01 21 22 Vol. 43 No. 23

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 43, NO. 23 | JANUARY 21, 2022

OUT FOR BLOOD

Can KC’s biggest Red Cross drive meet the historic need?

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

O

VERLAND PARK — While Katie Reynolds Scott was fighting for her life, she was fulfilling a purpose she never lost sight of: helping others.

“The fact that she was thinking about how she could help other people when she was near the end of her life shows what kind of person she was,” said Liz Phillips, Katie’s sister.

Katie, a graduate of Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park and Benedictine College in Atchison, passed away in 2018 at the age of 29.

She lost her life to a months-long battle with Ewing sarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer.

Katie Reynolds Scott’s Before she Ryan Scott offers a power red donation during vision for a blood drive has died, Katie the 2021 blood drive in honor of his late wife touched thousands of lives. was busy Katie Reynolds Scott. He plays a key part in orcoming up ganizing the annual drive in Katie’s honor. with a plan to start a local blood drive, knowing personally how critical blood From left, Sarah Staley, Kara Berning, Johnnea transfusions were for her own battle.

Saulsberry, Charity Selber, Liz Phillips, Michelle “It gave her life,” said Ryan Scott, KaWiederin, Rebecca Wayland and Stacey Sperry, tie’s husband. all co-workers of Phillips, come together to “Immediately after [the transfusions], donate at the 2021 blood drive. you’d see energy levels through the roof compared to where they were,” he continued. “It was pretty amazing.”

Phillips also witnessed the impact of the transfusions, which helped Katie Financial, where Katie worked.

The amount of support he and Katie’s continue her cancer treatment. family have received from the compa“The day after she had her blood transny, as well as the community, has been fusion, she was like a different person,” said Phillips. “She had so much energy moving.

“It is a very difficult time for our and was able to enjoy life more.”

The annual blood drive inspired by family,” said Phillips, “but the blood drive Katie, to be held Feb. 4 at the Sheraton every year gives us the opportunity to celebrate her life again.”

Hotel in Overland Park, is the “And it’s amazing to see largest Red Cross blood drive Katie Scott every single person who in the Kansas City area. inspired shows up at that drive,” Drives this year in her blood drive she continued. “Katie had Feb. 4 honor are also being held in Sheraton Hotel an impact on their lives — Omaha, Nebraska; St. Louis; 6100 College whether they knew her or and Phoenix.

Blvd., Overland didn’t.

Since it started, blood colPark 66211 “They hear her story and lected from Katie’s drive has they’re there to donate blood. impacted 2,997 lives.

It’s so awesome that we can see her living Held near the anniversary of her death, this year’s comes at a critical time, on through all of these people, [who are] with the Red Cross declaring a national taking the time to donate to help keep her memory alive.” blood crisis on Jan. 11.

Katie would surely be smiling down “It’s kind of like a cry for help,” said on those who give blood in her honor.

Scott, who serves on the board of the Although she played a key part in planAmerican Red Cross. “Doctors have to ning the first drive in 2018, she passed make potentially unfair decisions beaway the day before it took place. cause they don’t have the resources to be “She was very excited for the amount able to treat patients.”

Scott said Katie’s drive wouldn’t be of people we got for the very first blood possible without the help of Renaissance drive,” said Phillips. “She really loved

trying to get as many people [as possible] to participate.”

Katie’s family and friends recently took their efforts a step further, purchasing two Red Cross emergency blood vehicles displaying Katie’s name.

The vans will travel around the Midwest to transport blood from drives to a testing center in St. Louis.

Phillips is grateful for the chance to keep her sister’s legacy alive through a cause that was near to her heart.

“I think it’s a simple and realistic way to help other people,” she said. “All of us have somebody in our lives we’ve known who’s battled cancer.

“And a lot of times, people don’t know how to help. One thing is to go donate blood, because cancer patients will always need that.”

Scott hopes donors will understand the gravity of their gift.

“Whether it’s someone that needs blood from a pregnancy [complication], a trauma situation or cancer, people need blood,” he said. “There’s no discrimination.

“Your donation will save a life.”

Donate blood If you’re interested in participating in the Katie Scott inspired blood drive, visit the website at: redcross blood.org/give.html/find-drive.

Use the sponsor code “katiescott,” then click “See Times” and choose one that works best for you.

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ARCHBISHOP

JANUARY 21, 2O22 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Help make Kansas a model of care for both women and children

G

od willing, as you receive this week’s Leaven, I will be in Washington, D.C., with many other Kansans participating in the annual March for Life. This year’s march comes at a very critical moment for the pro-life movement.

Each year, the march concludes in front of the Supreme Court building. This year, our prayers for wisdom for our U.S. Supreme Court justices will be even more intense, as they deliberate on a Mississippi case, Dobbs v.

Jackson Health Care.

Observers of the court predict that they will render a decision in June.

The Mississippi Legislature enacted a law that prohibits abortion beyond the 15th week of pregnancy. According to the previous decisions of the Supreme Court, states have the ability to regulate abortion after the child has reached viability, capable of surviving outside the mother’s womb. Viability is currently considered to be achieved around the 24th week of pregnancy.

In reality, however, even after viability, an abortion can still be procured if bearing the child will have adverse effects on the health of the mother.

The court has defined a pregnant woman’s health so broadly that abortionists can and do destroy the lives of children well beyond the 24th week.

There are good reasons to hope that the U.S. Supreme Court will choose to uphold the 15-week standard or even give states greater latitude to protect the lives of unborn children.

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN It is fascinating to read the oral arguments regarding the Dobbs case. There are essentially two arguments made by abortion advocates as reasons why the Supreme Court should rule the Mississippi statute unconstitutional.

First, there is the argument of precedent. Essentially, the Roe v. Wade and the subsequent Casey decision have governed public policy regarding abortion for our nation for almost 50 years. Abortion advocates argued that to overturn or significantly change the court’s current position on the issue of abortion will somehow weaken and diminish confidence in the court.

The second argument asserts that abortion is a fundamental human right and the lives of many women will be negatively impacted if abortion became illegal or access to abortion was limited.

It is amazing to claim as a human right the ability to kill innocent children.

Those making the argument to strike down the Mississippi statute claim that the lack of access to

Msgr. Gary Applegate died Jan. 15 Msgr. Gary Applegate, the longtime master of ceremonies for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, died on Jan. 15 at Villa St. Francis, Olathe, with his sister Teresa at his side. He was 70 years old.

A full obituary will be published in the next issue of The Leaven.

abortion will damage women. Essentially, the two arguments converge to make a case that Americans have come to rely upon abortion and without access to abortion women will be handicapped in their professional and personal lives.

Abortion advocates view abortion as the most fundamental and necessary woman’s right. From their perspective, without abortion, women will always be disadvantaged, second-class citizens.

Interestingly, in making the argument for the necessity of abortion, the proponents had to acknowledge the easy availability of contraceptives is not sufficient to protect women from the burden of pregnancy. They admitted that the most widely utilized contraceptives had an overall 10% failure rate and half of those individuals seeking abortion had been using contraception.

From reading the oral arguments, the impression is that pregnancy is imposed upon women. There is no acknowledgment that pregnancy results from choices made by men and women to engage in sexual intercourse.

Of course, there are pregnancies that result from rape, includ-

Mike and Sherry Whitmore, members of St. Agnes Parish, Roeland Park, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Jan. 8. The couple was married at Sacred Heart Church, Emporia, by Father Lambert Dannenfelser, OFM. Their children are: Marc Whitmore, Lisa Sciachetano and Dana Geary.

They also have seven grandchildren.

A family get-together will be celebrated at a later date.

ing date rape, where the woman did not have a choice. These cases demand special attention and care.

However, pregnancy resulting from rape is not the circumstance for the vast majority of abortions.

Abortion becomes “necessary” in a culture where sexual intimacy is considered a fundamental right.

In the United States, after the sexual revolution 60 years ago, it is presumed that two consenting individuals have a right to be sexually active, no matter if they are open — much less prepared — for one of the possible natural consequences of sexual intercourse: the conception of a new and unique human life.

Abortion proponents acknowledge that states could have an increasing interest in the plight of viable unborn children who are able to survive outside the womb of their mothers. However, their rights are always subordinated to the right to abortion.

It is fascinating that abortion has been promoted in our time as a woman’s right. In reality, abortion was the dream child of promiscuous men who desired for women to be always available to them for pleasure.

Abortion is not the friend of women. It is part of an ideology that the liberated woman must become like a man, denying her fertility and the great gift of being able to nurture a new human life within her womb.

Those who believe that abortion is the great solution to unplanned pregnancies have never accompanied a woman who is suffering grief and guilt from the abortion of a child — oftentimes from decades ago.

Authentic feminism advocates: 1) for public policies that support and value the unique maternal gifts of women; 2) for workplace policies that accommodate the needs of pregnancy and child care; 3) for a culture that esteems the unique and irreplaceable role of mothers for a healthy society; and 4) for a society that holds fathers responsible

ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN’S CALENDAR Jan. 21 Mass for March for Life group from Kansas — St. Dominic Church, Washington, D.C. Brunch and meet and greet with young adults from the archdiocese — Holiday Inn Washington Capitol, Washington, D.C. March for Life — Washington, D.C. Jan. 22 10th anniversary of the Fraternity the Poor of Jesus Christ in the archdiocese — Mass Jan. 23 Baptism of third or more child — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas Jan. 24 Red Mass — Mater Dei, Topeka Legislative meetings Knights of Columbus dinner Jan. 25 Kansas Mass for Life —Topeka Performing Arts Center Kansas Life March and rally Jan. 26 Presbyteral Council meeting — chancery Jan. 27-30 Legatus Summit Easter — Amelia Island, Florida Jan. 31 “Shepherd’s Voice” recording —chancery Feb. 1 Administrative Team meeting — chancery

to care for and support financially their children.

Whatever the U.S. Supreme Court decision on the Dobbs case, the eyes of the nation will be on Kansas in August. Kansans will vote on the “Value Them Both” amendment, the first state referendum on abortion after the court’s decision. On Aug. 2, the people of Kansas will decide whether the Kansas Supreme Court decides abortion public policy for our state or the people of Kansas through their duly elected state senators and representatives make those choices.

Kansas voters will decide whether we become a destination haven for abortion or whether we become the national model for public policies that protect the lives of innocent children and their mothers from the human tragedy that results from each and every abortion.

This past December, I sent a letter to every household of the archdiocese

inviting parishioners to make a special onetime donation to our Respect Life ministries. Your gift will help to: 1) communicate the truth about the “Value Them Both” amendment; 2) increase resources for women in the midst of unplanned or difficult pregnancies; 3) provide high quality post-abortion healing and forgiveness ministry for men and women who now deeply regret their participation in abortion; and 4) help our church better serve children that are languishing in the foster care system.

I thank the many who have already made generous donations. I encourage those who have not yet responded to please consider making a sacrificial gift helping our church protect innocent children and surround pregnant mothers with love.

Together, we can make Kansas the national model where women are cherished and innocent children are protected.

LOCAL NEWS

JANUARY 21, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG

3

EXTRAORDINARY WORK

KU Medical Center in need of Communion ministers “ THESE SACRAMENTS “

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — It was a moment Earl Hogan won’t soon forget.

“I recently had the opportunity to take Communion to a gentleman who was in an end-of-life situation,” he said.

“He was my first patient of the day.

“The moment I walked into the ward, a young RN approached me, explained the situation and asked if I could serve her patient first.”

T h e registered nurse at the University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas C i t y , Kansas, (KU Med) Earl Hogan had summ o n e d Father Dominic P h a m , ICM, the hospital’s chaplain, so the patient could also receive the Linda Van sacrament Nieuwenhuyse of the anointing of the sick.

But Hogan had the honor of giving the patient, his wife and three daughters Communion.

“They were extremely grateful,” said Hogan, a volunteer extraordinary minister of holy Communion at KU Med and parishioner at St. Agnes in Roeland Park.

Later that day, Hogan ate lunch with Father Dominic and expressed his thoughts on the situation.

“As Catholics, we pray for a happy death,” he told him, “and I feel certain that was one — receiving the body of Christ, surrounded by your loved ones, and being anointed just before you die. I hope and pray that’s the way I go.”

KU Med currently has 13 openings for the extraordinary minister of holy Communion volunteer position.

The need came about after the hospital stopped allowing volunteers in March 2020

CONFER A SPECIAL GRACE WHICH UNITES THE SICK PERSON MORE INTIMATELY TO THE PASSION OF CHRIST FOR HIS GOOD AND FOR THE GOOD OF ALL THE CHURCH. FATHER DOMINIC PHAM, ICM UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS MEDICAL CENTER CHAPLAIN

PHOTO COURTESY OF HILLARY PODREBARAC

University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City, Kansas, hopes to fill 13 openings for the extraordinary minister of holy Communion volunteer position. They serve from 150-170 patients each day, typically from 9-11 a.m. due to COVID-19, said Hillary Podrebarac, volunteer coordinator at KU Med. “When we were able to reopen August of 2021 to bring volunteers back on board,” she said, “a lot of them had reached the point where they were ready to retire from volunteer work.”

The Communion ministers serve around 150-170 patients each day, typically from 9-11 a.m. Podrebarac hopes to have four volunteers a day.

Volunteers are required to be fully vaccinated and take an annual flu vaccine. They wear medical masks and are provided with eye protection when encountering patients up close.

For Linda Van Nieuwenhuyse, a parishioner at St. Joseph in Shawnee, volunteering in this role for the past decade has been “an honor.”

She heard about the need for volunteers from a friend and decided to join the team when she retired.

Van Nieuwenhuyse experienced firsthand the beauty of the ministry when her husband was in the hospital and received Communion from extraordinary ministers.

“I remember how special that was to us,” she said. “I see patients who feel this same way when they receive holy Communion at KU.” “There are many very sick

President Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799) Published weekly September through May, excepting the Friday the week after Thanksgiving, and the Friday after Christmas; biweekly June through August. Address communications to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Phone: (913) 721-1570; fax: (913) 7215276; or email at: sub@theleaven.org. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. For change of address, provide old and new address and parish. Subscriptions $21/year. Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org

people who are worried and afraid,” she continued. “I witness some of their reactions when they receive Our Lord in holy Communion.

“Some patients are so sick, I never know if I am giving them the holy Eucharist for the last time.”

Van Nieuwenhuyse said some patients cry while receiving, and when that happens, sometimes she does, too.

“I would highly recommend volunteering for this ministry,” she said. “The teams at KU help new volunteers with the ministry until they are comfortable to go on their own.”

Father Dominic explained he wouldn’t be able to distribute

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

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

Communion daily without the help of extraordinary ministers.

He added that Catholics in the hospital need the Eucharist “as a spiritual food in their life” and that offering it daily, as well as anointing of the sick and confession, is critical for those near death.

“These sacraments confer a special grace,” he said, “which unites the sick person more intimately to the passion of Christ for his good and for the good of all the church.

“It gives comfort, peace, courage and even forgiveness of sins.”

For Hogan, who was inspired to volunteer at KU Med after having a positive experience there as a patient, the opportunity has been enriching.

“I consider myself as the carrier for Christ,” he said, “bringing him to people who want to receive him.

“Nearly all of the patients for whom I take the holy Eucharist are very grateful. I feel equally blessed in being able to serve them.”

Podrebarac stressed the importance of this ministry at KU Med. “As a Catholic myself,” she said, “I think there’s no greater comfort during potentially a very scary time in your life [than] to be able to receive the Eucharist.

“It’s such a great comfort to our patients.”

If you’re interested in volunteering as an extraordinary minister of holy Communion at KU Med, contact Podrebarac by email at: hpodrebarac@ kumc.edu or call (913) 945-6720.

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org

Advertising Coordinator Beth Blankenship beth.blankenship@theleaven.org

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

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LOCAL NEWS

JANUARY 21, 2O22 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Christ’s Peace offers serenity, solitude and a spiritual lift

By Tom Farmer Special to The Leaven

Upcoming retreats

L

EAVENWORTH — There’s nothing better than getting away for long hikes in open, quiet spaces to declutter your head and make room for more important things.

For the past 15 to 20 years, quality hiking experiences for me have meant lengthy journeys to campgrounds in Colorado or to the Ozark Highlands Trail in Arkansas. The only problem with these beautiful locales is the requisite looooooong drive.

Soon after moving back to the KC metro about 2-1/2 years ago, my wife and I read about a hidden gem in Leavenworth County, a central location for nearly all residents of the archdiocese.

We learned that Christ’s Peace House of Prayer was a short jaunt from our home in south Olathe, and it offered all that we were seeking and then some, particularly in the spiritual realm.

In desperate need of a spring break getaway at the height of the pandemic early in 2021, Lisa and I reserved a cabin for two nights on a whim, not fully knowing what to expect.

What we discovered were options for a guided retreat, a silent retreat, a self-led retreat, spiritual direction or any combination thereof. We ended up going for a personalized combo, including spiritual direction that met and exceeded our needs.

A relatively short one-hour drive led us to a remote, 220-acre spread of timberland and pastures featuring a nondescript retreat house complete with an open kitchen-dining-library space, single and double guest rooms, a reading parlor, a eucharistic adoration chapel with a windowed wall overlooking hills and trees, and two hosts — Marie and Vince — who want only for visitors to experience the type of getaway they desire and need.

Then there are an additional eight cabins and hermitages spread across the property and connected by well-maintained trails ensuring easy access and plenty of privacy. All accommodations are super simple, sparsely furnished and clean with all basic needs covered.

Among the highlights of our stay were the reverent and beautiful eucharistic adoration experience in the chapel at 7 a.m. and 3 p.m., and our long hikes/ walks on the well-marked trails cut into the woods and pastures. Outdoor Stations of the Cross and the occasional simple shrine offered opportunities to reflect and dive deeper into thought and prayer. The longer we were there, the more locked into our faith we became.

And it’s only one hour away!

If you’ve been meaning to catch up on your reading — the Bible, saints’ biographies or even a couple back issues of The Leaven — there’s no better place than Christ’s Peace. If the weather’s nice, grab a glider on the deck that

Finding Peace of Soul Feb. 4 at 5:30 p.m. — Feb. 6 at 4:30 p.m.

One of the most important works of Catholic spirituality, “The Spiritual Combat: Treatise on Peace of Soul” by Dom Lorenzo Scupoli, will be used as a guide to discover how to live an interior life for and with God. There will be conferences, eucharistic adoration, Mass, confession, and time for private prayer, reflection and walking.

Unbound: Freedom in Christ Retreat March 4 at 5 p.m. – March 6 at 4:30 p.m.

Start out the Lenten season encountering the Father’s blessing. We all have areas in our lives where we don’t experience freedom. These can be patterns of habitual sin, addictions, negative thoughts, resentments and other forms of spiritual difficulty. You will learn how to unlock your prison doors by using the “Five Keys to Freedom.” The conference involves times of prayer, insightful teaching and personal ministry from the Wichita Unbound ministry team.

The suggested donation for each retreat is $170/single or $250/couples for the cabins and courtyard rooms or $100 for the single guest rooms (meals included). To attend, sign up online at: christspeace.com; send an email to: info@christspeace.com; or call (913) 773-8255.

COURTESY PHOTOS

Christ’s Peace House of Prayer offers 220 acres of serene beauty for retreats. The grounds are filled with spiritual reminders to help participants get in the proper frame of mind. That, along with fresh, home-cooked meals, combine for an enjoyable stay. stretches out over the pond. If it’s cold or wet, snuggle up in your rustic room or cabin with a warm drink (always in good supply) and lose yourself in G.K. Chesterton, C.S. Lewis, Thomas Aquinas and company.

If food is your pleasure — and you enjoy simpler culinary experiences — you won’t be disappointed. Neither Marie nor Vince is a five-star chef, but they are more than capable of turning out tasty, vegetarian meals ranging from homemade granola, bagels, yogurt and fresh fruit in the morning to hearty vegetable soups, salads, spreads and sandwiches for lunch and dinner.

By the way, the three meals are included in the amazingly low price that ranges from $50/night for a single room to $125/night for two in a cabin (less if you opt out of meals).

And it’s only one hour away!

Sharing a getaway with my wife is one of my favorite things to do, but after that first visit, I was determined to experience a night solo in a sparsely outfitted hermitage deeper into the woods.

That trip became a reality on a cold and quiet Thursday night in early November. I was the only visitor on the premises, which made the trails and

facilities my own personal adventure.

(Things pick up on the weekends, so if it’s a quieter experience you seek, consider a weeknight stay.)

Being the only visitor meant I had the pleasure of having Vince and Marie join me for lunch replete with casual conversation on a variety of topics. Keep in mind, though, you may choose to eat alone or with others. Marie and Vince are former members of religious orders and have continued their callings as ministers of faith at Christ’s Peace, creating an atmosphere where anyone can grow spiritually, regardless his or her station or phase in life.

If nature is your thing, the property is flush with wildlife, wildflowers, wideopen spaces, and fresh air you cannot breathe in urban and suburban areas. On both of our trips this past year, deer, rabbits and countless birds were in abundance, and we enjoyed the opportunity to pause and appreciate more deeply a few of God’s amazing creatures.

So, if you enjoy the outdoors and the quiet of a secluded cabin or retreat house, or you are simply in need of a spiritual boost (who isn’t?), look into Christ’s Peace House of Prayer (archkck.org/cpp/ home/) and make a reservation. You just might be surprised at what you discover.

By the way, have I mentioned it’s just an hour or so away?

JANUARY 21, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG

DECK HALL

LOCAL NEWS

5

the

Hayden High School announces inaugural Hall of Fame class, celebrates 110 years

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Connie (Meyer) Sterbenz, Hayden class of ’82, enjoys the tailgate meal at Hayden’s fall homecoming Sept. 26. The event brought back alumni from around the country to celebrate the 110th anniversary of Hayden High School in Topeka.

By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

T

COURTESY PHOTO

Hayden High School in Topeka honored their inaugural Hayden Hall of Fame class in December. From left are: Rick Strecker, Ben Meseke, Ken McGarity, Mark Bueltel, accepting on behalf of his father and inductee Ken Bueltel, and Bob Turgeon, accepting on behalf of his son and inductee Mark Turgeon.

“

“

OPEKA — Hayden High School here has plenty to be grateful about during this year’s Catholic Schools Week.

In December 2021, the school finished a yearlong celebration in honor of its 110th anniversary. Founded by Father Francis Hayden, the school opened in 1911 with 30 students. Today, the school has more than 350 with a student to teacher ratio of 14:1.

Principal James Sandstrom said he really enjoyed this past fall’s homecoming celebration held the weekend of Sept. 24-26.

“Getting to see alumni from years ago prior to me being here and seeing alumni whom I had the pleasure of teaching was fun and exciting,” he said.

In addition to traditional homecoming activities, the weekend included a grotto blessing, the announcement of the inaugural Hayden Hall of Fame class and the official launch of “Honoring Our Tradition. Investing in Our Future,” the school’s $2.5 million stewardship campaign.

Then, last Dec. 4, the yearlong anniversary celebration closed out with a banquet at which the Hayden community gathered to honor the first five members of the Hayden Hall of Fame.

Last summer, the entire Hayden community had been invited to nominate individuals of distinction that fell into one of four categories: alumni achievement, student athletic/activity achievement, staff achievement and contributor achievement. A questionnaire detailing each nominee’s accomplishments had to be completed and submitted by Aug. 15.

In the area of staff achievement, the inaugural class of Hall of Famers included two honorees: Ken Bueltel and Ben Meseke.

Bueltel, who served as the boys basketball coach from 1953 to 1972, compiled a record of 309-152. Additionally, he taught history, served as the school’s athletic director and helped raise money for the activities complex which now bears his name.

Meseke also coached the boys basketball team. During his coaching stint, Hayden High School made 13 state tournament appearances, earning six championship titles, including one at the end of a perfect season in 1983. He also coached 19 of 20 cross-country teams to qualify for state meets. Those teams claimed another six state titles.

Additionally, during the two decades he spent at Hayden from 1973 to 1997, he taught advanced mathematics courses.

Toward the end of his time at the high

IT’S IMPORTANT TO CELEBRATE CATHOLIC EDUCATION, CELEBRATE OUR 110 YEARS AND THE IMPORTANCE OF OUR ALUMNI AND THE HAYDEN COMMUNITY. SHELLY BUHLER HAYDEN PRESIDENT

school, Meseke served as assistant principal.

According to Shelly Buhler, Hayden president, approximately 150 people attended the inaugural banquet which was “a great evening of celebrating and reminiscing, just acknowledging these contributions these individuals had with Hayden as well as thanking them for their contributions.”

Accepting on behalf of his father, Mark Bueltel said his dad was a humble man and would “probably act like he was not thrilled, but in his heart, he’d be very appreciative for the feelings people gave back to him.”

Rick Strecker, a member of the class of ’76, received the honor for alumni achievement.

During his senior year, Strecker

served as student council president and was athlete of the year. After college, he returned to Hayden where he remained for 33 years, serving as a science teacher and head coach for girls basketball and track, leading the teams to five state championship titles. Additionally, he served as the school’s president for more than two decades.

“I was fortunate to go to high school here and then worked here for 33 years, and they were great years,” Strecker said. “So, receiving this kind of an honor with the incredible people that are also being honored is really special to me.”

Ken McGarity, who was honored for contributor achievement, volunteered at the school from 1977 to 2017, accumulating more than 16,000 hours of volunteer work in a variety of areas, including concessions, spirit wear and PACE (Parents and Alumni for Catholic Education).

Finally, Mark Turgeon was honored for his accomplishments as a student athlete at Hayden. A member of Hayden’s class of ’83, Turgeon played on the boys basketball team that won consecutive class 4A championships in 1982 and 1983, then went on to play for University of Kansas coach Larry Brown in the 1986 NCAA Final Four.

Building upon the success of the inaugural Hall of Fame banquet, Buhler said, is important.

“It’s important to celebrate Catholic education, celebrate our 110 years and the importance of our alumni and the

Hayden community and to celebrate and acknowledge the accomplishments of our Hall of Fame class members and what they gave back to Hayden.”

To that end, Buhler and Sandstrom both said it’s important to not only “honor our traditions but also to invest in our future.”

The current campus is more than 50 years old, and is in need of some infrastructure updates, as well as educational enhancements in areas such as computer lab modernization and science lab updates. Most important though, both Buhler and Sandstrom said it’s vital for Hayden to continue to exist, especially as the capital city’s only Catholic high school.

As part of the stewardship campaign, at least $500,000 will be earmarked for the Hayden Catholic High School Foundation, which serves as the school’s endowment. Nearly one in three students receive some form of tuition assistance through the endowment and its numerous established scholarships. And that, according to both Buhler and Sandstrom, will definitely invest in Hayden’s future.

“If the impact of Hayden stops when our students graduate,” said Sandstrom, “then we haven’t done a very good job.

There’s a sense of pride from teachers, from alumni and from current students when there are Hayden graduates out there doing great things in a multitude of ways — including serving others and, in turn, serving God.”

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LOCAL NEWS

JANUARY 21, 2O22 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Ministry transplanted from Brazil has blossomed in archdiocese

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Of all the challenges the Sisters of the Fraternity the Poor of Jesus Christ have faced over the past 10 years, there is one that stands above all others.

It wasn’t the 2018 fire that seriously damaged their convent, although that was the scariest thing that happened.

And it wasn’t dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic for the past two years, although it temporarily shut down their homeless ministry and they all caught the virus.

Rather, the most difficult thing the Sisters from Brazil have dealt with has been this: communication.

“The most challenging thing, if you ask each one of us, was learning English,” said Sister Miracles of the Little Way, the provincial.

This weekend, the Sisters will be marking the 10th anniversary of the arrival of the first three Sisters here in the archdiocese on Jan. 22, 2012, and the establishment of their first house in the United States.

There will be a free concert and eucharistic adoration beginning 7 p.m. on Jan. 21 in the parish hall of the Cathedral of St. Peter, 409 N. 15th St., Kansas City, Kansas.

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann will be the main celebrant of a Mass at 7 p.m. on Jan. 22 at the cathedral.

All are welcome to attend both events.

As befitting their Franciscan character as a mendicant community, the story of how the Poor of Jesus Christ got established in the United States begins with their ministry of begging.

The community’s founder, Father Gilson Sobreiro, PJC, made mission cooperative visits to the archdiocese to raise funds for his order and their ministry in Brazil.

While here, he got to know Father Tom Hesse, former pastor of St. Bernard Parish in Wamego and a board member of P.R.A.Y. — Project Rescue of Amazon Youth — and one of the founders, Sally Savery, from Wamego.

Savery became Sister Magdalena of the Sacred Heart with the Poor of Jesus Christ.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

Sister Sentinelle, PJC, hands a cantaloupe to Keith Winterhalter, a parishioner of St. Joseph in Shawnee. The Sisters of the Fraternity the Poor of Jesus Christ sold produce and flowers at churches this past summer to support the order’s special-needs fund, which helps mission houses in 16 countries throughout the world. The Sisters will celebrate the 10th anniversary of their arrival in the archdiocese on Jan. 21 with a free concert and eucharistic adoration beginning 7 p.m. in the parish hall of the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kansas, and a Mass on Jan. 22 at 7 p.m. at the cathedral.

Father Hesse visited Father Gilson in São Paulo and admired their way of life and ministry. He and Father Gary Pennings convinced Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann to allow the Sisters, a public association of the faithful, to establish their American foundation in the archdiocese.

Their first convent, for two-anda-half years, was the second floor of the former Catholic Worker House, Shalom House, in Kansas City, Kansas.

In the spring of 2015, the Sisters moved into the vacant convent of Blessed Sacrament Parish, at 2226 Troup Ave. in Kansas City, Kansas. The building, now the Mission House of Our Lady of Guadalupe, was damaged by a fire that began in the basement on Aug. 15, 2018.

Following in the footsteps of St. Francis, who had a special love for the poor, the Sisters focus on the poor and struggling.

“Our main ministry here is street ministry,” said Sister Mariana Disciple of the Divine Master. “We serve the poor in Kansas and Missouri. We go every Saturday and Tuesday [to give food and clothing to the homeless],

and we have volunteers from many parishes who help us and support us with their time but also donating food.”

Much of their ministry is directed to the nearby Hispanic community.

“We have eucharistic adoration every Monday at Blessed Sacrament Church,” said Sister Mariana. “We work most weeks evangelizing. We have a couples retreat and a couples group we support. We have a young adult group called Rescue Me.” They go to Hispanic prayer groups and preach, give spiritual direction, hold retreats for girls in discernment and provide a daily rosary podcast in conjunction with the Holy Family School of Faith. Unfortunately, because of the pandemic, they had to cease their prison ministry but hope to resume it eventually.

“We also have a program — Be Sober — which works like Alcoholic Anonymous for the Hispanic community,” said Sister Mariana.

In addition to their ministry to the poor, the Sisters have also brought a piece of their Brazilian culture. Since 2015, they’ve led volunteers in the creation of

ACROSS 1 Pacify 5 Sports shoe projection 10 Baby powder 14 Buckeye State 15 Cowboy John 16 Region 17 South American country 18 Last letter of Greek alphabet 19 Colored horse 20 Break 22 East southeast 23 Type of cheese 24 Transgressions 26 Constellation 28 Ocean 29 Swiss city 32 Saloon 34 Gone by 35 Visor 39 This is my __ given for you 41 Expression of surprise 42 Biblical weed 46 Ultras 51 Sun’s name 52 Ancient empire 55 Wife of Ahasuerus 57 Avenue 58 No room for them in the __ 60 Sister of Rachel COPYRIGHT © BY CLIFF LEITCH, THE CHRISTIAN BIBLE REFERENCE SITE, WWW.CHRISTIANBIBLEREFERENCE.ORG. USED BY PERMISSION

61 63 65 69 70 72 73 74 75 76 77 78

beautiful carpets of colored sawdust, with intricate designs, for Corpus Christi processions. They are called “tapete.”

Of course, it would be impossible for their ministries to function without all kinds of support from parishioners and parishes in Kansas and Missouri.

“I would summarize everything with the word ‘amazing,’” said Sister Miracles. “We would not be able to carry [out] our ministry if we didn’t have the support of so many priests and parishioners of their parishes.

“We are very thankful for every person who comes through the doors of our house to give us donations for the homeless, canned goods, time and treasure for the fixing of our building.

But also, this beautiful spiritual friendship we have with so many people.”

Currently, there are five Sisters at the Kansas City, Kansas, house, minus two who had to leave due to immigration problems. There are a total of 26 Sisters in the United States at houses in Kansas City, Kansas; Baltimore; Cedartown, Georgia; Los Angeles; and Birmingham, Alabama.

Radiuses Wrath Kingly Aroma Broker Corn syrup brand Comedian Jay Talks Middle East Ruler Adam and Eve’s garden Sharpen a razor Precede

DOWN 1 Lawmen 2 Excuse me!

3 Italian money 4 Hair __ 5 Cash with order (abr.)

6 Tinseled cloth 7 Potato sprouts 8 Heavenly being 9 British drink 10 Tropical edible root 11 Waken 12 Person in charge 13 Fourth son of Ham 21 Bee’s home 23 Instrument to guide oxen 25 No

27 Airport abbr.

29 Chitchat 30 Self-esteem 31 Cain fled to this land 33 Animal doctor 36 Hearing part 37 Her 38 Youngest son of Noah 40 Affirmation 43 Tree 44 Deteriorate 45 Samuel’s mentor 47 Baker’s dozen 48 Beige 49 First woman 50 France & Germany river 52 Let out of prison early 53 Dodged 54 Done over 56 Monetary unit 59 Silent __ 60 Slow 62 Cast metal 64 Raise 66 Match 67 Opera solo 68 The __ is my shepherd 70 American Cancer Society (abbr.)

71 Teaspoon (abbr.)

Solution on page 16

ARCHDIOCESAN ANNUAL REPORT 2021

Parishioners exude generosity, even in difficult times

D

ear friends, The fruit of gratitude is joy.

I recently saw an idea that will foster gratitude and joy and can be used in place of one of those New Year’s resolutions we are not always so faithful in keeping. Next to a large jar, place a stack of small pieces of paper. Each day, write down the good things that happened. At the end of the year, or earlier if needed, read each slip of paper and reflect on the good things for which you are grateful to God.

Why we give In heaven, money will not matter; in fact, there will be no need for it to exist. Our chief financial officer says this is her definition of heaven: There is no money and there are no money problems! In heaven there also is no pain, no suffering, no death, no anger, no fighting, no violence. There will we finally know enduring peace. There will we finally experience the true joy of seeing God face to face. There will we live eternally. In anticipation of this heaven, we are grateful today.

Expressing our gratitude in worship of our ever-merciful and all-powerful God is how we experience joy here on earth. That type of joy is enduring and influences society for the better.

Money and its meaning Naturally, this letter is about money, because it is about our annual financial report.

We can analyze the finances in many ways, and indeed, this is a very detailed report. One might even need a magnifying glass to get all the details! We show financial numbers in this level of detail to provide transparency, so one can see where the money came from and on what it was spent in furtherance of the church’s mission.

To get the big picture, there is something to be said for looking at the numbers at a higher level. For example, one might be concerned that the archdiocesan chancery operations lost over $5 million in fiscal year 202021. However, as explained in these pages by our chief financial officer, this is not unusual in a year when capital campaign revenue recorded in previous years is being distributed. Generally, spending was lower in fiscal year 2020-21 than the previous year as ministry departments continued to adapt to the COVID environment through virtual meetings and events.

I am grateful that the people of the archdiocese continued, even in uncertain and difficult times, to be generous givers. That generosity bears fruit every day on college campuses, at Villa St. Francis, in rural youth activities, at Prairie Star Ranch and its associated camps and retreats, in the catechesis of children, in our parish schools, with various consultants providing help and leadership to parish staffs, through Catholic Charities in its many locations throughout the archdiocese and its summer food program and resource bus and to every parish that participated in

the One Faith, One Family, One Future in Christ campaign. It is amazing what is accomplished through the collective generosity of so many people. I believe there is no limit to what we can do to worship Jesus and to be his hands and feet in today’s world.

One Faith, One Family, One Future in Christ update The solicitation phase of the One Faith, One Family, One Future in Christ campaign is complete, and I appreciate your commitment to fulfilling your pledge to this vital effort. To date, we have funded and distributed cases for Evangelization, the Priest Retirement Residence and Endowment, the Villa St. Francis building improvements and a portion of the Priest Pension Plan funding.

We anticipate being able to complete the funding of the Priest Pension plan in fiscal year 2022-23. The Parish Property Revitalization fund case, to help consolidated parishes with building issues often caused by multiple church campuses being consolidated into one parish, will receive the remainder of the pledges and we anticipate it will fall about $1.3 million short of its goal. The remaining cases of the campaign, to purchase the Villa St. Francis building and make sorely needed improvements to Savior Pastoral Center, will go unfunded. Villa St. Francis has secured ownership of the building by assuming the existing HUD loan from the previous owner.

To date, parishes have received over $7 million in the parish share component of the campaign, which will be used for specific local needs. Additional funds will be shared as pledges are collected.

On the horizon In December, you received a letter from me about our efforts to secure funding for our Respect Life ministries, including our programs Walking with Moms in Need and the Gabriel Project that support women who

choose to give birth and Project Rachel and Project Joseph that support women and men who have chosen or been affected by abortion. We are also excited about the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of so many children in the state foster care system.

It is important, as a Catholic community that believes in the sanctity of life, that we support life both pre- and post-birth. Critical to these efforts is the ability of Kansans to determine common-sense protections from the abortion industry for women and children.

Under the current decision from the Kansas Supreme Court, all previous legal protections approved by the Kansas legislatures are presumed unconstitutional. A parent may no longer need to be notified if a minor child undergoes a surgical or chemical abortion.

Taxpayers may be forced, against their consciences, to pay for abortions. A portion of the Respect Life Appeal will go to educate Kansans on the Value Them Both amendment to be voted on by Kansas voters in August of 2022. The name of this amendment is the key. We value both the woman and the child, and our efforts support both.

I continue to be edified and inspired by the generosity of the parishioners of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. Your support of our parishes, our schools, Catholic Charities, the Catholic Education Foundation, Call to Share and so many of our ministries, reflects the depth of your faith in Jesus Christ and your love for his church. My commitment to you is to strive to become a better shepherd and a better servant leader for the church. I also pledge to be transparent in reporting to you how your sacrificial gifts are being used to build up God’s kingdom in northeast Kansas.

Gratefully yours in Jesus, the Lord of Life,

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann Archbishop of Kansas City in Kansas

FROM THE CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas OPERATING STATEMENT FOR 2020

Transparency

At the heart of the church’s ministry is facilitating for its members an encounter with the person of Jesus Christ. Central to what it means to be Catholic is the development of a friendship with Jesus through prayer and reflection.

Vicar for Clergy and Clergy Support Programs 12,953 28,339 $627,169 433,092 Liturgy and Sacramental Life 3,529 167,370 116,553 Office of Hispanic Ministry 12,488 8,085 322,098 345,688 Emporia-Hispanic Ministry 25,500 20,000 Totus Tuus 15,350 13,182 1,161 Savior Pastoral Center 655,870 407,473 266,799 406,064 325,000 325,000 Christ Peace House of Prayer 50,000 50,000 Campus Ministry: Donnelly College KCK 45,000 45,000 St. Lawrence Center-KU Lawrence 155,000 100,000 Didde Center-Emporia 86,500 90,500 Catholic Center-Washburn Topeka 78,000 78,000 Catholic Center-Haskell Lawrence 7,000 65,000 60,000 Other 34,873 61,039

6,000 8,500

T

he financial information you see on these pages shows you the sources (revenue) and uses (expense) of the funds at the archdiocese for the most recent fiscal year and the year prior.

A comparison of the two years and explanations of differences over $100,000 and 10% are provided. This statement agrees in total to the audited annual financial report posted on the archdiocesan website at: archkck.org/administration/finance-office/ . Some category amounts may differ due to updates in presentation.

There are essentially four classifications of sources of funds: Fees and Other Income, ACTS (Archbishop’s Call to Share Annual Appeal), Assessments and Collections and Cathedraticum. Following is a brief description of each.

Fees and Other Income: Some offices charge fees for services, such as School Fees to cover administration, Youth Camp registration fees, rental fees at Savior Pastoral Center, The Leaven. Additionally, investment earnings, contributions, and campaign donations are recorded here. By far the largest source is health and dental premiums for all covered employees of the archdiocese.

ACTS: This annual appeal is conducted each January-March to raise funds for the following fiscal year. Based on analysis and information produced by a committee of laity and priests, the Presbyteral Council makes a recommendation to the archbishop for the allocation of funds.

Assessments and Collections: Includes amounts assessed to parishes or regions for Savior Pastoral Center and Youth Formation, as well as the Catholic Charities Christmas Collection and Priesthood Present and Future Collection.

Cathedraticum: Annual tax as provided under Canon Law Section 1263 for the bishop to fund the administrative costs of the diocese. The amount and method varies by diocese.

The uses of the above funds are listed down the page and are divided by categories which correspond to the Five Pastoral Priorities of the archbishop. A short explanation of each priority is provided under each heading. Additionally, use of funds for each line item is broken down between columns based on the origin of the funds received to pay for the spending. For example: Under the Pastoral Priority of Education is Communications. Communications received funding from restricted funds (Fees/Other Income), ACTS and Cathedraticum. The total spending for the office of Communications is found in the Total Column.

The bottom line is the net of the income sources and uses. In cases where the net is negative, balances saved from previous years are used. It is also important to know that all funds received with donor restrictions are accounted for to ensure that those funds are used only for the purpose the donor intends.

The results Overall, fiscal years 2020 yielded a positive bottom line while fiscal year 2021 shows a loss of over $5 million. These results were due to the influx of capital campaign pledges in fiscal year 2020 and the beginning of distributions to the campaign cases in fiscal year 2021.

Capital campaigns usually have at least two years of raising pledges, three+ years of receiving pledges and then another few years of spending the campaign funds to execute the campaign cases. Because accounting rules require that we record the pledges when received, we have a mismatch of results because in the years when the pledges are made, we record the revenue, but we have not spent the money (and may not have even received the money yet). Then, once all of the funds have been received, we start to spend the money. In those years, we have no capital campaign revenue, but we will be recording the capital campaign distributions as expenses, yielding bottom line losses. This can make the reading of the financial statements in the years of capital campaigns very confusing!

2020 Summary: • Of the $66,705,840 in revenue in 2020, $16,628,999 was campaign income, and • Of the $52,544,519 in expenses in 2020, $5,603,601 was campaign expense.

• Therefore, of the $14,161,321 in net income, $11,025,398 is from the capital campaign.

The difference in net income is a net income of just over $3 million dollars.

2021 Summary: • Of the $58,847,965 in revenue in 2021, $5,296,467 was campaign income, and • Of the $64,643,476 in expenses in 2021, $18,950,115 was campaign expense.

• Therefore, of the ($5,795,511) in net loss, ($14,653,648) is from the capital campaign.

Additional information In addition to the operating statement presented, there are funds, including national collections and special emergency collections, we call pass-through funds, which are collected at each parish, sent to the archdiocese and then forwarded on to their final destination. This schedule shows the reach of our collective generosity beyond the boundaries of our parishes and our archdiocese.

The sidebar on Transparency is included to shed light on the funds used in our efforts to protect children and vulnerable adults through background checks and training all employees and volunteers in the archdiocese who have interactions with children in the scope of their duties. When an allegation of abuse is made, there are also costs associated with victim assistance and canonically-required assistance for the priest.

Funded by: ------------------> Revenue Expenses

Fees/Other Income Archbishop’s Call to Share Assessments and Collections Cathedraticum $53,154,725 $45,355,662 $5,920,841 $5,740,261 $4,039,575 $4,052,727 $3,590,699 $3,699,316 2020 2021 2020 2021 2020 2021 2020 2021

CONVERSION

Total Conversion

723,184

523,814

1,274,449

1,312,966

325,000

325,000

633,169

441,592

EVANGELIZATION

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

Evangelization 527,752 126,817 473,676 416,843 Evang. & Catholic Formation-Youth, Ranch & Camps 826,864 692,887 597,319 520,453 Rural Youth Outreach Programs 12,944 8,388 113,537 96,154 Urban Youth Outreach Programs 29,604 4,307 128,018 128,054 Urban Youth Outreach Capital Needs 13,579 Digital Resource Center 100 (96) Propagation of the Faith 6,490 53,369 Native American Evangelization Fund 3,600 3,500 Other 39,250 58,905 11,000 8,500 Total Evangelization

1,443,003

944,673

1,074,500

940,796

255,135

224,208

11,000

8,500

EDUCATION

An essential component of the church’s ministry is the education of the next generation of disciples, as well as the continuing formation of all its members.

Permanent Diaconate Office and Program 4,400 7,267 272,929 195,276 Vocations 17,581 25,108 152,631 155,103 Archdiocesan Education Office 367,303 343,356 229,810 267,647 Perfect Wings Program 15,568 17,000 100,071 96,993 Children’s Catechesis 9,487 96,316 85,780 Marriage and Family Life 36,829 15,440 308,219 292,497 Office of Protection and Care

437,951 372,924 Leaven Newspaper 1,158,746 1,187,912 44,067 Communications 13,000 13,000 75,000 106,469 98,914 School of Faith - Grant 303,900 200,000 High School Tuition Assistance 225,000 225,000 Catholic Education Foundation 300,000 280,000 Bishop Ward Operations Assistance 125,000 125,000 Seminarians 612,896 351,340 315,435 711,717 Continuing Education for Priests 144,000 158,123 Ward H.S. Capital Improvements 100,000 100,000 Donnelly College Scholarships

Donnelly College Capital Needs 400,000 400,000 Elizabeth Ann Seton Tuition Assistance

382,892 364,063 Other 18,280 58,073 28,875 145,200 31,400 41,430 26,001 Total Education

2,254,090

2,018,496

2,188,876

2,058,640

1,487,527

1,765,303

578,295

442,992

OUTREACH: Serving Those in Need

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

Archdiocesan Tribunal 7,450 6,575 348,801 289,756 Special Needs 11,985 14,811 199,534 203,874 445 Social Justice 200 16,255 104,892 98,243 My House Initiative 18,461 3,145 99,178 11,317 Pro Life 7,145 5,699 213,412 208,267 Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas 450,000 400,000 417,918 544,640 Villa St. Francis-Geriatric Assistance 120,000 240,000 150,000 140,000 El Centro - Kansas City 40,000 35,000 El Centro-Topeka 40,000 35,000 Other 104,264 318,687 30,000 55,500 45,500 Total Outreach

269,505

605,142

1,307,017

1,131,701

417,918

544,640

404,301

335,701

STEWARDSHIP

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

Capital Campaign Expenses 1,815,797 424,681 Campaign Distributions and Bad Debt 4,001,187 18,245,838 1,912 36,000 34,000 144,000 Stewardship/Development 41,600 40,412 308,198 318,590 446,042 427,704 School/Parish Emergency Fund 50,994 40,000 Urban Core Operations Support 275,719 251,078 Urban Core Capital Support 112,285 100,000 Priest Retirement Fund 195,000 195,000 725,000 740,000 Finance 292,045 308,063 Human Resources 325,725 292,800 31,610 73,596 Other Property Expenses 29,534 39,756 50,663 Accounting 652,479 642,948 8,865 46,347 Financial and Controls Auditor 115,809 109,579 Archives 18,549 19,477 Real Estate/Construction 209,884 139,896 Mission Strategy

102,735 27,776 Cor Christi Grants and fees 500,000 421,905 Depreciation of physical assets 656,680 593,376 Other 19,458 56,500 22,320 Total Stewardship

5,862,027

20,416,402

1,000,607

926,988

761,000

774,000

1,590,174

1,632,414

Total Pastoral Priorities

10,551,810

24,508,527

6,845,448

6,371,090

3,246,579

3,633,151

3,216,939

2,861,198

ARCHDIOCESAN ADMINISTRATION AND INSURANCE

General Expenses of the Archdiocese 16,791 528 Legal 17,836 Chancery 350,298 339,519 Archbishop Emeritus Office and Home Archbishop Office and Home 2,095 1,363 Administrative Services (Chancellor/VG, IT, etc) 20,748 27,018 Property and Liability Insurance Claims 1,178,663 762,570 Health and Dental Claims and Bad Debt 23,681,871 24,540,392 Other 24,915 $25,714,141

315,252 367,852

196,712 380,107 353,163

295,325 233,440 62,014 152,246 372,786 324,216

4,392

115,338

$1,617,478

$1,555,366

Total Administration and Insurance

$25,250,467

Total Expenses

$35,802,276 $50,222,668

$6,845,448

$6,371,090

$3,246,579

$3,633,151

$4,834,417

$4,416,565

Net

$17,352,449 $(4,867,006)

$(924,607)

$(630,829)

792,996

$419,577

$(1,243,718)

$(717,248)

Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas REVENUE ACTUAL 2020 vs 2021

0 AND 2021

Actual Actual Revenues Revenues 5% 6% Year Ended Year Ended 3%

June 30. 2020 June 30. 2021 9% 16% Archdiocesan Assessments and Collections $7,630,274 18.8% $7,752,044 23.7% Archbishops Call To Share Annual Appeal 5,920,841 14.6% 5,740,261 17.5% 18% Fees Generated by Offices and Other 7,227,387 17.8% 9,116,581 27.9% 41% Net Investment Income 1,139,235 2.8% 2,867,012 8.8% 1 2 640,123 461,430 ($178,692) -28% 24% Bequests and Contributions 1,936,537 4.8% 1,945,328 5.9% 167,370 120,082 (47,287) -28% 28% 334,586 353,773 19,187 6% One Faith, One Family, One Future 14%

25,500 20,000 (5,500) -22% in Christ and Private Appeal 16,657,499 41.1% 5,296,467 16.2%

13,182 16,511 3,329 25%

19% 17% (109,133) -9% 1,247,669 1,138,536 2

50,000 50,000 - -0% $40,511,773 100% $32,717,692 100%

Total Year over Year Change 6 $66,705,840 58,847,967 ($7,857,873) -12% 1 2020 2021 $ %

0

45,000 155,000 86,500 78,000 72,000 40,873

45,000 100,000 90,500 78,000 60,000 69,539

(55,000) 4,000 (12,000) 28,666

0% -35% 5% 0% -17% 70%

2

$2,955,802

$2,603,372

($352,430)

-12%

Not included in pie chart:Health and Dental Insurance Premiums

26,194,067

48%

1,001,428 1,424,183 126,481 157,622 13,579 4 6,490 3,600 50,250

543,660 ³ 1,213,340 4 104,543 132,361 - - 53,369 3,500 67,405

26,130,273

50%

On Faith, One Family, One Future in Christ and Private Appeal

Fees generated by offices and other

Archdiocesan assessments and collections

Net Investment Income

Archbishops Call to Share Annual Appeal

Bequests and contributions

Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas EXPENSES ACTUAL 2020 vs 2021

(457,769) -46% (210,843) -15% (21,938) -17% (25,261) -16% (13,579) (4) -100% 46,879 722% (100) -3% 17,155 34%

Actual Actual Revenues Revenues 11% Year Ended Year Ended

June 30.

2020 June 30. 2021 0 10% Conversion $2,955,802 10.2% $2,603,372 6.5% 0 $2,783,637 $2,118,176 ($665,461) -24% Evangelization 2,783,637 9.6% 2,118,176 5.3% 38% Education 6,508,788 22.6% 6,285,430 15.7% 10% 59%

Outreach: Serving those in need 2,398,741 8.3% 2,617,183 6.5% Stewardship 11,029,605 38.2% 23,749,804 59.2% Administration 3,186,074 11.0% 2,729,115 6.8% 277,329 202,543 (74,786) -27% 23%

170,213 180,212 9,999 6% 8% 597,113 611,003 13,890 2%

115,639 113,993 (1,646) -1% $28,862,648 100% $40,103,081 100%

4 7

1

2

105,803 345,048 437,951 1,158,746 186,914 303,900 225,000 300,000 125,000 928,332 144,000 100,000 400,000 382,892 204,910

85,780 307,937 372,924 1,231,979 119,469 200,000 5 225,000 280,000 125,000 1,063,057 6 158,123 100,000 - 400,000 364,063 144,349

(20,023) (37,111) (65,027) 73,233 (67,445) (103,900) (20,000) 134,725 14,123 (18,829) (60,562)

-19% -11% -15% 6% -36% -34% 0% -7% 0% 15% 10% 0% 0% 0% 5% -30%

$6,508,788 $6,285,340

($223,358)

-3%

Not included in pie chart:Health and Dental Insurance Claims

44%

24,540,392

($59,920) -17% 7,611 4% 9,375 9% (103,177) -88% (6,591) -3% 96,722 11% 110,000 41% (5,000) -13% (5,000) -13% 174,423 92%

6 3 7 9 7 6 6

6

275,719 112,285 920,000 292,045 357,335 29,534 661,344 115,809 18,549 209,884 102,735 500,000 656,680 75,958

251,078 100,000 935,000 308,063 366,396 90,419 689,295 109,579 19,477 139,896 27,776 421,905 593,376 22,320

4

$11,029,605 $23,749,804

$12,720,199

115%

8

$25,676,574 $37,373,966

$11,697,392

46%

Evangelization

Stewardship

Outreach by Archdiocesan Entities: Program Services Provided by Catholic Charities of NE Kansas $22,512,243

1%

5 $52,544,518 $64,643,473 $12,098,955

23%

)

141%

$14,161,322 ($5,795,506) $(19,956,828)

TRANSPARENCY

2020 2021 Amount spent to assist victims with healing $58,968 $75,447 Counseling to aid in healing is offered to all victims. A Healing Assistance Coordinator works with victims to receive assistance.

Victim Settlement

1

1

$50,000

Priests Pay, benefits and retirement contribution $55,528 $36,438 Mental Health Counseling $4,560 $3,700 Canon 384 payments to credibly accused priests # of Priests

1

0

$60,088 2

$40,138 2

The Code of Canon Law section 384 requires the diocesan bishop to provide for the priest’s financial support and social assistance, including daily living expenses, health insurance and retirement. Normally, that is facilitated through the parish via Canon 222.1 where the Christian faithful are obliged to provide for the decent support of its ministers, however, in the case where a diocesan priest is not assigned to a parish, the responsibility falls back to his bishop. In the cases of these priests, the amounts also include mental health counseling.

Child Protection efforts $401,697 $331,369 All archdiocesan employees and volunteers who have substantial contact with children and youth are required to complete on-going training for the protection of minors.

Tuition Assistance Provided by Catholic Education Foundation $2,730,016 Additionally, the archdiocese conducts criminal background checks on each person under going this training.

Archdiocese remits 75% of Operation Rice Bowl, 75% of Catholic Campaign for Human Development and 50% of Catholic Commu1

nication Campaign. The amounts retained in the archdiocese are used to fund archdiocesan programs.

s

$401,563

47%

Outreach: Serving those in need

Special Emergency Collections: Disasters USCCB $20,194 2020 Beruit Explosion 8,858 $1,037,188

5 332,043 295,853 ($36,190) -11% 0 367,852 251,276 12 (116,576) -32% 4 350,298 401,533 51,235 15% 6 196,712 152,246 (44,466) -23% 6 382,202 374,150 (8,052) -2% 6 373,911 351,234 (22,676) -6% 13 1,178,663 762,570 (416,093) -35% 23,681,871 24,540,392 14 858,521 4% 8 4,392 140,253 135,861 3093%

6 $26,867,944 $27,269,507

7%

Conversion

For the Year Ended June 30, 2021

(24,641) -9% (12,285) -11% 15,000 2% 16,018 5% 9,061 3% 60,885 206% 27,951 4% (6,231) -5% 928 5% (69,988) -33% (74,959) -73% (78,095) -16% (63,304) -10% (53,638) -71%

16%

Education

National Collections: Propagation of Faith (Includes World Mission Sunday) $406,789 Holy Land 106,136 Retirement Fund for Religious 101,156 Operation Rice Bowl 76,473 American Bishops’ Overseas Appeal (CRS) 60,925 1 $2,398,741 $2,617,183 $218,442 9% Peter’s Pence (Collection for the Holy Father) 45,957 Black and Native American Missions 40,498

Church in Latin American 36,402 Catholic Home Mission Appeal 36,216 Aid to Church in Central and Eastern Europe 31,678 Catholic University of America 27,028 Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD) 25,674

1,815,797 424,681 10 ($1,391,116) -77% 0 4,039,099 18,423,838 11 14,384,739 356% Catholic Communication Campaign (CCC) 13,206 4 795,840 786,706 (9,134) -1% $1,008,136 50,994 40,000 (10,994) -22%

6% 5%

Administration

Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas HELP FOR THE NEEDY & DISASTER RELIEF

6 356,251 296,331 5 211,519 219,130 105,092 114,468 117,639 14,462 7 220,557 213,966

847,918 944,640

270,000 380,000 8 40,000 35,000

40,000 35,000 0 189,764 364,187 9

23,681,871

7%

NOTES Reduction in number of clergy paid and related support costs. Also, travel restrictions limited trips home for extern priests.

Efforts were made to reduce costs to cope with the continued struggle to book events in a pandemic. Operating revenues were down $215k.

3 FY 2020 included costs for the Enflame Convocation.

4 FY 2020 included National Catholic Youth Conference, which happens every other year.

5 Grant reduced due to reduced income in ACTS appeal during capital campaign and pandemic.

6 Cost per seminarian increased almost $7k as tuition increased year over year plus 5 moved from Conception college seminary studies to SLU/Kendrick, which costs more.

7 Office was eliminated as a part of pandemic cost cutting.

8 FY 2020 was grant was lower than normal due to timing of payments.

9 Large grants given to inner city parish schools to help during pandemic.

10 Campaign consultants ended engagement in Dec. 2020 11 Campaign case grants distributed for Priest Retirement Home and Endowment, Villa St. Francis Improvements in FY 2021.

12 Legal fees returning to a more normal level 13 Property and liability claims and expenses were abnormally high in FY2020 14 Other income is special reserve fund Bridges program. Cathedratic is 2 years of payments to the Apostolic Nunciature, as payment in FY20 was missed.

1

2

Compliance with this program is checked by the archdiocesan internal auditor on a rotational basis as well as United States Conference of Catholic Bishops auditors on an annual basis.

This office also provides for an investigator.For additional information please go to: https:// www.archkck.org/virtusinfo Legal Fees

$227,997

$10,885

THE SHEPHERD’S VOICE 8:30 a.m. Sundays on 92.9 FM and KEXS AM 1090 Encore Monday at 11:30 a.m.

JANUARY 21, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG

VATICAN

11

POPE JAMS

Pope pops by his favorite record store to say ‘hello’

By Carol Glatz Catholic News Service

R

OME (CNS) — Pope Francis took an evening ride in a white Fiat 500 to visit a record store he used to go to when in Rome as a car-

dinal.

Letizia Giostra, the store owner, told the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera that the surprise visit Jan. 11 was “an immense thrill.”

“The Holy Father is passionate about music and was already our client, years ago, when he was still a cardinal and would pass through Rome. Then, of course, we never saw him again. And now he came to visit us, to say ‘hello,’” she said.

Asked about the record he was holding under his arm when a Vatican reporter happened to see the pope emerge from the store, Giostra said, “It’s a gift we gave him, a record of classical music.”

Located right across from the Pantheon, the family-owned store, Stereo Sound, specializes in a wide variety of music, particularly opera and classical, on vinyl records and CDs. The store’s street-side display still showcased Christmas music albums, decorations and a small white Christmas tree adorned with 45 RPM records and cassette tapes when the pope was caught on camera by Javier Martínez-Brocal, a Vatican reporter and director of Rome Reports news agency.

Martínez-Brocal posted the video and photos on Twitter and explained he had been in the neighborhood when he saw the white Fiat with Vatican license plates and some police cars parked in front of the store around 7 p.m. He said the pope was inside for

CNS PHOTO/JAVIER MARTINEZ-BROCAL, ROME REPORTS

Pope Francis holds a record under his arm as he leaves the Stereo Sound record shop in Rome Jan. 11. The pope made a surprise visit to the music store he used to go to as a cardinal, receiving a record of classical music as a gift from the thrilled shop owner. about 12 minutes, visiting with the owner, her daughter and son-in-law.

Just one week ago, the store’s Instagram feed posted an autographed copy of Patti Smith’s “Land” CD, to mark her Dec. 30 birthday and reminisce about the American songwriter-singer’s many visits to the store.

“It was an immense joy, I was so excited, darned shyness that blocks your speech, that I couldn’t say anything to her, only if she could kindly autograph my CD. There were no smartphones back then to capture the moment. I’m left only with the memory in my mind and my (heart emoji),” the @discoteca.

pantheon post said.

The pope has made it a fairly frequent habit to get in a car and go visit people or — less frequently — to a store to conduct his own business.

His first full day as pope March 14, 2013, he went to his hotel, picked up his luggage, paid his bill and thanked the staff. He went to drop off his eyeglasses for a new pair of lenses in 2015 at an optician in the city center and he stopped by a store specializing in orthopedic wear not far from his Vatican residence in 2016.

In a 2016 interview with “La Voz del Pueblo,” the pope said he missed being

able to go out and walk or go to a pizzeria.

“I could order it, but it is not the same. It’s nice to go there,” he told the Argentine news outlet.

“I’ve always been big on walking,” he said, saying it is “enchanting” to just move along the city streets or ride the subway.

He admitted he is known for being “undisciplined. I don’t really follow protocol very much; it feels cold. But when it is for official business, I totally stick to it.”

Pope’s music library contains nearly 2,000 CDs, includes Elvis

C

By Carol Glatz atholic News Service VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Francis’ music library contains nearly 2,000 CDs and 19 vinyl records, according to the Vatican cardinal who is curating the collection.

While it is mostly made up of classical music, it also includes: an old album of Edith Piaf’s greatest hits; Argentine tango tunes, especially by Astor Piazzolla; and a 25-disc collection of Elvis Presley’s Gospel songs, said Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi, president of the Pontifical Council for Culture.

In an interview with the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera Jan. 13, Cardinal Ravasi said he was not at all surprised when he saw images of Pope Francis walking out of a Rome music store with an album tucked under his arm Jan. 11.

“In fact, I can’t wait to find out what it is. I hope he sends it to me soon,” the cardinal said.

Cardinal Ravasi said he started receiving and curating the pope’s collection of music more than three years ago. It began when the pope sent him a few CDs, saying he knew how much

CNS PHOTO/COURTESY PONTIFICAL COUNCIL FOR CULTURE

Pope Francis’ music library is pictured at the Pontifical Council for Culture in this photo published Jan. 12 to Twitter by Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi, president of the council. Cardinal Ravasi said he started curating the collection more than three years ago and that it now contains nearly 2,000 CDs and 19 vinyl records. the cardinal liked music, too.

“I replied that I would love to know what music he likes and that’s how it started,” with the pope regularly sending him music, the cardinal said. “I told

him I was thinking of creating a music library and, at one point, he sent me a whole box of discs [saying], ‘I’ve already listened to these.’”

Today, the culture office has catalogued

and keeps a detailed record of 1,728 CDs and 19 record albums from the pope.

While some of the recordings are part of the pope’s own personal collection, many of them are gifts the pope has received over the years, Cardinal Ravasi said. They cover a wide variety of genres, which is typical of a true music lover, he added.

The cardinal said the pope told him his love of music came from listening to an opera program on the radio with his mother when he was a boy.

“He sent me the complete collection of recordings at the Teatro Colón (main opera house) of Buenos Aires,” he said.

What stands out, he said, is that often what the pope sends is accompanied by handwritten notes with “extraordinary, expert” comments about the piece. “You can see that he listens to the music carefully.”

Cardinal Ravasi said he has compiled all the commentary and would like to publish it someday as well as see if the papal music library, housed in the council’s office, could be open to experts since the collection “is indicative of his personality and culture.”

CLASSIFIEDS

12 EMPLOYMENT Accountant - Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas is seeking an organized, passionate accounts payable accountant. This position is responsible for managing all payable functions; and analyzing and verifying documentation for proper approvals, authenticity, account coding designations and vendor statement reconciliations. Bachelor’s degree in accounting preferred. Apply at: www.catholiccharitiesks.org/careers.

Teachers - The St. Joseph Early Education Center is looking for additional staff. A teacher is needed for a full-time three-year-olds room and two teachers to work with toddlers. Salary is competitive. Benefits include medical, dental and vision insurance.

Refugee health navigator and health and benefits coordinator positions - Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas is hiring two full-time members to its refugee health and benefits team! These positions will help refugee clients access health-related benefits and navigate the local health care system. For more information, please visit: www.catholiccharitiesks.org and click on “About Us” and “Careers” to view these open positions.

Principal - St. Therese School, a K - 8th grade school located in Kansas City, is seeking a principal for the 2022 - 23 school year. A successful candidate will have the vision to lead by personal witness and exhibit passion in articulating the mission of St. Therese School. The new principal will inspire and lead our faculty and staff, and minister to our families. All interested persons should complete the application on the Diocese of Kansas City - St. Joseph website at: https://recruiting.paylocity. com/Recruiting/Jobs/Details/806143.

Full-time teacher - St. James Academy is seeking a full-time teacher to help initiate our new rhetoric and media arts program for the 2022-23 school year. The aim of this new program will be to teach the human roots of classical rhetoric while also considering the impact of modern digital technology, all through a Catholic worldview. Students will learn to contemplate the media they consume and learn to create media of consequence. Candidates should have a high degree of technical acumen in media, feel comfortable with project-based learning and have a desire to build a new program. Ideal candidates will be practicing Catholics with a passion for evangelization and discipleship who are experienced secondary teachers. Those interested should apply online at: archkck.org/catholicschools/ employment/teacher-application-page/ and send a cover letter and resume to the St. James principal, Dr. Shane Rapp, at: srapp@sjakeepingfaith.org.

Elementary school principal - St. Paul School in Olathe is seeking an elementary school principal beginning the 2022-23 school year. St. Paul is a growing parish and school community. The successful applicant will be a faith-filled, practicing Catholic who understands the mission of Catholic education and has Kansas licensure in educational leadership. Substantial principal experience is required. Candidates must demonstrate strong leadership skills and success in an academic setting.

The principal ensures successful completion of learning objectives for students, manages the finances within the school budget and also serves as manager for the preschool director. The principal collaborates with the pastor and parish staff. Apply online at: www.arch kckcs.org (then select “Employment”) and send resume and credentials to Superintendent Dr. Vincent Cascone, Catholic Schools Office, Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, or email to: vcascone@archkckcs.org.

Math teacher - The students at Holy Spirit School need a terrific math teacher able to help them learn pre-algebra and algebra. Their current teacher will be on maternity leave from March – May 2022. So, if you have a Kansas certification or a Kansas substitute license with this mathematical ability, we would love to talk with YOU! This position will be Monday – Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Please contact Michele Watson at: mwatson@ hscatholic.org if you are interested in learning more about this position.

Teacher - Holy Spirit School is seeking a certified math teacher or someone with a Kansas substitute license with the ability to teach geometry to a small group of advanced placement students. The current teacher will be on maternity leave from March – May 2022. The hours for this position are Monday – Friday, 6:45 – 7:40 a.m. Please contact Michele Watson at: mwatson@ hscatholic.org if you are interested in learning more about this position.

Staff job openings - Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, has the following staff job openings available: admissions counselor, advancement officer, Allied Health intake specialist and part-time accounting assistant. Find job descriptions and details at: www. donnelly.edu/careers.

Elementary school principal – Sacred Heart School in Emporia is seeking a highly-motivated individual with demonstrated skill in spiritual and academic leadership of both students and staff. In addition, familiarity with enrollment management, technology and the tithing/stewardship model would be considered especially desirable. 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 at: vcascone@archkckcs.org. Deadline for applications is Feb. 11. For specific questions regarding the school or parish, please contact Father Carter Zielinski at: czielinski@archkck.org.

Faculty/adjunct faculty positions available - Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, a Catholic college offering higher education for those who may not otherwise be served, has the following faculty job openings: Associates degree in nursing specialists (ADN), Information systems faculty coordinator and nursing faculty. Adjunct faculty openings include: accounting, biology, clinical nursing and nursing. Find job descriptions and details on: www.donnelly.edu/careers.

Latin teacher - Christ the King School is seeking a Latin teacher for the 2021-22 school year. Partnering with parents in their role as primary educators, Christ the King School extends the mission of the church in forming true disciples of Jesus Christ. Through a Catholic classic liberal arts education centered on Christ, we provide an integrated approach, fostering a love for truth, beauty and goodness. We seek to instill a natural desire for wisdom and virtue in all students. We seek candidates who not only possess a deep understanding of Latin but also possess a love of lifelong learning. The ideal teacher at Christ the King has not only developed a level of mastery in the discipline that they teach, but also understands how that discipline belongs within the context of a strong liberal arts education. Classical languages give us access to a wealth of Western thought that aids in the formation of virtuous Catholic souls; therefore, six years of Latin (3rd – 8th grades) is not an elective, but is part of the core curriculum at Christ the King. Qualifications include: bachelor’s degree, master’s degree preferred and reflected in compensation; mastery of subject matters to be taught, as demonstrated by references and education; two years of teaching experience preferred, with exceptions granted for outstanding candidates who demonstrate a record of effective leadership in a relevant field of work. The applicant must also possess a love of teaching, a passion for mentoring and a desire to continue in his or her own learning. Interested applicants should send a cover letter, resume and CV to Cathy Fithian, principal, at: cfithian@ctkkck.org or mail to Christ the King School, 3027 N. 54th St., Kansas City, KS 66104.

Accountant - St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood is seeking a full-time accountant. Duties include processing accounts payable, supervising weekly collection counting, processing payroll, preparing financial reports and other accounting duties. This position works with another accountant, communicates with parishioners and staff, and reports to the parish administrator. For more information, go to: stmichael cp.org and click on “Our Parish,” then “Employment Opportunities.” Submit cover letter and resume to: denise. greene@stmichaelcp.org.

Live-in or live-out caregivers (assistants) - Looking for purposeful volunteer or paid work? Live-in or liveout caregivers (assistants) needed for all shifts with adults with intellectual disabilities. L’Arche Heartland has five residential group homes that house a max of five individuals, located in old Overland Park. Duties include but are not exclusive to: be responsible for the overall growth and direction of the home; foster appropriate relationships between all members of the home; foster positive and supportive relationships with families and professionals; attend community nights and other community events. Qualifications: a person who has lived or worked in a community with persons with disabilities preferred. A person with good organizational skills; good communication skills; and the ability to deal with conflict objectively. Have a valid driver’s license and a high school diploma or equivalent.

Pass all required background checks; pass required pre-employment readiness evaluation. All training provided after hire: CPR/first aid; medication administration; rights and responsibilities — abuse, neglect and exploitation; emergency preparedness and documentation. Hourly pay for live-out assistants dependent on experience: range from $13.50-$15/hour. Perks for full-time employees: eight paid holidays; flexible hours available; health, dental, vision insurance benefits (premiums paid by L’Arche Heartland), 401(k) and PTO. Email letter of inquiry, contact information and experience to: heartland@larcheks.org Consultant for student services/special education - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking a consultant for student services/special education. This position is responsible for assisting schools in meeting the needs of students with special learning needs enrolled in the Catholic schools within the archdiocese. This position provides on-site consultation with principals and teachers regarding students with special needs; provides on-site training for teachers; and engages in the student improvement teams. Additionally, the incumbent assists schools in accessing funds from federal title programs to support students with special needs. The ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic in good standing. This position requires a master’s degree in special education with at least five years’ experience in special education. To apply, visit the website at: www.archkck.org/jobs. Application deadline is Feb. 1.

St. Mary’s food kitchen manager - Do you have a calling to serve others? Do you want to feel fulfilled at the end of your workday? If you do, St. Mary’s Food Kitchen is seeking to hire a full-time manager. The ideal candidate has a calling to serve the hungry in an urban context. You will assist coordinators and volunteers from supporting religious organizations serve a delicious and nutritious meal to the underprivileged in Kansas City, Kansas. Reporting to the board of directors of Hot Lunch Service, Inc., you will need to have good communication (writing and verbal) and management skills.

Experience in fund-raising, marketing and community outreach are beneficial but not required. Salary range is $35,000 to $50,000 based on experience and education. A college degree is preferred. Interested? Please submit a current resume, letter of interest and references, along with contact information, to: hotlunch serviceinc@gmail.com.

Development coordinator - L’Arche Heartland is a nonprofit organization that provides residential housing for adults with intellectual disabilities located in old Overland Park. We are looking to hire an enthusiastic, entrylevel development coordinator to secure financial support for our organization. The development coordinator will set and achieve fundraising goals; maintain knowledge of fundraising events; maintain a social media presence; and craft engaging ways to share our story.

The successful applicant will build lasting relationships with donors and keep them informed on how their financial input is making the world a better place. A new position in the organization, the development coordinator will have the opportunity to build the development function of L’Arche Heartland requiring preferred candidates to be self-motivated, energetic and highly organized.

Responsibilities: develop and execute L’Arche Heartland’s comprehensive annual fundraising plan; secure financial support from individuals, foundations and corporations; manage the implementation/utilization of Bloomerang donor management system and coordinate with staff responsible for data entry and gift processing; develop and maintain an ongoing moves-management relationship strategy with major donors; coordinate external communications and marketing efforts including print and social media; create and execute a strategy for a large, sustained base of annual individual donors; coordinate contracted grant writing efforts managing grants, proposals and reports for all foundation and corporate fundraising. Qualifications: BA in business, nonprofit management, or related field; previous experience in a nonprofit setting preferred; demonstrated excellence in organizational and communication skills; superb oral, written and persuasive communication skills; possess ability to set, manage and meet personal and organizational timelines and deadlines; have a high level of computer literacy (i.e., MS Office), experience with online donor database systems and an ability to self-direct their own mastery of such; ability to work in a faith-inspired, values-based environment; extensive use of technology and in-person interactions to communicate and conference with the various stakeholders, the public, the local team and national leadership. Evening and weekend work are occasionally required. Applicants within the local area preferred, but others living outside of the area are encouraged to apply (no relocation assistance available). Valid driver’s license required. Interested applicants should submit a PDF cover letter and resume to: heartland@larcheks.org.

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.

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) 521-4955 for more information. EEO Chief development officer - Are you a Catholic professional with large-scale development experience? Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas is hiring a full-time chief development officer. This is an executive level position responsible for leading the agency’s fund-raising and marketing efforts. Learn more by visiting: www. catholiccharitiesks.org.

Financial representatives - Knights of Columbus has full-time openings in northeast Kansas and western Missouri for full-time financial representatives. Ideal for determined, disciplined, professional, high-expectation individual desiring to serve others. We work exclusively with the families of brother Knights and Catholic gentlemen who are eligible to join the Knights. We have established territories where agents devote their working day to the needs of the members in their assigned councils. Excellent, multi-tiered training and benefits are provided, allowing the successful field agent to earn a professional level income. This is a career opportunity that may be the right fit at the right time for you, or possibly for someone you know. For further information, contact John A. Mahon, general agent, at (785) 4088800 or email: john.mahon@kofc.org.

School cafeteria workers – Holy Spirit Catholic School, Overland Park, is seeking school cafeteria workers willing to learn all duties in assigned areas to include production, preparation, storage of food/supplies, accountability and safety/sanitation. Workers may perform sales transactions and must interact with students in a friendly, service-oriented manner. Compliance with sanitation and safety requirements is essential, and basic math skills are required. Shifts will be Monday – Friday and hours are flexible. Previous kitchen/ cafeteria experience preferred but not required. If interested, please contact Larry at: lgroce@hscatholic. org to schedule an interview.

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 fulltime 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.

JANUARY 21, 2O22 | THELEAVEN.ORG Join the Santa Marta team - Santa Marta is recognized as a premier senior living community in Olathe.

You will make a positive difference when you join the Santa Marta team. We are looking for part-time servers. Responsibilities include: serving meals to residents in a professional and hospitable manner in either independent living or health care neighborhoods; respectful interaction and communication with residents and coworkers is required; work with a team in a professional manner within dining and other departments; use proper food handling and cleaning techniques; setup and clean the dining rooms after each dining session.

Part-time servers are normally scheduled for three to five shifts per week (evening from 4 - 8 p.m. and weekend breakfast, lunch and dinner shifts). Pay is $10 - $11 hourly rate depending upon relevant experience. Parttime associates earn paid time off for hours worked.

Thank you for your interest in joining the Santa Marta team. Check out Santa Marta at: https:www.facebook. com/SantaMartaRetirement/.

Part-time stylists - 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 that specializes in dresses for mothers of the bride/groom and galas, is looking for part-time stylists.

Our 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.

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 - Double crypt at Resurrection Cemetery inside the Beautiful Queen of Heaven mausoleum and chapel; tier A-1, crypt 111. Beautiful finished wood exterior on lower level.

Today’s value is $16,000. Make offer. Call (816) 215-2000.

For sale - Single patio crypt with paid interment at Resurrection Cemetery. Patio B, tier E, Crypt 6. $4295 value discounted to $3000 or best offer. Call (913) 642-2191.

SERVICES Win disability benefits - Disabled and no longer able to work? Get help winning Social Security disability benefits.

Free consultation. Eight years’ experience. No fee unless you win. Call (785) 331-6452 or send an email to: montemace2000@yahoo.com or visit http://www.montemace disability.org.

Faith-based counseling to cope with life concerns - Kansas City area. Call Mary Vorsten, licensed clinical professional counselor, at (913) 909-2002.

Tutoring - for K - Adult. Sessions are fun and meaningful.

For more information please call Kathleen at (913) 206-2151.

Painting - Diamond Painting, (913) 648-4933, residential/ commercial, exterior/interior. Free estimate, affordable, decks. DiamondPaintKc.com, KCMO/Overland Park Metropolitan area.

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.

INTERIOR PAINTING Update your ceilings and walls and repair cracks. Serving Johnson County for more than 30 years. Call Jerry (913) 206-1144.

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@pathway prepkc.com.

Mike Hammer local moving - A full-service mover. Packing, pianos, rental truck load/unload, storage container load/unload and in-home moving. No job too small. Serving JoCo since 1987. St. Joseph, Shawnee, parishioner. Call Mike at (913) 927-4347 or send an email to: mike@mikehammer moving.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 as is never felt so good. Jon & Stacy Bichelmeyer (913) 599-5000.

Home care work wanted - Retired nurse with 30 years’ experience. Very reasonable rates, under the going rate. Kansas City metro area; will consider outside the area. References available. For more information, call Pam at (913) 602-1289. >> Classifieds continue on page 13

CALENDAR

JANUARY 21, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG

TACO DINNER AND BINGO St. Patrick Parish Center 1086 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kansas Jan. 22 at 6 p.m.

There will be a dinner of three tacos, rice, beans, dessert and lemonade or tea.

The cost is $10 for adults; $5 for children; and $30 for a family. For more information, call Fritz at (913) 515-0621.

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

A rosary will be followed by the business meeting and social time. Masks are strongly encouraged. If anyone knows of a member or family member of Daughters of Isabella in need of the circle’s prayers, call Diana Ortiz at (785) 554-4256.

CALLED TO LOVE AGAIN DIVORCE SUPPORT Church of the Ascension (St. Luke Room) 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park Jan. 29 from 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Do you have questions about the annulment process? What’s next after divorce? Save the date for a meeting on annulments with special guest, Father Gary Pennings. For more information, send an email to: calledtolove143@gmail.com.

SAVE THE DATE: IGNITE FOR LIFE & KANSAS MARCH AND RALLY FOR LIFE Topeka Performing Arts Center 214 S.E. 8th Ave., Topeka Jan. 25 at 8:30 a.m.

The event will begin at 9 a.m. There will be a Mass with the bishops of Kansas and archdiocesan priests at 10:30 a.m. At noon, there will be a march to the Capitol for the Kansans for Life rally. Visit the website at: archkck.org/prolife/activities/ks mass-marchforlife for detailed information.

TASTE OF KCK Resurrection School 425 N. 15th St., Kansas City, Kansas Jan. 29 from 6 - 9 p.m.

Join us for an evening of food, culture and community as we raise funds for the students of Resurrection School. There will be a social hour, drinks and live music, followed by a dinner of diverse ethnic foods, provided by home cooks and local restaurateurs. The event program includes student speakers, presentation of the honoree and a special student performance. To purchase tickets or make a donation, visit the website at: rcskck.org or call the school office at (913) 371-8101.

FINDING PEACE OF SOUL Christ’s Peace House of Prayer 22131 Meager Rd., Easton Feb. 4 - 6

The retreat will begin on Feb. 4 at 5:30 p.m. and end on Feb. 6 at 4:30 p.m. Reflect on how peace of soul can come through a life of prayer, personal reform and renewal. Living in this way confronts modern culture with the tough-mindedness and resilience of inner truth. There will be conferences, eucharistic adoration, Mass, confession, and time for pri-

vate prayer, reflection and walking. The suggested donation is $170/single or $250/couples for the cabins and courtyard rooms or $100 for single guest rooms (meals included). To attend, sign up online at: christspeace.com; send an email to: info@christspeace.com; or call (913) 773-8255.

IMMERSION WEEKEND FOR COUPLES Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish 5501 Monticello Rd., Shawnee Feb. 5 from 8 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Feb. 6 from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

The “Evermore in Love” (formerly “Living in Love”) married couples retreat (called Weekend Immersion) will be packed with insights and exercises that will help you experience the wonder of being more in love and to rediscover joy in your marriage. Register online at: bit.ly/ shoj-marriage-retreat using promo code: ArchKCK to get the weekend for $50.

COPING WITH LIFE ALONE Via Zoom Feb. 7 from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Beginning Experience of Kansas City is hosting a 10-week, online session to help divorced and widowed persons deal with grief and pain. For more information, visit the website at: beginningexperiencekc. org or call Maria at (913) 314-9844.

PANCAKE BREAKFAST St. Bede Parish 7344 Drought St., Kelly Feb. 13 from 7:30 a.m. - noon

There will be pancakes, sausage and eggs. Dine in or carryout available. The cost is a freewill donation.

SOUP-R-BOWL SUNDAY LUNCH St. Mary Parish 9208 Main St., St. Benedict Feb. 13 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

There will be homemade chili, chicken noodle soup, vegetable beef soup, relishes and pie. The cost is a freewill offering.

Dine in or carryout available.

‘THE OLD, THE SICK AND THOSE OF LITTLE UNDERSTANDING IN THE RULE OF ST. BENEDICT’ Conception Abbey Guest Center 37174 HWY VV, Conception, Missouri Feb. 11 - 13

Our study of “The Old, the Sick and Those of Little Understanding in the Rule of Benedict” provides us with a “true measure” of how any society, including contemporary societies, could and should act toward its vulnerable members. For more information and to register, go online to: conception.edu and click on “Guest Center” and then “View Upcoming Retreats.”

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

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

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

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>> Continued from page 12 Tired of being a landlord? I’ll buy it.

Call Mark Edmondson (913) 980-4905 Local parishioner.

CAREGIVING 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.

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.

Caregiver needed - Looking for caregiver for evenings and possible weekends. 75th and Metcalf. Call Pam at (913) 602-1289 for more information.

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

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

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

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

Popcorn ceiling texture removal Interior wall painting specialist.

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

Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.

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.

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

WANTED TO BUY 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.

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 - Cemetery plot in section 2 of Mount Calvary Cemetery. Call Frank at (404) 542-7860 or (678) 464-3023, or email: FCooper316@gmail.com.

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING The Leaven reaches approximately 50,000 subscribers.

Cost is $20 for the first five lines, $1.50 per line thereafter.

To purchase a Leaven classified ad, email: beth. blankenship@theleaven.org.

The appearance of advertising in The Leaven is not an endorsement by either the newspaper or the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. The Leaven attempts to screen advertisers and copy, but is not responsible for claims and representations made in advertisements.

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COLUMNISTS

DAILY READINGS THIRD WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Jan. 23 THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Neh 8: 2-4a, 5-6, 8-10 Ps 19: 8-10, 15 1 Cor 12: 12-30 Lk 1: 1-4; 4: 14-21 Jan. 24 Francis de Sales, bishop, doctor of the church 2 Sm 5: 1-7, 10 Ps 89: 21-22, 25-26 Mk 3: 22-30 Jan. 25 THE CONVERSION OF PAUL THE APOSTLE Acts 22: 3-16 Ps 117: 1bc, 2 Mk 16: 15-18 Jan. 26 Timothy and Titus, bishops 2 Tm 1: 1-8 Ps 96: 1-3, 7-8a, 10 Mk 4: 1-20 Jan. 27 Angela Merici, virgin 2 Sm 7: 18-19, 24-29 Ps 132: 1-5, 11-14 Mk 4: 21-25 Jan. 28 Thomas Aquinas, priest, doctor of the church 2 Sm 11: 1-4a, 5-10a, 13-17 Ps 51: 3-7, 10-11 Mk 4: 26-34 Jan. 29 Saturday 2 Sm 12: 1-7a, 10-17 Ps 51: 12-17 Mk 4: 35-41

Timothy c. 17-97 The son of a Greek Gentile father and Jewish mother, Timothy was converted to Christianity

by St. Paul, who called him “my true child in faith.” He became Paul’s missionary assistant and received two canonical letters from him. Based on Paul’s request in 1 Tm for him to stay in Ephesus, he is considered the first bishop of Ephesus. According to a fourth-century manuscript, he was martyred in 97 for opposing pagan celebrations. Timothy shares his feast with Titus, another of Paul’s companions.

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A friend in need is a friend indeed

ow incredible is the human mind. I was reminded of its power in a most unexpected way while proofreading an article in last week’s Leaven.

This story was from Catholic News Service about December’s devastating tornado damage in Kentucky.

As I read along, my mind suddenly halted as it came across the name of the pastor of Resurrection Church in Dawson Springs there, the parish featured in the story: Father David Kennedy.

“I think I know him,” I said to myself.

But how? Then, my mind dredged up a dusty, buried memory.

Back in the early 1970s, when I was a high school student at Savior of the World Seminary (now Savior Pastoral Center), there was a guy named David Kennedy the year ahead of me. And he was one of four seminarians at Savior from the Diocese of

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JANUARY 21, 2O22 | THELEAVEN.ORG

MARK MY WORDS

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

Owensboro, Kentucky.

I also recalled him as a teammate on our soccer squad.

Since my curiosity was now piqued, I hopped onto the Owensboro diocesan website and searched for any further information I could get on him. There was only an email address and a thumbnail photo of him. When I enlarged the picture, I shook my head as it really didn’t look like the guy I had

in mind.

Then, I started laughing at my ridiculousness: He looked different because it’s been almost 50 years since I last saw him! (“Unlike me,” it looked like he’d aged!)

I decided to send an email to this Father David Kennedy. The subject line read: Did you attend Savior of the World High School Seminary? I then explained who I was and how I thought I might know him. I pressed send and off the message went.

The very next evening, I got a return email and, holy cow, it was the David Kennedy I knew from our

Savior days! He’d kept up on news of Savior alumni as he knew that Father Bob Everard and Father Patric Riley had both died.

He went on to describe that his diocese bore the brunt of the tornadoes. Of the approximately 75 people killed, miraculously none of them were Catholics. However, his parish of Resurrection, one of three churches that he’s the pastor of, was destroyed.

Although my heart was already aching for those whose lives were upended by the tornadoes, it took on a special significance as I now knew someone personally affected by it.

This — as well as this past June when I gathered in Branson, Missouri, with 10 classmates from Rome as we celebrated our 40th anniversaries of ordination — reminded me of what tremendous treasure friendships are. Although we may not have the opportunity to get together

often in person, these ties of shared experiences from “once upon a time” never become completely unraveled.

It is an astonishing gift to be able to pick up things again as if no time at all has passed.

It was especially humbling when Father Kennedy wrote: “I have always kept you guys from Kansas in my prayers.” Well, you can bet that I’ve now added him to mine.

I know that some parishes have already taken up a collection for the tornado victims. If you’ve not had the opportunity to contribute and would like to do so, please consider helping my friend to rebuild. Checks can be made out to Resurrection Church and sent directly to Father Kennedy at Immaculate Conception Church, 112 S. Day St., Earlington, KY 42410.

How true is the quote that says: “Because of friends, we laugh a little harder, cry a little less and smile a lot more.”

In Jesus, God restores the unity of humanity

he biblical story of the Tower of Babel begins with the surprising detail that at one time the whole world shared the same language with the same words! This is unimaginable since we know only the reality of different languages across cultures and nations.

Language experts estimate there are thousands of languages across the world today.

People of the same country are divided further into smaller groups with their own distinct languages.

The author of the Book of Genesis then recounts how division entered the world as

,

JEM SULLIVAN Sullivan is a professor at The Catholic University of America.

the people began to turn away from God and rely on themselves instead. To reach the heavens they decided to build a city and tower soaring into

the sky. They wanted to make a name for themselves with their human achievement.

The problem was not their hard work or even the tower itself, but their desire to reach the heavens by their own power, apart from God. The sinfulness of human pride and self-sufficiency became a source of weakness, not strength.

God saw their intentions and confused

their language and scattered them across the earth. No human achievement, however impressive, allows humanity to attain the heavens. To reach God we need the grace of God. The biblical story does not end there. For God desires to bring creation back to the original unity it was created for. Unity, not division, is the promise God desires to fulfill from the beginning.

In the Gospel, Jesus enters the synagogue of Nazareth, his hometown. There, he reveals the truth of his divine mission to unite all in his person.

Before the assembly, Jesus reads aloud from

the prophet Isaiah of God’s rich promises to bring good tidings to the poor, liberty to captives, sight to the blind, freedom for the oppressed, and a year of renewed blessings from God. Then Jesus speaks astounding words when he says, “Today this Scripture passage is fulfilled in your hearing.”

In Jesus, God restores the unity of humanity torn apart by many bitter and hateful divisions born of pride, rejection of God and self-sufficiency. In the power of the Holy Spirit, received at baptism, we turn humbly to God, the source of all unity, to pray, “Speak to me, Lord.”

Denying dignity of work is an ‘injustice,’ pope says VATICAN CITY (CNS) — St. Joseph’s work as a humble carpenter serves as an example of the dignity of hard work that today is often denied to those in need, Pope Francis said.

“Many young people, many fathers and mothers experience the ordeal of not having a job that allows them to live peacefully; they just live day by day. And how often the search for work becomes so desperate that it drives them to the point of losing

all hope and the desire to live,” the pope said Jan. 12 during his weekly general audience.

The value of hard work, he added, is also exploited in today’s world where many people, including undocumented workers, are forced to do grueling tasks for unfair wages, and children, “who should be playing,” instead are “forced to work like an adult. They are our brothers and sisters, those who earn their living this way, with jobs that do

not recognize their dignity. Let us think about this; this is happening today in the world!” he said.

Pope Francis was continuing his series of audience talks about St. Joseph, reflecting on his work as a carpenter. The work of a carpenter or woodworker at that time, the pope explained, involved not only crafting tools or furniture but also building houses. From an economic point of view, “it did not ensure great earnings.”

COLUMNISTS

JANUARY 21, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG

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Mother’s example renews appreciation of Catholic education

am writing this article from the basement of my childhood home in Chicago.

Just over one week ago, on Jan. 2, my sister Regina informed me that my 78-year-old mom was being taken to the hospital. She had been feeling very ill and had little to no energy. My mom has suffered with COPD for several years and struggles to breathe.

After a short time in the hospital, we heard the news we had been dreading: She had COVID. On top of that, she had pneumonia. From everything we had heard during the pandemic, along with her already compromised health, it was hard not to think she would die.

FROM THE SUPER

VINCE CASCONE Vince Cascone is the superintendent of archdiocesan schools.

I headed to Chicago on what seemed to be a journey to say goodbye.

Over the next week, I spent time with my brothers, sister and dad.

We seemed to shift from expecting the worst, to

hoping for the best, to preparing for her return home. We saw a miracle play out over the course of that week.

She came home on Jan. 9. So many people were praying for my mom who spent so many previous days and years praying rosary after rosary for them and others.

There truly is power in the name of Jesus.

This last week has been a journey of reflection and prayer for me. I have been reflecting a great deal on my role as a parent and on the role of my parents in my life. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states: “Parents have the first responsibility for the education of their children. They bear witness to this responsibility first by creating a home where tenderness, forgiveness, respect, fidelity and service are the rule. The home is well suited for education in the virtues. This requires an apprenticeship in selfdenial, sound judgment and self-mastery — the preconditions of all true

freedom. Parents should teach their children to subordinate the ‘material and instinctual dimensions to interior and spiritual ones.’

Parents have a grave responsibility to give good example to their children. By knowing how to acknowledge their own failings to their children, parents will be better able to guide and correct them (No. 2223).

Parents are, of course, the primary educators of their children.

The Catholic school serves as a support to the parents in their most important responsibility in raising their children in the faith.

That being said, the Second Vatican Council’s Declaration on Education states: “The

council also reminds Catholic parents of the duty of entrusting their children to Catholic schools wherever and whenever it is possible and of supporting these schools to the best of their ability and of cooperating with them for the education of their children.”

The last two weeks have given me a renewed appreciation for my parents and all they have done for me. I am very grateful for the Catholic education they provided me.

I encourage you to support the church’s ministry of Catholic education within your family and with those in your community.

LOCAL NEWS

JANUARY 21, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG

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Business teams help make the impossible possible

his week, Kurt Rall, who is president of the Our Lady of Unity School Business Team in Kansas City, Kansas, takes Leaven readers inside his ministry.

Q.

What is your title and where do you minister?

A.

I am president of Our Lady of Unity ( O L U ) School Business Team in Kansas C i t y , Kansas.

OLU is the sister parish of my home parish of St. Michael the Archangel in Leawood.

Q.

Please describe what you do in your role with your ministry.

A.

My role is to help guide and coordinate efforts with a team of energetic volunteers and school personnel to assist the OLU school business team. The team helps make it possible to families who want their children to get a Catholic education to send them to OLU. Fundraising is a huge part of that, either by asking folks to help directly or by hosting a school fundraiser, like “Hog and Grog,” etc.

Q.

How would you describe how that particular ministry fits into the larger mission of the Catholic Church?

A.

I believe we all are called to use our gifts and talents to serve others. To me, it’s more than a Catholic mission. We all have an obligation to help our fellow man and this is just one way we can do it.

Q.

Is the work you do for your ministry what you set out to do in life?

A. I am in medical sales. My back-

ground is in communicating what is important, such as with families who desire a Catholic education and to have the ability to do so. I believe that everyone has a calling in life. My calling is to be a connector — whether in life, business or faith.

Q.

If not, what road led you to this place?

A. I didn’t look for this opportunity.

I was approached and when I toured the school and met the students, I saw the need and the statistics. I knew I needed to get involved and volunteer. Approxi-

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

Kurt Rall, president of the Our Lady of Unity School Business Team in Kansas City, Kansas, talks with students at the school. The business team works out solutions to make it possible for families to send their children to Our Lady of Unity School. mately 99% of families qualify for some type of financial assistance, while 88% of students are getting a free or reduced lunch.

Q.

Did you collect some skills from other jobs along the way that have proved surprisingly applicable? If so, explain.

A.

It’s not really a surprise. Yet, my professional life is relationship-based and connecting people, skills and resources. These skills have been helpful in my role with the OLU business team.

In particular, I’ve made many friends in my parish and so I began by asking friends to help. Once I shared some of the general facts about OLU, most were more than willing to assist.

Q.

What would the average Catholic be most surprised to learn about your job?

A.

The need at many of the archdiocesan schools is broad and diverse.

It was not until I visited OLU in the fall of 2019 that I was made aware of the opportunity to provide input and support.

Getting a Catholic education is something so many families want, but can’t necessarily achieve. But, with financial assistance available from the Catholic Education Foundation (CEF) and from the business teams established by the archdiocese, it’s possible. When you

think about it, it’s a good value for the money spent.

Q.

Who does your ministry primarily serve?

A.

Our ministry serves the families, students and staff of Our Lady of Unity School in Kansas City, Kansas.

Q.

What do you wish everybody knew about your ministry?

A.

That many families desire a Catholic education but may not have the resources. This ministry is helping to make an impact on this need. I wish everybody could visit and meet the students at OLU. They are grateful for the education and their teachers.

Q.

Why does the world need more of what you’re offering, do you think, especially right now?

A.

Because of COVID, there’s an underlying tone of anxiety and angst among people right now, as well as a lot of judgment. Being able to redirect that mood into an opportunity to do good is such a blessing. You can never do enough good.

Q.

What have you learned about people in this job?

A.

When you ask, many fellow

Catholics are willing and able to support the need. Quite simply, if you ask them to help financially, most people will say yes. And a yes is always a win.

Even if an individual can’t help when you first ask, you’ve planted the seed for tomorrow.

Q.

What have you learned about yourself ?

A.

Working with volunteers is rewarding and can be challenging all at the same time. Sometimes, you can overstep what is needed and lose track of the actual mission. Part of my job is to keep the team focused on the purpose of our school business team.

Q.

Has it changed the way you view your identity as a Catholic, and if so, how?

A.

I actually converted to Catholicism, so I was brought up in the Christian framework to give back to others.

My wife and I value the Catholic education we were able to provide our children and felt that others should have a similar opportunity.

Kurt Rall is a member of St. Michael the Archangel in Leawood. He and his wife Jane have four children and one fabulous daughter-in-law. Kurt has worked in medical sales for more than 25 years.

Crossword solution

SALES Advertising Account Manager Sell ad space for Church bulletins.

Salary, expenses, commission PLUS benefits.

Reply: Recruiting@jspaluch.com www.jspaluch.com

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