Mission Archives - Diocese of Venice

News briefs for the week of November 13, 2026

Posted on November 13, 2026November 13, 2026 by Bob Reddy

Young students participate in their own “election day”

Pre-kindergarten students at St. Martha Catholic School, Sarasota, learned about making their voices count by voting on Election Day, Nov. 3, 2026. They had two important items on their ballot – cookies or a cupcake, and extra time/recess or more learning center time.

Junior thespians excel at district event

Congratulations to the St. Joseph Catholic School Jr. Thespian Troupe #10698 from Bradenton on the outstanding job they did Nov. 7, 2026, at the District 5 Event at Blake High School in Tampa. Out of 24 performance/tech pieces, students received 20 superiors and 4 excellents, with nine performances receiving Top Honors and four being designated as Judges’ Choice. Many hours of hard work after school getting the students ready paid off, as they were professional, well prepared, and had a fun experience. Next stop for the troupe is the state competition.

Make-a-Difference Day in Cape Coral

St. Andrew Catholic School eighth graders took their faith beyond their Cape Coral classroom for the annual Make-a-Difference Day, Nov. 5, 2026, dedicating their time and talents to serving others throughout our community. From lending a helping hand at local organizations to supporting our youngest Stars in Kindergarten, our students experienced firsthand the joy and importance of giving back. Students made a difference at the Cape Coral Caring Center, Special Populations, St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store, Kiwanis Thrift Store and Healthy Start/Help Me Grow. This was a great opportunity for the eighth graders to put compassion, kindness and service into action.

Naples teacher recognized

Congratulations to Megan Schuchman, a first-grade teacher at St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School, Naples who was awarded a grant Nov. 3, 2026, from Champions for Learning. Schuchman exemplifies the exceptional educators St. Elizabeth Seton is blessed to have. She sets goals, works tirelessly to achieve them, and always puts her students first. When the teachers succeed, the students are the true winners!

Grandparents celebrated at St. John Neumann

The annual Grandparents’ Day at St. John Neumann Catholic High School, Naples, is always a celebration honoring the special people who mean so much to the students. On Nov. 4, 2026, Neumann was blessed to welcome 200 grandparents to the campus for a beautiful Mass followed by lunch. The sun shone, smiles were plentiful, and the campus was filled with love and joy. The Mass was celebrated by Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocese of Venice episcopal vicar for education, and Father Jacob Gwynn, newly appointed chaplain at Neumann and parochial vicar at St. John the Evangelist Parish, Naples. The grandparents were recognized for the love, wisdom, faith, and encouragement they share with their grandchildren.

CCW supports Walking with Moms in Need

The Council of Catholic Women at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Venice, hosted a baby shower Nov. 4, 2026, to support moms and babies in the community. Three Diocese of Venice Walking with Moms in Need partners, Our Mother’s House of Catholic Charities, Pregnancy Solutions, and Venice Area Pregnancy Care Center, received donations to help them continue serving mothers and families with love, compassion, and hope.

New Legatus chapter chartered in Sarasota

On Oct. 21, 2026, the Sarasota Chapter of Legatus officially chartered at Lakewood Ranch Country Club, marking an exciting milestone just nine months after its kickoff. Legatus is an international organization of Catholic lay executives, CEOs, presidents, managing partners, and founders, who study, live and spread the Catholic faith in business, professional and personal lives. Joined by Legatus Founder Tom Monaghan, Chapter President Dan Altmayer and 20 founding members celebrated the beginning of a new chapter in Legatus’ mission to lead, serve, and carry forward its calling to be ambassadors for Christ. Mass for the gathering was celebrated by Father Greg Cleveland, OMV, director of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, Venice.

St. John Neumann Catholic High School board member honored

Catholic education and advancement leader Larry Furey was honored Sunday by the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (IHM) as a recipient of the Fideli Corde Award, recognizing individuals whose lives of service exemplify the IHM charism of Love, Creative Hope, and Fidelity. Furey was among the five individuals honored during a special Mass and celebration at the IHM Motherhouse in Immaculata, Pennsylvania on Sunday, November 8, 2026. The award recognizes individuals with “faithful hearts” whose tireless service to others reflects the mission and values of the IHM Sisters. Furey currently serves as a member of the board of the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA), Washington, D.C, St. John Neumann, and several other educational institutions and foundations.

IVF presentation being offered Nov. 18 in Naples and virtually

There are many questions surrounding IVF and its implications for human life. Understanding the medical, ethical, and moral considerations is an important part of this conversation. Join Community Pregnancy Clinics for its monthly Life Matters: Adult Education Night featuring Dr. John Bruchalski as he speaks on “Is IVF Pro-Life?” Dr. Bruchalski, founder of Tepeyac OB/GYN and Divine Mercy Care, will share his firsthand experience in the world of abortion and IVF and how it shaped his approach to medicine. He will offer insight into the ethical questions surrounding IVF and what it means to practice medicine with a commitment to human dignity. The presentation is being offered in person as well as virtually, 6:30 p.m., Nov. 18, 2026, at Community Pregnancy Clinics, 661 Goodlette-Frank Road, Suite 101, Naples. Register at https://qr.ly/-kxsJE.

Relics of St. Bernadette are coming to the Diocese in December

Two parishes in the Diocese of Venice will host the “Journey of Grace” U.S. Tour of the Relics of St. Bernadette. The relics, which began touring the U.S. in September 2026, will be at Ave Maria, 5088 Annunciation Circle, Ave Maria, Dec. 26-27, 2026, and Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 1301 Center Road, Venice, Dec. 28-30. Both parishes will be holding special Masses and devotions; more details will be announced in the coming weeks. For details about the Ave Maria visit, please call 239-261-5555, and the Our Lady of Lourdes visit, call 941-497-2931.

Faith and Wine Lee County returns Dec. 3

The 2026-2027 Faith and Wine Lee County returns 6 – 8:30 p.m., Dec. 3, 2026, at the Church of the Resurrection, 8051 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers. The guest speaker is Nikki Kingsley, a recognized Catholic speaker, author and evangelist whose powerful testimony has inspired audiences across the world. The theme for her talk is “Transformed by Love.” Registration opens Oct. 15, https://faithandwineleecounty.com/. Tickets are $28 and include a catered dinner and a glass of wine. If you have any questions, please email faithandwineleecounty@gmail.com.

Christmas concert in Cape Coral Dec. 4

St. Katharine Drexel Parish, 1922 SW 20^th Ave., Cape Coral is hosting a Christmas Concert 7 p.m., Dec. 4, 2026. All are welcome. Call 239-293-9501 for more information.

Retiro para Padres en Duelo en Español, 4 al 6 de diciembre

Se llevará a cabo un “Retiro para Padres en Duelo: Caminando con Jesús”, en español, del 4 al 6 de diciembre de 2026 en el Centro de Retiros Nuestra Señora del Perpetuo Socorro (Our Lady of Perpetua Help Retreat Center) en Venice.

Este retiro católico, basado en la fe, ofrece a los padres que han perdido a un hijo un espacio de paz, consuelo y esperanza, donde también podrán encontrar apoyo dentro de una comunidad que comparte su mismo camino de duelo.

Para obtener más información, comuníquese con Jim Gontis al 941-486-4754 o gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

Faith & Ale Dec. 10 in Fort Myers

The next Faith & Ale, a gathering of Catholic men, will take place, 6:30 – 8 p.m., Dec.10, 2026, at Our Lady of Light Parish, 19680 Cypress View Drive, Fort Myers. The featured speaker is Bob Allen Kroll, an energetic, passionate, and inspiring Catholic speaker. Kroll’s talk, “The incredible impact of a father,” will recount growing up in an alcoholic and abusive home, which began to make its way into his marriage and family life. But a radical event at the age of 43 changed everything. Tickets are $10. Please register at https://faithandale.com/events/kroll/.

Advent Mission in Naples Dec. 9-10

St. John the Evangelist Parish, 625 111^th Ave. N., Naples, invites all for an Advent Mission experience Dec. 9-10, 2026, with Maddy Cole, who serves on the Hallow’s Parish Team and is a dynamic speaker, apologist, and woman of faith who is passionate about helping parishes deepen their culture of prayer and encounter the living God. Cole brings the beauty and truth of the Catholic faith to life in a way that speaks to the hearts of people today. Through these special talks, attendees will have an opportunity to grow in their faith, deepen their prayer lives, and spiritually prepare for the coming of Christ at Christmas. The first talk is 9:30 a.m. and again at 6:30 p.m., Dec. 9. The second session is 9:30 a.m., Dec. 10. All are welcome for this special opportunity to pause during the busy Advent season, reflect on the beauty of our Catholic faith, and prepare our hearts for the celebration of Christ’s birth. Questions, call 239-566-8740.

Advent Mission in Sarasota Dec. 10-11

The Church of St. Patrick, 7900 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, invites all for a special two-night parish Advent Mission as they host “Doug and Dave – Mass Confusion’” 6:30 p.m., Dec. 10 and Dec. 11, 2026. As seen at the National Catholic Youth Conference – this is truly an evening for all ages. Each evening, ‘Doug and Dave’ will share a unique Catholic comedy and catechetical program that uses sketches, quirky characters, and faith-filled music to help bring the beauty, history, and mystery of the Mass to life. No RSVP needed, the church can seat 1,000 people. For more information, call 941-378-1703.

Bethlehem Village at OLPH in December

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.

Live Nativity in Naples Dec. 19 – 20

Come join St. Agnes Parish for the annual Live Nativity presented in both English and Spanish, Dec. 19-20, 2026, at 7775 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. Come and enjoy the wonders that God has provided us, sharing with family and friends, living step by step an important event in the history of the world, the Nativity. All are welcome to forget their worldly worries and immerse themselves in their experience that will transport participants to Bethlehem. The English presentations will take place following the 4 p.m. Mass, Dec. 19, and after the 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Mass, Dec. 20. The Spanish presentations will take place at 7 p.m., Dec. 19, and following the 1 p.m. Mass, Dec. 20. For more information, please call 239-592-1949.

Discovering Christ series coming to Fort Myers in January

The Church of the Resurrection of Our Lord Parish, 8121 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers, is hosting the Discovering Christ series, beginning 5:30 p.m., Jan. 8, 2027, in the Parish Center. This is a seven-week series that introduces the message of Jesus Christ. Have you ever asked yourself… What is the meaning of life? Why does Jesus matter? What does Jesus want me to know about Him and my life? No matter where you are on your journey of faith all are welcome. Invite family, friends and associates who’d enjoy exploring these questions. Join for dinner, refreshments, worship, a video presentation and discussion. For details and to register, please visit https://tinyurl.com/DCR27GST.

St. Elizabeth Seton school gala Jan. 23

The St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School annual gala “Behold I Make All Things New” will take place at 6 p.m., Jan. 23, 2027, in the school gymnasium, 2730 53rd Terrace, SW, Naples. The evening will include keynote speaker, Dr. Ray Guarendi, and fine dining, live and silent auctions, and music, all in support of investing in a brighter tomorrow for St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School. Tickets are $150 per person. For tickets, sponsorship and donation opportunities, please visit https://seasgala.org/.

St. Andrew school gala Jan. 23

The St. Andrew Catholic School 7th annual gala “La Vie Parisienne – Building Faith, Hearts and Minds,” is 5:30 p.m., Jan. 23, 2027, at The Westin Cape Coral, 5951 Silver King Blvd., Cape Coral. This will be an evening of elegance, inspiration, and giving in support of Catholic education. Tickets are $175 per person. For tickets, sponsorship and donation opportunities, please visit https://www.standrewcs.org/sacs-gala.

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.

Official biography of Bishop Emilio Biosca Agüero, O.F.M. Cap.

Posted on July 9, 2026 by Bob Reddy

See below for Spanish

Third Bishop of the Diocese of Venice in Florida

Bishop Emilio Biosca Agüero, O.F.M. Cap., was born December 15, 1964, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, to Emilio Rodolfo Biosca and Maria del Carmen Agüero who were recent immigrants from Cuba. The third of seven children, his two older sisters were born in Cuba. He was baptized on Dec. 25, at St. Patrick’s Church in Pueblo, Colorado.

The family first resided in Pueblo, Colorado, then Kansas City, Missouri, where his father, already a practicing dentist in Cuba, worked and studied, graduating from the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) School of Dentistry. The family relocated near relatives in Virginia, where his father opened a practice. Bishop Emilio attended St. Anthony and St. Leo Catholic schools, and then Bishop O’Connell High School.

Bishop Emilio briefly studied at George Mason University then entered the Capuchin Franciscans in 1984 transferring to Borromeo College of Ohio in Wickliffe and earning a B.A. in philosophy in 1987. He made first profession of vows in Pittsburgh on July 16, 1988. He continued Capuchin Formation and theological studies at Oblate College in Washington D.C., making solemn vows on August 17, 1991, and earning an M.A. and M.Div. in theology. He was ordained to the diaconate on May 1, 1993, and served at St. John the Evangelist in Center City Philadelphia.

On May 21, 1994, at the Shrine of the Sacred Heart in Washington, he was ordained to the priesthood by then-Bishop Sean O’Malley, O.F.M. Cap., volunteered and was sent to serve in the Capuchin mission in Papua New Guinea. From 1994 to 2004 he served predominantly the Kewa and Wiri speaking peoples in the Kagua, Ialibu and Pangia areas of the Southern Highlands and became fluent in Melanesian Tok Pisin. During this period, he worked closely with lay leaders and catechists. From 2002-2004 he served as the Director of Novices for the Capuchin Novitiate in Pangia.

In preparation for the mission in Cuba, Bishop Emilio returned to the United States in 2005 and studied at the Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and the Family at Catholic University in Washington, earning his STL degree (Licentiate in Sacred Theology), Magna Cum Laude.

In 2007, Bishop Emilio entered Cuba and served there for 12 years. He spent his first year in Havana, then three years as Pastor of La Pastora Parish in Santa Clara, and the last eight years on the eastern side of the country in the Diocese of Bayamo-Manzanillo, where he was Pastor of La Purisima Concepcion de Manzanillo.

Bishop Emilio was appointed Pastor of the Shrine of the Sacred Heart in Washington, DC on March 1, 2019. The Shrine of the Sacred Heart has 5,000 families and is culturally diverse, offering the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass in five languages each weekend (English, Spanish, Haitian Creole, Vietnamese, and Portuguese).

For the Capuchin Franciscans of the Province of St. Augustine, Bishop Emilio was elected as Third Councilor in 2022, and then as Provincial Vicar, First Councilor in 2025. He is fluent in English, Spanish and Melanesian Tok Pisin.

El Obispo Emilio Biosca Agüero, O.F.M. Cap., nació el 15 de diciembre de 1964 en Colorado Springs, Colorado, hijo de Emilio Rodolfo Biosca y María del Carmen Agüero, quienes habían emigrado recientemente de Cuba. Es el tercero de siete hermanos; sus dos hermanas mayores nacieron en Cuba. Fue bautizado el 25 de diciembre en la iglesia de San Patricio, en Pueblo, Colorado.

La familia residió inicialmente en Pueblo, Colorado, y posteriormente en Kansas City, Misuri, donde su padre, quien ya ejercía la odontología en Cuba, trabajó y continuó sus estudios, graduándose en la Facultad de Odontología de la Universidad de Misuri–Kansas City (UMKC). Más tarde, la familia se trasladó a Virginia, cerca de otros familiares, donde su padre abrió su consultorio dental. El Obispo Emilio cursó sus estudios en las escuelas católicas San Antonio y San León, y posteriormente en la Escuela Secundaria Bishop O’Connell.

El Obispo Emilio estudió brevemente en la Universidad George Mason antes de ingresar a los Frailes Menores Capuchinos en 1984. Posteriormente se trasladó al Borromeo College de Ohio, en Wickliffe, donde obtuvo el grado de Licenciado en Filosofía (B.A.) en 1987. Hizo su primera profesión de votos en Pittsburgh el 16 de julio de 1988. Continuó su formación capuchina y sus estudios teológicos en el Oblate College de Washington, D.C. Hizo su profesión solemne el 17 de agosto de 1991 y obtuvo la Maestría en Teología y Maestría en Divinidad. Fue ordenado diácono el 1 de mayo de 1993 y desempeñó su ministerio en la parroquia San Juan Evangelista, en Center City, Filadelfia.

El 21 de mayo de 1994, en el Santuario del Sagrado Corazón de Washington, fue ordenado sacerdote por el entonces obispo Sean O’Malley, O.F.M. Cap. Se ofreció como voluntario para la misión capuchina en Papúa Nueva Guinea, a donde fue enviado. Entre 1994 y 2004 sirvió principalmente a los pueblos de habla kewa y wiri en las regiones de Kagua, Ialibu y Pangia, en la provincia de Southern Highlands, y llegó a dominar con fluidez el tok pisin melanesio. Durante ese período trabajó estrechamente con líderes laicos y catequistas. De 2002 a 2004 fue Director de Novicios del Noviciado Capuchino de Pangia.

Como preparación para la misión en Cuba, el Obispo Emilio regresó a los Estados Unidos en 2005 y realizó estudios en el Instituto Pontificio Juan Pablo II para Estudios sobre el Matrimonio y la Familia de la Universidad Católica de América, en Washington, donde obtuvo la Licenciatura en Sagrada Teología (S.T.L.) con la calificación de Magna Cum Laude.

En 2007, el Obispo Emilio inició su ministerio en Cuba, donde sirvió durante doce años. Pasó su primer año en La Habana; luego fue durante tres años párroco de la parroquia La Pastora, en Santa Clara; y los últimos ocho años ejerció su ministerio en el oriente del país, en la Diócesis de Bayamo-Manzanillo, como párroco de la parroquia La Purísima Concepción de Manzanillo.

El 1 de marzo de 2019, el Obispo Emilio fue nombrado párroco del Santuario del Sagrado Corazón, en Washington, D.C. El Santuario del Sagrado Corazón cuenta con aproximadamente 5,000 familias y se caracteriza por su diversidad cultural, celebrando cada fin de semana el Santo Sacrificio de la Misa en cinco idiomas: inglés, español, criollo haitiano, vietnamita y portugués.

En la Provincia de San Agustín de los Frailes Menores Capuchinos, el Obispo Emilio fue elegido Tercer Consejero Provincial en 2022 y, posteriormente, Vicario Provincial y Primer Consejero en 2025. Habla con fluidez inglés, español y tok pisin melanesio.

Bishop Dewane responds to growth in the Diocese

Posted on March 14, 2025March 14, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Bishop Frank Dewane has issued two Decrees for the establishment of two new Missions in the Diocese of Venice in response to continued growth and need “to address the sacramental and spiritual needs of the Faithful.”

St. Benedict Mission will be built in Lakewood Ranch, and St. John Paul II Mission will be built in Naples. The Missions will initially be supported by Our Lady of the Angels Parish in Lakewood Ranch (St. Benedict) and St. Agnes Parish in Naples (St. John Paul II).

The Decrees read, in part, “Aware of the pastoral needs of the Faithful, and in effort to reorganize and better serve the People of God, in this portion of the Roman Catholic Church in the Diocese of Venice in Florida, it seemed necessary to make new canonical provisions.”

Land has been designated for each Mission, and building plans are underway.

Mission Religious Sister bound for South Pacific

Posted on December 19, 2021December 19, 2021 by Bob Reddy

The South Pacific, home to idyllic remote islands, is often considered by many to be a tropical paradise and the ideal vacation destination.

A vacation will be far from the mind of Sister Maria Madre de le Alborada Quizhpe, a Servant Sister of the Lord and the Virgin of Matara, when she begins her long journey to Wagina Island in the Diocese of Gizo in the Solomon Islands. That is the location of her next missionary assignment.

Sister Alborada will be leaving her current assignment on Dec. 20, 2021, after three years at St. Michael Parish in Wauchula. She will have the opportunity to visit her home in Ecuador for the holidays and then in early January 2022, she will fly to the Solomon Islands which are southeast of Papua New Guinea and was the location of extensive fighting throughout World War II. Upon arriving, Sister, and two fellow missionary sisters from her Religious Order, will be in COVID-19 quarantine in a hotel for 21 days.

After that long delay, it is a plane ride and a boat ride to where her new home will be, Wagina Island. The island is home to approximately 1,700 people who speak Pidgin and Kiribati and where English is seldom used. The Religious Family of the Incarnate Word, which includes the Servant Sisters, have been given the task to evangelize the island, with the first priest arriving in early 2018.

While the journey will be long in time and distance, it pales in comparison to how long Sister Alborada has been waiting for clearance to go to Wagina Island. She was weeks away from leaving is the first quarter of 2020 when the global pandemic put everything on hold, until now.

“It is when God wants you to be there,” Sister explained. “It is time. I did my best here in Florida, and am sad to leave, but I am happy to be going, as my next missionary adventure awaits.”

Sister Alborada is no stranger to missionary work in remote places, having served for eight years in Guyana before arriving in the Diocese of Venice in 2018. While in Wauchula, Sister said “the people of St. Michael welcomed me as part of their family, and they are a part of mine. In a way, they will be taking this journey with me.”

Part of her time has been running the food pantry, which became an even greater task during the global pandemic as the needs dramatically increased. “It was a physical and mental workout and a special time when you see the need and have the opportunity to help people in a fundamental way.”

Admittedly, her favorite part of life in Wauchula has been as a catechist, teaching young children about the Catholic Faith.

Sister described that experience: “Teaching the little ones is special, because you know how much they can learn. When you place before them good information, they will never forget about that. And the little faces when they realize who is God. Wonderful! Or when you are telling of the story of the Angel appearing before the Blessed Virgin Mary. They don’t question. They have such pure minds. It’s amazing when their little eyes just shine when they learn something new. Beautiful!”

While in Wauchula she learned from her fellow Religious and the faithful new and fun ways to evangelize, such as through festivals and games. In her return to a more remote missionary life, Sister will be helping with catechism and formation in her new Parish and beyond.

“As a missionary, you have to help people keep the Faith alive because Father is not always there,” Sister Alborada said. “We are going to have a kindergarten next to the Parish Church and begin religious education classes while also helping with the health center.”

While much of her work will be focused in one location, there are several Chapels on the island where she will visit and evangelize either alone or with other sisters or the priest.

In preparation for her journey, Sister Alborada has been praying a 30-day Novena to St. Joseph. She has also been gathering a variety of supplies for her missionary work and for her basic needs. The island is so remote that a two-hour boat ride and similar plane ride just gets one to the nearest large town. It is also very expensive to ship items and it can take days or weeks for specialized items to arrive, if at all. In addition to water filters, toiletries and clothing, Sister’s admittedly overloaded luggage will include a ciborium, chalice, crucifix, and statues of St. Joseph and Our Lady.

Sister Alborada said the Children’s Christmas Pageant – an annual elaborate nighttime recreation of the Nativity with live animals and a baby is scheduled for Dec. 18 and will be the last big event she sees before leaving Florida two days later.

“It will be wonderful to see, and a little sad. I will be leaving a piece of my heart behind after having the opportunity to be with such wonderful people.”

Two local students earn top Christmas art honors

Posted on December 7, 2021December 7, 2021 by Bob Reddy

Two St. Martha Catholic School students are 2020-2021 Missionary Childhood Association (MCA) Christmas Artwork Contest winners.

Eighth grader Paulina Wilk and fourth grader Chloe Smith were among 24 winners of this year’s contest who represent Dioceses across the country. All winners are featured as MCA eGreetings, which launched on the First Sunday of Advent at egreetings.missio.org. Their artwork will be displayed at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. through the Advent and Christmas Seasons this year.

An annual MCA awards ceremony was held Dec. 3, 2021, at the National Shrine for winners and their families. Mass followed and was celebrated by Msgr. Kieran E. Harrington, National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies (TPMS) in the United States, which include MCA.

“These young people are missionaries through their art, as their drawings proclaim the Good News of Jesus’ birth,” said Msgr. Harrington. “The Mission Church is blessed by the enthusiasm shown by these young artists – and by their commitment to mission, in prayer and sacrifice.”

Hundreds of submissions were received, both through the mail and online, for this annual competition which dates back to 1933. Back then, MCA used children’s artwork on Christmas seals. Christmas cards were introduced in 2005, and in 2007 eGreetings were launched with these drawings depicting scenes of the Christmas story: shepherds and angels, the Three Kings and the Holy Family, the animals present by the manger, and the Infant Jesus.

Paulina Wilk attended the awards ceremony with her parents. Mom, Dorothy Wilk, said Paulina has always enjoyed being an artist and has excelled ever since she was a little girl. “This was such an honor for her,” Dorothy Wilk said. “The ceremony was wonderful and to see her artwork on display at the Basilica was special.”

This was not the first time St. Martha Catholic School students have been recognized in the MCA Christmas Artwork Contest. Students from the school have been recognized multiple times through the years.

Mary Jo Salomone, Art Director at St. Marth, said Paulina and Chloe, along with each of her students, are amazing artists. Throughout the years Salomone takes time to ensure her students take part in the different art competitions and they have been honored to receive numerous awards.

“They never lose sight that each award is a gift from God which should be shared with others,” Salomone said. “Sharing God’s gifts with others every day of the year is the true meaning of Christmas.”

Father Bob Kantor, Director of the Diocese Office of the Propagation of the Faith (Missions Office), coordinates Diocesan mission work was very happy when he was notified. “Great news not only for the student winners and their families, but for St. Martha’s School and our Mission Office!”

An agency of the Pontifical Mission Societies, the MCA asks children in the nation’s elementary schools and parish religious education programs and those who are home-schooled to submit their artwork to illustrate “The Nativity & Mission.”

The MCA was founded in France in 1843 by Bishop Charles de Forbin Jansen. Its purpose is to encourage all children to be aware of the needs of children living in mission Dioceses throughout the world and support them both spiritually and sacrificially. Today it is in 110 countries and helps make Jesus known to children all over the world. Under its banner “children helping children”, monies raised through schools are directed towards self-help programs involving the building of schools, the provision of health and nutrition programs and medications, school fees, as well as teaching and learning resources.

For more information, please contact the Diocesan Office of the Propagation of the Faith (Missions Office) at 239-592-1949 or email missionoffice@dioceseofvenice.org.

News and photos from across the Diocese

Posted on December 16, 2019January 13, 2020 by Bob Reddy

Christmas Day Television Mass for the Homebound

The televised Christmas Day Mass for the Homebound with Celebrant Bishop Frank J. Dewane will air for a full hour on Christmas Day. For viewers in the northern portions of the Diocese (DeSoto, Hardee, Highlands, Manatee, and Sarasota counties), the Mass will air at 9:30 a.m. on the CW Network. In the southern portions of the Diocese (Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry, Lee counties), the Mass will air at 8 a.m. on WFTX-TV (FOX-4). Please check your cable provider for channel listings. Leaflet missals are available upon request by calling Gail Ardy at 941-486-4714 or by writing: TV Mass, Diocese of Venice, 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34285. For more information email ardy@dioceseofvenice.org.

Student artwork nationally recognized

Two St. Martha Catholic School students named as 2018-2019 Missionary Childhood Association (MCA) Christmas Artwork Contest winners earlier in the year, were recognized locally on Dec. 13 for their achievement. Sixth grader Collier Moser, and seventh grader Charlotte Thompson were two of only 24 students nationwide to be recognized with this honor. Additionally, Charlotte’s artwork was named one of two grand prizes and was reproduced as the Christmas Card of the national office of the Missionary Childhood Association. On Dec. 13, Father Bob Kantor, Director of the Diocese Office of the Propagation of the Faith (Missions Office), went to the Sarasota school for a presentation and to personally congratulate the winners and their art teacher, Mary Jo Salomone. Earlier in December, Charlotte attended a Mass in celebration for winners and their families at the Basilica of the National Shrine of Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. The artwork of all 24 student winners is on display there until mid-January.

The St. John Neumann Catholic High School YACHT club hosted a spectacular Salesian day at the circus for students from SJN and Cristo Rey Tampa in Naples.

Mass Honoring Widows and Widowers in Naples Jan. 26

Bishop Frank J. Dewane will celebrate a Mass for all widows and widowers beginning at 3 p.m., Jan. 26, St. John the Evangelist Parish, 625 111th N. Ave., Naples. Dinner will follow in the Parish Hall. A display of photos will be available for viewing during the reception; should you wish to participate with a photo of you and your deceased spouse, please email Gail at ardy@dioceseofvenice.org, or send a copy in advance to Diocese of Venice, ATTN: Widows and Widowers Mass, 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, Florida 34285. There is no cost to attend. Registration is required to plan for food. To register visit www.dioceseofvenice.org/calendar. For more details contact Gail at 941-484-9543 or ardy@dioceseofvenice.org.

Cheerleaders from Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers performed in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City.

Christmas Appeal continues

The annual Catholic Charities Christmas Appeal occurs now through January. The goal is to raise $565,000 and your gifts are much appreciated! The Catholic Charities Christmas Appeal is the agency’s largest fundraiser and critical to operating the social service organization. Your donation will benefit Catholic Charities programs and services available throughout Southwest Florida that assist individuals, families, and seniors all year long. Thank you for your giving spirit! To donate please visit www.catholiccharitiesdov.org or mail a donation to Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., 5824 Bee Ridge Road PMB 409, Sarasota, FL 34233-5065.

Venice Mayor Ron Feinsod speaks to students at Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School in early December. He visited the school in thanks to their response to a Mayors Feed the Hungry Campaign.

Mass Celebrating Haitian Independence

Bishop Frank J. Dewane invites everyone to participate in the Annual Mass celebrating Haitian Independence at 2 p.m., New Year’s Day, at St. Leo the Great Parish, 28290 Beaumont Road, Bonita Springs. The Mass, which is on the Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God, brings together the various Haitian communities within the Diocese of Venice for one celebration. There is a reception after the Mass in the Parish Hall.

Students at Bishop Verot Catholic High School gather for the lighting of a candle on the Advent Wreath on Dec. 9 in Fort Myers.

Apologetics Conference Jan. 16-17

The Diocese Office of Evangelization is offering three opportunities to attend an Apologetics Conference with Mike Aquilina. An award-winning author of more than fifty books on Catholic history, doctrine, and devotion, Anguilla will speak at 5:30 p.m., Jan. 16, Resurrection Parish, 8121 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers; and then 8:30 a.m. and 6 p.m., Jan. 17, 2020, Epiphany Cathedral, 310 Sarasota St., Venice. The topics is “Defend Youth Faith: Finding answers to modern problems in the early Church.” There is no cost, and all are welcome. For information, please call 941-484-9543, email evangelization@dioceseofvenice.org, or visit www.dioceseofvenice.org/calendar.

Card party in Englewood Jan. 8

The St. Francis Assisi Parish Women’s Guild card party will be held at 11 a.m., Jan. 8, in the Parish Hall, 5265 Placida Road, Grove City. Play cards or games until 2:30 p.m.. Please make your reservations by Jan. 6 by visiting to www.sfoachurch.com – Parish Forms – Card Party – Reservation form, or by calling 941-697-4899 ext. 6 and leave a message with your name, phone number and number of people at your table. Tickets are $8 and includes your lunch, drinks, playing time and door prizes. All are welcome to attend.

Marriage Prep Retreat Jan. 11

St. Charles Borromeo Parish, 21505 Augusta Ave., Port Charlotte, is offering a pre-Cana retreat called for by the Witness to Love Marriage Preparation program from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Jan.11. Engaged couples attend this retreat before their 5th meeting with their mentor couples, the Theology night with the priest or deacon. Mentor couples and couples preparing for convalidation through the Witness to Love Civil Marriage Initiative are also welcome to attend if they wish. The retreat will be held in the Saint Charles Parish Center from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The cost is $25 per couple. Couples should register with Michael Barrett at (941) 585-0668 or faithformation@stcbc.org by January 4th.

Our 4th Annual St. Nicholas Celebrates Advent event took place recently at St. Francis Xavier Catholic School in Fort Myers and included volunters from nearby Bishop Verot Catholic High School.

St. Ann Catholic School honored

The Naples Award Program has selected St. Ann Catholic School for the 2019 Best of Naples Award in the School category. The program is an annual awards outreach honoring the achievements and accomplishments of local business throughout the Naples area. Recognition is given to those that have shown the ability to use their best practices and implemented programs to generate advantages of long-term value.

Dinner for St. Vincent de Paul Society Jan. 14

The Knights of Columbus San Marco Council 6344 will sponsor the St. Vincent de Paul Society Dinner, 5:30 p.m., Jan. 14, in the San Marco Parish Center, 851 San Marco Road, Marco Island. The barbeque dinner includes pulled pork or fried chicken, baked potato, baked beans, salad, rolls and butter, coffee, tea, and dessert. Soda, Wine and Beer are available at a cash bar. The cost will be $25 per person. Credit cards accepted. Reserve a table. No take-out is available. This event is open to the public and everyone is invited. Buy your tickets at the Church Office or by calling Joe Granda at 239-389-2823, Mickey Flynn 609-335-2458, Joe Swaja at 239-269-7033, Gene Consolo at 248-321-2204 or John DeRosa at 239-272-0816. For more information, contact 239-389-5633 or visit our website at www.marcoknights.com.

Diocese news briefs for early July 2019

Posted on July 18, 2019 by Bob Reddy

Sarasota Pastor receives Rotary honor

Father Celestino Gutierrez, Pastor of St. Jude Parish in Sarasota, was recently honored by the Rotary Club of Sarasota with their “Citizen of the Year” award. Father was presented the award by Rotary Club President Joe Devore, for service to the community, in particular his focus on helping the poor and the needy. Father Gutierrez commented that, growing up in Spain, he never anticipated receiving such an award in the USA.

Mooney students go on Mission Trip to Jamaica

A group of Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School students from Sarasota went on a mission trip to Jamaica the week of June 17. During their trip the youth, who are all part of the Mooney Pivotal Directions mission club, worked in poor villages to help the needy of the area.

Immeasurable Mercy worship event July 25 on Sanibel

Take time to tend to your soul, for an Immeasurable Mercy worship event July 25, 7 p.m., St. Isabel Parish, 3559 Sanibel Captiva Road, Sanibel. The event will feature the music of Mark Shapic with vocals by Jennine Fuentes. There will be praise and worship, live music, adoration, confession, games, pizza and desserts. Please RSVP to Sue Ellen Nolan at239-472-2763 or sueellen.nolan@saintisabel.org.

Verot grad selected to MLB All-Star Game

Daniel Vogelbach, a graduate of Bishop Verot Catholic High School, and current Seattle Mariners designated hitter was selected to the 2019 Major League Baseball All-Star game, which was held July 9 in Cleveland. At the All-Star break, he had 20 home runs and a .244 batting average. Vogelbach help lead the Verot Vikings baseball team to the 2011 Florida Class 3A State Championship and shortly after graduation that same year was drafted 68th overall in the second round by the Chicago Cubs. Vogelbach set a Vikings single-season record with 17 home runs. He also led the team in batting average .459, hits (39), triples (4), walks (27), RBI (50), on-base percentage (.571) and slugging (1.224). After playing in the Cubs farm system, he was traded to the Mariners in 2016 and made his major league debut Sept. 12, 2016, earning his first hit the next night.

Knights on Bikes looking for riders

If you’re driving almost anywhere in Florida or the United States… you’ve probably seen or noticed a motorcyclist on a Harley Davidson, or another motorcycle, with a Knights of Columbus patch and a cross on their leather riding vests along with various other patches. Many Knights of Columbus have asked, “Who are these guys?” Well these are the Knights on Bikes and they are Knights of Columbus first and foremost dedicated to their roles of Knights of Columbus, the Dioceses of Venice, and the Holy Spirit! If you are a current, or planning to become a, Knight of Columbus with a positive passion for motorcycles and would like to ride with fellow positive minded Knights on Bikes, please consider joining. Knights on Bikes is always looking for properly formed good spirited Catholic men within the Diocese of Venice and other Dioceses for rides and fundraising. The motto is, ” In God We Trust and Ride.” For more information, please contact Venice Diocesan Knights on Bikes Chairman George Lopez for details at Knights1314@yahoo.com.

Arcadia senior housing opening soon

Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice announces the completion of St. John Paul II Villas in Arcadia – a brand new development for Senior, Low-Income Housing. Apartments available consist of 1 or 2 bedrooms and are available for individuals 55 years of age and older, or handicapped or disabled. Income restrictions apply. For more information please call 863-884-2123.

Home Buyer Education Workshop

Catholic Charities offers a free Home Buyer Education Workshop every month in Bradenton and Sarasota in both English and Spanish. Potential home buyers receive important and useful information on how to purchase a home. For information, call Catholic Charities at 941-714-7829.