A Faith Deepened: Mary Frances Horton’s Journey at Santa Marta

For Mary Frances Horton, faith has always been an important part of life. But since moving to Santa Marta, it has taken on new depth, meaning, and purpose.

Alongside her husband, Mike, Mary Frances embraced villa living at Santa Marta, a Johnson County senior living community sponsored by the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.

What she found here was more than a beautiful home — it was a community rich in connection, compassion, and shared values.

She quickly immersed herself in community life, from resident events and even a golf tournament to serving as Vice Chair of the Resident Council. Yet it is through her quiet acts of spiritual service that she has experienced the most profound transformation.

A Calling to Serve

As a Catholic and longtime Communion Minister — even before moving to Santa Marta — Mary Frances considers it a true privilege to bring the Body of Christ to residents who live in Health Care.

Each visit is more than a ritual. It is a moment of presence, comfort, and prayer.

“I was a Communion Minister before moving here,” she shared. “I consider it to be a privilege to bring the Body of Christ to residents who live in Health Care.”

She serves in Rehab and Skilled Nursing one day per week, while other resident volunteers bring Communion to residents in Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Skilled Nursing throughout the week. At times, she has also sat with residents who live in Memory Care to watch and participate in Mass on the in-house TV, offering Communion during that portion of the service.

Together, about 12 resident Communion Ministers help ensure that residents who live in the Health Care wing — many of whom deeply value receiving the Eucharist — have regular opportunities to do so.

Sacred Moments of Connection

“Residents who live in Health Care are so happy to see us and eager to receive Communion,” she said. “As I hold their hand after reception of the host, I feel a close connection with them and the Holy Spirit as I ask for Christ to heal their body and soul. I believe in healing prayer, and what better time to share it than after reception of Communion of Jesus’ Body. They yearn for this healing prayer.”

“It’s hard to describe,” she added. “But when I pray with them, I truly feel the presence of the Holy Spirit.”

What began as service has become a source of personal spiritual growth. In these quiet, sacred moments, her own relationship with God continues to grow.

A Community United in Faith

That spirit of faith is felt throughout Santa Marta.

Residents can attend daily Mass, weekly Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, and regular opportunities to pray the rosary. Two retired ministers call Santa Marta home, and Christian services are offered weekly by ministers from other faith communities, ensuring residents of all denominations have opportunities to worship.

The community reflects a beautiful blend of Catholics and other Christian denominations — united by shared values, mutual respect, and a strong connection to faith.

If she could describe Santa Marta in one word?

“Inclusive,” she said. “Friendly. Christian. Active. Fun.”

For Mary Frances and Mike, the decision to move to Santa Marta has brought peace and a deep sense of gratitude

“We give thanks daily that we made the decision to live the rest of our lives at Santa Marta with so many wonderful, thoughtful, caring, fun friends,” she said. “We know we will always be cared for, no matter what life brings our way, with the support of our Catholic community.”

Faith Lived Daily

For Mary Frances, Santa Marta is more than a place to live. It is a place where faith is lived out daily, where prayer becomes connection, and where community extends beyond friendship into shared purpose.

In serving others, she has discovered her own faith has never felt stronger.

Learn More About Santa Marta

Santa Marta is a vibrant Life Plan Community in Johnson County, Kansas, offering independent living and a range of senior care options. If you’re exploring senior living in Johnson County and want to be part of a faith-filled community, we would love to connect with you.

Whether you’re just beginning your research or ready to take the next step, our team is here to answer questions, schedule a personal visit, or simply have a conversation. To learn more about our lifestyle and all the benefits of our Life Plan Community,  contact one of our senior living sales counselors today.