March 8–14, 2026
The Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth joined communities around the world in celebrating Catholic Sisters Week, March 8–14, a time to recognize the spirituality, service, and witness of women religious.
Throughout the week, the SCL Community shared daily reflections on social media, highlighting the many dimensions of religious life such as community, courage, service, and prayer, while inviting others to consider what it means to live #LikeACatholicSister.
On campus, several special moments brought Sisters, employees, and friends together in celebration and gratitude. The week began with a special Mass, during which former students of the Sisters led the music and readings, creating a meaningful connection across generations.
Some Sisters also enjoyed lighter moments of celebration, including a spirited game of Catholic Sisters Week Bingo and an ice cream social that brought Sisters and employees together in fellowship.
Staff members expressed their appreciation by signing gratitude posters and offering messages of thanks and encouragement to the Sisters for their lives of prayer, ministry, and service.
During the same week, Sister Vickie Perkins, SCL (below), was honored by the Leavenworth–Lansing Chamber of Commerce as the 2026 H. Dean Hamon Humanitarian of the Year. While the recognition was not connected to Catholic Sisters Week, its timing offered another meaningful opportunity to celebrate the impact of the Sisters’ commitment to serving others.
The week also coincided with an ongoing social media campaign from Cristo Rey Kansas City High School, a school sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth. As part of the school’s “I ❤ CRKC” campaign, several Sisters shared why the Cristo Rey mission matters to them.
“I ❤ CRKC because our students have what they need to proceed into a fruitful future, and students have everything they need when they need help,” said Sister Mary Rachel Flynn, SCL.
Sister Mary Pat Johnson, SCL, reflected, “I am so grateful that I was able to have a role in making it possible for CRKC students to receive an excellent education that ensured a promising future.”
Sister Eileen Haynes, SCL, highlighted the school’s mission, saying, “Students experience professional life as they discern their futures and discover their gifts. It is a school like no other, and it has the charism of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth.”
“CRKC provides our students with a blend of faith, life experience, and education,” added Sister Vicki Lichtenauer, SCL. “They are having life experiences now, so when they graduate, they are ready for whatever comes their way.”
Sister Melissa Camardo adds, “Empowering students to become their best selves, to learn and grow, and to create positive change in the world inspires me and gives me hope for the future of our city and our country.”
As Catholic Sisters Week came to a close, the SCL Community reflected with gratitude for the witness of women religious and the many ways their lives continue to inspire hope, compassion, and faith.
