Catholic diocesan schools give in hurricane relief efforts

ORLANDO | When Hurricanes Helene and Milton hit, Catholic schools throughout the Diocese of Orlando didn’t hesitate to step up and help.

Despite many of their own families dealing with storm-related challenges, students, teachers and families rallied together, finding meaningful …

Catholic Charities steps in to help family after fire

ALTAMONTE SPRINGS | Uriah Frisby heard a loud bang and people screaming outside. It was 1 a.m. He opened his front door to find the next-door apartment in flames and spreading fast. His neighbors were screaming the name of a …

Partnership serves Deltona residents after Milton

DELTONA | Diana Blanco is a Vincentian experienced in helping Deltona residents, but the proximity of Hurricanes Helene and Milton have exacerbated the needs of her community. Together St. Vincent de Paul Society at Our Lady of the Lakes Parish …

Parish sees to the needs of visually impaired child

WINTER PARK | Haylee is a smart, happy 8-year-old girl who loves God and her family. Her mother said she likes to try new things, travel to new places and meet life head on. Her gentle nature has fellow students …

Diocese addresses mental health through conference

ORLANDO | In response to the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops National Campaign for Mental Health, the Diocese of Orlando is hosting a full-day conference on the subject. Coordinators hope the Catholic Mental Health Gathering will provide an opportunity for …

AmeriCorps volunteer renews stay at Catholic Charities

ORLANDO | Joseph Fayed is passionate about his work with Catholic Charities of Central Florida Refugee Services. As part of the AmeriCorps VISTA program, Fayed joined Catholic Charities in January 2023, assisting in volunteer recruitment and youth mentoring of refugees. …

A community comes together to fight cancer

LEESBURG | When Lena took her 13-year-old daughter, Haley, to the doctor Oct. 11, 2023, she had no idea their lives would change overnight.

After several tests and a trip to Shands Hospital in Gainesville, Haley was diagnosed with acute …

Ministry cares for Jesus through hotel ministry

ORLANDO | After retirement, Tom Gawronski sought a ministry to serve. He found the newly formed Lazarus Ministry at his parish, St. Margaret Mary in Winter Park. The ministry cares for residents of extended-stay hotels on Lee Rd. “I kind …

Interpreter translates Mass in an ‘elegant language’

CLERMONT | Selene Squitieri has a passion for American Sign Language, especially if it helps her niece find a deeper love of the Eucharist.

With a cousin who is deaf, Squitieri often found herself making friends in the deaf community. …