09-30-11 Vol. 33 No. 9

WWW.THELEAVEN.COM | NEWSPAPER OF THE ARCHDIOCESE OF KANSAS CITY IN KANSAS | VOL. 33, NO. 9 SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

PEACE MESSAGE GOES SPIRAL St. Ann School plants pinwheels to remind community: ‘Blessed are the peacemakers’

St. Ann seventh-grader Raegan Coppinger (left) helps first-grader Rosemary Porto get her pinwheel securely in the ground.

Third-grader Nick Swaney (right) makes sure the row of pinwheels is perfectly aligned. About 450 pinwheels for peace were planted in front of St. Ann School on Sept. 21 following an all-school Mass.

P

RAIRIE VILLAGE — People who Art teacher Kathy Orel and principal Becky passed by St. Ann School here in late Akright got the idea spinning, and the project circled September were treated to a dazthrough the entire school. zling vision of “whirled Students at St. Ann are paired with peace.” “buddies” in other grade levels, and oldStory by Hundreds of bright, er students helped their younger buddies handcrafted pinwheels with their pinwheels.

JESSICA LANGDON spun in the breeze in front of the school Seventh-graders Clara Taylor and Photos by on Mission Road.

John Ryan created their own pinwheels SUSAN MCSPADDEN “It looked like a bunch of colors,” first. Once they were experts in designsaid first-grader Avery Guck. ing, cutting and constructing, they Students and faculty hope their helped assemble a pinwheel for Avery, “pinwheels for peace” will translate into a message their first-grade buddy. of world peace. The entire school helped plant this “It’s really fun,” said Avery. “First, you just decocolorful reminder of the need for unity, harmony and Turn to “WE” on page 16 serenity.

2 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

THE LEAVEN • SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS

T

Revisions will hopefully encourage greater reverence

his past week, I was with the priests of the archdiocese for our annual workshop/convocation at Conception Abbey in Missouri.

Last year’s workshop was devoted to the new English translation to the revised Roman Missal — the book that contains all of the prayers for the Eucharist. The workshop was to better inform our priests as to the rationale for the new English translation, to acquaint them with the changes, and to encourage them to take advantage of this moment in catechizing their parishioners — not just about the changes, but about the beauty and the meaning of the Eucharist.

As part of that catechesis, I have asked every parish to include monthly bulletin inserts produced by Liturgical Training Publications of Chicago that provide information about the changes, the reasons for the new English translation, and the meaning of the different parts of the Mass.

Michael Podrebarac, the consultant of our archdiocesan liturgy office, has given workshops all over the archdiocese on the revised Roman Missal and the new English translation. Consistent with the recommendation of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, I have given permission to parishes to begin now introducing the new texts and musical settings for the parts of the Mass that can be sung by the congregation.

The complete new English translation will be used in all of our parishes on the First Sunday of Advent, Nov. 27.

The reason for the new English translation of the Roman Missal is to provide a more accurate translation from the original Latin text. Translations by their nature will always be imperfect. But, with something as important as the words for the Eucharist, it is necessary that we strive to make our English as true as possible to the original.

One of the changes that will be most noticeable, because of its frequency in the Mass, is the response of the congregation to the celebrant’s greeting: “The Lord be with you.” The people will respond: “And with your Spirit.” This is clearly a more accurate translation. It corresponds with the response in other vernacular languages like Spanish, French and Italian. However, it also has profound theological meaning.

In this response, the congregation is actually reminding the celebrant of his ordination when the Holy Spirit was poured upon him to serve the church as an ordained minister. The congregation is not simply, in a perfunctory manner, returning the celebrant’s greeting, but unplanned pregnancy? decisions to make?

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Archbishop Naumann’s weekly calendar

Sept. 30 Mass and dinner with the Apostles of the Interior Life

The reason for the new English translation of the Roman Missal is to provide a more accurate translation from the original Latin text. Translations by their nature will always be imperfect. But, with something as important as the words for the Eucharist, it is necessary that we strive to make our English as true as possible to the original.

Oct. 1 10:30 Mass honoring Blessed John Paul II — Good Shepherd, Shawnee

actually exhorting the priest to summon the Spirit given to him in a special and unique way at his ordination to proclaim God’s word and to minister the Blessed Sacrament to the people of God. The revision of the Roman Missal and the new English translation actually affords us a golden opportunity to think more carefully about what we do and say at Mass. Often in the call to worship at the beginning of Mass, I will invite people to ponder the miracle in which we are participating.

Each Eucharist truly is a miracle of enormous proportions, making the events of Good Friday and Easter morning present to us. How can we not be excited about God speaking to us through the proclamation of the word of God? How can we not be overcome with awe and a sense of complete unworthiness while receiving holy Communion — conscious that Jesus is making himself present to us again through the sacrament of his body and blood?

Among the fruits that I hope will come from our reflection upon the beauty and importance of the Eucharist, prompted by the implementation of the new translation, is a greater participation and a greater reverence. By participation, I am not simply speaking about singing with more enthusiasm or praying the vocal prayers of the Mass with more fervor. Primarily, I am speaking about an interior participation that is more aware and in awe of the miracle of grace in which we are caught up.

I also hope that we will see more rev-

Priests’ Personnel meeting

”

Evening prayer for Catholic media Oct. 2 Mass and installation of Father Pat Sullivan — Frankfort Project Andrew — Topeka Oct. 3 Mass and blessing of new monuments — Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Kansas City, Kan. Confirmation — Sacred Heart in Sabetha, St. Augustine in Fidelity and St. James in Wetmore at Sabetha Oct. 4 Administrative Team meeting

Vespers and dinner with newer priests

Oct. 5 Feasibility Task Force meeting

erence in our churches. Our churches need to regain, in the time leading up to Mass, a reverential silence. Most of our churches have ample gathering spaces where parishioners can meet and greet each other. However, once we enter the church proper, where Jesus is uniquely present in the Eucharist reserved in the tabernacle, there should be a reverential silence, allowing people the opportunity for personal prayer.

Our churches before Mass should not be places of casual conversation with fellow parishioners.

Similarly, I hope that we can foster a deeper appreciation for the precious opportunity given to us after receiving the Lord in the Eucharist. The time immediately after Communion should be a time of thanksgiving for God’s many blessings, as well as a time when we entrust our personal cares and intentions to his merciful love.

Sometimes, I hear adults or youth say that they are “bored” at Mass.

Often this means they did not find the homily interesting or they did not care for the music. What it really means is that we have failed to catechize them well about the Eucharist. If one really understood what transpires at each and every Eucharist, then it would be

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LOAVES AND FISHES A multiplication of grace

Confirmation — St. Gregory in Marysville and St. Malachy in Beattie at Marysville Oct. 6 Conference call with the Religious Alliance Against Pornography

Oct. 6-7 Kansas Catholic Conference and province meeting — Wichita Oct. 7-8 Jesus Caritas bishops’ prayer group — Wichita Oct. 8 Gaudeamus dinner benefit for Catholic Education Foundation — Overland Park Oct. 9 Mass and installation of Father Michael Koller — Holy Trinity, Lenexa Project Andrew — Savior Pastoral Center, Kansas City, Kan.

Archbishop Keleher’s weekly calendar

Oct. 3-6 Teach class at Mundelein Seminary Oct. 8 “The Catholic Way” radio recording Oct. 9 Mass at federal prison — Leavenworth impossible to be bored.

At World Youth Day in Madrid, Spain, I attended the catechesis given

by Jason and Crystalina Evert. They gave youth a powerful testimony about the beauty and importance of the virtue of chastity. In Jason’s presentation, he talked about when he began regularly to participate in daily Mass. He quipped: “Daily Mass, you know, that is where people go who have nothing better to do — which is all of us!”

This is the truth I hope that everyone in the archdiocese knows or discovers in the coming weeks: There is absolutely nothing more important that we can do than encounter Jesus in the Eucharist.

Finally, Michael Scherschligt, the founder of Holy Family School of Faith, gives a free lecture on the first Wednesday of each month at Holy Spirit Parish in Overland Park. This year, these Wednesday lectures will provide a further reflection on the topic of my Leaven column from the preceding Friday. I encourage everyone in the archdiocese to attend Michael’s talk this coming Wed., Oct. 5, which will be devoted to a reflection on the Eucharist.

SECOND FRONT PAGE 3

By Laurie Ghigliotti Special to The Leaven

ATCHISON — Every few weeks, on a Saturday morning, 16-year-old Jake Hennigh and his father Dan spend some quality time together.

No, they don’t head out to a ball game, or settle in for a session of video games.

Instead, together, they deliver hot meals to Atchison shut-ins, courtesy of a program called Loaves and Fishes.

According to volunteer and St. Benedict’s Church parishioner Tresa Buessing, Loaves and Fishes was started by Father Ray Hartjen of Trinity Episcopal Church in Atchison to provide hot meals on Saturdays, typically for clients who receive Meals on Wheels during the week.

The project begun by Father Hartjen soon became a community effort, with several churches cooking and delivering on different weekends. The task of coordinating the effort has passed from church to church, with Atchison’s First Presbyterian Church overseeing the program now, Buessing said.

“Right now, there are eight Atchison churches involved,” she said. “I like the ecumenism of it all. It’s good for all of us.”

Buessing likens the community effort to families working together.

“Christians are like families,” she said.

Father Gerard Senecal, OSB, pastor of St. Benedict’s Church, agreed.

“It’s great that we can help in the same causes, aided by a variety of other churches,” he said.

St. Benedict’s Church covers the cost of the food for Buessing’s Loaves and Fishes group.

“The expense is modest,” said Father Gerard, “and the program helps some people who really need the support.”

Buessing’s team includes members of St. Benedict’s, St. Joseph and Sacred Heart parishes, with the Knights of Columbus doing most of the deliveries. Buessing’s group cooks, packages and delivers from the Project Concern kitchen. Up to 20 people are also served on-site.

As a Loaves and Fishes volunteer for 12 years, Buessing has seen a lot of changes.

“The group has evolved over the years,” said Buessing. “We have a core group that’s been together for three or four years now.”

About 60 meals are prepared each weekend. Buessing’s group always prepares the same meal for the weekends they’re assigned.

“We make a hamburger casserole,” said Buessing. “We also have ladies in the parish that bake brownies for us.

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Photo by Laurie Ghigliotti

Dan Hennigh (left), Jake Hennigh, Galen Pruett, and Judy and Jerome Walters prepare to deliver hot meals to shut-ins in Atchison through the Loaves and Fishes program.

“Everybody needs to deliver sometime to see the faces of the people you’re serving, or it just becomes a job. Seeing them makes the experience more meaningful.”

”

Tresa Buessing, Loaves and Fishes volunteer

The parish covers the cost of the food and Country Mart and Marigold’s [Bakery] give us their day-old bread.”

Buessing, her husband Larry, and their team begin working at 7:30 a.m. and finish up about 1 p.m.

Buessing encourages all the volunteers to take a turn delivering the meals.

“Everybody needs to deliver sometime to see the faces of the people you’re serving, or it just becomes a job,” she said. “Seeing them makes the experience more meaningful.”

“Another important thing about delivering is the personal contact with the person we’re delivering to,” Buessing said. “It reassures them that some-

one is checking on them.”

Dan Hennigh, a member of the Knights of Columbus, agreed that the people Loaves and Fishes serves are not just hungry for food. They crave human companionship, too.

“We may be the only people they talk to during the week,” he said. “So, we don’t just drop off meals and run off.”

Jake Hennigh likes helping, and he enjoys making his Saturday deliveries with his father.

“The people look so happy when they see me and it makes me feel really good,” Jake said.

The people Jake delivers meals to are not living in the best of circumstances, a fact that makes a big impression on the young man.

“There was this one lady, when I walked onto her front porch, it looked pretty bad,” he said, “but inside her house it was nice and clean.

“She had a little table, a chair, and a small TV. I didn’t see any other furniture.”

“It teared me up a little,” he added.

Knight of Columbus Rick Cordero of St. Joseph Parish has been delivering meals for Loaves and Fishes for about four or five years.

“I think it’s nice for the older people who can’t get out and around,” Cor-

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dero said. “When you live by yourself, you don’t like to do much cooking.

And, when you get older, you might not eat as well as you should.”

For some volunteers like the Hennighs, the effort is also a family affair.

Roy Ostertag is also a Knight and a Sacred Heart parishioner. He takes his granddaughters — Emilee, 16, and Lillee, 9 — along on his Loaves and Fishes deliveries.

“They do the running and I do the driving,” Ostertag said.

“Emilee was just a little girl when we started,” he added. “Emilee always liked to talk to the ladies [on the route].”

In the process of helping out, the girls enjoy time with their grandfather, as well as a meal with him and the other volunteers when the work is done.

In the end, more than the poor and elderly benefit from this modern take on the story of the loaves and fishes.

Volunteers are touched by the experience and continue their association with the program.

Buessing is impressed by the generosity of the people who keep coming back to help.

“I’m always surprised at people’s generosity,” she said. “I don’t think anyone ever turns us down!”

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.

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4 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

THE LEAVEN • SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

‘It’s a good thing’

Jesus Caritas groups bolster priests’ prayer lives

By Jessica Langdon

‘It’s very local’

Leaven staff

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — As pastors and associates departed in droves this week for the fall priests’ workshop at Conception Abbey in Conception, Mo., area Catholics were reminded of the need for priests to take time to recharge and renew — as well as to receive support in their ministry from each other.

But what do priests do between the two archdiocesan-wide priest gatherings each year?

Some, explained Father Mark Mertes, pastor of Christ the King, Blessed Sacrament and Our Lady & St. Rose parishes in Kansas City, Kan., belong to Jesus Caritas groups — small prayer and support groups for priests.

If your parish priest ever tells you he’s going to his prayer group, advises Father Mertes, there is only one appropriate response: ‘Please do!’”

“It’s a good thing,” he said simply.

And he should know.

Father Mertes was recently chosen for a second three-year term as the national responsible — or leader — of the U.S. Jesus Caritas region, part of the Jesus Caritas Fraternity of Priests.

The philosophy of the program is simple. Five to eight priests comprise a group, committing to meet on a regular basis. At their meetings (many meet monthly), the priests pray together, review their lives and encourage one another. Most are diocesan priests, although all are welcome.

Father Mertes has been part of a Jesus Caritas group for all of his 24 years in the priesthood.

“Once people get in Jesus Caritas, they generally stay in,” he said.

Likewise, once members attend a national assembly — like the one held in Kansas City, Kan., Aug. 1-5 — they tend to come back for the next one.

This summer brought together 40 priests from across the country at Savior Pastoral Center for the Jesus Caritas National Assembly. The assembly takes place once every three years, during which some business is conducted and elections are held.

But, true to its purpose, event organizers of the national assembly set a lot of time aside for fellowship and prayer.

Worldwide, Jesus Caritas has about 4,000 members, and there are roughly 1,200 in the United States.

In the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, there are seven groups with about 40 priests participating.

Any priest can start a Jesus Caritas group, and Father Mark Mertes encourages priests to look into joining a group or starting their own. More information, resources and links are available online at: www.jesuscaritas usa.org.

Blessed inspiration Orphaned as a child, Brother Charles de Foucauld lost his faith in his adolescence. At age 28, he rediscovered God, dedicating his life to him. He found his vocation to follow Jesus while living in Nazareth. He was ordained a priest at 41.

“I would like to be sufficiently good that people would say, ‘If such is the servant, what must the Master be like?’” Brother Charles once said.

Father Mertes was elected national responsible for the first time during the national gathering in Cleveland in 2008. This summer’s assembly resulted in his second term.

The role has allowed him to connect with priests not only in the United States, but around the world.

“It’s been a real blessing,” he said.

So were the days the group shared at Savior this summer. It was “profound” to experience prayer in the presence of so many longtime priests.

The gathering took them back, said Father Mertes, to the type of prayer they always expected to have as priests.

Everything — from the meditative prayer to the meals — was memorable.

“This group knows how to just be together and listen to one another,” he said. “The prayer times were probably the highlight for me.”

This year, some of the presentations focused on one of the vital ac-

tivities Jesus Caritas members undertake when they gather — a review of life.

Father Richard Warsnak, pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Emporia, gave a reflection on that very topic.

“He invited us to ‘bring food to the kitchen’ that is our spiritual life,” explained Father Mertes. “So often we try ‘to cook without food’ — that is, work without being based in prayer. A daily practice of attentive prayer will help us to hear God’s ‘tiny, whispering sound’ in our hearts.”

Jesus Caritas draws its spiritual inspiration from Brother Charles de Foucauld, who was born in 1858 in Strasbourg, France, and became known for his life of faithful simplicity.

Father Mertes’ own small Jesus Caritas group has been a vital part of his life.

It has helped him address the temptations he faces as a diocesan priest.

“One is to work instead of pray,” he said.

His group draws him to daily prayer, especially eucharistic adoration.

“And the second temptation is to kind of be a lone ranger,” he said. “[My Jesus Caritas group] reminds me and helps me know the blessing of being in fraternal relations with brother priests.”

The group also shifts the focus away from many of the blessings one might enjoy in suburban surroundings.

“Brother Charles inspires us,” he said, “to always remember: Are we looking out for the interests of the poor among us?”

Sister Veronica Marie Brost, SCL LEAVENWORTH — Sister Veronica Marie Brost, 106, died Aug. 30. She faithfully served the people of God as a Sister of Charity of Leavenworth for 79 years.

Born Ann Marie Brost Obituary on March 25, 1905, in Greenbush, Minn., she was one of nine children of Peter William and Mary Elizabeth Berres Sister Veronica Brost.

Marie Brost She said, “I was a tomboy. I hated housework and helped work outdoors as much as I could. My favorite job was herding the cows. Often I rode one of the work horses and took the cows several miles from home to a water hole and good grazing. While they ate, I’d lie on the grass, or sometimes on the back of the horse, with my elbows on the horse’s rump and my feet crossed on her neck, and read. I loved to read. When the sun began to sink in the west, I knew it was time to start home.”

Home was the first source of her spirituality. “Family prayer, morning and night, was the rule,” she said. Though Mass was only once a month, the family assembled every Sunday for the rosary and reading of the Gospel, and in the evening more spiritual reading. When the family moved to Nashua, Mont., and found no Catholic church there, they helped build one. In the meantime, a priest said Mass in their home. That a religious vocation might come from such a family might not be unexpected, but five religious vocations in the Brost family were extraordinary.

Following her sister Marie (Sister Mary Peter), Ann Marie and her sister Teresa (Sister Mary) entered the SCL community on Sept. 14, 1932, and made their profession of vows on June 17, 1934.

Because she had taught in public schools in Montana and had a teacher’s certificate before her entrance into the Sisters of Charity, Sister Veronica Marie was assigned to teach grades three and four in the Cathedral School in Leavenworth. She taught there the entire nine months of her postulancy.

After profession of vows on June 17, 1934, she was missioned as a teacher in elementary schools in Kansas, Montana and Wyoming. Through the years, she also served as principal and superior of the convents where she lived.

In 1991, Sister returned to the motherhouse and in January 2000 retired to Ross Hall.

Mount Calvary Cemetery, Topeka, to add Holy Family Columbarium TOPEKA — In response to the increasing popularity of cremation as a burial option, Catholic Cemeteries of Northeast Kansas has announced plans to add the first columbarium at Mt. Calvary Cemetery here.

“Approximately 33 percent of burials at Mt. Calvary are cremations,” said Robert W. Chenoweth, executive director of Catholic Cemeteries that manages the Topeka location. “By providing the beautiful, granite, outdoor columbarium, we can offer yet another burial option approved by the Catholic Church.”

The first phase of developing the site in the northwest section of the cemetery will feature a columbarium with 96 niches. The names of the deceased persons will be engraved on exterior

An artist’s rendering of the proposed Holy Family Columbarian at Mt. Calvary in Topeka. panels. Each end panel of the columbarium will feature a bas relief carving of the Holy Family, in whose name the columbarium will be dedicated. Crema-

tion benches, each of which will hold two sets of cremated remains, will also be available surrounding the columbarium.

Projected completion date for the Holy Family Columbarium is early 2012, with family service counselors currently making space arrangements.

Based on continued demand, Catholic Cemeteries has plans for expansion with additional columbaria in the same location.

“Looking ahead and prearranging end-of-life plans allow individuals and couples to express their wishes and make choices that suit their preferences,” Chenoweth said. “We encourage persons interested in cremation as a burial option to contact one of our family service counselors to discuss the new columbarium.”

For more information, call (785) 2720820 or send an email to: information@ cathcemks.org.

LOCAL NEWS 5 Sister Bernadette Havlik, OSB

CNS photo/Radu Sigheti, Reuters

Kenya’s Nobel Peace Prize laureate Wangari Maathai shows her award to a crowd in Nairobi in this 2004 file photo. Maathai, the first black African woman to win the peace prize, died Sept. 25 after a long struggle with cancer. She was 71.

Nobel laureate, Mount St. Scholastica grad, dies

By Dennis Sadowski Catholic News Service

WASHINGTON (CNS) — Wangari Maathai, a Catholic environmentalist and political leader who became the first black African woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts to empower women to work for environmental, economic and social justice, died Sept. 25 after a bout with cancer.

She was 71.

A graduate of Mount St. Scholastica College — now Benedictine College — in Atchison, with a degree in biology, Maathai became widely known and respected for her efforts on behalf of environmental sustainability through tree-planting campaigns that developed around the world.

Maathai’s efforts in founding the Green Belt Movement and on behalf of human rights in challenging former Kenyan dictator Daniel arap Moi led to her being awarded the 2004 Nobel Peace Prize.

In 1989, Benedictine College named Maathai — who was known as “Mary Jo” at the school — as a co-winner of its Offeramus Medal, established by Mount St. Scholastica in 1957 to recognize alumnae “who have served others significantly in the spirit of Christ.”

In a 2004 letter to the Benedictine Sisters at the college, Maathai said the Sisters “became more than my teachers. They became my friends, mothers and sisters.”

“They touched my life so profoundly and made it so much better then . . . and now,” she added. “They made the Mount my home and gave me the most wonderful four years, which have partly made me who I am and may ever become.”

Sister Thomasita Homan, a member of the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica, got to know Maathai in the mid-1980s while she

was director of alumnae affairs at the college. She maintained that friendship for more than two decades, even attending the Nobel Prize award ceremony in Oslo, Norway, in 2004.

“Everyone there recognized her goodness and strength and that’s what they were really affirming,” Sister Thomasita told Catholic News Service Sept. 26.

“To a person, she really affects you in a way that it’s not just a story,” Sister Thomasita said. “You’re going to be moved to the same kind of hope, the same kind of faith and same kind of courage.”

“That’s a part of the reason Wangari Maathai is so important to the world. She does not act on her own.

She acts in a way that you become one with the movement to whatever needs to be done to improve our world,” she added.

Stephen Minnis, Benedictine College president, recalled Maathai’s last visit to campus on Jan. 28, 2007.

“Her talk was on leadership, activism and the Benedictine spirit,” Minnis told CNS Sept. 26. “She really did credit the Sisters and the Benedictine way of life as being very influential on her life and the way she helped build community in Kenya.”

In 1971, Maathai became the first woman in East Africa to receive a doctoral degree, graduating from the University of Nairobi. She received a master’s degree from the University Pittsburgh in 1966 before returning to newly independent Kenya.

Maathai married in 1969 but divorced in the 1980s after her husband, a legislator, accused her of being “too educated, too strong, too successful, too stubborn and too hard to control.”

A biography on the Green Belt Movement website said Maathai was born in the village of Ihithe, near Nyeri in Kenya’s Central Highlands, April 1, 1940. As a young girl she was taught by Catholic missionary nuns

and graduated from Loreto Girls’ High School in 1959.

In the 1970s, Maathai became active in the National Council of Women of Kenya and began meeting with rural women, learning about the deteriorating environmental and social conditions affecting poor Kenyans.

Their concerns focused on a lack of firewood for cooking and heating and the scarcity of clean water, leading to a shortage of nutritious food, according to the biography.

Maathai suggested the women plant trees because the effort could provide wood for cooking, fodder for livestock, material for fencing, protection for watersheds and stability for soil, thus improving agriculture, the biography said. The suggestion marked the beginning to the Green Belt Movement, which has led to the planting of more than 47 million trees in Kenya.

The effort initially was met with resistance by the arap Moi government, which labeled the movement “subversive,” The New York Times reported. During one protest against the government, police beat Maathai unconscious.

In 2002, five years after an unsuccessful run for the country’s presidency, Maathai was elected a member of the Kenyan Parliament. She subsequently was appointed assistant minister for environment, natural resources and wildlife. She also traveled the world, discussing environmental sustainability and the dangers of climate change to the world’s most vulnerable people.

With Maathai’s assistance, the United Nations Environment Program adopted a worldwide tree planting campaign in 2006. More than 1 billion trees were planted within months, and the campaign has set a goal of planting 14 billion trees, the Green Belt Movement reported.

ATCHISON — Sister Bernadette (Mary Ernest) Havlik, 87, a Benedictine Sister of Mount St. Scholastica here, died Sept. 15 at the monastery.

Sister Bernadette was born Dec. 14, 1923, in Bison, Okla., to Frank J. and Anna Pribyl Havlik. She was the second youngest daughter in a family of five boys and four girls. She graduated from St. Joseph School in Bison and from Sacred Heart Academy (now Benet Academy) in Lisle, Ill. She entered Obituary the Mount community in 1944 and made monastic profession in August 1945.

Sister Bernadette earned a bachelor’s degree in biology, with minors in English and education, from Mount St. Scholastica College; a master’s in educational administration from St. Louis University, St. Louis; and did further study at the University of Detroit.

From 1945 to 1988 she taught in community schools in Missouri, Kansas, and Colorado, serving also as principal at Brookfield and Palmyra in Missouri, and at Westphalia, Blaine, Ottawa, and Hanover in Kansas.

Sister Bernadette was subprioress at Mount St. Scholastica from 1988-1999, and also served as a member of the community council and senate and as sacristan. She was a longtime member of the quilting team whose work was sought after at the community’s gift shop and annual Night of Dreams benefit auction.

Our Lady’s Montessori School to host ‘Re:Connect’ KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Our Lady’s Montessori School here, at 3020 S. 7th St., will host “Re:Connect” at 5:30 p.m. on Oct. 6 at The Green Roof, 13th and Main, Kansas City, Mo. Richard Louv, 2008 Audubon Medal recipient and best-selling author of “Last Child in the Woods,” will be the guest speaker. Tickets are $25 each and may be purchased in advance on the website at: www.ourladysmontessori.com/reconnect. html.

Correction Susie English, principal of John Paul II School in Overland Park, was mistakenly referred to as Susie England in the Sept.

23 article, “Gaudeamus to honor Catholic school pastors.” The Leaven regrets the error.

Boundless Joy set for Oct. 22 KANSAS CITY, Kan. — The Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women will host the annual Women’s Day of Boundless Joy this year, set for Oct. 22, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at Savior Pastoral Center here.

Speakers include Sister Doris Engeman, April and Tom Hoopes, and Estelle Boeger.

Cost is $40 for adults; $20 for women ages 17 and under. To register, go to the website at: www.archkck.org/accw, or send name, address, telephone, email and parish, along with a check to: Loretta Schrick, 17871 Stitz Road, Winchester KS 66097.

Make check payable to ACCW. Registering online does not include payment. All payments must be sent in.

You may combine payments into one check, but please indicate for whom you are sending payment.

6 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

THE LEAVEN • SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

Latin Mass community finds a new home

By Joe Bollig Leaven staff

WESTWOOD — Few things can get someone off a roof faster than a tornado warning.

Architect Dan Himmelberg was inspecting the tile roof of the former Westwood Lutheran Church when the sirens sounded on May 25, just three days after the devastating Joplin tornado.

He and the others with him — members of the St. Philippine Duchesne Latin Mass Community — scrambled off and hastily took refuge under some stairs in the basement.

That’s when they found a treasure: about 100 roof tiles left over when the Spanish mission-style church was originally built in 1947. Nobody knew they existed.

“A tile roof can last 100 years,” said Himmelberg, a member of Holy Cross Parish in Overland Park. He works for Xpress Ideas, an Overland Park-based architectural services company.

Those tiles will come in handy as the community transforms the closed church into their very own chapel. It doesn’t have a name yet, but it might be named after St. Rose Philippine Duchesne.

The St. Philippine community, established in the archdiocese in 1989, has been looking for a home of its own for some time. In recent years, they’ve worshipped at Blessed Sacrament Parish in Kansas City, Kan. Chaplains of the Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter have ministered to the community since 1995.

The parish, in addition to hosting the St. Philippine community, also hosts a large and growing Hispanic community.

The lack of space led to scheduling challenges and physical limitations, so the St. Philippine community, with the permis-

Leaven photos by Joe Bollig

Big changes are coming for the former Westwood Lutheran Church in Johnson County. The structure will be remodeled to become a chapel for the St. Philippine Duchesne Latin Mass Community. sion of Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, began looking for a new home.

“It has always been the goal of the Fraternity of St. Peter, in consultation with the archbishop, to acquire churches for the use of its chaplaincies,” said Father John J. Fongemie, FSSP, chaplain to the St. Philippine community.

The community had to wait until it matured and built up funds, he said.

Archbishop Naumann gave them the green light in fall 2009 to start looking for a church and to launch a capital campaign.

Eventually, the community discovered a small brick church located in Westwood, a tiny suburban enclave in the northeast corner of Johnson County, bordered by Roeland Park, Fairway,

Mission Woods and Kansas City, Kan. A small section borders Kansas City, Mo. The future Latin Mass community chapel, located at 5035 Rainbow (across Rainbow Boulevard from the Westwood Christian Church), was formerly the

Westwood Lutheran Church.

“It’s a good size for a small group to get their arms around, like a first home,” said Himmelberg. “It’s located in a great neighborhood. This is a rebirth of the church, and the neighbors are excited that [the property] will be maintained as a church.”

The St. Philippine community raised the $600,000 to buy the building, but it is owned by the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.

Although the church is structurally sound, it will need some repairs and remodeling, which will cost about $700,000, said Father Fongemie.

Because the Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter celebrates Mass in the Extraordinary Form, colloquially known as the Latin Mass, it requires a liturgical environment such as was commonly found in Catholic churches before the Second Vatican Council.

“The good news is that [the church] is fairly traditional in its styling,” said Father Fongemie. “They were fairly traditional-minded Lutherans.”

Repairs and renovations also need to be done to the rectory, which was built in 1951. It has two bedrooms and a basement that will be finished.

The church now seats about 210, but its capacity will increase with more seats in the expanded choir loft. The community is comprised of some 240 families.

The Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter has assigned two chaplains to the community, who will offer at least two Sunday Masses and possibly three.

Father Fongemie hopes he and a newly ordained assistant chaplain can move into the rectory within three weeks, but the community will continue to meet at Blessed Sacrament until the chapel is ready sometime in January 2012.

Marjorie (Arens) and Ralph Eilert, members of Christ the King Parish in Topeka, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary ANNIVERSARIES on Oct. 8.

The couple was married on Oct. 8, 1951, at St. John Church in Beloit. They are planning a celebration at their son’s home in Stilwell.

Their children and their spouses are: Joyce and Brian Jones, Axtell; Nancy Way, Topeka; Tony and Tammy Eilert, Topeka; Gregory Eilert (deceased); Dennis and Ginele Eilert, Puyallup, Wash.; and Andy and Stephanie Eilert, Stilwell. They also have nine grandchildren and one greatgrandchild.

Carolyn (Leavitt) and John Martin, members of Holy Family Parish, Eudora, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept. 30. The couple was married on Sept. 30, 1961, at Sacred Heart Church in Tonganoxie. Their children and their spouses are: Julie Thompson; Joan and Tim Mabry; and Jill and Chris King. They also have four grandchildren.

Jerome and Lorraine Gerard, members of St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Oct. 7. The couple was married at St. Peter Church in Fort Wayne, Ind. Their children and their spouses are: Audrey and James Samek, Louisburg; Cynthia Gerard, Shawnee; Stephanie and David Romankow, Gillette, N.J.; and Jennifer and Bruno Gomes, Allentown, Pa. They also have five grandchildren.

Ruth (Riemann) and Roger Roe, members of St. Patrick Parish in Osage City, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept. 24. The couple was married on Sept.

30, 1961, at St. Mary Church in Densmore.

Their children and their spouses are: Doug and Nancy Roe, Little Rock, Ark.; Mark and Stacie Roe, Columbus, Neb.; and Greg and Aileen Roe, Olathe. They also have six grandchildren. The couple’s children and families had a special weekend and dinner to celebrate in Olathe.

Barney and Nadine Paulsen, members of St. Paul Parish, Olathe, celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on Sept. 24 with a family dinner.

The couple was married at the old St. Paul Church on Sept. 28, 1946. Their children and their spouses are: Dan and Judy Paulsen; Tim Paulsen (deceased); Cindy and Ed Steele; Debby and Dave Beard; and Sherry and Rob Wagner. They also have eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Peter and Ethel (McNiel) Belske, members of St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kan., celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on Sept. 29. The couple was married on Sept. 29, 1951, at Sts. Cyril and Methodius Church in Kansas City, Kan. Their children and their spouses are: Mark Belske (deceased); Deborah and Todd Gray; Gary and Susan Belske; Douglas Belske (deceased); Richard and Dawn Belske; and Susan and Herman Knipp. They also have seven grandchildren and one greatgranddaughter.

ANNIVERSARY POLICY: The Leaven only prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th anniversary notices. Announcements are due by 5 p.m. eight days (Thursday) before the desired publication date.

LOCAL NEWS 7 University of Saint Mary works to SWIPE out hunger LEAVENWORTH — The University of Saint Mary here will participate next month in SWIPE — a statewide food packaging event to combat hunger, sponsored by the Kansas-based not-for-profit Numana. USM’s SWIPE activity is set for 1-4 p.m. on Oct. 15 in McGilley Field House, where dozens of volunteers will work to package 20,000 meals for shipment to hungry families in Haiti.

SWIPE is timed to coincide with U.N. World Food Day on Oct. 16. Statewide, 16 colleges, universities, and junior colleges are taking part in the event.

At USM, volunteers from the Saint Mary student body and the larger Leavenworth-area community will act as an assembly line, packaging rice, beans, and other foodstuffs into parcels that can sustain a family of six for up to three days.

The meal packages will then be picked up by Numana for eventual shipment to Haiti.

USM will also hold a canned food drive in tandem with the SWIPE event to benefit local anti-hunger efforts.

The canned food drive will begin Oct. 10, and donations will be accepted through the SWIPE event.

Learn more on the website at: www. swipeouthunger.com or www.stmary. edu/SWIPE.

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THE NETWORK

underway, Morgan instructs the audience about taking advantage of the brief “face time” with employers that follows every panel discussion.

“This is not a job fair,” he cautions the job seekers in attendance. “This is not hand-them-a-resume. . . . It’s meet ’em and greet ’em, and maybe exchange cards.”

In his talk to the audience, Keith Weidenkeller, chief people officer for AMC, goes a long way toward reinforcing what Morgan and other CCR facilitators have been preaching: a solid resume can be nice, but solid networking and people skills can be a whole lot nicer.

“At AMC, we hire for attitude and train for skills,” he said. “It really doesn’t matter to us if you have the perfect skill set. . . . What we’re looking for is the right mindset, the right enthusiasm.”

“We’re looking for people who want to advance. We’re not focused on how many years you worked here or how many years you worked there,” he added.

Kent Barthol, with the Kansas City Business Journal, encouraged the job seekers to pull their job hunts away from the coffee shops and home offices.

“You have to get out from behind the computer,” he said. “Eighty percent of jobs are found through networking.”

Employers seem to appreciate the services CCR offers almost as much as job seekers.

“Taking in resumes can be like trying to drink from a fire hose,” Weidenkeller said. “Meeting with a group like this can be a great way to tap into a market.”

Bob Roper, who works in human resources for Ferrellgas, seconded that.

“When open positions often have hundreds of applicants, this personal meeting is invaluable for both sides,” he noted.

“After serving as a panelist last fall, I was contacted by over a dozen job seekers,” he said.

“I forwarded their resumes to my local contacts, answered questions and offered advice, and have been praying for them ever since,” Roper added, noting that he knows of at least one job seeker who was hired by his company.

“The process does work,” he concluded.

Catholic Career Roundtable offers job seekers a chance to network with employers

S

STORY AND PHOTOS BY JOHN SHULTZ HAWNEE — Downsized. Rightsized. Laid off. Obsolete. Unneeded. A luxury in the current economic climate. Outsourced.

Consolidated. Let go. Fired.

Maybe you’re in transition. Maybe you’re starting a new job/career/ position/city. Odds are that over the past few years you — or someone you know well — has been there, is there, or is fearful of what may be coming.

The Catholic Career Roundtable was started for someone like you.

“The job search climate is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced,” said Dave McClain, one of the facilitators of the local, multi-parish job club.

“The old methods of sending out hundreds of resumes and getting five good job offers back — they don’t work anymore.”

McClain, a parishioner of Holy Cross Church in Overland Park, would know. He isn’t just a facilitator. He considers himself a CCR success story.

McClain was downsized Jan. 3, right into the teeth of a remarkably bad job market. He had known for a few months that a layoff was on the horizon. It took him until May to find a new job.

Four months after the Overland Park resident’s good fortune, unemployment still sits at over nine percent.

Standing out in a crowded job-seeking market is more important than ever.

And the preferred methods espoused by the CCR just might be the best approach, McClain said.

“It’s all about talking to people, networking,” he said. “I was reaching out to everyone I knew.”

Phillip Morgan, a founder and continued driving force behind CCR, stresses the importance of the “who you know” approach. Currently meeting weekly at Good Shepherd Parish in Shawnee, CCR offers regular guidance sessions on the on the nuts and bolts of the job hunt.

But the real meat of the program is the monthly roundtables where job hunters meet with a panel of employers.

“We tell people it’s all about building relationships,” said Morgan, who belongs to Queen of the Holy Rosary Church in Overland Park.

In his talk to the audience at the Catholic Career Roundtable, Keith Weidenkeller, chief people officer for AMC, said a solid resume can be nice, but solid networking and people skills are a whole lot nicer.

GET INVOLVED:

Contact CCR at (816) 582-1809 or visit the group’s website at: www. catholiccareerroundtable.com “Finding a job is 30 percent ‘Are you qualified?’ and 70 percent ‘Do you fit in?’ . . . We tell people the resume is important, the business cards are important, but that’s only 30 percent.”

The Catholic Career Roundtable helps fill in the rest, said Morgan.

“We bring employers in, we bring job seekers in, and we help to start that relationship,” he added.

‘We’re a resource’ Morgan knows a thing or two about job hunting. His own personal economic security took a serious hit with the collapse of telecom giant Worldcom in 2002. He’s tried his hand at several positions and with several start-ups since then, and has been actively seeking work since January.

The CCR occupies a decent amount of his — and other facilitators’ — time.

CCR is a two-and-a-half-year-old venture, launched after the parish leadership at St. Ann in Prairie Village read about the success of the job club at Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe.

“Other parishes started catching on to the idea, because they all saw the need,” said Morgan, who was invited by then-pastor Msgr. Vince Krische and St. Ann parishioner John Caton to start work on a new job club. After all, if an Amish community can band together and raise a barn for a neighbor in need, Morgan wondered, why can’t a Catholic community work together to find their neighbors jobs?

Morgan said that the new club’s leaders wanted to get away from services already offered by many other career counseling outlets and job clubs in town.

So the CCR evolved, in simple terms, into an agent of both employer and job seeker, a go-between that helped connect those needing jobs with those looking to hire.

“We’re about jobs,” said Rick Alvarez, a CCR facilitator who is also from Queen of the Holy Rosary.

Figuring that there was strength in joining forces, CCR quickly grew into a cooperative effort of multiple parishes, including Holy Cross, St. Ann, Good Shepherd, Queen of the Holy Rosary, St. Agnes in Roeland Park, St. Pius X in Mission, and St. Michael the Archangel in Leawood. Participation isn’t limited to members of those parishes. And, of course, the group is open to all, not just Catholics.

Though the church basement job club is fairly ubiquitous in this day and age, a service like CCR is not.

CCR has weekly sessions that focus on the keys of self-promotion. These are the meetings where questions about resumes are welcome, where talk may turn to cover letters. Partici-

pants are encouraged to talk about their progress.

But the real identity of the group is the monthly namesake roundtables that routinely draw a crowd of 50, where potential employers — hiring managers, business owners — come in to sell their companies and answer questions.

And, most importantly, they come to talk about available jobs — lots of jobs, in some cases — as some panelists have come with news of over 100 openings.

Employers who’ve made an appearance are a veritable who’s who of local companies, including AMC Entertainment, Black & Veatch, Burns & McDonnell, Cerner, UMB Bank, local hospitals and municipalities, and other companies, large and small.

“We don’t just emphasize the job seeker,” said Alvarez. “We’re also trying to help the employers.”

This isn’t a resume review. (In fact, attendees who’ve attempted to use it as such may face some gentle correction.) It’s a networking event meant to benefit both employer and potential employee.

“We promote it as a resource — free to the job seeker and free to the employer,” Morgan said. “What we’re trying to do is educate the business owner.”

“We’re like a placement agency with no fees,” he continued. “We’re not a group in need. We’re a resource.”

For the job seekers, the networking can sometimes provide that allimportant proverbial foot in the door.

“Maybe you apply online. Then what you need is to know someone inside, someone who can move your

Mary Spencer (left) of Independence, and Joyce Tebbe Troyer — a professional looking to re-enter the workforce — chat after a CCR meeting. Spencer was recently laid off by the Kansas City, Mo., School District, where she worked in public relations.

Phillip Morgan, a founder and driving force behind CCR, stresses the importance of building relationships in the job hunting process.

resume from the stack of 600 to the stack of 20,” said Morgan.

Judy Bond, a CCR facilitator with St. Pius X, adds, “The idea is for the job seeker to be able to send an email, make a phone call, and say to the employer, ‘Hey, I met you at the roundtable.’”

And for some, it’s a very successful resource at that.

‘The process works’ Amber Stanger is a CCR success story.

Stanger, a freelance editor, reached a point where she personally needed more stable and regular income.

“It’s been a while since I’ve gone through a formal job search,” the Shawnee resident and Good Shepherd parishioner said. “The job club was very helpful for me because the job hunt process has changed quite a

‘A ministry’ bit since I was in the formal job hunt mode. It’s important to hear the different processes people are using now to get their feet in the door and find positions and set themselves apart.

“At the roundtable, I learned a lot about the ‘people end’ of things,” she said, adding that she landed an editorial position over the summer.

Stanger is now also a facilitator with CCR, saying that she wanted to help out others who are going through the same process she did.

“There are just so many people needing work, and it can be a very lonely, daunting place to be,” she said.

“CCR is nice because you can get a real employer perspective.”

Mary Spencer of Independence is hoping to duplicate Stanger’s success.

On a Saturday in late August, Spencer was at Good Shepherd for CCR’s main monthly roundtable. Just weeks earlier, she was laid off by the Kansas City, Mo., School District, where she worked in public relations.

“It’s challenging,” she said. “But here, there’s always a really positive message. I’ve gotten a lot of really positive networking leads that I’m looking into. It’s good to know that networking is the way to go.”

Joyce Tebbe Troyer — a professional looking to re-enter the workforce, not unlike Stanger — echoed Spencer’s sentiment.

“It’s good to get out and network with people,” she said. “I wish there were even more panelists.”

As the August panel is about to get

CCR organizers would like to see their efforts continue to grow. They’ve fielded calls from several churches — and denominations — in the metro area, and even received a handful of calls from churches in other states, asking if they planned on branching out.

Naturally, the founders and facilitators hope others try to duplicate their models and efforts.

Anything to get people in need working.

“We look at this as a ministry,” Alvarez said.

Morgan, too, stresses the spiritual aspect of CCR, noting that the group begins and ends each meeting with a prayer.

“For some people, church is from 9 to 10 on Sunday mornings,” he said.

“Church is 24/7. And that’s what this job club is.”

10 NATION

THE LEAVEN • SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

Dolores Hope, supporter of Catholic causes, dies at age 102 LOS ANGELES (CNS) — Dolores Hope, a lifelong Catholic who was the widow of comedian Bob Hope and an entertainer in her own right, died Sept. 19 at age 102 at her home in Toluca Lake outside of Los Angeles. A family spokesman said she died of natural causes. “Dolores Hope was a Catholic of deep and abiding faith,” Los Angeles Archbishop Jose H. Gomez said in a statement. “Her deep life in Christ was the spring board for her charitable giving.

Both the entertainment world and the church have lost a woman of profound faith, gifted musical talent, and dedication to the betterment of peoples worldwide.” With her husband, she supported numerous Catholic causes over the years and continued to do so after his death in 2003. Hope and her husband were longtime members of St. Charles Borromeo Parish in North Hollywood. But it wasn’t until 1996 that Bob Hope officially became a member of the Catholic Church.

She and Bob had been married 69 years when he died July 27, 2003. Funeral services for Dolores Hope would be private, followed by burial next to her husband at the Bob Hope Memorial Garden in the San Fernando Mission in Mission Hills.

Bishop Finn testifies before grand jury on abuse response KANSAS CITY, Mo (CNS) — Bishop Robert W. Finn, who heads the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph, testified before a Jackson County grand jury as part of an investigation into the diocese’s response to child abuse charges against a diocesan priest. “We’re doing the best we can to cooperate with law enforcement,” the bishop told reporters after testifying Sept.

16 in the case of Father Shawn Ratigan, a Catholic priest charged with child pornography offenses in Clay County and in U.S. District Court. According to The Kansas City Star, others who have testified include diocesan spokeswoman Rebecca Summers and a Kansas City police captain who was consulted by diocesan officials and is a member of the diocese’s Independent Review Board, which reviews allegations against priests and makes recommendations to the bishop. In early September, an independent report commissioned by the diocese to examine its policies and procedures on assessing child sexual abuse allegations found “shortcomings, inaction and confusing procedures.” The report also said that “diocesan leaders failed to follow their own policies and procedures for responding to reports” relating to abuse claims.

THE LEAVEN • SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

Pope to renew ‘spirit of Assisi’ with leaders

Priests urged to preach about poverty, job loss WASHINGTON (CNS) — The president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops is urging priests across the country to preach about “the terrible toll the current economic turmoil is taking on families and communities.”

In a letter to his fellow bishops, Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan of New York said he was writing at the recommendation of the Administrative Committee, which directs the work of the USCCB between general assemblies.

“I hope we can use our opportunities as pastors, teachers and leaders to focus public attention and priority on the scandal of so much poverty and so many without work in our society,” Archbishop Dolan said.

“Widespread unemployment, underemployment and pervasive poverty are diminishing human lives, undermining human dignity and hurting children and families,” he said.

The archbishop pointed out that the U.S. Census Bureau had released statistics during the Sept. 13-14 Administrative Committee meeting showing that 46 million people, including 16 million children, were living in poverty in the United States in 2010.

“These numbers bring home to us the human costs and moral consequences of a broken economy that cannot fully utilize the talents, energy and work of all our people,” he said. “The common good will not advance; economic security will not be achieved; and individual initiative will be weakened when so many live without the dignity of work and bear the crushing burden of poverty.”

He said African-Americans and Hispanics “live with unemployment and poverty at far higher rates than others” and immigrant workers were “especially vulnerable to exploitation and unfair treatment,” in contradiction to “our national pledge of ‘liberty and justice for all’” and “the consistent teaching of our church.”

Archbishop Dolan said “the best way out of poverty is to work at a living wage.”

CNS photo/Nigel Roddis, Reuters

CNS photo/courtesy Catholic Extension

DOMINICAN SISTER WINS LUMEN CHRISTI AWARD — Dominican Sister Gabriella Williams and Father Jack Wall, president of Catholic Extension, talk during their visit to the Duroville mobile home park in California. Sister Gabi, as she is known, is the 2011 winner of Catholic Extension’s Lumen Christi Award. The award is conferred annually by Catholic Extension to recognize a U.S. Catholic’s lifelong ministerial efforts in one of the nation’s mission dioceses.

Advocacy for migrants part of God’s plan, says Dominican nun

By Samuel Job

Catholic News Service WASHINGTON (CNS) — Dominican Sister Gabriella Williams, this year’s winner of Catholic Extension’s Lumen Christi Award, sees her work with migrants and other immigrant workers in southern California as fulfilling part of God’s plan of love for all of humanity.

“We are all God’s people, brothers and sisters. I support whoever I can because we are part of a big family and all that we do must be centered on God. God is love and I try to live this fact by my example,” she said in an interview with Catholic News Service.

“I am just a little part in a big puzzle and when we all live as God wants us to, then his plan of love can become a reality,” she added.

This marks the 34th year the award has been given to recognize the achievements of individuals who have sought to be like Christ in serving the poorest in their under-resourced dioceses.

Sister Gabi, as she is known, received the award Sept. 21 at a reception following a special Mass at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Indio, Calif.

The Catholic Church Extension Society, based in Chicago, supports various minis-

tries in the nation’s 86 mission dioceses, including evangelization and religious education; vocations and seminary education; church construction, repair and furnishings; and emergency relief needs.

Sister Gabi works with migrant and immigrant workers in the “lower desert” in the Diocese of San Bernardino, Calif.

As the Lumen Christi winner, she received a grant of $25,000 for her ministry and the diocese also receives $25,000. She was nominated for the award by Bishop Gerald R. Barnes of San Bernardino, who was the main celebrant of the Mass in Indio.

In 2003, the bishop asked Sister Gabi to minister to “the poorest of the poor” in the two-county diocese that covers nearly 27,300 square miles.

She came to her current ministry with the experience of living in harsh conditions — from ministering to the poor deep in the South American jungle near the Argentine border, but as she put it, she “has not experienced such poverty as this,” referring to the area she serves.

Sister Gabi said the workers’ situation is made even more difficult by the downturn in the U.S. economy, forcing some to get extra jobs that take them away from their families for several weeks up to a couple of months a year.

MONK PICKS APPLES AT ENGLISH ABBEY — Brother Columba Moujing, a Benedictine monk from Malaysia, picks apples at Ampleforth Abbey in Ampleforth, England, Sept 21. The orchard has 2,500 apple trees from which 25,000 liters of cider a year is produced and sold in local outlets to help finance the abbey. Ampleforth Abbey is the largest Benedictine community in England.

Pope celebrates Mass in Berlin’s Olympic Stadium on Sept. 22

By John Thavis

Catholic News Service BERLIN (CNS) — Pope Benedict XVI celebrated Mass in Berlin’s Olympic Stadium and appealed for a better understanding of the church, one that goes beyond current controversies and the failings of its members.

The evening liturgy Sept. 22 was the religious high point of the pope’s busy first day in the German capital, where he also met with government leaders, Jewish representatives and addressed the parliament.

About 70,000 Catholics gave the 84-year-old pontiff a rousing welcome when he rode in a popemobile through the stadium, which was built by the Nazi regime to host the 1936 Olympic Games.

The pope paused to kiss several babies as young people waved scarves imprinted with the theme of the papal visit, “Where there is God, there is a future.”

In recent years, the church in Germany has experienced a consistent drop in religious practice, including Mass attendance. Internal debates have simmered over such issues as priestly celibacy, and recent revelations of clerical sex abuse have drawn widespread criticism from other sectors of society.

In his homily, the pope said part of the problem was that people mistakenly see

only the outward form of the church and consider it merely as another organization in a democratic society. He asked for a broader understanding of the church as a communion of life with Christ.

He said people need to realize that although the church contains some bad members, “if only these negative aspects are taken into account, then the great and deep mystery of the church is no longer seen.” When that happens, he said, the church is no longer a source of joy.

The pope said that when the church goes through troubled times, its members should take comfort and strength from their closeness to Christ. This sense of “abiding in Christ” is especially needed in “our era of restlessness and lack of commitment, when so many people lose their way . . . [and] when loving fidelity in marriage and friendship has become so fragile,” he said.

Altar girls were prominent in the procession at the start of the papal Mass, carrying the cross and candles as the procession wound up a staircase to an altar platform high above the stadium ground level.

After making the rounds in the popemobile, the pope was greeted by Berlin’s mayor, who gave him a model of the Brandenburg Gate, an emblem of the once-divided city.

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MUNICH (CNS) — St. Francis of Assisi appeals to believers and nonbelievers alike because they long for a world where people see each other as brothers and sisters and where they recognize and respect creation as a gift to all, said the superior of the Franciscan convent in Assisi.

Conventual Franciscan Father Giuseppe Piemontese, custodian of the Sacred Convent of St. Francis, was one of eight religious leaders who spoke about “The Spirit of Assisi” during an interreligious meeting Sept. 11-13 in Munich. The meeting was sponsored by the Community of Sant’Egidio, a Romebased lay movement.

To mark the 25th anniversary of Blessed John Paul II’s gathering with religious leaders in Assisi, Pope Benedict XVI has convoked a new gathering in the Italian town Oct. 27.

Father Piemontese said the encounter will underline how important Blessed John Paul’s gathering was for promoting dialogue and collaboration among religions, but it also will be a “reminder of what still remains to be done” to ensure true collaboration, respect and mutual support among peoples.

Holding the gathering in Assisi makes sense to people because St. Francis “incarnated those high aspects of humanity, simplicity, humility” that enable people to recognize each other as brothers and sisters and to see all of creation as the work of the same hands that made them, he said.

Syrian Orthodox Metropolitan Gregorios Yohanna Ibrahim of Aleppo, Syria, said marking the anniversary of the 1986 Assisi meeting “challenges us to reflect on these last 25 years. They were brimming with fruitful experiences” and helped religious leaders “strengthen their faith and enrich their enthusiasm and enhance their collective vision.”

The Assisi gatherings, he said, are a reminder that “supplication to the creator” is something that unites all faiths.

“We are all exhausted by the needless and endless wars around us. If the aim of our prayers is peace, then it is the loftiest of goals that we are aiming for,” he said.

WORLD

11

Pope meets astronauts from Endeavour, space station VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Benedict XVI, who spoke to a group of astronauts when they were in outer space, had a close encounter with them back on Earth.

The pope welcomed crew members from the International Space Station and the space shuttle Endeavour to the papal villa in Castel Gandolfo Sept. 19. The crew members, who included two Italians, are on a speaking tour of Italy. During their visit with the pope, the astronauts gave back to him a silver medallion that he had given them to carry to the space station orbiting the earth. Pope Benedict had spoken to the astronauts May 21 during a video hookup with the space station.

Roberto Vittori, an Italian member of the Endeavour team, had let the medallion float weightless in front of the screen for the pope to see. The medallion bore an incision duplicating the scene of the creation of man from Michelangelo’s famous fresco in the Sistine Chapel. The nine astronauts who met the pope also gave him an atlas of the universe and a framed memento to hang on the wall containing a Vatican flag, the NASA logo and a photograph of the space shuttle.

Chinese priests’ lifestyles make them vulnerable to disease BEIJING (CNS) — Unhealthy lifestyles make mainland clergy vulnerable to noncommunicable diseases, which a U.N. meeting determined to be the leading health threat for Chinese people, said a doctor-priest. The health of the clergy and religious in China has become a source of concern since the deaths of a young bishop and bishop candidate, both in their 40s, earlier this year, reported the Asian church news agency UCA News. The news agency quoted a priest identified only as Father Joseph, a doctor in northern China, as saying that priests do not get enough exercise. “Some priests have little sense of evangelization. After the daily Mass, they go straight to their computers,” he said.

“By and by, even a healthy body cannot stand it.” He said mainland clergy are most vulnerable to cardiovascular disease and diabetes, which, along with cancer and chronic respiratory illnesses, are the leading diseases. Father Joseph said that diets have improved but, without proper exercise, priests could develop high blood pressure and other adverse health conditions that contribute to cardiovascular disease. He suggested that better health education among church workers about common and chronic diseases would help improve the situation.

12 CLASSIFIEDS Employment Group leader - Holy Spirit School, Overland Park, is seeking a group leader for its extended day care program. If you enjoy children, have previous experience working with school-age children, have knowledge of child and youth development, are over 18 years of age, and have a high school diploma or GED, contact Eileen Colling, assistant principal, at (913) 492-2582 or send resume, via email, to: ecolling@ hscatholic.org. Hours are Mon. - Fri. from 2:45 - 5:45 p.m., with an occasional full day each month. Salary commensurate with experience.

North Central Service - Is hiring backhoe, bulldozer and directional bore machine operators for fiber optic projects in the Salina and south Kansas City, Kan. areas. CDL preferred; not an OTR position. For information or to apply, call (785) 257-3076.

Financial representative - Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding financial representatives in the Kansas City area.

This position is ideal for a determined, high-energy, high-expectation, professional, self-disciplined, independent individual desiring to serve others, yet earn a better-than-average income. We provide top-rated financial products to our members and their families and will provide excellent benefits and training. For information or an interview, contact John A. Mahon, 307 Dakota, Holton KS 66436; or call (785) 364-5450.

Director- The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking a new director of Christ’s Peace House of Prayer, a contemplative retreat center in Easton, Kansas, formerly known as Shantivanam House of Prayer.

The director will be responsible for the spiritual leadership and administrative oversight of the 120-acre facility. A successful candidate will be a practicing Catholic who embraces the church’s teachings on faith and morals as articulated by the church’s magisterium, and who possesses a comprehensive understanding of the Catholic faith and the traditions of the Catholic Church.

The position requires compassionate, effective communication skills; dedication to Christian contemplative prayer; and the values of solitude and hospitality for all guests. Knowledge of or experience in spiritual direction or counseling is desirable. Administrative/management experience in a retreat center/house of prayer setting is preferred. A complete job description, application and benefits information are available on the archdiocese’s website at: www.archkck.org/employment. Interested individuals should mail cover letter, resume, and application by Oct. 31 to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, Christ’s Peace Director Search, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, or send, via email, to: kthomas@archkck.org.

Services Tutoring grades pre-K - 9 - Licensed teacher available to tutor in math, reading, study skills and more. Reasonable price includes materials, educational incentives, and consultation with classroom teacher if preferred. For information, call Cabrina Magee at (913) 219-0203.

Machine quilting - by Jenell Noeth, Basehor.

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

Computer repair and upgrades/virus, spyware & malware removal - Microsoft certified, 11+ yrs. experience. Member of Sacred Heart Parish. Call Matt at (816) 876-6619 or send an email to him at: mattcomputerfix@gmail.com.

THE LEAVEN • SEPTEMBER 30, 2011 Faith-based counseling to cope with life concerns - Kansas City area. Call Mary Vorsten, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, at (913) 909-2002.

Cleaning - For experienced and dependable home or office cleaning, call Michelle at (913) 9085640.

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

Fall lawn cleanup Aeration, seeding, fertilizing & leaf removal Excellent references; licensed and insured Local parishioner; free estimates.

Insured; excellent references.

Call Tony at (913) 620-6063 Foley’s Lawn Care - fall is coming!

Aeration, verticutting & over-seeding Fall cleanup, mowing, mulch, landscaping & gutters. Free estimates; call (913) 825-4353 www.foleyslawncare.com Serving Johnson County for over 10 years.

Member of St. Joseph Church, Shawnee Rodman Lawn Care - Lawn mowing, leaf removal, hedge trimming, power washing, snow removal. Call (913) 548-3002 for a free estimate. Member of Holy Cross Parish, Overland Park.

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.

Caregiving 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 familyowned and based in Lenexa. Call Benefits of HomeSenior Care at (913) 422-1591 or visit our website at: www.benefitsofhome.com.

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.

Child Care Day care openings - Infant to preschool age. Mon. - Fri., from 6:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Over 30 years of experience; excellent references; reasonable rates. Located in Kansas City, Kan., with easy access to I-635, I-35 and I-70. Call Sandy at (913) 710-5657.

Home Improvement 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.

THE LEAVEN • SEPTEMBER 30, 2011 Adept Home Improvements Where quality still counts!

Basement finishing, Kitchens and baths, Electrical and plumbing, Licensed and insured.

(913) 599-7998 Tile work - Ceramic tile installation/repair for your kitchen and bathrooms. I also do custom showers and flooring projects. 20 years experience; insured. For a free estimate, call Frank Womack, In Line Flooring, at (913) 485-07454, or send an email to him at: inlineflooringkc@gmail.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.

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) 579-1835. Email: smokeycabin@ hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.

Clutter getting you down? Organize, fix, assemble, clean . . . we do it all! For a free consultation, call your professional organizing handyman, Kevin Hogan, M.Ed., today at (913) 271-5055. Insured; references. Visit the website at: www.koatindustries.com.

Swalms Organizing Service - Basement, garage, attic, shop — any room organized! Items taken to donation sites, trash is bagged, and areas are clean and neat when job is complete. To view before-andafter pictures, visit the website at: www.swalms.com.

Over 20 years of organizing experience; insured. Call Tillar at (913) 375-9115.

Tim the handyman - Small jobs are my specialty! Faucets, garbage disposals, toilets, light fixtures, ceiling fans, handrails, window screen repair, bush trimming and garden tilling. Free estimates. JoCo only. Call (913) 859-0471.

Carpet direct – We cut out the middle man and bring the showroom to you! The best place to see your flooring is in your own home or office. Save 40 - 80% on carpet and hard surfaces. Residential and commercial. For a free estimate, call Amanda at (913) 742-4003.

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.

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.

Electrician - Free estimates; reasonable rates.

JoCo and south KC metro. Call Pat at (913) 963-9896.

Brick masons - Installation and repair of all types of masonry work — brick, stone, and concrete.

17 years of residential and commercial experience.

Small and large jobs accepted. KC Metro area. For a free quote, call Jim or John at (913) 485-4307.

Want to help someone heal from an abortion?

Call Toll Free 888-246-1504

Father and son team - We do roofing, windows, doors, siding, brick masonry, all types of wood rot, fences and decks, retaining walls, landscaping and concrete. You name it, we can do it — no job to big or small. Reasonable prices; fully insured. Call Josh at (913) 709-7230.

Master electrician - Licensed in Missouri and Kansas. 35 years experience in residential and commercial electrical needs. Call Rick, L & M Electric, at (913) 362-1501 or (816) 781-1501.

EL SOL Y LA TIERRA *Commercial & residential * Lawn renovation* Mowing * Clean-up and hauling * Dirt grading/installation * Landscape design * Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!!

Call Lupe at (816) 252-3376

For Rent Office space available - Great location in the Ranchmart area of Prairie Village. Ideal for start-ups, professional and small businesses. Flexible terms.

Call Marek at (913) 461-4491.

Real Estate Winter Park, Colo. - 2 BR, 2 BA, fully furnished first-floor condo near the clubhouse and pool/hot tub. Close to downtown shopping, golf, hiking and biking, and on bus line to Winter Park/Mary Jane base ski area. Rental income opportunity also available. Call (816) 809-7739 or (913) 897-0220.

For Sale For Sale - Single burial plot in the Queen of Heaven Garden at Resurrection Cemetery in Lenexa.

Lot 120; section A; space 4. Price of $3000 includes plot, liner, opening and closing. Call Mary Ann Tatman at (417) 365-0760.

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.

Wanted to Buy Cash for your antiques - Coins, watches, silverware, old rifles and shotguns, pocket knives, old military items, Zippo lighters, duck decoys, antique toys, old signs, old pine or primitive furniture. Call Chris at (913) 593-7507 or (913) 642-8269. *** Want to buy *** Antique or vintage jewelry Single pieces or entire estate Renee Maderak (913) 631-7179 St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee Will buy firearms and related accessories One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee.

Concrete Work

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

Harvey M. Kascht (913) 262-1555

1

Oct.

The Leavenworth Regional Catholic Schools Foundation will host a 5K run/walk at 8:30 a.m. on Oct. 1 at the new Xavier School, 541 Muncie Rd., Leavenworth. The cost is $20 for participants age 14 and older; $40 per family.

Children under 14 years must be accompanied by a parent. For information and a registration form, visit the website at: www.foundation.leavenworthcatholic schools.org.

Father David McEvoy, O. Carm., will celebrate a Mass for Immaculata High alumni at 5:30 p.m. on Oct. 1 at St. Joseph Church, Leavenworth. There will be a dinner and dance following at the Leavenworth Event Center, 3501 S. 4th St. Members of the 1962 state champion basketball team will be honored. For information, visit the website at: www. leavenworthcatholicschools.org or call the administration office at (913) 6827801.

2 The annual Life Chain will be held from 1:30 - 2:30 p.m. on Oct. 2

along 95th St. between Quivira and State Line in Johnson County, and along Parallel Pkwy. between 104th Terr. and 110th St. in Kansas City, Kan. Holy Family Church, Summerfield, will host its fall bazaar on Oct. 2. A turkey dinner with all the trimmings will be served from 4:30 - 8 p.m. The cost is $8 for adults; $4 for children under 12. There will also be a country store, children’s games and a chance book drawing.

St. Boniface Church, Scipio, will hold its annual fall bazaar from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Oct. 2. A roast beef and chicken and noodle dinner with all the trimmings will be served. The cost is: $8 for adults; $4 for children ages 5 - 10; children ages four and under eat for free. Carryouts will be available for $10.

St. Francis Xavier Parish, 301 E. James, Mayetta, will host its annual bazaar on Oct. 2. A roast pork or turkey dinner will be served from 3:30 - 6 p.m. The cost is $7 for adults; $3.50 for children ages 3 - 12. There will also be a silent auction, raffles, games, bingo, and a cakewalk.

Divine Mercy Church, 155 W. Main, Gardner, will host an Oktoberfest on Oct. 2 from 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the parish center, 122 W. Warren St. Dinner will feature American and German foods.

The cost is: $8 for adults; $4 for children ages 4 - 12; children ages four and under eat for free. There will also be a silent auction, a craft show, a cakewalk, raffles, bingo and children’s games. For information, call the parish office at (913) 8567781.

St. Theresa Church, Perry, will host its annual fall bazaar on Oct. 2. A turkey or ham dinner with all the trimmings will be served from 11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

The cost is $8 for adults; $4 for children.

Carryouts will be available. There will also be a silent auction, raffles, bingo, a cakewalk, games, baked goods, and other items for sale.

Sacred Heart-St. Casimir Parish, 1401 2nd Ave., Leavenworth, will host its annual fall fest from noon - 3:30 p.m. on Oct. 2. There will be a turkey and ham dinner, entertainment, an auction, a classic car show, white elephant sale, a country store and games for all ages.

2 & 9 The archdiocesan vocation office will host Project Andrew, an

opportunity for young men ages 15 - 20 to learn about vocations, from 4 - 7 p.m. on Oct. 2 at Most Pure Heart of Mary Church, 1800 S.W. Stone, Topeka, and on Oct. 9 at St. Michael the Archangel Church, 5200 W. 143rd St., Leawood.

Young men will meet and pray with Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann and enjoy dinner with archdiocesan priests. Parents are also invited to a special session. Registration is required. To RSVP, call the vocation office at (913) 647-0303; send an email to: vocation@archkck.org; or visit the website at: kckvocations.com.

3

The St. Lawrence Institute for Faith and Culture and the Notre Dame Club of Topeka will cosponsor “Did the Founding Fathers Intend to Separate Church from State,” a presentation by Vincent Phillip Muñoz, the Tocqueville Associate Professor of Religion and Public Life at the University of Notre Dame. It will be held at 7 p.m. on Oct. 3 in Alderson Auditorium at the University of Kansas Union, Lawrence. The lecture is free and open to the public. For information, call (785) 843-0357, ext. 211, or send an email to: klombardi@st-lawrence.org.

4 The Atchison Region Serra Club will host a meeting from 7 - 8:30 p.m. on

Oct. 4 in the ACES chapel, 201 Division St., beginning with a Mass for vocations. For information, call Tim or Susan at (913) 367-2227.

St. Philippine Duchesne Latin Mass Community will host its annual pro-life dinner at 6:30 p.m. on Oct. 4 at the Civic Center, 13817 Johnson Dr., Shawnee. Tickets cost $30 per person. To purchase tickets, send a check, payable to SPD Dinner, to: Father John Fongemie, 5412 Bluejacket, Shawnee KS 66203.

The Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan., will offer “Give Yourself Credit,” a four-part financial program for women, from 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. Tuesdays, beginning Oct. 4.

For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the website at: www. mountosb.org/kwc.

6

All Christians are invited to participate in a Taizé prayer service at 7 p.m. on Oct. 6, and every first Thursday of the month, at Annunciation Chapel, located on the Leavenworth campus of the Sisters of Charity, 4200 S. 4th St. Taizé prayer is a meditative, candlelit service that includes repeated chants, silence, and prayers of praise and intercession. For information, call (913) 758-6572, or visit the website at: www.marillaccenter.org.

Sophia Center, 751 S. 8th St., Atchison, will host “Lectio Divina,” facilitated

by Benedictine Sister Cecilia Olson, from 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. on Oct. 6. Learn how to practice the ancient art of prayerful reading. The cost is $50. For information or to register, call (913) 360-6151 or visit the website at: www.mountosb.org/ sophia.html.

8

St. Aloysius Church, Meriden, will host a 5K run, a one-mile fun run/ walk, and a dodgeball tournament on Oct. 8 at Jeff West Middle School. Registration will begin at 7 a.m.; the 5K and fun run will begin at 8 a.m. For information or to register, call (785) 484-2711. The dodgeball tournament will begin at 9 a.m.

The cost is $30 per team of six players. To register, call (785) 945-4066.

The Shawnee Knights of Columbus will host their first-ever classic rock dance from 7 - 11 p.m. on Oct. 8 at their hall, 11221 Johnson Dr. The cost of $5 includes brats, chips and snacks. Attendees must be 21 years or older. For information or to make group reservations, contact Keith Winterhalter at (913) 631-2173 or Gary Van DeBerghe at (913) 226-4407.

The Catholic Education Foundation will host its annual Gaudeamus dinner on Oct. 8 at the Overland Park Convention Center, located at 6000 College Blvd. This year’s dinner will honor archdiocesan Catholic school pastors. All proceeds will fund scholarships for children in need.

For information or to RSVP, call (913) 6470344 or visit the website at: www.cefks. org.

Sophia Center, 751 S. 8th St., Atchison, will host “Mystic of the World: Catherine of Siena” from 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. on Oct. 8, presented by Benedictine Sisters Sheila Carroll and Gabrielle Kocour. The cost is $50. For information or to register, call (913) 360-6151 or visit the website at: www.mountosb.org/sophia. html.

9 St. Philip Neri Church, 500 Parker Ave., Osawatomie, will host a fall

bazaar on Oct. 9 at the city auditorium, located at 5th and Main. A chicken and noodle and chili dinner will be served from 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. The cost is $8 for adults; $4 for children ages 5 - 12. There will also be a bake sale, a county store, children’s games, raffles and an auction.

St. Aloysius Church, 615 Wyandotte, Meriden, will host a fall bazaar on Oct. 9. A turkey and ham dinner with all the trimmings will be served from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. The cost is: $8 for adults; $4 for children ages 5 - 12; children two and under eat free. Carryouts will be available.

St. Bede Church, 7344 Drought St., Kelly, will host its annual soup supper and auction on Oct. 9. The supper will be served from 4 - 7 p.m. A freewill donation will be accepted. There will be games for all ages in the gym from 5 - 8 p.m., followed by a handmade quilt auction at 8 p.m.

Sacred Heart Church, 1100 West St., Tonganoxie, will host its annual turkey dinner and bazaar on Oct. 9. Dinner will be served from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Carryouts will be available. The cost is: $9 for adults; $5 for children ages 3 - 12; children 2 and under eat free. There will be a country store, bingo, raffles, children’s games and a themed-basket silent auction.

St. Mary Church, Purcell, will host a pancake luncheon from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. on Oct. 9. A freewill donation will be accepted.

13

Donnelly College, 608 N. 18th St., Kansas City, Kan., will host “Coffee on Campus,” an opportunity to learn about all the advancements at Donnelly while enjoying a free cup of coffee, on Oct. 13.

Attendees can also request a tour of campus. For information or to RSVP, send a email to: advancement@donnelly.edu.

The University of Saint Mary will host its annual theology lecture, entitled “Hope in Challenging Times: Where Shall We Turn?,” presented by Father Don Goergen at 7 p.m. on Oct. 13 in Xavier Theatre on the university’s Leavenworth campus, 4100 S. 4th St. The lecture is free and open to the public. Seating is limited, so arrive early.

CALENDAR 13

13-16

Sophia Center, 751 S. 8th St., Atchison, will host a Benedictine immersion experience, presented

by Benedictine Sisters Judith Sutera and Marcia Ziska, from 7 p.m. on Oct. 13 through 2 p.m. on Oct. 16. This retreat is for those interested in deepening their spiritual life or just curious about monastic life. The cost is $200; advance registration is required. For information or to register, call (913) 360-6151 or visit the website at: www.mountosb.org/sophia. html.

Marillac Center, located on the campus of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth, 4200 S. 4th St., Leavenworth, will host a poetry workshop from 7 p.m. on Oct. 13 through 5 p.m. on Oct. 16. The retreat, facilitated by Sister Mary O’Connor, a Sister of Mercy from Ireland, will explore seasons in the life of faith. The cost is $75 for the retreat only; $180 for the retreat plus room and board. Scholarships are available for those in need. Registration is requested by Oct. 3. For information or to RSVP, call (913) 758-6552 or visit the website at: www.marillaccenter.org.

14-16

Rediscover your marriage! The Retrouvaille program offers the opportunity to rediscover yourself, your spouse, and a loving relationship.

The next Retrouvaille weekend is Oct. 14 - 16. For confidential information or to register, call 1 (800) 470-2230 or visit the website at: www.retrouvaille.org.

15

The Altar Society of St. Mary-St. Anthony Church, Kansas City, Kan., will

host its annual Oktoberfest from 5 - 8 p.m. on Oct. 15 at Bishop Forst Hall. The cost is $9 for adults; $4.50 for children 12 and under. Advance purchase tickets are required. For information or to purchase tickets, call the parish office at (913) 3711408.

St. Patrick Parish, 1086 W. 94th St., Kansas City, Kan., will host a chili dinner and bingo night in the parish center on Oct. 15. Serving will begin at 6 p.m.; bingo will begin at 7 p.m. The cost is $8 for adults; $3 for children 10 and under.

To purchase advance tickets or to reserve a table, call Sheri at (913) 788-8780 or Margaret at (913) 441-9487.

16

Donnelly College alumni are invited on a bus trip to Mount St. Scholastica in Atchison on Oct. 16. Enjoy visiting with former classmates and teachers, sing the Liturgy of the Hours with the Sisters, attend Mass, have lunch and tour the monastery. For information or to RSVP, contact Roger Berg, alumni relations coordinator, at (913) 621-8744 or send an email to him at: alumni@donnelly.edu.

St. Pius X Parish, 5500 Woodson, Mission, will host a mini-retreat, entitled “Mary: Mother and Disciple,” with a special presentation by Mike Scherschligt of the School of Faith on Oct. 16.

Mass will be celebrated at 8:30 a.m.; the retreat will follow from 9:30 - 12:15 p.m.

For information or to RSVP, call (913) 432-4808 or send an email to: trish millerdre@yahoo.com.

Queen of the Holy Rosary-Wea Parish, 22279 Metcalf, Bucyrus, will host a fall bazaar from noon - 6 p.m. on Oct. 16. The QHR Men’s Club will serve a fried chicken dinner with all the trimmings.

The cost is: $10 for adults; $5 for children ages 3 - 12; children under three eat free.

There will also be a country store, bingo, children’s games, raffles and more. For information, call the parish office at (913) 533-2462.

14 COMMENTARY

THE LEAVEN • SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

MARK MY WORDS

Catholic Press Association Award Winner

1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011

QUOTE WEEK

OF THE

“To a person, she really affects you in a way that it’s not just a story. You’re going to be moved to the same kind of hope, the same kind of faith and same kind of courage. That’s a part of the reason Wangari Maathai is so important to the world. She does not act on her own. She acts in a way that you become one with the movement to whatever needs to be done to improve our world.”

Sister Thomasita Homan, a member of the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica See story on page 5 TWENTY-SEVENTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME

I

t’s probably a good thing that I’m not a liturgist. I’m sure that I’d spend way too much time renaming things. This past week is a great example. Officially known as the Twenty-sixth Week in Ordinary Time, I’d have called it “Crabby Week” instead.

Let’s take Sept. 27. The Gospel that day spoke about the apostles James and John who are so upset at the inhospitable attitude of a Samaritan village that they say to Jesus, “Lord, do you want us to call down fire from heaven to consume them?” Not exactly the attitude of compassion that Jesus was teaching. It’s no mystery why these two apostles were known as “Boangerges,” which means “sons of thunder.” I’d guess that they weren’t the most patient or understanding men in the world.

That same day, we celebrated the feast of St. Vincent de Paul, who many people rightly know for his dedicated work with the poor. What many aren’t aware of is that he had a tendency to “harshness and anger” and is further described by author Woodeene KoenigBricker as a “grump.” Only because “of his intense prayer life and deep commitment to his faith” was he able to gain control of himself.

September 30 is the feast of St. Jerome, another individual known for his bad temper or “feisty personality,” as author Mary Ellen Hynes describes it.

St. Jerome was responsible for translating the Bible from its original Hebrew and Greek into Latin. Despite his “hot temper,” he always had a special place in his heart for the poor and once said:

Oct. 4 Francis of Assisi, religious Jon 3: 1-10; Ps 130: 1-4, 7-8; Lk 10: 38-42 Oct. 5 Wednesday Jon 4: 1-11; Ps 86: 3-6, 9-10; Lk 11: 1-4 Oct. 6 Bruno, priest; Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher, virgin Mal 3: 13-20b; Ps 1: 1-4, 6; Lk 11: 5-13 Oct. 7 Our Lady of the Rosary Jl 1: 13-15; 2: 1-2; Ps 9: 2-3, 6, 8-9, 16; Lk 11: 15-26 Oct. 8 Saturday Jl 4: 12-21; Ps 97: 1-2, 5-6, 11-12; Lk 11: 27-28

“Today we must translate the words of Scripture into deeds, and instead of speaking saintly words, we must act them.”

I draw great comfort from these “crabby saints.” They give me hope and inspiration. Unfortunately, there are more days than I’d like to admit when I’m less than cheerful and optimistic.

And I know that I’ve not cornered the market on crabbiness. Saints like Vincent de Paul and Jerome show us a cure for being terminally crabby: Take a daily dose (or two . . . or more, as needed) of prayer and Scripture.

They’re good for what ails us.

But, if we’re already short on time during the day, when and how can we pray and meditate? Happily, there are fantastic resources out there — even for those glued to their smartphones or computers.

Here are a few of my online favorites: • Start with The Leaven’s website at: www.theleaven.com. There, under the “Links” tab, you’ll find a drop-down menu for the U.S. Catholic bishops’ website — www.usccb.org — which is a treasure trove. Not only does it include a calendar with each day’s Scripture readings for Mass in their entirety, but there is also a tab called “Prayer and Worship,” containing prayers, blessings, and devotionals.

Don’t have a Bible? No problem; there’s a complete one online at this site under the “Bible” tab.

• St. Anthony Messenger magazine has a wonderfully rich website as well at: www.americancatholic.org. It has

a saint of the day button and a minute meditation that you can receive each day via email or Twitter.

If you’re not computer literate or don’t have ready access to the Internet, don’t fret. Plenty is available the good old-fashioned way: in print form.

Among my favorites are these two: • “Living with Christ” is a monthly publication that is billed as “Our Daily Companion for Praying & Living the Eucharist.” The entire Mass is printed each day, complete with all of the prayers and readings. There are also several articles on spiritual topics each month. The booklet contains a short format for morning and evening prayer as well. At $25 a year for a subscription, it’s a bargain. You can get more information by calling 1 (800) 2143386.

• Similar to the booklet above is “Give Us This Day: Daily Prayer for Today’s Catholic.” Modeled on the Liturgy of the Hours, it includes morning and evening prayer, the day’s Mass prayers and readings in their entirety, and various other reflections — both on the readings and the saints in general.

A print subscription for this monthly publication is about $40 a year. Call 1 (800) 858-5450 for more information.

Personally, I prefer the daily resources because they’re a visual reminder for me to pray. They also make it easier for people who are not regular daily pray-ers or who are intimidated, perhaps, about how exactly to pray with the Scriptures to become more comfortable with it. (By the way, gift subscriptions for the print publications make great Christmas gifts.)

You know, when I started this column today, I felt kind of fretful and crabby. However, just writing about these prayer tools has made me feel much better.

Imagine what I’ll be like when I actually start using them!

SECOND THOUGHTS ON THE SECOND READING

Oct. 2 TWENTY-SEVENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Is 5: 1-7; Ps 80: 9, 12-16, 19-20; Phil 4: 6-9; Mt 21: 33-43 Oct. 3 Monday Jon 1:1 — 2:2, 11; (Ps) Jon 2: 2-5, 8; Lk 10: 25-37

Crab walk your way to sainthood

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Follow Paul’s lead to the God of peace

n the play, “Peter Pan,” the main character by that same name urges the Darling children to think “lovely, wonderful thoughts.”

If they do that, he assures them, then they will be able to fly, with the aid of some magic dust.

TWENTY-SEVENTH It’s a fairy tale, SUNDAY IN of course, but it ORDINARY TIME contains a kernel Phil 4: 6-9 of truth.

Sometimes there are thoughts which constantly run through our heads, so much so that we hardly notice them, as they stay in the background of our minds. But they influence our lives more than we often realize.

For example, if we are always beating ourselves up, telling ourselves that we will fail, then that most probably will happen. Conversely, if we think positive thoughts, they cannot help but have a good influence on us. Things will turn out

much better for us.

All this may sound much like Norman Vincent Peale, the minister who wrote the book “The Power of Positive Thinking.” But he is not the first to advance such ideas. We hear something along those same lines in Sunday’s second reading, Phil 4:6-9: “Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”

What can the Philippians expect if they follow St. Paul’s advice? “Keep on doing what you have learned and received and heard and seen in me. Then the God of peace will be with you.”

In other words, God is present wherever someone is thinking those ”lovely, wonderful thoughts.” St. Paul calls him “the God of peace,” since a feeling of peace fills the heart of anyone who is thinking those thoughts.

The wording “God of peace” inverts the phrase found earlier on in the reading: “Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”

According to St. Paul, that peace will result from prayer, entrusting our concerns and needs to God, so that we don’t worry about them anymore. A feeling of peace will result from turning to God. Similarly, when a feeling of peace is present in our hearts, that indicates God’s presence, whether we identify it as such or not.

The peace of God, the God of peace, that is what we seek. We are grateful to St. Paul for pointing us in the right direction. We have only to follow his lead.

Father Mike Stubbs is the pastor of Holy Cross Parish in Overland Park and has a degree in Scripture from Harvard University.

16 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

‘We want to live our theme,’ says students Continued from page 1 rate a square, and then you add color on the back and on the front.” She used rainbow colors, added pink, colored the back orange, and put a peace sign in the middle.

After an all-school Mass on Sept. 21 — International Day of Peace — students filed outside with their buddies.

They proudly planted their pinwheels for peace for the world to see.

“I think it just looks so beautiful,” said Avery.

Akright loved seeing the roughly 450 pinwheels all together.

“They — appropriately — look like children made them,” she said with a smile, “which makes them even more beautiful.”

The pinwheel project fits in with St. Ann’s theme for this year: “Let us do everything with great love.”

“We’ve really come together as a school,” said John, “and we’re trying to make the world a better place.”

Clara had swimming practice the night the school put out the pinwheels.

Some of her friends approached her and said, “I saw your school on the news. I think it’s really cool that you guys are doing this.’”

John hoped the pinwheel display could turn around a bad mood for someone driving by and highlight ways to help others.

“It just kind of brings their whole day up,” he said.

It also inspires students to look after each other during the school day — for instance, by making sure everyone has someone to sit with at lunch.

“I think it’s definitely influenced me about peace. I think it has influenced a lot of people here at St. Ann,” said John.

“I think it will bring us together a whole lot more.”

Clara liked the effort everyone put into the project.

“We really did want this to be as good as it was,” she said. “We wanted everyone to put their unique touch on the pinwheels.”

Bringing the school’s theme of doing all things with great love to life takes far more than merely knowing the words.

“A school can pick a theme and put it on a banner and just leave it alone,” said Akright. Not here, though.

“We want to live our theme,” she said.

The Beatitudes

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted.

Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land.

Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied.

Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.

Blessed are the clean of heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

(Mt 5:3-12) So every month, the students are taking on a new project: one that reflects the overall theme, while specifically demonstrating one of the beatitudes.

September’s pinwheels tie into “Blessed are the peacemakers,” while October’s project will highlight “Blessed are the merciful.”

Akright loves seeing so many students focused on “doing everything with great love.”

“I’m so proud of our teachers and our kids and how they’ve just taken this theme into their hearts,” said Akright. “I hear them mentioning it a lot.”

It took time to get all the pinwheels ready, and the work proved to be worth it.

“It shows we really do care, and we’re not just doing this because our teacher told us to,” said John.

“We all did it together as one school,” said Clara.

Putting faith in motion St. Ann School is taking its theme “Let us do everything with great love” to heart in many ways: • Each student and faculty member wears a green band that reads “Give>Take,” reminding each to give more than he or she takes.

• Each classroom features a large poster reading: “We, the students of St. Ann Catholic School, commit to a year based on respect, inclusion, service and

St. Ann eighth-graders Mary Beth Ferber (left) and Clare Kenney enjoy a laugh while planting their pinwheels.

spirit.” Each class wrote six statements to guide students as they live out the theme.

“They are so getting it,” said Becky Akright, principal. “It has really become entrenched, which is exactly what we’d hoped.”

• Students are telling on one another — in a positive way — when they see the good others are doing: maybe someone stopped to pick up a backpack or helped clear a table without being asked.

Akright keeps track of the reports

she hears.

“On ‘Thoughtful Thursday,’ I give a shout-out to all those kids,” she said.

One thing that really impresses her is that the kids aren’t telling her about things they’re doing themselves, but they’re watching for the good in others.

• Kids encourage one another by making nominations for “student of the week.” The honor recognizes students who have been a living example of the theme.

Honoring Blessed John Paul II WHAT: Mass in commemoration of Pope John Paul II WHEN: Oct. 1 at 10:30 a.m WHERE: Good Shepherd Parish, 12800 W. 75th St., Shawnee Main celebrant: Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann