An Article from Resurrection Parish on the Vocation Rally
Rally 2026
The Wichita Diocese held four 2026 Vocation Day Rallies for sixth grade students during March. Over 850 students from 40 Catholic Schools as well as homeschool and PSR schools attended these events. Fourteen priests, seven nuns, one postulate, two missionaries, along with numerous teachers and volunteers throughout the diocese coordinated to make these worthwhile experiences for those attending. Students heard presentations about married, single, religious, and priestly callings. Additionally, music, games, and over 2300 pieces of pizza helped cap off these faith-filled sessions. These events were sponsored by Wichita Diocese Serra Clubs.
Welcome
Jesus on Your Side! A Rally to RememberOur recent Vocations Rally was an incredible celebration of faith, community, and a whole lot of pizza! With over 670 students joining us across two days, the energy was electric.
Laughs, Games, and Handstands
The energy stayed high all day thanks to our incredible presenters:
- Father Chad Arnold: He literally turned the room upside down with his signature handstand, a favorite moment for the students.
- Father Garett showed off his musical range by performing a Taylor Swift cover—with a clever vocational twist!
- Catholic Calisthenics: Father Labenz had students racing against a stopwatch to act out the Mass as fast as possible.
- Cooper Ray: Our featured Catholic performer injected the day with laughs and interactive games, all while sharing the beautiful joys of married life.
Stories of GraceWe were moved by the powerful journeys shared by our speakers:
- Sister Norma shared a "fiery" story that earned her the nickname "quite a pistol. by Sister Therese Wetta."
- Sister Therese Wetta spoke about the courage it took to leave a relationship behind to follow her true calling.
- The IHM Sisters (Sr. Mary Lucia, Sr. Benedicta Marie, and Sr. Mary Karol) gave us a glimpse into a "day in the life," sharing stories of overcoming fear and finding faith in Catholic Church
A Mass Like No Other
The absolute "best part ever" was the closing Holy Mass. Bishop Kemme graciously rearranged his entire day just to celebrate with us, and the impact was profound.This wasn't just any Mass—it was a vibrant, living celebration. The students sang with all their hearts and responded with such fervor that the atmosphere was unlike anything we’ve seen at a Vocations Rally before. When it ended, the students didn't just walk out; they skipped out of the gym!
The Bishop’s "Great Escape" (That Wasn't)
Because of the Bishop's tight schedule, we had planned for a quick exit with no time for photos. The students had other ideas! As he processed out, kids were waving and eventually literally ran to catch him.Instead of heading for the door, Bishop Kemme—all smiles—stayed until every single student surrounding him got their coveted photo. Seeing his joy mirrored in the faces of the children was the perfect ending to an incredible day.
A Massive Thank You to Our Village
This day would simply not be possible without the hearts and hands of nearly 60 volunteers. Whether you were a registration greeter, a line-leader, or a tech specialist, you were the backbone of this success.A special shout-out to:
- The Pizza Platers: Phyllis and her team served a staggering 220 pizzas to keep everyone fueled!
- The Hospitality Crew: Thank you for the delicious snack spread in the lounge that kept our leaders going.
- The Behind-the-Scenes Heroes: To the dynamic MCs, mass helpers, and everyone who offered prayers—your efforts invited the Holy Spirit to guide and protect us all.
Let's Hear it for The Team! Kathy Mikols - our joyful leader along with Steve Cless, Carolyn Gerstenkorn, Melissa Grelinger, Amy James, Phyllis Kuckelman, Linda Lauer, Dan Leiker, Pam Tokerud and Mike Wescott. If you'd like to be a part of this wonderful team, please let one of us know. Our meetings will start soon for Vocations Rally 2027!