It’s summer…time for Totus Tuus!
By Paula Wright Springfield, MO
Each summer, a team of collegeaged missionaries travel to parishes across southern Missouri to present a week-long, fun-filled, and educational Catholic program for all youth in 1st – 12th grade called “Totus Tuus” (“Totally Yours”), the motto of Pope St. John Paul II. These young men and women are hired for their energy, enthusiasm, love of the Faith, commitment to spiritual growth, ability to work as a team, and a desire to work with youth. The methodology, structure, content, and enthusiasm of Totus Tuus is concerned not only with teaching the Faith, but also igniting the hearts of the team members and the young people they encounter.
Teams of four young adults (two men and two women) travel to a different parish each week, hosting a five-day catechetical program. The week is filled with faith, fun, and friendship. There are messy games and crazy skits as well as catechetical learning joined with prayer and sacrament.
The college-age missionaries provide an authentic witness to the students.
Meet the missionaries
Missionaries for this summer include two seminarians, two returning missionaries, and a group of eight enthusiastic, faithfilled, God-loving collegiates. They are:
Ginny Young (returning missionary) from St. Marie du Lac Parish, Ironton; current member of the St. John Henry Newman Center (Catholic Campus Ministry [CCM]) at Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO), Cape Girardeau.
The next issue of The Mirror will be July 4, 2025 Sign up to receive the diocesan newspaper via Email in digital format: Contact Debbie Thompson at (417) 866-0841, or Email: dthompson@dioscg.org.
Aaron Workman from Herrin, IL; current member of St. John Henry Newman Center at SEMO.
Autumn Acosta from St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, Springfield; current member
of O’Reilly Catholic Campus Ministry (CCM) at Missouri State University (MSU), Springfield.
Diocesan seminarian Nathan Haak from Holy Trinity Parish, Springfield; attending Conception Seminary College, in northern Missouri.
Diocesan seminarian Damian Criddle from St. Mary of the Annunciation Cathedral, Cape Girardeau; attending Conception Seminary College, Conception, MO.
Langley Miller, a graduate of McAuley Catholic High School, Joplin; attended both St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church and St. Mary Catholic Church, Joplin; current member of CCM at Missouri Southern University, Joplin.
Nikolaus (Niko) Musgrave from Holy Trinity Parish, Springfield; current member of CCM at MSU.
Katie Penkalski (returning missionary) from St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, Springfield; current member of CCM at MSU.
Training prepares the missionaries
To prepare for their summer mission work, the Totus Tuus missionaries attended a recent training retreat held in Wichita, KS. The Mirror caught up with them after training and before the first Totus Tuus event:
“The training was very, very fruitful,” said Totus Tuus Leader Ginny Young. “We had a lot of time for team-building, which is really important before we go out to serve the kids. We spent time getting to know each other and learning how to work together.”
Interestingly, and unique to this team, most of the missionaries knew each other, or knew of each other, prior to joining
THE 5 PILLARS OF TOTUS TUUS
1. The Eucharist 2. Marian Devotion 3. Catechetical Instruction 4. Vocational Discernment 5. Fun
The Eucharist has pride of place in the Totus Tuus schedule, for both team members and youth. Prayer: The Liturgy of the Hours, the Rosary, the Angelus, the Chaplet of Divine Mercy, and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament provide the structure, but the celebration of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is the “source and summit” of the daily schedule.
Totus Tuus catechists and counselors (missionaries) will lead the young people to Jesus for a week; however, Mary will lead them to Jesus for a lifetime. Therefore, Totus Tuus promotes Marian devotion. Meditating on the mysteries of the Rosary, we come to see how Mary always leads us to her Son. Praying with her, we hear her say to us, “Do whatever He tells you” (Jn 2:5). ©TM
the Totus Tuus 2025 team. They had met through their university’s Catholic Campus Ministry or Newman Center. This has helped the team connect.
In addition to team-building, the missionaries also learned how to instruct and share both the gospel and the Catholic faith in a meaningful way.
“I think about what one of our teachers said during training, ‘Head,
TOTUS TUUS The summer program of Totus Tuus was celebrated June 15-20 in St. Lawrence Parish, New Hamburg, with youth in 1st-12th grades. (The Mirror)
COME, AND YOU WILL SEE
Bp. Edward M. Rice
This past June 2 - 6, Bishop John Leibrecht and I, along with 34 other priests of the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau, attended the annual retreat at the Mercy Center, St. Louis, MO. We were privileged to have as our Retreat Director, Fr. Denis Lemieux, from Marian Acres, just north of Salem, MO. Fr. Lemieux belongs to the Madonna House, a Catholic community of laity and priests who model the Holy family in the hiddenness of Nazareth, following Mary as the perfect disciple. Both priests and laity commit to poverty, chastity, and obedience.
What I learned while on retreat!
After the opening conference on Monday evening, I was hooked! Fr. Lemieux began by discussing the pastoral challenges of the diocese and the strain caused by visa issues for our international priests and religious, along with the ongoing issues around finances, and our particular demographics and logistics. We live under this strain all the time while we strive to serve our people. Then, the words of Fr. Lemieux hit me right between the eyes when he said:
“When life gets complicated, we have to get simple. Complex situations require a deep, profound spiritual simplicity. All of our efforts and plans must flow from a childlike simplicity, littleness, spiritual poverty and humility.”
I was entranced! Fr. Denis reminded us, “If the Lord does not build the house, in vain do we labor.” (Ps. 127:1) I know I will carry that insight with me for a long time to come.
RADICAL POVERTY
He highlighted the “little way” of St. Teresa of Lisieux. Given all of our
responsibilities with the parish and the diocese, each of us is called to be little. When the burden is big, we’re called to be small, inwardly utterly poor. By this we can approach our pastoral duties striving to be channels of the Father’s love and grace. To be simple is beyond childlikeness. It is to live in such a way that we face the essential matters of faith and love with a “naked vulnerability” before Christ and the demands that the Gospel makes upon us. It is Christ who has given us everything and it is Christ who demands everything, and we who struggle to respond, influenced by many exterior concerns, we respond poorly. To be a follower of Christ, is to give our all to the point of martyrdom, to the point of exhaustion, burnout, and physical pain after long years of service. It is the radical poverty of living day-by-day in the troubles that we cannot solve. If we do not give ourselves totally to Christ in radical poverty, then we create our own idols. But when we do give ourselves totally, we are on the road to a
martyrdom of self.
Simplicity calls us to return to the essential choice, made on a daily basis of living for God or self, martyrdom or idolatry. All of this wisdom was imparted to us at the very first conference on the very first day. I knew it was going to be a good retreat with more valuable spiritual wisdom to come as the week unfolded!
As the retreat progressed, Fr. Lemieux reminded us that Christ came to us clothed in littleness and simplicity, almost “disguised,” as the carpenter son of Nazareth. At Nazareth, Jesus was hidden and obscure and in that Nazareth reality, the heart of the Christian mystery, our God, is with us. The God beyond all ages entered into our age and made all things holy. And because of that, we are called to live through Him, with Him and in Him so that all that we do is with Christ the Worker, Christ the Servant, Christ the Lover, and Christ the Sufferer. Even in our sinfulness He meets us with His precious blood and mercy. That action has allowed the sacred to penetrate the profane. Due to the Incarnation, nothing is truly profane or secular. Not one moment, not one bit, because of Jesus. And so our response is to be faithful to the “duty of the moment” with wholehearted attention to the responsibilities given to us and there we find this beautiful radical proclamation of the gospel: God is with us in all things. We live in a culture where we’re told, “Bigger is better.” Jesus teaches the power of love so that whatever we do in the course of the day, be it laundry, school, or the office, if God can’t be involved in that particular activity, then he is not God. No, the power of
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.
June 25, 1993 A father told his teenage daughter: “I want you home this evening by 11:30.” The daughter objected and said: “Dad, I’m no longer a child!” The father responded quickly: “I know! That’s why I want you home by 11:30.”
July 9, 1993 A big city native from the East was being led through the swamps of Georgia. “Is it true,” he asked, “that an alligator won’t attack you if you carry a flashlight?” The guide replied quickly: “That depends on how fast you carry the flashlight.”
July 23, 1993 The Old Testament reading during Mass referred to the story about Joseph being sold into slavery by his own brothers. “What’s your reaction to Joseph being sold by his brothers?” I recently asked some Camp-Re-NEW-All participants. Hearing a boy say, “That’s cool.” With great surprise in my voice I asked, “Cool?” The boy responded quickly, “Bishop, I didn’t say, ‘That’s cool.’ I said, ‘That’s cruel.’”
the incarnation is that God is there in the midst of our daily duties and responsibilities, so we are called to do the little things well for the love of God.
“O Sacrament Most Holy, O Sacrament Divine, all praise and all thanksgiving, be every moment Thine.” ©TM
heart, hands. Teach the children the information so they understand it in their minds, so they can feel God’s love in their hearts, so they can live their faith through their hands,’” said Missionary Langley Miller, “That has really stayed with me!”
DIOCESAN NEWS/ADVERTISING
Tuus when I was younger, so I am really excited for the chance to run the program I once attended.”
Autumn Acosta added, “I have attended the Totus Tuus program in the past. I really enjoyed it, and I really like working with kids. My brother, Tyler, served for two years, and I was able to see the fruits of his time in Totus Tuus. He credits it as one of the most faith-filled times in his life, and a huge part of his personal salvation story. I saw the changes that he was able to make in his life through Totus Tuus, and I really want that.”
Dedicating their summer to Totus Tuus
A few of the young-adult missionaries had experienced Totus Tuus in their own youth and wanted to share their enthusiasm with others.
“ When I was younger, I attended Totus Tuus and thought it was a great program. I had a lot of positive experiences from it,” Missionary and Seminarian Damian Criddle shared. “This summer, the diocese asked me to help. I absolutely enjoyed Totus
Others want to enhance their skills or to visit parishes outside of their own.
“Getting to see more of our diocese was one of the reasons I wanted to do this, to be immersed in our diocese in areas I have not experienced before,” said diocesan Seminarian and Missionary Nathan Haak.
“I joined Totus Tuus because I want a chance to expand my teaching skills, but especially to proclaim the gospel in a way I think I know how, which is through teaching in a classroom setting,” Aaron Workman, a senior in education at SEMO, said. “And also, just the opportunity to have fun with everything.”
Goals for the summer
The missionaries look forward to sharing the gospels and God’s love with the youth they meet.
Missionary Niko Musgrave, said, “It’s my hope that we bring the joy of the gospel to the children of these parishes through everything we do, every action and word that we do.”
The missionaries want to be a young adult model for the youth at Totus Tuus.
“Such a big part of my experience as a kid in Totus Tuus was just having that young adult presence. Many of the parishes we go to do not have a practicing young adult community,” said Ginny Young. “I think it is really important to show the kids that you can continue your faith once you move on from being a child and are out of school. It is important just being a witness to them.”
In addition, the missionaries hope to also share the message to be a proud Catholic, to feel welcomed (at church), and know they are loved.
MASS & SEND OFF—Bishop Edward M. Rice celebrated Mass and breakfast on May 28 at his residence with the 2025 Totus Tuus Missionaries and Simon Elfrink, diocesan Associate Director of Youth Ministry. Totus Tuus runs from now until its last session July 20-25, in Leopold and Neosho. (The Mirror)
“The biggest thing for me is for them (attendees) to leave knowing they are loved and welcomed in our church … to leave (Totus Tuus) and be like, ‘I am loved and I can go live my faith proudly, to learn more about it, because these missionaries were able to show me that,’” Katie Penkalski said.
Bishop Edward Rice encouragement
Prior to departing for their training retreat in Wichita, Bishop Edward Rice celebrated Mass with the missionaries in the chapel at his residence. In his homily, he reminded them of their connection to St. Paul the Apostle.
“The missionary work initiated by St. Paul continues today with all of you! Like St. Paul, focus on the mission, be faithful, be a support to one another,
Bishop Rice encouraged them, “stay focused on the goal of spreading the Good News and let Jesus worry about any success or failure. I thank you for your work here in the diocese. You’re giving up your summer to spread the Gospel. May Our Lady, the first to evangelize, inspire you in your work.”
Register for a Totus Tuus program
Totus Tuus schedule and locations are as follows: Missionaries rolled into Portageville and West Plains the week of June 8-13. On June 15-20, they were in New Hamburg & Mountain Grove. On June 22-27—Ozark & Monett. There is still time to register for:
July 6-11—Glennonville & Aurora
July 13-18—Fredericktown & Carthage
July 20-25—Leopold & Neosho
Individual Registration is $15 for the first child and $15 for each sibling, with a $45 max cost per family. Adult volunteers are free. Thank you for volunteering!
The evening programs for 7th - 12th graders run Sunday night through Thursday night. The daytime programs for 1st - 6th graders run Monday through Friday.
To register for a Totus Tuus near you, visit: https://dioscg.org/event/ totus-tuus/ Totus Tuus is supported by monies raised during the Bishop’s Annual Appeal—the Diocesan Development Fund, as well as participant grants made available from the Youth Endowment Fund. Thank you for supporting DDF and the Youth Endowment Fund, making Totus Tuus possible for diocesan youth! ©TM
HERE’S ... CHOCOLATE SYRUP IN YOUR EYE Diocesan seminarian Damian Criddle volunteered to be a human sundae during his missionary work with the summer Totus Tuus program held June 8-13 in St. Mary Parish, West Plains. (Photo by Ann Hall/The Mirror)
INSPIRED BY MILLENNIAL SOON-TO-BESAINT, IRISH TEENS CREATE ANIMATED LEGO-CARLO ACUTIS FILM
By Sarah Mac Donald Dublin, OSV News
ILEGO CARLO ACUTIS ANIMATION Blessed Carlo Acutis stands near his computer in a scene from a stop-motion animation Lego-Carlo Acutis film made by three brothers in County Limerick, Ireland, and released in mind-May 2025 on their YouTube channel, Fiontar Floinn. To the right in the background is a photo of Carlo (1996-2006).
(OSV News photo/courtesy Flynn family)
n rural Limerick, three teenage brothers are turning Lego into a tool for evangelization. Inspired by Blessed Carlo Acutis — the first millennial on the path to sainthood — Louis, Oliver and Iosaf Flynn have created a five-minute stop-motion animation film titled “The Incredible Life of Carlo Acutis.” The film, produced entirely at home using Stop Motion Studio Pro and iMovie, highlights Carlo’s devotion to the Eucharist and his use of technology to share the faith. Their YouTube channel, Fiontar Floinn — Irish for Flynn Enterprises — features animations of saints such as St. Patrick and Our Lady of Guadalupe. Iosaf, 14, “does the narrating and set-building for the films,” while Louis, 16, and Oliver, 18, do “the animating (filming all the shots) and planning.” Homeschooling gave the brothers the flexibility to dive deep into Carlo’s story, even adding fun “Easter eggs” like a tiny Nutella jar, one of Carlo’s favorite treats. Their goal? To inspire their generation. “Holiness is possible today,” said 16-year-old Louis. “It’s about sharing a message that matters.” ©OSV News
FLYNN FAMILY LIMERICK COUNTY IRELAND Blessed Carlo Acutis continues to inspire a new generation of digital evangelists, including three Flynn brothers in the small rural parish of Kilcornan in Ireland’s County Limerick, who have produced a stop-motion animation Lego-Carlo Acutis film. In an undated photo are the Flynn siblings. In the back row are the filmmakers, from left: Iosaf, 14, Louis, 16, and Oliver, 18. In the front from left are Teddy, 10, and Maria, 12. (OSV News photo/courtesy Flynn family)
Join Bishop Rice on the First Friday of each month to pray for an increase in Vocations to the priesthood and religious life in the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau. The Rosary will be prayed following the liturgy. Parishes are invited to do the same as we continue to pray for more vocations to the priesthood and religious life in the diocese.
Prices are all inclusive w/airfare from anywhere in the continental US.
Several trips to different destinations: Holy Land, Italy, Greece, France, Portugal, Spain, Lourdes & Fatima, Ireland & Scotland and much more...
https://www.youtube.com/@ FiontarFloinn
We specialize in custom trips for Bishops, Priests & Deacons! Currently hiring Deacons to promote our many pilgrimages. ATTRACTIVE compensation.
For more information contact: Karen@proximotravel.com
To register call 855-842-8001 or at www.proximotravel.com.
DURING THIS EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL, FR. DAVID COON OFFERS THE FOLLOWING QUOTE FOR THE REFLECTION ON THE EUCHARIST:
“If the Eucharist is the Memorial of the Passover of the Lord Jesus, if by our communion at the altar we are filled ‘with every Heavenly blessing and grace,’ then the Eucharist is also an anticipation of the Heavenly glory.”
— ROMAN CANON
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.
DIOCESAN NEWS/ADVERTISING
FRUITS OF THE SPIRIT WINNERS
HONORED AT CLOSE OF SCHOOL YEAR
FRUITS OF THE SPIRIT WINNERS—The 18 winners of the Fruits of the Spirit posed with Fr. Joseph Kelly in Guardian Angel Catholic Church, Oran, for a group picture after the close of the school year Mass held May 14. Pictured are (front row)-Kase King, Clara Vetter, Carter Hulshof, Mae Roper, Christa Kern, August Graviett, Tolson VanGennip, and Sadie Seyer; (second row)-Tennyson VanGennip, Lane Seyer, Case Taylor, Paxton Urhahn, Amelia Kyle, Kambrie Seabaugh, and Aubrey Graviett; (back row)-Elaina Hahn, Fr. Kelly, Harper Gadberry, and Elizabeth David. (The Mirror)
Oran, MO
The Guardian Angel Catholic School academic session (2024-25) was dedicated to the Fruits of the Holy Spirit. On Wed., May 14, the 18 winners were recognized at the end of the school liturgy celebrated by Father Joseph Kelly in Guardian Angel Church. Each month, two students were selected by the faculty who most closely represented the fruit of spirit highlighted that month. The fruits for each month and the two students selected from September-May were: JOY Kase King (K) & Amelia Kyle (3rd); FAITHFULNESS—Sadie Seyer (1st) & Aubrey Graviett (3rd); GOODNESS—Carter Hulshof (PK-3) & Elaina Hahn (6th); PATIENCE—Mae Roper (2nd) & Harper Gadberry (7th); KINDNESS—Clara Vetter (1st) & Kambrie Seabaugh (5th); LOVE August Graviett (1st) & Case Taylor (2nd); PEACE—Tolson VanGennip (PK-4) & Elizabeth David (5th); SELF CONTROL—Paxton Urhahn (K) & Lane Seyer (2nd); and lastly, GENTLENESS—Christa Kern (PK3) & Tennyson VanGennip (2nd). Each winner was given a T-shirt as well as a coupon book (K-7) or treat, soda, and stickers (PK). ©TM
of the 2024-25 Fruits of the Spirit winners and how the teacher had described the student that won. (The
Conception Seminary College announces Spring 2025 Dean’s List
Conception, MO
The Office of the Registrar at Conception Seminary College, in Conception, MO, recently announced the students named to the Dean’s List for the 2025 Spring semester, which includes two diocesan seminarians: Damian Criddle, of St. Mary of the Annunciation Cathedral Parish, Cape Girardeau, and
Nathan Haak, of Holy Trinity Parish, Springfield.
To be included on the Dean’s List, a student must be enrolled as a fulltime student and earn a 3.70 GPA or higher on at least 12 semester credit hours. A list of students meeting those requirements by diocesan affiliation can be found below.
Conception Seminary College is a four-year liberal arts college seminary preparing candidates for ministry in the Roman Catholic Church through human, spiritual, intellectual, and pastoral formation in the Benedictine tradition. ©TM
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Aurora—All are welcome as Holy Trinity Parish will have First Saturday devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, every first Saturday with a rosary at 7:30 a.m., followed by Mass at 8 a.m.
Cape Girardeau Worldwide Marriage Encounter: Join the millions of couples worldwide that have learned how to keep their marriage vibrant and alive! The emphasis of Worldwide Marriage Encounter is on communication between husband and wife, who spend a weekend together away from the distractions and the tensions of everyday-life, to concentrate solely on each other. The next Marriage Encounter experience will be held Aug. 1-3, 2025 at the Drury Plaza, Cape Girardeau. For more information, go to https://wwme. org/.
Oran—Join us July 4 for the Annual Oran Picnic, sponsored by the Knights of Columbus Council #4311. Buffetstyle dinner will be served 11 a.m.-3 p.m. (carry-out only 3-5 p.m.). Roast beef, fried chicken, dressing, and all the trimmings, served with drinks & dessert.
Cost: $15-All-You-Can-Eat; $5-children, ages 6-12 yrs.,; children under age 6: free. Special Attractions: Music by Classy Chassy Country-3-6 p.m./Whippoorwill Holler-6:30-9:30 p.m.; Horseshoe Tournament-9 pits, tournament held under roof and is an OPEN tournament, entry fee is $10, registration begins at 12-Noon; Pedal Tractor Pull-4 p.m.; Cornhole Tournament-4:30 p.m. Entry fee is $10, registration begins at 3:30 p.m.; Fireworks Display-9:30 p.m. Refreshments & Food of all kinds will be served.
Springfield—Sacred Heart Church will hold its Annual Garage Sale, Fri., July 25, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sat., July 26, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., and again the following weekend, Aug. 1-2, with the same hours. Clothing, including X-large sizes for adults, a variety of coats, small appliances, linens, specialty items, sports equipment, and much more. Please stop by and pick up some treasures to take home.
Parishes and organizations are invited to submit notices of future events to be printed on a space-available basis. There is no fee.
PRIEST:
Rev. Rahab Isidor, July 28, 19 yrs.
DEACON:
Deacon Horacio Quiles, July 11, 16 yrs.
HAAK
CRIDDLE
WALL OF HONOR—The wall of honor in Guardian Angel Catholic School celebrated the winners
Mirror)
DIOCESAN NEWS/ADULT FAITH
How Jesus’ visits to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque SPREAD LOVE OF HIS SACRED HEART
By Fr. Ed Dougherty, MM OSV News
Every liturgical year on the third Friday following the great feast of Pentecost, we celebrate the solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The heart has always represented the whole person, and the heart of Jesus is the symbol of his eternal love for us. The solemnity is our opportunity to acknowledge his love and offer repentance for the times when we have ignored his affection.
It was a young nun named Margaret Mary Alacoque of the Visitation order at Paray-le-Monial, France, who would become Jesus’ conduit to spread devotion to the Sacred Heart throughout the Roman Church.
June 27, 2025, marks the end of the 350th anniversary of the apparitions of the Sacred Heart of Jesus to St. Margaret Mary. The Church has been celebrating this anniversary since Dec. 27, 2023, the 350th anniversary of the first apparition.
ENDLESS BLESSINGS, MERCY & LOVE
Honoring Jesus’ Sacred Heart is an ancient devotion that began when the Roman soldier stuck his spear into the side of our crucified savior and God’s grace, in the form of water and blood, flowed from his side, from his heart. Saints, theologians, writers, and individuals have long recognized the Sacred Heart as the source of endless blessings, mercy, and love. But for centuries it was mostly a personal devotion.
In the 17th century, Catholicism was under attack from the spread of Protestantism and the heretical beliefs of Jansenism. The Jansenists, who were Catholics, claimed that only a chosen few people would reach heaven and that God was to be feared. They degraded the
humanity of Jesus, including his heart, and wanted the church to return to rigorous penances of the past. Both Protestantism and Jansenism impacted the fervor the faithful had for many Church teachings.
Beginning in 1673 and over a period of more than 18 months, Sr. Margaret Mary claimed to have received visions during which our Lord Jesus displayed his Sacred Heart as the symbol of his love for mankind and told Sr. Margaret Mary that she was to be his instrument to spread a universal devotion to his divine heart.
In one vision, Jesus appeared with his “divine heart, enthroned, as it were, in flames, was surrounded by a crown of thorns, and the wound it had received was still open, while a cross more brilliant than the sun, surmounted all,” according to “The Beauties of the Catholic Church” by F.J. Shadler.
FIRST FRIDAY DEVOTION
Margaret Mary said Jesus told her that despite loving mankind so much that he gave his life for them, he was being treated with irreverence, coldness, and ingratitude. He wanted the world to recognize the love he continually poured out for them symbolized by his Sacred Heart and for mankind to make amends for their ingratitude.
He urged Sr. Margaret Mary to begin a personal devotion to his divine heart by receiving holy Communion every first Friday and spending an hour in prayer the night before, both focused on seeking his pardon and making prayerful reparations for mankind’s desertion of his love.
In another vision, Jesus asked her to establish a Church feast day to honor his Sacred Heart. On that day, those faithful to Jesus would attend Mass, receive holy Communion, profess their love, and offer reparations for the way he had been insulted by mankind. These visions are the basis for the First Friday devotions and the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus we have today. The love and compassion of Jesus’ heart dispels the heresies of Jansenism.
When Margaret Mary first attempted to explain the visions, many around her were skeptical. It was St. Claude de la Colombiere, her Jesuit spiritual adviser, who recognized her holiness, fervor, and sincerity. However, even when she was believed, as a cloistered nun there was little she could do to foster her visions outside of her order. Thus it was St. Colombiere, along with St. John Eudes, who would continue promoting a Sacred Heart feast day to the faithful and to the Holy See. Universal approval eventually came from the Vatican in August 1856 during the reign of Pope Pius IX (r. 1846-78). In 1899, Pope Leo XIII (r. 1878-1903), encouraged by Catholics around the world, consecrated the human race to the Sacred Heart.
June is dedicated to the Sacred Heart, with the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart celebrated annually on the Friday after Corpus Christi, June 27, 2025. This year’s feast marks the end of the 350th anniversary of the apparitions to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque
Lord holding his flaming compassionate and merciful heart. Many homes are consecrated to the Sacred Heart.
During Eucharistic adoration we revere the Sacred Heart in our Benediction prayers: “May the heart of Jesus, in the most Blessed Sacrament, be praised, adored and loved with grateful affection, at every moment in all the tabernacles of the world, even until the end of time.”
Solemnity of the most sacred Heart of Jesus
June 27, 2025
In our time, the devotion is celebrated every first Friday Mass, and the solemnity is part of the Church liturgical calendar. The devotion is acknowledged through numerous prayers and depicted in thousands of images, including the image of Our
Bishop Rice will celebrate two Masses on Fri., June 27, the Feast of the Sacred Heart, which will be offered for an increase in Vocations in our diocese:
10:30 a.m.–St. Joseph the Worker Parish, Ozark
5:30 p.m.–St. Agnes Cathderal, Springfield *Reconciliation at 4:30 p.m.
Margaret Mary died in 1690 and was canonized in 1920. Some argue that, like in the 17th century, our fervor for the Sacred Heart is again waning today. Turning to the visions and words of Margaret Mary, once again we can rally to this symbol, this source of Christ’s love. ©
D.D. Emmons writes from Pennsylvania
25-year volunteer recognized for community impact
By Dotty Wencewicz Cape Girardeau
Michele Wittenborn, a member of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, in Cape Girardeau, recently received an Episcopal Blessing from Bishop Edward Rice for her 25 years of service leading Maxine’s Shareable Wearables, as its Director. Maxine’s is a clothing ministry supported by the parish. Wittenborn will be leaving the ministry and Cape Girardeau when she and her husband, Brad, soon move to be closer to family.
History of the outreach ministry It was the year 2000 when Maxine Kiermeier began “Maxine’s Shareable Wearables” after then-Pastor Milton Ryan, CM, challenged the parish to widen its ministries to the poor in the spirit of the parish’s patron: St. Vincent de Paul. Other outreach programs that were established at this time included Vincent’s Vittles (monthly community meal) and Catherine’s Cupboard (weekly grocery collection), both of which also continue today. Soon after the ministry was established, Maxine became ill with cancer. On her deathbed, she asked Wittenborn to keep the ministry alive. She agreed and has developed the clothing closet into a well-established resource within the Cape Girardeau-area, serving an average of 100 clients a month. Clients must
have a referral from a local agency or church. Local agencies that regularly refer clients include Gibson Center, Safe House, Community Counseling Center, Amen Center, and many others. All clothing is given out at zero cost to individuals of all ages. Clients also receive a bag of toiletries on their first visit, and often bedding and towels are provided as well if available. Maxine’s receives its clothing and other items from parishioners of St. Vincent de Paul and other local Catholic churches as well as members of the broader community. Both St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Grade School and Notre Dame Regional High School have clothing drives to benefit Maxine’s.
Volunteers staff the ministry which is open Thursday and Saturday mornings in the lower level of the old convent behind the DePaul Center (old Notre Dame High School). Local agencies bring clients on Thursdays, and the public visits on Saturdays. Volunteers sort and mend clothes if needed, assist clients, and keep the shelves and clothing racks stocked year-round, rotating inventory as the seasons require. ©TM
closer to family. (Submitted photo)
CCSOMO STAFFING UPDATES in Cape Girardeau
Cape Girardeau
Catholic Charities of Southern Missouri (CCSOMO) is pleased to announce three key staffing changes in Cape Girardeau, reflecting continued growth and a commitment to quality and compassionate service in southeast Missouri.
Caitlin Sparkman has been named Program Administrator for the Developmental Disability Services (DD) program, following Gina Blocker’s retirement in April 2025. Sparkman has been with the DD program for 10 years, serving in a variety of roles, most recently as Program Manager since October 2023.
“Caitlin has been a dedicated member of our team for over a decade,” said Jeremy Rowland, Chief Program Operations Officer. “She worked closely with our former Program Administrator to ensure a seamless transition. I’m excited to see the program continue to excel under her leadership.”
Tracy Morrow has been named Maternal and Family Programs Administrator over both LifeHouse Crisis Maternity Home locations in Springfield and Cape Girardeau. Morrow joined the agency in January 2025 as the Program Manager at LifeHouse in Cape Girardeau. She brings 20 years of experience in family services to the position, having more recently served as the Director of Children, Youth, and Family Services for the Community Partnership of Southeast Missouri.
“ With Tracy’s well-established history of community service in the southeast Missouri region, Catholic Charities appreciates the expertise and networks she brings to our agency,” said Ken Palermo, CEO. “The LifeHouse program has an even brighter future ahead.”
Finally, CCSOMO’s Advancement team welcomed Cameron Borders as Development Officer. A Cape Girardeau native, Borders graduated from Southeast Missouri State University and brings experience in event and campaign management after working on political campaigns in Jefferson City.
“ We’re excited to welcome Cameron Borders to the Advancement Team at Catholic Charities,” said Suzanne Cronkhite, Chief Advancement Officer. “In his key role as Development Officer, Cameron will help strengthen support for our mission in Cape Girardeau and the surrounding areas. His background in community engagement and events makes him a perfect fit for this position.”
The service footprint for Catholic Charities in southeast Missouri has always been significant. With these staff additions, all based in Cape Girardeau, the community will be reminded of our team’s commitment to serve those in need.
For more information about Catholic Charities of Southern Missouri and its services, please visit www.ccsomo.org.
SERVICE DIRECTOR TO LEAVE THE AREA—Pastor Fr. Rick Jones is pictured with 25-year volunteer Michele Wittenborn with her episcopal blessing from Bishop Edward M. Rice recognizing her 25 years of service as Director of Maxine’s Shareable Wearables, an outreach ministry of St. Vincent de Paul Parish, Cape Girardeau. Wittenborn and her husband are moving out of the Cape Girardeau area to be
Sparkman
US Bishops’ Secretariat of Child and Youth Protection Releases Annual Report
Washington
The US Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Secretariat of Child and Youth Protection has released the 2024 Annual Report – Findings and Recommendations on the Implementation of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People
The report is based on the audit findings of StoneBridge Business Partners, a consulting firm which provides forensic, internal, and compliance audit services, in which the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau participates annually. A survey regarding allegations of abuse of minors and costs that is annually conducted by the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate (CARA) at Georgetown University is also included as a part of the report.
This is the twenty-second such report since 2002 when the US bishops established and adopted the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, a comprehensive framework of procedures to address allegations of sexual abuse of minors by Catholic clergy and establish protocols to protect children and young people.
EDUCATION & TRAINING—Youth participate in Totus Tuus in Mountain Grove, MO. The Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau and its Affiliates promote a Zero-Tolerance Policy regarding sexual misconduct and are committed to creating and maintaining a safe environment for all of God’s people. All clergy, employees, religious, and volunteers are required to be background checked and be in compliance with the diocesan “Code of Conduct for Clergy, Employees, and Adult Volunteers Working With Minors,” and are VIRTUS trained through its “Protecting God’s Children” program. (The Mirror)
The 2024 report covers July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024. During that period, 902 allegations were reported by 855 victims-survivors of child sexual abuse by clergy throughout 195 Catholic dioceses and eparchies that reported information. This is a decrease of 406 allegations reported in the previous audit year. Out of the 902 allegations, a total of 548, or 61%, were brought to the attention of the diocesan/eparchial representatives through an attorney, making this the principal reporting method during the 2024 audit period. Allegations made by spouses, relatives, or other representatives such as other dioceses/eparchies, religious orders, clergy members, or law enforcement officials on behalf of the victim-survivor were additional methods of reporting, totaling 118 allegations. The remaining 236 allegations were made by selfdisclosure.
During the current audit period, dioceses and eparchies provided outreach and support services to 146 victim-survivors and their families who reported during this audit period. Continued support was provided to 1,434 victim-survivors and their families who reported abuse in prior audit periods. The report notes the ongoing work of the Catholic Church in continuing the call to ensure the safety of children and vulnerable adults. In
2024, the Church conducted 2,237,906 background checks on clergy, employees, and volunteers. In addition, in 2024, over 2.2 million adults and over 2.8 million children and youth were trained in how to identify the warning signs of abuse and how to report those signs.
For the 2024 audit year, 195 of 196 dioceses/eparchies fully participated in the 2024 data collection process and one diocese did not participate. StoneBridge physically visited 48 dioceses/eparchies and utilized remote technologies to perform 22 additional remote visits to dioceses and eparchies, for a total of 70 on-site audit visits and collected data from an additional 125 others. Of the 70 dioceses/eparchies that participated in the on-site audits that took place between February and December 2024, there were four findings of noncompliance with certain aspects of the Charter involving two locations. Compliance with the Charter was determined based on implementation efforts from the date of the last audit visit through 2024.
CARA completed their data collection for the 2024 annual survey in January 2025. All but two of the 196 dioceses and eparchies of the USCCB completed the survey, for a response rate of 99%. The findings indicate that among 97 alleged perpetrators that were classified, more than four-fifths of the alleged offenders identified
between July 1, 2023, and June 30, 2024, are deceased, already removed from ministry, already laicized, or missing (84%). Another 11 priests or deacons identified during fiscal year 2024 were permanently removed from ministry during that time (11%). Four alleged offenders were temporarily removed from ministry pending investigation of the allegations (4%). One alleged offender remained in active ministry during that fiscal year pending the investigation (1%).
For the 2024 audit period, there are four findings of non-compliance with certain articles of the Charter involving one eparchy and one diocese.
The Diocese of Our Lady of Deliverance
Syriac Catholic Church in the USA was found to be non-compliant with Article 12 of the Charter due to the absence of a safe environment training program for minors, in addition to, failure to provide safe environment training to the majority of their volunteers. They were also found non-compliant with Article 13 of the Charter for not completing background checks for the majority of their volunteers. The Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown was found non-compliant with Article 2 of the Charter due to not having a functioning Review Board throughout their audit period. The Diocese of St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands did not participate in either the on-site audit or data collection process, thus no information on this location could be included in this report.
The USCCB’s Committee on the Protection of Children and Young People and the National Review Board continue to emphasize that the audit and continued application of zero-tolerance policies are two important tools in the Catholic Church’s broader commitment to create a culture of protection and healing that exceeds the requirements of the Charter This most recent annual report, and all previously published annual reports, may be found on the USCCB Website: https://www.usccb.org/offices/childand-youth-protection/audits. Additional information on diocesan requirements for the protection of children and young people may be found at https://www. usccb.org/about/communications/ bishops-resources/upload/cyp-normsbulletin-insert.pdf. A review of all policies, procedures, and resources related to the Diocese of SpringfieldCape Girardeau may be found at https:// dioscg.org/child-youth-protection/. ©TM
Mercy & Humana open 65 Prime+ clinics
Clinics provide specialized primary care, community services for patients ages 65 and older
Springfield, MO
“How can I become a patient here?” was the question many asked at the June 4 ribbon-cutting of Mercy and Humana’s new 65 Prime+ by Mercy Primary Care clinic in Springfield. It’s easy to understand why.
The new clinic for patients 65 years and older on Medicare provides more than the typical primary care services. Each 65 Prime+ location is designed to serve as a community-gathering place where patients can receive education and support for common health-related questions and topics. The clinics also offer a different model of care than most patients are used to when visiting the doctor:
• Extended visit times, a common request from older patients
• More frequent visits to keep ongoing conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease under control
• Regularly scheduled appointments within a week
• Same-day or next-day appointments for urgent concerns or sudden, severe conditions
As of today, Mercy and Humana have opened two of these clinics in Missouri. The first opened in Springfield, and the second clinic opened June 12 in Nixa.
In January, Mercy announced plans to collaborate with Humana on the new clinics to expand Mercy’s existing 65 Prime+ model. These clinics will be in-network for most Medicare Advantage plans, and they will also accept Original Medicare. The first clinic opened June 6 at 319 E. Battlefield Road in Springfield with a ribbon cutting and blessing by The Very Rev. Patrick Nwokoye, who serves as diocesan liaison for health affairs, and an audience of community members, Mercy caregivers and patients, who were able to meet two of the clinic’s providers.
“It wasn’t a surprise at all to have two patients at the ribboncutting stop and ask us what number they needed to call to become a patient here. That tells us this is a community need, and it feels incredible to see the excitement that’s built up since we announced plans to open clinics that cater to patients 65 and older,” said Lashelle Tipton, Mercy’s director of operations for southwest Missouri senior focus primary care. “We’ve been getting calls and questions from patients almost daily who want to switch their primary care to these new clinics.”
Nixa Clinic
The Nixa clinic, which opened June 12
Increased acceptance of pornography in society renews US bishops’ efforts to support at-risk families
Washington
With pornography continuing to hurt American families at an alarming rate, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) just released the second edition of the bishops’ landmark pastoral response, “Create in Me a Pure Heart.”
“The need for us to help those trapped in this addiction is even more urgent today than it was 10 years ago when the first edition was published,” said Bishop Robert Barron, chairman of the USCCB Committee on Laity, Marriage, Family Life and Youth.
The first edition was originally titled, “Create in Me a Clean Heart.”
“ We hope Create in Me a Pure Heart will renew the commitment to chastity in the life of the Church and society. Polls show the moral
EASE OF ACCESS—With plans to expand around Missouri, Mercy & Humana open 65 Prime+ Clinics to provide specialized primary care, community services for patients ages 65 and older. These clinics will be in-network for most Medicare Advantage plans and also accept original Medicare. A ribbon-cutting and blessing of the 65 Prime+ clinic in Springfield was held June 6. The Nixa clinic opened June 12. (The Mirror)
at 701 N. McCroskey St., features the integration of a community room that will be a common feature with the new clinic model.
“This model is so different than the
traditional doctor’s office. We want these clinics to meet a range of needs we know our older patients have,” Tipton said. “We want to provide primary care, access to education and even community fitness events. We can host chair yoga or a painting class or set up educational seminars about diabetes management or durable power of attorney.”
Mercy and Humana plan to open a third clinic this fall in Springfield with more openings planned around Missouri. Each 65 Prime+ location will care for up to 2,000 new patients at sites that provide convenient access. “You’ll notice that these clinics are located in popular shopping centers where there are restaurants, grocery stores and other services nearby,” Tipton said. “That is intentional. 65 Prime+ clinics are all about ease of access and meeting our patients where they are in the community.”
Now, anytime Tipton’s team gets a call from a patient asking how they can move over to a 65 Prime+ clinic, they will be able to share the good news that they can take care of that today. ©TM
acceptance of pornography has increased significantly in recent years.* This jump underscores the reason we need to address this crisis. We also hope that the document will bring healing to victims and instill in all who hold positions of responsibility the courage to protect the vulnerable,” Bishop Barron continued.
This 10th anniversary edition received a new preface written by the USCCB Committee on Laity, Marriage, Family Life, and Youth, and has been published by Ascension Press. A downloadable version is also available on the USCCB Website at usccb.org/pureheart.
The new preface contains recommendations for various groups, including parents and educators, to safeguard against the ever-increasing reach of hazardous technology. The omnipresence of smart devices has offered some
benefits, but it has had a negative impact on mental health and increased the risk of exposure to pornography, especially among minors. ©TM
*In 2022, 41% of Americans deemed pornography morally acceptable, up from 34% in 2015. Andrew Dugan, “More Americans Say Pornography Is Morally Acceptable,” Gallup, June 5, 2018, https://news.gallup.com/ poll/235280/americans-say-pornographymorally-acceptable.aspx (accessed May 1, 2024). Megan Brenan, “Americans Say Birth Control, Divorce Most ‘Morally Acceptable’,” Gallup, June 9, 2022, https://news.gallup.com/ poll/393515/americans-say-birth-controldivorce-morally-acceptable.aspx (accessed May 1, 2024).
JUBILEE YEAR OF HOPE PILGRIMS VISIT CATHEDRAL HOLY DOOR
JUBILEE YEAR OF HOPE—Bishop Edward Rice greeted Jubilee Year of Hope pilgrims from Holy Trinity Parish, Marshfield, who attended Mass on Monday, June 16, in St. Agnes Cathedral, a Holy Door for the Jubilee Year of Hope.
(Photo by Sarah Pittman/The Mirror)
THE ENDURING IMPORTANCE of ST. BENEDICT
By Fr. Ed Dougherty, MM
On July 11, the Church celebrates the Memorial of Saint Benedict of Nursia, the father of Western monasticism. He wrote his rulebook for monastic life around 530, and it emerged as a model for religious communities throughout the Middle Ages. It has come to be known as the Rule of St. Benedict and remains an essential guide for the structure of Catholics living in community to this day.
“Ora et labora” or “pray and work” is the axiom at the heart of Benedict’s rule. It points to the necessity we all have to commune with God and live productive lives. But arriving at this starting point was far from simple in Benedict’s time.
Born into a noble family in Nursia, Italy, Benedict was sent to Rome as a young man to finish his education but was disappointed to find a preoccupation among his educators with the cultivation of rhetorical skills devoid of any focus on God. So he left Rome to pursue a life of holiness and was drawn to live for a time in solitude under the direction of a hermit named Romanus. Other monks eventually sought out Benedict’s leadership, and though he faced early conflicts in his attempts to build religious communities, he succeeded at Monte Cassino, where he founded the monastery that would form the roots of the Church’s monastic tradition.
FIRST VOWS FOR CONGREGATION OF MARY, QUEEN OF HEAVEN—Sr. Elizabeth Kim Hoa Nguyen, CMR, and Sr. Zoey Thu Thuy Phan, CMR, took their first vows during a liturgy celebrated June 7 with The Most Rev. Edward M. Rice, and other members of their religious community, including Sr. Julie Kim Hoa Pham, CMR, who celebrated a renewal of her vows during the same liturgy. Looking on is The Most Rev. John J. Leibrecht (back) and (foreground) The Very Rev. Lewis Hejna, rector of St. Agnes Cathedral, Springfield, who helped served the Mass. (Photo courtesy Cộng Đoan CG Springfield [Đức Mẹ lên Trời])
Though Benedict shunned the trend toward vanity in Roman education of the time, he never lost sight of the importance of cultivating personal talents. He merely sought to direct those talents towards God. In the counsel he gave to his community, he said, “Let us consider our place in sight of God and of His angels. Let us rise in chanting that our hearts and voices harmonize.”
Though Benedict’s rules are known for being strict, they are intended for those who freely choose the challenging path he lays out and are aimed at cultivating a loving environment where all members of the community can thrive and grow in their devotion to God. In Chapter IV of his rule, Benedict provides instruction on personal discipline but also on love of neighbor, extolling his community “to relieve the poor; to clothe the naked; to visit the sick; to bury the dead; to help in tribulation; to console the sorrowing.” He ends this section by instructing, “And never to despair of the mercy of God.”
During a time when the Roman empire was crumbling and lawlessness threatened towns and cities across Europe, Benedict’s rule became a guide for those determined to live in love and
harmony with one another. The monasteries of the Middle Ages that were inspired by his rule are now credited with preserving knowledge that would have otherwise been lost—and with cultivating a way of life that became a seed for Christianity to flourish.
In 1964, then-Pope (now-St.) Paul VI declared St. Benedict Patron of Europe, calling him, “Messenger of peace, molder of union, magister of civilization, and above all herald of the religion of Christ and founder of monastic life in the West.” And regarding the enduring importance of Benedict’s rule in cultivating a civil society, Pope Benedict XVI said, “In seeking true progress, let us also listen to the Rule of St. Benedict as a guiding light on our journey.”
Let us pray that St. Benedict of Nursia intercedes for our religious communities around the world to be the seed once again for a revival of culture, love of neighbor, and faith in Christ. ©TM
For free copies of the Christopher News Note RESPECT THOSE WHO LABOR AMONG YOU, write: The Christophers, 264 West 40th Street, Room 603, New York, NY 10018; or Email: mail@christophers.org.
E
ucharistic Adoration is all about placing ourselves before our Lord, who is truly and sacramentally present to us in the Eucharist exposed on the altar in the monstrance. Eucharistic Adoration is about listening to His heart from your heart, about His love and joy for you, His plans and inspirations, His forgiveness and ministry, and His ways of helping you grow in your spiritual life, and service of others. Jesus present in the Monstrance (from the Latin word—monstrare, which means to show, which is the root for—demonstrate) enables us to fix our gaze on him for the reparation for sins; the intercession for healing of the world, among other needs or sources of gratitude.
Perpetual Adoration
(24 hours a day, seven days a week)
is held in two places in the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau. Please come and spend time in either of these locations:
Perpetual Adoration at Saint Francis Medical Center, Cape Girardeau Call Donna (573) 450-1451
Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration at Holy Trinity Church, Springfield Call Marilyn (417) 224-4043
St. Benedict of Nursia intercedes for religious communities around the world. His Memorial is celebrated July 11.
• Bottled Water
• Copy paper 8.5 x 11 or 11 x 17
• Toilet paper
• Rolls of paper towels
• Paper bowls
• Paper plates
• Solo cups
• Plastic forks
• Powdered creamers
• Individual packaged snack items such as chips, cookies, breakfast bars, crackers
• Trash Bags: 13 gallon 55 gallon drum liners, 8 gallon trash bags
• Paper clips, file folders, post it notes
• Kleenex
• Giftcards
• Money is always appreciated.
• Powdered lemonade and drink mix
First and foremost please keep our students in prayer....for many it is their first time away from home.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED LOVE AND SUPPORT FOR OUR MINISTRY.
If you have questions, please call Bev Franklin (417) 865-0802
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 SpringfieldCape Girardeau Child and Youth Protection Webpage: www.dioscg.org/child-youth-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
