September 11, 2026
Called to serve: Deacon Mike Wilson
B I S H O P R I C E O R DA I N S 5 M E N A S P E R M A N E N T D E A C O N S I N S T. M A R Y C AT H O L I C C H U R C H , J O P L I N , O N S AT. , J U LY 2 5 . T H I S I S T H E S E C O N D I N T H E S E R I E S …
The formation process took time to get moving. Joplin, MO COVID-19 was a major setback as it was for n Saturday, many things throughout July 25, 2026, the Church. As for the five men functionality of the were conferred Holy formation process, Orders and ordained it was amazing, yet by Bishop Edward M. exhausting. There were Rice as permanent many gold nuggets of deacons for the information that helped Diocese of Springfieldfill the voids within Cape Girardeau. One my understanding of of the newly-ordained our faith, teachings, is Deacon Mike and evangelization Wilson, who serves in processes. Sacred Heart Parish, Our cohort was Webb City. assigned to Conception For Deacon Abbey and Seminary, Wilson, his journey east of Maryville, to ordained ministry MO, which required was shaped by a lengthy travel time. long process. From The hardest part was his conversion to DEACON MIKE WILSON ORDAINED JULY 25 — Deacon Mike Wilson, who will serve Sacred Heart not the academics; it Catholicism in 1992 Parish, Webb City, was ordained as a permanent deacon in St. Mary Catholic Church, in Joplin, by The was learning to juggle to a life-changing Most Rev. Edward M. Rice, on Saturday morning, July 25, in the presence of his wife, LeAnn Wilson, family life, career, experience during (Photo by Brian Landreth/The Mirror) area clergy, and many joyful faithful. current ministry Eucharistic adoration duties, study time, hobbies, etc. There in 2017, Deacon Wilson gradually God spoke to me through various events were many decisions and sacrifices that recognized God’s invitation to serve the and people over time, most of which I had to be made. To me, the academics Church. As an ordained deacon, he brings ignored or just didn’t listen well. Our were sometimes easy and sometimes his passion for Eucharistic devotion, awesome God woke me up in 2017 at challenging and I thoroughly enjoyed our youth ministry and helping others deepen the Steubenville Mid-America Youth classes in Theology, Canon Law, and Old their faith to his new ministry in the Conference in Springfield during Testament Literature. Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau. Adoration through a vision. It may sound The thing I miss the most about the The Mirror recently talked with weird to some but Christ in the Blessed time spent in formation is the prayer time Deacon Wilson and his wife, LeAnn, about Sacrament told me to write the letter with the monks of the abbey and with my the recent ordination. to Bishop Rice [expressing my desire to newly-ordained brothers. Learning the ins become a Deacon]. I wrote that letter and outs of chanting Psalms and prayers When did you discern your calling? because this was the first time in my is something I will always cherish. It was I joined the Church through full initiation Catholic life that I truly understood the overwhelming to see so many men in one in April of 1992, and I went through the mystery of the Eucharist. place loving the Lord at the same time. motions just like every other Catholic Getting away from the world one weekend that I knew until around 2013. My What was the formation process like a month is not so bad either. discernment took place over probably for you? Any highlights to share? Continued on page 3... the last decade and beyond. I believe
Vol. LXII, No. 11
One Church, East to West: Loving Jesus, Serving Jesus, Sharing Jesus
DIOCESE OF SPRINGFIELD—CAPE GIRARDEAU, MISSOURI
By Paula Wright
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From LeAnn Wilson...
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hat are your memories from the ordination? The overwhelming attendance of so many of our close friends locally and from around the diocese (including the Cape Girardeau area), the laying of hands and seeing my husband prostrate on the floor really touched my heart. I will never forget the joy I had when I was able to hand Fr. Chaz [Dunn] the stole and dalmatic in which he vested Mike after the prayers of ordination. We were able to exchange a long hug at that moment which really choked me up: I was very proud. The next issue of The Mirror will be September 25, 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.
How did you prepare for this new calling for your husband? What was your discernment process as you prepared for this new family vocation? The first thing I did was start looking
for new bookshelves to house all the materials we were buying and being given, this is still a work in progress. I don’t feel like I really had to discern myself as we were already living and working in ministry. This just seemed like the next step in our calling from God and adjustments were made as he progressed in formation. Some of those adjustments were scheduling family birthdays and our anniversary celebrations around formation weekends and study time. We were fortunate that the wives were welcome at the abbey during the formation weekends. I will never forget the surprise anniversary blessing and birthday we were able to surprise each other with at the abbey— Mike’s birthday is the day after our anniversary. What are you looking forward to most as your husband becomes a deacon? I am looking forward to seeing how
he uses his creativity in homilies and working in areas of pastoral care and sacraments for the parish and community. In what parish or other Church activities are you involved? I am currently involved in the parish choir, youth ministry, and confirmation preparation, PCCW, and I serve at Mass as an Extraordinary Minister. I also serve as a women’s Cursillo team member. What ministries are of interest to you? Youth, shut-ins, those away from the faith... prison ministry? My husband and I are currently involved in youth ministry and confirmation preparation. I would love to somehow start up a young adult ministry for those who are post-confirmation and assist Mike in working with families for funeral planning and visiting those who are hospitalized. ©TM
2 The Mirror
COME, AND YOU WILL SEE Bp. Edward M. Rice “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.”
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hat verse, familiar to many, is a solemn warning for us Catholics in the State of Missouri. Last year’s Amendment 3 passed by a mere 52% of the vote, allowing for abortion and “all matters relating to reproductive health care.” That last line is key because it allowed for sterilizing hormones, puberty blockers, and sex-change operations for minors, all due to the interpretation of that part of the amendment. Further, it removed parental consent for minors wanting such treatments and prohibited parents from their input when their minor daughter sought an abortion. The prior Amendment 3 was about much more than the issue of abortion. It was and continues to be an attack on parental rights and the family. Voting YES for the 2026 MISSOURI AMENDMENT 3 will affirm parental rights for minor children, ban fetal organ harvesting and sale, protect minors from sexchange surgeries, and sterilizing hormones. The 2026 Amendment 3 will ban abortion except in rare circumstances: up to 12 weeks for rape or incest, fatal fetal conditions, or when necessary to save the life of the mother. Finally, the new Amendment 3 would limit taxpayer funding of abortion. These next 60 days are crucial: Those promoting abortion without
By Bishop Emeritus John J. Leibrecht
COLUMN/ADVERTISING
September 11, 2026
The many ways to witness to the faith & life: vote, pray, attend to those in need limits are well financed by out of state abortion groups. And what does the Pro-Life cause have? We have prayer, of course, private donations, and grassroot efforts to get the word out. I have asked all priests to speak on Amendment 3 from the pulpit in the upcoming weeks, to use their bulletins as a source of information and display YES on Amendment 3 yard signs. What can you do? Please talk to your family and friends, especially those who may not be sure of how to vote. Give them clear information. The Missouri Senate Chamber features two prominent quotes inscribed on its walls. One quote, to the left as you enter the Chamber states, “Nothing is politically right which is morally wrong.” Day in and day out, members of the Senate walk into the Chamber to discuss the welfare of the citizens of the State of Missouri. May they be
concerned for the welfare of the most vulnerable, life in the womb.
HEROIC FAMILIES
And for those who may criticize the pro-life position, saying we only care for life in the womb, tell them to visit the LifeHouse Crisis Maternity Home in Springfield and Cape Girardeau, A residential program for pregnant women experiencing homelessness 18 or older. Lifehouse provides safe, nurturing home and supportive services for women who have chosen life for their unborn child. It is more than a shelter, it is a comprehensive program with the goal of creating a better life in the long term for a mother and child, providing case management, food and shelter, counseling, education, transportation, and much more. Now, for those who already have a pen in hand to write me a scathing letter stating I am always talking about prolife, don’t bother. I still have your letters from last time. Save yourself the cost of a stamp or better yet, send a donation to LifeHouse instead. Sister Lucia, the seer of Our Lady
AN OT H E R WA LK T H R O U G H :
‘Walking Together’
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.
November 24, 1995 This announcement appeared in a
parish bulletin: “The men’s group will hold its annual meeting on Monday evening. An offering will be asked for the Salvation Army. Bring your wife.”
December 1, 1995 The religion teacher told her fourth graders
that she wanted to try some big words on them. “For instance,” she asked, “does anyone know what the word ‘conversion’ means?”
Immediately, a little boy put up his hand and said, “That’s the point after a touchdown!”
December 8, 1995 Watching his new employee count out the day’s receipts, the boss walked over and asked the man where he got his training in finances. “Yale,” he responded. “That’s great!” Tell me your name again,” said the boss. The employee responded, “Yackson.”.
at Fatima warned all of us: “The final battle between the Lord and Satan will be about marriage and the family.” The destruction of the family is the goal of the evil one. I reference Fr. John Hardin who predicted: “Ordinary Catholic families cannot survive. They must be extraordinary families. They must be what I do not hesitate to call heroic Catholic families.” Please get the word out on the importance of voting YES on AMENDMENT 3 this November. Once again, I get to thank you for your generosity—to those who donated to the second collection to assist Catholic Relief Services for Venezuela and Colombia. A total of $47,052 was collected to help assist those devastated by the earthquakes. I cannot thank you enough.
O Sacrament Most Holy, O Sacrament Divine, all praise and all thanksgiving be every moment Thine. ©TM
DIOCESAN NEWS/ADVERTISING
September 11, 2026
The Mirror 3
ministry since 2010 and in the What are you most looking forward to lead position since as a deacon? around 2014. This I am looking forward to sharing my is an area in which passion for Jesus with those whom I I would love to stay walk beside every day in the trenches of involved, either at life. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament the parish level or has been an important tool getting me to on the diocesan level where I am today. I am so eager to help serving all young others hear God’s voice in the silence so people in the parish they can learn to recognize His voice in and within diocesan the noise of life. I am also eager to show Deaneries One and men that it is okay to love Jesus and still Two. do the manly things that bring us joy. I am also involved in Cursillo® What ministries are of interest to as a team member. you? For the upcoming I am currently, along with my wife, November Cursillo LeAnn, the lead of youth ministry at weekend, I will GENUFLECTION & ELECTION—(Left photo) Mike Wilson genuflected at the altar during the Entrance Procession of the July Sacred Heart Parish, in Webb City, attend for the first 25 liturgy in St. Mary Catholic Church, Joplin, at which he would be ordained a permanent deacon. (Right photo) Wilson is as well as confirmation prep. I have time as a member of called forward as a candidate for ordination to the diaconate before Bishop Edward Rice. From his conversion to Catholicism personally been involved in youth the clergy rather in 1992 to a life-changing experience during Eucharistic adoration in 2017, Deacon Mike Wilson gradually recognized God’s than a lay person. invitation to serve the Church. (Photo by Brian Landreth/The Mirror) I challenge all men in Holiness, Forming Intentional to be, thus, giving them the courage to to try a Cursillo Disciples” and “Being Sent to love Christ and want to actively share retreat to help them grow in faith and Witness”? their faith in the community. understanding of the Church’s need I believe the formation process toward for volunteers to help evangelize the any vocation is the perfect example Family Good News and in charity. of these three steps. Anyone who is My wife, Leann, and I will celebrate 35 Other ministries also include ordained or has taken religious vows years of marriage this November. We visiting the sick in homes and care has had to experience these three have two children, Brent (31) and his facilities, as well as working with the steps in their own lives. It is not just a wife Megan; Kayla (27), and her husband Hispanic community in our parish. deacon’s duty to proclaim the Gospel Derrick. Brent has given us two fun, yet and be ministers of the chalice. It is our hyper, grandsons in James (4) and Lucas What are your thoughts on what mission as priests and deacons to walk (2) while Kayla has given us one of each, needs to happen to help grow faith alongside others helping them, “Grow Kaysen (5) and granddaughter Elsie and better understanding of the in Holiness,” by living our daily lives by (1) who already has the ambition and relevance of the Church? putting God first. We need to encourage sassiness to rule the world. Catechesis! I think so many people continual learning, love of neighbor, are afraid of that word because they and other cultures to help, “Form Education don’t understand what it means. We Intentional Disciples.” In return, those I graduated from Webb City High somehow need to find ways of getting School in 1989 and immediately people excited about going deeper into that we mentor along the way will hone their talents and come to know the areas moved to Glendale, AZ, to attend tech theology instead of viewing learning where they can be “Sent to Witness.” school earning associate degrees in as a checklist of sacraments. Learning Architectural Drafting and Computer about Jesus seems to stop once the How do you see yourself assisting the Aided Drafting in 1991. Since this time, sacrament is received. There is so diocese in moving from Maintenance I have worked for J.S. Smith Consulting much to process about the mysteries to Mission? Engineers in Joplin and last May I of the Church and our faith that we LAYING ON OF HANDS & PRAYER OF The young Church is so eager to grow celebrated my 35th anniversary with will never be able to soak it all in. ORDINATION—Mike Wilson knelt before Bishop closer to God, but many young people the company where I have been the “The Scriptures are shallow enough Edward M. Rice while the bishop laid hands on his will not turn to their parents for lead designer/detailer on nearly 4,000 for a babe to come and drink without head and prayed the Prayer of Ordination, in which guidance in this area. A long time ago, I projects spanning 44 states. I am proof fear of drowning and deep enough for he asked God to dedicate the deacon to service at was a teenager and I totally understand. that if you love what you do and work theologians to swim in without ever the altar and to God’s people. Deacon Wilson serves To me, Maintenance to Mission means hard, God will take you places; may God touching the bottom” —St. Jerome. in Sacred Heart Parish, Webb City, and was ordained working with our people right where bless my diaconal ministry in the same a permanent deacon on July 25 in St. Mary Catholic they are in life, not where we want them way. ©TM What will your role be in “Growing Church, Joplin. (Photo by Brian Landreth/The Mirror) DEACON MIKE WILSON continued from page 1
FIRST FRIDAY MASS for VOCATIONS
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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., Oct. 2 Fri., Nov. 6 Fri., Dec. 4
St. Agnes Cathedral, Springfield St. Agnes Cathedral, Springfield St. John Henry Newman Center,
8:30 a.m. 5:30 p.m. 12:00 p.m.
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.
SEMO/Cape Girardeau To register call 855-842-8001 or at www.proximotravel.com.
4 The Mirror
DIOCESAN NEWS/ADVERTISING
September 11, 2026
SPRINGFIELD CATHOLIC IRISH RECEIVE 2025-26 SPORTS COMMISSION CUP
Springfield
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n behalf of the Springfield Sports Commission, the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame, and our presenting sponsor, Elliott Lodging, congratulations to you and Springfield Catholic on winning this year’s Sports Commission Cup at the 14th Annual Springfield Sports Commission Awards,” said Garrett Calvert, Coordinator of Sports Strategies & Events for the Greater Springfield Area Sports Commission, Inc. The Sports Commission Cup is presented annually to the school district that achieves the greatest success in MSHSAAsanctioned events throughout the school year. Springfield Catholic earned this year’s honor with an outstanding 275 points—an incredible accomplishment! The Sports Commission Cup trophy was officially presented at halftime on Aug. 28 to Springfield Catholic Irish student-athletes across its various disciplines, coaches, parents, and staff. “We want to thank the Springfield Sports Commission for all it does to recognize the outstanding accomplishments of student-athletes across our area,” said Brian Pyck, Springfield Catholic Athletics. “This award is a testament to the commitment of our student-athletes, coaches, families, and supporters who make Irish Athletics special. Thank you to everyone who helped make this an incredible year of postseason success across our athletic programs for Springfield Catholic! GO IRISH!!!” These accomplishments included: •
Boys Soccer — State Champions
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Baseball — 3rd Place in State
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Boys Golf — 3rd Place Team in State, along with Harper Elliott, Individual State Champion
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Boys Tennis — Team Sectional appearance, with William Hein reaching the State Semifinals
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Boys Cross Country — 5th Place Team in State, with Kyle Hathcock finishing 4th individually
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Girls Golf — State Runner-Up, with Grace Tiedemann finishing 5th individually
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Girls Soccer — 4th Place in State
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Girls Tennis — State Team appearance, with Catherine Cunningham reaching the State Quarterfinals, and the doubles teams of Jones and Taggart and Lee and Neville reaching Sectionals
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Girls Cross Country — 12th Place Team in State, with Emma Belk finishing 7th individually
The Springfield Sports Commission celebrates the outstanding athletic achievements of entire athletics programs at each school based on its performance in MSHSAA-sanctioned sports. The prestigious Sports Commission Cup, now heading into its third year, has quickly become an anticipated award, sparking excitement and competition among schools striving to earn this honor. The winning school proudly displays the Cup at their district for the year before it is passed on to the next recipient. For more information: https://www.sportscommissionawards.org/ sports-commission-cup. ©TM
We are so excited to announce that the 2026 LifeHouse Gala: Moonlight Masquerade is officially SOLD OUT! We are incredibly grateful to everyone who will be joining us for this special evening in support of the mothers and babies of LifeHouse. Can’t attend? You can still be part of the impact! Bid in our Online Auction or give directly through Fund Our Mission. You do not have to attend the gala to participate!
Bid and support LifeHouse: https://onecau.se/lifehousesgf26
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA! DIOSCG.ORG DIOCESE OF SPRINGFIELD-CAPE GIRARDEAU @DIOSCG
The Mirror 5
DIOCESAN NEWS/ADVERTISING
September 11, 2026
Belleville, IL—In light of the upcoming
mid-term 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. Explore 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 required. Information and Online registration is available at https://snows. org/events/church-world/, or call (618) 394-6281.
Carthage—Schedule a weekend 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. The immediate purpose is to provide a conduit for living as a Christian, namely, the on-going and total conversion of the person. The end purpose is to vertebrae Christianity in society by means of these persons who live what is fundamental for being Christian (the love of God and neighbor) in their daily lives. Upcoming Cursillo Weekends at the CMR Retreat Center in Carthage: Women—Oct. 1518; Men—Nov. 12-15. More information may be found at www.dioscg.org/ cursillo. For more information, 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 the generosity of donors to the 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. 14St. Lawrence Parish, Monett. Register
ANNOUNCEMENTS
to attend at: https://dioscg.org/event/ ascend-workshop/.
Jackson—You are invited to attend
Options for Women’s 14th Annual Banquet, “Steps of Courage,” Tue., Oct. 13. Doors open at 5pm, dinner begins at 6pm. Greg Mayo is the keynote speaker. RSVP at (573) 275-0420 or director@ optionsforwomencape.com. The banquet is free, however any donation to support our ministry is truly appreciated.
Joplin—St. Peter the Apostle Catholic
Church will have its 4th Annual St. Peter’s Septemberfest, Sat., Sept. 19, 5-9pm. This community event is an evening of food, faith, fellowship and live music. The Kids Zone includes inflatables, face painting available, and a Chicken Dance competition. Proceeds from the event support the needs of St. Peter’s ministry programs.
Kimberling City—Our Lady of the Cove Catholic Church will have its Fall Garage Sale, Fri., Oct. 9, 8am-3pm, and Sat., Oct. 10, 8am-noon. Clothing, furniture, appliances, tools, and much more! For more information, please call the church office at (417) 739-4700. Lebanon—The Knights of Columbus #6871 will host Footsteps of Faith Rosary Walk, Sat., Sept. 26, 9am. Let each step become a prayer, each moment an opening to grace, and each breath a reminder of God’s presence. This 1.5mile walk/hike will be at the Coleman Conservation Area | 2600 Buzz Pride Dr.| Nelson Park Sports Complex. Bring your shoes, rosary, tick spray, and water. Questions: contact Dustin Young, (417) 322-4528. Leopold— St. John’s PCCW will host its
annual Hotze Mission Breakfast & Bake Sale, Sun., Oct. 18, 7:30-10:30am, at the Knight’s Hall. A buffet breakfast of sausage, scrambled eggs, biscuits & gravy, hash browns, pancakes, and fruit salad for your good will donation. All proceeds will benefit the Missions. Questions: contact Geri Geringer at (573) 208-6445.
Marble Hill—Band Fest VII, benefitting Options for Women, will be held Sat., Sept. 26, at Ten Point Lake, 11725 Black Bear Lane/ CR 520. Rain-out location will be Leopold Knights of Columbus Hall. Gates open at 1:30pm. Questions: Contact Terrie Rose, (573) 238-5731.
Marionville— Men & women, ages 14-49 are invited to spend the day with the eremitical monastic community of the Society of Our Mother of Peace for its Come & See Retreat, Sat., Sept. 19, 9:30am-4:30pm, at Queen of Heaven Solitude, located at 12494 Highway T. Please RSVP by Wed., Sept. 16. For more information, visit www.marythefont. org. RSVP by contacting the Sons of Our Mother of Peace, CP at (636) 212-5042 or (417) 744-2011, or smpvocations@gmail. com; Daughters of Our Mother of Peace at (636) 495-5382 or smpsistersvoc@ gmail.com. Marshfield—Holy Trinity Catholic Church & the Knights of Columbus #10844 will have its Fall Fish Frys, Fri., Oct. 2, and Fri., Oct. 23, 4:30-6:30pm, in the parish hall. Fried and/or baked fish, fries, hush puppies, green beans, slaw, and a tasty dessert. Cost: $12-Adults, $7-Children, ages 6-12yrs. of age; under age 5-free.
Marshfield—Holy Trinity Parish Council
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 mouthwatering homemade treats. Proceeds will fund charitable donations for Camp ReNEW-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.
Saint Louis—The Beatification Mass
for Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen will be held Thu., Sept. 24, 2pm at The Dome at America’s Center, Saint Louis, MO. The Catholic Center has 60 tickets available for purchase (tickets are mobile tickets that would need to be transferred to an Email address and are available in up to blocks of 10 seats together (upper 400s level.) Cost is $15 each. If interested, please contact Debbie at dthompson@ dioscg.org or call (417) 866-0841.
Salem—You are invited to join the 39th
National Life Chain, Sun., Oct. 4, 1-3pm. Meet in the parking lot of Crossroads Center. Life Chain is a peaceful, prayerful public witness of pro-life Americans standing in remembrance of 61 million lives lost to abortion, praying for our nation, for people in crisis situations and for an end to abortion. Lawn chairs, umbrellas, and strollers are welcome! Bring your family! Questions: Contact
Margaret, (573) 578-0043. Find more information about Life Chain at: https:// www.lifechain.org/.
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 Knights of Columbus Hall, East Tanner St.
Sikeston—STFXCC Grief Support Group will begin its fall session, Seasons of Hope, Mon., Sept. 14, and continue for six consecutive Mondays, 1-3pm. For more information, please call Paz in the parish office, (573) 471-244.
Sikeston—During the month of
November, the STFXCC Grief Support Ministry, is sponsoring Candles for Life, for All Souls Month, to honor lost loved ones. Candles may be purchased for $5 each. Deadline to purchase candles is Thu., Oct. 1. For more information, please call Paz, at the parish office, (573) 471-2447.
Springfield— St. Agnes Cathedral
PCCW’s “Women of Faith Group” invites men & women to its Morning of Reflection: “The Many Ways of Grieving,” Sat., Oct. 3, 9am – Noon, in the Pallotti Center, located in The Catholic Center. The morning will include prayer, presentation by Bev Steelman, parishioner, and discussion, followed by lunch. Please RSVP to St. Agnes Cathedral, (417) 831-3565 by Mon., Sept. 28.
Springfield—Catholic Campus Ministry
invites you to celebrate 25 years in the O’Reilly Catholic Student Center, Sat., Oct. 17, 2026. The evening begins with a Social Hour at 6pm, and dinner at 7pm; featuring guest speaker, evangelist and musician, Tony Melendez. Find more information and buy tickets at https:// www.ccm847.org/25gala.
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 Hayti area, VBS, and other needs that arise in the parish.
Parishes and organizations are invited to submit notices of future events to be printed on a space-available basis. There is no fee.
(24 hours a day, seven days a week)
Perpetual Adoration at Saint Francis Medical Center, Cape Girardeau Call Donna (573) 450-1451
Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration at Holy Trinity Church, Springfield Call Marilyn (417) 224-4043
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. 11 September 11, 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
ADULT FAITH/ADVERTISING
Cursillo or ‘Cur See Yo’
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September 11, 2026
UPCOMING CURSILLO WEEKENDS
The Cursillo® MEN’S WEEKENDS: he first question we ask is The Movement “what”—“What is this?” or “What invitation to a November 12-15 pursues two By is that?” This is how we learn to Cursillo is always Fr. John purposes or Carthage, MO Braun speak; first, we learn what a thing is, then made from one objectives. we inquire into its purpose, its parts, and Catholic to The immediate December 3-6 how it works. another, and a purpose is Fredericktown, MO brief explanation is all that My next youngest brother—we are known as “Irish to provide a is needed: It’s a short course twins,” he being 11 months my junior—tells a story conduit for living WOMEN’S WEEKENDS: in Christianity. This short about me. He says that he would point to a thing and what is fundamental for being a Christian, course in Christianity takes ask, “Johnny, what is that?” And, he says, I would make October 15-18 namely, the on-going and total conversion of place on a Cursillo weekend. up my own name for it. Later, when someone in the the person. The end purpose is to vertebrae Carthage, MO It begins on a Thursday family told him its actual name, he was confused, “But Christianity in society by means of these evening at 6:30 p.m. If Johnny didn’t say it was that, he said it was something persons who live what is fundamental November 19-22 else.” Which was a good lesson for him; namely, Johnny someone has a day-time job, for being Christian (the love of God and Fredericktown, MO they would leave after work can be wrong; can be making it up, and not everyone neighbor) in their daily lives. should be assumed to be telling me the truth. Thanks to in order to arrive at the facility for the first activity. me, he’s not gullible. You can also contact Dale Gerecke at That evening is spent Something similar happens with Cursillo—only we SCAN QR (573) 450-3335 or dale@gereckelaw. CODE for in silent reflection and didn’t invent the word. The first thing someone wants com, contact a Cursillista in your parish, or more info and prayer, and the course itself to know upon hearing the word is, “What is it?” The search “Cursillo” on the diocesan Website: to register extends over the next three first difficulty in introducing someone to Cursillo here online! dioscg.org days—Friday, Saturday, and in our diocese is that it’s a Spanish word, and most of concluding on Sunday at us don’t speak Spanish. While most of us have heard, about 3 p.m. and even know, a few Spanish words after about 40 years of a strong Hispanic presence in our diocese, we That’s what Cursillo is, are still a monolingual culture and foreign words throw and the first difficulty for us off a little. Over time—and it doesn’t take long—we Cursillo in our diocese has develop a structure in our minds that allows us to make been surmounted. connections to new things quite rapidly. When we ask, The second difficulty “What is that?” and are told its name, we immediately deals with the questions know what it is because we can connect it to many in our minds when we are other things that have been named for us. invited to a short course in Christianity—or to almost When someone is asked, “Would you like to anything else in the Church: make a Cursillo?” we might ask, “What is it?” but the What am I really getting blank space in our mind will be larger than usual, myself into? And how much the confusion intensified, which can go in one of two CURSILLO 134—A Women’s Cursillo Weekend was held Nov. 20-23, 2025 at Pinecrest Camp, will it cost? There is a cost, ways: the curiosity will be heightened, or, the mild Fredericktown, MO, assisted by Deacon Al Stoverink and Fr. Daniel Belken. (Submitted photo) but the amount is low, and confusion being unpleasant, the inquiry will shut no one is ever prevented down immediately. There is also the probability from making a Cursillo that the person making the Cursillo invitation isn’t The short course in Christianity brings to the because he or she can’t afford it. If someone wants, or pronouncing the word correctly since he or she only Christian on the weekend, through an awakening, or needs, to go for free, that’s not a problem, and none speaks English. That’s why the above headline is a a reigniting of the indwelling Holy Spirit, a desire for of the other candidates on the weekend will know phonetic pronunciation of the word. Christ Jesus. There hasn’t been a person born who whether or not someone has dropped a check in the The first difficulty has not yet been surmounted, doesn’t have in his heart a desire to wholly give himself however, because, since it’s not an English word, I have basket. By the point that the money-talk is given, no to someone or something. And there isn’t another one will care because the Holy Spirit who dwells within to tell you what it means before I can tell you what it is. person or thing who can satisfy that desire other than us all will have filled them with Himself. With Cursillo, Jesus Christ, because he’s the only human person who however, you are getting yourself into something. We WHAT THE WORD MEANS is God. He is the All: all that anyone can be and all that are all into something, or we want to be into something, Someone with even a basic facility with Spanish would anyone can want. He is the All in all. sometimes anything other than what we are already know that Cursillo is a type of course—as in something What Cursillo gives to the Christian who makes the into. to study and learn. They would also know that it’s a weekend is a method to live for Him and in Him. More particular kind of course, a little one, a short one. So, The first question we ask as we enter the world and about that method in the next article. ©TM they aren’t being invited to make a large investment begin acquiring a language is “what?” The first question of their time since Cursillo isn’t going to extend over after we have begun talking and crawling is “what do A retired priest of the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau, a semester. Nor is it like one of the usual Bible, or I want?” We cannot say at what age we arrive at the Fr. John Braun serves as the Spiritual Advisor for Southern catechetical studies that extend over weeks or even answer. Some arrive early, some late: “I want God.” And Missouri Cursillo. He resides in Cape Girardeau. months. for a Christian, the God we want is Jesus Christ.
ADULT FAITH/DIOCESAN NEWS
September 11, 2026
The Mirror 7
The Biblical Roots of World Mission Sunday
By Michael Mitchell, TPMS
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any Catholics think of World Mission Sunday as a modern Church initiative. In one sense, this is true: this Oct. 18, 2026, we are celebrating it for the 100th time. But in reality, there are profound Biblical roots for this Catholic day of worldwide prayer and sacrifice! The New Testament shows us that, far from being a modern invention, the practice of supporting distant Christian communities in places where the Church is just getting her start or is struggling due to poverty or persecution goes back all the way to the apostolic age. The early Church had a strong missionary zeal and dynamism. The Church was new, and everyone was involved in spreading the gift of the faith and in caring for their new spiritual brothers and sisters. The Acts of the Apostles and the New Testament Letters show that the Church was full of missionary disciples being sent out and returning. We see how missionary preparations were made, plans drawn up, collections taken and sent, missionaries appointed, and prayers to God offered for the success of the mission. Though still small, the first Christians were inspired by the global Church of the mission Christ had given them! Their hearts beat as one. They were One in Christ, United in Mission, the very theme chosen by Pope Leo XIV for this year’s World Mission Sunday.
Funding the Mission to Evangelize
Long before Catholics would come to place envelopes into a World Mission Sunday collection basket or give Online or via a QR code, St. Paul was organizing
a missionary appeal of his own. It was a coordinated effort to gather funds to help the Church in Jerusalem. The Church in Jerusalem held an obviously special place as the mother Church of Christians, yet it was also financially strained and subject to persecution. St. Paul took it upon himself to organize a deliberate and intentional collection among the Gentile churches he had helped establish to care for their brothers and sisters in need. Paul was asking the younger Churches to help their “mother Church” in Jerusalem. Likewise, today, that type of solidarity continues: not only do Churches with material means contribute to the Churches across the globe weighed down by economic poverty, but many mission churches are themselves beginning to send missionaries throughout the world, reminding us that the Gospel is always received and shared in return. In his First Letter to the Corinthians, St. Paul instructs the faithful to set aside and save whatever they can afford on Sunday for the collection for the holy ones in Jerusalem (16:1–4). In his Second Letter to the Corinthians, he speaks more extensively about the spiritual significance of this act, emphasizing cheerful generosity, unity, and fraternal love (Chapters 8–9). To the Romans, he explains that this collection is not merely charity, but a kind of debt of spiritual gratitude: those who have received the Gospel willingly share their
ATTENTION: CATHOLIC MEN
You are invited to the Southeast Missouri...
Wednesday, Sept. 23 | 6:30-9:00 pm Saint Michael The Archangel, Fredericktown, MO
An evening of Adoration, Confession, & a Manly Meal with discussion to follow. To help plan for food, please RSVP to SEMOCatholicManNight@gmail.com ‘SEMO Catholic Man Night’ on Facebook or text to 573-275-5214
material goods in return (15:25–27). What emerges from these passages is a vision of the Church as one body. The Christian communities, while distant and scattered, were united in a single mission: to spread the Gospel to all nations and to help each other live in love as Christ commanded. St. Paul’s letters show us that the first Christians were eager to support the work of evangelization and care for the growth of their brothers and sisters in faith. They were excited to receive and share news of the goings-on within the nascent churches, and to help each other according to their abilities and needs.
World Mission Sunday, Oct. 18
World Mission Sunday stands firmly within this biblical tradition. Celebrated each year on the second-to-last Sunday in October, it invites Catholics across the globe to share in the Church’s missionary vocation by offering prayers, sacrifices, and financial support for mission territories where the Gospel is
being proclaimed for the first time, or is still young, and where resources are scarce. World Mission Sunday, therefore, is not principally a day to ask for prayers and financial support. It is an invitation to participate in the Church’s mission in a concrete way. While not all are called to travel to distant lands, all are called to support the mission of evangelization. Through prayer, sacrifice, and financial assistance, the faithful become coworkers in the spread of the Gospel and the building up of the Church. Rooted in Scripture and sustained by tradition, this annual observance continues the work begun by St. Paul and the apostles. It is an invitation to each of us to take our indispensable place within the great mission of the Church, with trust that through our collective efforts, Christ’s command to proclaim the Gospel to every people and person will be fulfilled. ©TM Michael Mitchell, TPMS, serves as USA World Mission Sunday Director.
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Find more information about the Eucharistic Rosary Congress at https:// RosaryCongressUSA.org
DIOCESAN NEWS/ADVERTISING
A Eucharistic Rosary Congress will be held at Saint Francis Medical Center Chapel, Cape Girardeau, Oct. 4-9, 2026 (24 hours a day for seven days). The Eucharistic Rosary Congress is seven days and nights of continuous Eucharistic Adoration in which the Holy Rosary is prayed aloud at the top of every hour, day and night, without interruption. Hosted in a parish or diocese, it is a sustained act of communal prayer before Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament, offered for the conversion of sinners, the consecration of our nation, and the triumph of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. If you would like to sign up for an hour of adoration, lead or participate in the rosary at the top of the hour, please contact Donna Anderson at andersondl@ charter.net.
September 11, 2026
DIOCESAN NEWS
September 11, 2026
OBITUARY // Rita Linhardt Columbia, MO
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ita Linhardt, age 74, of Loose Creek, MO, passed away peacefully on Wed., Sept. 9, 2026, at University of Missouri Hospital and Clinics, in Columbia. Linhardt was a lobbyist for the Missouri Catholic Conference (MCC) from 1988 until her retirement in 2022. Linhardt was born on Aug. 16, 1952, in Jefferson City, a daughter to the late Clement and Marie (Oldelehr) Kliethermes. She was a 1970 graduate of Fatima High School and continued her education at Lincoln University in Jefferson City, with a Bachelor of Science Degree to teach social studies, speech, and physical education. She spent 13 years teaching in schools in Linn, Rolla, Vienna, and Immaculate Conception School. In 1988, Linhardt then went to work for the Missouri Catholic Conference where she advocated for social justice issues and later retired after 34 years of service. “For decades, she was the MCC’s go-to voice on criminal justice issues, bringing wisdom, compassion, and a steady presence to difficult issues,” the MCC stated in a release to diocesan media on the occasion of her death. On Oct. 24, 1998, she was united in marriage to Dwight Linhardt in Immaculate Conception Catholic
her, Linhardt treasured the time spent Church in Loose with those she Creek, MO. loved and the Dwight survives memories they at their home. made together Linhardt along the way. was a member Linhardt of Immaculate was incredibly Conception talented with Catholic Church, her hands and in Loose Creek, particularly the St. Ann enjoyed sewing Sodality, and FORMER MCC LOBBYIST DIES—Sister Helen and embroidery. the Willing Prejean,CSJ, is pictured with Rita Linhardt during She also enjoyed Workers Club, her tenure at the Missouri Catholic Conference baking, and her and volunteered family and friends her time with the (MCC), where she served as a lobbyist from 1988 until her retirement in 2022. For decades, Linhardt particularly loved Good Shepherd was the MCC’s go-to voice on criminal justice issues, her pumpkin Food Pantry and muffins. Calvary Gift Shop. including the use of the death penalty, bringing Above Her willingness to wisdom, compassion, and a steady presence to difficult issues. (Photo courtesy of the MCC archives) everything else, serve others was Linhardt was a simply part of who devoted wife and a fantastic mother. she was. Her family was the center of her life, Linhardt was a strong, and she especially cherished being a hardworking woman with an outgoing personality and genuine love for people. grandmother. She will be remembered for her strength, her faith, her She enjoyed visiting with others. She hardworking spirit, and the kindness loved browsing antique shops, reading, and tending to her flowers. She also had she showed to those around her. She a love for traveling, especially alongside lived a life centered around family, service, and caring for others, leaving Dwight, whether they were visiting behind countless memories and legacy family, seeing her son in California, of love that will continue through the honeymooning in Tennessee, or generations of her family. exploring places such as Texas, Linhardt is survived by her Iowa, Lake Tahoe, and many other destinations. Wherever her travels took husband of 28 years, Dwight; children,
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he Church celebrates the 800th anniversary of St. Francis of Assisi’s entry into eternal life. During this Jubilee Year, the faithful of our Diocese are encouraged to seek spiritual conversion through prayer and pilgrimage. How to participate: - Visit a designated Franciscan pilgrimage site in our Diocese. - Pray for the Holy Father’s intentions. - Receive the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Communion. In the Diocese of Springfield–Cape Girardeau, the following parish and chapels, named in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, will serve as pilgrimage sites until the close of the Jubilee Year on January 10, 2027: • • •
St. Francis of Assisi Chapel, inside Saint Francis Medical Center, Cape Girardeau St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, Nixa, MO St. Francis Chapel, Mercy Mountain View Hospital, Mountain View, MO
A plenary indulgence is a heavenly remedy, offered in God’s abundant mercy and obtained through indulgenced acts of piety, which offers total remission of the temporal punishment for our past sins, namely time in purgatory. To obtain the plenary indulgence during the Jubilee Year of Saint Francis (January 10, 2026 - January 10, 2027): 1. With a spirit detached from sin, make a 2. Offer prayers for the intentions of the Holy Father Pope Leo XIV. pilgrimage to a parish named for St. Francis of Assisi. While there, devote some time to prayer, including the following prayers and invocations: 3. Receive the Eucharist, ideally within the same day but at least x1 Our Father within several days before or x1 Apostles Creed after making your pilgrimage. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us. St. Francis of Assisi, pray for us. St. Clare, pray for us. 4. Make a sacramental confession within several days before or All you holy men and women after making your pilgrimage. of the Franciscan Family, pray for us.
The Mirror 9 Bret Kliethermes (Becky) of O’Fallon, MO, Joshua Kliethermes of Loose Creek, MO, Amy Phillips of Blue Springs, MO, and Richard Linhardt (Chrissy) of Jefferson City, MO; seven grandchildren, Madeline, Olivia, Jake, and Scarlet Kliethermes, Lydia Phillips, Madison and Lauren Linhardt; sisters, Marian Kremer (Luke) and Joan Backes (Herbert), both of Loose Creek; brothers, Leon Kliethermes (Denise) of Taos, MO, and Allen Kliethermes (Eva) of Erie, CO; sister-in-law, Edna Kliethermes of Linn, MO; and numerous nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents, Clem and Marie Kliethermes; brothers, James Kliethermes and David Kliethermes; and her nephew Michael Kremer. Visitation will be held from 2-5 p.m., on Sun., Sept. 13, 2026, in Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, in Loose Creek. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Mon., Sept. 14, 2026, in Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Loose Creek, with Rev. William Debo as the Celebrant. Interment will be held in the Immaculate Conception Parish Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Gregorian Masses in her memory or to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Loose Creek. Arrangements are under the direction of Morton Chapel in Linn. www.mortonchapel.com. ©TM
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MCC MESSENGER
September 11, 2026
September 11, 2026
MCC MESSENGER
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MCC MESSENGER
September 11, 2026
September 11, 2026
MCC MESSENGER
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DIOCESAN NEWS/ADVERTISING
September 11, 2026
JOIN MEN & WOMEN WHO PRAY & FAST FOR OUR PRIESTS In these challenging times, our priests require our spiritual support more than ever. We invite you to become part of a dedicated group of men and women committed to interceding on behalf of our parish leadership. The Apostolate is a personal commitment to independent devotion; you are free to select the day, time, and location that best suit your schedule. The objective is to ensure that every day of the week is dedicated to prayer and fasting. • Seven Sisters (Women): Commit to praying one Holy Hour on a designated day of the week for their parish priest. • Fasting Brothers (Men): Commit to offering a fast Monday thru Saturday for their parish priest. • Couples: Join together to double the spiritual impact for our parish priests.