visit Archives - Diocese of Venice

News Briefs for the week of October 23, 2026

Posted on October 23, 2026October 23, 2026 by Bob Reddy

Bishop celebrates Mass in Bradenton

Bishop Emilio E. Biosca, O.F.M. Cap., celebrated Mass at Ss. Peter and Paul the Apostles Parish, Bradenton, Oct. 18, 2026. The Mass was a follow-up to a visit in August which was part of Bishop Emilio’s tour of parishes at the beginning of his episcopy. The bishop was presented with an icon featuring Ss. Peter and Paul. The Mass was followed by a parish celebration in the hall.

Parish celebrates life of St. Carlo Acutis

St. Katharine Drexel Parish, Cape Coral, celebrated the feast of St. Carlo Acutis Oct. 12, 2026, with a special day centered on the Holy Eucharist, prayer, and the communion of saints. The celebration included Holy Mass, the blessing of a new St. Carlo Acutis statue, and the veneration of first-class relics of St. Carlo Acutis and other beloved saints. Parishioners gathered throughout the day for Eucharistic Adoration, the Holy Rosary, the Divine Mercy Chaplet, and Holy Hours, concluding with a Family Holy Hour and Benediction. May the example of St. Carlo Acutis inspire all to deepen their love for Jesus in the Eucharist and to pursue holiness in their daily lives.

2026 Diocesan Eucharistic Rosary Congress concludes

The annual Diocese of Venice Eucharistic Rosary Congress, Oct. 2-10, 2026, reached thousands across the region with each parish participating. Many parishes participated for a full 24 hours, while some took part for at least a half-day. Each opened with the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, and included Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, and the hourly praying of the Rosary. Epiphany Cathedral, Venice, included a Eucharistic Procession. Many also offered Confession times for the faithful. Begun in 2021, the purpose of the Congress is for the glory of God and the salvation of souls.

Bishop visits two more Catholic schools

Bishop Emilio Biosca, O.F.M. Cap., celebrated Mass for and visited St. Catherine Catholic School, Sebring, Oct. 9, 2026, and at St. Joseph Catholic School, Bradenton, Oct. 21, 2026. In Sebring, Bishop Emilio had brunch with members of the school board and supporters of the school. Principal Stephen Cullipher then gave Bishop Emilio a tour of the two main classroom buildings while sharing how the school has grown since opening in 2008 as the only Catholic school in the Eastern Deanery. In Bradenton, Principal Dr. Tom Noonan directed the bishop on a tour of the school offering a history of the only Catholic school in Manatee County. During both visits, Bishop Emilio was greeted enthusiastically by the students who were fascinated by the brown Capuchin habit he wears.

October bishop radio show to honor life of Bishop Dewane

Are you tuning in to “Lighting the Lantern with Bishop Emilio”? It’s a monthly radio show and podcast with Bishop Emilio E. Biosca, O.F.M. Cap., in conversation with his guests, with a new episode released on the last Friday of each month! Listen on https://sites.libsyn.com/627175, on Apple or Spotify podcasts, or Relevant Radio. The October episode, to be released on Friday, Oct. 30, 2026, will be a tribute to Bishop Emeritus Frank J. Dewane. Think you knew him? Maybe not! Learn more from some who knew him best.

40 Days for Life continues

The 40 Days for Life prayer vigil to end abortion which continues through Nov. 1, brings together people of faith from all walks of life who share a commitment to protecting human life through peaceful prayer and public witness. Fall 40 Days for Life prayer vigil hours include: Fort Myers: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Saturday, 6418 Commerce Park Drive; Sarasota: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., 7-days-a-week, at 736 Central Ave.; Naples: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Saturday, at 1425 Creech Road. A Jericho Walk will take place at 4 p.m., Nov. 1, in Sarasota; and a closing rally is scheduled for 6 p.m., Nov. 1, in Fort Myers.

Weekend retreat for bereaved parents

A “Retreat for Grieving Parents: Walking with Jesus,” is coming to Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, Venice, Oct. 30 – Nov. 1, 2026. This Catholic faith-based retreat offers grieving parents a space of peace, comfort, and hope, where they can also find support within a community that shares their journey. Cost for a shared room is $150 per person, $250 for a private room. To register, visit https://dioceseofvenice.regfox.com/2026-bereaved-parents-weekend-retreat. For more information, please contact Lisa Dahn at 239-961-1161 or lgdahn@gmail.com, or Jim Gontis at 941-486-4754 or gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

Breakfast with the saints

St. William Parish, 750 Seagate Drive, Naples, is hosting a Breakfast with the Saints, following the 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Masses, Nov. 1, 2026, in honor of All Saints Day. In addition to the pancake breakfast, the parish youth group will offer a presentation on various saints, and there will also be saint information booths, as well as saint cards for attendees. The cost is $5 per person. All are welcome. For more information contact Linda Giacalone, Youth Minister at lindag@saintwilliam.org or 239-963-4705.

Parish Mission in Cape Coral Nov 1-2

St. Katharine Drexel Parish, 1922 SW 20th Ave., Cape Coral, is hosting a Parish Mission with Jon Leonetti Nov. 1 and 2, 2026. The schedule for both nights begins at 6 p.m., with the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Adoration, the mission talk (with confessions available throughout), and a closing Benediction, solemn blessing and dismissal. There is an additional talk on Nov. 2, following the 9 a.m. Mass. All are welcome for this opportunity for prayer, reflection and renewal.

Holiday Bereavement Outreach Retreats

Those grieving the loss of a loved one are invited to “There Is Hope: Coping with the Death of a Loved One During the Holidays,” a Catholic bereavement retreat led by Deacon Henry de Mena and offered at four locations throughout the Diocese of Venice on Nov. 3-6, 2026. All retreats are from 8:30 a.m. to noon, at the following parishes: Nov. 3, Our Lady of Lourdes, Venice; Nov. 4, Sacred Heart, Punta Gorda; Nov. 5, St. Paul, Arcadia; and Nov. 6, St. Agnes, Naples. There is no cost to attend. For more information, or to register, please visit 2026 Coping with the Death of a Loved One During the Holidays, or contact Jim Gontis at 941-486-4754 or gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

Theology on Tap Naples Nov. 6

Theology on Tap in Naples will meet at 6 p.m., Nov. 6, 2026, at South Street Grill, 1410 Pine Ridge Road, Naples. Father Marco Mascia, parochial vicar at St. William Parish, will be leading the discussion on “Passionate Discipleship.” Pizza will be provided. Come, enjoy an engaging discussion and good fellowship with friends. All young adults aged 18 and up are welcome.

St. William Council of Catholic Women Luncheon Nov. 6
The St. William Parish Council of Catholic Women will host a luncheon 1 p.m., Nov. 6, 2026, in the Parish Hall, 750 Seagate Drive, Naples. The guest is award winning author, historian and motivational speaker Kerriann Flanagan Brosky, who will share insights about her latest book, “Padre Pio Daily Reflections – 350 Days of Prayer, HOPE and Don’t Worry,” to help others on their journeys of faith. Admission is $30 per person and includes a buffet lunch. All are invited to attend. For reservations and questions contact ccwluncheon@yahoo.com or 239-919-6950.

St. Jude Parish 22^nd Hispanic Fall Festival Nov. 7

Everyone is invited to Southwest Florida’s most anticipated festival, the 22^nd annual St. Jude Parish Hispanic Fall Festival, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Nov. 7, 2026, at St. Jude Parish, 3930 17th St., Sarasota. Enjoy food from 13 Latin American countries, music, art, prizes, entertainment, and activities for children. Free admission. Proceeds benefit the program for the needy and the new church.

Catholic singles event in Naples Nov. 7

The Catholic Fellowship Around Naples Singles Ministry presents a night of faith and fellowship, 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., Nov. 7, 2026, St. Elizabeth Seton Parish Center, 5225 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples. The night is for Catholic singles in their 30s, 40s, and 50s, with Father Casey Jones, pastor of St. Elizabeth Seton, as the featured speaker. Pizza and beverages will be provided. To learn more, please visit https://catholicfellowshiparoundnaples.wordpress.com/singles-ministry/. For additional information, please contact Jim Gontis at 941-486-4754 or gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

Charismatic Renewal Conference in Port Charlotte Nov. 7

A Charismatic Renewal Conference will take from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., St. Charles Borromeo Parish, 21505 Augusta Ave., Port Charlotte. This will be a day of empowerment, healing and impartation with speaker Deacon Larry Oney and Andi Oney. Register at venicecharismatic.org Price is $65 and includes breakfast and lunch.

Ave Maria Veteran’s Ball Nov. 7

The annual Knights of Columbus “Ave Maria Veteran’s Ball: Celebration for All,” is 6 p.m., Nov. 7, 2026, at the Del Webb Grand Hall, Ave Maria. The keynote is Capt. Daniel L. Mode, U.S. Navy Chaplain, the original postulator of the Cause of Canonization of Servant of God Father Vincent Capadanno. The evening also includes dinner and dancing. Tickets are $125 per person, and proceeds benefit veteran’s program. For tickets, please visit www.avemariakofc.org/veterans-ball.

Kristallnacht commemoration of Holocaust Nov. 8

The Catholic Jewish-Dialogue of Collier County invites the community to its commemoration of the 88th anniversary of Kristallnacht, 2:30 p.m., Nov. 8, 2026, St. William Parish, 601 Seagate Drive, Naples. The annual interreligious event commemorates, Kristallnacht, Night of Broken Glass, a systematic attack on the Jewish people and businesses in Germany that marked what is considered the start of the Holocaust. Explore the roots of the Holocaust and reflect on how its lessons resonate today. The event is sponsored by the Diocese of Venice, the Holocaust Museum & Janet G. & Harvey D. Cohen Education Center, GenShoah of SWFL, Jewish Federation of Great Naples. All are welcome. The event is free of charge. Register at https://jfgn.regfox.com/kristallnacht-2026.

Catholic Mass on Veterans Day in Sarasota

An invitation is extended to all to attend a Catholic Mass on Veterans Day to worship and also to honor all veterans, living and deceased, and their families Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2026, at the Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Road 72, Sarasota. Opening ceremonies begin at 2:45 P.M. Contact Rachel Powers at powers@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-486-4716 for more information.

Faith & Ale Lee County Nov. 12

Faith & Ale, a Catholic Men’s Apostolate presents West Point graduate, U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Andrew Juknelis, 6:30 – 8 p.m., Nov. 12, 2026, at St. Leo the Great Parish, 28290 Beaumont Road, Bonita Springs. The topic is titled, “From Foxholes to Barstools: A Soldier’s Take on Faith, Revival and America’s Next 250.” The requested donation is $10. Register online at Major General Andrew Juknelis 11/12/26 – Faith & Ale | A Gathering of Catholic Men.

Christmas Market on Longboat Key Nov. 12-13
The Women’s Guild of St. Mary Star of the Sea Parish will have a Christmas Market Nov. 12, 2026 (4 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.), and Nov. 13 (10 a.m. – 2 p.m.) in the Father Pick Hall, 4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. For more information, please contact Sue DiNatale at 716-713-1604.

Solve Maternity Home Legacy of Light Gala Nov. 14

Solve Maternity Homes in Sarasota is hosting its Legacy of Light Gala in celebration of 50 years of service to helping young women choose life despite uncertainty, help mothers in recovery find hope in a new beginning, and much more. The Gala is 5:30 p.m., Nov. 15, 2026, at The Ora, 578 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. For sponsorship opportunities and tickets, please visit www.solvehomes.org or call 941-748-0094.

UNSHAKEN Youth Rally Nov. 14
High school youth from across the Diocese of Venice are invited to an unforgettable day of faith, fellowship, inspiring talks, live music, prayer, and celebration! Inspired by John 15:5 “I am the vine; you are the branches.” The Rally will remind young men and women that when we remain rooted in Christ, we can stand UNSHAKEN. The Rally is 12:30 – 8 p.m., Nov. 14, 2026, Charlotte Harbor Conference Center, Punta Gorda. Registration deadline is Nov. 6. All youth must register through their parish youth group or through their high school. For more information, and to register, please visit Unshaken Youth Rally 2026.

Faith and Wine Lee County returns Dec. 3

The 2026-2027 Faith and Wine Lee County returns 6 – 8:30 p.m., Dec. 3, 2026, at the Church of the Resurrection, 8051 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers. The guest speaker is Nikki Kingsley, a recognized Catholic speaker, author and evangelist whose powerful testimony has inspired audiences across the world. The theme for her talk is “Transformed by Love.” Registration opens Oct. 15, https://faithandwineleecounty.com/. Tickets are $28 and include a catered dinner and a glass of wine. If you have any questions, please email faithandwineleecounty@gmail.com.

Retiro para Padres en Duelo en Español, 4 al 6 de diciembre

Se llevará a cabo un “Retiro para Padres en Duelo: Caminando con Jesús”, en español, del 4 al 6 de diciembre de 2026 en el Centro de Retiros Nuestra Señora del Perpetuo Socorro (Our Lady of Perpetua Help Retreat Center) en Venice. Este retiro católico, basado en la fe, ofrece a los padres que han perdido a un hijo un espacio de paz, consuelo y esperanza, donde también podrán encontrar apoyo dentro de una comunidad que comparte su mismo camino de duelo. Para obtener más información, comuníquese con Jim Gontis al 941-486-4754 o gontis@dioceseofvenice.org.

Something new is coming to OLPH this Christmas!

This December, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, Venice, will become Bethlehem Village – a special Christmas celebration inviting families, friends, and parish communities to step into the story of Christmas. On Dec. 13, 2026, come for a day filled with Christmas music, family activities, a festive Bethlehem Marketplace, Bishop St. Nicholas, and a Live Nativity — all centered on the joy and meaning of Christ’s birth. OLPH is looking for a select group of local artisans and small businesses to become part of our Bethlehem Village Marketplace! The retreat center is intentionally creating a small, curated marketplace featuring unique products such as honey, olive oil, handmade soaps, handmade candles, and baked goods. Interested in being part of Bethlehem Village? Vendor applications are now being accepted! Apply at: https://www.olph-retreat.org/vendors-wanted. For more information, call 941-486-0233.

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. Contact Joe Mallof at 224-217-7139 or Bob Hiniker 863-558-0407.

Bishop Emilio continues school visits

Posted on October 15, 2026 by Bob Reddy

Catholic education made such a lasting impression on Bishop Emilio E. Biosca, O.F.M. Cap., when he was growing up that as he tours Diocese of Venice Catholic schools for the first time, he sees eager children who are opening their minds and hearts to the teachings of Christ.

“I remember and cherish those years in elementary school, where were learned, naturally, reading, writing, mathematics, science, social science, and other subjects, but also that Church was a really important part of our education and formation,” Bishop Emilio said to students at Incarnation Catholic School, Sarasota, Oct. 1, 2026. “You grow to realize through the years, that your parents, and my parents, made this commitment to take us to the Catholic school so we could learn the faith together.”

Bishop Emilio visited Incarnation on Oct. 1, the memorial of St. Therese of Lisieux (the Little Flower), described the Carmelite Doctor of the Church, who lived by the saying, “to do small things with great love.”

“The smallest things you do, such as making the sign of the cross when you wake, has a lot of devotion and love, where immediately we can make a connection with God, the Holy Spirit and with Jesus Christ,” Bishop Emilio said. “Give a glass of water to someone, but do it with a lot of love… When we do small things with great love for God, with our full heart and devotion, it lasts forever.”

Bishop Emilio tour of the school campus coincided with a middle school science fair. The experiments, on display in the parish hall, range from water filtration, wind turbines, sustainable backpacks, solar power, and much more. As the bishop visited each project, the students eagerly shared details about the experiments and what they learned. The projects were judged by fellow students as well as a contingent from nearby Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School.

Before visiting several classrooms, Bishop Emilio watched the children on the playground and even joined in shooting some basketballs as students cheered him on.

The bishop was also impressed by how much, even pre-K students, learned at such a young age, including memorizing prayers, songs and much more.

Bishop Emilio also visited St. Ann Catholic School, Naples, Oct. 2, the memorial to the Holy Guardian Angels. Again, the day opened with the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, and this was followed by a school gathering in the Jubilee Center.

The bishop answered a series of questions from students from different grades about different aspects of being a bishop, a priest, a Franciscan and more. At the end, student from each grade presented the bishop with handmade greeting cards or posters. One class had a theme of “Aloha,” so they also presented the bishop with a lei, and it placed over his head.

Bishop Emilio E. Biosca, O.F.M. Cap., tosses a football during a Oct. 2, 2026, visit to St. Ann Catholic School, Naples.

One of the highlights of the classroom visits was to a PreK-4 class which had made fresh applesauce, which Bishop Emilio said was the best he’s had in Florida. Later, the bishop visited the school’s different playgrounds and even tossed around a football to the delight of the students.

The Catholic school visits for Bishop Emilio will continue through November.

Bishop visits seminarians on east coast

Posted on October 1, 2026 by Bob Reddy

For the first time since his installation as Shepherd of the Diocese of Venice, Bishop Emilio E. Biosca, O.F.M. Cap., had the opportunity to visit the two Florida seminaries where 17 men are at various stages in their formation and discernment to the priesthood.

The visits took place Sept. 25-27, 2026, first at St. John Vianney College Seminary, Miami, and then at St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary, Boynton Beach.

Bishop Emilio had the opportunity to tour the two schools while also taking time to meet privately with each of the men. The goal of these meetings was to get to know the men better as well as to offer his direct support and guidance as they continue their formation journey.

“It was good for me to be able to do this and have the opportunity to be able to sit down and talk with each of the men individually,” Bishop Emilio said. “This was to better learn their stories and encourage them in their spiritual formation and growth,”

The visit coincided with Parent’s Weekend at St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary, affording the bishop an opportunity to meet the families of several seminarians. Bishop Emilio also presided over the Institution of Lectors and Acolytes, Sept. 27, at St. Joan of Arc Parish in Boca Raton.

In the coming weeks, Bishop Emilio will also travel to visit one seminarian at Mount St. Mary College, Emmitsburg, Maryland, and three at Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary in Weston, Massachusetts.

Bishop begins longer visits to Catholic schools

Posted on September 25, 2026September 25, 2026 by Bob Reddy

Bob Reddy, Florida Catholic

The Zazarino Center was packed with students, faculty and parents from St. Mary Academy and St. Martha Catholic School in anticipation of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass on Sept. 17, 2026.

Bishop Emilio E. Biosca, O.F.M. Cap., was the celebrant for the Mass, his second Catholic school Mass since his July 11 ordination, but the first that included a lengthy visit.

The purpose of the longer visit was to first learn about the history of the schools, Bishop Emilio explained. Then learning how the schools are currently functioning.

“It is also about learning about your hopes and dreams, and to learn about any difficulties you might be having,” Bishop Emilio said. “Also, how the Diocese of Venice can make Catholic schools stronger in educational ways as well as in the faith, which is the reason these schools exist in the first place.”

Bishop Emilio offered a brief personal history and explained how his parents ensured that no matter their financial standing he and his sisters each went to Catholic schools in Virginia while they were growing up.

“I went to St. Anthony’s in Falls Church, St. Leo in Fairfax, and Bishop O’Connell High School in Arlington,” the bishop said. “I have clear memories of praying the rosary outside, every week.”

While in high school, Bishop Emilio said that he was privileged to meet St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta, and her message to the students was to “‘always love your brothers and sisters; and love the one you are close to.’ That is a powerful lesson for all students.”

At the conclusion of the Mass, Bishop Emilio was presented with hand-made greeting cards from the students, randomly picking one out which welcomed him to the diocese and warning him to be wary of alligators.

Following the Mass, Bishop Emilio greeted the parents during an informal reception. He then met with the leadership including St. Mary Principal Rebecca Reynolds and St. Martha Principal Mari Jo Hanson.

The tour opened with a gathering in the school chapel of eighth graders from both schools. There, Bishop Emilio fielded a wide variety of questions, with many focusing on his life as a Capuchin priest.

When asked about what it is like to be a bishop, Bishop Emilio said, “I’m still getting used to it. Right now, it is easier than where I was before at a very busy parish. Like my time in the missions (Papua New Guinea and Cuba), I come with the idea that I will never leave. This is because to do your work as the Shepherd of the Diocese, you cannot be connected to the people if you are disconnected and distracted by outside things. It is important to be where you are supposed to be.”

The bishop explained that his favorite part about being a bishop is when he has time to speak to people after Mass and they share their personal spiritual journey.

“It’s hearing how God was working in their life and led them along the way,” Bishop Emilio said. “God can work through all the different kind of variables in our lives, and He speaks to people’s hearts. That is always good to remember as we deal with life.”

The bishop spoke about his recent travels to Italy where he spent time participating in a new bishop course at the Vatican which culminated in a meeting with Pope Leo XIV.

Bishop Emilio said that while in Italy he spent time at the tombs of apostles Ss. Peter and Paul, as well as those of several popes, carrying with him the prayers of the faithful of the Diocese of Venice, including those of the students in diocesan Catholic schools.

Throughout the rest of the day, Bishop Emilio visited as many classrooms as was practical, first visiting the pre-kindergarten-4 students just prior to their nap time. These young students presented him with a gift, a framed image of the cross which read, “Welcome Bishop Emilio” at the top and the cross held the colored fingerprints of each student.

Other highlights of the visit included one student proclaiming that after shaking hands with Bishop Emilio he would not be washing that hand ever again. The bishop assured him he would make sure to visit the school often and it was ok to wash his hand. While visiting the outdoor playground, Bishop Emilo had time to bless rosaries that were made by fourth grade students.

Bishop Emilio praised principals Reynolds and Hanson on their respective schools and ensured them that he would be returning often.