THE CALL
We promote the Kingdom of God by living as disciples of Jesus.
Welcome to The CallOur NEW Newsletter!
We're excited to introduce The Call – the first issue in a brand-new chapter for our parish newsletter. For many years, The Shepherd’s Call was our beloved parish newspaper, keeping us connected by sharing stories of what had already happened in our community. It was a way to reflect, rejoice, and stay informed.
Now, we’re reimagining that tradition with a fresh look and a digital format –though we'll still have a limited number of print copies available for those who prefer them Our goal is to keep things accessible and cost-effective, so digital distribution is the way we’re going for the time being
We’re not entirely sure yet how The Call will evolve, but we plan to bring it to you four times a year Expect updates from our staff, highlights of our ministries, and a special "refrigerator page" on the back for important upcoming dates. Our hope is that The Call will help fill the communication gap we’ve had in recent years and keep you connected with the life of our parish in a meaningful way.
Thank you for joining us on this journey. We look forward to sharing these stories and updates with you, and we hope The Call becomes a source of inspiration, connection, and joy for our entire community.
WELCOME to the TEAM
New(ish) Staff Members
il Thacker - Parish Manager
ng lived most of my life in Lenexa and Olathe, I have deep ties to the area. rned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Emporia State ersity and spent over 40 years in the retail grocery and foodservice stries, with roles at Nabisco and Mission Foods. My focus on sales and agement helped me build experience in customer relations and team ership.
After retiring, I became parish manager at Holy Cross Parish in Overland Park, where I gained valuable experience in church operations. This prepared me for my current role at Good Shepherd, where I oversee human resources, facilities, and stewardship. Every day presents new challenges, and I enjoy working with our priests, staff, and volunteers.
Outside of work, my greatest joy is my family My wife, Becky, and I have been married for 40 years and are blessed with seven grandchildren We love spending time with them, whether playing games, sharing stories, or enjoying the outdoors Becky and I also enjoy camping in our motorhome, often at peaceful spots like Clinton Lake and Pomona Lake, where we also love to fish
With a strong commitment to family, faith, and service, I look forward to continuing my journey at Good Shepherd and making a meaningful impact in our community.
Veronica OlivarezDirector of Religious Education
Veronica is originally from Guadalajara, graduated with a bachelor’s degree in education and in 2005 had the opportunity to move here to the United States as a Spanish teacher for a Montessori preschool She is married to Peter Olivarez and lives in Olathe, KS with her 3 children: Juan Pablo, Sophia and Thomas Veronica started as a volunteer in the religious education program for St. Paul, eventually working as coordinator for the program. She is excited to serve God here at our parish, Good Shepherd.
"I give you a new commandment: love one another. As I have loved you, so you also should love one another." John 13, 34
Matthew HarrisDirector of Music
Matthew Harris has been passionate about music from a young age, starting classical piano studies at 8 and developing an early love for sacred music while accompanying Masses at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Jacksonville, FL. His mentorship with Lisa Moser and the late Brian Urso at Bishop John J. Snyder High School played a pivotal role in his development, and he became involved in various diocesan events, including performances for Cardinals and national youth conferences. Along the way, he also mastered multiple instruments, including guitar, bass, organ, and percussion.
Harris continued his music ministry after high school, serving as the principal organist and pianist at Mary Queen of Heaven Catholic Church and assisting other parishes in the Diocese of St. Augustine. He earned a Bachelor of Music in Voice Performance from Stetson University, where he studied conducting, music theory, and vocal pedagogy, while performing with the university’s Opera Theatre and Concert Choir. During this time, he made his operatic debut at Vero Beach Opera
Harris later pursued a Graduate Artist Diploma in Voice at William Jewell College, where he made his musical theatre debut in Hair and launched an extensive stage career His credits include roles in Sweeney Todd, Little Shop of Horrors, RENT, Dreamgirls, and Porgy and Bess, along with work as a pianist and music director in shows like After Midnight and Frida Libre. He also served as the Associate Music Director for the touring production of Nina Simone: Four Women.
Harris made his Chicago debut as the music director for Putting On The Britt, a cabaret concert featuring Brittney Mack, and will soon co-teach a musical theatre course at the University of Kansas and music direct Pippin there. His career spans opera, musical theatre, and education, establishing him as a versatile music professional.
Diane Keller -
Parish Accountant
Diane Keller is the accountant at Good Shepherd Catholic Church and School. Diane has been in the accounting field for over 27 years and has a strong passion for numbers. She has spent most of her career on the corporate side providing insight for business leaders and executives to make sound decisions regarding the bottom line. She is enjoying the non profit arena and the challenges it offers.
Diane has been married for over 30 years and has three children. She enjoys reading and hanging out with family and friends She prefers to end her day with some sort of workout and the occasional Netflix binge
AROUND THE PARISH
Journeying in Faith: The Road to Catholicism at Good Shepherd
Mary Mueller
Becoming part of the Catholic faith as an adult is a deeply personal journey. Each person who inquires brings a unique life story, often mirroring the journeys of lifelong Catholics. Some come with questions, perhaps raised in another tradition, yet touched by someone living out a vibrant Catholic faith. Their curiosity is a first step, and we are here to walk with them, learning together.
Others are familiar faces in our parish. Married to Catholics and raising their families within the Church, they may now feel ready to embrace the Catholic faith fully, experiencing the sacramental life firsthand. For those who have celebrated and served with us, we joyfully welcome them into deeper communion.
There are also those who have yet to find a spiritual home. Drawn by a longing for connection and meaning, they respond to a divine pursuit that calls them to explore Catholicism with a sense of conviction To them, we extend our faith and love
The path to becoming Catholic at Good Shepherd is as unique as each seeker We gather year-round, providing a welcoming and flexible process For some, the journey to full communion may be brief; for others, it unfolds through steps of catechumenal rituals and preparation, culminating in baptism at Easter
This journey wouldn’t be possible without our parish community, where faith and welcoming hearts create a true sense of belonging. If you or someone you know feels called to explore Catholicism or join our welcoming team, we’d love to hear from you. The journey awaits!
A Sheptember to Remember
Phil Thacker
SheptemberFest was a resounding success this year, attracting a vibrant crowd and fostering a sense of community. The festival featured a fantastic lineup of entertainment, including performances by both a folk band and a mariachi band, the latter accompanied by talented dancers that engaged the audience in lively participation. The weather was amazing, and the outdoor setting added to the festive atmosphere, allowing everyone to enjoy the evening.
Food played a central role in the event, with offerings that included hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, a variety of Mexican dishes, and an ice cream stand that delighted attendee of all ages The variety of food options catered to diverse tastes and contributed to the overall enjoyment of the festival.
Activities for all ages were abundant, with miniature golf, giant Jenga, and bags providing fun for families and friends. The playground was also open, making it a welcoming environment for children to play and explore.
The event was primarily organized by church staff, with valuable support from volunteers from the parish and school. Their hard work and dedication ensured everything ran smoothly, and their teamwork was evident throughout the planning and execution of the festival.
Overall, Sheptemberfest not only celebrated the season but also strengthened community bonds, making it a cherished tradition that attendees look forward to each year Plans for future festivals include incorporating even more interactive elements and perhaps expanding the schedule to keep the festivities going strong.
The Moment We’ve All Been Waiting For...
Matthew Harris
On September 28th, we joyfully blessed our new pipe organ during worship Originally built in 1916 by Hook and Hastings for Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Cambridge, MA, the organ has been lovingly restored and expanded by Greenleaf Organ Company, now proudly serving as their Opus 1. This extraordinary instrument combines historical craftsmanship with modern enhancements, resulting in a remarkable depth of sound tailored specifically for our sanctuary.
What can we expect from our new organ? Its unique voicing and tuning provide a rich, cathedral-like tone that supports both powerful choral and congregational singing, while still offering delicate nuances. The organ features fullbodied stops and a lovely variety of flutes and reeds that can imitate orchestral instruments, enhancing our worship experience Notably, the lush and expressive strings in the swell division invite a broad range of musical styles, from traditional hymns to contemporary pieces, keeping both our organist and congregation engaged throughout the liturgy.
As the organ continues to acclimate to our space, it will adapt to the seasonal changes in temperature and humidity. Regular use in worship is essential for its optimal performance, particularly in supporting congregational singing. While the organ is now a primary instrument, it will complement our other musical offerings rather than replace them You can expect to hear the piano, guitar, violin, bass, trumpet, clarinet, and more, creating a rich and varied musical experience
Looking ahead, our new organ will be featured prominently during special services, including Christ the King, Thanksgiving, Advent, and Christmas. There’s much to look forward to, including the Overland Park Orchestra concert on December 15th. In 2025, we will host an organ dedication recital featuring Andrew Morris stay tuned for more details!
Thank you for joining us on this exciting musical journey as we explore the many ways our new pipe organ can enrich our worship and community life We can’t wait to share these experiences with you!
GOOD SHEPHERD LEADERSHIP: OUR PARISH COUNCIL
Effective leadership relies on the support of dedicated individuals who share the mission of their organization. Every successful head coach acknowledges the many people who contribute to the team’s success, and every Academy Award acceptance speech includes heartfelt thanks to those who helped along the way.
While I don’t consider myself a perfect leader, I am fortunate to have an incredible team that makes Good Shepherd thrive. Our amazing staff, both at the school and parish, work tirelessly to support our mission. A great example of this teamwork is the initiative to create this newsletter, aimed at improving our communication within the community
A
Note from Our Pastor
Today, I want to shine a light on the vital role of our parish council. This consultative body serves as a valuable resource for me as the pastor. I often rely on their insights what they see and hear around the parish helps me understand our community's needs and guides our path forward.
It’s crucial for me to have a diverse representation on the council to capture various perspectives and ideas. I don’t seek “yes men” who agree with everything I propose; instead, I value those who challenge me to discern what truly benefits our parish and what may hinder our progress There have been times when the council has redirected my ideas for the better, and I’m grateful for their guidance Together, we are stronger
This year’s parish council members include Millie Hill (chair), Marilyn Breitenstein, Laurie Brown, Barb Cordts, Theresa Etler, Susan Hotzel, Eileen Manza, Anne McDonald, Martha Romo, John Sojka, Derek Teeter, Pedro Torres, and Scott Wasserman Mary Mueller and I serve as the staff representatives
CREATING SAFE ENVIRONMENTS
Good Shepherd Parish recently completed a Safe Environment Audit, underscoring our commitment to creating a secure and caring environment for young people and vulnerable individuals in our community This audit conforms to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, which emphasizes proactive and transparent practices to prevent abuse. We’re pleased to share that both our parish and the archdiocese have been found fully compliant with the Charter, originally established in 2002 and revised in 2018 to include comprehensive guidelines for reconciliation, accountability, and prevention.
Safe Environment protocols are an essential part of maintaining a secure community at Good Shepherd. Key components include: attending a Protecting God’s Children Training session, completing a background check, monthly continuing education bulletins, and posting reporting protocols Children and teens are expected to complete an annual session on how to create safe boundaries in their own lives.
These measures are part of our unwavering commitment to building a community that prioritizes safety, compassion, and accountability Together, we are dedicated to maintaining a healthy and nurturing environment for all, as we grow in faith and unity
GOOD SHEPHERD SCHOOL NEWS
Eighth Graders Give Back
Good Shepherd has a long-standing history of ministry at St. Mary’s Food Kitchen in downtown Kansas City, Kansas. Each month, parish volunteers prepare, cook, and serve lunches to over 300 people experiencing food insecurity. Recently, the parish team invited eighth graders to join in this effort as part of their Confirmation preparation, which includes service projects and learning more about the community’s needs.
Each month, a group of five eighth-grade students, along with a parent and teacher chaperone, join the parish team. The students participate in preparing food, cooking meals, washing dishes, and serving patrons. Eighth grader Ruby Becker shared, “It is nice to make a connection with the people we are serving and put a smile on their faces. It makes me happy knowing that what little bit we are doing is taking care of them for the day.” Student Davis Foster agreed, adding that his favorite part was cooking and serving the food. “It was neat to experience cooking, preparing the food, and trying out new things in the kitchen. Our homemade fall apple dessert was a hit!”
This opportunity has given the eighth graders a deeper sense of responsibility and strengthened their understanding of service. It has also taught them more about human dignity and the importance of loving their neighbors. Leah Hickey reflected, “It was really eye-opening to see the younger children and people our age. You could tell how grateful the patrons were while we were there.”
Upon returning, the students eagerly shared their experiences with classmates, and all who participated expressed a desire to go again if given the opportunity
Fourth Graders Bring Saints to Life on All Saints' Day
In celebration of All Saints' Day, Good Shepherd School’s fourth-grade students, led by their teachers Miss Allie Dierks and Mrs. Jacquie Churchill, brought the lives of saints to life through a unique and reverent school tradition. Each student researched and chose a saint, crafted a detailed report, and presented it to different grades, sharing stories of faith, courage, and service.
Dressed as their chosen saints, the fourth graders took center stage at the All Saints’ Day Mass, leading the liturgy by reading the parts and sharing prayers, adding a heartfelt touch to the service The students’ presentations allowed younger grades to learn about various saints and their virtues, fostering a spirit of faith and community throughout the school.
Miss Dierks and Mrs. Churchill expressed pride in their students’ dedication, noting how the project helps students practice public speaking while gaining a deeper understanding of these holy figures. This Good Shepherd tradition continues to inspire both students and teachers as they commemorate the saints’ legacies together.
YOUTH MINISTRY
Oasis Heads to Long Beach
Valentina Maslovaric
When I say “NC,” you say “YC!” NCYC!!!!!!
What exactly is NCYC? NCYC is not just an event it's an unforgettable experience. Earlier this month, 6 members of our youth group, Oasis, had the incredible opportunity to attend the National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC) in Long Beach, California, alongside 3,000 other teens. We set out on a journey to discover El Camino: The Way through deepening our relationship with God and exploring the beauty of our Catholic faith
From the moment we arrived, we knew this would be something special The journey began by diving into the waters, where we reflected on the importance of baptism in our lives. Then, we ventured into the desert, a powerful reminder of how we face challenges and struggles in our own lives. But the path didn’t stop there! We climbed the mountains, learning how to keep God first in all circumstances, no matter how difficult. And finally, we arrived in Jerusalem walking the Stations of the Cross and witnessing the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus. It was a profound experience that showed us just how much He loves us, giving up His life for our salvation.
NCYC wasn’t just about big group sessions; it was an interactive experience that allowed us to connect on a deeper level We prayed together with novenas, participated in adoration, and joined in Mass as one large community We also had the chance to dive into smaller, focused sessions where we could ask questions, explore our faith, and even enjoy unique experiences like listening to a bishop rap (yes, you read that right!) or learning new ways to pray and worship When we needed a break, we were able to wander through the exhibit hall, where we met teens from across the country, played games, made bracelets, and discovered many Catholic organizations we can get involved in. It was a space to relax, recharge, and connect with others.
Each of us walked away with something different from this powerful experience. For some, it was the emotional connection to the Stations of the Cross, where we felt the depth of Jesus' love and sacrifice. For others, it was the peace of going to confession and receiving the forgiveness of our sins. And for many, it was simply the joy of meeting so many amazing people from all over the country.
We are all incredibly grateful for the opportunity to attend NCYC 2024. It wasn’t just a conference it was a life-changing experience that deepened our faith and strengthened our bond with God and one another From all of us at Oasis, a huge thank you for your unwavering support, prayers, and donations Your kindness made it possible for us to discover The Way at NCYC this year
HISPANIC MINISTRY
Celebrating Our Lady of Guadalupe
Miguel Hernandez
This December, we invite you to join us in celebrating a special day at Good Shepherd through the lens of our vibrant Hispanic Ministry. The story of Our Lady of Guadalupe, deeply meaningful to Hispanic Catholics, symbolizes faith, unity, and the powerful connections between cultures.
The tradition of Our Lady of Guadalupe stems from a miraculous encounter in 1531, when the Virgin Mary appeared to Saint Juan Diego, an indigenous man in Mexico, speaking to him in his native language. Through a series of visions, Mary requested that a church be built on the site of her appearance When Juan Diego sought the local bishop’s approval, Mary provided him with a miraculous image on his tilma, or cloak, of her own likeness, now enshrined and cherished in Mexico Today, Our Lady of Guadalupe is recognized as the Patroness of the Americas uniting cultures across the continents
At Good Shepherd, the Hispanic Ministry embraces this rich heritage with events, Masses, and community gatherings dedicated to Our Lady of Guadalupe. The celebration is a lively blend of faith, tradition, and fellowship. Together, we honor Mary’s message of compassion, faith, and hope, which resonates across generations and nationalities.
Join us on December 11, as we honor Our Lady of Guadalupe, celebrate our Hispanic Ministry and the spirit of Good Shepherd’s community, bringing people of all backgrounds closer in faith and understanding
In Loving Memory
Linda Dunehoo
Welcome New Members!
David, Chrislyn Marie & Adalyn Nguyen
Susan Salashor, Derek Tate & Savannah Diaz
Karl, Alana & Arthur Dunkel
Jon, Julie, Ari & Silas Bachert
Jim & Pat Carson
Matilda Casad
Lynda Heimback
Brent Lehman
Ovet Gomez Regalado
David Heeter
Steven Gutschenritter
Donna Jo Loeffler
Vickie Rosner
Ralph Gundelfinger
Maria Jesus Villegas
Ed Simmons
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT It Takes a Parish...
Brad Roder
At Good Shepherd, many dedicated parishioners volunteer their time and talent to support the parish, making it impossible to spotlight everyone. As Facilities Director/Custodian, I regularly work with these volunteers, particularly those in our Facility Council, whose contributions are both invaluable and often understated.
The Facility Council, which meets quarterly, plays a crucial role in maintaining and improving the parish building and grounds. With expertise in civil and mechanical engineering, city planning, electrical/plumbing/HVAC, groundskeeping, roofing, architecture, and more, the council members bring a diverse skill set to the table. Their experience ensures that the parish remains functional, operational, and continually improving.
These volunteers don’t just offer advice they actively participate in projects, whether by connecting us with the right professionals or physically working on tasks. Their contributions include roofing replacement, building the baptismal font, upgrading lighting, adding signage, creating the STEM Lab, repairing the parking lot, maintaining the detention pond, and so much more. They’ve also helped with security upgrades, snow removal, garden maintenance, and classroom repairs.
Since joining in 2015, I’ve seen firsthand the immense value this group brings to our maintenance efforts. Their willingness to volunteer their expertise and time has been a blessing to the parish. I encourage you to thank these individuals when you see them and consider joining the council or attending a meeting if you’d like to contribute to these important efforts.
Mike Burson
Jack Carson
Wayne Davis
Ron Freyermuth
Dion Gartner
Brian Hickey
Tony Hipsher
Mike Rode
Brad Roder
ADVENT HAPPENINGS
Parish Reconciliation Service
Monday, December 2 7 PM
JHIGH Christmas Party
Friday, December 6, 7-9 PM
Breakfast with Santa
Saturday, December 7 8-11 AM
Hispanic Ministry Advent Retreat
Sunday, December 8 9 AM
Feast of the Immaculate Conception
Holy Day of Obligation
Monday, December 9
Mass Times:
7 and 8:30 AM (school Mass)
6 PM (English) 730 PM (Spanish)
Good Shepherd School Christmas Concert
Tuesday, December 10 6:30 PM
Our Lady of Guadalupe Celebration
Wednesday, December 11 5 PM
Oasis Christmas Party
Sunday, December 15, 3-5 PM
Advent/Christmas Concert
Good Shepherd Choir and Overland Park Orchestra
Sunday, December 15 6 PM
CHRISTMAS MASS SCHEDULE
Christmas Eve
Tuesday, December 24
4 PM in the church and in the gym
6 PM English
8 PM Spanish
10 PM English
Christmas Day
Wednesday, December 25
10 AM English
12"30 PM Spanish
Feast of Mary the Mother of God
Holy Day of Obligation
New Year’s Eve
Tuesday, December 31
6 PM
New Year’s Day
Wednesday, January 1
10 AM English
12:30 PM Spanish
The Church Office will be Closed December 24 through January 1
We will Re-open on Thursday, January 2