September 5, 2025
Pope Leo XIV turns 70 on Sunday, September 14! Join the Diocese in Celebration! - The Diocese of Venice is participating as a group in a worldwide effort to generate an outpouring of prayer for Pope Leo XIV on the occasion of his milestone birthday and his first birthday as Pope. Join us! OSVNews has partnered with the USCCB, the Pontifical Mission Societies, Relevant Radio and others to create a spiritual birthday bouquet for the Holy Father. The Spiritual Bouquet, called “Pizza and Prayer,” will be made up of a variety of prayer options from a full novena to a Holy Hour to a rosary. Participants are also encouraged to pray together and then grab a slice of pizza in honor of one of Pope Leo’s favorite treats! Each prayer effort will be noted, collated, and sent to the Holy Father. The Diocese of Venice will be submitting offerings as a group. Submit your prayer offerings for Pope Leo as part of the Diocese of Venice here: Spiritual Bouquet for Pope Leo - Diocese of Venice Deadline to participate as part of the Diocese of Venice is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, September 12! Happy Birthday, Pope Leo!
National Day for Grandparents and the Elderly this Sunday – This Sunday, September 7 the Church in the United States celebrates National Day for Grandparents and the Elderly. (World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly was recently celebrated by the worldwide church on July 27. The USCCB has designated the September date to coincide with the United States designated Grandparents Day.) Take time this Sunday to recognize your grandparents, and your parents, and the important role they have played, and still play, in your life! Their wisdom and lived experience is essential to the continuation of our Catholic faith. Pope Leo XIV reminds us of the importance of grandparents and the elderly to the Church, and in our lives: “The life of the Church and the world can only be understood in light of the passage of generations...If it is true that the weakness of the elderly needs the strength of the young, it is equally true that the inexperience of the young needs the witness of the elderly in order to build the future with wisdom. How often our grandparents have been for us examples of faith and devotion, civic virtue and social commitment, memory and perseverance amid trials! The precious legacy that they have handed down to us with hope and love will always be a source of gratitude and a summons to perseverance.”
Save the Date: Catholic Mass on Veterans Day - A Catholic Mass on Veterans Day, Tuesday, November 11, will be held outdoors in the Amphitheater at Sarasota National Cemetery at 3:00 pm. This annual Mass, now in its 16th year in the Diocese of Venice, has become a sacred tradition. Gathering as one people under God, we honor and remember our United States veterans, both living and deceased. All are welcome to attend and join in prayer for the souls of our faithfully departed veterans as well as for those currently in the military, and all who labor to protect the freedom we enjoy. If you are a member of the military, come, and wear your uniform! Opening ceremonies begin at 2:45 p.m.
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.
Youth Jubilee Adoration Night - All youth are invited to St. Catherine Catholic Church, 820 Hickory Street, Sebring on Friday, September 26, from 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Experience an evening of prayer, music, and Eucharistic Adoration as part of the Jubilee 2025 celebrations. For more information, contact Andres Prias, 941-441-1122.
Next Mustard Seed will be September 19 - (For Parish Staff) Please note that the Mustard Seed schedule for the remainder of the year was revised in July; see revised 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!
Pray for Safety! Hurricane Season is here - The 2025 Atlantic hurricane 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:
“Let us all ask God for protection and safety and also pray for the people who continue to recover from previous disasters."
“Let us all ask God for protection and safety and also pray for the people who continue to recover from previous disasters."
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, 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. Click here 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.
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:
For English-Speaking Couples - Day of Reflection Retreat, September 20 at St. John the Evangelist's Pulte Hall, 625 111th Avenue North in Naples or November 8 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, 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 Spanish-Speaking Couples - Retreats in Spanish are offered at St. Jude Parish, Sarasota, October 25, and at St. Peter the Apostle Parish, Naples, 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.
For Couples 55 and older - Two Become One Retreat, September 13, 8:45 am - 5:00 pm at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice. The $60 registration fee includes all retreat materials and lunch. To register, click here.
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, (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.
Bereavement Retreat – For those grieving the death of a loved one, the Diocese offers a Bereavement Retreat on October 30, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice. Led by Deacon Henry deMena, who holds a Master’s degree in counseling, this faith-based retreat offers a safe and prayerful space to find peace, comfort, and healing. For more information or to register, contact Jim Gontis, gontis@dioceseofvenice.org, (941) 486-4754.
Bereavement Training for Parish Teams -This two-day training session, to be held on October 27-28, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice, equips parishes to support those who are grieving with compassion and faith. Led by Deacon Henry deMena, a counselor with extensive bereavement experience, the training sessions are open to all those who work or volunteer in parishes to help the bereaved. Practical guidance will help participants confidently serve those who mourn within their parish communities. Topics include the role of God in suffering, and group facilitation skills. For more information or to register, please contact Jim Gontis, 941-486-4754.
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! - Join a worldwide prayer campaign to end abortion during 40 Days for Life this Fall in the Diocese of Venice, September 24 – November 2, 2025. 40 days for Life is an international 40-day campaign that aims to end abortion locally through prayer and fasting, community outreach, and a peaceful all-day vigil in front of abortion businesses. To learn more about how to support or participate in 40 Days for Life in Southwest Florida, contact Tavia Ames, 941-441-1101, or visit the 40 Days for Life website, here.
Special Kickoff Events This Fall Include:
Fort Myers Kickoff Event! Wednesday, September 24, 6:00 p.m. - Highlighted by an abortion testimonial and inspiring pro-life speakers, and a Diaper Drive for Pro-Life Pregnancy Centers. (Please bring diaper donations 5 & 6!) Meet on the sidewalk outside Planned Parenthood, 6418 Commerce Park Drive, Fort Myers. All are welcome! Come to be inspired, and to pray for the mothers and children of our community and an end to abortion in Lee County. Questions? Email 40DaysForLifeFM@gmail.com
Naples Kickoff Rally & Adopt A Day to Pray! Wednesday, September 24, 10:00 a.m. - Meet on the sidewalk outside Planned Parenthood, 1425 Creech Road, Naples, for a peaceful prayer vigil. Speakers include Scott Baier, CEO, Community Pregnancy Clinics, and Pam Stenzel, Client Services Director, Community Pregnancy Clinics. All are welcome! Bring your friends and church members! Also in Naples, sign up is now open for Adopt A Day to Pray! Sign up for a spot September 24 – November 2, anytime between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., in front of the Planned Parenthood, 1425 Creech Road, Naples. To Adopt A Day to Pray, text or call Ricki Giersch at 630-514-2058, or email rickigiersch61@gmail.com.
Sarasota Kickoff Event! Friday, September 26, 10:30 a.m. - Join us to pray in the shadow of the regional headquarters of Planned Parenthood, the largest abortionist in the country. Meet in the parking lot of Community Pregnancy Clinics Inc., 1419 7th St., Sarasota. All are welcome! Bring a friend! Questions? Email 40DFLSarasota@gmail.com
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
Abortion Healing: A Retreat Offering Compassionate Support – If you know someone struggling because of a past abortion, please encourage them to make the call that can provide them with relief, and peace. Project Rachel is the outreach of the Catholic church to those who are suffering from a past abortion. Project Rachel will host a confidential, private retreat for abortion healing in the Diocese of Venice in October. For information, or to join, call or text in English or Espanol, 941-412-5860. All communication is kept confidential.
Culture of Life Conference 2025 -Registration is now open for the 38th Annual Culture of Life State Conference! To be hosted by the Archdiocese of Miami on Saturday, October 4, the Conference will feature expert speakers on the topics of IVF, Human Trafficking, Amendment 4, and more! Mass will be celebrated by Archbishop Thomas Wenski. For more information, or to register, visit the Diocese of Venice website, or contact Tavia Ames, ames@dioceseofvenice.org, 941-374-1068.
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.
Celebrate Priesthood Sunday, by Supporting our Seminarians - The faithful are being asked to support, encourage and educate future priests through the Venice Diocesan Council of Catholic Women Seminarian Fund. The Diocese is currently educating 16 men at various seminaries, and a donation of any amount would be a great help. The way the VDCCW supports seminarians is through celebrating Priesthood Sunday, Sept. 28. To do this in a special and lasting way, the VDCCW will facilitate sending an "In Honor of” card to your Parish Priest. This is a gift that keeps on giving as all proceeds support the VDCCW Seminarian Fund (The donation amount will not be revealed to the recipient). To take part, please send the name of the priest you would like to honor, along with your donation, made out to VDCCW Seminarian Fund (plus $1 to cover postage and printing) to: Cornelia Zanetti, Seminarian Fund Guardian, 5808 Gulf Drive, #204, Holmes Beach, FL 34217.
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.
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.
Summertime and the Giving is Easy Appeal - There's still time to give! 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. 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!
Volunteers needed at Sarasota Catholic Charities 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.
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.
Catholic Singles Potluck and Social Event - The Catholic Fellowship Around Naples Group invites singles ages 25-55 on Saturday, September 136:00 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/
St. Peter the Apostle Young Adult Retreat (in English & Spanish) - Discuss how Biblical text reaches us at the Young Adult Retreat on Saturday, September 13, 7:30 am to 7:30 pm at St. Peter the Apostle Church, 5130 Rattlesnake Hammock Rd, Naples. All youth and young adults ages 18-35 are invited. The Young Adult Retreat is designed to reach bilingual and Spanish-speaking young adults, inviting all 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 Jóvenes Adultos en San Pedro Apóstol (en inglés y español) - Ven a descubrir cómo el texto bíblico nos habla en el Retiro de Jóvenes Adultos el sábado 13 de septiembre de 7:30 a.m. a 7:30 p.m. en la Iglesia San Pedro Apóstol, 5130 Rattlesnake Hammock Rd, Naples. Todos los jóvenes y adultos jóvenes de 18 a 35 años están invitados. Este retiro está diseñado para jóvenes adultos bilingües y de habla hispana, invitando a todos a un tiempo de renovación espiritual, conexión y crecimiento en la comunidad de Naples. El retiro incluirá adoración, enseñanzas, grupos pequeños y oportunidades para descansar y compartir. Para más información, por favor contacta a Alejandra Alvarado, Coordinadora del Grupo de Jóvenes - St. John Paul II 305-209-2225.
NEW! St. Raphael Youth Group - All teens are invited to be part of the new Youth Group at St. Raphael Catholic Church, 2514 Lee Blvd, Lehigh Acres, Sunday, September 14, 2:00 p.m. This group will gather every Sunday at 2:00 pm for friendship, faith, service, and fun. For more information contact Andrew Mora, 239-369-6424.
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., Wednesday, September 17, at San Pedro Parish, 14380 Tamiami Trail, North Port, in the Chapel. The vigil will coincide with the scheduled execution of David Joseph Pittman, who is set to become the 12th 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.
The Filipe Experience for Young Adults (in Spanish) - St. Jude Catholic Church invites young adults (19 to 35 years old) to live the Philip Encounter: A new life in Christ Jesus. Friday, September 26, 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm, Saturday, September 27 · 8:00 am – 7:00 pm, Sunday, September 28, 8:00 am – 12:00 pm. Parish Hall B2, St. Jude Catholic Church, 3930 17th Street, Sarasota. Cost $75.00 per person – Limited space – includes snacks and meals. For more information: (941) 955-3934. Pre-registration here.
La Experiencia Felipe para Jóvenes Adultos (en español ) - St. Jude Catholic Church invita a los jóvenes adultos (19 a 35 años) a vivir la Experiencia Felipe: Una nueva vida en Cristo Jesús. Viernes 26 de septiembre, 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm., Sábado 27 de septiembre, 8:00 am – 7:00 pm, Domingo 28 de septiembre, 8:00 am – 12:00 pm. Salón Parroquial B2, St. Jude Catholic Church, 3930 17th Street, Sarasota. Costo $75.00 por persona - Cupo limitado – incluye refrigerios y comida. Por más información: (941) 955-3934. Pre-inscripción aquí.
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.
Movie Event at San Pedro Parish - "Unplanned" is the inspiring true story of a Planned Parenthood clinic director who became a pro-life advocate after witnessing the reality of abortion. The free showing is Sunday, October 5 at 3:00 p.m. at San Pedro Parish, 14380 Tamiami Trail, North Port. Contact Deacon Rich for more information at 914-388-4389.
Fundraiser for Organization Providing Vital Support to Women - Every woman deserves a safe place to turn when she is pregnant and alone. On October 10, St. John the Evangelist Catholic Parish, 625 111th Avenue North, Naples is hosting a fundraising dinner for Sunlight Home, an organization that provides vital support and services to women, including those who are pregnant and in crisis, facing homelessness, fleeing abuse or trying to break free from cycles of poverty and fear. Visit https://sunlighthome.org/events/ for tickets or more information.
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 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.