Pope Leo calls Archbishop Fulton Sheen ‘a
light of faith’ who touched millions with the Gospel
By Courtney Mares
PVatican City
ope Leo XIV praised Venerable Fulton J. Sheen on June 1 as “a light of faith, hope, and love” whose radio and television broadcasts brought the Gospel to millions of Americans— including the pope himself as a child.
Speaking at a Vatican audience with members of the Pontifical Mission Societies, the pope called it providential that the beloved archbishop will be beatified during the centennial year of the Pontifical Mission Societies he once led as the national director of the US Society for the Propagation of the Faith.
“Archbishop Sheen was a light of faith, hope, and love that shone through the radio and television media for decades,” Pope Leo said.
“I myself am a witness of his evangelization when I was growing up,” the pope added. “His broadcasts touched millions with the hope of the Gospel and his initiatives and efforts resulted in enormous spiritual and material aid to the Churches in areas of first evangelization.”
The beatification of Archbishop Sheen is scheduled for Sept. 24 in St. Louis. His beatification had previously been postponed by the Vatican in 2019. Archbishop Sheen was declared venerable in 2012. Beatification is the final step before canonization; Archbishop Sheen will require one more miracle attributed to his intercession to be declared a saint.
“May our new Blessed be an example for all of the National and Diocesan Directors of the Pontifical Mission Societies throughout the world,” the pope said.
Pope Leo, 70, has said that he watched Archbishop Sheen’s television program
Peoria,
IL
Tas a child. The American pope was elected last year on Archbishop Sheen’s birthday.
CATHOLIC VOICE OF AMERICA
Born in El Paso, IL, on May 8, 1895, Venerable Sheen was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Peoria on Sept. 20, 1919. He went on to become one of the most recognized Catholic voices in American history, rising to national prominence during the 1930s and 1940s as host of “The Catholic Hour” on NBC radio.
Beginning in 1952, then-Bishop Sheen reached tens of millions of viewers each Tuesday evening through his television program “Life Is Worth Living.” Armed with little more than his intellect, charisma, a cape and a chalkboard, he won an Emmy Award for best television personality after his first season, famously thanking his writers: “Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.”
innovative evangelists in American history. On March 25, 2026, the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints announced the beatification of Archbishop Sheen will take place on Sept. 24 in St. Louis. Tickets are available and going fast!
Throughout his 60-year priesthood, Bishop Sheen sought to conform himself more closely to Christ by observing a daily Eucharistic Holy Hour, what he called “the hour that makes my day.”
He also was intensely devoted to the Mother of God.
For 16 years, Archbishop Sheen served as the national director of the Society for the Propagation of the Faith, one of the four Pontifical Mission Societies, during which he sought to form American Catholics in missionary spirituality and identity and help raise funds to spread the faith and build the Church across the globe.
GENEROUS MISSIONARY
According to Msgr. Roger J. Landry, the current national director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in the US, Archbishop Sheen donated more than $10 million of his media earnings to the missions during his lifetime, raised $200 million for missionary work (the equivalent of nearly $2.1 billion today), and left 40% of his estate along with book royalties to the ongoing work of evangelization.
“It would be almost impossible to enumerate the churches, schools, seminaries, convents, and monasteries that exist today because of his work, not to
BEATIFICATION OF ARCHBISHOP FULTON J. SHEEN
ickets to the September Sept. 24, 2026, beatification of Venerable Fulton J. Sheen at The Dome at America’s Center, in St. Louis, are quickly being snapped up. Bishop Louis Tylka—whose Diocese of Peoria, IL, has oversight of Archbishop Sheen’s sainthood cause— explained that The Dome, located in the Archdiocese of St. Louis, was chosen for the beatification to enable as many of the faithful to share in the occasion. “We could have done this event in our cathedral, where there would have been 800 people,” said the bishop. “But we’re trying to maximize people’s participation.” Bishop Tylka stressed that the
ticketing fees were not equivalent to “paying” to attend a liturgy, a practice strictly forbidden by canon law. Rather, the tickets reflect the practical realities of hosting a major event—and those are “just not free,” he said.” ©OSVNews
Tickets for the Beatification Mass are selling fast! Limit of 10 tickets per person. If you are interested in puchasing tickets, SCAN THE QR CODE or go to www.celebratesheen.com. If you have parishioners that have purchased tickets and are interested in bus transportation, please reach out to Lynn Melendez, at lmelendez@dioscg.org. If there is enough interest, the diocese will coordinate bus transportation to St. Louis, MO.
DIOCESE OF SPRINGFIELD—CAPE GIRARDEAU, MISSOURI
VENERABLE FULTON J. SHEEN Venerable Fulton J. Sheen is remembered as one of the most influential and
(OSV News file photo)
OAND YOU WILL SEE
Bp. Edward M. Rice
The Eucharist anchors us to Christ & to one another COME,
n July 15, 2026, I held the final Deanery Holy Hour at Holy Trinity, Aurora, MO, in spiritual preparation for our upcoming Diocesan Eucharistic Congress (DEC). Beginning in January, in each diocesan deanery, people gathered to pray for the success of our DEC, the first-ever for our diocese, to be held on August 15, in West Plains, MO at the Civic Center, marking our 70th anniversary as a diocese. I hope this Diocesan Eucharistic Congress will bring together parishioners from throughout the diocese to celebrate our 70th anniversary and our unity in the Eucharist. Have you taken advantage of the monthly resources? It’s not too late to benefit from these and they can be found on the diocesan Website.
is God with us. Seek Him without tiring, welcome Him without reserve, love Him without interruption: today, tomorrow, forever” (Pope St. John Paul II).
I would like to share the homily I offered at each of the seven Deanery holy hours:
“The Eucharist is the secret of my day. It gives strength and meaning to all my activities of service to the Church and to the whole world. Let Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament speak to your hearts. It is He who is the true answer of life that you seek. He stays here with us: He
Those words from Pope John Paul offer insight for us as a diocese on how to move forward after our 70th anniversary. We are using these months before the DEC to prepare for our Eucharistic Congress, and once it’s over, hopefully it’s not over, if we all embrace the Eucharist as the secret, the foundation, the source of strength for all the many works of the diocese and all we strive to accomplish. Over the past 70 years, there has been a tsunami of change in our culture, all affecting the Church and her people. But what is it that anchors us? The Eucharist and devotion to the Blessed Mother. Can it be that simple? Yes, I believe it can be. Note that I did not say it would be “easy.” Living the faith these days is not easy but sometimes we complicate things too much. In one of his books, Matthew Kelly wrote, “It’s time to stop searching for worldly solutions to spiritual problems.” Again, the solution is simple: the Eucharist and the Blessed Mother. The purpose of Mass is to unite
ourselves to the offering of Christ to the Father: each one of us lifting our hearts in union with the heart of Christ at the offertory of the Mass, hearts full of joy or sorrow, hearts filled with peace or anxiety, yet hearts united to Jesus in a beautiful offering to the Father. In Eucharistic Adoration, we are invited to linger, recognize this mutual presence, a sacred time for personal prayer of adoration, contrition, thanksgiving, and supplication. In many respects, Adoration is an extension of the Mass, allowing for deeper reflection and spiritual nourishment.”
To quote the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 1370), “In the Eucharist the Church is as it were at the foot of the cross with Mary, united with the offering and intercession of Christ.”
The offering of Jesus to the Father at the altar, and the offering of Jesus with Mary at the foot of the Cross, are mystically united.
“St. Alphonsus Liguori said, “Of all devotions, that of adoring Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament is the greatest after the sacraments, the one dearest to God and the one most helpful to us.” In the Mass and in Adoration, along with our love of Our Lady, we have all we need to face the challenges of our day and move forward toward our 75th anniversary in 2031.
As of this writing, there are over
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.
September 1, 1995 In her note home to parents the first day of school, a teacher included, “If you promise not to believe everything your child says happens at school, I’ll promise not to believe everything your child says happens at home.”
September 8, 1995 The choir director failed to realize why the congregation was laughing. He had just announced, “Our soloist will sing ‘I’m Going to Heaven Today’ and the choir will follow with
‘Oh Happy Day, Oh Happy Day!”
September 15, 1995 She asked her grandson, “When people give you money, do you save it?” He replied, “Well, I spend some and save some.” The grandmother asked, “And how much money have you saved?” The boy replied, “I’m not sure because I haven’t shaken it lately.”
AUG. 15, 2026 WEST PLAINS CIVIC CENTER
THERE’S STILL TIME: Register today!
2,500 people registered for the Diocesan Eucharistic Congress—space is still available but registration closes JULY 31, unless we fill the civic center before then. Check the Diocesan Website for information or to register Online.. O Sacrament Most Holy, O Sacrament Divine, all praise and all thanksgiving be every moment Thine. ©TM
By Bishop Emeritus John J. Leibrecht
A column by Fr. DanielBelken
Daniel Dunn: MEET OUR SEMINARIANS
From everyday work to extraordinary calling
Meet Seminarian Daniel Dunn, recently graduated from Sacred Heart School of Theology, Hales Corners, WI, with a M.Div degree and serving this summer in St. Cecilia Parish, Kennett, and St. Eustachius Parish, in Portageville.
Dunn’s road to the seminary included a wide range of life experiences.
A middle child, he was raised Catholic in Leopold, MO, graduated from Southeast Missouri State University in 3D Digital Animation, and has worked in fast food, hospitality, and even as an automotive technician before discerning a call to the priesthood.
Knights of Columbus Catholic Man Night, which includes Eucharistic adoration, confession, and talks; I was offering up my usual morning prayer, that ended in my asking for help to find a wife,” said Dunn.
SEMINARY GRADUATE Pictured with his parents, diocesan seminarian Daniel Dunn recently graduated from Sacred Heart School of Theology in Wisconsin with a M.Div degree. He’s serving this summer with Fr. David Baunach in Kennett and Portageville (The Mirror)
“I think those experiences helped shape me,” Dunn said, reflecting on the years before seminary. “They grounded me and gave me a deeper appreciation for serving others.”
He is a St. Louis Cardinals fan who enjoys pizza and sewing (he creates travel pillows and can alter or repair clerical garments). His hobbies include reading, travel, “tinkering” with his hands, technology, and discussions on philosophy or pop culture. His favorite bands are Queen, Journey, and Alan Jackson. His favorite books of the bible are Isaiah, the Gospels of John and Luke, and the Pauline Letters. Favorite Saint?
“St. Jude. If it weren’t for his intercession, I wouldn’t have been able to hear the Lord’s call,” Dunn said.
And his favorite prayers are The Lord’s Prayer followed by St. Michael’s Prayer.
When asked about a priest or religious person who has inspired him, Dunn shared, “Fr. Randy Tochtrop was the local pastor in Chaffee while I was living there. He had very good homilies, and a few of them helped me to recognize that the grip on my spiritual rudder wasn’t as strong as I thought it was. He helped guide me back to safer waters, where Fr. David Coon helped by taking over as my Spiritual Director.”
A simple but powerful moment changed everything and inspired his discernment and call to priesthood.
“On a February morning following a
ABBOT PAUL SHELLER, OSB, Elected as 11th Abbot of Conception Abbey
Conception, MO
The Benedictine monks of Conception Abbey, in Conception, MO, recently elected Fr. Paul Sheller, OSB, as their new abbot. He becomes the 11th abbot in Conception Abbey’s 153-year history, succeeding Abbot Benedict Neenan, OSB, who has retired after 10 years of abbatial service.
“This particular morning, I felt a stirring in my heart and changed that last prayer. ‘Lord, if you want me to be a servant to you, please give me a sign and let me know.’ A few minutes later, as I was walking out to my car, someone pulled up and rolled down the window.
My pastor, Fr. Randy Tochtrop stuck his head out of the window and said, ‘Hey Dan, do you want to go to the seminary?’”
Most recently gaining experience in liturgical leadership and serving in the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist in Milwaukee, Dunn looks forward to working with Fr. David Baunach to “improve his prayer life in moving from obedience to relationship with the Lord.”
He is very grateful for the support of the faithful of the diocese.
“Thank you all for your prayers and your support. Your prayers help get tests passed, papers completed and help us to understand what our formators are trying to teach us,” Dunn said. “They lift us up when the enemy is trying to kick us down. They give us strength when we’re low on sleep and the coffee has run dry. They’re a healing balm in our hearts when we have a night of tears and cries in the chapel. Your prayers remind me that I’m not alone, even when all of my brothers were ordained or discerned out. Your support provides for our daily needs, from clothing and medicine to car repairs, liturgical supplies, tech maintenance... and every now and then, a pizza when the cafeteria serves the same meal for the third night in a row.”
Given the opportunity to bring a soul to Christ, his message to them is simple and heartfelt: “Welcome home.”
For anyone discerning a religious vocation, Dunn advised, “Call your pastor about spiritual direction. Even Samuel needed Eli to help him respond to the call of the Lord.” ©TM
The election of Abbot Sheller took place within a private meeting of the monks of Conception Abbey on Sat., July 11. Before the election, the monks of Conception Abbey gathered in the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception to celebrate the Mass of the Holy Spirit, invoking it for wisdom and guidance in the election process. The Right Rev. Justin Brown, OSB, president of the Swiss-American Congregation of the Benedictine Confederation, was the principal celebrant for the Mass and oversaw the election.
The new abbot assumes his responsibilities as the spiritual and temporal leader of the community immediately; as is custom, a formal blessing will take place at a later date.
Abbot Sheller, 44, was most recently assigned as Director of the Abbey Guest Center in 2024, in addition to his roles as Vocation Director and Master of Ceremonies.
A native of Stillwater, OK, Abbot Sheller professed vows as a Benedictine monk on Aug. 15, 2006, and was ordained a priest on May 16, 2013. He received a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from Conception Seminary College in 2005 and a Master of Divinity and a Master of Arts in Systematic Theology from St. Vincent Seminary in 2013. He later earned a Master of Arts in Christian Spirituality from Creighton University in 2020.
Since joining the monastery, Abbot Sheller has served in various roles, including Abbey Subprior; Admissions director, Spiritual Formation director, chaplain, and instructor for Conception Seminary College; Planned Giving director; Tower Topics editor; and most recently Abbey Guest Center director, Vocation director, and Master of Ceremonies.
Founded in 1873 from a monastery in Engelberg, Switzerland, Conception Abbey strives to continue its mission of prayer and service to the Church. The 51 monks of Conception Abbey operate Conception Seminary College, which educates future priests and permanent deacons, the Abbey Guest Center, and Altar + Home, a retail ministry for the domestic church.
We ask for your prayers for Abbot Paul Sheller, OSB, and the monastic community! ©TM
continued from Page 1
mention the amount of dioceses sustained and programs underwritten because of his efforts,” Msgr. Landry said.
Archbishop Sheen died Dec. 9, 1979, in New York City, in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament, after nearly two years of declining health following open-heart surgery.
During the audience with the Pontifical Mission Societies, Pope Leo called 2026 “a year truly rich in missionary milestones,” noting that this year also marks the 100th anniversary of World Mission Sunday, established by Pope Pius XI at the request of the Pontifical Society for the Propagation of the Faith.
This year’s World Mission Sunday falls on Oct. 18, under the theme “One in Christ, united in mission.”
“In a world increasingly marked by division, war and conflict among nations and peoples, the four Pontifical Mission Societies … render an invaluable service to the Church’s mission of proclaiming Christ, the Prince of Peace and the incarnate revelation of Divine Love for humanity,” Pope Leo said.
“Let us therefore continue our missionary journey with joy and renewed zeal,” he said.
“In all that we do for the work of evangelization, may we always place Jesus Christ at the center, embracing the beautiful Gospel principle expressed by John the Baptist: ‘He must increase, but I must decrease.’” ©OSVNews
Courtney Mares is Vatican editor for OSV News. Follow her on X @ catholicourtney.
ARCHBISHOP FULTON J. SHEEN
Abbot Paul Sheller, OSB
ALEX MEURY JOINS OZARK PARISH
By Paula Wright Ozark, MO
Alex Meury joined the Catholic Church as a catechumen/ Elect in St. Joseph the Worker Parish, Ozark. He is married to his wife, Jordyn, and together they have two children. (And, at the time of this interview, they were about to welcome their third child). Meury is a Captain in the Army National Guard filling a dual role as a full-time operations officer and also as a helicopter pilot for his unit. Most of his time is dedicated to his wife and children, but he recently got back into Brazilian jiu-jitsu along with his daughter.
What drew you to the Catholic Church?
My wife and I married in 2019, and I went to church with her. I never gave it any thought; I was there to support her. My wife is a “Cradle Catholic” and my children were baptized Catholic. I never grew up in a religious household, I wouldn’t have called myself an atheist, but I just didn’t believe. And so, as I have had kids and I’ve gotten older, I would say that my heart softened up to the idea. I also think my social media algorithm, if I’m completely honest, started getting to be more religious. I wouldn’t say that drove me to join the Church, but it was there confirming faith. If I had questions or if I saw a video on YouTube, it often answered a question that I had that might have been holding me up or it might have been like a hurdle that I had to get over. But I just felt a part of me hadn’t been fulfilled, and I’ve had a great life, a great job, I have a great family, but there was a part that I felt I was missing something. And, you know, the chaos of the world, you kind of look around and you’re like, ‘what is the one thing that could bring meaning to whatever’s going on?’ And all the arrows kept pointing to Jesus, to God. And then the events
in September, the whole thing that happened with Charlie Kirk. The brutality of what I saw. I left work and I felt, well, the only way I can describe it would be the Holy Spirit became like a fire within me, at the inhumanity that I had seen. At that point, it became very clear that all the things we worry about in life; it’s really about good vs. evil. The Church is where the good news is. And so that was like the proverbial nail for me. I was fully committed at that point, two months into the OCIA program, already on the path. There was no going back.
Were there any preconceived ideas you may have had about the Catholic faith prior to your participation?
Were these confirmed or repudiated? I don’t think I had any preconceived notions. Because I had never grown up anywhere close to religion other than going to Mass with my wife. But even then, I didn’t think anything of it. I just thought the Catholic Church was another denomination.
What did you enjoy most about your journey into full membership within the Catholic Church?
have to understand what they mean.
What did you find most challenging?
I enjoyed the fact that the OCIA program is built in a way where you don’t have to prove yourself necessarily, but you have to work for it. I value working hard and earning things based on how hard you work. I think there’s an old adage, “luck is like the crossroads of preparation and opportunity.” OCIA prepared me for baptism, for confirmation, and for the sacrament of the Eucharist. It forces you to develop an understanding because it is a higher form of worship than just going to a normal church and singing and then you know, going home. The sacraments mean a lot. Therefore, you
I think it is the other side of the coin that I was talking about earlier. Just the length of it. I think I was about halfway through before I fully understood what the Eucharist meant. I think that was the hard part, wanting to receive the Eucharist sooner. But for me, I relate it back to some things I’ve done in the military. Earning my commission as an officer was a year-and-a-half long, and it was hard. All the good things in life are things you have to put in time and effort into.
How well do you think the Church welcomes seekers to the faith?
I can really only speak for my parish, but it’s been nothing but great the whole time. I think they welcome people.
What was most memorable about your confirmation and baptism?
I think being there with my wife, the journey that we’ve been on, and I think the (Easter) vigil itself was really beautiful. From a spiritual aspect, just being reborn again. Through all I’ve gone through in my life, to have that old part of me die and be born again in Jesus and just knowing and feeling that.
What do you find is the biggest ‘treasure’ of the faith?
Well, the history of it, how you can trace it back. It was the Church that Jesus founded. The history is
so authentic and robust.
I think some people within the Church take that for granted, but other people that are outside and other denominations don’t weigh that as much as they should. There’s so much to learn, it is so deep. There probably isn’t a topic the Church hasn’t addressed. If you fully lay into what the Church gives, then you just have the foundation to navigate life. It’s so good.
Any other thoughts you would like to share? I will share the analogy I shared with my OCIA class. For me, not being baptized my whole life was like you live in a neighborhood and there’s a really nice house on the corner. It has tall fences. You’re afraid of the owners because you don’t know them, you don’t ever see them. And you’re off running around doing your own thing. One day you get enough courage to hop the fence to look into the home. But you get stuck on the fence. Because it’s really tall, you can’t get down. And for me, prior to joining the Catholic Church, that’s where I was, on top of the fence. But when you get into the backyard, you realize it is an infinite yard. i.e. with confirmation and baptism and the Eucharist, it feels like heaven in a way. That was the analogy that I shared because I was asked how the past nine months felt. The week after my baptism and confirmation, I had such a feeling of peace. I’m just grateful for the opportunity to partake in all the sacraments and just a culmination of everything, it felt great. ©TM
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 continues to increase, growing from a total of 251 new Catholics in 2023 to a total of 519 who joined the Church in 2026. Within the next few issues of The Mirror, we look forward to sharing stories from some of the diocese’s newest Catholics.
The Meury Familiy (The Mirror)
Cape Girardeau—Renew, Refresh, and Reignite your Marriage. Schedule a weekend to renew your Sacrament, deepen your communication, strengthen your relationship, and rekindle your romance by attending a Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekend: July 31-Aug. 2, Drury Plaza Hotel & Conference Center, Cape Girardeau. For more information, visit https://wwme.org/.
Cape Girardeau— Save the date for the 2026 LifeHouse Gala: Stetsons & Stilettos on Sat., Nov. 7! Join CCSOMO at Drury Plaza Hotel & Conference Center, for an evening of dinner, live entertainment & so much more! All proceeds directly support the impactful work of LifeHouse in Cape Girardeau, helping mothers and babies in need. There are many ways to get involved—For additional information, go to: https://ccsomo.org/ get-involved-events/.
Cape Girardeau—All are invited to a two-day conference where participants will rediscover the human person through the teachings of Pope St. John Paul II. Theology of the Body Conference will be held at the St. John Henry Newman Center, CCM on the campus of Southeast Missouri State University, Sept. 12-13. Opportunities for prayer, fellowship, and presentations on topics such as “An Intro to Theology of the Body,” “Made for Love,” and “The Grace of Unitive Love,” will be included. Register early to receive a discounted fee. Early-bird pricing of $30 per person ends Sat., Aug. 15. After that date, the cost will be $50 per person. For more information, go to https:// tobeducators.com/
Glennonville—The 118th annual Glennonville Picnic will be held Sat., July 25, at Glennonville Park, located at 12936 County Road 116, Campbell, MO. Beauty Pageant-starting at 9am in the Parish Center| Chicken Dinner-serving 11am-2pm, in the KofC Hall | Horseshoe Tournament, Pedal Tractor Races, Game Stands, Basket Stands, Grab Bags, Old Fashioned Picnic Races, Soda, Sandwich & Ice Cream Stands, and so much more!
Lebanon—St. Frances de Sales Catholic Church will have its annual Rummage Sale, Fri., Sept. 4, 7am-1pm and Sat., Sept. 5, 7am-12pm. Housewares, collectables, toys, books, records, jewelry, Christmas décor, and much more!
Leopold—St. John Catholic Church will hold its 132nd annual Leopold Picnic, Sat., July 25. Gift Shoppe |Fish Pond | Homemade Ice Cream | Games, Food & Fun! Old Fashioned Country Dinner-served 3-7pm. | Church Tours, 4-6pm.| LIVE MUSIC! Whitewater Bluegrass Band, 3-6pm; Savage Groove, 7-11:30pm.
Pemiscot County— Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a missionary? Have you ever felt a twinge now and then to serve the poor? The Glenmary Sisters invite you to join them for a Women’s Mission Trip, Oct. 11-16, in Pemiscot County. You will spend time helping at Mother’s House, our Outreach Center for mothers and children. You will be doing various projects in the community, helping
whomever God places in our midst during the week, and serving one another. Space is limited, to register, or for more information, contact Barbara O’Nan at (706) 414-2982 or barbara@glenmarysisters.org. Application deadline: Aug. 15, 2026. Visit us at https:// glenmarysisters.org/.
Scott City—St. Augustine & St. Joseph parishes will host Vacation Bible School, July 27-30, 6-8:30pm at St. Joseph Catholic School for Pre-K-4th grade. Cost is $10 per child and will be collected on the first night. Fifth-12th graders and adults are encouraged to volunteer. Register at: https://stjosephsc. org/vbs2026.
Scott City—St. Joseph Parish will hold its annual Rummage Sale, Thu., Aug. 20; Fri., Aug. 21, and Sat., Aug. 22, in the Knights of Columbus Hall (lower level) in Scott City. Doors open at 7am and will close at 6pm on Thursday & Friday, and 12-Noon on Saturday. Furniture, appliances, plants, jewelry, toys, bikes, shoes, lots of clothing, and much more!
Springfield—Help the Catholic Campus Ministry, O’Reilly Catholic Student Center prepare for the upcoming school year by donating any of the following items: trash bags: 55 | 13 | 4 gallon, paper towels, toilet paper, solo cups, individually packaged snack items, gift cards, or monetary donations. Drop off donations M-Th mornings, or Sundays at CCM, 847 S Holland Ave. Thank you in advance for your continued dedication and support!
Springfield—Vitae Foundation will hold its Springfield Pro-Life Dinner, Fri., Aug. 21, 6-9pm at Bass Pro Shops’ White River Conference Center. Keynote is Riley Gaines, NCAA swimmer & Advocate for Women. Social & Registration: 6pm; Dinner & program: 7pm. Cost is $75 per person. All proceeds will benefit Vitae Foundation. Register at vitaefoundation.org/events or call (753) 634-4316.
Springfield—St. Elizabeth Ann Seton will hold its annual Fall Bazaar, Sat., Nov. 7, 9am-6 pm & Sun., Nov. 8, 8am-2pm. Embroidery, knitted and crocheted items, quilts, purses, painted items, seasonal items, floral, wood craft, candles, decor, toys, novelty items and many more. Bake sale and lunch items will be available for purchase. Proceeds support seminarians, LifeHouse, Mother’s House in the Haiti area, Blue Nuns, VBS, and other needs that arise in the parish.
Springfield— Mark your calendars for the 2026 LifeHouse Gala: Moonlight Masquerade on Sat., Sept. 9! Join CCSOMO in the White River Conference Center for an enchanting evening featuring fine food, exciting auctions, and live entertainment by Twice on Sunday. Doors open at 5:30pm. Dinner & program begin at 7pm. All proceeds directly support the impactful work of LifeHouse in Springfield, helping mothers and babies in need. There are many ways to get involved—For additional information, go to: https://ccsomo.org/get-involved-events/. Parishes and organizations are invited to submit notices of future events to be printed on a space-available basis. There is no fee.
FIRST FRIDAY MASS for VOCATIONS
Bishop 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., Aug. 7 St. Agnes Cathedral, Springfield 5:30 p.m. Fri., Sept. 4 St. Agnes Cathedral, Springfield 5:30 p.m.
DURING THIS EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL, FR. DAVID COON OFFERS THE FOLLOWING QUOTE FOR THE REFLECTION ON THE EUCHARIST:
“Priest of Jesus Christ, celebrate this Holy Mass as if it were your first Mass, your last Mass, your only Mass.” —33 DAYS TO EUCHARISTIC GLORY BY MATTHEW KELLY
Father Coon is Pastor of Sacred Heart Parish, Dexter. He is also Priest Minister for the Confraternity of Priest Adorers of the Eucharistic Face of Jesus.
(Front) Howard Mohn, Holy Trinity Parish, Marshfield; James Haston, St. Lawrence Parish, Monett; Steven Reddin, Sacred Heart Parish, Webb City; (back) Kevin Haverly, SS Peter & Paul Parish, Pulaskifield; and Mike Wilson, Sacred Heart Parish, Webb City.
WE HOLD THESE TRUTHS
CELEBRATING CATHOLIC CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ON THE SEMIQUINCENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY
As the United States of America commemorates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, the USCCB joins this celebration by lifting up the contributions of Catholics and the impact of our faith on the history of this country.
Meet the first American bishop
By D.D. Emmons OSV News
Who is Bishop John Carroll? We may not hear much about him today, but he was the first bishop of the United States, the father of American Catholicism, and a highly-regarded patriot of the American Revolution. Father Carroll has been credited with influencing the words of the First Amendment to the US Constitution: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.”
Because of his skills in planning and organizing the Church in America, some Church historians have given him the title “Spiritual Hannibal.” He was instrumental in establishing Catholic schools such as Georgetown University and St. Mary’s Seminary in Maryland, and he encouraged St. Elizabeth Ann Seton to begin the Sisters of Charity in Emmitsburg, MD.
But these achievements only begin to tell the story of this man, singled out by God to further the Gospel in the new frontiers of America.
Beginnings
Born in Upper Marlboro, MD, in 1735, at age 13 Carroll was sent to Europe for Catholic schooling because, at that time, Catholic schools or teachings did not exist, nor were permitted, in the 13 colonies. In 1761, he was ordained a Catholic priest of the Jesuit order.
Within the next four years, the Jesuits were suspended by Pope Clement XIV, and Carroll returned to Maryland, where he found extreme anti-Catholic sentiment prevailing throughout much of the colonies. Many colonies did not allow public Masses, prohibited Catholics from holding governmental office, and mocked Catholic beliefs. Around 16,000 people were Catholics, less than 2% of the total population.
The same year that Fr. Carroll returned from Europe, the British Parliament, under the rule of King George III, passed the Quebec Act, which approved the practice of Catholicism in Canada. This British effort was designed to ensure the alliance of the French Canadians in the event of a conflict with the colonies. The majority of colonists wanted nothing to do with this act or King George. The threat of the king extending the Quebec
Act to the colonies was among the factors that caused the Americans to break from England. They proclaimed: “No King, No Papacy.”
This was the environment in which Fr. John Carroll found himself during the late 1700s. Despite the condemnation of his faith, he was able to hold American Catholics together and, at the same time, find ways to support the cause of the colonies. He was successful both in being true to Rome and to the land he loved.
Father Carroll was from a well-off and influential Catholic family; his cousin, Charles, was a signatory to the Declaration of Independence. John Carroll became widely-known and was well-respected before and after the American Revolution.
In February 1776, the Continental Congress wanted the Canadians to ally themselves with the Americans in the forthcoming war against England. A small group of men was dispatched to encourage the Canadians; this group was led by Benjamin Franklin and included Father John Carroll.
ARCHBISHOP JOHN CARROLL Baltimore Archbishop John Carroll seen in a painting by Gilbert Stuart. In 1789, Pope Pius VI (r. 1775-99) took the unprecedented step of asking the United States priests to elect their own bishop. Twenty-four of 26 priests selected Fr. Carroll, and on Nov. 6, 1789, Pope Pius elevated him to bishop. On that same date, the pope established the Diocese of Baltimore, the only diocese in America and one that covered more than 3 million square miles with upward of 40,000 Catholics.
(OSV News photo/courtesy of Georgetown University Library, Special Collections Research Center)
The mission was not a success, but Fr. Carroll and Franklin became wellacquainted and their relationship would later lead to Franklin recommending the priest as the head of the Catholic Church in America, a recommendation he made to the papal nuncio of France.
A ‘Founding Father’
From the early founding of America, Catholic missions in the new land were under the jurisdiction of the Vatican Congregation Propaganda Fide (now the part of the Dicastery for Evangelization) and overseen by the vicar apostolic in London. Following the Revolutionary War and appealing to the pope, the colonial mission became independent from the London vicar apostolic and, in 1784, Fr. Carroll was named superior of the Mission in the Thirteen United States of America with the power of confirmation. He was responsible for some 25,000 geographically-separated Catholics.
Gaining independence from England, the new nation began to expand, especially to the West, and there was the need for additional Catholic parishes and priests. This expansion
thrived during the French Revolution (1787-99), as many priests left France for America and would help fill the need for priests in the new settlements.
In 1789, the Catholic clergy asked the US Congress if they would object to a Catholic bishop in the new republic. Receiving no objection, the clergy petitioned the pope for such action.
Pope Pius VI (r. 1775-99) took the unprecedented step of asking the United States priests to elect their own bishop. Twenty-four of 26 priests selected Fr. Carroll, and on Nov. 6, 1789, Pope Pius elevated him to bishop. On that same date, the pope established the Diocese of Baltimore, the only diocese in America and one that covered more than 3 million square miles with upward of 40,000 Catholics.
Bishop Carroll was consecrated in 1790, and 18 years later he became the first archbishop in America. By the time he became archbishop, there were four more dioceses: Philadelphia; Boston; Bardstown, Kentucky; and New York, all organized under the Archdiocese of Baltimore.
Under Bishop Carroll’s auspices, St. Mary’s Seminary in Baltimore began training priests in 1791 with the first ordination two years later. Priests from
outside the United States, and guided by Bishop Carroll, would continue to spread the Gospel and act as both missionaries and pastors in the following century and beyond.
Bishop Carroll, possessing the inspired gifts of wisdom and vision, was able to harmonize the different ethnicities populating the United States, including Dutch, Spanish, French, Irish, and English, and gave much energy to catechizing Native Americans. His first synod in 1791 sought unity among the priests ministering to all these different peoples.
Reading a historical account or biography of Bishop Carroll, it is easy to fit him among our nation’s Founding Fathers, in the manner of Washington and Franklin. While such a characterization has merit, it should not detract from his role as father of the American Catholic Church. He was a pious man who gave himself to the organization of Christ’s holy Catholic Church in the United States.
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton was a friend of Bishop Carroll, and her biography by Agnes Sadlier provides a fitting tribute to Carroll’s character: “He had governed the American Church since the year 1784, first as Prefect Apostolic, then as Bishop, and finally as Archbishop. When he began his pastoral rule, he found the Church poor, persecuted, and unorganized; he left it full of vitality, and the spirit of progress, with several bishops, a numerous body of clergy, a population almost doubled in numbers, and possessing convents, colleges, and a seminary. Long and arduous had been the labor of this mighty toiler in the Lord’s vineyard, and the vines were loaded with rich fruit, when the Master called him to his rest.” He died Dec. 3, 1815.
In recent years, Bishop Carroll has been accused of owning and even trading one or more enslaved people during his lifetime. Whether this flaw is the deciding factor, he has never been considered for sainthood, as his cause for canonization never opened. ©OSV
D.D. Emmons writes from Pennsylvania. This article is part of a series exploring Catholic contributions over 250 years of American history. Find out more at www.usccb. org: We Hold These Truths.
Deanery 3 Vocations Day focuses on family & vocation
By Paula Wright Bolivar, MO
Aspirit of prayer, discernment, and community filled Sacred Heart Catholic Church on May 9 as Catholics from across Deanery 3 gathered for the first-ever Deanery 3 Vocations Day. The Bolivar event brought together priests, deacons, seminarians, religious sisters, and families from throughout the deanery for a day focused on fostering a culture of vocations within the Church.
The day began with coffee, donuts, and fellowship, followed by the rosary with an additional Hail Mary prayed in each decade for vocations. Bishop Edward Rice then concelebrated Mass with the priests of Deanery 3 to include: Rev. Allan Saunders, Pastor of Sportsman’s Chapel, Bennett Springs; St. William Parish, Buffalo, and St. Francis de Sales Parish, Lebanon; Rev. Jobimon Joseph, Parochial Administrator of Sacred Heart Parish, Conway and Holy Trinity Parish, Marshfield; Rev. Tuan Van Nguyen, Pastor of St. Elizabeth of Hungary Parish, El Dorado Springs and St. Peter the Apostle Mission Church, Stockton; The Very Rev. Scott Sunnenberg, Pastor of Sacred Heart Parish, Bolivar; and retired priest Rev. Patrick Wissman. In his homily, Bishop Rice emphasized the importance of creating “a culture of vocations” in families, schools, and parishes where
young people feel encouraged to listen for God’s call.
“Sometimes it takes other people to show us the way,”
Bishop Rice said, reflecting on the story of Samuel hearing God’s call, but needing the wisdom and guidance of Eli to help him clarify the call.
“When other people take up their challenge to show us the way, we create a culture of vocations where it’s normal to consider that the Lord may be calling a young man to be a priest or a young woman to be a religious.”
BISHOP WITH SEMINARIANS Catholics from across diocesan Deanery 3 gathered May 9 for the first-ever Deanery 3 Vocations Day. The Bolivar event brought together priests, deacons, seminarians, religious sisters, and families from throughout the deanery for a day focused on fostering a culture of vocations within the Church. Topics discussed included the discernment of and fostering of vocations, including the vocation of marriage, consecrated religious life, and the priesthood (The Mirror)
The bishop stressed that vocations begin within the family and are nurtured through the loving support and witness of parents and grandparents.
“ Vocations are a family affair,” he said. “A vocation begins and is nurtured within the family.”
After Mass, attendees participated in breakout sessions centered on the three primary vocations within the Church: priesthood, religious life, and marriage. Priests, deacons, and
SARAH KEEN NAMED DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT
Springfield, MO
Springfield Catholic Schools (SCS) is pleased to announce the appointment of Sarah Keen as Director of Advancement.
A Springfield native and proud alumna of Immaculate Conception, Keen brings a deep personal connection to Catholic education and a strong appreciation for its lasting impact. After nearly 20 years in Northwest Arkansas, she is returning to Springfield with her husband and three sons. She looks forward to her children attending the same school community that helped form her own foundation of faith.
Keen offers nearly two decades of professional experience in project and product management, sales, marketing, and external partnership development. She has held leadership roles with multiple Walmart supplier organizations and holds a degree in Journalism with an emphasis in Advertising and Public Relations from the University of Arkansas.
“I am honored to serve the Springfield Catholic Schools community and look forward to building strong relationships while supporting the mission of Catholic education for generations of Irish families to come,” said Keen. ©TM
seminarians shared personal stories about discerning a call to the priesthood and serving the Church. Religious sisters spoke about consecrated life, prayer, and discernment, while representatives from Marriage Encounter discussed the vocation of marriage and the call to holiness within family life.
“The event was a testament of the community’s belief in vocations. I applaud them. It was a wonderful opportunity to share with people of all ages about vocations, there were breakout sessions with priests and
deacons, religious sisters, and marriage. I was impressed that pastors from every parish in the deanery, along with deacons, were in attendance,” shared Sr. Janine Tran, CMR, who attended along with Sr. Elizabeth Hoa Nguyen, CMR.
Participants were able to attend two rounds of breakout sessions, allowing them to hear from multiple groups throughout the day. Resource tables and opportunities for fellowship gave attendees additional chances to ask questions and continue conversations about discernment and vocation.
“ What I loved is that Bishop Rice stated that vocations start in the families,” said Sr. Tran. “My discernment came through my mom’s and grandma’s prayers, through the prayers and support of my parents and grandparents. I persevered through their prayers and examples of fidelity.”
In closing his homily, Bishop Rice encouraged young people to courageously open their hearts to God’s call and quoted Eli’s words of wisdom to Samuel.
“ What would it be like,” he asked, “if all our young people would be courageous enough to say, ‘Speak Lord, your servant is listening?’” ©TM
KEEN
Local Lumen Christi Award nominee’s good works ‘born out
of love for God’
By OSV News Springfield, MO
The Catholic Extension Society, based in Chicago, has received 46 nominees for its 2026-2027 Lumen Christi Award, and they hail from Alaska, Oregon, and Maine to Southern California, Florida, and Puerto Rico—including the Diocese of SpringfieldCape Girardeau.
The Lumen Christi Award is Catholic Extension’s highest honor. Since 1978, it has been presented annually to people “who radiate and reveal the light of Christ present in the communities where they serve.”
Each year, bishops are asked to nominate one individual, group or institution from their diocese for the award. Collectively, their stories of spiritual care, compassionate service, and compelling self-sacrifice for others showcase the mission of the US Church.
experienced homelessness himself.
The shelter opens on nights when temperatures drop to 32 degrees or below and offers space for up to 30 men. Guests are welcomed by Jones and her team of volunteers with a hot meal and given access to showers, clean clothes and other basic needs. Jones and the volunteers also make their best efforts in helping the unsheltered get back on their feet for the long run, whether that means obtaining identification, finding work or securing more stable housing. Through Jones’ leadership, the effort has grown to include support from several Catholic parishes and local partners.
CATHOLIC EXTENSION—2026 Lumen Christi Award Nominee Marianne Jones, Springfield, MO (The Mirror)
“The Lumen Christi Award is a real-time window into the incredible impact of people of faith in America,” said Fr. Jack Wall, president of Catholic Extension Society, in a statement. “Born out of their love for God, the dedication of these nominees to the good of the Church and the good of their neighbors should make us all proud to be Catholic.”
From this year’s 46 nominees, announced June 24, a group of finalists will be announced later this summer, followed by the selection of a national honoree in the fall. Award finalists will receive $15,000 each, and the national honoree will be awarded $100,000 to support their ministry.
THE DIOCESE OF SPRINGFIELDCAPE GIRARDEAU
Interior designer makes space for those without shelter
Marianne Jones has spent more than 25 years as a professional interior designer, shaping homes across southwest Missouri. In addition to helping families create spaces of comfort and stability, she also coordinates the Catholic Cold Weather Shelter, a ministry of Sacred Heart Church, in Springfield. The shelter provides homeless men a place to stay during freezing winter nights.
Jones stepped into this ministry without previous experience, but she brought with her a strong sense of organization and a natural ability to help people feel at ease. Now in her fifth year as coordinator, she oversees the shelter’s operations, organizes volunteers and helps ensure that each guest is received with care. She works closely with a small planning team that includes longtime volunteers and one man who has
Jones stays at the shelter most nights it is open, getting to know the men and hearing their stories. Her presence shapes the environment; volunteers follow her example and work with Jones to create a space where people are treated with dignity.
“Our diocese has been blessed to have Jones voluntarily coordinate the shelter for five years, continuing this ministry to those without homes,” said Bishop Edward M. Rice of the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau. “She has a passion and enthusiasm that not only provides shelter, but also brings together a group of dedicated volunteers who share her devotion through meals, oversight and hospitality.”
Jones certainly knows how to make this space feel like home. Even if it’s just for one night. And thanks to her dedication and compassion, the Cold Weather Shelter is a place where the people who walk through its doors on cold Midwest nights can begin again.
Last year, out of more than 40 nominees, the 2025-2026 Lumen Christi Award went to a pastor and an educator: Father Melvin Díaz, pastor of Immaculate Conception Parish, in Guayanilla, Puerto Rico, and Carmen Alicia Rodríguez Echevarría, the parish school’s principal.
The award’s $100,000 was shared by the honorees and the Diocese of Ponce, to put toward the continual efforts to rebuild the historic Immaculate Conception parish and school after a 6.4 magnitude quake almost completely leveled the parish buildings in 2020. The mission of Catholic Extension Society, founded in 1905, is to build up the Catholic faith communities in underserved regions of the US, including offshore US territories.
NOTES: The full list of Catholic Extension’s 46 nominees for the Lumen Christ Award is at: https:// www.catholicextension.org/what-we-do/lumenchristi-award/2026-2027-lumen-christi-awardnominees. ©TM
DIOCESE OF SPRINGFIELD-CAPE GIRARDEAU @DIOSCG
Seven Sisters Apostolate formed at Guardian Angel
Oran, MO
ASeven Sisters Apostolate was recently formed at Guardian Angel Parish under the leadership of parish Anchoress Doris Eftink. So far, there have been 12 apostolates formed in the Diocese of Springfield Cape Girardeau.
The Mirror published an article about the Seven Sisters Apostolate at Sacred Heart Parish in Webb City. After reading the article Eftink researched to find more information.
“I never heard of the apostolate. I believe I was called to do something. The inner voice of the Holy Spirit spoke to me saying you can do this,” Eftink said. “Now all I need are seven committed ladies.”
For nearly four years Eftink has produced and circulated a monthly calendar to pray for a diocesan priest on each day of the month. The Apostolate was a perfect pairing to pray for priests.
Taking the information to Guardian Angel St. Ann’s PCCW proved beneficial with three ladies accepting to become a Seven Sister to pray one Holy Hour per week on a designated day of their choosing for their Pastor at Guardian Angel, Fr. Joseph Kelly. At the meeting Fr. Kelly was delighted.
“I have thought of introducing the Seven Sisters Apostolate in the parish,” said Fr. Kelly.
June proved the ideal month for the annual commitment of the core group to the Seven Sisters Apostolate, the month of the Sacred Heart, so dear to priests. The newly-formed group gathered with Fr. Kelly on June 14 for their Commitment Prayer. Committing to pray a Holy Hour weekly for a year was their gift to Fr. Kelly for his anniversary. His ordination was on June 12, 2015, the Feast of the Sacred Heart.
The Seven Sisters Apostolate is under the Tri-Patronage of Madonna of the Grapes, St. John Vianney, and St. Margaret Clitherow. For years Eftink had a portrait of the Madonna without knowing her name.
“It was another affirmation that
forming a core group was meant to be,” Eftink said. “The Blessed Mother waited for years in my home hanging on the wall knowing she had a plan for me to commit to the Seven Sisters Apostolate.”
HOW TO GET STARTED
The volunteer Seven Sisters Coordinator in the diocese is Cori Keefe (sevensistersspringcapeg@gmail.com) and is an excellent local resource for the Apostolate. On the national level, in St. Paul, Minnesota, is Janette M. Howe (sevensistersapostolate@gmail.com) the Anchoress Coordinator and Foundress.
The Mission: “Committed prayerful support toward a parish pastor through the assurance of the offering of at least one Holy Hour every day for that pastor alone, a ‘holy wasting’, as it were, for the conversion and holiness for that particular priest.” Three things will keep a Seven Sister faithful to the mission of the Apostolate. First, keep the commitment to a Holy Hour on their designated day of the week before the Blessed Sacrament. Second, pray only for the Pastor as best as they can without other intentions or distractions. Third, pray for a deepening devotion to Mary for the priest they are praying for.
The Seven Sisters Apostolate for any given parish may commence when seven women commit to offering a Holy Hour exclusively for their parish pastor. Contact the Seven Sister Coordinator to be officially recognized as members of this apostolate, requesting approval to start a group at your parish. Each participant prays on a distinct day of the week, thus covering a complete week. The commitment of each intercessor is to the day of the week not a particular hour on a particular day. If more than seven desire to pray they may be substitutes or provide additional hours of prayer.
Seven Sisters Apostolate…that our prayers may find the heart of every bishop and priest.
One Holy Hour, One Priest, Each Week, One Heart of Prayer. ©TM
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Article submitted by Doris Eftink, Guardian Angel Parish
PRAYERS FOR PRIESTS—A Seven Sisters Apostolate formed in Guardian Angel Parish, Oran. Pictured are (front row) Tammi Asmus, Janet Grooms, Dolores Pobst, Rosemary Bryeans, and Agnes Moore; (back row) Doris Eftink, Cathy Dirnberger, Fr. Joseph Kelly, pastor, and Carolyn Tenkhoff. (Submitted photo)
DIOCESAN
Faith & sports share the same playbook at St. Francis Xavier’s ‘Cathletics’ VBS
By Leonna Heuring Sikeston, MO
In the St. Francis Xavier Parish Center gym, each morning of Vacation Bible School began the same way — with a prayer and the lighting of a torch in a homemade cauldron designed by the church’s Catholic Grandparents Association member Marilyn Schwaninger.
On the final day, Fri., June 19, the flame was extinguished to mark the close of “Cathletics: Training for a Champion for Christ,” a weeklong program, which started Mon., June 15, organized by the parish’s grandparents’ group.
The theme treated children as athletes in training and Jesus as their head coach. Organizers drew explicit parallels between faith and athletics: in sports, the coach teaches rules, while in Catholic teaching, the Ten Commandments provide the rules to follow. Just as athletes work to build their muscles, children were told that Catholics must work by reading the Bible and praying.
Where sports offer medals and trophies, the program emphasized that the ultimate victory for believers is eternal life in heaven.
“In our faith, if we work hard and try our best, victory is life eternal in heaven,” said Sarah Lee Hunter, with St. Francis Xavier’s Catholic Grandparents Association. “The goal is for the athletes who attend the VBS to see how our faith and sports take hard work to follow the rules and become champions for Christ.”
Each day began and ended with an assembly in the gym, framed by the torch and backdrop cauldron, and always opened and closed with prayer. After the morning assembly, children broke into groups led by “personal trainers” and rotated through five 30-minute sessions: crafts, faith, games, music, and snacks.
Teams, trainers & virtues
Vacation Bible School participants were divided into five athletic-themed teams under the banner
“We are all on God’s Team.” The baseball team was led by personal trainers
Karen Ferrell and Becky Slaten; basketball by Kathy Mitchell, Dianna Henson, and helper Paxton Ross; football by Mary Ferguson; soccer by Mary Beth Bradley and helper
Sam Deere; and volleyball by Patty Bogue and helper
Sophia. Registration was coordinated by Mary Borgsmiller, Carol Largent,
and Mary Anderson.
Behind the scenes, assistant coaches handled the breakout sessions. Crafts were led by Danice Thomas, Martha Pearce, and Pam Hunter with helper Frances Heckemeyer. Faith sessions were guided by Kathy Hux, Jennifer Burzynski, Amanda Noyes, and Joan Chinnadurai. Games were directed by Omar Tellow, Marilyn Klueppel, and Tara Hux. Music was led by Debbie Pollack and Jillian, and snacks were provided by Borgsmiller, Betty Heckemeyer, and Anderson.
The curriculum centered on four cardinal virtues — prudence, fortitude, temperance, and justice — with an added focus on excellence. Prudence was defined for the children as knowing the difference between right and wrong and choosing what is right. Fortitude was presented as being brave and strong in hard times. Temperance emphasized self-control and not losing one’s temper. Justice was explained as being fair in everything and giving what is right to God and others. Excellence was described as doing one’s very best in everything.
VBS ‘PERSONAL TRAINERS’—The 2026 Vacation Bible School theme of “Cathletics,” June 15-19, in St. Francis Xavier Parish, Sikeston, reinforced the daily themes through costumes. On day one, “The Game Plan,” personal trainers wore a T-shirt, track pants or track suit, ball cap, running shoes, whistle, and name tag lanyard. For “Know the Rules”-day two, they dressed as a referee with striped jersey, black pants, black ball cap, and whistle. “Train Hard”-day three, the theme was fitness instructor and the coach and personal trainers donned sweatpants, T-shirt, running shoes, sweatband, and carrying a water bottle. On day four’s “Game On,” the leaders appeared as a cheerleader in T-shirt, shorts, knee-high socks, and pom poms. For Friday’s “Victory,” they dressed as a champion athlete in a sports jersey, track pants and running shoes, wearing a gold medal and carrying a trophy labeled, “Champion for Christ.” (Photo by Leonna Heuring/The Mirror)
on Friday. Each day, the youth were invited to pray for the intercessions of the highlighted saints.
children gathered at the front to perform the actions to songs they had learned in the music sessions.
Each day carried a specific theme: Monday’s “Game plan,” Tuesday’s “Know the rules,” Wednesday’s “Training hard,” Thursday’s “Game on” and Friday’s “Victory.” The program featured a “Saint of the Day” as a champion player: Pope St. John Paul II on Monday, Saint Anne on Tuesday, Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati on Wednesday, Saint Marguerite D’Youville on Thursday, and Saint Francis Xavier
On Wednesday, guest speaker Judy Comer shared additional information about Pier Giorgio Frassati. On Friday, guest speaker Joan Chinnadurai offered a presentation on patron Saint Francis Xavier and, as a native of India, spoke about her experiences viewing Saint Francis Xavier relics there while dressed in clothing worn in India for special occasions.
Service, music & rewards
Service to the wider community was built into the week. Catholic Grandparents Association member Comer constructed a church out of a cardboard box, placed where children entered each day. As they arrived, participants opened the church doors and placed a Kleenex donation inside to support needy and at-risk families. The project supported the Mission 100 Outreach Ministry of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, led by Jackie Cowan in conjunction with Spread Hope Now, in Sikeston, and the surrounding community. This year’s VBS program formally partnered with Mission 100 to support that outreach.
Hunter said music was a major component of the program. During each day’s closing assembly in the gym,
“It is a heartwarming time to see the children dance and do the actions for each song,” Hunter said.
The final assembly on Friday featured the same pattern of music and prayer before the official extinguishing of the torch.
Every child who attended received a Bible on Friday as a reward for their week of work “to become a Champion for Christ” during the Cathletics VBS. The Bibles were purchased with funding from a grant awarded by the Missouri State Council of the Knights of Columbus.
The week concluded with a volunteer appreciation luncheon immediately after the closing assembly June 19, in the St. Joseph Meeting Room at the parish center. The meal recognized the “awesome volunteer team,” credited by the association with making the vacation bible school a success, and organizers said they will begin preparing a new theme for next year.
From gym floor to Sunday Mass
The Cathletics theme extended into worship. All VBS athletes, coaches, assistant coaches, personal trainers and helpers were invited to attend the 10:30 a.m. Mass, in St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, on Sun., June 21. Participants were asked to wear their VBS T-shirts, process into church with
KNIGHTS HELP PROVIDE BIBLES—The Missouri State Council of Knights of Columbus/education grants program earmarked a grant to St. Francis Xavier Parish (Sikeston) so that to each child attending Vacation Bible School this summer would be given a Bible at the close of VBS on June 19, 2026. The theme this year was Cathletics: “Training to be Champions for Christ.”
(Photo by Leonna Heuring/The Mirror)
Fr. Colby Elbert, sit together for Mass, and remain afterward for a group photograph at the altar with the priest.
Throughout the week, the program’s “coach,” Sarah Lee Hunter, reinforced the daily themes through costumes.
DIOCESAN NEWS/ADVERTISING
CATHOLIC ‘CATHLETICS—The “Cathletics” theme of June’s Vacation Bible School extended into worship. All VBS athletes, coaches, assistant coache’s, personal trainers, and helpers were invited to attend the 10:30 a.m. Mass, in St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, on Sun., June 21. Participants were asked to wear their VBS T-shirts, process into church with Fr. Colby Elbert, sit together for Mass, and remain afterward for a group photograph at the altar with the priest. (Photo by Leonna Heuring/The Mirror)
On day one, “The Game Plan,” Hunter and the personal trainers wore a T-shirt, track pants or track suit, ball cap, running shoes, whistle and name tag lanyard. For “Know the Rules” on day two, they dressed as a referee with striped jersey, black pants, black ball cap and whistle. “Train Hard” on day three, the theme was fitness instructor and the coach and personal trainers donned sweatpants, T-shirt, running shoes, sweatband and carrying a water bottle.
On day four ’s “Game On,” the leaders appeared as a cheerleader in T-shirt, shorts, knee-high socks and pom poms. For Friday’s “Victory,” they dressed as a
champion athlete in a sports jersey, track pants and running shoes, wearing a gold medal and carrying a trophy labeled, “Champion for Christ.”
“The Catholic Grandparents Association felt blessed and thankful for the fun, love, peace, joy, and fellowship that was experienced by all during the five days of the Vacation Bible School,” Hunter said. “It was a very faith-filled and fun week.” ©TM
Heuring is the Editor of the Standard Democrat, who generously agreed to cover this event and share the article with readers of The Mirror
AUGUST 15, 2026
THERE’S STILL TIME: Register before July 31!
PRAYING, LEARNING & CELEBRATING
Regarding the CELEBRATION OF MASS WITHIN THE DIOCESE OF SPRINGFIELDCAPE GIRARDEAU on Aug. 14 & 15, 2026
On June 24, 2026 Bishop Rice issued a decree that all regularlyscheduled Saturday evening Vigil Masses in the parishes, missions, chapels, and other places of worship within the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau are canceled on Sat., Aug. 15, 2026 and further decreed that pastors and parochial administrators shall celebrate a Vigil Mass of the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary on the evening of Fri., Aug. 14, 2026, according to the liturgical norms of the Roman Rite.
DEC is about one month away!
Over 2,500 participants have registered and around 600 seats are available.
Unless all seats are filled before then, REGISTRATION CLOSES ON JULY 31.
Share the opportunity with others and get registered today at https://dioscg.org/diocesaneucharistic-congress/.
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
INTERESTED IN BECOMING A DEC SPONSOR? Contact Kandice Riley at kriley@dioscg.org or (417) 233-4039. For more information, check out the Diocesan Eucharistic Congress Webpage at https:// dioscg.org/diocesan-eucharistic-congress/