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History
 In the early 1970s, Archbishop Ignatius Strecker envisioned having a house of prayer for the Archdiocese of Kansas City, Kansas, that would be founded on the Scripture passages "Be still and know that I am God" (Psalm 46: 11) and "My house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples" (Isaiah 56: 7). At about this time, Archbishop Strecker invited Archdiocesan priest Fr. Edward Hays to go on a pilgrimage to various places of prayer around the world and then return and establish a house of prayer for the Archdiocese.
 In 1971, Fr. John Stitz found 120 acres of land for sale in Easton, Kansas, and the Archdiocese purchased it to be the site of the House of Prayer. The only building on the property was a three-sided tin horse barn. Fr. Hays moved onto the property in February of 1972, and the first volunteer staff members arrived later in May.
Soon the barn was transformed into a living space with a dining room, kitchen, library, office, and bathrooms; a chapel was built on the east side of the barn;  and simple hermitages with electricity but no plumbing were constructed for staff members. In addition, much landscaping was done with trees, rocks, and water.
Although the primary ministry of the House of Prayer is to pray for the needs of the Archdiocese and the world, a ministry to guests arose because many people asked if they could come to Shantivanam to join the staff in prayer and have some time for solitude and reflection. In addition, a monthly newsletter, The Forest Letter, was begun as a way to provide spiritual sustenance to donors and former guests. The Forest Letter continues to be published bimonthly and currently is mailed to more than 3200 people.
 In 1983 a work wing and guest wing were built. Around this time, some hermitages were expanded to include plumbing for staff members and guests.
In 1995, Fr. Ed stepped down as director, and he was succeeded by Precious Blood priest Fr. Joe Nassal. During Fr. Joe's tenure, several members of his Precious Blood Community joined the staff. In addition, Shantivanam's 25th anniversary was celebrated with Archbishop James Kelleher presiding at a large outdoor mass, followed by a reception. More than 500 people attended this celebration.
Fr. Joe Nassal left Shantivanam in 1998 to resume his mission work. Jennifer Sullivan, who had been on staff since 1977, then became Director. Archdiocesan priest Fr. Phil Winkelbauer was sacramental minister for one year, and Archdiocesan priests Fr. Dick Wempe and Fr. George Seuferling and former director Fr. Joe Nassal now share the sacramental ministry at Shantivanam.
As Shantivanam enters its 38th year, we remain committed to providing a sacred space of peace and prayer for all.
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