A CENTURY OF FAITH
St. Theresa Parish in Perry celebrates 100 years since the cornerstone was laid for its church and 145 years since the parish’s formation
By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org
PERRY — When St. Thérèse of Lisieux was canonized on May 17, 1925, the parish here first known as St. Cecilia changed its name to St. Theresa, honoring the new saint.
On Aug. 23, both current and former parishioners packed the church to mark 100 years since that cornerstone
was laid and 145 years since the parish’s formation in 1880.
Festivities began at 10:30 a.m. with a candlelight procession from the rectory to the church steps and then inside the sanctuary for a Mass of thanksgiving.
Archbishop Shawn McKnight served as celebrant and homilist.
Pastor Father John Kolencherry, OFM Cap., along with Fathers Francis Hund and Bob Hasenkamp, former pastors,
and Father Jomon Palatty, MSFS, pastor of Annunciation Parish in Baldwin City and St. Francis Parish in Overbrook, concelebrated. Father Keith Chadwick, pastor of Christ the King Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, served as master of ceremonies.
A dinner followed the Mass along with tours of the church and rectory showcasing recent repairs and updates.
In his homily, Archbishop McKnight discussed the importance of physical
places of worship to our faith.
“We need designated places, edifices that we consecrate for holy and sacred interactions that take place here, where God reveals himself on this mountain that is our sanctuary,” he said, “because we, as human beings, need to use our whole selves — not just our minds — to worship God in spirit and in truth.”
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Father John Kolencherry, OFM Cap., pastor of St. Theresa Parish in Perry, gives the thumbs up for the start of the candlelight procession from the rectory to the church steps.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Archbishop Shawn McKnight blesses the faithful of St. Theresa Parish in Perry with holy water on Aug. 23 as the parish celebrated two significant anniversaries.
Eileen (McNally) and Jim Swearingen, members of Church of the Nativity, Leawood, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on Sept. 18. The couple was married on Sept. 18, 1965, at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Pittsburg by Father Thomas Colgan. Their children are: Sara Swearingen, Julie Schaller, David Swearingen and Emily Swearingen (deceased). They also have four grandchildren
Rosemary (Weinmann) and Henry J. Falk, members of St. Ann Parish, Effingham, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary Sept. 25. The couple was married on Sept. 25, 1965, at St. Patrick Church, Atchison. Their children are: Alan, Steven and Karen Falk. They also have seven grandsons.
Harold and Carey (Griffin) Cribbs, members of St. Paul Parish, Olathe, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a private dinner and a trip to Eureka Springs, Arkansas. The couple was married on Aug. 29, 1975, at Visitation Church in Kansas City, Missouri, by Father Richard Carney. Their children are: Brennan (deceased), Sean and Patrick.
Parishioners
>> Continued from page 1
“This is the place where the church gathers, where the assembly, where the people of God — that network of relationships — comes to encounter the Living One,” the archbishop added. “And having been regenerated and reinvigorated, we go out and continue our worship of the Holy One in how we live our lives — ultimately, a life of sacrificial charity of one kind or another.”
“I am here to congratulate you and to join with you in your celebration of the history of this parish,” he concluded. “One-hundred-forty-five years of being the church present in this territory and 100 years of dedicating this temple, this abode of God, in which we offer the perfect prayer of praise, the sacrament of the Eucharist.”
After Mass, parishioners reminisced.
Ruth Ellis’ roots go back 70 years to when her parents Mathew and Maxine Willkomm joined the parish
Through the years, Ellis said she’s “done everything” and has been everything from sacristan and eucharistic minister to parish secretary, the position from which she is retiring this year.
Of the celebration, she said, “It couldn’t have been any more perfect.”
Vickie Mulvihill agreed.
Karin and Marvin Sobba, members of Curé of Ars Parish, Leawood, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept. 27. The couple was married on Sept. 27, 1975, at St. Joseph Church, Shawnee. Their children are: Anne Jonason and Kathy Parks. They also have two grandchildren.
Jim and Betty Grollmes, members of St. Theresa Parish, Perry, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on Sept. 20 with a family dinner. The couple was married on Sept. 18, 1965, at St. Bede Church, Kelly. Their children are: Kimberly Smith, Pamela Fergus and Christina Bartlett. The also have seven grandchildren.
Beth and Marty Cole, members of St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept. 6. The couple was married on Sept. 6, 1975, at St. Philip’s Episcopal Church in Joplin, Missouri. Their children are: Rebecca Cole and Mollie Richard. They also have two grandchildren. The couple will celebrate with a Mediterranean cruise out of Venice, Italy, this fall.
ARCHBISHOP MCKNIGHT
Sept. 19
EOHSJ annual meeting — St. Paul, Minnesota
Sept. 22
Priests convocation — Florissant, Missouri
Sept. 30
CFNEK board meeting — Savior Pastoral Center, Kansas City, Kansas
Recently ordained priests dinner
Oct. 1
Bishop Ward High School Mass and tour, Kansas City, Kansas
Oct. 3
Deacon convocation — Seattle
Oct. 7
Archdiocesan convocation — Savior
ARCHBISHOP
EMERITUS NAUMANN
Sept. 19
EOHSJ annual meeting — St. Paul, Minnesota
Sept. 22
Priests convocation — Florissant, Missouri
Oct. 2
RAAP board meeting
Oct. 3
Father Joseph Arsenault 25th jubilee Mass and reception — St. John the Baptist Parish, Kansas City, Kansas
Oct. 4
Catholic Community Health Fall Ball — Fiorella’s Event Space, Overland Park
Oct. 5
Respect Life Sunday Mass and blessing — Sacred Heart, Shawnee
agree day could not have been ‘more perfect’
Her husband’s family has belonged to the parish since 1895, 15 years after its formation. One of the stained-glass windows in the church was donated by her husband’s grandparents and great-grandmother. It’s dedicated to
the family’s “dear departed ones by the Mulvihill family.”
A member since 1978, Mulvihill is quoted in The Vindicator, the newspaper for nearby Valley Falls, as saying, “From baptisms to weddings, from fish fries to funerals, St. Theresa’s has been a spiritual home to many.”
The “many” include 86-year-old lifelong parishioner Ann Hurd.
Hurd’s grandparents John and Regina Quinlan were charter members, and the family is honored with not one, but two, stained-glass windows.
While Hurd is proud of that, she said her favorite memories center around music. She’s been a member of the choir since she was a small child. She and her sisters, Helen Hamm and Rita Higgins, sang three-part harmony for years with Hamm on lead, Higgins singing tenor, and Hurd on alto. To this day, Hurd remains in the choir and said she was “thrilled” to represent the Quinlan family, singing for the celebration.
St. Thérèse’s favorite flower — roses — was well-represented in the decorations, from the altar itself to centerpieces on the dinner tables.
Parishioner Betty Grollmes is a member of the arts and environment committee and was thrilled with the many displays.
“They were so beautiful,” she said. “I’d never seen such beautiful white
roses. They just opened for us, and they were gorgeous.”
But more than the music, the flowers and the food, many, including Karla Spurling, commented on the sense of family that exists within the parish.
“Today, during Mass, I just felt so much community there,” she said. Both she and her husband, both converts, have been parishioners since 1967.
“Ever since then, it’s just felt like family,” she said, adding she enjoyed seeing so many former parishioners return.
Grollmes agreed, adding, “I’m going to remember how it all came together. . . . Hearing Father [John] talk about what he had hoped for this day, his vision, my thought was, ‘How can we ever do this?’ He’d talk about different things.
“One thing was this fan of roses in front of the altar. There were just different things that he wanted. There was always this little part of me that said, ‘We want to please him. We want to do that, but how is it going to happen?’”
The look on Father John’s face throughout the day, Grollmes said, was one of sheer joy.
When she asked him if his vision of the day had come true, he didn’t hesitate.
“Oh, yes! And more!” he said.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Archbishop McKnight incenses the altar of St. Theresa Church in Perry. The fan of roses in front of the altar was a new touch for the special Mass.
Archbishop McKnight forms cabinet
By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Father Michael Hawken never expected the request Archbishop Shawn McKnight made of him when the archbishop asked to meet with him this summer.
“Our conversation was just wonderful and going right along,” said Father Hawken. “And out of the blue, he said, ‘I want you to be my vicar general and moderator of the curia.’
“I said, ‘Well, this has taken me totally off guard. I never saw this coming.’”
Father Hawken has been a parish priest for 31 years and pastor of Church of the Nativity in Leawood for the past seven.
He took a leap of faith and said “yes” to the archbishop’s call.
“When you’re asked to go into the unknown to something that you’ve not done before, it really does challenge you,” he said, “and it invites you to go to the source of strength.
“It’s making me turn to the Lord and trust in him and rely on him all the more.”
Father Hawken said he’s admired the individuals who have been working on the administrative side of the archdiocese and is excited to join them in helping the archbishop accomplish his goals.
The hardest part will be leaving his Nativity parishioners.
“They’re always going to have a special place in my heart,” he said.
Along with his new roles, Father Hawken was one of six individuals
WHEN YOU’RE ASKED TO GO INTO THE UNKNOWN TO SOMETHING THAT YOU’VE NOT DONE BEFORE, IT REALLY DOES CHALLENGE YOU AND IT INVITES YOU TO GO TO THE SOURCE OF STRENGTH.
FATHER MICHAEL HAWKEN
VICAR GENERAL & MODERATOR OF THE CURIA
appointed by Archbishop McKnight to his new cabinet.
The archbishop’s cabinet
Archbishop McKnight’s transition cabinet was constituted on May 28 to advise him as he entered his new assignment as head of the archdiocese.
The new cabinet will be effective Oct. 1.
Its members are: Father Hawken, vicar general and moderator of the curia; Father Mark Mertes, vicar general and vicar for priests; Father Anthony Saiki, J.C.L., chancellor and promoter of justice; Chris Arth, general counsel; Carla Mills, chief financial officer; and Marissa Easter, director of communication.
The cabinet will meet weekly.
>> See “ARCHBISHOP’S” on page 5
Decree of Constitution
Whereas the Archbishop’s Transition Cabinet was constituted on 28 May 2025, to assist me upon my installation as the archbishop of Kansas City in Kansas, and has run its course; Whereas to assist me with the pastoral care and good governance of the archdiocese a stable consultative body is needed; Whereas, having determined the roles necessary to serve on this stable consultative body, I hereby constitute
THE ARCHBISHOP’S CABINET
Membership as the following:
Very Rev. Michael Hawken, Vicar General & Moderator of the Curia
Very Rev. Mark Mertes, Vicar General & Vicar for Priests
Rev. Anthony Saiki, J.C.L., Chancellor & Promoter of Justice
Chris Arth, General Counsel
Carla Mills, Chief Financial Officer
Marissa Easter, Director of Communication
The constitution of the Archbishop’s Cabinet is effective 1 October 2025. Membership on the cabinet is at the discretion of the diocesan bishop and can be adjusted anytime according to his needs and judgment.
Given at the chancery in Kansas City, Kansas, on the 4th day of September in the year of Our Lord 2025.
The Most Reverend Shawn McKnight, S.T.D Archbishop of Kansas City, in Kansas
Rev. Anthony J. Saiki, J.C.L. Vice-Chancellor
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Father Michael Hawken will become the new vicar general and moderator of the curia under Archbishop McKnight. He has been a parish priest for 31 years and pastor of Church of the Nativity in Leawood for the past seven.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Father Anthony Saiki will be the chancellor and promoter of justice. He has been serving as vice chancellor and director of canonical services, as well as rector of the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kansas.
LEAVEN FILE PHOTO
Father Mark Mertes is the new vicar general and vicar for priests. Father Mertes, who is also pastor of St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, has served as moderator of the curia and moderator of pastoral life for the archdiocese.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Carla Mills, chief financial officer, will serve as a member of the archbishop’s cabinet. She said she has enjoyed working with the archbishop since his appointment.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Marissa Easter, director of communication and member of the cabinet, said she appreciates the opportunity to help the archbishop share his message with the wider archdiocese.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Chris Arth, general counsel, said he is grateful for the opportunity to work closely with Archbishop McKnight as a member of his cabinet.
RALLY FORTH!
Photos by Jay Soldner
For 28 years, the Kelly Youth Rally has drawn hundreds of kids from the Nemaha-Marshall Deanery for an afternoon of faith and fun. This year was no different. More than 500 young people attended the rally, which was dedicated to Father Arul Carasala, former pastor of Sts. Peter and Paul Parish in Seneca, who was murdered earlier this year. The theme for this year’s rally was “Grow in Grace” and featured keynoter Dana Catherine — a Catholic speaker, singer, songwriter and worship leader from Nashville, Tennessee — along with magician Giancarlo Bernini. The event concluded with Mass celebrated by Archbishop Shawn McKnight.
as the song goes, “The future’s so bright you have to wear shades,” then the future was out
guest speakers, entertainment, food
Father Viet Nguyen — pastor of St. Vincent de Paul, Onaga; St. Patrick, Corning; and St. Bede, Kelly — autographs a participant’s shirt at the youth rally. Gathering lots of signatures on one’s shirt is a time-honored tradition at the Kelly Youth Rally.
Archbishop Shawn McKnight celebrates Mass with priests of the Nemaha-Marshall Deanery at the Kelly Youth Rally. Joining the archbishop on stage, are, from left: Father Quentin Schmitz,
Father Sudeep Kodigandla, Deacon Jody Madden, Father Viet Nguyen, Father Reginald Saldanha and Father Joel Haug.
If
in force at the 28th annual Kelly Youth Rally. Hundreds of youth from the northern part of the archdiocese attended the annual rally, which featured
and ended with a Mass celebrated by Archbishop Shawn McKnight.
Nicole Becker, a seventh grader from St. Patrick Parish in Corning, participates in a magic act performed by special guest Giancarlo Bernini. After Bernini’s performance, keynote speaker Dana Catherine took the stage to share her music and faith story.
Archbishop’s new cabinet will meet weekly
>> Continued from page 3
“The cabinet will act as a sounding board for directors on major initiatives,” said Archbishop McKnight, who said it was an essential part of his ministry in Jefferson City.
“I don’t know of a better way than this to fulfill my responsibilities as archbishop,” he added.
Meet the clergy
Father Mertes, who is also pastor of St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, brings a wealth of experience, including serving as moderator of the curia and most recently as moderator of pastoral life for the archdiocese.
He’s excited to take on the challenge of vicar general and vicar for priests.
“That is essentially the bishop’s hands and feet and voice in relationship with the various members of the clergy in the archdiocese,” said Father Mertes.
His role will be “mainly to support the development and the formation and the successful ministry of the priests in the various assignments,” he said, “and also then to be available when there are challenges or difficulties to that.”
“I love our archdiocese, and I love the Lord and want to serve here,” said Father Mertes, “and this is the newest way the Lord has invited me to do that.”
Father Saiki studied canon law from 2017-20 and has served on the archdiocesan tribunal since 2020. He has been serving as vice chancellor and director of canonical services, as well as rector of the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kansas.
Archbishop McKnight first asked him to be promoter of justice, and later to additionally serve as chancellor.
“Having worked with him several months now as vice chancellor and in the transition cabinet, we have a good rapport,” said Father Saiki. “I feel like I’m learning his vision and his expectations.”
Father Saiki will split his time between the cathedral and the chancery.
As chancellor, he’ll be responsible for “ensuring that all of our documentation,
all of our archives, all of our communications are in line with the code of canon law,” he said.
He will also certify and notarize the archbishop’s decrees, making them canonical documents.
In his role as promoter of justice — which is a new position in the archdiocese but well established in the code of canon law — he will ensure that when an allegation is presented within the church, all individuals are heard and their rights are respected.
Meet the laypeople
Mills has enjoyed working with Archbishop McKnight since he arrived and looks forward to sitting on his cabinet.
“He’s shown that he wants to listen and learn and also teach us,” she said. “He’s really big into that synodal process of transparent communication and seeking feedback before making informed decisions.”
Arth is also grateful for the opportunity.
“I was excited about being able to be in that group that’s pretty close to the archbishop and able to get to know him better and work side by side,” he said.
Arth believes Archbishop McKnight chose cabinet members who have a broad engagement with the chancery, and he admires the archbishop’s ability to delegate based on the expertise of those around him.
“He is always looking forward to making things better for our parishioners and people of the archdiocese,” said Arth.
Easter is also eager to lend her expertise to the cabinet.
“First and foremost, my vocation is as a wife and mother,” she said, “but I’m also a devout Catholic and person in the pew. Archbishop McKnight’s leadership inspires me. I look forward to helping him meet people where they are and share the church’s teachings.”
She appreciates the opportunity to help the archbishop share his message with the wider archdiocese.
Decree
Wof Appointment
hereas the interim appointments made on 28 May 2025 have run their course, and for the good governance of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas stable appointments must be made to assist me as the undersigned archbishop; Having considered the needs of the archdiocese, the appointments necessary for the care of this local church, and having determined the candidates to fill them, I hereby decree the following
APPOINTMENTS
The Very Reverend Michael Hawken, from pastor of Church of the Nativity in Leawood to Vicar General (cf. Can. 475 §1), Moderator of the Curia (cf. Can. 473 §2), Ecclesiastical Notary (cf. Can. 483, §1), and continuing as parochial administrator of Church of the Nativity in Leawood until a new pastor is named;
The Very Reverend Mark Mertes, from Moderator of Pastoral Life to Vicar General (cf. Can. 475 §2), Vicar for Priests (cf. Can 476), and Ecclesiastical Notary (cf. Can. 483, §1), while continuing as pastor of St. Patrick Catholic Church in Kansas City, Kansas;
The Reverend Anthony Saiki, J.C.L., from Vice-Chancellor to Chancellor (cf. Can. 482) and Promoter of Justice (cf. Can. 1430), while continuing as rector of the Cathedral of St. Peter, Prince of the Apostles, and pastor of the Parish of St. Peter, Prince of the Apostles, in Kansas City, Kansas. These appointments will take effect on 1 October 2025, and are to be published on the website of the archdiocese and in the next edition of The Leaven. Given at the chancery in Kansas City, Kansas, on the 4th day of September in the year of Our Lord 2025.
“It’s very important to him that everyone in the archdiocese understands what’s happening, why it matters and how it affects them,” said Easter.
Rev. Anthony Saiki, J.C.L. Vice-Chancellor
“He speaks about listening, learning and walking together,” she continued. “And I think he puts that into practice.”
The Most Reverend Shawn McKnight, S.T.D Archbishop of Kansas City in Kansas
Iwas sitting at work, eating my lunch alone, when I overheard a line from the next table: “Kids need lots of people who love them.”
At the time I was still far from parenthood, working at Catholic Charities as an intern for the Catholic Campaign for Human Development while I was in graduate school. But my husband and I were hoping for a baby, trying for a baby, and praying for a baby. Every day, my thoughts were consumed with children, even if my life was still far from them.
Kids need lots of people who love them
So, when I heard the social worker at the next table pronounce this truth aloud, my ears perked up. She was talking about the children she worked with in foster care, many of whom lacked a consistent, healthy adult presence in their lives. When they connected with someone who could fill in where their parents were unable to provide, it brought such balm.
An attentive teacher, a supportive coach, a loving grandparent, a welcoming neighbor or an encouraging mentor — any of them could change the life of a child. But none could do it alone. Kids need a constellation of caring adults to help them flourish.
For whatever reason — the longings of my own heart during infertility, the clear wisdom of a seasoned professional or most likely the workings of the Holy Spirit — the words I heard that day in the lunch room became a refrain that never left me. I’ve shared them with friends (or spoken them again to myself) a thousand times since.
Kids need lots of people who love them.
This truth brings relief for overworked
parents, especially in today’s era of intensive parenting when we’re supposed to be, do and provide everything for our kids. Parents cannot do it all, despite what social media might tell us. What’s more, we were never meant to live this way.
Humans thrive in community, and we need the proverbial village to help us raise a child.
But as a mother, I often have to remind myself that I cannot be the end-all, be-all for my children. I’ll confess that a twinge of jealousy pricks my heart when one of my kids delights in a special activity or relationship with an aunt, uncle, grandparent or sitter. I secretly long to do everything fun and memorable with them myself.
That’s when I remind
my all-too-human heart: “Kids need lots of people who love them.”
This wisdom also reminds the Christian community to love the children in our midst. Each one of us is called to be an adult who cares for children, whether or not we raise them.
Loving children might mean praying for the family with the fussy baby behind us at Mass instead of glaring with annoyance. Loving children might mean volunteering to teach faith formation classes long after our own kids have grown. Loving children might mean smiling at rambunctious toddlers in our pew, inviting children to participate in the parish ministries we lead or praying for teenagers we see at Mass, trusting that God is working through
their lives, too.
Kids need lots of people who love them: at home, at school and at church. If Jesus took a child upon his lap, against his disciples’ protests that kids distracted from their “real work,” are we not called to heed his words and welcome each young one in his name?
From lifelong commitments to the children we love, to volunteering with kids who need extra support, to simply opening our hearts to the delightful (if sometimes distracting!) presence of the young church with us at Mass, God gives us many ways to care for the children in our lives.
May we never forget our calling to love the youngest faces of Christ in our midst.
LAURA KELLY FANUCCI
Laura Kelly Fanucci is an author, speaker and founder of Mothering Spirit, an online gathering place on parenting and spirituality.
New model of leadership starts with listening
By John Sorce john.sorce@theleaven.org
KANSAS CITY, Kan. — A new approach to youth ministry will soon be coming to the archdiocese — one that will focus on listening first.
Dr. Josh Packard, who is the co-founder of Future of Faith and a former professor specializing in sociology and religion, will be presenting Sacred Listening workshops in the coming weeks.
His message is simple: In general, today’s young people have a lack of trust in institutions and their leaders, and adults seeking to guide them will have a greater success rate if they start out by listening.
That starts with building one-on-one relationships.
“We used to live in a world that trusted institutions and their leaders implicitly,” Packard said. “For about five decades now, we have been losing a little bit of that trust every year, and it is at an all-time low. For those of us working in ministry, we need to approach things a little differently, and the most effective first step in this lowtrust world is [to build] relationships.”
“There’s a low level of trust for institutions and their leaders, and high levels of trust for people that they know individually,” he explained. “So, that means we have to be known to the young people we are trying to serve, and we have to know them.”
Youth ministry consultant Kyle Kuckelman first heard Packard speak back in March, and he considered it to be “the best hour of professional development I had ever gone through.”
It was then that he realized he wanted more people to hear Packard’s message.
“The way he presents the data and how to respond to what is being presented is very compelling,” Kuckelman said. “I was blown away at how good he was and immediately wanted more of this community to know about this after listening to him.”
Packard’s presentation here in the archdiocese will focus on three main points: understanding the roots of distrust — what the data says and why it matters; moving beyond transactional ministry — shifting from authority figures to trusted guides; and creating cultures of listening, where young people feel heard, not just instructed.
Kuckelman feels the church is at a crossroads. And he believes that Packard’s presentation can teach adults to better understand where youth are and how they got there.
By learning that, he thinks, youth ministers and pastors will be better
able to approach young people — to accompany them in their faith journey — moving them away from a posture of directing or dictating how to go about things.
“As an organization, the church is still in a method of ‘come to the church, let me talk at you and then go out and do something about it,’” Kuckelman said.
In this new model, he said, instead of authority figures expecting to be listened to, a youth leader or pastor becomes “a person that you can walk with and be a guide in your story.
“It’s relational ministry at its core.”
Packard feels strongly about the message and while he doesn’t feel like he has all the answers, he does feel that his message can help ministry leaders be more effective.
“We think the message is really that important,” he said. “As I’ve had the opportunity to go around and listen to the pain points of youth ministers, adult pastors and priests, it kept coming back to us working harder than ever for less results.
“I don’t think what we have is the answer. But I think it can be part of an answer and if we at Future of Faith can in any way be a part of helping people do their work more effectively, then we want to do it.”
Kuckelman said these presentations are not just for those in professional youth ministry. All those who care about young people staying in relationship with Christ and his church are welcome.
Packard will first be visiting rural communities at the end of September.
Josh Packard speaking dates
• Sept. 28 - St. Joseph in Nortonville from 1-3 p.m.
• Sept. 28 - St. Dominic in Holton from 5:30-7:30 p.m.
• Sept. 29 - St. Francis Xavier in Burlington from 6-8 p.m.
• Oct. 20 - Church of the Ascension in Overland Park from 6:308:30 p.m.
• Oct. 21 - Holy Trinity in Lenexa from 6:30-8:30 p.m.
• Oct. 22 - Holy Trinity in Lenexa from 9-11 a.m.
He will speak on Sept. 28 at St. Joseph in Nortonville from 1-3 p.m. and St. Dominic in Holton from 5:30-7:30 p.m. before heading to St. Francis Xavier in Burlington on Sept. 29 from 6-8 p.m.
Registration is not required for these sessions and Angie Bittner, rural youth ministry outreach coordinator, encourages people to just show up.
He will return to speak in the Johnson County area in mid-October, with engagements scheduled at Church of the Ascension in Overland Park on Oct. 20 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. and Holy Trinity in Lenexa on Oct. 21 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. and again on Oct. 22 from 9-11 a.m.
To learn more and to register for the Johnson County sessions, visit the website at: archkck.org/sacred-listeningyoung-people-arent-rejecting-faith.
Santa
Marta to host
inaugural Charity Golf Classic
OVERLAND PARK — Santa Marta, a senior living community here sponsored by the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, is teeing up its very first Santa Marta Scramble Charity Golf Classic. The event will be held Oct. 20 at the Nicklaus Golf Club at LionsGate in Overland Park.
This new fundraiser will bring together golf enthusiasts, friends and supporters from across the Catholic community for a day of fellowship on the greens.
Proceeds from the event will directly benefit Santa Marta’s Benevolent Care fund. This missiondriven program ensures that residents who outlive their financial resources continue to receive the dignity, compassion and quality care they deserve — no matter their circumstances.
Golfers and sponsors are invited to participate and help make a meaningful impact in the lives of local seniors. Registration information and event details can be found on the website at: Santa MartaRetirement.com/Events or by calling the community at (913) 323-7100.
Blue Mass set for Sept. 29 at Queen of the Holy Rosary
OVERLAND PARK —
The second annual Blue Mass, a special liturgical celebration honoring the courage, service and sacrifice of police officers and first responders, will be held on Sept. 29 at 11 a.m. at Queen of the Holy Rosary Church here, located at 7023 W. 71st St.
A complimentary luncheon will follow in the parish hall, hosted by the Father Carl Zawacki Council of the Knights of Columbus.
The Blue Mass is open to the public and welcomes individuals of all faith backgrounds. Uniformed attendance is encouraged, and guests are advised to arrive early to ensure seating.
For more information or to RSVP, please contact the parish office at (913) 432-4616 or go online to: www.queenoftheholyrosary. org.
COURTESY PHOTO
Josh Packard, the co-founder of Future of Faith and a former professor specializing in sociology and religion, will be presenting Sacred Listening workshops in the archdiocese in the coming weeks.
Spiritual mentors learn to guide
More mentors needed; new cohort starts soon
By Therese Horvat
Special to The Leaven
KANSAS CITY, Kan.
— Interested in receiving formation to accompany others on their journey toward holiness and at the same time enriching your own faith life? Apply now for the next cohort of the Catholic Spiritual Mentorship program.
Stephanie Jacobson, director, explains that the program is designed for adult Catholics who desire to deepen their prayer and sacramental life; to increase their knowledge of the faith; to grow in the virtues; and especially to help others do the same.
“We want to equip men and women as mentors to accompany and guide others on their spiritual journey,” she said.
Since the program began in 2011, it has graduated more than 430 spiritual mentors with an additional 94 set to complete the two-year training in September. These spiritual mentors have assisted an untold number of persons/mentees on their paths to spiritual enrichment. The demand for spiritual mentors currently exceeds the supply.
Father Brian Schieber, pastor of St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood and a strong supporter of the program, said that his parish has slowly built an army of spiritual mentors with 40 parishioners having completed the course.
“On average,” he said, “if each of these mentors is forming five people, this means we now have 200 people being formed in their spiritual life. In turn, if 10 percent of those receiving spiritual direction are willing to go through the mentorship program, we continue to multiply the number
of missionary disciples in our parish.”
Structure of the program
The spiritual mentorship program includes four in-person, weeklong intensives spread across two years and interspersed with online learning done at each participant’s personal pace. The intensives are held at Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kansas. These sessions focus on prayer; the sacraments and moral principles; virtues; and spiritual readiness and practical equipping to strengthen skills learned.
Frequent practice opportunities occur throughout the program. A theory on a topic is presented, and demonstration of a related spiritual mentoring scenario is modeled. Participants then complete an abbreviated practice mentoring session on the topic. Alumni of the program serve as observers who provide guidance and feedback. The final in-person intensive aims to strengthen
use of the tools and skills participants have learned.
Susan Pieper, a consecrated virgin and School of Faith spiritual adviser, is one of the cofounders of the mentorship program. She describes the initiative as having evolved over time particularly on the practical level.
“There is a lot more emphasis on having participants practice what they’ve learned about the faith,” she said, than in the past.
“It’s one thing to understand virtue,” she continued, “it’s another to accompany someone in living out the virtues.
“It’s one thing to ‘know’ how to pray, but another to accompany someone in deepening their life of prayer. We give program participants the theory. We want them to practice spiritual mentoring with others to learn to apply what they’ve learned.”
The in-person intensives are dynamic. Jacobson said the day begins with prayerful meditation and Mass. There’s time for friendship, learning, shared meals and exercise/leisure activities. A retreat day during the
week offers the opportunity for even deeper reflection.
“This schedule helps our spiritual mentors progress in their own holiness and equips them to guide others in taking stock of their interior life,” she said.
Content of the online dimension reinforces what is taught in the in-person intensives. The length of the online segments varies based on whether participants are asked to listen to 10 one-hour lectures or to a series of rosary podcasts. Program faculty include Mike Scherschligt, STD, founder and executive director of the Holy Family School of Faith; Troy Hinkel, Ph.D., vice president and cofounder; and Pieper. Alumni volunteers provide staff and participant support.
The program includes the expectation that participants have their own spiritual mentors/directors.
Jacobson explained, “So many aspects of spiritual mentoring are learned by meeting with one’s own spiritual director. These monthly encounters serve as model training sessions.”
Unique features of the program
Aside from the fact that it’s very practical and hands-on, there are other unique aspects of the Catholic Spiritual Mentorship program. The program doesn’t follow a particular spirituality, Pieper said. Instead, it draws from many great minds of the church, like St. Teresa of Avila and St. John of the Cross.
Jacobson points to the connectivity that exists among participants and with alumni, and the pairing with a member of the alumni team throughout the program as other pluses.
Join the next cohort
The Holy Family School of Faith coordinates and implements the Catholic Spiritual Mentorship program and is now taking applications for the next cohort that will begin in February 2026 and run through September 2027. For more information about the curriculum, fees and an application, visit the website at: schooloffaith. com/spiritual-mentorship.
From a young mother of seven children to a 70-plusyear-old, the program attracts people from across the age spectrum. Participants and alumni represent diverse vocations, professions and life stages: couples, retirees, deacons, priests, women religious, parish staff and those just seeking to cultivate their faith lives.
The program team strives to accommodate needs of those who are hearing-impaired and visually impaired. Adeptness with the English language is required. However, Spanishspeaking persons are available for practice sessions and as spiritual mentors.
While developed to help with faith formation of adults in the archdiocese, since its inception the program has been open to Catholics from across the country. Approximately, 45% of participants have come from the archdiocese.
“The spiritual mentorship program fulfills a huge need,” said Father Schieber. “Priests and religious can only provide spiritual direction for a limited number of people. We need well-formed laity willing to disciple and mentor others.”
LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE
Cofounder of the mentorship program Susan Pieper (center in blue and white prints) hugs Karen Osman at the Spiritual Mentorship Mass on Sept. 10 at Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kansas.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE
Participants in the Catholic Spiritual Mentorship Mass on Sept. 10 kneel in prayer. Since the program began in 2011, it has graduated more than 430 mentors.
less traveled’ worth the journey guide others to a deeper faith
Participants find ‘the
To a person, those interviewed about their experience expressed deep gratitude for the spiritual mentorship program. They have found it spiritually beneficial on a personal level. They believe it equipped them to walk with and help guide other Catholics on their faith journeys.
Nancy and Dave Kronoshek Annunciation Parish, Baldwin City
While Dave Kronoshek initially agreed to participate in the Catholic Spiritual Mentorship program because his wife wanted to, he emerged as a true believer in the training. “It exceeded my expectations and taught me the importance of prayer and how to pray,” he said.
The church has always been an important part of their marriage and family life. Nancy believes the timing was right to do something more. Dave had recently retired from a job in corporate America. Nancy’s friends had urged her to go through the spiritual mentorship program.
The Kronosheks enrolled in the 2014-15 cohort for several reasons. Nancy sought to deepen her spiritual life and she wanted to develop the spiritual courage to express her faith — to have the conviction to verbalize her thoughts and feelings.
“I went in thinking I would learn more about my faith and what it means to be spiritual,” Dave recalls. He was impressed with the methodology of the program and considers the training and the School of Faith as valuable resources in the archdiocese.
Neither Kronoshek initially envisioned being a spiritual mentor, but both have assumed this role. Dave considers the men he mentors his “spiritual workout buddies.”
Nancy views the program as the very best thing she’s ever done. She believes the experience of going through the program as a couple enriched their marriage of 50-plus years. She appreciated the discipline imposed in making time for God, Jesus and prayer. She also fell in love with eucharistic adoration. Her advice to others considering the program: “Think and pray about it, and ask participants about it. Don’t dismiss it. It’s the road less taken, but you’ll be happy on the journey.”
Father Barry Clayton, pastor St. Philip Neri in Osawatomie; Sacred Heart in Mound City; and Our Lady of Lourdes, La Cygne
road
Father Barry Clayton enrolled in the spiritual mentorship program with more questions than expectations. Looking back, he describes it as a “great blessing” for his own spiritual growth and for helping others on their faith journeys. He found it so valuable, in fact, that Father Clayton is now serving as chaplain of the program that he completed in 2019.
He has provided sacramental ministry during in-person sessions at Savior Pastoral Center. He celebrates Mass and the sacrament of reconciliation. Additionally, he helps facilitate small groups and practice mentoring sessions with priest participants in the two-year course. Father Clayton registered for the program at the encouragement of his own spiritual
insights through his homilies and in parish faith groups such as Bible studies.
Acknowledging that participation in the program takes some sacrifice, Father Clayton thinks that other priests would find this program beneficial and worth the time invested. He encourages them and laypersons to give it some thought.
“God is never outdone in generosity. He will bless you in your spiritual growth and help others in their spiritual journeys as well,” he said.
Becca Schroeder
Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa
When she originally felt pulled to apply to the Catholic Spiritual Mentorship program, Becca Schroeder had reservations. As a mom with six young children, she barely had time to shower let alone navigate a twoyear course.
director. He particularly enjoyed sessions exploring the theory behind different topics, the faith formation and the practical tips.
Going through the program with laypersons was a great collaborative experience for the archdiocesan priest.
“The more lay faithful who are able to offer spiritual direction for others, the greater the reach of our efforts to evangelize,” he said. “This becomes a blessing and support to a parish.”
Given a priest’s schedule, Father Clayton found that the commitment of two weeks out of two consecutive years for training was doable. He manages to meet with a few laymen for spiritual direction and has purposefully been doing spiritual mentoring with some permanent deacons. In addition, he applies skills learned and knowledge acquired by sharing
Another baby and a couple of years later, Becca can’t say enough good things about the incredible experience of the program. She and cohort 2025 participants wrapped up their training earlier this month.
“Before I started this program, I was prayerful and had a relationship with the Lord,” Becca recalled. “I have selfishly learned so much through the program. It has prepared me with skills and transformed my relationship with the Holy Spirit and the Blessed Mother. It has taught me to be disciplined when I don’t want to pray.”
Becca also developed the language and vocabulary to share her experiences with her family — her husband, who has been accepted into the permanent diaconate program that starts in September, and their now seven children, ages 4 months to 10 years.
Becca believes God cleared the path for her to go through the program. She credits Stephanie Jacobson, program director, with pairing her as a spiritual mentor with other young women in the early stages of motherhood as her practice mentees.
She literally has met these women where they’re at — at 8:30 p.m. by Zoom or at a park as their children play. Paired with the young moms as their spiritual mentor, Becca said, “A piece of the puzzle in my heart fell into place. I felt I was fulfilling a purpose.”
Becca highly encourages others to prayerfully discern applying to the Catholic Spiritual Mentorship program.
“God will guide you every step of the way,” she promised, “if you are willing to answer his call.”
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Dave and Nancy Kronoshek enrolled in the 2014-15 spiritual mentors cohort. Dave was impressed with the methodology of the program, while Nancy appreciated the discipline imposed in making time for God, Jesus and prayer.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Becca Schroeder talks with a group of women she mentors via Zoom from the sanctuary of Holy Name of Jesus Church in Kansas City, Kansas.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Father Barry Clayton completed the spiritual mentorship program in 2019 and found it very valuable. So valuable, in fact, that Father Clayton is now serving as chaplain of the program.
Pope says his biggest challenge since election is being a world leader
By Carol Glatz Catholic News Service
ROME (CNS) — Humanity has the potential to overcome the violence and hatred that is increasingly dividing people, Pope Leo XIV said in an excerpt from his first interview as pope.
“I think it’s very important to start a deeper reflection, of trying to figure out: Why is the world so polarized? What’s going on?” he said, pointing to several different “elements that have led to this,” including the “crisis of 2020” because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the ever-widening earnings gap between the working class and the wealthy as well as the loss of a sense of what life is really about.
“The news that Elon Musk is going to be the first trillionaire in the world. . . . What does that mean, and what’s that about? If that is the only thing that has value anymore, then we’re in big trouble,” he said.
A series of excerpts was published Sept. 14, the pope’s 70th birthday, by the Catholic online news outlet Crux, ahead of the Sept. 18 publication of the book, “Leo XIV: Citizen of the World, Missionary of the XXI Century,” in Spanish by Penguin Peru. English and Portuguese editions of the book will be released in early 2026.
The book includes two separate interviews totaling about three hours of conversation in July between Pope Leo and Elise Allen, Crux’s senior correspondent. The excerpts included topics such as the pope’s favorite sports teams, how he was settling into his role as pope, the war in Ukraine, synodality and the increasing polarization in the world.
Asked about how he is adapting to being the pope after his election May 8, he said, “There’s still a huge learning curve ahead of me.”
The pastoral part has not been difficult, he said, “although I’m surprised at the response, how great it continues to be.”
What is totally new, he said, “is being thrown onto the level of world leader. It’s very public; people know the phone conversations or meetings I’ve had with the heads of state of a number of different governments, countries around the world, in a time when the voice of the church has a significant role to play.”
Pope Leo told Allen, “We live in times when ‘polarization’ seems to be one of the words of the day, but it’s not helping anybody. Or if it’s helping anyone, it’s very few when everyone else is suffering.”
“We have to continue to remind ourselves of the potential that humanity has to overcome the violence and the hatred that is just dividing us more and more,” he said.
When asked how polarization can be resolved, the pope said people need to reflect on and talk about what led to the divisions.
“I don’t pretend to have all the answers,” he said, but “perhaps in some places, the loss of a higher sense of what human life is about” is the root of the problem, because if people lose
CNS PHOTO/LOLA GOMEZ
Pope Leo XIV spoke with the Catholic online news outlet, Crux, ahead of the Sept. 18 publication of the book, “Leo XIV: Citizen of the World, Missionary of the XXI Century.” He said he is still adapting to being made pope. “There’s still a huge learning curve ahead of me,” he said.
WE HAVE TO CONTINUE TO REMIND OURSELVES OF THE POTENTIAL THAT HUMANITY HAS TO OVERCOME THE VIOLENCE AND THE HATRED THAT IS JUST DIVIDING US MORE AND MORE.
POPE LEO XIV
the sense of the values of human life, the family and society, then “what matters anymore?”
Other factors contribute, too, he said, but “one which I think is very significant is the continuously wider gap between the income levels of the working class and the money that the wealthiest receive.”
“For example, CEOs that 60 years ago might have been making four to six times more than what the workers are receiving, the last figure I saw it’s 600 times more than what average workers are receiving,” he said, commenting then on news that a proposed compensation package from Tesla could make its CEO, Musk, become the world’s first trillionaire.
Synodality could be a sort of antidote to polarization by being “a way of addressing some of the greatest challenges that we have in the world today,” he added.
“If we listen to the Gospel, and if we reflect upon it together, and if we strive to walk forward together, listening to one another, trying to discover what God is saying to us today, there is a lot to be gained for us there,” he said.
Pope Leo emphasized that synodality, a hallmark of Pope Francis’ pontificate, began much earlier, starting with the Second Vatican Council and developing “at least in Latin America,” where the U.S.-born pope served for more than 20 years.
The idea is “not to try and transform
Thousands celebrate Pope Leo’s birthday in St. Peter’s Square
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Dozens of small handmade signs and large bold banners waved in the crowd of some 30,000 visitors in St. Peter’s Square wishing Pope Leo XIV a happy birthday Sept. 14. Two gold mylar balloons with the numbers “7” and “0” were held up high. The largest banner, in red and white, was held by a group from the Peruvian city of Monsefú in the province of Chiclayo, where the pope had served as bishop for eight years. “Dear friends, it seems that you know that today I turn 70 years old,” the pope said to huge cheers and shouts of “auguri,” meaning “congratulations” and “happy birthday” in Italian. “I give thanks to the Lord and to my parents; and I thank all those who have remembered me in their prayers,” he said after reciting the Angelus with the faithful in St. Peter’s Square. Musicians and musical bands in the square struck up the “Happy Birthday” tune, and people sang and clapped along.
the church into some kind of democratic government, which, if we look at many countries around the world today, democracy is not necessarily a perfect solution to everything,” he said.
“But respecting, understanding the life of the church for what it is and saying, ‘We have to do this together.’ I think that offers a great opportunity to the church and offers an opportunity for the church to engage with the rest of the world,” he said.
Asked to describe how he understands synodality, Pope Leo said it “is a way of describing how we can come together and be a community and seek communion as a church, so that it’s a church whose primary focus is not on an institutional hierarchy, but rather on a sense of ‘we together,’ ‘our church,’” where everyone has a specific vocation, “a role to play and something to contribute, and together we look for the way to grow and walk together as church.”
Pope Leo said he knows “some people have felt threatened by that.”
“Sometimes, bishops or priests might feel, ‘synodality is going to take away my authority.’ That’s not what synodality is about, and maybe your idea of what your authority is, is somewhat out of focus, mistaken,” he said.
Nonetheless, he said, synodality is “an attitude which I think can teach a lot to the world today.”
When asked about the potential of the Vatican being a mediator in the current conflict in Ukraine, Pope Leo said, “I’d make a distinction in terms of the voice of the Holy See in advocating for peace and a role as mediator, which I think is very different and is not as realistic” as “raising my voice, the voice of Christians, and the people of goodwill, saying that peace is the only answer.”
“The useless killing after these years of people on both sides — in that particular conflict, but in other conflicts — I think people have to somehow be wakened up to say, there’s another way to do this,” he said.
“I believe strongly that we cannot give up hope, ever. I have high hopes in human nature,” he added.
New saints encourage faithful to live life to the full, pope says
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — The greatest risk in life is to waste it by not seeking to follow God’s plan, Pope Leo XIV said, proclaiming two new saints — two young laymen of the 20th and 21st centuries. “Sts. Pier Giorgio Frassati and Carlo Acutis are an invitation to all of us, especially young people, not to squander our lives, but to direct them upward and make them masterpieces,” the pope said Sept. 7. “The simple but winning formula of their holiness,” he said, is accessible to everyone at any time. “They encourage us with their words: ‘Not I, but God,’ as Carlo used to say. And Pier Giorgio: ‘If you have God at the center of all your actions, then you will reach the end.’” In his homily, the pope underlined Jesus’ call in the day’s Gospel reading “to abandon ourselves without hesitation to the adventure that he offers us, with the intelligence and strength that comes from his Spirit, that we can receive to the extent that we empty ourselves of the things and ideas to which we are attached, in order to listen to his word.”
Pope encourages hiring people with disabilities at Vatican
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Leo XIV has approved a change in the Vatican labor laws to encourage offices to hire people with disabilities and to make the necessary accommodations. A rescript approved by the pope regarding “the inclusion of differently abled persons in the work community of the Holy See” was published by the Vatican Sept. 13. The pope’s decision modifies a section of the regulations regarding hiring and employment at the Vatican. “The employment of people with disabilities is promoted with a spirit of inclusion and, where necessary, through the adoption of appropriate and specific measures, given that the condition of disability does not preclude suitability for work within the entities subject to these regulations,” the modification says.
‘POPCORN WITH THE POPE’
St. Pius X Church (Glowacki Room)
5500 Woodson Rd., Mission Sept. 21 at 2 p.m.
Join the monthly “Popcorn with the Pope” film event. We will be watching Angel Studios’ “King of Kings” (the animated story of Jesus). No RSVP is needed.
DON LIPOVAC ‘ONE OF A KIND’ EXHIBIT
Strawberry Hill Museum
720 N. 4th St., Kansas City, Kansas Weekends through Sept. 21
The exhibit highlights Don Lipovac’s love of his Slovenian heritage and the expansive range of his musical talents. For reservations, go online to: strawberryhill museum.org.
HEARTACHE TO HEALING
Lenexa Public Market
8750 Penrose Lane, Lenexa Sept. 22 from 6 to 8 p.m.
Living without your spouse is hard. Come join our social support group for those widowed early in life. There will be games to play and food and drink available to purchase. Meet at the big tables by the coffee bar. An emailed RSVP is appreciated, but not necessary, to Laura at: khaeus1@hotmail.com, or Damon at: damon452@yahoo.com.
ESTATE PLANNING 101
Mother Teresa of Calcutta Church (hall)
2014 N.W. 46th St., Topeka Sept. 24 from 6 to 7 p.m.
Speaker will be Vince Cox, attorney at law at Cavanaugh, Biggs & Lemon, P.A. Register online at: cfnek.org/events or by contacting Mitch Nolan at (913) 647-3070 or by email at: mnolan@archkck.org.
ENCOUNTER WITH GOD THROUGH ART
(in Spanish only)
Sophia Spirituality Center 751 S. 8th St., Atchison Sept. 24 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This is a retreat day of prayer through silence, Scripture and creative expression, led by Sister Helga Leija, OSB. No art experience is needed — just an open heart. Materials are included. Space is limited. For information, visit: www.mountosb.org.
POTLUCK DINNER
Most Pure Heart of Mary Church (Culhane Room)
3601 S.W. 17th St., Topeka Sept. 25 from 5 to 7 p.m.
The Christian Widow and Widowers Organization will host the potluck dinner. There is no cost to attend. For more information, text Gen Orozco at (785) 230-2473.
STOP TRAFFICKING PROJECT
St. Michael the Archangel Church 14251 Nall Ave., Leawood Sept. 25 from 7 to 8 p.m.
This presentation is about keeping kids safe online and is geared toward youth (grades 6-12). School administrators and adults are also welcome. For more information, contact Sister Lucia Maria Sol, SCTJM, at (913) 402-3950.
RETROUVAILLE OF KANSAS CITY
Savior Pastoral Center
12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kansas Sept. 26 to 28
Is your marriage struggling or do you know a marriage that is struggling? Retrouvaille is a program that helps couples restore their marriage and rebuild a loving relationship. This is a practical program to improve communication and help couples connect. Life is too short to not live in joy. Sign up online at: www.helpourmarriage. org or call 1 (800) 470-2230.
ICARE MINISTRIES MASS & PICNIC
Queen of the Holy Rosary Church
7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park Sept. 27 at 6 p.m.
iCare Ministries is celebrating its ninth birthday. There will be an outdoor Mass and picnic to celebrate. Donations to Catholic Charities will be collected at this event. For more information about this event and our twice-monthly adapted Masses, visit the website at: icare-ministries.org or send an email to: icarenek@gmail.com.
PARISH FIESTA
Blessed Sacrament Church
2203 Parallel Ave., Kansas City, Kansas
Sept. 27 from noon to 11 p.m.
Join us for a day of community, culture, live music and celebration featuring delicious, authentic Mexican and Guatemalan food, games, raffles, folk dances and an indoor live music dance from 9 to 11 p.m.
HOLY FAMILY PARISH SLOVENEFEST
Msgr. Mejak Hall
513 Ohio St., Kansas City, Kansas
Sept. 27 from 5 - 9 p.m.
The celebration will begin with Mass at 4 p.m. at Holy Family Church at 274 Orchard St. There will be a traditional Slovenian dinner, mega money raffle, mini silent auction, children and adult games, cultural booth and souvenirs. The Brian McCarty Band will furnish music and dancing. For information, call the parish office at (913) 413-0022; go online to: www.holyfamily churchkck.org; or find us on Facebook.
2025 MONKRUN
St. Benedict’s Abbey
1020 N. 2nd St., Atchison
Sept. 27 from 8 - 10:30 a.m.
Join the monks for a morning 5K run or one mile walk! Check-in opens at 8 a.m. and the run begins at 9 a.m. The $28 entry fee, includes a T-shirt ($18 for kids 14 and under). All proceeds for this event contribute to our Good Samaritan Fund to benefit the playground for First Steps with Abbey day care. For more information and to register your group, visit our website at: kansasmonks. org/events.
ST. JOHN FALL BAZAAR
St. John Church (hall)
406 S Prairie St., Greeley
Sept. 28 from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
St. John Parish is hosting its annual fall bazaar. All are welcome to partake in raffles, the country store and bake sale. Dine-in and carryout lunch is available: turkey and dressing, chicken & noodles and ham, mashed potatoes and gravy, sides, homemade desserts and drinks. The cost is: $15 for adults; $6 for children; and $15 for carryouts.
SACRED HEART FALL FEST ’25
Sacred Heart Church
1100 West St., Tonganoxie
Sept. 28 from 12 to 4 p.m.
There will be pulled pork, baked beans, cheesy potatoes and a drink for $14. A full concession stand with hot dogs, popcorn, pretzels, candy and soda as well as a beer tent will also be available. Purchase a $10 wrist band for the kids to enjoy yard games, face painting, balloon objects and a bounce house all afternoon. Adults can try their luck with poker, heads or tails or the Human Slot Machine. Other activities include a cakewalk and silent auction. For more information, visit the website at: www.shcct.com.
HARVEST MEAL
St. Mary Church
9208 Main St., St. Benedict
Sept. 28 from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
St. Mary Parish will be hosting their annual harvest meal, serving pulled pork, cheesy potatoes, baked beans and cookies. Dine-in or carryout meals will be avail-
able for a freewill offering. CRAFT AND BAKE SALE
501 S. Willow Dr., Olathe Oct. 3 and 4 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
All profits will be donated to the care portal at Prince of Peace Parish, archdiocesan pregnancy centers and the Little Sisters of the Poor nursing center. Contact Margie for more information at (913) 707-5679.
OKTOBERFEST
St. Joseph Church
5901 Flint St., Shawnee
Oct. 4 from 6 to 10 p.m.
There will be live music by The Alpen Spielers and Moose with a Scarf; authentic Oktoberfest beer; German-style food; and friendly competitions like the wife-carrying race and Hammerschlagen. Register online at: www. givecentral.org/appeals-form-registration/ acp68adda1d16768/user/guest.
GERMANFEST
St. Joseph Church
306 N. Broadway, Leavenworth Oct. 4 from 5 to 8 p.m.
A German meal begins after the 4 p.m. Mass. Live music will be provided by the Festhaus-Musikanten band. The cost is $14 for an adult meal; $5 for a kid’s meal.
FALL BAZAAR
St. Theresa Church
209 3rd St., Perry Oct. 5, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
There will be a turkey and ham dinner with homemade pie for a cost of $15 for adults; $5 for kids 10 and under. Carryouts are available. Outdoor activities include games for kids, a silent auction, bingo, cakewalk, country store, baked goods sale and more.
FALL FESTIVAL
Divine Mercy Parish 555 W Main St., Gardner Oct. 5 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Fried chicken dinner will be offered with all the fixins, as well as brats, hot dogs, bierocks and tamales. There will be fallthemed games, inflatables, Kelsey Throwdown, cakewalk, bingo, balloon artist, face painting and fire truck. A silent auction and raffle will include a life-size Chiefs helmet signed by Patrick Mahomes. Tickets can be purchased online at: divinemercyks. org/ff-tickets.
SIXTH ANNUAL STRAWBERRY HILL GOLF
TOURNAMENT
Sunflower Hills Golf Course
12200 Riverview Ave, Bonner Springs Oct. 6 - 1 p.m. shotgun start
Dinner and refreshments will be provided. The cost is $100/player until Sept. 15; $125/player after. Contact Carol Shomin at (913) 897-4833 or by email at: cshomin@ everestkc.net
HOLY SPIRIT GOLF OUTING
Heritage Park Golf Course
16447 Constance St., Olathe
Oct. 6 at 9 a.m.
The Holy Spirit Knights of Columbus will host a golf outing. It will be a four-person best ball with shotgun start. Green fees, cart, two beverage tickets and barbecue lunch catered by Mr. P’s are all included for $75 per golfer. Call Greg Davis at (913) 800-0581 to register or Everett Fritz at (913) 831-8097 to discuss hole sponsorship opportunities. Proceeds benefit the three seminarians at Holy Spirit Parish.
THE MARRIAGE COURSE
St. Joseph Church
(online and at-home options available)
5901 Flint St., Shawnee
From Oct. 7 to Nov. 18
The Marriage Course is a seven-week
course designed for married couples of all ages to help build, strengthen and continue to grow as a couple. The course aims to equip participants with tools to build a healthy marriage and to strengthen the connection between a couple – or to restore that connection if it’s lost. To sign up, Google “Communion Marriage Course Shawnee.”
FALL MORNING OF REFLECTION
Alvin Brooks Center for Faith-Justice 5401 Troost Ave., Kansas City, Missouri Oct. 18 from 9 a.m. to noon
Join us as Father Stephen Hess, SJ, vice president for mission and ministry at Rockhurst University in Kansas City, Missouri, leads us in a morning of imaginative prayer and Ignatian contemplation. Coffee and breakfast are provided. For more information and to register, go online to: www.ignatiancenterkc.org/events/2025/ fallmorning.
PRO-LIFE DINNER
Fiorella’s Event Space
9000 W. 137th St., Overland Park Oct. 21 from 6 to 9 p.m.
The cost of $100 per person includes the social, dinner and keynote speech by Seth Dillon, CEO of Babylon Bee. All proceeds benefit the Vitae Foundation. For additional information, contact Lisa Barnett at: lisa.barnett@vitaefoundation.org.
GRIEFSHARE
Divine Mercy Church
555 W. Main St., Gardner Thursdays 6:30 - 8 p.m.
Ongoing through Oct. 23
Divine Mercy Parish is partnering with GriefShare to host a bereavement support group which will run for 13 weeks. There is a recommended participant guide that is available for $15 (to be paid at the first meeting) but it is not required. Hear insights from experts and meet others who understand what you are going through. Register online at: griefshare.org/find agroup.
SEASONS OF HOPE
Sts. Peter and Paul Parish 411 Pioneer, Seneca
Sundays at 5 p.m.
Seasons of Hope is a Christ-centered support group that is a nurturing link to the church, the Almighty and anyone of faith who is mourning. Those mourning a loss are invited to come and bring a guest. For more information, call or text: Julie Strathman at (785) 294-8360; Roger Becker at (785) 364-6393; or Janet Hermesch at (785) 294-0779.
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.
EXPERIENCE A COMMUNITY WITH HEART
Santa Marta Retirement Community 13800 W. 116th St., Olathe Wednesdays from 1 - 2:30 p.m.
Join us and enjoy a small sample of what life is like at our community. On Walkin Wednesdays, learn about the Santa Marta community. To RSVP or find a complete list of our upcoming events, call (913) 489-2683 or visit the website at: Santa MartaRetirement.com/Events.
EMPLOYMENT
Client intake coordinator - At Two Lines Pregnancy Clinic, we believe in unexpected care — the kind that shows up with compassion, insight and love when someone needs it most. We’re a faith-driven organization committed to serving women and families with dignity, excellence and hope. We’re currently seeking a client intake coordinator to join our team in Leawood. If you thrive in a fast-paced, meaningful environment where your work makes a tangible difference, this may be the opportunity you’ve been praying for. In this role, you’ll be at the heart of our client experience. You’ll welcome clients, guide them through the intake process and help ensure that every woman and family who walks through our doors is met with excellence, dignity and care. Key responsibilities: Greet and guide clients through their initial visit. Manage intake forms and scheduling with accuracy and care. Maintain a peaceful, professional and welcoming environment. Collaborate with team members to ensure seamless client services. Uphold the values and mission of Two Lines Pregnancy Clinic in every interaction. Ideal candidate: Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Highly organized and able to multitask in a dynamic setting. Compassionate, calm and confident under pressure. Experience in client services, ministry, or administrative roles is a plus. Bilingual a plus. A heart for serving others and a commitment to our faith-based mission. If you’re passionate about making a difference and want to be part of a team that shows up with love every day, we’d love to hear from you. To apply, email resume and cover letter to: AndreaC@ twolineskc.com.
Part-time custodian - St. Patrick School is seeking a dedicated part-time custodian to join our school community. This position is approximately 20 hours per week, with flexible scheduling options. Responsibilities include: Maintaining a clean, safe and welcoming school environment. Assisting with daily cleaning of classrooms, restrooms, hallways and common areas. Supporting setup and cleanup for school events and activities. Performing light maintenance tasks as needed. Qualifications: Reliability and attention to detail. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Prior custodial or maintenance experience preferred. Commitment to supporting the mission and values of a Catholic school environment. We offer a supportive, faith-filled community and a positive workplace. To apply, send resume and references to: cfithian@stpatrickkck.org.
Parish communications and office coordinator Holy Spirit Parish in Overland Park is looking for an organized, creative person of faith to manage parish communications (bulletin, website, social media) and provide welcoming administrative support. Full-time, hourly position. Send a cover letter and resume to the parish manager Shaw Leach at: sleach@hscatholic. org. Full job description online at: www.hscatholic.org/ employment-opportunities.
Religious education coordinator - St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood is seeking a part-time religious education coordinator to support the director of religious education (a religious Sister) with organizing and implementing catechesis in grades K-6. Candidates must have a solid understanding of the Catholic faith and an aptitude for sharing that knowledge with children and adult volunteers. Must have excellent organizational and oral/written communication skills. Additional details at: stmichaelcp.org/ employment. Send resume and cover letter to: denise. greene@stmichaelcp.org or call (913) 402-3984.
Principal - Lead a school where hearts meet the heart of Jesus! Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish school in Shawnee, a vibrant Catholic preK-8th grade school of 400 students, is seeking a faith-filled, mission-driven principal to lead our community in partnership with the pastor and parish and school leadership teams. Rooted in our parish mission to put hearts on a collision-course with the Sacred Heart of Jesus and guided by our five foundation stones — eucharistic encounters, reconciliation, Scripture, fasting and the rosary — our school exists to form students in spiritual maturity, academic excellence and a life of joyful service. We strive to live our core values of being unapologetically Catholic, showing grit and serving as joyful servants. If you are ready to inspire faith, lead with vision, drive cultural change and form the next generation of saints and scholars, we invite you to apply at this link: http://archkckcs.org/apply. Full job description can be found at: https://shoj.org/ employment-opportunities.
Head track coach - Bishop Miege High School is seeking a head track coach for the 2025-26 school year. Previous track coaching experience required. Contact Joe Schramp, athletic director, at: jschramp@ bishopmiege.com or (913) 222-5802.
Director of Marillac Retreat and Spirituality Center
- Lead our retreat center in the spirit of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth, offering prayer, peace, hope and transformation. Oversee staff, programs and operations while maintaining Catholic identity and welcoming all. Strategic vision, team leadership and budget management required. Master’s in theology, spirituality or related field and 5+ years’ leadership experience preferred. Some evening/weekend flexibility needed. Resume and cover letter required Join a mission-driven, collaborative team serving spiritual needs. Apply at: www.scls.org/employees.
Administrative assistant - COME JOIN OUR TEAM!
A small family-owned company located in Lenexa is looking for an assistant to answer phones, invoicing, vendor relations, some shipping/receiving and assist in the sales process. We need a team member who is organized, detail-oriented, self-motivated, trustworthy, has a positive attitude and, above all else, gives excellent customer service. Schedule flexibility. Send your resume to: YourCareer101@gmail.com or call (913) 6313000. Please call me with any questions.
Receptionist - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking to hire a part-time receptionist to be responsible for operating the main switchboard, receiving all calls and visitors to the chancery, sorting mail and other clerical duties as assigned. Please visit “Employment Opportunities” on the bottom of the archdiocesan website at: archkck.org for more information or to apply.
Video/multimedia marketing specialist - Are you an expert storyteller who loves creating impactful, compelling visual messages? Do you have 1-3 years of video, photography and graphic design experience? Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas is now hiring a video/multimedia marketing specialist to spread our mission of providing help, hope and hospitality to the most vulnerable in our communities. Learn more and apply at: catholiccharitiesks.org/careers.
In-home care assistant - We are looking for an engaging in-home caregiver for our son with special needs in western Shawnee. He loves music, interacting with others, reading books and is learning new life skills. Help needed on Wednesday and Friday evenings and on weekends at $17/hr. Please call (785) 393-1589.
Mother’s helper needed - We will soon have 7 kids 10 and under and are looking for a strong, reliable helper for Mom. Shared tasks include: homework help, meal prep, light cleaning, laundry, kids transportation, etc. Hours: 2-9 p.m. M-F, from Nov. - Jan., then 3:30-7:30 p.m. thereafter. Start at end of September. Flexibility to help on days off school needed, too. Email for more info at: holly.hartong@gmail.com.
Nurse manager - Full-time (32 hours/week), on-site in Overland Park. At Two Lines Pregnancy Clinic, we know the heartbeat of compassionate care begins with those who lead it. We’re looking for a nurse manager — someone who brings not only strong clinical expertise, but the calm confidence and care it takes to lead a medical team with excellence, grace and purpose. This role isn’t just about doing the work of nursing — it’s about leading those who do. It’s about creating a steady, professional and peaceful atmosphere for both clients and staff. You’ll be the go-to for clinical operations, ensuring our services meet the highest standards of care, while also mentoring and supporting the nurses who serve on the front lines every day. This is a leadership role for the nurse who sees their calling not only in client care, but in caring for the caregivers. About you: You’re a licensed RN with a BSN and experience managing a nursing team. You’re organized, clear-headed and calm in busy or sensitive situations. You love supporting and developing others — especially in a mission-driven setting. You bring both high standards and a gentle spirit to your leadership. You’re passionate about walking with women in tender, life-changing moments. You’re a person of faith who leads from a place of humility and integrity. Send resumes to: AndreaC@twolineskc.com.
Director of mission outreach and development - Catholic Community Health is seeking a dynamic, mission-driven leader to serve in this pivotal role responsible for expanding our external presence and securing critical funding to support our mission. As the sole lead for external integration and fundraising, you’ll drive community engagement, build strategic partnerships and lead all development efforts across parishes, dioceses and aligned organizations. The ideal candidate will be a self-starter, passionate about faith-based outreach and energized by the opportunity to make a transformative impact through community connection and development. If interested, please send resume to Kendra Unruh at: kunruh@ CatholicCommunityHealth.org.
Director of youth ministry - Curé of Ars in Leawood is seeking a full-time director of youth ministry who will lead the youth closer to Christ. This position will be dedicated to forming 5th-8th grade and high school students with the good news of Jesus Christ. For more information about this position, please see the job posting on the church website at: www.cureofars. com/careers. Resumes can be sent to Bernadette Myers, director of parish faith formation, at: bernadette myers@cureofars.com.
Small equipment cleaning/repair - A locally owned family business is currently seeking part-time candidates to provide cleaning and repair services on microscopes. Expenses paid, work done in the field and each day is different! No previous experience necessary, on-the-job training provided. Needs to be detail-oriented team player, with good time management and customer service skills. Some travel with the team is required. Please contact us at: techneeded23@ gmail.com or call (913) 631-3000.
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.
Youth minister - St. Francis de Sales Church in Lansing has an opening for a part-time youth minister. This position will develop curriculum and plan onand off-site youth activities alongside the director of faith formation. They will also promote the spiritual, personal and social development of youth, while maintaining frequent communication with parents and adult leaders. Ability to effectively communicate, provide guidance and support and plan and organize events are essential. Experience working with youth in a church setting preferred. Attendance at Sunday evening sessions is expected. Some other work can be completed remotely. Job requires some overnight stays. Contact Carolyn Klemp at: business manager@stfrancislansing.org or (913) 727-3742 to request a job application.
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.
Catholic elementary school principal - St. Matthew School in Topeka is seeking a dynamic and visionary leader with a passion for Catholic education. The principal will continue the school’s tradition of forming disciples, pursuing academic excellence and spiritual growth. The principal will lead by example and inspire a team of dedicated faculty and staff. Applicants must have or be eligible for Kansas licensure in educational leadership. Apply online at: archkckcs. org/apply. For more information, contact Vince Cascone at: vcascone@archkckcs.org.
Faculty and adjunct faculty job openings - Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, is a Catholic college offering higher education for those who may not other- wise 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.
Music director - St. Joseph Church in Shawnee invites applications for the position of full-time director of music. St. Joseph is a large suburban parish that boasts a renovated church featuring an Allen 3-manual organ and Steinway piano. The director of music will oversee all musical aspects of parish liturgical events, including five weekend Masses, solemnities, feasts and special occasions. Responsibilities encompass directing four choirs, supervising four paid organists and scheduling all music ministers. Candidates should demonstrate a strong Roman Catholic faith, deep knowledge of liturgy and exceptional proficiency in keyboard playing, conducting and voice development. This role requires proactive leadership, effective communication and a passion for nurturing spiritual growth through music. Interested applicants are encouraged to send their resume to: mthomas@ stjoeshawnee.org or call (913) 248-4562.
Associate director of music - The Church of the Nativity Parish and School in Leawood seek a full-time associate director of music to join our team. The associate director of music collaborates with the director of music and our pastor to oversee the liturgical life of the parish and lead our community in song at Masses, sacramental celebrations and other liturgies and parish events. A deep love of Jesus Christ and an authentic desire to support our community’s full, conscious and active participation in the liturgy animate the ministry carried out by the associate director of music. Qualified candidates will possess strong organ and piano accompaniment ability, experience working with cantors and choirs, outstanding communication skills, a passion for excellence and a desire to collaborate with the director of music in all areas of the music ministry program. Competitive salary and benefits are offered commensurate with experience. For a full job description and application instructions, please visit: https://kcnativity.org/ employment-music-ministry.
Catholic financial planners - The Knights of Columbus Mahon Agency has openings throughout all of NE Kansas and western Missouri, including Kansas City, Topeka, Holton, Wamego, Lawrence, Gardner, Liberty and Chillicothe. We have much to offer professional, disciplined and determined men who would like to share needed life insurance, disability income, longterm care and annuity products with other Catholics. This is a full-time position with excellent, multi-tiered training and benefits, allowing the successful field agent to earn a professional level income. It’s an exciting career opportunity that may be the right fit at the right time for you, or someone you know. For more information, contact John Mahon at (785) 4088800, or john.mahon@kofc.org.
SERVICES
Popcorn ceiling texture removal
Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144. 30 years’ experience. Interior painting specialist. Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.
Joe’s Decks & More
Deck and fence repair, mowing and handyman services
Member of St. Joseph in Shawnee (913) 449-9848
Tutoring - Fall tutoring available from experienced teacher and tutor. Tutor teaches in a fun and meaningful context. For more info, please call/text Kathleen at (913) 206-2151; email: klmamuric@yahoo.com.
Pure Touch Cleaning KC
Summer’s dust out, Autumn’s fresh in! Make your home clean, fresh & cozy this fall. We’ll clear away summer’s dust so you can enjoy a warm, inviting space all season long. Family-friendly, reliable & professional. Call and book today! (913) 999-6267.
Garage door sales, service and installation - Repair broken springs and cables. 40 years of experience. 24-hour service. Call Tim at (816) 946-9990.
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.
Two men and a brush - Refresh, repaint, renew your home with painting you can trust! Call for a free estimate on your house, deck or fence! Call John at (402) 763-7244.
GARAGE DOOR REPAIR EXPERTS
New Garage Doors & Openers A Total Door, Inc. Since ’83. Leaven Discount buffy@atotaldoor.com or (913) 236-6440 www.atotaldoor.com
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.
!!Early 2025 painting discount!! - At Stone Painting we offer interior and exterior house painting services. Check out our work at: www.stonepaintingkc.com.
Double A’s Lawn Service Lawn mowing, Mulching, Gutters, Leaf Removal Brush Removal & Hedge Trimming Free Estimates & Insured
Alex Spoerre (913) 488-5195
Aluminum wheelchair ramp - Sales and installation customized to your needs. Serving all of northeast Kansas. Call McCourt Construction at (785) 224-4961. MIKE HAMMER MOVING - A full-service mover. Local and long-distance moving. Packing, pianos, rental truck load/unload, storage container load/unload. In-home moving and office moves. No job too small. Serving the KC metro since 1987. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, parishioner. Call the office at (913) 927-4347 or email: mike@mikehammermoving.com.
Jack Harrison Heating & Air Conditioning - Proudly serving Johnson County, Kansas, parts of KCK and KCMO, we’re your trusted local experts in residential and light commercial HVAC. Whether you need a repair, seasonal tuneup or full system replacement, we’ve got you covered — with honest advice, quality work and friendly service. We’re a family-owned and operated company, rooted in the community as members of St. Paul Parish in Olathe. Call Jack Harrison Heating & Air today at (913) 308-3131 or visit: www. JackHarrisonAir.com to schedule online. Let our family take care of yours!
TOTAL HOME REPAIR
All aspects of interior home repairs. Retired master plumber. Professional interior painting, general repairs, tile work. Handyman services. Lifetime of experience. Army veteran. Ascension parishioner. (913) 488-4930
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.
CONCIERGE DR.S NOW FREE WITH HSA TAX SAVINGS FROM NEW BUDGET BILL! Randal Brown, MD Internal Medicine/Gastroenterology
Announcing a new Catholic-based medical practice now open in Prairie Village at Corinth Square (83rd and Mission Rd). I offer 25 years of private practice experience in general and subspecialty care. We promise to utilize the U.S. bishops’ directives for authentic Catholic health care. Book your appointment directly through my website at: direct-catholichealthcare.com or email me with any questions at: brownrandal@icloud.com.
FOR SALE
For sale - Temple Stuart dining set. Hutch, table, 6 chairs (2 captain, 4 regular), dry sink, server/bar, 2 leaves. Call Mike at (913) 764-3241 for dimensions and interest. Located in Olathe.
For sale - Two cemetery plots at Johnson County Memorial Gardens in the Garden of Apostles, lot 213, spaces 1 and 2. Valued at $9750, asking $3750 per lot for a total of $7500 or best offer. Call Bailey at (913) 449-4699.
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Small farm/business operation opportunity - STA Home Repair is moving to another state. Looking to sell property and business assets: 1955 Oregon Road, Princeton, Kansas. 3 buildings, 1 Barndo/Shop, RV hookups – 200 Amp service with portable heat and AC – office, kitchen area – 10-foot garage door and entry door, 1 cabin with wood stove and AC/shop, 1 pole barn, 2 sinks, 1 shower, 1 toilet, stocked pond, boat and equipment storage over half fenced, multiple gardens, minifarm, bring the horses. Great for contractor with trailers, 25-30 minutes to Gardner or intermodal facility; 35-40 minutes to Olathe and Overland Park; and less than 10 minutes to Ottawa. Close to the Hillsdale and Pomona lakes. Asking $290,000. Cash and/or pre-approved financing. Showing by appointment only. Text name and number to (913) 579-1835.
For sale - Single plot for sale at Resurrection Cemetery 83rd and Quivira, Lenexa. Fee of $250 waved for transfer which will be paid by owner. Lot is in Queen of Heaven. Price drop also to $1800. Contact Jody at: jagstanton@gmail.com or (816) 591-0826.
For sale - Reversed 1.5 story close to St. James Academy. 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, separate office space, 3-car garage, screened in porch. Many recent upgrades to home. Call (913) 908-7343 if interested. Buyer’s agents are welcome.
For sale - One cemetery plot located in Lenexa at Resurrection Cemetery, 83rd St. and Quivira Rd. Location lot 116, section A, space 4. Asking $2000. Buyer pays transfer fee of $250. Contact Terry at (913) 888-9590 or email: terryhensel22@gmail.com.
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)
CAREGIVING
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.
Caregiver - 40 years of experience — a.m., p.m. and evening sessions available. Call Ophelia at (913) 5797276 or Rhonda at (913) 279-1281.
Caregiver - Homecare CNA with 15 years’ experience. Monday-Friday. Call (913) 526-0797.
HOME IMPROVEMENT
Haus to Home Remodeling - Transform your space with affordable remodeling done right. Bathrooms, basements and everything in between — crafted with honesty and quality. Family-owned with free estimates. Haustohomekc.com | Cole (913) 544-7352.
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!
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.
PILGRIMAGE
Mexico pilgrimage - Feb. 9-14, 2026. A spiritual journey to the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe and other sacred sites rich in Catholic faith and history. Experience daily Mass, prayer and inspiring visits to beautiful churches and holy places. Strengthen your faith and be renewed in a land alive with devotion. Contact Father Bill McEvoy at: Fr.Wm.McEvoy@gmail. com for details.
Pilgrimage to Medjugorje - Dec. 27. 2025, to Jan. 3, 2026. $2895 per person, which includes airfare, bus transportation, accommodations, 2 meals/day and daily local guide. Hosted by visionary Mirjana Soldo. For details, email Grace Legaspi at: mgracelegaspi@ gmail.com.
WANTED TO BUY
Will buy firearms and related accessories - One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee.
Wanted to buy
Do you have a spare car or truck that you need to get rid of? If you do, CALL ME!
I’m a cash buyer. We’re Holy Trinity parishioners. My name is Mark. (913) 980-4905.
$$Paying Cash$$ - Antique Furniture, crocks, tin and cast iron toys, old tools, glassware, American coins, jewelry. Most anything old. Please call Patricia at (913) 515-2950. A member of Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa.
Wanted to buy - Antiques & Collectibles: jewelry, military items, railroad, sterling, OLD holiday/toys and more. Renee Maderak (913) 475-7393. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.
REAL ESTATE
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.
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.
DAILY READINGS
TWENTY-FIFTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME
Sept. 21
TWENTY-FIFTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Am 8: 4-7
Ps 113: 1-2, 4-8
1 Tm 2: 1-8
Lk 16: 1-13
Sept. 22
Monday
Ezr 1: 1-6
Ps 126: 1b-6
Lk 8: 16-18
Sept. 23
Pius of Pietrelcina, priest
Ezr 6: 7-8, 12b, 14-20
Ps 122: 1-5
Lk 8: 19-21
Sept. 24
Wednesday
Ezr 9: 5-9 (Ps) Tb 13: 2-4, 7-8 Lk 9: 1-6
Sept. 25
Thursday
Hg 1: 1-8
Ps 149: 1b-6a, 9b Lk 9: 7-9
Sept. 26
Cosmas and Damian, martyrs
Hg 2: 1-9
Ps 43: 1-4
Lk 9: 18-22
Sept. 27
Vincent de Paul, priest
Zec 2: 5-9, 14-15a (Ps) Jer 31: 10-12b, 13
Lk 9: 43b-45
LUDMILLA c. 860-921
Married to Borivoy, founder of a dynasty, she became a Christian after he was baptized by St. Methodius in 874. They had six children and built the first church in Bohemia, now in the Czech Republic. But they were embroiled in the political storms of their family and region. Ludmilla had assumed the care and education of her grandson Wenceslas, but his mother Drahomira resented her influence and took him away. Widowed in 894, Ludmilla retired to a country castle. She was strangled there, possibly by henchmen of Drahomira or pagan nobles.
It’s those “unguarded” photos that give you a realistic glimpse of yourself. Several recent baptism photos posted online have shown me that “what the chasuble (the colorful outer garment worn by the priest) hides at Mass, the alb and stole I wear at baptisms do not.”
What I’m saying is that I’m now “twice the man” I was when I was in high school. Or put another way, I’ve turned my temple of the Holy Spirit into a major basilica. I literally see what my primary care physician regularly talks to me about a “weighty” issue: the dangers of lack of exercise and poor eating habits. Thank goodness it’s September, which has been observed as Self-Improvement Month since 1988. I bet you can guess a couple of areas I’ll be addressing!
I eat out way too much. One reason for that is I enjoy sharing meals with friends.
I used to grow up, now I grow out
MARK MY WORDS
FATHER MARK GOLDASICH
Father
The other reasons are I’m afraid I’ll poison myself if I actually cook something; too many dishes are dirtied in the preparation of food which then takes only minutes to gobble down; I don’t have — or know — most of the ingredients mentioned in recipes; and it’s tough to cook for just one person. In order to improve my diet, I dug deep into my bookshelves
to resurrect some long-forgotten, and covered with dust, resources: “Serves One: Simple Meals to Savor When You’re on Your Own” by Toni Lydecker and “A Man, A Can, A Microwave: 50 Tasty Meals You Can Nuke in No Time” by David Joachim. The Joachim book even helpfully cautions “cooks” not to put the cans in the microwave. (I did know that!)
Starting this new adventure, I remember these words of Winston Churchill: “I am always ready to learn, although I do not always like being taught.” In fact, I envision myself much like
the young man in this story: Hank, a landscape contractor, had his first full-fledged job. Because he didn’t want to appear the rank amateur that he knew he was, he feigned a casual nonchalance and expertise. One of his first tasks for a farmer was blasting out a stump with dynamite. Since the farmer was watching, Hank went to some length to measure out the fuses and set the dynamite — just as if he really knew what he was doing. But his problem was he really didn’t know how much dynamite would be just right to do the job.
When he was all set up, he breathed a prayer that he had enough dynamite packed under the stump . . . and yet not too much to blow them all to kingdom come. The moment of truth came. Hank gave the farmer what he hoped was a confident thumbs-up and pushed down the plunger.
The stump rose
high in the air with a resounding BOOM, arched magnificently toward his pickup truck and landed right on the roof of the cab, demolishing it.
The farmer turned to Hank and said, “Son, you didn’t miss it by much, just a few feet. With a bit more practice, you’ll be able to land those suckers in the truck bed every time!” (Story found in “Illustrations Unlimited,” edited by James S. Hewitt.)
Just so you won’t worry, I have put the Tonganoxie Fire Department on alert as I hone my culinary skills.
Oh, by the way, the exercise portion of my self-improvement venture is simple and twofold: 1) push away from the table; and 2) get out and walk now that the weather is more comfortable. I’ve already got the workout clothes, shoes and audiobooks . . . now I just need the will power.
Pray for me!
Faith gives us the freedom from fear we need to give generously
In his “Second Homily on Lazarus,” St. John Chrysostom said that the “rich man is a kind of steward of the money which is owed for distribution to the poor.” That is how the Christian is meant to view his or her wealth. That’s what you’re meant to do with it — to share it.
He thought it obvious that one’s wealth should be shared, that there is no alternative, save the judgment of God. “For our money is the Lord’s,” he taught, “however we may have gathered it.” To those who are rich, or who simply have more than they need: “This is why God allowed you to
have more” — to give it to the poor, to help others, he said. Not that I exactly
share Chrysostom’s exacting fiscal morality, much less live up to it. I simply point to Chrysostom’s preaching to underline Jesus’ teaching in Luke’s Gospel. I do dare anyone, however, to read Luke alongside saints like Chrysostom or, say, the Cappadocians; it will indeed disturb whatever calm you may have had reading Luke. Our parable is complicated, difficult at some points to follow. For the past several chapters in Luke, Jesus has been teaching his disciples about what not to fear and whom to fear (Lk 12:4-7). He’s told them not to be anxious, to rely not on their own power or their
own wealth but first on God (Lk 12:22-30).
And, of course, free from fear, liberated from that stinginess that comes with worrying about the things of this world, the follower of Jesus should discover that he or she has a little bit of surplus, maybe a little more discretionary income. What to do with it?
Here’s where Jesus, the good rabbi, simply underlines the wisdom of ancient Jewish charity, telling his disciples to sell their possessions and give alms, which is to store up “treasure in the heavens that does not fail” (Lk 12:33). Freed from the fear that makes a person selfishly hoard,
now with faith, the believer shares what he or she has with the poor. And thus charity becomes the beginning of heaven.
It is one of the more complicated parables the Lord tells, yet we are already familiar with the moral of it. “I tell you,” Jesus says, “make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous mammon, so that when it fails, they may receive you into the eternal habitations” (Lk 16:9). This is but another way to talk about storing up treasure in heaven; this is the ethical point of the story: that giving alms, for the Christian, is an unavoidable obligation.
Crying out to God can be sign of hope, not crisis of faith, pope says
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Crying out to God during moments of extreme trial does not mark a crisis of faith but can reflect an act of total surrender to and enduring trust in God, Pope Leo XIV said. “In the journey of life, there are moments in which keeping something inside can slowly consume us,” the pope told people gathered in St. Peter’s Square Sept. 10 for his weekly general audience.
“Jesus teaches us not to be afraid to cry out, as long as it is sincere, humble, addressed to the Father,” he said. “A cry is never pointless if it is born of love, and it is never ignored if it is delivered to God,” he added. “It is a way to not give in to cynicism, to continue to believe that another world is possible.”
“We are accustomed to thinking of crying out as something disorderly, to be repressed,” the pope
continued. However, “the Gospel confers an immense value to our cry, reminding us that it can be an invocation, a protest, a desire, a surrender,” even an “extreme form of prayer, when there are no words left.” If one’s cry is genuine, he said, then “the suffering voice of our humanity, united with the voice of Christ, can become a source of hope for us and for those around us.”
FATHER JOSHUA J. WHITFIELD
Father Joshua J. Whitfield is pastor of St. Rita Catholic Community in Dallas and author of “The Crisis of Bad Preaching” and other books.
Mark is the pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie. He has been editor of The Leaven since 1989.
How to hear God’s voice? Formation opportunities abound
One common request of the more than 1,700 campers at Camp Tekakwitha in Williamsburg this summer was a request that went something like this: “I want to follow God; can you teach me to pray and hear God?” The answer is yes.
God can be heard, recognized and encountered in many ways, including through meditation on Scripture, lectio divina (“divine reading”), and visio divina (“divine seeing”). The Mass is the source and summit of our faith and full of prayerfilled encounters. The Liturgy of the Hours
We are excited about the new school year starting and the increased interest that families are having about providing a Catholic education for their children. We are challenged by the extra funding that is needed to support every request. The Catholic Education Foundation (CEF) has never turned away a child needing a scholarship and doesn’t want that trend to end.
SEEKING CHRIST’S HEART
DEACON
DANA
Deacon Dana
and rosary bring peace and enlightenment to millions. Eucharistic adoration is a powerful time of prayer.
There are many other great ways to pray, including getting on your knees and pouring out your heart, but the more complex part of the question is what does God sound like.
In the Catholic tradition, hearing God’s voice is understood most often through discernment, less
commonly as a direct audible voice, and frequently as an interior movement confirmed by prayer, Scripture and the teachings of the church. The process involves distinguishing divine guidance from that of the world, Satan and our own will. We have to discern what we hear, sense and feel.
Father Mike Schmitz says that we need to ask: 1) Does it contradict Scripture? 2) Does it contradict the church? 3) Does it sound like someone untrustworthy? He further says, when we then prayerfully act on it, we must assess the fruits.
Keep in mind when
God’s voice convicts, it is out of love, calls for repentance and closeness to him, whereas the enemy’s voice heaps on shame and guilt and creates distance from our loving Father.
Cardinal Robert Sarah says in his book “The Power of Silence”: “At the heart of man, there is an innate silence, for God abides in the innermost part of every person. God is silence, and this divine silence dwells in man. In God, we are inseparably bound up with silence,” and he later says: “Nothing will make us discover God better than his silence inscribed in the center of our being.”
Gaudeamus gala honors Msgr. Thomas Tank
A record number of scholarships and scholarship funding is needed to meet all the need. Over 1,800 children are in need of CEF scholarships in order to continue their Catholic education. In addition, over 280 children are currently on a waiting list in need
Pof financial assistance scholarships in order to attend a Catholic school for the very first time. In total, CEF will need to provide over 2,000 scholarships totaling over $5.6 million. This is a $600,000 increase over last year’s scholarship needs.
There is a potential solution to this challenge. On Nov. 1, CEF will be honoring Msgr. Tom Tank at its annual Gaudeamus dinner. Msgr. Tank is nothing short of a saint. He has created many special programs for our archdiocese, including Camp Tekakwitha, Men Under Construction, Catholic Housing of Wyandotte County (now called Community Housing of Wyandotte County) and Villa St. Francis, just to name a few.
He also has served as vicar general, pastor of the Church of the Ascension, rector of St. Peter Cathedral and was the first pastor at Church of
the Nativity. He was also a chaplain and teacher at Bishop Ward, which is a CEF school. This year’s Gaudeamus has a special challenge sponsor. Any new donations to CEF’s Sponsor a Child program and any increase a donor makes over last year’s Gaudeamus donation will be matched. Donors do not have to attend Gaudeamus to have their gift matched, but they do need to give online at: cefgala.org; mail to CEF’s office; or call the CEF main line at (913) 647-0344. The match will go as high as $1 million!
Gaudeamus is one of the most unique and
To sharpen your discernment acumen:
For women, a great way to discern God’s voice is at Camp Tekakwitha’s women’s retreat (www.archkck. org/camp), Oct. 24-26 held at beautiful Prairie Star Ranch.
Other great formation opportunities can be explored on our website at: www. archkck.org/oe.
On Nov. 1, the Catholic Education Foundation (CEF) will hold Gaudeamus. It enables CEF to make Catholic education possible for those most in need.
To give the gift of Catholic learning and discernment to a child in need, go online to: www.cefgala.org.
powerful dinners in the community. Over 1,200 guests attend every year to hear from a CEF student speaker and a CEF family whose lives and faith have been significantly changed due to receiving CEF scholarships. The dinner also includes a celebration for the school that earns CEF’s Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann School of Excellence Award. Many CEF students also attend to thank guests. All the proceeds from Gaudeamus help CEF fund scholarships for many children who otherwise would not be able to attend a Catholic school.
Upcoming midterms will bring important votes in Kansas
ope Leo recently addressed and encouraged elected officials from around the world to “infuse the earthly society with the values of God’s kingdom” in order to allow for “authentic human flourishing.”
Few Catholics probably think of elected officials as channels of “human flourishing”! But politicians, like each of us, have a role to play in this great humanitarian mission.
The Catholic Church has a rich history of engaging in civic activity on behalf of “the common good.” The role of the church is also that of properly forming each person’s conscience,
CHURCH AND STATE
then providing authentic information to better help each Catholic fulfill their obligation to engage in faithful citizenship.
With that brief
background, here is an overview of what Kansas Catholics should know about what’s happening in the world of politics and policy.
The opening of the 2026 Kansas legislative session is still four months away, but the political season is in full swing as we enter an
election year.
Statewide seats to be decided upon in 2026 include Kansas governor, attorney general, secretary of state, insurance commissioner and state treasurer. Campaigns are underway.
Each elected position is important, but the governor’s seat is perhaps the most consequential. Gov. Laura Kelly is completing her second and final term. Several candidates from both major parties have declared their intentions to run.
Every Kansas state representative seat is up for election. On the federal level, every congressional representative seat is up for election. U.S. Sen. Roger
Marshall’s seat is up for election.
Next August, there will be a historic statewide ballot measure to determine how Kansas appoints state Supreme Court justices. Few realize that the current judicial selection process in Kansas is unlike any other in the United States. The results of this election will have a profound impact for decades to come.
To learn more about 2026 campaigns, go online to: www.kansas catholic.org, then click on the “Issues” tab to find Campaign 2026.
The Kansas Catholic Conference does not endorse or otherwise engage in political campaigns. Our role is
advocating for policies reflecting Catholic thinking and the common good.
Issues of importance include defending and protecting women and their preborn children; justice for the migrant; educational opportunities for children from low-income or minority families; access to adequate health care; basic nutrition for the underprivileged; and many others.
This is but a partial list where we seek to answer Pope Leo’s call “to infuse the earthly society with the values of God’s kingdom” in order to allow for “authentic human flourishing.”
We persevere!
CEF CENTERED
VINCENT ANCH
Vince Anch is the executive director of the Catholic Education Foundation.
CHUCK WEBER
Chuck Weber is the executive director of the Kansas Catholic Conference.
NEARMYER
Nearmyer is the director of evangelization for the archdiocese.
ARCHBISHOP MCKNIGHT ON THE MOVE
It’s been a busy summer for Archbishop Shawn McKnight as he’s made his way through the archdiocese with meetings, blessings and special occasions
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Archbishop McKnight blesses the new grotto at Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park. The project, which cost $800,000, was donated by the Dunn family in honor of parents Bill Sr. and Jean. It was built by JE Dunn Construction and designed by HTK Architects. The lead gift was given by Terry and Peggy Dunn, who are both alums and now have grandchildren in the school.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Archbishop McKnight hands off the football to the official at the start of the St. James-Bishop Miege game Sept. 5 and took part in the opening prayer. The game was the first ever in St. James’ new Marian Stadium. The St. James Thunder were victorious over the Miege Stags 24-0.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Donnelly College kicked off its new academic year on Aug. 26 with its annual convocation at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kansas. Archbishop McKnight celebrated Mass for the faculty and students with Msgr. Stuart Swetland (left), president of Donnelly College.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Archbishop McKnight chats with Karla and Tom Raupp at the Catholic Education Foundation kickoff on Aug. 20 as CEF director Vince Anch listens in. The Raupps’ daughter-in-law Courtney Raupp is on the CEF board.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
The annual Pregnancy Center Grant Recipient Luncheon was held on Aug. 19 with Archbishop McKnight and pro-life consultant, Debra Niesen, right. Every year, the pro-life office awards grants to local pregnancy help centers and maternity homes in the boundaries of the archdiocese. This year, grants were presented to: Birthright of Leavenworth; Birthright of Topeka; Family Life Services and Shiloh Home of Hope for Women in Emporia; Kansas City and Shawnee Pregnancy Clinics; Life Care Center for Women in Ottawa; Mary’s Choices in Topeka; Nativity House in Kansas City, Kansas; Pregnancy Resource Center in Atchison; Sparrow Women’s Clinic in Lansing; Two Lines in Overland Park; and Olathe and Wyandotte Pregnancy Clinics. The total grant money awarded was over $84,000.