05-22-09 Vol. 30 No. 38

WWW.THELEAVEN.COM | NEWSPAPER OF THE ARCHDIOCESE OF KANSAS CITY IN KANSAS | VOL. 30, NO. 38 MAY 22, 2009

Leaven photo by Marc Anderson

Most Pure Heart of Mary parishioner Debbie Haas checks the blood pressure of Frank Devader after Mass during a recent clinic at the Topeka parish. The free monthly clinic is just one of several nursing services the newly created ministry hopes to offer to parishioners.

BODY SOUL &

Parish health ministry launched in Topeka

CORPUS CHRISTI COUNTDOWN Mark your calendar to participate in the Corpus Christi procession at St. Agnes in Roeland Park on June 14.

OPEKA — Sometimes, you don’t while on staff at St. Vincent’s Orphanage in find the ministry. It finds you.

Denver, where she’d learn to do blood presSo it was with the new nursing sure checks and evaluate common childministry at Most Pure Heart of hood ailments, like chicken pox.

Mary Parish in Topeka.

Sister Ann came to Most Pure Heart in The program, which be1978 to be a teacher’s aide in gan in March, came about the parish school. After underStory by when members of the her new position in MARC and JULIE taking parish’s Ministry to the 1995, she discovered in time ANDERSON Aging discovered that many that her knowledge of basic people they were seeking to nursing skills could serve the serve needed health as well as spiritual needs of many homebound and hospitalized parishioners. assistance.

It started with the Communion calls she The Ministry to the Aging was already an established part of parish life when Sister made to the homebound. Parishioner Mary Ann Moylan, SCL, become the ministry’s Stewart, a nurse, began to accompany her coordinator in 1995. on the visits. Sister Ann would pray with But when Sister Ann signed on, she brought with her the skills she had learned Turn to PARISH on page 7

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COMING TOGETHER The Sisters of Benedict of Red Plains Monastery in Piedmont, Okla., join the Benedictine Sisters of Atchison.

LEAVEN SUMMER SCHEDULE

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This issue of The Leaven will be the last weekly edition as we head into our summer schedule. The Leaven will publish on the following summer dates: June 5, June 19, July 3, July 17, July 31, Aug. 14 and Aug. 28.

2 ARCHBISHOP

THE LEAVEN • MAY 22, 2009

THE LEAVEN • MAY 22, 2009

SECOND FRONT PAGE 3

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS

The church can survive without a lot, but not without priests

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ecently, I attended a board meeting for St. Mary of the Lake Seminary in Mundelein, Ill., where several of our seminarians are studying philosophy and theology, as well as receiving spiritual and pastoral formation. During the meeting, Cardinal Francis George related a conversation that he had recently with a bishop visiting from Cuba.

After the communist revolution in the 1950s, many priests fled Cuba.

Others were deported or imprisoned.

Eventually, there were only 200 priests left to serve the large Catholic population of the island. The Communist government allowed Mass to be celebrated in existing churches, but no new churches could be built. The Catholic Church was not permitted to operate, much less build schools or community centers.

Those who attended Mass faced repercussions in terms of job and economic opportunities. The government exerted influence over who could enter

the seminary, attempting to prevent those they judged as potentially strong leaders from preparing for the priesthood. Two hundred became an absolute number for the size of the presbyterate. The church was only permitted to ordain a new priest if one of the 200 died.

After Pope John Paul II’s visit to Cuba, there was hope that the Castro regime would allow more religious liberty. Disappointingly, the church is still not permitted to build new churches or to operate schools, hospitals or community centers. However, the church has been permitted to increase, at least modestly, the number of priests.

Cardinal George’s Cuban visitor told him that he was able to appoint pastors to new parishes that he had established. Even though these parishes have no church building in which to gather, they have a priest to celebrate the Eucharist and administer the other sacraments.

The cardinal said that his Cuban counterpart was a man of great hope and pastoral zeal. In reality, the church can survive without church buildings,

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as well as much of the infrastructure that we take for granted in our nation.

However, the church cannot survive without priests. Without priests, there is no Eucharist. However, with wellformed, dedicated priests providing the Eucharist and preaching the Gospel, the church can thrive with very few material resources.

Cardinal George noted, with a trace of envy, that his visitor from Cuba did not have to worry about budgets or administration, because there was no budget and very little to administer.

The bishop and his priests were completely focused on attending, as best they could, to the pastoral and spiritual needs of their people.

Listening to this description of the adversity faced by the church in Cuba deepened my own gratitude for the opportunity to ordain three new priests this Saturday, May 23 at Holy Trinity Church in Lenexa. It places in perspective so many of the “problems” that the church in northeast Kansas faces and, at times, appear to me so daunting.

Beginning with the solemnity of the Sacred Heart on Friday, June 19, Pope Benedict XVI has declared a special “Year of the Priest.” The Holy Father has invited every Catholic to reflect on the importance of the priesthood for the life of the church. The pope is challenging us to increase our efforts to promote priestly vocations, as well as to support and encourage our priests.

At the same time, the pope is asking every priest to rededicate himself to

being pastors for God’s people, modeled after the heart of Jesus. In practice, this means, as priests, we are called to strive to lay down our life in love for the people we are privileged to serve and lead.

Our Archdiocese is blessed with zealous and dedicated priests. On Saturday, I will be pleased to serve as God’s instrument in adding three more excellent priests to our presbyterate. I am also delighted that I have accepted the applications of five men to enter seminary formation this coming year, with several others in varying stages of the application process.

Yet, we need more priests. We are currently blessed to have a dozen international priests serving the people in our Archdiocese. Without these priests, who make the extraordinary sacrifice of leaving their family and homeland, I would have to close several parishes. Recently, I received a letter from college students begging me to assign a priest to their campus ministry center. I wish that I was able to meet their request.

I ask every member of the Archdiocese to rededicate themselves during the coming year to pray for and to promote vocations to the priesthood. I also urge you to take the occasion of this year to find additional ways to encourage and support our priests.

The church can survive many difficult circumstances, but we cannot survive without the Eucharist and without priests.

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COMING TOGETHER Sisters of Benedict of Red Plains Monastery in Piedmont, Okla., join the Benedictine Sisters of Atchison TCHISON — The question asked in the chapel of Mount St. Scholastica Monastery here on March 20 was first spoken by Peter the Apostle: “We have given up everything and followed you. What will there be for us?” (Mt 19:18) The answer during that Friday evening vespers in the chapel was a simple one: everything. All was surrendered and all was shared.

Sister Janice Futrell, the former prioress of the Sisters of Benedict of Red Plains Monastery in Piedmont, Okla., offered a reflection based on Peter’s question, contained in the Gospel of the evening.

When she finished, she stood before Sister Anne Shepard, prioress of Mount St. Scholastica, and presented Sister Anne with her copy of the Rule of St. Benedict — the symbol of Sister Janice’s authority in Piedmont.

The Piedmont Benedictines were founded more than 100 years ago when their pioneering founders left Creston, Iowa, in 1892 to establish a foundation in Guthrie, when Oklahoma was still a territory.

Ironically, even then they had ties to Mount St. Scholastica. The Atchison Benedictines took over teaching in the Iowa schools formerly cared for by the Piedmont Benedictines.

More moves were still to come. From Guthrie, the Sisters moved to Tulsa, and then to Piedmont. There they established a monastery, now the Red Plains Spirituality Center.

New members joined and, for years, the community thrived. But an important reality presented itself even as early as the 1960s: Numbers were dwindling, and the accompanying economic and personal demands of an aging population were on the rise.

More recently, it became clear that time was running out: Something had to be done. The Piedmont Sisters prayed and discerned, and decided to seek another community in which to integrate.

“We especially considered the prayer style and spirituality, ministry, social justice work, interest in women’s issues and the availability of an infirmary,” said Sister Joanne Yankauskis, OSB, a former member of the Piedmont community.

They liked what they found in Atchison: a compatibility in spirit and mission.

“We believe we have a good fit,” said Sister Janice. “Like us, Atchison has a

Photo by Sister Marcia Ziska, OSB

Sister Janice Futrell (left), Red Plains prioress, hands her copy of the Rule of St. Benedict to Sister Anne Shepard, prioress of Mount St. Scholastica, as a symbol of the transfer of authority. The Piedmont, Okla., Benedictines, founded more than 100 years ago, have joined the Benedictine Sisters of Atchison.

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Photo by Sister Marcia Ziska, OSB

Sister Esther Fangman of Atchison, president of the monastic federation to which both monasteries belong, reads the official proclamation of the event, as Sister Anne Shepard looks on. long reputation for its commitment to spirituality and education, with a special focus on the needs of women.”

Some of the Piedmont Sisters attended Mount St. Scholastica College, further building ties between the two communities. The Atchison Sisters, too, felt a real compatibility.

“When the [Atchison] monastic council and I first visited the Sisters at Red Plains Monastery, we were in awe of the holy place,” said Sister Anne Shepard. “The women we met were striving to be very holy and authentic.”

Sister Anne was encouraged by her conversations with Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann.

“He really understood,” she said, “and he was pleased to hear from me that the decision was a pastoral one, not just a ‘business’ one.”

They also received strong support from Archbishop Eusebius Beltran of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, who praised the Sisters for “doing this right, in prayerful deliberation, and maintaining a sense of hope and service to the church.”

The next steps involved the practical issues of integration.

Christine Dormann, a postulant from Red Plains, moved to Atchison to con-

tinue her formation. Recently, she was joined by Sister Roberta Schachle, Sister Gertrude Nagel, and Sister Elena Hernandez. Two Sisters from Mount St. Scholastica — Sister Mary Beth Niehaus and Sister Rita Claire Judge — went to Piedmont to assist ministries there.

The celebration of the integration continued on March 21, the feast of St. Benedict.

During a morning Mass, the 10 Sisters from Piedmont formalized their merger and transfer of vows to the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica.

“As the Sisters join us,” said Sister Anne, “they do not change their monastic promise; they deepen it. Our promises are also deepened as we welcome these Sisters into our community.

Together we move forward.”

At the offertory, Sister Benedicta Boland, from Piedmont, approached the altar with a bowl of small scrolls, each tied with a red ribbon: the profession document of each Sister.

Some were yellowed with age, including her own made 65 years earlier.

Now this altar, vocation and community, belonged to them, too.

Later, during a vespers service on March 21, Sister Esther Fangman of

Mount St. Scholastica, president of the Federation of St. Scholastica to which both monasteries belong, read a proclamation.

She affirmed that, all necessary canonical steps having been taken, Red Plains Monastery would cease to exist and become one with Mount St. Scholastica. The assembly sang the “Te Deum” and processed out of the chapel, led by the newest members.

Sister Melissa Letts, the youngest of the community, said she was impressed by the courage and determination of her fellow Sisters.

“These amazing women have chosen to face their circumstances, determined to stay together and do what they needed to do,” said Sister Melissa.

She said that she never doubted that her own commitment was God’s call, despite all that has happened.

“I was looking for a small community when I first entered!” said Sister Melissa. “This is certainly different than what I expected, but it doesn’t intimidate me now as it would have then. I am just so glad that we are all together.”

The Red Plains Spirituality Center in Piedmont will continue to be operated by the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica.

4 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • MAY 22, 2009

THE LEAVEN • MAY 22, 2009

PRIESTHOOD MADE ‘COOL’

By JOE BOLLIG

Leaven staff

Leaven staff

Personally Speaking

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FATHER MATTHEW SCHIFFELBEIN Age: 29 Born: Topeka on July 20, 1979 Parents: Stephen and Teresa Schiffelbein Education: Seaman High School, 1997; Washburn University, bachelor’s of music in saxophone performance, 2001; University of Kansas, master’s of music in saxophone performance, 2003.

Seminary: Conception Seminary College for pre-theology and philosophy, 2005; University of St. Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary, 2009

Deacon Schiffelbein will be ordained to the priesthood by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann at Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa.

Every man seeking a vocation to the priesthood encounters his own challenges and it was no different for Deacon Schiffelbein. One of his was his eyesight. Early-onset macular degener-

ation has left him legally blind, although he will probably never be totally blind.

“In my studies it took me more time to read with video magnification devices. Or if I could get my hands on them, I really liked to use audio books,” he said. “As I got deeper into theology, those books became harder and harder to find.”

He budgeted his time and developed a very good memory.

“In terms of ministry, there’s a lot I’ve already memorized,” he said. “I’ve memorized Eucharistic Prayer 3, and I’m working on Eucharistic Prayer 1 and 2.”

He uses a portable video magnifier to read the Gospel and for parts of the Mass he hasn’t memorized.

One of the challenges Deacon Schiffelbein will face as a result of his eyesight is transportation. Even here, however, he sees a silver lining. By asking others to provide transportation, he is including them in his ministry.

“It’s one of the bigger challenges, but it’s not insurmountable,” said Deacon Schiffelbein. “As a deacon, I found that people were quite willing to help in any way they could.”

Last movie seen: “Click” (on a twohour bus ride in downtown. Man, I love rush hour in Chicago!)

Favorite TV show: “The Simpsons” (although its quality has suffered as of late) Favorite musical group: I’m partial to a jazz group known as the Michel Brecker Quartet, which no longer exists because Brecker passed away.

Brush with the famous/ infamous: I saw Mikhail Gorbachev’s motorcade in Washington, D.C., when I was in the third grade. I was also near the stage at one event when Pope Benedict XVI was in New York.

Most inspirational Christian I’ve met: Dr. Kate Wiskus, who teaches at Mundelein. She has a lot of experience in parishes and is very practical. She makes you feel like putting on your boots and going to work.

Books now reading: Joseph Pieper’s “The Concept of Sin”; “William Barry’s “The Practice of Spiritual Direction.” I just finished Father David Toups’ “Reclaiming Our Priestly Character,” and have started Pope John Paul II’s “Letters to My Brother Priests.”

Favorite food: Thai and other Asian cuisine Favorite childhood toy: A little stuffed bear called “Wish” Dream vacation: I suppose it would have to include mountains, so I could enjoy the beauty of nature and solitude.

Best job I’ve ever had: a graduate teaching assistant at KU If I couldn’t be a priest, I’d be: Zoot, the saxophonist from the Muppets Hobbies: Playing and listening to jazz and classical music; cooking; talking with friends If I were sent on a difficult missionary journey, I’d take: Thérèse of the Child Jesus If I had a church history time machine, I’d: realize it’s not good to toy with divine providence Best advice I’ve received: The Holy Spirit is the giver of wisdom. If you don’t hear the Spirit speaking, it’s best to keep your mouth shut.

Advice to vocations seekers: Ask God to help you recognize your deepest desires. Ultimately, these are the ways he leads us to our vocation. Also, seek the advice of others, especially a spiritual director.

Discernment can’t go on forever.

Look at where the evidence is pointing, pray, decide, and don’t look back. God will work with whatever decision we make.

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‘THIS IS WHAT YOU SHOULD BE DOING’

By JOE BOLLIG

hen you’re a teenager, cool matters. And it mattered to Matthew Schiffelbein while he was growing up in Sacred Heart Parish in Topeka.

Homilies about vocations, given by his parish priest, made him uncomfortable because they hit so close to home.

Still, Schiffelbein found it difficult to relate, because the only pastors he’d ever known were elderly — not cool.

Then a new associate pastor came to work with the parish youth group: Father Bill Bruning.

“Generally we all thought that he was pretty cool, because he was young and really buff; he knew a lot about the faith; and he was excited to work with the youth,” said Deacon Schiffelbein.

“At that point, priests started to become cool to me.”

Although that little hint about a vocation to the priesthood drifted to the back of Schiffelbein’s mind, the hunger to learn more about — and more actively practice his Catholic faith — did not. He studied music at Washburn University in Topeka, but also spent a lot of time at the Catholic Campus Center there.

“As I look back on it, I noticed a thirst for living out a deeper understanding of the faith,” he said. “It was really a time of searching, and the idea of priesthood kept running around in the back of my mind.”

After Washburn, Schiffelbein studied music at the University of Kansas, and became involved in the St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center. He took a lot of classes and hung out with like-minded students.

“Their classes in theology were very helpful in filling that void I felt while at Washburn — wanting to know more, but not knowing where to look,” he said.

“It also helped me establish a more regular practice of prayer,” he continued. “I got to know other people who were discerning their vocation.

Discerning a vocation was an acceptable thing to do, and I think it opened some doors.”

Finally, the choice came down to music or the priesthood. Schiffelbein loved music and thought maybe he could live happily ever after as a musician and teacher. Even so, it wasn’t enough. “[The answer] came while I was making a Holy Hour of adoration at the St. Lawrence Center,” he said. “I was praying over [the] John 10 [passage], about the good shepherd, when it all started to click. Christ was the good shepherd, and priests are shepherds.

That’s what I wanted to be: a shepherd, to lead people to God.” He decided to enter the seminary and put the nagging question to rest, one way or another. Now, on May 23,

LOCAL NEWS

ome guys grow up wanting to be a priest. Not Andrew Strobl.

By the time he was a college student, Strobl could best be described as a “hit-and-miss” Catholic. Sometimes he made it to Mass, and sometimes he didn’t. It depended on whether or not he was at a debate tournament.

Strobl was at a Catholic College Student Convention one year when he ran into Father Brian Schieber, former chaplain at Roeland Park’s Bishop Miege High School, from which Strobl graduated.

“You know, I always wanted to talk to you about becoming a priest,” Father Schieber told him.

Strobl was stunned. He had never thought it was an option. At the time, he was barely practicing his faith.

When he rejoined his friends, he told them about his encounter. You really ought to consider it, they told him.

You’d make a good priest.

Deacon Andrew Strobl will be ordained a priest by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann at 10:30 a.m. on May 23 at Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa. With God’s help, he will be a good priest.

“That’s the crazy thing about discernment,” said Deacon Strobl.

“Sometimes we’re so wrapped up in ourselves that we forget it’s the church that discerns.”

While he was growing up, his family belonged to St. Peter Parish in Kansas City, Mo. He went to the parish school, and then to Bishop Miege. While there, he discovered he had a talent for debate. That talent won him a scholarship to Washburn University in Topeka. He competed against — and beat — teams from much larger schools.

The problem was that he missed Mass every tournament weekend.

During Advent of his sophomore year, a friend invited Strobl to go to confession with him.

“It was the first time I’d chosen to go to confession on my own,” said Deacon Strobl. “It was also the first time I told the priest everything. I didn’t hold anything back. I gave it all over to Christ.

And at that moment, I felt this deep hunger to know, learn about, and love God more.”

He began to devour books about the Catholic faith, visiting Catholic Web sites, watching EWTN and listening to Catholic radio. He began to pray more and became involved in the Washburn Catholic Campus Center. It was about that time that he encountered Father Schieber at the convention.

During his junior year, he went to Mass and heard a retired archdiocesan priest give a homily.

Personally Speaking

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FATHER ANDREW STROBL Age: 27 Born: June 12, 1981 Parents: Joseph and Phyllis Strobl Siblings: One brother Education: Bishop Miege, 2000; Washburn University, bachelor’s in legal and political communication, 2004 Seminary: University of St. Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary

“It was while he was giving the homily that I experienced this clarity like I never experienced before,” said Deacon Strobl. “It was a sense of ‘this is what you should be doing.’ Once I got that clarity, this freedom also hit me.”

He went home and told his mother, without any hint or prior warning, about his new vision for life.

“Hey, Mom, I’m going to become a priest!” he told her.

Needless to say, she was shocked, but quickly recovered and supported him from then on. Strobl contacted Father Schieber and began to visit seminaries with other young men discerning vocations. He joined a Samuel Group led by the Apostles of the Interior Life at the St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center.

Finally, he asked his debate coach if she could guarantee he wouldn’t miss Mass while at tournaments. When she couldn’t, he quit the squad and gave up his scholarship.

He never looked back. Nor does he have any regrets about choosing the priesthood.

“I’m looking forward to being a confessor,” said Deacon Strobl.

“Confession played such a huge role in my life. Having those floodgates of grace open up — being so undeserving of love but needing it so badly — is an experience I can’t wait to offer to others.”

M-F 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Sat. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. | Summer Months: Sat. 10 a.m to 3 p.m.

Last movie seen: “Star Trek” Favorite TV show: anything on MLB network; “The Office”; and the new “Battlestar Galactica” Favorite Web site: www.whispersintheloggia.blogspot. com Favorite musical group: Coheed and Cabria My most notable encounter with the famous/infamous: We ran into Father John Corapi at a restaurant.

Our group of seminarians was giddy with excitement when we asked for his blessing.

The most inspirational Christian I’ve met: Serra Club member Wally Foote. She helped my mom clean my room and move me out. That’s heroic virtue!

Books now reading: “Preparation for Total Consecration” by St. Louis de Montfort Favorite food: bacon, apple fritters and pecan pie Favorite childhood toy: He-Man swing set Dream vacation: Go to all the games, home and away, the next time the Royals are in the World Series Worst job I’ve ever had: substitute physical education teacher, or working at a lumber company carrying bags of cement all summer Best job I’ve ever had: teaching Totus Tuus or substitute junior high religious education teacher at Most Pure Heart of Mary School, Topeka If I couldn’t be a priest, I’d be: a stay-at-home dad, raise basset hounds, and coach high school speech and debate Hobbies: fantasy football and baseball; Kansas City Royals; tabletop war-gaming; concerts; reading; and movies If I were sent on a difficult missionary journey, the saint I’d take with me would be: Mother Xavier Ross. She did a bang-up job when the Sisters of Charity came to Kansas. Plus, she liked pancakes!

If I had a church history time machine, I’d: go back to my confirmation so I could remember what name I chose. (Was it St. Herbert or St. Hubert?)

Best advice I’ve received: The Christian faith is worth your entire life or it’s worth nothing.

My advice for someone seeking their vocation: Meet as many priests and religious as possible, place your discernment in Mary’s care, grow in a personal relationship with Jesus in the Eucharist, and ask God to purify your heart so you can be open to anything he calls you to.

6 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • MAY 22, 2009

AN INSTRUMENT OF GOD’S GRACE

By JOE BOLLIG Leaven staff atrick Sullivan knew what he wanted when he grew up: a badge and a gun. He wanted to be a police officer.

“I never, never really thought about being a priest,” said Deacon Sullivan.

“I never thought about it. I wanted to be married,” he continued. “I thought I’d have a nine-to-five career. The main thing I wanted to do was be a police officer.”

OK, maybe “never.”

There was one time when he was about seven or eight years old. It was a Sunday and he was sick, so his parents went to Mass and he stayed home. So, he decided to set up a TV tray as his “altar,” break open a can of Pringles for his “hosts,” and celebrate his own “Mass.”

But that was the last inkling of a priestly vocation — until he was 29.

While he was growing up, Sullivan’s family went to St. John Francis Regis Church in Kansas City, Mo. He then attended Archbishop O’Hara High School in Kansas City, Mo. After graduation, when most of his peers went off to college, he worked as an evidence technician with the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department for four years.

Although he went on to apply to one suburban Kansas City area police department after another, he was turned down by each one. A police officer friend told him why: It was because Deacon Sullivan is an insulin-dependent diabetic.

“You can’t call time-out in the middle of a car chase or a hostage situation because your blood sugar is low,” he said.

The news was a deep disappointment to Sullivan, but he accepted it philosophically and began taking evening college courses while working at other jobs.

Eventually, he got a degree in information systems technology and took a job at American Century Mutual Funds.

“I loved it,” he said. “I absolutely loved my job. I loved the people there. I was making good money. American Century was one of the top 100 companies to work for, five years in a row.”

Sullivan was well on his way up the corporate ladder, when a friend tossed him a curve ball. He invited him to go on Cursillo, the “short course in Christianity.”

“I’d fallen away from the church from the middle of high school to my late 20s,” he said. “I never renounced the faith, but I simply didn’t care. I had more important things to do — my career, the things of this world.”

Those four days of Cursillo were like a four-day “road to Damascus” for the young businessman. He experienced a profound conversion and came away with a thirst to learn more about his faith and to live it more actively. He returned to Mass, undertook RCIA and eucharistic ministry to the sick and homebound, and

Personally Speaking

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FATHER PATRICK SULLIVAN Age: 39 Born: Feb. 23, 1970 Parents: William P. and Rosemarie Sullivan Siblings: 4 — I’m the youngest of 5 Education: Archbishop O’Hara High School, Kansas City, Mo., 1988; bachelor’s in management information systems, Park University, Parkville, Mo., 2000 Seminary: University of St. Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary

began eucharistic adoration. And though he met and dated a lovely woman, they soon both realized they were not meant to be together.

Sullivan was at a crossroads and something seemed to be beckoning him.

“I remember being at home, watching TV, thinking, ‘If everything you do regarding the church — and all the stuff

you’re reading — brings you so much happiness in life, why not make it your life’s work?’” he said.

All of a sudden the realization hit him: He was thinking about becoming a priest.

Oh. My. Gosh. Next stop, the archdiocesan vocations director.

“For a long time [the priesthood] was kind of a romanticized ideal. I never really thought I’d do it, because I had a fear of the many aspects about it that I thought I couldn’t do or wasn’t worthy,” he said. “It took a while, but I did eventually enter the seminary.”

And now Deacon Sullivan will be ordained a priest at 10:30 a.m. on May 23 at Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa. He’s excited about celebrating the sacraments . . . and more.

“The thing we were taught in seminary, above and beyond all the books on theology, is just to be there for people,” said Deacon Sullivan.

“To have a ministry of presence for people when they need you the most, in the good times and bad . . . to be an instrument of God’s grace is really mindboggling,” he concluded.

Last movie seen: “Grand Torino” Favorite TV show: “The Office”; “Seinfeld” Favorite musical group: U2 My most notable encounter with the famous/infamous: Father John Corapi, SOLT. Met him in a restaurant first year in seminary.

The most inspirational Christian I’ve met: Archbishop Elias Chacour, archbishop of Galilee - Melkite Greek Catholic Church. Noted author and peace activist, keen to promote reconciliation between Arabs and Israelis Books now reading: The “Sacramentary,” in preparation for saying the Mass Favorite food: Mexican Favorite childhood toy: Tonka dump truck Dream vacation: Go back to the Holy Land and Rome and spend more time, especially in Rome Worst job I’ve ever had: busboy at a country club restaurant Best job I’ve ever had: evidence technician for the Kansas City Missouri Police Department If I couldn’t be a priest, I’d be: a pilot or police dispatcher Hobbies: flight simulation/aviation; golf; Web site development/ technology If I were sent on a difficult missionary journey, the saint I’d take with me would be: St. Maximilian Kolbe or St. Paul If I had a church history time machine, I’d: Go back to the Reformation/Counter-Reformation period and work diligently to keep people from leaving the one, holy, catholic and apostolic church, while at the same time working to correct abuses within the church that led those people to wrongly leave the church Jesus created.

Best advice I’ve received: A priest once told me to “fish or cut bait” when urging me to make a decision on whether or not to enter the seminary after wavering for a long time.

My advice for someone seeking his or her vocation: If you think you may have a call to the priesthood or religious life, don’t be afraid to talk to a priest, seminarian, or religious Brother or Sister. You have a responsibility to yourself and the church to explore a call to serve the church if you have, in fact, thought about it before. Spend a year in the seminary or religious community and discern there, away from the world. You don’t have to stay — it will only make you a better man or woman for trying; you’ll never get rid of that “itch” if you don’t scratch it.

NOTRE DAME CONTROVERSY Vigil allows Notre Dame graduates to voice concern about Obama visit

By DENNIS SADOWSKI Catholic News Service WASHINGTON (CNS) — They wore mortar boards and gowns, but they weren’t standing with the vast majority of their fellow graduates on another part of campus.

About 30 University of Notre Dame students opted to bypass the school’s traditional graduation ceremony in the Joyce Center May 17. Instead they joined several hundred people in an outdoor campus setting to offer prayers for the unborn and supporters of legal abortion during a vigil organized by a student-led group as an alternative event.

The dissenting graduates said they disagreed with the school’s decision to invite President Barack Obama, a supporter of legal abortion, to speak at the commencement and present him with an honorary degree.

During the afternoon vigil, convened at the same 2 o’clock hour that the traditional ceremony began across campus, the graduates placed white roses at a statue of Mary in an area known as the grotto after praying the rosary, organizers said.

Hundreds of others watched the events at the grotto on video screens set up a short distance away on the south quad, an open area on the south end of the campus where most of the day’s events were held.

The roses symbolized unborn children who died during an abortion, said Tyson Marx, 28, a law student who helped organize the events as a member of Notre Dame Response, a coalition that was formed soon after the school announced Obama would speak at the commencement.

“There was this real sense that we were doing something good,” he said in a telephone interview with Catholic News Service May 18. “We were trying to be positive rather than negative.”

He explained that the coalition was organized to stress the importance of authentic Catholic teaching on a Catholic campus.

The events, which began late May 16, involved traditional Catholic prayer, including overnight eucharistic adoration, Benediction, Mass and the rosary. A rally was sandwiched between the morning

CNS photo/Scott M. Bort

Graduating students who chose not to attend their graduation toss their caps during a vigil for life in the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes at the University of Notre Dame in Notre Dame, Ind., May 17. The vigil was part of a demonstration against U.S. President Barack Obama as the school's commencement speaker and the recipient of an honorary degree.

Mass and the afternoon vigil.

Bishop John M. D’Arcy of Fort WayneSouth Bend, Ind., one of more than 50 bishops who voiced their disapproval of Obama’s appearance on campus, spoke during the noontime rally to a crowd which two organizers estimated at about 3,000.

The gathering included students, Notre Dame alumni and pro-life activists from as far away as Louisiana and California, organizers said.

Father Frank Pavone, national director of Priests for Life, led the graduates in a reflection on the glorious mysteries during the vigil. The third glorious mystery, Pentecost, can serve as a reminder that the Holy Spirit provides the grace to lead people to advocate for the most vulnerable, particu-

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larly the unborn, he told the gathering.

“The Holy Spirit makes us take risks.

It’s not only preaching but doing, laying down our safety and popularity,” he told CNS May 18.

He criticized Notre Dame officials for failing to take the risk to “lay down earthly prestige for the sacredness of life.”

During the interview with CNS, Father Pavone also commended the students for their stance.

“They [students] were pure in their intention,” he said. “They were so completely willing to witness. They were not bitter. They were like, ‘This is what commencement is about. We’re starting our life in witness to the community of life.’”

Off campus, at least 39 people were arrested on trespassing charges during a

May 17 morning protest, the last of several high-profile events organized by abortion opponents in recent weeks. Norma McCorvey, the plaintiff identified as “Roe” in the 1973 Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision that legalized abortion, was among those arrested. She now opposes abortion.

John Daly, a 2008 Notre Dame graduate who has spent the last year volunteering at a South Bend medical clinic, said Notre Dame Response had no connection with the off-campus protesters.

“We wanted to give witness and use it as a springboard that what we’re doing here is going to have an effect in our society, our culture,” Daly explained. “We’re going to tell people that we’re not a group that’s radical. We’re mainstream, a group of students who feel they need to do what’s right.”

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The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is one busy place. Here are a few highlights from recent events in the archdiocese.

▲

AROUND AND ABOUT

WALK THIS WAY

The annual St. Thomas Aquinas Walk for Life on April 25 brought out more than 300 participants and raised more than $14,000 — an increase of $500 despite the economic doldrums. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann led the opening prayer and offered words of encouragement. Morgan Cunning, a freshman, made it a generational event by hiking with her mother and grandmother.

Teacher and head boys basketball coach Sean Reilly covered the distance with his dog. The participants traveled a seven-mile route, from the school in Overland Park to the Advice and Aid Pregnancy Center at 11031 W. 75th Terr., Shawnee. The event was sponsored by the Aquinas Teens for Life. The funds raised were donated to the Grace Center, the Wyandotte Pregnancy Clinic, Advice and Aid Pregnancy Center, Birthright, and Kansans for Life. Photo by Susan McSpadden

▲ HARD AT PLAY Five-year-old Anson (left) and Blaize Appelhanz, 3, play after

takes an awkward shot off the back of his donkey while Miege senior Joe Schultz tries to block the shot during a donkey ball game held on April 14 in the Miege gym.

The game was sponsored by the student council to raise money for charity.

Photo by Elaina Cochran

▲

▲ PONY UP Bishop Miege teacher Matt Eshelbrenner

Mass at Topeka’s Mother Teresa of Calcutta Parish’s pro-life playground. Installed last winter and blessed by Archbishop Joseph Naumann during his March 7-8 pastoral visit to the parish, the playground has become a center of activity for children of the parish and the surrounding neighborhood.

Featuring swings, monkey bars, a climbing wall and slides, the space also includes a granite bench donated by Lardner Monuments. The bench is engraved with the words: CHOOSE LIFE — DEDICATED TO ALL THE CHILDREN WHO NEVER HAD A CHANCE TO PLAY. According to the parish’s pastor, Father Bill Bruning, the inscription is an all-encompassing pro-life message because it reminds people of those children lost not only through abortion, but also those children who have been lost due to miscarriages and stillbirths. The approximately $20,000 project was the work of Knights of Columbus Council No. 534. Photo by Marc Anderson

GOTTA CUT LOOSE

Nursing student Cheryl Ray, Donnelly College president Steve LaNasa, Commissioner John Mendes, and Commissioner Thomas Cooley join Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann in the April 29 ribbon-cutting of Marian Hall, Donnelly’s second academic building.

The archdiocese donated Marian Hall to the college in 2007. Marian Hall will house Donnelly’s new Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program. The first two floors of Marian Hall were converted into classrooms for these programs, yielding an additional 25 percent of instructional space to the college. This includes three large lecture rooms and seven smaller classrooms; clinical space with an observation room; physiology and anatomy labs; two nursing resource rooms; and an elementary education lab/ clinical room. Photo by Susan McSpadden

▲ CHECKMATE Bishop Ward High School hosted its annual Wyandotte County Catholic Grade School Chess Tournament on April 29 at Bishop Ward, 708 N. 18th St., Kansas City, Kan. Forty students in grades four through eight competed in the tournament both as individuals and on school teams. The students were from a home school and from the five Catholic grade schools in Wyandotte County: Christ the King, Holy Name, Our Lady of Unity, St. Patrick, and Resurrection. Clockwise from the bottom left are the eighth-grade competitors: Aldro Contreras from Resurrection, Zane Merry from Holy Name, Kurt Jones from St. Patrick, Andrew Kump from St. Patrick, Cameron Byers from Christ the King, Jacob Cushing from Holy Name, and Jose Perez from Resurrection.

10 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • MAY 22, 2009

Organ concert set for June 7 at St. Mary Church, St. Benedict ST. BENEDICT — Marie Rubis Bauer, organist at St. Cecilia Cathedral in Omaha, Neb., will perform a free organ concert at St. Mary Church here on June 7 at 2 p.m. The program will include selections reflecting the Irish and German roots of St. Mary Parish, including the glorious music of Johann Sebastian Bach. Other selections will feature organ music that would have been heard in 1859 at the time of the founding of the parish.

Bauer has lived in Lawrence since 1987, attending the University of Kansas and serving as musician at St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kan., and at the St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center at KU. She is married to Michael Bauer, professor of organ and director of the church music program at KU. Bauer divides her time between her work in Omaha and her home in Lawrence.

Bauer holds degrees in organ from the University of Kansas and Augustana College in Rock Island, Ill. She has performed recitals and series throughout the United States and in Europe. She has regularly performed for, presented workshops at, and addressed conventions and conferences of national professional organizations of church music and organ.

She has published articles in the area of worship and music and is a contributing author to two books. As organist, conductor, harpsichordist

THE LEAVEN • MAY 22, 2009

Parish nursing ministry provides basic services Continued from page 1

Marie Rubis Bauer and producer, she is featured on five compact disc recordings.

She returns to St. Benedict after having brought a choir from the St. Lawrence Center in 1999 to sing for a Mass and concert.

The organ at St. Mary Church was installed in 1916. Manufactured by the Hinners Organ Company of Pekin, Ill., it has 17 ranks and 932 pipes. Quimby Organ Company in Warrensburg, Mo., restored the mechanical action instrument in 1983.

the homebound parishioners and give them Communion, after which Stewart would check the parishioners’ blood pressure and do a quick evaluation. Stewart and Sister Ann would then encourage the parishioners to make a doctor’s appointment if necessary.

Gradually, Sister Ann began to meet other nurses in the parish.

“I met Debbie Haas at the hospital and she was always very helpful with our parishioners,” Sister Ann said.

“Then Pat Gehr offered to help me with some advice. She also helped me get someone to the hospital that needed care,” she continued. “Then Alice Young volunteered to help but wasn’t working as a nurse, and I kept thinking and thinking that I should be using her wonderful talents in the medical area.”

The idea of providing health services — and, indeed, the people with the skills required to provide those services — just kept cropping up.

Sister Ann decided this year it was high time to do something about it. So she enlisted the help of parishioners Young, Haas and Lori Harris to establish the parish’s nursing ministry as part of the Ministry to the Aging.

Now, approximately 30 nurses active in the parish nursing ministry provide basic nursing services to parishioners of all ages: free monthly blood pressure checks after Mass, safety evaluations for the homebound, referrals to other community organizations, and basic education about diabetes, hypertension and other cardiac issues.

The needs of parishioners are great, and the program works to meet as many of them as possible.

“Sister [Ann] and I have talked many, many times about the various nursing needs of parishioners,” Haas said. “This [new nursing ministry] will help address a few of those needs, hopefully — not just to the elderly and homebound parishioners, but parishioners of all ages.”

Merlin and Barbara Wilson, members of Mater Dei Parish, Topeka, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on June 6 with a reception and dance at 7 p.m. at the ANNIVERSARIES Capitol Plaza Hotel, Shawnee Ballroom, hosted by their children. The couple was married on June 6, 1959, at St. Ignatius Loyola Church, Houghton, Mich. Their children and their spouses are: Julia and Rod Meek, from Missouri; Debra and Terry Allen, Tim and Susan Wilson, and Derek Wilson, all of Topeka. They also have five grandchildren.

Richard and Margaret (Towle) Foster, members of St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Lapeer, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary at the 4 p.m.

Mass on June 6. There will be an open house reception from 2 to 4 p.m. on May 31 at the American Legion Hall in Overbrook. The couple was married on June 4, 1949, at St. Patrick Church, Scranton. Their children and their spouses are: Jim and Kathy Foster, Carbondale; and Deb and John Wallace, Olathe. They also have six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Ruth and Leroy Lickteig, members of St. John the Baptist Parish, Greeley, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on May 30 with a Mass, dinner and dance at the church and parish hall. The couple was married on April 4, 1959, at St. Francis Xavier Church in Tulsa, Okla. Their children and their spouses are: Dan and Denise Lickteig, Dennis and Anita Lickteig, and Mike and Shari Mount, all of Olathe; and Jim Lickteig, Richmond.

They also have eight grandchildren.

Regis and Cindy Henry, members of St. Patrick Parish in Corning, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on May 24 with a 10 a.m. Mass at the church. Their children and grandchildren will host an open house at the Corning Community Building from 2-4 p.m. The couple was married on May 21, 1959, at St. Bede Church in Kelly.

Windell and Nina Day, members of St. Patrick Parish, Kansas City, Kan., will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on June 3.

They were married June 3, 1959.

LOCAL NEWS 11

Sister Mary Georgia Dwyer, SCL LEAVENWORTH — Sister Mary Georgia Dwyer, 82, a Sister of Charity of Leavenworth, died May 17 at the motherhouse here.

Shirley Ann Dwyer was born on March 28, 1927, in Butte, Mont., the only child of George Edward and Romayne Boyd Howard Dwyer. She graduated from St. Patrick Grade School and Girls Central High School, Butte. She entered the religious community of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth on Aug. 14, 1945, and, as Sister Mary Georgia, made her profession of vows on Aug. 15, 1947.

After profession, she taught in elementary schools in Kansas, Missouri, Colorado, Illinois, Montana, and Wyoming for over 40 years. From 1988-1996, she was principal at Sacred Heart School in Topeka. After leaving the classroom and returning to the in Leavenworth, Sister Mary Georgia became a Obituary motherhouse reading tutor in the Foster Grandparents Program. She retired to Ross Hall at the motherhouse in August 2004.

Sister Mary Georgia received a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of Saint Mary, Leavenworth, and a master’s in education, specializing in reading, from Emporia State University.

Survivors include uncles Hank Boyd, Kansas City, Kan., and Bernard Boyd, Middle Village, N.Y.

Scouts earn rank of Eagle LEAWOOD — Jake Kennedy, Kyle Rall and Chris Moyer, of Boy Scout Troop 333, recently earned the rank of Eagle Scout in a ceremony at St. Michael the Church Eagle Scouts Archangel here. Troop 333 is sponsored by St. Michael’s.

The Eagles performed the following service projects: Kennedy collected new and used video games and game systems for use at the

Gillis Center, a home for high-risk boys in Kansas City, Mo. Rall rebuilt a parking lot island at St. Michael by adding an irrigation system, planting shrubs and trees, and installing a concrete pad with a Ten Commandments monument on it.

Moyer’s service project involved the construction and mounting of 18 bluebird nesting boxes, as a conservation project at Ironwoods Park in Leawood.

12 CLASSIFIEDS ■ EMPLOYMENT P art -t ime s ecuri ty p osi t ion - Savior Pastoral Center has an immediate opening for a night and weekend part-time security person. On-site lodging is provided as the individual is required to live at the center.

Position is responsible for security, caretaking and light custodial duties. Ideal candidate will have some security/custodial experience. Work hours vary and average 15 – 20 hours per week. Applicants may fax a cover letter and resume to Kathy Thomas, director of human resources, at (913) 721-2680 or send, via e-mail, to: kthomas@archkck.org .

St. James Academy - Is seeking applicants for a chemistry/physics position for the 2009 - 10 school year. Applicants for this position must hold a valid Kansas teaching license. To apply, send an e-mail to Andy Tylicki at: atylicki@sjakeepingfaith. org or apply online at: www.sjakeepingfaith.org.

Administrative assistant/receptionist - Corpus Christi School, Lawrence, is searching for a dynamic individual to play a key role for the administration as a school secretary. This person must possess superb computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Publisher, and Excel, and be able to keep calendars in Outlook. Excellent writing and phone skills are a must, as well as the ability to multitask, all while providing a warm and safe place for students and parents alike.

This individual will provide clerical assistance to the administration. Send resume, references, and salary requirements to: Corpus Christi Catholic School, attention Mrs. Mary Mattern, 6001 Bob Billings Parkway, Lawrence, KS 66049, or send, via e-mail, to: trisha@ corpuschristilks.org.

Part-time bookkeeper - For Catholic Charities of Kansas City-St. Joseph. Applicants must have a high school diploma plus a minimum of two years of accounting experience. An associate degree in finance or management is preferred. Requirements include: good organizational and computer skills; the ability to work effectively, both independently and as part of a team; and excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Problem solving and reasoning skills are essential. For complete details, visit the Web site at: www.diocesekcsj.org. Send a cover letter and resume to Tony Johnson at Catholic Charities, 1112 Broadway, Kansas City MO 64105 or send, via e-mail, to: Ftjohnson@ ccharities.com.

Human resources manager - Catholic Charities of Kansas City-St. Joseph is seeking a skilled and inspiring leader to manage human resources. The ideal candidate will be an articulate, critical thinker with problemsolving capabilities who will strengthen the long-term vision of our organization by creating innovative strategies, facilitating teamwork, and uniting diverse constituencies around common solutions. Requirements include: a degree in human resources, management, business or a related field; a strong understanding of the human resources discipline; and 3 - 5 years experience. PHR or SPHR certification is preferred. For complete details, visit the Web site at: www.diocesekcsj.org. Send a cover letter and resume to Tony Johnson at Catholic Charities, 1112 Broadway, Kansas City MO 64105 or send, via e-mail, to: Ftjohnson@ ccharities.com.

Di re ct or of li t u rgy a n d wors h i p - St. Charles Borromeo Parish and School, a faith family of 1600+ families desires a team-building, baptismal call inviter as director of liturgy and worship for overall responsibility of coordinating and implementing the liturgical experiences of our parish and school. Our DLW will invite, train and facilitate/supervise the roles of the various liturgical ministries; extend leadership and direction to all church choirs, cantors and instrumentalists; assist engaged couples in planning their marriage liturgy, and grieving families for funeral liturgies.

Keyboardists preferred. Salary commensurate to experience and diocesan scale. Resumes to: Father Ken Riley, St. Charles Borromeo Parish, 900 N.E. Shady Lane Drive, Kansas City MO 64118.

Sales - Jockey, a 132-yr-old company, is seeking women reps. for its newest direct sales division, Jockey Person-to-Person — comfort, casual & athletic clothes. Flexible; full or part time; work at home.

Ground-floor opportunity; unlimited income potential.

Openings in KC metro, and cities in Kan. and Mo. Call Julie at (913) 681-6313.

Financial representative - 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, high-energy, high-expectation, professional, self-disciplined, independent individual desiring to serve others, yet earn a betterthan-average income. We provide top-rated financial products to our members and their families and will

THE LEAVEN • MAY 22, 2009 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.

Coaches - Bishop Ward High School, Kansas City, Kan., is seeking a head girls basketball, a head boys soccer, and a head track coach for the 2009 - 10 school year. Mail resume to the attention of Joel Heider, athletic director, at: 708 N. 18th St., Kansas City, KS 66102, or send via e-mail to: jheider@wardhigh.org.

Working from home and loving it! - Work with a team of moms to own your own business. Helping moms work from home. No selling, no parties, no inventory, no risk. For information, visit the Web site at: www.MomsForGreen.com.

■ SERVICES

All Lawn Services/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.

Golf l ess ons th at l ast ! 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.

Housecleaning – Reasonable rates; reliable service; excellent references. JoCo area preferred. Call Kathy at (913) 829-1606.

Enjoy your summer more - Let me do the housecleaning for you! Excellent service; reasonable rates. I have been cleaning exclusively for Leaven readers for 13+ years. Call Judy at (913) 709-8130.

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

CNA home heal th care professional - Provides quality, personal, and attentive care for seniors and the homebound. Over 20 years experience; excellent references and reasonable rates. Let me reduce your stress and help you keep your loved one at home for as long as possible. Call Rosalyn at (816) 830-7455.

Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation to the elderly and disabled in home, assisted living and nursing facilities. We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Andrea, Sara or Gary.

Do you need hel p caring for an el derly 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.

Bankruptcy - When debt becomes overwhelming, seek professional help. Experienced, compassionate Catholic attorney Teresa Kidd. For a confidential, no obligation consultation, call (913) 422-0610; or send an e-mail to: tkidd@kc.rr.com.

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.

■ HOME IMPROVEMENT

REMODELING & REPAIRS Quality work at reasonable prices. Baths, kitchens, basements and door replacements. Member of Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish, Overland Park.

Ralph Pruente at (913) 631-1115 Masonry/Carpentry -Brick, block, stone, and tile.

Interior and exterior. Restoration work and new design.

Over 10 years experience. Call Ken at (913) 232-9796.

Residential remodeling - Deck construction, interior remodeling, basement finishing, painting, etc.

Licensed and insured residential contractor and Prince of Peace parishioner with 13 years of experience and excellent references. Call Nathan at (913) 208-6130.

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

THE LEAVEN • MAY 22, 2009 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.

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

House painting - Interior and exterior; wallpaper removal. 20 years experience. Reasonable rates.

References. Call Joe at (913) 620-5776.

Adept Home Improvements Where quality still counts!

Basement finishing, Kitchens and baths, Electrical and plumbing.

Licensed and insured.

(913) 599-7998 Deck W ork s - 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).

C ustom-ki tchen 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) 9625058.

Woodbright - A very affordable alternative to refinishing, refacing or replacing stained cabinets and woodwork. The average kitchen only costs $500. 18 years experience. Call Woodbright at (913) 940-3020.

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

T im t he H an dy ma n - Insured; free estimates.

Carpentry: new and repair deck, doors, windows, siding, screens. Plumbing: faucet, garbage disposals, toilets. Electrical: switches, outlets, ceiling fans, light fixtures. Light landscape: fill dirt, trimming, planting, garden tilling and mulching. Serving Johnson County. Call Tim at (913) 859-0471.

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.

S T A (S u r e Th in g A l w ay s ) H o m e R e 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

■ REAL ESTATE

Oak Tree Meadows, Overland Park - 12709 W. 116th. Just four houses from Stoll Park entry. Walk to St. Thomas Aquinas High and JCCC. This large, 4 BR, 21/2 BA home boasts new carpet in finished, walk-out LL; new roof, windows and siding; new entry and fresh paint. Huge, fenced yard with deck and covered patio.

Priced at $209,950. Call Rosemary, Masters GMAC Real Estate, at (913) 661-9744.

Bran son golf v illa - New 4 BR, 4 BA; sleeps 10.

Adjacent to new Tribute Golf Club Branson, a Payne Stewart club. $300/night or $250/four+ nights. Call Sharon or Jed Ervin at (816) 519-4910 or (913) 681-1137.

To view online, go to: www.bransonhills development. com; click on the lodging link two times.

L a k e h o u s e – Beautiful and private Lake Kahola, less than two hours from the KC area. Only 10 miles off I-35 at the Emporia exit. This home sleeps 10+ with a 2-car garage, plus a private boat ramp and dock. Located at the water’s edge on a quiet cove. Call Cy at (316) 262-0888.

■ CHILD CARE

Summer babysitting - Experienced and responsible college freshman looking for babysitting opportunities around Curé of Ars Parish. Available Mon. - Sat., days and most evenings; now through mid-August. Call Kim at (913) 660-5558 or (913) 381-3119.

Need a brea k from th e ki ds? - Fun, energetic and responsible Miege junior would love to care for and entertain your children this summer. Available anytime — days or evenings. Would prefer the Leawood, Overland Park or Prairie Village areas.

Excellent references. Call or text (913) 972-8595.

N an ny - Notre Dame de Sion graduate and KState sophomore looking for summer position as a nanny. Ascension parishioner, flexible hours, have own transportation. Nine years experience with kids up to age 12, and lots of fun! Call Annie Davis at (913) 669-4222 or e-mail her at: ladavis8@ksu.edu.

■ MISCELLANEOUS

Your personal organic garden - Earth-friendly mowing and garden nanny services. We build raised gardens beds with all organic material; untreated wood, organic soil, and non-genetically engineered seeds. We are turning back time with a reel mower; reduce the emission of fossil fuel. We keep your gardens in tip-top shape while you are working overtime or out-of-town. Call Janet at (913) 4855850 or visit the Web site at: www.glohealthy.com.

■ FOR SALE

Wurlitzer organ – Double keyboard; one owner; great sound. Located in Seneca. $500 or best offer. Call (785) 336-2738.

Bulk mulch - $35 per cu. yd. delivered (within our delivery area with a 2-yard minimum order) OR $70 per cu. yd. delivered and spread. Contact Joe Keehn at (913) 631-7217 or (913) 449-9848 or visit the Web site at: www.mokanmulch.com.

Residential lifts - Buy/sell/trade. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. Recycled and new equipment. Member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood. Call Silver Cross® KC at (913) 393-2042.

■ WANTED TO BUY *** BUYING *** Coins — Sterling — Watches I buy coins, old watches, sterling silverware, postcards, photographs, military items, political campaign pins, Zippo lighters, fountain pens, toys, slot machines, old signs & tins, quilts, Indian rugs, beadwork, baskets, pottery and 22-gauge rifles. Call Chris at (913) 593-7507 or (913) 642-8269.

Will buy firearms and related accessories - One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee. *** Wanted to Buy *** Antique and vintage costume jewelry Member St. Joseph Parish Renee Maderak (913) 631-7179

■ VACATION

■ ENTERTAINMENT

Mountain cabin in Winter Park, Colo. – 2 BR, 1 BA. View of Continental Divide from deck. Close to points of interest and activities. $95/night. Call (913) 642-3027.

For pictures, visit the Web site at: cabin.forcade associates.com.

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

Summer vacation - Winter Park, Colo. 2 BR, 1 BA, sleeps six. Fully furnished, fireplace, rec center w/pool, fishing, golf, hiking, rafting, close to nat’l park. $100/night; $600/week. Call Joe Frederick at (913) 3855589.

TO PURCHASE A CLASSIFIED Send an e-mail to: jennifer@the leaven. com, or call (913) 647-0327.

May 22-23

Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish, Topeka, will host its annual summerfest on May 22 - 23. An Italian dinner will be served on May 21 from 4:30 -7 p.m. Events include a garden emporium, book sale, carnival games and rides, bingo, concessions, a silent auction, a raffle and a dance. For information, contact Angie Gabel at (785) 221-4688 or send an e-mail to: hairks@aol.com.

23

A singles extravaganza will be held on May 23 at the Doubletree Hotel, College Blvd. and Alt. 69 Hwy., Overland Park. Mingles hour from 6 - 7 p.m.; booths and keynote speaker from 7 - 8 p.m.; dancing from 8 p.m. - midnight to Platinum Express, a 12-piece band with a brass section. Tickets cost $15 if purchased by May 17; $20 at the door. For tickets, mail check to: P.O. Box 14321, Kansas City MO 64152. For information, visit the Web site at: www.zepster.com/ dances.asp, or call (816) 292-2848.

28-30

information or to register, visit the Web site at: www.kccatholichomeschooler.org.

30

St. Vincent De Paul Parish, 206 E. 3rd St., Onaga, will host a fried chicken supper from 4 - 7 p.m. on June 6 at the Onaga Community Center. There will also be bingo and games.

Curé of Ars Parish, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood, will host a huge garage sale from 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. on May 28 and 29 and from 8:30 a.m. noon on May 30 in the school cafeteria.

The Singles of Nativity will host a “Welcome Summer” beach partythemed dance from 7:30 - 11:30 p.m. on May 30 in the parish hall, located on the lower level of Nativity Church, 3800 W. 119th St., Leawood. Grab your shorts and favorite Hawaiian shirt and join the fun!

The cost is $15 for members; $20 for guests. For information, visit the Web site at: www.son-ministry.org.

Sophia Center, 751 S. 8th St., Atchison, will host “St. Teresa of Avila, Mystic: Listening to the Voice of Your Soul,” presented by Sister Sheila Carroll, OSF, from 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. on May 30. For information or to register, call (913) 3606151.

The Johnson County Unos will gather for 4:30 p.m. Mass on May 30 at St. Pius X Church, 5601 Woodson, Mission. Dinner will follow at Applebee’s, 6800 Johnson Dr., Mission.

24

The Knights of Columbus, Council 2332, will serve complimentary coffee and doughnuts after the 9 a.m.

Memorial Day Mass at St. Joseph Cemetery, 61st Terr. and Quivira, Shawnee. In case of rain, Mass will be celebrated at St. Joseph Church. For information, call (913) 492-3356.

St. Mary Parish, 446 K-20 Hwy., Purcell, will mark its 150th anniversary with a 4 p.m. Mass on May 30, celebrated

by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann and concelebrated by Father Earl Dekat.

Historical items will be on display and a catered meal will be served after Mass.

26-28

Divorced? Widowed?

Beginning Experience Weekend gently helps people move through their loss to a new beginning in their lives. The next weekend for the Kansas City area will be June 26 28. For information or for registration material, call John at (913) 219-3465 in Kansas City; Sue at (785) 331-2216 in Lawrence; or visit the Web site at: www.beginning experience.org.

27

“Eat Well and Be Well,” is a free program for women, presented by Karen Manley Duggan, a holistic nutrition coach. It will be offered from 9:30 - 11 a.m. on May 27 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.

“Clean and De-Clutter” will be presented by Chiquita Miller from the K-State Extension Office from 1 - 2:30 p.m. on May 27 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.

27-30

Holy Spirit Parish, 11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park, will host a parish-wide garage sale from 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. on May 27 - 29, and from 8 a.m. - noon on May 30. Proceeds will benefit Habitat for Humanity, Uplift, Santa Gertrudis Parish in Honduras, and Alexandra’s House for terminally ill infants.

7

A summer festival to benefit the Sisters, Servants of Mary will be held from noon - 5 p.m. on June 7 on the grounds of their motherhouse, located at 800 N. 18th St., Kansas City, Kan. The Sisters, Servants of Mary are a community of women religious who are skilled nurses who provide in-home nursing care free of charge. Homemade tacos and tamales, Italian sausage and barbecue beef sandwiches and more will be served. There will be games for children and craft booths.

For information, call (913) 371-3423.

6-7

Queen of the Holy RosaryWea Parish, 227th and Old Metcalf, Bucyrus, will host a parish-wide garage sale from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. on June 6 and from 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. on June 7 in the school gym. On Sunday, all items you can stuff into a trash bag will be sold for $1.

18-20

The Daughters of Isabella, Little Flower Circle 503, will host a mother-daughter dinner at noon on May 24 at Rossiter Hall, 200 S.W. 8th St., Topeka. It will be a covered-dish potluck, followed by a shower benefiting Birthright. Bring a dish to share and a baby gift.

25

6

June 1

St. Thomas Aquinas High School will host its 22nd annual Mirocke Golf Classic on June 1 at Milburn Country Club.

Individuals and groups must be registered

by May 22. For information, visit the Web site at: www.stasaints.net/mirockegolf or call (913) 319-2425.

5

The Johnson County Unos will hold their monthly meeting and potluck dinner at 6 p.m. on June 5 at St. Pius X Church, 5601 Woodson, Mission. Bring meat casseroles, salads, vegetables or desserts — enough to feed 8 — or $5 to pay for your meal.

The Catholic Lawyers Guild of Kansas City will host a Texas hold ‘em tournament on June 5 in the parish hall at the Church of the Nativity, 3800 W. 119th St., Leawood. Check-in begins at 6:30 p.m., with the tournament following from 7 - 10 p.m. A suggested donation of $20 is appreciated. Proceeds will benefit local charities. For information or to RSVP, send an e-mail to Erik at: e_bedorf@ yahoo.com.

5-6

The Kansas City Catholic Home Educators Conference will be held from June 5 - 6 at Savior Pastoral Center, 12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kan. For

Benedictine College, Atchison, will host the second annual Midwest Gregorian Chant Workshop from June 18 - 20. This workshop is both an introduction to and continuing education in singing and reading Gregorian chant. Participants will learn the music and be the chant choir at three different Masses. Father Samuel Weber, well-known for his work in the area of sacred music (especially chant), will lead the workshop.

The cost is $90 for the conference and meals; $120 for the conference, meals and double-occupancy room; or $140 for the conference, meals and a single-occupancy room. For information or to register, send an e-mail to Lucas Tappan at: ltappan80@ gmail. com.

Misc.

The Ignatian Spirituality Center of Kansas City will help you meet Christ in prayer this summer. Through prayer, reflection, and group sharing, modeled on the spiritual exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola, our program, entitled “Meeting Christ in Prayer,” will introduce participants to new methods of prayer.

Participants will meet weekly for eight weeks, beginning in mid-June, at either Ascension Parish in Overland Park, or at St. Francis Xavier Parish or Rockhurst High School in Kansas City, Mo. The cost is $20 per participant. For information on dates, times, and locations, visit the Web site at: www.ignatiancenterkc.org. The registration deadline is June 3. Scholarship opportunities are available.

Notre Dame de Sion, home of the 2008 state champions, will offer all-girl soccer camps this summer. Session I, for 2 -5 grades, will be July 6 - 9, from 8 - 10 a.m.; Session 2, for 6 - 8 grades, will be July 13 - 16, from 8 - 10 a.m. For information or to register, send an e-mail to Matt Darby at: mdarby@rockhursths.edu or visit the Web site at: www.sionstorm.com.

Bishop Miege High School, 5041 Reinhardt Dr., Roeland Park, will host youth basketball clinics for students entering 4th - 8th grade this summer. The girls clinic will be held from June 22 - 25.

CALENDAR

13

The boys clinic will be held from June 29 July 2. Both clinics will run from 9 a.m. 3 p.m. and will be held at the school.

Miege will also host the Little Stags Clinic for boys and girls entering grades K - 3 from 9 - 10:30 a.m. on June 15 - 18. For information or registration forms, contact Dolly Foley at (913) 495-9559 or visit the Web site at: www.bishopmiege. com.

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.

The Lay Dominicans, St. Martin de Porres Group, will meet at 4:30 p.m. every third Sunday of the month in the convent at St. Agnes Parish, 5250 Mission Rd., Roeland Park. For information, call Tom Smith at (816) 232-0374.

Individual and family counseling is available in English and Spanish at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. Counseling is offered in partnership with Catholic Charities; the fee is based on a sliding scale and is very affordable. Free child care is provided during some time periods. To schedule an appointment, call (913) 906-8990.

Do you or your loved one need support to break free from pornography, infidelity, or lust? The My House Men’s Group provides prayer and accountability for sexual integrity. Sam Meier, MA, LPC, is available for men’s groups and counseling, call him at (913) 647-0378, or send an e-mail to him at: smeier@archkck.org. The My House Women’s Group provides hope and healing for women who are dealing with their loved one’s struggles. Contact Beth Meier at (913) 647-0379, or send an e-mail to her at: bmeier@archkck.org. Sam and Beth work for the archdiocese, and are thankful for the healing they have experienced in their marriage. Support is confidential and from a Catholic perspective.

The Singles of Nativity will gather for round-robin-style tennis from 2:30 - 4 p.m. at the Indian Creek Recreational Center, 103rd St. and Marty, Overland Park, on Sundays throughout the spring.

Beginners are welcome; there is room for everyone. We may go out for a light dinner afterwards, because the idea is to share friendship. For information, send an email to Nancy Driscoll at: ndriscoll1@ kc.rr.com.

A poetry retreat, facilitated by Sister Mary O’Connor, a Sister of Mercy, will be held from June 18-25 at Marillac Center, 4200 S. 4th St., Leavenworth. This retreat will allow participants to enjoy the images and insights of established and contemporary poets, including the poetry of the psalms. Reading, discussing poetry and poems, and writing will be essential parts of each day. There will be opportunity for Mass, meditation and relaxation. The cost of $360 includes the retreat fee, room and board. If you would prefer to commute, the cost of $200 includes the retreat fee and noon meals. Scholarships are available based on financial need. For information, call (913) 758-6552; send an e-mail to: retreats@scls.org; or visit the Web site at: www.MarillacCenter.org.

14 COMMENTARY

THE LEAVEN • MAY 22, 2009

THE LEAVEN • MAY 22, 2009

Editor REVEREND MARK GOLDASICH, STL frmark@theleaven.com Managing Editor ANITA McSORLEY anita@theleaven.com Senior Reporter JOE BOLLIG joe@theleaven.com

Advertising Representative JENNIFER SIEBES jennifer@theleaven.com

Production Manager TODD HABIGER todd@theleaven.com

Reporter KARA HANSEN kara@theleaven.com

Catholic Press Association Award Winner 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 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) 721-5276; or e-mail at: sub@theleaven.com.

POSTMASTER : Send address changes to The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. For change of address, provide old and new address and parish.

Subscriptions $18/ year. Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.

SCRIPTURE READINGS SEVENTH WEEK OF EASTER May 24 THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD Acts 1: 1-11; Ps 47: 2-3, 6-9; Eph 1: 17-23; Mk 16: 15-20 May 25 Bede the Venerable, priest, doctor; Gregory VII, pope; Mary Magdalene de’ Pazzi, virgin Acts 19: 1-8; Ps 68: 2-5acd, 6-7ab; Jn 16: 29-33 May 26 Philip Neri, priest Acts 20: 17-27; Ps 68: 10-11, 20-21; Jn 17: 1-11a

I

Quite honestly, that’s what I was thinking this past Sunday afternoon. I wasn’t worried about the “Click It or Ticket” campaign that law enforcement is now conducting; I was wearing my seat belt, as was my mom, who was in the passenger seat.

No, I was concerned about accounting for all the “stuff” we had in the car.

It looked suspicious. First, there was the large green bag that my mom was holding on her lap. Inside were a large Phillips screwdriver, a bag of pebbles, dried-out palm branches, five footlong wooden crosses, and a little bottle of holy water.

“Uh, don’t mind us, Officer,” I could hear myself explaining, “we’re professional vampire hunters. We sprinkle them with holy water to stun them, then use the wooden crosses (with the pointed lower edge) to finish ‘em off.

And when we run out of crosses and holy water, we fend them off with the screwdriver and the pebbles.”

Convincing, am I right?

The other suspicious thing in the car was a cardboard box filled to overflowing with colorful flowers. What in the world could two people do with that many flowers? A sharp police officer would suspect that we’d stolen them.

Happily, we didn’t get stopped by the police. But why did we have all those things in the car? Simple: Mom and I were heading to Mount Calvary

Cemetery in Kansas City, Kan., to decorate graves for Memorial Day. We’d intended to go on Palm Sunday (hence, the dried-up palms) or Easter Sunday (hence, the flowers — not real ones, but pretty nonetheless), but ended up being busy both those days. Then other things intervened on subsequent Sundays — first Communion, bad weather, the Knights of Columbus state convention, Mother’s Day — explaining why we were just now, in the middle of May, heading to the cemetery.

Of course, the crosses and the flowers make sense for decorating graves, but what about those palms, the screwdriver, the pebbles and the holy water? My Grandma Modrcin (my mom’s mom) always insisted on blessed palms being placed on graves, so we do that in her honor. The screwdriver is for punching holes in the ground for the flowers and the crosses.

The holy water is sprinkled in a Sign of the Cross over the grave after praying for the person(s) buried there.

And the pebbles? Those are for my dad’s grave. He has a stone vase there and it’s tough to put flowers in it and make them secure in wind and rain.

After trying all sorts of things to no avail, the pebbles did the trick.

This last visit to the cemetery took about 90 minutes. As the years go on, it takes longer and longer, because there are more graves to visit. And naturally, as we walk to the graves of relatives, we see those of other friends and stop and pray there as well. It’s even more time-consuming once we get into the mausoleum!

But it’s time well spent. It’s a chance to remember those who have influenced our lives and helped form us into the people we are today.

To be sure, a cemetery visit is bittersweet. Our hearts can’t help but ache as we remember those we have loved who have died. Lately, though, I’ve drawn comfort from the words of this little poem by Don Blanding: “I have seen death too often to believe in death.

It is not an ending — but a withdrawal.

As one who finishes a long journey, Stills the motor, Turns off the lights, Steps from his car, And walks up the path To the home that awaits him.”

(Found in Anthony Castle’s “Quotes & Anecdotes for Preachers and Teachers.”)

Make time in the Memorial Day weekend to visit a cemetery. And don’t worry if you have no flowers or holy water or crosses or a screwdriver or pebbles. Your presence and prayers are all that’s required.

May 27 Augustine of Canterbury, bishop Acts 20: 28-38; Ps 68: 29-30, 33-36c; Jn 17: 11b-19

THE GOSPEL TRUTH

May 28 Thursday Acts 22: 30; 23: 6-11; Ps 16: 1-2a, 5, 7-11; Jn 17: 20-26 May 29 Friday Acts 25: 13b-21; Ps 103: 1-2, 11-12, 19-20ab; Jn 21: 15-19 May 30 Saturday Acts 28: 16-20, 30-31; Ps 11: 4-5, 7; Jn 21: 20-25

Miracles meant for unbelievers, not disciples

W

hich came first, the chicken or the egg?

Which comes first, faith or the facts?

NINTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME May 31 PENTECOST SUNDAY Acts 2: 1-11; Ps 104: 1ab, 24ac, 29bc-30, 31, 34; 1 Cor 12: 3b-7, 12-13; Jn 20: 19-23 June 1 Justin, martyr Tb 1: 3; 2: 1a-8; Ps 112: 1-6; Mk 12: 1-12 June 2 Marcellinus and Peter, martyrs Tb 2: 9-14; Ps 112: 1-2, 7-9; Mk 12: 13-17 June 3 Charles Lwanga, martyr, and his companions, martyrs Tb 3: 1-11a, 16-17; Ps 25: 2-9; Mk 12: 18-27 June 4 Thursday Tb 6: 10-11; 7: 1bcde, 9-17; 8: 4-9a; Ps 128: 1-5; Mk 12: 28-34 June 5 Boniface, bishop, martyr Tb 11: 5-17; Ps 146: 2, 7-10; Mk 12: 35-37 June 6 Norbert, bishop Tb 12: 1, 5-15, 20; (Ps) Tb 13: 2, 6-8; Mk 12: 38-44

Words matter — child, not choice

Cemeteries keep memories alive f we get stopped by the cops, what will I say?

Do we first believe, and then use our belief to help us to understand the consists largely of an instruction that facts of our existence? Or do we first examine the facts, and then base our Jesus gives the disciples before leaving them. That instruction emphasizes the beliefs upon them? importance of faith: “Whoever believes In a scientific age, we might choose and is baptized will be saved; whoever the second option. Isn’t that the sciendoes not believe will be tific method, to perform condemned.” the experiment and then THE ASCENSION OF Throughout the Gospel draw your conclusions THE LORD of Mark, we can find an emfrom it? On the other Mk 16: 15-20 phasis upon faith. Jesus is hand, even that approach constantly criticizing the first requires a belief — disciples for their lack of it. belief in the scientific It is appropriate that, at the conclusion method. of this Gospel, that emphasis appears We begin with faith, and that faith once again. That emphasis is strengthhelps us to understand the facts. Fides ened even more if we look at the few quaerens intellectum: (“Faith seeking verses (9-14) preceding our reading. understanding”). That is how St. In that prequel to our reading, Mary Anselm of Canterbury summed it up in Magdalene informed the disciples that the 11th century. And that aphorism Jesus was risen from the dead, but applies well to this Sunday’s Gospel they did not believe her. Next, the two reading, Mk 16:15-20. disciples who saw Jesus walking on That passage was chosen since it inthe road, presumably the two whom cludes Jesus’ ascension into heaven, the Gospel of Luke (24:13-35) dewhich we celebrate as a feast this scribes on their way to Emmaus, also Sunday: “So then the Lord Jesus, after informed the disciples that Jesus was he spoke to them, was taken up into risen from the dead, but they did not heaven.” At the same time, the passage

15

BUILDING THE CULTURE OF LIFE

MARK MY WORDS President MOST REVEREND JOSEPH F. NAUMANN

COMMENTARY

believe them.

Consistent with their earlier behavior in Mark’s Gospel, the disciples fail to believe. That is why Jesus “appeared to them and rebuked them for their unbelief and hardness of heart because they had not believed those who saw him after he had been raised.” The disciples’ unbelief provides the context for Jesus’ emphasis upon belief in Sunday’s Gospel reading: “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved.”

Jesus goes on to describe the miracles that will identify the believers: “These signs will accompany those who believe.” They will drive out demons, speak new languages. They will be protected from deadly snakes and poisons. They will cure the sick.

It is important to point out that, in this case, the belief comes first, and then the signs. It would have been easier for the disciples to witness the miracles first, and then base their faith on those signs. But that is not the sequence that Jesus indicates to them.

So then, who are the signs meant for?

Those miracles are intended for the people that the disciples will preach to.

The signs will witness to the validity of their message Jesus is indeed risen and working within the disciples.

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

O

ften before a problem can be solved, it must first be defined. This requires the proper use of words — words that clearly identify and focus on the problem.

Therefore, the misuse of words can complicate the process of resolving issues. Sometimes the misuse of words is unintentional; however, sometimes words are intentionally misused in order to deceive. “Pro-choice” is an example of a deceptive term, and its use has greatly complicated solving the problem of abortion. It is therefore gravely deceptive.

“Pro-choice” is a marketing term used and promoted heavily by the abortion industry to shift the focus away

from the horrendous issue of killing an unborn child.

“Pro-choice” attempts to shift the focus to personal choice. It is verbal sleight of hand. And, unfortunately, it has been very effective. It has been enthusiastically adopted by many politicians and others who claim to be personally opposed to abortion, but . . .

But the issue is child, not choice. As all good parents teach, choices have consequences, and the choice of abortion is a fatal consequence to the child and a tragedy for the mother.

Much of society has bought into the pro-choice marketing mentality, which can be witnessed by how infrequently we hear someone referring to oneself as pro-abortion.

“Pro-choice” has set up a false dualism that one can be personally opposed to abortion yet pro-choice. How do we help someone see the falsehood of this position? First, we should speak the truth with clarity and charity.

Hopefully, we can move someone away from an emotional position to one based upon reason. Ask questions to help individuals who call themselves pro-choice understand what this really means.

For example: What choice are you referring to? A woman’s right to choose what? So you believe that it should be legal to kill an unborn child? Help them to focus on the child. Another important line of questioning is: Do you feel that it is a valid position to be personally op-

posed to ______ (fill in the blank with one of the following: child molestation; rape; child abuse; infanticide; murder) but pro-choice on this issue?

For many people, this will help them see the false dualism of the “personally opposed but pro-choice” language. If this questioning still has not helped, another question might be: “How do you think that God’s commandment — Thou shall not kill — applies to prochoice?”

Finally, we must recognize this as a spiritual battle — a battle between the Word and the father of deception. Pray that the Holy Spirit will enlighten the consciences of all to see the truth and see the need to defend and protect all innocent life.

Mary, mother of the Word, patroness of the unborn, pray for us.

Ron Kelsey is the archdiocesan consultant for the pro-life office.

AS THE CHURCH PRAYS

‘As the church prays . . . ’ or why translations matter

B

elieve it or not, folks, it actually looks like a new English translation of the Mass is drawing close.

It’s really going to happen after all!

Nine years after a “third” postconciliar edition of the Roman Missal was announced by Pope John Paul II, and seven years after that new edition was first published in Latin (the “typical edition” from which all vernacular translations are made), the U.S. bishops are expected to vote on the final sections of the proposed English translation this November. It is estimated that, with an expected timely confirmation by the Holy See, it will take about a

year for the new missal to arrive at an altar near you.

Now, many have asked, “Why did this have to take so long?”

Well, for one thing, translating one language into another is a complex process. Considering that this translation will most likely carry the Englishspeaking church through the sacred mysteries for a long, long time, it had to be done carefully.

The process also opened up quite a discussion among bishops and scholars

about the best way of going about translating Latin into English. Should translations be word-for-word (sometimes called “literal equivalence”) or should they rather express the overall meaning of the text, even if not always word-forword (often called “dynamic equivalence”)? And, of course, there has been the argument that both methods have merits and limitations, leaving the need for some individual discretion and compromise at certain points.

Needless to say, for those who have followed the whole process these past nine years, it has been an extremely interesting journey . . . and one that’s not over just yet.

For, you see, what we say at Mass expresses what we believe about the Mass. And not only what we believe about the Mass, but in a sense, about our whole Catholic faith as well. This is summed up in a nice little phrase attrib-

uted to St. Propser of Aquitaine (c. 390c. 455): Lex orandi est lex credendi.

The literal translation of this Latin phrase is: “The law of prayer is the law of belief.” Its dynamic translation would be: “As the church prays, so it believes.”

Both get the point across, don’t they?

The words we use at Mass really matter.

They’ve been around for hundreds and hundreds of years in Latin. How we translate them into English is crucial if we are not only to celebrate the mystery of faith, but also if we are to understand the faith of mystery.

When it comes, the new translation will undoubtedly take some getting used to. But perhaps with it will come a cherished opportunity to reflect upon what we are saying about what we believe. Stay tuned.

Michael Podrebarac is the archdiocesan consultant for the liturgy office.

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16 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • MAY 22, 2009

Christ in the forefront Young people find adoration gives them proper perspective on life

By KARA HANSEN

“

Leaven staff

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Stephanie Trouba, Curé of Ars parishioner

“It really varies from time to time, but I know that whenever I go, I will get something amazing out of it.” ration off and on with his parents for Doyle, also a sophomore at Hayden years. It only became an integral part High School in Topeka, said he was of his spiritual life, however, after atlooking forward to attending adoration tending a Steubenville retreat a year it will be offered more often at when ago.

Hayden next fall.

“I never really understood or appreKarmen Bower, a junior at ciated what it was until last summer Benedictine College in Atchison, said when I went on she felt adoration Steubenville. We her life grounded had adoration and helped her twice, and I was put her relationtotally blown ship with God in away by what its proper place. happened,” said “ Adoration Doyle. “I really puts Christ on realized, ‘Wow, the forefront of that truly is my my mind, so I am God that is sitting more likely to right there in speak to God front me.’ I guess throughout the I had realized it day and offer my before, but it just work to him,” never clicked. said Bower. “I am James Doyle, “Now, after often tempted Most Pure Heart of Mary parishioner going on not to pray on Steubenville, I days that I am recould never get ally busy, but after enough of it. I get I go to adoration on these really schedsomething different out of it each time I go. Sometimes I just feel calm, as uled days, everything falls into place and I am more efficient than on the Jesus calms the storms of my life. days that I skip prayer.”

Sometimes I get advice from him.

Trouba has found her experience with adoration to be very similar.

“Adoration’s been really helpful for my spiritual life. If I’m having trouble making time for prayer during the week, I have that hour of prayer time built in,” she said. “If I’ve been struggling with something, I have that time that I can go offer it up to Him.” At a time when many teens and young adults are making major decisions in their lives, eucharistic adoration can provide an opportunity to seek guidance and grace.

Father Mitchel Zimmerman, archdiocesan director of the vocations ofKarmen Bower, fice, said experiences with eucharistic Benedictine College junior adoration often play a key role in the vocation stories of many Catholics.

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I get something different out of [adoration] each time I go. Sometimes I just feel calm, as Jesus calms the storms of my life.

“

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I am often tempted not to pray on days that I am really busy, but after I go to adoration on these really scheduled days, everything falls into place.

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KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Amid the din of their iPods and text messages, downloading and Facebooking, a few teens and young adults are carving out time for something very different in their lives: the solitude of eucharistic adoration.

“My mom and I do the hour together [each week], so if one of us can’t make it, there will still be someone there. But most weeks we both get to go,” said Stephanie Trouba, a 17- yearold parishioner of Curé of Ars Church in Leawood.

Trouba has been attending eucharistic adoration regularly for the past year and a half and has found it to be a unique source of strength and comfort.

“Over the year and a half that we’ve been doing it, I’ve strengthened my relationship with Jesus significantly,” said Trouba.

“I wouldn’t give it up for anything,” she added, “and I hope to continue to have at least a weekly hour for the rest of my life.”

Trouba said she spends her time in adoration a little differently each week, but her time there usually includes a mixture of silence, spiritual reading about various saints, talking to God, and reading Scripture. Trouba said if she has difficulty focusing, she often uses her time to write to Jesus in a journal, a technique used by 16-yearold James Doyle as well.

“I spend time praying the rosary, reflecting on Scripture, and I will usually spend some amount of time just sitting in the presence of God,” said Doyle of Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish in Topeka. “I also usually end up writing a letter starting off with ‘Dear Jesus,’ and then including whatever is on my mind.”

Doyle had attended eucharistic ado-

I wouldn't give [adoration] up for anything, and I hope to continue to have at least a weekly hour for the rest of my life.

To locate a eucharistic adoration chapel near you, visit the Web site at: www.thereal presence.org/chap_fr.htm. The site has a comprehensive list of adoration chapels organized by state.

For another unique opportunity to participate in eucharistic adoration, make plans to attend the Corpus Christi eucharistic procession to be held on June 14 at St. Agnes Church in Roeland Park, beginning at 1 p.m. An hour of adoration at the church will be followed by a procession to Bishop Miege High School. The event will conclude with Benediction at the high school.

“I think anyone doing eucharistic adoration is drawing very close to their vocation,” he said. “That silence and stillness with God are very rare to have as part of a young person’s life.”

Father Zimmerman said adoration provides a great opportunity for learning to pray and listen to God’s voice.

Still, he said it would be best for someone who has never been to adoration before to take it slowly.

“Don’t start with trying to do an hour a week. Even regular five- to 10minute visits to the Blessed Sacrament in time can grow to more,” said Father Zimmerman.

He also said that although the silence in adoration is helpful for hearing God’s voice and experiencing deep prayer, that quiet can take some getting used to.

“The hardest thing to do is to go in to adoration and try to be silent,” said Father Zimmerman. “You may have to do some spiritual reading for a little while at first, but it’s important to take that time to sit there and listen.

“Along the way, it becomes very addictive.”

Bower said she has experienced the important role adoration can play in her ongoing vocation discernment.

“Adoration has allowed me to speak face to face with God, who has placed a specific vocational desire in my heart,” she said. “I think that prayer before Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament in adoration helps to melt my hard heart, so grace can flow more easily in one’s soul.”

“Most of all, I have received abundant peace in adoration,” Bower concluded. “This is the one of the greatest things that can aid discernment.”

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