July 10, 2026
Pope Leo XIV sends message to young people gathered in Ankawa, in the Archeparchy of Erbil, for their annual Youth Meeting July 8 – 11, 2026.
To view the Pope’s message to youth, click here.
To view the Pope’s message to youth, click here.
After consultation, Bishop Frank J. Dewane announces the following appointments:
Reverend Joseph Doherty, as Parochial Vicar of Epiphany Cathedral in Venice, effective July 8, 2026, as he has returned from his Licentiate Studies in Dogmatic and Fundamental Theology at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas in Rome.
Reverend Nicholas Eichman, FSSP, is relieved of his duties as Parochial Vicar of Christ the King in Sarasota, effective July 1, 2026, and thus has returned to his Religious Community.
Reverend Andrew Daniels, FSSP, is appointed as Parochial Vicar of Christ the King Parish in Sarasota, effective July 6, 2026.
Reverend Joseph Duffy, FSSP, is relieved of his duties as Parochial Vicar of Corpus Christi Chapel in Naples, effective July 1, 2026, and thus has returned to his Religious Community.
Reverend Peter O’Connor, FSSP, is appointed as Parochial Vicar of Corpus Christi Chapel in Naples, effective July 8, 2026.
Reverend Reji Joseph, OSFS, is relieved of his duties as Parochial Vicar of St. Ann Parish in Naples, effective July 1, 2026, and thus has returned to his Religious Community.
Reverend Joseph Doherty, as Parochial Vicar of Epiphany Cathedral in Venice, effective July 8, 2026, as he has returned from his Licentiate Studies in Dogmatic and Fundamental Theology at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas in Rome.
Reverend Nicholas Eichman, FSSP, is relieved of his duties as Parochial Vicar of Christ the King in Sarasota, effective July 1, 2026, and thus has returned to his Religious Community.
Reverend Andrew Daniels, FSSP, is appointed as Parochial Vicar of Christ the King Parish in Sarasota, effective July 6, 2026.
Reverend Joseph Duffy, FSSP, is relieved of his duties as Parochial Vicar of Corpus Christi Chapel in Naples, effective July 1, 2026, and thus has returned to his Religious Community.
Reverend Peter O’Connor, FSSP, is appointed as Parochial Vicar of Corpus Christi Chapel in Naples, effective July 8, 2026.
Reverend Reji Joseph, OSFS, is relieved of his duties as Parochial Vicar of St. Ann Parish in Naples, effective July 1, 2026, and thus has returned to his Religious Community.
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A Farewell Letter from Bishop Frank J. Dewane
July 10, 2026
My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
As my time as Bishop of the Diocese of Venice comes to a close, I wish to take this opportunity to thank all of you for your prayers and support during my tenure as your Bishop.
To the Priests, Deacons, and Religious serving in the Diocese, I express my gratitude for your dedication to serving the People of God and for your assistance in carrying out my ministry. Looking back on my twenty years as Bishop, so much has been accomplished that would not have been possible without all of you!
The witness and support of the lay Faithful, especially through your contributions of time, talent, and treasure, has helped this Diocese to grow and become a community of vibrant faith. Indeed, I am pleased and very proud of the Catholic Faithful of the beautiful Diocese of Venice.
During my time as Bishop, we have weathered many challenges, including a number of significant hurricanes, as well as issues of political, theological or administrative nature. These have not always been easy, but thanks to your prayers and support, we have been able to overcome these trials. In addressing these matters, offense was never my intention, and my utmost priorities have been fidelity to Divine Revelation, the teachings of the Church, and on the good of all.
After twenty years, Southwest Florida is now my home, and I intend to remain in the area. All of the people of the Diocese will continue to be in my prayers, and I will assist our new Bishop however I am able. Thank you all for being a wonderful community of faith, hope and love.
Know that the Diocese is in good hands as we welcome Bishop Emilio. Please join me in praying for our new Shepherd as he begins his Episcopal ministry.
This opportunity is taken to extend to you the assurances of my continued consideration, as well as my prayers for you and your family.
My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
As my time as Bishop of the Diocese of Venice comes to a close, I wish to take this opportunity to thank all of you for your prayers and support during my tenure as your Bishop.
To the Priests, Deacons, and Religious serving in the Diocese, I express my gratitude for your dedication to serving the People of God and for your assistance in carrying out my ministry. Looking back on my twenty years as Bishop, so much has been accomplished that would not have been possible without all of you!
The witness and support of the lay Faithful, especially through your contributions of time, talent, and treasure, has helped this Diocese to grow and become a community of vibrant faith. Indeed, I am pleased and very proud of the Catholic Faithful of the beautiful Diocese of Venice.
During my time as Bishop, we have weathered many challenges, including a number of significant hurricanes, as well as issues of political, theological or administrative nature. These have not always been easy, but thanks to your prayers and support, we have been able to overcome these trials. In addressing these matters, offense was never my intention, and my utmost priorities have been fidelity to Divine Revelation, the teachings of the Church, and on the good of all.
After twenty years, Southwest Florida is now my home, and I intend to remain in the area. All of the people of the Diocese will continue to be in my prayers, and I will assist our new Bishop however I am able. Thank you all for being a wonderful community of faith, hope and love.
Know that the Diocese is in good hands as we welcome Bishop Emilio. Please join me in praying for our new Shepherd as he begins his Episcopal ministry.
This opportunity is taken to extend to you the assurances of my continued consideration, as well as my prayers for you and your family.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
+ Frank J. Dewane
Apostolic Administrator of the
Diocese of Venice in Florida
The Ordination and Installation Mass of Bishop Emilio Biosca Agüero, O.F.M. Cap., will be celebrated at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, July 11, at St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers. Out of necessity, due to high demand and capacity constraints, this event is by Invitation Only.
Solemn Vespers, the evening prior, is open seating and does not require a ticket. All are welcome but seating is limited and will reach capacity quickly so please plan to arrive early.
All are called to be part of this historic moment for the Diocese of Venice. If you are unable to attend in person, please join us via livestream. Both the Ordination Mass on July 11 and the Solemn Vespers, Friday, July 10, will be livestreamed via the Diocesan website or on Facebook.
Please join us in prayer as we welcome Bishop Emilio to the Diocese of Venice!
For more information on Bishop Emilio Biosca Agüero, O.F.M. Cap., click here.
Solemn Vespers, the evening prior, is open seating and does not require a ticket. All are welcome but seating is limited and will reach capacity quickly so please plan to arrive early.
All are called to be part of this historic moment for the Diocese of Venice. If you are unable to attend in person, please join us via livestream. Both the Ordination Mass on July 11 and the Solemn Vespers, Friday, July 10, will be livestreamed via the Diocesan website or on Facebook.
Please join us in prayer as we welcome Bishop Emilio to the Diocese of Venice!
For more information on Bishop Emilio Biosca Agüero, O.F.M. Cap., click 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.
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.
Holiday Bereavement Outreach Retreats – Those grieving the loss of a loved one are invited to “There Is Hope: Coping with the Death of a Loved One During the Holidays", a Catholic bereavement retreat led by Deacon Henry deMena and offered at four locations throughout the Diocese of Venice on November 3-6, 2026. For more information, please contact Jim Gontis at (941) 486-4754.
Parish Team Bereavement Training – Parish bereavement teams and volunteers are invited to attend a bereavement outreach training with Deacon Henry deMena on November 2, 2026, at the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice. For more information, please contact Jim Gontis at (941) 486-4754.
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!
2026 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 September 12 at St. John the Evangelist Parish in Naples and November 7 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center. 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.
- Hispanic Marriage Preparation Retreats - Spanish-speaking Marriage Preparation Retreats are available for engaged couples preparing for Sacramental Marriage and provide essential faith-based formation and guidance. The next Hispanic Marriage Retreats are August 1 and October 31 at St. Jude Parish, 3930 17th St., Sarasota. For more information, please contact Jim Gontis or (941) 486-4754.
2027 Marriage Preparation Retreat Schedules – The Office of Marriage and Family Life is pleased to announce the finalized schedule of Marriage Preparation Retreats for 2027. These required retreats are available for couples preparing for the Sacrament of Marriage and provide significant formation and guidance.
For more information, please contact Jim Gontis or (941) 486-4754.
Totus Tuus Parish Catechetical Summer Camps! For Grades 1 - 12
Remaining camp opportunities include:
- 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: 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, July 16 - 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, July 16, at 7:00 p.m. Featured speaker is Dr. David Tomasic, OFS, DRE of Epiphany Cathedral Catholic Church who will be leading a talk called, "The Eucharist Commits Us to the Poor: A Reflection of Secular Franciscan Spirituality." 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.
Summertime and the Giving is Easy Appeal - Every day, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, serves the most vulnerable population in the Diocese’s 10 counties by feeding, housing, empowering, and helping all in need. This summer, you can be the one that makes a difference. Your acts of kindness have the power to transform lives. The Catholic Charities “Summertime and the Giving is Easy" appeal needs your support. The giving is easy! To donate to “Summertime and the Giving is Easy," visit Summertime Giving, or mail a check to Catholic Charities, “Summertime and the Giving is Easy,” 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34285. If you have any questions, please call 941-488-5581. The appeal continues through August.
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.
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
Naples Young Adults Wine & Cheese Tasting + Social - This is a free event designed to build community, encourage connection, and invite young adults more deeply into parish life. Saturday, July 18 after the 5:00 p.m. Mass at St. John the Evangelist Pulte Center, 625 111th Avenue North, Naples.
Summer Singles Potluck in Naples - Catholic singles in their 30s, 40s, and 50s are invited to a Summer Singles Potluck featuring Fr. Marco Mascia of St. William Parish speaking on “Prolonged Singleness: Walking with God in the Wait” on Saturday, July 25, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at St. William Parish, Blessed Mother Center, Room 103, 750 Seagate Drive, Naples. For more information, please contact Jim Gontis, gontis@dioceseofvenice.org, (941) 486-4754.
Abortion is Not Healthcare: Refuting the Lies of the Abortion Industry with Advances in Fetal Medical Breakthroughs - Join Dr. William Lile, Pro Life Doctor virtually on Wednesday, August 12 from 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm as he shares his wealth of knowledge to refute the lies of the abortion industry. RSVP here.
She Shall Be Called Woman Weekly Series in Naples - Beginning on Tuesday, September 15, the first of a series titled, "Masterpiece of Creation," will be held at St. John the Evangelist, 625 111th Avenue North, Naples, in the Nazareth Room. A morning session is from 9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. and the evening session is 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. This series is open to all women at no charge and includes fellowship, a video presentation, and meaningful small-group discussion. Through engaging conversations, authentic speakers, and enriching prayer experiences, participants gain deeper insight into Sacred Scripture, theological truths, and practical wisdom for daily life. Registration is now open
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."