THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 47, NO. 19 | JANUARY 9, 2026
LEAVEN FILE PHOTO BY MOIRA CULLINGS
Small faith-sharing groups like these at the Mercy and Justice Summit at Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kansas, in 2024 will be at the heart of “A Renewal from the Heartland,” the effort of Archbishop Shawn McKnight to see each parish become a more intentional center of charity and sanctuary of mercy.
Laypeople and clergy alike will soon start meeting to together shape the future of our local church. Can we count you in? If so, join us this Lent for the first phase of
A RENEWAL FROM THE HEARTLAND
By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
K
ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Denise Mills understands what it’s like to feel invisible at church on Sundays. “I didn’t really know a lot of people in the church, even though I had been in our parish for 10 years,” said Mills, a member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood. It wasn’t until she attended a Christ Renews His Parish retreat at St. Michael that she discovered deep friendships rooted in the Catholic faith. “We had women from all ages, all generations, all different walks of life,” said Mills. The experience transformed how she views the people around her in the pews and called her to a greater involvement in parish life. She foresees a similar transformation
for Catholics throughout the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas as Archbishop Shawn McKnight and the archdiocese launch a new pastoral planning process beginning this Lent. Titled “A Renewal from the Heartland,” the process is designed to fulfill the archbishop’s desire to see each parish become a more intentional center of charity and sanctuary of mercy. Parishioner involvement is key. “The whole desired outcome is how we best serve the mission of the church,” said Father Mike Hawken, vicar general and moderator of the curia. “[It’s] all of us in communion with the Holy Father and with the bishops throughout the world,” he said, “sharing co-responsibility for making this mission that Jesus entrusted to us the best that it can be.” Mills is excited to see the impact the process can have on the local church.
LENTEN DINNER NOTICES
>> See ‘RENEWAL’ on page 10
A Renewal from the Heartland Catch Up Quick
WHO
Everyone — clergy, religious and laypeople
WHAT
A new pastoral planning process to help parishes become more intentional centers of charity and sanctuaries of mercy
DEADLINE
Feb. 13.
Feb. 3.
The Leaven will publish a list of Lenten dinners in the archdiocese on
Because of space considerations, notices are limited to around 40 words and are due
WHY
So clergy and laypeople can shape the future of their parishes and then help chart the course of the archdiocese
WHAT’S NEXT
WHEN
Starting this Lent, with small-group faithsharing called “Beatitudes from the Heartland”
WHEN
WHERE
Small groups in every parish — meeting in homes, at parishes and beyond
INCLUDE
Listening sessions, an online survey and archdiocesan gatherings will follow. But it all starts this Lent. Contact your parish to join a church on the move.
• Time of event • Date(s) of event • Address of event • Specify dine-in, curbside, delivery, etc.
SUBMIT
Please email your information to: todd.habiger@ theleaven.org.
2 LOCAL NEWS
JANUARY 9, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
ARCHBISHOP MCKNIGHT Jan. 13 Priest Personnel board meeting — chancery Jan. 15 School of Love leadership meeting — chancery Jan. 16 Mass with chancery staff — chancery chapel Interpreter gathering — St. Paul Church, Olathe Jan. 17 Profession of first vows, Sisters Poor of Jesus Christ, Mass of thanksgiving — St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood Catholic Charities Snow Ball and Mass — Overland Park Convention Center
ARCHBISHOP EMERITUS NAUMANN COURTESY PHOTO
Father Ric Halvorson, former pastor of Holy Spirit Parish in Overland Park who is now on the formation faculty of the University of Saint Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary in Illinois, had the opportunity to meet Pope Leo XIV Dec. 10 following his general audience at St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City. Father Halvorson shared with the pope that he grew up in East Dubuque, Illinois. The pope took a photo with the group of seminarians and faculty members and accepted a Mundelein Seminary baseball jersey with “Pope Leo” printed on the back. This is the fourth pope Father Halvorson has met.
Jan. 17 Profession of first vows, Sisters Poor of Jesus Christ, Mass of thanksgiving — St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood Catholic Charities Snow Ball and Mass — Overland Park Convention Center Jan. 18 Vespers and dinner with monks — St. Benedict’s Abbey, Atchison
LOCAL NEWS 3
JANUARY 9, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Archbishop Emeritus Joseph F. Naumann blesses his new home, St. Joseph House, on Dec. 30. The house is located in “Lamb Village” in Kansas City, Kansas, beside the monastery of the Little Brothers of the Lamb and one block down the hill from the Little Sisters.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Little Sister Marie-Jeanne holds a phone as Archbishop Emeritus Naumann and Archbishop Shawn McKnight talk with Cardinal Christoph Schönborn, former archbishop of Vienna and the one responsible for the Community of the Lamb, as Father Keith Chadwick, master of ceremonies, looks on.
HOME SWEET HOME
Archbishop Emeritus Naumann moves into St. Joseph House
By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
K
ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Christmas came a few days early for Archbishop Emeritus Joseph F. Naumann, and the gift he received exceeded his expectations. The archbishop moved into his new home, the St. Joseph House, on Dec. 17. “It’s perfect,” said Archbishop Naumann. “It’s more than I could hope for. The Little Brothers and Sisters thought of every detail.” St. Joseph House is located in “Lamb Village” in Kansas City, Kansas, beside the monastery of the Little Brothers of the Lamb and one block down the hill from the Little Sisters. The 1,860-square-foot home includes a living and dining room, office, kitchen, laundry room, chapel, bedroom and garage. Keene Constructs was the construction company, and Cody Moore was the project manager. Many people helped make St. Joseph House possible, including individual donors, archdiocesan parishioners, local artists and groups like the Knights of Columbus at Church of the Ascension in Overland Park. The Little Brothers crafted all the interior woodwork, including the cabinets, doors and office shelves. The detail matches their monastery. Archbishop Shawn McKnight toured the community’s monasteries and St. Joseph House on Dec. 30, where he joined Archbishop Naumann as he blessed his new home. Father Keith Chadwick, pastor of Christ the King Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, assisted in the blessing. Archbishop Naumann expressed his gratitude to Archbishop McKnight for his presence, to the people who made St. Joseph House possible, and to the Community of the Lamb for their work on the house and their impact on the
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Archbishop Emeritus Joseph F. Naumann joins the Little Brothers and Little Sisters of the Community of the Lamb outside St. Joseph House on the evening of Dec. 17, his first night in his new home. “It’s more than I could hope for,” he said. “The Little Brothers and Sisters thought of every detail.” neighborhood. “Their charism is to have a friendship with the poor,” said Archbishop Naumann, “and not necessarily to be doing direct service, but to build relationships with them. “And it’s beautiful to see how that’s happened and what an impact they’ve had — not just in this neighborhood but on our local church.” After the blessing, the archbishops shared a phone conversation with Cardinal Christoph Schönborn, former archbishop of Vienna and the one responsible for the Community of the Lamb, who expressed his delight at
Archbishop Naumann’s new home. For Archbishop Naumann, it was bittersweet leaving his former residence in Kansas City, Kansas, where he lived for nearly 22 years. “I loved that house,” he said. “I loved the chapel there particularly. I lived there longer than I lived in any other single place.” But he’s grateful to be close to the Community of the Lamb and looks forward to joining them for Mass when he’s available. “They pray the liturgy beautifully,” he said. As for retirement, Archbishop Nau-
President Most Rev. Shawn McKnight
Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799) Published weekly September through May, excepting the fifth Friday in October, Friday the week after Thanksgiving, and the two Fridays after Christmas; biweekly June through August. Address communications to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Phone: (913) 721-1570; or email at: sub@theleaven.org. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. For change of address, provide old and new address and parish. Subscriptions $25/year. Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.
Editor Rev. Mark Goldasich, stl frmark.goldasich@theleaven.org
Senior Reporter/Social Media Editor Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
mann is adjusting to the flexibility. “I’m in more control of my schedule than I’ve been for 50 years,” he said. “I’m free from a lot of decision-making and meetings. “But I get to do all the things that attracted me to the priesthood to start with, like celebrate the sacraments, be available to visit people in the hospital and spend more time with people than I could as an archbishop.” Archbishop Naumann offered The Leaven a tour of St. Joseph House. To view a video and more photos, visit us on Facebook or Instagram @theleavenkc.
Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org
Reporter John Sorce john.sorce@theleaven.org
Production/Business Manager Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org Editorial Assistant Olivia Martin-Davies olivia.martin@theleaven.org
4 LOCAL NEWS
JANUARY 9, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
Catholic performer rocks Wamego with free concert By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org
W
AMEGO — It’s not every day you win a free concert from “one of America’s most exciting Catho-
lic performers.” But that’s what happened to the youth group of St. Bernard Parish in Wamego when 11 members of the youth group and Amy Schwein, the director of religious education, participated in the 2025 National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC) held Nov. 20-22 in Indianapolis. On the second day of the conference, youth ministers were encouraged to send a text to be entered for a chance to win a free concert by Catholic performer Joe Melendrez. Schwein sent the text. But then, overcoming her usually shy nature, she managed to work her way to Melendrez’s merchandise table, where she found Melendrez himself. “I introduced myself,” said Schwein, “and said, ‘I’m anxiously awaiting my free concert.’ He said, ‘What?’ “I said, ‘I’m Amy. I’m from the small town of Wamego. I’m a youth minister, so I sent the text. And I’m anxiously awaiting your free concert.’” Melendrez then suggested the two take a picture together, after which he started asking Schwein questions about her ministry. The answers led to a surprise. “Amy, let’s just do this,” Melendrez told Schwein. “Let’s make this happen.’” Not understanding what he meant, Schwein admits her initial confusion until he clarified that he was awarding her a free concert. One of the only stipulations was that it had to be held in December due to his schedule. By Monday, Nov. 24, the deal was done. “When it’s the Holy Spirit and you’ve given your yes, you just have to hang on,” Schwein said of the whirlwind speed at which the concert was scheduled. A few weeks before the concert, Melendrez joined a phone call with St. Bernard’s youth group during which he gave the kids a mission to pray for the concert, to invite a friend and to pray for that friend. Held at Wamego High School on Dec. 30, the concert (one of two given away by Melendrez) drew youth from across
L
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JULIE ANDERSON
Catholic recording artist Joe Melendrez delivers on his promise of a free concert held Dec. 30 at Wamego High School. The concert marked only the second time he performed his latest album, “Ghost Town,” in its entirety since its completion in late December. Melendrez was joined by artists Hannah Graziadei and DJ Code who, like Melendrez, had performed at the National Catholic Youth Conference held Nov. 20-22 in Indianapolis. On Nov. 21, while at the conference, Amy Schwein, director of religious education at St. Bernard Parish in Wamego, learned of an opportunity to win a free concert from Melendrez. By Nov. 24, the concert was scheduled.
IF YOU’RE TWO YEARS OLD OR 95 YEARS OLD, I WANT YOU SCREAMING, ‘COME, HOLY SPIRIT,’ AND I WANT YOU JUMPING. JOE MELENDREZ CATHOLIC PERFORMER
the area and featured Catholic artists DJ Code and Hannah Graziadei who joined Melendrez for some of his songs but also performed some of their own. Throughout the evening, Melendrez shared in its entirety his latest album, “Ghost Town,” for only the second time since its completion in late December. The album drops later this month. “You think of a ghost town as empty,
but what about a Holy Ghost town? What about a town filled with the Holy Spirit?” Melendrez asked. “So, everywhere I go, I want to become a Holy Ghost town,” he continued. “So, Wamego, I want to become a Holy Ghost town. The people that come are marked by God. They leave wanting to share Jesus with their people.” Schwein shared her thoughts as the concert began. “We didn’t come here for a show. We came here for an encounter,” she said. “We’re getting ready to encounter Jesus Christ right here in this room. . . . We’re going to feel the Holy Spirit moving.” That might have been an understatement. From Amy Grant’s “Breath of Heaven” performed by Graziadei to the Christian hip-hop and rap styles of Melendrez’s “Chosen” and “Come Holy Spirit,” the 90-minute concert was filled with energy and what Melendrez terms “holy noise for Jesus.”
At one point, he instructed the crowd to scream for the Holy Spirit. “If you’re two years old or 95 years old, I want you screaming, ‘Come, Holy Spirit,’ and I want you jumping,” he said. A few times, DJ Code and Melendrez invited audience members onstage. Later, audience members were invited to share their own testimonies after Melendrez shared how his life changed at age 15 when he attended a retreat. Now, he tries to honor God in all he does. “If you’re brushing your teeth or if you’re making Christmas cookies, I want you to do it for the Lord. Amen?” Melendrez asked the audience between two songs. At the end, dancing, balloons and “holy noise” filled the auditorium as Melendrez offered a final word of praise for Jesus. Afterward, Melendrez signed autographs, took photos and chatted with concertgoers.
Longtime educator, Sister Mary Geraldine Yelich, SCL, dies
EAVENWORTH — Sister Lodge. A decade later, two Sisters of Mary Geraldine Yelich, 95, a Charity arrived to teach summer reSister of Charity of Leaven- ligion classes in her hometown, deepworth for 76 years, ening her connection to the died on Dec. 23, 2025. Sisters of Charity community. Born Mary Margaret Yelich Through their encourageon Oct. 23, 1930, in Red Lodge, ment, she attended Cathedral Montana, she was one of five High School in Helena, where children of Joseph and Anna she worked preparing meals Yelich. for the Sisters. Mary Margaret grew up Mary Margaret enrolled at in Red Lodge, where she atSaint Mary College in Leavtended Lincoln and Roosevelt enworth in August 1948, on grade schools. With no Cathscholarship, supported by the Sister Mary olic school in the community, Sisters in Helena. she attended public school Geraldine Yelich Inspired by the Sisters’ joy, through her sophomore year. simplicity and sense of community, Mary Margaret’s first encounters she discerned a call to serve the church with the Sisters of Charity occurred as a Sister of Charity. She entered the when she was a young child, observing novitiate on Aug. 18, 1949, taking the Sisters caring for children near Red name Sister Mary Geraldine upon
receiving her habit. Sister Mary Geraldine earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in elementary education from Saint Mary College. Her ministry reflected a lifelong commitment to Catholic education and strong, steady leadership. She began teaching at Blessed Sacrament School in Kansas City, Kansas, where she served from 1951 to 1959, and later taught and served as principal in schools throughout Colorado, Kansas and Missouri. Former students remembered Sister Mary Geraldine as a firm but fair educator who inspired excellence. Known affectionately by some as “Sister Jellybean,” she held high standards, expected students to do their best and treated all with fairness. She also fostered a deep love of music,
skillfully harmonizing student choirs and helping generations of children experience the beauty of the liturgy through song. Following her years in school administration, Sister Mary Geraldine joined other Sisters of Charity at Quindaro House in Kansas City, Kansas. There, she continued sharing her gifts through the Foster Grandparent Program, tutoring elementary students, teenagers preparing for the GED and at-risk high school students. She also ministered through Catholic Charities and All Saints School and was active with Wyandotte Interfaith Sponsoring Council (WISC), reflecting her enduring commitment to social justice. Sister Mary Geraldine moved to the motherhouse in Leavenworth in December 2012.
LOCAL NEWS 5
JANUARY 9, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD
Resurrection Catholic Cemetery in Lenexa was filled with wreaths honoring veterans as part of “Wreaths Across America.” More than 5,200 locations participated in this annual observance this past December.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD
On Dec. 13, the fourth-degree Knights of Columbus Council of Palms 6673 of Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa sponsored a “Wreaths Across America” observance at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery, which drew veterans from several eras.
‘Wreaths Across America’ honor veterans
E
very December, a powerful tradition unfolds across the nation. What began in 1992 with a truckload of surplus wreaths placed at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia has grown into a national movement called “Wreaths Across America.” This year, the movement included more than two million volunteers, 5,200 participating locations and millions of heartfelt tributes. On Dec. 13, the fourth-degree Knights of Colum-
bus Council of Palms 6673 of Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa sponsored a “Wreaths Across America” observance at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery, Lenexa. Volunteers braved freezing temperatures to lay 1,272 wreaths on veterans’ graves. At its core, “Wreaths Across America” is built on three pillars: • Remember the fallen U.S. veterans • Honor those who serve • Teach America’s children the value of freedom Each evergreen wreath laid is a living memorial; a
circle of life, unity and eternal gratitude. Volunteers speak the name of each veteran aloud, ensuring their memory lives on. This simple act of saying their name is a powerful reminder that they are not forgotten. The 2025 theme of the event was “Keep Moving Forward.” It calls Americans to action and reminds them that honoring the past gives strength and direction for the future. In a world that often moves too fast, “Wreaths Across America” invites people to pause, reflect and move forward with purpose.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD
After a ceremony honoring all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, volunteers braved the cold to lay 1,272 wreaths on graves of veterans in Resurrection and St. John Catholic cemeteries.
6 LOCAL NEWS
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JANUARY 9, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
Our God of second chances awaits us in the new year
he day after Christmas dawned gray and bleak. The forecast was snow, sleet, ice. Opened presents begged to be sorted and put away. There were clothes to try on, returns to make. Leftovers filled the fridge, a reminder that dinner would be mostly warm-overs. A Christmas cookie tempted for breakfast, as well as a fancy hot cocoa mix that had been gifted the day before. Christmas cards filled the mailbox. Sometimes the best ones come late, the ones that contain personal letters someone wrote just for you. There was so much to say “yes” to. So many blessings. But I let holiday buyer’s remorse creep in. Every year, I promise myself I will be less the frenzied consumer and more the thoughtful, focused buyer, but this year was far from perfect. I regretted the too-muchness, the holiday excess, the bag of wrapping paper which couldn’t be recycled, the way I had left my own wishes vague and therefore received stuff I didn’t need or couldn’t use. Listening to the morning news, I found myself disturbed with talk of how spending this season affected the economy, not how the birth of a Savior affected the state of
EFFIE CALDAROLA Effie Caldarola is a wife, mom and grandmother who received her master’s degree in pastoral studies from Seattle University.
our weary nation and world. No, I did not wake up in a merry mood the day after Christmas. A sore knee still ached. I indulged that anticlimactic feeling not unusual on the day after a Big Day. I struggled between enjoying the laziness granted by the day after, and the day after’s emotional letdown. The bah-humbug bug had bitten me overnight. And the fact that Christmas Day is followed, liturgically, by the feast of St. Stephen, stoned to death for his belief in Christ, seemed some kind of endorsement of my dour mood. Remember Debbie Downer on “Saturday Night Live?” I was Debbie in Grinch mode. It was that morning, as I sat before God in distracted prayer, handing God my mood, that I thought about
AI IMAGE/ADOBE STOCK
Our God is one of second chances — always ready to move forward. Not that we aren’t supposed to acknowledge our failings. But we can’t linger in the past. the approaching new year, and I felt the presence of the God of second chances. This God of ours, tapping on my shoulder, always stands waiting. The God of second chances is always ready to move forward. Not that we aren’t supposed to acknowledge our failings. But we can’t linger in the past, spending time beating ourselves up as God makes plans for us. So I handed God
ACROSS 1 Deli order 4 Charts 8 On the other side 14 Grain 15 Peacock blue 16 Of the same age 17 Eastern Time 18 Faddish devotion 19 State capital 20 Homage to God 22 Cooking measurement 23 Eve’s beginning 24 Louver 25 Harp 27 Compass point 29 Precedes an alias 31 Stretch to make do 33 KJV pronoun 36 Deer 39 New Jersey’s neighbor 40 Bark in pain 41 Time period 42 Skit 45 Mouth part 47 MGM’s Lion 48 At hand 50 Pock 52 Peter’s other name 54 Father 55 North American Indian COPYRIGHT © BY CLIFF LEITCH, THE CHRISTIAN BIBLE REFERENCE SITE, WWW.CHRISTIANBIBLEREFERENCE.ORG. USED BY PERMISSION
So I said thank you for a whole long list of things, and offered my day to God, the God of second chances, the God who led St. Stephen to Christ and to redemption. I reminded myself that for the new year, I will not make ironclad resolutions which pave the way for failure in 2026. I will journal some simple suggestions of hope and promise, things on which to focus, like thankfulness or my
my wish-I-could-havedone-betters and moved on. And I remembered the quote attributed to the German mystic Meister Eckhart: “If the only prayer you ever say in your entire life is thank you, it will be enough.” This life we’ve been given, this “wild and precious life,” as the poet Mary Oliver called it, is our enormous gift. And everything, from family to fancy hot cocoa, is gift.
56 57 59 61 65 67 69 71 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80
Indistinct High naval rank (abbr.) Enmity Pain Calorie Snacked Small furry rodent Notifies Plague of Egypt Wonder Opus After awhile Downwind Am I my brother’s __? Heredity component Deer relative
DOWN 1 Ales 2 Household cleaner brand 3 Domestic fish 4 Speed 5 Husband of Priscilla 6 Like orange juice 7 Stood opposite 8 Book after Gospels 9 Chicken houses 10 Representative 11 Deluge 12 Rice wine 13 Block 21 Poke
22 26 28 30 32 34 35 36 37 38 43 44 46 49 51 53 56 58 60 62 63 64 65 66 68 70 72 73
morning attitude. There are many things in the new year I can’t control. But I have power over my own attitude. When I see those words in my journal, I’ll ask how I’m doing, and thank God for my progress. And then, I will begin again, at that place where the God of second chances waits for me in the new year, and for all of us, as we move forward.
Word interpreted by Daniel Scarlet Pigpen Killed in action Samuel’s mentor Margarine On top Crook Opera solo Disciple Mary ___ Computer part A tenth part Pounds per square inch Owned Beverage Pixies Biblical church servant Dull KJV possessive pronoun Dickens’ “__ of Two Cities” (2 wds.) Stairway post Original language of NT Keg Healing plant Despot Word written on the wall (Daniel) Type of music Dawdle
Solution on page 15
LOCAL NEWS 7
JANUARY 9, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
New director helps Kansas pregnancy centers ‘link arms’ By Catherine Halbmaier Special to The Leaven
A
TCHISON — The pro-life movement in Kansas has never been busier. Under new executive director Eileen Lambert, Life Alliance Kansas (LAK) will make sure no pregnancy resource center has to adapt alone. After the “Value Them Both” amendment failed to pass in 2022, Preston and Melanie Bowman founded LAK. The organization seeks to provide a supportive network to pregnancy resource centers across Kansas, and, with Lambert’s help, increase awareness of these organizations. According to Deb Niesen, board vice president, Kansas has become an “abortion-destination state,” which highlights the need for pregnancy resource centers. “Our abortion numbers are skyrocketing,” said Niesen, who is the consultant of the pro-life office of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. “And I think the majority of our abortion numbers in the state of Kansas are coming from out-of-state women. So, a group of us got together to say, ‘OK, how are we going to market to those women coming into our state? How can we let them know about pregnancy resource centers, to offer another option, a better option for them and their baby?’” When the growing organization needed an executive director, Niesen
Eileen Lambert is the new executive director of Life Alliance Kansas. LAK seeks to provide a supportive network to pregnancy resource centers across Kansas. began the search for qualified candidates. “I had known Eileen because of her work at St. Mary’s Home for Mothers, and then, she was involved up at the Atchison pregnancy resource center,” Niesen said. “So, I knew she had a passion for this.” In fact, Lambert has exhibited a passion for the pro-life cause from a young age. “I volunteered with my grandma, who helped us start the Precious Life Shelter in Los Alamitos, California,” Lambert
said. “But by trade, I was an event coordinator before finding my way back into the pro-life ministry.” Lambert worked as the event coordinator at Benedictine College in Atchison before seeking her current position. It was the defeat of the “Value Them Both” amendment that pushed Lambert to seriously consider making a change. “I think I’ve always wanted to get back into it or do something more for the prolife industry,” Lambert said. “I felt really discouraged after we lost ‘Value Them Both’ back in 2022, and that kick-started my passion. I was just like OK, my vote didn’t work, I need to do something else.” Now, through LAK, she plans to make real change. Lambert’s first goal as executive director is to connect all the pregnancy resource centers in Kansas. “By nature, running a pregnancy center is very isolating,” Lambert said. “The job itself is attacked frequently by our culture. So, I think one really important thing is just getting all of them connected and helping them link arms.” Lambert has already seen examples of the strength that comes with connecting pregnancy resource centers. “Just this last week there was a gal who went to a pregnancy center in Dodge City and then traveled to Kansas City and had her baby early. She only had contacts with the people in Dodge City.” Through Lambert’s contact with the Dodge City resource center, the woman was connected with help in Kansas City. This is just one example of how the connections formed through LAK can
help both women and pregnancy resource centers. “It’s just really helping support pregnancy centers where they need help, and that looks different for all of them,” she said. “You know some of them need help with marketing, whereas others are doing great but they can offer their services for others. It’s just helping them do the work that they’re meant to do.” Of course, to do that work, people need to be aware of what pregnancy resource centers have to offer. Marketing is an area of emphasis for Lambert, especially with Planned Parenthood being such a recognizable brand to compete against. “The sad reality is that so many people, I mean like even Catholics, don’t actually know what a pregnancy center does,” Lambert said. “And most high schoolers will know what Planned Parenthood is because they have great marketing. They have brand recognition. While all of our pregnancy centers have different branding, there is something that Life Alliance as a state coalition can do — [it can] educate people and let people in the state be more familiar with what a pregnancy center is.” Lambert is just getting started. With her, LAK hopes to foster unity among pregnancy resource organizations and increase awareness like never before. If you would like to learn more and support Life Alliance Kansas, visit its website at: lifeallianceks.org.
MEN URGED TO PUT FAITH FIRST IN THE NEW YEAR By John Sorce john.sorce@theleaven.org
K
ANSAS CITY, Kan. — As the calendar turns to a new year, many people set goals they would like to work towards. For men, that can be aspiring to be a better husband or father. Or maybe simply be a better listener and put the wants and desires of others ahead of their own. But one thing we are all always working on is growing from a spiritual perspective. “The call from Jesus is to ‘take up our cross daily,’” said Father Aaron Waldeck, associate pastor of St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood. “If we don’t advance, we can stagnate or atrophy. Growing in our spiritual lives and moving forward is necessary to walk with the Lord as a disciple. “Jesus didn’t often stay put. He was moving around all the time during his ministry.” Here are some ways that men can look to take another step in their spiritual lives in the new year.
Beatitudes from the Heartland If you’re looking for a way to deepen your faith this year, look no further than the archdiocesan-wide Beatitudes from the Heartland program offered this Lent. Serving as the launch point of the new Renewal from the Heartland pastoral planning process, the Beatitudes is a small-group faith sharing opportunity that all Catholics across the archdiocese are encouraged to participate in. To facilitate that, there will be places to attend the four-part series all across northeast Kansas — whether at a parish, in homes or in public spaces. Discussion will be centered around the Beatitudes delivered by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount and how they can guide Catholics today. The series will also incorporate excerpts from Pope Leo’s first apostolic exhortation “Dilixi te” (“I have Loved You”), Pope Francis’ “Evangelii Gaudium” (“The Joy of the Gospel”) and “Lumen Gentium,” one of the principal documents of the Second Vatican Council. Like the entire pastoral planning process, organizers say, Beatitudes from the Heartland is designed to empower Catholics of all ages and walks of life to take their rightful place in helping set the course of the future church — starting right here in the archdiocese.
Men Under Construction A major recurring annual event strictly for men of the archdiocese is
Where to start
ADOBE STOCK/THE LEAVEN
Listening to Catholic podcasts can help men focus on listening to God’s word and people who live their lives following Catholic principles.
• Watch your parish bulletin or call your parish office to participate in Beatitudes from the Heartland or for other opportunities at your parish. .• Men Under Construction: menunderconstruction.org • FIRE: catholicfire.com • That Man is You!: paradisusdei. org/that-man-is-you • FORMED (under Scripture study): formed.org • Men of Nativity: kcnativity.org/ men-of-nativity • Volunteer opportunities at Christ the King, Topeka: ctktopeka. org/volunteer-1
Men Under Construction. The daylong gathering is designed to help men deepen their relationship with Christ through the celebration of the sacraments and engaging talks to strengthen faith. “Men are craving brotherhood and authentic masculine friendship,” said Brian Jacobson, who led one of the breakout sessions from last year’s event. “They are craving going deeper with the faith and a relationship with Jesus. “That is truly what we are made for, and I think this conference provides the opportunity for them to get those needs met.” This year’s event will take place on Feb. 21 at Church of the Ascension in Overland Park.
FIRE retreat If you are looking to get outdoors and spend a night away from all the distractions the world offers, the annual FIRE retreat is a good option. The “FIRE” acronym stands for Fellowship, Inspire, Renew and Engage. The retreat brings men together in an outdoor environment where they can share stories, encourage each other in their faith, and help them advance the Gospel in their homes and communities. “The goal is simply to bring men closer to Christ,” said Bart Vance, who attends Prince of Peace in Olathe and will be the council chief for this year’s retreat. “It takes place at a perfect time — early in the new year and just before Lent — to hit the reset button and start your year by walking down a path with other men who are in the same boat,” he said. This year’s retreat will take place Feb. 7-8 at Prairie Star Ranch in Williamsburg.
That Man is You! That Man Is You! was developed by Steve Bollman, who recognized the great need to develop strong families, mentally
Jesse Luck-Smith helps run That Man Is You! men’s ministry at Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa in this 2 children. and spiritually, beginning with men and fathers. The goal of the program is for men to develop and grow their relationship with Jesus first and foremost, and then with their wife and children. Most Pure Heart of Mary in Topeka is one parish in the archdiocese that offers the program, which meets for 90 minutes on Saturday mornings and includes a meal, a video presentation and a small group discussion. “I think each man of our That Man Is You! group can attest to the way Jesus and Our Lady has left a mark on his life through this men’s group,” said Andy Nioce, who is involved with the program at the parish. “A mark that states his is not alone from Jesus and Our Lady, and not alone from brothers,” he added.
Scripture study Spending time with Scripture and applying it in our daily lives is an effective method in growing in one’s walk with Christ. Church of the Holy Cross in Overland Park is one of many parishes in the archdiocese that offers groups for Scripture study. “God calls us to give him glory, living out our faith in very different lives,” said Deacon Tim McEvoy. “If you approach the Bible thoughtfully and prayerfully, the Holy Spirit will direct you how to put the message into effect.” Deacon McEvoy also recommends programs from FORMED, Father Mike Schmitz’s “The Bible in a Year” and the Jerome Biblical Commentary as other ways to study Scripture.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Catholic speaker Braden Johnson delivers his address at the Men Under Construction event in 2024. The day is designed to help men deepen their relationship with Christ.
ADOBE STOCK/THE LEAVEN
Beginning and ending each day with a prayer is a great way to help keep things in perspective.
going over each day with him at night — is something that has helped people a great deal. Even the little things that we tend to take for granted each day, such as the air we breathe, the food or water we drink or getting to places safely, are things we can pause for a moment and thank God for.
Listen to Catholic podcasts or audiobooks A lot of who we become comes from who we surround ourselves with and what we listen to. There’s a lot of “noise” in the world clamoring for our attention. And with the ever-persistent rise of social media, there’s more now than ever before. So, we need to be disciplined with where we’re placing our attention. Who are we listening to? What do we do with our free time? A good way to make sure our minds are in a healthy place is to be consistent with listening to God’s word and people who live their lives in that way.
Model forgiveness and humility
LEAVEN FILE PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE
2024 file photo. The goal of the program is for men to develop and grow their relationship with Jesus first and foremost, and then with their wife and
Parish men’s groups
Service activities
Men can often find fellowship right at their home parish. One very active men’s group is at Church of the Nativity in Leawood, called Men of Nativity. The group meets weekly after Wednesday morning Mass and will gather in a circle and open with introductions and a prayer. Some other things discussed each week include men sharing their closest moment to Christ, what they have read to better know Christ, and what each of their apostolic successes and challenges are. “All men of Nativity are already members,” said Bill Oades who, along with John Nohe and Paul Welsh, founded the group in 1988. “They just need to show up,” he said.
In a world where it can be easy to focus on our personal to-do lists, we sometimes need a reminder to look at those around us. One example of a service activity that takes place annually is Christmas in October, which is an area-wide program that puts volunteers across the city to work, rehabilitating the homes of the less fortunate at no cost. “People want to help in every walk of life,” said contractor Robert Massey, who helped with last year’s event. “But when you get a bunch of people who have the time, effort and means to do it, that’s when we come together and get some things done to help people in the community that are in need.” But activities don’t need to be on
a scale as large as renovating homes. Christ the King Parish in Topeka has a list of ministry opportunities for folks to get involved with the parish and serve their community.
At home The changes we want to make heading into a new year do not have to completely alter our daily routines. There are many ways in which we can keep our focus on the Lord throughout our daily lives.
Pray often Beginning and ending each day with a prayer is a great way to help keep things in perspective. Thanking God for each day you have — as well as
Humanity is not perfect. No matter how hard we may strive, there will be times where we fall short. But the good news is we do not have to be perfect, thanks to Jesus’ death and resurrection. Our sins are forgiven. Still, it is good to be self-aware and recognize when we do mess up. And be quick to repent and apologize when we do.
Do one hidden good deed each day Doing something, no matter how small it may seem, each day to help another person is a great way to help in one’s walk with the Lord. It can be something as simple as saying hello to someone who may appear alone, or paying for the person behind you in a drive-thru. One thing to remember here is not to do something for attention. That person may or may not know who helped them that day. All that should matter to you is that someone else’s day was made a little better.
10 LOCAL NEWS
JANUARY 9, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
‘Renewal’ calls church to live up to its definition, says archbishop >> Continued from page 1
“In today’s growing epidemic of isolation and loneliness — even if we have people around us — I believe . . . this process will challenge us to be more intentional to engage those who are invisible,” she said.
THIS EXPERIENCE INVITES PEOPLE TO REALIZE SOMETHING MUCH DEEPER: THAT EACH ONE OF US IS THE CHURCH.
A new yet ancient approach “A Renewal from the Heartland” was created by Archbishop McKnight and his synodal team: Father Hawken, Mills, Deacon Jim Mullin and Helen Osman, team coordinator. The group is following the universal church’s plan outlined in “Pathways for the Implementation Phase of the Synod (2025-28),” which was approved by Pope Francis on March 11, 2025. He had begun the synodal process in 2020, and it will culminate with an Ecclesial Assembly in Rome in October 2028. “‘A Renewal from the Heartland’ is our response to the Holy Father’s call to be a church that lives up to its definition,” said Archbishop McKnight. “As St. John Chrysostom wrote, the church is a ‘name standing for walking together.’ How we ‘walk together’ in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is ‘A Renewal from the Heartland.’ It’s as simple and profound as that,” he said. Osman, a consultant for the Vatican’s Dicastery for Communication, was skeptical when first asked to assist with the synodal process in 2021. “I read the documents and I thought, ‘Maybe this works in other parts of the world, but I don’t see it happening here,’” she said. “It was a lot of listening, which I think people in the U.S., we tend not to function that way. “It really is this ancient practice of Christian discernment. And that’s something that’s really foreign to many.” But since then, she’s seen its success and looks forward to the impact it can have on the archdiocese. “What I’m most excited about is giving people some hope,” said Osman. “I can say that my experience has been that this is not just an exercise in making people feel good. “I have seen people’s hearts are touched. And parishes have responded.” The synodal team emphasized that “A Renewal from the Heartland” is not about rewriting doctrine or church teaching. “We are not changing the definition of what it means to be Catholic or our teachings,” said Archbishop McKnight. “What we are hoping to improve is how we live that definition and teaching of being church.” Deacon Mullin, director of evangelization at Church of the Nativity in Leawood, said the process is “about reshaping how we live and experience the
DEACON JIM MULLIN
“A Renewal from the Heartland” will kick off this Lent with a small-group, faith-sharing program titled “Beatitudes from the Heartland.” faith we already profess.” “The early Christian communities didn’t think of the church as something ‘out there,’” he continued. “Their faith was lived in homes, relationships, prayer, mercy and shared life — that was the church in motion.” For Mills, it’s as simple as noticing the people around her at Mass, engaging with them, noticing when they’re not there and helping them fill a need without them having to ask. “It’s simply walking together, being and doing as a Christian what Christ is calling us to be — and the Beatitudes are the road map,” she said.
Guided by the standard “A Renewal from the Heartland” will kick off this Lent with a small-group, faith-sharing program titled “Beatitudes from the Heartland.” All Catholics in the archdiocese are encouraged to participate. “Lent always calls all of us to a spirit of renewal,” said Father Mike Hawken, and this series will be special in that parishes across the archdiocese will be participating at the same time. And not just parishes: The synodal team is encouraging any group to pick up the materials, including high schoolers, young adults, religious communities, moms’ groups or even neighbors. Facilitators and hosts will choose where to meet for the four-part series — whether at the parish, in homes or public spaces. Participants will have the opportunity to reflect on the Beatitudes given by Jesus during the Sermon on the Mount in Chapter Five of Matthew’s Gospel and how they can guide Catholics today. “There’s no purer way to set the standard of Christianity than the Beatitudes,” said Mills. “The Beatitudes show how we can be true disciples of the Lord in the way we
bear the difficulties of life with faith,” said Archbishop McKnight. “The Beatitudes are moments that draw the Holy Spirit to us and when we are closest to God,” he continued. “They are truly ‘blessed opportunities’ that bring a deeper meaning to life and spiritual satisfaction like no other.” The series will incorporate excerpts from Pope Leo’s first apostolic exhortation “Dilexi te” (“I Have Loved You”), Pope Francis’ apostolic exhortation “Evangelii Gaudium” (“The Joy of the Gospel”), and “Lumen Gentium” (“Light of the Nations”), one of the principal documents of the Second Vatican Council and promulgated by Pope St. Paul VI. Like the entire pastoral planning process, it’s designed to cultivate grassroots co-responsibility among all Catholics in the church’s mission. “For a lot of us, the church has been something outside of us — something we attend or approach when needed,” said Deacon Mullin. “This experience invites people to realize something much deeper: that each one of us is the church. “If this Lenten series helps people truly discover that, then everything changes. The relationship moves from ‘The church is something I go to,’ to ‘The church is something I am part of, responsible for and alive within.’ “That kind of awakening strengthens faith in a way no program ever could.”
Engaging the whole church The next phase of “A Renewal from the Heartland” will be “Listening with the Heart”: listening sessions throughout the archdiocese. Those sessions will take place across the archdiocese from April 12-26. “The listening sessions are gathering small groups together,” said Mills, “and asking them, ‘How can we be a better church in our community?’ “What do the people of the community need? The church can meet those needs and walk with people who need it.” Father Hawken’s message to Catholics for this phase is simple: “You are needed in this process. And we really want to hear from you. We want you to be a part of it.”
“[Participants] will be prompted to share their joys as well as their concerns about not only their individual parish, but the local church and the church universal,” said Father Hawken. “The listening sessions are not debating doctrine,” said Mills. “We have our Catechism [of the Catholic Church]. We know what the church should be. “This is how we can be a better church.” Deacon Mullin said it’s not a topdown approach that starts with answers but one that begins with listening to the needs of the people. Thus, the synodal team plans to engage the entire church community, including Catholic school students, those with special needs and people who are in prison. “We want to hear from everybody — as many as possible,” said Father Hawken,” [everyone who] makes up the beautiful, unique parts of the body of Christ here in northeast Kansas.”
Looking ahead Following the listening sessions, the archdiocese will conduct a survey for anyone interested in sharing feedback. Archbishop McKnight and the synodal team will process the information and share any themes it identifies with the deans (pastors who oversee a deanery, which is made up of parishes within a geographic location). The deans will then work with the archbishop, synodal team and archdiocesan pastoral council to figure out ways to respond to needs locally. On Sept. 12, an archdiocesan-wide gathering of pastors and parish pastoral council representatives will convene. There, the synodal team will present a report on the themes it discovered, and the archbishop will offer a reflection. Synodal team members said that’s where the pastoral planning process will truly begin. “We look to every member within our archdiocesan church to get involved in this,” said Father Hawken of the process, “and to help us promote it and invite people into it.” He hopes Catholics will be ready to “discover anew how to live this mission that Christ entrusted to us the best that we can.” Deacon Mullin said at the core of this process is the Sacred Heart of Jesus, which he believes “is gathering his people, softening our hearts and drawing us back into the kind of love that can actually heal the world. “These are the kinds of moments God uses to change the course of history. “And he’s choosing to begin it here, with us, in the heartland.” To learn more about “A Renewal from the Heartland,” visit the website at: archkck.org/renewal-heartland.
WORLD 11
JANUARY 9, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
Kidnapped Nigerian children returned By Paul Samasumo OSV News
P
APIRI, Nigeria (OSV News) — Following the liberation of all the children and staff abducted from St. Mary’s School in the Nigerian town of Papiri, the Sisters of Our Lady of Apostles, who manage the school, have expressed deep gratitude for the support received during the trying period. “With profound relief and thanksgiving, we celebrate that every child and every staff member has now returned to safety after weeks of fear, uncertainty and intense prayer,” said Sister Mary T. Barron, congregation leader of the OLA Sisters. She added, “From the first hours of the abduction, the OLA family — together with the local church in the Diocese of Kontagora, the families of Papiri and communities across Nigeria — was upheld by a remarkable global solidarity of prayer and advocacy. We extend our deepest and most heartfelt gratitude to all who stood with us during this painful time.” The OLA Sisters said they are grateful to religious congregations around the world who organized vigils, rosaries and days of fasting. They acknowledged dioceses, parishes, and Catholic communities and schools that kept the children and staff at the center of their Advent prayer. Others to whom the religious women feel indebted include interfaith partners, especially Muslim
By Junno Arocho Esteves OSV News
R OSV NEWS PHOTO/MARVELLOUS DUROWAIYE, REUTERS
Schoolchildren from St. Mary’s School in Papiri, Nigeria, arrive at the Niger State Government House Dec. 8, 2025, after being freed from captivity following their abduction by gunmen Nov. 21. Church officials confirmed that the remaining 130 students were released on Dec. 21. leaders and communities, who joined their voices and prayers for peace; human rights organizations, civil society groups, and diplomatic partners who raised awareness and advocated tirelessly on behalf of the children and staff of St. Mary’s. Sister Mary said they’re grateful to “all people of goodwill who refused to remain silent and who carried this suffering community in their hearts.” “Your compassion became a lifeline. Your prayers strengthened the captives and their families. Your advocacy ensured that the world did not look away,” the congregational
leader emphasized, adding that the Sisters “are deeply moved by this outpouring of love and solidarity.” As the children and staff begin the long process of healing from the trauma they endured, the OLA Sisters have asked everyone to continue holding the liberated children and staff in prayer. The Sisters also renewed their “plea for greater protection of schools and vulnerable communities throughout Nigeria. Every child deserves to learn without fear. Every family deserves to live in safety.”
Vatican sees record number of visitors during Jubilee Year By Josephine Peterson Catholic News Service
V
ATICAN CITY (CNS) — An estimated 33 million visitors and pilgrims came to the Vatican to celebrate the Jubilee Year, exceeding early forecasts, officials said at a news conference at the Vatican Jan. 5. Archbishop Rino Fisichella, proprefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization’s section for new evangelization and chief organizer of the 2025 Holy Year, said the figure is based on estimates from a study by Roma Tre University, online registrations for the Holy Year, and the number of people who passed through the Holy Doors of Rome’s major basilicas and attended papal events. By the time the Holy Year ended Jan. 6, he said, at least 33 million people will have taken part, which breaks down to more than 90,000 people a day. The period with the most pilgrims in Rome was during the Jubilee of Young People from July 21 to Aug. 10, which registered more than 13 million people. Early estimates had expected that the Jubilee Year would bring 30 to 35 million visitors to the Vatican. The city saw about 22 million people come to Rome in 2024, Roberto Gualtieri, mayor of Rome, said during the news conference. Based on data collected solely from registered pilgrims, visitors from the United States ranked second only to Italy, accounting for nearly 13% of the total number of registered visitors,
Pope Leo, bishops react to US capture of Maduro
CNS PHOTO/PABLO ESPARZA
A group of pilgrims walk through St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican on their way to the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica April 2, 2025. in supporting the inflow of visitors, Archbishop Fisichella said. Pilgrims and said that the increase also led to infrom more than 185 countries particicreased visitor rates across the city’s pated in the Jubilee Year. “It is inevitable that such a milestone tourist sites. Gualtieri agreed, saying it was a also brings with it an assessment of this year, which in many respects has year of unprecedented tourism across been extraordinary. Begun under Pope the city. To accommodate the Jubilee Francis, the Jubilee concludes under Year and the influx of visitors, conPope Leo XIV,” the archbishop said in struction crews completed 110 projects Italian. “The funeral and the new elec- across Rome, including the restoration tion were added to the entire Jubilee of historic squares, monuments and program, showing the whole world the holy sites. ability to act with determination and Vatican leaders have already begun confidence amid an exceptional series planning the next Jubilee Year, which will take place in 2033 to commemorate of events.” Archbishop Fisichella thanked the 2,000th anniversary of the death and Rome’s officials for their hard work resurrection of Jesus.
OME (OSV News) — Pope Leo XIV expressed “deep concern” following the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores by the United States in a large-scale attack. After reciting the Angelus prayer with pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square Jan. 4, the pope said the “well-being of the beloved Venezuelan people must prevail over all other considerations and lead to overcoming violence and pursuing paths of justice and peace.” Entrusting Venezuela to its patroness Our Lady of Coromoto as well as the country’s recently canonized saints — Sts. José Gregorio Hernández and Carmen Rendiles — Pope Leo called on Catholics to pray and highlighted the need to respect Venezuela’s right to autonomy and self-determination. “This must guarantee the country’s sovereignty, ensure the rule of law enshrined in the Constitution, respect the human and civil rights of all, and work to build together a serene future of collaboration, stability and harmony, with special attention to the poorest who suffer due to the difficult economic situation,” he said. After months of tension, U.S. President Donald Trump ordered the nighttime military operation Jan. 3, capturing Maduro and his wife, and transporting them to New York to face narco-terrorism conspiracy charges, The Associated Press reported. According to AP, Venezuelan officials said some people were killed in the U.S. attack but did not disclose the number of casualties. Reactions from around the world have been mixed, with many, particularly Venezuelans in the diaspora, hailing Maduro’s capture, while others expressed concerns that the U.S. attack violated international law. The country’s bishops issued a brief “message of accompaniment and closeness with the people of God” via Instagram and X that did not comment directly on the capture of the Venezuelan president and his wife, but instead urged for “prayer for the unity of our people.” “In light of the events that our country is experiencing today, let us ask God to grant all Venezuelans serenity, wisdom and strength,” the bishops said. “We express our solidarity with those who were wounded and the families of those who died.” Less than an hour later, the bishops issued a second brief statement calling on the people of Venezuela “to live more intensely in hope and fervent prayer for peace in our hearts and in society, rejecting any type of violence.” “May our hands open for encounter and mutual aid, and may the decisions that are taken always be made for the well-being of our people,” the bishops wrote.
12 CLASSIFIEDS EMPLOYMENT Teachers - Nativity Parish School (Leawood) is seeking full-time teachers for the 2026-27 school year: fifth grade teacher, Spanish teacher, PE teacher; middle school teachers: ELA, reading, math and a full-time K-8th grade reading interventionist. Interested applicants should email principal Luke Jennison at: luke.jennison@kcnativity.org. Administrative assistant - St. Joseph Church in Shawnee is looking for a friendly and organized administrative assistant to join our team. The ideal candidate will provide support to clergy, parish staff, parishioners and visitors. Interested candidates are invited to apply at: https://church.stjoeshawnee.org/ news/697-now-hiring. For more information, contact Melissa Thomas at: mthomas@stjoeshawnee.org or call (913) 631-5983. Safe driver - Needed to transport young adults with special needs to and from their job locations. This is a substitute position to serve as backup to our regular drivers. Company-owned vehicles. The Mission Project, a not-for-profit organization, is based in Mission, KS. See our website at: www.themissionproject. org. $16 per hour. At least 24-hour prior notification. Perfect for retirees willing to spend occasional time at a reasonable rate. All clients can enter and exit the vehicle independently. Excellent driving record, background checks and references are required. Call Alvan at (913) 269-2642. Caregiver - Senior caregiver needed for a lady who lives in Prairie Village. Need 2-3 days/wk from 12-5 p.m. Please call or text Jeanne at (913) 415-7696. References must be provided. Choral conductor - St. Patrick Church in Kansas City, Kansas, is looking for a choral conductor to lead the choir. This opportunity would be a paid, part-time position (4-5 hours per week) and would require a weeknight rehearsal and weekly Sunday morning. The candidate would work closely with our music director to choose liturgically appropriate music. Knowledge of Catholic liturgical music tradition is preferred. For a job description and application, please see our website at: stpatrickkck.org or reach out at: office@stpatrickkck.org. Benet House Retreat Center director - Benet House is seeking a full-time director who is responsible for all operations, including programming retreats throughout the year. Benet House Retreat Center is owned and operated by the Sisters of St. Benedict at St. Mary Monastery, Rock Island, Illinois. It is located on 90 acres with walking paths, a wooded area, a lake and an abundance of wildlife. Benet House “welcomes each person as Christ” (RB) and is open to all faiths. The applicant must have at least 3 years’ experience in retreat ministry. For more information, go to: www.smmsisters.org/retreats or take a tour at: https://smmsisters.org/virtual-monastery. Applicants must submit a cover letter and resume. The cover letter should speak to your qualifications and leadership experience. Please email to: rbussan @smmsisters.org. Outreach manager at Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas - Do you have a passion for educating and advocating on social justice issues? Catholic Charities is seeking a compassionate, joy-filled and motivated individual to serve as an outreach manager. Primary responsibilities include leading the outreach team in the areas of community and parish engagement, poverty education and federal food programming across the 21 counties of the archdiocese. To learn more or apply, visit: https://catholic charitiesks.org/careers/. Caregivers needed - Daughters & Company is looking for compassionate caregivers to provide assistance to seniors in their home, assisted living or in a skilled nursing facility. We provide sitter services, light housekeeping and light meal preparation, organizational assistance, care management and occasional transportation for our clients. We need caregivers with reliable transportation and a cellphone for communication. We typically employ on a part-time basis, but will strive to match hours desired. Contact Gary or Laurie at (913) 341-2500 if you want to become part of an excellent caregiving team. Catholic financial planners - The Knights of Columbus Mahon Agency has openings throughout all of NE Kansas and western Missouri, including Kansas City, Topeka, Holton, Wamego, Lawrence, Gardner, Liberty and Chillicothe. We have much to offer professional, disciplined and determined men who would like to share needed life insurance, disability income, longterm care and annuity products with other Catholics. This is a full-time position with excellent, multi-tiered training and benefits, allowing the successful field agent to earn a professional level income. It’s an exciting career opportunity that may be the right fit at the right time for you, or someone you know. For more information, contact John Mahon at (785) 4088800, or john.mahon@kofc.org. Catholic elementary school principal - St. Matthew School in Topeka is seeking a dynamic and visionary leader with a passion for Catholic education. The principal will continue the school’s tradition of forming disciples, pursuing academic excellence and spiritual growth. The principal will lead by example and inspire a team of dedicated faculty and staff. Applicants must have or be eligible for Kansas licensure in educational leadership. Apply online at: archkckcs. org/apply. For more information, contact Vince Cascone at: vcascone@archkckcs.org.
JANUARY 9, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG Catholic elementary school principal - Holy Spirit School in Overland Park is seeking a dynamic and visionary leader with a passion for Catholic education. The principal will continue the school’s tradition of forming disciples, pursuing academic excellence and spiritual growth. The principal will lead by example and inspire a team of dedicated faculty and staff. Applicants must have or be eligible for Kansas licensure in educational leadership. Apply online at: archkckcs. org/apply. For more information, contact Vince Cascone at: vcascone@archkckcs.org. Part-time kitchen assistant - Nativity School in Leawood is seeking a part-time kitchen assistant, 8 to 15 hours a week. Duties will include prepping food, serving food, setting up/breaking down food service line and garden bar, cleaning and washing dishes. Any candidate hired will need to pass a criminal background check and attend Virtus training as conditions of employment. Applicants should email principal Luke Jennison at: luke.jennison@kcnativity.org. Office property manager - Edwardsville Court Apartments is seeking an office property manager. We are willing to train you. Inquiries, please call (913) 4416007. Small equipment cleaning/repair - A locally owned family business is currently seeking part-time candidates to provide cleaning and repair services on microscopes. Expenses paid, work done in the field and each day is different! No previous experience necessary, on-the-job training provided. Needs to be detail-oriented team player, with good time management and customer service skills. Some travel with the team is required. Please contact us at: techneeded23@gmail.com or call (913) 631-3000.
SERVICES Dewfall Media Professional Video Services - We partner with you to tell meaningful and engaging stories through visual media. Holiday sale: 33% off select video packages through January 12. www. dewfallmedia.com. Contact Andrew: (717) 818-5168. Custom countertops - Laminates installed within 5 days. Cambria, granite and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee. Joe’s Decks & More Deck and fence repair, mowing and handyman services Member of St. Joseph in Shawnee (913) 449-9848 Pure Touch Cleaning KC - Bringing warmth and comfort back into your home this winter! Locally owned • Women-led • Family-based care you can trust. Deep cleans • Regular maintenance • Move-in/out • Holiday prep. Call/text: Owner Nicole (913) 999-6267. Let us make your home feel fresh, cozy and ready for the season. TOTAL HOME REPAIR All aspects of interior home repairs. Retired master plumber. Professional interior painting, general repairs, tile work. Handyman services. Lifetime of experience. Army veteran. Ascension parishioner. (913) 488-4930 Pro Force Property Cleanout Services - Full home and property cleanouts: furniture, appliances, trash. Yard cleanup including trees or any debris. We do eviction or foreclosure cleanouts, move in, move out. Cleanouts throughout the Greater Kansas City area. Call Michael at (913) 565-5206 or email: MichaelMcMahan012@gmail.com. Popcorn ceiling texture removal Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144. 30 years’ experience. Interior painting specialist. Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee. MIKE HAMMER MOVING - A full-service mover. Local and long-distance moving. Packing, pianos, rental truck load/unload, storage container load/unload. In-home moving and office moves. No job too small. Serving the KC metro since 1987. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, parishioner. Call the office at (913) 927-4347 or email: mike@mikehammermoving.com. Jack Harrison Heating & Air Conditioning - Proudly serving Johnson County, Kansas, parts of KCK and KCMO, we’re your trusted local experts in residential and light commercial HVAC. Whether you need a repair, seasonal tuneup or full system replacement, we’ve got you covered — with honest advice, quality work and friendly service. We’re a family-owned and operated company, rooted in the community as members of St. Paul Parish in Olathe. Call Jack Harrison Heating & Air today at (913) 308-3131 or visit: www. JackHarrisonAir.com to schedule online. Let our family take care of yours! Landscaping Design or Renovate! Light tree trimming/gutters Fall cleanup/leaf removal Free estimates; local parishioners. Call Charles or Emily (913) 605-8145. Two men and a brush - Refresh, repaint, renew your home with painting you can trust! Call for a free estimate on your house, deck or fence! Call John at (402) 763-7244.
Double A’s Lawn Service Lawn mowing, Mulching, Gutters, Leaf Removal Brush Removal & Hedge Trimming Free Estimates & Insured Alex Spoerre (913) 488-5195 Faith-based counseling to cope with life concerns - Kansas City area. Call Mary Vorsten, licensed clinical professional counselor, at (913) 909-2002. Bill Dean Mechanical LLC Heating, Cooling, Electrical, and Plumbing Furnace, AC and Water Heater Install and Service wmdean14@hotmail.com, billdeanmechanical.com Joco lic. # 2026-0008446, text or call (913) 724-3294 Memory quilts - Preserve your memories in a keepsake quality quilt, pillows, etc. Custom designed from your T-shirt collection, baby clothes, sports memorabilia, neckties . . . Quilted Memories. (913) 649-2704. Sacred Heart Counseling - Are you looking for mental health care that aligns with the Catholic faith? We have offices in Olathe, Leawood & Atchison, openings days, evenings & weekends. Book online at SacredHeart CounselingKC.com, in person or telehealth. GARAGE DOOR REPAIR EXPERTS New Garage Doors & Openers A Total Door, Inc. Since ’83. Leaven Discount buffy@atotaldoor.com or (913) 236-6440 www.atotaldoor.com
HOME IMPROVEMENT Haus to Home Remodeling - Transform your space with affordable remodeling done right. Bathrooms, basements and everything in between — crafted with honesty and quality. Family-owned with free estimates. Haustohomekc.com | Cole (913) 544-7352. Father and Son Home Remodeling - We specialize in kitchen/bathroom and basement remodeling, from start to finish. We also do decks, covered decks, porches, sun-rooms and room additions! If you’re not sure we do it, just call. From my family to yours, thank you for supporting my small business. To contact me, call (913) 709-7230 and ask for Josh.
FOR SALE
For sale - Two plots at Mt. Calvary cemetery in KCK, including opening and closing, section 11, lot 119, space 1A-2A. $4500 includes transfer fee. Contact Dave at (913) 302-3924. Residential lifts - New and recycled. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. St. Michael’s parishioners. KC Lift & Elevator at (913) 327-5557. (Formerly Silver Cross - KC.)
PILGRIMAGE European pilgrimage - March 15-25, 2026, join Father William Carey, Deacon Tom Doyle and Grace Legaspi on a pilgrimage to Medjugorje, Lourdes and Paris. Celebrate Mass at Lourdes, Sacre Coeur overlooking Paris and at the place where Our Lady gave us the Miraculous Medal. See the incorrupt body of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque and the updated Notre Dame Cathedral! Traverse the steps millions have climbed on Apparition Hill. Email Grace at: mgracelegaspi@gmail. com for details. Peru Pilgrimage: Evangelization of the Ancient Incas – July 19-30, 2026. Join us for an unforgettable 11-day journey from Lima to the Sacred Valley, exploring Machu Picchu, Cusco and the lives of saints like St. Rose of Lima. Experience the dramatic encounter between the ancient Incas and the flourishing Catholic baroque of Peru. Space is limited! Early bird pricing until Feb. 19, 2026. For details, email: olivia. stear@viaheritagetravel.com.
WANTED TO BUY BUYING OIL & GAS ROYALTIES Simplify your life. Paying 48 times average last 6 months income. Call Dan (913) 980-0946. Will buy firearms and related accessories - One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee. Wanted to buy Do you have a spare car or truck that you need to get rid of? If you do, CALL ME! I’m a cash buyer. We’re Holy Trinity parishioners. My name is Mark. (913) 980-4905.
FOR SALE - Treasure Lake Luxury Resort & Campground Membership. — Branson, MO. $1000 (dues paid for 2025). This private, gated RV resort has over 340 acres with 588 RV sites, mini golf with indoor/ outdoor pools, pickleball/tennis/basketball courts, community room, restaurant, playgrounds and a community clubhouse with activities. This worldclass RV resort is right in the heart of one of the USA’s premier vacation areas Branson, Missouri, close to the cleanest water recreation, professional entertainment venues, shopping, dining experiences and family fun. Treasure Lake requires a transfer fee of $331 (deed recorded at county courthouse/admin fees) paid by buyer and annual renewal of membership of $180 starting in 2026. You pay all fees for transfers. Sold our camper as husband is in nursing home. Phone (785) 221-2738 for info.
$$Paying Cash$$ - Antique Furniture, crocks, tin and cast iron toys, old tools, glassware, American coins, jewelry. Most anything old. Please call Patricia at (913) 515-2950. A member of Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa.
Small farm/business operation opportunity - STA Home Repair is moving to another state. Looking to sell property and business assets: 1955 Oregon Road, Princeton, Kansas. 3 buildings, 1 Barndo/Shop, RV hookups – 200 Amp service with portable heat and AC – office, kitchen area – 10-foot garage door and entry door, 1 cabin with wood stove and AC/shop, 1 pole barn, 2 sinks, 1 shower, 1 toilet, stocked pond, boat and equipment storage over half fenced, multiple gardens, minifarm, bring the horses. Great for contractor with trailers, 25-30 minutes to Gardner or intermodal facility; 35-40 minutes to Olathe and Overland Park; and less than 10 minutes to Ottawa. Close to the Hillsdale and Pomona lakes. Asking $290,000. Cash and/ or pre-approved financing. Showing by appointment only. Text name and number to (913) 579-1835.
REAL ESTATE
For sale - Two plots in Resurrection North Cemetery, off of Cookingham Rd., in Kansas City, Missouri. Both plots are located in the Annunciation Garden, lot 185, section D, spaces 3 and 4. Beautiful location, shaded area with benches close by and easy access from the cemetery road. Value is $2095 each, selling both for $3000, which includes perpetual care. Please contact Chuck at (816) 519-9288 and leave a voicemail; I will return your call within the same day. For sale - 2 casket crypt at St. John’s Corridor mausoleum at Gate of Heaven. Tier A, crypt 6, valued $15,885. Asking $11,000 (includes transfer fee). Contact Kristen (913) 645-3428.
The Power of Prayer Spiritual Retreat Sat, Jan. 24, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
CASH PAID FOR COIN COLLECTIONS! Silver dollar coins, half-dollars, quarters, dimes, old pennies. Cash in hand. Also paying cash for old paper currency. Cash in that old dusty box of coins! Call Kirk (913) 213-9843. Member of Holy Trinity Parish. Please sell to local people. WANTED TO BUY - PAYING CASH Antiques & Collectibles: jewelry, military items, railroad items, sterling, OLD holiday/toys & more. Renee Maderak (913) 475-7393 St. Joseph, Shawnee.
We buy houses and whole estates - We are local and family-owned and will make you a fair cash offer. We buy houses in any condition. No fees or commissions and can close on the date of your choice. Selling your house has never felt so good. Jon & Stacy Bichelmeyer, (913) 599-5000. We are local people who can buy your house - Big companies from all over the nation come here buying houses, but that’s not us. We are parishioners of Holy Trinity Parish and we enjoy giving you personalized service. We can offer you a fair price and are flexible to your needs. If I can help, call me, Mark Edmondson, at (913) 980-4905.
CAREGIVING Caregiving - Homecare CNA with 15 years’ experience. Monday-Friday. Call (913) 526-0797. Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management and transportation for seniors in their home, assisted living or nursing facilities. We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Laurie, Pat or Gary.
NEED HELP HEALING FROM A PAST ABORTION?
St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee Cost is $45 and includes breakfast and lunch Register: www.cursillokcks.com All are welcome
Call or text 913-621-2199 Compassionate, Confidential, Free
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ICARE MINISTRIES MASS Queen of the Holy Rosary Church 7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park Jan. 10 at 6 p.m.
iCare Ministries provides two adapted Mass opportunities per month for children and adults with developmental disabilities and their families. Send an email to: icarenek@gmail.com with questions. Visit the website: icare-ministries.org for more information about this and other activities.
BREAKFAST WITH THE KNIGHTS Divine Mercy Church 555 W. Main St., Gardner Jan. 11 from 8:30 to 10 a.m.
Breakfast will include eggs, sausage, biscuits and gravy, pancakes, waffles and drinks. Cost will be $6 for those over the age of 13; free for 12 and under. Proceeds are used for charitable works, such as scholarships and other giving throughout the year.
LEFTOVERS PARTY Church of the Ascension (St. John Room) 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park Jan. 12 at 6:30 p.m.
Heartache to Healing is a social support group for those widowed early in life. Now that the holidays are over, come to our “leftovers” party. Please bring your leftover cookies, snacks, drinks and a “leftover” I’mnever-going-to-use-that-gift for our white elephant game. Your emailed RSVP is appreciated, but not necessary, to Laura at: khaeus1@hotmail.com.
WIDOWS/WIDOWERS MEETING Most Pure Heart of Mary Church (Culhane Room) 3601 S.W. 17th St., Topeka Jan. 22 at 1:30 p.m.
Join the Daughters of Isabella for a rosary, business meeting and social time. If anyone knows of a member or family member of Daughters of Isabella in need of the circle’s prayers call Shirley Gustafson at (785) 554-3028.
ROSARY RALLY All Saints Church 811 Vermont Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Jan. 25 from 3 to 4:15 p.m.
Please join us to honor Our Blessed Mother and Our Lady of Fatima. We will pray the joyful, sorrowful and glorious mysteries, followed by Benediction and the opportunity to enroll in the brown scapular. For more info, visit the website at: www. rosaryrallieskc.org.
IGNITE FOR LIFE RALLY Kansas State Capitol 8th & S.W. Van Buren, Topeka Jan. 28
COURTESY PHOTO
Join the bishops of Kansas and Catholics from across the state for the 2026 Kansas March for Life! IGNITE for Life is a Catholic, pro-life rally for the protection of unborn children and women facing challenging pregnancies. The event includes live music, inspiring speakers, the celebration of Mass with the Kansas bishops and a ministry fair. Eucharistic adoration is offered from 1 to 3 p.m. at Assumption Church across from the Capitol. Go online to: archkck.org/ignite for details and to register. Registration is free; space is limited.
SINGLES DANCE FOR 45 AND OLDER Church of the Ascension 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park Jan. 30 from 7 to 10 p.m.
This will be a free potluck lunch. Bring a covered dish or dessert. Quarter bingo will be played after dinner. For more information, text Gen Orozco at (785) 230-2473.
Come join us for an evening of music and new connections, low key and relaxed, for adults 45 and older. Tickets are $10 and include beer, wine, sparkling water and appetizers. Tickets are available online until noon on Jan. 28 at: kcascension.org. Wallflowers and free spirits — all are welcome to dance, meet and mingle.
RETROUVAILLE OF KANSAS CITY Savior Pastoral Center 12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kansas Jan. 23 to 25
JOURNEY TO JOY RETREAT Church of the Nativity 3800 W. 119th St., Leawood Jan. 31 from 8:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Is your marriage struggling or do you know a marriage that is struggling? Retrouvaille is a program that helps couples restore their marriage and rebuild a loving relationship. This is a practical program to improve communication and help couples connect. Life is too short to not live in joy. Register online at: www.helpourmarriage.org or call 1 (800) 470-2230.
SANCTA MARIA FUNDRAISER Abe & Jake’s Landing 8 E. 6th St., Lawrence Jan. 24 at 6 p.m.
Join us for a silent auction, raffle, games, dinner and dancing in support of Catholic Montessori education. Semi-formal attire is required. A $50 ticket includes dinner and two alcoholic drinks. Contact Theresa Clark for more information by email at: raventmf@ yahoo.com or call (785) 727-0942.
BOOK REFLECTION FOR WOMEN Church of the Nativity (Magi Room) 3800 W. 119th St., Leawood Jan. 24 from 8:15 to 11 a.m.
The Society of the Daughters of St. Francis de Sales invites women to reflect on Pope Francis’ apostolic exhortation “The Joy of the Gospel” and celebrate St. Francis de Sales’ feast day after Mass. All materials are provided, and coffee and light refreshments will be served. RSVP to Ruth Owens online at: rowens4853@ gmail.com. For additional information, visit the website at: www.sfdsassociation.org.
LITTLE FLOWER CIRCLE #503 Christ the King Parish (Yadrich Hall) 5973 S.W. 25th St., Topeka Jan. 25 at 12:50 p.m.
Join us for a women’s retreat that will be filled with faith and friendship. It starts with Mass and will include breakfast, talks by Father Luke Doyle and national speaker Kelsey Skoch, and reconciliation. Cost is $25. Register online at: www.kcnativity. org/journey or send an email to Patti at: pbgehring@gmail.com.
BINGO Sacred Heart Church 1100 West St., Tonganoxie Jan. 31 at 6:15 p.m.
The 4:ThirTEENs youth group will be hosting their bingo fundraiser. A concession stand will open at 5:30 p.m. A $10 donation for the bingo card plays all night. Regular game prizes are valued between $5 to $10 with multiple winners at each game; cash prizes of up to $100 for the blackout game. Door prizes will be given out throughout the evening.
BINGO NIGHT Sacred Heart Church 2646 S. 34th St., Kansas City, Kansas 2nd Saturdays at 7 p.m.
The Sacred Hearts Knights of Columbus will be hosting bingo for cash prizes. Refreshments will be sold. For more information, call Kevin at (913) 207-0900.
CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS
DEADLINE: Noon, Thursday, eight days before the desired publication date. SEND SUBMISSIONS martin@theleaven.org.
TO:
olivia.
St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood, celebrated four new Eagle Scouts from Troop 333 at a Court of Honor. From left are: Anthony Eid, Knox Starr, Father Brian Schieber (pastor of St. Michael), Mason Bennett and Alex Sollars. For his Eagle project, Eid planned and led Scouts in building a natural barrier between the St. Michael Parish playground and the neighbor on the east side by planting juniper shrubs. Starr made improvements to the prayer garden north of the church, making it more accessible and adding new benches and flowerpots for his Eagle project. Bennett made improvements to Corinth Cemetery in Prairie Village, including recordkeeping, and headstone cleaning and repair for his Eagle project. Sollars restored an old crucifix and had it installed in the St. Michael School cafeteria for his Eagle project.
Paul and Norma Lueske, members of St. Leo Parish, Horton, recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary. The couple was married on Dec. 26, 1960, at St. Peter Church, Mercier. They have four daughters, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. The family is celebrating this milestone at the family home in rural Horton.
Glenda (Koelzer) and Jerry Schultejans, members of St. Bede Parish, Kelly, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a Mass on Jan. 4. The couple was married on Jan. 3, 1976, at Sts. Peter & Paul Church, Seneca, by Father Ralph Koehler. They will celebrate at a later date. Their children are: Carrie Young, Kim Howard and Curt Schultejans. They also have six grandchildren.
14 COLUMNISTS DAILY READINGS FIRST WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Jan. 11 THE BAPTISM OF THE LORD Is 42: 1-4, 6-7 Ps 29: 1-4, 3, 9-10 Acts 10: 34-38 Mt 3: 13-17 Jan. 12 Monday 1 Sm 1: 1-8 Ps 116: 12-19 Mk 1: 14-20 Jan. 13 Hilary, bishop, doctor of the church 1 Sm 1: 9-20 (Ps) 1 Sm 2: 1, 4-8d Mk 1: 21-28 Jan. 14 Wednesday 1 Sm 3: 1-10, 19-20 Ps 40: 2, 5, 7-10 Mk 1: 29-39 Jan. 15 Thursday 1 Sm 4: 1-11 Ps 44: 10-11, 14-15, 24-25 Mk 1: 40-45 Jan. 16 Friday 1 Sm 8: 4-7, 10-22a Ps 89: 16-19 Mk 2: 1-12 Jan. 17 Anthony, abbot 1 Sm 9: 1-4, 17-19; 10: 1 Ps 21: 2-7 Mk 2: 13-17
CHRISTINA THE ASTONISHING 1150-1224
Born at Brusthem, Belgium, Christina had a seizure at age 21 that was thought to have killed her. At the Mass being said for her, she suddenly flew to the top of the church, later saying she had been to hell, purgatory and heaven, and was allowed to return to earth to pray for suffering souls. This was one of the incredible events attributed to this poor, likely schizophrenic mystic, called “Christina Mirabilis,” who reportedly flew to treetops and rooftops to avoid smelling other people. She spent her last years in St. Catherine Convent in Saint-Trond, and is a patron saint of psychiatrists, psychologists and those suffering mental illness.
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It helps to look at the holidays another way
ver the past couple of weeks, people have asked, “Did you have a good holiday season, Father?” I was tempted to answer grumpily, “Oh, was there a holiday season? I didn’t notice since I was so busy!” I replayed the holidays in my mind: the stress of getting a Leaven done the Monday before Christmas; celebrating three Christmas Masses; coming back a couple of days later to celebrate three more Masses for the feast of the Holy Family; then, more Masses for the solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God; add to that a funeral on the Saturday after New Year’s Day and then three more Masses for Epiphany. There were, of course, Christmas cards that I was frantically trying to get written and mailed, confessions and a baptism. Every time the “Woe is me” attitude threatened to overtake me, I reflected on this story: A little boy was tell-
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MARK MY WORDS
FATHER MARK GOLDASICH Father Mark is the pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie. He has been editor of The Leaven since 1989.
ing his grandma how “everything” was going wrong: school, family problems, sickness, etc. Meanwhile, Grandma is baking a cake. She asks her grandson if he’d like a snack. Of course, he says, “Sure!” “Here,” Grandma says, “have some cooking oil.” “Yuck,” says the boy. “Well, how about a couple of raw eggs?” she asks. “Gross, Grandma!” replies the kid.
“OK, would you like some flour then? Or some baking soda?” she suggests. “Grandma, those are all terrible!” says the kid. With a smile, Grandma then says, “Yes, all those things seem bad all by themselves. But when they’re put together in the right way, they make a wonderfully delicious cake! “God works the same way. Many times, we wonder why he would let us go through such difficult times. But God knows that when he puts all these things in his order, they always work for good! We just have to trust him and, eventually, they will all make something
wonderful.” There’s great wisdom in the words of that grandma. Putting things in perspective, seeing a bigger picture, can make a world of difference. Zooming out from all the individual tasks I did during the holidays, I could see a much different picture. Getting The Leaven done early ensured a few days of rest and relaxation for my staff and me. Celebrating all those Masses meant that I got to see so many people — including visitors from out of town and college students home on Christmas break — to wish a Merry Christmas to in person and to receive their greetings as well. Trips to the post office box meant lots of Christmas cards mixed in with the usual bills and junk mail. Delicious treats and presents flowed my way from parishioners. I was thrilled to gather for a wonderful Christmas meal with my cousins in Lenexa, followed a few days later by a
delightful gathering with even more local cousins, where the stories and laughter seemed nonstop. Although I enjoy preaching, it was a blessing to have my deacon take the homily on Holy Family weekend. And the funeral on the first Saturday of the new year was a time to celebrate the life of a man who lived a long and fulfilling life and to comfort his family by reminding them that he was now “home for the holidays” — and all days — with the Lord. And I can’t forget the fantastic meal out with my priest prayer group before we closed out 2025. I’m the youngest member — a fact I rarely pass up reminding them of — but am so humbled and inspired by their friendship and many years of dedication to priestly service. So, how did I answer people when they asked about my holiday season? What else could I say but, “It was truly delightful! I felt blessed — over and over again!”
This Sunday, we celebrate our own baptisms as well
ur liturgies carry us to Christ; our worship becomes an encounter. What we adore is revealed in sacrament, revealing our intimate God, the God who draws near, who touches us — again, in sacrament. What I am talking about is what we celebrate this Sunday: the baptism of the Lord. Our Advent longing and our Christmas adoration draw now to a close, and they culminate in this sacramental moment, the baptism of Jesus. In Advent, we sought him; at Christmas, we adored him; on the feast of the Holy Family, we contemplated him; at Epiphany, we paid him homage as
FATHER JOSHUA J. WHITFIELD Father Joshua J. Whitfield is pastor of St. Rita Catholic Community in Dallas and author of “The Crisis of Bad Preaching” and other books.
Lord of all. This Sunday, we celebrate the simple yet marvelous fact
that the Christ born at Christmas is the same Christ who submitted to baptism “to fulfill all righteousness” (Mt 3:15). This is the baptism we know, our baptism into Christ Jesus, into his death, so that we can be raised from the dead like him, that “we too might walk in newness of life” (Rom 6:3-4). I am, of course, coming at this backwards. I am trying to describe what happens in the liturgical mystery at Christmas. Christ is born for us in mystery; we encounter him in mystery; the name of that encounter is baptism. And that is how we are born into Christ, how we become Christians; it’s how it is
no longer we but Christ who lives in us (Gal 2:20). Which brings us to this passage from Matthew, his account of Jesus’ baptism. In it is revealed just who this Jesus is and what he intends to do. In it thus is revealed also something about who we are and what we are to do since by baptism we are now in Christ. Coming out of the water, the “heavens were opened for him” and the Spirit falls upon Jesus; in his baptism, earth and heaven are joined; the divine and the created come together (Mt 3:16). Just think what this says about your own baptism, how it opens heaven!
Recalling Christ’s baptism, we should recall ours. Understanding Christ’s identity, we should understand ours. Seeing Christ’s battle against the devil and his sacrifice, we should see ours. Doesn’t it seem that in the feast of the Baptism of Jesus we begin to turn from Bethlehem to Jerusalem, from the crèche to Calvary? What are we to do with the Christmas we just celebrated but to make our way into the desert, to prepare ourselves, to strengthen ourselves to take up our cross and follow? Because, of course, baptized into Christ, his life is now ours.
New year marks time to usher in era of peace, friendship, pope says VATICAN CITY (CNS) — The world is not saved by threatening violence or by judging, oppressing or getting rid of others, Pope Leo XIV said. “Rather, it is saved by tirelessly striving to understand, forgive, liberate and welcome everyone, without calculation and without fear,” the pope said during Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica for the solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, and World Peace Day Jan. 1. Therefore, at the beginning of
a new year with “new and unique days that await us, let us ask the Lord to help us experience at every moment, around us and upon us, the warmth of his fatherly embrace and the light of his benevolent gaze,” he said in his homily. The Mass marked the 59th World Day of Peace celebrated by the church. The pope’s message for the world day was dedicated to the humble, “unarmed and disarming” peace of the risen Christ who loves
unconditionally. By being born of Mary in a grotto, he said, “God presents himself to us ‘unarmed and disarming,’ as naked and defenseless as a newborn in a cradle.” “He does this to teach us that the world is not saved by sharpening swords, nor by judging, oppressing or eliminating our brothers and sisters,” he said. Rather, the world is saved by seeking to understand, forgive, free and welcome everyone with love.
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Deacons are at the forefront of a pilgrim church on the move
have long pondered the “creative tension” in the deacon’s identity. The deacon shares in some respects in the life of priests, and yet he also shares in the life of the laity, with whom he lives and works in the world. Deacon James Keating therefore quips that a deacon is a man with a foot in both worlds, “a cleric living a lay life.” This reality certainly can be misunderstood. Sometimes when we speak of someone with a foot in both worlds, we’re implying that they’re wishy-washy or unsure about which “world” they belong in.
ORDAINED TO SERVE
DEACON LEON SUPRENANT Deacon Leon Suprenant is the co-director of the office of the permanent diaconate. He may be reached at: leons@archkck.org.
Maybe it calls to mind a strange, hybrid character who is part
cleric and part layperson. Or perhaps the deacon is a superhero — a mild-mannered accountant who ducks into the phone booth (or rather, sacristy) and becomes “super deacon” on Sunday! Sometimes, instead of saying that someone has a “foot in both
worlds,” we say that someone has a “foot in both camps.” This expression presupposes that the “two worlds” are competing entities — church versus world, or even hierarchy versus laity. In this polarized reality, the deacon is then some sort of schizophrenic double agent who plays both sides of the fence, and not an instrument of peace. Nothing can be further from the truth. Far from being an instrument of division, the deacon is ordained to be a bridge for hurting people to receive the mercy and healing of the church. The deacon is truly
the hands (and feet!) of the bishop but, at the same time, a relatable brother in the Lord for the lay faithful. With apologies to St. Augustine, the deacon can truly say to his community: “For you, I am a deacon; with you (and at the same time), I am a Christian.” In a synodal, missionary church, deacons serve as key “ligaments,” connecting shepherds with their flock, and the church with the world — especially the poor and marginalized. Deacons receive no unique “superpowers” at ordination, but instead their charism is to foster connectivity
(what we call “communion”) within the church. In particular, they walk with lay people as they fully participate as missionary disciples in the world. We see this dynamic at work in the dismissal at Mass. The deacon is the spokesperson for the church, commissioning the faithful to go forth in peace, to infuse the world with Christian charity. But his role doesn’t end there. The deacon then accompanies the faithful out the door, at the forefront of the pilgrim church on the move, bringing faith to life in Christian service.
Topeka event invites all to prayer, work for protection of the unborn
T
his weekend, the Christmas season officially ends on the feast of the Baptism of the Lord. I love that we get to linger in the goodness and joy of the Nativity narratives for so long, especially as we prepare for IGNITE for Life and the Kansas March for Life on Jan. 28 in Topeka. These Gospel stories reveal how we should respond to new life: from Mary’s trust in the Annunciation, to the joy and support of the Visitation, to St. Joseph’s protection of Mary and Jesus in her womb. The birth of our Savior tenderly illustrates the humanity and dignity of all
LIFE MATTERS
DEBRA NIESEN Debra Niesen is the archdiocesan consultant for the pro-life office.
unborn children, as God created us all in his own image. While every pregnancy should be greeted with joy and
awe, the reality is that many women face a new pregnancy with fear, vulnerability and significant challenges. As Catholics, our response should be to provide the love, encouragement and support they deserve. Still too many expectant women don’t experience this
support, and our culture instead pushes abortion on them as the only solution. However, abortion never solves anything and only makes challenges worse by intentionally ending a life of a child and harming women emotionally, physically and spiritually. IGNITE for Life and the Kansas March for Life take place in January to recognize the National Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children and to remember the millions of lives lost and harmed through abortion. Tragically, Kansas has become an abortion-destination state, and the number
of abortions has more than tripled in the past few years. We must do better. All are invited to join us at IGNITE to pray for the protection of unborn children and expectant women. Through inspirational speakers, live music, an engaging ministry fair and the celebration of Mass with the bishops of Kansas, attendees will reflect on the sanctity of life from the moment of conception and leave knowing that we, the church, are called to defend all life and help support women and families facing challenging pregnancies. Inspired by the plans that God had for
“Let us show you the many options available when you prearrange your funeral services.”
Mary, an unmarried woman who was unexpectedly pregnant, for Jesus, the child in her womb, and for Joseph, the man who could either reject or protect them, the theme at IGNITE this year is: “For I know the plans I have for you” (Jer 29:11). A great lineup of speakers including Father Luke Doyle and keynote David Bereit, founder of 40 Days for Life, will help us to reflect on this theme and God’s promise of plans “for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope” (Jer 29:11). For more information on IGNITE and to register, go online to: archkck.org/ignite.
SOLUTION
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LOCAL NEWS 16
JANUARY 9, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
Cancer victim fought back with faith, fundraising By Jeanne Gorman Special to The Leaven
O
VERLAND PARK — As he neared retirement, Terry Scanlon was looking forward to stepping away from his work in Osawatomie and spending more time with wife Kelly and the rest of his family. Scanlon had served in city administration in nearby Mission and Osawatomie, as well as in Basalt, Colorado. But the Scanlons were longtime members of — and had raised their children in — Queen of the Holy Rosary in Overland Park. They looked forward to returning to the many church activities they had been involved in there and their large network of friends. That was before Scanlon began experiencing a variety of unexplained symptoms. He wound up returning to Overland Park and Queen with a diagnosis of Stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer. *** Scanlon’s journey to a definitive diagnosis was long and challenging. In the fall of 2023, he developed a bad cough that wouldn’t go away and was diagnosed with various things like allergies — not cancer. Around the holidays, his back began hurting and continued to get worse. In January 2024, he had a chest X-ray and was diagnosed with pneumonia. In January and February of that year, Scanlon begged for as much pain medication as his provider would prescribe. The pain was so intense, he could hardly get out of bed. He was sent to physical therapy. Nothing seemed to help. Scanlon turned to prayer, praying Hail Marys to get his mind off the pain. When he still did not improve, he was given an MRI in March, which showed he had Stage 4 metastatic non-small cell lung cancer. Kelly Scanlon, likewise, had to let go and trust God. Accustomed to being able to
COURTESY PHOTO
On Oct. 2, Terry Scanlon, a member of Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish in Overland Park, was well into biking 706 miles of the Kansas trail system to raise money for cancer research. Here he poses by the Pony Express statue along the Blue River Trail in Marysville. In 2024, Scanlon was diagnosed with Stage 4 metastatic non-small cell lung cancer. The cancer is now in remission. handle almost anything, now her husband’s very life was in the hands of his medical team and God. Fortunately, tests determined that her husband had a biomarker that qualified him to receive treatment
approved by the Food and Drug Administration based on a clinical trial just three months before his treatment began. This biomarker-targeted therapy consisted of one pill a day for the rest of his life. No
radiation or chemotherapy was required. Thusfar, it has been a resounding success. Scanlon has suffered no side effects from the new medication. And whereas before receiving this treatment, he felt he was dying, within a
week of starting treatment, he felt better. Thankfully, the treatment was so successful that Terry was found NED (no evidence of disease, aka, in remission) in April 2025. While undergoing treatment, Scanlon realized that this lifesaving treatment was the work of extensive — and expensive — medical research. Although lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the country, it has the least research funding. The Scanlons set out to change that, as well as to raise funds for the Kansas Trails system as Terry was an avid bike rider. He was also motivated by the Athenian oath he had tried to follow during his years of city administration — to basically leave things better than he found them. In short, he wanted to fund the kind of research that had helped him “for the people who come after me.” Toward that end, the Scanlons set up a GoFundMe page to support these goals and Terry committed to ride 706 miles of the Kansas Trails system, which he completed at the trails end in the Flint Hills Trail State Park in October. About $50,000 has been raised thusfar, and the Scanlons are committed to keep fundraising into this new year. In recognition of his efforts, Terry has been invited to go to Washington, D.C., in March to lobby for federal funding for lung cancer research. Kelly sees their journey as an attempt to put faith into action, and the Scanlons hope sharing it will encourage others facing a lung cancer diagnosis. As they work to promote even further research, they hope their story serves not only a witness to the power of modern medicine, but as an act of appreciation for all those who work and sacrifice to advance cancer cures. For more information about Terry Scanlon’s story, go online to: www.gofundme.com/f/ridefor-resilience-r4r-help-us-makea-difference.