Diocese preparing for 2025 Hurricane Season

Helene and Milton have been added to the list of names of past hurricanes that will conjure up memories of wind, rain, storm surge, power outages and destruction in Southwest Florida.

Time and effort has enabled recovery for some from these devastating storms, but many are still trying to pick up the pieces of their lives while the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season looms large.

NOAA satellite image of Hurricane Milton coming ashore in Sarasota County on Oct. 9, 2024.

The 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season in Florida runs from June 1 to Nov. 30. With a history of these storms producing destruction in the region; just the mention of Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton (2024), Hurricane Ian (2022), Hurricane Irma (2017), or Hurricane Charley (2004), can bring back dreadful memories.

The Diocese of Venice, and many families, are still recovering from Helene and Milton, as well as Hurricane Ian nearly three years after the storm has passed. However, Bishop Frank J. Dewane said the Diocese of Venice is well-prepared for the coming season.

“The catastrophic impacts of back-to-back hurricanes in 2024, and Ian in 2022, are still fresh in the minds of those who witnessed not only the loss of lives but also the devastating destruction of buildings and livelihoods,” Bishop Frank J. Dewane said. “As a Diocese we do our best to prepare, but it is also important for us to pray for protection from future storms, and also for the people who continue to recover from previous disasters. As the new Atlantic Hurricane Season arrives, let us all ask God for protection and safety.”

Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., is still on the ground helping families recover from Helene and Milton, as well as Ian, stated Christopher M. Root, CEO of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice.

“At Catholic Charities, we’re still walking alongside families who were hit hard by last year’s hurricanes,” Root said. “The headlines may have moved on, but for many, recovery is still happening day by day. We haven’t stopped helping, and we’re also getting ready in case another storm comes our way this season. With support from Catholic Charities USA and a trained disaster response team on the ground in the Diocese of Venice, we’re doing everything we can to be prepared. Whether we’re helping someone rebuild after the last storm or responding to a new one, Catholic Charities is here with compassion, faith, and a real desire to serve.”

Experts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is forecasting a range of 13-19 total named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher), slightly above the seasonal average. This follows the 2024 season which produced 18 named storms, including Hurricanes Debby (Aug. 6-7), Helene (Sept. 26), and Milton (Oct. 9), each of which brought their own misery of wind and rain. Helene, which paralleled the coast, and Milton, whose eye went over Siesta Key, both brought unprecedented storm surges to the barrier islands from Naples in the south through Palmetto to the north. NOAA stated that numerous factors were considered in the forecast, including warmer than average ocean temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean, reduced Atlantic trade winds and less wind shear, all of which tend to favor tropical storm formation, NOAA reported.

Weather forecasters and emergency management officials stress that each tropical system is different, explaining that just because you survived Debby, Helene, Milton, Ian, Irma or Charley, without any damage doesn’t mean the next storm, whether it is a tropical storm or major hurricane, couldn’t destroy everything around you.

With many people no longer watching local news, NOAA officials also stress the need for everyone to have access to reliable local weather reports to avoid confusion when a storm approaches. This can be accessed through the National Weather Service, National Hurricane Center, local news outlets or other trustworthy weather sources.

While keeping a wary eye on the weather forecast is important, being prepared before storms approach is just as vital. Preparedness means many things, but a key part is simply knowing where you live in relationship to evacuation zones in your city or county. Also, knowing how well constructed a home is can also impact preparations and planning in the event an evacuation is ordered. Also, as many learned during Helene and Milton, power could be out for days, or weeks, following a storm, and the decision must also be made if one wants to stay under those conditions.

The names for this season, provided by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), include Andrea, Barry, Chantal, Dexter, Erin and others. The list of 21 names is repeated every six years. The only time that there is a change is if a storm is so deadly or costly that the future use of its name on a different storm would be inappropriate for obvious reasons of sensitivity (Helene, Milton, Ian, Irma, Charley, Katrina, etc.).

If a storm comes

Should disaster strike, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, will be at the forefront in preparing and responding. Catholic Charities will send a team to the epicenter of the disaster and then coordinate to set up relief centers — called PODs, which stands for Points-Of-Distribution – where the need is greatest. These centers – often located at Parishes or next to Catholic Charities offices – will be sites where water, clothing, food and other disaster relief assistance can be distributed. PODs were established at multiple locations following Hurricanes Helene and Milton, with truckloads of water, food and cleaning supplies distributed to needy families.

One way people help after a storm is through the Catholic Charities Disaster Rebound Bucket program. These buckets are filled with practical supplies that give families a head start on cleanup and recovery. If you visit CCDOV | Disaster Recovery, you’ll find a short video that shows how the buckets work and an Amazon Wish List for anyone who wants to donate items directly.

As noted earlier, the Diocese of Venice is experienced in responding to these storms. Therefore, each Parish, Catholic school and other entities have hurricane preparedness plans which assist in preparation before a storm and recovery afterwards.

NOAA and emergency management officials remind everyone that taking a few steps now can prevent panic and confusion if a storm were to threaten the area. To track and learn more about hurricanes, visit www.nhc.noaa.gov/.

Being prepared

Emergency management officials emphasize that having an emergency preparedness plan will help lessen the stress on individuals when, inevitably, a new tropical system forms and threatens the region. Key things like knowing your evacuation zone, knowing if your home can withstand forecasted winds, and having emergency supplies and documents ready ahead of time, are key actions to take ahead of the season.

First, officials recommend each family have a Disaster Supply Kit, which should have a minimum of enough water and food to last three to seven days. That means one gallon of water per person/per day, plus enough non-perishable food that does not require electricity to prepare and consume safely. Those who care for infants or the elderly must plan for what specialty items will be needed.

Other key items for a Disaster Supply Kit include clothing (rain gear and sturdy shoes), blankets/pillows, first aid kit, all medicines and prescription drugs, toiletries, flashlights, battery-operated radio, cash, important documents in a waterproof container, and any items for your pets.

If a storm were to strike, getting basic supplies will be a challenge. The Federal Emergency Management Agency stresses that in the aftermath of a major disaster, you should expect to be on your own for at least three days, if not longer, before substantial state and federal resources can be expected. If you have a Disaster Supply Kit that went unused in 2024, inspect it to ensure all items are fresh and the batteries are still good.

Those who have medical or transportation issues must contact their city/county Emergency Management Office (the number is available online or you can dial the non-emergency 511), to register and to potentially be relocated to a shelter if a storm threatens. This registration must be done annually.

Another key action is to make sure any insurance is up-to-date, and photographs are taken of all valuables before the storm. Keep in mind that hurricane and flood insurance will take a minimum of 30 days to go into effect.

Mooney 2025 seniors graduate

Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School held its commencement exercises for 158 graduating seniors on May 23, 2025, at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Center on the Sarasota bayfront.

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

New at graduation this year was the presentation of the first Cardinal Mooney Outstanding Senior Award, presented by Principal Ben Hopper to Sy’monique Simon and Mark Yencik. These two students were selected because they demonstrate the school’s ideals of religious and moral responsibility, personal and social responsibility, intellectual achievement, and a sense of purpose and direction, among other desirable traits and qualities. Their pictures and distinct honor will be placed in the school lobby.

The Cardinal Mooney graduating seniors performed approximately 20,000 community service hours, and 94 percent are going directly to college. They earned nearly $10.5 million in scholarship offers, a number that does not include Florida Bright Future Scholarships. Several dozen will be attending Catholic universities, and one will attend the U.S. Air Force Academy. Other graduates will serve in the military, work or have a gap year.

Porter Strand was the class Valedictorian and Sy’monique Simon was Salutatorian. Father Alex Pince, Cardinal Mooney Chaplain, offered the invocation, while Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocesan Superintendent of Catholic Education, offered the Final Blessing.

 

News briefs for the week of May 30, 2025

St. Andrew student a national contest winner

St. Andrew Catholic School fifth-grader Destiny Campos has been recognized as a Studio 3:16 contest winner. The Cape Coral student was chosen from 2,000 student applications nationwide. Studio 3:16, a faith-based program that shares the Gospel through storytelling, music, and humor, encouraged students to draw and write about a day spent with co-founder Shevin McCullough. Destiny’s story, inspired by John 1:5 – “The light shines in the darkness” – shared a powerful message about cheating, forgiveness, and shining the light of Jesus to others. Her story deeply moved the judges and earned her class a pizza party and a live Zoom with Shevin himself!

School choir performs sacred music concert in Bradenton

The student choir at St. Joseph Catholic School in Bradenton performed a sacred music concert on May 25, 2025. The “Choir Concert – Ode to Joy” featured the full school choir, the “Joy Singers,” and groups of 3rd and 4th grade students, 5th-8th grade students, and 8th grade singers. This included several singers performing solos and duets. The choir was accompanied by string and percussion musicians. Music teacher Jody Kienzler organized the concert, which was dedicated to outgoing Principal Deborah Suddarth, who has taken a position as Associate Superintendent for Catholic Schools in the Diocese of St. Petersburg.

Theology on Tap June 19 in Sarasota

Theology on Tap is a program for young adults in their 20s and 30s, providing an opportunity to explore faith topics in a relaxed social setting at Oak & Stone, 5405 University Parkway, University Park. The next gathering is June 19 and will feature a presentation from Father Christian Chami, Parochial Vicar at St. Jude Parish in Sarasota with the topic: “St. Charbel: Lessons in silence, faith and obedience.” The evening begins with food and refreshments at 7 p.m., with the presentations and discussions about the Catholic Faith beginning at 8 p.m. Please email Andres Prias at prias@dioceseofvenice.org with any questions.

 

 

Ordination to the Priesthood July 12

Bishop Frank J. Dewane invites the faithful to the Ordination to the Priesthood of Transitional Deacons Joseph Doherty, Jacob Gwynn and Pat Long. The Ordination will take place at 11 a.m., Saturday, July 12, at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, 1301 Center Road, Venice. All are welcome and encouraged to attend this important event in the lives of Deacons Joseph, Jacob and Pat as well as the Diocese of Venice. A reception will follow. The Ordination will also be livestreamed.

Respect Life Volunteers Needed!

Do you have a passion for life?  The Diocese of Venice needs you!  We are looking for volunteers and leaders interested in becoming involved in local respect life activities with their Parish. Many new families are moving to Southwest Florida, and we need your help! It’s very rewarding work. For those living in the Palmetto or Parrish area, your assistance is especially needed. To get involved, please contact Tavia Ames, ames@dioceseofvenice.org, or 941-441-1101.

Ave Maria Youth Conference July 11-13

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

 

Support After Abortion help available

Are you or someone you know struggling because of a past abortion? You are not alone. Know that healing retreats and support are available for anyone who has experienced an abortion, including mothers, fathers and other family members who have been hurt. For help, or to learn more about the Diocese of Venice support after abortion program, Project Rachel, simply call or text 941-412-5860, or email project.rachel@diocese, in either English or Spanish. All contacts are confidential.

2025 graduations held at Verot and Neumann Catholic high schools

Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers and St. John Neumann Catholic High School in Naples held their commencement exercises in mid-May.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated the Baccalaureate Mass for each of the schools, with the St. John Neumann Mass celebrated May 15, 2025, at St. Elizabeth Seton Parish in Naples, and the Bishop Verot Mass on May 16, at Our Lady of Light Parish in Fort Myers.

Bishop Dewane first thanked the parents and guardians for entrusting their children to a Diocesan Catholic high school for four years of their education, acknowledging that they made a personal sacrifice to do so. The Bishop then congratulated the graduates for their own accomplishments, both academically and athletically, but reminded them that he was more interested in how they grew spiritually; that is in developing a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

“It is my prayer that you have learned the message of Jesus Christ, and that it is woven into who you are as men and women, made in the image and likeness of God,” Bishop Dewane said. “As you strive to succeed in your own endeavors, do so with the presence of the Holy Spirit as that additional assistance in your life. It is faith that allows us to do more than we can do alone. Trust your life to God, while giving thanks for the gifts you have been given.”

The Neumann commencement exercises included 79 graduates receiving their diplomas. The class, which accumulated more than 10,000 service hours, also earned $11.5 million in scholarship offers and nearly all are going off to college. The Valedictorian was Morgan Thayer Zolna and Salutatorian was Ariana Petrovic. The guest speaker was Dr. Emily Howell, a professor at Ave Maria University. One graduate will be attending a military service academy.

The Bishop Verot commencement, with 219 graduates, included 33 Summa Cum Laude students. There are no valedictorian or salutatorian recognized during graduation, Alexander Price provided the introductory address, while Sophia Smith offered the commencement address. The class earned more than $15 million in scholarship offers and completed more than 21,000 service hours. One graduate will be attending a military service academy.

The Baccalaureate Masses and Commencement Exercises for Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School in Sarasota and Donahue Catholic Academy of Ave Maria Parish in Ave Maria are scheduled for later in May.

The graduating Class of 2025 went through a disrupted freshman year with the Covid-19 pandemic when masks and social distancing were still in full effect. They also dealt with the devastating impacts of Hurricane Ian in 2022 as well as subsequent storms in 2024. Please pray for all the new graduates!

Catholic Community Foundation presents 21 scholarships for 2025

Bishop Frank J. Dewane, joined by Board members of the Catholic Community Foundation of Southwest Florida Inc., honored 22 scholarship winners during a ceremony on May 15, 2025, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice.

The recipients of the Mary Fran Carroll, Coseglia, Schaerf, and Schwarz Scholarships were recognized for their outstanding academic achievements and for their commitment to continuing their education in pursuit of wide-ranging career paths such as education, medicine, business, engineering and more. The Foundation Scholarship Committee carefully reviewed 150 applications before determining the winners. Many of the Foundation Board members were present for the luncheon.

Bishop Dewane opened the presentation with prayer and said he was impressed with the new Foundation scholars, noting their academic success and ambition to seek out distinctive goals. “We pray that what they embark upon, the students will certainly be successful in their life.”

Michael Morse, Executive Director of the Catholic Community Foundation, congratulated the new scholars, saying the young men and women are worthy to forever be known as Foundation Scholars.

“You are inspirations to all of us,” Morse said. “Our committee works hard in the selection process, and it is one of the most rewarding things the Board does. When we see your application and what you have done and are going to do, it gives us such hope that the future is in good hands.”

The Mary Fran Carroll Scholarship provided a total of 15 academic scholarships ($3,500) to residents of Sarasota County and is available for tuition, books and fees. This year there were 13 traditional scholarship winners (high school graduates pursuing an undergraduate degree) and two non-traditional winners (an adult learner seeking an advanced education after being away from school for a number of years). The scholarship is renewable annually up to a total of five academic years ($17,500 total) for students maintaining a minimum unweighted GPA of 3.2 or greater, while also making progress toward their career goal. In the past year, many students had their scholarship renewed.

The Coseglia Scholarship provides a one-time scholarship ($1,100) to one financially needy graduating senior from each of the four Catholic High Schools within the Diocese of Venice. The winners were nominated by their high schools and approved by the Foundation Board.

The Frederick W. Schaerf, M.D., Ph.D. Neuroscience Scholarship provides a one-time scholarship ($4,000) to a graduating senior from Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers interested in pursuing a career in neuroscience or similar field. This was the sixth year the scholarship was offered.

The Schwarz Scholarship is a one-time college scholarship ($7,700) to be awarded for tuition, books, fees, and housing expenses for a student graduating from Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School in Sarasota.

During the scholarship ceremony, the recipients shared their personal experiences as well as college and career goals. Each expressed their appreciation for the scholarship from the Foundation. Many specifically explained how the scholarship money will assist in lessening the financial burden of attending college and pursuing their career goals. Several are interested in entering the medical field either as a doctor, nurse or researcher, while others are interested in pursuing careers in business.

Lucrecia Bagnati, a non-traditional Mary Fran Carroll scholar, will be taking online courses with Southern New Hampshire University to earn a degree in neuropsychology so she can become a therapist. The mother of three joked that now she and her children will all be going to college and studying together. She was inspired to go to seek a degree by her husband, a veteran, who struggles with PTSD. “I want to better understand what he is going through and help people like him.”

The Catholic Community Foundation of Southwest Florida Inc. was established to provide philanthropic opportunities for individuals, such as Mary Fran Carroll, to create lasting gifts in support of Catholic programs and ministries within the Diocese of Venice. This year, the Foundation is on track to distribute $3.5 million in endowed support for Catholic Schools, Parishes, Seminarian education, programs for the needy, college scholarships and more.

To learn more about the Catholic Community Foundation, please contact Michael Morse at 941-441-1124 or by email at Morse@dioceseofvenice.org. You can also visit the Foundation website at www.CCFDioceseofvenice.org.

2025 Catholic Community Foundation of Southwest Florida, Inc. Scholars

Mary Fran Carroll Scholars – Traditional

Sydney Pablo, Venice High School, U.S.. Military Academy;

Chrystal Coronado-Chavez, Sarasota High School, State College of Florida;

Arianna Perez, Venice High School, Florida State University;

Rachel Mintz, Riverview High School, Florida State University;

Maria Ballesteros, Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School, St. Leo University;

Isabella Nealon, Pineview School, University of Notre Dame;

Laura Escobar Londono, Sarasota High School, undecided;

Cristin Giurgui, North Port High School, University of South Florida;

Sofie Turkancikova, Venice High School, University of South Florida;

Juan Sanabria, Riverview High School, University of South Florida;

Elise Galloway, Venice High School, University of Central Florida;

Natalie Bryja, Venice High School, University of Florida;

Deianeira McClain, Riverview High School, University of Florida.

 

Mary Fran Carroll Scholars – Non-Traditional

Lesli Resendiz, undecided;

Lucrecia Bagnati, Southern New Hampshire University.

 

Frank and Florence Coseglia Memorial Scholarship

Maria Lander, Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School, Ave Maria University;

Sophia Escobar, St. John Neumann Catholic High School, St. Thomas University, Miami;

Natalie PIneda, Donahue Catholic Academy of Ave Maria Parish, Rutgers University;

Lily Lockard, Bishop Verot Catholic High School, St. Anselm College, N.H.

 

James and Margaret Schwarz Scholarship

Morgan Martin, Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School, University of Florida.

 

Frederick W. Schaerf, M.D., Ph.D. Neuroscience Scholarship

Ella Farah, Bishop Verot Catholic High School, University of South Florida.

News Briefs for the week of May 23, 2025

Bishop Verot baseball team falls in state semifinals

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

St. Martha Catholic Schools unveils new mascot

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

Ordination to the Permanent Diaconate May 31 in Naples

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

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

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

Totus Tuus Summer Catechetical Camp

The Totus Tuus one-week Parish Catechetical summer day camp program, for students entering grades 1-12, aims to inspire young people to long for holiness, develop a deep desire for conversion and personally renew their faith with a stronger prayer life. In 2022, the Diocese of Venice launched its pilot program, with great success. The program has continued and expanded each year and will be offered at 18 Parishes throughout the Diocese this summer, between June 1 and July 25, 2025. The following is a list of host Parishes:

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

 

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

 

Ave Maria Youth Conference July 11-13

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

 

Diocese of Venice rejoices in election of new Pope

The election of Pope Leo XIV on May 8, 2025, has brought with it a sense of great excitement and anticipation as the new Holy Father, the first from the U.S., settles into his position as the Successor of St. Peter.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane said the election of Pope Leo XIV was the work of the Holy Spirit, and a moment of tremendous grace and blessing for the Universal Church.

“Pope Leo XIV brings with him the strength and charism of St. Augustine, and the humanity and courage of Pope Leo XIII, who was an architect of many of the social teachings of the Church,” Bishop Dewane said while also calling on the faithful of the Diocese of Venice to pray for the new Holy Father and the sacred ministry entrusted to him.

To commemorate the election of Pope Leo XIV, Bishop Dewane will celebrate a Mass in his honor at 12:15 p.m., Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at Epiphany Cathedral, 310 S. Sarasota Ave., Venice. All are welcome to attend. The Mass will be livestreamed at www.facebook.com/epiphanycathedral, or at www.epiphanycathedral.org.

Bishop Dewane said he was encouraged to hear that during Pope Leo XIV’s first Regina Caeli, he called on youth to “accept an invitation of the Church and Christ the Lord.”

“That message is something which builds upon the legacy of the Popes since St. John Paul II and shows insight into how he will define his papacy,” Bishop Dewane said.

While the Bishop does not know Pope Leo XIV well, the two spoke in depth during a dinner at the North American College in Rome in 2023, while seated next to each other.

“It was a nice evening, and we spoke about many different things,” Bishop Dewane said. “My mother was from the South Side of Chicago, where Pope Leo is from, and we spent some time discussing that. When I told him that I was from the Diocese of Venice in Florida, he smiled and said ‘Oh! I know the area well!’ He went on to say that one of his brothers lived in Port Charlotte, and that he had been to the area for a visit,” Bishop Dewane said. “He was a very humble man who expressed interest in what was happening here in Florida, and in the Diocese of Venice.”

Catholic Center

At the Catholic Center in Venice, Diocesan staffers watched the announcement of the news in the main conference room, where a livestream from the Vatican was being broadcast. Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocesan Superintendent of Catholic Education, translated from the Italian.

As could be expected, when it was announced that an American had been elected as Pope, the group erupted with shouts of shock and joy. When Pope Leo XIV made his first appearance, a cheer went up and party poppers were set off as confetti showered the staff.

Schools

Students at Diocesan Catholic schools took great interest in the election of Pope Leo XIV, with individual classrooms and in some cases the entire student body gathered to witness Church history.

All of the students at St. Ann Catholic School in Naples gathered in the Jubilee Center to await the announcement of the new Pope. Teachers used this as a learning opportunity to explain how a pope is elected and what role the Holy Father plays in the leadership of the Universal Church.

Meanwhile, at Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers, the election of Pope Leo XIV fell on the last day of class ahead of graduation. The school posted on social media about the twin events happening: “It’s not every day you witness a moment that’ll be in history books. It’s even rarer when it happens on your last day of high school! Talk about divine timing.”

Students at St. Martha Catholic School wrote messages to the Cardinal-electors ahead of the conclave asking that they seek the guidance of God and the Holy Spirit in choosing the next Holy Father. They were surprised by the election of an American Pope.

Parishes

The faithful across the Diocese of Venice learned about the election of Pope Leo XIV via television or the internet, with everyone curious to learn about the man who was born in Chicago and was an Augustinian missionary.

As soon as the announcement was broadcast, preparations were made to update the prayer intentions for the next Masses to include prayers for the Pontificate of Leo XIV.

St. Joseph Parish in Bradenton put up their traditional Easter Season decorations of gold and white bunting, replacing the black bunting which had been put up following the passing of Pope Francis on April 21.

Dolores Conklin of St. Joseph Parish said it was exciting to have an American Pope. The news caused her to reach out to family members across the country. “It is so wonderful to talk to everyone. I immediately felt a connection to him when he came out on the balcony at St. Peter’s. His smile and his clear humility. I pray to God that he will unite the Catholic Church in the United States and around the world.”

George Connor of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish in Osprey was fascinated that the new Pope was from a religious order, just as Pope Francis was. “He is a man of the world. He is from Chicago, but he has been everywhere. He has seen the poor where they are. That must have had an impact on him. I pray he has the strength and grace to lead the Church during these turbulent times.”

Catholic schools’ track and field athletes excel at States

Student athletes from three Diocese of Venice Catholic high schools recently competed at the Florida High School Athletic Association State Championships on May 9 and 10, 2025, at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville.

Ryan Peterson, a senior from Bishop Verot Catholic School in Fort Myers, is the discus class 2a State Champion with a throw of 52.48 meters (172-feet 2-inches). Ryan also placed seventh in the shot put, earning a second medal.

Bishop Verot sent 20 athletes to the State Championships, with the following also medaling: Elise Bolgiano, who took third in the high jump, at 1.57 meters (5-feet 1¾-inches); Zachary Zielke, third in 3200 with a time of 9:22.27, and eighth in the 1600; Jyden German was third in the 100, with a time of 10.90; Jadrien Carmo was third in the 400, with a time of 47.97; Andrew Marino was fifth in the 1600; and James Little IV was eighth in the 110 hurdles. Overall, the Verot boys team combined to finish seventh out of 49 teams.

At the same competition, Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School in Sarasota entered seven athletes. The top performer was Zoe Kirby who medaled by finishing seventh in the javelin. She also participated in the shot put and discus.

St. John Neumann Catholic High School in Naples sent nine athletes to the class 1a State Championship which was contested on May 10. Top performers were: Grace London, who finished third in the javelin with a throw on 36.73 meters (120-feet 6-inches); Mylee Van de Wouw finished eighth in the long jump; and Mason Armstrong finished eighth in the shot put.

Meanwhile, the Bishop Verot boys baseball team is in the State Final Four May 19 against Miami Springs, at Hammond Stadium in Fort Myers. To earn the right to play in the Final Four, the Vikings earned their second consecutive 3a regional championship on May 8, clinching the deciding game in the best of three series in extra innings.

Congratulations to all of the student athletes at the Diocesan Catholic high schools for having an outstanding year!

News Briefs for the week of May 16, 2025

Announcement

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

Father Anthony Gilborges, OSFS, is relieved of his duties as Parochial Vicar of Our Lady of Light Parish in Fort Myers, effective February 10, 2025, and thus has returned to his Religious Community.

National Eucharistic Revival Eucharistic Missionary Formation Opportunity

After three years of renewed understanding and reverence for Jesus’s Real Presence, the time has come to go forth, to share the good news of our Eucharistic Lord with the world, to evangelize! An exciting new initiative from the National Eucharistic Revival offers Catholics the opportunity to do just that, by becoming “officially” commissioned, Eucharistic Missionaries. The faithful are heartily encouraged to take part in this final phase of the National Eucharistic Revival!  The five-week online series is available in both English and Spanish. Registration information is available here: https://dioceseofvenice.org/eucharistic-congress/year-of-mission/.

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

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

Totus Tuus Summer Catechetical Camp

The Totus Tuus one-week Parish Catechetical summer day camp program, for students entering grades 1-12, aims to inspire young people to long for holiness, develop a deep desire for conversion and personally renew their faith with a stronger prayer life. In 2022, the Diocese of Venice launched its pilot program, with great success. The program has continued and expanded each year and will be offered at 18 Parishes throughout the Diocese this summer, between June 1 and July 25, 2025. The following is a list of host Parishes:

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

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

Students combine bible lesson with STREAM work

Sixth-grade religious students at St. Francis Xavier Catholic School in Fort Myers read the Old Testament Covenants in the Bible, and then worked in groups using the details in the stories to create their very own 3D models. The students utilized their STREAM (science, technology, religion, engineering, arts, and math) skills while working in teams to create awesome results!

Ave Maria Youth Conference July 11-13

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

 

 

2025 Schools’ Angels Devotional Project concludes – Catholic students grow closer to Christ

The more than 6,500 Diocese of Venice Catholic school students have spent the past six months taking part in a special devotional project wherein they learned more about Angels and their importance in Salvation History, all in a continued effort to help each student grow closer to Jesus Christ.

The theme for the 2024-2025 Diocesan Catholic School Devotional Project was from the Litany of the Holy Guardian Angel: “Instruct me in the duties and truth of Salvation.” The Devotional Project was inspired by Pslam 91:11: “For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.”

The focus on the devotion to the Angels is supported by Bishop Frank J. Dewane, who has encouraged the devotional project since its inception in the 2020-2021 academic year.

The Devotional Project had two parts, a Junior Catechist program where eighth grade students from each of the Diocese’s 12 elementary schools received specialized training in November 2024 and brought their knowledge about the Angels, Guardian Angels and Archangels, and how to grow closer to the Lord into their respective schools. In addition, an art contest took place encouraging students from kindergarten through high school to submit their vision of Angels, Guadian Angels and Archangels.

The Devotional Project closing ceremony took place May 2, 2025, at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Venice. Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocesan Superintendent of Catholic Education, celebrated Mass for the Junior Catechists and the art contest winners. Also participating were teachers and parents.

Each Junior Catechist received a gift basket for their hard work, while the art contest winners received a gift, ribbon, a framed 20×30 print and prayer cards with their artwork. On the reverse of the card was a Prayer to the Holy Angels.

During the Mass, Father Belmonte stressed the importance of how all Angels help us overcome our fears. “They are our great protectors,” he said, stating that the word angel occurs 200 times in Sacred Scripture, 100 times in the Old Testament, and 100 times in the New Testament.

“The message that we receive from God, from the Church, from the Holy Angels is this: ‘Have no fear!’” Father Belmonte said. “The Catechism of the Catholic Church (336), affirms the existence of angels and traditional function: ‘From its beginning until death, human life is surrounded by their watchful care and intercession.’ St Basil the Great taught, ‘Beside each believer stands an angel as protector and shepherd leading him to life.’”

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

Art contest

For the art contest winners, there were more than 200 entries. Honorees were, Grace Breen, grade 12, Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers; Dominik Bock, Grade 12, Bishop Verot; Shiloh Teeter, grade 11, Bishop Verot; Avah Kipp, grade 11, Bishop Verot; Sicily Pace, grade 8, St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School in Port Charlotte; Isla Collins, grade 6, St. Martha Catholic School in Sarasota; Luke Holderness, grade 4, Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School in Venice; and Luke Falestiny, grade 1, Epiphany.

Grace Breen, who has been recognized for artwork for the past three years, was proud to be honored for her artwork, which she said was very personal. Having a special place in her heart for St. Michael the Archangel, the saint is at the center of the piece, holding his shield and wearing armor while standing atop a volcano, which Grace said showed Michael conquering evil powers. At the top of the image, she included St. Raphael and St. Gabriel. In addition, there is God on His throne, in front of the host and in the background is the Holy Spirit, a visual representation of the Holy Trinity. A golden ribbon, held by God, represents the fabric of time.

Sicily Pace of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School in Port Charlotte decided to create a beautiful colorful image of her Guardian Angel. “I wanted to show what she looks like in heaven as she looks over me,” Sicily said.

At reception following the Mass and awards, all of the participants joined in praying the Prayer to the Holy Angels:

“O Leaders of the heavenly armies, although we are always unworthy, we beseech you that with your prayers you may encircle us with the protection of the wings of your angelic glory. Watch over us as we bow low and earnestly cry out to you: Deliver us from trouble, O princes of the heavenly armies. Amen.”