April 24, 2026
Clarification on Just War Theory and the Teaching of the Catholic Church
In light of recent public comments regarding the Catholic Church’s teaching on war and peace, the Chairman of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Doctrine, Bishop James Massa, issued a statement, which highlights that “for over a thousand years, the Catholic Church has taught just war theory . . . A constant tenet of that thousand-year tradition is a nation can only legitimately take up the sword ‘in self-defense, once all peace efforts have failed’ (Catechism of the Catholic Church, no. 2308).”
Bishop Massa went on to further explain that “when Pope Leo XIV speaks as supreme Pastor of the Universal Church, he is not merely offering opinions on theology, he is preaching the Gospel and exercising his ministry as the Vicar of Christ. The consistent teaching of the Church is insistent that all people of good will must pray and work toward lasting peace while avoiding the evils and injustices that accompany all wars.”
Bishop Massa’s complete statement can be found here.
The USCCB has condensed the Church’s teaching on Just War Theory into an easy-to-understand infographic which you may find helpful to share with your parishioners; it is attached below.
Let us remain united in praying for Peace!
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Celebrating Catholic Contributions to the United States of America on the Country’s Semiquincentennial Anniversary
As the United States of America commemorates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) joins the festivities by recognizing and celebrating the contributions of Catholics and the impact of our faith on the history of this country.
As part of this celebration, in a historic moment the U.S. bishops will consecrate the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus on June 11, 2026.
Consecration to the Sacred Heart of Jesus signals to God that His goodness is not forgotten and that our country relies on God’s providence for continued flourishing, bringing blessing and hope to a country suffering from wounds of division and an epidemic of loneliness.
Parishes across the country, including here in the Diocese of Venice, are asked to join in this consecration. Guidance in planning this celebration within a Mass can be found here. More about what consecrating the United States of American to the Sacred Heart of Jesus means and how it can bless our nation can be found here.
All Catholics are encouraged to join the United States bishops in praying for the unity and healing of our country. One opportunity for parishes and individuals to participate is by contributing to a collective 250 Hours of Adoration and 250 Works of Mercy. Guidance for how to participate in both can be found here.
A Novena to the Sacred Heart of Jesus will begin on June 3, 2026. It is asked that all the faithful in the Diocese of Venice join the U.S. Church in praying this Novena, which draws its daily devotions from the Litany of the Sacred Heart. The Novena, which will conclude with the Consecration on June 11, can be found here.
A Prayer to the Sacred Heart of Jesus is attached in English and Spanish. Additional resources from the USCCB regarding the 250th commemoration and celebration can be found here.
Consecration to the Sacred Heart of Jesus signals to God that His goodness is not forgotten and that our country relies on God’s providence for continued flourishing, bringing blessing and hope to a country suffering from wounds of division and an epidemic of loneliness.
Parishes across the country, including here in the Diocese of Venice, are asked to join in this consecration. Guidance in planning this celebration within a Mass can be found here. More about what consecrating the United States of American to the Sacred Heart of Jesus means and how it can bless our nation can be found here.
All Catholics are encouraged to join the United States bishops in praying for the unity and healing of our country. One opportunity for parishes and individuals to participate is by contributing to a collective 250 Hours of Adoration and 250 Works of Mercy. Guidance for how to participate in both can be found here.
A Novena to the Sacred Heart of Jesus will begin on June 3, 2026. It is asked that all the faithful in the Diocese of Venice join the U.S. Church in praying this Novena, which draws its daily devotions from the Litany of the Sacred Heart. The Novena, which will conclude with the Consecration on June 11, can be found here.
A Prayer to the Sacred Heart of Jesus is attached in English and Spanish. Additional resources from the USCCB regarding the 250th commemoration and celebration can be found here.
The Year of St. Francis
Bishop Frank J. Dewane has designated St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Grove City to serve as a pilgrimage destination for the Diocese of Venice in the extraordinary Jubilee Year of St. Francis, honoring St. Francis of Assisi on the 800th anniversary of his death. All are encouraged to make a pilgrimage to the Parish during this Jubilee Year for a unique experience of encounter, prayer and renewal. The Church and its Poor Clare Adoration Chapel are open to welcome pilgrims every Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and at other times by arrangement. Read an invitation from the Pastor of St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Rev. Cory Mayer, here.
Background
By decree of the Apostolic Penitentiary issued on January 10, 2026, at the request of Pope Leo XIV, the Church has solemnly proclaimed a special Year of St. Francis of Assisi, running from January 10, 2026, to January 10, 2027. This Jubilee Year commemorates the 800th anniversary of the passage into Heaven of Saint Francis of Assisi (1226), one of the most beloved saints in Christian history. The Papal Decree emphasizes the enduring relevance of St. Francis in today’s world. His radical Gospel life – marked by poverty, humility, peace, and love for creation – continues to speak powerfully to a humanity wounded by division, violence, and indifference. The Holy Father invites all the Faithful to rediscover Francis not merely as a gentle lover of nature, but as a man conformed to Christ Crucified, whose life was a living proclamation of the Gospel, and a model of Christ’s peace.
Bishop Frank J. Dewane has designated St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Grove City to serve as a pilgrimage destination for the Diocese of Venice in the extraordinary Jubilee Year of St. Francis, honoring St. Francis of Assisi on the 800th anniversary of his death. All are encouraged to make a pilgrimage to the Parish during this Jubilee Year for a unique experience of encounter, prayer and renewal. The Church and its Poor Clare Adoration Chapel are open to welcome pilgrims every Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and at other times by arrangement. Read an invitation from the Pastor of St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Rev. Cory Mayer, here.
Background
By decree of the Apostolic Penitentiary issued on January 10, 2026, at the request of Pope Leo XIV, the Church has solemnly proclaimed a special Year of St. Francis of Assisi, running from January 10, 2026, to January 10, 2027. This Jubilee Year commemorates the 800th anniversary of the passage into Heaven of Saint Francis of Assisi (1226), one of the most beloved saints in Christian history. The Papal Decree emphasizes the enduring relevance of St. Francis in today’s world. His radical Gospel life – marked by poverty, humility, peace, and love for creation – continues to speak powerfully to a humanity wounded by division, violence, and indifference. The Holy Father invites all the Faithful to rediscover Francis not merely as a gentle lover of nature, but as a man conformed to Christ Crucified, whose life was a living proclamation of the Gospel, and a model of Christ’s peace.
Pray for Priests Calendar - The Diocese of Venice is blessed to have 119 priests on official assignment in the Diocese. The Pray for Priests Calendar honors a priest each day with a designated day for prayer and gratitude; all priests in the Diocese are listed on at least one day during the year. If you do not see your priest listed this month, please check again next month! (Priests are honored daily throughout the year via alphabetical order.) Print your very own Pray for Priests Calendar here or download the calendar below:
For Parishes: 2027 Non-Parochial Collection Schedule - For planning purposes, all Parish offices please note that the 2027 Non-Parochial Collection Schedule is now available and attached below.
TV Mass time change for southern area - Please note that the Televised Sunday Mass for viewers in the southern counties of the Diocese (Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry, Lee counties) is now broadcast at 8:30 a.m. on WFTX-TV (FOX Florida). The change was beyond the control of the Diocese. Please check your cable provider for channel listings. The televised Mass is also always available online at dioceseofvenice.org or on YouTube. For more information contact Rachel Powers, 941-486-4716.
Bereavement Retreat – For Spanish-speaking parents grieving the death of a child, a weekend Bereavement Retreat will be offered in Spanish, May 15-17, 2026, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice, 3989 S. Moon Drive. Led by Deacon Roberto Landron and a team of grieving parents, this retreat offers a safe space to find comfort, peace, and healing through prayer and reflection. To register, click here. For more information contact Jim Gontis, (941) 486-4754.
Retiro de Duelo – Para padres de habla hispana que están atravesando el duelo por la muerte de un hijo, se ofrecerá un Retiro de Duelo de fin de semana en español, del 15 al 17 de mayo de 2026, en el Centro de Retiros Nuestra Señora del Perpetuo Socorro (Our Lady of Perpetual Help), ubicado en 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice. Dirigido por el Diácono Roberto Landron y un equipo de padres en duelo, este retiro ofrece un espacio seguro para encontrar consuelo, paz y sanación a través de la oración y la reflexión.Para inscribirse, haga clic aquí. Para más información, comuníquese con Jim Gontis, (941) 486-4754.
Retiro de Duelo – Para padres de habla hispana que están atravesando el duelo por la muerte de un hijo, se ofrecerá un Retiro de Duelo de fin de semana en español, del 15 al 17 de mayo de 2026, en el Centro de Retiros Nuestra Señora del Perpetuo Socorro (Our Lady of Perpetual Help), ubicado en 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice. Dirigido por el Diácono Roberto Landron y un equipo de padres en duelo, este retiro ofrece un espacio seguro para encontrar consuelo, paz y sanación a través de la oración y la reflexión.Para inscribirse, haga clic aquí. Para más información, comuníquese con Jim Gontis, (941) 486-4754.
Increased Spam and Phishing Activity – Please Be Vigilant - There is an increase in spam and phishing emails being delivered to mailboxes across the Diocese's Microsoft 365 email environment. These messages may appear to come from internal staff, Microsoft, SharePoint, or other trusted sources, and often include urgent language, links, or attachments.
Please take the following precautions:
If you have already clicked a link or entered information from a suspicious message, please contact the IT Helpdesk immediately, by phone (941-486-4740) or email here.
Please take the following precautions:
- Do not click links or open attachments from unexpected or suspicious emails.
- Verify the sender’s email address carefully—look for misspellings or unusual domains.
- Be cautious of messages requesting passwords, financial information, gift cards, or wiring funds.
- When in doubt, delete the message.
If you have already clicked a link or entered information from a suspicious message, please contact the IT Helpdesk immediately, by phone (941-486-4740) or email here.
For the nine months from the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord (March 25) to Christmas (December 25), all are invited to meditate on the mystery of the incarnation in a unique way. Nine months with Christ in the womb draws our attention to Jesus during the nine months he lived within Mary. In meditating on the mystery of Christ’s humility in the womb, a new appreciation for the dignity of our brothers and sisters is awakened. Click here to follow along!
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. The retreats are from 8:30 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. and the $60 registration fee includes all retreat materials and lunch. Registration is required. Couples unable to attend an in-person retreat may contact the Diocesan Marriage Prep office to register for the online version. Please contact Jim Gontis, (941) 486-4754.
- Two Become One Marriage Retreat (55 and older) - Couples 55 and older preparing for the Sacrament of Marriage or convalidation in the Catholic Church. The next Two Become One Marriage Retreat is on May 2 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center. Register now.
- Day of Reflection Marriage Retreat - A specially prepared volunteer team of married couples, and a priest, share their experiences and information, enabling couples to be more aware of the privileges and responsibilities of marriage. The next Marriage Retreat is scheduled for June 20 at St. John the Evangelist Parish in Naples. Register now.
Catholic Scouting Mass - The annual Catholic Scouting Mass and Recognition Luncheon with Bishop Frank J. Dewane will be held Sunday, May 17, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Light Parish, 19680 Cypress View Drive, Fort Myers. To register, click here. Deadline to register: May 4. For more information, please contact Andres Prias, 941-441-1122.
Theology on Tap, Thursday, May 21 - Calling all young adults! Join Catholic young people from across the Diocese for an evening of fellowship, faith and fun! Theology on Tap is an opportunity for young adults in their 20’s and 30’s to explore faith topics in a relaxed social setting. Theology on Tap meets on the third Thursday of every month at Oak & Stone, 5405 University Parkway, University Park. No need to register in advance. This month, the group will meet on Thursday, May 21, at 7:00 p.m. Featured speaker is Rev. Thomas Carzon, O.M.V. Pastor of San Pedro Parish, who will be leading a talk called, "Do whatever He tells you." To learn more, contact Andres Prias, 941-441-1122.
Totus Tuus Summer Missionaries - Applications are now open for college-age young adults to serve as Totus Tuus Missionaries for the 2026 Parish evangelization and catechesis Summer Program. This role involves traveling in teams to parishes throughout the Diocese, leading catechetical sessions for children and youth. Responsibilities include teaching the Catholic Faith using the Totus Tuus curriculum, facilitating activities, including skits and songs, working collaboratively, teaching about the Mass, leading in Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, and facilitating discussion groups. This is a paid position. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age, a high school graduate, and available for the required training period May 20–30, followed by weekly parish assignments through July 24, with a scheduled break from June 28–July 4. For more information contact Andres Prias, Diocesan Director of Youth & Young Adult Ministry, 941-441-1122.
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.
Applications are still open for two grants from the Catholic Community Foundation. To be considered by the Board of Directors for a grant, the project must clearly be aligned with the intention of the specific fund. Please see below for descriptions of the funds and note that deadline to apply is May 4, 2026.To apply for any Catholic Community Foundation grant, please click here.
The Marilyn Brummer Fund concentrates its efforts on working with entities that are involved in anti-human trafficking assistance, assistance for single mothers, and the Catholic Charities Children’s Center, which is dedicated to enhancing the lives of children in the Dunbar community in Fort Myers. Programs, projects, and entities must be located in, and associated with, the Diocese of Venice in Florida. All applications are due by May 4, 2026.
The Carey Family Grant was established to provide support for the most pressing needs within the Diocese of Venice in Florida. Catholic Parishes, Missions, Schools, Programs and Ministries within the Diocese of Venice, or a program or ministry of the Diocese of Venice, may submit grant applications to request support for critical needs that otherwise might go unfunded. All applications are due by May 4, 2026.
Mental Health Counseling Services - Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice is offering Mental Health Counseling, and Tele-Health Counseling, for adults and children provided by licensed mental health therapists. If you or someone you know is feeling stressed, anxious, depressed, helpless, or overwhelmed, Catholic Charities can help. For more information, please call 239-455-2655 or visit Catholic Charities online
To view all OLPH events, visit www.olph-retreat.org and click on Events, then Schedule of Events. Register online for all events.
Ignatian Preached Retreat at OLPH - This 3 Night silent retreat from May 8-11 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. Total cost is $525.00 per retreatant for a private room and $360.00 per retreatant for a shared room (retreatant to locate appropriate roommate where silence can be maintained).
Private Retreats at OLPH - Our spring schedule has openings for 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 the OLPH website.
Volunteers - Our Lady of Perpetual Help is in need of volunteers. Areas of need include reception, gardening, dishwashing, serving meals. Contact the office to sign up - 941-486-0233 or visit www.olph-retreat.org/new-volunteer
The Dignity of Every Human Life: New Adult Education Series - Every human life is sacred, from conception to natural death. Learn more about the critical importance of Respect Life issues in this new Adult Education Series presented by Community Pregnancy Clinics. The first session is April 29 at 6:30 p.m. and will be held at CPCI Naples, in the Clinic Education Room. Virtual participation is also available. For more information or to register visit the website, or contact Colleen Donohoe, 941-404-8675.
Charity Golf Tournament - The annual St. Mary Academy Golf Tournament has an 8:30 a.m. shotgun start May 16 at Heritage Harbour Golf Club, 8000 Stone Harbour Loop, Bradenton. The cost is $150 per player. Please call Connie Taft at 941-685-2108 to register or for sponsorship opportunities.
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.
"If you have faith the size of a mustard seed...nothing will be impossible for you."