schools Archives - Page 15 of 71

News Briefs for the week of August 9, 2024

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

Appointments

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

Father Hugh J. McGuigan, O.S.F.S., relieved of his appointment as a member of the College of Consultors, effective July 1, 2024.

Msgr. Patrick Dubois, V.F., as a new member to the College of Consultors, effective July 1, 2024.

Father Simon Hoang Minh Dao, CRM, relieved of his duties as Parochial Vicar and Chaplain for the Vietnamese Community at St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers, effective July 13, 2024, and thus has returned to his Religious Community.

Father Joseph Than Van Liem, CRM, as Parochial Vicar and Chaplain for the Vietnamese Community at St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers, effective July 13, 2024.

Diocese celebrates 40th anniversary

On July 17, 1984, the Diocese of Venice was erected by St. John Paul II from parts of the Archdiocese of Miami, Diocese of Orlando and the Diocese of St. Petersburg. To celebrate the occasion of the Diocese’s 40^th anniversary, the staff of the Diocesan Catholic Center gathered with Bishop Frank J. Dewane for a group photo in front of the Chancery on July 26, 2024, and then attended a special Mass for the staff, celebrated by Bishop Dewane, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center. A celebratory luncheon followed.

Diocese weathers Debby

Torrential rain and strong winds battered parts of the Diocese of Venice when Hurricane Debby paralleled the coast on Aug. 3-5, 2024. While there was flooding at many properties in Sarasota and Manatee Counties, Diocesan Parish and Catholic school staff worked hard to mitigate the impacts of any water intrusion. One of the starkest examples of flooding was found at Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School in Sarasota which had several feet of water on their fields after an estimated 16-inches of rain fell. Ss. Peter and Paul the Apostle Parish in Bradenton had a leak in one of its buildings, which caused minor damage. Flood waters surrounded Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice but did not cause any damage. The retreat center was devastated by extreme flooding in 2022 during Hurricane Ian.

Marriage retreat held in Lake Placid

The Dialogo Matrimonial MDS retreat took place the weekend of Aug. 3-5, 2024, in Lake Placid. The purpose of the group is to support and assist in the spiritual growth of couples and marriages. Marriage Dialogue is a weekend experience starting Friday afternoon through Sunday afternoon. This experience gives couples the opportunity to celebrate their married life by giving them time to share their feelings, hopes, joys, frustrations, sorrows, and dreams in a completely private atmosphere and out of reach of the stresses and distractions of daily life. During the weekend there are talks given by a team of trained couples. Each talk provides an opportunity for spouses to first see themselves as individuals different from each other, then to see their marriage and relationship as a couple, and finally to develop other areas of their married life. In the movement the motto is: “With Jesus everything is possible, and it is not necessary to change your partner, you just need to change your attitude.” All topics of the retreat have as reference the Word of God, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, as well as other relevant books and resources.

Catholic Charities Summertime Appeal continues

Every day, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., serves the most vulnerable population in the 10 counties that constitute the Diocese of Venice by feeding, housing, empowering, and helping all in need. This summer, you can be the one that makes a difference. Your acts of kindness have the power to transform lives and leave a positive impact in our community. The Catholic Charities “Summertime and the Giving is Easy” Appeal is asking for your support. Any gift will make a positive impact on our less fortunate brothers and sisters! To donate to Summertime and the Giving is Easy Campaign, please visit www.catholiccharitiesdov.org or mail a check to Catholic Charities, “Summertime and the Giving is Easy,” 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34285.

Theology on Tap on August 15 in Sarasota

The next Theology on Tap, an outreach to young adults, is 7 p.m., Aug. 15, 2024, in a new location, Big Top Brewing – Restaurant & Brewery, 3045 Fruitville Commons Boulevard, Sarasota. Theology on Tap meets on the third Thursday of each month. The featured speaker for August 15 is Jim Gontis, Diocese of Venice Director of Evangelization, and the topic will be “Four Marian Dogmas.” Theology on Tap is presented by the Diocesan Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry. For more information, contact Andres Prias at prias@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-484-9543.

New Podcast Focuses on Amendment 4

The podcast of the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops, Catholics Across the Aisle: Commentary on Public Policy and Civic Life, brings a non-partisan moral voice to public dialogue on key policy issues of the day and assists listeners to become educated and active participants in civic life. The podcast’s latest episode focuses on the urgent issue of Amendment 4. Sara Johnson, statewide grassroots director for Vote No on 4 Florida, and Michele Taylor, FCCB’s associate director for communications, discuss deceptive and extreme Amendment 4. This amendment on Florida’s general election ballot would allow late-term abortions and jeopardize health and safety protections for women and minors. It removes doctors from the abortion decision, includes a broad “health” loophole, and eliminates parental consent. Hear more on why Floridians should vote NO on Amendment 4 on this new episode of Catholics Across the Aisle.

News Briefs for the week of July 12, 2024

Posted on July 11, 2024July 11, 2024 by Bob Reddy

Appointments

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

Father Raùl Zamora, as Parochial Vicar of St. Leo the Great Parish, Bonita Springs, effective June 18, 2024.

Father Augustine Ignasimuthu, as Parochial Vicar of Ss. Peter and Paul the Apostles Parish, Bradenton, effective June 26, 2024.

Father Joseph Duffy, F.S.S.P., as Parochial Vicar of Corpus Christi Chapel, Naples, effective July 1, 2024.

Diocesan Haitian Catholic community celebrates 35 years in Fort Myers

To mark the 35th anniversary of the Haitian Catholic Community in Fort Myers, the Mass was celebrated, and a grand commemoration followed on June 30, 2024, at St. Francis Xavier Parish in Fort Myers. Bishop Frank J. Dewane was joined by the Haitian priests of the Diocese, with Most. Rev. Jacques Fabre-Jeune, Bishop of the Diocese of Charleston, serving as the main homilist. Father Jean-Marie Fritz Ligonde, Diocesan Director of Haitian Ministry, said the Haintian Catholic community is growing in the area and celebrations such as the one on June 30 are important. In addition to St. Francis Xavier, the Mass is celebrated in Haitian-Creole weekly at five additional Diocesan Parishes, including: St. Charles Borromeo in Port Charlotte; St. Michael in Wauchula; Sacred Heart in Bradenton; Our Lady of Guadalupe in Immokalee; and St. Peter the Apostle in Naples. An annual Diocesan-wide celebration takes place on New Year’s Day, marking the independence of Haiti and the Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God.

Local doctors meet with Bishop

The leadership of the Southwest Florida Guild of the Catholic Medical Association met with Bishop Frank J. Dewane at the Diocesan Catholic Center in Venice on July 10, 2024. The group provided Bishop Dewane with their annual report on their latest activities, including plans for continuing Catholic medical educational seminars within the Diocese.

Fourth of July parade displays patriotism in Ave Maria

The 8th Annual “God Bless America” Independence Day Bike and Golf Cart Parade presented by Ave Maria Parish took place on the Fourth of July, 2024. The celebration followed Mass and began in the piazza in front of the church and included patriotic songs, a reflection from Retired U.S. Navy Captain Glenn Cooper, prayers and then a parade that included about 500 people. There were motorcycles, bikes, trikes, golf carts, strollers, as well as fire trucks from the Collier County Fire Department. The event was sponsored by the Knights of Columbus Ave Maria Assembly 3862. During the event, the Knights handed out pamphlets which included the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution. The goal of the annual event was to pass along patriotism to the next generation.

Summertime and the Giving is Easy Appeal

Every day, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., serves in the 10 counties that constitute the Diocese of Venice the most vulnerable population by feeding, housing, empowering, and helping all in need. This summer, you can be the one that makes a difference. Your acts of kindness have the power to transform lives and leave a positive impact in our community. The Catholic Charities Summertime and the Giving is Easy Appeal is asking for your support. The giving is easy! Your gift will make a positive impact on our less fortunate brothers and sisters! To donate to Summertime and the Giving is Easy Campaign, please visit www.catholiccharitiesdov.org or mail a check to Catholic Charities, “Summertime and the Giving is Easy,” 1000 Pinebrook Road, Sarasota, FL 34285.

Totus Tuus summer program still going strong

The final two weeks of the Diocese of Venice Totus Tuus summer program are here. The week-long program is visiting different Parishes each week and offering day camp for students entering grades 1 – 6, as well as evening camp for middle school and high school students entering grades 7 – 12. The camp is inspiring young people to long for holiness, develop a deep desire for conversion and personally renew their faith with a stronger prayer life. Two missionary teams are going to different Parishes each week. In the first four weeks, the program has taken place at eight Parishes, with the most recent at Our Lady Queen of Heaven in LaBelle. For the week of July 14-19, the program will be at Our Lady of Light, Fort Myers during daytime and St. John XXIII in the evening; with a separate program running the same week at St. Cecilia, Fort Myers. The final week of the program runs from July 21-25 at Our Lady of the Angels in Lakewood Ranch, and St. Peter the Apostle in Naples.

Theology on Tap on July 18 in Sarasota

The next Theology on Tap, an outreach to young adults, is 7 p.m., July 18, 2024, in a new location, Big Top Brewing Brewery & Restaurant, 3045 Fruitville Commons Boulevard, Sarasota. Theology on Tap meets on the third Thursday of each month. The featured speaker for July 18 is Father Alex Pince, Diocesan Vocations Director, and the topic will be “The Interconnectedness Between Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Precious Blood of Jesus.” Theology on Tap is presented by the Diocesan Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry. For more information, contact Andres Prias at prias@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-484-9543.

New bus purchased for Bradenton school

A new school bus, for use at St. Joseph Catholic School in Bradenton, arrived July 7, 2024, just in time for the new school year. The bus was purchased thanks to the generous support of the Diocese of Venice, the James M. Doss Foundation, the Knights of Columbus, the Stephen and Jennifer Ierulli Family, and donors who supported the Community Foundation of Sarasota and The Patterson Foundation 2024 Giving Challenge. The 2025 Bluebird 71-passenger school bus will meet the many transportation needs of St. Joseph Catholic School. Bus driver, Stephanie Cannon-Waiters, was present for the delivery to review the safety features of the bus.

News Briefs for the week of June 28, 2024

Posted on June 27, 2024June 27, 2024 by Bob Reddy

John XXIII Movement retreat reinforces faith

Members of the John XXIII Movement took part in a follow-up retreat on June 21, 2024, at St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish in Port Charlotte. More than 60 took part in the retreat which served to reinforce lessons previously learned when they joined the Movement. The group is made up of faithful who had been absent from the Church and marginalized from society before being welcomed back by friends and family and have completed the initial welcoming retreat. The John XXIII Movement is a private international association of laity, born to be a movement of evangelization/conversion and to work, helping the faithful return to full and active participation in the Catholic Church.

Incoming Verot student gets head start on high school

Diving into summer learning, incoming freshmen at Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers are taking part in the LEAP (Learning Enrichment Academic Program) course. This unique summer initiative is designed to boost skills in reading, writing, studying, and math, setting our students up for success from day one. The first session took place the week of June 17, 2024, and another session will take place in July.

Parish completes bible study series

St. William Parish in Naples has completed a four-part bible study series with a focus on Ephesians. The study was led by Scripture scholars Jeff Cavins and Thomas Smith, focusing on the “adventure of discovering our Spiritual Inheritance in Jesus Christ.” This is the latest in a series of programs offered at the Parish to encourage the faithful to grow in their faith. For more information about other upcoming programs, please visit www.saintwilliam.org/adult-faith.

Totus Tuus program reaches half-way point

The Diocese of Venice Totus Tuus summer program has reached its halfway point, inspiring young people to long for holiness, develop a deep desire for conversion and personally renew their faith with a stronger prayer life. The week-long program is visiting different Parishes each week and offering day camp for students entering grades 1 – 6, as well as evening camp for middle school and high school students entering grades 7 – 12. Two missionary teams are going to different Parishes each week. In the first four weeks, the program has taken place at seven Parishes, with the most recent at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice, and St. Katharine Drexel in Cape Coral the week of June 24. Five more Parishes will host the program through the end of July including the following: Our Lady Queen of Heaven, LaBelle (July 7-12); Our Lady of Light, Fort Myers, and St. Cecilia, Fort Myers (July 14-19); Our Lady of the Angels, Lakewood Ranch, and St. Peter the Apostle, Naples (July 21-26). To register, please contact the hosting Parish directly. Parish contact information can be found at https://dioceseofvenice.org/find-a-parish/.

Theology on Tap returns at new location

After a one-month hiatus, Theology on Tap has returned with a new location (Big Top Brewing Brewery & Restaurant, 3045 Fruitville Commons Boulevard, Sarasota). About 60 people gathered for the June 20, 2024. The featured speaker was Mother Maria Therese Nikopoia Klobe, Servant of the Lord and the Virgin of Matará, and Director of Religious Education at St. Michael Parish in Wauchula, who spoke about making wise choice in all aspects of life. Theology on Tap meets at 7 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month. The featured speaker for July 18 is Father Alex Pince, Diocesan Vocations Director, and the topic will be “The Interconnectedness Between Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Precious Blood of Jesus.” Theology on Tap is presented by the Diocesan Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry. For more information, contact Andres Prias at prias@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-484-9543.

Fourth of July Parade in Ave Maria

The 8th Annual “God Bless America” Independence Day Bike and Golf Cart Parade presented by Ave Maria Parish, 5088 Annunciation Circle, Ave Maria, will take place at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, July 4. The celebration will begin in the Piazza in front of the church and will include patriotic songs, a reflection from a veteran, prayers and then the parade that will include bikes, trikes, golf carts, strollers and more. The event is sponsored by the Knights of Columbus of Ave Maria Parish. For further information call 239-348-4725.

Sidewalk counselors in Fort Myers and Naples needed

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

Progress seen in school construction project

Posted on June 21, 2024June 21, 2024 by Bob Reddy

The long-awaited construction of a new Administration Building at St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School in Naples is making remarkable progress.

In just a few short months of work, the foundation was excavated and built, while the first walls have already been raised.

This new 1,971-square-foot building will free up much-needed classroom space, house a clinic, conference room, administrative offices and essential services, and most importantly, provide a secure single point of entry. The existing administrative offices have been operating out of a second-floor classroom since Hurricane Irma caused significant damage to the school in 2017.

Founded in 1981, St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School has been experiencing rapid growth to the current enrollment of 305 students, while at the same time upgrading existing facilities and adding others along the way. The larger expansion project began with the addition of two permanent portable classrooms as well as the creation of an “Arts Center.”

“This is our time,” stated Principal Maria Niebuhr. “Our moment to advance, to continue to expand and improve while staying true to our core values.”

This project is a reality thanks to the incredible generosity of parents, area Parishes and parishioners, donors, and sponsors, explained Gina Groch, Seton Communications Director.

For more information about St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School, call 239-455-2262 or to support the campus expansion program, please give to the Seton Forward Fund at https://saintelizabethseton.com/giving/, or, checks may be made to: St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School, Seton Forward Fund, 2730 53rd Terrace SW, Naples, FL 34116.

News Briefs for the week of June 21, 2024

Posted on June 21, 2024June 21, 2024 by Bob Reddy

Appointments

After consultation with the Priest Personnel Board, Bishop Frank J. Dewane announces the following appointments:

Father Thomas Gregory Doughtery, as Parochial Vicar of St. John XXIII Parish, Fort Myers, effective June 10, 2024.

Father Mark Heuberger, retired as Pastor of Ss. Peter and Paul the Apostles Parish, Bradenton, effective June 30, 2024, and thus, is relieved of his duties as Pastor of Ss. Peter and Paul the Apostles Parish.

Father Gordon Zanetti, as Pastor of Ss. Peter and Paul the Apostles Parish, Bradenton, effective July 1, 2024, and thus, is relieved of his duties as Pastor of St. Thomas More Parish, Sarasota.

Father Nicholas Thompson, as Administrator of St. Thomas More Parish, Sarasota, effective July 1, 2024, and thus, is relieved of his duties as Parochial Vicar of St. John the Evangelist Parish, Naples.

Father William Adams, retired as Pastor of Ascension Parish, Fort Myers Beach, effective July 1, 2024, and thus, is relieved of his duties as Pastor of Ascension Parish.

Verot cheer team excels at Dance Camp

The Bishop Verot Catholic High School cheer team took part in the Universal Dance Association Dance Camp in Coral Gables from June 10-12, 2024. The varsity team was honored to be recognized with the Camp Leadership award, which is voted on by all the other teams at camp. Here are some other notable achievements: Home Routine: Junior Varsity 1st place, Varsity, 2nd Place; Varsity Performance Routine: Superior Rating, Choreography Award; Junior Varsity Performance Routine: Superior Rating; and Drill Downs: 3rd place, Hailey Fischer. The following competitors were recognized as All American Dancers: Junior Varsity: Mckenna Biehl and Amanda Dente; Varsity: Caylee Boeder, Celia DeMartino, Nora Drake, Camilla Motley, Hailey Fischer, Bailey Joslin, Kate Wilson and Isa Scala. Congratulations everyone!

Diocesan Totus Tuus program continues

The Diocese of Venice Totus Tuus summer program continues, inspiring young people to long for holiness, develop a deep desire for conversion and personally renew their faith with a stronger prayer life. The week-long program is divided into two sessions, with the day camp for students entering grades 1 – 6, and the evening camp for middle school and high school students entering grades 7 – 12. Led by two missionary teams, the program has the Parish staff and volunteers augmenting the team, together they make the week one to remember. In the first three weeks, the program has taken place at five Parishes, with the most recent at St. Finbarr Parish in Naples and St. Paul Parish in Arcadia. Seven more Parishes will host the program through the end of July including the following: Epiphany Cathedral, Venice, and St. Katharine Drexel, Cape Coral (June 23-28); Our Lady Queen of Heaven, LaBelle (July 7-12); Our Lady of Light, Fort Myers, and St. Cecilia, Fort Myers (July 14-19); Our Lady of the Angels, Lakewood Ranch, and St. Peter the Apostle, Naples (July 21-26). To register, please contact the hosting Parish directly. Parish contact information can be found at https://dioceseofvenice.org/find-a-parish/.

Natural Family Planning introductory sessions available online

St Gianna’s Center will be offering introductory, virtual sessions (via Zoom) in The Creighton Model FertilityCare™ System (CrMS). The Creighton Model is a natural family planning method, based on common biological markers. These markers help women and couples understand the woman’s fertility and can help a couple naturally avoid or achieve pregnancy. Upcoming Sessions include June 27, 2024, as well as July 18, and August 29. The two-hour sessions each begin at 6:30 p.m. If you are interested in attending a virtual session, use the QR code on the flier to register, or call St. Gianna’s Center at 813-421-4625. For more information, visit https://www.stgiannacenter.com/events/, or contact Jim Gontis, gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

Fourth of July Parade in Ave Maria

The 8th Annual “God Bless America” Independence Day Bike and Golf Cart Parade presented by Ave Maria Parish, 5088 Annunciation Circle, Ave Maria, will take place at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, July 4. The celebration will begin in the Piazza in front of the church and will include patriotic songs, a reflection from a veteran, prayers and then the parade that will include bikes, trikes, golf carts, strollers and more. The event is sponsored by the Knights of Columbus Ave Maria Assembly 3862. For further information call 239- 348-4725.

Donations of baby supplies needed

Community Pregnancy Centers Inc. is seeking donations of diapers and clothing to support the children of the women that are served each day. Items sought include new or gently used clothes (size 12 months to 3T); baby wipes; diapers (size 4-6); baby shampoo/lotion; new clothes for babies (0-3 months); pacifiers; pull ups/training diapers. Community Pregnancy Clinics has offices in Naples, Fort Myers and Sarasota. Please call 239-326-0453 or visit https://communitypregnancyclinic.com/ for locations.

News Briefs for the week of June 14, 2024

Posted on June 13, 2024 by Bob Reddy

Bishop confirms more inmates

Bishop Frank J. Dewane conferred the Sacrament of Confirmation upon several inmates at Avon Park Correctional Institute on June 3, 2024, and then again at DeSoto Correction Institute In Arcadia on June 4. When celebrating the Mass for the incarcerated, Bishop Dewane emphasized that he is bringing the forgiveness, mercy, compassion, peace, love and joy of the Lord to others. Each year, the Bishop celebrates Mass for inmates at different facilities throughout the 10-county Diocese, and has conferred the Sacraments of Confirmation, First Communion and Baptism for dozens of inmates since 2006. The Diocesan Prison Ministry provides a variety of services, including Bible study, religious education and assistance with receiving the Sacraments. Within its boundaries, the Diocese has five state prisons, 10 county jails and one civil commitment program. There are approximately 15,000 incarcerated within the Diocese; meaning the need for priests and volunteers is great. If you are interested in learning more about the Diocesan Prison Ministry, please contact Bob Hiniker at hinbob5@hotmail.com or Joe Mallof at mallofjt@comcast.net.

Mooney hosts first local Special Olympics Camp

Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School hosted the Inaugural Sarasota Camp Shriver in partnership with Special Olympics the week of June 10-14, 2024. The event kicked off June 10 with a celebratory ribbon cutting with Special Olympics President and CEO Sherry Wheelock. Also present was Lucy Nicandri, Executive Director for Suncoast Charities for Children. Each day, the Special Olympics campers participated in various sports and activities, such as lacrosse, football, baseball, softball, volleyball (beach and indoor), cheerleading and more. Mooney buddies, seen at right, paired up with the campers for the week, while Mooney coaches organized the different activities. When not having fun playing sports, there were plenty of other activities, including a dance party and other fun games.

Theology on Tap at new location

Theology on Tap, a young adult outreach of the Diocese of Venice, is returning June 20, 2024, after a brief hiatus at a new location, Big Top Brewing Restaurant & Brewery, 975 Cattleman Road, Sarasota. Please come to this event, which starts at 7 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month. Join other young adult Catholics for food and refreshments, presentations, and discussions about the Catholic Faith. The next speaker is Mother Maria Therese Nikopoia Klobe, SSVM, Director of Religious Education at St. Michael Parish in Wauchula. Sister Nikopoia will be speaking about “Wise Choices.” For any questions, please email Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

Vote No on 4! Spread the word.

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

Ave Maria Youth Conference registration open

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

Sidewalk counselors and prayer warriors in Fort Myers and Naples needed

Neumann students participate in Immokalee Service Week

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

A group of 23 students from St. John Neumann Catholic High School in Naples, accompanied by five chaperones, embarked on a transformative five-day service trip in Immokalee.

The group travelled about 40 minutes from their school to Immokalee, a short physical distance but a long spiritual journey that surprised many in how deeply it impacted them. In Immokalee, the young men and women learned about the Collier County community that is home to many farms and food processing facilities and is also one of the poorest in the country.

Delaying other fun summer plans, such as going to the beach or on vacation, or preparing for the next sports season, from May 28-31, 2024, the Neumann students dedicated themselves to volunteering at various impactful organizations, including Guadalupe Social Services of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., Habitat for Humanity, the Pepper Ranch Preserve, Pathways Early Education Center of Immokalee, and the Guadalupe Center.

The students stayed at the Bethal Retreat House and their evenings were filled with a blend of spirituality and camaraderie as the group attended daily Mass at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, listened to inspirational testimonies, and engaged in prayer and playful activities. It was a journey of service, reflection, and community bonding that left a lasting impact on all involved.

The theme for the week was based on a quote from St. John Bosco – “If one is to do good, he must have a little courage, be ready for sacrifice, deal affably with all and never slight anybody.” Each of the students wore T-shirts with that quote printed on the back.

The annual service trip was organized and led by Sisters Nicole Daley and Juliana Alfonso, Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco, both of whom are on the faculty at St. John Neumann. To start the week, they prayed each student would gain a renewed sense of Christian Service from their experience.

Sister Juliana said the transformation of the students during the week was inspiring as they came to realize the real and lasting impact their hard work was having for their brothers and sisters in Christ.

The enthusiasm of the students to put Catholic Social Teaching into practice was reflected in the effort and care they put into each task they were assigned. When asked about what they were learning, several reflected how they were temporarily able to put aside electronic devices and other distractions to focus on others. This allowed them to grow in their relationship with the Lord.

During the week, the students also heard from people who shared their knowledge about the needs of the community. A visit to the Coalition of Immokalee Workers, a group which fights for the rights of farmworkers locally and nationwide, opened their eyes about the difficult conditions that farmworkers face to support their families.

When helping at Pathways Early Childhood Center the students learned that the lunch the children receive each day is likely the only food they will have access to all day. At Guadalupe Social Services, students helped in the Casa Maria Soup Kitchen and food pantry, two programs which help hundreds of families each month.

St. John Neumann students volunteer thousands of hours each year throughout Collier County. The 2023 graduates completed 10,864 service hours in their four years.

For more information about St. John Neumann Catholic High School, please call 239-455-3044 or visit www.sjnceltics.org.

News Briefs for the week of June 7, 2024

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

Fort Myers Catholic youth reaches national Spelling Bee quarterfinals

David Nicasio, 13, who is an active member of St. Cecilia Parish in Fort Myers, reached the quarterfinals of the 96th Scripps National Spelling Bee from May 28-30, 2024. David tied for 60th place, making it through three rounds before tripping up in the fourth round. Words he spelled correctly were: Braeburn, larceny and pulvillus. David, an altar server, lector, as well as in the middle school and youth groups at St. Cecilia, won a series of local competitions to qualify as one of 245 students from across the nation to reach the national Spelling Bee. Just for making the National Spelling Bee, David will receive a number of gifts and prizes related to learning. As a quarterfinalist he will receive a commemorative pin and a $100 gift card. Well done David!

Penny Wars competition benefits area children

The kindergarten class at St. Catherine Catholic School in Sebring won the fourth annual Penny Wars. The students collected a combined $1,190, allowing St. Catherine to purchase hygiene items, duffle bags, diapers, jackets and sweatshirts for two organizations that help foster children. Dixie Kreulen, student council moderator for St. Catherine, coordinated the Penny Wars from April 15-30. The Student Council, Kiwanis Builders Club and the Rosary Club assisted with loading and organizing the items. The kindergarten class, which won last year, was rewarded for all their hard work in collecting coins by receiving an ice cream party. The first-grade class was treated to cookies since they were only 24 cents behind the kindergarteners. The teacher raising the most money was Elizabeth Kosta who won a $15 gift card to Starbucks.

Summer upgrades start in Naples

The summer vacation at St. John Neumann Catholic High School in Naples means the start of a classroom reconfiguration process to handle the increasing number of students. On May 30, 2024, the demolition work began in two classrooms while additional work in the science labs starts soon. The work will make a new guidance office area, upgrade the media center and allow for better office space for faculty and staff, while freeing up room for more classrooms, and more students!

Foundation benefits Catholic Charities

The Bobby Nichols-Fiddlesticks Charity Foundation awarded $105,000 to Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., to support their anti-human trafficking program, the result of several annual fundraising golf tournaments and galas. Overall, the Foundation presented nearly $1.8 million in grants to six designated charities serving abused and at-risk children in Southwest Florida. Founded by longtime Fiddlesticks resident Bobby Nichols, winner of 14 PGA Tour tournaments, the PGA recognizes the Nichols Cup golf tournament as one of the most successful community sponsored Pro-Am tournaments in the U.S. To date, the Nichols Cup tournaments and auction gala has raised a total of more than $18 million to benefit local children’s charities.

New Transitional Deacon feature of seminarian podcast

Transitional Deacon Pat Long, a Diocese of Venice Seminarian, is featured in the latest “Never Too Late” podcast from Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary. The podcast is hosted by Msgr. Bill Fay, a member of the faculty, and includes a discussion with seminarians who found a vocation to the priesthood later in life. In the 24th episode of the podcast, Deacon Pat speaks about his personal path to Pope St. John XXIII. Hear how the witness of both his parents and priests, who encouraged and guided him, were an influence on his faith. Friends also played a significant role in Deaon Pat’s decision to pay closer attention to God calling him, and his decision to take action and follow God’s call. Discussed is the broader definition of family and what it is like being a new deacon in the Church (he was ordained on April 6, 2024). He also offers a suggested four-part plan for any man engaging his own discernment process. To hear the podcast, please visit : https://www.grexly.com/nevertoolate.

Donations of baby supplies needed

Ave Maria Youth Conference registration open

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

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

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

Vote No on 4! Spread the word.

Preparing for the storm ahead of time

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

As the 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season commences, emergency management officials emphasize that having an emergency preparedness plan will help lessen the stress when inevitably, the 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 need to plan for what specialty items will be needed such as medications.

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, and 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.

To help encourage the people of Florida to buy their emergency supplies now, this year, the Florida Legislature has approved two 2024 Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holidays. The first tax holiday is June 1 to 14, with the second taking place from August 24 to September 6.

During these two periods, certain hurricane supplies will be tax-free. Along with the traditional items in a supply kit – like flashlights, radios, tarps and batteries – the tax holiday also includes a number of items related to the safe evacuation of household pets. For a complete list of eligible items, check your local retail store or visit https://floridarevenue.com/disasterprep. If you have a Disaster Supply Kit that went unused in 2023, inspect it to ensure all items are fresh and the batteries are still good.

Anyone who has 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.

Another key action is to make sure your 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.

Should disaster strike, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., 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.

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/.

Ave Maria Parish school celebrates high school graduation

Posted on May 30, 2024 by Bob Reddy

The Donahue Catholic Academy of Ave Maria Parish celebrated the Baccalaureate Mass and 17th Commencement Exercises for its 32 graduating seniors on May 24, 2024, the largest class in school history.

The opening procession for the Mass included each graduate carrying a white rose which was then placed in a vase before a statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane was the main celebrant. Bishop Dewane praised the graduates for their academic achievement but said his prayers were for their continued spiritual growth as they leave the Ave Maria community to points beyond.

Following Mass, the festivities moved to the nearby school, with the graduation taking place in the gymnasium. In addition to family and friends, students from the middle and high school were present for the presentation of diplomas.

First-year Principal Dr. Marc Snyder, whose daughter Isabela was a graduate, remarked on the honor of leading the school which offers a classical education where students encounter Christ and pursue excellence in all things from academics through sports.

Mary Fairchild was the class Valedictorian while Matthew Scheck was Salutatorian. Father David Vidal, Ave Maria Parish Pastor, offered the opening prayer and closing Benediction. In addition, Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocese of Venice Superintendent of Catholic Education, addressed the graduates, offering encouragement to continue to let Jesus and the Blessed Virgin Mary be the guiding force in their lives.

The Donahue graduates did more than 2,200 service hours and earned an impressive $3.6 million in scholarship offers. In addition, most are going on to attend a Catholic university in the fall.