New assignments announced
Father John A. Riley, chancellor, announces the following appointments made by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, effective July 1 unless otherwise noted:
Pastors
Father Mohana Rao Bathinen, from pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Olpe and St. Mary Parish, Hartford, to pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Wathena, St. Benedict Parish in Bendena and St. Charles Parish, Troy.
Father Nicholas Blaha, from pastor of Blessed Sacrament Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, and Christ the King Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, to continuing as pastor of Blessed Sacrament Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, and providing parttime sacramental assistance and campus ministry at Donnelly College, Kansas City, Kansas.
Father Keith Chadwick, from parochial vicar for Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa, and chaplain of St. James Academy, Lenexa, to pastor of Christ the King Parish, Kansas City, Kansas.
Father Michael Guastello, from pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Wathena, St. Benedict Parish in Bendena and St. Charles Parish, Troy, to pastor of St. Matthew Parish, Topeka.
Father Thomas Maddock, from parochial vicar for Christ the King Parish, Topeka, and chaplain of Hayden High School, Topeka, to pastor of Holy Angels Parish in Garnett and St. John the Baptist Parish, Greeley.
Father Anthony Mersmann, from parochial vicar for Good Shepherd Parish, Shawnee, and chaplain of Bishop Miege High School, Roeland Park, to pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Olpe and St. Mary Parish, Hartford.
Father Mark Ostrowski, from parochial vicar for St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, to pastor of Holy Name of Jesus Parish, Kansas City, Kansas.
Father Anthony Ouellette, from pastor of Holy Name of Jesus Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, to pastor of Christ the King Parish, Topeka.
Father John Torrez, from pastor of St. Matthew Parish, Topeka, to pastor of Immaculate Conception Parish, Louisburg.
Parochial vicars
Father Maclean Aaku, from chaplain of Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, to continuing as parochial vicar for Curé of Ars Parish, Leawood, and studies at Rockhurst University in Kansas City, Missouri.
Father Jude Anin-Agyei, from parochial vicar for Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa, to parochial vicar for Church of the Ascension Parish, Overland Park.
Father Joseph Asante (Archdiocese of Kumasi, Ghana), from priestly ministry outside of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas to parochial vicar for Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Shawnee.
Deacon Will Carey, from completion of
seminary formation and ordination to the priesthood of Jesus Christ, to parochial vicar for Christ the King Parish, Topeka, and chaplain of Hayden High School, Topeka.
Father Wilson Garnica Rodriguez, from parochial vicar for Blessed Sacrament Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, to parochial vicar for Good Shepherd Parish, Shawnee.
Father Donato Garza Pacheco, from parochial vicar for Our Lady of Unity Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, to parochial vicar for Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, Topeka, effective June 1.
Deacon Cesar Gomez, from completion of seminary formation and ordination to the priesthood of Jesus Christ, to parochial vicar for Our Lady of Unity Parish in Kansas City, Kansas.
Deacon Daniel Mauro, from completion of seminary formation and ordination to the priesthood of Jesus Christ, to parochial vicar for Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa, and chaplain of St. James Academy, Lenexa.
Father Matthew Schiffelbein, from pastor of Christ the King Parish, Topeka,
to
parochial vicar for Holy Spirit Parish, Overland Park.
Father Andrew Strobl, from parochial vicar for Curé of Ars Parish, Leawood, to parochial vicar for Church of the Nativity Parish, Leawood, and chaplain of Bishop Miege High School, Roeland Park.
Father Brent Stull, from parochial vicar for Church of the Ascension Parish, Overland Park, to parochial vicar for St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.
Father Mohana Rao Bathinen
Father Nicholas Blaha
Father Keith Chadwick
Father Mark Ostrowski
Father Wilson Garnica Rodriguez
Msgr. Thomas Tank
Father David McEvoy, O.Carm.
Father Thomas Maddock
Father John Torrez
Deacon Daniel Mauro
Father Gregory Hammes
Father Luke Doyle
Father Jude Anin-Agyei
Father Andrew Strobl
Father Francis Hund
Deacon Nicolaas tenBroek
Father Michael Guastello
Father Anthony Ouellette
Deacon Cesar Gomez
Father Gerald William, O.Carm.
Father Nicholas Ashmore
Father Anthony Mersmann
Father Maclean Aaku
Father Matthew Schiffelbein
Father Joel Haug
Deacon Jody Madden
Deacon Will Carey
Father Brent Stull
Father Sudeep Kodigandla
Deacon Charles Welte
Urge our leaders to welcome refugees, allow legal immigration
Trump’s pope photo offensive
President Trump masquerading as the pope on social media was an offensive, ill-advised and flawed attempt at humor. This trivialization of the importance of the papacy was disrespectful to more than one billion Catholics worldwide and especially to millions of U.S. Catholics. I hope that before this column is published, the president has apologized to the Catholic community. Nevertheless, Catholics need to work with the current administration for just and humane treatment of undocumented immigrants. One practical way the president could demonstrate remorse for this social blunder is to take seriously the moral concerns of Catholics and many people of good will about his plans for mass deportations. I urge the president to give serious consideration to my suggestions on a just and humane way to address the issue of immigration reform.
In early February, I wrote an article commending President Trump and his administration for their efforts to deport gang and cartel members, individuals with serious criminal histories, dealers of illegal drugs and individuals engaged with human trafficking. I was criticized by some who oppose anything associated with the current administration.
I also wrote that if the Trump administration was successful in closing the border from illegal entry, this could provide an opportunity for humane and prudent solutions for the vast majority of undocumented immigrants who are not members of gangs or cartels, who are not involved with smuggling of drugs or human trafficking and who have no other criminal history. All of the data shows the administration has been
LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS
ARCHBISHOP
JOSEPH F. NAUMANN
remarkably successful in closing the border.
In his address to a joint session of Congress, Trump acknowledged this success by chiding the previous administration’s claim that new legislation was necessary to protect our border, when new leadership was all that was needed. I urge and plead with President Trump and his advisers to take advantage of this opportunity to solve the illegal immigration problem that has plagued our nation for decades. I continue to applaud the efforts of the current administration to deport those bad actors who have entered our country illegally with evil intentions to give cartels and gangs control of many of our poorest neighborhoods, to addict young people to drugs and to enslave to a life of misery our most vulnerable youth through the incredible evil of human trafficking.
Many, if not most, of undocumented immigrants were enticed and encouraged to enter the United States because of the irresponsibly lax border polices of previous administrations. These immigrants were motivated, like so many of our ancestors, to take advantage of the opportunity to provide better lives for their families. They only desired the American dream, the freedoms and the opportunities for success that our country affords those willing to work hard and respect the rights of others.
One of our priests shared with me an anecdote of ICE agents conducting a raid in one of the parish’s poorest neighborhoods. They arrested
undocumented immigrants who operated a notorious drug house. The neighborhood was grateful that ICE had removed this criminal and societal cancer that afflicted their community. Though there were many undocumented neighbors, who are hardworking and productive members of the community, the ICE agents left them undisturbed.
Unfortunately, the birth rates in the United States are below replacement level. This is a death sentence for a culture. Many U.S. citizens are choosing to have pets instead of children. Without our immigrant families, the data would be even worse for the future of our nation.
The United States is far from a perfect society. In our history, slavery and racism have scarred the soul of our nation. Many young people who were born in the United States and enjoy the privileges of citizenship have been taught to despise our country. It is immigrants that have historically renewed our nation because they appreciate the many strengths of the American experiment, despite our historical and current flaws.
The administration has received significant opposition in its efforts to deport even cartel and gang members. They are currently engaged in numerous court battles. I encourage the administration to keep their attention focused on deporting those undocumented with serious criminal histories.
For those undocumented immigrants who are here because they cherish the freedoms we enjoy and the opportunities for economic improvement for those willing to work hard, let us
strive to find ways that are both just and merciful. In fairness to those who patiently waited to enter the United States legally, this could mean that citizenship is not possible for those that entered without proper documentation, but a type of legal status is granted permitting them to continue to work in the United States. They would not qualify for privileges that citizens enjoy, but they would not have to live in the shadows where they can be exploited and live under a cloud of uncertainty and vulnerability.
Mass deportations of noncriminals will result in societal chaos and losing the support of many Americans. Most Americans support deportation of undocumented immigrants who violate our laws and harm both citizens and noncitizens.
Keep the border secure and clearly warn those who enter the United States in the future illegally that they will be deported. The president has already expressed an openness to granting legal status to Dreamers — those brought to this country as children. Historically, our country has been generous with legal immigration policies that are available not just for the wealthy or those with particular professional skills. With appropriate security checks, we can be generous in welcoming authentic refugees fleeing oppression in their homeland as well as some of the world’s poor. It is our immigrant ancestors who helped to build American culture and society. Our new immigrants will help to preserve and sustain our nation.
I encourage members of the archdiocese to write the president, our Kansas U.S. senators and members of Congress urging them to support policies that deport bad actors, while opposing mass deportations that will create a new form of societal chaos. I am confident that our elected leaders have the wisdom and creativity to develop pathways for a type of legal status, short of
May 10
ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN’S CALENDAR
Donnelly College Commencement — Kansas City, Kansas
Foster Care Mass and dinner — Prince of Peace, Olathe
May 12
“Shepherd’s Voice” recording
Vespers and dinner with priests — Holy Trinity, Lenexa
May 13
Lansing Correctional Facility Donnelly graduation
Confirmation — Christ the King, Kansas City, Kansas
May 14
Confirmation — Sacred Heart, Emporia
May 15
Annual Catholic Community Health Board meeting — Savior Pastoral Center
CFNEK board advance — Savior
Confirmation — All Saints, Kansas City, Kansas
May 16
Benedictine Baccalaureate Mass — Abbey Church, Atchison
May 17
Transitional diaconate ordination — cathedral
Mass with KU medical graduates — St. Mary-St. Anthony, Kansas City, Kansas
May 18
Mass of thanksgiving for Archbishop Naumann — Church of the Ascension, Overland Park
Baptism of third or more child — cathedral
May 19
Confirmation of Queen of the Holy Rosary, Overland Park, and St. Pius X, Mission — Queen of the Holy Rosary
citizenship, for those who entered in the past illegally but have and are contributing to the well-being of our society. They actually will help renew our country.
Please also encourage our lawmakers to enact policies that are generous in providing opportunities for welcoming refugees and allowing for legal and orderly immigration. I challenge the administration to draft one big, beautiful bill that will begin to end our country’s illegal immigration problem.
President Trump has
At the time this Leaven went to print, the conclave was just starting. By the time you read this, we could have a new pope. Follow The Leaven’s social media for updates on the conclave and see next week’s Leaven for the latest on the papal election.
created an opportunity to provide real solutions to illegal immigration that will be good not only for immigrants but also for American society. Deport the bad actors, keep our border secure and make the American dream a possibility for those already in our country and for those who yearn in the future to contribute their energy, talents and virtues to our society. We have a unique opportunity at this moment to do something good for our nation by fulfilling the Gospel mandate to welcome the stranger.
KNUCKLING DOWN ON BASEBALL
Nativity parishioner carried faith with him to the big leagues in the 1960s
By Jan Dixon Special to The Leaven
LEAWOOD — What did Babe Ruth, Joe DiMaggio, Gil Hodges, Roger Maris, Hank Aaron and Mike Sweeney all have in common? Their Catholic faith and careers in baseball.
Fred Kipp, parishioner at Church of the Nativity in Leawood, shares that connection. From small-town baseball to the big leagues, a Catholic kid from Kansas took his faith on the road in search of a baseball career.
While growing up in Piqua, Kipp lived directly across the road from St. Martin Church, where he regularly attended Mass and received instruction from the Precious Blood Sisters.
In those days, in small-town America, baseball was a passion of both the old and young alike.
“I started playing around the age of four,” said Kipp. “When the weather was bad, we played in an empty railroad box car with a rubber ball.”
After playing sports in high school, he landed a basketball scholarship at Kansas State University in Manhattan and was coached by the legendary Tex Winter. Following his freshman year at KSU, Kipp transferred to Emporia State University, then known as Kansas State Teachers College, so he could play both basketball and baseball.
In addition to sports and classes, Kipp worked as a groundskeeper for the local country club. There were constants in Kipp’s life up to that point: his determination and his faith.
“I majored in education and math, because math was easier for me than PE,” said Kipp. “And I always went to Mass.”
Following graduation, Kipp was drafted into the army as the Korean War was winding down. His unit had to march 90 miles from Fort Rucker in Alabama to Fort Benning in Georgia. But Kipp missed the march by volunteering to go on ahead in order to play baseball.
He served for 21 months and was honorably discharged. And his professional baseball career began in earnest
when he started playing semipro ball in Kansas, South Dakota and Nebraska. Kipp made it to the minor leagues and played in various cities across the country and in Cuba, Japan, Venezuela, the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. According to Wikipedia, Kipp was known as a “knuckleball artist.”
No matter where the team was playing, Kipp found the nearest Catholic Church. Usually about a third of the team was Catholic, he said, and attended
Mass together on Sundays. Once in Columbus, Ohio, for a series of games, one of the guys said, “Let’s all go up to the cathedral for confessions.” And they went.
“It was a Catholic brotherhood. And we practiced our faith together,” he said.
Through hard work, determination and faith, he finally played for the Brooklyn Dodgers at Ebbets Field and then the Dodgers at the Los Angeles Colosseum. In 1960, Kipp played one
FRED KIPP’S CAREER
Pitcher
Born: Oct. 1, 1931
Batted: Left Threw: Left
MLB DEBUT Sept. 10, 1957, for the Brooklyn Dodgers LAST MLB APPEARANCE
May 8, 1960, for the New York Yankees
MLB STATISTICS
Win-loss record 6-7
Earned run average 5.08
Strikeouts 64
season for the New York Yankees. He did not pitch well and was sent back down to the minors. Kipp decided it was time to trade his sweat socks for a briefcase and start a business career.
With a degree in mathematics and demonstrated perseverance, he landed a position first with an insurance company and then in the construction business. His strong faith kept him active in the church.
Kipp married in 1961 and raised six
>> See “FAITH” on page 16
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAN DIXON
Fred Kipp, parishioner at Church of the Nativity in Leawood, demonstrates the classic knuckleball grip that helped him get to the major leagues with the Dodgers and Yankees.
Couple says years of reporting enriches their Catholic faith
By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org
TOPEKA — “We have done everything from learning how the nuns at Conception (Missouri) made the altar bread, to covering the Eucharistic Congress,” said Julie Anderson. “We’ve covered the March for Life several times, and so many different things.”
Julie and her husband Marc are freelancers for The Leaven newspaper. On Divine Mercy Sunday, April 27, they celebrated 25 years of reporting on our archdiocese.
“I think what’s interesting to us is we get to be a part of so many events and meet so many people,” Julie said. “And it makes our life so much richer.
“We get to see the universal church in action and the many different ways the Holy Spirit showers gifts on people.”
The Leaven’s managing editor Anita McSorley appreciates the couple’s expertise.
“Marc and Julie have deep roots in the Catholic faith,” she said. “But they never hesitate to leap at the chance to learn more.
“I can’t count the number of times they have thanked me after turning a story in for giving them the opportunity to learn more about a particular devotion, parish or ministry.”
Two for the road
The Andersons work as a team. Julie, with a degree in mass media, does the bulk of the interviewing and writing. Marc is the photographer and editor.
Saint Thérèse of Lisieux is their inspiration. A favorite quote from the Little Flower that guides their work is:
“Before taking up my pen, I knelt before the statue of Mary . . . and I begged her to guide my hand that it trace no line displeasing to her.”
“A lot of times on our big stories,” said Julie, “we have written a draft and then sat it in front of Saint Thérèse, Saint Joseph, the Blessed Mother and Jesus in our living room and let them work on it for a few days.
“We say, ‘Here, it’s yours. Tell us what to do with it.”
The method works. The Andersons have won several Catholic Press awards. But the most surprising aspect of their success is that, in addition to freelancing, each has a full-time job.
That means evenings and weekend and lunch hours are often spent attending Catholic events, doing interviews, fine-tuning drafts and taking photographs.
On several occasions, the couple has been double-booked. Marc has dropped
COURTESY OF MARC AND JULIE ANDERSON
Julie and Marc Anderson, freelancers for the Leaven for 25 years, celebrated their anniversary of writing articles and taking photos for the newspaper on Divine Mercy Sunday, April 27. The couple has a devotion of more than 30 years to St. Thérèse of Lisieux, whose centenary of canonization is May 17. Julie was born on the saint’s feast day, Oct. 1, in the centenary year of St. Thérèse’s birth, 1973, and often relies on the saint’s intercession for assistance. The statue displayed here is in the couple’s living room.
off Julie to cover one event while he’s gone to cover another event at the same time.
Again, prayer is their ticket to success.
“We pray a lot and ask God to multiply our time,” said Marc. “It’s amazing how he does that and we’re able to get both jobs done well.”
It amazes Leaven editor Father Mark Goldasich, too.
“Freelancing is very challenging, especially when you are doing it on top of a full-time job,” he said. “I think what makes Marc and Julie Anderson so unusual is that theirs is a partnership.
“Their skills complement each other, and they are able to tackle even the biggest projects head-on, because they’re doing it together. “
Being Topeka natives is also a plus.
“It helps that they have lived and worked in Topeka so long,” said McSorley. “And they seem to have family
favorite states to visit were Alaska and Hawaii.
The Andersons are also dedicated to their families, including several nieces and nephews.
Sadly, they buried their only child, infant William Anderson, in 1997.
“People are like, ‘How do you do all this?’” said Julie. “Well, a lot of people have children and grandchildren on earth.
“That is not our life. Our life is that our baby is in heaven and so we have all this time and all this love that we have to channel somewhere.”
The couple still celebrates the anniversary of William’s short life each year in a very special way.
“We always spend time with each other and honor baby Billy,” said Marc. “We think of how old he would be, and something he would like to do, and we go out and do that.”
Making connections
Their experience losing a child and the fact that they were both born in October 1973, nine months after the Roe v. Wade decision, has greatly influenced the Andersons’ commitment to the prolife movement.
“We were pro-life before, but losing our baby,” said Marc, “that gave us even more incentive.
“Pro-life is our favorite and dear-toour-hearts beat.”
The Andersons attribute their fruitful and lasting relationship to communication and a mutual love for serving God.
“Working our two main jobs and then doing this on the side,” said Marc, “we’ve had to communicate; there’s just no way around that.
everywhere in the archdiocese.
“No matter where I send them, they can hit the ground running because they’ve got the right sources in all the right places.”
Channeling love
Despite all the work, the couple still finds time for fun. They met when they were both 16 and have been together ever since. They’ll celebrate their 29th wedding anniversary in July.
Along with playing board games and watching football, the Andersons love to travel. They made a pact years ago that they would visit all 50 state capitals before they turned 50.
They managed to complete the mission in 2022 when they turned 49.
Their favorite capital building was in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. But their
“We’re both really agreeable on what we need to do.”
Their devotion to St. Thérèse is companion to a devotion to St. Joseph. Marc wears a ring, a gift from Julie, engraved with the words: “To My Saint Joseph.”
“Starting with the year of St. Joseph,” said Marc, “I’ve learned more about him and I’ve tried to emulate him.
“I do everything I can as a husband to make Julie feel safe and protect her as my family.”
They love the Catholic Church and the opportunity The Leaven affords them to see its interconnectedness.
“Only when the veil is lifted at the end of our lives will we see all the connections and all of the influences we had on other people,” said Julie. “And we’ll see how the beautiful tapestry was created.”
PHOTO
BRIDGING THE GAP
Keeping our graduates connected to the faith
Special to The Leaven
KANSAS CITY, Kan. —
As another academic year draws to a close, thousands of Catholic students nationwide prepare for one of life’s most significant transitions: the journey to college. While this milestone brings excitement and opportunity, it also presents unique challenges to maintaining one’s faith. Statistics show that up to 80% of Catholic students drift away from their faith during college years — a sobering reality that the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is actively working to change.
Enter Newman Connection, a national nonprofit organization with an innovative program transforming how the archdiocese supports our young Catholics during their college or military transition. Through a new diocesan partnership with Newman Connection, youth ministers are working to ensure that every graduating high school senior has support for their Catholic faith journey from day one on campus or in the military.
“This isn’t just about maintaining numbers — it’s about souls,” said Kyle Kuckelman, archdiocesan consultant for youth ministry. “We’re creating a bridge between our parishes, schools and college campus ministries that helps our young people stay rooted in their faith during a critical time in their lives.”
The program’s approach is straightforward, yet effective. Working with Catholic high schools and parishes throughout the archdiocese, Newman Connection helps connect graduating seniors directly to Catholic campus ministry at their chosen college or military base — before they even arrive on campus. Since 2009, the organization has successfully connected more than 600,000 students across over 800 college campuses nationwide.
Newman Connection offers peace
How to get involved
Prison ministry seeks volunteers for June retreat
By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
LANSING — Kolbe Prison Ministries (KPM) retreats can transform the lives of men and women who are incarcerated, said Phillip Cockrell, vice president of KPM in Kansas City, Kansas.
“We’ve seen lives changed, men returning to the sacraments, reconciling with family and choosing to live differently going forward,” he said.
KPM is seeking volunteers for its next retreat at the Lansing Correctional Facility for men from June 20-22. It will be the fourth three-day retreat KPM has hosted in a Kansas correctional facility, and 48 men are expected to attend.
“It brings the message of God’s mercy, healing and hope behind the walls through talks, small group discussions, the sacraments and powerful personal witness talks,” said Cockrell.
THIS ISN’T JUST ABOUT MAINTAINING NUMBERS –IT’S ABOUT SOULS.
KYLE KUCKELMAN ARCHDIOCESAN CONSULTANT FOR YOUTH MINISTRY
of mind for parents concerned about their children’s faith journey. Many parents worry about their children maintaining their faith in college; this program provides a concrete way to help ensure their children have immediate access to a Catholic community and the sacraments when they arrive on campus.
The initiative couldn’t be more timely. Recent studies by the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate indicate that young adults often begin distancing themselves from the church before their college years, with over 60% reporting they stopped identifying as Catholic by age 18. However, early connection to campus ministry can help reverse this trend.
• Schools and parishes: Send an email to: kylek@archkck.org to implement the program
• Parents: Ask your parish or school about participating
• Learn more online at: archkck.org/ newman-connections-high-schooloutreach-program/
Participation in the program is free thanks to Newman Connection’s donor-supported model. Schools and parishes simply share graduating seniors’ contact information and college or military destinations, enabling campus ministry teams to reach out and welcome students upon arrival.
Catholic schools, parishes and families interested in participating can contact Kuckelman by email at: kylek@archkck.org for more information. Together, youth ministers hope to keep graduating high school seniors connected to their Catholic faith throughout their college years and beyond.
“We’re aiming for about 30 volunteers to serve in various roles throughout the weekend,” he added, “from giving witness talks, leading small group, serving meals and offering behind-the-scenes support.”
No previous prison ministry experience is required.
KPM is building a team of individuals who will not only serve at the upcoming retreat but future ones at Lansing and the Topeka Correctional Facility for women, said Cockrell. The hope is they will return regularly to support the ongoing faith formation of those who are incarcerated.
Cockrell said the volunteers often walk away changed as much, if not more, than those who are incarcerated.
“It’s a humbling, grace-filled experience to witness the deep hunger these men have for Christ,” he said, “and the courage it takes for them to be vulnerable.
“Serving behind the walls helps us encounter Christ in the poor, the imprisoned and in our own hearts.”
Those who are interested in volunteering at the upcoming retreat or future ones can send an email to: kolbekansas1@ gmail.com. For more information, visit the website at: kolberetreatsinkansas. org.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Kyle Kuckelman, archdiocesan youth ministry consultant, is promoting Newman Connection — youth ministers working to ensure that graduating high school seniors have support for their Catholic faith journey on campus or in the military.
Guest speakers lead parishioners beyond themselves
By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org
MISSION — “I just thought we have a lot of great people at St. Pius, but I don’t think we’re very outward-looking,” said St. Pius X parishioner Cliff O’Bryan.
“And so, I thought we should get some speakers who could come and talk maybe a little outside our comfort zone,” he added.
That thought led to St. Pius X’s Faith Formation Speaker Series. And this March’s speaker, Jill Hanlin from Journey to New Life, definitely took her audience outside its comfort zone.
Hanlin grew up with a mother addicted to substance abuse.
She was 18 when she made the difficult decision, against her parent’s wishes, to carry an unwanted pregnancy to term.
The child was born without kidneys and only lived for 13 hours.
“I lost my mind,” Hanlin told her audience. “I didn’t know how to handle it.”
Hanlin received psychiatric help for a few weeks but still had trouble navigating life after such a trauma.
“And then, someone introduced me to cocaine,” she said. “And that took it all away. For the next 30 years of my life, I struggled with stimulants.
“In those 30 years, it took me to prison seven times.”
Hanlin’s last prison sentence lasted four years. When she got out in 2020, she contacted a program called Journey to New Life and turned her life around.
Eventually, Hanlin returned to Journey to New Life to work as a house manager, a case manager and then in her present position, in community engagement.
She is a powerful advocate for the program that changed her life, and for people who have overcome trauma.
“The main thing I want to do is to get rid of the stigma around people who have been incarcerated, around people who suffer from addictions, suffer with mental health issues,” she said. “We’re
Faith formation programs open to all
Would you like to grow in your faith, step outside your comfort zone and have discussions in a safe, friendly environment?
Anyone is welcome to join St. Pius X Faith Formation programs such as Sunday Book Study, Popcorn with the Pope movie night or the Special Speaker Series. For more information, go online to: spxmission.org or visit the St. Pius X Facebook page.
all human and we’re just trying to live together in this life.”
Journey to New Life is a collaborative, nonprofit organization located at 31st and Troost in Kansas City, Missouri.
It facilitates the empowerment of people reentering society from prison, providing first-stop services, residences, case management and employment
assistance in a safe and supportive environment.
O’Bryan has been involved with Journey to New Life since its inception in 2013.
“One of my ministries is I’m kind of a scrounger for Journey to New Life,” he said. “A lot of people are a little unwilling to go down to 31st and Troost.
“People give me clothing and kitchen items and stuff like that, and I take them down there. I probably go once or twice a month.”
O’Bryan and his wife have been St. Pius X parishioners for almost 11 years.
They saw that the parish had a school of religion for young people and thought there should be something similar for adults.
They started the Faith Formation Group, which now includes a book club, Popcorn with the Pope movie nights and the speaker series.
Pastor Father Gerard Alba who attended Hanlin’s program said that through the speaker series, “we’re trying to give more opportunities for people to grow closer in their faith,
Learn more about Journey to New Life
Ninety-seven percent of people who go to prison get released from prison. When people get out of prison, they usually have a small box of belongings and the clothes on their backs. Then, they’re left to try and fend for themselves.
Journey to New Life is a nonprofit organization that helps formerly incarcerated individuals transition back into society. Its recidivism rate is less than 10%, compared to a national average of 67.8%.
The organization also provides assistance with housing, employment and other needs to support successful reentry.
For more information, go online to: journeytonewlife.org.
their spiritual life, to know about Catholic theology.
“And then, learn about ways that we can become the Lord’s hands and feet in the world.”
O’Bryan loves the diversity within the Faith Formation Group and the welcoming environment created for sharing opinions.
“Book club has really turned into a community,” he said. “When we first started, we had people who didn’t want to talk, but now that we’ve been doing it for a while, people are more willing to express themselves.
“We don’t get mad at each other, but we do have some differing opinions.”
Father Alba agreed.
“We’re different people who have different perspectives and we’re hearing from each another,” he said. “That’s one thing I love about our group.”
“People are coming from all sides and we have a lot of arguments,” he continued. “But it’s a place where people can come, they feel welcome and they can share their voices.
“Speakers like [Hanlin] give us a way to open our hearts beyond our little community.”
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD
Jill Hanlin from Journey to New Life spoke at St. Pius X’s Faith Formation Speaker Series in March. Hanlin talked about her troubled early life that led to drugs and prison and how Journey to New Life turned her life around.
Young adult group holds annual retreat at Prairie Star Ranch
By Amy Reinhardt Special to the Leaven
WILLIAMSBURG — On March 7, dozens of young adults arrived at Prairie Star Ranch here for the annual Undivided retreat.
Hosted by City on a Hill, a grassroots young adult Catholic community in Kansas City, Undivided is a weekend retreat hosted for young adults.
This was the fifth year for the annual retreat. The Encounter Team, led by Kate and Moses Tinio, planned and executed the weekend. The retreat’s content is adapted each year to give the attendees a brand-new experience.
Kate Tinio explained that Undivided was founded with the purpose of helping young adults cultivate a deeply personal and undistracted relationship with God.
Inspiration for the retreat this year came from the Book of Ezekiel: “I will give them an undivided heart and put a new spirit in them” (11:19).
Prairie Star Ranch is the location for this yearly COAH retreat. Moses Tinio said the ranch and its rural setting is perfect for this type of weekend.
“It reinforces the message of the retreat,” he said. “You’re surrounded by nature, with space to think and pray, which makes it easier to step away from distractions and focus on God.”
A lot of prayer went into the flow of the retreat. Under the leadership of the Tinios, a vision was set, a theme was chosen, topics were outlined, logistics were confirmed and small groups were assigned.
Some individuals had attended the retreat in the past. This was Thomas Bagley’s third time. He comes each year, he said, because he needs frequent retreats to keep himself grounded in his pursuit of holiness.
“Undivided really highlights the
Laura and Donnie Vohs, members of Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish, Wea, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on April 27 with a breakfast with their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The couple was married on April 24, 1965, at Queen of the Holy Rosary by Father Frank Schepers. Their children are: Rita, Jana, Dana, Lea, Lenny, Robert and Kevin. They also have 25 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
value of living all aspects of your life for God and giving him all you have,” he said.
On the other end of the spectrum was Sarah Morris. Not only had she not been on the Catholic retreat before — she didn’t even know about City on a Hill.
As someone who was returning to the faith after a period away, Morris wanted to find a Catholic community in Kansas City. After a quick Google search, she found out about Undivided.
Kathy and Don Mayer, members of Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on May 3 at 4 p.m. at Holy Trinity followed by a reception afterward in the parish social room. The couple was married on May 3, 1975, at St. Anthony Church in Columbus, Ohio. Their children are: Laura, Liza and Lynn. They also have five grandchildren.
With a leap of faith, she signed up. And she was thrilled she did.
“It was such a rewarding experience,” she said. “Being recently back to the faith, it was a great jump-start, especially being around young adults who are dedicated to growing.”
The theme of the 2025 Undivided was: “Finding the Way.” While brainstorming words to capture the essence of the weekend, Kate Tinio said the team landed on the word “journey.”
“The idea [is] that faith isn’t just
Stanley and Mary Alice (Niekamp) Schmitz, members of St. Mary Parish, St. Benedict, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary with a cruise on the Columbia River. The couple was married on May 15, 1965, at St. Mary Church by Father Leander Scheier, OSB. Their children are: Harlan, Leroy, Deann and Kimberly (deceased). They also have three grandchildren, two step-grandchildren and one step-great-grandson.
about believing, but embarking on a real journey with God,” Moses Tinio said.
An important part of the weekend was the speakers. All talks aligned with the vision of hope and were equally inspiring and practical. Topics included “Prayer as the Compass,” “Freedom Through Detachment,” “Virtue and Order,” “The Mystery of Suffering” and “Discernment and Your Next Step.”
After listening to each talk, attendees gathered into small groups and shared what they learned. There were a handful of leaders to guide these discussions, including John Lechtenberg.
This was Lechtenberg’s first time at Undivided. He said he prioritizes giving his entire weekend to Christ whenever the opportunity presents itself.
This year, he said he loved the diversity within his small group. Everyone had a unique story and reason for being on the retreat. He said the different perspectives elevated the group’s conversations.
“The retreat is geared to everybody. Those who come with open hearts receive tremendous blessings,” he said. “Wherever you’re at with your faith, come and just receive.”
But while the City on a Hill retreat had plenty of thoughtful presentations and time for reflection, organizers also built in time for fellowship.
During meals and leisure time, attendees mingled and built friendships. Mass and eucharistic adoration (with optional time for the sacrament of reconciliation) gave everyone time to embrace the silence and connect with God. By Sunday lunchtime, cars were loaded and the young adults were departing Prairie Star Ranch, equipped with spiritual clarity and a renewed sense of purpose.
If you’re a young adult or know one searching for Catholic community, visit the website at: www.kansascityonahill. org.
Kenneth and Colette Hermesch, members of St. Bede Parish, Kelly, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on June 22 with family and friends. The couple was married on May 3, 1975, at Sacred Heart Church, Baileyville. Their children are: Emily Hermesch and Erin Summers. They also have four grandchildren.
Bob and Trudy (Andra) Neises, members of Prince of Peace Parish, Olathe, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on May 8. The couple was married on May 8, 1965, at St. Joseph Church, Conway Springs. Their children are: Pamela (Neises) Roberts and Michelle (Neises) Spearman. They also have four grandsons.
Kathleen and Don Clement, members of Church of the Nativity, Leawood, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on May 10 with family and friends at the 5 p.m. Mass at Nativity. The couple was married on May 10, 1975, at All Saints Church, Wichita. Their children are: Christopher and Andrew. They also have four grandchildren.
John and Linda Funk, members of St. Benedict Parish, Atchison, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary with a family dinner on April 26. The couple was married on April 24, 1965, at St. Joseph Church, Atchison. They have four sons: Rick, Randy, Brad and Jamie. They also have eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
ANNIVERSARY SUBMISSIONS
POLICY: The Leaven prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th anniversary notices. DEADLINE: 10 days before the desired publication date.
INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:
• The couple’s names; their parish; the date they were married; church and city where they were married; what they are doing to celebrate; date of the celebration; names of children (no spouses); number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; WHERE TO SUBMIT: Email: todd.habiger@theleaven.org.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY AMY REINHARDT
Young adults gather in the Chapel of St. Kateri Tekakwitha at Prairie Star Ranch for Sunday Mass.
‘I
began to want more and more of God,’ says soon-to-be
By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
Deacon Will Carey’s journey to the priesthood began with hitting rock bottom.
“I passed out behind the wheel of my dad’s car drinking and driving,” he said. “In that darkness, he (God) let me fall there, be in that place.
“I cried out to him from there, and he heard my cry. I saw this little bit of light that was available if I wanted it amid that darkness.”
That experience was ultimately a gift from God, said Deacon Carey.
“My prayer became, ‘Lord, put me on your path, whatever that is,’” he said.
Deacon Carey will be ordained a priest by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann on May 24 at 10:30 a.m. at Church of the Nativity in Leawood.
He was born to Laura and Richard Carey, the oldest of three boys, and grew up in Westwood.
His dad worked for Sprint and eventually American Century Investments before he retired. His mom was a drug representative.
He was baptized Presbyterian, and when he was in high school, his family became Methodists. They went to church on Sundays and prayed before meals.
“But our faith wasn’t talked about or lived out a lot more than that,” he said.
Deacon Carey was molded by the
pressure of growing up in Johnson County.
“Living in a wealthy area was part of my story,” he said, “because I saw people who had a lot, and I had more than enough.
“But the pursuit of Johnson County was like the pursuit of money. So that became my pursuit, too, to live a worldly life.”
Deacon Carey was studying at Johnson County Community College (JUCO) in Overland Park when his accident happened.
“About a year later, I was still at JUCO,” he said. “I had begun to get my life together, get certain people out of my life, bad influences.”
At that time, he met a St. Paul’s Outreach (SPO) missionary.
“I saw something different in him,” said Deacon Carey. “He wasn’t proselytizing me. He wasn’t trying to sell me anything.”
The missionary invited him to a Fan into Flame retreat.
“I went, and I had a really powerful encounter of God’s love for me when they were praying over me,” said Deacon Carey. “I knew the love of the Father after that. It was like I could see in color for the first time.
“I knew that my life was going to be different, but I didn’t know what that meant or what that looked like.”
Deacon Carey transferred to Emporia State University, where he studied accounting and was offered a job with a CPA firm after graduation.
But meeting Father Nick Blaha,
who was the chaplain there at the time, attracted him to the priesthood.
“He was a normal guy — bow hunting deer and driving a Tacoma — but also very intelligent, understood the faith and could teach it, and was trying to live a life of holiness,” said Deacon Carey.
Deacon Carey ultimately turned down the job and served as an SPO missionary at Benedictine College in Atchison instead. He only spent one of his two years there before entering Kenrick Glennon Seminary in St. Louis.
“Profound moments of prayer only last a little while,” said Deacon Carey. “I began to want more and more of God.
“And I saw that the priest lives that life, and he gives that to other people.”
Deacon Carey believes God has given him the heart of a priest.
“I saw how it seemed like maybe the way he’s made me is like that of the diocesan priest,” he said, “to interact with people’s lives in many different times and places — baptisms and marriages and death.”
Deacon Carey looks forward to the adventure of the priesthood, beginning with his ordination day.
“It’s a really profound experience when all these people from all the parts of your life come to one place,” he said. “It’s kind of like heaven.
“You’re seeing all these people again for the first time in one place, and they’re there for you. It’s really amazing.”
Vocation at first baffled his parents, but now they see God’s
By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
Deacon Cesar Gomez isn’t one to say “no” when he hears God calling.
He was just 5 years old when he first felt drawn to the priesthood and never closed the door on the idea — even when, 15 years later, it called him to leave his home in Mexico and move to the United States without knowing English.
The opportunity to attend seminary for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas was stronger than his apprehensions.
“In my heart, I knew that I wanted to be a priest,” he said.
Deacon Gomez will be ordained a priest by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann on May 24 at 10:30 a.m. at Church of the Nativity in Leawood.
He is the youngest of four children of Bertha and Rafael Gomez and grew up in Puruandiro, Michoacan, Mexico.
His mom stayed home raising the children, and his dad has worked in the United States as a permanent resident since the 1980s.
Although his parents didn’t practice their Catholic faith, Deacon Gomez was attracted to it from early on.
His first memory is being confirmed at 3 years old, which was common in Mexico at the time.
“I think that God gave me many sacramental graces because of that,” he said.
At age 13, he got involved in a youth group called Oasis.
“I remember that the priest who was in charge of that youth group, he was very influential to me,” said Deacon Gomez, “because he was very dynamic; he had a
lot of energy, he was very young.”
When he was 15, Deacon Gomez shared his interest in becoming a priest with his parents, who were baffled by the idea.
“They even said, ‘Where did it come from, because we are not very Catholic? We are not practicing the faith,’” he said. “They were supportive, but they were doubting about my call.”
Deacon Gomez had some doubts about the priesthood, but at 17, his best friend invited him to a weekend retreat, where he had “a conversion experience.”
“It was before the Blessed Sacrament,” he said. “I think that experience lasted for about 30 seconds.”
He was inspired to go to the sacrament
of reconciliation.
“And after the retreat, I started to go to daily Mass, to pray the rosary, to read the Bible, to be more active, to actually live out my Catholic faith,” he said.
Deacon Gomez had planned to study chemistry or biology after high school, but that dream no longer gave him a sense of fulfillment.
Instead, he joined a religious community in Mexico until one day, his dad told him he was being accepted as a permanent U.S. resident. He had applied on behalf of his son without his knowledge.
“During that time, I was consecrating myself to the Blessed Virgin Mary,” said Deacon Gomez. “And I wasn’t sure if I
was supposed to come to the U.S. or not.”
Deacon Gomez took a leap of faith and said “yes.” But he didn’t yet have a plan in place when his dad met a group of religious Sisters while grocery shopping at a Walmart in Leavenworth.
They put him in touch with the archdiocesan vocations office, who invited Deacon Gomez to come to northeast Kansas.
He spent his first few months in the archdiocese at Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, learning to speak English.
He was then sent to Conception Seminary College in Conception, Missouri, where he was part of a language, culture and church program, and went to college at Conception before moving on to Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in St. Louis.
Deacon Gomez became a U.S. citizen on Sept. 14, 2023. The welcome he’s received in the archdiocese has made the transition away from home easier.
“I have met a lot of good people here — a lot of good people who have helped me throughout these years of priestly formation,” he said.
And after many prayers, his parents are coming around to the faith.
“My dad hadn’t gone to confession for more than 30 years,” said Deacon Gomez. “And just before my diaconate ordination, my dad went to confession.”
His mom now attends Sunday Mass and occasionally eucharistic adoration.
“I can see how God is working in my family, in my life,” said Deacon Gomez.
When he faces challenges, Deacon Gomez is carried by “my faith, my prayer life and just knowing that I am doing God’s will.”
LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE
Deacon Will Carey proclaims the Gospel at the 2025 Chrism Mass at Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kansas. He will be ordained a priest on May 24.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Deacon Cesar Gomez felt called to the priesthood at a young age. A native of Mexico, Gomez came to the United States in his 20s without knowing English. He learned the language at Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, and Conception Seminary College in Conception, Missouri.
Deacon Will Carey
• Age: 33
• Born: Jan. 28, 1992
• Raised: Westwood
• Home parish: St. Agnes, Roeland Park
• Parents: Richard and Laura Carey
• Siblings: Christopher and Spencer
• Education: Shawnee Mission East High School, Emporia State University
• Favorite food: Kale
• Least favorite food: None
• My favorite activity as a child was: riding my bike.
• Best job I’ve ever had: Working at a golf course
• The quality I admire most in people is: courage.
• Favorite musical artist: James Taylor
• Aside from Christ and his mother, the biblical character I most want to know more about is: John because he spent so much time with the Blessed Mother after the Resurrection.
• Favorite Scripture passage: “Remain in me and I in you. . . I am the vine you are the branches” (Jn 15:4-5)
• I deal with failure by: processing it with other people.
• If I have an important decision to make, I start by: going to the chapel to speak with God about it.
• When I wind up with free time and have no plans, I usually: play the guitar. My favorite type of social event to attend is a: wedding reception.
The one thing I’ve always wanted to do but never tried: Wingsuit base-jumping
• If I hadn’t felt called to become a priest, my dream job would have been: a singer/songwriter.
God’s handiwork
Deacon Cesar Omar Gomez Cervantes
• Age: 31 years old
• Born: Puruandiro, Michoacan, Mexico
• Raised: Puruandiro, Michoacan, Mexico
• Home parish: Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle in Kansas City, Kansas
• Parents: Bertha and Rafael Gomez
• Siblings: Nalleli, Aaron, Rafael
• Favorite food: barbecue
• Least favorite food: pickles
• My favorite activity as a child was: playing volleyball
• Best job I’ve ever had: Totus Tuus
• The quality I admire most in people is: honesty.
• Favorite musical artist: Miguel Bernal Jimenez (composer of sacred music)
• Aside from Christ and his mother, the biblical character I most want to know more about is: St. John because I love his Gospel.
• Favorite Scripture passage: “When Jesus had taken the wine, he said, ‘It is finished.’ Then he bowed his head and gave up his spirit” (Jn 19:30).
• I deal with failure by:
1. Pray about it; 2. Go for ice cream; 3. Move on
• If I have an important decision to make, I start by: clarifying the decision itself and putting everything in God’s hands.
• When I wind up with free time and have no plans, I usually: read a book or spend time with my friends.
• My favorite type of social event to attend is: birthday parties.
• The one thing I’ve always wanted to do but never tried: Go to the Holy Land
If I hadn’t felt called to become a priest, my dream job would have been: to become a clinical laboratory scientist.
Priesthood a way to share the beauty of faith
By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
The seed for a vocation to the priesthood was planted and nurtured throughout Deacon Daniel Mauro’s early life.
But it was a keynote speech by Father Mike Schmitz at a Fellowship of Catholic University Students SEEK conference during his freshman year of college that solidified the calling.
“He was speaking to the young people very honestly about the state of the faith in our country,” said Deacon Mauro.
Father Schmitz contrasted those who are facing persecution, torture and even death for the Catholic faith in other countries to the many young people in the United States who are willingly fleeing it.
“I was aware of that cultural happening,” said Deacon Mauro. “But in this moment, it really struck me to the heart.
“It was abundantly clear in that moment, as if I heard God say, ‘I want you to be my priest.’ I felt pretty strongly this is what I’m being called to do.”
Deacon Mauro will be ordained a priest by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann on May 24 at 10:30 a.m. at Church of the Nativity in Leawood.
He is the third of four children of Christy and Frank Mauro and grew up in Overland Park, where he attended Holy Spirit School.
Christy practiced nursing until he was born, then stayed home to raise the children, and Frank continues to work in medical sales.
Deacon Mauro grew up attending Mass with his family on Sundays and praying before meals.
He was an altar server under the leadership of Father Richard Storey, who was the pastor at Holy Spirit for most of his grade school years and a role model to him.
“It was clear he wanted to pass on the faith, not just to be a good administrator,” said Deacon Mauro.
Deacon Mauro remembers Father Storey leading the school in eucharistic adoration.
Deacon Daniel Mauro
• Age: 27 (as of May 10)
• Born: May 10, 1998
• Raised: Overland Park
• Home parish: Holy Spirit, Overland Park
• Parents: Frank and Christy Mauro
• Siblings: One sister and two brothers. Their names are Sister Mary of Jesus (SSVM), Jonathan and Sam.
• Education: Holy Spirit, St. James Academy, Benedictine College, St. Louis University, Cardinal Glennon College Seminary, Kenrick Seminary.
• Favorite food: Mediterranean
• My favorite activity as a child was: building things or playing pingpong with my two brothers.
• Best job I’ve ever had: Camp counselor at Camp Tekakwitha
• Favorite musical artist: Benedictines of Mary, Queen of Apostles
• If you were making a movie of your life, who would play you and why?
Tom Holland, because Google says we are almost the same age and almost the same height.
• Aside from Christ and his mother, the biblical character I most want to know more about is: Daniel the prophet, because I share his name, and I have a number of questions about the stories in his book.
• Favorite Scripture passage: “No greater love has man than this: to lay down his life for his friends” (Jn 15:13).
• I deal with failure by: saying/surrendering to God: “Make good my imperfect work!”
• If I have an important decision to make, I start by: asking God to give me light, and usually letting it sit on the back of my mind for a while.
• If I hadn’t felt called to become a priest, my dream job would have been: either a physician or a teacher.
“The whole grade school would fall to their knees at the same time when Our Lord came into the church,” he said. “I remember that sticking out to me.”
Deacon Mauro’s faith deepened along with his family’s during his middle school years.
“We started praying together the family rosary,” he said, easing into it with one decade at a time before
eventually working up to the full devotion.
Deacon Mauro was particularly influenced by his older sister, who entered religious life with the Servants of the Lord and the Virgin of La Matara (SSVM) when he was in high school.
“She encouraged me to have courage in following Christ,” he said. “Her coming to know Christ more deeply was a huge help for me.”
His time at Camp Tekakwitha at Prairie Star Ranch in Williamsburg and the mentorship of multiple faculty members at St. James Academy in Lenexa, where he attended high school, were also impactful.
Deacon Mauro isn’t surprised by the number of religious vocations that have come out of St. James.
“The theology classes are excellent,” he said. “But more than that, there was this sense that we have a gift in our Catholic faith, and we want to pass that on to you.”
By the end of high school, Deacon Mauro was considering the priesthood, but he was still drawn to married life and attended Benedictine College in Atchison, where he studied biology/ pre-med for one year.
After being moved by Father Schmitz’s talk, he applied for the seminary and began studies at Cardinal Glennon College in St. Louis, then went on to attend Kenrick-Glennon Seminary.
He wants to be a priest to share the beauty of the Catholic faith with others.
“[It’s] thinking about the gifts of the Catholic faith — the presence of Christ in the Eucharist, the closeness of Our Lady, all the ways that carried me through so many hard times,” he said.
“This gift of our faith is immense,” he continued, “and people — without ever being told how good it is — are then walking away without realizing what it is they’re losing.”
Deacon Mauro is grateful for all the people who’ve helped him along his journey toward the priesthood.
“As I reflect on these years,” he said, “it’s only by the prayers of so many people that I know I’m here.
“I know these are essential parts of me being able to be here today to do God’s will.”
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Deacon Daniel Mauro has some fun with other pilgrims on the way to World Youth Day in Lisbon, Portugal, in 2023. He will become the associate pastor at Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa and chaplain at St. James Academy where he graduated from high school after his ordination on May 24.
ARCHBISHOP ON TOUR
Photos by Jay Soldner
Shortly after being named archbishop of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Archbishop-designate Shawn McKnight returned for a quick tour of the area May 21-22. Photographer Jay Soldner followed the archbishop-designate as he learned more about the area he will soon lead. The archbishop’s installation is scheduled for May 27 at the Church of the Nativity in Leawood.
Students at a social gathering at the St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center at the University of Kansas in Lawrence — (from left) Rachel Braun, sophomore, Leawood; Faith Jung, sophomore, Prior Lake, Minnesota; and Camryn Strope, sophomore, Jefferson City, Missouri — visit with Archbishop-designate Shawn McKnight on May 21.
Archbishop-designate Shawn McKnight works with representatives from various archdiocesan departments on the plans for his upcoming installation May 27.
Archbishop-designate McKnight celebrates Mass at St. Benedict’s Abbey in Atchison one day after the death of Pope Francis. Deacon Patrick Hirl, assistant professor of physics at Benedictine College, assists the archbishop.
>> Continued from page 1
Retirements
Msgr. Thomas Tank, from stable sacramental ministry at Holy Spirit Parish, Overland Park, to retirement from stable sacramental ministry.
Father Gerald William, O.Carm., from pastor of St. Boniface Parish in Scipio and pastor of St. Therese Parish, Richmond, to retirement in Chicago from parish administration.
Sabbatical
Father Gregory Hammes, to six-month priestly sabbatical, effective July 23, and continuing as pastor of Prince of Peace Parish, Olathe.
Parochial administrators
Father Joel Haug, from pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Sabetha, St. Augustine Parish in Fidelity and St. James Parish, Wetmore, to continuing as parochial administrator of Sts. Peter and Paul Parish, Seneca.
Father Francis Hund, from parochial vicar for Prince of Peace Parish, Olathe, to parochial administrator of Prince of Peace Parish, Olathe, effective July 23, and continuing as Minister to Priests.
Father Sudeep Kodigandla, from parochial vicar for Church of the Nativity Parish, Leawood, to parochial administrator of Sacred Heart Parish in Sabetha, St. Augustine Parish in Fidelity and St. James Parish, Wetmore.
Father David McEvoy, O.Carm., from assignment by his religious order to priestly ministry outside of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, to parochial administrator of St. Boniface Parish in Scipio and St. Therese Parish, Richmond.
Other
Father Nicholas Ashmore, to associate vocation director and continuing as chaplain/director of Didde Catholic Campus Center in Emporia and pastor of St. Catherine Parish, Emporia.
Father Luke Doyle, from associate vocation director, to continuing as chaplain/ director of St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center, Lawrence.
Deacons
Deacon Jody Madden, from St. Benedict Parish, Atchison, to St. Joseph Parish in Wathena, St. Benedict Parish in Bendena and St. Charles Parish, Troy, and continuing with Rural Youth Outreach and as an archdiocesan master of ceremonies.
Deacon Nicolaas tenBroek, from Fort Leavenworth U.S. Army installation, Leavenworth, to St. Joseph Parish in Nortonville, Immaculate Conception Parish in Valley Falls and Corpus Christi Parish, Mooney Creek, and continuing to assist at St. Benedict Parish, Atchison.
Deacon Charles Welte, from Atchison Women’s Health Clinic, Atchison, to St. Ann Parish in Hiawatha and St. Leo Parish, Horton, and continuing to assist at St. Benedict Parish, Atchison.
Archbishop-designate McKnight visits Lauren Solidum, president and CEO of Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas, at the administrative offices in Overland Park.
Msgr. Stuart Swetland, president of Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, gives Archbishop-designate McKnight a tour of the campus. Donnelly College offers affordable higher education in the heart of Kansas City, Kansas.
Archbishop-designate McKnight blesses the meal in the Ferrell Academic Center at Benedictine College in Atchison. Included were Benedictine College president Steve Minnis, to the archbishop’s immediate right, students, monks and other leaders of the college.
EMPLOYMENT
Database administrator - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking to hire a database administrator, which is responsible for maintaining a healthy and accurate account of donors and gifts to the archdiocese, making sure that donors are properly credited and acknowledged for their gifts in a timely and personal manner. This position is full time and benefits-eligible. For more details or to apply, please visit “Employment Opportunities” at: www.archkck.org.
Preschool teacher - St. John Paul II Academy in Olathe is seeking a lead pre-K teacher for the 2025-26 school year. Join us for our inaugural year as we open a pre-K - 8 liberal arts school in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. The ideal candidate will have a background in early childhood education and at least one year of experience in the classroom. Montessori formation and experience are preferred. Hours are Monday - Friday from 7:30 - 11:30 a.m. Please direct all inquiries and submit cover letter and resume to: jennykropf@stjpii. org.
Part-time assistant director - Holy Trinity’s Sacramental & Faith Formation Office is looking for a parttime assistant director. In this role, you will have the opportunity to collaborate in the development and implementation of sacrament formation and various parish programs. We are looking for someone who is excited to work with families and has a passion for helping families understand the sacraments. Hours can be flexible, but some evenings and weekends are required. A full job description can be found at: https://htlenexa. org/job-openings. If interested, please send a cover letter and resume to Elyssa Bradfield at: ebradfield@ htlenexa.org or call (913) 895-0673 with questions.
Montessori training - Are you called to a deeper understanding of the full human person of the child? Dr. Maria Montessori developed her philosophy and method of education based on the dignity of the child. Mary’s Catholic Montessori Training Center (MCMTC) offers Catholic Montessori training for adult primary guides of children ages 3 - 6 years of age. Learn more at: https://www.mcmtc.org or email: info@mcmtc.org. Come and be formed in the whole of Maria Montessori’s teaching by a team of catechists and Montessorians with a wealth of teaching and training experience, including nationally recognized formation leaders of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Enrollment is now open for summer session beginning in June, and fall beginning in September, with a flexible training schedule. Find out more today!
Facilities maintenance/landscaper - The Savior Pastoral and Retreat Center is seeking to hire a facilities maintenance/landscaper. This position will assist with a variety of custodial, maintenance and landscaping tasks for Savior Pastoral Center. For more details or to apply, please visit “Employment Opportunities” at www.archkck.org.
Faculty and adjunct faculty job openings - Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, is a Catholic college offering higher education for those who may not otherwise be served Faculty job openings - Nursing faculty, full-time evenings; nursing faculty, full-time M - F. Adjunct faculty job openings - Adjunct instructor nursing; Adjunct instructor Accounting; clinical adjunct instructor - nursing; - P.A.S.S. (Preparing Academically Successful Students) - part time. Adjunct faculty Lansing Correctional Campus - Adjunct instructor - math; adjunct instructor - accounting; clinical adjunct instructor - Find job descriptions and details at: www.donnelly. edu/careers.
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. We also prefer that the candidate be fluent in both Spanish and English. Apply online at: archkckcs.org/apply. For more information, contact Father John Torrez at: jtorrez@archkck.org.
Campus minister - St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center in Lawrence is seeking to hire a full-time campus minister under the supervision of the director of ministry and mission. Responsibilities include one-onone meetings with students for structured mentor-ship; leading Good Company, the evangelization and outreach arm of the center, hosting belonging events for students; recruiting students; planning the welcome back BBQ; and administrative tasks. For more information, go to: https://kucatholic.org/jobs. To apply, send your resume, cover letter, and three references to Alli Petty: apetty@kucatholic.org.
Staff job openings - Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, a Catholic college offering higher education for those who may not otherwise be served. Job openings: English literacy instructor - P.A.S.S. (Preparing Academically Successful Students) - part time. Find job descriptions and details at: www.donnelly.edu/careers.
Coordinator of Children’s Catechesis - part-time position - Are you looking for a rewarding part-time job in a team-oriented environment? St. Joseph Church in Shawnee is seeking an enthusiastic, organized and faith-filled individual to join our formation team. This role involves coordinating K to 6th-grade religious education for the parish and assisting in the growth of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program across our campus. Interested applicants should apply through the St. Joseph website or email a resume and cover letter to Veronica Quinn at: vquinn@stjoeshawnee.org. For more information, call (913) 244-3909.
Caregivers needed - Daughter & 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.
Administrative assistant - Come join our team! A small family-owned company located in Lenexa is looking for an assistant to answer phones; invoicing; product ordering; some shipping/receiving and to assist the owner. We need a team member who is organized; detailoriented; self-motivated; trustworthy; has a positive attitude and above all else, gives excellent customer service. Schedule flexibility. Send your resume to: YourCareer101@gmail.com.
HOME IMPROVEMENT
Popcorn ceiling texture removal
Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144. 30 years’ experience. Interior painting specialist.
Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.
Shepaint Cabinets - Looking for a stunning, high-quality cabinet transformation? Shepaint Cabinets is a women-owned and operated business. I bring precision, passion and a personal touch to every project. Detail-driven service with a personal touch, reliable, efficient and customer-focused. Your dream kitchen is just a coat of paint away! Call/text (816) 806-4375 for a free quote. Let’s create something beautiful together!
J Heller Construction - A licensed and insured Class A general contractor. Residential and commercial projects. New build, basement finishing, kitchen and bath remodeling, decks, docks, outbuildings and commercial build-outs. Call Jake at (913) 433-6042. Member of St. Joseph, Shawnee.
STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Free estimates. Call (913) 579-1835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.
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.
Haus To Home Remodeling - Let’s give that room a nice face-lift! Specializing in affordable room remodeling. From small projects to bathrooms and basements. Tile, paint, carpentry, wood rot, decks, drywall, etc. Free estimates. Call Cole at (913) 544-7352.
SERVICES
Tutoring - Summer tutoring available from experienced teacher and tutor. Tutor teaches in a fun and meaningful context. For more information, please call/text Kathleen at (913) 206-2151 or email: Klmamuric@yahoo.com.
CZ Handyman service - 25+ years working in home improvement. Painting, carpentry, flooring, wood rot and much more. Quality work with attention to detail. Clean, honest and fair. Please call Craig at (913) 9899163.
Catholic end-of-life doula, grief coach and spiritual director - Feeling overwhelmed by grief, caring for aging parents, supporting a loved one at life’s end or just need a quiet space to notice where God is active in you life? I am Rhonda, a Catholic end-of-life doula, grief coach and spiritual director. I offer heartfelt guidance and prayerful companionship during difficult times. You don’t have to do this alone. Call me at (913) 954-8574, or visit: www.this-one-life.com.
Catholic CounselingSam Meier, MA, LCPC - (913) 952-2267 & David Walter, MA, LCPC - (402) 913-0463
Book an appointment online at: StillWatersKC.com, In-person or Telehealth
Catholic attorney - Offers Wills,s Trusts and guardianship plans to shield your loved ones from court and conflict. Special pricing this month. Call Mike J today to be okay tomorrow. Contact me at: www. KCLegacyLaw.com or call (913) 717-5951.
Masonry work - Quality new or repair work. Brick, block and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured, second-generation bricklayer. Member of St. Paul Parish, Olathe. Call (913) 271-0362.
Garage door repair expert
New Garage Doors Garage Floor Coatings
A Total Door Inc., Since “83. Leaven discount joe@atotaldoor.com or (913) 236-6440.
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.
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.
Concrete construction - Tear out and replace stamped, stained or colored patios and drives. Retaining walls, footing, poured-in-place safe rooms, excavation and hauling. Asphalt drives and lots. Fully insured, references. Call Dan at (913) 207-4371 or send an email to: dandeeconst@aol.com.
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! Booking done before May 1 will receive 10% off. Call John at (402) 763-7244.
REAL ESTATE
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.
Looking to buy or sell a home? - Buy or sell a home with someone who understands your values. We are a Catholic-owned, faith-driven team of Realtors, dedicated to helping fellow Catholics buy or sell homes in our community. We bring integrity, compassion and a commitment to your needs. Let us be part of your journey. Call Kevin Holmes (owner) at (913) 553-0539.
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.
CAREGIVING
Need caregiving at home? Don’t want to move?For nearly 20 years, we have helped seniors stay in their home with personal care, med management and household assistance. We also specialize in dementia care with free dementia training for families, all at reasonable rates and terms. Call Benefits of Home Senior Care at (913) 422-1591.
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.
FOR SALE
Electric wheelchair Pride: JazzyEVO Series 613 New 22” base width, holds up to 300 lbs. 17 miles per charge, high-back swivel seat $3,000. Call Lisa at (913) 449-9435
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)
For sale - Are you considering selling your home that needs work? I am a local resident and active member of Queen of the Holy Rosary, looking to purchase a property in Johnson County, Kansas. I am prepared to offer a fair cash price, cover your closing costs and require no repairs or renovations. Call Mark Fisher at (913) 820-1020..
For sale - Trappist monk casket; rectangular, premium-shaped walnut with brass hardware. Stored at Resurrection Cemetery. Purchased January of 2010. Asking $4200; originally $5120 from Iowa monks.
For sale - Mausoleum space for sale at Mt. Calvary Cemetery at 38th and State, Kansas City, Kansas. Located in the Mausoleum True Companion, corridor C, tier A, crypt 38. Includes perpetual care as well as opening and closing. For more information, call (816) 532-4072.
For sale - Single mausoleum crypt at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Kansas City, Kansas. Located inside in the chapel corridor. Asking $6000. Currently all inside crypts are sold out. If interested in purchasing this inside crypt, call Linda at (913) 631-9962 and leave your name and phone number and she will return your call.
For sale - Two cemetery plots in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery at 6115 Quivira Rd. Located in section G-1, space 7-A, and space 8-A. Asking $5000. If interested, send email to: jobralke@gmail.com.
WANTED TO BUY
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.
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.
$$Paying Cash$$ - Antique Furniture, crocks, tin and cast iron toys, old tools, glassware, American coins, jewelry. Most anything old. Please call Patricia at (913) 515-2950.
Wanted to buy - Antiques & Collectibles: jewelry, military items, railroad, sterling, OLD holiday/toys and more. Renee Maderak (913) 475-7393. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.
Classified Advertising
Cost is $20 for the first five lines, $1.50 per line thereafter. Email: beth.blankenship@theleaven.org
SOLUTION
ICARE MINISTRIES MASS
Queen of the Holy Rosary 7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park
May 10 at 6 p.m.
ICARE MINISTRIES provides adapted Mass opportunities for children and adults with developmental disabilities and their families. We hope you can join us this month to celebrate those in our community receiving sacraments! Go online to: icare-ministries.org for more information and upcoming events, or contact us by email at: icarenek@gmail.com.
UNDERSTANDING MEDICARE
Keeler Women’s Center
759 Vermont Ave., Ste 100-B, Kansas City, Kansas
May 14 from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
By appointment only. Get the most of your Medicare benefits! Come and get all your questions answered about Medicare and get help signing up for services or adjusting your current plan with a licensed professional.
ST. ISIDORE FEAST DAY MASS AND BLESSING OF SEEDS AND SOIL
Christ’s Peace House of Prayer
22131 Meagher Rd., Easton
May 15 at 10 a.m.
Join us for a day in honor of St. Isidore, the patron saint of farmers, on his feast day. The day will begin with Mass followed by a rosary procession to the St. Isidore Shrine. Bring seeds and soil in a small, decorated basket to be placed at the altar for blessing. A freewill offering will be taken up to support the center. To attend, send an email to: info@ christspeace.com or call (913) 773-8255. Let us know how many people will be attending.
RETROUVAILLE WEEKEND RETREAT
Kansas City area
May 16-18
Do you need Retrouvaille? Has your romance faded? Do you argue without reaching resolution? Are you more like roommates than soulmates? Have you grown apart? Is your marriage in crisis? Retrouvaille can help you to rebuild your emotional connection, learn healthy communication methods, manage conflicts effectively and forgive and rebuild trust. Register online at: www.helpourmarriage.org.
‘EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL:
A MISSION OF LIGHT AND LIFE’ Christ’s Peace House of Prayer 22131 Meagher Rd., Easton May 23 at 5:30 p.m. - May 25 at 4:30 p.m.
Join us for a retreat in celebration of the National Eucharistic Revival’s Year of Mission. Rooted in the teachings of “Lumen Gentium” and the Catechism of the Catholic Church, this retreat will explore the church’s call to live as missionary disciples of Christ. Participants will deepen their understanding of the Eucharist as the source and summit of their faith. Participants are eligible for a plenary indulgence for the Jubilee Year 2025 through this retreat. There are conferences, spiritual direction, Eucharistic adoration, Mass, confession, and time for private prayer, reflection and walking. Cabins/courtyard rooms: $180 single/$270 couple or single guest rooms: $110. Meals are included. To attend, fill out the individual retreat form online at: ChristsPeace.com or call (913) 773-8255.
VIRTUAL CATHOLIC SCHOOL ADVANCEMENT CONFERENCE
May 28 and 29 from 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Join us for live, drop-in webinars on topics ranging from communication, marketing strategies, student retention, donor engagement, website development and more. This event is open to anyone looking to learn about advancing Catholic education. Register online at: archkckcs.org/ register.
‘SILENCE IS THE VOICE OF GOD’: A DIRECTED RETREAT
Precious Blood Renewal Center
2120 St. Gaspar Way, Liberty, Missouri
May 29 - June 1
A silent, directed retreat is a personally guided prayer experience over three days. Retreatants meet one-on-one with a trained, experienced spiritual director. For more details or to register, go online to: programs@pbrenewalcenter.org.
SUMMER STREAM CAMPS
Holy Cross Parish
8101 W. 95th St., Overland Park
June 2 - 27
A variety of camps is offered for incoming kindergartners through eighth-graders. For a short description of camp offerings, with dates and times, go online to: https://holy crosscatholicschool.com/Current-Families/summer-programs.
WILLS AND TRUSTS WORKSHOP
St. Joseph Parish
104 S. 7th St., Wathena
June 4 at 11:45 a.m.
The speaker will be Casey Connealy, estate planning attorney at Gaughan & Connealy. There will be refreshments and
snacks from 11:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. The presentation on wills and trusts will be from 12:15 - 1:15 p.m. Register online at: cfnek. rg/events or call Jane Schmitt at (913) 6473060 or send her an email at: jschmitt@ archkck.org.
BLESSED STANLEY ROTHER RETREAT
Spiritual Life Center
7100 E. 45th St., Wichita
June 6 at 6 p.m. - June 8 at noon
This retreat will explore the journey of Father Rother. Most of us will not be given the mission of pastoral services in Guatemala, nor be required to lay down our lives as witnesses to the faith in the face of murderous circumstances. Most of us are not invited to thread our way through life and death decisions to minister to people in our care. For more information and to register, go online to: www.slcwichita.org. The cost is $205 for commuters; $255 for a single and $235 for a double. Sign up by June 5 at 6 p.m.
CEF FUTURES PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT SERV
9051 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park
June 7 from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Whether you are a seasoned player or new to the game, grab your paddle and join the fun at the Catholic Education Foundation’s annual pickleball tournament! All proceeds support scholarships for students attending CEF schools in northeast Kansas. Registration is $100 per team (must be 18+), and includes round-robin play, tournament seeding and a commemorative gift. Teacher discounts are available. Register online at: cefks.org/events.
FATHER MICHAEL KANTANKA’S
30TH ANNIVERSARY AS A PRIEST
St. Leo Parish
1340 First Ave. E.
June 29 at 10 a.m.
Father Michael Kantanka will celebrate his 30th anniversary as a priest. The African Men’s Choir will perform at Mass. A meal will follow at noon. Please RSVP online to: smslchurch@rainbowtel.net or call (785) 486-3971.
BAKED CHICKEN DINNER
Divine Mercy Parish
555 W. Main St., Gardner
June 21 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
The dinner will include baked chicken, baked potato, green beans, coleslaw, roll and cookie. Join us for great
fun and fellowship. The cost is $13 for those over the age of 10 and free for ages 9 and under. Proceeds are used for charitable works, such as scholarships and other giving throughout the year.
ENCOUNTER SUMMER INTENSIVE
Holy Trinity Parish (Quigley Center) 9150 Pflumm Rd., Lenexa
June 23 - 26 from 6 - 9 p.m. nightly Eager to encounter the transforming power of Jesus alive and active today? Join us for the Encounter Summer Intensive as we prepare and activate you to more fully participate in the supernatural lifestyle of Jesus Christ and further bring about the kingdom of God here on earth. The summer intensive is a four-evening experience that provides a taste of the lifestyle Jesus has available for every Christian disciple. The topics of each night reflect the teachings offered in the first four quarters of the Encounter School of Ministry: Identity & Transformation, Hearing God & The Prophetic Gifts, Power & Physical Healing, and Inner Healing & Freedom. For more information, go online to: Encounterschool.org/kansas-city.
DIVORCE SUPPORT GROUP
‘HEALING THE DIVORCED HEART’
St. Michael the Archangel (Gabriel Room)
14251 Nall Ave., Leawood 1st & 3rd Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m.
Those who have experienced a divorce understand as perhaps few others can. We were sad, lonely, scared and angry, but we have found that with God, time and the support of others, healing is possible. For more information, visit the website at: www.stmichaelcp.org/divorce-support.
ST. THOMAS AQUINAS GRADE SCHOOL SUMMER CAMPS
St. Thomas Aquinas High School 11411 Pflumm Rd., Overland Park May through early August
Our summer camps give students entering grades K - 8th the chance to discover their potential in both sports and other activities like STEM camp, baking, cheer, crafting and more! Camps fill up fast, so register today online at: www.stasaints. net/athletics/summer-camps. We look for ward to providing a positive camp experience for your camper! For questions, call the student life office at (913) 319-2416 or send an email to: btriggs@stasaints.net.
DAILY READINGS
FOURTH WEEK OF EASTER
May 11
FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER
Acts 13: 14, 43-52
Ps 100: 1-2, 3, 5
Rv 7: 9, 14b-17
Jn 10: 27-30
May 12
Nereus and Achilleus, martyrs; Pancras, martyr
Acts 11: 1-18
Pss 42: 2-3; 43: 3-4
Jn 10: 1-10
May 13
Our Lady of Fatima
Acts 11: 19-26
Ps 87: 1b-7
Jn 10: 22-30
May 14
MATTHIAS, APOSTLE
Acts 1: 15-17, 20-26
Ps 113: 1-8
Jn 15: 9-17
May 15
Isidore
Acts 13: 13-25
Ps 89: 2-3, 21-22, 25, 27
Jn 13: 16-20
May 16
Friday
Acts 13: 26-33
Ps 2: 6-11
Jn 14: 1-6
May 17
Saturday
Acts 13: 44-52
Ps 98: 1-4
Jn 14: 7-14
THEODORE OF SYKEON d. 613
St. Theodore was raised in a brothel where a cook formed him as a Christian, teaching him to pray, fast and to benefit from the sacraments. As a teenager, he practiced extreme mortification in a cave near Sykeon in Asia Minor. But he also became well-known for his service to neighbors with gifts of healing, exorcism and prophecy. Theodore adopted some weird ascetical practices. For example, he sometimes wrapped himself in an iron breastplate, collar, rings and chains. The church wants us to imitate Theodore’s charity, not his mortification. As Charles of Sezze, a 17th-century saint, taught: “God does not command us to live in hair shirts and chains . . . but to love him above all things and our neighbors as ourselves.”
It’s high time for a meet and greet
The weirdest thing happened as I was starting this column. I sent a couple of items I wanted to quote here to my printer, to make it easier to refer to and type in. Those items did indeed print, but on the back of that sheet of paper, a photo of Pope Francis blessing a baby from the popemobile printed as well.
What makes this weird is: 1) I was going to write about Pope Francis’ constant call to a “culture of encounter” (which that picture clearly showed); and 2) I have no idea where that photo came from or why it printed. (I’m treating this as a sign of blessing from Pope Francis on what I’m writing today!) Let me start with a story — author unknown — from a post on Learning In Life where a man writes: I spent an hour in the bank with my dad, as he had to transfer some money. I couldn’t
AFATHER MARK GOLDASICH
Father Mark is the pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie. He has been editor of The Leaven since 1989.
resist asking, “Dad, why don’t we activate your internet banking?”
“Why would I do that?” he asked.
“Well, then you won’t have to spend an hour here for things like making a transfer,” I replied. “You can even do your shopping online. Everything will be so easy!” I was excited about initiating him into the world of
MARK MY WORDS
online banking.
Dad asked, “If I do that, I won’t have to step out of the house?”
“Exactly,” I said. I told him how even groceries can be delivered to your door and how Amazon delivers everything. His answer left me tongue-tied.
He said, “Since I entered this bank today, I’ve met four of my friends. I chatted a while with the staff who know me very well. You know, I’m alone. This is the company that I need. I like to get ready and come to the bank. I certainly have enough time, and it’s the physical touch that I crave. . . . Would
I have that “human” touch if everything became online? Why would I want everything delivered to me and force me to interact with just my computer? I like to know the person that I’m dealing with and not just the “seller.” It creates bonds of relationships. Does Amazon deliver all this as well?”
The son realized his father’s wisdom: Technology isn’t life. How essential it is to spend time with people, not only with devices.
That’s why Pope Francis encouraged — and lived — a “culture of encounter.” In a homily the pope gave in the Santa Marta Chapel at the Vatican in 2016, he emphasized that a culture of encounter is “not just seeing, but looking; not just hearing, but listening; not just passing people by, but stopping with them; not just saying, ‘What a shame, poor people!’ but allowing yourself to be
moved with compassion and then, to draw near, to touch and to say, ‘Do not weep’ and to give at least a drop of life.”
With the warmer weather, it’s been a delight to encounter my neighbors again. After being cooped up during the winter months, it’s refreshing to visit with them in the sunshine and catch up on one another’s lives.
In a world where we’re so used to talking “at” one another rather than “to” and “with” one another, Pope Francis’ words give us a lasting challenge. To truly listen with love to our fellow human beings, to “walk in the shoes of another,” can change perspectives and soften even the hardest hearts. So, what are you waiting for? Put down The Leaven, leave behind your electronics and go greet someone face to face. Make Pope Francis proud!
Are we even listening for the voice of the Shepherd?
re we listening?
This week’s Gospel from John offers this simple, matter-offact statement from Jesus: “My sheep hear my voice.”
In a time when so much of our communication is visual — on screens so small you can hold them in your hand, or so large they take up a wall in a living room — the Scripture on this Sunday brings us back to something so basic, so fundamental, we almost take it for granted.
We realize once more that ours is a faith that was initially spread by the spoken
GREG
Deacon Greg Kandra is an award-winning author and journalist, and creator of the blog “The Deacon’s Bench.” He serves in the Diocese of Brooklyn, New York.
word — and by one simple sense: hearing. Maybe we need to ask ourselves, all these
centuries later: Are we listening?
On this Fourth Sunday of Easter, known as Good Shepherd Sunday, the Gospel traditionally focuses on Christ’s role as a shepherd, guiding us lovingly where we need to go. It is a metaphor rich with meaning — underscoring both our own humility and dependence on the Lord and his gentle attention to our needs. The famous psalm makes it so clear: He is our shepherd, we shall not want.
In a 2020 address, Pope Francis spoke about the voice of the good Shepherd. He noted how it differs from other sounds in
the world. “The voice of God corrects us with great patience,” he said, “but always encourages us, consoles us: It always nourishes hope. God’s voice is a voice that has a horizon.”
In our noisy and distracted age, it can be easy to miss the Shepherd’s voice, to tune it out, to stop listening. Instead of a horizon, we can run into brick walls and dead ends. But the readings this week make plain: Someone is calling out to us. We need to pay attention.
The voice of the good Shepherd is one that affirms, uplifts, inspires and, as the Holy Father underscored, “nourishes hope.”
During this Holy Year when we are journeying as “pilgrims of hope,” this is something we all need to hold onto — and listen for. Our culture is suffused with angry voices that mock, condemn and accuse; they are quick to sow disharmony or doubt. Spend any time scrolling through social media or surfing the channels of cable television and you won’t have a hard time finding those voices. But in these early weeks of the Easter season, while we’re aglow with the joyful spirit of Resurrection and new life, shouldn’t we listen more closely to try and hear the good Shepherd?
Thérèse of Lisieux’s message of merciful love still resonates resonates
(OSV News) — Bishop Donald J. Hying of Madison, Wisconsin, needed to make a difficult decision, so he turned to one of his favorite saints for help: St. Thérèse of Lisieux.
“I prayed to Thérèse to intercede for me so that I could see what the Lord’s will was in this — and I prayed for a sign,” he told OSV News about the 19th-century French Carmelite nun (1873-1897) who promised to spend her heaven doing good on earth.
That same day, after doing a prayer service at a church where he knew no one, a woman
approached him with a little triptych of St. Thérèse. A solution to his dilemma became clear.
“Things like that have happened many, many times in my life,” the bishop said of the intercession of St. Thérèse, whom he has had a devotion to since he was a teenager.
The bishop and other experts spoke with OSV News about St. Thérèse — a saint beloved worldwide for her “little way” of childlike trust and confidence in God’s merciful love — and her impact on the church ahead
of the 100th anniversary of her canonization on May 17. Her path to sainthood is a remarkable one: At age 15, she entered the cloistered Carmelite community at Lisieux where she remained until she died of tuberculosis at 24. She was canonized 27 years later, in 1925.
“St. Thérèse is for everyone,” Mary Therese Lambert, development director of the Society of the Little Flower, said. “She teaches us that God doesn’t expect perfection, but love. That we don’t have to accomplish great things, but rather do small things with great love.”
DEACON
KANDRA
Student scholarship needs rise with inflation, cost of education
This school year, the Catholic Education Foundation (CEF) provided approximately $4.9 million in scholarships to over 1,800 youth. Scholarships are primarily awarded to families who qualify for the National School Lunch Program. There are already approximately 100 children on a waiting list who need financial assistance scholarships in order to attend a Catholic school in the archdiocese next year.
drive scholarship funding costs higher, including inflation and rising costs to educate students.
costs alone will total over $300,000 even before any new students are awarded scholarships.
RJ Gildea, chair of the CEF board, shared that “increasing funding by approximately a half-a-million dollars each year is a daunting challenge. However, CEF will work tirelessly to ensure that no child is turned away.”
Demand for scholarships continues to grow each year while the costs of scholarships also continues to grow. Next school year, the Catholic Education Foundation is projecting that 200 additional youth will need scholarships in order to attend schools in our archdiocese.
TCEF adds a cost of living increase to existing scholarships for
returning awardees and increases funding for new scholarships. Over $5.5 million will be needed for CEF to meet the scholarship need for next school year.
There is an increased interest from families who desire a Catholic education for their children. There are also some challenges that will
CEF scholarship funding has doubled since just five years ago because of the demand and growing costs. Scholarships increase by $150-$200 each year. That might not seem like a lot but for CEF and the over 1,800 students that will receive renewed scholarships, those
“It gets more difficult every year,” Gildea said, “to meet the scholarship demand. Fundraising efforts have to continually grow. We can’t rest or some children will miss out on their opportunity to receive a high quality, faith-filled Catholic education. However, we have a great board of directors, staff and generous donors. We are blessed to live in such a charitable Catholic community.
Our heavenly Father always seems to send people our way to help us meet the scholarship need.”
High school dropout
rates for low-income students are 3.7 times higher than students from middle-class and upper-class families. CEF-funded students attending archdiocesan Catholic schools have had a 100% graduation rate for many years now. Over 85% of these students attend college. That number increases to over 95% when you add students who will pursue career technical training. The return on investment for funding students with scholarships in our community is tremendous.
More important, though, is the faith formation of our youth. This is invaluable in ways only Our risen Lord can measure.
How to talk about the tough stuff with your kids
he happiness of our children is important to us. We work hard to provide for them, get them coaches, lessons and tutors to develop their potential. We give gifts, throw parties and go on trips to create memories.
Yet often, we’re so busy doing these things we miss one area that could make all the difference — marriage!
According to sociologist Brad Wilcox, the odds of being “very happy” with life increase by 545% for those in a good marriage. How can we set them up for success in
FAMILY MATTERS
this crucial area? Here are three conversations to have with your teen now and some tips to get you started.
COHABITATION
Despite its widespread cultural acceptance, the statistics still tell us that living together decreases your chances of a happy marriage. Don’t wait until your young adult asks to borrow your truck. Spend some time now helping them
“I
understand the sociological and theological reasons to avoid this practice.
NATURAL FAMILY PLANNING (NFP)
Couples who use NFP have lower rates of divorce and higher rates of happiness in marriage, but often they don’t hear about it until marriage prep. Teaching our daughters how to track their cycles is a means of helping them grow into healthy young women — physically, psychologically and spiritually. Teaching our sons some basics about the goodness of fertility can help them appreciate the beauty of women.
HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS
What qualities make a good spouse? How can you build the virtues you need to become one? What is the point of a dating relationship and what does a healthy one look like? If we don’t discuss these questions with our kids, their vision will be shaped by our culture.
Now for some tips on the conversations themselves:
• Aim for multiple, short conversations rather than one big lecture. Listen before talking.
• Is this info new to you? Have you made mistakes? That’s OK!
Be not afraid to learn with your kids.
• Use movies, TV, music or even people you know to bring topics up naturally. Ask them, “What do you think of that?”
• Read a book together such as “How to Avoid Falling in Love With a Jerk” by John Van Epp or “Gift and Grit” by Dr. Andrew and Sarah Swafford.
• Go online to: www. compassforparents. org, a resource produced by the Archdiocese of Detroit, for resources on these and other important topics, as well as tips for having difficult conversations with your kids.
VINCENT ANCH
Vince Anch is the executive director of the Catholic Education Foundation.
LIBBY DUPONT
Libby DuPont is a consultant for the archdiocesan office of marriage and family life.
Gregg Amos
RUNNIN’ WITH THE REVS
Photos by Jay Soldner
Faith was the driving force in quest for the big leagues
>> Continued from page 3
children at Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish in Overland Park. When his wife became ill and died, he found strong support in his parish family. Kipp continued raising the children on his own and remaining active at Queen.
But his path eventually crossed with a teacher at Holy Cross in Overland Park, Lorraine Gillis. The Holy Cross school secretary had urged Gillis to attend the singles group at Queen of the Holy Rosary specifically in order to meet a great guy named Kipp. She went. They met. They dated. And they married in 1990.
As a valued southpaw (left-handed pitcher), Kipp played with some alltime greats like Sandy Koufax, Don Drysdale, Jackie Robinson and Mickey Mantle. He admired their skills but did not hold them as personal heroes. His first hero was a fellow at the country club in Emporia who lent him a car on Sundays to drive to Mass when he was in college. His current hero is his daughter-in-law, who was baptized with his granddaughter at the Easter Vigil this year.
Kipp continues to serve in the Knights of Columbus, an organization of which he has been a member for nearly 70 years and faithfully attends a 6 a.m. men’s Bible study. He always attended daily Mass while still driving, but now relies on his brotherhood of parishioners for rides to church. And Sunday Mass is a given.
At age 93, Kipp is a fan of the KC Royals baseball team.
“Baseball is good for the community as it brings people together,” believes Kipp. “And the Catholic Church is good for me.”
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAN DIXON
Fred Kipp poses with his wife Lorraine. The two met at a singles group event at Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish in Overland Park and married in 1990.
Father Timothy Skoch, associate pastor at St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, slaps hands with his teammates as introductions are made before the game.
Father George Rhodes, associate pastor of Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish, Topeka, launches a shot from beyond the three-point arc.
Father Dan Morris, archdiocesan director of vocations, meets resistance as he drives to the basket in the Runnin’ with the Revs game at Hayden High School in Topeka.
Father Joel Haug, pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Sabetha, plays defense against Jairus Todwong from Mater Dei Parish in Topeka.