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www.theleaven.com | Newspaper of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas | Vol. 32, No. 38 may 13, 2011

The Japanese Connection Story and photos by

Jill Ragar Esfeld

VERLAND PARK — Six Japanese girls who visited St. Thomas Aquinas High School here just weeks after earthquakes devastated their country have returned home with much more than memories of a different culture. They took back donations to help with their country’s recovery — and with the knowledge that people here are praying for them. “At school, we pray at the beginning of every class,” said Aquinas freshman Camille Nutti, whose family welcomed 17-year-old Ayaka Matsumoto into their home. “We pray at school and in our family, too,” added her sister Claire, who is a junior. And Japan’s recovery was always included in those prayers. So when their Japanese guest arrived and asked what they were doing, Camille explained. In fact, the sisters, from Church of the Ascension Parish in Overland Park, copied out some common Catholic prayers in English so Ayaka could read along and understand them. Ayaka and her companions were visiting as part of a cultural exchange program between St. Thomas Aquinas and its sister school, Yonaga High School in Yonaga, Japan. Ayaka’s unfamiliarity with prayer was not surprising to the Aquinas organizer of the exchange. “They may not have had very much exposure to other religions,” said Spanish teacher Kaye Thompson, who heads the exchange program for the Overland Park high school. Most Japanese practice a combination ShintoBuddhist religion, she said. “They have times like New Year’s Day, when they go to the shrines and temples, but it’s not regular like ours,” she said. “So it’s really interesting for them.” Although they were better at understanding English than speaking it, Ayaka and her fellow exchange students adjusted quickly to their new surroundings, said Thompson. They attended school with their hosts, visited local sights, and were immersed in American culture. One unique experience for the visitors was a slumber party — typically American, except for the menu. “We got sushi from a Japanese steak house,” said Camille.

Turn to “homeland’s’” on page 16

Spanish teacher Kaye Thompson, who heads the Japanese Exchange program at St. Thomas Aquinas in Overland Park, poses with this year’s students visiting from Yonaga High School in Yonaga, Japan. The exchange students dressed in traditional Japanese kimonos for Japan Day at the school. The day’s events raised money to help victims of the earthquake/tsunami in Japan. Pictured are: (back row, from left) Thompson, Ayaka Matsumoto, Mayumi Morita, and Tomomi Wada; (front row, from left): Rikako Kinoshita, Mamiko Vesuzu, and Chihoko Vesuzu.

First communion

Leaven photographers follow two children from Sacred Heart Parish in Ottawa as they make their first Communion.

Stamp out hunger

Donating to a food pantry is now as easy as mailing a letter. Postal workers will be picking up nonperishable food right at your mailbox on May 14. Just leave your items in a sturdy bag next to your mailbox, and letter carriers will pick it up. Last year, letter carriers collected a record-setting 77.1 million pounds of food.

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2 archbishop

THE LEAVEN • may 13, 2011

SECOND FRONT PAGE 3

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS

Model your love of Mary to your children, especially in May

oday is the feast of Our Lady of Fatima, commemorating the apparitions to the three young Portuguese children. It also marks the 30th anniversary of the assassination attempt on Pope John Paul II.

fort reads: “I am all yours, and all that I have is yours.” In his book, “Crossing the Threshold of Hope,” Pope John Paul II explained the background and meaning of his motto: “Totus Tuus. This phrase is not More than a million people in Rome, only an expression of piety, or simply participating in the beatification ceran expression of devotion. It is more. emonies of Blessed John Paul II, proDuring the Second World War, while vided just another powerful testimony I was employed as a factory worker, I of the enormous impact of the ministry came to be attracted of our late Holy Fato Marian devotion. ther. What a tragedy ‘The Shepherd’s Voice’ At first, it had seemed had the assassination to me that I should attempt succeeded programming notes distance myself a in cutting short the Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann’s bit from the Marpapacy of John Paul radio program on KEXS 1090 AM ian devotion of my II! How different airs at 10 a.m. on Sunday and is childhood, in order to might the world and repeated at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday focus more on Christ. the church be? and 3:30 p.m. on Thursday. Thanks to St. Louis John Paul II had of Montfort, I came lost 75 percent of his to understand that true devotion to blood from the bullet wounds when he the Mother of God is actually Christoarrived at the hospital. Doctors worked centric; indeed, it is very profoundly feverishly for five hours to preserve his rooted in the mystery of the Blessed life. When Blessed John Paul visited Trinity, and the mysteries of the Incarhis assailant in prison, his would-be nation and Redemption.” assassin, Mehmet Ali Agca, marveled Pope John Paul II was convinced at the fact the pope was alive. From that Mary was instrumental in saving every human calculation, his assassin him from death in 1981. He did not thought that the pope should have think it coincidental that the assasbeen dead. sination attempt occurred on the feast Pope John Paul’s motto, “Totus of Our Lady of Fatima. A year after Tuus,” was taken from a prayer found being shot in St. Peter’s Square, Pope in the devotional writings of St. Louis John Paul traveled to Fatima to give de Montfort. It expressed Blessed John Mary thanks for sparing his life. He Paul’s desire to give himself, through placed one of the bullets removed Mary, totally to her Son, Jesus. The full from his wounded body into the crown text of the prayer of St. Louis de Mont-

Archbishop Naumann’s weekly calendar

May 13 “The Catholic Way” radio taping Baccalaureate Mass — Benedictine College, Atchison May 14 Confirmation — All Saints, Kansas City, Kan. Donnelly College graduation May 15 First Communion of great-nephew — Presentation Parish, Lee’s Summit, Mo. Mother Anselma benefit dinner for Franciscan Sisters of the Martyr St. George, St. Louis May 16 Vitae Caring Foundation dinner — St. Louis May 17 St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center board meeting May 18 Donnelly College board meeting

that adorns the image of Our Lady of Fatima. May is a month of special devotion to Mary. It is a time to draw near to Mary so that she can draw us nearer to her Son. I urge all of us to pray the rosary frequently during this month. In particular, I encourage families to pray the rosary together. The praying of the family rosary has a particular power to

May 19-20 Kansas Catholic Conference meeting — Topeka

WHAT MAKES us CATHOLIC?

Archbishop discusses Catholic identity issues with Benedictine students By Hannah Dumpert Special to The Leaven

May 20 Vespers and dinner for diaconate candidate, Oswaldo Sandoval — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kan. May 21 Diaconate ordination of Oswaldo Sandoval — Cathedral of St. Peter May 24 Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas board meeting May 25 Presbyteral Council meeting

Archbishop Keleher’s weekly calendar

May 13 St. James Academy senior Mass May 18 Confirmation — Blessed Sacrament Hispanics, Kansas City, Kan. May 21 Diaconate ordination of Oswaldo Sandoval — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kan.

unite and strengthen families. What a gift to give your children — friendship with Mary! The best way to help your children develop a love for Mary is to model it for them. Mary will always lead us to Jesus. She will ask us, as she requested of the stewards at the wedding feast of Cana: “Do whatever He tells you.”

ATCHISON — If Coca-Cola began producing only 30 percent of its products according to the formula, it would be a complete gamble as to whether or not you would receive the true product, even though it said “Coke” on the outside. As a result, the public would quickly lose trust in the product. That is how Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann explained the situation facing the Catholic public when looking at Catholic institutions like hospitals, schools and nonprofit groups. If a Catholic institution is not providing a true Catholic experience, he asked, wouldn’t you begin to lose faith in the product? Archbishop Naumann discussed the subject in an informal meeting with senior theology and philosophy students at Benedictine College in Atchison on April 18. The students had picked the topic — Catholic identity among Catholic institutions and the trials that come along with it. The conversation centered on the recent decision by Bishop Thomas Olmsted of the Diocese of Phoenix to no longer allow a local hospital to identify itself as Catholic due to an abortion performed there. There are specific church documents, he explained, that outline for both schools and hospitals what is expected of a Catholic institution. The interpretation of the text is left to the head of each diocese or archdiocese. “It is our responsibility to interpret such documents,” Archbishop Naumann explained. “We must protect the integrity of the Catholic faith so that beliefs are not distorted and corrupted.” There are times when some Catholic schools and health care facilities do not follow Catholic teaching and this can lead to a misinterpretation of the Catholic faith, which leads to scandal. “Scandal simply means leading others into error,” the archbishop said. “If a Catholic institution teaches or operates against the faith, it will lead Catholics into erroneous beliefs, which could be a just cause for it to lose its Catholic standing.” Archbishop Naumann continued, saying that an institution would only lose its “Catholic” title as a last resort. “There are several steps I would take before asking an institution to remove the title,” said Archbishop Naumann. “First, I would enter into dialogue with the leadership of that institution and ask them to make a change. I would then work with

Archbishop Joseph Naumann addresses senior theology and philosophy students at Benedictine College on April 18 in Atchison. the leadership to implement the changes. Through justice and prudence, an archbishop should try to take all other steps so as to not create a public scene.” In some rare cases, like that in Phoenix, a diocese must take severe action in order to protect the integrity of the Catholic faith and prevent scandal. Securing the future of Catholic health care institutions may be an uphill battle, he said. Since the passage of the new national health care program, the Catholic Church has put pressure on the White House and congressional leaders to correct part of the plan. “The Obama administration was not responsive to groups who want-

“Whether you are a janitor, coach, teacher, or principal, it is important to maintain Catholicity across the board. This must be done to assure students that what they are getting is authentic to the faith.”

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)

Editor Reverend Mark Goldasich, stl frmark@theleaven.com

President Most Reverend Joseph F. Naumann

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita@theleaven.com

”

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe@theleaven.com

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd@theleaven.com

ed religious freedom put back into effect,” said the archbishop. “This created efforts to force Catholic hospitals, if they are the only option geographically available, to provide reproductive technologies and abortion services. That simply goes against crucial church teaching.” Catholic identity is important in the education system as well. This year, bishops all across the nation are meeting with presidents of Catholic universities to make sure they are deserving of their Catholic identity. “In some cases, the visits are very pleasant,” Archbishop Naumann said with a laugh. “But, if there is an issue, the bishop will try to assist in correcting them.” If students at Catholic schools are not receiving a true, full Catholic education, he continued, they will begin to lose faith. Maintaining a Catholic identity is not an easy task. Every employee must be willing to embrace the mission. “Whether you are a janitor, coach, teacher, or principal, it is important to maintain Catholicity across the board,” the archbishop said. “This must be done to assure students that what they are getting is authentic to the faith.” Archbishop Naumann stated that, in the future, he could see some universities and hospitals no longer wishing to claim the Catholic title. “Some institutions may no longer

Advertising Representative Jennifer Siebes jennifer@theleaven.com

Senior philosophy major Allison Thornton asks a question of the archbishop as Francis Petruccelli, also a philosophy major, looks on. see the reward of being Catholic,” he said. The important thing, he continued, is to make sure that Catholic institutions are held to a standard and are not misleading the public or misrepresenting the faith. People should be sure of what they will get when an institution says it is Catholic. “People should recognize that they are getting a quality product when they see that title,” he said.

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 $18/year. Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.

4 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • May 13, 2011

Cubans find friends, freedom and home on the range KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Kansas is different in nearly all ways from their native Cuba but, by coming here, Alvaro and Idania Pino have found friends, opportunity and their own little future home on the range. The home is being built courtesy of a partnership between the Church of the Nativity in Leawood, Church of the Ascension in Overland Park, the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kan., and Heartland Habitat for Humanity. The three parishes and Habitat are working with the Pinos to build the home just a few blocks from the cathedral, at 224 N. 13th. A groundbreaking ceremony and blessing were held on April 2. The Church of the Nativity donated $20,000 to Habitat in 2010, in celebration of its 25th anniversary. The funds came from proceeds raised during the parish’s annual fall festival and a donation from the parish’s outreach ministry. “In this, our 25th anniversary year, we wanted to touch people’s lives in a meaningful way in keeping with the spirit of the Church of the Nativity mission statement,” said Tom Garbach, director of ministries at Nativity and the staff liaison for the project. “We also wanted,” he continued, “to give a tangible and visible contribution to the community to demonstrate our parish’s ongoing commitment to help those in need.” Nativity will celebrate its 25th anniversary with a Mass celebrated by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann at 4 p.m. on June 26, the solemnity of Corpus Christi, at the Overland Park Convention Center.

Leaven photo by Susan McSpadden

College Connection hopes to spark a fiery, fervent faith By Joe Bollig Leaven staff

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — The difference between an incoming college freshman being active in his or her faith may come down to what happens in the first 48 hours. “Curtis Martin (founder of the Fellowship of Catholic University Students) said in the past [that] it was important to engage a student within six weeks of their arrival on campus,” said Father Steve Beseau, director of the St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center at the University of Kansas in Lawrence. “If you didn’t get them in the first six weeks, you wouldn’t get them,” he continued. “They would be approached by some other group. “That number is now 48 hours.” What Catholic college campus ministries need is an edge, a way to contact incoming Catholic freshmen before they get to campus. Fortunately, they have just such an

Singer hopes song will take campers back in time years from now By Joyce A. Mitchell

Special to The Leaven

Father Harry Schneider, rector of the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kan., leads a prayer before groundbreaking begins on a Habitat for Humanity house. The house is a joint project of Church of the Nativity in Leawood, Church of the Ascension in Overland Park, and the cathedral. Nativity, as part of its 25th anniversary celebration, donated $20,000 to the cause.

edge in the College Connection for Catholics, an initiative of Serra International. Serra is an apostolate of Catholic laypeople who support and promote vocations. The St. Lawrence Center has been working with Serra Clubs in the archdiocese for the past three years to attract students just starting college. In this joint effort, Catholic high schools and parishes are contacted to obtain the names and addresses of graduating high school seniors. These incoming college freshmen are then sent a packet of information about St. Lawrence Center’s social and religious activities. It appears to be working. “Every year we have something called ‘Beach ’n’ Boulevard,’” said Father Beseau. “All the groups on campus get tables [on the sidewalk in front of Wescoe Hall.]” “All the new students come,” he continued. “We had a number of students come [to our table] and we told them about our cookout on the first night before classes, and many of them said, ‘Oh

yes, we already got the invitation.’” But the St. Lawrence Center and the Serra Clubs would like to expand their collaboration even further, said Matt Kemnitz, director of formation at the St. Lawrence Center. A committee of Serrans and St. Lawrence staff has been formed to brainstorm ways of reaching Catholic high school students even earlier, said Kemnitz. Early outreach activities could include parish visits, tours of the St. Lawrence Center, and summer social activities. They also want to explore how the Catholic College Connection can support Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann’s efforts to promote vocations. “It’s both looking at how to increase vocations and how to involve and keep students active in their [faith] during their college years by reaching them early on,” said Kemnitz. The partnership has the full support of the archbishop. “I am grateful for the Serra Clubs’ Catholic College Connection program,

which is helping to link more Catholic students at the University of Kansas with the excellent programs and resources of the St. Lawrence Center,” said the archbishop. “Connecting more Catholic college students at KU with the vibrant St. Lawrence is one of the most practical and effective ways to create an environment that will foster more vocations to the priesthood in the archdiocese,” he added. The Serrans plan to expand the College Connection program. “The other big sector is the [Catholic] public school kids,” said Bill McHale, school coordinator for the Serra Club of Kansas City, Kan. “That’s why we’re trying to [establish] parish vocation committees. We’re trying to reach the kids graduating from public schools.” Approximately five million Catholic youths enter college each year, said McHale. If only five percent of those students decided to pursue a vocation as a priest or religious, it would have a tremendous impact on the church.

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LOCAL NEWS 5

OVERLAND PARK — Sometimes a song transports you back in time. Mikey Needleman hopes that the one that someday accomplishes that for several hundred youngsters to Prairie Star Ranch this summer will be his. Needleman’s “All For You” has been selected as the theme song for this year’s camp sessions. The song is the title cut off the recently released six-song CD of the Mikey Needleman Band. “I hope it will be a song they hear years from now and it takes them back to camp,” said Needleman. Maybe they’ll even remember the dance moves they learned to go along with it. Needleman wrote the song after 2009’s National Catholic Youth Conference, where he performed with his band before 23,000 teens. “‘All For You’ was written with the NCYC experience in mind — here in Kansas City [in 2009], seeing all those thousands of teens worshiping together,” he said. Needleman is music minister at Holy Spirit Church in Overland Park, where he is a member. He also teaches music

at Church of the Nativity, Leawood, and plays about 100 shows a year with his band, in addition to his providing music at about four Masses a week in the Kansas City area. Deacon Dana Nearmyer, archdiocesan consultant for evangelization and Catholic formation of youth, chose the song for the camp theme after reflecting on Archbishop Joseph Naumann’s focus for the past year. “The camp theme always comes from the bishop’s homily and writings for the year,” Deacon Nearmyer said. “I try to suggest a couple of themes that are in line with where his heart is. This year the bishop has stressed a deeper commitment to Jesus and deeper relationship with Christ.” Summer camps have always had a theme, but this is the first year to incorporate a theme song. The songwriter and his band will perform it live at three of the camps. Needleman is “super popular” among youth at local school appearances, Deacon Nearmyer said, and he hopes campers will want to get the album in advance of camp. The CD, released in March, is “worship from beginning to end,” Needleman said. The styles include blues and

Mikey Needleman has released a new CD. His song “All For You” has been selected as the theme song for this year’s Prairie Star Ranch camp sessions. folk, as well as a psalm, and are usable in various Catholic venues, from the contemplation of eucharistic adoration to a lively rally. Archdiocesan youth consultant Rick Cheek calls the latest CD incredible. “It’s very Jesus-focused . . . God-focused, Holy Spirit-focused,” he said. Cheek often uses Needleman at youth events because he banters very naturally with the youth, talking about Jesus in an appealing way that reaches them. Cheek

has tapped Needleman, in fact, to be part of the archdiocesan group heading to World Youth Day in Spain in August. After national events like NCYC and his presentation to several thousand youth ministers at the National Federation of Catholic Youth Ministers, Needleman is getting some national recognition. This summer, he will appear at Covecrest, the Life Teen summer camps near Atlanta and in Prescott, Ariz. The band regularly plays in the Manhattan area where Needleman studied at Kansas State University. Those who admired the first CD, “Waiting for You,” may be surprised by the second effort. “The first release was all about my life and not necessarily geared toward a prayerful experience,” Needleman said. “People loved the music and didn’t know we were a Christian band.” But there’s no mistaking that on the second CD. With this recording, the feeling is “this is prayer time,” he said. Songs can be purchased through iTunes. The CD is also available at the band’s live shows or online at: www. mikeyneedleman.com. Visit the Web site for the band’s performance schedule.

Daughters of Isabella look to share experiences with younger members By Marc and Julie Anderson Special to The Leaven

TOPEKA — Most Catholics have heard of the Knights of Columbus. But the Daughters of Isabella? Not so much. Janet Huss, the state circle’s newly elected regent, is hoping to change all that, especially among younger women. Although the group is no longer formally linked to the Knights of Columbus, the first circle of the Daughters of Isabella was founded in 1897 as a ladies’ auxiliary of the Rev. John Russell Council of the Knights of Columbus in New Haven, Conn. Now, nearly 115 years later, it is one of the largest Catholic women’s organizations with a membership of more than 60,000 women from the United States and Canada. Huss, a member of St. John the Evangelist Parish and the St. Jude Circle, both in Lawrence, joined the Daughters of Isabella in 1996 to get more involved with her parish and charitable work.

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The friendships she has made, as well as the spiritual and charitable activities she has participated in over those 15 years, have strengthened her, she said. And Huss wants to share that with others, especially younger women. “I think all women need a balance in their lives,” she said. Younger women, in particular, she believes, have a need for at least one night in which they can concentrate on their own spirituality and extend their circle of friends. Huss, along with more than 150 members from the 33 different circles of the Daughters of Isabella within the state, gathered April 8-10 at the Ramada Inn in downtown Topeka for their 10th biennial convention. Members participated in a living rosary, a games night, a business meeting (during which new statewide officers were elected), a Saturday evening awards banquet featuring a keynote address by Archbishop Joseph Naumann, and a Sunday morning Mass celebrated by Father James Weldon of the Diocese of

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Wichita and the chaplain to the state circle of the Daughters of Isabella. In his address, the archbishop discussed the meaning of authentic feminism and how members of the Daughters of Isabella can live out their dignity as Christian women. “I really do admire the motto of the Daughters of Isabella — Unity, Friendship and Charity — your love for Jesus, his church and her teachings, and your commitment to strive for the development of what is best and truest in womanhood,” he said. Archbishop Naumann went on to discuss the idea of a “false feminism” which aims to have women become more like men and views fertility as a disease, devaluing “the most important vocation in the world — motherhood.” “Mothers are truly the heart of the family,” said the archbishop, citing his own life, in which his mother had a great influence on his priestly vocation. Although she attended Mass at school with her students almost every

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day, the archbishop’s mother, a Catholic schoolteacher, used to attend 5:30 a.m. Mass every day before school. “That commitment to receive the Eucharist every day spoke volumes to me about its importance in my own life, the power of faith, and the power of Jesus Christ present in the Eucharist to give one strength for whatever challenges life may propose,” he said. Elsewhere in his remarks, the archbishop discussed the “new feminism” proposed by the late Pope John Paul II, which, according to the archbishop, is a recovery of the true meaning of feminism. This new feminism “sees in women a unique gift of caring and compassion, a unique disposition to prayer and to faith, and a unique power to influence family life. And it is this feminism that I think those in this room tonight embrace,” said the archbishop. He thanked the Daughters of Isabella for their work and encouraged them to continue the organization’s traditions.

6 LOCAL NEWS THE LEAVEN • may 13, 2011

Local essay contest winners announced

Angi Castle (number 133) and John Shannon (number 519), members of the LIFE Runners team, keep pace during the 2010 Sioux Falls Marathon.

Running for life

By Kara Hansen

Special to The Leaven

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — When runners cross the finish line at the Kansas City Marathon next fall, 100 of them will be running for a cause. They are running for life. “We currently have 75 adult LIFE Runners in the half/full marathon and 5K, and 12 kid LIFE Runners in the half marathon, 5K, and 1.2-mile races from 18 states and Kenya,” said Pat Castle, co-founder and coach of LIFE Runners. “One of our LIFE Runners is really a ‘LIFE Roller,’ doing 1.2 miles in a wheelchair.” Castle and several others provide a training schedule and daily devotionals to anyone who signs up to be a LIFE Runner. Training is largely done on one’s own, since those signed up to be LIFE Runners are spread across the country and even beyond. “We usually train by ourselves and sometimes meet up in small groups for local races,” said Castle, who hails from Illinois.

LIFE Runners are asked to not only physically train for a race, but to pray as well. They pray for abortion providers, pregnant women, and unborn children as they train. Each year a different prolife philanthropy is chosen, and runners support the chosen ministry. This year, funds raised will go to support the Alpha Pregnancy Center and its crisis pregnancy bus called Fleet for Little Feet. The bus travels all over South Dakota, Iowa, and Minnesota with the goal of reaching pregnant women in rural areas to provide them with a free ultrasound and abortion alternatives. Some 87 percent of women who see ultrasound images of their unborn baby choose to continue their pregnancies, making the bus a particularly appropriate choice for LIFE Runners. “The expectation is that each LIFE Runner makes a donation to that year’s designated pro-life ministry and raises or contributes at least $250,” said Castle. “Last year and this year, the donations go directly to the

Alpha Center, who reports our total contribution. We also keep track on our own to make sure all LIFE Runners’ contributions are captured.” LIFE Runners participate in one full team race each year. Past year’s cities have included Chicago, the Twin Cities, and Sioux Falls, S.D. This year, LIFE Runners are participating in the Kansas City Marathon, which takes place on Oct. 15. The goal, said Castle, is to have 100 LIFE Runners competing in the Kansas City Marathon, which would raise $250,000 for the Alpha Pregnancy Center bus. Currently, there are 88 runners preparing for the race as LIFE Runners. Castle said runners of all levels are invited to participate as LIFE Runners, from first-timers doing the halfmarathon to elite runners. Children are invited to participate in the kids race as LIFE Runners as well. For more information or to get involved, contact Castle online at: contact@lifegroup413.org, or visit the Web site at: http://marathon-for-life. blogspot.com.

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Catholic school students proved they have “the write stuff” recently in essay contests sponsored by the Topeka Serra Club and the archdiocesan eighth-grade pro-life forum. The Topeka Serra Contest, open to sixth-grade students, was on the theme, “What would I do if I were called to serve God as a priest or Sister?” Essays were submitted by 184 students from 11 different schools. Boy winners included: first place, Christopher Riziha, Holy Spirit Academy (home school), Atchison; second place, Will Sutherland, Christ the King School, Topeka; third place, Kevin D. Lykins, Atchison Catholic Elementary School, Atchison; fourth place, Skyler Lindquist, Most Pure Heart of Mary School, Topeka; and fifth place, Jack Bluml, Christ the King School, Topeka. Girl winners were: first place, Julia Therese Fassero (home school), St. Benedict Parish, Atchison; second place, Darian Kuckelman, Christ the King, Topeka; third place, Ashley Everhart, Holy Trinity School, Paola; fourth place, Rebecca Stormann, Christ the King School, Topeka; and fifth place, Makara Laskares, Mater Dei School, Topeka. The annual archdiocesan eighth-grade pro-life essay contest attracted entries from 373 students from 11 different parishes and schools, said Courtney Williams, contest director. Prize money was provided by the Vitae Caring Foundation. The first-place ($100) winner was Mallie Koehler, from Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood; the second-place ($75) winner was Jordan Eberhardy, from Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe; and the thirdplace ($50) winner was Molly Sasenick, from Good Shepherd Parish in Shawnee.

unveiled

In keeping with a family tradition, Monica Vrbas will wear the same dress her older sisters Rebecca, 13, and Rachel, 10, wore for their first Communion. Each of the girls receives a new veil as a keepsake, however.

SPIT AND POLISH

Ron and Kay Sitzmann, members of Holy Spirit Parish, Overland Park, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with family and friends on anniversarY May 7 with a renewal of vows at Holy Spirit Church, followed by a dinner and dance at Hallbrook Country Club. The couple was married on May 6, 1961, at Immaculate Conception Church in Sioux City, Iowa. They have three children — Sheri, Greg and Doug — and six granddaughters.

With his boots polished until they gleam, and his jacket and tie hung carefully on a kitchen chair, Cade Fischer is taking no chances on anything getting wrinkled or scuffed before he dresses for his first Communion.

One fine day

Photos of Monica by Jennifer Mullinax | Photos of Cade by Doug Hesse

t was a day unlike any other day: veils and frilly white dresses for the girls; stiff-

collared dress shirts and ties for the boys. Parents, siblings and grandparents filled the pews. Months of preparation were over, and the 2011 first Communion class of Sacred Heart Parish in Ottawa received the body and blood of Christ on May 1 from their pastor, Father Bill Fisher. Two

families

graciously

al-

lowed two Leaven photogra-

ney of their children, Cade Fisher and Monica Vrbas, so that we could share it with you. And so — from beginning to end — here’s one fine day.

Monica’s mother Sandy curls Monica’s hair — with a little help from her five-year-old daughter Miranda, of course.

phers to document this jour-

s PRIMPING

Game on

Cade, who has less to worry about, hair-wise at least, than his classmate Monica, has time to enjoy a quick game of “Star Wars” with 12-year-old brother, Caleb, before heading off to Mass.

COLLARED

Cade’s mother, Laura, struggles a bit getting Cade’s tie just right.

t TreasureD

Cade pulls out his box of special things and retrieves a rosary to take with him to church.

Finishing touches

Sandy makes some last-minute adjustments to Monica’s dress.

s KEEPSAKE

Monica admires her first Communion gift from her parents — a cross pendant inset with a stone of special significance to her. The center stone is a peridot, Monica’s birthstone. But it is also a reminder of a special friend. About a year ago, Monica lost one of her best friends, Rodney White, to cancer. His favorite color was green. Her green peridot kept him close to her heart on a special day.

GIRL TALK

Monica shows off her new pendant to classmate Darrian Gordon, while the first communicants wait in the basement for Mass to begin.

t sanctify me

s On air Cade and friend Spencer Hiles enjoy a game of air hockey in the church basement before the ceremony begins. The children gathered in the basement before Mass for last-minute instructions.

Monica and Darrian lead the congregation in praying the “Anima Christi” after Communion. They also take turns reading a short meditation/poem about the significance of receiving Jesus for the first time.

s TAKE OUR BREAD t

Cade and Spencer prepare to take the offertory gifts to the altar with a little help from CCD teacher Nancy Bien.

TAKE THIS CUP

After receiving the body of Christ, Cade receives the precious blood for the first time.

s AMEN!

After months of preparation, Monica finally receives her first Communion from Father Bill Fisher, pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Ottawa. *

THE LEAVEN • may 13, 2011

Local news 11

Little hands, big impact Students at St. Agnes School in Roeland Park proved that little hands can have a big impact during their April 18 service day. They helped all ages, from hosting a tea for shutins and grandparents, to operating a soccer clinic for underprivileged children. The students showed their appreciation for those in uniform by making Care Packages for soldiers and delivering treats and cards to Fairway Police. Also, the children helped the vulnerable by packing and delivering lunches to the City Union Mission, hosting a food drive for the Harvesters, and helping at the Wyandotte Pregnancy Center in Kansas City, Kan.

s LET THEM EAT . . . pastry?

Cade and his parents, Laura and Ryan Fischer, enjoy a pastry in the church basement following the ceremony.

s DECISIONS, DECISIONS

Cade reviews his dessert options, including his first Communion cake, while his dad and grandmother, Carol Fischer, look on.

s FOR POSTERITY

Sandy grabs a few quick shots of Monica in her first Communion dress in front of the family’s home.

Pre-K student Owen English was all business as he and classmates packed Easter candy for children served by the Salvation Army.

Third-grader Hannah Bennett did her part for animals by making a banner for a local shelter.

s MADE TO ORDER

Monica’s dad Rick prepares the Mexican feast she chose to have in honor of her first Communion.

They’re not holding signs from God, but maybe they’re the next best thing as students and staff try to tempt motorists to tootle over to a bake sale being held to benefit the charity, Spencer’s Treasures.

Photos by Lori Wood Habiger First-grader Joseph Farrar uses a shovel to muck the mulch in landscaping in front of the school.

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s THE HAUL

Cade reads one of the many first Communion cards he received from family and friends.

s FAMILY AFFAIR

* Photo of Monica receiving Communion taken by Doug Hesse

Monica enjoys her first Communion luncheon surrounded by family. Clockwise from left are: her 17-year-old cousin, Matthew Horinek, from Newkirk, Okla.; five-year-old cousin, Mariana Horinek, also from Newkirk ; sister, Miranda; and 20-year-old cousin, Megan Tryon, from Hiawatha.

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12 CLASSIFIEDS THE LEAVEN • MAY 13, 2011 Employment Sales position - Inside sales position for Overland Park company. Base plus commission and benefits. E-mail resume to: info@overlandfreight.com. Liturgist - Good Shepherd Parish, Shawnee, has a full-time (30 hours per week) opening for a liturgist. Qualified applicants will be fully practicing/participating Catholics. Knowledge of the sacraments, Scripture, Catholic rituals, liturgical documents, and church law and tradition are necessary. Strong communication skills and Microsoft Office proficiency are essential. Experience of how a parish functions and the ability to work in a team-based environment also are primary. We offer a competitive salary and archdiocesan benefits. Send resume, via e-mail, to: slemons@goodshepherdshawnee.org. Lead consultant - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is soliciting applications for the fulltime position of lead consultant for the family life office. This position will be responsible for overseeing and directing the activities of the family life office. Specific activities include reviewing, revising and overseeing the marriage preparation programs and identifying and incorporating programs for marriage and family enrichment. Additional responsibilities involve overseeing programs for seniors, the Project Genesis initiative, as well as coordination of women’s and men’s groups. This position will also oversee the efforts of the My House initiative and work to incorporate the principles of the theology of the body into various programs throughout the archdiocese. Serving as a resource and assistant to the archbishop, this individual will also be available to assist pastors and parish staff. The position reports to the director of the department of parish ministries and supervises two consultants and one administrative assistant. The lead consultant for family life should be an active Catholic who is supportive of and abides by the doctrines and magisterial teachings of the church and has work experience in family life ministry. Prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree or postgraduate education in related area. A complete job description, application and benefits information are available on the archdiocesan Web site at: www.archkck. org/employment. Interested individuals should mail cover letter, resume, and application by May 15 to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, Family Life Search, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109 or send, via e-mail, to: kthomas@archkck.org. Financial planner - CFP®, CPA, JD, MBA or equivalent, although willing to train for right candidate. Personal financial planning for growing wealth management practice. Must love people, attention to details and deadlines. Send cover letter and resume, via e-mail, to: henke@thinkingbeyond.com. Half-time youth minister – We are seeking an enthusiastic youth minister to plan, enhance and support youth activities for our jr. and sr. high youth ministry programs. The youth minister would also help coordinate our confirmation program for grades 7 - 8. Applicants must truly love working with youth and enjoy practicing and sharing our faith. Computer, organizational and interpersonal skills are required. Salary commensurate with education and experience. Send resume, via e-mail, to Pat Shultz at: pats@ corpuschristilks.org. Financial representative - Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding financial representatives in the Kansas City area. This position is ideal for a determined, high-energy, high-expectation, professional, self-disciplined, independent individual desiring to serve others, yet earn a better-than-average income. We provide top-rated financial products to our members and their families and will provide excellent benefits and training. For information or an interview, contact John A. Mahon, 307 Dakota, Holton KS 66436; or call (785) 364-5450.

Services Faith-based counseling to cope with life concerns - Kansas City area. Call Mary Vorsten, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, at (913) 909-2002. Bankruptcy - When debt becomes overwhelming, seek professional help. Experienced, compassionate Catholic attorney Teresa Kidd. For a confidential, no obligation consultation, call (913) 422-0610; or send an e-mail to: tkidd@kc.rr.com.

Job search help - Is your college grad having trouble landing their first job? We can help! Resume critiques, mock interviews, and more from a real-world hiring manager. For information, call (913) 850-3874; send an e-mail to: scain@standoutcareerservices.com; or visit the Web site at: www.standoutcareerservices. com. Machine quilting - by Jenell Noeth, Basehor. Also, quilts made to order. Call (913) 724-1837. Summer tutoring - Available for K - 12 and college level. Sessions are fun and meaningful in context. For information, call (913) 206-2151 or send an e-mail to: Klmamuric@yahoo.com. Housecleaning - Charmaine will provide you with excellent service you can depend on. Years of experience in satisfying customers. Serving the Greater KC metro area. Call Charmaine at (913) 972-7900. Housecleaning - Old-fashioned hand mopping and more. A thorough and consistent job every time. References from customers I’ve served for over 17 years. I have a few openings. Call Sharon at (816) 3220006 (home) or (816) 214-0156 (mobile). Semi-retired arborist - Available for tree and shrub trimming. Call Bob at (913) 231- 6460. Foley’s Lawn Care Mowing, aeration & overseeding Landscape maintenance Spring & Fall cleanups, gutter cleaning Residential & commercial (913) 825-4353 Proudly serving Johnson County for 10+ years www.foleyslawncare.com Rodman Lawn Care - Mowing, leaf removal, mulch and more. Call John Rodman, member of Holy Cross Parish, Overland Park, at (913) 548-3002 or send an e-mail to him at: Rodman.Lawn@yahoo.com. Tree service - Pruning trees for optimal growth and beauty and removal of hazardous limbs or problem trees. Free consultation and bid. Safe, insured, professional. Cristofer Estrada, Green Solutions of KC, (913) 378-5872. www.GreenSolutionsKC.com. Lawn mowing and landscaping - Mowing starting at $25. Also offering power washing, dirt work, drainage solutions, tree trimming, mulching and all other landscape work. Call (816) 509-0224. Lawn Care Mowing * spring cleanups * fertilizing Free estimates. Insured, excellent references Call Tony at (913) 620-6063 Medical supplies and equipment - Home from the hospital and needing supplies and equipment? KC Home Medical Supply has what you need. Come see our retail store, or call Ed at (913) 385-2020. Need a ride? Where to? I am available to take you to your doctor’s appointment, hairdresser or shopping. Maybe you aren’t driving anymore or just prefer a chauffeur; I’ll get you there. I can also run errands for you or do the grocery shopping. Just give me a call to discuss your needs. Johnson County only. Call (913) 469-6211 or (816) 806-0564.

Caregiving Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation to the elderly and disabled in home, assisted living and 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, Sara or Gary. Looking for high quality home care? Whether you’re looking to introduce care for your family or simply looking to improve your current home care quality, we can help. Our unique approach to home care has earned us a 99% client satisfaction rating among the 1,000-plus families we have assisted. We are family-owned and based in Lenexa. Call Benefits of Home-Senior Care at (913) 422-1591 or visit our Web site at: www.benefitsofhome.com. Caregiver- CNA and home health aide with over 30 years experience has days/nights/weekends available, any hours, for elderly care. Excellent references; call Dorles at (913) 371-2970 or (816) 786-3227.

THE LEAVEN • MAY 13, 2011 Experienced CNA - Available to care for your loved one. Experience with dementia and Alzheimer’s patients. Excellent references; background check welcome. Full time, during the day preferred. Johnson and Wyandotte County areas. (913) 999-4340.

Home Improvement Detail construction and remodeling - We offer a full line of home remodeling services. Don’t move — remodel! JoCo area. For a quote, call (913) 709-8401. Tim the handyman - Small jobs are my specialty! Faucets, garbage disposals, toilets, light fixtures, ceiling fans, handrails, window screen repair, bush trimming and garden tilling. Free estimates. JoCo only. Call (913) 859-0471. Wood treatment and refinishing - We strip, refinish and treat woodwork. Restoration of pews, altars, stairways, cabinets, desks, paneling and more. Work in churches, homes and businesses. Insured and guaranteed. Family owned. Call (816) 241-1900. Carpet, vinyl, wood, ceramic, marble, area rugs, vanity tops, window treatments - 50+ yrs. experience. A+ Better Business Bureau rating. Financing available. For an appointment, call Matt at (816) 876-6619. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Gardner. Masonry work - Quality, new or repair work. Brick, block and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; second-generation bricklayer. Member of St. Paul Parish, Olathe. Call (913) 829-4336. Brick masons - Installation and repair of all types of masonry work — brick, stone, and concrete. 17 years of residential and commercial experience. Small and large jobs accepted. KC Metro area. For a free quote, call Jim or John at (913) 485-4307. Father and son team looking for outside work - Painting, wood rot repair, decks, fences, retaining walls, concrete — you name it, we can do it all for a fair price! We do inside work as well. Call Josh at (913) 709-7230. Interior and exterior painting and wallpaper removal - 30-plus years experience. Quality work; excellent references; reasonable rates. Senior discount. Member of St. Ann Parish, Prairie Village. Call Joe at (913) 620-5776. Adept Home Improvements Where quality still counts! Basement finishing, Kitchens and baths, Electrical and plumbing, Licensed and insured. (913) 599-7998 Garage door and opener sales and service 24-hour, 7 day-a-week service on all types of doors. Replace broken springs, cables, hinges, rollers, gate openers, entry and patio doors, and more. Over 32 years of experience. Call (913) 227-4902. 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. The Drywall Doctor, Inc. - A unique solution to your drywall problems! We fix all types of ceiling and wall damage — from water stains and stress cracks to texture repairs and skim coating. We provide professional, timely repairs and leave the job site clean! Lead-certified and insured! Serving the metro since 1997. Call (913) 768-6655. 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) 252-3376 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) 491-5837 or (913) 579-1835. E-mail: smokeycabin@ hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.

Clutter problems? Embarrassing garage, basement, attic or any room? Let me help you get organized! Items sorted, grouped, boxed and labeled; areas clean when finished. Great references and insured. Twenty years experience! Handyman repairs also available. To view “before” and “after” pictures, visit my Web site at: www.swalms.com. Tillar Swalm (913) 375-9115.

(Continued from page 12)

Misc.

Clutter getting you down? Organize, fix, assemble, clean . . . we do it all! For a free consultation, call your professional organizing handyman, Kevin Hogan, M Ed, today at (913) 271-5055. Insured; references. Visit the Web site at: www.koatindustries.com.

Donate a vehicle. Make a difference. Donate your vehicle to Catholic Charities to support those in need. Your tax-deductible donation of a vehicle helps children and families served by Catholic Charities and is an environmentally wise way to recycle your vehicle. Cars for KC Kids is a partnership between Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas and Catholic Charities of Kansas City - St. Joseph. Call 1 (866) 4309499 or visit the Web site at: www.cars4kckids. com.

Master electrician - Licensed in Missouri and Kansas. 35 years experience in residential and commercial electrical needs. Call Rick, L & M Electric, at (913) 362-1501 or (816) 781-1501.

Yardwork - Seeking a teenager or college student to do trimming, weeding and some planting in my yard this summer. Near 143rd St. and Quivira. Call (913) 897-1503.

Electrician - Free estimates; reasonable rates. JoCo and south KC metro. Call Pat at (913) 963-9896.

For Sale

Vacation Attention, seniors: April and May special - 4 nights and 5 days; $165 per couple, $330 total. 2 BR, 2 BA condo with all the comforts of home with brandnew furniture, right on the lake with a million dollar view of the main channel. Good Mon. – Fri. Ask about the great Branson-style show. Call your friends and reserve your special week. Steve and Sheryl Roederer, (913) 244-2022.

Residential lifts - Buy/sell/trade. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. Recycled and new equipment. Member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood. Call Silver Cross KC at (913) 327-5557. For sale - One space, without marker, in Hope Lawn Crypt at Resurrection Cemetery, Lenexa. Originally purchased in 1990. Lot 20, section D, space 3. Asking price is $3000. Call Peggy Langenbach at (816) 645-2890.

For Rent

Childcare

Home for rent – 29th and Minnesota Ave., Kansas City, Kan. 3 BR, 1-1/2 BA, living, dining and family rooms; kitchen, laundry in semi-finished basement; central air; deck and fenced-in patio. $525/per month. Utilities not included. $525 deposit. No pets. Call (913) 371-7749.

Summer nanny - KU student and Holy Trinity, Lenexa, parishioner is looking for a full-time nanny position in Johnson County. Majoring in education, loves kids and has years of babysitting/nannying experience. Will provide references upon request. Also certified in first aid. Call Krista at (913) 620-5592.

Room for rent – Furnished bedroom/house to share with owner and mother. Good area in Kansas City, Kan. Prefer older or retired woman. One resident cat. Utilities and wireless Internet provided. Large yard, deck. $500/month. Call Michele at (913) 2877313.

Need some help this summer? I will plan fun summer activities for your children: going to the pool, crafts, and outdoor activities. Summer is a perfect time for playing and learning. I have babysat for the past seven years and worked with a variety of ages. I have dependable transportation and have excellent references. Call Shannan at (913) 575-4774 for additional information!

Overland Park - Nice, 2 BR, 1-1/2 BA duplex with a one-car garage. Appliances and local pool/ amenities included. For an appointment to view, call (913) 383-1343. For rent – 1 BR, 1 BA apartment in Shawnee near Nieman Rd. and Johnson Dr. $520/month; utilities included. 10911 W. 59th Terr. For a virtual tour, visit the Web site at: www.shawnee-rentals.com. Call (913) 649-7596. Lenexa duplex - 3 BR, 1-1/2 BA, fireplace, hardwood floors, dine-in kitchen and deck. One-year lease. $825 per month. For an appointment, call (913) 768-6447.

Real Estate FSBO – 4 BR, 2-1/2 BA, across the street from St. Patrick Parish/School. Large corner lot located at 9348 Minnesota Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to view, call (913) 219-4814. Kansas City, Kan. home - 315 N. 17 St. Large three-story brick home. 4+ BRs, 2 BA, two-car garage. Newer HVAC and roof. $155,000. Cathedral of St. Peter Parish. Call John at (913) 302-1621. Shawnee home - 14010 W. 74th St., in the Wedgewood subdivision. 4 BR, 3-1/2 BA, large kitchen and hearth room, formal living and dining rooms, large master suite with double closets, three-car garage. Located on a cul-de-sac in Good Shepherd Parish. Neighborhood pool. $364,000. Call John at (913) 302-1621. Small ranch home - 5924 Barton, Shawnee. 3 BR, 1 BA. Two blocks from St. Joseph Church and School. $99,000. For an appointment to view, call (913) 962-5058. Naples, Florida - Two, 2BR, 2BA condominiums. One turn-key furnished. Two blocks to the beach and two blocks to 5th Ave. South – in the heart of old Naples. For information, call Andy at (239) 261-6233.

Wanted to buy Will buy firearms and related accessories One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee. ***WANTED*** I buy coins, older watches, silverware, slot machines, old rifles and shotguns, stoneware crocks and jugs, old furniture from basement or attic. Call Chris at (913) 593-7507 or (913) 642-8269 Catholic Estate items wanted - Serious collector. Pictures, historic/rare pieces, paintings and statues. Call (913) 871-6444.

Entertainment DJ Colm - Colm Delahunt is available for parties, weddings, graduations, and any other function. Playing all your favorite hits from the Village People to U2. Call (913) 548-6765 or visit the Web site at: www. djirishman.com.

unplanned pregnancy? decisions to make? Replace pressure and panic with thoughtful, and rational reflection. A confidential, caring friend is waiting for your call. Topeka- (785) 234-0701 Lawrence- (785) 843-4821 Leavenworth- (913) 682-2700 Kansas City-(816)444-7090 Emporia- (620) 342-8600

irthright

or call 24 hrs. toll free 1-800-550-4900

May

The social club at St. Cyril Church, 44 N. Mill, Kansas City, Kan., will host a taco dinner from 2 - 6 p.m. on May 14. The cost is $6 for adults; $3 for children.

Mary Health of the Sick Guild of the Sisters, Servants of Mary will meet following the 9 a.m. Mass on May 15 at the convent, located at 800 N. 18th St., Kansas City, Kan. Anyone interested in joining the guild is invited to attend.

“Golfing for Talking,” the annual golf tournament to benefit the St. Joseph Institute for the Deaf - KC, will be held on May 17 at Falcon Ridge Golf Club, 20200 Prairie Star Pkwy., Lenexa. For information or to register, call Sharon Frankel at (913) 383-3535 or send an eto her at: sfrankel@sjid.org.

mail

All Kansas women without health insurance are invited to attend the Early Detection Works program, which offers free breast and cervical cancer screenings for qualifying women in Kansas, on May 18 at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. No reservations are needed; just drop in between 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. For information, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www. mountosb.org/kwc.

19 The Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan.,

will offer “Career Exploration: What Should I Be?” from 10 - 11:30 a.m. on May 19. This program is designed as a first step in looking at personal strengths and preferences to make satisfying career decisions. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/kwc. The Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan., will present “When a Family Changes: Dealing with Separation and Divorce” from 1:30 - 3 p.m. on May 19. This program is recommended for women who want information to protect themselves and their children legally and financially. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www. mountosb.org/kwc.

Father Tony Lickteig will celebrate the archdiocesan monthly pro-life Mass at 8 a.m. on May 21 at Sts. Cyril & Methodius Church, 44 N. Mill, Kansas City, Kan., followed by a rosary procession to an abortion clinic four blocks away. Eucharistic adoration is available for those not processing; Benediction concludes services at 9:45 a.m.

CALENDAR 13

must register by May 15. For information or to register, call (816) 918-8159 or (785) 430-7095. The Kansas City Catholic Homeschool Conference will be held on June 17 - 18 at St. James Academy, Lenexa. Many local and national speakers will discuss a variety of topics. There will also be a teen track offered for 13- to 18-year-olds. For information or registration materials, visit the Web site at: www.kccatholichomeschooler.org. Bishop Miege High School, 5041 Reinhardt Dr., Roeland Park, will offer summer basketball clinics for students entering the 4th - 8th grades. The girls clinic will be held from June 20 - 23; the boys clinic will be held from June 27 - 30. Both clinics will run from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. in the gym. A “Little Stags” clinic will be held for children entering k - 3rd grades from 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. on June 13 - 16. For information or to register, call Dolly Foley at (913) 4959559 or visit the Web site at: www.bishopmiege.com.

A memorial liturgy for deceased loved ones will be held at 8 a.m. on May 21 at Curé of Ars Church, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood. The bereavement ministry will have its monthly meeting following Mass in the Father Burak Room. The topic will be: “How Loss Can Lead to Hope and Renewal.” For information, call (913) 649-2026. Overland Park’s Overland Stage Chorus, a 55-year-old chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society of Nashville, will perform its annual show at 2 and 7 p.m. on May 21 in the auditorium at Bishop Miege High School, 5041 Reinhardt Dr., Roeland Park. There will be an afterglow following the 7 p.m. evening performance in the cafeteria. The cost is $15 per person. For information or to purchase tickets, call Gary at (913) 2364029.

The Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan., will offer a craft class from 1:30 - 2:30 p.m. on May 23. Participants will create a greeting card using pressed flowers and will leave with their finished product and with the knowledge to repeat the project on their own. Keeler will provide materials. Donations are welcome. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www. mountosb.org/kwc.

All priests, deacons, and seminarians are invited as guests at the Knights of Columbus annual priest appreciation night on May 25 at St. Patrick Parish, 1086 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kan. The evening will begin with vespers at 6 p.m., followed by dinner and fellowship. Knights of Columbus will be charged $25.

Advice and Aid Pregnancy Centers, Inc., will offer an informational volunteer meeting from 7 - 9 p.m. on June 6 at 11031 W. 75th Terr., Shawnee. For information on volunteering or to RSVP, contact Mary Newcomer at (913) 962-0200 or send an e-mail to her at: volunteer@adviceandaid.com. A child and babysitting safety training class will be offered from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. (bring a sack lunch) on June 4 at Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish, 3601 S.W. Stone, Topeka. Participants must register by May 27. For information or to register, call (816) 918-8159 or (785) 430-7095.

The Singles of Nativity (SON) will host a happy hour from 6 - 8 p.m. on May 25 at Blue Moose Bar & Grill, 9100 W. 135th St., Overland Park. For information about this or other events, visit the Web site at: www.SON-Ministry.org. Healing from pornography? Monthly theology of the body groups and 28 Sophia Center, 751 S. 8th St., weekly recovery groups are available Atchison, will host “They Say That Jesus

Was An Only Child: An Only Child Week- for men and women. For information, 20 A course in the sympto-therend Retreat,” presented by Sister Con- visit the Web site at: LoveIsFaithful.com, mal method of natural family planstance Krstolic, OSB, from 10 a.m. - 3 or call Sam Meier, MA, LPC, at (913) 647-

ning will be held at 7 p.m. on May 20 at St. Paul Parish, 900 S. Honeysuckle, Olathe. A reasonable course fee is charged. For information or to register, call Christine or David Downey at (913) 837-3182; the Couple-to-Couple League of Kansas City at (913) 894-3558; or visit the Web site at: www.cclkc.org.

The St. John the Divine reunion committee will host a taco dinner fundraiser at Monchies, 1350 S. 26th St., Kansas City, Kan., from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. on May 21. The cost is $5. For information or to purchase tickets, call Vickie Loya at (913) 596-2078 or Chris Gonzalez at (913) 485-3229.

p.m. on May 28. How does being an only child affect one’s view of the world, oneself and others? The cost of the retreat is $50. For information or to register, call (913) 360-6151 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/sophia.html.

Misc. A child and babysitting safety training class will be offered from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. (bring a sack lunch) on May 21 at Mater Dei-Holy Name Church, 1114 S.W. 10th Ave., Topeka. Participants

0378.

The Singles of Nativity, for all singles 35 and better, welcomes newcomers to its weekly Bible study on Sundays at 9 a.m. in the Nativity conference room, 119th & Mission Rd., Leawood, followed by 10:30 a.m. Mass. For information, send an e-mail to Randall Stevenson at: gaelwynn@yahoo.com. Calendar items must be received nine days before the publication date. E-mail submissions are preferred; send to: jennifer@ theleaven.com. Submissions may be mailed to: 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109.

14 COMMENTARY

THE LEAVEN • may 13, 2011

Mark my words

Catholic Press Association Award Winner 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010

Quote Week

of the

“I hope [‘All For You’] will be a song they hear years from now and it takes them back to camp. Maybe they’ll even remember the dance moves they learned to go along with it. Mikey Needleman

Try this recipe for a better graduation ceremony

hree different churches, three different celebrations, and three different homilies equal one long

day. That’s the “math” that I experienced this past Saturday. It sometimes happens this way: I celebrated the funeral Mass for the mom of a good friend at my home parish in Kansas City, Kan., then the wedding Mass of the daughter of my cousin in Shawnee, and finally the evening Mass back at my parish in Tonganoxie. Given all of the preaching I did that day, I feel somewhat hypocritical in writing this column. It’s like the pot calling the kettle black. Nonetheless, because this is what I’m usually thinking at this time of year, I might as well say it: Who in the world thought it would be a good idea to have a bunch of speakers at graduations? I suspect that the original intention was a good one: to give students about to enter a new phase of their lives a bit of wisdom and guidance. But, given the fact that most graduates have zoned out way before the actual graduation ceremony, it just seems kind of futile. I’m not saying that there aren’t good and important things being said. It’s just that I suspect most of that advice is falling on deaf — or at least, distracted — ears. Sadly, the best and most knowledgeable graduation speakers would probably be the kids’ parents. But, honestly, what are the chances that their message would be heard? Given the chance, however, here’s what parents might love to say: We gave you life, but we cannot live it for you. We can teach you things, but we cannot make you learn.

We can give you directions, but we cannot be there to lead you. We can allow you freedom, but we cannot account for it. We can take you to church, but we cannot make you believe. We can teach you right from wrong, but we cannot always decide for you. We can offer you advice, but we cannot accept it for you. We can give you love, but we cannot force it upon you. We can teach you to share, but we cannot make you unselfish. We can teach you respect, but we cannot force you to show honor. We can advise you about friends, but we cannot choose them for you. We can tell you about the facts of life, but we cannot build your reputation. We can tell you about drinking, but we cannot say “no” for you. We can tell you about lofty goals, but we cannot achieve them for you. We can teach you kindness, but we cannot force you to be gracious. We can warn you about sin, but we cannot make you walk with God. We can tell you how to live, but we cannot give you eternal life. (Found in Brian Cavanaugh’s “Sower’s Seeds That Nurture Family Values.”) While it’s important for those farther

along on the road of life to provide direction to those just starting out, maybe speechmaking isn’t the best method for conveying that wisdom. I would suggest, instead, making use of the written word. Why? Because those words can be read and pondered many times over. So, if you know of someone who is graduating in these days, consider sending them a graduation card. In addition to a gift, why not also enclose a “clip and save” list of “My Secrets to a Happy Life.” Mine would consist of the following: 1. Read at least one book a month that you don’t have to. Alternate your reading between books for pleasure (like novels) and books that teach you something and make you think. 2. Believe your beliefs and doubt your doubts. Most people do the opposite. 3. If your mind goes blank, be sure to turn off the sound. 4. Have a healthy sense of humor, especially about yourself. 5. You are not — repeat, not — the center of the universe. 6. Remember that Jesus is always your good shepherd, who will lead you where you need to be . . . if you let him. Even if you stray far from the flock, he’s always there — calling your name, searching for you, waiting to welcome you back home. Certainly the best advice for graduates will never be a matter of words — whether spoken or written. We teach best by how well we live our beliefs. Hey, if we can’t get rid of graduation speeches altogether, maybe we can at least remind speakers (including homilists) that the recipe for a good speech always includes some shortening.

second thoughts on the second reading

Early faith offered slaves dignity, but not freedom

fourth sunday of easter May 15 fourth SUNDAY OF EASTER Acts 2: 14a, 36-41; Ps 23: 1-6; 1 Pt 2: 20b-25; Jn 10: 1-10 May 16 Monday Acts 11: 1-18; Pss 42: 2-3; 43: 3-4; Jn 10: 11-18 May 17 Tuesday Acts 11: 19-26; Ps 87: 1-7; Jn 10: 22-30 May 18 John I, pope, martyr Acts 12:24 — 13:5a; Ps 67: 2-3, 5-6, 8; Jn 12: 44-50 May 19 Thursday Acts 13: 13-25; Ps 89: 2-3, 21-22, 25, 27; Jn 13: 16-20 May 20 Bernardine of Siena, priest Acts 13: 26-33; Ps 2: 6-11; Jn 14: 1-6 May 21 Christopher Magallanes, priest, martyr, and his companions, martyrs Acts 13: 44-52; Ps 98: 1-4; Jn 14: 7-14

ecause of the economy, employers hold more of an upper hand over their employees than before. With the tight labor market, no one wants to have to look for another job. Employees are willing to put up with more than ever. Two thousand years ago, such was not the case. Most workers were legally owned by their employers. In many cities of the Roman Empire, slaves made up a sizable amount fourth Sunday of the population. of Easter For example, in the 1 Pt 2: 20b - 25 city of Rome itself, the number of slaves has been estimated between 200,000 and 300,000 — one-third of the total population. Some of their owners treated them well; others, not so much. It was common to beat slaves as a punishment. It was even theoretically possible for a slave owner to put his slave to death, although that was rare. After all, the slave was property. Under the Roman emperors, the legal status of slaves improved somewhat. Abuse and killing of slaves without just cause became a punishable crime. Still, slaves faced many hardships. This discussion about slavery should help to place Sunday’s second reading — 1 Pt 2: 20b-25 — into context. It comes from a section of the letter addressed to slaves, as an earlier verse makes clear: “Slaves, be subject to your masters with

all reverence, not only to those who are good and equitable, but also to those who are perverse” (1 Pt 2:18). The letter urges patience in the face of unjust conditions. The suffering mentioned in the letter probably encompasses beatings and other punishments that we now would classify as physical abuse, but which were entirely legal at the time. The letter differentiates between those punishments that were merited and those which were not deserved — “when you suffer for doing what is good.” We now would condemn all those punishments as undeserved and the whole institution of slavery as an unjust condition. The letter does not go that far. It focuses attention upon how the slaves who are Christian should react: namely, with patience, imitating the patience of Christ on the cross. That advice reflects the usual stance of early Christianity, which did not challenge slavery as an institution. At the same time, Christianity offered slaves a

dignity that they could not find elsewhere. Slaves could become priests and deacons of the church. In the eyes of society, the value of slaves depended upon the service they could render. On the other hand, in the church, the value of slaves depended upon their dignity as sons and daughters of God. That is why the letter urges the slaves to react with patience to their sufferings, as did Jesus, the Son of God, on the cross. That still sounds like good advice. We ourselves may not be slaves, but we still encounter difficult situations at times, whether in the workplace, at home or in the parking lot. It is always good to react with patience to those situations. We may also need at times to confront an injustice. Complete passivity may not be appropriate. Even then, the virtue of patience will help us maintain an even keel, and not overreact and slip into revenge. And we take as our model for patience Jesus Christ on the cross: “When he was insulted, he returned no insult; when he suffered, he did not threaten; instead, he handed himself over to the one who judges justly. He himself bore our sins in his body upon the cross.” Father Mike Stubbs is the senior parochial vicar of Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa and has a degree in Scripture from Harvard University.

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16 local news THE LEAVEN • may 6, 2011

Homeland’s devastation never far from student’s minds Continued from page 1 The sushi was in honor of the guests’ hometown, which is world renowned for its sushi. The Japanese exchange students gave a thumbs-up to the Kansas version. “They said it tasted exactly the same,” said Camille. But “they tend to be very polite,” added her mother, Eve Nutti. Indeed, St. Thomas Aquinas students found the Japanese girls to be very polite, reserved and shy. American school was an adjustment for them. Ayaka was surprised at the outgoing nature of the students here. “The students here have more fun,” she said. “But all the students are eager to learn.” Ayaka was also surprised that students could drive; the driving age in Japan is 18. She also thought American society more permissive in the way students can dress. “Japanese school is different,” she said. “The students here get to wear earrings and makeup and accessories.” So attending St. Thomas Aquinas’ prom was a big adventure for the girls. “They do not have any kind of dances at their school,” explained Camille. “Generally, the students in Japan are not dating at this age,” explained Thompson. “They are more sheltered in that respect.” The fact that the Japanese students couldn’t take dates slowed them down not at all. The girls went as a group with their hosts. Though the exchange students enjoyed their time in the states, Thompson and their host families knew thoughts of Japan were never far away. Yonaga was structurally unaffected by the earthquake and tsunami. But the girls were keenly aware of the catastrophe’s devastation. “In spite of the fact that I did not feel the damage,” said Ayaka, “I collected relief supplies and donated them. It helped me to help others.” “I’ve not well grasped the scale of the damage,” she continued. “The description of radiation and nuclear hazard, I just do not know.” To help the girls feel closer to home and to demonstrate their support, Aquinas students decided to have a Japan Day focused on raising money for disaster victims. For $3, students were allowed to dress down, and the lunch menu featured a Japanese stir-fry. The exchange students, dressed in traditional kimonos, were available to write names and phrases in Japanese characters. The morning and closing school prayers were said in English and then repeated in Japanese by one of the exchange students. This exchange of cultures between St. Thomas Aquinas and Yonaga high schools has been a fixture at the school since 1993. The experience always highlights differences. But, in the end, the greatest lesson students learn is how much they are alike. “I think once we get past how shy they are, Japanese people are just the same as we are,” said Claire. “I just learned that these people are basically like us,” agreed her sister. “Their culture is different, but inside we’re all people, so we have to treat everyone with respect.” Their mother was thankful the family and school had an opportunity to pray with exchange students at a time when their country so desperately needs prayer. “I think the larger picture is it’s an opportunity to show our Catholic faith to other cultures that may have no exposure [to it] at all,” she said. “I feel like [Ayaka] saw a part of our faith [through the exchange],” added Claire, “and maybe she’ll be interested in visiting a Catholic church back home in Japan.” Ayaka’s English might have been limited, but she had no problem expressing her opinion of the exchange program. “I think the STA Exchange short-term study is excellent!” she said.

Mayumi Morita decorates sophomore Alexis Leikam’s arm with Japanese characters, as junior Brie Putthoff admires her temporary “tattoo.”

Above, exchange student Ayaka Matsumoto visits with freshman Megan Herdegen during Japan Day at St. Thomas Aquinas. Left, Chef Brian Leeper serves traditional Japanese stir-fry to Kaye Thompson, who heads the Japanese exchange program at St. Thomas Aquinas.