Today we're diving into the heart of our parish's latest endeavor: the Together in Christ Capital Campaign. Joining us is Robert Twist, a key leader in this transformative initiative. In this episode, Rob shares the inspiration behind the campaign, its progress, and its $4 million goal aimed at eliminating debt and funding vital projects like a new chapel. We discuss how the campaign has been received by the parish community, the financial strategies underpinning it, and the broader vision for our parish's future. Whether you're a longtime parish member or new to our community, this conversation offers invaluable insights into how we can all come together in Christ to ensure a thriving future for Mary Queen. So, tune in and find out how you can be part of this important mission!

Fr. Michael shares his personal journey to the priesthood, from his Catholic upbringing in Pennsylvania to eventually being ordained after facing some challenges along the way. He discusses his experiences serving in various parishes and leadership roles in Kentucky. Fr. Michael also touches on his involvement in healing ministry. He expresses excitement to now be at Mary Queen parish where he looks forward to focusing on priestly ministry duties and using his diverse background and gifts to proclaim the greatness of the Lord, in alignment with the parish's mission.

Jim Fritz, Judy Cornett, and Kabby Akers explore the incredible journey and mission behind the Little Mountain School in Guatemala.

Join us as we delve into the origins and growth of this life-changing educational initiative, which began in 2015 with the vision of Father Miguel and Forest Day. Learn how this small project has blossomed into a bustling school providing education and nourishment to over 180 students, all thanks to dedicated fundraising efforts like the Coffee Sales at Mary Queen parish.

We’ll also hear heartwarming stories from Jim, Judy, and Kabby about their transformative trips to Guatemala, the impact of the school's programs, and how this mission has brought their community closer together. From coffee sales to sponsorships to unforgettable tours, discover how you can get involved and make a difference in the lives of these children.

Don’t miss this heartwarming episode that perfectly embodies our mission to receive God's love, proclaim the greatness of the Lord, serve joyfully, and make missionary disciples of Jesus Christ. Tune in and be inspired!

https://www.guatemalaneducationaloutreach.org/

https://www.geocoffeeandtours.com/tours/

In this episode of Mary Queen Stories, host Jennifer Longworth chats with Mike Allen, a Mary Queen parishioner and the director of family life and evangelization for the Diocese of Lexington. Mike explains his role in supporting parish ministries, particularly focusing on fostering stronger marriages through programs like Grace Marriage. He details how Grace Marriage offers quarterly mini-retreats designed to enrich and sustain marriages by providing couples with intentional time for reflection, discussion, and community building. Mike also discusses the adaptability and parish-centered nature of the program, ensuring it's accessible and engaging for busy couples. The conversation underscores the importance of nurturing marriages within the church and aligning individual efforts with the parish’s mission to receive God's love, serve joyfully, and make missionary disciples.

To learn more and register for Grace Marriage, visit MQHR.org/gracemarriage

Peggy Gabriel is a passionate member of our parish's Care of Creation Committee and the co-chair of the Laudato Si Commission for the Diocese of Lexington, and she brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to our discussion.

In this episode, we explore the foundational principles of the Laudato Si encyclical, authored by Pope Francis and dedicated to caring for our common home. Peggy sheds light on how this important document inspires our parish's efforts to live out our faith through environmental stewardship. From organizing the annual Blessing of the Animals on the feast of St. Francis to hosting vegetarian potlucks and compiling a related e-cookbook, Peggy details the innovative and communal ways we are embracing this mission.

We also delve into the diocesan-wide initiatives mandated by Bishop John Stowe, including the development of customized action plans by each parish to promote sustainable practices. Peggy explains the significance of these actions and provides a glimpse into the practical steps that Mary Queen of the Holy Rosary is taking, such as enhancing recycling efforts and using compostable materials for parish events like our popular Fish Fry.

Contact Peggy through Jennifer jlongworth@cdlex.org

Learn more about Mary Queen Parish at MQHR.org

Do you have a story to share? Fill out our form at mqhr.org/podcast

Kabby Akers, who has been a dedicated parishioner since 1980, is deeply involved in the Justice Ministry at Mary Queen and plays a pivotal role in BUILD (Building a United Interfaith Lexington through Direct-Action).

In this episode, Kabby takes us through the impactful work of BUILD, an organization made up of 26 diverse congregations working together to tackle community issues by holding public officials accountable. She explains the structured process of BUILD, which starts with house meetings to gather concerns from the community and culminates in the powerful Nehemiah Action, where public officials are called to respond to proposed solutions in front of a gathering of over 1,000 community members.

From elder care and affordable housing to microtransit solutions, Kabby shares inspiring stories of grassroots change and the importance of community involvement. If you're curious about how you can make a difference or want to learn more about the transformative power of justice ministry, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we delve into the heart of community action and discover how BUILD is making Lexington a better place for everyone.

Mary Queen of the Holy Rosary, pray for us.

Contact Kabby at kakers@cdlex.org

Learn more about Mary Queen Parish at MQHR.org

Do you have a story to share? Fill out our form at mqhr.org/podcast

Cara Johnson, Formation Coordinator at MQHR, discusses her role, which involves coordinating various adult formation programs, retreats, Bible studies, and working with the Hispanic community. She shares her journey of deepening her faith and becoming more involved in the church, emphasizing her bilingual skills and experience with the RCIA (now OCIA) process. Cara highlights the importance of sponsors in the formation process and the fulfillment she finds in serving joyfully, helping others grow in their faith, and making lasting connections within the parish community.

Contact Cara at cjohnson@cdlex.org

Learn more about Mary Queen Parish at MQHR.org

Do you have a story to share? Fill out our form at mqhr.org/podcast