The Rhodes Ahead
February 13, 2026
From Mrs. Rhodes
Fr. Joseph has been working with me to begin his chaplain duties in the school. In Mass, you may have heard some clapping or seen dancing with him lately - he brings that same joy to the classrooms. Fr. Joseph is starting with regular monthly classroom visits and will develop a plan as he builds community with each grade level. The goals that he and I have come up with include: helping students to understand and enjoy Mass, getting to know that they are made to serve the Lord and that is where true joy is found. Fr. Joseph will also help students understand Lent - why do we stop singing Alleluia, what is the purpose of fasting (doesn't God want us to be happy?) and what does repentance look like.
Just as Mother Nature has surprised us with such beautiful weather—a gift we gratefully enjoy—God also offers us the gift of Lent, a season perfectly designed for our spiritual renewal. Let’s take full advantage of this time He gives us. May we welcome these weeks as an opportunity to grow, to reflect, and to draw closer to Him with open hearts.
May this Lent be a gentle reminder that God’s grace, like the warm days ahead, is always inviting us to step forward, breathe deeply, and be transformed.
Blessings,
Kathy
Parish Opportunities
Ash Wednesday: On February 18 there will be no confessions and an additional 7 PM Mass for Ash Wednesday.
Join Our Team: Interested in joining the Sacred Heart team? We currently have opening for a Director of Operations as well as a School Health Specialist. Find out more information or apply here.
Virtus Class: Do you plan to volunteer this year for field trips, classroom parties, CYO, SOR or Youth Ministry? Virtus Training will be held at Sacred Heart on February 19 from 6-9 pm in the Meeting Rooms. Virtus training is required for volunteers 16 years and older.
New Parishioner Happy Hour: If you are new to Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church—or were unable to attend our most recent new parishioner gathering—you are invited to join us February 26th 6:30-8:00pm. You will get the chance to hear Fr. Zarse share his parish vision, learn how to get involved, and connect with fellow parishioners with hors d’oeuvres and beverages. This event is for adults only. Register here.
Vacation Bible School Save The Date: VBS this year will be the week of June 15-19. Children's registration will open on Sunday, March 6th. Our theme this year is, "Hop on the Vatican Express with St. Jerome!" by Catholic Kidz Camp. Adults interested in volunteering can inquire with Emily Warn at emily.warn@shoj.org
MINISTRY
Food Drive: Please show some LOVE for those in need during our Catholic Charities food drive on February 14th and 15th. This month's most needed items are: Diced tomatoes, boxed meals, canned fruit, baking items, and dry beans.
Extraordinary Minister of the Eucharist Training: Interested in serving as an Extraordinary Minister of the Eucharist? There will be a training session on February 22nd at 1:00 - 2:30 PM in the Church. Sign-up here.
Marriage Mini-Retreat: Haven't complete your 8 hours of marriage enrichment? Checkout Communio's 2025 Year in Review Data here and see the importance of marriage enrichment!
All married couples are invited to a one-day Marriage Mini-Retreat on February 28th at 9:00-3:30 in the Meetings Rooms. Whether you were just married or it's been decades -this is for you! Through talks, reflection, and conversations, you’ll gain practical ways for connection, communication, and understanding. The cost is $70 per couple.
If you need childcare, please email erin.rodriguez@shoj.org. Register here.
Holy Land Pilgrimage: Step into the land of the Bible, where every stone and street tells the story of our salvation. Join Fr. Zarse and Dr. Mike Scherschligt on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land from May 1 - 11, 2026. Find more information or register here.
Serra Club: Please consider joining one of the Serra Clubs that are active in our Archdiocese. Serra Club of Kansas City in Kansas (men only) and the Serra Club of Johnson County (all welcome) support religious vocations encourage the growth and development of our members spiritual life. Find more information here.
40 Days for Life: 40 Days for life Spring campaign begins February 18- March 29 from 7am-7pm. Sign-up for vigil hours in Overland Park here.
YOUTH
Encounter Youth Rally: This isn’t just another church event—it’s a high-energy, four-hour rally designed for maximum spiritual impact event for Middle School and High School youth, and youth leaders. There will be a keynote speaker, Adoration, large group activities, and more! The rally is February 21st, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM at Good Shepherd Catholic Church.
The cost is $15 per person. Register here.
CYO Spring Sports: Registration is open for 3rd-8 graders for track and flag football. The games and practice will start in March with cost depending on the sport. To register and find more information go here.
SCHOOL
Preschool Open Enrollment: We are now enrolling for our Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic School – Preschool Program! Are you looking for a nurturing, faith-filled environment for your preschooler? We are now enrolling for the 2026-2027 school year. Help your child build a strong foundation in faith and education at Sacred Heart! Call to learn more and/or schedule a tour: Angela Rockers 913/276-3142. Enroll here.
SHOJ Rosary Ministry
St. Benedict Rosary Prayer Group will meet on the little playground at 3:06 each Wednesday to pray The Rosary (or at least part of it) for SHOJ school. All are welcome, even littles can come play while you pray. Please join us.
Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic school
Email: kathy.rhodes@shoj.org
Website: school.SHOJ.com
Location: 21801 Johnson Drive, Shawnee, KS, USA
Phone: 9134225520
Facebook: facebook.com/SacredHeartCatholicSchool