We seek God's healing love and share that love with all
by growing in relationship with God, each other, and our neighbors.
| |
|
What Are We Celebrating Next Weekend?
A message from Fr. John Spicer, Rector
| |
In the week ahead, the calendar brings us our annual confusing trifecta of religious and quasi-religious observances related to death and what comes next: Halloween, All Saints’ Day, and All Souls’ Day. (In fact, at St. Andrew’s, these holidays start early with our Boo Bash, 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 29, at HJ’s.) Halloween, All Saints’, and All Souls’ share some interconnected history, but each day has its own story.
The place to start is in the middle, with the feast of All Saints’. It appears in the historical record as early as the 300s, and its current date was set in the early 800s. According to Lesser Feasts and Fasts, this celebration marks the “intercommunion” of Jesus’ living followers with those from years and ages past. Although most saints’ days honor a particular Christian hero, All Saints’ gives us the chance to honor all of us, famous and not, but especially those whose lives or deaths offered compelling examples of faithfulness.
It's All Saints’ that leads to Halloween. In England, the feast was called All Hallows’, so the night before was All Hallows’ Eve. Its observance came from Irish Christians “borrowing” the indigenous festival of Samhain (also Nov. 1), when people celebrated the end of harvest, the beginning of winter, and the return of the spirits of the ancestors to their family homes. It wasn’t much of a leap from indigenous Celts honoring ancestors to Christians honoring saints.
But what about the last member of this trio – the feast of All Souls’, Nov. 2? By the medieval period, All Saints’ had come to focus on the all-stars, saints who had fought lions, given away their possessions, or brought Good News to distant lands. So, around 1000, some monastic orders began observing a day for the run-of-the-mill faithful, the saints of God who “are just folk like me,” as the quaint English hymn puts it. Family and friends were honored especially, as continues now in the Hispanic community’s celebration of Dia de los Muertos. But, in the Reformation, the feast of All Souls’ was discarded by the new Protestant churches because of the abuses that had grown up around paying for masses to be said for the dead.
So, how do we mark this trifecta of blessed memory at St. Andrew’s? First, everyone’s invited for the Boo Bash this Wednesday, regardless of whether you have your own little ghost or goblin. Then – just to add to the confusion – we’ll transfer the feast of All Saints’ to Sunday, Nov. 2 (actually All Souls’ Day). At the 10:15 a.m. service, we’ll welcome five new saints into the family of God through baptism, and we’ll remember those who’ve joined the heavenly company of saints over the past year.
Wherever your spirit and your heart lead you—toward the saintly all stars or the saints in photos at your bedside—All Saints’ Sunday is the time to remember, celebrate, and look forward to future heavenly conversations.
| | | | 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 should have received 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. If you haven’t received a devotional guide, please let the office know so we can update your contact information. And feel free to take a booklet in the entryway.
This week, we’re considering how we can give God a share of the blessings God has given us. Next Sunday, the focus will be how God blesses us to receive meaning and purpose in life.
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.
| | |
United Thank Offering
Don’t forget to count your blessings - in a UTO Blue Box!
The United Thank Offering (UTO) began in 1889 through the efforts of Episcopal women who wanted to express gratitude through daily prayer and giving. What started as a few coins dropped into small “Blue Boxes” has grown into a worldwide ministry that supports grants meeting human needs across the globe.
Each time you add a coin to your Blue Box, you’re offering a tangible thank-you to God for the blessings in your life. Boxes are available in the narthex—take one home, place it somewhere visible, and make giving thanks a daily habit. Then bring your filled or partially filled Blue Box to church on Sunday, November 23, as we celebrate United Thank Offering Sunday together.
| | |
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
_____________________________________
$6,500 total
| | |
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.
| |  | |
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.
| |
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!
| | |
Good Book Club
Join the Good Book Club as we explore the Book of Isaiah. This foundational collection of prophetic writings from before, during, and after the Jews’ exile in Babylon will take us through Advent, Christmastide, and the season after Epiphany, ending just before Lent. To sign up for the daily emails or texts, email Fr. John Spicer (frjohn@standrewkc.org).
| | |
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)
-
Give online at standrewkc.org/give and select “designated”- typing “November Connecting Community” as the memo.
-
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.
| | | |
FRIENDSHIP CIRCLES COULD OPEN 3 NEW CIRCLES
“What our moms most need is a friend to share sorrows and victories with”, insisted Sr. Berta!
Each Circle, an Operation Breakthrough Mom or Dad and her/his children together with 2 or more middle class mentors, is
formed to build a friendship bridging societal barriers. Expert support comes from Operation Breakthrough’s social worker and from existing Circles. The
mentors are not bankers, or counselors, or life guides. To every currently active mentor their discovery is, “It is I who has received the greatest blessing!"
We’re ready to form three new Circles—just one man and two women are needed to get them started. Please contact either Karen Lundgren, 913 269-1412, or Dorothy Curry, 816 365-4583 for any clarification.
Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ Galatians 6:2
| | |
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. Click here to learn more about Andie's Pantry.
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. Click here to give online.
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.
| | |
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.
| | | | | |
Friday Christian History Class
New Study Begins October 31
Join us for a five-week study of Revelations: Visions, Prophecy, and Politics in the Book of Revelation by Elaine Pagels. We’ll explore Revelation’s historical background and how it has been interpreted through the centuries.
Fridays, 10:30–11:30 a.m.
Church Library or via Zoom here.
Please purchase your own copy of the book and read the corresponding Bible chapters each week. Questions? Contact Mtr. Jean Long.
| | |
New Thursday Offering: Learning to Love Our Enemies
Join us Thursdays for our 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. 20 (no class Nov. 13), 6–7:15 p.m. at HJ’s, as we reflect, listen, and grow together in Christlike love.
| | |
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
| | |
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.
***No Youth Group: October 26th and November 4th
| | |
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!
| | Adult Christian Formation | | |
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.
| | |
History of the Book of Revelation
Fridays, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Library
Sacred Spaces
Tuesdays, 6:00 p.m.
Tai Chi for Beginners
Monday, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Good Book Club
Daily
| | |
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.
| | |
Kaden
Penny
Cheryl
Maggie R.
Larry S.
Kathleen S.
Tom
Carol
Gretchen
Andrew
Dennis
Amanda
Stefani
Steve
Frances
Tim
Carolyn H.
Bret
Robbie
Jack
Rozzie
Cindy
| | |
Thomas
Shana
Ernestine
Adrienne
Alexis
Sandy
Susie
Brian
Haley
Kent & Nora
Donna
Tucker
Matthew
Don
Linny
Moses
Reed
Marion
Abby
Peter
Gail
Sue
| | |
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.
| | |
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)
| | | | |
