CHANGES TO EPIPHANY CATHEDRAL? 

DO YOU KNOW THAT THERE IS A PLAN TO MAKE MAJOR CHANGES TO EPIPHANY CATHEDRAL, including partial demolition, a major expansion, rebuilding, and a Bell Tower, ALL AT AN ESTIMATED COST OF OVER $28 MILLION DOLLARS, 25% of which will be taxed to Diocesan parishes?  

 THIS IS THE PLAN OF THE DIOCESE OF VENICE 

A 7,970-square-foot addition planned for the east side of Epiphany Cathedral; which would also get a covered drive-thru on the west side; a 75-foot bell tower planned just to the north; a 54-foot-tall barrel roof.  

Plans also call for the demolition of the existing eastside entrance and constructing the addition.

The plan includes some substantial demolition, removal of a large portion of the roof and raising it to over fifty feet; adding columns to the interior of the church BUT NO NEW SEATING and will REMOVE 52 PARKNIG PLACES!

The planned work will likely cause long-term disruption to the services provided by the Cathedral, including access to the memorial garden, causing much inconvenience to everyone attempting to participate in those services. 

The Parish Hall will be used for services during construction. 

The cost of the project, ($28,000,000 +) would be borne by the Diocese (50%), the other parishes of the Diocese (25%), and Epiphany Cathedral Parish (25%). The estimated cost is approximately $28 - $32 million dollars. 

IS THIS PLAN ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY OR EVEN DESIRABLE? 

WILL THIS DRAW MORE SOULS TO CHRIST? 

THERE IS AN OLD SAYING, “IF IT AIN’T BROKE, DON’T FIX IT!”

The Cathedral has served very effectively as a place of worship for over 40 years. With minor repairs and routine maintenance, it should last for many years to come.   

Many believe that this plan is not good stewardship, but rather a bad exercise of the time, talent and treasure of the Diocese; of Epiphany parish; and of all the other parishes of the Diocese; and that this plan is not for the glory of God. Many are concerned that parishioners will stop worshiping and donating to Epiphany Cathedral.  

ARE THERE OTHER OPTIONS? 

Perhaps there should be a preferential option for the poor, primarily for Catholic schools, and other charities. We can be better stewards with $28+ million dollars. We can spare the burden of an additional $7 million from fellow parishes dealing with so many issues, including rebuilding from hurricane Ian. 

Let us not demolish the Cathedral and distress, frustrate and seriously inconvenience parishioners, visitors, and the community.   

Are we fulfilling the Mission Statement of Epiphany Cathedral “to be the heart and hands of Christ?”  

If you are concerned about this Diocesan plan, please scroll down to “We need your voice”, fill out the information requested, express your opinions and/or leave your comments and press send.  

You may also express your opinions and comments to Bishop Dewane here: 

Most Reverend Bishop Frank J. Dewane

1000 Pinebrook Rd.

Venice, Fl 34285

Marianne Marziano

Secretary
marziano@dioceseofvenice.org 

PLEASE ADD THIS PRAYER TO YOUR DAILY PRAYER INTENTIONS: 

God, our Heavenly Father, may the Diocesan plan for Epiphany Cathedral be in accordance with your perfect will! All for the glory of God! In the Holy Name of Jesus, Amen.