Diocese of Venice Crest

 

The Diocese of Venice in Florida

The Mustard Seed

January 24, 2020 

Office of the Bishop
Pope Francis Prayer Intention for February - We pray that the cries of our migrant brothers and sisters, victims of criminal trafficking, may be heard and considered.

Blessing of the Throats - In memory of Saint Blaise, whose optional Memorial is Monday, February 3, the Blessing of the Throats may be given on Sunday, February 2 during or outside of Mass. During Mass, the blessing follows the homily and general intercessions, or, for pastoral reasons, it may take the place of the final blessing of the Mass. For the complete rite, please refer to the Book of Blessings, nos. 1622-1655.

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 fast approaching!  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. Visit https://dioceseofvenice.regfox.com/2020-mens-conference. Cost at the door is $30, and $10 for students. Come 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.

Rite of Election - On the first Sunday of Lent, March 1, at 2:30 p.m., the Rite of Election will be celebrated by Bishop Frank J. Dewane for the entire Diocese at Epiphany Cathedral.  RCIA adults who have been preparing in their parishes will be sent to the Rite of Election. There will be no mailing this year. All forms can be found on the Diocesan website: https://dioceseofvenice.org/parish-connect/all-diocesan-policies-and-forms/. Forms are listed under "Rite of Election....". For questions about seating or the Cathedral, please contact the Rite of Election Coordinator at 941-485-2325. All other questions should be directed to the Office of Religious Education at the Diocese of Venice at 941-484-9543. Please send forms to Epiphany Cathedral no later than February 14.  Email completed forms to reled@epiphanycathedral.org or send by mail to Sister Frances Lalor, RSM, at Epiphany Cathedral, 310 Sarasota Street, Venice, FL 34285 or by fax to 941-488-9333.

Flu Precautions - With the flu season in full swing, all Diocese of Venice Parishes/Missions are being asked to take extra precautions to help mitigate the spread and effects of the flu. (CLICK HERE for a memo from Bishop Dewane.) Once the health situation subsides, the new precautions will be revisited. Easy steps everyone can take to stay healthy and prevent the spread of the flu are included. (CLICK HERE for tips in both English and Spanish.)

'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. Disciple of Christ prayer cards are also available in English and Spanish 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. 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. The topic for this month's program is "Sunday of the Word of God: The Scriptures". Listen anywhere online at https://dioceseofvenice.org/our-bishop/relevant-radio-podcasts/. The program airs on the last Friday of each month.

Respect Life
Spiritual Adoption - If you would like to distribute Spiritual Adoption prayer cards in your Parish for the Solemnity of the Annunciation on March 25, please contact Jeanne Berdeaux at Berdeaux@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-374-1068, indicating the quantity need (English, Spanish or Creole) by January 31.  This deadline is necessary so that they can be ordered from the printer in enough time to be shipped to you. To learn more about the program, see https://dioceseofvenice.org/offices/offices-departments/respect-life/parish-spiritual-adoption-program/.

Novena of Masses for Life - If you plan to participate in the Novena of Masses for Life (monthly from March 25 to December 25), CLICK HERE for the 2020 form or CLICK HERE for the 2021 form. If Masses are not available on the 25th of the month, they can be scheduled anytime (weekend Masses recommended). Please submit a 2020 completed form by February 21.  Visit https://dioceseofvenice.org/offices/offices-departments/respect-life/novena-of-masses-for-life/ for details or contact Jeanne Berdeaux at Berdeaux@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-374-1068

Unplanned Movie - LAST CALL FOR FREE MOVIE LICENSE!  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
40 Days for Life - Join other Christians from February 26 through April 5, for the spring 40 Days for Life campaign. This campaign encompasses 40 days of prayer and fasting for an end to abortion. Stand and peacefully pray during vigils in the public right-of-way outside Planned Parenthood in Naples, Fort Myers or Sarasota. For more information, go to www.40daysforlife.com and click on the location nearest you. (Contact your Church Coordinator for specific information about your Parish's commitment days.)

Collier County
Naples Prayer Walk for Life - Join Bishop Frank J. Dewane on Ash Wednesday, February 26, for the 8:00 a.m. Mass at St. William Parish, 601 Seagate Drive, Naples. Bus transportation will be available from Fleischmann Park to the start of a peaceful Prayer Walk outside Planned Parenthood. This event marks the beginning of the Spring 40 Days for Life Campaign. Call 941-374-1068 for details. (CLICK HERE for full-page flier or CLICK HERE  for ¼-page ad. Call for a ½ page ad, 11 x 17" poster or JPG format.)

Charlotte County
Port Charlotte Prayer Walk for Life - Join Bishop Frank J. Dewane on Friday, February 28, for the 8:30 a.m. Mass at St. Charles Borromeo Parish, 21505 Augusta Avenue. Following the Mass, there will be a rosary procession on church property (due to road construction on Olean Blvd.) to pray for an end to abortion. Refreshments will be provided after the walk. Contact Jeanne Berdeaux, Berdeaux@dioceseofvenice.org or 941-374-1068 for details. (Click HERE for full page ad or HERE for ¼-page ad. Call for a ½ page ad, 11x17" poster or JPG format.)

Project Rachel Post-Abortion Reconciliation and Healing Retreat (Spanish) - Please include information about the February 15 Project Rachel one-day retreat in Spanish no later than your February 9 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.

Evangelization
Catholic Charismatic Renewal Annual Conference in English - Come join the 2020 Diocese of Venice 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.)

Catholic Charities
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 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.

Naples Catholic Charity Ball - 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 the 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
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. (CLICK HERE for a flier.)

OUT AND ABOUT THE DIOCESE
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. 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.

Fashion Show - St. Raphael Parish Council of Catholic Women sponsoring a "Cruising the Seas" fashion show at 11:30 a.m., Wednesday, February 5, at the Waverly Restaurant, 2095 N. Beach Road, Englewood. Tickets are $25. Proceeds benefit the CCW and parish charities. For more information and tickets, please call Sue Salvegio at 508-308-1380.

Card Party - The Women's Guild of St. Francis of Assisi Parish invite everyone to a Card Party from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Wednesday, February 5, in the Parish Hall at 5265 Placida Road, Grove City (Englewood). Tickets are $8 and include lunch, drinks, playing time and door prizes. Register at www.sfoachurch.com, click on "Parish Forms" and "Card Party," or by calling 941-697-4899 ext. 6.

Morning of Enlightenment - All are invited to hear author Matt Fradd speak at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, February 6 in St. Martha Parish Hall, 200 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota. The topics for the talk is: "God, the Universe, and Everything: Learn how to search for the meaning of life." The event is free. For more information, please contact Patty Sileo at sileo@stmartha.org.

Fashion Fit to a Tea - The Ladies of St. Agnes Parish invite all women to their annual Fashion Show at 11:30 a.m., Thursday, February 6, at the Vanderbilt Country Club, 6250 Danbury Blvd., Naples. The cost is $40 and includes the luncheon and fashion show with designs provided by Stein Mart. For tickets and information, please call Roberta Huesto at 734-634-4294 or Barbara Thiele at 239-513-0933.

School Gala - Epiphany Catholic School in Venice is hosting its 2020 Epiphany Gala at 5:30 p.m., Saturday, February 15 at the Plantation Golf and Country Club, 500 Rockley Blvd., Venice. The 2020 Shining Star Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient this year is Sister Frances Lalor, RSM. The evening includes dinner, dancing, silent and live auctions. Tickets are $125 and can be purchased at www.ecstiger.com, or by calling Chris Coviello at 941-615-0284 or Coviello@ecstigers.com.  

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." A donation of $10 is requested. To register, please visit www.faithandale.com.

Networking Lunch - All Catholic businesses and ministries are invited to attend the next complimentary networking lunch of the Florida Catholic Chamber of Commerce at 11:30 a.m., Thursday, February 20, at St. John XXIII Parish Hall, 13060 Palomino Lane, Fort Myers. No membership is required. For more information visit www.floridacatholicchamber.com. Please email toni@floridacatholicchamber.com or call Angela at 239-980-0921 to RSVP.

Faith and Wine Lee County - The next gathering of Faith and Wine Lee County is 6:30 p.m., Thursday, February 27, at Our Lady of Light Parish, 19680 Cypress View Drive, Fort Myers. The speaker is Rhonda Zweber: "Inspiration for the Road Ahead." To see the complete line-up of speakers, or to register, visit https://faithandwineleecounty.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.

Fashion Show - The St. Thomas More Parish Women's Club presents "20/20 Vision of Fashion in 2020", at 11:15 a.m., Tuesday, February 25 at the Laurel Oak Country Club, 2700 Gary Player Blvd., Sarasota, Fashions are by A'Tu. The proceeds benefit parish charities. The cost is $40, cash bar. Please make reservations by Wednesday, February 19 by visiting www.stthomasmoresrq.org, or calling Ginny Lyons 941-928-9692.

Birthday Party and Mardis Gras Celebration - Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Venice is having a Parish Birthday Party and Mardis Gras celebration at 5:00 p.m., Saturday, February 22, at Plantation Golf and Country Club 500 Rockley Blvd., Venice. The evening will include appetizers, dinner, entertainment, as well as live and silent auctions. Tickets are $100. For more information and to purchase tickets, please call 941-497-2931 or visit www.ollvenice.org.

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 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@gmail.com.

Special Guest Speaker - St John XXIII Parish, 13060 Palomino Lane, Fort Myers, is pleased to welcome special guest speaker Ralph McCloud, social justice advocate and the Director of the Catholic Campaign for Human Development, a program of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. McCloud will be speaking at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, March 7 in the Parish Life Center. He will address the Gospel stories that speak about the Reign of God and the struggles and systems that people in poverty face.  He will talk and take questions regarding the successes of the work of the Catholic Campaign for Human Development. The talk is free. For more information, please call 239-561-2245.

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 for a 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.

Fashion Show and Luncheon - The St. Michael the Archangel Parish Women's Guild is hosting a fashion show and luncheon, at 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 18, at the Laurel Oak Country Club, 2700 Gary Player Blvd. Sarasota. Fashions are provided by Chico's. Proceeds will benefit the Capital Campaign to rebuild the Parish Center. Tickets are $50. Please send registrations to Kathy Caltagirone, 8700 Midnight Pass Road, #404, Sarasota, FL 34242. For more information, call 941-346-0229.

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 in St. John XXIII Parish Hall, 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.

Bingo - Please join us for our weekly Bingo games at the St. Francis of Assisi Church Parish Hall located at 5265 Placida Road, Grove City.  The doors open at 9:30 a.m. and the early bird games start at 10:00 a.m.  Lunch is available for purchase.  Please mark your calendars for the February games which will be held on Tuesdays, February 5, 12 and 27.  Bring a friend and/or neighbor - the more players the bigger the prizes.  Please call 941-697-4899 hit 6 and leave a message and your phone number.  We'll return your call as soon as possible. Looking forward to seeing you!

"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.