THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 48, NO. 8 | OCTOBER 16, 2026
LEAVEN PHOTO BY AMY WILKEN
From left, Karen Ulanski-Swank and Theresa Dickinson help Dorene Hughes study for her GED. Ulanski-Swank, a parishioner at Holy Trinity Parish in Paola, founded Second Chances Begin Here Inc., a nonprofit helping teens and adults earn their GED and prepare for careers. Dickinson is an educator with Second Chances and has worked with Ulanski-Swank in alternative and adult education for 20 years.
Nonprofit founder fosters dreams with
By Eileen Scott Special to The Leaven
SECOND CHANCES
was cut in 2025 due to lack of funding, Ulanski-Swank knew she had to do something. She has always been a problem solver — a trait she attributes to her servant-leader mother who served on the parish council and the school board. After some thought, she told Derek, “I’m going to start a nonprofit.” And at 62 years old, she did.
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AOLA — “I’ll never give up on you.” That’s the promise Karen Ulanski-Swank, a member of Holy Trinity Parish in Paola, made to her students and her community as she advocates for new beginnings through education. The director of alternative and virtual education at Paola USD 368 has a profound belief in the potential of the human person, especially when they’ve experienced hard times. “Everyone deserves a second chance,” she said, “and sometimes a third, fourth or fifth one.” That’s why she founded Second Chances Begin Here Inc., a nonprofit helping teens and adults earn their GED and prepare for careers.
An early passion As a young girl growing up in rural Nebraska, Ulanski-Swank knew she wanted to be a teacher. The seventh of nine children, she spent the summer teaching her two younger siblings in the basement of their farmhouse using the discarded books and manuals from the Catholic school she attended. More than 30 years later, she is still teaching and fostering a spirit of
Brightening futures
LEAVEN PHOTO BY AMY WILKEN
There are 32 students enrolled in the Second Chances Begin Here program. Ulanski-Swank and two Second Chances educators meet individually with students at the Paola Free Library. achievement and possibility. While Ulanski-Swank is an advocate for second chances, she doesn’t spend much time second-guessing. Just as she knew she was meant to teach, she also knew when it was time to take a pause from it. Early in her career, she experienced an ethical conflict with the school where she taught. Not willing to compromise her beliefs, she took a sales position outside of education to fully discern what being an educator meant for her.
Every fall when school supplies were on display, she was reminded of her first love. So, it’s not surprising that the classroom called her home and she gave teaching a second chance. She also gave love a second chance. When her first husband passed from lung cancer, Ulanski-Swank was devastated. Yet, after some time, she learned to open herself to love again and married her second husband, Derek. And, when one of the multi-county adult education programs she led
In July 2025, with seed money from generous donors and some additional grant money, Second Chances was formed. The program provides GED classes, Integrated Educational Training and workshops with area employers. Donor generosity sustained the program through its first year, but ongoing donations and support are needed for sustainability and growth. There are currently 32 students enrolled in the program. Ulanski-Swank and two Second Chances educators meet individually with students at the Paola Free Library. A young woman named Mariah is one of those students. “When I first came in, they helped me with a lot — with math and everything,” she said. “Once I finish, I want >> See “PARISHIONER” on page 7
2 LOCAL NEWS
OCTOBER 16, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
ARCHBISHOP MCKNIGHT Oct. 16 Mass and annual meeting of the members — Santa Marta Senior Living, Olathe Oct. 17 Archdiocesan Pastoral Council meeting — Savior Pastoral Center, Kansas City, Kansas Bishop Miege High School Foundation Mass and dinner — Roeland Park Oct. 18 150th anniversary Mass and lunch — Holy Name of Jesus Church, Kansas City, Kansas Gathering and jubilarian recognition of religious institutes and societies of apostolic life with solemn vespers and dinner — St. Benedict’s Abbey, Atchison Oct. 19 Visit to St. Peter Claver Jesuit Community, Kansas City, Missouri Oct. 20 Confirmation Mass — Sacred Heart Church, Tonganoxie LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE
Sandy Vielhauer, safe environment administrator for the office for prevention and care, talks with participants at a past Appreciation Day for safe environment coordinators and Virtus facilitators. This year’s Appreciation Day will take place on Nov. 5 at St. Ann Church in Prairie Village.
OPC to host Appreciation Day Nov. 5 By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
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RAIRIE VILLAGE — Safe environment coordinators (SECs) and Virtus facilitators across the archdiocese are invited to an Appreciation Day on Nov. 5 at St. Ann Church here, hosted by the office for prevention and care (OPC). “Our goal is to show our appreciation for the oftentimes unseen, difficult and critical work in this ministry,” said Sandy Vielhauer, safe environment administrator for the OPC. “The Appreciation Day is intended to provide a renewal for them and helps them develop a network of support for each other,” she added. The archdiocese has around 260 SECs and 70 Virtus facilitators, and this will be the fourth year the OPC has hosted an Appreciation Day for them. It will take place from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with Archbishop Shawn McKnight attending part of the day. The Appreciation Day will fea-
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ture guest speaker Rachel Willoughby Greene, MS, LPC, LCPC, a trauma-informed counselor who works with military members, veterans, first responders and their families. Nubia Palacios Rivas, safe environment administrator-Hispanic community for the OPC, said Greene will provide insight on the advocacy and care side of the ministry. “Rachel will be presenting on trauma-informed care, secondary and vicarious trauma, and post-traumatic growth,” said Rivas. “Her presentation will provide tools our ambassadors can utilize as they continue at the frontline of our prevention efforts. “Our goal is for our ambassadors to leave empowered, connected and aware of their contributions and the impact they have on providing safe environments.” The SECs and Virtus facilitators were surveyed in advance to guide this year’s agenda. Kathleen Chastain, associate director of the OPC, said respondents expressed an interest in learning more about topics related to the
OPC ministry and understanding how their roles relate to the overall safe environment mission. “Respondents also indicated a desire to ‘connect’ with the chancery — to better understand what has changed and what to expect in the coming year,” said Chastain. “One exciting way we plan to do this is by incorporating synodal listening — first by providing an interactive opportunity with Archbishop McKnight,” she said, “and later in the day through a synodal listening session facilitated by the OPC team.” Jenifer Valenti, OPC director, is grateful for the archbishop’s support. “Archbishop McKnight’s presence and participation underscores the critical and difficult responsibility our ambassadors bear in abuse prevention,” said Valenti. “His participation aims to provide a direct, supportive space for ambassadors’ insights to shape the broader institutional response,” she said. To learn more about the OPC, visit: archkck.org/preven tion-and-care/office.
Sister Sharon Murray, OSB, dies Sept. 28
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TCHISON — Sister Sharon Murray, OSB, 94, a Benedictine Sister of Mount St. Scholastica here, died Sept. 28 at the monastery. Sister Sharon was born in Chicago on June 24, 1932, the daughter of Leo and Melba Salkeld Murray. After completing elementary school, she was taught by the Benedictine Sisters of Chicago at their St. Scholastica Academy. This led her to Mount St. Scholastica College, from which she entered the monastery in 1954. With a bachelor’s degree in social studies and a master’s degree
in history, she spent three decades as a teacher in elementary and high schools. In addition to serving in Iowa, Kansas and Missouri, she was part of the community’s foundation in Colorado, teaching there in the 1960s. Later, she was an assistant professor of history at Benedictine College in Atchison. After retirement from the classroom, she was the secretary and receptionist for two years at the Mount Conference Center and the following 15 years at the Atchison All Faith Counseling Center.
Oct. 21 Deans’ meeting and dinner — residence of the archbishop Oct. 24 Thanksgiving Mass for 25th anniversary of the Community the Poor of Jesus Christ — Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle, Kansas City, Kansas Oct. 25 Confirmation Mass for St. Dominic, Holton; St. Francis Xavier, Mayetta; St. Theresa, Perry; and St. Aloysius, Meridan — St. Dominic Church, Holton Confirmation Mass for Corpus Christi, Mooney Creek; Immaculate Conception, Valley Falls; St. Joseph, Nortonville; St. Benedict, Bendena; St. Charles, Troy; and St. Joseph, Wathena — St. Benedict’s Abbey, Atchison Oct. 27 Annual Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas joint board meeting, vespers and reception — Savior Pastoral Center Oct. 28 Archdiocesan Call to Share Crosier Society vespers and reception — Church of the Ascension, Overland Park Oct. 29 Catholic Cemetery board of trustees meeting — chancery Two Lines Pregnancy Center Gala — Overland Park Convention Center Oct. 31 Confirmation Mass — St. Lawrence Center, Lawrence Nov. 1 Mass for African Catholic Community of Kansas — Prince of Peace Church, Olathe Archdiocesan Call to Share Crosier Society vespers and reception — Corpus Christi Church, Lawrence Nov. 3 Purgatorial Society Mass and lunch — Corpus Christi Church
ARCHBISHOP EMERITUS NAUMANN Oct. 17 150th anniversary of Holy Name Parish — Kansas City, Kansas Oct. 18 Atchison Teams of Our Lady Oct. 19 Talk with students — John Paul II School, Overland Park Oct. 20 Vitae KC dinner — Fiorella’s Event Space, Overland Park Oct. 24 Cor Christi - Evening of Hope — Mater Dei Event Center, Topeka Oct. 25 Mass — St. John Paul II Academy, Olathe Oct. 29 Kenrick-Glennon formation committee — St. Louis Kenrick-Glennon board meeting — St. Louis
LOCAL NEWS 3
OCTOBER 16, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
FOREVER FAITHFUL SHEPHERDS Retired priests continue to serve in their own way By Jeanne Gorman
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Father Jim Shaughnessy, who was raised on his family farm north of Axtell, spends much of this time helping his brother farm the land they grew up on. He also stays active as a priest, serving parishes in the Nemaha-Marshall Deanery when called upon.
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ANSAS CITY, Kan. — That old adage “you can never go home again” certainly does not apply to Father Jim Shaughnessy, who was raised on the family farm north of Axtell. After serving as a priest of the archdiocese for 50 years, he retired at age 76 to his hometown. Father Shaughnessy now spends some of his time helping his brother farm the land they grew up on. Like many of his fellow retired priests, he continues to stay active in ministry, serving the people of northeast Kansas wherever he’s needed.
By the book “You are a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek,” reads Hebrews 5:6 and Psalm 110:4. Priests are called to their vocation permanently, but they are generally eligible to retire when they turn 70. Once he retires, a priest can continue his priestly ministry, including celebrating Mass, officiating weddings and funerals and offering the sacrament of confession. He can also respond to re-
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Father Mike Stubbs has settled down in Lawrence. He was a Scripture columnist for The Leaven for 20 years and still enjoys writing. He is currently working on a series of short stories that he hopes to turn into a novel. quests for priestly assistance within the archdiocese but is free to decline the requests. As is true with active priests, retired priests may serve outside the archdiocese only with permission from the bishop of the diocese where they wish to serve. If Father Shaughnessy, Father Mike Stubbs and Father Bill Porter are any example,
their priestly calling still plays a significant role in their lives.
Father Mike Stubbs Father Stubbs grew up in Bonner Springs and attended the University of Kansas before his seminary studies.
He retired about six years ago after serving most recently as pastor of Church of the Holy Cross in Overland Park, preceded by a stint at St. Francis de Sales Parish in Lansing. In addition to being a pastor, Father Stubbs wrote a Scripture column for The Leaven for 20 years. So, perhaps it’s not surprising that he continues to active-
Publisher Most Rev. Shawn McKnight
Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799) Published biweekly January through December. Address communications to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Phone: (913) 721-1570; or email Candi Scanlon at cscanlon@archkck.org. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. For change of address, visit www.theleaven.org/subscribe. Subscriptions $27/year. Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.
Interim Managing Editor Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org
ly pursue his love of writing in Lawrence, where he moved upon retirement. He joined a group of Lawrence authors and has had one short story published in a literary journal. He’s currently working on a series of short stories featuring a mysterious Catholic nun named Sister Margaret of the Sisters of Infinite Compassion and a Baptist detective. Each of the seven stories he’s written so far has some Catholic connection. Father Stubbs hopes to turn the stories into a novel that is “highly fictionalized,” he emphasized. After retirement, he spent a total of six weeks in Lourdes, France, hearing confessions. Because he’s planning a pilgrimage to Egypt, he took a course in Arabic at the Lawrence Public Library. He was able to practice some of the language when he was approached at dinner by a visitor during the World Cup, who thanked him for being so welcoming to the Algerians who stayed in Lawrence during the tournament. Father Stubbs definitely “doesn’t vegetate at home,” as he puts it. In addition to his other interests, he helps out at parishes in Lawrence, Eudora, >> See “PRIESTS” on page 10
Editor-in-Chief Marissa Easter measter@archkck.org
Senior Reporter/Social Media Editor Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
Editorial Assistant Olivia Martin-Davies olivia.martin@theleaven.org
4 LOCAL NEWS
OCTOBER 16, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE
Members of St. Paul Parish in Olathe participate in a listening session earlier this year. More than 1,000 people from across the archdiocese took part in listening sessions. At least three sessions were held in each deanery.
Renewal from the Heartland
A PASTORAL LETTER ON SYNODALITY IN THE ARCHDIOCESE OF KANSAS CITY IN KANSAS - Part 2 of 7 ARCHBISHOP SHAWN MCKNIGHT, S.TH.D. n The following is taken from Archbishop Shawn McKnight’s Pastoral Letter “Renewal from the Heartland,” which explains the ongoing synodal process the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is currently undertaking to determine the archdiocese’s future path. This series will be presented in seven parts. To read the entire pastoral letter, go to: https://archkck.org/renewal-heartland/.
LISTENING WITH THE HEART
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or those of us who participated in the Listening with the Heart synodal listening sessions in April, our hearts truly were burning within us. Those sessions were moments of prayer, to listen to the Holy Spirit speaking both in our own hearts and through those who gathered with us. Some of us came with sorrow and fear in our hearts, and all of us are grappling with what Jesus’ death and Resurrection mean in our lives today, with so much turmoil and division, death, and destruction around us. There were at least three sessions held in each deanery, and others were held in communities who might have otherwise been shut out, specifically our deaf sisters and brothers and those incarcerated in our prisons. In addition, 7,252 responded to our invitation to participate in an online survey which was designed from the comments made at the listening sessions. We conducted this survey using the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate (CARA), an internationally known research center that uses modern scientific methods to serve the church, to help focus our future pasto-
LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE
Father Glenn Snow, O.Carm., pastor of Immaculate Conception-St. Joseph Parish in Leavenworth, records his thoughts at a listening session in the Leavenworth Deanery. ral planning. The themes that have emerged from these two efforts to listen with the heart of Christ have informed my discernment, as the chief pastor of the archdiocese, to hold up a common vision for the people living in all 21 counties. This vision will be pondered in each deanery according to the local realities there — the resources available, the cultures of the communities, the pastoral challenges, and the capacity among those who gather as leaders in the deanery. Each deanery (and because of the size of the Johnson County deanery, there will be two discernment groups in it) will discern a common pastoral plan for the parishes in the deanery. Each parish will then discern how
to implement their deanery pastoral plan according to the particularities of the local parish’s mission, people, and resources. Thus, the local parish realities will inform and be informed by its neighboring parishes and other local communities. We must avoid any parochialism that would negate our goal of building a stronger communion among the parishes and in the local church of the archdiocese, thereby strengthening the participation of the people in the life and mission of the Church. The steps of our pastoral planning are taking place in this manner: 1. LISTEN – First, we listened. We identified signs of renewal and recognized God’s presence among us in the synodal listening sessions and online survey. 2. VISION – In collaboration with the universal and local church leadership, I am articulating in this pastoral letter a vision from our common experiences and tensions, thereby reading the signs of the times in the context of God’s living Word. 3. ORIENT – We will discern emerging paths forward and form common orientations, using the structure of the deaneries. This will require additional listening as we discern those unique pastoral needs in each deanery while focusing on the same archdiocesan-wide vision. 4. PARISH LIFE – As missionary disciples, together we will implement the aspects of the deanery plan that align with the reality of the parish, prioritizing the common deanery plan so that we are accompanying other parishes in actualizing the archdiocesan vision.
GOD’S PRESENCE IN THE HEARTLAND What signs of renewal and God’s presence can we identify from the Listening with the Heart synodal listening sessions and survey? Across all eight deaneries, parishioners expressed a deep love for the Catholic Church, a profound reliance on the sacraments, and immense gratitude for parish communities, Catholic education, and family faith traditions. God is, indeed, present here in the heartland. This is the Good News of the presence of Christ and the activity of the Holy Spirit worth celebrating! Across urban, suburban, and rural communities, participants identified a strong desire for the Church members to move from passive participation to active discipleship. The collective voice of the archdiocese calls for a flourishing Church that is deeply rooted in Eucharistic spirituality, faithful to Catholic doctrine, and openly outward-facing — listening deeply, forming adults and youth intentionally, welcoming the wounded and searching, and serving those on the margins with real, concrete mercy. These are signs of and opportunities for renewal. By listening with our hearts, we hear people seeking to: • Belong in a community • Deepen their relationship with God • Be sent on mission Like the disciples on the road from Emmaus, our hearts should be on fire with the desire to testify to what is happening and what can happen in our villages, towns, and cities.
LOCAL NEWS 5
OCTOBER 16, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
From left, Fathers Viet Nguyen, Gerard Alba, Jomon Palatty and Du Dinh Tran enjoy some time together during a break at the convocation.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Patrick Schmadeke and Jane Oberlies from the University of Notre Dame offer a presentation on artificial intelligence to the priests of the archdiocese.
PRIESTS CONVOCATION
Presbyterate gathers for a week of education and brotherhood
By Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org
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T. LOUIS — If you noticed that your parish priest was missing in action the week of Sept. 28, you weren’t alone. Nearly the entire presbyterate of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas gathered at the Augustine Institute in St. Louis for their annual convocation. The first days of the convocation covered the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) and how it differs from the old Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). Liturgical Training Publications out of Chicago presented to the priests, explaining the process and how it could differentiate from person to person. “Sometimes the candidates for full communion come to us with a wealth of background and experience in their relationship with the Lord Jesus and a foundation in the Word of God, so their formation track can look a lot different from others,” said Father Michael Hawken, vicar general and moderator of the curia for the archdiocese. “Every person needs to be assessed to see where they’re at in the process,” he continued, “and in this new order, you can bring them into the church at any time throughout the year.” Father Hawken hoped the convocation would help each parish get on the same page with implementing OCIA. “We are going to have a concerted effort to do that in the way that the church is asking us to do it,” he said.
Down to business The final day of the convocation was a “business day,” which included an introduction of new personnel in key positions in the archdiocese as well as informative presentations. Dr. Erin Vader, the new superintendent of archdiocesan schools; Andrew Bartell, the new archdiocesan chancellor, chief operating officer and promoter of justice; and Paul Malley, the new executive director of the Kansas Catholic Conference, were each given time to introduce themselves. Patrick Schmadeke and Jane Oberlies from the University of Notre Dame presented on artificial intelligence, exploring how AI has infiltrated all aspects of life.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Archbishop Shawn McKnight celebrates Mass with the priests of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas at the Augustine Institute in St. Louis during their annual convocation. When Schmadeke was the director of evangelization for the Diocese of Davenport, Iowa, he saw aspects of AI that disturbed him. “It was fascinating to see candidates and catechumans turn to their phones to look for answers of the faith — seeking truth in the machine — instead of turning to the faith community, to this presence of spirit in Jesus among us for answers to questions of faith,” he said. Schmadeke and Oberlies said studies have shown that 54% of students between the ages of 13 to 17 use AI to help with schoolwork, and that 10% use it all or most of the time. They said the students fear falling behind without the use of AI. The pair also touched on the environmental impact of AI in regard to its water consumption, and they encouraged priests to preach on AI.
The lineup Vince Anch, executive director of the
Catholic Education Foundation (CEF) talked to the priests about the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit program that will begin in January 2027. He emphasized that all 42 archdiocesan schools could benefit from the program. Chris Arth, archdiocesan general counsel, spoke on legal issues parishes may face and how his office can help navigate those issues. Carla Mills, archdiocesan chief financial officer, updated the priests on many of the archdiocesan policies under review. She also discussed the archdiocese’s shared business services, which can provide qualified accountants and human resources professionals to help with parish business. Mills said having parishes on a common accounting system gives credibility to financial management and allows pastors to move from parish to parish and immediately understand its financial situation. Dan Daly, executive director of the Center for Theology and Ethics in Catholic Health and associate professor
of moral theology at Boston College, spoke about vaccination requirements in Catholic schools. Kevin Cronister, the archdiocesan director of ministerial standards, explained the role of his office and how it ensures that all allegations of misconduct are received, assessed and investigated in compliance with civil and ecclesiastical law. Jenifer Valenti, director of the office for prevention and care, highlighted the changing role of her office and its focus on abuse prevention, compliance and the care of people who have been harmed by an agent of the church. For Father Hawken, one of the benefits of the convocation was having the majority of priests gathered together in one place. “I hope that our days together were a time when they appreciated our fraternity with one another — to not just study together, but to pray, socialize and have a good time together during the week,” he said.
6 LOCAL NEWS
OCTOBER 16, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
Investigation concludes; Father Flood to return to ministry
O PHOTO COURTESY OF SANTA MARTA
From left, Sister Anthony, the Mother Superior of the Sisters of St. Anne, Sister Rose and Sister Anne gather at Santa Marta in Olathe, where several Sisters of the congregation serve. The Mother Superior recently visited from India.
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Two communities answer one calling
LATHE — Santa Marta here believes in giving the best faith-centered care possible. Hospitality and service shape every decision it makes, with pastoral care and spiritual support available around the clock. But they don’t do this work alone. Santa Marta seeks out partnerships with people and organizations who share the same devotion to service. Sister Sobha and her sisterhood, the Sisters of St. Anne in India, are some of those partners. Recently, Santa Marta welcomed the Mother Superior of St. Anne’s congregation, Sister Anthony. This marked her third visit to Santa Marta since the community first opened its doors in 2005. For Sister Anthony, the decision to send Sister Sobha to Santa Marta wasn’t difficult. “At St. Anne, our mission is giving help to the helpless,” Sister Anthony said. In Santa Marta, she saw a community guided by the same belief that faith is lived through compassion, service and care for one another. Sister Sobha has become woven into our Santa Marta family, a steady and beloved presence whose devotion mirrors the values she carried with her from St. Anne.
“Santa Marta is my home now,” Sister Sobha said. For Sister Anthony, her faith intensified over the years through loss. “My father passed away when I was 10 years old. He passed away in the hands of a nun,” Sister Anthony said. “I thought after she passed, that, maybe, I had to take her place in the congregation.” A childhood moment of grief became a lifelong calling that would eventually place her at the head of an entire congregation. Today, as Mother Superior, Sister Anthony oversees an order that cares for just under 800 students, some of whom she teaches herself. She sends Sisters out to answer God’s mission in all corners of the globe, with Santa Marta holding a place of its own among them. Faith has never been an abstract idea for Santa Marta or St. Anne’s congregation. It’s a promise they’ve carried through decades, across oceans, and through life’s hardest moments. Sister Sobha’s presence at Santa Marta and Sister Anthony’s visit this August are proof that this promise is still being kept — the same promise of love, care and compassion that Santa Marta was built on 20 years ago.
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MAHA — The Archdiocese of Omaha has concluded its preliminary investigation into allegations of misconduct involving a minor by Father Eric Flood of the Priestly Fraternity of Saint Peter (F.S.S.P.). The alleged behavior occurred more than 20 years ago while he was serving in the Archdiocese of Omaha. The preliminary investigation by the archdiocese and civil authorities did not uncover evidence sufficient to substantiate the allegation or establish wrongdoing. Father Flood was serving as chaplain of St. John Vianney in Maple Hill when the allegation was reported. In July 2026, the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas was notified by the Priestly Fraternity of Saint Peter of the allegation against Father Flood. The Archdiocese of Omaha immediately reported the allegation to law enforcement and launched a preliminary investigation. In accordance with church law, Father Flood was temporarily withdrawn from the public exercise of priestly ministry. After carefully considering the investigation’s findings and consulting
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Sister Rita Orleans, SCL, dies
EAVENWORTH — Sister Rita Orleans, 100, a Sister of Charity of Leavenworth for nearly 83 years, died Aug. 22. Born Rita Lucille on Sept. 29, 1925, in Fort Collins, Colorado, she was one of seven children of Louis P. and Laurence Orleans. Rita attended Fort Collins (Colorado) High School, graduating in 1943. She entered the Sisters of Charity novitiate on Sept. 1, 1943, at age 17. She received her habit and the religious name Sister Mary Louis on March 5, 1944, and made her first vows on June 20, 1945. She later returned to her baptismal name. She began her healthcare ministry at Providence Hospital in Kansas City, Kansas, where she trained as a nurse and became a registered nurse in 1948. For more than six decades, Sister Rita devoted her life to nursing and healthcare, ministering in hospitals in Kansas, New Mexico, Colorado, Montana and Canada. Her roles included nursing, surgery, operating room man-
ACROSS 1 University (abbr.) 5 Pungent 10 Mix 14 Curved roof 15 By the __ of God 16 KJV pronoun 17 Set down 18 Radio word 19 Food 20 __ A Small World... 21 Young woman’s title 22 Book before Jeremiah 24 Church officials 26 First man 27 Rascal 28 Exploiter 29 Freudian term 32 Shorten (abbr.) 35 Pituitary hormone 37 Brother of Moses 39 Sticky 41 Shoshonean 42 Son of Abraham 43 Giant in “Princess Bride” 44 Highest quality 46 Island 47 Beam 48 Den 50 Help
the archdiocesan independent review board and other canonical, legal, and ministerial experts, Archbishop Shawn McKnight of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas has lifted the imposed precautionary measures, and Father Flood resumed as chaplain of St. John Vianney on Oct. 12. The archbishop is grateful to Father Flood for his full cooperation throughout the investigation and for complying with the requirements established during that time for the good of the church. We recognize that this has been a difficult process for all involved. The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas takes all allegations of abuse and misconduct by church personnel very seriously and works to respond to survivors’ needs with urgency, respect, and compassion. We encourage anyone with knowledge about any misconduct by a church volunteer, employee, religious or clergy member — regardless of when the abuse may have occurred — to contact civil authorities first, and then call or text the archdiocese’s confidential report line at (913) 276-8703 or online at: www.archk ck.org/reportabuse.
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Overindulge Harmful thing (sneeze causer) The Messiah Bovine Anger Part of a day Furious Afloat Son of Adam and Eve Grain storage towers Stare Bars Slightly wet Pen fillers
DOWN 1 Improvise a speech 2 Raccoon-like animal 3 Awry 4 Lair 5 One of the Herods 6 Symbol of suffering 7 Torn up fabric 8 Winter hazard 9 Twit 10 Boiling water vapor 11 Siamese 12 Small particle 13 Haste 21 Dad’s mate
agement, education, administration, materials management and technology. A lifelong learner, Sister Rita continued her education alongside her ministry. She earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing education from Saint Mary College in Leavenworth in 1968 and a master’s degree in nursing from Boston University in 1973. She also studied operating room management and technology at St. Michael Hospital in Toronto, Canada. As health care became increasingly dependent on technology, Sister Rita adapted with it. From 2001 to 2008, while in her late 70s and early 80s, she took on a new ministry as a database administrator at Saint Vincent Hospital. Embracing an entirely different responsibility so late in her career reflected a quality that marked her life: Sister Rita was willing to learn what was needed to serve where she was needed. In 2008, Sister Rita returned to Leavenworth, where she lived at the motherhouse and continued in volunteer ministry.
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Wife of Abraham, originally Employer Sackcloth and __ Express Epochs Destination __ upon a time Seaweed substance __ fide This is my __ given for you Length of forearm Side note Hollers Least short Absorption Infirm Lasses Cars Got out of bed Biblical word for Gentile Many months Blacken Tramp Feared Indonesian island River (Spanish) Boxer Muhammad Solution on page 16
LOCAL NEWS 7
OCTOBER 16, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
Baptism announcements are coming to The Leaven
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he Leaven will run baptism announcements in future issues. Please use the format below to submit announcements. Baptisms will run on a space-available basis. Please include a high resolution photo of the child that was baptized. Email announcements to: todd.hab iger@theleaven.org. [Child’s full name], child of [parent(s) names] members of [parish name, parish city], was baptized on [date of baptism] at [name of church and church city]. The sacrament was conferred by [priest or deacon’s name]. Godparents were [names of godparents].
Parishioner offers people a brighter future through education >> Continued from page 1
to get a job so I can provide for my future.” Mariah plans to obtain her GED in a few weeks and continue her education so she can become a veterinarian. But it’s not just the students who benefit from second chances and Ulanski-Swank’s dedication. Theresa Dickinson is an educator with Second Chances and has worked with Ulanski-Swank in alternative and adult education for 20 years. When she first started working at the Osawatomie alternative school, Dickinson didn’t have her associate degree and didn’t believe she was qualified for the job. She tried quitting more than once, but Ulanski-Swank wouldn’t hear of it. Instead, she encouraged Dickinson to finish the credits she needed for her associate degree in science and assured her that she was more than capable. Why is Ulanski-Swank so passionate about second chances? “It’s just who I am,” she said. “I believe God knows my strengths. God knows what I’m capable of doing. And I believe he walked with me every step of the way.”
Barb (LaFayette) and Steve Menke, members of Corpus Christi Parish, L a w rence, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Oct. 23. The couple was married on Oct. 23, 1976 at St. Anthony Church, Davenport, Iowa, witnessed by Father Jim Grubb. Their children are: Sarah LaBarge, David Menke and Dan Menke (deceased). They also have four grandchildren and two great-granddaughters. Jennie and Sal Avitia, members of St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Oct. 2 with f a m i l y. The couple was married on Oct. 2, 1976, at Redemptorist Church, Kansas City, Missouri. Their children are: Angela Hernandez, Sal Avitia III, Melissa Garcia, and Gina Avitia. They also have four grandchildren. Norman and Sophie Stallbaumer, members of Mater D e i Parish To p ek a , celebrated their 6 5 t h we d d i n g anniversary on Oct. 14. The couple was married on Oct. 14, 1961, at St Benedict Church Kansas City, Kansas. Their children are: Charlene Finney, Vincent Stallbaumer and Ray Stallbaumer. They also have five grandchildren, four step-grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
Catherine and Gregory Pamperin, members of Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa, will celebrate t h e i r 50th wedding anniversary with a trip to Paris, France. The couple was married on Oct. 16, 1976, at Combs Chapel of the Country Club Christian Church, Kansas City, Missouri. Their children are: Christine Pamperin, Elizabeth Pamperin, Lisa Pamperin and David Pamperin. They also have five grandchildren. Jim
and
Connie (Penning) Wietharn, members of St. Benedict Parish, Atchison, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Oct. 23. The couple was married on Oct. 23, 1976, at St. Benedict, witnessed by Father Wilfred Fangman. Their children are: Ryan Wietharn, Kimberling City, Missouri; Courtney Schafersman, Shawnee; and Lindsey Wietharn, Lawrence. They also have three grandchildren. Daryl and Shirley Mitchell, members of St. Stanislaus Parish, Rossville, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on Oct. 22. The couple was married on Oct. 22, 1966, at Sacred Heart Church, Delia. They will celebrate with family at a later date. Their children are: Ronda, Candy, Jody, Monte and Randi. They also have 10 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Guadalupe Home Plus
Guadalupe Home Plus is a new 6-bed senior care home in St. Mary’s, KS, now accepting residents! We offer personalized care, home-cooked meals, and a family atmosphere rooted in Catholic values. Under Our Lady’s mantle, we are all family. Visit guadalupehomeplus.com to learn more, call or stop by for a visit—we’d love to meet you!
Special Mass to observe All Souls Day and Día de los Muertos By Thesrese Horvat Special to The Leaven
K
ANSAS CITY, Kan. — People of all cultures and ethnicities are invited to attend a special Mass in observance of All Souls Day and Día de los Muertos (the Day of the Dead) on Nov. 2 at 10 a.m. in the mausoleum chapel at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, located at 38th and State Ave. here. Father Peter Jaramillo, S.S.A., pastor of St. Mary-St. Anthony Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, will celebrate the Mass. Catholic Cemeteries of Northeast Kansas encourages those attending to bring photographs of their deceased loved ones, artificial flowers and other items customary to the Día de los Muertos observance (excluding food and beverages) to place on the display table. The traditional All Souls Day observance offers Catholics an opportunity to pray for family members, friends and others who are deceased and for those who may be in purgatory, awaiting transition to eternal life in heaven. As part of Día de los Muertos, families gather at the gravesites of loved ones for a reunion of sorts. “Ofrendas” (offerings) on home altars remember and rejoice over the deceased with photographs, candles, their favorite foods and marigold flowers. Skulls and skeletons are prominent symbols of the Day of the Dead to remind that life is short. For more information about the Nov. 2 All Souls Day/Día de los Muertos observance at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, call or email Catholic Cemeteries at (913) 371-4040 or: informa tion@cathcemks.org.
PUTTING LOVE INTO ACTION
Parishes embrace the call to support moms and babies By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
K
ANSAS CITY, Kan. — When a woman facing an unplanned pregnancy chooses life for her baby, that’s when pro-life ministry truly begins, said Marilyn Baker. “When someone does choose life, you really do have to step up to the plate to help them,” she said. “It’s one thing to say, ‘Hey, you should have this child.’ “But are you going to give her a ride to her doctor’s appointments every month if she can’t drive? Are you willing to hold her hand while she gives birth to a child, too? “How far are you willing to go?” Baker, a parishioner at Our Lady & St. Rose Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, has mentored pregnant women through Gabriel Project for the past three years. The project pairs a trained volunteer — called an “angel” — with a pregnant woman so she can receive emotional and spiritual support and get connected with resources. It’s just one of the pro-life ministries offered at parishes around the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.
The heart of the mission
T
he continuation and expansion of pro-life ministries at the parish level is one way the archdiocese is working to fulfill Archbishop Shawn McKnight’s vision for parishes to be “centers of charity and sanctuaries of mercy,” said Debra Niesen. Niesen was previously the archdiocesan consultant for the pro-life office. Now, as director of Parish Evangelization Services, she’s supporting parishes in their efforts to serve parishioners and their wider communities. “We are here to accompany parishes to get these [ministries] started,” she said, “and we will walk with them and support them so that they’re not overwhelmed and connect them to other parishes who are doing this. “That’s really our mission right now is to assist in this way.” To learn more about the archdiocese’s pro-life efforts, visit: archkck.org/prolife/home or email Ann Marie Alvey, Parish Evangelization Specialist, at: di rector@gabrielprojectkc.com.
Building a culture of life Debra Niesen hopes women facing an unexpected or challenging pregnancy would feel comfortable asking their local Catholic church for help. “In reality for some women, especially if they’re single or pregnant, many of them think, ‘The last place I would turn would be my church out of fear of being judged or shamed,’” she said. Walking with Moms in Need is there to counter that, said Niesen, the director of Parish Evangelization Services (PES) for the archdiocese. Launched in 2020 by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) under the leadership of Archbishop Emeritus Joseph F. Naumann, then-chair of the USCCB Committee on Pro-Life Activities, Walking with Moms is offered at multiple archdiocesan parishes. The initiative operates differently at each one depending on its abilities, resources and community needs. It’s “really trying to create a culture in our parishes that women feel like if they’re overwhelmed, if they need support, if they’re scared for whatever reason, they know that the Catholic Church — their parish — is a place that they can turn to for help,” said Niesen. “And they will receive real, tangible support,” she added, “as well as authentic friendship and compassion.”
Uplifting human dignity “Our goal is that every parishioner in every parish should know how to tell a pregnant woman where to go to get help,” said Cindy Durbin, a parishioner at Sacred Heart Parish in Emporia. Durbin has been involved in the parish’s Walking with Moms pro-
Annita, left, gets a ride from her “angel” Marilyn Baker to Kansas City Kansas Community College Kansas City, Kansas, and a volunteer with Gabriel Project, was connected with Annita through Two
Marilyn Baker holds 10-month-old baby Anaishe while chatting with his mom Annita between h Annita through Gabriel Project but has continued offering friendship and support so she and her gram since the Value Them Both amendment failed to pass in Kansas in 2022. Three nearby parishes — St. Catherine in Emporia, St. Mary in Hartford and St. Joseph in Olpe — and the Didde Catholic Campus Center at Emporia State University collaborate with Sacred Heart on the ministry. The group regularly raises funds and provides baby wipes for local pregnancy center Shiloh and collects
items like car seats and strollers for mothers in need. Sacred Heart School raised funds to purchase a table for the front of the parish church, where prayer cards are filled out for parents of newborns, expectant parents, those who have experienced child loss and couples struggling with infertility. Known as the Rose Project, the cards are placed in the adoration chapel, where the intentions are
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Kelly Gunderman, left, and Ann Ekis, parishioners at St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood, put together Love Boxes on Oct. 8 at the parish. The boxes will be distributed to pregnant women who could use additional support.
S LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
e (KCKCC), where Annita is studying nursing. Baker, a parishioner at Our Lady & St. Rose Parish in o Lines Pregnancy Clinic in Overland Park and has provided mentorship and resources ever since.
Affected by abortion? Reach out
W
omen and men who have been affected by abortion are encouraged to reach out to Project Rachel and Project Joseph for support. “There’s millions of women in our country who have suffered after an abortion,” said Debra Niesen. “Healing is available.” To learn more about both ministries, visit: projectrachelkc.com.
ministry,” she said. “And not only does this protect life itself, which is what Catholics [and] Christians are all called to do, but it also protects the mom and lifts up her human dignity.”
Changing lives
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
her classes. Baker was initially an “angel” for r son can thrive.
prayed for. Durbin said the ministry is all about walking in the shoes of moms and finding ways to help them. “It’s so fulfilling in a way that I never knew that part of me was missing in my life,” she said. “I think every parish should be involved.” Niesen hopes more parishes will be inspired to create a Walking with Moms program. “It’s such a beautiful and fruitful
“There’s a lot of people who don’t have someone to say, ‘You can do this,’” said Baker. “‘And I’m just going to hold your hand, and I’m going to walk you through this, and it’s going to be ok.’” One of those women was Annita, who had recently immigrated to the United States from Zimbabwe when she got pregnant. Her boyfriend drove her to have an abortion, but she walked into Two Lines Pregnancy Clinic in Overland Park by mistake. “Thank goodness I got people who helped me,” said Annita. Two Lines paired Annita with Baker, who provided support throughout the pregnancy and during the birth of her son Anaishe, whose name means “God is with him.”
Ready to help
t. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood and St. Agnes Parish in Roeland Park plan to launch Embrace Grace at their parishes. Both hosted a “Love Box Party” this month so parishioners could learn more. Those who attended packaged Love Boxes containing a baby onesie, book and handwritten letter of encouragement. They will be distributed by pregnancy resource centers or the parishioners themselves to pregnant women who could use additional support. Parishes that would like to help but aren’t able to host the program themselves can encourage their parishioners to volunteer or donate. To learn more about Embrace Grace, visit: embracegrace.com. To donate to the baby registry for the program at Church of the Ascension in Overland Park, scan the QR code.
“When Marilyn came into my life, my life changed,” said Annita. “She made my life easier. I could not make it myself.” “I was happy that God gifted me with this child,” she added. “I believe he’s going to change my life.” Recognizing Annita had no family or friends to support her, Baker has continued their friendship beyond Gabriel Project. Annita is now studying nursing at Kansas City Kansas Community College (KCKCC). Baker often drives her to school and appointments — when she’s not teaching her how to drive — and babysits Anaishe, who is 10 months old. “As a parent, you know what’s involved in the raising of a child,” said Baker. “And I’m thinking of all the needs that these moms are already facing, and at the same time making that decision of whether to have a child. “If we can just make their lives easier in those basic needs, then she could choose life.”
Fostering community “Women in these difficult circumstances don’t see another option,” said Leslie Brown, a parishioner at Church of the Ascension in Overland Park. “And I think we have to do more than say, ‘Don’t do it. Don’t abort your baby.’ “But [we have] to provide them a way to see why choosing life can also be very rewarding, and it’s what God calls us to do.” Brown helps lead Ascension’s Embrace Grace ministry — a 12-week, Gospel-based program for expectant mothers. “We minister largely to unwed, pregnant women who have chosen
life,” said Brown. “Some of these women have amazing support, and some of them having nothing but us.” “The whole purpose is to really pour into the woman to let her know that during this time of fear and anxiety, she is seen and known and loved by God,” said Niesen. The program is based out of Fort Worth and hosted in the archdiocese by Ascension, Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa and Corpus Christi and St. John the Evangelist parishes in Lawrence. So far, more than 30 women have participated locally. They’re typically referred to by pregnancy centers like Two Lines. “My favorite part was how welcoming everything was,” said one participant. “There was no judgement about anything.” “My pregnancy, as I’m sure with most, brought a lot of uncertainty,” said another participant, “but our weekly meetings were consistent, safe, predictable and routine.” “I had not felt so cared for in a long time,” she added. At the end of the program, the parish throws the women a baby shower and treats them to a “Princess Day,” where they enjoy dinner, take pregnancy photos and are given postpartum gifts and a devotional Bible. Faith is never pushed on the women, but some have been inspired to have their babies baptized in the Catholic Church. “We hope by our actions that these women can see how beautiful the Catholic faith is,” said Brown, “and maybe we’re planting those seeds that might turn their hearts to becoming a Catholic at some point in their lives.”
10 LOCAL NEWS
OCTOBER 16, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
Priests forever, even after retirement >> Continued from page 3
and nearby areas and remains involved in Marriage Encounter.
Father Bill Porter Father Porter served the archdiocese for 43 years before he retired at age 70 on New Year’s Day 2024. After celebrating his last Mass as pastor of St. Agnes Parish in Roeland Park on New Year’s Eve, he flew to Florida as the guest of good friends. It’s a trip he’s been able to enjoy several times since then. He especially enjoys fishing from a boat on the ocean, which he says “is a whole different kind of fishing.” Born in Iola in the Diocese of Wichita, Father Porter attended Washburn University in Topeka, where he met Father Vince Krische, which made him begin thinking about becoming a priest for the archdiocese. His last assignment before St. Agnes was at St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood, and that church was built during his time as pastor. In retirement, he often fills in at parishes in Johnson County and other places upon request. And the requests are frequent — sometimes two to three calls or emails a day. He’s also spent substantial time at Holy Family Parish in Eudora. “I know how hard it is to try to find someone to fill in so you can take your vacation or to try to get a few days off sometimes,” said Father Porter. “ So, I’m
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Father Bill Porter works on a Sudoku puzzle at his home. In retirement, he often fills in at parishes in Johnson County and other places upon request. happy as long as I’ve got the health to do it, and I’m glad to do it for [the priest who’s calling].” One of the nicest things about filling in, he said, is getting to see people he’s known from previous parishes and ministries, including campus ministry at Emporia State University and KU. “It’s always an extra treat when you see a familiar face that you haven’t seen in a long time,” he said. Father Porter tries to exercise every
day and does his own shopping, cooking and cleaning. He also enjoys seeing more of his family, still largely in Iola. He says he has a “pretty good life” — but then admits he always has. “God has been very good to me,” said Father Porter.
Father Jim Shaughnessy Father Shaughnessy was pastor
when Corpus Christi Church in Lawrence was built but spent the last decades of his active ministry at parishes in the Nemaha-Marshall Deanery — most recently as pastor at St. Michael in Axtell and Holy Family in Summerfield. He continues to celebrate Masses, hear confessions and officiate a few weddings and a lot of funerals. He serves most of the parishes in the Nemaha-Marshall Deanery and sometimes in Pottawatomie County and co-teaches a first Communion class. As he approaches 80, Father Shaughnessy enjoys staying active but doesn’t miss “the pastor part,” he said. “I don’t miss the paperwork and keeping the records.” He’s surrounded by his brother and sister, two nieces and nephews and their children who live in the area. And he enjoys tinkering on things like machinery. “But [I] can’t do too much on the new modern stuff with all the computers on it,” he chuckled. “That’s way beyond me. So, we usually are messing with the old stuff, like fences.” Father Shaughnessy celebrates Mass every Monday so that the priests of the deanery can have a day off. On a recent Monday, 20 people from at least five different parishes were in attendance. He knew them all. It’s clear by the way people greet the retired priests after Mass that their efforts do not go unnoticed — they truly are priests forever.
12 CLASSIFIEDS EMPLOYMENT Facilities and grounds supervisor - Prairie Star Ranch: helping youth and families encounter Christ, is seeking a full-time facilities and grounds supervisor to oversee the care and maintenance of our 291acre camp and retreat property near Williamsburg. Please visit the employment page on the Prairie Star website — psrcatholic.org — for more information or to apply. Student engagement coordinator - St. Lawrence Center at KU is seeking a full-time student engagement coordinator to help create a place where students feel known, welcome and invited into relationship with Jesus Christ and his church. The coordinator will engage new students, build community and create compelling experiences of belonging through outreach, events, marketing, communications and hospitality. The ideal candidate is relational, creative, organized, energetic and passionate about mission. To learn more or apply, email: apetty@kucatholic.org. CEO - Are you a retired executive looking for a meaningful way to use your experience, faith and leadership gifts to make a difference? The Forgiveness Institute is seeking a faith-filled, caring leader to become its next CEO. This ministry helps people work through forgiveness and discover the freedom that comes with healing and reaches people in prisons, churches and communities. We are looking for someone who enjoys working with people, leading an organization, speaking to groups, building relationships and fundraising. A retired executive with a servant’s heart could be an ideal fit. This is a handson ministry opportunity and may be paid or volunteer. For info, contact Larry Ryan (head of search committee). Email: larryryan@ryanlawn.com or call Larry at (913) 710-3230. Maintenance staff - Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa is hiring a maintenance staff member. This position supports the maintenance of all parish buildings and grounds — including the church, school, rectories and Fr. Quigley Center — to ensure they remain safe secure, clean and welcoming for parishioners, staff, students and visitors. The role emphasizes hands-on maintenance and custodial responsibilities. The standard work day for this position will be Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. with a modified schedule as needed for snow and ice removal. Applicants must be VIRTUS trained. This position is full time and qualifies for archdiocesan benefits. Visit: https://htlenexa.org/ our-parish/job-opportunities for a full job description and for directions to apply. 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. Director of Christian Initiation - St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood is seeking a full-time director of Christian Initiation to assist our team of clergy, religious and lay ecclesial ministers with pastoral care and accompaniment of those on a journey toward initiation into Christ and his church, and to be the lead agent for implementing the norms of the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA). The successful candidate will be a practicing Catholic with capacities for administration and direct ministry, ideally with a degree in theology or a related discipline and experience in parish ministry. Practical knowledge of OCIA, Catholic liturgical and sacramental economy and Catechism of the Catholic Church required. Sunday availability and evenings, as needed. Competitive salary and benefits commensurate with credentials and experience. For full description and to apply, visit: stmichaelcp.org/employment. Custodial staff - St. Matthew Parish, Topeka, is looking for two custodial staff who will help maintain a clean, safe and welcoming environment. Full-time day parish/school custodian includes regular cleaning, minor repairs and event setup/tear down. Parttime evening school custodian includes cleaning school facilities and ensuring the building is secure. Find more details on our website: www.saintmatthews.org or contact (785) 232-5012 or: parishoffice@saintmatthews.org for application/information. Executive director of mission - The Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth are hiring for an executive director of mission. The executive director of mission, in collaboration with the SCL leadership team and the executive directors of communal life and resources, will support the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth community as it focuses on sustaining its mission and charism into the future. Apply on our website at: https://www.scls.org/employees/. Administrative assistant - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking to hire an administrative assistant for the office of real estate and construction who will assist with matters related to real estate transactions, construction projects, property management and facility-related initiatives. The position is part-time, averaging 24 hours per week with work completed on-site at the chancery office. A high school diploma or equivalent is required. To apply, visit: archkck.org and click “Employment Opportunities.”
OCTOBER 16, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG Power plant operator - The Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth are hiring for a power plant operator. Serves as a shift operator in the power plant which produces high-pressure steam and chilled water. Apply on our website at: https://www.scls.org/employees/. Administrative assistant - St. Joseph Early Education Center in Shawnee is seeking a full-time administrative assistant to provide essential administrative and front-office support for the Early Education Center. This position works closely with the center director, assistant director and teaching staff to help ensure a welcoming, organized, safe and faith-filled environment for children, families and staff. Responsibilities include family communication, enrollment and student records, scheduling, purchasing and other daily administrative functions. The ideal candidate is organized, dependable, professional, compassionate and committed to supporting the mission and values of the Catholic Church. Interested applicants should email Kristan Mora at: kmora@stjoeshawnee. org or call (913) 248-4589. Paraprofessional - Nativity Parish School in Leawood is seeking full-time paraprofessional(s) for immediate hire. This position will work with students, supporting across all grades, pre-K–5th. Applicants should email the office manager, Haley Day, at: haley.day@ kcnativity.org. Part-time/day concrete finisher - Work 1 to 2 days per week or as needed on concreting days. Jobs will already be formed and prepped. Applicant must be capable of understanding and performing all duties involved in placing and finishing concrete flatwork. Email Al at: al_wegener@amdgconstructionkc.com or call at (913) 232-6029. Senior accountant - The business office of Benedictine College seeks a detail-oriented and highly skilled senior accountant to support the financial operations of the college. This role is responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, supporting budgeting and forecasting activities, ensuring compliance with institutional policies and applicable regulations and assisting with audit preparation and reporting requirements. The senior accountant will play a key role in establishing financial processes and internal controls for Benedictine College, ensuring fiscal integrity and operational efficiency in a growing academic environment. The ideal candidate has strong accounting experience, excellent analytical and communication skills and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced and developing organizational structure. For more information or to apply, please go to: benedictine.edu/jobs. Donor systems specialists (part-time) - Two Lines Pregnancy Clinic in Overland Park is seeking a detail-oriented donor systems specialist to manage donor records, process contributions, maintain database accuracy and support donor communications. Strong computer and data entry skills required. Experience with donor database software preferred. Must support the Christian mission and life-affirming values of the clinic. To apply, send your resume and cover letter to: rbogard@twolineskc.com. Medical professionals - The Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth are hiring a certified nursing assistant, certified medication aide, licensed practical nurse and registered nurse. We are seeking compassionate, dependable healthcare professionals who are committed to providing exceptional resident care. Take the next step in your healthcare career today and apply at: www.scls.org/employees/. Housekeeper (PRN) - The Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth are hiring a PRN housekeeper. This role focuses on the daily cleaning and upkeep of dining areas, common spaces, offices and restrooms, with occasional support for special events. We’re looking for someone reliable, independent and eager to make a difference. At least one year of prior cleaning experience and maintaining professional spaces a plus. This PRN position provides flexible, as-needed coverage for staffing shortages, vacations and employee absences. Hours are available Monday-Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., based on departmental needs. No guaranteed hours are provided. Ideal candidates will have flexible availability and be willing to pick up shifts to help maintain office operations during periods of increased workload or when regular staff members are away. Apply on our website: www.scls.org/employees. Motor coach chauffeur - Drive for Heartland Trailways. Compensation: $22-$28 per hour based on experience. Employment type: part-time. Experience level: mid-level. Requirements: Valid CDL class A or B with passenger endorsement; current DOT medical card; motor coach driving experience preferred. Ability to safely operate: 55-56 passenger motor coaches; 26-44 passenger mini coaches. Willingness to travel overnight. What we offer: Hourly or daily pay rates; per diem for travel. Seasonal bonus opportunities for qualifying drivers. If you’re ready to travel and be part of a great team, apply today! Submit your application online at: HeartlandTrailways.com or: http:// www.mydriverfiles.com/heartland-motor-coach-inc/ apply/. Administrative assistant to the general councilors - The Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth are hiring for an administrative assistant to the general councilors. Serves as administrative support for Sisters in leadership (up to three general councilors). This position acts in a manner that is reflective of the philosophy and mission of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth (SCL). The administrative assistant to the general councilors must handle discreetly a wide variety of sensitive, confidential information concerning corporate and personnel affairs. Resume and cover letter required. Apply on our website at: https://www.scls. org/employees/.
Teachers - St. Joseph Early Education Center is looking for caring, passionate and dedicated teachers to join our preschool team. The ideal candidate should have experience working with early childhood, have an understanding of child development, and strive to support and model our Catholic faith within the classroom. Interested applicants should email Kristan Mora at: kmora@stjoeshawnee.org or call (913) 6310004. Senior accountant - Church of the Nativity in Leawood is seeking a senior accountant. This position supports the comprehensive financial operations of the church and school through accounting, financial reporting, reconciliations, budgeting, HR/payroll, compliance and financial analysis. You will team with the director of operations (advanced accounting degree/experience to assist where needed) and bookkeeper (10+ years experience). Candidates should have a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance or a related field and at least four years of relevant experience. Bring your strong Excel and accounting software (QuickBooks preferred) skills. We’re looking for strong attention to detail, analytic, organization, multi-tasking and collaboration skills. This position is open due to retirement with relocation; ample overlap is planned to ensure a smooth transition. You’ll be employed in a sound financial environment that’s enjoyed a consistent operating surplus since 2018. Your guidance and execution will help us sustain financial security while growing as a most welcoming parish. Request more info or apply at: jobapplication@ kcnativity.org. Part-time nurse - Two Lines Pregnancy Clinic is looking for a part-time R.N. (8-24 hrs/week) to provide compassionate care, patient education and clinical support in a Christ-centered environment. If you’re passionate about walking alongside women during life-changing moments, this may be the opportunity you’ve been praying for. Apply today: andreac@ twolineskc.com. 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. Part-time kitchen aide - Sacred Heart of Jesus School in Shawnee is seeking a part-time kitchen aide to support the daily operation of our school lunch program. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys serving children, works well as part of a team, and takes pride in maintaining a clean, welcoming and faith-filled environment. The kitchen aide assists with meal preparation, serving lunches, maintaining food safety standards and keeping the kitchen and lunchroom clean and organized. The ideal candidate is a joyful servant who embraces our core values: unapologetically Catholic, joyful servants and grit. This is a school-year position, working two days per week, 9:30 a.m.–2 p.m. (5 hours per day). Please inquire and/or apply on our website: shoj.org/ employment-opportunities. Chief financial officer - Exchange Bank & Trust is a $600M family-owned community bank located in N.E. Kansas and N.W. Missouri. Primary duties: preparation, analysis and presentation of financial results to management, board and regulatory authorities; management, preparation and presentation of annual budgeting process; management of relationships and process for annual third-party audit, tax preparation and 401-K audit; bank policy development and reviews; acquisition analysis and participate in setting the bank’s strategic direction. This is an in-person position. The CFO will be required to spend a significant amount of time at the Atchison, Kansas, headquarters. Please send resume to: bhawk@ebt. bank. Part-time lunchroom coordinator - Sacred Heart of Jesus School in Shawnee is seeking a part-time lunchroom coordinator to oversee the daily operation of our student lunchroom. The position is responsible for coordinating lunchroom set-up and close-down, supervising operations, promoting positive student behavior, working collaboratively with kitchen staff and volunteers and ensuring the lunchroom operates efficiently each day. The ideal candidate is a joyful servant who embraces our core values: unapologetically Catholic, joyful servants and grit. This is a school-year position working approximately 15 hours per week (Monday–Friday, 10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.). Interested applicants are encouraged to inquire or apply online at: shoj.org/employment-opportunities. Senior accountant - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas has an immediate opening for a senior accountant. This position plays an important role in supporting the mission of the church by serving as a subject matter expert in all areas of accounting to directly assist parishes supported by our shared business services model. Please visit “Employment Opportunities” at the bottom of the archkck.org home page for more information or to apply. Part-time flooring installer - Fortress Floors KC is hiring a part-time crew member (20-40 hours/week, $18.50/hour) to help install polyurea/polyaspartic chip floor coatings. No experience required — we’ll teach you the trade. We’re looking for someone who shows up on time, works hard and is eager to learn. Great opportunity for someone looking for steady, hands-on work. Contact Kevin at (816) 694-3987 to apply.
After-hours custodian - St. Joseph Church in Shawnee is seeking part-time janitorial service to maintain a clean, sanitary and welcoming environment for our students, families, faculty, staff and visitors. The selected candidate will provide routine custodial services Monday through Friday and monthly detail cleaning for classrooms, offices, common areas, restrooms, cafeteria, chapel and other designated spaces. Interested applicants should apply on the St. Joseph website — www.church.stjoeshawnee.org, or email Sam Petty at spetty@stjoeshawnee.org. Part-time music director - The position is at Mother Teresa of Calcutta Church in Topeka. Please see description at: mtcctopeka.org. To apply, please submit your resume to: office@mtcctopeka.org. Call Lisa at (785) 286-2188 with questions. In-home care assistant - We are looking for an engaging in-home caregiver for our son with special needs in western Shawnee. He loves music, interacting with others, reading books and is learning new life skills. Help needed on Mon., Wed. or Fri. evenings and on weekends. $20/hr. Please call (785) 393-1589 Small equipment cleaning/repair - a small locally-owned family business is currently seeking fulltime 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 a detail-oriented service 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. Maintenance/custodial technician - St. Joseph Church is seeking a full-time maintenance/custodial staff member to support the care and upkeep of our campus in Shawnee. This position is responsible for maintaining a clean, safe and welcoming environment across our 20-acre campus, which includes seven buildings, a football field, a track and related facilities. Interested applicants should apply on St. Joseph’s website or email Sam Petty at spetty@stjoeshawnee.org.
HOME IMPROVEMENT Father and Son Home Remodeling - We specialize in kitchen/bathroom and basement remodeling, from start to finish. We also do decks, covered decks, porches, sun-rooms and room additions! If you’re not sure we do it, just call. From my family to yours, thank you for supporting my small business. To contact me, call (913) 709-7230 and ask for Josh. Haus to Home Remodeling - 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.
SERVICES Popcorn ceiling texture removal Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144. 30 years’ experience. Interior painting specialist. Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee. Custom countertops - Laminates installed within 5 days. Cambria, granite and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee. Joe’s Decks & More Deck and fence repair, mowing and handyman services Member of St. Joseph in Shawnee (913) 449-9848 Jack Harrison Heating & Air Conditioning - Proudly serving Johnson County, Kansas, parts of KCK and KCMO, we’re your trusted local experts in residential and light commercial HVAC. Whether you need a repair, seasonal tuneup or full system replacement, we’ve got you covered — with honest advice, quality work and friendly service. We’re a family-owned and operated company, rooted in the community as members of St. Paul Parish in Olathe. Call Jack Harrison Heating & Air today at (913) 308-3131 or visit: www. JackHarrisonAir.com to schedule online. Let our family take care of yours! GARAGE DOOR REPAIR EXPERTS New Garage Doors & Openers A Total Door, Inc. Since ’83. Leaven Discount buffy@atotaldoor.com or (913) 236-6440 www.atotaldoor.com 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. DASH Fencing Wood Fencing Repair and Replacement Free Estimates - Senior Discounts Available Reliable Service You Can Trust (913) 420-0197 Ephesians 3:18-19 Footprints Floors Family-owned and operated. St. Paul parishioners. Hardwood, tile, stone, vinyl and more Call for free estimate: (913) 372-3007 Footprintsfloors.com/kansas-city >> Continued on page 13
CALENDAR/CLASSIFIEDS 13
OCTOBER 16, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
VITAE PRO-LIFE DINNER Fiorella’s Event Space 9000 W. 137th St., Overland Park Oct. 20 from 6 to 9 p.m.
The keynote speaker will be Brandon Tatum, Turning Point USA contributor. Cost is $100 per person. All proceeds benefit Vitae Foundation. Register at vitaefoundation.org/events or call (573) 634-4316.
FALL CRAFT AND BAKE SALE 501 S. Willow Dr., Olathe Oct. 22 to 24 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Proceeds support pregnancy centers, Care Portal at Prince of Peace, The Little Sisters of the Poor nursing center and Starfish. Cash and checks only.
PERSONAL WITNESS St. Bernard Church 17665 Old Post Rd., Wamego Oct. 22 at 6:30 p.m.
Come listen to the amazing experience of an encounter with the Holy Spirit. Speaker will be Edward Jozsa, car
>> Continued from page 12 Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner Personalized aesthetic & wellness care Dysport • Dermal Fillers • Microneedling • Medical Weight Management Natural, confidence-enhancing results with a personalized approach to every patient. Aesthetics & Wellness by Tanairi, WHNP-BC Call or text (913) 972-5097. Rios Painting - Transforming your home one paint coat at a time. Over 20 years of residential and commercial interior and exterior painting. Reliable, professional, and affordable. Insured. Call or text Ramiro today for a free estimate! (913) 579-5016. Does your child struggle with reading? Targeted Support for Struggling Readers Real Progress • Real Results Janel Setter, Reading Specialist (M.S.) 785-304-9800 setterreading.com Memory quilts - Preserve your memories in a keepsake quality quilt, pillows, etc. Custom designed from your T-shirt collection, baby clothes, sports memorabilia, neckties . . . Quilted Memories. (913) 649-2704. Bill Dean Mechanical LLC Electrical Plumbing American Standard Heating & Cooling Furnace, AC and Water Heater Install and Service Email: Wmdean14@hotmail.com Web site: billdeanmechanical.com Joco lic # 2026-0008446, Text or call (913) 724-3294 K-12 tutoring - Tutor has classroom experience and has taught for 19 years. Tutor teaches in a fun and meaningful context. For more info please call/text Kathleen (913) 206-2151 or email: klmamuric@yahoo.com. Double A’s Lawn Service Mowing, Mulch, Gutters, Leaf Cleanup, Debris Removal & Brush Trimming Free Estimates & Insured Alex Spoerre (913) 488-5195
PILGRIMAGE Pilgrimages to Medjugorje - Sept. 30–Oct. 7, 2026. and Dec. 26-Jan. 4, 2027. Hosted by visionary Mirjana Soldo. For more information, email Grace Legaspi at: mgracelegaspi@gmail.com or go to: www.fiattravel.com.
CAREGIVING Prestige Home Care of Kansas - Catholic owned and operated. We have been in business for 19 years. We provide the full range of non-skilled care to help seniors and those with disabilities to remain in their residence. We specialize in assisting veterans. Visit our website at: www.ksprestigehomecare.com or call us at (913) 680-0493. 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.
WANTED TO BUY $$Paying Cash$$ - Antique Furniture, crocks, tin and cast iron toys, old tools, glassware, American coins, jewelry. Most anything old. Please call Patricia at (913) 515-2950. A member of Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa. BUYING OIL & GAS ROYALTIES Simplify your life. Paying 48 times average last 6 months income. Call Dan (913) 980-0946.
crash survivor. He tells his story for all, so that they may believe and gain the confidence needed to share their own story. www.presenceofGodencounters. com
CATHEDRALS TOUR Holy Trinity Church 13615 West 92nd St., Lenexa Oct. 22 at 7 p.m.
Join in a night of music from Matt Maher and Sara Kroger’s Cathedrals Tour: A Proclamation of the Kingdom of God. Tickets can be purchased at: cathedrals.live
WIDOW AND WIDOWERS MEETING Most Pure Heart of Mary (Culhane room) 3601 S.W. 17th St., Topeka Oct. 22 from 5 to 7 p.m.
Pizza will be provided by the club. Bring a covered dish or dessert. Quarter Bingo will be played after dinner. There is no cost to attend. For more information, text Gen Orozco at (785) 230-2473.
COMMUNITY HARVEST FESTIVAL St. Dominic Church 416 Ohio Ave., Holton Oct. 24 at 5 p.m.
Join St. Dominic Parish’s growing community in celebrating its first Community Harvest Festival! There will be pulled pork and fresh cut fries, games for all ages, live music and fellowship. Festivities begin immediately after the 4 p.m. Mass. Live auction begins at 8:15 p.m.. Proceeds support the future of St. Dominic Church.
BEER & HYMNS KC Bier Co. 310 W. 79th St., Kansas City, Missouri Oct. 26 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
“Beer & Hymns” has become an international phenomenon, gathering people together in various pub settings to sing both church hymns and secular songs as they eat and drink. Everyone who enjoys singing is welcome. No cost to attend. This event is sponsored by the local chapters of National Association of Pastoral Musicians. Questions, contact Theresa Vitt at npminkc@gmail.com.
SILENT RETREAT Marillac Retreat and Spirituality Center 4200 S. 4th St., Leavenworth Oct. 26 to 31
Marillac Retreat and Spirituality Center offers a quiet, peace-filled space, open to receive those looking for prayer, rest and renewal. All are welcome to come and make silent personal or directed retreats. Please visit MarillacCenter.org for more information and to register.
FALL LUNCHEON & CARD PARTY St. Ann Church 7231 Mission Rd., Prairie Village Oct. 29 from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Women are invited to enjoy lunch, games and a cash raffle for gift cards. Tickets are $25/per person at www.stannpv. org/lunchandcardparty. Questions? Call Paddi at (913) 406-7252 or Suzanne (913) 638-7987.
CASH PAID FOR COIN COLLECTIONS! Silver dollar coins, half-dollars, quarters, dimes, old pennies. Cash in hand. Also paying cash for old paper currency. Cash in that old dusty box of coins! Call Kirk (913) 213-9843. Member of Holy Trinity Parish. Please sell to local people. Wanted to buy 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. WANTED TO BUY - PAYING CASH Antiques & Collectibles: jewelry, military items, railroad items, sterling, OLD holiday/toys & more. Renee Maderak (913) 475-7393 St. Joseph, Shawnee. 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.
REAL ESTATE Paul O’Toole – Real Estate Agent (KS & MO) Weichert Realtors – Welch & Company (913) 489-1229 (mobile) | (913) 647-5700 (office) 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.
FOR SALE For sale - 2 plots in the Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Topeka, KS. Side by side in the Trumpeter addition. $2,000 each. Call (512) 947-0977. For sale - Two adjacent burial spaces at Gate of Heaven Cemetery KCK in St. Gabriel’s Garden with rights for first and second interment. (913) 634-5647. 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 - Beautiful burial plots — exceptional savings. Two full-body burial plots available in the peaceful Veterans Garden at Resurrection Cemetery in Lenexa. Section B, spaces 3 & 4. A wonderful opportunity to secure a beautiful final resting place at a significant savings. Make an offer: Vic (913) 957-9846. For sale - 4 burial pots in Mount Calvary Cemetery KC KS, section MC-11, lot 68 1,2,3,4. Price $2,000 each. Contact Tammy Cahill (816) 738-4543. Atchison multigen home - 4-bed/3.5-bath newer build completed late 2021 near Benedictine College. Features 2 kitchens, 2 laundries, separate living quarters, 5 covered parking spots, workshop w/ 1/2 bath, fenced yard & newer hot tub included. Rate buydown concessions offered. $515,000. Located at 715 S. 4th St. Call agent/owner Hailey: (706) 718-1925. Keller Williams One Legacy Partners, LLC. For sale - One cemetery plot. Shawnee Mission Memory Gardens. Garden of Valor. Lot 65, block A, space 1, sect. 3. Containing one double-depth interment space. Asking price is $3,500. Email: nlloyd2278@ gmail.com or call (682) 471-1735. For sale - Cemetery plot for sale at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Kansas City, Kansas. Space: Disciples H115 (double depth). Vaults: lawn crypts already there. Marker: classic pine 16x24 on 20x28 granite. Two openings and closings. $7,500. Call (913) 4888634.
NEED HELP HEALING FROM A PAST ABORTION? Call or text 913-621-2199
14 COLUMNISTS DAILY READINGS TWENTY-NINTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Oct. 18 TWENTY-NINTH SUNDAY OF ORDINARY TIME Is 45: 1, 4-6 Ps 96: 1, 3-5, 7-10 1 Thes 1: 1-5b Mt 22: 15-21 Oct. 19 John de Brébeuf and Isaac Jogues, priests, and companions, martyrs Eph 2: 1-10 Ps 100: 1b-5 Lk 12: 13-21 Oct. 20 St. Paul of the Cross, priest Eph 2: 12-22 Ps 85: 9ab, 10-14 Lk 12: 35-38 Oct. 21 Wednesday Eph 3: 2-12 (Ps) Is 12: 2-3, 4c-6 Lk 12: 39-48 Oct. 22 John Paul II, pope Eph 3: 14-21 Ps 33: 1-2, 4-5, 11-12, 18-19 Lk 12: 49-53 Oct. 23 John of Capistrano, priest Eph 4: 1-6 Ps 24: 1-4b, 5-6 Lk 12: 54-59 Oct. 24 Anthony Mary Claret, bishop Eph 4: 7-16 Ps 122: 1-5 Lk 13: 1-9 THIRTIETH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME Oct. 25 THIRTIETH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Ex 22: 20-26 Ps 18: 2-4, 47, 51 1 Thes 1: 5c-10 Mt 22: 34-40 Oct. 26 Monday Eph 4: 32 — 5: 8 Ps 1: 1-4, 6 Lk 13: 10-17 Oct. 27 Tuesday Eph 5: 21-33 Ps 128: 1-5 Lk 13: 18-21 Oct. 28 SIMON AND JUDE, APOSTLES Eph 2: 19-22 Ps 19: 2-5 Lk 6: 12-16 Oct. 29 Thursday Eph 6: 10-20 Ps 144: 1b, 2, 9-10 Lk 13: 31-35 Oct. 30 Friday Phil 1: 1-11 Ps 111: 1-6 Lk 14: 1-6 Oct. 31 Saturday Phil 1: 18b-26 Ps 42: 2-3, 5cdef Lk 14: 1, 7-11
OCTOBER 16, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
My Jabbok: A journey of struggle, faith and transformation
T
he story of Jabbok in the Book of Genesis has always touched my heart. Jabbok was the place where Jacob wrestled through the night with God. He arrived there carrying fear, uncertainty and the burdens of his past. Yet he did not leave Jabbok the same person. His struggle became a moment of transformation. He received a new name, a new identity and a renewed sense of purpose. I believe that every person has a Jabbok in life — a place of struggle, uncertainty, fear and challenge where God quietly works within us. Sometimes we do not recognize it while we are going through it. We may simply wonder why something is so difficult. Only later do we realize that God was using that experience to shape us and prepare us for something greater. My Jabbok was learning English.
ALONG THE WAY
FATHER JOMON PALATTY, MSFS Father Jomon Palatty is the pastor of Annunciation Parish in Baldwin and St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Lapeer.
When I came to America, one of the greatest challenges I faced was learning to communicate in English. For someone who had grown up speaking Malayalam, English was not easy. There were moments when I felt frustrated, embarrassed and inadequate. I wanted to express my thoughts clearly, especially in ministry, but
sometimes the words did not come easily. Language was not simply a subject I needed to study. It became a daily struggle. I had to listen carefully, learn new words, practice speaking and accept that I would make mistakes. But slowly, I began to understand that my struggle was not a sign of failure. It was becoming my Jabbok. Like Jacob, I had to wrestle — not only with a language, but also with my fears, limitations and insecurities. I had to surrender my desire to be perfect and
trust that God could work through my weaknesses. My Jabbok taught me patience and humility. It taught me that it is perfectly acceptable to struggle while learning. It taught me to laugh at my mistakes, to keep trying and to depend more deeply on God. I do not claim that the struggle is over. English continues to teach me humility! But I have learned something important: God does not wait for us to become perfect before he calls us to serve. He works through our weaknesses, our limitations and even our struggles. Looking back, I can see that my Jabbok was not simply an obstacle. It was a blessing in disguise. The struggle changed me. It brought me closer to God and helped me understand that ministry is not about having perfect words. It is about having a heart willing to love, listen, serve and accom-
pany God’s people. Perhaps you have your own Jabbok. It may be a difficult relationship, an illness, a loss, a financial struggle, a new responsibility, loneliness or a fear about the future. Whatever it may be, do not assume that God is absent from your struggle. Sometimes Jabbok is precisely where God is waiting to transform us. Jacob crossed the river carrying his fears, but he left carrying God’s blessing. My journey through the challenge of English has taught me the same lesson: What feels like a struggle today may become the very place where God prepares us for tomorrow. May we never be afraid of our Jabbok. May we enter it with faith, wrestle with courage, surrender ourselves to God and trust that when the morning comes, we will leave transformed.
Our schools must be places where all are welcomed
O
n the 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time, we heard the parable of the workers in the vineyard. That Gospel reading has always given me pause, much in the same way the story of the prodigal son does. It seems to punch me right in the “fair” part of my ego. To say I find them challenging is an understatement. And I have heard a myriad of homilies on both topics: God’s love is not our love; God’s ways are not our ways; God’s mercy is for all. It never really bridged the gap for me. I still felt unsettled whenever those Gospels were read. But recently, I heard a catechist online talking about how she presented the Gospel reading to her first grade class. She turned the focus from the workers who felt indignant about the newer workers getting paid the same to the latecomers themselves.
FROM THE SUPER
ERIN VADER Erin Vader is the superintendent of archdiocesan schools.
She asked: Why do you think they were still waiting for work? That question stopped me in my tracks. I had never thought about it. Maybe they looked weak. Maybe they had physical problems, or health issues. Maybe it took them longer to do something than someone else. “Have you ever been picked last for something?” the teacher asked. “Yes,” most of
the children replied. Yes, they had been picked last, and it hadn’t felt very good. That changed everything about how I viewed the story. I was ashamed that I had never thought of it that way. I had always pictured myself as one of the ‘all-day’ workers — how arrogant. And I had always pictured the latecomers as lazy — how judgmental. I thought more about those workers — the ones who were picked last. And I realized this parable is so very illustrative of what we hope our Catholic schools will be
— and cautionary as to what they very easily could become. We want our schools to be like Christ — like the boss in this story — welcoming all comers, no matter when they get there, no matter what they bring to the table. Sometimes, we cannot serve students — not because we don’t want to, but because we don’t have the resources available to us. We don’t have the bilingual teacher, or the reading specialist, or the counselor, or an accessible campus. It is heartbreaking when that happens. We are working to improve our ability to serve all students. Our Perfect Wings Program is committed to expanding our ability to welcome and serve students, no matter how different their abilities may be. We have beautiful partners in this work: the Catholic Education Foundation
(CEF), EMBRACE, the Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas (CFNEK), the Brown Family Foundation, and so many individual donors. Call to Share provides critical funding as well, allowing all of us to be part of this mission. Together, we are helping our schools become places where more students can be welcomed, supported and formed to maximize the gifts God has given them. This parable encourages me to look at who is sitting at the margin, who is waiting to be picked, who is yearning for an invitation. Am I providing the room, the time, the grace for them to join in the work? Am I supporting their inclusion in the work? Am I encouraging others to welcome them as well? If we are creating centers of charity and mercy in our schools, I better be. It is what we are called to do.
THOMAS BECKET 1118-1170
A London-born clerk to Archbishop Theobald of Canterbury, Thomas studied canon law abroad and was ordained a deacon. His support of Henry II’s claim to England’s throne led to his appointment as royal chancellor. He was the king’s great friend until 1162, when, as the new archbishop of Canterbury, he said he changed from being “a patron of play-actors and a follower of hounds, to being a shepherd of souls.” He and the king clashed over many issues, notably the jurisdiction of ecclesiastical courts. Thomas fled to France for six years; soon after his return, Henry’s wish to be rid of this troublesome prelate led to Thomas’ murder by four knights. This medieval martyr starred in two modern plays: Eliot’s “Murder in the Cathedral” and Anouilh’s “Becket.”
COLUMNISTS 15
OCTOBER 16, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
T
he heart of the deacon’s identity and spirituality is “service.” In fact, the Greek work “diakonia,” from which we get the word “deacon,” means service. The document establishing the norms for the restoration of the permanent diaconate says that “with sacred ordination, [the deacon] is constituted a living icon of Christ the servant within the church.” Therefore, the deacon must pattern his life on Christ the servant, who lived totally at the service of God, for the good of all. And yet, in a real sense this spirituality of service is really the spirituality of all Catholics. Stated dif-
The deacon’s lesson: Live to serve ORDAINED TO SERVE
DEACON LEON SUPRENANT Deacon Leon Suprenant is the co-director of the office of the permanent diaconate. He may be reached at: leons@archkck.org.
ferently, all Christians participate in Christ’s kingly office. And in his kingdom, royal authority is not about secular power, but about ser-
vant leadership. So, how do we go about developing and living a “spirituality of service”? Much of it entails drawing upon our baptismal grace as children of God and partakers of the divine nature. So in that regard, we all draw upon the sacraments, especially the Eucharist and reconciliation, daily prayer, Scripture
reading and acts of charity. And we do these things in the context of our own unique, personal circumstances — what we call our “state of life” — as we strive to bring every aspect of our lives under the authority of Christ the King. But given that context, I think there are some elements of the deacon’s lived experience that would be of particular assistance to all Catholics. Here are a few. Silence. It’s important that we all find time in the day to be silent before the Lord, to wait upon him. We know deep down that time with him isn’t “wasted.” And yet, we have such great difficulty
disconnecting from all the noise of our busy lives. It’s something that deacons build into their days, to allow for the Liturgy of the Hours as well as private prayer. Listening. Silence creates space in two important ways. First, it opens us to hear God’s Word as it comes to us in sacred reading. Second, it opens us to truly listen to others. Before we can serve anyone well, we usually need to listen to them first and accompany them on their journey. A servant church is definitely a listening church — a synodal church. Integration. Deacons must learn to integrate the diaconate into all areas of their lives. Deacons are not deacons only on week-
ends or when they’re at church. They remind us that our baptismal calling likewise has to be integrated into every aspect of our lives — from family and work to entertainment choices and social interactions. A compartmentalized faith simply cannot bear good fruit. Mercy. The deacon’s ministry par excellence consists in works of charity and mercy, especially tending to those who fall through the cracks or live on the margins. The deacon’s life and ministry encourages all of us to expand our concept of mercy, so that no one is forgotten or rejected. Families that foster these things are truly centers of charity, mercy and service.
16 LOCAL NEWS
CHILD’S PLAY
OCTOBER 16, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
Holy Family students thrilled with new playground By Eileen Scott Special to The Leaven
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OPEKA — Students at Holy Family School here have a new playground for the first time in 30 years. According to principal Relynn Reynoso, they now have a much larger space to run and play and more age-appropriate equipment to enjoy. That includes new slides, climbing walls and monkey bars. A blessing and ribbon cutting ceremony was held on Sept. 24. Father Dan Coronado, pastor of nearby Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, offered the blessing, and school board members Allan Towle and Earl Flowers participated in the ribbon cutting, along with the eighth grade class. The playground is the result of the school’s annual extravaganza fundraiser held in February. The event committee unanimously agreed that all proceeds would go toward building it. Roughly 300 people attended the extravaganza, and $75,000 was raised. Work on the new playground began in the spring. Reynoso attributes the extravaganza’s success to intentional marketing, a new and bigger venue and the community coming together around the desire to bring a new playground to the school. Several community members have visited with her and talked about the need for the upgrade over the three years she’s been principal. While the outdoor play area is a source of fun and exercise, it offers more than just a physical outlet. According to Reynoso, playgrounds are a place where young students can develop compassion and respect and learn to encourage one another. “It’s about socialization and playing together, helping each other, cheering each other on,” said Reynoso. “We see all of that.” For the eighth graders, the new playground was also an opportunity to serve the school. They wanted to contribute as a service project, and this summer they were given the task of filling in the mulch beneath the equipment. The students were divided into shifts, taking turns over the course of three hours to shovel the mulch onto
LEAVEN PHOTO BY TODD HABIGER
Relynn Reynoso, principal of Holy Family School in Topeka, cuts the ribbon to the school’s new playground on Sept. 24. Assisting Reynoso are, from left, Efrain Ortega, Holy Family eighth grader; Allan Towle, Holy Family board member; Father Dan Coronado, pastor of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Topeka; and Earl Flowers, Holy Family board member. the playground. Despite the heat and the time-consuming task, Reynoso said, “They never complained. I kept hearing things like, ‘This is service. We’re giving back.’” “It’s important to serve,” said eighth grader Uriel Rivera. “And it helps me in the future to not be lazy.” Following the ribbon cutting ceremony, the eighth graders were recognized for their service by having the opportunity to be the first students to play on the new equipment. “Being the first ones to be able to play on it was really meaningful since it’s our last year,” said eighth grader Isaac Torrez. For Torrez and Rivera, playing on the new playground brought back memories of kindergarten, when they first started school, and playing tag throughout the years. “I hope students who use the playground use it safely,” said Rivera. As for Torrez, he said, “I hope students make good memories on it.”
LEAVEN PHOTO BY TODD HABIGER
Eighth grader Robbie Abbey breaks in the new slide at Holy Family School in Topeka. The eighth grade class helped fill in the mulch around the new playground equipment and were rewarded with the opportunity to be the first students to enjoy it.
“We are proud to be a locally owned family funeral home serving our community.”
SOLUTION
FUNERAL HOME • CREMATORY • MEMORIAL CHAPELS 10901 Johnson Drive Shawnee, Kansas 66203 Telephone 913-631-5566 Fax 913-631-2236 Gregg Amos
www.amosfamily.com
POST-ABORTION HEALING FOR MEN Call or text 913-621-2199