12 16 22 Vol. 44 No. 18

ANYTHING AND EVERYTHING

Parish auction has something for everyone

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

WETMORE — If you always wanted to bid on a Vermeer, then St. James Parish here on Dec. 3 was the place to be.

No, not THAT Vermeer.

A painting by the 17th-century Dutch master Johannes Vermeer WAS NOT sold at the annual St. James consignment auction. Rather, it was another genuine Vermeer — a Vermeer WR22 10-wheel hay rake.

The Vermeer and a lot of farm, farm-related and construction equipment were sold at the auction, which is the major annual fundraiser for this small, rural parish of about 30 families in Nemaha County.

This was a great, although cold, time for an auction according to Tim Rowland, St. James parishioner and auction volunteer.

“We have a big agriculture draw, and we feel this is a good time,” he said. “It’s

not planting, it’s not harvesting, it’s not haying season. Hopefully, people are coming in with end-of-year money to spend. And we have really good pies.”

Ah, yes, there is the fundraising breakfast and dinner in the warm parish hall. They had locally produced pork for the breakfast of biscuits and

gravy, and locally produced beef for the hamburgers. The pies were homemade.

“The pecan pies were made with pecans from southeast Kansas,” said Rowland.

Smaller items were sold from big, gooseneck trailers in the church parking lot. Larger items were sold from two vacant lots near the church.

There was the big stuff: combines, mowers, several pickup trucks, a semitruck, tractors and trailers. There was a brush auger, no-till seed drills, plows, rotary cutters and squeeze chutes.

Need an ambulance? One was for sale.

There were no baroque paintings but there was art at the auction — a statue of the Three Stooges playing golf.

There were a lot of other smaller things for sale, too: chairs, doors, bolts, an antique buffet, buckets of belts and bolts, cassette tapes, CDs, air compressors, fence posts, filing cabinets, firewood, hay, nails, a saxophone, a talking Teddy Ruxpin, a typewriter, windows and more. And there were

tools, tools

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Rodney Burdiek, a member of St. James Parish in Wetmore, displays some wrenches up for bid at the St. James consignment auction on Dec. 3.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Allen Baker with his boys Ethan, 3 — on the dirt bike — and Bryce, 6 — on the lawn mower — have fun on the auction offerings. They are parishioners of St. Bede, Kelly.

Celebrate the Lord’s birthday by helping to do his work

Irecently received a handwritten letter addressed to me and “The Wonderful People of Catholic Charities” with a major gift to our annual Archbishop’s Call to Share campaign. The letter said the following:

“25 years ago, you gave me clothes so I could interview for a job.

“17 years ago, you gave me counseling as I was making my way back from failed suicide attempts.

“12.5 years ago, I sobered up.

“Today, my family and I thank you for seeing in me what I could not see in myself — that all life is precious, has a potential intrinsic from God and should be treated with dignity.

“Never underestimate the power of the work you do, nor the impact you have in people’s lives. God has and continues to work through you. Keep up the great work!!!”

Letters like this are a great encouragement to me. They are reminders to me of the beautiful expressions of mercy and love happening every day because of the goodness of our Catholic community. The church is composed of human beings. We do not claim to be perfect. We are a community of recovering sinners who are striving to follow the example of Jesus who came to serve and not be served.

This past Saturday, I attended a Christmas party hosted by the Franciscan Friars and Sisters of the Fraternity the Poor of Jesus Christ. The party was at Blessed Sacrament Parish in Kansas City, Kansas. If you are not familiar with this religious community, they were founded a few decades ago in Brazil. Their charism is to serve the homeless and the poor. They also do street ministry and evangelization. Their first foundation in the United States is here in Kansas City, Kansas.

Each week, the friars, Sisters and some of their lay associates visit the homeless where they live in small communities under highway overpasses or in abandoned fields in

ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN

Kansas and Missouri. The friars and Sisters consider these men and women, who have fallen upon hard times for a variety of reasons, their friends and, actually, part of their family.

The Sisters and friars arranged for buses and vans to pick up the homeless and bring them to Blessed Sacrament for the Christmas celebration. With the help of their benefactors and volunteers, each person attending received some practical gifts and a delicious meal. A children’s choir sang Christmas carols during the meal. Some of the lay members provided the opportunity for the attendees to receive a haircut and/or manicure. For those who wanted, the Sisters and friars arranged also the chance for a warm shower.

There was good attendance at the Christmas celebration because the homeless consider the friars and Sisters their friends and family. The Sisters, friars and their lay associates make an effort to reach out to the homeless on their turf. The friars and Sisters do not just throw an annual Christmas party for the poor, but they visit them consistently throughout the year. They treat those who are on the margins of society with great respect, dignity and love.

A couple of weeks ago, I accompanied the Little Brothers and Sisters of the Lamb to visit the young people in the Kansas Juvenile Correctional Complex in Topeka. One of our very dedicated priests, Father Joe Chontos, serves as a chaplain for the juvenile jail.

Father Chontos is a Good Shepherd for

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS

Catholic Charities. I am grateful for this wonderful tradition in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.

this community of troubled young people. He knows each by name. Father Chontos attempts to bring the love of Jesus to these young men and women who have made some serious mistakes early in their lives.

Usually, the Little Sisters and Brothers of the Lamb perform a short play or drama for the residents of the prison. This year, however, because the facility is short of staff, it was not possible to gather the young people in a large group. Instead, we visited each of the pods (cellblocks). The Sisters and Brothers sang hymns and shared brief passages from the Bible, reminding these young people of their dignity and of God’s love for them.

Every night, the Sisters, Servants of Mary go into the homes of the dying and seriously ill to give their families an opportunity to rest. They bring into these homes, where there is much suffering, the hope of the Gospel and the compassionate love of Jesus. Consecrated religious are witnesses to the love of Jesus and heralds of his Gospel of life.

I share these experiences with you to give you a glimpse of the beauty of some of the church’s ministries. There is so much good that is happening every day. Each of you participate in these miracles of grace by your support of Catholic Charities, the Fraternity the Poor of Jesus Christ, the Community of the Lamb, the Sisters, Servants of Mary or one of the other amazing religious communities serving in the archdiocese.

Each year, everyone attending Christmas Masses in our archdiocese is offered the opportunity to support the beautiful work of

On the day that we recall how God humbled himself to enter into our human condition by being born in an animal shelter in Bethlehem, it is more than appropriate that we make a sacrificial gift to the church’s effort to make the love of Jesus real for the poor and the marginalized. The Christmas story reminds us that Jesus, Mary and Joseph were homeless, poor and refugees.

Nothing could please Jesus more than commemorating his birthday by helping Catholic Charities bring the love of God and the joy of his Gospel to those who are struggling and hurting. When you make a Christmas donation to help Catholic Charities, consider it your birthday present to Jesus.

ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN’S CALENDAR

Dec. 16

Shalom House open house — Kansas City, Kansas Dec. 16-18

“Quo Vadis” retreat — Savior Pastoral Center, Kansas City, Kansas Dec. 18

40th jubilee of Father Francis Bakyor — Immaculate Conception, Louisburg Dec. 19

“Shepherd’s Voice” recording — chancery

CEF Scholarship parents Mass — residence Dec. 21

Jesus Covenant Prayer Partner call Dec. 22

Communio update with Tory Baucum Dec. 23

Chancery staff Christmas Mass and lunch — chancery Dec. 24

Christmas Vigil Mass (4 p.m.) — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas

Christmas Vigil Mass (10 p.m.) — Cathedral Dec. 25

Christmas Day Mass — Holy Cross, Overland Park

SEEING RED Red

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

LATHE — Each year, the owner of a motorcycle bar receives a list of items needed by the Red Bag organization.

And without fail, a group of bikers provides the gifts that will be opened by children in need on Christmas.

Meanwhile, a women’s exercise group is busy gathering items for the same cause.

“It’s unbelievable the variety of people that come together,” said Red Bag family coordinator Bill Gray. “It is miraculous.”

It all started with a home visit 38 years ago.

Daniel Jacobs, who worked for Kansas City Power and Light, was tasked with checking on a family in Edgerton whose electricity would be shut off due to unpaid bills.

“He noticed the family was struggling,” said Oliver Jacobs, Daniel’s son. “It was a family with young children that were sleeping on a dirt floor inside.

“They had a tree for Christmas. It was like a little, itty-bitty Charlie Brown Christmas tree in a pot.”

Daniel went home and gathered his five children.

“He said, ‘I’m thinking about doing Christmas for another family, and we would have a little less for our family this year. What do you think about doing that?’” recalled Jacobs.

The children agreed, and with additional help from friends and colleagues, they were able to gather gifts and put together an abundant Christmas for the family.

“Here we are 38 years later,” said Jacobs. “It started with one family, and now we’re [helping] 1,721 foster kids today.

“It’s just wonderful.”

Community effort

Daniel founded Christmas Families, a 501(c)(3) organization, shortly after helping that initial family. It continued to grow, and eventually the Red Bag program was launched.

Red Bag has since provided tens of

thousands of children with Christmas gifts.

It remains a living legacy for Daniel, who was a longtime parishioner of St. Ann Parish in Prairie Village before he passed away in 2017.

Each year, businesses, churches, families, schools and other groups purchase and wrap gifts for children and families in need and place them inside large red bags.

On Red Bag Saturday, held this year on Dec. 3 at the Ball Event Center in Olathe, participants delivered the red bags, and volunteers sorted through them before loading them onto trucks.

The bags will eventually be distributed to foster children and families across the Kansas City Metro area.

“We’ll do rural families, inner-city families,” said Gray. “There’s not a county in the metro area that we haven’t been in at one time or another.”

This year, along with the 1,721 foster children, 55 families were chosen as Red Bag recipients.

“We try to get families that are trying hard, they’re working, but probably wouldn’t have a Christmas without us,” said Gray.

Among the plethora of gifts collected were 110 bicycles.

A handful of archdiocesan schools participate in Red Bag each year, including St. Ann School in Prairie Village, a key contributor since the program’s early years.

This year, St. Ann collected more than 225 red bags for 154 children.

‘The best medicine possible’

“A lot of [volunteers] say this is the beginning of their Christmas,” said

treasurer and overall coordinator Ed Weiser about Red Bag Saturday.

Weiser and Daniel were longtime friends, and one instance in particular stands out when Weiser thinks about Daniel’s dedication to Red Bag.

Daniel was receiving treatment at a rehabilitation facility for his health, but that didn’t stop him from attending Red Bag Saturday.

Daniel sat outside in a motorized chair so he could be mobile while he welcomed each car dropping off their presents.

“The day was bitterly cold,” said Weiser, “but that did not deter Daniel one bit.

“Blankets were located to wrap him. Hot drinks and soup were brought to him as he refused to go inside and leave his [post where he was] greeting each and every person.”

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

Red Bag Ladies Lauren Johnson, left, and Stacy Tindell sort through a plethora of red bags on Dec. 3. Red Bag Ladies play a key role in the Red Bag program, which has provided Christmas gifts to tens of thousands of children and families since it was created nearly 40 years ago.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

Oliver Jacobs, son of Red Bag founder Daniel Jacobs, carries bags filled with Christmas presents to a truck during Red Bag Saturday on Dec. 3 at the Ball Event Center in Olathe. This year, the Red Bag program will provide 1,721 foster children and 55 families with Christmas gifts.

Snow Ball provides an opportunity to serve neighbors in need

By Analisa Bregant Special to The Leaven

The annual Snow Ball is a beloved tradition for many families in the Kansas City area, including this year’s 49th annual Snow Ball presidents and Church of the Ascension parishioners, Kevin and Pam Kramer.

The Kramers’ own family Snow Ball tradition spans four decades, beginning with Kevin’s parents and extending to their daughters’ attendance at this year’s event.

Kevin and Pam began coming to Snow Ball as a young married couple. Their personal involvement in the event grew when they were extended an invitation to a parish party and later asked to be part of the Snow Ball Committee. Ever since that first parish party, Kevin and Pam have regularly attended the Snow Ball and been active volunteers within Catholic Charities.

“We were humbled to be asked to serve as Snow Ball presidents, particularly knowing the footsteps in which we follow, and the importance of Snow Ball in the work of Catholic Charities,” said Pam.

The couple and their daughters had previously volunteered at the original Shalom House, cooking and serving meals to men experiencing homelessness. Over the last six months, they have worked in different capacities within the agency.

“When we were asked to take on this role as presidents, Pam challenged us both to identify ways we can get more involved,” said Kevin.

Over the past half year, Kevin has helped welcome seven refugee families into the Kansas City area. Catholic Charities’ Refugee & Immigration Services move-in program helps newly arrived refugees feel at home in their new surroundings by providing lodging, groceries, clothing and kindness. Program volunteers help set up a home for the family, greet the family at the airport, drive them to their new residence and help them shop for groceries and clothing at TurnStyles Thrift Store.

During this past fiscal year, Catholic Charities resettled 469 refugees, including 235 who fled Afghanistan during the humanitarian crisis. These refugees received case management and other services, including employment support, English language learning and citizenship preparation classes.

“Catholic Charities does not only provide a roof over their heads or furniture in their house, they provide these families with wraparound services to help ingrain them into our community,” said Kevin.

Pam has focused her involvement with Catholic Charities in the agency’s TurnStyles Thrift Store ministry. TurnStyles provides sustainable, affordable shopping to the Kansas City area.

Not only is the thrift store a place to shop for secondhand items, but refugee families and other people in need are able to access donations

from the store. Plus, all proceeds from TurnStyles go toward funding Catholic Charities programs.

“We are impressed by the breadth of Catholic Charities’ work and all that they do to help strengthen individuals and families who need it most,” said Kevin. “The broad range of services offered sets the agency apart from other local nonprofit organizations. Catholic Charities’ programs are also always evolving. They are great about responding to the current needs of our society.”

The Kramers urge Catholics and people of all faiths to engage in the mission of Catholic Charities by joining them at the Snow Ball this year.

“Unlike most events, at Snow Ball there is no ask,” said Kevin. “The evening

is truly one of fellowship and celebrating those in our community who answer the call to generously help their neighbors in need.”

Young adults are also welcome to attend the gala and are invited to join Snowflake, the young professionals group.

“We recognize the importance of future leaders and charitable givers in our community,” said Pam. “Snowflake lays the foundation for the next generation who are interested in supporting the mission of Catholic Charities.”

The event’s proceeds support Catholic Charities’ mission of providing help, hope and hospitality to the most vulnerable through more than 30 programs.

“We rely on Snow Ball funds to assist with the areas of greatest need within our agency,” said Lauren Solidum, Catholic Charities CEO and president.

“This is especially critical now as we experience a greater number of people accessing our services, many for the first time, as the costs of food and housing continue to rise due to inflation,” she said.

“Snow Ball offers a tangible way to impact those we serve,” she added.

Registration for Snow Ball closes on Dec. 29. To register for the event or to make a patron gift, visit the website at: snowballgala.org.

Office to close at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, KCK K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Catholic Cemeteries of Northeast Kansas has announced that it will be closing its office at Mt. Calvary Cemetery here, located at 38th and State Ave., effective Dec. 31. The office building has been purchased by an entity not affiliated with cemetery operations.

“Our family service advisers will continue to meet with individuals and families at Mt. Calvary but by appointment only,” said Bryan Alonzo, director of sales and marketing. Appointments can be made by calling Catholic Cemeteries’ main office at (913) 371-4040. Meeting space is available in the mausoleum at the cemetery.

Mt. Calvary has 99% of its capacity sold. As with all properties managed by Catholic Cemeteries, the location will continue to receive perpetual care (mowing, upkeep, etc.).

Alonzo added that Gate of Heaven Cemetery — located some 12 miles west at 126th and Parallel Pkwy. — has ample space and land for current use and for future development. Gate of Heaven features the Holy Redeemer Mausoleum, lawn crypts, traditional ground burial, a columbarium, glass front niches, the Veterans Memorial and Veterans Section, and a child/infant section. The cemetery occupies approximately 40 acres in western Wyandotte County.

For more information, call the main office; send and email to: information@ cathcemks.org; or visit the website at: cathcemks.org.

Michael and Linda Huston, members of Mother Teresa of Calutta Parish, Topeka, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Nov. 11. The couple was married on Nov. 11, 1972, at Sacred Heart Church, Topeka. They have two children: Scott Huston and Erica Lichtenauer, both of Topeka. They also have eight grandchildren. They will celebrate their anniversary at a later date.

ANNIVERSARY SUBMISSIONS

POLICY: The Leaven prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th anniversary notices. They are for parishioners in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas

DEADLINE: 10 days before the desired publication date.

INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:

• The couple’s names

• their parish

• the date they were married

• church and city where they were married

• what they are doing to celebrate

• date of the celebration

• names of children (no spouses)

• number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren;

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

COURTESY PHOTO

Pam and Kevin Kramer, members of Church of the Ascension in Overland Park, are the presidents of the 49th annual Snow Ball, a major fundraiser for Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas.

THIS IS ESPECIALLY CRITICAL NOW AS WE EXPERIENCE A GREATER NUMBER OF PEOPLE ACCESSING OUR SERVICES, MANY FOR THE FIRST TIME.

LAUREN SOLIDUM CATHOLIC CHARITIES CEO AND PRESIDENT

Group marks 1,000th night of praying together online

By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

TOPEKA — Exactly 1,000. That’s how many consecutive nights one group has prayed together as of Dec. 13.

Started on March 18, 2020, the group was the idea of Jim Garcia, a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Topeka, who didn’t expect it to last long.

After receiving notice from his work that everyone was to stay home for two weeks due to COVID, later that day, Garcia found himself reviewing Facebook posts. One caught his eye.

“It was just a meme someone had shared, but it said that at 9 o’clock people should pray for our world and what’s going on,” he said.

After asking his wife Jolene what she thought, he posted an invitation on Facebook saying the couple would pray the chaplet of Divine Mercy at 9 p.m. that same night via Facebook livestream.

Five to 10 people joined them.

When they finished praying, Jim asked if anyone wanted to pray again the next night. Everyone said yes.

And they kept saying yes night after night.

“It just became a nightly ritual,” Jim said.

Eventually, the group, which quickly grew and regularly includes between 15 to 35 people, established some traditions.

Most nights, Jim simply leads the chaplet of Divine Mercy aloud, but on Sundays, he sings it. Then, on Wednesdays, the group prays the rosary. On Fridays in Lent, the group meditates on the Stations of the Cross. And every day, the group ends with a common night prayer, one which changes monthly. For example, during November, the group prayed for those who have

served or are serving in the military.

Every night, Jim mounts his cell phone on a tripod and broadcasts the couple’s voices praying together. In order to keep the focus on Jesus and Mary, the camera is always focused on a photo — usually of Divine Mercy or the parish’s statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe. During Lent, the couple uses photos of the parish’s Stations of the Cross.

Because Jim uses his cellphone, he’s been able to lead the group not only from the couple’s home but from other places, too. For example, when traveling, they usually pray from their hotel room or a family member’s home. This past September, though, those who tuned into the nightly livestream one Friday night were treated to an image of the large crucifix on stage for the annual Christ Our Life conference in

Des Moines, Iowa.

To minimize distractions and technological delays common to conference calls and videoconferencing, Jim and Jolene keep the communication one-sided, although they turn on the live-chat feature. That way, people can submit prayer requests or share prayers of thanksgiving. Jolene reads the intentions aloud either before praying or in between decades.

On those occasions when the Garcias cannot lead the group due to other commitments, the couple relies on other parishioners, including Felipe Rangel, who joined the group “as soon as he heard about it” for one reason — the power of prayer.

“I believe in the power of prayer. It made me feel good — not just to be praying but also to be praying with people I knew as well as some people I

didn’t know,” Rangel said.

While the group consists mostly of Our Lady of Guadalupe parishioners, other Topeka parishes are represented, too.

For example, Marilyn Hilderman of St. Matthew Parish is another regular member. She said the group is “spiritually one big family” and it has provided her “that connection of being able to let people know what our heart needs and what we feel.”

Then there’s Jennie Heim from Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish, who said simply, “There’s comfort in knowing that all of us are praying for the same things. . . . I just really enjoy participating.”

The group even reaches beyond the archdiocese. Jim’s sister Carol Hinojosa, who lives in Ohio, has listened almost from the start.

“I’ve been doing it all along with him (Jim). I feel bad when I miss one [day]. So, I’ll go back and replay it,” she said. “I don’t feel like I’m ready for bed unless I’ve heard it. I don’t feel like my night is complete. I don’t know how to explain it.”

Also, she knows firsthand prayers are being answered.

About two years ago, her doctor discovered a spot on her lungs. She asked the group to pray for her. When she returned to the doctor a year later, the spot was gone.

“It just wasn’t there anymore. The doctor was astounded,” Hinojosa said.

Hearing reports of answered prayers is one reason the Garcias said they’re happy the group continues to pray together, and Jim said he’d encouraged others to try it.

“Don’t be afraid. Don’t be afraid to do it,” he urged. “I tell people to step out of the boat. Jesus is saying, ‘Trust me. I’ve got you.’”

Seneca parish ‘Rescued’ Advent this year

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

SENECA — When parishioners at Sts. Peter and Paul Parish here entered church for the First Sunday of Advent on Nov. 27, they were greeted by a mystery.

There, in its customary place every year, was the Christmas creche and lighted, empty manger.

But it was too early — why was it there?

It was there because the 28-member parish Evangelization Team decided to “do something a little different this year,” said member Myra Runnebaum.

And not only was the creche and lighted manger there, but a purple banner with the word “Created,” and a vintage image of the infant Jesus superimposed on a host being elevated by the hands of a priest.

There was still more.

That Sunday, pastor Father Arul Carasala’s homily drew from the resources of a special preaching series based on the book “Rescued” by Father John Riccardo, a priest of the Archdiocese of Detroit.

During a quiet time after receiving Communion, a short meditation on the word “Created” was read by a member of the Evangelization Team. After

Mass, parishioners were given a card featuring the four theme words for the four Sundays of Advent and a message, plus the eucharistic image, as they left the church.

The light in the empty manger symbolizes waiting for Jesus and

God’s creation, said Father Carasala. The color of the banner on the third Sunday was rose-colored for Gaudete Sunday, matching the Advent wreath, to symbolize joy. The eucharistic image on the card is to emphasize that Jesus came as the Word made

flesh and remains with us as the Eucharist.

Father Carasala listened to Father Riccardo during a retreat for archdiocesan priests in early June.

“I like the book,” said Father Carasala. He already owned a copy of Father Riccardo’s book before Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann sent copies to all the pastors of the archdiocese.

One of the things Father Carasala took away from the book is that people are losing a sense of God and there is a tremendous need to bring that back. Because of that loss, people are suffering increased rates of suicide, alcoholism and opioid abuse.

“And that’s why these things are happening, because we are pushing God off the stage,” said Father Carasala.

“We don’t realize that God created us in the image and likeness of him,” he added.

The parish’s new Advent approach actually embodies three archdiocesan initiatives, rather than just one.

The first, via the Evangelization Team, grew out of the archdiocesan Enflame Convocation of 2019. The second, launched this summer, is Revival: Eucharistic Amazement, part of the national effort to promote belief in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist.

The third is the Advent preaching series

based on Father Riccardo’s book.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

Father Arul Carasala, pastor of Sts. Peter and Paul Parish in Seneca, kneels in front of the lighted, empty manger, which was put up earlier than usual — on the First Sunday of Advent. The early display of the creche represents the different approach the parish took in Advent this year.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY MARC ANDERSON

Jolene and Jim Garcia, members of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Topeka, lead a nightly prayer group in the Chaplet of Divine Mercy via Facebook livestream and have since March 18, 2020. The group celebrated its 1,000th consecutive night of praying together on Dec. 13, 2022. Since its inception, anywhere from five to 35 people pray with the couple on any given night.

The advent of heaven

By Jeff Hedglen North Texas Catholic

There is an advent that many people experience that in some ways is more excruciating than expectant, more halting than hopeful, more restless than restful and yet, at the same time, it is more strongly felt than any buildup to Christmas they’ve ever experienced. It is the advent of heaven for the elderly and infirm.

After a long life has been lived, so many of the experiences they longed for when young are now in the past. The bodies that propelled them through life are now faltering. And the faith that sustained them and gave them hope has put them in what often feels like an endless holding pattern.

They long to see Jesus, but it seems that Jesus isn’t quite ready for them . . . yet. It is the “yet” that is so hard to live with, even though “yet” has always been a part of our life.

When we are kids, we want to do so many things but we’re not old enough, yet. When we are adolescents, we cannot wait to be adults. As adults, we can’t wait to find the perfect job, then get married, then we can’t wait to have kids, then retire and on and on. We vacillate between the now and the not

yet of life’s milestones until all are crossed except the final one.

This last milestone, while being the most important one of them all, is for many the most elusive.

Waiting is never easy. Everything from kids waiting for summer, to parents waiting for their children to be born, to farmers waiting for the rain, to waiting for that Amazon package. Big or small, whatever the occasion, waiting is never fun. And yet, waiting is a

major part of life. We cannot escape it and we can’t speed it up. It seems that all we can do is endure it.

But that is not exactly the truth, nor is it the correct response in faith. God is a God that likes to take his time. Forty years in the desert, 50 years in exile, and I have no idea how much time passed from the first sin to God’s plan of salvation culminating in the resurrection of Jesus.

It is quite possible that one of the lessons

revealed in all this biblical waiting is that we need to get used to waiting.

The church offers us the season of Advent so we can focus on the coming of Jesus incarnate and the second coming of Jesus. Implicit in the Advent celebrations is the truth that Jesus came to earth so we can go to heaven, our homecoming.

All of us are waiting for our entry into heaven, though most of us do not long for it. However, there are a

significant number of people who are longing for it and all they can do is wait. This is the ultimate waiting.

If you are one of these people, I offer a simple prayer for you to say as often as needed:

“Jesus, I love you; I am ready when you are.”

If you know someone who is in this situation, I encourage you to wait with them as often as possible, even if all you do is listen to them complain. Having someone to wait with

is so much better than waiting alone.

I also offer you this simple prayer to pray: “Jesus, comfort them while they wait, and prepare my heart for when you’re ready to bring them home.”

I was once taught that the secret to joy is waiting. The longer the wait, the sweeter the coming. And nothing is sweeter than eternity with Jesus.

Reprinted with permission of the North Texas Catholic.

Proceeds of the auction fund big parish projects

and more tools.

No doubt every item had its unknown backstory. For example, what about the box with all those empty Crown Royal whiskey bottle bags?

For years, the major fundraiser for the parish was its annual picnic. It was OK, but didn’t bring in much. The idea for a consignment auction was more of an afterthought.

“What started the first auction [in 2010] was when I became executor of my mom and dad’s estate,” said Bill Burdick, parishioner and co-organizer of the auction.

“They farmed for a living. When they both passed away, they had older machinery,” he said. “I didn’t think there was enough of it, and enough newer stuff, to attract a lot of people. So, I went to the parish council and said, ‘What do you think about having a St. James consignment auction? So, everybody approved it, and that’s how we got started.”

And the auctions have been incredibly successful. The reason for this, said Burdick, is the big items — the farm machinery.

The auction draws interest from across Kansas and parts of Nebraska and Missouri, according to auction co-organizer Ron Burdiek. On the day of the auction, he and other auction volunteers took remote bids over the phone from faraway bidders.

Being a consignment sale, the parish got a portion of the item sold on a sliding scale, depending on the size of its value. Some items were simply donated, and the parish got 100% of the sale price. Last year, the parish raised about $42,000, said Joyce Burdiek, wife of Ron and record keeper.

Both co-organizers predicted that the sale this year would be great, possibly the biggest one yet, thanks to three major contributors.

The first was the estate of parishioner Tracey L. Hasenkamp, who died on Aug. 20. The second and third were Frank and Linda Engelken, who retired and were divesting themselves of equipment from their company, F&L Construction.

Proceeds from the auction

have benefited the parish in a number of ways. These have included the construction of a breezeway between the church and the parish hall and the religious education classrooms added to the church basement.

“These things have exploded; they’re so much bigger than anything I could have possibly imagined,” said Father Jaime Zarse, who is pastor of St. James Parish, Sacred Heart Parish in Sabetha and St. Augustine, Fidelity.

“What began as a summer picnic has become a summer picnic and a consignment auction,” he said. “And the consignment auction is dwarfing the picnic at this point. It’s wildly successful. The number of items on this sale bill is huge, and it’s just a fraction of what’s in the lot.”

Of course, it wouldn’t have been possible without the volunteers.

In addition to the abovenamed organizers, volunteers were required to transport,

load

unload

issue and track the bidder numbers, grill the hamburgers, and cook and serve up the break-

and

auction items,

fast and dinner. The professional auctioneers who donated their talents and equipment were Wayne

and Craig Wischropp, Rodney Burdiek, Cody Askren and Cole Pitts.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Roy Claycamp from Seneca checks out some tractors before the auction. The auction draws interest from across Kansas and parts of Nebraska and Missouri.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

There was no shortage of vehicles at the St. James consignment auction. Three major contributors helped the auction become, what organizers hoped, would be the biggest and most lucrative one yet.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Vaughn Sowers from Corning hand-starts his 1950s model Farmall Tractor as Jarred Bohnenkemper from Denison looks on.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Casey Brown from Minneapolis is on the phone with his boss, Brent Johnson, bidding on a pickup truck with a custom cattle-feeding and hay bale-holding bed.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Piles of firewood (about half-cords) were just some of the items up for auction. Hay bales were for sale as well, as were farm and livestock equipment.

DOING THE WORK IN THE WORKS OF MERCY

by Jay Soldner

There are seven corporal works of mercy found in the teachings of Jesus that provide a model of how one should treat others. On Nov. 28, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, the Little Brothers and Sisters of the Lamb and Father Joseph Chontos lived out one of those works when they visited the Kansas Juvenile Correctional Complex, a medium- and maximum-security facility for male and female juveniles in Topeka. Father Chontos is the chaplain of the facility. The group was able to meet with several incarcerated groups and individuals that evening to talk and pray. The Little Brothers and Sisters also performed for select groups.

COMPASSION

FIST BUMP

CONVERSATION

DELIVERING A MESSAGE

Archbishop Naumann gives a fist bump between the glass that separates him from a juvenile offender room.

Archbishop Naumann speaks to the boys in G-Unit of the Kansas Juvenile Correctional Complex. The juveniles held on offenses that would be considered a felony if committed by an adult.

Archbishop Naumann offers a gentle hand to a juvenile offender after talking to a small group. The archbishop and his group met and talked with a number of juveniles during their visit.

Little Sister Judith, the provincial superior of the Little Sisters of the Lamb, talks with a juvenile following a small group meeting as facility chaplain Father Joseph Chontos, left, Mike Morrand, center, a lay member of the Community of the Lamb, and Archbishop Naumann look on.

Photos

SOLITARY VISIT

Left, Little Brother David and Little Sister Judith talk and pray with a juvenile. Because of staffing issues, the young men and women were confined to their rooms so the guests went room to room to visit.

SECURITY CHECK

Below, Archbishop Naumann is wanded by a corrections officer before being allowed into the

CHANCE ENCOUNTER

Between buildings on the grounds inside the facility’s fenced perimeter, the Little Brothers and Sisters and Archbishop Naumann stopped to visit with a group of incarcerated young men.

Kansas Juvenile Correctional Complex in Topeka.

offender locked in his

As CNS closes, we reflect on more than 100 years of service

By Greg Erlandson Catholic News Service

Catholic News Service turned 100 years old in 2020. Unfortunately, our birthdate coincided with the start of a worldwide pandemic, and many of our celebration plans were canceled. A highlight, however, was Pope Francis meeting with the CNS Rome staff in February 2021 to mark the anniversary.

At that meeting, Pope Francis praised the news service, saying it “has provided an invaluable contribution to the English-speaking world through its coverage of the church’s mission of proclaiming the Gospel and witnessing to the love of God revealed in Jesus Christ.”

“In an age when news can be easily manipulated and misinformation spread, you seek to make the truth known in a way that is, in the words of your motto, ‘fair, faithful and informed,’” the pope told the CNS staff. “I thank you for your work and I encourage you to continue fostering dialogue and honest communication between individuals and communities.”

Unforeseen at the time of the anniversary was that the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops would be closing the domestic bureaus of Catholic News Service as of Dec. 30, 2022. The Rome bureau will remain open, however, continuing its award-winning coverage of the pope and the Vatican.

On the eve of the closure of the domestic offices in Washington and New York, CNS is reprising its series on the history of the news service. For more than a century, CNS has covered the major events in the life of the church. It connected the U.S. church

with an international audience, and it informed millions of Catholics in parishes and dioceses across the nation about the events of the day as seen from a Catholic perspective.

From the beginning, this was the mission of the news service. The news service grew out of a need by Catholic newspapers for national and international news coverage that could supplement their local reporting. It was a visionary response by the U.S. bishops in cooperation with the Catholic Press Association to provide such coverage for the benefit of a growing network of diocesan and national Catholic newspapers.

Over the decades, the news service expanded the services it provided. In 1950, CNS opened a Rome bureau — a

providential move that allowed it to provide daily coverage of the Second Vatican Council.

It instituted a photo service that grew to include videos and multimedia presentations tailored to our digital age. It began a documentary service to chronicle important texts of the post-Vatican II church at home and abroad, providing content and context. It provided a catechetical series called Faith Alive!

And it took over the Office of Film and Broadcasting, expanding its coverage to include video games as well as the growing number of movies and shows available on streaming services.

CNS has, over time, come to see its role as not only bringing the world’s news to Catholic readers but connecting Catholics with each other. Through

its alliances with client publications, it brought the best of local journalism — whether in Australia or Africa or the diocese next door — to a worldwide audience. It made the voices of church leaders heard far beyond their chanceries. It partnered with other Catholic news gathering organizations to show the challenges and the genius of local Catholic communities around the world.

And all of this was done while meeting the professional standards of our vocation. We eschewed rumor for fact. We sought on-the-record sources whenever possible. We strove for balanced reporting, fairly presented. In service to the truth, we have been ever mindful, in the words of Pope Francis, “not to entertain prejudices or draw hasty conclusion . . . to take the time needed to understand, to pay attention to the essentials.” (World Communications Day Prayer, 2021)

The availability of a robust Catholic press to counter the fake news and false narratives in social media and beyond is critical for a healthy church to make its voice heard in an increasingly cacophonous world.

Articles that can be found on The Leaven’s website — www.theleaven. org — highlight the accomplishments of the past century and the contribution Catholic News Service has made to the church.

In the years ahead, the CNS mission will be carried on by Catholic News Service in Rome. The Rome staff’s coverage of the Vatican in text, photo and video will be distributed in collaboration with the new wire service being launched by Our Sunday Visitor. We wish that news service all the best as it launches Jan. 1.

House sends Respect for Marriage Act to Biden

WASHINGTON (CNS)

— By a vote of 258169, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Respect for Marriage Act Dec. 8 and sent it to President Joe Biden for his signature.

Biden is expected to sign the bill legalizing same-sex marriage into law.

The president praised Congress for a measure the U.S. Catholic bishops and other religious leaders have said does not clearly protect the religious freedom of churches and individuals who believe in traditional marriage between one man and one woman.

The House approved the measure by a wide margin in July, but had to vote on it again after the Senate passed an amended version Nov. 29 in a 61-36 vote.

Senate Democrats were joined by 12 Republicans who backed the bill after they were satisfied with an amendment they said would protect the rights of those who oppose same-sex marriage on religious grounds.

But after Senate passage, the chairman of the U.S. bishops’ Committee on Laity, Marriage, Family Life and Youth said he was “gravely disappointed.”

Bishop Robert E. Barron of WinonaRochester, Minnesota, said Dec. 1 that the measure “fails to include clear, comprehensive and affirmative conscience protections for religious organizations and individuals who uphold the sanctity of traditional marriage that are needed.

Decades of social and legal developments “have torn sexuality, childbearing, and marriage from each other in the public consciousness,” Bishop Barron said in a statement released by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

“Much of society has lost sight of the purpose of marriage and now equates it with adults’ companionship,” he said.

“We affirm our respect for the dignity of all engaged in this debate and acknowledge differing perspectives in our civil society,” Bishop Barron added, “but the impact of this bill will only

contribute to the diminishment of the sacredness and integrity of marriage in our society.”

Ahead of the Senate vote, Bishop Barron joined Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan of New York, chairman of the USCCB’s Committee for Religious Liberty, in reiterating the bishops’ “firm opposition” to what they called a “misnamed” measure.

In a Nov. 23 joint letter to all members of Congress, the chairmen said they were writing “to implore Congress to reverse course” on the Respect for Marriage Act, also known as RMA.

The letter said the bishops’ opposition to the legislation “by no means condones any hostility toward anyone who experiences same-sex attraction.”

“Catholic teaching on marriage is inseparable from Catholic teaching on the inherent dignity and worth of every human being. To attack one is to attack the other. Congress must have the courage to defend both,” the letter said.

WASHINGTON (CNS) — The Christmas carol “O Holy Night” ranked first in a list of hymns most played in December at Christian churches in the United States.

“O Come All Ye Faithful” and “Silent Night” ranked second and third, respectively. The list was compiled by Pushpay, which offers electronic giving options for churches and their congregants.

The top-10 list is filled with carols familiar to Catholics. Following the top three choices are, in order, “The First Noel,” “Joy To The World” and “Angels We Have Heard On High.” Following those are two songs featured more in the repertoire of non-Catholic churches. “Glorious Day,” which ranked seventh overall, was recorded by the contemporary Christian group Passion.

‘O Holy Night’ tops all hymns used in churches in December

CNS PHOTO

This is a photo of the newsroom of Catholic News Service’s predecessor, NC News Service, in the 1950s.

Vatican Museums repatriates mummies to Peru

By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Completing a project to repatriate human remains held in the Vatican Museums’ ethnological collection, the Vatican and the government of Peru signed an agreement Oct. 17 to return to Peru three mummies sent to the Vatican in 1925.

Cardinal Fernando Vérgez Alzaga, president of the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State, and César Landa Arroyo, foreign minister of Peru, signed an agreement Oct. 17 in the Vatican Museums for the return of the mummies.

The three human remains are thought to be several centuries old, but their exact age will not be known until after thorough studies are conducted in Peru. They were found at an altitude of more than 9,800 feet in the Peruvian Andes along the Ucayali River. The mummies are assumed to be Incan.

The mummies were part of the Vatican Museums’ Anima Mundi ethnological collection, which features thousands of pieces of Indigenous art and artifacts from around the world. The mummies, like many of the pieces of art and cultural artifacts from the peoples of Australia and Oceania, the Americas, Africa and Asia, were sent to the Vatican for the 1925 Holy Year opened by Pope

Pius XI. The celebration included a major exposition on Catholic missionary activity around the world.

With a conviction that human remains are not works of art or collectibles, in 2010 the Vatican Museums began a project to return human remains in its collection to their countries of origin. The first remains, a mummy from Ecuador, were returned in 2014. Three years later, the museums returned to Ecuador a tsantsa, a specially treated head used in ceremonies. At the time, the museums said

the three Peruvian mummies were the only human remains still in the collection.

The Vatican is in talks with a number of Indigenous communities around the world, particularly in Canada, about the repatriation of some of their art and artifacts, although until now most of the Vatican’s efforts have been to work with Indigenous representatives and scholars to get a greater understanding of the objects in its collection in order to present and describe them more accurately.

Congolese cardinal urges Global North to lead in tackling climate crisis

NAIROBI, Kenya (CNS) —

Congolese Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu urged developed nations to lead the way in addressing the current global climate crisis, describing it as “a tragic and striking example of structural sin” driven by indifference and greed.

“We know that the Global North is largely responsible for the climate crisis and must contribute their fair share to

address it,” said the cardinal, who is the president of the Justice, Peace and Development Commission of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar. “This means leading the way in emissions reductions, providing funding for climate adaptation, loss and damage, and supporting countries in the Global South to achieve just levels of development.”

The cardinal said the climate crisis is a lived reality for the people across Africa,

and it was sometimes difficult to see the solution to the complex situation.

He highlighted the recent summer heat waves in North Africa, the devastating storms and cyclones early this year in southern Africa and the worst food crisis in generations in East Africa. In West Africa, cities are flooded, communities are submerged in creeks and conflicts that had simmered for years are now intensifying due to climate-induced displacement, he said.

Disarmament is the only way to build a peaceful future

By Carol Glatz Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Disarmament is the only way to build a peaceful future, said Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican secretary of state.

“We need to imagine and build a new concept of peace and international solidarity, remembering that so many countries and peoples are asking to be heard and represented,” he said.

“We need courage to bet on peace and not on the inevitability of war, on dialogue and cooperation and not on threats and divisions. We need military and verbal de-escalation” to rediscover the human face of others, the cardinal said Dec. 13.

Cardinal Parolin was speaking at an event sponsored by the Italian Embassy to the Holy See in partnership with Vatican Media and the Italian geopolitical journal, Limes.

In his speech, Cardinal Parolin said, “we cannot help but wonder if we are really doing everything, everything possible,” to end the tragedy of the war in Ukraine, “which began with the aggression perpetrated by the army of the Russian Federation” more than nine months ago.

Pope Francis has called for “the use of all diplomatic means, including those that have not yet been used, to achieve a cease-fire and a just peace,” the cardinal said.

Cardinal Parolin said the possible use of nuclear weapons and atomic warfare is “terrifying” and it is distressing to see the acceleration of the arms race in several countries, especially when the huge amounts of money could instead be used “to fight hunger, create jobs and ensure adequate medical care for millions who never had any.”

The world has seen “how real the possibility of sliding into the abyss of nuclear conflict is, even because of human error. Disarmament is the only adequate and decisive response if we are to build a peaceful future,” he said.

The spirit of Helsinki should be revived “by working creatively” and finding new ways to address crises and war, he said, because the present and future cannot be based on “old patterns, old military alliances or ideological and economic colonization.”

The cardinal called for “a new major European conference dedicated to peace,” which should include the participation of experts and organizations dedicated to nonviolence and dialogue.

“The Holy See is ready to do everything possible to facilitate this path,” he said. “We hope to revive the spirit of Helsinki in a renewed way adapted to the current situation.”

He called for greater commitments “to put an end to the fratricidal barbarism taking place in Ukraine.”

“Let us all commit ourselves to building a new system of international relations in which it is not just the powerful or the bullies who make the decisions. Let us return to the spirit of Helsinki to find the way back to peace in Europe,” he said.

CNS PHOTO/VATICAN MEDIA

Peruvian Foreign Minister César Landa Arroyo, center, and Cardinal Fernando Vérgez Alzaga, president of the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State, look at the mummies that will be returned to Peru. The two signed a formal agreement for the mummies’ repatriation Oct. 17, in the Vatican Museums.

EMPLOYMENT

Catholic elementary school principal – Holy Name Catholic School in Kansas City, Kansas, is seeking an individual with demonstrated spiritual, academic and advancement leadership skills for the 2023-24 school year. As the leader of the school, the principal plays a critical role in safeguarding and promoting our school’s aim to lead students to encounter and grow as disciples of Jesus Christ, and directing the school’s activity, learning, teaching, culture, finances and formation toward that goal. The principal is responsible for ministering to staff, students and families. Our school seeks to glorify God through academic excellence. The principal is responsible for administering the school’s education program; supervising teaching administrative and support staff and implementing archdiocesan curriculum guidelines and standards; and supervising and directing all other programs and services provided at or by the school. Applicants for principal must be practicing Catholics, understand the mission of Catholic schools and have or be eligible for Kansas licensure in educational leadership. Please apply online at: www.archkckcs.org and send resume and credentials to superintendent Dr. Vince Cascone, Catholic schools office, via email to: vcascone@archkckcs.org. Currently accepting applications. Position open until filled.

Cafeteria custodian - Curé of Ars is looking for a parttime cafeteria custodian from 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, on days school is in session. Duties will include maintaining cafeteria cleanliness; setting up and tearing down tables and disinfecting surfaces; emptying trash; sweeping floors and running the floor scrubber machine daily; and assisting with kitchen/cafeteria responsibilities, as directed. Must work well with a team and with children. Some heavy lifting is required. All employees are required to be Virtus trained and background-checked. Interested candidates should send a resume to the cafeteria manager at: sarah.hirsch@cureofars.com.

Sisters of Charity communications director - Impelled by the love of Christ, the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth, a Roman Catholic congregation of women religious, offer every loving service in their power to meet the critical needs of God’s people. Established in 1858 in Kansas, the Sisters of Charity live their mission in the spirit of their founders St. Vincent de Paul, Louise de Marillac and Mother Xavier Ross. The Sisters, as Gospel-centered women, share a tradition of responding to the needs of the time, ministering to the vulnerable and marginalized and caring for the fragile Earth. They share their mission in partnership and collaboration with those committed to working for peace and justice. Job summary: The communications director will develop and implement a strategic communications plan, aligned with the current strategic direction of the SCL community, that supports the mission, philosophy and positive image of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth. This includes an assessment and review of all current communications practices. Excellent written and oral communication, computer skills, creativity, experience with strategic communications plans, and an understanding of the culture of Catholic women religious and experience are required to be a successful candidate. As the media point of contact, an ability to address crisis communication situations professionally is essential. The ability to work effectively with others through appropriate delegation and support is also important to success. Professional experience of five - seven years in communications; familiarity with faith-based, mission-driven nonprofit organizations; and a minimum of a bachelor’s degree are required. Job duties include: internal communications and other; audit current communications practices and implement changes as needed in consultation with the SCL council; take responsibility for official SCL communications; develop communication (letters, email announcements, talking points) for special events; maintain effective communication methods (daily emails, special notifications, internal broadcasts) with motherhouse and Ross Hall Sisters; provide communications support and resources to SCL community director, council, offices, staff and committees; develop and assist with analysis of SCL community and SCL associates surveys; prepare and manage annual departmental budget; update departmental policies and procedures; conduct periodic audits to determine satisfaction with means, frequency and accessibility of internal communications. External communications: Provide communications support as needed or requested for events, announcements, activities, and news about the SCL community and individual Sisters; develop press releases, announcements, news and feature articles for distribution to churches, media, website and other outlets; develop and disseminate death notices and obituaries of Sisters; develop advertisements for media placement or printed programs of events for which the SCLs are a sponsor/donor; develop, review and implement crisis communication plans and function as spokesperson for the community when delegated. Serve as liaison with media for inquiries.

High school para - Seeking a full-time para educator for the 2022-23 school year. The candidate will work with students and student support plans. Candidates should have experience in special education or knowledge of learning differences. If interested, please send a letter of interest and resume to: mhurlbert@bishop miege.com.

Administrative assistant - The Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph has an immediate opening for an administrative assistant in the Office of Child and Youth Protection. The duties include supporting the office’s ministries: safe environment training and compliance; responding appropriately to allegations of sexual abuse; and providing care and support to those harmed by an agent of the church. This position is full time and benefits-eligible. For more information or to apply, visit: www.kcsjcatholic.org.

Senior-level development director - Bishop Sullivan Center in KCMO is seeking a senior-level development director. Inspired by Christian faith, Bishop Sullivan Center shows God’s love to people in financial hardship by providing food, help in finding jobs and other aid. Beyond material assistance, Bishop Sullivan Center strives to build relationships between those who live in poverty and those who do not, promoting mutual understanding and affirming the dignity of all. This full-time director will work primarily at our 3936 Troost Ave. location in KCMO. For additional information/to apply, go to: m.carlstedt@ bishopsullivan.org or call (816) 231-2971.

Director of music ministry - The director of music ministry for St. Pius X parish in Mission, Kansas, is responsible for facilitating the worship life of the parish by coordinating and providing quality liturgical experiences that celebrate and strengthen the parish journey of faith with special emphasis on the musical leadership, coordination and formation of parish cantors, choirs and accompanists. The director should have a deep knowledge of Catholic liturgy and traditions and be able to integrate him/herself into the current music culture of the parish and build on the program. The position includes planning and developing the full liturgical cycle, including Sunday and holy day liturgies and other major parish celebrations. The director is expected to assist liturgical teams and committees. Other responsibilities include: maintains the parish liturgical music collection; orders music as needed; manages the parish copyright and licensing programs; directs, coordinates and/or performs music that is liturgically appropriate for parish liturgies and other celebrations. Serves as a resource to clergy, religious education/formation staff and catechists in selecting music and planning liturgies and prayer services; invites, encourages and enhances assembly participation in the sung liturgy; assures ongoing expansion of the parish music repertoire. Schedule requires weekend hours, evening hours and holiday hours as needed. Contact Search Committee c/o: lawagner@archkckcs.org.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Community engagement coordinator - The Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth community engagement coordinator works as part of a three-person team in the office of justice, peace and integrity of creation (JPIC). The position’s primary responsibility is to implement the Laudato Si’ Action Platform (LSAP) and help the community live its mission of doing justice through the lens of integral ecology. This position will lead the congregation’s response to the LSAP through coordination and collaboration with Sisters, associates, staff, partners in ministry, and the local community. Job duties include: coordinate the congregation’s LSAP response by serving as a central resource for Sisters, staff, associates and partners in ministry on the development and implementation of responses to the seven platform goals; manage and monitor projects related to the Laudato Si’ Action Platform; develop educational materials and opportunities regarding LSAP and integral ecology; engage relevant internal stakeholders in the development and implementation of the platform; network with external organizations and individuals doing activities/projects to build partnerships; share outcomes of projects internally and externally, and seek, where beneficial to mission advancement, outside partnerships and funding to implement projects; in collaboration with the rest of the JPIC office, develop workshop materials and facilitate workshops on Laudato Si’ and best practices in integral ecology; participate in conferences, webinars and other informational opportunities; serve as the liaison for the congregation to the LSAP religious orders working group; manage LSAP reporting requirements through the platform website; work to ensure that the goals and journey to integral ecology extend beyond the platform’s life; and other duties as assigned. Qualifications: associate’s (bachelor’s preferred) degree in political science, sociology, theology or similar program; a team player and good communicator who is open to new ideas and eager to learn; demonstrates an understanding of integral ecology; strong commitment to and demonstrated passion for justice; strong project management skills; willingness to learn or understands the congregation’s charism; knowledge of Catholic social teaching; have the ability to: analyze and effectively articulate the justice agenda; motivate others on behalf of justice issues and concerns; engage others in active dialogue and reflective thinking; present effectively to diverse populations; strong organizational, written and verbal communication, and technology skills (Zoom, Microsoft); openness to varied points of view and cultures; sensitivity to language as it impacts race, gender and culture; limited travel to conferences and local meetings (10%); strong self-motivation and decision-making ability; ability to manage flexible hours. Physical requirements: carrying, bending, stooping, grasping, standing, twisting, sitting, lifting, walking, filing; communicating with Sisters, associates and co-workers via face-to-face, phone and other technological means; push, pull, lift or carry up to 20 pounds occasionally; generally sedentary. To apply, send resumes to: recruiting@scls.org.

Business manager - St. John the Evangelist Parish and School in Lawrence seeks a full-time business manager. The manager will administer the finances of the parish and school, and maintain accuracy of all financial operations. Applicants need computer/ new technologies competencies. Candidates with a degree in business/accounting with 1-3 years of experience or its equivalency, and bilingual (English and Spanish) are preferred. Please see full job description and requirements at: www.sjevangelist. com. This position is eligible for the archdiocesan benefits package. The position will be open until filled. Please send cover letter and resume to Father John at: frjohn@sjevangelist.com or 1229 Vermont St., Lawrence, KS 66044.

In-home child care needed - I am a first-time Mom and nurse living in Prairie Village seeking in-home child care for my infant son when I go back to work March 1 for two - three days per week. Days vary but work schedule is set six - eight weeks out. Call Maureen at (913) 548-6660.

Administrative assistant - Queen of the Holy Rosary, Bucyrus, is seeking an administrative assistant for the parish. General assistance in many areas such as managing the church calendar, creating the bulletin, registering new families and other dayto-day office duties. The applicant will be working 30-35 hours per week with archdiocesan benefits. Please email your resume to: mpetz@qhrwea.org or call (913) 879-7059 for additional information.

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

Assistant director - Prince of Peace Early Education Center is seeking a highly qualified, flexible, resourceful, self-starter for our assistant director. The ideal candidate has previous teaching/administrative experience and demonstrates excellent communication skills with staff and parents. Job requirements: All applicants must meet the following requirements in order to be considered for hire: a minimum of six months or more teaching in a licensed child care center with proof of work; have a BA/BS or higher in early childhood education or related field with 12 or more college credit hours in early childhood education. We offer competitive pay. Benefits include: paid vacation and sick time; paid holidays; 401(k) match, and health, vision, dental, life, as well as short- and long-term disability insurance. To apply or for more information, call Jamie at (913) 829-2718 or email: jwessel@popolathe.org.

Extended day care position - Holy Spirit Catholic School in Overland Park is seeking an enthusiastic person to be the group leader in our after-school care program. This well-established program runs from 3 - 5:45 p.m. each school day. We are looking for a faith-filled, responsible, organized and creative person. Applicants should have knowledge of child development and be able to implement age-appropriate activities. The ability to communicate clearly with children, colleagues and parents is most important in order to foster positive relationships. Applicants must attend Virtus training, ongoing childcare training and be at least 18 years old. Contact Tessa Piscitello at (913) 492-2582 or email: tpiscitello@hs catholic.org for more information.

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

Janitorial assistant - Queen of the Holy Rosary, Wea, is seeking a janitorial assistant. This is a parttime position requiring 15 - 20 hours per week. Work hours are flexible and can be negotiated with the employee’s supervisor. Basic duties include general cleaning of the church, school and adoration chapel. For a full job description or to apply for the position, visit: archkck.org/jobs.

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

ICON DISPLAY

Savior Pastoral Center

12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kansas

Dec. 9 - Feb. 19

Savior Pastoral Center is hosting an icon display on the art wall in the main hallway. The doors are open days and evenings. Just pick up the phone at the main entrance to be let into the center.

The iconographer is Peggy Shopen, who has been studying with Hexameron and Seraphic Studios for the past seven years.

WOMEN EMBRACING AGING

Keeler Women’s Center

2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kansas

Dec. 20 from 2 - 3:30 p.m.

This is a support group for women who want to explore aging. Share your experiences, wisdom and unexplored changes aging is bringing into your life.

PANCAKE BREAKFAST

St. Patrick Parish

1086 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kansas Dec. 20 from 8 - 11 a.m.

Knights of Columbus Bicentennial Council 6781 will be hosting a freewill pancake breakfast. There will be pancakes, sausage, scrambled eggs, and biscuits and gravy. Bring your kids, bring your camera, since Santa Claus will be here for the breakfast.

>> Continued from page 12

FOR SALE

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

For sale - Two plots at Resurrection Cemetery in Lenexa. Valued at $5190 for both, asking $4000. Located in the Assumption section near the front of the cemetery, lot 64, section D, spaces 3 and 4. Call (816) 388-3573 and leave a message or email: cindzers@ bellsouth.net.

For sale - 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe with 239K km (148.5K miles) and a couple of little problems; needs new owner who can repair and appreciate it. Dents in one door, leaks oil, but a steal for $5500 or best offer. One owner, no wrecks. Photos, details available. Text (913) 948-3127 for more information.

CAREGIVING

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

Homecare - CMA, 15 years’ experience, background check available, references available from past employers. Call (913) 999-4340.

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.

WINTER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION:

‘A WINTER’S DREAM’

Precious Blood Renewal Center 2120 St. Gaspar Way, Liberty, Missouri Dec. 21 from 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Father Joe Nassal will lead us on our annual Winter Solstice celebration. This year’s theme is: “A Winter’s Dream: Waking up to the Promise of Peace.” We will take a contemplative walk to the Reconciliation Labyrinth with luminaries to light the way and conclude with a simple supper. To register, go online to: pbrenewalcenter. org. Scroll down to “Winter Solstice Celebration: A Winter’s Dream and then scroll down and click on the “Register” button.

NEW YEAR SPIRITUAL REFLECTION AND PLANNING RETREAT

Christ’s Peace House of Prayer 22131 Meagher Rd., Easton Jan. 6 - 8

Set aside time at the beginning of the new year to create growth goals and devise steps to reach your goals. The structure of the retreat will allow ample time for you to do work on your plan. There will be conferences, eucharistic adoration, Mass, confession and walking. Cabins/courtyard rooms: $170 for single, $250 for a couple; or $100 for single guest rooms. Meals are included. To attend, fill out the individual retreat form online at: ChristsPeace.com.

TAKE-A-LOOK THURSDAY

Holy Spirit School 11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park Jan. 12 from 9 -11 a.m.

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

WILL AND TRUST WORKSHOPS

St. Pius X Parish

(Father Glowacki Room) 5500 Woodson, Mission Jan. 19 from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. or Jan. 24 from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Jon Stanfield, estate planning attorney, will present information on the differences between wills, trusts, probate, charitable gift planning and more. Refreshments will be available and there will be take-home resources. Send an RSVP by email to: tlynn@archkck.org or call (913) 647-0365.

SOCIAL SECURITY WORKSHOP

Corpus Christi Parish

6001 Bob Billings Pkwy. Jan. 21 from 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Do you need to decide when to start taking your benefit? All parishioners are invited to the workshop. There will be light refreshments, door prizes and a guide book. Send an RSVP by email to: planned

giving@archkck.org or call (913) 634-4567. You can also just walk in.

RETROUVAILLE

Jan. 27 - 29

Kansas City

Retrouvaille offers a welcoming and loving space to couples who have been living with the misery of a failing marriage. Retrouvaille offers hope — hope that it is not too late, hope of a different and better marriage. Retrouvaille helps couples to show each other mercy through the opportunities it provides to listen, to forgive, to be reconciled and to move into their futures believing that God loves them and, with his help and their efforts, their marriages can be healed and restored. Retrouvaille provides help for marriage problems/ difficulties/crises. For more information, call (800) 470-2230 or visit the website at: helpourmarriage.com.

‘

JOURNEY TO JOY: BROKEN MOMENTS, HEALING MOMENTS, HOLY MOMENTS’

Church of the Nativity

3800 W. 119th St., Leawood Jan. 28 at 9 a.m.

Mass will be at 8:15 a.m. followed by a light breakfast. Kelsey Skoch will be the speaker, focusing on topics of evangelization and missionary discipleship. Skoch is best known for her ministry and talks helping women in their personal purity.

SERVICES

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.

Custom countertops - Laminates installed within 5 days. Cambria, granite and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee.

Painting - Diamond Painting, (913) 648-4933, Residential/Commercial, Exterior/interior, Free Estimate, Affordable, Decks, DiamondPaintKc.com. Kcmo/ Overland Park Metropolitan area.

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

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

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

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Popcorn ceiling texture removal

Interior painting

Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144. 30 years’ experience. Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.

Local handyman - Painting int. and ext., wood rot, masonry (chimney repair), gutter cleaning (gutter covers), dryer vent cleaning, sump pump (replace, add new), windows, doors (interior and exterior) honey-do list, window cleaning and more! Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118.

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

DRC Construction

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

Windows- Doors - Decks - Siding Repair of replace, we will work with you to solve your problems. Choose us for any window, door, siding or deck project and you’ll be glad you did. Everything is guaranteed 100% www.windowservicesoverlandpark.com drcconstructionwindows@gmail.com (913) 461-4052

STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Free estimates. Call (913) 5791835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.

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

REAL ESTATE

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

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

WANTED TO BUY

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

Will buy firearms and related accessories - One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee.

Wanted to buy - Do you have a car or truck that you need to get rid of? If you do, CALL ME!

I’m a cash buyer. We’re Holy Trinity parishioners. My name is Mark. (913) 980-4905.

PILGRIMAGE

Pilgrimage to Medjugorje - March 14 - 22, 2023. The cost is $2500 per person, which includes airfare, bus transportation, accommodations, two meals per day and daily local guides. Hosted by visionary Mirjana Soldo. For details, call Grace Legaspi at (913) 4491806.

FOURTH WEEK OF ADVENT

Dec. 18

FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT

Is 7: 10-14

Ps 24: 1-6

Rom 1: 1-7

Mt 1: 18-24

Dec. 19

Monday

Jgs 13: 2-7, 24-25a

Ps 71: 3-4a, 5-6b, 16-17

Lk 1: 5-25

Dec. 20 Tuesday

Is 7: 10-14

Ps 24: 1-6

Lk 1: 26-38

Dec. 21

Peter Canisius, priest, doctor of the church

Sg 2: 8-14

Ps 33: 2-3, 11-12, 20-21

Lk 1: 39-45

Dec. 22 Thursday

1 Sm 1: 24-28

(Ps) 1 Sm 2: 1, 4-8

Lk 1: 46-56

Dec. 23

John of Kanty, priest

Mal 3: 1-4, 23-24

Ps 25: 4c-5ab, 8-10, 14

Lk 1: 57-66

Dec. 24

VIGIL OF THE NATIVITY OF THE LORD

Is 62: 1-5

Ps 89: 4-5, 16-17, 27, 29

Acts 13: 16-17, 22-25

Mt 1: 1-25

Presents present chance for a bunch of thanks

Afew months ago, I was given a beautiful, handmade quilt from a parishioner. The older I get, the more I appreciate not only for the gift itself, but for all that comes with it.

I’ll let this story from Gerald Horton Bath clarify what I mean:

A missionary was visiting several islands in the South Pacific before Christmas. He’d been telling his native students how Christians, as an expression of their joy, gave one another presents on Christ’s birthday.

On Christmas morning, one of the natives brought the missionary a seashell of lustrous beauty. When asked where he had discovered such an extraordinary shell, the native said he walked many miles to a certain bay — the only location where such shells could be found.

“I think,” exclaimed

FATHER MARK GOLDASICH

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

the missionary with gratitude, “it was wonderful of you to travel so far to get this lovely gift for me!”

His eyes brightening, the native answered, “Long walk part of gift!” (Adapted from “The Christmas Shell,” a story in Brian Cavanaugh’s “Sower’s Seeds Aplenty: Fourth Planting.”)

Now, back to that

MARK MY WORDS

appreciative of her time sewing the quilt together, then tying a bow around it to give to me. So, the gift itself comes with so much more to be aware of and thankful for.

quilt. I was grateful, above all, that this parishioner wanted to give me a gift. Then, I was thankful for the thought she put into the design of the quilt. Knowing that I love reading, this quilt has individual book pages around its outside, surrounding a bookcase with 80-plus strips of fabric representing different shapes of books. There’s a cat nestled on one book (representing the cats I’ve had and loved as pets) and a coffee pot (symbolizing all the nights I’ve spent reading way past my bedtime).

Naturally, I was

This final week of Advent can either be incredibly stressful or a time of abundant blessings. For the latter to be true, a change of mindset is in order.

For example, I always feel that my Christmas card writing is pretty much finished by this time. Then, inevitably, some cards from people I’d forgotten about come in and I want to send greetings in return. I could grumble about the time it will take to get those cards out, the amount of postage it will take and the trips to the post office involved.

Instead, I choose to take a different attitude. First, I consider myself blessed that people sent cards. Next, I write a personal note in each as a prayer

for the recipients at this holiday time and throughout the new year. Lastly, I decorate the outside of the card with some stickers to add a little art and humor to the envelope. The card — and all that goes into it — becomes the gift.

Perhaps thinking in this way can make these remaining days of Advent holier for you. See the standing in lines, the baking, the cleaning, the wrapping of presents, the writing of last-minute cards and the visiting as all part of your gift to others. And expand your sense of gratitude this Christmas — for the gifts themselves that you receive, but also for all that went into getting them for you.

Thinking in this way can transform this time of year from a dreaded burden into a time of joyful gratitude.

Like Ahaz, we’re called to remember that God is with us always

Have you ever found yourself in a complicated situation without good options?

In Sunday’s first reading, King Ahaz faces such a complex set of problems that modern historians have not untangled it. It involved nations, alliances, plots, threats, attacks.

CAJETAN

1480-1547

Born in Vicenza, Italy, Cajetan earned a doctorate in civil and canon law at the University of Padua. He took an ecclesiastical office in Rome under Pope Julius II and was ordained in 1516, joining a local oratory. In Rome and other northern Italian cities, he focused on helping the sick. With three other Italians, one a bishop who later became pope, he founded in 1523 the first order of clerks regular, the Theatines, which took its name from the bishop’s see. The priests of this reform congregation aided the Catholic Reformation, taking vows and living communally but also doing pastoral work. They served the sick, preached and studied the Bible. Cajetan died in Naples; he is patron of the Theatines and domestic animals.

In the Old Testament course that I teach, his predicament is the knottiest piece of history we have to deal with. Even the name given to it — the Syro-Ephraimite Crisis — is complicated.

God was concerned about Ahaz. He sent the prophet Isaiah to tell him: “Remain calm and do not fear; do not let your courage fail.”

KEVIN PERROTTA

words. After all, Isaiah didn’t have responsibility for the country’s survival.

Isaiah brought Ahaz a warning, too: “Unless your faith is firm, you shall not be firm!”

commentator explains, Ahaz is feigning reluctance to ask God for a private revelation: “The king is actually attempting to conceal his doubts and fears.”

This is what God wanted Ahaz to know: I’m with the people I have called. I’m with you, Ahaz.

Apparently, Ahaz did not respond to this reassurance. Perhaps he felt it was easy for Isaiah to deliver these

Now (in Sunday’s reading) Isaiah tries a different approach. He tells Ahaz that God is willing to give him a sign to guide him. But Ahaz isn’t interested.

“I will not tempt the Lord,” he replies. That sounds humble and pious. But, as one

Ahaz seems afraid of many things: a distant emperor who might come and take over, neighboring kings who are moving their armies toward him, internal pressure groups. Maybe what scares him most is the idea of putting the whole mess in God’s hands.

God, however, does not give up. Although Ahaz refuses to ask, Isaiah promises him a sign anyway. A child will be born who will be named Emmanuel, which is simply the Hebrew for “God is with us!”

It isn’t entirely clear, but it seems that rather than sitting tight and trusting God to act, Ahaz made an alliance with the empire that eventually came and did the country great harm.

There is a message here for all of us who find ourselves in difficult situations. “Emmanuel.” God is with us. God is with you and with me.

This season marks his most astonishing coming to be with us. Let’s not do an Ahaz and keep him at a distance. Let’s welcome him into our complicated lives.

True love leads to freedom, not possessiveness, pope says

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — True love of God or love of another person should lead to a sense of freedom, not to a need to possess or control, Pope Francis said.

“Possessiveness is the enemy of goodness and kills affection — pay attention to this,” the pope told people at his weekly general audience Dec. 7.

Cases of domestic violence, which

occur too often, he said, “almost always arise from the claim to possess the affection of the other, from the search for absolute security that kills freedom and stifles life, making it hell.”

Continuing his series of audience talks about spiritual discernment, Pope Francis said that what one feels and notices after making a decision also is part of the process. And a “good sign” that a decision was right, he said, “is the fact of remaining free

with regard to what has been decided, being willing to question it, even to give it up in the face of possible contradictions” and asking what the Lord was trying to teach through the experience.

God does not want to deprive people of something they want or hold dear, the pope said, but he does want people to live “with freedom, without attachment. Only God knows what is truly good for us.”

Perrotta is the editor and an author of the “Six Weeks with the Bible” series, teaches part-time at Siena Heights University and leads Holy Land pilgrimages. He lives in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Who is standing at the borders of your heart?

On April 1, 2020, Cuba’s borders were suddenly closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For an island whose main entrances are by air and by sea, the effects of the closure were devastating.

Food, gasoline, medicine and products such as soap, detergent, toilet paper and toothpaste were hard to find. Many items normally sold in state-run stores were either too expensive or unavailable in the weeks and months to come.

When the lockdown began, I had a few tubes of toothpaste in reserve. Day after day,

SISTER EVA-MARIA ACKERMAN, FSGM

I rationed the toothpaste by putting only a little dab of it in the center of the bristles.

I began to fear I would run out if the borders didn’t open soon. Eventually, I became very protective — aka, selfish — of the dental cream.

One day, the Lord broke open my heart through an encounter with a humble and guileless friend. Juan directed the music

ministry at our parish church connected to the bishop’s residence and diocesan offices where our Sisters still live and serve.

This only child spent the rest of his time caring for his mother with neck problems and his father with cancer. Daily, he stood hours waiting in the lines at the pharmacy and at the various stores and street corners for food and other necessities.

After receiving his call, I greeted Juan in the lobby of the diocesan offices. He told me that a doctor had prescribed toothpaste with fluoride to heal his father’s gums damaged by cancer. With a

tiny plastic cup in his hand, he humbly asked for a little toothpaste.

Walking to the convent, I heard the Lord ask me if I would be willing to sacrifice one of my precious tubes of toothpaste, not just a dab, for Juan’s father. He reminded me that the family hadn’t brushed their teeth throughout the many weeks of the pandemic. I admit a struggle within, but the Lord prevailed.

I shocked Juan when I handed him a whole tube of toothpaste. His sincere gratitude melted my hardened heart.

My toothpaste supply surprisingly lasted until the Cuban

borders opened sevenand-a-half months later. Not long after that, I returned to my country, the “Land of Plenty,” as I called it there. Afterwards, I often used a dab of toothpaste in solidarity with the Cuban people whenever I brushed my teeth.

Juan unknowingly had opened the borders of my heart that day by his humble request made out of love for his father. May this Christmas be a reminder that someone even greater, born in an isolated stable to poor parents, begs us for our love and waits with joyful hope for the gift of our entire lives.

CEF thanks donors on behalf of the many kids they’ve helped

Each year during the Advent season, the Catholic Education Foundation receives hundreds of handwritten cards from children thanking us for the scholarships they have received.

Many include details about what they like most about school. When I was in school, I would have said recess was my favorite part.

Many of these kids are saying thank you for giving them the opportunity to learn about Jesus and pray during school.

It’s always a pleasant surprise to see this. I believe that our Catho-

lic schools are becoming even more Catholic today than at any time.

I often visit schools throughout the archdiocese. During these visits

I meet with principals, tour the schools and visit classrooms. I am amazed how much these kids are learning about and practicing their faith while also learning the core educational subjects that they need to succeed.

Not only are our students attending

Masses each week, they are also participating in eucharistic adoration, praying the rosary and meeting in small groups or “faith houses” where they pray, discuss living the life of Jesus and worship God. It’s truly inspiring to witness.

Our Catholic schools are providing vigorous academic instruction. They also help our youth grow in their faith and transform into “good Samaritans.” They do this in safe environments in a family atmosphere which is becoming more vital than ever.

In our schools our students prepare for

their sacraments and receive them with their classmates. This creates lifelong bonds that keep our children on the right spiritual path. Nearly every year, some Catholic school students become seminarians to give back to our church community.

Each year, we also receive letters from parents thanking CEF for the scholarships their children receive.

A recent letter from a parent shared: “My son and I would like to thank CEF for their generous contribution that will allow him to have a Catholic education. Those two small words, thank

you, do not express how much your gift means to both of us. There are so many stressful things in everyday life, especially concerning finances. This scholarship will give my son a treasured education. May the grace of Our Lord Jesus Christ be with you and all of the CEF families.”

On behalf of the 1,800 children that are currently receiving CEF scholarships, I thank everyone who supports our students.

May the grace of Our Lord be with you this Advent season!

Counting the many blessings of Eucharistic Amazement

Merry Christmas!

I love setting up the manger scene with my kids and now grandkids because the greatest inheritance I will be able to pass on to them is the love that Jesus desires to share with them.

Setting up the Nativity with the sheep, angels, wise men and then Joseph, Mary and Jesus gives me the chance to ask, “Who is that?”

“Who do you say that I am?” is a central question in Scripture. Jesus asks us this same question

each day. We can, and should, ask Jesus the

same question. There are so many beautiful discoveries in both asking Jesus, “Who do you say that I am,” and responding to the same question.

Quick thinking tells us to call Jesus the Son

of God, and Our Lord and Savior. He calls us sons and daughters. There are so many rich answers to those questions, but ultimately God wants us to share in the divine life of the Trinity because he loves us as children.

The Eucharist is the primary way to share in that divine life. Jesus is there, in the Eucharist, and we can share the eucharistic story, the story of Jesus, as our inheritance and legacy to our own children and grandchildren.

Our archdiocese, alongside all the dioceses in the country,

is spending the next three years diving into what Pope John Paul II coined “Eucharistic Amazement.”

The first year of the three years of the Eucharistic Amazement has been full of blessings! The priests and deacons have had study days, workshops and retreats surrounding Eucharistic Amazement.

Seven workshops have been offered regionally to lay liturgical ministers by the liturgy office. The Nemaha-Marshall and Southern regions have conducted beautiful

eucharistic processions, and the Atchison Region has one on the books for this spring.

Father Ramiro Sanchez Chan, CS, the director of Hispanic ministry, and Karla Melgar, evangelization consultant, have held robustly attended workshops and reflection days for Spanishspeaking leaders.

Check out the website at: archkck.org/ revival to explore the resources offered and events being held to help you to fall deeper in love with Jesus and his bride, the church, through the Eucharist.

Sister Eva-Maria Ackerman, FSGM, is the Delegate for Religious and Consecrated Life for the archdiocese.

CEF CENTERED

VINCENT ANCH

Vince Anch is the executive director of the Catholic Education Foundation.

DEACON

DANA NEARMYER

Deacon Dana Nearmyer is the director of evangelization for the archdiocese.

PANDEMONIUM

Red Bag volunteers make it all possible

Afterward, Daniel returned to the rehab facility and resumed IV therapy.

“He was so happy,” said Weiser, “and we all firmly believe he definitely received a dose of the best medicine possible.”

Michelle Myers was also deeply moved by Daniel’s selfless spirit over the years.

Myers and her husband Steve are parishioners of Sacred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie. They’ve been involved with the Red Bag program for some 25 years and provide food for all the volunteers on Red Bag Saturday.

“I was always so surprised by how long Daniel would talk to me on the phone,” said Myers on their work together. “I would think, ‘You’ve got to have 100 phone calls to make, don’t you, Daniel?’”

“He would talk to me for an hour,” she continued. “Whoever was in front of him was the most important person. That’s just how Daniel was.”

Red Bag wouldn’t be possible without its volunteers, especially the Red Bag Ladies.

Lauren Johnson has been involved with the organization since she was a child. Her mother was a friend of Daniel’s and an original Red Bag Lady. She retired last year and passed the torch to her daughter.

The role of a Red Bag Lady is not for the faint of heart.

The handful of women are responsible for working with social workers from eight local agencies who provide

the list of children in need, said Johnson.

They then divide the children among themselves and find sponsors for each one.

On Red Bag Saturday, the women are busy checking the bags and making sure each one goes to the right place.

“No one is paid and no one wants to be paid,” said Johnson. “We all do it because we love the program. We believe in it.”

Johnson is inspired by the continuous growth Red Bag has experienced.

“I get choked up every year,” she said, “because it’s just a joy. We went from helping children out of Daniel Jacobs’ home to now being at this huge facility.”

A thank-you card the volunteers received last year from a mother whose children were Red Bag recipients

reminds Johnson how great the need is.

“She said, ‘Thanks to Red Bags, I didn’t have to tell my son that Santa forgot him this year,’” said Johnson. “I tell my kids that’s why I do this, so that Santa remembers all these kids.”

‘Will you join me?’

“Every year, [Red Bag] restores my faith in humanity,” said Gray.

“If you watch the news, you’d think things are really bad and people are bad,” he continued. “It’s not true. There are so many great people. If we have a need, there will be 10 people wanting to help.”

Like many of the volunteers, Gray and his wife Debbie were drawn to the program because of Daniel.

“He called me one November

evening when it was early on and said, ‘I’m going to go get a Christmas tree [for a family]. Will you join me?’” said Gray.

Gray accompanied Daniel on the journey to pick up the tree and take it to a family in the inner city. The man there had no wife, and his three children were asleep on the floor.

“We put the tree up, put the lights up,” said Gray, “and I said, ‘You know Daniel, we’ve got to get those kids beds.’ And he did.”

Gray stayed in touch with the man they helped that day, and they’ve remained friends for 35 years.

“He’s very artistic,” said Gray. “He drew a portrait last Christmas of me and Debbie and Daniel. I’ve got it in my office.”

‘This is Christmas’

Myers said volunteering at Red Bag Saturday is a way to put her faith into action and share the joy of the Christmas season with others.

“I had magical Christmases when I was little,” she said. “My kids had magical Christmases when they were little.

“I just think that it’s so important for little kids to have that. The kids don’t know who the stuff’s coming from. They don’t know it’s coming from Red Bag people. They think it’s coming from Santa.”

For Jacobs, carrying on his father’s work in this way is a blessing.

“This puts smiles on so many children’s faces,” he said. “This is Christmas. Christmas is about the Lord Almighty, the Lord Jesus Christ, and giving back to others.

“That’s what this is all about.”

To learn more about Christmas Families and Red Bag, visit the website at: redbagskc.com.

A group of Croatian Catholics and friends react to Croatia’s stunning World Cup victory over No. 1 ranked, and tournament favorite, Brazil on Dec. 9, to advance to the final four. The group watched the match together at the St. John’s Catholic Club on Strawberry Hill in Kansas City, Kansas, which has long been a stronghold for Kansas City’s Croatian community. Croatia would fall to Argentina 3-0 on Dec. 13 and will now play for third place on Dec. 17.

‘Santa remembers all these kids’

COURTESY PHOTO

Daniel Jacobs is pictured above greeting drivers dropping off bags during a Red Bag Saturday event. A longtime parishioner of St. Ann Parish in Prairie Village, Daniel passed away in 2017. His legacy is carried on by volunteers who continue to provide Christmas for those in need.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER