by Derek Lyssy
As we prepare for another Deo Gratias celebration at the Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas, we pause to reflect with grateful hearts on the meaning behind its name.
“Deo gratias” is Latin for “Thanks be to God,” and that spirit of thanksgiving is at the very heart of this annual gathering.
Deo Gratias brings together supporters, donors, parish and archdiocesan leaders, along with partners from across northeast Kansas to give thanks, celebrate stewardship and recognize those whose faithful generosity strengthens the mission of the church. As St. Teresa of Calcutta reminded us, “We can do no great things, only small things with great love.” This evening reflects that truth by honoring the many ways God works through ordinary acts of faithfulness and love.
While Deo Gratias is not a fundraiser, it is one of the most meaningful evenings of the year for our foundation. It is our opportunity to simply say thank you to those who have partnered with us to build a culture that facilitates Catholic giving to sustain ministries and ensure their long-term future.
This year, we are especially grateful to honor two outstanding examples of stewardship. First, Holy Trinity, Lenexa, parishioner and estate planning attorney Casey Connealy will receive our Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas Distinguished Catholic Legacy Society Award.
Through his professional expertise and deep faith, Connealy has helped countless families understand how thoughtful planning can bring peace of mind while advancing the church’s mission. His service to parishes across the archdiocese, leadership on Holy Trinity’s finance council and commitment to legacy-giving, exemplify stewardship of time, talent and treasure.
We are also proud to recognize Holy Trinity Parish as the recipient of our Deo Gratias Distinguished Catholic Organization Award. With a forward-looking vision rooted in gratitude, Holy Trinity has made legacy giving a lived priority, inspiring parishioners to invest in the future of their parish, school and ministries so the Gospel may continue to be proclaimed for generations to come.
Connealy and Holy Trinity Parish will be honored at the Deo Gratias awards dinner on March 26 with Mass at Holy Trinity Church, followed by dinner at the Father Quigley Faith Formation Center in Lenexa.
I warmly invite you to join us for this special evening of gratitude and celebration. Go online to: cfnek.org/events/deogratias to register and RSVP online. Together, we will lift our voices in thanksgiving and joyfully proclaim, “Deo gratias; thanks be to God!”
