August 14, 2026
For it is in giving that we receive
Testimony of a Totus Tuus Missionary By Autumn Acosta
Vol. LXII, No. 9
One Church, East to West: Loving Jesus, Serving Jesus, Sharing Jesus
DIOCESE OF SPRINGFIELD—CAPE GIRARDEAU, MISSOURI
W
Adoration (misspelled words penned in waxen crayon that are somehow more eloquent and beautiful than a dozen sonnets). In praying with the older kids and sharing stories and testimonies of God’s love. How is this all possible? Well, for one: prayer. One of my favorite things about being a Totus Tuus missionary is the way that Mass, Liturgy of the Hours, the Rosary, and the Divine Mercy Chaplet are worked into our day. When I was first thinking about 2026 TOTUS TUUS MISSIONARIES—Twelve parishes saw 630 youth attend Totus Tuus applying to be a missionary, summer programming in the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau. The team of energetic I was a little worried about young adults lead the children in games, skits, lessons, prayer, discussions and more for how we would fit so much summer 2026 were: (front) Autumn Acosta, Kaitie Coleman, Lydia Clements, Shandy Elfrink; prayer into our already (back row) diocesan seminarian Jackson Gaeta, Bishop Edward M. Rice, Mark Klockenkemper, crazy schedules. It wasn’t
hen I decided to return this year as a Totus Tuus Missionary for the Diocese of SpringfieldCape Girardeau, many of my friends asked me why? Why commit my summer to eight weeks of traveling? Why succumb myself to a constant lack of sleep? Why consign my days to the inevitable stresses that come from teaching large groups of kids? Their questions were perfectly legitimate, but so was my answer. It is absolutely true that a summer of Totus Tuus is a summer of almost seminarian Thomas Dittmer, and Johnny Streeter. (The Mirror) constant self-giving. But it is likewise true that through serving as a Totus Tuus talking about the stamina that drives missionary, you receive far more than you a tired missionary to give their all to give. an arena-style gaga ball tournament There’s a certain grace that allows (complete with screaming, chanting, a missionary to find authentic joy in the and “Lord of the Rings” battle music), form of children pouring bottles upon a game of Ultimate Cabbage (think bottles of chocolate, strawberry, and ultimate frisbee, but replace the caramel syrup in their hair. In hearing flying disc with a cabbage coated in the distinct noise of aerosol-propelled dish soap), or an all-out water fight whipped cream as it’s sprayed next (you have to see it to believe it!) at to their ear. In feeling the sprinkles, the end of the week. marshmallows, and other random toppings There’s something sacred, that might coat their arms and legs as the something priceless, in watching missionary becomes a human sundae at the children and teenagers you’re the hands of the youth at Totus Tuus. spending time with grow in There’s a special strength that their faith. In hearing them sing, comes in the form of illogical energy “Sanctuary,” while going up to amidst weeks of low sleep. And I don’t receive Jesus during daily Mass. just mean the extra kick that comes from In reading the letters that the 1st an afternoon cup (or two) of coffee—I’m and 2nd graders write to Jesus in
“The summer saw a total of 630 youth participating in Totus Tuus across 12 parishes,” said Simon Elfrink, diocesan Associate Director of Youth Ministry. “The model of Totus Tuus is fairly simple: small teams of young-adult missionaries (usually two boys and two girls per team) travel to parishes across our diocese.” The summer schedule included: • • •
The next issue of The Mirror will be August 28, 2026. Sign up to receive the diocesan newspaper via Email in digital format: Contact Debbie Thompson at (417) 866-0841, or Email: dthompson@dioscg.org.
• • •
ADORATION—Totus Tuus grade school youth wrote notes to Jesus while in Eucharistic Adoration in St. Lawrence Parish, New Hamburg, June 21-26. Since 2018 in southern Missouri, the Totus Tuus summer youth program has promoted the Catholic faith through evangelization, catechesis, Christian witness,worship, and fun. (The Mirror)
and songs, and more,” Elfrink said. “The middle- and high-schoolers participate in the evening program of Totus Tuus, with elements resembling a typical youth retreat: witness testimonies, small groups, and tons of competitive games. Marian devotion, daily Mass, regular confession, and Eucharistic Adoration are
June 14-19—Portageville & Bolivar June 21-26—New Hamburg & Ozark June 28-July 3—Mountain View & Joplin July 12-17 — Ironton & Aurora July 19-24—Leopold & Neosho July 26-31—Dexter & Monett
“A team will spend a week at a given parish and spend their mornings and afternoons leading the grade school kids in classroom-style catechesis, wacky skits,
Continued on page 3...
Totus Tuus at St. Lawrence Parish, Monett. (The Mirror)
all staples of Totus Tuus.” “The Youth Endowment Fund pays over half of the costs associated with a parish hosting Totus Tuus,” said Lynn Melendez, diocesan Director of Evangelization, Family Life, and Youth & Young Adult Ministry. “We ask participants to pay $15 a person ($45 max per family) and the Youth Endowment Fund covers the rest of the expenses associated with hosting Totus Tuus,” Melendez said. “Smaller parishes really benefit the most from that financial assistance.” “I love Totus Tuus because it allows the young people to encounter Christ and his Church in a setting they’re familiar with—the parish—through the witness of young adults who are on fire for their faith,” said Elfrink. “The Christian faith is, by nature, a personal religion in that the entire life of Faith is centered around a person: Jesus Christ.” ©TM
2 The Mirror
COLUMN/ADVERTISING
Let’s be saints: a new academic year begins
COME, AND YOU WILL SEE Bp. Edward M. Rice
I
t is always great to begin my column with a “thank you.” Thank you for your support of Catholic Relief Services. The amount of $12,093 was collected through the Lenten Rice Bowl program. These funds will be used to provide emergency relief, agricultural training, and mother and child health projects in over 120 countries. Plus, 25% of the money raised stays in the diocese to support local hunger and poverty efforts. You may recall that I have a special Lenten Youth Project every year supported by the youth of our diocese. This year $29,262 was raised, donated to Mother’s House, in Hayti, MO, which is administered by Sr. Sharon Miller, GHMS, a Glenmary Sister. Together, over $40,000 was raised for the poor this past Lent. Again, THANKS! Speaking of “thank you,” as I write this, we anticipate our Diocesan Eucharistic Congress this weekend. I thank everyone involved, from priests and deacons who headed the various committees, diocesan staff, parish volunteers who did so much background preparation, to those who formed the diocesan choir, those who will sing and musically contribute to our worship, and so many more. I look forward to offering additional insights once the Congress is completed.
CATHOLIC EDUCATION
A new school year is upon us: another year of faith formation and academic pursuits. I am so grateful to the principals, administration and faculties for their efforts in forming disciples. The following words were included in a letter to administrators, school board members, faculty, and staff of the Springfield Catholic schools: “As we stand at the threshold of another academic journey, let us reflect
By Bishop Emeritus John J. Leibrecht
August 14, 2026
upon the wisdom of Pope Leo XIV, who noted that while we often focus on the instruction of doctrine, we must never lose sight of our primary calling: leading others to a personal encounter with Jesus Christ.” Such an understanding of Catholic education applies to all of our schools. What a wonderful year we would have if every parent, every faculty member, every student understood the primary goal of Catholic education—to be saints. How does that happen? Through the primary calling of leading our students to a personal encounter with Jesus Christ. On August 8, we celebrated the Feast of St. Dominic. That morning, I sent a text to a Dominican priest-friend of mine, wishing him a blessed feast day. He texted back “Thank you! I pray for you every day. Let’s be saints!” Those last three words were striking; Let’s be saints! It was such a simple statement of fact, so focused and filled with enthusiasm and possibility. This is why we are here on this earth—to be saints. I’ve quoted many times the words of Leon Bloy. Bloy died in 1917. He was an agnostic at an early age and cultivated an intense hatred for the Catholic Church and its teachings. But through the influence of a Catholic neighbor, he experienced a religious conversion and was received into the Catholic Church. While his life had ups and downs, he was intense about his faith saying, “The only real sadness, the only real failure, the only great tragedy in life, is not to become a saint.” Let’s apply that thought to this upcoming academic session, 2026-27:
every student in our classrooms whether it be in a day school or a PSR program. Let that thought—sainthood— be the hope of every teacher, every administrator, and every principal. Let our teachers not academically fail our students, but even more, let not our teachers fail our students in inspiring them to holiness and sanctity. Of course, our schools cannot take the place of parents! So parents, by enrolling their children in our schools, must collaborate with us in this most important endeavor. What the school hopes to accomplish— holiness—must be supported at home. May each home be a “Domestic Church” that supports and complements the pursuit of holiness at school. Pope Benedict XVI said it well,
“Man was created for greatness—for God Himself; He was created to be filled by God.” Let Catholic education accomplish this goal and may this be the best school year ever.
O Sacrament Most Holy, O Sacrament Divine, all praise and all thanksgiving be every moment Thine. ©TM
A N OT HE R WAL K TH R OU G H :
‘Walking Together’
Before his retirement in 2008 as the Fifth Bishop of the Diocese of SpringfieldCape 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.
October 13, 1995 A third-grader asked, “Bishop, do you know what sea monsters eat?” I said, “Tell me.” The child said, “Fish and ships.”
October 20, 1995 The teacher said, “Give me an example of two pronouns,” as she looked at Joseph. “Who? Me?” Joseph answered. The teacher said, “Well done, Joseph!” October 27, 1995 “I want you to remember,” the doctor told the little boy, “the best time to take a bath is just before retiring.” With a big smile the boy replied, “That’s great. It’s a long time until I’ll be 65!”
FIRST FRIDAY MASS for VOCATIONS
B
ishop Rice will celebrate the Votive Mass of the Sacred Heart for Vocations each First Friday of the month, followed by the Rosary.
All parishes are invited to celebrate First Friday Masses for Vocations as we continue to pray for more vocations to the priesthood and religious life in our diocese.
BISHOP RICE’S SCHEDULE for FIRST FRIDAY MASS: Fri., Sept. 4
St. Agnes Cathedral, Springfield
5:30 p.m.
DIOCESAN NEWS/ADVERTISING
August 14, 2026
I’ve gotten to know have been among, if not the, greatest blessing of the summer. Not only do you get to overcome hard things together, you get to be silly—acting in skits and leading songs. You develop the most absurd inside jokes (the best of which usually originate after Night Program, when you’re all too tired for rational thought). You make memories in the form of random side-quests (like looking for a chicken to use as a team mascot, or crawling through tunnels in the TRAINING & MISSIONARY OLYMPICS—Wearing tonchos (a church basement). And you beach towel that has a hole cut out, worn like a poncho), Totus Tuus might even make history by Missionaries from Springfield-Cape Girardeau, spent a week in training winning the Camp Olympics in Wichita and competed with other missionaries from around the during missionary training country in Missionary Olympics. The Springfield-Cape team was in Wichita while wearing victorious in 2026 Missionary Olympics. (The Mirror) matching tonchos (a toncho is a beach towel that has a hole cut out so you long before I learned how unfounded and can wear it like a poncho). silly my concerns were because it’s only by Totus Tuus has been life-changing for putting prayer first that any of it is possible! me in countless ways and I’m so grateful to The times spent in the chapel praying as a team are the moments that keep us anchored, the parish coordinators, priests, diocesan staff, volunteers, and everyone else who filled, and focused throughout the day and I makes this program possible. Thank you, wouldn’t trade them for anything. parents, for sending your kids to Totus And speaking of my team … the Tuus. Thank you donors to the Diocesan community that I feel by working with other Capital Campaign from which the Youth young adult Catholics is incredible. Both Endowment Fund was formed. this year and last year, the amazing people If you are in a parish that is considering hosting Totus Tuus, I can’t endorse the program enough. If you’re a young adult reading this, I highly recommend that you consider working one of your summers as a Totus Tuus missionary! It is 100% worth it and, once again, you will receive far more than you give. ©TM
The Mirror 3
TOTUS TUUS MISSIONARY continued from page 1
VOCATIONS TALK—Diocesan seminarian Thomas Dittmer, of Cape Girardeau, fielded questions from a Totus Tuus participant during a vocations talk one evening for middle and high school-aged youth in St. Lawrence Parish, New Hamburg. (The Mirror)
WWW.DIOSCG.ORG
Autumn Acosta is a returning Totus Tuus missionary for the diocese and an Illustration and English student at Missouri State University, Springfield.
As of July 31, 2026, 84 parishes + St. John Henry Newman Center, Cape Girardeau and O’Reilly Catholic Student Center, Springfield reported 5,811 gifts & pledges totaling $ 2,546,688.57 or 82% of the 2026 DDF goal
of $3,100,000.
Thank you!
DEC PREP: VOLUNTEERS MAKE IT HAPPEN!
Volunteers from St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Nixa, assembled 3,000 Mission Packets for attendees of the Aug. 15 Diocesan Eucharistic Congress in the West Plains Civic Center. The Mission Packets will be in the Congress tote bags provided to all attendees in order to help identify the on-going fruits of the event. (The Mirror)
ATTENDEE TOTE BAGS ASSEMBLED BY 35 VOLUNTEERS IN WEST PLAINS
Fueled by pizza, water, Jesus, and one another, 35 volunteers gathered Aug. 10 and again on Aug. 12 in St. Mary Catholic Church, West Plains, to assemble some 3,000 attendee tote bags full of materials for the Aug. 15 Diocesan Eucharistic Congress in the West Plains Civic Center. (Photos by Kristy Nichols/The Mirror)
4 The Mirror
NATIONAL NEWS
August 14, 2026
US bishops ready nationwide prayer & action amid rising abortion rate By Peter Jesserer Smith
T
Washington
he US Catholic bishops are getting ready a nationwide call to prayer and action, with an official launch date of Aug. 18, to mobilize Catholics to address the rising abortion rate and the increased availability of an abortion-inducing drug. “Every abortion involves the death of a child and harm to the mother. Now with easier access to abortion pills, the abortion rate is tragically climbing, along with increased health risks,” Archbishop Paul S. Coakley of Oklahoma City, president of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), and Bishop Daniel E. Thomas of Toledo, chairman of the USCCB Committee on Pro-Life Activities, said in joint remarks. According to an estimate from Guttmacher Institute, a research firm for the abortion industry, 1.12 million abortions took place in 2025, marking a 21% increase from 2020. Guttmacher said 2020 marked “the last year of comprehensive national estimates” before the 2022 US Supreme Court’s Dobbs v Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision. Dobbs overturned the 1973 Roe v Wade decision and its related abortion precedents, returning the matter of abortion back to the legislative branch. Guttmacher found the figures for 2025 were largely unchanged from the prior year, but suggested abortion numbers overall may be an undercount due to people acquiring abortion pills in advance or obtaining them by means other than US abortion clinic providers.
THE ABORTION PILL
Abortion rates in the US bottomed out in 2017, when they were estimated to be just over 862,000, and began increasing again in the first Trump administration, which also approved the first generic for mifepristone, commonly called “the abortion pill,” in 2019. The pill is commonly used in combination with misoprostol for early abortion, although the same combination is also used in some miscarriage care protocols that were more recently recommended for consideration by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. More than six of 10 abortions in the US are performed through a combination of mifepristone and misoprostol, according to recent estimates. A federal policy permitting distribution by
mail of mifepristone was first issued by the Biden administration following the Dobbs decision. The policy has thus far been left in place by the second Trump administration, which approved a second generic for mifepristone in 2025 to the shock of pro-life groups. The Department of Justice, under the current Trump administration, has also sought to block state challenges to the policy pending a promised safety review by the Food and Drug Administration. But the status and timeline of the FDA review are unclear. MIFEPRISTONE ABORTION PILL—Boxes of mifepristone under the label Mifeprex Archbishop Coakley and Bishop are seen at Alamo Women’s Clinic in Carbondale, IL. In 2025, 1.12 million Thomas stated that the FDA “has enabled abortions took place in the US, marking a 21% increase since 2020. More than six a nationwide mail-order abortion industry of 10 abortions in the US are performed through a combination of mifepristone by allowing abortion pills to be prescribed and misoprostol, “a chemical abortion.” (OSV News photo/Evelyn Hockstein, via Reuters) in telehealth appointments and sold both at neighborhood pharmacies and Online, factors, such as the Walking with Moms initiative. ©OSV circumventing state laws that protect life in the womb.” “This leaves women vulnerable to suffering Peter Jesserer Smith is the national news and features editor for an abortion alone at home, without any medical OSV News. OSV News staff contributed to this report. supervision,” they said. “It also sets up additional --NOTES: The Respect Life Prayer to St. Joseph can be found here opportunities for exploitation by violent partners or in English https://www.respectlife.org/prayer-to-st-joseph and human traffickers.” here in Spanish https://es.respectlife.org/prayer-to-st-joseph. To stay informed by the USCCB on its upcoming prayer and action campaign visit https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/ iLd6hbl
RESPECT LIFE: OCTOBER
The bishops said that from the official start of the campaign through the end of October, when the Church in the US marks Respect Life Month, “the USCCB Committee on Pro-Life Activities is inviting Catholics to join a focused effort of prayer and action to stop the spread of abortion pills.” ccording to a Missouri Independent report, Missouri became They urged Catholics to seek “the the first state to outlaw nearly all abortions in 2022 when, with intercession of St. Joseph, Defender of Life” its Dobbs decision, the US Supreme Court overturned Roe v Wade, as well as to send messages to pharmacies and the constitutional right to an abortion. Then, Missouri became the pharmaceutical companies that are involved. first state to overturn an abortion ban through a statewide vote in “We are setting up a simple Online 2024, when anti-abortion groups were out-spent 10 to 1, according platform allowing users to click and send one to the Missouri Independent. The amendment adding abortion message that will go to multiple entities, such access to Missouri’s constitution passed with just under 52% of the as brick-and-mortar pharmacies and Online vote. pharmacies, distributors, and pharmaceutical In the November 2026 elections, Missourians will be asked companies,” said Kat Talalas, assistant to consider Amendment 3, another abortion ban with limited director for pro-life communications at the USCCB’s Secretariat exceptions. A “YES” vote on Amendment 3 would repeal the 2024 of Pro-Life Activities. voter-approved amendment that enshrined access to abortion in the “We are also developing state constitution. educational resources about NOVEMBER 2024 NOVEMBER 2026 the abortion pill, which will What was lost What we will restore help explain distinctions • Requirement that only doctors • Severely limit the between miscarriage care versus ending the life of a perform abortions. number of abortions in child in an abortion.” • Requirement that abortion the state. The Catholic Church clinics be licensed & inspected. • Require abortion clinics teaches that all human life • Requirement that parents be to meet high standards is sacred from conception notified & give consent before for safety & cleanliness. to natural death, and • Ensure parental or their minor has an abortion. as such, opposes direct • Additionally, because the judicial consent for abortion. Following the amendment provided a broad minors. Dobbs decision, US Church • Severely limit public and nearly absolute right to officials have reaffirmed funding for abortion “reproductive health care,” the Church’s concern for services. it likely opens the door to both mother and child, and • Prohibit gender-altering constitutional protection for have called for enhancing support to those made procedures for minors. surgical or medical gender vulnerable to abortion transitions on minors. through poverty and other
A
VOTERS WILL BE ASKED TO REPEAL ABORTION ACCESS IN NOVEMBER
The Mirror 5
DIOCESAN NEWS
August 14, 2026
OBITUARY // Sr. Laureana (Virginia) Perez, DC St. Louis, MO
S
ister Laureana (Virginia) Perez, DC, died at Seton Residence on Aug. 4, 2026. Sister was born on Jan. 16, 1934, in Puerto Rico and is one of six children of Laureana (Ruiz) and Ernesto Perez. She graduated from Immaculate Conception Academy, in Mayaguez, in 1951, and received a BS in Math from the University of Puerto Rico in 1955 and a Masters degree in
Belleville, IL—In light of the upcoming
midterm elections, The National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows will offer a new program-Morality, Public Policy and the Common Good: How the Church Stands in the World, Thu., Sept. 17. When we think of the relationship between Church and state, how does Catholic teaching define that relationship? What role should religion and moral convictions play in political life? Presenter: Fr. Charles Bouchard, OP. Cost: $15; pre-registration is required. Information and Online registration is available at https://snows.org/events/ church-world/, or call (618) 394-6281.
Ministry from Creighton University in Omaha, NE, in 1981. She entered the Daughters of Charity in St. Louis, MO, in January, 1957. After initial formation, Sr. Perez served as a teacher at Our Lady of Talpa School, in Los Angeles, CA; Mount Carmel and Immaculate Conception Academy in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, and in Pastoral Ministry/ CCD in Scottsbluff, NE, and in Texas in San Antonio, Alpine, Alamo, Crane and
ANNOUNCEMENTS
persons who live in their daily lives what is fundamental for being Christian (the love of God and neighbor). Upcoming Women’s Weekend-Oct. 15-18 at the CMR Retreat Center. More information may be found at www.dioscg.org/cursillo, or you may contact Dale Gerecke at (573) 450-3335 or dale@gereckelaw.com.
Diocesan-wide—Ascend is a formation
opportunity open to everyone in the parish, especially all catechists, youth ministers, OCIA leaders, pastoral council members, and parish volunteers. The goal is to form intentional disciples in the home, the parish, and wider community. The day will begin at 9am and end at 12:30pm, a light lunch is provided. Thanks to donors to the annual DDF, the day is free of charge. Dates and locations are as follows: Sat., Sept. 26-Sacred Heart Parish, Poplar Bluff; Sat., Oct. 3-St. Mary Parish, West Plains; Sat., Nov. 7-Holy Trinity Parish, Springfield; and Sat., Nov. 14-St. Lawrence Parish, Monett. Register to attend at: https:// dioscg.org/event/ascend-workshop/.
Cape Girardeau—All are invited to a two-day Theology of the Body Conference where participants will rediscover the human person through the teachings of Pope St. John Paul II. The event 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.” Early-bird pricing: $30 per person ends Sat., Aug. 15, when the cost will be $50 per person. For more information, go to https://tobeducators. com/.
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!
Carthage—Schedule a weekend
Liberty, MO—All are welcome as Saint
getaway with your beloved spouse to renew your Sacrament, deepen your communication, strengthen your relationship, and rekindle your romance. Attend a Worldwide Marriage Encounter Experience Sept. 18-20 at the Congregation of the Mother of the Redeemer Retreat Center. For more information and to register, visit: www. wwme.org
Carthage—The Cursillo Movement pursues two purposes or objectives: 1) to provide a conduit for living what is fundamental for being a Christian, namely, the on-going and total conversion of the person; 2) to vertebrae Christianity in society by means of these
Stanton. She then studied at the School of Applied Theology in Berkeley, CA, and served in the early 2000s as the Coordinator of Hispanic Ministry in Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Springfield, the Diocese of SpringfieldCape Girardeau, and as Program Assistant in the Daughters of Charity Services in San Antonio, TX, until 2014 when she came to Seton Residence to serve in the Ministry of Prayer. A Wake Service was held Aug. 6, 2026, in the Seton Residence Chapel and the Mass of Christian Burial was on Aug. 7, 2026, in the Seton Chapel. Burial was in St. Joseph Cemetery.
Lebanon—St. Francis de Sales Catholic
James Catholic Church, located at 309 S Stewart Rd., celebrates a Memorial Mass & Presentation by Scott Carter to honor Catholic Army Chaplain Fr. Emil Kapaun, Venerable, Aug. 29, 11am. Fr. Kapaun was a prisoner of war who heroically served the wounded and dying, himself perishing in 1951. After the Memorial Mass & Presentation, Fr. Charles Rowe will accept a portrait of Fr. Kapaun on behalf of Bishop James Johnston, Jr., in honor of the Kansas priest. For more information, contact Ann Marie Puck, St. James Parish, Coordinator-Commander of Servant of God Fr. Vincent R. Capadanno Catholic War Veterans, USA, and Pastoral Veteran Advocate, annroberts977@gmail.com.
Sister Perez was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers, Manuel and Victor Perez, and her sisters, Aurelia Cordero and Josefa Castra Perez. She is survived by her sister, Felipa Perez, other loving family members, many friends, and her Sisters in community. Donations may be made to the Daughters of Charity, 4330 Olive Street, St. Louis, MO 63108. Condolences may be shared Online at www.ziemerfuneralhome.com. This obituary appeared Online on Aug. 5, 2026 and was published in The Evansville Courier & Press. ©TM
Marshfield—Holy Trinity Parish Council
Springfield—Help the Catholic Campus
Saint Louis—The Beatification Mass
Springfield—Would you like to engage
of Catholic Women will host its Holiday Craft Fair & Bake Sale, Sat., Nov. 7, 9am-3pm. There will be a delightful array of unique handcrafted items and mouth-watering homemade treats. Proceeds will fund charitable donations for Camp Re-NEW-All, Catholic Charities of Southern Missouri, Catholic Relief Services, St. Vincent de Paul Society, Vitae Foundation, Walk for Life, and Webster County Victim’s Assistance. for Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen will be held Thu., Sept. 24, 2pm in The Dome at America’s Center, Saint Louis. Tickets for the Beatification Mass are on sale with a limit of 10 tickets per person. Tickets are available at: https://www.celebratesheen. com/. Volunteers are needed to assist with the Beatification Mass and the Gala (being held Sept. 25). Additional information, including sign-up may be found at https://www.celebratesheen. com/volunteer.
Sikeston—The Knights of Columbus will hold its 74th Annual Chicken Fry, Sat., Sept. 19, 4-7pm. Chicken with sides & desserts- $12. Drive-thru only at the East Tanner Street K of C Hall.
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), located at 28745 Highway 61 in Scott City. Doors open at 7am and will close at 6pm on Thursday & Friday, and 12Noon on Saturday. Furniture, appliances, plants, jewelry, toys, bikes, shoes, lots of clothing, and much more!
Sedalia—St. Vincent de Paul Parish, Sedalia, will be celebrating Masses on the Missouri State Fairgrounds both Sundays during the fair. Bishop Ralph O’Donnell, of the Diocese of Jefferson City, will celebrate Mass at 10:30am, at the fairgrounds, on Sun., Aug. 16. Mass will also be celebrated Sun., Aug. 23, 10:30am.
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!
in Bible study? The Cornerstone Catholic Scripture Study is for adults who wish to deepen their faith through an increased knowledge of the inspired word of God, which will transform heart and mind. Please join us for a new study starting in September: Exodus-A Journey of Faith. Classes are available In-Person and Online: Tuesdays, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, 7-9pm; Tuesdays, St. Francis of Assisi, Nixa, 9-11am, and Holy Trinity, Springfield, 9:30-11:30am. For more information, please visit www. thecornerstonescripturestudy.org.
Springfield—Special Needs Parish
School of Religion. St. Agnes Cathedral Parish School of Religion will again offer a special needs class for youth in grades K-12, which begins Sun., Aug. 30, at 10am. The instructor and para for this class are both certified in special needs instruction. We are open to all special needs situations and welcome families from any parish in the Springfield area. Classes meet on Sunday mornings from 10-11am at St. Agnes School. We utilize an adaptive curriculum by Loyola Press, especially when we prepare the young people for the sacraments of Reconciliation, Eucharist, and Confirmation! We try to meet the individual needs of students and of families! If you have questions, please call Iris at (417) 831-3565 or Email ibounds@sta-cathedral.org. St. Agnes will have a back-to-school cookout Sun., Aug. 23, 12:30pm. Come meet the teachers and register for classes. We welcome your family to join us!
Parishes and organizations are invited to submit notices of future events to be printed on a space-available basis. There is no fee. The Mirror, USPS Publication 117-330, Copyright © 2026 by the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau is published every other week by Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau, 601 S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield, MO 65806-3107. Editor: Leslie Anne Eidson, leidson@dioscg.org Business and Editorial Offices: 601 S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield, MO 65806-3107; Accounting and Circulation Offices: Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau, 601 S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield, MO 65806-3107. To subscribe, call (417) 866-0841 or Email dthompson@dioscg.org. Periodical postage is paid at Springfield, MO. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Mirror, 601 S Jefferson Ave., Springfield, MO 65806-3107. Vol. LXII No. 9 August 14, 2026 Single copy price, $0.50 Subscription: $14 per year. Digital subscriptions available as an option to USPS delivery with paid subscription. For more information, contact dthompson@dioscg.org. Copyright © 2026, The Mirror, CNA, USCCB, The Vatican, as noted. The Mirror OnLine: www.dioscg.org “Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau” @DioSCG DioSCG
6 The Mirror
DIOCESAN NEWS
August 14, 2026
Food & faith unites people at
47 annual Marian Days th
variety of different foods. “We’ve been coming for at least 25 years,” Vu said. “Every year ood and Marian Days we have different fundraisers, are inseparable for some most of the time for renovations people and it’s a win-win to our facility and maintenance. for local residents and the different This year we’re fundraising to churches that provide the food. fix our parking lot. On paper we The 47th annual Marian Days have about 5,000 members and festival took place from August normally we have at least 300 6–9, 2026, in Carthage, MO. Hosted people come here to help us.” by the Congregation of the Mother Vu said the Marian Days of the Redeemer on its 28-acre food tent is something parish campus, this massive national members do together to help pilgrimage and cultural event drew bring them closer. tens of thousands of Vietnamese “There are key people who American Catholics and visitors have to be here at the tent to the local grounds for worship, all the time,” Vu said. “Most processions, education, music, and people split their time between community fellowship. working here and praying. We Jackie Boyer, a long-time believe in God but also we pray Carthage resident, said she and to Mary, Mother of God, to help her husband try to come to Marian us. We have several fundraisers Days at least once or twice, and BALLOON RELEASE—Thousands of faithful gather on the campus of the Congregation of the Mother of the Redeemer for during the year at our church the food is part of why they keep the annual Marian Days held Aug. 6-9, in Carthage, MO. Bishop Edward M. Rice was the homilist for the Opening Ceremony’s but this is the big one.” coming back. Pontifical Mass in honor of the Blessed Sacrament celebrated by Bishop Gerald L. Vincke of Salina, KS. (The Mirror) Kerrie Le, with St. Agnes “It’s a nice foreign experience money for their home parish. we didn’t have a chance to come here, Cathedral, in Springfield, said without the long plane ride,” but for five years now every year we’ve QUÁN HÚÓNG XÚA her church runs an ice tent, selling a Boyer said. “We do like the food out come and I believe that a lot of people Tien Alexander, vice president of the commodity in high demand around here and we prefer to eat at the Port get a call from Mary here. We pray board for the St. Joseph Vietnamese the Marian Days grounds where Arthur, Texas, church’s tent. We come among the believers that Mary helps a Catholic Church in Grand Prairie, TX, temperatures were in the high 90s out as much for the whole experience as lot of people [get to Jesus].” during the day. Temperatures often get anything. I sort of feel for the people who said their food tent, called Quán Húóng Xúa, is the biggest fundraiser of the year over 100 in August for the event. They come here in the heat and the weather, for their church. DÓNG HANH will deliver ice to customers’ tents. but the people here are cheerful all the “Normally we do about three to five John Vu is the facility manager at the “We also sell street foods so we time. Everything is so upbeat out there.” Dóng Hanh food tent from the Martyr’s have fruit like mangos and pineapples Held since 1978, Marian Days is one fundraisers a year but this is by far the Catholic Church in Arlington, TX. Vu biggest one,” Alexander said. “Every and we have jackfruit and some of the of the largest gatherings of Vietnamese said the name of their tent means “go year, we have 200 to 250 people come to traditional Asian foods,” Le said. “But Catholics outside of Vietnam. It draws together.” those will come later today because our between 50,000 and 100,000 people, and Carthage to help our church sell food. Vu said they have 31 different parish, it’s a big parish but not as many features more than a dozen food vendors Pho is our most popular dish. That has beef and a kind of rice noodles and some Vietnamese dishes on their menu with a volunteers, so we have a lot of people concentrated in tents behind the main bean sprouts and the broth comes coming in the evening. We are building on congregation’s campus. from cooking the beef bones.” mainly the youth group of our Nearly all the people who work the She said the church has been parish. I run the youth group and I food tents are volunteers from churches coming to Marian Days for almost have them come out and help. We in various states serving traditional 30 years. started yesterday and we’ve had Vietnamese dishes and working to raise “Normally we open a lot of kids here. We have about on Thursday but [this 40 of them here and they want to year] is the first time we work so we put them to work.” opened on Wednesday,” Le said the cathedral is building Alexander said. “This a new parish hall and they’re year, a lot of the supporting that project with the volunteers came early money they raise in Carthage. they need food, so that’s “It’s estimated to be $6 million why we opened. And we and we have around $5.5 million, have a lot of customers so we’re going to make the rest,” coming already.” Le said. “It’s a long way to go Alexander said but we’ll try. This is the biggest Marian Days is also fundraiser throughout the year. important for her We now have a regular fundraiser VIETNAMESE YOUTH GROUP—The St. Agnes Cathedral personally. HEAT INDEX OF OVER 100—A fan is spotted at Marian Days once a month at our parish and Vietnamese Youth Group, Springfield, runs an ice tent, selling a during an outdoor procession of Our Lady of Fatima. Every August, “I just joined this [Marian Days] is the biggest event the month of the Assumption of Mary, Carthage hosts the national Vietnamese community commodity in high demand around the Marian Days grounds of the year.” ©TM th where temperatures were in the high 90s during the day. The 47 pilgrimage and cultural event which draws tens of thousands of about five years ago,” annual Marian Days was held in Carthage Aug. 6-9 on the campus This article was made available to The Vietnamese American Catholics and visitors to the local grounds she said. “Before that we of the Congregation of the Mother of the Redeemer. for worship, processions, education, music, and community Mirror thanks to our friends at The lived in California and (Photo by John Hacker/The Joplin Globe/The Mirror) Joplin Globe. fellowship. (The Mirror) By John Hacker
F
Carthage, MO
The Mirror 7
DIOCESAN NEWS/ADVERTISING
August 14, 2026
AMERICAN MARTYR: THE STANLEY ROTHER STORY
P
resented by the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, the documentary tells the incredible true story of the first American-born priest to be recognized as a martyr and features interviews with Archbishop Coakley, Msgr. Donald Wolf, Maria Scaperlanda, and many of the people Blessed Stanley Rother served in Guatemala. The film will be in theaters for three days: Aug. 25-26 (Engish; narrated by Martin Sheen) and Aug. 27 (Spanish; dubbed; narrated by Fr. Rafael Capo). Parishes: find more resources at https://www.rotherdoc. com/parish-resources. ©TM
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...
We specialize in custom trips for Bishops, Priests & Deacons! Currently hiring Deacons to promote our many pilgrimages ATTRACTIVE compensation. For more info contact: Karen@proximotravel.com.
To register call 855-842-8001 or at www.proximotravel.com.
Diocese to hold Retirement Fund
for Religious Collection
Springfield
T
he National Religious Retirement Office (NRRO) is announcing that the annual Retirement Fund for Religious collection will be held in parishes throughout the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau on the weekend of Sept. 19-20. In 2025, Catholics across the diocese contributed $93,221.43 to the collection, mostly through their home parishes. From the collection, the Congregation of the Mother of the Redeemer, in Carthage, and Nazareth Hermitage, in Ava, received a combined total of $401,860.30 in financial support made possible by the Retirement Fund for Religious. “The generosity of US Catholics continues to make a profound difference in the lives of aging religious,” said John Knutsen, NRRO director. “This year, we invite all Catholics to help provide the care and dignity these women and men of faith so richly deserve.” Rising health-care costs and the absence of traditional retirement plans have placed significant financial strain on many religious communities. The Retirement Fund for Religious helps address this need, supporting thousands of religious over the age of 70. In 2025, the average annual cost of care was nearly $62,000 per person, with skilled nursing care averaging $102,000. Since its establishment in 1988, the collection has raised and distributed over $1 billion in direct care and other forms of assistance. In 2025, the appeal raised over $37.1 million, providing financial assistance for
the retirement needs of 261 US religious communities. Beyond financial aid, the collection supports educational programs, empowering religious communities to plan for their long-term needs.
About the NRRO
The NRRO coordinates the annual national appeal for the Retirement Fund for Religious and distributes financial assistance to eligible religious communities. It is sponsored by the Conference of Major Superiors of Men, the Council of Major Superiors of Women Religious, the Leadership Conference of Women Religious and the US Conference of Catholic Bishops. For more information, visit retiredreligious. org, or Email to campaign@retiredreligious. org. ©TM
Thu., Sept. 24 2:00 pm The Dome at America’s Center, St. Louis, MO
The Beatification Mass for Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen will be held Thu., Sept. 24, 2 pm, in The Dome at America’s Center, St. Louis, MO. Tickets for the Beatification Mass are selling fast! Limit of 10 tickets per person. Scan the QR code to purchase tickets. If 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. VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY: Volunteers are needed to assist with the Beatification Mass and the Gala (being held Sept. 25) Information and sign-up information is available at https://www.celebratesheen.com/volunteer
8 The Mirror
DIOCESAN NEWS
August 14, 2026
STEU B E NV ILLE CON F E R E N C E S help youth embrace their identity as beloved
STEUBENVILLE 2026—Bishop Rice greeted the large group of Steubenville Mid-America Youth Conference attendees from St. Eustachius Parish, Portageville: WORTHY! Over 600 youth and chaperones in the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau participated in the two weekend events held on the campus of Missouri State University, Springfield. Half of the diocese’s participants applied for and received financial assistance to attend the conference through the Youth Endowment Fund, which was set up because of the generous donations made during our Diocesan Capital Campaign. (The Mirror) the youth and then challenged them to spent inviting the young people to take another step towards holiness.” return to where their identity truly lies: in their status as a beloved son “There’s lots you could say about ore than 600 youth and or a beloved daughter of the Most the impact of a conference like chaperones from the Diocese Steubenville, and they are as diverse of Springfield-Cape Girardeau High God. God created us in love, by love, and for love, and it was special as the number of attendees. However, attended Steubenville STL Midto see the young people hear that, there are a couple that jump out at America Youth Conference held July maybe for the first time. I’m hoping me,” said Elfrink. “First, I cannot 10-12 and July 17-19 on the campus of it becomes something they take from overestimate the importance of getting Missouri State University, Springfield. the conference and apply to their the young people together to celebrate An outreach of Franciscan University everyday lives.” their Catholic faith. For the youth in the of Steubenville in partnership with Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau, Per the typical “vibe” at these the Archdiocese of St. Louis, the they are often the only Catholic in their youth gatherings each summer, the Steubenville STL Mid-America Youth classroom, or the only Catholic on their energy at Steubenville was described Conference, is part of a series of 25 team, in their workplace, etc. That can as “awesome.” The young people conferences across North America that be a disheartening experience, and it’s brought enthusiasm, passion, and a enable teens to encounter the love of not uncommon across our diocese, profound desire for truth. Speakers Christ every summer. This year’s theme where Protestantism is immensely for this year included Mari Pablo, was “Worthy.” more prevalent than Catholicism in Sarah Swofford, Brian Greenfield, “I loved that the theme of this terms of numbers; we are a real mission Chris Padgett, and others; all conference was ‘Worthy,’” said Simon diocese in that regard. It’s so important dynamic speakers with messages Elfrink, diocesan Associate Director of for those teens to see that they’re not that resonated with the young people Youth Ministry. “In a culture that values DEACON DISTRIBUTES COMMUNION—Deacon the only Catholic in the world, in their at Steubenville. productivity and hyper-individualism, Bryan Burger, who serves St. Augustine Parish, Kelso, diocese, in their state, or in their region. “Mari Pablo, who in my opinion it was awesome to see so much time and St. Joseph Parish, Scott City, distributed the They aren’t alone in pursuing holiness is just a phenomenal and Eucharist during Mass held in the Arena on the campus in the context of their Catholic faith. exemplary disciple of Jesus of Missouri State University during the Steubenville How powerful it is to go from being Christ, was amazing, as always! Mid-America Youth Conferences held July 10-12 and the only Catholic in a room to one of She—and Sr. Karolyn Nunes— July 17-19. (Courtesy Steubenville Mid-Am StL) a few thousand Catholic people [at will both be at the Diocesan of shepherd Bishop always is though, Steubenville] who are searching for Eucharistic Congress on Aug. you know? I’m always amazed at just goodness, truth, and beauty.” 15 and are often favorites for Steubenville attendees,” Elfrink said. how present he is to the youth. So much of what I’ve learned about fruitful Bishop Edward M. Rice, who youth ministry points to the value of attends the annual conference authentic listening and challenging weekends to be with the youth, f the 638 youths and chaperones the young people to participate in celebrate Holy Mass, and share his that attended Steubenville this year, their faith during this season of life. homily, had a great impact this year. 337 individuals applied for and received Bishop Rice did both in his “CatholicHis homily on Catholic-maxxing/ financial assistance to attend through the Youth Endowment Fund, which was set maxxing” homily—he learned about Faith-maxxing, which many youth up through the generous donations made videoed him delivering and shared to ‘Looks-maxxing’ from the youth during our Diocesan Capital Campaign. their social platforms, became a viral culture, from his many interactions with the youth; these kids were walking These donations allowed Catholic youth sensation as many youth took his and their chaperones to attend this life up to Bishop Rice all throughout both advice and expanded on it. changing conference: Thank you for your weekends to snag a selfie, asking him “It was hilarious to see Catholicfinancial and prayerful contributions to to sign or bless something, etc. Our maxxing /Faith-maxxing blow up GLAD YOU’RE HERE—A photographer from the the Diocesan Capital Campaign and the Bishop is never too busy to be present on social media, such as TikTok. Archdiocese of St. Louis captured this photo of to the young person in front of him. And Diocesan Development Fund. Impactful I would love to see that trend enthusiastic Brock Hulsof, a seminarian for the opportunities such as Steubenville are he allows those encounters to flow into continue—everyone go make your Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau, right before made possible because of both of these his ministry with them; the ‘Catholicown edit of what it looks like to the gates opened for one of the July Steubenville financial efforts and the Catholics who maxxing’ homily is a great example of Catholic-maxx in your everyday Mid-America Youth Conferences on Missouri State participate in them. that. In a simple gesture, he related to life!” Elfrink said. “That’s the kind University campus. (Courtesy Steubenville Mid-Am StL) By Paula Wright
M
Springfield
DONORS IMPACT YOUTH
O
August 14, 2026
The Mirror 9
DIOCESAN NEWS/ADVERTISING BISHOP RICE’S HOMILY
A
‘WORTHY’ STEUBENVILLE ATTENDEES—Youth and chaperones from Holy Trinity Parish, Springfield, enjoyed the Steubenville Mid-America Youth Conferences held in July on the campus of Missouri State University, Springfield. The theme for the 2026 events was “Worthy,” reminding the youth that they are beloved sons and daughters of an awesome God: created in love, by love, and for love. (The Mirror)
The Blessed Sacrament
one-on-one with Jesus in the Adoration chapel at our parish, He is the same. I would encourage At the heart of every Steubenville conference is the young people to remember that it’s not the an invitation to encounter Jesus in the Blessed conference that makes the Eucharist unique; it’s Sacrament. The Eucharist is the center of the the Eucharist that makes the conference unique. entire experience. A dedicated chapel remains That same Eucharist open throughout should transform our the weekend with regular lives when we Jesus present in the leave the arena!” tabernacle, welcoming “If I could say one thing teens to stop in, pray, and about Steubenville— simply be with Him as to the teens, the they go from one activity chaperones, the parents to the next. who sent them on the “Eucharistic trip—it would be this: Adoration and the Steubenville is not celebration of Holy Mass meant to be the extent in the arena are both of your faith journey. incredible experiences Steubenville is an for the youth. I’ve heard awesome opportunity so many young people to connect with Christ talk about the way the and His Church, but just Lord moved in their like at the end of every hearts during Adoration Mass, the celebrant says, at Steubenville,” Elfrink “Go.” My hope is that said. “There’s something the young people who special about being attended Steubenville in a room with a few allowed their experience thousand people praising to transform their lives, Jesus in earnest worship, even if only in a small and it’s quite moving to ST. VINCENT YOUNG APOSTLES—Forty youth from witness so many young St. Vincent de Paul Parish, Cape Girardeau, experienced way,” Elfrink said. “I people experience that the Eucharistic Procession and reverenced Jesus wholly hope the young people present in the monstrance during the Steubenville Mid- remember to go, and to encounter.” America Youth Conference July 17-19 on the campus of let their encounter with “And yet, there’s Jesus at Steubenville Missouri State University, Springfield. (The Mirror) nothing about flow into the way they Steubenville that love others, and the way they see themselves. I changes the Eucharist. When we gaze upon Jesus hope that Steubenville was more than just a fun in the Blessed Sacrament, it’s the same Jesus— weekend for them; I hope they remember that body, blood, soul, and divinity—no matter where they are worthy, and that they are called to go on we are,” said Elfrink. “Whether we’re singing a great journey with Jesus. I hope parents and with 3,000 of our new best friends or sitting youth ministry leaders get the chance to speak in earnest with the youth who attended Steubenville, to unpack the experience and dig deeper into the ways that Jesus called them over the weekend.” ©TM
re you familiar with the “lookmaxxing trend,” mostly among the younger generation of males? Now the term “look-maxxing,” might be new, but the attitude beneath it, a hyper-fixation on enhancing one’s appearance, it’s as old as lipstick used by the ancient Egyptians. Every age has tried to discover ways to put-off aging and look younger. The pursuit of youth has been around for a long time. In the desire to maximize your appearance, you can undergo surgery or inject solution into your cheeks or lips, or worse, use steroids. But in the end, there’s always somebody who looks better and we can become obsessed with this effort and, if we don’t achieve these unrealistic standards, we become anxious and depressed. That is the culture in which we live. That superficial standard is challenged by the Church, which looks into the heart of each one of us and says it is good that you exist. You are more than your external appearance. Each one of us has a beauty that is internal. Your worth, your value, how you feel about yourself does not depend upon external standards but rather in a life rooted in Christ. We are worthy because we were made by almighty God, who knew us from all eternity. We are worthy because almighty God loved us into existence. We are worthy because God so loved the world He sent His only Son to embrace the cross for our salvation. We are worthy because we were created in love, by love, and for love. At the moment of our baptism we were claimed for Christ by the sign of His cross, and it is from Christ crucified that we receive our dignity and worth. The culture says hook up, drink up, light it up and smoke it—do whatever you need to do in order to feel good about yourself—but that is a lie because in the end, it feeds into a hopelessness as we pursue what we can never achieve, never feeling like you’re good enough, always feeling inadequate. Our worth isn’t built on accomplishments or appearance or anything else that the world has to offer. All these things pass away. Our worth is rooted in our identity as children of God. Friday night we sang the song, with those powerful words, “In my Father’s House, there’s a place for me. I’m a child of God Yes, I am.” It expresses our deepest worth as flowing from Christ: “We are chosen, not forsaken. We are who you say we are... we are worthy.” Instead of this obsessive focus on self, how about we max-out on our faith? Instead of looks-maxxing, let’s promote Catholicmaxxing, faith-maxxing! What would that look like? We are all bound by the obligation for Sunday Mass. How about an extra Mass during the week, or Adoration. Instead of picking up a hammer hitting our jawline, how about picking up and praying the rosary. Instead of maxing-out on our superficial looks, let’s maxout on grace and the forgiveness of sins. But let’s not fool ourselves. There is a temptation to listen to the world, to live in the weeds and the thorns that can choke the faith. Let us reject those lies because we are made for more, our identity is in Christ. I’m a 65 year old bald man, actively working on a gut. But you know what I do have going for me? I am a child of God, redeemed by the blood of Christ. That’s all I need to be good soil, rooted in Christ, to bear fruit 30, 60, or a hundredfold.
10 The Mirror
NATIONAL NEWS
WE HOLD THESE TRUTHS
August 14, 2026
PA R T 7 I N A S E R I E S
C E L E B R AT I N G C AT H O L I C C O N T R I B U T I O N S T O T H E U N I T E D S TAT E S O F A M E R I C A O N T H E S E M I Q U I N C E N T E N N I A L A N N I V E R S A R Y
Mary Immaculate, patroness of the United States
By D.D. Emmons
O
Catherine Labouré, telling her to create a medal for Mary with the words: “O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.”
OSV News
n May 17, 1846, the US bishops, 23 in number, consecrated the United States of America to the patronage of the Blessed Mother under the title of the Immaculate Conception. The story behind this action, the story of the Immaculate Conception evolving as a dogma of the Church, was 14 centuries in the making. It began during the ecumenical council held at Ephesus (Turkey) in 431, where the Church Fathers proclaimed that Mary was the Mother of God. This action was in response to groups of certain Christians (Nestorians) who argued that she was the mother of Jesus only. That night, following the proclamation by the bishops, the people of Ephesus marched through the town joyfully singing, “Holy Mary, Mother of God, Holy Mary, Mother of God,” again and again. That day over 1,500 years ago was the beginning of an intimate relationship between the Church, the Church faithful and the Blessed Mother. Other than the Trinity, Catholics relate to Mary more than anyone or anything else. There are more schools, churches, and children named after her than any other saint. Parishes have many Marian devotions: We venerate the Blessed Mother with statues, shrines, monuments, medals, necklaces, the rosary, the Angelus. Countries throughout the world are consecrated under her patronage as the Immaculate Conception. So, too, the United States was consecrated under that same patronage centuries after the Council of Ephesus. It was during those in-between centuries that the dogma of the Immaculate Conception evolved.
DEBATE AMONG THE CHURCH FATHERS
While many of the faithful long held that the Mother of God was immaculately conceived, this was not necessarily the opinion of all the Catholic theologians throughout the years, and it was not an article of faith until the 19th century. In the Middle Ages, St. Thomas Aquinas and St. Bernard of Clairvaux, among others, debated that everyone was born with original sin and that Jesus took that sin away. How could Mary be exempt from original sin before Jesus was born? Eventually, Blessed John Duns Scotus (1266-1308) carefully explained that Mary was preserved from original sin in advance (preemptive redemption) while still in her mother’s womb. She was redeemed by Jesus, like everyone else, only in a different way. Duns Scotus was greatly influenced by Eadmer of Canterbury who, some
PATRONESS OF THE UNITED STATES
PRESERVED OF FROM SIN—Pope Pius IX made the Immaculate Conception an article of faith to
be believed by all Catholics through his 1854 encyclical, “Ineffabilis Deus”: “We declare, pronounce, and define that the doctrine which holds that the most Blessed Virgin Mary, in the first instance of her conception, by a singular grace and privilege granted by Almighty God, in view of the merits of Jesus Christ, the savior of the human race was preserved from all stain of original sin, is a doctrine to be believed firmly and constantly by all the faithful.” (Cathopic art)
research claims, said about Mary’s Immaculate Conception: “God was able to do it, it was fitting that he did it, and so he did it” (Potuit, decuit, ergo fecit). To the people of God, going back to the time before Ephesus, it made sense that the person, the vessel, carrying the Savior of the world would be totally sinless, beginning at her conception. The Church Fathers at the Council of Basel (called in 1431, and which later became the Council of Florence) gave clear credence to the preemptive doctrine: “This doctrine asserting that the glorious Virgin Mary, Mother of God, through the special preventing and operating grace of the divine Being, was never actually subjected to original sin, but was always exempt from original and actual sin, holy and immaculate, we define and declare as pious, and consonant to the Catholic faith, to right reason, and to Sacred Scripture; by all Catholics to be approved, and held, and embraced: (and also) that it is not lawful for anyone to preach or to teach anything to the contrary. Unfortunately, the bishops of the council were in a schism with the pope and this decree among others was not approved.
DEVOTION SPREADS
In 1477, Pope Sixtus IV (r. 1471-84) added a feast to the Church calendar: The feast of the Conception of the Virgin Mother thus encouraged belief in the Immaculate Conception, but it was yet to be defined as an article of faith in the universal Church. The belief in the Immaculate
Conception continued to grow, especially in France and Spain. In 1760, Pope Clement XIII (r. 1758-69) granted Spain approval to consecrate all the kingdoms of Spain to Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception. From the 16th century, Spanish explorers opening the borderlands, the southern coastline of the United States, dedicated their new discoveries to the Immaculate Conception of Mary. Her title was also given to ships, hospitals and churches. In the 19th century, the US bishops were certainly aware of the role Spain played in the continued exploration of our nation and were likely influenced by the consecration of the new lands to the protection of Mary, immaculately conceived.
FRENCH CONNECTION
The 1840s were the era of expansion in the United States: the time of covered wagons going west, new settlements, the California gold rush, war with Mexico. The bishops of the United States sought divine intervention to protect all those involved in the evangelization of souls, exploration, and the challenges facing the still fairly young independent nation. The bishops turned formally and publicly to the Blessed Mother— Immaculate Mary—as the nation’s patroness. Initially, it was Bishop John Carroll (1737-1815), the first US bishop, who placed the Diocese of Baltimore, as well as the 13 colonies, under the protection of the Blessed Mother in 1792. Then in 1830, across the Atlantic Ocean, in France, Mary appeared to St.
Part of the first order of business of the US bishops meeting at the Sixth Provincial Council of Baltimore in May 1846 was to name the Blessed Mother, under her title of the Immaculate Conception, as the patroness of the United States; notably, they named her patroness of the United States, not the Church of the United States, meaning everyone was protected by the Blessed Mother. The bishops wrote: “We take this occasion to communicate to you the determination, unanimously adopted by us, to place ourselves and all entrusted to our charge throughout the United States, under the special patronage of the holy Mother of God, whose Immaculate Conception is venerated by the faithful throughout the Catholic Church. By the aid of her prayers, we entertain the confident hope that we will be strengthened to perform the arduous duties of our ministry, and that you will be enabled to practice the sublime virtues, of which her life presents the most perfect example.” The bishops requested the Holy See’s endorsement of this title, and in February 1847 Pope Pius IX (r. 1846-78) approved the declaration. The actions of the U.S. bishops promoted and supported the doctrine that Mary was “full of grace” from the moment of her conception, a doctrine that had begun at Ephesus in 431.
AN ARTICLE OF FAITH
Eight years after the pronouncement by the US bishops, and encouraged by the universal belief held by laity and clergy alike, that Mary was immaculately conceived, Pope Pius IX made the Immaculate Conception an article of faith to be believed by all Catholics. He promulgated this dogma through his 1854 encyclical “Ineffabilis Deus”: “We declare, pronounce, and define that the doctrine which holds that the most Blessed Virgin Mary, in the first instance of her conception, by a singular grace and privilege granted by Almighty God, in view of the merits of Jesus Christ, the savior of the human race was preserved from all stain of original sin, is a doctrine to be believed firmly and constantly by all the faithful.” As if to affirm this dogma, Mary appeared to St. Bernadette at Lourdes, France, in 1858, calling herself the Immaculate Conception. ©OSV D.D. Emmons writes from Pennsylvania.
The Mirror 11
DIOCESAN NEWS/ADVERTISING
August 14, 2026
ATHLETIC DIRECTOR RECEIVES NATIONAL CERTIFICATION Indianapolis, IN
DURING THIS EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL, FR. DAVID COON OFFERS THE FOLLOWING QUOTE FOR THE REFLECTION ON THE EUCHARIST:
“At last the most wonderful day of my life arrived, and I can remember every tiny detail of those heavenly hours: my joyous waking up at dawn, the reverent, tender kisses of the other girls, the room where we dressed—filled with the white ‘snowflakes’ in which one after another we were clothed—and above all, our entry into chapel and the singing of the morning hymn: ‘O Altar of God, Where the Angels Are Hovering.’” — S T. T H E R E S E O F L I S I E U X 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.
TUNE IN TO LOCAL CATHOLIC RADIO AROUND THE DIOCESE! KQOH 91.9 FM Springfield K232FF 94.3 FM Cape Girardeau KHJM 89.1 FM Dexter & the Bootheel KFSS 94.5 FM Joplin KJCW 1100 AM Joplin 92.1 FM Carthage
T
he National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA) recently announced that Brian Pyck has been recognized by the NIAAA as a Certified Athletic Administrator. Pyck is the Athletic Administrator at Springfield Catholic High School. “I am thrilled to share this outstanding news that reflects both PYCK professional excellence and a deep commitment to educational-based athletics in your school community,” said Steve Kelly, Certification Coordinator, MIAAA. This nationally-respected certification, earned in collaboration with the Missouri Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (MIAAA), represents a significant professional milestone. The CAA credential is awarded to those who demonstrate expertise in athletic leadership through the completion of advanced training in areas such as legal compliance, organizational management, and educational athletics philosophy — culminating in a comprehensive certification exam.
•
Earning the CAA: Elevates the professional standards of the athletic department.
•
Enhances the overall experience for student-athletes through informed, ethical, and strategic leadership.
•
Reflects an unwavering commitment to the mission of educational-based athletics as promoted by both the MIAAA and MSHSAA.
“This accomplishment is a testament to Brian’s dedication to his role and to your school’s investment in high-quality leadership,” Kelly said. “Please join me in celebrating this significant professional achievement, which brings well-earned recognition to your school and community.”
About the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA) The NIAAA is an accredited organization and is the professional organization for interscholastic athletic administrators. Based in Indianapolis, IN, the NIAAA champions the profession of athletic administration through education opportunities, advocating ethics, developing leaders, and fostering community. For more information, visit the NIAAA Website at www.niaaa.org. ©TM
Riley Gaines was forced to compete and share a locker room with a transgender swimmer, Lia Thomas. Even though she tied with the male, the NCAA officials insisted on giving him the trophy. Ever since, Riley has been fighting to defend the rights of women and preborn babies.
12 The Mirror
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA! DIOSCG.ORG DIOCESE OF SPRINGFIELD-CAPE GIRARDEAU @DIOSCG
DIOCESAN NEWS/ADVERTISING
August 14, 2026