City on a Hill: Kansas City (COAH Staff)

Father Mattingly, Director of City on a Hill, is also the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation', we we will begin to record and share his Sunday homilies.

The Gospel this week, from John 15, is some of Father Mattingly's favorite verses in the bible. What do the vine and the branches have to do with you today? How can you abide and remain in the Christ? Father Mattingly gives several practical ways to abide in the Lord, and the fruit that will come when you do! 

Taylor had always wanted to be a good person thanks to a great family and talkative dinners. She went to YoungLife and accepted Jesus into her heart. She graduated from Mizzou, and it was there that she took on four different bible studies of various Christian denominations. She encountered the Lord in Matthew 16, where Jesus claimed Peter as the rock on which his Church would be built. Previously she’d been to Rome and saw the bones of St. Peter and connected the dots that the Catholic church was started by the Lord and consequently is her home.

Show notes:
- Check out FOCUS at Mizzou.
- Read more on the discovery of St. Peter’s Tomb in Rome.

Jessica Le grew up in St. Louis, Missouri and shares how a few positive peer influences growing up nudged her to seek out the faith on a deeper level. By making a conscious effort to just show up, Jess was amazed how the Lord worked in her life during college and continues to do so. She has made a conscious effort to have a personal encounter with each person she interacts with daily and shares practical tips on how to do so.

Jessica chats with Fr. Mattingly and Taylor Downey about how to stay strong in your faith through big life transitions, specifically going from college to adult life. They discuss the importance of seeking out opportunities and finding community.

Show Notes: 

- “Rediscover Catholicism: A Spiritual Guide to Living with Passion & Purpose” By Matthew Kelly

- Catholic Challenge Sports (CCS)

Lauren Bauer shared with Fr. Mattingly and Taylor Furrer about her own conversion of heart, which began with her head and then moved to her heart. After having been raised Catholic, Lauren's parents separated and attended different churches. Lauren was faced with a decision, but chose to remain Catholic and defend the faith with her knowledge. 

After reading a book about Pope Saint John Paul II, Lauren's head learned that Jesus is a friend and desires relationship with her. So her heart followed her head, and began to dedicate her time in prayer, to be in relationship with Jesus. Lauren has continued to learn the delicate balance between knowing and loving Jesus. 

Show Notes:

- Saint John Paul the Great: His 5 Loves by Jason Evert

- Benedictine College

- Morning Offering by St. Philip Neri: "Watch me, O Lord, this day; for, abandoned to myself, I shall surely betray thee."

- Sisterhood Small Groups

- Abiding Together Podcast

- This Present Paradise: A Spiritual Journey with St. Elizabeth of the Trinity

Jacob Woods, a previous Reformed Evangelical, recently entered the Catholic Church on Pentecost Sunday. He shares how his search for truth lead him to Catholicism as he began to question his beliefs. Jacob’s advice to Catholics is to dive into Scripture and learn how to defend the faith.

Jacob now has a YouTube channel, “The Candid Catholic,” where he shares on topics of Scripture, Theology, Life as a Catholic, Catholicism’s view on culture, stories of the Saints and more to help Catholics and non-Catholics alike to discover more about the Catholic faith.

Show Notes:

- Pope Peter by Joe Heschmeyer

- YouTube debate between James White & Trent Horn

- Jacob’s YouTube Channel: The Candid Catholic

- Scott Hahn

- Trent Horn

- Jimmy Akin

Kendall Nick shares how just a few moments of courage set her on a path of healing and began to transform her relationship with Jesus Christ. Once she started talking to God as a friend, her relationship with Christ became more intimate and personal, which ever so subtly began to change her life. Kendall is actively pursuing sainthood by living out the words of Mother Teresa, “Do small things with great love.”

Kendall shares how Feeding Homeless Friends got started, a personal apostolate she began which serves those in the River Market area in Kansas City every other Friday night. They bring food, clothes, consistency and comfort to those who lack it. They have built friendships, shared stories, and are impacting lives just by showing up. To learn more or get involved with Kendall’s ministry, check out the Show Notes!

Show Notes:

- Feeding Homeless Friends

This episode features his homily on 10/7/21, the Feast of the Holy Rosary.

Father Mattingly, Director of City on a Hill, is also the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation' we share his Sunday homilies.

Father Mattingly, Director of City on a Hill, is also the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation', we will begin to record and share his Sunday homilies!

This Sunday Our Lady of Good Counsel welcomed 7 adults into the Catholic Church! Pray for them!

Father Mattingly, Director of City on a Hill, is also the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation', we will begin to record and share his Sunday homilies! 

Justin & Kaylene Brown sit down with Fr. Mattingly, to share of their individual testimonies which coincide in a mutual conversion to the fullness of the Catholic Church. Justin grew up in a small town, with a lively Catholic Church, but Justin notes that there seemed to be a general sense of culture over faithfulness. Kaylene grew up in a home with one Catholic parent and one non-Catholic parent. 

Justin and Kaylene had their own experiences and encounters with the Lord prior to meeting one another - confirmation retreats, Teens Encounter Christ, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and more. Their story culminates in meeting one another (hint: on St. Patrick's Day while in college). From this point, Kaylene began to experience healing from her brokenness and eating disorder while dating Justin. Justin allow Kaylene to be a source of truth in his life, which led to a full belief in Catholicism. Tune in to hear how their pursuit of sainthood continued in marriage. 

Father Mattingly, Director of City on a Hill, is also the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation', we will begin to record and share his Sunday homilies!

How to react after listening to this homily:

1) Reflect on the gifts the Lord has given you (financially, intellectually, spiritually, talents, skills, etc.).

2) Consider how the Lord may be asking you to offer each gift for His glory.

Fr. Andrew Mattingly sits down with Diego Payan to share of his conversion, which hinged on a decision to begin attending daily Mass. One Monday evening, he wasn't sure if he would find a daily Mass to attend after a long day of work. After using MassTimes.org (shout out!), he found a quaint little chapel tucked in Kansas City, Kansas - the Little Sisters of the Lamb. 

The Community of the Lamb is a humble little religious community, that is nestled in the streets of Kansas City, KS. Diego immersed himself in the community and became a young adults of the lamb. One thing led to the other, Diego sought healing, and he now desires to share the joy he receives from his faith with others. Join Diego and attend their young adult night on Monday evenings! 

Show Notes: 

- Donnelly College

- MassTimes.org

- Little Sisters of the Lamb 

- Small Get-Together: Monday Nights at Community of the Lamb

- Desert Stream Ministries 

For our last episode of Season 4: 

Fr. Mattingly sits down with Rey Wilkinson, where Rey shares about making his way back to the Catholic Church through the graces of great communities in Kansas City. Rey was raised Catholic by his grandma and mom, though he sparingly went to Mass. Upon graduating college, he moved to Kansas City and through a few invitations got connected with a good community of young adults. 

Rey attributes the his reversion to the Church through the intentionality of the communities that he found in Kansas City, friendships that centered on a pursuit of holiness... rather than the current secular trend! Rey's radical openness to say yes to invitations, which allowed Rey to encounter Christ through community. (Matthew 18:30, "For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in the midst of them.”)

Show Notes: 

- Mir House of Prayer (St. Joseph): 24-hour adoration chapel 

- Morning Glory Ministries: a local ministry for homeless 

- Saint Paul's Outreach: young adult community 

- Young Catholic Professionals: Kansas City Chapter 

Episode #003: Kelly Hunt

The testimony of another set ablaze the kindling within her heart. Relating to God the Father was natural for her. Relating to the Holy Spirit was also natural for her creative and artistic soul. Relating to the Person of Jesus was awkward. The profound understanding that came to Kelly can be yours too. Listen in!

Show notes:

- Performing her music publicly seemed impossible, but it became a career! Give her a listen: www.kellyhuntmusic.com.

Fr. Mattingly sits down with Ellen Kopetzky as she shares how the Lord has touched her life through the Eucharist. Ellen grew up in Lincoln, Nebraska and now works as an elementary and special education teacher in Kansas City. Listen to hear how a severe injury in high school became a pivotal moment in Ellen’s faith journey.

We discuss how getting rid of distractions and spending one-on-one time with God is essential in our spiritual lives. Ellen also shares some resources she has found helpful in her prayer life and making time for God.

Show Notes:

- "Time for God" by Jacques Phillipe

- In Sinu Jesu by anonymous Benedictine Monk

- Abiding Together Podcast by Blessed is She

- Abiding Together's study on female Doctors of the Church

- Interested in joining a Sisterhood group? Email sisterhood@kansascityonahill.org to get connected to a group!

Miss Sara Bushland is a joy to be around! Her conversion to dependence on Jesus is intertwined with her own battle with anxiety. Out of her own experience, she helps run a local apostolate called Humble in Heart. Humble in Heart serves as a resource for young adults in Kansas City! Check out the Humble in Heart Instagram to see what speaker they are having soon!

SHOW NOTES:

- Humble in Heart's Instagram 

- Stephen F. Austin University 

- Hallow Application 

- Center for Healing 

- Spiritual Direction

Jake and Katie Huber met at Mizzou (can we get a ZOU?!) and then both served as FOCUS missionaries before settling down in Kansas City to start their own family! Jake and Katie had their own conversions while at Mizzou, through friendships they forged on campus!

Jake and Katie share a glimpse into their discernment of marriage and how their pursuit of holiness has transformed over the last few years - from life on campus to being settled as young professionals!

And PSA: Taco Bell serves breakfast.

Father Mattingly, Director of City on a Hill, is also the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation' we share his Sunday homilies.

In this weeks homily, Fr. Mattingly shares on the church teaching of two becoming one in marriage, and the teaching of the indissolubility of marriage. And the importance of supporting and upholding marriage and family life! 

Sam has a heart of pure gold, and it is evident as she lives from her identity as a daughter of a King. Tune in to listen to 'the most Catholic episode ever'. Sam went to the University of Dayton and then moved to KC, nearly on a whim. Sam shares her journey to finding community, and shares how she has been able to truly enter into life as a transplant to KC. The Lord worked in Sam's life through relationships, to break down walls for her to stand firm in her identity!

- Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine in Oklahoma City

- Given Institute in Washington DC

Father Mattingly, Director of City on a Hill, is also the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation', we we will begin to record and share his Sunday homilies.

Our Lady of Good Counsel is the Diocesan Shrine to Divine Mercy - listen to Fr. Mattingly's homily on the depth of the Lord's mercy that he has for you and for the whole world! 

Michael and Gina Tinio are truly on fire for their faith in Kansas City! They met at the one and only Kanza Hall, a country dance hall in Overland Park! Their meeting was truly a work of the Holy Spirit and a beautiful start to their vocation of marriage. Both Gina and Michael have had strong role models in their life who set the example in living out the Catholic faith.

Michael and Gina share a glimpse into how their pursuit of holiness has guided their marriage—for example, making daily mass a priority has made all the difference.

Show Notes:

- "Emotional Virtue" by Sarah Swafford

- Religious Sisters of Mercy of Alma, Michigan

- FOCUS Conferences

- Totus Tuus

- City Lights Gala

- Daily Rosary Podcast

After a few impactful experiences in his classical high school education & Great Books program, Gabe LeBeau started on an intellectual pursuit which lead him to want to study philosophy at Benedictine College in Kansas. Most people are drawn to one of the transcendentals—truth, beauty, and goodness. Gabe realized he specifically encounters the Lord through pursuing Truth, which has guided him along the way.

After College, Gabe has since moved to Kansas City and is currently studying to be a doctor at KU Med. He is pursuing a path to Sanctity through the medical field and with the intent to regain the integrity of the medicine. Gabe shares how conversations with his peers in med school have allowed him to dive into Catholic principles, appealing to them through the transcendentals.

Show Notes:
- City of the Lord – Catholic Charismatic Covenant Community

- The Republic by Plato

- Benedictine College in Atchison, KS

- Opus Dei Men's Recollection

- Catholic Medical Student Association at KU Medical

- Confessions by St. Augustine

John Michael and Emily Lucido are an on-fire couple, seeking to give glory to the Lord! After meeting in college, they dated, broke up, got back together, and then Emily converted to the Catholic Church. Phew, what a journey! They currently live in Lawrence, where John Michael serves with FOCUS. They have two beautiful babies, Eden and Judah (Judah was born after the recording of this episode). This is an episode you won't want to miss - hear more on how John Michael and Emily both had conversions to the Gospel of Jesus Christ!

Father Mattingly, Director of City on a Hill, is also the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation' we share his Sunday homilies.

The Gospel for the next few weeks will come from John chapter 6, the chapter where Jesus most extensively teaches on the Eucharist. Fr. Mattingly will spend the next few weeks preaching on various aspects of the Blessed Sacrament.

Listen to the final homily on the Most Holy Eucharist from August 29, to hear some practical tips on how to best use the moments after receiving Holy Communion

Growing up, Anna was active in her Catholic faith. It was during her senior year retreat that a teacher said, “no matter what happens in college, just go to Mass every Sunday.” Anna didn’t realize the impact that the Catholic lifestyle would have on her until she was in an environment where people didn’t live that way. She had a relationship to the Lord in her heart. Anna moved to Kansas City and jumped right into ways to be more whole! Listen in to hear about the importance of self-awareness and hearing God’s voice in incremental ways. Currently she’s embracing a slower pace of life.

Show notes: 

- Catholic Center for Healing

- Life Chain

- Sisterhood 

Derek and Kelly Maghe sit down with Fr. Mattingly to discuss all things marriage, family life, and evangelization in their everyday activities. They are also joined by their adorable daughter Pia. Derek and Kelly share their individual testimonies of how their faith grew to what it is today.

The couple shares how they keep daily prayer in their relationship and the importance of spending that time together with the Lord. Derek and Kelly continue to spread light by intentionally hosting others and engaging in fruitful conversations.

Show Notes:

- FOCUS

- Benedictine College

- Domestic Church

NOTICE: CONTENT NOT SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN (i.e. mentions masturbation)

As a young girl, Abbey Foard longed for the fullness of life. She shares her powerful story of healing from sexual sins and finding freedom in the truth. She became Catholic shortly before recording this podcast and shares how she went from the Christian charismatic world to finding stability in the Sacraments. Rather than relying on a feeling, she liked that they are “guaranteed touch-points to heaven” and is finding new life in receiving Jesus in the Eucharist.

Abbey is now helping others on their own paths to healing and finding freedom in their sexuality through her work as a counselor. She also serves as the Executive Director for Desert Stream/Living Waters. To learn more about this ministry, check out the show notes below!

Show Notes:

- Desert Stream / Living Waters Ministries : provides help for Christians struggling with sexual and relational problems. Their help is based on the biblical foundation of compassion, integrity, and dependence on God. Living Waters is a closed group for men and women seeking healing in their lives through weekly times of worship, teaching, and small group prayer with the goal to pray for God’s healing to restore broken areas of life so that people can “love well” as God intended. For more information or to get connected with the ministry, check out their website and social channels below!

- Website  

- Instagram 

Keevan Statz is currently working on his PHD at the University of Kansas in Kansas City. He shares how he came to make the faith his own and found his true identity in Christ. Keevan chats with Fr. Mattingly about how goal setting in your spiritual life is a good thing and why it is important to be intentional with your prayer time.

Keevan shares his purpose is to get to heaven by acquiring virtue and helping others to do the same. Listen how Keevan uses his talents to help others feel seen, known, and loved.

Show Notes:

- Interested in grabbing coffee or a beer with Keevan? Reach out to him at his email here: keevanstatz@gmail.com

- Magnificat Daily Companion

- “I believe in Love” by Father Jean C. J. d’Elbee

- “Return of the Prodigal Son: A Story of Homecoming” by Henri Nouwen

- “The Life of Christ” by Fulton Sheen

- Catholic Challenge Sports (CCS)

- FOCUS

Do you have a zeal for souls? What does that even mean? What does it mean to live with the disposition of a love for God and a zeal for souls? Father Mattingly expounds on these questions in this weeks homily, focusing on St. Paul's life and writings. 

Father Mattingly is the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation', we we will begin to record and share his Sunday homilies!

This episode features a Homily from February 7, 2021. First reading: Job 7:1-4, 6-7. Psalm: 147. Second reading: 1 Corinthians 9:16-19, 22-23. Gospel: Mark 1:29-39.

We are back with Season 4 of the City on a Hill Podcast! Kicking off the first episode is Dr. Luke Murray! He is the headmaster at Chesterton Academy in Kansas City! He shares how he first had an intellectual conversion during his early years of college, which was later followed by a heart conversion while attending Steubenville. Dr. Luke shares what lead him to his current position at Chesterton Academy and his heart behind it. If you are interested learning more about classical education, Dr. Luke and Fr. Mattingly discuss the differences between a modern education and the Chesterton model. He also shares the need for this form of education in our society today and the skills that it equips students with to not only benefit them in their professional lives, but set them on a path to Sainthood.

Show Notes:

- Mount Angel Seminary

- “The Everlasting Man” (1993) by G.K. Chesterton

- Chesterton Academy of St. Philip Neri: Kansas City

During banter, Emily teaches us about allergy tests - it’s really amazing! Throughout adolescence, her spiritual life was filled with retreat highs and then ordinary life. She didn’t know how to make the faith relevant to the day to day. She details her story of hitting rock bottom and finding hope in the Lord. AND despite loads of opposition, Emily started a pro-life group on her campus… while in medical school! Check out her episode now, wherever you get your podcasts!

Show notes:
- Interested in starting a Students for Life group? Find more information here.
- Emily hosts an event on the MAP. You can find more info about 2nd Sunday at Spokes here.

It was truly a treat to chat with Sr. Sanguinis as she shared her wisdom with us. She belongs to the religious order of The Servants of the Lord and the Virgin of Matara. Her full title is Sister Maria Mater Sanguinis Preciosi meaning Mary Mother of the Precious Blood of Jesus. She is currently serving in Guyana and shares how the sisters there are carrying out the mission of evangelizing culture.

She shares her own journey towards becoming a sister and offers tips on how to find clarity in times of discernment. She discussed the importance of falling in love with God’s will and how she lives out her life as a bride of Christ.

Show Notes:

- Servants of the Lord and the Virgin of Matara

- Focus SEEK

- Blessed Piere Giorgio Frassati--Learn more! 

- I.N.R.I Jesus Nazareno Rey De Los Judios—By Father Miguel Fuentes

- FOCUS Missions

- FOCUS Missions--India

Moved by Sr. Sanguinis story and want to support the mission of The Servants of the Lord and the Virgin of Matara? 

DONATE HERE

Please keep the Servants of the Lord and the Virgin of Matara in your prayers!

Madi Abbott shares of her humble beginnings on a farm in Oklahoma, learning to love the simplicity of life. Before too long, she fell into the allure of secular success and desire to be the best in all she did. At the beginning of high school, a broken foot led to being benched for the season... and Madi shares that one by one, her idols were smashed! 

Through life experiences, Madi has learned that the Lord did not need to create her... but He did, and continues to give gift after gift in her life! Madi reflects that in the midst of the day to day, it can be easy to allow suffering to distract us and detract from the gifts we receive... but suffering can be embraced as a gift, too! A true conversion that her broken foot allowed her to embrace suffering and allow her idols to be smashed - that she might live life more fully. 

The Gospel of the Woman at the Well has been the Gospel read on the third Sunday of Lent for 1,500 years. What was Jesus really referencing when He used the word 'thirst'? And how can you apply it to your own life today?

Father Mattingly is the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation', we we will begin to record and share his Sunday homilies!

Andrew & Ellen Holzum sit down with Fr. Mattingly to discuss all the ways they are pursuing Sainthood in Kansas City! They each share how they eventually came to make the faith their own—sending each of them on the pursuit for Catholic community, which they ultimately found in City on a Hill. They both recently decided on a Plan of Life and share the benefits and struggles of sticking to it. Ellen also shares her practice of mental prayer and the personal apostolate she started at the Catholic school where she teaches.

Show Notes:

- Daily Rosary Podcast

- "Rediscover Catholicism" by Matthew Kelly

- "Time for God" by Jacques Philippe

- "Theology for Beginners" by Frank Sheed

As many may know, City on a Hill has been led by Father Andrew Mattingly as Director & Chaplain of City on a Hill since the summer of 2016. Through mutual discernment with Bishop Johnston and Fr. Mattingly, in the summer of 2021 City on a Hill became its own, independent lay apostolate. In light of this shift, one of the next goals was for the newly formed board of directors to hire a full-time lay director. It is only fitting that a lay apostolate would be led by a lay director, allowing an assigned chaplain to spend time bringing the Sacraments to the young adults and allowing a lay director to inspire the mission of young adults!

Catherine shares her testimony and how the Lord has been ever present in her life since a young age. Learn how Catherine shares her gifts to inspire those around her. She dives deep into what it means to seek healing in the Lord and how to identify charisms in others. Catherine also shares some of her favorite books and resources to continue to grow and learn more about the Catholic faith daily. Continue to pray for Catherine as she begins her new role as Director of City on a Hill! 

Show Notes:

- "Interior Freedom" by Jacques Philippe

- "I Believe in Love: A Personal Retreat Based on the Teaching of St. Therese of Lisieux" by Jean C. J. d'Elbee

- "The Screwtape Letters" by C.S. Lewis

- Benedictine College

- The Avila Institute: School of Spiritual Formation

Father Mattingly, Director of City on a Hill, is also the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation', we will begin to record and share his Sunday homilies!

Need inspiration on growing in patience and persevering in laboring for the Lord? Tune in to this episode!! 

The first recording FROM BEYOND! A warm welcome to our favorite St. Louis Billikens’ Graduate Assistant, Dalton. Dalton shares the journey with the Lord throughout various stages as his folks got divorced, hardship struck with his grandma, as well as with his mom. When he went to college, he made lifelong friends, made intentional choices to receive the daily sacraments and learned how to build a prayer life. He’s got an infectious joy and an earnest faith- listen in to learn from Dalton!

Show notes:
- Fr. Mattingly and Dain met Dalton at the JP2 Commons.
- After graduation, he became a graduate assistant for the Billikens basketball team.
- He recently consecrated himself to St. Joseph.
- Matthew 6:25-34.
- And a shameless plug for Andy’s…

Nick and Maddie Occhiogrosso, both transplants from the Northeast, sit down with Fr. Mattingly to share their stories of conversion. 

Maddie recalls never really doubting her faith in Jesus, even from childhood, attributed to a nurturing beginning and firm family foundation. Nick, too, grew up in a family rooted in the Catholic Church... though he shares of his overcoming of the vice of pride. Together they speak to their dating relationship and the temptations they faced, and the very radical steps they took to preserve the chastity and sanctity of the nature of their relationship! 

Now residing in Kansas City with their six kids, speak to living a simple, low-tech life and how that allows a sense of silence. Both Nick & Maddie share their personal pursuits of holiness, but how it naturally spills over into their family life overall. But don't fret, the episode rounds out with sharing the craziness of family life! 

Show Notes: 

Christendom College 

How to Profit from your Faults by Joseph Tissot

Father Mattingly, Director of City on a Hill, is also the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation', we will begin to record and share his Sunday homilies!

Fr. Mattingly dives into what we believe, as Catholics, in the role of physical pain in our lives. We are body and soul, and each of us experience some sort of physical pain in our lives. Father Mattingly shares some practical ways on how to approach the physical pain we experience! 

The Farrells speak into their past relationships and their re-focused intention to seek the Lord. The Lord was very formative in their relationship through a variety of activities, but namely through a committed weekly Holy Hour.

After ending an engagement, Justin waited another 7 years to find Bridget. She was worth the wait! Justin was intentional in their conversations and Bridget appreciated his efforts. Time went on, and as they say, the rest is history. They already had relationships with the Lord and have allowed Him to guide them in this new phase of marriage and parenthood.

Show notes:
- Justin’s CD is available on Apple Music. 

- The Surrender Novena helped Abigail take a bottle. It can help you too!

Lee Volmer hadn’t gone to Mass at all over his time in college. His senior year, he was signed up to  go on a mission trip by a friend who ended up not joining him, and he encountered the Lord there. When he came back to Northwest, he went to confession and radically encountered the Lord’s mercy after being away from the sacrament for 6 years! He is currently discerning a call to the priesthood as a seminarian at Kenrick-Glennon in St. Louis.

Show notes: 

- Northwest Missouri State Newman Center: http://northwestnewman.com/
- FOCUS: https://www.focus.org/what-we-do/campus-life

Shelby Hennen shares a very relatable testimony about placing her worth in accomplishments and her work. However, a sudden turn of events left her questioning her identity in Christ. When we place our worth in our treasures, rather than in God, and those things are taken away, it has the potential to lead to a pivotal moment in a person’s life. Tune in to hear how Shelby navigated these challenges and strives to live on mission every day. Shelby shares how she pursues a relationship with Christ in prayer and practical tips on how to live this out.

Welcome to the City on a Hill podcast!! 

Our hope is to launch the podcast in the next month and celebrate so by releasing a handful of episodes at once!! 

Meet your hosts: Father Andrew Mattingly, Director of City on a Hill, and Dain Finney, Assistant Director of Mission! 

Father Mattingly, Director of City on a Hill, is also the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation', we we will begin to record and share his Sunday homilies.

In the Gospel of John (chapter 9), Jesus heals a blind man. How is the relatable to you in present day? In this homily, Father Mattingly expounds upon this question and how to come to the answers to life's biggest questions, to discover truths rooted in faith. 

Our first episode of 2021 is one you will not want to miss! Gordon and Katrina Schmitz seem to do it all for City on a Hill - listen in now to learn how their passion and zeal came to be!

Katrina… even after having an encounter with God, wanted to find a group of young adults who believed what she did. Her first taste was in Peoria, IL but then moved to Maryville, MO. She routinely drove to Kansas City to find community! Eventually, she moved to KC permanently. Gordon went on a retreat and encountered the Lord. He still had highs and lows, but had a base level of happiness established after encountering the Lord better than he’d known. He selected Benedictine to take the faith seriously in order to let it grow. He also came to KC in an effort to find another community to help foster his faith.

Show notes:
- Katrina & Gordon both discovered how hard it is to live for what you believe in without people around you! They both compete regularly in Catholic Challenge Sports.
- Katrina joined a Sisterhood group once she moved to KC. She recently led a women’s group using this study.
- Gordon has been a part of Band of Brothers.
- AND their first child is due in February. Pray for little Schmitz :)

Kicking off Season 3 with a very special guest.... 

Jackie Marko is one of a kind, a treasure trove of humor, lovely gal we are so fortunate to sit down with!! 

Jackie shares of her testimony, how an important moment post-grad was, actually, COVID. As a photographer, she took the time in lock down to start a photo journal, taking a photo every day. In this time to learned the beauty of daily reflection... which led to a commitment of a nightly examen. Jackie took the traditional examen format, but tweaked the words to fit her own heart and mind. At the end of each day, upon completing her examen, she writes down the one way she wants to 'be better tomorrow', and leaves it on her nightstand to remind her in the morning! 

Jackie is helping lead the way in the first-ever Undivided Retreat!! This retreat is one you will not want to miss - time to get away from the fall busyness and hear six inspiring topics by six incredible speakers! October 15-17, 2021 at Prairie Star Ranch. Register today! Come learn how to live a life fully for Christ, fully undivided! 

Show notes: 

- Famous Hot Rod Video, featuring Jackie the stunt man

*PSA It is important that you watch Hot Rod otherwise you will not appreciate this in its entirety. And please also know the dream described at the beginning is an actual dream I actually had the night before we made this film.

- Undivided Retreat 

- Better in the Morning song by Birdtalker

- Benedictine College (Ravens will soar!) 

Lilly is likened to Travis Kelce. Buckle up, folks! Just wait until she starts talking about Jesus. Lilly came to know the love of Jesus with the help of a Francisan friar. She’s grown in her faith through diligent intercessory prayer. At the close of the episode, she prays over the listeners too. Soak in the goodness she offers to you!

Show notes: 

- An article about the priest who changed Lilly’s life. 

- And a bit about the CFR order. 

- Because we know you’re never eaten it, or heard of it for that matter, infamous Cherry Mash. 

- Pray the rosary with Mike’s daily rosary.

Father Mattingly, Director of City on a Hill, is also the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation', we will begin to record and share his Sunday homilies.

Tune in to hear Father draw out three essential elements from this week’s readings that explain God’s plan for salvation for each of us!

Tyler Suppalla’s shares his journey to Christ through authentic friendship, discernment, and finding value and meaning in every moment.

Tyler talks about how in discernment, he felt this call to the priesthood... but he had a vision of Joseph, receiving Mary as his betrothed and what that call meant for him. Listen now for the whole story!

Will has a contagious joy and childlike trust in God’s mercy that surfaced in a unique way through the Community of the Lamb. Will used to play basketball on Monday nights… then after one Monday night with the Community of the Lamb, he gave up the league.  Now, he routinely goes door to door with mendicants to beg for food for the Community!

Show notes: 

- Will leads a Monday night group with the Community of the Lamb. Find information here. 

- For Community of the Lamb information in general click here.

Father Mattingly, Director of City on a Hill, is also the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation' we share his Sunday homilies.

"He has done all things well." People were drawn to the Lord, because of this. Because Jesus did all things well, people were attracted to him. 

Miss Catherine Kluempers hailed from Atchison, KS to sit down with Fr. Mattingly and Taylor Furrer. This episode is steeped with goldmines of truth and encouragement in learning to more clearly hear the Father's voice in prayer! Catherine started off with a story of when she was in kindergarten. When asked what she would want to be when she grew up, she answered 'Saint Catherine of the Rainbow' spreading joy wherever she goes. And it is true that she does so! 

Catherine shares of her realization of how important prayer is, that without daily prayer we lack a necessary piece of our relationship with the Lord. She notes the perseverance it took to cultivate the habit of prayer - through reading good books and conversing good friends. Catherine notes that in Time for God, she read that the devil will stop at nothing to distract us from prayer... and that alone ought to prove how important prayer alone is! 

Show notes: 

- Time for God 

- Catherine's music 

- Reform Wellness 

Anne Schwartz shares how she first truly realized God’s existence after a wild experience in the 8th grade. Anne, Fr. Mattingly, and Marco chat about how to keep your prayer life strong after the initial spark of a conversion. They discuss the importance of having a spiritual mentor in leading us to sainthood and how this has greatly impacted Anne in her spiritual journey since graduating college. They discuss what perseverance looks like in “the real world” and how even the greatest saints had mentors.

Anne currently works at KU Med as a physical therapist in the patient burn unit. She shares her talents through leading a Sisterhood group through City on a Hill and is a member of the Hospitality Team.

Show Notes:

- Spiritual Mentorship through School of Faith

- Interested in joining a Sisterhood group through City on a Hill? Email sisterhoodkc@gmail.com to learn more and get connected with a group!

- Blessed is She studies for small groups

Father Mattingly is the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation', we we will begin to record and share his Sunday homilies!

This episode features his Homily from January 24, 2021. First reading: Jonah 3:1-5, 10. Second reading: 1 Corinthians 7:29-31. Gospel: Mark 1:14-20. 

Jackson McElroy shares how his faith has slowly strengthened over the years through constant pursuit of the capital “T” (Truth). Although Jackson learned the what of the Catholic faith growing up, once he started learning more about the how and why in college, he began to think about things in a deeper way. His gradual persistence in keeping the faith let God open his eyes to think and love better.

Jackson is a Kansas City native and now works as a Data Analyst at Hallmark. Jackson and Fr. Mattingly discuss how dressing well and elevating your language can point to the dignity of those around you and how this can apply in the workplace and other secular settings.

Show Notes:

- The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis

- Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis

- Exodus 90

Sam and Adrienne Volkmer chat about their lives in Kansas City since moving here, meeting each other while on a run, getting married, and starting their family. They both share similar stories from living their faith lukewarm to being surrounded by people who encouraged them to pursue Christ on a more intimate level.

They are currently striving for holiness by praying with scripture, saying a daily rosary, and praying together as a couple. They also discuss the apostolate of the dinner table and Fr. Mattingly gives important insight on having intentional conversations.

Show Notes: 

- University of Nebraska Lincoln Newman Center 

- Band of Brothers is a community of men who meet regularly in small groups to hold each other accountable in pursuing holiness in the modern world. Email bandofbrothers.coah@gmail.com if you have questions or want to sign up. 

- Sisterhood is focused on building authentic, feminine friendships centered on Christ. Each group is unique in the content they choose and the frequency with which they meet! Email sisterhoodkc@gmail.com to learn more or find a group! 

- Catholic Challenge Sports, often called CCS, is more than a sports league. CCS challenges you to connect mind, body, and soul. Check out a seasonal sports league or sign up for a 1-day tournament!

- In Conversation with God

Abigail Byron-Goslin is a Georgia transplant to Kansas City! She currently works as the Director of Campus Ministry for the Diocese of Kansas City - Saint Joseph.

Abigail shares, in detail, of her dramatic conversion -- from living in the darkness to being brought into the light of Christ! Listen to hear how she went from a young girl raised in the Church, to pursuing a degree in filmmaking, to giving her life to Christ in every way she can!

Father Mattingly, Director of City on a Hill, is also the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation', we will begin to record and share his Sunday homilies!

In honor of Corpus Christi Sunday, Father Mattingly shares a number of modern day stories about the Eucharist. Listen to this episode today to stir up your love of Jesus, especially in the Eucharist! 

Father Mattingly is associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. 

In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation', we we will begin to record and share his Sunday homilies! 

This episode features his Homily from the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord (January 3, 2021). 

David and Rachel Bennier met while at Benedictine College. Since those formative college days, their love has grown through the sacrament of marriage. And their family has grown, too! Expecting baby #7 soon!!   

Tune into this episode to hear the joy that flows from the sacrifices they make in married and family life!

Show notes: 

- FOCUS bible study at, both, Benedictine College & University of Nebraska - Lincoln 

- Opus Dei

- Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

- Little Sisters of the Poor

- Article on Frequent Confession

Jack Oxley grew up in Kansas City in a home where the Catholic faith was not modeled before the age of 10. As he grew older, he noticed a distinction between non-denominational churches and the Catholic faith and was ultimately drawn towards Catholicism. Jack now works at Holy Family School of Faith, a Catholic organization!

Jack and Fr. Mattingly chat about how to deepen friendships and invest in people. They also discuss why it so important to have good, holy people in your life.

Show Notes:

- Tuesday’s Crew

- School of Faith

Father Mattingly, Director of City on a Hill, is also the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation' we share his Sunday homilies.

The Gospel for the next few weeks will come from John chapter 6, the chapter where Jesus most extensively teaches on the Eucharist. Fr. Mattingly will spend the next few weeks preaching on various aspects of the Blessed Sacrament.

Listen to the homily from August 22 to hear about receiving Holy Communion, on the hand or on the tongue. 

Our FINAL episode of Season 2! Thanks for sticking around for the full season. 

Last up we have Mr. Lane Barnhill - our grand finale, an episode you won’t want to miss! 

Stay tuned for our Season 3 launching in mid-September with a refreshed vision— taking a practical look at how our podcast guests are pursuing sainthood! 

The Gospel reading of the transfiguration begs the question of why Jesus would share this moment with Peter, James, and John. Father Mattingly explains how this moment was to strengthen their faith & remind the apostles of their calling. 

Father Mattingly is the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation', we we will begin to record and share his Sunday homilies!

This episode features a Homily from February 28, 2021. First reading: Genesis 22:1-18. Psalm: 116. Second reading: Romans 8:31-34. Gospel: Mark 9:2-10.

Drew & Melora Williams share their personal conversions of heart as well as their discernment in marriage. Both Drew & Melora had gradual conversions growing in intimacy with the Lord. They are now navigating how to cultivate a culture of prayer within their family life - a practical conversation that most Christian families struggle to implement in their own homes. Fun fact: when the podcast was recorded, they only had one kiddo out of utero, and now there are two.

Show notes: 

- Rolla Newman Center: https://www.rollanewman.org/

Father Mattingly, Director of City on a Hill, is also the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation', we will begin to record and share his Sunday homilies!

Fr. Mattingly shares the importance of resting well, and some practical tips on how to rest well to glorify the Lord. If you are perpetually exhausted, mentally or physically, this is a homily for you! 

In light of the Gospel where Jesus is tempted in the desert, Fr. Mattingly shares what temptations are and how to combat against them! 

Father Mattingly is the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation', we we will begin to record and share his Sunday homilies!

This episode features a Homily from February 21, 2021. First reading: Genesis 9:8-15. Psalm: 25. Second reading: Peter 3:18-22. Gospel: Mark 1:12-15.

Greg is a man of many talents: from motorcycles, to carpentry, to reading, to pursuing the heart of Jesus. Greg is a gift to many and it is an honor to have him heading up the Band of Brothers apostolate - small groups for men in Kansas City!  

Greg never ceases to follow the Lord through his desire for adventure and zeal for souls - from campus, to being a FOCUS missionary, to living life in KC. Tune in now for book recommendations and outdoorsman tips!

Show notes: 

Band of Brothers

Missionaries of the Poor - Kingston Jamaica 

"A man is rich in proportion to the number of things which he can afford to let alone." - Henry David Thoreau 

Lover of Quiktrip 

Communion and Liberation  

The Way - St. Josemaría Escrivá

The Complete Stories - Flannery O'Conn0r 

Everlasting Man - G.K. Chesterton

Father Mattingly, Director of City on a Hill, is also the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation' we share his Sunday homilies. 

The Gospel for the next 6 weeks will come from John chapter 6, the chapter where Jesus most extensively teaches on the Eucharist. Fr. Mattingly will spend the next 6 weeks (aside from Aug. 15, as he will be out of town) preaching on various aspects of the Eucharist. 

Listen to the homily from July 25 to hear on how to grow in piety of the Eucharist. Fr. Mattingly gives a few practical ways to increase reverence and piety for the Eucharist! 

The most welcoming man in Kansas City: Mark Sappington! Listen to Mark share his conversion -- from learning how to live a life of order amidst minor league baseball to beginning to cultivate a life of prayer!

Mark was born as the second of six kids, and learned discipline by cleaning toilets every week (only after mouthing off to his very pregnant mother). He went to college, and then played baseball professionally; all the while, being open and receptive to the mercy of the Lord. As he worked to cultivate a life of prayer, he learned to abide in the Lord. Mark eventually found his way back to Kansas City, learning how to be an adult after being cut from Major League Baseball.

Show notes:
- Want your kids to learn from this retired all-star altar boy? Check out Our Lady of Good Counsel in Westport. 

- John 15: abide and rest in the Lord.
“I just can’t say enough about taking responsibility for your own spiritual growth and trusting that the Lord is going to meet you there. Pray everyday, like pray, like actually pray. If you don’t know how to pray, just start praying. Tell the Lord ‘I don’t know how to pray.’” - Mark

Episode #002: Sam + Emily Sharpe

They have been described as complementarity at its finest!!! Both Sam and Emily wrestled with difficult questions within their lives but at very different points. After leaving behind a life of sin, and then a life as a religious brother, Sam pursued Emily with everything that he had. When Emily was asking, Lord, am I going to stay with you? Sam came in to bring her Him and His joy.

Show notes:

- Master’s degree in common sense. Email Sam directly: samsharpekc@gmail.com.

- Sam and Emily met at Franciscan University : https://franciscan.edu/

Madison Allen shares her journey with Christ as he revealed himself to her in a number of unique experiences. She speaks about her time of discernment and what it was like to transition back to “normal” life after living at the Madonna House in Ontario, Canada for a brief time (an apostolate of a Catholic community of men, women and priests, dedicated to loving and serving Jesus Christ in all aspects of everyday life).

Madison continues to serve those around her in the little ways and by bringing Christ to those who may be lonely. She is continually on mission to do what delights the heart of the Father.

Show Notes: 

- Essence of Prayer by Ruth Burrows

- The Community of the Lamb in Kansas City

- 33 Days to Merciful Love by Fr. Michael Gaitley

- The Madonna House 

Seth Hummer comes from a family of all boys! He shares how his own conversion to the love of the Lord happened in the same time that other family members experienced their own conversion. Their family experienced their own healing, amidst their conversions to the Lord - listen in to hear more about Seth's own journey to the Lord!

SHOW NOTES:

- NCYC

- TEC

- 12-step program  

- SPO KC 

- Tuesday Crew 

- HALTS – Hungry Angry Lonely Tired Sick or Stressed  

- Midwest Family Adopts Homeless Man - Youtube Video

- "Language of Letting Go" by Melody Beattie 

- Northwest Missouri State Newman Center

Jeff Shields sits down with Fr. Mattingly to chat about how his faith has been strengthened over the years. Jeff shares how he is striving for holiness on a daily basis by acknowledging that every person we encounter is a child of God. Changing his perspective has deepened his own faith and relationships with those around him.

Show Notes: 

- Tuesdays at the Boulevard : 6 times a year, 200+ young adults attend Mass together, complete with beautiful music. Following Mass, we walk across the parking lot Boulevard Brewery and it costs $15 for Waldo pizza and Boulevard beer. Check out the link for more information! 

- Band of Brothers is a community of men who meet regularly in small groups to hold each other accountable in pursuing holiness in the modern world. Email bandofbrothers.coah@gmail.com if you have questions or want to sign up.

Fr. Mattingly sits down with Co-Host Marco Casanova to chat with, the one and only, Cody Hummer. Cody shares of his testimony, how finding good community rooted in Christ ultimately lead him out of the party lifestyle and deeper into his faith. Now Cody lives in Kansas City and is truly a social force with a gift of connecting people. 

Cody shares how focusing on daily silent prayer keeps his life in alignment and the value of accountability in friendships while running towards Christ. Through learning to love others well, Cody has come to understand more about himself and using his talents to expand the Lord’s Kingdom.

Show Notes:

- Benedictine College

- FOCUS

Father Mattingly, Director of City on a Hill, is also the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation' we share his Sunday homilies.

On the week of the memorial of St. Faustina, Fr. Mattingly speaks about the life of the saint and the Lord's intention for the message of Divine Mercy. He shares what we can learn from St. Faustina, specifically her firm resolve to become a saint, specific resolutions she made in order to grow toward sainthood, and her fulfillment of her personal mission from God – spreading and embodying the message of His Divine Mercy.

This episode features his homily from 10/10/21, and is based on the Mass readings for the memorial of St. Faustina at the Shrine of Divine Mercy in Kansas City, Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish. 

Michael Collins hangs out with Fr. Mattingly and shares about his life story, from having been raised Catholic to needing to develop Faith in Jesus and the Church for himself. 

At the very end of college, Michael shares that for about one year he did not identify as Catholic. Michael shares some deep reflection on the top three reasons why he strayed from the Faith, but notes that good friendship saved him. Michael shares how he and friends continue to band together and pursue the Lord together, specifically through reading scripture together! 

Michael is overall upbeat and positive, a friend you'd want to have! In fact, you can attend his Small Get-Together, Frozen Fellowship, every Monday this summer. Frozen Fellowship is quite literally building friends over ice cream! The perfect summer event :) 

Show notes: 

- Frozen Fellowship

Father Mattingly, Director of City on a Hill, is also the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation', we will begin to record and share his Sunday homilies!

#005 Lee McMahon

Lee: “Why is your family so happy?”

Future wife: “I don’t know, but want to go to Mass with us this Sunday?”

Lee: “Sure! What’s the Mass?”

Over time, Lee went to Mass and pursued his girlfriend and eventually asked her to be his wife. He grew up in an unchurched home. But his wife’s mother, Katrina, was the one who reassured him and helped Lee with many of his questions with the Catholic church.

Show notes:

- KU Newman Center: https://kucatholic.org/

- RCIA at Good Counsel: https://www.goodcounselkc.org/become-catholic

Episode #001: Andrew Marquez

“I was panicked and didn’t know where to go. Mom said, “vete a confesar, mi niño!”” Andrew started living for the world bit by bit and eventually a Sunday night near-panic attack sent him on a search. He called his mom and she told him to go to confession. An immediate dark to light conversion story.

Show notes:
- Andrew prays the rosary with his family several times a week through Mike’s rosary : https://www.schooloffaith.com/rosary-archive

- Band of Brothers group : https://www.kansascityonahill.org/small-groups

A skit demonstrating a backpack being emptied was a revolutionary moment in Ali’s life. She encountered Jesus as the Savior of her life and became His disciple - seeing Him as gentle and challenging. Even if scruples or perfectionism get the best of you in daily life, He’s present. Ali’s life is a testament to that!

Show notes: 

- A shameless plug for the book Fr. M recommended about “being grounded in things”called Out of the Ashes.  

-And Dain’s recommendation for better understanding the call of perfection in the Christian life called The Heart of Perfection.
- For those curious about the wichita flag, or the term for someone from Wichita, is, upon research, referred to as a Wichitan. :)

Father Mattingly, Director of City on a Hill, is also the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation', we we will begin to record and share his Sunday homilies.

Listen to this episode today, to prepare your heart to enter into Holy Week! Have you ever thought about the wounds of Christ in correlation with how quickly He is to offer forgiveness? 

Elizabeth is the THIRD Sappington to appear as a guest on the podcast! What a gift!  

Elizabeth is real, courageous, and vulnerable as she shares her discovery of the Lord's greatest gift... his merciful heart!! Through the witness of her brother, she had a transformation to the Lord and his mercy! Tune in to hear how Elizabeth navigated life in a big family, to young adulthood, and currently working as a nurse. All ways that she herself has offered mercy to others! 

Fr. Mattingly chats with Ignateus Marten as he shares his journey from lukewarm catholic to on fire for his faith. The two discuss how God moves into the human struggle and helps you carry the cross, rather than simply remove it. Ignateus shares many nuggets of wisdom he has learned over the years through his healing journey and involvement with City on a Hill.

Show Notes:

- Unwanted: How Sexual Brokenness Reveals Our Way to Healing | by Jay Stringer

- Four Loves | by C.S. Louis

When Joe was little he would spend the day running errands with his mom and his mom would bribe good behavior with McDonald's french fries. She would catch him doing the sign of the cross and praying before enjoying his post-errand snack! Tune in for talk on philosophy and annecdotes into his journey with Christ.

- Prayer of St. Joseph Cupertino for students 

- John Paul II Newman Center (UMKC / Rockhurst)  

- Pray for Joe and Killian, for their future marriage!

When she graduated college, she had also completed another tremendous accomplishment... she wrote a book! After college, Megan took a job across the country and lived away from people she was comfortable with. When she came back to KC, surrounded by people she knew, she was afraid of the comforts of friendship and familiarity. God was the constant in both as well as courage to press into the season. **Disclaimer, for the first five minutes while Megan talks, there’s a buzzing sound. Press on, it goes away. Mea culpa- Dain**

Show Notes: 

- “The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet.”  Frederick Buechner
- Say a prayer in gratitude for Sheryl’s life :) And for any mentors in your own life!
- If you would like to purchase Megan’s book, A Heart for the World, you can do so here.

To train up for his badge… Joe endured pepper spray in his eyes, getting tazed, a “fight for your life scenario”, but that’s nothing compared to the journey he’s had in pursuing a relationship with God.

Joe moved around a lot as a kid. His family settled in sixth grade in Wichita, going to Catholic schools throughout all of the moves. Learning about the faith was good, but he was always seeking a deep connection with classmates. He was bullied, harassed, and emotionally abused; therefore, he disengaged from his emotions to cope with it all. As time went on, he found ways to re-engage his emotions and hear the power in his own story as a part of the history of salvation.

Show notes: 

- Joe was involved with the Newman Center at KSU.  You can’t not hear his amazing recording voice. 

- For more of it, tune into his very own podcast about the Saints, entitled The Heavenly Social.

Favorite quote on the show… “getting OC sprayed, I call that Satan urinating in your eyes...”

Father Mattingly, Director of City on a Hill, is also the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation' we share his Sunday homilies.

The Gospel for the next few weeks will come from John chapter 6, the chapter where Jesus most extensively teaches on the Eucharist. Fr. Mattingly will spend the next few weeks (aside from Aug. 15, as he will be out of town) preaching on various aspects of the Eucharist.

Listen to the homily from August 1 to hear on the worthy reception of the Eucharist! Fr. Mattingly shares how you personally can be prepared to receive the Eucharist, as well as a breakdown on the Canon Law of the reception of the Eucharist. 

She’s had a slew of nicknames such as, Sue, Suze, Suzer, Susie, Susie Q, Sue Bear, Snowman, sister but today she earned a new one: woodpecker. Tune in and hear how it came about :)

Growing up, the Spechts inculcated the catholic faith  and a habit of virtuous living their 8 children. After a season of extreme suffering, Susan had her eyes opened to the dependency she has on God and His healing touch in her life.  She dove into loving and surrendering in full force.

Show notes: 

- Adoration at St. Joseph’s parish kept Susan sustained in trying times.  

- Susan is the head coach at SMNW and coaches her girls with challenge and charity.

"The journey to sainthood is a lifelong thing… I’ve realized more and more throughout discernment that the Lord needs time to work with and on me." Listen to hear of Paul Sappington, seminarian for the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph, share of his life and discernment!

Show notes: 

- Paul attended Missouri S&T, and mentions the Rolla Newman Center. 

- Pray for the seminarians from the KC-SJ diocese.

The power of one woman’s invitation … thank you Haley Cunningham!  Both Collin and Elizabeth knew deep heartache and pain at young ages. Through their suffering, they learned how to love others and found the Lord and eventually each other through the Newman Center thanks to Haley Vonfeldt (now Cunningham).

Show notes: 

- Emporia State Newman Center: https://www.diddecenter.org/

- Totus Tuus: https://www.totustuus.church/projects

- They had just found the day before recording (and didn’t share on the show), but Collin and Elizabeth are pregnant with their first child! Please pray for their little one :)

Jarrad Condreay grew up in a Catholic family in Wichita. Although he had great faith formation growing up, he began to question his faith when his family faced some difficult challenges during his sophomore year of college. After realizing it was faith that got them through it, he began to seek more involvement in Catholic community. After discovering City on a Hill, Jarrad has gotten involved in a variety of ways—pushing himself out of his comfort zone. Jarrad is on the hospitality team, was the Mass Hospitality lead for City Lights 2021, and leads a Band of Brothers group.

Jarrad and Fr. Mattingly discuss the need to go from being a “comfortable Catholic” to putting yourself out there and digging deeper into community. They also discuss the benefits of frequent confession and how specificity in confession can fuel humility.

Show Notes:

- “The Screwtape Letters” by C.S. Lewis

- Band of Brothers is a community of men who meet regularly in small groups to hold each other accountable in pursuing holiness in the modern world. Email bandofbrothers.coah@gmail.com if you have questions or want to sign up.

- Sisterhood is focused on building authentic, feminine friendships centered on Christ. Each group is unique in the content they choose and the frequency with which they meet! Email sisterhoodkc@gmail.com to learn more or find a group!

- KC Underground

This week, Fr. Mattingly and Taylor Downey sit down with Jordyn Kukla as she shares how the Lord has pursued her heart over the last few years. Hear how Jordyn uncovered her feelings of unworthiness and the way it extended into her life. The promptings of the Lord and those around her pointed her towards a more accurate depiction of how God truly sees her. Jordyn shares the ways she worships the Lord daily and one thing she does to grow in humility that may surprise you! This episode is packed full of goodness and one you do not want to miss!

Show Notes:

- “Be Healed” by Bob Schuts

- Maverick City Music

- SPO (Saint Paul’s Outreach)

Father Mattingly, Director of City on a Hill, is also the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation' we share his Sunday homilies.

Father Mattingly, Director of City on a Hill, is also the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation', we we will begin to record and share his Sunday homilies.

Father Mattingly hits on four or five points on what the Catholic Church believes regarding the salvation of souls! First and foremost: God desires salvation of all human beings, and desires for every person to be in heaven with him and to come to knowledge of the truth. Tune in to hear more, including a call to action!

Sean and Jamie met through Nature's Calling, a Catholic young adult camping event. They now have three kiddos and share about living out family life as young Catholics. They give an inside look at how to navigate saying yes in family life!

Show Notes: 

- Society of St. Pius X
- Truman State University Hospital
- Opus Dei
- Children's Mercy Hospital
- Domestic Church
- Jacques Phillipe - Time for God (Jamie's pick!)
- Spiritual Direction
- https://www.naturescall.camp/

Father Mattingly is the associate pastor at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kansas City, MO. In an effort to tap into the City on a Hill pillar of 'formation', we we will begin to record and share his Sunday homilies!

This episode features his Homily from January 32, 2021. First reading: Deuteronomy 18:15-20. Psalm: 95. Second reading: 1 Corinthians 7:32-35. Gospel: Mark 1:21-28.

Alex Weibel and Fr. Mattingly chat about many specific moments in Alex's life that have ultimately lead to a deepening of her faith over time. Alex shares how she strives to be heroic in the small moments every day and how this has made her more willing and able to face larger things head on. Alex also describes ways she welcomes others into her home and why hospitality and creating a space for others in your home is so important.

Alex is originally from Minnesota and currently teaches 1st grade at Stanley Elementary in Kansas City.

Show Notes: 

- Capen Rock Park in Columbia, MO

Miss Samantha sits down with Fr. Mattingly and Taylor Furrer, to share how in childhood she experienced, first, and intellectual conversion. Having been raised Catholic, she was exposed to transcendental media and had a great love of reading. Moving from high school to college, she experienced her first realm of temptation - having a lot of choices to make on her own for the first time. 

Through her time at Purdue University, Sam experienced conversion on many levels. She was recruited to join the swim team, which provided opportunities for growth in humility, some genuine friendships, and, most importantly, that she is lovable despite all that she does - she is lovable just by her being!