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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Open Ears and Hearts
A message from Fr. John Spicer, Rector
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When you hear the same message from different sources, it’s probably smart to pay attention. For me, this week, that message has been about trust.
First, if you’re following the daily readings and reflections in Five Minutes With God, you’ve probably noticed this theme of trust in the Scripture we’ve been sampling for this Sunday. Abram is out there somewhere in southeastern Turkey, an old man minding his own business, when the God is Israel taps him on the shoulder and calls him to uproot his life. “Go,” God says, “for by going you will find blessings for yourself, and you’ll bless peoples you don’t even know.” And, stunningly, Abram goes. The psalm picks up the theme, reminding us to rest in the assurance that our help comes from the Lord, who never fails to watch over us. In Romans, the apostle Paul reflects on Abram’s example, famously noting that it wasn’t Abram’s actions but his faith that put him into right relationship with God. And then Jesus picks up the theme in John’s Gospel, teaching an expert in Jewish law that keeping the law isn’t nearly as important as trusting God to fill us with the Spirit of new life. Even I can hear a common theme.
But the message didn’t stop there. This Thursday, in our Episcopal 101 class, the schedule called for me to lead a session on creeds and covenants. We had great discussion of what we claim about the nature of God and how that affects the way we commit to live our lives. But, deep down, what we were really talking about was more than just what we claim about God—propositional knowledge. What underlies our creeds and our covenants is trust. You can even find it in the history of that word, creed. It comes from the Latin credo, meaning, “I believe.” Now, we modern (really, postmodern) people often hear that in terms of claims we hold to be true: “I believe Jesus was God’s Son” or “I believe Jesus rose from the dead.” But that verb, credo, comes from the Indo-European root kerd, relating to the heart (think of cardiac). So, the root of “I believe” actually relates to what I hold in my heart – what I trust.
There’s that theme again – apparently, something I needed to hear this week. Maybe you do, too. What’s God saying to you about trust – where it lies, what it offers, how deeply you hold it? Keep your ears, and your heart, open.
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HJ’s Café Update
Thanks to all who came out for Wednesday’s listening session about our HJ’s Café ministry. As you know, café service has been suspended because of a series of incidents including violence, drug use, and first-responder calls. At the session, we heard from stakeholders including Brew Crew baristas, exercise-class participants, book-group members, Bible-study members, Scout parents, Friday-morning jam session players, Trolley Track Trail users, and staff. We documented all the input we received about how HJ’s has been living into its mission of providing generative welcome to connect St. Andrew’s with our neighborhood, as well as concerns about how security issues have been complicating that goal. For now, café service remains limited to times of other building use, including the Brookside Farmers Market. Staff and the Vestry will be considering a way forward in the next few weeks. – Fr. John
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Featured Artist: Elena Lence Talley, Clarinet
Join us on Sunday, March 1 as we welcome Elena Lence Talley of the Kansas City Symphony as our featured artist. Principal Music Librarian of the Symphony since 1992 and an accomplished clarinetist, Elena brings a deep love of chamber music and a wealth of musical experience to her performance. We’re delighted to share this special musical offering with you.
| | Call our toll-free number 800-808-1625 to listen to worship on your phone! | | |
What is the Season of Lent?
Lent is a 40-day journey of reflection and renewal, rooted in Jesus’ time in the wilderness, that invites us to step away from distractions and ask deeper questions: Who am I, and who is God calling me to be? In the Episcopal Church, we mark this season with purple, a color that symbolizes reflection, transformation, and the deep work of the soul. Lent isn’t just about giving something up; it’s about making space for prayer, self-examination, and acts of love. Wherever you are on your spiritual path, Lent isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about showing up, asking the questions, and letting God meet you on the journey.
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Lenten Sermon Series: Following Jesus Together
In our Sunday Scripture readings this Lent, we’ll hear some of the greatest stories about Jesus: standing up to Satan in the wilderness, teaching the experts how to live by the Spirit, healing the Samaritan woman’s broken self-image, giving sight to a man born blind, and raising Lazarus from the dead. How can we follow where Jesus is leading us? When we try to travel alone, we’re more likely to get lost or stumble on the rocks along the path. But when we turn to those alongside us, the way becomes much more clear … and more life-giving. Through the Sundays of Lent, we’ll find the path Jesus is setting before us, consider how we might be tempted to stray, and give thanks for the companions God gives us on the way.
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Lenten Devotional: Five Minutes With God
Coming soon: Our Lenten devotional, Five Minutes With God, invites you into a simple, meaningful daily practice without adding burden to your plate. With brief readings and reflection questions, the guide helps you engage Scripture, prepare for Sunday worship, and grow in relationship with God—both in personal prayer and through conversation with others. If you haven't received a copy in the mail, pick one up in the entryway as we begin our Lenten journey together.
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Lenten Study Opportunity
Do you have a love–hate relationship with Lent? Are you looking for something deeper than a “giving up chocolate” approach? Join us for a four-week Lenten exploration of spiritual practices from The Sacred Way: Spiritual Practices for Everyday Life. Together, we’ll reflect on Sacred Reading, the Daily Office, the Ignatian Examen, and a different kind of fasting—practices designed to nurture spiritual growth in everyday life.
When: Sundays, Feb. 22, Mar. 1, Mar. 8, and Mar. 15, 9:15–10:00 a.m.
Where: St. Andrew’s (location TBA)
Who: Limited to the first 24 participants
Leader: Carolyn Johnson
To participate and receive a free copy of the book, sign up after church at the desk near the Jewell Room or email Carolyn Johnson at carolyn.swede@gmail.com.
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Contemplative Ministries Commission
Rooted in the ancient Christian traditions and guided by the wisdom of the mystics, the Contemplative Ministries Commission at St. Andrew’s seeks to nurture a community centered in the transforming presence of God. We aim to cultivate stillness, inner healing, and holy attentiveness, encouraging all people to awaken to their true identity in God and to the sacredness of all creation.
Weekly Offerings
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Sacred Spaces, a time of community and centering prayer or meditation, is held weekly on Tuesdays from 6-6:30 at HJ’S Youth & Community Center. A virtual option is also available. On 4th Tuesdays, the time of prayer and meditation is followed by a brief talk and discussion.
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Sacred Spaces Book Discussion, following Sacred Spaces on 2nd Tuesdays from 6:30 to 7:30. On March 10, Open Mind, Open Heart by Thomas Keating will be discussed.
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Yoga, Thursdays, 5:30 - 6:30, at HJ’s Youth & Community Center, join us for a gentle, slow-flow yoga, focusing on mindful stretching, strengthening, and breathing. Yoga can help us shift our attention to internal exploration and become a tool for spiritual growth. We strive to embody a “peace that passes understanding,” offering spaces of silence and spiritual companionship.
We invite all into the journey from self-preoccupation to communion, from fragmentation to wholeness, and from contemplation to action. For more information, contact Mtr Rita Kendagor or vestry liaison, Ann Holliday.
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Birthday Card Ministry
St. Andrew’s sends birthday cards to parishioners throughout the year as a simple way of staying connected within our parish community. We are looking for several volunteers to join our current team and help with this monthly ministry. Writers are scheduled by month, and cards may be written at church or taken home, whatever works best for you. All materials are provided.If interested, please contact Mtr. Jean at jean@standrewkc.org.
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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.
| | Can't make it to church this Sunday? Remember that St. Andrew's broadcasts each worship service to our website and our YouTube Channel. You can also catch the sermon the following week 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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Seed Packaging with KCCG
Thank you to all who came to support the KCCG seed packing day! 25 people packaged 6,300 seed packages, the most volunteers we’ve ever had and the most seeds we’ve ever packaged.
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Celebrating St. Patrick – Music of Lent and Ireland
Join us on Sunday, March 22 at 5:00 PM for an evening of sacred and Irish music featuring the St. Andrew’s Parish Choir. The program includes Lenten anthems by Mozart, Elgar, and Howells, alongside beloved Irish folk songs such as Down by the Salley Gardens, The Rakes of Mallow, and Wearing of the Green. Organists Dr. Jacob Hofeling and Dr. Thomas R. Vozzella will perform on St. Andrew’s mighty Aeolian-Skinner/Quimby pipe organ. A light reception with Irish libations and treats will follow.
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KC St. Andrew Pipes & Drums
Our pipers, KC St. Andrew Pipes & Drums, have a concert at Rockhurst High School’s Rose Theater at 7 p.m. Saturday, March 7! “Celtic Spring” features the band, joined by Celtic musicians, dancers, and an opera company, for an unforgettable show. Tickets available at www.kcpipeband.org.
| | 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
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St. Patrick's Day Lawn Party
Please join us for St. Andrew’s annual St. Patrick’s Warm-Up Parade Lawn Party on Saturday, March 14, noon - 2:00. We will have hot dogs, face painting, and a bounce house. We have volunteer opportunities for middle-school and high-schoolers. Come out and join our neighbors for this fun tradition!
Youth Group Sundays at HJ's
- Middle School Youth Group (5th-8th grade): 4:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m.
- High School Youth Group (9th - 12th grade) 5:45 p.m.-6:45 p.m.
| | Are you a young adult looking for community at St. Andrew's? We'd love for you to be a part of our 20s/30s group. Join us on Sundays after the 10:15 service for discussion at HJ's Community Center. On the third Sunday each month, join us for brunch after the 10:15 service. Contact Tim Dodderidge at dodderidget@gmail.com or 913-904-4069 for more details. | | Adult Christian Formation | | |
Episcopal 101
Thursday nights, Feb. 19 through March 26, 6-7:30 p.m.
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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The Sacred Way
Sundays in Lent, 9:15-10 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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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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Tucker
Nancy
Cory
Abby
Thaddeus
Bill
Melina
Steve H.
Gail
Peter
Corbin
Carol
Austin
Joanna
Frances
Steve
Wendy
Scott
Allie
Rick
Walt
Katie
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Bennett
Quincie
Dick O.
Erin K.
Sally
CC
Elizabeth
Katie
Kaden
Penny
Maggie R.
Larry S.
Kathleen S.
Tom
Carol
Gretchen
Andrew
Dennis
Amanda
Stefani
Steve
Frances
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Tim
Carolyn H.
Bret
Robbie
Jack
Rozzie
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.
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.
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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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