Vol. 41: No. 24 ~ July 6, 2026

Official Announcement

Office of the Bishop

 

Disaster Relief

In the wake of the recent earthquakes in Venezuela, the Pastoral Center has received several inquiries regarding a special collection for those impacted by this unfortunate disaster. While a special collection for the earthquake victims is not being requested from our parishes, Bishop Parkes has approved a donation from our diocesan Disaster Relief Fund to the Diocese of La Guaira, where the epicenter of the earthquake was located and where the greatest damage took place. As needed, additional monies from the fund may be sent, as the damage continues to be assessed.


To make donations toward relief efforts for the people of Venezuela and other victims of natural disasters, donations may be made through one of the following methods:

 

Diocese of Saint Petersburg Disaster Relief Fund

The link includes instructions for both mail-in and online donations.

 

Catholic Relief Services

Funds are securely transmitted from Catholic Relief Services to Caritas Venezuela, the international version of Catholic Relief Services.

 

Let us continue to unite our prayers for our sisters and brothers in Venezuela.

Office of the Chancellor for Canonical Affairs


Benedictine Sisters Announce Transition from Monastery to Assisted Living Facility

Saint Leo, Florida — [June 19, 2026] — The Benedictine Sisters of Florida announce that, after a period of prayerful discernment and consultation, the community has made the decision to relocate from the current monastery location to American House – Zephyrhills to ensure the ongoing wellbeing, safety, health care, and spiritual support of the sisters.


“This decision arises from the Sisters’ commitment to care for one another with the compassion and dignity that the Rule of St. Benedict asks of us,” said Sister Tonette Sperando, OSB, Canonical Administrator of the community. “Holy Name Monastery has been a place of prayer, hospitality, and service for generations. As our Sisters’ needs change, we continue that same fidelity by choosing a setting where each sister can receive the level of care she requires while remaining united as a community.”


The transition will take place later this summer in phases over the coming months. The Sisters will continue their daily rhythm of prayer, community, and presence, carrying their Benedictine spirit into their new home. They remain committed to praying for the Church and the world and to staying connected with oblates, friends, and all who have shared life with them over the years.

Ministry Update

Pastoral Center Staff Feature


Robert Jurman, Senior Director of Development

This week, we are excited to spotlight Robert Jurman, our Senior Director of Development! Robert joined the Diocese staff in 2025 and plays a vital role in fundraising. To help everyone get to know him a little better, we asked Robert to share some insights about his work and life.


 View his bio at this link and check out the article about him we recently shared on GulfCoastCatholic.org. 

For the Faithful Departed

Let us keep the souls and the families of the faithful departed in our prayers:



May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed

by the mercy of God, rest in peace!


Bulletin Announcements

View current information that can be included in parish bulletins here.



Thank you for your continued support and prayers.

GulfCoastCatholic.org is a news website to help Catholics know, live and share the faith. You’ll find articles that inform and, hopefully, inspire. 

Important Links
 
 
 
 
 
Rev. Msgr. Robert F. Morris
Vicar General
Diocese of St. Petersburg
727-344-1611 
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