About Michael
Profession: Actively Retired
Parish: Church of the Nativity, St. Michael the Archangel
Michael Shirley is an actively retired professional and dedicated Catholic community leader based in Leawood, Kansas. He grew up in Roeland Park, Kansas, and is the proud father of two young adult children.
A lifelong advocate for Catholic initiatives, Michael has been meaningfully involved with the Catholic Education Foundation and previously served as a board member for the Catholic Charities of Kansas City in Kansas Foundation. His commitment to faith-based service extends across the Kansas City metro, where he is a frequent speaker on topics such as meaningful retirement, evangelization, and living an inspired Catholic life.
Michael also played a key role in the return of Catholic radio to the Kansas City area, contributing over 12 years of involvement in that effort. Deeply rooted in parish life, he is a member of Church of the Nativity and St. Michael the Archangel, where he founded the parish Wine Ministry—earning him the nickname “the Catholic wine guy.”
Through his leadership and engagement, Michael continues to make a lasting impact across the Catholic community in Kansas City.
What led you to create CBN?
“My faith gave me the connection with the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit was responsible for the inspiration of CBN. I didn’t find any evidence in the greater metro that there was anything like CBN existing at the time. The Holy Spirit told me to build it well and build it to last beyond a lifetime. This was truly inspired by the Holy Spirit.”
