WHERE PRAYER TAKES ROOT
Alumni return to Xavier for rosary garden blessing
By John Sorce john.sorce@theleaven.org
LEAVENWORTH — Three Xavier Elementary School students might have just graduated from here in May. But they came back this summer to ensure they had left a little bit of themselves behind.
Over the summer, three members of Xavier’s class of 2025 — Stella Bray, Celia Smith and Matthew Hood — and with permission from the high schools they would be attending, spearheaded a rosary garden on the school’s campus as their community service project.
The graduates then returned on Sept. 12 for a blessing by Father Glenn Snow, O. Carm., of Immaculate Conception-St. Joseph Parish, as well as to lead a rosary.
“Today, we gather to ask God’s blessing upon this rosary garden,” said Father Glenn at the blessing. “In this separate place set apart from the noise and traffic around us, may all who enter find rest for their spirits, peace for their hearts and strength for their journey of faith.”
After a reading from the Gospel of Matthew, he then sprinkled the garden with holy water and prayed.
“God of all creation, you planted the Garden of Eden as a place of beauty and
rest,” he said. “Your son Jesus sought the quiet of the hills to pray to you in silence. Bless this rosary garden, which we dedicate to you today. May it be a refuge for prayer, a space to reflect
upon your word and a sanctuary where your people find consolation and hope.
The three graduates then led a rosary, “walking” the beads from stone to stone in the garden.
Making an impact
Catholic high schools in the archdiocese require community service and many of them have shifted to specific projects that can make an impact rather than just an accumulation of hours.
But each student had to propose the project to their high schools to make sure it would fulfill that requirement.
Once they got that approval, they let Xavier principal Janelle Hartegan know this was where they wanted to leave their mark.
“It’s humbling,” Hartegan said. “There are many organizations where they could give their time. When you have students who choose to give back to their elementary school, it was ‘yes!’ “We work hard to instill that faith foundation and formation, and we pray
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Stella Bray (left) and Celia Smith, both St. James Academy, Lenexa, students and Xavier graduates, lead the program on Sept. 12 for a blessing of Xavier’s new rosary garden which the two, along with Xavier graduate and student at Maur Hill-Mount Academy Matthew Hood, helped construct on the school’s campus.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Matthew Hood, a freshman at Maur Hill-Mount Academy and Xavier School graduate, stands by Father Glenn Snow, O. Carm., pastor of Immaculate Conception-St. Joseph Parish in Leavenworth, as the latter blesses Xavier’s new rosary garden, which Hood helped construct.
Paulette (Prockish) and Richard Bellinder, members of St. Joseph Parish, Flush, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Oct. 4 at Flush. The couple was married on Sept. 27, 1975, at St. Joseph Church, Flush, by Father J.E. Biehler. Their children are: Richard Bellinder, Elizabeth Fewell, Amanda Linhardt, Derek Bellinder (deceased), Alexander Bellinder, Julie Rouland and Lynette Fordham. They also have 18 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Carol and Jim Kohake, members of Sts. Peter and Paul Parish, Seneca, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept. 27. The couple was married on Sept. 17, 1975, in Seneca. Their children are: David, Paul and Michael. They also have nine grandchildren.
John and Carol (Schultz) Flott, members of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Emporia, will celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary on Oct. 8. The couple was married on Oct. 8, 1960, at Sacred Heart. Their children are: Brian Flott and Kevin Flott. They have four granddaughters and two great-grandchildren. They celebrated with their family at an earlier date.
ANNIVERSARY SUBMISSIONS
POLICY: The Leaven prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th anniversary notices.
DEADLINE: 10 days before the desired publication date.
INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:
• The couple’s names
• their parish
• the date they were married
• church and city where they were married
• what they are doing to celebrate
• date of the celebration
• names of children (no spouses)
• number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; WHERE TO SUBMIT: Email: todd.habiger@theleaven.org.
ARCHBISHOP MCKNIGHT
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
Oct. 8
Confirmation — St. Joseph, Flush
ARCHBISHOP EMERITUS NAUMANN
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
Lenexa teacher’s online course helps parents face the challenges of social media INFORMATION OVERLOAD
By Olivia Martin-Davies olivia.martin@theleaven.org
LENEXA — No one is addicted to their weather app or banking app.
That’s a point Christine Lemmon, a parishioner of Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa, makes to grab her students’ attention.
She continues: Social media, on the other hand, is made to be addictive.
A mother of six and a computer science teacher at St. James Academy in Lenexa, Lemmon has seen over many years the profound impact social media has on kids and families.
Today, she invites her students to think critically about the time they spend on their phones and how it affects them — and she works to educate parents on how they can do the same with their families.
“Every time I talk to a parent group, somebody says, ‘Could you come to my house and help me do this with my kids?’” said Lemmon.
Then, she realized that while she couldn’t physically visit everyone’s homes, virtually, she could.
Lemmon recently created an online course called “Raising Kids in a Digital World: Your Social Media Guide” on Udemy.com that offers a fivestep plan to help families have conversations about social media.
“It’s not about fear,” Lemmon said. “It’s about giving kids life skills — the same way we teach them to cross the road or drive a car.
“Big Tech has a very intentional plan for your child. I want parents to have one, too.”
The reality facing families
The average American spends over five hours looking at their phone each day. For Gen-Z, this number is closer to six-and-a-half hours.
A 2024 study conducted by the Pew Research Center found that “[m]ore than half of teens (ages 13 to 17) visit YouTube and TikTok at least daily, with some saying they’re on the sites ‘almost constantly.’”
“These apps are designed like gambling,” Lemmon
explained. “They’re built to trigger the same pathways in your brain that keep you coming back.”
Kids themselves feel dependence on social media is a problem.
“A senior in my AP computer science class once said to me he wants parents to know it’s hard out here,” said Lemmon.
“Your kids want you to talk to them about it.”
Usage that creates encounter
While the reality of the toll social media can take is scary, Lemmon does not think completely warding it off is the answer.
”I want to be out there (on social media) enough that I can be my kids’ accountability,” she said. “It’s huge with anything
in which you’re trying to find balance. It’s the reason we have trainers and money managers.”
She added that being on social media helps give her context for what is going on in her kids’ lives, too.
“Social media is like a language, and I want to speak the language that my kids use to communicate with each other,” Lemmon asserted.
With its ability to shape
To sign up for this online course and get more than 50% off, go online to: www. udemy.com. In the search bar, type in “Raising Kids in a Digital World.” Use coupon code “THANKYOU20.”
minds and hearts, social media has the potential to deepen users’ faith, too.
This is exactly what Pope Leo XIV reminded his audience during his July 2025 address to Catholic digital missionaries and influencers.
“Today, we find ourselves in a new culture, deeply characterized and formed by technology. It is up to us . . . to ensure that this culture remains human,” said the pope.
“It is not simply a matter of generating content,” he added, “but of creating an encounter of hearts.”
Steps to take
The first step to having a better relationship with technology is having open, honest conversations as a family.
“It doesn’t take a big overhaul,” said Lemmon. “Start small. Focus on one or two problem areas. Be honest with your kids about what’s hard for you, too. That honesty builds trust.”
A simple step to improve the content kids see in their apps’ feeds is to have them train their algorithms by following accounts that have the keyword “catholic.”
But perhaps the most important step is the one parents take themselves.
“We used to tell parents, ‘Make sure when your child walks into the room, your face lights up,’” she said.
“Now we have to say, ‘Put your phone down first, and then light up your face,’” she added.
Ultimately, these conversations can help families create a plan for the kind of life they dream of living: a happy, holy and balanced one.
“I think when something is high stakes, we always put a plan around it,” said Lemmon. “The Hope Diamond has big security because it’s valuable.
“What influences my children is one of the highest stakes.”
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Christine Lemmon, a parishioner of Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa and computer science teacher at St. James Academy in Lenexa, has created an online course called “Raising Kids in a Digital World: Your Social Media Guide” on Udemy.com that offers a five-step plan to help families have conversations about social media.
Jack-of-all-trades
By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org
SHAWNEE — “I know the church is opposed to human cloning,” said Good Shepherd pastor Father Kent O’Connor. “But if I could, I would make a dozen more Jack Carson.
“His generosity with his gifts and talents is incredible.”
Indeed, Good Shepherd parishioner Jack Carson volunteers with the parish’s Knights of Columbus, landscaping, blood drive, food drive and its mission in Buen Pastor, El Salvador.
Carson has a simple explanation for his generous nature.
“Well, it gives you good reason to get up in the morning,” he said. “It just seems to me like you could sit at home and watch reruns, but I like getting out.”
Carson also likes the camaraderie that comes with taking part in volunteer opportunities.
“Like with the Knights,” he said. “You get to know the guys that way. And it’s the same with the people that work on the gardens; we all know each other and work together.
“It’s just a good way to keep associated with people.”
Carson made his career as an engineer, married and raised four children who have given him 14 grandchildren.
After he retired, he trained to become a Johnson County Extension Master Gardener.
Horticulture is in his blood.
“Mother — and really her whole side of the family — were gardeners,” he said. “And two of my brothers are in the nursery business.
“So yes, I’m a master gardener, but for me that’s a small ‘m.’”
Carson is a volunteer for two gardens in Shawnee Town and lends his expertise to landscape projects at Good Shepherd.
“We’ve got some regular flower gardens and I’ve got one of those,” he said. “We call it the red garden.”
The red garden captures the eye as you walk into the church building. It is a wide burst of begonias circling a crucifix made by Carson.
An even more critical cause dear to Carson’s heart is the Community Blood Center.
Good Shepherd was the first parish to organize a blood drive almost 50 years ago. For eight years, Carson has coordinated the effort to continue that important service.
He also helps with the monthly food drive for Catholic Charities, picking up the donation truck, helping load donations and delivering them back to
puts them all at the service of others
A PARISH REALLY DOES NOT SURVIVE WITHOUT KEY VOLUNTEERS. PEOPLE LIKE JACK ARE ESSENTIAL TO THRIVING PARISHES.
FATHER KENT O’CONNOR PASTOR OF GOOD SHEPHERD, SHAWNEE
Catholic Charities.
Father O’Connor is grateful for parishioners like Carson who help facilitate acts of charity within the parish.
“A parish really does not survive without key volunteers,” he said. “People like Jack are essential to thriving parishes.”
Carson agreed with that philosophy.
“Look around,” he said. “There’s always a need someplace in your community; you don’t have to look very far.
“We’re very fortunate in our country to have the standard of living we have, and so it’s a way to show our thanks.”
Carson had an opportunity to show
thanks for his engineering skills when he lent them to Good Shepherd’s ministry in Buen Pastor, El Salvador.
During the rainy season, villagers had to wait for flooding to subside — or travel a mile downstream to get across the rain-swollen creek.
Carson collaborated with two other engineers to design a solution.
The Buen Pastor community helped with much of the labor, and donations from Good Shepherd helped purchase additional labor and materials.
“We helped them build what they called a bridge,” he explained. “But it is actually a high-water crossing.
“We put these three culverts through the embankment to handle the flow of the creek.
“It’s worked so far.”
Volunteering was a great support when Carson’s wife passed away three years ago.
“Yes, once again, being with people,” he said.
An avid golfer, Carson found solace in the friendships built around that sport, but he also found a way to turn his hobby into an act of charity by volunteering to help with the Catholic Charities Golf Classic.
“I knew most of the people that were out there playing,” he said. “And so, it
was kind of fun.”
The only restriction to Carson’s volunteer activities involves his dog Ollie.
“My volunteer schedule rotates around Ollie’s life,” he said. “We adopted him (from Wayside Waifs) when my wife was housebound and bedridden a lot.
“They said he was a Shih Tzu mix; he’s got a mind of his own!”
Though he does a great deal through his volunteer efforts, Carson insists he is not alone.
“I’d just like to deflect any praise because there are probably six or seven people who do as much as I do and more,” he said.
Father O’Connor is grateful for them all.
“Not all of us are called to spend many hours on a parish campus volunteering,” he acknowledged. “But as followers of Jesus, all of us are called to serve.
“It is a question we should ask daily, ‘Where is Christ calling me to serve today?’”
For Carson, it’s all part of his faith journey.
“I just think volunteering gives you opportunities to express your faith and do things for others,” he said. “The question is ‘Who are your neighbors?’ “Well, everybody is your neighbor.”
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD
Jack Carson, a member of Good Shepherd Parish in Shawnee, is a tireless volunteer. He donates his time to the parish’s Knights of Columbus, landscaping, blood drive, food drive and its mission in Buen Pastor, El Salvador.
Cor Christi Catholic Center to host first gala
By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org
TOPEKA — “An Evening of Hope.”
That’s the name of the first fundraiser in the history of Cor Christi Catholic Center in Topeka. Located across from Washburn University’s campus, the center (under different names) has served Catholic students attending Washburn since 1948.
The evening will be held Oct. 18 and starts with 5 p.m. Mass celebrated by Archbishop Shawn McKnight at Mater Dei-Holy Name Church in Topeka. The gala will be held at the Mater Dei Event Center and includes a social hour, dinner and a program.
Jessica Hammer, Cor Christi’s director, has served in the role since the summer of 2022 and has been praying about a fundraiser for months.
In 2023, she was among those who attended SEEK, an annual Catholic conference for young adults organized by the Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS).
Hammer learned more there about FOCUS missionaries who reach out to students on college campuses wherever they are — the baseball field, the student union, the dorms, etc. — to help them to grow in relationship with Christ and the Catholic campus community.
When Hammer started, only a handful of students were involved at Cor Christi including two student leaders. Since then, the number of registered members has increased to nearly 60, but Hammer believes the center can reach many more.
“I just believe in my heart there are many more students that we could be reaching if we were able to eventually have FOCUS missionaries like all of the other campus centers,” she said.
Father George Rhodes, Cor Christi’s chaplain, agreed.
“We have big dreams for the center, which is why we are putting so much effort into investing into Cor Christi’s future both with this to-be-annual event of ‘Evening of Hope’ and with other
Oefforts, such as hoping to hire a development director,” he said.
“Ultimately, though,” he added, “our biggest goals will always tend towards fulfilling our mission to minister to the spiritual needs of the Washburn University community.”
Ministering to that community, said Father Rhodes, means helping students grow closer to the heart of Christ, a goal reflected by the center’s name change in 2024 from the Catholic Campus Center at Washburn University to Cor Christi Catholic Center. The name is Latin for “heart of Christ.”
“[The new name] gives a particular image for us, which fosters devotion — and a particularly eucharistic image, at that. We desire to minister from the merciful heart of Our Lord and to bring those to whom we minister closer to that same heart,” Father Rhodes said.
Ministering to others is what the student officers say they enjoy.
Joshua Lambert, a thirdyear law student from Houston, said he found the center in August 2023 quite by accident and now wants others to discover the same love he’s found
in Christ and his Catholic faith.
“Law school is kind of an arduous study. It’s one of the more difficult things I’ve ever done, and kind of toward the beginning of my time in that fall of 2023, I was really struggling spiritually, mentally and physically with the amount of work and everything,” he said.
At the time, Lambert hadn’t attended Mass in years.
One day, Lambert looked up the nearest Catholic church. Finding Cor Christi, he headed directly there, not even sure it was open.
After being greeted by Hammer, he asked if confession was available. He felt his soul needed some healing.
About to start a weekly student meeting, Hammer took Father Rhodes aside. Father Rhodes agreed to hear Lambert’s confession, and Lambert’s been with Cor Christi ever since.
“It has given me that spiritual guidance necessary to really succeed in law school,” he said.
Like Lambert, vice president Alli Mead didn’t plan on going to Cor Christi either.
Originally from Lakin, Mead was raised Catholic, but never felt comfortable at her
home parish.
At new student orientation in 2024, she met representatives from Cor Christi and decided to give Mass one more try. If she didn’t feel comfortable, she was never going to “attend a church anywhere across the world.”
Her first Mass was last year’s kickoff Mass followed by food and fellowship.
“I met these amazing people who were so welcoming and kind,” she said, adding that the center has been helping her grow in her faith and serve others.
“It’s been a great way to really come back to the church,” Mead added.
When current president Jude Gallegos, originally from Topeka, moved on campus as a freshman, he decided to attend the kickoff Mass at Cor Christi. Like Mead, he felt at home instantly.
College, Gallegos said, can be tough for Catholic students as professors can present ideas contrary to Catholic teaching. Cor Christi, he said, has helped him navigate some of those challenging situations. In between or after classes, Gallegos said he often heads to Cor Christi to talk
Statement regarding Father Richard Storey
n Wednesday, Sept. 17, Father Richard Storey advised the archdiocese of his decision to resign as the pastor of Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood.
The Prairie Village Police Department has informed the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas of a criminal investigation involving Father Storey concerning another adult. The archdiocese is fully cooperating with authorities so they can investigate the serious allegations being made against Father Storey.
In addition, Archbishop McKnight has initiated a preliminary canonical investigation.
Due to Father Storey’s decision to resign, and in compliance with archdiocesan policy, he has been temporarily suspended from the public exercise of priestly ministry. He is not allowed to function publicly as a priest during this time, which includes celebrating Mass and performing pastoral duties. He is presumed innocent until the investigations are concluded.
As is normative for such a process, the archdiocese will not provide any
further information on the matter during the investigation.
Father John Riley, vicar general of the archdiocese, has been appointed as temporary administrator of the parish. We are devastated by this situation. While we cooperate with law enforcement and engage in our own efforts to understand the circumstances and to determine next steps for the community, we also ask for prayers for all affected.
If you have any information you believe the police should know, please contact the Prairie Village Police Department
Learn more
For more information about Cor Christi, visit the website at: wucatholic.com.
For more information about the Evening of Hope fundraiser, go online to: wucatholic.com/cor-christi2025-evening-of-hope.
If you cannot make the gala
Both Father Rhodes and Hammer said there are many ways archdiocesan Catholics, especially Washburn alumni, can get involved with Cor Christi and support its mission:
• Make a financial contribution to the gala or Cor Christi itself. Cor Christi has a unique opportunity to raise funds through an anonymous donor who agreed to match financial contributions up to $25,000.
• If you know a Catholic student attending Washburn University, tell them about Cor Christi.
• Pray regularly for the students, especially during finals.
• Offer to provide a meal for the Sunday suppers after Mass by providing a monetary donation or preparing a light meal for the center.
• Assist with daily cleaning or deep cleaning efforts, such as washing windows or painting the center. Or, offer to help with grounds upkeep and maintenance efforts.
• Donate snacks, bottled water, sodas and juices. College students, Hammer said, are always hungry.
• Drop by Cor Christi and spend time getting to know some students.
with and seek the counsel of Hammer, Father Rhodes and other students.
“A lot of my close friends are from the center,” he said, adding he’d like the center to serve more students, a goal shared by Father Rhodes and Hammer.
“We want to continue to grow. These students are our future, and we need to invest in them,” Hammer said.
at (913) 642-6868.
Our archdiocese takes all allegations of abuse and misconduct by church personnel very seriously and works to respond to survivors’ needs with urgency, respect and compassion. We encourage anyone with knowledge about any misconduct by a church volunteer, employee, religious or clergy member — regardless of when it may have occurred — to contact civil authorities first, and then call or text the archdiocese’s confidential report line at (913) 276-8703 or online at: www.archkck. org/reportabuse.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY MARC ANDERSON
Jessica Hammer serves as cantor during the Aug. 17 kickoff Mass for Cor Christi Catholic Center. Hammer has served as director of the center since 2022. Cor Christi is located across the street from Washburn University in Topeka and cares for the pastoral needs of Catholic students attending the university. The center is hosting a fundraising gala on Oct. 18.
You don’t have to be a superhero to honor the Season of Creation
Iwas standing in line at a pizza shop, ordering a few slices for a quick dinner at home.
Someone tapped me on the shoulder.
“You’re my hero,” she said. I was her hero? I wasn’t even wearing a cape.
Then she pointed to the reusable container I had brought with me, so I could save the waste of a big disposable box.
“I always mean to do that but I forget,” she said. I laughed and explained that I usually forget as well. I am nobody’s hero.
But we are in the heart of the Season of Creation, which spans five weeks between the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation, which was Sept. 1, and the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi
Oct. 4. And our U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has called for us to observe this in the spirit of “Laudato Si,’” Pope Francis’ encyclical on “Care for Our Common Home.”
If you visit the USCCB
website, you’ll find a bulletin insert your parish can use. (Go online to: usccb.org and click on “issues and action.”) They also list the parishes and dioceses who have “Laudato Si’” action plans. It’s an impressive list, but not nearly long enough. None of us individually is going to save the world. But each of us can do something. We can bring our own carryout carton to the restaurant for leftovers, avoiding those plastic containers so many venues still use. We can take our reusable cup to most coffee shops. We can have a compost pile in the backyard for produce waste and coffee grounds, or, like my family, we can contract with a local firm that picks up compostables
and turns them into rich topsoil, saving them from the landfill.
But here’s something most of us don’t pay as much attention to, yet it’s one of the world’s largest sources of microplastic pollution and energy waste. I’m talking about clothes.
“Fast fashion” has become relatively cheap since the days when Grandma bought one good winter coat that she wore forever. Today, inexpensive clothing lures us into buying the latest trend on a whim, and sometimes discarding it after a few wears.
EarthDay.org reveals startling statistics on clothing waste. Clothing production has doubled globally since 2000. The average person today buys 60% more
items of clothing than they did 15 years ago, and wears them fewer times.
The apparel industry is responsible for 4% of greenhouse gas emissions — the same as Germany, France and the U.K. combined.
And the materials used? The ubiquitous polyester is a nonrenewable crude oil derivative. Every time you wash it, and other synthetics, you send microplastics into our water system. Synthetic fabrics are the largest source of microplastic pollution in the world’s oceans.
Think cotton’s a good alternative?
Nonorganic cotton is one of the world’s most pesticide-intensive crops. The pesticide runoff from cotton fields pollutes water. And, speaking of
water, one little cotton T-shirt takes gallons of water to produce.
And all those clothes we give away?
Most of those clothes are eventually headed for the landfill, where some will take centuries to disintegrate, or to the incinerator, or to a Third World country, often adding to their pollution woes. A prayerful nature walk, reflecting on the gift of our environment, is a great way to honor the Season of Creation. Then, a quick look at my clothes closet reveals I have plenty right now. A “no buy” pledge will do me good, combined with an occasional trip to a nice thrift store. Who knows? Maybe I’ll find my superhero cape there.
EFFIE CALDAROLA
Effie Caldarola is a wife, mom and grandmother who received her master’s degree in pastoral studies from Seattle University.
Decree of Appointment
Whereas the vacancies created by the transfer of pastors must be filled for the pastoral care of the faithful; having considered the parishes in need of pastoral care and having consulted the priests personnel board in order to determine suitable candidates to serve them, I hereby decree the following
APPOINTMENTS
Pastor:
- The Very Reverend Colin Haganey, formerly pastor of St. Francis Xavier in Burlington, St. Joseph in Waverly, St. Patrick in Emerald and St. Teresa of Avila in Westphalia, to pastor of Sacred Heart Church in Emporia, while continuing as dean of the Southern Deanery;
- The Very Reverend Gerald Volz, formerly pastor of Corpus Christi, Lawrence, and dean of the Lawrence Deanery to pastor of Church of the Nativity in Leawood;
- The Reverend Carter Zielinski, formerly pastor of Sacred Heart Church in Emporia, to pastor of Corpus Christi Parish, while continuing further studies in canon law.
Parochial Administrator:
- The Reverend George Rhodes, from parochial vicar of Most Pure Heart of Mary Church in Topeka, and chaplain of Cor Christi Catholic Center at Washburn University, to parochial administrator of St. Francis Xavier in Burlington, St. Joseph in Waverly, St. Patrick in Emerald and St. Teresa of Avila in Westphalia.
Parochial Vicar:
- The Reverend Theodulus Tanti, from residence at Prince of Peace in Olathe, to parochial vicar of Most Pure Heart of Mary Church in Topeka.
These appointments will take effect on 31 October 2025.
Parochial Administrator:
The Very Reverend John Riley to parochial administrator of Curé of Ars in Leawood, effective immediately.
These appointments 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 17th 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 Saiki, J.C.L.
Vice-Chancellor
Conception Abbey launches fundraising effort
CONCEPTION, Mo. — The monks of Conception Abbey here launched a $1.7 million mini-campaign earlier this year to address top facility needs, specifically the outer glass windows and HVAC system in the basilica and the HVAC system in St. Maur Hall, the seminary academic building.
Aptly named the “Faithful Stewards” mini-campaign, this fundraising effort prioritizes areas of needed care and repair beyond normal day-to-day maintenance.
The windows of the basilica need new protective glass to shield the stained glass, interior artwork and pipe organ from humidity and condensation. The upper floors of St. Maur Hall are also at risk from moisture buildup. The HVAC systems that support these structures have reached their intended
Xavier students leave a part of themselves behind
>> Continued from page 1
that it carries on with them well past high school.
“It was an honor for us that they chose to do this.”
Bray, who is a freshman at St. James Academy in Lenexa, said they started talking about the project in March or April, started working on it in May and then were hard at it throughout the summer.
All three students said that the project rose out of their desire to give back to the school that gave them so much.
“I wanted to make the rosary garden at Xavier because I have been at Xavier my entire life,” Bray said. “It’s really given a lot to me and made me the person I am, so I wanted to give back to the school.”
“This school helped me a lot with my faith life,” agreed Smith, “so I really wanted to give back and show my gratitude for the school.” Smith is also attending St. James.
Stella’s mother Liz Bray was glad to see her daughter not only work with her former classmates, but also learn to solicit support from the wider community.
THIS SCHOOL HELPED ME A LOT WITH MY FAITH LIFE, SO I REALLY WANTED TO GIVE BACK AND SHOW MY GRATITUDE FOR THE SCHOOL.
CELIA SMITH ST. JAMES ACADEMY STUDENT AND XAVIER SCHOOL GRADUATE
“It blew me away,” Smith said. “I was shocked by how many people showed up, especially younger kids that wanted to be here.”
“I think we exceed the RSVP amount, which is always the goal,” agreed Hartegan. “It was warm out there in the sun and it was nice to see so many people. We had the Sisters of Charity, many families and alumni, and current and former board of trustees members. Just a huge group of supporters.”
lifespan and need vital upgrades.
Over the last 25 years, the community has carried out many projects to shape the campus and community. Renovations have included the basilica, monastery and seminary administration building. New construction has included St. Raphael Welcome Center, St. Gabriel Guest House, a new addition to St. Stephen Infirmary, and Good Shepherd Hall, the new seminary dorm.
“Now, it is time for us to be faithful stewards of the many gifts entrusted to our care,” said Abbot Benedict Neenan, OSB, abbot of Conception Abbey and chancellor of Conception Seminary College. “This ‘Faithful Stewards’ mini-campaign will allow us to maintain the buildings and missions in which our generous donors have invested over the past two decades.”
“It was really cool to watch them work together and with the community for support, whether that be for donations or just coming to help with the heavy lifting,” she said. “But also, to create a legacy project that future eighth grade classes can add to.”
It was an honor for Hood, a freshman at Maur Hill-Mount Academy in Atchison, to come back and be a part of the evening.
“I love this school a lot,” Hood said. “I’ve been here since kindergarten, and I always love to come back every time I have the opportunity.”
“I saw a light in his eyes of wanting to do this,” said his mother, Mary Hood. “It was a complete honor to see him and two of his peers be a part of this.”
Great legacy
The community turnout was beyond anyone’s expectations.
Smith was proud to be able to leave a part of herself in that garden, and she hopes to see future classes add onto it.
“It’s amazing to think I can leave a little piece of myself — so to speak — to help the school,” Smith said. “Hopefully, future eighth grade students will be able to add onto it.”
“Xavier has given her wings in order to be able to step into being more of a grown-up in her spiritual life,” said her mother, Jessica King. “What a great legacy and blessing it is for us to be able to come back and give a little bit back to the school that has given us a lot.”
The way these three gave back to Xavier models how Hartegan wants to see her students give back to whatever community they choose: that it is impactful and rooted in Christ. It will also be a nice welcome for anyone who arrives at Xavier’s campus.
“The first thing people will see when they pull up our driveway will be that rosary garden,” Hartegan said.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
A drone captures an overhead photo of Xavier School’s new rosary garden. The garden was the brainchild of three Xavier graduates who worked to get the garden built.
“I had been praying to get a project that I could give a hand up instead of just handouts.”
— Robert Massey
CATHOLICS REACH OUT TO GRANDMA IN NEED
By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org
LEAWOOD — “There has been a tragic event in my family,” read the November 2022 GoFundMe entry. “My grandchildren lost their mother in a car accident in 2020.
“Now, their dad passed away tonight due to complications from a severe asthma attack.”
Thus began the journey of Marilyn Lynch, a successful Kansas City actress with an extensive body of theater work, who had just turned 72 and was ready to enjoy a life of leisure.
Lynch had sold her large family home because she wanted something she could “have clean in an hour and go out feet first.”
“So, I bought the smallest thing I could find,” she said.
When her son-in-law died, he left behind four children — Michael, 13; Jason, 11; Genevieve, 9; and Alaina, 7.
There was no will and no insurance money.
“I will raise them, of course,” said Lynch at the time, “as my daughter would have wanted.”
The four children left their home in Michigan and traveled to the open and welcoming arms of their grandmother.
In her tiny retirement house.
“I was not set up, nor was this house set up, for five people,” said Lynch.
What the house did have was an unfinished basement.
And what Lynch had was a Catholic network spanning back to grade school that was ready to lend a hand.
The Grandma project
Lynch grew up across the street from Bill Oades, a Church of the Nativity, Leawood, parishioner, and went to Visitation School in Kansas City, Missouri, with Oades and his wife Peggy.
When a performance was organized
How to help
For more information on the Marilyn Lynch family or to help her financially, visit the GoFundMe page at: https://www.gofundme.com/f/mygrandchildren-just-lost-both-of-theirparents.
to raise funds to renovate Lynch’s basement, Visitation alumni spread the word and the Oades attended.
“This is a grandmother who was living her life of retirement,” said Oades. “We’re all classmates of hers and we’re in disbelief that this need arose and she answered.
“Our prayers now are for a long life for Marilyn.”
The fundraiser helped purchase materials, and Lynch had a friend who was a contractor willing to donate his labor.
He started the work in good faith but was plagued by misfortune.
“Well, every bad thing that could happen to him happened and he almost lost his business,” said Lynch.
The basement renovation was abandoned and Lynch’s grandchildren, once again, felt abandoned, too.
“I’d promised them these bedrooms,” she said. “They were thinking, ‘Can’t we trust anybody? Isn’t anything going to go our way?’”
Bob the builder
When Lynch ran into Oades again, he asked how things were going.
“Well, they’re not,” she said.
Oades told Lynch he would reach out to a contractor friend in his parish.
“That’s how Robert Massey came into the picture,” said Lynch, “just a lovely, incredible gentleman.”
Massey, a residential construction contractor, had been praying for such a project.
Known for his excellent work, Massey
was often asked to do projects gratis. But they rarely satisfied his desire to be charitable.
“There are a lot of people who want,” he explained. “I don’t really want to help those people. I had been praying to get a project that I could give a hand up instead of just handouts.
“I’d rather use my abilities to help someone who is really in need.”
Then Massey met Lynch.
“She told me what happened with the kids’ parents,” he said. “Those kids were in need.
“I think God answered my prayer.” Massey offered to do his work free of charge, and once the word spread at Church of the Nativity, more help followed.
Many people offered to do construction work at discounted prices. Those who weren’t in construction did what
Robert Massey, a residential construction contractor, talks with Marilyn Lynch about the work he’s doing
Marilyn Lynch reads to her granddaughters Alaina and Genevieve in the comfort of Genevieve’s bedroom. Marilyn — their grandmother — took the girls and their two brothers in to live with her.
they could to help.
“We had five volunteers go to Menards because there was so much drywall we needed,” said Massey. “We needed five pickup trucks to get it all.
“People have just come out of the woodwork to help.”
Lives saved
In the end, the basement was renovat-
ed to include two small bedrooms, a bathroom, closet space and a small common area — plus, a laundry room.
“They built the most spectacular living spaces for my grandsons downstairs,” said Lynch. “They are happy little
campers.
“You cannot believe how life-changing this has been for them.”
The grandsons will live downstairs and an extra bedroom and sitting room will accommodate the granddaughters upstairs.
Now with room to grow, the children are beginning to thrive.
Lynch is thankful for her renovations, but even more thankful for the example the volunteers have given her grandchildren.
“My hope for them is that they grow up to be decent human beings, in service to the community,” she said.
As a professional performer, Lynch is rarely at a loss for words, but she has a hard time expressing her admiration for Massey.
“Robert is a gallant man and a kind man, extremely talented, very creative,” she said. “There just aren’t enough wonderful words to describe him. I don’t have enough adjectives.
“I feel very lucky and very blessed.”
Massey is grateful he was able to help someone truly in need.
“That is what my faith is to me,” he said. “It’s doing God’s work. He gave me this talent — I can’t bury my talent as he said, right?”
Oades is thankful Church of the Nativity parishioners were able to share their good fortune with this family in need.
“We are so blessed in Johnson County with so much wealth,” he said. “It’s just a thing of beauty what happened here.
“This is true Catholic charity.”
Lynch agrees and is happy to get the word out.
“You always hear the nasty stuff on the news,” she said. “But why don’t you hear about this stuff?
“This is huge. They saved four children’s lives. Saved their lives!”
LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE doing in her basement where he constructed bedrooms for her grandchildren for free.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE bedroom. After the girls’ father unexpectedly died,
LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE Jason is all smiles as he prepares to show a visitor his bedroom. Jason and siblings moved from Michigan to live with their grandmother Marilyn in Kansas City, Missouri.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE
Michael plays with the family dog as Marilyn looks on in amusement. Michael and his siblings have settled into a comfortable life with Marilyn after the death of their father.
‘SAINTS ON THEIR WAY’
Three thousand visitors take part in 50th anniversary celebration of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton canonization
By Kimberley Heatherington OSV News
EMMITSBURG, Md. (OSV News) — As the National Shrine of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton marked the 50th anniversary of the 1975 canonization of its namesake on Sept. 14, the campus hosted what was dubbed “A Day of Joy” as part of a three-day celebration attracting over 3,000 visitors.
Lively music — from chamber, gospel and school choirs and choruses; country, worship and contemporary singers; and a university band — continuously filled the air.
Dramatic monologues brought saints-to-be to life, while their canonization causes could be discovered at more than 20 information tables in the “Saints On Their Way Village.” Authors talked about their books, while children energetically played 19th-century games.
Baltimore Archbishop William E. Lori celebrated Mass in the basilica for 1,800 worshipers, and there were stateof-the-art museum exhibits, expert lectures and tours of historic homes on the grounds where Mother Seton lived and worked from 1809 until her death in 1821.
In his homily, Archbishop Lori reminded the faithful that St. Elizabeth Ann Seton’s canonization anniversary coincides with the feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, noting she “exalted the Cross by her life in all its amazing iterations.”
Her lifetime was punctuated by almost countless sufferings — including family deaths, setbacks and conflicts — to say nothing of the struggles of founding the first U.S. community for religious women and planting the seeds of Catholic education in America.
Nonetheless, “never angry with God, never bitter, she instead deepened her spiritual quest,” said Archbishop Lori.
“No matter what your vocation, no matter the highways and byways of your life, chances are that St. Elizabeth Ann Seton walked the same road,” Archbishop Lori concluded. “From eternity, she reaches out to show us that true holiness of life is attainable in every vocation, amid every responsibility, amid every trial and suffering.”
That same theme of spiritual persistence was vividly displayed in the “Saints On Their Way Village,” where visitors chatted with representatives from the guilds of those they hope will eventually be canonized.
Nearly 100 American men and women are currently being considered for sainthood. Represented were the sainthood causes of Bishop Simon Bruté; Father Vincent Capodanno; Father Solanus Casey; Father Walter Ciszek; Dorothy Day; Mother Henriette Delille; Sister Miriam Teresa Demjanovich; Joseph Dutton; Mother Mary Lange; Father Michael McGivney; Charlene Richard; Father Stanley Rother; Father Aloysius Schwartz; Father Francis Xavier Seelos; Sister Blandina Segale; Archbishop Fulton Sheen; and Brother Leo Williams. Other guilds that couldn’t be present sent materials.
Servant of God Bishop Simon Bruté (1779-1839) was a friend of Mother Seton, known to her from 1811 until her death in 1821.
“He said that her motherhood, her vocation, made sense of his priesthood,” explained Paige Hochschild, associate professor and chair of the department of theology at Mount St. Mary’s University in Emmitsburg, where Bishop Bruté taught as a priest.
Servant of God Father Walter Ciszek (1904-1984) — a Polish-American Jesuit once described as having “a baseball bat in one hand and a rosary in the other” who routinely advised the faithful to “give God your lousy best” — spent 23 years of hard labor and abuse in Soviet prison camps before returning to the United States.
“I think it’s actually a miracle that she still has her legacy continuing today,” said Sister Seyram Mary Adzokpa, a temporary professed member of the Sisters of the Holy Family, a Catholic religious order of AfricanAmerican nuns founded in 1837 in New Orleans by Venerable Mother Henriette Delille (1813-1862).
Sister Seyram Mary noted a school, a nursing home, low-income housing projects and a day care in current operation.
“I think that for her to be a saint is
absolutely appropriate, because her legacy continues,” she said.
Servant of God Joseph Dutton (18431931) fought in the American Civil War and afterward worked collecting the bodies of the dead for internment at a cemetery in Corinth, Mississippi. Perhaps it was this grim task that developed his compassion, but — after a failed marriage, a drinking problem and baptism into the Catholic Church at 40 — he decided his ministry was to the sick.
Venerable Mother Mary Lange (1789-1882) founded the Oblate Sisters of Providence — the first AfricanAmerican religious congregation in the United States — in 1829, well before such vocations were encouraged.
“The things that Mother Mary Lange had to go through — the rejection, the humiliation, all the things that people of color had to deal with — but still, she believed in the Lord,” said Phyllis Johnson, a lay associate for the Oblates and a member of the Mother Mary Lange Guild.
Venerable Fulton J. Sheen (1895-1979) leveraged modern social communications platforms to spread the Gospel. His popular television program “Life is Worth Living,” peaked at 30 million weekly viewers.
OSV NEWS PHOTO/COURTESY SETON SHRINE
Baltimore Archbishop William E. Lori celebrates Mass during the 50th anniversary celebration of the 1975 canonization of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton at the national shrine in her name in Emmitsburg, Maryland, Sept. 14.
OSV NEWS PHOTO/CNS FILE, COURTESY THE NATIONAL SHRINE OF SAINT ELIZABETH ANN SETON
The National Shrine of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in Emmitsburg, Maryland, is seen in this undated photo. The shrine marked the 50th anniversary celebration of the canonization of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Sept. 14 with a Mass and hosted a three-day event Sept. 12-14 attracting over 3,000 visitors.
OSV NEWS PHOTO, CNS FILE
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton was canonized in 1975. She was the first native-born American saint.
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.
DAUGHTERS OF ISABELLA MEETING
Christ the King Church (Yadrich Hall) 5973 S.W. 25th St., Topeka
Sept. 28 at 12:40 p.m.
The meeting will begin with a rosary, followed by a business meeting, installation of officers and social time. If anyone knows of a member or family member of Daughters of Isabella in need of the Little Flower Circle’s prayers, call Shirley Gustafson at (785) 554-3028 or Gen Orozco at (785) 230-2473.
ST. JOHN FALL BAZAAR
St. John Church (hall)
406 S Prairie St., Greeley
Sept. 28 from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
All are welcome at this annual fall bazaar. There will be raffles, a country store and bake sale. Dine-in or carryout lunch — turkey and dressing, chicken and noodles and ham, mashed potatoes and gravy, sides, homemade desserts and drinks — is available. 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 available for a freewill offering.
BLUE MASS
Queen of the Holy Rosary Church
7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park
Sept. 29 at 11 a.m.
Join us in a show of mutual support for all active and retired members of local law enforcement, fire departments, EMS communities and their families. Lunch immediately following will be provided by the Knights of Columbus. Attendance in uniform is encouraged.
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/acp68add a1d16768/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 fixin’s, 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.”
MEMOIR PUBLICATION EVENT
Church of the Nativity
St. Joseph’s Room
3800 W. 119th St., Leawood Oct. 9 at 6:30 p.m.
Join parishioner Elisemarie DiCarlo as she shares her new memoir, “Running into Me: A Memoir of Resilience, Relationships and Recovery.” Hear her story of challenges, healing and hope. All are welcome.
POLISH-AMERICAN CELEBRATION
All Saints Church
801 Vermont Ave., Kansas City, Kansas
Oct. 11 from 5 to 10 p.m.
Come help us celebrate our PolishAmerican heritage with Mass at 4 p.m. and Polish dinner and dance afterward. This is a 21-plus event. There will be a traditional Polish dinner, dessert, and one nonalcoholic drink. Music will be provided by the Brian McCarty Band. There will also be a raffle for a quilt and cash prizes. The cost is $40 per person. To purchase tickets, contact Pam at (913) 787-7869, Cathy at (913) 515-0553 or the parish office at (913) 371-1837.
CATHOLIC ADVISORS NETWORK
Church of the Nativity Parish (hall)
3800 W. 119th St., Leawood
Oct. 15 at 11:30 a.m.
The topic is: “Investing with Impact: Catholic Values Investing,” by Chris Malmgren, associate vice president and financial adviser at The Ferguson Smith Cohen Group at Morgan Stanley. This event includes a free lunch, networking and the presentation (continuing education credits offered). Register online at: cfnek.org/events or call (913) 647-3062 or send an email to: cfnek@archkck.org.
ANNUAL SOUP SUPPER
St. Bede Parish
7344 Drought St., Kelly
Oct. 12 from 4 to 7 p.m.
Homemade chili, chicken noodle soup, vegetable beef soup, ham sandwiches, hot dogs, pie and desserts will be served for a freewill donation. There will also be games for all ages in the parish hall, followed by a silent auction.
FALL BAZAAR
St. Aloysius Church
615 E. Wyandotte, Meriden
Oct. 12 from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
This annual bazaar includes food, games, a raffle, silent auction, bingo, and a beer garden. Dinner is turkey and ham with all of the fixings, plus homemade desserts. The cost is: $14 for adults; $8 for children 5-16; children under 4 are free. Carryout meals are available.
K OF C BREAKFAST FUNDRAISER
St. Pius X Church
5500 Woodson Rd., Mission Oct. 12 from 8 to 11 a.m.
This is a three-egg omelet breakfast with the fixings of your choice, served with a biscuit and sausage link. A freewill donation is requested with proceeds going to scholarships at John Paul II School and the Knights’ ultrasound program.
MEXICAN SUPPER
Sacred Heart School
102 Cottonwood St., Emporia Oct. 10 from 4:30 to 7 p.m.
Enjoy two tacos, rice, chips and salsa, and dessert. Advance tickets are $12; at the door: $14. Dine-in, carryout and drivethru are available. For tickets, contact Sacred Heart School at (620) 343-7394.
NEAR-DEATH EXPERIENCES
TALK
Holy Spirit Church
11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park Oct. 15 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Dr. Paul Camarata, chair and professor of neurosurgery at the University of Kansas Medical Center, will speak on “Near-Death Experiences and the Brain,” particularly how these experiences are supernatural. This is a free event.
PILGRIMAGE OF HOPE
St. Benedict’s Abbey 1020 N. 2nd St., Atchison Oct. 16-19
Travel with the monks and fellow pilgrims to Oklahoma City, Wichita and back to Atchison over the course of four days. We will stop at various holy sites that hold the stories of inspiring men and women of faith. For more information and to register, go online to: www.kansasmonks.org/ events.
SILENT WALKING RETREAT
Christ’s Peace House of Prayer 22131 Meagher Rd., Easton Oct. 17 to Oct. 19
Experience the ancient Jesus Prayer on a weekend walking pilgrimage through nature. This silent retreat offers prayer, fasting and reflection to deepen your relationship with God. Cabins and courtyard rooms are: $180 single/$270 couple. Guest rooms are: $110 (meals included). Register online at: ChristsPeace.com or call (913) 773-8255.
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.
CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS
DEADLINE: Noon, Thursday, eight days before the desired publication date.
SEND SUBMISSIONS TO: olivia. martin@theleaven.org.
EMPLOYMENT
Theology teacher - Cristo Rey High School in Kansas City, Missouri, seeks an energetic theology teacher to join our committed faculty. This person will possess a faith-filled vision for academic excellence, an appreciation for systems that support student success, a culturally responsive mindset, a commitment to collaboration and growth, and will contribute to the professional and spiritual development of all students. A bachelor’s degree in theology, religious studies, education or a related field is required. Bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply (English required; Spanish preferred). Apply online at: cristoreykc.org/ aboutt/join-our-team.
Bookkeeper - The Catholic Education Foundation is seeking a bookkeeper to provide bookkeeping support and assist with administrative duties. This is a 40 hour/week hybrid position. Duties include processing donations and invoices; making deposits; reconciling accounts; entering transactions in database system; monitoring bank accounts; maintaining backup; serving as liaison to the archdiocesan accounting department; and other duties as assigned by the executive director. Ideal candidates will have a college degree or equivalent experience; 3-5 years in bookkeeping or accounting, preferably in nonprofit; excellent written and verbal skills; exceptional customer service skills; proficient in Excel and other MS Office programs; ability to create and manage spreadsheet reports; detail-oriented. Being a practicing Catholic is preferred. Excellent medical, dental, vision, retirement and disability benefits; vacation; paid holidays; 401(k) match and other perks. To apply, send cover letter and resume to: cefsupport@archkck.org.
Music director - Come work to change lives through sung prayer! St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee is a dynamic, growing suburban Kansas City parish with many support groups for children, young adults and families. The director of music ministry leads and develops a robust program of choirs, cantors and professional keyboardists who minister at five weekend Masses. Strong choral, vocal, keyboard, liturgical, people and administrative skills are desired but we will consider candidates with a solid music background willing to learn and grow. Contact: mthomas@stjoeshawnee.org.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Sacred Heart Counseling - Are you looking for counseling from an authentic Catholic perspective? We have offices in Olathe, Leawood and Atchison; openings days, evenings and weekends. Book online at: SacredHeartCounselingKC.com; in-person or telehealth. Landscaping Design or Renovate! Light tree trimming/gutters Fall cleanup/leaf removal Free estimates; local parishioners. Call Charles or Emily (913) 605-8145.
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.
Popcorn ceiling texture removal Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144. 30 years’ experience. Interior painting specialist. Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.
Custom countertops - Laminates installed within 5 days. Cambria, granite and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee.
Joe’s Decks & More Deck and fence repair, mowing and handyman services
Member of St. Joseph in Shawnee (913) 449-9848
Pure Touch Cleaning KC
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.
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.
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!
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
Garage door sales, service and installation - Repair broken springs and cables. 40 years of experience. 24-hour service. Call Tim at (816) 946-9990.
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.
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.
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 - Single plot at Gate of Heaven, KCK: Saint Gabriel, lot 74B, space 4. Prime location, asking $2,845. Includes transfer fee! Text Michael at (913) 424-4409 (please no calls) or email: mtaylor65020@ aol.com.
For sale - Various items: M&M candy dispenser collection — all or partial, plus odds and ends. Two 2-drawer wood file cabinets; $10 apiece. Desk cabinet, asking $50. Call Mike at (913) 764-3241.
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)
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.
>> Continued on page 13
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.
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.
PILGRIMAGE
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
$$Paying Cash$$ - 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
Do you have a spare car or truck that you need to get rid of? If you do, CALL ME!
I’m a cash buyer. We’re Holy Trinity parishioners.
My name is Mark. (913) 980-4905.
Will buy firearms and related accessories - One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee.
CASH PAID FOR COIN COLLECTIONS!
Silver dollar coins, half-dollars, quarters, dimes, old pennies. Cash in hand. Also paying cash for old paper currency. Cash in that old dusty box of coins! Call Kirk (913) 213-9843. Member of Holy Trinity Parish. Please sell to local people.
Wanted to buy - 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.
Classified Advertising
Cost is $20 for the first five lines, $1.50 per line thereafter. Email: beth.blankenship@theleaven.org
DAILY READINGS
TWENTY-SIXTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME
Sept. 28
TWENTY-SIXTH SUNDAY
IN ORDINARY TIME
Am 6: 1a, 4-7
Ps 146: 7-10
1 Tm 6: 11-16
Lk 16: 19-31
Sept. 29
Michael, Gabriel and Raphael, archangels
Dn 7: 9-10, 13-14
Ps 138: 1-5
Jn 1: 47-51
Sept. 30
Jerome, priest, doctor of the church
Zec 8: 20-23
Ps 87: 1b-7
Lk 9: 51-56
Oct. 1
Thérèse of the Child
Jesus, virgin, doctor of the church
Neh 2: 1-8
Ps 137: 1-6
Lk 9: 57-62
Oct. 2
The Holy Guardian Angels
Neh 8: 1-4a, 5-6, 7b-12
Ps 19: 8-11
Mt 18: 1-5, 10
Oct. 3
Friday
Bar 1: 15-22
Ps 79: 1b-5, 8-9
Lk 10: 13-16
Oct. 4
Francis of Assisi
Bar 4: 5-12, 27-29
Ps 69: 33-37
Lk 10: 17-24
It’s said that good fences make good neighbors. I believe that it’s good neighbors who make good neighbors.
Gordon MacDonald of Grace Chapel in Lexington, Massachusetts, recalled a flight he and his wife were on flying back to Boston. In the row in front of them were two women and children — one woman was in the window seat, a little girl occupied in the middle seat and the woman on the aisle held an infant on her lap.
MacDonald hoped the kids wouldn’t be noisy, but his prayer wasn’t answered. The turbulent flight hurt the kids’ ears, and they wailed in discomfort.
The women tried to help. The woman at the window played with the child in the middle seat, hoping to make her feel better by paying her a lot of attention. Toward the last part of the flight, things got worse . . . much worse. I’ll let MacDonald continue the story in his own words:
DOMINIC OF SILOS
1000-1073
As a youth, Dominic tended sheep on the foothills of the Pyrenees where he learned to appreciate solitude. He then pursued the quiet life as a monk. Dominic became the prior of his monastery, but was forced to flee by the king of Navarre, who intended to seize the monastery’s land. The monastery of St. Sebastian at Silos welcomed him. There as prior, Dominic conducted a successful program of spiritual and material renewal. The Dominicans especially honor him. For a century after Dominic’s death, Blessed Joan of Aza visited his tomb. There, she had a vision promising her that she would have another son. When the child was born, she named him Dominic and he became the founder of the Dominican Order.
Won’t you be my neighbor?
MARK MY WORDS
FATHER MARK GOLDASICH
Father Mark is the pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie. He has been editor of The Leaven since 1989.
The child in the middle seat got sick. The next thing I know she was losing everything from every part of her body. The diaper wasn’t on right, and before long, a stench began to rise though the cabin. It was unbearable. I watched as the woman next to the window patiently comforted the child and tried her best to clean up the mess and make something good
Hout of a bad situation. The plane landed, and when we pulled up to the gate, all of us were ready to exit that plane as fast as we could. The flight attendant came up with paper towels and handed them to the woman in the window seat and said, “Here, ma’am, these are for your little girl.”
The woman said, “This isn’t my little girl.”
“Aren’t you traveling together?” asked the stewardess.
“No,” said the woman, “I’ve never met this woman and these children before in my life.”
Suddenly, I realized this woman had found
the opportunity to give mercy. She was, in the words of Christ, the person who was “a neighbor.” (Story found in “1001 Illustrations That Connect,” edited by Craig Brian Larson and Phyllis Ten Elshof.)
Did you know that this Sunday, Sept. 28, is National Good Neighbor Day? President Jimmy Carter made it official by a proclamation in 1978 where he wrote: “. . . we are mindful that the noblest human concern is concern for others. Understanding, love and respect build cohesive families and communities. . . . [T]his sense of community is nurtured and expressed in our neighborhoods where we give each other an opportunity to share and feel part of a larger family.”
We’re living in a time of rampant loneliness. Celebrating Good Neighbor Day could be the beginning of a cure for this national “ailment.” Having it on a Sunday this year should make it easier to
set time aside. Chatting with fellow parishioners after Mass in the back of church or in the parking lot is a great place to start. Or perhaps inviting neighbors over to watch the Chiefs. Or maybe just making time to learn the names of your neighbors!
There are a slew of resources and practical suggestions online at: nationalgoodneighborday.org. Check it out.
Be warned, though, that being a good neighbor might make them dependent. One of mine often comes to my door begging. OK, so this “neighbor” is a Pomeranian named Porter who loves his Purina Beggin’ treats that I can’t resist giving him (with the permission of his owners, of course). Hey, who said that your neighbors could only be humans?
Let’s resolve to be good neighbors — not just for one day but every day — to humans, animals and all of God’s creation.
Is our most serious sin an action — or our failure to act?
ave you seen Lazarus lately?
If we think, “Well, no, not really,” maybe we need to think again. The profoundly important message of this Sunday’s readings is that Lazarus may be closer than we realize — and we need to look for him and, above all, seek to help the helpless.
Last week, you’ll remember, Jesus warned his disciples that you can’t serve two masters, and he put it simply: “You cannot serve God and mammon.”
This week, he ups the ante, with a parable about an astoundingly rich man who ignores the gnawing poverty
DEACON GREG KANDRA
Deacon Greg Kandra is an award-winning author and journalist, and creator of the blog “The Deacon’s Bench.” He serves in the Diocese of Brooklyn, New York.
right outside his front door. The fate of the rich man and the fate of the poor beggar
Lazarus tell us all we need to know. The lesson is clear: We need to share what we can with those struggling with the hard reality of life.
We can’t shrug off or easily dismiss the urgent commandment to love one another — particularly when it comes to the poor.
But that’s just the beginning. This Gospel carries even more weight than we may realize.
First, there’s context. In Luke’s Gospel, it is one of several stories that Jesus told his apostles as he was making his way to Jerusalem, where he was destined to suffer and die. We’ve been hearing these parables
for the last few weeks. They matter. Greatly. Given when they occur in the life of Christ, they take on added urgency. These are the last lessons he would share before his passion — and these are the things he wants us to remember above all else. You might consider them his last testament.
They are fundamental lessons of selflessness and sacrifice that go to the heart of his earthly ministry.
They warn us that you cannot love God and money.
They remind us that we are all prodigals, and that God’s mercy endures forever.
They exhort us that
we need to turn our backs on the things of this world if we want to inherit the next.
And they challenge us with the sobering fact that we can’t ignore the poor outside our door.
That brings us to the second point to remember: Sometimes, the most serious sin we can commit is a sin of omission.
The rich man is damned not for what he did, but for what he didn’t do. He continually saw Lazarus suffering and did nothing. This was his most serious sin.
We can’t help but ask ourselves: Is it also ours?
Family’s role in church and society needs support, pope says
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — The strength of families and their ability to thrive and witness as a “domestic church” require support from the wider church and from governments, particularly in the face of poverty, Pope Leo XIV said.
“We are aware that today there are real threats to the dignity of the family such as poverty, lack of employment, lack of access to health
care, abuse of the most vulnerable, migration and wars,” the pope told a group of Latin American church representatives Sept. 19.
The Latin American bishops’ council, the Pontifical Academy for Life and the John Paul II Pontifical Theological Institute for Marriage and Family Sciences brought the representatives to Rome Sept. 17-19 for a shared Jubilee Year
reflection on “the future of life and the family” in Latin America.
“Both public institutions and the church have the responsibility to seek ways to promote dialogue and strengthen the aspects of society that support family life and the education of its members,” the pope told the group.
The beginning of the school year is an exciting and energizing time. The school community of faith is back together and teachers have been preparing lessons to help their students expand their minds. Our faculty and staff members love the students and are looking forward to helping them to have an even stronger relationship with Jesus who knows each one of them by name.
Prior to the start of the school year, Archbishop McKnight celebrated commissioning Masses for all of our school faculty and staff members. As
FROM THE SUPER
the shepherd of the archdiocese, he commissioned them to educate our young people in the faith and to help them to grow spiritually and academically.
During the Masses, he asked for God’s grace to empower them for their service and for the Holy Spirit to guide them. It was such a blessing for each of us to be sent out by our shepherd into this great ministry of Catholic education.
During the commissioning, Archbishop
McKnight had a strong message to fuel our faculty and staff members for the journey ahead.
“Our Catholic schools are to be environments in which our youth experience something countercultural in our society,” he said. “Our dominant American culture of individualism is contrary to what we believe as Catholics.
“What is distinctive about us is not just the content of our faith that we teach in catechism class or religion class, but it’s the ethos — it’s the culture — that pervades our entire school.”
The schools in the archdiocese share the same purpose, mission
and core principles. That being said, each school community is unique in how it addresses these. This is what guides each of our schools:
• Purpose: understanding that each child is a masterpiece of God, created with precision for a specific purpose, the Catholic schools of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas provide an education that forms the whole person, so that all may attain their eternal destiny and promote the common good of society.
• Mission: In partnership with parents, the Catholic schools of the Archdiocese of Kansas City
You have probably seen me write about BREATHE respite care ministry. Let me tell you a little more about the ministry and why it’s so important to our mission as Catholics.
BREATHE — Bessette Respite Embracing Action Toward Holy Encounters — is a ministry that provides monthly respite care for children and adults with disabilities, ages 5 and older, as well as their siblings.
The name BREATHE reflects its mission: to give families the opportunity to pause, rest and renew while knowing their loved ones are in a safe, faith-filled environment. Inspired
LEARNING TO LOVE LIKE HIM
JOSHUA RUOFF
Joshua Ruoff is the lead consultant for the archdiocesan special-needs ministry. He can be reached by email at: jruoff@ archkck.org.
by the compassion of St. André Bessette, the ministry embodies Christ’s call to love and serve one another,
especially those who are most vulnerable.
Each month, participants gather at Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park for an evening of fun, faith, food and fellowship. The experience is tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals with disabilities while also
offering their siblings an opportunity to play and build friendships. Activities include crafts, games, music and prayer. Parents and caregivers, meanwhile, are encouraged to use the time to attend to personal needs, have a date night or rest and recharge.
BREATHE is not only a blessing for families who participate — it is also a meaningful way for volunteers to live out their call to discipleship. Volunteers are the heart of the ministry, providing one-on-one companionship and ensuring that every participant feels valued and included.
Anyone 14 years or older is welcome to
serve as a volunteer.
Young people often find it to be a rewarding way to grow in empathy, patience and leadership. For those 16 and older, the archdiocese strongly encourages completing Virtus training, which equips volunteers with tools to help maintain a safe environment for all participants. Adults of all ages are also invited to serve, whether by assisting with hospitality, organizing activities or offering behind-thescenes support.
Whether you are a parent seeking respite, an individual with special needs seeking community and friendship, a sibling wanting connection with your
in Kansas provide students with exceptional, Christ-centered education rooted in traditional values, forming students who are joyfully Catholic, diligently achieving and intentionally self-giving.
• Core Principles: joyfully Catholic, diligently achieving, intentionally selfgiving, prudently managed and forward thinking.
One of the main goals in the office of Catholic schools (OCS) is to support pastors, principals and each of our school communities. We look forward to a great year as we help bring our young people closer to Jesus.
Each school’s culture is what makes Catholic education special Encounter Christ and BREATHE; volunteer now
sibling or a volunteer desiring to share your gifts, BREATHE offers an encounter with Christ’s love for you, and is a place where you are wanted, needed and belong.
Through the BREATHE ministry, the special-needs ministry helps the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas continue its mission of “growing as disciples of Jesus, making disciples for Jesus.” For more information about upcoming respite events or to sign up as a participant or volunteer, please contact the archdiocesan office of special needs at (913) 647-3054 or visit our website at: archkck. org/special-needs.
VINCE CASCONE
Vince Cascone is the superintendent of archdiocesan schools.
Divine Mercy shrine dedicated at Mt. Calvary
By Therese Horvat Special to The Leaven
OLATHE — Centrally located in Mt. Calvary Cemetery here, a new shrine to Divine Mercy stands as an inviting place for prayer and as a fitting memorial to deceased members of the Hutchinson family.
Inspired by Jim, their 90-yearold father, the Hutchinsons donated the stone grotto, statuary, patio and plant containers. Nick Paradise, of Jayhawk Plastics, Inc., Olathe, donated the seating.
The shrine is in remembrance of Margaret, Jim’s wife of 60 years, who died in September 2022, and Kim Mitchell, their daughter, who died in March 2025. Both are buried in close proximity to the shrine.
Jim and Margaret had a great devotion to Divine Mercy, explained Sharon Vallejo, president of Catholic Cemeteries of Northeast Kansas, the ministry that manages Mt. Calvary and eight other cemeteries in the archdiocese.
“I understand that they prayed the chaplet of Divine Mercy together every day,” Vallejo said, “and Jim has continued the practice daily at Margaret’s gravesite.”
Vallejo met the Hutchinsons several years ago through a transaction with their family-owned business, United Office Products in Olathe. Jim began the office furniture and supply company in 1971. He continues to go into the office daily.
In addition to a broad range of office products, the Hutchinsons sell the Divine Mercy and other religious statues through their business. However, Vallejo learned that Jim is
Lknown for donating Divine Mercy statues for placement wherever and whenever the right opportunity occurs. This includes parishes, schools and other Catholic organizations. Additionally, Jim always has small versions of the statue with him that he gives away regularly. Jim is a member of Prince of Peace Parish, Olathe.
Father John Riley, archdiocesan chancellor and vicar general and friend of the Hutchinson family, dedicated and blessed the new shrine on Aug. 14.
Mount Calvary Cemetery in Olathe dates to the late 1800s. For many years, it served as the cemetery of St. Paul Parish. In 1996, Catholic
Cemeteries assumed management of the cemetery.
Plans are underway to expand the cemetery’s capacity with approximately 400 more burial spaces in the newly developed Divine Mercy Garden that will encompass the shrine donated by the Hutchinsons. The new garden will also feature a columbarium for cremated remains.
“We placed the shrine so that visitors to the cemetery could pray the chaplet of Divine Mercy or say prayers of their choice,” Vallejo concluded. “The location was important to Jim because he wants everyone to be able to appreciate the shrine as much as he and his family do.”
USM named to The Princeton Review’s Best Regional Colleges list
EAVENWORTH — The University of Saint Mary here was once again recognized as one of the best colleges in the Midwest by The Princeton Review. The education services company has named Saint Mary to its Best in the Midwest list every year since 2005. The 151 colleges on the Best in the Midwest list represent 12 states:
Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin. The Princeton Review editors chose 631 colleges across seven regions for its 2026 Best Regional Colleges feature, which is about 26% of America’s four-year institutions.
The Princeton Review surveyed administrators at 2,000 colleges for this
Silver Rose prayer service kicks off Respect Life Month
By Olivia Martin-Davies olivia.martin@theleaven.org
LENEXA — On Oct. 1 from 7 to 8 p.m., the Knights of Columbus will host a Silver Rose prayer service at Holy Trinity Church here.
“The ceremony is a pilgrimage that started in 1960 in Mexico honoring Our Lady of Guadalupe,” explained Ken Kleekamp, a Holy Trinity parishioner and a district deputy for the Knights.
“It promotes the respect of life through prayer services and community involvement.”
There are
only eight silver roses in the world, and the Knights who carry them make perpetual pilgrimage — from Canada to every U.S. state, Puerto Rico and ending at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City.
“The symbolism of the Silver Rose is so unique and special,” said parishioner Cayleigh Heron. “I love that a symbol like this can unite the communities throughout our country and across other nations.”
For Cayleigh and her husband Joe, the opportunity to contribute music to the prayer service will be a way they give back to Our Lady.
“We want to show up to help her when she asks just as she always does for us,” explained Cayleigh. “So, this prayer service is a way for us to honor her and the mission of the [Knights of Columbus] by sharing our gifts.”
project, requesting information about their school’s academic programs, campus policies, student services, amenities and other topics. Over the years, The Princeton Review has surveyed more than 3.5 million college students. The company asks students to rate their schools on dozens of topics and report on their campus experiences.
In addition to music, The Silver Rose prayer service will include a procession of fourth-degree Knights and the Daughters of Isabella, a rosary, readings and a special blessing of all involved in pro-life work and ministry.
“It just so happens that we get the rose at the beginning of Respect Life Month,” said Kleekamp. “To me, this is more than just chance.”
COURTESY PHOTO
The new shrine at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Olathe is centrally located to encourage visitors to pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet or other popular devotions.