THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 43, NO. 3 | JULY 30, 2021
HERE’S TO THE FARMER
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Three of the five generations of the Elliott family who have farmed this land in Brown County pose for a family picture. They are (back row from left): Levi Manche, Teresa Manche, Sara Elliott, Amy Elliott and Mathew Elliott; (front row from left): Eric Manche, Caleb Manche, Howard Elliott, holding Annie Manche, and Lori Elliott, holding Clara Elliott and Tessa Elliott.
St. Ann, Hiawatha, couple honored by state farm program By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org
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IAWATHA — Master farmer and master farm homemaker. That’s what you can call Howard and Lori Elliott of St. Ann Parish in Hiawatha now that they have been honored with the title by the Kansas Master Farmer and Master Farm Homemaker program of Kansas State University Research and Extension in Manhattan. Their pastor, Father Daniel Gardner, on the other hand, just says he calls them for help — and they always answer! In addition to being a member of the Knights of Columbus, said Father Gardner, Howard has answered the call to be both a eucharistic minister and usher. Lori is the president of the Altar Society and serves as coordinator of the parish’s annual soup lunch and dinner on Shrove Tuesday. This past Lent, when Father Gardner upended tradition and suggested an alternative to the annual event, Lori didn’t miss a beat. “Instead of a soup dinner, I said, ‘Why don’t we take the opportunity to put together a meal for the workers at the hospital?’” said Father Gardner. “[Lori] just
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Howard Elliott plants corn this past spring on his farm, which has been in his family for five generations. He is hoping to pass it along to the sixth — that of his grandchildren. picked it up, made the contacts, and we fed about 180 people at the hospital. I just made the suggestion, and she ran it. So, that was a wonderful thing.” “When she gets involved in something, she does not do it halfway,” he added. “They’re both pretty hard workers,”
Father Gardner concluded. “They’re not unlike most farming families, and I imagine they do other things I’m not aware of either.” Indeed, they do. The Elliotts have served in leadership positions for parish and community organizations ranging from the parish
council, the community hospital and the local watershed district to the Northeast Kansas Beef Breeder Association, the Brown-Nemaha pork producers, and the 4-H and Future Farmers of America (FFA), just to name a few. They’ve been board members, presidents, volunteers and coaches. But perhaps the title that describes them best is partners. The two met at North Central Area Vo-Tech School in the 1970s. Lori was the only woman in an agricultural production class. Married in November 1980, the couple admitted they might not have known quite what they were in for. But they did have a reasonably good idea of what life on the farm would be like, having both been raised on one. “I think we both understood all the good things and bad things that can happen,” Howard said. “When you’re born on a farm and raised on a farm, I think you realize your life is just going to be a little different,” Lori said. “You just don’t go places and do things. You don’t have the freedom as much. The chores have to be done, and the livestock has to be taken care of and the crops planted and harvested,” she continued. >> See “PARTNERSHIP” on page 4
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LOCAL NEWS
JULY 30, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG
Archbishop issues guidelines regarding celebration of Latin Mass Editor’s note: Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann sent the following letter, dated July 27, to the priests and deacons of the archdiocese. It concerns the apostolic letter recently issued “motu proprio” (on his own initiative) by Pope Francis regarding the celebration of Mass according to the 1962 Roman Missal, commonly referred to as the Latin (or Tridentine) Mass.
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ear brother priests and deacons,
At the heart of our Catholic faith lies the most holy Eucharist, the font and summit of the church’s life and mission. In the celebration of holy Mass, we hear God speak to us through his word, we share in offering the paschal sacrifice of Our Blessed Lord to the Almighty Father, and we receive the body and blood of Christ himself, that we may dwell in him, and he in us. In light of last week’s apostolic letter “Guardians of Tradition,” issued “motu proprio” (on his own initiative), by Pope Francis regarding the celebration of Mass according to the 1962 Roman Missal, I wish to express my gratitude to each of you for your untiring love of the Lord Jesus, for your faithfulness to his Gospel and to the magisterium of his church, and for your deep desire for holiness. The apostolic letter was a reminder to me and my brother bishops of our special responsibility to be vigilant in protecting the integrity of the celebration of the Eucharist in accord with the liturgical norms of the universal church. It also encouraged me to do everything possible to foster an environment where the Mass is always celebrated with care, devotion and beauty. In this responsibility, I rely heavily upon you, my brother priests and deacons. With ordination came the privilege but also the responsibility to lead the eucharistic celebration in a manner that helps to inspire the faithful to recognize the miracle in which they participate. At this time, I am especially aware of the apprehensions of some priests, deacons, religious and laity who are concerned
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Father Stephen Saffron, parish administrator, elevates the Eucharist during a traditional Latin Mass on July 18 at St. Josaphat Church in the Queens borough of New York City. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann has issued guidelines regarding the celebration of the Latin Mass in the archdiocese according to the apostolic letter “Guardians of the Tradition” issued “motu proprio” (on his own initiative) by Pope Francis regarding the celebration of Mass according to the 1962 Roman Missal. about the implementation of the apostolic letter in the Archdiocese of Kansas City and its impact on the future use of the 1962 Missal. I have already communicated with the St. John Vianney Latin Mass Community in Maple Hill and the St. Rose Philippine Duchesne Parish in Mission Woods, assuring them of my continued desire for them to be entrusted to the pastoral care of the Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter. I respect and appreciate the devotion of these communities to what is often referred to as the Tridentine Mass and to the other liturgical rites which existed prior to the Second Vatican Council. In light of the apostolic letter issued by Pope Francis requiring me, as the moderator and guardian of the liturgical life of the archdiocese, to establish a framework for the celebration of Mass according to the missal promulgated by Pope St. John XXIII in 1962, and to continue to promote the liturgical renewal set forth by Second Vatican Council through the celebration of the Mass and sacraments according to the 1969 missal of Pope
St. Paul VI and the other sacramental rites revised after the Council, I issue the following directives: • The pastoral and sacramental ministry offered at St. John Vianney Latin Mass Community in Maple Hill and St. Rose Philippine Duchesne Parish in Mission Woods will continue without interruption and will continue to be served by the priests of the Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter. • Those priests of the archdiocese, and other priests presently ministering stably in the archdiocese, who wish to celebrate at times the Mass according to the 1962 Roman Missal may continue to do so for the present, in fidelity to all relevant liturgical and disciplinary norms, with the understanding they must contact me by Oct. 1 to request continued permission. • Priests ordained in the future who may wish to celebrate at times the Mass according to the 1962 missal of Pope St. John XXIII will be required to seek permission from me. I shall then consult with the Apostolic See regarding their
Fundraiser to help family burdened by medical bills
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ENECA — The Knights of Columbus at three parishes are jointly sponsoring a Cornhole Tournament on July 31 to benefit a family burdened by medical bills resulting from the treatment of a seriously ill baby. The Knights from Sts. Peter and Paul Parish in Seneca, Sacred Heart Parish in Baileyville and St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Axtell are holding the event to benefit seven-month-old Anderson Eaves-Price, the son of Rebecca and Parker Eaves-Price, members of Seven Dolors Parish in Manhattan. Anderson was born with congenital
health conditions. He will have heart surgery in August. Anderson is the great-grandson of Pat and Joyce Broxterman of Sts. Peter and Paul Parish. Pat is parish custodian and Joyce is a parish volunteer. Those unable to participate in the tournament but wishing to donate to help the family can contact Kirby Schmelzle by calling (785) 336-5787 or by email at: Kirby.schmelzle@kofc. org. Checks can be sent to Schmelzle by mail at 416 Main St., Seneca KS 66538. Write “Eaves-Price Family” in the memo line of the check.
request. • The use of the 1962 missal for the celebration of Mass for Sundays and holy days of obligation is not permitted in parish churches — with the exceptions of St. Rose Philippine Duchesne Parish and St. John Vianney Latin Mass Community — as part of the parish’s regularly scheduled Masses, and its proposed use in parish churches in all other instances should be discussed with me or my delegate well in advance of any such celebrations. • At celebrations of the Mass according to the 1962 missal, “the readings are proclaimed in the vernacular using translations of the Sacred Scripture approved for liturgical use by the respective Episcopal Conferences” (“Guardians of the Tradition,” Art. 3 § 3); in the dioceses of the United States, the New American Bible constitutes this approved translation. • The celebration of the holy Mass and the sacraments of the church is always to be done in a manner which ensures fidelity to the directives, norms and rubrics of the sacred liturgy. The
people of God have a right to expect to receive nourishment and formation from the eucharistic celebration as well to have the Mass celebrated faithfully according to the norms and rubrics of the church. • Priests, deacons, religious and lay catechists, regardless of their personal liturgical preferences, are obligated to teach and form people in such a way that they understand clearly that Jesus himself becomes truly present — body, blood, soul and divinity — regardless of whether the Mass is celebrated according to the Pope St. John XXIII 1962 missal or the Pope St. Paul VI 1969 missal. It is a grave error and injustice to communicate to God’s people a superiority of either the Tridentine or the Novus Ordo Mass. • Finally, in accord with the apostolic letter, I am appointing Father John Riley as my delegate to assist me with overseeing the celebrations of the Mass according to the 1962 Pope St. John XXIII missal and the pastoral care of those who participate in those celebrations. Once again, I am grateful to you, my brother priests and deacons, for all that you do to lead the celebrations of the Eucharist in our parish communities. Thank you for your conscientious efforts to celebrate the Mass faithfully, according to the liturgical norms, as well as beautifully, in order to elevate the hearts of your people to give true worship to the God who has revealed himself in Our Lord Jesus Christ, who in turn makes himself uniquely present through the most blessed Sacrament. May we never grow dull to the amazing miracle of grace in which we are privileged to participate!
Sincerely yours in Jesus, the Lord of Life,
Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann Archbishop of Kansas City in Kansas
LOCAL NEWS
JULY 30, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG
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St. James Academy in Lenexa was established in 2008 under Archbishop Keleher, whose influence can be seen and felt throughout the building still today.
Archbishop Keleher facilitated the move of the old Mount St. Joseph Home in Kansas City, Kansas, into a new place in Olathe, naming it Villa St. Francis.
In 2001, Archbishop Keleher laid the groundwork for the permanent diaconate. The ministry has thrived. Today, there are 60 deacons serving in parishes and various other ministries.
90 YEARS YOUNG
Archbishop Emeritus Keleher celebrates 90th birthday By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
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ANSAS CITY, Kan. — The church of northeast Kansas would look vastly different if it weren’t for the influence of Archbishop Emeritus James P. Keleher. Although he’s been retired for the past 16 years, his selfless service has left a deep impression on the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. On July 31, Archbishop Keleher will celebrate his 90th birthday. The organizations he launched over the years and the people he’s met along the way have been forever changed by his leadership.
Young at heart Archbishop Keleher’s heart for youth propelled his vision for a new archdiocesan high school: St. James Academy in Lenexa. Andy Tylicki, the school’s current president, was initially hired as director of activities and athletics and the head boys basketball coach. Back then, he worked with Archbishop Keleher on building up the school and hiring staff. “From the very beginning of St. James, he was very involved in who we were,” said Tylicki. “He would talk about creating a school that was passionate about passing on the faith to the next generation and creating disciples for Jesus,” continued Tylicki. “He sat with me often and talked about the importance of making sure that faith was woven throughout all that we did.” St. James has come a long way since it opened in 2008. The first freshman class of 124 students has nearly doubled to the 230 freshmen it will welcome this fall, with 850 students total. The school’s academic and athletic programs are thriving. Tylicki said Archbishop Keleher’s vision will always be ingrained in St. James. The archbishop’s quotes and pictures adorn the building, the campus is named after the archbishop and his dream of handing down the faith to
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Archbishop Emeritus James P. Keleher hears a confession at Prairie Star Ranch in Williamsburg. Archbishop Keleher approved the purchase of the ranch and focused on making it a holy and fun place for young people. young generations is fulfilled there every day. “It’s who we are,” said Tylicki. “It’s what we’re all about.” Tylicki said he sees Archbishop Keleher regularly and is grateful for his ongoing friendship and guidance. “His young heart and his spirit [are]
still so intact,” he said. “I’m very appreciative of everything he’s done for me.”
A timeless vision St. James might not have been a success if it weren’t for Camp Tekakwitha President Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann
Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799) Published weekly September through May, excepting the Friday the week after Thanksgiving, and the Friday after Christmas; biweekly June through August. Address communications to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Phone: (913) 721-1570; fax: (913) 7215276; or email at: sub@theleaven.org. 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 $21/year. Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.
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at Prairie Star Ranch in Williamsburg. Founded by Deacon Dana and Deborah Nearmyer under Archbishop Keleher’s leadership, camp was held near Perry Lake for three years before relocating to the ranch. During those initial years, the archbishop was moved by camp’s ability to reach young people. “Archbishop Keleher said, ‘If we can accomplish the conversion of heart in a young person in five days, what can we do in a school year?’” said Deborah. The archbishop incorporated many elements of camp into the high school, but the connection went even deeper. Archbishop Keleher named the land camp is on Prairie Star Ranch. Meanwhile, the city of Lenexa named the street St. James is on Prairie Star Parkway. “The city of Lenexa doesn’t know anything about Prairie Star Ranch,” said Deborah. That knowledge makes the Nearmyers sure God had his hand on both organizations. None of it would be possible, they said, without Archbishop Keleher. “His vision for pouring the love of Christ into young people and their families was something you couldn’t wait to get behind,” said Deborah. “His joy, along with his compassion for what it’s like to live as a teenager in 1998 and 2020, was uncanny,” she added. Archbishop Keleher was inspired by Pope John Paul II after he traveled to Denver for World Youth Day in 1993. He returned home determined to reach youth of the archdiocese in a fresh way. “No one in our diocese had really ever gone to Catholic camp,” said Deacon Nearmyer. “There was no template for it. Now, [families] consider it part of their Catholic education plan for kids.” The Nearmyers said the archbishop’s heart for young people continues to beat in every aspect of camp today. “You can look around and see the love he poured into this place by the amount of things that are available to our young people and the way he still prays for our staff and this mission,” said Deborah. “His joy and his laughter and his >> See “VILLA” on page 4
Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org
Advertising Coordinator Beth Blankenship beth.blankenship@theleaven.org
Social Media Editor/Reporter Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
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LOCAL NEWS
JULY 30, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG
Partnership is founded on faith, says couple
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>> Continued from page 1 While being both business partners and a married couple has been rewarding, it hasn’t always been easy. “When you work side by side with someone and you have a disagreement and you have to go home with them,” said Lori, “[well], we have had some what I’d call quiet evenings. “You’d rather just get away, but you pretty well just to have pray about it and move on and go on getting along again.” When the couple’s three children — Matthew, Teresa and Sara — were young, Lori was not as involved in the farm’s daily operations. “We started our family and I stayed home with the kids,” she said. “I helped when I could when they were really little, but when they went to school, I became more involved. As the kids got older and Howard’s dad got older, I learned to drive the semis and the tractors and take care of more chores and responsibilities.” And there’s a lot of responsibilities. The Elliott family farm — now operating with their children as fifth-generation farmers — has more than 3,250 acres of row crops like no-till corn and soybeans, in addition to a 50-cow operation with calves sold as feeders. So, every day, livestock must be fed and tended to. Fence-mending, tractor repairs, and the administrative side of running a business follow. The couple also holds family meetings, usually about every two weeks, to discuss any concerns affecting the family and its farm life. No topic is off limits. Their success — both as a family and as a business — depends on open and honest
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The Elliott family farm — now operating with their children as fifth-generation farmers — has more than 3,250 acres of row crops like no-till corn and soybeans, in addition to a 50-cow operation with calves sold as feeders. communication. Two other keys to success, the couple said, are creativity and flexibility. “There’s a lot of MacGyver things that go on,” Howard said. Sometimes, the problem is equipment; at other times, livestock. In February, for example, frigid temperatures raised concerns. “Calves were being born on the same day it was 20-some below here,” said Howard. “That was certainly a challenge, and it took a lot of extra time and work to get through that. But that’s what we do.” The couple wound up loading the calves on a sled and dragging them to the back porch of their house, just to keep them warm. They even took pictures, said Lori. Although creativity and flexibility are
important in their farm life, the Elliotts said the most important aspect of their partnership is faith. “I don’t know how you can be a farmer without having faith,” Howard said. And even after more than 40 years of farming, Howard feels blessed by the life he and Lori live. “Whether it’s a newborn calf or putting seed in the ground and watching it come up,” he said, “I’m still always amazed at all the miracles we get to witness every day.” The Elliotts, who have been married for more than 40 years, are one of six couples named to the 2020 class of Master Farmer and Master Farm Homemaker and will be honored at a banquet on Sept. 14 at the Kansas State Fair in Hutchinson.
Villa stands as testimony to archbishop’s vision >> Continued from page 3 kindness will impact me for the rest of my life,” she said.
Meaningful changes Archbishop Keleher’s heart for youth was matched by his empathy for the elderly. Although he wasn’t around when the Sisters of Charity founded Mount St. Joseph in Kansas City, Kansas, in 1945, he was the archbishop when it underwent massive changes. “In 1998, Archbishop Keleher was responsible for the moving of the old Mount St. Joseph Home in the former St. Margaret Hospital into a new place in Olathe, naming it Villa St. Francis,” explained Msgr. Ray Burger, who resides at Villa. That moment was instrumental in the development of Villa St. Francis and its continuous service to the community. The facility offers long-term care, short-term rehabilitation and skilled memory care. Rodney Whittington, CEO, said Archbishop Keleher’s legacy is witnessed daily in Villa St. Francis’ ministry to its residents. “Our facility stands as a reminder of his vision and leadership,” said Whittington. “Our staff lives out a mission of compassion, excellence and dignity because of the example set by Archbishop Keleher. “Generations will continue to see his impact as we serve the Kansas City community.” Msgr. Burger said the archbishop’s lasting legacy is appreciated by all.
Sister Mary Bridget Mullen, SCL
“Archbishop Keleher is well-loved and admired by the priests of the archdiocese,” he said.
A chance to serve Within eight years of serving in the archdiocese, Archbishop Keleher wanted other men to have the opportunity to do the same. In 2001, the archdiocese began the process of establishing a permanent diaconate under his leadership. Four years later, it accepted applicants for the program, and the initial cohort of aspirants started formation in 2006. Leon Suprenant, co-director of the permanent diaconate, said Archbishop Keleher’s leadership was key. “He demonstrated both a keen personal awareness of the gifts the permanent diaconate would offer the archdiocese, as well as a keen pastoral sense which led him to build consensus among his priests and flock before introducing it in the local church,” said Suprenant. The first cohort of 17 men was ordained in 2011 by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, who shortly thereafter established the office of the permanent diaconate. Deacon Tom Mulvenon, who serves at St. Joseph Church in Shawnee, said Archbishop Keleher’s influence was instrumental. “He was an advocate for the permanent diaconate before it got going,” he said. “But he waited to make sure he had sufficient support and buy-in from the priests to make sure it would thrive.” For Deacon Chris Seago of Mater Dei Church in Topeka, the respect the arch-
bishop showed him and his fellow aspirants was moving. “He would go out of his way to acknowledge us and make us feel important,” he said. “That always meant a lot to me.” Deacon Robert Zbylut of Sacred Heart-St. Casimir Parish in Leavenworth said one particular moment has stuck in his mind for years. Deacon Zbylut accompanied the archbishop on a prison visit to administer the sacrament of confirmation to the inmates. The archbishop was suffering from knee pain and could only walk slowly. “When visiting an inmate,” said Deacon Zbylut, “[the] archbishop knelt on the concrete floor and anointed the inmate through the small opening on the cell door. “As I was helping the archbishop stand back up, it struck me how truly Christlike that moment was. “We all knew what it took for him to kneel on the hard cement. This was truly a moment of a shepherd leading his flock.” Two more cohorts have since gone through the permanent diaconate program, with the fourth currently in formation. “We now have 60 deacons serving dozens of parishes, as well as other key extraparochial ministries, such as prison ministry, hospital and hospice chaplaincy, marriage and family ministry, prolife ministry and much more,” said Suprenant. “We owe Archbishop Keleher a large debt for the birth and development of the diaconate in northeast Kansas,” he added, “which is a wonderful legacy he has left the archdiocese.”
EAVENWORTH — Sister Mary Bridget Mullen, 94, a Sister of Charity of Leavenworth, died on June 30 at the motherhouse here. She celebrated her 70th anniversary as a Sister of Charity in 2016. She entered the religious community soon after high school and served for years as a teacher in primary and secondary schools before working in health care at the end of her ministry. Though tiny, she had a mighty presence, loved animals and the outdoors, and was known for her quick wit, sense of humor and disarming nature. She had a genuine and natural rapport with students, who valued and trusted her. Helen Therese Mullen was born on Nov. 16, 1926, in Butte, Montana, the fourth of five children of Michael J. Mullen and Nellie (Sullivan) Mullen. She had a strong Irish Catholic heritage on both sides of her family and spoke with a “Butte brogue.” While her parents stressed education, which she took to heart, she also excelled in sports and the piano . . . and was known for her mischievousness. She attended St. John Grade School and Girls Central High School in Butte before pursuing an education degree at Saint Mary College, Leavenworth. She entered the Sisters of Charity community on Aug. 14, 1946, and professed vows as Sister Mary Bridget on Aug. 15, 1948. In 1970, she received a master’s degree in history from Loyola University in Chicago. Sister Mary Bridget served in primary and secondary schools for almost 40 years in Missouri, Montana, Nebraska and Kansas. She taught a wide variety of subjects and also coached sports and sponsored the cheerleading squad. She taught high school during the Vietnam era and agonized over those students — corresponding with many who were sent to fight. Sister Mary Bridget was a lifelong learner who spent several summers working to deepen her knowledge of history through various educational opportunities. One summer, she walked the battlefields of the American Revolution, later bringing that experience back to the classroom. She was always looking for ways to make history and other subjects come alive for her students. After leaving education, she worked for three years in medical records at DePaul Hospital in Cheyenne, Wyoming, and also served with the Sisters of Charity Health Program. In her retirement years, Sister Mary Bridget spent time caring for the elderly, as well as several orphaned cats who lived near the motherhouse. She loved spending time with family and kept up with her 14 nieces and nephews.
JULY 30, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
SPECIAL-NEEDS TOTUS TUUS ILLUSTRATES ‘ALL MEANS ALL’
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Anton Johnson, right, helps Jackson Stutheit work on a craft. Johnson is a Totus Tuus missionary who gave up his summer to travel around the archdiocese, offering the program to young people.
By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
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LATHE — Tom Racunas didn’t need to wonder about the impact Totus Tuus for people with special needs had on those in
attendance. The smiles on their faces said it all. “They seem to be happy,” said Racunas, lead consultant of the archdiocesan special-needs ministry. “The parents are telling me they’re talking about it at home.” And although the focus was on teaching the adults and children with special needs more about the faith, that wasn’t the most important thing in Racunas’ mind. “If they don’t learn anything about the faith,” he said, “at least we want them to leave here thinking and feeling that they’re loved.” Totus Tuus (“Totally Yours”) is a Marian devotional program designed to help young people grow in faith. Led by missionaries who spend their summer hosting these events throughout the archdiocese, the latest one was held at Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe from July 19-23. It was the second offered for people with special needs in the archdiocese. Seventeen people participated. They took part in daily Mass, learned about the rosary and the Ten Commandments and joined in various activities and crafts. Volunteers like Prince of Peace parishioner and parish advocate Roxanne Hug ensured everything ran smoothly. For Hug, the experience was personal. She currently teaches at Holy Spirit School in Overland Park and has a daughter, Mara, who is blind. Although Mara has benefited from similar archdiocesan programs in the past, this time she was a volunteer alongside her mom. “It’s been especially meaningful for my daughter to come with me and work as a volunteer,” said Hug. “It’s been interesting for her to come into that volunteer role instead of being the one that’s the [participant].” The volunteers supported the missionaries, helped with lessons and took care of any needs that arose. “The main thing is building relationships with [the participants] so that they feel comfortable and are ready to learn about Jesus,” said Hug. Hug was paired with missionary Anton Johnson, a fellow parishioner who is pursuing his master’s degree in elementary education. For Johnson, serving as a missionary these past several weeks has been
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Volunteer Caitlin Donahue, left, works on a craft with Gabby Yost at Totus Tuus for people with special needs.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY MOIRA CULLINGS
Totus Tuus missionary Ben Anderson, left, guides Ben Gwynn as he proclaims a reading during Mass at Prince of Peace Church in Olathe. Totus Tuus offered daily Mass along with a variety of activities for those who attended. eye-opening. “We went to a lot of farm communities,” he said, “so we got to see a lot
of these kids who are faced with much deeper [challenges], and they have a different lifestyle.” Working with children from a variety of backgrounds prepared Johnson to tackle the ups and downs of Totus Tuus for people with special needs. “There’s going to be challenges every place we go,” he said. “We don’t hold ourselves back because there’s a challenge. We just push through it.” Shannon Cardaronella, director of children’s ministry at Prince of Peace, was eager for her parish to hold this event. “For me, it’s very important,” she said. “My brother is three years older than me, and he’s in a group home in Ohio. “We didn’t have anything like this when he was growing up.” The parish’s curb cuts, circle drive, elevators and wide halls are some of the elements she knew would make the event accessible to people of all abilities. Cardaronella also lauded the parish’s dedicated staff, particularly its maintenance team, who not only kept everything clean, but also prepared the classrooms for the children and adults who attended Totus Tuus. “The biggest unsung heroes are our maintenance staff,” she said.
Cardaronella was impressed by both the missionaries and the volunteers who gave up their time, and she hopes there will be similar events in the archdiocese moving forward. “We need to support families,” she said. Racunas agreed. “For our families, for our parents, it’s definitely saying to them that the church wants your child, the church needs your child [and] we are here for your child,” he said. Racunas also hopes the week left a strong impression on the missionaries and volunteers. “They hopefully — in a deeper way — will recognize the value of all human life,” he said. “I always say, ‘God doesn’t make a mistake.’ Every child is perfect in their own way.” Racunas wants Catholics in the archdiocese “to know that we need to work harder, longer, stronger [and] more relentlessly to ensure that — regardless of ability — ‘all means all’ within our church.” To learn more about the archdiocesan special-needs ministry, visit the website at: archkck.org/special-needs.
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LOCAL NEWS
JoAnn and Ken Clouse, members of Corpus Christi in Lawrence, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on July 31. The couple was married at Sacred Heart Church, Cunningham. They will celebrate with family at their home. Their children are: Ben Clouse, Laura Pope, Alicia Dean and Brennen Clouse. They also have seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Jim and Kathy (O’Neil) Williams, members of Nativity Parish, Leawood, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 14. The couple was married on Aug. 14, 1971, at Curé of Ars Church, Leawood, by Father Ron Cornish. Their children are: Kristin Vreeland and Jeff Williams. They also have five grandchildren. Jeanette (Seay) and Rob Drury, members of Sacred Heart-St. Casimir Parish, L e ave nwo r t h , will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 10. The couple was married on Aug. 10, 1971, at Seven Dolors Church, Manhattan, by Father Lawrence E. Grennan. Their children are: Jason and Luke. They also have five grandchildren. Terri and Harold “Nick” Nicholson, members of Church of the Ascension, Overland Park, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 7. The couple was married on Aug. 7, 1971, at Sacred Heart Church, Paxico. They will celebrate with a family vacation in the summer of 2022. Their children are: Anthony Nicholson, Chicago; Sarah Christensen, Overland Park; and Blake Smith, Leawood.
Patsey J. (Hubbard) and Michael D. Thorpe, members of St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on July 23. The couple was married on July 23, 1971, at Visitation Church, Kansas City, Missouri, by Msgr. Arthur M. Tighe. A small celebration will follow at a later date. Their children are: John and Christopher. They also have one grandson. Bernard
and
Barbara Dunn, members of Most P u r e H e a r t of Mary Parish, To p e k a , will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on July 31. The couple was married on July 31, 1971, at St. Isidore Catholic Student Center, Manhattan. Their children are: Aaron, Justin and Brigid. They also have eight grandchildren. Lynn and Gabriel Willdermood, members of St. Paul Parish, Olathe, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 14. The couple was married on Aug. 14, 1971, at the Chapel of the Benediktiner Kloster, Wuerzburg, Germany. They will celebrate their anniversary with friends. Marlene
(Akin)
and Clyde Au b e r t , m e m bers of Immaculate Conception Parish, St. Marys, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on July 24. The couple was married on July 24, 1971, at Immaculate Conception Church, St. Marys, by Father Robert Hasenkamp. Their children are: Tracey Bearman, Michelle Rohr, Jennifer Riedel and Daniel Aubert. They also have 12 grandchildren and one great-grandson.
ANNIVERSARY submissions POLICY: The Leaven prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th anniversary notices. They are for parishioners in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas DEADLINE: 10 days before the desired publication date. WHERE TO SUBMIT: Email: todd.habiger@theleaven.org.
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JULY 30, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG
COPYRIGHT © BY CLIFF LEITCH, THE CHRISTIAN BIBLE REFERENCE SITE, WWW.CHRISTIANBIBLEREFERENCE.ORG. USED BY PERMISSION
ACROSS 1 Dress decoration 5 Asian nation 9 Bird seat 14 Water (Sp.) 15 Capital of Peru 16 Biblical Greek word for love 17 Loots 18 Leaky faucet noise 19 Nomad 20 Heartbreak 22 Napping 24 Grain 25 Sister of Leah 27 Frog’s cousin 31 Lass 32 Transgression 34 Shoshonean 35 Web-like 38 Cask 40 Extreme 42 Embellish 44 Distress call 46 Lowest point 47 Peter’s other name 48 Dekaliter (abbr.) 50 Swabs 51 Visit 52 WWW word 55 Bark 57 Belongs to us 59 Small drill
61 Rested 64 OT book of prophecy 66 What Israelites ate in desert 68 Birch-like tree 71 Kick 73 Stare 74 Statement of beliefs 75 Kitchen appliance 76 Word written on the wall (Daniel) 77 Unstable 78 Exam 79 Branch of learning DOWN 1 Popular Key 2 Ancient Greek marketplace 3 Length of forearm 4 Loosen 5 Ancient 6 Supernatural events 7 Mennonite 8 Italian city 9 Messenger 10 Land of Pharaoh 11 Knock 12 Hertz 13 __ you! (attention getter) 21 Day of the week (abbr.) 23 Samuel’s mentor
26 Noah’s __ 28 Beat 29 A vacation (2 wds.) 30 Honeys 31 Greek sandwich 33 Catholic sister 35 Cowboy rope 36 Bye 37 Promising beginner 39 The Creator 41 Thy word is a __ unto my feet 43 Compass point 45 Horizons 49 Downwind 53 Scrambled food 54 Kettle (2 wds.) 56 Long-term memory 58 Parable of the __ and Goats 60 Shade of pink 61 Smile contemptuously 62 Concerning 63 Biblical weeds 65 Raggedy Ann’s friend 67 __ mater 68 Feign 69 __ Lanka 70 High-school club 72 Trinitrotoluene Solution on page 13
Father Thomas B. Curran, SJ, to be honored
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VERLAND PARK — The equity for all. JCRB|AJC is honored to Jewish Community Rela- celebrate Father Curran for his accomtions Bureau|AJC plishments and leadership, is proud to anand his sense of fairness and nounce that Father inclusion of all people by preThomas B. Curran, SJ, will resenting him with this award. ceive the prestigious Henry W. Father Curran is the presiBloch Human Relations Award dent of Rockhurst University at its annual human relations in Kansas City, Missouri. event on Nov. 18. Father Curran This year’s human relations is the first clergy member to reevent will be held in person. ceive this honor. For more information about For many decades, Father the event, send an email to: Curran has led the way in Father Thomas B. jcrbajc@jewishkc.org or call Curran, S.J. the Greater Kansas City com(913) 327-8127. munity in the pursuit of justice and
Schedule God into busy
Don’t take a vacation from God even w By Kelly Bothum Catholic News Service
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y family missed Mass a few weeks ago. It doesn’t happen often, so my youngest looked genuinely confused when I told him we weren’t going. “Like at all?” he asked. If there was ever a time when guilt felt good, this might have been it. I told him we ran out of time in the day, but the truth is, we didn’t make the time. We were out of town playing tourists and savoring a rare morning to sleep in followed by brunch. God gave us 24 hours and we used them all on ourselves. Of course, the following Sunday, we squeezed into the church pew to restart our family streak. And I’ll admit that I whisper-yelled at my kids during the homily and shot them a stern look during the eucharistic prayer. But at least we were there. Present. Together. There’s never an easy time to raise Catholic kids. During the school year, you’re competing with after-school activities and homework and playdates and snow days. In the summer, you’re wrestling with a different kind of busy — the kind where camps and vacations and fun days at the pool with friends can make it hard to keep a routine. If anything, summer is where not being in a routine is actually the routine. Summer is what I think of when I read the chapter about raising children in Pope Francis’ apostolic exhortation “Amoris Laetitia” (“The Joy of Love”). The pontiff notes that raising kids means parents have a duty to pass on their faith to them. But even he sees that job is “made difficult by current lifestyles, work schedules and the complexity of today’s world, where many people keep up a frenetic pace just to survive.” Holy Father, you have just described my summer. It’s true that our lives are busy and full of the unexpected — I often get tired just looking at my to-do list. But it’s precisely
The Heinlein family of Ionia, Michigan, attends Mass in the Canyon section of Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. Summertime is busy and full of the unexp find Christ. He is in the middle of our tornado of life, the one spinning with barbecues and camping trips and late summer nights. in this chaos that we must find Christ. He is in the middle of our tornado of life, the one spinning with barbecues and camping trips and late summer nights. We have to see him in every one of these experiences.
To do that may require some rejiggering of how we share our life with God. If our Muslim brothers and sisters can take time to pray five times a day, we Catholics can certainly find a few opportunities in our busy summer schedules.
After all, the Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches us that our prayer matters not just to us, but to God as well: “Whether we realize it or not, prayer is the encounter of God’s thirst with ours. God thirsts that we may thirst for him”
How parishes can support faith growth in summer months By Father Herb Weber Catholic News Service
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ny pastor will let you know that Mass attendance goes down during summer months. This is due primarily to families and individuals being out of town on any given weekend. Families have fewer scheduled commitments that prevent them from traveling or spending long weekends with grandparents, at cottages or at beaches. With this is mind, parishes have to help families find ways to not only maintain faith during the summer but also to support faith growth. For parishes, there are two starting points. First of all, churches need to make sure that they do not inadvertently give the message that nothing is
happening during summer months. That means they have to review how liturgy is celebrated and what takes place during the week. Many choirs do not sing during the summer and most religious education programs take a break. But are there still ways to make summer an active and engaging time? The second starting point is that parishes have to work year-round to make certain that parishioners are engaged in the daily life of discipleship, so much so that summer becomes an extension of what is already taking place. One of the goals of our parish has been to develop a spirituality that includes the whole family for the entire week. At this parish, the staff calls this “The Other 10,020” (usually simply called the 10-20) approach. Knowing that a week has 10,080 minutes and that 60 minutes
are attributed to Sunday Mass, we try to emphasize the rest of the week as well. Parish programing may change during the summer, but it doesn’t stop. To facilitate that happening, there are ongoing connections forged. Our parish has a “Mid-Week Meditation” that appears on Wednesday mornings to draw people’s attention back to faith awareness. We also have a weekly podcast that helps people reflect on Scripture readings, many small faith groups that continue to meet during the summer and a variety of special summer gatherings like a summer film series and book discussions. Often our emphasis is to find ways to put “faith thoughts” into the minds of people right in their homes. As for people attending Mass while on vacation, we encourage people to share their travel experiences. Often,
bulletins from churches around the country show up on my desk. People frequently talk about what their experiences have been, both the positive and less so. Finally, our parish streams Sunday Mass through our website. On a recent trip to Finland, even after I attended one of the few Catholic churches in the country, I found it comforting to tune in to Mass at home and pray with members of my own parish. I realized what a blessing this form of technology can be. In short, it is not enough to simply remind people not to take a vacation from church or God during the summer. Churches need to make efforts to help people stay connected with their faith. Father Weber is the founding pastor of St. John XXIII Parish in Perrysburg, Ohio.
y summer family plans
when on vacation
CNS PHOTO/NANCY WIECHEC
pected, but it’s precisely in this chaos that we must (2560). That connection, like a garden, requires tending and cultivating. One quick way to check in on your family’s faith is to take its spiritual pulse. This can be any time, but for families it often works best around bedtime — kids tend
to be more contemplative then, anyway. Ask them about what went right that day and also what went wrong. Did they attempt an act of kindness? Did they see someone hurting? How did they help? These kinds of questions help open children’s eyes. It allows them to see their friends, family and even that mean lifeguard through the lens of Jesus. If we want them to think, “What would Jesus do?” then we need to help them see him in the world around them. Plus, kids are usually looking to draw out bedtime as long as possible, so why not add God into those extra minutes? It’s here that we can water the mustard seeds of faith we’ve planted as parents. While the calendar may say summer, it’s Ordinary Time in the church. But for most of us, there’s nothing ordinary about family life. There’s always something happening. The same should be true of our faith. As a parent, I’ve learned that you can make anything a teachable moment, whether it’s a beautiful sunset, a ripe blueberry or the first firefly of the season. How we perceive God in our world can influence how our children see him as well. When we make prayer a priority, we increase the chances they will, too. That’s part of why saying grace before dinner or praying before bed matters. More than once, I’ve had my children stop me on the way out of their bedroom to remind me I forgot to pray with them. It’s a habit that means something, and for that I’m grateful. Again, Pope Francis nails it in “Amoris Laetitia”: “Hence moments of family prayer and acts of devotion can be more powerful for evangelization than any catechism class or sermon.” Summer is about freedom and fun. We don’t always see God in there, especially when we have to figure out when to go to Mass while on vacation in a new place. But God’s love gives us the freedom of salvation. Our lives may have more twists and turns than a waterslide, but it leads us to the same place: into his loving arms. Bothum is a freelance writer and a mother of three.
Five books for your spiritual summer reading list By Shemaiah Gonzalez Catholic News Service
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ith vacations, better weather and simply slowing down, summer seems to be the best time to get lost in a book. Whether your book club read the latest “chic lit” or a mystery as your default for summer reading, there are few things more lovely than reading about God in your favorite summer location. Here are a few to add to your “to-read” stack.
• “Catholicism: A Journey to the Heart of the Faith” by Bishop Robert E. Barron Bishop Barron brings us back to the essentials of our faith in this book. What makes Catholicism distinctive from other traditions? It is the Incarnation, the enfleshment of God. Drawing from the arts, architecture and storytelling, he opens our eyes to see God is with us in every tenet of our faith and throughout the ages. Bishop Barron reminds us why we fell in love with the church to begin with, that it is not a system, but a relationship, and we recall the deep love we felt when God first captured our hearts. This is an amazing book for converts and cradle Catholics alike. • “Movies Are Prayers: How Films Voice Our Deepest Longings” by Josh Larsen Words often fail in prayer as we bring forth our deepest desires to God. Larsen opens up a new dimension to our favorite films, revealing that our love for these films is often a reflection of how they express the deepest groanings of our own heart. Looking at different forms of prayer in the Psalms — such as lament, praise, joy and confession — alongside scenes from favorite films, Larsen shows us a new way of approaching prayer and film. As we head into the summer movie season, this book trains our eye to find “God in all things,” even the new summer blockbuster. Reading Larsen’s reflection on the Wes Anderson film, “Rushmore,” I found my own connection with the film and God. He covers classics and recent releases alike, so I am certain you will find a favorite among them. • “Wearing God: Clothing, Laughter, Fire and Other Overlooked Ways of Meeting God” by Lauren F. Winner When author Lauren F. Winner’s faith became stagnant, she began to look at lesser-known biblical metaphors for God. In this well-researched book, Winner examines metaphors such as bread, clothing and a woman in labor. By grounding these metaphors in stories of her interactions with friends and family, she invites the reader into a deeper understanding and friendship with our God. Her chapter on bread and wine made me cling even more tightly to the Eucharist. • “Mystics and Misfits: Meeting God Through St. Francis and Other Unlikely Saints” by Christiana N. Peterson Faced with the challenges of intentional communal living and working a family farm, Peterson looks for strength in Christian mystics such as St. Francis of Assisi, Simone Weil and Dorothy Day — all people who literally were misfits. Through both personal narrative and biography, Peterson tells the inspiring story of spiritual transformation. Through her personal stories, I found a model for how to incorporate favorite saints into my own spiritual practices. • “A Simple, Life-Changing Prayer: Discovering the Power of St. Ignatius Loyola’s Examen” by Jim Manney Prayer is difficult for most. This book is a beautiful introduction to the examen, the 500-year-old form of prayer developed by St. Ignatius of Loyola. The prayer is more approachable than we might think. Manney explains how and why we should practice this very accessible prayer. Praying the examen reveals God’s presence in our day-today life, drawing us closer to him; you’ll find yourself ending your summer days with the prayer and feel rich as you see the beauty of your life. I learned to pray the examen earlier this year with this book’s guidance, and I will no doubt return to it again and again.
CNS PHOTO/MIKE CRUPI, CATHOLIC COURIER
A student follows along with her study Bible during a summer religious education class at St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Greece, N.Y. Churches need to make sure that they do not inadvertently give the message that nothing is happening during summer months.
Gonzalez is a freelance writer. Her website is: www.shemaiahgonzalez.com.
10
NATION
JULY 30, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG
Spending bills without Hyde seen as move to expand abortion By Julie Asher Catholic News Service
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CNS PHOTO/TYLER ORSBURN
Pro-life leaders unfurl a petition in front of the U.S. Supreme Court in Washington Oct. 1, 2019, with more than 250,000 signatures calling for the court to overturn Roe v. Wade. This year, U.S. bishops are encouraging Catholics to sign a petition to oppose the Hyde Amendment’s repeal. The Hyde Amendment would prevent federal funding for abortion as a permanent part of the law.
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ASHINGTON (CNS) — In eliminating the Hyde Amendment in spending bills for fiscal year 2022, the “pro-abortion” Democrats on the House Appropriations Committee “destroy over 40 years of previously unprecedented bipartisan support for a measure aimed at saving human lives,” said the president of National Right to Life. “This is a campaign by pro-abortion Democrats to ensure that abortion is available on demand, for any reason, at any time and paid for with taxpayer dollars,” Carol Tobias said. She made the comments late July 15 after the committee marked up the legislation. “The most egregious aspect of the bill presented today is the removal of the Hyde Amendment, which protects lives and prohibits taxpayer funding of abortion,” said Rep. Tom Cole, R-Okla., during the markup session. Hyde first became law in 1976 to prohibit federal funds appropriated through the Labor Department, the Health and Human Services Department and related agencies from being used to cover abortion or fund health plans that cover abortion except in cases of rape, incest or when the life of the woman would be endangered. Hyde has been reenacted in spending bills every year since it was first passed. House Democrats said they had planned to keep Hyde out of spending bills because President Joe Biden released his proposed budget May 28 without the amendment, according to an ABC News report. ABC quoted House Appropriations Committee Chair Rosa DeLauro, D-Conn., as saying at a July 12 hearing of the committee: “Allowing the Hyde Amendment to remain on the books is a disservice to our constituents. We are finally doing what is right for our mothers, our families and our communities by striking this discriminatory amendment once and for all.” DeLauro, like Biden, is a Catholic who supports keeping abortion legal. Jennifer Popik, legislative director of National Right to Life, cited data showing that Hyde has “saved over 2 million American lives” since 1976.
THE MOST EGREGIOUS ASPECT OF THE BILL PRESENTED TODAY IS THE REMOVAL OF THE HYDE AMENDMENT, WHICH PROTECTS LIVES AND PROHIBITS TAXPAYER FUNDING OF ABORTION. REP. TOM COLE R-OKLAHOMA
“The Hyde Amendment has proven to be the greatest domestic abortionreduction measure ever enacted by Congress,” she added in a statement. Also missing from the appropriations bills was Weldon Amendment language to protect the conscience rights of medical providers and prevent them from
being forced to participate in an abortion. Rep. Andy Harris, R-Md., who is Catholic, told the committee members: “I will tell you as a practicing physician, the Weldon Amendment is incredibly important at protecting people with deeply held conscience and religious beliefs from being forced to participate in something they don’t agree with.” Another Catholic member of Congress, Rep. Chris Smith, R-N.J., issued a statement July 15 lamenting the move by House Democrats to break from the decades of bipartisan consensus on Hyde “to advance legislation that would force U.S. taxpayers to pay for abortion on demand.” The majority of the American people remain opposed to forcing taxpayers to fund elective abortion, said Smith. “Polling consistently shows that a majority of Americans oppose taxpayer funding of abortion — nearly six in 10,” he said, citing a recent a Marist poll. “Another eight in 10 Americans think laws can protect both the well-being of a woman
and the health of her unborn child.” Over the past couple of months, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ committee chairman, individual bishops, the head of the Catholic Health Association and several pro-life organizations, including March for Life, the Susan B. Anthony List, National Right to Life and Students for Life of America have called on Americans to write to their members of Congress demanding the Hyde Amendment be included in spending bills. The USCCB’s Secretariat of Pro-Life Activities is asking Catholics and all “people of goodwill” to sign an online petition, www.notaxpayerabortion.com, urging Congress not to let federal funds be used to pay for abortions. The petition, “Save Hyde. Save Lives,” will be sent to members of Congress and staff. As of late July 16, the petition had 121,000 signatures. The spending measures approved by the House Appropriations Committee will now go to the full House for a vote.
Notre Dame alum is first American to win individual gold in foil fencing
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OKYO (CNS) — “Golden is thy fame, indeed,” the University of Notre Dame in Indiana tweeted July 25 after Lee Kiefer, class of 2017, won the gold medal in women’s foil fencing at the Tokyo Games. She beat defending champion Inna Deriglazova of Russia 15-13. Kiefer, 27, is the first American, male or female, to win an individual Olympic medal in foil fencing. “It’s such an incredible feeling that I share with my coach, I share with my husband, with my family, just everyone that’s been a part of this,” Kiefer was quoted as saying in an Indianapolis Star story. “I wish I could chop it (the medal) up in little pieces and distributed it to everyone I love.” Now a medical student at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Kiefer was the fifth-ranked foilist in the world going into the Olympics. Tokyo was her third trip to the Summer Games; she competed in
CNS PHOTO/ANNEGRET HILSE, REUTERS
Lee Kiefer of the United States, right, competes against Larisa Korobeynikova of the Russian Olympic Committee in the semifinal of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics women’s individual foil competition July 25. Kiefer went on the same day to win the gold medal by defeating defending champion Inna Deriglazova 15-13 in the final. London in 2012 and Rio de Janeiro in 2016; she placed fifth in foil in 2012 and 10th in 2016.
While at Notre Dame, Kiefer was a four-time NCAA foil champion and four-time First Team All-American. She
earned a bronze medal in women’s foil at the 2011 World Fencing Championships. According to a bio on Kiefer posted on the website of the International Fencing Federation, the gold medalist followed her father, Steve, into fencing, as did her sister and brother, Alexandra and Axel. Lee was 5 years old when she started in the sport. “Growing up my dad decided that he wanted to take up fencing again. He hadn’t picked up a foil in 10 or 15 years, and me and my siblings watched him compete at a local tournament,” Kiefer said in an interview a couple of years ago. “Then he asked if we wanted to try it, and we said yes. Twenty years later I’m still doing it.” Both of Kiefer’s parents are doctors. Her mother, Teresa, emigrated from the Philippines to the United States of America as a child, according to the federation’s bio. Her father was captain of the fencing team at Duke University. Her siblings also have represented the U.S. in fencing.
CALENDAR
JULY 30, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG
ANNUAL ROAST BEEF DINNER Sacred Heart - St. Casimir Parish (Served at Sacred Heart Parish hall) 1405 2nd Ave., Leavenworth Aug. 1 from 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Come join us for our annual roast beef dinner. The cost is: $11 for adults; $6 for kids ages 6 and under. Carryouts will be available.
SACRED HEART RUMMAGE SALE Sacred Heart Parish (center) 408 S. Cedar, Ottawa Aug. 5 from 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. (full price) Aug. 6 from 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. (half price) Aug. 7 from 7:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. ($2 per bag)
This back-to-school rummage sale includes clean and reusable items including but not limited to: furniture, clothing, knickknacks, home decor, tools, dishes, cookware, toys, books, craft supplies and more. Not fully vaccinated? Please mask.
ST. JOSEPH-ST. LAWRENCE PARISH SUMMER FEST 211 W. Riley, Easton Aug. 7 at 4 p.m.
Mass will be at 5 p.m. at St. Lawrence Parish, Easton. There will be a fried chicken dinner served from 4 - 7 p.m. The cost is: $10 for adults; $5 for kids. Carryouts will be available. There will also be kids games, bingo and a country store.
CONSECRATION TO MARY RETREAT Christ’s Peace House of Prayer 22131 Meager Rd., Easton Aug. 13 - 15
The retreat will begin on Aug. 13 at 5:30 p.m. and end Aug. 15 at 4:30 p.m. Spend a
weekend dedicated to Mary and make/renew your Marian consecration on the solemnity of the Assumption. There will be Marian conferences, eucharistic adoration, Mass, confession, and time for private prayer, reflection or walking and a special consecration to Mary ceremony. Day guests are also welcome for the ceremony and celebration on Aug. 15. The suggested donation is: $170/ single or $250/couples for the cabins and courtyard rooms; $100 for the single guest rooms (meals included). To attend, sign up online at: christspeace.com; send an email to: info@christspeace.com; or call (913) 7738255.
VATICAN II: KNOW YOUR FAITH AND EXPERIENCE ITS FULLNESS St. Joseph Parish 11311 Johnson Dr., Shawnee Aug. 14 from 8 a.m. - 4:45 p.m.
Take advantage of this opportunity to increase your Mass engagement through informative, engaging and transformative talks. Participate in the Extraordinary Form (Tridentine) Mass, listen and grow in understanding and experience the Mass more fully at the Assumption Vigil (Novus Ordo) Mass at 5 p.m. The day will include confession, Mass in both forms, presentations on the Vatican Council’s intentions, implementations and impact, and a recap. Snack breaks and lunch are included. Sign up is required for the freewill offering event. Register online at: www. signupgenius.com/go/904054bada92fa6fa7-vatican.
ROSARY RALLY IN HONOR OF OUR LADY OF FATIMA St. Mary-St. Anthony Parish 615 N. 7th St., Kansas City, Kansas Aug. 15
We will pray the joyful, sorrowful and glorious mysteries of the rosary, followed by Benediction and the opportunity for attendees to enroll in the brown scapular. For more information, visit the website at: www. rosaryrallieskc.org.
COPING WITH LIFE ALONE Greater Kansas City Begins Aug. 16
Beginning Experience of Greater Kansas City ministers with persons who are suffering from the loss of a marriage relationship. Our programs help those suffering these losses through the grieving process, enabling them to look to the future with renewed hope and deepened faith. Coping With Life Alone, a 10-week online session, begins Aug. 16. For more information, visit the website at: www. beginningexperiencekc.org or call Maria at (913) 314-9844.
AN EVENING OF HEALING AND HOPE St. Ann Parish 7231 Mission Rd., Prairie Village Aug. 31 at 7 p.m.
Kelly and Bob Specht, founders of Carl’s Cause, will hold an evening of healing and hope for teens and older adults. The Spechts will tell their story, and a breakout session will be offered. Professional counselors will offer resources and give concrete ways to foster mental wellness. For more information, visit the website at: www.archkck.org/ family/care-support/catholic-counselors/
CATHOLIC WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY Holy Trinity Parish (Father Quigley Center) Thursday mornings beginning Sept. 23 from 9:30 - 11 a.m.
We will be studying the Gospel of Mark. Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program
11 is offered for infants through 12 years of age while we gather for our Bible study. Infants are also welcome to stay with moms in their discussion group. Teens ages 13 - 15 are invited to our junior Bible study. Registration is due by Aug. 26. For more information, contact Ellen Jones at (913) 957-88009, Theresa Gordzica at (785) 8430283 or Jenny Kropf at (913) 219 8528, or head to our new website at: www.womens biblestudykc.com. Come meet new friends and discover what blessings God’s word has in store for you this year.
LIFE AND HOPE BANQUET Overland Park Convention Center 6000 College Blvd., Overland Park Sept. 2 at 7 p.m.
Come celebrate the Wyandotte and Olathe Pregnancy Clinics. Abby Johnson will be the featured speaker. Register online at: www.LifeAndHopeBanquet.com. The registration fee is $100 per person, with $50 of the fee being tax deductible.
SPECIAL-NEEDS MINISTRY NEEDS VOLUNTEERS
The special-needs ministry in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas needs volunteers, 14 years of age and older, to help restart BREATHE — a respite care program. This program provides a break from caregiving to families who have a child with a disability. The program is held at Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park, usually on the third Saturday of each month from 4 - 8 p.m. We are planning to offer our first session on Aug. 21. Volunteers “buddy” with a child with a disability for an evening of recreation and leisure activities. COVID protocols will be followed. To learn more or to register, go online to: www.archkck.org/special-needs or send an email to: tracunas@archkck.org.
CLASSIFIEDS
12 EMPLOYMENT Child care position - John Paul ll Child Care has positions available in our preschool and school-age programs, beginning Aug. 16, with hours from 3 - 6 p.m. Contact Donna at: dhogue@archkckcs.org for more information or to apply. Advancement officer - Donnelly College is looking for a driven advancement officer to join the college’s advancement team. This exciting opportunity requires an individual who is attentive to details, works well with a diverse array of constituencies, enjoys meeting people, works well individually and as part of team. Responsibilities include: serve as integral member of the advancement team with the primary goal of securing major gifts to support Donnelly’s mission and vision through new and existing donor prospects; manage the cultivation cycle leading to the successful solicitation and securing of major gifts for annual fund, capital projects, endowment, event sponsorships and planned gifts; manage (and help grow) a portfolio of major gift prospects (up to 125 in portfolio); develop and coordinate major gift prospect strategies with donor database analyst, annual fund coordinator, vice president of advancement and, when appropriate, the president of the college; schedule and hold individual meetings with prospects and donors to qualify interest and capacity; create individualized prospect engagement and stewardship plans for all constituents in your portfolio; recruit membership into the Jerome Society by securing annual gifts of $1,000 and above. Please email your cover letter, resume and transcripts to: hr@donnelly.edu with “Advancement officer” in the subject line. Executive assistant - data support specialist - The executive assistant - data support specialist provides administrative and clerical support to the executive director and leadership team and manages the donor database system. Duties include assisting with board and committee meeting logistics; coordinating mail mergers and thank you letters; database entry; running donor reports; assisting with scholarship application process; answering incoming calls; and serving as liaison to schools. Ideal candidates will possess exceptional communication and customer service skills; be proficient in Raiser’s Edge or other donor database systems; have strong organizational and problem solving skills and expertise with MS Office programs. Candidates must have a minimum of a high school diploma, college degree preferred; at least three years’ working in administrative role; experience working with executive level staff; and be a practicing Catholic in good standing. Experience working in nonprofit offices is preferred. To apply, send cover letter and resume to: vanch@archkck.org. Administrative assistant The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking qualified candidates to fill a fulltime position of administrative assistant for the office of the tribunal. Qualified applicants must have experience handling general office duties; creating and maintaining databases; must be proficient using the Microsoft Suite of Office products including Word and Excel, internet and the ability to learn other software and social media as required; file management of both paper and electronic files; must be a practicing Catholic in good standing and an active and faithful steward in their parish. This position requires a high school diploma or equivalent plus a minimum of three years’ prior experience working in a professional office environment. Self-motivated candidates with the ability to work independently as well as part of a team are encouraged to submit their information for consideration. To apply, please visit: archkck. org/jobs. Application deadline Aug. 5. Administrative specialist - bookkeeper - The administrative specialist - bookkeeper position provides bookkeeping support and assists with administrative duties as needed to the Catholic Education Foundation. Duties include: processing and coding donations and invoices; making deposits; reconciling accounts; entering transactions in database system; running financial and donor reports; monitoring bank accounts and cash flow; maintaining back-up and support documents; serving as liaison to the archdiocesan accounting department; and providing support for donor database projects and scholarship processing. Ideal candidates will have a college degree or equivalent experience; at least three - five years in bookkeeping or accounting, preferably in nonprofit; excellent written and verbal skills; exceptional customer service skills; proficient in Excel and other MS Office programs; ability to create and manage dashboard and spreadsheet reports; strong problem-solving skills; detail-oriented; and must be a Catholic in good standing. To apply, send cover letter and resume to: vanch@archkck.org. Financial empowerment specialist - Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas is hiring an asset development program specialist to serve the Leavenworth and Atchison communities. If you have a passion for serving others and a human services background, consider joining our team. Our programs empower individuals to change their financial futures through financial coaching, goal-setting and strength-based case management. For more information and to apply, go online to: recruiting. https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/ Details/590503/Catholic-Charities-of-NortheastKansas-INC/Financial-Empowerment-Specialist.
Part-time employment opportunity - Happy Hearts Working, Inc., a local day service program for adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities, is seeking a part-time supervisor on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, from 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Competitive hourly rate of pay and enriching work environment! For details regarding this position, please contact Carol Farnsworth, executive director, at (913) 706-2356 or email: happyheartsworking@gmail.com. Food pantry and case management specialist - Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas is seeking a compassionate, yet energetic, case manager looking to make a difference in the community. This person will work alongside the manager of Family Support Services at our Wyandotte County location overseeing the food pantry and providing financial assistance to those who may qualify. We are looking for someone that can manage diverse funding streams, enjoys being part of a team and works effectively with volunteers. If this is you, please apply at: https://catholiccharitiesks.org/careers/. Instructional assistant - St. Ann School in Prairie Village is seeking an instructional assistant. The ideal candidate would be available 20 - 29 hours per week and will be supporting both students and teachers. Interested candidates, please contact St. Ann principal Liz Minks at: lminks@stannpv.org. Director of health services - The monks of St. Benedict’s Abbey are seeking a qualified nurse to serve as the director of health services. This full-time role will lead a team in providing for the health and wellness of the monastic community. To learn more and apply, go online to: Kansasmonks.org/jobs or call (913) 360-7908. Hiring part-time bus drivers - Look at the incredible opportunities! Sign-on bonus! $1500 (non-CDL drivers); $3000 for CDL drivers. 1) Starting pay is $17.50 - $18 per hour for 0 - 2 years’ experience; $18.25 - $23.19 per hour for 3 - 20 years’ experience. 2) Paid training and development (bring your children to training and save on day care fees.) 3) Bring your children to ride along on your routes with our Ride-Along Program. 4) 401(k) with company match. 5) Must be 21 years or older and driving for at least three years. 6) Must have excellent driving and criminal record. We pay the same rate for our trips as we do for driving school routes! Apply online at: www. careers.nellc.com or in person at: Durham Blue Valley, 7321 W. 135th St., Overland Park. (913) 681-2492. Nursing faculty - A full-time nursing faculty position carries the primary responsibility of helping students to master subject material and skills that will contribute to their personal and intellectual development and success in the nursing program. This person works with the director of nursing to schedule coursework/activities that will help students to complete their goal of becoming health care professionals and to support the program. Must be able to pass a background check and complete Virtus training. Qualifications include: MSN or BSN with MSN in progress; unencumbered Kansas nursing license; committed to diversity and serving a diverse population; ability to communicate well and assist students in gaining practice and knowledge in the clinical situation; adult teaching experience preferred; excellent leadership and communication skills; experience with instructing technology-based courses; alternative teaching strategies preferred; demonstrate a thorough and accurate knowledge of use of electronic communication and audiovisual equipment; philosophically aligned with the mission and values of the college to engage and support our Catholic identity. Please email your cover letter,
resume and transcripts to: hr@donnelly.edu with “Nursing instructor” in the subject line.
Part-time toddler teacher - Little Saints at St. Thomas Aquinas is seeking a part-time toddler teacher. Days needed are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Approximate hours are 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Virtus training required. For more information, please contact Jeanne Toy at: littlesaints@stasaints.net or call (913) 940-4781. Director of liturgy and music - Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Shawnee is actively seeking a director of liturgy and music to create and lead worship experiences that create encounter for our parishioners. The primary role is to create a dynamic and inspiring worship experience through liturgy and song for our parish community. The director is responsible for a variety of ministerial functions, including liturgical and musical volunteer recruitment, leading and directing choirs, accompaniment, training, support and direction for arts and environment enhancements. For a full job description and to apply, go online to: https://shoj.org/about-us/employmentopportunities/. Administrative assistant - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking a part-time, 24 hours per week, administrative assistant for Savior Pastoral Center. Candidate must be able to work Mondays, Tuesdays and one additional day during the workweek. This position requires high school diploma and three to five years’ prior administrative experience in professional office environment. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional communications skills, both written and verbal, and proficiency with Microsoft Office programs; graphic design and social media experience preferred. Please visit: www.archkck.org/jobs to apply.
Parish life coordinator - St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood is seeking a highly motivated “people person” to fill the staff position of parish life coordinator. The key role of this position is to maximize parishioner involvement in the life of the parish and community. This includes serving as staff contact for multiple ministries, helping parishioners make the most of their time and talents, communicating opportunities for participation and organizing various parish events. This is a part-time, up to 25 hours a week, ministerial position with some evening and weekend hours required. The work schedule is flexible. Compensation will be commensurate with experience. For a copy of the complete job description and contact details, please go online to: stmichaelcp.org/ employment-opportunities. Refugee Resettlement Support Specialist VISTA - Build capacity for the refugee resettlement team by engaging volunteers, donors and community partners in the work of welcome. This role focuses on housing, community outreach and increasing the capacity of the case management team. As an AmeriCorps member, you will join a network of service-minded individuals across the country giving back to their community! Apply online today at: https://catholiccharitiesks.org/careers/. Part-time parish coordinator - St. John Parish and School in Lawrence seeks a part-time parish coordinator. The parish coordinator will be responsible for the efficient use of parish facilities and managing supportive services. Candidates with one - three years of work experience and bilingual (English/ Spanish) are preferred. Please see the full job description and requirements at: www.sjevangelist.com. Anticipated start date is Aug. 1. Position will be open until filled. Please send cover letter and resume to Father John Cousins at: frjohn@ sjevangelist.com or mail to: 1229 Vermont St., Lawrence, KS 66044. Workforce specialist – Topeka/Lawrence - We’re hiring a workforce specialist! Do you want to change lives? Do you want to help break the cycle of poverty? Do you have a social work degree and experience in case management? This could be your opportunity. Come join our team! Apply today at: https://catholiccharitiesks.org/ careers/. Assistants - Assistants needed to provide support for developmentally disabled adults in a day program setting. Hours are 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. five days a week. Health, dental and vision premiums paid in full after two months of employment. Join us for meaningful, fulfilling relationships with our community. Larcheks.org. Educational Advancement AmeriCorps – Help empower adults in overcoming barriers to advancing their careers by supporting them in pursuing higher education and training. Apply online today at: https://catholic charitiesks.org/careers/. Housekeeper - Prairie Star Ranch is seeking new dedicated and diligent staff members for its housekeeping team. This position performs a variety of cleaning tasks in order to provide a clean and hospitable environment. Staff can expect 10-15 hours of work per week and will be working with a team of housekeeping and non-housekeeping staff. This position requires high school diploma or equivalent. Please visit www.archkck.org/jobs to apply. Position open until filled. Business manager - St. John Church and School in Lawrence seeks a full-time business manager. The manager will administer the finances of the parish and school, maintain accuracy of all financial operations and serve as HR officer. Applicants need computer and new technologies competencies. Candidates with a degree in business/accounting with one to three years of experience or its equivalency. Bilingual (English and Spanish) is preferred. See full job description and requirements at: www.sjevangelist.com. This position is eligible for an archdiocesan benefits package. The anticipated start date is July 26. Position open until filled. Send cover letter and resume to Fr. John Cousins at: frjohn@sjevangelist. com or mail to 1229 Vermont St., Lawrence, KS 66044. Preschool lead teacher - St. Patrick Parish Early Education Center is seeking a preschool lead teacher for the 2021-22 school year. The ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic who has prior early childhood teaching experience, and has an AA, BA or BS degree in early education, early childhood, child development or a related field. Hours will be Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., August - May. Pay is based on level of experience. Interested individuals should send a resume and pay range to Nena Scott at: nscott@stpatrickkck.eduk12.net. New board members - Do you desire to share the gifts of your time and talent? Santa Marta Senior Living Community, a Catholic not-for-profit sponsored by the archdiocese providing faith-based living for seniors, is seeking new board members. We welcome an array of talents, such as health care clinical/administrative experience or strategic business experience in various disciplines (e.g., finance, operations, facilities, marketing, hospitality, HR, law, etc.). Email your cover letter and resume (including any not-for-profit board experience) to Heidi Abeln at: habeln@santamartaretirement.com by July 31. In addition to your phone number and home address, please state your parish. Email Heidi with questions; she or a board member will reply. Learn more about us at: www. santamartaretirement.com.
JULY 30, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG After school care coordinator - St. Michael the Archangel School is hiring a coordinator to oversee our after-school care program. This position is responsible for a group of grade school children, ages kindergarten - 8th grade, from 3:25 - 6 p.m. Job responsibilities include coordinating snacks, monitoring homework, outdoor play and free choice activities. This is an ideal position for a college student, retired empty nester or someone looking to get back into the workforce. Prior experience working with children preferred. Contact Dr. Lorenzo Rizzi, school principal, at (913) 402-3950 or send resume and cover letter to: Lorenzo.rizzi@stmichaelcp.org. Full-time automotive repair technician - Tech lead: Must be able to accurately diagnose and repair cars, SUVs, and light-duty gas and diesel pickups. Independent shop located in Wellsville, Kansas, open since 2005. NO WEEKENDS! Contact Russ at (785) 418-6039 or: russ@midwest-autocenter.com or on Facebook. Executive director/community leader of L’Arche Heartland - The mission of L’Arche Heartland is: Make known the gifts of people with intellectual disabilities, revealed through mutually transforming relationships; foster an environment in community that responds to the changing needs of our members; and engage in our diverse cultures, working together toward a more human society. The community leader is responsible for guiding L’Arche Heartland in living authentically the mission and values of L’Arche in its commitment to community among adults with and without intellectual disabilities, finding spirituality in its daily life, while simultaneously maintaining strict compliance with all licensing requirements. This person ensures that the needs of adults with intellectual disabilities are met and that their gifts are promoted both within the L’Arche Heartland community and in the wider environs. The community leader leads the implementation of the community mandate consistent with the identity and mission of L’Arche. This individual leads, manages and administers the daily operations of the community in order to meet the financial, legal and quality standards expected from the governmental authorities. Key responsibilities include: Nurture the spiritual life of the community; assure state compliance as a licensed provider of Home and Community Based Supports for Residential and Day Service on the Kansas I/DD Medicaid waiver (adherence to Kansas Article 63); guarantee the quality of care for 37 adults with intellectual disabilities; build and develop a vibrant community life; raise funds, develop the community and manage its finances; promote the message of L’Arche; manage human resources; work with other L’Arche communities; and work with L’Arche Heartland board of directors. Requirements include: a bachelor’s or higher degree in a field of human services; work experience in the area of human services; certification that the organization’s chief director of services is qualified to supervise the delivery of a program of services to persons; at least one year of experience in a senior management-level position with a licensed provider; at least two years of experience as either a case manager or a services manager; at least five years of experience delivering direct care services to persons; and three letters of reference concerning the organization’s chief director of services. Interested candidates please submit a letter of interest, a current resume and references with contact information to the L’Arche Heartland discernment/search team at: harmony@larcheks.org. Position open until filled. Executive assistant - The administrative assistant to the president of Donnelly College serves as the primary administrative support by performing a wide variety of complex, responsible and confidential office, technical, clerical and professional administrative duties. The incumbent frequently responds to complex inquiries for information from the public and the college staff and makes appropriate referrals. Qualifications for the administrative assistant position include: a bachelor’s degree, required; two years of experience in administration, required; professional verbal and written communication skills; proficiency with productivity software (i.e., Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint) is essential; experience with database applications strongly preferred; high level of customer-service orientation; ability to work within a fast-paced, changing environment; philosophically aligned with the mission and values of the college to engage and support our Catholic identity; and practicing Roman Catholic strongly preferred. Please email your cover letter, resume and transcripts to: hr@donnelly.edu with “Executive assistant” in the subject line. Director of Advancement - St. John Church and School in Lawrence seeks a full-time director of advancement. The director will develop and administer development plans to ensure the long-term viability of the church and school. The director will oversee all advancement activities necessary by building relationships with a broad range of parishioners, parents, alumni, volunteers and community members. Candidates with three to five years of fundraising experience and bilingual (English and Spanish) are preferred. Please see full job description and requirements at: www.sjevangelist.com. This position is eligible for an archdiocesan benefits package. Please send cover letter and resume to Father John Cousins at: frjohn@sjevangelist.com or mail to: 1229 Vermont St., Lawrence, KS 66044. >> Classifieds continue on page 13
CLASSIFIEDS
JULY 30, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG >> Continued from page 12 Digital marketing coordinator - Bishop Miege High School is looking for a part-time (20 - 25 hours/week) qualified digital marketing coordinator to join our faithbased community. You will partner with our faculty, staff and coaches to develop and edit digital content on the website and through social media channels. You will also play a support role in maintenance of records in our donor database. Requirements include: bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, marketing or related field; one to three years’ experience with writing/editing online content; one to three years’ experience with online community building; ability to analyze website and social media reports; excellent time management skills; excellent attention to detail; excellent interpersonal skills; excellent written and verbal communication; the ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic. To express interest in this position, send a resume and cover letter to Molly Peterson at: mpeterson@bishopmiege.com. Full-time assistant teachers - With multiple locations in Johnson County, Special Beginnings Early Learning Center provides high quality child care in a safe, loving Christian environment. With a balanced curriculum of pre-academics and the right environment, we believe we are providing the children the foundation to a successful life. We are looking for full-time assistant teachers for all ages who have an excellent work ethic, a heart for children and a willingness to learn more about early childhood education. Experience and/ or education is a plus, but we will train the right candidate. Duties include supervising and ensuring the safely and wellbeing of the children at all times; following predetermined curriculum and daily schedule; decorating the class and keeping classrooms clean and orderly; creating and filling out daily reports for each child; communicating with parents; meeting children’s basic needs (diapers, bottles, etc.). Must be patient and able to respond to difficult situations calmly; have good interpersonal skills with co-workers, parents and children; and be able to lift 25 pounds on a regular basis. There are opportunities for career advancement. For more information or to apply, call Carolyn Andruss at (913) 894-0131, option 3. Workforce-Specialist - Do you want to change lives? Do you want to help break the cycle of poverty? Do you have a social work degree and experience in case management? This could be your opportunity! Come join our team! For more information and to apply, go online to: https:// catholiccharitiesks.org/, then go to “About Us” and click on “Careers,” then scroll down to “View Job Openings.” Telephone buried cable operators needed - This is a subcontractor position. Outside work in all weather conditions in Nebraska, central and western Kansas. Must pass background check and drug screen. Half ton or heavier pickup with valid insurance required. Plow equipment provided. Pay is per completed job. Paid training available to right candidate. Current subcontractors also looking for laborers. Call or text (785) 217-4118 for information during business hours. Caregivers - Daughters & Company is looking for several compassionate caregivers to provide assistance to seniors in their home, assisted living or in a skilled nursing facility. We provide light housekeeping/light meal preparation, organizational assistance, care management and occasional transportation services for our clients. We need caregivers with reliable transportation and a cellphone for communication. A CNA background is helpful, though not mandatory. We typically employ on a part-time basis, but will strive to match up hours desired. Contact Gary or Laurie at (913) 341-2500 if you want to become part of an excellent caregiving team. Part-time teacher aide - St. Michael the Archangel Preschool is seeking a part-time teacher aide for our four-years-old classroom. This person is responsible for assisting the lead teacher in carrying out daily activities, carrying out the rules and regulations of our licensure and maintaining principles of sound Catholic education. If you are interested, please contact Jennie Wente, preschool director, at (913) 402-3971 or send resume and cover letter to: jennie.wente@stmichaelcp.org. Drivers and aides - Assisted Transportation is now hiring safe drivers and aides to transport students with special needs in Johnson, Wyandotte and Clay County, Missouri, in company vans. Drivers earn $14 - $16 per hour. Aides earn $12 per hour. Part-time and full-time schedules available. CDL not required. Retirees encouraged to apply. Make a difference in your community by helping those in need. Call (913) 521-4955 for more information. EEO
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785.331.6452
THE SHEPHERD’S VOICE 8:30 a.m. Sundays on 92.9 FM and KEXS AM 1090 Encore Monday at 11:30 a.m.
Career positions at Ryan Lawn - Full-time career positions at Ryan Lawn & Tree for people who have a passion for plants, working outdoors and customer service. Put your degree to work in the outdoors. We are faith-based and 100% employee-owned. We offer careers in forestry (both plant healthy and pruning), turf, pest and landscaping. With 350 associates in five branches, we have growth careers for the right people. We expect a lot. We can teach you our industry if you want to learn and are willing to work hard. If you or someone you know is interested, apply online at: RyanLawn.com.
HOME IMPROVEMENT DRC Construction We’ll get the job done right the first time. Windows - Doors - Decks - Siding Repair or replace, we will work with you to solve your problems. Choose us for any window, door, siding or deck project and be glad you did. Everything is guaranteed 100% (913) 461-4052 www.windowservicesoverlandpark.com drcconswindows@gmail.com Painting - Diamond Painting, (913) 648-4933, Residential/Commercial, Exterior/interior, Free Estimate, Affordable, Decks, DiamondPaintKc.com, KCMO/Overland Park Metropolitan area. Concrete construction - Tear out and replace stamped, stained or colored patios and drives. Retaining walls, footings, poured-in-place safe rooms, excavation and hauling. Asphalt drives and lots. Fully insured; references. Call Dan at (913) 207-4371 or send an email to: dandeeconst@aol.com. STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Free estimates. Call (913) 579-1835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa. Local Handyman - Painting int. and ext., wood rot, masonry (chimney repair), gutter cleaning (gutter covers), dryer vent cleaning, sump pump (replace, add new), windows, doors (interior and exterior) honey-do list and more! Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118. Popcorn ceiling texture removal Interior wall painting specialist. Jerry at (913) 206-1144. 30 years’ experience. Call with questions 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) 252-1391
SERVICES Memory quilts - Preserve your memories in a keepsake quality quilt, pillows, etc. Custom designed from your Tshirt collection, baby clothes, sports memorabilia, neckties . . . Quilted Memories. (913) 649-2704. Handyman - I wanted to let you all know that we do basement finishes, deck building, bathroom and kitchen remodeling. This includes tile work, cabinet refinishing, and any sheetrock work. We also do all things flooring, siding, windows, doors, covered porches, sheds and much more. I really appreciate all your support. Please call Joshua Doherty at (913) 709-7230. Cleaning lady - Reasonable rates; references provided. Call (913) 209-9234. Senior Care Authority - Navigating senior care options can be overwhelming. We’ll help you sort through and understand all your care and living options and point you to vetted resources. Placement assistance is FREE. We do a thorough assessment, do all the research and walk with you as you make these big decisions for you or your loved one. Call (913) 359-8580.
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Win disability benefits - Disabled and no longer able to work? Get help winning Social Security disability benefits. Free consultation. Eight years’ experience. No fee unless you win. Call (785) 331-6452 or send an email to: montemace2000@yahoo.com or visit http://www. montemacedisability.org. Bankruptcy consultation - If debts are overwhelming you, seek hope and help from compassionate, experienced Catholic attorney, Teresa Kidd. For a free consultation, call (913) 422-0610; send an email to: tkidd@kc.rr.com; or visit the website at: www.teresakiddlaw.com. Please do not wait until life seems hopeless before getting good quality legal advice that may solve your financial stress.
For sale - One plot at Resurrection Cemetery in Lenexa, ground only. Ground Charity, lot D, section 103, spaces 1 and 2. Current value $5200, asking $4700, including conveyance fee. Call Mike at (913) 291-9134. For sale - Double niche located at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Topeka. The glass-fronted niche is located on the main level, high on the right side of the main aisle heading toward the chapel. Asking $8100. Contact Alissa at (316) 304-2839.
REAL ESTATE
ACT Prep - Founded by a Bishop Miege graduate, Pathway Prep has helped over 250 students during the last four years improve their scores. In-person or virtual sessions available. For more information, visit: pathway prepkc.com and contact Alex Pint at (913) 991-8217 or: alex@pathwayprepkc.com.
Get Instant Cash Offer on Your Johnson County Home! Skip the Showings Move on Your Schedule Low Fee Structure Get Started Today! www.FullPriceHomeSale.com OFFER CODE KS01
Garage Door Repair New Garage Doors Platinum Amarr dealer, Elite Home Advisor top rating. Call Joe, mention The Leaven discount. A Total Door (913) 236-6440.
We buy houses and whole estates - We are local and family owned, and will make you a fair cash offer. We buy houses in any condition. No fees or commissions and can close on the date of your choice. Selling your house as is never felt so good. Jon & Stacy Bichelmeyer (913) 599-5000
Masonry work - Quality new or repair work. Brick, block and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; second-generation bricklayer. Member of St. Paul Parish. Call (913) 271-0362.
CASH FOR YOUR HOME (913) 980-4905 Any condition in the metro area Mark Edmondson - local parishioner http://www.buykcproperty.com
Stone Painting - We are offering FREE ESTIMATES to any and all that are interested in painting this summer. We do interior, exterior house painting, along with decks, fences and much more. At Stone Painting, we ensure professional, quality and cheap services tailored to your needs. Call now at (913) 963-6465.
Whole Estates Need to sell a home and everything in it? We buy it all at once in as-is condition. Call (816) 444-1950 or send an email to: www.wholeestates.com.
Next level Design & Remodelling and More llc. 10 to 40% off Exterior, Interior painting Hard surface flooring, remolding Call (913) 709-8401. Free estimates.
Tired of being a landlord? I’ll buy it. Call Mark Edmondson (913) 980-4905 Local parishioner.
Custom countertops - Laminates installed within 5 days. Cambria, granite, and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee. Mike Hammer local moving - A full-service mover. Packing, pianos, rental truck load/unload, storage container load/unload and in-home moving. No job too small. Serving JoCo since 1987. St. Joseph, Shawnee, parishioner. Call Mike at (913) 927-4347 or send an email to: mike@mikehammermoving.com.
WANTED TO BUY Wanted to buy - Old cars or hot rods. Uncompleted project cars in any condition, with or without titles. Cash buyer. Call (913) 980-3559. Wanted to buy -Do you have a car or truck that you need to get rid of? If you do, CALL ME! I’m a cash buyer. We’re Holy Trinity parishioners. My name is Mark. (913) 980-4905. Wanted to buy - Antique/vintage jewelry, paintings, pottery, sterling, etc. Single pieces or estate. Renee Maderak, (913) 475-7393. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee. Will buy firearms and related accessories - One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee.
FOR SALE Residential lifts - New and recycled. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. St. Michael’s parishioners. KC Lift & Elevator at (913) 327-5557. (Formerly Silver Cross - KC) For sale - Bed railing to prevent person lying in bed from rolling out. Asking $45. Call Beatrice at (913) 999-4340. For Sale - Double crypt located at Resurrection Cemetery in Lenexa. Prime location in Holy Family Mausoleum includes two Trappist caskets. Call (816) 405-1519 for discounted price.
CAREGIVING Family member with dementia or need help at home? - We specialize in helping seniors live SAFELY at home, where they want to live! We also offer free dementia training and resources for families and caregivers. Benefits of Home - Senior Care, www.Benefitsofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591. Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation for seniors in their home, assisted living or nursing facilities. We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Laurie, Pat or Gary.
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING The Leaven reaches approximately 50,000 subscribers. Cost is $20 for the first five lines, $1.50 per line thereafter. To purchase a Leaven classified ad, email The Leaven at: beth.blankenship@theleaven.org.
Crossword solution
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COLUMNISTS
Cheers to a special advocate
DAILY READINGS EIGHTEENTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Aug. 1 EIGHTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Ex 16: 2-4, 12-15 Ps 78: 3-4, 23-25, 54 Eph 4: 17, 20-24 Jn 6: 24-35 Aug. 2 Eusebius of Vercelli, bishop; Peter Julian Eymard, priest Nm 11: 4b-15 Ps 81: 12-17 Mt 14: 13-21 Aug. 3 Tuesday Nm 12: 1-13 Ps 51: 1, 3-7, 12-13 Mt 14: 22-36 Aug. 4 John Vianney, priest Nm 13: 1-2, 25 – 14:1, 26-29a, 34-35 Ps 106: 6-7b, 13-14, 21-23 Mt 15: 21-28 Aug. 5 The Dedication of the Basilica of St. Mary Major Nm 20: 1-13 Ps 95: 1-2, 6-9 Mt 16: 13-23 Aug. 6 THE TRANSFIGURATION OF THE LORD Dn 7: 9-10, 13-14 Ps 97: 1-2, 5-6, 9 2 Pt 1: 16-19 Mk 9: 2-10 Aug. 7 Sixtus II, pope, and companions, martyrs; Cajetan, priest Dt 6: 4-13 Ps 18: 2-4, 47, 51 Mt 17: 14-20 NINETEENTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Aug. 8 NINETEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME 1 Kgs 19: 4-8 Ps 34: 2-9 Eph 4:30 – 5:2 Jn 6: 41-51 Aug. 9 Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, virgin Dt 10: 12-22 Ps 147: 12-15, 19-20 Mt 17: 22-27 Aug. 10 Lawrence, deacon, martyr 2 Cor 9: 6-10 Ps 112: 1-2, 5-9 Jn 12: 24-26 Aug. 11 Clare, virgin Dt 34: 1-12 Ps 66: 1-3a, 5, 8, 16-17 Mt 18: 15-20 Aug. 12 Jane Frances de Chantal, religious Jos 3: 7-10a, 11, 13-17 Ps 114: 1-6 Mt 18:21 – 19:1 Aug. 13 Pontian, pope, and Hippolytus, priest, martyrs Jos 24: 1-13 Ps 136: 1-3, 16-18, 21-22, 24 Mt 19: 3-12 Aug. 14 Maximilian Kolbe, priest, martyr Jos 24: 14-29 Ps 16: 1-2a, 5, 7-8, 11 Mt 19: 13-15
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ll means all. I’ll never be able to hear those words without thinking of a particular person. He was a fierce advocate for a worthy cause, but never pushy. He was a wonderful teacher and never demeaning. He was a dedicated, hard worker, but always with a gentle smile. His welcoming personality underscored his vision for the church: that all means all. In other words, he walked the walk and didn’t just talk the talk. The person I’m referring to is Tom Racunas, who retired last week as director of the archdiocesan special-needs ministry. It’s fitting that we have a story in this week’s Leaven on page 5 that features his famous words: All means all. One enduring lesson that he taught me is the importance of the words we use, especially when speaking of one another. For example, I can no longer hear, without cringing a bit, that Gospel passage from Luke (17:11-19)
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JULY 30, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG
MARK MY WORDS
FATHER MARK GOLDASICH Father Mark is the pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie. He has been editor of The Leaven since 1989.
often read on Thanksgiving Day. You’re familiar with this story of the ten lepers who come to Jesus asking that he have pity on them. Thanks to Tom, I now say in my mind: not lepers, but persons with leprosy. These people are much more than simply their disease. Sometimes, people dismiss this sensitivity to words as just another instance of being “politically correct.” Far from being “PC,” Tom taught me that it’s actually a
matter of courteous respect for one another. In a column years ago, Tom spoke about how making venues physically accessible for people with special needs, like curb cuts and ramps, really benefits everyone. I thought about that — with a silent prayer of thanksgiving — every time I took my mom out when she was in a wheelchair. And I recalled it again when bringing supplies into The Leaven office as I wheeled them on a dolly up the ramp to the back door of the church offices. How true that we all benefit from those accommodations for accessibility. Honestly, though, I
found Tom’s insights challenging. He made me conscious of how accessible — both physically and spiritually — my parish is. But even more so, I had to face how accessible my mind and heart are. Tom was a living example of something I read last year in “Jesus Wears Socks with Sandals,” by S. James Meyer. In an entry called “The Challenge to Step Up,” Meyer highlights the observations of Ken Wilber, a psychologist and philosopher. Wilbur noticed a “pattern of four foundational stages common to all: egocentrism, ethnocentrism, pluralism and universalism.” Meyer “dumbs it down” for the rest of us as follows: Stage One: Life is about what’s best for me. Stage Two: Life is about what’s best for my tribe — us vs. them. Stage Three: Life is about what’s best for all tribes — us with them. Stage Four: Life is about what’s best for us — we are all one; there is no them.
Tom has done great work in reminding us to strive for Stage Four, by being, for example, a welcoming community as we celebrate the sacraments: from the tiniest babies to the oldest parishioners, from those with fewer needs to those with special needs. He’s made it clear that people with special needs are, first and foremost, people — people who also enjoy time at Prairie Star Ranch in Willamsburg and at summer Totus Tuus programs. Beyond that, Tom hasn’t forgotten parents who care for people with special needs, from the monthly BREATHE respite program to the practical financial workshops on how aging parents can ensure care for their loved ones with special needs. Tom, I wish you well in “retirement,” but know that you’ll always be a voice for people so easily forgotten or ignored. And don’t give up on me: I’m still at Stage Three . . . but improving, thanks to you!
God gives far beyond what we deserve. Can we do less?
n the wilderness east of Egypt after they escape from enslavement, the Israelites think back to the diet they enjoyed before their liberation. “We sat by our fleshpots and ate our fill of bread” is how they remember it. Really? Were slaves being worked to death on government construction projects supplied with all the beef stew and baked goods they wanted? But if their memories are playing tricks on them, this may indicate their condition. They are obsessing about food. Modest meals of the past are expanding in their imaginations into huge feasts. The reason is that
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KEVIN PERROTTA Perrotta is the editor and an author of the “Six Weeks with the Bible” series, teaches part time at Siena Heights University and leads Holy Land pilgrimages. He lives in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
they have nothing to eat. Probably only readers who have lived through famine or
endured the chronic undernourishment of poverty can understand how hunger affects the mind. The Israelites lash out at Moses: “You had to lead us into this desert to make the whole community die of famine!” Here again, their memory is distorted. At great danger to himself, Moses led them free from a genocidal regime. Why blame him? “Would that we had
died . . . in the land of Egypt,” they scream. Beneath the despair and rage, can we sense the fear? Well, we might respond, listening to the episode being read in the liturgy, here we sit in church, with our faith in God. Why don’t the Israelites exercise faith in God? Hasn’t he just saved them from the Egyptian army with a spectacular miracle at the Red Sea? Why don’t they make an appeal to him — you know, a prayer of the faithful? “For bread in the wilderness, let us pray to the Lord.” “Lord, hear our prayer.” After all he has done for them, God must be steamed at their lack of faith!
If this is the direction of our thinking, perhaps God’s statement in the Book of Isaiah is apt: “My thoughts are not your thoughts” (55:8). God responds to the Israelites’ fury without a spark of wrath or a rumble of rebuke. He simply informs Moses that meat and bread are about to be delivered. Did the Israelites deserve such lavish treatment? Apparently, that issue was not uppermost in God’s mind. The question God seems to have asked himself is: How can I help these hungry people? As we look around our country and our world, perhaps that is a question we, too, should ask.
Pope offers his solidarity in letter to cartel-afflicted Mexican diocese MEXICO CITY (CNS) — Pope Francis sent a letter of encouragement to residents of a Mexican diocese afflicted by battling drug cartels, a conflict that has cast attention on the lawlessness covering wide swaths of Mexico and the government’s inability to pacify the country. In the letter sent to Bishop Cristóbal Ascensio García of Apatzingán and read at Mass July 18, the pope spoke of violence in the
Tierra Caliente region of western Michoacán state. He also offered prayers for the population, along with the message: You are not alone. “The climate of terror and insecurity that afflicts the population is against God’s will. . . . Remember that you are not alone, the Lord is strength and mercy, that he never abandons his children, that the church is attentive and close to those that suffer,” the
letter said. “My prayer to the Lord Jesus is that you can move forward in life and that he helps you to carry the crosses and sufferings with meekness, strength and patience.” The pope’s letter again brought attention to Mexico’s difficult security situation, which failed to improve — and often worsened — during the last 15 years as drug cartels and criminal groups dispute crime territories.
COLUMNISTS
JULY 30, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG
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Challenging the establishment on childhood gender transitions
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23-yearold woman named Keira Bell recently brought a pivotal lawsuit against the National Health Services Gender Identity Development Clinic in London, better known as the Tavistock Clinic. Bell experienced significant personal harm from puberty blockers, testosterone and an operation to remove her breasts. She claims the medical staff at the clinic failed to challenge her seriously about her decision as a teenager to transition to a male. In a landmark ruling delivered in December 2020, a British court upheld her claim that she’d been rushed through gender reassignment without proper safeguards. Bell represents the leading edge of a new class of young people struggling with gender dysphoria who, as they become adults, are starting to push back against various “gender affirmation” interventions perpetrated against them, even, in some cases, seeking legal recourse and financial redress. As these intrepid individuals challenge the status quo, they are becoming known
MAKING SENSE OF BIOETHICS
FATHER TAD PACHOLCZYK Father Tadeusz Pacholczyk is a priest of the Diocese of Fall River, Massachusetts, and serves as the director of education at the National Catholic Bioethics Center in Philadelphia.
as “trans-desisters” or “detransitioners.” When Bell was 16 and struggling with gender dysphoria, she was referred to the Tavistock Clinic and almost immediately launched down the medical path. After three one-hour long visits to the medical facility, she was prescribed puberty blockers, powerful drugs that delay the development of signs of puberty. In an interview with the British Broadcasting Corporation, she stated that there hadn’t been adequate investigation or therapy prior to that stage.
“I should have been challenged on the proposals or the claims that I was making for myself,” she said. “I think that would have made a big difference.” Later, she was prescribed the male hormone testosterone, to help her develop male features like a beard, mustache and a deep voice. A few years later, she underwent a mastectomy. “Initially, I felt very relieved and happy about things,” she said, “but I think as the years go on, you start to feel less and less enthusiastic or even happy about things. “You can continue to dig yourself deeper into this hole or you can choose to come out of it and have the weight lifted off your shoulders.” She stopped taking the cross-sex hormones at age 22 and says she has come to
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accept being female now. She remains upset, however, about what had happened to her over the last decade. “I was allowed,” she said, “to run with this idea that I had, almost like a fantasy, as a teenager . . . and it has affected me in the long run as an adult.” Vulnerable young people, caught up in the pressure of the moment, have too easily been drawn into life-altering pathways involving medications and scalpels with their frequently irreversible effects. Puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones and complex surgeries can all lead to permanent damage, even the destruction of a young person’s reproductive organs and fertility. Now in her early 20s, Bell soberly observes, “I’m very young. I’ve only just stepped into adulthood and I have to deal with this kind of burden or radical difference.” Parents have a serious obligation to protect their children from the gender-reassignment industry, which profits handsomely from the lucrative, long-term hormone prescriptions and the multiple complex surgeries. When
parents give consent for cross-sex interventions on their children, they will often do so under pressure from clinicians and professional societies like the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Bell and other detransitioners insist that extended waiting periods, with appropriate questioning and challenging of young people, need to occur as part of a good psychotherapeutic response to claims of gender dysphoria. The AAP, meanwhile, strongly discourages such approaches, telling pediatric primary care providers in an official statement “to be a reliable source of validation, support and reassurance,” and exclusively to pursue “affirmation-based approaches” for children’s mental health services, including pharmacological and surgical interventions. James Cantor, director of the Toronto Sexuality Centre, noted in a critical review of the AAP statement: “Although almost all clinics and professional associations in the world use what’s called the watchful waiting approach to helping gender-diverse
children, the AAP statement instead rejected that consensus, endorsing gender affirmation as the only acceptable approach.” The available studies reveal, moreover, that the majority of pre-adolescent children who present as “trans” eventually revert to the identity that accords with their biological sex. Those studies indicate at least 67% of gender diverse children cease wanting to transition by puberty as long as “gender affirmation” approaches are not pursued or advocated. Bell sums up her experience this way: “I look back with a lot of sadness. There was nothing wrong with my body. I was just lost and without proper support. Transition gave me the facility to hide from myself even more than before. It was a temporary fix.” These firsthand testimonies from brave and outspoken detransitioners like Bell should prompt us to listen closely to their stories and beware of “affirmation-based approaches” that often cloak the betrayal of our gender-confused youth.
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LOCAL NEWS
JULY 30, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG
Exploring the diaconate? A new cohort is forming By Leon Supernant Special to The Leaven
Q.
Many dioceses have had permanent deacons for many years, but they are still relatively new here in the archdiocese. Can we start, then, with: What is a permanent deacon and what does one do?
A.
A deacon is an ordained minister in the Catholic Church. There are three groups, or “orders,” of ordained ministers in the church: bishops, priests and deacons. Deacons are not ordained for the ministerial priesthood, but for a ministry of service (in Greek: “diakonia”) that they carry out under the authority of the archbishop. Deacons are consecrated for ministries of word, liturgy and charity. As ministers of the word, deacons proclaim the Gospel, preach and teach in the name of the church. The deacon’s liturgical ministry includes specific roles in the celebration of Mass, where he helps the faithful to unite their lives and concerns to the offering of Christ. And as ministers of charity, deacons are leaders in identifying the needs of others, then marshaling the church’s resources to meet those needs. All that the deacon does flows from his sacramental identity as an “icon” of Christ the servant.
Q.
LEAVEN FILE PHOTO
The first cohort of permanent deacons in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas celebrated their 20th anniversary earlier this year. Permanent deacons are ordained ministers that can proclaim the Gospel, preach and teach in the name of the church.
Are permanent deacons expected to become priests?
Information on the next cohort of deacons
A. No. It is true that seminarians
are ordained as “transitional” deacons prior to their ordination as priests, but “permanent” deacons are called to serve the church as deacons, not as priests.
Q.
What kind of men make good deacon candidates?
A.
There is a maxim that “God does not call the qualified but qualifies the called.” Still, there are some typical signs of a strong diaconal vocation, such as: prayerful, with frequent recourse to the sacraments; eucharistic and Marian devotion; love for the poor; service-oriented; zeal for souls, etc. In short, they are to be spiritually mature Catholic laymen. A good candidate must either be committed to celibate living or have a strong, faith-filled marriage and family life.
Q. Why does the church need
deacons?
A. This is a great question. There
is a growing understanding among theologians of deacons as ministers of the threshold or doorway. This image has many applications, and deacons themselves in their persons have one foot in the “church” as members of the clergy and one foot in the secular world. Pope Francis has called the church a “field hospital.” To extend this analogy, deacons as ministers of the threshold may be seen as “medics,” with one foot on the battlefield alongside the wounded and their comrades, and one foot in the hospital (the church), where they seek to bring the wounded to be treated by the divine physician. There is an ever-increasing need for the mercy of Christ to go across the threshold of the doors of the church out into a hurting world. That’s where deacons are, and that’s why we need them.
The archdiocesan office of the permanent diaconate will hold a series of information nights at different locations within the archdiocese for those interested in exploring the path to becoming a permanent deacon. All information nights begin at 7 p.m. Those aspiring will be given resources to assist in their discernment. Spouses are strongly encouraged to attend. • Sept. 1, Savior Pastoral Center, 12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kansas (Spanish language interpreter available) • Sept. 13, Christ the King Parish, 5973 S.W. 25th St., Topeka (ASL interpreter available) • Sept. 23, Holy Cross Parish, 8311 W. 93rd St., Overland Park • Sept. 28, Immaculate Conception-St. Joseph Parish, 711 N. 5th St., Leavenworth • Oct. 12, Savior Pastoral Center, 12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kansas Attendance at an information night is required for those who intend to apply for admission to the diaconate program this year. For information, contact Leon Suprenant, co-director of the office of the permanent diaconate, by email at: leons@archkck.org; call (913) 647-0358; or visit the website at: archkck.org/diaconate/home/resources.
Q. Are all deacons assigned to
Q.
director or youth minister) are entitled to compensation commensurate with what a layperson would receive for the same job. There is no such thing as a “part-time” deacon, as every deacon is a deacon at all times, just as there are no “part-time” priests and no “part-time” husbands. However, the amount of time the deacon spends doing formal ministry will vary greatly depending on various factors, most notably his family and work situations.
A. The office of the permanent di-
What role does my wife play if I become a permanent deacon?
parish ministry?
A.
Most deacons are assigned to assist at a parish as well as to a ministry that is not parish-specific, such as prison or hospital ministry. A deacon is usually assigned to his home parish or a neighboring parish, depending on pastoral need. How are deacons assigned to their ministries? aconate makes its recommendations to Father Brian Schieber, vicar for clergy, and the priest personnel board, which then makes its recommendations to the archbishop, who makes the final decision.
Q.
Are deacons volunteers or are they compensated for their ministry work? Are they full time or part time?
A.
In a real sense, deacons are “ordained volunteers.” They are not compensated for being deacons and they generally have “day jobs.” However, deacons who are employed by the archdiocese or by their parish (e.g., as an RCIA
A.
The period of formation has been four-and-a-half years. However, this year, the U.S. bishops added another required year, so going forward it will be five-anda-half years. Men who begin formation in the fall of 2022 will be ordained in spring 2028.
Q.
What are the requirements? Is age a factor?
A.
The diaconate is open to Catholic men residing in the archdiocese. Applicants must be at least 29 and under 61 years of age when formation begins in 2022. Obviously there are many other factors considered before an applicant is accepted.
Q. Is this a lifelong commitment? A. Yes, in the sense that no one ever
stops being a deacon. At some point, a deacon may retire from public ministry because of advanced age or ill health, but even then he will continue to be a deacon.
Q. What costs are involved? Do I
pay?
A.
Q.
An annual grant from Call to Share provides for most of the deacon formation expenses. The men in formation are responsible for some expenses, such as books, albs and travel to formation locations.
A. Most men in the program are
How do I begin the application process? What does it involve?
married, and their wives are involved at every stage of the process. A married man will not be ordained to the diaconate without his wife’s consent and clear, unambiguous support. What being the wife of a deacon “looks like” varies from couple to couple. Some wives are active in ministry alongside their husbands, while others prefer to stay in the background, especially when the couple has younger children.
Q.
How long is the permanent diaconate program?
Q. A.
The first required step is to attend one of the information nights this fall, where these and other questions will be answered in greater detail. Many deacons and deacon candidates attend these events to share their own personal experiences as well. From there, those who are interested (“inquirers”) begin a journey of discernment and growth that just might lead to ordination as a deacon. Leon Suprenant is the co-director of the office of the permanent diaconate.