Catholic Key | February - March 2026

T H E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E C AT H O L I C D I O C E S E O F K A N S A S C I T Y- S T. J O S E P H

F e b r u ary /mar c h 2 0 2 6 kc s jc at ho lic.o r g

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Everything Jesus is

How friendship and beauty are driving a national surge in conversions

ON THE WAY

LIFE & JUSTI CE

LENT

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THE FINAL CHAP TER

Our Cathedral

Beyond getting even

Return to Reconciliation

Hospice and last rites

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On the Way: Connecting Confirmation, the Cathedral and Catholic identity | Bishop James Johnston Being Catholic is bigger than one’s parish, and the Cathedral is the one church in our diocese we all share.

The magazine of the Catholic Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph

February/March 2026 VOL. 6 | ISSUE 2

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Faith at Work: Dr. Thai Nguyen | Ashlie Hand Meet Dr. Thai Nguyen, family physician at St. Joseph Family Medical Care in Kansas City, where his Catholic identity informs and guides him both professionally and throughout his life.

Bishop James V. Johnston, Jr. PUBLISHER Ashlie Hand EDITOR

Janna Stellwag GRAPHIC DESIGNER

To submit story ideas and news, send emails to hand@diocesekcsj.org Catholic Key (ISSN 2769-2353, USPS 024-190) is a membership publication of the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph, published bimonthly (Feb/Mar, Apr/May, Jun/Jul, Aug/Sep, Oct/Nov, Dec/Jan) by the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph, The Catholic Center, 20 W. Ninth St., Kansas City, MO 64105.

Periodicals Postage Paid at Kansas City, MO and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Catholic Key, The Catholic Center, 20 W. Ninth St., Kansas City, MO 64105. ©2024 Catholic Key, Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph.

On the cover: James Alberty (right) is currently sponsoring his friend, Russ Ward (left), as he prepares to be received into the Catholic Church at Easter Vigil this year.

Photo by Michael Hogan.

C OVER STORY ‘Everything Jesus is:’ How friendship and beauty are driving a national surge in conversions | Sara Kraft The Diocese of Kansas City–St. Joseph has seen strong rates of conversion continuing through the pandemic at levels that matched 2019 and earlier. Russ Ward, a candidate at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in St. Joseph, is preparing to be received in the Catholic Church this Easter. He met his sponsor, James Alberty, through their Protestant church, where they were part of the same accountability group. When James converted to the Catholic Faith at Easter in 2025, Russ had a front-row seat to James’ journey. James’ mentorship and witness to the Faith played an integral role in Russ’ decision to join the Catholic Church as well.

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Saints Perpetua and Felicity come to life in new locally directed musical production | Ashlie Hand Written and directed by Steve Whitson, parishioner at St. Columban Parish in Chillicothe, a new live theatrical production is telling the dramatic story of Saints Perpetua and Felicity and their fellow Christian martyrs, interwoven with the sorrowful mysteries of the Rosary.

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To Serve and Lift | Answering a neighbor’s prayer this Lent | Ashley Everett The Lenten Second Collection benefiting Catholic Charities of Kansas City-St. Joseph will take place at all parishes the weekend of Feb. 21–22.

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Stop the scroll: Why this Paulist Sister is preaching digital silence | Karen Ridder Digital culture doesn’t leave a lot of time or space for silence. Paulist

Sister Nancy Usselmann’s solution is to suggest a media fast.

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Lent: A time to return to the sacrament of Reconciliation | Ashlie Hand If you’ve been away from the sacrament of Reconciliation for a while, the season of Lent is a beautiful time to renew the practice.

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The final chapter: Navigating hospice care and the search for spiritual support | Marty Denzer When a loved one is nearing the end of their life, it can be difficult to know the steps to take to ensure their comfort and dignity. Catholic Community Health (CCH), the only Catholic hospice, home care and home for seniors organization in the Kansas City metro area, is here to help.

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Volunteer Spotlight | Walking with the Lord through service at Morning Glory Ministries | Allison Vrooman As someone who considers acts of service to be her love language, Beth Sullivan found her place serving breakfast and supporting guests seeking emergency assistance at Morning Glory Ministries.

E n E s pa ñ o l

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Buscando el Bien de la Ciudad | Un Examen Cuaresmal de Nuestra Conciencia Política | Por Leyden Rovelo-Krull

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En el Camino | Conectando la Confirmación, la Catedral y la Identidad Católica | Por Obispo Johnston

Ashlie Hand

Karen Ridder

A l l i s o n Vro o ma n

Ma rt y D e n z e r

Sara Kraft

leads the Office of Communications for the Diocese of Kansas City–St. Joseph.

is a Catholic journalist, wife and mother of four in Liberty.

is the communications specialist for the Diocese of Kansas City–St. Joseph.

is a long-time writer in residence for the Catholic Key.

is a freelance writer in St. Joseph.

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C O NN ECTI NG C ONF IRMATION , TH E C ATHE DR A L AN D CATHOL IC IDE NTIT Y

“ His parents used to go every year to Jerusalem for the feast of Passover, and when he was 12 they went up for the celebration as was their custom.”

–Luke 2:41-42

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F ro m t h e B i s h o p Bishop James V. Johnston, Jr. is the seventh bishop of the Diocese of Kansas City– St. Joseph

on t he way

B

y now, most know that the sacrament of Confirmation in the Diocese of Kansas City–St. Joseph will now take place in the sixth grade. In making this change, we join many other dioceses that are making a similar move to provide the grace of the sacrament to our youth at an earlier time in their young lives when they are especially receptive. The lower age will also ensure that many more of our youth receive this very important sacrament.

Another important change is that the celebration will take place at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Kansas City for all. In my recent visits across the diocese to discuss the implementation of our new Youth to Young Adult Initiative, The Way, I received several questions about why Confirmation is moving from the parishes to the Cathedral.

I believe the experience itself is critical to our children’s formation in Catholic identity. I am surprised at how many people, youth and adults, have never been to their Cathedral. I want to help our youth to know that being a Catholic is not limited to their parish. While the parish is the primary community in which they worship,

share life in a loving community and serve, they are also a member of a diocese, in communion with their bishop who is a successor to the apostles and, through that, in communion with the pope and every other diocese in communion with him. I fear that without an experience of the broader Catholic Church, many Catholics can drift into a form of “congregationalism.” Being Catholic is bigger than one’s parish, and the Cathedral is the one church in our diocese we all share.

In Scripture, we see an experience of the Holy Family that illustrates an important example for us all. Mary and Joseph brought Jesus to the Temple in Jerusalem as part of their devout observance

of Jewish law (cf. Lk 2:41ff), and that took several days on foot! This ritual observance served to reinforce every Jew’s identity as a member of God’s people and connected them to their brothers and sisters in faith beyond Nazareth. Something similar is needed in our own experience as God’s people, the Church.

I believe that experiences are powerful teachers and those memories endure throughout one’s life. If a child makes only one trip to their Cathedral, I can think of no better occasion than the reception of such a significant sacrament as Confirmation. The sacrament itself is in most instances reserved for the bishop

to confer. Going to the Mother Church of the diocese, the Cathedral, where the bishop’s chair, or cathedra, is, will reinforce the significance of the celebration and its memory.

I realize celebrating all our youth Confirmations at the Cathedral will require those who live further from Kansas City to make a bigger travel commitment. One of the blessings that I found upon my arrival 10 years ago was that our Cathedral is in the center of the diocese and reachable by most in less than two hours.

Given that this is a once in a lifetime trip for such a momentous occasion, it is not unreasonable, since most people already travel even greater distances for other special occasions and events.

I love to travel across our diocese, and I look forward to adding more extended visits to our parishes on Sundays and other occasions where I can celebrate Mass and encounter many more parish communities in our diocese.

As we begin this new arrangement, it will no doubt be a learning experience. Much work has gone into making the celebration of Confirmation beautiful and memorable for our children and their families. Nevertheless, there will likely be some “hiccups” along the way this first time around. I look forward to welcoming you personally and celebrating with you and our children in our historic and beautiful Cathedral.

CATHEDRAL: The official church of the bishop of a diocese. The Greek word cathedra means chair or throne; the bishop’s “chair” symbolizes his teaching and governing authority and is located in the principal church, or “cathedral,” of the local diocese of which he is the chief pastor. (Catechism of the Catholic Church)

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Encounter Christ PLAN YOUR RETREAT FOR 2026

In Northwest Missouri, Conception Abbey’s Benedictine retreats draw from more than 1500 years of wisdom in the Benedictine tradition and are rooted in the principles outlined by St. Benedict in his Holy Rule.

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Four conferences given by a Benedictine monk, intended to lead the retreatant to encounter Christ Participation in the Divine Office and Mass with the monastic community Specific times for personal prayer and lectio divina Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and the Sacrament of Reconciliation Silence and a technology “fast”

cat ec hi s m corner

Grace received, grace lived The true greatness of Mary

By Marc Cardar o n e l l a

Getty Images/Ludmila Lysak

I want to reflect on how the Annunciation reveals the true greatness of Mary.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church (494) says, “At the announcement that she would give birth to ‘the Son of the Most High’ without knowing man, by the power of the Holy Spirit, Mary responded with the obedience of faith … Thus … Mary becomes the mother of Jesus. Espousing the Divine will for salvation wholeheartedly, without a single sin to restrain her, she gave herself entirely to the person and to the work of her Son; she did so in order to serve the mystery of redemption with him and dependent on him, by God's grace.”

I want to highlight one phrase: "Mary responded with the obedience of faith." To prepare her

for this, God gave her special gifts. At the Annunciation, the angel’s greeting shows that Mary was gifted with more grace than any other human person ever had or ever will have. Preserved from original sin from the moment of her conception, Mary remained entirely free from sin throughout her life.

These truths matter. Yet they do not exhaust the meaning of her holiness; Mary's greatness is not found only in her privileges. Rather, the greater wonder is what Mary did with the grace she received.

Pause a moment to consider this: God’s entire plan of salvation depended on Mary’s decision.

Thousands of years of preparation came down to the choice of a young girl. What if she said no?

What if she wanted other things for the rest of her life?

When the angel came to her, the invitation was not easy or abstract; it carried real consequences. Her reputation, her relationships and her future were suddenly uncertain. She was asked to surrender the life she had imagined and embrace one she could not fully see.

To understand this more clearly, consider Eve. She, too, was created without original sin. She had the same gifts as Mary. However, Eve chose herself. She grasped at what was not hers to take. Pride

distorted trust, and disobedience followed. Through that choice, death entered the human story.

Mary stood at a similar crossroads, but instead of grasping, she freely cooperated with God’s plan for salvation. Her obedience was not passive; it was courageous.

Mary’s fiat was a genuine act of self-gift. While she had the plenitude of grace, grace does not eliminate freedom. She did not cling to her own designs — even though they were good and innocent. Instead, she responded to God, entrusting herself entirely to him, accepting a path that would bring both profound joy and deep suffering.

Her sinlessness and holiness were the fruit of a will continually aligned with God’s will. The yes she spoke at the Annunciation was not an isolated moment; rather, it was the expression of a lifelong habit of faithfulness.

She said yes because she had always said yes to God in everything.

Mary’s example invites us to ask: do we truly trust God, even when his will disrupts our plans?

Are we willing to surrender not only what is sinful but also what is good when God asks for more?

True freedom is found in self-gift, not self-assertion. Eve’s inward turn led to death; Mary’s outward trust brought life. That same choice meets us daily, often quietly. Holiness is not one heroic act, but a lifetime of faithful “yeses.”

Ma rc C a rda r o n e lla is the director of the Office of Catechesis and Faith Formation

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Fa i th at w o r k

Dr. Thai Nguyen,

St. Joseph Family Medical Care Clinic

By A s h l i e H a n d P h o t o by Mi c h a e l H o ga n

D R . T H A I N G U Y E N was not only born and raised in the Catholic Church — he even lived on Catholic Church property until he moved away to college. His parents immigrated to the United States from Vietnam in 1975 after the war and were sponsored by the Diocese of Lafayette in Louisiana. The diocese relocated his parents, along with a few other families, to St. Helena Parish, where they were able to live and settle on the open land that the church had available.

After his 30-minute school bus ride home, he had just enough time to drop off his backpack and sprint to attend daily Mass at 4 p.m. He became an altar server in second grade, which rooted his Faith. In 2009, he made the pilgrimage to the Holy Land with three priests and 40 other pilgrims. It was in the Holy Land where he met his wife, Ruth Ann. Dr. Nguyen was trained at Our Lady of the Angels, a Catholic hospital associated with Louisiana State University. He has been involved with different Catholic medical organizations on the national and local levels to promote the principles of the Catholic faith in the practice of medicine.

“These paths are narrow and wide but always through him, with him, and in him.”

Q: How do you express your Catholic Faith during the work day?

A: My Catholic Faith is every part of my professional identity.

I allow my Catholic Faith and trust in God to guide me professionally.

Patients usually identify me as a Catholic by looking at my socks.

I wear socks with the images of the Holy Spirit, Blessed Mary and saints. They often help open the conversation for Catholic patients to discuss their health and how it aligns with being Catholic.

Q: When is it easy to express your Faith in a professional setting?

When is it more challenging?

A: I find it easy to express my Faith at work when my patients are also Catholic. They don't always tell me they are Catholic, but by the way

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they carry themselves, speak and live, I can usually see their Catholic Faith as I step in the exam room. I love seeing their miraculous medals around their neck or wrist. I have also spotted a Rosary here and there.

I find it challenging at times when patients are not familiar with the Catholic Faith, especially here at a Catholic hospital. Of all the hospital beds in the United States, 1 of every 6 are Catholic. Therefore, Catholic identity has a tremendous impact in health care and medicine. For patients that are not familiar with how the Catholic Faith and medicine meet, I take the time to sit and openly talk to them.

Q: What are some practical ways that you incorporate prayer into your work day?

A: My work day does not start until after my morning prayers. I start my work day at the hospital chapel. I spend time with the Eucharist and the beautiful glass window behind the tabernacle in silent prayer.

There is also daily Mass on Monday and Wednesday here at noon to recharge for the rest of the afternoon with patients.

Q: Does your Catholic Faith influence your interactions and decisions throughout the work day?

A: As a physician, we clean and wash our hands often, especially prior to seeing a patient. I take this short time to ask Jesus let my hands be an instrument of his healing hands.

In God's hand is the soul of every living thing, and the life breath of all mankind. (Jb12:10) Q: What is your go-to Catholic/Christian/faith-based podcast, app, radio program or station?

A: Magnifcat, Relevant Radio

DR . NGUYEN AND HIS WIFE are members of Cure of Ars Parish in Leawood, Kansas. Read more from our conversation with Dr. Nguyen at catholickey.org.

L i fe & J u sti c e

“In these great 90 days, we spend Lent in quiet, reflective ways that beckon us to deeper prayer, interior growth and strengthening our relationship with the Lord.”

Beyond ‘getting even’

Unpacking the biblical meaning of justice

W

Getty Images/Olga Pankova

hen we hear “justice” in 21st-century America, we usually think of court justice or street justice, which makes us think of getting even. But the biblical and spiritual notion of justice is quite different. It’s not about getting even but about getting right.

As people of God, we are to work for justice: get right with one another, with ourselves, with the world and especially with God.

By Fat her Do n Far nan Pastor, St. Francis Xavier, St. Therese Little Flower and St. James Parishes (Kansas City)

Faith incorporates justice.

Faith-in-action is the Christian lifestyle. Our diocese, like many of our parishes, has a life and justice focus that is carried out by numerous groups. In the three urban Kansas City parishes where I serve, it takes various forms based on group interests, neighborhood concerns, political climates and changing times. Many areas of focus are related to direct services

addressed by our food pantries, meal sites, emergency assistance programs, outreach to immigrants, an elementary school and other services, but some are related to systemic problems (poverty, racism, crime, food waste and redistribution, education offerings, immigration laws, etc.).

Though these things change, our commitment to Jesus’s Gospel message which emphasizes social justice — care for the lowly and marginalized members of society — never changes.

As winter longs for spring, the Church emphasizes how Lent also longs for Easter. In these

great 90 days, we spend Lent in quiet, reflective ways that beckon us to deeper prayer, interior growth and strengthening our relationship with the Lord.

This is, in part, so that, after the 40-day journey of faith, we can more genuinely activate our faith during the 50 days of Easter in imitation of early disciples, who also offered direct services to widows, orphans, lepers and others in need, while simultaneously contemplating fundamental challenges like religious persecution, government intrusion and getting along with people of different beliefs or ideologies.

IF YOU ARE INTERE STED in joining concerted efforts for justice, contact Deb Sheppard at the diocesan Office of Life & Justice (sheppard@diocesekcsj.org) or join the good works at your parish to help us get right.

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fe atu r e

You are not alone

P R AY E R I N T E N T I O N S F RO M O U R DIOCESAN IMMIGRANT COMMUNITY

T

he monarch butterfly's incredible 3,000mile journey mirrors the long, difficult and transformative journeys of immigrants seeking a better life, highlighting their courage and determination. Many migrants, refugees and immigrants in our diocese are facing difficult situations and have asked for our prayers.

Specific intentions are included here, or you may pray that the inherent dignity of every person, regardless of immigration status, will be affirmed.

Pray for the immigration situation of my sisters, that their immigration appointments may arrive soon. (Juana, Maria Luisa and Esmeralda). May God bless them.

If it is God’s will, may my and my husband’s documents arrive soon and without difficulties.

Thank you.

For my wife, who will have her immigration interview in April. Thank you.

That our Lord may help me obtain legal residency in this country, if it is his Divine will that I remain here longer.

For my family members and their visa process, that God may open doors for them and that everything be according to his will.

BY C ATH O L IC K EY STAF F

VISIT JUSTICEFORIMIGR ANTS.ORG FOR MORE INFORMATION AND PR AYER IDE AS.

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The Easter Triduum What happens liturgically and why

Holy Thursday • • • • •

The Mass of The Lord’s Supper Jesus celebrated the last supper with his disciples.

This is when the Mass, the Eucharist, was instituted.

Also known for the optional washing of the feet.

Jesus then suffered the agony in the garden of Gethsemane.

Good Friday • • • •

The Passion of the Lord Jesus suffered, was condemned, and died on the cross.

Darkness covered the land and Jesus was laid in the tomb.

Good Friday is celebrated with solemn intercessions and Adoration of the Holy Cross.

Holy Saturday • • • •

•

Jesus was in the tomb on this day.

Easter Vigil in the Holy Night starts after nightfall on Saturday.

Blessing of the Easter fire and the Paschal Candle at the vigil.

Sacraments of initiation for those entering the church are also often celebrated at the vigil.

A renewal of Baptismal promises for all.

CARE

Easter Sunday •

Mass of the Resurrection of the Lord (Saturday night

into Sunday)

• •

Christ is risen!

Beginning of the Easter Season, which continues for 50 days and concludes with the feast of Pentecost.

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c ov e r s to ry

‘

Everything Jesus is

How friendship and beauty are driving a national surge in conversions

In April 2025, the National Catholic Register reported that many dioceses across the U.S. saw sharp growth in converts to the Catholic Faith last Easter. From a 23 percent increase in the Archdiocese of Detroit and the Diocese of Allentown, Pennsylvania, to a 44 percent increase in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, many have seen upwards of a 75 percent to 100 percent increase in conversions since 2019. The Diocese of Kansas City–St. Joseph has remained mostly steady, with strong rates of conversion continuing through the pandemic at levels that matched 2019 and earlier.

“I want everything Jesus is, and nothing he is not,” explained Russ Ward. Russ is a candidate at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in St. Joseph, preparing to be received in the Catholic Church this Easter. Russ is a special education teacher at Central High School in St. Joseph, and he and his wife Summer have a freshman and an eighth grader.

His sponsor, James Alberty, was an integral part of his journey to the Catholic Church. “I was very encouraged by James’ willingness to let God take him where he wills and his faith and perseverance,” stated Russ.

The relationship between an unbaptized catechumen, or a baptized candidate, and sponsor is important because it provides a lifelong bond of support and mentorship between the two individuals. James and Russ have a history of supporting each other in their respective faith journeys. This relationship has only grown since James became Russ’ sponsor.

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’

By S a ra K ra f t | P h o t o s by Mi c h a e l H o ga n

“I was very encouraged

by James’ willingness to let God take him where he wills and his faith and perseverance.”

James Alberty (left) joined the Catholic Church last Easter and is now serving as a sponsor for his friend, Russ Ward (right) who is preparing to be received into the Catholic Church at Easter this year.

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“The gentleman presented an argument I just believed.

Jesus was very clear –

‘This is my body, this is my blood.’”

James entered the Catholic Church at Easter 2025. Russ had a front row seat to James’ journey to the Catholic Church. The two men were in the same accountability group at their Protestant Church and had previously struck up a friendship. James considered Russ his mentor in that group and Russ continued to support James throughout his entry into the Catholic Church. Later, in large part due to James’ witness, Russ decided to join the Catholic Church.

In fall 2024, James was a Protestant graduate student at Missouri Western State University (MWSU). He was seeking a faith-based college group to aid his spiritual life. James began attending the MWSU Catholic Newman

Russ Ward’s Protestant roots have given him a strong Biblical foundation which he now sees coming to life in the Catholic Mass.

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Candidate Russ Ward has begun praying the Rosary daily and has found great comfort in his relationship with the Blessed Mother.

Center for free dinner. At a college retreat, he encountered the beauty of the Church and met Max Pawlowski, director of campus ministry at the Northwest Missouri State University Newman Center. As a former Bible college graduate, James liked to debate and found both Newman Centers a great place for that. “Max is really smart, and he started beating me every time,” James stated. Eventually, he began to wonder if the Catholic Church was right. A friend encouraged James to begin Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) classes to learn more about the Catholic Church and even called his parish to get information on classes.

While James attended OCIA classes, he began to feel closer to God. He then realized he was moving in the right direction and decided to join the Catholic Church.

Throughout this time, James continued to go to his accountability group co-led by Russ at his Protestant church, and James continued to share with Russ about his faith journey.

During this time, Russ’ faith journey was also leading him to the Catholic Church. When asked what led him to the Catholic Church, Russ pointed at James and stated, “This guy, for one.”

As a senior in high school, Russ’ mom passed away unexpectedly. That was the jumping off point for Russ to contemplate what happens after death. He then met Jesus in college and primarily attended non-denominational churches. He met and married his wife, Summer, and they had two children together.

Russ enjoyed watching YouTube videos of a Protestant apologist. In one video, the apologist debated with an Orthodox gentleman.

“The gentleman presented an argument I just believed,” Russ explained. This was the jumping off point for some self-reflection.

“Jesus was very clear — ‘This is my body, this is my blood,’” Russ realized.

Russ continued to feel nudged to learn more about the Catholic Church. On Good Friday 2025, Russ told James he wanted to experience Catholic worship and asked James if he could attend with him. “One of the aspects that really got to Russ,” explained James regarding Good Friday Service, “was the kissing the feet of Jesus on the cross.”

With his Protestant roots, Russ is very familiar with the Bible. “Going to Mass, everything just kept coming to life,” he explained.

Russ really appreciates the depth and fullness of the Gospel, the beauty of the churches and the reverence in the Mass.

Russ believes losing his mother early allowed him to more readily accept Mary’s role in the Catholic Church. He began to pray the Rosary nearly every day and developed a relationship with Mary. After praying the Rosary regularly, Russ has noticed that a temptation he has struggled with for years has been removed.

Russ has been amazed at his opportunity to witness to others. “People are affected by this, and I am going to see it through,” he stated.

One colleague was a fallen-away Catholic and has started attending Mass again after hearing Russ’ story. Other friends and colleagues he learned were Catholic, and that has deepened his relationship with them as well. Russ’ biggest challenge to entering the Catholic Church has been tension within his family. At times, it has been a very lonely journey, as Russ’ family

ARE YOU, OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW, INTERE STED IN LE ARNING MORE ABOUT JOINING THE CATHOLIC CHURCH? Visit kcsjcatholic.org/connect/parishes to find the parish closest to you and call to ask about their OCIA process.

For a general overview, visit usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachings/whowe-teach/christian-initiation-of-adults.

Russ’ journey has also inspired James, helping him grow and sparking his curiosity, making him more serious about his own Catholic Faith.

remains at their non-denominational church.

However, James has worked to support Russ.

James started attending the same parish and Mass with Russ to give him support. They talk about James’ experience as a Catholic and what Russ is learning in OCIA classes.

Likewise, Russ’ journey has inspired James.

“Russ has helped me grow as a Catholic,” James explained. “Seeing his love for the Catholic Church has helped me grow and sparked my curiosity. It helped make me more serious about my own faith.”

Russ is most excited to receive the Eucharist for the first time and has been logging a countdown to the Easter Vigil on his phone since July. James has shared his own experience with Russ, “Receiving the Eucharist for the first time was great. I finally felt the completeness of my Catholic transformation.

I am Catholic now — I am in it for life.” Russ looks forward to the same peace and knows receiving Communion is telling everyone he wants to be part of this Catholic family.

“God wants to redeem me,” explained Russ, “and my spirit, but also wants to prepare my body for resurrection. It’s humbling.”

“Receiving the Eucharist for the first time was great.

I finally felt the completeness of my Catholic transformation.

I am Catholic now —

I am in it for life.”

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m a r r i ag e

FRIENDSHIP in marriage

by D i n o D u ra n d o

G

enuine friendship is marked by the combination of freedom and love. This is true in human friendship and in the friendship that Jesus invites us into: “I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you.” (Jn 15:15)

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other married couples — is a tremendous help because this provides at least two highly valuable things.

1. Friends who are rooting for you and hope for good things for your marriage. 2. Friends who will do something about it through acts of service. This can take the form of a more experienced couple who may have good advice or guidance to offer.

Equally valuable are the peers who are heading in the same direction and hold complementary values that see the value of lifelong marriage commitment. Developing dependable and trustworthy friendships that support your marriage is one of the best ways to surround yourself with community support, which is a hallmark of healthy culture and society.

Perhaps this is a prompt for you to discuss the dynamics of friendship with your spouse. Are you investing in deepening your own friendship with each other? Have you made time for this (dates, regular discussion time, retreats

together, small trips)? It could also be a prompt for you to evaluate your current friendships.

Are any of them toxic or even just causing division between you and your spouse? Do you need to seek new friendships with other married couples who could provide some measure of support as described above? Finally, is God inviting you and your spouse to a deeper friendship with him?

He does call us friends after all.

Seek him in prayer this Lent and see what happens.

D i n o Dur a n do is director of the Office of the Domestic Church and Discipleship. He has been married to his best friend, Cathy, for 28 years and they have 10 children and 2 grandchildren.

Getty Images/MoMo Productions

In friendship, one is free to bestrength and the development come, remain or end the relationof virtue. Consider how genuine ship. It would not be a genuine friendship “requires such traits as friendship if some form of coerhonesty, trust, loyalty, goodwill cion, pressure or manipulation and sacrifice … to be a friend one were present. Love understood as must be good — a man or womwilling or desiring goodness for/ an of virtue, of character. Aristoto the other is also essential, even tle says inner goodness is what if we might not commonly use makes people appealing … it is the word love in this way. Friends what draws us to one another.” are free to enjoy one anoth(GF, page 59) This is the connecer’s company as often as they tion between friendship and choose,and they marriage. Those may spend sigwho develop the TO GENUINELY LOVE nificant amounts capacity for genANOTHER REQUIRE S of time together, uine friendship but they don’t give are then able to inT HAT ONE WILL their entire life to clude this quality GOODNE SS FOR T HE each other. That of their character OTHER AND THIS is the pledge of and discover and marriage and the deepen the friendB EC OME S A HOPE nature of a covship possible F OR GOOD FOR T HE enant. “In this within marriage.

F RIEND OR B ELOVED sense, friendship To genuinely is very different love another reAND ACT IONS TO HELP from the commitquires that one B RING IT AB OUT. ” ment one makes will goodness for in marriage.” (Philip the other, and this Halfacre, Genuine Friendship, page 53) becomes a hope for good for the Marriage involves the comfriend or beloved and actions to mitment of covenant that goes help bring it about. It is expressed beyond mere friendship. One in service. This is why the sacrastill acts with freedom and love, ment of Marriage is called a sacbut this is now directed towards rament of service. Additionally, the meaning and purpose of the it requires trust. covenant — lifelong and indissolFriendships that support one’s uble union. Like genuine friendmarriage are also essential. Havship, marriage requires character ing genuine friends — most often

hispanic ministry

Seeking the good of the city A LENTEN E X AMINATION OF OUR POLITICAL C ONSCIENCE

FEBRUARY AND MARCH SIT IN AN IN-BETWEEN SPACE. The year is no longer new, Lent arrives to reorder our priorities and public life in the United States begins to intensify. Before the political season begins, the Church offers a period of calm for reflection and renewal. Lent is not only about what we give up. It is also about letting God shape how we show up in the world, including how we speak, listen and participate as citizens.

This is not about politics. It is about discipleship. It is about how we, as Catholics, can shape the common good of the nation where God has placed us.

So, in the spirit of Lent, here is an examination for our political conscience to help us reflect on whether we are in the body politic or the body of Christ:

1. HO W DO I SPE AK ABOUT PEOPLE I DISAGREE WITH? It’s not about “What do I think?”, but “How do I speak?” Tone says more about our soul than our opinion does. Lent is a good time to ask whether our language reflects Cristo or cable news. a. Do I exaggerate? Mock? Assume the worst?

A simple rule of thumb: If I would not say it in front of my abuelita, I probably should not say it online.

2. DO I LET POLITICAL IDENTITY REPLACE MY CATHOLIC IDENTITY? Parties and platforms can be helpful, but none of them are the Gospel. Not one.

Catholic social teaching invites us to form our conscience carefully, not outsource it. So this Lent, ask: a. Is my faith informing my politics, or are my politics quietly shaping my faith?

This is not a guilt question. It is an invitation to reorder our loves.

Getty Images/Douglas RissingProductions

3. DO I SEEK TRUTH, OR DO I SEEK C OMFORT ?

We all like news that confirms what we already believe.

It is wonderfully satisfying and wonderfully dangerous.

Lent nudges us to ask: a. Do I avoid perspectives that challenge me? b. Do I listen only to the voices that sound like me?

A well-formed conscience is like a well-balanced dieta.

A little variety is good for the soul.

4. DO I SEE PEOPLE AS PROBLEMS OR PERSONS? Catholic social teaching begins and ends with the dignity of the human person.

But in political conversations, it is easy to turn people into issues.

“Those voters.” “Those immigrants.” “Those people.”

Lent invites us to remember: a. Every person has a name, a story, and a life known to God. Seeing the human person first is not naïve. It is discipleship.

5. DO MY POLITICAL HABITS MAKE ME MORE LOVING, OR MORE ANGRY? This one is simple but revealing. So ask yourself: a. Does my engagement leave me anxious, resentful, or cynical?

The fruits of the Spirit do not stop at the church door. They apply to comment sections, too. Faithful citizenship should stretch my heart, not harden it.

THINGS HOPED FOR

Lent asks us to return to the Lord with our whole heart. Not just our private sins but the parts of our life that shape how we live together as a society. If we allow God to enter the way we speak, debate and participate in civic life, he softens what has grown hardened and heals what has become divided. That is the beginning of true faithful citizenship: not perfection, but conversion.

Hispanic Catholics in particular know something about living in the “in between.” Two cultures, two languages, two worlds that somehow fit in the same corazón. That experience teaches us resilience, humor and compassion — qualities America desperately needs. If we let Lent form

By L e y d e n not only our prayer life but also our political habits, then Rove l o -K ru l l even our civic engagement becomes an act of hope. In Director of seeking the good of the city, we offer the best of who we the Office of are, and we let God do the rest.

Hispanic Ministry

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M i n i s try s p o tl i g h t

Saints Perpetua and Felicity come to life in new locally directed theatrical production

By Ashlie Ha n d | P h o t o s by Mi c h a e l H o ga n

Steve Whitson, parishioner at St. Columban Parish in Chillicothe, wrote and is directing a live theatrical performance based on the diary of Saint Perpetua April 17-19.

IF YO U HA D T HE O P PORT UN IT Y TO SE E A SAIN T C OME T O L I F E , WAT C H T H E M N AV I G AT E T H E I R S T O RY A N D W I T N E S S T H E I R D E V O T I O N R I G H T I N F R O N T O F YO U , W O U L D N ’ T T HAT B E AN AM A Z IN G GIF T ?

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That very opportunity will be available to audiences April 17-19, when Perpetua, Felicity and the Sorrowful Mysteries is performed live on stage at Bishop Hogan Memorial School in Chillicothe. This live theatrical performance tells the dramatic story of Saints Perpetua and Felicity and their fellow Christian martyrs at the Roman Amphitheater in Carthage, Africa, in the year 203 AD. Written and directed by Steve Whitson, parishioner at St. Columban Parish in Chillicothe, the story is adapted from the diary of Saint Perpetua and interwoven with the sorrowful mysteries of the Rosary.

“I want this show to take our audience back in time and have an experience of faith,” Whitson

said. The lesson, he explains, is that if we truly follow Christ today, persecution is inevitable. “The example that Perpetua and Felicity left us is that our Faith requires a lot of us including sharing our wealth with those less fortunate, and showing love to those who are persecuting us.”

Whitson’s journey to playwright began when he reluctantly followed his wife and children into acting with their local community theater in Montana. After moving his family to Missouri, he was inspired to write a play about the miracle at Fatima, which he cast with children from Bishop Hogan Memorial School in 2012. He revisited the play and re-staged it with a few adjustments in 2023,

Getty Images/sarayut Thaneerat

The show features 74 cast members including students from Bishop Hogan Memorial School, as well as adults and seasoned actors from the community of Chillicothe.

this time set to music with the help of a friend, Eric Martin.

“It’s more rewarding to see something you’ve written come to life, and encourage actors to become their characters,” Whitson commented when comparing his experience with acting versus writing and directing. Through prayer and spiritual guidance from the Lord’s hand, he works through any self-doubt about his own abilities or roadblocks along the way.

Whitson has assembled a team that includes his wife, as stage manager, and Eric, who composed the music for this show, as music director, pianist and singer.

In all, there will be a full crew of 15-20 individuals working behind the scenes.

The show’s 74 actors will be cast almost entirely with students from Bishop Hogan Memorial School, some of whom participated in Whitson’s Fatima production. A few of the larger roles will be cast with adults and seasoned actors from the community of Chillicothe, including the roles of Perpetua and her father.

Whitson can’t explain it, but says he’s always had a devotion to Perpetua. He is especially drawn to the relationship between Perpetua and her father, his devotion to protecting her and Perpetua’s ultimate sacrifice for her Faith.

“Perpetua took up her cross willingly, and she considered martyrdom a blessing. One of my favorite lines in the show is

when Perpetua says, ‘One doesn’t choose to be a martyr but is chosen.’” Whitson explains.

Whitson acknowledges that we don’t know as much about Felicity, only what Perpetua wrote about her, but notes their inclusion in the canon of the Mass speaks to their significance to our Faith.

He points out that Christians today may not be thrown into an arena to be devoured by beasts, but adds, “This story is particularly relevant for us today as culture is becoming more and more scrutinizing of religion, especially Christianity. Theirs is a tremendous example of the Faith, dying to yourself and living for Christ.

It’s an amazing story,” he said.

The performance runs two and a half hours, with a 15-minute intermission.

Audiences are encouraged to purchase tickets online in advance at perpetua-live.com. All proceeds support Bishop Hogan Memorial School.

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to serve and li ft

Answering a neighbor’s prayer this Lent

By A shl ey Ev er et t, Director of marketing & communications, Catholic Charities of Kansas City–St. Joseph

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few weeks ago, after a long morning of meetings and the usual rush that fills our Serve & Lift Center, I felt the familiar beginnings of an ocular migraine. Anyone who has had one knows that shimmering edge of vision — the warning sign — can bring a wave of anxiety. I slipped quietly into our chapel to wait it out, letting the stillness settle me.

As I sat in the soft light of the stained glass, my own stress slowly gave way to a deeper awareness: on the other side of that chapel wall, our waiting room was filled with people carrying far heavier burdens than mine. Mothers praying to keep their children housed. Fathers looking for work. Seniors stretching medications and groceries further than their budgets allow. Individuals battling loneliness, illness, or the quiet despair that comes from feeling forgotten.

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Sitting there, I felt called not to pray for my own peace, but to pray for every single person who would cross our threshold that day. Then I remembered the prayer box at our front desk.

I went to find it, along with the worn manila envelope that holds the handwritten intentions neighbors leave with us to pray over, little folded scraps of hope entrusted to God. Back in the chapel, I read each prayer slowly.

Some were only a few words. Others poured out the heartbreak of a family in crisis or a person fighting to hold on. These were not strangers. These are our neighbors — your neighbors, asking God for help, for hope, for relief.

I share this moment because, this Lent, you have the chance to be the answer to one of these prayers.

Nearly 150 years of making Christ’s love visible For almost a century and a half, Catholic Charities of Kansas City–St. Joseph has served as a living witness to Christ’s command to care for the least among us. Our mission has always been simple: walk with people in their hardest moments and help restore the dignity that belongs to every child of God. Catholic Charities services are available for all the 27 counties in the diocese. That translates to more than 37,000 individuals finding help when they needed it most. This kind of impact is only possible because of your generosity, especially through the Lenten Second Collection.

Wondering how your gifts transform lives?

Every dollar given to the Second Collection for Catholic Charities stays within our diocese and supports programs that serve the needy and lift them to hope:

· Social-emotional learning mentorship for young children and parents · Housing for homeless veterans · Senior housing to protect dignity and support independent living · The Market, which provides nutritious groceries in a respectful, choice-based setting · Deaf & Disabilities Services ensuring accessibility for all · Parish Mental Health Ministries offering support and compassion within parishes For the mother who wrote, “Please help me keep my kids safe.” For the man who prayed, “Lord, I just want to work again.” For the senior who whispered, “I am so lonely.”

You may be the instrument God uses to answer them.

Your gift becomes shelter for a mother and her children. Your gift becomes groceries for a senior choosing between food and medicine. Your gift becomes stability for a father praying to provide.

Your gift becomes an answer to a prayer left in our chapel.

Our locations in both Kansas City and St. Joseph welcome those who are struggling, overwhelmed or simply unsure of where else to turn. Or like me, maybe you just need a quiet place to seek solace and then pray for others. We welcome you to our chapel at the Serve & Lift Center at 8001 Longview Road, Kansas City, Missouri.

The Lenten Second Collection will take place at all parishes the weekend of Feb. 2122. You may also use the envelope mailed to your home or make a secure online gift at: catholiccharities-kcsj.org/secondcollection Beyond giving, I warmly invite you to become part of this mission in other ways:

· Visit our campuses in Kansas City or St. Joseph · Volunteer individually or with your parish · Host a food, hygiene or diaper drive · Pray for the families we serve Every act of charity, large or small, helps make Christ’s mercy visible in our community.

As I think back to that day in the chapel, holding those handwritten prayers, I realize that the work of Catholic Charities is not only social and practical — it is profoundly spiritual. Each day, we encounter people who are crying out to God for help. And each day, through your generosity, we see those prayers answered.

What’s ahead at Catholic Charities of Kansas City-St. Joseph: Social Butterflies Group Workshop For parents and young children—connect, learn, and grow together.

Wednesdays | 10:30 a.m.–Noon | Meeting now 8001 Longview Rd., Kansas City, MO Good Dads Program A supportive program for at-risk fathers.

Wednesdays | 6–8 p.m. | Begins Feb. 11 8001 Longview Rd., Kansas City, MO Register: sbeers@ccharities.com Feb. 21-22 – Second Collection across the diocese February 28 – Hope Ball at Westin Crown Center

· Emergency assistance for those behind on rent or utilities · E mployment helping people find and keep stable work · F inancial literacy to break cycles of stress and instability ·M om’s Empowerment guidance and support for mothers of infants ·A doption services for infants and older youth (8+)

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f e atu r e

Stop the scroll Why this Paulist Sister is preaching digital silence

By K ar en R idder

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I STE R NA NCY USS EL MANN has always been a media lover, but lately she’s found herself telling people to take a break. Her book Media Fasting – Six Weeks to Recharge in Christ provides a guided way to consider media use in a digital culture and examine prayerfully the place it should take in daily life.

The media have changed a lot since Usselmann first took vows 35 years ago.

Digital culture has evolved and continues to change rapidly. The reality of AI development is causing her — a woman who loves “Being absorbed can storytelling, books, a great movie and songs — to see not only sap your sense a need for pause. of who you are, but also Her research showed the avSister Nancy Usselmann, FSP erage human is inundated with take your creativity.” more than 4,800 media messages a day. That’s a new message every 30 seconds over a 24-hour day — or about four but it is created to address that need in the The guided fast aims to help people build messages a minute for every waking moment. brain to keep wanting more,” she said. a new appreciation for silence in today’s cul“Social media took the world by storm.

The spiritual practice of fasting opens a ture and recognize where digital media are Everyone was jumping on. We were all doing way to stop the cycle. Sister Usselmann pres- absorbing too much space in daily life. this. Now, we are thinking, ‘Wait, what’s this ents the spiritual practice of fasting as not “Christ has something to say about doing to our brains and souls?’ I recognized only a way to discipline ourselves, but also everything. The media fast is just another it too in my life. It’s just so absorbing,” said to open our hearts to God and to tune to him. spiritual discipline to regain the dignity of our Sister Usselmann.

“Being absorbed can not only sap your attention — to not just let the digital media Digital culture doesn’t leave a lot of time sense of who you are, but also take your creabsorb our intention, but instead bring it to or space for silence. Usselmann’s solution is ativity. We need to live like real human beings, prayer,” said Sister Usselmann. to suggest a media fast. This is not an eliminot robots,” she said. nation of media completely but a prayerful recognition of where media are present in daily life and an examination of the role they TO FIND OUT MORE about Sister Usselmann’s guided media fast, should play. sign up for a six-week emailed version with tools to help your fast “Digital media are designed to absorb our attention. We do have free will to choose,

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or to purchase the book Media Fasting – Six Weeks to Recharge in Christ, visit paulinestore.com.

f eatu r e

A TI ME TO RE TURN TO THE SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION

By A shl ie Hand

If you’ve been away from the sacrament of Reconciliation for a while, the season of Lent is a beautiful time to renew the practice. As we reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice that freed us from sin, we can also turn to God’s mercy to acknowledge the times we have turned away from him.

When we approach the priest to make our confession, we must confess every mortal sin we can remember but have not confessed or been absolved from before. We are also encouraged to confess venial sins.

The best way to prepare is through an examination of conscience before entering the confessional or approaching the priest.

There are various types of examinations of conscience, but regardless of which one you use to prepare yourself for the sacrament, it should be rooted in Scripture — particularly the Ten Commandments and beatitudes.

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) offers a few examples of Examinations of Conscience that can help you prepare for the sacrament. Scan the QR code on the

right with your smartphone camera to access the online resources.

If it has been awhile or, even if it appears that a more complete examination could be helpful to your encounter with Christ, sometimes during your confession the priest may ask you some questions or walk you through an examination of conscience. “The priest, if there is need, may help the penitent to make an integral confession and, moreover, encourage him or her to repent sincerely for offenses committed against God.” (Order of

“The priest, if there is need, may help the penitent to make an integral confession and, moreover, encourage him or her to repent sincerely for offenses committed against God.”

Penance, 18) This is his responsibility in ensur-

ing that you make a valid confession, thus allowing him to fully absolve you of your sins in the name of Christ and his Church. It’s awesome, once again, to be freed of sin, so just as the prodigal son returned to his father, (Lk 15:11-32) come home to the Father through the sacrament this Lent — and often.

b l ack cath olic s p i r i tu a l i ty

A Lenten journey with Simon of Cyrene

hen the soldiers seized Simon of Cyrene on the road to Calvary, the Gospel tells us simply: “They laid hold of a man, Simon of Cyrene, who was coming in from the country, and on him they laid the cross, to carry it behind Jesus.” (Lk 23:26) Few words, yet full of meaning.

can become a sacred partnership with the Redeemer himself.

Simon’s discipleship was silent but profound. He spoke no words, but his action preached a gospel of compassion and courage. In him, we see faith without fanfare, love lived in the dust of another’s

Cyrene moment, a sharing in the burden that saves.

The Gospels later mention Simon’s sons, Alexander and Rufus, known among the first Christians.

That detail suggests Simon’s encounter with Jesus changed his household forever. Grace ripples

Simon was from Cyrene, in what is now Libya. He was a man of African descent, the only person in the Passion story identified by origin. Dragged from the crowd, he did not choose the cross; it was thrust upon him.

But in that forced act, Simon stepped into the mystery of redemption. His hands touched

pain. His story teaches that holiness often looks like quiet service and not loud recognition.

Lent calls each of us to do what Simon did, take up the cross beside Christ. Sometimes, that means walking with someone through grief, forgiving when it hurts or standing up for truth in a world of indifference. Each act of compassion becomes a small

outward when we serve.

This Lent, may we remember the African who helped Jesus carry the cross. His silent strength still speaks; Faith is not only believing in Christ, it is walking with him. And when we lift the cross from another’s shoulders, even for a moment, we find that Christ has already been walking with us all along.

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the same wood that bore the world’s salvation.

For many Black Catholics, Simon’s story echoes our own history. Our ancestors carried crosses they never asked for, chains of slavery, the sting of racism, the struggle for dignity. Yet, like Simon, they met Christ along the way. They discovered that sharing in suffering

By Fath e r L e o n a rd G i c h e r u,

Getty Images/Anecdonet Com

pastor of St. Monica Parish and Our Lady of Sorrows Parish and Chaplain to the Black Catholic Implementation Team

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Mi ni ster i o Hi spano

Buscando el Bien de la Ciudad

U N E X AMEN CUARE SMA L DE N UE STR A C O N C I E N C I A P O L Í TI C A FEBRERO Y MARZO HABITAN UN ESPACIO INTERMEDIO. El año ya no es nuevo, la Cuaresma llega para reordenar nuestras prioridades y la vida pública en Estados Unidos comienza a intensificarse. Antes de que comience la temporada política, la Iglesia ofrece un período de calma para la reflexión y la renovación. La Cuaresma no se trata solo de lo que dejamos. También se trata de dejar que Dios transforme la manera en que nos presentamos en el mundo, incluida la forma en que hablamos, escuchamos y participamos como ciudadanos.

Esto no se trata de política. Se trata de discipulado. Se trata de cómo, como católicos, podemos construir el bien común de la nación donde Dios nos ha puesto.

Así que, en espíritu cuaresmal, aquí presentamos un pequeño examen para nuestra conciencia política. Una ayuda para reflexionar si estamos viviendo como parte del cuerpo político o del Cuerpo de Cristo:

1. ¿ C ÓMO HABLO DE L AS PERSONAS C ON QUIENE S NO E STOY DE ACUERDO? No se trata de “¿qué pienso?”, sino de “¿cómo hablo?” El tono revela más de nuestra alma que nuestra opinión. La Cuaresma es un buen momento para preguntarnos si nuestro lenguaje refleja a Cristo o a los programas de opinión. a. ¿Exagero? ¿Me burlo? ¿Supongo lo peor?

Una regla sencilla: si no lo diría frente a mi abuelita, probablemente no debería ponerlo en línea.

2. ¿ PERMITO QUE MI IDENTIDAD POLÍTICA REEMPL ACE MI IDENTIDAD CATÓLICA?

4. ¿VEO A L AS PERSONAS C OMO PROBLEMAS O C OMO PERSONAS? La Doctrina Social de la Iglesia comienza y termina con la dignidad de la persona humana. Sin embargo, en las conversaciones políticas es fácil convertir a la gente en “temas.” “Esos votantes.” “Esos inmigrantes.” “Esa gente.” La Cuaresma nos recuerda: a. Que cada persona tiene un nombre, una historia y una vida conocida por Dios.

Ver primero a la persona no es ingenuo. Es discipulado.

5. ¿ MIS HÁBITOS POLÍTIC OS ME HACEN MÁS AMOROSO O MÁS ENOJADO? Esta es sencilla pero reveladora. a. ¿Mi participación me deja ansioso, resentido o cínico?

Los frutos del Espíritu no se quedan en la puerta de la iglesia.

También aplican en los comentarios en redes. La ciudadanía responsable debe estirar mi corazón, no endurecerlo.

C O SAS E S P E R A DAS

Los partidos y plataformas pueden ser útiles, pero ninguno es el Evangelio. Ninguno.

La Doctrina Social de la Iglesia nos invita a formar la conciencia con cuidado, no a delegarla. La Cuaresma nos pregunta: a. ¿Mi fe informa mi política, o mi política está poco a poco moldeando mi fe?

No es una pregunta para sentir culpa. Es una invitación a reordenar mis amores.

Getty Images/Douglas RissingProductions

3. ¿BUSC O L A VERDAD, O BUSC O L A C OMODIDAD? A todos nos gusta la información que confirma lo que ya creemos. Es deliciosamente satisfactoria y peligrosamente cómoda.

La Cuaresma nos empuja a preguntar: a. ¿Evito perspectivas que me desafían? b. ¿Escucho solo a quienes suenan como yo?

Una conciencia bien formada es como una buena dieta.

Un poco de variedad le hace bien al alma.

La Cuaresma nos invita a volver al Señor con todo nuestro corazón. No solo con nuestros pecados privados, sino también con aquellas partes de nuestra vida que influyen en cómo convivimos como sociedad. Si permitimos que Dios entre en nuestra manera de hablar, debatir y participar en la vida pública, Él suaviza lo que se ha endurecido y sana lo que se ha dividido. Ese es el inicio de una verdadera ciudadanía fiel: no la perfección, sino la conversión.

Los católicos hispanos, en particular, sabemos algo de vivir “entre dos mundos.” Dos culturas, dos idiomas, dos realidades que, de alguna manera, caben en el mismo corazón. Esa experiencia nos enseña resiliencia, humor y compasión, cualidades que Estados Unidos necesita con urgencia. Si permitimos que la Cuaresma forme no solo nuestra vida de oración, sino también nuestros hábitos Por Leyden políticos, incluso nuestra participación cívica se convierte Rove l o -K ru l l , en un acto de esperanza. En buscar el bien de la ciudad, Oficina del ofrecemos lo mejor de quienes somos y dejamos que Dios Ministerio Hispano haga el resto.

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C O N E CTAN D O L A C ONF IRMACIÓ N , L A CAT E DR AL Y L A I D ENTI DA D CATÓL ICA

“Los padres de Jesús iban todos los años a Jerusalén para la fiesta de la Pascua y, cuando cumplió doce años, fue también con ellos para cumplir con este precepto.” Lucas 2:41-42

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D e l Ob i s po El obispo James V. Johnston, Jr. es el séptimo obispo de la Diócesis de Kansas City–St. Joseph

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estas alturas, la mayoría sabe que el Sacramento de la Confirmación en la Diócesis de Kansas CitySt. Joseph se llevará a cabo ahora en el sexto grado. Al realizar este cambio, nos unimos a muchas otras diócesis que están tomando una medida similar para brindar la gracia del sacramento a nuestros jóvenes en un momento más temprano de sus vidas, cuando son especialmente receptivos. La edad más temprana también garantizará que muchos más de nuestros niños reciban este sacramento tan importante.

Otro cambio importante es que la celebración se llevará a cabo para todos en la Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción en Kansas City. En mis recientes visitas por la diócesis para discutir la implementación de nuestra nueva iniciativa de niños a adultos jóvenes, The Way (El Camino), recibí varias preguntas sobre por qué la Confirmación se traslada de las parroquias a la Catedral.

Creo que la experiencia en sí es fundamental para la formación de la identidad católica de nuestros niños. Me sorprende cuántas personas, jóvenes y adultos, nunca han estado en su Catedral. Quiero ayudar a nuestros jóvenes a saber que ser católico no se limita a su parroquia. Si bien la parroquia es la comunidad primaria en la que adoran a Dios, comparten la vida en una comunidad amorosa y sirven, también son miembros de una diócesis, en comunión con su obispo, quien es sucesor de los Apóstoles, y a través de eso, en comunión con el Papa y con cualquier otra diócesis en comunión con él.

Temo que, sin una experiencia de la Iglesia Católica más amplia, muchos católicos

puedan derivar hacia una forma de “congregacionalismo”. Ser católico es algo más grande que la propia parroquia, y la Catedral es la única iglesia en nuestra diócesis que todos compartimos.

En las Escrituras, vemos una experiencia de la Sagrada Familia que ilustra un ejemplo importante para todos nosotros.

María y José llevaron a Jesús al Templo de Jerusalén como parte de su devota observancia de la ley judía (cf. Lucas 2:41ss), ¡y eso tomó varios días a pie! Esta observancia ritual servía para reforzar la identidad de cada judío como miembro del pueblo de Dios y los conectaba con sus hermanos y hermanas en la fe más allá de Nazaret. Algo similar es necesario en nuestra propia experiencia como pueblo de Dios, la Iglesia.

Creo que las experiencias son maestros poderosos y esos recuerdos perduran a lo largo de la vida. Si un niño hace un solo viaje a su Catedral, no puedo pensar en una ocasión mejor que la recepción de un sacramento tan significativo como la Confirmación. El sacramento mismo está, en la mayoría de los casos, reservado para ser conferido por el obispo. Ir a la Iglesia Madre de la diócesis, la

Catedral, donde se encuentra la silla del obispo o cátedra, reforzará la importancia de la celebración y su recuerdo.

Soy consciente de que celebrar todas las Confirmaciones de nuestros jóvenes en la Catedral requerirá que aquellos que viven más lejos de Kansas City hagan un mayor compromiso de viaje. Una de las bendiciones que encontré a mi llegada hace diez años fue que nuestra Catedral está en el centro de la diócesis y es accesible para la mayoría en menos de dos horas. Dado que este es un viaje único en la vida para una ocasión tan trascendental, no es algo irrazonable, considerando que la mayoría de las personas ya viajan distancias incluso mayores para otras ocasiones y eventos especiales.

Me encanta viajar por nuestra diócesis y espero con ansias añadir más visitas prolongadas a nuestras parroquias los domingos y otras ocasiones en las que pueda celebrar la Misa y encontrarme con muchas más comunidades parroquiales en nuestra diócesis.

Al comenzar este nuevo esquema, sin duda será una experiencia de aprendizaje. Se ha trabajado mucho para que la celebración de la Confirmación sea hermosa y memorable para nuestros niños y sus familias.

No obstante, es probable que haya algunos “contratiempos” en el camino en esta primera vez. Espero darles la bienvenida personalmente y celebrar con ustedes y nuestros niños en nuestra histórica y hermosa Catedral.

CATEDRAL: La iglesia oficial del obispo de una diócesis. La palabra griega cathedra significa silla o trono; la “silla” del obispo simboliza su autoridad de enseñanza y gobierno y se encuentra en la iglesia principal o “catedral” de la diócesis local de la cual él es el pastor principal.

(Catecismo de la Iglesia Católica)

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The final chapter N AVI G ATI NG HOSPICE CARE AN D T H E S E AR CH F OR SPIRITUA L S UP P O RT

T

he end of life, it happens to everyone. Often, there is increased weakness, fading memory, confusion, sleeping more, needing assistance with personal hygiene and dressing and experiencing more pain. Emergency room visits increase, as do calls to physicians.

Many times, spouses or family members begin the information-gathering process for attaining care. They call friends, facilities they’ve heard about, maybe research online to find the best provider, whether home care, long-term care or hospice. If there is a terminal diagnosis of six months or less, hospice care might be the answer.

There are multiple hospice facilities in Kansas and Missouri, many connected to

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non-Catholic hospitals and/or physicians’ offices. There is only one Catholic hospice, home care and home for seniors organization in the Kansas City metro area, though, Catholic Community Health (CCH).

CCH is officially sponsored by the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, however, seniors and others seeking long-term care, rehabilitation, memory care or hospice in Jackson, Platte, Clay and Cass counties in Missouri are equally served.

There is also in-home assistance provided by trained care-givers who serve with homecare plans custom designed to meet the patient’s needs.

In 1971, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) first published the Ethical and Religious Directives (ERDs) for Catholic Health Services. Recently, the seventh edition of the directives came out.

Father Charles Rowe, vicar general for pastoral affairs with the Diocese of Kansas City– St. Joseph, explained how the new edition continues to encompass the social, spiritual and pastoral responsibilities of Catholic health care providers and care-givers. After all, “Jesus Christ is the Divine physician,’” he said.

Coupled with “being the hands and feet of Christ” in caring for seniors living at Villa St. Francis in Olathe, the staff is “formed in and

By Mar t y Denzer P ho t o s sub mit t ed by Catholic C o m m unit y Healt h

Volunteers provide spiritual companionship at Villa St. Francis in hospice and in home care.

Jesus Christ is the Divine physician.”

guided by” the ERDs, as a printed CCH booklet states. That’s important for Catholics, but it doesn’t mean that CCH is a Catholic-only care provider. All who need a senior home with long-term care, memory care or shortterm rehab or hospice care are welcome. Two full-time deacons provide spiritual guidance to patients and their families.

Sadly, for many patients and families, hospice is entered late, with 33 percent of patients dying within seven days of entry and 61 percent within 30 days. CCH has a Bridge to Hospice program that supports patients before they enter Our Lady of Grace hospice house, ensuring they receive the right care at the right time.

The Bridge program provides earlier symptom management, guidance in navigating serious illness before crises, and emotional and spiritual support, giving families time for thoughtful decision making and allows a smoother transition into hospice when it’s the appropriate time. This proactive approach enables patients and their families to experience the full comfort hospice can offer.

Some other benefits CCH offers include the Rosary, followed by daily Mass in the chapel, Friday afternoon Holy Hour, music and card games following lunch, a gift shop for families and residents and many volunteers who provide friendship, rides around the facility in wheelchairs, small talk with residents or

just quiet companionship, bingo on Saturdays and more. One of the volunteers has a puppy, who delights residents and staff alike.

Volunteers also provide spiritual companionship at Villa St. Francis in hospice and in home care. Volunteers pray for and with residents and hospice patients, praying the Rosary and the Divine Mercy Chaplet, as well as reading Scripture, spiritual readings, devotions and more.

TO LE ARN MORE about care options or becoming a volunteer, visit catholiccommunityhealth.org.

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parenti ng

Is it important, or does it matter?

The question changing how I parent

By K a re n Ri d d e r

The question came at a catechist training.

I gave the cliché answer.

“People always make time for things that are important to them. So, it’s what you find yourself actually doing,” I said.

The trainer’s second question was harder to answer.

He asked, “So, what’s the difference between something that’s IMPORTANT and something that MATTERS?” I was stumped. Aren’t they the same thing? No, I guess they aren’t.

He explained: “Important things are related to schedules, time, what we DO. Things that matter are more closely related to our goals, our character, who we are and who we BECOME.” And therein lies the problem. When we fill our schedules with “important” things, it is easy to lose sight of who we are becoming — and that matters — particularly for parents.

Here’s an example in my own life: My kids are in a very active stage. Many nights

30

a week, we have some place to be in the evening. Schedules often overlap. The family dinner has become hard to accomplish. It is easy to push family dinner aside in favor of just shoving food down and going on to the important things on the schedule. But wait! I DO believe it matters for our family to sit down together. I have seen how good it is for our family to have a space to share, stop, face each other and connect — even in a small way. That’s a long game, yes, and it is easy to eliminate when we are busy.

It’s not hard to convince myself it doesn’t really matter if we don’t take extra time to eat together. The first time we skip, it doesn’t matter. The second time it might also not matter, but weeks and months later — it really does.

Parenting is complicated. It can be hard to step out of the barraging schedule to make sure you have room for what matters. The day will always be full of things that seem important. Many of those things will also

Catholic Key • February/March 2026 • catholickey.org

matter, but maybe it’s worth considering how many really do, and what really doesn’t.

Lent is a great time to think about family life and refocus on what matters. What character are you hoping to instill in your children? What are your goals for them and yourself? Who do you want to be? Who do you hope for them to be? What is your family becoming? Where do you want it to go?

What deserves a higher level of importance in your family life?

Take on a challenge to ask God to show you what should matter more in your parenting journey and family life. Find time for it. Demand time for it. Let it break into the “important” cycles of your life. Don’t let it pass.

Reaching goals and instilling character in our kids takes time and might actually have to be put on the schedule. Be intentional — stop, think, consider.

What matters? How can you make it more important?

Getty Images/TopVectors

“How do you know something is important?”

volunteer s p o tl i gh t

Beth Sullivan, a member of St. Thomas More Parish in Kansas City, has been serving breakfast at Morning Glory Ministries since December 2024.

WA LKIN G WIT H T H E LORD THR OUGH SERVICE AT

Morning Glory Ministries

By Allison Vro o ma n | P h o t o s by Mi c h a e l H o ga n

T

he smells of freshly brewed coffee and a hearty, warm breakfast waft through the Catholic Center every weekday morning as the doors of Morning Glory Ministries open to the Kansas City community. The accompanying smells of bonfire smoke and winter air drive home the reality of the living situation many of the guests are enduring.

St. Thomas More The Wednesday morning serving crew from Sullivan.

Beth by ted submit Photo City.

Kansas in Parish

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Volunteers pull into the parking garage at The Catholic Center just before 6:30 a.m. and head down to the Eagle’s Wings Cafe on the ground floor, where they are assigned tasks that might include slicing bananas, preparing cups of peanut butter or mixing oatmeal for the food line. Dish washers prep their stations and await the trays, cups and serving utensils that will arrive after the meal.

As the 150+ guests take their trays, sanitize their hands and make their way through the food line, volunteers are ready with a smile and a “good morning,” while making eye contact with as many individual guests as possible. Guests are asked if they want each item offered before it is placed on their plate, and some are assisted in carrying their tray while finding a place at a table. All of these gestures serve to uphold a sense of hospitality and honor the dignity of each and every person.

Beth Sullivan, a member of St. Thomas More Parish in Kansas

The Monday morning serving crew from St. Thomas More Parish in Kansas City.

Morning Glory Ministries

City, began serving in the café in December 2024. A group from her parish volunteers on the last Monday of each month. A member of this group extended a personal invitation asking Sullivan to join them, an invitation that she felt was sent from God. As someone who considers acts of service to be her love language, Sullivan found her place serving in the café. “It is a very welcoming environment,” she said, adding that tasks are delegated in a professional and kind way. While she is happy to serve in whichever position is asked of her, Sullivan’s preferred placement is to be in the dining room. Refilling coffee, picking up trays and greeting the guests allows opportunities for more personal interactions. “Getting to know the people is my number one goal,” she shared. “I want to learn their names and speak to them personally because they are people and they deserve dignity.”

Whether serving food or taking out the trash, Sullivan makes it a priority to have meaningful

interactions with the guests.

“I am not a nameless, faceless service person,” she said. “Relationship is huge.” She looks forward to seeing guests who she has met before and often recalls information from their previous interactions.

As the breakfast service comes to a close around 8:15 a.m., volunteers sanitize tables and chairs, wash dishes and wipe down the buffet, while some of the guests make their way to the Cathedral a few blocks away for emergency assistance including often needed help in acquiring ID. As a volunteer for Morning Glory Ministries’ Emergency Assistance Program, Sullivan can further foster the relationships she built in the café.

She serves as a personal shopper, offering comfortable and dignified assistance to guests seeking necessities such as clothing, hygiene and pantry items.

Sullivan prays for the guests by name, for the ministry and for its growth and success. Since joining, she helped initiate another

is a ministry of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Kansas City. Breakfast is served from 7 a.m.-8 a.m., Monday through Friday at The Catholic Center, 20 W. 9th St. in Kansas City. Volunteers arrive at 6:30 a.m. and are typically finished by 8:30 a.m. Free covered parking is offered. Emergency assistance is available from 9 a.m.- 11 a.m., Tuesday through Friday at the Cathedral offices at 12th Street and Broadway in Kansas City.

group at St. Thomas More Parish that gathers to serve on every second Wednesday of the month.

“God gives us gifts, and he wants us to use those gifts,” Sullivan said, speaking to the call to give generously of time and talents.

She feels that claiming two mornings of each month to serve together has been a great benefit to the growth of the ministry at the parish.

From serving at the café, Sullivan has learned that Jesus wears many different shoes. “Jesus said, ‘Did you see me? Did you

clothes? Did you say hi to me?

Did you even recognize that I was there?’ He looks different in a lot of different ways,” she said.

“God, what do you want me to do today? You lead me!” is her daily prayer, and from her initial visit to the café, she felt very led to return.

“Just try it! Give it a chance!” were Sullivan’s encouraging words for others to get involved, adding that inviting a friend to join could ease the nerves of trying something new. “If you want to walk closer to the Lord, here is

give me a drink? Did you give me

your opportunity.”

TO LE ARN MORE , volunteer or adopt a monthly date as a group, visit morningglorykc.org or contact John Kraus at mgmkcmo@gmail.com.

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CE L E B R AT I NG 2 0 0 -YE A R- O L D TR ADITIONS TOG ETHER

Têt with a Catholic Mass

Bishop James Johnston accepts gifts from the parish during the 2024 Têt Mass at Church of the Holy Martyrs Parish in Kansas City.

By M a r t y Denz er | P hotos by Christy Gru enba u m

In the days leading up to Têt, she said, “Homes are thoroughly cleaned to sweep away any bad luck from the old year and prepare a pristine place to welcome guests and honor ancestors — a fresh start.”

The Catholic Mass celebrating Têt, she said, is an “approved example of inculturation … blending … true and holy” Vietnamese traditions and Catholic liturgy to give God thanks and pray for the new year. The bilingual liturgy ensures all attendees understand.

For Vietnamese Catholics, she said, Têt is a sacred time for giving thanks and renewing trust in God, integrating their cultural identity with their faith journey. The celebration focuses on gratitude, family, ancestors and hope, all rooted in Christian values.

Pham described several Vietnamese cultural elements incorporated into the Têt Mass.

The first three days of the New Year have special prayer intentions: Day 1 – prayers are offered for peace in Vietnam, in the world and in the local community. That Mass will be celebrated by Bishop James Johnston of the Diocese of Kansas City–St. Joseph.

Day 2 – prayers are offered for ancestors and the faithful departed.

Day 3 – prayers are offered for the sanctification of work and a blessed start to the new year’s labors.

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Both men and women don traditional dress, including the Ao Tai, (long shirt) a long split tunic worn over silk trousers in red, yellow, blue or green. The church likewise is traditionally decked in Vietnamese New Year’s symbols, including the readily available yellow chrysanthemums (hoa cuc), symbolizing longevity and filial piety. A small side altar, laden with fruits, traditional foods and burning incense, honors ancestors. Hymns sung in Vietnamese highlight the Church’s universality.

Following Mass, attendees will gather in the narthex or in front of the church, weather depending. Bishop Johnston will pass out red paper envelopes, each containing $1 ­— “Lucky Money” — as a wish for health, prosperity and success in the new year. They are given first to the elderly and children, then to everybody else, ensuring everyone receives a blessing.

The Têt Mass is followed by a fellowship meal of traditional foods and the Dragon/Lion dance, which chases away the bad spirits of the old year and brings good luck for the new.

CHUC MUNG NAM MOI! The 2026 Têt celebratory Mass will be held at the Church of the Holy Martyrs in South Kansas City on Feb. 15 at 10 a.m.

Bishop Johnston with Father Paul Turner (left) and Father Francis Pham (right) pose with parishioners and traditional dragon dance costumes during a Têt celebration at Church of the Holy Martyrs Parish in Kansas City.

Getty Images/DNY59

Anna Pham, an active volunteer with Church of the Holy Martyrs Parish, explained some of the symbolism of the colors, the foods and the ceremonials relative to both Têt, the Vietnamese New Year, and the Catholic Faith.

n o s Sea ent L

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Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph The Catholic Center 20 W. Ninth St. Kansas City, MO 64105

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