Lamar Hunt, Jr. highlights the value of catholic education at Prayer Breakfast

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) --  The St. Joseph Catholic Academy hosted its annual Prayer Breakfast and Fundraiser at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church Wednesday morning.

The event aims to bring together community members, supporters of Catholic education and local leaders for a morning of prayer, fellowship, and conversation.

The event opened with a blessing of the food by Bishop James V. Johnston, Jr., followed by remarks from SJCA President Natalie Newville celebrating the academy’s achievements and activities over the past year.

Attendees heard from Lamar Hunt, Jr., a businessman, member of the founding family of the Kansas City Chiefs and owner of the Kansas City Mavericks.

Hunt attended St. Michael the Archangel Catholic High School and is passionate about supporting Catholic education, something he said has integrity.

"It talks about the mind, the body, the will and the soul. It brings all those into a person's life. That they can integrate their lives so they can find their true mission," he said. "Obviously, our goal is to go to heaven, of course, but we have to live this life, and it's a great adventure. That's one of the things that is brought to our attention in a catholic education."

Hunt said he hopes attendees were influenced by his talk to support the St. Joseph Catholic Academy.

"It's worth it. These schools have been here for many, many years. They make an impact on the community," he said. "There's a steadiness it gives kids a chance to find their true calling. A call that's put on their lives...It also strengthens families. It brings families together. Part of faith is very simply loving God, but loving our neighbor, and being a service to others."

The event concluded with a prayer led by Father Steve Hansen.