THE CALL
I’m not sure that there is a more lovely time in a parish than in September/October. For these two months, it feels like the parish is operating at “maximum normality.” School and parish programs are in full swing, it’s a great time for weddings and quinceañeras, and we are a fair distance from the “high holy days” of Christmas or Easter and from the “low slow days” of summer.
Lots of great things are happening here. Make sure you read about the “Best in Johnson County” award our school was awarded. Our school feels vibrant and full of life, it seems that we are off to a great start. Also, read about the SheptemberFest I heard many times that it was our best ‘Fest yet, and I couldn’t disagree Our School of Religion has undergone a complete overhaul and I am excited about the new directions we are taking there. Our project to build a more thriving parish is moving forward at a nice, Spirit-led pace. We have welcomed a new staff member in Vicky Nealy as Director of Music. She’s not exactly new here, though, either, as she was once the school music teacher many years ago.
I feel very blessed to be here at Good Shepherd. Amidst the many difficulties we are facing in our world today, my hope is that Good Shepherd can be a place of light of refuge It certainly is for me
ANotefrom
OurPastor
SheptemberFest 2025 was a joyful celebration of community, culture, and fellowship. The event brought together parishioners of all ages for an evening filled with lively music, delicious food, and family-friendly fun.
The atmosphere came alive with musical performances from local favorite Trevvor Gorman, whose acoustic set created a warm and welcoming vibe, and the energetic Mariachi Band, Estrella, who delighted the crowd with traditional Mexican music that had everyone dancing and singing along. Dancers from Grupo Folclórico del Sur and Academia Santa Cruz entertained the audience through their cultural routines and vibrant dresses.
Food was a major highlight of the festival. The Knights of Columbus served up hearty classics, while members of our Hispanic community offered a variety of authentic Latin dishes that drew long lines and rave reviews. Snack lovers enjoyed the booth hosted by Mary's Hands, offering sweet treats perfect for a pre, or after dinner snack.
Refreshing drinks were provided by the local Boy Scouts, keeping everyone hydrated and happy, and the El Salvador Ministry added a sweet touch with their ever-popular ice cream treats.
SheptemberFest was a beautiful expression of unity and diversity within our parish. We’re grateful to all the volunteers, ministries, and attendees who made this event so special. We look forward to continuing this tradition in the years to come!
Photography courtesy of Erik Gregory
Focusing on 38 years of Accompaniment
Since 1987, Good Shepherd has had a sister relationship with a community in rural El Salvador. In those years, our two communities have grown together, celebrating each others accomplishments, sharing our sorrows and looking together with hopeful expectation to our futures We have built together: in Shawnee a new church, school, and community center, and at Buen Pastor, homes, a school, infrastructure, potable water and a bridge! Sharing our financial support has educated children and young adults, paving a way to better lives for the individuals and community The children of Buen Pastor in 1987 are now the leaders of the directiva, the local community in Aguilares, and supporting their families and community members. Below are the thoughts of Alex, one of the college students that Good Shepherd supports on the history of our relationship.
EL SALVADOR MINISTRY
A Story that Crosses Borders
My name is Alexander Ernesto Hernandez Tobias. My name is a little long but it is not as long as the story of our communities.
Before I start, I’ll share a little about me: I am currently a university student majoring in International Relations and Business. At the same time, I’m studying English at the National University of El Salvador. This journey fills me with hope because it represents opportunities that many young people like me can only dream of.
But enough about me; now I’d like to share a few words about our shared experiences. Our history- that of Buen Pastor in Aguilares and Good Shepherd in Shawnee- started in 1987 amid a brutal civil war that rattled El Salvador Within this context, amid the pain, fear and the ruthless war, the seed of friendship was planted in our sistering communities Now, 38 years later, in 2025, this relationship has grown, and its fruit is felt in every encounter, every visit and every hug between our communities
Nevertheless, despite the time, there are some things that have not changed much. Today we are living in a very complex political situation. This is marked by new laws and a state of fear. Even so, our community remains standing with hope. We still have a strong desire to continue building- not with silence but with dignity.
What started as a solidarity gesture became, with the years, a true family. Each visiting delegation brings a special energy and one that transforms. Delegation visits are a living bridge between our communities. Yes, we are different in multiple ways: we speak different languages, different cultures, but none of these differences has ever been a barrier to love, to listen and to walk together. On the contrary, it has made our story even more beautiful. Deep inside we have the same hearts and the same faith, and that is what makes us strong. Together we have lived the Gospel “Love one another, as I have loved you”.
Thanks to you, today youth have the opportunity to pursue an education. Good Shepherd’s support to the Scholarship Program has changed our lives and shapes our future. Thank you for believing in us. May the story that began many years ago continue to grow as a strong tree, with deep roots and branches that reach up to the sky “THANK YOU VERY MUCH”
BELONGING, BELIEVING, BECOMING
Good Shepherd invites everyone to deepen faith, connect in community, and journey together as the Body of Christ.
Over the past year, our parish staff and lay leadership have been listening reaching out to parishioners, neighbors, and those seeking a spiritual home We asked what brings life and joy at Good Shepherd, and where we can grow to better serve your needs. Thank you to all who shared your thoughts, and to those who haven’t yet, know that your voice is always welcome.
What we’ve heard has inspired us. Good Shepherd is a community blessed with faith, generosity, and love, and we want to nurture those gifts even more. In the coming years, we are committing to strengthening every part of parish life how we welcome one another, accompany each other in faith, serve those in need, and gather in prayer and worship.
To guide this journey, we’ve chosen three words that capture our vision: Belonging, Believing, and Becoming. These reflect who we are and who we are called to be: a parish where everyone belongs, faith is formed and deepened, and together we grow as the Body of Christ.
In the weeks ahead, you will be hearing more about two elements that will guide our process: the parish Strategic Plan and our participation in a national grant opportunity called Pathways Toward a Thriving Parish.
The Strategic Plan
Three strategic goals were identified around Community Life, Service & Justice, and Fostering our Catholic Faith.
By working together, these goals empower every parishioner to live out their faith, ensuring Good Shepherd remains a vibrant, welcoming, and mission-driven community for years to come
• Community life draws people in, strengthening their connection to Good Shepherd
• Service and justice inspire action, making faith tangible in daily life
• Worship and formation deepen faith, sustaining the call to both community and service.
These goals are supported by addressing the underlying structural supports of our facilities, our financial stability and communication and technology.
Pathways Toward a Thriving Parish
Good Shepherd is excited to participate in a multi-year grant from the Lily Foundation, led by the National Committee of Catechetical Leaders, to explore ways to grow as a thriving parish.
Last June, Fr. Kent, parishioners Leilani Vaughn and Larry Livingston, and staff Becca Gregory, Veronica Olivarez, and Mary Mueller attended a conference in Chicago to learn the Pathways Process There, they identified three key areas to guide our parish forward: Belonging, Believing, and Becoming These pathways reflect our strategic goals to welcome everyone, deepen faith, and grow together as the Body of Christ.
Our core team has begun planning, and there will be many opportunities for the parish to engage through listening sessions, discussions, and implementing these pathways. Stay tuned for updates, and join us in this exciting journey of renewal as we strengthen faith, fellowship, and service at Good Shepherd!
SCHOOL NEWS
Good Shepherd Named Best Private K-8 School in Johnson County for 2025
We are excited to share that Good Shepherd School has been voted Best Private School K-8 in Johnson County for 2025! This recognition, part of the annual “Best of Johnson County” awards, is a true celebration of our entire school community It honors the outstanding students, dedicated teachers and staff, and supportive parents who together make Good Shepherd such a special place to learn and grow
This award is more than a title. It reflects the spirit of Good Shepherd. Our students bring energy and curiosity to every classroom and treat others with kindness. Our faculty and staff go above and beyond each day to provide academic excellence while nurturing character, faith, and compassion. Our families support and strengthen our mission, creating a partnership that helps every child flourish.
The recognition affirms how Good Shepherd strives to be a place where children are both challenged and encouraged, where values are lived out in daily practice, and where education is about more than academics. It is about forming students for life. Good Shepherd prides itself on creating a caring environment where children are truly known and loved, and where staff members consistently help students reach their highest potential.
We are grateful for this honor and for the continued support of our parish and school families. Together, we will celebrate this achievement and look ahead with excitement to all the blessings this school year will bring
Student Council Leads with Spirit and Service at Good Shepherd
At Good Shepherd School, leadership starts early. Student Council, made up of elected members from grades 5-8, works to build school spirit and strengthen the community both spiritually and socially. Each fall, students elect executive officers President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Public Relations as well as classroom representatives. The Executive Council leads meetings, works with teacher sponsors Mrs. Swearngin and Mrs. Wagner, and communicates with Principal McGuff. Classroom representatives share updates, encourage participation, and help energize school events like pep rallies.
Student Council members are called to be role models through their leadership, service, and teamwork They bring ideas to life and help Good Shepherd grow in faith while creating a vibrant, welcoming school environment.
Congratulations to this year’s Executive Officers and Representatives! President: Evelyn Swan | Vice President: Cam Reyes | Treasurer: Ryan Wacker | Secretary: Paxton Prieb | Public Relations: Annabelle Lilja
Representatives: Truman Peppers, Colton Wagner, Levi Lilja, Abby Dvorak, Bobby Burns, Anna Lien, Bennett Daly, Maeve Sojka, Ridley MacPherson, Natalie Greek, Elle Ahlstedt, MJ Talboy, Sofia Morales, Annie Kelley, Thomas Scribner, Charlotte Dejmal, Raylan White, Lucas Walton, Ximena Martinez, Reid Zlomke, Morgan Zlomke, Crosby Wood, Xavier Sojka, Ellyn McVicker, Arianna Luna, Catherine Streb, Juliette Lilja, Margot Daly
SCHOOL NEWS
Good Shepherd Eighth Graders Enjoy Annual Overnight Retreat
For 25 years, Good Shepherd School has carried on the long-standing tradition of the eighth-grade overnight retreat at Prairie Star Ranch This year’s retreat, held on September 4th and 5th, was a wonderful success and a fantastic way to start the school year.
Located in Williamsburg, Kansas, Prairie Star Ranch, owned by the Archdiocese, offers a beautiful setting for prayer, reflection, and community building. Good Shepherd has used the ranch as a location for the retreat for many years, as it also offers a space for students to spend the night.
The retreat was led by 8th-grade teachers Mrs. Swearngin and Miss Oldenhuis, principal Mrs. McGuff, with additional support from 7th-grade teachers Miss Tyler and Miss Schutte. Together, they guided the students through a variety of activities designed to strengthen faith, foster teamwork, and build lasting friendships.
Colton Wagner, an eighth-grade student, shared that he enjoyed the retreat because it gave him the chance to bond with his classmates in a way he hadn’t before. Classmate Anna Lien said she especially enjoyed the meals, where everyone sat in a big circle and each time they ate, they sat by someone new. She also loved the team-building games. “I liked the whole experience,” she said. “We all grew closer as a class. I was able to connect with classmates in new ways.
During the two days, the eighth graders grew closer as a community while spending time in prayer, participating in team-building challenges, and sharing plenty of laughter.
The eighth-grade retreat continues to be one of the most memorable and meaningful experiences of the year, helping students prepare for the year ahead and deepening their connection with God and one another.
HISPANIC MINISTRY
Celebrating 10 Years of Hispanic Ministry at Good Shepherd
With great joy and gratitude, our parish of Good Shepherd celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Hispanic community. These have been ten years of walking together in faith, sharing our traditions, strengthening parish life, and building a true family in Christ. The celebration began with a Mass of Thanksgiving, where we gave thanks to God for everything experienced during this decade. In the homily, the importance of the Hispanic community as a fundamental part of the parish was highlighted, bringing life, faith, and enthusiasm to every service, ministry, and activity.
After Mass, everyone joined in a joyful fellowship, filled with music, food, laughter, and cherished memories. It was a moment to recognize those who first said “yes” to the call to serve and to thank all who have worked tirelessly so that our Hispanic community may continue to grow and flourish. Looking toward the future, we renew our commitment to walk together as one parish, strengthening our faith and sharing it with new generations.
Thanks to all who have been part of this journey! With hope and enthusiasm, we say: Here’s to many more years of faith, unity, and service at Good Shepherd!
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION
Growing in FaithReligious Education at Good Shepherd
Jesus said, “Let
the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”
Matthew 19:14
YOUTH MINISTRY
Prayer and Action -Youth on a Mission
Becca Gregory
This summer, 21 teens from our Parish spent a powerful week at Prayer and Action, a mission experience that blends service, prayer, and community. Each day was full of hard work, laughter, and the unmistakable presence of the Holy Spirit.
From the moment we arrived, the energy was contagious. Without phones to distract them, the kids immediately began connecting talking, laughing, playing games, and singing together. During our first evening reflection, one student admitted he had come feeling nervous and alone, but already felt accepted and surrounded by new friends It was a reminder that God was present from the very start
Our days began early, with morning workouts, prayer, and Mass before heading out to worksites. Crews tackled tough jobs in the summer heat scraping and painting homes, repairing decks, mowing lawns, pulling countless weeds, and even restoring gardens and cemeteries. Every project was a chance to serve Christ through others. Homeowners consistently shared how impressed they were by the teens not only with their work ethic, but with their joy, respect, and willingness to engage. One homeowner, a cancer survivor, was overwhelmed with gratitude, calling the group’s efforts a blessing after her own years of service to the community
Evenings brought time to reflect, pray, and share. The youth spoke of hearing God’s voice in their work, in their teammates, and in the people they served. One highlight was the foot-washing service, where missionaries prayed over chaperones, and chaperones prayed over each teen Tears and smiles mingled in that holy space, as everyone experienced the depth of God’s love.
Throughout the week, the youth discovered the strength of community and the beauty of living faith openly. They built friendships rooted in Christ, grew in confidence to share their faith, and committed to carrying prayer into their daily lives. Many said they didn’t miss their phones at all but they were certainly looking forward to real showers and their own beds!
As we returned home, one truth stood out clearly: when young people give their hearts fully to prayer and action, God’s light shines brightly through them. Our teens were living witnesses of Christ’s love, and our parish is richly blessed by their example
Mark & Marian Williams
Kelly & Lisa Kelley Family
Juan & Xaviera Feliciano Family
Bud & Karin Oelklaus
Kevin & Erin Thompson Family
Jim & Dianne McHugh
Brent & Morey Schulte Family
Glenn Scamman
Jair Velazques
Matthew & Carrie Frazee Family
Bradley & Katie Berning Family
Ron & Kim Goetz
Shea & Lindsey Bowlin
John & D’Ann Woodward
Keaton & Spencer Young Family
Dave & Kelly Armstrong
James & Maegan Gerhardt Family
Kyle & Isabella Stankevitch Family
Mary Marks
Edwin Rodriguez & Tana Javiel Cruz
Cesar Vidal & Blanca Ortiz Maldonado Family
Martin Rodriguez Gurrola & Fatima
Robles Bencomo Family
Cesar Vidal & Blanca Ortiz Maldonado Family
Martin Rodriguez Gurrola & Fatima
Robles Bencomo Family
Raquel Badilla Family
Norma Molina Family
John McEniry Family
Haley Kempf & Eli Irsik
Jerome LaMartina
Matt & Nicole Brown Family
Thomas & Leah Bane
Dustin & Meghan Stember Family
Harry & Sofia Petersen Family
Marian Cevallos
Jesus & Johana Oseguera Family
Eladio Diaz & Maria del Carmen Chavez Family
Yazmin Reyes Family
Susana Andrade Family
Luis Gonzalez Escamilla
Anael Oliva & Dora Villeda
Axel Avila & Karem David
Ramon Santamaria & Enriqueta
Torres Family
Carlos Zamora & Sandra Corral Family
Rosa Mendoza Torres Family
Vincente Sanchez & Yolanda
Velazquez Family .
Gerald Magliano
Claudio Romero Lopez
Christine Dittman
Alynah Celesto Nieves Car
Mary Augustine
Steve Imm
Tim Crowley
Around Good Shepherd
Believing
Belonging
Becoming
