. The Franciscans of Mary is an association founded in Madrid, Spain in 1988, and is an order of both religious and lay people. In 2007 Pope Benedict XVI gave pontifical approval and officially recognized the charism of gratitude. The pope then granted final approval of the statutes of the institution in 2012. Currently present in 44 countries, the Franciscans of Mary spread the spirituality of gratitude through imitation of the Blessed Virgin and St. Francis of Assisi.
Relive or hear for the first time the beautiful music of the Episcopal Ordination Mass! 
Thank you to all who joined and prayed with the Diocese of Venice during the Bishop Emilio’s Ordination weekend, either in person or via livestream. Recordings of the livestreams from both Solemn Vespers and the Ordination and Installation Mass 
