Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church will be dedicated on November 23.
The Catholic Church members persevered and will dedicate the new church building soon, following the devastating fire that destroyed the former building in August 2022.
St. Mary’s Catholic Church fire on August 29, 2022. Courtesy of Stephen Toal.
“We are having our first mass, a dedication mass, on Saturday, Nov 23 at 10 am,” said Mark McCoy, chairman of the church building committee. This mass is for parish members.
“The new church is looking beautiful and is in the same image and likeness of our previous church,” McCoy said
The regular mass services will begin on November 23 at 5:30 pm,
on Sunday, November 24 at 8 am and 10 am.
The members have been praying a special prayer each time they have services, for God’s guidance in the building of the church.
The prayer the Catholic Church has been praying during the church rebuild. Submitted photo.
“Having this prayer written by one of the rebuild committees was our first step,” McCoy said. “After each mass, since the fire and at gatherings and meetings, we have said that prayer.”
“Our parish members gave their time, talents and treasures to help with the rebuild.” McCoy said.
The artifacts of the church were all able to be brought back from the ashes, even the stained glass windows, McCoy said.
The cornerstone of the new Catholic Church in Fort Scott, states the church was established in 1860 and dedicated in 2024.
Restoration of the Artifacts
The professional restorer of the artifacts, Robert Ellis of Wichita, underestimated the time and cost of the restoration and started a donations account to meet the costs of time and labor of the years-long restoration.
Currently, $41,000 has been raised of the $65,000 restoration project, according to the GoFundMe page that Elliot set up.
“He wasn’t able to analyze all the depth of restoration or the artifacts at that time,” McCoy said in a prior interview. “We are so appreciative of the work he has taken on.”
One of the Stations of the Cross, following the devastating fire. Submitted photo.
When all of the stations and statues arrived at his studio, they were able to assess their condition and begin to comprehend the immense task they had undertaken, Elliot said in a prior interview.
All of the money allocated to the project was to cover the cost of labor, materials, studio rent, and insurance, he said.
One of the Stations of the Cross that was fully restored. Submitted photo.
“The Stations of the Cross and statues are completed and safely delivered and installed at the church,” Elliot said. “We succeeded in restoring every station and statue, restoring them to their original beauty and beyond.”
Elliot said a team of 34 artists, painters, apprentices, volunteers, and others helped with the 20-month project.
“We had four primary artists: Mary Francis Skinner – sculptor, painter; Kathy Faulkner – painter, researcher; Ian Snyder – painter; and myself, director/project manager, restorer, painter.
Three secondary painters: Leo and Jael Keesling, and Anna Gabriel
Two first assistant apprentices: Hector and Michael Ibarra
Four paid apprentices: John Suffield, Matan and Gabe Umbarger, Madi Brunke
Two former parishioners from MoQA, Fort Scott volunteers: Jane Clark and Pat Lowrance
Three Wichita State University Interns: Tiffany Tucker, Haylee Vu and Marshall Woodie
Three Bishop Carroll Catholic High School volunteer apprentices: Landon Whiterock and Luke Ramsick, and Amara Erwin
One homeschool high school age volunteer apprentice: Micheala Ferguson
Four Concordia AcademyHigh School volunteer apprentices: Sarah Lovett, Esther Postier, Amara Garfield, and Ryan Harms
Six volunteers: Roberta Sheahan, Maria Rice, John Killian, Kenna Alderson, Naphtali Garfield, and Sarah Erwin
One paid helper: Spencer Hoff
Our mold maker: Dan Ochs
In total, we had 34 people working on the project over the course of 20 months,” he said.
“We are still requesting donations until the end of the year to help offset our deficit at gofund.me/95a83e95 or directly to Mary Queen of Angels Church earmarked Stations and Statues Fund,” he said.
The stained glass window of Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church.
The current First Presbyterian Church building is at 308 S. Crawford. Submitted photo.
The First Presbyterian Church is celebrating 165 years in the Fort Scott community.
“A special worship service will be held Sunday, November 17 at 10:30 a.m. at the church, with a celebration fellowship in the parlor afterward,” said Pastor Sarah Gengler.
Pastor Sarah Gengler. Submitted photo.
“Through the years, First Presbyterian has been blessed with 11 installed pastors, as well as two installed associate pastors,” Gengler said.
The current congregation members were deeply committed to continuing worship and ministry outreach while searching for a new pastor recently, according to information provided by Gengler. Twenty-three different members volunteered at least once, to preach a sermon during their Sunday morning worship. On February 1, 2024, the congregation gratefully welcomed their newest pastor, Rev. Sarah Gengler. Rev. Gengler has been in ministry for 10 years and moved here from Minnesota.
Currently, there are 134 members and worship service is 10:30 a.m. on Sunday mornings.
Pastor Gengler provided some of the outreaches of the church:
“First Presbyterian Church volunteers to cook and serve a meal for the Feeding Families Program at the Methodist church on the 4th Wednesday of every month.
There are two different adult Faith Formation classes beginning at 9:15 and 9:30 a.m. As well as “Waffles and Jesus” in the Zimmerman Hall dining room at 9:15 a.m., where a hot breakfast is prepared by church volunteers, and then class is held for children grades Kindergarten through 9th.
“The church co-hosts Vacation Bible School each summer with First United Methodist Church
“We hold a friendly competition between us and First United Methodist Church each year to see who can raise the most pounds of food for the Beacon Food Pantry.
“The Presbyterian Women’s organization directs a long-ago gift known as the Hack Memorial Fund, which helps those with the greatest need in Fort Scott. Included in the scope of this ministry are assistance with utilities, rent, and some medical and dental needs, all requests are received and recommended through the Beacon, Bourbon County’s food pantry.”
“The church remains active in the community,” she said. “Members are hosting two special showings of The Greatest Christmas Pageant Ever at Fort Scott Cinema. Saturday at 1 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tell them First Presbyterian sent you!”
“The church will be holding a community-wide service of remembrance called Blue Christmas on Sunday, Dec. 8,” she said. “People are invited to join us at 2 p.m. for a time devoted to remembering those we love, and whose loss is felt more deeply this time of year.”
History of the church, provided by Pastor Gengler:
In the summer of 1859, a church-planting Presbyterian missionary, the Reverend Alexander Taylor Rankin of Buffalo, New York, was sent to Kansas by the Presbyterian General Assembly, according to information provided by Gengler. He officially organized the First Presbyterian Church on November 17th, 1859, with three members. In the first few years after its inception members met in each other’s homes for worship. Reverend George C. Irvin became the first installed pastor in 1865. The foundation for the first church was laid in 1864, where the present-day Cheney-Witt Carriage House now stands at the southeast corner of Third and Main. The church building was completed in 1865.
The first building of the First Presbyterian Church was at Third and Main Street. Submitted photo.
In 1888 the second church was constructed on the current property at 308 S. Crawford St., to accommodate the growing congregation.
By early 1920’s the congregation again recognized that it needed more space. The 1888 building was razed and the third church was built, laying its corner stone in 1924. The 100-year-old building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2008.
The second building of the First Presbyterian Church was located at the current site, 308 S. Crawford. Submitted photo.
The First Presbyterian Church has participated in many different ministries over the years, including youth groups, sewing groups, Presbyterian Women, the Methodists’ Feeding Families program, the Beacon Food Pantry, Sunday Serve events where congregation members completed service projects in the community, and Vacation Bible School, according to information provided by Gengler.
Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church is once again hosting a non-denominational event to help those grieving the loss of a loved one this holiday season.
The Surviving the Holidays Grief Share event is Tuesday, December 3 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the church at 705 S. Holbrook St.
The architect’s rendition of the Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church is nearing rebuild completion following a devastating fire two years ago. Submitted graphic.
A book is provided, as well as lunch for each one attending. There is no cost.
Laura Meeks is the facilitator.
“What I have experienced through GriefShare is the comfort of a journey with others,” she said. “The root meaning of comfort is to call alongside, to speak tenderly, to speak to the heart, to give encouragement. This program is a blessing to us.”
“The purpose of attending the December 5, two-hour Surviving the Holidays is to connect with a small group of others who are grieving the loss of a loved one, who may be facing this holiday season feeling hurt and sad,” Meeks said. “They face social gatherings, holiday cheer, and traditions enjoyed with their loved ones. This loss may be recent or years ago, but the holiday season is a painful reminder that a loved one is missing.”
“GriefShare Surviving the Holidays is a professionally developed path to help provide a comforting place with others who are also on this path of grieving during Thanksgiving and Christmas,” she said. “This nationally recognized program contains three components including a 35-minute video, small group discussion, and a personal reflection guided through a workbook.”
GriefShare is facilitated by area leaders who follow structured training to help bring reassurance, practical advice from national professionals, and guidance to find a way forward through the season. Information about content is easily found through griefshare.org
Past participants in GriefShare ‘s 13 sessions are also encouraged to attend this focused session.
“My involvement began two years ago when I was encouraged to receive training by Father Yancey Burgess who had GriefShare at his former Kansas parish,” Meeks said. “His suggestion was to host a non-denominational group. Since then, our community has hosted GriefShare with two of the offerings being held at Mary Queen of Angels. One last year was a 13-week session on Tuesday mornings and the other session is being held now as a 13-week program over this year meeting the last Monday of each month.”
“The one evening each month Grief Share is going well now with twelve participants,” she said.
On January 7, 2025, the third 13-week session at Mary Queen of Angels will be held each Tuesday morning from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Tanya Glessner, Fort Scott, is a Christian author who loves sharing her experience of overcoming addiction, abuse, incarceration, and loss through God’s grace.
Her newest book, Unyielding Faith: Drive Out The Enemy With Divine Power was just released on Amazon.com.
Other books by Glessner, in order of release date:
The Light You Bring September 2023, Stand Up Eight January 2024,
Prayer Journal May 2024, and New Mercies Every Morning July 2024.
Of the newest book:
The words we speak reflect our hearts and wield immense power—to build up or tear down. They have a far-reaching impact that can alter the course of many lives. Therefore, we must intentionally align our words with God’s word, training ourselves to use language that brings victory and life. according to a press release from Glessner.
In Unyielding Faith: Drive Out the Enemy with Divine Power there are prayers, proclamations, scriptures, and more that will help break every curse that has come against you and those you care about such as:
*Prayer For Blessings And Breakthroughs
*Prayer For Family
*Prayer Against Satanic Forces
*Prayer To Release Guilt
*Prayer Against Fear
*Prayer For Guidance
*Proclamations
*And more…
God’s divine presence lives within His followers. Exercise the authority He has granted to overcome obstacles, reclaim control of our lives, and declare words of life that drive out the enemy.
The First Southern Baptist Church, 1818 S. Main. The Family Life Center is on the right.
First Southern Baptist Church at 1818 S. Main is celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2024.
“It was chartered in 1963,” said current pastor, Joel Crippen.
The church currently has nursing home ministries, men’s and women’s fellowships, and they support missionaries through the Southern Baptist Convention Mission Board, he said.
The church’s theme for its anniversary is “Standing on the Word of God, Past, Present, Future.”
The public is invited to join the celebration events that start on Friday, Oct. 25 from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. with a traveling museum, and 6:45 p.m. is the Family Life Center Dedication. The museum will continue Oct. 25-27 with daily hours.
On Saturday the Tucker Family Band will perform at 7 p.m.
On Sunday, the Missourians Gospel Group will perform at 6 p.m.
There will be free-will offerings for all concerts and the Bible Museum.
Church service times are Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. and Morning worship at 10:50 a.m. They average about 80 people in attendance the pastor said.
Evening services each week are at 6 p.m. on Wednesdays with Youth AWANA at 6:30 p.m.
Pastor Crippen said the mission of the church is to “spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”
Traveling Bible Museum
Beginning on Friday, Oct. 25, a traveling museum on the Bible will be on exhibit at the church, at 1818 S. Main in the Family Life Center.
Ancient artifacts and a working replica of the press that printed the first Bible will be on display.
There will be tours/viewing and teaching classes with exhibit presentations daily at 1:30 p.m. with curator John Sliffe.
For more information contact the church at 620.223.2986
The Tucker Family Band
The Tucker Family Band. Submitted photo.
The Tucker Family Band will perform at the church on Saturday, October 26, at 7:00 p.m., 1818 S. Main.
The Tucker Family Band is comprised of Carolyn Tucker (keys and vocals) Fort Scott; daughter Mariam Tucker Self (lead vocals and saxophone) Peculiar, MO; son Aaron Tucker (drums and vocals) Asbury, MO; cousin Jessie Bergen (electric bass) Anderson, MO; and J Williams (lead guitar) Columbus, KS. Kitten Lagoon from Anderson, MO, is the sound engineer and emcee according to a press release.
As youngsters, singing and playing instruments was just a normal part of being a kid and having fun. All of the band members grew up in the church and have a passion for sharing the gospel through music. The members have been involved in worship at their own individual churches for years.
The TFB’s repertoire includes the beloved gospel music of Elvis Presley plus other Christian recording artists. Some of the featured songs are: I Believe, Up Above My Head, Where Could I Go, Peace in the Valley, Bosom of Abraham, Can‘t Nobody Do Me Like Jesus, and many more. No matter what your musical preferences are, there will be something for everyone.
There is no admission fee for the one-hour concert. A free-will offering will be received.
The Missourians
The Missourians will perform at 6 on Sunday, October 27 at the church.
What started as a male trio in the 1980s took on that traditional four-part harmony sound several years later and the group hasn’t looked back, according to their website. This vocal group is comfortable performing on concert stages before thousands, as well as in rural churches. The group’s versatility makes them a favorite among young audiences and older music lovers alike. Their ability to adapt to any setting, without compromising the message they present, makes them a favorite wherever their music is shared.
Over the past 30+ years, the group has recorded a total of 19 albums and 2 videos with their latest project “Jesus Saves”. The recording, like each performance, is a testament to the versatility of the quartet, as it encompasses a mix of both traditional hymns and Southern Gospel classics, without distracting from the Gospel message.
The Missourians have shared the stage with such greats as Gold City, Brian Free & Assurance, Ivan Parker, Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers, and many others.
The Missourians continue to reach new plateaus, as they consistently strive for perfection in their musical presentation of the Gospel message. “We believe we are constantly reaching new levels, lyrically, vocally, and spiritually. We believe that’s what God expects of us, and our greatest desire is to please Him in all we do,” according to their website
Join First United Methodist Church as they host Ernie Couch and Revival!
Saturday October 26th @ 6pm
First United Methodist, 301 S. National St., will host Ernie Couch and Revival.
The concert is a freewill offering Gospel Concert.
“From its inception, EC&R has produced high energy, emotionally colorful music reflective of the diverse musical heritage that has made their Music City home of Nashville internationally famous. The group’s unique blend of traditional, country, and contemporary gospel music speaks to people of all ages and all walks of life.”
Also, mark your calendars and join First United Methodist for:
a FRIENDSHIP SOUP LUNCHEON – Friday, October 25th – freewill donation fundraiser to support for the mission and ministries of our church – join us from 11:30am to 1pm for potato and vegetable soups and chili, with desert!
4th Annual Trunk or Treat Thursday, Oct. 31st
5:30pm until dusk! Free! Bring the kids or grandkids by to show off their costumes!
Make sure to click here to follow their Facebook page for future events and details!
Thank you to our Chamber Champion members shown below…
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US
Teaching the History and Significance of the Bible
Come see the exhibit at First Southern Baptist Church 1818 S. Main St. on Hwy 69 in Fort Scott, Ks. In the Family Life Center.
Friday, Saturday, & Sunday October 25-27 9:00am- 6:30pm Friday and Saturday or 1:00- 6:30pm on Sunday.
View the authentic historical artifacts dating back 5000 years from the Holy land, Middle East, and Asia Minor. (Ancient Torahs, Bibles, manuscripts, and pottery, plus a working replica of the Gutenberg press.)
Teaching classes Friday and Saturday at 10:00am and 5:30pm, also at 1:00pm on Sunday. Exhibit presentation with curator John Sliffe daily at 1:30pm.
Concluding Sunday night with a concert by the Missourians at 6:00pm.
The Lion of Judah is depicted in the years Rinehart Christian Church corn maize, taken from the church’s Facebook page.
Rinehart Christian Church Annual Corn Maze is part of a FREE fall festival event for the public.
The surrounding community is invited to come out for an afternoon of fall fun and fellowship on three Saturdays: October 5, October 12 and October 19 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. to the church located at 9443 S. 900 Rd. Richards, MO 64778, about 14 miles from Fort Scott.
Family activities include a petting zoo on October 5, horse rides on October 12, and hatchet throwing on October 19.
Besides the corn maze, activities include hay rides, corn pits, pumpkin painting, fire pits, lawn games, duck races, concessions, photo booths, cow train, grain wagon basketball hoops, and inflatables.
“The reason for the corn maze is to give area people a fun day for the family and to let them know Rinehart is a church that cares about them,” said Pastor Kevin Moyer.
“This is the 5th year for us to have the maze,” he said. ” It grows each year in numbers, and people come and stay for hours. It really is a family event, and people can’t get over the fact that it’s free. Even the lunch is free! It’s our gift to the community. Our people volunteer their time for three Saturdays in October.”
‘If you look at the maze from high above you’ll see the full design, the Lion of Judah,” he said.
The Lion of Judah is mentioned in the scripture Revelation 5:5.
Rinehart Christian Church’s mission is to love God, live like Jesus, and lift others up, he said.
