Epiphany Cathedral in Venice was overflowing with Catholics from around southwest Florida – and a host of Church Dignitaries - to witness the ordination of a new Bishop. Frank Dewane will become second Bishop of the Diocese of Venice when Bishop John Nevins retires this later. Dewane says as spiritual leader of the Diocese one of his top priorities will be attracting more to serve.

“I don’t believe we have fewer callings by the holy spirit or god for vocations – I do think there are fewer people responding to it, in the midst of a society that has a great deal it may appear to be to limiting of oneself – and find young people who are able to accept that challenge.”

Dewane comes to Southwest Florida from Rome where he served as undersecretary for the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace. The Diocese of Venice was founded in 1984 – it includes 10 southwest Florida counties – with about 230 thousand Catholics. W-G-C-U’s Valerie Alker will have a full report on the ordination coming up.