Diocese of Venice Crest

 

The Diocese of Venice in Florida

The Mustard Seed

January 10, 2020 


Office of the Bishop
After consultation, Bishop Frank J. Dewane announces the following:

Reverend Savari Muthu Anbarasu, MOC, as Parochial Vicar of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish/Soup Kitchen, Immokolee, effective, December 6, 2019.
 
Reverend Thomas Heck, retired as Pastor of St. Therese Parish, North Fort Myers, effective February 3, 2020.
 
Reverend Jan Antonik, as Administrator of St. Therese Parish, North Fort Myers, effective February 3, 2020, at the same time he is relieved of his duties as Parochial Vicar of St. Andrew Parish, Cape Coral.
 
Pope Francis Prayer Intention for January - We pray that Christians, followers of other religions, and all people of goodwill may promote peace and justice in the world.

Collection for the Church in Latin America and Caribbean - The Church in the regions of Latin America and Caribbean face many challenges in living out their Faith, and over the years the United States Catholic Bishops have helped many of these countries facilitate new programs and assist with these challenges. This collection takes place the weekend of January 18 and 19 in Diocese of Venice parishes. Please CLICK HERE for a letter from Bishop Dewane.)

2020 Catechetical Day - All Catechists, Catechetical Leaders, Youth Ministers, and Catholic school teachers are invited to Catechetical Day. A continental breakfast will be served at 8:00 a.m. with opening prayer promptly at 8:30 a.m., Saturday, January 25, at Bishop Verot Catholic High School, 5598 Sunrise Drive, Fort Myers. Featured speakers are Dr. Edward Sri, Dr. Petroc Willey, and Jose Gonzalez. Tickets are $20 and include lunch. Contact your Parish to find out if the cost is covered. You will not want to miss this event! Register today at
https://dioceseofvenice.regfox.com/sophia-institute-presents-catechetical-day-2020-.

Mass for Widows and Widowers - Bishop Frank J. Dewane will celebrate a Mass for all widows and widowers beginning at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, January 26 at St. John the Evangelist Parish, 625 111th North Avenue, Naples. Dinner will follow in the Parish Hall. A display of photos will be available for viewing during the reception. Should you wish to send a photo of you with your deceased spouse, email ardy@dioceseofvenice.org, or send a copy in advance to Diocese of Venice, ATTN: Widows and Widowers Mass, 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, Florida 34285. There is no cost to attend. Registration is required to plan for food. To register visit https://dioceseofvenice.regfox.com/mass-ww-2020. (CLICK HERE for the flier.) For more details contact Gail at 941-484-9543 or ardy@dioceseofvenice.org.

Bishop Invites Couples Celebrating Marriage - All couples celebrating 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, or more years of marriage are invited by Bishop Frank J. Dewane to an Anniversary Mass in their honor. The Mass honoring significant anniversaries will be celebrated in two locations: 11:00 a.m., Saturday, February 1 at Epiphany Cathedral, 310 Sarasota Street, Venice, and 11:00 a.m., Saturday, February 29 at St. Leo the Great Parish, 28290 Beaumont Road, Bonita Springs.

2020 Men's Conference - The Diocese of Venice Men's Conference is coming!  Enjoy spiritual fellowship with some grit, a burger fest, food trucks, and outdoor games! The event is from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 8 at Bishop Verot Catholic High School, 5598 Sunrise Drive, Fort Myers. The speakers this year are Mark Hart, Chris Padgett and Father Donald Calloway, MIC. The day will also include the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, Eucharistic Adoration and the opportunity to participate in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Cost in advance is $20 (pre-registration online), students $5 pre-registration. To register, please visit https://dioceseofvenice.regfox.com/2020-mens-conference. Cost at the door is $30, and $10 for students. Come to be filled and transformed with the fire of God's love! (CLICK HERE for the flier).  For your convenience please use this link for a Men's Conference promotional video to be used on websites and all social media pages https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cCo-ogyLsKE&t=46s.

2020 Women's Conference - Attention women of all ages!  Please mark your calendars for the Diocese of Venice Women's Conference! This year's event will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Saturday, February 22, at Bishop Verot Catholic High School, 5598 Sunrise Drive, Fort Myers. We are blessed to offer the exciting opportunity to listen to speakers Jimmy Mitchell, Mary Bielski and the Sisters of Life. The day will also include Eucharistic Adoration, the opportunity to participate in the Sacrament of Reconciliation and will conclude with the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass celebrated by Bishop Frank J. Dewane. Cost in advance is $20 (pre-registration online), students $5 pre-registration. Cost at the door is $30, and $10 for students. Come receive your blessing! To register, please visit https://dioceseofvenice.regfox.com/2020-womens-conference. (CLICK HERE for the flier). For your convenience, please use this link for a Women's Conference promotional video to be used on websites and all social media pages: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FuBvt4cicw4&t=92s.

'A Disciple of Christ' Campaign - Continuing into 2020, and to celebrate the 35th Anniversary of the Diocese of Venice, Most Rev Frank J. Dewane has launched a campaign for all to become "A Disciple of Christ." The campaign has run through the Liturgical Seasons of Advent and Christmas, and continues through a portion of Ordinary Time, Lent, Easter, and concludes with Pentecost. Attached is a second letter from Bishop Frank J. Dewane regarding the Campaign. (CLICK HERE  for the letter in English or CLICK HERE for the letter in Spanish.) Disciple of Christ prayer cards are also available in both languages by contacting Gail Ardy at ardy@dioceseofvenice.org.

Communications Department
Civilize It: Dignity Beyond the Debate - As Catholics, we have a long tradition of engagement in the political process as a means of putting our faith into action. We are called to bring the best of ourselves and our faith to the public square -- and yet today, many shy away from such involvement because our national and local conversations are filled with vitriol and harsh language.  When personal attacks replace honest debate, no one wins. We must bear witness to a better way. You are invited to join the Civilize It! campaign launched by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), to promote civility, model love for neighbor, and build community. The date of the program's introduction is significant because it is precisely one year from the general election. Visit www.civilizeit.org to take a pledge as an individual, family, or community to honor human dignity through civil conversation.

Prayer to Mother Cabrini, the Patron Saint of Immigrants - The prayer below was written by a Dreamer at Cabrini University. Please publish this prayer in your bulletins as a reminder for the Faithful to continue to pray for Dreamers.

Mother Cabrini, Patron of Immigrants, who came to help those like me, who abandoned everything we knew. We left country, family, and friends to find a safer place. You embraced the freedom of America and I embrace it now. Sometimes, I'm afraid, anxious, and overwhelmed. I may be criticized, ridiculed, and misunderstood because I look, speak, and act differently. Yet, your love for all, especially the poor and the refugee, is my guiding light. It gives me hope. And I offer the prayer now, that you so boldly prayed then, "Dear God, fortify me with the grace of your Holy Spirit and give your peace to my soul." Amen.

This prayer card was created by the Catholic Legal Immigration Network. To learn more about supporting immigrants, visit www.cliniclegal.org.

"Witnessing Faith with Bishop Dewane" - Join Most Reverend Frank J. Dewane, Bishop of the Diocese of Venice, for his monthly radio program on Relevant Radio. "Witnessing Faith with Bishop Dewane" can be heard at 8:30 a.m., Friday, January 31, on 1660 AM in Naples as well as 1410 AM and 106.7 FM in Fort Myers. Listen anywhere online at https://dioceseofvenice.org/our-bishop/relevant-radio-podcasts/. The program airs on the last Friday of each month.

Respect Life
Project Rachel Post-Abortion Reconciliation and Healing Retreat (Spanish) - Please include information about the February 15 Project Rachel one-day retreat in Spanish as many times as possible in your upcoming bulletins. (CLICK HERE for a quarter page ad.) For other sizes, contact Sylvia Jimenez at 941-412-5860 or project.rachel@dioceseofvenice.org.

Project Rachel Post-Abortion Reconciliation and Healing (English) - Please include a Project Rachel ad in your bulletins whenever space is available. Retreats are scheduled as needed. (CLICK HERE for English quarter page ad.)  For more details visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/offices/offices-departments/respect-life/post-abortion-help/. Tear-off ads are available for display, particularly in restrooms (for both women and men) by contacting Sylvia at 941-412-5860.

Unplanned Movie -The offer for a free license to show the movie UNPLANNED in parishes expires this month. Please contact Jeanne at Berdeaux@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-374-1068 for a one-year unlimited use license to be paid by the Respect Life Office or for a DVD to preview.

Office of Missions
Mission Immokalee - Registration Required - The very popular Mission Immokalee trip registration for high school students will open on February 1. Students will work on service projects from June 8 -12, with Catholic Charities of Collier and Lee Counties, Guadalupe Social Services and the Coalition of Immokalee Workers. The mission trip is $199 and includes meals, lodging and transportation to work sites. For more information contact the Diocese of Venice Mission Office at 239-241-2233. Registration is through Youth Ministers at Parishes and Schools.

Education
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 trained in Safe Environment. For further information, visit the Diocesan website at www.dioceseofvenice.org/safeenvironment. Report any abuse against minors to the Florida Department of Children and Families at 800-962-2873. To report abuse by Diocesan personnel or volunteers also notify the Diocesan Victims Assistance Coordinator, Susan Benton, at 941-416-6114. Please visit the Diocese of Venice website for scheduled training dates. (BULLETIN EDITORS: Please publish above text in parish bulletins.)

BULLETIN ANNOUNCEMENTS
Respect Life  
Sarasota Prayer Walk for Life - Please join Bishop Frank J. Dewane for Mass and a Prayer Walk for Life at 8:30 a.m., Tuesday, January 21, at St. Martha Parish, 200 N. Orange St., Sarasota. Following the Mass, participants can take a shuttle or walk to Planned Parenthood on Central Avenue for the Prayer Vigil. Please contact Jeanne at Berdeaux@dioceseofvenice.org. (CLICK HERE
for full page flier or CLICK HERE for quarter page flier.)

9 Days for Life - How do we live out the message of Christmas in the new year, rather than pack it away with the ornaments? The U. S. Catholic Bishops invite you to join thousands of Catholics nationwide for 9 Days of Prayer for Life, a novena from January 21-29 for the protection of human life. Each day's intention is accompanied by a short reflection and suggested actions to help build a Culture of Life. You can receive daily pro-life prayers via e-mail or on your phone via text. For further information, visit www.9daysforlife.com or contact Jeanne Berdeaux at Berdeaux@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-374-1068. (See www.9daysforlife.com for graphics you can use in your bulletins).

Evangelization
Learning Scripture is Easy - Dr. Edward Sri from the Augustine Institute will be giving two talks on Scripture that are practical to your everyday life! These talks include the family, prayer, real holiness, and even an explanation on the Mass!  Want to learn why Mass is set up the way it is?  Come join one of these FREE talks on Friday January 24. The first is at 2:30 p.m., at St. John the Evangelist Parish, 625 111th Ave. N., Naples, and the second is at 7:00 p.m., at Our Lady of the Angels Parish, 12505 E. State Road 70, Lakewood Ranch. For more information, please call 941-484-9543, email evangelization@dioceseofvenice.org, or visit www.dioceseofvenice.org/calendar. (CLICK HERE for a flier.)

English Catholic Charismatic Renewal Annual Conference - Come join the 2020 Diocese of Venice English Catholic Charismatic Renewal Conference, "Stir into Flame".  The conference is being held from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Friday, March 13, and 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Saturday, March 14, at St. John XXIII Parish, 13060 Palomino Lane, Fort Myers. Please join us for a day of praise and worship, healing prayer, and Eucharistic Adoration. Listen to internationally renowned speakers including Jim Murphy, Sister Linda Koontz, SNJM, Father Anthony Lukka, and Auxiliary Bishop Peter L. Smith of the Archdiocese of Portland. Bishop Frank J. Dewane will celebrate Mass at 3:30 p.m., on March 14.  Speakers will present talks about living in the Holy Spirit with courage, power, love, self-control, giving testimony to the Lord and becoming a true Disciple of Christ. The cost is $35 before Saturday, February 29, and $40 afterwards. Please register at www.dvccr.org. Registrations are limited. No walk-ins. (CLICK HERE for a full page flier or CLICK HERE for a half page flier.)

Office of Family Life
To Trust Again Workshop - A Marriage Preparation workshop will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 18, at Our Lady of Lourdes Education Building, 1301 Center Road, Venice. This workshop is for couples who have been previously married or are over 55 years of age not going through the Witness to Love program. To register visit www.dioceseofvenice.org/marriageprep and click on Marriage Preparation Classes. For more information call 941-484-9543.

Catholic Charities
Christmas Appeal - The annual Catholic Charities Christmas Appeal occurs now through January. The goal is to raise $565,000 and your gifts are much appreciated! The Catholic Charities Christmas Appeal is the agency's largest fundraiser and critical to operating the social service organization. Your donation will benefit Catholic Charities programs and services available throughout Southwest Florida that assist individuals, families, and seniors all year long. Thank you for your giving spirit! To donate please visit www.catholiccharitiesdov.org or mail a donation to Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., 5824 Bee Ridge Road PMB 409, Sarasota, FL 34233-5065.

Sugar Bowl Show of Shows North Port - Come support the Sugar Bowl Fund of Catholic Charities and the Knights of Columbus at the Sugar Bowl Show of Shows, beginning at 7:00 p.m., Saturday, January 25, at the North Port Performing Arts Center, 6400 W. Price Blvd. The event will feature the Goldtones performing oldies and doo-wop music. The Sugar Bowl Fund assists families in the community who are experiencing a financial hardship. Tickets are $20 or $25 a person and can be purchased at www.catholiccharitiesdov.org.

Sarasota Charity Ball - All are invited to the Catholic Charities Ball beginning at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 8, at The Ritz-Carlton in Sarasota. All proceeds will benefit the programs and services of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc. in Sarasota and Manatee counties. These programs include: Our Mother's House, St. Martha's Early Learning Center, Bethesda House, Catholic Charities Family Haven, housing counseling and foreclosure prevention, financial assistance, senior services, professional counseling, refugee services, and immigration services. The evening will include a cocktail hour, auctions, dinner, and dancing. The special guest speaker is Tim Tebow. Tickets are $300 a person. For tickets visit www.catholiccharitiesdov.org or call 941-355-4680 or email mya.widmyer@catholiccharitiesdov.org.

Boots and Bandanas Dinner Dance - Kick up your heels for a good cause! The Boots and Bandannas Dinner Dance will be held at 6:00 p.m., Saturday, February 15. at the Kingsway Country Club, 13625 SW Kingsway Circle, Lake Suzy. All proceeds will benefit the programs and services of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc. in DeSoto County which include immigration and family reunification services, prevention and support services along with after-school enrichment, educational and wellness activities for children, adults and seniors. Catholic Charities also provides affordable housing for farm worker families and seniors. The evening will include a cocktail hour, auctions, dinner and dancing to live country music by the Kollections. Tickets are $75 a person. For information email desotoadmin.assistant@catholiccharitiesdov.org, or call 863-494-1068.

Bethesda House Mardis Gras Madness - Let the Good times roll! The Bethesda House Mardi Gras Madness will be held on at 6:00 p.m., Saturday, February 22, at Art Ovation, 1255 N. Palm Ave. Sarasota. All proceeds benefit Bethesda House, a program of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc. which provides professional and compassionate support services for individuals living with HIV/AIDS. The evening will include a cocktail hour, auctions, Mardi Gras festivities, dinner and dancing. Tickets are $150. For information and tickets call 941-355-4680, ext. 301 or email mya.widmyer@catholiccharitiesdov.org.

Our Mothers House Wine Tasting and Dinner Dance - Helping homeless mothers and children! The Our Mother's House Wine Tasting and Dinner Dance will be held at 5:30 p.m., Thursday, February 27, at the Venice Community Center, 326 Nokomis Ave. S. Venice. All proceeds benefit Our Mother's House, a program of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., which is committed to helping homeless mothers and their children achieve self-sufficiency. The evening will include a wine tasting, auctions, dinner and dancing. Tickets are $85 a person. For information call 941-485-6264 or email joyce.scott@catholiccharitiesdov.org.

An Elegant Evening - The Emerald Ball will be held at 6:00 p.m. Saturday, March 7, at the Ritz-Carlton Beach Resort in Naples. All proceeds will benefit the programs and services of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc. in Collier County. These programs include financial assistance, professional counseling, food pantries and food programs, empowerment program, senior services, immigration services, soup kitchen, clothing room and shower program, English classes, Weekend Power Pack Food Program, the Undy Sunday project and holiday gift and food distribution. Tickets are $400. The evening will include a cocktail hour, auctions, dinner and dancing. For tickets visit www.catholiccharitiesdov.org or call 239-455-2655. For information, email paola.pinillos@catholiccharitiesdov.org.

Tickets Available Now - The Sugar Bowl Show of Shows Bradenton will be held at 7:00 p.m., Saturday, March 14, at the Neel Performing Arts Center at State College of Florida in Bradenton. Sponsored by Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc. and the Knights of Columbus Councils in Sarasota and Manatee counties, the show will feature All About Soul - The Music of Billy Joel. Tickets are $25, $30 and $35 a person. All proceeds go to the Sugar Bowl Fund for families in the community who are experiencing a financial hardship. For information and tickets visit www.catholiccharitiesdov.org.

Save the Date - The Venetian Charity Ball will be held at 6:00 p.m., Saturday, March 21, at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa in Bonita Springs. All proceeds will benefit the programs and services of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc. in Lee, Hendry, and Glades counties, which include Positive Youth Development Program, Senior Support Coordination Program, Anti-Human Trafficking Assistance Program, immigration services, food assistance and pantries, baby supplies, and disaster response and recovery. The evening will include a cocktail hour, auctions, dinner and dancing. Tickets are $250. For information and tickets visit www.catholiccharitiesdov.org or call 239-337-4193 or email mya.widmyer@catholiccharitiesdov.org.

Charity Golf Classic - The AFCAAM of Catholic Charities Charity Golf Classic will be held on Friday, April 17, at the Forest Country Club, 6100 Partridge Club Rd. SW, in Fort Myers. All proceeds benefit the programs at AFCAAM of Catholic Charities which include the After-School Reading Program, and the SKILLS Female Mentoring and Straight Talk Male Mentoring programs. Registration is at noon and play begins at 1:00 p.m. The golf tournament will include dinner and prizes. For more information, please contact Ted Duffy at 239-728-4571 or tduffy1942@gmail.com.

St. John Paul II Villas - Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc. announces the completion of St. John Paul II Villas in Arcadia - a brand new senior citizen, low-income housing development.  Apartments consist of one or two bedrooms and are available for individuals 55 years of age and older, or handicapped or disabled persons of any age. Income restrictions apply. All units include a washer/dryer, microwave, dishwasher, garbage disposal and some units have walk-in showers. Rents begins at $459 for one-bedroom, and $626 for two-bedroom. Income restrictions apply. For more information please call Michelle Figuera at 863-884-2123 (TTY711).

Know Your Immigration Rights - The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has numerous resources outlining the rights of immigrants located on the website www.justiceforimmigrants.org. The USCCB, in partnership with CASA of Maryland, Detention Watch Network, and National Immigration Project of the National Lawyers Guild, offer a comprehensive "Know Your Rights!" brochure in English (CLICK HERE) and Spanish (CLICK HERE). (Editor's note: Parish staff is encouraged to print this brochure in English and Spanish to have as a resource.) Additionally, for a guide to better understanding immigrant rights in the workplace please visit: https://cliniclegal.org/resources/know-your-rights-workers.

Conozca Sus Derechos Migratorios - La conferencia episcopal de los Estados Unidos (USCCB) tiene diversos recursos detallando los derechos de los inmigrantes, los que podrá encontrar en la Web, www.justiceforimmigrants.org. La conferencia episcopal trabajando conjuntamente con CASA de Maryland, Detention Watch Network y National Immigration Project of the National Lawyers Guild, le ofrece un folleto comprensivo de "Conozca sus Derechos", en Inglés (Haga cliq aqui) y en Español (Haga cliq aqui). Adicionalmente, para obtener un mejor entendimiento de los derechos de los inmigrantes en el lugar de trabajo, por favor visite https://cliniclegal.org/resources/know-uour-rights-workers.

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center
Come to the Water Day of Prayer - The "Come to the Water Day of Prayer" will be held from 9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., each second Wednesday of the month at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice. All are invited to attend. The day includes a continental breakfast, lunch, two conferences, and opportunities for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, private meditation and prayer and the Mass. The early registration discount 10 days prior is $30, or $35 thereafter. Please register at https://olph-retreat.org/1-day-retreats.

Youth and Young Adults
Young Adult Retreat - Attend an inspiring retreat given by the Seminarians of the St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary. This Young Adult Retreat will be held from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Saturday, February 1, at the Seminary, 10701 S. Military Trail, Boynton Beach. The theme is "Et Verbum Caro Factum Est (And the Word Was Made Flesh)." Join other young adults (18-35) and encounter the Lord made present to us through His Word in Sacred Scripture and the Holy Eucharist. There will be talks, Adoration, Confession, Mass and more. To register please visit www.svdp.edu/project-page, or for more information please email svdpretreat@gmail.com. (CLICK HERE  for a flier.)

Mission Immokalee - Registration Required - The very popular Mission Immokalee trip registration for high school students will open on February 1. Students will work on service projects from June 8-12, with Catholic Charities of Collier and Lee Counties, Guadalupe Social Services and the Coalition of Immokalee Workers. The mission trip is $199 and includes meals, lodging and transportation to work sites. For more information contact the Diocese of Venice Mission Office at 239-241-2233. Registration is through Youth Ministers at Parishes and Schools.

Do You Know a Young Person with a Drug Problem? - Perhaps you know of a young friend, neighbor or classmate who suffers from drug addiction and does not know where to turn for help. Drug Addicts Anonymous believes all individuals suffering from addiction have a right to access recovery, be self-sufficient and independent. Drug Addicts Anonymous provides an opportunity for long term recovery and positive change through a no-cost service. Based on a 12-step program, the focus is on the physical, mental and spiritual condition as a whole person; contributing to the individual's social reintegration in a dignified and efficient way. For further information on the program and services available, please visit www.daamerica.org or call 561-420-0930.

¿Conoce A Alguna Persona Joven Con Un Problema De Drogas? - Quizás usted sepa de algún amigo joven, vecino ó compañero que sufre de una adicción a las drogas y no sabe a quién recurrir por ayuda. Drogadictos Anónimos considera que todo individuo que sufre de una adicción tiene derecho a iniciar una recuperación, ser independiente y auto-suficiente. Sin embargo, hoy en día hay mucha gente joven afectada por la drogadicción, privada de un sentido de autovaloración porque no puede pagar por tratamiento adecuado ó; no tiene acceso a recursos de recuperación y apoyo. Drogadictos Anónimos le proporciona la oportunidad de una recuperación a largo plazo y un cambio positivo por medio de un servicio sin costo alguno. Basado en un programa de doce pasos, el enfoque es en la condición física, mental y espiritual de la persona, contribuyendo a la integración social del individuo de una manera digna y eficiente. Para información adicional de este programa y los servicios disponibles, por favor visite www.daamerica.org ó llame al 561-420-0930.

Calling All Young Adults - The Diocese of Venice offers many opportunities for young adults to build community. Through programs like Theology on Tap, intramural sports teams, and Parish-organized social events, there is something available for everyone in the Diocese. Young Adults (18-39) are encouraged to participate in these opportunities to enrich faith and make friends! If you have any Young Adult activities planned or would like to learn about them in your area, please contact Joshua Mazrin at mazrin@dioceseofvenice.org.

Fort Myers Area - "Rooted," a Young Adult Program offering an opportunity to build Community meets at 7:15 p.m., on the first Thursday of the month at St. John XXIII Parish, 13060 Palomino Lane, Fort Myers. This program is for ages 18-39, married, single, women, men, parishioners and non-parishioners. Sessions vary from praise and worship, events and adventure, bonfires, and social justice events. For more information like Rooted on Facebook at "Rooted at St. John XXIII," or contact Kelly Evers at 239-561-3022 ext.107.

Naples Area - Theology on Tap - The location of the gatherings rotate among different Parishes and are held from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesdays: First Tuesday at St. John the Evangelist Parish, 625 111th Avenue North; Second Tuesday at St. Agnes Parish, 7775 Vanderbilt Beach Road; Fourth Tuesday at St. William Parish, 601 Seagate Drive.

Fort Myers - Theology on Tap - Join us for a time of fellowship and outreach including games, discussion, and complimentary refreshments at 7:00 p.m., on the second Thursday of the month at Old Soul Brewing, 10970 S. Cleveland, Ave., Suite 402, Fort Myers. Please contact Joshua Mazrin at evagelization@dioceseofvenice.org for details.

Sarasota Area - Theology on Tap - Join us for a time of fellowship and outreach including games, discussion, and complimentary refreshments at 7:00 p.m., on the third Thursday of the month at the Mandeville Beer Garden, 428 N. Lemon Ave., Sarasota. Please contact Joshua Mazrin at evagelization@dioceseofvenice.org for details.

OUT AND ABOUT THE DIOCESE
Parish Prayer Walk - St. Francis of Assisi Parish, 5265 Placida Road, Grove City, is hosting its annual Walk for Life at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, January 18. The Walk is being held in solidarity with the National March for Life in Washington, D.C., to be a witness for a Culture of Life and to defend the right to life of all unborn children. Pledge sheets are available in the Parish Office. Everyone is welcome. Please call 941-697-4899 for further information.

Faith and Wine Lee County - The next gathering of Faith and Wine Lee County is 6:30 p.m., Thursday, January 23, at St. John XXIII Parish, 13060 Palomino Lane, Fort Myers. The speaker, Kelly Nieto will present: "My Holy Mess!" To see the complete line-up of speakers and to register, please visit https://faithandwineleecounty.com.

Blue Mass - St. Agnes Catholic Church, 7775 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples will celebrate a Blue Mass in honor of law enforcement, firefighters and first responders, active and retired, at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 25. The guest homilist will be Fr. Sean O'Connor, Chaplain of the Boston Police Department. All are welcome to attend in honor of their sacrifice and service in our community. A luncheon will immediately follow in the Parish Hall. Please RSVP at 239-592-1949 for the reception.

10th Annual Sunshine State Steak Cook-off - The 10th Annual Sunshine State Steak Cook-Off in Ave Maria is Saturday, January 25. Cook teams will be competing for trophies and cash prizes. https://www.sunshinestatesteakcookoff.com/. Early bird tickets are $20 and now available online, or can be purchased at the Donahue Academy Office, Ave Maria Development, Del Webb Oasis Club or the Ave Maria Parish Office at 239-261-5555.

Magnificat Breakfast - The next Magnificat Breakfast for women will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Saturday, January 25, at the Holiday Inn Airport, Gulf Coast Town Center, Fort Myers. All ladies are invited. The speaker is Ireland-born Sr. Briege McKenna, OSC, a world-renowned author and speaker who entered the Sisters of St. Clare at the age of 15. Visit www.magnificatfortmyers.org for more information. Seating is limited. Advanced registration only and tickets are $23. For additional details please call 239-826-7475.

St. Ann Catholic School Open House - All are invited to kick off Catholic Schools Week with an open house at St. Ann Catholic School, 542 8th Avenue South in Naples, from 11:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m., Sunday, January 26. Visit the first Catholic School in Naples to experience the Excellence in Education of the Mind and Spirit. For more information call Tracy Farley at 239-262-4110, ext. 313.

Parish Concert - San Antonio Parish Knights of Columbus is hosting a concert featuring the Goldtones, Florida's famous doo-wop group. The concert begins at 7:00 p.m., Friday, January 31, in the Holy Trinity Hall, 24411 Rampart Blvd, Port Charlotte. General Admission tickets are $15. In addition to all the old familiar doo-wop favorites, they will also be singing your favorite Motown hits. Last year the show sold out early, so get your tickets now at 800-838-3006, or online at www.BrownPaperTickets.com.

Annual Verot Viking 5K - All runners and non-runners are invited to join the Sixth Annual Verot Viking 5K on Saturday, February 1, at Bishop Verot Catholic High School, 5598 Sunrise Drive, Fort Myers. The "certified 5K course" begins in the Bishop Verot Football Stadium at 8:00 a.m. There will be age group awards for the top three women and men in each category. Register by Monday, January 20 at www.bvhs.org and follow the link to receive race days shirts. After that date, sizes and availability cannot be guaranteed. Cost is $30, and $20 for students. For more information, please contact Jeff Brown, Director of Development, at 239-274-6730 or jeff.brown@bvhs.org.

Alpha Journey - Incarnation Parish - Alpha is an experience that invites people in all stages of their faith journey to encounter the person and message of Jesus Christ in a new and deeper way. It is an informal gathering that begins with a meal, continues with a video and talk, and ends with small group conversations on life and faith. Meetings are from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesdays, beginning February 5 thru April 8, at the Finegan Center of Incarnation Parish, 2901 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota. The Alpha journey will be facilitated by Father Eric Scanlan. For more information about the program please visit: https://alphausa.org/catholic. To register, please email Molly Schorr at: mschorr@incarnationchurch.org or call the parish office at 941-921-6631.

St. Ann School Foundation Gala - All are welcome to come support the St. Ann Catholic School 2020 Foundation Gala, "Envision the Magic" at 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 5, at the Naples Grande Beach Resort. Join us for a magical evening in support of the scholarship fund for the students of St. Ann Catholic School. Enjoy an evening of cocktails, dinner, and dancing while participating in an engaging magic show. For tickets and information, please visit www.stann.net/gala, call 239-262-4110, or email foundation@stann.net.

Faith and Ale Lee County - All men are invited to the next gathering of Faith and Ale Lee County at 6:00 p.m., Thursday, February 20, at Resurrection Parish, 8121 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers. The speaker is Bob Morgan, a former baseball coach at Indiana University, who will present "Things that make us do the things we do." Donations of $10 are requested. To register, please visit www.faithandale.com.

Fine Arts Show and Sale - The Knights of Columbus Council 11177 of St. Katherine Drexel Parish, 1922 SW. 20th Ave., Cape Coral, is sponsoring a Fine Arts Show and Sale from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Saturday, February 22, and from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Sunday, February 23. The show will feature local art and artists. There is no charge to attend. For more information, please email sands.shaw@gmail.com.

Sidewalk Counselors Training - A training session for Pro-Life sidewalk counselors will take place from 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Saturday, March 7, at St. Martha Parish, 200 N. Orange St., Sarasota. The training will be given by Bethany Mistretta, Director of Programs for Sidewalk Advocates for Life, a national organization offering effective tips and strategies for reaching the hearts of abortion-minded women and men in a peaceful, prayerful, and law-abiding manner on the sidewalk. Whether you are new to the sidewalk or have been going for decades, the sincere hope is that ALL counselors will be able to attend for a much-needed refresher and to help unite our efforts. Attending does not require one to become a sidewalk counselor. The cost is $5 to defer the cost of the workbooks and lunch. Please RSVP by Friday, February 21, to James Kurt at 941-371-7339 or jameskurt@gamil.com.

Women's Emmaus Retreat - All women are encouraged to attend the annual Women's Emmaus Retreat from Friday, March 13 through Sunday, March 15 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice. Hosted by Epiphany Cathedral, join the opportunity to renew and deepen your relationship with the Lord. The cost is $200 for a double room, or $315 single room. The registration deadline is March 1. For more information or to register please contact Donna Vodraska at 630-336-0918 or by email at donnavodraska@aol.com.

Save the Date - The two Lee County outreach groups for men and women will hold a joint gathering at 6:30 p.m., March 19 at St. John XXIII Parish, 13060 Palomino Lane, Fort Myers. The special guest speaker is Immaculée Ilibagiza, author and survivor of the Rwandan Genocide. The cost is $20 and includes dinner. Please visit www.faithandale.com or https://faithandwineleecounty.com for more information and to register.

"Magyar Mise"- Mass in Hungarian will now be available on the second Sunday of each month beginning at 1:30 p.m., at Incarnation Parish, 2902 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota.

Bingo Knights - The Knights of Columbus of San Marco Parish, 851 San Marco Road, Marco Island, will host bingo each Thursday night in the Parish Hall beginning Thursdays now through April 2. The doors open at 5:30 p.m. For more information call John DeRosa at 239-389-5633.

Free Rosary Repair Service - Send your broken rosaries in a padded envelope to Betty and Dick Holden, 7930 Estero Blvd. #502, Fort Myers, 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 or email holdenbnd@gmail.com.

Please submit items for consideration in the Mustard Seed at least one month in advance of an event to newsletter@dioceseofvenice.org.