8-14-15 Vol. 37 No. 4

THELEAVEN.COM | VOL. 37, NO. 4 | AUGUST 14, 2015

WE SHALL OVERCOME

Cardinal calls for pro-life movement to expand its efforts as a ‘field hospital’

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — The golden calf of the Bible is a metaphor for the modern idols of individualism and materialism, but these can be overcome by solidarity and community, said Cardinal Sean P. O’Malley, OFM Cap., in a homily on July 27 at the Cathedral of St. Peter here.

Cardinal O’Malley was the main celebrant and homilist at a Mass for those attending the national Diocesan Pro-Life Leadership Conference from July 26 to 29, hosted by the respect life office of the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph and the pro-life office of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and sponsored by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

In his homily, Cardinal O’Malley showed how pro-life values were at the core of Pope Francis’ latest encyclical, “Laudato Si’, on Care for Our Common Home.”

“There is a danger in becoming so fascinated by the gifts that we forget the giver of every good gift, and we allow God to be some sort of anonymous benefactor in our lives,” said Cardinal O’Malley.

“The Holy Father . . . gives us an encyclical about our call to be protectors of the gift,” he continued. “Many environmentalists are population control freaks, always pushing the anti-life agenda, therefore the Holy Father’s teaching is so important. Francis shows us the human ecology and [that] the duty to protect the most sacred gift of all is at the very heart of our concern for the earth, our common home.”

He quoted paragraph 120 of the encyclical which says, “How can we genuinely teach the importance of concern for other vulnerable beings, however troublesome or inconvenient they may be, if we fail to protect a human embryo, even when its presence is uncomfortable and creates difficulties?”

“The culture of death is a byproduct of the materialism and extreme individu-

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

Above, Cardinal Sean P. O’Malley, OFM Cap., was the main celebrant and homilist at a Mass for attendees at the national Diocesan Pro-Life Leadership Conference from July 26 to 29, hosted by the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph and sponsored by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

Right, Archbishop Naumann and Cardinal O’Malley talk following Mass at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kansas. alism of our day,” said the cardinal. “The autonomous self who wants to be the center of the universe, who wants to be the golden calf — the extreme individualism that defines abortion as a right over a woman’s body.”

The recent Planned Parenthood >> See “WE” on page 6

Three honored with People of Life Awards

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — It was an all-star night at the 2015 People of Life Award dinner here on July 27, when honors were given to three pro-life pioneers who were there at the beginning of the battle against the “culture of death.”

The three who were recognized were: Nancy Valko, a nurse; Molly Kelly, a speaker and chastity educator; and Michael Taylor,

Nancy Valko

Molly Kelly

Michael Taylor

a leader of pro-life organizations and campaigns.

They are among the 25 people who have received the People of Life Award since it was estab-

lished by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops in 2007.

The annual awards dinner was part of the national Diocesan Pro-Life Leadership Conference

July 26 to 29, hosted by the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and the Diocese of Kansas CitySt. Joseph and sponsored by the USCCB.

Cardinal Sean O’Malley, OFM Cap., of the Archdiocese of Boston, presented the awards as more than 120 diocesan, state and national Catholic pro-life leaders and guests looked on.

The People of Life Award is given to Catholics who have answered the call issued by St. John Paul II in his 1995 encyclical “Evangelium Vitae” (“The Gospel of Life”), dedicating themselves to pro-life activities and promoting

>> See “LONGTIME” on page 6

2 LOCAL NEWS

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Aug. 20 Nemaha-Marshall regional priests meeting — Sts. Peter and Paul, Seneca

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NAUMANN Aug. 14 Final vows for Sister M. Karollyn, Sisters of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George, Alton, Illinois Aug. 15 Solemnity of the Assumption Mass —Immaculate Conception, Dardenne, Missouri

Mass and groundbreaking­— Santa Marta, Olathe “Discovering Christ” training kickoff — Kansas City, Missouri, chancery

Aug. 16 Religious Sisters Appreciation Day — St. Patrick, Kansas City, Kansas

Aug. 23 Installation of Father Chris Rossman — Annunciation, Baldwin City Aug. 25 Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas board meeting — Chancery

Aug. 17 “Shepherd’s Voice” Recording Finance Council meeting — Savior Pastoral Center Aug. 18 Retired priests meeting — Savior Pastoral Center Vespers and dinner with priests ordained five years or less Aug. 19 Blue Mass — Mater Dei-Assumption, Topeka

Aug. 21 Mass — St. Pius High X High School, Kansas City, Missouri

Aug. 26 Donnelly College president’s “State of the College” — Lake Quivira Aug. 27 Kansas City-St. Joseph cabinet meeting —Kansas City, Missouri, chancery Aug. 28 First profession of vows for Brother Elias Thelen — St. Mary-St. Anthony, Kansas City, Kansas

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AUGUST 14, 2015 | THELEAVEN.COM

THE CATHOLIC CHURCH IN NORTHEAST KANSAS:

GROWING AS DISCIPLES OF JESUS, MAKING DISCIPLES FOR JESUS Archbishop unveils visioning plan

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Knowing where you’re going is important, according to one of America’s greatest philosophers: “If you don’t know where you’re going, you’ll wind up somewhere else,” said Yogi Berra, of the New York Yan-

kees.

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann wants the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas to know where it’s going.

On Jan. 26, Archbishop Naumann and an 11-member Envisioning Leadership Team began a conversation with Catholics all over the archdiocese to hammer out a 10year pastoral vision.

“If it be God’s will, and if I remain healthy, I would be pleased to be able to serve this archdiocese for another 10 years,” wrote Archbishop Naumann in a Jan. 2 letter to focus group members. “Thus, I believe it is an opportune time to pause and reflect on what our efforts have produced and to prayerfully consider what the Lord is calling us to do in the foreseeable To read the new future.”

10-year vision plan, What followed were months of meetings, focus group sessions and go to page 7 listening sessions with Catholics representing various communities and constituencies.

Three questions were asked: • What does the archdiocese do well?

• What would be two or three priorities for the archdiocese moving forward?

• If all goes well, what will the church in northeast Kansas look like in 10 years?

The goal was to get sufficient input to help Archbishop Naumann and his team produce a short document that articulated the archbishop’s vision for the next 10 years.

And today, Archbishop Naumann presents that vision to the Catholics of the archdiocese.

Much of what is in the newly promulgated plan will be familiar to Catholics. Even so, it is ever new, because it represents Jesus’ desire for us to “bear much fruit” and “remain in my love,” so that “my joy might be in you and your joy might be complete” (see Jn 15:8-11).

Study and implementation of the statement are already in the works. For example, the biennial religious education convocation in September, which draws hundreds of religious educators from around the archdiocese, will devote half of its time to the document.

But for the moment, because it is both brief and very accessible, The Leaven is making the entire statement available here to its readers.

“BY THIS IS MY FATHER GLORIFIED, THAT YOU BEAR MUCH FRUIT AND BECOME MY DISCIPLES.” Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799) President: Most Reverend Joseph F. Naumann

Editor Reverend Mark Goldasich, stl frmark.goldasich@theleaven.org

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org

Reporter Jessica Langdon jessica.langdon@theleaven.org

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

Advertising Coordinator Julie Holthaus julie.holthaus@theleaven.org

Published weekly September through May, excepting the Friday the week after Thanksgiving, and the Friday after Christmas; biweekly June through August. Address communications to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Phone: (913) 721-1570; fax: (913) 721-5276; or e-mail at: sub@theleaven.com. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109.

For change of address, provide old and new address and parish. Subscriptions $18/year. Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.

4 LOCAL NEWS

THELEAVEN.COM | AUGUST 14, 2015

Wamego parish dedicates new $2.7 million hall

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

W

AMEGO — St. Bernard Parish here had no sooner finished its new church north of town in 2010 when it began making plans to build some more.

On July 19, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann blessed its newly completed $2.7 million parish hall, office and classroom complex.

Archbishop Naumann was the main celebrant and homilist at the regular Sunday morning Mass before the dedication. The concelebrants were Father Michael Peterson, pastor for the past two years, and Father Earl Dekat, retired. Monsignor Gary Applegate was the master of ceremonies.

“These are important buildings — places that we dedicate also to the Lord, that all that happens here will be to his glory,” said Archbishop Naumann during the building’s blessing after the Mass.

“I congratulate all of you and thank you for your generosity to the parish,” he continued. “This complex you’ve built in a relatively short time shows the great priority you place on your Catholic faith and love for the Lord.”

Father Peterson is very pleased with the high level of support parishioners have given parish building projects.

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Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann blesses the newly completed $2.67 million parish hall, office and classroom complex at St. Bernard in Wamego.

“They’re very generous,” he said. “We’re not a huge parish. We have about 400 families.”

The addition is attached to the northwest side of the church. It has 13,000 square feet above ground and 3,000 square feet below ground for a total of 16,000 square feet.

It has 12 rooms, including a parish hall that can accommodate dinners seating 450, a large kitchen, a multipurpose room with a kitchenette, a youth

room, four classrooms and office areas.

“We’re definitely in a growing area,” said Greg Dekat, parish finance committee member. “We’ve added more than 70 families since we opened the new church in 2010. Some moved away, but the church is fuller than it used to be. There are a lot of young families with kids.”

“The new complex is more than doubled in size

compared to the old hall,” said Father Peterson. “And it’s connected to the church.

Before, we had to drive to the church from the hall, and we’d lose people due to that.

“We just need to pay the rest on our loan, about $1.2 million. We’ve paid close to half of it already.”

The former church, at 8th and Poplar Streets, has been sold to the Unified School District 320.

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Like the church, the new complex has incorporated some items from the former parish site. Nine of the stained glass windows that the new building features — two large and seven smaller — were original to the former church.

A groundbreaking and site blessing for the new complex was held in March 2014, and the building was completed in late June, said Kelly Zachgo, co-chairman of the parish building committee.

The design was by Treanor Architects from Lawrence, and the general contractor was Kansas Building Systems.

There’s plenty of room on the acreage for expansion, said Zachgo.

“The master plan, as far as the site goes, has space for a school if it ever comes to be,” he said. “A rectory is the next phase of the project.”

In addition to blessing the building, Archbishop Naumann also blessed the new low-power Catholic radio station, KSWZ-LP FM-105.3, operated by the not-for-profit Sword of St. George, Inc., which can also be heard over the Internet by going to: KSWZ-LP.com.

LOCAL NEWS 5

AUGUST 14, 2015 | THELEAVEN.COM

Making a difference through Prayer and Action

By Steve Johnson Special to The Leaven

A

TCHISON — Some high school students spend the summer traveling. Others just spend the summer at the pool. And still others get summer jobs.

But teens working with the Prayer and Action team of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas gave up part of their summer and committed themselves to the service of others.

Harder still, they surrendered their cellphones and electronic devices to do it!

“These kids have been great!” said Betty Pilcher, whose Atchison home was being worked on by one of the Prayer and Action teams. “I couldn’t have done this myself, that’s for sure.

They’ve come and cut down trees, worked on my wall, painted my porch.

They’ve just been great.”

Pilcher had been selected to receive the service through Catholic Charities, which helped her apply to the Prayer and Action program. The Prayer and Action leaders had selected Atchison for the site for service this year.

According to Ben Rogers, a seminarian for the archdiocese who worked as part of the Prayer and Action team as his summer assignment, once the site is selected, applications are made available on the archdiocesan website and elsewhere. People can then either apply for help for themselves or nominate others for help.

Two weeks before the start of work, the applications are collected from the different sites. The site coordinator — this year, it was Kate Albrecht from St. John the Evangelist Parish in Lawrence — then reviews them and visits with all the homeowners. She makes sure that each location is both large enough to require a week’s worth of work and within the scope of skills of the high school group. She also makes sure it is a safe location.

“We bring an average of 50 or 60 students through participating youth groups, and they bring chaperones and work for a week,” said Rogers.

“We bring a different group of 50 or 60 students each week for five weeks (through July 17). And we mix them all up, so they get to know other youth in the archdiocese.”

Maur Hill-Mount Academy was the host institution in Atchison, where the students slept on the floor of classrooms. The relatively uncomfortable conditions are an intentional part of the experience.

“Part of the missionary aspect of the

REPORTING ABUSE If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, you should make a report to the Kansas Department for Children and Families Protection Report Center by calling (800) 922-5330. If you or someone you know has been abused by a cleric, employee or volunteer of any archdiocesan parish, school or agency — regardless of when the abuse may have occurred — call the archdiocesan confidential report line at (913) 647-3051 or Dr. Dennis Schemmel, victim assistance coordinator, at (913) 909-2740, after calling local law enforcement. The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas places the protection of children as its first priority. Furthermore, the archdiocese respects the sincere concerns of all individuals who report misconduct, and is thus committed to conducting thorough investigations of all such allegations.

Shawnee Scout earns rank of Eagle

PHOTO BY BEN ROGERS

Two high school students clean the gutters on a home in Atchison as part of the archdiocesan Prayer and Action program. program is to be able to enter into a week of poverty, a week of simplicity,” Rogers said. “So we can lift those things up [to God] and pray for the people we are serving.”

That’s also why the students “unplug” for the week, he added. Despite the privations, many of the students return for more than one year of service.

“I like helping other people,” said Adrian Cisneros, a junior at Bishop Ward High School in Kansas City, Kansas. “I didn’t have any plans last summer, so I decided to go and try it. And I got to meet some really cool people.”

Cisneros enjoyed meeting others in the work group, as well as interacting with the people they were helping. “[Betty Pilcher] has three cats and a dog, so it’s kind of cool to see her with her animals,” he said. “And it’s nice to see how much we can do for her. We cut down all the overgrown grass and trees, and we’re painting her porch.

She’s elderly and she definitely couldn’t do that herself.”

Colleen Adams, from Church of the Nativity Parish in Leawood, is a junior

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It will address one of the major challenges of today’s society: How can I make my daily, often hectic life more prayerful and peaceful? The Rule of Benedict is a practical guide for Christian living. It can offer helpful guidelines and tools for a more prayerful, peace-centered life.

Father Thomas A. Hillenbrand, OSB, STL, received his education and degrees from San Anselmo College in Rome and Notre Dame University. He served as novice master, Pastor on an Indian reservation, Prior in Guatemala, and Abbot at Blue Cloud Abbey, SD, for 16 years.

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at Blue Valley North High School. She was originally influenced to get involved in the Prayer and Action program by her sister, who had participated in previous years. She enjoyed meeting Catholics from across the state, but also meeting those they are helping, like Pilcher.

“It’s just a really rewarding feeling knowing that you’re helping somebody and making their day better,” Adams said. “She is a really nice lady; she’s really loving. It’s super-nice to have somebody so grateful for what we’re doing.”

Jacob Gerber, a senior at Silver Lake High School in Silver Lake, is back for his fourth year of participation in the Prayer and Action program.

“People are always talking about the change that needs to happen in the world, but most of the time they are thinking too broad,” he said. “They don’t think about coming into a small town and directly helping people that need it.

“I mean, this place looks so much better than it did, and that’s making a difference for this woman.”

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SHAWNEE —Cory Roshau Jr., a member of Boy Scout Troop 34 and Sacred Heart Parish here, achieved the rank of Eagle Scout on Sept.

18, 2014.

For his Eagle Scout project, Roshau was in charge of building 25 steps made out of railroad ties on Eagle Path at Sanctuary of Hope in Kansas City, Cory Roshau Jr. Kansas. Sanctuary of Hope is a prayer and retreat center.

Knights host prostate cancer awareness seminar LEAWOOD — St. Michael the Archangel Knights of Columbus Council 12577 — in conjunction with the Faith, Love, Hope, Win and the Prostate Cancer Foundation — invite all men over the age of 40 to attend an informational seminar on prostate cancer awareness at 9 a.m. on Sept. 19 in the St. Michael Parish hall here, located at 14251 Nall Ave. Seating is limited, so make reservations early at: www.kofcstmichael.org/prostate.

The seminar will be moderated by John Holt of WDAF-TV, a prostate cancer survivor, and will feature Dr. David Bolt with KC Urology Care and Dr. Eugene Lee with the University of Kansas Cancer Center.

There is no charge for the event, but any donations will be given to the foundations to support continued research.

6 LOCAL NEWS

THELEAVEN.COM | AUGUST 14, 2015

Longtime leaders honored

>> Continued from page 1

LEAVEN PHOTO BY DOUG HESSE

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann addresses those gathered at the awards dinner of the national Diocesan Pro-Life Leadership Conference held July 26 to 29 in Kansas City and sponsored by the USCCB. Three people were honored with People of Life Awards.

Archbishop delivers keynote to pro-life leaders

By Kevin Kelly Catholic Key Associate Editor

K

ANSAS CITY, Mo. — Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann urged pro-life leaders from around the nation to use the gifts outlined in “The Wizard of Oz” — wisdom, courage and compassion — to advance the pro-life cause.

And as the Holy Year of Mercy approaches, the archbishop especially urged compassion.

“Mercy and compassion have always been central to the church’s pro-life ministry,” Archbishop Naumann told the 70 leaders from 51 dioceses assembled at Kansas City’s Plaza Marriott Hotel July 26-29.

That compassion is apparent, he said, in the number of ministries devoted to helping women in crisis pregnancies and reaching out to heal women and men who have experienced the tragedy of abortion.

“Birthrights, crisis pregnancy centers, pregnancy resource centers, Project Gabriel, residences for pregnant mothers, etc., have sprung up all over our nation, attempting to surround with love and compassion women contemplating the abortion of their unborn child,” he said.

“It is part of our mandate to change the

law, the public policy in the United States that sanctions the killing of unborn children. The law not only permits abortion, but it teaches, particularly to the young, that abortion is an acceptable choice,” Archbishop Naumann said.

“Yet, whether we can restore legal protection to the unborn or not, we have the responsibility to do our best to rescue unborn children with love and surround their frightened and overwhelmed mothers with compassion,” he said.

Archbishop Naumann had special praise for Project Rachel, a ministry active in both Kansas City dioceses, as well as around the nation, to bring healing after abortion.

“This ministry of mercy needs to be initiated, highlighted, renewed and strengthened during the Jubilee of Mercy,” he said.

“It is important that we have the proper resources in place to serve individuals who have had an abortion or have assisted in an abortion, and now deeply regret that choice and desire earnestly to receive God’s forgiveness as well as the grace to forgive themselves and others,” the archbishop said.

“If you do nothing else as a pro-life director this year, I encourage you to pray about and explore opportunities on how

you can strengthen the post-abortive outreach and ministry in your diocese,” he said.

“There have been some remarkable conversion stories — Norma McCorvey (Jane Roe of Roe v. Wade), Dr. Bernard Nathanson, Dr. Beverly McMillan, Carroll Everett, and former Planned Parenthood directors Abby Johnson and Ramona Trevino,” he said.

“These Paul-like conversions reveal the power of God’s grace,” Archbishop Naumann added.

“The Jubilee of Mercy is a time we should offer special prayers for the conversion of those involved with the performance of abortions,” he said.

But that also demands a continuing conversion of those in the pro-life movement.

“We cannot understand the Gospels if we have not experienced God’s mercy in our own lives,” Archbishop Naumann said, urging the pro-life leaders to make frequent confessions.

“We also need to use the brains that God has given us,” he said.

“Our goal is not winning the debate with the advocates of abortion. It is about reaching minds and touching hearts to save lives,” he concluded.

‘We must be protectors of . . . the gift of life’ >> Continued from page 1 exposé videos show a part of this mentality that refuses to recognize the most important gift of all, the dignity of human life, he added. It is also the same extreme individualism that tries to redefine marriage and promotes physician-assisted suicide.

There is, however, an antidote to this poisonous culture of death.

“Pope Francis in so many of his teachings is offering us an antidote to the evils being propagated by this materialistic and highly individualistic modern culture. The antidote is solidarity and community,” said Cardinal O’Malley. “People are most vulnerable to the culture of death when they see themselves as isolated and alone.”

The pro-life movement has to be about building community, he said. It must be a

community that communicates a sense of solidarity and compassion — letting people know they are not alone as they face terrible circumstances.

We all depend on each other, and our choices affect each other, he continued.

Human life depends upon the ministrations of others. By contrast, it is the culture of death that drives people into isolation and despair . . . and to make terrible choices.

“It’s not a matter that we can do whatever we want to do and not have an effect on others around us,” said the cardinal.

“Abortion and euthanasia cheapen all human life.”

For this reason, pro-life people must change laws and change people’s hearts by installing a sense of solidarity and community. Unlike Cain who killed his brother, we are our brother’s

and sister’s keeper.

“We must be protectors of the gifts, especially the most precious gift of all: the gift of life,” said Cardinal O’Malley.

As the church prepares to begin a jubilee year of mercy, the pro-life movement must expand its efforts as a “field hospital” and “rescue the lost sheep on the periphery.”

“Who more [is] on the periphery than those who have had a tragic abortion in their lives?” asked the cardinal.

The pro-life movement must be like the mustard seed that quietly and slowly grows, and the leaven that permeates the dough.

“Our task is to be witnesses that Christ’s mercy is present, that life is precious, and that we are on this earth to take care of each other and protect the gifts,” Cardinal O’Malley concluded.

respect for the dignity of the human person. The honorees have made significant contributions to the culture of life.

“Last Sunday [were] the inductions into the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown,” said Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.

“This is kind of the Hall of Fame for pro-life work and ministry,” he continued. “Personally, I’m a baseball fan, but I’d much rather be here tonight. The achievements of those we recognize tonight are much more significant than those of any pro athlete.”

The evening was especially meaningful to Archbishop Naumann, formerly a priest and auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of St. Louis and a member of the USCCB Committee on Pro-Life Activities.

“I feel personally gratified because I know each of the honorees,” said Archbishop Naumann. “I’ve worked with each one of them.”

The first honoree was Nancy Valko, from St. Louis.

She has worked as a nurse for 46 years in many areas, including critical care, hospice and oncology. She formerly served as president of the Missouri Nurses for Life, as a board member of the St. Louis Down Syndrome Association and as co-chair of the St. Louis Archdiocesan Respect Life Committee.

The second honoree was Molly Kelly from Philadelphia.

As the widowed mother of eight children, Kelly was a tireless speaker on chastity, prenatal development, and lifeaffirming options for pregnant girls.

Kelly is also the founding president of the Pennsylvania Educational Foundation and the Delaware Valley Alliance, which provides support for women with problem pregnancies.

The third honoree was Michael Taylor, from Alexandria, Virginia.

Taylor is counted among the founding fathers and mothers of the pro-life movement, active when efforts to legalize abortion on demand were being made on the state level, before the U.S. Supreme Court’s 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling. Taylor was crucial to the first pro-life victory in the U.S. Congress prior Roe v. Wade.

He organized pro-life efforts both at the grass-roots level and for the U.S. bishops from 1968 to 1979. Taylor helped form the National Committee for a Human Life Amendment and later returned to lead it.

He helped form the first bishops’ pastoral plan for pro-life activities. He is responsible for the success of pro-life postcard campaigns that shut down the congressional post office.

Taylor served as associate director of the Secretariat for Pro-Life Activities from 1975 to 1979 and helped design the annual Respect Life Program. He is credited for reviving the National Right to Life Committee, and served as executive secretary and later executive director.

In closing the evening, Archbishop Naumann quoted Pope Paul VI, who said that what the church needs today is not so much teachers, but witnesses.

“These are great witnesses who we recognize tonight. So, we thank you Nancy, Mike and Molly for the great example you have given us,” said the archbishop.

“And really, everybody in this room could be honored for the hard work you are doing,” he continued. “But hopefully these examples, these witnesses, give us all motivation to continue our efforts to protect life, to protect conscience rights, to protect the weak and the vulnerable and rebuild a culture of life in our country.”

A Ten-Year Mutually Shared Vision for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas A Message from Archbishop Naumann

COMPLETE JOY

Growing as Disciples of Jesus, Making Disciples for Jesus “By this is my Father glorified, that you bear much fruit and become my disciples. As the Father loves me, so I also love you. Remain in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, just as I kept my Father’s commandments and remain in his love.

I have told you this so that my joy might be in you and your joy might be complete” (Jn 15: 8-11).

I

his message to the world’s youth by challenging them to be witnesses of joy: “Christianity is sometimes depicted as a way of life that stifles our freedom and goes against our desires for happiness and joy. But this is far from the truth. Christians are men and women who are truly happy because they know that they are not alone.

They know that God is always holding them in his hands. It is up to you, young followers of Christ, to show the world that faith brings happiness and joy, which is true, full and enduring.”

What is complete joy?

Did you ever wonder what Jesus meant when Our Lord told his disciples that his desire was for his joy to be in them and for their joy to be complete? What is this full joy Jesus wants for his disciples?

Who among us does not desire joy? It seems ironic Jesus speaks of joy in the portion of the Gospel in which Our Lord is preparing his disciples for his own imminent death. What is the nature of this joy that even death cannot dampen?

The immediate context for Our Lord’s expression of his desire for the disciples’ joy is his teaching on the vine and the branches.

With this image, Jesus talks about the necessity for the branches to be connected to the vine — both for their own vitality and for their fruitfulness.

III

Greatest joy: bringing another to encounter Jesus

II

Living in God The joy that Jesus desires for his disciples is something quite different from the relentless pursuit of pleasure that our culture encourages. Pope Emeritus Benedict in a message to youth in 2012 spoke about the false happiness promoted by materialism and consumerism. The Holy Father proposed enduring joy can only be found when we are united to God: “How many people are surrounded by material possessions yet their lives are filled with

d e s p a i r, sadness and emptiness! To have lasting joy, we need to live in love and truth.

We need to live in God.” This is precisely what Jesus meant when he spoke about the essential connection of the branches to the vine. If we are not united to God, then enduring joy is impossible. Pope Benedict posed this question to the

church’s yo u n g people: “How often . . . do we see that choosing to build our lives apart from God and his will brings disappointment, sadness and a sense of failure? The experience of sin, which is the refusal to follow God and an affront to his friendship, brings gloom to our hearts.”

Pope Benedict concluded

Our hearts were made for God and he alone can satisfy our deepest longings. Our experience of God’s complete, unconditional and faithful love for us revealed in Jesus has the ability to bring incredible joy to us. However, as I ponder Our Lord’s words in the Gospel, it is apparent there is an essential ingredient to this complete joy that the disciples were not able to experience fully until Our Lord’s physical departure from this world.

We have the capacity for a greater joy than even the happiness we receive from experiencing God’s love for us. We encounter a new and more complete level of joy, when we allow ourselves to be the human instruments >> Continued on the next page

of Jesus Christ. Central to what it means to be Catholic is the development of a friendship with Jesus through prayer and reflection.

2) Evangelization: The commission that Jesus gave to the church was to go and make disciples of all nations. The church can never be content with itself as it is currently constituted. We must always be guided by a missionary impulse to share the gift of our faith with others.

3) Catholic education/catechesis: An essential component of the church’s ministry is the education of the next generation of disciples, as well as the continuing formation of all of its members.

4) Outreach to those in need: The church is called to make the love of Jesus real and tangible in the world today, especially to the poor, the vulnerable and those on the peripheries.

5) A spirituality of stewardship: Catholic spirituality begins with profound gratitude resulting from the realization that everything, including life itself, is God’s gift. Thus, the question for every Christian is: What is God calling me to do with all that he has entrusted to me?

The purpose of developing an archdiocesan vision for the next 10 years was not to abandon these five pastoral priorities. Each of them encapsulates an essential part of the church’s mission. While continuing to address each of these priorities as part of the necessary work of the church, the challenge given to the Visioning Team was to discern where to concentrate the limited human and material resources of the church during the next 10 years in order to best strengthen and increase the vitality and vibrancy of the church in northeast Kansas.

>> Continued from previous page Our Lord uses in bringing his love to others.

Jesus, immediately after speaking of this complete joy, reminds the disciples of his commandment to love one another as he has loved them. Forecasting the manner of his own death, Jesus counsels his disciples that there is no greater love than to lay down your life for another.

One of the ways that we experience this complete joy is by striving to love others as Jesus loved — to follow Our Lord’s path of sacrificial love by laying down our lives for the good of others.

Married couples are called to do this for each other. Parents literally lose their life as they knew it as they make huge sacrifices for the well-being of their children.

We recognize this complete joy in saints like Mother Teresa and St. Francis, both of whom embraced a life of complete simplicity in order to bring the love of God to the poor.

The greatest gift we can give someone is to lead them to Jesus. The ultimate joy comes from helping another encounter Jesus Christ. Pope Francis has challenged every Catholic to become what he terms a “missionary disciple.” In “The Joy of the Gospel,” Pope Francis wrote: “When the Church summons Christians to take up the task of evangelization, she is simply pointing to the source of authentic personal fulfillment” (10).

Remaining connected to the vine is not just for the continued vitality of the branches, but it is also for their fruitfulness. If we are to be a true disciple of Jesus, it is not enough to just keep the faith, as difficult as that may seem at times. To be an authentic follower of Jesus, our life must produce good fruit. We must lead others to Jesus and, in doing so, we will experience the most complete and profound joy possible.

My desire for every Catholic in the archdiocese is for each of us to taste the complete joy — the abundant life — Our Lord promises to his disciples. To experience God’s love for us and to bring others to know Jesus is a recipe for an abiding joy that no one and nothing can steal from us.

IV

Anniversaries: a time to remember and give thanks On Jan. 15, I observed the 10th anniversary of serving as the archbishop of Kansas City in Kansas. It was 10 years ago this past June 29 that I received the pallium from Pope Benedict XVI in the Basilica of St. Peter in Rome. The pallium is a liturgical vestment worn over the shoulders on the outside of the chasuble by a metropolitan archbishop symbolizing his solidarity with the Successor of Peter, as well as his pastoral responsibilities for the good of the people in his archdiocese and province.

Anniversaries are moments to reflect upon the past and to look forward to the future. From the vantage point of today, I am amazed at how quickly 10 years have passed. I am also filled with gratitude for the many blessings during my first decade as archbishop.

For example, in the past 10 years we have experienced: 1) an increase in priestly ordinations; 2) the inauguration of the permanent diaconate; 3) the arrival and flourishing of new religious communities (Apostles of the Interior Life, Community of the Lamb, Sisters of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George, Fraternity of the Poor of Jesus Christ, Society of St. Augustine, Sisters of St. Anne); 4) establishment of the School of Faith as a public association of the faithful, assisting with adult faith formation, especially

VII

Mutually shared vision the ongoing formation of Catholic school teachers; 5) the Spiritual Mentorship Program, training individuals to assist others to grow in their prayer life; 6) “Faith: Love it, Learn it, Live it,” the Year of Faith initiative during which thousands participated in opportunities to deepen their prayer and faith life; 7) increased Marian devotion (promotion of Marian consecration and the family rosary — the gathering of 25,000 to pray a global living rosary at Kauffman Stadium); 8) the My House ministry, promoting the church’s beautiful teaching of the theology of the body and helping those struggling with pornographic addiction; 9) “Living in Love” retreats, helping couples strengthen their marriages; 10) the opening of St. James Academy, which today has near capacity enrollment; 11) the growth of parish retreat programs (Christ Renews His Parish, Light of the World, etc.); 12) the generosity of the Catholic community to our parishes, Call to Share, Catholic Charities, the Catholic Education Foundation, etc.

This is by no means a complete or exhaustive list. It is astounding to reflect upon all that the priests, religious and laity have accomplished under the inspiration and guidance of the Holy Spirit. These accomplishments have little or nothing to do with me. Most of them were already in motion before I arrived in Kansas and were the natural progression of what was already happening.

V

A time to look forward Aware of how quickly these 10 years have passed and conscious that I have less than 9 years before my 75th birthday (the

Complete joy comes about from bringing others to Jesus. date upon which every bishop must submit to the Holy Father his resignation), I feel the clock is ticking on my time of service to the people of the Archdiocese.

This prompted me to ask the question: What are the most important initiatives we could undertake in the next decade to build up and strengthen the church in northeast Kansas? To answer that question, I assembled a Visioning Team of 11 individuals (priests, religious and laity) to help me articulate a shared vision for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.

After gathering input from listening sessions, focus groups, parish councils, the priests’ council, the archdiocesan pastoral council and other advisory bodies, we attempted to discern the key themes and insights from all this information.

VI

The context for the vision The team, aware that this vision was not being developed in a vacuum, wanted it to reflect the direction that Pope Francis is giving to the worldwide Catholic community. We also wanted the vision to build upon the five priorities that for the past 10 years I have asked all of our parishes and ministries to use to guide their pastoral activity. These priorities provide a framework for understanding essential dimensions of the church’s mission.

1) Conversion: At the heart of the church’s ministry is facilitating for its members an encounter with the person

The Visioning Team first developed a statement of purpose for the archdiocese: “Under Our Heavenly Father’s providential care, guided by the Holy Spirit and in humble response to the call of Jesus to go and make missionary disciples, we, the Catholic Church of northeast Kansas, are committed to embody the life and mission of Jesus through word, sacrament and service so that all God’s people in the archdiocese may hear and encounter the living Christ and the joy of the Gospel.”

There is a great deal of meaning, thought and prayer packed into this concise statement of purpose. However, it is still too long for most to commit to memory.

The Visioning Team next created a shorter statement of vision that incorporated the central meaning of the purpose statement, but could easily be committed to memory by everyone in the archdiocese: “The Catholic Church in northeast Kansas: Growing as Disciples of Jesus; Making Disciples for Jesus.”

Growing as Disciples of Jesus; Making Disciples for Jesus! I ask every member of the archdiocese to memorize these two phrases. They summarize our identity and mission as Catholics.

Becoming a disciple of Jesus is never a done deal. If we are not growing as a disciple, then we are dying as a disciple.

Following Jesus is a lifelong journey. As the circumstances of our lives change, we have to learn to apply the eternal truths of our faith to the reality of our present life.

To be a disciple of Jesus, each one of us is called to make disciples for Jesus.

Initially, we might feel intimidated or threatened by the challenge of leading others to Jesus. Yet, if we fail to embrace this part of Christian discipleship, we are depriving ourselves of experiencing the

complete joy that Our Lord desires for each of us.

VIII

Key initiatives How do we make this vision not just an idea or a theory, but a reality? To respond to this question, I am asking our parishes and ministries to concentrate resources over the next 18-24 months to implement three key initiatives.

Narrowing the focus to three key initiatives was difficult, but essential in order to make the implementation of the vision achievable. Our three key initiatives are: 1) Build a culture of evangelization across the archdiocese; 2) Strengthen the vocation of marriage and family life; 3) Cultivate relationships by engaging in the corporal and spiritual works of mercy.

Each of the key initiatives has two to three goals with specific dates for their accomplishment during the next two years. The key initiatives will then be revisited and may be continued with new goals or replaced with another key initiative.

IX

Growing as Disciples of Jesus; Making Disciples for Jesus I was delighted that in all the input the Visioning Team received from all our consultations, the overriding priority was evangelization. Frankly, I do not believe that, if we had done a similar process 10 years ago, we would have had this result.

This is the fruit of the teaching of our recent popes, beginning with Pope Paul VI through to Pope Francis. The Successors of Peter have been reminding us for

decades how central evangelization is to the work of the church.

The goals under building a culture of evangelization call for equipping a significant number of individuals to be missionary disciples and to help parishes become evangelizing communities.

For the vast majority of us, the context for our growth as disciples of Jesus is within family life. Similarly, some of the most important efforts for making disciples best occur within the family. Marriage is the foundation of the family. With all the confusion about the very nature of marriage and all the stresses placed on married couples, we as a church need to invest more in helping couples deepen their love and strengthen their relationships.

At the baptism of children, parents accept the responsibility for being the first and primary teachers of their children in the practice of the faith. Yet many parents feel ill-equipped for this important responsibility. Under our second key initiative — strengthen the vocation of marriage and family life — we want to develop a plan to better equip and assist parents in their crucial role in forming their children in the faith.

The third key initiative — cultivate relationships by engaging in the corporal and spiritual works of mercy — is focused on helping individuals and parish communities discover Christ in the midst of our efforts to bring his love to others.

This initiative was inspired in large part

by Pope Francis. The implementation of this key initiative will offer opportunities for the joy of communicating the love of Jesus to others in very real and practical ways.

At the archdiocesan level, we will be asking all of our agencies and ministries to discern how they can contribute to the implementation of these key initiatives.

We will also reallocate existing resources and attempt to raise additional resources to help implement this vision.

One of the key components to Archbishop Naumann’s vision is strengthening the sacrament of matrimony.

However, for this vision to have its desired impact much will have to happen at the parish level. I am asking all pastors, in consultation with their parish councils and finance councils, to develop a plan on how to implement this vision in the unique circumstances of their local community.

X

Abundant life and complete joy During my first 10 years as archbishop, some of the best things that happened were completely unplanned and unanticipated. During the next 10 years, I want to remain flexible and open to recognizing more surprises from the Holy Spirit.

At the same time, to be good stewards of God’s gifts, I am convinced of the importance of planning and strategizing how best to build up God’s kingdom in America’s Heartland.

There are many reasons for Catholics in the United States today to feel discouraged and even defeated, e.g., the Court’s redefinition of marriage, the large number of children being born out of wedlock, one million-plus abortions annually, the harvesting and selling of tissue and organs from aborted babies, the alarming number of women and children living in poverty, our broken immigration system, etc.

However, discouragement and despair are fruits of the devil, not the Holy Spirit. Jesus is inviting each of us to join him for a great adventure. Our Lord wants us to participate in the liberating and lifegiving ministry he inaugurated. Jesus invites us to experience the joy of helping to build the kingdom of God in this time and place.

The first disciples had no material resources and had been given a seemingly impossible mission to go and make disciples of all nations. Yet, armed only with their experience of Our Lord’s love and the Holy Spirit, in a relatively short time they transformed a pagan world. It is that same Holy Spirit who is eager to empower us to change an increasingly secularized culture.

Jesus did not promise his disciples an easy life. However, he did promise that he would be with them until the end of time.

Jesus wants each of us in the unique circumstances of our lives to bring the comfort of his love and the joy of his Gospel to many others.

I am excited about the implementation of this vision over the next 10 years. I believe that the Holy Spirit is calling us to be much more intentional in sharing the gift of our Catholic faith with others. Jesus wants to use us to help many others to encounter him and experience his love.

At the same time, Our Lord desires for us to experience right now, not just in the hereafter, the abundant life promised to his disciples. The complete joy that Jesus promises is a natural fruit of our striving to become better and more faithful disciples by leading others to Jesus. Let us embark on this adventure together encouraging each other to grow as disciples of Jesus, while seeking to make disciples for Jesus.

Given on the 4th day of August, 2015 The Feast of St. John Vianney, Priest Co-Patron of the Archdiocese

+ Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas

MUTUALLY SHARED VISION OUR SACRED PURPOSE:

Under Our Heavenly Father’s providential care, guided by the Holy Spirit and in humble response to the call of Jesus to go and make missionary disciples, we the Catholic Church of northeast Kansas are committed to embody the life and mission of Jesus through word, sacrament and service so that all God’s people in the archdiocese may hear and encounter the living Christ and the joy of the Gospel.

OUR TEN-YEAR STATEMENT OF VISION:

The Catholic Church in Northeast Kansas: Growing as Disciples of Jesus, Making Disciples for Jesus.

OUR FIVE OVERALL PASTORAL PRIORITIES

• CONVERSION • EVANGELIZATION • ALL FORMS OF CATHOLIC EDUCATION •OUTREACH TO THOSE IN NEED •STEWARDSHIP

OUR THREE KEY INITIATIVES: What we will address and develop over an 18-24-month time period, through 2017

n BUILD A CULTURE OF EVANGELIZATION ACROSS THE ARCHDIOCESE Goals: • Equip individuals to be agents of evangelization by developing and rolling out a Disciple-2-Disciple training program in each pastoral region (8) by Pentecost 2017.

• Establish four to six benchmarks by which each parish measures the intentionality of their evangelical efforts by Sept. 30, 2016.

• Identify and equip at least one pilot parish in each pastoral region (8) that models a culture of intentional evangelization by Pentecost 2017. n STRENGTHEN THE VOCATION OF MARRIAGE AND FAMILY LIFE Goals: • Summon and equip couples to better live the heroic call to Christian marriage by inviting each married couple in the archdiocese to commit to participate in a marriage enrichment activity

by February 2017.

• Devise and communicate a strategy for strengthening and equipping parents to be the primary teachers of the faith

by Sept. 1, 2016. n CULTIVATE RELATIONSHIPS BY ENGAGING IN THE CORPORAL AND SPIRITUAL WORKS OF MERCY Goals: • On Dec. 7, 2015, the beginning of the Holy Year of Mercy, parishes will invite individuals and families in northeast Kansas to make commitments to regularly engage in one or more of the corporal or spiritual works of mercy during the Jubilee Year.

• By Easter Sunday 2016, each parish (or parish cluster) will commit to new opportunities, or recommit to existing opportunities, for partnering with other parishes or organizations in order to better encounter Christ in one another.

10 LOCAL NEWS Mary Carolyn (Suther) and Alvin Gerstner, members of Christ the King Parish, Topeka, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 14. The couple was married by Father Frank Horvat at St. Columbkille Church in Blaine.

Their children are: Damian Gerstner, Parkville, Missouri; Jerrod Gerstner, St. Louis; and Jenea Chartier, Holton. They also have eight grandchildren.

Judy (Bauman) and James Wohletz, members of Mater Dei Parish, Topeka, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on July 31 with a family trip. Their children are: Donna, Brian, Brad, Carla, Kevin and Dana. They also have 13 grandchildren.

Charlene (O’Bryan) and J. Patrick Brazil, members of Christ the King Parish in Topeka, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a family vacation in Breckenridge, Colorado, with their children — Michelle Brown, Overland Park; and Jody Brazil, Shawnee — along with their spouses and five grandchildren. A daughter, Erin, is deceased. The couple was married in St. Francis Church in St. Paul on Aug. 7, 1965.

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THELEAVEN.COM | AUGUST 14, 2015 Ann and Duane Vock, members of St. Pius X Parish, Mission, will celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary on Aug. 14.

The couple was married at St. Michael Church in Coleridge, Nebraska, on Aug. 14, 1950. They plan to celebrate their anniversary with their children. Their children are: Dennis Vock, Diane Schmidt and Beth Vock. They also have three grandchildren.

Rita and Andrew Schieber, members of Queen of the Holy Rosary, Wea, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 15 with a Mass at St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood, followed by a family dinner.

The couple was married on Aug. 7, 1965, at St. Gregory Church in Maryville, Missouri. Their children are: Leon Schieber, Lenexa; Father Brian Schieber, Leawood; Tina Haney, Olathe; and Greg Schieber, Topeka. They also have nine grandchildren.

Doreen and Frank Donovan, members of St. Benedict Church, Atchison, celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on July 29.

The couple was married on July 29, 1950, in Atchison. They have four daughters, 12 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

They celebrated with a family dinner.

Regina (Beiga) and Lawrence Page, members of Sacred Heart Parish, Leavenworth, will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary on Aug. 16. The couple was married at Hammer Field in Fresno, California,

by Father Franklyn Karp. Their children are: Lawrence Page Jr., Albuquerque, New Mexico; Rosemary Prieto, Garland, Texas; Patricia Harman, O’Fallon, Missouri; and Kenneth Page, Suwanee, Georgia. They also have 12 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Joe and Cathy (Berthelsen) Boyle, members of Christ the King Parish, Topeka, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 23 after returning from a trip to Ireland.

The couple was married at St. Jean de Baptiste Church in Sioux City, Iowa, on Aug. 21, 1965. Their children are: Rick Boyle, Lincoln, Nebraska; Cindy Pounds, Olathe; Becky Dodge, Topeka; and Kelly Boyle, Papillion, Nebraska. They also have eight grandchildren. They are celebrating at the Lied Lodge in Nebraska City, Nebraska, with family.

NEW ANNIVERSARY POLICY

Suzanne (Flanner) and Tom Fisch, members of Curé of Ars Parish, Leawood, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 14. Father Dave Polek, who officiated their wedding in 1965 at Redemptorist Church in Kansas City, Missouri, will bless the couple and celebrate a Mass for them.

A dinner party will follow. Their children are: Craig, Amy, Nancy, Matthew and Kari.

They also have nine grandchildren.

Alvin and Delores (Kracht) Sedlacek, members of St. Gregory Parish, Marysville, will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary on Aug. 16 with a Mass, followed by a dinner at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Marysville.

The couple was married on Aug. 9, 1945. Their children are: Judy Kuckelman, Seneca; David Sedlacek, Marysville; Yvonne Potter, Kansas City, Missouri; John Sedlacek, Marysville; Sharon Peeks, Marysville; and Lisa Swanson, Hiawatha.

They also have 18 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

• The Leaven prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th notices.

• Announcements are due eight days before the desired publication date.

• Announcements must be typed.

Send notices to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, attn: anniversaries; or send an email to: todd.habiger@theleaven.org.

LOCAL NEWS 11

AUGUST 14, 2015 | THELEAVEN.COM

Benedictine Sisters celebrate gold, silver jubilees

A

TCHISON — Five Benedictine Sisters celebrated 50th anniversaries in monastic life, and a sixth celebrated her 25th anniversary, on July 12 at Mount St. Scholastica here.

Sisters celebrating their golden jubilee were: • Sister Susan Holmes is a hospice chaplain at Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph, Missouri. Sister Susan was baptized at St. Agnes Parish in Roeland Park and served as a religious education coordinator and pastoral minister/associate at Holy Trinity, Lenexa, and Good Shepherd, Shawnee, among others.

• Sister Cecilia Olson is a Nebraska native whose teaching career included students at every grade level, most recently teaching Benedictine spirituality at Benedictine College in Atchison.

Among the schools where she taught are Pius X in Mission, St. Agnes in Roeland Park, and St. Matthew in Topeka.

Sister Cecilia also served as a parish liturgist at St. Thomas More in Kansas City, Missouri, and as liturgist and director of formation for Mount St. Scholastica.

• Sister Carol Ann Petersen is the founder and director of the Keeler Women’s Center in Kansas City, Kansas. Sister Carol Ann previously was associate superintendent of schools for the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph and was the principal at various Catholic schools in Kansas and Nebraska, including Christ the King in Kansas City,

PHOTO BY ROX STEC, ROX’S IMAGES

Six Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica in Atchison celebrated their jubilees in July. They are, from left, Sister Susan Holmes, 50 years; Sister Cecilia Olson, 50 years; Sister Carol Ann Petersen, 50 years; Sister Elaine Fischer, 25 years; Sister Esther Fangman, 50 years; and Sister Mary Elizabeth Schweiger, 50 years.

Kansas, and Atchison Catholic Elementary School in Atchison.

• Sister Elaine Fischer celebrated her silver jubilee. A native of Ottawa who attended Sacred Heart school, she is a graduate of Kansas State University with a degree in biochemistry. Sister Elaine was an EMT and firefighter with the Atchison Fire Department before becoming the director of maintenance at Mount St. Scholastica.

• Sister Esther Fangman is a licensed clinical professional counselor whose practice in Kansas City, Missouri, includes counseling individuals, couples and families, as well as counseling for survivors of torture and war. Sister Esther previously served as president of the Federation of St. Scholastica from 1998 to 2010. She also is a counselor at the Keeler Women’s Center in Kansas City, Kansas.

• Sister Mary Elizabeth Schweiger is on the staff of the Sophia Center at Mount St. Scholastica. Sister Mary Elizabeth is a native of Lenexa, who attended Holy Trinity School and St. Joseph High School. She taught elementary school in Iowa and Kansas City, Kansas, and also served parishes in Kansas and Missouri as a pastoral associate and liturgist.

12 CLASSIFIEDS EMPLOYMENT Reporter - The Leaven is seeking a full-time reporter to join its national award-winning staff. Position requires a practicing Catholic with excellent news and feature writing skills; a journalism degree and basic photography skills a great plus. Applicant must have a strong work ethic, a good working knowledge of the Catholic Church, and be available to work nights and weekends with the ability to travel for assignments within the archdiocese. Ideal candidate will be a quick and eager learner, and be enthusiastic about sharing the faith stories of the people of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. Proficiency in Microsoft Word is required; experience with social media, InDesign, and WordPress desired. A complete job description is available on the archdiocesan website at: www.archkck. org/employment. Interested individuals should mail cover letter, resume, application AND at least three published writing samples to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, Feature Writer Search, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, or send via email to: jobs@archkck.org. Applicants with samples of photography (three to five digital images only or a link to your online portfolio) may submit via email to the same email address. Application deadline: Aug. 21.

Advertising coordinator and bookkeeper - The Leaven is seeking a full-time advertising coordinator and bookkeeper to join its national award-winning staff. Position requires a practicing Catholic with a minimum of two years bookkeeping or accounts payable/receivable experience or college degree in related field. Applicant must be: detail-oriented, able to work well independently and with others, a quick and enthusiastic learner, and eager to contribute to the larger mission of The Leaven. Interest in writing, photography and website management a huge plus. A complete job description is available on the archdiocesan website at: www.archkck.org/employment.

Interested individuals should mail cover letter, resume and application by Aug. 21 to Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, Leaven Advertising Search, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, or send via email to jobs@archkck.org.

Positions - St. Elizabeth School in Kansas City, Missouri, is looking to fill several part-time positions for the upcoming school year (extended care workers, early childhood assistants, and substitute teachers). Hourly rate is $10 - $12. If interested, please contact Joann Aubuchon by email at: jaubuchon@stekcschool.org or call (816) 523-7100.

Full- and part-time facility maintenance assistants St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood, is seeking one full- (evening shift) and one part-time (morning hours) facility assistants. Responsibilities will include light janitorial duties, setup and tear down for meetings and other functions, miscellaneous cleaning and maintenance projects. The full-time position is eligible for the archdiocesan benefits package. For complete details, please see our website at: www.stmichaelcp.org.

Teachers - St. Agnes Early Education Center, Roeland Park, is currently looking for teachers to work with children ages 1-5 years of age. These positions are for teachers to work in the toddler, two’s, and pre-K classrooms.

The teaching positions would be between the hours of 7 a.m. - 6 p.m., Mon. - Fri. The right candidate will need to be at least 18 years old, be physically able to meet the demands of working with young children, have a positive attitude and be energetic, flexible, creative and patient.

A high school diploma or GED is required and one year or more of experience working in a Kansas licensed child care facility or early education college coursework is a plus. Applicant must meet the Kansas Department of Health and Environment qualifications for lead teachers.

If you are interested in being considered for these openings or know of anyone who might be interested, email your resume to Susie Smith, director, at: smith.susan@ stagneskc.org or call (913) 262-1689.

Faith formation assistant - St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Parish is seeking a full-time faith formation assistant. The qualified candidate will be a highly motivated self-starter with proficiency in Microsoft Office as well as excellent organizational and prioritizing skills.

Duties include, but are not limited to: staffing the frontdesk, registration for religious education, maintaining accurate class and mailing lists, generating mailings, administrative support in terms of document creation and copying. For a detailed job description, contact information, and instructions on how to submit a resume, please go to employment opportunities on the parish website at: www.stmichaelcp.org.

Parish life coordinator - St. Michael the Archangel Parish, 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 the involvement of our members in the life of the parish. This includes helping parishioners make the most of their time and talents, as well as communicating the multitude of opportunities available for participation through various means including social media. For a copy of the complete job description, contact information and instructions on how to submit a resume, please go to employment opportunities on the website at: www.stmichaelcp.org.

Liturgy coordinator - St. Michael the Archangel Church, Leawood, seeks a full-time liturgy coordinator to prepare liturgical ministers, spaces and artifacts for the celebration of the sacred mysteries. The successful candidate will be a practicing Catholic in good standing, familiar

THELEAVEN.COM | AUGUST 14, 2015 with all aspects of Roman Catholic liturgical tradition, possessing a working knowledge of pertinent liturgical documents, books, rubrics and artifacts. The position requires strong organizational and communication skills, initiative, responsibility and flexibility. Regular weekend and some evening hours. Minimum academic requirement: bachelor’s degree or equivalent in related field. Background screening and completion of the Virtus “Protecting God’s Children” course are mandatory.

Salary commensurate with education and experience.

Benefits according to archdiocesan policy. For a copy of the complete job description, please go to employment opportunities online at: www.stmichaelcp.org. Send a cover letter, resume and three professional references to Dr. Kevin Vogt, director, by email at: kevin.vogt@st michaelcp.org.

Teaching positions - St. Ann Young Child Center, Prairie Village, is seeking to fill a preschool aide position for Mon., Wed., and Fri. from 8 - 11:45 a.m. For more information, call Tati at (816) 716-4676.

Lead technician - Servpro of Lawrence, an industry leading cleaning and restoration company, is looking for a lead technician. This position will work on water mitigation projects, mold remediation, fire cleanup and restoration, and air duct cleaning. The desired candidate will be a self-starter, motivated, reliable and have a good work history. Please send your resume by email to: toneill@embarqmail.com.

Drivers - Special Beginnings Early Learning Center is seeking part-time drivers for its school-age program located in Lenexa. Candidates must be able to drive a 13-passenger minibus, similar to a 15-passenger van.

CDL not required, but must have an excellent driving record. Candidates would pick up children from area schools and then work directly with them when arriving back at the center. Experience preferred. Must have strong work ethic and the ability to work with children.

Insurance provided. Background check will be conducted. Great opportunity for retired persons or those seeking a second job. Job responsibilities include: ensuring safety and well-being of children who are being transported at all times, including loading and unloading.

Driving short, round-trip routes to elementary schools in Lenexa/Olathe area. Summer only: Driving short, roundtrip routes to two Lenexa city pools. Maintaining mileage log. Keeping interior of vehicle clean. Apply by sending an email to chris@specialbeginningsonline.com or in person at 10216 Pflumm Rd., Lenexa KS 66215.

Director of clinical services - Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Denver is seeking a Colorado licensed or license-eligible psychologist to serve as director of our faith-based psychology services ministry, Regina Caeli Clinical Services (RCCS). RCCS provides comprehensive psychological services consistent with the teachings of the church. In addition, RCCS serves as a national APPIC internship and residency training site. Supervisory experience is required. Must be a Catholic. Please apply online at: www.ccdenver.org. EEO/AA. Religious education coordinator - St. Matthew Church, Topeka, is accepting applications for a full-time religious education coordinator. This person will be responsible, in collaboration with the pastor and principal, for the religious and sacramental formation of children/youth at the parish. They are to be a practicing Catholic in good standing, have a degree in theology/education (equivalent experience may be considered), must possess organization and people skills, a proficiency in computers and software (e.g., MS Office) and must have experience in budgeting and fundraising. Interested applicants are asked to submit their cover letter and resume to Father John M. Torrez, 925 S.E. 28th St., Topeka, KS 66605; or send an email to: frjohn@saintmatthews.org.

Food service - Full- and part-time positions available.

Day, night and weekends. Please send an email with work history, hours available, name and phone number to Ross’s Catering at: rosscatering@kc.rr.com.

Assistant teachers - St. Joseph Early Education Center, Shawnee, has positions available for its school age after-school care program. Mon. - Fri., 3:30 - 6 p.m. The right candidate must be at least 17 years of age. Please call (913) 248-4589 or send an email to: tgavila@stjoe shawnee.org.

Assistant teachers - St. Joseph Early Education Center, Shawnee, has positions available in its infant rooms.

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age. Please call (913) 248-4589 or send an email to: tgavila@ stjoeshawnee.org.

Substitute teachers - St. Joseph Early Education Center, Shawnee, is looking for substitutes in our center, ranging from the infant to elementary age programs.

Please call (913) 248-4589 or send an email to: tgavila@ stjoeshawnee.org.

Development position - Hayden High School is accepting applications for a development/fundraising position.

The duties will include management of the annual auction, concessions, bingo, record keeping and other functions of the PACE organization, along with marketing and communications responsibilities. The applicant should be a practicing Catholic and preferably have experience in development, fundraising and/or management. Please send an email with a letter of interest and resume to Rick Strecker at: streckerr@haydenhigh.org or by mail to 401 S.W. Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606.

Safe drivers needed - Assisted Transportation seeks caring and reliable drivers to transport K-12 students in Overland Park, Olathe and/or Kansas City, Kansas, in our minivans. CDL not required. Retirees encouraged to apply. Learn more or apply online at: www.assisted transportation.com or call (913) 262-5190 for more information. EOE. Teacher assistant - Special Beginnings, Lenexa, is seeking full- or part-time teacher assistants at all locations.

We are looking for a teacher assistant candidate who has an excellent work ethic, 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. Teacher assistants will work with the lead teacher to care for and educate the children.

Primary responsibilities include assisting the lead teacher with: care and supervision of children, lesson plan implementation, parent communication, cleanliness and organization of classroom. Starting hourly pay ranges based on experience and education. Pay increases are based on job performance. Opportunities for advancement are available as the company prefers to promote from within. Apply by sending an email to chris@special beginningsonline.com or in person at 10216 Pflumm Rd., Lenexa, KS 66215.

Prekindergarten teachers - St. Patrick Early Education Center is seeking full- or part-time lead teachers for our three-year-olds classrooms. Lead teachers should have an early childhood education degree or a CDA or a degree in a related field with an emphasis in early education. Prior experience in a classroom setting is preferred.

Our academic year runs from Aug. – May with summers off. Benefits are included for full-time employees. To apply, forward your resume by email to: stpatrickeec@arch kckcs.org, attention Michelle Mank, director, or send to St. Patrick EEC, 1080 N. 94th St., Kansas City, KS 66112.

SERVICES Professional window cleaning - Residential only. Insured and bonded. Over 40 years experience. Free estimates. Contact Gene Jackson at (913) 593-1495.

Machine quilting - by Jenell Noeth, Basehor. Also, quilts made to order. Call (913) 724-1837.

K-12 tutoring available - Tutor is degreed and has experience in the K-12 curriculum in various subjects and can help in test preps (ACT, SAT, GED, etc.) as well as French, Spanish, piano, guitar, voice and music theory. Sessions are fun and meaningful in context. Sessions are one-onone and family discount available. For more information, please call or text Kathleen at (913) 206-2151 or send an email to: klmamuric@yahoo.com.

Junkyard Dawg - Can do cleanup, debris removal and any other odd job you have. Call (913) 575-8522 for an estimate.

Complete plumbing and bath Master plumber for your entire home. Painting, tile install, bath remodeling. Onyx Collection Distributor.

Serving Johnson County for 20 years.

Member Ascension Parish; call Mike at (913) 488-4930.

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.

Agua Fina Irrigation and Landscape The one-stop location for your project!

Landscape and irrigation design, installation and maintenance.

Cleanup and grading services It’s time to repair your lawn. 20% discount on lawn renovations with mention of this ad.

Visit the website at: www.goaguafina.com Call (913) 530-7260 or (913) 530-5661 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.teresakiddlawyer. com. Please do not wait until life seems hopeless before getting good quality legal advice that may solve your financial stress.

Tree service - Pruning trees for optimal growth and beauty and removal of hazardous limbs or problem trees.

Free consultation and bid. Safe, insured, professional.

Cristofer Estrada, Green Solutions of KC, (913) 378-5872. www.GreenSolutionsKC.com.

Garage door and opener sales and service - 24-hour, 7-day-a-week service on all types of doors. Replace broken springs, cables, hinges, rollers, gate openers, entry and patio doors, and more. Over 32 years of experience.

Call (913) 227-4902.

HOME IMPROVEMENT Local handyman and lawn care - Water heaters, garbage disposals, toilets, faucets, painting, power washing,doors, storm doors, gutter cleaning, wood rot, mowing, carpet, roofing, etc. Member of Holy Angels Parish.

Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118.

The Drywall Doctor, Inc. - A unique solution to your drywall problems! We fix all types of ceiling and wall damage — from water stains and stress cracks to texture repairs and skim coating. We provide professional, timely repairs and leave the job site clean! Lead-certified and insured! Serving the metro since 1997. Call (913) 768-6655.

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 NELSON CREATIONS L.L.C. Home remodeling, design/build, kitchens, baths, all interior and exterior work. Family owned and operated; over 25 years experience. Licensed and insured; commercial and residential. Kirk and Diane Nelson.

(913) 927-5240; nelsport@everestkc.net Masonry work - Quality new or repair work. Brick, block and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; second-generation bricklayer. Member of St. Paul Parish, Olathe. Call (913) 829-4336.

Cleaning lady - Reasonable rates; references provided.

Call (913) 940-2959.

CLUTTER GETTING YOU DOWN? Organize, fix, assemble, install! “Kevin Of All Trades” your professional organizer and “HONEY-DO-LIST” specialist. Call today for a free consultation at (913) 271-5055. Insured. References.

Visit our website at: www.KOATINDUSTRIES.com.

Housecleaning - Old-fashioned cleaning, hand mopping, etc. A thorough and consistent job every time.

References from customers I’ve served for over 17 years.

Call Sharon at (816) 322-0006 (home) or (816) 801-0901 (mobile). Serving the 913 area code area.

Quilted Memories - Your Kansas City Longarm Shop - Nolting Longarm Machines, quilting supplies and machine quilting services. We specialize in memorial quilts - Custom designed memory quilts from your T-shirt collections, photos, baby clothes, college memorabilia, etc., neckties etc. For information or to schedule a free consultation, call (913) 649-2704. Visit the website at: www.quiltedmemoriesllc.com.

Water damage restoration - Framing, insulation, painting, sheet rock, mold treatment, and lead safe certified.

Fully insured. Serving Wyandotte and Johnson Counties for 25 years. Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144.

Larry Laney Construction Co. - Specializing in kitchen/ bathroom remodeling and home renovation. Finished carpentry, painting, drywall and tile. I’m an honest, hardworking, dependable, and very skilled, licensed contractor. Insured, with references. Call Larry at (913) 963-3434.

Helping Hand Handy Man - Home maintenance chores available by the hour. Special rate for senior and singleparent households. Electrical, painting, wood refinishing, deck repair, yard work, shelving and organizing. Most home problems and needs solved. Member of Prince of Peace, Olathe. Call Mark Coleman at (913) 526-4490.

Brick mason - Brick, stone, tile and flat work. 22 years of residential/commercial experience. FREE QUOTES - KC metro area. Small and large jobs accepted. Call Jim at (913) 485-4307. www.facebook.com/faganmasonry.

Detail construction and remodeling - We offer a full line of home remodeling services. Don’t move — remodel! Johnson County area. Call for a free quote. (913) 709-8401.

Get the job done right the first time Kansas City’s Premier Services Decks and fences Power washing, staining and preserving Call for a FREE estimate Brian (913) 952-5965, Holy Trinity parishioner Jim (913) 257-1729, Holy Spirit 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.

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 you’ll be glad you did.

Everything is guaranteed 100% (913) 461-4052 www.windowservicesoverlandpark.com drcconswindows@gmail.com Adept Home Improvements Where quality still counts!

Basement finishing, Kitchens and baths, Electrical and plumbing, Licensed and insured. (913) 599-7998 >> Classifieds continue on page 13

CALENDAR 13

AUGUST 14, 2015 | THELEAVEN.COM

August

A first-of-its-kind reunion invites all connected to three parishes 14-16 and their schools — Our Lady of Perpetual Help, St. Rose of Lima and Our Lady & St. Rose in Kansas City, Kansas — to come together on Aug. 14 16 at Davern Hall at Christ the King Parish, 53rd St. and Leavenworth Rd., Kansas City, Kansas. There will be a social event on Aug. 14, a carnival and evening banquet on Aug. 15, and a Mass and brunch on Aug. 16. To register, visit the website at: www.ourladyandsaintrose.org or call Barbara Bailey at the parish office at (913) 321-1958.

A memorial liturgy for deceased loved ones will be held Aug. 15 at 8 a.m. at Curé of Ars Parish, 9405 Mission Rd., Leawood. Following the Mass, the bereavement ministry will have its monthly support meeting in the Father Burak Room. Liz Luck will speak on ”Living Life After Death.” For more information, call (913) 649-2026.

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Christ’s Peace House of Prayer will host a weekend retreat on “Mary, Our Mother.” The retreat will look at Catholic teaching on the Blessed Virgin Mary. The retreat will begin on Aug. 15, the feast of Mary’s assumption, and end on Aug. 16. There

>> Continued from page 12

HOME IMPROVEMENT HARCO Exteriors LLC Your Kansas City fencing specialists Family owned and operated (913) 815-4817 www.harcoexteriorsllc.com House painting Interior and exterior; wall paper removal.

Power washing, fences, decks.

30 years experience. References. Reasonable rates.

Call Joe at (913) 620-5776.

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) 491-5837 or (913) 5791835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.

Swalms Organizing - Downsizing - Clean Out Service.

Reduce clutter - Any space organized. Shelving built on site. Items hauled for recycling and donations. 20 years exp, insured. Call Tillar: (913) 375-9115. WWW.SWALMS ORGANIZING.COM. Lawn/Landscaping - Mowing, mulch, dirt work, sod, tree trimming, landscape rock, gutter cleaning, and power washing. Mention this ad for special pricing. Call (816) 509-0224.

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

will be nine talks, eucharistic adoration, Mass at the local parish and time for private prayer, spiritual reading, discussion and walking. For more information, send an email to: info@christspeace.com or call (913) 773-8255.

St. John the Baptist, the Croatian parish on Strawberry Hill, 708 N. 4th St., Kansas City, Kansas, will host its annual festival on Aug. 15, starting after 4 p.m. Mass.

There will be games and prizes for all ages, lots of food and drink, with a traditional sarma dinner in the gym. Kid’s activities include face painting. A free outdoor dance will be held from 9 - 11 p.m. on the museum grounds next door. For more information, call (913) 371-0627.

Immaculate Conception Parish, St. Marys, will host its parish picnic and reunion on Aug. 16. A chicken dinner with all the trimmings will be served from 4 - 7 p.m.

The cost to attend is $8 for adults; $3 for children under the age of 12. There will be games and prizes, drawings and a silent auction. For more information, visit the website at: www.marytownyouth.com or call (785) 437-2408.

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The holy rosary rally in honor of Our Lady of Fatima will be held Aug. 16 from 3 - 4:15 p.m. at Holy Family Parish, 274 Orchard, Kansas City, Kansas. For driving

instructions or future dates for the Kansas City monthly holy rosary rallies, visit the website at: www.rosaryrallieskc.org.

Catholic Business Network will present Mario Rames-Reyes, J.D., Ph.D., as a speaker on Aug. 18 at 6:45 a.m. at Church of the Nativity, Leawood. An expert on Latin American history, he will speak on understanding Pope Francis and do a commentary on “Laudato Si’.” He is an adjunct instructor at Donnelly College and the Bishop Helmsing Institute and a professor at Kansas City Kansas Community College in philosophy and Latin American history. A breakfast buffet is available for $10. RSVP is required on the website at: www.catholic businessnetwork.net. For more information, contact Michael Shirley at (913) 5581678, or send an email to: mshirleykc@ gmail.com.

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A Mass with prayers for healing, sponsored by archdiocesan charismatic prayer groups, will be at 7:30 p.m. on Aug. 20, in the Father Burak Room at Curé of Ars Parish, 9405 Mission Rd., Leawood. Father Dennis Wait will preside. For more information, call (913) 649-2026.

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St. Columbkille Church, Blaine, will host its annual bazaar on Aug. 22, immediately following

Caregiver - Available to do private duty. Medical background. Looking to help clients stay engaged, and rekindle their enthusiasm for life. Will attend to medical issues. Call Pam at (913) 579-5276.

Christmas items for sale - Huge selection, quality Christmas items. Includes ceramic houses, pre-lit new 10-foot tree, train, Waterford crystal ornaments, etc.

Send an email to: mccbaehr@gmail.com.

Catholic caregiver - CNA home health care. CPR certified. Experienced in vital signs, personal care, 2-hour care. Years of experience. MO and KS certified. Call Mary at (816) 308-6259.

For sale - One burial space at Resurrection Cemetery, Lenexa. Included with the space for cremains are two concrete sealer urns, with opening and closing. Cost is $2,300. Call Miriam at (913) 908-2131.

Looking for high quality home care? - Whether you’re looking to introduce care for your family or simply looking to improve your current home care quality, we can help. Our unique approach to home care has earned us a 99% client satisfaction rating among the 1,000-plus families we have assisted. We are family-owned, with offices in Lenexa and Lawrence. Call Benefits of Home Senior Care, Lenexa: (913) 422-1591 or Lawrence: (785) 727-1816 or www.benefitsofhome.com.

For sale - At Resurrection Cemetery, two easements in mausoleum. Contact A. Kelly at (913) 649-9691.

For sale - Two plots, side by side, at Chapel Hill Garden of Valor. $4,200 or best offer. Retails at $5,390. Please call David Nichols at (816) 686-1131 or send an email to: susannichols811@yahoo.com.

Caregiver - 45 year old female. Lots of caregiving experience. Flexible hours. Excellent references. Please call Kara at (913) 909-6659.

Family home for sale - 1976 home in the established Knollwood neighborhood of Topeka. 4 BR, 3.5 BA. 4,228 square feet. Asking price is $295,000. Walking distance to Hayden High School and Most Pure Heart of Mary Grade School. It is the perfect setting for entertaining outside and inside, with lots of square feet for family and friends.

This home has been well maintained, as is documented in the whole house inspection that has already been completed and is on file. There are exceptional renovations: a new roof, open kitchen with granite countertops and newer appliances. The kitchen sits open to a warm and cozy hearth room with beautiful woodwork and built-in shelves. Every bedroom is spacious with ample square feet for furnishings. The master suite is a haven for pampering and preparing for the day. Tons of closet space and drawers for the extras. There is also a deck off the kitchen that overlooks an amazing backyard with in-ground pool, hot tub and flagstone decking. A home warranty is in place, and this home is ready for a family. Come see us; don’t miss the opportunity to have a perfect home for your family. For more information, call Stan Zimmerman at (785) 640-2223 or Brenda Zimmerman at (785) 224-5885.

Residential care for your loved one in my home - For those who need or want the extra TLC that we would be so willing to provide. If your loved one needs long-term care, 24-hour-care after a surgery, stroke, fall, heart attack, or just a place to stay while you take a much- needed break or vacation, please give us a call. We offer one-on-one, personal, 24-hour-care, homemade meals, tuck-in service, heat packs for those cool nights, massages, private room with balcony, laundry service, bathing and grooming. We believe in making everyone’s life as full as possible. A lot of time is spent enjoying the simple pleasures, such as socializing, dancing, enjoying the outdoors, crafting and baking. If you are looking for the special place for your loved one to spend the rest of their days in comfort and love, we are here to help. My home is equipped with an elevator and is handicap accessible. I am certified in dispensing medication, CPR/FA. References are available upon request. Send an email to: thshealth@yahoo.com or call (816) 746-1564 and ask for Patti.

FOR SALE Residential lifts - Buy/sell/trade. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. Recycled and new equipment.

Member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood.

Call Silver Cross KC at (913) 327-5557.

REAL ESTATE

WANTED TO BUY Wanted to buy - Antique/vintage jewelry, lighters, fountain pens, post card collections, paintings/prints, pottery, sterling, china dinnerware.

Renee Maderak, (913) 631-7179.

St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee

the 4 p.m. Mass. A roast beef and ham loaf dinner will be served from 5:15 - 7:30 p.m.

The cost to attend is: $9 for adults; $5 for children ages 5 - 12; 4 and under eat free.

Entertainment includes a bounce house, cakewalk, bingo, country store, quilt raffle, and other games. St. Columbkille is located 21 miles north of Wamego at the intersection of Hwy. 99 and Hwy. 16.

The Christian Widow and Widowers Organization will host an annual birthday party in the Formation Room at Most Pure Heart, 17th and Stone, Topeka, at 5 p.m. on Aug. 27. There is no cost to attend. For more information, call (785) 272-0055.

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Recording artist, Mike Mangione, will perform a concert at 7 p.m. on Aug. 27 at Sacred Heart Church, 2646 S. 34th St., Kansas City, Kansas. A free will offering will be taken. For more information please visit Mangione’s website at: http://mikemangione.com.

Christ the King Parish, 53rd and Leavenworth Rd., Kansas City, Kansas, will host its annual ice cream social on Aug. 29. There will be homemade Polish sausages, hot dogs and pulled pork sandwiches, a DJ, games, bingo and a povitica booth.

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Wanted to buy - 1950’s, 1960’s, 1970’s convertible wanted in running condition. Call (913) 593-7507 Wanted to buy - Lionel trains. Call (913) 485-6700.

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.

VACATION Great Colorado Getaway! - Completely furnished three- story condo, sleeps 10. 3 BR, Wi-Fi, all cooking facilities, satellite, deck with gorgeous views! Hunting, fishing, hiking, train rides through the mountains and much more! For rates and reservations, visit the website at: www.cucharavacationrentals.com, then Aspen Valley Lookout.

Branson getaway - Walk-in condo on Pointe Royale Golf Course. Sleeps six. Close to lakes and entertainment.

Fully furnished. Pool and hot tub available. No cleaning fee. Nightly rates. Wi-Fi available. Discounts available.

Call (913) 515-3044.

FOR RENT For rent - Spacious home near St. Thomas Aquinas High School. Large yard. 4 BR. Great neighborhood. $2,000 per month. Call (913) 271-8051.

MISCELLANEOUS Host families - Welcome an international student into your home by hosting a student attending St. Thomas Aquinas. Hosting is an exciting and rewarding experience. Please contact Jody Shelton Stephen for more information at: jodys@twinnpalms.com, or call (913) 220-8707.

BUYING A CLASSIFIED

Cost to advertise is: $18.50 for five lines or less; $1.50 each additional line; Email: julie@theleaven. com; Phone: (913) 647-0327

Preserve Your Family’s Wealth!

KEVIN L. PETRACEK, ATTORNEY JD, LL.M.-Taxation, CPA, CFP® Parman & Easterday

Estate Planning · Wills · Trusts · Probate · Elder Law (4th Degree K of C Member)

Call for a Free Initial Consultation 10740 Nall Avenue, Suite 160, Overland Park, KS 66211 (913) 385-9400 · www.parmanlaw.com Also Serving Topeka, Lawrence, Emporia and Neighboring Communities

14 COMMENTARY SCRIPTURE READINGS

THELEAVEN.COM | AUGUST 14, 2015

MARK MY WORDS

TWENTIETH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Aug. 16 TWENTIETH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Prv 9: 1-6 Ps 34: 2-7 Eph 5: 15-20 Jn 6: 51-58 Aug. 17 Monday Jgs 2: 11-19 Ps 106: 34-37, 39-40, 43ab, 44 Mt 19: 16-22 Aug. 18 Tuesday Jgs 6: 11-24a Ps 85: 9, 11-14 Mt 19: 23-30 Aug. 19 John Eudes, priest Jgs 9: 6-15 Ps 21: 2-7 Mt 20: 1-16 Aug. 20 Bernard, abbot, doctor of the church Jgs 11: 29-39a Ps 40: 5, 7-10 Mt 22: 1-14 Aug. 21 Pius X, pope Ru 1: 1, 3-6, 14b-16, 22 Ps 146: 5-10 Mt 22: 34-40 Aug. 22 The Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ru 2: 1-3, 8-11; 4: 13-17 Ps 128: 1b-5 Mt 23: 1-12 TWENTY-FIRST WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Aug. 23 TWENTY-FIRST SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Jos 24: 1-2a, 15-17, 18b Ps 34: 2-3, 16-21 Eph 5: 21-32 Jn 6: 60-69 Aug. 24 BARTHOLOMEW, APOSTLE Rv 21: 9b-14 Ps 145: 10-13, 17-18 Jn 1: 45-51 Aug. 25 Louis; Joseph Calasanz, priest 1 Thes 2: 1-8 Ps 139: 1-3, 4-6 Mt 23: 23-26 Aug. 26 Wednesday 1 Thes 2: 9-13 Ps 139: 7-12b Mt 23: 27-32 Aug. 27 Monica 1 Thes 3: 7-13 Ps 90: 3-5a, 12-14, 17 Mt 24: 42-51 Aug. 28 Augustine, bishop, doctor of the church 1 Thes 4: 1-8 Ps 97: 1-2b, 5-6, 10-12 Mt 25: 1-13 Aug. 29 The Passion of John the Baptist 1 Thes 4: 9-11 Ps 98: 1, 7-9 Mk 6: 17-29

W

ell, it happened again. I just can’t help myself.

Every time the back-toschool ads come out, I’m drawn like a magnet to pick some up — from as few as eight to as many as 64, depending on my mood. And once I buy them, I can’t wait to get home, open up the box and take a glorious sniff.

(I suspect that doing this in the store would definitely be frowned upon, not to mention embarrassing.) Immediately, I’m transported back to simpler days — a time of fresh beginnings and new adventures.

Right up there on my list of favorite smells, behind homemade bread and popcorn, is the aroma of new crayons. Like a fine wine, though, I’m picky. Not any brand will do. For me, the champagne of crayons is Crayola. It might just be because that’s the brand I grew up with, but Crayolas have the best scent.

For years, I hid my fascination with crayons, feeling that, as an adult, I should have moved beyond such childish things. Recently, however, coloring-fanatic grown-ups are having the courage to come forward and be counted.

We older folks who enjoy

Don’t be colorblind FATHER MARK GOLDASICH Father Mark Goldasich is the pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie. He has been editor of The Leaven since 1989. not only crayons, but also markers and colored pencils, are snapping up coloring books made specifically for us. An article in the July 12 Parade magazine captured this new mania.

Written by Hillari Dowdle, it extolled “the new joy of coloring” and encouraged adults to “cheer up, chill out and get your creative juices flowing with this summer’s hottest trend.” Coloring has a “magical, mood-lifting power” that “offers complete absorption.”

Psychologist Alice Domar expands on that idea in the article, saying that “coloring really requires you to be in the moment. And that makes it meditative. . . .

Coloring brings you back to a simpler time, it’s pleasurable, it’s a chance to sit and be mindful.”

And, according to Lacy

Mucklow, a licensed, clinical professional art therapist, colors “carry therapeutic qualities” and can “literally affect your mood.” For example, cool colors (blue, green, purple) have a calming effect; warm ones (red, orange, yellow) are “pepper-uppers”; bright colors energize; dark ones relax; and pastels and light tints “communicate softness and help soothe the soul.”

But can coloring enhance your spiritual life as well?

A couple of years ago, I recommended a book by Sybil MacBeth called “Praying in Color” (Boston: Paraclete Press, 2007; $16.95).

This colorful, illustrated, “how-to” book has been a source of rich inspiration, giving me a brand-new way to pray. According to the author, “Praying in Color is an active, meditative, playful prayer practice. It is both process and product. The process involves a re-entry into the childlike world of coloring and improvising.

The product is a colorful design or drawing that is a visual reminder of the time spent in prayer.”

MacBeth shows how praying in color can overcome some common obstacles that people have in prayer: folks who can’t even sit still for an Our Father;

people who fumble for the right words; those who are bored with “the same prayers you’ve said since kindergarten”; individuals who promise to pray for others, then forget; men who fall asleep when they relax to pray; and women who see their prayers as “more a list for Santa Claus than a love letter to God.” If you can relate to any of these situations, this book might be a picture-perfect method that can be used to pray with Scripture, with calendars, for discernment, for remembering, for our enemies, and even on the computer.

Let me reassure you that none of these activities using color — whether in coloring books or in prayer — demand any artistic skill.

And you won’t be graded on it, so color outside the lines if you feel like it.

If you want to start slowly or feel you have no artistic talent, try out an adult color-by-number book, like “Color Counts’ Travel the World.” Those with an iPhone or iPad can also check out the Colorfy app.

Now, if you’ve stuck with me this far and are considering hauling out those crayons or markers . . . well, let’s just say that you’ve finally shown your true colors!

IN THE BEGINNING

‘Wisdom’ in Old Testament foreshadows Christ in the New

W

hen native speakers of English learn another language, they frequently run into a number of obstacles.

One of those obstacles involves the gender of nouns. Many languages classify all nouns according to gender, while English does not. In linguistics, gender is a grammatical category, which may or may not correspond to the biological nature of the object described by the noun. For example, the German word for maiden — “Mädchen” —is neuter in gender. The French word for table is feminine, even though a table lacks any sexual organs.

In the Hebrew language, the word for wisdom is feminine. Interestingly enough, that also holds true for the word for wisdom in

POPE FRANCIS

FATHER MIKE STUBBS Father Mike Stubbs is the pastor of Holy Cross Parish in Overland Park and has a degree in Scripture from Harvard University. many other languages, such as Greek and Latin. The fact that so many languages agree on this point strikes me as significant. The feminine gender of the word easily suggests the personification of Wisdom as a woman, which we encounter in Sunday’s first reading, Prv 9:1-6.

The reading presents Wisdom as a resourceful and generous woman.

Catholics are more fortunate than the Old Testament prophets were because in the Eucharist they experience Jesus’ closeness and know that God is not far off on a lofty throne, Pope Francis told thousands of altar servers from across Europe. “In the Eucharist and in the other sacraments,” the pope said, “you experience

She is able to construct a house: “Wisdom has built her house.” She does not act alone, but has charge of “her maidens,” servants or daughters who assist her. She prepares a lavish banquet, to which she issues an open invitation for all: “Let whoever is simple turn in here. . . . Come, eat of my food, and drink of the wine I have mixed!”

The banquet includes meat, which did not figure in the everyday diet of the ordinary person. Meat was usually only served for feasts or special occasions. Similarly, wine cost too much for the ordinary person to drink every day. It was fairly strong and had to be mixed with water. This truly is a lavish banquet, supplied out of the generosity of Lady Wisdom.

Lady Wisdom occasional-

the intimate closeness of Jesus, the sweetness and power of his presence.” Pope Francis ended his three-week summer vacation at the evening meeting and prayer Aug. 4 with some 9,000 altar servers. The largest groups of young men and women came from Austria, Germany and Italy. The pope thanked the young people for braving Rome’s August heat, although they did find some relief before the pope arrived. They

ly appears in the later books of the Old Testament. They describe her as God’s helper in creating the universe (Wis 9:9) and as an attribute of God (Sir 1:1). These descriptions of wisdom, and the personification of Wisdom, prepared the way for the New Testament to present the concept of the Logos, the Word of God, who would be made incarnate in Jesus Christ.

Incidentally, the word “logos” is masculine in gender.

That naturally suggests, in place of the personification of Wisdom as a woman, the personification of the Logos, the Word, as a man.

But this is no mere metaphor. It actually happens in Jesus Christ: “And the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us” (Jn 1:14).

began gathering in St. Peter’s Square about three hours earlier when the sun was still at its strongest. To deal with the high summer temperatures in the square, the young people stood under showers of cooling water provided by the hoses of the Vatican fire department. The theme of the gathering was “Here I am! Send me” from the prophet Isaiah.

— CNS

8/15

16 LOCAL NEWS

THELEAVEN.COM | AUGUST 14, 2015

CITIZEN REGIE ‘It’s not that kind of America,’ new citizen tells folks back home

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

K

A N S A S CITY, Kan. — Father Reginald Saldanha’s Fourth of July was

better than yours.

His fireworks weren’t brighter or bigger. His burger wasn’t juicier. His beer wasn’t colder. His lawn chair wasn’t more comfortable.

Nevertheless, his Fourth of July was better. That’s because, six days later, he became a citizen of the United States of America.

“Becoming a citizen is like going through the RCIA to become a Catholic,” said Father Saldanha, pastor of St. Philip Neri Parish in Osawatomie, Sacred Heart Parish in Mound City, and Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in La Cygne.

“Those [converts] appreciate their faith sometimes more than the cradle Catholics,” he continued. “Those born here take for granted so many good things, wonderful things we have in America — rights, liberties and freedom.

“But when you come from a different culture and country, you really appreciate what you have here.”

Father Saldanha — everybody calls him Father Regie — was born in Mangalore, a port city on the western side of south India, with a population of 650,000.

“Mangalore is called ‘The Rome of the East,’” he said.

Although Catholics are only 1.5 percent of the India’s total population, the vigorous Catholic population of Mangalore is relatively large and produces thousands of vocations to the priesthood and religious life.

Father Regie, 49, came from just such a devout family. Of his family’s eight siblings, two became priests and one became a nun.

“I’ve always wanted to become a priest from my childhood, mainly because my parish priest was very influential, always asking children what they wanted to become — if they wanted to become a priest,” he said.

“Also, I went to the parish school, and the nuns always encouraged vocations to the priesthood and religious life.”

He began his seminary studies at age 16. He always thought he would serve the poor in India, but a bishop from Papua New Guinea (north of Australia) asked him to come to his diocese after he was ordained in 1997.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE MCSORLEY

Father Reginald Saldanha takes part in his citizenship ceremony at the Wyandotte County Court House on July 10. Father Regie, as he is called, was born in Mangalore, India.

He worked in the Diocese of Wabag for six years, and then decided to minister to the Aborigine of Australia.

However, some friends urged him to consider America.

Archbishop James P. Keleher was the first to respond to his inquiry.

Father Regie had a good feeling about Kansas. While he was in the seminary, one of the seminary benefactors was a priest from Junction City.

“He used to send pictures and write about Kansas, so I really liked the area with its greenery and farming,” said Father Regie.

“

I never get homesick [for India].

Even now when I do go [to India], after a couple of weeks I want to come back. I feel American homesick.”

But when he first arrived in 2005, America seemed . . . odd.

In his native India and in New Guinea, there were always people going about.

America, by contrast, looked like a scene from the “Left Behind” movie.

Father Regie “When I came here, it was around 9 p.m.,” said Father Regie. “I could not see even one person. I wanted to see what Americans looked like.

I saw vehicles driving around, buildings and trees — but where were the people?”

The weather was different, too. India has only two kinds of weather: Rain, rain, rain followed by hot, hot, hot.

“I never really cared for weather. But when I came here, everyone talks about the weather,” he said. “Everyone starts a conversation about the weather. I wondered, ‘Why do these people always talk about the weather? Don’t they have anything else to talk about?’”

It made sense when a friend clued him in about the volatility of Kansas weather — not to mention how much the farming communities rely on its cooperation for their crops.

Fall was interesting, too.

“In the fall and winter, there is the shedding of the trees,” said Father Regie. “I had never seen this. In tropical countries we always have foliage. It excited me how the trees shed, hibernate and come back to life in the spring. Spring is a most favorite time of year for me.”

He found other things to like, too: fast food, shopping, driving on beautiful roads, fishing and snow.

One thing that surprised him was the level of faith.

In India, he was told that the churches in Europe and America were empty, with only a few elderly people and no youths.

The day after he arrived, he was scheduled to celebrate a school Mass at Holy Trinity in Lenexa.

“I thought there would be just a few kids, but when I went into the church, I was shocked to see almost 1,000 kids come to church for Mass.

So I try to tell people [in India], it’s not that kind of America where I am. In America, the churches are filled with people.”

As the years passed, it became clearer to him that he would likely remain here until his death. He had become attached. So he decided to be incardinated into the archdiocese and become an American.

“I never get homesick [for India],” he continued. “Even now when I do go [to India], after a couple of weeks, I want to come back.

“I feel American homesick.”

This year, he knew he was a real American, even before he took the oath. That’s because he had the best Fourth of July ever — even better than yours.

“I celebrated by sitting in the parking lot in my lawn chair, eating a hamburger and drinking a beer, and watching fireworks,” he said. “And I wore a Bass Pro T-shirt with an American flag.”

Yep. That’s American.