Tag: priest

Punta Gorda Pastor dies

Posted on by Bob Reddy

The Diocese of Venice is mourning the death of Father Jerome “Jerry” P. Kaywell, who served as Pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Punta Gorda since 2008. Father Kaywell passed away unexpectedly on Feb. 23, 2026, at the age of 72.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane expressed his profound sadness at the loss of Father Kaywell, who served in the Diocese of Venice for 35 years.

“Let us keep the soul of Father Jerry in our prayers. Father participated in many important moments in the pastoral and sacramental life of his parishioners. Baptisms, first communions, weddings, and funerals, he has been there for it all,” Bishop Dewane remarked. “He was a priest of many talents who shared his love for the Lord with all who knew him. May he rest in peace!”

Bishop Dewane also expresses his deepest condolences to Father Kaywell’s family as well as to the staff and parishioners of Sacred Heart Parish who, are also suffering from this great loss. “Know you are in my prayers during this difficult time, and may you find comfort in the knowledge that Father Jerry is now on his journey to Our Lord.”

Father Kaywell was appointed Administrator of Sacred Heart Parish in 2004 and that same year the Parish church was destroyed by Hurricane Charley. Father quickly took on the necessary work for rebuilding the church, including hosting a benefit concert and creating an album “After Charley,” which raised funds for the Parish’s and community’s hurricane recovery. A new church was dedicated and blessed by Bishop Dewane on Nov. 23, 2008, and at that time Father Kaywell was named Pastor. In 2022, during Hurricane Ian, the Parish Center and rectory were flooded and suffered severe damage which took nearly two years to repair.

Parishioners of Sacred Heart posted messages of condolence on social media, with many remembering how Father Kaywell was so full of life and joy as well as for always having a smile. Known for his two great passions in life, many stated how generous he was in sharing his love of God as well as for his broad musical talents.

Born in 1953 in West Palm Beach, and one of five children, Father Kaywell discerned early in life a religious vocation, entering a Franciscan monastery at age 17, first graduating from St. Francis College in Loretto, Pennsylvania, and then studying at St. Francis Seminary, also in Loretto. In 1975, he left religious life shortly after releasing his first album to perform in a band with his brother, eventually moving to California, where he was involved in youth ministry and professional songwriting for advertising and television for more than a decade.

The future Father Kaywell then returned to seminary in 1984 at which time he was diagnosed with lymphatic cancer. While battling cancer, he managed to record the 1986 Grammy-winning gospel album “Let My People Go” with The Winans.

He then continued his studies at St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary in Boynton Beach and was ordained on Oct. 25, 1991, at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice. Father Kaywell served as Parochial Vicar at St. Andrew Parish in Cape Coral from 1991-1998, then as Parochial Vicar at St. John the Evangelist Parish in Naples from 1999-2004, before his appointment to Sacred Heart.

Father Kaywell was St. Vincent de Paul Society Chaplain for the Sacred Heart Conference. In his early years as a priest, Father performed at concerts to help raise money for Catholic education throughout the Diocese. Father Kaywell continued to produce music while a priest and released his latest album in 2020.

Father Kaywell is survived by two sisters, two brothers and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will take place 4-7 p.m., Wednesday, March 11, at Sacred Heart Parish, 211 W. Charlotte Ave., Punta Gorda. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 10 a.m., March 12.

Please pray for the repose of the soul of Father Jerome Kaywell and the consolation of his family. May the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Fort Myers priest becomes a U.S. citizen

Posted on by Bob Reddy

After months of study, Father Jayabalan “Jay” Raju, Pastor of St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers, was sworn in as a U.S. citizen during a naturalization ceremony on Jan. 6, 2026.

The ceremony included a few dozen people joining him in taking an oath of citizenship, saying the Pledge of Allegiance, and singing The National Anthem, and the signing of citizenship papers, all while trying to keep emotions in check while 30 or so well-wishers from the Parish looked on.

“It is such a proud and joyful feeling to become a citizen of this wonderful country,” said Father Raju. Originally from the southeastern part of India, Father has been in the United States since 2014, serving at several Parishes within the Diocese of Venice.

“I am blessed that Bishop (Frank J.) Dewane gave me the honor of an appointment in the Diocese of Venice. It has been a blessing because the people of the Parishes have become my American family,” Father said.

Having lived in the U.S. since 2014, Father Raju said what he most admires is how the country values a democracy that is shared and percolated to all the people, successfully done with built in checks and balances. “That is entirely different from India, which is a different type of democracy, a place where large portions of the people are not treated well by the government.”

Direct credit for completing his citizenship journey from Father goes out to Terry and Walter Janczewski, who were by his side as he made the decision and prepared to become a citizen. Although Walter Janczewski passed away before it became a reality, Father Raju said he couldn’t have done it without the couple’s support, as well as that of many others along the way.

Ordained to the priesthood in 1999, Father’s assignments as a priest included Parishes in India as well as Director of Madurai Multipurpose Social Service Society (Diocesan Catholic Charities), and Deputy Director of the Tamil Nadu Social Service Society (Regional Catholic Charities), also in India. Father Raju’s first visit to the United States was to the Boston area in 2004 where he became friends with Father Michael Gurino and grew to love the rich history of his soon-to-be adopted country. At Father Gurino’s encouragement Father Raju reached out to Bishop Dewane in 2014, seeking and receiving an appointment with the Diocese of Venice.

For the Diocese of Venice, Father Raju has served as a Parochial Vicar at St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Grove City, St. Andrew Parish in Cape Coral, St. Francis Xavier Parish in Fort Myers, and Epiphany Cathedral in Venice, before being appointed as Pastor of St. John XXIII Parish. He was incardinated as a priest of the Diocese of Venice in 2022.

Father Raju noted that he feels particularly blessed about the timing of the ceremony which occurred on the Feast of the Epiphany, the Feast Day for the Cathedral of the Diocese where he was welcomed into the country and assigned for two years. The year is also significant because during 2026 the United States is celebrating the 250th anniversary of its founding.

“It is like it was meant to be,” Father said with a huge smile.

Catholic school cell phone ban a hit

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Recent news about a social media ban for teens under the age of 16 in Australia has sparked a debate about the usage of personal devices across the globe and what implications such restrictions might have on personal freedom.

This debate is not being had at Diocese of Venice Catholic schools simply because cell phones and personal electronic devices are banned. While many students do have school-issued tablets, they are strictly regulated.

This cell phone ban went into effect at all 15 Diocesan Catholic schools at the beginning of the 2025-2026 Academic Year and has had a major impact on the schools’ more than 6,500 students. Pilot programs started at a few schools a year earlier. The feedback on the new policy has been overwhelmingly positive.

“The goal of this policy is to create an environment where both students and faculty can focus on education, interact with their peers, and engage in school activities without distractions caused by personal devices,” stated Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocese of Venice Superintendent of Catholic Education. “We have appreciated the cooperation of parents and students in ensuring a positive and productive school experience for all – it’s working!”

The new policy was created under the direction of Bishop Frank J. Dewane to unify all 15 schools, which were operating under different guidelines for electronic devices, Father Belmonte said. Now implemented, the policy is consistent and enforceable and addresses the use of non-school issued electronic devices, which had become an ever-present distraction to learning, and a drain on teacher motivation, leading to lower retention and decreased engagement.

National education studies revealed that it takes students 20 minutes to regain focus after a nearby cell phone distraction, test scores dropped by 15 points when phones were nearby, and social media use of 3 hours doubles anxiety and depression risks among youth.

The policy applies to all students within the Diocese who bring mobile devices (including, but not limited to, phones, smartwatches, fitness trackers, and any other technology capable of communication or internet access) onto school premises, whether they are in classrooms, hallways, cafeterias, or other areas.

Students who bring mobile phones or wearable devices must store these devices in a Diocesan-approved lockable storage pouch. Bags are locked at the beginning of each school day, and students keep the bag in their possession, whether in a backpack or locker. At the end of the school day, students will pass the bag across the unlocking mechanism to gain access to their phone or other wearable devices.

There are exceptions, such as in the case of special permission granted by school administration (e.g., for medical reasons or specific school activities). In these cases, students must provide the device to the principal’s office at the start of the day and follow guidelines for its use. Students involved in extracurricular activities or after-school programs may use their devices only once they are off school grounds and away from the school premises.

“Of the four schools where the pilot program began, only two of the storage pouches were damaged, four policy violations were reported and zero parent issues or complaints,” Father Belmonte said.

Amy Barron, Principal at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School in Port Charlotte, implemented one of the pilot programs for the YONDR system. YONDR is the company that created a patented pouch and unlocking base that provides a standardized system for all students.

Students arrive at St. Charles Borromeo and pick up their case in homeroom and lock their phone in, Barron explained. At the end of the day, as they are dismissed, they unlock their phones and return the case to their homeroom teacher.

“We are happy to see our students more engaged in their studies and developing more positive social relationships with each other,” Barron said. “While we can’t control what happens outside of our school, banning cell phones in the school limits distractions and allows us to more fully accomplish our mission of bringing our students closer to God and to see the good and beauty in all of His creation and in each other.  It is hard for them to see God’s beauty all around them when their eyes are glued to their phones.”

Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers was another school to implement the pilot program. When asked, students took to the policy very well: “I think it’s easier to stay focused.” “I honestly thought it would be miserable. but it really isn’t that bad.” “I had the opportunity to talk and meet some new people I never really would have talked to.”

Suzie O’Grady, Principal at Bishop Verot, said there was a little resistance among students at first, “but the staff was ecstatic that we eliminated the distraction of phones in the classroom… Student behavior has definitely shifted as a result with fewer issues related to students using their phones during class time or posting things from inside school on social media. We’ve also noticed much more interaction with their peers.”

O’Grady noted that during lunch after the ban was implemented a group of students were playing the card game UNO – something that hasn’t been seen in years. “The cafeteria is livelier, with students engaging in conversation rather than tied to their phones.”

Parent concerns have mostly revolved around what if an emergency happens on campus. Father Belmonte said if there is a school emergency, the students will follow the emergency protocols based on the nature of the emergency.

“Once the students are secure in a safe location, administrators/teachers will have a handheld unlocking device and will unlock pouches so students can contact parents,” Father said. “Additionally, as defined by emergency protocols, administrators/teachers will provide updates to families as available.”

To learn more about Diocese of Venice Catholic schools, please visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/offices/offices-departments/catholicschools/.

Five La Florida martyrs from Diocese geography up for canonization

Posted on by Bob Reddy

As the cause for Martyrs of La Florida Missions, Antonio Inija and 57 companions moves forward, it should be noted that five of the martyrs, including the first Native American martyrs, died during an incident within the bounds of the Diocese of Venice.

 

Lynn Mangan, Vice Postulator for the Cause for La Florida Martyrs, said the “beautiful martyrdom event that took place in the fall of 1696 near or in the Diocese of Venice. The exact location has not been identified by archaeologists. There are five proposed martyrs, Servants of God, in this event, who, along with the other Martyrs of La Florida, are under review in the Roman Phase by the Dicastery of the Causes of Saints.”

 

Mangan said of the five martyrs, sadly, only the name of the priest is known today, Father Luis Sanchez, a Franciscan friar.

 

“Although we do not know the names of these four indigenous martyrs, their stories are known and treasured. Their sacrifice was extraordinary and their gift was no less than that of Father Sanchez,” Mangan said.

 

The perpetrators of the martyrdom event, like the others of La Florida, wanted to stop the Catholic Faith from being planted and growing in the region.

 

Father Sanchez was a Franciscan missionary born in Havana, Cuba, in 1661. Father was aware of the risks of ministering in a territory that had few baptized Christians yet volunteered to go with great charity to love the native people, Mangan explained.

 

Serving among the native Myakka people in an area then known as the Joror region of Florida, south of Orlando near the headwaters of the Kissimmee River, far from the protection of the Spanish in St. Augustine, Father Sanchez endeared himself to people of the area. Not all indigenous people were so receptive.

 

Oct. 9, 1696, a group of natives from a nearby village attacked Father Sanchez as he was preparing for the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass with a native sacristan and altar boy, a young cacique (chief) from the town of Aypaja in the Jororo province. The natives were told to denounce their faith under threat of killing Father Sanchez, but they refused. As they were beaten to death, Father absolved them of their sins.

 

Father Sanchez was then killed, and the assailants tore his bloody habit to pieces. His parishioners came to the site and wept at the loss of their beloved pastor.

 

A few weeks later, following the martyrdom of Father Sanchez and the two Jororo natives, another revolt would claim the lives of two more indigenous men. They were men of the Guale tribe who traveled on foot approximately 300 miles through the winding paths of Florida’s wilderness from about 125 miles north of St. Augustine in what was at least a 19-day journey. All this to evangelize the indigenous people of these lands of central Florida where so few had heard the Good News.

 

The details of the martyrdom are available thanks to the journal of a witness, a Quaker named Johnathan Dickinson. Mangan added that one of the assailants who killed the martyrs, before dying of natural causes, requested baptism before his death.

 

“The Native Americans in this event are the first recorded Native American martyrs in our country,” Mangan said. “Father Sanchez’s martyrdom is honored in a beautiful mural in the National Shrine of Our Lady of Charity in Miami.”

 

The cause for Martyrs of La Florida Missions, Antonio Inija and 57 companions, was initiated through the Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee in 2015 and has been researched as a part of Florida’s Catholic history dating back more than three centuries. The research covers a period from 1549 to 1715 and includes nine Dioceses united in the cause. The martyrdom of the 58 individuals spanned 14 different events. Most were lay people, most Native Americans – as well as priests and brothers from different religious orders. Even an unbron child is listed among the martyrs, and if beatified, will be the first unborn saint. Eight volumes of research have been presented to the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints in Rome and is currently under consideration.

 

To learn more about the Martyrs of La Florida Missions, Antonio Inija and the 57 companions, please visit https://www.martyrsoflafloridamissions.org/.

 

Saints and Souls honored in November 2025

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Happy All Hallows Eve! The final day of October is known by its secular name, Halloween, but it has deep roots that date back to the early Church and as a sacred time to remember the dead, pray for the souls in purgatory, and to reflect on one’s own call to holiness.

 

This was the message Bishop Frank J. Dewane offered during his Oct. 31, 2025, Relevant Radio show “Witnessing Faith with Bishop Dewane.” Bishop Dewane went on to note that All Hallows Eve, All Saint’s Day (Nov. 1), and All Souls’ Day (Nov. 2), form a powerful trio in the life of the Church and the faithful.

 

The Bishop explained how St. Pope Gregory III established the modern-day All Saints Day early in the 8th century and stressed the need to begin the vigil for the solemnity the day before, thus creating All Hallows Eve.

 

“Many modern customs have ancient twists, such as in the early days of the Church, people dressed as saints and devils,” Bishop Dewane explained. “Don’t misunderstand me, the devils were not to glorify evil, but rather to dramatize Christ’s victory over evil.”

 

Even trick-or-treating came from “souling” when children would go to homes to offer prayers for the dead in exchange for “soul cakes,” the Bishop said.

 

“This reminds us Christ truly is the light in darkness,” the Bishop said. “Over time, it became more playful and more secularized and, of course, commercialized. All Catholics are invited to remember and do their best to reclaim the deeper meaning these special days have for us. Halloween doesn’t belong to the world, it began with the Church.”

 

Joining Bishop Dewane on the radio show was Father Leland Thorpe, OMV, Assistant Director of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice.

 

Father Thorpe explained that this year, because the Solemnity of All Saints falls on a Saturday, it is not a Holy Day of Obligation. Even so, he suggested everyone should try to go to Mass.

 

Praying to the saints, particularly on All Saints Day, dates to the early days of the Church. Before it was widely recognized, Christians prayed to the early saints and martyrs by visiting their tombs. It was in the 800s when All Saints Day was created. The timing, Father Thorpe said, coincides with the waning days of the Liturgical Year, a time when it is darker for longer, the seasons are changing, mirroring the end of time.

 

“Saints are sinners who have received God’s mercy,” Father Thorpe said. “They are our brothers and sisters, but they are also God’s masterpieces.”

 

Saints are noted for opening themselves to God’s love and mercy, and by allowing God to work freely within them and through them and they became transformed more perfectly into what Christ was like, Father said. “They show us what the Gospel looks like in any walk of life.”

 

Bishop Dewane said the honoring of the saints should remind us that sainthood is open to everyone, made available at our baptism and awaits our response to the Lord’s call.

 

“Saints are men and women who are reconciled with themselves, with others, and with God,” Bishop Dewane said. “They are really able to shine the light of God’s mercy and love within the world, living through the ebb and flow of everyday life, with their families, at work, or during their free time. They know to live like Jesus and to trust in Him.”

 

All Souls’ Days – Month of All Souls

All Souls Day (Nov. 2), combined with November being dedicated to the Month of All Souls, are also important for the faithful to consider.

 

Father Thorpe explained how the concept of souls waiting to get into heaven – purgatory – is a necessary step for the faithful to ultimately enjoy being in the presence of God.

 

“We need to be transformed and made holy as He is holy – radically purified through and through,” Father said. “We believe that before entrance into heaven there is a last step of purification, a transformation that prepares the heart in order to enjoy God’s glory in heaven; this we call purgatory.”

 

Through the invitation offered with All Souls’ Day, and for all of the month of November, Father Thorpe said we are called to pray for the souls in purgatory, to offer sacrifices, and other pious practices. “We do this in order to assist them in being purified on their way to heaven.”

 

A plenary indulgence is offered in the first eight days of November if one devoutly visits a cemetery, or to pray, even in your own heart, for the departed. The additional requirements remain the same, which is praying for Pope’s intention, going to confession, receiving Holy Communion, and full detachment from sin.

 

“Witnessing Faith with Bishop Dewane” can be heard on Relevant Radio on 1410 AM and 106.7 FM in Fort Myers and 1660 AM and 93.3 FM in Naples at 8:30 a.m. on the last Friday of every month (Oct. 31), or anytime at https://dioceseofvenice.org/our-bishop/.

Blessings for all creatures – great and small

Posted on by Bob Reddy

As the sun rose in front of Incarnation Catholic School in Sarasota Oct. 3, 2025, the sounds of barking, meowing and the stir of critters small and large echoed throughout the gathering area.

It was the eve of the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, which has become synonymous with the “Blessing of Animals.” According to history, the 12th century patron saint of animals and the environment spoke to the animals and treated them as members of his family.

Students of the school and parishioners brought their animals of all different sizes. These animals are cherished and loved as part of their family but also part of God’s creation, explained Pastor Father Eric Scanlan.

Father Scanlan led a brief prayer service which recalls the words of the Old Testament Books of Genesis, Exodus, Kings and Jonah.

As Father Scanlan went through the crowd of students, parents and parishioners, each animal was blessed with Holy Water.

The students shrieked with delight when the Holy Water blessed their animals, including the stuffed animals held closely by the youngest students in pre-kindergarten-3. One student, with a toothy grin, said as she hugged her furry dog, “So happy. I love him so much.”

Similar animal blessings took place at parishes throughout the Diocese including at several of the Catholic Schools on Oct. 3, with St. Joseph Catholic School in Bradenton, St. Francis Xavier Catholic School in Fort Myers and St. Ann Catholic School in Naples, opting to host the pet blessing at the end of the school day.

Meanwhile, most Parishes hosted their “Blessing of the Animals” on Oct. 4, the actual Feast Day. At San Antonio Parish in Port Charlotte, the Knights of Columbus and Lady Columbiettes offered dog treats and bowls for sale.

As the animals were blessed the owners made certain that their precious pets were blessed by the Holy Water.

One proud owner, Nancy Connely, was overjoyed to have her bulldog blessed. “Hank has been part of our family for 12 years. He has trouble getting around, so any extra prayers and blessings are welcomed.”

2025 Diocese of Venice Jubilarians

Posted on by Bob Reddy

50 years

Father Normando Feliz

On September 30, 1946, Father Normando Feliz was born in Barahona, Dominican Republic, to Braudilio Feliz and Alida Mustafa. After receiving his education at St. Thomas Aquinas Seminary, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic; and the Pontifical Institute of Liturgy, Rome. Father Feliz was ordained on January 11, 1975, in Santo Domingo.   Father served in the Dominican Republic as a Navy Chaplain, Pastor, and Seminary Professor of Liturgy, English and Spanish. Father Normando has served in the Diocese of Venice since January 1987 and was incardinated into the Diocese on April 10, 1990. His official appointments included Parochial Vicar at St. Paul Parish, Arcadia, and St. Andrew Parish, Cape Coral; and Pastor of Our Lady Queen of Heaven Parish, LaBelle, and Sacred Heart Parish, Bradenton. From 2000 to 2002 Father Feliz took a sabbatical for Scripture and Theology Studies and Graduate Studies in Canon Law. Between 2002 to 2004, Father served as Diocesan Director of the Department of Ministries. From August 2004 until his retirement in November 2008, Father Feliz served as Pastor of St. Peter the Apostle Parish in Naples.

Father Gregory L. Klein, O. Carm.

Father Gregory L. Klein was born in Buffalo, New York in1947. Father graduated with a bachelor’s degree in 1969 followed by an advanced degree in education in 1973, both from Marquette University/Carmel Hall. On May 24, 1975, Father Greg was ordained to the Priesthood with the Order of Carmelites at Mount Carmel Spiritual Centre in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada. Continuing his studies at the Washington Theological Union/Whitefriars Hall, Washington, D.C., Father Klein earned an additional master’s degree in 1975, and then his doctorate in divinity at the University of St. Mary of the Lake, Mundelein, Illinois, in 1987. Father also served for 11 years at two Carmelite high schools (Kentucky and Illinois), and for 20 years as Professor of Religious Studies at Niagara University, Olean, New York. Since moving to Florida in 2008, Father Klein worked for the Diocese of Venice in several parishes, including as Pastor of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish, Osprey, and assisted at St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Grove City and St. Raphael Parish in Englewood. Following his retirement in 2014, Father provides part-time assistance at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish in Osprey.

Father Michael Mullen

Born in Galway, Ireland in 1948, Father Michael Mullen took his Religious Profession on October 3, 1969, at Kilmurry House in Kilworth, County Cork. Father Michael completed his formations/studies at St. John’s College, County Waterford (Philosophy); the Lateran University in Rome (Theology); and All Hallows College in Dublin, Ireland (Pastoral). Father was ordained to the Priesthood on June 11, 1975, in Oughterard Co., Galway, into the religious community, the Rosminians, formally known as the Institute of Charity. Following his ordination, Father Michael had assignments at St. Patrick’s, Upton, in the Diocese of Tanzania, East Africa; as Formator for the Rosminian Scholasticate in Nairobi; Seminole, Florida; and Galway, Ireland. Father was incardinated into the Diocese of Venice on September 13, 2004. Prior to his incardination into the Diocese of Venice, Father was assigned as Administrator of Sacred Heart Parish, Bradenton; and as Parochial Vicar at St. Francis Xavier Parish, Fort Myers. He later served as Administrator and Pastor of Saint Francis Xavier Parish, and as Pastor of St. Bernard Parish in Holmes Beach from 2010 until he retired on May 1, 2018.

25 years

Father Luis Pacheco

Father Luis Pacheco was born in Miami, and raised in Caracas, Venezuela, from where his family originated. After returning to the United States as a young adult, Father             graduated with an associate’s degree in arts from Miami Dade Community College and then obtained a certificate from the University of Miami in international marketing. While                  attending school, he worked in banking and then bookkeeping in a law office. After hearing the Lord’s call, Father Pacheco returned to Venezuela and was admitted to the seminary. Following eight years in Seminary Formation, Father Luis was ordained to the priesthood on May 13, 2000, the Feast of Our Lady of Fatima. Since October 2002, Father has served in the Diocese of Venice with assignments that include as Parochial Vicar at St. Paul Parish, Arcadia (2002-2005); St. Andrew Parish, Cape Coral (2005-2008); St. Leo the Great Parish, Bonita Springs (2008-2012); Our Lady of Grace Parish, Avon Park (2012-2014); St. Agnes and St. Elizabeth Seton Parishes, Naples (2014-2021). In 2021 Father Pacheco was assigned to St. Paul Parish and has been Pastor since Feb. 23, 2025.

Father Saji Ellickal Joseph, MCBS

Born in Bisonvalley, Kerala State, India, to Joseph Ellickal and Elsamma Thadahil, Father Saji is the middle child of three children. After completing the 10th Grade in 1989, Father joined the Minor Seminary of the Missionary Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament (MCBS), in the city of Athirampuzha. Father Saji was professed a religious on May 17, 1993, and then followed with Philosophy Studies at St. Joseph’s Pontifical Seminary in Kerala. From 1997-2000 Father completed theology studies at St. Joseph’s Pontifical Seminary. Father was ordained on December 27, 2000, at the Provincial House Kottayam, Kerala, India. From 2001-2004 Father was assigned as the manager of a Catholic high school and Pastor of a Parish in the State of Rajasthan, India. For the next two years, Father Saji moved to an assignment as the principal of a Catholic high school and Pastor of a Parish in Mhaswad, in the State of Maharashtra. Following this assignment, Father Saji came to the United States and was a Parochial Vicar in Memphis, Tennessee, from 2007-2017. For the Diocese of Venice, Father served as Parochial Vicar at St. John XXIII in Fort Myers (2017-2022), and since July 2022, has served as Parochial Vicar at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Venice.

25 years

Deacon Richard M. Klish

Deacon Richard M. Klish was born in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1946, to Michael Klish and Amelia Jursinovic Klish. Deacon Klish attended various universities and earned his Ph.D. in 1974 at Michigan State University. In 1983 he graduated from the College of St. Thomas with a M.B.A., followed by three years at St. Paul Seminary in Minnesota, from 1997-2000 in Diaconate Formation. On September 30, 2000, Deacon Klish was ordained at the Cathedral in St. Paul, Minnesota. Married on March 15, 1969, to Barbara Ann (Adams) Klish, the couple have three children, Jennifer Klish (born 1970), Tanya Klish (born 1973) and Meredith Schneider (born 1980). After working as a computer programmer, systems analyst, and manager from 1974-2002, Deacon Richard worked in the Tribunal of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis until his retirement in 2012. As a Deacon, he was assigned to St. John Neumann Parish in Eagan, Minnesota from 2000-2012. Since 2012 Deacon Klish has served for the Diocese of Venice at St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers.

Diocesan priest named Auxiliary Bishop of Archdiocese for Military Services

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Pope Francis named Father Gregg M. Caggianelli, a priest of the Diocese of Venice, as the new Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), on Feb. 21, 2025.

Bishop-elect Caggianelli was ordained in the Diocese of Venice in 2002 and for the Diocese served as Director of Vocations and Seminary Formation (2007-2010), as well as Administrator of St. Francis Xavier Parish in Fort Myers (2010-2013) and Parochial Vicar at Incarnation Parish in Sarasota (2002-2010). Since 2013, he has served at St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary (SVDP) in Boynton Beach, first as an advisor, then professor, and most recently as Vice Rector and Dean of Human Formation, as well as Assistant Professor of Homiletics.

Bishop-elect Caggianelli has also served in the U.S. Air Force in both active duty and reserves since 1990, and is currently a Chaplain Colonel. His Air Force Reserve assignment is at the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where he serves as senior Reserve advisor to the USAFA Chaplain and as senior team leader of the Academy’s Reserve chaplains and religious affairs airmen.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane expressed his gratitude to His Holiness Pope Francis for the appointment of Bishop-elect Caggianelli to the Episcopate and prays that his ministry be filled with blessings and inspiration as he undertakes this new responsibility serving our Lord and our nation.

“It is truly an honor to have a priest of the Diocese of Venice chosen as Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA,” Bishop Dewane said. “I ask that all Priests, Deacons and faithful of the Diocese of Venice share in my joy at this appointment and pray for the successful ministry of Bishop-elect Caggianelli.”

In accepting the new role, Bishop-elect Caggianelli said he was “most humble and grateful for his appointment, while counting his many blessings. He stated: “I am deeply grateful for the unconditional love of my mom and dad. God has blessed me with dear friends who both support me and call me to task when I have failed, and I am grateful to the people of the Diocese of Venice and the men and women I work with at St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary.”

Reflecting on this appointment, Bishop-elect Caggianelli said, “After the initial shock and disbelief, and much time begging for God’s mercy, I was filled with true praise and thanksgiving to God… As I begin this new journey, I look forward to giving my life in service of our Lord in the care of our soldiers, sailors, airmen, coastguardsmen, guardians, veterans and diplomats throughout the world.”

Born Aug. 2, 1968, in Kingston, New York, the Bishop-Elect earned a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering from the University of Michigan in 1990 and received a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Dayton, Ohio, in 1994. He also has a doctorate of ministry in homiletics from the Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis.

Bishop-elect Caggianelli was commissioned in 1990 as a U.S. Air Force line officer serving at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio. After leaving active duty, he entered the Air Force Reserve while completing priestly formation at St. Vincent de Paul regional Seminary, earning a degree in divinity. He was Ordained to the Priesthood on Oct. 25, 2002, at Epiphany Cathedral, Venice, by Most Rev. John J. Nevins, then the Bishop of the Diocese of Venice. He has been an Air Force Reserve Chaplain since 2002.

The Episcopal Ordination of Bishop-elect Caggianelli will occur at a time and place to be set by Most Rev. Timothy P. Broglio, Archbishop for the Military Services, sometime in the next few weeks.

The Archdiocese for the Military Services, based in Washington, serves U.S. Catholics of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Department of Veterans Affairs and those in government service outside the United States. Worldwide, an estimated 1.8 million Catholics depend on the military archdiocese to meet their spiritual and sacramental needs.

New Pastor installed in Arcadia

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Bishop Frank J. Dewane installed Father Luis Pacheco as Pastor of St. Paul Parish in Arcadia on Feb. 23, 2025, in the context of the Mass.

The installation of a new Pastor is like a punctuation mark for the life of the Parish – a new era under the stewardship of Father Pacheco, explained Bishop Dewane .

“We do this installation because a Pastor is called upon to administer to the people of God in their faith life by ministering the sacraments and helping each one of you grow closer to the Lord,” Bishop Dewane said. “Support your new Pastor, and all priests, for theirs is not an easy job. Pray for your Pastor as he serves all of you.”

St. Paul Parish has a rich history in Arcadia that dates back to the 1870s when Jesuit priests would serve the area on horseback. The first permanent priest arrived in 1910 and the first Church was built in 1915. St. Paul was canonically erected as a Parish on July 25, 1958, in the Diocese of St. Augustine which then covered the entire state of Florida. The current church was dedicated by Bishop Dewane in March 2021 in a building that was converted from a supermarket. The church seats 1,100 for Mass, a includes a large Parish Hall, as well as 11 rooms for religious education, and multiple offices. Currently, St. Paul serves more than 4,000 individuals. St. Paul Parish has been designated by Bishop Dewane as a Diocesan Jubilee Year Pilgrimage Site.

Bishop Dewane initiated the installation process by calling Father Pacheco to the ambo following the homily. Father then recited an Oath of Fidelity in which he promises to “adhere to the teachings, which either the Roman Pontiff or the college of bishops enunciate when they exercise authentic magisterium.” Father Pacheco then recited, along with the faithful, the profession of faith, including additional parts solely for him. The installation also included prayers to provide the new Pastor the wisdom and guidance from the Holy Spirit to lead the Parish.

The Bishop then presented Father Pacheco as the new Pastor to the faithful gathered. Documents were signed by the Bishop, the new Pastor, and two official witnesses of the Parish Community, who serve as official witnesses on behalf of all of the parishioners. Copies of these documents are put in the Diocesan files for the Parish and Father, while a copy is kept at the Parish.

 

After Mass, Father Pacheco first thanked Bishop Dewane for the honor of appointing him and trusting him to lead St. Paul Parish. Father has been at St. Paul since 2021.

 

“I have no words to convey my thoughts, feelings and emotions, especially my appreciation to everyone for their support,” Father Pacheco said. “I pray to God and the Holy Spirit that I can live up to this responsibility. Know you are all in my heart.”

 

A reception followed in the Parish Hall.

 

 

New Pastor installed in Clewiston

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Bishop Frank J. Dewane installed Father Jean Woady Louis as Pastor of St. Margaret Parish and Santa Rosa de Lima Mission in Clewiston on Feb. 9, 2025, in the context of the Mass.

Bishop Dewane explained that the installation of a new Pastor is like a punctuation mark for the life of the Parish – a new era under the stewardship of Father Woady.

“We do this installation because a Pastor is called upon to lead people closer to God through the areas of evangelization, worship of God and the caring for the poor,” Bishop Dewane said. “Father has to be many things to many different people and I ask that you continue to support him and pray for your Pastor and your priests as they serve all of you.”

St. Margaret Mission in Clewiston had its beginning in the late 1920s when the first permanent priest was assigned to minister to the sacramental needs of families in the growing farming community on the south shores of Lake Okeechobee. Prior to that time, travelling priests had intermittently visited the area to celebrate Mass in various homes. A church was built and dedicated in 1931, and the mission was established as a Parish on Aug. 7, 1931, as part of the then-Diocese of St. Augustine. The Parish Hall was dedicated in 1967. Today, Mass is celebrated in both English and Spanish. St. Margaret and Santa Rose de Lima Mission are served by women religious from the Missionary Sisters of Our Lady of Light (MHML). The Parish is also home to offices of Catholic Charities, which offer a variety of services, including a weekly food pantry. There are approximately 400 families in the Parish.

Santa Rosa de Lima Mission was developed for the growing Catholic community in Montura Ranch Estates, just south of Clewiston. Initially, the community was administered by priests serving at St. Margaret and Our Lady Queen of Heaven Parish in LaBelle, with Mass first celebrated in a barn and then a community center before a permanent sanctuary was purchased in 2002. It was at that time Santa Rosa de Lima became a formal Mission of St. Margaret Parish. The Mission serves about 100 families and Mass is only celebrated in Spanish.

Bishop Dewane initiated the installation process by calling Father Woady to the ambo following the homily. Father then recited an Oath of Fidelity in which he promises to “adhere to the teachings, which either the Roman Pontiff or the college of bishops enunciate when they exercise authentic magisterium.” Father Woady then recited, along with the faithful, the profession of faith, including additional parts solely for him. The installation also included prayers to provide the new Pastor the wisdom and guidance from the Holy Spirit to lead the Parish.

The Bishop then presented Father Woady as the new Pastor to the faithful gathered. Documents were signed by the Bishop, the new Pastor, and two official witnesses of the Parish Community, who serve as official witnesses on behalf of all of the parishioners. Copies of these documents are put in the Diocesan files for the Parish and Father, while a copy is kept at the Parish.

After Mass, Father Woady first thanked Bishop Dewane for the honor of appointing him and trusting him to lead St. Margaret Parish and Santa Rosa de Lima Mission, as well as the faithful for being so supportive since his appointment in 2021.

“This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad,” Father Woady said. “I am blessed to be part of this beautiful community that has welcomed me into their hearts.”

A reception followed in the Parish Hall.

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