by Moira Cullings
moira.cullings@theleaven.org
OVERLAND PARK — While many young people are leaving the Catholic faith, students at St. Thomas Aquinas High School here are embracing it.
“In recent years, we’ve been very intentional about strengthening our Catholic mission and identity,” said Sarah Ikenberry, “and I believe we’re beginning to see the fruits of that effort.”
This past Easter Vigil, 10 Aquinas students and two alumni joined the Catholic Church.
Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann was the main celebrant and homilist for a special Mass at the school on April 29. Father Colm Larkin, chaplain at Aquinas, concelebrated.
Ikenberry, a campus minister at Aquinas, said Father Larkin’s presence has been particularly impactful.
“Having Father Colm with us for the past two years has brought a wonderful sense of consistency,” said Ikenberry, “and his approachable, pastoral presence has made it easier for students to express their interest in joining the church.”
For Ikenberry, witnessing so many students enter the church has been moving.
“I think it speaks volumes about the kind of community we’re building,” she said. “At Aquinas, we strive to meet students where they are and walk with them in love on their faith journey.
“Our goal is to create a space where everyone feels welcome and valued.”
To view more photos from the Easter Mass, click here.
