11 08 19 Vol. 41 No. 14

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 41, NO. 14 | NOVEMBER 8, 2019

MENDING THE SAFETY NET

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Students at St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Overland Park play a game of rock, paper, scissors as a team building exercise as part of a program designed to build the connections that help prevent suicide, bullying and substance abuse among young people.

Social media can spell social nightmares for lonely teens

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

O

VERLAND PARK — Don’t let the upbeat energy radiating from the photo above fool

you.

Students at St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Overland Park were gathered to combat the second-leading cause of death among kids 14 years old to college age — suicide.

Aquinas academic principal Brian Schenck has seen a rise in the number of challenges to student health even since he’s started there.

“We’re trying to get the kids to understand what resilience is about,” explained Schenck, “and to understand the strengths that are present in their life to get through tough situations so they don’t feel overwhelmed.”

With that goal in mind, some 70 students and nine staff members took part in training for the evidence-based, student-led program Sources of Strength, which encourages students to draw from various areas in their lives for strength during difficult times.

The program is designed to prevent suicide, bullying and substance abuse among young people.

During the training held on Oct. 28 and 29, students and staff members participated in community building games and a group discussion. They will continue, now, to meet monthly to brainstorm ideas that get the entire school involved in campaigns designed to connect the students.

Its implementation at Aquinas couldn’t be timelier for a

>> See “ANXIOUS” on page 4

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

During a training session held on Oct. 29, students and staff members at St. Thomas Aquinas participated in community building games and a group discussion as part of the Sources of Strength program, which is designed to help students through difficult times.

NOVEMBER 8, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

ARCHBISHOP

2

Under Matheny’s leadership, future looks bright for Royals

D

o you think Mike Matheny is the right choice to manage the

Royals?

I have had that question posed to me several times since the Royals announced Ned Yost’s successor.

For some Royals’ fans, Matheny has two strikes against him: 1) He was fired from his previous managerial post; and 2) Even worse, he managed the St. Louis Cardinals.

While it is true that the Cardinals let Matheny go midseason in 2018 when the team appeared destined to miss the playoffs for the third consecutive year, nevertheless, Matheny’s overall record with St. Louis was impressive.

Under Matheny’s leadership, the Cardinals made the playoffs his first four seasons, winning the division championship three times and the National League pennant once. In his 6½ years as manager, his

Baptisms for children of larger families To show his personal support for those couples open to raising larger families, Archbishop Naumann has offered to celebrate the baptism of the third or greater child of any family interested. Please contact your parish office for more information.

Additional information is also available from the archdiocesan office for liturgy and sacramental life at (913) 647-0330 or by email at: liturgy@ archkck.org.

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN teams won 591 games while losing 474.

During Matheny’s tenure, the Cardinals averaged winning 90 games per season, hitting a high water mark in 2015 with 100 victories.

When the Cardinals hired Matheny, it was also controversial. While he was a well-respected major league catcher, his only managerial experience was being a successful Little League manager. Matheny’s playing career was cut short as a consequence of a severe concussion injury.

When he was approached by some parents to coach a Little League team in St. Louis, he asked to meet with all the players’ parents to inform them of his expectations if he assumed this role.

Matheny had a code of conduct for his players that included: 1) never showing any displeasure with an umpire’s call; 2) a good attendance record for practices as well as games; and 3) a good work ethic evidenced by effort displayed in practices and games.

Matheny also had expectations for the parents

NEED HELP HEALING FROM A PAST ABORTION?

Call or text 913-621-2199 Compassionate, Confidential, Free

ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN Nov. 8-14 U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops meeting — Baltimore

Mike Matheny’s MLB statistics

Nov. 15 Women of Nativity event — Church of the Nativity, Leawood

PLAYER STATS Batting average .239 Home runs 67 Runs batted in 443 MANAGERIAL RECORD 591–474 TEAMS AS PLAYER Milwaukee Brewers (1994–1998) Toronto Blue Jays (1999) St. Louis Cardinals (2000–2004) San Francisco Giants (2005–2006)

as well. He would not entertain any complaints from parents about their son’s playing time or position assignments.

He expected parents to model good conduct for the boys by showing respect for umpires and coaches. He also made clear to parents that the goal of the team was not to entertain them, but to help their sons develop baseball skills and knowledge, and, even more importantly, to cultivate virtues. Matheny devoted one-third of every practice to teaching virtues to his young players.

Managing major league athletes and Little Leaguers is quite different. Being successful in teaching young boys baseball skills and virtue does not necessarily

Nov. 16 Mass — St. Ann, Prairie Village St. Lawrence Divine WineFest — Fiorella’s, Overland Park

New Royals manager Mike Matheny played 13 seasons as a catcher for the Milwaukee Brewers, Toronto Blue Jays, St. Louis Cardinals and San Francisco Giants. He also managed the Cardinals from 2012-18. translate into being a successful major league manager.

However, I believe personal integrity and principled leadership result in long-term success in any field of endeavor.

The success Matheny enjoyed in St. Louis bodes well for the Royals. Actually, I anticipate Matheny will be an even more successful manager in Kansas City because of what he learned from his successes and, more importantly, his mistakes in St. Louis.

Leo Durocher is reputed to have said: “Nice guys finish last!” I never agreed with that

philosophy. Instead, I believe principled leadership breeds success.

Dayton Moore and Mike Matheny are both men with a deep Christian faith that guides their leadership styles.

With the commitment and enthusiasm of the new ownership, with Dayton Moore’s track record of effective leadership in building a winning culture and championship team, and with Matheny’s leadership on the field, the future looks bright for the Royals.

Spring training is just around the corner. I am hoping in the not too distant future for another I-70 World Series!

Nov. 17 Mass — St. Ann, Prairie Village Baptism of third or more child — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas Nov. 18 “Shepherd’s Voice” recording Confirmation — St. Boniface, Scipio; St. Therese, Richmond Nov. 19 Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas new member meet and greet Retired Priests meeting Administrative Team meeting

Confirmation — Sacred Heart, Mound City; St. Philip Neri, Osawatomie; and Our Lady of Lourdes, La Cygne

ANNUAL GOLUMBKI DINNER IN LEAVENWORTH

T

he St. Casimir Men’s Society will host its Annual Golumbki Dinner on Sunday, November 24th, in the St. Casimir Parish Hall at 719 Pennsylvania Avenue in Leavenworth. Dinner will be served from noon to 3 p.m. Takeout will be available beginning 11 a.m. Tickets cost only $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. Come join your friends in Leavenworth for this traditional Polish feast. Meatloaf will also be served.

AD COURTESY OF DOUG SCALARD, CFP®

NOVEMBER 8, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

3

CEF breaks cycle of poverty with the gift of education

By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org

O

VERLAND PARK — This year, the Catholic Education Foundation (CEF) provided scholarships enabling more than 1,400 students living in poverty to attend Catholic schools.

“Our students learn about Jesus every day,” said CEF board chair Derek Teeter as he welcomed patrons to the organization’s annual fundraiser, Gaudeamus.

“With your help,” he said, “we are bringing the word of Christ to these youth.”

Gaudeamus featured Christa Dubill, 41 Action News, as the The CEF needs master of cermore than $2.3 emonies and million to fund proved to be scholarships this worthy of its year. There is a rating as one waiting list of stuof the top dents needing asfive events in sistance. To find Kansas City. out how you can CEF exechelp, go online to: utive director www.cefks.org.

Vince Anch thanked attendees “on behalf of all the children and families you support.”

He also recognized Blake Mulvany, instrumental in the development of CEF, who passed away this past summer.

The event kicked off with a touching video featuring a family that fell on hard times and needed assistance to keep their children in Catholic school.

When the CEF offered scholarships, the children said their mother “cried so hard because she knew the scholarships would allow us to stay at Catholic school.”

In addition to giving disadvantaged youth a faith-based education, CEF-sponsored Catholic schools strive for excellence in academics that provide a pathway out of poverty.

On average, 97% of scholarship recipients attending Catholic high school go on to college, compared to only 47% in their local public schools.

That fact was illustrated when Bishop Ward High School student and CEF scholarship recipient Aliana Rodriguez told her story.

Rodriguez is actively involved in life at Bishop Ward in Kansas City, Kansas.

She plays volleyball, basketball and softball; she is a member of the pep club and treasurer of her senior class.

She talked compassionately about her single mother working two jobs to afford a Catholic education for her and her siblings.

“She has never given up on her belief in Catholic education and the values it brings to life socially, academically and spiritually,” she said.

Rodriguez told the audience that without the generosity of CEF donors, she could not have attended Bishop Ward.

“The scholarship I received means the world to me,” she said. “It changed the course of my life.”

During her freshman year, Rodriguez

It’s not too late to help

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CATHOLIC EDUCATION FOUNDATION

Master of ceremonies Christa Dubill of 41 Action News sits down with Angela Rodriguez and her daughters Michaela Valdivieso and Aliana Rodriguez to talk about what CEF has meant to them. was thrown into a crisis of faith when her younger brother Vincent died from complications after an asthma attack.

“I cried and couldn’t eat,” she said.

“And there were days I couldn’t talk.”

She then described the support her family received from their Catholic community, and especially the love and support she found at Bishop Ward.

“My counselor at Bishop Ward met with me daily,” she said. “It was with her help — as well as that of teachers, coaches and friends — that I was able to faithfully process my grief.”

Rodriguez will graduate this spring and is headed for college. She will be the first person in her family to get a college education.

“Each and every day, your generosity benefits many students like me,” she said.

Recognition was also given to former superintendent of Catholic schools, Dr. Kathy O’Hara, when she accepted the Michael & Patty Morrisey Angels Among Us Award.

St. Benedict School, Atchison, received the Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann CEF School of Excellence Award.

Though the archbishop couldn’t personally present the award this year, he made an appearance by video from a pilgrimage to the Holy Land.

“Thank you for coming to Gaudeamus,” he said. “It’s always a fantastic and inspiring event.”

Though far away, the archbishop assured the CEF supporters they were in his prayers.

“I pray that the Lord will bless this night,” he said, “and through your generosity, we’ll be able to give the gift of a Catholic education to many more young people.”

The event raised $1.98 million, but the opportunity to give continues (see box).

President Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CATHOLIC EDUCATION FOUNDATION

Pictured with the banner naming St. Benedict School in Atchison this year’s CEF School of Excellence are, from left: Father Jeremy Heppler, OSB, pastor of St. Benedict Parish; Vince Cascone, superintendent of archdiocesan schools; Helen Schwinn, principal of St. Benedict School; Father Gary Pennings, archdiocesan vicar general; and Diane Liebsch, past principal of St. Benedict.

St. Benedict School in Atchison named CEF School of Excellence

A

ccepting the School of Excellence Award, St. Benedict principal Helen Schwinn acknowledged past principal Diane Liebsch, who retired this year after serving more than 40 years in education, the last eight as principal of St. Benedict.

She also thanked faculty, staff and parents.

“Our Catholic roots run deep in Atchison,” said Schwinn. “And we are guided by the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to be edu-

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

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org

Advertising Coordinator Beth Blankenship beth.blankenship@theleaven.org

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

Social Media Editor/Reporter Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

cated in a Christ-centered environment.

“We are so honored by this recognition and extend our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to CEF and to you, the generous donors, who help us carry out our mission.”

St. Benedict has an enrollment of 212, of which 52 students receive CEF scholarships.

Watch for a future Leaven story about how St. Benedict School connects students to its rural roots.

Published weekly September through May, excepting the Friday the week after Thanksgiving, and the Friday after Christmas; biweekly June through August. Address communications to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Phone: (913) 721-1570; fax: (913) 721-5276; or e-mail at: sub@theleaven.com. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. For change of address, provide old and new address and parish. Subscriptions $21/year. Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.

NOVEMBER 8, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

4

Holiness within our reach, says Newman expert

By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org

W

hat is your idea of holiness? And how can you strive for holiness with everything that’s going on

in your life?

That’s a question Sister Kathleen Dietz, FSO, hopes to address when she brings St. John Henry Newman and his teachings to life Sunday afternoon, Nov. 17, at Holy Angels Parish in Basehor.

Saint John Henry was a 19th-century theologian, educator and philosopher who converted to Catholicism from Anglicanism and eventually became a cardinal.

All his life he desired simply to find truth, follow it and do God’s will.

“And, of course, he failed many times like we all do because we’re all sinners,” said Sister Kathleen. “But he persevered through a lot of setbacks.

“That’s why I think he’s really relevant today.”

Sister Kathleen currently serves as the vice chancellor of the Diocese of Erie in Pennsylvania and is a recognized expert on St. John Henry Newman.

She received her doctorate in theology from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas in Rome with a dissertation on Newman’s ecclesiology.

Her community, The Spiritual Family “The Work,” promotes Newman’s work and has had a Newman library in Rome since 1975.

Sister Kathleen attended the saint’s canonization by Pope Francis on Oct. 13.

“It was, of course, thrilling,” she said.

“And I’m just happy that Newman is getting better known — not just intellectually, but also as a saint.

“And that’s exactly what Father Richard wants me to talk about when I get to Kansas City.”

Father Richard McDonald, pastor of Holy Angels, first came into contact with The Spiritual Family “The Work” years ago when he attended a symposium in Rome on St. John Henry Newman.

“The order was the catalyst organizing group that put on this phenomenal academic symposium,” he said.

Though he did not meet Sister Kathleen at the symposium, Father McDonald did encounter the future Pope Benedict XVI and Pope John Paul II there.

Later, as a student in Rome, he met

Newman presentation • “Saint John Henry Newman: His life as preacher, friend, convert and Catholic” • Sunday, Nov. 17 • 2:30 to 4 p.m. in the church (includes time for questions) • Holy Angels Parish, 15408 Leavenworth Rd., Basehor

Sister Kathleen Dietz, FSO, attends the canonization of St. John Henry Newman on Oct. 13 in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican. Sister Kathleen will talk about the saint’s life and ministry Nov. 17 at Holy Angels Parish in Basehor.

Sister Kathleen.

“I didn’t have her in classes,” he said. “I was at the Gregorian, but we became friends because of our mutual friends.”

They stayed in touch over the years.

“And now, I’m very happy to have the opportunity to speak at his parish,” said Sister Kathleen.

Many Catholics have the idea that to emulate a saint’s holiness would require extraordinary power or sacrifice.

Sister Kathleen hopes her presentation on St. John Henry Newman will help people realize holiness is within their reach.

“You couldn’t call his life ordinary,” she said, “but he lived, in a sense, a

normal, very busy life, juggling many things.

“He was a writer; he was involved in the politics of religion of the day. He wrote a couple of novels, he read novels; he loved music and played the violin.

“And all that he was striving for the entire time was holiness.”

Saint John Henry Newman is considered by many to be the greatest English prose stylist of all time and one of the greatest intellects of the 19th century.

“In that way,” said Father McDonald, “he speaks to our hearts, to our imaginations and to our minds.”

But beyond his intellectual greatness, the saint is also known for his compassion and closeness to the poor, his abili-

ty to relate to all people and his constant thirst for learning.

“He has that childlike sense of wonder while opening himself to everything that he possibly could intellectually,” said Father McDonald. “So, he has that great balance we all should have of wonder and intellectualism.”

And most of all, he had a holiness we can all achieve.

“Our lives have become super busy,” said Sister Kathleen. “We think we can’t find the time.

“I think Newman has the ability to tell us it’s not a matter of time, it’s a matter of focus.”

Through St. John Henry Newman we can learn to focus on holiness in our busy lives.

“He speaks to us across the centuries,” said Father McDonald. “And he is definitely, especially now as a canonized saint, a friend that we can look to.”

Sister Kathleen agreed.

“And I’m really looking forward to trying to bring that out to people,” she said. “So they find in him somebody they can emulate.”

Anxious teens pretend online to confidence they don’t feel >> Continued from page 1 generation that’s constantly connected but admits to feeling lonelier and more isolated than ever.

“I think it’s ironic how we post every single thing we do in our entire life on social media yet, when something’s wrong with us, we’re too scared to say it even to our best friends,” said senior Mike Zingg.

“I think it’s a really important thing that kids are comfortable sharing what’s going on with people they trust and being able to help themselves through talking their problems out,” he added.

Social media often gets in the way of young people talking in person and sharing how they’re really feeling, said junior Sarah Chastain.

“You’re posting pictures, you’re

seeing people have fun even though they’re not really,” she said. “It’s all for what people think.

“Even though you might not have a good time, you post a picture so it seems like you’re having a good time.

It’s a disguise of pretending everything’s fine and you’re thriving and doing great even though you might not be.”

Scrolling through social media can be particularly tough when a teenager is already feeling anxious or depressed.

“On your worst day, even though [it’s] people I don’t really care about, I’ll see them doing fun things and being happy and it brings you down even more,” said Zingg.

And although deleting the social apps might seem like the best option, Zingg explained it’s a tricky situation.

“I hate Snapchat,” he said, “but I

don’t think I could operate my friend groups without it.”

Portraying and maintaining an image online has complicated the lives of young people and confused their teachers, too.

“It always surprises me when I have a student show up in my office who, by all outward appearances, seems very popular and is surrounded by students, is well respected and thought of,” said Laura Cline, a guidance counselor at Aquinas.

“And they will still tell me, ‘I’m lonely. I don’t have friends,’” she added.

The staff at Aquinas never wants a student to feel alone or isolated, said Schenck.

“There’s so many negative things that happen once you feel isolated,” he explained. “I think kids [more easily] find themselves isolated lately, which

raises anxiety and all that.”

The Aquinas staff hopes Sources of Strength will connect the students and enhance the suicide prevention efforts already in place at the school.

Student leaders like Chastain also look forward to the impact the program will have on the Aquinas community.

“I think the program should help start the conversation so it’s not something people are afraid to talk about and be vulnerable about,” she said.

“I’m hoping it helps students recognize that there’s help when they need it,” she concluded. “They don’t have to reach rock bottom before they go ask for help.”

St. James Academy in Lenexa will also begin implementing Sources of Strength this year. For more information, visit the website at: sourcesofstrength.org.

NOVEMBER 8, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

5

Fundraisers like golf tourney support special ministry

By Katie Peterson Special to The Leaven

W

hen the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas specialneeds ministry first launched in October 2016, the Kansas Department of Aging and Developmental Disability Services helped kickstart it with a grant that funded the needs of the program.

With those funds now beginning to run out, it is up to fundraisers, organizations and individuals to help keep it going.

During the summer, Kansans for Life teamed up with the special-needs ministry of the archdiocese to do just that.

“Swing for Life” golf tournament, held June 4 at the Painted Hills Golf Club in Kansas City, Kansas, said golf tournament lead Tom Treacy, not only helped raise more for the ministry.

“It also promoted the belief that one’s level of dependency does not equal the level of worth both in and outside the womb,” he said.

Partnering with special-needs golfer Pattie Garbeff for a fundraiser called “Puttin’ with Pattie,” the ministry took over a hole and raised more than $1,250 for the ministry.

“When Tom first approached me, my first thought was toward his sense of charity and generosity,” said Tom Racunas, special-needs ministry lead consultant.

“How amazing that this guy would be thinking about our respite care program and would want to do something to help,” he said. “I felt tremendous gratitude and still do. It was a great day full of purpose and fellowship.”

Now this fall, a wide range of outreaches are available for both those with special needs and their loved ones.

A special Mass was held Oct. 12 for

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Tom Treacy stands with Patti Garbeff and her daughter Pattie. Treacy teamed with Pattie for a fundraiser called “Puttin’ with Pattie” and raised more than $1,250 for the archdiocesan special-needs ministry. As a grant that helped fund the archdiocesan special-needs ministry spends down, the ministry relies on fundraisers to supplement its budget.

Mental Health Awareness Month, and parents and catechists continue to work with those with disabilities to prepare them for reception of the sacraments, Racunas said.

Now in its third year, the specialneeds ministry provides catechesis and services, but also education — including information nights about financial planning, special-needs trusts, the ABLE Act, guardianship and other legal aspects.

One of the ministry’s most meaningful programs, though, is the respite care night, which takes place every month.

“It was on [Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann’s] heart for a long time to

start the [special-needs ministry],” Racunas said. “The respite care program was started specifically because the families he listened to said they needed respite care. They had taken advantage of respite care programs sponsored by some of the non-Catholic churches in the area, but they wanted respite care within a Catholic environment, so we started it.”

The respite care nights give a break from caregiving for families who have a child with a disability, Racunas said.

For four hours, once a month, these “friends” — age 5 or older with special needs — join with a volunteer buddy and choose from a wide range of activ-

ities including arts and crafts, sensory activities, recreation and leisure activities, outdoor play and movies.

The evenings also include dinner and a prayer service.

“Our friends just choose whatever they want to do for however long they want to do it, and we just have a good time,” Racunas said. “We’re trying to build community and build relationships within a Catholic/Christian setting but, at the same time, keeping everybody safe and happy.”

The respite care program, known as BREATHE, is named after St. Andre Bessette, said Racunas, and stands for “Bessette Respite Embracing Action Towards Holy Encounters.”

“We are active, we’re alive, but the point is that we are engaging in a relationship that builds a holy encounter between the person we’re serving: us to them and them to us,” he said. “They have gifts to give us, and we have gifts to give them.

“Only 15 percent of us are born with a disability or acquire a disability as a young person,” said Racunas. “Eightyfive percent of disabilities are caused by accident or illness or aging, so we’re all vulnerable.”

“Disability is part of the human condition,” he continued, “but by virtue of our baptism, we all have a place at the eucharistic table. So, we need to create a space and a sense of belonging for everyone.

“All means all.”

To donate to the special-needs ministry, send contributions to the Office of Special Needs at the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109.

For more information about the ministry, visit the website at: www.archkck. org. Look for “Special Needs” under the “Ministries” tab.

No one surprised by JoCo girl’s vocation — except her

By Jan Dixon Special to The Leaven

F

amily and faith have always been important to AnneMarie Whitehead. She grew up chasing after three older brothers, playing basketball and volleyball, swimming and babysitting. She attended a Catholic grade school, high school and college.

Becoming a religious Sister was not her plan.

“I knew I wanted to do something with children, and it would probably be in a foreign place,” said Whitehead.

“But there were hints of a special vocation along the way,” She recalled her first Communion as a student at Church of the Nativity in Leawood as being a very special event.

“I understood the importance of the sacrament,” she said. “I was all dressed up and I knew I wanted to be a bride one day.”

Confirmation also had a strong impact on her and, as a student at St. Teresa’s Academy in Kansas City, Missouri, Whitehead felt called to participate in various ministries.

At the end of her senior year, she was voted the most likely to pursue a religious vocation.

“She was not happy about that at the time,” said Diane Whitehead, her mother. “I think others were seeing what AnneMarie couldn’t yet see.”

She chose to attend Benedictine

PHOTO COURTESY OF SISTER SACRIFICE

Sister Mary Altar of Sacrifice, center back, stands with students and parents at a new school in Papua, New Guinea, where she is on mission.

College in Atchison because of its size, its proximity to home, and its strong faith life.

“I didn’t know at the time what a huge impact it would actually have on my life,” she said.

Surrounded by the faith examples of other students and religious and with opportunities to grow in faith, she began to sense that God was calling her to something deeper.

Her discernment intensified during a semester abroad and it was there that

she decided to open herself to God — and to listen.

“After returning to Benedictine, I knew where I was headed and began to search for the right religious order,” said Whitehead. “And no one was surprised at my future plans.”

Using the rules of discernment of St. Ignatius of Loyola and through much prayer, she found the Servants of the Lord and the Virgin of Matara, commonly known as Las Servidoras.

The order, founded in 1988, now

numbers over 1250 sisters and is present in 35 countries.

“I knew immediately that this was where God was calling me to be a spouse of Christ,” she said.

AnneMarie Whitehead became Sister Mary Altar of Sacrifice, a direct title to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

Her name shows a special consecration to Mary and has inspired her to try to be like Mary to the world.

Following theology studies in Washington, D.C., she spent a year at the International House of Study in Italy with 50 Sisters from 17 different countries.

She then volunteered for mission work in Papua, New Guinea, where a new school was to be established. Due to the extreme climate of that area, her parents and brothers had to support the choice.

“I felt that my general and special education degrees would be a help with the project,” Sister Sacrifice said.

Once the Whitehead family agreed to the assignment, she was ready for her new role in a faraway place.

With her heart open to God, Sister Sacrifice left Italy on Oct. 4 for the long journey to reach the mission in Papua, New Guinea.

“It is with great joy that I am heeding [God’s] call to the religious life and to a life of prayer and service,” she said.

Her faith started in the family and grew through her education. Now, she has begun a life of sharing that faith with others.

NOVEMBER 8, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

FAMILY LIFE

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6

‘Till death do us part’ isn’t the end of the story

ome time ago, a reader of this column wrote, asking: “Have you ever considered writing about the love that extends past our present life — as when one’s spouse passes away?”

Honestly, I had not thought about the subject. But the question alerted me that this is a topic that may be of interest to some of my readers. We are in November and this is the month when we remember those who have passed. It is a good time to reflect on the power of love even beyond the grave.

I know several widows and widowers in our community, but I have never spoken to them about their current feelings for the deceased spouse. So, I asked four of them to describe their love for the departed spouse.

Fred, who lost his wife Betty five years ago, shared the following: “When I got married, I promised to love Betty until I die. That promise

JOHN BOSIO John Bosio is a former marriage and family therapist, director of religious education and diocesan family life coordinator. He is a member of the National Association of Catholic Family Life Ministers.

of love meant being committed to her while she was alive by helping her with her needs for my affection, and for my care, especially when she was sick.”

“With her death, such obligation is fulfilled,” he continued. “Now, my love for her is different. While I expressed my love for her physically before, my feelings of love are now

based on memories. The way the kitchen is organized still reminds me of her, knickknacks in the house remind me of her.

They make her present to me today.

“She is a constant in my life, like a guardian angel, and I speak to her.”

Ed, a widower after 39 years of marriage, had this to say: “My wife Flordelina is always present to me. I turn to her when I make a major decision and ask myself: ‘What would she say about this decision?’”

“My way of loving her today,” he added, “is cherishing the memories of our life together and drawing from those memories the energy to go forward with my life as a single person and as a father and grandfather.

As for my future, if I were to remarry, it does not mean that I love Flordelina less.”

Charleen, a widow after 53 years of marriage, said that she appreciates her husband John more now for all the things he did for her and the children — his

sacrifices, the dreams he gave up and the struggles he had.

“I talk to him a lot,” she said. “One day, when my pastor asked me about John, I was surprised by my answer.

I said, ‘John showed me what God is like. I am blessed because of him.’”

“When John was alive, I nagged a lot about little things,” Charleen continued. “But now that he is gone, I can’t think of a single thing I would change about him.

“There was a time when I thought I would remarry but, eventually, I decided that I could not.

I would always compare the new person in my life to John, and the new husband would not measure up.”

Peggy, a widow after 37 years of marriage, has a different perspective on remarriage: “I remarried because I desired a loving companionship with someone who shared my faith, values and interests. Ken, my second husband, filled my long list of expectations. I am very

blessed by this union, especially with his kind and generous family.”

“I still love my first husband who died 20 years ago,” said Peggy.

“My love for him right now consists of tender memories. I remember the good times we had — our wedding in Germany and honeymoon in Italy; my husband’s love for our children and how he enjoyed playing with them.”

“Memories are what remains of that relationship, and everything is good and positive,” Peggy concluded. “These memories do not interfere with my relationship with Ken, my current husband.”

I enjoyed visiting with these friends and, from them, I learned that love does not die when a spouse passes away, but it is transformed. It is the love we carry with us in our good memories.

When we experience joyful or painful moments in life that bring us closer, these moments become images of love that will remain with us after our loved one passes.

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Question for reflection: What are some of the good memories that you and your spouse have created — memories that will remain with you as long as you live?

and for my readers is the importance of creating good memories with our spouse throughout our life. That is what will remain when one of us dies. Our tender memories are images of our love.

In the meantime, we should not forget to pray for our departed relatives and spouse. We learned in the Baltimore Catechism that the purpose of marriage is to enable husband and wife to help each other get to heaven.

Our deceased relatives and spouses welcome our prayers and will intercede for us in our moments of need. Love never dies.

THE MINISTRY OF MUSIC

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Shaun Whisler, music director at Corpus Christi Parish in Lawrence, directs the handbell choir during Mass at the church.

Music adds solemnity and festivity to Mass STORY BY JOE BOLLIG ANSAS CITY, Kan. The church began with — What kind of sandwich did you have at music Mass last Sunday?

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Not a real sandwich, but a musical one.

Among church music directors and accompanists, the slang term for the four major hymns or songs most of us experience at Mass is the “hymn sandwich.”

The constituent parts are more commonly called the processional, offertory, Communion and recessional hymns.

But there is a lot more to Mass music than the hymn sandwich. The Catholic Church has built up an impressive tradition of liturgical music over the past 2,000 years, and there have been even more rapid developments in church music in the 50 years since the Second Vatican Council, held 1962 to 1965.

Have you ever asked: “Why do we use that music at Mass?”

Well, here’s the answer: “It’s complicated.”

Music has always been part of Christian worship, said Michael Podrebarac, archdiocesan consultant for the liturgy and sacramental life office.

“The earliest Christians still worshiped in the synagogue and the [Jerusalem] Temple,” said Podrebarac.

“When they were removed . . . by the Jewish authorities, they then met in homes. But from everything we know, they still sang the psalms.

“The [Book of Psalms] is the hymnal of the Bible for both Jews and Christians. They continued to sing them to the same musical tunes that, in time, became the psalm tones of Gregorian chant.”

So, psalms it was until the great theological controversies of the fourth and fifth centuries, when the writing of hymns became a means of instructing >> See “SELECTIONS” on the next page

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

From left, Kate Meives and Katie Stegeman, both age 14, provide the music as part of the Sunday evening choir at Prince of Peace Parish, Olathe.

Selections reflect musical, liturgical and pastoral >> Continued from page 1 people in correct doctrine.

“People like St. Ambrose and St. Athanasius would write hymns that would end with a trinitarian doxology,” said Podrebarac.

Over the centuries, church music developed differently in the different parts of the former Roman Empire and beyond, such as the Latin West and Greek East. The oldest music still used in the Latin rite is Gregorian chant.

Silence and the sandwich Is music at Mass a necessity?

No. In fact, most parishes have daily Mass without music. The reason for that may be more practical, but it’s also a longstanding tradition.

“The Mass can certainly be celebrated without music,” said Podrebarac. “The [Roman] Missal says the various texts can be said or sung and, of course, the church has a longstanding tradition of the so-called Low Mass, when the Mass [would be] simply recited by the priest and, in later years, the responses were said by people.”

The longstanding mindset of the church, however, is that music adds solemnity and festivity, and it makes the liturgy more engaging. It underscores the fact that people worship not only with their minds and hearts, but with all the senses — which includes singing and hearing music.

And this is, in part, where we get our “sandwich.”

“This comes from a time when it was possible to sing hymns at Low Mass, and these were the places where even vernacular (common language) hymns could be sung,” said Podrebarac. “But vernacular hymns in the Extraordinary Form (Latin Mass) are never sung at High Mass, except at the recessional.”

Sorting the sandwich — and more There are two basic kinds of music used during the Mass in the Ordinary Form — your typical parish Sunday Mass.

The first kind falls into the category of “processional songs,” which make up three-fourths of the so-called hymn sandwich.

These are sung when the priest goes to the altar at the beginning of Mass, the offertory when the gifts are brought to the altar, and during Communion when the people go forward to receive the Eucharist.

As an option, antiphons can be sung instead of the processional hymns. (Antiphons are short passages from the Psalms sung as a refrain.)

Interestingly, the liturgical documents that govern the music used at Mass do not mention “recessional” hymns. These developed more out of custom. Technically, they’re not part of the Mass.

The second category is made up of “acclamations and responses.” The latter includes what are variously called the people’s Mass parts, settings, service music or the ordinary of the Mass.

These are the Kyrie, Gloria, Sanctus (Holy, Holy), “Mysterium Fidei” (“Mystery of Faith”), Great Amen and Agnus Dei (Lamb of God).

The practice (not a requirement) is that a change of liturgical season is accompanied by a change in the music for the Mass parts. You might notice this change very soon — when the church season of Advent starts right after

Mike Fessler plays guitar during Mass at Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe on Nov. 3.

The ‘rules’ Musicians and accompanists are guided by these documents: • “Musicam Sacram” (“Instruction on Music in the Liturgy”), Congregation for Divine Worship, Rome (March 5, 1967) • “Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy,” Second Vatican Council, Rome (Dec. 4, 1963) • “Sing to the Lord: Music in Divine Worship,” U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (Nov. 14, 2007) • “General Instruction of the Roman Missal,” Roman Missal, Rome (1970)

Thanksgiving, to be precise.

The Mass parts are usually sung, but can be spoken. There are also other parts that can be sung, called “dialogues,” that are usually spoken.

For example, the priest may sing: “The Lord be with you,” and the people respond by singing: “And with your spirit,” and so on. “[According to liturgical documents] the first and most important form of music is actually those times when the priest addresses the congregation and the congregation responds, sometimes called the dialogues,” said Podrebarac.

“This is the most important music to be sung,” he continued, “but, of course, we find those dialogues hardly ever sung. All too often musicians are much more concerned about choosing [the processional hymns].”

Why is this? It’s because in the years after the Second Vatican Council, priests

Archdiocesan liturgist Michael Podrebarac cantors during an ordination Mass. and musicians largely discarded the High Mass/Low Mass mentality and focused more on the hymns sung at Mass.

Interestingly, the dialogues are making a comeback.

“The reason they’re coming back is

that more and more of the faithful are appreciating a more solemn celebration of the liturgy,” said Podrebarac, “and one of the teachings of the Second Vatican Council is that music . . . adds solemnity to the liturgy.”

l judgments

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Matthew Winterhalter, music director at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kansas, directs the cathedral choir during Mass on Nov. 3.

A few ‘lofty’ observations

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

H LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

ow does Matthew Winterhalter know people are engaged with the hymns at Mass?

He looks down from his bench at the organ in the choir loft and sees how many are holding open hymnals.

A number of factors determine musical selections for Mass, according to Winterhalter, music director at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kansas.

Parish tradition plays a role, and the personal involvement of the pastor as well. But the primary factor

is the liturgical calendar.

“The liturgical season is the main contributor to music selections — Advent, Christmas, Lent and Easter — have their own selections of hymn texts that are appropriate,” he said.

“After that, the readings of that particular Sunday [play a part],” he continued.

“Oftentimes, there are songs composed that are associated with those readings.

“And after that, [you consider] what is appropriate music for each part of the Mass . . . a Eucharist-themed song for Communion, and likewise finding a song more appropriate at a louder volume is better for opening and closing.”

Another factor is accessibility.

FILE PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER

According to archdiocesan liturgist Michael Podrebarac, one of the most important questions about the music a parish uses is: “What music texts and melodies does the worshiping congregation need in order to properly participate in the divine mysteries?”

FILE PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER

How do you choose?

When a parish musician prepares the music of a liturgy, he or she is expected to make three judgments, said Podrebarac.

The first is a musical judgment: Is it good music, musically speaking?

The second is a liturgical judgment: Is the music appropriate to the liturgy being celebrated?

The third and final is a pastoral judgment: Is the music suitable to the kind of congregation gathered?

The decision as to what music to use is less a matter of mere opinion than of the musician’s expert discretion, said Podrebarac.

“In the end the question is: What music texts and melodies does the worshiping congregation need in order to properly participate in the divine mysteries,” he said.

There are other, practical considerations, too.

What resources does the parish have?

What talent is available? What cultures are present in the parish? What language groups?

Our current liturgical tradition is

“I focus most of my efforts on finding ‘good’ music,” said Winterhalter. “If it isn’t good to begin with, and no one enjoys hearing it, they won’t join in [and sing].

“You want the congregation to participate. If it’s a choral work, you want them to be able to appreciate the music and not have it go over their heads.”

An occasional “thank you” is always appreciated by the parish music director or organist (except interrupting them while they are playing — a big no-no). But there is one thing that helps them more than anything.

“Participation is the biggest, best response an organist can get,” said Winderhalter.

only 50-some years old. During that time, there has been a tremendous amount of experimentation in the kinds of music used, as well as instruments.

Some music has stood the test of time and some hasn’t. Some music simply has gone out of style.

“The hymns of the ’70s are lovely and beloved by a lot of people,” said Beth Blankenship, former musician at Corpus Christi Parish in Cincinnati and current member of St. Pius X Parish in Mission.

“However, just like the Latin Mass, not everyone likes them. . . . . A lot of parishes are using more of a mix of [music] — some contemporary, some ’70s, some traditional, some more eclectic.”

Others are using — at least for teen Masses — what is commonly referred to as praise and worship songs.

And this is all taking place in a time of increasing shortages of a crucial commodity for Catholic worship: organists.

According to Podrebarac, there is a new and growing appreciation by some of the more traditional music, including sacred chant and choral pieces, and a recognition of the need to evaluate the kinds of music Catholics use in light of certain foundational liturgical principles.

“And herein lies the challenge,” said Podrebarac. “How can we be faithful to those founding principles and, at the same time, provide the pastoral response that some people express they need?”

NOVEMBER 8, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Kindergartners learn to make a difference

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

L

AWRENCE — The kindergarten class at St. John the Evangelist School here proved that no one is too young to give back to their community.

The students participated in Socktober, a service project that yielded 189 pairs of socks and 106 pairs of underwear for children at the Lawrence Community Shelter.

“My kindergartners were surprised to think that kids in our community needed something as simple as socks and underwear,” said Kasey Fewins, kindergarten teacher at St. John.

“They were eager to help in their small way,” she said. “They were proud watching the collection box fill up during the month.”

Fewins wants her students to develop a desire to give back for the long term, so her kindergartners take part in three or four service projects throughout the year.

“Service projects like this,” she said, “help young children develop an awareness of a world beyond their own.

“I hope they can develop empathy for others and the recognition that you are never too little to help others.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF ST. JOHN SCHOOL

The kindergarten class of St. John the Evangelist School in Lawrence took part in Socktober, a service project that yielded 189 pairs of socks and 106 pairs of underwear for children at the Lawrence Community Shelter.

Fewins also hopes the kids realize the impact they can have through even the smallest acts of service.

“It can be overwhelming thinking of all the needs people in our community have,” she said. “Sometimes,

it can be hard to figure out where to start.

“But it has to start somewhere.

It doesn’t have to be a giant act. It can be a small group doing little things to make a difference — even a group of kindergartners.”

‘Knight on the Town’ benefits Mater Dei School

By Carolyn Kaberline Special to The Leaven

T

OPEKA — It’s been said that a successful event always involves fun, fellowship and food. And those are exactly the ingredients found in the inaugural “Knight on the Town” signature event held recently to benefit Mater Dei School here.

In addition to providing an enjoyable evening, the event earned more than $39,000 for student scholarships.

“When we became one of the schools involved in the School Advancement Program, Michael and Patty Morrisey encouraged us to consider adding a signature event that would benefit student scholarships,” said Andrea Hillebert, Mater Dei principal, to help ensure the school’s sustainability.

“We needed to consider a way to raise funds that was not taxing on our parish or school families,” she continued. “We attended some different fundraising events and chose a format that would work best for us.

“We chose a ‘Knight on the Town’ because we are the Knights!”

In addition to bolstering the school’s sustainability, Hillebert said that using the money for scholarships would not only help school families but would resonate with sponsors and attendees as well.

The approximately 120 people in attendance at the event held at Iron Rail Brewing in downtown Topeka seemed to confirm that. The crowd was treated to a meal of heavy appetizers, including pulled pork, brisket, mac and cheese, fried pickles, veggies and brownies as they learned more about the school, its

10

Mike and Joyce O’Connor, members of Divine Mercy Parish, Garner, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Nov. 16 with family and friends. The couple was married on Nov. 15, 1969, at Sacred Heart Church, Gardner.

They have three children: Casey Skinner, Jackie Stahl and Brian O’Connor.

They also have eight grandchildren.

Ann and Richard Bertels, members of St. Joseph Parish, Nortonville, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on Nov. 16 with a family gathering for dinner and drinks in Topeka.

The couple was married on Nov. 10, 1959, at St. Joseph Church, Nortonville. Their children are: Kevin Bertels, Terry Bertels, Mark Bertels, Angee Noll, Todd Bertels and Aaron Bertels. They also have 12 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Tammy and Jerry Pater, members of Church of the Ascension, Overland Park, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Nov. 15.

The couple will celebrate with a trip to Florida this month. They will also celebrate with a family dinner.

They were married at Assumption Church in Mount Healthy, Ohio, in 1969. Their children are: Shannon Honn and Timothy Pater. They also have five grandchildren.

Deloyce “Dee” (VanNahmen) and C.E. McKee III, member of St. Bernard Parish, Wamego, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Nov. 15. The couple was married on Nov. 15, 1969, at St. John Church, Spearville. Their children are: Aaron, Meridith and Megan.

They also have 10 grandchildren.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY CAROLYN KABERLINE

Father John Pilcher, pastor of Mater Dei Parish in Topeka, picks the winner for one of the prizes at Mater Dei School’s “Knight on the Town” fundraiser. students, and its accomplishments.

“We knew we wanted to choose a downtown venue because we are located in downtown Topeka,” Hillebert said. “We chose the Iron Rail because it is a relatively new venue, and we thought a brewery would be a fun place to host our adults-only event.”

In addition to a 50-50 raffle which saw half of $9,420 going to Brian and Jessica Valdivia, tuition credit was also given to the top three ticket sellers.

The kindergarten class also received a pizza party as the class selling the most tickets; the average ticket sale per student in kindergarten was $89.17.

With the inaugural event behind them, Hillebert said the school “will definitely host something like this again — our guests had a great time,

and we will be able to help many families with the proceeds. We think it was a wonderful success, and we look forward to growing this event.”

Hillebert was also quick to give credit to all those involved in making the evening a success, especially the committee members who put in many long hours.

“Michael and Patty Morrisey guided our team, which was led by chairperson Paula Valdivia-Droge,” Hillebert said. “Her team included Kathy Clark, Erin Lee, Caitlin LaMarr, Shawn Hillebert, Darian Hillebert and Carlos Chavez.”

From the positive comments from those in attendance, it was quite obvious that a “Knight on the Town” had become a “Night to Remember.”

University of St. Mary unites to combat hunger LEAVENWORTH — Volunteers from the University of Saint Mary here will package over 20,000 meals Nov. 17 during its annual Feed the Need event.

The packages of rice, soy, dehydrated vegetables and flavoring mix will be distributed to hungry families in Tanzania, a country that has nearly 45 million people relying on subsistence farming to meet their nutritional needs.

Volunteers are needed for the event, which will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in McGilley Field House on USM’s main campus. Students, faculty, staff, and community members are all welcome to sign up online at: stmary.edu/FeedTheNeed.

Donations are also needed. All gifts will go toward food-packaging supplies, a $5,000 expense, and can be made online at: stmary.edu/HelpTanzania.

NOVEMBER 8, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

NATION

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Measure provides for respectful ‘disposition’ of fetal remains

W

ASHINGTON (CNS) — A bill in Congress to require respectful disposition of fetal remains from abortions as well as accountability from the abortion industry “is in keeping with society’s treatment of all other deceased persons,” said the chairman of the U.S. bishops’ pro-life committee.

In an Oct. 31 letter to lawmakers urging they support the Dignity for Aborted Children Act, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of Kansas City, Kansas, cited the shocking discovery in September and October of fetal remains in rural Illinois on property once owned by a now-deceased abortion doctor who for many years ran clinics in nearby Indiana.

The remains of 2,246 aborted babies were found in Dr. Ulrich “George” Klopfer’s home in Will County, Illinois, Sept. 13. The following month, additional remains were discovered in various cars Klopfer owned, and on Oct. 11 local authorities said they had determined the remains were of 165 aborted babies, bringing the total number now to 2,411.

Such actions make “people on both sides of the abortion debate uncomfortable, sad, angry,” said Archbishop Naumann, who heads the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee for Pro-Life Activities. Every culture and religious tradition has customs and practices surrounding how to care for and dispose of the dead, he noted in his letter, which was released by the USCCB Nov. 1.

For Catholics, he said, the church has long taught that “the human body shares in the dignity of the image of God, that our bodies are a reminder of the bodily resurrection of Jesus, and

CNS PHOTO/GREGORY A. SHEMITZ

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, chairman of the U.S. bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities, celebrates Mass during the National Prayer Vigil for Life Jan. 17, at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington. of that resurrection, which we too will experience after death, and burying the dead is taught as one of the seven corporal works of mercy.”

“Other faiths and belief systems

likewise promote dignified treatment of the deceased and respectful disposal of their remains,” he continued, adding that health regulations, ethical guidance for medicine and science, trauma

and emergency response, and religious and moral belief all point toward the need for a society to respectfully dispose of each human body.

The Dignity for Aborted Children Act was introduced in the Senate on Sept. 27 by Republican Sens. Todd Young and Mike Braun of Indiana.

It requires abortion providers to dispose of the remains of unborn children just as any other human being. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine and up to 5 years in prison.

It also requires a consent form so the mother can choose to retain possession of her unborn child or allow the provider to cremate or inter the unborn child. Failure of the provider to execute these forms is punishable by civil penalty.

The measure, S. 2590, has a companion bill in the U.S. House, H.R. 4934, introduced in late October by Republican Reps. Jackie Walorski and Jim Banks of Indiana.

The Dignity for Aborted Children Act builds on the Indiana law enacted in 2016 and upheld this year by the U.S. Supreme Court that requires dignified disposition of aborted fetal remains.

“Whether you support or oppose legalized abortion, I hope you will agree that these human bodies should not be wantonly discarded as medical waste or preserved at the whim of the abortion doctor,” Archbishop Naumann told members of Congress.

“Such basic courtesy is in keeping with society’s treatment of all other deceased persons including cadavers, donated organs and tissues, remains that are recovered after traumatic incidents, and so on,” he wrote. “As a nation, we can at least come together to ensure all human remains are treated with basic human dignity.”

Ahead of 2020 election, campaign stresses why civility important

By Dennis Sadowski Catholic News Service

W

ASHINGTON (CNS) — Rancor in politics, especially these days, may be the norm, but a nationwide effort is underway to remind people that civility in political discussions is a virtue.

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops is introducing the Civilize It campaign Nov. 3 at parishes around the country. It stresses that respectful dialogue — rather than name-calling and nasty barbs — can occur among people with differing political views.

“In part, this campaign is really in response to the vitriol that we see in public discourse on both sides of the aisle,” said Jill Rauh, director of education and outreach in the USCCB’s Department of Justice, Peace and Human Development.

“Civility is something that we, at least in theory, should all agree on,” she told Catholic News Service. “Catholics don’t always come down on the same side in terms of where they discern to be voting. But everyone should agree that we can be modeling love for neighbor and we can be modeling the example of Christ.”

The date of the program’s introduction is significant because it is precisely one year from the 2020 presidential election.

The idea for Civilize It originated in

CNS PHOTO/GREGORY A. SHEMITZ

Voters line up prior to casting their ballots at a polling station in Nesconset, N.Y., on Election Day Nov. 6, 2018. Rancor in politics, especially these days, may be the norm, but a nationwide effort is underway to remind people that civility in political discussions is a virtue. the Social Action Office of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati in 2016. Its success in southwest Ohio caught the attention of the USCCB, which this year decided that the model, with a few tweaks, could be introduced nationwide.

Rauh said about a dozen dioceses were expected to move quickly to adopt the campaign starting at Masses Nov. 2 and 3 with others expected to follow during the next several months.

The effort also will incorporate the U.S. bishops’ quadrennial document,

“Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship.” The document remains unchanged this year, but the bishops will vote on a letter and four short video scripts to supplement it during their annual fall assembly in Baltimore Nov. 11-13.

Andrew Musgrave, director of the Cincinnati Archdiocese’s Social Action Office, said he planned to alert parishes that the program is continuing for the next year. He said the effort there will build on the success of the program

in 2016, which saw parishioners from dozens of parishes becoming involved.

The campaign’s cornerstone is a three-part pledge that individuals can take to respect civility, to root political views in the Gospel and a well-formed conscience, and to encounter others with compassion.

Personal reflection is a significant component of the program. Resources developed by Rauh’s office will help guide participants in the tradition of an examination of conscience so they can better understand how they can respond to people with whom they disagree.

Other resources include a pastoral aid that includes homily guides for Masses Nov. 2-3, promotional materials for use in parishes and discussion groups, and examples of social media messaging.

The campaign “is a way the church can be an example,” Rauh said. “We can bring our moral voice to the public square.”

Civilize It also is part of a wider campaign known as Golden Rule 2020 being undertaken by the National Institute for Civil Discourse at the University of Arizona starting Nov. 3.

Cheryl Graeve, national organizer for the institute, said the campaign’s title is rooted in the widely held value among religious and non-religious people and Christians and nonChristians of “treating another person as you expect to be treated.”

NOVEMBER 8, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CLASSIFIEDS

EMPLOYMENT Bus drivers - With multiple locations in Johnson County, Special Beginnings Early Learning Center provides high quality early childhood education in a safe, loving, Christian environment. With a balanced curriculum of preacademics and social-emotional development, children grow with us, build confidence, and a strong self-esteem. At Special Beginnings, we believe providing the right environment will give children the foundation to be successful in life. Special Beginnings Early Learning Center is seeking a part-time bus driver (15-20 hrs/week; no weekend hours) of a 15-passenger bus to drive children to school and/or pick them up after school. Duties include: safely transport children to and/or from school following ALL safety & security procedures; safely transport children to and from field trips and other off-site activities; follow a planned route on a time schedule; help children get on and off the bus; ensure children stay in their seat at all times; follow traffic laws and state and federal transit regulations; carefully navigate roads and watch for ice, debris or slippery spots; report accidents immediately; maintain “clean” driving record during off hours. We require the following: driver must be at least 25 years old (due to insurance requirements) with a “clean” driving record for at least 2 years; pass a background check; must maintain and practice safe driving and have a “clean” driving record; have patience and understanding when working with children ages 5-12 years old; enjoy working in a child friendly environment. Benefits: competitive benefit package; excellent support and training from an experienced leadership/management team; pay: $11-15/hour depending on experience.

High School president - Saint Thomas Aquinas High School in Overland Park is seeking a high school president. The ideal candidate will be a dynamic, inspirational, visionary leader who is a practicing Catholic and committed to the mission and core values of the school.

For a complete job description, please visit: www.sta saints.net/presidentposition. To apply, send a letter of introduction and a current resume to: Dr. Vince Cascone, Superintendent of Schools, Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109.

Also complete the president application process at: www.archkckcs.org. The deadline is Jan. 3, 2020.

QAPI coordinator, hospice - Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas has an immediate opening for a QAPI coordinator, hospice. This role will successfully promote and support the mission of Catholic Charities as guided by the Catholic social teachings. This individual plans, coordinates and implements the quality management and quality improvement programs for Catholic Community Hospice (CCH). Monitors, reports and provides staff education related to quality assurance and compliance functions. Provides consultation and direction to ensure programs and services are implemented at the highest standards and patients receive the highest level of care.

Ensures hospice policies and procedures are monitored and updated to include regulatory changes. For more information and to apply, visit: catholiccharitiesks.org.

Community assistants - L’Arche Heartland of Overland Park serves adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities in day program support services and in residential services. We are seeking assistants who are looking for a unique opportunity in a faith-based organization. We are in immediate need of day service assistants to work in our day program serving 30 adults.

We have a recycling program and community activities.

Our core members participate in distributing for Meals on Wheels and Rise Against Hunger. They also attend community events such as the library, movies, bowling and going to parks. We also have a need for live-in and live-out assistants in our five residential homes. If interested, contact Jamie Henderson, community leader, by email at: jamie@larcheks.org.

General office assistant - Established company looking for an enthusiastic and detail-oriented general office assistant. Position involves customer care; ordering product; receiving; shipping; filing; invoicing; and other duties as assigned. QuickBooks knowledge is a plus. The company is also looking for someone with computer skills as well as ability to do light lifting. Dependable transportation is a must. Qualified candidates would demonstrate dependability, trustworthiness and excellent customer service abilities. If interested, send resume to: yourcareer101@gmail.com.

Office manager - Sophia Spirituality Center, a ministry of Mount St. Scholastica in Atchison, is seeking to hire an office manager to provide general administrative support to the staff and exemplary customer service to guests who come for retreats. Grounded in the rich monastic tradition of prayer and hospitality, Sophia Center welcomes men and women of all faiths who are searching for God, peace and for meaning in their lives through offerings that foster spiritual and personal growth. The ideal candidate will be steeped in Benedictine values; responsible; detail-oriented; have excellent verbal and written skills; and be available most Friday nights and Saturdays. Experience with the unique environment of Catholic ministry is a plus. If interested, email sophia@ mountosb.org for details on the application process.

Service technicians - Established company is growing their business and looking for enthusiastic and detail-oriented service technicians. This position involves small equipment servicing at corporate customers; electrical knowledge a plus. Position involves lifting and walking as well as regional travel; dependable transportation is a must.

The qualified candidates would have demonstrated dependability, trustworthiness and customer service abilities.

If interested, send resume to: yourcareer101@gmail.com.

Medical social worker, hospice - Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas has an immediate opening for a medical social worker, hospice. This role will successfully promote and support the mission of Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas as guided by the Catholic social teachings. The medical social worker is responsible for the implementation of standards of care for medical social work services and for adherence to all conditions in the service or employment agreement. For more information or to apply, visit: catholiccharitiesks.org.

Drivers - Assisted Transportation is now hiring caring and reliable drivers to transport K-12 students to and from school and other activities in company minivans.

Positions are now available in Olathe, Overland Park and Kansas City, Kansas. Competitive wages and flexible schedules. CDL not required. Retirees encouraged to apply. Call (913) 262-3100 or apply online at: Assisted Transportation.com. EEO. Volunteers - Do you want to have more meaning in your life, do something that is satisfying and of great service to your community? Become a volunteer at Saint John Hospital. “Greeters with a smile” — Volunteers needed for the information desk/PBX operator. For more information, call (913) 596-4195.

Administrative assistant - Looking for something new?

Use your administrative skills to help a developmental optometrist change people’s lives. The hours are: T/W/TH from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; summer hours vary. No health benefits. Need to know basic bookkeeping skills. Background needed in Work, Excel and QuickBooks. Customer service and medical office experience helpful. Send resume to: Dr. Beth Bazin, 13600 Washington, Kansas City, MO 64145 or send via email to: bbazin@visiondevelop.com.

Career opportunity – Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding a financial representative in the Kansas City, Kansas, and Missouri metro areas, St. Joseph, Mo., and Maryville, Mo. This is ideal for a determined, high energy, high expectation, professional, self-disciplined, independent individual, who desires to serve others yet earn a better than average income. We provide top-rated financial products to our members and their families, and will provide excellent benefits and training. This is a full-time position. For more information or an interview, please contact John A. Mahon, General Agent, 1275 S.W. Topeka Blvd., Topeka, KS 66612; call (855) 3564849; or email: mahonagencymail2@kofc.org.

Executive administrative assistant - The School of Faith Institute is seeking to hire an executive administrative assistant to serve as a critical part of its team. The ideal candidate must be able to collaborate with others; be self-directed with little supervision; possess good problem solving skills, time management and communication skills; be able to use a computer effectively and be willing to learn programs specific to performing the tasks for the position; and must see oneself and act as a team member responsible for the whole of the mission of School of Faith and its activity. For a detailed job description or to apply, contact Dan Heiman with Cornerstone Kansas City at (913) 341-7655 or send an email to: danh@cornerstone-kc.com.

Administrative assistant - Mater Dei Parish in Topeka is seeking qualified candidates to fill the position of administrative assistant. This position requires 25 hours per week and will assist the pastor and office manager in the daily operations of the parish office. Knowledge of Word and Excel is required along with the ability to learn Publisher, Google Calendar and Docs. The preferred applicant will be a prayerful, practicing Catholic with excellent organizational and interpersonal skills. Send resume to: Mater Dei Parish, Attention: Amanda Kincaid, 911 S.W. Clay, Topeka, KS 66606 or send an email to: amanda@ materdeiparish.org. Application deadline is Nov. 15.

Substitute teachers wanted! - Are you retired from teaching or a teacher staying home to raise children?

Could you use a few extra dollars? The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is looking for faith-filled substitute teachers at all levels from pre-K through 12th grade in our Catholic schools. We have many opportunities for the right candidate, and you can prioritize the schools, subjects and grades you wish to serve. Applicants should hold a Kansas teaching license, or be eligible for an emergency substitute license. For questions regarding substitute teaching, contact (913) 721-1570. To complete the application, go online to: www.archkckcs.org and click on “Employment.”

School cafeteria workers – Holy Spirit School is seeking school cafeteria workers willing to learn all duties in assigned areas including: production; preparation; storage of food/supplies; accountability; and safety/sanitation.

Workers may perform sales transactions and must interact with students in a friendly, service-oriented manner.

Compliance with sanitation and safety requirements is essential, and basic math skills are required. Shifts will be Monday – Friday during the lunch hour when school is in session. Previous kitchen/cafeteria experience preferred but not required. If interested, please contact Larry at: lgroce@hscatholic.org to schedule an interview.

Clinical hospice director - Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas has an immediate opening for a clinical hospice director. This role will successfully promote and support the mission of Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas as guided by the Catholic social teachings. The clinical director is responsible for the implementation, delivery, coordination and supervision of hospice services provided consistent with Catholic Community Hospice’s policies and procedures. For more information or to apply, visit: catholiccharitiesks.org.

Enrollment manager – Resurrection Catholic School is seeking a part-time enrollment manager for the 201920 school year. This individual must be fluent in both English and Spanish. The ideal candidate is organized, a self-starter, has strong written and verbal communication skills, feels comfortable initiating and maintaining conversation with others, and has experience with Microsoft Office and Google Suite. A bachelor’s degree is preferred. Marketing and sales experience are an asset.

Interested applicants should send a resume to principal Lynda Higgins at: lhiggins@rcskck.org.

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

Interior painting Update your ceilings and walls with a fresh coat of paint.

Cracks repaired with no mess!

Serving the Leaven readers for over 25 years.

Call Jerry anytime at (913) 206-1144.

Quality work - Kitchens, bathrooms, painting and home repairs. Nothing too big or too small. Insured. Call Jimmy at (913) 206-4524.

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

EL SOL Y LA TIERRA *Commercial & residential * Lawn renovation *Mowing * Clean-up and hauling * Dirt grading/installation * Landscape design * Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!! www.elsolylatierra.com Call Lupe at (816) 935-0176 Rusty Dandy Painting, Inc. – We have been coloring your world for 40 years. Your home will be treated as if it were our own. Old cabinets will be made to look like new. Dingy walls and ceilings will be made beautiful.

Woodwork will glow. Lead-certified and insured. Call (913) 341-9125.

Popcorn ceiling removal - Renew your ceiling and walls with a fresh coat of paint. Replace drywall or plaster repaired with no mess!! 25 years’ experience. Call Jerry anytime: (913) 206-1144.

Local handyman - Painting int. and ext., wood rot, power washing, staining, masonry (chimney repair, patio’s) gutter cleaning, water heaters, junk removal, lawn mowing, window cleaning, honey - do list and more!!

Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913)927-4118.

DRC Construction We’ll get the job done right the first time.

Windows - Doors - Decks - Siding Repair or replace, we will work with you to solve your problems. Choose us for any window, door, siding or deck project and be glad you did.

Everything is guaranteed 100% (913) 461-4052 www.windowservicesoverlandpark.com drcconswindows@gmail.com STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Free estimates. Call (913) 579-1835.

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

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

NELSON CREATION’S L.L.C. Affordable home remodeling: Kitchens, baths, basements and room additions.

All interior and exterior work.

Honest, dependable, experienced and family owned.

Licensed and insured. Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.

(913) 927-5240 or nelsport@everestkc.net

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

Mike Hammer local moving - A full-service mover.

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

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Bankruptcy consultation - If debts are overwhelming you, seek hope and help from compassionate, experienced Catholic attorney, Teresa Kidd. For a free consultation, call (913) 422-0610; send an email to: tkidd@ kc.rr.com; or visit the website at: www.teresakiddlawyer. com. Please do not wait until life seems hopeless before getting good quality legal advice that may solve your financial stress.

Loving marital mediation - Retired Catholic lawyer and certified mediator will mediate your marriage to MEND IT - NOT END IT. Mary Ellen Rose. (913) 381-6400.

8 to Your IdealWeight Get Real, Get Healthy, Get Empowered.

Release your weight and restore your power in 8 weeks! http://8toyouridealweight.com/coach/kathi/ Cleaning lady - Reasonable rates; references provided.

Call (913) 940-2959.

Clutter getting you down? - Organize, fix, assemble, install! “Kevin of all trades” your professional organizer and “Honey-do” specialist. Call or email me today for a free consultation at (913) 271-5055 or KOATorganizing@ gmail.com. Insured. References.

Garage Door Repair New Garage Doors Platinum Amarr dealer, Elite Home Advisor top rating.

Call Joe, mention The Leaven discount.

A Total Door (913) 236-6440.

Medicare supplements - Advantage plans and Part D. You have options. Let me help you find the best plan or rate for you. Local, licensed, independent and experienced Medicare adviser. Holy Cross parishioner. Contact Rhonda at (913) 579-3349.

Speedy Guzman Moving and delivery Licensed and insured Anytime (816) 935-0176 Custom countertops - Laminates installed within five days. Cambria, granite and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee.

HARCO Exteriors LLC Your Kansas City fencing specialists Family owned and operated (913) 815-4817 www.harcoexteriorsllc.com Diamond painting - Residential/commercial, exterior/ interior, decks, free estimates. Affordable rates. KCMO/ Overland Park metropolitan area. DiamonPaintKc.com, 913-648-4933 Rodman Lawn Care Lawn mowing, aeration, verticutting, mulching, Hedge trimming, leaf removal, gutter cleaning Fully insured and free estimates John Rodman (913) 548-3002

CAREGIVING Looking for assisted living at home? - Before you move, call us and explore our in-home care options. We specialize in helping families live safely at home while saving thousands of dollars per year. Call today for more information or to request a FREE home care planning guide. Benefits of Home - Senior Care, www.benefits ofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591.

Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation for seniors in their home, assisted living or nursing facilities.

We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Laurie, Pat or Gary.

Caregiver/retired nurse/housekeeper - Looking for live-in nursing job beginning the first of the year. Will maintain the home and care for client so he/she can stay in home. Has years of nursing experience. Call (913) 6021289.

Just like family - Let me care for your loved one in your home. Many years’ experience. Looking for night shift coverage, some days. Great price, great references.

Have experience with hospice care. Call Ophelia at (913) 579-7276.

Home care - Caregiver has CMA and 15 years’ experience. Has also had a background check. Please call (913) 999-4340.

Caregiver - CNA has many years of experience with elderly and dementia patients. Will do meal prep, doctor appointments, errands, medication setup and companionship. Call Johnna at (816) 786-1093.

FOR SALE Residential lifts - New and recycled. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. St. Michael’s parishioners. KC Lift & Elevator at (913) 327-5557. (Formerly Silver Cross - KC) >> Classifieds continue on page 15

NOVEMBER 8, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CALENDAR PANCAKE BREAKFAST St. Mary Parish 9208 Main St., St. Benedict Nov. 10 from 7:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Pancakes, scrambled eggs and sausage, along with orange juice, water and coffee will be served. The suggested donation is a freewill offering.

BREAKFAST WITH THE KNIGHTS Divine Mercy Parish Christian Formation Center 555 W. Main St., Gardner Nov. 10 from 7:30 - 10 a.m.

Join the fun and fellowship and enjoy a hearty breakfast of pancakes, sausage, eggs, biscuits and gravy, and all the fixings for the cost of $6 for adults; $3 for kids 6 - 12; kids 5 and under eat for free.

The program consists of music composed

by J.S. Bach and Buxtehude. Musicians are members of The Cathedral Schola, conducted by Dr. Mario Pearson; Father Paul Turner on harpsichord; and musicians of the Kansas City Symphony. For more information, send an email to: mpearson@kcgolddome.org or call (816) 842-0416.

WORLDWIDE MARRIAGE ENCOUNTER Kansas City area Nov. 15 - 17

A Worldwide Marriage Encounter weekend will provide you the tools and the time necessary to go deeper into the sacrament of marriage so you can live more intimately and responsibly as a couple. For more information, or to apply for a weekend, go to the website at: www.wwme4youandme.org or call/email Tony and Barb Zimmerman at (816) 741-4066, tonybarbz@prodigy.net.

POTLUCK HOLIDAY LUNCHEON Most Pure Heart of Mary (Formation Room) 3601 S.W. 17th St., Topeka Nov. 10 from 1 - 3 p.m.

The Christian widow and widowers organization will host the potluck dinner. There is no cost to attend. For more information, call (785) 233-7350.

BREAKFAST Sacred Heart Parish 106 Exchange St., Emporia Nov. 10 from 8 - 11 a.m.

The Knights of Columbus will host a pancake breakfast. The suggested donation is a freewill offering.

TALK ON ST. JOHN HENRY NEWMAN Holy Angels Parish 15440 Leavenworth Rd., Basehor Nov. 17 at 2:30 p.m.

Sister Kathleen Dietz, FSO, will make a presentation on the newly canonized saint as preacher, friend, convert and Catholic. There is no charge to attend.

MEMORIAL LITURGY Curé of Ars Parish 9405 Mission Rd., Leawood Nov. 16 at 8 a.m.

There will be a memorial liturgy for deceased loved ones followed by a grief support meeting in the Father Burak Room. The topic will be: “Count Your Blessings.” For more information, call (913) 649-2026.

FALL MEAL St. Ann Parish (center) 301 Williams St., Effingham Nov. 10 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

A meal of ham and beans or chicken and noodles will be served. Takeout is available; call (913) 833-2268. The cost is a freewill donation.

BENEFIT CONCERT Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral 415 W. 13th St., Kansas City, Missouri Nov. 10 at 7 p.m.

Olivier Latry, organist at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, will present a benefit recital for workers who lost their jobs as a result of the fire at Notre Dame Cathedral this past spring. The cost for tickets is: $30 for the general public; $15 for senior citizens (60 and above); and $10 for students. Tickets are available online at: www.chambermusic.org; go to “Season Calendar” and scroll down to “Special Performances.”

IMPLICIT BIAS AND DE-BIASING STRATEGIES Keeler Women’s Center 759 Vermont Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Nov. 14 from 1 - 2:30 p.m.

Implicit bias is defined as attitudes or stereotypes that affect our understanding, actions and decisions in an unconscious manner. These biases are activated involuntarily and without an individual’s awareness or intentional control. Learn strategies on how to de-bias your life.

AN EVENING OF BAROQUE MUSIC The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception 416 W. 12 St., Kansas City, Missouri Nov. 14 at 7 p.m.

USM FALL LUNCHEON Grand Street Cafe 4740 Grand Ave., Kansas City, Missouri Nov. 17 at 11 a.m.

The KC Alumni Council of the University of Saint Mary invites alumni, family and friends to its fall luncheon honoring Sister Susan Rieke, professor emerita of language and literature. The cost is $35 per person; additional contributions benefit students scholarships. RSVP to Maxine Mitchell Staggs at: Maxinestaggs@gmail.com or call (816) 304-3268.

DAUGHTERS OF ISABELLA LITTLE FLOWER CIRCLE Christ the King Parish (Yadrich Hall) 5972 S.W. 25th St., Topeka Nov. 17 at 12:30 p.m.

Following a Memorial Mass, there will be a business meeting and a social. If anyone knows of a member or family member in need of the circle’s prayers, call Bobbie Graff-Hendrixeson at (785) 271-0145. If you are interested in or would like more information about Daughters of Isabella, call Cindy Keen at (785) 228-9863.

ANNUAL ST. CECILIA MUSIC FESTIVAL Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception 416 W. 12th St., Kansas City, Missouri Nov. 17 at 3 p.m.

Come enjoy an afternoon of choral music and singing hymns of faith at the 11th annual St. Cecilia Music Festival. The cost to attend is a freewill donation.

SYMPTO-THERMAL METHOD OF NATURAL FAMILY PLANNING Johnson County Central Resource Library (Conference Room 1) 9875 W. 87th St., Overland Park Nov. 18 at 6:45 p.m.

A $35 fee is charged for this introductory class and may also be applied toward the cost of a complete NFP class series offered by the Couple to Couple League. To preregister for the class, as required, send an email to Alison and Allen Greenlief at: aagreenlief @gmail.com.

MAKE, BAKE, SHARE BREAD Marillac Center 4200 S. 4th St., Leavenworth Nov. 16 from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

This retreat of bread making as a prayer experience will be hosted by three Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth. There will be time for reflection and prayer during the kneading and rising, shaping and baking of dough, culminating with the invitation to be “Eucharist” for one another. The day will conclude with a simple lunch of bread and soup.

A freewill offering will be accepted for the program. Register by emailing: retreats@ scls.org or call (913) 758-6552.

PITCH TOURNAMENT Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish (hall) 27 Cottonwood St., Emporia Nov. 16 from 7 - 9 p.m.

The gameplay is standard 10-point pitch rules, and individuals will rotate between different partners each round for a collective personal score for each hand. Cash prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd places as well as door prizes. Refreshments will be provided.

Proceeds help support Sacred Heart’s youth group. For more information and rules, see SHoJ Pitch Tournament on its Facebook page.

‘UNIVERSALITY’ Church of the Nativity (Magi Room) 3800 W. 119th St., Leawood Nov. 16 at 9:15 a.m.

Come reflect on the topic of “Universality” in the tradition of Salesian spirituality with the Daughters of St. Francis de Sales after the 8:15 a.m. Mass. All materials are provided and coffee, and light refreshments will be served. To attend, contact Ruth Owens at: rowens4853@ gmail.com. For more information, visit the website at: www.sfds association.org.

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TAKE-A-LOOK THURSDAY Holy Spirit School 11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park Nov. 21 from 9 - 11 a.m.

Join us for information, tours of the school and refreshments. Choose a learning environment that is welcoming and Christcentered. For more information, call Anita Pauls at (913) 492-2582 or send an email to: apauls@hscatholic.org.

HEALING MASS Curé of Ars Parish 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood Nov. 21 at 7:30 p.m.

A Mass with prayers for healing, sponsored by archdiocesan charismatic prayer groups, will be held. Father Peter Jaramillo will preside. For more information, call (913) 649-2026.

ADVENT RETREAT Christ’s Peace House of Prayer 22131 Meagher Rd., Easton Nov. 22 - 24

The retreat will begin Friday, Nov. 22, at 5:30 p.m. and end on Sunday, Nov. 24, at 4:30 p.m. Take time to prepare for the coming of our Lord on this Advent retreat. There will be conferences, eucharistic adoration, Mass, confession and time for private prayer, reflection and walking. There are cabins/ courtyard rooms: $170 single/$150 couple or single guest rooms for $80. To attend, send an email to: info@christspeace.com or call (913) 773-8255.

SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION RETREAT Conception Abbey Guest Center 37174 State Hwy. VV, Conception, MO Nov. 22 - 24

Experience the intimacy, joy and peace of being reconciled with God. For more information or to register, call (660) 944-2809 or go online to: guests@conception.edu.

DIVORCED: CALLED TO LOVE AGAIN Church of the Ascension (St. Luke Room) 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park 2nd and 4th Sundays from 7 - 8:30 p.m.

What’s next after divorce/annulment? Join us for a formation series on the gift of self, which helps us fulfill the call to love again.

Various topics will be discussed. Visit our Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/ giftofself143 or send an email to: called tolove143@gmail.com. There will be no meeting on Nov. 10 or Dec. 22.

‘GIVING TRANSFORMS YOU’ Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish 106 Exchange St., Emporia Nov. 20 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Come listen to Bill Eckert and others speak at this seminar on planned giving and enjoy lunch during this educational talk. Learn about ways to minimize the effect of taxes, maximize your legacy and be transformed by giving. For an agenda, details and to register, go online to: www.archkck.org/Emporia Seminar or call (913) 647-0365.

‘PRAYERFUL PAUSES - PRAYING WITH OUR LOVED ONES IN THE COMMUNION OF SAINTS’ Sophia Spirituality Center 751 S. 8th St., Atchison Nov. 21 from 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Remembering the stories of our deceased loved ones keeps their love alive. We will talk about how they touched our lives and how we are giving witness to their influence today. The day will begin with spiritual sharing and joining the Sisters in the monastery for lunch. The afternoon will be your time.

The $30 fee includes the noon meal. Scholarships are available. For more information or to register, call (913) 360-6173 or go online to: www.sophiaspiritualitycenter.org.

MOTHER OF PERPETUAL HELP DEVOTIONS Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish 7023 W. 71st. St., Overland Park Tuesday evenings at 6:30 p.m.

Come join this group, which prays this devotion weekly. Prayer includes the Mother of Perpetual Help novena and Benediction. For more information, call Martin at (913) 213-8810.

SUPPORT GROUP FOR VICTIMS/ SURVIVORS OF SEXUAL ABUSE Johnson County area Twice monthly

This will be a safe, supportive environment to talk about the impact to your lives, to know you are not alone, and to promote healing. To protect the privacy of potential participants, contact Linda Slater-Trimble for information on days, times and location of meetings by email at: lslater-trimble@archkck.org; or by phone at (913) 298-9244. Must be at least 18 years of age to participate.

CALENDAR submissions CALENDAR submissions DEADLINE: Noon, Thursday, 10 days before the desired publication date.

INCLUDE: time and date of event; street address; description of event.

SEND SUBMISSIONS TO: beth. blankenship@theleaven.org.

NOVEMBER 8, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY THIRTY-SECOND WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Nov. 10 THIRTY-SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME 2 Mc 7: 1-2, 9-14 Ps 17: 1, 5-6, 8, 15 2 Thes 2:16 – 3:5 Lk 20: 27-38 Nov. 11 Martin of Tours, bishop Wis 1: 1-7 Ps 139: 1b-10 Lk 17: 1-6 Nov. 12 Josaphat, bishop, martyr Wis 2:23 – 3:9 Ps 34: 2-3, 16-19 Lk 17: 7-10 Nov. 13 Frances Xavier Cabrini, virgin Wis 6: 1-11 Ps 82: 3-4, 6-7 Lk 17: 11-19 Nov. 14 Thursday Wis 7:22b – 8:1 Ps 119: 89-91, 130, 135, 175 Lk 17: 20-25 Nov. 15 Albert the Great, bishop, doctor of the church Wis 13: 1-9 Ps 19: 2-5b Lk 17: 26-37 Nov. 16 Margaret of Scotland; Gertrude, virgin Wis 18: 14-16; 19: 6-9 Ps 105: 2-3, 36-37, 42-43 Lk 18: 1-8

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The days are shorter, so lighten up

fter hearing some foul language and watching a bowler on the lane next to me kick the ball return in frustration, I thought to myself, “Now, here’s somebody who can use Nov. 14!”

I wanted to remind the guy that we’re not on the pro bowlers’ tour.

We’re in a Monday night mixed league in Lawrence, for Pete’s sake.

But I thought that night wasn’t the best time to bring that up. I kind of like my teeth inside my mouth.

So, what’s the big deal with Nov. 14?

Surely, everyone knows that it’s LuLu Day, right?

Just in case you’re one of the millions on this planet unfamiliar with this celebration, LuLu is short for Loosen Up, Lighten Up Day. And, boy, do most of us need that! A prime candidate is the German woman in the following story: Maria Brunner, of Poing, Germany, was married to an unemployed husband. As the mother of three children, she supported them by cleaning other people’s houses.

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MARK MY WORDS

FATHER MARK GOLDASICH Father Mark is the pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie. He has been editor of The Leaven since 1989.

Even without a job, her husband managed to rack up $5000 worth of unpaid parking tickets. The husband kept the tickets a secret.

As owner of the car, however, Maria was responsible for them. She couldn’t pay the fine and, unless her husband could come up with the money, Maria would spend three months in jail.

She welcomed the thought. “I’ve had enough of scraping for a living,” said Maria. “As long as I get food and a hot shower every day,

I don’t mind being sent to jail. I can finally get some rest and relaxation.”

Police reported that Maria repeatedly thanked them for arresting her. (Adapted from “1001 Illustrations That Connect,” edited

by Craig Brian Larson and Phyllis Ten Elshof.)

In a very unscientific poll I conducted, nine out of 10 people said their lives were stressful. (And that tenth person, I’d bet, was a liar!)

It’s symptomatic of the world that we live in today. We’re so busy rushing from one thing to the next that we forget what’s really important and to be cherished.

Is it any wonder, then, that those of us

who live in the First World, with all of its conveniences and blessings, still find ourselves unsatisfied and wanting something more?

And with the crush and craziness of the holiday season looming — “What do you mean there are only seven more Mondays till Christmas?” — we need LuLu Day more than ever.

How can you celebrate Lighten Up Loosen Up Day this year? Here are some quick suggestions: • Attend Mass. Yes, there are Masses at times other than the weekend. Weekday Masses are simpler and quieter and can lighten your burdens.

• Make time to cook and enjoy a family meal, followed by a movie or game night.

• Take a break from the news, social media, the smartphone and email.

• Relax with a good book or hobby.

•Try something new, like a painting class, a trip to a theater production, yodeling or whatever interests you never make time for.

• Get moving. Take

a walk outside, visit a gym or go dancing.

• Spend some time in a quiet church to drink in the silence and rest with the Lord.

• Meet up with a friend for an unhurried meal.

Since Nov. 14 is on a Thursday (and most of us have to work), at least consider a few hours in the evening for keeping LuLu Day this time around.

In the future, you might want to designate Nov. 14 each year as a mental health day and plan on taking time off from your normal duties just to celebrate life.

See what happens to your mind and heart celebrating LuLu Day. And, if you enjoyed loosening up and lightening up, try doing it each week on the Sabbath. Really.

The Trappist monk Thomas Merton said it best: “Happiness is not a matter of intensity, but of balance and order and rhythm and harmony.”

Get it on your calendar now, before you forget, to cut loose and see the light on Nov. 14.

Maccabees lays groundwork of afterlife doctrine

s the leaves fall and the weather turns colder, it looks as though nature itself is dying, at least temporarily.

It is understandable that our thoughts direct themselves to the afterlife. This weekend’s first reading — 2 Mc 7:1-2, 9-14 — then comes at an appropriate moment.

It presents the first explicit statement of belief in the resurrection from the dead that we encounter in the Bible.

The seven brothers willingly undergo martyrdom because they believe that God will reward them in the next life. One of them says: “It is my choice to die at the hands of men with the hope God gives of being raised up by him.”

Elsewhere, the same book gives evidence of

IN THE BEGINNING

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

the Jewish practice of praying for the dead.

Judas Maccabeus has offered a sacrifice on behalf of some dead soldiers:

“In doing this, he acted in a very excellent and noble way, inasmuch as he had the resurrection of the dead in view. If he were not expecting the fallen to rise again, it would have been useless and foolish to pray for them in death. But if he did this with a view to the splendid reward that awaits those who have gone to rest in godliness, it was a holy and

POPE FRANCIS After listening to indigenous people and church leaders at the Synod of Bishops on the Amazon, the Catholic Church cannot remain indifferent to the suffering of the region’s people, Pope Francis said.

“The cry of the poor, together with that of the earth, came to us from the Amazon,” the pope said during his Sunday Angelus address. “After these three weeks, we cannot pretend that we have not heard it.”

pious thought” (2 Mc 12:43b-45).

The early Christians continued this practice, which eventually gave rise to the doctrine of purgatory.

It is significant that here the writer is trying to make a case for the resurrection of the dead.

He uses the practice of praying for the dead to prove his point, but his emphasis is upon resurrection.

Similarly, the same book offers an example of a deceased person praying for the living: “Then in the same way another man appeared, distinguished by his white hair and dignity, and with an air about him of extraordinary, majestic authority. Onias then said of him, ‘This is God’s prophet Jeremiah, who loves his brethren and fervently prays for

his people and their holy city” (2 Mc 15:13-14).

Jeremiah had been dead for many years. This vision of him anticipates our belief that the saints in heaven intercede for us. Once again, this belief rests upon the foundation of the belief in the resurrection of the dead.

To summarize, the Second Book of Maccabees lays the groundwork for three doctrines concerning the afterlife: intercession by the saints in heaven, the efficacy of prayer for the dead and the resurrection of the dead.

Of these three, the doctrine of the resurrection of the dead is foundational. But even that rests in a belief in a just and merciful God. If God does not bring justice to us in this life, that will happen in the next.

The pope shared his thoughts about the synod Oct. 27 as he greeted pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square; he had just finished celebrating the synod’s final Mass.

The synod, he said, was a time of “a walking together,” engaging in sincere dialogue “without hiding difficulties” and “experiencing the beauty of going forward united.”

Pope Francis told the crowd that in the second reading at the day’s Mass, St. Paul, aware of his imminent death, expressed hope that “through me the proclamation might be completed.” St. Paul’s last wish, the pope said, was not for himself but that the Gospel “be proclaimed to all nations.”

— CNS

NOVEMBER 8, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY

Praying, caring and sharing: reaching your three and 12

W

hen I was diagnosed with

non-Hodgkins lymphoma in 2018, my mind was swirling to find the best treatment plan, how to be the best version of me and how to say the important things that needed to be said to those near me. I was rocked to the core, but my focus became keen.

While sitting down for my first eight-hour chemo infusion, I wrote down much of what I know from Jesus and the teachings of the church about passing on the faith.

My friends and colleagues took that very rough “chemo draft,”

“E

15

SEEKING CHRIST’S HEART

DEACON DANA NEARMYER Deacon Dana Nearmyer is the director of evangelization for the archdiocese.

added missing pieces and are making two books out of it.

One of those books “Enflame Our Hearts, Homes and Communities” will be free and e-published before Christmas in English and Spanish. This should be a useful tool for each of us to better pray, care and share with those precious to us.

Who is precious to

you? How do you Invest your heart and soul into them? How do you share moments and give encouragement?

Each day is a such a treasure to be unpacked with Jesus, friends and family. We have developed a website with great tools and encouragement for passing on the treasures of our faith.

Go online to: archkck. org/Enflame to build up your toolkit for praying, caring and sharing.

Don’t wait to build a plan to pass on these treasures. It takes time and hard-earned trust to build those bonds.

Check out our “Crowds to Three” plan to do like Jesus did and invest in your 3-12-72crowds. Jesus invested

time in his three — Peter, James and John —and his Twelve Apostles. He sent the 72 and spoke to the crowds.

One thousand five hundred convocation delegates, some from every parish, utilized these tools.

These tools are open to you online at: www. archkck.org/Enflame. We encourage you to discern with these tools.

We are refining the resources based on feedback for the Lent 2020 launch of “Enflame Our Hearts, Homes and Communities,” but you can get a head start in adopting prayer, care and share practices.

Many face-to-face opportunities are being offered to “Enflame Your Heart.” Check out the

Called and Gifted workshops, Village Fires and other opportunities on our website.

Camp Tekakwitha will be forming families, staff and our 5th- through 12th-grade campers in prayer, care and share living, developing our soul’s desire to “Enflame our Hearts, Homes and Communities.” Camp registration is open online at: www.archkck/ camp.

I am now out of treatment for my cancer and my prognosis is good; every moment is so precious. I pray for God to guide us to care for those around us and to share the treasures of being Catholic. Join me: Invest in your three and 12.

Within each school, super finds himself on holy ground

ach child is a masterpiece of God, created with precision for a specific purpose.”

These words are so much more than a motto or a slogan for our archdiocesan Catholic schools.

These words summarize the mission and focus of the 42 schools, 13,823 students and 1,075 faculty members in our schools.

These words guide us both in passing on our faith to our students and providing effective academic programs.

Since the beginning of the school year in the middle of August, I have

FROM THE SUPER

VINCE CASCONE Vince Cascone is the superintendent of archdiocesan schools.

visited 31 of the schools in the archdiocese.

As I walk into each of these schools, I am

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reminded of the song “This Is Holy Ground.”

The first verse of the song goes as follows: This is holy ground We’re standing on holy ground For the Lord is present And where he is, is holy

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This is holy ground We’re standing on holy ground For the Lord is present And where he is, is holy.

The Lord is surely present in our schools. Our schools are holy spaces because our precious children are there to be formed in the faith and to help them to realize the specific purpose Our Lord has for each one of them.

As I have toured each school, meeting teachers and students, I have seen so many wonderful things.

I have been so impressed, from the student ambassadors at St. Patrick School in Kansas City, Kansas, who

told their principal, Dr. Tim Conrad, that they wanted to have religion class more often, to the students at St. Agnes in Roeland Park who were repairing bicycles for the poor, building rockets and were developing their engineering skills as a part of their STREAM (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Arts, Math) curriculum.

I have been amazed, from the students attending adoration in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament to the students learning higher level math skills in math hubs at various schools.

I wish each of you had the opportunity to see the great things that are

happening in our archdiocesan schools. I wish you were able to meet, as I have, the dedicated school administrators and faculty members who strive on a daily basis to bring our children closer to Our Lord while, at the same time, helping each child to realize and develop his/her skills.

Our schools are charged with the goal of helping to lead our children to heaven. We are also charged with providing the most effective academic programs possible. We are doing this because: “Each Child is a masterpiece of God, created with precision for a specific purpose.”

NOVEMBER 8, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

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LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Jade Baker, (sitting on the floor) a member of St. Agnes Parish in Roeland Park, volunteers with the middle school youth group at St. Ann Parish in Prairie Village. As a young woman, Baker feels she can offer some guidance to middle and high schoolers who may be struggling.

‘I COULD DO MORE’

Young professionals donate time, talent to teach the faith

By Olivia Martin olivia.martin@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — They never planned to spend time each weekend hanging out with kids. And they certainly didn’t go to college to be teachers.

But that hasn’t stopped young professionals around the archdiocese from volunteering with youth groups every Sunday.

For Jade Baker, a St. Agnes, Roeland Park, parishioner and new Catholic, motivation to get involved sprung from love of the faith — and an awareness of a need. When serving on the board of her college sorority, Baker noticed that young women seem to come to her for advice, even if they don’t know her well.

“It got me thinking about my own experiences growing up in the Protestant church and what youth group looked like for me,” said Baker.

“Oftentimes, it was male youth pastors or really old women leading youth or women’s Bible studies,” she said, “and I never felt like I had a young adult female who I could go to with real middle school and high school struggles.”

So, after getting in touch with a friend of hers who was the youth ministry coordinator at St. Ann Parish in

“

“I NEVER FELT LIKE I HAD A YOUNG ADULT FEMALE WHO I COULD GO TO WITH REAL MIDDLE SCHOOL AND HIGH SCHOOL STRUGGLES.” Prairie Village, Baker began helping out with that parish’s middle school youth group each Sunday.

But she isn’t helping to lead it — the high schoolers do that. They plan and organize each week’s youth group and the adults supervise.

“The commitment that these high school kids have to the program [has surprised me],” said Baker, “and how confident and intelligent they are. They are really impressive young adults, impressive high schoolers.”

Though they are much younger, that’s how Gabrielle Siegler, a St. Agnes parishioner, feels about her kindergarten and first-grade School of Religion students.

“They’re quite a bit smarter sometimes than you think they might be,” said Siegler. “That has been one of the most exciting things for me.”

John Shaughnessey, also a St. Agnes

parishioner and a School of Religion volunteer, agrees.

And he’s found that teaching his fifth-grade students has reawakened him to the mystery of many aspects of the faith.

“Some of the stuff these kids are learning is really complicated,” said Shaughnessy. “Lots of times, I just don’t even think about those things that much. Then, when the kids ask hard questions about things like the Trinity, it makes me think about why I believe it and how to explain it.”

It pays to volunteer It’s one thing to volunteer every now and then, and it’s another to make a commitment out of it.

And Shaughnessy has certainly committed — he has been volunteering as a School of Religion teacher at St. Agnes for three years.

“I did it for the whole time, talent, treasure thing,” said Shaughnessy.

“You’re not just supposed to tithe, but you’re supposed to donate time.”

The idea to donate time via teaching came from Shaughnessy’s mom, who has taught religious education longer than he can remember. And Shaughnessy finds himself going to her for classroom resources and tips.

Siegler’s journey to becoming a School of Religion volunteer was based

on her experience as well.

“I taught Sunday school when I was in high school and I really liked it,” said Siegler. “It was the time of year Father Bill [Porter, the pastor] was talking about vocations [at Mass], and I just felt like I could do more.”

Siegler has, indeed, found sharing the faith with the youth to be very gratifying.

“My students are pretty young, so they’re still learning the Sign of the Cross and the Lord’s Prayer and things like that,” she said. “It’s been kind of inspiring because you really can be a part of helping shape their experiences in the church.”

And though it isn’t always apparent, Baker says she knows, too, that her service makes a difference.

“Sometimes, it just feels like you are hanging out with middle schoolers and high schoolers,” said Baker. “That’s the hard part; it doesn’t feel like you’re making an impact. “[But] just my being here is important and I don’t need to have some groundbreaking conversation with them every time we get together for this work to matter.”

For Baker, the youth group itself has been a witness of faith and goodness to her.

“It is so good to see high school men and women interact with one another in a way that is building up their community,” said Baker.