Tag: respect life

News Briefs for the Week of January 31, 2025

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Immigration Help

Catholic Charities has identified a central contact for immigration questions and information. Marco Sanchez’s services are those of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc. Sanchez’s contact information is marco.sanchez@catholiccharitiesdov.org or 941-208-2384 (direct office line), 941-599-0851 (cell phone). There is no charge for these services.

Ayuda de Inmigración 

Caridades Católicas ha identificado un contacto central para preguntas e información de inmigración. Los servicios de Marco Sánchez son los de Caridades Católicas, Diócesis de Venice, Inc. La información de contacto del Sr. Sánchez es marco.sanchez@catholiccharitiesdov.org o 941-208-2384 (línea directa de oficina), 941-599-0851 (teléfono celular).  No hay ningún cargo por estos servicios.

2025 Catholic Charismatic Renewal Conference Feb. 7 in Port Charlotte

Enjoy enlightening teaching, heartfelt worship and meaningful fellowship during the 2015 Catholic Charismatic Renewal Conference. The Conference is Feb. 7, 2025 (7 p.m. – 9 p.m.), and Feb. 8 (8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.), at St. Charles Borromeo Parish, 21505 Augusta Ave, Port Charlotte. The Friday night event is free, and the Saturday event registration fee is $45 and includes lunch. To register, visit www.charisms.org.

“Invite One Back” Training Feb. 8 in Arcadia

Learn how to invite others back to Mass in a non-confrontational way Saturday, February 8 from 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. at St. Paul Parish Hall, 1330 E. Oak St, Arcadia. This one-day workshop will teach participants person-to-person evangelization and is co-sponsored by the Diocese of Venice and St. Paul Street Evangelization (SPSE). All are welcome. The cost is $20 per person and includes all materials as well as breakfast and lunch. This training will be in English. Online registration is required at stpaulse.com/venice.

Annual Walk for the Poor in Cape Coral on Feb. 15

The St. Andrew Conference of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, a nonprofit organization that helps local neighbors in need, will sponsor its 4th Annual Walk for the Poor, at 10:30 a.m., Feb. 15, at St. Andrew Parish, 2628 Del Prado Blvd. S., Cape Coral. The St. Andrew Conference is celebrating its 55 years of service to Cape Coral neighbors. Since 1970, the St. Andrew Conference has been providing tangible assistance in the form of rental assistance, food vouchers, water and electric utility assistance, prescription, temporary lodging, thrift store vouchers, bus passes, job resources, and referrals to other agencies and organizations. All proceeds and donations from the Walk for the Poor will directly benefit the people in the Cape Coral area served by SVdP. To register for the walk or to make a donation, please visit https://go.rallyup.com/capesvdp/Campaign/Details.

Catholic Days at the Capitol deadline Feb. 18

Join others from around the state for the annual Catholic Days at the Capitol in Tallahassee from March 18-20. The three-day trip includes a legislative briefing on important bills relating to human life and dignity, a breakfast with legislators and the Florida Bishops, tours of the capitol and museum, scheduled visits with legislators and the annual Red Mass of the Holy Spirit with the Florida Bishops and public officials. Bus transportation is provided at no cost as long as space is available. The registration deadline is February 18; for registration, please visit www.dioceseofvenice.org/respectlife, or contact Jeanne Berdeaux at 941-374-1068 or Berdeaux@dioceseofvenice.org.

Theology on Tap in Sarasota Feb. 8

Theology on Tap, a monthly program for young adults in their 20s and 30s, providing an opportunity to explore faith topics in a relaxed and social setting in the Sarasota area, will next gather at 7 p.m., Feb. 20, 2025, at Oak & Stone, 5405 University Parkway, Sarasota. The speaker for February is Father Daniel Scanlan, Parochial Vicar at St. Thomas More Parish in Sarasota. His talk is titled: “Pilgrims of Hope: Reflection on the Jubilee Year 2025.” The evening begins with food and refreshments with presentations, and discussions about the Catholic Faith beginning about 8 p.m. The is no cost to attend. Please email Andres Prias at prias@dioceseofvenice.org with any questions

Community Pregnancy Clinics Dinner Feb. 22

Community Pregnancy Clinics in Sarasota is hosting its “Loving them Both” dinner event at 5 p.m., Feb. 22, 2025, at the Grove Event venue, 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch, to support its Sarasota pro-life pregnancy clinic. The featured speaker is Dr. John Bruchalski. There is no cost to attend; an opportunity to make a financial contribution to support CPCI’s Sarasota clinic and its life-saving mission will be extended. To reserve your spot, please visit https://supportcpci.com/sarasota-2025-dinner-event/.

Pre-Lenten Retreat at OLPH in February

February’s Monthly Day of Prayer at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice, will be presented by Father Leland Thorpe, OMV. Father Thorpe will reflect on how we can prepare now to have our best Lent yet when it begins in a talk titled: “Better than Chocolate: Preparing to Have Your Best Lent Yet.” Treat yourself to a day of peace and spiritual growth on either Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025, or Wednesday, Feb. 12. The day begins at 9:30 a.m. with continental breakfast, and includes two conferences, lunch, Eucharistic Adoration, the opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, private meditation, and prayer. The day concludes with 2:30 p.m. Mass. To register, please visit olph-retreat.org/month.

Kentucky Derby Gala & Auction

Help build a brighter future for St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School by attending the Kentucky Derby Gala, at 6 p.m., Feb. 22, 2025, at Heritage Bay Golf & CC, 10154 Heritage Bay Blvd, Naples. The cost is $175 per person and all proceeds benefit ongoing campus and classroom expansions and improvements. For more information contact Gina Groch at 239-455-2262 x321 or to register visit Gala & Auction Registration – St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School.

Conference for health care professionals March 1 in Fort Myers

The annual Converging Road Conference for health care professionals and students will take place March 1, 2025, at St. John XXIII Parish, 13060 Palamino Drive, Fort Myers. The theme for the Conference is “Catholic Social Doctrine in Medicine. Check-in opens at 7:30 a.m., with Mass at 8 a.m. Opening remarks are at 9:15 a.m. Converging Roads is a program of the St. John Paul II Foundation. Registration is available at March 1, 2025 | Fort Myers, FL | Converging Roads – St. John Paul II Foundation. Participation in the conference online is an option (check registration information for details). For More Information, please contact Gabby Anglin, Conference Coordinator, at 309-397-5436 or at gabby@forlifeandfamily.org. Medical professionals are eligible to earn continuing education credits for participating in the conference.

Vocation Awareness Weekend in March

Discover what the seminarian life is all about during the weekend of March 7-9, 2025, at St. John Vianney College Seminary, 2900 SW 87th Ave, Miami. Participants will travel together for a weekend of fellowship, prayer and fun. Speak with seminarian students and teachers about their journey. Transportation is provided. For questions or to register contact Lina Johnson at johnson@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-486-4720.

Event to support homeless outreach in Naples on March 8

St. William Parish in Naples is hosting the inaugural “A Night of Building HOPE,” an inspiring event dedicated to fostering community support and raising awareness for the homeless in the Naples area. The event will take place on March 8, 2025, in the Parish Center at 750 Seagate Drive, Naples. The St. William HOPE (Homeless Outreach Program for Empowerment) program is committed to making a positive difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness in Naples. HOPE’s mission is driven by a deep belief in the inherent dignity and worth of every individual and aims to empower lives and create a community where everyone feels valued and supported. HOPE has been operating for the past four years, providing hot meals, clothing, transportation and social services to those most in need, in partnership with St. Peter the Apostle Parish and Catholic Charities of Collier County. Tickets and sponsorships are available by visiting: https://BUILDHOPE.givesmart.com. For more information about “A Night of Building HOPE” please contact Sharon Tolnai at sharon@saintwilliam.org or 239-330-2267.

Malta Camp USA registration open

Malta Camp USA, inspired by the Order of Malta’s charism, is a unique 5-day experience for adults with disabilities. The camp is free, and will be offered this summer from June 22-27, 2025, at Siena College in Loudonville, New York (outside of Saratoga). Primarily designed for those 21-40 years of age, Malta Camp participants have an opportunity to feel independent, enjoy new experiences, and make new friends. The camp opens doors for many disabled adults who might otherwise live very “shut-in” lives. To learn more, or to apply, visit www.maltacampusa.org  Application deadline is March 14.

Jubilee Pilgrimage of Hope to Poland

Join Father Greg Cleveland. OMV, for an inspiring pilgrimage of lifetime to Poland from Sept. 14 – 25, 2025. The pilgrimage is part of the 2025 Jubilee Year, and it themed: “In the footsteps of St. John Paul II. The 12-day trip includes stops in Krakow, Czestochowa, Wadowice, Prague, Budapest, and Vienna. St. John Paul the Great is known as the Witness to Hope. Come and see the places that inspired him, Our Lady of Czestochowa and the Divine Mercy Shrine of St. Faustina, along with some of the most beautiful cities of Central Europe! Departs from Tampa. For more information, please contact Father Cleveland at 303-927-8065. To register, please visit https://bit.ly/ClevelandCentralEurope.

Pro-Life message needs to resonate for all

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Made in the image and likeness of God, every life matters.

From conception to natural death, the fight to defend the life of the most vulnerable continues. Although there have been victories in recent years in curbing access to abortion in Florida and nationwide, much work still needs to be done.

For this reason, more than 1,300 took part in the Fourth Annual Ave Maria March for Life on Jan. 18, 2025, including Bishop Frank J. Dewane. The March was a joint effort of the Parish Respect Life Ministry, Ave Maria University, and the Knights of Columbus, and included inspirational speakers.

In addition, on Jan. 24, a group of nearly 200 from the Diocese of Venice, mostly high schoolers, travelled to the National March for Life in Washington, D.C. joining tens of thousands of others on the national stage.

Each of these events occurred in connection to the Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of the Unborn, Jan. 22, a day designated by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops for the faithful to pause and reflect on the damage caused by more than 65 million abortions since the 1972 Roe v. Wade U.S. Supreme Court decision cleared the way for unlimited abortion in the country. While that decision was overturned in 2022, the fight didn’t end there. The states are now responsible for setting laws on abortion access and the result is chaotic, meaning some states allow abortion nearly to the moment of birth, while states like Florida have banned all abortions beyond six weeks of gestation.

The fight is clear, because as Bishop Dewane noted, when Pope Francis was recently asked to respond to the “issue” of abortion, the Holy Father stated: “Abortion is not an issue. It’s murder.”

“Too often the political realm drags us into a fight over this ‘issue,’ but that is wrong,” the Bishop said. “We are not in a political fight over an issue in this country, we are in a moral struggle in our country because no longer do many see the value of life. We must remember, each individual life is made in the image and likeness of God. That is what we are fighting to uphold.”

Speaking directly to the youth at the Ave March, Bishop Dewane said it is they who will carry the fight into the future.

“It is murder that you have to reach out and stop,” the Bishop said. “You are our hope. You are our prayer. The Lord has given you a mission in life. He says in the Gospel, ‘Follow me!’ If we don’t follow Him about the sanctity of life, we not only fail Christ, but we also fail ourselves, we fail our neighbors, we fail our families, and we fail our Creator. Stand up and speak out. Let this question make you become more the man or woman of God you are called to be.”

Several of the high school participants spoke after the March about being excited to be part of the Pro-Life movement, knowing how important it is for their generation to speak up for the unborn.

One young lady from St. John the Evangelist Parish in Naples not how impressed she was that “the Bishop said our generation is on a mission. That mission is to be a witness for life before our friends and family, but most importantly for the Glory of God.”

Speakers during the Ave March included Sharon Levesque, Ave Maria Parish Respect Life Ministry leaders and coordinator of the March; Jim Havens, radio and podcast host and president and founder of The Men’s March; Steven W. Mosher, president of the Population Research Institute; Kimberly King, vice president of student affairs at Ave Maria University; Campbell Rose Yates, middle school vice president of the Pro-Life Club at Donahue Academy of Ave Maria; Audrey Fairchild, high school vice president of the Pro-Life Club at Donahue Academy; and Kate Richardson, of the Ave Maria University Pro-Life Club.

All of the speakers spoke about the defeat of the extreme Amendment 4 in the November 2024 Florida election which would have radically expanded access to abortion in the state. The vote was too close, and Bishop Dewane said that the work to educate people on the horrors of abortion starts with events such as this Ave Maria March.

Included in the Ave Maria March was a group of 175 from St. Michael Parish in Wauchula guided by the Servant Sisters of the Lord and the Virgin of Matara.

In addition to other faithful from throughout the Diocese, there were groups from as far away as the Archdiocese of Miami, Diocese of St. Petersburg and Diocese of Orlando.

The effort to protect life does not end with the Marches. Starting March 5, Ash Wednesday, and continuing through Lent, there will be three 40 Days for Life spring campaign locations within the Diocese (Fort Myers, Naples, and Sarasota). During the campaign, the faithful will stand in peaceful prayer to end abortion. For more details, please visit https://www.40daysforlife.com/en/.

If you would like to learn more about Respect Life issues and how you can be a witness for life, please visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/respectlife.

Lifetime Achievement Recognized: 40 years of service to Diocese and Life issues

Posted on by Bob Reddy

After 40 years of service to the Diocese of Venice, Respect Life Director Jeanne Berdeaux has been recognized for her lifelong dedication to protecting the unborn by receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Knights of Columbus Council 3358 in Sarasota.

The official recognition occurred during a Dinner for Life event on Nov. 17, 2024, just after the Diocese regretfully announced Berdeaux’s retirement on Nov. 6, 2024.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane said the contribution of Jeanne Berdeaux to the Diocese of Venice is vast, but it was her work of fighting for life, from conception to natural death, that made a profound impact.

“The legacy of Jeane Berdeaux is truly incalculable,” Bishp Dewane said. “She showed us all the ways to stand up for life, with love and passion that knew no bounds. She may be retired but her legacy is found in the countless babies who have been saved either directly or indirectly by the initiatives she has championed throughout her life in service to the Diocese and God. The Diocese is grateful for her service.”

Berdeaux was a volunteer leading the youth group at Epiphany Parish in Venice when the Diocese of Venice in Florida was founded in 1984. She assisted and was present for many of the events surrounding the creation of the new Diocese and attended the installation of its first Bishop, the Most Rev. John J. Nevins. Jeanne recalled those early years of the Diocese with enthusiasm.

“It was exciting!” she said. “The Diocese was growing rapidly with new churches being built and ministries expanding. I helped at the Installation Mass of Bishop Nevins and then assisted with refreshments for the 1,700 guests at the reception that day!” Jeanne recalled.

It was on April 8, 1985, when Berdeaux was hired by the Diocese as an Administrative Assistant for the Diocesan Office of Pastoral Ministries (now Evangelization). The broad department included focusing on issues such as Family Life, Youth, Scouting, Prison Ministry, Persons with Disabilities and Older Catholics, and Respect Life.

Berdeaux quickly embraced her work with the Pro-Life movement and accepted a position as Administrative Assistant in 1993 and was eventually appointed Respect Life Director in 1998.

During the Knights of Columbus awards ceremony, Arthur Reilly spoke highly of Berdeaux and her work in the Pro-Life movement, noting that “Jeanne is an inspiration to all of us, a humble servant and a blessing to our Church, our community and our state.”  Reilly noted further how Berdeaux’s impact reaches far beyond that of her personal influence, adding “Think of how many of us have been drawn to the Pro-Life movement through the events and activities spearheaded by Jeanne.”

Some of those events and activities include:

  • State Respect Life Conference – hosted it in 1991, 1998, 2006, 2011 and 2018;
  • 40 Days for Life – the second Diocese in the country to be part of the national prayer campaigns in multiple locations at the encouragement of Bishop Dewane;
  • Catholic Days at the Capitol – leading groups annually to push a Pro-Life agenda to State Legislators in Tallahassee;
  • March for Life – organizing and encouraging many groups to participate in the annual national March in Washington, D.C., often accompanied by Bishop Dewane;
  • Pennies for Babies – initiated a program to help pregnant moms in need through Catholic Charities;
  • Knights of Columbus ultrasound program – facilitating the purchase of several dozen machines for pregnancy resource centers in the region;
  • “Walking with Moms in Need” – implementing the U.S. Bishop’s initiative within the Diocese to ensure that any woman who finds herself unexpectedly pregnant, or parenting in difficult circumstances, can turn to her local Catholic Church and be connected with the resources she needs;
  • Project Rachel and Hope After Abortion – post-abortion support programs for moms and dads who are struggling with the impacts of abortion in their lives.

During her time as Respect Life Director, Berdeaux said the biggest win was when the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the devastating Roe v. Wade decision in 2022 with the Dobbs decision, throwing the issue of legislating abortion to the states.

“I never thought I would see the day when Roe v Wade would be overturned,” Berdeaux said. “It wasn’t long, however, before we realized that our work was not done. The ‘other side’ was infuriated and worked even harder to push their agenda, but it opened the door to the strongest pro-life legislation we have ever had in Florida.”

This set up the epic fight to defeat Amendment 4 on the November 2024 Florida ballot. Had it passed, the extreme and dangerous proposed amendment to the Florida Constitution would have radically expanded access to abortion reversing years of positive legislation that now limits abortion to six-weeks of gestation.

“However, over the 40 years in Respect Life, nothing compares to the defeat of Amendment 4,” Berdeaux said. “I am convinced that many of the 57% of voters who said yes to it had no idea how devastating its passage would have been in our state.  Fortunately, most pro-life people did everything possible to spread the truth. We know the fight is not over, but we bought some time to keep teaching that love is the answer.”

Another big “win” acknowledged by Berdeaux is the success of 40 Days for Life.

“When I first heard about 40 Days for Life in 2007 before its launch, I didn’t think I had time to bring it to our Diocese,” Berdeaux recalled. “But with the support of Bishop Dewane, we made it happen, and we were only the second Diocese in the country to bring that campaign to life!  It has grown into the most amazingly effective pro-life campaign, involving hundreds of people in our Diocese, from priests to volunteers, all in peaceful, prayerful witness on the sidewalks in front of abortion centers,” she said. “These people have become the sign women pray to find as they approach these facilities.”

When asked what the biggest challenge is facing the Respect life movement today, Berdeaux said it was simply really understanding the issues.

“Getting people to listen and learn about the issues was difficult then and still is today,” Berdeaux said. “There are more ways to communicate now, but people are busier then ever and there are more distractions. If people stopped long enough to understand the issues, I truly believe there would be much greater respect for all human life.”

As for the immediate future, Berdeaux is busy at home caring for her husband who is recovering from a recent illness, but told Bishop Dewane she would help as much as she can until a new Respect Life Director can be appointed and trained.

“I am looking forward to helping my husband regain his strength and enjoy life more,” Berdeaux said, “but I will still be handling things that have to be done in the Respect Life Office. Staying involved is helping me with this transition. Hopefully my help will keep things rolling for a while longer so the right person can be found to take over Respect Life and take it to new levels. I can’t wait to see what God has in store for us!”

Pro-Life fight continues, 52 years post-Roe

Posted on by Bob Reddy

In the 52 years since the U.S. Supreme Court paved the way for legalized abortion in the United States in the infamous Roe v. Wade decision, more than 65 million innocent lives have been lost. However, since Roe was overturned by the Supreme Court by the Dobbs decision in 2022, great progress has been made to protect women and their preborn children in Florida.

“While significant gains to protect women and preborn children in recent years have been put in place, abortion in Florida will continue at a very high rate under our current laws,” Bishop Frank J. Dewane said. “The attempt to pass the extreme, pro-abortion, Amendment 4 on the November ballot reminds us all that much work remains to open hearts and minds to the dignity and goodness of life in the womb and at every stage.”

Bishop Dewane, along with all Florida Bishops, has vowed to continue to proclaim in Parishes and in the public square the value of every human life and to highlight that there is a better way forward for women, families and society than abortion.

Keeping the unborn at the forefront of the public discussion remains critical, as Jan. 22, 2025, the Roe v. Wade anniversary, is now known as the Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children.

In a January 7, 2025, statement from the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops regarding the Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children, the Bishops “praise God for the great opportunity state and federal legislators now have to protect pre-born children. While God, in His mercy, ended the nearly 50-year nationwide regime of abortion on demand (via the 2022 Dobbs decision), right now state and federal laws, in many instances, are still hostile to pre-born children. So, great prayer and advocacy is very needed.”

In Florida, a 15-week abortion limit was put into effect in 2022 and the State Legislature further limited abortion to six-weeks of gestation, which went into effect in 2024 and was challenged by the extreme Amendment 4.

Activities within the Diocese of Venice continue to advance the pro-life mission. For example, on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025, is the 4th Annual March for Life hosted by Ave Maria Parish in Ave Maria. The event begins at 10 a.m. at the Ave Maria University Football Stadium with guest speakers, including Bishop Frank J. Dewane. The walk will leave the stadium and continue through the Ave Maria University campus before concluding with closing prayers in front of the Ave Maria Parish Church in the town square.

Then, a group of about 150 teens from Diocese of Venice Catholic high schools, as well as students from Ave Maria University and the Ave Maria School of Law, will be attending the National March for Life on Jan. 24, in Washington, D.C., joining thousands in standing up as a voice for the unborn. This annual event marks the anniversary of Roe. (For more information, please visit https://marchforlife.org/.)

Coming during in Lent, March 5 to April 13, will be the 40 Days for Life Spring campaign in Sarasota, Fort Myers and Naples. This is part of a national effort to take part in a peaceful vigil in front of abortion facilities to pray for the unborn and encourage moms to save their babies. (For details, please visit https://www.40daysforlife.com/en/.)

Through different outreach efforts, the Diocese of Venice will continue to support, accompany and assist pregnant women and young families. The Diocese of Venice is a proud partner in the “Walking with Moms in Need” initiative of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. This program educates the Parish staff and ultimately the faithful on where to send a pregnant woman for assistance. This program is crucial, as, for years, the Diocese has partnered with pregnancy help centers throughout the 10-county region. This is to ensure that pregnant moms have access to the support and resources needed and are encouraged to choose life, that they are accompanied by members of their faith community; it is important that mothers know they are not alone.

For women or men who have been scarred by abortion, the Diocese offers “Project Rachel,” an outreach of the Catholic Church to those who are suffering and in need of healing following an abortion. This program offers help through the sacraments, retreats, and referrals for professional counseling, all confidentially. For assistance, please contact, Sylvia Jimenez, Project Rachel Coordinator, at 941-412-5860 (English and en Español), or project.rachel@dioceseofvenice.org. The Diocese also works with “Support After Abortion,” a national outreach to provide individualized care for individuals impacted by abortion. For details, visit https://supportafterabortion.com/.

News Briefs for the Week of January 17, 2025

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Appointment

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

Father Victor Caviedes is relieved of his duties as Parochial Vicar of St. Jude Parish, Sarasota, effective Dec. 17, 2024.

Faith & Wine Lee County Jan. 23

The Faith & Wine Lee County will have its next gathering of the season at 6:30 p.m., Jan. 23, 2025, at St. John XXIII Parish, Parish Life Center, 13060 Palomino Lane, Fort Myers. The speaker is Stephanie Burke, and the title of the talk is “The Perfume of Our Tears: God Heals Broken Hearts.” Tickets are $28 and includes dinner with wine followed by the presentation and the opportunity to connect with other faith-based women. For more information and to register online please visit faithandwineleecounty.com.

Jubilee Adoration Nights

As part of the 2025 Jubilee Year, the Diocese of Venice Office of Youth and Young Adults is hosting Jubilee Adoration Nights at several Parishes in the coming months. These Jubilee Adoration Nights, which include guest speakers and time to spend in the presence of the Lord in the Most Holy Sacrament, are the first in a series of opportunities within the Diocese of Venice to participate in the larger 2025 Jubilee Year as established by Pope Francis. The motto for the special year is “Pilgrims of Hope.” Each Jubilee Adoration Night is 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on the following dates and locations: Friday, January 31, St. Andrew Parish, 2628 Del Prado Blvd., Cape Coral; Saturday, March 22, St. Patrick Parish, 7900 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota; and Friday, May 2, St. Paul Parish, 1330 E. Oak. St., Arcadia. These special Jubilee Year Adoration Nights are geared toward youth, with youth-centric music and, in some cases talks, but all are welcome.

Catholic Charities Annual Christmas Appeal needs your support!

The Annual Catholic Charities Christmas Appeal is still underway and needs your support! The Christmas Appeal continues through January 2025 and is Catholic Charities’ largest annual fundraiser, which is critical to meeting the operating needs of this social service organization. Gifts provide funding for the many Catholic Charities programs and services available throughout Southwest Florida. Your generosity enables Catholic Charities to serve those seeking help all year long. To donate please mail a contribution to Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34285, or visit https://catholiccharitiesdov.org/donate.

Young Adult Evening with Padre Pio in Sarasota

Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Parish, 833 Magellan Drive, Sarasota, is hosting a Catholic Young Adult Evening with St. Padre Pio, on Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. The evening begins with the opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation at 3 p.m., followed by 4 p.m. Mass with prayer intentions for the saint. Following Mass, there will be the praying of the St. Padre Pio Rosary, prayer devotions and a blessing with a first-class relic. Participants will also be encouraged to attend a dinner at Olive Garden. For details and to reserve your seat for dinner, please contact Erica Lesak at elesak@sjcfl.org.

Sunshine State Championship Steak Cook-Off Jan. 25 in Ave Maria

The 15th Annual Sunshine State Championship Steak Cook-Off is 2 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Jan. 25, 2025, in the Ave Maria Town Center. Tickets are $30 in advance ($35 the day of the event), and include a 16 oz. boneless ribeye, potato salad and water. Dinner is served at 5 p.m. The day will also include an arts and crafts festival, beer vendors, live music and a bounce house. Tickets are available now at www/sssco.org. All proceeds benefit local charities supported by the Knights of Columbus.

Witnessing Faith radio show Jan. 31

Join Bishop Frank J. Dewane for his monthly 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 Jan. 31, 2025, and will include a talk about Catholic Schools Week. Outside of the listening area, access to the program is available at https://dioceseofvenice.org/our-bishop/relevant-radio-podcasts/.

Sidewalk Advocacy Training in Naples Feb. 1

Learn how to help abortion-minded women choose life through loving counsel on Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. at St. John the Evangelist Parish, 625 111 Ave. N., Naples. Lunch and workbook will be provided. For more information or to register, contact Cyrille Velasco the local leader of Sidewalk Advocates for Life at cyrillevelasco@gmail.com.

2025 Catholic Charities Ball Feb. 1 in Sarasota

The 2025 Catholic Charities Ball will be held at the St. Regis Longboat Key Resort, 1601 Gulf of Mexico Drive, at 6 p.m., Feb. 1, 2025, to benefit the programs and services in Sarasota County. Please join Catholic Charities for an elegant evening to celebrate the program’s mission to serve all of those in need who come for help, regardless of race or religion. “Creating Miracles Through Faith and Service.” Tickets are $500. Register at https://one.bidpal.net/ccb2025/welcome. For more information, call 941-376-7854 or email CCBall@ccdov.org.

Milestone Anniversary Masses Feb. 1 and March 8

All couples celebrating 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, or more than 50 years of marriage are invited by Bishop Frank J. Dewane to an Anniversary Mass in their honor. The Diocese hosts two Anniversary Masses each year (one in the northern part of the Diocese and the second in the southern part) to accommodate the demand. The first Mass is at 11 a.m., Feb. 1, 2025, at St. Leo the Great Parish, 28290 Beaumont Road, Bonita Springs. The second Mass is at 11 a.m., March 8, 2025, at St. Thomas More Parish, 2506 Gulf Gate Drive, Sarasota.  A luncheon follows each Mass. Free pictures with Bishop Dewane will also be available for the couples. To register for either Mass, please contact your local Parish office for reservations no later than one week before the event you choose to attend. For additional information, please contact Jim Gontis at 941-484-4754 or gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

“Invite One Back” Training Feb. 8 in Arcadia

Learn how to invite others back to Mass in a non-confrontational way Saturday, February 8 from 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. at St. Paul Parish Hall, 1330 E. Oak St, Arcadia. This one-day workshop will teach participants person-to-person evangelization and is co-sponsored by the Diocese of Venice and St. Paul Street Evangelization (SPSE). The cost is $20 per person and includes all materials as well as breakfast and lunch. This training will be in English. Online registration is required at stpaulse.com/venice.

Pre-Lenten Retreat at OLPH

February’s Monthly Day of Prayer at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice, will be presented by Father Leland Thorpe, OMV. Father Thorpe will reflect on how we can prepare now to have our best Lent yet when it begins in a talk titled: “Better than Chocolate: Preparing to Have Your Best Lent Yet.” Treat yourself to a day of peace and spiritual growth on either Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025, and Wednesday, Feb. 12. The day begins at 9:30 a.m. with continental breakfast, and includes two conferences, lunch, Eucharistic Adoration, the opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, private meditation, and prayer. The day concludes with 2:30 p.m. Mass. To register, please visit olph-retreat.org/month.

Eucharistic Pilgrimage in Eastern Deanery Feb. 15

Five Parishes in the Eastern Deanery will be hosting a Eucharistic Pilgrimage, which will visit the parishes of St. James, St. Catherine, Our Lady of Grace, St. Michael, and St. Paul, on Saturday, Feb.15, 2025. This is a unique opportunity to respond to the call of the Eucharistic Revival Mission and celebrate the 2025 Jubilee Year declared by Pope Francis. The pilgrimage begins at 7:30 a.m., at St. James Parish, 3380 Placid View Drive, Lake Placid, and will include Mass, a Eucharistic Procession and breakfast. Pilgrims will then travel by their own vehicle to St. Catherine Parish, 820 Hickory St., Sebring, for a 10 a.m. Eucharistic Procession. Next will be at Our Lady of Grace Parish, 595 E. Main St., Avon Park, for a noon Eucharistic Procession, followed by lunch. Pilgrims will them proceed to St. Michael Parish, 408 Heard Bridge Road, for a 3 p.m. Eucharistic Procession, followed by snacks. The final stop will be at St. Paul Parish, 1330 E. Oak St., Arcadia (this is a designated Diocesan Jubilee Year Pilgrimage Site), for 6 p.m. Mass, which will be followed by food. Pilgrims can participate in as many of the stops as they wish. For more information, please contact Sister Maria Nikopoia, SSVM, at m.nikopoia@servidoras.org or call 863-232-9284.

Vocation Awareness Weekend in March

Discover what the seminarian life is all about during the weekend of March 7-9, 2025, at St. John Vianney College Seminary, 2900 SW 87th Ave, Miami. Participants will travel together for a weekend of fellowship, prayer and fun. Speak with seminarian students and teachers about their journey. Transportation is provided. For questions or to register contact Lina Johnson at johnson@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-486-4720.

WARNING – Text/Email Scam Alert! Be Aware! Don’t be fooled!

It has once again been brought to the attention of the Diocese of Venice that parishioners have received text/email messages from people pretending to be clergy – including Bishop Frank J. Dewane – or Parish/school staff, requesting donations in the form of gift cards and/or wire transfers. These messages often come from text/emails that look similar to official Diocesan/Parish/school numbers or accounts. Please note that it is Diocesan policy that neither the Bishop, nor priests or staff will ever request donations in the form of gift cards, PayPal, MoneyGram, etc.  There is an established process in place on how parishioners can make donations and participate in the life of the Diocese, Parish, or school. If you receive such a text or email, please immediately contact the Diocesan/Parish/school directly!

 

 

Defeat of Amendment 4 is good news – But does not stop fight to protect LIFE

Posted on by Bob Reddy

News of the defeat of Amendment 4, an extreme and dangerous proposed amendment to the Florida Constitution that would have radically expanded access to abortion, spread rapidly on Election Night, with the Florida Bishops expressing their relief, while news that a majority of voters supported the amendment remains a concern.

“This is a great victory not only for the protection of full-term babies, but also for the protection of mothers and girls who were placed in danger by the proposed amendment,” Bishop Dewane said. “My thanks and gratitude go out to the many across the Diocese of Venice who stood up to support life and helped to defeat Amendment 4. To all who prayed, put up yard signs, handed out information, spoke to their neighbors, stood on the sidewalks in the public square saying, “NO on 4!” I humbly say: ‘THANK YOU!’”

Amendment 4 required 60% of the vote in Florida for passage, and the Diocese of Venice was blessed that none of the 10 counties which make up the Diocese of Venice reached that threshold. If fact, six of the 10 counties did not ever reach 50% in favor of Amendment 4, a good sign for standing for life moving forward.

The focus of the Catholic Church on abortion is, and has always been, to help women in unexpected or difficult pregnancies to appreciate the gift of life, helping them to make the right choice for life. 

“We must continue in these efforts,” Bishop Dewane said. “Of course, legal protection of the unborn must be accompanied by more care for mothers and their children. The Catholic Church, and the Diocese of Venice, stand ready to help mothers in need. Pregnant women must know that they are not alone.”

Parishes in the Diocese of Venice have redoubled their efforts to accompany women and couples who are facing unexpected or difficult pregnancies, offering them loving and compassionate care, through the “Walking with Moms in Need” program. This program educates the faithful where to send a pregnant woman in need (https://dioceseofvenice.org/walking-with-moms-in-need) with all resources available in both English and Spanish. There are 22 Pregnancy Help Centers and nine residential maternity and after-birth homes within the Diocese, standing ready to help. Importantly, with an expected increase for demand, there are many financial and volunteering opportunities available to support these Pregnancy Help Centers.

While Bishop Dewane, along with the Florida Bishops said that the defeat of Amendment 4 is a time for celebration, there still needs to be a focus on making abortion unthinkable in Florida.

“Though Amendment 4 failed to reach the 60% threshold required to pass, a majority of Floridians voting in the general election supported it,” the Florida Bishops said. “While significant gains to protect women and preborn children in recent years will remain in place, abortion in Florida will continue at a very high rate under our current laws.”

“Much work remains to open hearts and minds to the dignity and goodness of life in the womb and at every stage,” the Florida Bishops statement continued. “We will continue to proclaim in our churches and in the public square the value of every human life and to highlight that there is a better way forward for women, families and society than abortion. Through our many ministries, we will continue to support, encourage and assist pregnant women and young families. For those who regret their abortion or abortions, or their cooperation in one, we reiterate that the Lord is eager to forgive, and the Church is ready to facilitate healing.”

For decades, the Diocese of Venice has supported Pregnancy Help Centers and will continue to do so. Our Mother’s House of Catholic Charities in Venice is one of the programs in the Diocese that supports single mothers and their children, providing not just housing and material needs, but valuable counseling and education.

There is also a support after abortion outreach in the Diocese called Project Rachel. This program is a confidential service where any woman or man who is hurting from an abortion can seek help and find hope and healing. Again, this service is available in both English and Spanish.

“Many people still don’t understand Catholic teaching on abortion and the sanctity of human life,” said Jeanne Berdeaux, Diocese of Venice Respect Life Director. “There are many resources available to help them learn the truth beginning with the Catechism of the Catholic Church and on our Diocesan website. We must all be reminded that in God’s eyes, all human life is sacred, from conception to natural death; this is the teaching of the Catholic Church.”

Bishop Dewane concluded that as we move forward from the defeat of Amendment 4, “Let us all continue to pray for the end to abortion, and the end to taking the lives of an entire category of human beings, the preborn.”

News Briefs for the week of November 8, 2024

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Announcements

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

Father Sebastian Szczawinski, Pastor of Our Lady of the Angels Parish, is welcomed to the Presbyterate of the Diocese of Venice and is incardinated into said Diocese, effective Nov. 1, 2024.

Father Timothy Deutsch, as Parochial Vicar of St. John the Evangelist in Naples, effective Oct. 21, 2024.

Father Rodolfo French Naar, as Parochial Vicar of St. Raphael Parish in Lehigh Acres, effective Oct. 23, 2024.

Catholic Mass on Veterans Day

On Veterans Day, Monday, Nov. 11, 2024, the Diocese of Venice will hold a Catholic Mass in honor of the men and women who have served our country and continue to serve and protect us today. This is the 15th year the Diocese has held a Mass on Veterans Day. The opening ceremonies begin at 2:45 p.m., with the Mass at 3:00 p.m. in the Amphitheater at the Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Road 72/Clark Road, approximately five miles east of I-75. The priests, deacons and Knights of Columbus in the Diocese will join in the celebration of the Mass. All are invited to attend, and active military personnel are asked to wear their uniform. Attendees are also encouraged to wear sunscreen and bring a hat. There is ample seating and parking at the cemetery. For further information please contact Gail Ardy at ardy@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-486-4714.

Two Diocesan seminarians admitted to Candidacy

Seminarians Alexander J. Baugh and Terry P. Gastauer, in formation for the Diocese of Venice, were among nine to be admitted to Candidacy for Holy Orders during a Mass on Oct. 30, 2024, at Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary in Weston, Massachusetts. Each seminarian has been approved by his Bishop and will continue studies and formation to become a Catholic priest. In addition, they have demonstrated their intention and dedication to complete their preparation for Holy Orders. The Mass for Admission to Candidacy for Holy Orders was presided over by Most Reverend David Leon Toups, Bishop of the Diocese of Beaumont, Texas.

Bishop celebrates Mass for three schools

On Oct. 31, 2024, Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated Mass at the Donahue Catholic Academy of Ave Maria Parish in Ave Maria on Oct. 31, 2024. In addition, Bishop Dewane celebrated Mass at St. Catherine Catholic School in Sebring on Nov. 4, and Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School on Nov. 5. These are the latest in a series of Masses celebrated at Diocesan Catholic schools at the beginning of the academic year. Additional Masses are scheduled through December.

Special collection for hurricane relief Nov. 16-17

A special Hurricane Relief Collection will take place during all Masses in the Diocese of Venice on the weekend of Nov. 16-17, 2024. Bishop Frank J. Dewane called for this collection to aid in the recovery following the impacts of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Coastal areas were flooded and many other areas had significant wind damage. Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., has been working to provide assistance at designated sites, distributing water, food, tarps, cleaning supplies, and other basic necessities. The collection will help provide for the continuing needs, as well as the effort of Catholic Charities in providing both immediate and long-term assistance to those impacted.

Knights golf tournament benefits Catholic Charities’ Our Mother’s House

Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., and Our Mother’s House were among the beneficiaries of the Knights of Columbus Our Lady of Lourdes Council 9924 Circle of Life Charity Golf Event in October 2024. A check presentation ceremony took place at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Venice on Nov. 5.

All Saints Day celebrated at Parishes and schools

Young children dressed as their favorite saints were a common sight during All Saints Day celebrations at Diocese of Venice Catholic Schools and Parishes. Several schools hosted pageants with students often sharing information about their chosen saint.

Civics lessons learned on Election Day

While the nation voted on Nov. 4, 2024, Diocese of Venice Catholic School students went to the polls to participate in their own “election.” Students learned about voting rights, the importance of participating in elections and even cast ballots for their favorite ice cream or superhero. This civics lesson helps keep students informed about this important process.

School diaper drive supports Community Pregnancy Clinics

During the month of October, Respect Life Month, the students at the Donahue Catholic Academy of Ave Maria Parish in Ave Maria collected diapers and wipes for Community Pregnancy Clinics in Naples. The diapers were picked up by Clinics CEO Scott Baier on Oct. 31, 2024. Bishop Frank J. Dewane was present to bless the donations which will go to support women and their newborn children throughout Southwest Florida.

Remember to Vote No on 4! – Still time to Defeat Amendment 4!

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024, and this year it is particularly important that everyone votes.

The election has many keys races but most importantly is the dire need to defeat Amendment 4, an extreme and dangerous proposed amendment to the Florida Constitution that would radically expand access to abortion.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane, along with the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops, have been tireless in their efforts to get the word out about just how dangerous Amendment 4 is. The Amendment is misleading, and if passed, would be an immediate danger not only to full-term babies but also to mothers and girls.

A new commercial has been released which reminds us that Amendment 4 removes ALL restrictions on abortions, allowing for abortions at any time, for any reason, including extremely late-term abortions, when the baby can feel pain. This is radical, extreme, and unnecessary! Follow this link to view the Vote No on 4 video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7mtycxoW43c

If Amendment 4 passes and becomes part of our state constitution:

  • Florida will be one of the most pro-abortion states in the nation.
  • Minors will be able to obtain abortions without parental consent!
  • Taxpayer-funded abortion will follow, given that a woman will have a constitutional right to an abortion “without delay.”
  • Pop-up abortion centers without doctors will develop, as the state can no longer regulate abortions, or require a doctor’s involvement.

Here’s the GOOD NEWS! We can still DEFEAT AMENDMENT 4! BUT WE NEED YOUR VOTE!

“A new poll has Amendment 4 on the brink of passing, indicating that 54 % will vote yes,” said Bishop Frank J. Dewane. “However, a 60% super majority is required to pass this dangerous constitutional amendment. It is clear that there is still time to defeat Amendment 4, with YOUR VOTE!  Don’t leave things up to chance. Exercise your own constitutional right – and your responsibility as a Christian – to have your voice heard! Make sure your friends and family vote, too. Let’s work together to defeat this dangerous pro-abortion constitutional amendment and VOTE NO ON 4! There is still time. May God bless you abundantly and may the Holy Spirit guide you in your important election decisions!”

To learn more about Amendment 4, please visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/offices/offices-departments/respect-life/amendment4/.

 

Parish and University host pro-life rally to defeat Amendment 4

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Ave Maria Parish and Ave Maria University hosted an Oct. 20, 2024, rally in opposition to Amendment 4, an extreme and dangerous proposed amendment to the Florida Constitution that would radically expand access to abortion.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane was among the featured speakers who described how the wording of Amendment 4 uses misleading language and if passed, the new law would be an immediate danger not only to full-term babies but also to mothers and girls.

Bishop Dewane lauded university officials for hosting the rally, which took place in the Field House before continuing with a rosary walk through the campus to the Parish church.

About 1,000 took part in the event where everyone was to reach out to 10 others about the dangers of Amendment 4, encouraging them to Vote NO on 4!

“Voting NO on 4 is a positive because it is crucial to saving lives,” Bishop Dewane said. “This amendment would embed within the Constitution of Florida unregulated abortion, establishing an unlimited right to abortion, making Florida one of the most pro-abortion states in the nation. Amendment 4 goes dangerously beyond even what Roe v. Wade included. It is extreme and it is unnecessary in the State of Florida. There is simply no need to expand an already expansive abortion law within Florida. I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to be a part of something like that. So, we have to stand up and Vote NO on 4!”

Sharon Lavesque, Respect Life Ministry Coordinator for Ave Maria Parish, was encouraged by the crowd of supporters at the rally, because each was there as part of God’s plan.

“We do not do it alone, for together we can do much,” Lavesque said. “We are the army of pro-lifers united in faith and determination to witness battle. We are the warriors for the babies, the moms and the girls. The defeat of Amendment 4 will give hope to other states. Now is the time God has put us here for this fight. Together we can stand for the life of the unborn and make a difference in the world.”

Father David Vidal, Pastor of Ave Maria Parish, offered the opening prayer, while other presenters included Mexican producer and actor Eduardo Verástegui; U.S. Rep. Mario Díaz-Balart (R-Florida); State Rep. Lauren Melo (R-Naples); Logan Church, National Political Director of Catholic Vote, and Manual Milanés, an “Ave Maria hero” who saved the lives of a mother and her four children by taking a bullet in the chest. In addition, also present were members of Doctors Against Amendment 4.

To learn more about Amendment 4, please visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/offices/offices-departments/respect-life/amendment4/.

News Briefs for the week of Oct. 11, 2024

Posted on by Bob Reddy

Diocesan priest named Monsignor

Congratulations to Father Robert R. Cannon who has been named Chaplain to His Holiness with the title Monsignor. Monsignor Cannon, who is a priest of the Diocese of Venice, and a retired U.S. Air Force Colonel, has recently retired as the Chancellor of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), where he served for the past eighth years.

 

Pets blessed across Diocese

To mark the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, Oct 4, 2024, Diocese of Venice Catholic Schools and Parishes hosted a blessing of the animals. At St. Francis Xavier Catholic School in Fort Myers, the Administrator, Father Steven Clemente, blessed with holy water each animal in turn. They ranged from horses to hamsters and every type and size of creature in between. Whether they were furry, scaly or feathery, there was no doubt the God’s creatures were much loved by their owners.

Many stand up against Amendment 4

Public prayer vigils took place in multiple locations throughout the Diocese of Venice in early October seeking the defeat of Amendment 4, an extreme and dangerous proposed amendment to the Florida Constitution that would radically expand access to abortion. The first “VOTE NO ON 4!” rally took place during rush hour on Oct. 1, 2024, in downtown Bradenton. The rally was sponsored by the St. Joseph Parish Respect Life Ministry. Holding “Vote No on 4” signs, the rally had a captive audience as traffic was at a near standstill. The goal was to educate motorists on the dangers of Amendment 4. On Sunday, Oct. 6, there were two “Life Chain Across America” prayer vigils, one on U.S. 41 in Bonita Springs, near St. Leo the Great Parish, and the other was in Naples at U.S. 41 and Pine Ridge Road, near St. William Parish. Several hearty women, men and children withstood the rain to be visible. To learn more about Amendment 4, please visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/offices/offices-departments/respect-life/amendment4/. Also, please remember that the 40 Days for Life Prayer Vigil is taking place through Nov. 3 in Sarasota, Fort Myers and Naples. For details, please visit www.40daysforlife.com and search for the nearest location. VOTE NO ON 4!

Catholic Charities hosts Family Fun Day

Guadalupe Social Services of Catholic Charities hosted its annual Family Fun Day on Oct. 6, 2024, in Immokalee. The events welcomed families for games, fun and food. The games included sack races, hoop tosses and more. Fun consisted of facepainting and playing games for prizes. The food included hot dogs, chips, frozen flavored ice, popcorn and more. For the adults there were also games with prizes. Staff from Catholic Charities and volunteers, such as the women’s lacrosse team from nearby Ave Maria University, helped run the event.

Register NOW for Oct. 19 Diocesan Marriage Conference – Space is Limited

Don’t miss the chance to discover holiness in your marriage! Time is running out to register for all Catholic engaged and married couples to join Bishop Frank J. Dewane for the fourth annual Diocesan “Together in Holiness” marriage conference, 8 a.m. to 2:45 p.m., Oct. 19, 2024, at Church of the Resurrection of Our Lord, 8121 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers. The Conference, a collaboration between the Diocese of Venice and the St. John Paul II Foundation, is a unique opportunity for all Catholic engaged and married couples in the Diocese to gather for a day dedicated to prayer, conversation, fellowship, and reflection on the beautiful vocation of marriage.  The day-long conference includes a Mass and Marriage Blessing celebrated by Bishop Dewane, and then inspirational talks by Catholic speakers Renzo and Monica Ortega, Father Alex Pince and Mallory Smyth. Childcare, as well as full and partial scholarships, are available. To register or for further information, please visit http://www.togetherinholiness.org/venice.

Rosary Congress continues until Oct. 11

The 2024 Diocesan Rosary Congress, scheduled at more than 50 Parishes between Oct. 5 and 11, 2024, got off to a strong start. At St. Thomas More Parish in Sarasota, the Rosary Congress ran from Oct. 7-8 and included 24 hours of Eucharistic Adoration with the hourly praying of the Holy Rosary. Prayer intentions were for the protection of life and the defeat of the dangerous Amendment 4, which, if approved, would radically expand access to abortion in Florida. However, several host Parishes were forced to cancel their participation in the Rosary Congress due to the threat and impacts of Hurricane Milton. For a list of participating Parishes, please visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/offices/offices-departments/evangelization/rosary-congress-2024/.

Red Mass in Naples Oct. 16

The Catholic Lawyer’s Association of Southwest Florida cordially invites all to its inaugural event. The Red Mass will be celebrated by Most Rev. Frank J. Dewane, Bishop of the Diocese of Venice at 6 p.m., Oct. 16, 2024, at St. Peter the Apostle Parish, 5130 Rattlesnake Hammock Road, Naples. RSVP to Tylan Ricketts at tricketts@willisdavidow.com.

Undy Sunday Collier County collection begins Oct. 19

The annual Undy Sunday Campaign will take place in Collier County the weekends of October 19 and 20, and October 26 and 27, 2024. This collection of new and unused underwear and socks helps thousands of underserved Elementary School students receive underwear and socks, a basic necessity many do not have. There are several ways to assist. To learn more, contact Allegra Belliard at 239-793-0059.

Red Mass in Sarasota Oct. 22

The 16th Annual Red Mass will be celebrated by Bishop Frank J. Dewane, Bishop of the Diocese of Venice at 5:30 p.m., Oct. 22, 2024, at St. Martha Catholic Church, 200 N. Orange Avenue in Sarasota. Judges, lawyers, lawmakers, their families and staff are cordially invited to attend.   A reception hosted by the Planning Committee of the Catholic Lawyers Guild will follow in the Fr. Fausto Parish Hall. Please send RSVPs before October 11 for the Red Mass and/or reception to Tina Mroczkowski at 941-366-5510 or tinam@bowmangeorge.com.

Catholic Mass on Veterans Day

On Veterans Day, Monday, Nov. 11, 2024, the Diocese of Venice will hold a Memorial Mass in honor of the men and women who have served our country and continue to serve and protect us today. This is the 15th year the Diocese has held a Mass on Veterans Day. The opening ceremonies begin at 2:45 p.m., with the Mass at 3:00 p.m. in the Amphitheater at the Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Road 72/Clark Road, approximately five miles east of I-75. The priests, deacons and Knights of Columbus in the Diocese will join in the celebration of the Mass. All are invited to attend, and active military personnel are asked to wear their uniform. Attendees are also encouraged to wear sunscreen and bring a hat. There is ample seating and parking at the cemetery. For further information please contact Gail Ardy at ardy@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-486-4714.

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