We seek God's healing love and share that love with all
by growing in relationship with God, each other, and our neighbors.
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Loving Our Enemies
A message from Fr. John Spicer, Rector
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People often ask, “What can we do about the hostility and divisiveness in our country today?” In addition to praying (which is always the first and best answer), here’s a way to make a difference: Show up, be curious, listen, and speak in love.
Loving our enemies is clear call from Jesus, but that doesn’t make it easy to understand or to do. So, we’re offering a four-week learning opportunity at Trailside Thursdays starting Oct. 23 that will give us the chance to engage this topic, both in theory and practice.
In terms of class content, we’ll look at what Scripture has to say about loving our enemies, in both the Old and New Testaments. We’ll also look at the theology of loving enemies by reflecting on reconciliation as the Church’s mission. And we’ll apply Christian ethics to the ways we treat those we see as enemies, including responses such as capital punishment and war.
But we won’t just think about these issues. The first session will be led by parishioner and counselor Ann Rainey, who will share a process for talking about contentious topics and give us an opportunity to practice. Then, in the next three sessions, after a presentation about Scripture, theology, or ethics, we’ll practice civil discourse about loving our enemies. As we’ve done in the past, our ground rules will give participants a few minutes each to share what’s on their hearts and minds, with no responses from others. To me, the richest question here isn’t “what do you think?” but “what in your experience leads you to believe what you believe?” Learning why people believe what they do is the key to honoring their humanity and their belovedness in God’s eyes.
But why do this? By practicing these skills of listening in curiosity and sharing lovingly the truth as we understand it, we can claim a sense of agency in modeling Christlike behavior at a time when there seems to be so little we can do to be instruments of healing. And I think it’s important that the Church claim its role as a place where civil conversation can happen. To make the class a safe space, we won’t livestream or record these sessions on loving our enemies.
So, I invite you to mark your calendars for Thursday evenings Oct. 23 through Nov. 13, 6 to 7:15 p.m. at HJ’s. And I invite you to come with a heart that puts curiosity first.
| | | | Call our toll-free number 800-808-1625 to listen to worship on your phone! | | |
Stewardship Season: Giving & Receiving – Let Blessings Flow
Our stewardship season is underway! This six-week sermon series invites us to deepen our faith and grow as stewards of God’s abundant blessings. Together, we’re exploring stories of healing, gratitude, humility, and hope — discovering what it means to both give and receive from God.
Each household has received (or will receieve) a devotional booklet written by our clergy, vestry, and staff, with daily reflections and prayers to guide us through the season. As we journey together, we’re invited to practice gratitude, generosity, and trust in God’s provision.
This week, we give thanks and praise to God, recognizing that all we have flows from God’s goodness. Next Sunday, we’ll hear stories of persistence and justice as we reflect on how we are called to share the blessings God has given us.
Our theme, Giving & Receiving: Let Blessings Flow, reminds us that when we live with open hands and hearts, God’s grace moves through us, blessing our lives and the world around us.
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Evan Short: Tomorrow Morning’s Featured Artist – 10:15 Service
We’re delighted to welcome Evan Short as the featured artist for tomorrow’s 10:15 service. Evan, a St. Andrew’s Staff Singer, is an Artist Certificate Candidate at the University of Missouri–Kansas City Conservatory. He holds a Master of Arts in Bassoon from Washington State University and a Bachelor of Music in both Vocal and Bassoon Performance from Southeast Missouri State University. In addition to his musical training, Evan has also studied Management and Entrepreneurship, building skills that will support his future work on the business side of the music industry.
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Trinity Guild Fundraiser
The women of the Trinity Guild do a fundraiser each year to raise money for outreach. Last year we had great success by asking our members to donate damaged or unused sterling silver or gold jewelry or other items (sorry, no silver plate). We all have the odd earring that’s lost its mate or a chain with a broken clasp. Last year we collected items just from our own members and raised over $4,000. This year, we are going to open it up to the whole church. With your help, we will do even better! There will be a box in the Narthex before and after services for any donations between Sept. 21 and Oct. 26.
Last year’s fundraiser helped:
$1,000 Operation Breakthrough & Sister Berta’s Friendship Circle
$1,000 St. James Church and Pet ministry
$1,000 I-58
$1,000 Reconciliation Service
$500 Kansas City Community Garden
$500 Gordon Parks Elementary Schools
$500 Benjamin Banneker Elementary Schools
$500 Bloom International
$250 Haskell Indian Nations University
$250 Lakeside Nature Center
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$6,500 total
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Ride Ministry at St. Andrew’s
Thanks to a generous estate gift from parishioner Tina Norton, we’re excited to launch a new Ride Ministry to help parishioners get to worship, church events, and even medical appointments. In partnership with Lyft, rides will be available at no cost to you.
To request a ride, simply email rides@standrewkc.org (or call the church office if email is a challenge) with your name, phone number, pickup location, destination, and times. You can also complete an online form here.
Mtr. Rita Kendagor and Brittany Conge will coordinate your ride and ensure you’re connected with a driver.
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Art Guild Call for Artists
Art has always been a meaningful part of life at St. Andrew’s—from our stained glass and sacred objects to the rotating exhibits at HJ’s Art Gallery. In that spirit, we’re revitalizing our Art Guild to renew our commitment to creativity as a form of spiritual expression.
We currently have 2 calls for artists open:
1) 2026 exhibition season for solo or collaborative submission - Deadline October 31
2) A new group exhibition titled “Reframing Beauty in Darkness” - Deadline October 31
Apply for these opportunities here.
| | Can't make it to church this Sunday? Remember that St. Andrew's broadcasts each worship service to our website, our YouTube Channel, and our Facebook page. You can also catch the sermon the following day on our social media channels. Check out our Linktree for your preferred way to connect with worship: http://linktr.ee/standrewskc. | | | |
Jesus With You . . . at Home
If you're worshipping at home, you can pick up consecrated wafers to use during our celebrations of Holy Eucharist. They're available in a basket in the narthex, or from the office, anytime the church is open. If getting out is a challenge, we'll be happy to deliver wafers to you. Just contact Mary Sanders (by email or at 816-523-602, ext. 110) about arranging delivery.
If you need help connecting to St. Andrew’s Online to participate in worship opportunities, but your computer is giving you trouble, just contact Deacon Adam James or 816-352-2742 for assistance.
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Hearing-Assist Devices
You may have noticed a stand of headphones as you come in from the porte-cochere on Sundays. These are hearing-assist devices that amplify the sound system during worship. If you would like to use one, just pick it up as you come in!
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Volunteers Needed - November Opportunities at St. James
We will join St. James twice this November to bring hope to the community and share holiday meals.
Wednesday, November 19th: We will join St. James in serving a holiday meal to the community. 10 volunteers are needed. Volunteers may be asked to setup, serve food, or help clean up. One shift available, starting at 5:30 p.m. This event is about community connection and fellowship- volunteers are welcome to sit down to enjoy a meal during their shift.
Week of November 22nd: There is an opportunity to package the meal kits that will be given out at Connecting Community. This will be a weekday morning activity- day will be determined based on volunteer availability.
Saturday, November 22nd: We will join St. James at their Connecting Community event again this year. Sign up to work the hygiene/pet food distribution. One shift is available 8:30-11:00.
Visit the Jewell Room after the services tomorrow to sign up, or contact Janet Kelley.
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November Connecting Community Turkey Fundraiser
This November, we will distribute holiday meal kits as part of our Connecting Community event with St. James Church. A $50 donation will provide one family a complete holiday meal kit including turkey and a variety of classic sides.
To contribute:
- Write a check to St. Andrew’s (memo: November Connecting Community)
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Give online at standrewkc.org/give and select “designated”- typing “November Connecting Community” as the memo.
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Give with Venmo to @StAndrews-EpiscopalChurch.
Donations are needed by November 11th to help underwrite the cost of the meal kits. More information to come about this event and how to get involved.
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Andie’s Pantry & Banneker Fund
Benjamin Banneker Elementary is a Title 1 school, which requires at least 40% of students to qualify for assistance based on financial need. At Banneker, 97% of families qualify, allowing all students to receive free breakfast and lunch. The school provides additional support through a counselor, a restorative justice coordinator, reading and math interventionists, and high-dosage tutoring. Banneker is also designated as a Comprehensive school due to low student academic achievement, a challenge we are committed to improving. Each month, we meet with Dr. Bullard, principal, to learn more about the needs of students and families.
Andie’s Pantry: This program collaborates with Banneker four times a year to help families with the rising cost of groceries. Support options include meeting families at the grocery store to pay for their items, fulfilling specific grocery orders for delivery, or shopping together as a family. STA contributes $175 per grocery visit, with the program funded through generous donations. We currently support over 40 families, benefiting more than 160 children. Increased volunteer participation allows us to expand our reach.
The Banneker Fund: This fund assists families facing challenges with utility, rent, or mortgage payments. In partnership with the school, families seeking help connect with school adminsitrators, who coordinates requests with STA. The fund provides $300 every six months, once per year, paid directly to the service provider. Assistance is available only once per year per family.
Teacher & Staff Support: The teachers and administrators at Banneker are devoted to the well being of their students, and we think it is important to support them in their work. We provide teacher appreciation treats several times a year, encouragement, and support behavior initiatives, including the Bulldog Bookstore.
If you are interested in supporting or want to learn more, please contact Melissa Rock at 913-226-7448, or Allison Fikejs.
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Tour Gordon Parks Elementary
Join us in walking the hallways and peeking into the classrooms of our church sponsored school, Gordon Parks Elementary. Learn about the demographics of its students, how the school meets the needs of the children and their families, and hear about the academic success of the students. Along the way, experience the smiles, little waves or even a hug. Please join me in taking this tour on Thursday, October 16th, at 9 a.m. You are invited to stay afterwards to learn about volunteer opportunities. Please RSVP to Karen Lundgren by Monday, October 13th.
** If you are unable to attend and would like to learn more about the school and ways to volunteer, please contact Karen Lundgren.
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Gordon Parks Trunk or Treat
Volunteers needed! If you are interested in bringing some Halloween spirit to the students and families of Gordon Parks, please reach out to Karen Lundgren.
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New Thursday Offering: Learning to Love Our Enemies
There will be no Trailside this week, but join us Oct. 23 as we begin a new four-week series: Loving Our Enemies Together, we’ll explore what Scripture, theology, and Christian ethics teach about loving those with whom we disagree—and how we can practice civil conversation rooted in curiosity, compassion, and respect. The first session will feature parishioner and counselor Ann Rainey, who will guide participants in learning and practicing a process for engaging difficult topics. Gather with us Thursdays, Oct. 23–Nov. 13, 6–7:15 p.m. at HJ’s, as we reflect, listen, and grow together in Christlike love.
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Trinity Guild Meeting and Luncheon
All women of the church, and their friends, are invited to join us on Thursday, October 23 for the next Trinity Guild meeting. Bishop Amy will be joining us for an informal discussion, followed by a short meeting and a delicious lunch. Please RSVP to Jean Kiene at jtk810@aol.com.
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Guns to Gardens
Following up on the Diocese of West Missouri’s Faith and Firearms gun-safety forum, Central Presbyterian in Kansas City is offering Guns to Gardens: Safe Surrender Event, where people can dispose of unwanted firearms safely, responsibly, and anonymously. The purpose is to prevent unwanted guns from falling into the hands of perpetrators of violence. The event is 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at Central Presbyterian, 2501 Campbell St. in Kansas City. For more information, visit https://www.centralpreskc.org/guns-to-gardens.
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Sunday Morning Artist Series
Join us for St. Andrew’s Sunday Morning Artist Series, featuring some of Kansas City’s finest musicians. At select 10:15 a.m. services, guest artists will offer the prelude and join the Parish Choir as soloists for the morning anthem. Upcoming performers include Evan Short (bassoon), Omri Barak (trumpet), John Eadie (cello), SunHo Kim (violin), Benjamin Banci (horn), and Elena Lence Talley (clarinet). Learn more at standrewkc.org/music.
| | Children, Youth & Young Adult Ministry | | Contact Veronica Wiebold for questions about children, youth, or young adult ministries. | | |
Sunday School
Our classrooms are located in the Children’s Wing. Signs in the church entryway will help you find your way to each room. Each room is identified by a brightly colored door—look for the matching heart color to help guide you:
- ❤️ Nursery (Infant–3 years) – Christa McLaughlin
- 💛 Yellow Room (3yrs -Pre-K) – Sally Cox
- 💚 Green Room (Kindergarten–1st Grade) – Sarah Thompson
- 💙 Blue Room (2nd–4th Grade) – Veronica Wiebold
Click here for the Children's Ministry Newsletter!
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We're currently refreshing our approach to 20s & 30s programming!
Sunday calendar offerings will pause while we explore new formats to better serve our young adult community. Stay tuned for fellowship opportunities and social gatherings later this fall!
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Loving Our Enemies
Thursdays, 6 to 7:15 p.m., HJ’s
Café 9:15
Sunday morning, 9:15-10 a.m.
Christian Journey
Sunday, 8:45-10 a.m.
Men's Lectionary Group
Thursday, 7:30-8:30 a.m.
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How the Bible Came to Be
Fridays, 10:30-11:30 a.m.,
Sacred Spaces
Tuesdays, 6:00 p.m.
Tai Chi for Beginners
Monday, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Good Book Club
Daily
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The Good Book Club: Faithful Living
Through Oct. 17, we’ll read four letters from St. Paul to Christian communities he founded (although one letter may have been written by a later follower of Paul). These works—1 Thessalonians, Galatians, Philippians, and Colossians—let us overhear one side of Paul’s multifaceted conversations with people he gathered in Christ. Paul cajoles, berates, and inspires his congregations as he tries to guide them, and us, in the theology and daily practice of following the way of Jesus. Each day, you’ll get a text or email with a brief summary of the daily reading, along with a link to that day’s verses. To sign up for the Good Book Club, just email Fr. John (frjohn@standrewkc.org).
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You can mail your gifts to the church, give online, or text STANDREWKC to 73256.
Send a Venmo gift to @StAndrews-EpiscopalChurch. Be sure to notate your intention for the gift.
| | St. Andrew's is here for you. | | |
Please remember that St. Andrew's is here for you. If you are in need or you are aware of another parishioner in need of assistance, please email Mtr. Rita Kendagor, assistant rector. You can also submit a request online or call the church office at 816-523-1602.
Send us your prayer requests through a form, our Facebook page,
or by texting PRAYER to 816-312-5152.
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Kaden
Penny
Cheryl
Maggie R.
Larry S.
Kathleen S.
Tom
Carol
Gretchen
Andrew
Dennis
Amanda & Baby
Stefani
Steve
Frances
Tim
Carolyn H.
Bret
Robbie
Jack
Rozzie
Cindy
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Thomas
Shana
Ernestine
Adrienne
Alexis
Sandy
Susie
Brian
Haley
Kent & Nora
Donna
Tucker
Matthew
Don
Linny
Moses
Reed
Marion
Abby
Peter
Gail
Sue
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Don
Judy
Mark
Alan
Shannon
David P.
Jamie P.
Taylor M.
Mason & family
Jim
Grant
Carrie
Jerold & Isaac
Laura (Lolly)
Frank
Peggy
DeVette
| | If you wish to add or remove a name, please notify Erin Lemanski no later than Sunday at noon for the Prayer List to be updated each week. Names will be listed for six months, unless otherwise stated. Thank you! | | |
Worship is in person and livestreamed each Sunday. Daily prayer is available in the Pray at 8 Facebook group at 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
Friday at 12 p.m. – Noon Eucharist – Watch here
Sunday at 8 a.m. – Rite I Holy Eucharist – Watch here
For those who find spiritual comfort and strength in the rich Elizabethan language of centuries-old worship, our early-morning service of prayer, Scripture, a sermon, a musical solo, and time-honored hymns, is the perfect way to start your Sabbath.
Sunday at 10:15 a.m. – Rite II Holy Eucharist – Watch here
Worship the Lord in the beauty of Scripture, a sermon, and prayers for ourselves and our world. Glorious hymns, organ, and choral music intertwine with the spoken parts of our celebration. We offer online Children’s Chapel via Zoom before 10 a.m.; and in-person Sunday school during the 10 a.m. service.
Daily at 8 a.m. and 8 p.m – Pray at 8
Join us in the Pray at 8 Facebook group. In just 10 to 15 minutes, you can stop, breathe, and find God’s refreshment to support you through your day or carry you on to bed. It’s a beautiful way to remember that God is our constant helper and strength.
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Bulletin & Messenger Deadline
The publication deadline for the Saturday Messenger and Sunday bulletin is on Sunday at noon one week before publication.
Material received after Sunday at noon will be added to the next week's publications.
Please submit material to Erin Lemanski (erin@standrewkc.org)
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