Most Reverend Gregory Parkes, Bishop of Saint Petersburg, announces the following clergy changes, effective September 1, 2025: APPOINTMENTReverend Edwin Palka, from Administrator pro tempore of Epiphany of Our Lord Shrine, Tampa, to the Pastoral Center, St. Petersburg, serving with permission as Chaplain to the Filiae Laboris Mariae religious congregation in Redfield, Kansas, in the Diocese …
The Chancellor’s Office recently learned that Reverend Raymond Arthur Lettre, 95, a retired priest of the Diocese of Saint Petersburg, passed away in the Lord late Friday evening, August 29, 2025, at Sturgill Hospice Care Center, in Brooksville, following a steady decline in health in recent months. Father Lettre was born to Emile and Georgiana …
The Chancellor’s Office received word that Mrs. Elizabeth Zacharia Weria Kiwale, 102, passed away in the Lord earlier today, August 28, 2025, in her home city of Moshi, Tanzania. Mrs. Weria is the mother of Reverend Theobald (Theo) Weria, A.L.C.P., Parochial Vicar of Espiritu Santo Parish, Safety Harbor. She was preceded in death by her …
DIOCESAN OFFICES 2026 Spirit FM Catholic Women’s ConferenceWomen from across the Diocese are invited to a day of faith, fellowship, and renewal at the Spirit FM Catholic Women’s Conference. The event includes Mass, inspiring speakers, uplifting music, and time for prayer and reflection. Vendors and ministries will also be present. Breakfast and lunch will …
Most Reverend Gregory Parkes, Bishop of Saint Petersburg, announces the following clergy appointments, effective August 20, 2025 unless otherwise indicated: APPOINTMENTS Reverend Felipe Gonzalez, J.C.L., from Pastor of Most Holy Name of Jesus Parish, Gulfport, to Pastor of St. Clement Parish, Plant City. Very Reverend Joseph L. Waters, J.C.L. will continue as Parochial Administrator until …
The Chancellor’s Office has been informed of the passing of Reverend John James Gordon, I.C., 82, on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at the Vineyard Inn Assisted Living Facility, in Seminole. Father Gordon was a retired priest of the Institute of Charity (Rosminians) and a long-time pastor of Blessed Sacrament Parish and School, Seminole. His death …
DIOCESAN OFFICES An Invitation from the Office of the Lay Pastoral Ministry Institute Ask yourself: Could God be calling me to be a Lay Ecclesial Minister in His Church? For anyone interested in attending the LPMI Year of Discernment, the registration form and program information can be found on the LPMI web site at: https://www.dosp.org/lpmi/year-of-discernment/ …
Word reached the Chancellor’s Office of the passing of Br. Michael Madden, OFM, 91, on August 4, 2025 in St. Petersburg, Florida. For 62 years as a Franciscan friar, he worked as a cook, maintained facilities and cared for sick and elderly friars along the East Coast. Br. Michael was born on Dec. 13, 1933, …
Word reached the Chancellor’s Office of the passing of Mrs. Maria Nwando Agbata, 92, on Thursday, August 7, 2025 in Nigeria. Mrs. Agbata is the mother of Reverend Alexander Agbata, Chaplain at St. Joseph Hospital, Tampa. Father Agbata is known to several of the Tampa-area priests for having provided weekend assistance in their parishes. Funeral …
Word reached the Chancellor’s Office of the passing of Mr. Anthony Pandolfo, 91, maternal grandfather of Reverend Anthony Astrab, pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, Tampa, on Thursday, August 7, 2025. Mr. Pandolfo was born in Sant’Arsenio, Italy, on January 4, 1934. He resided in Palm Harbor upon his passing and is survived …
The Chancellor’s Office has recently learned that Mrs. Diane Brown, 90, founder of the Marian Servants of Divine Providence®, passed away in the Lord on Saturday, August 2, 2025, following a gradual decline in health. Diane and her late husband of 71 years, Herbert (Herb), were long-time residents of Clearwater. Mrs. Brown was born and …
DIOCESAN OFFICES SEPARA LA FECHA: Misa Hispana Diocesana Anual Estás invitado a la Misa Hispana Diocesana anual. Este año la misa será en honor a Nuestra Señora del Rosario, patrona de Guatemala y será presidida por Mons. Gregory Parkes, Obispo de Saint Petersburg. Te esperamos el sábado, 11 de octubre de 2025 a las 11:00 …
Most Reverend Gregory Parkes, Bishop of Saint Petersburg, announces the following clergy changes, effective September 1, 2025: APPOINTMENT Upon presentation by Reverend Canon Matthew Talarico, I.C.K.S.P., Provincial Superior of the U.S. Province of the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest, Reverend Canon John O’Connor, I.C.K.S.P. to Rector of Epiphany of Our Lord Shrine, Tampa. …
DIOCESAN OFFICES APARTA LA FECHA: Misa Hispana Diocesana AnualEstás invitado a la Misa Hispana Diocesana anual. Este año la misa será en honor a Nuestra Señora del Rosario, patrona de Guatemala y será presidida por Mons. Gregory Parkes, Obispo de Saint Petersburg. Te esperamos el sábado, 11 de octubre de 2025 a las 11:00 a.m. …
The Chancellor’s Office received notice of the passing of Reverend Julio Rivero, T.O.R., 96 years old, a member of the Third Order Regular of St. Francis for 56 years, on July 11, 2025. He was in hospice care at Saint Francis Friary, Loretto, PA. Father Julio served in our Diocese as Parochial Vicar of St. …
The Chancellor’s Office has learned that Reverend James McAteer, I.C., 89 years old, a member of the Institute of Charity for 61 years, passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025 in Dublin, Ireland, where he was currently living. Father McAteer served in our Diocese as Pastor of St. Theresa Parish, Spring Hill, from August 1999 …
The Office of the Diaconate informs the passing of Mr. Hector Rios Casillas in Mexico on Saturday, June 28, 2025. Mr. Rios is the father of Deacon Hector Rios of St. Mark the Evangelist Parish in Tampa, No further information is available at the moment. Expressions of sympathy can be sent to Deacon Hector Rios …
DIOCESAN OFFICES Pastoral Plan and Mercy Challenge News and Updates If you haven’t already begun, now is the perfect time to dive into detailed planning for your Mercy Event. As the date approaches, early preparation will ensure everything runs smoothly, communicates a message of hope, and offers a truly meaningful experience for your community. Last week, …
Most Reverend Gregory Parkes, Bishop of Saint Petersburg, announces the following clergy changes, effective July 1, 2025: Appointment: Very Reverend Joseph L. Waters, J.C.L, J.V. to the office of Vicar General of the Diocese of St. Petersburg, with other assignments continuing. Monsignor Robert F. Morris will continue to hold the office of Vicar General, as …
DIOCESAN OFFICES Gulf Coast Catholic Magazine Reader Appeal Your support for the Gulf Coast Catholic Magazine Reader Appeal makes a difference! Delivered to registered households four times a year, our magazine is a crucial ministry that empowers us to answer the call to missionary discipleship. Help us reach our $100,000 goal together! Your contributions help …
The Chancellor’s Office has been informed of the passing of Mrs. Marykutty Abraham, 83, on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, in India. Mrs. Abraham is the sister of Reverend Paul Kochu, a retired priest of the Diocese of Saint Petersburg and former pastor of St. Luke the Evangelist Parish, Palm Harbor. A Funeral Mass was held …
The Chancellor’s Office informs that Mr. David Vazhappilly, 90, father of Sister Sherly Vazhappilly, F.S.S.E., Vicar for Religious and Associate Director of Vocations for the Diocese of Saint Petersburg, passed away on June 12, 2025, at his home in India, following a recent illness. Sister Sherly recently traveled to her father’s home and was able …
DIOCESAN OFFICES Gulf Coast Catholic Magazine Reader Appeal Your support for the Gulf Coast Catholic Magazine Reader Appeal makes a difference! Delivered to registered households four times a year, our magazine is a crucial ministry that empowers us to answer the call to missionary discipleship. Help us reach our $100,000 goal together! Your contributions help …
The Chancellor’s Office received the news that Sister Barbara Jean Rosswurm, CSA, former Faith Formation Director at St. Paul Parish, Tampa, passed away on June 5, 2025, at her congregation’s motherhouse, in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. Barbara Jean was born August 2, 1937, in New Haven, Indiana, the daughter of Glenn and Lucille Krick Rosswurm. …
The Chancellor’s Office has learned of the passing of Mrs. Anna Ankrah Adwoa Serwaa Senya, 81, biological mother of Reverend George Gyasi, Parochial Vicar of Resurrection Parish, Riverview. Mrs. Senya passed away on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at Poku Transport Memorial Hospital- Asokwa, Kumasi, Ghana. Father Gyasi also suffered the loss of his adoptive mother, …
DIOCESAN OFFICES Pastoral Plan and Mercy Challenge News and UpdatesEffective communication is essential to the success of our initiative to spread hope through mercy. This week, we focus on developing your communications strategy — a vital step in ensuring your message reaches and resonates with those you hope to engage. Bookmark our webpage for news and …
DIOCESAN OFFICES Wait List in Place for the 2025 Eucharistic EncounterThe 2025 Eucharistic Encounter, is scheduled for Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Amalie Arena, in Tampa. We have now reached capacity with more than 12,000 reserving seats for this free event, featuring Mass, Adoration, and an inspiring line-up of nationally recognized speakers and musicians, all …
The Chancellor’s Office has learned of the passing of Reverend Oscar Zacarias Kozyra, O. de M., 79, a member of the Order of Our Lady of Mercy (Mercedarians), residing in the St. Peter Nolasco Residence, in St. Petersburg, on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, due to complications caused by pneumonia. Father Kozyra was born in Buenos …
DIOCESAN OFFICES Wait List in Place for the 2025 Eucharistic Encounter The 2025 Eucharistic Encounter, is scheduled for Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Amalie Arena, in Tampa. We have now reached capacity with more than 12,000 reserving seats for this free event, featuring Mass, Adoration, and an inspiring line-up of nationally recognized speakers and musicians, …
We have learned from the Vocations Office that Mr. Dale Smith, father of seminarian Austin Smith, passed away on Friday, May 2, 2025 at Tampa General Hospital, following a lengthy battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Mr. Smith is also survived by his wife, Vicki. Austin is currently in formation at St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary, …
The Chancellor’s Office received word that Mr. Raul Camacho, brother of Abbot Isaac Camacho, O.S.B., of Saint Leo Abbey, passed away on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, following a brief illness. No additional details are available at this time. Please keep Abbot Camacho and his family members in your kind thoughts and prayers during this difficult …
Most Reverend Gregory Parkes, Bishop of Saint Petersburg, announces the following clergy appointments, effective July 1, 2025, unless otherwise noted: APPOINTMENTSUpon presentation by Very Reverend James Browne, I.C., Provincial Superior, Institute of Charity (Rosminian Fathers): Reverend Bibin Mathew, I.C. from Parochial Vicar to Pastor of Blessed Sacrament Parish, Seminole.Reverend Richard Pilger, I.C. from Pastor to …
DIOCESAN OFFICES Pastoral Plan and Mercy Challenge News and UpdatesPlanning a successful campaign begins with a clear understanding of your goals, audience, and message. Whether you’re organizing a mercy event or preparing formation materials, thoughtful planning ensures your efforts are meaningful and well-coordinated. As we continue our journey to share hope through mercy, this week we’re …
The Chancellor’s Office received the news of the passing of Mary “Anne” (née Mouch) Hoscheidt on Sunday, March 30, 2025 in Bloomington, Illinois. She was the sister of Monsignor Frank Mouch, retired priest of the Diocese of Venice, residing in our diocese. She was born on July 6, 1929, in Sandusky, Ohio to Charles and …
DIOCESAN OFFICES Pastoral Plan and Mercy Challenge News and UpdatesThank you for your enthusiastic response to the Mercy Challenge. We have now reached over 194,000 acts of mercy. What a blessing! This week, we continue to pray for the repose of the soul of Pope Francis, and look for ways to start small and build momentum. We also …
The Chancellor’s Office received news of the passing of Reverend Harold Brown, C.PP.S, of Celina, Ohio, on March 22, 2025 at Carthagena, Ohio, from heart and kidney failure. Father Harold was born December 29, 1931, in Glynnwood, Ohio, the son of Roy and Alodia [Oen] Brown, who proceeded him in death. Father Harold was ordained …
Most Reverend Gregory Parkes, Bishop of Saint Petersburg, announces the following clergy changes, effective July 1, 2025, unless otherwise indicated: RETIREMENT STATUSReverend Robert J. Schneider, from Pastor of St. Cecelia Parish, Clearwater, granted retirement status. Reverend William J. Swengros, J.C.D., from Pastor of St. Ignatius of Antioch Parish, Tarpon Springs, granted retirement status. Reverend Theodore …
DIOCESAN OFFICES We are approaching “sold out” for the Encounter – RSVP for the 2025 Eucharistic Encounter today!More than 10,000 seats have now been reserved for the 2025 Eucharistic Encounter on Saturday, September 20th at Amelie Arena in Tampa. This free event will feature Mass, Adoration, and an inspiring line-up including: Fr. Mike Schmitz, Bishop David Toups, …
Word reached the Chancellor’s Office of the passing of Sister Marilyn Francoeur, formerly known as Sister Therese Noel Francoeur, on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at the Dominican Life Center in Adrian, Michigan. She was 88 years of age and in the 70th year of her religious profession in the Adrian Dominican Congregation. Sister was born …
DIOCESAN OFFICES We are approaching “sold out” for the Encounter – RSVP for the 2025 Eucharistic Encounter today! More than 10,000 seats have now been reserved for the 2025 Eucharistic Encounter on Saturday, September 20th at Amelie Arena in Tampa. This free event will feature Mass, Adoration, and an inspiring line-up including: Fr. Mike Schmitz, Bishop David …
Clergy Appointments Most Reverend Gregory Parkes, Bishop of Saint Petersburg, announces the following clergy appointments, effective May 1, 2025: APPOINTMENTS Reverend Brian C. Fabiszewski, from Pastor of Most Holy Name of Jesus Parish, Gulfport to Parochial Vicar of Prince of Peace Parish, Sun City Center. Very Reverend Joseph L. Waters, J.C.L., as Parochial Administrator pro tempore …
The Chancellor’s Office received word of the passing of Reverend Paul John Mangiafico, 81, on Saturday evening, April 5, 2025, at Bayfront Hospital, St. Petersburg, following a serious car accident late last week. Father Mangiafico was born on September 1, 1943, in New Britain, Connecticut and was a retired priest of the Archdiocese of Hartford, …
DIOCESAN OFFICES Easter Letter from Bishop Gregory Parkes Bishop Parkes is sharing a letter with an Easter message for the Catholic community on “Five Ways to Celebrate Easter.” Please consider publishing this in your parish bulletins on April 13th or April 20th. The letter is available in English and Spanish. Don’t Miss Out – RSVP …
DIOCESAN OFFICES Easter Letter from Bishop Gregory Parkes Bishop Parkes is sharing a letter with an Easter message for the Catholic community on “Five Ways to Celebrate Easter.” Please consider publishing this in your parish bulletins on April 13th or April 20th. The letter is available in English and Spanish. Marian Congress 2025, Journeying in Hope …
The Chancellor’s Office was recently informed that Reverend Matteo (Matt) Rizzo, 78, a retired priest of the Diocese of Brooklyn, passed away on Thursday, March 20, 2025, after being removed from life support following a heart attack. Father Rizzo was ordained to the priesthood on May 26, 1973, serving for nearly 52 years before his death. …
Word reached the Chancellor’s Office of the passing of Sister Joan Helen Dawson, OSF, on March 16, 2025, in St. Elizabeth Motherhouse, Allegany, NY. Sister Dawson served for many years as the Superintendent of Schools in the Diocese of St. Petersburg. She entered the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany on September 8, 1959, was received into …
DIOCESAN OFFICES Reservations needed – RSVP for the 2025 Eucharistic Encounter today! You are invited to encounter the Eucharist and experience the hope at the 2025 Eucharistic Encounter on Saturday, September 20th at Amalie Arena in Tampa! Don’t miss this free event featuring Mass, Adoration, and an inspiring line-up of nationally recognized speakers and musicians, all …
Most Reverend Gregory Parkes, Bishop of Saint Petersburg, announces the following clergy changes, effective July 1, 2025: APPOINTMENTSRev. Msgr. Michael G. Muhr, from Pastor of St. Lawrence Parish, Tampa, to Director of Ministry to Priests for the Diocese of Saint Petersburg. Monsignor Muhr previously served in this capacity from 2018 to 2022. He was recently …
We sadly inform the passing of Mr. Manuel Morales, on March 11, 2025. Mr. Morales was the father of Madelyn Morales, interim Faith Formation Coordinator for the Diocese of St. Petersburg and former Administrative Assistant to Dr. Lois Locey, Chancellor for Administration / Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Morales died during a medical procedure. Additional details …
DIOCESAN OFFICES Encounter Tampa Bay His Eminence Christophe Cardinal Pierre, Apostolic Nuncio to the U.S., will be the guest moderator for the upcoming Encounter Tampa Bay event, to be held on Friday, March 28, 2025, 7:00-9:00 p.m. at St. Petersburg Catholic High School. The topic of the event is “Hope in the Midst of Suffering.” …
Word reached the Chancellor’s Office of the passing of Mr. Edward Andrade, 71, on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, during a recent hospitalization while awaiting a medical procedure. Mr. Andrade previously served as Principal of St. Patrick Catholic School, Largo, and later worked as a Case Manager for Catholic Charities and as a part-time counselor at …
The Chancellor’s Office has learned that Reverend Demetrio Lorden, 78, passed away peacefully while in a nursing facility near Madrid, Spain, on Thursday, March 6, 2025, at approximately 9:30 p.m. local time (3:30 p.m. Eastern). Father Lorden has been receiving assistance from various health care facilities and family members since suffering a serious injury while …
DIOCESAN OFFICES 2025 Eucharistic Encounter: Reserve your seat today! This Jubilee Year, discover the reason for our hope as 16,000 believers gather for a powerful day of faith, worship, and transformation. The 2025 Eucharistic Encounter is set to ignite hearts on Saturday, September 20th, at Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida with dynamic speakers, Spirit-filled musicians, …
Word reached the Chancellor’s Office of the passing of Reverend Ruskin S. Piedra, C.Ss.R., 90, on December 22, 2024, at St. John Neumann Residence, in Timonium, Maryland. Father Piedra was ordained to the priesthood for the Redemptorist Fathers on June 19, 1960. During his 64 years of priestly ministry, Father Piedra had a local connection …