THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 46, NO. 7 | SEPTEMBER 27, 2024
Community support makes this school
EXCELLENT
By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org
A
TCHISON — “It’s our mission to help kids to grow in their faith,” said Kevin Lunsford, principal of St. Benedict School here. “That’s first and foremost, every day. “We want to shape those minds and hearts to be better Christians out there in the world.” This daily commitment is one of the many reasons St. Benedict has been named this year’s Catholic Education Foundation (CEF) Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann School of Excellence. “We are incredibly proud to recognize St. Benedict,” said CEF executive director Vincent Anch. “Their faculty and staff have shown extraordinary dedication to ensuring every student receives
a well-rounded education that prepares them for future success. “Their commitment to academic rigor, faith-based learning and community service embodies the mission and values of CEF.” The school’s reaction to the announcement was one of excitement — and humility. “Humble, actually, just because we know how many great schools are out there,” said Lunsford. On Sept. 11, the school welcomed the archbishop and representatives from the CEF for a visit. Students greeted the guests with heartfelt enthusiasm, proudly holding up welcome and thank-you signs. “It was one of the more moving things I’ve seen as part of CEF over the last >> See “SCHOOL” on page 7
I THANK THE LORD WHO ALLOWED ME TO DO AS AN ELDERLY POPE WHAT I WOULD HAVE LIKED TO DO AS A YOUNG JESUIT! I WANTED TO BE A MISSIONARY. POPE FRANCIS
Read all about Pope Francis’ Asia-Pacific trip on pages 8-9
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD
Above, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, followed by St. Benedict School principal Kevin Lunsford, walked through a corridor of thank-you signs made by students to welcome guests from the Catholic Education Foundation. St. Benedict has been named this year’s CEF School of Excellence. Left, second grader Xavier Haroldson holds up his sign of gratitude for the Catholic Education Foundation. Many St. Benedict students benefit from CEF scholarships. CEF board chair RJ Gildea called St. Benedict School “the heartbeat” of Atchison.