www.theleaven.com | Newspaper of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas | Vol. 31, No. 21 january 8, 2010
G
reen shoots. Even as the nation entered deeper into a year of economic pain, this metaphor for the arrival of early spring became a byword for hope. The year started off with the new Obama administration bringing new energy and ideas to Washington, D.C., but also an agenda removing pro-life protections in the areas of embryonic stem-cell research, overturning conscience protections, and funding abortions overseas. The new president also appointed pro-abortion officials to important positions in the government. In response, archdiocesan Catholics, led by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, rallied to take part in a national postcard campaign to oppose the Freedom of Choice Act, which some feared would find a receptive audience in the new Congress should it be introduced. Finally, the year ended with a close, bitter fight over the shape and direction of health care for the nation. But if one were looking for green shoots — for hope — there was plenty to find in the archdiocese. Several parishes celebrated anniversaries past the century mark. Despite the bad economy, building projects at parishes and schools continued. Three men were ordained to the priesthood, and a class of 20 men continued to advance toward ordination to the permanent diaconate. So before the books are closed on 2009, let’s take one last look back at the events and people that affected our lives as the church in northeastern Kansas. story continues on page 3