Here is the latest news for the week of July 27, 2025.
ATTACHED IS THE 2025-2026 ANNUAL BUDGET FOR ST. JAMES. TAKE A MOMENT TO REVIEW IT AND EMAIL ANY QUESTIONS TO DAN NASH AT FINANCE@STJKC.ORG. Budget Summary
BELOW IS THE SUMMARY OF THE JULY 20 SYNOD MEETING. IT WAS A VERY ENGAGING TOPIC ON ICE AND ITS IMPACT ON ST. JAMES. Synod Summary
URGENT APPEAL: HELP JUDITH REED REGAIN HER INDEPENDENCE
Our beloved parishioner, Judith Reed, has been part of our church family for many years. Recently, she was involved in an accident that totaled her car and left her recovering at Bishop Spencer Rehab Center. As she works toward a full recovery, Judith faces the challenge of regaining her mobility and independence.
How You Can Make a Difference
If you have a used vehicle that can be donated to St. James to give to Judith, contact Mary Vincent at mpv3@swbell.net or call the parish office.
WE WELCOME ANYONE WHO CAN ATTEND SUNDAY MASS AT ST. JAMES AT 10:00 A.M. Our celebrant is Fr. Garry Richmeier, C.PP.S.. Considering that many parishioners are still experiencing the effects of the COVID-19 virus and other infections, if you plan to join us in person, we recommend wearing a mask if you exhibit symptoms or are immunocompromised.
WE CONTINUE TO LIVE STREAM OUR 10:00 A.M. SUNDAY MASS, reaching out to parishioners and friends who can’t attend in person. Here is the link to the live stream on our Facebook page for St. James Midtown, KC. A recording of the live-streamed Mass can also be accessed: https://stjkc.org/sundays-at-st-james.
ST. JAMES’ COMMUNITY GARDEN UPDATE: Thanks to all who helped last hot Saturday digs potatoes of many colors. The Garden Gang will share them with the parish at the Anniversary Picnic. This Saturday all are welcome to join us as we weed, prepare beds, share fellowship, and look for worms. Produce ready to be harvested include the following:
East Garden
Tomatoes
Eggplant
Beets intermixed with the Tomatoes
South Garden
Bed 1 – Dill
Bed 8 – Kale
Bed 15 – Swiss Chard
Raspberries by Troost39’s back door
WE ENCOURAGE YOU TO VISIT THE ST JAMES WEBSITE REGULARLY At www.StJKC.org and provide feedback or ideas for posts. Please email your ideas to website@stjkc.org.
NOURISH YOUR SPIRIT BEFORE MASS. Take a few moments to read and reflect on this Sunday’s readings. Let them speak to your heart and prepare you to enter more deeply into the celebration of the Eucharist.
| READINGS FOR SUNDAY, JULY 20, 2025, SIXTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY |
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First Reading – Genesis 18:20-32: God speaks to Abraham about Sodom and Gomorrah’s sin.
Abraham asks God to spare the innocent.
Reflection Question: Consider how God has shown mercy to us time and time again. When we plead with God (not understanding the whole situation), does he not show us great patience and compassion like he shows Abraham here? Second Reading – Colossians 2:12-14: Paul writes to the Colossians about God’s faithfulness in removing all transgression from His people.
Reflection Question: Can you see in your own life how the true freedom of God’s forgiveness allows you to live as Christ lived, loving others? Gospel – Luke 11:1-13: Jesus teaches his disciples about prayer, generosity, kindness, and the Father’s love for those in His kingdom.
Reflection Question: How do the words of the Lord’s Prayer encourage you to rejoice in the forgiveness and the good gifts of God? How can we give good gifts that honor Christ to those around us, even if it may be an inconvenience? |
FR. DON FARNAN HAS A WONDERFUL WEEKLY PODCAST THAT ADDRESSES important issues of the day and how they intersect with our faith. Check it out and subscribe https://uponthisrockpodcast.buzzsprout.com/.
Introduction to Islam: Getting Beyond the Myths presented by Biagio Mazza. This Faith Formation program of five weekly sessions on Thursdays will take place August 14 to September 11, 2025, 6:30-8pm, at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 416 SE Grand Ave, Lee’s Summit, MO 64063 (816-524-3651), https://stpaulsls.org. The program will offer a basic introduction to Islam and Muslims, exploring and addressing both beliefs and practices. These sessions will address the misunderstandings that people have of Islam and Muslims and help move beyond the myths and prejudices. To register, email Biagio at biagio46@gmail.com. Please see the attached flyer for more information.
📚 LOOKING FOR A GOOD READ? St. James has a collection of faith-based books (reviewed by Denise Simeone and Biagio Mazza) that didn’t make the cut for the rectory library—but might be perfect for your shelf. Browse the back tables in church and take what speaks to you. 🖼️And if your walls are feeling bare, check out the framed pictures nearby. They are also free to a good home!
Franciscan Action Network Reflection for this Sunday. View it in your web browser
No Kings Action: One Million Rising: Strategic Non-Cooperation to Fight Authoritarianism. Join virtual gatherings Wednesdays from 8 – 9:30 pm EDT