Tag: mass

Cathedral joins consecration to Most Sacred Heart of Jesus

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Epiphany Cathedral Parish in Venice embraced the opportunity to participate in the national consecration to Sacred Heart of Jesus with a Novena of prayer, Mass and consecration on July 11, 2026.

The consecration to the Sacred Heart of Jesus comes from a call from the U.S. Bishops to join the festivities surrounding the United States’ commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence by recognizing and celebrating the contributions of Catholics and the impact of our faith on the history of this country.

The consecration to the Sacred Heart of Jesus signals to God that His goodness is not forgotten and that our country relies on God’s providence for continued flourishing, bringing blessing and hope to a country suffering from wounds of division.

The U.S. Bishops consecrated the United States to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus during the Bishops’ biannual meeting in Orlando on June 11.

That same evening, Epiphany Cathedral celebrated the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass and consecration. Prior to the Mass, the Cathedral offered Exposition and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, and many took the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Msgr. Patrick Dubois, who offered the homily, said the consecration is something that might be viewed as just a simple act, but is not that.

“We bring the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus,” Msgr. Dubois said. “We cannot say our country is perfect, that there are no wounds or divisions, or we have all the answers, because we do not. But because Jesus tells us, “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you, remain in my love (John 15:9).’ Our nation needs that love. We need that love.”

While many are oppressed by burdens, families struggles and the young are searching for meaning, these are wounds that politics, money and success cannot heal.

“Tonight, the Church does not bring our nation to a program or ideology, She brings our nation to a heart – the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus,” Msgr. Dubios said.

The Monsignor asked the faithful to truly look at the Sacred Heart of Jesus and realize what is seen: his love in a wounded, but still burning heart; a heart pierced, but still open; and a heart crowned with thorns, but still offering mercy.

“Jesus reveals to us the deepest desire of His Heart, that is to ‘love one another as I have loved you.’ The Sacred Heart is not simply a symbol of Christ’s love for us, but an invitation for us to love as He loves,” Msgr. Dubois continued. “The renewal of our nation will not begin in government buildings or public debates. It will begin in hearts, transformed by the love of Christ, and it is graced through simple acts of charity, patience and sacrifice. We all need to learn that.

The Mass also included a Litany of the Sacred heart of Jesus, special prayer intentions and a reading of the prayer to the Sacred Heart by all. This was the same prayer with which the U.S. Bishops consecrated the United States to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus earlier the same day in Orlando.

The Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is celebrated on the Friday immediately following the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi), which the Church incorporated in the Liturgical Calendar in response to the mystical visions experienced by St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, in Paray-le-Monial, France, between 1673 and 1675. However, the foundational devotion of meditating on the wounded Heart of Christ was born at the foot of the Cross through the divinely inspired love which the saints bore from then on to the Sacred Passion of the Crucified and Pierced Christ. Later, the early Church Fathers and countless saints, such as St. Bernard of Clairvaux, St. Gertrude the Great, St. Bonaventure and St. John Eudes, all encouraged devotion to the Pierced Heart of Jesus. This is why many Popes have also lauded such devotion and encouraged the practice of consecrating themselves, their homes, and even whole nations to the Sacred Heart.

Prayer to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

On the occasion of the U.S. Bishops Consecrating the United States of America to the Sacred Heart of Jesus:

O Most Sacred Heart of Jesus:

You know the longings of our hearts, and you desire that we enjoy friendship with you.

From your pierced side, you have poured out the wellspring of life, for which we thirst.

Your heart burns with a love for all people to return to a right relationship with you.

We celebrate the abundant gifts you have given this nation, founded on the self-evident truths that our Creator has endowed

all people with the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

We make reparation for the offenses against you and against human dignity that have taken place in this nation.

May our hearts be united to yours, so that our families and communities enjoy peace and happiness; may broken

relationships be reconciled, injustices repaired, and the wounds of our land be healed.

May your holy Catholic Church serve as a sign, pointing all people to your infinite love.

O Desire of Nations and Center of History, we ask you to bless these United States of America.

Who live and reign with God the Father

in the unity of the Holy Spirit,

God, for ever and ever.

Amen.

Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us!

Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us!

Ave Maria Parish school celebrates 2025 high school graduation

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The Ave Maria Catholic Academy celebrated the Baccalaureate Mass and 19th Commencement Exercises for its 31 graduating seniors in Ave Maria on May 29, 2026.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane was the main celebrant for the Mass which was attended by all the students, faculty and staff of the school. The opening procession for the Mass included each graduate carrying a white rose which was then placed in a vase before a statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Bishop Dewane praised the graduates for their academic achievements and remarked that his prayers were for their continued spiritual growth as they leave high school.

“The way to accomplish true spiritual growth is only by opening your hearts to the Holy Spirit for this will allow your faith to grow continually,” Bishop Dewane said. “Become more aware of what Christ gave us in His victory over death. Let that victory continue to shape your lives.”

Following Mass, Bishop Dewane stood for a photo with the graduates on the steps of the Parish. After some time for photos with the families, the festivities moved to the nearby school, with the commencement exercises taking place in the school gymnasium.

Principal Dr. Marc Snyder reflected upon how the school offers an authentic classical education where students encounter Christ each day and pursue excellence in all things from academics through sports.

Paul Jahnke, a National Merit Scholarship winner, was the class Valedictorian while the Salutatorian was Camila Pineros. In addition, one graduate, Connor Cameron, will be going on to study as a Diocese of Venice Seminarian at St. John Vianney College Seminary in Miami.

Dr. Joseph Guernsey, class of 2011, was the keynote speaker. Father David Vidal, Ave Maria Parish Pastor, offered the opening prayer while Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocese of Venice Superintendent of Catholic Education, offered closing remarks and Benediction.

The 31 graduates earned an impressive $5.7 million in scholarship offers. In addition, many are going on to attend Catholic colleges in the fall.

Pentecost – commemoration of the descent of Holy Spirit upon Apostles

Posted on by Bob Reddy

205 from 33 Parishes confirmed by Bishop

The journey of the Easter Season is concluded, and the Holy Spirit has descended to provide the faithful with the tremendous gifts of wisdom, knowledge, understanding, fortitude, counsel, piety and fear of the Lord.

Celebrated May 24, 2026, the Solemnity of Pentecost Sunday marks an important transition in the lives of the Apostles and clarifies their mission in creating the Lord’s Church on earth. It is traditionally viewed as the Church’s founding. Pentecost, which literally means 50, falls 50 days after Easter and is 10 days after the Ascension of the Lord. As a symbol of the “tounges of fire” of the Holy Spirit rained down on the Apostles, the clergy wear red vestments on this day.

“This is one of the greatest Feast Days of the Church in the context of Salvation History,” said Bishop Frank J. Dewane. “It is when Jesus establishes His Church on earth … the descent of the Holy Spirit, by the Father and the Son, signals the commencement and founding of the Church and all its works.”

This celebration commemorates when the Apostles, though still afraid, accepted the Gifts of the Holy Spirit and their role in carrying the message of the Lord into the world, the Bishop said.

The gifts of the Holy Spirit are sealed in the faithful through the Sacrament of Confirmation. Therefore, Pentecost is the time when those who have been baptized and are seeking to be more fully united to Christ within the Church are confirmed around the world.

At Our Lady of Light Parish in Fort Myers, Bishop Dewane bestowed the Sacrament of Confirmation upon 205 candidates representing 33 Parishes across the Diocese. These candidates were unable, for whatever reason, to be confirmed at their own Parishes during the past several months.

Bishop Dewane thanked the candidates for coming forward to be confirmed and said that the Sacrament of Confirmation must change them as they have been given a new beginning in their lives; they are making a permanent commitment that comes with corresponding responsibilities as an indelible mark is left upon their soul.

“We celebrate your presence here, that each one of you has come forward to be confirmed; to receive the Holy Spirit,” the Bishop said. “Every time we receive a Sacrament, we have an encounter with Jesus Christ. We must be changed as a result of that encounter. Today, you confirmandi are changed to be more that man or woman of God you are called to be.”

That change comes because living the faith must not flatline; which leads to spiritual death. Faith is always a continuing journey to grow closer to the Lord, Bishop Dewane continued.

“The Holy Spirit calls each of us; and we must respond in a very profound way to that call,” the Bishop said. “It’s not just what you are doing today, it is what you going to do when you leave here today, becoming ever more knowledgeable and acquainted with Jesus Christ in your lives.”

Bishop Dewane said it was no accident that brought the candidates forward. “It is a blessing. Take that strength and go forward, anointed with the gifts of the Holy Spirit.”

During the Sacrament, the confirmandi renewed their baptismal promises, which Bishop Dewane said is done to publicly proclaim who they are as Catholics and to have the courage, hope, faith and perseverance to be true followers of Christ.

As the Rite continued, the Bishop said an introductory prayer and asked all present to join him in praying for the candidates. He then recites an additional prayer pertaining to the Gifts of the Holy Spirit. Finally, the candidates were asked to come forward, with their sponsor placing their right hand on the candidate’s right shoulder. Bishop Dewane and Father Eric Scanlan, Pastor of Our Lady of Light Parish, who was delegated by the Bishop to assist in the Confirmation due to the large number of candidates, then administered the Rite. As two lines of confirmandi came forward, the Bishop and Father made the sign of the cross on each candidate’s forehead with the Holy Chrism Oil with their right thumb and said “Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.” The confirmed replied, “Amen.” At this point, the Bishop/Father said, “Peace be with you,” and the newly confirmed respond, “And with your spirit.”

One woman from St. Leo the Great Parish in Bonita Springs expressed her joy at being confirmed by Bishop Dewane. “What a beautiful day.”

A man from St. Francis Xavier Parish in Fort Myers explained how he drifted from his faith when his parents were divorced when he was a teen. It was through the encouragement of his grandmother, a steady presence in his life, that he sought the Sacrament of Confirmation. “This is an important moment for me. I feel complete as a Catholic. A closer relationship to the Lord is what I need in my life.”

2026 Totus Tuus summer program to be offered at 20 Parishes

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The successful Totus Tuus Parish summer catechetical camps will soon be taking place near you.

The final week of May saw 16 missionaries undergo intensive training and preparation as the first two Parish camps start May 31, 2026. Ultimately, there will be seven separate weeks of camp with a total of 20 Parishes serving as weekly hosts through July 24. More than 1,000 children and teens will be impacted by this special outreach.

 Totus Tuus – which means “totally yours” – is a one-week Parish Catechetical summer day camp program, for students entering grades 1-12, and aims to inspire young people to long for holiness, develop a deep desire for conversion and personally renew their faith with a stronger prayer life.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane encouraged the pilot program be brought to the Diocese in 2022 to great success, with expansions in 2023 to 11 host Parishes, 12 for 2024, 18 for 2025 and now 20 for 2026. During past visits to Totus Tuus camps, Bishop Dewane has been impressed by the response each child had to the uplifting program. “In each classroom everyone was so excited and alive about their love of the Lord!”

Bishop Dewane celebrated Mass for the Totus Tuus missionaries on May 27, while they were training at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice. The Bishop thanked the missionaries for their service in the Diocese and encouraged them to call upon the Holy Spirit to guide them through the summer and reminded them of the important role they will have for the boys and girls they encounter this summer.

This training focused on the spiritual aspect of the Totus Tuus program, including daily prayer, Eucharistic Adoration, and the Mass. Other components of the training covered the fundamentals of teaching young children and youth, as well as the fun aspects of the camp including the songs and dances that the campers will learn.

The week-long camps are divided into two segments, with the day camp for students entering grades 1 – 6, and an evening camp for middle school and high school students entering grades 7 – 12.

The younger children participate in several classes each day, attend daily Mass, learn the parts and liturgical music of Mass, and participate in games, skits, songs, recess and prayer. The older students participate in instruction, small group discussions, quiet meditations, prayer and fellowship.

Most importantly, Totus Tuus works to complement what parents teach their children in matters of their faith. This is something Bishop Dewane has stressed since the program had its trial run in the Diocese in 2022.

The 2026 Totus Tuus Summer Program schedule is as follows:

May 31 – June 5 – St. Frances Cabrini Parish, Parrish and St. Finbarr Parish, Naples;
June 7-12 – Epiphany Cathedral, Venice, St. Paul Parish, Arcadia, and Ave Maria Parish, Ave Maria;
June 14-19 – St. Agnes Parish, Naples, San Pedro Parish, North Port, St. Michael Parish, Wauchula, and St. Leo the Great Parish, Bonita Springs;
June 21-26 – St. Katharine Drexel Parish, Cape Coral, and Sacred Heart Parish, Bradenton;

July 5-10 – St. James Parish, Lake Placid, St. Catherine Parish, Sebring, Our Lady of Grace Parish, Avon Park, and Our Lady Queen of Heaven Parish, LaBelle;
July 12-17 – St. Joseph Parish, Bradenton, and Our Lady of Light Parish (Day Session)/ St. John XXIII Parish, Fort Myers (Evening Session);
July 19-24 – Our Lady of the Angels Parish, Lakewood Ranch, and St. Jude Parish, Sarasota. 

Please pray for the success of the Totus Tuus summer program, the campers, and the missionaries.

Camp registration information

Youth are welcome to attend any of the Totus Tuus camps, but registration is requested ahead of time. To register, please contact the hosting Parish directly. Parish contact information can be found at https://dioceseofvenice.org/find-a-parish/.

For more information, contact Andres Prias at prias@dioceseovenice.org, or 941-441-1122.

2026 Mooney seniors graduate

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School held its commencement exercises for 174 graduating seniors on May 22, 2026, at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Center on the Sarasota bayfront.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated the Baccalaureate Mass for the graduating class on May 20, 2025, at Incarnation Parish in Sarasota. Bishop Dewane thanked the parents for entrusting Cardinal Mooney with the education of their children. He also praised the graduates for their academic achievement, adding that his prayers were for their continued spiritual growth as they leave the Cardinal Mooney community to points beyond.

The Cardinal Mooney graduating seniors performed approximately 22,000 community service hours, and 94 percent are going directly to college. They earned nearly $13 million in scholarship offers, a number that does not yet include Florida Bright Future Scholarships. Several dozen will be attending Catholic universities, and one will attend the U.S. Military Academy. Other graduates will serve in the military, work or have a gap year.

During graduation the Cardinal Mooney Outstanding Senior Award was presented by Principal Ben Hopper to both Lucia Maria del Valle and Mason Dean Jordan. These two students were selected because they demonstrate the school’s ideals of religious and moral responsibility, personal and social responsibility, intellectual achievement, and a sense of purpose and direction, among other desirable traits and qualities. Their pictures and distinct honor will be placed in the school lobby.

Duke Bergstrom was the class Valedictorian and Gabriel Mehlum was Salutatorian. Father Alex Pince, Cardinal Mooney Chaplain, offered the invocation, while Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocesan Superintendent of Catholic Education, offered the Final Blessing.

 

 

Schools’ Sacred Heart of Jesus Devotional Project concludes – Catholic students grow closer to Christ

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The more than 6,700 Diocese of Venice Catholic school students have spent the past six months taking part in a special devotional project wherein they learned more about the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, all in a continued effort to help each student grow closer to Jesus Christ.

The theme for the 2025-2026 Diocesan Catholic School Devotional Project was for the focus on building up a devotion to Sacred Heart of Jesus, the symbol of Divine Love.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane supported this devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and has encouraged the devotional project concept since its inception in the 2020-2021 academic year.

The Devotional Project has two parts, a Junior Catechist program where eighth grade students from each of the Diocese’s 12 elementary schools receive specialized training and bring their knowledge about the fundamentals of the devotion, and how to grow closer to the Lord into their respective schools. In addition, an art contest encourages students from kindergarten through high school to submit their vision of this year’s devotion.

The Devotional Project closing ceremony took place May 11, 2026, at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice. Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocesan Superintendent of Catholic Education, celebrated Mass for the Junior Catechists and the art contest winners. Also participating were teachers and parents.

During the Mass, Father Belmonte stressed how through the Sacred Heart of Jesus we “call to mind our desire to be as Christ’s heart in the world; that we might be on fire with His love, and that we may share that love with everyone we meet.”

Father Belmonte said that we live in a world where there is little faith in God’s power and there is a presumption that God does not care. But he reminded the students that the devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus is the answer to a love-starved world.

“The Devotion to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus is the practice of giving ourselves to persons that do not necessarily want to give themselves to us,” Father continued. “Jesus’s heart is the powerhouse for peace in our times. His heart is what helps us avoid sin. Our love for the most loving and tender Heart of Jesus helps as a guide to ourselves and to love and serve our neighbor, especially those who are suffering. The Sacred Heart of Jesus convinces us not to judge or attack others, but to help and love them. The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus is the assurance that Jesus is with us, even, and especially, at the most difficult times in our life.”

Each Junior Catechist received a gift bag for their hard work, while the art contest winners received a gift, ribbon, a framed 20×30 print and prayer cards with their artwork. On the reverse of the card was a Prayer to the Sacred Heart of Jesus for Catholic Schools.

This is the fifth year the Diocesan Catholic schools have had a devotional project, with 2024-2025 focused on the Holy Angels, 2022-2023 focused on the Most Holy Eucharist (which coincided with the Diocesan Year of the ongoing National Eucharistic Revival); 2021-2022 on the Saints and the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of Saints; and 2020-2021 on St. Joseph.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Art contest

For the art contest winners, there were more than 250 entries. Honorees were, Blake Lavenia, grade 12, Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers; Madeline Macaluso, grade 12, Bishop Verot; Sydney O’Connell, grade 9, Bishop Verot; Lucia del Valle, grade 12, Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School in Sarasota; Madison Weiss, grade 2, Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School in Venice; Sofie DiSano, grade 5, St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral.

At a reception following the Mass, all the participants joined in light snacks and a presentation of the gift bags which included religious articles associated with the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Father Belmonte blessed the items with holy water.

 

2026 Chrism Mass – Symbol of Unity

Posted on 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 25th 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 25th year of service to the Catholic Church.

Celebrating the Annunciation of the Lord

Posted on by Bob Reddy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Additional festivities included an outdoor barbecue dinner, and concert.

Nine Months with Christ in the Womb

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

 

News Briefs for the week of March 27, 2026

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Appointments

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

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

Memorial Mass held for deceased Deacons and their spouses

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

Parish celebrates Feast Day

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

Marriage Prep Day draws 50 couples

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

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

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

40 Days for Life closing Fort Myers Vigil March 29

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

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

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

Retreat Center Triduum Retreat

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

Foundation grant applications open

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

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

Monthly Day of Prayer

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

Mass for Victims of Abuse April 10 in Venice

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

Catholic Healthcare Ethics Conference April 11 in Fort Myers

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

Sarasota Parish Divine Mercy Celebration

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

Theology on Tap April 16 in University Park

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

Faith & Ale of Southwest Florida April 16

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

Project Rachel retreat in Spanish April 18

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

Boots & Bandanas April 24

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

Ignatian Preached Retreat at OLPH May 8-11

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

Charity Golf Tournament

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

Diocese of Venice Totus Tuus Missionary Opportunity for Summer 2026

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

Prison Ministry volunteers needed throughout Diocese

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

Retreat Center seeks volunteers

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

Free Rosary Repair Service

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

Hundreds of couples recognized for “strongest witness to faith”

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Hundreds of couples were honored during a March 14, 2026, Diocese of Venice celebration of their lasting witness to the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated a Mass at St. Thomas More Parish in Sarasota recognizing 277 couples, who were celebrating a combined 14,127 years of marriage, for their accomplishment which brings hope to their families, to the community, to society and to the Universal Church.

The Bishop described the couples, married 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 and 50+ years, as both radical and countercultural, but also a true inspiration for others to follow and emulate during what he cited as one of the most uplifting Liturgies he celebrates each year because of the witness each has lived out.

“We give thanksgiving to the Lord for the graces He has given to you to live that Sacrament, day in and day out in a particular and unique way, united in Christ,” Bishop Dewane said. “My perspective is beautiful as I look out upon you all… you are beautiful not only in my eyes but in the eyes of God in the living of this Sacrament. As the strongest witnesses to faith, you are an example for younger generations to follow. Know the goodness it can be and the happiness it can give.”

The 277 couples present for the Mass were from 39 Parishes and included 39 couples who have been married 50 years. Of those couples, Brian & Karen Piech, of Ss. Peter and Paul the Apostles Parish in Bradenton, celebrated their 52nd anniversary on the day of the Mass.

The couple recognized as being present with the longest marriage was Marvin and Carol Peschel, who will celebrate 73 years on May 30. They were married in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and they currently attend St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish in Port Charlotte. The high school sweethearts raised five daughters, later welcoming nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Their advice for a long, happy marriage, “When times get tough, you don’t walk away. You work through it and pray through it.”

Other couples recognized during the Mass were Leo and Faye Heatly of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish in Osprey, and Roger and Arlene Trottier of Incarnation Parish in Sarasota. Both couples celebrate their 70th anniversaries in 2026.

During the Mass, the married couples renewed their wedding vows. In addition, for their participation, each couple was presented with a commemorative certificate, signed by the Bishop, for their enduring commitment to marriage. A reception followed the Mass with lunch and the opportunity to have a photo taken with the Bishop.

Masses are celebrated each year in the northern and southern sections of the Diocese of Venice to accommodate the large number of couples wanting to attend. The first Mass this year was Feb. 14 at St. Leo the Great Parish in Bonita Springs, bringing together 340 couples representing a combined 17,340 years of marriage.

Happy Anniversary to the happy couples!

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