KANSAS CITY, Kan. — “As a society, we’ve never been more connected [with technology], but also never more alone,” said RJ Gildea during a December dinner with Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann and a group of Catholic school parents. Gildea serves as the chair of the board of directors of the Catholic Education Foundation (CEF), which is a program dedicated to ensuring students of all backgrounds can receive a Catholic education.
“There’s a desire for community,” he continued, “but it’s very challenging to find that in today’s world. That’s really what our Catholic schools provide.”
CEF is there to help.
“There is a real partnership with families,” agreed Archbishop Naumann. “That sets our Catholic schools apart. Parents are committed to being involved and helping at the schools as volunteers.”
For Andrew Torrez, having a chance to give back to his family’s school community is a blessing. Most Pure Heart of Mary School in Topeka has been a source of stability and hope for him during difficult times. Despite facing marital separation, job loss and substance abuse, he experienced unwavering support.
“I grew up in Catholic schools, and faith has always been a big part of my life,” said Torrez. He emphasized that without scholarships from CEF, he wouldn’t have been able to send his sons to Most Pure Heart.
Other parents around the dinner table shared similar experiences. Like Torrez, their children attend Catholic schools thanks to scholarships from CEF.
Now in its 27th year, CEF provides $5 million annually in need-based scholarships, helping approximately 1,900 students in the archdiocese access a Catholic education this school year.
“Our goal is to support every child who wants to attend a Catholic school,” said Gildea. “We want to walk with students from kindergarten to their high school graduation.”
“We’re fortunate to have donors who believe in Catholic education and invest in our families,” he continued. “More than anything, we are blessed to have you [parents], and we are deeply grateful for the sacrifices you make. It’s not something we take lightly.”
Before dinner, the group attended Mass in the chapel at the archbishop’s residence. In his homily, Archbishop Naumann reflected on how his mother’s vocation as a parent and Catholic school educator profoundly shaped his life.
“She always had faith and taught me that God had a plan for me,” said the archbishop.
For Isuie Arias, her children’s faith has transformed her own. Since enrolling at Resurrection School in Kansas City, Kansas, Arias’ children have developed a deep understanding of Catholicism. Tearfully, she shared how their faith inspired her to reconnect with hers.
“My kids started asking to go to Mass,” said Arias. Now, the family attends weekly Mass together. “My family is happier than ever because even when we face challenges, we have our faith.”
This sentiment resonated with parents Garrick and Eileen Lambert. When Eileen unexpectedly lost her job in 2024, the Lamberts feared they wouldn’t be able to afford tuition for their three children at St. Benedict School in Atchison.
“CEF came to the rescue,” said Garrick. “It was a rally within our community like I’d never seen before. We were so grateful to maintain that stability, structure and safety for our kids, along with the faith-filled foundation Catholic education provides.”
Archbishop Naumann expressed his gratitude for the Catholic Education Foundation and the sacrifices parents make to provide their children with a Catholic education.
“Sadly, in many countries, Catholic schools are considered elite and only accessible to the wealthy,” said the archbishop. “That’s why I’m so thankful for the Catholic Education Foundation. It helps make our schools affordable and accessible.”
In closing, CEF executive director Vincent Anch thanked the parents and announced plans to expand the reach of scholarships through the new Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann Legacy Scholarship Fund.
“We want to help more families send their children to Catholic schools,” said Anch, “and ensure our schools and Catholic communities remain strong.”
The Leaven is the official newspaper of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.
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