May 8, 2026
Epiphany Cathedral’s New Church Bells to Receive Blessing
A special Blessing of the Bells ceremony will be held at Epiphany Cathedral, 310 Sarasota Street, Venice, on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. All are welcome to attend.
The unmistakable peal of church bells calls all to the celebration of the liturgy and to prayer. Bells alert us to important events in the life of the Church and the community: Mass, prayer, weddings, funerals. This is a historic moment not only for Epiphany’s Cathedral’s parishioners, but for the entire Diocese, as it marks a significant milestone in the renovation and rejuvenation of the Diocese’s Cathedral.
The four custom cast bronze church bells were crafted by Marinelli Pontifical Bell Foundry of Agnone, in Italy, the oldest bell foundry in the world. The Marinelli bells are well-known for their elegant form and distinctive, resonant sound, and will also be richly decorated with custom inscriptions and artistic reliefs. The bells will be installed in a new 75-foot bell tower at Epiphany Cathedral later this summer.
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Ascension Solemnity moved to Sunday, May 17
The Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord, Sunday, will be celebrated in the Diocese of Venice on May 17, 2026 (moved from May 14). The Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops voted in the year 2000 to transfer the Solemnity of the Ascension from the Thursday, 40 days after Easter, to the Seventh Sunday of Easter, in accord with an indult granted to the US. Conference of Catholic Bishops by the Holy See. Therefore, for the Catholic Churches in the State of Florida, the Seventh Sunday of Easter is replaced by the Solemnity of the Ascension.
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On May 20, the USCCB Committee on Pro-Life Activities will host a nationwide webinar for priests, deacons, and seminarians on practical tips for how to communicate mercy after abortion at the Parish level to foster hope for forgiveness, healing, and embracing new life in Christ. Bishop William Bryne, and Fr. Kevin Lenius will offer insights based on pastoral experience. Bishop Daniel Thomas, Chairman, USCCB Pro-life Committee, will offer the opening welcome and prayer. Additionally, Helen Evans will share her abortion healing testimony. All priests, deacons, seminarians, and deacon candidates are welcome, and encouraged to attend. Register for the webinar via the link below; the recording will be available to all registrants after the event. With questions, email Mary McClusky or Maria Zalot at the USCCB, or Tavia Ames, Director of Respect Life for the Diocese of Venice.
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.
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.
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.
- 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.
- 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 September 26 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center. 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. 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.
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.
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
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.
Pentecost Retreat, Fort Myers - The Church of the Resurrection of Our Lord Parish is hosting a one-day Pentecost Retreat, 9 a.m.-3:25 p.m., May 23, in the Parish Center, 8121 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers. The retreat, titled “Come Holy Spirit, Come Bless US with the Fire of Your Love,” will include a light breakfast and lunch. The retreat concludes in time for the Pentecost Vigil Mass at 3:30 p.m. There is no charge. Register by contacting Janet Almen at 708-525-4352.
Catholic Singles Event, Naples - The Catholic Fellowship Around Singles Ministry Presents is calling all Catholic singles in their 30s, 40s, and 50s, to a summer singles event, 6-8 p.m., May 23, at the St. Agnes parish Center Hall, 7775 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. The presentation titled, “Prolonged Singleness: Walking with God in the Wait,” will be offered by Father Alan Baldarelli. Dinner will be provided free of charge.
Worldwide Marriage Encounter, Tampa - Successful marriages don’t work on automatic pilot, like a garden, they require constant attention: fertilizing, watering, and weeding. Join the Worldwide Marriage Encounter and discover God’s plan for joy, romance and passion in your marriage June 5-7, at the Franciscan Center in Tampa. Apply today at www.wwme.org or call 813-270-7832.
Rummage Sale, Punta Gorda - The Sacred Heart Conference of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul is hosting its next Rummage Sale 8 a.m.-11 a.m., June 6, at 25200 Airport Road, Punta Gorda. Items available for purchase will include household items, furniture, linens, clothing, shoes, purses, jewelry, books and toys Proceeds will go toward the Society’s continuing efforts to raise money to assist those in need in the community. For more information, please call 941-575-0767.
Inter-Parish “Life in the Spirit” Seminar, Naples - St. William Parish, 750 Seagate Drive, Naples, is hosting an Inter-Parish “Life in the Spirit” seminar, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m., June 13, in the Blessed Mother Center. The seminar will be facilitated by representatives from St. William, St. Agnes, St. Ann and St. John the Evangelist Parishes. The seminar will include talks, discussion groups, and a prayer service for a greater outpouring of the Holy Spirit in your personal life. There will be music and fellowship, and a light lunch is included. RSVP by email and include your name and contact number to Susan Westly at susan@saintwilliam.org. Please include “Life in the Spirit Seminar” in the subject line. For additional details call 239-397-5757.
Pentecost Retreat, Fort Myers - The Church of the Resurrection of Our Lord Parish is hosting a one-day Pentecost Retreat, 9 a.m.-3:25 p.m., May 23, in the Parish Center, 8121 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers. The retreat, titled “Come Holy Spirit, Come Bless US with the Fire of Your Love,” will include a light breakfast and lunch. The retreat concludes in time for the Pentecost Vigil Mass at 3:30 p.m. There is no charge. Register by contacting Janet Almen at 708-525-4352.
Catholic Singles Event, Naples - The Catholic Fellowship Around Singles Ministry Presents is calling all Catholic singles in their 30s, 40s, and 50s, to a summer singles event, 6-8 p.m., May 23, at the St. Agnes parish Center Hall, 7775 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. The presentation titled, “Prolonged Singleness: Walking with God in the Wait,” will be offered by Father Alan Baldarelli. Dinner will be provided free of charge.
Worldwide Marriage Encounter, Tampa - Successful marriages don’t work on automatic pilot, like a garden, they require constant attention: fertilizing, watering, and weeding. Join the Worldwide Marriage Encounter and discover God’s plan for joy, romance and passion in your marriage June 5-7, at the Franciscan Center in Tampa. Apply today at www.wwme.org or call 813-270-7832.
Rummage Sale, Punta Gorda - The Sacred Heart Conference of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul is hosting its next Rummage Sale 8 a.m.-11 a.m., June 6, at 25200 Airport Road, Punta Gorda. Items available for purchase will include household items, furniture, linens, clothing, shoes, purses, jewelry, books and toys Proceeds will go toward the Society’s continuing efforts to raise money to assist those in need in the community. For more information, please call 941-575-0767.
Inter-Parish “Life in the Spirit” Seminar, Naples - St. William Parish, 750 Seagate Drive, Naples, is hosting an Inter-Parish “Life in the Spirit” seminar, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m., June 13, in the Blessed Mother Center. The seminar will be facilitated by representatives from St. William, St. Agnes, St. Ann and St. John the Evangelist Parishes. The seminar will include talks, discussion groups, and a prayer service for a greater outpouring of the Holy Spirit in your personal life. There will be music and fellowship, and a light lunch is included. RSVP by email and include your name and contact number to Susan Westly at susan@saintwilliam.org. Please include “Life in the Spirit Seminar” in the subject line. For additional details call 239-397-5757.
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."