by Joshua Ruoff
You have probably seen me write about BREATHE respite care ministry. Let me tell you a little more about the ministry and why it’s so important to our mission as Catholics.
BREATHE — Bessette Respite Embracing Action Toward Holy Encounters — is a ministry that provides monthly respite care for children and adults with disabilities, ages 5 and older, as well as their siblings.
The name BREATHE reflects its mission: to give families the opportunity to pause, rest and renew while knowing their loved ones are in a safe, faith-filled environment. Inspired by the compassion of St. André Bessette, the ministry embodies Christ’s call to love and serve one another, especially those who are most vulnerable.
Each month, participants gather at Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park for an evening of fun, faith, food and fellowship. The experience is tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals with disabilities while also offering their siblings an opportunity to play and build friendships. Activities include crafts, games, music and prayer. Parents and caregivers, meanwhile, are encouraged to use the time to attend to personal needs, have a date night or rest and recharge.
BREATHE is not only a blessing for families who participate — it is also a meaningful way for volunteers to live out their call to discipleship. Volunteers are the heart of the ministry, providing one-on-one companionship and ensuring that every participant feels valued and included.
Anyone 14 years or older is welcome to serve as a volunteer. Young people often find it to be a rewarding way to grow in empathy, patience and leadership. For those 16 and older, the archdiocese strongly encourages completing Virtus training, which equips volunteers with tools to help maintain a safe environment for all participants. Adults of all ages are also invited to serve, whether by assisting with hospitality, organizing activities or offering behind-the-scenes support.
Whether you are a parent seeking respite, an individual with special needs seeking community and friendship, a sibling wanting connection with your sibling or a volunteer desiring to share your gifts, BREATHE offers an encounter with Christ’s love for you, and is a place where you are wanted, needed and belong.
Through the BREATHE ministry, the special-needs ministry helps the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas continue its mission of “growing as disciples of Jesus, making disciples for Jesus.”
For more information about upcoming respite events or to sign up as a participant or volunteer, please contact the archdiocesan office of special needs at (913) 647-3054 or visit our website at: archkck.org/special-needs.
