The Diocese of Venice in Florida will celebrate its 13th annual Veterans Day Catholic Mass to honor veterans on Friday, Nov. 11. The Mass, originally scheduled to be held at The Sarasota National Cemetery, has been moved due to weather constraints. The Mass will now be celebrated at the nearby St. Patrick Parish, 7900 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota.

The Mass will begin at 3:30 p.m., with opening ceremonies at 3:15 p.m. All are encouraged to arrive early. The Most Rev. Frank J. Dewane, Bishop of the Diocese of Venice, will be the principal celebrant of the Mass.

The annual Mass is a spiritual intention of thanking and honoring God for all the men and women who have served our country. It is also an opportunity to honor and pray for those who continue to serve in the Armed Forces of the United States. All military service personnel, both active and retired, are encouraged to wear their uniforms to the Mass.

The Diocese of Venice in Florida is assisted in this Veterans Day effort every year by the Knights of Columbus and students from Cardinal Mooney High School, who work diligently to prepare for this annual event.