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WWW.THELEAVEN.COM | NEWSPAPER OF THE ARCHDIOCESE OF KANSAS CITY IN KANSAS | VOL. 30, NO. 21 JANUARY 16, 2009

Taking young Catholics to new heights Camp registration just around the corner Catholic outdoor adventure camp located in Williamsburg last summer. Kids and families who can’t wait that long also have the chance to experience KANSAS CITY, Kan. — On Jan. 30, Camp Tekakwitha a little bit earlier than kids and parents alike will be thinkwith the release of a camp CD last usual, ing one thing: summer. month. Though hard to picture now “The singing at camp has been transforin the midst of a cold Kansas mational for so many people, we wanted winter, sessions of Camp people to have access to it all year long,” Tekakwitha are just a few said Dana Nearmyer, archdiocesan coordishort months away, nator of evangelization and Catholic forwith registration bemation. ginning at the end CDs are available through the archof January. More than 1700 diocesan youth office, complete with songs recorded from two camp sessions during campers exp e r i e n c e d the summer of 2008. Nearmyer said that, for years, people t h e had asked for CDs with camp music on it — simple praise and worship songs sung by camp music director Joe Peterson and the kids. But the full, busy days at Camp Tekakwitha did not lend themselves to the amount of planning and organization required to record a CD. Enter Father Kent O’Connor, who got the project moving from concept to reality. “Each time I visited camp, I was really impressed with the way the kids sing there,” said Father O’Connor. “They have such energy and prayerfulness, and it’s a big part of the experience kids hold onto for the rest of the year.” Leawood’s Curé of Ars parishioner Mark Fortino Camp Kateri Tekakwitha Schedule co-produced the CD with Camp Kateri Camp Tekakwitha Sr. High Father Campers entering 5th/6th grade Campers entering 9th- 12th grade in fall of 2009 only in fall 2009

By KARA HANSEN Leaven staff

Session Session 1 Session 2 Session 3 Session 4 Session 5

Date June 15-17 June 18-20 June 28-30 July 6-8 July 27-29

Cost $230 $230 $230 $230 $230

June 1-6 $380 July 31-Aug. 8 $430 Camp Tekakwitha Jr. High Campers entering 7th/8th grade in fall 2009 Session 1 Session 2 Session 3 Session 4

Family Camp Campers of all ages and family status July 10-12

June 8-13 June 22-27 July 13-18 July 20-25

$370 $370 $370 $370

$125 each

See how a Lawrence woman helped change the life of one man and an entire church community in Tanzania.

It happens every year: Parents get busy and miss the all-important registration deadlines for camp. That leaves their youngsters either squeezed out of camp entirely, or at least out of the session their friends are attending. So, parents, take note. Camp registration begins on Jan. 30 for campers entering 7th through 12th grades this fall. Registration for campers entering fifth or sixth grades in the fall begins on Feb. 6. Online registration begins at 9 a.m. each of those mornings. Although the registration link will not be available until Jan. 30, parents are encouraged to log onto the site and become members well before registrations open; doing so will allow them to receive updated camp information and confirmation of their transaction via e-mail. Mail-in registrations should be postmarked no earlier than the first date of registration for the respective session. If you have questions regarding camp registration, download a Camp Registration Packet from the youth ministry Web page at: www.archkck. org, or send an e-mail to Jennifer at: jenniferarchkck@sunflower.com.

O’Connor, providing the recording equipment and microphones. The recordings were made in the course of a typical day at camp, while campers came in and out of receiving the sacrament of reconciliation. “There had to be some control for noise with kids getting up to go in and out of the confessional, but the music was recorded when they would normally be singing with the same songs that are usually sung,” said Father O’Connor. The CD features 13 tracks, including well-known praise and worship songs such as “Open The Heart of My Eyes, Lord,” “Here I Am To Worship,” and “Your Grace Is Enough.” “The CD is designed to be a singalong,” said Nearmyer. “It’s a completely raw outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The Turn to CD HELPS on page 6

DO YOU KNOW THIS MAN?

3 A MOTHER’S LOVE

Camp registration begins on Jan. 30

SOMETHING’S COOKING Daughters of Isabella find recipe to success in potluck cookbook.

8-9

Help us complete our article on Father Richard Storey. But keep it short and send it to: anita@theleaven.com.

ARCHBISHOP THE LEAVEN • JANUARY 16, 2009

Women religious give heroic witness to risen Christ

ast week, I wrote about the importance of the charism of religious Sisters in the life of the church and in particular in the life of the Archdiocese. I reflected on the extraordinary contribution these heroic women of faith and love have had upon the history of the church in northeast Kansas. Without the leadership and heroic service of religious Sisters, neither the parochial schools nor the Catholic health care system would have been possible. Yet, as important as these educational and healing ministries are, they are not the primary reason why religious Sisters are so important to the life of the church. Even more important than these crucial ministries is the witness of religious Sisters to the truth of the risen Jesus and his Gospel. The free choice of consecrated religious women to embrace the vows of poverty, celibate chastity and obedience only makes sense if the dying and rising of Jesus are true. Religious Sisters espouse themselves to Jesus. They stake their whole life on the truth of their Spouse dying on Calvary to redeem our sins and vanquishing death on Easter morning. When I came to the Archdiocese in 2004, Archbishop Keleher asked me to invite the Sisters of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George to send some Sisters to serve on the staff of St. James Academy in Lenexa that was scheduled to open its doors in the fall of 2005. Fortunately, Mother Regina Pacis, their provincial superior, and her council responded favorably to my invitation. The students of St. James Academy

have been very fortunate to have three young religious Sisters serving on their faculty for the past four years. While it is true that others could have been hired to teach the math, Spanish or even theology classes taught by the Sisters, no one else could give to the students of St. James Academy the powerful daily witness of complete trust in Jesus and his Gospel that is the fruit of the radical faith of consecrated religious women. Before I arrived in the Archdiocese, Msgr. Vincent Krische, with the approval and encouragement of Archbishop Keleher, was able to attract a new religious community, the Apostles of the Interior Life, to serve the students at the St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center at the University of Kansas in Lawrence. The Apostles of the Interior Life are specially trained and skilled in spiritual direction. St. Lawrence Center, because of the Sisters’ presence, is able to offer students, in addition to the opportunity for intellectual formation in their Catholic faith, the chance to develop a rich, personal prayer life, as well as a mature love for the sacramental life of the church. However, the most important gift the Apostles give to the students is not their competence as spiritual directors, but the joyful witness of their lives totally surrendered to the Lord Jesus. In May 2008, a new community from France, the Little Sisters of the Lamb,

came to our Archdiocese. Their convent is the former rectory for what was St. Benedict’s Church in Kansas City, Kan. Presently, we are blessed to have six Sisters — three of whom are natives of France, one from Austria, one from Luxembourg and one from Spain. The particular charism of the Little Sisters of the Lamb is to live very simply with a rather strict observance of the vow of poverty. They are a Dominican community that is striving to reemphasize part of the original charism of Dominicans — mendicancy. They humbly beg for their sustenance. In the process of humbly asking others to help them in their need, they share the truth and beauty of the Gospel of Jesus. In order to be able to live this radical life of poverty and simplicity, they rely upon a very well-developed life of communal prayer. The Little Sisters sing like angels and spend a significant portion of each day in prayer together before the Blessed Sacrament. They radiate a beautiful and authentic joy which they accept as a precious gift from Jesus to whom they have given their hearts. The following paragraphs are excerpts from the Christmas letter that the Little Sisters of the Lamb sent to their growing group of friends in Kansas. It illustrates not just the fruitfulness of the ministry of the Little Sisters of the Lamb, but the way in which the Lord works so beautifully and powerfully through consecrated religious women: “Christmas drawing near, our hearts are filled with thanksgiving for so much Goodness received since our arrival on American soil. “‘Emmanuel — God with us,’ we experience it on a daily basis in getting settled in a new country, learning the language, fixing our ‘home,’ translating the liturgy, doing all the necessary

paperwork in view of building our ‘little monastery of the lamb’ as well as living our mission of announcing the Gospel either at home or on the way… “— in a school, after the testimony of a Little Sister, a ten-year-old child came up to her: ‘While you were speaking, God touched my heart!’ “— at the doctor’s, a woman is moved to tears at seeing a Little Sister in the waiting room: ‘I knew that I would meet you. I needed to be comforted and here you are. God is with me.’ “— in the street a man calls us: ‘Are you nuns? . . . Could you pray for me? I might go to jail this afternoon.’ And there, on the sidewalk, we pray together: ‘Our Father, who art in heaven . . .,’ grant our friend peace. “— at a door where we had begged for some food, a little boy hands us over the bag full of groceries his mother had prepared: ‘I give it with all my heart!’ “‘God is with you,’ ‘God is among us.’ We pray to the Lord that each one of you might make this experience all along the coming new year, in joys as well as in trials, for this is truly what Christmas is. “We entrust ourselves to your prayer that we may live from Christ’s light and may share it with each person we meet.” Our Archdiocese has been blessed throughout its 150-plus-year history and continues to be blessed by the heroic witness of religious Sisters. Let us pray for all those who serve the church so beautifully and unselfishly as consecrated religious. May they always experience joy in the daily gift of their life to Jesus and his church and may their numbers grow!

St. Matilda now boasts a full house for Mass.

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Parishioners of St. Matilda in Mwangaza, Tanzania, load a wagon with some of the 20,000 bricks they literally made themselves for their new church.

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS

SECOND FRONT PAGE 3 ▲

THE LEAVEN • JANUARY 16, 2009 ▲

The new church that was built in Mwangaza replaced an openair structure .

‘A priest in the family’ By JANE GRAVES Special to The Leaven LAWRENCE — It was like a scene out of an old-time movie. When Lawrence’s Corpus Christi parishioner Matilda Petesch first learned in 1996 that she was going to get to meet, in person, the Tanzanian priest she has sponsored since his seminary days, her instructions to him were very simple. “I told him to be sure he wore his Roman collar, his black suit, and so forth, and I would wear a corsage,” said Petesch. “And when he got off the plane, I knew immediately it was him. He looked at me and smiled and came toward me, and I knew that that was Father Damas. It was wonderful, really.” Petesch, who has no children, has sponsored the ministry of Father Damas Chale of Songea, Tanzania, East Africa, for the past 26 years. It started when Petesch and her husband Elmer, who died in 1989, decided to provide financial support for a seminarian. Through the Benedictine Mission House — a ministry that assists missionary priests, Brothers, and Sisters working in various parts of the world — they were matched with Father Chale. For the longest time, however, the support was anonymous. “I didn’t know who was paying for my studies until I was ordained . . . in 1988,” said Father Chale. “My bishop revealed the secret by [telling] me to say a Mass of thanksgiving and write a letter to Elmer and Matilda Petesch.” The young priest and Petesch then began corresponding by mail, but were unable to meet in person until eight years later when Father Chale completed postgraduate studies in Rome and traveled to the United States before returning to Tanzania. “It was a very joyful day,” Father Chale said of the meeting. Although it was wonderful to meet in person, said Petesch, it was sometime during the course of their long correspondence that the sponsorship developed into a friendship and their salutations grew more familiar. Father Chale, whose parents are deceased, began addressing Petesch as “mother”; Petesch, in turn, began to think of the young priest almost like an “adopted son.” The relationship has become more typical than one might think. “He’s like a son — whenever he needs something, he comes to me,” she said with a laugh. In turn, Petesch relies on Father Chale as well. “He’s really a caring person,” she said, “and whenever I need something, all I have to do is mention it in my letter and he, in return, immediately says, ‘I’m remembering you in my prayers and I said a Mass for you today.’ “That’s pretty comforting.” Father Chale said that the spiritual

Leaven photo by Jane Graves

Tanzanian priest Father Damas Chale shows Matilda (Tillie) Petesch pictures of the new church, constructed by his parishioners and named St. Matilda Church in her honor. Petesch, a member of Corpus Christi Parish in Lawrence, has sponsored Father Chale since 1982. and financial support Petesch has provided has been critical to his ministry. His Tanzanian parish includes seven outstations and 12,000 parishioners; most are self-sustenance farmers. Of those that are able to bring home an income, most earn less than $100 a month. Because of this poverty, it would be very difficult, Father Chale said, to accomplish his work without Petesch’s support. “What I get from her helps me also with my food for the parish,” he said. “It helps me also for the fuel for going to the outstations; it helps me with my health. “If I get sick, I also go to the hospital by using this, with the help which she gives. Even spiritually, when she writes to me and I write to her, it gives me also the spiritual courage to continue to do my work.” Mwangaza, for example, is one of the outstations assigned to Father Chale. It was holding services in an open-air structure with a grass roof. “Father [Chale] thought they were entitled to a better place to offer up the holy sacrifice of the Mass,” explained Petesch, “and with his encouragement, the parishioners began making the 20,000 bricks needed for the church out of available clay soil, which were then burned to harden, and in 2005 began building their church.” The structure needed a roof before the start of the rainy season in Tanzania, however. And a roof required lumber and the money to purchase it, both of which were in short supply at Father

Chale’s parish. “The people of this community [in Mwangaza] are very poor people,” Petesch explained. “They are so willing to give their time and their labor for their future church, but have no cash to contribute.” So Petesch paid for Father Chale to return to Lawrence in 2006 so he could speak at Masses at Most Pure Heart of Mary in Topeka. The financial support from those parishioners, along with Petesch’s own donations, was enough to pay for the roof. When the church needed a name, Father Chale didn’t hesitate. He proposed calling it St. Matilda, as a way to honor and thank Petesch and to make permanent the memory of her support, should he eventually be reassigned. “When he mentioned it, I was real surprised,” said Petesch. She decided to learn a bit more about St. Matilda before responding to Father Chale’s proposal and found that the saint was noted for the building of three convents and a monastery. “When he asked my permission, I said, ‘Well, I don’t really feel like I deserve such an honor as to have a church named after my patron saint, but I’m sure that she would be real happy,’” she said. Petesch said it’s a wonderful feeling knowing that she has helped the parishioners of St. Matilda in this way. “What better thing can we do in this

St. Matilda Church in Mwangaza was blessed and dedicated by Archbishop Norbert Wendelin Mtega on Aug. 2, 2008. The parishioners have weekly services of prayers and hymns and celebrate Mass once a month when Father Chale visits. Petesch is helping Father Chale collect donations for benches for the new church. At present, parishioners sit on logs, stand, or bring benches from their homes. A fund has been set up to support Father Chale in his missionary work. Those interested in contributing should make checks out to the Father Damas Chale Fund and send them to US Bank, FBO; Father Damas Chale Fund; 800 S.W. Jackson; Topeka, KS 66612. life but to build a church where a lot of people come to worship and honor our Lord and offer up the holy sacrifice of the Mass?” she asked. “I don’t know of anything that you can do that is much better.” Petesch takes a mother’s pride in her adopted son’s accomplishments and in the fine impression he made on local Catholics in a more recent visit back to Lawrence. “Everybody that meets him makes the remark [that] he is such a nice person,” she said, “and he is. He is really a kind and thoughtful person. “I certainly feel blessed to have, as you might say, a priest in my family.”

4 LOCAL NEWS THE LEAVEN • JANUARY 16, 2009

THE LEAVEN • JANUARY 16, 2009

LOCAL NEWS

Pro-lifers energized for Jan. 22 observances By JOE BOLLIG Leaven staff

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann prays before the Blessed Sacrament in the new Holy Trinity adoration chapel. Until the new chapel was built, the adoration chapel and the cry room at the Lenexa parish were one and the same.

▼ CHANGEOVER Archbishop Naumann leads the procession out of the old chapel and into the new. Leaven photos by Jill Ragar Esfeld

Adoration chapel dedicated By JILL RAGAR ESFELD Special to The Leaven LENEXA — The arrangement worked after a fashion, but Holy Trinity parishioners here are glad they no longer have to choose between a good cry or eucharistic adoration. For the past 12 years the cry room and the eucharistic adoration chapel were one and the same. This situation improved last Nov. 30 when hundreds of parishioners gathered for the dedication of the parish’s new eucharistic adoration chapel. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann presided at Mass and then led a eucharistic procession to transfer the Blessed Sacrament from its location in the church’s cry room to the new chapel. He was assisted by pastor, Father Tom Dolezal; associate Father Richard McDonald; the unplanned pregnancy? decisions to make? Replace pressure and panic with thoughtful, and rational reflection. A confidential, caring friend is waiting for your call. Topeka- (785) 234-0701 Lawrence- (785) 843-4821 Leavenworth- (913) 682-2700 Kansas City-(816)444-7090 Emporia- (620) 342-8600

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choir; and representatives from the fourth-degree Knights of Columbus. Following the transfer and blessing, all attending were invited to the café area of the Father Quigley Faith Formation Center for lunch. When the parish built its parish center in 1974 and began celebrating Mass there, adoration was relegated to the old stone church built in 1911. It was moved from that church to the cry room when the new church was built in 1996. The new adoration chapel was created as the focal point of the entire Holy Trinity campus. It sits in front of, and connected to, the Father Quigley Faith Formation Center. With approximately 860 square feet, the chapel seats 40 — small enough to allow an intimate environment, but large enough for entire groups to spend some time to-

gether in prayer. The interior’s meditative atmosphere is complemented by the surrounding stainedglass windows depicting the corporal works of mercy. Just outside the chapel’s east entrance is the “Father Jim Wright Meditation Garden,” named in honor of a former pastor who loved gardening. Parishioner Katie Schroeder, who has been actively involved in adoration for many years said, “I think the new chapel is wonderful, and feedback from parishioners has been excellent. It is very quiet, and I think people appreciate that most.” The 24-hour adoration chapel is open to the public from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. “We encourage people to come for a ‘Holy Minute,’” said Schroeder, “if they can’t do a Holy Hour.”

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CANDLELIGHT VIGIL • When: 7 to 8 p.m. on Jan. 22 • Where: In front of the abortion clinic at Seventh and Central in Kansas City, Kan.

Leaven file photo

One of the most important events is the annual lobby day and rally at the state Capitol in Topeka on Jan. 22, which is sponsored by Kansans for Life. Last year’s rally brought out large numbers despite cold weather.

“

The [pro-life] victory will be won in the hearts and minds, and we’re winning there.

“

▼

LET US PRAY

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — You might think that pro-lifers would be at a low point as the 36th anniversary of Roe v. Wade nearly coincides with the inauguration of President Barack Obama. But if you thought that, you would be wrong. “We’re at a high point,” said Ron Kelsey, archdiocesan consultant for pro-life ministry. “A nationwide survey by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops found 82 percent of the American public favors restrictions on abortion, and the number [of people who want abortion restrictions] continues to grow.” “The more and more people become informed, the more they want abortion restrictions,” he continued. “That stands in stark contrast [to efforts to promote] the Freedom of Choice Act.” No question about it, the election of a president with a strong pro-abortion record is a downer, he said, but prolifers have always operated on the long term. Most people who voted for President Obama did not do so for his positions on the life issues. “The victory will be won in the hearts and minds,” said Kelsey, “and we’re winning there.” That pro-life determination will be on display during the annual March for Life in Washington, D.C., and during pro-life observances here in the archdiocese. One of the most important events is the annual lobby day and rally at the state Capitol in Topeka on Jan. 22, which is sponsored by Kansans for Life. “I think we’ll have a wonderful turnout,” said Mary Kay Culp, executive director of Kansans for Life. “People are afraid of FOCA [the Freedom of Choice Act] and presidential executive orders,” she continued, “but they’re also very energized. Would [the Obama administration and Congress] dare to go that far and remove our abilities to have any [prolife] laws at the state or federal level? That would be bold, and awful — and against public opinion.” Usually, the big rally takes place on the south steps of the state Capitol. However, because of ongoing renovations, the event has been planned for across the street in front of the Kansas Judicial Center, home of the Kansas Supreme Court. Events sponsored by Kansans for

Other pro-life events

Ron Kelsey, archdiocesan pro-life consultant

Life begin with a 9 a.m. registration, with coffee and doughnuts, in the basement of Mater Dei (Assumption) Church at Eighth and Jackson streets, just north of the Capitol. At 9:30 a.m., participants will be given instructions on how to find legislators’ offices. Because of renovations, some have been moved to the Docking Building and different parts of the Capitol. Participants will have an opportunity to visit legislators and tour the Capitol. Two workshops will be offered in the basement of Mater Dei Church from 10 to 10:45 a.m. At 10:45 a.m., participants will march, with a Knights of Columbus honor guard, from the church to the Kansas Judicial Center for the rally.

Some participants will hold a vigil from 11 to 11:45 a.m. in front of the Judicial Center. They will place tape over their mouths to protest the continuing gag order on Judge Richard Anderson in the ongoing case regarding Planned Parenthood. Church services will be held at noon, with a Mass and an interdenominational Protestant service. Lunch will be served from 11:30 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. in the basement of Mater Dei Church. The cost is free, but a freewill offering is suggested. Following lunch, a workshop will be held in the basement until 2:45 p.m. An open meeting and panel discussion will be held with the Kansans for Life board of directors at 3 p.m. Culp said that it was absolutely vital that faithful Catholics participate and bring the pro-life message to state legislators. Kansas has good laws regulating abortion, but they’re not being enforced, she said. Despite the disappointing presidential election, pro-lifers can be cheered by positive developments in the Kansas House. The Kansas Senate, however, continues to be a problem, thanks to the current leadership. “The Senate majority leadership has arranged the committees so there aren’t enough pro-life senators on any committee to pass a bill easily except

KANSANS FOR LIFE POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE PRO-LIFE PRAYER BREAKFAST • When: 7 to 8:30 p.m. on Jan. 31 • Where: Capitol Plaza Hotel — the Sunflower Ballroom, 1717 S.W. Topeka Blvd., Topeka • Guest speakers: U .S. Sen. Pat Roberts, U.S. Sen. Sam Brownback, U.S. Rep. Jerry Moran, and U.S. Rep. Todd Tiahrt • Suggested donation: $20 per person. • RSVP before Jan. 27. For information, contact Anna Myers at: kflpac@yahoo.com; (800) 9285433; or (316) 687-5433.

KFL VALENTINE BANQUET • When: Feb. 12 (seating begins at 6:30 p.m.) • Where: Ritz-Charles, 137th and Antioch, Overland Park • Speakers: Michelle and Pedro Armesto and U.S. Rep. Todd Tiahrt • Cost: Free. • RSVP by going to the Web site at: Kansansforlife@aol.org, or by calling (913) 642-5433

on the agriculture committee,” said Culp. If there is one thing that is more encouraging than state-level political gains, it is the awakening that has resulted from people being shaken out of their pre-election apathy. “I’m getting phone calls and e-mails, and even ‘confessions’ from people,” said Culp. “They’re saying, ‘Oh my gosh, what can I do?’ I tell them to come to the [Jan. 22] rally and our KFL breakfast and banquet.” “I’ve never seen people so energized as they are now,” concluded Culp. “They want to do more. They don’t feel defeated.”

6 LOCAL NEWS THE LEAVEN • JANUARY 9, 2009

THE LEAVEN • JANUARY 16, 2009

LOCAL NEWS

Appointments

CD helps youth keep the faith Continued from page 1 kids who attend camp really wanted to harness that.” The CD costs $15, but larger donations are greatly appreciated. All proceeds will go to help build a permanent chapel at Prairie Star Ranch, home of Camp Tekakwitha. “The kids really want a permanent chapel to celebrate Mass and have a quiet prayer space that can be used at all times,” said Nearmyer. Beyond the tangible benefit of funding a chapel at Prairie Star Ranch, both Nearmyer and Father O’Connor say they hope the CD also provides spiritual benefits for its listeners. “This can be a great experience for kids and families to bring them

A new camp CD is available through the archdiocesan youth office, complete with songs recorded from two camp sessions during the summer of 2008. back to their faith and their camp experience,” said Father O’Connor. Nearmyer agreed.

“Families are under a barrage of stressors these days, and we’re all busy. Listening to this music in the car, while you’re busy running here and there, can be a way to synchronize hearts with God,” he said. In addition to the youth office, CDs are available for purchase at Church of the Ascension in Overland Park, Curé of Ars Church, and by contacting Mary Ann Caffrey at (913) 851-8210. Make checks payable to “For Kids and Christ.” More information on Camp Tekakwitha is available at the Web site: www.archkck.org. Registration for campers entering 7th through 12th grade begins Jan. 30, with registration for 5th- and 6th-graders following on Feb. 6. Mail-in registrations must be postmarked on those dates as well.

Camp provides youths with a wide variety of fun activities, as well as an environment to share their faith.

Father Anthony Williams, pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Olpe and St. Mary in Hartford, has been granted a sabbatical from Jan. 5 to June 24. F a t h e r Balachandra Miriyala, associate pastor at Mater Dei Parish in Topeka, Father Anthony has been appointWilliams ed administrator of St. Joseph and St. Mary parishes in Father Williams’ absence. Father Mathew Francis, recently arrived from India, is assigned as associate pastor at Mater Dei, Topeka.

Spaghetti dinner to benefit Sisters, Servants of Mary KANSAS CITY, Kan. — A spaghetti dinner to benefit the Sisters, Servants of Mary is scheduled for Feb.1, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., at St. Patrick Parish center, 94th and State Ave., here. Donations are $8 for adults and $3 for children under 10. The meal will include Italian sausage and spaghetti, salad, bread, dessert and a beverage. The event will feature a variety booth, a raffle and a bake sale. The Sisters, Servants of Mary are women religious with a nursing ministry. They provide in-home nursing care, free of charge, throughout the Greater Kansas City metropolitan area. Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door. For more information, call (913) 371-3423.

Father Francis Moriones, OAR

Sister Dorothy Harvat, SCL

Sister Susanna Kennedy, SCL

Father Francis Moriones, 97, of the Order of Augustinian Recollects and a longtime resident of the Order’s Tagaste Monastery in Suffern, N.Y., died Nov. 29, 2008, at Ramapo Manor Nursing Home, Suffern. Father Francis was born in Cáseda, Navarre, Spain, on Dec. 3, 1910, the son of Santos Moriones and Eduarda Benedit. He entered the Augustinian Recollect minor seminary at age 11. He took vows to religious life in 1926 and 1931. He was ordained to the priesthood in Rome on March 31, 1934. In that same year, Father Francis arrived in the United States and remained there the rest of his life. OBITUARIES He went to the order’s provincial residence in Kansas City, Kan., and took up a professorship in theology at Donnelly College, where he taught for many years. He also taught theology at the convent of the Sisters, Servants of Mary in Kansas City, Kan. In the early 1950s, Father Francis moved to Tagaste Monastery and began teaching at Darlington Seminary in Mahwah, N.J. He was also a member of the adjunct faculty at Immaculate Conception Seminary at Seton Hall University, South Orange, N.J. Father Francis is perhaps best known for his dedication to the ministry of the Secular Augustinian Recollects (SAR) at Tagaste Monastery. It is made up of laymen and women who are encouraged to follow the teachings and example of St. Augustine. For over 30 years, Father Francis served as the group’s spiritual director.

LEAVENWORTH — Sister Dorothy Harvat (formerly Sister Mary Edwina Harvat), 83, a Sister of Charity of Leavenworth, died Dec. 25, 2008, at the Sisters’ motherhouse here. Dorothy Pauline Harvat was born Dec. 5, 1925, in Livingston, Mont., one of three children of Edwin J. and Helen M. Schustrom Harvat. She graduated from St. Mary Elementary School and Park County High School, Livingston. She entered the religious community of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth on Feb. 12, 1946, and, as Sister Mary Edwina, made her profession of vows on Feb. 15, 1948. Sister Mary Edwina later returned to the use of her baptismal name. After profession, Sister Dorothy taught for a brief time in Emmett and at Bishop Ward High School in Kansas City, Kan., before returning to the University of Saint Mary in Leavenworth where she spent the next 45 years. During that time she held different positions, including: associate professor of dietetics and home economics; department chairperson; administrative dietician and manager of food services; business manager; and registrar. During the summer months of 1970 and 1971, Sister Dorothy was missioned to teach home economics in Ethiopia. Sister Dorothy received a bachelor’s degree in dietetics from the University of Saint Mary and a master’s in nutrition education from Drexel University, Philadelphia.

LEAVENWORTH — Sister Susanna Kennedy, 72, a Sister of Charity of Leavenworth, died on Jan. 2 at the motherhouse here. Susanna Marie Kennedy was born Sept. 29, 1936, in Frankfort to William Francis and Opal Marie Allen Kennedy. She attended Annunciation Grade School and Frankfort High School. She entered the religious community of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth on Aug. 20, 1957, and, as Sister Marie Francis, made her profession of vows on Aug. 22, 1959. Sister Marie Francis later returned to the use of her baptismal name. Sister Susanna earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Saint Mary, Leavenworth, and a master’s in biology from the University of Northern Colorado. She taught at Bishop Ward High School in Kansas City, Kan.; Hayden High School, Topeka; and at Bishop Hogan and St. Pius X high schools in Kansas City, Mo. Sister Susanna also taught in Colorado and Montana. After leaving the classroom, she served in Denver in ministry training services with the Focus on Leadership program; as director of the Sacred Heart Emergency Housing Center; and at Anam Chara Home as home manager. In Glenwood Springs, Colo., Sister Susanna served at St. Stephen Parish Center in parish ministry and as education coordinator; and in Pueblo, Colo., at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish as director of parish social ministry and as pastoral associate. Later, she served as community liaison for the Gardner Institute, Kansas City, Kan.

Workshop set for Jan. 31 LEAVENWORTH — Richard Johnson, Ph.D., president of the Association of Lifelong Adult Ministry, will present “Discovering Your Spiritual Strengths” on Jan. 31, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., at Marillac Center, 4200 S. Fourth St., here. For more information or to register, send an e-mail to: retreats@scls.org, or call (913) 758-6552.

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Story and photos By

Jill Ragar Esfeld

roceeds from the cookbook will benefit Holy Trinity Parish’s faith formation program and several charities, including Alexandra’s House, Safehome, the Little Sisters of the Poor, Father Bala’s leper colony and Villa St. Francis. “It’s just a good way to get to know a lot of the women of the parish and feel like you’re doing something worthwhile,” said Hilliard. The group also nourishes the spiritual hunger of its members with faith enriching conferences, activities and community Mass celebrations. Prayer is an important part of the monthly meetings, and members share a weekly hour of eucharistic adoration. Kitty Deady said one of the aspects she likes most is the chapter’s prayer chain. “If you need prayer for anybody,” she said, “you can call [Regent Pat Wineland] and she’ll tell the person in charge of the prayer chain, and they’ll start calling.” Deady said for a group that only meets

‘A Taste of Heaven’ cookbook The Daughters of Isabella cookbook, “A Taste of Heaven,” has sold like hotcakes. But the printing press is ready to go again. To order a copy, call Terri Peterson at (913) 9624127 or Judith Hilliard at (913) 422-8799.

Father Tom Dolezal’s Steak Soup 3 cups water 3 stalks celery, chopped 1 (1 lb.) can tomatoes 2 Tbsp. monosodium glutamate 2 small onions, chopped 2 carrots, sliced 1 tsp. pepper 1 (10 oz.) pkg. frozen mixed vegetables 1 lb. coarsely ground beef 1 lb. diced chuck roast, browned and drained 2 to 4 Tbsp. beef base ½ cup flour ½ cup butter

The Daughters of Isabella was founded in 1897 as a women’s auxiliary of the Knights of Columbus. There are 80,000 members throughout the world. For more information on the organization or to find a chapter, visit the Web site at: www.daughtersofisabella.org.

once a month, she’s amazed at how much good is accomplished by the Daughters. She currently serves on the Welfare Committee and is heading efforts to host a Valentine dance and dinner — something the Daughters hope to make an annual event. Wise said the Valentine dance is just one example of fresh ideas brought to the group by new members. But one thing she treasures about this chapter is its unity and the way all members, old and new, are valued. “Our senior members are very supportive of us and those that can’t come [to activities] we call our prayer ambassadors,” she explained. “When we have a sick member, we call them and put them in the loop to say prayers for the member. I think that says a lot for our organization and the longstanding support we have for one another.” Wise, who moved into the parish from Chicago, said she will always be grateful for her membership in the Daughters of Isabella. “It was a way for me to connect with other women, and so that’s how I got started in it,” she explained. “Of course, my husband says now his friends are my friends from church — and he’s a native of Lenexa!” “They’re always there when the parish has a need,” concluded Father Dolezal. “They’re either coming up with their cookies and desserts or they’re actually, physically, there serving and taking care of the needs of the parish — and that is the purpose of the Daughters.”

Valentine’s Day dinner/ dance and auction to benefit local charities Holy Trinity Daughters of Isabella, with help from the Knights of Columbus, is having a Valentine dinner/dance and silent auction on Feb. 14. The event will begin with a 5 p.m. Mass at Holy Trinity Church in Lenexa, where couples will receive a marriage blessing. A silent auction and buffet dinner, catered by “A Touch of Class,” will follow at the parish’s Father Quigley Center. Dinner and drinks are included in the ticket price. Dance music, provided by Phil Jay from 94.9 KCMO, will round out the evening. Prepaid admission is required before Feb. 6. For tickets or more information, contact Louise Lloyd at (913) 661-1720, or send her an e-mail at: lalloydks@ yahoo.com.

Honored Daughters Holy Trinity Circle No. 421 of the Daughters of Isabella was chartered on Jan. 8, 1928. The chapter started with 40 charter members. It currently has 136 members, eight of whom were recently honored for more than 50 years of membership: Dorothy Joergens: 71 years Helen Mahurin: 61 years Lucille Bauer: 59 years Edith Gast: 57 years Bernice Siefert: 55 years Rose Halert: 55 years Donna Kill: 50 years Velma Bogina: 50 years

▲ ANOTHER BIG SALE Daughter Judith Hilliard (above, right), who originally pitched the idea for “A Taste of Heaven,” was bombarded with eager buyers at a cookbook sale after Mass.

▲

Daughters of Isabella still cooking up new ideas

ENEXA — Silver and gold is the new year theme for one of the longest running Daughters of Isabella chapters in the archdiocese. Holy Trinity Parish Circle No. 421 here celebrated its 80th year in 2008, honoring members who have been members for as many as 70 years. But don’t let the longevity of this chapter fool you. It also boasts many new members with fresh ideas. As they head into 2009, these Daughters are launching projects that will broaden the chapter’s appeal, visibility and pocketbook — benefiting the many charitable organizations supported by their generosity. Vicki Wise, a past regent and current vice regent, has been with the chapter for 10 years. She said current membership exceeds 130, with about 50 very active members. The group’s most recent venture is a cookbook called “A Taste of Heaven.” The name does not exaggerate the talent these women bring to their cooking — a fact attested to by Judith Hilliard, who has been a member for three years. “They had a Christmas potluck about a year ago,” she said. “There was all this really good stuff, and I thought, ‘Gosh, I would like to have the recipe for that!’ So I said to Teri [Peterson, head of the Welfare Committee], ‘Maybe we could make a cookbook; I would love all these recipes.’ “And that’s how the whole thing started.” Hilliard and Peterson launched a parishwide campaign to find the best recipes and created a cookbook just in time for the Christmas season. Sales were phenomenal. “We got 550 copies and have about 13 left,” said Hilliard, just a week before the holidays. “This has just been amazing. They’ve sold much faster than we thought.” But the cookbook’s success was no surprise to Katie Schroeder who has been a Daughter of Isabella for 10 years. Potlucks are a popular venue for group gatherings. Hosts for the occasions usually supply the meat and guests bring everything else. “So it’s always a wide variety of food as well as camaraderie,” said Schroeder. “And there are a lot of good cooks in that group!” Schroeder said she joined the Daughters to meet people, and she encourages others to do the same. “It’s just a great way for the women of the parish — because it is such a big parish — to get to know each other,” she said Pastor Father Tom Dolezal is enthusiastic in his praise for the organization and said its benefit to the parish goes beyond the friendships it inspires. “They are a very active group,” he said. “It is not just about being social; they really get out and do things and are very visible in the parish. “The Daughters and the Knights (of Columbus) go hand in hand. They both have roots back to Father McGivney,” he said. “And the Daughters are right there with the Knights helping to promote the corporal works of mercy.”

A TIME TO REFLECT

Daughter of Isabella secretary Geanie Smith (left) shares some photographs with fellow Daughter Sheila Rohrer at a day of reflection event sponsored by the group.

Put all ingredients, except butter and flour, in a crock pot. Cover and cook on LOW for 8 to 10 hours. One hour before serving, turn to HIGH. Make a roux of 1 stick melted butter and ½ cup flour. Stir until smooth. Pour into crock pot and stir until thickened. Cook soup on HIGH until thickened.

Judy’s Favorite Strawberry Salad 2-2/3 cups pretzels, crushed 1-1/2 sticks butter, melted 1 large strawberry Jell-O 1 large pkg. frozen strawberries, thawed 12 oz. cream cheese, softened Small Cool Whip Mix pretzels and butter. Press into 9 x 13 inch pan. Bake for 10 minutes at 400. Cool. Dissolve Jell-O in juice. Add strawberries; refrigerate. Cream sugar and cream cheese. Spread over cooled pretzels. Place pan in freezer for awhile to set up. Spread Cool Whip over the cream cheese. Chill in freezer for a few minutes. Stir JellO mixture. Spread carefully by spoonful on top of Cool Whip. Crowd pleaser! Keep refrigerated.

12 CLASSIFIEDS ■ EMPLOYMENT Fa ci li t y ma n age r - St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood, is seeking a professional, detailoriented individual to manage our existing education facility and new church to be dedicated in June. The successful candidate will be responsible for all aspects of facilities management of the parish campus, including janitorial, maintenance, purchasing, and staff management. Three to five years of facility management experience required. This is a permanent, full-time position and includes the archdiocesan benefits package. For a complete job description and contact information, visit the Web site at: www.stmichaelcp.org. O r g a n i s t / m u s i c d i r e c t o r - Christ the King Parish, Fort Smith, Ark., is seeking a full-time director of music ministries. The successful candidate will teach music in our pre-K thru 6th grade school as well as oversee our church choirs. Competitive salary, benefits, and retirement. Bachelor’s degree required. E-mail resume, references, and inquiries by Feb. 28 to Father Tom Elliott at: FatherT@ FatherT.com. T e a c h e r a s s i s t a n t s - Prince of Peace Early Education Center, Olathe, is seeking temporary fulltime teacher assistants to work with 2- and 3-yrolds. Qualified applicants must be 18 yrs of age. Child-care experience and flexibility are required. Positions needed March through summer and could lead to permanent employment. For information, call Amanda at (913) 829-2728. Working from home and loving it! - Work with a team of moms to own your own business. Helping moms work from home. No selling, no parties, no inventory, no risk. For information, visit the Web site at: www.MomsForGreen.com.

■ SERVICES

* All lawn services * snow removal * hauling * Save up to 25% on your 2009 lawn care by booking early. Call now for a free estimate. Family owned by local parishioners. Licensed, bonded and insured. References available. Call (913) 620-6063. Piano and voice lessons for 2009 - Instructor teaches in a fun and meaningful context. Instructor teaches age 3 and up on piano and ages 10 and up for voice. Lessons are customized. For information, call (913) 206-2151, or send an e-mail to: klmamuric @yahoo.com.

THE LEAVEN • JANUARY 16, 2009 Financial adviser - Investments down 25-40%? Looking for a new adviser? How did your investment strategy work in a down market? Don’t have a strategy? Call me today for a free, no-obligation review of your investment, insurance and retirement plans. We can talk about a strategy to protect your assets in these volatile markets. Call Ed Pendergast at (913) 322-6838. Active member of Curé of Ars Parish, Leawood. Member FINRA/SPIC. Securities offered through General Securities. Mountain Mov ers I nc. - Big or small, we move it all. Insured movers specializing in antiques. Call Dennis Higgins, owner, at (913) 285-3399. Bankruptcy - When debt becomes overwhelming, seek professional help. Experienced, compassionate Catholic attorney Teresa Kidd. For a confidential, no obligation consultation, call (913) 4220610; or send an e-mail to: tkidd@kc.rr.com. C aregi v in g - 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 need help caring for an elderly family member? Contact Benefits of Home – Senior Care and let our social work expert help you build a plan of care. We provide assistance with homemaker and personal care services, in the comfort of your home. To speak with our social worker, contact Benefits of Home at (913) 422-1591. Have you ever thought of honoring a loved one by leaving a gift in their name? A scholarship fund or designated fund could bear their name for years to come. To find out how you can pay tribute with a memorial gift, contact the Catholic Foundation of N o r t h e a s t K a n s a s at (913) 647-0365. To learn about all the foundation does to help Catholics in our archdiocese, visit the Web site at: www. cfnek.org.

■ HOME IMPROVEMENT

General construction work - Landscaping, concrete work, etc. — you name it, we can do it! Licensed and insured. Call Josh at (913) 709-7230.

Pres erv e y ou r memori es by t el l in g y ou r li fe story! I can type your memoirs from handwritten or recorded notes. Also provide secretarial services. Call All About Words at (913) 438-5922.

Ti m t he Ha n dy ma n - 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.

Machine quilting by Lyn - I also do T-shirt, photo, and memorial quilts too. Located in Overland Park. Call Lyn at (913) 492-8877.

Damaged sheetrock repaired – WyCo and JoCo areas. Ceilings, painted or textured. 25 yrs. experience; insured and reliable. Call (913) 631-5241.

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) 898-8685 or (913) 962-5058.

Electrician - Free estimates; reasonable rates. JoCo and southern KC metro area. Call Pat (913) 963-9896.

THE LEAVEN • JANUARY 16, 2009 STA ( Su re T hi ng A l w ay s) Ho me Re p ai r 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@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity Church, Lenexa. Organizing & handyman services - Basements, garages, attics and shop spaces organized! Your items sorted, 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. Cus tom-kit chen coun tertops - 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. 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.

■ REAL ESTATE

Bea ut i ful DeSot o h ome for sa le - 4 BR, 2-1/2 BA, on one-acre treed lot. Two fireplaces, hardwood floors, basement, and 3rd garage in 30 x 40 shop. Move-in ready! Not far from St. James Academy. $299,000. For appt. to view, call (913) 583-9983.

■ FOR RENT

Offi ce/warehou se s pace for lease - 83rd and Monticello in Shawnee. Half office and half warehouse. 1500 sq ft. is $1075, plus taxes; 3000 sq ft. is $2150, plus taxes. Great location with easy access. Call Kurt at (913) 208-0742 or (913) 962-6990.

S k i v a c a t i o n - Winter Park, Colo. 2 BR, 1BA, sleeps 6. Fully furnished, fireplace, rec. center with pool & hot tub. $125/night; $750/week. Call Joe Frederick at (913) 385-5589. Bahamas beachfront condo - Enjoy the crystal clear waters, beachfront pool or the beautiful sunrises from our newly remodeled condo that sleeps four. $125/night; $750/week. Local owner will rent to mature adults and families. Visit the Web site at: www.coralbeach1602.com, or send an e-mail to: coralbeach1602@gmail.com.

■ CHILD CARE

Registered home child care -Southern Overland Park and Leawood areas. Call (913) 6362782.

■ MISCELLANEOUS

T r ad i t i o n a l , h o m e m a d e It a l i a n b i s c o t t i Handed-down cookie recipe from my Mom. Great for weddings, showers, or any function. They will melt in your mouth! Call (816) 478-4688.

■ FOR SALE

Single crypt - In the mausoleum corridor of the Assumption patio at Resurrection Cemetery, Lenexa. Tier E; crypt 15. Valued at $4500, includes inscription of your choice. Call Martha at (913) 5996276 or (913) 488-3800.

■ 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. (913) 593-7507 or (913) 642-8269. *** Wanted to Buy *** Antique and vintage costume jewelry Member, St. Joseph Parish Renee Maderak (913) 631-7179

■ VACATION

■ ENTERTAINMENT

Ski week (2/28 - 3/6) – Condo in Winter Park, Colo. 2 BR, 2 BA condo with kitchen; sleeps six. Fully furnished, fireplace, rec. center on complex. Inn at Silver Creek. $500 per week. (913) 649-7596.

Di sc j ocke y - For your wedding, kolos, nightclubs, corporate parties, teenage celebrations, holiday parties, sock-hops, ethnic, birthdays, holiday parties, hip-hop/rap, golden oldies. Member of St. Therese Parish, KCMO. Call Zepster’s A to Z Party DJ’s at (816) 741-4777.

Ski cabin in Winter Park, Colo. – 2 BR, 1 BA, on free ski shuttle route. $110/night. Call (913) 6423027. For pictures, visit the Web site at: cabin. forcadeassociates.com. Vacation rental - 3 BR, 2 BA condo in south Fort Myers Beach, Fla. Overlooks canals, boats, back bay. Two blocks to beach and golf course. Available two wks to a month. View at: www.ftmyersvacations. net. Hibiscus Point, unit 521, or call Coldwell Banker rentals at (239) 4633151 or owner at (239) 498-6376.

Wagner’s Mud-Jacking Co.

TO PURCHASE A CLASSIFIED Send an e-mail to: jennifer@theleaven. 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.the leaven.com.

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

V i l l a St . Fr a n c i s Skilled Nursing Facility 170 beds

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

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.

Jan. 17

A memorial liturgy for deceased loved ones will be held at 8 a.m. on Jan. 17 at Curé of Ars Church, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood. The bereavement ministry will have its monthly meeting following Mass in the Father Burak Room. The topic will be “Looking Ahead to the New Year.” For information, call (913) 649-2026.

11 a.m. at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 6218749. Students from Hayden High School, Topeka, will host a Rally for Life on Jan. 22. Events will include coffee and doughnuts, a tour of the Capitol, a workshop, a prayer service, and a rally on the steps of the Kansas Supreme Court building. For a complete schedule of events, including times, contact the pro-life sponsor, Bob Dorst, at (785) 272-8673.

The Knights of Columbus, Council No. 2332, 11221 Johnson Dr., Shawnee, will open the winter polka season on Jan. 17, featuring the Brian McCarty Combo. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and music starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $10 and include sauerkraut-and-sausage sandwiches and beverages. For information, call event chairman Dan Nicks at (913) 631-4633. The Knights of Columbus at Good Shepherd Parish, 12800 W. 75th St., Shawnee, will host a “real” sausage dinner at 6 p.m. on Jan. 17, featuring authentic kielbasa and kraut or Italian sausage and spaghetti. The cost is: $8 for adults; $7 for seniors; $5 for children ages 6 - 10; and free for children 5 and under. For information, call (913) 631-7116. Queen of the Holy Rosary-Wea, 22705 Metcalf, Bucyrus, will host a poker tournament on Jan. 17. Registration begins at 6:30 p.m.; play begins at 7:00 p.m. The cost of $40 includes beer and food. Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third places. Proceeds will benefit the school PTO. For information, call the school at (913) 533-2462. Msgr. Mike Mullen will celebrate the archdiocesan monthly pro-life Mass at 8 a.m. on Jan. 17 at Sts. Cyril & Methodius, 44 N. Mill, Kansas City, Kan., followed by a rosary procession to an abortion clinic four blocks away. Eucharistic adoration is available for those not processing, with Benediction concluding services at 10 a.m.

Msgr. Gary Applegate will give a presentation on the annulment process from 7 - 8:30 p.m. on Jan. 20 in the St. Joseph Room at Church of the Nativity, 119th and Mission Rd., Leawood. This program is for divorced people who want reliable information about annulments. Monsignor Applegate is the tribunal judicial vicar for the archdiocese.

A 10-week s up p o r t gr ou p for moms having emotional difficulty during pregnancy or after the birth of a child will be held on Thursdays, beginning Jan. 22, from 9:30 - 11 a.m. at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 621-8749. “Your Write to a Healthy Weight,” a five-week series utilizing journaling as a tool to help you reach the weight that’s best for your health, will be offered on Thursdays, beginning Jan. 22, from 9:30 -

group, which will offer information about resources and services to reduce stress. The group will meet from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. on the second and fourth Mondays of the month, beginning Jan. 26, at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 621-8749.

Join the Singles of Nativity for happy hour beginning at 6 p.m. on Jan. 28 at Trolley’s Bar & Grille, 9100 W. 135th, Overland Park. Look for the yellow balloon and our greeters who will be at the table until 7:30 p.m. Questions? Send an e-mail to: social@son-ministry.org. “Cleaning and De-Cluttering — the Basics” will be offered on Jan. 28 from 1 2:30 p.m. at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 6218749.

▲ The Altar and Rosary Society of St. Agnes Parish, 5250 Mission Rd., Roeland Park, will host a day of recollection on Jan. 23, featuring a presentation on “The Life of St. Paul,” by Father Zachary of the Mother of God, SOLT, director of formation for the lay faithful. The mini-retreat will begin with a rosary at 9 a.m. in the church, followed by Mass. A continental breakfast will follow in the parish center with the presentation beginning at 10:30 a.m. The day will conclude with a closing prayer at noon. Both men and women are encouraged to attend. There is no charge for this event. A freewill collection will be taken up.

The Knights of Columbus, Council No. 2332, will host a 10-point pitch tournament at 1 p.m. on Jan. 25 in their hall located at 11221 Johnson Dr., Shawnee. The cost of $15 per person includes food; beverages will be available. This will be a double elimination pairs’ event. If you do not have a partner, you will be paired with one. For information, contact Tom Zarda at (913) 908-5051, or send an e-mail to him at: z1556@ aol.com. The Lt. William T. Fitzsimons Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus, Assembly No. 280, will host a Salisbury steak dinner from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Jan. 25 in the Father Davern Hall at Christ the King Church, 53rd and Leavenworth Rd., Kansas City, Kan. The cost is $6 for adults; children eat free. Proceeds will benefit the memorial chalice and seminarian funds.

SKIP (Special Kids, Informed Parents) is a group for parents of children with any type of disability or special need. We meet at 7 p.m. on the fourth Monday of each month in the community room at the Seneca Public Library, Seneca. Future meetings are scheduled for Jan. 26, Feb. 23, Mar. 23, Apr. 27 and May 27. If you are a woman who is, has been, or will be a caregiver for an older adult in your life, join a caregiver’s support

The Family Ties ministry (families tied together through adoption and infertility) of Good Shepherd Parish, Shawnee, will host a trivia night on Jan. 31 in the church community center. Tickets cost $12.50 per person; $100 for a table of eight. The doors open at 6 p.m.; the game begins at 7 p.m. For tickets or information, send an e-mail to Sarah at: fourhawkeyes@kc.rr.com. Tom Jacobs, a former Benedictine monk, retreat facilitator, recording artist and storyteller, will offer a mini-retreat on contemplative prayer meditation from the Judeo-Christian tradition from 9 a.m. to noon on Jan. 31 in the Rose Room at St. Joseph Medical Center, I435 and State Line Rd., Kansas City, Mo. Daily practice of this prayer enhances relationships, renews energy, creates flexibility for forgiveness, and deepens union with Christ. To register for the mini-retreat, call Jacobs at (816) 619-3499. The cost is $25 per person.

Misc. Make a new year’s resolution to get out of debt! Find out how following Catholic Church teaching helps you with your budget and finances. “7 Steps to Becoming Financially Free,” a completely Catholic faith and finances course created by Veritas Financial Ministries, will help individuals and couples set financial priorities based on solid Catholic teachings. Small groups are led by local volunteers and last eight weeks. Groups are forming now in Topeka, Lenexa, Shawnee Mission, and Atchison. Meetings will begin in midJanuary. For information or to register, contact Gary Pratt at (913) 647-0365, or

CALENDAR

send an e-mail to him at: gpratt@ archkck.org. Do you or your loved one need support to break free from pornography, infidelity, or lust? The My House Men’s Group provides prayer and accountability for sexual integrity. Sam Meier, MA, LPC, is available for men’s groups and counseling, call him at (913) 647-0378, or send an e-mail to him at: smeier@archkck.org. The My House Women’s Group provides hope and healing for women who are dealing with their loved one’s struggles. Contact Beth Meier at (913) 647-0379, or send an e-mail to her at: bmeier@archkck.org. Sam and Beth work for the archdiocese, and are thankful for the healing they have experienced in their marriage. Support is confidential and from a Catholic perspective. The Singles of Nativity will gather for round-robin-style tennis from 2:30 - 5 p.m. at the Indian Creek Recreational Center, 103rd St. and Marty, Overland Park, on Sundays throughout the winter, weather permitting. If the temperature is above 45 degrees and it is not windy, we will play outdoor tennis. 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 email to Jane Zaccardi at: service@sonministry.org. 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. Individual and family counseling is available at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. Counseling is offered in partnership with Catholic Charities; the fee is based on a sliding scale and is very affordable. Free child care is provided during some time periods. To schedule an appointment, call (913) 6218749. It’s not too late to make a new year’s resolution to grow more deeply in love with y our spouse! The next Worldwide Marriage Encounter weekend will be held from Feb. 13 - 15. For information or to register, call (913) 469-8453, or visit the Web site at: www.neksme.org. Divorced? Widowed? Beginning Experience Weekend gently helps people move through their loss to a new beginning in their lives. The next weekend for the Kansas City area will be Feb. 27 - March 1. For information or for registration material, call John at (913) 219-3465 in Kansas City, Sue at (785) 331-2216 in Lawrence, or visit the Web site at: www.beginningexperience. org.

■ Calendar items must be received nine days before the publication date. E-mail submissions are preferred; send to: jennifer@the leaven. com.

14 COMMENTARY

THE LEAVEN • JANUARY 16, 2009

MARK MY WORDS

Anytime is perfect for cheerful change

President MOST REVEREND JOSEPH F. NAUMANN Editor REVEREND MARK GOLDASICH, STL frmark@theleaven.com Managing Editor ANITA McSORLEY anita@theleaven.com Senior Reporter JOE BOLLIG joe@theleaven.com Production Manager TODD HABIGER todd@theleaven.com Advertising Representative JENNIFER SIEBES jennifer@theleaven.com Reporter KARA HANSEN kara@theleaven.com Circulation sub@theleaven.com Intern Seán T.D. Kane

Catholic Press Association Award Winner 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 Archbishop Edward O’Meara Award Winner 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2001, 2002, 2003 Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799) Published weekly September through May, excepting the Friday the week after Thanksgiving, and the Friday after Christmas; biweekly June through August. Address communications to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Phone: (913) 721-1570; fax: (913) 7215276; or e-mail at: sub@theleaven.com. POSTMASTER : Send address changes to The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. For change of address, provide old and new address and parish. Subscriptions $18/ year. Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.

SCRIPTURE READINGS SECOND WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Jan. 18 SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME 1 Sm 3: 3b-10, 19; Ps 40: 2, 4, 7-10; 1 Cor 6: 13c-15a, 17-20; Jn 1: 35-42 Jan. 19 Monday Heb 5: 1-10; Ps 110: 1-4; Mk 2: 18-22 Jan. 20 Fabian, pope, martyr; Sebastian, martyr Heb 6: 10-20; Ps 111: 1-2, 4-5, 9, 10c; Mk 2: 23-28 Jan. 21 Agnes, virgin, martyr Heb 7: 1-3, 15-17; Ps 110: 1-4; Mk 3: 1-6 Jan. 22 Vincent, deacon, martyr Heb 7:25 - 8:6; Ps 40: 7-10, 17; Mk 3: 7-12 Jan. 23 Friday Heb 8: 6-13; Ps 85: 8, 10-14; Mk 3: 13-19 Jan. 24 Francis de Sales, bishop, doctor of the church Heb 9: 2-3, 11-14; Ps 47: 2-3, 6-9; Mk 3: 20-21

hank goodness for Hawaii! Now maybe I can get a little bit of rest. It’s been a long haul — 10 years, to be exact — but the end product, I must admit, is impressive.

A lot of you might already know what I’m talking about, but just in case, here’s a hint: Think quarters. State quarters. Back in 1999, I showed my mom a new coin. It was an unusual quarter that featured the state of Delaware on the back. Little did I know at the time that I was creating a monster. I explained to my mom that eventually all 50 states were going to be featured on their own coin. Mom’s response was an enthusiastic, “These are nice! We’ve got to collect them all!” I ordered a special folder to display the state quarters and placed the first one in it with great fanfare. After Mom looked at it, she asked when we could get the rest of them. I explained that the U.S. Mint was going to release five a year, based on when the states entered the Union: “Uh, that means that it will take 10 years to get them all.” Oh, that did not sit well with Mom. Her next question was simple: “When will the one for Kansas come out?” I bet that if Kansas’ quarter came out right after Delaware that would have

been the end of it. But when I said, “August . . . 2005,” I knew I was doomed. If we were going to collect all of those until the Kansas quarter, we might as well get them all. And we did. I thought about those state quarters this past Sunday, when a parishioner named Mary approached me after early Mass. She had just returned from a business seminar in Atlanta and said that she had something for me. She then pressed something into my hand, gave me a hug and said, “Pass it forward!” When I opened my hand, I found a heavy gold coin. On one side was an image of a puzzle piece and the words: “You’re an essential piece!” On the flip side of the coin, it read: “Let others know how essential they are! Pass this coin along.” I can’t tell you how good that coin has made me feel. For the rest of the day on Sunday, all through Monday and right up until the end of deadline day on Tuesday, I carried that coin in my pocket. When I felt stressed, scattered, overwhelmed or unappreciated, I clutched that coin in my fingers and felt better.

Incidentally, the gold coin is called “Cheerful Change,” and that’s exactly what it produces in a person’s heart: a cheerful change. Those two coins — the state quarters and the gold coin — represent two ways that we can go through life: as collectors or givers. Especially when it comes to compliments or appreciation, we tend to be stingy. We might justify this behavior by saying that the person was “just doing what he’s being paid for” or by thinking that too many compliments will “just give her a big head.” Sadly, that means we often go through life focusing on the flaws, but being strangely quiet on noticing and acknowledging the jobs well done. That gold coin has been a muchneeded reminder for me to be more willing to encourage rather than discourage, to look diligently for virtue rather than sin. By the way, I don’t have that gold coin anymore. I couldn’t keep it; I had to pass it along to The Leaven’s managing editor, Anita McSorley. But have no fear. I’ll be heading off to the Baudville Web site, the company that produces Cheerful Change, very soon. Just as I dutifully bought rolls of those new state quarters, I’m ordering a roll of these special gold coins. And, you know what? The longer I look at all the good things going on around me, the more I suspect that Cheerful Change will be gone in no time!

THE GOSPEL TRUTH

John focuses on rewards of discipleship

here are they? Sunday’s Gospel reading, Jn 1:35-42, unfolds in an undetermined location. It appears to be a public place, since John ning of Jesus’ ministry and close to the the Baptist points out beginnings of their Gospels. At the same time, John’s Gospel heads in a Jesus to two of his discidifferent direction than the synoptic Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke. ples as he walks by: This should not surprise us, since “Behold, the Lamb John’s Gospel often diverges from the others. of God.” SECOND WEEK As already pointed out, OF ORDINARY John’s Gospel does not conOne of those disciples, TIME cern itself about where the Andrew, then finds his brothJn 1: 35-42 calling of Andrew and Simon er Simon so that he, too, takes place. Instead, it directs might follow Jesus. But our attention to another locaJohn’s Gospel does not bother to specition, the place where Jesus is staying: fy exactly where all this takes place. “They said to him, ‘Rabbi’ (which Are they on the outskirts of a field or in translated means Teacher), ‘where are the village marketplace? It does not you staying?’ He said to them, ‘Come, matter to John’s Gospel. and you will see.’ So they went and On the other hand, the Gospels of saw where Jesus was staying, and Matthew, Mark and Luke, in their parstayed with him that day.” allel passages, make it clear that Jesus On one level, we might understand is walking along the shore of the Sea of the passage to mean that Andrew and Galilee when he calls Andrew and Simon hung out with Jesus for a few Simon to follow him as his first discihours. That is entirely plausible. But ples: “Follow me, and I will make you on a deeper level (and in the Gospel of fishers of people” (Mt 4:18-22; Mk John there is always a deeper level), 1:16-20; Lk 5:1-11). we can understand the passage to refer All four Gospels situate the calling to the spiritual communion with Jesus of the first disciples close to the begin-

that the disciples will enjoy. Throughout John’s Gospel, the verb “stay,” also translated as “remain,” describes that personal relationship with Jesus which characterizes the disciple. For example, later on Jesus will instruct his disciples: “Remain in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and remain in his love” (Jn 15:9-10). As disciples of Jesus, Andrew and Simon can look forward to this deeply fulfilling and enriching relationship with Jesus. They will grow spiritually. That is the direction that Sunday’s Gospel reading is pointing to, in describing the call of the first disciples. In contrast, the synoptic Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke clearly situate the call of the first disciples along the shore of the Sea of Galilee. Those Gospels ground the call of the disciples in their work as fishermen, to emphasize a different aspect of discipleship: “Come after me, and I will make you fishers of people.” As disciples, Andrew and Simon will share in the ministry of Jesus. In a sense, the Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke stress the work of being a disciple, while John’s Gospel stresses the rewards of discipleship. 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 • JANUARY 16, 2009

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Because a parish without a pastor is like a football team without a quarterback: Twenty-one young men are in the seminary for the archdiocese, thanks in part to efforts from the archdiocesan vocations office. Go Team Priesthood! Rah!

reasons to support the Archbishop’s Call to Share

Because the Catholic Church treasures its unity and diversity: The office of Hispanic ministry offers 16 Masses celebrated in Spanish at 10 churches throughout the archdiocese every Sunday. ¡Gracias a Dios!

Because plaid is the new black: The archdiocesan school office provides vital resources to educate about 16,000 students in 38 grade schools and six high schools. Did you know that 1,200 of those students are children with special needs, served by 33 licensed special education teachers?

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Because there’s no place like Rome; there’s no place like Rome: The archdiocesan liturgy office helped plan the liturgies in 2008 that welcomed 178 new Christians into the church, and hundreds of other baptized persons who sought full communion with the church. Better order more missalettes.

Because the deacons are on their way: Our very first class of 20 candidates for the permanent diaconate are in the middle of a fiveyear process of study and discernment.

Because faith formation doesn’t happen by “holy osmosis”: The Benedictine College School of Faith makes available 80 Catholic studies courses for approximately 2,000 Catholic adults who want to learn more about their faith at locations throughout the archdiocese.

Because walking the walk is more important than talking the talk: Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas served more than 85,000 people with food, utility, and emergency assistance in 2008. Like the man said, faith without works is dead.

Because life will be victorious: The archdiocesan pro-life office attacks the “culture of death” on multiple fronts, with education, pastoral care, public policy and prayer. Life will be victorious — but it needs your help.

Because camp is like, you know, totally awesome: More than 1,700 Catholic youths experienced fun and faith at Camp Tekakwitha. S’mores, anyone?

Please join Archbishop Joseph Naumann for kickoff weekend at your parish, and visit

www.calltoshare.org

Because each one of us is a disciple: It takes the generous support of all of us to help the Archbishop’s Call to Share make all these good things happen. Our HOPE is in the Lord, but as St. Teresa of Avila once wrote, his only hands are ours.