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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The Grace to Come Back Slowly
A message from Fr. John Spicer, Rector
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It will be a joy to see you this Sunday, March 2. Honestly, I won’t be doing a lot more than showing up, waiting until later to preach or preside. I’m purposefully taking it easy as I return to work following Ann’s death on Feb. 8, and I’m so grateful to Mtr. Jean, Mtr. Rita, all the staff, the wardens, and all of you for unanimously underscoring the message that I need to give myself grace to ease back in. So, this week, I’ll be in the office as usual; I’ll be part of our services on Ash Wednesday, March 5; and I’ll preach on March 9. Then, a few hours after worship that day, I’ll leave town for a week to join my friends from seminary for the annual visit we’d already scheduled. Time with them feels like the right next step on this healing journey.
I now belong to a club no one wants to join. So, what does a new member of the widow(er)’s club want and need? Conventional wisdom gets it right: There’s no single answer to that question. As so many people have told me, the grief journey looks different for everyone. So, that means it falls to the person who’s grieving to be transparent about it. Here’s what I need first and foremost: your prayers and your love. I’m sure I’ll say more about this in an upcoming sermon, but I’d be in a much deeper hole right now if it weren’t for the love of God, incarnated in the people of this good place, bearing me up. Thank you for every prayer you’ve offered, all the loving thoughts and notes that have come my way. They are God’s healing balm.
Of course, love is a verb; so, what kind of loving actions would be most helpful for me? I’m enough of an introvert that simply doing my job will fill much of my need for daily interaction. There will be plenty of lunches and meetings to keep me occupied, and I’m really not ready for much socializing anyway. Also, I don’t need food. There’s only so much that freezers can hold, and my kids have left me well-supplied. Here’s what would be helpful: a note or a card. It’s been life-giving to go to the mailbox and find something other than junk, outward and visible reminders that I’m not walking this path alone. I’ve been grateful for each one that’s come my way.
It will be good to be with you for worship, to be back with the staff on Tuesday, to mark Ash Wednesday together, and to go see my best friends next week. Thank you for the grace to come back slowly.
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Call our toll-free number 800-808-1625 to listen to worship on your phone! | |
Celebrating the ministry of Bishop Diane Jardine Bruce, Bishop Provisional, Diocese of West Missouri | |
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Bishop Diane’s Northwest Metro Deanery Farewell Party
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Date: Friday, March 14
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Time: 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
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Location: Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral | Founders’ Hall
RSVP online at Bishop’s Farewell Deanery Parties - The Diocese of West Missouri or email Mtr. Jean Long at jean@standrewkc.org.
The Northwest Metro deanery of The Diocese of West Missouri is inviting you to the Bishop’s Farewell Party to commemorate Bishop Diane’s service and ministry to our diocese. The evening will include a Eucharist and potluck-style dinner. The Diocese of West Missouri will provide the main dish, vegetable trays, and mac and cheese, and we are all invited and encouraged to bring a side dish and/or dessert to share.
If you need ideas on what to bring, here is a list made with different dish ideas you can bring based on your last name. Keep in mind this is not a requirement, but a suggestion.
o A-G: Salads (Potato, green, pasta, cole slaw, deviled eggs, etc.
o H-L: Fruit (Salad, tray, jello, etc.)
o M-P: Baked Beans or Potato Casserole
o Q-R: Rolls and Butter
o S-W: Desserts
o X-Z: Chips and Dip
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Lenten Sermon Series: Who Am I?
Lent is an invitation to examine the core of our identity—not just who we are, but who we are becoming. This series, “Who Am I?”, considers the tension between our deepest longings and our created purpose, the ways we define ourselves, and the ways God reshapes us. As we journey through this season, we confront the paradox of human frailty and divine love, seeking clarity in the wilderness of self-understanding.
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Thursday Night During Lent: Who Am I? A Lenten Journey of Light and Shadow
Thursday Nights at HJ’s, March 13 – April 10
Dinner: 5:30 –6:00, Exploration & Discussion: 6pm-7pm
Lent is a season of reflection, an invitation to wrestle with the deepest questions of our identity: Who am I? Where do I see the light of grace in my life? Where do I struggle with shadow?
In this five-week series, we will explore the complexities of identity through the lens of Jungian archetypes, scripture, art, theology, and personal reflection. Together, we will examine depictions of angels and the devil—both in scripture and artistic tradition—wrestle with the nature of sin & goodness and engage in the spiritual practices of journaling and Visio Divina to deepen our understanding.
This Lenten journey is not about finding simple answers but embracing discovery—seeing ourselves more fully in both our struggles and our capacity for grace. Join us for meaningful conversation, prayerful reflection, and a renewed sense of identity in Christ.
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Shrove Tuesday: Pancakes, Preparation, and Community
Join us on Shrove Tuesday for a pancake supper that’s more than just a meal—it’s a chance to gather, connect, and take part in a longtime Episcopal tradition.
Why “Shrove” Tuesday? The name comes from the old English word shrive, meaning to seek absolution. Traditionally, this was the day Christians would confess their sins and prepare for the fasting and reflection of Lent.
Why pancakes? Before the Lenten fast began, families would use up rich ingredients like butter, eggs, milk, and sugar—and pancakes were the perfect way to do it!
Why come? Enjoy a delicious, family-friendly meal (no cooking required!) and connect with the St. Andrew’s community as we begin Lent together.
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Rooted & Growing: A Lenten Journey for Families
On Sunday mornings during Lent, we invite families to join us at HJ’s from 9:15am-10am for our new series beginning March 9.
Who are we? Who are we becoming? This Lent let’s explore these questions as families—together. Parents will dive into meaningful conversations about faith, identity, and community, guided by the St. Andrew’s Lenten devotional. Meanwhile, preschool and elementary-aged kids will bring the theme to life through hands-on activities like art, storytelling, and creative play. This is more than a class—it’s a chance to pause, connect, and grow in faith as a family. Come be part of the journey!
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Also During Lent...
- Join us every Wednesday at 12:15pm for our Mid-Week Lenten Recital Series. The series will kick off Wednesday, March 12 with Dr. Jacob Hofeling, Organist. Wednesday, March 19 will feature Neo-Art Piano Duo Regina Tanujaya and Matteo Generani. Find the rest of the schedule here.
- We will be offering a new Lenten Devotional Booklet written by St. Andrew’s clergy. More details to come!
- Join us for Taizé worship, which includes prayer, simple music, a time for silence, and inspirational readings. All Taizé services are held Tuesdays at 6pm at St. Andrew’s on March 11, April 1, and April 15.
- Find more info about our Lenten offerings, including Outreach opportunities and Holy Week services on our website at standrewkc.org/lent.
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Thursday Evening Learning Opportunity- Living the Light: Discovering God through Serving Others
On Thursday evenings through March 6 at HJ’s, we’ll gather to explore the theology behind outreach ministry and hear heartfelt stories from parishioners who lead some of our outreach partnerships. They’ll share how their work has transformed their hearts and helped shine Christ’s light into the world.
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Here’s what to expect each week:
- Dinner at 5:30 p.m. – Share a meal and fellowship with others.
- Class from 6 to 7 p.m. – Engage in thoughtful discussion and inspiring stories.
- Compline at 7 p.m. – Close the evening with a peaceful, five-minute prayer service to end the day.
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Whether you join us in person or via livestream, there’s a place for you in this journey of learning and serving. Click here to join the livestream.
Upcoming Sessions and Featured Leaders:
- March 6 – Gina Heise (Jewish Vocational Services) and Karen Lundgren (Gordon Parks Elementary)
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Journey Through Luke With the Good Book Club
Through April 23, the Good Book Club will take up the Gospel of Luke. Most scholars say Luke was written after the Roman destruction of Jerusalem in 70, perhaps around 80, using the Gospel of Mark as its main source. Following this hypothesis, Luke (like Matthew) edits Mark and adds new material—for example, the Christmas story from Mary’s perspective. Luke emphasizes Jesus’ compassion for the marginalized and downtrodden, portraying him as a friend to sinners and poor people. Luke also highlights the role of women in the disciple community and uses female characters in the narrative more often than Mark or Matthew. The Gospel of Luke includes numerous parables, including favorites not found elsewhere, such as the Good Samaritan and the Prodigal Son. Themes of forgiveness, repentance, and salvation are prominent in this Gospel. Overall, Luke presents a comprehensive and compassionate portrait of Jesus, highlighting his ministry and mission to bring salvation to all. You can get the readings in daily texts or emails—just contact Fr. John to sign up.
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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. | |
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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St. Andrew’s Nursery
St. Andrew’s Nursery is now open for both the 8:00 AM and 10:15 AM services, providing a safe and welcoming space for your little ones while you enjoy the service. Whether you’re attending early or later, you can rest easy knowing your child is in good hands!
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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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Faith & Grief Gathering
Wednesday March 12, 2025, 12 p.m., Visitation Catholic Church
Speaker: Ryan Speed – Remembering a Beloved Uncle
Grief is a complex journey, one that I began to understand deeply after losing my uncle to substance use when I was 18. His life was marked by struggles with mental health but also by profound kindness and love that shaped who I am today. Saying goodbye wasn’t something my family was prepared for, and his death left us searching for meaning in the midst of pain. I’ve come to understand that the stages of grief are far from linear; waves of sadness, anger, and acceptance often overlapped in my journey. Through this I believe my faith was strengthened, helping me see his impact in my life and carry that forward. That understanding continues to guide me, both personally and in my work with others facing challenges with mental health, substance use, and loss.
Visit faithandgrief.org to RSVP for a gathering and learn more about all our grief programs online and In-person.
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Gordon Parks School: INSPIRE!
The Gordon Parks School’s INSPIRE! program encourages the students to use their imagination and creativity to produce an annual themed project. In 2023, the theme was photography and through the lens of every student’s camera images were captured of their community. In 2024, the students’ imagination was in full swing as they created extremely unique creatures (click here to see the video!). In both 2023 and 2024 the school held an INSPIRE! exhibit at the KC Art Institute to display that year’s projects.
This year’s INSPIRE! project will have the students bringing their creativity to life through still life paintings on canvas. And yes, there is a need for volunteers. Please know that one does not need to be an artist to volunteer! As you will see in the video, all one really needs is a smile and encouraging words! If you have questions and /or are interested in signing up, please contact Karen Lundgren.
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A Prayer for our Outreach Ministries: Almighty and everliving God, we thank you for the individuals you have brought together on the OutReach Commission. We are grateful for the gifts, talents, and dedicated hearts and hands that are putting Love in Action. Guide us to be good stewards of the resources we have been entrusted with; inspire us to be the salt of God’s kingdom to serve others, live life fully and bring others to Christ; and support us as we grow in dedication to each other. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
The Outreach Commission thanks you for your continual support of our 16 partnerships, and we ask that you please pray for those we serve:
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St. Augustin's School in Haiti
Andie’s Pantry
Banneker Emergency Fund
Banneker Schoolyard Garden
Fabric of Life
Free Store
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Gordon Parks Elementary School
Jewish Vocational Service (JVS)
Kansas City Community Garden
NourishKC
Pet Ministry
Rose Brooks
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Sr. Berta’s Friendship Circles
St. James Church
St. Paul’s Pantry
Welcome House
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Children, Youth & Young Adult Ministry | |
Contact Veronica Wiebold for questions about children, youth, or young adult ministries. | |
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Sunday Mornings at St. Andrew’s for Kids
Sunday school takes place during the 10:15 service and join their families in to have communion together.
Look for the colorful doors in the children’s ministry wing to find your child’s classroom. Veronica and our youth members will greet families and help guide you to your child’s classroom.
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Nursery (8 wks – 3yrs): Orange doors.
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PreK – 1st grade: Green doors.
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2nd – 4th grade: Red doors.
Faith at Home:
We’re excited to continue offering weekly parent pages, available next to the Sunday school sign-in sheets. These resources will keep families informed about what their children are learning and provide opportunities for faith conversations at home.
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High School Senior Sunday: May 4th - We will celebrate our high school seniors on Sunday, May 4th at the 10:15am service. If you have a high school senior, please submit the following to Veronica Wiebold by April 13.
- Senior Picture
- High School
- Post High School Plans
- Favorite memory of St. Andrew’s
It’s Election Season! A new year means it’s time to elect our next Verger and Student Leaders. This is your chance to step up, lead, and make an impact in our church community. Whether you’re passionate about organizing, inspiring others, or just want to grow in your faith through leadership, this is your moment! Stay tuned for details on nominations and voting—we can’t wait to see who will rise to the occasion!
- Applications: Due by March 16th
- Date of Elections-Sunday, March 30th, 2025 at St. Andrew’s Library
- Time: 1:00pm-5:30pm
- For all current Verger and Student leaders it is not necessary that you have to apply, however we would like to have a meeting on March 2nd
Sign UP for Youth Mega Camp: June 1-7, 2025, Camp Wood YMCA, Elmdale, KS
Who: Students in grades 3-12 for 2024-25 school year (you must have finished third grade to attend). Camp is not restricted to Episcopalians or regular churchgoers. All are welcome, so feel free to invite friends and family.
Cost: $525 through May 1, 2025; $575 after May 1. There is a $25 non-refundable deposit due at registration.
Payment plans are available. If you choose, UltraCamp will automatically divide the cost of camp over the remaining months between when you register and the start of camp. The full camp fee must be paid by the first day of camp. Register early to have more, smaller payments. Registration is online via UltraCamp starting January 1; priority deadline is May 1. Contact Veronica for info on how to register.
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Adult Christian Formation | |
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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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Sacred Spaces
Tuesday, 6 p.m.
Tai Chi for Beginners
Monday, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Good Book Club
Daily
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Brown Baggin’ & Books Reading Group
Looking for a fun and engaging way to read and discuss great books? St. Andrew’s Brown Baggin’ & Books is a lively, welcoming group that meets once a month to share a love of reading! We meet the second Wednesday of each month, September to May, from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM via Zoom. Our members select the books, and we dive into thoughtful discussions with guiding questions to deepen our understanding.
Contact Kathryn Holtze for more information or call 303-579-0124.
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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.
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St. Andrew's is here for you. | |
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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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Gilles
Bertrand
Phyllis Anne
Vesper
Eric
Paulette
Mikeala
Pat M.
Angela
Grayson
Wyatt
Brittany
Penny
Romo
David P.
Jamie P.
Rose
Destiny
Bill
Bev
Paul
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Bryan
Alan
James
Julie B.
Bill
Torni
Mary S.
Carolyn H.
Tom G.
Rozzie
Matt
Jen
Rod
Sharon
Janessa
Avery
Bob
Gail
Beverly
Christine
Patrick
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Gretchen
Scout
Allee
Scudder Family
July
Peter
Corny
Eric S.
Taylor M.
Mason & family
Jim
Grant
Carrie
Jerold & Isaac
Laura (Lolly)
Frank
Peggy
DeVette
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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! | |
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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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