ordination Archives - Diocese of Venice

News Briefs for the week of May 23, 2025

Posted on May 22, 2025May 22, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Bishop Verot baseball team falls in state semifinals

The Bishop Verot Catholic High School baseball team from Fort Myers fell in the state class 3A semifinals on May 19, 2025, at Hammond Stadium in Fort Myers to Miami Springs. The team won the 3A regionals to reach the semifinals for the second consecutive year after beating Calvary Christian in a best of three series. The Vikings finished the season with an impressive 32-3 record, a school record, and have been ranked as high as 11^th in the nation.

St. Martha Catholic Schools unveils new mascot

The new Knight Mascot for St. Martha Catholic School in Sarasota was introduced during a Pep Rally on May 15, 2025. The rally also included a celebration and recognition of all of the school clubs and sports teams.

Ordination to the Permanent Diaconate May 31 in Naples

An Ordination to the Permanent Diaconate will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, May 31, 2025, at St. Agnes Parish, 7775 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. Bishop Frank J. Dewane will preside over the Ordination to the Permanent Diaconate for the following candidates: Richard E. Dahn, St. Agnes Parish, Naples; Richard A. Hellenbrand, St. Andrew Parish, Cape Coral; Thomas A. Januszka, St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Parish, Parrish; Stephen L. Jendrysik, Incarnation Parish, Sarasota; James M. Jenkins, St. William Parish, Naples; Ramon R. Kanacheril, St. Vincent de Paul Parish, Fort Myers; Mark A. Osterhaus, St. Agnes Parish, Naples; Orlando A. Rubiano, St. Vincent de Paul Parish, Fort Myers; Jeff Tenbarge, St. Peter the Apostle Parish, Naples; John-William Trainer III, St. Peter the Apostle Parish, Naples; and Edward J. Watson, Ave Maria Parish, Ave Maria. All are invited and encouraged to attend. The livestream of the Ordination will be available at https://www.facebook.com/StAgnesNaples and stagnesnaples.org.

Relevant Radio: “Witnessing Faith with Bishop Dewane” May 30

Join Bishop Frank J. Dewane for his monthly half-hour radio program on Relevant Radio on 106.7 FM and 1410 AM in Fort Myers and 93.3 FM and 1660 AM in Naples. Witnessing Faith with Bishop Dewane can be heard at 8:30 a.m. on the last Friday of every month, or anytime at www.dioceseofvenice.org/ourbishop. The next episode will air on Friday, May 30, 2025.

Totus Tuus Summer Catechetical Camp

The Totus Tuus one-week Parish Catechetical summer day camp program, for students entering grades 1-12, 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. In 2022, the Diocese of Venice launched its pilot program, with great success. The program has continued and expanded each year and will be offered at 18 Parishes throughout the Diocese this summer, between June 1 and July 25, 2025. The following is a list of host Parishes:

June 1-6 – St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Parish, Parrish; St. Finbar Parish, Naples; San Pedro Parish, North Port;
June 8-13 – St. Paul Parish, Arcadia; Sacred Heart Parish, Bradenton; St. Katharine Drexel Parish, Cape Coral;
June 15-20 – St. Agnes Parish, Naples;
June 22-27 – Ave Maria Parish, Ave Maria; St. Jude Parish, Sarasota;
July 6-11 – St. Cecilia Parish, Fort Myers; Our Lady of Light Parish, Fort Myers; St. John XXIII Parish, Fort Myers; St. Thomas More Parish, Sarasota;
July 13-18 – St. Joseph Parish, Bradenton; Epiphany Cathedral, Venice; Our Lady Queen of Heaven Parish, LaBelle;
July 20-25 – Our Lady of the Angels Parish, Lakewood Ranch; St. Peter the Apostle Parish, Naples.

Faith is fun! Register your children through the hosting Parish! For more information, or with questions, visit Totus Tuus 2025 – Diocese of Venice or contact Andres Prias, prias@dioceseofvenice.org.

Ave Maria Youth Conference July 11-13

The 2025 Ave Maria University “Proclaim” Youth Conference is July 11-13. The theme for the Conference is “But as for you, go and proclaim the Kingdom of God” (Luke 9:60). The Conference will include talks from Sister Maria Jose Socias, SCTJM, Michael Gormley, Mari Pablo, and Father Joseph Lugalambi. Music will be by Epic Music Ministries. The Conference will include Mass, Adoration, praise and worship, lodging, meals, t-shirts, a pizza night, and more. Registration is $195. per person. For more information or to register, please visit aveconferences.com/.

Priest of Venice Diocese ordained as bishop for the military archdiocese

Posted on May 16, 2025May 16, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Auxiliary Bishop Gregg M. Caggianelli becomes the first U.S. bishop ordained after election of Pope Leo XIV

Jean Gonzalez – The Florida Catholic

After witnessing her son vested in episcopal garb, Barbara Caggianelli began to cry happy tears as she said, “Thank you God.”

The emotional moment was one of many for a local priest described as a wonderful son, great preacher, and man of God with a deep sense of prayer, who became ordained as a bishop to serve the Armed Forces.

For three decades, Father Gregg M. Caggianelli had served in the military as a chaplain and active reservist, earning the rank of colonel in the U.S. Air Force. On May 9, 2025, he became the first U.S. bishop ordained after election of Pope Leo XIV. Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio of the Military Services, USA, ordained the Diocese of Venice priest as an auxiliary bishop for the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, at St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary in Boynton Beach, where the new bishop has served for years as a priest, professor and administrator.

“I’ve been in the military longer than I’ve been in the seminary so it’s my two worlds colliding,” Bishop Caggianelli said after his ordination.

Along with serving as a professor of homiletics, Bishop Caggianelli served as dean of formation, which he said gave him the heart to care about how the priests are doing, “especially our military chaplains who are isolated, by themselves.” His role to encourage the priests “to encourage love among their people” will continue in his role as episcopal shepherd. In that sense, he said the Parable of the Good Shepherd has even more meaning as a bishop.

“Whenever we are given a new challenge, a new responsibility, new opportunity, it is Jesus calling us to go deeper, really calling all of us to go into deeper waters to trust him more, to follow him, and to proclaim that he is risen from the dead,” Bishop Caggianelli said. “I love (the servicemembers) very much. I’m inspired by their service and their dedication.”

In his homily, Archbishop Broglio spoke about the divided secular world, where life after death, judgement, truth and even the existence of God are questioned. Many times, the impact of the Gospel is diminished. He urged his “little brother” to take the words of Pope Leo XIV to heart when he said we are called to unity and to mission.

“Those must remain special watchwords to you,” the archbishop said. “Jesus praised that the disciples be enveloped in the father’s love, which makes them holy and empowers them for their mission in the world.”

Archbishop Broglio spoke about the symbols of the new office given during the ordination — the ring, mitre and crozier. He said while the symbols draw attention during events and Mass, they should not draw attention away from Jesus Christ, who is always the “center of our attention and the object of our life pilgrimage.”

“With mitre, staff and ring, embrace the people and lead them to that kingdom that does not pass away. Consecrate them in the truth for his grace is sufficient for us.”

Unity and mission should be at the forefront of ministry among servicemembers, which will be challenging the archbishop shared. As one of five auxiliary bishops now serving with Archbishop Broglio, they bring the Gospel to 1.8-million Catholics worldwide in all branches of the U.S. Military and those hospitalized in the nation’s VA medical centers or working for the government as civilians beyond U.S. borders. That translates to miles to travel, many communities to visit, and “misunderstandings to clarify.” But the mission is steadfast: To respond to the “special challenge to stir to flame the gift of God that stirs in us first in the waters of baptism.”

“We are challenged to rekindle the faith of so many men and women who have drifted away and whose embers of faith have grown cold. Be a father to them and draw them back into the life of grace,” the archbishop said.

Bishop Caggianelli was ordained as a priest of the Diocese of Venice, and its own episcopal shepherd, Bishop Frank J. Dewane served as a co-consecrator, along with David L. Toups of Beaumont, Texas, former rector of the Boynton Beach seminary. Among the other bishops who laid hands upon the priest’s head invoking the Holy Spirit were prelates of the Military Archdiocese and from across Florida, including Archbishop Thomas Wenski of Miami, Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito of Palm Beach, Bishop William Wack, CSC, of Pensacola-Tallahassee, retired Bishop Felipe Estevez of St. Augustine, and Auxiliary Bishop Enrique Delgado of Miami.

“Bishop Gregg, welcome to the episcopal brotherhood,” Bishop Wack said, describing the newly ordained as a hard worker but very down to earth, and a joyful person.”

Sitting with the new bishop on the altar were Father Alfredo I. Hernández, rector and president of the seminary, and Msgr. Robert R. Cannon, retired chaplain for the U.S. Air Force and a fellow priest of the Diocese of Venice. Bishop Caggianelli credited Msgr. Cannon for encouraging his discernment of priestly vocation.

With his experience as a chaplain, as a serviceman himself and as a professor, Msgr. Cannon said his friend’s appointment was a “perfect fit.”

“We have been dear friends for very long time,” said Msgr. Cannon, who previously served as chancellor for the Military Archdiocese. “He’s very funny and has a great sense of humor. He works hard, he loves Jesus, he’s smart. He loves people. He will be a fine bishop.”

After completing the semester at the seminary, Bishop Caggianelli will stay local even though he is now incardinated in the Archdiocese for the Military Services. He will serve military installations across the state of Florida.

The seminary lived-streamed the celebration on social media where it can still be viewed at https://www.svdp.edu/live or https://www.facebook.com/SVdPSem.

Earlier version of story

BOYNTON BEACH | Gregg M. Caggianelli was ordained an auxiliary bishop for the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, at St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary, where the new bishop — an active reservist and colonel in the U.S. Air Force —vhas served for years as a priest, professor and administrator.

Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, of the Military Services, celebrated the ordination through the laying of hands and the invocation of the Holy Spirit. He anointed the new bishop’s head with oil, placed the bishop’s ring on his right ring finger, and presented him with the miter and crosier under the prayerful gaze of a packed congregation in St. Vincent’s Chapel.

In his homily, noting that “the secular age has blinded many to the idea of truth, life after death, and judgment,” Archbishop Broglio implored Bishop Caggianelli to spread the truth of the Gospel: “Pope Leo has called us to unity and mission. As the first U.S. bishop ordained after his election, those must remain special watchwords for you. To borrow from Saint John Neumann, if we have accepted the truth of Christ and committed our lives to him, there can be no separation between what we believe and the way we live our lives. Our every thought, word, and action must be directed to the glory of God and the spread of his kingdom…. With miter, staff, and ring, embrace this people and lead them to that kingdom that does not pass away. Consecrate them in the truth, for His grace is sufficient for you.”

Prior to the ordination, Bishop Caggianelli, 57, made a public profession of Catholic faith, and he took the oath of fidelity. His ordination brings to five the number of auxiliary bishops now serving with Archbishop Broglio in his ministry to 1.8-million Catholics worldwide in all branches of the U.S. Military and those hospitalized in the nation’s VA medical centers or working for the government as civilians beyond U.S. borders.

Dozens of priests and bishops — including the co-consecrators Bishops Frank J. Dewane of Venice and David L. Toups of Beaumont, Texas — were on hand at the celebration along with family and friends of the new bishop. Along with Bishop Dewane, Florida prelates on hand included Archbishop Thomas Wenski of Miami, Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito of Palm Beach, Bishop William Wack, CSC, of Pensacola-Tallahassee, retired Bishop Felipe Estevez of St. Augustine, and Auxiliary Bishop Enrique Delgado of Miami.

Sitting with the new bishop on the altar were Father Alfredo I. Hernández, rector and president of the seminary, and Msgr. Robert R. Cannon, retired chaplain for the U.S. Air Force and AMS chancellor. Both Msgr Cannon and Bishop Caggianelli served as priests of the Diocese of Venice. Bishop Caggianelli credited Msgr. Cannon for encouraging his discernment of priestly vocation.

The seminary lived-streamed the celebration on social media where it can still be viewed at https://www.svdp.edu/live or https://www.facebook.com/SVdPSem.

Permanent Diaconate Ordination May 31 in Naples

Posted on May 16, 2025May 16, 2025 by Bob Reddy

Soon, 11 men from across the Diocese of Venice will each kneel before Bishop Frank J. Dewane and be ordained to the Permanent Diaconate.

The ordination is at 10 a.m., May 31, 2025, at St. Agnes Parish, 7775 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. During the process to become a Permanent Deacon, the 11 men have received training in theology, canon law and pastoral ministry, a discernment and study process that has taken five years.

The men to be ordained are: Richard E. Dahn, St. Agnes Parish; Richard A. Hellenbrand, St. Andrew Parish, Cape Coral; Thomas A. Januszka, St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Parish, Parrish; Stephen L. Jendrysik, Incarnation Parish, Sarasota; James N. Jenkins, St. William Parish, Naples; Ramon R. Kanacheril, St. Vincent de Paul Parish, Fort Myers; Mark A. Osterhaus, St. Agnes Parish; Orlando A. Rubiano, St. Vincent de Paul Parish; Jeff Tenbarge, St. Peter the Apostle Parish, Naples, John-William M. Trainer III, St. Peter the Apostle Parish; and Edward J. Watson, Ave Maria Parish, Ave Maria.

As part of their formation process, each man was admitted by Bishop Dewane as acolytes in 2024 to assist priests and other Permanent Deacons on the altar during Mass. Prior to that, they were admitted as candidates when they publicly declared their intention of becoming Deacons and the Bishop accepted them. They were also instituted as lectors so they could proclaim the Gospel.

To a man, they describe their journey toward ordination as both a challenging and life-changing process which started with answering a call from the Lord they heard deep in their heart. Each also credits their wife and children for supporting and accompanying them on this journey of enlightenment.

The mission of a Permanent Deacon in the Church is to: serve as a minister of charity, address the needs of others and strive to meet those needs; serve as ministers of the Word, when they proclaim the Gospel, preaching and teaching; serve as ministers of the Sacrament of Baptism; witness marriages; conduct wake and graveside services; and lead the faithful in prayer.

All are invited and encouraged to attend. The livestream of the Ordination will be available at https://www.facebook.com/StAgnesNaples, and stagnesnaples.org.

Diocese Seminarian ordained as Transitional Deacon in Vatican

Posted on October 15, 2024 by Bob Reddy

Diocese of Venice Seminarian Joseph Doherty took a major step toward his dream of becoming a priest when he was ordained to the Transitional Diaconate during a Mass celebrated at the Altar of the Chair of St. Peter, in the Papal Basilica of St. Peter in the Vatican, in Rome, on Oct. 3, 2024.

Celebrated by Most Reverend Alexander Sample, Archbishop of Portland, Oregon, the ordination of 15 men from the Pontifical North American College is one of the final steps toward priesthood.

Present for the ordination were Deacon Doherty’s family as well as Father Alex Pince, Diocesan Director of Vocations.

Following the ordination, Deacon Doherty expressed his joy at reaching this moment in his spiritual journey, hardly believing the experience of being ordained as a servant of the Universal Church in St. Peter’s Basilica.

During the ordination, the Deacons promised to live a life of prayer, celibacy, and obedience to their Diocesan Bishops. As part of the ordination Rite, the Bishop placed the Book of Gospels in the hands of each candidate being ordained and said: “Receive the Gospels of Christ, whose herald you have become. Believe what you read, teach what you believe, and practice what you teach.” An additional year of theological study and spiritual formation will follow before the Deacons are ordained to the priesthood in their home Dioceses.

At the ordination Mass, Archbishop Sample encouraged the Deacon Candidates in his homily to remember that everything that a deacon does, everything a priest does, and everything a bishop does, flows from their identity with Jesus Christ who identifies himself as a servant, the suffering servant to whom they as deacons are called to configure themselves.

“The Son of Man does not come to be served but to serve,” said Archbishop Sample. “You are taking on the identity of Christ who laid his life down to serve, to be a slave.” He then went on to say, “I am here to remind you, it is not about you, it is about Jesus Christ who has called you. He has called you to this moment on this day to lay down your lives to himself and his bride, the Church.”

Deacon Doherty was born in Pennsylvania, growing up in a small town outside of Philadelphia. His family lived close to the nearest Catholic church, where he spent increasing amounts of time visiting to pray before the Most Blessed Sacrament, then as a sacristan and a volunteer cleaner. Upon graduating high school, Deacon Doherty studied mathematics, pollical economy and government at Ave Maria University in Florida. Upon graduation, he worked for Hertz Corporation for several years while earning an advanced degree in systems engineering from Penn State University.

Though engineering was a career goal, Deacon Doherty felt continually moved to discern the priesthood, crediting his time in adoration as being formative in encouraging his vocation. This call also grew while teaching youth catechesis and sacramental preparation. Once accepted as a Diocese of Venice seminarian, he completed his philosophy studies at St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary in Boynton Beach before continuing his studies in Rome. He recently earned an advanced theology degree from Pontifical Gregorian University there.

While a seminarian, Deacon Doherty served pastoral assignments at St. Leo the Great Parish in Bonita Springs, St. William Parish in Naples, and St. Francis Xavier Parish in Fort Myers. While in Rome, he did weekly apostolate work with the Missionaries of Charity and Notre Dame students. He is a Third-Degree Knight of Columbus and an Eagle Scout, and is expected to be ordained to the priesthood in 2025.

Please pray for Deacon Doherty and each of the Diocese of Venice Seminarians who continue to discern their vocation and develop in formation for the priesthood.

Parishioners from around the Diocese are encouraged to help support the seminarians in their studies and choice of vocation through prayer and financial assistance. Donations can be made by visiting https://dioceseofvenice.org/ways-to-give/ or sent to: Diocese of Venice, Office of Vocations, 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34285.

For more information about the seminarians or Vocations, contact Father Alex Pince at pince@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-486-4720, or visit www.venicevocations.com.

In persona Christi – Ordination brings blessings upon new priest

Posted on June 13, 2024June 13, 2024 by Bob Reddy

In a public response to a “call to holiness” Thomas Gregory Dougherty, 55, was Ordained to the Priesthood by Bishop Frank J. Dewane during a Mass on June 8, 2024, at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Venice.

The poignant and emotional rite places Father Dougherty in a new role as he is raised to the Order of the Presbyterate where he will now celebrate the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, confer the Sacraments and teach the Gospel. The ordination fell on the Memorial of the Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary, chosen by Father Dougherty because has a strong devotion to Our Lady. The location was changed to Our Lady of Lourdes due to the ongoing reconstruction of Epiphany Cathedral.

Following his ordination, Father Dougherty said the entire experience was otherworldly and beautiful. “Praise be to God; I can’t think of a better way of entering into the priesthood than through the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary,” noting the Memorial to the Sacred Heart of Jesus took place on June 7.

Bishop Dewane congratulated the ordinand for answering the call to holiness and advancing in formation through prayer, discernment, guidance and direction which helped him grow closer to the Lord. Through the Sacrament of Holy Orders, the ordinand is called to reflect and magnify Christ and bring others closer to Christ. The priesthood was established as coworkers with the Order of Bishops, with whom they are joined in a priestly office, and with whom they are called to the service of the people of God.

“Through ordination you are conformed more fully to Christ, the Son of God,” Bishop Dewane said. “These are words we all need to hear – you are more fully committed to Christ. In receiving the Sacrament, the hard work is still ahead, and it will begin to happen in a more profound way. Focus on that man of prayer you are called to be, it is that prayer which, over and over again, supports the ministerial priesthood and lifts us up. Be open to what it is the Lord asks.”

Bishop Dewane said the change that happens upon priestly ordination is drastic, but he reminded Father Dougherty to let the Lord guide him on his new path, having been chosen by God from among His people and to be anointed on their behalf.

“Fulfill the ministry of Christ. the priest, and do it with joy and with love,” Bishop Dewane said. “You have been blessed with many talents; but know the Lord has an idea of how you are to go about your ministry. In this, strive to gather the faithful into the family, so that you may lead them to God, through Christ.”

When the Rite of ordination began, Dougherty was called forth to the presence of the Bishop by Diocese Director of Vocations Father Alex Pince, and upon hearing his name called out, he answered “Present.” After the homily, Dougherty knelt before the Bishop to promise respect and obedience to him and his successors. Then he lay prostrate before the altar for the Litany of Supplication/Litany of Saints. The whole assembly joined in the prayer which invoked God’s grace and the intercession of the saints in heaven.

After this solemn act of prayer, the Sacrament of Ordination was conferred when Dougherty knelt before Bishop Dewane, who in silent prayer, imposed his hands on the head of the ordinand. In the sharing of the priesthood, each priest present laid their hands on the head of the newly ordained Father Dougherty, one at a time.

The ordinand then knelt once again before the Bishop, who then recited the consecratory Prayer of Ordination; the prayer, together with the Bishop’s imposition of hands, is the essential Rite of the Sacrament of Holy Orders.

After the prayer, the newly ordained was vested in the stole and chasuble, vestments which are worn when celebrating the Eucharist and symbolize the responsibility and authority in service to Christ. Father Dougherty was vested by Father Michael Scheip, a retired priest who assists at Incarnation Parish in Sarasota and was a spiritual advisor when Father Dougherty assisted at the Parish while in seminary.

The palms of the new priest were then anointed with the Sacred Chrism by Bishop Dewane, the sign of the special anointing of the Holy Spirit who will make the priest’s ministry fruitful. Next, the Bishop presented Father Dougherty with the chalice and paten which all priests are called to present to God in the Eucharistic sacrifice saying: “Receive the oblation of the holy people, to be offered to God. Understand what you do, imitate what you celebrate, and conform your life to the mystery of the Lord’s Cross.”

The Rite of Ordination ended with the Bishop giving a fraternal kiss of peace to the newly ordained priest, welcoming him into the Diocesan Presbyterate or priesthood. The priests present then followed the Bishop’s example. The newly ordained Father Dougherty then joined Bishop Dewane at the altar to the applause and joy of all present.

The Liturgy of the Eucharist followed. Father Dougherty joined all the priests for the first time in concelebrating the Eucharist with Bishop Dewane, reciting together the words of consecration. For the first time, he offered the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, acting in persona Christi. From this sacrifice his whole priestly ministry will draw its strength.

Although a late vocation, Father Dougherty said he thought about becoming a priest in high school, even enrolling in a minor seminary but never attended because he was conflicted about his decision. He attended Bradley University before going on to graduate from Middle Tennessee State University, becoming an elementary school teacher in Winchester, Tennessee. He transitioned into industrial sales for several years before following the call of God by returning to teaching, developing catechetical programs for Catholic education in Cincinnati, Ohio, just prior to entering seminary at Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary in Weston, Massachusetts.

As a seminarian for the Diocese, Father Dougherty had pastoral assignments at Incarnation Parish in Sarasota and Ss. Peter and Paul the Apostles Parish in Bradenton. While in seminary, Deacon Dougherty’s pastoral assignment was with the Archdiocese of Boston’s Pro-Life Office. Father Dougherty celebrated his first Mass at Incarnation Parish in Sarasota and has been appointed as Parochial Vicar at St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers.

Present for the ordination were two of his siblings, as well as other relatives and friends from his life in Ohio, Tennessee and the seminary in Massachusetts. Among others present were more than 40 priests, including Msgr. Brian R. Kiely, Rector of Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary, men and women religious, Permanent Deacons, Knights and Dames of the Order of Malta, Knights and Dames of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher of Jerusalem, the Knights of Columbus Color Corps, as well as hundreds of the faithful.

The Ordination to the Priesthood is considered one of the most important events in the life of a Diocese as it ensures the continuation of the Church and the availability of the Sacraments to the faithful.

A reception followed in the Parish Hall where Father Dougherty formally greeted the public and imparted his priestly blessing upon them, smiling all the while.

Priestly Ordination June 8 – All invited to witness important moment for Diocese

Posted on May 30, 2024May 30, 2024 by Bob Reddy

The Diocese of Venice relies on dedicated men who have committed their lives to serving God. One such man will be ordained to the priesthood on June 8, 2024, at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Venice.

Transitional Deacon Thomas Gregory Dougherty has completed his priestly formation and has been called to ordination by Bishop Frank J. Dewane, who will be the presiding prelate. The ordination will be 11 a.m., June 8, at Our Lady of Lourdes, 1301 Center Road, Venice, while Epiphany Cathedral undergoes reconstruction.

In addition to Bishop Dewane, the Mass will include a number of priests, deacons, religious, family and friends from across the Diocese.

“This is one of the most beautiful and rarely seen Sacraments in the Church,” Bishop Dewane explained. “It is a public response to the Call to Holiness, which comes with great responsibility and accountability. The Diocese of Venice is blessed that, year after year, men are hearing the call of the Lord, and responding.”

All are welcome and encouraged to attend the Ordination, said Bishop Dewane. “It is important the faithful support each Ordination as the Priest is a future link to the continuation of the Sacraments. This is a life-changing, lifelong commitment and Priests, especially new Priests, need the support and encouragement of the faithful.”

During Ordination to the Priesthood, Deacon Dougherty will freely present himself to serve God, the Church and the Bishop of the Diocese of Venice and his successors. He will also make a renewed commitment to celibacy and promise obedience.

Deacon Dougherty, 55, has been studying at Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary in Weston, Massachusetts, which specializes in formation for later vocations. He was raised in East Dundee, Illinois, a quiet suburb of Chicago. Although a later vocation, Deacon Dougherty said he thought about becoming a priest in high school, even enrolling in a minor seminary but never attended because he was conflicted about his decision. He graduated from Bradley University and Middle Tennessee State University, becoming an elementary school teacher in Winchester, Tennessee. He transitioned into industrial sales for several years before following the call of God by returning to teaching, developing catechetical programs for Catholic education just prior to entering seminary.

“The noise of the world muffled the call for several years, but God directly intervened in my life at the age of 39, which reawakened that call,” Deacon Dougherty said. As a seminarian within the Diocese, Deacon Dougherty has had pastoral assignments at Incarnation Parish in Sarasota and Ss. Peter and Paul the Apostles Parish in Bradenton. While in seminary, Deacon Dougherty’s pastoral assignment was with the Archdiocese of Boston’s Pro-Life Office.

Deacon Dougherty said he is humbled by all that the ordination means. “I have a strong devotion to Our Lady of Fatima and am active in spreading that devotion to others. I look forward to the day I will serve Holy Mother Church as a priest. This opportunity is truly a blessing, and I am overwhelmed by God’s grace and mercy through the generosity of Bishop Dewane and the many others who have made this journey possible.”

While Deacon Doughtery will be ordained on June 8, there are still other men in the Diocese of Venice who are at various stages in their priestly formation, either in college or at a seminary where they continue their studies toward the ordained priesthood. The Diocese of Venice asks that the faithful remember Deacon Dougherty, and all those discerning priesthood, in their prayers.

Parishioners are encouraged to help support Diocesan seminarians in their studies and choice of vocation. To contribute to the education of seminarians, send a check to the Diocese of Venice, Office of Vocations, 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34285 or visit the website at www.dioceseofvenice.org/ways-to-give.

For those considering a vocation to the priesthood or religious life, please visit www.venicevocations.org, or contact Diocesan Director of Vocations, Father Alex Pince at pince@dioceseofvenice.org.

News Briefs for the week of May 24, 2024

Posted on May 30, 2024May 30, 2024 by Bob Reddy

Vote No on 4! Spread the word.

To learn the facts about Amendment 4 and how it is designed to mislead voters, visit the websites of the Florida Voters Against Extremism, tooextreme4fl.com, the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops, https://flaccb.org/, and the Diocese of Venice Respect Life Office, dioceseofvenice.org/respectlife. To get involved and help defeat this dangerous pro-abortion amendment, contact Jeanne Berdeaux, Diocese of Venice Director of Respect Life, berdeaux@dioceseofvenice.org, 941-374-1068.

Students meet pen pals

Third grade students at St. Joseph Catholic School in Bradenton had the opportunity to meet their cursive pen pals from nearby Ss. Peter and Paul the Apostles Parish at a year-end party on May 16, 2024. As part of this enrichment, students and volunteers exchanged letters that would then help develop the penmanship skills of the third graders. It was a wonderful experience for all involved, and they enjoyed a fun-filled celebration with great conversations and lots of smiles.

Urgent need for sidewalk counselors and prayer partners in Fort Myers and Naples

As the weather turns hotter there is an urgent need for sidewalk counselors and prayer partners to provide coverage to stand as peaceful witnesses for life at the Planned Parenthood abortion facilities at 6418 Commerce Park Drive, Fort Myers. and 1425 Creech Road, Naples. No training is necessary to be a prayer partner – just bring a hat and a rosary. For those interested in counseling, training and necessary resource materials will be provided. In addition, during this process an experienced counselor will be present. Prayer partners and counselors are a vital component in the Pro-Life movement, as they ensure a constant presence in front of abortion facilities, showing that women, and their unborn children, in crisis are not abandoned in their time of need. To learn more details, please call Mary Claire Dant at 239-200-8117.

Ordination to the Priesthood June 8

Bishop Frank J. Dewane invites the faithful to the Ordination to the Priesthood of Transitional Deacon Thomas Gregory Dougherty. The Ordination will take place at 11 a.m., Saturday, June 8, 2024, at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, 1301 Center Road, Venice. All are welcome and encouraged to attend this important event in the life of Deacon Greg as well as the Diocese of Venice. A reception will follow in the Parish Hall.

Totus Tuus, Parish Catechetical Summer Program coming soon

The Totus Tuus Parish Catechetical Summer Camp program, open to grades 1-12, will be available in the Diocese of Venice again this summer beginning in June 2024. Totus Tuus 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. All camps are one-week day camps, and programs are divided according to age. Youth are welcome to attend any of the Totus Tuus camps, but registration is requested ahead of time. Parishes hosting Totus Tuus this year are: St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, Parrish, and Our Lady of Grace, Avon Park (June 2-7); Ave Maria, Ave Maria (June 9-14); St. Finbarr, Naples, and St. Paul, Arcadia (June 16-21); Epiphany Cathedral, Venice, and St. Katharine Drexel, Cape Coral (June 23-28); Our Lady Queen of Heaven, LaBelle (July 7-12); Our Lady of Light, Fort Myers, and St. Cecilia, Fort Myers (July 14-19); Our Lady of the Angels, Lakewood Ranch, and St. Peter the Apostle, Naples (July 21-26). To register, contact the hosting Parish directly. Parish contact information can be found at https://dioceseofvenice.org/find-a-parish/. For general questions about the Diocesan Totus Tuus program, please visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/totustuus2024/, or contact Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

Retreat For Mothers Grieving the Loss of a Child

Red Bird Ministries, a non-profit Catholic grief support ministry, is hosting a Grieving Mother’s Retreat from June 7 – 9, 2024, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 South Moon Drive, Venice. This retreat is for women who have experienced the loss of a child at any age, from pregnancy through adulthood. Mothers will be helped in addressing the profound healing that needs to happen while also honoring the memory of the child throughout their grief journey. Please visit www.redbird.love/revival for information and registration.

Ave Maria Youth Conference registration open

All high school age youth from incoming freshman to outgoing seniors are invited to attend the 15th Annual Ave Maria University High School Youth Conference, “CALLED,” from July 12 – 14, 2024. This faith-filled weekend will be full of fellowship, music, and great speakers, including Father Timothy Anastos from the Diocese of Chicago who is currently serving as a National Eucharistic Preacher and featured regularly on “Reel Homilies”, Noelle Garcia a Catholic recording artist who shares her faith through scripture and music, nationally known chastity speaker Pam Stenzel, and Father Joseph Lugalambi, Adjunct Professor of Theology at Ave Maria University. Music will be provided by EPIC Music Ministries. The cost is $190 per person, which includes lodging in the dorms, meals, conference fee, and a cool t-shirt! Register now by visiting https://www.aveconferences.com/called-youth-conference-july-2024. For more information call 239- 348-4725, or email aveconferences@gmail.com.

News Briefs for the week of May 10, 2023

Posted on May 9, 2024May 9, 2024 by Bob Reddy

Catholic Center hosts prayer service for Blessed Virgin

The staff of the Diocese of Venice Catholic Center took part in a prayer service, led by Bishop Frank J. Dewane, honoring the Blessed Virgin Mary on May 8, 2024. Bishop Dewane noted how the month of May is dedicated to Our Lady and it is appropriate to honor her seeking the Blessed Virgin’s intercession on our behalf. During the prayer service, the Catholic Center staff prayed Litany of Our Lady of Loretto, the Hail Mary, and sang the Salve Regina.

Pro-Life training sessions May 13 and 15

If you’d like to volunteer to help educate people on the truth about the pro-abortion amendment on the November ballot, plan to attend a training opportunity within the Diocese of Venice in May (one of two). The first training is Monday, May 13, 2024, from 11:45 a.m. to 3 p.m., at St. Patrick Parish Hall (new location), 7900 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota. The second session is also from 11:45 a.m., Wednesday, May 15, at St. John XXIII Parish Center, 13060 Palomino Lane, Fort Myers. Lunch will be included at both sessions. Register online at www.LeadershipInstitute.org/Florida for either session. If you have questions, please contact Jeanne Berdeaux at 941-374-1068 or Berdeaux@dioceseofvenice.org.

Students learn about business and finances

Fourth and fifth grade students from St. Martha Catholic School in Sarasota took part in a school trip to experience a day in the workplace at JA BizTown in Tampa on April 30, 2024. JA BizTown combines in-class learning with a day-long visit to a simulated town where students receive hands-on experience as both employees and consumers, paying rent, taxes and utilities, purchasing insurance, depositing paychecks and buying other business products, handling customer service, and more. The interactive, project-based program not only teaches students how to manage their own personal finances and the importance of becoming a successful professional within the community, but it also empowers them to take responsibility for their professional and educational futures.

Fort Myers Catholic youth to participate in national Spelling Bee

The faithful of St. Cecilia Parish in Fort Myers will be cheering on one of their own during the 96th Scripps National Spelling Bee from May 28-30, 2024. David Nicasio, 13, who is an active member of St. Cecilia, as an altar server, lector, as well as in the middle school and youth groups, won a series of local competitions to qualify as one of 245 students from across the nation to reach the national Spelling Bee. The competition has four levels: preliminaries, quarterfinals, semifinals, and finals. The competition will air on the ION network from 8-10 p.m. May 29 and 30. The earlier rounds will be available on ION Plus, a digital platform. Just for making the National Spelling Bee, David will receive a number of gifts and prizes related to learning. Prizes increase to a top prize of $50,000 and a championship trophy for the winner.

Retreat For Mothers Grieving the Loss of a Child

Red Bird Ministries, a non-profit Catholic grief support ministry is hosting a Grieving Mother’s Retreat from June 7 – 9, 2024, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 South Moon Drive, Venice. This retreat is for women who have experienced the loss of a child from pregnancy through adulthood. Mothers will be helped in addressing the profound healing that needs to happen while also honoring the memory of the child throughout their grief journey. Please visit www.redbird.love/revival for information and registration.

Ordination to the Priesthood June 8

Two seminarians ordained to Transitional Diaconate

Posted on April 18, 2024 by Bob Reddy

Jacob (Jake) Christian Gwynn and William Patrick (Pat) Long were ordained to the Transitional Diaconate on Saturday, April 13, 2024. The pair followed different calls of the Lord in their lives, but their answers were the same, leading the two Diocese of Venice seminarians on a journey toward the priesthood.

Deacons Gwynn and Long were among 10 ordained at St. Joan of Arc Parish in Boca Raton by Most Rev. Gerald M. Barbarito, Bishop of the Diocese of Palm Beach. The men, from different Dioceses across Florida, are studying at either St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary in Boynton Beach or Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary in Weston, Massachusetts.

Following his ordination, Deacon Gwynn said, “The theme that was said many times on my day of ordination continues to resound in my heart today: ‘This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad’ (Ps 118:24). I am eternally grateful for the call to serve the Lord and His people through the ministry of the Diaconate and eventually as a priest!”

Deacon Long said the ordination brought “tremendous peace, joy and gratitude; gratitude to God for His great love, and for the opportunity to share that love with many as a newly ordained Deacon in His Church.”
The first of three ranks of ordained ministry in the Church, Deacons perform many services to the Church in conjunction with the ministries of priests and Bishops. Among their many duties, they will preach, perform baptisms, witness marriages, and preside over wakes and funerals.

Bishop Barbarito opened by giving thanks to the Lord for calling the ordinandi to the ministry of Holy Orders in service to all, and then by giving thanks to each of the men and their supporters.

“We also give thanks to each of them for discerning and accepting the call of the Lord, as well as to all of you, their family members and friends in supporting them in their discernment,” the Bishop said.

To the men, Bishop Barbarito stressed the importance of the day, after years of prayer and preparation.

“Holy Orders is the ordering of our lives toward Christ… Today, you will make three significant promises to Him and to His Church which will intimately affect your lives – a lifelong commitment of celibacy; to prayer; and to the service of Church as expressed in obedience. All of them become one in handing yourselves over to the Lord completely and totally.”

Following the homily, the men approached Bishop Barbarito one-by-one, knelt and promised respect and obedience, each to his own Bishop and his successors. To signify humble submission before God, the men then lay prostrate in the sanctuary while the assembly sang the Litany of Saints. The faithful remained standing during the Litany as the ordination took place during the Easter Season.

Each man again approached the Bishop who imposed his hands on the candidate and proclaimed a prayer of consecration, to confer the Holy Spirit to guide their ministries. This is the moment the men were ordained. The Deacons then received a stole and dalmatic (the exterior garb of a deacon), signifying the Office of Diaconate and the deacon’s role in the celebration of the Eucharist.

Next, the newly ordained Deacons knelt before the Bishop who presented them each with the Book of the Gospels, and said: “Receive the Gospels of Christ, whose herald you have become. Believe what you read, teach what you believe, and practice what you teach.” The receiving of the Book of Gospels is a symbol of their new ministry of proclaiming the Gospel and preaching. The Rite of Ordination concluded with the fraternal kiss of peace.

Deacon Gwynn is studying at St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary, having graduated from St. John Vianney College Seminary in Miami in 2020. Born and raised in Palmetto, Deacon Jake is the third of four children. Deacon Jake recalls that becoming a priest was one of his earliest aspirations. One of his mentors from a young age was Msgr. Joseph Ferraro, a retired priest who also served as a U.S. Navy Chaplain, who inspired him to pursue a path to not only the priesthood but also in the Navy Chaplaincy. Following that inspiration, he was sworn in as an officer of the U.S. Navy in 2021 and is currently a Lt. (j.g), in the U.S. Navy Reserves.

As a Diocesan seminarian, Deacon Gwynn has had summer assignments at the following Parishes: St. William in Naples, St. Agnes in Naples; Our Lady of Lourdes in Venice; and Our Lady of Grace in Avon Park. He served a pastoral year at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice. In addition, he has taken part in the Navy Officer Development School and later the Navy Chaplain Basic Leadership School, both in Newport, Rhode Island. Deacon Gwynn is pursuing his priesthood for the Diocese of Venice and the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA. Deacon Gwynn was vested by Deaon Craig Dutka of Holy Cross Parish in Palmetto.

Deacon Long has been studying at St. John XXIII National Seminary in Massachusetts which specializes in formation for later vocations. Born in St. Louis, Missouri, but raised in Sarasota, the second of six children, Deacon Pat is a graduate of St. Martha Catholic School and Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School in Sarasota. He graduated with a degree from Florida State. While pursuing a marketing career in the health care industry, he kept ties to the faith as an Extraordinary Minister of the Eucharist, religious education teacher, youth group leader and in Pro-Life work. Feeling God was calling him to the priesthood, with the help of a spiritual director he opted to enter seminary. As a seminarian for the Diocese of Venice, Deacon Long served at Incarnation Parish in Sarasota, St. Martha Parish in Sarasota, attended the Institute for Priestly Formation at Creighton University in Nebraska, and participated in the Spanish Summer Immersion Program in Guatemala. During his ordination, Deacon Long was vested by Deacon Stephen Beck of Incarnation Parish.

Please pray for these men as they continue their spiritual journey.

Answering the Call – Ordination brings blessings upon new priest

Posted on February 15, 2024February 15, 2024 by Bob Reddy

In a public response to a “call to holiness” Alan Baldarelli Jr., 41, was Ordained to the Priesthood by Bishop Frank J. Dewane during a Mass on Feb. 10, 2024, at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice.

The poignant and emotional rite places Father Baldarelli in a new role as he is raised to the Order of the Presbyterate where he will now celebrate the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, confer the Sacraments and teach the Gospel.

“The call for you today is to configure yourself to Christ,” the Bishop said. “It is really for everyone, but for those in the priesthood, there is a particular call to follow in the footsteps and likeness of Jesus Christ as we strive in our humanness to serve the Lord and to be that representative of Christ here on earth.”

Joined to the priesthood, Bishop Dewane said Father Baldarelli is consecrated as a true priest in the New Testament, to preach the Gospel, to shepherd God’s people, and to celebrate Divine Worship – the Holy Sacrifice at the Table of the Lord. By being raised to the Order of the Priesthood, the new priest will exercise the sacred office of teaching – to impart the Word of God upon the world. A priest is called upon to live that life as an example of holiness for others to follow as they invite the faithful to enter into the mystery of the Lord’s death, and to journey with them, pointing always in the direction of the resurrection. This holiness is not developed overnight but is a continual part of the priestly journey.

“It is the joy of that Word that gives inspiration to the people of God, to hear it, to be encouraged to live it, to let it resonate,” the Bishop said. “The life of a priest is to exemplify that Word of the Lord – as we go out – to live, to teach. Keep the example of the one who came to serve and not be served.”

“In the ministering of the Sacraments, be always kind and gentle, aware of following in the footsteps of our Savior Jesus Christ. This is a role that has been given in the Sacrament of Holy Orders, in the saving of those with whom we have contact. May you be blessed with the ability to call others closer to the Lord.”

When the Rite of ordination began, Baldarelli was called forth to the presence of the Bishop by Diocese Director of Vocations Father Shawn Roser, and upon hearing his name called out, he answered “Present.” After the homily, Baldarelli knelt before the Bishop to promise respect and obedience to him and his successors. Then he lay prostrate before the altar for the Litany of Supplication/Litany of Saints. The whole assembly joined in the prayer which invoked God’s grace and the intercession of the saints in heaven.

After this solemn act of prayer, the Sacrament of Ordination was conferred when Baldarelli knelt before Bishop Dewane, who in silent prayer, imposed his hands on the head the ordinand. In the sharing of the priesthood, each priest present laid their hands on the head of the newly ordained Father Baldarelli, one at a time.

After the prayer, the newly ordained was vested in the stole and chasuble, vestments which are worn when celebrating the Eucharist and symbolize the responsibility and authority in service to Christ. Father Baldarelli was vested by Father Dennis Gonzales, who was is a Pastor at St. Vincent Ferrer Parish in Delray Beach, and served as a spiritual advisor when Father Baldarelli assisted at the Parish while in seminary.

The palms of the new priest were then anointed with the Sacred Chrism by Bishop Dewane, the sign of the special anointing of the Holy Spirit who will make the priest’s ministry fruitful. Next, the Bishop presented Father Baldarelli with the chalice and paten which all priests are called to present to God in the Eucharistic sacrifice saying: “Receive the oblation of the holy people, to be offered to God. Understand what you do, imitate what you celebrate, and conform your life to the mystery of the Lord’s Cross.”

The Rite of Ordination ended with the Bishop giving a fraternal kiss of peace to the newly ordained priest, welcoming him into the Diocesan Presbyterate or priesthood. The priests present then followed the Bishop’s example. The newly ordained Father Baldarelli then joined Bishop Dewane at the altar to the applause and joy of all present.

The Liturgy of the Eucharist followed. Father Baldarelli joined all the priests for the first time in concelebrating the Eucharist with Bishop Dewane, reciting together the words of consecration. For the first time, he offered the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, acting in persona Christi. From this sacrifice his whole priestly ministry will draw its strength.

Present for the ordination were his parents and four siblings, as well as other relatives and friends. In addition, present were more than 40 priests, men and women religious, Permanent Deacons, Knights and Dames of the Order of Malta, Knights and Dames of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher of Jerusalem, the Knights of Columbus, as well as hundreds of the faithful.

Originally from Hermitage, Pennsylvania, Father Baldarelli grew up in a loving, faith-filled family. He went on to earn a degree in international business from John Carroll University before working in sales and marketing in various corporate jobs. Not satisfied with the path his life was on, a stray comment from a family friend that he should consider becoming a priest began his path to the priesthood and while working at a university job, he began taking courses on Sacred Scripture.

An annual visitor to Southwest Florida with his family from a young age, Father Baldarelli sought to become a seminarian for the Diocese of Venice. His formation took place at St. John Vianney College Seminary in Miami and then at St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary in Boynton Beach. He was ordained as a Transitional Deacon in 2022.

With an easy smile in all humility, on Feb. 11 Father Baldarelli was very emotional while celebrating his first Mass at St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Port Charlotte. St. Charles Borromeo is where Father had been on pastoral assignment as a Transitional Deacon in the time leading up to his priestly ordination. Father thanked the faithful for their prayers and encouragement while he served the community.

“It is so profound to be able to do this for Christ and for all of you,” Father Baldarelli said of celebrating the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. “This was an imperfectly perfect celebration. We all make mistakes; we trip, we fall, we get back up, but God brushes us off and we are able to go out and be reinvigorated, proclaiming that Jesus is Lord and Savior.”

As a seminarian, Father Baldarelli served pastoral assignments at Holy Cross in Palmetto, St. Paul in Arcadia, St. William in Naples, Our Lady Queen of Heaven in Labelle, Epiphany Cathedral in Venice, as well as at St. Charles Borromeo.

The Ordination to the Priesthood is considered one of the most critical events in the life of the Diocese as it ensures the continuation of the Church and the availability of the Sacraments to the faithful.

A reception followed in the Cathedral Parish Hall where Father Baldarelli formally greeted the public and imparted his priestly blessing upon them, smiling all the while.