March 7, 2025
Appointments
After consultation, Bishop Frank J. Dewane announces the following:
Reverend Juan Daniel Petrino, as Parochial Vicar at St. Jude Parish, Sarasota, effective March 3, 2025.
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Establishment of New Missions - In response to continued growth and the sacramental and spiritual needs of the Faithful, Bishop Dewane has established St. Benedict Mission in Lakewood Ranch and St. John Paul II Mission in Naples. The Missions will initially be supported by Our Lady of the Angels Parish in Lakewood Ranch (St. Benedict) and St. Agnes Parish in Naples (St. John Paul II). Land has been designated for each Mission, and building plans are underway.
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Save the Date - The Chrism Mass, which takes place during Holy Week every year, will be held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, April 15 at St. John the Evangelist Parish, 625 111th Ave. N., Naples. During this Mass, Bishop Frank J. Dewane will bless the Holy Oils which are used in the administration of the Sacraments at each parish throughout the year. Priests and Deacons celebrating 25 and 50 years of Ordination are recognized at this Mass. All are encouraged to attend in support of our clergy and to participate in this important Holy Week celebration.
Jubilee Year 2025, Pilgrims of Hope - Pope Francis has designated the 2025 Holy Year as a time to renew ourselves as “Pilgrims of Hope.” As Pilgrims of Hope, we are asked to carry hope in our hearts and bring hope to others. There are many ways to participate in the Jubilee Year, including right here in the Diocese of Venice!
Five locations in the Diocese of Venice have been designated as Jubilee pilgrimage sites by Bishop Frank J. Dewane. Each of the geographical regions of the Diocese were selected for the convenience of the faithful, so that they may take advantage of the grace of the Jubilee Year 2025. These pilgrimage sites are:
- Epiphany Cathedral in Venice
- St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers
- St. John the Evangelist Parish in Naples
- St. Paul Parish in Arcadia
- Our Lady of Perpetual Health Retreat & Spirituality Center in Venice
More information about how to participate in the Jubilee Holy Year can be found throughout the year at the Diocese of Venice website: www. dioceseofvenice.org/jubilee-2025-pilgrims-of-hope/
The jubilarians being honored this year are:
Priests 50 Years: Father Gregory Klein, O. Carm., Father Normando Feliz, and Father Michael Mullen;
Priests 25 Years: Father Luis Pacheco, and Father Saji Ellickal Joseph, MCBS
Deacon 25 Years: Deacon Richard Klish
Diocese of Venice Eucharistic Conference – In recognition and celebration of the third and final year of the National Eucharistic Revival, and the 2025 Jubilee Year, the Diocese of Venice will host a third Eucharistic Conference. The Diocesan-wide event will take place Saturday, March 29, 2025, at Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center in Punta Gorda located at 75 Taylor Street. The theme of the event is “Becoming Eucharistic Missionaries,” and will include Mass celebrated by the Most Rev. Frank J. Dewane, Bishop of the Diocese of Venice, inspirational talks by Dr. Scott Hahn and Kimberly Hahn, and Spanish breakout sessions featuring Mary Ann Weisinger-Puig and Andrés Arango. The Conference will include opportunities for Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and Confession. Registration is now open! Cost is $35 per person and includes lunch. (Clergy and Consecrated Religious are free admittance, but registration is requested.) All are welcome. Embrace the opportunity to reinforce your belief in and reverence for the Most Holy Eucharistic, become a Eucharistic missionary and celebrate the Jubilee Year! Learn more and register at https://www.dioceseofvenice.org/eucharistic-congress
Youth & Young Adult Adoration Nights - Come to adore and praise the Lord during the Jubilee Holy Year! Although these Adoration Nights are youth-focused, with youth-centric music and speakers, all are welcome to come to adore and praise the Lord and celebrate the Jubilee. Each Jubilee Adoration Night takes place from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on the following dates and locations:
- Saturday, March 22, St. Patrick Parish, 7900 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota
- Friday, May 2, St. Paul Parish, 1330 E. Oak. St., Arcadia
There is no cost to attend, but registration is requested. To register: dioceseofvenice.regfox.com/jubilee-2025-adoration-nights- For more information contact Andres Prias at prias@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-484-9543.
Jubilee Year of Hope Retreat: A Path to Healing Your Broken Heart - Walk together on the journey of healing, restoring our hearts and preparing to receive Christ with open arms at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 South Moon Dr, Venice on Friday, April 11 at 3:00 p.m. through Sunday, April 13 at 1:00 p.m. Led by Father Shawn Monahan, OMV, an experienced guide who has a passion for helping others heal the wounds that come from living in a broken world. Register on OLPH website (www.olph-retreat.org) and click on “Schedule of Events.”
Witnessing Faith with Bishop Dewane on Relevant Radio - Join Bishop Frank J. Dewane for his monthly radio program on Relevant Radio on 106.7 FM and 1410 AM in Fort Myers and 93.3 FM and 1660 AM in Naples. Witnessing Faith with Bishop Dewane can be heard at 8:30 a.m. on the last Friday of every month, or anytime at dioceseofvenice.org/ourbishop. The next episode will air on Friday, March 28.
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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.
Malta Camp USA - Malta Camp USA, inspired by the Order of Malta’s charism, is a unique 5-day experience for adults with disabilities. The camp is free, and will be offered this summer from June 22-27, 2025, at Siena College in Loudonville, New York (outside of Saratoga). Primarily designed for those 21-40 years of age, Malta Camp participants have an opportunity to feel independent, enjoy new experiences, and make new friends. The camp opens doors for many disabled adults who might otherwise live very “shut-in” lives. To learn more, or to apply, visit www.maltacampusa.org. Application deadline is Friday, March 14.
Malades & Caregivers-In-Spirit Program – Are you a member of The Order of Malta? If so you may want to take advantage of a special program, which benefits the most seriously ill among us, and/or their caregivers. Called Malades and Caregivers-In-Spirit, each year the Order invites its members to suggest someone they know of who is seriously ill, or their caregiver, to “attend” their annual Lourdes Pilgrimage, in spirit. If you are a member of The Order of Malta and have a candidate for the MIS Program or CIS Program, please speak to that person first; if the person wants to be included in the program, please complete the registration form by April 15th. The registration form can be found at www.orderofmaltaamerican.org/members/lourdes-pilgrimage/mis/
40 Days for Life Spring Campaign, March 5 - April 13 - 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. In the Diocese of Venice, 40 Days for Life campaigns are held in three locations: Sarasota, Fort Myers, and Naples. In Naples, attend a Meet & Greet with Shawn Carney Wednesday, April 2, 12 noon – 1:00 p.m. Shawn Carney is the CEO of 40 Days for Life and leader of the first-ever 40 Days for Life campaign in Texas in 2004. To learn more about how to support or participate in 40 Days for Life in the Diocese of Venice, click on a location below, or visit dioceseofvenice.org/respectlife.
Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord, March 25, 2025 - Exactly nine months before we celebrate the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, we celebrate the Annunciation of the Lord. In today’s Gospel, we hear how Mary answered God’s call to bear his only Son. To honor Our Blessed Mother, the Earthly Mother of Jesus Christ, and her unquestioning "yes" to God, perhaps pray the Hail Mary before your mealtime prayer today with your family.
9 Months in the Womb with Jesus - Follow nine months of Jesus in the womb week-by-week at https://dioceseofvenice.org/offices/offices-departments/respect-life/nine-months-with-christ-in-the-womb/
Florida Catholic Advocacy Network (FLCAN) - The Florida legislative session is starting soon, and your elected officials need to hear from you! As a Florida Catholic, you have the opportunity to put your faith into action with the Florida Catholic Advocacy Network (FLCAN). Stay informed and advocate for the protection of human life and dignity in state law and policies. Stand up for the vulnerable, including preborn babies, low-income families, children, the sick and dying, immigrants, refugees, incarcerated individuals, and others who often have no voice of their own. Sign up today at flaccb.org/flcan
Theology on Tap March - Theology on Tap is a program for young adults in their 20s and 30s, providing an opportunity to explore faith topics in a relaxed and social setting at Oak & Stone, 5405 University Parkway, University Park. The speaker for Thursday, March 20 is Father Nathan Marzonie, OMV. The evening begins with food and refreshments at 7:00 p.m. Presentations and discussions about the Catholic Faith begin at 8:00 p.m. Please email Andres Prias at prias@dioceseofvenice.org with any questions.
Diocese of Venice Totus Tuus Summer Camp Missionaries Wanted for Summer 2025! – Totus Tuus is an exciting Catholic Parish Catechetical Camp for students in grades 1 – 12. The weeklong day camp held at Parishes in the Diocese of Venice is led by trained, paid missionaries. Applications are welcomed from anyone age 18 or older with an authentic, dynamic Catholic faith who is actively living the teachings of the Catholic Church. One year of college/work is preferred, but mature recent high school graduates will be considered. This is a great summer experience for anyone who wants to work in ministry, education, or with children in other settings! Click the QR code or visit https://www.totustuus.church/be-missionary to apply!
New Opportunities for Young Adult Catholics – The Catholic Mobilizing Network (CMN) offers two new opportunities for young adults. CMN’s mission is to end the death penalty, advance justice and begin healing.
- Paid summer internship with CMN: The Congregation of St. Joseph Summer Internship position at CMN is for students ages 19-24 who are enrolled in a college or university at the undergraduate or graduate level. Summer interns work 30 hours a week in-person in Washington, DC alongside all members of CMN staff and participate in a spiritual leadership formation experience with the Congregation of St. Joseph. Deadline to apply for Summer 2025 is March 14. Click here to learn more, or to apply: https://catholicsmobilizing.org/about-us/interns-volunteers/
- Poetry contest offers a chance to win $1,000: CMN’s annual Justice & Mercy Poetry Contest for Young Adults invites young adults ages 18-39 to submit original poems about the injustice of the death penalty for a chance to win up to $1,000. Deadline for submissions is March 20. Click here to learn more, or to submit: https://catholicsmobilizing.org/our-work/death-penalty/young-adult-poetry-contest/
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.
Easter Triduum Retreat - Supper on Holy Thursday, April 17 begins this 4-day retreat, ending with breakfast on Easter Sunday at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat and Spirituality Center, 3989 S. Moon Dr., Venice. Enjoy six Conferences focusing on the passion, death, and resurrection of the Lord. Celebration of the liturgies of the Lord’s Supper, Way of the Cross, Commemoration of the Lord’s Passion, Easter Vigil, and Sunrise Easter Liturgy are celebrated. Confessions also available. Register today at (www.olph-retreat.org) and click on “Schedule of Events.”
Ignatian Preached Silent Retreat - Father Greg Cleveland, OMV will introduce you to the great themes of the Spiritual Exercises in a group setting Friday, May 9 to Monday May 12. 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. Register on our website (www.olph-retreat.org) and click on “Schedule of Events.”
Bereavement Retreat for Hispanic Parents - Deacon Roberto Landron is hosting a Spanish-Speaking retreat based on the Catholic faith to offer grieving parents a safe space of peace, comfort, and hope, as they form community with those who share their path. Held at the OLPH Retreat Center the weekend of April 25, 26 and 27, the retreat costs $150 for individuals and $250 for couples. Financial assistance is available. For more information call 239-592-1949.
Venetian Ball - Saturday, March 22, at St. Leo the Great Catholic Parish, 28290 Beaumont Road, Bonita Springs at 6:00 p.m. Tickets are $250 per person and will benefit the programs in Lee, Hendry, and Glades counties. Contact 239-342-1620 or email VenetianBall@catholiccharitiesdov.org Buy tickets online here: https://one.bidpal.net/vb2025/welcome
Emerald Ball - Wednesday, March 26, at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón, 2600 Tiburon Dr., Naples at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $400 per person and will benefit the programs in Collier County. Contact 941-786-2762 or email EmeraldBall@catholiccharitiesdov.org Buy tickets online here: https://one.bidpal.net/eb2025/welcome
Catholic Young Adults of Naples - All Catholic young adults are welcome to attend weekly small groups to help strengthen their relationship with God, and build community with each other at 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays for ages 35-55 and Thursdays for ages 21-39 at St. John the Evangelist Parish in the Claussen Center, 625 111th Ave. N., Naples, FL. No RSVP is required and for further information, please email Marisa Bermudez at catholicyoungadultsofnaples@gmail.com.
Lenten Parish Mission - St. William Catholic Church, 601 Seagate Dr.
Naples, will host a Parish Mission Monday, March 10 through Wednesday March 12 at 8:30 a.m. and 6:60 p.m. Dominican Friars of the Angelicum in Rome will discuss "The Presence of God." For more information visit www.saintwilliam.org
Naples, will host a Parish Mission Monday, March 10 through Wednesday March 12 at 8:30 a.m. and 6:60 p.m. Dominican Friars of the Angelicum in Rome will discuss "The Presence of God." For more information visit www.saintwilliam.org
The Regency Garden Gala - Bishop Verot Catholic High School presents a formal evening of timeless regency elegance Saturday, March 15 at 5:30 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point, 5001 Coconut Rd, Bonita Springs. Dress is formal and proceeds benefit the high school. To secure tickets visit www.bvhs.org/advancement/gala. Call the school at 239-274-6700 for additional information.
Faith & Ale Fort Myers - Joint event with Faith & Wine at St. John XXIII Parish, 13060 Palomino Ln, Fort Myers on Thursday, March 20 at 6:00 p.m. Speaker Dr. Tim Gray the President of The Augustine Institute will present, "Lent as the Model for the Spiritual Life." Register at faithandale.com
5-Day Parish Lenten Mission - “Living the Sacraments” – Finding God at the Intersection of Heaven & Earth" Lenten Mission at St. Jude Parish, 3930 17th Street, Sarasota, Sunday, March 30 through Thursday, April 3, from 5:30 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. (English) and 7:30 p.m. - 8:45 p.m. (Spanish). Five evenings, 5 topics presented by Redemptorist Priests, Fr. Patrick Keyes and Fr. Moisés Mosqueda Ventura, CSS.R. For more information, please call 941-955-3934.
The Four Last Things: Death, Judgment, Heaven, and Hell - A presentation by Jim Gontis, Director of Evangelization, Diocese of Venice. Wednesday, April 2 from 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm at St. Francis Xavier Parish, 2157 Cleveland Ave, Fort Myers. No cost to attend. For more information, please call 239-334-2161.
Community Pregnancy Clinics Dinner Event - "Reaching Hearts" is the theme of Saturday, April 5 5:00 p.m. dinner event supporting Community Pregnancy Clinics at the Ritz-Carlton Naples Tiburon, 2600 Tiburon Dr, Naples. Reception, dinner and keynote speaker from pro-life advocate and Blaze TV host Liz Wheeler are included. To register visit supportcpci.com or email events@community4life.com to learn more.
Our Lady of Light Divine Mercy Service - Gather at Our Lady of Light Parish, 19680 Cypress View Dr., Fort Myers Thursday, April 24 at 1:00 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. for Adoration followed by Benediction. Spend some time in the Presence of the Blessed Sacrament and the Divine Mercy Image. Followed by Bilingual (Spanish and English) Service of Prayer, Sung Chaplet and Consecration from 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
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.