A quiet reflection: Catholic-inspired living at Santa Marta

by Jim Allin
Special to The Leaven

OLATHE — In a world where life often feels hurried, there’s a subtle charm in places that seem to exist outside of time — places where tradition, community and faith form the foundation of daily life. Santa Marta, a retirement community in Johnson County, is one such place. Sponsored by the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, it offers a glimpse into what it means to grow older while remaining deeply connected to one’s spiritual roots.

At its core, Santa Marta embodies Catholic values as an ethos woven into its culture. It’s a sanctuary where Mass is celebrated daily, where rosaries are prayed in quiet fellowship and where residents find moments of grace amid the rhythms of modern retirement living.

Living in faith

The chapel at Santa Marta is the centerpiece of the community, its doors always open. Here, the sacred meets the everyday in a way that feels unforced and organic. The air is often filled with the soft hum of voices in prayer, the warmth of sunlight streaming through stained glass and the laughter of neighbors who’ve become friends.

For residents like Teta Dougherty, this connection to faith and the beautiful chapel is what drew her to Santa Marta.

“Faith was my primary reason for wanting to move to Santa Marta. I attend daily Mass, and I was really thinking about what I’d do if I couldn’t drive anymore. Being able to walk to Mass from my apartment and knowing the chapel is always there — it’s such a comforting feeling,” she said. “It’s become the most important part of my life here.”

Community spirit

At Santa Marta, the community spirit transcends faith, welcoming residents of all backgrounds.

“What makes Santa Marta so special is the Catholic faith foundation, but also the warmth and kindness of everyone here,” said resident Jake Jacobsen. “It reminds me of being back in high school, where you really get to know a large group of wonderful people instead of just a few on your floor.”

The community’s structure and culture encourage connections.

“Sunday Mass is at 4 p.m., and afterward, we often stop by the bar, which is always lively, before heading to dinner at 5:30,” he said.

“There’s really a community spirit here at Santa Marta. It’s unreal how many people fill the dining room after Mass with laughter and conversation. Living here is delightful. It’s friendly. It’s truly a happy place,” said Dougherty.

The grace of community

Unlike many senior living communities, Santa Marta carries the imprint of a larger purpose. The archdiocese’s sponsorship provides not only a spiritual backbone but also a sense of continuity for residents who have spent their lives deeply involved in parish life.

To Jacobsen, faith isn’t just a personal practice — it’s a calling he lives out daily. On Tuesdays, he serves alongside the priest at Mass and also brings Communion to residents in assisted living, offering both spiritual nourishment and companionship.

“I visit 10 apartments to offer Communion, and it’s one of the most fulfilling parts of my week,” he said. “Being able to provide this to my community strengthens my own faith and fills me with a sense of purpose and gratitude.”

This sense of stewardship extends beyond the chapel walls. Residents at Santa Marta are encouraged to remain active in service, from organizing charitable drives to mentoring the younger generation. It’s a natural continuation of lives lived in devotion and service, made all the richer by a community that shares those same values.

Faithful guidance

At Santa Marta, the commitment to stewardship extends beyond its residents. Guided by a spirit of service, the community’s senior living counselors approach each conversation with patience and care, offering thoughtful guidance to seniors and their families as they navigate the often-overwhelming world of senior living options. Their role is not to persuade but to discern — to listen, understand and help individuals find the path that aligns with their needs, whether within or beyond the walls of Santa Marta.

When asked what he saw as the biggest blessings of living at a faith-inspired senior living community, Jacobsen said the following:

“For me, it’s the combination of faith, community and care. Being able to stay active in my faith, surrounded by wonderful people, in a place where every detail is thoughtfully handled — it’s more than I could have hoped for. It’s a beautiful way to live.”