Mary Queen Stories

Sr. Danielle Victoria and Sr. Theresa Aletheia from the Sisters of the Little Way of Beauty, Truth, and Goodness join us for an inspiring conversation about their unique mission and journey in the Diocese of Lexington.Learn how these pioneers received their call, why they focus on solidarity with those wounded by the Church, and what their growing vision looks like—including a desire for a motherhouse, retreat center, and creative outreach rooted in beauty and healing. Hear how their podcast, "Descent into Light," shares hope and healing for survivors, and discover practical ways to support their work or get involved.If you want to hear more about receiving God’s love, joyful service, and building a safer Church, this episode offers encouragement and real stories of faith in action.For more about the Sisters, visit: sistersoflittleway.comSend us a message!

Liz Thompson is the chair of the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC). She discusses the council's role, the parish’s new vision statement, and the exciting goals and objectives shaping our community.Learn how the PPC advises the pastor, connects parishioners, and works together to make Mary Queen a welcoming, mission-driven parish. Liz walks us through the development process of the vision statement—“We are transformed by the Holy Spirit, united in Christ, and sent to do God’s work”—and explains how it translates into practical goals in liturgy, formation, unity, stewardship, hospitality, outreach, and communication. Hear inspiring stories about parish involvement and ways you can join in to serve and connect!Find the Ministry Directory, which contains Liz's contact info,  by CLICKING HERE or at MQHR.org under Welcome.Send us a message!

St. Joseph Helpers is a nonprofit founded in Michigan, now expanding its reach to Kentucky. Their mission? Small home repairs—think grab bars in bathrooms, railings for steps, changing light bulbs, and replacing toilets. These basic upgrades make a huge difference for seniors and others who need a safer living environment.As Marty Brown explains, the ministry is built on volunteer work, insurance coverage for both clients and helpers, and partnerships with groups like the Lexington Senior Center and A Caring Place. The process is streamlined for safety and transparency: volunteers are background-checked, jobs are managed through their website, and clients know exactly who is coming to help.How You Can Get InvolvedWhether you’re handy, eager to help, or know someone in need, St. Joseph Helpers wants to hear from you! Head to sjhelpers.org, or call 1-800-303-5075. If you prefer talking directly, Marty is happy to answer questions—reach him at [email protected] or 859-433-3103.Donations are always welcome and vital to keeping this ministry thriving. You can contribute online or through freewill offerings after services are completed.Send us a message!

What if the thing you’ve been chasing in church—reverence, belonging, and the nearness of Jesus—was waiting just around a corner you never planned to turn? That’s the tension Tori Reimschisel, Mary Queen High School Youth Minister,  names as she traces her path from a Bible‑saturated Protestant childhood and youth ministry volunteering to a surprise call toward Catholic life and a vocation serving teens.If you’ve felt disenchanted yet still love Jesus, or if you serve young people and want a path beyond programs and hype, this conversation offers both a map and courage. Listen for practical ways to foster belonging, integrate Scripture with sacrament, and cultivate the kind of mentorship that endures.If this story resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend who’s discerning, and leave a review so others can find these conversations.Send us a message!

Kabby Akers, Father Miguel, and Greg Williams share their experiences with BUILD (Building a United Interfaith Lexington through Direct Action). The conversation explores BUILD's intentionally diverse network of congregations, their focus on listening to community needs—especially around elder care, housing, and transportation—and their process of organizing to find real solutions through actions like the annual Nehemiah Action event. The guests emphasize that working for justice is a core part of Christian faith and share impactful stories of how BUILD has driven positive changes, such as the creation of affordable housing and mental health programs. Listeners are encouraged to participate in upcoming events and become part of this community-driven mission for justice.Send us a message!

Have you ever wondered about the hidden struggles of homeless children in our community? It's a heartbreaking reality that often goes unnoticed, but there's hope on the horizon. In this episode of Mary Queen Stories, we're shining a light on an incredible initiative that's making a real difference in the lives of these vulnerable kids.Join Jennifer Longworth as she sits down with Lee McGrath, a passionate Mary Queen parishioner and member of the Social Concerns Committee. They'll explore the Give Kids a Home program, a community-wide effort supported by our parish to provide safe, temporary housing for homeless children and their families.Why This MattersLee shares eye-opening insights into how homelessness impacts children's health, education, and overall well-being. You'll learn about:• The surprising number of affected children in Fayette County• How unstable living situations disrupt learning and development• The critical importance of a safe, clean place to sleep each nightHow You Can HelpDiscover simple yet powerful ways to get involved and make a tangible difference:• Financial support options (even small amounts add up!)SECOND COLLECTION COMING IN AUGUST• The power of prayer for families in need• Spreading awareness in our communityA Call to ActionAs followers of Christ, we're called to serve the most vulnerable among us. Lee reminds us of Jesus' powerful words in Matthew 25 and how this initiative aligns perfectly with our parish mission.Listen in to be inspired and learn how you can be part of this vital effort to give kids the stability they desperately need. Together, we can make a lasting impact on young lives in our community.Send us a message!

Our episode features a heartfelt interview with Father Miguel, led by parishioner Carl Nathe. Father Miguel shares his inspiring journey into priesthood and his experience as the pastor of Mary Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish. He speaks with passion about his hopes and visions for our thriving community, emphasizing the power of generosity and faith.🙏 The Give 10 Program: Introduced by Father Miguel, this initiative encourages us all to perform "10 Acts of Love" and devote "10 Seconds of Surrender" each day, coupled with the invitation to consider contributing an additional $10 to the parish weekly or monthly. These small gestures are designed to transform lives and support our parish in its mission to grow and serve.🏢 Capital Campaign Success: Thanks to the incredible response from our parish with nearly 800 pledges, we are on track to eliminate our long-term debt and enhance our parish facilities. Father Miguel expresses gratitude for this overwhelming support and invites us to continue our journey together, ensuring that Offertory giving keeps up with our needs and ambitions.✝️ Community Outreach and Education: Our parish is a beacon of hope and learning. Father Miguel highlights our growing school and various ministries that foster spiritual growth among young families and individuals. He also shares the success story of the Little Mountain School in Guatemala, a reflection of our parish’s spirit of global generosity and outreach.We invite you to listen to the full episode for deeper insights and inspiration from our cherished parish leaders. As we embark on this path of faith and service together, we thank you for your continued support and commitment to Mary Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish.P.S. We encourage you to visit our website for more information and ways to get involved: mqhr.orgSend us a message!

Chrissy Heren and David Agtarap, representatives of the young adult ministry at Mary Queen, are the featured guests for this episode. What's Happening in Young Adult Ministry?The young adults at Mary Queen are actively engaged in nurturing their spiritual growth and building a supportive community. Here's a glimpse of current activities:Bible Study and Adoration: Every Tuesday evening, they gather at the Lighthouse from 6:30 to 7:30 PM for Bible study. Following that, there is Adoration from 7:30 to 8:30 PM in the church. It's a perfect mid-week spiritual recharge!Book Club: Join MQ YA every fourth Thursday of the month for our book club. They recently finished "The Fulfillment of All Desire" by Ralph Martin and are starting a new book, "Men, Women and the Mystery of Love" by Edward Sri.Fellowship Events: Social gatherings include bonfires, trivia nights, board games, and bowling nights. These events foster meaningful connections among young adults from different walks of life.Get Involved:Are you or someone you know interested in joining our vibrant community? Feel free to drop by the Lighthouse on Tuesday nights or email us at [email protected]. You will be welcomed with open arms, no matter where you are on your spiritual journey.Send us a message!

Brennan and Benny Towles join Jennifer for this episode to discuss the importance of young adult ministry, personal growth, and the power of community in faith development. Here are three key takeaways:Community Building: Brennan and Benny emphasize the importance of having a strong community. Being a part of a group helps share joys and challenges and can make individuals feel seen, supported, and valued in their faith journey.Inclusion and Connection: Benny's approach to being inclusive teaches us that opening our circles to diverse individuals can lead to unexpected friendships and personal enrichment. This inclusivity extends beyond large events to personalized interactions, such as inviting someone for coffee or dinner.Serve and Grow Together: Both guests highlight how their involvement in young adult ministry and their photography business have deepened their faith. They emphasize how serving others joyfully can bring personal growth, joy, and a sense of purpose.Catch the full episode for more insights on cultivating a vibrant young adult community and faith-driven entrepreneurship. Send us a message!

James Nelson shares his heartfelt journey from a life filled with materialism and addiction to finding peace and transformation through the Catholic faith. James recounts his initial skepticism and atheism, his supernatural encounters with malevolent forces, and how a Christmas Midnight Mass catalyzed his spiritual awakening. He details his inquiry & OCIA process into Catholicism, the support he received from the Mary Queen community, and the significance of meaningful worship and joyful service. Emphasizing the importance of humility, gratefulness, and the sustaining power of Jesus, James discusses how his newfound faith has led to profound personal changes and offers encouragement for others seeking a spiritual path.Send us a message!

The AnnunciationThe VisitationThe Birth of JesusThe PresentationThe Finding of the Child JesusSend us a message!

The ResurrectionThe AscensionThe Descent of the Holy SpiritThe Assumption of MaryThe Coronation of the Blessed MotherSend us a message!

The AnnunciationThe VisitationThe Birth of Jesus [The Nativity] The Presentation of Jesus in the TempleFinding Jesus in the Temple Send us a message!

Pray the Sorrowful Mysteries with us:The Agony in the GardenThe Scourging at the PillarThe Crowning with ThornsThe Carrying of the CrossThe Crucifixion and Death Send us a message!

Recorded at the Mary Queen School Full School Rosary on September 26, 2024The First Luminous Mystery: The Baptism of Jesus in the River JordanThe Second Luminous Mystery: The Wedding Feast at CanaThe Third Luminous Mystery: The Proclamation of the KingdomThe Fourth Luminous Mystery: The TransfigurationThe Fifth Luminous Mystery: The Institution of the EucharistSend us a message!

Pray the Glorious Mysteries with us.The Resurrection of Jesus The Ascension of Jesus into HeavenThe Descent of the Holy Spirit The Assumption Coronation of Mary Send us a message!

Pray the Sorrowful Mysteries with us:The Agony in the GardenThe Scourging at the PillarThe Crowning with ThornsThe Carrying of the CrossThe Crucifixion and Death Send us a message!

Pray the Joyful Mysteries with us as we reflect on our Parish Mission. "Receive God's Love, Proclaim the Greatness of the Lord, Serve Joyfully, & Make Missionary Disciples of Jesus Christ."The Annunciation The VisitationThe Birth of Jesus [The Nativity] The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple Finding Jesus in the TempleSend us a message!

Pray the Glorious Mysteries with us as we reflect on our Parish Mission. "Receive God's Love, Proclaim the Greatness of the Lord, Serve Joyfully, & Make Missionary Disciples of Jesus Christ."The Glorious Mysteries:The Resurrection of Jesus The Ascension of Jesus into HeavenThe Descent of the Holy Spirit The Assumption Coronation of Mary Send us a message!

In this episode, Jennifer Longworth talks with Martha Casher, one of our incredible volunteers, who shares her inspiring journey of service and community involvement.🎧 Listen in as we explore Martha's experiences, from growing up in a church-centric family to making significant contributions at Mary Queen.Here are three key takeaways from our conversation with Martha:Finding Your Niche in Service: Martha's unique background in utility tracking has allowed her to make significant contributions to Mary Queen’s energy efficiency efforts. Remember, there's always a place for your skills in serving the community.Building Community Through Involvement: Martha shares how volunteering has enriched her life and built lasting relationships. Whether it’s helping with office tasks, maintaining grounds, or joining committees, getting involved can make your church experience more fulfilling.Serving Joyfully: For Martha, serving joyfully is the key to lasting and meaningful involvement. Choose activities that bring you joy and fulfillment, and they will not feel like obligations but rather rewarding experiences.Catch the full episode for more insights and inspiration! 🎙️✨Send us a message!

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!Send us a message!

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.Send us a message!

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/Send us a message!

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/gracemarriageSend us a message!

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 [email protected] more about Mary Queen Parish at MQHR.orgDo you have a story to share? Fill out our form at mqhr.org/podcastSend us a message!

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 [email protected] more about Mary Queen Parish at MQHR.orgDo you have a story to share? Fill out our form at mqhr.org/podcastSend us a message!

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 [email protected] more about Mary Queen Parish at MQHR.orgDo you have a story to share? Fill out our form at mqhr.org/podcastSend us a message!