MIDWEST MARCH FOR LIFE
Jefferson City
Thousands gathered at the Missouri State Capitol under clear skies to defend human life and pray to end abortion at the annual MidWest March for Life on Thursday, April 30.
Speakers reminded the marchers about the importance not only of voting pro-life, including a “YES” vote on Nov. 3 on Amendment 3, which would restore lawfully enacted safeguards for women and their unborn babies, but also having important conversations with anyone who will listen, including the people they love.
Bishop James V. Johnston, Jr., of Kansas City-St. Joseph presided and preached the homily at the Closing Mass in the Proto-Cathedral of St. Peter, near the Capitol. He urged everyone to defend the inviolable sanctity of human life, including the unborn, including at the ballot box.
“ We can also proclaim the infinite mercy of Jesus to those who have been wounded, to those who carry the heavy weight of guilt from shedding innocent blood,” said Bishop Johnston. “Jesus’s mercy is greater than any sin.”
What is Amendment 3?
Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins has certified HJR 73 for the November 3, 2026, general election. Ironically, the measure will appear as “Amendment 3,” even though it aims to roll back
some of the worst provisions of the pro-abortion constitutional amendment that was narrowly approved in the 2024 general election.
If approved by voters, Amendment 3 would amend the Missouri Constitution to:
• Ban transgender procedures for minors
• Guarantee women have access to safe healthcare
• Require parental consent before minors have an abortion
• Ensure clinics have qualified medical professionals and proper cleanliness standards
• Severely limit public funding for abortion services
To view the official documents issued by the Secretary of State with the Official Ballot Language, scan the QR code below or go to www.sos.mo.gov/petitions/ 2026BallotMeasures.
PRO-LIFE GENERATION—With the beautiful Missouri State Capitol in the background, Bishop Edward Rice gathered with some of the MidWest March for Life participants April 30 from the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau. (The Mirror)
NDRHS STUDENTS WITNESS FOR LIFE—A group from Notre Dame Regional High School, Cape Girardeau, paused on the steps of the Missouri State Capitol on April 30 at the annual MidWest March for Life in Jefferson City. (The Mirror)
IAND YOU WILL SEE
Bp. Edward M. Rice
Holy water is the symbol of nature set free from sin COME,
t seems as if the world is spinning faster and faster. As I write this column, we continue the Easter season and we just entered the month of May, dedicated to Our Lady. I encourage everyone to discover the traditional practices associated with May such as a May Altar in your home, pray the rosary daily as a family or plant a Mary Garden.
The latest edition of Latin Liturgy Association highlights four flowers that honor Mary in May. The Bachelor’s Buttons, also known as Mary’s Crown, has a deep blue color associated with the traditional color for Mary. The golden petals of the Black-eyed Susan symbolize the bright golden light of the heavenly Jerusalem, with the dark center symbolizing the heart of faith. Lavender recalls the legend of Mary washing Jesus’s clothes during the flight into Egypt. She spread His clothes on the lavender bush to dry, with the sweet smell of His clothes giving the scent to the flower. Finally, the Marigold, or Mary’s Gold, was offered to Our Lady by poor pilgrims who could not afford a monetary donation. Other flowers include the Lily, for her purity; the Rose for her love; the violet for her humility, and the Lily of the Valley for her tears.
PASTORAL APPRECIATION Bishop Rice recently received a Spiritual Bouquet from parishioners in St. Francis de Sales Parish, Lebanon, in gratitude for their Pastor Fr. Allan Saunders. Father Saunders is also Pastor of St. William Parish, Buffalo, and the seasonal Sportsman’s Chapel at Bennett Springs (The Mirror)
Diocesan Eucharistic Congress at West Plains, MO on August 15th, 2026, we offer resources to prepare. The resources for the month of May include chapters 1356-1381 from the Catechism; ‘Reclaiming Sunday for God & the family,’ with insights as to how to pray a family rosary and create a May altar; diving into the mind of Pope St. John Paul II, exploring ‘The Eucharist and Ecclesial Communion;’ two uplifting movies: Song of Bernadette and The Miracle of Our Lady of Fatima; among other resources. All of this can be accessed on our Website. Please take full advantage of these resources.
‘SACRED SIGNS:’ HOLY WATER
From Romano Guardini’s, Sacred Signs, we reflect on “holy water:”
holy water. Night, as the proverb says, is no friend to man. … Just before we give ourselves over into the power of sleep and darkness … there is a satisfaction in making the sign of the cross on ourselves with holy water. Holy water is the symbol of nature set free from sin. May God protect us from every form of darkness!”
Do you have holy water in your home? Do you have a font? Do you use it regularly?
O Sacrament Most Holy, O Sacrament Divine, all praise and all thanksgiving be every moment Thine. ©TM
May 13 is the Feast of Our Lady of Fatima and let’s not forget one of the newest days in her honor, the Monday after Pentecost (May 25 this year), the Memorial of Mary, Mother of the Church, instituted by Pope Francis in 2018. This title recognizes Mary as the spiritual mother of us all, highlighting her presence with the Apostles at Pentecost. The title itself is not new, used by both St. Augustine and St. Leo the Great, then formally by Pope
Paul VI in 1964. However, it was Pope Francis that added it to the liturgical calendar. With this title, Mother of the Church, Mary is the New Eve, the Mother of all the living, recognized as a powerful intercessor and seen as the Mother of Christ and Mother of the Church. When I was in grade school, we took turns bringing flowers to school for Mary. As I recall, many a student brought dandelions, myself included, not knowing it was a weed! Oh well, it’s the thought that counts!
MAY RESOURCES FOR THE DEC
As we continue our preparations for the
“Water is a mysterious thing. … it seems to have no other end or object than to be of service, to cleanse what is soiled, and to refresh what is dry. … It is indeed a strange element. On the one hand, smooth and transparent … On the other a restless, foundationless, enigmatic force that entices us on to destruction. … By her consecration of it, the Church has freed water from the dark powers that sleep in it. … She ‘exorcises’ out of water those divinities that are at enmity with God. She blesses it and asks God to make of it a vehicle of His grace. Therefore, the Christian, when he enters church, moistens forehead, breast, and shoulders, all his person, with the clean and cleansing water in order to make clean his soul. It is a pleasing custom that brings grace and nature freed from sin, and man, who so longs for cleanness, into the unity of the sign of the cross. In the evening, also we sign ourselves in
ANOTHER WALK THROUGH: ‘Walking Together’
By Bishop Emeritus John J. Leibrecht
Before his retirement in 2008 as the Fifth Bishop of the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau, Bishop John Leibrecht wrote a standing column in The Mirror entitled, “Walking Together.” At the end of each article, Bp. Leibrecht would normally share a funny story referencing his travels to the schools, or time with friends, family, or other bishops. The Mirror has decided to share a few of these in an ongoing series entitled, “Another walk through: ‘Walking Together.’” We hope you enjoy them.
March 24, 1995 A man explained the meaning of “down and out”: “I used to think I was poor. Then they told me I wasn’t poor. I was needy. Then they told me it was self-defeating to call myself needy. I was deprived. They told me deprived was a bad image. I was underprivileged. Then they told me underprivileged was overused. I was disadvantaged. All I know is, even though I try, I’m still pretty poor. All that’s changed is my vocabulary.”
March 31, 1995 Speaking about the need for the Church to address public issues of the day, Card. Bernard Law told of the Baptist who complained, “My preacher stopped
preaching and started meddling.” The preacher commented, “If the preacher isn’t meddling, he’s not preaching!”
April 7, 1995 Sometimes we say things in ways to place ourselves or our actions in a better light. For instance, a fellow explained to a police officer, “I collided with that parked truck which was coming the other way.” Or, again explaining an automobile accident, another person said, “If that guy hadn’t decided to drive to the store, I would never have hit him.”
A column by Fr DanielBelken
“TBy Deacon Tony Peters
A CALL WORTH YOUR LIFE: Discerning Priesthood, the Diaconate, and Religious life in southern Missouri
he decision to believe in Jesus Christ and to follow him is not an easy one. It is hindered by our personal failures and by the many voices that point us toward easier paths.” With these words, first spoken by Pope Benedict XVI and affirmed by Bishop Edward M. Rice, the Church names a real struggle. The call of Christ is clear. The path is demanding. The grace is sufficient.
Bishop Rice speaks with clarity: “The awareness of personal failures and weaknesses, even sinfulness, shows that a vocation is a grace from God. God calls, and God gives the individual what is needed to respond. With such conviction and hope, you have accepted the call, and in the words of Our Lady, ‘Let it be done.’” This is the pattern. God initiates. You respond. Grace carries what you cannot.
This call flows from the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Every vocation is rooted in His sacrifice. The priest stands at the altar and offers the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. The deacon proclaims the Gospel and serves Christ in the poor. The religious man or woman gives his or her entire life as a visible sign that Christ is enough. Each vocation participates in the saving work of the Cross.
Given
for the life of the world
The Eucharist stands at the center. The priest is configured to Christ so that, through him, Christ acts. At every Mass, Christ gives His Body and Blood for the life of the world. A priest’s life is ordered to this moment. Without the Eucharist, there is no priesthood. Without the priesthood, the Eucharist is not made present. Without the Eucharist, the Church cannot live, because the Church draws her life from the Body and Blood of Christ. This is not symbolic. This is Christ Himself, given for the life of the world.
Every baptized person has a vocation. Baptism is a call into the life of Christ and his Church. The Catechism teaches that all the faithful share in the priesthood of Christ through Baptism. This is the common priesthood (CCC §§1268, 1546). From this foundation, God calls some men to Holy Orders to serve in the person of Christ the Head. Others are called to consecrated life through vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. Many are called to marriage. Each vocation builds up the People of God.
The distinction is clear. Your vocation is who you are. A career is what you do. One forms your identity. The other expresses your work.
The Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate (CARA) at Georgetown
University prepared the “2026 Survey of Ordinands to the Priesthood for the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.” This national study offers insight into how God calls. Many first sensed a call around age 16. Others responded later. God calls across time, circumstance, and life experience. Formation grows through real practices. Most 2026 ordinands prayed regularly before entering the seminary. Eighty-one percent participated in Eucharistic Adoration. Seventy-nine percent prayed the Rosary. Many served at the altar. Many were invited by someone to consider the priesthood. Invitation matters. Witness matters. Discernment does not happen in isolation. It unfolds in the Church. It grows in prayer, sacraments, and honest conversation.
Am I being called?
Clarity comes through response. Yet clear signs point toward a vocation, and help guide the next step.
Take this to prayer in silence. Be honest.
• A personal relationship with Jesus Christ is important to me.
• People have told me I would make a good priest.
• I have kept these thoughts hidden.
• Mass and Eucharistic Adoration are central in my life.
• The thought of the priesthood or religious life returns repeatedly.
• I hesitate to speak about this with others.
• I desire to give more of myself in service.
• After hearing the readings at Mass, I think about how I would preach.
• I want to help others know Christ and the Truth.
• I sense that my plans and God’s plan are not the same.
If several of these statements are true, act. Many hesitate here. Fear enters. Fear of change. Fear of loss. Fear of not being enough. These fears are real. Keep in mind, God’s Grace is greater.
Father Joseph Stoverink, Director of Vocations for the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau, leads this work for our diocese. He and the regional vocation promoters
walk with those who are discerning. They listen. They guide. They help you take the next step.
Regional Vocation Promoters:
Fr. Brian Straus, Joplin Area, bstraus@dioscg.org;
Fr. Charles Peirano, Mansfield/Ava Area, cpeirano@dioscg.org;
Fr. Andrew Williams, Springfield Area, awilliams@dioscg.org;
Fr. Nicholas Newton, Mountain View Area, nnewton@dioscg.org;
Fr. Jesse Hiett, Cape Girardeau Area, jhiett@dioscg.org.
Local discernment retreat
A concrete opportunity stands before young men. The upcoming Quo Vadis retreat, June 3–6, 2026, at the diocesan
Camp St. Carlo, in Fredericktown, MO, will offer time for prayer, fraternity, and clarity. It creates space to listen to God’s voice without distraction right here in the Ozarks.
Discernment requires honesty. Many voices promise comfort and control. Christ calls to sacrifice, service, and love. These paths are not the same. The pattern remains. God calls. The heart resists. Grace invites. A response follows.
If this is you, do not delay. Go to Eucharistic Adoration. Speak with a priest. Do not wait for certainty. Clarity grows through faithful steps.
The call of Christ is demanding. It is life-giving. It is worth everything. ©TM
Deacon Tony Peters serves as a Permanent Deacon for the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau. He is a husband, father, registered nurse, a professed Secular Franciscan, and holds a Master of Arts in Theology.
GABRIEL VUYCANKIAT JOINS BRANSON PARISH WELCOME NEW CATHOLICS!
EDITOR’S NOTE:
The Catholic Church in the United States has experienced a notable and widespread surge in new members in 2026, with dioceses across the country reporting some of the highest numbers of converts in years. Data collected from dioceses nationwide confirms the trend, showing significant year-over-year growth as thousands entered the Church at the Easter Vigil. Based on the percentage increase of new Catholic converts, the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau ranks 11th in the nation according to recent reporting from the National Catholic Register. The number of converts within the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau was 519 for Easter 2026. Within the next few issues of The Mirror, we look forward to sharing stories from some of the diocese’s newest Catholics.
Gabriel Vuycankiat joined the Catholic Church in Our Lady of the Lake Parish, Branson. He is a college student studying History.
What led you to join the Catholic Church’s OCIA program?
“June 22nd of last year I attended my first Mass. I had come not expecting anything. As the elements were presented, I watched curiously. Later, I watched Fr. J Friedel pray the epiclesis and once he held the host up towards heaven, my body went into shock. I froze as I saw the Eucharist and instantly knew it was the Body of Christ,” Vuycankiat said. “After Mass had ended, I left in fear and confusion because I never thought I would end up Catholic. In turn, I decided to turn toward Eastern Orthodoxy. I learned their fascinating theology and fell in love with their way of worship and life. Months later, I took a Christian Theology class, and my teacher had unintentionally proved the Filioque while doing a hermeneutic lesson over Ephesians. He then said, ‘And this is why we aren’t Eastern Orthodox.’ I then was convinced and began my discovery of Catholicism. I began reading the Catholic catechism myself and had almost completed the sections over the sacraments, but then I decided to join OCIA.”
What was your faith background prior to becoming part of the OCIA journey?
“Christ found me in my freshman year of high school. Before my freshman year of high school, I suffered from mental disorders from experimenting with
What did you enjoy most about your journey into full membership within the Catholic Church?
“The best moment was when I received the Eucharist. The journey began by gazing upon the host, but the next part of my journey began by consuming the Lord’s Body and Blood,” said Vuycankiat. “I experienced the Easter Vigil, and we read the creation account. It was humbling to know that our Creator became created and died for us. I genuflected and crossed myself before receiving the Lord saying in my heart, ‘My Lord and my God’ and then I received.”
Fool for Christ.
When I was confirmed, I told my priest my patron and he laughed and said, “Of course!”; the experience was very special.”
What advice would you give to help draw souls to Christ?
drugs, my mother was sick with cancer, and lived in a blended household,” said Vuycankiat. “A month before I transitioned into high school God had radically healed me of my mental disorders and reassured me that my mother would also be healed (she was); it was then I dedicated my life to Him. I used to live as a non-denominational evangelical, with a caution against Catholics. I began studying the biblical narratives and theology during my sophomore year of high school. As I grew in understanding Scripture, I fell more in love with the Lord. During that time in my life, I had no regard for the sacraments, because I viewed them merely as symbolic. However, one summer I spoke with a friend, and he shared how he came to know the Lord Jesus through his experience with the Eucharist. He was not a Christian yet received Communion. He shared that he felt pain from drinking the wine and bread. It was once he repented and believed in the Lord Jesus Christ that the pain subsided. Through hearing this story, I then knew that at least one of the sacraments was more than a symbol (This was three years ago, which was the beginning of the Eucharistic Revival).”
“Over time, I had slowly become more reformed in my theology but moved from caution to intolerance toward Catholicism,” Vuycankiat said. “I adhered to the view of the spiritual presence of Christ in Communion but thought it impossible for Christ to be physically present. It was last June that my mind was changed forever, and I have now witnessed Christ present physically in the Eucharist.”
“After eating and drinking I knelt back at my pew and thought, ‘That was it? It wasn’t that exciting,’” Vuycankiat said, “then I realized Christ humbles himself each time in the Eucharist to seemingly be ‘not exciting.’ That was the revelation, how humble the Lord Jesus Christ is by appearing in the elements.”
What did you find most challenging?
“The Papacy, purgatory, and the Marian doctrines were the most challenging, but the Holy Spirit eventually guided me toward the explanations and answers,” he said.
What was the biggest learning moment in your journey?
“The Papacy, Purgatory, and Mary were the biggest learning climaxes of my journey. The Papacy is how God held unity in the Church. Purgatory is the finishing of our sanctification, God’s mercy. Mary is our Mother, and Queen of heaven.”
How well do you think the Church welcomes seekers to the faith?
“The Church does very well in welcoming seekers to the faith but not always answering the questions they have. Thankfully, I had wonderful OCIA directors that guided me well in my journey, but it was difficult to learn from other Catholics who were not a part of the OCIA team.”
What was most memorable about your confirmation and baptism if you were also baptized?
“I chose an Eastern Rite saint: St. Gabriel, the Holy
“Grace & Mercy, Grace & Mercy, Grace & Mercy. The reality of God’s saving grace and mercy is the pinnacle of our faith,” said Vuycankiat. “Throughout my life, I have only encountered unfaithful Catholics. But, once I met a graceful and merciful Catholic was when my mind began to soften toward the Church. When we live the faith, we show the world that the Gospel is the real deal! When we are patient and love our enemies, we draw not only others to Christ, but ourselves back to him.”
What do you find is the biggest ‘treasure’ of faith?
“The biggest treasure of faith is the Eucharist, hands down. The reality that I can be one with Christ in the Most Blessed Sacrament or am able to be physically near Christ in Adoration blew me away,” Vuycankiat said. “The second treasure would be the Blessed Virgin Mary, our Mother in faith. Learning that I can better honor Christ by venerating His Mother and that she intercedes on my behalf was so comforting. Finally, another treasure I hold dear is the History of the Church.”
Any other thoughts?
“All cradle Catholics, please press into the faith; it’s worth it.” ©TM
NEW CATHOLIC—Gabriel Vuycankiat joined Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, Branson, during the 2026 Easter Vigil. He is pictured with his Pastor, Fr. J Friedel (The Mirror)
DIOCESAN NEWS/ADULT FAITH
FIRST HOLY COMMUNION CELEBRATED IN ORAN PARISH
FIRST HOLY COMMUNION Twelve students from Guardian Angel Parish made their First Holy Communion on Sunday, April 26. Pictured are (front row)
Presley Pinkston, Caroline Eskew, Caroline Kyle, Berkley Dennis, Clara Vetter, and Sadie Seyer; (second row) Jude Seabaugh, Corban Shelby, August Graviett, Tuck McClard, Nolan Pobst, and Lillyann Johnson; (third row) Mrs. Teal Mangels, Rev. Joseph Kelly, and Mrs. Pat Moore. (The Mirror) Oran, MO
There were 12 very excited children at Guardian Angel Church on Sunday, April 26, who made their First Holy Communion at the 10:30 am Mass. Father Joseph Kelly, Pastor of Guardian Angel Church and St. Ambrose Church, in Chaffee, bestowed the brown scapular on the youth after the Mass.
The children were led in their teachings by Mrs. Teal Mangels at Guardian Angel
Catholic School and Mrs. Pat Moore for the PSR classes of Guardian Angel Church. The children from Guardian Angel Catholic School who made their First Holy Communion were: Berkley Dennis, Caroline Eskew, August Graviett, Caroline Kyle, Presley Pinkston, Jude Seabaugh, Sadie Seyer, Corban Shelby, and Clara Vetter. The students from the PSR classes were: Lillyann Johnson, Tuck McClard, and Nolan Pobst. ©TM
FIRST FRIDAY MASS for VOCATIONS
ishop Rice will celebrate the Votive Mass of the Sacred Heart for Vocations each First Friday of the month, followed by the Rosary.
All parishes are invited to celebrate First Friday Masses for Vocations as we continue to pray for more vocations to the priesthood and religious life in our diocese.
BISHOP RICE’S SCHEDULE FOR FIRST FRIDAY MASS:
Fri., June 5 St. Canera Church, Neosho 6:00 p.m.
Fri., July 3 St. Agnes Cathedral, Springfield 5:30 p.m.
Fri., Aug. 7 St. Agnes Cathedral, Springfield 5:30 p.m.
Fri., Sept. 4 St. Agnes Cathedral, Springfield 5:30 p.m.
Fri., Oct. 2 St. Agnes Cathedral, Springfield 5:30 p.m.
Fri., Nov. 6 St. Agnes Cathedral, Springfield 5:30 p.m.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Reader expresses gratitude for recent coverage
Dear Editor Leslie,
Thank you so much for your great work on The Mirror, our diocesan newspaper. It is very informative and educational.
Thanks especially for the article published by the Missouri Catholic Conference (MCC) in the Feb. 27 edition
on Death with Dignity. It is a priority topic now that assisted suicide is accepted around the world. I hope and pray we observe Canada warning about the slippery slope of assisted suicide.
Sincerely,
Marjorie Nowak
St. Canera Parish, Neosho
Letters to the Editor are published at the discretion of the editor. They may be mailed via USPS to Editor, The Mirror, 601 S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield, MO 65806, or filed electronically to: leidson@dioscg.org.
Benton Wheat Harvest Farmers Mass: All are welcome to join Bishop Rice in southeast Missouri to celebrate Holy Mass and a picnic in honor and recognition of our farmers, Sun., May 31, 1pm. Mass and meal will be held at Hulshof Farms, 674 County Highway 506, Benton. Bring your own chair to sit in for Mass. Bring any side dish you would like to share; pork steaks and baked potatoes will be provided for the meal.
Jackson—St. Ann’s Sodality/CCW will have its Rummage, Plant & Bake Sale, Fri., June 5, 7am-5pm & Sat., June 6, 7am-1pm, in the multi-purpose building/school gymnasium at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.
Joplin—The Knights of Columbus #7307 will have its 4th Annual Fallen Knights Memorial Golf Tournament, Sat., May 30, 8am tee-time at Schifferdecker Golf Course. Sponsorships are still available, contact Brent Wilson at bmwbrent@gmail.com. Team Information: $320/Team, includes cart rental. To register, contact Curt Staab at WCKofC7307@gmail. com; sponsor and registration deadline is May 25.
Springfield—Play golf “fore” a good cause!
Catholic Charities is excited to partner with the Knights of Columbus for the 2026 Charity Golf Tournament, Mon., June 22, at Fremont Hills Country Club, Nixa, MO. Proceeds of the tournament will benefit LifeHouse Maternity Home in Springfield. Information regarding sponsorships, team registrations, and individual player spots may be found at https://ccsomo.org/get-involved-events.
Springfield—Sacred Heart Parish will host a Trivia Night, Sat., May 16. Cost is $15 per person and includes food. Eight people to a table, purchase an entire table, save $10. Doors open at 5pm and trivia play begins at 6pm. Proceeds benefit the Parish School of Religion. For more information, contact the parish office at (417) 869-3646.
Wichita, KS—The 26th annual Midwest Catholic Family Conference will be held July 31-Aug. 2, in the Century 2 Convention Center, Wichita. Additional information and registration are available at https://www. catholicfamilyconference.org/.
Parishes and organizations are invited to submit notices of future events to be printed on a space-available basis. There is no fee.
B
DIOCESAN/INTERNATIONAL
FIVE SAINTS FOR 2027 SEOUL—This is an official image of the five patron saints chosen for the 2027 World Youth Day in Seoul, South Korea, from
Patron saints named for WORLD YOUTH DAY 2027
By Junno Arocho Esteves OSV News
Organizers in Seoul, South Korea, announced five patron saints for World Youth Day 2027 that reflect the themes of truth, peace and love that are at the heart of the youth gathering.
The five saints selected by the WYD Organizing Committee include: St. John Paul II, who founded the World Youth Day celebration; St. Andrew Kim Taegon, the first Korean Catholic priest, and companions who were martyred; St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, patron saint of immigrants; St. Josephine Bakhita, patron saint of victims of human trafficking and modern slavery; and St. Carlo Acutis, the millennial saint known for his use of technology to evangelize.
role in the preparation” of every WYD.
“They invite young people, formators, and pastors to reflect on the gift of God’s call, on our baptismal, priestly, religious, and marital vocations, encouraging us to respond to it with generosity and courage in following Christ, who has conquered the world, as the theme of the upcoming WYD reminds us,” he said, according to Licas News.
Cardinal Farrell expressed his hope that the lives and witness of the five patron saints “inspire young people around the world, especially in contexts marked by difficulties and persecution, to see that holiness is not a distant ideal, to fix their gaze on Christ and to respond generously to His call.”
REALITIES FACED BY YOUNG PEOPLE
SAINTS’ LIVES REFLECT TODAY’S ISSUES
According to the Asian Catholic news site Licas News, organizers said the lives of the patron saints reflected on issues relevant today, including persecution, migration and social struggle, making them appropriate guides for the global event.
Taegon, St. Josephine Bakhita, and Pope St. John Paul II. The process of choosing the event’s patron saints began in late 2024 and included a survey of young people, youth ministers, and pastoral workers, followed by deliberations by the WYD organizing committee (OSV News photo/courtesy of WYD Seoul 2027) DEADLINE EXTENDED! Register by Aug. 1.
The process of choosing the event’s patron saints began in late 2024, including a survey of young people, youth ministers and pastoral workers, followed by deliberations by the organizing committee, Licas News reported.
Volunteers also studied the lives and spirituality of the saints chosen to prepare prayers and their respective symbolic representations. Among the symbols chosen were a crozier for St. John Paul II and a computer for St. Carlo Acutis.
‘FUNDAMENTAL ROLE’ OF WYD’S PATRON SAINTS
Commenting on the announcement, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, prefect of the Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life, said the patron saints “play a fundamental
Korean Archbishop Peter Soon-Taick Chung of Seoul, president of the WYD organizing committee, noted that each saint “offers a concrete path for living out the faith amidst the realities that young people face today.”
“I hope that young people will discover in these saints examples for their own lives and, through the journey of preparation for World Youth Day, forge a deep spiritual bond with them,” he said.
The official website for World Youth Day 2027 was updated with biographical information on each saint. Organizers also launched an interactive site, titled “Meet Your Patron Saint,” where users can take a short quiz to match with one of the five saints. ©OSV
Junno Arocho Esteves is an international correspondent for OSV News. Follow him on X @jae_journalist.
left: St. Carlo Acutis, St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, St. Andrew Kim
DIOCESAN
SCHS SOPHOMORE HEADED TO IMMERSIVE SCIENCE & AGRICULTURE PROGRAM
Springfield Catholic High School sophomore Catelyn Handley has been selected to participate in the Life Sciences Quest Summer Academy, at the University of Missouri this summer. The academy will take place from Sunday, July 12, through Thursday, July 16. The Life Sciences Quest Summer Academy is a hands-on, residential experience designed for high school students with a strong interest in science and life sciences research. This immersive program explores how science and agriculture intersect at Mizzou and around the world. It is proudly co-funded by the Missouri Department of Agriculture (MDA) and the University of Missouri. ©TM
MEET OUR SEMINARIANS
Damian Criddle:
Saying ‘Yes’ with Joy & Determination
By Paula Wright
Meet Damian Criddle, a second-year seminarian attending Conception Seminary, in northern Missouri’s Conception, MO. A former member of St. Mary of the Annunciation Cathedral, in Cape Girardeau, and the youngest of six siblings, Criddle entered seminary college immediately following high school.
Criddle enjoys playing sports (he is really good at volleyball), visiting the mountains (especially in Wyoming), and playing complex board games. His favorite sports team is the Buffalo Bills and favorite food is chili. Criddle plays the piano and organ and finds inspiration from St. Cecilia, the patron saint of musicians. His favorite book of the bible is Esther, and favorite prayer is the Litany of Humility. Lately, he has been busy with his studies and during down time, playing sports with fellow seminarians.
When asked about the “God moment” that inspired his discernment and vocation to the priesthood, Criddle shared, “My God moment was at SEEK in St. Louis during my senior year of high school. During adoration the Lord just really called me to follow his will whatever it might be, which turned out to be entering seminary.”
Criddle shared how he was also inspired by Fr. Laurent Okitakatshi, “He was a priest at our (St. John Henry)
Newman Center and parish for a time, he really showed me that a priest can be superdevout and also have fun at the same time.”
This summer, Criddle is looking forward to serving the people of his diocese, having a break from classes, and spending time with his family. He is also planning on visiting parishes within the diocese that he has never been to before.
“The support of the diocese is why I’m still at seminary. Without the support I could not be here. Seminary is not easy,” Criddle said. “The goal of formation is to reform you into a priest. That process of reformation is often hard because you are trying to root out what the world has taught you. The prayers and support of the diocese are vital to seminarians.”
Criddle has advice for any young person discerning a religious vocation:
“Be active in your discernment. God is not going to physically put you in seminary,” he said. “It takes action and effort from you. All God can do is call you and invite you. You are the one that has to say yes. Visit seminaries, pray to God, talk with your pastor, be active.”
What would he say to bring a soul to Christ and His Church, to touch a heart? Criddle responded, “I’d just let them know the love God has for them. No matter what you’ve done, God is always there and wants to forgive. He longs to extend his mercy, we don’t need to ask, we just need to accept what He freely gives.” ©TM
By Paula Wright Mansfield, MO
Daniel Poirier, a Faithful Navigator with the Knights of Columbus, MSgt, USAFR (Ret), and member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, Mansfield, has spent the past 15 years as a volunteer of the Missing in America Project. A national organization, the Missing in America Project’s (MIAP) purpose is “to locate, identify, and inter the unclaimed cremated remains of American veterans through the joint efforts of private, state, and federal organizations. To provide honor, respect, and dignity to those who have served this country by securing a final resting place for these forgotten heroes.”
This comprehensive project requires many volunteer hours, and it is a labor of love.
VETERAN PRAYS—A US veteran bowed his head in prayer at a Memorial Day Mass held at Resurrection Cemetery, Springfield. A Mansfield parishioner, Daniel Poirier, is involved with the Missing in America Project, the mission of which is to locate, identify, and inter unclaimed cremated remains of American veterans through the efforts of private, state, and federal organizations. (The Mirror)
It was in 2015, during a national cemetery wreath-laying event with the Knights of Columbus in Georgia, Poirier noticed a grave marked with “MIAP.” Not knowing what it meant,
he researched and found the Missing in America Project and immediately felt drawn to help them in their efforts.
“I specifically remember the first funeral I participated in with MIAP, it was in Blairsville, Georgia. We were bringing a forgotten veteran home to his final resting place,” Poirier said. “Word had gotten out. We were given a police escort. There were people on the side of the road along the route and on bridges with flags. It was incredible to see such a great showing of gratitude.”
“THE VETERANS LANGUISHING ON SHELVES NEED US. THEY NEED AMERICA TO STEP FORWARD AND ENSURE THEY ARE BURIED WITH HONOR. THEY NEED AMERICA TO SHOW THEIR THANKS FOR THEIR SERVICE. WITHOUT THEM, WE WOULD NOT HAVE THE FREEDOMS WE ENJOY TODAY.”
– Missing in America Project
In Fort Leonard Wood Missouri State Veterans Cemetery, Waynesville, MO, a World War I (WWI) veteran who had been unclaimed for over 60 years received a funeral with full military honors along with a post-Vietnam Navy Seaman Recruit, ensuring a dignified final resting place for both vets.
Another success story Poirier shared was the MIAP finding, identifying, and securing a final resting place not only for a WWI veteran who was found in San Diego, but also for his six-year-old son,
whose remains had been unclaimed for years in Seattle. His remains were also transported to San Diego so that father and son could be placed together.
According to their site, during their 17year history, MIAP has identified 8,253 veterans and eligible dependent remains and interred 8,101 Veterans.
“Each veteran who is located and receives a burial is a success story. It is estimated there are around 50,000 veterans whose unclaimed remains are waiting to be found,” said Poirier, “in storage units and on the side of the road.”
Sadly, the homeless population is a contributor for many veterans’ remains that are unclaimed and unidentified.
“ We are always looking for volunteers to help us contact places where unclaimed remains of veterans may be found,” said Poirier, who recently was named as the MIAP State Coordinator in Missouri, “to help set up and coordinate funerals and burial arrangements, and to conduct research to help identify the veterans.”
If you are interested in volunteering, contact Poirier by Email at miaga30512@gmail.com or by telephone at (770) 377-2377. For more information about the Missing in America Project,
INTERNATIONAL
12 QUOTES from Pope
Leo’s first year as pope
As we mark the one-year anniversary of Pope Leo XIV’s election to the papacy, here is a selection of 12 quotes from the new pontiff on various topics, looking back over the 12 months since he became Pope on May 8, 2025.
• “I am a son of St. Augustine, an Augustinian, who said, ‘For you, I am a bishop; with you, I am a Christian.’ In this sense we can all walk together toward that homeland that God has prepared.” —Pope Leo in his first address from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica May 8, 2025.
SOMBRERO JUBILEE OF YOUTH VIGIL 2025—Pope
Leo XIV signs his name for a young man after presiding over a prayer vigil with hundreds of thousands of young people in Rome’s Tor Vergata neighborhood Aug. 2, 2025. The vigil was part of the Jubilee of Youth celebrations. (CNS photo/Vatican Media)
“Dilexi Te” (“I have loved you”), promulgated Oct. 9, 2025.
One year ago: The pope from the peripheries died on Easter Monday
Vatican City
One year ago April 21, 2025, Pope Francis died at 7:35 a.m.. It came the day after Easter, when—barely able to raise his hands— he gave his blessing “urbi et orbi” (to the city and the world). Looking drawn and worn, the 88-year-old pope from Argentina took his final ride in the popemobile, spending about 15 minutes among the crowd.
But then, the next morning, which was a major holiday in Italy, church bells in Rome tolled the death knell after US Cardinal Kevin J. Farrell, chamberlain of the Holy Roman Church, announced that Pope Francis had died just a few hours ago.
• “Brothers and sisters, I would like that our first great desire be for a united Church, a sign of unity and communion, which becomes a leaven for a reconciled world.” —Pope Leo at the Mass for the inauguration of his petrine ministry May 18, 2025.
• “Migrants and refugees remind the Church of her pilgrim dimension, perpetually journeying toward her final homeland, sustained by a hope that is a theological virtue.” —Pope Leo’s message for the Oct. 4-5 111th World Day of Migrants and Refugees, given July 25, 2025.
• “Be agents of communion, capable of breaking down the logic of division and polarization, of individualism and egocentrism. Centre yourselves on Christ, so as to overcome the logic of the world, of fake news, of frivolity, with the beauty and light of truth.” —Pope Leo’s address to Catholic digital missionaries and influencers July 29, 2025
• “When a tool controls someone, that person becomes a tool: a commodity on the market and, in turn, a piece of merchandise. Only genuine relationships and stable connections can build good lives.”
Pope Leo at a vigil for the Jubilee of Youth Aug. 2, 2025.
• “Friendship with Christ, which forms the basis of faith, is not just one aid among many others for building the future; it is our guiding star.” —Pope Leo at a vigil for the Jubilee of Youth Aug. 2, 2025
• “On the wounded faces of the poor, we see the suffering of the innocent and, therefore, the suffering of Christ himself.” —Pope Leo in his first apostolic exhortation
• “Marian spirituality is at the service of the Gospel: It reveals its simplicity. Our affection for Mary of Nazareth leads us to join her in becoming disciples of Jesus.”
Pope Leo at the Jubilee of Marian Spirituality Oct. 12, 2025.
• “When we consider the great material, cultural, scientific, and artistic treasures, faith shines not because these goods are to be undervalued, but because without faith they lose their meaning.”
—Pope Leo at the canonization of seven new saints Oct. 19, 2025.
• “Life shines brightly not because we are rich, beautiful, or powerful. Instead, it shines when we discover within ourselves the truth that we are called by God, have a vocation, have a mission, that our lives serve something greater than ourselves.”
—Pope Leo at the Mass for the Jubilee of Education, where he proclaimed St. John Henry Newman a Doctor of the Church Nov. 1, 2025.
• “AI can process information quickly, but it cannot replace human intelligence. And don’t ask it to do your homework for you. It cannot offer real wisdom.” —Pope Leo at a digital encounter with youth during the 2025 National Catholic Youth Conference in Indianapolis Nov. 21, 2025.
• “Peace, in fact, cannot be decreed: It must be embraced and lived. It is a gift from God, which unfolds through patient and collective effort. It is everyone’s responsibility, beginning with civil authorities.” —Pope Leo in his meeting with the authorities, civil society and diplomatic corps in Yaoundé, Cameroon, April 15, 2026.
“His whole life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and his Church,” Cardinal Farrell said in a video announcement broadcast from the chapel of the Domus Sanctae Marthae, where Pope Francis lived.
The Wikimedia Foundation said that its “Deaths in 2025” entry, which included Pope Francis, was their second most-read entry during the year. And plenty of people took the occasion to learn more about his life too, adding that “His English Wikipedia article was the 11th most-read (page) of the year.”
Following in the footsteps of his predecessors, Pope Francis was an untiring voice for peace, urging an end to armed conflict, supporting dialogue and encouraging reconciliation.
He gave new energy to millions of Catholics —and caused concern for some—as he transformed the image of the papacy into a pastoral ministry based on personal encounters and strong convictions about poverty, mission and dialogue.
His simple lifestyle, which included his decision not to live in the Apostolic Palace and his choice of riding around Rome in a small Fiat or Ford instead of a Mercedes sedan, sent a message of austerity to Vatican officials and clergy throughout the Church.
Although he repeatedly said he did not like to travel, he made 47 foreign trips, taking his message of the Gospel joy to North and South America, Europe,
NOT FORGOTTEN Pope Francis mischievously smiled at visitors through a lens of his glasses at the end of his weekly general audience in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican Oct. 18, 2023. Elected March 13, 2013, Pope Francis was the first pope in history to come from the Southern Hemisphere, the first non-European to be elected in almost 1,300 years and the first Jesuit to serve as successor to St. Peter. He died April 21, 2025.
(CNS photo by Lola Gomez)
Africa, and Asia.
He was elected after Pope Benedict XVI retired in 2013. Then-Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio was already a known and respected figure within the College of Cardinals, so much so that no one disputed a respected Italian journal’s report that he had received the second-highest number of votes on all four ballots cast in the 2005 conclave that had elected Pope Benedict.
Elected on March 13, 2013, Cardinal Bergoglio chose the name Francis to honor St. Francis of Assisi.
“Go out” was Pope Francis’ constant plea to every Catholic, from curial cardinals to the people in the pews. More than once, he told people that while the Bible presents Jesus as knocking at the door of people’s hearts to get in, today Jesus is knocking at the doors of parish churches trying to get out and among the people. ©CNS
CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE
With its Rome bureau founded in 1950, Catholic News Service has been providing complete, indepth coverage of the popes and the Vatican for more than 70 years. CNS Rome continues to be your fair, faithful, and informed connection to the Holy See.
DURING THIS EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL, FR. DAVID COON OFFERS THE FOLLOWING QUOTE FOR THE REFLECTION ON THE EUCHARIST:
“The divine Eucharist bestows upon the Christian people the incomparable dignity.”
—POPE ST. PAUL VI
Father Coon is Pastor of Sacred Heart Parish, Dexter. He serves the Diocese as Priest Minister for Spiritual Deliverance & Exorcism and the Confraternity of Priest Adorers of the Eucharistic Face of Jesus.
POOR CLARE MISSIONARY SISTERS DEPART POPLAR BLUFF
YOU WILL BE MISSED—Sacred Heart Parish and Catholic School in Poplar Bluff held a luncheon for its Poor Clare Missionary Sisters (MC) on Sunday, April 26. Pictured are Deacon Kevin
Henderson, Fr. Allen Kirchner, Pastor; Sr. Nelly Rivera, MC; Sr. Analidia Gonzalez, MC; Sr. Rocio Alcantar, MC, Deacon David Farris, and Fr. Samson Dorival, SMM.The religious congregation began its residency at Sacred Heart in 2009. They will be greatly missed as they move to the Cape Girardeau-Jackson area. Having theses religious sisters has been a great blessing for the parish, school, and community. (The Mirror)
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, Springfield is partnering with St. Agnes Parish to present “Rainforest Falls” Vacation Bible School (VBS)
Tuesday, June 23 – Friday, June 26, 6-8:30 pm and Saturday, June 27, from 1:30-4:15 pm, followed by Mass and a picnic dinner.
Participants and Volunteers can go to the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton website www.seaschurch.org and print out a registration form (either participant or volunteer) AND a Media Release form and either scan and email to ddumars@seaschurch.org, drop it by our Parish or to St. Agnes Parish, or mail to St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, 2200 W. Republic Road, Springfield, MO 65807, Attn: VBS. (3-4 year old Pre-School VBS offered for children of volunteers only.)
VBS is for children entering Kindergarten in the fall through those entering 6th grade in the fall. Youth entering 7-12 grades and adults are invited to volunteer. We welcome children at any time to be part of VBS, but to be guaranteed a t-shirt, we must have the registration form by Wednesday, June 3.
Please support the Bishop’s Annual Appeal
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BLUE IS THE COLOR HONORING MARY
St. Mary Parish, West Plains, had the May crowning for Our Blessed Mother, Mary, and held First Holy Communion for its second graders on May 3. A special tribute to our Blessed Mother had the guys all matching in navy suits and light blue ties. Pictured are youth Erick Horn-Macler, Landon Frazier, and Bobby Contreras who are all flanked by their parents: Ashley Horn and Jeff Macler, Justin and Charlotte Frazier, and Jesse and Angie Contreras. In the very back is Fr. Mathew (Mathukutty) Naduchirayil, VC, with altar servers Jesse Contreras and Riah Young. (Photos by John
The VIRTUS Protecting God’s Children Safe Environment training for adults is available online.
Preregistration is necessary: If you are a new registrant please go to www.virtus.org and click on “first time registrant” on the left, and follow the prompts to register for Online training. Instructions for the registration process can also be found on the Child and Youth Protection Page of the diocesan Website.
www.dioscg.org/wp-content/uploads/How-to-Register-for-a-VIRTUS-withOnline-Option.pdf
Both in-person and online training sessions are for adults only.
Before engaging in activities involving minors and/or vulnerable adults, new volunteers or employees are required to complete the VIRTUS Protecting God’s Children training for adults, submit a current Background Disclosure and Authorization Form, and read, sign and submit the annual Code of Conduct, which are available on the VIRTUS Website and the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau Child and Youth Protection Webpage: www.dioscg.org/childyouth-protection/
For more information, please contact the Office of Child and Youth Protection, childandyouthprotection@dioscg.org; or Bill Holtmeyer, billholtmeyer@dioscg.org; or Shelly Ferry, sferry@dioscg.org, (417) 866-0841.
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celebratory cake at the reception after First Communion. (Photos by John Dangelo)
ADULT FAITH/ADVERTISING
ILIGHT ONE CANDLE
Fr. Ed Dougherty, MM The Christophers’ Board of Directors
n his 1995 book on the feminine genius, Letter to Women, Pope St. John Paul II wrote, “Thank you, women who are mothers! You have sheltered human beings within yourselves in a unique experience of joy and travail. This experience makes you become God’s own smile upon the newborn child, the one who guides your child’s first steps, who helps your child to grow, and who is the anchor as your child makes their way along the journey of life.”
These words capture the essence of motherhood and properly celebrate all that mothers mean to us. From the first act of welcoming new life into the world to the loving care provided in formative years, followed by a lifetime of emotional investment, a mother’s love extends the expression of God’s love for us all.
In his Confessions, St. Augustine of Hippo prays to God, “Thou didst ‘stretch forth thy hand from above’ and didst draw up my soul out of that profound darkness because my mother, thy faithful one, wept to thee on my behalf more than mothers are accustomed to weep for the bodily deaths of their children. …And thou didst hear her, O Lord.”
In this meditation on the loving disposition of his own mother, St.
Gratitude for Mothers
Monica, Augustine reveals the greatest love any mother can show to a child, which is to desire their salvation. The triumph of motherhood is found in every moment a child is pointed toward God and pointed toward their own unique path to sainthood.
The dramatic turnaround Augustine credits to his mother exemplifies a universal dynamic between mother and child. In our most trying moments, we look to our mothers as intercessors, and we learn to engage this dynamic early in life in our reliance on mothers. But as we grow, this relationship deepens and we realize how much our mothers are like Mary, mother of Christ and mother to all.
A mother emulates Mary ’s loving intercession in countless ways. She intercedes with others on our behalf as we navigate the travails of growing up, and she intercedes in prayer to God as we make our way in the world. Just as St. Augustine credits his mother for interceding in prayer to overcome his obstacles, so, too, should we credit our mothers for everything we accomplish in life, because we are constantly benefiting from all our mothers have done and all they continue to do in joining their hearts to God in prayer to will the good for us.
Edith Stein, who became St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, wrote, “A woman’s soul is fashioned as a shelter in which other souls may unfold.”
This bit of wisdom reveals a profound truth about all women who
embrace God’s call to care for others, and motherhood expresses this calling in such a tangible way. It is a calling to protect, nurture, guide, and provide, even in difficult times. It is a sacrificial role that we depend on to grow and flourish in a challenging world.
All this brings us to a sense of immense gratitude, and that is yet another way mothers deepen our relationship with God, because no one awakens us to a sense of gratitude like our mothers. This gratitude we experience toward our mothers for their tenderness and steady guidance invariably points us to a sense of gratitude for God’s mercy and wisdom.
So, may we always honor God by honoring our mothers and live in a state of joyful gratitude for the many wonderful gifts in life bestowed upon us. ©TM
THE GIFT OF SALVATION—The 19th century fresco of St. Monica and her son, St. Augustine, in Basilica di Sant Agostino (Augustine) by Pietro Gagliardi. In his meditation on the loving disposition of his own mother, St. Monica, St. Augustine of Hippo reveals the greatest love any mother can show to a child, which is to desire their salvation. (Getty images)
Fr. Ed Dougherty, MM, serves on the Board of Directors for The Christophers, a non-profit organization founded in 1945 by Maryknoll priest Fr. James Keller. Based on the motto “It’s better to light one candle than to curse the darkness,” the group’s mission is to empower people to “bring positive and constructive values into the mainstream of life.” The organization spreads its message through the Christopher
Dear Catholic Women,
You are cordially invited to join with your “Catholic Sisters in Christ” for a wonderful, spiritually-enriching day together. The keynote speaker will be Father Joseph Kelly, Spiritual Director of the DCCW of Springfield/Cape Girardeau. We are also blessed to have The Very Reverend Shoby M. Chettiyath, Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia of Springfield/Cape Girardeau. We are pleased to have three prominent and experienced women from across our diocese also share information with us, Deb Bader, Rita Lueckenotte, and Mary Williams. Breakfast and lunch will be served. A singing rosary by the ladies of St Mary in West Plains and Mass will be included with Father Simon Enudu
Let us unite and build our faith together, plus spend time and fellowship as we celebrate Mary’s “fiat” (her “yes” to God) to becoming the Mother of the Eucharist.
News Notes (pamphlets), “Three Minutes a Day” devotional books, and the Christopher Closeup radio show/Podcast. While rooted in Roman Catholic tradition, The Christophers engage people of all faiths.
For free copies of the Christopher News Note NURTURING SEEDS OF FAITH AND HOPE, write: The Christophers, 264 West 40th St., Room 603, New York, NY 10018; or Email: mail@christophers.org
