September 25, 2026
Called to serve: Deacon Howard Mohn 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 T H I R D I N T H E S E R I E S …
laying his hands on me. This was a culmination of experiences starting before the entrance, when my spiritual director of 40 years firmly grounded me by reminding me that I was entering as a schmuck and would be leaving as an ordained schmuck, but a schmuck, nonetheless. Lying face down on the floor while the congregation invoked the intercessions of the saints was also significant. Having my formation director, Deacon Mike Fritz, vest me was also a wonderful moment.
By Paula Wright
Vol. LXII, No. 12
One Church, East to West: Loving Jesus, Serving Jesus, Sharing Jesus
DIOCESE OF SPRINGFIELD—CAPE GIRARDEAU, MISSOURI
Joplin, MO
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ive men were ordained permanent deacons for the Diocese of SpringfieldCape Girardeau on Sat., July 25. One of those men is Deacon Howard Mohn, who serves Holy Trinity Parish, Marshfield. His journey to the altar was shaped by a call first heard years ago with a renewed sense of discernment after moving to southwest Missouri. For him, the diaconate is about service and supporting others What could you share through prayer. He about discerning your shares that his greatest DEACON HOWARD MOHN ORDAINED JULY 25—Deacon Howard Mohn who will serve Holy Trinity call to the Diaconate? challenge during Parish, Marshfield, was ordained as a permanent deacon in St. Mary Catholic Church, in Joplin, by The I discerned my calling formation was not Most Rev. Edward M. Rice, on Saturday morning, July 25, in the presence of his wife, Lisa Mohn, area early on, while still in academic, but learning clergy, and many joyful faithful. (Photo by Brian Landreth/The Mirror) the Army. However, to conform his own I also discerned that my vocation to will to Christ’s, a lesson he now hopes to of Science in Animal Science/Beef my wife and five young children was live out through his diaconal ministry Cattle Production and a master’s degree more important at that time. Moving to with the people of God. in computer science. He southwest Missouri and Deacon Mohn and his wife, Lisa, is a retired Army officer, experiencing the challenges have three daughters, two sons, three intelligence specialist, and of ministering to a small sons-in-law, two daughters-in-law, and May we encourage computer scientist. flock spread over the five grandchildren. He holds a Bachelor all the People of God “After pursuing multiple southern third of Missouri to share the love of career paths, I have finally re-awakened my calling. Christ not only with figured out what I want to do each other, but with when I grow up: Serve the What was the formation our neighbor. people of God as best I can and process like for you? share the love of Jesus Christ.” If formation were to be measured by academics, Please share impactful then I would have had no challenges. My moment of your ordination. My greatest memory was Bishop Rice
Continued on page 5...
From Lisa Mohn... What are your memories from the ordination? The moments when Bishop would place his hands on the candidates. It felt very touching to me. How did you prepare for this new calling for your husband? I just tried to support him as he went through it.
The next issue of The Mirror will be October 9, 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.
LAYING ON OF HANDS & PRAYER OF ORDINATION—Howard Mohn knelt before Bishop Edward M. Rice while the bishop laid hands on his head and prayed the Prayer of Ordination, in which he asked God to dedicate the deacon to service at the altar and to God’s people. Deacon Mohn serves in Holy Trinity Parish, Marshfield, and was ordained a permanent deacon on July 25 in St. Mary Catholic Church, Joplin. (Photo by Brian Landreth/The Mirror)
What are you looking forward to most as your husband becomes a deacon? Special moments. He was able to baptize our newest grandchild the next morning [after his ordination]. That was so very special. What parish or other Church activities are of interest to you? I’m in our choir. I participate in our
LITURGY OF THE WORD—Lisa Mohn served as a reader during the liturgy ordaining her husband, Howard, to the Permanent Diaconate on Saturday morning, July 25, in St. Mary Catholic Church, Joplin. Bishop Edward M. Rice was the principal celebrant. (Photo by Brian Landreth/The Mirror) PCCW when I’m available. I send monthly birthday and anniversary cards to everyone in our parish. And I have just joined a Cursillo team as a staff member. ©TM
2 The Mirror
COLUMN/ADVERTISING
COME, AND YOU WILL SEE Bp. Edward M. Rice
O
n August 10, Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey signed a bill into law, “An Act Prioritizing Patient Access to Care.” In doing so Healy, a Catholic, established a new law allowing physicians to perform abortions after 24 weeks of pregnancy if in their “professional judgment” it is medically necessary. The Catholic Bishops of Massachusetts stated, “The elimination of any legal restraint on late-term abortion is a radical measure which is gravely immoral.” The bill also eliminates the requirement that late-term abortions be performed in a hospital setting, allowing licensed physicians to provide abortions in other eligible health care and treatment centers. While Massachusetts has some of the most permissive abortion laws in the nation, if Amendment 3 fails in Missouri, we won’t be much different than Massachusetts. I ask every Catholic to consider the ramifications of Amendment 3. A “YES” vote reinstates basic healthcare measures for women; affirms and strengthens parents’ rights regarding sex-change surgeries and sterilizing hormones; bans fetal organ harvesting, limits taxpayer funding of abortion, and bans abortion except in rare circumstances of up to 12 weeks for rape, incest, fatal fetal anomalies, or to save the life of the mother. This is not an outrageous amendment. It is a commonsense amendment but unfortunately in our world, common sense is not too common. I realize that
September 25, 2026
Issues of life & dignity under attack abortion is an emotional issue, but it to the “unconscionable situation of the should be because we’re talking about migrants, immigrants, and refugees in human life. the United States,” stating that this situation “cries I recently heard a UNFORTUNATELY out to all of us women and commercial for a new IN OUR WORLD, men of Christian faith medicine called “Rexulti,” COMMON SENSE to speak up for them and to treat depression. The IS NOT TOO COMMON. to reach out to them as warning label states Jesus, the Christ of us all, “Before taking Rexulti, would do.” I found her words to be quite tell your healthcare provider about striking. Living in Missouri, a state that all of your medical conditions, does not border another country, we including if “you are pregnant or may not feel the impact of immigration plan to become pregnant. Rexulti issues as they are not at our doorstep. may harm your unborn baby.” If the Pharmaceutical companies acknowledge But we have had people detained and deported in our diocese and I have seen the “unborn baby,” what is wrong with the separation of families firsthand. the medical profession? Between undergrad and prerequisite studies, four Being in the Midwest does not give us permission to turn the other way and years of medical school, three to seven ignore the issue. And, as a broader issue, years of residency training, depending could we not do better in treating those on the field of study, and taking the seeking a better life? Can we secure our board examination, no one told them national borders without sacrificing that what is growing inside the womb of human decency, dignity, and respect? To the mother is not merely a BLOB of cells but an “unborn” baby? What is the need for an OB/GYN if it is not human? If it is just a blob of cells, why do pregnant women need prenatal care? So much for “professional judgment.” If it is a baby when you want it to be and if it’s not a baby when you don’t want it to be, then we are indeed in a moral decline. Vote YES on Amendment 3!
ignore this issue is to ignore the Gospel; “I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” (Mt 25:35); “As you did it to one of the least of my brothers you did it to me.” (Mt. 25: 40); “Love does no wrong to the neighbor,” (Romans 13:10). Of course, the parable of the Good Samaritan it’s priceless in this regard, “and who is my neighbor?” (Luke 10:25-37). May our hearts never turn cold, may we never look away, from the plight of the poor, the immigrant, the widow, and orphan.
O Sacrament Most Holy, O Sacrament Divine, all praise and all thanksgiving be every moment Thine. ©TM
DIGNITY OF THE HUMAN PERSON
Now, on to another hot-button issue— immigration. I recently received a letter from a religious sister referring
A NOT H E R WA LK T H RO U G H :
‘Walking Together’ By Bishop Emeritus John J. Leibrecht
Before his retirement in 2008 as the Fifth Bishop of the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau, Bishop John Leibrecht wrote a standing column in The Mirror entitled, “Walking Together.” At the end of each article, Bp. Leibrecht would normally share a funny story referencing his travels to the schools, or time with friends, family, or other bishops. The Mirror has decided to share a few of these in an ongoing series entitled, “Another walk through: ‘Walking Together.’” We hope you enjoy them.
December 15, 1995 “Mom,” the boy yelled, “Arnold broke a window.” Mom
FIRST FRIDAY MASS for VOCATIONS
December 22, 1995 After Mass, mom and dad pointed out the manger scene
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asked, “How did it happen?” He replied, “I threw a rock at him and he ducked.”
to their small son, identifying each of the figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. When the parents began chatting with others at the front of church, the boy began sharing with a little girl what he had just learned. “And she,” he said while pointing to the figure and kneeling beside the manger, “is Mary Christmas!”
January 5, 1996 According to the Bible’s Book of Genesis, God created
everything else before creating human beings. A high school student wondered aloud if God feared the possible overabundance of advice from Adam and Eve about how creation could be accomplished.
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 Springfield Catholic High School, Springfield Fri., Nov. 6 St. Agnes Cathedral, Springfield
9:10 am
5:30 pm
September 25, 2026
The Mirror 3
DIOCESAN NEWS/ADVERTISING
FIRST THEOLOGY OF THE BODY CONFERENCE DRAWS OVER 50 Cape Girardeau, MO
T 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 information contact: Karen@proximotravel.com. To register call 855-842-8001 or at www.proximotravel.com.
he Theology of the Body Conference was held in the St. John Henry Newman Center on the campus of Southeast Missouri State University for the first-time in Cape Girardeau on September 12-13. Over 50 participants came from across Missouri from Kansas City to St. Louis, from West Plains, to Jackson. Participants had a wonderful weekend of prayer—Mass and adoration, talks on the human person, love, marriage, and the Sacraments based on the writings of Pope St. John Paul II’s, “Theology of the Body,” and shared wonderful meals together in times of community. The theme of the conference was God’s plan for human love and human sexuality with speakers Genevieve Scherer, Deacon Alvin Stoeverink, who spoke
SPEAKER—Deacon Tom Schumer spoke on “The Grace of Unitivie Love,” during the Theology of the Body conference held in the St. John Henry Newman Center, in Cape Girardeau, Sept. 12-13. (The Mirror) on “Life in Grace: Intimacy with the Bridegroom;” Deacon Thomas Schumer, whose presentation was “The Grace of Unitive Love,” and Nicholas Koeppel, who lead discussions on the overview of Theology of the Body.” ©TM
PRAYER & LEARNING—The Theology of the Body Conference was held in the St. John Henry Newman Center on the campus of Southeast Missouri State University for the first-time in Cape Girardeau on Sept. 12-13. Over 50 participants had a wonderful weekend of prayer—Mass and adoration, talks on the human person, love, marriage, and the Sacraments based on the writings of Pope St. John Paul II’s, “Theology of the Body.” (The Mirror)
by Bishop Emeritus John J. Leibrecht
PRIEST:
Fr. Glenn Eftink, Oct. 1, 33 yrs.
4 The Mirror
DIOCESAN NEWS
MEET OUR SEMINARIANS
In search for his identity,
Brock Hulshof discovers God’s call By Paula Wright
F
or first-year seminarian Brock Hulshof, discerning a call to the priesthood began with a search for something he could not quite name. As a college student at the University of Missouri-Columbia, Hulshof was involved in numerous organizations, service projects, and activities connected to the Catholic Church. While each was good in itself, he eventually realized he was using those activities to define himself. “The God-nod that allowed me to hear the Lord’s voice happened in the first semester of my junior year,” Hulshof said. “I was involved in many different organizations across campus that were all good, philanthropic, service-oriented, or helping out in the local Catholic Church. Still, I was doing all these activities: 1) to be seen as involved in all the organizations, and 2) to fill all my time and to have a place in the world that I could stake my identity on. As all of these things I was involved in were wrapping up, and I was going through a crisis of identity, I reached a point where I didn’t know who I was anymore.” A native of Benton, MO, Hulshof is the son of Patrick and Robin Hulshof and member of St. Augustine Parish, in Kelso. He is the second of four children, with one sister, Madeline, and two brothers, Parker and Augustus. “I signed up for SEEK, a weeklong Catholic Conference held in Salt Lake City, Utah. I saw a joy in my peers at the conference that I had been trying to create in myself and it became clear to me that they had given their hearts to our Lord,” Hulshof said. “From there, I had the opportunity to attend a FOCUS (Fellowship of Catholic University Students) retreat called, ‘The Father’s House,’ based on the parable of the prodigal son. In that retreat, I experienced the Father’s love for me, and at the end of the retreat, I was asked by a priest, Fr. Andrew Auer, whom I credit with much of the help in discovering God’s call in my heart to the seminary, he said, ‘Can your big heart be filled by the farm, a wife, or a job? Your heart can only be filled by the love of Jesus Christ.’ From that moment, God put on my heart that I
must look into what the seminary and priesthood could look like for me. Not until I gave my heart up and let God the Father love me just as I am, not as what I wish I was or what others think of me as, but just as He created me, was I able to see how the Lord could call me to where I am now.” A graduate of Cape Girardeau’s Notre Dame Regional High School, Hulshof earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Mizzou in business administrationmanagement with a minor in entrepreneurship and innovation management. Before entering seminary in Conception Seminary College, he completed an internship with The Catholic Center, assisting with the Diocesan Eucharistic Congress, Quo Vadis Vocation Discernment Retreat, and other projects involving the offices of Evangelization, Youth Ministry, Vocations, Communications, and Worship. Hulshof ’s confirmation saint is St. John the Evangelist, and his favorite gospel is the Gospel of John and the Epistles of St. John the Evangelist. Hulshof ’s spiritual life is rooted in prayer, particularly intercessory prayer, silent contemplative prayer during adoration, and praise and worship. Among his favorite prayers are the Litany of Trust, Litany of Humility, and Prayer of Abandonment. He also has a deep devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, admiring her complete fidelity to God’s will. “She said ‘yes’ to the Lord’s plan from the very beginning and never ceased to follow the plan that the Angel Gabriel gave to her until the end of her life!” he said. “Her love for Jesus and faith in His divinity, which led her to follow him all the way to the cross, is one of many ways I try to imitate her obedience to God’s will.” A devotion close to his heart is The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus.
“The Sacred Heart to me is the visible sign of the agape self-giving love that our Lord Jesus Christ wants to pour out onto and into all of our hearts!” Hulshof said. He also finds inspiration in St. Maximillan Kolbe: “He was a priest during the Nazi invasion and was taken to Auschwitz, and I have watched a movie about his time in the nazi prison camps. It is called ‘Triumph of the Heart,’ and it shows him in the starvation bunker ministering to the other men with whom he was going to die, and how he shared the love of Jesus through respecting their dignity until the end of their lives. …He always administered to the heart!” When not reading the Bible, his favorite books include, He Leadeth Me, by Fr. Walter J. Ciszek and Be Healed, by Dr. Bob Schuchts. He also enjoys donuts, eating out at Qdoba, and HULSHOF listening to Praise and Worship music. Asked about his favorite sports team, “I only really watch the Olympics when it’s on so TEAM USA!” His favorite vacation spot? “Anywhere with my family!” Asked if he has any special talents or hobbies, “No special gifts but a gift of this life is enough for me. I enjoy laughing, most of all, and having genuine conversations with my dear friends. Sharing the highs and lows, and, most importantly, the God-nods about how God is working in each other’s lives. For me, the gift of friendship and spending quality time beats any hobby I could do by myself. Life is best done with those whom you love!”
COURS E ST UDY & F ORMAT ION
Launching his first year at Conception Seminary College, Hulshof is taking 12 credit hours that include Old Testament Literature, Christian Living and Theology, Elementary Latin I, and Understanding Music. He also plays volleyball for the seminary and serves as the class representative for first-year seminarians on the student council. While his academic formation is important, Hulshof is
September 25, 2026
especially grateful for the opportunity to grow in every dimension of his life. “I am looking forward to being in an institution (Conception Seminary College) that looks at all the parts a person here in school: human, spiritual, intellectual, and pastoral,” he said, “and works to help me grow in great self-knowledge so I can better serve those around me.” For Hulshof, the example of priests and other faithful witnesses has helped shape his own understanding of priestly service. He points especially to Bishop Edward Rice, whom he has had the opportunity to accompany at various diocesan events and projects. “His ability to see and hear everyone, no matter the drive and how much it might be out of his way, his effort to be with his people has been a great example of what a humble servant looks like,” Hulshof said. As he begins his seminary formation, Hulshof is deeply aware that he does not make this journey alone. He credits the prayers and support of the faithful of the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau as an essential part of his vocation. “Having the prayer and support of the diocese means so much. I am only here because of the people who have sacrificed their time and prayed for me. My Nannie (grandma) prays a rosary every day for me, and every time I call her, she tells me, and I never forget to thank her because she has offered her prayers as the water to grow the seed of vocation in my life,” Hulshof said. “So, to all those who make the sacrifice for my brother seminarians and me, in prayer and also financially, we are so undeserving but all the more grateful!” As he looks toward the future, Hulshof hopes his vocation will ultimately point others toward the love and mercy of Jesus Christ. His message to others is simple: “He loves you.” Hulshof encourages others to recognize that Christ desires a personal relationship with each person. “Jesus is your friend, and He has laid His life down for YOU,” he said. For young people who may sense a call to the priesthood or religious life, Hulshof offers equally simple advice: “Be not afraid! Pray about it and talk to your priest and parents!” he said. “God works in light, not darkness, so if there are thoughts of the priesthood in the depths of your heart, bring them to the light so that the Lord can work miracles in you!” ©TM
DEACON HOWARD MOHN continued from page 1
KYLE HATHCOCK COMMENDED STUDENT IN 2027 NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
challenges were in personal growth and in conforming my own will to Christ’s. What are you most looking forward to as a deacon? Service. Service to the people of God through bringing Holy Communion to the home bound and nursing home residents. Service to those who are interested in learning more about the Catholic Church and possibly joining it through OCIA. Service to the parish in the liturgy and in supporting others through prayer. What ministries are of Interest to you? Bringing Holy Communion to the homebound and those in nursing homes, plus preparing adults to enter the Church through OCIA. I am also helping engaged couples prepare for the Sacrament of Matrimony. What will your role be in the diocesan mission to ‘Growing in Holiness, Forming Intentional Disciples, and Being Sent to Witness’? First, an intentional prayer life centered on the Eucharist. The Love of Christ must prevail through us. I adhere to the Cursillo® technique: Make a friend. Be a friend. Bring that friend to Christ.
Benton—St. Denis Parish will have its
St. Denis Day Dinner, Sun., Oct. 11, 10:30am-1pm, in the parish center. Kettle beef, chicken & dumplings, chicken & dressing, sweet potatoes, buttered potatoes, green beans, slaw & dessert. Cost: $15-adults; $7-children, ages 6-12 yrs.; under age 5-free. Dine in or Carryout available.
Cape Girardeau—Join CCSOMO on
Sat., Nov. 7, in the Drury Plaza Hotel & Conference Center, for the 2026 LifeHouse Gala: Stetsons & Stilettos! Enjoy an evening of dinner, live entertainment and much more, with all proceeds directly supporting mothers and babies in need and the impactful work of LifeHouse in Cape Girardeau. Even if you can’t attend, there are ways to get involved, including bidding on silent auction items! For additional information, go to: https://ccsomo.org/ get-involved-events/.
Carthage—The Cursillo Movement
The Mirror 5
DIOCESAN NEWS/ADVERTISING
September 25, 2026
pursues two purposes or objectives. The immediate purpose is the on-going and total conversion of the person/Christian. The end purpose is to vertebrae Christianity in society by means of these persons who live what is fundamental
Springfield
S
pringfield Catholic High School recently announced Kyle Hathcock as a 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program recipient. Hathcock will join the ranks of some 34,000 Commended Students throughout the US being recognized for their exceptional academic promise. Although he will not continue in the 2027 competition for National Merit Scholarship awards, Commended Students placed among the top 50,000
students who took the 2025 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/ NMSQT). HATHCOCK “Recognizing these students, as well as the role of their schools in their academic development, is vital to the advancement of educational excellence in our nation,” said a spokesperson for the NMSC. ©TM
GENUFLECTION—Wife Lisa Mohn (far right) reacted as her husband Howard Mohn genuflected at the altar during the Entrance Procession of the July 25 liturgy in St. Mary Catholic Church, Joplin, at which he would be ordained a permanent deacon. (Photo by Brian Landreth/The Mirror)
I think we’re in a cycle of maintenance to mission—it never ends. With God’s help, the spiral of sanctity and sharing the love of Christ keeps going higher and higher. ©TM
ANNOUNCEMENTS
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, you may also contact Dale Gerecke at (573) 450-3335 or dale@gereckelaw.com.
Kimberling City—Our Lady of the Cove Catholic Church will have its Fall Garage Sale, Fri., Oct. 9, 8am-3pm & Sat., Oct. 10, 8am-noon. Clothing, furniture, appliances, tools, and much more! For more information, call the church office at (417) 739-4700.
Glennon—St. Anthony 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, located at 515 E. Washington St. Fried and/or baked fish, fries, hush puppies, green beans, slaw, and a tasty dessert. Cost: $12-adults, $7-children, ages 6-12yrs.; under age 5-free.
will have its Annual Fall Dinner, Sun., Oct. 11, 11am-1:30pm, in the Glennon Parish Hall. Kettle beef, dumplings, dressing, and all the trimmings, dessert & drinks included. Cost: Adults-$15; children (6-12 yrs.)-$8; Under age 5-free.
Jackson—The Knights of Columbus will
have its Friday Fish Fry, Fri., Oct. 16, 4:30-7pm, in the lower KC hall. Fish, fried chicken, fries, hushpuppies, slaw, mac & cheese. Cost: $15.
Jackson—The Options for Women’s
14th Annual Banquet, “Steps of Courage,” will be held Tue., Oct. 13. Doors open at 5pm, dinner 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 the ministry is truly appreciated.
Marshfield—Holy Trinity Catholic Church
Salem—You are invited to join the 39th National Life Chain, Sun., Oct. 4, 1-3pm. 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! Meet in the parking lot of Crossroads Center. Signs will be provided. Questions: Contact Margaret, (573) 578-0043. Find more information about Life Chain at: https:// www.lifechain.org/.
Sikeston—STFXCC Grief Support
Ministry, is sponsoring Candles for Life, to honor loved ones during the month of November for All Souls Month. 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 by Sept. 28 to St. Agnes Cathedral, (417) 831-3565.
Springfield—Catholic Campus Ministry
invites you to celebrate 25 years in the O’Reilly Catholic Student Center, Sat., Oct. 17, 2026, with guest speaker and musician Tony Melendez. The evening begins with a Social Hour at 6pm, and dinner at 7pm. Find more information and buy tickets at https://www.ccm847. org/25gala.
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. 12 September 25, 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/NATIONAL NEWS
September 25, 2026
Prayers for migrants, immigrants, refugees echo through Missouri Capitol’s rotunda By Jay Nies
“M
Multi-lingual prayers rise from the people
Jefferson City, MO
y journey reminds me that we are all God’s children and that we need one another as we walk together toward eternal life.” Felicia Annunoby’s words echoed off granite walls etched with Scripture verses and ceiling panels emblazoned with images of past immigrants to Missouri hard at work. “By God’s grace and with persistent prayer and the support of my faith community, I was able to overcome the challenges I faced as an immigrant,” said Annunoby, a member of St. Peter Parish, in Jefferson City. She was one of several people who spoke of their immigrant experiences during a “Prayer and Witness to Stand with Migrants” event in the rotunda of the Missouri Capitol. The Jefferson City Diocese and Catholic Charities of Central and Northern Missouri co-sponsored the peaceful, nonpartisan prayer service Aug. 15, the feast of the Assumption. About 300 people gathered in the Capitol with Bishop Ralph B. O’Donnell, of Jefferson City, and Fr. Scott Jones, a priest representative of St. Louis Archbishop Mitchell T. Rozanski, who had intended on being at the event but awoke sick that morning. In her remarks, Anunoby, a registered nurse, recounted that when she was young and vulnerable she traveled from her home country of Nigeria to find work in the United
MISSOURI STATE CAPITOL—Hundreds of people join Bishop Ralph B. O’Donnell of Jefferson City, MO, in prayer for migrants, immigrants, and refugees in the rotunda of the Missouri Capitol in Jefferson City Aug. 15, 2026. (OSV News photo/Dan Bernskoetter Photography, courtesy Diocese of Jefferson City) Kingdom. During difficult times, “I held firmly to my faith, which sustained me,” she said. Her journey led her to the US in 1966, where she endured emotional and verbal abuse in an arranged marriage marred by addiction. Local service agencies helped her set out on her own. She went on to pass her nursing board exam and earn a bachelor of science degree in nursing and two master’s degrees. She later reconciled with her late husband, and they raised their children together. Thirty years ago, she joined St. Peter Parish. “The parishioners and perpetual Eucharistic adoration became the sanctuary I needed during my struggles, isolation, and loneliness as an immigrant,” she said. The crowd in the rotunda prayed for
strangers to be welcomed, as Anunoby was, with compassion and for the Godgiven dignity of every human person to be upheld from conception to natural death. Father Stephen Jones, vicar general of the diocese and pastor of Cathedral of St. Joseph Parish in Jefferson City, served as emcee. “We honor the many immigrant, migrant and refugee communities whose faith, labor, cultures, and sacrifices have helped shape this nation into what it is today,” said Fr. Jones. He mentioned his own greatgrandparents from Germany who arrived at Galveston Island, TX, in 1871. “All of us have an origin story which has led us to this time and to this place,” he said.
study found that immigrants, legal and ARE THERE DEFENSIBLE REASONS one undocumented, consume 24% less in entitlement benefits than native-born Americans. FOR MASS DEPORTATIONS? By Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio
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OSV News
wo recent Supreme Court decisions have had a great effect on immigration. First, the Supreme Court affirmed that birthright citizenship has been enshrined in the practice of our country from the beginning, and that the 14th Amendment solidified that practice in the Constitution. The second decision, also based on law rather than partisan politics, states that the president has executive power to issue and withdraw Temporary Protected Status (TPS). They also found insufficient evidence that the Trump administration violated the proper procedures in terminating TPS for Haiti and Syria. Unfortunately, it is not the purview of the Supreme Court to advise an administration on what country conditions make a return unreasonable for refugees. But what are the reasons for this program of mass deportation? The administration has presented several reasons, including benefits consumption. However,
And, even more telling is that undocumented immigrants consume 53% less welfare than nativeborn Americans. In general, low-wage earners admitted to the US need assistance given their salary status. In fact, little is given to support these low-wage earners, who are essential to our economy in sectors like construction, agriculture, and health care. The Trump administration also argues that undocumented immigrants are taking jobs that Americans could fill. However, two major studies completed this year agree that the present crackdown has done little to create meaningful benefits for American workers, nor has it created widespread disruptions in the labor market. However, the crackdown has impacted industries, such as agriculture and construction, which depend upon the work of immigrant workers. The impact of mass deportations has yet to be generally felt. However, it seems that we have returned to the racist policies of 1924, when our country closed the door to certain immigrants, namely Southern and Eastern
The people began in the nearby ProtoCathedral of St. Peter by meditating on the sorrowful mysteries of the rosary, which recount Christ’s passion and death. Several people took turns leading the prayers in Igbo, Tagalog, English, Spanish, and Burmese. Marissa Madden-Flores, director of Family and Immigrations Services at Catholic Charities, offered a brief meditation for each sorrowful mystery. The prayers reminded Bishop O’Donnell of how his grandmother, a daughter of immigrants from Germany, would pray the rosary in her native tongue at her kitchen table each morning. “From generation to generation, we learn and carry the faith,” the bishop said. The people prayed quietly before processing in sacred silence to the Capitol. The bishop and priests led the faithful in walking behind the diocese’s Jubilee Cross, built for the Great Jubilee 2000 and containing a relic of the True Cross. Hymns, antiphons, and petitions rose up within the Capitol rotunda. Bishop O’Donnell called upon St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, patron saint of immigrants, to intercede for everyone present. “May we receive through your prayers the grace to open our hearts Continued next page...
Europeans, to preserve the heritage of those whose ancestors were here before the turn of the 19th century. Unfortunately, the Haitian population here on TPS, given the impossibility of returning to a failed nation-state, has become the poster child for this inhuman deportation program. It has been reported that several flights have already returned to Haiti with captives in shackles and with only the clothes on their backs. The moral implications of these ill-conceived mass deportation programs have been brought to our attention by Pope Leo XIV, who reminds us that “human dignity has no passport,” so that it may be protected. Until the American public realizes the drastic mark that will be left on our national conscience and strongly opposes this policy, these deportation programs will continue. The enforcement methods being used, namely traffic stops, workplace raids, courthouse arrests, and illegally obtained data, should concern us all. ©OSV Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio is the retired bishop of the Diocese of Brooklyn, NY. He writes the column “Walking With Migrants” for The Tablet and OSV News.
so that we may provide hospitality for all who come in search of refuge,” he said. Representatives of various communities offered prayers for churches and communities; for unaccompanied minor children; for neighbors, friends, and family members; for migrant workers; for all who have been driven out of their homeland by violence; for government leaders; for people in law enforcement and first responders; and for all who have died while searching for safety and hope. “Strengthen us to recognize Christ in every person we encounter,” Fr. Stephen Jones prayed, “and help us to build a world marked by justice, mercy and peace.” Everyone present prayed the Lord’s Prayer together in his or her own native language. “You love each one of your children regardless of the lands they come from,” Fr.
The Mirror 7
DIOCESAN/NATIONAL NEWS
September 25, 2026 Jones prayed. “We ask that you make our hearts humble and willing to welcome those who knock at our doors.” On the archbishop’s behalf, the priest urged everyone to pray daily for hearts to be open to seeing Christ in every person; for immigrants, migrants and refugees to find safety, hope, justice, and welcome; for wisdom and compassion to guide elected officials, civic leaders and law enforcement; and for this nation to grow in unity, justice, peace, and respect for the dignity of every human life. “Go forth today,” Father Scott Jones proclaimed, “with a simple prayer on your lips: ‘Lord, help me to see you in every person I meet, and make me an instrument of your peace.’” ©OSV Jay Nies is the editor of The Catholic Missourian, in the Diocese of Jefferson City.
WORLD CANNOT REMAIN INDIFFERENT TO SUFFERING OF MIGRANT CHILDREN By OSV News
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Vatican City
ope Leo XIV is calling on the global community to stop treating migration as a mere numbers game and instead prioritize the dignity and human rights of LEBANON AFTERMATH ISRAELI ATTACK—Displaced children look on vulnerable migrant children. In as they ride on the back of a truck loaded with belongings on their way his message for the World Day of to their homes in southern Lebanon, amid a 10-day ceasefire between Migrants and Refugees, Sept. 27, Lebanon and Israel, in Qasmiyeh, southern Lebanon. The Vatican 2026, the pope warned that the published Pope Leo XIV’s message for the World Day of Migrants and suffering of displaced youths does Refugees on Aug. 14, 2026. The message reflects on the theme: “Even not end when they leave home. He Just One of These Children.” World Day of Migrants and Refugees will be highlighted the severe risks child observed Sept. 27. (OSV News photo/Aziz Taher, Reuters) migrants face along transit routes, including human trafficking, armed the global Church must transform welcoming conflict recruitment, and sexual violence. from an abstract concept into regular pastoral Pope Leo urged countries of origin to address practice, reminding the faithful that protecting the root causes forcing families to flee, vulnerable children means safeguarding the while calling on destination nations to offer divine image within them ©OSV protection and welcome. He emphasized that
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
The VIRTUS Protecting God’s Children Safe Environment training for adults is available online.
Preregistration is necessary: If you are a new registrant please go to www.virtus.org and click on “first time registrant” on the left, and follow the prompts to register for Online training. Instructions for the registration process can also be found on the Child and Youth Protection Page of the diocesan Website. www.dioscg.org/wp-content/uploads/How-to-Register-for-a-VIRTUS-withOnline-Option.pdf
Both in-person and online training sessions are for adults only. Before engaging in activities involving minors and/or vulnerable adults, new volunteers or employees are required to complete the VIRTUS Protecting God’s Children training for adults, submit a current Background Disclosure and Authorization Form, and read, sign and submit the annual Code of Conduct, which are available on the VIRTUS Website and the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau Child and Youth Protection Webpage: www.dioscg.org/childyouth-protection/ For more information, please contact the Office of Child and Youth Protection, childandyouthprotection@dioscg.org; or Bill Holtmeyer, billholtmeyer@dioscg.org; or Shelly Ferry, sferry@dioscg.org, (417) 866-0841.
8 The Mirror
NATIONAL NEWS
September 25, 2026
World Mission Sunday is prayerful solidarity for the mission to evangelize all nations By Michael Mitchell, TPMS
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merican Catholics are accustomed to second collections at Mass on Sunday mornings. Many of us often do not really know precisely what the money we contribute to these collections is going to be used for. If the Church endorses it, and the basket is passed, we try to give something. But if we knew more about the collection, its connection to our faith, and its impact, we might want to give more generously. I think that’s definitely the case with regard to the World Mission Sunday collection that will take place this year on October 18, 2026. The World Mission Sunday collection helps the Church spread the Gospel in missionary lands. These are places (1,130 of them to be exact) where the Church basically barely exists, or where she is so young, poor, or persecuted that she cannot support herself in terms of personnel and resources. World Mission Sunday is first and foremost a day of prayerful solidarity for missionaries and mission Churches. But it’s also a day in which we try to help them succeed. World Mission Sunday features the only collection mandated in the Church’s canon law, because it’s essential to the Church’s carrying out the mission Jesus entrusted to us to proclaim the Gospel to all people and nations.
in its planning stages, and the first native priest was What’s raised on World Mission Sunday is used ordained only in 2016. These Catholics are in the to make possible the heroic work of missionary exhilarating but fragile phase of firstbishops, priests, religious sisters, and generation faith. lay catechists who labor, sometimes under threat of death, to share our faith. It helps build churches, seminaries, Distribution of the collection convents, and catechetical centers. It Monsignor Roger Landry, National As of Easter provides for basic needs like transport, Director of The Pontifical Mission Sunday, there food, and shelter. It helps pass on the Societies-USA, helps oversee the are exactly 1,575 faith to children and to their parents. distribution of the World Mission baptized Catholics Sunday collection to these remote places in Mongolia, a that are in need of prayerful solidarity Building the Church from nation of over 3.5 and financial support, making sure every Scratch in Mongolia US Dollar is stretched as far as possible. Nowhere is this reality more vivid than million people. He has highlighted Mongolia as a in a place like Mongolia. This is one of powerful example of why World Mission the youngest Catholic communities on Sunday matters: earth. If you don’t count the occasional forays by missionaries in times long past, Mongolia has “Mongolia is at the frontier of the Church’s only had a stable Catholic community for just over 30 mission. Two thousand years after Christ’s death and years. resurrection, most Mongolians have never heard of Jesus’ saving name, not to mention been exposed to It was in 1992, following the fall of communism, his teaching and had the chance to enter into his life that three Catholic missionary priests arrived from through the Sacraments. In 2024, there were 1,516 Italy. At the time, there were zero Catholics except Catholics; in 2025, 1,549. Today, 1,575. That’s less them. But today, thanks to the hard work of these missionaries, supported in large part by World Mission than converted on Pentecost in Jerusalem and less than most US parishes! It’s an honor to witness and Sunday, about 50 Mongolians a year have become help the courageous Catholics in Mongolia to live out Catholic. As of Easter Sunday, there are exactly 1,575 Jesus’ parable of the mustard seed, starting small but baptized Catholics in a nation of over 3.5 million eventually growing into a large tree where all the birds people. of the air will find refuge!” The Church in Mongolia is Last year, support from US Catholics helped the missionary the Church in Mongolia expand a formation center frontier in the to train catechists and Church workers to bring the fullest sense, faith more effectively throughout their vast country, and most of this as well as a study center where the Christian classics work has been can be translated into Mongolian. Right now, only the made possible Bible exists in Mongolian; at the new study center, the by the support translation of the Catechism of the Catholic Church the missionaries is underway, together with writings of the popes and receive from classics from the saints. abroad, especially Pope Leo XIV recently said, speaking about World World Mission Mission Sunday, that it helps “remind people in the Sunday. The older churches, if you will, in the established churches, first three how important it is that they too join in the missionary missionaries, and spirit of the whole Church” (June 1, 2026). the two dozen or This October 18, 2026, when your parish takes up so missionaries the World Mission Sunday collection, I hope you will who have followed join this “missionary spirit” of the Church, considering after them, are the people in Mongolia. Their names and faces, and literally building their dreams, are the names, faces, and dreams of the Church from World Mission Sunday. ©WMS scratch. Even Michael Mitchell, TPMS, serves as USA World Mission today, the first Sunday Director. seminary is still
Mass OF Angels Wed., October 7 at 6:00 pm
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, Springfield This special celebration of the Holy Mass honors children of any age who have gone before their parents to the Lord. We gather in prayer and remembrance, entrusting these beloved children to God’s loving care. May the beauty of the Eucharistic sacrifice bring comfort, peace, and hope to all who grieve their loss.
September 25, 2026
The Mirror 9
DIOCESAN NEWS/ADVERTISING
GRANDPARENTS HIGHLIGHTED ON SIXTH WORLD DAY FOR GRANDPARENTS & ELDERLY
GRANDPARENTS—Grandparents and the elderly gathered with Fr. Colby Elbert in St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church Sept. 13 for the Sixth World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly. Pictured were (front) Sarah Lee Hunter; Mary Anderson; Cherie Hinde; Roger Sherman; Fr. Elbert; Janet Dame; Nonie Schuerenberg; Glenda and Bob Dacus; (back) Toni Grojean; Mary Cowell Henson; Charity Henson, (Las Vegas, NV); Betty Heckemeyer; Patty Bogue; Cliff Hinde; Rebecca Barber; Terry Dame; Linda Johnson; Kathy Mitchell, and David Johnson. (The Mirror) Sikeston, MO
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he St. Francis Xavier Parish Grandparents Association celebrated the Sixth World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly with parishioners on Sun., Sept. 13, during the 10:30am Mass. Pope Leo XIV chose the theme from Isaiah 49:15, “I will never forget you,” and the
parish bulletin containted the “Message from His Holiness Leo XIV, for the Sixth World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly.” At the liturgy, grandparents were welcome greeters, gift bearers, and enjoyed “reserved” seating at the front of the church. Father Colby Elbert, Pastor, gave a Grandparents and Elderly Blessing at the closing of Mass ©TM
ANNUAL WEST PLAINS CHICKEN BBQ STEAMING SUCCESS
HOT BBQ CHICKEN ... AND GRILLERS!—Despite record-setting Ozarks temperatures, the Knights of Columbus along with Fr. Mathew Naduchirayil, VC, Pastor, were positioned at the grill the weekend of Sept. 12-13, serving up some 1,221 BBQ chicken dinners at the annual event held at St. Mary Parish, West Plains. (Photo by Ann Hall/The Mirror)
(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
10 The Mirror
DIOCESAN 70TH HISTORY CORNER
FROM THE A RC H IVE S
IN HONOR OF OUR 70 TH ANNIVERSARY AS A DIOCESE, WE ARE PLEASED TO SHARE SOME OF OUR RICH HISTORY FROM THE ARCHIVES!
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he Diocese of SpringfieldCape Girardeau was canonically established by the Holy See on July 2, 1956, with The Most Rev. Charles H. Helmsing appointed its first Bishop August 24, 1956. He was installed on Nov. 28, 1956, by Joseph Cardinal Ritter, in St. Agnes Cathedral, in Springfield.
My appointment by Our Holy Father Pope Pius XII as Bishop of the new Diocese of SpringfieldCape Girardeau makes me a sharer in his solicitude to bring Christ’s message of peace, good will, and eternal happiness to my fellow Missourians. The new assignment would be a frightening burden were it not for the realization that in addition to God’s help, Archbishop Edwin Vincent O’Hara, at Our Holy Father’s bidding, is handing over to my care a choice portion of his vast Diocese (of Kansas City) together with some of his best priests, religious, and laity. In addition, I know the wonderful men and women among our non-Catholic friends who will welcome our poor efforts and cooperate with us in working for the common good—in time and eternity—of our fellow citizens in the exquisitely beautiful Ozarks area of our state. For me, the appointment as Bishop of the new diocese binds me more closely to the priests, religious, and laity of an area where I have served happily for the past seven years. With God’s help, I know that the heavy tasks of the future will be fruitful not only for the Catholics, but for the non-Catholics, many of whom I have met and whose goodwill and cooperation I value. I am grateful to Archbishop Joseph Ritter, who relinquishes to me such a wonderful segment of the Archdiocese of St. Louis. After God’s grace, I rely confidently on the prayers, loyalty, and cooperation of my brother priests, our self-sacrificing religious, and wonderfully apostolic laity. ©TM IN THE NEXT EDITION, BISHOP HELMSING’S FIRST PASTORAL LETTER: “ON DIRECTING OUR INTENTION,” ISSUED DECEMBER 27, 1956, ON THE FEAST OF ST. JOHN THE EVANGELIST.
BP. HELMSING •
Ordained a priest: Cathedral of St. Louis, June 10, 1933 Appointed Auxiliary Bishop, Archdiocese of St. Louis, March 17, 1949 Episcopal Consecration, Cathedral of St. Louis, April 19, 1949 Appointed Bishop of Springfield-Cape Girardeau, August 24, 1956 Installation as First Bishop of the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau, November 28, 1956
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DIOC ESAN STAT I ST I C S
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The diocese covers 400 miles of southern Missouri, comprised of 39 counties. At founding, there were 59 parishes and 31 mission stations spread over 25,719 square miles of territory. Catholics numbered 34,698 out of a total population of 823,047. There were 31 elementary parochial schools, four diocesan and parochial high schools, with a total of 9,820 children under instruction. The 1,263 Catholic grade school children attending public schools were being provided with special classes of religious instruction.
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The total number of priests, 113, including 47 religious, took care of the 59 parishes and 31 missions. The number of seminarians, 323, had been rising. There was one diocesan pre-seminary (minor seminary), Sacred Heart House of Studies, in Springfield, and three seminaries directed by religious orders of the diocese.
•
Bishop Helmsing served Springfield-Cape Girardeau five-and-a-half years until installed on April 3, 1962, as the Third Bishop of Kansas City-St. Joseph in Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Kansas City, MO, by Joseph Cardinal Ritter, of St. Louis.
September 25, 2026
FU L L TEX T O F 1 9 5 6 PRESS REL EAS E :
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he honor and authority given me by our Holy Father Pope Pius XII in the appointment as Bishop of the new Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau would be an insupportable burden and yoke were it not for the DIOCESAN BISHOPS CIRCA 1989—Springfield-Cape divinely promised Girardeau bishops sat for a photo in September of 1989 on light and strength the occasion of the blessing and dedication of The Catholic to make even the Center, which was the refurbished Springfield Catholic impossible possible; High School/St. Agnes High School building just south for “nothing shall be of St. Agnes Cathedral, Springfield. The Catholic Center impossible with god.” houses the chancery staff or the Bishop’s staff, which prior In addition, the to 1989, had been flung in various offices throughout the yoke becomes sweet city. The occasion was blessed by the attendance of all the and the burden light prior Bishops of Springfield-Cape Girardeau. Pictured were Bernard Law, Fourth Bishop of Springfield-Cape Girardeau when I think of all (1973-1984); William Baum, Third Bishop of Springfieldwho will share the burden with me: the Cape Girardeau (1970-1973); Charles H. Helmsing, First priests, both secular Bishop of Springfield-Cape Girardeau (1956-1962); John J. Leibrecht, Fifth Bishop of Springfield-Cape Girardeau and religious; the consecrated brothers (1984-2008; current living Bishop Emeritus); and Ignatius J. Strecker, Second Bishop of Springfield-Cape Girardeau and sisters; and the (1962-1969). (Photo by Dean Curtis/The Mirror) devoted laity. The eastern half of the new diocese I know well from my duties of the past seven years. Our beloved Archbishop Joseph Ritter has given it only the best of his priests in fervor and zeal; our religious superiors have done likewise; and as for the laity— know their loyalty, sacrifices, and devotion. And the western half of the diocese, I can judge from Archbishop Edwin O’Hara’s predilection for rural life, and for the scattered Catholics deprived of the helps of urban parish life. I am conscious that he too Is giving over to my poor care some of his most zealous and self-sacrificing priests and religious and a loyal cooperative laity. Consequently, I am looking forward to knowing, loving, and serving each and every one of them even as I have come to know and love those whom I have already been privileged to serve in the eastern half. In loyal consecration to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary and through her motherly intercession and that of St. Agnes (for to them our co-cathedrals are consecrated) we in the new Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau hope to become a vital unity in the Mystical Body of Christ. My heart is filled with gratitude for all that God has given me as a priest of the Archdiocese and as Auxiliary Bishop. Each and every soul whom I have been privileged to minister to in Christ’s name is dear to me—chiefly, my fellow priests and collaborators: the sisters, brothers, and lay apostles. Since the bond of charity continues, I rely simply on the prayers of all. It is a genuine joy to know that I retain Archbishop Ritter as my Metropolitan (Bishop). He has been a true spiritual father, friend and counselor. It is a consolation to know that I remain in Missouri and can continue to look to him for counsel and advice. While in a sense I relinquish the work of mission-aid in the Society for the Propagation of the Faith and in the Archdiocesan Rural Life and Home Missions Conference, I am happy to do so to one whom I love and revere for his simply, sincere love and zeal for the Universal Church, Viz., my devoted assistant for more than seven years, Fr. Glenn P. Flavin. Under his spiritual guidance, the members of the Holy Father’s World Mission-Aid Society and especially our growing numbers of Daily World-missionaries will continue to win the graces that will redound not a little to the true supernatural development of our new diocese in southern Missouri. ©TM
September 25, 2026
DIOCESAN NEWS
The Mirror 11 PENSION FOLLOW-UP
Diocesan informational meetings regarding lump-sum pension options
FALL & HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIRS Fredericktown—St. Michael the Archangel will have its Okotoberfest, Sun., Oct. 4, 11am-3pm. Fried chicken and pull pork dinners, Craft Room, Country Store & Bounce House. Great Food. Great Fun. Great Community! Jackson—Immaculate Conception School will hold its annual Fall Craft Fair Festival, Sat., Nov. 7, 9am-3pm in the parish gym. Over 50 vendors will be selling Christmas gift items, including homemade crafts, woodworking, soap, home décor, jewelry, and more. Concessions, pulled pork lunch and bake sale will also be available. Admission is $2 for ages 13 and up. Booth space is still available, for more information or application packet, contact iccraftshow@gmail.com. Jackson—The Knights of Columbus will hold a Pumpkin Patch Fundraiser, Oct. 17-31: M-F, 11am-7pm, and Sat. & Sun., 9am-5pm at the KC Hall, located at 3305 N. High St. Kimberling City—Our Lady of the Cove Catholic Church will have its Fall Craft Fair, Fri., Oct. 23, 9am-4pm & Sat., Oct. 24, 9am-3pm. Shop our booth for treasures and homemade crafts! Marshfield— Holy Trinity Parish CCW 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. Neosho—St. Canera Catholic Church will have its Fall Bazaar Kermes, Sat., Oct. 24, 10am-4pm, on the parish grounds located at 504 S Washington St. Food, activities and Country store will be open. Springfield—Immaculate Conception PCCW will have its Holiday Sale, Sat., Nov. 7, 8am-6pm and Sun., Nov. 8, 8am-1pm. Start your Christmas shopping at the huge holiday sale (White Elephant & Bake Sale) in Community Rooms A&B. The Bistro will be open, serving breakfast items and lunch with sandwiches, soups & desserts available for purchase. Springfield—St. Agnes Parish will host its Holiday Market, Sat., Nov. 7, 9am-4pm and Sun., Nov. 8, 8:30am-1pm in their new parish center. A variety of handmade items, Tupperware, Norwex, bake sale, sweet shoppe, and much more! Space is still available for Vendors-if you are crafty or have a product to sell, please contact Judy at (641) 751-6632. 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. Springfield— Holy Trinity Parish Council of Catholic Women will have its Fall Bazaar, Sat., Nov. 14, 9am-5pm and Sun., Nov. 15, 9:30am-12:30pm. Shop our vendors for wood art, jewelry, quilts, paper and craft goods, holiday décor and much more; including our White Elephant Sale, Garden Shop, & Sweet Shoppe. On Sat., the KofC will serve a lunch of pulled pork sandwiches & sides, 11am-1pm. Sunday is our famous White Elephant $10 bag sale.
All participants in the former Christian Brothers diocesan pension plan should have recently received an informational letter regarding a pension plan lump-sum offer. The letter is to inform participants that they will be receiving a packet within the first two weeks of October with more detailed information regarding the lump-sum offer and options available. The in-person meeting dates, times, and locations are as follows: • Wed., Oct. 14, 6:30pm, at Springfield Catholic High School, Springfield • Thu., Oct. 15, 6:30pm, at Notre Dame Regional High School, Cape Girardeau This is an important decision and one that we recommend you consult a professional financial advisor once you receive your packet. A Virtual pension plan lump-sum offer meeting will be held on Tue., Oct. 20, 3:30-4:30pm. Here is the link to join that meeting: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/22001559786269?p=OJp4kcS lcOEVzNXOqj
For more information, reach out to Doug Kissinger: (417) 866-0841 or dkissinger@dioscg.org.
12 The Mirror
DIOCESAN NEWS/ADVERTISING
September 25, 2026
PROCEEDS FROM ANNUAL SAINT FRANCIS COLOR DASH PROVIDE FREE CANCER SCREENINGS
Cape Girardeau
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or the eighth consecutive year, Saint Francis Foundation will fill Arena Park with a vibrant burst of color while raising funds for a lifesaving cause through its annual Color Dash 5K and Fun Walk. The event will begin at 10 a.m. on Sat., Oct. 3, at the Conservation Pavilion in Arena Park. Participants of all ages are invited to run, walk, and enjoy a fun, family-friendly experience. Proceeds from the Color Dash benefit Pink Up, a program that provides free screenings for the four most common cancers in the region: lung, prostate, colon, and breast. The program helps ensure that individuals who may not otherwise be able to afford preventive screenings have access to these potentially lifesaving services. “Every registration helps make potentially lifesaving cancer screenings available to people in our community who might otherwise go without,” said Katie Christian, Development Officer - Special Events for Saint Francis Foundation.
“The Color Dash is more than a fun event. It is an opportunity for families, friends, and coworkers to come together, make memories, and support early detection that can save lives.” Participants may register individually or form a team of five. Registration is $40 per individual or $175 per team. Advance registration is encouraged and is available through midnight on Sept. 27 at Saint Francis Foundation Color Dash Registration. For those who miss the advance registration deadline, on-site registration will be available from 9 to 9:45 a.m. on race day. Race packets may be picked up from noon to 4 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 1, in the Wellness Conference Rooms located in Fitness Plus (Entrance 8) at Saint Francis Medical Center. Awards and medals will be presented to individuals and teams in a variety of categories. For more information, contact Katie Christian at (573) 331-3187 or by email at kchristian@sfmc.net. ©TM
Find more information about the Eucharistic Rosary Congress at https:// RosaryCongressUSA.org
A Eucharistic Rosary Congress will be held at Saint Francis Medical Center Chapel, Cape Girardeau, Oct. 2-9, 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.
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA! DIOSCG.ORG DIOCESEGIRARDEAU OF SPRINGFIELD-CAPE AFFIRMLIFECAPE.ORG DIOCESE OF SPRINGFIELD-CAPE @DIOSCG GIRARDEAU
SISTERS WELCOMED IN CAPE GIRARDEAU ON THE WAY TO ST. LOUIS DOMINICAN SISTERS ENJOY LOCAL HOSPITALITY—Bishop Edward M. Rice, Deacon Rob Huff, and Deacon Tony Peters welcomed 70 Dominican Sisters from Nashville, who enjoyed Cape Girardeau hospitality on their way to the beatification Mass of Archbishop Fulton Sheen in St. Louis. They stopped by Notre Dame Regional High School for an Activity Week dinner of kettle beef on Sept. 23 and were housed in Saint Francis Medical Center and Drury before heading to St. Louis the morning of Sept. 24. (The Mirror)
September 25, 2026
DIOCESAN NEWS/ADVERTISING
The Mirror 13
14 The Mirror
DIOCESAN NEWS/ADVERTISING
September 25, 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.