Santa Marta blessed by archbishop

OLATHE — For many residents of Santa Marta here, moving to the retirement community is literally a blessing. That’s because one of the most appreciated amenities at Santa Marta is its chapel.
The archdiocesan-sponsored venture features a Catholic chapel that seats 100 and an assigned chaplain, Msgr. Ray Burger. Father Robert Pflumm also celebrates Mass for the residents.
The schedule, which includes a 4 p.m. daily Mass and a 10 a.m. Sunday Mass, are for residents only.
“The fact that we have daily Mass and a priest is wonderful,” said Jo Ann Mulligan, a former Curé of Ars, Leawood, parishioner. “It’s the best way to spend the last years of your life.”
“In so many [retirement homes], even though they may be church-sponsored, the chapel is just kind of ‘a space,’” she continued. “Here, it’s a place of spirituality.”
On May 5, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann was at the Santa Marta chapel to preside at a blessing of the entire community. He was joined by Msgr. Tom Tank and Msgr. Gary Applegate, who served as master of ceremonies. Archbishop Emeritus James P. Keleher, Abbot Barnabas Senecal, OSB, and several priests of the archdiocese were also present.
In his homily, Archbishop Naumann praised Archbishop Keleher, Msgr. Tank, members of the Santa Marta task force and board, and all those who helped take the community from vision to reality.