stream Archives - Diocese of Venice

Lion Cup III Diocesan Robotics Tournament a huge success

Posted on April 25, 2024April 25, 2024 by Bob Reddy

With a blast of confetti canons, the third annual Diocese of Venice Catholic Schools Lion Cup III Robotics Tournament kicked off April 20, 2024, at Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers.

The Lion Cup – a STREAM (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Arts, Math) middle and high school round-robin tournament, included 240 competitors and 30 teams representing many of the 15 Diocesan Catholic schools and was a success.

The competition was fierce, and the intensity built as the day progressed and the participants became laser-focused on being the best.

Emotions ran high as teams raced to program their robots to accomplish various tasks in a specific order in a limited amount of time. “Fun!” “Amazing!” “Awesome!” “Intense!” “Wonderful!” were just some of the emotions the student competitors had at the end of the day.

St. Joes 8 team from St. Joseph Catholic School in Bradenton topped the middle school competition, while the Verot Bots of host Bishop Verot took the top prize in the high school tournament.

Members of the Verot Bots Jocelyn Sweeney, Jaxon Kurio, Tobias Gomez, and Caden Kellum, were overjoyed that their hard work, time and effort paid off with a victory. With big smiles, the students said the entire competition was stressful, however the teamwork and preparation and perseverance paid off.

“This is sweet. We worked so hard,” said Caden Kellum.

Utilizing the First Lego League Masterpiece challenge set, the middle school robots were made from Lego pieces and traversed an obstacle course, attempting to pick up items along the way. Teamwork came into play in design, construction and strategy. Students coded their robots to autonomously complete missions for points.

The high school robots are 10 times larger and are both autonomous and have a remote control as they complete assigned tasks. In the case of the competition, the robots needed to pick up and place discs on a slanted board with slots, and the discs would journey to the bottom for points (different colored discs were worth different points). Bonus points were added for shooting a paper airplane out of the competition zone, as well as for being able to hang the robot from support bars.

The teams participated in a round robin format with each team getting the chance to have their robot compete at least twice. The top teams made the semifinals, and an eventual winner was crowned. In between the intense competition the teams had pizza and sweets.

Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocesan Superintendent of Catholic Education, said the few hours of competition brought out the best from the students and reflected their core Catholic virtues.

“The Lion Cup is a celebration of learning, friendship, and fun,” Father Belmonte said.

Jennifer Falestiny, Diocese Curriculum Specialist, organized the event and was pleased to see so many competitors. “This is so wonderful to see everyone get so involved and excited about STREAM and robotics.”

The Lion Cup honors St. Mark, one of the patron saints of the Diocese of Venice, whose symbol features a winged lion. The competition also pays homage to Leonardo da Vinci, inventor of many of the first robots, one of which resembles a lion.

Da Vinci’s works incorporate three design attributes developed by Vitruvius, a famous Roman architect and engineer: Firmitas (strength), Utilitas (utility) and Venustas (beauty). Special awards were presented to the teams that reflected the attributes of Firmitas, Utilitas, and Venustas. These superlative awards were based on the review of undercover judges.

The day opened with a prayer led by Father Belmonte and then a blasting off of dozens of confetti canons. Many parents, family members, principals and teachers attended the competition, cheering on the various students teams.

The winning teams were:

Middle school

1st – St. Joes 8 – St. Joseph Catholic School, Bradenton

2nd – Tech Tigers 2 – Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School, Venice

3rd – CTRL+ALT+WIN 1 – St. Andrew Catholic School, Cape Coral

High School

1st – Verot Bots – Bishop Verot Catholic High School, Fort Myers

2nd – Tito Bots – St. John Neumann Catholic High School, Naples

3rd – Steel Cats 1 – Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School, Sarasota

Firmitas – Strength – St. Mark – Co-Patron of the Diocese of Venice – positive Catholic strength, culture and character

Middle school – CTRL+ALT+WIN 2 – St. Andrew Catholic School

High school – Neumann 4 – St. John Neumann Catholic High School

Utilitas – Utility – St. Marcina – Patron Saint of Robots – robotic design and function

Middle school – Tech Tigers 2 – Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School

High school – Verot Bots – Bishop Verot Catholic High School

Venustas – Beauty – Our Lady – robotic design, innovation and creativity

Middle school – Falcon 2024 – St. Francis Xavier Catholic School, Fort Myers

High school – Steel Cats 1 – Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School

Congratulations to the winners, and to all who participated in this challenging competition!

News Briefs for the week of April 26, 2024

Posted on April 25, 2024April 25, 2024 by Bob Reddy

Vocations talk inspires young women

Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers hosted a visit on April 16, 2024, from Sister Maria Nikipoia, a perpetually professed Sister of the Servants of the Lord and the Virgin of Matará (SSVM). Sister Nikipoia recently came to Florida after ministering in Guyana for 5 years and currently she ministers at St. Michael Parish in Wauchula. Sister spoke to the students about how to discern God’s will for our lives, specifically our vocation. Students were able to ask questions of Sister Nikipoia regarding religious life and the work of her Religious Order.

Charities fun day includes special visit

The Remake Learning Days Family Fun Day for residents of Casa San Juan Bosco, a farmworker housing community in Arcadia run by Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., took place April 20, 2024. There were games, food and information booths. There was also the surprise arrival of a Florida Department of Forestry helicopter landing in the soccer field. The two pilots answered many questions and allowed the children to climb up and into the helicopter.

New playground equipment wows students

If the pre-school and kindergarten students at St. Catherine Catholic School in Sebring are any judge, the newly installed playground equipment is a hit. The playground for pre-school and kindergarten students received an upgrade in early April 2024 with woodchips serving as a soft surface and interactive equipment with a combination slide and educational portal. The equipment was made possible thanks to the PTO (Parent Teacher Organization), as well as individual donors.

Vocation Discernment Retreat May 11 in Cape Coral

A Vocations Discernment Retreat is taking place beginning at 10:30 a.m., May 11, 2024, at St. Katherine Drexel Parish, 1922 SW 20th Avenue, Cape Coral. If you are of high school or college age, or a young adult, and wish to discover more about different vocations, plan to attend this one-day Retreat. The day will include breakfast, lunch and dinner, the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass and presentations regarding the different Vocations. Priests, as well as religious men and women will be present throughout the day. This retreat is co-sponsored by the Diocese of Venice Vocations Office and St. Katharine Drexel Parish. The cost for the day is $25. To register, please following the link at https://www.venicevocations.org/events, or for additional information, please contact aileen@drexelcc.org or rose@drexelcc.org.

Theology on Tap continues

Fun, faith and fellowship were part of the monthly Theology on Tap outreach to young adults on April 18, 2024, at the Mandeville Beer Garden in Sarasota. The featured speaker in April was Father Rafal Ligenza, Pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Bradenton. The relaxed atmosphere takes place in the garden for food and refreshments, presentations, and discussions about the Catholic Faith. Theology on Tap takes place at 7 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month. The next gathering will be May 16. For more information, please contact Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

Calling all Pro-Life Advocates!

If you’d like to volunteer to help educate people on the truth about the pro-abortion amendment on the November ballot, plan to attend a training opportunity within the Diocese of Venice in May (one of two). The first training is Monday, May 13, 2024, from 11:45 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Leadership Institute, 2163 Main Street (downtown), Sarasota. The second session is also from 11:45 a.m., Wednesday, May 15, at St. John XXIII Parish Center, 13060 Palomino Lane, Fort Myers. Lunch will be included at both sessions. Register online at www.LeadershipInstitute.org/Florida for either session by May 8. If you have questions, please contact Jeanne Berdeaux at 941-374-1068 or Berdeaux@dioceseofvenice.org.

Eucharistic Adoration for Life

You are invited to spend time with Our Lord in Eucharistic Adoration anytime between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays (abortion days at Planned Parenthood) at Mary’s House (next to Community Pregnancy Clinic, 1419 7th Street, Sarasota) to pray for an end to abortion. Questions? Contact Ginger at ggosling2@aol.com or 941-224-0662.

Marian Eucharistic Conference in May

All are invited to the 13th Annual Ave Maria University Marian Eucharistic Conference May 10-12, 2024, “My Soul Proclaims the Greatness of Our Lord.” Featured speakers will include Fox News and EWTN’s Raymond Arroyo, Father Robert Sirico co-founder of the Acton Institute, “Women of Grace” Founder Johnnette B. Williams, President and Co-Founder of “Foundation of Prayer for Priests” Kathleen Beckman. In addition to these great talks special Spanish sessions will also be offered including talks by Sister Maria Jose of Servants of the Pierced Heart of Jesus, Father Rafael Capo, Director of the US Bishops’ Regional Office in Miami, and Father David Vidal, Pastor of Ave Maria Parish. Music ministry will be provided by Jon Nevin. The cost is $190 per person, which includes lodging, meals, and conference fee for the weekend. For more information about our speakers or to register for this event visit www.aveconferences.com, call 239-348-4725, or email aveconferences@gmail.com.

News Briefs for the week of April 19, 2024

Posted on April 18, 2024April 18, 2024 by Bob Reddy

Bishop celebrates Mass for Cathedral students

Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass for the students at Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School in Venice on April 12, 2024. The Gospel reading for the day was from John and describes the miracle of the feeding of the 5,000. In this miracle, Jesus not only provides the nourishment of food, but more importantly spiritual nourishment. “Be mindful when you come here to the Church, to receive the strength from Jesus Christ, like he gave to all of those people on the side of the mountain. Each Sunday, He makes it possible to receive our strength to live our spiritual life.” Following the Mass, the Bishop blessed the pre-kindergarten students in the narthex of the Cathedral.

Three from one Catholic high school accepted into service academies

St. John Neumann Catholic High School in Naples has announced that three of its Class of 2024 have been accepted into military academies. Mason Ceccarelli will be attending the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland; Sloane Janopoulos will be attending the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado; and Sophia McCartney will be attending the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York. This remarkable achievement reflects the outstanding academic formation of the students at Neumann. The appointments are also a testament to each student’s exceptional leadership qualities, academic prowess, and unwavering patriotism.

Biomedical students show off senior projects

Senior biomedical students at Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers had the opportunity to put their year-long research projects on display April 11, 2024, to showcase their innovations that could, one day, shape the future of medicine. Each student created a display/poster which was a window into their hard work, critical thinking, and dedication to pushing the boundaries of biomedical science. Each of these seniors will be graduating as biomedical honors students and will be distinguished at their upcoming graduation with a stole. From groundbreaking treatments to revolutionary healthcare solutions, these bright minds have proven that the spirit of discovery is thriving at Bishop Verot.

Sarasota students excel at Model UN conference

Three Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School students from Sarasota dominated the Ave Maria University Model UN Conference on April 13, 2024, in Ave Maria. There were 44 delegates who participated in the event which is an educational simulation where students can learn about diplomacy, international relations and the UN General Assembly and its other multilateral bodies. Cecelia Cosgrove was named best delegate, while Karel Dib took second place, Tyler Ruben took third. The students were judged by Naples Council of World Affairs.

Parable Project coming to Naples

St. Agnes Parish in Naples is welcoming the Magic Carpet Theatre for “The Parable Project,” a presentation of the stories Jesus told using drama, humor and audience participation. The event is 7 p.m., April 25, 2024, in the Parish Hall, 7775 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. There are no reservations needed and no charge for this event; donations will be accepted to offset the cost to the Parish. For questions, contact Ivy O’Malley at 239-307-4264 or ivy@stagnesnaples.org.

Calling all Pro-Life Advocates!

Eucharistic Adoration for Life

News Briefs for the week of April 12, 2024

Posted on April 18, 2024April 18, 2024 by Bob Reddy

Naples students pack food for needy

Naples students from St. John Neumann Catholic High School, St. Ann Catholic School and St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School took part in a Collier County Food Bowl Competition supporting Meals of Hope, April 6, 2024. More than 350 students from schools across Collier County took part in the packing event. In all, more than 142,000 meals were packed in a single afternoon.

Eclipse helps make science fun

Students across the Diocese of Venice returned to the classroom from Spring Break on April 8, 2024, the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord. An added bonus was the arrival of an eclipse of the sun by the moon in the early afternoon. Students, donning protective eyewear, learned about how the sun and moon travel through the solar system and occasionally cross paths. While Southwest Florida only experienced about 60% blockage of the sun, the students were still impressed and in awe of the universe that was created by God.

Few spots remain for pilgrimage with Bishop to National Eucharistic Congress

Bishop Frank J. Dewane invites the Faithful of the Diocese of Venice to join him on a Pilgrimage to the 10th National Eucharistic Congress. This historic 5-day gathering will take place in Indianapolis July 17-21, 2024. The National Eucharistic Congress represents the culmination of the Church’s three-year effort to put an emphasis on the Real Presence of Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, in the Holy Eucharist. This is a pivotal moment in the Church, and a unique opportunity for participants to draw into a deeper, more intimate relationship with Our Lord. The U.S. Bishops have announced that participants in the National Revival will be afforded the opportunity to obtain a plenary indulgence. The cost of the Diocese of Venice pilgrimage package is $1,049. With the package, pilgrims receive the National Eucharistic Congress 5-day pass, which provides access to all speakers and events, as well as four nights’ accommodations in a 4-star hotel within walking distance of the convention center. Please note, the pilgrimage package does not include transportation or meals. Only a few packages remain! Don’t miss this opportunity! Deadline to reserve is April 17. Register at https://ctscentral.rezmagic.com/Booking/Reservation/Start?tripID=5394&CategoryId=52540. For further information, contact Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship

“We need to participate for the common good. Sometimes we hear: a good Catholic is not interested in politics. This is not true: good Catholics immerse themselves in politics by offering the best of themselves so that the leader can govern” – Pope Francis. In this election year, please remember that shaping the moral character of society is a requirement of our faith, and a basic part of the mission we have received from Jesus Christ. Guidance for Catholics in the exercise of their rights and duties as participants in our democracy is available from the USCCB, at faithfulcitizenship.org. Visit the website to deepen your understanding of Catholic Social Teaching, and the teachings of the Church that relate to the social, economic, and political issues of our time.

Theology on Tap Sarasota April 18

Theology on Tap takes place on the third Thursday of each month at 7:00 p.m. at the Mandeville Beer Garden in Sarasota, 428 N. Lemon Ave, Sarasota. Join us outside in the garden for food and refreshments, presentations, and discussions about the Catholic Faith. The next scheduled date is April 18, 2024. The speaker will be Father Rafal Ligenza, Pastor of Saint Joseph Parish in Bradenton. Father Ligenza will speak on “Divine Mercy, Message and Devotion.” For any questions, please contact Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseofvenice.org

50th Catholic Schools Week– Jan. 28 – Feb. 3 – Diocesan Catholic schools continue to thrive

Posted on January 25, 2024 by Bob Reddy

Each day is a celebration of educating the mind, body and spirit at Catholic Schools throughout the Diocese of Venice.

A more public celebration will occur the week of Jan. 28 to Feb. 3, 2024, when Diocesan schools will participate in a series of exciting activities as part of the 50th annual National Catholic Schools Week.

Sponsored by the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA), the week provides an annual opportunity to share the good news about Catholic Schools. The theme, “Catholic Schools: United in Faith and Community.” focuses on the important spiritual, academic, and societal contributions provided by a Catholic education firmly rooted in the Truth of the Gospel.

Within the 15 Diocese of Venice Catholic schools, these are exciting times. Just in the past year, a rapid increase in enrollment has continued; an already cutting-edge curriculum has expanded; and many schools are working on projects to expand and upgrade their campus facilities.

Schools typically observe the annual celebration week with Masses, open houses and other activities for students, families, parishioners, and community members. On the weekend starting Catholic Schools Week, look for students to speak at Parish Masses to explain the benefits of supporting their education.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane said Diocesan Catholic Schools not only educate the mind but also the soul, teaching the students to have a concern for their brothers and sisters, whether they live in the same country, down the street, or are in their classroom, through prayer, and the teaching of values, morals, and virtues.

“Through this broader approach, the student begins to learn, to reach out, beyond themselves, seeing for themselves that we are all made in the image and likeness of God,” Bishop Dewane said.

Catholic Schools Week 2024 promises to be bigger and better than ever, starting with the large numbers of students attending Diocesan Catholic schools, which is topping 6,200. This a 30 percent growth rate in the high schools in four years and 40 percent increase in the grade schools. As enrollment for the 2024-2025 Academic Year ramps up, space is limited.

St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School is in the process of building a science center/gymnasium which is expected to add six classrooms and open by the start of the 2024-2025 Academic Year. Several schools also received temporary portable classrooms to accommodate added enrollment. These are temporary solutions as long-term capital campaigns are being planned for projects to upgrade existing facilities, and add classrooms to accommodate current and projected growth.

“This is a good problem to have,” said Jesuit Father John Belmonte, Diocesan Superintendent of Catholic Education. “We have been blessed in that people are choosing Diocesan Catholic schools. Parents are finding a rigorous academic program, but more importantly, the curriculum is about training the will of each student and teaching them to make the right decisions so that they can do the good that is needed by not only their families and themselves but by society.”

Each school offers a comprehensive STREAM (science, technology, religion, engineering, art, and math) learning model which is combined with the Diocesan curriculum called, “The Gifts of Christ: Truth, Beauty, Goodness, Affability, Fortitude, Humility, and Prudence,” creating students of good moral character equipped to succeed in the world of today. This program has a strong robotics component as well.

“We prepare our students for today and for the future,” Bishop Dewane said. “We give the students what they need for success in this challenging world. Through this initiative, we are helping students to discover who they are as men and women of faith, as they learn these virtues that Christ calls us to, time after time in the Gospel.”

For example, there is an annual Diocesan robotics competition, dubbed the Lion Cup. This event brings together teams for each of the schools. The 2023 edition was a highlight for both students and teachers. Nearly 40 teams, and more than 220 students gathered for the middle and high school robotics tournament. The competition was fierce, and the intensity built as the day progressed and the participants became laser-focused on being the best in completing complicated tasks with their machines. Robotics teams are already gearing up for the 2024 Lion Cup which will be in April. In the meantime, the different robotics teams compete in public regional competitions.

On the spiritual side of the education, Father Belmonte has developed an annual devotional project, which is themed to focus students on a particular prayer or aspect of the faith, all in a continued effort to help them grow closer to Jesus Christ. The 2023-2024 project is themed, “Cause of Our Joy: Marian Devotional Project.” The focus of the project is teaching the students about Our Lady, and the importance of praying the Most Holy Rosary. This project builds upon the theme from the previous year, “The Most Holy Eucharist: The Riches of His Glorious Inheritance,” which was done in support of the ongoing National Eucharistic Revival. The Revival is a U.S. Bishops outreach to help increase devotion to the Most Holy Eucharist through prayer and Eucharistic Adoration.

On Dec. 8, 2023, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School football team from Sarasota, earned the Florida High School Athletic Association Class 1S state championship. This was 51 years to the day (Dec. 8, 1972) of the last state title by a Mooney football team. A victory rally was held on Dec. 19 at Mooney.

In addition, the Donahue Academy of Ave Maria Catholic School in Ave Maria won the 6-man football championship. Also, the Mooney girls’ basketball team, and the St. John Neumann Catholic High School baseball team in Naples, both reached the state Final Four in their respective divisions. Consistently, individual and team Diocesan athletes excel in swimming, cross country, track and field and more. Many go on to earn athletic scholarships and continue playing sports at the collegiate level.

While sports achievements are impressive, many Diocesan students earn honors for their academic and artistic gifts as well.

One Bishop Verot Catholic High School student in Fort Myers recently earned a perfect score on the ACT college placement exam. Students in all grades score at the advanced level on national tests while being grounded in the knowledge of the Catholic Faith. Impressively, the 2023 graduating high schoolers garnered more than $43.2 million in scholarship offers. Those numbers include students earning nationally competitive academic honors, such as the National Merit Scholarship. An astounding 99 percent of the graduates are heading off to higher education at some of the top colleges and universities in the land.

For the artists, students across the Diocese earn honors in both local, regional, and national competitions. In fact, for the past six years, at least one Diocesan student has been recognized for their artwork in the annual Missionary Childhood Association Christmas Art Contest. In the past year, several students have been recognized by county governments for their artistic talents, with artwork appearing in numerous environmentally-themed calendars.

The 15 Diocesan Catholic schools are an investment in the future as they serve as the heart of the Diocese, building the Catholic leadership of tomorrow. Schools are in Bradenton, Sarasota, Venice, Port Charlotte, Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Naples, Ave Maria and Sebring.

Scholarships are available to help ease some of the financial burden, and families should not assume that they wouldn’t qualify. In addition to school, Parish and Diocesan support, state scholarships such as Step Up For Students are also available.

Catholic Schools Week 2024 will showcase many of these aspects of Catholic education within the Diocese of Venice. Please check with the nearest Diocesan Catholic school for a list of public activities by visiting https://dioceseofvenice.org/catholicschools.

News briefs for the week of January 5, 2024

Posted on January 4, 2024January 4, 2024 by Bob Reddy

High school club honors veterans

The Bishop Verot Catholic High School club Vikings for Heroes spent time helping the “Wreaths Across America” program on Dec. 14, 2023. This program took place at cemeteries across the entire nation, and the purpose was to “Remember the fallen. Honor those who serve. Teach the next generation the value of freedom.” Students spent the day decorating headstones at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens in preparation of the Christmas holiday. Vikings for Heroes is led by Pete Orsita, a military veteran himself who teaches science. Orsita’s passion to help other veterans is clear in how he has helped with outreach efforts such as “Wreaths Across America,” the Veteran’s Day assembly, and support for Honor Flights, which enables veterans to visit the memorials in Washington, D.C.

Boat building challenges robotics students

Congratulations to the ingenious 6th, 7th, and 8th grade robotics students at St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Corel. On Dec. 21, 2023, the students embarked on an aluminum boat-building challenge, showcasing problem-solving skills, collaboration and creativity that left us in awe! Special kudos went to 7th graders, Ryder and Matias, whose boat sailed to victory, holding an impressive load of 50 pennies, an example of true innovation at work. The project was a testament to teamwork, critical thinking, and the sheer joy of hands-on learning. All 15 Diocese of Venice Catholic schools offer a comprehensive STREAM (science, technology, religion, engineering, art and math) learning model which is combined with the Diocesan curriculum called, “The Gifts of Christ: Truth, Beauty, Goodness, Affability, Fortitude, Humility, and Prudence,” creating students equipped to succeed in the world of today.

Catholic Charities Annual Christmas Appeal needs your support!

The 22nd Annual Catholic Charities Christmas Appeal needs your support! The Christmas Appeal continues through the end of January 2024 and is Catholic Charities’ largest annual fundraiser, critical to operating this critical 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 visit https://catholiccharitiesdov.org/donate, or mail a contribution to Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34285.

Catholic Street Evangelization training in Naples

Interested in learning about Catholic Street Evangelization? Register now for the January 27 Saint Paul Street Evangelization (SPSE) training at St. John the Evangelist Parish, 625 111th Ave N, Naples. Registration deadline is January 23. SPSE is supported and encouraged by Bishop Frank J. Dewane and is a response to the mandate of Jesus Christ to “preach the Gospel to all nations…” taking the Catholic Faith to the public square. The organization seeks to train others to witness effectively to the truth, beauty, and goodness of Jesus and His Church in a non-confrontational way. All Catholics who are 18 years of age and older are cordially invited to register. The daily Mass is at 8 a.m., and the workshops are from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. A “Live Lab” will follow. The cost is $15 per person and includes continental breakfast and lunch. Please visit https://dioceseofvenice.regfox.com/2024-st-paul-street-evangelization to register. For other questions, please contact Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

Volunteers Needed for Prison Outreach

Join the team of Diocesan volunteers who enter county jails and state prisons within the 10-county Diocese of Venice to do pastoral outreach, distribute the Eucharist and facilitate programs. Priests, Deacons, and lay volunteers are encouraged to assist in this ministry. Volunteers will first participate in an orientation program before entering the facility and will “shadow” experienced volunteers until they feel comfortable. Times and days vary by facility. Please contact Joe Mallof at 224-217-7139 or Bob Hiniker 863-558-0407 to learn where you can fit into this joyful opportunity.

Sarasota student earns top Christmas art honor

Posted on December 15, 2023December 15, 2023 by Bob Reddy

Karys Kuchinsky wants to be an artist when she grows up. If the people at the Missionary Childhood Association (MCA) Christmas Artwork Contest are any judge, Karys is well on her way to achieving this dream.

Karys is a sixth-grader at St. Martha Catholic School in Sarasota and was one of 19 artists to be recognized for her work in the MCA Christmas Artwork Contest. Her artwork, and that of the other winners, is on display through the Advent and Christmas Seasons at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. All winners are featured as MCA eGreetings, which launched on the First Sunday of Advent (Dec. 3, 2023) at https://egreetings.missio.org/.

Karys’ winning artwork of the Blessed Virgin Mary was of her own interpretation from her creative mind. “It was quite the honor to be selected and represent our community,” she said.

She is a passionate artist, following in the footsteps of an older sister who went to the Ringling School of Art and Design. Karys travelled to Washington for an awards ceremony for the MCA Christmas Artwork honorees on Dec. 1 at the Basilica.

The award ceremony, followed by a Mass and a luncheon at Catholic University of America, was a celebration of artistic talent and a testament to the missionary spirit fostered by MCA. The awards were presented by accomplished American artist Suzanne Ferrell Nicholson and Msgr. Kieran E. Harrington, national director of The Pontifical Mission Societies, which encompass the Society for the Propagation of the Faith, as well as the Missionary Childhood Association.

“The trip was filled with excitement and intrigue from the start,” Karys said. “Meeting the other winners, Msgr. Harrington and the MCA staff was rewarding. The art exhibit was fabulous to see with all the other contestants’ work on display. Each painting delivered a strong message and expression clearly symbolizing and supporting the missionary vision.”

Mirna Kuchinsky, Karys’ mother, said that her daughter has blossomed as a talented artist in the past year or so. “I know I am her mother, but she is really good. We went to Washington so that she could be inspired, knowing that she was chosen to be honored among so many entries.”

This is not the first time a St. Martha Catholic School student has been honored through the MCA Christmas Artwork Contest. In fact, this is the third year in a row a St. Martha student has been a finalist in the MCA contest.

Throughout the years, Mary Jo Salamone, Karys’ art teacher, takes time to ensure all of her students take part in the different art competitions both nationally and locally, never losing sight that each award is a gift from God which should be shared with others.

Hundreds of submissions were received, both through the mail and online, for the annual MCA competition which dates to 1933. Back then, MCA used children’s artwork on Christmas seals. Christmas cards were introduced in 2005, and in 2007 eGreetings were launched with these drawings. These artworks, depicting scenes of the Christmas story, are available in a digital e-greeting format, allowing anyone to spread the joy of the Christmas Season while supporting the missions. If you would like to send an e-greeting, please visit https://egreetings.missio.org/.

The MCA was founded in France in 1843 to encourage all children to be aware of the needs of children living in mission Dioceses throughout the world and support them both spiritually and sacrificially. Under its banner “children helping children,” monies raised through schools are directed towards self-help programs involving the building of schools, the provision of health and nutrition programs and medications, school fees, as well as teaching and learning resources.

Father Joseph Gates is the Director of the Diocese Office of Propagation of the Faith (Mission Office), which coordinates activities regarding foreign, domestic, and Diocesan mission work. For more information, please call 941-776-9097 or email missionoffice@dioceseofvenice.org.

News Briefs for the week of December 15, 2023

Posted on December 15, 2023December 15, 2023 by Bob Reddy

Longtime immigration specialist retires from Catholic Charities

The staff of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., held their annual holiday party in Lee County at Resurrection of Our Lord Parish in Fort Myers on Dec. 8, 2023. During the celebration, time was taken to provide special recognition of Maria Rodriguez, the lead immigration specialist in Lee County. Rodriguez is retiring from Catholic Charities after 31 years of service. She started as an assistant with the organization and worked her way up to be a valued leader who helped assist families and individuals navigate their way through the immigration process. Rodriguez was presented with an award from Eddie Gloria, CEO of Catholic Charities, and Alex Olivares, Regional Director covering Lee, Hendry and Glades counties. Thank you, Maria, for your years of service and have a blessed and happy retirement.

Student takes cameras to the zoo

Photography class students at Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers took a field trip to the Naples Zoo on Dec. 7, 2023. The goal of the trip was for the students to capture images of the various wildlife, as well as to allow them to practice the fundamentals of photography they have been learning all semester long, and really put their skills to work! The fun trip helped the students to show off their talents and develop their photography skills.

Bishop to speak at Theology on Tap Dec. 21

Each third Thursday of the month, young adults gather for faith, fellowship and fun at the Mandeville Beer Garden in Sarasota. Theology on Tap is presented by the Diocesan Office of Evangelization, and the Dec. 21, 2023, guest speaker will be Bishop Frank J. Dewane. The Mandeville Beer Garden is located at 428 N. Lemon, Ave., and the gathering begins at 7 p.m. For any questions, please email Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

Televised Mass for the Homebound on Christmas Day

The televised Christmas Day Mass for the Homebound with Celebrant Bishop Frank J. Dewane will air for a full hour on Christmas Day. For viewers in the northern portions of the Diocese (DeSoto, Hardee, Highlands, Manatee, and Sarasota counties), the Mass will air at 8 a.m. on the CW Network. In the southern portions of the Diocese (Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry, Lee counties), the Mass will air at 8 a.m. on WFTX-TV (FOX-4). Please check your cable provider for channel listings. The Mass will also be available on the Diocesan website at www.dioceseofvenice.org/tvmass. Leaflet missals are available upon request by calling Gail Ardy at 941-486-4714 or by writing: TV Mass, Diocese of Venice, 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34285. For more information email ardy@dioceseofvenice.org.

News Briefs for the Week of December 8, 2023

Posted on December 15, 2023December 15, 2023 by Bob Reddy

Appointments

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

Father David Vidal, Pastor of Ave Maria Parish, is welcomed to the Presbyterate of the Diocese of Venice and is incardinated into said Diocese, effective November 21, 2023.

Father Augustine Twum Obour, Parochial Vicar of St. Agnes Parish, is welcomed to the Presbyterate of the Diocese of Venice and is incardinated into said Diocese, effective November 21, 2023.

Father Claudio Stewart, Administrator of St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish, is welcomed to the Presbyterate of the Diocese of Venice and is incardinated into said Diocese, effective November 22, 2023.

Father Juan Carlos Sack, Parochial Vicar of Our Lady Queen of Heaven Parish, is welcomed to the Presbyterate of the Diocese of Venice and is incardinated into said Diocese, effective November 22, 2023.

Catholic Center Christmas Tree blessed by Bishop

Bishop Frank J. Dewane led the blessing of the Catholic Center Christmas Tree on Dec. 5, 2023, in Venice. The blessing was part of a prayer service that included readings and petitions as staff of the Catholic Center gathered. Afterwards, the tree was decorated, and holiday treats were offered.

Students receive personal Bibles

Sixth grade students at St. Joseph Catholic School in Bradenton were each presented with a personal Bible that they will use throughout middle school and will keep for their spiritual growth. The presentation took place on Nov. 17, 2023, by Parish Pastor Father Rafal Ligenza and Liliana Ronderos, St. Joseph Religious Education Director, who visited the sixth graders. Father Ligenza led a prayer service and blessed Bibles for each of the students.

Advent wreaths made in Naples

The Home and School Association of St. John Neumann Catholic High School in Naples and Theology Teacher Erica Szczechowski orchestrated an Advent Wreath Making night on Dec. 1, 2023, for the ladies of the school. This was a community-building event. Let the light of the wreaths guide everyone through this season of anticipation and reflection.

Students learn about kindness

Florida Gulf Coast University Roots of Compassion and Kindness students visited St. Francis Xavier Catholic School in Fort Myers to talk to middle schoolers about kindness. The students worked on communication and teamwork (kind words and kind hands) with games and reflective activities in a spirit of enthusiasm, patience and fun.

Students learning new measuring technique

First grade students in Dixie Kreulen’s class at St. Catherine Catholic School in Sebring learned how to measure including the question: “Can we measure God’s love?” on Nov. 20, 2023. This is a good example of how Diocesan Catholic schools use an integrated curriculum called “The Gifts of Christ: Truth, Beauty, Goodness, Affability, Fortitude, Humility, and Prudence,” expanding the scope of the STREAM model (science, technology, religion, engineering, arts and math), into the classroom.

Bishop to speak at Theology on Tap in December

Each month, on the third Thursday, young adults gather for faith, fellowship and fun at the Mandeville Beer Garden in Sarasota. Theology on Tap is presented by the Diocese Office of Evangelization, and the Dec. 21, 2023, guest speaker will be Bishop Frank J. Dewane. The Mandeville Beer Garden is located at 428 N. Lemon, Ave., and the gathering begins at 7 p.m. For any questions, please email Jim Gontis at gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

News Briefs for the Week of November 10, 2023

Posted on November 10, 2023November 10, 2023 by Bob Reddy

Parish joins Knights in supporting vocations

The 25th anniversary of the priestly ordination of Father Bob Kantor, Pastor of St. Agnes Parish in Naples, was a cause for celebration on the weekend of Oct. 28-29, 2023. The celebration served the dual purpose of supporting vocations as well as honoring Father Kantor. A special second collection was held to raise funds for the Florida Knights of Columbus Charities Vocations Fund. The fifth Sunday of a month is used for charitable causes outside of the Parish. More than $8,000 was collected. The monies will be designated for use in support of seminarians studying for the Diocese of Venice. Father Kantor serves as State Chaplain for the Knights’ Florida State Council. The timing of the support coincides with National Vocations Awareness Week which was Nov. 5-11.

Students learn computer coding

Sixth-grade students at St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral had an incomparable opportunity on Nov. 7, 2023, delving into the world of computer coding with the help of Jason Castaldo, a teacher from Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers. Under the guidance, inspiration, and expertise of Castaldo, the students explored the fascinating realm of programming and problem-solving. It was a journey filled with creativity, logical thinking, and the excitement of building digital wonders. Enthusiastically delving into the “Hour of Code” is paving the way for the future of these talented students.

Tasting the World!

Our Lady of Grace Parish in Avon Park hosted its annual International Food Festival on Nov. 5, 2023, in the Parish Center. Participants had the opportunity to “taste the world” in this culinary journey, sharing the flavors of their culture with food from many different countries, such as Colombia, Germany, Haiti, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Mexico, Philippines, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and more. There were even hot dogs, ice cream, and popcorn for the little ones.

Students gather in the form of a Cross

Students at St. Ann Catholic School in Naples gathered Nov. 6, 2023, on the soccer field to stand in the form of a cross. This is an annual tradition at the school which is a fun day outside for the students as they gather in the form of an important symbol of the faith. The school has experienced rapid growth in recent years with enrollment topping 425, up 40 percent since 2020.

Parish celebrates All Saints’ Day with relics

For the second year in a row, Incarnation Parish in Sarasota had a special display set up for All Saints’ Day (Nov. 1, 2023). Saint relics, on loan from parishioners, were put on display for people to visit between Masses on the Solemnity. Many lined up to view the relics, touch rosaries to them, and pray for the powerful intercession of the Saints. The Second Vatican Council recalls that “the Saints have been traditionally honored in the Church, and their authentic relics and images held in veneration.” The term “relics of the Saints” principally signifies the bodies – or notable parts of the bodies – of the Saints who, as distinguished members of Christ’s mystical Body and as Temples of the Holy Spirit in virtue of their heroic sanctity, now dwell in Heaven, but who once lived on earth. Objects which belonged to the Saints, such as personal objects, clothes and manuscripts are also considered relics, as are objects which have touched their bodies or tombs such as oils, cloths, and images.