02 19 21 Vol. 42 No. 27

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 42, NO. 27 | FEBRUARY 19, 2021

PHOTO BY ROXIE SCHMITZ

Dan and Kristin Tangeman, members of St. Mary Parish in St. Benedict, set out eucharistic miracles posters they made in pews vacated for social distancing. They took the images from a website created

by Blessed Carlo Acutis to catechize other parishioners about the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist.

Couple seeds unused pews with eucharistic miracles

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — The August 2019 Pew Research Center report about a survey of Catholic belief in the Eucharist hit the Catholic Church like a bombshell.

Although the church has always taught that Jesus is present in the Eucharist, the source and summit of the Christian life, nearly seven-in-ten Catholics surveyed said that the consecrated bread and wine at Mass are only symbols of the body and blood of Jesus — that the Savior is not really present.

The echo of that bombshell is still reverberating through our churches, emptier now because of social distancing requirements and fear of the COVID-19 virus.

Rather than join the hand-wringers, however, Dan and Kristin Tangeman, a

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By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

“ I SAW AN ARTICLE ABOUT CARLO ACUTIS AND I THOUGHT, ‘EUCHARISTIC MIRACLES’ — I NEVER EVEN HEARD ABOUT SUCH THINGS. DAN TANGEMAN PARISHIONER OF ST. MARY PARISH, ST. BENEDICT farm couple and members of St. Mary Parish in St. Benedict, launched a family project at their own expense to cultivate what Pope John Paul II called “eucharistic amazement.”

The Tangemans have created posters featuring eucharistic miracles and have

placed them in the pews of their church that have been roped off due to pandemic spacing requirements.

They didn’t have to do much research.

The Tangemans found everything they needed on a website created by Italian teenager Carlo Acutis, who died from leukemia in 2006. He was beatified on Oct. 10, 2020, a step toward sainthood.

The Tangemans hope that worshipers will read the posters surrounding them and learn, probably for the first time, about eucharistic miracles that have occurred for centuries all over the world.

“We felt that a lot of [Catholic] kids don’t grasp the importance, and a lot of adults don’t grasp the importance, of the Eucharist,” said Kristin.

It’s precisely the kind of evangelization effort talked about at the Enflame convocation Dan and Kristin attended in October 2019 as parish delegates.

There wasn’t any one thing that led

Want to learn more?

Would you like to visit Blessed Carlo Acutis’ eucharistic miracle website? Go to the website at: www. miracolieucaristici.org. A movie is being made about him and is scheduled for release in June.

the Tangemans to produce the eucharistic miracles posters. Rather, many things came together until critical mass was achieved and the idea exploded forth.

One element was an article Dan read about eucharistic miracles about five years ago in the National Catholic Register, as one of their four children was preparing to make her first Communion.

“I saw an article about Carlo Acutis,” he said, “and I thought, ‘eucharistic mir>> See “I MADE” on page 4

Ready to rock

Student journalists

Registration opens soon for this year’s youth camps at Prairie Star Ranch in Williamsburg.

The Leaven celebrates Catholic Press Month by interviewing some of those just learning their trade.

Page 3

Pages 8-9

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ARCHBISHOP

FEBRUARY 19, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

This Lent, depend upon yourself less, and upon God more

n early February, FOCUS (Fellowship of Catholic University Students) held its SEEK conference.

Like every other major gathering this year because of the COVID virus, the conference format was quite different. Usually, SEEK is held at a major convention center with FOCUS missionaries and college students gathering from all over the country.

For SEEK21, more than 25,000 young adults gathered in living rooms, campus centers and parishes to participate through the wonders of technology in an event that always features some of the most gifted and inspirational Catholic speakers.

Many participated entirely virtually from their home or dorm room. There were, however, many others who attended at several satellite locations for hybrid experiences of SEEK, utilizing large screens to view the keynote speakers as well as benefiting from in-person presentations, eucharistic adoration, the sacrament of reconciliation and Masses at campus ministry centers or parishes.

On Thursday evening, Feb. 4, the first night of SEEK, I was at Benedictine College joining with almost 200 BC students participating in the opening night of this amazing event.

The featured inperson speaker was Dr. Edward (Ted) Sri. Benedictine College is the birthplace of FOCUS.

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN In 1997, the original FOCUS missionaries (recent college graduates) began their evangelizing efforts in Atchison, to help college students develop or deepen their relationship with Jesus and fall in love with his bride, the church.

The first FOCUS conference, a forerunner to what became SEEK, occurred at Lake Perry with 25 student participants.

Dr. Sri, a faculty member at BC at the time, was instrumental in bringing FOCUS to Benedictine. He now serves as the director of formation for FOCUS missionaries.

Dr. Sri gave a very inspiring and insightful presentation. At one point, he mentioned the temptation to think that we can achieve sanctity by human effort and willpower.

Dr. Sri referred to St. Thérèse of Lisieux, the Little Flower, who counseled a young novice, frustrated by her lack of progress in her pursuit of holiness, not to strive to ascend the

mountain of sanctity by her own determination and willpower.

Instead, St. Thérèse advised the young nun to allow Jesus to encounter her in her own lowliness and poverty.

The day before the SEEK conference, we had a virtual gathering of the priests of the archdiocese. The purpose of our meeting was to support and encourage each other as we strive to be good shepherds for our people through this time of enormous challenges.

A couple of our priests gave both inspiring and practical presentations on keeping ourselves spiritually healthy, even during a pandemic.

One of our presenters was experienced in the 12-step methodology originally developed by Alcoholics Anonymous to help individuals break free from addiction and gain physical, emotional and spiritual health. He acknowledged how, early in his priesthood, he had attempted to win the admiration of others by his zeal, competency and skill.

In so doing, he placed enormous pressure on himself by

CNS SCREENSHOT/COURTESY THE FLORIDA CATHOLIC

Edward Sri, a founding leader of the Fellowship of Catholic University Students, speaks in a Feb. 5 keynote during the SEEK21 conference. Over 26,000 participants globally gathered for the virtual conference sponsored by FOCUS Feb. 4-7. striving for perfection by relying on his own ingenuity, determination, abilities and power.

He set himself up for persistent feelings of inadequacy and left himself vulnerable to numb himself and seek consolation from his perceived failures by turning to addictive behaviors.

From his own painful experience, he counseled us to approach God through our weakness, rather than trying to impress Our Lord with our strength.

As we begin the Lenten season, I encourage us to keep in mind this wisdom to approach God by leading with our poverty and weakness. Lent is a time to increase our prayer and ascetical practices, such as fasting from food, drink and forms of entertainment.

These practices are important and necessary for spiritual growth. We create more space for God by freeing ourselves from activities that tempt us to rely upon them for

comfort and consolation, instead of opening our hearts to God. With the entire church united in penitential practices, this is a time when we find the support to turn our hearts to God more and to material consolations less.

However, we also have to be careful not to fall into the illusion that we can develop virtue and ascend to holiness by our own power and determination. We must begin Lent with the realization that there is very little we can accomplish on our own but that, with God, all things become possible.

Lent summons us to depend on ourselves less and upon God more. We will be amazed what God can accomplish if we surrender our poverty to him.

Like the boy in the Gospel with a couple of fish and few loaves of bread, Our Lord can take the little we are able to offer and make it sufficient — not only to satisfy our own hunger but the hungers of

many more.

Consider how in 1997 FOCUS reached 25 college students with its first conference and now, not even 25 years later and in the midst of a pandemic, they were able to touch the hearts of more than 25,000.

According to my math, that is a return of a thousandfold.

An important way that we approach Our Lord with our weakness is through the sacrament of penance/reconciliation. In order to make a good confession, there are two things necessary on our part: 1) faith in God’s merciful and unconditional love; and 2) the humility to acknowledge our poverty, our sins.

When we approach God through this sacrament, we are leading with our weakness and, in so doing, allowing the power of God’s mercy to enter into our hearts.

During this Lent, let us approach God with humility and permit him to infuse the power of his transforming love into our souls.

Crossword solution

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LOCAL NEWS

FEBRUARY 19, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

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Registration opens soon for archdiocesan summer camps

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Your kids can camp with confidence and fun at archdiocesan summer camps this year, said Deacon Dana Nearmyer, co-director of the camps.

The COVID-19 pandemic did not shut down Camp Kateri Tekakwitha sessions at Williamsburg last summer because the operators and counselors scrambled to successfully adapt to the situation.

“We learned a lot last summer,” said Deacon Nearmyer. “We had no transmission of COVID and we had a really fun time.”

If you hadn’t already thought about sending your child (or grandchild) to camp, now’s the time. Camp registration online runs March 1-3 by age group.

To register and get information about the camps, go to: archkck.org/ camp/tekakwitha. At the top of the page there is a series of words: “Camp Tekakwitha,” “About+,” “Camps+,” “Parents+” and “Register.” Click on these words for drop-down menus leading to information on a number of topics.

Last year, because of the pandemic, the camp offered day camps for younger campers for the first time, and extended stays in tents for high school campers.

This summer, there will be both day camps and overnight camps for fifthand sixth-grade campers. However, there will be no extended tent camping for high school campers. Instead, the older campers are going back to the bunkhouses.

“This year, we’re following the American Camping Association field guide for COVID,” said Deacon Nearmyer. “We’re installing screens for the sleeping arrangements and installing ionizers to mitigate airborne transmission of viruses in all our buildings.”

Of course, the usual precautions of wearing masks, washing or sanitizing hands, and keeping social distance apply this year, too.

The camp activities, appropriate for age and grade, have not changed.

“We have ropes activities — high ropes, challenge course and the climbing tower,” said Deacon Nearmyer. “[We have] horse riding, mountain boards, mountain bikes, swimming, water slides and archery. And many powerful faith activities such as prayer and Bible studies alternating during all the other experiences.”

Financial scholarships are available to campers who are in need and would not be able to go to camp without assistance. A scholarship application must be filled out and signed by the applicant and his or her pastor or youth minister, along with specific financial information.

To apply for a general camp scholarship and for information, go to: arch kck.org/camp/safety/scholarships.

Camping scholarships for rural youth are available as well. Information is on the same webpage.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Summer camps at Prairie Star Ranch in Williamsburg will return this year. Last year, wearing masks and other safety protocols led to successful camps with no COVID transmissions.

Camp session dates and costs Camp Kateri Tekakwitha Registration March 1, 2, 3

Senior high camps Campers entering 9th-12th grades in the fall. Online registration begins March 1 at 9 a.m.

• High School Max (overnight), $440, June 21-26 • High School Xtreme (overnight), $510, July 23-31 Junior high camps Campers entering 7th and 8th grades in the fall. Online registration begins March 2 at 9 a.m.

• Junior high session 1 (day camp), $360, June 8-10 • Junior high session 2 (overnight), $435, June 11-16 • Junior high session 3 (overnight), $435, July 12-17 Kateri Camps Campers entering 5th and 6th grade in the fall. Online registration begins March 3, at 9 a.m.

• Kateri session 1 (day camp), $240, June 6-7 • Kateri session 2 (overnight), $280, June 28-30 •Kateri session 3 (overnight), $280, July 19-21

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

All the campers’ favorite activities — like the high ropes, shown here in this 2019 file photo — will be available to campers this year and new safety measures will be in effect.

“Faith, fun and friends are the three things we really concentrate on, helping people propel their faith in deep and amazing ways while having a blast and making new friends,” said Deacon Nearmyer. “[Former] campers have told us

that camp has been a very stabilizing and enriching part of their faith journey,” he added, “supplementing what the family has already built — a strong connection to the Catholic Church. . . .

We feel really good about helping families build a strong Catholic culture.”

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) 721-5276; or e-mail at: sub@theleaven.com. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109.

For change of address, provide old and new address and parish. Subscriptions $21/year. Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org

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

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

Family Camps Registration begins March 1, by email to: camptekreg@gmail. com. Include each camper’s name and date of birth. The cost is $140 for each camper two years old and older. No cost to children younger than 2.

• Family Camp, June 18-20 • Family Camp: Special Needs, July 9-11

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org

Advertising Coordinator Beth Blankenship beth.blankenship@theleaven.org

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LOCAL NEWS

FEBRUARY 19, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

‘I made sure my kids read about several’ >> Continued from page 1

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

Michelle Gavin, principal of Holy Trinity School in Paola, works with second-grader Penelope Secrest on an art project. Schools like Holy Trinity benefited from a two-hour virtual event, “School Budgeting During Pandemic Times,” organized by Michael and Patty Morrissey, co-managers of the archdiocesan School Advancement Program.

Educators acquire tools for budget management

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — When it comes to dealing with the COVID19 pandemic, Catholic schools can borrow a bit of wisdom from professional baseball great Yogi Berra, who famously uttered, “It ain’t over till it’s over.”

No, the pandemic isn’t over. For almost a year, Catholic schools — like all other institutions — have had to deal with the unexpected challenges created by the virus.

One of those challenges was the pressure the pandemic placed on Catholic schools’ budgets. Unlike public schools, which rely on taxes, Catholic schools depend on parish subsidies, tuition payments from parents, gifts, donations and fundraising. All those took a hit to one extent or another.

In response, the School Advancement Program of the archdiocesan school office organized and conducted a two-hour virtual event, “School Budgeting During Pandemic Times,” yet another “Train the Trainer” session organized by Michael and Patty Morrissey, co-managers of the School Advancement Program.

The virtual event, held on Jan. 28, was attended by approximately 54 individuals representing some 32 schools and other entities. The participants included pastors, high school presidents, principals, school board members, enrollment managers and others.

Seven presenters covered six topics, which included budgeting philosophy, budget correlation and best practices, school budget importance, enrollment management (retention and recruiting), format and specific line items, and stakeholder deliverables.

“There will be some tough decisions I think that you have to make in the future,” said Vince Cascone, superintendent of archdiocesan schools, in his welcoming remarks. “But I’ll say this experience with COVID-19 has shown us that those schools and

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By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

COVID AND PANDEMIC TIMES PUT A DIFFERENT LENS ON EVERYTHING, BUT I THINK THE PRINCIPLES THEY BROUGHT UP COULD BE USEFUL ANY YEAR. LIZ MINKS PRINCIPAL OF ST. ANN SCHOOL, PRAIRIE VILLAGE parishes that have had solid budget processes in place were better able to address the needs and challenges that they were faced with, and some that maybe didn’t have some of those in place struggled even more so.”

Participants found the presentation contained information beneficial for budgeting at any time — not just during a pandemic.

“Of course, COVID and pandemic times put a different lens on everything, but I think the principles they brought up could be useful any year,” said Liz Minks, principal of St. Ann School in Prairie Village.

Her school felt the pandemic impact in different ways.

“We had a higher interest this year from [families] that might not typically be interested [in Catholic education] because we [had instruction] in person,” Minks said. “We acquired several students from the public schools and ended up having to put a cap on [their enrollment] to help with social distancing.”

“But, also, without having Mass in person, that affected the overall amount of contributions we usually get,” she continued. “But at the same time, I’m really grateful we received more than we thought we would through the Sunday collection plate. And, we’ve had such an amazing response to our

fundraisers virtually. I’m shocked how people were still able to provide during these times, and I’m really grateful to this community. I know that’s not the case everywhere.”

A pandemic imposes some unique pressures on a school budget, said Bill Schafer, St. Ann Parish and School business manager.

“You might have to provide for more cleaning costs . . . maybe put caps on classroom sizes,” said Schafer. “You might have some unique things you have to consider. We made quite an investment in the facility to make things as safe as we possibly could — water bottle fillers, touchless faucets in bathrooms, air purifications in all our HVAC units.”

It was above and beyond what they had originally budgeted and there was a lot of uncertainty. But the influx of students from the public schools helped enrollment, because they paid the full nonparish enrollment rate.

“It gave us the opportunity to show them what a Catholic education is like,” he said. “We could do a little bit of evangelization in the process. As far as I know, the families have been pretty happy. I haven’t heard of any yet that are not coming back in the fall.”

Andy Tylicki, president of St. James Academy in Lenexa, found something useful in all the presentations. Like other school administrators, any information that will help his school be a better steward of money and resources, and more effectively manage enrollment, is very beneficial.

“What I think is important [for parishioners] to understand is that our parishes and schools are really great stewards of their money they give to us,” said Tylicki. “I just know what I deal with on a daily basis — that there can be struggles for families who want to remain in our schools.”

“We work to the nth degree to make sure they can stay. I know all of our schools do that,” he concluded. “We’re all working to make sure we take good care of our families and our budgets, and to be a part of that process as leaders of our schools.”

acles’ — I never even heard about such things. Why in the world don’t we ever hear about such things?’ So, I made sure my kids read about several eucharistic miracles. They need to know about these things.”

This past Halloween the Tangemans put homemade holy cards featuring Carlos Acutis in the bags of candy they passed out as treats.

A second newspaper article also played a big part: It was about a parish on the East Coast putting posters in the empty pews during the lockdown period when there were no public Masses.

“We thought, ‘Oh, gosh, we can do this,’” said Kristin.

And so, using Blessed Carlo Acutis’ website, they downloaded articles about eucharistic miracles and mounted them on cardboard. They were helped

by Roxie Schmitz, a member of Sacred Heart Parish in Baileyville. She’s the mother of Father Quentin Schmitz, pastor of St. Gregory Parish in Marysville.

Since Father Reginald Saldanha is pastor of both St. Mary and Sacred Heart, it was natural that the Tangemans and Schmitz approach him and ask that the posters be placed at both locations.

He enthusiastically agreed and promoted the project from the pulpit.

“They came to me and told me that they would like to print these posters and put them in the church for everyone to read,” said Father Saldanha. “I thought it was a brilliant idea.

“Nowadays, people cannot sing or say their prayers with the masks on, but they can read the posters and come to learn more about the Eucharist. They have some wonderful stories I have not read before.”

The three-by-two-foot posters were placed in the pews during Advent, removed for Christmas and then returned after the solemnity of Epiphany.

“My intention was — because of the COVID, people are not coming to the church and are missing the Eucharist — this could help to re-evangelize and bring people back to the church for the Eucharist once things become normal,” said Father Saldanha.

Parishioners have responded well to the posters, he said. After Mass, they linger so they can read the posters.

Schmitz noticed some religious education teachers take their classes to the posters.

Dan and Kirstin don’t know how long the posters will stay up at their parish, but they hope other parishes and Catholic schools can use them.

“My hope is, once we people return, we won’t have so many posters in the pews,” said Dan Tangeman. “We’d like to spread them out to as many parishes as we can reach.”

LOCAL NEWS

FEBRUARY 19, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

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St. James Academy educator recognized as teacher of the year

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

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ENEXA — A veteran teacher with a “dogged work ethic” and the “ability to connect with students heart-to-heart” received a Teacher of the Year award from the Kansas Association of Independent and Religious Schools on Jan. 28.

Katie Walters from St. James Academy in Lenexa received the award from Vince Cascone, superintendent of archdiocesan schools, during a brief ceremony in the school’s media center.

The academy’s senior class was there to witness the ceremony in person, while other classes, faculty and staff viewed it over the school’s in-building video system.

“It was most certainly a surprise,” said Walters. “I am humbled to be nominated for this award and to be on staff with my colleagues, who I think the world of. A lot of the credit is due to the teams I work on and the students in the classroom.”

“The receptivity of my students is encouraging,” she added. “I’m encouraged as well, especially this year, when we are working so hard to move forward safely for the sake of the other . . . and I owe a lot of credit to my husband, the way he encourages me and gives me feedback.”

Walters has been a theology teacher for the past 11 years and director of the academy’s community/house system for the past five years.

She was one of four teachers in Kansas — and the only one in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas — to receive the annual KAIRS award.

Founded in 1970, KAIRS represents

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Katie Walters, a theology teacher and director of St. James Academy’s community/house system, leads a sophomore retreat at the school on Feb. 12.

Walters received a Teacher of the Year award from the Kansas Association of Independent and Religious Schools on Jan. 28. more than 132 Catholic, Lutheran, Independent, Christian and Seventh-day Adventist schools educating approximately 35,000 students in Kansas.

Walters was nominated last year

by Shane Rapp, principal of St. James Academy. In his letter of recommendation, Rapp praised her ability to connect with students and her excellent

work ethic. He also noted her meticulously planned and ever-engaging lesson plans, mentorship of other staff members, attention to detail and willingness to put relationships first.

Furthermore, he said Walters “has taken her impact to a whole new level” through her leadership of healing retreats, co-leadership of a class for

school staff on Ananias Training from the Catherine of Siena Institute and adaptation of the academy’s community/ house system in response to the pandemic.

Walter’s husband Chris also teaches theology at the academy. They have four children between the ages of 1 and 6.

Fight for tax credit bill to help low-income students moves to Kansas House

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

T PHOTO BY STEVE JOHNSON

Plans have been underway for months for the Benedictine College Scholarship Ball, now online for the first time. Above, Benedictine College president Stephen D. Minnis works on a presentation for the virtual event before snow and freezing temperatures set in. This year, friends and alumni from around the country can log in and watch together at 7 p.m. on Feb. 27. There is no cost to register. Go to: www.benedictine.edu/give/scholarship-ball/ index to register and learn more about Benedictine College.

Father John Reynolds dies Father John Reynolds, 58, died on Feb. 16 after a long illness. He most recently resided at the Brookdale facility in Shawnee. His last assignment was as sacramental assistant in residence at St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, in 2019.

Father Reynolds was born on June 9, 1962, and was ordained to the priesthood for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in

Kansas on June 2, 1990.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated for Father Reynolds at 10:30 a.m. on Feb. 22 at Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa. Additional information, including the time of a prayer service before the funeral, will be available later online at: www. theleaven.org or on The Leaven’s Facebook page. A full obituary will be published in the next issue of The Leaven.

OPEKA — A bill that would expand a tax credit program for donations to scholarships for low-income students passed the Kansas Senate on Feb. 11.

The vote was 23 to 14 for SB 61, which would expand the current Kansas Tax Credit for Low Income Student Scholarship Program act, which has been in effect since 2015.

Identical legislation, HB 2068, is before the Kansas House.

Money for the program comes from private businesses, which receive tax credits for donating funds to scholarship-granting organizations like the Catholic Education Foundation of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.

Currently, students from low-income families are eligible to participate in the program if they are in the free lunch program and live within the boundaries of one of the 100 lowest-performing public schools in the state.

The bill would expand eligibility to those receiving free and reduced-cost lunches and remove the requirement that the family reside within the boundaries of one of the 100 lowest-performing schools.

“I think it was an encouraging vote, but we’re pretty certain the governor will

How to help For your legislator’s contact information, go online to: openstates.org.

Under “Find Your Legislators,” enter your street address, including city and state, into the search box. When your legislator appears in the search results, click on the legislator’s name for his or her email, phone and mailing address.

veto this,” said Chuck Weber, executive director of the Kansas Catholic Conference. “She is not a friend of the lowincome tax credit scholarship program.”

The Kansas Senate failed to give SB 61 a veto-proof margin of 27 votes.

“Where we go next with this is that it’s going to go to the House,” said Weber. “We’re confident it will pass but we don’t know the level of support there yet. We’ll have to see how the votes come out. It’s very much an issue that’s in play.

“There’s strong support for school choice and options particularly for low-income families looking for educational alternatives than there has been in the last 15 years,” he said.

Weber urged Catholics to contact their representatives and urge them to vote for the legislation.

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COMMENTARY

FEBRUARY 19, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

News service celebrates anniversary with its top newsmaker

By Greg Erlandson Catholic News Service

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CNS PHOTO/VATICAN MEDIA

Pope Francis meets with members of the Catholic News Service Rome bureau at the Domus Sanctae Marthae at the Vatican on Feb. 1. The special audience was in recognition of the 100th anniversary of CNS. From left are staffers Carol Glatz, correspondent; Cindy Wooden, bureau chief; Robert Duncan, multimedia journalist (back to camera); Junno Arocho Esteves, correspondent; Joanna Kohorst, administrative assistant; and Paul Haring, senior photographer.

“

t’s not often you get the pope to celebrate your birthday, even if it’s your 100th.

Catholic News Service turned 100 in the midst of the pandemic, so it took us a little while to get our party hats on. Recently, Pope Francis met with our Rome bureau to acknowledge the anniversary while talking about the importance of our work and our service to the church.

“In an age when news can be easily manipulated and misinformation spread, you seek to make the truth known in a way that is, in the words of your motto, ‘fair, faithful and informed,’” he told our staff.

It was a rare encounter between a U.S. Catholic news organization and our prime newsmaker. The pope’s kind words paid tribute not just to the current employees of Catholic News Service, but to the hundreds of journalists and editors who have worked here over the decades.

Catholic News Service was founded in the shadow of World War I and the Spanish flu pandemic. Yet it was a time of great hope, as the church was experiencing a rapid growth of Catholic periodicals and diocesan newspapers. From its founding, CNS aimed to provide this growing market with national and

“ IN AN AGE WHEN NEWS CAN BE EASILY MANIPULATED AND MISINFORMATION SPREAD, YOU SEEK TO MAKE THE TRUTH KNOWN IN A WAY THAT IS, IN THE WORDS OF YOUR MOTTO, ‘FAIR, FAITHFUL AND INFORMED.’ POPE FRANCIS international news of interest to Catholics.

In turn, Catholic media provided the church with its own voice as it resisted anti-immigrant and anti-Catholic forces at home and abroad

while also speaking up for the rights of labor and the poor and providing formation in the faith.

Over the decades, CNS evolved as new technologies developed,

COPYRIGHT © BY CLIFF LEITCH, THE CHRISTIAN BIBLE REFERENCE SITE, WWW.CHRISTIANBIBLEREFERENCE.ORG. USED BY PERMISSION

adding functions such as photo and video services, opening a Rome bureau, and assuming responsibility for movie, television and now video game reviews. It also began an adult catechetical feature called “Faith Alive!” Through the Depression and World War II, Vatican II and now the pandemic, it continues to serve Catholics around the world.

Wire services are the invisible workhorses of the news media. Secular agencies like The Associated Press and Reuters provide much of the breaking news copy on national and

ACROSS 1 Clasp 5 The Creator 8 Budge 12 Hormone 13 Cain’s brother 15 Uncovered 16 Scat!

17 Plague of Egypt 18 Furious 19 What a unicorn has one of 20 Ancient walled city 22 Last letter of Greek alphabet 25 Royalty 26 Mayan 27 Leg joint 28 Average work performance 31 Jeep model 34 Pride 35 State 36 Compass point 37 Droop 40 Cain fled to this land 41 Border 42 Harassing 45 No room for them in the __ 46 Peter, for short 48 August (abbr.)

49 Fake coin 50 Elite intellectuals’ society

international events, allowing local dailies to focus their attention and resources on stories close at hand.

Catholic News Service does the same for Catholic media. While they focus on local issues and the activities of their own church leaders, we supply them with national and Vatican news stories, often giving these stories a context missing in secular news reporting.

News agency stories are often only identified with their initials after the dateline — for example, Washington (CNS). They aren’t designed to attract

53 Language of Jesus 57 Garner 59 Hard to pass through a needle?

60 Door grip 64 Double-reed instrument 65 Whipped dairy food 66 Christmas 67 __ Major (Big Dipper) 68 Watch out for 69 Decade 70 Visionary DOWN 1 Meat and potatoes dish 2 Sound of a sneeze 3 Rain heavily 4 Smallest phonetic unit 5 Young lady 6 Kimono sash 7 Last month of year 8 Mother of Jesus 9 Voiced 10 Oppose 11 Garden of __ 14 From Beirut 15 Holy book 21 exist 23 Long fish 24 OT prophet

attention to themselves, but simply to provide readers with the information they need to decide if it is coming from a trusted source.

In a time of fake news, alternative facts and disinformation of all types, Pope Francis again reiterated in his talk to CNS the importance of “a clear and unbiased presentation of the facts.”

Journalists in both the Catholic and the secular press are under more pressure now than perhaps ever before.

For Catholic journalists, the sex abuse scandals have been particularly trying, and the growing divisions in the church often mean there is pressure to report propaganda, not news, or to satisfy one ideological side or another.

That’s why having a moment to reflect with the pope on our history and our mission to serve the church was a rare and privileged opportunity.

Now, it is time to get back to work. In our second century, Catholic News Service will continue to honor that trust that the bishops, our clients and our readers have placed in us. In the words of Pope Francis, we will always strive “to serve the truth with humility and responsibility.”

Erlandson, director and editor-in-chief of Catholic News Service, can be reached via email at: gerlandson@ catholicnews.com.

25 Stretch to make do 28 Pennsylvania (abbr.)

29 Excited 30 Pole 31 He killed Abel 32 Religious song 33 Louisville locale 35 __ Lanka 38 Father of Abel 39 Rubber cement, for example 43 Electroencephalograph (abbr.)

44 Volcanic 46 Hymn of praise 47 Samuel’s mentor 51 Blade 52 Risen 53 Account (abbr.)

54 Underdone 55 Last word of a prayer 56 Alcoholic beverage from honey 58 Come close to 61 Kernel 62 Bullfight cheer 63 TV lawyer Matlock Solution on page 2

LOCAL NEWS

FEBRUARY 19, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

7

Fort chaplain and staff find Lent a special challenge

By Maggie MacFarland Phillips Special to The Leaven

L

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATIE PETERSON

Chaplain (Maj.) Jason Hesseling celebrates Mass at the Pioneer Chapel at Fort Leavenworth. The chapel is shared by both the Catholic and Protestant communities.

Father Hesseling also has a day job at the before the Protestant service, they inU.S. Army’s Mission Command Center formed Father Hesseling of the Fort of Excellence at its Combined Arms Leavenworth Catholic community’s THE PRIMARY CHALLENGE Doctrine Directorate, supporting its mis- custom of starting Palm Sunday Mass 10 sion to effectively prepare soldiers and minutes early in order to have time for FOR MILITARY CHAPELS IS leaders for war. the blessing of the palms at the beginMeanwhile, in his pastoral duties — ning, without running long and inconveTHAT CHAPELS ARE ONE OF like many priests today — he is often a niencing the Protestant congregation.

Like many Army chapels, the St. IgTHE PRIMARY HUBS TO BUILD A one-man show, supported by a small staff and dedicated volunteers as he says mul- natius Catholic Community shares its SENSE OF COMMUNITY. tiple Masses on Sundays and holy days to space with other denominations. Visiaccommodate smaller COVID-compliant tors often express surprise when, at the [R]ELATIONSHIPS ARE HARD congregations of no more than 15 families conclusion of Mass, the crucifix turns at a time, per garrison rules. around to become a simple wooden TO MAINTAIN AND NEXT TO “The primary challenge for military cross, the Blessed Mother’s statue reIMPOSSIBLE TO BUILD OVER A chapels is that chapels are one of the pri- treats behind opaque stained glass and mary hubs to build a sense of communi- the Stations of the Cross are shuttered.

VIRTUAL MEDIUM. ty,” Father Hesseling says of the current These kinds of ecumenical accomprohibitions. “[R]elationships are hard modations aren’t unusual at a military FATHER JASON HESSELING to maintain and next to impossible to chapel, and Father Hesseling welcomes CATHOLIC CHAPLAIN AT FORT LEAVENWORTH build over a virtual medium. Reducing them, especially during this challenging capacity, eliminating food/beverages time. and keeping families socially distant all Fort Leavenworth garrison chaplain last year after inmates experienced a make it more challenging to conduct efMichael McDonald agrees, and is hopesacramental hiatus of nine months — the fective ministry and build vibrant chapel ful that if the communities surroundresult of budget issues compounded by communities.” ing Fort Leavenworth see encouraging pandemic-related restrictions.

To confront this widespread pastoral trends with regard to COVID-19 rates, Now at the Disciplinary Barracks, problem, Father Hesseling has a unique Holy Week may mean the post could Father Roderic, assisted by Father Duane resource that civilian priests do not — allow more of its faithful to attend Roy, OSB, rotates between six pods of his fellow Army chaplains of other de- in-person worship. around 60 inmates each, saying Mass for nominations.

“Ultimately,” McDonald believes, “it’s about three or four Catholic inmates at At a recent meeting with his staff the people that make this work.” a time. Since November, Father Roderic over Zoom, attendees puzzled over how The laity on post, said McDonald, are has conducted baptisms and confirma- to conduct Ash Wednesday, Lent, Holy unique. They “live and they work togethtions, and is currently preparing another Week and the Triduum in compliance er, regardless of which service they go inmate to be received into the Catholic with the Army and the garrison’s COVID to.” They often all go to the same chapel Church. guidance. The agenda items would have but attend different services and belong Father Roderic’s and Father Duane’s sounded familiar to almost any civilian to different faith groups. prison ministry enables Father Hessel- priest these days, until the subject of “You find that, at various times and ing to focus on his flock of active-duty Palm Sunday arose. places and events, you are supporting service members and their families at How, it was asked, was the Protestant and lifting each other up and rooting Fort Leavenworth, where he serves as service immediately following the 9:30 each other on, as each of the services the sole priest for its Catholic commu- a.m. Mass to be accommodated? tries to facilitate the best religious supnity.

As the parish staff discussed how to port that they can for their specific comThat’s a challenge in and of itself, but pick up pieces of blessed palm fronds munity,” said McDonald.

“

“

EAVENWORTH — In many ways, the St. Ignatius Catholic Community at Fort Leavenworth here is no different than any other Catholic community dealing with COVID-19 restrictions: limited capacity, no holy water in the fonts, less singing and, of course, masks.

What sets worship apart at the oldest continuously active military reservation west of the Missouri River comes down to two additional congregations: prisoners and Protestants.

As Lent begins, Father Jason Hesseling, Fort Leavenworth’s Catholic chaplain, and his staff are like any parish working to minister to the needs of parishioners during the twin seasons of Lent and COVID. Unlike their civilian counterparts, however, the recently arrived Father Hesseling and his staff must follow not just the guidance of the Army and the Archdiocese of the Military Services, but the requirements of Fort Leavenworth’s non-Catholic garrison (post) chaplain, which are informed by the state and local government guidelines.

Responding to an email asking for comment, Father Hesseling could at first blush be nearly any civilian priest in the era of COVID. “For Catholics,” he explained, “Lent is a time of greater spiritual intensity where we are called to spend more time engaged in spiritual practices and devotions. While it’s true that God is just as present in my living room as in a cathedral, it is also true that we are generally more receptive to God’s presence in the cathedral. The space of a chapel is designed to foster spiritual growth and a sense of the divine. The actions particular to Lent, such as wearing ashes on our foreheads or walking the Stations of the Cross or holding blessed palm branches, are also external aids which lose their effectiveness outside normal worship services and spaces.”

The central questions the church around the world is grappling with during this pandemic, he said, are: “How do we intensify our spiritual lives without the external supports built into our chapel facilities — the ‘smells and bells’ — particular to Lent? How do we foster and build relationships which sustain our faith outside of large worship services and gatherings?”

These considerations are compounded at the fort by the presence of the U.S. Disciplinary Barracks and the Midwest Joint Regional Correctional Facility whose Catholic populations demand an additional priest to administer the sacraments.

In some ways, compared to the challenges of accommodating the service members and their families, those presented by the prisons are fairly straightforward.

Father Roderic Giller, OSB, a member of St. Benedict’s Abbey in Atchison, was contracted to resume Mass, confessions, counseling and more in November of

School often rewards kids that fall in line, says faculty adviser.

But young Catholic journalists are

‘KIDS THAT CHART THEIR OWN PATH’

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — It’s been a gift for Hamilton Snyder to bring some humorous moments to his classmates this school year.

The Maur Hill-Mount Academy, Atchison, junior is part of the Weekly Raven Report team, which produces informational and lighthearted videos for the student body.

“When the Raven Report first started, it was really informative to [let students and staff] know what’s going on,” said Snyder.

That information is more helpful than ever, he said, with activities, sports and pep rallies changing frequently due to COVID-19.

But for Snyder, it’s the creative segment, which includes carefree interviews and skits, that’s made the biggest difference this year.

“We want to [offer] that segment where people are happy,” he said, “and they’re laughing at it.

“Just to get their minds off having to wear masks in school, a sports game getting canceled and all that — it brings people together to even watch it for that short period of time.”

Snyder is one of six high school journalism students and faculty members in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas who shared some of their best and worst moments of this school year with The Leaven for Catholic Press Month.

A sense of normalcy Grace Radke plans on studying journalism at the University of Missouri in Columbia this fall.

The St. James Academy, Lenexa, senior credits her “Exploring Journalism” class as the stepping stone to her interest in journalism as a career.

“This journalism class helped me realize that this is [a field] I want to go into,” she said.

Last fall, Radke was part of the school’s Weekly Storm, a program that allowed her to conduct interviews, edit videos and anchor a news report.

The videos the team produced were compiled and played during the halftimes of the St. James football games, which were broadcast live for viewers to watch online. “[COVID] affected the Weekly Storm in a positive way, in one sense, because we were able to get more viewers on our segments,” said Radke.

“People that usually wouldn’t be watching the Weekly Storm were,” she added. “People were texting me saying, ‘I saw you on the Weekly Storm — that was so cool!’”

Now, in addition to honing her interviewing skills, Radke learned video

production as well. She even got a taste of investigative journalism when she covered how COVID has impacted athletes’ recruiting prospects for college scholarships.

“Getting to do the investigative journalism piece at the end of the year was really exciting for me,” she said, since it’s a niche she’s interested in for the future.

Weekly Storm staff had to maneuver through the routine COVID-related restrictions this year, like mask-wearing and social distancing. But the students came up with new ways to shoot videos — like wearing clear face shields and filming outside.

Radke said the extra work was worth it to bring some normalcy back to the school.

“It definitely connected a bunch of people,” she said, “especially the freshmen that don’t really know anything about the school since this is their first year, and everything’s so different from what it would normally be.”

“It’s meant so much,” Radke concluded, “because I have loved getting to be a part of that and show what the St. James community is all about.”

Maria Nguyen, left, and Isabel Copeland work on The Miegian, the student-led news publication for Bisho

A strong connection Isabel Copeland never expected to take an interest in high school journalism.

It was her second choice for a freshman-year elective at Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park, but she was surprised by how much she enjoyed it.

“I took newspaper and yearbook my sophomore year because I was that into it,” she said.

Now, Copeland is the editor-in-chief of The Miegian, the school’s news publication, and she’s learned all sorts of skills during the year of COVID. “My communication skills have gotten a lot better this year,” she said. “I’m more comfortable reaching out to people.”

The Miegian would typically produce an issue every month, but the paper now utilizes a website where it posts articles more regularly. The staff eventually publishes each full issue on issuu.com.

“We always wanted to start a website,” said Copeland, “but since COVID, we got to focus on it a lot more.”

Copeland has multiple responsibilities, including proofreading, page design, content creation and writing.

She even redesigned the entire layout of the paper and helped publish one of its largest issues.

“A challenge is definitely trying to find news stories that aren’t related to COVID,” she said. “It was a little hard to come up with story ideas.”

Setting up interviews and getting photos has also been difficult because of COVID restrictions, but Copeland said her team has done everything they can to make sure students feel connected to

From left, clockwise, Moorea Gailloux, Noah Faddis, Ethan Young and Erika Moll sort an issue of The Shi Park, student-led news publication, to be delivered to students during a study hall period. the school.

“I wanted to make sure people still knew what was going on around Miege other than COVID and social distancing,” she said.

“To make sure everyone knew what was going on and people were still connected has meant a lot to me,” she continued. “My staff did a really good job of being able to portray that in their news stories.”

Outside the box Matt Hallauer has taught multiple subjects at St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Overland Park since 2005.

But teaching journalism and yearbook to young people has been one of the most fulfilling parts of his career.

For Hallauer, the past two school years, though challenging, have been

PHOTO BY MELISSA VANDONGE

From left, clockwise, Lauren Vanderslice, Kyndra McGinley and Rhen Calhoon work on the yearbook for Hayden High School in Topeka.

PHOTO BY OLIVIA CERDA

op Miege High School in Roeland Park.

PHOTO BY MATT HALLAUER

ield, the St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Overland particularly special.

“People who didn’t go to school in 2020 are going to be pulling the 2020 yearbook off the shelf to see what it was like,” he said, “which is still what I tell [my students] about this year’s Shield, too.

“People are going to be looking at this for a while.”

The Shield, Aquinas’ news publication, is printed and delivered to students during a seminar period nearly monthly.

When COVID closed schools last March, Hallauer said The Shield and yearbook staff were challenged to create fresh content on short notice.

“We had to come up with tons of new story ideas, [which] I thought was very exciting,” he said.

The newspaper gives students a chance to think outside the box regularly, he continued, and cover topics that are relevant and thought-provoking — even if they’re not always happy.

“If somebody said the story of your four years of high school was everything went great,” said Hallauer, “there’s more [to it] than that.

“What made [the year] special is we overcame things, we fought through things and made things happen. Sometimes those struggles are very exciting.

“That’s what I liked about this year, too.”

Hallauer believes classes like newspaper and yearbook provide unique opportunities for young people to grow.

“Sometimes, [schools] make kids who are very good at following in line,” he said. “And there’s a benefit to that.

“But I also really like when we can make kids that chart their own path.

“What the newspaper and yearbook do sometimes is [help] kids learn how they can go a direction that nobody’s gone before and figure out what’s over that hill.”

Challenges and triumphs Melissa VanDonge teaches English, newspaper and yearbook at Hayden High School in Topeka. She knows of at least one of her students who went on to follow in her footsteps: Matt Hallauer.

The two have reconnected through archdiocesan-wide conferences, and both have fond memories of the other from their time as teacher and student.

“When he was in high school, he was a

great sportswriter,” said VanDonge. “And then he ended up teaching and counseling.

“It’s really neat to see that he went on to do yearbook and newspaper.”

VanDonge continues to pass journalism and yearbook skills on to more and more students.

The Capitolite, the school’s newspaper, is published twice a year. But it’s the yearbook that’s a constant highlight for students at the school, said VanDonge.

Last spring, she and her students faced many struggles, beginning with the reconstruction of the ladder of page assignments.

“That had to be totally wiped out,” said VanDonge, “and [we had to] start over because so many of the pages were an impossibility in the spring.

“All spring sports were canceled. There was no prom. There was no graduation.”

VanDonge said the staff ultimately eliminated some 40 pages and condensed the yearbook to make it work.

“And we were doing it all from home with a new yearbook publisher,” she added. “Not only were we learning everything new, but we were having to reconfigure and redo everything.”

In the meantime, VanDonge was teaching classes online and students were learning virtually for the first time.

“It was a new experience to say the least,” she said. “I think I was working from six in the morning until 10 at night that last day, doing all the final touches and making sure everything was OK. “But we got it done on time.”

This year, one junior and two seniors are on the yearbook staff, and VanDonge said that between their work ethic and capabilities she’s feeling much more relaxed than when COVID first started.

“This is the most confident I’ve been about a yearbook in a while,” she said.

“We’ve had little time to do much, but they’re getting things done.”

A welcomed distraction Lizbeth Martinez, a senior at Bishop Ward High School in Kansas City, Kansas, has appreciated the freedom of working for the Outburst, the school’s blog.

“We can talk about stories at school,” she said, “or we can share our personal experiences. It just depends on what you want to share among the school.”

Martinez’s work includes proofreading, editing designs and writing.

Learning from home this year, she knows firsthand how helpful the blog has been to connect the student body virtually.

When her own family had an experience with COVID, she turned to writings from her classmates who shared their own experiences with the virus.

“It was a little bit of a difficult time,”

she said. “When I had that [experience], I could relate to them.”

Martinez hopes her classmates will also take advantage of the Outburst when they’re feeling lonely or need a good laugh.

“I know a lot of stories people will share make others laugh and distract themselves from what’s happening in the world and bring some comfort,” she said.

The Outburst has also given Martinez tools she believes will come in handy down the road.

“Some of the skills it’s helped me develop are being more organized and having [stronger] communication with others,” she said.

“I was never really the one that was outgoing,” she added. “But I learned to contribute with everybody else and share my thoughts.”

Martinez hopes to pursue a career in law or detective work and is grateful for the writing and editing experiences she has under her belt.

“I feel like the Outburst is really going to help me a lot with that,” she said.

Skills for the future Snyder never expected to learn so much through the Raven Report.

But through filming, directing and editing, the experience has kept him on his toes creatively.

“We don’t write an exact script,” he said. “We just write down main ideas and let it free flow. Everyone in the class has a really good imagination and are really creative.”

The staff’s work has been different this year because of COVID. “COVID’s changed a lot of things,” said Snyder, “but it’s definitely changed the way it gets filmed and what goes inside of it.”

“With the creative segment,” he added “it’s a little harder because, with restrictions [and] masks, you can’t really hear each other that well.

“We can’t really do the things that were done last year because of social distancing. We can’t be in close proximity for a long time.”

But Snyder believes the product they’re able to offer Maur Hill-Mount Academy is just as beneficial as a normal year. He often hears students chatting about the report in the hallways after it’s shown to the school on Fridays.

“I can visually see that it brings people together because it gives someone something to talk about with another person,” he said.

Snyder hopes to enter a career in advertisement and believes his experience at Maur Hill-Mount Academy will help him get there.

“It’s definitely broadened my horizons to where I know how to do so much more than I knew [before],” he said.

10

NATION

FEBRUARY 19, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Street named after Archbishop Sheen

By Tom Dermody Catholic News Service

P

EORIA, Ill. (CNS) — In a celebration blending religious and civic pride in one of Peoria’s most famous and influential historic residents, the street outside St. Mary’s Cathedral in Peoria was given the honorary designation of “Bishop Fulton Sheen Avenue” Feb. 4.

“These were the streets where Fulton Sheen grew up,” said Msgr.

Stanley Deptula, executive director of the Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen Foundation.

He was among those offering brief remarks during an unveiling and blessing ceremony for four newly erected signs on a three-block stretch of Madison Avenue just north of the city’s downtown.

Msgr. Deptula noted that when the media pioneer and sainthood candidate was a boy, Archbishop Sheen’s family moved from a farm to the cathedral neighborhood so that young Fulton and his brothers could attend its grade school and nearby Spalding Institute.

St. Mary’s Cathedral would be the site where, in 1919, Archbishop Sheen was ordained a priest of the Diocese of Peoria. It is now where his remains are interred.

“And it is from these very streets that Fulton Sheen went on to change the world, not just the Catholic world, but the world, with a message that life is worth living,” said Msgr.

Deptula, quoting the title of Archbishop Sheen’s popular television series in the 1950s.

Archbishop Sheen — also known for his many books and support of the church’s worldwide missions — died in 1979. Pope Benedict XVI approved his heroic virtues and declared Archbishop Sheen “venerable” in 2012. His remains were transferred from St. Patrick’s Cathedral

CCUSA receives $1 million grant to help fire-devastated communities

By Dennis Sadowski Catholic News Service

C THE CATHOLIC POST/TOM DERMODY

Coadjutor Bishop Louis Tylka of Peoria, Illinois, applauds as a city traffic operations worker unveils a newly erected sign designating Madison Avenue outside of St. Mary’s Cathedral as “Honorary Bishop Fulton Sheen Ave.” Archbishop Sheen, a candidate for sainthood, was a famed media evangelist, mission promoter and author who is buried at the cathedral. in New York City to St. Mary’s Cathedral in Peoria in 2019 in anticipation of a future beatification.

Also speaking at the ceremonies were Peoria Bishop Daniel R. Jenky, who has promoted Archbishop Sheen’s cause for canonization for nearly two decades, and Peoria Mayor Jim Ardis.

Bishop Jenky called Archbishop Sheen “a gift to the American Catholic Church, to the universal church and to the world.” Citing his zeal for evangelization, Bishop Jenky said that Archbishop Sheen “is the inspiration we need today in this time of fear and isolation.”

“I am very proud that he comes from here,” said Bishop Jenky. “And

I am very happy that his remains rightly are interred in our beloved cathedral. And I know I join with all of you in praying that Archbishop Sheen will soon . . . be declared ‘blessed’” — the final step prior to canonization.

Ardis said the entire city is “anticipating that big day.”

“On behalf of the city and across all faiths, it is so appropriate and humbling for us to be able to recognize a man of God who did so much, and whose works are still so unbelievably relevant,” the mayor said.

The new signs have been erected on a three-block stretch of Madison Avenue from the Spalding Pastoral Center to the cathedral.

LEVELAND (CNS) — A $1 million grant will allow 10 Catholic Charities agencies in four wildfire-stricken Western states to provide assistance to people burned out of their homes.

The grant to Catholic Charities USA from the Center for Disaster Philanthropy will enable aid to be delivered over the next 12 to 18 months in Colorado, California, Oregon and Washington.

“It was natural for us to go to Catholic Charities given their expertise in disaster case management and given their multistate presence as well as their deep, deep understanding of local communities and the individuals in those communities,” Regine Webster, center vice president, told Catholic News Service Feb. 11.

Dominican Sister Donna Markham, president and CEO of Catholic Charities USA, welcomed the aid, saying the funding will provide for long-term recovery of people who lost their homes and livelihoods in the fires that swept through large portions of the country from August through November.

“This really enables Catholic Charities to make a substantial impact on the trauma that people have experienced,” she told CNS. Money will be used for direct aid for home repair and rebuilding, health care and case management services as people apply for federal disaster assistance and provide long-term financial stability.

The grant is one of the largest to a single agency in the Washington, D.C.based center’s 10-year history, Webster said.

How PPP funding helped one parish weather the pandemic

By Tom Tracy Catholic News Service

I

f last year’s Paycheck Protection Program was like a matching grant, prompting recipients to stretch resources in order to maintain payroll and stay afloat during the pandemic spring, then it achieved that goal, according to one participating church.

Father Ruben Arceo, pastor, St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Vista, California, a medium-size city north of San Diego, initially thought the terms of the PPP were such that they might put the parish into financial ruin if the loan later wasn’t forgiven. But a future without the PPP aid looked equally or even more dire at the time.

“I was thinking we were going to get ourselves into a financial crisis, so we discerned, prayed about it with our financial council and decided to move forward because we didn’t have enough funds coming in and we were going to go into the hole anyway,” Father Arceo told Catholic News Service by phone Feb. 12.

The CARES Act, passed in March 2020, initially authorized some $350 billion in loans to small businesses through

PPP, a program intended to allow them to continue to pay their employees.

In late April, statistics compiled by the Diocesan Fiscal Management Conference showed 8,000 parishes, 1,400 elementary schools, 700 high schools, 104 chanceries, 185 Catholic Charities agencies and 200 other diocesan organizations in 160 dioceses had applied for assistance at that point.

A recent Associated Press investigative report on coronavirus relief funding criticized the Catholic Church’s participation in PPP funding, asserting its finances and unrestricted cash flows were such that its churches and schools used the 2020 CARES Act to hoard cash.

But each church entity that took on the PPP was evaluated on its own financial terms, meaning the financial health of the local diocese or of another Catholic church across town had no implications for the church that wanted to participate.

In late March of last year, as California and the rest of the country started locking down businesses and public life, vital Sunday collections went into free fall, especially in largely immigrant and working-class parishes, like San Diego’s St. Francis of Assisi, where the prospect of fully moving parish and

school fundraising and weekly collections online was unrealistic.

“Most of our parish is comprised of lower and working-class people who work in fields, restaurants, landscaping, construction work. We have around 7,000 families who form our parish community and for us every penny counts,” Father Arceo said.

When the PPP loan was approved and monies available, the large parish was able to maintain its staff of approximately 10. After the PPP evaluation and loan forgiveness period ended, most of the staff were placed on part-time status to preserve the parish budget as the pandemic rolls on and as many in the community are suffering reduced employment and income.

State unemployment assistance has helped local families only to a point; many parish members are working parttime or not at all. The gaps in parish finances during the last year have not been magically filled by PPP or any other emergency funding.

Father Arceo said the difficulties of 2020 taught the parish community a lot about working together well as families and staff, and how to stand firm and move forward utilizing anything that will help operations continue.

At the parish’s St. Francis of Assisi School, principal Elizabeth Joseph, said the pandemic lockdowns last year threw the school into an immediate crisis mode where they shifted to virtual learning mode for most of the student body.

The school refunded tuition for a number of preschooler families that couldn’t be accommodated through virtual learning, while other school families left altogether, opting for home schooling, charter schools and other solutions.

“Our fall enrollment was way down because parents were not sure what was going to happen and they did charter and home school,” Joseph told CNS, adding that all the safety measures and investment in new technology set the school back some $50,000. The school is operating now in a hybrid blend of in-person classes and student virtual learning.

“If not for the PPP at that time, we would not have been able to keep our school afloat,” Joseph said.

“Even with the PPP loan we did not give a raise this year but the faculty all came back because they said, ‘we want to do this.’”

FEBRUARY 19, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

WORLD

11

Spanish lawyers act to prevent removal of crosses

By Jonathan Luxmoore Catholic News Service

A

group of Spanish lawyers has launched petitions and lawsuits to prevent the removal of crosses by local officials, after claims that Christian symbols are linked with the country’s former dictatorship.

“Many towns are being pressured to get rid of public crosses, which local people have spent weeks and months defending,” said Maria Riesco, spokeswoman for the Association of Christian Lawyers.

“We are checking the documentation and investigating each case, as well as maintaining a dialogue with regional governments in hopes of having them restored.”

Riesco, a Catholic, spoke as the Valladolid-based association announced legal proceedings against the mayor of Aguilar de la Frontera, near Cordoba, for ordering the demolition of a cross outside the town’s Carmelite convent.

In a Feb. 12 interview with Catholic News Service, she said the 20-foot concrete cross had been taken down illegally amid Catholic protests, in violation of religious freedom.

The press office of the Spanish bishops’ conference told CNS Feb. 12 the Association of Christian Lawyers was acting independently of the church. It said the conference would not comment on the removal of public crosses.

Meanwhile, Polonia Castellanos, lawyers association president, said action was also underway to protect crosses in Spain’s western Extramadura region, after at least 34 municipalities were ordered to remove them from streets and parks.

“The decision to demolish these monuments is purely ideological; if carried out, it would cause irreparable damage,” Castellanos said in a website statement, which noted at least 25,000 Spaniards had signed a protest petition. “Every time a cross is knocked

CNS PHOTO/EMILIO NARANJO, POOL VIA REUTERS

A large cross is pictured above the mausoleum where the tomb of former Spanish dictator Gen. Francisco Franco was located in the Valley of the Fallen near Madrid before it was exhumed Oct. 24, 2019. Spanish lawyers have taken action to prevent the removal of crosses by local officials, after claims that Christian symbols are linked with the country’s former dictatorship. down, we will bring the person responsible to justice.”

The cross in Aguilar de la Frontera, installed in 1938, was trucked to a landfill Jan. 19, after the mayor, Carmen Flores, argued it violated Spain’s 2007 Law on Historical Memory, which prohibits symbols deemed to praise the 1939-1975 rule of Gen. Francisco Franco.

Catholic protesters, who chanted

“Viva Christo Rey” (“Long live Christ the King”) during the action, placed flowers and wooden crosses at the site outside the convent’s main door. City council contractors later removed the flowers and crosses.

Meanwhile, the town’s parish priest, Father Pablo Lora Blasco, told parishioners in a Jan. 20 Facebook message the cross had been stripped of any political

connotations in the 1980s, adding that he had tried unsuccessfully to explain its importance.

“A whole generation has grown up around the cross as a sign of love and commitment, forgiveness and mercy — I deeply regret the next generations will be deprived of this,” the priest said.

Pandemic, security pose challenges, but pope, Iraqis, hopeful for visit

By Dale Gavlak Catholic News Service

A

MMAN, Jordan (CNS) — Despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and security concerns, Pope Francis hopes to visit Iraq, an opportunity that eluded his predecessors.

Iraqis are excited that he is scheduled to come, despite those concerns.

“Iraqi Christians are very much optimistic because it’s a sign of hope and solidarity despite the pandemic, despite the security challenge. It’s a strong sign of solidarity,” Iraqi Father Emanuel Youkhana told Catholic News Service by phone from the northern city of Dahuk. Father Youkhana is a priest, or archimandrite, of the Assyrian Church of the East.

The 84-year-old pope, newly vaccinated, is moving forward with his March 5-8 trip unless there is a serious new wave of coronavirus infection there. It marks his first foreign trip since being grounded for 16 months due to the pandemic.

Pope Francis told Catholic News Service staffers at the Vatican it is important that the Iraqis “will see the pope is there in their country,” even if most would see him only on television

CNS PHOTO/THAIER AL-SUDANI, REUTERS

A member of the civil defense team disinfects inside Our Lady of Salvation Church in Baghdad, Iraq, Dec. 30, 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Iraq is set to receive thousands of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines in addition to the Chinese Sinovac vaccine this month. Pope Francis plans to visit Iraq March 5-8. because of social distancing requirements.

It’s the first-of-its kind visit by the pope after St. John Paul II’s scheduled trip to Iraq in 2000 had to be canceled due to regional tensions. St. John Paul wept that he could not go, as he

especially wanted to visit the city of Ur, the birthplace of Abraham, recognized as the patriarch of faith in one God by Jews, Christians and Muslims.

On Jan. 21, the day after the Vatican announced plans for the papal trip to Iraq, two suicide bombers detonated ex-

plosive vests in a crowded market in central Baghdad, an attack claimed by the Islamic State group. At least 32 people died and more than 100 were injured.

“There are security challenges, that is quite clear, because everywhere there are militias and terrorist groups.

The Shiite militias will help [the Shiite-dominated government] in securing the visit. We hope, we pray there will be nothing,” said Father Youkhana, who runs the Christian Aid Program Northern Iraq.

The Christian program assists displaced Iraqis around Dahuk and the Ninevah Plain, where tens of thousands were displaced by Islamic State militants in 2014. “But if you follow the news in Iraq, ISIS is there. ISIS is still active,” he said.

“The government will not want to risk any situation with the pope’s visit, because it would cause a failure for the country. The pope is respected in many sectors of Iraqi society,” Iraqi Dominican Father Ameer Jaje, an expert in Shiite relations, told CNS by phone from Baghdad.

More than 500 people have been killed in over a year as young Iraqis have protested, advocating for civil rights and a better economy and against sectarianism, corruption and unemployment.

CLASSIFIEDS

12 EMPLOYMENT EEC open enrollment - Open enrollment will begin on Monday, Feb. 1, for new families for the preschool for the year starting in August! We have openings in full-time preschool for ages 2 - 5, and part-time preschool for ages 3 - 5. The Early Education Center is fully licensed by the state of Kansas and all staff members are experienced and certified. We provide a safe, caring and academically sound environment for the young children of our community. All programs are developmentally appropriate with the added bonus of Catholic education and prayer.

Our goal is to enable the children to develop spiritually, socially, academically and physically. We believe that nothing is more important than to provide an environment that fulfills the complete needs of your child! We provide full-time and part-time preschool in addition to before- and after-school care (ASC) for full-day Prince of Peace Elementary School students. Visit popolathe.org/ EEC to download the enrollment form to submit, along with your check, via mail or drop it off at our main EEC entrance. Questions? Contact Kate Potter, director, at: kpotter@popolathe.org or call (913) 829-2728.

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 Community live-in assistants - L’Arche Heartland of Overland Park serves adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities in day program support services and in residential services. We are seeking assistants who are looking for a unique opportunity in a faith-based organization. We are in immediate need of live-in assistants and potential live-out assistants to work in our day program serving 30 adults. We have a recycling program and community activities. Our core members participate in distributing for Meals on Wheels and Rise Against Hunger. They also attend community events such as the library, movies, bowling and going to parks. We also have a need for live-in and live-out assistants in our five residential homes. If interested, contact Jamie Henderson, community leader, by email at: jamie@larcheks.org.

Assistants - Assistants needed to provide support for developmentally disabled adults in a day program setting. Hours are 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. five days a week. Health, dental and vision premiums paid in full after two months of employment. Join us for meaningful, fulfilling relationships with our community. Larcheks.org.

Teacher/counselor openings - Bishop Miege High School has openings for a guidance counselor and English and math teachers for the 2021-22 school year.

Send a letter of interest and resume to Mariann Jaksa at: mjaksa@bishopmiege.com.

Full-time assistant teachers - With multiple locations in Johnson County, Special Beginnings Early Learning Center provides high quality child care in a safe, loving Christian environment. With a balanced curriculum of pre-academics and the right environment, we believe we are providing the children the foundation to e successful in life. We are looking for full-time assistant teachers for all ages who have an excellent work ethic, a heart for children and a willingness to learn more about early childhood education. Experience and/or education is a plus, but we will train the right candidate. Duties include supervising and ensuring the safely and well-being of the children at all times; following predetermined curriculum and daily schedule; decorating the class and keeping classrooms clean and orderly; creating and filling out daily reports for each child; communicating with parent; meeting children’s basic needs (diapers, bottles, etc.). Must be patient and able to respond to difficult situations calmly; have good interpersonal skills with coworkers, parents and children; and be able to lift 25 pounds on a regular basis. There are opportunities for career advancement. For more information or to apply, call Carolyn Andruss at (913) 894-0131, option 3.

Career opportunity - Due to the growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are looking for professional men who are interested in helping fellow Catholics with their faith, family and finances. This is a full-time career opportunity that will allow you to be your own boss and a respected professional member of the community. If you or someone you know is self-motivated, good with time management and has a desire to succeed, this might be the opening you’ve been looking for. Benefits include unlimited professional income potential, flexibility, quality training program and incentive award trips such as Rome, Hawaii and Ireland. There are openings in northeast Kansas and western Missouri. If you want to serve your community, strengthen the church and change the world, call John Mahon at our regional office at (785) 408-8800 or toll free at (855) 356-4849.

Part-time accountant - Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa has an immediate opening for a part-time accountant who will assist in recording and maintaining monthly financials, parishioner contributions, biweeky payroll, employee benefit records and systems management for the parish, including the school and early education center. Requirements include: a working knowledge of QuickBooks; an ability to process accounts payable; reconcile bank statements; and experience in payroll and budgeting, Excel and general accounting. Flexible hours, 15 - 20 hours per week.

FEBRUARY 19, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

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, grooms 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.

Caregiver, homemaker or CNA - Full-time/part-time PRN homemaker positions are available in Johnson County.

Work from 4 - 40 hours per week. Weekdays only; no nights, weekends or holidays. Each assignment is usually 2 - 3 hours per client. Visit: www.catholiccharitiesks.org/ careers, scroll down to “View Job Openings,” then click on “Caregiver Homemaker or CNA” for more information and to apply.

Janitor wanted - Corpus Christi Parish in Lawrence is currently seeking an energetic and highly motivated individual to join our team as a janitor. The ideal candidate for this position is detail-oriented, flexible and willing to take on nonroutine cleaning and special projects as the need arises. The evening janitor performs a variety of custodial tasks for the parish and the school facilities.

This position is responsible for cleaning and sanitizing offices, meeting rooms, classrooms, kitchen, bathrooms and other public spaces. Additionally, this position may work with other custodial staff to accomplish special projects as needed. This person will report directly to the manager of custodial services. This is a part-time position with no benefits but with a 401(k) program. For more information, please contact Shaun at: shaunw@ cccparish.org.

Athletic director - Bishop Miege High School is seeking an athletic director for the 2021-22 academic year beginning July 1. The candidate must be a practicing Catholic, possess an advanced degree with a Kansas teaching license, and five years’ teaching and high school varsity coaching experience. This individual will provide spiritual, administrative and educational leadership to faculty, coaches and students, emphasizing sportsmanship and student safety. Excellent organizational and communication skills, including conflict resolution, are required. Duties will include, but are not limited to: planning; scheduling and supervising events; transportation; safety; and may include a teaching assignment. Knowledge of KSHSAA eligibility and regulations is essential. Send letter of interest, resume and references to Mariann Jaksa at: mjaksa@bishopmiege.com.

Personal assistant - Need a personal assistant for my millennial daughter in Olathe. She has a concussion.

Work approximately ten hours weekly. Car required. Call John at (501) 663-5557.

Hospice aide - Full-time hospice aide positions available in the Kansas City and surrounding area. Competitive wages and benefits. Shifts to include: M - F daytime only; no weekends; or Tuesday - Saturday/Sunday - Thursday options available. No holidays. Candidates must be CNA or HHA. If no CNA, agency will assist in obtaining HHA certification. Visit: www.catholiccharitiesks.org/careers to learn more about this opportunity and to apply.

Elementary school principal - Holy Cross School in the historic northeast area of Kansas City, Missouri, seeks to hire a principal for the upcoming school year and beyond.

Holy Cross is one of two Bright Futures schools in the Diocese of KC-SJ, serving urban core families who desire a private, Catholic education for their children. With enrollment of approximately 150 students, the principal will work with the Bright Futures board to manage the faculty, meet the education needs of the students and build strong community relationships. The diocese offers a comprehensive benefits program, including medical, dental and vision plans; STD/LTD fully paid by the employer; retirement plans, including a 403(b) plan; and a defined benefit pension plan.

Paid time off includes generous paid holidays, vacation and sick leaves. For more information and to apply, go online to: kcsjcatholic.org and scroll down to “Employment Opportunities” near the bottom of the page.

Part-time employment opportunity - Happy Hearts Working, Inc., local day service program for adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities, is seeking a parttime supervisor on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Competitive hourly rate of pay and enriching work environment! For details regarding this position, please contact Carol Farnsworth, executive director, at (913) 706-2356, or at: happyheartsworking@ gmail.com Volunteer engagement coordinator - Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas has an exciting full-time position as a volunteer engagement coordinator. You will assist in the implementation of an effective outreach program with a focus on parishes and schools within the 21 counties of the archdiocese. To learn more about this opportunity and to apply, visit the website at: www. catholiccharitiesks.org/careers and scroll down to “Volunteer Engagement Coordinator.”

Evening facility coordinator - St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood, is seeking a facilities assistant.

Hours may vary but will generally be Mon. – Fri. from 1 - 9:30 p.m. Responsibilities include monitoring building use; setup for events and meetings; janitorial duties; routine maintenance projects; and secure buildings at the end of the evening. This position is eligible for full benefits, and compensation will correspond with experience. Please submit resume to Denise Greene at: denise. greene@stmichaelcp.org.

Seeking math tutor - Seeking a math tutor for a junior high student. One hour per week in our home. Ideal for college student or retired teacher with math background. Holy Trinity parishioners. Call (913) 375-8932.

Associate director, catechesis and faith formation - The Diocese of Kansas City - St. Joseph is seeking to fill a position for an associate director of catechesis and faith formation. This position provides catechetical and discipleship leader training and mentoring services that equip parishes to evangelize/form parishioners and increase ministerial leadership capacity. This is a full-time, benefits-eligible position. The diocese offers a comprehensive benefits program, including: medical, dental and vision plans; STD/LTD fully paid by the employer; retirement plans including a 403(b) plan; and a defined benefit pension plan. Paid time off includes generous paid holidays, vacation and sick leaves. Note: All diocesan employees are required to consent to a background check, and sign and acknowledge the ethics and integrity in ministry code of conduct prior to hire. Completion of Protection God’s Children training is required within 30 days of hire. Please visit “Job Openings” at: www.kcsj catholic.org then scroll down and click on “Get Started,” then choose “Click here to view and apply for current opening and apply for current openings” for a complete job description and to apply.

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

Middle school math teacher - Holy Spirit School is seeking a full-time middle school math teacher for the 2021-22 school year. Candidates must hold a valid Kansas teaching certificate and be licensed to teach 6-12 math, including geometry. Candidates must have experience working in an elementary/middle school setting and value a team-oriented environment. Interested applicants should complete the teacher application process at: www.archkckcs.org. For more information, please contact Michele Watson at: mwatson@hscatholic.org or (913) 492.2582.

Senior Care Authority - Navigating senior care options can be overwhelming. We’ll help you sort through and understand all your care and living options and point you to vetted resources. Placement assistance is FREE. We do a thorough assessment, do all the research and walk with you as you make these big decisions for you or your loved one. Call (913) 359-8580.

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.

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

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. montemacedisability.org.

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

Call Joe, mention The Leaven discount.

A Total Door (913) 236-6440.

-8 to Your IdealWeight Get Real, Get Healthy, Get Empowered Take back your power and release weight, fatigue and joint pain without hunger or cravings!

Call or text Kathi at (816) 809-7739 Email: imagewellness2@gmail.com Custom countertops - Laminates installed within 5 days. Cambria, granite, and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee.

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

Call Lupe at (816) 252-1391 Bankruptcy consultation - If debts are overwhelming you, seek hope and help from compassionate, experienced Catholic attorney, Teresa Kidd. For a free consultation, call (913) 422-0610; send an email to: tkidd@kc.rr.com; or visit the website at: www.teresakiddlaw.com. Please do not wait until life seems hopeless before getting good quality legal advice that may solve your financial stress.

Garage door repair Sales and service, all brands.

Free estimates. Leaven discount.

Call (816) 392-7134.

Mike Hammer local moving - A full-service mover.

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

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

Rusty Dandy Painting, Inc. – We have been coloring your world for 40 years. Your home will be treated as if it were our own. Old cabinets will be made to look like new. Dingy walls and ceilings will be made beautiful. Woodwork will glow. Lead-certified and insured. Call (913) 341-9125.

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 and add knockdown to your ceilings!

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

Accepting major credit cards.

Call with questions.

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.

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.

WANTED TO BUY

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

Wanted to buy - Old cars or hot rods. Uncompleted project cars in any condition, with or without titles. Cash buyer. Call (913) 980-3559.

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

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

Handyman - Furloughed railroader just trying to keep the bills paid for my little family. I advertised here as Father and Son Home Exteriors and Remodeling for 13 years before working for the railroad last year. I can do all carpentry, windows, doors, trim, siding and decks. I can paint, sheetrock and love to do tile. Just about any project you have around your home, I can do. No project too big or too small. Just give me a call at (913) 709-7230 and ask for Josh.

Wanted to buy - If you have an extra car and/or truck you don’t know what to do with, give us a call. We are a cash buyer. Call Mark at (913) 980-4905.

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. >> Classifieds continue on page 13

LOCAL NEWS

FEBRUARY 19, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

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 - Craftsman 21” snow thrower. 179cc with electric start. Excellent condition, used less than ten hours.

Call Mike at (913) 707-1081.

For sale - Daybed with pop-up trundle bed, two twin mattresses included. Traditional look, cherry hardwood posts with black metal grills featuring round wire spindles, metal headboard. Asking $350. Call Barbara at (913) 522-0588 if interested.

For sale - Two side-by-side, full-size crypts with marble fronts inside the Center Chapel, Tier C, 1 and 3, main floor. Open and close fees included. Contact Jim at (913) 208-3698.

REAL ESTATE Farm - Ranch - I am interested in purchasing a farm or ranch. If you have considered selling but would like to stay in a home on the property, then we could work that out. My home parish is Holy Trinity in Lenexa. Please call me if interested or with questions. Thank you and God bless. Dennis Montgomery, (913) 208-1379.

Whole Estates Need to sell a home and everything in it?

We buy it all at once in as-is condition.

Call (816) 444-1950 or send an email to: www.wholeestates.com.

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 CASH FOR YOUR HOME (913) 980-4905 Any condition in the metro area Mark Edmondson - local parishioner http://www.buykcproperty.com

‘GETTING TO KNOW EMILY DICKINSON’ Online via Zoom Feb. 26 - 10 - 11:30 a.m. & 1 - 2:30 p.m.

Feb. 27 - 10 - 11:30 a.m. & 1 - 2:30 p.m.

Who was Emily Dickinson? Most people only know her as a recluse, but is that a full and accurate portrait of her? Spend time examining Dickinson’s life, her mystical spirituality and the musicality of her poems. We will also explore the various aspects of her poetry as they relate to her understanding of God and the religious milieu in which she lived. We invite you to join us in learning about this brilliant and surprising woman who wrote over 1800 poems during her lifetime. To register, go online to: sophiaspiritualitycenter.org, click on “Retreats,” then on “Program Offerings” and finally on “Getting to Know Emily Dickinson” for more information and to register.

EASING INTO CONTEMPLATIVE PRAYER The Ignatian Spirituality Center of KC 1001 E. 52nd St., Kansas City, Missouri Feb. 23 - March 30 from 2:30 - 4 p.m.

Join us for a prayer group retreat. Go online to: www.ignatiancenterkc.org/ events and scroll down to “Easing into Contemplative Prayer: Group Prayer Retreat.” Click on “View Event” for more information and to register.

PROJECT CHRYSALIS Online via Zoom Feb. 23 from 7 - 8:15 p.m.

Project Chrysalis is a ministry offering hope through sacred Scripture and community to parents/grandparents who have lost a child or grandchild.

Call or stop by to learn about the options of advanced planning, and pick up your FREE Personal Arrangement guide.

We Guarantee your services at today’s prices.

Helen Skradski

Steve Pierce

913-371-1404

Carrie Kaifes-Lally

www.skradskifh-kc.com Proudly Serving our Community Since 1929

While this ministry is not a bereavement group, our mission is to offer support and hope through Scripture in a time of transformation. The guest speaker will be Deacon Bill Graveman. For more information and the Zoom link, contact Deacon Ken Billinger at (913) 634-4210 or email: kbillinger@archkck.org. The group is open to parents or grandparents who have lost a child.

NATURAL FAMILY PLANNING Online class Feb. 24 at 2 p.m.

A reasonable course fee is charged, and online registration is required at the class registration CCLI portal at: powerappsportals. com. Send an email to Alison or Allen Greenlief at: aagreenlief@gmail.com for more information about NFP classes offered by the Couple to Couple League.

‘CALLED TO LOVE AGAIN’ DIVORCE SUPPORT MINISTRY Online via Zoom Feb. 27

The “Called To Love Again” divorce ministry will be having virtual meetings due to the COVID pandemic. Send an email to Katie Palitto for Zoom access, time and more information at: thecall2love.com. The topic for February is forgiveness.

PROJECT RACHEL RETREAT Kansas City, Missouri March 13 from 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Need healing after an abortion? We offer compassionate, confidential and free services. Lunch and snacks will be provided. Please contact Ann Marie Alvey at (913) 621-2199 for further details.

13 Janel and Michael Stadler, members of Christ the King Parish, Topeka, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Feb. 20. The couple was married on Feb. 20, 1971, at Sacred Heart Church, Topeka,

by Father Albert Wietharn. Their children are: Kierston Bocquin, Sabrina Tremblay and Shannon Stadler. They also have eight grandchildren.

Herman

and

Jean (Kohake) Renyer, members of St. Augustine Parish, Fidelity, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Feb. 20. The couple was married on Feb. 20, 1971, at Sts. Peter and Paul Parish, Seneca. Their children are: Angie Moser, Emily McCullough, Matt Renyer, Cindy Wysong, Christy Scholz and Adam Renyer. They also have 17 grandchildren. The family will celebrate at a later date.

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

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

14

COLUMNISTS

Leaven staff continues to press ahead

DAILY READINGS FIRST WEEK OF LENT Feb. 21 FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT Gn 9: 8-15 Ps 25: 4-9 1 Pt 3: 18-22 Mk 1: 12-15 Feb. 22 THE CHAIR OF ST. PETER THE APOSTLE 1 Pt 5: 1-4 Ps 23: 1-6 Mt 16: 13-19 Feb. 23 Polycarp, bishop, martyr Is 55: 10-11 Ps 34: 4-7, 16-19 Mt 6: 7-15 Feb. 24 Wednesday Jon 3: 1-10 Ps 51: 3-4, 12-13, 18-19 Lk 11: 29-32 Feb. 25 Thursday Est C: 12, 14-16, 23-25 Ps 138: 1-3, 7c-8 Mt 7: 7-12 Feb. 26 Friday Ez 18: 21-28 Ps 130: 1-8 Mt 5: 20-26 Feb. 27 Saturday Dt 26: 16-19 Ps 119: 1-2, 4-5, 7-8 Mt 5: 43-48

FEBRUARY 19, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

E

leven months.

That’s how long it’s been since I’ve worked at my Leaven desk. It was St. Patrick’s Day, and we’d just finished that week’s issue.

The church offices were going into lockdown, we heard, as per state and county protocols.

We packed up the items that we’d need to work from home and jokingly said to one another, “Well, I’ll see you whenever!” — never imagining being gone for more than a couple of weeks.

There was nervousness as well. After all, we’d never actually put out a Leaven remotely.

We thought we had all the pieces in place, but there were still questions. We were prepared to maybe put out one issue from home, anticipating a time some winter — like these past few days? — when we couldn’t physically make it into the office. At most, though, we were prepared to do just a few pages, to “finish things up.”

Oh, little did we know.

Just when you think that you have every-

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.

thing under control, life can throw you a curve.

This story, written by Protestant theologian Jay Akkerman, reminds me of that: From Sept. 26, 1991, until that same date in 1993, scientists sequestered themselves in an artificial environment called Biosphere 2.

Inside their self-sustaining community, the Biospherians created a number of mini-environments, including a desert, rain forest and ocean. Nearly every weather condition could be simulated except one: wind.

Over time, the effects of their windless environment became apparent. For example, a number of acacia trees bent over and snapped.

Without the stress of wind to strengthen the wood, the trunks grew weak and could not hold up their own weight. (Found in “1001 Illustrations That Connect,” edited by Craig Brian Larson and Phyllis Ten Elshof.)

The moral of the story? Though we humans shun hardship, God can use it for our good. It’s no accident that the Holy Spirit is often depicted as a driving wind. That godly breeze can not only change things, but make us stronger.

February is Catholic Press Month and I’d like to give a shout-

out to my incredible, hardworking staff. The pandemic has disrupted how we normally produce the paper, but they’ve responded with resiliency and creativity. Not one issue of The Leaven was missed, even in the earliest days of the pandemic. I admit the first “remote” issue of The Leaven was a nail-biting time.

But we’re still here to tell the tale.

I can’t do justice to list all of the behindthe-scene ways that the staff works, but here are a few highlights: • Managing editor Anita McSorley is the oil that keeps all of the parts moving smoothly. Her organizational skills, ability to generate story ideas, collaboration with our freelancers, editing talents, love of journalism and knack for worrying are all invaluable.

• Production manager Todd Habiger is ever perfecting his designing skills, so the paper continues to have a fresh and inviting look.

He’s also the one who assigns photographers and occasionally flexes his writing chops, especially on sports stories.

• Senior reporter Joe Bollig continues to generate story after story, particularly on complex topics like legislative issues. He has a talent for captivating “ledes” and a wicked sense of humor.

• Reporter Moira Cullings is not only a talented writer, but also our social media editor. Her knowledge and maintenance of all things internet are priceless, as is her patience with us web-impaired, older staff members.

• Advertising coordinator Beth Blankenship has done a masterful job of managing the office and keeping everything ad-related in order, especially during this uncertain pandemic time. She also produces the classified and calendar pages — a thankless task — and serves as our bookkeeper!

And what do I do?

I’ve been furloughed from my primary role of interrupting the staff, especially on deadline day. My role now is to be the wind — some might dismissively say “hot air” — that keeps things stirred up!

Lent is God’s offer of a new beginning for each of us

T

Polycarp c. 65-155 This disciple of St. John the Apostle was appointed bishop of Smyrna (now Izmir, Turkey), perhaps by John. Representing the Asia Minor churches, he went to Rome about 155 to discuss when to celebrate Easter. The result was that the Eastern and Western churches continued to calculate the date as before. Shortly after his return, Polycarp was arrested and urged to renounce God. He refused and was sentenced to be burned alive. When the flames did not harm him, he was killed by a sword, as recounted in an early Christian document.

he majestic frescoes of the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel tell the biblical story of salvation history in visual form in over 5,000 square feet of stunning fresco art.

At the heart of the fresco narratives, painted by Michelangelo between 1508 and 1512, is the covenant that God makes with creation.

Every scene in the Sistine Chapel opens to another chapter in the unfolding story of the covenant between God and humanity.

We see in visual form that God not only creates the world with Adam and Eve as the crown of creation but desires to be in a covenant relationship — that is, a relationship

,

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

of mutual love, trust and fidelity with his creatures created in and for love. This divinehuman covenant is the gift of faith at the heart of the Judeo-Christian worldview!

In Sunday’s first

reading, God establishes a covenant with Noah after a raging flood destroys much of the known world. Then, God paints a rainbow in the sky as a visual sign of a new beginning offered to Noah and the living creatures in the ark with him. This new beginning is the invitation that God offers again and again in the face of humanity’s rejection of the divine offer of friendship.

Lent is God’s ongoing offering of a new

beginning to you and me in our day and time.

Once again, we are invited to renew and to live in covenant relationship with God who is present in word and in sacrament and who desires to be active in our lives.

The psalmist teaches us how to respond to the divine invitation to begin anew in Lent.

“Your ways, O Lord, are love and truth to those who keep your covenant” is the prayer of the psalmist as he recognizes both his sinfulness and the healing divine mercy that restores to new life.

When Jesus retreats to the desert for 40 days, he invites us to join him in the battle of prayer and fasting.

The desert is the place

where Jesus is prepared for his mission to suffer “for sins once, the righteous for the sake of the unrighteous, that he might lead [us] to God,” as the First Letter of Peter reminds us.

Our Lenten observances are daily paths to grow in the life of grace we received at baptism when we were first made new creations in Jesus Christ. Now, we join the figures of salvation history as sons and daughters who live in covenant with God. As the world continues to struggle through a pandemic, this Lent is a graced time to bring to God our fears, anxieties and weaknesses in the confident hope we will receive an abundance of mercy as we pray, “Speak to me, Lord.”

A day that begins with prayer is a good day, pope says VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Prayer makes every day better, even the most difficult days, Pope Francis said.

Prayer transforms a person’s day “into grace, or better, it transforms us: It appeases anger, sustains love, multiplies joy, instills the strength to forgive,” the pope said Feb. 10 during his weekly

general audience. Prayer is a constant reminder that God is nearby and so, “the problems we face no longer seem to be obstacles to our happiness, but appeals from God, opportunities to encounter him,” Pope Francis said, continuing his series of audience talks about prayer.

“When you start to feel anger,

dissatisfaction or something negative, stop and say, ‘Lord, where are you and where am I going?’ The Lord is there,” the pope said. “And he will give you the right word, a piece of advice for moving forward without this bitter, negative taste, because prayer is always — to use a secular word — positive.

It moves you forward.”

COLUMNISTS

FEBRUARY 19, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

15

Let the foster father of Jesus become your Lenten guide

J

ust a few days into Lent and you may be struggling with, “Why on earth should I give up anything this Lent?

I’ve given up so much in the past year. Do I really need to do something more? Isn’t wearing a mask ‘more’?”

To be honest, that’s all the more reason to look forward to Lent.

Let me explain.

Attending the Iowa Catholic Conference last September, I heard Father Donald Calloway’s talk about his devotion not only to the Blessed Mother, but also to St. Joseph. His talk really inspired me!

Without knowing Pope Francis would declare this the Year

I

DO WHATEVER HE TELLS YOU

RICK CHEEK Rick Cheek is the associate consultant for the office of evangelization and Catholic formation of youth.

of St. Joseph, I decided in November to read Father Calloway’s book “Consecration to St. Joseph” and pray the

consecration.

I am so grateful I did! In sharing this experience with friends, I’m often asked why. My answer: It has made me a better husband and father and has helped a lot with patience. If you know a little bit about the Bible, you

know that St. Joseph is never quoted, but he was always a great listener, the perfect foster father to Jesus, a loving spouse of the Blessed Mother and a very prayerful man.

In this year dedicated to St. Joseph, I invite you to spend your Lent growing in relationship with him.

Let the foster father of Our Lord Jesus become your spiritual guide. A great place to start is with Father Calloway’s book.

Another good jumping off point would be to sign up for the Tuesday Toolbox (www. archkck.org, search “Tuesday Toolbox”) put out by the archdiocesan office of children’s

catechesis and evangelization and Catholic formation for youth.

Each toolbox will provide further resources to enrich your family’s Lenten journey.

This year, the office of evangelization and Catholic formation for youth is focusing on the Year of St. Joseph at our events.

Our first event on Jan. 16 for high school students focused on encountering the Father’s love through prayer, reconciliation and Mass. We will be hosting the annual junior high youth rally at both Prairie Star Ranch on Feb. 28 and at Seneca’s Knights of Columbus Hall on March 21.

Since we are taking it on the road, our theme this year is “Emmaus,” with a focus on St. Joseph. We will limit Feb. 28 to 180 students and chaperones and March 21 to 275.

Because of this limitation, registration for the junior high rally is on a first-come, firstserved basis. In all our events, we will be following CDC guidelines and the local and county government mandates.

As we are taking this journey through Lent and following the Year of St. Joseph, let us know how we can help you grow in your love for St. Joseph and emulate the love he had for Jesus.

Don’t let fleeting emotions affect your commitment to Mass

f we wish to benefit as much as possible from our participation in the Mass, we’ve got to maintain, as I said last time, our focus.

I don’t mean some hyper-focus that isn’t reasonable and, if attempted, would probably just give us a headache.

Rather, I mean a fundamental focus that draws us to: 1) simply remember that we are engaged in divine worship, and not just a merely human activity; 2) humbly recognize that it is Christ who is at work in the liturgy, we having received the privilege to participate therein according to the church’s liturgy; and 3) prayerfully join ourselves to Christ in offering thanks and praise to God the

AS THE CHURCH PRAYS

MICHAEL PODREBARAC Michael Podrebarac is the archdiocesan consultant for the office of liturgy and sacramental life.

Father, through the communion of the Holy Spirit.

This kind of sensible focus will help preserve us from the many distractions that can at times leave us wondering if the Mass

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really makes any difference in our lives.

Far too many folks have already come to that most unfortunate conclusion, and we can only hope to encourage them to return, inasmuch as we have secured our own meaningful aspirations and intentions.

Indeed, many things distract us from receiving those unparalleled fruits of the

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Mass, which are ours to enjoy through Jesus Christ and his church.

And the most debilitating distractions of ours often involve the matter of our emotions.

Emotions can be tricky things, as we all well know. Necessary to the human person, they generally fall into two categories, between which there is quite a difference: those more governed by reason and those less governed by reason. It’s the latter kind that can tempt us in all sorts of ways, such as: • our going to Mass only when we feel like it, or our missing Mass when there’s something else we’d planned on doing • our expecting the liturgical celebration

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to satisfy our personal tastes • our desire to be provided at Mass with a sense of self-affirmation • our insistence that Mass must regularly be “uplifting” and “engaging” • our willingness to choose another parish when we don’t get our own way • our preoccupation with everything that’s “wrong” at Mass • our looking for the celebration of Mass to entertain us • our wanting to always “get” something out of Mass (or Mass failed us) • our thinking that Mass begins and ends with how we feel about it.

Rare are those who are entirely immune to these temptations; let

us not be too hard on ourselves.

But let us remember, and firmly confess, that what Jesus did purely out of love when he was on earth is at the heart of what the Mass is all about.

That the church has preserved a cultural expression that transcends passing tastes.

That we’ve been gifted with an order of Mass to our mutual benefit.

That we must remain committed to one another in the Holy Spirit, and build each other up.

And that, while Mass can surely be a joyful experience, a merely emotional experience will never satisfy the deepest longings of our hearts.

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LOCAL NEWS

FEBRUARY 19, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

A CATHOLIC RECIDIVIST*

CNS PHOTO/TIM HUNT, NORTHWEST INDIANA CATHOLIC

A priest prays with a death-row inmate in 2008 at the Indiana State Prison in Michigan City, Indiana. For rehabilitation to occur in prison, the prisoner must undertake an honest self-examination.

I

will be the first to tell you that I don’t like confession. Why? Because if done right, it is painful.

The ego hates it. But as we have seen in the Resurrection, pain is often the path to joy and eternal life.

And what a relief a good confession is, for God has forgiven what the ego has selfishly constructed, allowing us to see ourselves, and reality, in the light of God’s truth.

Part Yet, for most my life, I 1 of 2 thought confession to be no more than a tired vestige of the past, a kind of annoying ritual that made people temporally feel good but had little practical use or benefit.

It took federal prison to set me straight.

By way of background, I retired from law enforcement after a 30-year career, dealing with criminals ranging from bank robbers and drug dealers to members of organized and white-collar criminals.

From that experience, I became aware of one commonality shared by most offenders: They usually saw the world in a completely different way than most law-abiding citizens — a kind of blindness to reality, as if living in some kind of alternate universe.

After my retirement, I got involved in the prison ministry at Leavenworth federal prison, where I spent nine years as a mentor/counselor.

During that time, I learned as much about myself as those inmates with whom I worked.

It turns out that “their” alternate universe was closer to “me” than I thought.

“

By Doug Fencl Special to The Leaven

What federal prison taught me about confession “ MY EXPERIENCE IN PRISON SHOWED ME THAT SUCCESSFUL PRISON REHABILITATION CAN ONLY BE EFFECTUATED WHEN THE INMATE CAN BEGIN TO SEE THROUGH HIS OWN SELF-MADE REALITY, A REALITY OF EXCUSES AND JUSTIFICATIONS THAT BECOME HIS TRUTH. My experience in prison showed me that successful prison rehabilitation can only be effectuated when the inmate can begin to see through his own self-made reality, a reality of excuses and justifications that become his truth.

For example, I heard these kinds of things repeatedly: “I sell drugs to take care of those I love,” or “If you get to know me, you’ll find out I’m really a good person.”

In short, it is a total lack of honest self-examination, lies they told themselves over and over again until it becomes, in their own minds, reality — an alternate universe created by their own ego.

For rehabilitation and change to occur, the aforementioned drug dealer must begin to see his actions in the light of God’s reality and admit that the reason he sells drugs is because he’s addicted to the excitement and the easy money.

Then, secondarily, he must admit to the pain he has caused his family and those families of the people to whom he has sold drugs. The inmate who believes that “I’m really a good person” must realize that giving $20 to a homeless person, money that was proceeds from a bank robbery, doesn’t necessarily make one a good person! Focusing on one good act, while ignoring other destructive behaviors, is not honest self-examination.

Acknowledging the reality of these truths can be a gut-wrenching and agonizing experience. Change can only occur when the comfort of self-delusion is seen for what it really is — a self-satisfying construction of the ego that blinds.

After a couple of years of engaging in this process with the inmates, I soon realized that I was doing the very same kind of thing in my own life, comfortably living with my own ego-constructed reality. I, too, was suffering from the “good guy” syndrome, smugly living in my own alternative universe, giving no thought to my own actions and victimizations.

For if I have convinced myself, for example, that I am a good husband or parent, without self-examining what a good husband or parent really means, then I am fooling myself and not doing the hard and painful work of the self-examination required for positive change. I was pointing fingers at the inmates while engaging in the very same kind of self-satisfying ego-driven mental gymnastics.

Yet when I began to see myself in God’s light, outside of my ego-constructed fabrications, it was an agonizing and humbling experience — what I imagine purgatory to be.

I think, as Catholics, we have a

* re·cid·i·vist (noun) — a convicted criminal who reoffends, especially repeatedly.

God-given process, the efficacious gift of confession, in which we have a way to combat the self-delusion of ego-constructed reality.

The shame of it all is that if not done correctly (without a thorough self-examination before confession, for example), the ego undermines all our good intentions.

We leave confession forgiven, but without truly confronting the underlying causes that hamper positive change. We become recidivists ourselves — never changing, doing the same destructive things over and over again.

True change — to become more like Christ, our Christian mandate — begins with unblinking honesty and in-depth self-reflection, an often painful process that thankfully leads to humility and contrition.

It is only then that the sinister and confining walls the ego has constructed can be razed by God’s mercy and love.

And once liberated, we can begin to see ourselves, and reality, in the freeing light of God’s truth.

Doug Fencl worked in the field of law enforcement for more than 30 years, after which he worked for almost 10 years as a mentor/counselor in prison ministry at the U.S. Penitentiary Leavenworth. Fencl is a parishioner of Church of the Ascension in Overland Park.