Marcie Lipscomb has a heart for children in foster care and through a ministry she started in 2019, she is able to support foster children and foster parents in a unique way. The ministry is called “Hands Lifting Hearts” and she started it at St. Timothy Parish in Lutz. “I felt that I was being …
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The Biden Administration announced Friday afternoon that it will not increase the historically low number of refugees who can be resettled in the United States for the current fiscal year. However, it will restore the long-time practice of allocating refugees from every region of the world, thus opening resettlement to some who were not included …
The bishops along the border of the United States and Northern Mexico have issued a joint statement on the situation at the border of the two countries. Their joint statement follows: As U.S. and Mexican bishops along the border, we witness daily the dilemma that our migrant sisters and brothers face. For most, the decision …
Can America be Multi-Lingual and United? A discussion on how conversion, Gospel values and intentional evangelization can facilitate more unity in the Catholic community. Presented by Fr. Raphael Capo, Vice President for Mission and Ministry and Dean of Theology at St. Thomas University. ¿Pueden los Estados Unidos ser una nación multilingüe y unida? Diálogo sobre …
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Promotional Graphics for May 1st Event Square: English | Spanish Rectangle: English | Spanish Horizontal: English | Spanish No Text Consecration Definition Promotional Text for May 1st EventBishop Gregory Parkes will Consecrate the Diocese of St. Petersburg to St. Joseph on May 1stYou are invited to join Bishop Parkes for the Diocesan St. Joseph Consecration …
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Following passage of legislation to repeal the death penalty in the Commonwealth of Virginia, Archbishop Paul S. Coakley of Oklahoma City, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development issued the following statement: “I welcome Virginia’s repeal of the death penalty as a bold step towards a culture …
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From Bishop Gregory Parkes Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Jesus Christ is Risen! He is Risen Indeed! Easter is a defining moment because the power of the resurrection of Jesus Christ bestows upon us the grace that transforms our lives. The gift of eternal life, the gift of forgiveness, and the gift of hope …
Five committee chairmen of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) wrote a letter to members of Congress opposing the recent reintroduction of the Equality Act (H.R. 5), which is scheduled to be voted on by the U.S. House of Representatives this week. The bishops warned of the threats posed by the proposed legislation to …
When parishioners of Most Holy Redeemer Parish in Tampa walk into the church on Easter morning, they will be celebrating the Risen Christ in more ways than one. Parishioners will see an unobstructed floor-to-ceiling stained glass window of the Risen Christ welcoming all who enter. For years this window went largely unnoticed, partially hidden by …
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In this recording of the monthly “Conversation about Race” online discussion on February 24, 2021, the speaker was Dr. Ansel Augustine, Executive Director of Cultural Diversity and Outreach for the Archdiocese of Washington, DC. He talked about “Black History Month – Why It’s Important” and what we can do in observance of it in February …
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A Free Event for Parish Communication Leaders – We will be following CDC guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Lunch, Formation, Fellowship and Faith Thursday, April 29, 2021, 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Bethany Retreat Center18150 Bethany Center Dr, Lutz 9:30 a.m. Registration & Networking 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Program Click here to …
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The Supreme Court’s 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling usurped the proper role of legislators and imposed an extreme abortion regime that has contributed to the polarization that has divided us as a nation and further wounded our society by ending over 61 million lives. Its trauma affects the web of social relationships that form families …
For the last five decades, the Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD), the U.S. Bishop’s anti-poverty program, has empowered communities to tackle the many dimensions and complexities of poverty in the United States. As we begin a new year and Poverty Awareness Month, we invite you to participate in this vitally important work, especially as …
Advance Registration is Required. Click here to register. Thursday, January 21, 2021 | 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. What is the most important thing you learned in 2020 that will help you in 2021? The Diocesan Office of Communications invites you …
The Diocese of St. Petersburg joined cities and dioceses around the world on November 30, for the International day of Cities for Life against the Death Penalty. On this date, cities across the globe mobilize to renounce the death penalty and work for a more civil form of justice. Speakers included Bishop Gregory Parkes, Rev. Robert Schneider, and …
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In this recording of the “Monthly Conversation about Race” discussion on November 19, 2020, the speaker was Dr. Moneque Walker-Pickett, professor at St. Leo University. She talked about “The Result of No Action: Why We Need to Work Together for Justice.” The next Conversations about Race will be held in January – stay tuned to …
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The Diocese of St. Petersburg will hold the Retirement Fund for Religious collection Dec. 12-13. The National Religious Retirement Office (NRRO) coordinates this annual appeal and distributes the proceeds to assist eligible U.S. religious communities with their retirement needs. Nearly 30,000 senior sisters, brothers and religious order priests benefit. Last year, the Diocese of St. …
WASHINGTON – Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles and president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has issued the following statement on the 2020 presidential election: We thank God for the blessings of liberty. The American people have spoken in this election. Now is the time for our leaders to come together in …
On November 9, 2020, the Office of Life, Justice and Advocacy and Catholic Relief Services (CRS) hosted a webinar about the people experiencing hunger both globally and locally and our Church’s response to their needs. Watch a recording of the webinar below. The COVID-19 pandemic is increasing the risk of a severe crisis in areas …
In this recording of the “Monthly Conversation about Race” discussion on October 28, 2020, the speaker was Monsignor Carruthers, parochial administrator of Resurrection Parish in Riverview. He talked about “Racism is a Life Issue.”
St. Joseph Catholic Church and St. Paul Catholic Church, both located in St. Petersburg, are entering into a process to courageously listen and dialogue on race. This will be an opportunity for participants to increase understanding and empathy for one another and to shed light on this important issue. On October 22, 2020, local pastors, Monsignor Robert Gibbons …
The Annual White Mass for physicians, medical students and other healthcare professionals in our diocese.will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2020, at 4:00 p.m. Bishop Gregory Parkes will preside at the beautiful “ Chapel of the Holy Cross” located on the campus of Jesuit High School (4701 N. Himes Ave ) in Tampa. We ask that attendees please …
The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) will host a virtual rosary event on October 7, the Memorial of Our Lady of the Rosary. Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles, president of the USCCB, has called for this moment of prayer with the intention of uniting Catholics across the country at this time when …
During Advent, we are encouraged to meditate on the birth of Jesus into poverty and on how this reflects the reality of many other families around the world today.The Advent Giving Tree gifts below include items that represent actual goods and services provided to people that Catholic Relief Services serves around the world. The gifts themselves are symbolic …
Saint Leo University will present a six-part series, Courageous Conversations, examining social justice issues. This free, virtual discussion will look at topics included in Bryan Stevenson’s book, Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption, from different perspectives across multiple disciplines. The first session will focus on race and racism and is set for 7 …
The annual Florida Culture of Life Conference, formerly known as the state Respect Life Conference, will be hosted by the Diocese of Palm Beach on Saturday, October 24, 2020. The virtual conference promises to be an informative and uplifting event with speakers on a variety of life topics, including the unborn, theology of the body, …
The World’s Largest Grassroots Movement to End Abortion From September 23-November 1, 2020, participants of all ages will join hundreds of communities across America and Canada for 40 Days for Life, an international peaceful and prayerful movement to end the injustice of abortion. The 40-day time frame is drawn from examples throughout Biblical history where God …
There are several non-Church affiliated, political advocacy groups (such as CatholicVote, Priests for Life, Catholics United, My Faith Votes, League of Women Voters, etc.), which seek to mobilize and educate Catholic voters. These non-Church affiliated groups may endorse (or oppose) candidates for elective office, as well as provide candidates with direct financial support, which does …
In support of the recommendations made by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishop’s Ad Hoc Committee Against Racism and the diocesan Black Catholic Ministry, Bishop Parkes is asking all to pray for an end to racism and violence in our communities and country on Wednesday, September 9, the Memorial of St. Peter Claver, the …
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On July 28, U.S. Department of Homeland Security Acting Secretary Chad Wolf issued a memorandum adding limitations to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. The memorandum was issued in response to the recent 5-4 decision by the Supreme Court of the United States striking down the Trump Administration’s September 2017 attempt to end the DACA program. The …
The United Nations designated July 30 as the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons in 2013 to raise awareness of the devastating impact human trafficking has on women, men, and children and to promote survivors’ rights and human dignity. The international day is observed annually in the United States and throughout the world. There are nearly 25 …
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On July 27, 2020, an online discussion took place called: Why Do They March? Answering the Questions that Divide Us so that Understanding and Love Can Unite Us. A panel of five Tampa Bay area Catholics responded to some challenging questions regarding racism. This was the first in a series of online discussions aimed at promoting greater …
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The mission of the Catholic Church is very different from the mission of political parties. The Church guards the deposit of faith and makes the truth of the Gospel shine forth to lead all people to seek and receive Christ’s love. There is no political party that is aligned to this mission and as a …
The Josephites look with horror and disbelief at the killing once more of a black man by the police in Minneapolis this week. This is but another tragic and sad reminder of the legacy of America’s original sin of slavery and its aftermath, the continued violence against people of color. The words of the Lord …
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Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles and president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has issued a statement on George Floyd and the protests in American cities that have taken place over the last several days. This follows the Friday statement from seven U.S. bishop chairmen of committees within the USCCB. Archbishop Gomez’s full …
Seven U.S. bishop chairmen of committees within the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops have issued a statement in the wake of the death of Mr. George Floyd and the protests which have broken out in Minneapolis and in other cities in the United States. Bishop Shelton J. Fabre of Houma-Thibodaux, chairman of the Ad Hoc …
Sacred Heart Parish in Pinellas Park is taking to heart the message of Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si – the courageous call to be good stewards of the earth. Father Kevin Yarnell, pastor, shares that “We want to be good stewards in every area of the parish, including our land. Our biggest success to date …
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Pope Francis’ Vision: Brothers and Sisters All What does Fratelli Tutti, the Encyclical of Pope Francis on fraternity and social friendship, have to say that is relevant for believers today? Our three-part series explored the major themes of the document and gave participants a chance to embrace Pope Francis’ vision for a new and better …
All are invited to attend Rediscovering Fortitude: Courage for Uncertain Times, a Ministry of Mercy online retreat on Saturday, April 25, 2020 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.. The retreat will be led by Dr. Mary Carter, a pastoral theologian and dedicated teacher. Registration is free and a secure Zoom link will be sent to …
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Each year, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops offers a Creating on the Margins arts contest to help schools and parishes engage youth in learning about the root causes of poverty and the Church’s response. The theme of this year’s contest, “More Than a Roof,” invites Catholic youth in grades 7-12 to respond to the …
The bishops of Florida commend our state legislature for passing, with bipartisan support, legislation that ensures a parent provides consent before a minor can terminate her pregnancy. Parental consent is required prior to a minor’s medical treatment in most every instance, this includes simple medical interventions such as taking an aspirin or getting one’s ears …
The local interfaith community, with a shared belief in the dignity of all human life, is asking Governor DeSantis to grant James Dailey clemency, and commute his sentence to life in prison with this letter. We understand that the Clemency Commission under Governor Scott declined to recommend Mr. Dailey’s case for a hearing on clemency …
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9 Days for Life is a multi-faceted novena for the respect and protection of human life. Each day, a different intention is accompanied by a short reflection, suggested actions, and related information. Sign up to receive the novena by email, text message, or an app at www.9daysforlife.com. Additional resources to observe the Day of Prayer for …
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Reproductive Grief Care Training for Clergy and Pregnancy Center Staff/Volunteers: Two separate trainings will be offered on Tuesday February 18 2020. All clergy and pregnancy center staff/volunteers in the Diocese of St. Petersburg are invited to a Reproductive Grief Care Training from 9 am until noon at Our Lady of the Rosary Parish. Learn how …
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Bishop Gregory Parkes of the Diocese of St. Petersburg, in collaboration with the seven other bishops in Florida, has written the following statement: “January 22, 2020 marks a sad anniversary: the U.S. Supreme Court’s tragic decision legalizing the deliberate taking of unborn human life through elective abortion. Judicial sanction of the termination of life in …
Human trafficking is modern day slavery and it is happening in Pasco County. Engage with local experts from anti-trafficking organizations, the Pasco Sheriff’s Office and the New Port Richey Police Department to learn how human trafficking is being combatted in Pasco County. All are invited to attend this FREE seminar and learn more about how …
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All are invited to attend a workshop to learn about Restorative Justice on February 8, 2020, at St. Jerome Catholic Church (10895 Hamlin Blvd. Largo, FL 33774). Catholic social teaching leads us to encourage models of restorative justice that seek to address crime in terms of the harm done to victims and communities, not simply …
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For nearly a half century, the Catholic Church in the United States has celebrated National Migration Week, which is an opportunity for the Church to reflect on the circumstances confronting migrants, including immigrants, refugees, children, and victims and survivors of human trafficking. The theme for National Migration Week 2020, “Promoting a Church and a World …
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This backgrounder from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishop’s Migration and Refugee Services provides suggested actions that you can take to support undocumented migrants, in lieu of hosting or providing physical shelter. Included are links to further information, which will assist your effort to launch some of the suggested initiatives. For assistance with any …
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Sponsored byDiocese of St. Petersburg and Diocese of Orlando Courage/EnCourageDay of Recollection in Tampa Bay Area February 15, 2020 A day of spiritual renewal for those who experience same-sex attraction; parents and family members are welcome to attend. Take some time for yourself to deepen your relationship with Christ through prayer, fellowship and formation. For …
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Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, of Kansas City in Kansas, and Chairman of the Committee on Pro-Life Activities for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, addressed the body of bishops at the annual November plenary meeting of bishops about the need for improved pastoral responses to women facing unexpected or challenging pregnancies. “The challenges can …
March for Life Saint Augustine is for anyone who is pro-life and believes in the sanctity of all human life. Our event is a chance to be a presence for those who cannot speak for themselves, no matter what your religious affiliation. If you are coming with a group, feel free to bring a banner …
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Catholic Days at the Capitol January 28-29, 2020 On January 28 and 29, 2020, Catholics from across the seven dioceses in Florida gathered with their bishops in Tallahassee to participate in Catholic Days at the Capitol. Over the two days, participants attended a legislative briefing, met with elected officials and/or their staff, observed lawmaking in …
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One year ahead of the 2020 national elections, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) is launching a year-long initiative that invites Catholics to model civility, love for neighbor, and respectful dialogue. Civilize It: Dignity Beyond the Debate will ask Catholics to pledge civility, clarity, and compassion in their families, communities, and parishes, and call on …
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Legislation calls for dignified treatment of human remains On October 31, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of Kansas City, Chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee for Pro-Life Activities sent a letter to Members of Congress supporting S. 2590 and HR 4934, the Dignity for Aborted Children Act. In the letter, Archbishop Naumann cited the recent discovery …
