“As a society, we’ve never been more connected (with technology), but also never more alone,” RJ Gildea remarked during a December dinner with Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann and a group of Catholic school parents. “There’s a desire for community, but it’s very challenging to find that in today’s world. That’s really what our Catholic schools provide.”

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“There is a real partnership with families,” added Archbishop Naumann. “That sets our Catholic schools apart. Parents are committed to being involved and helping at the schools as volunteers.”

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For Andrew Torrez, giving back to his family’s school community is a blessing. Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic School in Topeka has been a source of stability and hope for him during difficult times. Despite facing marital separation, job loss, and substance abuse, he experienced unwavering support.

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“I grew up in Catholic schools, and faith has always been a big part of my life,” said Torrez. He emphasized that without scholarships from the Catholic Education Foundation (CEF), he wouldn’t have been able to send his sons to Most Pure Heart of Mary.

Other parents around the dinner table shared similar experiences. Like Torrez, their children attend Catholic schools thanks to scholarships from CEF.
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Now in its 27th year, CEF provides $5 million annually in need-based scholarships, helping approximately 1,900 students in the Archdiocese access a Catholic education this school year.

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“Our goal is to support every child who wants to attend a Catholic school,” said Gildea, chair of the CEF board of directors. “We want to walk with students from kindergarten to their high school graduation.”

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“We’re fortunate to have donors who believe in Catholic education and invest in our families,” he continued. “More than anything, we are blessed to have you, and we are deeply grateful for the sacrifices you make. It’s not something we take lightly.”

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During his homily, Archbishop Naumann reflected on how his mother’s vocation as a parent and Catholic school educator profoundly shaped his life.

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“She always had faith and taught me that God had a plan for me,” said the archbishop.

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For Isuie Arias, her children’s faith has transformed her own. Since enrolling at Resurrection Catholic School in Kansas City, Kansas, Arias’ children have developed a deep understanding of Catholicism. Tearfully, she shared how their faith inspired her to reconnect with hers.

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“My kids started asking to go to Mass,” said Arias. Now, the family attends weekly Mass together.

“My family is happier than ever because even when we face challenges, we have our faith.” - Isuie Arias, Parent of CEF Scholarship Recipient

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This sentiment resonated with parents Garrick and Eileen Lambert. When Eileen unexpectedly lost her job in 2024, the Lamberts feared they wouldn’t be able to afford tuition for their three children at St. Benedict Catholic School in Atchison.

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“CEF came to the rescue,” said Garrick Lambert. “It was a rally within our community like I’d never seen before. We were so grateful to maintain that stability, structure, and safety for our kids, along with the faith-filled foundation Catholic education provides.”

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Archbishop Naumann expressed his gratitude for the Catholic Education Foundation and the sacrifices parents make to provide their children with a Catholic education.

“Sadly, in many countries, Catholic schools are considered elite and only accessible to the wealthy,” said the archbishop.

“That’s why I’m so thankful for the Catholic Education Foundation. It helps make our schools affordable and accessible.” - Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann

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In closing, CEF Executive Director Vincent Anch thanked the parents and announced plans to expand the reach of scholarships through the new Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann Legacy Scholarship Fund.

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“We want to help more families send their children to Catholic schools,” said Anch, “and ensure our schools and Catholic communities remain strong.”