EAGLES SOAR
Ascension School in Overland Park held its fourth annual schoolwide Eagle Serve Day on Sept. 26.
Students in preschool through eighth grade participated in a variety of service projects to benefit Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas.
Most projects took place at Ascension, but seventh and eighth graders went out into the community to serve at organizations like TurnStyles and New Roots Farm.
The afternoon was filled with guest speakers representing 11 different nonprofit organizations.
Second grader Jack Thomas celebrates a successful dunk at the “Dunk a Dad” tank, where students donated nonperishable food items to earn ball throws.
Seventh grader Elena Fellers takes part in a school supply project for the Catholic Education Foundation in the Ascension gym.
Seventh graders Carly Seger (left) and Edee Cromwell pick through, sort and categorize donations at one of the TurnStyles locations.
Eighth grader Lucy Wagner pulls weeds from a strawberry patch at New Roots Farm in Kansas City, Kansas. Seventh and eighth graders traveled to various locations in the archdiocese in the morning to take part in service projects.
From left, seventh graders Gracie Butler and Ella Ehman sort through mountains of donations at TurnStyles. Seventh graders donated their time at each of the four TurnStyles locations.
Eighth graders Mikey Lara (left) and Andy Kirilov dig up and replant strawberries at New Roots Farm where the two spent the morning working.
From left, Alexis Murray, Anna Henderson and Stella Martinez, all Ascension School eighth graders, perform cleanup tasks at New Roots Farm in Kansas City, Kansas.
Amy Hunter of KC Pets for Life introduces sixth grader Rosie Orellano to Rosie the dog. Sixth graders learned about the mission of KC Pets for Life.
PHOTOS BY KATHRYN WHITE
Mass of Innocents set for Oct. 19
OVERLAND PARK — Archbishop Emeritus Joseph F. Naumann will celebrate the annual Mass of Innocents on Oct. 19 at 1 p.m. at Holy Spirit Church here.
All are invited to attend.
The Mass commemorates the lives of children who died during pregnancy or in early infancy, and the archdiocesan office of marriage and family life extends
a special invitation to those who have experienced this type of loss — no matter how long ago it has been — as well as to their loved ones and supporters.
The Mass offers a special opportunity for those who have experienced this type of loss to write the names of their loved ones in the Book of Remembrance.
For more information, send an email to: MFLadmin@archkck.org.
ARCHBISHOP MCKNIGHT
Oct. 3
Deacon convocation — Seattle
Oct. 7
Archdiocesan convocation — Savior Pastoral Center
Oct. 8
Confirmation — St. Joseph, Flush
Oct. 9
St. Paul Outreach leader Mass and breakfast — chancery
SHINE — Fiorella’s Event Space, Overland Park
Oct. 15
Directors meeting — Savior
Oct. 16
Confirmation — St. Boniface, Scipio, and St. Therese, Richmond
ARCHBISHOP
EMERITUS NAUMANN
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
Oct. 9
SHINE — Fiorella’s Event Space, Overland Park
Oct. 10
Universal Chastity Education keynote speaker — Pueblo Community College, Pueblo, Colorado
Oct. 12
Mass — Prince of Peace, Olathe
Oct. 15
Jesus Covenant Prayer Partner call
Oct. 16
Pilgrimage of Faith Unbound Award — Unbound, Kansas City, Kansas
‘Praying with the Saints’ aims to help people grow in prayer
By John Sorce john.sorce@theleaven.org
It is probably not often that people tend to think of saints like musicians.
But that is the analogy used by author Woodeene Koenig-Bricker in discussing her book “Praying with the Saints.”
She drew the comparison between Beethoven and Jimmy Buffett. Two completely different styles of music, but she said that people might feel obligated to say that Beethoven is better if asked to compare the two.
But folks who aren’t into classical music may prefer Buffet’s style better. And that’s OK.
We are allowed to view saints in a similar way.
“Don’t feel like you need to love every saint in the book,” she said. “They are all different. We are all different. And just like you get to choose the musical genre that you like, you can choose the saints that you like, too.
“There are going to be some [saints] in there that you just like better than
“Praying
others,” the author continued. “It doesn’t mean they are better, but they resonate closer with you. And that’s
why I wanted to have such a wide selection of saints.”
The book, which was released on Aug. 13, is an overhaul of Koenig-Bricker’s earlier book based on prayers she has collected for decades; she wanted to put them together to help people in their prayer journey.
“I think one of the real emphases was that we often find it difficult to pray,” she said. “We don’t feel confident in using our own words and sometimes, the formal prayers of the church just don’t express what we’re feeling.
“When I looked at the prayers that I’ve collected, I realized that the saints were facing so many of the same situations that we face and sometimes their words can help guide us into our own prayer.”
The main purpose of this edition, which features 100 saints that are either canonized or are currently going through the process, was to include modern saints, as well as add diversity.
“What I wanted to do in this updated version was include many more of the
LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE
Robert Trausch, a member of St. Paul Parish in Olathe, signs his child’s name in the Book of Remembrance last year at the Mass of Innocents at Holy Spirit Church in Overland Park. The Mass is for those who have lost a child through miscarriage or in early infancy.
with the Saints” is a new book by Woodeene Koenig-Bricker. The author includes saints that represent the cultural, racial and gender diversity of the church.
A PLACE FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS
Parish celebrates hall opening as
it
bids farewell to longtime pastor
By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org
SCIPIO — In the choir loft. Under the choir loft. In the sacristy. In the rectory’s laundry room. In the rectory library. On the back porch.
Those are just some of the spots religious education students of St. Boniface Parish in Scipio and nearby St. Therese Parish in Richmond met for classes. That’s no longer the case.
On Sept. 28, the parishes’ 140 families held a soft opening of their new 11,500-square-foot parish hall, allowing for tours, fellowship and refreshments.
The gathering doubled as a farewell party for Father Gerald Williams, O.Carm., who retired as pastor of the two parishes on June 30 but stayed around to finish overseeing the project. On Oct. 1, he returned to the Carmelite priory in his native Chicago after serving as pastor for 17 years.
Holding giant scissors, Father Gerald offered a prayer prior to cutting the ribbon.
Invoking the intercession of both parish patrons, he prayed for the hall to “be a welcoming place to others and the receiving of your (God’s) grace through our interactions, through our friendship and through the . . . good times — as well as the bad — that will be remembered here for another century to come.”
He also expressed his gratitude to all of those who had given of their time, talent and treasure to the project.
Designed by Zimmerschied Architecture of Lawrence and constructed by Loyd Builders of Ottawa, the new facility, parishioners hope, will last at least 100 years. The former building’s cornerstone was laid exactly 100 years ago and served parishioners until June 2021 when what might have been a microburst blew off the majority of the hall’s roof, as well as that of the church. Ironically, the parishes had planned to build a hall. The storm damage sped up the process by providing insurance monies, jump-starting fundraising efforts.
Planning began in the fall of 2021, but it was not until late in 2024 that the hall’s concrete slab was poured, with construction getting into high gear this past spring.
The new building features approximately 9,000 square feet of usable
IT MAKES US HAPPY TO KNOW THAT WE HAVE A PARISH CENTER FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS.
NANCY HERMRECK ST. BONIFACE PARISHIONER
space, an increase of 2,000 when compared to the previous hall. More importantly, though, the new hall sits on one level instead of three. So, parishioners won’t have to climb or descend stairs. And there’s plenty of space for religious education.
Annually, the parish instructs 70 kids in kindergarten through senior year of high school. Prior to the storm, parishioners used PVC pipes and tarps as dividers, but as sisters
Carol Lutz and Nancy Hermreck and fifth-generation parishioners explained, the dividers often had to be disassembled for wedding receptions and reassembled for classes.
Lutz, the current religious education director, said the new hall features eight multipurpose rooms, two of which are larger than the others and two with removable walls, providing a maximum seating capacity of 250 to 275.
Besides the spacious main room and multipurpose rooms, the sisters said the new kitchen and office will serve the parishes well for funeral dinners, wedding receptions, Christmas parties and the annual bazaar, which typically attracts around 800. The office will allow photocopying to be done on-site instead of off-site or at the rectory.
“To me, there’s not as much unity without a building,” Lutz said. “You go to church together, and you might visit outside of church, but when you have an actual event, you get to see everybody and visit with everybody again.
And it’s just more community-minded. I mean, we have a home again.”
Hermreck agreed, saying, “It makes us happy to know that we have a parish center for future generations.”
Father Gerald has high hopes for the hall.
“It’s a very functional building for adult education or other programming because you can give a talk or a speech to a large group, and then all those multipurpose rooms could be used for breakout sessions,” he said.
“I hope this might enliven some of the archdiocesan programming to know that there’s another resource at least here in the Southern Region, if not even broader than that,” he added.
As for moving, he said, “It is a bittersweet leaving, but I have redone two churches and I was here for the renovation of the priory. I do get a kick out of doing big projects like this, but I’m 74 and I think I can let go of that pretty easily and just decorate my own room.”
LEAVEN PHOTO BY MARC ANDERSON
On Sept. 28, St. Boniface Parish in Scipio held a soft opening of its new 11,500-square-foot parish hall, allowing for tours, fellowship and refreshments.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY MARC ANDERSON
Father Gerald Williams, O.Carm., retired pastor of St. Boniface Parish in Scipio, cuts the ceremonial ribbon to open the new parish hall. Father Gerald, who retired as pastor on June 30, stayed on to finish overseeing the project. On Oct. 1, he returned to the Carmelite priory in his native Chicago after serving as pastor for 17 years.
Benedictine creates new center to address AI in the classroom
By Jack Figge OSV News
ATCHISON (OSV News)
— Colleges stand on the front lines of the artificial intelligence (AI) debate, balancing how to address students that rely on chatbots to write papers and weighing how to best prepare students to enter a new workforce supported by AI.
One Catholic college is embracing this challenge by starting a center for technology and human dignity that will host talks, discussions and publish resources to help students, teachers and others navigate the complex, ever-changing world of artificial intelligence from a Catholic perspective.
Benedictine College in Atchison announced Sept. 7 that it would be launching the Center for Technology and Human Dignity under the patronage of the recently canonized St. Carlo Acutis.
“Pope Leo XIV has asked Catholics to address the rise of artificial intelligence,” said Benedictine College president Stephen D. Minnis. “We are excited to dedicate this center under the patronage of St. Carlo Acutis, a model of how Catholics should use new technology thoughtfully but without fear. And its biomedical emphasis will help as we pursue a medical school.”
The school tapped Mariele Courtois, a theology professor, bioethicist and member of the Vatican Dicastery for Culture and Education’s research group on artificial intelligence, to lead the new center.
“Pope Leo is anticipating a new AI industrial revolution which we are already seeing the beginnings of. It brings questions about the dignity of the worker, the relationship of the person to their work and distancing the person from that important relationship,” Courtois told OSV News.
“The center will really address questions like: How do we properly approach technology? What is the right human formation? How to develop technologies that support human flourishing?” she said.
The recent popularization of AI has brought a plethora of moral questions to the forefront of theological discussions, chief among those are questions about the human person and human nature.
Courtois believes.
“It’s the responsibility of academia to stay current with new developments in order to determine how to respond to them and to explore if there’s potential for good uses and how to integrate them,” Courtois said. “Discerning when those uses are helpful and applicable and discerning when they can be harmful is really important.”
Timothy Kasprzak, a junior at Benedictine, first encountered AI as a senior in high school. He was intrigued by the new technology and its capabilities, yet worried about the potential harm it could inflict on students.
When he arrived at Benedictine and immersed himself in his studies, he began to see the ever-present threat of AI.
usage among the student body. Courtois has seen the good work that the task force has accomplished and hopes to build off of it.
“The task force has encouraged the faculty to reflect to the students the love they have for their discipline because it is really helpful to motivate them to want to do their work when they see the value in it,” Courtois said. “Students realize that it is beyond just getting a grade or simply getting a job, but learning deepens their knowledge of the gift of God’s creation and their ability to go into a deeper relationship with God.”
Another concern for Courtois that she hopes to address is the way AI threatens to distort student’s view of vocation and how they perceive God’s call for their life.
“AI leads us to ask a lot of questions such as: What is human nature? What is the human person? What is the vocation of the human person?” Courtois said.
“The fact that it is called artificial intelligence is making an implicit claim about what we think intelligence is. It calls into question our ability to talk about what is the nature of the person, and how do we use AI capacities in a way that doesn’t limit and impede the human person,” Courtois said. “Another big concern is that with all technologies there can be this distancing of the person, and I think we see that very evidently with AI.”
Colleges are apt institutions to be addressing these questions as they are on the front lines in the struggle with AI,
“AI is a massive threat to students, but not in the ways that people commonly think,” Kasprzak said. “It is causing students to be less creative and less impassioned about their work. AI will always present the most common solution, and while that is a helpful tool to potentially utilize, I see AI taking away creativity, expression and voice from students, trading them for the common consensus of culture.”
A few years ago, Benedictine established an AI task force to tackle AI
“The liberal arts and Catholic missioncentered approach of the curriculum at Benedictine allows for students to be thinking about those questions deeply. This center will have the infrastructure that is geared toward helping students think about and discern their vocation in the midst of AI.”
OSV NEWS PHOTO/BENEDICTINE COLLEGE
A student is seen in an undated photo working with a robotic arm in the engineering lab at Benedictine College in Atchison. The college announced Sept. 7 that it would be launching the Center for Technology and Human Dignity under the patronage of the recently canonized St. Carlo Acutis.
OSV NEWS PHOTO/BENEDICTINE COLLEGE
Mariele Courtois, a theology professor, bioethicist and member of the Vatican Dicastery for Culture and Education’s research group on artificial intelligence, will head a new center for technology and human dignity at Benedictine College in Atchison.
Prairie Star invites your input,
By Therese Horvat Special to The Leaven
WILLIAMSBURG —
Five minutes is all it takes to complete an online survey to help inform the strategic planning process underway for Prairie Star Ranch here. And all are welcome! (See sidebar.)
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the archdiocesan ministry. Prairie Star Ranch is a high adventure camp and retreat ministry for youth and families. It is also available as a rental venue for retreats and events.
“In light of this moment in our ministry’s history, members of our advisory board, in collaboration with our staff, created a survey to examine the reach and impact of Prairie Star Ranch over the past quarter-century,” said Gregory Wellnitz, director.
“We aim to gain a more data-driven understanding of our reach and impact throughout the archdiocese,” he continued, “enabling us to better understand how to remain faithful and effective in our mission of accompanying youth and families into encounters with Jesus Christ and his church.”
Wellnitz said the team’s goal is to engage as many Catholics in northeast Kansas as possible in completing the survey — both those familiar with the ministry and those who have not participated in Prairie Star Ranch programs or been to the 300-acre site.
Harold Bradley, a longtime supporter of the ministry, proposed the survey in a recent meeting of the Prairie Star Ranch advisory board of which he is a member.
“We all realized that we need a baseline understanding of what folks have experienced at the ranch and what they think they know about the ranch and what it does today. This survey is our attempt to get to that baseline by gathering and analyzing data,” he explained.
Bradley encouraged people from all parts of the archdiocese — rural,
By Therese Horvat Special to The Leaven
Keven if you’ve never been there
suburban and urban parishes — to complete the survey to help ensure a broad representation. He also considers the survey a tool to inform and update respondents about services provided by Prairie Star Ranch.
“My hope is that we receive a wide array of responses — both from those with up-close and personal engagement at the ranch and those who might not even be aware of Prairie Star Ranch despite its 25-year history,” Bradley said.
Wellnitz believes the findings of this survey will be instrumental in shaping the future of the ministry.
Advisory board members and staff will discuss input and feedback from
Complete the Prairie Star survey today!
Take five minutes to complete a survey to help Prairie Star Ranch plan the future of its ministry. By entering your email address at the conclusion of your survey responses, you will have the chance to win a free 2026 Camp Tekakwitha registration for the camper of your choice. Deadline for submitting your survey is 9 p.m. on Oct. 20.
Access the survey by scanning the QR code or go online to: www.surveymonkey.com/r/37N3VZX.
the survey as they update the ranch’s strategic plan with goals focused on mission. With the baseline established through this year’s efforts, Bradley and
Fund provides headstones for deceased infants
ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Working through the heartbreak of losing her newborn son, Nicole Lauer chose to memorialize him by creating a fund to provide headstones for other infants who have died.
Initially established in the Diocese of Wichita, the Kade Lauer Memorial Fund has expanded to encompass families served by Catholic Cemeteries of Northeast Kansas, a ministry of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. Bryan Alonzo, director of operations and sales, said that Catholic Cemeteries offers discounted burial arrangements for families who have experienced the loss of an infant. However, this does not include a headstone.
“The Kade Lauer Memorial Fund gives us an important resource to draw from to assist families challenged by the expense of purchasing a headstone for the gravesite of a deceased infant,” Alonzo said. “We appreciate that Nicole reached out to us and has enabled us to provide additional support for the families we serve.”
THE KADE LAUER MEMORIAL
FUND GIVES US AN IMPORTANT RESOURCE TO DRAW FROM TO ASSIST FAMILIES CHALLENGED BY THE EXPENSE OF PURCHASING A HEADSTONE FOR THE GRAVESITE OF A DECEASED INFANT.
BRYAN ALONZO
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS AND SALES FOR CATHOLIC CEMETERIES OF NORTHEAST KANSAS
Lauer was originally from St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee, where she and her husband Brian were married. The couple has lived in Wichita the past several years. Nicole was teaching first grade and progressing through a normal first pregnancy. She recalls that things were moving along with no signs of any problems and that everything seemed fine. Until it wasn’t.
She went into premature labor. Kade was born at 2:30 a.m. on April 17, 2018. He lived for only 99 minutes. This was time enough to form a lasting bond of love with his parents, to be baptized and to meet his grandparents.
When Kade died, Nicole knew she wanted to do something special to remember him. While visiting his grave in the Catholic cemetery in Wichita where Kade is buried, she noticed infant graves without headstones. This apparent unmet need tugged at her heart and led to a discussion with the staff of Catholic Cemeteries of Wichita.
In 2022, using social media, Nicole invited her family and friends to contribute to a fund named in memory of Kade. Its main purpose was to offset the expense of headstones for deceased infants.
The response exceeded — and continues to exceed — Nicole’s expectations. To date, the fund has provided headstones for 53 infants, most of them buried in Wichita’s three Catholic cemeteries. That number is expected to increase as the fund grows here in the archdiocese.
Hearing Kade’s name associated with the fund has helped Nicole heal. She feels a connection with other parents who have lost their infants.
Nicole dreams of someday establishing a nonprofit agency to oversee this fund. For now, however, the busy mom of two healthy daughters, ages 6 and 4, is focused on being the voice to tell the story behind the fund and to encourage contributions from donors.
The Catholic Cemeteries organizations in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and in the Diocese of Wichita serve as the repositories of the fund. Cemetery family service advisers discuss the fund with families who have lost an infant to determine if there is a need for full or partial financial assistance for a headstone. Financial contributions to the fund serving the archdiocese are tax-exempt and can be made through the Catholic Cemeteries’ website at: cathcemks. org/kade-lauer-memorial-fund; or by sending a check payable to Catholic Cemeteries, P.O. Box 19203, Lenexa, KS 66285 (noting in the memo: Kade Lauer Memorial Fund). Catholic Cemeteries also has funds available to assist with burial arrangements for infants and special services for unborn children. Visit the website at: cathcemks.org/ unborn-children-and-infants; call (913) 3714040; or send an email to: information@ cathcemks.org.
Wellnitz anticipate that the survey will become an annual assessment.
LEAVEN FILE PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Prairie Star Ranch, the archdiocesan high adventure camp and retreat ministry for youth and families in Williamsburg, is looking for input about the ranch to better understand how to remain faithful and effective in its mission.
Stop quizzing, start welcoming: Every family is a beautiful family
Whenever
I take my kids anywhere in public, I get comments.
“All boys?! Didn’t you ever try for a girl?”
“Five?! You must be crazy!”
“Are they all yours?”
We are far from the only family whose mere presence attracts attention. The same phenomenon happens to friends whose children use wheelchairs or walkers, families whose kids come from different racial backgrounds and parents with wide age gaps between children.
Strangers’ curiosity leads to prying questions, even insulting insinuations: “Which ones are yours? Don’t you know how this happens? What’s wrong with that one? Couldn’t you have more?”
Suddenly, you find yourself defending your most personal or painful experiences in public. After a while, even your polite replies can wear thin. I’ll never forget the sweltering day at the state fair when my spouse was so sick of strangers stopping us to comment on our brood of boys that when one man yelled at us, “What happened to the girls?” my normally patient husband hollered back, “They’re in heaven!” (We still laugh that our twins must have smiled from above to watch their
dad defend their existence.)
Any version of a family you see in public is often only the tip of the iceberg. You can’t see the babies who didn’t survive, the adoptions that unraveled or the estranged adult children for whom their parents pray every night. Families deserve to be seen and supported not for whether they measure up to anyone else’s expectations, but because they are formed by humans created in the image of God, striving to love each other through their struggles. A married couple makes a family, two people blessed to share life together. A single person is part of their family of origin and their chosen family of friends. Widowed,
divorced and remarried people often remain part of multiple families. What a gift we could give to each other, if we stopped the curious question (or the catchy quip) that leaps to our lips and instead offered a simple encouragement with a smile: “What a beautiful family!”
When Jesus welcomed a child into his arms — embracing the very distraction that his disciples tried to prevent — he reminded us that whoever welcomes a child welcomes him and
the One who sent him (Mk 9:37). Part of our calling as Catholics is to support the sacredness of life, no matter the context or circumstances. Rather than jumping to assumptions or asking curious questions about the makeup of anyone’s family, why not follow Jesus’ lead and simply welcome each other with open arms?
“What a beautiful family” has become my default response whenever I meet someone new. I can tell you that it works wonders. Stressed parents will
smile over the heads of rowdy children. Doting dads of one will thank you for seeing their family as full and worthy. Mothers who have lost babies to miscarriage can feel all their children included for once. Married couples are grateful for the affirmation of the family they have made together. The body of Christ is a beautiful, diverse family. We are single and married, divorced and widowed. We have built families through adoption and fostering, marriage and birth.
We have known deep loss and great joy from our families of origin, and we have widened our circles of welcome to build chosen families, watching in awe as God creates anew. Jesus himself defied traditional definitions of family when he taught his followers that “whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother” (Mk 3:35). May we always remember that in the kingdom of God, kinship is defined by faithful love.
LAURA KELLY FANUCCI
Laura Kelly Fanucci is an author, speaker and founder of Mothering Spirit, an online gathering place on parenting and spirituality.
OSV NEWS PHOTO/JACLYN LIPPELMANN, CATHOLIC STANDARD
A file photo shows a family praying during Mass at the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle in Washington.
Prayer helps us ‘face dragons every day’
>> Continued from page 2
modern saints,” Koenig-Bricker said. “The earlier iterations focused on very traditional saints of the church. I wanted this to reflect modern times.
“Secondly, I wanted it to be much more diverse. When people thought about saints in the past, they tended to think of priests and nuns from the Middle Ages, as opposed to contemporary people.
“I wanted to make this up to date with very contemporary people and modern saints.”
One of the modern saints included is Carlo Acutis, who became the first millennial saint at his canonization in September.
Koenig-Bricker also wanted to include saints that represented the cultural, racial and gender diversity of the church. She included many women as well as laypeople, and people from every ethnicity and continent.
“I wanted this to have a broad vision of what the church is and of what sainthood is like,” she said.
Her personal favorites are prayers from Julian of Norwich and Gregory of Nazianus.
Julian’s prayer reads: “All shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner of thing shall be well.”
It helps to bring her comfort.
“Julian of Norwich’s prayer is a wonderful mantra that is so suitable for so many times in our
lives,” Koenig-Bricker said. “It’s a short, heartfelt prayer that affirms trust, but it’s also very comforting. It’s easy to remember and it’s very soothing for lots of situations.”
Gregory’s prayer focuses on the many challenges that we are all faced with, referred to as “dragons” in the prayer. She can relate to and empathize with Gregory.
“We face dragons every day,” she said. “All of us have our own individual dragons to face, whatever it is. I think this prayer gives us a chance to recognize that there’s a real commonality for us.”
Her two favorite saints, however, are different.
Nicholas Black Elk was born in present day Montana, which is where Koenig-Bricker grew up.
She also likes how he didn’t abandon his roots after becoming Catholic in 1904.
“Even after he converted to Catholicism, he never rejected the rituals and expressions of spirituality from his people,” Koenig-Bricker said. “He has a profound and deep respect for the creatures that live upon the earth, almost like one of the very first environmentalists.”
If canonized, Nicholas Black Elk will be the second Native American saint after Kateri Tekakwitha.
Her other favorite is Josephine Bakhita, who was captured as a slave in what is now Sudan and sold various
times. One of those times was to an Italian who took her to Italy, where she was placed in the care of the Canossian Sisters in Venice.
But when he came to take her back, she refused and used the Italian court system to prove that she was a free woman and had the right to refuse her return to slavery.
“I love the idea that we don’t have to just simply accept whatever comes our way as being God’s will,” KoenigBricker said. “We can use our own mind and the laws of our land to create our own destiny. I love how she stood up to the system — and won.”
Koenig-Bricker hopes people who need encouragement in prayer, are interested in the saints and who want to explore some of the richness of the Catholic faith will read this book.
She hopes people take away from it that the saints might be more relevant to them than they might think.
“I hope what people take away from it is that saints have experienced everything that we have experienced, and their lives are not very different from ours,” she said. “They have the same joys and sorrows, struggles and issues that all of us have. We just need to realize that it doesn’t matter what your state in life is. We all encounter such commonalities.
“Hopefully, there’s at least one person in this book whose prayer resounds with you as a reader.”
Maur Hill-Mount Academy announces Alumni of the Year
ATCHISON — Maur HillMount Academy here named Bernadette Urban and her late husband Jerry as the 2025 Alumni of the Year. The Urbans were honored at the League of St. Maur Gala on Sept. 20 at the Loews Hotel in downtown Kansas City, Missouri.
Both natives of Atchison, Jerry graduated from Maur Hill Prep in 1959 and Bernadette from Mount St. Scholastica Academy in 1963.
The Urbans raised three children— sons Jerry and Scott, who graduated from MH-MA, and a daughter Brenda who graduated from Atchison County Community High School.
They were deeply committed supporters of their children and grandchildren, never missing a game. Even when Jerry’s health declined, they tuned in via livestream to cheer on their grandchildren.
“We did it because we loved the school and our grandkids,” Bernadette said.
The couple gave generously of their time and talents to MH-MA — organizing creative fundraisers like corn shucking contests, grilling hamburgers for the 500 Club, painting and maintaining athletic fields, installing football lights and making the famous sausages for the Bob Goalby Golf Classic in Bonner Springs.
FOSTERING FAMILIES FIND SUPPORT IN EACH OTHER
But could use your help, too
By Amy Reinhardt Special to the Leaven:
“Families go into it thinking they’re going to help the child, but that child ends up helping them grow in holiness,” said Kathy White, foster care coordinator for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.
And the foster family’s mission, she continued, is simple: “Your job is to be the hands and feet of Christ — and love on these kids.”
White has worked tirelessly to educate and train the expanding number of foster care ministries in the archdiocese.
So far, seven churches have active ministries: Holy Trinity in Lenexa; Queen of the Holy Rosary and Church of the Ascension in Overland Park; Church of the Nativity, Curé of Ars, and St. Michael the Archangel in Leawood; and St. Joseph in Shawnee.
Five more are kicking off their involvement: St. Paul in Olathe; Holy Spirit in Overland Park; Good Shepherd in Shawnee; Holy Angels in Basehor; and St. Pius X in Mission.
White emphasizes the importance of building a community for all the foster families in Kansas City and beyond.
She has seen how overwhelming it is for new foster parents, which is why it is crucial to assist them in whatever way possible.
“That’s what we’re doing with the foster care ministry,” said White. “We are supporting these families so they can do the hard work, which is loving these kids who come from hard places.”
It’s true not every family can physically bring a child into their home, but that does not mean they can’t do something to help those who can.
White encourages those who are
Kristyn Antonucci and her husband Anthony belong to St. Paul Parish in Olathe. They have fostered for over four years and have welcomed 20 children in their homes. She reunited with a foster child from the Malones’ home at Mass. The Antonucci and Malone families have become close in order to keep their foster children in relationship with their birth siblings. The Antonuccis remain open as an adoptive resource and are praying for a forever placement.
not foster parents to think of ways they can help, to reflect on the unique talents God gave them.
An example could be teachers serving as tutors to work with foster children who have fallen behind due to an inconsistent education. Or cooking enthusiasts preparing delicious, nutritious meals for foster families.
It was Archbishop Emeritus Joseph F. Naumann who felt inspired to start the foster care ministry in the archdiocese. Holy Trinity was the first parish to get involved.
During her time as the archdiocesan foster care coordinator, White has witnessed incredible connections made between foster families.
One of these unplanned blessings involved the Antonuccis and Malones.
How you can support a family that is fostering
1. Ask how the parents are doing. A call or visit can make a huge difference.
2. Deliver a meal or restaurant gift card. Donate age-appropriate clothes or toys.
3. Learn the names of the foster kids and find ways to make them feel special.
4. Offer to babysit the children so the foster parents can have a night off.
5. Help with household chores or run errands, such as grocery shopping.
6. If your church doesn’t have a ministry, learn how to start one by visiting the website at: archkck.org/foster/how-my-parish-can-help.
Leap of faith results in years of fostering
Anthony and Kristyn Antonucci, from Olathe, have been foster parents for the last four years. The couple has had 16 placements, including shortterm, long-term, respite and emergency.
For Kristyn, it seemed nothing short of a calling. She was eager to jump in after learning how many kids need a place to go and a loving family to care for them.
Anthony always thought about adopting, but wasn’t as familiar with fostering.
“Kristyn and I, even when we first met, always talked about having a big family,” he said.
The couple already had three children when they earned their fosterto-adopt license through Developing Caring Communities Committed to Action (DCCCA).
The couple spoke about the thoroughness of the licensing process. There are three months of classes and trainings. There are also inspections of the home and all vehicles.
THAT’S WHAT WE’RE DOING WITH THE FOSTER CARE MINISTRY. WE ARE SUPPORTING THESE FAMILIES SO THEY CAN DO THE HARD WORK, WHICH IS LOVING THESE KIDS WHO COME FROM HARD PLACES.
KATHY WHITE FOSTER CARE COORDINATOR FOR THE ARCHDIOCESE OF KANSAS CITY IN KANSAS
Every family member must be fingerprinted and background-checked. The process even ensures all pets are properly vaccinated.
Even though it is exhaustive, it doesn’t stop Anthony and Kristyn from getting relicensed each year.
The age range of their foster kids has been from 2 to 14. Each child may
LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE
Lindy Katzer and her husband Travis belong to Holy Angels Parish in Garnett. They have fostered for foster care, you’re not expected to foster for the rest of your life. If you can open your home for a life. And odds are, that kiddo will change you and your family’s lives, too,” she said.
be with the family for a couple of days, weeks or months.
The couple’s longest placement so far has been nine months.
Their three kids adjusted well to them becoming foster parents. Anthony mentioned how amazing it’s been to see them flourish because of the experience.
“It’s given them a new perspective on how many people need some extra love and care in this world,” he said.
Of course, fostering is not always smooth sailing. There are tough days.
“I don’t know how you would be a foster parent without an element of faith,” Kristyn said. “Every single thing you can imagine — neglect, abuse, starvation — we’ve seen it all in our stint as foster parents.”
The Antonuccis have been with St. Paul Church for six years. The parish and school have offered tremendous support by showing up with toys, clothes and meals.
“My faith has grown exponentially in this journey,” Anthony said. “Our church, school and community are the three pillars of strength that made me say, ‘We can do this, and I want to do this.’”
When it comes to serving as a foster parent, the most challenging part for Kristyn has been letting go.
“You have to fully trust because you have zero control as a foster parent,” she said. “I have to trust that there’s a bigger plan for this child.”
Fostering has made Anthony a better person, father and listener. He shared how he’s been pushed, both good and bad, but recognizes that God won’t give someone more than they can handle.
The husband and wife agree the most rewarding moment is seeing a child feel comfortable and safe in their home, because they know they’re cared for, wanted and a part of the family.
Respite care turns into long-term responsibility
Over an hour southwest of the Antonuccis is a farm in Meriden. That is where you’ll find John and Cindy Malone.
During his childhood, John’s parents opened their home to kids who needed a safe place to stay. Their generosity and helpfulness planted an early seed in their son’s heart.
This seed blossomed when his wife Cindy broached the topic of foster care ministry decades later.
Like her husband’s, Cindy’s childhood had the theme of hospitality.
are beautiful little souls made in God’s likeness and image, and they deserve our love.”
John describes his fostering experience as humbling. He asks God for grace and guidance as he and his wife navigate daily hurdles with six kids.
“As a father,” he said, “it reminded me that fatherhood isn’t just about providing, it’s about being present, patient and willing to grow.”
Two Catholic families unite and become one
Living over an hour apart and belonging to two different parishes would usually have meant the Antonuccis and Malones would never cross paths.
But God works in mysterious ways. The Olathe- and Meriden-based couples were brought together because of the kids they were fostering.
The three young children living with John and Cindy in Meriden were siblings of the foster child placed with Kristyn and Anthony in Olathe.
All four children belong to the same nuclear family.
“The way we were raised was that our home was a safe haven,” she said. “You added more water to the gravy by inviting them in and making it work.”
The more they talked, the clearer it became that this was their mission. They also involved their three daughters in the discussion.
“I felt a mix of emotions: hope, nervousness and a deep sense of responsibility,” said John. “But at the heart of it all was a desire to love and care for children who needed stability.”
The couple began their journey as respite care providers, which means they took care of the kids when their foster family needed a break.
Cindy admitted they weren’t looking for long-term placement. Their primary goal was helping other foster families by offering this shortterm care.
Everything changed, however, after a life-changing phone call in 2024.
The result was John and Cindy becoming long-term foster parents to three young children.
Cindy loved seeing her husband and daughters warmly welcome these kids. The experience taught all of them how to love and accept people exactly as they are.
“You end up loving these kids the same as your own,” said Cindy. “It shouldn’t be called foster care — it should be called life care because we’re dealing with their lives. They
It wasn’t long before a profound bond formed between the foster families.
For Cindy, her connection with Kristyn was instant.
“After our first gathering,” she said, “my oldest daughter said, ‘I think mom found her new best friend.’”
John felt the same way about his friendship with Anthony.
“It’s been meaningful to connect with another dad who understands the unique joys and struggles of fostering,” he said.
The two mothers lean on each other and talk nearly every day. They’ll call if they need to vent or want advice. They also send each other inspirational quotes and Scripture passages.
When it comes to the siblings, the couples reunite them whenever possible and always for birthday celebrations. They go to the park, attend Mass and schedule playdates in Lawrence.
The couples feel a responsibility to foster that sibling bond because of how powerful and healing it is for the kids.
All four foster parents have been challenged in unique ways, but have also found they are more capable of love and acceptance than they ever imagined.
“If you even have a thought about fostering, explore it,” Kristyn urged. “Take some classes, talk to a local foster agency, seek out other foster parents and see if it could be right for you and your family.”
LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE
Archbishop Emeritus Joseph F. Naumann gives a high-five to a child in Cindy Malone’s care. Cindy and her husband John belong to St. Aloysius Parish in Meriden and have been fostering for a year.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE Foster teens from Catholic foster families in Topeka and Olathe bring up the gifts during a Foster Care Appreciation Mass in May, Foster Care Awareness Month.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE fostered seven children over six years. “If you sign up for just one kiddo in foster care, you can change
Catholic high school boys choir wows in ‘America’s Got Talent’ season finale
By Simone Orendain OSV News
CHICAGO (OSV News) — A Catholic high school boys choir from Chicago made it to the top five on the season finale of “America’s Got Talent” Sept. 24, prompting a message of pride and encouragement from Chicago Cardinal Blase J. Cupich.
The 18-member group from Leo High School steadily moved up the rounds of the hit TV talent show, beating out 40 of the 44 acts that competed in the live portion of the show, which auditioned more than 100 hopefuls for the 2025 season.
The young men, all of whom are African American, had wowed the “America’s Got Talent” audience and judges alike with their performance of “Centuries” by Fall Out Boy Sept. 16.
Simon Cowell, a celebrity judge who is known as the toughest talent appraiser of more than 20 years, said the Catholic high school boys
“progressed the most” among this year’s cohort.
He told the choir upon placing fourth Sept. 24 that they “are going to inspire so many people, and I really mean that.”
He said, “You have an amazing talent. You have an amazing mentor and it has been an honor, honestly, having you on the show.”
For their final performance Sept. 24, the singers took the stage in orange and white cardigans emblazoned with the letter “L” and prep school blazers, stomping to a rendition of “Hall of Fame” by The Script, singing powerfully with rich melodic voices and crisp harmonies that had the audience clapping, waving and cheering.
After their final performance, the boys’ mentor and choir director Ladonna Hill expressed gratitude and thanked the show and “America,” the TV audience and viewers who voted after each round.
“Thank you to every educator, every parent,” she emphasized.
In a statement, Cardinal Cupich said the young men of Leo High, whom Hill has said had no formal voice training, “made us proud beyond measure! You stood tall and shared your God-given gifts with grace and strength.”
“You showed the world what faith, spirit and brotherhood look like. Keep singing, leading, believing. God’s not done with you,” he added.
The superintendent of the Chicago archdiocesan schools gave a message of congratulations to the young men, calling them an “inspiration for Chicago and the nation.”
On June 14, the Leo High School boys sang a cappella for the Chicago Archdiocese’s Mass and celebration of hometown native Pope Leo XIV’s election to the papacy, filling the air above the White Sox’s Rate Field with their clear voices. At the time, the students from the Catholic school on Chicago’s South Side had just gotten through the first round of the “America’s Got Talent” competition.
Pope will declare St. John Henry Newman doctor of the church
St. John Henry Newman
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Leo XIV announced he will proclaim St. John Henry Newman a doctor of the church Nov. 1 during the Jubilee of the World of Education. Speaking after Mass Sept. 28 for the Jubilee of Catechists, the pope said the saint “contributed decisively to the renewal of theology and to the understanding of the development of Christian doctrine.” The Dicastery for the Causes of Saints had announced July 31 that Pope Leo “confirmed the affirmative opinion” of the cardinals and bishops who are members of the dicastery “regarding the title of Doctor of the Universal Church which will soon be conferred on St. John Henry Newman, Cardinal of the Holy Roman Church, Founder of the Oratory of St. Philip Neri in England.” The saint was born in London Feb. 21, 1801, was ordained an Anglican priest, became Catholic in 1845, was made a cardinal in 1879 by Pope Leo XIII and died in Edgbaston, near Birmingham, England, in 1890.
Pope taps Italian canon lawyer for top position at Dicastery for Bishops
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — In the first major appointment of his papacy, Pope Leo XIV chose an Italian expert in canon law to succeed him as prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. Archbishop Filippo Iannone, 67, has led the Dicastery for Legislative Texts since 2018 and will begin his new role Oct. 15, the Vatican press office announced Sept. 26. Pope Leo, as Cardinal Robert F. Prevost, led the Dicastery for Bishops and the pontifical commission from early 2023 until his election as pope in May. The dicastery coordinates the search for candidates to fill the office of bishop in most of the Latin-rite dioceses around the world and makes recommendations about their appointments to the pope. It also deals with setting up, uniting, suppressing dioceses; changing diocesan boundaries; and setting up military ordinariates and ordinariates for Catholics who have come from the Anglican Communion.
Annual Three Hearts Pilgrimage seeks to unite families, pray for country
By Jack Figge OSV News
HULBERT,
Okla. (OSV News)
— Six years ago, Marcus Robinson and a few other dads organized a short pilgrimage for their sons. The boys loved it so much that they did the same pilgrimage the following year, and the year after that, inviting more and more people each year.
“Many of the pilgrims say it’s the highlight of their year and that they really want to come back and participate,” Robinson told OSV News. He said the first year they did it, in October
2020, about 500 people responded to the invitation to join them and pray for the country in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It is one of those things that people talk about for the rest of their lives,” he said.
This year, the now annual Three Hearts Pilgrimage plans to welcome 3,000 participants for the 35-mile, threeday pilgrimage through rural Oklahoma to Our Lady of Clear Creek Abbey, a Benedictine monastery in Hulbert.
Named to honor the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Immaculate Heart of Mary and most chaste heart of St. Joseph, the Three Hearts Pilgrimage seeks to foster
family relationships while praying for the country.
“We focus on the family and that’s what the pilgrimage is for,” Robinson said. “We are walking in defense of the traditional family as well as the sanctity of life.”
This year’s event is scheduled to begin Oct. 9 with a rally at the Illinois River in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, for pilgrims to come together in comradery, hear a talk and camp out overnight. The pilgrimage is set to begin the next morning, with a planned midday stop for a Mass outdoors and lunch.
That night, Oct. 10, eucharistic adoration takes place while pilgrims camp out-
side. The pilgrimage then continues to Clear Creek Abbey for a pontifical Mass followed by a barbecue lunch Oct. 11.
“Seeing the joy and the beauty that comes from the pilgrims doing this together with one another is my favorite part of every year,” Robinson said. “You see fathers connecting with their sons and mothers with their daughters. They are all doing something very difficult, but they have a profound sense of spirituality and accomplishment.”
Over the years, Robinson said, he has seen how the pilgrimage has become a powerful opportunity for families to come together to participate in a meaningful bonding experience.
OSV NEWS PHOTO/TRAE PATTON, NBC
Members of the Leo High School Choir appear on stage during the 20th season finale of the talent competition series “America’s Got Talent” on Sept. 24.
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) 7075679.
ST. AGNES CLASS OF ’75 REUNION
The Alley (formerly the bowling alley) 5250 Mission Rd., Roeland Park
Oct. 4 at 6:30 p.m.
Can you believe it has been 50-plus years since we were all together? There will be Mass at 4:30 p.m. and possibly a tour of the school after. BYOB and a snack to share. Send an RSVP email to Mary Pat O’Neill Smith at: marypat.smith61@gmail. com or text (770) 316-3455.
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.
RESPECT LIFE MASS
Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish 5501 Monticello Rd., Shawnee Oct. 5 at 9:30 a.m.
To kick off Respect Life Month, all are invited to celebrate Mass with Archbishop Emeritus Joseph F. Naumann. There will be a reception following Mass, and several archdiocesan life-affirming ministries will be present to share information.
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
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.”
WORKING IN CATHOLIC SCHOOLS
Virtual Zoom Event
Oct. 8 from 5 to 6 p.m.
Are you a new or soon-to-be college graduate? A public school teacher looking to work in Catholic schools? A professional looking for a career change? The offices of Catholic schools and the dioceses of Dodge City, Salina and Wichita are hosting an informational Zoom session. Register online at: archkckcs.org/register.
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.
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.
PRAYER HOUR
Queen of the Holy Rosary Church
7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park
Oct. 11 at 9 a.m. and other times
Do you have a special devotion to Padre Pio? A prayer group has started that meets every month on the second Saturday at 9 a.m. The next month it will be held at Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe on Nov. 8. It will rotate each month between those two parishes. Call Judy for information at (913) 963-3191.
TRIVIA NIGHT
St. Therese Little Flower Church 5814 Euclid Ave., Kansas City, Missouri
Oct. 11, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Join us for the best Knights of Columbus Catholic trivia event in Kansas City. The cost is: $100/table for 8 or $12.50/person. BYO food/drink. There will be 10 rounds, 2 games and cash prizes. Trivia newbies, children and walk-ins are welcome. If possible, send an email RSVP to: trivianight2000@ gmail.com or call (816) 474-3115.
ICARE MINISTRIES MASS
Queen of the Holy Rosary 7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park
Oct. 11 at 6 p.m.
iCare ministries provides two adapted Mass opportunities per month for children and adults with developmental disabilities and their families. Send an email to: icarenek@gmail.com with questions. Visit the website at: icare-ministries.org for more information about this and other activities.
POLISH HERITAGE 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+ 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.
SAUSAGE DINNER
Sacred Heart Church 22298 Newbury Rd., Paxico
Oct. 12, 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
The dinner begins after 10:30 a.m. Mass. There will be bingo, games, raffles, silent auction. Cost for the meal is: adults, $14; ages 5-12, $7; 4 years and under are free. Contact Sue Flach at (785) 249-3595 or send an email to: msflach03@gmail.com.
FALL FESTIVAL
Sacred Heart-St Casimir Church 1405 2nd Ave., Leavenworth
Oct. 12 from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The meal consists of a pulled pork sandwich with sides of coleslaw, baked beans and corn casserole. There will also be games for kids, including an inflatable course, cakewalk, country store, silent auction and raffles. An adult dinner is $11; kids (12 and under): $6. There is both dine-in and carryout.
HOLY ROSARY RALLY
St. Andrew the Apostle Church 6415 N.E .Antioch Rd., Gladstone, Missouri Oct. 12 from 3 to 4:15 p.m.
Join us to honor Our Lady of Fatima by praying the joyful, sorrowful and glorious mysteries of the rosary followed by Benediction and the opportunity to enroll in the brown scapular. For more information, go online to: www.rosaryrallieskc.org.
WILLS AND TRUST WORKSHOP
St. Philip Neri Church (basement)
514 Parker Ave., Osawatomie Oct. 16 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Attorney Jon Stanfield will speak about the difference between a will and a trust; what is probate and how to avoid it; and how to leave money or assets to a church, ministry or the archdiocese. Register online at: cfnek.org/events; call (913) 647-3062; 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.
CANDLELIGHT HEALING AND REMEMBRANCE MASS
Queen of the Holy Rosary Church
7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park Oct. 14 at 7 p.m.
Have you or someone you know lost a child due to miscarriage, abortion or death of a child at any age? If so, join us to honor the children we’ve lost. A light reception will follow in the Fiat Center. For more information, send an email to: qhrwalking withmoms@gmail.com or call/text (913) 735-0583.
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.
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.
RESPECT LIFE SPEAKER EVENT
Holy Spirit Church
11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park Oct. 16 at 5:30 p.m.
Choose from presentations covering fertility, special needs, immigration and Catholic hospice care. The event begins with Mass, a light dinner at 6 p.m. and the speaker program at 7 p.m. Come for all or part of the evening. The event is free; registration is requested online at: archkck. org/pro-life-respect-life-month.
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.
WILLIAM
BAKER FESTIVAL SINGERS
Holy Angels Church 15438 Leavenworth, Rd., Basehor Oct. 19 at 4 p.m.
There will be a one-hour program with music from the singers’ upcoming concert season that begins in November. A freewill donation is requested. A reception follows the concert in the narthex.
ESTATE PLANNING 101
St. Patrick Church (St. Brigid Hall) 309 S. 6th St., Osage City Oct. 23 from 5:30 to 7 p.m.
This educational workshop will cover wills and trusts, avoiding probate and leaving a legacy with your loved ones. Register online at: www.cfnek.org/events/ estate-planning-101-4.
EMPLOYMENT
Receptionist - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking to hire a part-time receptionist who would be responsible for operating the main switchboard, receiving all calls and visitors to the Chancery, sorting mail and other clerical duties as assigned. Please visit “Employment Opportunities” on the archdiocesan website for more information or to apply.
Catholic elementary school principal - St. Matthew School in Topeka is seeking a dynamic and visionary leader with a passion for Catholic education. The principal will continue the school’s tradition of forming disciples, pursuing academic excellence and spiritual growth. The principal will lead by example and inspire a team of dedicated faculty and staff. Applicants must have or be eligible for Kansas licensure in educational leadership. Apply online at: archkckcs. org/apply. For more information, contact Vince Cascone at: vcascone@archkckcs.org.
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.
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.
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.
Faculty and adjunct faculty job openings - Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, is a Catholic college offering higher education for those who may not otherwise be served Faculty job openings - Nursing faculty, full-time evenings; nursing faculty, full-time M - F. Adjunct faculty job openings - Adjunct instructor nursing; Adjunct instructor Accounting; clinical adjunct instructor - nursing; - P.A.S.S. (Preparing Academically Successful Students) - part time. Adjunct faculty Lansing Correctional Campus - Adjunct instructor - math; adjunct instructor - accounting; clinical adjunct instructor - Find job descriptions and details at: www.donnelly.edu/careers.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Caregivers needed - Daughters & Company is looking for compassionate caregivers to provide assistance to seniors in their home, assisted living or in a skilled nursing facility. We provide sitter services, light housekeeping and light meal preparation, organizational assistance, care management and occasional transportation for our clients. We need caregivers with reliable transportation and a cellphone for communication. We typically employ on a part-time basis, but will strive to match hours desired. Contact Gary or Laurie at (913) 341-2500 if you want to become part of an excellent caregiving team.
SERVICES
Faith-based counseling to cope with life concerns - Kansas City area. Call Mary Vorsten, licensed clinical professional counselor, at (913) 909-2002.
!!Early 2025 painting discount!! - At Stone Painting, we offer interior and exterior house painting services. Check out our work at: www.stonepaintingkc.com.
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.
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.
Joe’s Decks & More Deck and fence repair, mowing and handyman services Member of St. Joseph in Shawnee (913) 449-9848
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.
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 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.
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
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
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.
HOME IMPROVEMENT
Haus to Home Remodeling - Transform your space with affordable remodeling done right. Bathrooms, basements and everything in between — crafted with honesty and quality. Family-owned with free estimates. Haustohomekc.com | Cole (913) 544-7352.
Shepaint Cabinets - Looking for a stunning, high-quality cabinet transformation? Shepaint Cabinets is a women-owned and operated business. I bring precision, passion and a personal touch to every project. Detail-driven service with a personal touch, reliable, efficient and customer-focused. Your dream kitchen is just a coat of paint away! Call/text (816) 806-4375 for a free quote. Let’s create something beautiful together! Father and Son Home Remodeling - We specialize in kitchen/bathroom and basement remodeling, from start to finish. We also do decks, covered decks, porches, sun-rooms and room additions! If you’re not sure we do it, just call. From my family to yours, thank you for supporting my small business. To contact me, call (913) 709-7230 and ask for Josh.
FOR SALE
For sale - 2-space casket crypt in “Holy Family” Mausoleum at Resurrection Cemetery in Lenexa. This is a choice space. The crypt is at eye level, a bench for sitting and a beautiful stained-glass window of the Holy Family nearby. This space sells for $17,718. We are asking $14,500, plus $250 transfer fee. Call Jim (913) 649-3721 or email: jwendlingstuff@gmail.com.
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.
Residential lifts - New and recycled. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. St. Michael’s parishioners. KC Lift & Elevator at (913) 327-5557. (Formerly Silver Cross - KC)
For sale - 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. >> Continued on page 13
>> Continued from page 12
For sale - Reversed 1.5 story house 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.
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.
For sale - Two cemetery plots at Johnson County Memorial Gardens in the Garden of Apostles, lot 213, spaces 1 and 2. Valued at $9750, asking $3750 per lot for a total of $7500 or best offer. Call Bailey at (913) 449-4699.
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
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.
Wanted to buy - Antiques & Collectibles: jewelry, military items, railroad, sterling, OLD holiday/toys and more. Renee Maderak (913) 475-7393. St. Joseph 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.
$$Paying Cash$$ - 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.
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.
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.
Patricia “Pat” (Theis) and Anton “Tony” Brox, members of St. Louis Parish, Good Intent, will celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary on Oct. 11 with immediate family. The couple was married on Oct. 8, 1960, at Corpus Christi Church, Mooney Creek. Their children are: Karen Shelly, Marcia Hughes, Nancy Koftan and Dennis Brox. They also have six grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Pat and Donna Mulligan, members of Christ the King Parish, Topeka, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on Sept. 11. The couple was married at Assumption Church, Topeka, on Sept. 11, 1965. They celebrated with a family dinner. Their children are: Brian Mulligan, Mike Mulligan and Carrie Grove. They also have eight grandchildren.
James and Marilyn (Trudelle) Krueger , members of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Emporia, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary with a card shower from family and friends. The couple was married on Oct. 12, 1975, at St. Raymond Church in Lynbrook, New York. Their children are: Rachael (Krueger) Pop, Patricia Krueger, James Krueger and Barbara Krueger. They also have five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
ANNIVERSARY SUBMISSIONS
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.
DAILY READINGS
TWENTY-SEVENTH
WEEK OF ORDINARY
TIME
Oct. 5
TWENTY-SEVENTH
SUNDAY IN ORDINARY
TIME
Hb 1: 2-3; 2: 2-4
Ps 95: 1-2, 6-9
2 Tm 1: 6-8, 13-14 Lk 17: 5-10
Oct. 6
Bruno, priest; Blessed Marie Rose Durocher, virgin
Jon 1:1 – 2:2, 11 (Ps) Jon 2: 2-5, 8 Lk 10: 25-37
Oct. 7
Our Lady of the Rosary Jon 3: 1-10
Ps 130: 1b-4ab, 7-8 Lk 10: 38-42
Oct. 8
Wednesday
Jon 4: 1-11
Ps 86: 3-6, 9-10 Lk 11: 1-4
Oct. 9
Denis, bishop, and companions, martyrs; John Leonardi, priest
Mal 3: 13-20b
Ps 1: 1-4, 6 Lk 11: 5-13
Oct. 10
Friday
Jl 1: 13-15; 2: 1-2
Ps 9: 2-3, 6, 8-9, 16 Lk 11: 15-26
Oct. 11
John XXIII, pope Jl 4: 12-21
Ps 97: 1-2, 5-6, 11-12 Lk 11: 27-28
BONIFACE
c. 675-754
Boniface, the apostle of Germany, started out as an English monk, a popular teacher, preacher and writer who was ordained at 30. He compiled a Latin grammar and wrote many biblical instructions. But he felt called to missionary work, and in 716, landed in Friesland, now in the Netherlands. After a brief stay, he traveled to Rome, where he received a broad commission to evangelize central Germany. By 722, he had become bishop of Germany, where he organized the church and secured its ties to Rome. Later, as archbishop of Mainz and papal legate, he was asked to reform the Frankish church. The patron saint of Germany was martyred in Friesland, the missionary territory he revisited in retirement.
I’m not sure that she’d remember this brief conversation we had years ago. I was chatting in the chancery hallway with Benedictine Sister Barbara McCracken who worked in the archdiocesan office for social justice. She mentioned being grateful to stretch out in a bed and sleep.
I must have had a puzzled expression because she explained, “Think of all the people who have to sleep outside scrunched up in doorways or on park benches. We are so blessed.”
I never imagined what a gift it was to be able to stretch out on a bed. Since that conversation with Sister Barbara, not a night goes by without my breathing a prayer of thanksgiving for the blessing to stretch out. Obviously, if you’ve got a bed to stretch out in, you’ve got a house surrounding it. And air-conditioning or heating. Clean water. A refrigerator. A dishwasher. A stove, microwave or air fryer
BShow me the way to go home
MARK MY WORDS
FATHER MARK GOLDASICH
Father
. . . or all three. Electricity. Furniture. Maybe a garage. The list of these often-unappreciated blessings could go on and on.
Let me interject a story here about a tourist from a big city who was hiking through the mountains of north Georgia. Coming across the tiniest cabin he’d ever seen, he was intrigued, knocked on the door and asked, “Is anybody home?”
“Yep,” came a kid’s
voice through the door.
“Is your father there?” “Pa? Nope, he left afore Ma came in.”
“Well, is your mother there?” “No, she left before I got here.”
“So then, you’re never together there as a family?” asked the tourist.
“Sure, but not here,” said the kid through the door. “This here’s the outhouse!”
That’s a funny story but housing really isn’t a funny topic.
This year marks the 40th anniversary of World Habitat Day, established by the United Nations and celebrated on the first Monday in October each year. The day invites us to “reflect on the state of our habitats and on
the basic right of all to adequate shelter.”
With that in mind, I retrieved a used book I bought a couple of years ago, entitled “Material World: A Global Family Portrait,” by Peter Menzel. Published in 1994, it’s chock-full of vivid color pictures and is a captivating study.
Sixteen photographers were sent to 30 nations around the globe to live for a week with an “average” family for that region.
At the end of the visit, the photographers captured a picture of the family outside their dwelling, surrounded by all their possessions. It’s staggering and disconcerting to visualize how much people in the First World have compared to folks in the Third World. It’s also fascinating to see their habitats — not only their homes but the surrounding countryside.
The theme for this year’s World Habitat Day deals with urban crisis response. This is a critical issue
worldwide, even in the States. Many people come to the parish asking for assistance because they’re homeless or can’t afford the rent, utilities or groceries to keep their families housed and fed. I admire organizations like Habitat for Humanity that builds houses for the poor or the Veterans Community Project that offers 49 tiny houses for homeless veterans in Kansas City, Missouri. I commend our own Catholic Charities, the Good Shepherd Thrift Store here in Tonganoxie and the many other centers that provide so many needed services for the “forgotten” among us. World Habitat Day is a wonderful opportunity to generously offer our time, treasure or talent to these charities that continue to be the compassionate hands and heart of Christ to our world. And tonight, before you drift off to sleep, don’t forget to thank God for being able to stretch out!
If you call yourself a Christian, says Jesus, act like one
etween the disciples of Jesus and those whose faith is mostly performative, whose piety is a bit too much for show, there should be the starkest difference. One should not be like the others; a Christian should act differently. That’s what this brief passage from Luke is about.
Taking in the broader context helps. Jesus has just told a parable about a rich man so enamored of his wealth, so isolated by it and so proud, that he doesn’t see the beggar right outside his gate (Lk 16: 19-31). By a study of contrasts, Jesus drew the outline of a disciple — what the Christian looks like, how the Christian acts.
Father Joshua J. Whitfield is pastor of St. Rita Catholic Community in Dallas and author of “The Crisis of Bad Preaching” and other books.
Which leads to the brief description of a disciple found in the few verses immediately preceding this
Sunday’s passage. The disciple lives a life free of scandal, not free from temptation but a life free of contradiction. The Christian also speaks the truth, rebuking even a brother if he should sin. But the Christian also forgives, and forgives repeatedly, refusing to withhold forgiveness no matter what; “you must forgive,” Jesus said. That’s what a disciple looks like, what a disciple does (Lk 17: 1-4).
That’s how the very next line, the opening line of this particular Sunday’s passage, makes sense. “The apostles said to the Lord, ‘Increase our faith!’” (Lk 17: 5)
In those few short verses, Jesus set a very
high bar, and in reply, the disciples beg for more faith. These words are perhaps exasperation as much as they are prayer. But Jesus does not lower the bar; he talks again about a mustard seed, this time making slightly different use of the image (Lk 17: 6; cf. Lk 13: 18-19). He doesn’t at all lessen the moral demand of Christian life; he simply says to the disciples: Yes, that’s a good idea; you should pray for more faith.
But even with such faith don’t expect a pat on the back from Jesus just yet. What follows, you see, most people today would consider harsh counsel. Simply to fulfill the basic moral commands of
the kingdom — those commands iterated, say, at the beginning of the chapter — is not to earn an extraordinary prize; it’s not even to feel able to expect one. Rather: “When you have done all you have been commanded, say, ‘We are unprofitable servants; we have done what we were obliged to do”’ (Lk 17:10). That, Jesus suggests, is the proper disposition of the Christian, extreme humility just like that. The lesson is simple: Be a humble servant. Don’t be like those who take too much pride in themselves and their religious status. In fact, don’t worry about status at all. Just call yourself a Christian and then act like one.
Pope asks everyone to pray the rosary for peace throughout October
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Leo XIV asked Catholics to pray the rosary each day in October for peace. The pope made his request at the end of his weekly general audience Sept. 24. “I invite everyone to pray the rosary every day during the coming month — for peace — personally, with your families and in your communities,” he said.
The pope also invited Vatican officials and employees to pray the rosary together every October evening at 7 p.m. in St. Peter’s Basilica. And he invited everyone to St. Peter’s Square Oct. 11 to pray the rosary together “during the vigil of the Jubilee of Marian Spirituality, also remembering the anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council,” which began Oct. 11, 1962.
FATHER JOSHUA J. WHITFIELD
Mark is the pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie. He has been editor of The Leaven since 1989.
Spousal abuse has no place in ‘for better or worse’
The sacrament of matrimony is an amazing gift. When lived joyfully, it has great power to proclaim the love of Christ to the world. But what about when marriage is a source of pain instead of joy?
FAMILY MATTERS
No marriage is perfect. We can all learn to love our spouses better, and often when we hit a rough patch, all we need is a few new tools to reconcile or communicate better. Many couples in our archdiocese have revitalized their marriages through retreats and skills courses. Even couples on the brink of divorce have found healing through counseling or programs like Retrouvaille that specialize in couples in crisis.
But there’s a separate category of marriages that we don’t talk about enough, and that is one where there is abuse. In these cases, the spouse experiencing violent behavior often tries valiantly to hold things together. It may be that they
were raised in an abusive environment, so it feels normal. Other times, they believe that things aren’t that bad, that they deserve it or that their spouse will change. Some have reason to fear for their own safety and that of their children if they were to speak up. For people of faith, however, there can be another reason: They think their faith requires it. So, I want to be really clear about two things. First, if you experience hitting, shoving, threats of violence, demeaning name-calling or if your spouse cuts you off from friends and family or financial resources,
these are not normal behaviors. They are serious and will not get better by going to marriage enrichment. Secondly, if these behaviors happen in your home, the church wants you to know that you are loved and you deserve to be safe. The U.S. bishops in their document “When I Call for Help” put it this way: “When violence occurs within a sacramental marriage, the abused spouse may question, ‘How do these violent acts relate to my promise to take my spouse for better or for worse?’ The person being assaulted needs to know that
acting to end the abuse does not violate the marriage promises.” If you are experiencing violence at home, I encourage you to reach out for help. SafeLine KS will direct you to local resources by calling (888) 3632287 or texting SAFE to 847411. If you are not, I invite you to learn more, since it is more common than we realize and the best course of action can be counterintuitive; go online to: archkck.org/ family/care-support/ domestic-violence. May the peace of Christ reign in all our homes.
Respect Life Month offers multiple opportunities for witness
As our culture gears up for fall weather, sports and Halloween traditions, what if the most intentional thing we do this month was to truly see every person — born and unborn, strong and weak, wanted and forgotten — as a gift?
Every October, the Catholic Church in the United States pauses to reflect on something both ancient and urgently relevant: the sacredness of human life.
LIFE MATTERS
This year’s theme is: “Life, Our Sign of Hope.” Daily headlines of violence and general disregard for human life remind us that our culture needs the hope that only Our Lord Jesus Christ can provide — that through his life, death and resurrection, our sins can be forgiven, death overcome and eternal life with our Creator granted. Respect Life
IMonth reminds us that every new life is a sign of hope, created in the image of God, and worthy of love, respect and protection.
Please join us for one or more opportunities this month to pray, learn and reflect more deeply on this message!
Respect Life Sunday Mass with Archbishop
Emeritus Joseph F. Naumann will take place on Oct. 5 at 9:30 a.m. at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Shawnee. Those who work or volunteer in any life-affirming capacity are invited to receive a blessing from the archbishop.
On Oct. 16, Holy Spirit Church in Overland Park will host our first Respect Life Month “Signs of Hope” speaker event. This is an opportunity to see human dignity in both beautiful and challenging life circumstances and be inspired by the church bringing hope to those in need.
The evening will begin with the celebration of Mass followed by a light meal. Then,
choose from a variety of presentations including:
• Why natural fertility matters
• Authentic support for couples with infertility
• How our Catholic schools are embracing children with special needs
• Seeing immigration through a pro-life lens
• How Catholic hospice care is different
On Oct. 19, the archdiocesan office of marriage and family life is hosting a Mass of the Innocents for miscarriage/stillbirth/ infant loss.
Finally, check out the full list of events happening throughout Respect Life Month.
Since the U.S. bishops confirm the protection of life from the moment of conception remains the preeminent moral issue of our time, there are several opportunities to pray for preborn children, expectant women and families at events across the archdiocese such as Aftermath, a traveling memorial and exhibit by Kansans for Life. Visit the website at: archkck.org/prolife-respect-life-month for details on all these events.
Through our baptism, we are called to be agents of hope for others, and that begins with seeing every person as the gift they are.
In anxious times, seek peace through Our Lord’s sacrifice
s there a heart o’erbound by sorrow? Is there a life weighed down by care?
Come to the cross, each burden bearing;
All your anxiety— leave it there.
All your anxiety, all your care, Bring to the mercy seat, leave it there, Never a burden he cannot bear, Never a friend like Jesus!
AS THE CHURCH PRAYS
In the Old Testament, the mercy seat was the golden lid of the Ark of the Covenant. As the high priest spilled blood upon it, God himself was mystically seated there, dispensing his mercy on the people of Israel.
For Christians, the mercy seat of the ark is fulfilled by a new mercy seat: the cross of Our Lord. It became our definitive mercy seat as his precious blood spilled upon it. Jesus sits upon the mercy seat of his cross, helping us
in all our needs. We are called to cast all our cares upon him, for he cares for us, in both our spiritual as well as temporal needs (1 Pt 5:7).
No other friend so keen to help you, No other friend so quick to hear, No other place to leave your burden, No other one to hear your prayer.
As Catholics, the mercy seat is revealed and made present to us each time holy Mass is offered. At Calvary, Jesus took upon himself not only our sins, but all our burdens, and for all time. Upon the altar, the mercy of Calvary is made sacramentally
present to us in the consecration of the bread and wine into the Lord’s body and blood. How keen he is indeed to help us!
Come then at once; delay no longer!
Heed his entreaty kind and sweet, You need not fear a disappointment; You shall find peace at the mercy seat. (Edward Henry Joy)
The Mass is our greatest joy as disciples and friends of Jesus. Through it, we are able to offer the Lord all our anxieties, burdens and cares. Jesus receives them — and receives us — and through his cross, places us before
the merciful gaze of the Father. He lovingly bids us to come to him in the liturgy, to place our very selves upon the altar with him, and through his sacrifice, offered to the Father, to receive that peace which alone comes from God. As we find ourselves living in most anxious times, let us allow this beautiful poetry to enrich our understanding of the power of Calvary, the power of Jesus on the cross and the power of his eucharistic sacrifice and its banquet of promise.
DEBRA NIESEN
Debra Niesen is the archdiocesan consultant for the pro-life office.
LIBBY DUPONT
Libby DuPont is a consultant for the archdiocesan office of marriage and family life.
MICHAEL PODREBARAC
Michael Podrebarac is the archdiocesan consultant for the office of liturgy and sacramental life.
Kids’ Kids’
CHRONICLE CHRONICLE
Jesus sends 72 men on a mission to evangelize
By Jennifer Ficcaglia Catholic Courier
esus did a lot of traveling so he could speak to as many people as possible about God.
One day, Jesus decided to send 72 of his followers ahead of him to the communities he planned to visit.
“The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest,” he said as he split the men into pairs.
Jesus warned his friends that he was sending them
Bible accent J I
“like lambs among wolves.” He also told them they could not carry money bags, sacks or sandals, and told them not to greet anyone along the way.
When they arrived in a town, they were to visit people in their homes.
“Into whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this household.’ If a peaceful person lives there, your peace will rest on him; but if not, it will return to you,” Jesus said.
Jesus told his friends to stay in one peaceful home only and not move around from house to house. They also were to eat and drink whatever their hosts offered, “for the laborer deserves payment.”
“Whatever town you enter and they welcome you, eat what is set before you, cure the sick in it and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God is at hand for you,’” Jesus continued.
He also told the 72 what to do if they were not welcomed.
“Whatever town you enter and they do not receive you, go out into the streets and say, ‘The dust of your town that clings to our feet, even that we shake off against you,’” Jesus said. “Yet know this: The kingdom of God is at hand.”
“Whoever listens to you listens to me. Whoever rejects you rejects me. And whoever rejects me rejects the one who sent me,” he told them.
When Jesus finished speaking, the 72 left. When they returned, they were excited, because even demons were subject to them because of Jesus’ name.
“Behold, I have given you the power ‘to tread upon serpents’ and scorpions and upon the full force of the enemy and nothing will harm you,” Jesus said. “Nevertheless, do not rejoice because the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice because your names are written in heaven.”
Q&A
1. How many men did Jesus send out to evangelize?
2. What were the men speaking excitedly about when they returned?
n Matthew 10, we read that there was another group of men that Jesus sent out to evangelize — the Twelve Apostles.
Jesus gave the apostles the power to drive out unclean spirits and cure diseases. He told them not to take anything with them on their journeys, such as second tunics and walking sticks.
He also warned his friends that he was sending them like sheep in the midst of wolves. That’s why he suggested that they “be shrewd as serpents and simple as doves.”
“But beware of people,” Jesus said, “for they will hand you over to courts and scourge you in their synagogues, and you will be led before governors and kings for my sake as a witness before them and the pagans.”
Some of what Jesus told the apostles sounds similar to what he told his 72 followers when he sent them out to bring God’s word to the people. However, he gave the apostles some additional instructions.
“Do not go into pagan territory or enter a Samaritan town,” Jesus told the Twelve. “Go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”
SWhile
from his marriage vows.
was ordained a priest in 1420.
He became a great preacher and worked hard to make his order better. He also led part of
t. John of Capistrano was born in Italy in 1386. He met his wife, who was from a prominent family, while studying law in Perugia. He later became the city’s governor in 1412.
he was imprisoned during a civil war, John had a vision of St. Francis. He had a spiritual conversion and decided he wanted to join the Friars Minor, which he did in 1416 after he was dispensed
He
a Christian army to victory over the Turks, who had laid siege to Belgrade in 1456. John died not long after the battle was over, and we honor him on Oct. 23.
St. John of Capistrano