May 22, 2026
Welcome Bishop-elect Biosca Agüero, OFM Cap.!
A Statement from Bishop Frank J. Dewane on the appointment of the new Shepherd for the Diocese of Venice in Florida
May 13, 2026
My dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
It is with gratitude to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, that I announce in the Diocese of Venice in Florida, that Our Holy Father, following prayerful discernment is appointing a new Shepherd for the Diocese of Venice in Florida: Bishop-elect Emilio Biosca Agüero, OFM Cap., a priest ordained on May 21, 1994 for the Capuchin Franciscan Province of St. Augustine (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania). Having served in assignments for the Province, both overseas and within the United States, Bishop-elect has for the past seven years been the Pastor at the Shrine of the Sacred Heart Parish in Washington, D.C and has held numerous leadership positions within his Religious Community. Son of an immigrant family with 7 children, Bishop-elect is enthusiastic, with a strong pastoral spirit and particular devotion to the Virgin Mary and to serving the People of God. With all of you, I welcome him to our Diocesan family, which will be greatly blessed by his ministry, and I very much look forward to getting to know him as in just a few days he has shown himself to be a deeply spiritual and exceptional priest.
Our new Bishop is coming to a Diocese that is growing at a rapid pace with families and individuals that evidence a vibrant faith and diverse backgrounds. It has been a great joy for me to have ministered here for the past twenty years. I am pleased and very proud of the Catholic Community of the Diocese, who they are and who they are becoming, by their witness to Christ. This has become possible by the great pastoral care and service that the priests, both Diocesan and Religious, have provided.
In accord with canon law, I submitted my resignation to the Pope over a year ago on my seventy-fifth birthday, and, with the appointment of Bishop-elect Agüero, it is now formally accepted. As I retire, it is my plan to remain in the Diocese of Venice, which has become my home as it has for so many others from the Midwest. I can assure Bishop Emilio that he will not see occasional snowfall, just an occasional hurricane or two.
To the Priests, Deacons, and joy-filled laity, thank you all for being a wonderful family of faith, hope, and love. I look forward to my continued home here assisting the new Bishop pastorally, in any manner I can. I also look forward to more time for prayer, study and travel.
As of today, I am officially the Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Venice in Florida and have been appointed its Apostolic Administrator until the day of Bishop-elect Agüero’s ordination which will take place on July 11, 2026.
Sincerely Yours in Christ,
+ Frank J. Dewane
Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Venice in Florida
For more information on Bishop-elect Emilio Biosca Agüero, OFM Cap. click here.
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Intentions, For Parishes: It is asked that Bishop-elect Emilio Biosca Agüero be added to intentions in all Masses. Let us pray for the Bishop-elect as he prepares to assume leadership of the Diocese of Venice, that he may be provided with the wisdom and strength needed to govern wisely, and to lead the clergy and the faithful in becoming closer to the Lord. May God protect and guide him. Amen.
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Reminder: Consecrating the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus
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. 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.
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.
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 linked below, in English and Spanish. Additional resources from the USCCB regarding the 250th commemoration and celebration can be found here.
Prayer to the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Oración al Sagrado Corazón de Jesús en español
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: No Political Ads - A reminder that Parishes should not accept political advertising of any kind nor promote candidates for any office, including for local elections. This policy includes ads placed in Parish Bulletins, campaign lawn signs, etc. Thank you!
Pray for Safety! Hurricane Season is here - The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 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."
To view or download a Prayer for Safety in Hurricane Season in English or Spanish, visit the Diocese of Venice website.
To view or download a Prayer for Safety in Hurricane Season in English or Spanish, visit the Diocese of Venice website.
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.
Totus Tuus Parish Catechetical Summer Camps!
For Grades 1 - 12
May 20 - 30
Missionary Leadership Training (for camp counselors)
May 31 - June 5
St. Frances Cabrini Parish, Parrish
St. Finbarr Parish, Naples
June 7-12
June 7-12
Epiphany Cathedral Parish, Venice
St. Paul Parish, Arcadia
Ave Maria Parish, Ave Maria
June 14-19
June 14-19
St. Agnes Parish, Naples
San Pedro Parish, North Port
St. Michael Parish, Wauchula
St. Leo the Great Parish, Bonita Springs
June 21-26
St. Leo the Great Parish, Bonita Springs
June 21-26
St. Katharine Drexel Parish, Cape Coral
Sacred Heart Parish, Bradenton
June 28- July 4: BREAK, NO CAMP
July 5-10
St. James Parish, Lake Placid
St. Catherine Parish, Sebring
Our Lady of Grace Parish, Avon Park
Our Lady Queen of Heaven Parish, LaBelle
July 12-17
Our Lady of Grace Parish, Avon Park
Our Lady Queen of Heaven Parish, LaBelle
July 12-17
St. Joseph Parish, Bradenton
Our Lady of Light Parish (Day Session)/ St. John XXIII Parish, Fort Myers (Evening Session)
July 19-24
July 19-24
Our Lady of the Angels Parish, Lakewood Ranch
St. Jude Parish, Sarasota
Sign up at the Parish! For more information, contact
Andres Prias, 941-441-1122
Theology on Tap, Thursday, June 18 - 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, June 18, at 7:00 p.m. Featured speaker is Chris Root, CEO of Catholic Charities, who will be leading a talk called, "Encountering Christ Through Service to Others." To learn more, contact Andres Prias, 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.
Join Us in Making a Difference. Volunteer! - Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice helps solve the problems of those in need – non-Catholics and Catholics alike.
The neglected child, the homeless family, and the hungry senior are among those for whom we provide help and create hope. You can do your part too, by volunteering to work with one of our programs, located throughout Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, Lee, Hendry, Glades, Collier, Desoto, Hardee, and Highlands counties. Sign up today HERE.
The neglected child, the homeless family, and the hungry senior are among those for whom we provide help and create hope. You can do your part too, by volunteering to work with one of our programs, located throughout Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, Lee, Hendry, Glades, Collier, Desoto, Hardee, and Highlands counties. Sign up today HERE.
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.
Retreat Center Open House - Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice is inviting the faithful to join them for a day of prayer, rest, renewal, and fellowship for an Open House, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., June 27, 2026, the Feast of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. Come spend time exploring the peaceful grounds, touring the facilities, meeting the team, and learning more about the retreats and programs offered at the Center. Whether you have visited many times or have never been before, the OLPH team would love to welcome you. OLPH is located at 3989 S. Moon Dr., in Venice. Please RSVP by June 20, by calling 941-486-0233.
Request a Mass - The practice of requesting a Mass to be offered for the needs of a specific person, for a special intention, or in thanksgiving is a wonderful part of Catholic tradition. To have a Mass celebrated for a special occasion, on behalf of a family member/friend, or a deceased loved one the donation amount is $10.00 per Mass. Please complete the online form to register your intention.
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
Pregnancy Center Open House - The North River Care Pregnancy Center, 1020 10 Ave. W., Unit 100, Palmetto, will be hosting an open house of its facilities from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., May 28. The public is encouraged to tour the space and meet the team and learn how North River Care supports women and families in the community, as called for by the United States Catholic Bishops’ Walking with Moms in Need program. Whether you are curious, passionate about the Respect Life mission, or looking to join the board or volunteer, this is a wonderful opportunity to learn more and connect. Please RSVP by calling 941-729-9004.
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.
Adult Education Workshop - Community Pregnancy Clinics will offer its monthly Created for Greatness Adult Education Series at 6:30 p.m., June 10, at the Naples Clinic, 661 Goodlette-Frank Road. The June topic is "Stories of Grace: An Evening of Adoption Testimonies." Whether you are curious, considering adoption, or simply open-hearted, you are welcome to come hear the powerful true stories of families whose lives have been transformed through the gift of adoption. All are welcome! Please invite your friends and neighbors! RSVP at https://form.typeform.com/to/c8P0DxtD.
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 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 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."