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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Week Three of Lent: Running on Empty
A message from Mtr. Jean Long, Associate Rector
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By the third week of Lent, many of us have settled into something that feels less like a dramatic spiritual journey and more like… Tuesday.
Ash Wednesday felt purposeful. Intentional. Dare I say, almost noble. But a few weeks later, the calendar is still full, the laundry still exists, and the Lenten discipline we began may now feel either comfortably routine or quietly negotiable.
Some days we feel focused and purposeful. Other days we feel like we’re a pinball, bouncing from one responsibility to the next. And when we’re running on empty, we look for relief wherever we can find it: a distraction, a small treat, something predictable that helps us feel steadier, even for a moment.
That instinct for a quick fix is not especially spiritual or unspiritual. It is simply human, and Scripture so often meets people right there.
This Sunday’s readings unfold in settings that feel familiar: a long stretch of wilderness travel, a midday errand to draw water, conversations shaped more by weariness than inspiration. The readings are stories about people just trying to keep going, which makes them… like us.
Scripture reminds us that difficulty is not meaningless. It can shape endurance, deepen character, and form a hope that is steadier than quick relief.
The readings for Sunday remind us of a truth we often resist it is easy to confuse relief with renewal. Relief gets us through the afternoon. Renewal is the quieter work God does within us.
Spiritual growth rarely comes from big moments. More often, it takes root through the steady discipline of taking the next right step. Faith deepens as we learn to trust that when we are tempted to reach for quick relief, something more life-giving may be quietly unfolding, even if we cannot yet see it.
Sometimes that means loosening our grip on what we can control. Sometimes it means turning toward parts of life we would rather avoid.
And, it is there, in the places we resist and the weariness we wish would disappear, that we begin to feel God’s steady presence.
Lent brings the tension of relief vs. renewal into focus. It reveals what we reach for when we feel depleted and invites us to bring that honest need to God.
Following Jesus together invites us to look for renewal instead of relief. It takes shape in steady practices like showing up for worship, sitting in quiet prayer, or talking with a friend about what we are noticing along the way. These ordinary rhythms become acts of trust and reminders that God is present and at work beneath the surface.
Which is good news, especially in the middle of a week that feels very much like real life.
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Woman Composer Sunday
This Sunday, March 8, St. Andrew’s joins churches across the country in observing Women Composer Sunday, celebrating the many women whose creativity and perseverance have shaped sacred music.
For generations, women have contributed as composers, performers, teachers, and leaders in church music—even while facing significant barriers in the musical world. Their dedication helped shape the rich musical traditions we continue to share in worship today.
The morning’s music features works by women across centuries and traditions, including Amy Beach, Roberta Martin, Natalie Sleeth, Jane Marshall, Mélanie Bonis, Sylvia Dunstan, Mary Louise Bringle, Jeanne Demessieux, Marcia Pruner, Marjorie Landsmark-DeLewis, and Cecil Frances Alexander.
| | 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 take 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, Mar. 8 and Mar. 15, 9:15–10:00 a.m.
Where: St. Andrew’s (location TBA)
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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HJ’s Café Update
HJ’s Café service has been suspended because of a series of incidents including violence, drug use, and first-responder calls. At a recent listening 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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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.
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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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Greeter Ministry Matters
We want all parishioners and newcomers to feel that St. Andrew’s is a community where they truly belong. One simple but meaningful way to help create that sense of welcome is by serving as a greeter. Our current greeter team invites you to join this important ministry, welcoming those who attend the 8:00 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. services at St. Andrew’s. We will hold a New & Refresher Greeter Training: March 22 at 9:15 a.m. in the Undercroft. Questions? Contact Carolyn Johnson.
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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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Gordon Parks Elementary School
Thank you, St. Andrew’s, for your continual support of Gordon Parks Elementary School. Since 1999, the school has educated and supported the children of KCMO and continues to provide door to door bussing, an 11:1 student teacher ratio, Special Education, an ESL teacher, and wrap around services in a loving environment. The school’s standardized test scores continue to rise, in part because of their Project Based Learning program, which encompasses physical education, STEAM, and the inclusion of reading specialists. In the 2026/27 school year the school will continue to grow by adding a second 1st grade classroom. Yes, an exciting time to be at Gordon Parks!
In the month of March, St. Andrew’s will host its 4th annual Gordon Parks School Fundraiser. This year’s funds will go towards the purchase of the needed items for the additional 1st grade classroom - desks, books, technology, Chromebooks, and Smart Boards. Contributions can be made by visiting standrewkc.org/give, or directly to St. Andrew’s with the memo line “GPES Fundraiser”.
There are always a need for volunteers either on a routine basis or for single events. Please contact Karen Lundgren with any questions or if interested in signing up.
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St. Andrew’s Support for JVS and Volunteer Opportunity
A big thank you to the congregation of St. Andrew’s for support of JVS through the 2025 Christmas Plate offering. Last week, Fr. John Spicer presented the JVS team with a check for $4,300.50. Through the generosity of St. Andrew’s parishioners, Christmas Plate donations were higher than ever this year! This donation to JVS will be used to address food insecurity needs.
As part of HR. 1, refugees are being notified that they are no longer eligible for SNAP benefits. Seventy-eight percent of JVS families receive SNAP benefits and it will result in a loss of $128,000 per month.
Volunteer Opportunity Highlight: Food Box Sorting & Distribution
JVS receives monthly food donations through their partnership with Jewish Family Services. Volunteers are needed to help prepare these donations and deliver them to client homes. Volunteers assist with sorting and packaging food items into boxes for specific JVS families. They also help transport and deliver boxes to households as needed.
This opportunity is open to individuals who are looking to volunteer once per month. No prior experience is required. The next distribution date is set for March 20 at 11:00am. Email volunteer@jvskc.org to learn more and get signed up!
If you have questions about St. Andrew’s work with JVS, please reach out to Gina Heise, Partnership Liaison to JVS. Thank you!
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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.
| | 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.
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The 20s and 30s are often a time of change and growth. In the midst of busy schedules and life transitions, this group gathers to build friendships, explore faith, and share life together through conversation, laughter, and service.
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Weekly Discussion Group: Meets after the 10:15 a.m. service at HJ’s Community Center to reflect on the week’s Gospel reading and sermon.
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Third Sunday Brunch: On the third Sunday of each month, the group gathers after the 10:15 a.m. service for brunch. Participants meet in the Jewell Room before heading to a nearby restaurant for an informal time of connection.
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Game Nights & Social Events: Game Nights are held every other month on the fourth Saturday at 7:00 p.m. at HJ’s (next one in April). On alternating months, the group gathers for other social events at varying times and locations.
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Service Opportunities: Members regularly volunteer with the Free Store ministries and participate in other service opportunities at church and in the wider community throughout the year.
For more information or to get connected, contact Tim Dodderidge, 20s/30s Vestry Liaison.
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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.
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The Sacred Way
Sundays in Lent, 9:15-10 a.m.
Good Book Club
Daily
Men's Lectionary Group
Thursday, 7:30-8:30 a.m.
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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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Mike
Becca
Hans
Tucker
Nancy
Cory
Abby
Thaddeus
Bill
Melina
Steve H.
Gail
Peter
Corbin
Carol
Austin
Joanna
Frances
Steve
Wendy
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Scott
Allie
Rick
Walt
Katie
Bennett
Quincie
Dick O.
Erin K.
Sally
CC
Elizabeth
Katie
Kaden
Penny
Maggie R.
Larry S.
Kathleen S.
Tom
Carol
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Gretchen
Andrew
Dennis
Amanda
Stefani
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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