August 22, 2025
Pope Leo calls for day of prayer and fasting for peace - Pope Leo XIV has invited the faithful to unite in prayer and fasting for peace on Friday, August 22, the Memorial of the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary, saying "I invite all the faithful to devote the day of 22 August to fasting and prayer, imploring the Lord to grant us peace and justice, and to dry the tears of those who suffer as a result of the ongoing armed conflicts. Mary, Queen of Peace, intercede so that peoples may find the path to peace."
Catholic University of America Collection - The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., is the national University of the Catholic Church in the United States. The Diocese of Venice will take up a collection for the Catholic University of America the weekend of September 6 and 7, 2025. Contributions help the University to educate thousands of young people in both faith and reason, while upholding the highest standards of education. May God Bless you for your generosity!
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Jubilee Year 2025, Pilgrims of Hope - Bishop Frank J. Dewane has designated five locations in the Diocese of Venice as Jubilee pilgrimage sites. The sites are located throughout the Diocese for the convenience of the faithful, so that the grace of the Jubilee Year 2025 may be experienced by all. Information about how to participate in the Jubilee Holy Year can be found throughout the year at the Diocese of Venice website.
Next Mustard Seed will be September 5 - (For Parish Staff) Please note that the Mustard Seed schedule for the remainder of the year was revised earlier this month; see new schedule in the attachment below. (Is everyone in your Parish office signed up to receive the Mustard Seed directly to their inbox every other Friday? If not, sign them up here!)
Great Resource for Catholic Women! - Pope St. John Paul II coined the term “the feminine genius.” Explore and expand your feminine genius and grow in faith in a new online community, designed specifically for Catholic women. The Women’s Formation Community is a place where Catholic women come together to reflect on their unique charisms and vocation and receive ongoing intellectual formation among a vibrant community of like-minded women. Try it for free! Word on Fire offers a 30-day free trial. To learn more, or to join, visit the Word on Fire Institute online.
Pray for Safety! Hurricane Season is upon us - The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season has begun in Florida! The season runs through November 30. With a history of these storms producing destruction in the region, Bishop Frank J. Dewane reminds us that we must pray for safety: “As the new Atlantic Hurricane Season arrives, let us all ask God for protection and safety and also pray for the people who continue to recover from previous disasters." ~ Bishop Frank J. Dewane
To view or download a Prayer for Safety in Hurricane Season in English or Spanish, visit the Diocese of Venice website.
Save the date! Rosary Congress 2025 – The Diocese of Venice will host its annual Rosary Congress October 4-10, 2025, with a growing number of Parishes throughout the Diocese participating. The theme of this year’s Rosary Congress is My Soul Magnifies the Lord (Luke 1:46). The Rosary Congress begins with the celebration of daily Mass and ends with Mass at the same time the next day. During these designated 24 hours, the Blessed Sacrament is exposed for perpetual Adoration, and the five decades of the Rosary are prayed by the faithful every hour, on the hour. Many Parishes will also have Confession available. Stay tuned for a list of participating Parishes, and how you can be part of this beautiful opportunity to adore and grow closer to our Lord. For more information, contact Jim Gontis, gontis@dioceseofvenice.org, 941-486-4754.
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 for pastoral outreach, distribution of the Eucharist and more. 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 Diocese of Venice Prison Ministry Co-Coordinators Bob Hiniker, 863-558-0407 or Joe Mallof, 224-217-7139 to learn where you can fit into this joyful opportunity.
NOTE NEW LOCATION! Together in Holiness Marriage Conference – Bishop Frank J. Dewane invites all Catholic married and engaged couples to join him at the Diocese’s fifth annual Marriage Enrichment Conference on October 18 at Our Lady of Light, 19680 Cypress view Drive, Fort Myers. The Marriage Conference, “Family, A School of Love,” presents a unique opportunity to share a day dedicated to prayer, conversation, and reflection on the sacred vocation of marriage together with your spouse. Grow together in holiness and receive guidance and tips for how to strengthen your marriage and form your children in the Catholic faith. This event will sell out, so register early. To register, visit www.togetherinholiness.org/venice. Questions? Contact Jim Gontis, gontis@dioceseofvenice.org, 941-486-4754.
Marriage Prep Retreats/Seminars - Marriage Preparation Retreats are required by the Diocese of Venice for those couples preparing for Sacramental Marriage in the Catholic Church. Remaining Marriage Preparation Retreat offerings this year are:
A Day of Reflection for Sacramental Marriage - Saturday, September 20 at St. John the Evangelist's Pulte Hall, 625 111th Avenue North in Naples or Saturday, November 8 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Dr. in Venice, 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. The $60 registration fee includes all retreat materials and lunch. Registration is required. To register, click here.
For Couples 55 and older, Two Become One Retreat, September 13. To register, click here.
For Spanish-Speakers, Marriage Prep for Spanish-Speaking Couples - To be offered in Spanish at St. Jude, Sarasota, on October 25, and at St. Peter the Apostle, Naples, on November 8 & 9. St. Jude. cost is $60; please call the Parish to register - (941) 955-3934. Retreats at St. Peter the Apostle are Saturday and Sunday (1 & 1/2 days), however, not overnight. Sessions will begin at 7:15 a.m. for check in and light breakfast on both days; Saturday's session will conclude at 5:30 p.m., and Sunday's session will conclude at 3:00 p.m., including Mass. Cost is $150.00 per couple. Financial assistance is available. Please contact the Parish's Spanish Marriage Prep Coordinator, Maria Gomez, for more details and to register, (239) 302-8548 or marly2002@comcast.net.
Couples unable to attend one of the above in-person retreats may contact the Diocesan Marriage Prep office to register for the online version, available in both English and Spanish. Please contact Jim Gontis, Director of Evangelization, gontis@dioceseofvenice.org, (941) 486-4754.
Natural Family Planning Introductory Session – Learn about Natural Family Planning with a free introductory session. The Diocese of Venice sets forth the Creighton Model Fertility Care System, and free online training sessions are being offered by the St. Gianna Center for Women’s Health & Fertility Care. Remaining 2025 sessions include Saturday, September 20, and Tuesday, October 21. Choose one that fits your schedule! The sessions are free, but registration is required. Register at bit.ly/SGIntroSession. For more information, visit stgiannacenter.com, or with questions, contact Jim Gontis, gontis@dioceseofvenice.org, 941-486-4754.
Become a Natural Family Planning Practitioner! St. Gianna Center for Women’s Health & Fertility Care offers a Nationally Accredited Education Program for those wanting to become a Creighton Model Fertility Care Practitioner (FCP). The 13-month course is an empowering approach to women’s reproductive healthcare that is safe from side effects, is life-affirming, cost-effective, and clinically proven. Next class is November 15, at Most Holy Name of Jesus Parish, Gulfport, FL. Scholarships are available. Contact Becky at 813-421-4625 or visit https://stgiannacenter.com/become-a-practitioner/ Questions? Contact Jim Gontis, gontis@dioceseofvenice.org, 941-486-4754.
Death Penalty Prayer Vigil - A prayer vigil to pray for the end of the death penalty in Florida will take place 5:30 p.m., Thursday, August 28, at San Pedro Parish, 14380 Tamiami Trail, North Port, in the Chapel. The vigil will coincide with the scheduled execution of Curtis Windom, who is set to become the 11th person executed in Florida this year, an unfortunate record number for the state. The vigil lasts less than hour and includes hymns, a Gospel reading, reflections, intercessions, and a praying of the Rosary. A pause will take place at 6 p.m., the time Florida executions take place. All are welcome and encouraged to attend.
National Day of Remembrance for Aborted Children - On Saturday, September 13, 2025, the Church recognizes the National Day of Remembrance for Aborted Children, please join us in praying for the repose of their souls. In Sarasota, Incarnation Parish, 2901 Bee Ridge Road, will observe the day with a dedicated Prayer Service following the Saturday Mass at 8:30 a.m., followed by brief, informational presentations about upcoming local Respect Life initiatives. Flowers will also be placed in front of the Incarnation Memorial to the Unborn in the prayer garden. All are welcome to attend. For more information, or with questions, contact Tavia Ames at ames@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-441-1101.
40 Days for Life Kick Off Event - Join us Wednesday, September 24, 6:00 p.m. on the sidewalk outside Planned Parenthood, 6418 Commerce Park Drive, Fort Myers, for a 40 Days for Life Kick Off Event. No RSVP required, call a friend and show up to be inspired and to pray for the mothers and children of our community and an end to abortion in Lee County! Rain or shine! Concurrently there will be a Diaper Drive for Pro-Life Pregnancy Centers; if you would like to donate, please bring diapers sizes 3,4,5,6.
The 40 Days for Life fall 2025 campaign will take place from September 24th to November 2nd, 2025. This campaign aims to end abortion through prayer and fasting, community outreach, peaceful vigils in front of abortion facilities. Participants support the mission by attending, spreading awareness and praying. For more information, please email Tavia Ames, or call 941-441-1101.
Be A Hero, Save A Life! - Learn the peaceful, prayerful method of sidewalk counseling from Sidewalk Advocates for Life and help women and men entering abortion facilities choose life! Upcoming training sessions include:
● Saturday, September 20, 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Ave Maria University, 5088 Ave Maria Blvd., Ave Maria
● Saturday, November 8, 9:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m., St. John XXIII parish in Fort Myers, 13060 Palomino Lane, Fort Myers
The training is free of charge. Lunch and workbooks will be provided.
If you would like to learn this method or learn more about this life-saving ministry, please contact Cyrille Velasco at cyrillevelasco@gmail.com or Bob Reynolds at rgrcons1@gmail.com. Please RSVP at least 10 days in advance of each training date. If you are unable to attend these in-person sessions, online training is also available. More information at sidewalkadvocates.org
Respect Life Volunteers Needed! - Do you have a passion for life? The Diocese of Venice needs you! We are looking for volunteers and leaders interested in becoming involved in local respect life activities with their Parish. If you live in the Palmetto or Parrish area, we could especially use your help. To get involved, please email Tavia Ames, or call 941-441-1101.
Formation Program in Spanish - The next session of the Hispanic Apostolate’s Formation Program will begin on September 5. We are celebrating the Jubilee Year, and the Catholic Church also commemorates the 1700th anniversary of the Nicene Creed, therefore, our topic of study will focus on the “The Nicene Creed.” There will be a total of eight classes held from 7:00 pm. to 9:00 pm. on Fridays (Thursdays during Lent) through February 26, 2026. The cost for all the classes is $35 including a Catechism for those who do not have one. Students who register and attend a minimum of seven classes at one of the participating parishes or online using our APP (www.pastoralhispanavenice.com) will qualify to receive a Diocesan Certification.
Programa de Formación en español - La próxima sesión del Programa de Formación a cargo del Apostolado Hispano comenzará el 5 de setiembre del 2025. Estamos celebrando el año del Jubileo y la Iglesia Católica tambien conmemora el aniversario 1700 del Credo Niceno, por tanto, enfocaremos nuestro tema de estudio en “EL CREDO NICENO”. Habrá un total de 8 clases que se darán los viernes por la noche de 7:00 pm a 9:00 pm. (jueves durante la Cuaresma) concluyendo el 26 de febrero del 2026. El costo por todas las clases es de $35 incluyendo un Catecismo para quienes no cuentan con uno propio. Los estudiantes que se inscriban y atiendan un mínimo de 7 clases ya sea en una de las parroquias participantes o vía online usando nuestro APP (www.pastoralhispanavenice.com) calificarán para recibir una Certificación Diocesana.
Fiat Ministries Retreat - The weekend of October 10-12, 2025, single women ages 18-30 seeking God’s will in their life are invited to grow deeper in prayer and in their identity as women, as well as learn more about discerning religious life. This retreat is led by Team Fiat, a dynamic group of lay women passionate about supporting other young women. Additionally, consecrated religious sisters from various religious communities from the Council of Major Superiors of Women Religious (CMSWR) assist at the retreats, making each a unique experience. The goal is for retreatants to walk away with a greater desire to grow in relationship with Jesus Christ while meeting religious sisters. Cost is $50. To register, visit fiatministries.org/retreats/. Questions, email Emily at fiatministriesinc@gmail.com
Carlo Acutis Movie Now Streaming: Watch! – On September 7, 2025, we will witness a historic moment: the canonization of two young men who continue to inspire countless people around the world, Blessed Carlo Acutis and Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati. Learn more about one of these future saints, Carlo Acutis, by streaming Carlo Acutis, Roadmap to Reality; this moving documentary not only tells the story of Carlo’s life and his remarkable gifts but also paints a vivid picture of spirituality in the digital age and the profound impact his witness has on young people. The National Eucharistic Revival is offering a 20 percent discount for the rental with the code REVIVAL20 for a limited time. Click here to stream the film.
Young Adult Spanish Retreat in Naples - St. Peter the Apostle Parish, 5130 Rattlesnake Hammock Road, Naples, is hosting a 2025 Young Adult Spanish Retreat, ¿Cómo nos llega el texto bíblico?, September 13, 2025, 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. The Young Adult Retreat is designed to reach bilingual and Spanish-speaking young adults, inviting them to a time of spiritual renewal, connection, and growth in the Naples community. The retreat will include worship, teaching, small groups, and opportunities for rest and fellowship. For more information, please contact Alejandra Alvarado, St. John Paul II Young Adult Group Coordinator at 305-209-2225.
Retiro de español para jóvenes adultos en Naples - La Parroquia San Pedro Apóstol, ubicada en 5130 Rattlesnake Hammock Road, Naples, organiza el Retiro de Español para Jóvenes Adultos 2025, "¿Cómo nos llega el texto bíblico?", el 13 de septiembre de 2025, de 7:30 a. m. a 7:30 p. m. Este retiro está diseñado para conectar con jóvenes adultos bilingües e hispanohablantes, invitándolos a un tiempo de renovación espiritual, conexión y crecimiento en la comunidad de Naples. El retiro incluirá culto, enseñanza, grupos pequeños y oportunidades de descanso y convivencia. Para más información, comuníquese con Alejandra Alvarado, Coordinadora del Grupo de Jóvenes Adultos de San Juan Pablo II, al 305-209-2225.
Theology on Tap – Join us for a night of fellowship, faith, and fun with fellow Catholic young adults from across the Diocese. Don’t miss this chance to grow in faith, connect with others, and enjoy a great evening together. Theology on Tap meets on the third Thursday of every month at Oak & Stone, 5405 University Parkway, University Park. Next meeting is Thursday, September 18! No cost to attend, and no registration required. Bring a friend!
Safe Environment Training - As part of the Safe Environment Program, the Diocese of Venice requires that all employees and those volunteers who work with children and/or vulnerable adults be fingerprinted and complete online training in Safe Environment prior to beginning employment or volunteering. To report any abuse against minors to the Florida Department of Children and Families please call 800-962-2873. Further, if Diocesan personnel or volunteers are involved, also notify the Diocesan Victims Assistance Coordinator, Susan Benton, at 941-416-6114. Please visit the Diocese of Venice website for further information.
Volunteers needed at Sarasota Catholic Charities Sarasota Office - Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice, Inc., welcomes volunteers who wish to become involved with any of their programs, services or ministries. The most urgent need for volunteers is at the Sarasota office, 5055 N. Tamiami Trail, which offers disaster response, housing and support services, anti-human trafficking programs, immigration assistance, and much more. The mission of Catholic Charities is to eliminate food insecurity, homelessness and offer essential mental health services to everyone seeking assistance – regardless of race or religion. To sign up as a volunteer, please visit catholiccharitiesdov.org/volunteer, or for more information, please call 941-355-4680 ext. 1100.
There's still time to give! Summertime and the Giving is Easy Appeal - Every day, Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice serves the most vulnerable among us by feeding, housing, empowering, and helping those in need in the Diocese's 10 counties. This summer, you can be the one that makes a difference in someone's life. The giving is easy, and you have the power to transform lives through your kindness and generosity. Visit catholiccharitiesdov.org/summertime or mail a check to Catholic Charities, “Summertime and the Giving is Easy,” 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34285. For more information, or with questions, call 941-488-5581. Thank you!
Marilyn Brummer Fund, Grant Applications Now Open - The Catholic Community Foundation of Southwest Florida is pleased to announce that grant applications are now being accepted for the Marilyn Brummer Fund. Brummer was a devout Catholic and an active parishioner at St. John XXIII Catholic Church in Fort Myers. She was incredibly generous with her time, her talent, and her treasure in order to make a difference in the lives of others, especially students and the most vulnerable among us. As a part of her Catholic Legacy, and through a generous gift from her estate, Marilyn created a fund with the Catholic Community Foundation to continue supporting causes which she cared about most, long after she is gone. This year, the CCF will be awarding a total of $108,000 in grants to programs, projects, or entities that are located in, and associated with, the Diocese of Venice in Florida. The program, project or entity must be involved in one of the following areas: Anti-human trafficking assistance; Programs that assist single mothers; and Children’s Center of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc. in Fort Myers. Grant applications must be submitted online and can be found on the Catholic Community Foundation website www.ccfdioceseofvenice.org, under “Community Grants.” All applications are due by August 31, 2025. For any questions, please contact the Foundation at CCF@dioceseofvenice.org or call 941-441-1124.
To view all OLPH events, visit www.olph-retreat.org and click on Events, then Schedule of Events. Register online for all events.
Jubilee Monthly Days of Prayer for September - The Monthly Day of Prayer at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice, for September is Sept. 10 and 14, 2025. Father Greg Cleveland, OMV, will explain how to “Find God in All Things.” Discover how God dwells in all things by his essence, presence, and power. The day begins at 9:30 a.m. with a continental breakfast and includes two presentations, the opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, lunch, and Mass. Time for adoration, private prayer, or meditation on the beautiful OLPH grounds is also provided. The day concludes at 3:15 p.m. Cost is $45. Register at olph-retreat.org.
Ignatian Priest Silent Retreat - Beginning on Friday, November 21 and ending on Wednesday, November 24, this silent retreat will introduce you to the great themes of the Spiritual Exercises in a group setting. The schedule includes conferences each day, daily Mass, and an opportunity to meet at least once with the retreat director for Confession and/or spiritual direction. Conference topics center on Ignatian spirituality, prayer, and discernment. The cost is $525.00 per person for a private room and $360.00 per person for a shared room (retreatant to locate appropriate roommate where silence can be maintained). Register at olph-retreat.org.
Save the Date! 2026 Butterfly Ball - OLPH is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. Join us as we celebrate the last 30 years and toast to the next 30 at our Butterfly Ball on January 24, 2026. For more information on how you can support or participate in the celebration, visit the Butterfly Ball.
Jubilee Prayer Site - Visitors are welcome at OLPH Mondays - Fridays 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. throughout the year. The grounds provide a peaceful place to reconnect with the Lord, reflect in solitude and offer up your intentions. Refer to our website for more information: www.olph-retreat.org/jubilee-of-hope-2025
OLPH Available for Private Retreats - The Retreat Center has openings for 1, 3, 5, and 7-night individual (directed) retreats. Group retreats are also available. To learn more or to register for a group or private retreat, please visit olph-retreat.org or call (941) 486-0233.
OLPH Seeks Volunteers - Our Lady of Perpetual Help is in need of volunteers. Help us provide a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere for those who come to us seeking transformation in Christ. Areas of need include answering phones, gardening, dishwashing and serving meals. Contact the office to sign up at 941-486-0233.
Italian Canonization Party - Celebrate the Canonization of Pier Giorgio Frassati and Carlos Acutis Saturday, September 6 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Epiphany Cathedral, 350 Tampa Ave. W, Venice. Enjoy games, food, live music and special tributes to these holy young men. Everyone is welcome! Contact ross@epiphanycathedral.org for more information.
Canonization Event in Sarasota - St. Patrick Parish, 7900 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, is hosting an event for the Canonization of Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati on Sunday, September 7 from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. after the Masses. In the Parish Hall, there will be informative panels about “God’s Army: 25 Saints Under 25.” Each panel will have an image of the saint, information about each of their lives and a prayer that participants can say to the saint as they view each panel. All are welcome!
Inter-Parish Bible Study - Register for the day or evening bible study, "Walking with Purpose" to be held at St. William Church, 601 Seagate Dr., Naples. Both sessions run September 9 through October 21. Daytime study is held in the Church Hall from 10:00 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. Evening study in held from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the Blessed Mother Center. For scholarships, babysitting or questions contact Lisa McGowan at mcgowanlh@gmail.com or by text: 484-432-5128.
“Dueling Pianos” Event - The St. Ann Catholic School Home and School Association presents “Dueling Pianos,” 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday, September 13, at the St. Ann Jubilee Center, 985 3rd St. S., Naples. This first of its kind adults only event held to support St. Ann Catholic School. Tickets are $75 and include a live performance, catered food, and adult beverages. Join in the singing, dancing, and laughing all night long. Deadline to purchase tickets is Sept. 4, at https://pci.jotform.com/form/252088122620146.
Catholic Singles Potluck and Social Event - The Catholic Fellowship Around Naples Group invites singles ages 25-55 on Saturday, September 13 from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at St. John the Evangelist's Rome Room, 625 111th Ave. North, Naples for a potluck and social event. There is no cost and bringing food is encouraged. Register online: catholicfellowshiparoundnaples.wordpress.com/singles-ministry/
Seminarian Fund - The Venice Diocesan Council of Catholic Women invites you to support Priesthood Sunday on September 28. A donation of any amount will help support the education of 17 men in various seminaries. Please send a check made out to "VDCCW Seminarian Fund" to: Cornelia Zanetti, Seminarian Fund Guardian,
5808 Gulf Drive, #204, Holmes Beach, FL 34217.
Laps for Life 5K in Sarasota - Our Lady of Victory Knights of Columbus Council 3358 in Sarasota is hosting its 6th annual Laps for Life 5K, 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., Saturday, October 4, at Cardinal Mooney High School, 4171 Fruitville Road, Sarasota. Proceeds will support Solve Maternity Homes. The cost is $45 per runner/walker. Participants can register at www.RunSignUp.com, under the listing: Sarasota Laps for Life 5K. The Knights of Columbus is also hosting a pre-race Pasta Night, 6 p.m., 8 p.m., in the Knights Hall, 4880 Fruitville Road, Sarasota. Tickets are $10 per person.
Faith & Ale Lee County returns in October - Faith & Ale, a Catholic Men's Apostolate in Southwest Florida, is entering its 16th season. The monthly gatherings of Catholic men promote fellowship and growth in faith, on the third Thursday of every month between October and April. The next meeting is Thursday, October 23, at St. Leo the Great Parish, 28290 Beaumont Drive, Bonita Springs. The guest speaker is Matt Laboda, a father, consultant, speaker and theologian who lives in Ave Maria, and the theme is “The Miracle of Joy - A Journey of Trust & Faith in God." Tickets are $10. Register at https://faithandale.com. For more information, email faithandalefortmyers@gmail.com.
Free Rosary Repair Service - Send your broken rosaries in a padded envelope to Betty and Dick Holden, Free Rosary Repair Service, 7930 Estero Blvd., Unit 502, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931. Rosaries will be repaired and returned within the week of receipt. Donations of old rosaries are also accepted which will be repaired and sent to missions. Include a note indicating repair or donation. For more details, please call 239-463-3993, 860-595-6370 or email the Holdens.