10 14 22 Vol. 44 No. 10

Symphony violist promises young pupils

CAN DO HARD THINGS’

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

ROELAND

PARK —

When Ashley Stanfield first offered a violin class for students at St. Agnes School here last February, she expected ..15 to sign up.

“We ended up with 53 last year,” she said. “It was crazy and fun and chaotic and wonderful.”

This year, more than 30 St. Agnes students are learning the instrument for an hour after school on Mondays.

“I was shocked at the number of kids and overwhelmed a little bit in the beginning,” said Stanfield. “It’s such a nice problem to have.”

Stanfield is a professional viola player who is currently a substitute for the Kansas City Symphony and a member of the Opus 76 Quartet.

The opportunity to share her knowledge with the students at St. Agnes has been gratifying.

“The kids are so sweet and so en thusiastic about it,” she said. “We have a lot of fun.”

Emma Reyes, a third grader at St. Agnes, was excited to take Stanfield’s violin class “because this is my favor ite instrument.”

Reyes had never played violin before she started the class last year.

“It makes a really nice noise,” she said. “It’s a really beautiful instru ment.”

St. Agnes second grader Channing Glast also started the class last year.

“Well, my mom said I had to do it,”

she explained candidly.

But Glast soon discovered that learning the violin is fun.

She also plays the keyboard and said learning the two instruments is a different experience.

She enjoys playing a string instru ment “and seeing my friends and also playing songs.”

The after-school class is mostly made up of first through sixth grad ers.

Because of the high interest, Stan field had help last year from multi ple volunteers, including St. Agnes music and theater teacher Rachel Lackups.

This time around, she hired anoth er teacher so the class could be split in two. She also has help from one of her own violin students, Polly Ayala, a senior at Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park.

“I want to do violin as a career,” said Ayala. “I thought it would be a good learning opportunity, so I did it and I love it.”

Teaching young students has brought back memories for Ayala.

‘A really beautiful instrument’

LEAVEN PHOTO BY MOIRA CULLINGS

Ashley Stanfield, a substitute viola player for the Kansas City Symphony and a member of the Opus 76 Quartet, teaches a violin class at St. Agnes School in Roeland Park on Mondays after school. The class of more than 30 students will be taking a short recess soon for the arrival of Stanfield’s child, but classes will resume upon her return.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY MOIRA CULLINGS

Martin Cabrera practices how to hold his violin during a class at St. Agnes School in Roeland Park led by teacher Ashley Stanfield.

Reclaim your Sunday with an attitude of gratitude

Through the School of Faith’s dai ly rosary meditations, Mike Scherschligt has been encouraging his listen ers to reclaim Sunday as the Lord’s Day.

In his covenant with Israel, God includes in the 10 Commandments the obligation to keep holy the Sabbath. For Christians, the Lord’s Day is Sunday, com memorating the day of the resurrection, Jesus’ victory over death.

Why does God obligate us to keep holy at least one day of the week? Does God really crave or need our prayers of thanks giving? God gives this commandment to us because of our needs, not his. We need to pause, at least one day a week, and remind ourselves of the mean ing of life in this world. Once a week, we need to reorient ourselves to our ultimate purpose.

The Creator of the cosmos has fashioned us in his divine image. We are made to be in communion with him. Jesus reveals to us this God who pursues us and has made us for friendship with him. Once a week, we remind ourselves that we are not the center of the universe. But the One who is, desires us to share his divine and eternal life.

This past Sunday’s readings were all about gratitude and thanks giving. We are just a lit tle more than a month from celebrating our nation’s Thanksgiving Day holiday. For the Christian, every day is a day of thanksgiving.

Every time we come to Mass should be a mo ment when we become more keenly aware of God’s abundant bless ings. Of course, “Eu charist” itself means “thanksgiving.” Every

ARCHBISHOP

Mass summons us to ponder the many, many blessings in our lives.

Everything good in our lives ultimately comes from God.

Our very life, health, physical and intellectu al abilities, families and friends, the education al and employment opportunities, material things and comforts that we enjoy, all share the same source — a loving God.

Sadly, often it is only when some of these blessings are in jeopar dy that we begin to ap preciate how precious they are and their true source. When every thing is going rather smoothly in our lives, we can suffer from the illusion that all of the blessings we enjoy are simply the fruit of our own labors.

When a health or fi nancial crisis strikes us or someone we love, we begin to realize the fra gility of life and health. We become aware of how little control we have over the events of this world. If we have come to believe that life in this world is all there is, we realize our pitiable condition.

In this past Sun day’s Gospel, there are 10 lepers who Jesus encounters during his journey through Samaria. They have heard about Our Lord’s ability to heal and,

in their desperation, show faith by asking Jesus to heal them. Je sus does not instantly heal them, but instead he prays over them and tells them to go show themselves to the priests whose approv al they will need to re-enter society.

They manifest a beautiful faith, be cause they set out to show themselves to the priests before they are actually healed. It is on the way to the priests that their healing occurs. We can imagine their joy at being liberated from this socially isolating and deadly disease. Yet, only one (a Samaritan) returns to Jesus to give thanks. The others took the gift of their healing and ran. Jesus asks the pointed question: Were not all 10 healed?

We might marvel at the ingratitude of the nine lepers, who were cured but failed to give thanks. Yet, how often do we thank the Lord for his abundant blessings? Do we thank the Lord for all the days when we are healthy and do not need physical healing? Do we thank him for the amazing people he has placed in our lives?

Sometimes, I hear the complaint from the young and the old that Mass is boring and they do not receive anything from it. Priests carry a very heavy respon sibility. We have been given by Jesus, through his church, the unique

privilege of leading the celebration of the Eucharist and com municating through our words and actions the miracle in which the congregation is engaged. We also are empowered to preach the homily in which we are called to break open the word of God for our people and help them apply its meaning to their lives.

The musicians, choir and cantor have the privilege to lead the music and singing at Mass and are called to make it as beautiful and inspiring as is hu manly possible. Music and song can enrich our experience of the Mass.

Communion minis ters are privileged to assist with the distribu tion of the Eucharist. Altar servers have the opportunity to assist the priest with the celebration of the Mass. Lectors are privileged to proclaim the word of God. Each of these roles is important. How they are executed can help the congregation to enter into the mystery of the Mass.

However, we do not come to Mass to hear a talk or lecture. We do not come to be enter tained or even inspired by the music. We are not attending a concert or a performance.

Our motivation in coming to Mass should not be about what we will receive, but to give honor, glory and praise to the One who is the giver of life and the source of every bless ing in our lives.

When we come with an attitude of gratitude, we will experience many graces and bless ings. We leave Mass, knowing that whatever we experience in the coming week, we will not be alone. We carry with us Jesus, the Lord of lords and King of kings.

Oct. 15

ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN’S CALENDAR

Catholic Bar Association conference Mass — Dallas

Oct. 16

Denver priest retreat day one (retreat master) — Colorado Springs, Colorado

Oct. 21

Denver priest retreat last day (retreat master) — Colorado Springs, Colorado

Vitae banquet — Overland Park Convention Center

Oct. 22

Shamrocks for Scholarship benefit for St. Patrick School in Kansas City, Kansas, and honoring Msgr. Michael Mullen — Kansas Speedway

Oct. 23

Installation Mass for Father Daniel Coronado — Our Lady of Guadalupe, Topeka

Oct. 24

Northeast Kansas Catholic Health Services board meeting

Meeting with Catholic Answers — chancery

Annual school board formation Mass, dinner and program — Savior

Oct. 25

ACTS pastor and parish training and lunch — St. Joseph, Shawnee

Catholic Charities annual joint board meeting and vespers — Savior

It is no coincidence that as church atten dance has decreased in our society, and a grow ing number of people claim no religious affiliation, the rates of loneliness, anxiety and depression have increased. We need to reclaim Sunday to re mind ourselves that we are not gods, the lords of our own lives. We need to rediscover our true identity as beloved sons and daughters of a very loving heavenly Father.

God does not need Sunday nor does he need our worship. However, we need

to draw close to the source of life and love. We need Sunday to re orient ourselves to the fundamental meaning and purpose of life. It is not to make money or experience various pleasures or gain noto riety or fame.

The purpose of life is to know the God who has loved us into exis tence and desires for us to share in his life and to be in communion with him. Sunday is the most important day of the week, and the Eucharist should be the center of our Sunday. Let us reclaim Sunday!

F. NAUMANN

‘Domo arigato, Mr. Roboto’

Bishop Ward’s new cleaning robot protects students from viruses

By Dean Backes Special to The Leaven

KANSAS

CITY, Kan. — In order to bring an extra layer of protection here to the fight against COVID-19, influenza and other virus es, Bishop Ward High School facilities director Richard Williams is going high-tech.

Tasked with finding a solution for disinfecting and sanitizing classrooms, Williams’ maintenance man Anthony Taylor located a self-propelled robot that wanders from room to room exter minating microscopic airborne patho gens.

“I think it’s going to be an amazing tool for us to mitigate a lot of the influ enza, COVID-19 and other viruses that can be passed along in a school,” Wil liams said of his new germ-fighting toy. “It keeps kids in class and gives teach ers the ability to be that much more ef fective in their teaching.

“That’s why we got it. To be able to help our kids and really foster that learning experience.”

Using grants that were available to the school through the CARES Act for the specific purpose of helping a school promote an environment that limits the spread of disease, school officials purchased its Adibot through UBTECH, a global robotics and AI technology company.

Armed with Simultaneous Localiza tion and Mapping technology (SLAM), Williams’ new tool creates its own floor plans and then navigates autonomous ly within them. The robot can also be controlled remotely.

“It can go from room to room,” Bishop Ward president Jay Dunlap said. “If you give it a map, it can nav igate by itself. As long as you have the doors opened, it will go in the rooms and, using ultraviolet light, will kill viruses that are airborne pathogens, such as coronavirus.

“I guess you’d say the opportunity presented itself because of the funds available, the specific purpose for those funds and the fact that we learned about this machine.”

According to the company’s web site, Moe — as he is known by students and faculty through a naming contest — has intelligent safety features that ensure the smooth running of the pro grammed disinfection routes.

Since the robot uses UV-C rays to break the reproductive chain of virus es, Moe is equipped with risk-reducing cameras, PIR sensors that detect human movement via body heat, acoustic warn ings, sensor-controlled safety signs, an emergency remote control with stop button and an emergency stop switch.

Moe provides 360-degree radiation coverage, and its 16 UV-C lamps effec tively disinfect 99.9% of the rooms he enters. The robot is optimally used in medical facilities, hospitals, dental

practices, hotels, offices and fitness centers.

The first school in the region to purchase an Adibot, Bishop Ward is a pilot program for UBTECH and robots like Moe in Kansas, Nebraska and the surrounding area. After Bishop Ward purchased the robot, UBTECH repre sentatives walked Williams and Taylor through the robot’s programming, its sensors and all of the hardware that is required to keep Moe running.

Since Bishop Ward consists of three floors and has no elevators, the robot has been sanitizing the first floor while

Williams looks for a way to transport the robot to the other two floors. Once a solution is discovered, Moe will be put to work sanitizing a different floor every night.

The robot has a circular light at the top that signals “green” when it is safe for students and faculty to cross his path. If the robot is disinfecting when a student or faculty member walks into the room, Moe will automatically pause until it’s safe to continue. If a student or faculty member sneezes or becomes ill, Moe can be brought in to extinguish any germs that may be left behind.

Students, faculty and passersby can view the robot while it is working through a glass window because Moe’s light cannot penetrate the window. However, anyone that encounters a working Adibot without that protec tion may suffer symptoms similar to a sunburn or receive injuries to their eyes.

While he may not be able to serve up a hot, delicious breakfast, Moe, who was named after a similar character in the 2008 Disney-Pixar animated fea ture film “WALL-E,” is quite capable of battling germs and viruses and keep ing kids in school.

“Clearly, I think we’re all interested in doing what we can to get the environ ment as healthy as possible,” Dunlap said. “This seems like a mechanism that will help.”

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)

Rev. Joseph F. Naumann

Rev. Mark Goldasich, stl frmark.goldasich@theleaven.org

Managing Editor

McSorley

Manager

Habiger

Reporter

Bollig

Advertising Coordinator

Blankenship

Social Media Editor/Reporter

Cullings

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Bishop Ward High School maintenance worker Anthony Taylor gets Moe — the school’s Adibot cleaning robot — ready for action. Moe was pur chased using grants that were available to the school through the CARES Act.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Moe is a self-propelled robot that wanders from room to room exterminating microscopic air borne pathogens. It uses ultraviolet light to kill viruses that are airborne.

I THINK IT’S GOING TO BE AN AMAZING TOOL FOR US TO MITIGATE A LOT OF THE INFLUENZA, COVID-19 AND OTHER VIRUSES THAT CAN BE PASSED ALONG IN A SCHOOL.

RICHARD WILLIAMS BISHOP WARD FACILITIES DIRECTOR

MSGR. KRISCHE HONORED

On Sept. 30, the Catholic Campus Ministry Association presented Msgr. Vince Krische with an award designed to teach future genera tions about his impact. The Msgr. Krische Faithful Steward Award will be given each spring by CCMA to a campus ministry professional who demonstrates excellence in evangelization and ministry. Msgr. Krische served as the chaplain and director of the St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center at the University of Kansas for nearly 30 years. While at KU, Msgr. Krische led the transformation of the center, expanding its outreach to students as well as its influence within the university. Above, CCMA’s executive director Michael St. Pierre presents Msgr. Krische with his award alongside Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann.

Marilyn (Heinen) and Gary Evans, mem bers of Sts. Peter & Paul Parish, Seneca, will cel ebrate their 60th

wedding anniversary on Oct. 22. The couple was married on Oct. 20, 1962, at Sts. Peter & Paul. Their children are: Lisa Lummis, Dean Evans, Steven Evans, Cheryl Sherman, Ryan Evans, Matthew Evans and Andrew Evans. They also have 11 grandchildren.

Janey (Sixta) and Mark Kuzila, members of Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa, cele brated their 50th wedding anni versary with a reception hosted by their chil dren. The couple was married on Oct. 20, 1972, at Christ the King Church in Kansas City, Kansas, by Father Tom Dolezal. Their children are: Amy Slaughter, Matt Kuzila, Bridget Craig, Peter Kuzila and Justin Kuzila. They also have eight grandchildren.

“I remember learning some of this stuff,” she said, “[like] the little songs that you first learn and think of in your head when you’re trying to learn.”

Ayala has enjoyed working with Stan field, who she said is “a great teacher.”

“She’s so quick to answer questions and understand a piece of music,” she said. “The way that she understands the music in a deeper way than just playing it is really cool.”

A passion worth pursuing

“Music is sort of a lifestyle rather than a profession,” said Stanfield.

It’s been the guiding force for most of her life.

She started playing viola in the Shawnee Mission school strings pro gram around fifth grade.

By age 15, she convinced her mom to let her attend the Interlochen Center for the Arts in Michigan, where she spent two years before transferring to the Idyllwild Arts Academy in California.

“The draw was if I went there, I could study with the principal violist of the Los Angeles Philharmonic,” she said.

Stanfield wasn’t afraid to make big moves for the instrument she loved.

“You get to meet so many differ ent people and so many international people,” she said. “At art school, every body’s a little bit strange and fun.”

Stanfield’s husband Keith, a native of London whom she met while pursuing her undergraduate degree at the Royal Academy of Music there, is also a violin player.

Keith is a cradle Catholic who’s been involved in the Kansas City Symphony, is the first chair violinist in the Kansas City Civic Orchestra and a member of Opus 76.

The quartet has its own series of concerts at the Midwest Trust Center at Johnson County Community College in Overland Park.

It also plays a popular series of can dlelight concerts at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Kansas City, Missouri.*

The Stanfields’ son Rory, a second grader at St. Agnes, is learning violin, too, and takes the after-school class with his mom.

“One of the downsides to being a pro fessional musician and performing,” said Stanfield, “is that traditional hours where parents might be able to volun teer for something I’m not available.

“I was looking for ways that I could get involved in the school.”

Stanfield wanted to make learning the violin fun for Rory and offer the same chance for his peers.

“There’s so many nice things about our family’s experience with Catholic schools,” she said.

“I love the idea that it’s possible to still have all the extra activity options that they would have if they went to public school,” she added.

Lessons for a lifetime

Jane Sullivan, principal at St. Agnes, is grateful for Stanfield’s work.

“It is a dream come true to have a pro fessional teach our students,” she said. “Our goal is to develop a love and appre ciation for the arts.”

Sullivan said St. Agnes strives to en hance its fine arts department.

“We are so blessed to have a commu nity where each child is given opportu nities to develop into faith-filled leaders — to use these skills in whatever path God has planned for them,” she said.

Stanfield said the benefits of learning an instrument like the violin are vast.

“Certainly, having to learn a skill

where you have to be calm and quiet and in control of your body and making sure that you’re responsible for your instru ment,” she said.

“There’s a lot of autonomy in taking care of things that I expect from them,” she continued, “even the first graders.”

Stanfield said the students learn to rec ognize pitches, remember directions and express themselves through music.

A goal she has for the future is to apply for grants so the program can be com pletely free, although it currently offers scholarships and doesn’t turn any child away.

She also hopes her class can partici pate in outreach opportunities by play ing in settings like nursing homes and at Mass.

Although she believes learning the violin can instill numerous values in stu dents, one in particular stands out.

“I think the primary one at this level when we start is that you can do hard things,” she said. “You can do things that seem really complicated, and you can be successful in them if you are willing to keep trying.”

*For the schedule, search KC, then Opus 76, on the Fever app, or go online to: feverup.com/kansas-city and search “Opus 76.”.

Glenna and Joe Stumpff, members of Prince of Peace Parish, Olathe, will cel ebrate their 50th wedding anniver sary on Oct. 20. The couple was married on Oct. 20, 1972, at Holy Trinity Church, Lenexa. Their children are: Bob, Tom and Matt. They also have two grandsons.

Jack (“John”) and Rosemary Landes, mem bers of Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish, Overland Park, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniver sary on Oct. 15 with a family dinner. The couple was married on Oct. 13, 1962. Their children are: Debbie Landes Pate, Kathy Landes Webb and Laura Landes. They also have seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

ANNIVERSARY SUBMISSIONS

POLICY: The Leaven prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th anniversary notices.

DEADLINE: 10 days before the desired publication date.

INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:

• The couple’s names

• their parish

• the date they were married

• church and city where they were married

• what they are doing to celebrate

• date of the celebration

• names of children (no spouses)

• number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren;

WHERE TO SUBMIT: Email: todd.habiger@theleaven.org.

‘I was looking for ways I could get involved in the school’

IT IS A DREAM COME TRUE TO HAVE A PROFESSIONAL TEACH OUR STUDENTS. OUR GOAL IS TO DEVELOP A LOVE AND APPRECIATION FOR THE ARTS.

JANE SULLIVAN PRINCIPAL AT ST. AGNES, ROELAND PARK

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

New book encourages readers to live simply

By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

ARLINGTON,

Virginia —

Approximately 300,000.

That’s how many items the average American home contains, according to professional organizers. Catholic author Laraine Bennett said she finds the fact mind-boggling.

Still, she said it can be difficult to let go of possessions, as she learned first hand from her own move from a home of 4,000 square feet to one of around 1,000. The move, along with her per sonal journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth, is recounted in her latest book “The Little Way of Living with Less: Learning to Let Go with the Little Flower,” released in September by Sophia Institute Press.

The book does not fall into the genre of home organizational books (although tips from a professional organizer are included). Instead, it is divided into 11 chapters ranging from “Decluttering the Soul” to “The Only Good Thing” and “‘Tis the Gift to Be Simple.”

In its pages, Bennett refers to vir tues like trust, poverty and simplicity as roses, alluding to St. Thérèse of Li sieux’s promise to shower the flower from heaven.

Because the book includes reflec tion questions, it can be used by book clubs, faith-sharing groups or “anyone who hopes to grow in love for God and neighbor by living with a little less.”

A few years ago, Bennett’s husband Art noted that as a couple they only used about 10% of their home.

It was at that point that the couple decided to get on board with “the min imalist bandwagon.”

But it was harder than expected, said Bennett.

“It turned out to be really hard for me, actually. It was a struggle,” she said. “I thought I’d be able to handle

this really easily — no problem.”

But she learned an unpleasant truth.

“I still have these attachments,” she continued. “So, kind of going through this, I realized I wanted to write about it [and the fact that] there’s virtues un derlying this process. I needed to grow in these virtues.”

St. Thérèse exemplified the virtues to a heroic degree, Bennett said.

“She lived in [the] upper middle class and it was a beautiful house that she grew up in,” Bennett added, “and she had beautiful things around her.”

But she saw the temptation.

Thérèse’s family “went back to Alençon,” recounted Bennett, “where she had been born and spent the first few years of her life. And they were being wined and dined and treated her very well. She saw these wonderful things, really beautiful things, and she understood the attraction.

“She understood the allure, and yet she remained so steadfast in pursuing her goal, which was to become a great saint, to love God with her whole heart, soul and strength. She’s just such a perfect example to me of what I felt I needed.”

Decluttering is hard work

“Without the motivation of truly inspiring goals — to strengthen the bonds of love, to serve others better, to follow Christ more perfectly, to love God with our whole mind, heart, soul and strength,” Bennett writes, “it is likely that we will soon find ourselves frustrated with any decluttering, orga nizing, or minimizing project.

“Simply tidying or organizing or minimizing without the motivation of a truly meaningful ideal will likely fall

short of the abundant life we are called to as Catholic Christians.”

While Bennett advocates living a simpler lifestyle, she said simplicity can be found in homes of all sizes. It’s more about having a particular mind set.

“On so many levels, we do need to let go of actual stuff and we need to prac tice that detachment of heart, that pov erty of spirit, as well,” she said. “I don’t want to minimize either one.”

It’s a lesson, Bennett added, she had to learn herself as it related to her Amish farmhouse dining room table.

“We had so many dinners around it,” she said. “We raised the kids with this table, and it’s a beautiful table. And so, I said, ‘Well, I’m not selling this one.’”

After disassembling the table, she shoved it underneath the bed. Months later, a friend encouraged her to sell it or give it away. Eventually, Ben nett said she realized the friend was right and gave the table to her son and daughter-in-law.

In the end, Bennett hopes people will benefit more spiritually from her book than anything else.

“I’m not trying to advocate that ev erybody has to be a minimalist,” Ben nett said.

She just wants them to put first things first.

“We want everyone who comes over to feel like they’re welcomed, cher ished,” she said. “We want our homes to be places where people experience love and generosity and humble ser vice. How can we best do that?

“We don’t have to have grandiose mansions, and we don’t have to have perfectly organized houses either. We don’t have to have incredibly beautiful artwork on the wall either.

“It’s what we can do with what we have, and how can we appreciate and be grateful for the many, many gifts that we do have [that matters].”

Decluttering and downsizing can be good for the soul, writes Catholic author Laraine Bennett. It can also be challenging if one is not in the proper frame of mind.

Author Laraine Bennett’s “The Little Way of Living with Less: Learning to Let Go with the Little Flower” recounts her personal journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth as she learned to dispose of possessions while downsizing her home. St. Thérèse of Lisieux’s feast day was celebrated by the Catholic Church on Oct. 1.

Retreat to focus on grief and the holidays

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

Taking

on the holiday season while grieving the loss of a loved one can be daunting, but an upcoming Zoom re treat is there to ease the pain.

“In the Catholic Church, November, in particular, is the time when we re member our loved ones who are part of the communion of saints in heaven,” said Mary Kay Whitacre.

“We hope to help participants cele brate what their loved ones’ presence meant when they lived among us on earth,” she added, “and to continue that love by the way they live their lives now.”

Whitacre is the associate director of Sophia Spirituality Center in Atchison, a ministry of the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica, as well as the associate director of the Souljourners Ecumenical Spiritual Direction For mation, a program sponsored by the Sophia Center.

She will facilitate “The Changing Seasons and Grief” retreat with Vicki Farley, a hospice chaplain in Hawaii.

The retreat will take place online via Zoom on Nov. 5 from 2-4 p.m.

Farley said she and Whitacre met during graduate school and “realized we had the same heart in wanting to assist others on their grief walk.”

The women want those who are grieving to know they’re not alone.

The retreat, said Whitacre, will be an opportunity for attendees to voice their grief, search for meaning and find peace in the pain, especially as the hol idays loom, the weather grows colder and the days get shorter.

“It can be very difficult to face the expectations of this season of joy with a grieving heart,” she said. “We hope to offer some practical suggestions for navigating these expectations.”

Farley hopes those who participate in the retreat will recognize God’s pres ence in their lives.

“We build a sacred space that allows for each person to express their loss and share their story,” she said. “We allow a sense of the sacred through quiet moments, story[telling] and an openness to question what their au thentic place is in their life of grief.”

The women are grateful for the tech nology that will allow them to reach a wider audience through this retreat.

“The Zoom retreat format has en abled us to share the Benedictine charism with a growing number of participants who may never be able to come to the Mount,” said Whitacre.

“We have been touched by the Spir it’s power to form personal connec tions,” she continued, “and to build a spiritual community electronically.”

A freewill donation will be accepted for those interested in attending “The Changing Seasons and Grief” retreat. To register, Google “the changing sea sons and grief retreat.”

Donnelly student recalls experience in refugee camp

Rwanda – the Tutsis (who colonial powers saw as racially superior) and the Hutus. The camp in Uganda was largely made up of Hutu refugees, and Mukobwa’s family is Tutsi.

Mukobwa recalled that “most indi viduals in the refugee camp wanted my family and me to go back to Rwanda. They despised our appearance, which triggered them because many in the camp were Hutu. As a child, I remember my neighbors and classmates asking me, ‘How does it feel to come from a rich and beautiful culture?’ At this time, I did not know what they were talking about since my parents had always taught me to love people no matter how different we might appear. Our neighbors in the camp would often threaten us. I remember one of my neighbors showing me his dad’s machete and saying that his dad would use it to kill my family. They did not like the way

we spoke, the way we carried ourselves and especially the way we looked. They would constantly tell us, ‘You look Tutsi, you have nothing to do here in the camp. Go back to Rwanda.’ We felt completely alone and unsafe.”

In this way, Mukobwa’s story parallels Ilibagiza’s — national unrest broke up both of their families and deeply changed their lives. Fortunately for Mukobwa, her family was reunited and able to im migrate to the United States together in 2014. Mukobwa was 13 years old.

During the pilgrimage, Mukobwa was able to share some of her story with Ilibagiza and discovered that “we relate to each other so much.” Their connec tion, forged on Donnelly’s campus and then in Rwanda, is a precious bond that Mukobwa hopes will last her entire life.

Mukobwa has now entered her second year at Donnelly and is studying sociology. She hopes to help immigrants become American citizens.

“I know what it’s like being in a coun try where you don’t feel safe and pro tected,” she said. “This is a part of many immigrants’ experience. I want to help them find somewhere to call home.”

Mukobwa finds that part of feeling at home involves having a close rela tionship with God. Through the jour ney back to Rwanda, this relationship with God has only grown stronger.

“Being a part of this pilgrimage has inspired me to stay strong no matter the hardships,” she said. “This pilgrim age taught me to always follow the way of God and not of this world. I am now more strong in my faith, and the way I view the world has changed forever. I’ve learned you cannot find happiness through worldly things.

“When you follow the things of this world, they often lead to disappoint ment. The only way to find peace and happiness is if you seek the kingdom of God.”

Grieving during the holiday season can be daunting. Mary Kay Whitacre, associate director of Sophia Spirituality Center in Atchison, a ministry of the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scho lastica, will facilitate “The Changing Seasons and Grief” retreat with Vicki Farley, a hospice chaplain in Hawaii. The retreat will take place online via Zoom on Nov. 5 from 2-4 p.m.

PHOTO BY ALINE MUKOBWA

Immaculée Ilibagiza, a survivor of the Rwan dan genocide of the mid-1990s, led a pil grimage to Kibeho, Rwanda, that had a great impact on Aline Mukobwa, a student at Don nelly College in Kansas City, Kansas.

A new pro-life battle: Physician-assisted suicide

By Maureen Pratt Catholic News Service

Pro-life

advocacy has been a blessing to fathers, mothers and lives unborn. However also important is determined Christian advocacy regarding another life issue: physician-assisted sui cide.

“Physician-assisted suicide occurs when a physician facilitates a patient’s death by providing the necessary means and informa tion to enable the patient to perform a life-ending act,” wrote Dr. F. Michael Gloth III, in an article for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Respect Life program.

The practice is, according to the American Medical Association, anti thetical to the essence and ethics of the practice of medicine. The association’s Code of Medical Ethics, Opinion 5.7, states: “Physician-assisted suicide is fundamentally incompatible with the physician’s role as healer, would be diffi cult or impossible to control and would pose serious societal risks.”

Physician-assisted suicide is also con trary to church teaching.

“Assisting in a suicide is an unjusti fied collaboration in an unlawful act that contradicts the theological relationship with God and the moral relationship that unites us with others who share the gift of life and the meaning of existence,” wrote the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith in its 2020 document, “Samarita nus bonus: on the Care of Persons in the Critical and Terminal Phases of Life.”

Despite ethical and moral objections, legalization of physician-assisted sui cide in Canada and the United States has spread.

Since the first state law legalizing it took effect in Oregon in 1997, nine U.S. states and the District of Columbia have allowed for some form of medically as sisted suicide. Organized support for le galization and/or expansion of access to the practice continues.

In March 2021, the Department of Justice in Canada announced a new medical assistance in dying law that “removes the requirement for a per son’s natural death to be reasonably foreseeable in order to be eligible for

MAID (medical assistance in dying).”

In April 2022, the state of Vermont began to allow patients to access end-oflife prescriptions via telemedicine.

Proponents of physician-assisted

suicide often couch the practice in seem ingly persuasive language. Terms such as “death with dignity” and “autonomy and freedom of choice” cloud what the practice truly is.

Also, legalization and the practice’s medical context create a sense of accept ability.

Sister Zoe Bernatsky of the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate, a pro fessor at Newman Theological College in Edmonton, Alberta, and a registered nurse, said, “Medical doctors and nurses are the most trusted professions. Legal izing physician-assisted death makes people think it’s probably OK. That’s a huge problem.”

Sometimes, in loneliness, life can seem dark. Catholics can counter the growing acceptance of physician-assisted suicide by actively promoting life, reaching out to suffering individuals so they do not journey alone through a terminal diag nosis or chronic, sharp pain.

Sister Bernatsky said, “Pope Francis has been very big on accompaniment.

Everyone has a different response to bad news, and so people need different levels of support. Any step we can make to reach out to people at any level of sick ness is important.”

Parish ministries or individual efforts that deliver help, or simply a kind pres ence to those who suffer, can combat the oppressive effects of isolation. Pastoral visits that bolster faith are also crucial, as is examining our own attitudes or fears about grief, suffering and death.

“Any deepening of our spiritual life will help us,” said Sister Bernatsky. “Taking time to pray, encouraging the reading of the psalms of lament, praying from our heart.”

Cultivating patience will help us meet suffering with understanding, compas sion and hope.

“There are so many things that are po larizing us,” said Sister Bernatsky. “We need to know that life is really complex and it is better to take a slow walk for ward. Journey one day at a time.”

CNS PHOTO/ART BABYCH

A woman is pictured in a file photo holding a sign during a rally against physician-assisted suicide on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Ontario. Cana dian bishops urged political leaders to reconsider changes in a bill that would expand physician-assisted suicide.

MEDICAL DOCTORS AND NURSES ARE THE MOST TRUSTED PROFESSIONS. LEGALIZING PHYSICIANASSISTED DEATH MAKES PEOPLE THINK IT’S PROBABLY OK. THAT’S A HUGE PROBLEM.

SISTER ZOE BERNATSKY SISTERS SERVANTS OF MARY IMMACULATE AND A PROFESSOR AT NEWMAN THEOLOGICAL COLLEGE IN EDMONTON, ALBERTA

One Sunday the whole world

EVERYYEAR, SOMETHING SPECIAL HAPPENS on the next-to-last Sunday joins all Catholics of the world into one community of mit ourselves to our common vocation through baptism: to be pation in the Eucharist and by giving generously to the collection of the Faith.

In 1926, Pope Pius XI instituted World Mission Sunday for the whole church collection taking place in October 1927.

Pope Francis’ message for World Mission Sunday this year reflects on (Acts 1:8). He reminds us that the Catholic Church is missionary in nature to share in this mission together. The Holy Father exclaims, “Would that already are by virtue of baptism: prophets, witnesses, missionaries of the to the ends of the earth!”

On World Mission Sunday, we join the pope in supporting his missions. home, we share in those celebrations taking place in every parish and school through our prayers and financial support, we bring the Lord’s mercy and communities in Pope Francis’ missions.

In a world where so much divides us, World Mission Sunday rejoices baptism, as it offers each one of us an opportunity to support the life-giving poor and marginalized in more than 1,100 mission dioceses.

Sunday for world

next-to-last Sunday of October. World Mission of faith. At Mass that Sunday, we recom be missionaries, through prayer, partici collection for the Society for the Propagation

church with the first worldwide mission

the theme: “You shall be my witnesses” nature and that we are called at baptism that all of us in the church were what we the Lord, by the power of the Holy Spirit, missions. As we pray and respond here at school throughout the world. Together, and concrete help to the most vulnerable rejoices in our unity as missionaries by our life-giving presence of the church among the

Elokia, a traumatized girl who is a participant in the OLAME project for rejected “witch chil dren,” sits with her arms crossed in Bukavu, Congo, May 3, 2018. Missio, one of Germa ny’s Pontifical Mission Societies, is marking the third World Day Against Witch Hunts by warning that the phenomenon is on the in crease worldwide.

Witch hunts on the rise worldwide, warns German aid agency

AACHEN, Germany (CNS) — Missio, one of Germany’s Pontifical Mission Societies, marked the third World Day Against Witch Hunts Aug. 10 by warn ing that the phenomenon is on the in crease worldwide. The German Catholic news agency KNA said that in at least 43 countries, women, but also men and children, are in mortal danger because they are being persecuted as alleged witches, according to the 2022 World Map of Witch Hunts published by missio Aachen. Missio said it had added Sierra Leone and Zimbabwe to the map since last year. Most of the countries

affected are in Africa, but the phenome non also exists in Southeast Asia as well as Mexico, Bolivia, Guatemala and Haiti. The current missio world map is based on conservative estimates. Other lists put the number of affected countries near 60, KNA reported. Experts said more people had been killed as alleged witches and sorcerers worldwide in the past 60 years than in the 350 years of Eu ropean witch hunts. The accusation of witchcraft often is triggered by sudden and inexplicable deaths or illnesses, but also by weather phenomena, Swiss Franciscan Sister Lorena Jenal said in a recent interview with KNA.

Refusal to help migrants is ‘sinful, criminal,’ pope says

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — The refusal to help desperate migrants “is revolting, it’s sinful, it’s criminal,” Pope Francis said as he canonized a bishop dedicat ed to assisting migrants and a Salesian brother who had immigrated with his family to Argentina. “The exclusion of migrants is criminal. It makes them die in front of us,” the pope said Oct. 9, referring to the deaths of migrants and refugees crossing dangerous seas in search of freedom and a dignified life. At the beginning of the liturgy in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis formally recognized the holiness of St. Giovan ni Battista Scalabrini, an Italian who founded the Missionaries of St. Charles Borromeo to care for migrants, and St.

Artemide Zatti, an Italian immigrant in Argentina who became a Salesian brother, pharmacist and nurse. The prayers at the Mass included one for “those forced to leave their homeland,” and asking God to teach people to share “his welcoming gaze toward all people” and “heal the throwaway culture of indifference.” Pope Francis focused much of his homily on the day’s Gospel reading about the 10 lepers healed by Jesus and, therefore, allowed back into society. “When we are honest with our selves, we realize that we are all sick at heart, all sinners in need of the Father’s mercy,” the pope said. “Then we stop creating divisions on the basis of merit, social position or some other super ficial criterion; our interior barriers and prejudices likewise fall. In the end, we realize once more that we are broth ers and sisters.” Pope Francis asked the estimated 50,000 people at the Mass to think about whether in their families, at work and in their parishes, they are willing to walk with others and listen to them, “resisting the temptation to lock ourselves up in self-absorption and to think only of our own needs.”

French Jesuit, South African Jewish scholar win Ratzinger Prize

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Fran cis has selected a French Jesuit theo logian and a Jewish law professor as winners of the Ratzinger Prize. The winners for 2022, announced by the Vatican Oct. 7, are: Jesuit Father Michel Fédou, professor of dogmatic theology and patristics at the Centre Sèvres of Paris and dean of the faculty of theology. He is a member of several theological organizations and commissions involved in ecumenical dialogue with Lutherans and Orthodox Christians; and Joseph H. H. Weiler, a professor of law at New York Univer sity School of Law where he also serves as European Union Jean Monnet Chair and co-director of the Jean Monnet Center for International and Regional Economic Law and Justice. He is also a senior fellow of the Minda de Gunz burg Center for European Studies at Harvard Law School. Born in South

Concrete Work

Any type of repair and new work Driveways, Walks, Patios

Africa, he has dual U.S. and Italian cit izenship. The Ratzinger Prize, a sort of “Nobel Prize in Theology,” is given to two scholars each year who stand out for their scientific research in the field of theology, regardless of their re ligious faith.

African faith leaders call for cancellation of punitive foreign debts

NAIROBI, Kenya (CNS) — Catholic leaders in Africa have called for the re moval of the unpayable debts, saying that the burdens were sinking their countries further into poverty. They said the con tinent was struggling with an unprece dented confluence of crises and urged in ternational leaders to prioritize actions that enable Africa’s recovery. The faith leaders wrote an open letter to the Group of 7 and African finance ministers, who were to meet during the Oct. 10-16 meet ings of the International Monetary Fund and World Bank in Washington. “The first priority is to remove the crushing burdens of unpayable debts, a call that we find consistently in the voice of leaders of diverse religious traditions, certain ly those of the Catholic Church,” said the statement signed by Archbishop Gabriel Justice Yaw Anokye of Kumasi, Ghana, president of Caritas Africa, the African confederation of Catholic charitable agencies that participate in the Caritas In ternationalis network. In the Oct. 5 state ment, the leaders highlighted the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, saying it led to an economic contraction of more than 3% and reversed years of development progress on the continent. The letter said since the pandemic began in 2020, more than 40 million have fallen into extreme poverty, after two decades of poverty re duction.

NEED HELP HEALING FROM A PAST ABORTION?

Member of Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish Harvey M. Kascht (913) 262-1555 Call or text 913-621-2199

CNS PHOTO/HARALD OPPITZ, KNA

Joseph H. H. Weiler

CNS PHOTO/FINBARR O’REILLY, REUTERS

A local hairdresser is pictured in a file photo working from the remnants of her home, de stroyed by the Cameroonian government, in a poor section of Yaoundé.

FALL & HOLIDAY CRAFT & BAKE SALE

501 S. Willow Dr., Olathe

Oct. 14 & 15 from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

The proceeds from the sales will be donated to the Olathe Pregnancy Clinic. Cash and checks only will be accepted.

HOW THE DEATH PENALTY SHORT CHANGES PUBLIC SAFETY

Mother Teresa of Calcutta Parish

2014 N.W. 46th St., Topeka Oct. 15 from 1 - 3 p.m.

Many people are aware that the death penalty costs far more than life in prison with out the possibility of parole. But they don’t think about all the other programs that could be supported with those cost savings — pro grams that actually work to promote public safely. Join us for a panel discussion about the costs of the death penalty and the way that money could be better spent to support mental health programs, victims’ services and more effective law enforcement.

WALKING WITH MOMS IN NEED

St. Benedict School

201 Unity St., Atchison Oct. 16 from 1:30 - 3 p.m.

St. Matthew Parish

2700 S.E. Virginia Ave., Topeka Oct. 18 from 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Holy Trinity Parish (Quigley Center) 9201 Summit St., Lenexa

Walking with Moms in Need will answer the following questions: What does Walk ing with Moms look like in a parish? What is the difference between Walking with Moms in Need and the Gabriel Project? What are ways volunteers can help? How can we sup port our local pregnancy resource centers?

The last 30 minutes will be a meet-and-greet with local support organizations. Register online at: archkck.org/prolife/activities/ pro-life-respect-life-month/.

GIFT AND CRAFT BAZAAR

St. Joseph Parish (McDevitt Hall)

11311 Johnson Dr., Shawnee

Oct. 15 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

This event is hosted by the Ladies’ Guild. McDevitt Hall is in the basement. An elevator is available. There will be more than 50 tables with hundreds of gifts and craft items. Lunch is available for a nomi nal fee. Call Mary Spruk at (913) 825-0358 if you have questions.

ROSARY RALLY IN HONOR OF OUR LADY OF FATIMA

St. Andrew the Apostle Parish

6415 N.E. Antioch Rd., Gladstone, Missouri

Oct. 16 from 3 - 4:15 p.m.

We will pray the joyful, sorrowful and glorious mysteries of the rosary. Benedic tion will follow, as well as an opportunity for attendees to enroll in the brown scapu lar. For more information, visit the website at: www.rosaryrallieskc.org.

MEMORIAL CELEBRATION OF LIFE FOR SISTER CLAUDETTE SCHIRATTI

Good Shepherd Parish

12800 W. 75th St., Shawnee

Oct. 18 at 6 p.m.

There will be a memorial/celebration to honor Sister Claudette Schiratti’s years of service as a music director, organist and accompanist at several parishes in the

NEED HELP

archdiocese. Mass will be followed by a prayer service of singing, sharing stories and fellowship. Join us in the prayer-filled celebration.

PRO-LIFE EVENT

Sheraton Hotel (Convention Center)

6100 College Blvd., Overland Park

Oct. 21 from 7 - 9 p.m.

Kirk Cameron, known as Mike Seaver from the television show “Growing Pains,” will be the speaker. His newest film feature is about the value of life in the womb and the beauty of adoption. His film “Lifemark” is set to hit theaters in September. He and his wife Chelsea have been married for 31 years and have six children. All proceeds benefit the Vitae Foundation. Dinner and the program cost $100 per person ($70 is tax deductible). To register, go online to: vitaefoundation.org or call (573) 634-4316.

NATURAL FAMILY PLANNING CLASS St. John the Evangelist Parish (Extra building)

200 W. 13th St., Lawrence Oct. 21 at 6:30 p.m.

An in-person (or online) course in the sympto-thermal method of natural family planning will be offered by the Couple to Couple league. A course fee is charged and online registration is required at: livethelove. org. Call Shannon or John Rasmussen at (785) 749-1015 for more information.

CALLED TO LOVE AGAIN DIVORCE SUPPORT MINISTRY Church of the Ascension

9501 W. 127th St., Overland Park Oct. 22 at 6 p.m.

We will be hearing a personal witness from one of our longtime members and discuss why forgiveness is necessary for healing and fulfilling relationships.

CONTEMPLATIVE MANDALAS Via Zoom

Oct. 22 from 10 a.m. - noon

In this workshop, we will explore the simple contemplative steps for growing a mandala. No prior drawing experience is necessary. Because this workshop will be via Zoom, you will need to bring your own supplies. A list is provided on our website at: www.sophiaspiritualitycenter.org. Scroll down to “Retreats,” click on “Program Of ferings” and then scroll down to “Contem plative Mandalas (Zoom).

SHAMROCKS FOR SCHOLARSHIPS FOR ST. PATRICK SCHOOL

Kansas Speedway 400 Speedway Blvd., Kansas City, Kansas Oct. 22 from 6 - 10 p.m.

This event will also honor Msgr. Michael Mullen. Enjoy Jack Stack Barbecue, MeMa’s Bakery, live entertainment, a silent auction, cash raffle and meet emcee Karli Ritter, Fox 4 meteorologist. This is an opportunity to help the students of St. Patrick School. Get tick ets for the event online at: stpatrickkck.org/ shamrocks-for-scholarships, or call Michael at (816) 806-8132.

NPM KEYBOARD WORKSHOP

Visitation Parish 5141 Main St., Kansas City, Missouri Oct. 22 from 9 a.m. - noon

The local chapters of the National As sociation of Pastoral Musicians (NPM) are hosting this keyboard workshop. It is for all church musicians who play a keyboard for liturgy. Organ and piano breakout ses sions will provide instruction to improve your craft from beginners to those building more advanced skills. The suggested do nation is $15 at the door. For more infor mation and to register, go online to: www. npminkc.com.

ANNUAL FALL FESTIVAL

St. Matthew Parish

2700 S.E. Virginia Ave., Topeka

Oct. 22 from 5 - 7 p.m. (after the 4 p.m. Mass) Oct. 23 from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

On Oct. 22, there will be trunk-or-treat and food trucks. On Oct. 23, there will be food, fun and prizes. There will be familyfriendly games and activities, booths sell ing baked goods, religious articles and concessions. There will also be a silent auction; a 50/50 cash raffle and a tradition al turkey dinner ($12 for adults and $6 for seniors and children 10 and under) served from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. For more information or raffle tickets, go online to: fallfestival@ saintmatthews.org.

CRAFT SHOW AND BAKE SALE

Holy Family Parish 820 Birch St., Eudora Oct. 22 from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Oct. 23 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Looking for unique, one-of-a-kind craft items? Find that special item as well as de licious treats. Proceeds from the sale will go to support the parish’s peace, justice and human development programs. Craft ers interested in more information or rent ing a booth space should contact Linda by calling (913) 645-5386 or Melanie by email at: 19dobbins83@gmail.com.

FALL FESTIVAL

Sacred Heart Parish 426 S. Cedar, Ottawa Oct. 23 from noon - 4 p.m.

There will be hamburgers, hot dogs and authentic Mexican food. There will also be a cakewalk, kids games, a balloon artist, a magician and bingo. Fellowship will in clude pumpkin decorating, a selfie photo station and pumpkin sales.

DAUGHTERS OF ISABELLA LITTLE FLOWER CIRCLE Christ the King Parish 5972 S.W. 25th St., Topeka Oct. 23 at 12:40 p.m.

A rosary will be followed by the busi ness meeting and social time. If anyone knows of a member or family member of Daughters of Isabella in need of the cir cle’s prayers, call Diana Ortiz at (785) 5544256 or chancellor Gen Orozco at (985) 213-0347.

ORGAN CONCERT

Hope Lutheran Church 6308 Quivira Rd., Shawnee Oct.23 at 4 p.m.

Dr. Douglas O’Neill, director of forma tion in sacred music and liturgy at Christ the King School in Kansas City, Kansas, will perform the second in a series of the com plete organ works of J.S. Bach.

ST. LEO FALL FESTIVAL

St. Leo Parish (center) 1320 1st Ave. E., Horton Oct. 23 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

There will be a baked potato bar with toppings and various desserts and cob blers. There will also be a pie auction, cow plop, bingo, cookie bazaar, cornhole tour nament and games for the kids.

HEARTACHE TO HEALING

Ricco’s Italian Bistro

11801 College Blvd., Overland Park Oct. 26 at 5 p.m.

This is a support/social group for those widowed early in life. When you come to the restaurant, ask the hostess for our re served table for food, drinks and conver sation. For more information and to RSVP, send an email to Laura at: khaeus1@hotmail. com; Heather at: hmbinpens@gmail.com or Damon at: damon452@yahoo.com. RSVPs are appreciated, but not necessary.

PIZZA DINNER

Most Pure Heart of Mary (Culhane Room)

3601 S.W. 17th St., Topeka Oct. 27 from 5 -7 p.m.

The Christian Widow and Widowers Or ganization will host the pizza dinner. There is no cost to attend. For more information, call (785) 233-7350.

DISCERNMENT RETREAT

Mount St. Scholastica

801 S. 8th St., Atchison Oct. 28 at 5 p.m. - Oct. 30 at 1 p.m.

Is God calling you? The Benedictine Sis ters of Mount St. Scholastica invite women ages 30 - 55 to a discernment retreat. For more information, call or text Sister Marcia Ziska, vocation director, at (913) 370-3733 or send an email to: vacations@mountosb.org.

LINGER OVER BREAKFAST

Avila University (Whitfield Center)

11901 Wornall Rd., Kansas City, Missouri Oct. 29 from 9 -11 a.m.

The presentation will be: “From trauma to transformation with journey to new life” with Sister Rose McLarney, CSJ, founder and board member, and Susie Roling, director of operations. Our friends from Journey to New Life will share how we can join, in action, in healing both our and our neighbors’ lives.

HALLOWEEN DANCE St. Thomas More Parish

11822 Holmes Rd., Kansas City, Missouri Oct. 29 from 7 - 11 p.m.

Beginning Experience of Greater Kansas City will be hosting the dance. Cos tumes are encouraged. There will be food, drinks and fun. For more information, call Maria at (913) 314-9844.

TAKE-A-LOOK THURSDAY

Holy Spirit School

11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park Nov. 10 from 9 -11 a.m.

Come join us for information, tours of the school and refreshments. Choose a learning environment that is welcoming and Christ-centered. Tours of the preschool class es will be offered also. For more information, call Anita Pauls at (913) 492-2582 or send an email to: apauls@hscatholic.org.

THE SHEPHERD’S VOICE

8:30 a.m. Sundays on 92.9 FM and KEXS AM 1090 Encore Monday at 11:30 a.m.

EMPLOYMENT

Nurses and nurse aides - The Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth are currently seeking full- and parttime registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and certified nurse aides at our beautiful long-term care facility. Our private nursing facility offers a quiet and pleasant working environment plus low resident (Sisters only!) to staff ratios! We offer a generous paid time off and benefits package, which includes Blue Cross/Blue Shield health insurance for as low as $90/month! Work 36 hours a week and get paid for 40, plus you’ll receive shift differentials and bonuses! To apply, please email your resume to: recruiting@scls.org or visit our website at: scls. org.

Custodian - Bishop Miege is seeking a FT eveningshift custodian. Hours are M - F, 3:30 p.m. – mid night, with occasional days and weekends. The cus todian will maintain cleanliness of school building and grounds, and ensure a safe and pleasant learn ing environment for students, staff and the public. Duties include, but are not limited to, general house keeping and sanitation duties, event setup and light maintenance. Candidate must be able to navigate stairs, stand for extended periods and lift 50 lbs. regularly. Must have good communication skills and be able to relate positively and cooperatively with staff, students and the community. Send resume to Ryan Wrigley, 5041 Reinhardt Dr., Shawnee Mission KS 66205, or email to: rwrigley@bishopmiege.com.

Parish business manager - St. Ann Parish in Prai rie Village is seeking a full-time business manager to oversee all financial, human resource and other administrative aspects of the parish. The position will have responsibilities for budgeting, financial reporting and cash flow management, as well as managing the human resource and IT functions. The individual will work closely with the pastor, school principal and young child care director regarding financial, human resource and other administrative matters, and positively interact with volunteers and parishioners to support the parish mission. The suc cessful candidate will have a business-related or human resource degree with a working knowledge of accounting principles and practices. The ideal candidate will also be a proactive, team-oriented leader and possess strong communication and in terpersonal skills. The position should have at least five years of demonstrated supervisory experience. A complete job description can be found at: www. stannpv.org. Interested candidates should email a cover letter and resume to Father Craig Maxim at: frcraig@stannpv.org.

Part-time maintenance/custodian - St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee is looking for a part-time main tenance/custodian person. Position is four hours a day and five days a week. Qualified applicants will primarily work in a school and early education envi ronment. Applicants must have similar work history, references, dependable transportation, be Virtustrained or attend a Virtus training, and participate in a background check. Interested applicants should email resumes to: mthomas@stjoeshawnee.org or call (913) 631-0800.

Part-time custodians - Bishop Miege is seeking to hire two part-time night custodial technicians for the north campus facility. One position is M - F, 7 p.m. - 1 a.m.; the second position is Saturday/Sunday, 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. Contact Ryan Wrigley for more information or to apply. Email: rwrigley@bishopmiege.com.

Youth ministry assistant - Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Shawnee is seeking a youth ministry as sistant to support our youth ministry coordinator in helping plan, organize and administer youth ministry and confirmation preparation. This 10hour a week position includes time commitments on Wednesdays from 3:30 – 8 p.m.; Sundays from 6 – 9 p.m.; and 2.5 hours during the week for planning and relational ministry. For a full job de scription and to apply, please go to: https://shoj. org/employment-opportunities.

Accountant - Corpus Christi in Lawrence is seeking a full-time accountant. This position assists in the stewardship of the parish’s financial resources; en sures the effectiveness of financial operations, in forming and advising the parish administration and various parish councils as needed; and performs all financial and accounting tasks in compliance with archdiocesan policies and procedures. This person must have accounting/finance degree or equivalent, three - five years’ experience in accounting-related position. They must also have exceptional comput er skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Excel, QuickBooks and database management. Candi dates should have the ability to multitask, be highly organized, prioritize tasks and pay attention to de tail and accuracy. A full job description can be found at: www.cccparish.org/our-parish/employmentopportunities. Interested applicants should email a resume and cover letter to: jdahlstrand@cccparish. org.

Coaches - Bishop Miege High School is seeking coaches in the following sports for the 2022-23 winter season: assistant bowling, assistant boys wrestling, freshman boys basketball. Contact Joe Schramp, athletic director, at: jschramp@bishopmiege.com or (913) 222-5802.

Full- and part-time policy support center repre sentatives - Americo is seeking full- and part-time support representatives. The policy support cen ter department is the primary point of contact for policy holders calling Americo regarding their life insurance and annuity policies. Full-time hours are Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.- 6 p.m. (Training in-office 6 weeks and hybrid option 3 days in, 2 days re mote). Compensation starts at $19-$20/hour (more for bilingual) and semiannual bonuses. Part-time hours are Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. in-office. Compensation starts at $20/hour. To apply or learn more, go to: https://www.americocareers.com/ and click on “Open Positions” and then click on “Open Positions” again.

Development director - Come be a part of the mission of Catholic Charities as a director of ma jor and planned gifts. Drive major, monthly and planned gift strategies. Prospect, cultivate and engage major supporters of the agency, drive initiatives to engage volunteers and support ers in all fundraising events and in all 21 coun ties served by the agency. To apply, go online to: catholiccharitiesks.org/careers, scroll down to “Job Openings” and then scroll down to: “Director of ma jor and planned gifts.”

Music director - Queen of the Holy Rosary Catho lic Church, Overland Park, a parish of close to 1200 families, is seeking a music director and organist. The director is responsible for a range of ministries includ ing volunteer recruitment and support; musical direc tion of the choir; hand-bell choir; and accompanist responsibilities. The director will collaborate and co ordinate with families on music for weddings and fu nerals. The director must be flexible and demonstrate good collaborative skills with staff and music volun teers. Hours are negotiable. Contact Paul Coquillette for more information or to apply. Email: qhradmin@ qhr-opks.org or call (913) 432-4616.

Children’s ministry coordinator with CGA certi fication Seeking organized and caring individual with administrative skills who enjoys working with both adults and children. If hired, applicant would be responsible for both 1) recruiting, organizing and managing adult and teen volunteers/staff on Sunday mornings and during special church events (e.g. book study, workshops, classes) to expand our hospitality network; and 2) teaching Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (levels 1 or higher) weekly on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday between 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Full time, 32 - 35 hours per week. Must be flexible and able to create a positive environment for children and staff in the spaces available. Eager to work as a team with parish and school staff. Im portant to have good communication skills with both staff team members and parents. Applicant sees co ordinating children’s support as their ministry and as a way to make the church a more welcoming place for young families. Interested applicants, please contact Suzy Meinzenbach, coordinator of religious education, at (913) 338-4367 and/or send resume and cover letter to: Suzy Meinzenbach, Church of the Nativity, 3800 W. 119th St., Leawood, KS 66209.

Assistant director - Prince of Peace Early Educa tion Center is seeking a highly qualified, flexible, resourceful, self-starter for our assistant director. The ideal candidate has previous teaching/admin istrative experience and demonstrates excellent communication skills with staff and parents. Job responsibilities include, but are not limited to: as sisting in supervision and operation of the center; staff schedules; assisting with facilitation of staff and program events; ordering and purchasing sup plies as needed; opening and/or closing the center; acting as director when the director is not present; and assisting with marketing and tours. Job require ments: All applicants must meet the following re quirements in order to be considered for hire: a min imum of six months or more teaching in a licensed child care center with proof of work; have a BA/BS or higher in early childhood education or related field with 12 or more college credit hours in early child hood education. We offer competitive pay. Benefits include: paid vacation and sick time; paid holidays; 401(k) match, and health, vision, dental, life, as well as short- and long-term disability insurance. To ap ply or for more information, call Jamie at (913) 8292718 or email: jwessel@popolathe.org.

Maintenance technician - Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood is looking for a full-time maintenance technician with a strong work ethic. We prefer a candidate with general knowledge in electrical, plumbing, maintenance and grounds keeping. This position also includes setting up for events. A main tenance technician is a thorough professional with attention to detail. The ideal candidate will be able to work autonomously and responsibly. The candi date needs to be able to lift 50 pounds and work on a ladder or lift. All employees are required to be Vir tus trained and background checked. This position may include some weekend and evenings as need ed. Competitive pay, including benefits, vacation/ sick time and 401(k) match. Interested candidates should send a resume to the facilities director at: matt.rocca@cureofars.com.

DSPs needed - Direct care professionals needed in Overland Park in an intentional living community for adults with intellectual disabilities. Training provided. Live-in or live-out options. Weekends, evenings and overnight shifts available now. $13 - $15 per hour. Email: heartland@larcheks.org.

Part-time center coordinator - Regina Caeli Acad emy Home-school Hybrid is hiring a part-time cen ter coordinator. The center coordinator is the local administrator who oversees the day-to-day quality of the classroom instruction, promotes admissions, provides ongoing coaching of the local staff and provides Christian leadership for the local families in Overland Park. Regina Caeli is a private, indepen dent, classical home-school academy operating in the Catholic tradition. Preschool - 12th grade stu dents attend classical academic and extracurricu lar classes two days a week, and home-school the remaining days following lesson plans provided by Regina Caeli. Apply online at: https://rcahybrid. isolvedhire.com/jobs/.

Staff job openings - Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, has the following staff job openings available: admissions counselor; advancement of ficer; business curriculum coordinator and director of strategic enrollment; financial aid counselor and vice-president of business affairs/CFO chief finan cial officer. Find job descriptions and details at: www.donnelly.edu/careers.

Director of liturgy and music - St. Ann Church in Prairie Village is seeking a director of liturgy and music to facilitate worship experiences that cele brate and strengthen our parishioners’ faith journey. This position serves as the principal musician and choir director for the parish and assists the pastor in liturgy planning. The director is responsible for: playing the organ and/or piano at weekend, school and holy day Masses; recruiting and directing adult, children and hand-bell choirs; training cantors; and providing art and environment direction. The direc tor will also assist the pastor and families in planning funerals and weddings. The director must be flexi ble and work well with staff and parishioners. Hours are negotiable. The qualified candidate should be a practicing Catholic; have a bachelor’s degree in mu sic or equivalent program of study; and have prior experience as a music director. Please email your resume with cover letter to: bschafer@stannpv.org.

Faculty and adjunct faculty job openings - Donnel ly College, Kansas City, Kansas, a Catholic college offering higher education for those who may not otherwise be served. Adjunct faculty job openings include: biology; clinical nursing, math; information systems coordinator. Faculty job opening available for the nursing school. Find job descriptions and de tails at: www.donnelly.edu/careers.

Drivers and aides - Assisted Transportation is now hiring safe drivers and aides to transport students with special needs in Johnson, Wyandotte and Clay County, Missouri, in company vans. Drivers earn $14 - $16 per hour. Aides earn $12 per hour. Part-time and full-time schedules available. CDL not required. Retir ees encouraged to apply. Make a difference in your community by helping those in need. Call (913) 5214955 for more information. EEO

Part-time aide - St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Preschool in Leawood is seeking a part-time aide for our 4’s classroom for the 2022-23 school year. This position is Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 8:00-3:30. Teacher aides assist the lead teacher in conducting daily activities, carrying out licensure rules and regulations, and maintaining principles of sound Catholic education. See a full job description at: stmichaelcp.org/employment. Send cover letter and resume to the Preschool Director at: jennie. wente@stmichaelcp.org.

Minster of infant/nursery care - Seeking organized and caring individual with administrative skills who enjoys working with people and children between the ages of 3 months and 4 years. Responsible for organizing and managing nursery teen and adult staff on Sunday. Flexible and able to create a posi tive environment for children and staff in the spaces available. Eager to work as a team with parish and school staff. Important to have good communication skills with both staff team members and parents. Applicant must be trained in Virtus and pass a back ground check before being hired. Part time: 4 hours per week, Sunday mornings 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Required: high school diploma or equivalent; able to lift at least 30 pounds; Virtus trained. Interested applicants, contact Suzy Meinzenbach, coordinator of religious education, at (913) 338-4367 and/or send resume and cover letter to: Suzy Meinzenbach, Church of the Nativity, 3800 W. 119th St., Leawood, KS 66209.

Bilingual counselor needed - The Keeler Women’s Center, located at 759 Vermont Ave., Suite 100-B, in Kansas City, Kansas, is seeking a Spanish-speaking counselor. Please contact Sister Bridget Dickason, OSB, at (913) 689-9375 or email: kwc@mountosb.org.

Stylists needed - Are you addicted to the TV show “Say Yes to the Dress”? Are you self-motivated, love fashion and enjoy helping people look their best? If so, we want to talk to you! Sincerely Susan, a unique des tination shop boutique is a warehouse environment where clients come in by appointment only. You must have a sense of style and a great personality to be able to interact with our “moms.” Hours are flexible. Must be willing to work a minimum of one evening per week and weekends. Must be able to stand and walk on con crete for long periods of time and reach overhead to pull gowns. Previous retail experience preferred, but not necessary. Hourly rate is based on experience. If interested, call (913) 730-8840.

Custodian - The Church of Nativity Catholic Parish School has an immediate opening for a full-time hour ly custodian. Qualified applicants should have prior custodial experience, specifically in a school environ ment, and must be able to work 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. shift with some holiday work expected. Applicants must have compatible work history, references, depend able transportation and be willing to participate in a background check. Compensation of $17 to $19 per hour will depend on experience, negotiable with the right qualifications. The Church of Nativity is located just west of 119th and State Line in Leawood. Nativi ty offers a comprehensive benefit program including medical, dental, vision, vacation and 401(k). Interested applicants should email resumes and work history to: jobapplication@kcnativity.org. Resumes welcome by fax or mail. No phone calls please. Fax: (913) 491-5065; mail to: Church of the Nativity, Attn: Custodial Position, 3800 W. 119th St., Leawood, KS 66209.

Part-time accounting position - Christ the King Church in Kansas City, Kansas, is seeking a part-time employee to handle the accounting functions for the parish. The primary responsibilities will be accounts payable, daily deposits, payroll, and monthly finan cial statements as well as other accounting func tions. Experience with QuickBooks and Microsoft Office Suite is preferred. Compensation will be com mensurate with experience. For a job description and application, go to: www.ctkkcks.org or contact the pastor, Father Nick Blaha, at: nblaha@archkck. org or (913) 336-1550 (call or text).

Caregivers - Daughters & Company is looking for several compassionate caregivers to provide assis tance to seniors in their home, assisted living or in a skilled nursing facility. We provide light housekeep ing/light meal preparation, organizational assistance, care management and occasional transportation ser vices for our clients. We need caregivers with reliable transportation and a cellphone for communication. A CNA background is helpful, though not mandato ry. We typically employ on a part-time basis, but will strive to match up hours desired. Contact Gary or Laurie at (913) 341-2500 if you want to become part of an excellent caregiving team.

Part-time receptionist - St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood, is seeking a part-time receptionist to work two to three days per week from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. This is a job-share position with flexibility to arrange specific workdays with another reception ist. Duties include routing incoming calls, welcom ing guests, scheduling Mass intentions, data entry, database upkeep, and other office duties. The pre ferred candidate will be a practicing Catholic, com passionate, possess excellent communication skills, proficient with Microsoft Office, and comfortable learning new computer skills. Receptionists report to the parish administrator. Pay is based on skills and experience. Additional details at: stmichaelcp. org/employment. Send resume and cover letter to Denise Greene at: denise.greene@stmichaelcp.org.

Early childhood educators – With multiple locations in Johnson County, Special Beginnings Early Learn ing Center provides high quality child care in a safe, loving Christian environment. Our classrooms are full, and we are looking to add to our amazing team. We are looking for both full-time and part-time teachers for all ages of children. If you have an excellent work ethic, a heart for children and a willingness to learn more about early childhood education, we would love to meet you. For more information or to apply, call Carolyn Andruss at (913) 894-0131, ext. 102.

Volunteer Engagement coordinator - Are you com passionate, motivated, mission-driven and desire to empower others? Do you have experience with vol unteer coordination? Catholic Charities is seeking a volunteer engagement coordinator to serve on our volunteer engagement team and assist with our re cruiting and on-boarding initiatives for the 21+ pro grams at Catholic Charities. To learn more or apply, Visit: catholiccharitiesks.org/careers/.

Part-time director of catechesis - Christ the King Parish in Kansas City, KS is seeking a part-time director of sacramental formation. Basic Span ish skills preferred. The role is responsible for the Catholic faith formation of families through regular catechesis. The goal of this catechesis is to form catechists and parish leaders to share their faith and knowledge in a way that offers people an en counter with the risen Lord Jesus. Compensation negotiable. Experience with Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a plus. For a job description and appli cation go to: www.ctkkcks.org or contact the pastor, Father Nick Blaha, at: nblaha@archkck.org or (913) 336-1550 (call or text).

Early childhood position - Wonderful opportunity for adults interested in working with young children! Catholic preschool seeks caring individuals to work with children in our three-year-olds classes. Position is part time. Great working conditions and immedi ate benefits. Call Ms. Theresa, director, at (913) 2484589, or email: tgavila@stjoeshawnee.org.

Teacher - Teacher needed to fill a position in St. Jo seph, Shawnee, Early Education Center with the twoand-a-half year olds. Related experience is preferred, and candidate must meet state and local require ments. Submit resume to: tgavila@stjoeshawnee.org. Questions? Call (913) 248-4589, ext. 4589.

>> Classifieds continue on page 13

Extended daycare position - Holy Spirit Catholic School in Overland Park is seeking an enthusiastic person to be the group leader in our after-school care program. This well-established program runs from 35:45 p.m. each school day. We are looking for a faithfilled, responsible, organized and creative person. Ap plicants should have knowledge of child development and be able to implement age-appropriate activities. The ability to communicate clearly with children, colleagues and parents is most important in order to foster positive relationships. Applicants must at tend Virtus training, ongoing childcare training and be at least 18 years old. Contact Tessa Piscitello at (913) 492-2582 or email: tpiscitello@hscatholic.org for more information.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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) 5791835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.

Local handyman - Painting int. and ext., wood rot, masonry (chimney repair), gutter cleaning (gutter covers), dryer vent cleaning, sump pump (replace, add new), windows, doors (interior and exterior) honey-do list, window cleaning and more! Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 9274118.

Popcorn ceiling texture removal

Interior painting

Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144. 30 years’ experience.

Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.

Gearing up for spring! We now offer financing on all your home improvement projects with approved credit. Here is a list of the construction services I offer: flooring; tile; interior/exterior painting, as well as deck and fence staining; ceiling scraping/re-tex turing; bathroom, kitchen and basement remodeling; siding; decks and covered porches. We also do cab inet refinishing! Look me up on Facebook at “Father & Son Home Exteriors & Remodeling.” I work on all jobs, no subcontractors. Thank you to all my clients! (913) 709-7230.

Concrete construction - Tear out and replace stamped, stained or colored patios and drives. Re taining walls, footings, poured-in-place safe rooms, excavation and hauling. Asphalt drives and lots. Ful ly insured; references. Call Dan at (913) 207-4371 or send an email to: dandeeconst@aol.com.

SERVICES

Tutoring - for K - Adult. Sessions are fun and mean ingful. For more information please call Kathleen at (913) 206-2151 or email: Klmamuric@yahoo.com.

Masonry work - Quality new or repair work. Brick, block and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; secondgeneration bricklayer. Member of St. Paul Parish, Olathe. Call (913) 271-0362.

Free estimates - We are offering free estimates to all those thinking about painting this year. At Stone Painting, we put the customer first. We provide inte rior, exterior house painting along with deck staining, fence painting, etc. Stone Painting ensures a profes sional, clean and fair-priced job. Call today for your free estimate. (913) 963-6465.

ACT Prep Founded by a Bishop Miege graduate, Pathway Prep has helped over 250 students during the last four years improve their scores. In-person or virtual sessions available. For more information, visit: pathwayprepkc.com and contact Alex Pint at (913) 991-8217 or: alex@pathwayprepkc.com.

Mike Hammer local moving - A full-service mover. Packing, pianos, rental truck load/unload, storage container load/unload, and in-home moving. No job too small. Serving JoCo since 1987. St. Joseph, Shaw nee, parishioner. Call Mike at (913) 927-4347 or send an email to: mike@mikehammermoving.com.

Handyman - Home repair; skilled labor; remodeling; handyman work done in a timely manner. References available on request. Call Jeff Mauk at (913) 915-4738.

Catholic counseling - For individuals, couples, fam ilies, adolescents and young adults. Sam Meier, MA, LPC. Call (913) 952-2267 or book an appointment at: StillwatersKC.com, in-person or Telehealth.

Memory quilts - Preserve your memories in a keep sake quality quilt, pillows, etc. Custom designed from your T-shirt collection, baby clothes, sports memora bilia, neckties . . . Quilted Memories. (913) 649-2704.

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.

WANTED TO BUY

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 Sa cred Heart Parish, Shawnee.

Wanted to buy - Antique/vintage jewelry, paintings, pottery, sterling, etc. Single pieces or estate. Renee Maderak, (913) 475-7393. St. Joseph Parish, Shaw nee.

Thinking about downsizing? - Just want to get some stuff gone? I am always buying: old jewelry; old coins; pocket watches; pocketknives; old trains; crocks; oil lamps; old toys; glassware; old clocks; old fans; Coca Cola items and spool cabinets. Most old items consid ered. Call Patricia at (913) 515-2950.

Wanted to buy - Do you have a car or truck that you need to get rid of? If you do, CALL ME! I’m a cash buyer. We’re Holy Trinity parishioners. My name is Mark. (913) 980-4905.

REAL ESTATE

We buy houses and whole estates - We are local and family owned, and will make you a fair cash offer. We buy houses in any condition. No fees or commis sions and can close on the date of your choice. Sell ing your house has never felt so good. Jon & Stacy Bichelmeyer (913) 599-5000.

WE WANT TO BUY YOUR HOUSE - There are so many new companies in town advertising to buy houses. But we’re the only ones that have been here and we’re local Holy Trinity parishioners. I will give you a fair price on any conditions you are up against. Call Mark Edmondson. (913) 980-4905.

FOR SALE

Residential lifts - New and recycled. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. St. Michael’s parishio ners. KC Lift & Elevator at (913) 327-5557. (Formerly Silver Cross - KC).

For sale - Double marble niche at Resurrection Cem etery in Lenexa. Located in Prince of Peace, Queen of Saints, tier H2, niche 715. Conveyance fee included. Valued at $6185, asking $5000. Call (913) 908-1373 or by email at: rjdubs@hotmail.com.

CAREGIVING

Family member with dementia or need help at home? - We specialize in helping seniors live SAFE LY at home, where they want to live! We also offer free dementia training and resources for families and caregivers. Benefits of Home - Senior Care, www. Benefitsofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591.

Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, com panionship, care management, and transportation for seniors in their home, assisted living or nursing facilities. We also provide respite care for main care givers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Laurie, Pat or Gary.

Caregiver - CMA available evenings. 15 years expe rience. Background check and references available. Call (913)999-4340.

PILGRIMAGE

Pilgrimage to Medjugorje - March 14 - 22, 2023. The cost is $2500 per person, which includes airfare, bus transportation, accommodations, two meals per day and daily local guides. Hosted by visionary Mirjana Sol do. For details, call Grace Legaspi at (913) 449-1806.

SOLUTION

DAILY READINGS

TWENTY-NINTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME

Oct. 16

TWENTY-NINTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

Ex 17: 8-13

Ps 121: 1-8

2 Tm 3:14 – 4:2

Lk 18: 1-8

Oct. 17

Ignatius of Antioch, bishop, martyr

Eph 2: 1-10

Ps 100: 1b-5

Lk 12: 13-21

Oct. 18

LUKE, EVANGELIST

2 Tm 4: 10-17b

Ps 145: 10-13, 17-18

Lk 10: 1-9

Oct. 19

John de Brébeuf and Isaac Jogues, priests, and companions, martyrs

Eph 3: 2-12

(Ps) Is 12: 2-3, 4b-6

Lk 12: 39-48

Oct. 20

Paul of the Cross, priest

Eph 3: 14-21

Ps 33: 1-2, 4-5, 11-12, 18-19

Lk 12: 49-53

Oct. 21 Friday

Eph 4: 1-6

Ps 24: 1-4b, 5-6

Lk 12: 54-59

Oct. 22

John Paul II, pope

Eph 4: 7-16

Ps 122: 1-5

Lk 13: 1-9

Igettickled when people ask, “Do you play any musi cal instruments?”

The first answer that pops into my mind is “the Flutophone,” which was part of my early grade school years. I’m sure that my parents — and the neighbors — were driven to tears while I endlessly played “Lightly Row” on it.

But my answer to the question is: “Yes, I play the tamburitza.” As they stare blankly, I say, “Now, don’t tell me you’ve never heard of the national stringed instrument of Croatia!”

People rarely have. During my grade school and high school years, I belonged to the St. John’s Catholic Club Tamburitzans. The specific instrument I played was the “prim” (pronounced “preem”), the smallest tambu ritza and similar to a mandolin. Besides the

It’s music to my ears

performed on Radio Zagreb.

MARK MY WORDS

FATHER

MARK GOLDASICH

Father Mark is the pastor of Sa cred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie. He has been editor of The Leaven since 1989.

skill of learning to read and memorize music, we Tamburitzans became acquainted with the culture of our grandparents. We sang in Croatian and did traditional kolos (circle dances). But our rep ertoire also included songs and dances from many other cultures

and musical styles.

We even cut six albums — yes, LPs. (As a side note, I appear on the cover of the fourth album, “Ljepa Jela” (“Beautiful Helen”), serenading Monica Yadrich under a willow tree in Loose Park. Thankfully, very few people recognize the younger me there!)

The Tamburitzans presented many concerts around the Kansas City area and nationally. I was part of the first group that traveled to Cro atia, where we even

I say all of this to commend profession al musician Ashley Stanfield and St. Agnes School in Roeland Park, our front-page story, for offering violin lessons to the students there. Giving up time after school to learn to read music and become proficient in playing a musical instrument will pay dividends for years to come and add beauty not only to the stu dents’ lives, but to all who will listen to them play.

Stanfield, who belongs to the string quartet Opus 76, is part of the Candlelight music series. Although I’ve not seen her per form, I did attend my first Candlelight con cert on Sept. 7 at the Gem Theater in Kansas City, Missouri, featur ing the Fountain City String Quartet playing

the music of Coldplay. The hourlong perfor mance, lit by hundreds of (battery-powered) candles, was beautiful and mesmerizing. What’s captivating about watching live music is not only lis tening to the melodies, but watching the body language of the musi cians, seeing how the music envelops them.

There’s more infor mation about Candle light performances at the website listed on page 4. Tickets are affordable and would make an ideal gift.

Why is music so important to life? Mar tin Luther said it well: “Beautiful music is the art of the prophets that can calm the agitations of the soul; it is one of the most magnificent and delightful presents God has given us.”

Go ahead, unwrap one of those presents now!

Let the Scriptures’ wisdom transform your daily life ,

Some years ago, I visited the Church of San Luigi dei France si in Rome.

There, three re markable paintings by the Italian Baroque master Caravaggio can be seen in a single sacred space known as the Contarelli Chapel. The three chapel walls are covered with large baroque paintings that follow the dramatic life story of St. Matthew, one of the four evange lists who was a disciple of Jesus.

IGNATIUS OF ANTIOCH c.37-c.107

This Syrian-born martyr, who gave himself the nickname “God-bearer” because of his certain ty of God’s presence within him and who may have been a disciple of St. John the Evangelist, became bishop of An tioch about 69. Eventu ally, he was arrested and sent to Rome, where his strong desire for martyr dom was fulfilled when he was thrown to the lions in the Colosseum.

In seven letters written to Christians in Asia Minor and Rome, he stressed the need to heal church conflicts, the authority of local bishops and the Eucharist as a source of unity.

The central painting titled “The Inspiration of St. Matthew” shows the saint sitting at his writing desk as he turns to encounter a large guiding angel hovering nearby. The painting on the right

depicts the martyrdom of Matthew who, like many of the apostles, was called to the ultimate sacrifice of his life for his faith in Jesus.

But it is the painting on the left that draws

the crowds since it is among the most wellknown of Caravaggio’s masterpieces.

In this third work of unrivaled artistic genius, Caravaggio captures the dramatic moment when Mat thew receives the call of Jesus who invites him to become his mis sionary disciple.

In that dramatic conversion moment, recounted in Chap ter 9 of the Gospel of Matthew, we are told only that Jesus saw a

man named Matthew sitting at his tax collec tor’s desk and said to him, “Follow me.” And Matthew got up and followed him.

Caravaggio paints Jesus stretching out his right hand in a gesture that parallels Michelangelo’s depic tion of God reaching out to breathe life into Adam, painted on the Sistine Chapel ceiling. Jesus’ word is a life-giving word that transforms Matthew from a tax collector to a faithful apostle of the Lord.

The profound and powerful word of Jesus conveyed the power of God’s grace to convert the mind and heart of Matthew for a life of discipleship.

Jesus in and through

his word and sacrament continues to call each one of us to new life in him by the power of his divine word. Both the call and the grace to live as a disciple of Jesus are found in the powerful word of God.

In the Gospel, Jesus invites us to persevere in remaining close to him who is the Word of God made flesh, as we read the Scriptures and let its wisdom transform our lives each day.

Like the judge in the Gospel parable, Jesus attends to those who love his word and turn to him day and night.

Let us resolve to persevere daily in the wisdom of God’s word as we pray, “Speak to me, Lord.”

True discernment requires knowing oneself, pope says

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — To know oneself is a gift and a grace that allows Christians to properly dis cern between feelings and convic tions, Pope Francis said.

During his weekly general au dience in St. Peter’s Square Oct. 5, the pope said that know ing oneself requires “patient soul-searching” and the awareness of one’s “way of acting, of the feelings that

dwell within us. It also requires that we distinguish between emotions and spiritual faculties,” he said. “‘I feel’ is not the same as ‘I am convinced.’ ‘I feel like’ is not the same as ‘I want.’ Thus, we come to recognize that the view we have of ourselves and of reality is at times somewhat distorted. To realize this is a grace!”

Continuing his series of talks about discernment, the pope reflect ed on the element of self-knowledge that is crucial in discovering what

one truly wants or needs in his or her life.

The pope explained that at times it is difficult to discern the path for one’s life “because we do not know ourselves well enough. You have heard many times: ‘But that person, why doesn’t he or she sort out their life?’” he said, departing from his prepared remarks. It “happens to us too that when we do not know clear ly what we want, we do not know ourselves well.”

JEM SULLIVAN

Sullivan is a professor at The Catholic University of America.

Are you intentional about making holiness a priority?

As a lifelong Notre Dame football fan, I have always been intrigued by the sign in the team’s locker room that says, “Play Like a Champion Today.”

An 18-year-old freshman may not be the next Joe Montana or Paul Hornung, but this is his day, not theirs. He hopes to be a worthy successor of those who went before him, and so he resolves to play his very best today. As he walks out onto the play ing field, he touches the sign as if to say, “Amen.”

When my children were younger, our bed rooms were all upstairs,

ORDAINED TO SERVE

LEON SUPRENANT

Leon Suprenant is the co-di rector of the Office of the Per manent Diaconate. He may be reached at leons@archkck.org.

and at the base of the staircase I placed a sign that said, “Live Like a Saint Today.”

As we emerged from our rooms and began our day, we realized we were not a family of heroic saints, like St. Thérèse’s family. Yet this was our life, not theirs. We knew that God calls everybody without exception to become saints and that

God created us for this moment in history. As we clambered down the stairs for breakfast, we would all enthusiasti cally hit the sign as if to say, “Amen.”

Heroic intentions are a great start, but they will only get us so far. There is another team trying to win! For the Notre Dame freshman, maybe it’s the USC Trojans. For follow ers of Christ, there is Satan and his “team” of demons.

Not only that, we’re not always the best “players” we can be because of the lingering effects of sin. Further more, perhaps at one time being a Christian

in the world was more of a “home game,” but now it’s decidedly a road game played out in a most hostile environ ment.

Fortunately, there are some tried and true ways to prepare for the big game: Know the playbook. How well do I know Scripture and the teach ings of the church?

Practice. Am I trying to develop good habits and skills? We call them virtues.

Coaching and teamwork. Do I have a spiritual director or mentor? Do I seek out Christian friends who will support me and hold me accountable?

Game plan. Do I just walk out onto the “field” with a “whatever” approach, or am I in tentional about making holiness a priority?

Pregame meal. Am I careful about what I put into my body (including music and images)? Above all, do I frequent ly and devotedly turn to the Eucharist as my principal source of nourishment?

Our life in Christ is much more than a game. It’s a vital rela tionship with the living God. But I think the Lord expects the same sort of effort from us. As St. Paul would say, “play so as to win” (see 1 Cor 9: 23-27).

Preparations for annual appeal begin early, and rely on many

We are all accus tomed to the Arch bishop’s Call to Share (ACTS) being rolled out in our parishes each January and February.

Each year on the feast of the Baptism of the Lord, we listen to a homily by Archbishop Naumann that asks us to give to this worthy cause. But, the prepara tions for the ACTS ap peal begin long before that Sunday. It involves many people who take great care to create the message and determine how your gifts will be used to honor and glori fy the Lord.

The first group I’d like to recognize is the Clergy Advisory

YES TO THE CALL

BILL MALONEY

Bill Maloney is the executive director of the archdiocesan office of stewardship and de velopment. You can email him at: wmaloney@archkck.org.

Committee. The arch bishop appoints a group of priests who serve three-year terms to assist in planning

each year’s appeal. The priests represent all the archdiocesan regions and come from parishes in the urban core, the suburbs and our rural communities.

The Clergy Adviso ry Committee rep resents what ACTS is all about. It is about all our parishes coming together to support

ministries serving the faithful throughout the church of northeast Kansas. Father Anthony Oullette, pastor of Holy Name Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, chairs the committee. Also joining the committee are: Father Andrew Strobl, Holy Spirit, Overland Park; Father Matthew Schiffelbein, Christ the King, Topeka; Father Bill Bruning, Queen of the Holy Rosary, Overland Park; Father Dan Gardner, St. Ann in Hiawatha and St. Leo, Horton; and Father Quentin Schmitz, St. Gregory in Marysville and St. Malachy, Beattie. Their service and input are greatly valued.

Another unsung group that plays a

vital role in the appeal each year is the ACTS Allocation Committee.

Clergy and laity from across the archdiocese make up the committee. Their part is to review the budgets submitted by the 40 ministries supported by your gifts to ACTS and determine the allocations for the coming fiscal year.

The archdiocesan stewardship and devel opment office coordi nates the appeal. Geri Nickels leads the annual appeal, supported by Christina Megee, Candi Scanlon and Marcea Brown. They are essen tial in assisting with our data and handling phone calls and emails from our donors.

ACTS also receives

strong support from our priests. They play an important role by promoting ACTS and devoting time each year to conduct the appeal during Mass. The appeal’s success heavily depends on our priests who understand the importance of the ministries supported by your gifts. Thank you, pastors!

The archdiocese is blessed with many loyal donors who have made a gift for over 25 con secutive years. Every gift makes a difference. Thank you for being so supportive, and we invite you to consider a gift to the Archbish op’s Call to Share in the coming years.

Amendment defeat calls for more advocacy — and more prayer

Thedefeat of the “Value Them

Both” state constitutional amendment is cause for mourning — and pres ents new opportunities.

Many are rightful ly asking of the vote: “What happened?”

The short explanation is that the U.S. Supreme Court’s Dobbs case ruling overturning Roe v. Wade ignited abortion industry supporters and their secular media allies in a campaign of lies. Last minute “dark money” flowing in from out-ofstate overwhelmed the message of life.

Thank you to all who defended the lives of preborn babies and worked to protect wom en from the predatory abortion industry. On

CHUCK WEBER

Chuck Weber is the executive director of the Kansas Catholic Conference.

behalf of the Kansas Catholic bishops, please know that we will never abandon moms and their babies.

Efforts moving forward must be rooted in prayer. Our struggle is first and foremost

CHURCH AND STATE

pregnancy often share the common emotion of terror. The abortion industry has convinced far too many with the disgraceful lie that ter minating a pregnancy is “the answer.”

this loving, life-giving alternative (including postabortive care).

PRCs can be located by utilizing the website at: www.HelpingKansas Women.org.

Catholic Conference is exploring expanded access to pregnancy resource centers, mater nity homes and similar life-affirming resources.

spiritual. We consecrat ed efforts for “Value Them Both” to Our Lady of Guadalupe, Patroness of the Unborn. She will not abandon us, her children.

We must also do more to help women ex periencing unplanned pregnancies. Coming from diverse back grounds and circum stances, women con fronting an unplanned

Secular media outlets are now reporting that the Kansas abortion industry cannot keep up with the increased demand for pregnancy terminations. Sadly, this was expected. A new abortion facility recently opened in metro Kansas City. Will more follow?

The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is encouraging 100% parish participation in the Walking with Moms in Need initiative (www.walkingwith moms.com). Pregnan cy resource centers (PRCs) are a key part of

Not content with unrestricted and virtu ally unlimited abortion under Kansas law, the abortion industry is now taking aim at preg nancy resource cen ters. News reports by abortion industry allies in the secular press are planting seeds of decep tion and doubt about the mission and legitimacy of PRCs. Why is the abortion industry terri fied of grassroots efforts of help for women expe riencing an unplanned pregnancy? Lost profits, perhaps?

On the legislative front, the Kansas

Furthermore, we will hold the abortion industry and secular news media accountable for assurances made during the “Value Them Both” campaign that the Kansas abortion industry is already “heavily regulated.”

Will existing common sense Kansas abortion laws be challenged? Time will tell.

Despite the daily tragedy of abortion that is unfolding before us, we must strive to be a people of joy. If we can not protect women and their preborn children with the law, we must do it with persevering love.

‘SOMEWHERE TO CALL HOME ’

Donnelly student-pilgrim finds kindred spirit in Rwandan genocide survivor

By Lindsey Weishar and Aline Mukobwa Special to The Leaven

KANSAS

CITY, Kan. — When Immaculée Ilibagiza spoke on Donnelly College’s campus here in November 2021, little did she know she’d meet a student familiar with her home country of Rwanda.

Aline Mukobwa, along with the rest of her Donnelly College peers, had read Ilibagiza’s “Left to Tell,” a moving and miraculous account of surviving the Rwandan genocide of the mid-1990s.

Each school year, Donnelly faculty, staff and students participate in the Common Read, a book read across the college. The Common Read is attached to a series of events throughout the school year such as film viewings, student panels and off-campus speak ers, including a talk from the Common Read author.

Listening to Ili bagiza speak was a moving experience for Mukobwa.

“Meeting Immac ulée Ilibagiza was an unexpected, yet amazing, experience and one of the greatest blessings I could have ever imagined,” she said. “The humility she exhibited taught me the importance of always being humble.”

Nine months later, Mukobwa had the opportunity of a lifetime: to ac company Ilibagiza and other travelers on a pilgrimage to Kibeho, a Marian apparition site in Rwanda. (To learn more about this first Vatican-approved Marian apparition site in Africa, see Ilibagiza’s “Our Lady of Kibeho: Mary Speaks to the World from the Heart of Africa.”)

On this pilgrimage, Mukobwa, who comes from a Protestant background, experienced Mass for the first time.

“Going to Mass every morning changed the way I view prayer,” she reflected. “Having the chance to talk to the Lord a few times a day grew my re lationship with God.”

Every morning opened with a Mass in Ilibagiza’s home chapel, which set the tone of prayerfulness that permeat ed each day of the pilgrimage. As Mu kobwa put it, “Having Mass as our first activity of the day taught me to always put God first.”

Pilgrims also had the opportunity to walk the Way of the Rosary of the Seven Sorrows of the Virgin Mary and to

attend Mass in the Church of Our Lady of Sorrows. Mukobwa was present at Kibeho for the solemnity of the As sumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and remembers the sheer number of pilgrims who gathered to reverence Our Lady.

She wrote: “In the days leading up to the feast of the Assumption, people came from all over the world. These people spent three days outside. In the

course of the feast, they walked bare foot. In addition, we walked to the holy water during this time (a place locat ed on the Kibeho pilgrimage site from which pilgrims can get water). This long journey was undertaken by chil dren, young adults and even elderly individuals in order to obtain a taste of the water. In speaking with the people around me, I found that everyone ex pressed a sense of relief and comfort after drinking the water. This is exactly what I experienced as well. This whole experience brought an endless joy to my heart. Having the belief to take on this journey — especially because some pilgrims were sick and the path was steep and rocky — can make anyone’s faith stronger.”

Ilibagiza also took pilgrims to the small bathroom in her hometown of Kibuye in which she, along with seven other women, hid for 91 days during the genocide of 1994, as well as to the Kigali Genocide Memorial.

“Walking into the Kigali Genocide Memorial had to be one of the most dif ficult moments in my entire life,” Mu kobwa recalled. “Reading the stories of those who were killed — and how they were killed — was incredibly horrific.” Both Ilibagiza’s personal memorial

of the genocide and the national memo rial represent a dedication to always remembering the past and honoring both those killed and those who live on.

The pilgrimage was powerful for Mukobwa not only because of the prayerfulness of the experience or the importance of the religious and histor ical sites the pilgrims visited, but be cause Rwanda is a part of Mukobwa’s own story.

Born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 2001, Mukobwa moved with her family to a refugee camp in Rwanda at the age of 5 due to war in her birthplace. Once in Rwanda, her family soon had to move to a camp in Uganda — this time due to a lack of jobs.

While in this camp, both of her par ents became sick and had to go to sep arate countries for treatment, while Mukobwa stayed behind to care for two younger siblings.

“Basically, I was an adult at eight years old,” she said.

Unfortunately, Mukobwa and her siblings were not treated with kindness in the camp. In “Left to Tell,” Ilibagiza details the history of colonial powers that divided two groups of people in

PHOTO BY ALINE MUKOBWA

Pilgrims travel to Kibeho, a Marian apparition site in Rwanda. Donnelly College student Aline Mukobwa was able to make the pilgrimage with Immaculée Ilibagiza (in back in blue dress), a survivor of the Rwandan genocide of the mid-1990s.

OUR NEIGHBORS IN THE CAMP WOULD OFTEN THREATEN US. I REMEMBER ONE OF MY NEIGHBORS

SHOWING ME HIS DAD’S MACHETE AND SAYING THAT HIS DAD WOULD USE IT TO KILL MY FAMILY.

ALINE MUKOBWA DONNELLY COLLEGE STUDENT ON HER TIME IN A RWANDAN REFUGEE CAMP

PHOTO BY ALINE MUKOBWA

Pilgrims attend Mass in the Church of Our Lady of Sorrows in Kibeho on the solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Aline Mukobwa