POWER OF THE PRESS
Leaven advertisers find that their investment pays off
By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Growing up, Leo Stone’s best friend’s grandfather was a painter.
“And he had his own business called Rusty’s Dandy Painting,” said Stone, “and he advertised in The Leaven for decades.”
When Stone, now 23, was starting his own painting company a few years ago, he met with his friend’s grandpa to get some advice.
“He was like, ‘Hey, by the way, this might sound silly, but you need to advertise in
The Leaven,’” said Stone. “And I thought he said the number 11.
“I was like, what’s the eleven?”
Lenten regulations
Advertise with The Leaven
The Leaven is mailed to more than 48,000 households and offers a full line of newspaper advertising services, including design, copywriting and layout.
For more information, call or email Beth Blankenship at (913) 647-0327 or at: beth. blankenship@theleaven.org, or visit the website at: theleaven.org/advertise.
When Stone, a Protestant who grew up in the Kansas City metro, learned The Leaven was a local Catholic newspaper, he took the advice and ran with it.
“I still send him gifts thanking him because I’ve built so much business out of there,” said Stone. “I’ve built so many friends from The Leaven, repeat customers, referrals — just good people.”
The services provided by his company, Stone
>> See “PEOPLE” on page 4
Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are obligatory days of fasting and abstinence for Catholics. In addition, Fridays during Lent are obligatory days of abstinence. For members of the Roman Catholic Church, the norms on fasting are obligatory from age 18 until age 59. When fasting, a person is permitted to eat one full meal, as well as two smaller meals that together are not equal to the full meal, with no eating in between. The norms concerning abstinence from meat are binding upon members of the Roman Catholic Church from age 14 onwards.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE
Leo Stone (orange shirt) of Stone Painting works on a job with his employee Oswaldo Rosendiz. Stone estimates that around 75% of his business comes from Leaven readers.
As U.S. retreats from helping world’s poor, Catholics must step up
President Trump’s newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) led by Elon Musk has received a great deal of media attention.
Personally, I am grateful for the president’s efforts to address fraud and waste within our federal government. The biggest threat to our country and its essential programs like Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid is the extraordinarily high level of federal debt.
The United States is considered the wealthiest nation in the world. Yet, in my humble opinion, our economic health is fragile. Our country carries a debt of more than $36 trillion, and this past year we added $2 trillion dollars more to the debt. Paying the interest on our current debt is the second largest item in our government’s budget. This is not economically sustainable.
For the past several
ARCHBISHOP
JOSEPH F. NAUMANN
decades, the Catholic Church in the United States has partnered with our federal government in our shared international and domestic goals. Catholic Relief Services has received federal grants to feed the hungry, provide quality medical care and develop healthy water sources for impoverished countries. Sadly, our government has also partnered with other groups that attempted to impose woke U.S. cultural values — e.g.,
LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS
abortion, contraception, transgender and LGBTQ ideologies upon poor nations. DOGE discovered and exposed several of the insane and harmful programs that were being funded by our country’s foreign aid programs.
Similarly, the Catholic Church in the United States has partnered for more than 40 years with the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP). The Catholic Church in the United States has been serving refugee and immigrant communities well before our government provided public funding. In 1948, more than 30 years before the
government’s Refugee Admissions Program, 90% of Catholic dioceses had a resettlement director appointed by the local bishop to serve refugees.
The U.S. Congress passed the Refugee Act in 1980 that established USRAP, codifying a legal process by which refugees, those who have fled their country because they fear persecution, are resettled in the United States. Any person resettled in the United States through USRAP first undergoes an intensive screening and vetting process in order to be approved and legally admitted by the U.S. government while outside the United States. These refugees receive medical evaluations, a cultural orientation and other services that maximize their ability to integrate successfully and contribute productively to American society.
The Catholic Church began partnering with the federal government on USRAP when it was created in 1980. The U.S. Conference of Bishops serves as one of 10 national resettlement agencies that work with local community-based organizations to receive those approved by the government for resettlement. Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas has worked with the U.S. bishops conference to resettle refugees in the Kansas City area. Catholic Charities helps refugees find housing, employment and health care, and to continue their successful integration into American society.
The Catholic Church does not financially profit from either its foreign aid partnership with the government or its domestic refugee resettlement program. In reality, we add financial resources to these government programs through the generous donations of Catholics to Catholic Relief Services and to Catholic Charities. We provide services both internationally and domestically more efficiently and effectively than the U.S. government can on its own.
The church has entered these partnerships with the government because these federal grants increased our financial ability to
ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN’S CALENDAR
Feb. 28
Dinner and vespers with recently ordained priests
March 2
Installation Mass for Father John Toepfer, OFM Cap., — St. John the Evangelist, Lawrence
March 3
Confirmation — Curé of Ars, Leawood
March 4
CFNEK board meeting
March 6
Religious Alliance Against Pornography board meeting
March 8
Men Under Construction — Church of the Ascension, Overland Park
Cathedral Gala — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas.
serve the poor internationally as well as provide our domestic care for refugees. These partnerships in recent years have become complicated. Some U.S. administrations have threatened to withhold funding because of our refusal to support and facilitate abortion, distribution of contraception, and support for transgender and LGBTQ ideologies.
You may have read that the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops is suing the federal government for failing to reimburse the church for services that we have already provided to refugees consistent with our agreed-upon partnership with the U.S. government. Catholic Relief Services has been forced to lay off half of its employees, because of the withholding of government foreign aid reimbursement.
Despite the absence of government funding, the Catholic Church in the United States through Catholic Relief Services will continue to strive to provide food, clean water and medical care to the poor throughout the world. Catholic Relief Services will continue to be an arm of the Catholic Church in the United States that will provide disaster relief to countries experiencing hurricanes, earthquakes, war and other catastrophic events.
In the archdiocese, each year during Lent we take up a collection to support Catholic
Relief Services and its important work. If you have never given to Catholic Relief Services before, this is the moment to begin. If you have given to Catholic Relief Services historically, this is a year to increase your donation.
With our nation retreating from helping the poor throughout the world, this is a time when it is critical for U.S. Catholics to increase our efforts to bring the love of Jesus Christ to those in need. By donating to Catholic Relief Services, you can be assured that your gift will not be used for some of the absurd and harmful projects that our government has supported in the past.
I also encourage you to consider making a special donation to Catholic Charities in Northeast Kansas as we will continue our efforts to help newly arrived refugees. In doing so, you will be responding to Our Lord’s request that we care for those most in need by welcoming the stranger, feeding the hungry and sheltering the homeless. We serve others — not because they are Catholic, but because we are Catholic.
Finally, please pray for the healing and recovery of Pope Francis, the Successor of St. Peter. Catholics throughout the world look to the pope as our spiritual father. Let us pray also for those entrusted with his medical care. May God use them as his healing instruments!
Archdiocese introduces Counselor of the Year awards
By John Sorce john.sorce@theleaven.org
KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Catholic Schools Week is traditionally a time to celebrate Catholic education. That usually means special cultural activities, grandparents’ days and lots of fun activities for the kids.
But here in the archdiocese, it has also become a week in which several very special teachers are recognized.
This year, for the first time ever, the archdiocese has added school counselors to its annual education awards.
Kathleen Feist of Holy Trinity School in Lenexa and Elaine Schmidtberger of Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park were the first recipients of the Elementary and High School Counselor of the Year awards.
According to Dr. Lorenzo Rizzi, associate superintendent of student services, counselors were added to the award this year to honor those who embody Christ’s compassion, wisdom and guidance.
“These counselors uplift their students, strengthen families and foster faith-filled communities where every child feels seen, heard and valued,” he said. “This describes the job and mission of a Catholic school counselor, and we feel it is important that we recognize them for that.”
The two joined Mary Jacobs of Holy Spirit School in Overland Park and Samantha Hendrix of St. James Academy in Lenexa in being honored; they were named Elementary and High School Teacher of the Year.
Elementary School Counselor of the Year: KATHLEEN FEIST
Feist started as a Catholic school consultant as a volunteer in 2011 and was hired at Holy Trinity the following year through Catholic Charities.
Holy Trinity was Feist’s home parish, and it was ultimately her goal to work there and give back to the community that gave so much to her family.
“I was surprised because I did not know that award was starting this year,” she said. “All 10 of my grandkids were [at the assembly] but they were in the cry room, so I did not see them. I was very surprised and humbled.”
“Kathleen consistently goes above and beyond to support the emotional, social and academic well-being of our students,” said Holy Trinity vice principal Lori Henneberg. “She takes the time to build meaningful relationships with each student, fostering an environment of trust and understanding.
“She exemplifies the values of compassion, integrity and service that are foundational to our Catholic education community.”
Feist credited the Holy Trinity community with her success, and said the kids are what make her day.
“I think [educators] are at their best when they have a community of teachers and administrators that support each other,” she said. “We have the same
ELAINE SCHMIDTBERGER IS THE CATHOLIC COUNSELOR. HER HEART IS HUGE WITH THE LOVE OF JESUS, AND SHE POURS IT INTO DOZENS OF KIDS EVERY DAY.
PRINCIPAL MAUREEN ENGEN
BISHOP MIEGE
goals to educate and help the children learn about God, and the kids are a bright spot.
“I never have a dull day because there is always something interesting going on, and the children just bring a lot of joy to myself and to others.”
High School Counselor of the Year:
ELAINE SCHMIDTBERGER
Schmidtberger has been in education for 45 years, with 42 of them spent at Bishop Miege. She was quite literally born into the program as her father was one of the school’s founding members the year she was born.
Needless to say, someone who has been at one place for pretty much her entire career has impacted generations of students.
“Angela Schermerhorn is the college counselor at St. James Academy, and I taught her here at Miege,” she said. “There are so many parents that still call me Mrs. Schmidtberger, and it’s
almost been overwhelming the people that have come out of the woodwork from the ’80s that still reach out.”
For her, part of her ministry is about maintaining those relations over so many years and letting them know she is always there to help well after they leave Miege’s hallways.
“There’s a lot of people that continue to reach out because they know I love them,” she said. “That’s really the bottom line to this ministry — loving the students where they are and helping them navigate their years of adolescence.”
“Elaine Schmidtberger is the Catholic counselor,” said Bishop Miege principal Maureen Engen. “Her heart is huge with the love of Jesus, and she
pours it into dozens of kids every day. Because she has been at Miege so long, she is known as the ‘generational counselor.’ Elaine is bigger than life in the Miege community and I would sing her praises every moment of every day. She is that precious.”
Elementary School Teacher of the year: MARY JACOBS
For Mary Jacobs, physical education has always been a way of life. Jacobs grew up in St. Louis and was active in a variety of sports growing up. She said that becoming a physical
>> See “EDUCATORS” on page 4
COURTESY PHOTO
Elaine Schmidtberger of Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park was the first recipient of the High School Counselor of the Year award. She was surprised in a ceremony on Feb. 6 at Miege. She has been at Miege for 42 years.
COURTESY PHOTO
Kathleen Feist of Holy Trinity School in Lenexa was the first recipient of the Elementary School Counselor of the Year award. Vince Cascone (left), superintendent of archdiocesan schools, and Lorenzo Rizzi, associate superintendent of student services, presented her with the award.
Educators honored during Catholic Schools Week
education teacher seemed to be a natural fit.
She grew up going to Catholic school and has been in one ever since. She has been at Holy Spirit for 33 years after spending the previous six at the former Christ the King in Kansas City, Kansas.
Like Schmidtberger, Jacobs has been able to see some of the children of people she taught years ago come through her school, and credited the people at Holy Spirit for making it feel like home for over three decades.
“I think it’s important to show them how important God is,” she said. “We start every class with a prayer and we talk about how Jesus would want us to be treating each other. While things can get competitive at times, it’s important for them to know that being kind and respectful is more important than winning and losing.”
“What truly sets Mrs. Jacobs apart is her unwavering commitment to the Catholic faith,” said Holy Spirit principal Dr. Maureen Huppe. “Her faith is not something she simply teaches — it is something she lives. She has been a constant presence at our school’s religious activities, and every weekend can be found offering her time and support to the Catholic Youth Organization, helping to foster a deeper spiritual connection for our students through athletics and community. Her role as a mentor and guide in both faith and fitness is one that has deeply impacted the lives of many.”
High School Teacher of the Year: SAMANTHA HENDRIX
St. James Academy is a 50-minute commute one way for Samantha Hendrix.
But that doesn’t deter her from
coming into work every day with a smile on her face.
“I have no desire to look elsewhere,” she said. “It’s a place where you are asked to be you, and they really try to use you in the best place for your talents.”
A member of the staff at St. James since 2008, Hendrix never envisioned working in computer science. Initially a math teacher, she was asked to start a program from scratch in 2016 and trusted the administration’s belief in her.
A few years later, she spearheaded the school’s new Spark Center for Academics.
“Starting both was scary,” she said. “I remember administration coming to me that first year and I didn’t know anything about computer science. But they believed in me, and I jumped right in and did my best. I still have those first couple of programs I made, and I can look back with pride about learning something new.”
“These were major career shifts with minimal resources or support available to help her,” said St. James principal Dr. Shane Rapp. “All she has done is help build one of the best and largest computer science programs in the area and establish our Spark Center as the flagship academic support program in our building.”
Hendrix, who also coaches swimming, appreciates the support that people show — not just for the staff inside the classroom, but for them as people outside of school.
She said her biggest goal that motivates her daily comes from a quote that Rapp shared during a recent assembly.
“Our principal said during an assembly, ‘Your attention is the greatest gift you can give,’ and that’s what I’m trying to be mindful of,” she said. “I want to give full attention to our students in front of us at the time so we can be the hands and feet of Jesus to our students.”
‘People like supporting other Catholics and small businesses’
>> Continued from page 1
Painting, include exterior painting, interior painting, decks, fences and stains. Around 75% of his business comes from Leaven readers.
It’s one of several local businesses that advertise regularly in the paper’s classifieds section.
Wrapped in memories
“I don’t do print advertising anywhere else except The Leaven,” said Lyn Heilman, a parishioner at Church of the Ascension in Overland Park and owner of Quilted Memories.
She started making T-shirt quilts in her home in 2005, and about half of her customers came from her ad in the paper.
“We worked out of the house until 2011 and moved to the first storefront, a little shop in downtown Overland Park,” said Heilman.
Now located off 87th Terr. and I-35 in Overland Park, her business makes custom quilts of all kinds. Most popular are T-shirt and memorial quilts, which are made from clothing of deceased loved ones.
“That’s the part of our business that I feel is our ministry,” said Heilman. “We work with a lot of grieving families.
“I feel like it’s the one area of our business that really touches people, comforts them, helps them keep those memories super close — like they can wrap up in them.
“They can cover up with them.”
Quilted Memories also sells quilt batting, thread and supplies to other quilters.
Much of its business comes from Leaven readers and word of mouth.
“There are times that we get five to 10 calls a week that say they’re from The Leaven,” said Heilman, “and we might go a month, and nobody specifically says they’re from The Leaven.
“But either way, I feel like that ad is supporting the paper, supporting the church.”
A reliable lift
Maria Koch and her husband Bill, parishioners at St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood and owners of KC Lift & Elevator, have advertised with The Leaven for years.
“Sometimes, people will tell us, ‘I’ve seen your ad in there for years and have been keeping it in case we ever needed it, and now we need it,’” said Koch.
The couple started their company 18 years ago.
“We help people stay in their homes
Contact these advertisers
KC Lift & Elevator kclift.com mkoch@kclift.com (913) 327-5557
Stone Painting stonepaintingkc.com stonepainting1@gmail.com (913) 963-6465
Quilted Memories quiltedmemoriesllc.com (913) 649-2704
by installing stair lifts, elevators and wheelchair lifts,” said Koch. “Sometimes, it’s an aging population. Sometimes, it’s somebody younger with some kind of a disability.”
KC Lift & Elevator also installs overhead patient lifts in ceilings to make it easier to move people from space to space.
“A lot of people want to stay in their homes,” said Koch. “They don’t want to move. A lot of people can’t afford to move.
“This makes it very easy for them to [stay].”
Utilizing a reliable source to generate
business has been key for KC Lift & Elevator.
“People know that you’re not going to let people keep advertising in there if you’ve had any complaints or if you’ve heard anything bad about the businesses,” she said.
“People like supporting other Catholics and small businesses,” she added. “I do think it makes a difference.”
Stone, who started his company during his 2021 spring semester while playing baseball at a small college in Madison, Wisconsin, has embraced the challenges and joys of starting his own business.
Advertising in The Leaven has allowed him to follow his dream of entrepreneurship.
“I’ve built some great friends from The Leaven,” he said. “And it’s taken me all over Kansas City. I cherish it.”
Heilman is also grateful for the readers she’s worked with over the years.
“Some people really need us to pray with them,” she said. “Some people are perfectly cool. And [for] other people, every garment has a story, and it’s emotional.
“I listen a lot.”
It’s a ministry she’s eager to provide.
“It’s just a fun experience sharing people’s life milestones with them through their quilts,” she said.
COURTESY PHOTO
St. James Academy teacher Samantha Hendrix (with flowers) was named the High School Teacher of the Year in the archdiocese. She is joined by, from left, Kirsten Wondra, associate superintendent of schools; Vince Cascone, superintendent of archdiocesan schools; and Lorenzo Rizzi, associate superintendent of student services.
PHOTO BY TAYLOR LOFTUS
Mary Jacobs, physical education teacher at Holy Spirit School in Overland Park, gets emotional as Vince Cascone names her the Elementary School Teacher of the Year.
WEEKLY SPECIALS
The following will have Lenten dinners on all the Fridays of Lent, except Good Friday:
St. Gregory Parish, Marysville, will host fish fries from 5 to 7 p.m. at the church hall, 1310 Carolina St. Carryouts are available. For in-town delivery, call (785) 562-7017. Proceeds go to St. Gregory School.
St. Pius X Parish, 5500 Woodson, Mission, will host simple soup suppers in the Glowacki Room beginning at 5:30 p.m. The cost is a freewill offering.
St. Michael the Archangel, 14251 Nall Ave., Leawood, will host Lenten dinners from 4:45 to 6:45 p.m. Carryouts are available. Menu includes smoked salmon, fried tilapia, fried shrimp, mac and cheese, wild rice and more. For more information, visit the website at: https://st michaelcp.org/fish-fry.
Queen of the Holy Rosary, 7035 W. 71st St., Overland Park, will host Lenten dinners from 5 to 7 p.m. Cost is: $15 for adults, and $8 for children under 12. Menu includes baked cod, shrimp, smoked salmon, cheese pizza (child’s plate), sides and dessert. Carryouts available.
Most Pure Heart of Mary, 1750 SW Stone Ave., Topeka, will host Lenten dinners from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Menu includes baked and fried fish, popcorn shrimp, mac and cheese, and more. Cost is: $12 for adults (11 and older); $5 for children (4-10); free for 3 and under; $40 household maximum. Carryouts are available.
Divine Mercy Parish, 555 W. Main St., Gardner, will host Lenten dinners (except for March 21) from 5 to 7 p.m. The cost is: $14 for adults (fish only), $17 (fish and shrimp); children ages 7-12 are half price; and children 6 and under are free. To-go orders are available. Call (913) 620-8476.
St. Joseph Parish, Nortonville, will host Lenten fish and shrimp dinners from 5 to 7 p.m. There will be fried and baked fish, fried shrimp, vegetables, salads and desserts. The cost is: $15 for adults; $5 for ages 4-10; free for children 3 and under. Carryouts are available.
St. Patrick Parish, 94th and State Ave., Kansas City, Kansas, will host fish dinners from 4:30 to 7 p.m. The cost is $15 - $16. Family price for two adults and two or more children under 12 is $40. Carryouts and drive-up service are available. Call (913) 515-0621 with questions.
Good Shepherd Parish, 12800 W. 75th St., Shawnee, will host fish fries from 5 to 7 p.m. The cost is $15 for adults (18 and over); $13 for seniors (65 and over); $8 for children (ages 6-12); $8 for children 5 and under; and $40 for families (parents with children 12 and under).
Corpus Christi Parish, 6001 Bob Billings Pkwy., Lawrence, will host Lenten dinners starting at 6:30 p.m. in the Father Jim Hall. There will be speakers on March 7, 14 and 28 during dinner. Stations of the Cross will begin at 6 p.m. in the church.
Sacred Heart Church, Topeka, will host fish and shrimp dinners from 4 to 7 p.m. in the church hall, 312 N.E. Freeman Ave. The cost is: $11 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. Carryouts are available by calling (785) 234-6727. Stations begin at 5:30 p.m.
Queen of the Holy Rosary, 22779 Metcalf, Bucyrus, will host Lenten dinners from 5:30 to 7 p.m. in the parish hall. The cost is: $12 for fish; $17 for shrimp. Children eat for $5. Carryouts are available. Cash only.
Mater Dei Parish, Topeka, will host Lenten dinners from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Mater Dei Event Center, 1114 S.W. 10th St. Menu includes cod fillets, baked tilapia and more. Carryouts are available.
Xavier School, 541 Muncie Rd., Leavenworth, will host fish fries from 5 to 7 p.m., sponsored by Knights of Columbus Council 900. Menu includes fried cod, baked tilapia, shrimp and more. The cost is: $14 for adults; $6 for children 6-12; free for ages 5 and younger. Carryouts are available.
Prince of Peace Parish, 16000 W. 143rd St., Olathe, will host all-you-careto-eat Lenten dinners from 5 to 7:30 p.m. There will be fish, shrimp, fish tacos and more. For more information, see the order form online at: popolathe.org/lent.
Shawnee Knights of Columbus Council 2332 will host Lenten dinners at 11221 Johnson Dr., Shawnee, beginning at 5 p.m. The cost is: $12 for fish; $18 for shrimp; and $20 for a combo. Kids pizza is $2 per slice. There are senior and kid discounts. Drive-thru and carryouts are available with purchase of tickets online at: www.kofc2332.org.
Sacred Heart Parish, 1100 West St., Tonganoxie, will host Lenten dinners from 4 to 6:30 p.m. The cost is: $10 for adults; $9 for seniors (60+); $3 for children ages 5-12. Spiced shrimp and fish dinners are March 21 and April 11 only. That cost is: $15 for adults; $14 for seniors; and $7 for children. Carryouts are available.
Holy Spirit Parish, 11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park, will host seafood dinners from 5 to 7 p.m. in St. Elizabeth’s Hall. Allyou-can-eat cost is: $20 for shrimp; $15 for fish; and $5 for children 4 to 10. Meal includes gumbo, cheese pizza, mac ’n’ cheese, potatoes and green bean casserole. Carryouts are available.
Curé of Ars Knights of Columbus, 9403 Mission Rd., Leawood, will host fish dinners from 5-7 p.m. in the school cafeteria (downstairs behind school). The cost is: $15 for fish; $8 for pizza. Children 5 and under eat free. Carryouts are available.
Church of the Nativity, 3800 W. 119th St., Leawood, will host Lenten dinners from 5 to 7:30 p.m. The cost is: $16 for adult fish; $7 for children ages 5 to 12; and free for ages 4 and under. The shrimp container is $18 for a large and $10 for a small. Carryouts and curbside pickup are available. For more information, go online to: KCFishFry.com.
DAILY DEALS
The following will have Lenten dinners on only certain Fridays of Lent. See the notice for specific dates.
St. Leo Parish, Horton, will host Lenten dinners from 5 to 7 p.m. on March 14 and 28 at the Catholic Center, 1340 1st Ave E. Carryouts are available.
The Sabetha/Fidelity Knights of Columbus will be hosting fish fries from 5 to 7 p.m. on March 28 and April 11 at the church hall, 1031 S. 12th St. Carryouts are available.
Christ the King Parish, 3024 N. 53rd St., Kansas City, Kansas, will host Lenten dinners from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on March 7 and April 4. Three fish tacos or chiles rellenos with sides, drink and dessert are $12. Cheese quesadilla with sides, drink and dessert is $10. Carryouts are available.
St. Patrick Church, 309 S. Sixth St., Osage City, will host a fish and shrimp dinner from 6 to 8 p.m. on April 4 in St. Brigid Hall (next to the church). The cost is $20 at the door or $18 in advance. Call (785) 219-7028 for more information or advance tickets.
Immaculate Conception Parish 208 W. Bertrand Ave., St. Marys, will host fish and shrimp dinners from 5 to 7 p.m. on March 7, March 21 and April 11. Carryouts are available. Delivery is available to St. Marys and Emmett. The cost is $12 for adults (ages 11 and older) and $6 for children (ages 10 and under).
Immaculate Conception Parish, 606 S. Elm, Louisburg, will host Lenten dinners from 5 to 7 p.m. on March 7, March 28, April 4 and 11. The menu includes all-you-can-eat fried and baked fish and more. The cost is $15 for adults and $7 for children ages 5-10. Carryouts are available.
Holy Angels Parish, Garnett, will be serving shrimp and fish dinners from 5 to 7:30 p.m. on March 7, March 21 and April 4 at the Garnett Knights Hall. The cost is: $13 for adults; $5 for children ages 5-12; the immediate family max is $50.
Annunciation Parish, Baldwin City, will host fish fries from 5 to 7 p.m. on March 5 and April 11.
St. Francis Parish, Lapeer, will host a fish fry from 5 to 7 p.m. on March 28.
Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, 216 N.E. Branner, Topeka, will host fish dinners from 4 to 7 p.m. on March 14, March 28 and April 11. The cost is $12 per person. Check and cash are accepted. Carryouts are available.
St. Dominic Parish, 416 Ohio Ave., Holton, will host Lenten dinners beginning at 5 p.m. on March 7, March 21 and April 4. The cost is a freewill donation. Carryouts are available.
St. Francis Xavier Parish, 301 E. James St., Mayetta, will host Lenten dinners beginning at 5 p.m. on March 14, March 28 and April 11. The cost is a freewill donation. Carryouts are available.
The Knights at St. Philip Neri Parish, Osawatomie, will host fish fries from 5 to 7 p.m. on March 7 and 21 in the church basement, 500 Parker Ave., Osawatomie. Carryouts and delivery are available.
The Knights at Sacred Heart Parish, Mound City, will host a fish fry from 4:30 to 7 p.m. on April 11 in the parish hall, 727 W. Main St. Carryouts are available.
The Holy Trinity, Lenexa, Knights of Columbus will host an all-you-caneat shrimp dinner from 5:30-8:30 p.m. on April 11 in the parish center, 13600 W. 92nd St. Carryouts are available. For details, go online to: htknights.org, or call Ed at (913) 207-7791, or Calvin at (913) 207-3794.
The Kelly Knights of Columbus will host a fish fry in the St. Bede Parish hall in Kelly from 5 to 7:30 p.m. on March 14. The cost is a freewill offering.
St. John’s Catholic Club, 414 Barnett, Kansas City, Kansas, will host jumbo shrimp dinners at 5:30 p.m. on March 14 and April 4 in the gym, 414 Barnett, Kansas City, Kansas. The cost is $20. RSVP by calling the club at (913) 371-9690.
St. Joseph Church, 8th St. and Spring Garden, Atchison, will host a shrimp boil from 4:30 to 7 p.m. on March 28. Pizza is also available. The cost is $15 for adults and $7 for children ages 7-12. Carryouts are available.
St. Benedict School, 201 Unity St., Atchison, will host a fish fry from 5 to 7 p.m. on April 4. Pizza is also available. The cost is $15 for adults and $7 for children ages 7 and under. Carryouts are available. Credit cards are accepted.
Our Lady of Unity Parish, Kansas City, Kansas, will have a fish and shrimp dinner from 4:30 to 7 p.m. on March 25 at St. John the Evangelist Church, 2910 Strong Ave., Kansas City, Kansas. The cost is $15 for a large plate and $10 for a small plate. Carryouts are available.
St. Theresa Parish, 310 Oak St., Perry, will have a fish fry from 4 to 7 p.m. on April 11. The cost is $10. Carryouts are available.
Scripture study invites us to accept God’s will in our life
By Amy Reinhardt Special to The Leaven
OVERLAND PARK — March
5 marks the day when thousands of Catholics throughout the archdiocese will be marked by ashes and begin their Lenten sacrifices.
Just as Advent prepares hearts for Christ’s birth, Lent prepares hearts for Christ’s passion and resurrection.
To make the most of the Lenten season, Deacon Tim McEvoy at Holy Cross Parish in Overland Park recommends Catholics give Scripture study a try.
Scripture study all starts with the passage. And the one he would choose for Lent, Deacon McEvoy said, is the Agony in the Garden from Luke 22:3946.
The passage reads: “Then going out he went, as was his custom, to the Mount of Olives, and the disciples followed him. When he arrived at the place, he said to them, ‘Pray that you may not undergo the test.’ After withdrawing a stone’s throw from them and kneeling, he prayed, saying, ‘Father, if you are willing, take this cup away from me; still, not my will but yours be done.’ And to strengthen him, an angel from heaven appeared to him. He was in such agony and he prayed so fervently that his sweat became like drops of blood falling on the ground. When he rose from prayer and returned to his disciples, he found them sleeping from grief. He said to them, ‘Why are you sleeping? Get up and pray that you may not undergo the test.’”
In studying a passage like this, Deacon McEvoy said, the first important thing to remember is to read it prayerfully. Reading the verses more than once can prompt greater insight and understanding. In fact, each read-through may spark a new interpretation.
“I read it, ponder it, pray about it and then I be quiet to see what God tells me about my life,” said Deacon McEvoy.
This method is referred to as “lectio divina,” which is Latin for “divine reading.” The purpose of this western Christian practice is to read, reflect and pray the Bible in a way that draws one closer
to God.
The reader must read slowly, focus on key verses and/or images, and take time to absorb the details before going back and reading the passage a second time. Embracing the silence afterward opens one’s heart to anything God would like to say.
The verse that struck Deacon McEvoy
the most from the Agony in the Garden passage is when Jesus says, “Father, if you are willing, take this cup away from me; still, not my will but yours be done.”
Jesus did not want to be crucified, Deacon McEvoy explains. He spent time in prayer, begging God to spare him from this horrific way of dying. The passage represents Jesus’ humanity, because like any human being, he did not want to endure physical suffering.
“Agony” in Greek translates to “struggle, or wrestling match.” Jesus experiences tremendous struggle in the Garden of Gethsemane. Deacon McEvoy said reading the Agony in the Garden several times allows us to reflect on our own struggles.
“This is one of the secrets of living the Christian life,” said Deacon McEvoy. “You can beg that you might be spared from suffering, but in the end, you must always say, ‘Not my will but yours be done.’”
Although Jesus prayed for the cup to pass, he also trusted and loved his Father enough to accept and obey his will.
“There were times in my life when I either wanted or didn’t want something really bad. I’d pray, ‘God, do it my way, do it my way,’ but I knew I had to end my
prayers with, ‘But not my will but yours be done,’” said Deacon McEvoy. He also shared how repeating this phrase changed his outlook and strengthened his relationship with God.
“It became easier for me to accept whatever came into my life because I’d submitted to God’s will, ” he said.
Deacon McEvoy also explained how Lent can really be understood in two parts. The first few weeks are dedicated to our personal reform and changing our lives through penance. The second part is the final two weeks of Lent, referred to as Passiontide. These 14 days are for remembering Jesus’ suffering.
Willingly accepting God’s will and drawing nearer to him is the focus of the upcoming liturgical season. Selecting a penance is a great strategy. The key is sacrificing a vice that distracts one from being a better disciple.
Deacon McEvoy reminds us that it is not about perfectly giving up something, like desserts, screen time or alcohol. What we really should be seeking during Lent is God’s will. What does Our Lord want us to sacrifice for him?
“The goal has to be — in the end — that we love Jesus more, and that we’re growing closer to Jesus during these 40 days,” Deacon McEvoy concluded.
THE LEAVEN/ADOBE STOCK PHOTO
The fresco above features Jesus at prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane in the Dreifaltigkeitskirche, a Protestant church in Germany.
PHOTO BY AMY REINHARDT
Deacon Tim McEvoy at Holy Cross Parish in Overland Park explains how Scripture study can enrich your Lenten experience.
Benedictine Sisters urge pathway to citizenship for immigrants
As Atchison Benedictine Sisters, we endorse the following Conference on Benedictine Prioresses statement regarding immigration:
In the spirit of the Gospel and the inspiration of St. Benedict we, as members of the Conference of Benedictine Prioresses (CBP), representing more than 1100 sisters, commit ourselves to Christlike hospitality. Therefore, we call upon our leaders, especially governors, state legislators, members of the U.S. Congress and our president to reconsider proposed immigration policies and to work towards solutions that uphold the dignity and rights of all people. We urge them to create pathways to citizenship for immigrants, provide humane treatment for those in detention and ensure that immigrant families are not torn apart. In addition, we commit ourselves to work with other organizations who are advocating and caring for migrant peoples.
As Benedictine Sisters, we are inspired by the life and teachings of St. Benedict. In the sixth century time when he lived, travelers and pilgrims were often met with violence on the road and sought refuge in his monasteries. Benedict was inspired by the Gospel of Jesus Christ to receive all who came seeking refuge. He modeled his life on that of Christ who received the poor, the lame, the
outcast and the stranger.
St. Benedict quoted Jesus who said, “I was a stranger, and you welcomed me” (Mt 25:35). For centuries, men and
women have continued to be inspired by St. Benedict’s example of Christ-like hospitality and his teaching that all people who present themselves are to
be received as Christ. May we and all people, in our time, do the same.
OSV NEWS PHOTO/REBECCA NOBLE, REUTERS
A migrant from Mexico’s Chiapas state looks through his family’s immigration paperwork at Casa Alitas in Tucson, Arizona, March 15, 2024.
Meet the voice behind The Leaven
By Amy Reinhardt Special to The Leaven
OVERLAND PARK — Many assume the only way to enjoy The Leaven is reading it, but that is not true. An online resource allows one to listen to the 16 pages being read aloud by a single voice.
That voice belongs to Dee Dee Eccles, a longtime Holy Cross, Overland Park, parishioner. Eccles has been the designated reader for The Leaven for over seven years.
AudioReader is the studio where she records herself reading the Catholic newspaper. It is located on the University of Kansas campus in Lawrence.
Eccles is one of over 200 volunteers who record for Audio-Reader, a nonprofit organization founded in 1971. The content includes newspapers, books, magazines and special requests, like The Leaven.
The goal of Audio-Reader is keeping its thousands of listeners connected, entertained and informed through the gift of sound. The organization serves Kansas and western Missouri.
Eccles’ background centers on teaching. She taught for 10 years in Wichita before marrying and moving to Overland
Find out more
If you’d like to learn more about Audio-Reader, visit the website at: reader.ku.edu. To listen to the latest issue of The Leaven, go online to: the leaven.org and scroll to the bottom of the page.
Park in 1987.
In the following years, she adopted her two sons and transitioned to being a stay-at-home mom. But teaching always remained in the picture.
“That’s what I always wanted to do. From the time I was little, I played school,” she said.
As her kids got older and she was needed less at home, Eccles began seeking new activities to fill her extra time.
Since she had no prior knowledge of Audio-Reader, it was providential when she learned about it through a feature article in The Leaven.
“Gosh, I love to read,” Eccles thought. “I could probably do that.”
The opportunity intrigued her. She had no idea someone recorded The Leaven each week for those unable to read printed material. It was her love of Catholicism and reading that prompted her to reach out.
“I almost didn’t go to my interview. I nearly turned back on my drive to Lawrence,” Eccles admitted, “But then I told myself, ‘Let’s broaden my horizons. Let’s do something different.’”
All Audio-Reader volunteers must
pass an audition. They are judged on pronunciation and enunciation, emphasis, pace and phrasing, professionalism and voice quality.
Eccles passed her audition with flying colors. It was then time to choose what she’d read. They presented her with a choice between a hunting and fishing magazine or the same Catholic newspaper where she’d learned about AudioReader in the first place. It was an obvious choice.
Eccles has flexibility to record in her home or at the Lawrence-based studio. She prefers the studio because she can focus more easily with fewer distractions.
She records The Leaven within a two-hour window. She sits at a desk in a small room and uses a microphone, two computer monitors, headphones and a keypad to complete the job.
There is an enlarged version of The Leaven on one monitor and recording details on the other. Eccles records the newspaper in 59-minute segments.
Since Audio-Reader uses humans rather than artificial intelligence, mistakes will happen. Using her keypad, Eccles can pause, rewind and correct any words she mispronounces.
“The Latin and Spanish words can be tough,” she noted. “Sometimes, I’ll need to look up a word on my phone to make sure I say it correctly on the recording.”
Not only does Eccles read the type, she also describes the pictures. She verbally illustrates every detail, from clothing to objects.
Most listeners who tune into AudioReader were not born blind. They lost
their sight later in life from disease or cognitive-related issues.
Even though she was raised Catholic, Eccles says reading The Leaven has strengthened her faith life.
“It makes me more aware of my religion on a weekly basis,” she said. “When I read, I gain a lot of knowledge and history about the Catholic Church.”
From feature articles to news updates to the columnists, Eccles says it’s worth reading the entire newspaper, rather than skimming or only looking at the photos.
“I used to do the same thing before I began recording it,” Eccles said. “But you can really get a lot of information if you read it all. Give it a try.”
Eccles shares with others about her involvement with The Leaven. Most people are surprised to hear about this resource.
“What I do is rewarding,” she said, “and I tell people this is a service that is a free to everyone.”
Outside of her commitment to AudioReader, Eccles belongs to the St. Teresa Circle at Holy Cross and visits Villa St. Francis in Olathe monthly to host bingo.
She’s also volunteered with Junior Achievement for over 20 years. It keeps her connected to her teaching roots and passion for supporting young students.
Being the voice of The Leaven is an honor that Eccles does not take for granted. These recordings have become a staple in her routine, and she doesn’t plan to stop any time soon.
“It’s an easy way to be of service,” she said, “and I truly enjoy the reading experience.”
LEAVEN PHOTO BY AMY REINHARDT
Dee Dee Eccles, a longtime member of Holy Cross Parish in Overland Park, has been the designated reader for The Leaven for Audio-Reader for over seven years. Audio-Reader is a nonprofit organization founded in 1971. The content includes newspapers, books, magazines and special requests, like The Leaven.
Social media extends the reach of The Leaven
Senior reporter doubles as digital content manager
By Catherine Halbmaier
Special to The Leaven
KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Journalism is a constantly evolving industry. To keep up with changing times, a news organization must adapt. Survival depends on it.
The 24-hour news cycle and social media are perhaps the biggest changes journalists have faced in recent years. For The Leaven, making stories accessible on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X is a priority that fosters connection with readers.
“We have so many terrific parishes, schools, hospitals and people in our archdiocese, and I truly enjoy seeing the good news about all of them,” said Mary Gomez, a reader from Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe. “The Leaven tells wonderful stories with great pictures! The Leaven helps all of us to learn more about Jesus and our faith.”
Al Funk, a parishioner at St. Joseph Parish in Nortonville, echoed this sentiment.
“A large majority of people get their news and updates on local and world events from social media,” Funk said. “I appreciate keeping informed with this tool as well. . . . By using Facebook, I can keep up with daily events from friends I trust, such as The Leaven.”
A single person is primarily responsible for the introduction of social media to The Leaven’s offerings. Moira Cullings, senior reporter and digital content manager, began her work for The Leaven straight out of college.
“I started in 2015, when social media had really taken off,” Cullings said. “It seemed pivotal because that’s where so many people were spending their time. Print is obviously the main attraction, but we have so much more to share that can’t be said in print.
“Our photographers capture hundreds of photos, and we only end up printing a few. But we can post more to social media, and that can give people an even greater glimpse into an event.”
Cullings strives to showcase the visual side of every story, complementing rather than substituting the print edition.
“We want to share the full story with our community,” she said.
Managing multiple social media platforms with very little precedent was a daunting task, but Cullings rose to the occasion.
“It was mostly trial and error,” she said. “It still is with social media, just because it’s changing all the time. I want produce content that will make people want to engage with our message.”
Even with a strategy, the results are often unpredictable on social media.
“There are some posts that I think will do really well and they don’t, then there are some that go viral,” Cullings continued. “Social media can surprise you. You can try to have a strategy, but we’re not selling anything. We just want to connect with our readers and share the beauty of what’s going on in the archdiocese.”
Because of Cullings, The Leaven’s social media reach has grown substantially since September of 2015.
“At the beginning, we had a few
OUR CATHOLIC COMMUNITY IS REALLY SPECIAL. BEING PART OF WHAT HOLDS PEOPLE TOGETHER IS REALLY EXCITING. PRINT IS THE BEST WAY TO DO THAT DIRECTLY IN PEOPLE’S HOMES, BUT SOCIAL MEDIA IS AN EXTENSION OF THAT.
MOIRA CULLINGS
LEAVEN SENIOR REPORTER AND DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER
hundred followers,” she said. “With all organic, slow growth, now we reach hundreds of thousands of people every month. I’d really like to continue growing.”
As it stands, Cullings is most proud of the engagement fostered with followers.
“I keep track of follower count,” she said, “but I really want people to be reacting and commenting. That can give us a more personal relationship with readers and help us understand what they’re interested in seeing.”
Engagement and community are the pillars of Cullings’ strategy. For each platform, that looks slightly different.
“Facebook is biggest — most of our readers are there and it’s a good outlet to share everything,” she explained.
“Instagram is great for pictures and stories, quick snapshots of what’s going on, especially for young people. And LinkedIn and X work for sharing articles — a lot of people get news there.”
Not only is social media a great complement to the Leaven’s print edition and website, but it can come in handy when breaking news sweeps the archdiocese.
“Being a weekly paper, social media is a great tool for that,” said Cullings.
“Typically, if it’s a piece of breaking news, we’d post about it right away and then refer people to our next issue where we’d go into further depth.”
THE LEAVEN ON FACEBOOK
Followers: 11,750+ Views: 340,000 Last 28 days: Reach: 64,000 Content interactions: 11,800
Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann expressed the importance of an online and print presence for a diocesan news publication.
“I think you need to do both things,” he said. “It’s not an either-or.”
The digital offerings help the print product with its mission.
“The Leaven helps us educate people in the faith, which is a big, important
thing,” said the archbishop. “It helps us evangelize people that maybe aren’t real active or zealous in the faith.
“And it helps them to know about other parishes in the diocese. And so, it makes them more of a diocesan community than just the parish.”
Cullings treasures the opportunity to bring people together through The Leaven.
“Our Catholic community is really special,” she said. “There’s such a wide range of people — whether they’re on farms or in an urban setting, all ages, people working all sorts of jobs — but we have our faith in common. Being part of what holds people together is really exciting. Print is the best way to do that directly in people’s homes, but social media is an extension of that.”
“I hope [our readers will] follow us on social media,” she added. “We have a lot to offer people — not only to keep them connected with what’s happening, but also to inspire them and give opportunities to grow in faith and live that out by helping others.
“I really enjoy being able to engage with our community, and it means a lot to have the support of readers in print and online.”
Follow The Leaven on social media to see stories, photos, videos and additional content unique to the archdiocese at @theleavenkc.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Moira Cullings, senior reporter and digital content manager of The Leaven, oversees all of The Leaven’s social media offerings.
The Leaven’s social media offerings include more photos of events than the physical newspaper allows.
Amid darkness of Ukraine war, religious Sisters bring hope
By Katarzyna Szalajko OSV News
WARSAW, Poland (OSV News) — As the full-scale Russian invasion in Ukraine reached a tragic threshold of three years Feb. 24, religious Sisters are bringing rays of sunshine to those who don’t know how to smile anymore, including children whose carefree childhood disappeared, and farmers, whose fields are mined and useless.
Sister Victoria Andruschina of the Congregation of the Sisters of the Angels didn’t leave the country when the war broke out, even though she was ordered to evacuate.
“I cried and asked my superiors to let me stay,” said Sister Victoria. “I felt that I was needed most here. With those children who stayed. I thank God and my superiors for letting me stay.”
The plainclothes congregation of the Sisters of the Angels was founded in 1889, when the church was persecuted by the Russian czar.
Before the war, Sister Victoria worked in a kindergarten. When the Russian invasion began, she decided to continue helping children — those who need it most in the reality of war. With a group of lay volunteers from the Christian Rescue Service, she travels from village to village in eastern Ukraine, right on the front line, and organizes programs for children. The initiative is called “Angels of Joy.” The purpose is simple — make them smile again.
“We never know if we’ll be able to run a program,” said Sister Victoria, “and we never know if we’ll be able to return. Being a volunteer in the war is not just about getting out of one’s comfort zone, it’s about risking one’s life.”
Games, contests and music — which sometimes don’t drown out the war blasts — are part of the events, along with gifts and candy. “Angels bring joy to children and hope to their parents,” Sister Victoria told OSV News.
“It’s a ray of light in the darkness in which they live,” she added.
“These people have lived through terrible things. Our initiatives are sometimes the first opportunity to meet in such a large group. Children don’t go to school, they sit in their homes — or what’s left of them — because even being in the yard is dangerous. They have no contact with others,” Sister Victoria said.
Sister Victoria Andruschina of the Congregation of the Sisters of the Angels is seen in an undated photo with Ukrainian children during the “Angels of Joy” initiative that aims to bring smiles and return a piece of childhood to children living close to the front line. She didn’t leave the country when the war broke out, even though she was ordered to evacuate.
“It is very difficult to organize these meetings, because children do not have natural childlike reactions, they are frightened, full of sadness, afraid of people, sounds, afraid to play. It’s as if they are afraid to be children,” continued Sister Victoria.
“The transformation we see during our program is amazing,” she added. “The children slowly become emboldened, relaxed, participate in play. . . . They smile — sometimes for the first time in a very long time. There is no greater reward for this effort than a child’s smile. This is the greatest reward. The risk is worth it.”
And the risk is a fact. Sister Victoria
but our goal is to conduct the meeting with them in such a way that at the end they say — praise the Lord that my child smiled,” Sister Victoria told OSV News.
“They are the ones who ask us who we are and who is behind us. They ask: ‘Who is crazy enough to risk his own life just to make children happy?’ And when they ask, I answer, ‘God is my strength, and if it weren’t for him, I wouldn’t be here.’ And this is our evangelization. It is more difficult than words,” said Sister Victoria.
For these three years of the war, the “Angels of Joy” brought smiles to more than 20,000 Ukrainian children. The campaign exists solely thanks to the support of sponsors — Catholic organizations and individuals.
Polish Orionine Sister Renata Jurczak has been in Ukraine for 30 years. In the beginning, she helped the homeless and street children. Now she works at a single mothers’ home, in Korotych near Kharkiv, and organizes classes for children to help them cope with the trauma of war.
“These children know everything — which bomb is flying in which direction, from which weapon it is released, who is shooting — our boys or soldiers from the other side. They are like adult kids. Childhood escapes them,” she told OSV News.
She and her fellow Sister also go to ruined frontline villages where some of the residents have returned.
“Every morning those people go out in front of the house and look at what is around,” Sister Renata said.
What they see is agricultural areas of which the region consists of demolished, burned and lifeless. Everything is mined, the land cannot be cultivated.
“And when they cannot seed their fields, they have lost their purpose,” Sister Renata added.
told OSV News that she is aware that any trip close to the front lines could be the last.
“Am I afraid? Yes,” she said, adding, “Not so much of death, because it means eternal life, but disability, the fact that I will no longer be able to help others. I also feel a great responsibility for the volunteers who are going with me. This is my initiative, so I carry the burden of responsibility.”
“Angels of Joy” is not a typical event with a purpose to evangelize. But a testimony of faith is omnipresent.
“We don’t tell people directly that God loves them, we don’t quote the Scripture,
The Sisters came up with an idea on how to restore that purpose to them. “The chicken campaign” was created.
“We buy small, one-day-old chickens, food for the entire rearing period and take them to families who can raise them,” Sister Renata told OSV News. “We weren’t sure of how this campaign would come out, these people were so resigned, but the effects surprised us. People on the verge of depression cried with emotion that they had found an occupation and a new reason to live. We realized that this is what these people needed.”
OSV NEWS PHOTO/COURTESY SISTER VICTORIA ANDRUSCHINA
Pope in ‘critical,’ but ‘stable’ condition
By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Francis’ “clinical condition remains critical but stable” and the “prognosis remains guarded,” the Vatican’s evening bulletin said Feb. 25.
The 88-year-old pope, who has been in Rome’s Gemelli hospital since Feb. 14, has had no recurrence of “acute respiratory episodes,” the Vatican said.
The “hemodynamic parameters” that measure heart health “continue to be stable,” the bulletin said.
In the evening, Pope Francis underwent the third CT scan of his hospitalization to monitor his double pneumonia, it said.
A source said the results of the CT scan were not expected until the next day and specified that the pope’s “stable” condition included the “mild renal insufficiency” that the pope’s doctors had reported Feb. 23 but that they said was “under control” by the next evening.
“In the morning, after receiving the Eucharist, the pope ` `resumed work,” the bulletin also said.
In a sign affirming that Pope Francis has been able to work while in the hospital, the Vatican said earlier Feb. 25 that the pope had signed several decrees regarding sainthood causes the previous day during a meeting at the hospital with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican secretary of state, and with Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra, substitute secretary of state.
The announcement followed a typically brief morning update on the health of the 88-year-old pope, which said, “The pope rested well, all night.”
Hours after visiting Pope Francis in the hospital, Cardinal Parolin led the recitation of the rosary in St. Peter’s Square, praying for the pope and his health. Some two dozen cardinals joined the nighttime prayer, along with officials of the Roman Curia and hundreds of Catholics from Rome and around the world.
Faithful pray for pope’s health at St. Peter’s
By Carol Glatz Catholic News Service
VATICAN CITY (CNS) —
A light drizzle finally let up as hundreds of faithful headed to St. Peter’s Square to pray the rosary for Pope Francis on the 11th day of his hospitalization for double pneumonia.
The wet black cobblestones shone from the bright lights illuminating the fountains and the front of the square where Pope Francis normally sits for his Wednesday general audiences. An image of Mater Ecclesiae (Mary, Mother of the Church)
Join Catholics around the world as they pray the rosary for the recovery of Pope Francis every day at 2 p.m. (CST)
— adorned with greenery and white and pink flowers — took center stage.
About 27 cardinals living in Rome and dozens of members of the Roman Curia sat to the side as Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican secretary of state, knelt before the image, leading a recitation of the rosary Feb. 24 at 9 p.m.
He first greeted those gathered by saying, “For 2,000 years Christians have been praying for the pope when in danger or infirm.”
“Since the Holy Father Francis has been hospitalized at Gemelli hospital, intense prayer has been raised to the Lord by individual faithful and Christian communities around the world,” he said. Starting with this evening, “we also want to join in this prayer publicly here in his home with the recitation of the holy rosary.”
Entrusting the 88-year-old pope “to the powerful intercession of most holy Mary,” the cardinal said, “may she, our caring mother, sustain him in this time of illness and trial, and help him to recover his health soon.”
Among the many Vatican officials was Korean Cardinal Lazarus You Heung-sik, prefect of the Dicastery for Clergy. He told reporters before the event that the moment of prayer was important because “you always
pray for those who are not well.”
“The pope belongs to all of us,” he said, adding that even those who could not be in Rome were also praying at the same time. “In Korea, where it is eight hours ahead, they are praying with us.”
Father Antonio Tunecas, a priest from Angola studying in Rome, told Catholic News Service that the prayer service was a way “to be a family of the universal church, united with Pope Francis, united in prayer,” asking God, “in his goodness, to offer good health” to the pope and that “his will be done.”
Brothers Gregory Metz and John Frain, members of the Legionaries of Christ studying in Rome from Atlanta, also attended the event.
Brother Gregory told CNS it was a moment to show their closeness to the pope.
Pope Francis has been important for their growth and formation, Brother John said, helping him “get out of that American bubble” and to see things in different ways.
“He’s definitely been an opener of the heart to all people, to dialogue and to new ideas with an attitude of humility,” Brother Gregory said. “He’s been our father. Though no father is perfect, he taught me to grow in love
of neighbor.”
More than 50 Catholics from Wisconsin were in Rome for their Holy Year pilgrimage and they had been looking forward to seeing the pope at his Feb. 26 general audience, which has been canceled. Father Jordan Berghouse was leading the group from the parishes of St. James, St. Peter and St. Theresa.
“It’s really sad. We were hoping to see him in person,” Theresa Quedroro told CNS. “He is peace, love and joy.”
The group has been following their busy itinerary nonetheless and they have been praying the rosary each day wherever they are: “on a bus, in a church, at the hotel” and on other nights in St. Peter’s Square.
Sara Schmitz, Kellen Otte and Aliana Perez were in Rome as part of a study abroad program with the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota.
They had only been in Rome two weeks, and they said they loved hearing so many languages being spoken among the crowd and being part of such a big event in the heart of the universal church.
“It’s really cool to come all together and to pray for the pope,” Schmitz said.
Kansas military chaplain declared ‘Venerable’
By Gina Christian OSV News
WICHITA (OSV News)
— A Kansas military chaplain who served during two wars is a step further along the path to possible sainthood, thanks to a declaration made by Pope Francis, currently in Rome’s Gemelli hospital for severe respiratory illness.
On Feb. 24, the pope authorized the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Causes of Saints to promulgate a decree naming Father Emil J. Kapaun as “Venerable.”
Ordained in 1940 as a priest of the Diocese of Wichita, Father Kapaun served as a U.S. Army chaplain in World War II and in the Korean War with the rank of captain.
The priest’s tireless ministry, marked by constant danger to his life,
culminated in a prisoner of war camp at Pyoktong, North Korea, where he blessed his communist captors before dying of pneumonia and a blood clot in 1951 at age 35. His cause for canonization was opened in 1993, giving him the title “Servant of God.”
Bishop Carl A. Kemme of Wichita said in a statement that he joined “indeed every one of faith in giving thanks that Pope Francis has advanced his (Father Kapaun’s) cause by declaring him to be Venerable.”
“I encourage everyone to continue to pray for his intercession in every situation so that many more graces and divine favors will be received because of his powerful prayers. Venerable Emil Kapaun, pray for us!” said the bishop.
Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio of the U.S. Archdiocese for the Military Services, who is president of the U.S.
Conference of Catholic Bishops, said that “it was a great joy to read the news this morning of the approval by the Bishop of Rome that Father Kapaun indeed sacrificed his life here in order to give life to others.
“At the archdiocese we are looking forward to the next steps in this process to offer another witness of faith for the church universal,” said Archbishop Broglio.
Distinct from the criteria for martyrdom and heroic virtue, the “offering of life” (“oblatio vitae”) represents a voluntary sacrifice of one’s life in the face of certain, untimely death, accompanied by the exercise of Christian virtues unto death. In his document issued “motu proprio,” Pope Francis described the offering as “inspired and sustained by charity” and expressing “a true, complete and exemplary imitation of Christ.”
Father Kapaun died on May 23, 1951. The 2021 return of his remains to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Wichita capped a sequence of seemingly providential events. His body was buried by a fellow prisoner near the Pyoktong prison camp infirmary. It was repatriated to the United States, along with the remains of some 560 Americans from the camp, in 1954 at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu. However, the priest’s body — which for years lay under an “Unknown” marker with about 70 soldiers — was not identified until a fellow prisoner saw a picture of Father Kapaun in a Knights of Columbus magazine at a Veteran Affairs clinic in Florida in 2003. In 2021, DNA testing confirmed that the remains were those of Father Kapaun, and in September 2021, he was reinterred in Wichita’s cathedral.
CNS PHOTO/PABLO ESPARZA
People join Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican secretary of state, in reciting the rosary for Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican Feb. 24. Cardinals living in Rome, leaders of the Roman Curia and the faithful joined the nighttime prayer.
EMPLOYMENT
Executive director - The Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas (CFNEK) is seeking to hire an executive director. The executive director works closely with the board of directors of the CFNEK, lay and pastoral leaders, and CFNEK staff to support the mission of the CFNEK. This position is full time and benefits eligible. For more details or to apply, please visit “Employment Opportunities” at: www.archkck.org.
Human Resources administrative assistant - The chancery office of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas seeks to fill an HR administrative assistant position. The job plays a central role supporting the HR team, is full time based on 40 hours per week and benefits eligible, with a flexible schedule. This position is on-site in the chancery office. Please visit “Employment Opportunities” on the archdiocesan website at: www.archkck.org.
Principal - St. Andrew the Apostle School, Gladstone, Missouri, is seeking an elementary school principal to administer and provide student instruction in a preschool through 8th grade Catholic school. This position will supervise teaching, administrative and support staff, and oversee a range of programs and services. This is a full-time position working 40 hours per week. Loan officer position - Exchange Bank & Trust, Atchison, is seeking a full-time loan officer to join our team. As a loan officer, you will be responsible for evaluating loan applications, determining creditworthiness and making loan decisions. You will also be responsible for building and maintaining relationships with clients and provide exceptional customer service. The primary markets served include Atchison, Leavenworth and Doniphan counties in Kansas and Buchanan and Platte counties in Missouri. Qualifications include bachelor’s degree in finance, business or a related field. Prefer at least two years’ experience in the banking industry. Benefits include competitive compensation, generous bonus potential, health insurance, 401(k) and profit sharing. Salary will be based on experience. For more information or to apply, email resume to: bhawk@ebt.bank.
Assistant girls softball coach - Bishop Miege High School is seeking an assistant girls softball coach for the 2025 spring season. Contact Joe Schramp, athletic director, at: jschramp@bishopmiege.com or (913) 2225802.
Staff job openings - Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, a Catholic college offering higher education for those who may not otherwise be served, has the following staff job openings available — financial aid director, director of nursing, human resources generalist, and director of development. Find job descriptions and details at: www.donnelly.edu/careers.
Technician Needed ASAP - Do you like to tinker? Are you detail-oriented? Then this is the job for you! A locally owned family business is currently seeking candidates to provide preventive maintenance (cleaning) and repair service on microscopes. No previous experience necessary, on-the-job training provided. Good communication, time management and customer service skills necessary. Expenses paid, out in the field majority of time and each day is different! Some travel is required. Please contact us at: techneeded23@gmail.com.
Executive director - L’Arche Heartland is seeking a compassionate and visionary executive director to lead our community dedicated to adults with disabilities. The ideal candidate will have a bachelor’s degree and caregiving experience, with a passion for fostering inclusive communities. This role requires strong leadership and organizational and relationship-building skills to support our mission of belonging and shared life. To learn more or apply, email: james@larcheks.org.
Teachers - St. Joseph Early Education Center is seeking passionate and dedicated teachers to join our team. The ideal candidate should have experience working with early childhood children and possess a strong background in child welfare, education, development and be enthusiastic about creating a nurturing learning environment for young learners. Interested individuals should apply on St. Joseph website or email/call Kristan Mora at: KMora@stjoeshawnee. org; (913) 631-0004.
Full-time maintenance/custodian - St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee is looking for a full-time maintenance/custodian staff member. Qualified applicants will primarily work in a school and early education environment. Applicants must have similar work history, references, dependable transportation, be Virtus-trained or attend a Virtus training, and participate in a background check. Interested applicants should apply on St. Joseph website or email/call Richard Williams at: RWilliams@stjoeshawnee.org; (913) 200-2639.
Full-time operator and full-time laborer - Midwest Milling Services, Inc., is a road construction company specializing in asphalt milling of roads and parking lots mostly in the Kansas City metro area. We are looking for a full-time operator as well as a full-time laborer for the upcoming season. If you are interested, please contact Mike Lyons at (913) 208-3022.
Part-time facilities maintenance - Church of the Ascension in Overland Park is seeking applicants for a part-time (25 hours per week) facilities maintenance position. Applicants should possess basic mechanical skills: carpentry, painting, plumbing repair, etc. The role assists the facilities director in addressing daily facility needs, repairs and upgrades. Applicants are required to pass a background check, complete safe environment training and be able to do heavy lifting. Ideal opportunity for a craftsman who is looking to work 4 - 5 hours per day, M - F. Interested individuals should send contact information along with a list of past work experience to Lisa Donart at the parish office at: Idonart@ kcascension.org.
Catholic foreign missionary - Does your heart burn to share the good news of God’s love with others? Has your life been radically changed by encountering Jesus in his beloved poor? For nearly 30 years, Family Missions Company has helped form and send over 1,000 missionaries across the globe to preach the Gospel, serve the poor and make disciples. We are authentically Catholic, lay families and singles willing to follow the Holy Spirit wherever he leads. The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few. If God is stirring your heart, please contact us today to start a conversation. Jonathan Oakes - cell: (913) 725-0220; email: jon@ familymissionscompany.com.
Catholic elementary school principal - St. Matthew School in Topeka is seeking a dynamic and visionary leader with a passion for Catholic education. The principal will continue the school’s tradition of forming disciples, pursuing academic excellence and spiritual growth. The principal will lead by example and inspire a team of dedicated faculty and staff. Applicants must have or be eligible for Kansas licensure in educational leadership. We also prefer that the candidate be fluent in both Spanish and English. Apply online at: archkckcs.org/apply. For more information, contact Father John Torrez at: jtorrez@archkck.org.
Caregivers needed - Daughter & Company is looking for compassionate caregivers to provide assistance to seniors in their home, assisted living or in a skilled nursing facility. We provide sitter services, light housekeeping and light meal preparation, organizational assistance, care management and occasional transportation for our clients. We need caregivers with reliable transportation and a cellphone for communication. We typically employ on a part-time basis, but will strive to match hours desired. Contact Gary or Laurie at (913) 341-2500 if you want to become part of an excellent caregiving team.
Administrative assistant - Come join our team! A small family-owned company located in Lenexa is looking for an assistant to answer phones; invoicing; product ordering; some shipping/receiving and to assist the owner. We need a team member who is organized; detail oriented; self-motivated; trustworthy; has a positive attitude and above all else, gives excellent customer service. Schedule flexibility. Send your resume to: YourCareer101@ gmail.com.
Director of medical services - Wyandotte and Olathe Pregnancy Clinics are hiring a director of medical services. This full-time director will be responsible for the management of the medical staff, including nurses and sonographers, in both clinics. Responsibilities include handling personnel matters, ensuring shifts at both clinics are staffed, and providing ultrasounds and other clinic services for patients. This is a critical position to our organization, requiring dedication to the mission and vision of WPC Inc. We are looking for a registered nurse and will provide training to the right person to obtain their sonography certification. Please contact Leah Conner at (913) 207-0186 or email at: lconner@wpcnetwork.org.
Part-time facilities assistant - St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood is seeking a part-time facilities assistant for 20 - 25+ hours per week in the evenings with occasional weekends. Responsibilities include setup and teardown for events and custodial duties. Go to: stmichaelcp. org/employment for a full description. Submit resume and cover letter to: jim.thompson@st michaelcp.org.
Faculty and adjunct faculty job openings - Donnelly College, Kansas City, Kansas, is a Catholic college offering higher education for those who may not other wise be served Faculty job openings - Nursing faculty. Adjunct faculty job openings - psychology adjunct instructor for nursing and clinical nursing adjunct. Adjunct faculty Lansing Correctional Campus - Psychology adjunct. Find job descriptions and details at: www.donnelly. edu/careers.
Employment services workforce program manager - Bishop Sullivan Center is seeking an employment services workforce program manager working primarily at our 39th & Troost location in KC, MO. Inspired by Christian faith, Bishop Sullivan Center shows God’s love to people in financial hardship by providing food, help in finding jobs and other aid. This full- time, permanent position will develop and guide others in their job search, execute program relevance and grow community partnerships. For information/to apply, contact Stacey at: scowan@omnihrm.com or call (913) 653-8085.
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.
$$Paying Cash$$ - Antique Furniture, crocks, tin and cast iron toys, old tools, glassware, American coins, jewelry. Most anything old. Please call Patricia at (913) 515-2950.
Wanted to buy
Do you have a car or truck that you need to get rid of? If you do, CALL ME! I’m a cash buyer. We’re Holy Trinity parishioners. My name is Mark. (913) 980-4905.
Wanted to buy - Antiques & Collectibles: jewelry, military items, railroad, sterling, OLD holiday/toys and more. Renee Maderak (913) 475-7393. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.
HOME IMPROVEMENT
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.
Father and Son Home Remodeling - We specialize in kitchen/bathroom and basement remodeling, from start to finish. We also do decks, covered decks, porches, sun-rooms and room additions! If you’re not sure we do it, just call. From my family to yours, thank you for supporting my small business. To contact me, call (913) 709-7230 and ask for Josh.
Local handyman - Painting, int. and ext., wood rot, mason repair, gutter cleaning (gutter covers), dryer vent cleaning, sump pump (replace, add new), windows, doors (interior and exterior), honey-do list, window cleaning and more! Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118.
Popcorn ceiling texture removal Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144. 30 years’ experience. Interior painting specialist.
Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.
Haus To Home Remodeling - Let’s give that room a nice face-lift! Specializing in affordable room remodeling. From small projects to bathrooms and basements. Tile, paint, carpentry, wood rot, decks, drywall, etc. Free estimates. Call Cole at (913) 544-7352.
SERVICES
AKC Pros roofing, siding, gutters, insulation - Did you get tired of the door-knocking and constant calls from different roofing companies after the storms this year? Now that the dust has settled, let’s talk. If it’s new damage or old damage, just give me a call. I’ll walk your roof and we will decide together whether to file a claim. Locally owned and operated, licensed and insured. Call Josh at (913) 709-7230.
Memory quilts - Preserve your memories in a keepsake quality quilt, pillows, etc. Custom designed from your T-shirt collection, baby clothes, sports memorabilia, neckties . . . Quilted Memories. (913) 649-2704.
EL SOL Y LA TIERRA
*COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL *LAWN RENOVATION *MOWING *CLEANUP AND HAULING
*DIRT GRADING/INSTALLATION
*LANDSCAPE DESIGN* FREE ESTIMATES HABLAMOS Y ESCRIBIMOS INGLES!! CALL LUPE AT (816) 252-1391
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.
Concrete construction - Tear out and replace stamped, stained or colored patios and drives. Retaining walls, footing, 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.
CAREGIVING
Need caregiving at home? Don’t want to move?For nearly 20 years, we have helped seniors stay in their home with personal care, med management and household assistance. We also specialize in dementia care with free dementia training for families, all at reasonable rates and terms. Call Benefits of Home Senior Care at (913) 422-1591.
Home Care - Can provide home care for those needing assistance. CNA, 15 years’ experience, background check available from past employers. Call (913) 526-0797.
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.
REAL ESTATE
We are local people who can buy your house - Big companies from all over the nation come here buying houses, but that’s not us. We are parishioners of Holy Trinity Parish and we enjoy giving you personalized service. We can offer you a fair price and are flexible to your needs. If I can help, call me, Mark Edmondson, at (913) 980-4905.
Looking to buy or sell a home? - Buy or sell a home with someone who understands your values. We are a Catholic-owned, faith-driven team of Realtors, dedicated to helping fellow Catholics buy or sell homes in our community. We bring integrity, compassion and a commitment to your needs. Let us be part of your journey. Call Kevin Holmes (owner) at (913) 553-0539.
We buy houses and whole estates - We are local and family-owned, and will make you a fair cash offer. We buy houses in any condition. No fees or commissions and can close on the date of your choice. Selling your house has never felt so good. Jon & Stacy Bichelmeyer, (913) 599-5000.
PILGRIMAGES
Pilgrimages - Medjugorje is approved by the Vatican, receiving “nihil obstat” and encouraging people to go. The next pilgrimage date with visionary Mirjana Soldo as our hostess is March 12-20 and April 16-23, 2025. I am also available to speak to groups about Medjugorje. Call Grace at (913) 449-1806.
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)
ANNUAL
ST. JOSEPH TABLE
Joseph Parish
11311 Johnson Dr., Shawnee
March 2 at 8:30 a.m.
The day will begin with a table blessing at 8:30 a.m., viewing of the table, and cash and carry of Italian cookies. The meal will be served from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Contact Christine Marion for questions at (913) 706-8860.
MARDI GRAS
St. Benedict School
201 Unity St., Atchison
March 2 from 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Join us for a Mardi Gras celebration. Enjoy jambalaya, chicken, pizza and desserts. This is dine-in only. The cost is $12 for adults; $5 for kids ages 4 - 11; and $50 for a family (up to 8).
CALLED TO LOVE AGAIN
Church of the Ascension
9510 W. 127th, Overland Park
March 2 at 6 p.m.
Do you feel as if you will never heal? Wondering if you are ready for a relationship? Join us once a month for our Called to Love Again support group for fellowship and formation.
PRAYING THE LENTEN SCRIPTURES
Sophia Spirituality Center
Six-week Zoom series
March 6, 13, 20, 27 and April 3, 10
These sessions will give you the opportunity to pray the Sunday Scriptures of Lent with others, using techniques such as centering prayer, lectio divina and guided meditation. The fee is $60 for the complete series. For more information or to register, go online to: sophiaspiritualitycenter.org.
Register by March 3.
LENTEN SILENT RETREAT
Christ’s Peace House of Prayer 22131 Meagher Rd., Easton
March 7 - 9
The retreat begins on March 7 at 5:30 p.m. and ends on March 9 at 4:30 p.m. Prepare your heart for Lent with the practical wisdom of St. Francis de Sales’ “Introduction to the Devout Life.” This retreat will focus on embracing the spiritual practices of devotion, prayer and virtue that can transform your Lenten journey. St. Francis teaches that holiness is for everyone, not just the clergy, and offers timeless insights for integrating spirituality into everyday life. There are conferences, spiritual direction, eucharistic adoration, Mass, confession, and time for private prayer, reflection
and walking, etc. Cabins/courtyard rooms: $180; single/$270 couple; single guest rooms: $110 (meals included). To attend, fill out the individual retreat form online at: ChristsPeace.com or call (913) 773-8255.
‘FORGIVENESS 101’ WORKSHOP
Prince of Peace Parish
16000 W. 143rd St., Olathe
March 8 from 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Are you struggling with forgiving someone who has really hurt you? You are not alone! “Forgiveness 101” offers a safe and supportive experience of healing for anyone suffering from unresolved conflict and past trauma. In this workshop, you will review the important difference between forgiveness and justice and learn that forgiveness is not about forgetting or excusing the offense. For more information about this ministry, go online to: www.yeabut.org.
CORNED BEEF AND CABBAGE DINNER
Immaculate Conception Parish (Miege Hall)
711 N. Fifth St., Leavenworth
March 9 from 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
A corned beef dinner is $15; Irish stew is $10; hot dog, chips and dessert are $5. There will also be a silent auction and a raffle for cash prizes.
BREAKFAST WITH THE KNIGHTS
Divine Mercy Parish
555 W. Main St., Gardner
March 9 from 8:30 - 10 a.m.
The breakfast will include eggs, sausage, biscuits and gravy, pancakes, waffles and drinks. The cost is $6 for those over the age of 13 and free for ages 12 and under. Proceeds are used for charitable works, such as scholarships and other giving throughout the year.
‘PILGRIMS OF HOPE: IGNATIAN
CONTEMPLATIONS ON LUKE’S GOSPEL’
Church of the Nativity (lower level)
3800 W. 119th St., Leawood
March 11, 18 and 25 from 6:30 - 8 p.m.
Join us for three evenings to spend time with Jesus. Each evening features a reflective retreat talk, a guided prayer experience and time for spiritual conversation in small groups. Consider this a restful pause on your Lenten journey, a deliberate slowdown to attune yourself to the gentle call of Our Lord during this sacred season. For more information and to register, go online to: www.ignatiancenterkc.org, click on “Events and Programs,” and scroll down to “Pilgrims of Hope.”
LENTEN LINGER OVER COFFEE
Marillac Retreat & Spirituality Center
4200 S. 4th St., Leavenworth
March 11, 18, 25 and April 1 and 8 from 9 - 11 a.m.
Join us five Tuesdays during Lent as we reflect on the lives and work of consecrated and modern-day saints among us. Their lives, methods of prayer, and their struggles and sacrifices invite us to deepen our prayer life. You are invited to conclude your morning with 11 a.m. Mass with the Sisters. No registration is necessary. A freewill offering will be accepted.
WINE AND WISDOM:
TAX-REDUCING
STRATEGIES
St. Joseph Parish (McDevitt Hall)
11311 Johnson Dr., Shawnee
March 12 at 6 p.m.
The speaker will be Bill Eckert, AEP, CAP, senior financial adviser at Renaissance Financial. There will be a social and wine tasting at 6 p.m. and the presentation at 7 p.m. Register by visiting the website at: cfnek.org/events or by contacting Mitch Nolan at (913) 647-3070 or by email at: mnolan@archkck.org.
SINGLES DANCE
Camelot Dance Studio 6635 W. 151st St., Overland Park
March 15 from 7 - 10 p.m.
No partner is necessary for this singles only event. Music, played by a DJ, will be ’70s, ’80s, country and disco. There will be free style, line and ballroom dancing. This is sponsored by New Friends Network meetup group. Dress is casual.
ROSARY RALLY
Church of the Holy Cross
8311 W. 93rd St., Overland Park
March 16 from 3 - 4 p.m.
We will pray the joyful, sorrowful and glorious mysteries of the rosary followed by Benediction and the opportunity to enroll in the brown scapular. For driving directions or future dates for the Kansas City monthly rosary rallies, visit the website at: www.rosaryralieskc.org.
WINE AND WISDOM: TAX-REDUCING STRATEGIES
Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish (Room 37) 5501 Monticello Rd., Shawnee
March 26 at 6 - p.m.
The speaker will be Bill Eckert, AEP, CAP,
senior financial adviser at Renaissance Financial. There will be a social and wine tasting at 6 p.m. and the presentation at 7 p.m. Register online at: cfnek.org/events or contact Jane Schmitt at (913) 647-3060 or by email at: jschmitt@archkck.org.
DEO GRATIAS APPRECIATION DINNER
Church of the Ascension 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park
March 27 at 5:30 p.m.
The evening will begin with Mass at 5:30 p.m. with Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, followed by cocktails, dinner and program, and a final blessing. Deo Gratias honorees are: Distinguished Family - Marty and Beth Krebs; Distinguished Organization - Church of the Ascension. Register online at: www.cfnek.org/events/ deogratias or send an email to: Mwade@ archkck.org.
HOPE BALL
Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center 2345 McGee St., Kansas City, Missouri March 29 at 5 p.m.
Get ready for an unforgettable night of elegance, joy and purpose at Hope Ball 2025. Purchase your ticket or tables or sponsor today. Ticket sales close on Feb. 28. All proceeds benefit Catholic Charities of Kansas City-St. Joseph. Learn more online at: www.catholiccharitiesball.org.
DIVORCE SUPPORT GROUP
‘HEALING THE DIVORCED HEART’
Michael the Archangel (Gabriel Room) 14251 Nall Ave., Leawood 1st & 3rd Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m.
Those who have experienced a divorce understand as perhaps few others can. We were sad, lonely, scared and angry, but we have found that with God, time and the support of others, healing is possible. For more information, visit the website at: www.stmichaelcp.org/divorce-support. Plan to dine in our carryout for breakfast.
CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS
DEADLINE: Noon, Thursday, eight days before the desired publication date.
SEND SUBMISSIONS TO: beth. blankenship@theleaven.org.
DAILY READINGS
EIGHTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME
March 2
EIGHTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Sir 27: 4-7
Ps 92: 2-3, 13-16
1 Cor 15: 54-58
Lk 6: 39-45
March 3
Katharine Drexel, virgin
Sir 17: 20-24
Ps 32: 1-2, 5-7
Mk 10: 17-27
March 4
Casimir
Sir 35: 1-12
Ps 50: 5-8, 14, 23
Mk 10: 28-31
March 5
ASH WEDNESDAY
Jl 2: 12-18
Ps 51: 3-6b, 12-14, 17
2 Cor 5:20 – 6:2
Mt 6: 1-6, 16-18
March 6
Thursday
Dt 30: 15-20
Ps 1: 1-4, 6
Lk 9: 22-25
March 7
Perpetua and Felicity, martyrs Is 58: 1-9a
Ps 51: 3-6b, 18-19
Mt 9: 14-15
March 8
John of God, religious
Is 58: 9b-14
Ps 86: 1-6
Lk 5: 27-32
OLIVER
PLUNKETT 1625-1681
The son of Irish gentry, Oliver was educated by his Cistercian cousin Patrick Plunkett, who took part in the 1641 rebellion. Ordained in Rome in 1654, Oliver stayed there to teach and review books for the Sacred Congregation of the Index. In 1669, he was named archbishop of Armagh and primate of Ireland. Over the next decade, he organized synods, visited dioceses, opened schools and confirmed thousands of Catholics. With a new wave of English persecution, he was forced into hiding in 1679. Arrested late that year, while visiting his dying cousin Patrick in Dublin, he was imprisoned until his execution in London on trumped-up charges of treason. Extant letters reveal a devoted and courageous prelate who embraced martyrdom.
We’ve all heard the expression, “My eyes were bigger than my stomach.”
Unfortunately, that’s how I view the season of Lent. I’ve rarely had a “successful” one because I always want to accomplish way more in the traditional areas of prayer, fasting and almsgiving than is feasible.
That’s changed this year based on this little story:
A university professor went searching for the meaning of life. After several years and many miles, he came to the hut of a holy hermit and asked to be enlightened.
The hermit invited his visitor in and began to serve him tea. He filled the man’s cup and then kept on pouring so that the tea was soon dripping onto the floor.
The professor watched until he could no longer stand it.
“Stop! It’s full!” he cried. “No more will go in!”
“Exactly,” said the hermit. “Like this cup,
‘lent’ me your ears
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.
you are full of your own opinions, perceptions and ideas. How can I teach you unless you first empty your cup?” (Story adapted from “Empty Yourself” in Paul J. Wharton’s “Stories and Parables for Preachers and Teachers.”)
Well, I feel the Holy Spirit has emptied my cup and helped me to acknowledge that there are still only 24 hours in a day . . . even in Lent. With that in
mind, I’m embracing a scaled-down but “doable” Lent, even with all the extra priestly duties, like hearing more confessions or leading the Stations of the Cross.
In the area of prayer, I’ve selected two books as Lenten companions. I’ll start the day with Pope Francis’ latest encyclical on the Sacred Heart, “Dilexit Nos,” reading just five points a day with my morning coffee. (There are 220 “points” in the document, so I’ll finish it all during the 40 days of Lent.) In the evening, I’ll read Amy Ekeh’s “Stretch Out Your Hand: Reflections on the Healing Ministry of Jesus.” It’s perfectly
divided into 40 short chapters consisting of a brief Scripture passage, reflection, meditation and prayer.
As far as fasting, I’m not buying anything nonessential during Lent. Period.
And that leads into almsgiving. I’ve still got way too much stuff. It’s good stuff, but too much, way more than I’ll ever use. So, I’m trying out the “40 Bags in 40 Days Challenge” during Lent. It’s exactly what it sounds like: Each day of Lent, you grab a bag and fill it with the “treasures” you no longer need, use or want. Then donate, recycle or give away the “stuff.” (And Sundays are “free” days in Lent, so no working to fill a bag.)
What are your Lenten plans? Explore your parish’s opportunities for the sacrament of reconciliation, Stations, daily Mass or other special prayer services. Check out the calendar page in The Leaven for retreats or days of reflection. Plan to attend a fish fry and
sit with some folks you don’t know. Try the “40 Bags” idea; Google it for more information or inspiration. Savor this season of transformation that begins on Ash Wednesday. I’ll end with a scene from the “Man of La Mancha.” As you know, it’s the story of Don Quixote, who believes he’s a knight of old and battles windmills that he thinks are dragons. At the end of the musical, he’s dying and is attended to by Aldonza, a prostitute he’s idealized by calling her “Dulcinea” (“Sweetheart”). Of course, the patrons at the bar find this hilarious. Aldonza, however, is touched by Quixote’s love. As he dies, Aldonza sings “The Impossible Dream.” At the song’s end, someone shouts, “Aldonza!” But she stands tall and proud and replies, “My name is Dulcinea!” She’s been transformed by love. Let’s all give God a chance to transform us during these holy 40 days.
Jesus’ ‘Sermon on the Plain’ does not make for easy listening
Have we been paying attention?
For the last couple weeks, the Sunday Scriptures have given us a healthy dose of what is commonly called “The Sermon on the Plain” — Luke’s version of the more famous “Sermon on the Mount” found in Matthew’s Gospel. The lessons have been familiar — but strikingly direct.
What we hear is Jesus speaking directly to his disciples — the word “you” pops up a lot — while giving explicit instructions on how to live as his disciples. It’s not easy listening. Jesus has advised to love your enemies, pray for your persecutors,
DEACON GREG KANDRA
Deacon Greg Kandra is an award-winning author and journalist, and creator of the blog “The Deacon’s Bench.” He serves in the Diocese of Brooklyn, New York.
give away your cloak. This Sunday’s excerpt adds to that a lesson against hypocrisy: “Why do you notice
the splinter in your brother’s eye, but do not perceive the wooden beam in your own? . . . You hypocrite!” And he concludes: “A good person out of the store of goodness in his heart produces good.”
We get a sense of a summation here — a broad but incisive conclusion — and maybe the church has given us these readings at this moment for a significant reason. The time we call “ordinary” is drawing to a close. Wednesday, we begin Lent. A journey of prayer, fasting and almsgiving is about to start. You might consider these Gospel readings as lessons for the road. What we’ve been hearing these last few
weeks is something more than filler, biding the time between Christmas and Lent. These teachings are foundational — and among the most challenging for anyone who might claim the label “Christian.”
There have been lessons about mercy and compassion, about forgiveness and understanding. We’ve heard warnings about material success and living in physical comfort. And this Sunday, the disciples hear about the hazards of judging others. There’s been a lot to absorb, and much to leave listeners both inspired and convicted. A prevailing message is this simple but necessary reminder: Being a
Pope continues to rest, do paperwork at hospital
VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- The morning after the Vatican confirmed Pope Francis has double pneumonia, the director of the Vatican press office said the pope had a restful night at Rome’s Gemelli hospital. Matteo Bruni, director of the Vatican press office, told reporters early Feb. 19
disciple isn’t easy. Be prepared to be challenged. Be prepared to need to change. That seems a very good theme to carry with us as we get ready to have our brows stained with ashes. These are ideas we should all carry with us in prayer as we begin the walk toward Calvary and, beyond that, to Easter.
As we turn the page on Ordinary Time and prepare to enter the extraordinary season that is Lent, Jesus has been giving us pointers for the days to come. Things to look for. Pitfalls to avoid. Attitudes to adjust. Have we been paying attention?
that the pope slept peacefully, woke up and had breakfast.
A CT scan Feb. 18 “demonstrated the onset of bilateral pneumonia, which required additional drug therapy,” according to the previous evening’s medical bulletin. The 88-yearold pope’s history of lung problems and repeated bouts of bronchitis have resulted in “bronchiectasis,” a widening of the airways that makes a person more susceptible to infection, and “asthmatic bronchitis” which makes “therapeutic treatment more complex,” the bulletin had said.
One of the talented deacons of our archdiocese pointed out that the Trinity — God the Father, Jesus Christ his Son and the Holy Spirit — are a community of persons.
Within the Trinity exists a relationship of cooperation and support, and being made in God’s image, we long for community. This is illustrated at Catholic Community Health with our work at Villa St. Francis, in home care and in hospice care. These teams work together toward a common goal of carrying out God’s healing mission to those that we serve in our ministries.
HEALTHCARE, THE CATHOLIC WAY!
Join our community — in prayer, support or as a volunteer Ministers to the homebound are truly extraordinary
Last time, I wrote of being hungry for having had to miss Sunday Mass due to the weather. I hope sharing about my experience encouraged everyone to discover just how hungry for the Bread of Life we can become when we fail — through uncontrollable circumstance or conscious choice — to miss our place at the sacrificial banquet of the very Lamb of God.
I was reminded, after that column was printed, about a column I wrote just after our churches began to reopen following the heights of the COVID pandemic now five years ago. In that column, I likened our
Behind the scenes of this healing mission is our board of directors — we’re blessed to have a team of Catholic doctors, nurses, lawyers,
financial advisers, marketing professionals and more who volunteer their time, talent and treasure to ensure that the mission of Catholic Community Health is carried out today, and lasts long into the future.
Father Gary Pennings, a long-time CCH
AS THE CHURCH PRAYS
inability to participate in holy Mass during those weeks to the ongoing inability of our
brothers and sisters who are homebound to ever attend Mass and receive holy Communion within the liturgy itself. For me, the pandemic was a sobering reminder of how much we can take for granted when we have free access to stores, theaters, schools and also
board member, often reminds us that Christ is at the heart of the work that we do. He advises that when we put Christ first and entrust our mission to his grace and will, we are bound to be successful in our efforts.
With the example of Father Pennings and others, we have been committed to being authentically Catholic, carrying out our work according to the ethical and religious directives for Catholic health care services. These guidelines seek to uphold the dignity of the human person as we provide five-starlevel care for them.
When I think about
to churches. Please God, we will never see those days again.
But our homebound still live in a perpetual quarantine, no longer able to access any of these places except perhaps (for some) on the rarest of occasions.
And so, what a tremendous blessing are those men and women who, out of solicitude for their homebound fellow Catholics, serve the apostolate by visiting them and bringing them holy Communion. Homebound ministers, as they are most often called, serve as a living bridge between the parish church and those members unable to attend Mass due to advanced age or illness.
all the people that make our mission possible, starting with the outstanding leadership of Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, our board, our talented executive team, our benefactors, the many selfless volunteers and the incredible staff at Catholic Community Health, I’m overcome with gratitude.
These people are truly making a difference in the lives of seniors in our community, many of whom would not be able to afford it if Catholic Community Health wasn’t here to provide it. These people make our mission possible, living out that same
Of course, they are extraordinary in their ministry of holy Communion, but ask many a pastor how able he would be, practically, to visit each week each of the homebound faithful within his parish, and you’d understand that these ministers are indeed extraordinary, and in many ways.
Speaking with one of these dedicated workers of the lay apostolate just this past week, she shared what it’s like to serve these “old-timers” as she reverently calls them (she just turned 80 herself). She described how happy these folks are to “receive Jesus” as well as to simply receive a few moments with someone who cares
community of support modeled for us by God in the Trinity. It is said that “many hands make light work,” and while the work of our staff and volunteers is rarely light, the support of our board and our community make it possible. As you’re progressing through your Lenten journey, I invite you to pray for our residents, those we serve in home care and hospice, and for our staff.
If you would like to get more involved, check out our website at: Catholiccommunity health.org; we would love to have you as part of our community.
for them, beyond their dedicated family members and committed residence workers. And even those who, in their advanced conditions, are unable to communicate as others are, express their gratitude through the squeezing of a hand or a simple, repeated, “Thank you.”
“For I was hungry, and you gave me something to eat” (Mt 25:35). Ministers to the homebound fulfill Our Lord’s words in extraordinary ways, by being extraordinary ministers to those whose hungers are extraordinary.
I take this time to say to each of you, dear homebound ministers: Thank you.
BRAD HEIDRICK
Brad Heidrick is the CEO of Catholic Community Health.
MICHAEL PODREBARAC
Michael Podrebarac is the archdiocesan consultant for the office of liturgy and sacramental life.
Kids’ Kids’
CHRONICLE CHRONICLE
The devil tries but fails to tempt Jesus in the desert
By Jennifer Ficcaglia Catholic Courier
fter Jesus was baptized in the Jordan River, he was filled with the Holy Spirit.
Afterward, the Holy Spirit led Jesus into the desert for 40 days. Jesus did not eat anything while he was in the desert, and he was hungry at the end of his time there.
At the end of the 40 days, Jesus was tempted by the devil. The devil knew Jesus was hungry, so he decided to tempt Jesus using food.
“If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread,” the devil said to Jesus.
But Jesus was not so easily tempted. He refused to turn the stone into bread.
“It is written, ‘One does not live on bread alone,’” Jesus replied.
The devil didn’t give up.
He took Jesus up to a high place and showed him all the kingdoms of the world in a single instant.
“I shall give to you all this power and glory; for it has been handed over to me, and I may give it to whomever I wish,” the devil said. “All this will be yours, if you worship me.”
Jesus was not tempted by the devil’s offer of power and glory.
“It is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord, your God, and him alone shall you serve,’” Jesus said.
Then, the devil led Jesus to Jerusalem and made him stand on the Temple’s parapet, which is a low wall or railing at the edge of a roof.
“If you are the Son of God,” the devil said, “throw yourself down from here, for it is written: ‘He will command his angels concerning you, to guard you,’ and: ‘With their hands they will support you, lest you dash your foot against a stone.’”
“It also says,” Jesus replied, “‘You shall not put the Lord, your God, to the test.’”
When the devil had finished every temptation, he departed from Jesus for a time.
Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Holy Spirit, and news of him spread throughout the whole region.
Jesus began to teach in the synagogues, and he was praised by all.
2.
Bible accent
One of the synagogues in which Jesus taught was in his hometown of Nazareth.
In Luke 4:16, we read that one day, Jesus was in the Nazareth synagogue on the Sabbath. He read aloud a passage from Isaiah:
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring glad tidings to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free and to proclaim a year acceptable to the Lord.”
“Today, this Scripture passage is fulfilled in your hearing,” Jesus said.
“Isn’t this the son of Joseph?” the people in the synagogue asked each other.
“Amen, I say to you, no prophet is accepted in his own native place,” Jesus said. “Indeed, I tell you, there were many widows in Israel in the days of Elijah when the sky was closed for three-and-a-half years and a severe famine spread over the entire land. It was to none of these that Elijah was sent, but only to a widow in Zarephath in the land of Sidon. Again, there were many lepers in Israel during the time of Elisha the prophet; yet not one of them was cleansed, but only Naaman the Syrian.”
The people were infuriated by Jesus’ words and drove him out of town.
According to legend, St. Enda (d. 530) was an Irishman who asked his brother-in-law, who was a king, for some land on the Aran Islands. Enda founded a religious community and built a monastery and 10 smaller houses on the land. To test his followers for sinfulness, it is said that he would place each one in a wicker canoe that was not watertight. If the boat stayed afloat in the water when the person was in it, the person was considered to be free from sin.
St. Enda is credited with starting monasticism in Ireland, and we honor him on March 21.
1. Who led Jesus into the desert?
How many ways did the devil try to tempt Jesus?
St. Enda
ILLUSTRATION BY LINDA JEANNE RIVERS