www.theleaven.com | Newspaper of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas | Vol. 31, No. 5 August 28, 2009
At home on our range A group of Italian teens find the heart in the heartland
Leaven photo by Joe Bollig
Francesca Leali (left) and Luca Sartorio join their schoolmates at the serving line for lunch at Let’s Help, a social service agency in Topeka. They were part of a 21-student contingent from Our Lady of the Snows School in Adro, Italy, who were invited to learn more about America by Father Tim Haberkorn, pastor of St. Joseph-Sacred Heart Parish in Topeka.
By JOE BOLLIG
T
Leaven staff
OPEKA — America? Sure, Italian teenagers know about America. They’ve seen America on TV, in magazines, and in the movies. Recently, however, a select group of 21 Italian teens and three chaperones from Adro, Italy, discovered another America seldom seen in international news — Topeka, Kansas. They were here at the invitation of Father Tim Haberkorn, pastor of St. Joseph-Sacred Heart Parish. During the Italians’ sojourn in middle America from Aug. 7 to 20, they had the opportunity to practice their English, perform works of service, pray, and encounter all kinds of Americans — and a few surprises.
The accidental ambassador What brought the young Italians to Topeka was pure serendipity. About 10 years ago, Father Haberkorn got lost while on a trip to the northern Italian city of Brescia. “I, being the relic hunter that I am, was in Brescia looking for the convent of the Ursuline Sisters to view the incor-
rupt body of [their foundress] St. Angela Merici,” said Father Haberkorn. Instead, he got turned around and wandered into a parish served by the Carmelite friars. Being the convivial sort that he is, Father Haberkorn hit it off splendidly with the Carmelites and was “adopted” by them. During subsequent visits to Europe, he often managed to go to Brescia. It was during one of those visits that he got to know the Carmelites at a school, La Madonna della Neve (Our Lady of the Snows) in the nearby town of Adro. “I was talking to the priests there, and I said, ‘Why don’t you bring some kids over [to Topeka] sometime?’” said Father Haberkorn. Lay teachers from the school visited Topeka in January to lay the groundwork. Father Haberkorn helped with the itinerary and finding host families for the students from among his parishioners.
At home on the range The students, ages 15 to 17, were led by two Carmelite priests — Father Claudio Grassi, OCD, and Father Elie Massad, OCD — and a lay teacher, Francesca Tamimi. Only the very best students were al-
lowed to go. All of them could speak some English, but with varying degrees of fluency. Most had some travel experience, but none had been to the United States before. “Everyone wanted to come to the USA, but we couldn’t afford to bring them all,” said Father Grassi. The student’s 14 days in the heartland of America were filled with activities. The group itinerary included a swimming and barbecue party; a trip to the World War I Museum, the Nelson Art Gallery, the Country Club Plaza, and Worlds of Fun in Kansas City, Mo.; a tour of the state Capitol and the Kansas Museum of History; and a visit to Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Topeka. In addition to seeing the sights in Kansas City, the Italians made a side trip to the old and new cathedrals in St. Louis, and a quick pilgrimage to Our Lady of the Snows Shrine in Belleville, Ill. The Italians’ curiosity about Native Americans was satisfied by a visit to the Potawatomi Reservation, where they found something in common with Adro — the Our Lady of the Snows Shrine. They also encountered American food — pizza, tacos, hamburgers and barbecue. On the whole, consuming American food was a positive experi-
Leaven photo by Joe Bollig
Massimiliano Berardi and Emanuele Delledonne sort through piles of donated clothes at Let’s Help. The Italian students spent their time in prayer, fun outings, English practice, and works of service. ence and several teens said they liked American food very, very much. One boy, however, acquired a hor-
Turn to “Hospitality” on page 6
THE LEAVEN • AUGUST 28, 2009
Leaven photo by Elaina Cochran
Father Roderic Giller, OSB, (left) and Abbot Barnabas Senecal, OSB, join Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann in concelebrating Mass to break in the new Sts. Peter and Paul School in Seneca. Msgr. Gary Applegate (right) served as master of ceremonies.
SECOND FRONT PAGE 3
Leaven photo by Elaina Cochran
The Knights of Columbus honor guard helped make the opening of Sts. Peter and Paul School in Seneca a grand occasion as they joined the archbishop and priests of the archdiocese. The first day of school was Aug. 19.
New year, new school for Seneca By JOE BOLLIG Leaven staff
SENECA — Excited? You bet they were excited, and not just because it was the first day of school. “There was a lot of excitement when [the students] walked through the doors,” said Nancy Steinlage, Sts. Peter and Paul School secretary. “The new school had something to do with it.” Classes at the newly built Sts. Peter and Paul School started Aug. 19. Some of the students had seen the new facility during the blessing and dedication on Aug. 2, but the first day of classes was the first look for others. Ah, there’s nothing like that new school smell. But this nice, shiny, new school wouldn’t have been built without many sacrifices from parishioners, said pastor Father Michael Koller. “It means that we have a very vibrant community that believes strongly in its faith, and are very strong supporters of the parish and of Catholic education,” said Father Koller. “With 830 families and a $3.9 million facility, they did very well.” The one-story, 25,267square-foot building houses about 175 students, 13 teachers and seven staff. It has a preschool, kindergarten, and grades one through five. Students in grades six through eight go to the junior high building (the former high school), which has also seen some renovations and improvements. Construction of the old school began in 1895 and was completed late (thanks to the intervention of a tornado) in 1898. Generations of Seneca Catholics were called to their books by the ringing of the school bell. Time and changing needs
Leaven photo by Elaina Cochran
Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann blesses the new Sts. Peter and Paul School on Aug. 2 as pastor Father Michael Koller (left) and parishioners look on. The 25,267-square-foot building houses about 175 students, 13 teachers and seven staff. It has a preschool, kindergarten, and grades one through five. The facility cost $3.9 million.
took their toll, and about 15 years ago the parish began to plan to replace it. The old school was razed in the summer of 2008, and Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann presided at a groundbreaking for the new facility on Aug. 9 that year. The archbishop returned almost a year to the date for a blessing and dedication of the new school on Aug. 2, which was also marked the 140th anniversary of the parish. Father Koller and approximately 15 other priests concelebrated with the archbishop, who also gave the homily at the 3 p.m. Mass. The archbishop was joined at the altar by Abbot Barnabas Senecal, OSB, of St. Benedict’s Abbey in Atchison, and parish natives Abbot Owen Purcell, OSB, and Abbot Ralph Koehler, OSB, both retired. Former pastor Father Roderic Giller, OSB, was honored for having launched the process that culminated in the new school. After the Mass, Archbishop Naumann led a procession of clergy and parishioners to the entrance of the new school. There, he blessed the structure and welcomed everyone inside by ringing the old school bell, which, with the old belfry, had been salvaged and incorporated into the new structure. The old school’s cornerstone, too, was saved for the new school. While inside, the archbishop blessed the parish hall/school cafeteria, computer lab, library, seven classrooms, gymnasium, locker room, kitchen, offices, teacher workroom, and eucharistic adoration chapel. A dinner, sponsored by the Knights of Columbus, was held following the blessing and dedication.
4 LOCAL NEWS Mary Louise and Gordon Reintjes, members of St. Agnes Parish in Roeland Park, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 22. The couple was married at St. Andrew Church in Tipton, Mo., on Aug. 22, 1959. A family Anniversaries dinner was held at Homestead Country Club in Prairie Village. The couple’s children and their spouses are: Anne and Frank Smith, Leo and Carolyn Reintjes, Tom and Tonya Reintjes, Mary and Francois Soler, John Reintjes, Jenny Reintjes, Christianna (deceased), and Jim and Jenny Reintjes. They also have nine grandchildren. Margaret and Tom Hodes, members of Church of the Ascension, Overland Park, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on Sept. 3. The couple was married at St. Francis Xavier Church in Kansas City, Mo. They have nine children, 23 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Their children are hosting a party for them at the Ritz Charles.
THE LEAVEN • AUGUST 28, 2009 Alphonse “Herb” and Janice (Cordes) Cheray, members of Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish in Overland Park, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a Mass on Aug. 22, followed by a reception with family and friends at St. Andrew Golf Course. The couple was married on Aug. 29, 1959, by Father Leonard Torline at St. Joseph Church, Conway Springs. Their children and their spouses are: Jane and Bruce Hall, Plano, Texas; James and Wendy Cheray (deceased), Overland Park; Nancy Kay Cheray (deceased); and Brenda and Mark Scott, Maple Grove, Minn. They also have seven grandchildren. Lloyd and Eileen Dreiling, members of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary with a Mass on Sept. 6. The couple was married on Sept. 5, 1959, at St. Anthony Church in St. Peter. Their children and their spouses are: Glenn and Maria Dreiling, Mike and Kay Dreiling, and Wesley Dreiling (deceased).
THE LEAVEN • August 28, 2009 Jack and Betty Green, members of Curé of Ars Parish, Leawood, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on Sept. 7. The couple was married at Sacred Heart Church in Wichita Falls, Texas, on Sept. 7, 1949. They celebrated with a Mass and dinner with family. Their children and their spouses are: Chris Green (deceased), Jeanne Green, Julie and David Bultuska, Peter Green, Paul and Debbie Green, Celia Green, John and Cathy Green, Victor and Jennifer Green, Phil and Edie Green, Monica and Tim Hughes, and Mary and Steve Morsch. They also have 30 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
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The Leaven only prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th anniversary notices. Announcements are due by 5 p.m. eight days (Thursday) before the desired publication date. Announcements must be typed. They are for parishioners of Catholic parishes in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. Send notices to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, attn: anniversaries; or send an e-mail to: Todd@theleaven.com.
Patrick Towle, a member of Christ the King Parish in Topeka and Boy Scout Troop 11, will receive his Eagle Scout Award at a court of honor on Aug. 30 at Christ the King. For his Eagle project, Towle led a team of Eagle scout Scouts who built easels for the Family Service and Guidance Center in Topeka, to be used at its annual fundraiser to display artwork made by clients.
Fellin lecture to focus on social justice ATCHISON — In June, Pope Benedict XVI’s latest encyclical made it clear that the Catholic Church is very much concerned with issues related to the environment, poverty, and workers’ rights. Following up on the pope’s message, the 13th annual Mary L. Fellin Lecture will focus on Catholic social teaching and the church’s vision of economic and social justice. The presentation is set for 7:30 p.m. on Sept. 20 in O’Malley-McAllister Auditorium on the campus of Benedictine College, Atchison. The featured speaker for the night is Amata Miller, IHM, Ph.D., a noted authority on domestic and global justice issues.
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K E AT I N G
Lenexa women help ministry help families It didn’t take long for Brisimitzakis and fellow Holy Trinity parishioner Martha Hubbard to outline plans for a fundraiser, then put those plans in LENEXA — Many families who motion. have experienced the death of a baby The fundraiser is a first for Alexstruggle in silence. But the folks at Alexandra’s House andra’s House, which has historically relied on private donations and supin Kansas City, Mo., want to change port. all that. “This is a calling we do for love And they are getting a little extra alone and we don’t accept help from two parishiomoney from the families ners at Holy Trinity Parish For more informawe serve,” said Lewis. in Lenexa. tion on the “Bow Ties But when Hubbard and It all started when Patti for Babies Gala,” call Brisimitzakis approached Lewis, founder and direc(816) 931-5378 or Lewis with the idea, she tor of Alexandra’s House, send an e-mail to: took it to prayer and discame to speak to the alexandrashouse@ cussed it with staff, the Daughters of Isabella at mac.com. Questions board of directors and Holy Trinity. can also be directregular supporters of In her presentation, ed to Joan Brisimitthe ministry. Everyone Lewis discussed her work zakis at (913) 780agreed the fundraiser was 2510 or to Martha in the perinatal hospice Hubbard at (913) a good idea. program with families 254-1153. Lewis said that while who suffer from miscara fundraiser is obviously riage, stillbirth, or a terabout raising money to minal diagnosis affecting support the needs of Alextheir baby soon after birth. andra’s House, it serves a much highAs participants rehashed Lewis’ remarks later, it became clear to Joan er purpose than obtaining funds. “Our first goal is always awareBrisimitzakis, a member of Holy ness,” she said, “so that if someone Trinity, that these kinds of tragedies out there needs us, they can find out are anything but rare. our services exist.” “It really seemed to touch home The fruits of the Holy Trinity duo’s with a lot of women,” Brisimitzakis said. “A lot of us had similar experi- labor, a “Bow Ties for Babies Gala,” will be held Sept. 12 at the downences of losing a child, and many town Kansas City Marriott Hotel in don’t realize the level of outreach needed for women who have suf- Kansas City, Mo. The evening will include cocktails and a video slide fered this kind of loss.” show about the work of Alexandra’s Brisimitzakis, who had lost a stillHouse. born child, felt moved to help the “We’re hoping to get the message ministry of Alexandra’s House. “I felt like I could relate to some out about Alexandra’s House and aid of what parents there were going them in making their mission a little easier to accomplish,” said Hubbard. through, and I wanted to see if we “We just hope people in the comcould do a fundraiser to help support munity are made more aware of the families physically or emotionthe great work done by Alexandra’s ally,” she said.
By Kara Hansen Leaven staff
House and feel moved to attend or make a donation,” added Brisimitzakis. The cost is $150 a person and tables of 10 are available for $1,500. Sponsors for the full or partial amount of a table are welcome, said Brisimitzakis. Funds raised will go toward helping families with funeral expenses, providing staff to attend doctor appointments with families, running a support group and hosting an annual retreat for families who have experienced infant loss. It will also enable the ministry to provide families with a place to stay during that difficult time. “We always help with funeral expenses for families who cannot afford them and we receive calls from families outside of Kansas City we have never even worked with,” said Lewis. “People know we will help them.” Hubbard said she wished such a resource had been available when her first son was born with a congenital heart defect and given a poor prognosis. Though her child did survive and is now grown, Hubbard did not have the resources at the time to quell the overwhelming range of emotions and stress parents in such circumstances find themselves experiencing. “It really helps to associate with those who have been through similar experiences,” said Hubbard. “When you visit Alexandra’s House, there is a certain comforting feeling there. It’s a place to pray, relax and find help at a most trying moment.” For more information about the ministry and work done at Alexandra’s House, visit the Web site at: www.alexandrashouse.com.
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LOCAL NEWS 5 Sister Mary Donalda Orleans, SCL LEAVENWORTH — Sister Mary Donalda Orleans, 87, a Sister of Charity of Leavenworth, died July 10 at the motherhouse here. Grace May Orleans was born on July 17, 1921, at Fort Collins, Colo., the second oldest of seven children of Louis P. Jr. and Laurence Michaud Orleans. She graduated from St. Joseph Grade School and Fort Collins High School in Fort Collins. She entered the religious community of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth on Sept. 1, 1939, and, as Sister Mary Donalda, made her profession of vows on Obituary March 2, 1941. From 1941 to 1948, Sister Mary Donalda taught the middle grades in schools staffed by the SCL community in Kansas, Colorado, Missouri, and Montana. In 1949, she attended Creighton University in Omaha, Neb., where she earned a bachelor’s degree in pharmacy. She completed her internship in pharmacy at St. Vincent Healthcare in Billings, Mont., and St. James Hospital in Butte, Mont. Sister Mary Donalda served as chief pharmacist at St. Vincent Healthcare; St. John Hospital, Leavenworth; St. Joseph Hospital, Denver; De Paul Hospital, Cheyenne, Wyo.; and at the East Side Neighborhood Center in Denver. She was staff pharmacist at General Rose Memorial Hospital, Denver. After her pharmacy career, Sister Mary Donalda worked in the school office at Mount St. Vincent Home in Denver. Later, she volunteered in the archives at St. Vincent Healthcare. She retired to Ross Hall at the motherhouse in 2008. Survivors include her sisters — Sister Rita Orleans and Irene Hamblin — and her brothers: Louis, Donald and Richard Orleans.
6 LOCAL NEWS
THE LEAVEN • AUGUST 28, 2009
Hospitality, size and diversity of America surprised students Continued from page 1 ror of fried chicken. Apparently, a rogue fowl left him with a daylong tummy ache.
American impressions The Italian students did their homework before coming to Topeka. “I dealt with the cultural aspect,” said teacher Francesca Tamimi. “We did some lessons about Kansas, and charted the social problems, and the geographical and historical context.” She organized the students into study groups and they did research on various topics. Nevertheless, there were surprises. They had some ideas about America, said Tamimi, but the degree of difference between Italian and American culture left them “positively astonished.” “They had some expectations, but the impact was a new one,” she said. The impressions were largely positive. “The people are very funny, and kind, and the place is very beautiful,” said Luca Sartorio. “They are kind and nice with us,” said Giulia Messina. By way of contrast, one student said most Italians are “too solemn.”
It’s bigger “Everything is bigger than in Italy,” said Claudia Berardi, “the cars, and the
shampoo. The shampoo is smaller in Italy. The houses in Italy are smaller than the American houses.” “I love the houses of Kansas,” said Filippo Tonelli. “They are very different. In Italy, they aren’t made of wood, because it is too expensive. I love the cars of Kansas, and there are the big streets you can drive.” Even the people are bigger in Kansas. “Because you eat a lot of sweets,” said Giulia. “Everything is good here.” One thing in Kansas isn’t larger than in Italy: the elevation. Kansas, they noticed, is rather flat. “In Kansas, there aren’t any mountains, and no sea,” said Claudia. “I thought that there might be some mountains, but there aren’t.” One thing the Italians expressed repeatedly was the warm welcome extended to them by the friendly Kansans. “I think the hospitality is better in America than in Italy,” said Claudia. “In Italy, the people are not so hospitable.” The wide-open fields and pastures of Kansas made a big impression, as did the long distances. They were also impressed by the amount of green spaces and trees in cities and towns in Kansas.
Land of many churches Italy is overwhelmingly Catholic, so it was a surprise for the students to come to Topeka and see the religious diversity of America. “They were very surprised,” said Fa-
ther Grassi. “We are not used in Italy to so many different religions.” “ [The students] ask me what is the difference from one to another, and sometimes I am not able to answer them,” he continued, “because there are so many different churches. For instance, here on one street you can find many different churches. In Italy, maybe one or two in town, but not so many.” Italy, like the United States, has different ethnic groups. In Adro and Brescia, however, they do not have ethnic parishes. They noticed that American Catholicism is strong, and a bit more conservative than in Italy. Americans have many more religious objects in their homes, and are more prone to make the sign of the cross. Italians, however, sing more during Mass.
A grimmer side of America Although they had opportunities for fun, the Italian students were not here primarily as tourists. They did chores for host families and volunteered for tasks at Father Haberkorn’s parishes. The students also saw a grimmer side of America when they volunteered at Let’s Help, a social service agency in Topeka. They helped prepare and serve noon meals, sorted donated clothes, stocked the food pantry, and assembled packets of school supplies. “I think it is a good job for us to help the poor people, who are less lucky than we are,” said Luca Sartorio. “In all the
world, America is seen as a technological country, but here are also poor people in the big city.” “I think the United States is very big and modern, but there is another reality,” said Clarissa Paletti, “because there aren’t only rich people, but there are also poor people, with their needs.” The whole point of going to Let’s Help was to gain a sense of solidarity with the poor and a feeling of brotherhood with those who live far away from Italy, explained Father Grassi.
Kansas souvenirs The Italian students returned home with photographs, souvenirs, and lots of good memories. “We told them to expect to learn how Americans live, the culture of American people, and to make new friends,” said Father Grassi. “And they expected to make good friends, of course. They need friends.” And not just friends, he said, but friends in faith. The Catholics of Topeka and the Catholics of Adro had an opportunity to share hospitality and their shared faith. The end result was a shared benefit. “I want them to come back [to Italy] and tell their friends that we can live the faith everywhere in a good way, and people are of the same heart, the same need to be loved and in contact with God,” said Father Grassi. “That, I would like.”
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Mass Of Innocents Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann invites you to join him in a Mass of Remembrance for all who have experienced the loss of a child thru miscarriage or other before birth losses, through stillbirth, or in early childhood death. Sunday, September 13, 2009 noon Savior Pastoral Center 12601 Parallel Pkwy Kansas City, Kansas 66109
An Open Heart By Jill Ragar Esfeld
K
ANSAS CITY, Kan. —
Julie
Brock-
Garcia is alive to-
day because of an abortion that didn’t happen. Now, 12 years after her mother braved the storm of having a child out of wedlock, she’s battling for her
Hope and a pilgrimage
daughter’s life once again. Only this time, she’s not alone. Pam Garcia was a 20-year-old college student involved in what she thought was a committed relationship when she discovered she was pregnant. Her boyfriend insisted she get an abortion or he would have nothing to do with her or the child. “My mom was pro-life advocate up at St. Agnes [in Roeland Park], so I really knew a lot about it,” recalled Pam. “I couldn’t go through with an abortion.” “I wasn’t going to push the issue; I didn’t even ask for child support,” she said. “I totally broke off the relationship.” Pam had a beautiful baby girl, named her Julie, and prepared for her future as a single parent. But an old high-school sweetheart, Peter Garcia Sr., had a better idea.
A perfect family
Pam and Peter met and dated as students at Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park. After graduation, Peter joined the military. Although the couple agreed to see other people, they still remained close, often talking on the phone. “We talked to each other about the people we were dating,” recalled Pam. “I could always talk to him about anything.” After the birth of Julie, however, Pam called Peter and told him she wouldn’t be able to stay in touch with him any longer. She had to devote all of her energy to taking care of Julie. “I told him, ‘I really like you, but I’ve got to focus myself on this child I’ve created,’” she said. “He asked me about the guy involved, and I told him that he didn’t want to have anything to do with me or the baby. “Then my [future] husband said, ‘Well, you’ve always been the one I wanted to marry and I still want to marry you. ‘“So I’m going to ask you: Will you be my wife and let me take care of you and our baby?’” Pam hardly knew what to say. “I was in tears at that point,” she said. But she eventually said yes, and the two were married. A year later, the couple presented Julie with a little brother, Peter Jr. They became active members of St. Agnes Parish and School and went on their lives.
Julie gets her strength from her parents, who faithfully attend Mass each week and say a family rosary at least twice a week. “Whenever we pray the rosary,” said Peter Jr., “Julie is part of our petitions, and I pray that she gets cured.” And in the months since Julie’s diagnosis, the Garcias have experienced many little miracles that have helped them continue to trust in God’s plan for their daughter. When Julie was hospitalized, her dad happened to glance out her window one day and saw the contrails of two planes make a cross in the sky. Below the cross was a double rainbow. He turned to his wife and asked, “Do you think [God is] hearing our prayers?” She didn’t hesitate. Looking out the window she said, “Yes. I know he is.” When Pam visited St. Agnes first-grade teacher Sister Ann Everett the following day, she was told that “yesterday the kids were working to send a rainbow of prayers up to the Lord for Julie.” Even as the cross and rainbow appeared outside Julie’s window, in fact, 400 students were writing personal prayers on pieces of colored paper and linking them together in a prayer chain.
Trip from the heart
The St. Agnes School Love Walk raised funds to send Julie Brock-Garcia (seated, above) to Lourdes, France, with her brother, Peter Jr. (left), her mother, Pam, and her father, Peter Sr.
New Hope
Julie Brock-Garcia holds her dog, Hope, who was a surprise from her parents when she came home from the hospital. Until last January. That’s when Julie started to feel lethargic. Then, one evening at home, Julie passed out on their second floor landing and fell down the stairs. Peter and Pam rushed their daughter to the emergency room and were met there by every parent’s nightmare. Their bright, athletic daughter had idiopathic cardiopulmonary hypertension
— a progressive, incurable disease affecting her heart and lungs. Half her heart was already irreparably damaged.
A faith-filled fighter
Even in the hospital, right after her diagnosis, Julie took a positive approach to her illness. “When I first heard of it, I thought it might change my life,” she said, “and it has. “But I don’t really mind. I’m able to do most of what I want to do.” Julie has had to give up her beloved sports. She can’t run or do high-energy activities. And she will have to be homeschooled next year. “But she’s a fighter,” said Pam, “and she believes in heaven. She’s like, ‘If I do die, it’s OK, Mom.’ “And I’m like, ‘Well, yeah. But we’ll miss you.’”
Julie came home from the hospital on oxygen and in a wheelchair. But for a short while, it hardly seemed to matter. For waiting for her there was something she’d dreamed of for a very long time — a puppy. “For the first time in a long time, I saw Julie laughing and smiling,” recalled her mother. “And I said, ‘That’s a little bit of hope right there.’ So we named [the puppy] Hope.” Hope was not the only surprise awaiting Julie. Students at St. Agnes School wanted to do a Love Walk for her, a traditional school fundraiser for families in need. The students wanted to raise money to send Julie and her family on a pilgrimage to the Basilica of Our Lady of Lourdes in France. “It showed what a family our whole church and school community are,” said Mo Orpen, St. Agnes’ vice principal and director of development. “Whenever someone is down, there are hundreds of us around to help pick them up or help carry them through the rough times.” “We really instill that in our students here,” she added. “So this gave our kids a great opportunity to do that.” The Garcia family went to Lourdes in May, and Julie was immersed in the water that flows from the grotto, which she said was “really special, but really cold.” The family found the entire experience humbling. “Lourdes itself is a paradise,” said Pam, “but there were thousands of people there. When we did the candlelight procession, we were crunched, shoulder to shoulder, and all these people came hoping for a miracle. “When you’re focusing on your own world, you unintentionally block those things out. “But when you’re thrown into a big pool with everybody having so many issues, it’s like, ‘Wow, what am I complaining about?’” Julie came back from Lourdes not cured, but improved. She was no longer confined to a wheelchair or in need of oxygen. And another surprise awaited her. The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Missouri wanted to grant her a wish.
A wish to make a difference
Julie is a huge fan of the “Terminator” movies and chose as her wish to meet Arnold Schwarzenegger and go to Disneyland. Make-A-Wish submitted the paper-
Fun and games
Julie Brock-Garcia can no longer run or engage in strenuous activities. But she and her brother Peter still find games they can enjoy together.
A time to pray
Julie (left) and her brother Peter Jr. (right) join their mom, Pam Garcia, in a rosary at least twice a week. They pray for Julie’s health and for their dad, Sgt. Peter Garcia, who is currently serving in Iraq.
A wish for the future
work, and Julie was waiting for a response when an encounter with a homeless man turned her decision upside down. “I had wanted to see Arnold, but one day we were at a red light and there was a guy close to our car who had a sign ‘In Need of Food,’” Julie recalled. The family had a box of cookies in the car. They pulled over and handed the cookies to the man. He dropped his sign, and dug into the cookies. The man was ravenous — and also very, very grateful. Julie was touched beyond measure. Despite all she had on her own plate, she couldn’t get that moment and that homeless man out of her mind. “I still wanted to see Arnold Schwarzenegger, but I couldn’t stop thinking about the homeless man and how he enjoyed the cookies so much,” she said. “I just knew there had to be other people in need of food, and I started thinking maybe for my wish I could donate money to a food kitchen.” When Pam called Make-A-Wish to ask if it were possible for Julie to have the monetary equivalent of her wish donated, she was met with disbelief. The people there were so astonished by the request, they asked to talk with Julie personally. “They said, ‘If it’s just that you don’t want to see Arnold, we can switch that. You can go to Hawaii or we can get you a horse. You can have a personal Jacuzzi,’” recalled Pam. “They offered her all these
temptations and she just said, ‘No, thank you.’” Julie chose to donate funds totaling $5,000 to the food kitchen at Guardian Angels Church in Kansas City, Mo. — the parish in which her dad, who had recently been deployed to Iraq, grew up. When Make-A-Wish told the staff workers at the food kitchen the news, they couldn’t have been more grateful. Demand for food had been so high lately, they were concerned about how they were going to make it through the winter months. “I guess God helps other people by using us,” said Julie. “And I guess I’m the person he chose to help [those that are] trying to help the homeless.” But it’s more than that. “You were open to the call — you were an instrument,” Julie’s mother told her. “I know we’re not supposed to brag,” said Pam simply, “but I’m so proud of her.” Make-A-Wish Foundation members were so impressed with Julie’s generosity they called Kauffman Stadium and nominated her for the Buck O’Neil Legacy Seat — a prime stadium seat reserved for a member of the community who embodies O’Neil’s charitable spirit. Julie was the honored guest at a game in August, but the experience was bittersweet — she wished her dad could have been with her. And for that reason, she has chosen to make the donation to Guardian Angels when her dad comes home from Iraq sometime in October.
In the meantime, this close-knit family will do what they always do: pray. Julie said she prays to God the Father, but also for the intercession of Mary, St. Michael, St. Thérèse the Little Flower and St. Bernadette. And for now, said her mother, medication is “leveling things out” for Julie. The family will stay positive and hope for a breakthrough — medical or otherwise. Watching Julie cope with this dire disease over the last eight months, however, has given Pam cause to reflect more than once on her decision 12 years ago to carry her baby to term. And to thank her lucky stars. These months have been a blessing of a sort, as Pam has witnessed firsthand the way that Julie’s life has touched so many, many others — and has opened their hearts to compassion, hope and trust in God. “I am very blessed and very thankful that I didn’t go through with an abortion,” said Pam, “just because of all the wonderful things I would have missed out on.” When Julie herself is asked about her own hopes for the future, her answer is full of the unselfish attitude that has touched so many. “I just want people to notice the homeless and people in need and try to do their best to help them,” she said. “And I hope people who don’t know God that much — that they could actually say prayers once in a while and maybe they could start realizing all that God does for us,” she added. Out of the mouth of babes, thinks her mother. “We haven’t gotten the healing for her,” said Pam, “but God has healed her in a different way — by opening her heart.”
10 NATION
THE LEAVEN • August 28, 2009
US bishops press for further easing of restrictions on Cuba HAVANA (CNS) — A delegation of U.S. Catholic bishops visiting Cuba urged U.S. President Barack Obama and Cuban leaders to take advantage of the change in the U.S. administration to end the trade embargo Washington has imposed on the island nation since 1962. “I believe that the church [both in Cuba and the U.S.] wants to be the protagonist of a better approach,” Bishop Thomas G. Wenski of Orlando, Fla., a member of the U.S. bishops’ international policy committee, told reporters at a press conference in Havana Aug. 18. After a meeting earlier in the day with the staff at the U.S. Interests Section, which represents the government in the absence of formal diplomatic ties between the two countries, Bishop Wenski said he believes the Obama administration’s revision of policies toward Cuba is serious and proceeding step by step. The U.S. church supports easing travel to Cuba and eliminating the embargo that prohibits most trade between the two countries. Bishop Wenski, Boston Cardinal Sean P. O’Malley and San Antonio Auxiliary Bishop Oscar Cantu were visiting Cuba the week of Aug. 17, in part to see the island’s progress in recovering from three hurricanes and two tropical storms that hit late last summer and fall.
Convention opens Knights of Peter Claver’s 100th year NEW ORLEANS (CNS) — The Knights of Peter Claver, the nation’s largest lay organization for African-American Catholics, kicked off its 100th anniversary celebration during an annual convention in New Orleans July 31-Aug. 7. At an Aug. 2 Mass during the convention, Father Edward Chiffriller, superior general of the Josephites, told about 4,000 people at the Ernest Morial Convention Center in New Orleans that no matter what distance they had traveled to honor the organization’s legacy, or whether they were young or old or even didn’t know many people in the crowd, they were all one family. “Whether we are from Maryland or Mississippi, Louisiana or California, by baptism, confirmation and Eucharist we are God’s church family,” the priest said. “Jesus is the head of our church and we are members of his body. And secondly we are Claver family.” Father Chiffriller was the homilist at the Mass. The principal celebrant was Archbishop Wilton D. Gregory of Atlanta. The centennial will be officially commemorated in early November in Mobile, where the organization was founded by four Josephite priests and three laymen with an initial membership of 40 men.
THE LEAVEN • AUGUST 28, 2009
US veterans wage war on homelessness
Religion, science need each other
By Dave Jolivet
Catholic News Service NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (CNS) — The Pledge of Allegiance concludes with the statement that America is a land “with liberty and justice for all.” That statement, however, is being tested by a disturbing statistic showing that most homeless people in New Bedford are veterans, according to Dan LaBlanc, a retired Marine who served in Vietnam and currently heads the local Department of Veterans Services. But a group of veterans is doing something to help their homeless peers in the Whaling City, as it’s known. For the past nine years, members of Welcome Home Veterans Housing Inc. have been pursuing affordable, safe and permanent housing for them. Led by a Vietnam veteran and former first lieutenant in the Army Nurse Corps, Kathleen M. Splinter, the Welcome Home group has secured an outof-service sweater mill that is being transformed into 19 apartments for U.S. veterans in need. Splinter is president of the housing organization and also a parishioner at Notre Dame Parish in Fall River. “We must take care of our veterans, especially those in need,” said Splinter, who was awarded the Bronze Star Medal in 1969 for outstanding service to her patients. She said the nine-year process to get the housing project off the ground was “full of twists and turns.” The housing unit will be named the Sean Brooke House after an Army combat medic who on his way back to his base following a charity function was killed by a drunk driver in Hawaii in 2005. Before his death, Brooke served a 14-month tour of duty in Iraq, treating U.S. soldiers and Iraqi civilians. At a ground-breaking ceremony, Splinter said she could relate to Brooke since they both served wounded soldiers in combat. The Sean Brooke House is expected to be ready for residents to move in by next summer.
CNS photo/Alessia Pierdomenico, Reuters CNS photo/Mike Crupi
STUDENT ASSISTED BY TEACHER AT NEW YORK SCHOOL — Andrew Hoyt, a sixth-grader at Cathedral School at Holy Rosary in Rochester, N.Y., gets some help from technology teacher Susan McKernan June 9, as he navigates a social-networking Web site called ePals, which is approved by the school.
Some Catholic schools see benefit of social networking sites By Mike Latona
Catholic News Service ROCHESTER, N.Y. (CNS) — Some Catholic schools in the Diocese of Rochester are taking a new approach to the ever-increasing appeal of online social networking sites by using them in the classroom — with two key safety factors: kid-friendly sites and adult supervision. This past year, fourth- through sixthgrade students at Cathedral School at Holy Rosary in Rochester exchanged emails with students from Turkey through the Web site www.ePals.com, which has members around the world. The project was coordinated by Susan McKernan, who serves as the Cathedral School’s educational-technology coordinator. “You get to learn about other people’s cultures, what they like to do, how they like to spend their time,” said Andrew Hoyt, 12, who graduated in June from Holy Rosary, whose students are prekindergarten through sixth grade. At St. Louis School in Pittsford, students regularly post videos on www. schooltube.com, a children’s site similar to YouTube. St. Louis’ offerings have been mostly event-oriented, featuring an ice cream social, the school’s Christmas pageant and a Mass at the end of the school year.
Every now and then, children can even benefit from social-networking sites for adults. For example, Susan Nagle, technology coordinator and network administrator at St. Mary Our Mother School in Horseheads, utilized Twitter, an information-sharing site, this past spring during the Atlantis shuttle repair of the Hubble telescope. Her students followed “tweets” — or posts on Twitter — that astronaut Mike Massimino regularly sent from orbit. “I see the use of Twitter in the schools as an excellent source for newsbreaking events,” Nagle added. “In fact, the discovery of water on Mars was tweeted first, before all other sources of communication.” Nagle emphasized that she’s squarely against children using Twitter — which lists a minimum age of 13 in its terms of agreement — on their own. A person also must be 13 to use social networking sites such as Facebook or Bebo, whereas MySpace sets the minimum age at 14. McKernan, citing safety reasons, isn’t so sure those guidelines are sufficient. “Personally, I don’t even feel comfortable [for usage] under the age of 16, raising children in this day and age,” McKernan remarked, expressing concerns about online predators, bullying and gossip.
POPE BENEDICT GREETS CROWD — Pope Benedict XVI greets the crowd after celebrating Mass for the feast of the Assumption at the Church of St. Thomas of Villanova in Castel Gandolfo, Italy, Aug. 15. The pope was still wearing a cast on his right arm from a mid-July injury. The cast was removed on Aug. 21 and doctors said the pope’s wrist was healing well.
Filipinos mobilize to fight aerial spraying of agricultural lands QUEZON CITY, Philippines (CNS) — Farmer Cecilia Moran fought back tears as she told how the aerial spraying of chemicals on a banana plantation near her home made her child ill. “She had a hard time breathing and her skin was itchy and irritated,” the 47-year-old mother told 60 representatives of church and human rights groups, school workers, artists, and environmental and social development activists. The Asian church news agency UCA News reported that Moran claimed illnesses in her village in Davao City, on Mindanao Island, are triggered by the spraying of chemicals. Children and adults living in the area suffer from blindness, paralysis, cerebral palsy, respiratory and lung problems, cancer and goiter, she claimed. Moran, a member of Citizens Against Aerial Spraying, said the group is appealing for help after legal action failed despite a Department of Health study recommending the banning of aerial spraying. At an early August meeting in Quezon City, Jesuit seminarian Jomarie Manzano promised Citizens Against Aerial Spraying that he would organize students at the Jesuit-run Ateneo de Manila University to support campaigns against the aerial spraying of harmful chemicals.
Xaverian Father Archie Casey, who works on justice and peace issues for the Association of Major Religious Superiors in the Philippines, said he would raise the issue with his association so it could plan its response. Meeting participants were given an outline of the problem by Rene Pineda, president of the National Task Force Against Aerial Spraying. Pineda said that spraying pesticides from small airplanes or helicopters has been carried out on banana plantations in Mindanao since the 1970s. Owners now reportedly spray around 900 of the more than 12,000 acres of banana-plantation land, including four areas in the Calinan district where Moran lives. He said the mixture sprayed usually contains pesticide, water and oil or a binding or emulsifying substance. He also identified various fungicides used, including one he said was suspected of causing birth defects such as cleft palates. Pineda cited the Department of Health’s May study in which an examination of some villagers’ blood — and air and soil samples — in Mindanao’s Davao del Sur province reportedly confirmed contamination beyond agricultural plantation boundaries.
PUNE, India (CNS) — Science and religion are allies and partners, not competitors, and true science opens an exciting path to God, an Indian archbishop told a national conference. “Science that studies the universe is an exciting path to God,” Archbishop Thomas Menamparampil of Guwahati told a national gathering on “Christian Faith in a World of Science and Technology: Challenges and Opportunities,” reported UCA News, an Asian church news agency. The Salesian prelate is also chairman of the Commission for Education and Culture under the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India. Two Vatican delegates were among 60 bishops, religious superiors and scientists who addressed issues related to the religious, moral and social challenges science poses. Archbishop Menamparampil described the universe as a book of theology, a spiritual treatise. “Today, not just theologians and mystics but also scientists speak of mysteries,” he said. Mystery has been the underlying principle of religion, art and science as they look into deeper realities, he said. While scientists in the past have insisted on experience and observation as the criteria of knowledge, “modern scientists are not embarrassed to say that they were guided by their intuition whenever their performance peaked,” the prelate explained. Archbishop Menamparampil also described scientists’ version of the origin of the universe as no less mysterious then the biblical account in Genesis. “We get into the mystery of mysteries when we begin to study subatomic particles, supernovas and distant galaxies, speculate about the possibilities of multiple big bangs, of parallel universes and undreamt of dimensions of space-time, until we are lost in the majestic beauty of God’s creation,” he said. The archbishop later told UCA News that science and religion need each other to appreciate the complexities of the world and the cosmos.
“We constantly hear how grateful children are that their parents had things taken care of. Have you done this for your children?”
WORLD 11
Iraqi bishops express concern for people after blasts BEIRUT, Lebanon (CNS) — Two Catholic bishops in Baghdad, Iraq, expressed shock and concern for their people following a series of targeted blasts that killed 95 people and wounded more than 500. “With these acts of violence, we are losing everything,” Chaldean Auxiliary Bishop Shlemon Warduni told Catholic News Service by phone Aug. 20, the day after the attacks. “When there’s no peace, we can’t study, we can’t pray, we can’t work; we can’t even walk,” he said. The Christians of Baghdad, he said, are “very upset and very sad” and condemn the violence. Latin-rite Archbishop Jean Sleiman of Baghdad told CNS: “We are shocked by this violence. The fear of violence is everywhere.” Archbishop Sleiman said that Our Lady of Fatima Church in Baghdad was badly damaged in the Aug. 19 blasts. While he said he did not believe the church was specifically targeted, its roof was destroyed as a result of the nearby explosions. There were no casualties, he added. “Violence is hitting everyone,” the archbishop said. One of the most important challenges, he added, is to encourage the Christians of Iraq. “We have to begin again,” he said.
Justice starts at home: Vatican norms reflect church teaching VATICAN CITY (CNS) — When Pope Benedict XVI wrote in his new encyclical that efficiency and profit cannot be the only things motivating an ethical employer, he was speaking for himself as well. The Vatican published the encyclical “Caritas in Veritate” (“Charity in Truth”) July 7, the same day the pope signed the new statutes of the Labor Office of the Holy See. The office was established 20 years ago, at a time when Vatican lay employees publicized labor grievances and threatened work stoppages. New salary structures were introduced and the Labor Office functioned as an arbitration and mediation service for employees with grievances. In the first few years of its existence, the office handled about 400 cases each year, said Massimo Bufacchi, who recently was named director of the Labor Office. Bufacchi told the Vatican newspaper, L’Osservatore Romano, that the serious complaints have all but ended, so the statutes have the office focusing more on promoting the professional and spiritual development of the employees and creating a work environment marked by justice, equality and “authentic respect for the human dignity of each collaborator.”
DeLeon Furniture
Furniture, upholstering and restoration 1142 Minnesota Ave. Kansas City, Kan. 66102 (913) 342-9446
Concrete Work
Funeral homes • crematory • Memorial chapels legacy center • activity center 10901 Johnson Drive Shawnee, Kansas 66203 Telephone 913-631-5566 Fax 913-631-2236
Villa St. Francis
16600 W. 126th Street • Olathe, Kansas 66062 Phone: (913) 829-5201 Fax: (913) 829-5399 Daily Mass in the Chapel at 10 a.m. • Medicare and Kansas Medicaid certified • 24 - hour nursing care • Dementia/Alzheimer’s unit • Physical, occupational and speech therapist on staff/ Rapid recovery • Nutritious Home cooked meals • Private and Semi Private rooms • Beauty and Barber Shop • 24 hour snacks Affiliated with the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas
www.amosfamily.com Gregg Amos
Any type of repair and new work Driveways, Walks, Patios Member of Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish
Harvey M. Kascht (913) 262-1555
Wagner’s Mud-Jacking Co. Specializing in Foundation Repairs Mud-jacking and Waterproofing. Serving Lawrence, Topeka and surrounding areas. Topeka (785) 233-3447 Lawrence (785) 749-1696 In business since 1963
12 CLASSIFIEDS Employment Help wanted - COBRAGuard is a nationally recognized leader in COBRA administration. We are expanding our business and are seeking qualified individuals to help with our tremendous growth. If you are looking for an opportunity with a growing firm, make sure you apply with us. We have openings in our call center, sales, IT, and accounting departments. To apply, visit the Web site at: www.cobraguard.net (follow the jobs link), or send an e-mail to: HR@COBRAGuard.net. EOE. Pastoral associate position - St. Gabriel Parish, an active parish of 900 families including a school and active youth program, located in Kansas City, Mo., is seeking candidates for a pastoral associate. The position entails work in sacramental preparation, RCIA, adult faith formation, advocacy for annulments, and pastoral care. The candidate should possess education and knowledge associated with these areas. For information, contact Father Joseph Sharbel at (816) 453-1183, ext. 204; or submit resume, via e-mail, to: jsharbel1@aol.com.
Financial representative - Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding financial representatives in the Kansas City and Emporia areas. This position is ideal for a determined, high-energy, high-expectation, professional, self-disciplined, independent individual desiring to serve others, yet earn a better-than-average income. We provide top-rated financial products to our members and their families and will provide excellent benefits and training. For more information or an interview, contact John A. Mahon, 307 Dakota, Holton KS 66436; or call (785) 364-5450. Sales counselor - Don’t just get a job, start a rewarding career! McGilley Memorial Chapels has been serving Kansas City since 1899 with eight metro area locations. We currently have career opportunities for motivated sales professionals who are service-minded, energetic and ambitious. Experience in the funeral home or cemetery industry is helpful but not necessary. We provide an excellent, structured training program and we offer a full benefits package, flexible hours and advancement opportunities. For additional information or to submit your resume, send, via e-mail, to: shelly. weatherford@sci-us.com.
Services Tutoring - K - 12 tutoring available in various subjects, especially study skills, test prep., French and Spanish. Tutor customizes lessons in a fun and meaningful way. For information, call (913) 206-2151 or send an email to: MamuricK@hawks.rockhurst.edu. Housecleaning - JoCo and WyCo areas. Member of St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee. I have 2 openings available for cleaning. Call Marcia at (913) 707-7166. Professional college essay service - High-quality writing grabs attention and yields results. Three-person review team will edit your scholarship and college application essays. We provide feedback and suggest improvements to craft a persuasive essay. Fall review slots fill quickly. Contact Denise at (816) 520-1642, or send an e-mail to her at: collegeessay@me.com. Need Help with QuickBooks? I have years of experience with QuickBooks and I will help set up your program or work with you on a continual basis. I reconcile checking, credit cards and loans; write checks; and set up automatic bill payments. Excellent references. Call Ann Evans at (913) 406-9778. Clutter getting you down? Our professional aesthetic organizing and handyman services can help. We organize and clean up homes, businesses, cars, computers — you name it! We also provide minor fixes and installations, trash/charity haul off, trash removal from abandoned homes or housing units, and we promise to leave with a smile on your face. Visit our Web site at: www.koatindustries.com. Licensed and insured; references available. Call Kevin at (913) 271-5055. Bankruptcy - When debt becomes overwhelming, seek professional help. Experienced, compassionate Catholic attorney Teresa Kidd. For a confidential, no obligation consultation, call (913) 422-0610; or send an e-mail to: tkidd@ kc.rr.com.
Quality piano lessons - Caring and motivating teacher with 11 years experience. Seeking students between the ages of 2nd - 12th grade. South Johnson County area. Call (913) 338-3022. Tree Service - Pruning ornamental trees for optimal growth and beauty and removal of hazardous limbs or problem trees. Free consultation and bid. Safe, insured, professional. Brad Grabs, Green Solutions of KC, (913) 244-5838. www.Green SolutionsKC.com.
THE LEAVEN • August 28, 2009 Foley’s Lawn Care 2009 Season Weekly mowing & landscape maintenance! Call now for your FREE estimate! (913) 825-4353 Serving Johnson County Commercial and residential Granite, Cambria and Silestone countertops - See our new showroom at 5820 Barton, in the heart of beautiful downtown Shawnee. Call The Top Shop, Inc., at (816) 8988685 or (913) 962-5058.
Machine quilting - by Jenell Noeth, Basehor. Also, quilts made to order. Call (913) 724-1837. Senior care available - Part time, in your home. Olathe and south Overland Park areas. Call Vera at (913) 397-9560. Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation to the elderly and disabled in home, assisted living and nursing facilities. We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Andrea, Sara or Gary. Do you or your parents need help at home? - For as little as $60 per week, Benefits of Home-Senior Care can provide assistance with personal care, shopping and many other daily needs. For details, visit our Web site at: benefitsofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591. Do you intend to leave a Catholic charity in your will? What are you waiting for? The Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas helps people with charitable intent to put their instructions into place. We help stretch your gift further and last longer for the people you love and the causes you care about. For a free, confidential consultation, call (913) 647-0365 or for free estate planning information, visit the Web site at: www.cfnek.org.
Home Improvement Housepainting, powerwashing, rotted window sills repaired - Quality products. 20 years experience. References. Call (913) 341-7584. Masonry work - Quality, new or repair work. Brick, block, and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; second generation bricklayer. Call (913) 829-4336.
Brown’s Carpet - Installation and repair carpeting; vinyl and wood installation. Free estimates. 10 years experience. Serving the KC metro area. Call (913) 231-4961. Roofing - Will honor insurance companies’ proposals. 20 years experience. Call (913) 341-7584 (office) or (913) 206-4524 (cell). Woodbright - A very affordable alternative to refinishing, refacing or replacing stained cabinets and woodwork. The average kitchen only costs $500. 18 years experience. Call Woodbright at (913) 940-3020. House painting - Interior and exterior; wallpaper removal. 20 years experience. Reasonable rates. References. Call Joe at (913) 620-5776. Tim the Handyman - Insured; free estimates. Carpentry: new and repair deck, doors, windows, siding, screens. Plumbing: faucet, garbage disposals, toilets. Electrical: switches, outlets, ceiling fans, light fixtures. Light landscape: fill dirt, trimming, planting, garden tilling and mulching. Serving Johnson County. Call Tim at (913) 859-0471. EL SOL Y LA TIERRA *Commercial & residential * Lawn renovation * Mowing * Clean-up and hauling * Dirt grading/installation * Landscape design * Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!! Call Lupe at (816) 252-3376 STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Call for free estimates. Cell: (913) 579-1835; phone: (913) 491-5837; e-mail: smokeycabin@hot mail.com. Member of Holy Trinity Church, Lenexa.
THE LEAVEN • AUGUST 28, 2009 boxed & labeled; areas cleaned when finished! Wall repair, interior painting, tile work, handicap bars and ramps. Great references and insured. For pictures of current projects, view my Web site at: www. swalms.com. Call Tillar Swalm at (913) 375-9115.
available now! Give us a call or come visit to see what we have to offer for your child. We are located on the back side of the lower level of St. Agnes School, 5130 Mission Rd., Roeland Park. For information, contact Neona Russ at (913) 262-1689.
Electrician - Free estimates; reasonable rates. JoCo and southern KC metro area. Call Pat (913) 963-9896.
Nanny needed - Curé of Ars family is seeking a part-time nanny to care for our 2 small boys in our home. Mon/Tues. or Tues./Wed., from 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. If interested, call Gretchen at (913) 209-9115.
Real Estate Leawood home for sale - 3331 W. 92nd Terr. 4 BR, 2-1/2 BA, huge family room, beautiful hardwood floors and a large yard. Within walking distance of Curé of Ars Parish. Call David, ReMax Premier, at (816) 591-3186, or visit the Web site at: www.costellorealestate.com. Kansas land - Have land to sell? Contact us about our free listing service. Marisa Morgan Dallman, owner-broker, Kansas Land Brokers, LLC. Call (913) 915-9151 or visit the Web site at: www.KansasLandBrokers.com. Lake house – Beautiful and private Lake Kahola, less than 2 hours from the KC area. Only 10 miles off I-35 at Emporia exit. This home sleeps 10+ with a 2-car garage, plus a private boat ramp and dock. Located at the water’s edge on a quiet cove. Call Cy at (316) 262-0888.
For rent Shawnee condo - Conveniently located within walking distance of St. Joseph Parish near Johnson Dr. and Quivira. 2 BR, 2 BA. Includes washer/dryer, all major appliances, and carport. $750/mo. rent includes water and trash pickup. To view, call (913) 322-6494 or (816) 804-4343. Available immediately. Living at its best on a budget! - 1 BR apt., with rent based on income; all utilities paid; no voucher needed. Section 8 assistance. Great location, only 5-10 minutes from The Legends in Kansas City, Kan. Edwardsville Court Apartments Highrise, 531 S. 4th St., Edwardsville. Call (913) 441-6007. EHO. Handicap accessible.
Affordable housing in Rockford Hills - 8208 Troost. 1 and 2 BR, 1 BA. $450-550/month. Available units with central air, off-street parking and spacious rooms. Contact (816) 756-5002 or (816) 674-6176. Hablamos español. Beautiful, spacious apartments in Westside - 2 BR, 1 BA units. $600/month. This house has a beautiful porch and large bedrooms. Deposit is only $200. Contact (816) 756-5002 or (816) 674-6176. Hablamos español.
Vacation
Wanted to buy *** BUYING *** Coins — Sterling — Watches I buy coins, old watches, sterling silverware, postcards, photographs, military items, political campaign pins, Zippo lighters, fountain pens, toys, slot machines, old signs & tins, quilts, Indian rugs, beadwork, baskets, pottery and 22-gauge rifles. Call Chris at (913) 593-7507 or (913) 642-8269. Will buy firearms and related accessories - One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee.
*** Wanted to Buy *** Antique and vintage costume jewelry Member St. Joseph Parish Renee Maderak (913) 631-7179
For sale Residential lifts - Buy/sell/trade. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. Recycled and new equipment. Member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood. Call Silver Cross KC at (913) 393-2042.
For Sale – One burial plot at Mount Calvary Cemetery, Kansas City, Kan. $1400. For information, call (913) 724-1796. For sale – Single inside crypt in the Queen of Peace Chapel at Resurrection Cemetery, Lenexa. Corridor A; tier D. For information, call (816) 523-0984. Mount Olivet Cemetery, Kansas City, Mo. – True companion mausoleum for sale. Holy Redeemer wall; tier B. Beautiful location. Valued at $7000; asking $5500. Includes transfer fee. Call (816) 842-2883. For sale - Double-depth plot, including vaults, at the Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Kansas City, Kan. Priced under current value. Call Cyndy at (913) 548-2356.
Mountain cabin in Winter Park, Colo. – 2 BR, 1 BA. View of Continental Divide from deck. Close to points of interest and activities. $95/night. Call (913) 642-3027. Visit the Web site at: cabin.forcadeassociates.com.
Bulk mulch - $35 per cu. yd. delivered (within our delivery area with a 2-yard minimum order) OR $70 per cu. yd. delivered and spread. Contact Joe Keehn at (913) 631-7217 or (913) 449-9848 or visit the Web site at: www.mokanmulch. com.
Lake of the Ozarks rental - Osage Beach, million-dollar view, fully furnished; 2 BR, 2 BA; sleeps six. No smoking, no pets. For special rates, call Steve or Sheryl Roederer at (913) 244-2022.
Entertainment
Summer vacation - Winter Park, Colo. 2 BR, 1 BA, sleeps six. Fully furnished, fireplace, rec center w/pool, fishing, golf, hiking, rafting, close to nat’l park. $100/night; $600/week. Call Joe at (913) 385-5589. Vacation condo - Marco Island, Fla. 2 BR, 2 BA. Perfect weather! To view, visit the Web site at: www. marcocondoforrent.com, or call (913) 544-1288.
“Remember When” Oldies But Goodies Dance Party - Saturday, Sept. 12, at Finnigan’s (in the ballroom next to the AMF Pro Bowl), 503 E. 18th Ave., North Kansas City, Mo. Social hour begins at 7 p.m., followed by dancing from 8 - 11:30 p.m. Zepster will be the DJ at this dance, featuring music from the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s. $10 at the door; cash bar. For information, call (816) 292-2848 or visit the Web site at: www.zepster.com/dances.asp.
Child care Parent’s Day Out - Holy Trinity Early Education Center, Lenexa, has openings for 2-1/2-year-olds. The program is offered Tues., Wed., or Thurs., from 8:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. For information or to schedule a visit, call (913) 492-7380.
Day care available - Small, in-home day care has full-time openings for ages newborn to 3 years. Located near 123rd and State Line in Leawood. Over 18 years of experience and excellent references. Member of Nativity Parish. Call Carolyn at (913) 226-6913.
Organizing & handyman services - Basements, garages, attics and shop spaces organized! Your items sorted,
Attention, parents of 2- through 5-year-olds St. Agnes Child Care has full- and part-time openings
29
The archdiocesan education office and the Perfect Wings program will sponsor a eucharistic celebration for children with special needs and their families at 10 a.m. on Aug. 29 at Savior Pastoral Center, 12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kan. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann will be the celebrant. There will be a reception following Mass. For information, call the education office at (913) 721-1570. A concert for global peace — featuring recording artist and composer Nenad Bach and internationally recognized musicians from UMKC including Don Lipovac — will be held from 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. on Aug. 29 in the Rose Theater at Rockhurst High School, 9301 State Line Rd., Kansas City, Mo. Tickets may be purchased at the UMKC ticket box office. St. Joseph of the Valley and St. Lawrence parishes, Leavenworth, will host a family “Night at the Drive-in” on Aug. 29 on the lawn of St. Joseph of the Valley Church, 31151 207th St., following the 6:30 p.m. Mass. The featured movie will be “Night at the Museum.” Concessions will be available. A $10 donation for parking is appreciated. Bring lawn chairs and blankets. For information, call (913) 682-1285. A Virtus session taught in Spanish will be offered at 10 a.m. on Aug. 29 at All Saints Parish, 811 Vermont Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 371-8101, (913) 371-1837 or visit the Web site at: www.virtusonline.com.
30
The Knights of Columbus, Council No. 2332, Shawnee, will host their annual family summer picnic from noon until dark on Aug. 30 at their park, located at Shawnee Mission Pkwy. and Midland Drive. The public is invited to attend. There is no admission fee. Food, fun and a variety of drinks will be available for sale. For information, call (913) 248-8278.
31
The Irish Museum and Cultural Center, located in Union Station in Kansas City, Mo., will host its Irish classic golf tournament on Aug. 31 at The Deuce at the National Golf Club, 6415 N. National Dr., Kansas City, Mo. This 18-hole tournament will be a four-person scramble format. The entry fee includes green fees, cart, beer and soft drinks on the course, a box lunch and after-play appetizers! To participate or become a sponsor, contact The Irish Museum and Cultural Center at (816) 474-3848 or send an e-mail to: info@irish museum.org. The Center for Spirit at Work will host a career transition support group meeting from 6:30 - 8 p.m. on Aug. 31 at the Kauffman Foundation, 4801 Rockhill Rd., Kansas City, Mo.
Sept.
Montessori and child care - Our Lady’s Montessori serves children, ages 1 - 6 years old, in a beautiful environment. Conveniently located and affordable. For information, contact Sister Mediatrix at (913) 403-9550 or visit the Web site at: www.ourladysmontessori.com.
Custom-kitchen countertops - Laminate tops manufactured and installed within 5 days. Competitive prices, dependable work. St. Joseph Parish member. Call The Top Shop, Inc., at (816) 898-8685 or (913) 962-5058.
Aug.
1
To purchase a classified
Send an e-mail to: jennifer@the leaven.com, or call (913) 647-0327. The cost is $16 per column inch, five lines or less. Each additional line is $1.50. Classified ads will also be posted online at The Leaven’s Web site: www.theleaven.com.
A loss support group will meet from 3:30 - 5 p.m. on Sept. 1 and on every first Tuesday of the month at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/kwc.
4
The Johnson County Unos will hold their monthly meeting and potluck dinner at 6 p.m. on Sept. 5 at St. Pius X Church, 5601 Woodson, Mission. Bring meat casseroles, salads, vegetables or desserts — enough to feed 8 — or $5 to pay for your meal. Entertainment will follow.
entrance, parish hall and early learning center at 4 p.m. on Sept. 13. Refreshments and social time will follow.
10
The Holy Women series for September will feature Elizabeth Ann Seton — wife, mother, widow, single parent, educator, social minister, spiritual leader, and first saint born in the United States — on Sept. 10 from 1 - 3 p.m. at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/kwc.
12
“Bow Ties for Babies Gala,” a benefit for Alexandra’s House, a charitable perinatal hospice for terminally ill unborn, newborn and abandoned babies, will be held on Sept. 12 at the downtown Kansas City Marriott Hotel. For information, call (816) 931-5378 or send an e-mail to: alexandrashouse@mac.com. “Halfway to St. Patrick’s Day,” an auction and fundraiser to benefit the Colleen Conway Holloway scholarship fund at Notre Dame de Sion, will be held from 6 - 11 p.m. on Sept. 12 in the high school gymnasium. For information or tickets, call (816) 942-3282. Queen of the Holy Rosary - Wea Parish, 227th and Metcalf, Bucyrus, will host “Anchor’s A-Wea,” a nautical-themed auction, beginning at 5 p.m. on Sept. 12. Tickets cost $25 per person; $200 for a table of eight. For information or to order tickets, visit the Web site at: www.hr auction.org. The Immaculata Booster Club will host a steak or hamburger dinner from 5:30 - 8 p.m. on Sept. 12 at the Knights of Columbus Hall, Leavenworth. The cost is $20 for steak; $10 for hamburger. Tickets must be purchased in advance from the development office, 320 Broadway; at Immaculata High School, 600 Shawnee; or you may call Lisa at (913) 683-3934.
12-13
Mother Teresa of Calcutta Church, 2014 N.W. 46th St., Topeka, will host its annual Holy Smokin’ Jamboree on the parish grounds during the weekend of Sept. 12-13. There will be a 5K run/walk, a pancake feed, car show, bingo, concessions, family games, sports tournaments, a raffle, a silent auction and a barbecue dinner (Sunday only). For information, contact the parish office at (785) 286-2188.
13
Church of the Holy Cross, 8311 W. 93rd St., Overland Park, will celebrate its feast day on Sept. 13 with Mass at 11 a.m., followed by a parish festival featuring ethnic foods, carnival games, children’s crafts, inflatables and bingo. For information, contact the parish office at (913) 3812755. All are invited to join St. Matthew Parish, 2700 S.E. Virginia Ave., Topeka, along with Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann for the dedication and blessing of the new grand
entitled, “Living Free: Re-enter and Restart,” will be held from 1 - 2 p.m. on Mondays at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/ kwc. Were you injured while on active duty in the military? Do you have combat-related nightmares or are you bothered by memories of combat? A “veterans helping veterans” support group is forming in this area. If you are in need of help, or are available to help, call John at (913) 909-3368.
6
Sts. Peter and Paul Parish, 411 Pioneer St., Seneca, will host a parish picnic on Sept. 6. A roast beef and ham dinner will be served, beginning at 4:30 p.m. in the new parish hall. The cost is $7 for adults; $4 for children. Carryout meals will be available. Bingo, concessions, games, a beer garden, and a teen dance will follow dinner. A live auction will begin at 8:30 p.m.
CALENDAR 13
St. Joseph Parish, 705 Spring Garden, Atchison, will host a brisket dinner and bazaar on Sept. 13 from 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. The cost is $8 for adults; $3.50 for children. There will also be craft booths, bingo children’s games and more. For carryout dinners or delivery, call (913) 367-4535.
15
A caregiver’s support group, designed to assist women who are providing oversight or care for senior citizens or loved ones with disabilities, will meet from 6:30 - 8 p.m. on Sept. 15 and every third Tuesday of the month at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/kwc.
16
A program for women who are looking for an entry-level job, entitled “Would You Hire You?,” will be held from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Sept. 16 (lunch included) at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/kwc. Reservations are required.
25-27
Enrich you life, enrich your love, and enrich your marriage by spending time with your spouse and learning the tools to a great marriage! The next Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekend will be held from Sept. 25-27. For information or to register, call (913) 469-8453 in the Kansas City metro area, (785) 843-9274 in Lawrence, (785) 357-5000 in Topeka, or visit the Web site at: www.neksme.org.
Misc. Bishop Lillis High School, Kansas City, Mo., is planning a 50th reunion for the class of 1959. For information, contact Baldy Darnay at (816) 640-9978 or send an e-mail to him at: mdarnay@kc.rr.com. Hayden High School, Topeka, will host a 45-year reunion for the class of 1964 on Oct. 10 at the Shawnee Country Club. For information, contact Marilyn (Harkin) Heideman at (785) 286-1300 or via e-mail to: gmheide@cox.net; or Bob and Terry (Brame) Bryan at (785) 246-2363 or via e-mail to: gograni@aol.com. The Ladies Guild at St. Joseph Church, 11311 Johnson Dr., Shawnee, is seeking vendors for its gift and craft bazaar to be held on Oct. 24 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tables cost $30 each; $35 if electricity is needed. There are 50 tables available, so reserve early. For information, contact Shannon Foley at (913) 302-8505, or send an e-mail to: shannon@adafundraising. com; or contact Connie Davidson at (913) 631-7757, or send an e-mail to: abuabu7@ aol.com. A weekly support group for women who have been released from incarceration
Join us this fall for an interparish Catholic Women’s Bible Study of salvation history from Adam to Jesus, the Book of James and the study of Christ’s passion. Women of all ages are welcome to study God’s word together and enjoy fellowship about how God’s word impacts your life. Children are welcome to attend. While the women are studying God’s word, children ages 3-12 will be taught the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program. Children younger than 3 years old can either accompany their mothers in a Moms study group or stay in our nursery. The groups will meet on Thursday mornings from 9:30 - 11 a.m. for 26 weeks, beginning Sept. 10, at Holy Trinity Church, 9150 Pflumm Rd., Lenexa. For information or to register, contact Laura Haeusser at (913) 341-9057; or Kathryn Burditt at (913) 451-3680 or, via e-mail, at: tkburditt@hotmail.com. For those struggling with an addiction to pornography, Sam Meier, MA, LPC, provides counseling and men’s groups for sexual integrity. Call (913) 647-0378, or send an e-mail to: mhmg@archkck.org. Women, contact Beth Meier for information on groups for spouses and loved ones at (913) 647-0379, or send an e-mail to: bmeier@archkck.org. Support is confidential and from a Catholic perspective. To listen to live testimonials, visit the Web site at; www.archkck.org/myhouse. The Knights of Columbus, Our Lady of Peace Council No. 9856 at Curé of Ars Parish, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood, will host its second annual golf outing on Oct. 19 at St. Andrew’s Golf Course, 11099 W. 135th St., Overland Park. Registration begins at 12:30 p.m. followed by a 1:30 p.m. tee-off. The cost is $100 per person. The entry deadline is Oct. 2 and there are only 72 spots available, so register early by visiting the Web site at: www.kofccureofars. org. For information, call Bill Carlsen at (913) 207-7326 or send an e-mail to him at: bill.s.carlsen@sprint.com. A cancer prayer group gathers every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at Curé of Ars Church, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood. For information, call Ginger at (816) 942-8850. The Singles of Nativity will gather for round-robin-style tennis beginning at 6 p.m. at the Indian Creek Recreational Center, 103rd St. and Marty, Overland Park, on Sundays throughout the summer. Beginners are welcome; there is room for everyone. We may go out for a light dinner afterwards, because the idea is to share friendship. For information, send an e-mail to Nancy Driscoll at: ndriscoll1@kc.rr.com.
Calendar items must be received nine days before the publication date. E-mail submissions are preferred; send to: jennifer@the leaven. com. Calendar submissions can also be mailed to 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, attn: calendar. Submissions will not be taken over the phone.
14 COMMENTARY
THE LEAVEN • august 28, 2009
Mark my words
Quote Week
of the
“Let’s start by honestly recognizing that the spirit of capitalism doesn’t agree with that of the Gospel. The heart of Christianity is love for others. The nucleus of capitalism, rather, is competition, which is the opposite of love.”
Thomas Han Hong-soon of the Vatican Prefecture for Economic Affairs
Scripture Readings TWENTy-second WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Aug. 30 Twenty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time Dt 4: 1-2, 6-8; Ps 15: 2-5; Jas 1: 17-18, 21b-22, 27; Mk 7: 1-8, 14-15, 21-23 Aug. 31 Monday 1 Thes 4: 13-18; Ps 96: 1, 3-5, 11-13; Lk 4: 16-30 Sept. 1 Tuesday 1 Thes 5: 1-6, 9-11; Ps 27: 1, 4, 13-14; Lk 4: 31-37
U
h-oh. This can’t be good. As you know, we’re still on our every other week, “relaxed” summer schedule here at The Leaven. It’s the time when the staff tries to renew itself, plan, learn new things, go on vacation. It’s the season when we gather up steam to face weeklies once again.
Now, I can’t speak for the other folks on the staff, but I’m in a heap of trouble. Not only has the summer flown by, but we had a grueling deadline a couple of weeks ago that I had no desire to repeat. And we didn’t with this issue’s deadline: We outdid ourselves — this one was worse! One person was out for a family emergency, another had strep throat, a third had to leave for a while to tend to a seriously ill pet. Oh, did I mention that we just switched to a new computer program to produce the paper? And because the most knowledgeable person about it was out of the office, that meant I became the “go to” person for questions, problems, etc. In short, the word of this deadline day was: stress. And I don’t wear it well. It’s scary how stuff that I preach
Sept. 4 Friday Col 1: 15-20; Ps 100: 1-5; Lk 5: 33-39 Sept. 5 Saturday Col 1: 21-23; Ps 54: 3-4, 6-8; Lk 6: 1-5 TWENTY-THIRD WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME Sept. 6 TWENTY-THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Is 35: 4-7a; Ps 146: 7-10; Jas 2: 1-5; Mk 7: 31-37 Sept. 7 Monday Col 1:24 — 2:3; Ps 62: 6-7, 9; Lk 6: 6-11 Sept. 8 THE NATIVITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY Mic 5: 1-4a; Ps 13: 6; Mt 1: 1-16, 18-23 Sept. 9 Peter Claver, priest Col 3: 1-11; Ps 145: 2-3, 10-13; Lk 6: 20-26 Sept. 10 Thursday Col 3: 12-17: Ps 150: 1-6; Lk 6: 27-38 Sept. 11 Friday 1 Tm 1: 1-2, 12-14; Ps 16: 1-2, 5, 7-8, 11; Lk 6: 39-42 Sept. 12 The Most Holy Name of the Blessed Virgin Mary 1 Tm 1: 15-17; Ps 113: 1-7; Lk 6: 43-49
about always seems to come back to haunt me. A couple of weeks ago, I told my parishioners about a workshop presenter who was explaining stress. He held up a glass of water and asked, “How heavy is this?” The audience shouted out a variety of responses. The presenter then said, “The absolute weight doesn’t matter. It depends on how long you try to hold the glass. If I hold it for a minute, no problem. If I hold it for an hour, I’ll have an ache in my right arm. If I hold it for a day, call 911! In each case, the weight is the same; the longer I hold it, though, the heavier it becomes.” “That’s the way it is with stress,” he continued. “If we carry our burden all the time, day in and day out, it becomes increasingly heavy and we won’t be able to keep going. “As with the glass of water, the secret is to put it down for a while and rest before picking it up again. When we’re refreshed, we can carry on with the burden.” (Adapted from an e-mail recently sent to me.) Amen to that! The e-mail also included other suggestions for dealing with life’s stress and burdens: • Always keep your words soft and sweet, just in case you have to eat them.
• Drive carefully. It’s not only cars that can be recalled by their maker. • Never put both feet in your mouth at the same time, because then you won’t have a leg to stand on. • When everything’s coming your way, you’re in the wrong lane. • Eat desserts! That’s actually “stressed” spelled backwards; doing so may reverse the course of your day! • A truly happy person is one who can enjoy the scenery on a detour. I’d add a couple more ways to lessen stress: Ask for help with the burden . . . and pray. I sent out an e-mail to a close friend, detailing all the stresses of this deadline. A reply came back quickly: “Take deep breaths. Don’t let today pass you by by being stressed. It’s a beautiful day! You should run out and have an enjoyable lunch!” (I followed this advice and darn if it didn’t help.) Prayer, too, is an effective de-stressor. I invited parishioners a couple of Sundays ago to remember to lay their burdens on the altar — into the hands of Jesus — every time they come to Mass. For at least that hour, set the burden down. You can pick it up again on your way out of church, but it won’t be the same burden: Jesus will have touched it and given you new insight into how to deal with it, more strength to carry it, or the courage to accept it. Happily, you don’t have to wait for a Sunday to pray. Any stressful time is a perfect time to call on the Lord’s help. Well, folks, I’m grateful to put this issue to bed. It’s nice to lay this burden down and rest . . . at least for two more weeks until that next deadline comes around!
the gospel truth
Sept. 2 Wednesday Col 1: 1-8; Ps 52: 10-11; Lk 4: 38-44 Sept. 3 Gregory the Great, pope, doctor of the church Col 1: 9-14; Ps 98: 2-6; Lk 5: 1-11
A lesson on how to lessen stress
P
Jesus asks us to cleanse hearts as well as hands
ublic health officials encourage hand washing as one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of the swine flu. That doesn’t surthings that come out from within are prise us. We have known what defile.” This statement maintains that ritual impurity also does not about the role of germs matter when it comes to food. Jesus in spreading disease for a is giving the go-ahead for foods that traditionally have been conlong time. Twenty-second Sunday sidered unclean.
On the other hand, at the in Ordinary Time The issue of whether certime of Christ, no one knew Mk 7: 1-8, 14-15, 21-23 tain foods should be considanything about such matered unclean enjoyed a great ters. Sickness was believed deal of attention in early Christianity. to result from evil spirits. Hygiene was The apostle Peter received a vision unknown. which gave him guidance regarding But at least some Jews practiced that controversy: “I observed and saw hand washing for religious reasons. the four-legged animals of the earth, It served a symbolic purpose, much the wild beasts, the reptiles, and the like Catholics dipping their fingers in birds of the sky. I also heard a voice the holy water font upon entering a say to me,’Get up, Peter. Slaughter and church. eat.’ But I said, ‘Certainly not, sir, beThat is the practice which Jesus is cause nothing profane or unclean has examining in Sunday’s Gospel reading, ever entered my mouth.’ But a second Mk 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23. He criticizes time a voice from heaven answered, people for observing the practice in a ‘What God has made clean, you are not superficial manner — for putting too to call profane’” (Acts 11:6-9). much emphasis upon externals; for The decision by early Christians to cleansing their hands, but not their not observe kosher, to eat foods clashearts. sified as unclean by the Law of Moses, He goes on to make a radical statecontributed to the division between the ment: “Nothing that enters one from Christians and the Jews. They could outside can defile that person; but the
not eat together. They could not socialize. They drifted apart. Jesus’ words in the Gospel reading anticipate this stance of the early Christians: “Nothing that enters one from outside can defile that person.” At the same time, nothing in the Gospel text suggests that Jesus himself disregarded the prohibition against unclean foods — that he himself ever ate them. If he had, he would have surely encountered criticism from his opponents, just as he did for breaking the Sabbath. But no such criticism concerning unclean foods ever occurs in the Gospels. In fact, the criticism concerning a lack of hand washing in Sunday’s Gospel reading is directed against some of Jesus’ disciples, not against Jesus himself: “When the Pharisees with some scribes who had come from Jerusalem gathered around Jesus, they observed that some of his disciples ate their meals with unclean, that is, unwashed hands. . . . So the Pharisees and scribes questioned him: ‘Why do your disciples not follow the tradition of the elders but instead eat a meal with unclean hands?’” Evidently, Jesus himself was observing the Law of Moses and following tradition. At the same time, his words and his teachings lay the ground for his disciples to do otherwise. Father Mike Stubbs is pastor of St. Francis de Sales Parish in Lansing and has a degree in Scripture from Harvard University.
16 LOCAL NEWS
THE LEAVEN • August 28, 2009
Toasted and roasted
Msgr. Tank and Msgr. McGlinn honored for archdiocesan ministry By JOE BOLLIG Leaven staff
KANSAS CITY, Kan. — It was an evening of laughter, song, appreciation, and a great truth: Behind every successful archbishop is a hard-working vicar general — and in some cases, two. An appreciation dinner was held the evening of Aug. 12 at Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kan., for Msgr. Thomas Tank and Msgr. Charles McGlinn, who served as vicars general of the archdiocese since 1996. As of July, the two monsignors stepped down from their duties to return to full-time pastoral work. The evening began with vespers in the pastoral center chapel, followed by a dinner, where the honorees were heartily toasted and gently roasted by a series of speakers, who offered tributes and fond remembrances. “This is a night to show our affection and esteem for two truly great priests,” said Michael Podrebarac, archdiocesan liturgist and archivist, who was master of ceremonies. Msgr. Tank was named vicar general for administration in 1996 and served as chancellor from 1997 to 2008, but those appointments followed on the heels of various assignments in archdiocesan administration for the last 40 years. As vicar general and chancellor, Msgr. Tank was directly responsible for oversight of the pastoral ministries and services of the archdiocese. He also headed up several special projects and served on various boards and committees, while still serving as a full-time pastor. He is currently assigned to Church of the Ascension in Overland Park. Msgr. McGlinn became vicar general for priests of the archdiocese in 1996, while also serving as a pastor. He, too, served in various capacities on the archdiocesan level, as well as for special projects and on boards and committees. He is the longtime pastor of Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood. In addition to working closely together in their administrative capacities, the two monsignors are lifelong friends and are quick to point out each other’s accomplishments. “[Msgr. Tank] has had some remarkable achievements,” said Msgr. McGlinn. “If not for him, we would not have Prairie Star Ranch. He is almost single-handedly responsible for that coming about, and Santa Marta [retirement community in Johnson County]. There were so many things he’s done with housing in Wyandotte County, that they’re too numerous to mention.” Msgr. Tank, in turn, found much to admire in Msgr. McGlinn. “Really, [Msgr. McGlinn] has had the toughest job, because he has had to assist in some very difficult times in our history — not only in the archdiocese but in the United States,” said Msgr.
Tank. “He’s had a difficult and challenging job, and he took to it with such dedication and commitment.” In his remarks during the dinner, consultant for evangelization and Catholic formation Dana Nearmyer remembered how he “walked into [Msgr. Tank’s] church as a wayfaring evangelical preacher with a number of questions I thought were unanswerable, and he answered every one of them.” He went on to say that Msgr. McGlinn is famous for welcoming foreign priests not only into the archdiocese, but also into his home — so much so, that Nearmyer called the guest house at Curé of Ars the “Ellis Island of Johnson County.” The two men, said Nearmyer, did many tiny things that touched people’s lives. But they did giant things, too. “You’re both silent foot washers, both extraordinary preachers, but most of your work has been done in silence,” he said. As the two monsignors reveled in their “demotion” to simple pastors — albeit of very large parishes — Abbot Barnabas Senecal, OSB, of St. Benedict’s Abbey in Atchison said that “neither wanted to be called monsignor, neither of them complained about their workload, and neither of them appear to be sad today.” It was not only their co-workers at the chancery who held them in high esteem, however. Church of the Nativity in Leawood parishioner Tom Creal recalled that as he faced career challenges, Msgr. Tank’s friendship was honest, supportive and unwavering. St. Michael the Archangel in Leawood parishioner Brent Blake called Msgr. Tank “one of the smartest business persons I’ve ever met.”
M-F 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. | Summer Months: Sat. 10 a.m to 3 p.m.
Msgr. Charles McGlinn (above) demonstrated his delight with a speaker’s comment during the appreciation dinner held for him and Msgr. Thomas Tank on Aug. 12 at Savior Pastoral Center. Later, both honorees had an opportunity to offer additional remarks — and rebuttals. The evening closed with Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann and Father Gary Pennings giving gifts to each of the monsignors.
Msgr. Michael Mullen, pastor of St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kan., noted that the dinner also marked the occasion of the 42nd anniversary of the two monsignors’ ordinations. He marveled at their zeal and hard work . . . and the legacy they produced. “When you and I come to thank God for the spirit of our archdiocese — for its growth, for its vitality, and for its sense of unity,” he said, “we do not hesitate to say the beauty, and compassion, and outreach of our archdiocesan church stands in a significant and lasting relationship to your leadership. Monsignor Tank and Monsignor McGlinn, we can’t thank you enough.” Father John Torrez, pastor of St. Paul Parish in Olathe, remembered how Msgr. Tank built up his faith and confidence when he was a young priest. Father Anthony Putti, pastor of St. Gregory Parish in Marysville and St. Malachy Parish in Beattie, recalled how Msgr. McGlinn took him, as a young priest from India, under his wing — and taught him how not to ruin a load of laundry with bleach. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann spoke of his gratitude for the two monsignors, the “incredible generosity” of
their service, and the quality of their leadership. “This is a great beginning of ‘The Year of the Priest’ and an opportunity to step back and appreciate the priesthood of these two great priests and their great contribution to the archdiocese,” said the archbishop. “So again, Charlie and Tom, thank you for letting us to have this night. . . . It’s been a very enjoyable and inspirational night, but only because you’ve given us the material for laughter and the material for being inspired.” At the conclusion of the dinner, Archbishop Naumann and Father Gary Pennings, vicar general/moderator of the curia, presented gifts to the two monsignors. The gifts — fraught with meaning on several levels — were bookends in the style of bridges: two gifts to two of a kind, who worked in concert and connected pastors and archbishops, parishes and the archdiocese, and laity with their pastors.