10-10-25 The Mirror(digital)

DEACON BRYAN BURGER reflects on recent ordination as a permanent deacon

By Paula Wright Kelso, MO

Bryan Burger recently celebrated the Rite of Ordination to the Diaconate on Sat., Sept. 13, in St. Augustine Catholic Church, Kelso. The Most Rev. Edward M. Rice was celebrant. He sat down with The Mirror for a recap of the beautiful morning liturgy:

One Church, East to West: Loving Jesus, Serving Jesus, Sharing Jesus

FAMILY

Janice – wife (26 years of marriage)

Caleb – son (22)

Livi – daughter (20)

Mike & Judy Burger - parents

EDUCATION

I attended St. Joseph Catholic School in Scott City for elementary school. From there, I went to Scott City High School where I participated in various athletic programs and school clubs.

After high school, I attended College of the Ozarks in Point Lookout, MO, just south of Branson, and graduated with a degree in Agriculture Technology and a minor in Business Administration. Since graduation, I have worked in the construction field as a laborer, foreman, and project manager in the residential and commercial sectors.

fulfill this call that the Lord had placed on me.

It’s very difficult for me to pick out a single greatest memory because there were so many. Some of the more memorable moments were:

• Being vested by Fr. Tomasz Wilk with the assistance of my wife, Janice

• Receiving the Book of the Gospels, whose herald I have now become

Vol. LXI, No. 13

Today, my brother, Travis, and I own and operate Bloomfield Road Landscape, a service company that specializes in customized, design build projects in both the residential and commercial landscape markets. Together, we manage a team of nine employees as we focus on creating a family atmosphere, serving our customers with the same care and respect that we desire from others.

As you reflect upon your Ordination, is there a memory that stands out?

• Exchanging the Sign of Peace with my brother deacons

• Receiving the gifts, during offertory, from my parents and children

• Serving beside Bishop Rice at the altar during the Liturgy of the Eucharist and elevating the chalice containing the Blood of Christ during the doxology

• Sitting with our Blessed Mother Mary during the meditation hymn, Hail Mary, Gentle Woman, after communion. I have a strong devotion to our Mother and believe that she has been instrumental in bringing me to this day.

another to the point that the stars were beginning to align and maybe there was some truth to this matter. So, in the spring of 2000, during the heart of COVID, I began the process to apply for the permanent diaconate, and I finally began my studies in September of 2021. Initially, I was to be in formation with the Archdiocese of St. Louis, which would be meeting two nights each week for threehour increments at Kenrick-Glennon in St. Louis. I accepted this schedule, but I was not overly thrilled about the idea of spending that much time on the road after working all day. Three weeks before classes were to begin, I was presented with another formation opportunity that would allow me to attend classes for one weekend each month in Memphis, and I was much more in favor of this setup.

What were highlights of the formation process?

The next issue of The Mirror will be October 24, 2025

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The ordination was absolutely beautiful. It was very personal since I was the only man being ordained. I was allowed to select all the individuals for the various liturgical roles, as well as choose the music. Being able to have the celebration in my home parish of St. Augustine was extra special since they, along with the parishioners of St. Joseph, in Scott City, have been so very supportive of my formation during this journey. I was greatly humbled by the turnout. Janice and I were anticipating a large crowd due to the many family members and friends that had indicated that they would be coming, but the attendance was great. I also had a large turnout from the Diocese of Memphis with my classmates and the team of deacons who were responsible for my formation. Leading up to the day of my ordination I was an emotional rollercoaster experiencing feelings of anxiety, nervousness, happiness, and joy. But when I awoke on the day of my ordination, I had a great sense of consolation as I felt relaxed and comforted. I was at peace and ready to

When did you discern your calling?

I am a lifelong cradle Catholic, and my faith has always been important to me, but it was not until I attended a Cursillo weekend in November of 2018 that I discovered that I was not living my faith to the full potential that God was asking of me. I was falling way short and missing the mark when it comes to being the spiritual leader of my household. This encounter jumpstarted me on the path of trying to be a more positive and influential rolemodel for my wife and kids by developing a deeper prayer life, attending daily Mass more frequently, and trying to encourage others on the importance of having a strong relationship with our Savior. In the fall of 2019, I was initially approached by a friend with the statement, “I think you would make a good deacon” to which I replied, “I think you are crazy.” But I began taking this invitation to prayer and spoke with various priests and deacons in the diocese about this possible vocation. Over the next six months, one thing led to

I attended formation in the Catholic Diocese of Memphis (CDOM) where I was initially one of 37 men studying for the diaconate. Some of these individuals were Hispanic, some were retired, and some were still raising young families, but they all had a heart to serve. Oftentimes, I felt like I was the ‘Lone Ranger’ because I was the only man outside the Diocese of Memphis who was in formation. The rest of my classmates were all on-track to be ordained to serve in parishes throughout the Diocese of Memphis. I would drive to Memphis for one weekend per month from September to June and sit in class from Friday evening through Sunday afternoon with these men, and during this time, I developed a fraternal brotherhood with a group of men who are going to serve the Church well. Of the 37 of us who began our formation together, 20 of them were ordained on September 20, one week after me, for the Diocese of Memphis; one of them relocated to Tampa, FL, and was ordained on Oct. 4 for the Diocese of St. Petersburg, and 15 of them discerned out of the program along the way. The formation that took place on the weekends was open to spouses, so Janice joined me for several

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COME, AND YOU WILL SEE

Bp. Edward M. Rice

As we celebrate October, Respect Life Month, I thought I would include two poems from death row inmates. When I first read these poems, I was touched by their simplicity and clear imagery: a perfect design, in your momma’s womb, seek His will, your life’s made complete. Or : The hymns of your soul…so divine…sing the rhymes of a life.

Made in God’s Image

You are who you are for a reason. You’re part of an intricate plan. You’re a precious and perfect design, called forth as God’s woman and man. You look how you look for a reason. Almighty God makes no mistakes. He knit you together in your momma’s womb, you’re just what He wanted to make. The life you have is the one God chose, your time is laid out in his mind. Like a rose in His garden grows and grows, seek His will, and a treasure you’ll find.

Contemplate & support life during Respect Life Month

You are who you are for a reason. Rely on Jesus whose love is so sweet. Run the race just as it needs to be run In God’s love your life’s made complete.

How could thoughts so reflective come from men on death row? We are reminded that the Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches, “in the light of the Gospel, that the death penalty is inadmissible because it is an attack on the inviolability and dignity of the person”(CCC 2267). This same principle applies to the life of a child in the womb, “Direct abortion, abortion willed either as an end or a means, is gravely contrary to the moral law” (CCC 2271).

God’s Canticles

Chant the melodies of your heart, The hymns of your soul, Oh They’re so divine!

Breathe those Canticles of God into your lungs. They’ll have you sparkling His light. Sing the rhymes of a life

ANOTHER WALK THROUGH: ‘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.

January 28, 1994 A rancher asked the veterinarian for advice, “I’ve got a horse that sometimes walks OK but limps at other times. What can I do?” The vet replied, “The next time he walks OK, sell him!”

February 4, 1994 Dramatically, the priest began his homily, saying, “Everyone in this parish is going to die!” The priest couldn’t help but notice a man in the front row smiling broadly and perturbed by that reaction, asked the man why he was smiling. The man answered, “I don’t belong to this parish.”

February 11, 1994 A friend told a man quite advanced in years that it might be good for him to think about the hereafter. “I do, all the time,” the man replied. “No matter where I am—in the front room, the kitchen, upstairs, or in the basement—I ask myself, ‘Hey, what am I here after?’”

And just be what you’re born to be: A beautiful mind with a kind heart And compassionate spirit. In hope, it’ll be passed on.

The subject of life is love. And the objective is to love, Without faltering, all of humanity Without conditions or distinctions.

Ecstatic love and fervent passion For others I my shield, my armor; My longing for others to be.

Pure love for others Is your truest nature. I am not God, But God is in me –For it is written.

WORLD MISSION SUNDAY

October 19, 2025 is World Mission Sunday. Our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, encourages us to renew our missionary commitment through prayer, preachings, and financial support directed to churches, clinics, schools,

and pastoral programs in missionary territories. As Pope Leo stated, “The world needs the light of Christ.” “O Sacrament Most Holy, O Sacrament Divine, all praise and all thanksgiving, be every moment Thine.” ©TM

The month of October is both the month of the HOLY ROSARY and RESPECT LIFE MONTH, a time to reflect on the dignity of all human life and growing in our respect for the gift and Gospel of Life.

Tue., Oct. 21 Portageville St. Eustachius 5:30 pm Wed., Oct. 29 Springfield Immaculate Conception 6:00 pm*

*Mass Following

October Respect Life Month

During this month, Catholics across the United States recommit themselves to uplifting this core tenet of our faith: the belief that every life is sacred.

The death penalty falls squarely on the continuum of life issues. Taking the life of any person—innocent or guilty—is an affront to the sanctity of life. Such valuing of life is especially challenged this month, when the first execution under the tenure

of Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe is set to take place on October 14. The state is set to execute Lance Shockley for the murder of Sergeant Carl Dwayne Graham, a Missouri State Trooper.

Learn more about Lance Shockley and sign the petition to stop his execution at Missourians Against the Death Penalty, www.madpmo.org/ clemencycampaigns

Further details of the Church’s opposition to capital punishment,

as well as details regarding Archbishop Rivituso’s (formerly auxiliary bishop of St. Louis) recent visit with Lance Shockley, can be found at the Vatican News Website, www.vaticannews.va/en/ church/news/2025-10/respectlife-month-catholic-mobilizingnetwork-death-penalty.html.

If you would like to contact Governor Kehoe regarding Mr. Shockley’s execution, you can reach his office via phone at (573) 751-3222.

Diocesan Catholic educator recognized with National Christian Teacher of Year Award

By Paula Wright Springfield, MO

Stephany Vesely, principal of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton (SEAS) Catholic School, Springfield, MO, was recently awarded the Stanley M. Herzog Charitable Foundation National Christian Teacher of the Year Award. Of the 12 educators honored, Vesely was the only awardee from the state of Missouri recognized and the only educator from a Catholic school.

“Excellent teachers are the heartbeat of Christian education, and our 12 Teachers of the Year are living proof,” said Herzog Foundation President Darrell Jones. “Now in our fourth year of presenting these awards, we continue to be inspired by the dedication, creativity, and Christcentered excellence these educators bring to their classrooms. We look forward to sharing more about this year’s honorees in the coming months as we prepare to celebrate them at our annual Excellence in Christian Education event this fall.”

The 2025 Teachers of the Year were invited in late September to Washington, DC, for a “special weekend of professional development opportunities and public acknowledgment of their remarkable contributions to the field of Christian education.” Founded in December 2020, the charitable foundation is dedicated to “catalyzing and accelerating the development of quality Christ-centered K-12 education so that families and cultures flourish.”

“I was not aware of the award when I received the initial email from them telling me that I had been nominated,” said Vesely. “I had to fill out information about myself and submit a one-minute video on why I chose to teach in Christian education. I really didn’t think about it anymore

until I learned that I had been selected for this national recognition. I was the only Missouri Christian educator chosen and the only Catholic educator within the 12 educators awarded.”

In education for 24 years, this year marks Vesely’s 10th year of working in Catholic education. This is her first year as principal of SEAS. Prior to that, she was a third-grade teacher for the school. As an awardee, Vesely was recognized for her creative handson, project-based learning style and immersive entrepreneurial business model that teaches students aspects of business ownership and bringing products to market within the SEAS 3rd Grade Mini Mall, where proceeds benefit Catholic Charities of Southern Missouri. In addition, the award also brought attention to the contributions she has made as handler and owner of “Teddy,” the school’s therapy dog. This program has fostered a nurturing environment, created connections, and brought additional emotional support to students.

As part of the award gala and ceremony, Vesely received a beautiful glass statue featuring an apple and a cross to share with the school. The Herzog Foundation also gifted the school with a $2,500 donation.

“It has been such an honor, I don’t feel worthy! It was an amazing experience, and I am grateful for the recognition,” Vesely said. “The foundation paid for the trip and made it possible to attend. The Saturday night gala was held in the Museum of the Bible. I am still just shaking my head, it is crazy. It was really the coolest experience.”

Vesely’s family has been part of her celebration. She is married to Kyle, and they have three children: a son, Jordan, and daughters Madison and Gracyn.

“I love what the Herzog Foundation

TEDDY THE THERAPY DOG Stephany Vesely, principal of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton (SEAS) Catholic School, Springfield, MO, was recently awarded the Stanley M. Herzog Charitable Foundation National Christian Teacher of the Year Award. Among other accolades, the award brought attention to the contributions Vesely has made as handler and owner of “Teddy,” the therapy dog at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School, Springfield. This program has fostered a nurturing environment, created connections, and brought additional emotional support to students (Submitted photo)

is doing. Their mission is really to show that Christian education is so important. I know becoming a Catholic educator changed the trajectory of my life and my career,” Vesely said. “My husband and I realized we were at a point with our family where our faith was what we did on the weekends. It wasn’t until I started living it daily and teaching it that it just lit a fire.”

NATIONAL CHRISTIAN TEACHER OF THE YEAR Stephany Vesely, Principal SEAS Catholic School, is pictured with her husband, Kyle, after being presented with the National Christian Teacher of the Year Award – Herzog Foundation, on Sept. 27, during the gala held in the Museum of the Bible in Washington, DC. As part of the award gala and ceremony, Vesely received a beautiful glass statue featuring an apple and a cross to share with the school. The Herzog Foundation also gifted St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School, Springfield, with a $2,500 donation. (Submitted photo)

“I am so thankful I made the decision to teach in Catholic school, and we made the decision to send our kids to Catholic school,” Vesely said. “One of the things I loved so much when I started is that our kids got to be innocent so much longer. There are wonderful people, and wonderful educators in public schools but those kids are exposed to so much, it finds a way in. Your kids hear things; it is not their fault. As a teacher, I felt like my students got to be innocent longer

within the Catholic school. It allows them to live their faith, and it helps keep a biblical world-view a part of every single day.” ©TM

STANLEY M. HERZOG FOUNDATION FOR CHRISTIAN EDUCATION

Stanley (Stan) M. Herzog was a Christian businessman, philanthropist, father, and grandfather. In 1969 when Stan’s father founded Herzog Contracting Corp. in St. Joseph, MO, Stan began working as a foreman on small-scale asphalt paving projects. Over the next 50 years, the company grew to one of the largest private contractors in the country providing construction, operations, and maintenance services for railroads and transit clients.

to realizing this belief is the education of America’s children. Upon his passing in 2019, he left his wealth to the Stanley M. Herzog Foundation for Christian education, where his generosity lives on today. His desire was to spend the entire endowment within a 15-to20-year period, rather than building a long-term bureaucracy.

Stan was a generous man, donating millions of dollars to personal and political efforts over the span of his lifetime. He believed in an America where faith, family values, and hard work lead to spiritual and societal prosperity. A precious and critical piece

“Christian teachers are profoundly changing the world, and we want to give them the recognition they deserve. Each year, the Herzog Foundation recognizes individuals that embody excellence in Christian education. These individuals are the Herzog Foundation’s Christian Teachers of the Year, and they are honored at the Museum of the Bible in Washington, DC.” ©TM

of the classes, even though she was not responsible for completing any of the assignments.

Our studies were coordinated by Saint Meinrad School of Theology, in Saint Meinrad, IN, and were taught at a graduate level. The academic portion or our formation was very intense and challenging. Often, I would have to read a book, or two, for the upcoming class while trying to complete a paper for the previous class, and still work a full-time job, tend to my family, and help out within the parish when possible. In addition to the academics, we had various “internships” throughout the years of our formation that required us to assist in some form of catechesis within the parish, develop our pastoral care by making homebound and hospital visits, and participate in the planning, preparation, and celebration of baptisms and weddings. While the classroom work and internships were demanding and necessary, one of the best teaching moments I received came from Deacon Mark Kiblinger (St. Vincent de Paul Parish, Cape Girardeau, and Associate Director for the diocesan Permanent Diaconate) when he said, “The academics are important and there is a lot to be learned in the classroom to gain a great deal of head knowledge, but it is equally, if not more, important to have a heart of knowledge that will allow you to serve with compassion and mercy and to listen with empathy.” I took Deacon

Mark’s advice to heart and began making this a key area of my development so that individuals can experience Christ through my words and actions.

What are you looking forward to the most as a deacon?

I can still remember being an altar server in grade school and this is something that I really enjoyed. I like the idea of being able to assist my pastor at the altar and teach the youth of the parish how to serve at Mass with reverence. With that being said, I don’t have to be in the spotlight, nor do I desire to be in a position that seeks attention, fame, and glory. I am perfectly satisfied with doing tasks behind the scenes if that is where help is needed. My main objective is to serve God’s people with humility and love, and be a model of Christ the Servant. Our world is suffering so greatly from a lack of love and peace, and I strive to live in such a way that I am simply an instrument for God to reach others or for others to find their way to God through me. None of the work I do is about me, but instead, it is all for the Glory of God. As St. Mother Teresa said, “Not all of us can do great things, but we can all do small things with great love.”

What ministries are of interest to you?

Currently, I assist our parish Youth Group leaders in preparing our youth

for the sacrament of Confirmation. As we all know, this is such a pivotal age for children as they begin developing their own thought process and making their own decisions in life. I think it is important to have good role models in these positions because of the influence that we can have on them.

Janice and I have recently taken over Baptismal prep for couples who would like to have their child receive this first sacrament of initiation into the Church.

Our parish has been blessed to have Gary Ziegler lead our OCIA program for many years and he is looking to start slowing down and pass this torch on to someone else. It appears that I may be this someone else as I will begin assisting him with the OCIA program in preparing our catechumens to be accepted into the Church at Easter next year.

The one ministry that I somewhat “dreaded” to participate in during my formation was visiting homebound and hospital patients. I must admit that I was a little apprehensive about going into these environments and seeing people living with conditions that warrant this type of care. However, I have to say that this ministry brought so much joy to my heart. There was something special about walking in to visit with someone who just wanted someone to listen to them. They wanted to feel like they were loved and cared for, and by just simply being present to them, they felt this. Often times, I would leave these visits with a heart full of joy and believe that our time together did more good for me than the individual I was visiting.

What are your thoughts on what needs to happen to help grow faith and reverence for the Church?

Growing up, I was a very active and athletic youth. I grew up on a small farm where there were always chores to take care of. I loved to play sports –baseball, basketball, and football – and I had a

natural talent. While my love for sports was great and my parents were always supportive of this past time, our passion, and our chores, were never allowed to take a higher priority than our Mass attendance. I do not ever recall a time when Mom and Dad allowed us to miss Mass for any reason. If we were in a ball tournament, we found a Mass to attend. If we were on vacation or camping, we went to Mass. If we were sick, we had better be on our death bed, otherwise, we were going to Mass.

Unfortunately, very few parents

WHAT IS THE PERMANENT DIACONATE?

The Catechism of the Catholic Church 1570-1571 states:

“Deacons share in Christ’s mission and grace in a special way. The sacrament of Holy Orders marks them with an imprint (“character”) which cannot be removed and which configures them to Christ, who made himself the “deacon” or servant of all. Among other tasks, it is the task of deacons to assist the bishop and priests in the celebration of the divine mysteries, above all the Eucharist, in the distribution of Holy Communion, in assisting at and blessing marriages, in the proclamation of the Gospel and preaching, in presiding over funerals, and in dedicating themselves to the various ministries of charity.

Since the Second Vatican Council, the Latin Church has restored the diaconate “as a proper and permanent rank of the hierarchy,” while the Churches of the East had always maintained it. This permanent diaconate, which can be conferred on married men, constitutes an important enrichment for the Church’s mission. Indeed it is appropriate and useful that men who carry out a truly diaconal ministry in the Church, whether in its liturgical and pastoral life or whether in its social and charitable works, should “be strengthened by the imposition of hands which has come down from the apostles. They would be more closely bound to the altar and their ministry would be made more fruitful through the sacramental grace of the diaconate.”

WHO IS A DEACON?

• Ministry of the Word • Ministry of the Liturgy

• Ministry of Charity

Deacons are ordained to not only attend to the religious needs of people; they are specially ordained to attend to their human needs. Living out and promoting the Church’s teachings on social justice is a key part of being a deacon. A deacon shows by word and example the love of neighbor as oneself through humble service in the image of Christ the Servant.

today put such an emphasis on the importance of attending Mass. Mass has become secondary to pleasure and extracurricular activities. As a deacon, I have a responsibility to be a bridge between the secular world and the Church and constantly invite and encourage families to come back to Mass. I must remind parents that their #1 job here on earth is to get their children to heaven. How can we get to heaven if we don’t have a relationship with God, our Father, Creator of all Creation, God, the Son, Savior of all Creation, and God, the Holy Spirit, Advocate of all Creation?

What will your role be in light of our diocesan priorities of ‘Growing in Holiness, Forming Intentional Disciples and Being Sent to Witness’?

I believe that I have a very important duty and obligation to serve God’s people, both in and out of the Church. As I indicated earlier, Mary and the rosary have become pillars of my prayer life since attending Cursillo, and I have tried to help spread this devotion throughout the parish and my diaconate cohort to help others grow in their own holiness.

Another thing that Cursillo taught me is the importance of bringing Christ into our everyday environments. For me, one thing that means is being a witness to our employees and customers. In our business, we begin each day by reading a daily devotion and giving the guys something to reflect on throughout the day. It is just a short little message, but I believe it is an invitation for God to be present with us in the work that we will be doing that day. For some of our employees, this may be the only message about God that they hear or the only time that they spend anytime in prayer.

How do they see yourself assisting the diocese in moving from Maintenance to Mission?

The important thing is to always be ready and prepared for whatever is asked of me.

I am very thankful and appreciative of Deacon Dan Vaughn, Deacon Mark Kiblinger, Deacon Mike Fritz, and Deacon Walt Biri, the deacons in our diocese who are responsible for the permanent diaconate program here in Southern Missouri. These men have done a good job of growing the diaconate community in the diocese and I think this is important due to the priest shortage that we are experiencing. I am not advocating for any of their positions, but I would be interested in assisting them in developing men for the mission of serving those most in need. ©TM

DIOCESAN NEWS

DURING THIS EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL, FR. DAVID COON OFFERS THE FOLLOWING QUOTE FOR THE REFLECTION ON THE EUCHARIST:

“The Eucharist is the Sacrament of Love. It signifies love. It produces love. The Eucharist is the consummation of the whole spiritual life.” — ST. THOMAS AQUINAS

Father Coon is Pastor of Sacred Heart Parish, Dexter. He serves the Diocese as Priest Minister for Spiritual Deliverance & Exorcism and the Confraternity of Priest Adorers of the Eucharistic Face of Jesus.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Aurora—Holy Trinity Parish will offer a series of study group sessions, beginning Mon., Oct. 13, 6pm. The first session: Marriage, and its place in the Church; Mon., Oct. 20: Sanctity of Marriage, divorce, remarriage, and annulments; the final session will be Mon., Oct. 27: cohabitation before marriage and its effect on the persons involved, the church, and the community at large.

Dexter—Sacred Heart Parish invites you to its Annual Turkey and Ham Dinner on Sun., Nov. 2, 11am-1pm, in the parish hall. Ham, turkey & dressing, mashed potatoes & gravy, sweet potatoes, corn, green beans, rolls, drink & dessert. Cost: $14-adults; $7-children, ages 6-12 yrs.; under age 6-free. Drive-thru & carry-out meals are available with the adult ticket.

Monett St. Lawrence Fall Feast will be held Sun., Nov. 2, 11am1pm, at St. Lawrence Parish, located at 405 7th St. Turkey, ham, dressing, mashed potatoes & gravy, green beans, corn, salads, bread, and dessert—all homemade by the Parish Council of Women. Cost: $10-adults, $6-children, ages 5-11 yrs.

Jackson—The Knights of Columbus Ladies Auxiliary will host BUNCO, Sun., Nov. 2, at the Jackson Knights #6405 Upper Hall. Doors open at 12:30pm; play begins at 1pm., pre-registration is not needed. Cost is $10/person. Light snacks will be provided. Money raised will fund our scholarship program and other organizations such as Options for Women, Birthright, Veteran’s Home, and others. For more information, contact Deena at (573) 382-1745 or jacksonkcaux@gmail.com.

Jackson—Jackson Knights of Columbus #6405 will host a Fish & Chicken Dinner, Fri., Oct. 17, 4:30-7:30 p.m., in the lower KC

Hall. Fried fish, fried chicken, fries, hushpuppies, baked beans, slaw, homemade mac & cheese, tea & lemonade. Cost-$15. Dine-in or carry-out available.

Jackson—Jackson Knights of Columbus #6405 will have a Sausage & Pancake breakfast, Sun., Nov. 2, 7-11am. Homemade sausage, pancakes, eggs, hashbrowns, and biscuits & gravy. Cost-free-will offering, with proceeds to benefit the Jackson Ministerial Alliance food pantry. Taking orders for sausage—link and one-pound bulk packaging. For information or to order, contact the KofC Hall at (573) 243-5464 or kchalljacksonmo@att.net.

Leopold—St. John Parish Council of Catholic Women will host its annual Hotze Mission Breakfast, Sun., Oct. 19, 7:30-10:30am., at the Leopold Knights of Columbus Hall. Buffet breakfast, for your good-will donation, and bake sale. All proceeds benefit the Hotze Missions. For information, please contact Geri Geringer at (573) 2086445. Please join us as we continue a 70-year tradition of supporting this mission!

Marshfield— Holy Trinity Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus #10844 will have its Autumn Fish Frys beginning Fri., Sept. 26; and continuing on Fri., Oct. 10, and Fri., Oct. 24, 5-7pm, in the parish hall. Fried and/or baked fish, fries, hush puppies, green beans, cole slaw, and dessert! Cost: Adult-$12; child, ages 6-12 yrs.-$7; age five and under-free.

Ozark—The 2025 5K Shuffle will be held Sat., Oct. 25, at St. Joseph the Worker Church. Registration begins at 8am; race at 9am. Enjoy a FREE pancake breakfast after the run, courtesy of the Knights of Columbus! Cost is $30 per person; for groups of 10 or more, the rate is discounted to $20 per person. For

additional information and sign up: https://runsignup.com/Race/Info/ MO/Ozark/AllSaints5kShuffle

Sikeston—The Women of St. Francis Xavier Parish will have its annual (40+ years!) Chili & Soup Day, Fri., Nov. 14, 10:30am1:30pm, in the school gymnasium. Chili & soup, dessert & drink for $10.

Sikeston—St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church will host a Parish Mission with Fr. Frank DeSiario, CSP, Oct. 26-28, 2025. A gifted evangelizer and Eucharistic preacher, Fr. DeSiario will help us grow in hope and in the joy of sharing our faith. For more information, please call the parish office, (573) 471-2447.

Springfield—You are invited to join the Followers of Francis, which is the local fraternity of Secular Franciscans in the Springfield area, following Christ in the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi, every second Saturday of the month at Sacred Heart Parish, 11am-3pm for prayer and Scripture study. For more information, contact Chris Rice, Christoph.rice@ gmail.com or (417) 771-9604.

Webb City—Sacred Heart Catholic Church will hold its annual Turkey Dinner, Sat., Nov. 1, 11am-7pm and Sun., Nov. 2, 11am-5pm. Enjoy delicious turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes/gravy, green beans, roll and dessert while supporting the many functions of the parish. Carryout is available. Cost: Adults-$10, children-$5. Pre-sale tickets will be available in the Parish Hall after weekend Masses or by calling the Parish office during office hours at (417) 673-2044. More information may be found at http://www. sacredheartwebbcity.org/2025turkey-dinner.html.

Parishes and organizations are invited to submit notices of future events to be printed on a space-available basis. There is no fee

KNIGHTS DONATE BIBLES TO 5TH GRADERS

THE ST. MARY PARISH, JOPLIN, KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS COUNCIL #14096 presented Bibles that were blessed by Fr. Joseph Weidenbenner to the 5th grade class of St. Mary Catholic School. Pictured with the students were (front, left) Fred Wheeler, (back row) Fr. Joseph Weidenbenner, and past Grand Knight Robert Schroer. (Submitted photo)

JUBILEE OF HOPE PILGRIMAGE TO HOLY DOOR

PILGRIMS OF HOPE—Thirty-seven pilgrims from SS. Peter and Paul Parish, in Pulaskifield, and Holy Trinity Parish, in Aurora, and pastor, Fr. Paul Pudhota, journeyed to the Holy Door of St. Agnes Cathedral, in Springfield, on Sun., Oct. 5, to celebrate the Pilgrims of Hope Jubilee year. Afterward, the Rector of the Cathedral, The Very Rev. Lewis Hejna, blessed the pilgrims and they had a group picture taken. (Submitted photo)

All area Catholic 4th-8th grades are invited to Notre Dame Regional High School (NDRHS) as we welcome Bishop Edward Rice at 10 a.m. on Oct. 21 for a special Bishop’s Mass. Following Mass, all 8th grade students may participate in Notre Dame’s 8th Grade Day—an afternoon designed to give future Bulldogs a true taste of high school life. Students will enjoy icebreaker games led by current Notre Dame students, lunch in the cafeteria, and the excitement of an all-school pep assembly

at 1:30 p.m. Dismissal for 8th graders will be at 2 p.m. Even if your child attends a non-Catholic school, or if your school is not attending the Bishop’s Mass, you and your 8th grader are encouraged to join us for this special event. Notre Dame 8th Grade Day is the perfect opportunity to experience our welcoming community and vibrant school spirit.

RSVP to: Meg Garner, Director of Enrollment at meggarner@notredamecape. org. ©TM

DanielBelken

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.

Benton—St. Denis Home & School will host its 26th annual Winter Wonderland of Treasures craft show, Sat., Dec. 6, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., in the Parish Center. Interested in becoming a vendor? We welcome all talents— woodworking, art, jewelry, soaps, signs, candles, or other items. Booth or table rental available, for more information, text or call Crystal at (573) 264-1217.

Cape Girardeau—St. Mary Cathedral will hold its annual Craft & Bake Sale, Sat., Nov. 15, 7am-6pm, and Sun., Nov. 16, 7:30am-12-Noon, in the school gym. Lots of amazing homemade crafts, yummy baked goods, (including favorites of peanut brittle & cinnamon rolls), there will even be a section with second-hand treasures! Tickets will be available for a one-night stay at a Drury Hotel, $100 cash, a framed diamond dot picture, or a four-piece set of “The Greatest Story Ever Told” figurines.

Jackson—Immaculate Conception School will host its annual Fall Craft Fair on Sat., Nov. 8, 9am-3pm, in the school gym, located at 300 S Hope St. Over 50 vendors, with Christmas gift items, handmade crafts, woodworking, soap, home decor, jewelry, and more. Concessions, pulled-pork lunch, and bake sale available. Admission is $2 for ages 13 and up. For more information: iccraftshow@gmail.com.

Leopold—St. John PCCW will host its annual Country Christmas Home Tour, Sun., Dec. 14, 1-4pm. Tour five beautifully decorated homes, stop at the church, 3-4pm for Christmas organ music, followed by homemade soup and cookies, served next door. For more information, please contact Geri at (573) 208-6445.

Marshfield—Holy Trinity Parish is hosting its Holiday Craft Fair & Bake Sale, Sat., Nov. 8, 9am – 3pm. Offering a delightful array of unique handcrafted items and mouthwatering homemade treats. This event is perfect for getting into the holiday spirit and finding special gifts for your loved ones.

Springfield—St. Agnes Cathedral will hold its annual Holiday Market, Sat., Nov. 1, 9am.-4pm., and Sun., Nov. 2, 8:30am.-1pm, in the school gymnasium, located next door at The Catholic Center. There will be a variety

AROUND THE DIOCESE!

of crafts and other products for sale. For more information, contact Judy at (641) 751-6632, or judyhauschildt@gmail.com.

Springfield—Holy Trinity Parish Council of Catholic Women will hold its Fall Bazaar, Sat., Nov. 8, 9 am-5 pm and Sun., Nov. 9, 9 am-12 pm. Vendors will offer a wide variety of items, including original artwork and crafts; children and baby hats, blankets, and clothing; Christmas gifts and décor; jewelry; homemade candy, and hand-crafted items. Tickets available to purchase for a homemade quilt. Huge White Elephant Sale and Gardening Booth with lots of houseplants and gardening tools. Coffee & donuts available both mornings, lunch available on Saturday, from the Knights of Columbus-enchilada meal, beverage, dessert, hotdogs/chips too! Everyone Welcome…stop in and browse! For questions, contact Mary Tilton at (417) 496-8500, marymtilton@gmail. com or Jana Hukriede at (417) 840-4109, janahukriede@gmail.com.

Springfield—St. Elizabeth Ann Seton PCCW will hold its annual Fall Bazaar, Sat., Nov. 1, 9am-6pm & Sun., Nov. 2, 8am-1pm in the SEAS Pavilion and the gymnasium—located to the west of the main building. We have many returning vendors as well as new vendors: Come see us!

Springfield— Immaculate Conception Parish PCCW will hold its annual Holiday Sale, Sat., Nov. 8, 8 am-6pm and Sun., Nov. 9, 8am-1pm. Start your Christmas shopping at our Holiday Sale (huge White Elephant & Bake Sale) in Community Rooms A & B. There will also be breakfast items & lunch- sandwiches, soup & dessert served. For more information, call Sandie DeFrank (417) 300-1930. Beginning Oct. 20, we are accepting clean and working items you would like to donate for the White Elephant sale. Please, no clothing or electronics.

Springfield—Sacred Heart Parish will hold its 2025 Vendor & Craft Sale, Fri., Dec. 5, 5-9pm and Sat., Dec. 6, 10am-4pm. You are invited to a holiday shopping extravaganza. Get all your holiday gift shopping done under one roof! We will be selling our Sacred Heart holiday cookies “By the Pound.” This event is being held in conjunction with the Midtown Victorian Christmas Homes Tour.

POPE LEO TELLS

MIGRATION ADVOCATES CHURCH MUST NOT BE ‘SILENT’ ON THE ISSUE

Washington

Pope Leo XIV expressed solidarity with the immigrant community in the US and urged the Church to be a united voice on their behalf in an Oct. 8 private audience with immigration advocates. Bishop Mark J. Seitz of El Paso, TX, told OSV News that in a brief meeting with the pontiff, they were able to tell him about “our present situation and get his advice and hopefully his words of support, which I think we did.” Bishop Seitz, who chairs the US Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Migration, said Pope Leo “encouraged a conference of bishops

to speak together and presumably individually as well, about this issue.” “ We want to stay as much as we can above the political fray,” said Bishop Seitz. “We want to speak to the Gospel and we want to continue our work as leaders in the Church, and he was very much, I think, in agreement with that, that we stay rooted in the Gospel, and the teachings of the Church.”

Dylan Corbett, executive director of the Hope Border Institute, said the groups of advocates brought the pope messages “from California, from Texas, from Iowa, from New Jersey, from New York, from Florida, communities across the country.” ©OSV News

MIGRANTS’ LETTERS TO POPE

Bishop Mark J. Seitz of El Paso holds a bundle of letters to Pope Leo XIV from migrants in the United States before presenting them to the pope Oct. 8, 2025. The note, in Spanish, says, “Pope Leo, please listen to the cry of those who are being marginalized.” (CNS photo/courtesy Hope Border Institute)

M c AULEY CATHOLIC SENIOR NAMED 2026 NATIONAL MERIT SEMIFINALIST

Joplin, MO

McAuley

Catholic

High School

senior Franklin “Trae” Veer has been named a semifinalist in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program.

Veer is among 16,000 high school seniors who are Semifinalists. Veer continues on in the competition for some 6,870 National Merit Scholarships to be offered next spring.

In addition to Veer being named a Semifinalist, McAuley Catholic’s Maxwell Anreder was named a Commended Student in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program. Anreder is recognized for his exceptional academic promise, demonstrated by his outstanding

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.

performance on the qualifying test used for program entry.

Students entered the National Merit Scholarship Program, a nationwide competition for recognition and awards conducted by National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC), by taking the 2024 Preliminary SAT/ National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test last October. In April, NMSC identified the 50,000 highest scorers. From that list, 16,000 are designated Semifinalists.

ABOUT JOPLIN AREA CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

Founded in 1885 by the Sisters of Mercy of St. Catherine McAuley, the Joplin Area Catholic Schools (JACS) serves the greater Joplin community to educate Catholic and non-Catholic children from Early Learners (two-year-olds) through grade 12 at St. Mary Preschool and Elementary School, St. Ann Catholic School, St. Peter Middle School, and McAuley Catholic High School. Joplin Area Catholic Schools provide an outstanding academic and Christcentered educational foundation that forms our present students of today into remarkable servant-leaders of tomorrow. For more information or to inquire about enrollment, visit www.JACSS.org. ©TM

MO BISHOPS ISSUE STATEMENT ON IMMIGRATION

World Day of Migrants and Refugees

We, the Catholic bishops of Missouri, are aware of the growing anxiety and uncertainty in our country surrounding the issue of immigration. Therefore, in the context of the World Day of Migrants and Refugees and the Jubilee of Migrants, we wish to emphasize a central truth of our Christian faith: that every human person is created in the image and likeness of God and thus possesses an inherent dignity that is inviolable.

Many individuals and families have come to America fleeing violence, poverty, and extraordinary hardship. These are not mere statistics, but brothers and sisters in the human family, members who belong to and contribute to our local communities, parishes, and our nation.

As shepherds of the Church in Missouri, we support secure borders that ensure the safety and welfare of our nation. We also stand in solidarity with immigrants and their families, especially those who have already suffered so much in search of stability, peace, and safety.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church (n. 2241) teaches that a society oriented to the common good must address the issue of immigration in a manner that is both just and merciful. Civil authorities are duty-bound to

LOS OBISPOS DE MISSOURI

protect citizens and ensure the rule of law, especially against evildoers. Yet it is equally just, and profoundly Christian, to distinguish between violent criminals and those who are fleeing persecution or crushing poverty to seek a better life. As Pope St. John Paul II wisely stated, “His irregular legal status cannot allow the migrant to lose his dignity, since he is endowed with inalienable rights, which can neither be violated nor ignored.” (Message for World Migration Day, 1996)

We urge our elected officials at every level to reflect this truth in policy by pursuing comprehensive immigration reform that secures our borders while offering a just and merciful pathway for those who are already part of our communities. It is time to move beyond temporary fixes to a solution that honors the dignity of all and provides security and protects the sovereignty of our nation. Both are necessary for a prosperous future.

While this challenge is complex, we cannot remain indifferent. Our Lord reminds us, “Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40). Let us pray fervently for our nation’s leaders, that they may govern with wisdom and compassion, and for those who flee persecution and hardship in search of safety. Let us educate ourselves on what the Church teaches about migration and the dignity of the human person. And let us extend the hand of charity to migrants and refugees in our neighborhoods, schools, and parishes.

May Our Lady of Guadalupe, Patroness of the Americas, intercede for us. – CATHOLIC BISHOPS OF MISSOURI ©TM

Jornada Mundial del Migrante y del Refugiado

Nosotros, los obispos católicos de Missouri, somos conscientes de la creciente ansiedad que existe en nuestro país ante la incertidumbre que rodea la situación migratoria. Por eso, en el marco de la Jornada Mundial del Migrante y del Refugiado y del Jubileo de los Migrantes, queremos recalcar una verdad fundamental de nuestra fe cristiana: que cada persona humana ha sido creada a imagen y semejanza de Dios, y, por tanto, posee una dignidad intrínseca e inviolable.

Numerosas familias han venido a los Estados Unidos huyendo de la violencia, de la pobreza y de la adversidad. Estas personas no son meras estadísticas en un papel, sino nuestros hermanos y hermanas, miembros de la misma familia humana, que contribuyen al florecimiento de nuestras comunidades, de nuestras parroquias y de nuestra nación.

Como pastores de la Iglesia en el estado de Missouri, respaldamos la necesidad de contar con fronteras seguras que garanticen la protección y el bienestar del país, al tiempo que manifestamos nuestra solidaridad con los inmigrantes y sus familias, especialmente con aquellos que han

padecido enormemente en su búsqueda por una vida estable y pacífica.

El Catecismo de la Iglesia Católica enseña que una sociedad orientada al bien común debe tratar el asunto de la inmigración conjuntando la justicia con la misericordia. Es verdad que las autoridades civiles tienen la responsabilidad de proteger a la ciudadanía y de hacer valer las leyes, especialmente contra los malhechores. No obstante, es igualmente justo, y profundamente cristiano, distinguir entre criminales violentos y aquellos que han escapado de la persecución y de la miseria en su peregrinaje hacia un futuro mejor. Como el papa san Juan Pablo II declaró con sabiduría en su Mensaje para la Jornada Mundial del Emigrante 1996, “la condición de irregularidad legal no permite menoscabar la dignidad del emigrante, el cual tiene derechos inalienables, que no pueden violarse ni desconocerse”. Instamos a nuestros representantes en todos los niveles de gobierno para que plasmen estas enseñanzas en políticas públicas, mediante una reforma migratoria que asegure nuestras fronteras y ofrezca un camino justo y misericordioso para que quienes ya

forman parte de nuestras comunidades puedan regularizar su situación migratoria en los Estados Unidos. Es tiempo de dejar atrás los remiendos temporales y transitar hacia una solución que garantice seguridad en la frontera y proteja la soberanía de nuestro país, a la par que respete la dignidad de todos quienes ahí viven. Ambas cosas son necesarias para un futuro próspero.

Aunque el reto es complejo, no podemos permanecer indiferentes, pues Nuestro Señor nos recuerda que cada vez que auxiliamos al más pequeño de nuestros hermanos, lo hacemos también con Él (Mt 25,40). Oremos tanto por los líderes de nuestra nación, para que gobiernen con sabiduría y compasión, como por aquellos que escapan de la persecución y la adversidad en búsqueda de seguridad. Estudiemos lo que la Iglesia enseña sobre la inmigración y la dignidad de la persona humana, y extendamos una mano caritativa a los inmigrantes y refugiados de nuestros barrios, escuelas y parroquias.

Que Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, Patrona de América, interceda por nosotros. – OBISPOS CATÓLICOS DE MISSOURI ©TM