04-03-09 Vol. 30 No. 32

WWW.THELEAVEN.COM | NEWSPAPER OF THE ARCHDIOCESE OF KANSAS CITY IN KANSAS | VOL. 30, NO. 32 APRIL 3, 2009

CNS photo/Dave Kaup, Reuters

Kim Childers, who was recently laid off from his job at JC Penney, introduces himself to other job club members during an early morning meeting at Prince of Peace Church in Olathe on Feb. 25. Part networking opportunity, part therapy group, job clubs are rapidly emerging as hot spots for people looking for employment in America.

BY JOYCE A. MITCHELL OLATHE — The woman was calling from Independence, Mo., asking directions to Prince of Peace Church here.

Fred Fosnacht, who coordinates the job club for the parish, offered to give her a list of other clubs that would be closer to her home. But she was not interested.

“Everybody knows Prince of Peace’s job club is the best,” she replied.

Her statement validates Fosnacht’s decision to start the St. Joseph Career Transitions Group, a spiritually-based resource for job seekers. He started the group four years ago, when he was retiring voluntarily from a corporate job at 48, and was in search of a second profession.

“I knew I wanted to do something very different for the rest of my career,” said Fosnacht.

“I wanted to take the moment of change and make it into a moment of grace,” he added.

In his search for some sort of spiritual component to his career considerations, he found few job or career development resources factored in the question: “What does God want me to be doing with my life?”

Apparently, what God wanted Fosnacht to do with his life dovetailed very nicely with the as-yetunforeseen needs of a lot of people. Fosnacht utilized the technology experience he’d acquired in his previous job to found a new company, MyCatholicVoice, an online meeting place for Catholics that combines social networking, music downloads, content from Catholic publishers, and YouTube-type features.

Today, he is utilizing what he’s learned from that new career, as well as his previous one, to facilitate the job club at Prince of Peace.

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2 ARCHBISHOP

THE LEAVEN • APRIL 3, 2009

THE LEAVEN • APRIL 3, 2009

SECOND FRONT PAGE 3

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS

Lent invites us to see life through the prism of the paschal mystery

ly compelled Pharaoh to let the Israelites go, the Egyptians were so eager for the departure of the Israelites that they willingly handed over their silver and gold to their former slaves.

Once the Israelites were gone, Pharaoh again changed his mind and with his army pursued God’s people. The Israelites looked up and saw the power and might of Pharaoh’s army advancing upon them. Once again they complained to Moses: “Were there no burial places in Egypt that you had to bring us out here to die in the desert? Why did you do this to us? Why did you bring us out of Egypt? Did we not tell you this in Egypt, when we said, ‘Leave us alone. Let us serve the Egyptians? Far better for us to be slaves of the Egyptians than to die in the desert’” (Ex 14: 11-12).

After the Lord brought them safely through the sea and destroyed Pharaoh and his army, it did not take the Israelites long to find new reasons to complain.

They were unhappy with the lack of food and grumbled against Moses: “Would that we had died at the Lord’s hand in the land of Egypt, as we sat by our fleshpots and ate our fill of bread! But you [Moses] had to lead us into this desert to make the whole community die of famine!” (Ex 16: 3).

In response to their complaining, God provided quail and manna daily for the nourishment of the Israelites. Then, the people complained to Moses because of a lack of water: “Why did you ever make

us leave Egypt? Was it just to have us die here of thirst with our children and our livestock?” (Ex 17: 3) While Moses was up on Mount Sinai receiving the Ten Commandments, the Israelites committed the ultimate act of infidelity as they resorted to idolatry.

The people complained to Aaron that they did not know what happened to Moses and asked Aaron to make them “a god who will be our leader” (Ex 32: 1).

Aaron made the infamous “golden calf” for them to worship. Having not only forgotten Moses but, more importantly, abandoned the true God who just rescued them from slavery in Egypt, the Israelites preferred to make their own god whom they could control and whose “laws” they could dictate to conform to their desires.

When the Israelites finally made it to the Promised Land, they were panicked by the scouting reports of the strength, number and size of the current inhabitants. They immediately reverted to their seemingly natural state of grumbling: “Would that we had died in the land of Egypt, or that here in the desert we were dead! Why is the Lord bringing us into this land only to have us fall by the sword? Our wives and little ones will be taken as booty. Would it not be better for us to return to Egypt? . . . Let us appoint a leader and go back to Egypt” (Nm 14: 2-4).

It is easy for me to shake my head at the foolishness of the Israelites and ask myself: How could they be so ungrateful and dumb? How could they not perceive the pattern of God constantly assisting them in their need?

Yet, these passages are like a mirror for me. God has so incredibly blessed me. Time and time again in my life, he has helped me through situations that, at the moment, appeared impossible and completely overwhelming. The Lord has

throughout my life surrounded me with remarkably good people to assist me and support me.

Yet, as soon as a new problem or challenge arises, I seem to forget all that the Lord has done for me. It is so tempting to yield to fear, which in turn leads to grumbling and complaining.

The infidelity of the Israelites contrasts with the fidelity of Jesus to his Father’s will. As Jesus kneels in the Garden of Gethsemane, perspiring blood because of his knowledge of what is about to happen, he asks his Father to remove this cup of suffering.

However, Jesus then immediately prays: “Father, not my will, but thy will be done.”

These final days of Lent remind us of the remarkable love of God revealed in Jesus. This special season invites us to see everything through the prism of his paschal mystery — the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus.

We have so much more to be grateful for than the people of the Exodus. Jesus has opened for us the possibility of something so much greater than an earthly promised land. Jesus offers us abundant life in this world and a destiny to live with him forever.

I pray that all of us emerge from Lent with a deeper gratitude for God’s faithful love for us. If we recall on a daily basis how blessed we have been and are, then when adversity confronts us, our natural response will not be fear and grumbling, but grateful trust.

Sometimes things do get worse before they get better. Yet, we know that, as sure as Jesus rose on Easter, the Lord will pull forth good from our adversities. For the disciple of Jesus, there can be no doubt that, in a world seemingly dominated by sin and death, mercy and life are the victors.

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ANSAS CITY, Kan. — When you hear a “code blue” called in a hospital, you know that immediate action is required to handle a serious situation.

The U.S. bishops are now calling a “code blue” for conscience, and are asking all Catholics — especially those employed in the health care industry — to respond.

A 30-day period for public comment, established by the Department of Health and Human Services, will end on April 9. The opportunity to voice opposition to revoking the executive order is almost over.

Early at the start of his administration, President Barack Obama announced his intention to revoke an executive order that was issued

by President George W. Bush just before the end of his term of office.

This “right of conscience” rule gave federal health officials the power to end federal funding for any governmental entity, hospital, clinic, health plan or other health care organization that did not allow health care workers to refuse to participate in activities that violated their conscience.

The rule bolstered enforcement of three long-standing federal laws that prohibited discrimination

K

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This strikes at the very heart of our freedom.There has always been freedom of conscience so that no one is forced to do a procedure they find morally reprehensible.

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D

uring this Lenten season, I have been reflecting upon the 40 years that the Israelites spent wandering in the desert before their entrance into the Promised Land. The church, in selecting the Lenten Mass readings — as well as the Office of Readings for the Liturgy of the Hours that bishops, priests and deacons pray every day — draws heavily upon the Old Testament accounts of the Exodus event.

I noticed the circumstances for the Israelites frequently got worse before they got better. I also noted the fickleness of God’s people. Despite everything God had done to liberate and provide for his people, when a new adversity came, they immediately began to moan and complain against Moses and God. After Moses had experienced the revelation of the burning bush and had accepted the mission the Lord had given to him, he returned to Egypt and assembled the Israelite elders. He and his brother Aaron told them that God desired to liberate them and they worked “signs” that convinced them of the authenticity of the claims of Moses.

Yet, when Moses requested that Pharaoh allow the Israelites to go into the desert to offer sacrifices to God, Pharaoh reacted harshly. He accused the Israelites of being lazy for making such a request and he increased their workload.

The Israelite foremen are angered by the impossible expectations that have been placed upon them. They directed their anger not at Pharaoh who has unjustly increased their workload, but at Moses for putting the Israelites “into a bad odor with Pharaoh” (Ex 5:21).

When Moses told the Israelites that God intended to liberate them from Egypt and to give back their ancestral lands, “they would not listen to him because of their dejection and hard slavery” (Ex 6:9). After the 10 plagues final-

Archbishop Donald W. Wuerl, Archdiocese of Washington, D.C.

against health care workers and professionals who did not want to take part in medical procedures like abortions because of religious, ethical or moral beliefs.

Birth-control and abortionrights activists criticized the “right of conscience” rule, saying it would impede access to all sorts of health care. Many pro-life advocates argued that, without conscience protection, health care workers and medical professionals could be discriminated against or even fired for following their beliefs.

“This strikes at the very heart of our freedom,” said Archbishop Donald W. Wuerl, of the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C.

“There has always been freedom of conscience so that no one is forced to do a procedure they find morally reprehensible.”

Dr. Robert Reddig, a resident in neurology at the University of Wisconsin at Madison, is one of many who are concerned.

“I think it’s a very real issue,” said Reddig, a 1997 Bishop Miege High School graduate and former member of St. Agnes Parish in Roeland Park. “Going through medical school, I was very much concerned that I would have to be part of something I didn’t believe in, especially when I did my obstetrics and gynecology rotation.”

“I was very worried I would at least watch, or be present for, an abortion,” he added. “It’s also often that patients will ask for a prescription for birth control, just assuming that anyone would write [a prescription] for that, and I won’t do it.”

Reddig believes right of conscience protections are needed for all health care workers and professions, even those whose specialties will not take them near the abortion issue. He, for instance, deals with end-of-life issues such as nutrition and hydration.

“Also, there is some concern among health care workers that there is no rule on the books about not having to perform actions,” said Reddig. “There is always the possibility that we could be brought to legal action for refusing

to perform procedures that we have no business performing.”

In a statement issued by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, Bishop William F. Murphy of the Diocese of Rockville Center in New York said that revoking the executive order “raises a real issue, because the statutes are intended to protect human rights — rights of conscience and rights of freedom of religion.”

It is a fallacy to believe these rights come from government.

“There’s a real problem with that kind of thinking,” said Bishop Murphy. “The government did not give us rights and the government is acting wrongly if it attempts to try to regulate rights in the sense of compromising anyone’s rights. All the government can do is foster and guarantee and defend rights.

Otherwise, it’s a false government.”

Bishop Murphy said the bishops cannot oppose this measure alone, but need the help of Catholics all across the nation. To assist them, they’ve set up a special Web page at: www.usccb.org/conscience protection.

By clicking on the “Act Now” button, Web users will be directed to a grass-roots action center at the National Committee for a Human Life Amendment Web site. This site is set up so users can contact HHS easily and quickly.

But act now — again, the 30day period for public comment ends April 9.

THE LEAVEN • APRIL 3, 2009

THE LEAVEN • APRIL 3, 2009

Members polish their ‘elevator speeches’ until they shine Continued from page 1

NETWORK, NETWORK The job club the Independence woman was calling about used to draw some 12 to 20 people in its early years; as the economy has worsened, the number has grown.

Now 50 people come to the Wednesday sessions, held from 7 to 8:30 a.m. at the church. About half are Catholic, said Fosnacht.

“Job club is the best thing that could happen to anybody because most of us are not experts in hunting for a job,” says Jodi Kersten, a Prince of Peace member.

But Fosnacht has developed ways to use the technology of his new career to help others find a way into theirs.

“We use quite a bit of technology because of my background, and MyCatholicVoice as a platform for supporting the job club,” Fosnacht said.

For example, with the help of MyCatholic Voice.com technology, job hunters can record their “elevator speeches” and study the video later to find ways to improve it.

“An elevator speech,” explained Kersten, “is an individual’s quick pitch: ‘Tell who you are and what you do in 30 seconds.””

At the job club, participants are encouraged to polish theirs until it shines.

“We rehearsed it and did it over and over,” she said.

But that’s just one of the ways the Prince of Peace group helps participants.

“Job club is more support than you could ever imagine,” said Kersten.

The job-seekers can ask for specific help — good approaches for a certain question, contacts in a specific industry or company.

“Networking is critical in today’s environment,” added job club alumni Joe Fazzi.

“You never know who may be your next contact.”

Jobs are often landed through a recommendation.

In hindsight, said Fazzi, it was a blessing he did not get some of the jobs he applied for during his 10 months of unemployment.

During that time, in order to support his wife and two teenage daughters, he took a “survival income job” for three months at an auto dealership.

While selling cars, he said, he practiced his 30-second pitch.

The practice didn’t immediately pay off.

“The most difficult part was getting rejection letters, especially when you go out and interview in person and still you don’t get the job,” said Fazzi. “You need to learn not to take it personally, but it’s hard not to.”

When he did eventually land a fulfilling job as the vice president of a small not-forprofit print media company, IDEAlliance, Fazzi began giving back. He now serves as a coach for the job club, offering general support and scheduling speakers for the meetings.

SPIRITUAL SUPPORT Some meetings feature a speaker, while others are devoted to small group activities, like resumé reviews. But always the

CNS photo/Dave Kaup, Reuters

Mike Casey, who was laid off from his reporting and editing job in November from The Kansas City Star, prays at the beginning of a job club gathering at Prince of Peace Church in Olathe on Feb. 25. meetings start and end with a prayer or meditation.

“In terms of motivation and helping me, you can only talk to your spouse so much, so it was a nice support group emotionally,” says Bill Schwingen, who was unemployed for three months. Since finding a position as executive director of The Gardens, a 100-bed assisted living community in Kansas City, Mo., he keeps in touch with the job club by e-mail and, when an opening occurred for an activities director, he notified the group.

Kersten applied for and landed that job.

“The spirituality made you feel more at peace and relaxed and gave a different look about what was going on,” said Kersten.

The 40-year-old was out of work for 15 months, enduring the first lapse of employment in her career.

Richard Palen also found the spiritual aspect of the program an essential ingredient.

“The prayerfulness will get me through it and has made it easier,” he said.

Palen, 34, was let go in early March from a small cabinet company where he had worked for a year in sales. He had found that job after being downsized a year-and-a-half before from a similar position with another cabinet-maker.

“The job search can be a little humiliating,” Palen says. “It’s helpful to know I’m not the only one.”

TRAINING FOR THE BIG GAME Interviewing is not usually a spectator sport, but on the first Saturday of the month at the job club, job-seekers practice for that all-important interview. In March, Susan Santcoeur of Olathe faced interviewer Lori Wittman, with several job club participants looking on from the other end of the conference room table. When the interview is over, they will critique the 30minute simulation, which is being recorded.

Like the elevator speech, it can be reviewed later online.

Wittman, a vice president at FreightQuote.com in Lenexa, regularly screens people for positions at the company. She based the interview on a real position Santcoeur had applied for. A selfdescribed “single mom looking in a bad market,” the former Sprint employee has been out of work for a year and appreciated the practical advice at the careers group.

“To have a group watching and knowing they would comment was awful,” Santcoeur acknowledged after the mock interview, but she knows a good interview is crucial to landing the job.

Did the answer to the “weaknesses” question bounce off the rim, fall way short or swoosh through the net?

It was a slam dunk, the panel tells her, and her inquiry about how the president’s stimulus plan will affect the firm was excellent. Customize the elevator speech for the “tell me about yourself” part, they suggest.

GOOD LORD, IT’S MORNING Theresa Cogswell was one of the Prince of Peace parishioners offering feedback at the mock interview. She contacted Fosnacht after he spoke at Masses last fall inviting parishioners to be informational resources for the job club.

Two years ago, Cogswell voluntarily left a 15-year position with Interstate Bakeries Corp., where she was a vice president but no longer enjoyed her work. She set out “to find a job where you say ‘Good morning Lord,’ not ‘Good Lord, it’s morning,’” Cogswell explained.

She started working on her own as a baking-industry consultant and now finds herself billing more hours than she expected. But more importantly, she’s actually enjoying life and her career.

In addition to helping participants find the right job for them, the job club has also helped integrate some parishioners more fully in their parish.

Fazzi had relocated here from New York, but it wasn’t until he was laid off 15 months later that he realized how few people he knew outside of work.

Prince of Peace pastor Father Frank Burger suggested he join the job club — for more reasons than one.

“That’s where I wound up being much more integrated into the community,” said the 47-year-old Fazzi . The careers group led to his joining the Knights of Columbus as well.

Palen started attending the club three months ago when he could see signs that his newest position might not last. Like Fazzi, he soon found himself involved in other parish activities as well. He signed up to sponsor his girlfriend (now fiancée Sarah Dare) in the RCIA program and began singing with the 5 p.m. Sunday choir. With the extra time he has, he also is volunteering for Catholic Charities.

As a bachelor, he doesn’t have the pressure of a family to support, but he’s put the house he bought last May on the market.

He and his fiancée would like to get mar-

Fred Fosnacht’s top five tips for job seekers Be authentic.

Understand what will fulfill you. Don’t just look for a job. Find your passion.

“You really want to get a mate for the next part of your life,” Fosnacht says.

1 2

Trust that people want to help you.

People are interested in sharing their stories, their connections and the goodness that has been given to them. “Be open to receiving at this time in your life.”

3

Do lots of homework.

Conduct extensive research on the companies that you will interview with or those where you hope to interview. Examine how your skills might transfer to new possibilities via online research and informational interviews. (An informational interview is a brief meeting set up to discuss a company, a career related to that company, or skills necessary for a certain business.)

Practice “free throws.”

Rehearse your “30-second commercial,” conduct practice interviews, and practice telling your success stories for later interviews.

For help with answering interview questions, more than 100 sample questions and answers are posted at http://www.mycatholicvoice. com/media/ZwwTN7.

Fosnacht recommends having several examples of being proactive, learning a new skill or instances where “I was thrown in the deep end and I just excelled.”

4

Give back.

When you have found your position, give back to other job seekers.

“Continuing to give back after you land the job continues to sustain important skills and your network.

You never know when you will need these again,” Fosnacht says.

5

ried this fall, but are waiting to make plans until he has a position.

Until then, he’ll persevere — with the prayer and support of the career transitions group.

“Other job clubs are about ‘Get the job, get the job,’” Palen said.

But at Prince of Peace, Palen said, “There is more to it than that.”

Catholic Job Clubs Church of the Nativity, Leawood: Fridays, 7:45 a.m.; contact Bill Eckert at (913) 322-9177, ext. 205; e-mail: wdeckert@gmail.com.

Prince of Peace, Olathe: Wednesdays, 7 a.m.; contact Fred Fosnacht at (913) 897-6936; e-mail: jobs@mycatholicvoice.com.

Holy Trinity, Lenexa: second Wednesday, 11:30 a.m.; fourth Thursday, 6:45 p.m.; contact Judy Ambler at (913) 894-8125; e-mail: judy.ambler@ epcgconsulting.com.

Sacred Heart, Shawnee: Fridays, 8:30 a.m.; contact Maureen Reintjes at (913) 422-5700, ext. 250; email: maureen.reintjes@shoj.org. .

St. Michael the Archangel, Leawood, offers one-on-one employment assistance and periodically has group meetings for job-seekers. Contact Mark Schieffer at: mschieff@swbell.net.

Also: Johnson County Community College, Overland Park: Tuesdays at 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.; contact Laura Johannesmeyer at (913) 469-3839.

LOCAL NEWS

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Archbishop pleased by ‘right to know,’ encourages prayer for governor KANSAS CITY, Kan. — On March 27, Gov. Kathleen Sebelius signed House Substitute for Senate Bill 238, also known as the Women’s Right to Know and See Act. The bill, which modifies current state law, was passed by both houses of the Legislature by veto-proof majorities and will become effective July 1.

The act requires that physicians who use a sonogram machine as part of an abortion must give the mother the right to view the fetal ultrasound image. It also requires that physicians who use fetal heart monitoring equipment as part of abortion procedures give the mother a right to hear the fetal heartbeat.

The act further requires that abortion facilities post

conspicuous signs that no one can force a woman to have an abortion. Finally, the law requires that the Kansas Department of Health and Environment make available information in print, electronic and video about fetal development.

As Gov. Sebelius began testimony at hearings for her nomination as secretary of Health and Human Services in the Obama administration on March 31, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann issued a statement in which he expressed his satisfaction with the new law and asked that Catholics pray that the governor have a change of heart and “champion efforts to restore legal protection for the right to life of unborn children.”

(See right.)

Statement on the signing by Governor Kathleen Sebelius of the Woman’s Right to Know and See Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann March 31, 2009 With many other Kansans, I was thrilled with the passage by large majorities in both chambers of the Legislature of the Woman’s Right to Know and See bill. Similarly, I am very grateful that Governor Sebelius has chosen to sign this bill that respects the rights of women to be well informed about the development of their unborn child before procuring an abortion. I hope this legislation will save the lives of many children and spare mothers from the terrible emotional, psychological and spiritual burdens that result from every abortion.

It is a positive development that Governor Sebelius chose to sign the Women’s Right to Know and See bill. I hope that this signals, if Governor Sebelius is confirmed as the next Secretary for Health and Human Services, that she will be supportive of policies that are protective of mothers and their children.

It is my understanding that the governor remains resolute in her support for legalized abortion. This continues to place her at odds with a fundamental moral principle of our Catholic faith — namely, the innate dignity and right to life of every child no matter age or stage of development. The Catechism of the Catholic Church expresses this teaching with clarity: “The inalienable right to life of every innocent human individual is a constitutive element of a civil society and its legislation.” (no. 2273) I continue to encourage every member of the Archdiocese to continue to pray for the governor that she may have a change of heart to renounce her past support for legalized abortion and to use her considerable gifts and talents to champion efforts to restore legal protection for the right to life of unborn children.

Tiller acquitted but will face counts before Board of Healing Arts

By JOE BOLLIG Leaven staff KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Dr. George Tiller got his acquittal, but not his vindication. Not yet.

On March 27, a six-person jury in Wichita returned a verdict in the trial of Tiller, one of the few late-term abortionists in the United States: not guilty on all 19 misdemeanor charges.

If he had been convicted, Tiller faced possible fines, jail time, and suspension of his medical license.

Th e c har g e s h e w as c le ar e d of w e r e l e ss t h an t h os e o r i g i n all y brought by former Kansas Attorney General Phill Kline, but pro-lifers hoped that even these weaker, more technical charges might finally shut down Tiller’s Women’s Health Care Services clinic.

The jury disagreed, and Tiller walked. Pro-lifers were disappointed but not surprised by the verdict.

But Tiller didn’t have long to savor his victory.

Moments after the verdict was announced, there was yet another announcement that Tiller would face 11

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The fact that [Tiller] was acquitted is certainly not a reflection on the immoral acts he performed, but it was more on a point of law.

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4 LOCAL NEWS

Ron Kelsey, archdiocesan pro-life consultant counts in a petition before the Kansas Board of Healing Arts.

The petition alleges misconduct similar to what Tiller was charged with during the just-concluded trial. The petition was filed on Dec. 12, 2008, but announced on March 27. No hearing date has been set.

According to Kansas’ strict late-term abortion laws, a viable fetus may only be aborted after the 21st week of pregnancy to save the life of the mother or if continuation of the pregnancy would “cause a substantial and irreversible

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impairment of a major bodily function,” which has been defined by the courts to include mental health.

Even then, the law requires an independent referral from a second doctor not financially associated with the doctor performing the abortion.

Ron Kelsey, archdiocesan pro-life consultant, accepted the verdict with a resignation tempered by hope for action by the Board of Healing Arts.

“My reaction is that I have confidence in jury trials,” said Kelsey. “[Jurors] made their decision based on the point in law that was being debated, and the fact that [Tiller] was acquitted is certainly not a reflection on the immoral acts he performed, but it was more on a point of law.”

Mary Kay Culp, executive director of Kansans for Life, said the verdict did not surprise her. The issue had been narrowed down to Tiller’s financial relationship with the referring doctor, Dr. Ann Kristin Neuhaus.

“It was unfortunate that the prosecution didn’t take issue with the illegal abortions,” said Culp. “The only issue they brought up was financial. It would have made a difference if the jury had

been told that the abortions themselves were illegal, and that [Dr. Neuhaus] rubber-stamped them.”

Culp believes the prosecutor tried hard with what he had, but she doesn’t think he was given the latitude or the resources to develop the whole case, said Culp.

The abortions were not done for reasons required by Kansas law, said Culp, which can be proven by Dr. Paul McHugh, the former head of the Johns Hopkins School of Psychiatry, who reviewed the cases of some of Tiller’s patients during Kline’s investigation.

During the trial, it was revealed that Tiller had a cooperative relationship with the former head of the Board of Healing Arts, said Culp. Now, there is a new executive director and board. “[The board] can take Tiller’s license unless two-thirds of them agree not to,” she said. “We think something encouraging came out the moment after the verdict. The board may be concerned about their credibility after the trail.”

6 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • APRIL 3, 2009

Good Friday collection helps the Holy Land VATICAN CITY (CNS) — The Catholic Church’s annual Collection for the Holy Land helps maintain Christian sites in the Holy Land, provides care for aged religious who spent their lives ministering in the land of Jesus and supports projects that help native Christians remain and thrive in the region.

Cardinal Luigi Sandri, prefect of the Congregation for Eastern Churches, appealed to bishops around the world to encourage parishes in their dioceses to support the collection, which traditionally is taken up during Good Friday services.

The Catholic communities in the Holy Land face serious problems; “the first is the absence of peace,” the cardinal said in his letter, which was published in Italian in the March 25 edition of L’Osservatore Romano, the Vatican newspaper.

In the past year, he said, “the joy of Christmas was wounded by the violent resurgence of hostilities in the Gaza Strip. Among the numerous victims were many completely innocent children.”

Pope Benedict XVI is among the first “to constantly comfort the Christians and all inhabitants of the Holy Land with words and gestures of extraordinary care,” the cardinal said, and “his desire to go on pilgrimage in the footsteps of Jesus” is a clear sign of

how important the Holy Land is to the church.

“The open wound caused by the violence worsens the problem of emigration, which inexorably deprives the Christian minority of its best resources for the future. The land that was the cradle of Christianity risks ending up without Christians,” the cardinal wrote.

Cardinal Sandri said that, in an October general audience talk about the writings of St. Paul, Pope Benedict spoke about how almost 2,000 years ago the apostle initiated a collection for struggling Christians in Jerusalem.

“The collection expressed the community’s debt to the mother church of Palestine, from which they had received the ineffable gift of the Gospel,” the pope had said during the audience.

Along with his letter, Cardinal Sandri sent the world’s bishops a report on some of the projects funded with help from the annual collection.

They included: • The restoration, maintenance and improvement of visitor facilities at the Shrine of the Visitation in Ain Karem, at the Basilica of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem and at the archaeological site of the ancient town of Magdala.

• Improvements to a home in

Jerusalem for aged religious who have dedicated their lives to serving Christians and pilgrims in the Holy Land.

• Providing 300 scholarships for students attending the Catholic-run Bethlehem University in the West Bank or Hebrew University in Jerusalem, Israeli universities in Haifa or Bir Zeit, or the university in Amman, Jordan.

• Continuing a program that helps new university graduates enter the job market by teaming up with companies and paying part of the new graduates’ salaries during their first year of employment.

• Retraining workers who have lost their jobs and supporting artisans.

• Supporting the Franciscan Family Center in Bethlehem and its work with poor families, with children experiencing a variety of difficulties and in the field of health care.

• Assisting parishes in the region restore their churches or build classrooms and meeting facilities.

• Helping young Catholic families buy or remodel apartments as an encouragement to stay in the Holy Land.

• Supporting the Franciscan Biblical Institute, the Franciscan Media Center and the Magnificat Institute, a school of sacred music, in Jerusalem.

Theresa (Grotovsky) and John Hutfles, members of St. Bede Parish, Kelly, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on April 4.

The couple was married on April 4, 1959, at St. George Church, Tinley Park, Ill. A ANNIVERSARIES celebration was hosted by their children in March. Their children and their spouses are: Anthony Hutfles, San Antonio; Janet Hutfles, Overland Park; Gary and Claire Hutfles, Springfield, Va.; Steve and Svetlana Hutfles, Neodesha; Veronica Hutfles, Hampton, Va.; and Joanne and Cory Hernandez, Parsons, Tenn. The couple also has six grandchildren.

Bill and Theresa (Antonopoulos) Beebe, members of St. Patrick Parish, Kansas City, Kan., will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary with a dinner with family and friends, hosted by their children, on April 4. The couple was married on April 4, 1959, at Blessed Sacrament Church, Kansas City, Kan. Their children and their spouses are: Terri and Kevin Oswald; Susan and Rick Meyer; and Bill and Stacie Beebe.

very Holy Week the liturgy of the Church issues a real challenge to even some of the most serious readers of the Bible. It does this by appointing two different Passion narratives to be read within a short period. On Palm or Passion Sunday we hear the Passion according to Matthew (Year A) or Mark (Year B) or Luke (Year C), while on Good Friday every year the Passion according to John is read. If you examine these Passion accounts very carefully, you will notice that the two narratives which are read do not give the same picture of Jesus’ death in terms either of content or of outlook. St. John, for example, presents a Jesus of kingly serenity, while St. Mark’s stark portrait of Jesus emphasizes the depths of abandonment before his final triumph.

This can be quite a shocking discovery for some people! For they may well wonder: How can the inspired writers give us different versions of the same event? Is there distortion or error? Has God contradicted himself? We can get back to these concerns later in the article.

But before we do that, we need to see how the Passion accounts were written and to explore the historical factors that may have colored their composition.

E

Gospel writers began with Jesus’ death and resurrection It has been argued that the Gospel tradition was formed “backwards,” starting from Jesus’ resurrection and working toward his birth. Certainly early Christian preaching paid primary attention to the crucifixion and resurrection. For example, the Acts of the Apostles repeats: You killed Jesus by hanging or crucifying him, but God raised him up (2:32,36; 5:30-31; 10:3940). Then, as Christians reflected on the earlier career of the crucified one, accounts of Jesus’ public ministry emerged, and eventually (in Matthew and Luke) accounts of his birth. Thus, a basic account of the crucifixion may have been shaped relatively soon in Gospel formation.

The shaping of such an account would have been facilitated by the necessary order of the events. Arrest had to precede trial, which , in turn, had to precede sentence and execution. The result in our Gospels is a true narrative with a development of plot, tracing the actions and reactions not only of Jesus, but also of a cast of surrounding characters, such as Peter, Judas and Pilate. The impact of Jesus’ fate on various people is vividly illustrated, and even when we read the Passion accounts today we notice how the drama of the tragedy has been heightened by the contrasting of one character with another. For example, alongside the innocent Jesus who is condemned is the revolutionary Barabbas who is freed, even though guilty of a political charge similar to that levied against Jesus. Alongside the scoffing Jewish authorities who make fun of Jesus as Messiah or Son of God is a Roman soldier who recognizes him as Son of God. No wonder that the

HOW TO READ THE PASSION NARRATIVES OF JESUS

BY RAYMOND E. BROWN, SS

liturgy encourages our acting out the Passion narratives with assigned roles read aloud! Each Passion narrative constitutes a simple dramatic play.

Indeed, it’s almost as if John gives stage directions when he describes the trial of Jesus before Pilate. He has the chief priests and “the Jews” carefully localized outside the praetorium (the Roman procurator’s court) while Jesus is alone within. Then he shows Pilate shuttling back and forth between the two sides, clearly dramatizing a man who seeks to take a middle position, reconciling what he regards as extremes rather than deciding for either. Yet the tables are turned; Pilate is presented in such a way that he, not Jesus, is the one really on trial, caught between light and darkness, truth and falsehood. Jesus challenges him to hear the truth (John 19:37); and his cynical response, “What is truth?” is really a decision for falsehood. John is warning the reader that no one can avoid judgment when he or she stands before Jesus.

Audience participation is invited Because of the dramatic format of the Passion accounts, it is easy for us to step into the shoes of the different character types we meet there. We feel drawn, in fact, to participate in the drama and to ask ourselves how we would have stood in relation to the trial and crucifixion of Jesus. With which character in the narrative would I identify myself? The distribution of palms in church may too quickly assure me that I would have been among the crowd that hailed Jesus appreciatively. Is it not more likely that I might have been among the disciples who fled from danger, abandoning him?

Have I not found myself like the Pilate of John’s Gospel trying to avoid a decision between good and evil? Or like the Pilate of Matthew’s account, have I made a bad decision and then washed my hands so that the record could show that I was blameless?

How historical factors color Gospel accounts Or, most likely of all, might I not have stood among the religious leaders who condemned Jesus? If this possibility seems remote, it is because many have understood too simply the motives of Jesus’ opponents and have overlooked the historical situation. True, Mark’s account of the trial of Jesus conducted by the chief priests and the Jewish Sanhedrin portrays dishonest judges with minds already made up, even to the point of seeking false witness against Jesus. But we must recognize that apologetic motives colored the Gospels. In other words, because of the historical or political conditions of their times, the evangelists felt compelled to defend certain points of view in writing their accounts. Remember our official Catholic teaching (Pontifical Biblical Commission in 1964) that, in the course of apostolic preaching and of Gospel writing, the memory of what happened in Jesus’ lifetime was affected by the life-situations of local Christian communities.

One coloring factor was the need to give a balanced portrayal of Jesus in a world governed by Roman law. Tacitus, the Roman historian, remembers Jesus with disdain as a criminal put to death

by Pontius Pilate, the procurator of Judea. To offset such a negative attitude, Christians could respond by using

Pilate as a spokesperson for the innocence of Jesus. If one moves consecutively through the four Gospels of Mark, Matthew, Luke and John, Pilate is portrayed ever more insistently as a fair judge who recognized the guiltlessness of Jesus in regard to political issues.

Roman hearers of the Gospels had Pilate’s assurance that Jesus was not a criminal.

Another coloring factor was the bitter relationship between the early Church and synagogue. The attitudes attributed to all the Jewish religious authorities may have been those of only some. In the group of Jewish leaders who dealt with Jesus it would be astounding if there were not some venal “ecclesiastical” politicians who were getting rid of a possible danger to their own position.

(The Annas high-priestly family of which Caiaphas was a member gets low marks in Jewish memory.) It would be equally amazing if the majority did not consist of sincerely religious men who thought they were serving God in ridding Israel of a troublemaker like Jesus (see John 16.2). In their view Jesus may have been a false prophet misleading people by his permissive attitudes toward the Sabbath and sinners. The Jewish mockery of Jesus after the Sanhedrin trial makes his status as a prophet the issue (Mark 14:65), and, according to the law of Deuteronomy 13:1-5, the false prophet had to be put to death lest he seduce Israel from the true God. I suggested above that in assigning ourselves a role in the Passion story some of us might have been among the opponents of Jesus. That is because Gospel readers are often sincerely religious people who have a deep attachment to their tradition. Jesus was a

CNS photos/Bob Roller

The Gospels paint a picture of a conflicted Pontius Pilate as he condemns Jesus to death.

Luke’s Gospel has Pilate proclaim three times that Jesus is not guilty. challenge to religious traditionalists since he pointed to the common human tendency to attribute divine station to purely human elements in the tradition by attributing them to God’s will (see Matthew 15:6). If Jesus was treated harshly by the literal-minded religious people of his time who were Jews, it is quite likely that he would be treated harshly by similar religious people of our time, including Christians. Not Jewish background but religious mentality is the basic component in the reaction to Jesus.

Factors in the death of Jesus The exact public involvement of Jewish authorities in the death of Jesus is a complicated issue. Early Jewish tradition freely admits responsibility for “hanging” Jesus on the eve of Passover because “he seduced Israel, leading her astray” (Talmud, Sanhedrin 43a). Yet modern Jewish writers have rejected in whole or in part Jewish involvement in the crucifixion. A frequent argument is that the Sanhedrin legal procedures described in the Gospels do not agree with Jewish Law expounded in the Mishnah and so cannot be factual. The Mishnah, completed about A.D. 200, is the written codification of the Pharisee oral law; but in Jesus’ time Sadducee priests, not Pharisees, dominated the Sanhedrin, and they rejected oral law, claiming to rely only on the written law of the Old

Testament. The trial of Jesus as narrated in the Gospels does not violate the letter of the written law; therefore, the Gospel accounts may reflect with reasonable accuracy how an inquiry about a capital crime would have been conducted in Jesus’ lifetime according to Sadducee legal tenets. We are reminded by this point, however, that, although during his ministry Jesus may have argued with the Pharisees, those Jews who had the most direct involvement in his death were the priests, who were angered perhaps by his prophetic castigation of Temple practice.

Let us probe further, asking in what way and to what extent the priests and the Sanhedrin were involved. A distinguished Jewish commentator on the trial of Jesus, Paul Winter, would give priority to Luke’s account of the procedure against Jesus, for, unlike Mark and Matthew, Luke reports no calling of witnesses and no Jewish death sentence on Jesus. Yet the failure to mention a death sentence probably does not mean that in Luke’s mind the Jewish leaders were free from responsibility for the death of Jesus, since elsewhere he stresses an active Jewish role (Acts 2:36; 3:17; 5:30; 10:39; etc.). Nevertheless, unlike the formal Sanhedrin trail at night recounted in Mark and Matthew (with the latter specifying the high priest to have been Caiaphas), in Luke there is a less formal Sanhedrin questioning of Jesus in the morning. John recounts no Sanhedrin session after the arrest of Jesus but only a police interrogation conducted by the high priest Annas (18:19-24). Further confusion: John 18:3, 12 indicated that the party which arrested Jesus involved not only Jewish police supplied by the high priest but also Roman soldiers with their tribune. Roman solders would not have taken part without the prefect’s permission or orders; and so, if the information in John’s account is historical, Pilate had to have known beforehand about the arrest of Jesus and perhaps had even commanded it.

Perhaps the scenario can be reconstructed in this way: Having heard rumors of Jesus as the Messiah (the anointed King of the house of David whom many Jews were awaiting), Pilate wanted the Jewish authorities of the Sanhedrin to investigate him and so assisted in his arrest. Some of those authorities would have had their own religious worries about Jesus and antipathies towards him (for example, as a false prophet). Yet they could have told themselves that they were only carrying out orders in handing Jesus over to the Romans for further action, on the grounds that under interrogation he had not denied that he was the Messiah.

(Notice, I say “not denied,” for the response of Jesus to the question of being the Messiah differs in the various Gospel accounts of the trial: “I am” in Mark; “That is what you say, but . . .” in Matthew; “If I tell you, you will not believe” in Luke; see John 10:24-25.) In any case, collusion between religious and temporal power is not an unheard of phenomenon. Religious people of all times have accomplished what they wanted through the secular authority acting for its own purposes.

Attention must be paid to such complications lest the liturgical reading of the Passion narratives lead to simplistic accusations about fault for the death of Jesus. Some famous Christian theologians (Augustine, John Chrysostom, Thomas Aquinas, Martin Luther) have made statements about the Christian duty to hate or punish the Jews because they killed the Lord, so that modern apprehensions about the anti-Jewish

impact of the Passion narratives are not groundless. Nevertheless, I, for one, would resist strongly requests to drop offensive “anti-Semitic” passages.

(Removing offensive passages enables hearers to accept unthinkingly everything in the Bible — the troublesome passages can lead to nuance in how to interpret the Bible.) Rather than seeking to “improve” the narratives by eliminating such passages, those who preach or teach the Bible should wrestle honestly with how first-century conditions qualify and color what is reported. This will help to develop a mature rather than a simplistic understanding of the religious meaning of the Lord’s Passion for today.

How did Jesus view his death?

Besides reflecting on what the Passion of Jesus should mean for us, we may ask what did it mean for Jesus? We are told in Romans 4:25 that Jesus died for our sins, but would Jesus himself have used such language? Did he foresee the exact manner of his death and victory? In Mark (8:31; 9:31-32; 10:3334) there are three predictions of the fate of the Son of Man, one more detailed than the other. Yet, once we are aware of the Church’s official teaching that sayings uttered by Jesus have been expanded and interpreted by the apostolic preachers and the evangelists before they were put in the Gospels, we have the right and duty to ask whether these predictions have not become more exact by hindsight. Have they not been filled out with details by those who knew what happened to Jesus?

John has three statements (3:14; 8:28; 12:32, 34) about the “lifting up” of the Son of Man — a much less precise reference to crucifixion and ascension! Jesus may have originally expressed general premonitions about his suffering and death (a hostile fate discoverable from the example of the prophets), plus a firm trust that God would make him victorious (without knowing exactly how).

Hebrews 5:7-8 reports, “In the days when he was in the flesh, he offered prayers and supplications with cries and tears to God who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence. Son though he was, he learned obedience from what he suffered.” Jesus had preached that God’s Kingdom would be realized most readily when human beings acknowledged their dependence on God. The model for this Kingdom was not power over others but the helplessness of the little child. We humans come most clearly to terms with our helplessness when we face death. Did Jesus, the proclaimer of the Kingdom, himself have to experience the vulnerability of dying before the Kingdom could be achieved in and through him? Jesus’ reference at the Last Supper (Luke 21:16, 18) to the imminence of the Kingdom confirms the possibility that he used “Kingdom” language to phrase his own understanding of his death. The coming of the Kingdom would involve the ultimate destruction of the power of evil, and Jesus’ confrontation with Satan in the great period of trial is echoed in various Passion narratives passages (Mark 14:38; Luke 22:53; John 14:30). The thought of such a confrontation may explain Jesus’ anguish before his fate, and his trust in God’s power to defeat Satan may have been his way of expressing the truth caught by New Testament writers when they said that he died to remove sin.

Different Gospel views of Jesus’ death Finally, we should reflect on what Jesus’ Passion meant to Christians of the New Testament period, using the Gospels as a guide. It is noteworthy that many features depicted by later artists and writers have no place in the Gospels accounts, for instance, elements of pathos and emotion, and a concentration on pain and suffering.

On Calvary the evangelists report laconically, “They crucified him,” without reference to the manner. Strikingly, however, they pay attention to dividing his garments and to the exact placement of the criminals crucified with him. Such details were important to the early Christians because they found them anticipated in Old Testament psalms and prophets. Not biography but theology dominated the choice of events to be narrated. In other words, by linking what happened to Jesus with passages of the Jewish Scriptures, the Gospel writers were trying to explain the rich theological meaning of Jesus’ actions. We must remember that the Old Testament was the theological source book of the time. (This approach is far more likely than the skeptical contention that Christians deceivingly created the details of the Passion in order to fulfill the Old Testament.) The evangelists were emphasizing that through the Scriptures of Israel God had taught about his Son. Their emphasis can also be seen as an argument against those Jews who rejected the crucified Jesus precisely because they did not think he fulfilled scriptural expectations.

Moving beyond their shared theology, we find a distinctive insight in each Passion account. Let me illustrate this

by taking only three: Mark, Luke and John; for Matthew is very close to Mark.

Mark’s version: Despite human rejection Jesus is vindicated. Mark’s Passion narrative portrays a stark human abandonment of Jesus which is reversed dramatically at the end. From the moment Jesus moves to the Mount of Olives, the behavior of the disciples is negatively portrayed. While Jesus prays, they fall asleep three times.

Judas betrays him and Peter curses, denying knowledge of him. All flee, with the last one leaving even his clothes behind in order to get away from Jesus — the opposite of leaving all things to follow him. Both Jewish and Roman judges are presented as cynical.

Jesus hangs on the cross for six hours, three of which are filled with human mockery, while in the second three the land is covered with darkness. Jesus’ only word from the cross is: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” and even that plaintive cry is met with derision. Yet, as Jesus breathes his last, God acts to confirm his Son. The trial before the Jewish Sanhedrin had concerned his threat to destroy the Temple and his claim to be the messianic Son of the Blessed One. At Jesus’ death the veil of the Temple is rent, and a Roman centurion confesses, “Truly this was God’s Son.” After the cross it is possible, then, to see that Jesus was not a false prophet.

Luke’s version: Jesus embodies

Jesus’ Passion is told differently in the various Gospels. While Mark’s Gospel portrays Jesus as needing help to carry his cross (by Simon), John’s Gospel paints a picture of a strong Jesus who needs no help.

forgiveness for others. Luke’s portrayal is quite different. The disciples appear in a more sympathetic light, for they have remained faithful to Jesus in his trials (22:28). In Gethsemane if they fall sleep (once, not thrice), it is because of sorrow. Even enemies fare better; for no false witnesses are produced by the Jewish authorities, and three times Pilate acknowledges that Jesus is not guilty. The people are on Jesus’ side, grieving over what has been done to him. Jesus himself is less anguished by his fate than by his concern for others. He heals the slave’s ear at the time of the arrest; on the road to Calvary he worries about the fate of the women; he forgives those who crucified him; and he promises Paradise to the penitent “thief” (a figure peculiar to Luke). The crucifixion becomes the occasion for divine forgiveness and care; and Jesus dies tranquilly, praying, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.”

John’s version: Jesus reigns even from the cross. John’s Passion narrative presents a sovereign Jesus who has defiantly announced, “I lay down my life and I take it up again; no one takes it from me” (10:17-18). When Roman soldiers and Jewish police come to arrest him, they fall to the earth powerless as he speaks the divine phrase, “I am.” In the garden he does not pray to be delivered from the hour of trial and death as he does in the other Gospels, for the hour is the whole purpose of his life (12:27). His self-assurance is an offense to the high priest (18:22); and Pilate is afraid before the Son of God who states, “You have no power over me” (19:8, 11). No Simon of Cyrene appears, for the Jesus of John carries his own cross. His royalty is proclaimed in three languages and confirmed by Pilate. Unlike the portrayal in the other Gospels, Jesus is not alone on Calvary, for at the foot of the cross stand the Beloved Disciple and the Mother of Jesus. He relates these two highly symbolic figures to each other as son and mother, thus leaving behind a family of believing disciples. He does not cry out, “My God, why have you forsaken me?” because the Father is always with him (16:32). Rather his final words are a solemn decision, “It is finished” — only when he has decided does he hand over this spirit. Even in death he dispenses life as water flows from within him (see 7:38-39). His burial is not unprepared as in the other Gospels; rather, he lies amidst 100 pounds of spices as befits a king.

When these different Passion narratives are read side by side, one should not be upset by the contrasting accounts or ask which view of Jesus is more correct: the Jesus in Mark who plumbs the depths of abandonment only to be vindicated; the Jesus of Luke who worries about others and gently dispenses forgiveness; or the Jesus in John’s account who reigns victoriously from the cross in control of all that happens. All three are given to us by the inspiring Spirit, and no one of them exhausts the meaning of Jesus. It is as if one walks around a large diamond to look at it from three different angles. A true picture of the whole emerges only because the viewpoints are different.

Father Raymond Brown was one of the world’s foremost Biblical scholars at the time of his death in 1998. He was the author of more than 20 books, including “Death of the Messiah.”

Reprinted from Catholic Update (April 1984) with permission from St. Anthony Messenger Press, Cincinnati.

10 NATION

THE LEAVEN • APRIL 3, 2009

US Priest-author, known for spiritual advice, dies QUEZON CITY, Philippines (CNS) — Former students of the late U.S. Jesuit Father Thomas H. BRIEFLY Green and people who experienced his spiritual direction said he left a rich legacy in their lives. The priest died March 13 at the Jesuit-run San Jose Seminary for Philippine diocesan priests in Quezon City, which had been his home for the past 40 years, reported the Asian church news agency UCA News. Father Green was the author of acclaimed books on spirituality such as “Weeds Among the Wheat,” “When the Well Runs Dry: Prayers Beyond the Beginnings” and “Darkness in the Marketplace.” UCA News reported that religious, laypeople and those he had counseled from around the world attended his funeral Mass March 19, which would have been his 77th birthday. The Mass was held in the church at the Ateneo de Manila University campus. In his homily, Jesuit Father Victor de Jesus praised his former teacher's "outstanding clarity and excellence" in teaching and writing. He noted that "possibly thousands" of seminarians and laypeople had benefited from his spiritual direction.

Media effort draws 92,000 inactive Catholics back PHOENIX (CNS) — Maybe TV isn't so bad after all. An estimated 92,000 inactive Catholics in the Phoenix Diocese have come back to the church in the last year thanks in large part to a groundbreaking television advertising campaign called Catholics Come Home. The promotional spots featured people and locations from around the Phoenix Diocese to promote the church during prime-time television. The cornerstone of the campaign, the Catholics Come Home Web site, addresses often misunderstood aspects of the faith. “For those who had fallen away from the practice of their faith, it let them know that we want them to come home,” Phoenix Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted said. The commercials, which ran during Lent in 2008, detail the good works of the Catholic Church throughout history. They also offer real-life testimonials of local fallen-away Catholics explaining what turned them away and what drew them back.

THE LEAVEN • APRIL 3, 2009

Spirit speaks to individuals as well as to church

Cardinal George asks for end to raids

By KRISTIN PETERSON Catholic News Service

By CINDY WOODEN Catholic News Service

CHICAGO (CNS) — Cardinal Francis E. George of Chicago, joined by nearly a thousand people at a Chicago Catholic church, urged President Barack Obama and his administration to stop immigration raids and deportations that are separating families and to work toward more comprehensive immigration reform.

“This will be a clear sign that this administration is truly about change,” the cardinal said.

The March 21 interfaith prayer service at Our Lady of Mercy Church was organized by the Catholic Campaign for Immigration Reform, Priests for Justice for Immigrants, Sisters and Brothers of Immigrants and a number of interfaith groups.

U.S. Rep. Luis Gutierrez, D-Ill., also was present; he will be promoting similar events at churches in other cities in Illinois and around the United States.

The focus of the event was on the family, as Cardinal George and others shared stories of how the broken immigration system has separated families and affected the church and society.

“It is families that enable anyone to enter into society, to learn how to be human, to learn how to love and to love someone in return,” Cardinal George said. “If we want to create a more peaceful society, we need to strengthen families.”

The cardinal emphasized that God created the family unit.

“Our church teaches that the family is sacred. It is the cradle of life, the core institution of society. To separate families — wives from husbands, children from parents — is to diminish what God has joined,” he said.

The church was filled with families, young people, priests, religious brothers and sisters, members of community organizations and people from various ethnic backgrounds.

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — When people forget that the Holy Spirit speaks directly to individual consciences and not only through the church, there is a risk that laypeople would be pushed to the margins of the church’s life, the papal preacher told Pope Benedict XVI and top Vatican officials.

“The ideal is a healthy harmony between listening to that which the Spirit tells me, individually, and that which the Spirit tells the church as a whole and, through the church, what it tells individuals,” said Capuchin Father Raniero Cantalamessa, preacher of the papal household.

The Holy Spirit, he said, speaks through individual consciences and through the church. Through the conscience, “the guidance of the Holy Spirit extends even outside the church to all men and women,” leading them to do good and avoid evil.

But the Holy Spirit also speaks through the church, he said. “The interior witness of the Holy Spirit [in consciences] must be joined to that external, visible and objective witness which is the apostolic teaching” of the popes and the church, he said.

“When this is reduced only to the personal, private listening of an individual, the path is open to an unstoppable process of divisions and subdivisions because each person believes he or she is right,” the preacher said. “But we also must recognize that the opposite risk exists: that of absolutizing the external and public witness of the Spirit.”

“In other words, there is a risk of reducing the guidance of the Paraclete to only the official teaching of the church, impoverishing the varied action of the Holy Spirit. In this case the human, organizational and institutional elements prevail, the passivity of the members is encouraged and the door is opened to the marginalization of the laity and the excessive clericalization of the church,” he concluded..

CNS photo/Frank Methe, Clarion Herald

CNS photo /Luis Galdamez, Reuters

BISHOP BLESSES BAPTISMAL FONT — Auxiliary Bishop Shelton J. Fabre of New Orleans blesses the baptismal font at the restored St. David Church in New Orleans March 1. At right is Josephite Father Joseph Campion, pastor of the church. The church had been closed for nearly four years after it was damaged by the flooding caused by Hurricane Katrina.

SALVADORANS PARTICIPATE IN MEMORIAL — Salvadorans participate in a memorial gathering to commemorate Archbishop Oscar Romero March 24, the 29th anniversary of his death in San Salvador, El Salvador. Archbishop Romero was assassinated while celebrating Mass in San Salvador in 1980.

Famine experience expands teens’ awareness of need

South African cardinal shocked at visa denial for Dalai Lama

By JESSICA ROXBURGH Catholic News Service WASHINGTON (CNS) — Catholic youths involved in a hunger awareness project said the effort has made them more aware of the needs of others, according to a youth leader at an Arizona Catholic parish.

“This event brought awareness to these teens who really had no idea how many young children are ill and die from hunger and poverty,” Eileen Kuns, a youth leader from Christ the King Church in Mesa, Ariz., told Catholic News Service through an e-mail.

Christ the King Church was one of several churches and faith communities of all denominations nationwide that took part in a Lenten 30-hour famine involving teen participants at churches across the country to help the hungry.

It was initiated by World Vision, a Christian humanitarian organization dedicated to working with children, families and their communities worldwide to reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice. According to World Vision, 14,000 adults and children die from hunger and malnutrition every day.

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Participants pledge to go without food for 30 hours and collect donations to help World Vision fight hunger. The event often includes a worship service and discussions about the causes and effects of hunger and how participants can take what they learn during their famine experience to help bring about solutions.

“We had a presentation that made our teens think about how much money they spend that is not necessary.

They were willing to give up a shopping spree and be more frugal with their spending so that they could help and donate in the future,” said Kuns.

“Outreach and justice is a very important part of my youth ministry, so the famine was the perfect choice to get them started,” she said.

“I know that our teens’ lives have been changed and enriched by the experience of the 30-hour famine,” said Kali DiMarco, youth leader at St. Philip Catholic Church in Norwalk, Conn.

The 30-hour famine and other similar events help teens “learn that Christian service is a response to the many gifts they have been blessed with. It is a way of life, not a weekend event,” said DiMarco.

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DURBAN, South Africa (CNS) — Durban Cardinal Wilfrid Napier expressed “shock and regret” that the Dalai Lama, Tibet’s exiled spiritual leader and head of its self-proclaimed government-in-exile, was denied a visa to attend a meeting in South Africa.

“I am concerned that this man of peace is not allowed into our country at this time when we need people of peace to inspire us,” Cardinal Napier said in a statement. “I’m very concerned that our rights to association, freedom of religion and freedom of expression have been sold out to economic and political expedience once again.”

The Dalai Lama, winner of the 1989 Nobel Peace Prize, was scheduled to attend a peace conference sponsored by the 2010 FIFA World Cup in Johannesburg March 27. However, Irvin Khoza, chairman of the World Cup organizing committee, announced March 24 that the conference had been postponed indefinitely “to ensure it is held under conducive conditions.”

The conference schedule had included other Nobel peace laureates who were to discuss topics such as us-

ing soccer to fight racism and xenophobia.

The South African government said it refused the Dalai Lama a visa because it wanted the meeting to stay focused on South Africa, which is hosting next year’s soccer World Cup, and not on Tibet.

Retired Anglican Archbishop Desmond Tutu, winner of the 1984 Nobel Peace Prize, criticized his government’s decision and said March 23 that he would not attend the conference. He called the decision “disgraceful, in line with our country’s abysmal record at the United Nations Security Council.”

“We are shamelessly succumbing to Chinese pressure. I feel deeply distressed and ashamed,” he was quoted as saying.

China, a major trade partner for South Africa, claims sovereignty over Tibet. Many Tibetans, including those loyal to the Dalai Lama, want a return to autonomy for the region.

Former South African President F.W. de Klerk also had said he would not participate in the conference but expressed hope that the government would rescind its decision.

WORLD

11

Cuba allows repair work to proceed on four churches SYDNEY, Australia (CNS) — The Cuban government has given the go-ahead to renovations of four BRIEFLY Catholic churches in Havana, using funds provided by the Australian office of Aid to the Church in Need. In a March 23 statement, the organization based in Blacktown, near Sydney, called it an unprecedented breakthrough that the Cuban government agreed to allow major repairs to proceed. The statement called the decision “one of the best signals yet of improving links between Catholic leaders and Raul Castro’s yearold administration.” Within weeks of the government’s approval, Aid to the Church in Need donated $120,000 Australian dollars ($83,350) for the work. The buildings scheduled to be repaired include some of the capital’s oldest structures, Spanish colonial churches dating to the mid-18th century, the organization said. The statement quoted an unidentified spokesman for Aid to the Church in Need saying that approval of the repairs “shows that since Raul Castro replaced his brother, Fidel, as president, a new relationship is beginning to emerge with the church, one in which Catholics — and Christians in general — are no longer automatically seen as enemies of the state. Obviously there is a long way to go still, but this gives grounds for hope.”

Missionaries of Charity elect new superior general CALCUTTA, India (CNS) — The newly elected head of the Missionaries of Charity, Sister Mary Prema, said she will continue the work of Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta to show God’s compassion to “broken humanity.” The German-born nun, elected March 24 to lead the congregation, said she felt “unworthy of the office” held by Sister Nirmala Joshi for the past 12 years and

by Mother Teresa before that. Sister Prema told the Asian church news agency UCA News March 24 that she felt humbled at taking up the leadership of her congregation’s mission of serving “the poorest of the poor.” She said, “With God's strength, I will do this work and be part of this mission.” Sister Prema was elected at the end of the congregation’s general chapter, which began Feb. 1. Earlier, the nuns had elected Sister Nirmala for a third term, but she reportedly withdrew because of ill health.

12 CLASSIFIEDS ■ EMPLOYMENT Looking for employment - As a pastoral assistant and/or director of religion education. H.E.in applied theology, Maryvale, England. Working towards my BA. 5 years experience in parish as PA/DRE; tribunal delegate; Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, level 1 trained. Call Michael Lewis at (931) 801-2894 (cell) or send an e-mail to: seas office@peoplestel.

P r i n c i p a l - Thomas More Prep-Marian, a Catholic high school with day and boarding students, is accepting applications for the position of principal for the 2009 - 10 academic year.

Applicants must be Catholic. Mail resume to: Thomas More Prep-Marian; attn. Glenn Braun, chairperson; 1701 Hall St., Hays, KS 67601.

P h y s i c a l t h e ra p i s t - Carondelet Home Care Services is recruiting a full- and/or part-time physical therapist for our Overland Park and Lee’s Summit offices. Requires Mo. and Kan. license, excellent communication skills and team approach to patient care. Supportive environment and excellent benefits, including mileage. Submit resume to: nlaux@carondelet. com.

Padre P io Academy - Has three full-time positions open. For information and job descriptions, visit the Web site at: www.napcis.org/ placement.html, or call (913) 268-3155.

Cu stomer- dri ven, fri endl y, servi ce- orient ed p eop l e n eed ed - Proficiency in MS applications, able to assist Web users with demos, navigation of our Web application, and other support-related issues. Great opportunity with a growing company.

Salary, bonus, benefits, plus 401(k) plan. Send your resume, via e-mail, to: HR@cobraguard.net. EOE. Financia l representa tiv e - Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding financial representatives in the Kansas City area. This position is ideal for a determined, highenergy, high-expectation, professional, selfdisciplined, 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.

■ SERVICES

E ng in eer – Do you have foundation cracks or water coming into your basement? Are you confused as to what repair is right? Call Mark Schulte – 19 years engineering experience! (913) 851-0606.

Golf lessons that last! All ages, all skill levels.

Individual or group lessons; reasonable rates; certified teaching professional. Member of Holy Spirit Parish, Overland Park. Call Mike at (816) 522-3847.

Virtus trained. To play better golf today. . .call Mike.

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.

Accoun ti ng/cons ulti ng servi ces - Member of St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee. Reasonable rates. Visit my Web site at: www.allaccountskc.com or call (913) 669-5013.

Compu ter ba si cs for s eniors - Low-cost computer training for Mac or PC. Learn computer basics in the comfort of your own home, at your own pace, and on your computer. Call Becky at (913) 4921544, or visit: www.allaccountskc.com.

W ed d i ng d e cora t i on s - Relax, I decorate for church, receptions, anniversaries and parties.

Includes cleanup. Free consultation. References.

Greater KC area. Call Twila at Elegant Wedding Decor at (913) 724-1408.

Payroll Services — Affordable Rates!

Includes direct deposit, tax e-filing, & W-2s

Matthew’s Accounting Services (a non-CPA firm)

(785) 535-2727 fax (815) 301-9644 www.matthewsaccounting.com

THE LEAVEN • APRIL 3, 2009

All Lawn Services/Mowing/ Fertilizing Most city-sized lots $25-30 Call for a free estimate.

Family-owned by local parishioners.

Lic/Bond/Ins. References. (913) 620-6063 Spring is here! I do mowing, landscaping, walls, decks, patios, and winter cleanups. Call Josh at (913) 709-7230. Southern Johnson County.

Piano tuni ng - Touch up and full chromatic piano tuning for residential and business clients in the KC metro area. Call Bob at (816) 510-3125.

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.

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.

Tutoring - For K-12 in various subjects, especially music and French. Tutor is working on a master’s degree at local university. Tutor customizes lessons to fit the student’s needs and teaches in a fun and meaningful context. Tutor also specializes in test prep and study skills. For information, call (913) 2062151 or send an e-mail to: Klmamuric@ yahoo.com.

Husband and wife cleaning team - Reasonable rates; references provided. Call (913) 940-2959.

Ma chi n e qu i l ti n g - by Jenell Noeth, Basehor.

Also, quilts made to order. Call (913) 724-1837.

Caregiver needed - Looking for a caregiver to help a visually impaired lady when full-time LPN is not available. Wed. evenings and some Saturdays.

Pay is negotiable. Call (913) 449-6303.

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.

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.

S tart a sch o lar sh ip fu n d to b en e f it y ou r Cat hol ic al ma mat er a t th e Ca thol ic Foundati on of Northeast Kansas. To start a named scholarship fund in honor or in memory of a loved one, or to give to an existing scholarship fund or school endowment fund, contact the Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas at (913) 647-0365 or visit the Web site at: www.cfnek.org.

■ HOME IMPROVEMENT

THE LEAVEN • APRIL 3, 2009 Damaged sheetrock repaired – WyCo and JoCo areas. Ceilings, painted or textured. 25 yrs. experience; insured and reliable. Call (913) 631-5241.

Electrician - Free estimates; reasonable rates.

JoCo and southern KC metro area. Call Pat (913) 963-9896.

Beat the recession, prices will never be lower!

Home additions, kitchens, baths, basements, roofs and fences. Green construction options. Repeat clientele. References available. Licensed and insured. Call Ralph Miller at (913) 927-0267.

Ti m t he Ha ndy 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.

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.

Masonry work - Quality, new or repair work. Brick, block, and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; second generation bricklayer. Call (913) 829-4336.

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.

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 .

■ VACATION

S k i v a ca t i on - 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.

■ FOR RENT

Shawnee duplex - Nice, 3 BR, 3 BA, maintenancefree duplex. Open floor plan. Cul-de-sac. West Shawnee, 7111 McCoy. $1150/mo. Call (913) 526-6218.

H o me fo r re n t – 7508 W. 98th St., Overland Park. 3 BR, 2 BA, LR/DR, family room with gas fireplace, eat-in kitchen with all appliances, two-car garage, full bsmt. No pets. Walking distance to Holy Cross School. $1150/ mo. with 1 yr. lease. Call (913) 645-0425.

Deck W orks - Decks; pergolas; ramps; fences; screened porches; licensed and insured; references available; 15+ years of experience. Serving Johnson, Leavenworth, and Wyandotte counties. Call for a free estimate. (913) 432-DECK(3325).

A p a r t m e n t f o r r e n t – 1 BR, 1 BA. $495 per month, includes utilities. One-year lease. 10911 W. 59th Terr., Shawnee. Near St. Joseph Parish. View at: www.shawnee-rentals.com, or call (913) 649-7596.

Beat the recession - Prices will never be lower!

Additions, kitchens, baths, basements, roofs and fences. Green construction options. Repeat clientele. References available. Licensed and insured.

Call Ralph Miller at (913) 927-0267.

Hom e for rent - Modern, 2 BR, 1-1/2 BA home with attached garage near 83rd and Antioch in Overland Park. Many adorable updates and amenities including pool and exercise room; and trash, lawn and snow care. Appliances stay. One-year lease.

No pets or smokers. Call Catherine at (913) 972-8852.

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.

Concrete Work Any type of repair and new work Driveways, Walks, Patios Member of Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish

Harvey M. Kascht (913) 262-1555

■ REAL ESTATE

W a l k t o S t . Ja m es Ac a d em y - 4 BR, 3 1/2 BA home on a cul-de-sac. Granite countertops, hardwoods and many upgrades. View at: www.9617 AppleridgeLn. Blogspot.com or call (913) 397-0938.

Want to help someone heal from an abortion?

Call Toll Free 888-246-1504

Villas of Whitehorse - 15011 Ash St., Leawood.

Located on a cul-de-sac, this beautiful home has 4 BR, 3 BA, a screened-in porch, tile roof, granite countertops, a butler’s pantry, built-in bookcase, office, central vac and more! $419,000. Call Mark at (913) 851-0606.

Open h ouse - April 8 from 1 - 3 p.m. 12709 W. 116th, Overland Park. Just four houses from Stoll Park entry. Walk to St. Thomas Aquinas High and JCCC. Large, Oak Tree Meadows home with 4 BR, 2 1/2 BA, new carpet in finished, walk-out LL, new roof, new windows, new siding, new paint, new entry. Huge, fenced yard with deck and covered patio. $219,000. Lowest price in OTM. Call Rosemary to make offer. Masters GMAC Real Estate (913) 6619744.

■ CHILD CARE

D a y c a r e p r o v i d e r - Certified teacher who wants to stay home with her daughter after this school year ends. I will be available starting June 15 and only want to take 2-3 children ages 6-weeks to 3-years-old. Contact Shannon at (314) 369-0531 (cell). Member of Good Shepherd Parish, Shawnee.

■ FOR SALE Bulk mulch for sale - Prices start at $28/cu. yd. plus a $50 per load delivery fee. For details, visit the Web site at: www.mokanmulch.com or call (913) 631-7217.

Re si d en t i a l li f t s - 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.

■ MISCELLANEOUS

Prom/party dresses - More than 40, both long and short. Junior sizes S-L. Some never worn (with original price tags), others gently worn; current styles. Most $25; some less. Separates $5 and less.

Some accessories. Prairie Village. Call (913) 6427105 and leave a message to find out sale times or to schedule a viewing appt.

Gi ga nt i c g ara ge sale - St. Teresa’s Academy, 5600 Main, Kansas City, Mo. Fri., April 3, from 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. and Sat., April 4, from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. A huge sale featuring a building full of furniture, housewares, books, lamps, pictures, knick-knacks, antiques, vintage linens, kitchenware and much more. You won’t want to miss this fantastic sale!

Sneak preview sale on Fri., April 3, from 9 - 11 a.m. for $5 admission.

■ 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. *** Wanted to Buy *** Antique and vintage costume jewelry Member St. Joseph Parish Renee Maderak (913) 631-7179

■ ENTERTAINMENT

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.

April

10

4

St. Teresa’s Academy, 5600 Main, Kansas City, Mo., will host its annual TNT garage sale from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. on April 4, featuring a building full of furniture, housewares, books, lamps, pictures, knickknacks, antiques, vintage linens, kitchenware and much more. You won’t want to miss this fantastic sale!

Holy Trinity Parish, 9150 Pflumm, Lenexa, will host “A Day of Reflection, A Call to Holiness and Prayer,” for women from 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. on April 4. Sisters from the Apostles of the Interior Life will be the presenters. The cost is $10 in advance; $15 at the door. For tickets, mail a check to: Fran Jaderburg, 8914 Country Hill Court, Lenexa, KS 66215.

Tom Jacobs is offering a mini-retreat on contemplative prayer meditation from 9 a.m. - noon on April 4 at Avila University, 11901 Wornall Rd., Kansas City, Mo. All are welcome. Directions will be given when you call Tom to enroll at (816) 619-3499. The cost is $25 per person.

6 & 20

A caregivers support group will meet on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month from 10 – 11:30 a.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.mount osb.org/kwc.

7

A loss support group meets on the first Tuesday of each month from 3:30 – 5 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.mount osb.org/kwc.

7 & 14

“Building Children’s Self-Esteem,” a two-part parenting series, will be offered from 1 - 2:30 p.m. on April 7 and 14 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.

10

Good Friday services at 1:30 p.m. For information or directions, call Mike McClain at (913) 731-1266.

Father Reginald Saldanha, pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Mound City, Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in LaCygne, and St. Philip Neri Parish in Osawatomie, will lead the Stations of the Cross at St. Rose Phlippine Duchesne Shrine near Mound City at 11 a.m. on Good Friday, April 10. In case of inclement weather, the Stations will be moved to Sacred Heart Church, Mound City, and begin at 11:30 a.m. A fish fry lunch will follow in the Sacred Heart Hall at noon, followed by

The St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center of the University of Kansas will host a live Stations of the Cross procession on campus from noon 1 p.m. on Good Friday, April 10. University of Kansas students will act out the Passion of the Lord, beginning at Smith Hall (across the street from the Kansas Union) and process down Jayhawk Blvd. to Wescoe Hall. Parking is available in the parking garage attached to the Union. For directions, visit the Web site at: www. ku.edu, or send an e-mail to Emily Majerle at: emajerle@ ku.edu.

13

The Lawrence D. Starr Global Studies Institute (GSI) at the University of Saint Mary will present Janet Murguía, president of the National Council of La Raza, who will speak on “The Problem of Immigration, Law, and Justice in America” at 7 p.m. on April 13 in the Walnut Room of Mead Hall, 4100 S. 4th St., Leavenworth. There is no cost to attend; however, seating is limited. For information, call (913) 758-6117 or visit the Web site at: www.gsi.stmary.edu.

Murguía’s group, the National Council of La Raza (NCLR), is the country’s largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization.

14

A 12-week series incorporating education and support for women dealing with addictions and sexual abuse will be held from 10 a.m. - noon on Tuesdays, beginning April 14, at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. The facilitators are Riley Lockridge and Arica Roland. The series is presented in partnership with Friends of Yates and Joyce Williams Shelter. Reservations are required. For information or to register, call (913) 9068990 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb. org/kwc.

15 & 16

A program for women who are looking for entry-level jobs, entitled “Would You Hire You?,” will be presented from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. on April 15 and 16 at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. Deb Foster of Deb Enterprise, Inc., will lead a crash course to help attendees prepare to look for and land their dream job. For information or to register, call (913) 9068990 or visit the Web site at: www. mountosb.org/kwc.

16-19

Marillac Center, Leavenworth, will offer a creative mystery retreat for artists from 7 p.m. on April 16 through 10 a.m. on April 19. The program is open to poets, writers, visual artists, musicians, dancers, photographers

We plan for many major events in our lifetime, such as birthdays, anniversaries, baptisms, weddings, graduations and more.

Why should your funeral be any different?

Let us assist you in planning the funeral that best represents your wishes. It is a great gift that you can give your children.

and other artists to honor, share and celebrate their unique creativity. Sister Frances Marie Grady, SCL, will facilitate the sessions. This will be a collaborative retreat in which participants will need to bring their own tools or instruments of creativity. The cost of $180 includes room and meals. Scholarships are available. The registration deadline is April 6. For information or to register, call (913) 758-6552 or send an e-mail to: retreats@ scls.org.

18

The Shawnee Knights of Columbus will host a polka dance on April 18 in their hall, located at 11221 Johnson Dr. The doors open at 6:30 p.m.

Music by the Brian McCarty Combo goes from 7:30 p.m. - midnight. The cost of $10 includes sauerkraut and sausage sandwiches and beverages. For information, call Dan Nicks at (913) 631-4633.

The alumni association at Donnelly College will offer a free financial lecture given by financial expert Steve Modrcin from 10:30 a.m. - noon on April 18. The lecture is open to the community and will be held in the college’s first-floor meeting room. For information, contact Roger Berg at (913) 621-8744 or send an e-mail to him at: rberg@donnelly.edu.

18-19

Sophia Center, 751 S. 8th St., Atchison, will host “Lectio Divina,” presented by Sister Micaela Randolph, OSB, from 10 a.m. on April 18 through 1 p.m. on April 19. The cost is $100; advance deposit is $35. For information or to register, call (913) 360-6151.

19

St. Paul School, Olathe, will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a Mass celebrated by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann at 6 p.m. on April 19 in the church. A family dinner in the parish activity center will follow; freewill donations will be accepted. To RSVP, call (913) 7640619 or send an e-mail to: ksmith@stpauls olathe.com.

The Church of the Nativity, 3800 W. 119th St., Leawood, will host a Divine Mercy Sunday Holy Hour and Benediction at 3 p.m. on April 19. Pope John Paul II officially established this feast. Those who wish to receive the graces of this celebration should say the Divine Mercy novena, beginning on Good Friday; receive the sacrament of reconciliation before the feast; and receive holy Communion on Divine Mercy Sunday. A soul cleansed on the feast of Divine Mercy is like the soul of one newly baptized.

Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish, 3601 S.W. 17th St., Topeka, will host a Divine Mercy Sunday Holy Hour and Benediction at 3 p.m. on April 19.

Confessions begin at 1:30 p.m. A reception will follow at 4 p.m. For information, call (785) 246-1338.

CALENDAR

13

Misc.

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.

St. Thomas Aquinas High School, 11411 Pflumm Rd., Overland Park, will offer summer camps for boys and girls in K - 8th grade. Many opportunities to participate in both sports and non-sports activities will be available, including: baseball, basketball, cake decorating, cheerleading/ dance, cross country, football, sewing, soccer, softball, youth speed and agility, and wrestling. For information, call Michelle at (913) 319-2416 or visit the Web Site at: www.aquinascommunity.com/ summercamps.html.

Bishop Ward High School, class of 1969, will hold its 40th class reunion on the fun-filled weekend of June 26-28. For information, call Ginger (Ventura) Schoenberger at (913) 321-5818 or send an e-mail to her at: gschoenberger@kc.rr. com.

The Singles of Nativity will gather for round-robin-style tennis from 2:30 - 5 p.m. at the Indian Creek Recreational Center, 103rd and Marty, Overland Park, on Sundays throughout the winter/spring, 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. For information, send an e-mail to Nancy Driscoll at: ndriscoll1@kc.rr.com.

Save the date for Bishop Ward High School’s hall of fame dinner on April 18.

The cost is $125. For information or to purchase tickets, contact Paula Gettles at (913) 371-6901 or send an e-mail to her at: pgettles@wardhigh.org.

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

We are grateful to have served this community since 1929 and we are proud to continue the Skradski Family Tradition of compassion and caring.

Helen Skradski Funeral Director

Call 785-354-7706 today to make an appointment

Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home 800 West Sixth Ave., Topeka, Kansas 66603 www.brennanmathenafh.com

SKRADSKI FUNERAL HOME 340 N. 6th • Kansas City, Kan. 66101 • (913) 371-1404

14 COMMENTARY

There are a lot of good reasons to make Catholic Community Hospice your choice when selecting a hospice.

THE LEAVEN • APRIL 3, 2009

MARK MY WORDS

It’s easier to face life together

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

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.

A

s the season of Lent comes to a close, I feel that a confession to readers of this column is in order: I’m turning into a Facebook junkie.

There, I’ve said it.

I don’t remember precisely when or why I first started a Facebook page, but I do know exactly when I got hooked. It was the moment I decided that I not only needed to be connected to Facebook while sitting in front of my computer, I also had to have access to it from my cell phone.

If you’re wondering what in the world Facebook is, let me give you a quick lesson: It’s a free social networking site on the Internet. It was founded in 2004 by Mark Zuckerberg, Dustin Moskovitz and Chris Hughes, who were students at Harvard at the time.

Gradually it spread from Harvard to other universities and then to high schools. Recently, though, it has been “highjacked” by us older folks.

According to Lev Grossman at Time.com, those “between 35 and 54 are the fastest-growing group on Facebook — there are now 7 million of us, up 276 percent in the last half of 2008.”

So, what’s the big attraction to Facebook? For me, it’s the ability to connect easily with people, especially those who have impacted my life over the years. Users of Facebook “friend”

others (who are free to confirm or deny the “friend” request), allowing them access to their personal page. My list of friends includes people I went to high school, college and seminary with; former students from my days at Marymount International School in Rome and Hayden High in Topeka; colleagues in the Catholic press; couples whose wedding Mass I celebrated; and even an author whose mystery novels I enjoy. Often I never had the chance (or didn’t realize it until later) to tell these people how they helped form me into the person I am today.

Facebook helps me to get that job done. I’ve had an opportunity to not only send friends written messages, but to chat live online and even more extensively by phone offline.

More, though, than just reliving the past, Facebook opens doors into what’s presently happening in my friends’ lives. I’ve had a number of faith discussions online; I’ve received requests to pray for particular intentions; I’ve been able to communicate with friends in the Catholic press about pressing issues; I’ve gotten to wish people something as simple as a happy birthday on their special day; and I’ve been able to express sympathy when learning of

tragedies that sneak into people’s lives.

In short, Facebook is a place for connecting with friends, new and old, near and far. It’s a place to relive old memories and to make new ones. It’s a place to share joys (and old photos), experience support and healing, and give encouragement and guidance.

If those positive aspects of Facebook sound familiar to you, they should.

Facebook tries to capture in a virtual way online something that we humans do naturally in the real world: Gather together and share our stories. And, isn’t that what we do sacramentally in the Mass? We come together from many places, share memories (through the Scripture readings and the commemoration of the Last Supper), and ask for healing, support and guidance.

Naturally, not everything about Facebook is positive and healthy. Like anything where human beings are involved, it can be misused. It’s here that I let my faith guide me: In dealing with others — in the real world or the virtual one — I’m to model compassion, understanding, respect and courtesy. I’m to treat the heart of another with the same care that God treats my heart.

This principle helps me to navigate life — and Facebook — more confidently.

One last lesson (before I check my Facebook page): As nice as Facebook can be, it’s no substitute for a face-toface meeting. The same can be said for our faith. With Holy Week upon us, don’t settle for a virtual celebration of these most holy days. Plan to be there face-to-face with your fellow parishioners and your Lord.

THE GOSPEL TRUTH

SCRIPTURE READINGS HOLY WEEK April 5 PALM SUNDAY OF THE LORD’S PASSION Mk 11: 1-10; Is 50: 4-7; Ps 22: 8-9, 17-18a, 1920, 23-24; Phil 2: 6-11; Mk 14:1 — 15:47 April 6 Monday of Holy Week Is 42: 1-7; Ps 27: 1-3, 13-14; Jn 12: 1-11 April 7 Tuesday of Holy Week Is 49: 1-6; Ps 71: 1-4a, 5-6ab, 15, 17; Jn 13: 21-33, 36-38 April 8 Wednesday of Holy Week Is 50: 4-9a; Ps 69: 8-10, 21bcd-22, 31, 33-34; Mt 26: 14-25 April 9 HOLY THURSDAY EVENING Ex 12: 1-8, 11-14; Ps 116: 12-13, 15-16bc, 17-18; 1 Cor 11: 23-26; Jn 13: 1-15 April 10 GOOD FRIDAY OF THE LORD’S PASSION Is 52:13 — 53:12; Ps 31: 2, 6, 12-13, 15-17, 25; Heb 4: 14-16; 5: 7-9; Jn 18:1 — 19:42 April 11 HOLY SATURDAY NIGHT: THE EASTER VIGIL Gn 1:1 — 2:2; Ps 104: 1-2a, 5-6, 10, 12-14, 24, 35c; Ex 14:15 — 15:1; (Ps) 15: 1-6, 17-18; Bar 3: 9-15, 32 — 4:4; Ps 19: 8-11; Rom 6: 311; Ps 118: 1-2, 16ab-17, 22-23; Mk 16: 1-7

Donkey underlines Jesus’ royal nature as the Messiah

W

hen the president of the United States flies, he takes Air Force One, the aircraft specifically reserved for his use.

When Air Force One lands in an airport, it means only one thing: The president has arrived.

tion the animal on Jesus’ behalf also reflects his royal authority. Only the king could appropriate private property in such an arbitrary way. It is a matter of eminent domain.

The Gospel text specifies that the donkey in question The donkey which carries PALM has not yet been ridden by Jesus into the city of SUNDAY OF anyone: “You will find a colt Jerusalem also brings with it THE LORD’S tethered there on which no a similar significance. It sigPASSION one has ever sat.” In part, this nals to the people that their Mk 11: 1-10 is explained by the fact that Messiah has arrived. The first the donkey is still a colt. But Gospel reading for this this also means that this parSunday, Mk 11:1-10, deticular donkey is suitable for the king. scribes that event.

Just as Air Force One is reserved for We might interpret the donkey as a the president, the donkey on which the somewhat lowly means of transportaking rode could not be used by anyone tion, not worthy of a king. But such is else. not the case. A donkey would have We might note that often an object been a very acceptable way for a king designated for sacred use could not to travel during the time of Jesus. At have been previously used for some the same time, riding a donkey would other purpose. It needed to be unblemhave indicated that the king was comished and uncontaminated from coning in peace. If the king had been ridtact with secular uses. The donkey ing a horse, it would have meant war. which had not yet been ridden thus The fact that the disciples requisi-

would serve not only to carry royalty, but also to carry a sacred personage like the Messiah.

An air of mystery surrounds the whole business of the two disciples who acquire the donkey for Jesus. Has Jesus made some previous arrangement with the owner of the animal?

Or, does Jesus have supernatural knowledge concerning the whereabouts of the beast? It is not clear. The two disciples almost look like Secret Service agents, facilitating the travel of the president.

The use of the donkey underlines Jesus’ royal nature as the Messiah. But the fact that Jesus uses any vehicle at all draws attention to his entrance into Jerusalem. After all, the normal way to enter the city was to walk. Jesus stands out from the crowd of pilgrims flooding into Jerusalem partly because he is the only one mounted on a donkey or a horse. Everyone else is on foot.

Jesus rides into Jerusalem, carried by a donkey. But soon, he will be walking on the road to Calvary, carrying the cross. His triumphal entrance will turn into the way of suffering and death. But it eventually will lead to the Resurrection and new life.

Father Mike Stubbs is pastor of St. Francis de Sales Parish in Lansing and has a degree in Scripture from Harvard University.

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16 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • APRIL 3, 2009

ANOINTING OF THE SICK Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, left, and Father Greg Hammes, below, associate pastor of Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood, bestow the special Lourdes blessing of the sick at the annual healing Mass on March 21 at Curé. The Mass is a joint venture of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph and is sponsored by the Order of Malta.

Photos by Susan McSpadden

Gospel of Life convention set for April 18

By KARA HANSEN Leaven staff KANSAS CITY, Kan. — It’s a whole day dedicated to life.

Co-sponsored by the archdiocese and the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph, the second annual Gospel of Life convention will be held April 18 at St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Overland Park.

The day begins with registration at 8 a.m., followed by a variety of speakers selected for their pro-life expertise and ability to teach, inspire, and energize Catholics around the church’s teachings on life.

“This will be an exceptional event which features several distinguished speakers, including Dr. Janet Smith,” said Ron Kelsey, archdiocesan consultant to the pro-life office. “Over one million copies of her talk ‘Contraception: Why Not’ have been distributed.”

Smith has taught at the University

o f No tre D ame, t he U ni ver si ty of Da l las, and cu rr entl y t each es at Sacred H eart M ajor Sem i nar y i n Detroit. She holds the Father Michael J. McGivney Chair of Life Ethics at Sacred Heart. Smith serves as a consultor to the Pontifical Council on the Fa mil y a n d is th e auth or of “Humanae Vitae: A Generation Later” and “Why Humanae Vitae Was Right: A Reader.”

Smith’s talk for the Gospel of Life conference is entitled: “Creating a Culture That Is Open to the Blessings of Children and Free from Contraception, Abortion, and Other Ills.”

“Catholics have been charged by Christ and the church to build a civilization of love,” said Smith. “They will learn why our culture has become a culture of death. What ways of thinking have led us to support or tolerate abortion? Why are there more and more efforts to legalize assisted suicide? What are Christian values that

we need to support to help build a culture of life?”

Bishop Robert Finn is giving the opening keynote address and Archbishop Joseph Naumann is celebrating the closing Mass. In addition to Smith’s talk, there will be a breakout session for teenagers; adults have the option of choosing from sessions on Planned Parenthood, how abortion affects women and how Project Rachel helps them, and new developments in the stem-cell debate.

Kelsey will co-lead a session on how to motivate, educate, equip, and effectively activate your parish in pro-life advocacy. This year’s theme is: “You Are Called to Stand Up For Life.”

Kelsey said the convention was an important way for Catholics to become better able to evangelize and share their faith.

“Catholics must bring Christ to the culture around us; we must become evangelists. We need to become more like Christ — more in love with God

the Father, more ready to sacrificially challenge the culture around us,” said Smith. “We must be more in love with the church Christ established.”

“Many of the church’s teachings are difficult to understand,” she continued.

“To be effective evangelizers we must know our own culture and know the reasons for the difficult truths we need to advance. This event should help Catholics know both their faith and the culture better.”

Child care is available.

Participants are encouraged to begin the day by praying at a local abortion clinic between 7 and 8 a.m.

To find out more about the Gospel of Life convention or to register online, go to the Web site at: www.RespectLife Missouri.org. Advance registrations are due by April 13.

If you have questions, call the archdiocesan pro-life office at (913) 6470350 or send an e-mail to: prolife@ archkck.org.

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