01-08-10 Vol. 31 No. 21

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

2 ARCHBISHOP

THE LEAVEN • january 8, 2010

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS

D

Use the ‘Memorare’ to approach Jesus through Mary

uring October 2003, I was fortunate to be in Rome for the beatification of Mother Teresa of Calcutta. The afternoon and evening before the scheduled outdoor celebration of the beatification ceremony, Rome experienced a steady downpour of rain. The weather reports were bleak. The forecasts were for several days of uninterrupted rain.

The Missionaries of Charity, the order of religious Sisters founded by Mother Teresa, seemed to be everywhere in Rome. Hundreds had come from around the world for the beatification of their foundress. In conversation with a group of Missionaries of Charity, I expressed some concern about the forecasts for the next day’s weather.

The Sisters reassured me, despite the predictions of the meteorologists, not to worry. The Missionaries of Charity informed me that, whenever Mother Teresa needed a special favor from Jesus, she invoked the intercession of his mother by asking the Sisters to make a “Memorare novena.” They told me that every Missionary of Charity in Rome was praying the Memorare nine times. They were confident that the next day’s weather would be fine.

The Sisters were right. St. Peter’s Square, contrary to the predictions of the meteorological experts, was basked in bright sunshine for the beatification ceremony of Mother Teresa.

This past Sept. 8, the feast of the birth of Mary, I had the privilege to dedicate a new Marian grotto on the campus of Benedictine College. The college was founded a little over 150 years ago — approximately the same time that Mary appeared to St. Bernadette at Lourdes. In part because of this historical connection, but even more so because of the beautiful Marian devotion of so many of the Benedictine

students, the leadership of the college had decided to erect, at a very prominent location on the campus, a special outdoor space for prayer in honor of Mary.

The schedule for Sept. 8 began with a 5 p.m. Mass in St. Benedict’s Abbey church, followed by a procession to the grotto for the blessing and dedication.

At 3 p.m. on the afternoon of Sept. 8, it was pouring rain at our chancery offices. All the weather reports predicted rain throughout northeast Kansas for the rest of the afternoon and evening.

Benedictine president Steve Minnis has a beautiful devotion to our Blessed Mother. He was aware of Mother Teresa’s use of the “Memorare novena” for special needs. In recent years, President Minnis formed what he dubbed the “Memorare Army,” asking them to imitate Mother Teresa by invoking Mary’s intercession through the praying of the “Memorare” for special needs of the college.

I called President Minnis shortly after 3 p.m. on Sept. 8, encouraging him to get the “Memorare Army” praying for good weather for the grotto dedication. He promised to rally the troops!

On my drive to Benedictine College that afternoon, the rain persisted right to the city limits of Atchison. As I arrived at the abbey church around 4:30 p.m., there was no rain. Yet, the skies looked ominous. I feared that by 6 p.m., the time for the blessing of the grotto, Atchison would also be enveloped in rain.

When we processed out of the abbey church to go to the grotto, the sun was shining. The weather was perfect for the blessing of the grotto. Much to my amazement, it did not start raining in Atchison until 9 p.m., well after the outdoor festivities were concluded.

President Minnis, some weeks later, told me that one of the college staff happened to be in Kansas City the night of the grotto dedication. Fearing that the rain had dampened the

dedication ceremony, he was talking to an air traffic controller about the day’s weather. The controller expressed his amazement about the storm system that had rolled across Kansas at a steady clip, only to stall inexplicably at 4 p.m. outside of Atchison for approximately 5 hours.

A couple years ago, two of our priests were telling me about an experience they had on winter vacation in Florida. They had reserved a rental car. The one priest was thinking about how enjoyable it would be to drive a convertible the next few days in sunny Florida. He offered a silent prayer to the Blessed Mother expressing his desire for a convertible for those days.

Much to his surprise, when they went to pick up their car, the rental company employee was apologetic because they did not have available the type of car they had reserved. However, she informed them that for no extra charge they could have a larger car that also happened to be a convertible.

When he told the other priest about his prayer, his brother priest chided him for wasting his prayers on convertibles.

The “Catechism of the Catholic Church” describes devotion to the Blessed Virgin in this way: “The Church’s devotion to the Blessed Virgin is intrinsic to Christian worship. The church rightly honors the Blessed Virgin with special devotion. From the most ancient times the Blessed Virgin has been honored with the title of Mother of God, to whose protection the faithful fly in all their dangers and needs. . . . This very special devotion . . . differs essentially from adoration which is given the incarnate Word and equally to the Father and the Holy Spirit, and greatly fosters this adoration” (no. 971).

There are no coincidences with God. Jesus has given us his mother to be our mother also. Why would we not want to approach Jesus in the company of Mary when we are praying for a special intention?

It is not wise to squander our prayer requests on trivial matters. On the other hand, we know that the Lord and his mother are interested in even the seemingly small matters of our lives.

As we begin a new year, it is wise to discern what are the most important needs for ourselves and our loved

ones. Through the devout praying of the rosary or perhaps making our own “Memorare novena,” I encourage you to invite Mary to go with you to her Son for your request.

The ‘Memorare’

Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help or sought thy intercession, was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother. To thee I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy, hear and answer me. Amen.

Archbishop Naumann’s weekly calendar Jan. 8-11

Region IX bishops’ retreat

Jan. 12

Administrative Team meeting Priests Personnel meeting

Jan. 13

Open House at residence for priests

Jan. 15

5th anniversary as archbishop The Catholic Way radio taping

Jan. 16

Interview candidates for permanent diaconate Catholic Charities Snowball

Jan. 17

Pro-life forum, St. Joseph, Shawnee

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita@theleaven.com

Advertising Representative Jennifer Siebes jennifer@theleaven.com

President Most Reverend Joseph F. Naumann

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe@theleaven.com

Reporter KARA HANSEN kara@theleaven.com

Editor Reverend Mark Goldasich, stl frmark@theleaven.com

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd@theleaven.com

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)

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THE LEAVEN • january 8, 2010

SECOND FRONT PAGE 3

Archdiocesan Year in Review continued from Page 1

January

• The vocations office kicked the new year off with the launch of a new Web site.

• Archdiocesan Catholics joined others for observances in Topeka and at the March for Life in Washington, D.C., and other places for the 36th anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court’s Roe v. Wade abortion ruling.

• Holy Name Parish in Kansas City, Kan., marked its 100th anniversary with a Jan. 4 Mass celebrated by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann.

• The archdiocese mobilized to be part of a national postcard campaign to oppose the possible introduction of the Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA).

• Parishes in the Atchison Pastoral Region began their pastoral planning process.

February

• The Kansas Catholic Conference faced the formidable task of advocating for the poor and vulnerable during a busy legislative session in Topeka.

• Catholic Radio station KEXS extended its reach when it boosted its power on Feb. 5 and announced plans to expand to other AM and FM frequencies to cover more territory. t Archbishop Celestino Migliore, the permanent observer of the Holy See to the United Nations, visited and gave a talk to students on Feb. 18 at Benedictine College in Atchison.

• The Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women held a retreat on Feb. 28 at Savior Pastoral Center.

March

• Archdiocesan Catholics joined with others across the nation to oppose the Obama administration’s new policy regarding embryonic stem-cell research.

• Hundreds of individuals joined the church during three separate Rite of Election liturgies — held on March 1 at St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kan., and Ascension Parish in Overland Park; and on March 8 at Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish in Topeka.

• Archbishop Naumann voiced his opposition to the appointment of Gov. Kathleen Sebelius to the Cabinet post of Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services in the Obama administration.

• The newly formed Archdiocesan Pastoral Council met for the first time on March 16.

• The Benedictine Sisters of Red Plains Monastery in Piedmont, Okla., completed a merger with the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica on March 20.

• Controversial late-term abortionist Dr. George Tiller went on trial on March 23, accused of violating Kansas’ late-term abortion laws. He was acquitted on March 27 on 19 misdemeanor charges. Next, he faced 11 counts before the Kansas Board of Healing Arts.

• The Region IX Stewardship Conference was held March 26 and 27 at Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kan. • On March 27, Gov. Kathleen Sebelius signed the Woman’s Right to Know and See Act.

April

t Father Charles P. Andalikiewicz, 78, pastor of Immaculate Conception Parish in Louisburg, died on April 1 at St. Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City, Mo. • The second annual Gospel of Life convention was held on April 18 at St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Overland Park.

• Twenty men came one step closer to becoming permanent deacons when they were installed as acolytes on April 18 at Savior Pastoral Center.

• St. Paul School in Olathe celebrated its 50th anniversary on April 19.

• The Red Envelope Project was launched to voice pro-life concerns to President Barack Obama.

May

s Two celebrations were held to honor the departing Ursuline Sisters of Paola. A Mass and reception were held on May 3 at Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park and a Mass and potluck dinner were held on May 9 at Holy Trinity Parish in Paola.

Declining numbers led the Paola Sisters to merge with the Ursulines of Mount St. Joseph in Maple Mount, Ky. • Archbishop Naumann and Bishop Robert Finn of the Diocese of Kansas CitySt. Joseph let more than 700 people in the annual Mother’s Day rosary on May 9 near an Overland Park abortion clinic.

• Scott Wallisch was ordained a transitional deacon on May 16 at St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee. He is scheduled to be ordained to the priesthood this May 29 at St. Peter’s Cathedral in Kansas City, Kan. • Father Matthew Schiffelbein, Father Andrew Strobl, and Father Patrick Sullivan were ordained to the priesthood on May 23 at Holy Trinity Parish in Paola.

• The Archdiocesan Fine Arts Council was organized on May 28.

• St. Mary Parish in Purcell celebrated its 150th anniversary on May 30 with a Mass celebrated by Archbishop Naumann.

• Archbishop Naumann joined with the other Catholic bishops of Kansas to condemn the May 31 murder of Dr. George Tiller.

June

• Hundreds of couples celebrated their 50th wedding anniversaries at a Mass on June 7 at St. Peter Cathedral in Kansas City, Kan. • Archbishop Naumann was the main celebrant and homilist at a Mass dedicating the new St. Michael the Archangel Church in Leawood June 13.

s Archbishop Naumann and Bishop Robert Finn led a eucharistic procession and solemn exposition of the Eucharist on June 14, the solemnity of Corpus Christi, at St. Agnes Parish in Roeland Park.

• Jacki Corrigan received the 2009 National Association of Catholic Family Life Ministers award on June 25.

July

• Archbishop Naumann led the blessing and groundbreaking on July 12 for the new St. Bernard Church in Wamego. Site preparation began on May 8.

• Jim Augustyn, a member of Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe, was named Catechist of the Year, and Denise Godinez, a member of Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish in Overland Park, received the outstanding Director of Religious Education award at the Kansas Association of Religious Educators conference from July 2426 in Salina.

August

• A new church for St. Francis de Sales Parish in Lansing was dedicated by Archbishop Naumann on Aug. 1.

• Msgr. Charles McGlinn and Msgr.

Thomas Tank were honored for their years of service as vicars general of the archdiocese on Aug. 12 at Savior Pastoral Center.

• Archbishop Naumann blessed the new Sts. Peter and Paul School in Seneca. The first day of class was Aug. 19.

County, died of cancer on Sept. 17 at the home of his sister in Eldora, Iowa.

• St. John the Evangelist Parish in Lawrence celebrated its 150th anniversary with a Mass held Sept. 20 at the University of Kansas’ Lied Center.

• Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood concluded a series of 50th anniversary activities at a Mass celebrated by Archbishop Naumann on Sept. 26.

October

• St. Patrick Parish in Emerald marked its 150th anniversary with a Mass celebrated by Archbishop Naumann on Oct. 3.

• St. Joseph Parish in Waverly’s new parish hall was blessed and dedicated by Archbishop Naumann on Oct. 3.

• Karla Liebham, associate superintendent of schools for the archdiocese, was given the M. Claradine Johnson Award on Oct. 6 at the Kansas North Central Association fall conference in Wichita.

• Father William Anthony Finnerty, 82, died at Villa St. Francis in Olathe on Oct. 7.

• Holy Family Parish in Eudora marked its 150th anniversary with a Mass celebrated by Archbishop Naumann Oct. 10.

November

• The archdiocese announced on Nov. 6 that for the fifth consecutive year it had been found in compliance with the U.S. bishops’ “Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People.”

• On Nov. 6, St. Lawrence Parish in Easton merged with St. Joseph of the Valley Parish in rural Leavenworth County.

Boundary changes were announced for St. Paul Parish in Olathe, Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa, and Sacred Heart Parish in Shawnee.

• Archbishop Naumann was among the first 148 Christian leaders to sign the Manhattan Declaration, released on Nov. 20.

• The Ursuline Sisters were recognized with the St. Rose Philippine Duchesne Award at a Mass celebrated by Archbishop Naumann on Nov. 22 at Sacred Heart Parish in Mound City. t Approximately 1,300 archdiocesan youths joined 21,000 of their peers at Bartle Hall and the Sprint Center in downtown Kansas City, Mo., for the 2009 National Catholic Youth Conference from Nov. 1921.

September

• Archbishop Pietro Sambi, apostolic nuncio to the United States, delivered the keynote address at an academic convocation held Sept. 1 at Benedictine College, Atchison. s The Leaven won several awards at the annual Catholic Media Convention, May 27 - 29 in Anaheim, Calif. Kara Hansen won a first place in Best Feature Writing and shared a first place Best Sports Journalism Sports Feature with photographer Susan McSpadden. Hansen also won the 2009 Bernardin-O’Connor Award for best overall pro-life feature. It was her second major award for pro-life journalism in as many years. Freelancers Marc and Julie Anderson earned a first-place Michael J. McGivney Award for Distinguished Volunteerism in Journalism from the Knights of Columbus. Freelancer Jill Ragar Esfeld and photographer Elaina Cochran took third place for Best Multiple Pictures Package.

Photographer Don Wolf took Best Scenic, Still Life or Weather Photograph.

s Archbishop Naumann led the blessing and groundbreaking on Sept. 5 for the new St. James Parish in Wetmore.

• Archbishop Naumann blessed and dedicated the St. Matthew Parish Early Learning Center and the new parish hall and entryway on Sept. 13 in Topeka.

• Father Neal Stull, SOLT, 45, pastor of St. Lawrence Parish in Easton and St. Joseph of the Valley in rural Leavenworth

December

• The Apostles of the Interior Life established their North American provincial house in Overland Park.

• Immaculate Conception Parish in Valley Falls marked its 150th anniversary with a Mass celebrated by Archbishop Naumann on Dec. 6.

4 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • January 8, 2010

Serra luncheon offers seminarians, parents a chance to connect

By Kara Hansen Leaven staff

LAWRENCE — They come from all kinds of backgrounds and all corners of the archdiocese.

But they share one thing in common: the desire to become a Catholic priest.

And even though they might be at different seminaries and at different points of their formation, every year all archdiocesan seminarians are brought together for the Serra Club Mass and luncheon.

The Mass, celebrated by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, was held at Corpus Christi Parish in Lawrence on Dec. 29.

Numerous priests of the archdiocese concelebrated with him. A luncheon followed for priests, members of the Serra Club, and seminarians and their families.

“It was great to meet the Serra Club members and thank them for their support of our seminarians,” said Don Schmidt, a parishioner at Holy Spirit in Lee’s Summit, Mo. Don is the father of Trent Schmidt, a seminarian for the archdiocese.

The Serrans promote and support vocations to the priesthood and religious life, including raising and providing financial support for archdiocesan seminarians.

“The monetary support is a huge plus for the seminarians because they are basically full-time students and can’t support themselves through seminary,” Don said.

The Mass and luncheon also provide a rare opportunity for parents of seminarians to meet and connect with one another.

“I was glad for the opportunity to get together because we don’t get to see the other families very much,” said Gail Schmitz, a member of St. Dominic Parish in Holton.

“We come from all walks of life because there’s such a range of ages and interests among the seminarians — from straight out of high school to men in their 40s,” she said. “This gives us a chance to meet and get to know some of the other families we might not have much in common with otherwise.”

Gail is the mother of archdiocesan seminarian Daniel Schmitz. She said that Daniel was sure he wanted to pursue a vocation to the priesthood when he was a junior in college, but she and husband David wanted Daniel to wait

Leaven photo by Elaina Cochran

Archdiocesan seminarians and cousins Quentin Schmitz (white shirt) and Daniel Schmitz (black shirt) are joined by their fathers David (far right) and Giles (far left) at the annual Serra Club Mass and luncheon on Dec. 29 at Corpus Christi Parish in Lawrence.

“We come from all walks of life because there’s such a range of ages and interests among the seminarians — from straight out of high school to men in their 40s.

This gives us a chance to meet and get to know some of the other families we might not have much in common with otherwise.”

Gail Schmitz, a member of St. Dominic Parish in Holton and mother of archdiocesan seminarian Daniel Schmitz

— not because they were unsupportive of a vocation to the priesthood, but because they wanted him to be certain.

“To us, going to the seminary is like being engaged,” said Gail. “We wanted Daniel to be sure this was what he wanted to do. And by the time he finished college, we were all certain of his calling.”

When Trent Schmidt first talked to his parents about pursuing a vocation to the priesthood, they were caught a little off guard.

“Trent entered the seminary later in life than a lot do, and he was already involved in a career as the superintendent of a golf course,” said Don Schmidt.

“We were a little overwhelmed at first.”

The Schmidts, who had always been actively involved in their parish and their children’s Catholic schools, were also excited about the step their son was taking in following his faith.

“One of the things Trent first brought

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up to us was his concern about not continuing our legacy, since he was our only son and would not be having any children of his own as a celibate priest,” said Don. “I told him, ‘If you’re able to do this and end up becoming a priest, you’ll be doing bigger and better things for our faith and in our church that will reach a lot further than our legacy.’”

Daniel Schmitz’s parents are similarly supportive.

“Daniel is one of our kids, so naturally we want him to be happy. And he really seems happy,” said Gail. “We love him, support him and pray for him.”

Seeing all the other seminarians at the Mass and luncheon was also inspiring to Don Schmidt.

“To see so many people realizing there’s more about life than making money and a living, and to see them taking their faith seriously, is really encouraging to me,” he said.

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THE LEAVEN • january 8, 2010

New Year’s vocation retreat provides support, fellowship

Archdiocesan Catholic High School Placement Exams St. Thomas Aquinas – 7:45 a.m. on Sat., Jan. 9, at 11411

Pflumm Rd., Overland Park. Bring two #2 pencils, a calculator, your Social Security number, and the $15 exam fee. No preregistration is necessary. Top scorers will receive freshman scholarships. For information, call the admissions office at (913) 319-2423 or visit the Web site at: www.stasaints.net.

By Kara Hansen Leaven staff

Kansas City, Kan. — Nineteen young men decided to forgo the traditional bowl games this year to start the New Year in a very different way — by attending a retreat designed to help them consider a vocation to the priesthood.

The Quo Vadis retreat — “Quo vadis” is Latin for “Where are you going?” — was held at Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kan., from Jan. 1-4. The retreat was designed to provide opportunities for young men ages 16 and older to consider more closely what kind of vocation God might be calling them to, and to learn more about seminary life and the priesthood. Events for the weekend included daily Mass, a daily Holy Hour, prayer, service, meals, and time for recreation.

“We did everything from having scheduled prayer and Liturgy of the Hours four times a day, which really helped — morning, daytime, evening, and right before bed,” said Anthony Mersmann, a 16-yearold parishioner at Holy Family Parish in Eudora who attended the retreat.

“And we were all together the whole time,” he added. “It was great for fellowship and gave us the chance to get to know seminarians and other guys discerning their call.”

Mersmann said he tries to attend a number of retreats to help keep his vocational discernment at the top of his priority list. He became interested in the Quo Vadis retreat after hearing about it from one of the seminarians at Camp Tekakwitha in Williamsburg last summer. Mersmann found the retreat to be particularly beneficial in helping him discern his vocation to the priesthood.

“It was significant for me; I got to experience the priesthood and the seminarian life like I have not before,” said Mersmann. “I got to talk to seminarians and had my own time to talk to the archbishop. That was very helpful.”

Though Mersmann said he had been considering a vocation to the priesthood since his freshman year of high school, he felt the retreat brought further clarity to his discernment.

“Before the retreat, I was confident God wants me to become a priest,” said Mersmann. “But this retreat brought it even further. It got me really excited.”

LOCAL NEWS 5

Bishop Miege – 8:30 a.m. on Sat., Jan. 9, at 5041 Reinhardt

Dr., Roeland Park. Bring two #2 pencils and the $15 exam fee. Calculators are not allowed. No preregistration is necessary. A pizza lunch will be provided after the exam. $500 - $1200 merit-based scholarships will be available for students who take the exam at Miege. A make-up exam will be offered at 8:30 a.m. on Jan. 16. For information, call the admissions office at (913) 262-2701, ext. 226, or visit the Web site at: www.bishopmiege.com.

Bishop Ward – 8 a.m. on Sat., Jan. 9 or Jan. 16, at 708 N.

18th St., Kansas City, Kan. Bring two #2 pencils and the $13 exam fee. No preregistration is necessary. Generous achievement and merit-based scholarships will be available to students who take the test. Parents are invited for a light breakfast, presentation and school tour at 8 a.m. For information, call the admissions office at (913) 371-6901, or visit the Web site at: www.wardhigh.org.

St. James Academy – 8:30 a.m. on Sat., Jan. 9, at 24505 Prairie Star Pkwy., Lenexa. Bring two #2 pencils, a calculator, and the $15 exam fee. No preregistration is necessary. A pizza lunch will be provided after the exam. Merit-based scholarships will be awarded to students who take the exam at St. James. A make-up exam will be given on Jan. 23. For information, call the admissions office at (913) 254-4200 or visit the Web site at: www.sjakeepingfaith.org.

Anthony Mersmann Mersmann said he would recommend the retreat and other activities offered by the archdiocesan vocations office to any young man thinking about the possibility of becoming a priest.

“If you are even considering a call to the priesthood or any vocation whatsoever, everybody starts out confused,” said Mersmann. “Nobody knows right away what their call is. These retreats . . . are amazing for your discernment.”

“Even when in seminary, it’s still a discernment process; you’re not being locked in in the slightest,” he continued.

“You’re just learning more about it and discovering what God wants you to do.”

In the meantime, Mersmann will take the retreat as one more milestone of encouragement on the road of his discernment. He plans and hopes to apply for Conception Seminary College this summer. In the meantime, he plans to keep in touch with Father Mitchel Zimmerman, director of the vocations office, and continue deepening his relationship with God. “I consider myself blessed because during the past two years my desire to serve God has only grown more and more,” said Mersmann. “I am also extremely grateful that my family and close friends are supportive of my decision to enter the seminary.”

Additional reporting by Joe Bollig.

Immaculata – 8 a.m. on Wed., Jan. 13, in the basement of St. Joseph Church, 306 N. Broadway, Leavenworth. Bring two #2 pencils. Students not attending eighth grade at Xavier Elementary School must register for the test by Jan. 11. Two $500 scholarships will be awarded to the top scorers. For information or to register, call (913) 682-3900 or visit the Web site at: www.imachighschool. org or www.leavenworthcatholicschools.org.

Sister Mary Rebecca Conner, SCL LEAVENWORTH — Sister Mary Rebecca 1946, and, as Sister Mary Rebecca, made her Conner, formerly Miriam Cecelia Conner, 85, a profession of vows on Aug. 15, 1948. She later Sister of Charity of earned a master’s degree in art from Notre Leavenworth, died Dame University in South Bend, Ind. Dec. 25, 2009, at A gifted and generous artist, Sister Mary the Sisters’ motherRebecca embarked on a teaching career that house here. touched the lives of many. She taught in high Miriam schools from 1948 to 1960. For the obituary Cecelia next 35 years, from 1960-1995, SisConner ter Mary Rebecca served as an art was born on Nov. 24, instructor and as associate professor of art at 1924, in Fort HuaSaint Mary College, Leavenworth, retiring in chuca, Ariz., one of the spring of 1995 as professor emeritus. She four children of Col. continued serving as a graphic design and art Leo B. and Miriam C. consultant until 2006, when she retired to Ross Morony Conner. After graduating from Saint Hall.

Mary College, Leavenworth, with a bachelor’s Survivors include a sister, Eileen Greene of degree, she entered the religious community of Alexandria, Va., and a brother, Leo Conner of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth on Aug. 1, Phoenix.

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6 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • January 8, 2010

Where do we go from here? Archbishop to lead pro-life forum

By Joe Bollig Leaven staff

SHAWNEE — The upcoming prolife forum and call to prayer on Jan. 17 at St. Joseph Parish here is named after the question pro-lifers have asked themselves all through 2009: Where do we go from here?

Giving up is not one of the options, said Ron Kelsey, archdiocesan prolife consultant.

“Christ doesn’t give us that choice,” said Kelsey. “We don’t have the choice of not protecting life from conception to natural death. We must be engaged in the battle, and never give up, as Winston Churchill said.”

The forum is in commemoration of the 37th anniversary of the 1973 U.S. Supreme Court ruling on abortion, Roe v. Wade. It will be held from 3 to 4:30 p.m. on Jan. 17 at St. Joseph Church, 11311 Johnson Drive.

In his presentation, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann will address the issues of moral principles for Catho-

lic voters, health care reform, and the Freedom of Choice Act. He will also answer questions submitted in advance. Following the presentation, the archbishop will preside over eucharistic adoration and the singing of the Divine Mercy chaplet.

Rather than being discouraged by the acts of an unfriendly presidential administration, pro-lifers are becoming more engaged, said Kelsey. The attacks on life have become stronger, but the Catholic voice for life is growing stronger, too.

“I think, because we’ve seen an escalation in the promotion of the socalled right to abortion, it has awakened or expanded the pro-life grassroots movement,” said Kelsey. “When we see such a strong assault on life, people wake up and say, ‘I’ve got to do something about it.’”

The surprisingly effective national postcard campaign against the Freedom of Choice Act is proof of the resilience of the pro-life movement, he said.

“We’re talking about one of the central values of our Catholic faith — that’s the value of life,” said Kelsey.

“It’s not something we can exercise our prudential judgment on and say, ‘Well, we can let this slide,’ or that there are different views,” he continued. “There are not different views.

We are all called to protect all innocent human beings. Our Christian vocation mandates we do that. Therefore, we will never go away.”

There is no charge to attend the forum and call to prayer. For information, contact Kelsey, via e-mail at: prolife@archkck.org, or by calling (913) 647-0350.

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Pope has one of his busiest years yet

By John Thavis

V

Catholic News Service

ATICAN CITY (CNS) — Looking back on 2009, it’s difficult to imagine a busier year for 82-yearold Pope Benedict XVI. The Year of St. Paul. The Year for Priests. A major social encyclical. A Holy Land pilgrimage. A first meeting with President Obama. Ten new saints. An African trip and an African synod. A Facebook debut. A controversial concession to Catholic traditionalists. An unexpected overture to disaffected Anglicans.

And those are just the highlights, of course. Being pope is a day-in, day-out ministry, and over the course of the past year Pope Benedict met with more than 200 dignitaries and groups, held talks with more than 300 bishops and celebrated more than 50 major liturgies.

The year brought moments of deep personal satisfaction, as when the German pontiff prayed in silence before Christ’s empty tomb in Jerusalem, or when he arrived on his first African visit to a tumultuous welcome by hundreds of thousands of Cameroon residents.

But the pope’s disappointment was also evident in 2009, in part because he felt misunderstood by some of his own faithful and the mass media over difficult decisions or statements.

In January, the pope announced that he was lifting the excommunications of four bishops of the Society of St. Pius X to open the way toward reconciliation talks with the traditionalist group — a move that had been opposed by some bishops in several countries.

Media attention quickly focused on the fact that one of the four, Bishop Richard Williamson, had given interviews denying the extent of the Holocaust. Suddenly the Germanborn pope was on the defensive, having to assure Jewish leaders and others that his initiative aimed at church unity and in no way represented a backtracking on the church’s teachings against anti-Semitism.

One of the most remarkable documents of 2009, in fact, was the pope’s subsequent letter to the world’s bishops expressing

his amazement that even some Catholics had misunderstood him and attacked him “with open hostility.”

The pope’s visit to Africa in March was a weeklong experience of intense liturgies, discussions with bishops and moving encounters with youth, the disabled and even a group of Pygmies.

But the media impact was overshadowed by the pope’s remarks to reporters on the first day of the trip, when he spoke of the church’s strategies against AIDS and said, “One cannot overcome the problem with the distribution of condoms.

On the contrary, they increase the problem.” The comment drew widespread criticism, although some experts agreed that over-reliance on condoms was a problem in African countries.

The Synod of Bishops for Africa in October brought the continent back into the Vatican spotlight.

The pope presided over the synod’s assemblies and, at the conclusion, received 57 pastoral proposals to elaborate into a future document on the church in Africa.

In May, Pope Benedict traveled to Jordan, Israel and Palestinian territories. The eight-day trip was a biblical pilgrimage, an interfaith mission and a political balancing act all rolled into one. The pontiff visited a mosque in the Jordanian capital, prayed at the Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial in Jerusalem, and blessed cornerstones for new Christian churches and facilities in the region.

In June, the pope closed the Year of St. Paul and opened the Year for Priests. In weekly talks and liturgical celebrations focusing on St.

2009 in review The Vatican Paul, the pope sketched a detailed portrait of the man considered the model of Christian conversion and the archetypal missionary.

In launching the Year for Priests, the pope said the church must acknowledge that some priests have done great harm to others, but it also must thank God for the gifts the majority of priests have given to the church and the world.

In July, the pope issued his longawaited encyclical on economic and social justice, “Charity in Truth.” It called for reform of international economic institutions and practices, and said the

global economic crisis stemmed in large part from the moral failures of greedy financiers and investors.

The pope gave a copy of his encyclical to President Barack Obama when the two leaders met for the first time at the Vatican in July, along with a copy of a recent Vatican document on biomedical ethics. In their private talks, which the Vatican said took place in an atmosphere of “great serenity and great cordiality,” the president “explicitly expressed his commitment to reducing the numbers of abortions and to listen to the church’s concerns on moral issues,” the Vatican said.

In September, Pope Benedict welcomed the new U.S. ambassador to the Vatican, Miguel Diaz, and in a speech outlined wide areas of potential cooperation with the Obama administration. At the same time, echoing concerns by U.S. church leaders, the pope called for respect for the life of the unborn and protection of the right to conscientious objection on the part of health care workers.

Among the new saints proclaimed by the pope in 2009 were two with strong U.S. connections: Father Damien de Veuster, the 19th-century Belgian missionary who ministered to people with leprosy in Hawaii, and Sister Jeanne Jugan, a French nun whose Little Sisters of the Poor continue to assist the elderly in the United States and more than 30 other countries.

In internal church matters, the pope in May ordered an apostolic visitation of the Legionaries of Christ and their institutions following disclosures of sexual impropriety by the order’s late founder, Father Marcial Maciel Degollado.

In October, the Vatican unveiled Pope Benedict’s new plan for welcoming Anglicans who want to be in full communion with the Roman Catholic Church while preserving aspects of their Anglican spiritual and liturgical heritage.

As the year wound to a close, the pope buffed up his “green” credentials in his message for World Peace Day 2010. The message said degradation of the environment is a pressing moral problem that threatens peace and human life itself, and called for action on a global and personal level.

Pope Benedict XVI waves as he takes in the panoramic view from Mount Nebo May 9 in Madaba, Jordan. The place where Moses glimpsed the Promised Land before dying is marked by a modern sculpture of the prophet’s serpentine staff. Pope Benedict’s pastoral visit to the Holy Land was one of the highlights of the year.

Catholic

By Nancy Frazier O’Brien

A

CNS photo/Shannon Stapleton, Reuters

Eric Lipps, 52, waits in line to enter the NYCHires Job Fair in New York Dec. 9. The current unemployment rate for the entire nation is now at 10 percent.

Economic woes affect society and church

By Mark Pattison

T

Catholic News Service

imes, as they say, are tough all over. And the economic troubles that have beset the United States, and much of the rest of the world, as a persistent recession reached its second anniversary also have touched the church.

At one point in 2008, Michigan and Rhode Island were the states with the highest unemployment rate in the nation at 10.2 percent. By the end of October 2009, the unemployment rate for the entire nation had reached 10.2 percent, before dipping slightly the following month.

A $787 billion federal stimulus package has probably created many jobs and saved many others, but the effort to quantify exactly how many jobs has been the subject of partisan wrangling.

The national debt, which reached $12 trillion close to the end of 2009, has given lawmakers pause on whether they should pursue a new stimulus package or figure out how to pay for a host of other initiatives, including climate-change measures to reduce pollution, health care reform and even a troop buildup in Afghanistan.

Dioceses and Catholic organizations have not been immune from the dilemma of how to pay the bills at a time of increased need and decreased assets.

“The requests are up, generally, and we’re just finding that charities are having a much tougher time this year than they have in the past, and we’re even seeing some groups closing, which we haven’t seen before.

It’s sad,” said Frank Butler, executive director of Foundations and Donors Interested in Catholic Activities, an umbrella group of about 40 Catholic philanthropic organizations.

The latest victim was the National Pastoral Life Center, which was forced by a gradual decline in funding to close its doors at the end of November.

2009

in review The Economy The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, despite having approved a 2009 budget in November 2008, found that economic conditions had deteriorated so rapidly that a month later it instituted a budget and wage freeze for 2009. In November 2009, the bishops OK’d a 2010 budget with an increase of 0.2 percent — and allowing for the possibility of a 1 percent raise for most of its employees.

Some individual dioceses have had a particularly rough time.

The Archdiocese of Detroit, saying it was losing $42,000 a day and was on track to exhaust its cash reserves in 2011, slashed about one-third of its paid staff and imposed several other austerity measures. Michigan’s unemployment rate had climbed to 15 percent, while the unemployment rate in Detroit, which had been battered by the woes of the auto industry, was at 25 percent.

One sign of the weak U.S. economy was the reduced number of immigrants coming to the United States.

Some estimates placed the drop at 40 percent. Moreover, The New York Times reported that in some cases, Mexicans were sending money to their cash-strapped U.S.-based relations, reversing a long-standing tradition.

Pope Benedict XVI in July issued a new encyclical, “Caritas in Veritate” (Charity in Truth), in which he touched upon some points of economics.

When business leaders make themselves exclusively answerable to their investors, they limit their enterprise’s social value and often sacrifice longterm sustainability for short-term profits, Pope Benedict said. He wrote that outsourcing labor to other parts

of the globe should be limited in nature and only done when it is advantageous to the economic welfare of all involved.

“Labor and technical knowledge are a universal good,” the pope said in the encyclical. “Yet it is not right to export these things merely for the sake of obtaining advantageous conditions, or worse, for purposes of exploitation, without making a real contribution to local society by helping to bring about a robust productive and social system, an essential factor for stable development.”

Flying to the Czech Republic for a pastoral visit in September, the pope said he was happy with the debate engendered by the encyclical, adding that his aim was “to initiate and motivate a discussion about these problems, to not let things be as they are, but to find new models of a responsible economy both in individual countries and for the whole of humanity.”

It seems glaringly evident today, he said, that ethics should not be excluded from the economy. The pope added that economic systems “do not work if they do not take into account the human values of solidarity and mutual responsibility.”

Volunteers at the U.S.-Mexico border voiced fears that the slumping economy was bringing about an increase in domestic violence, especially among immigrant populations.

Children, too, were vulnerable to the ongoing slump. The Child and Youth Well-Being Index, compiled each year since 1975 by Kenneth Land, a sociology professor at Duke University, showed that the quality of life for children had dropped significantly since its peak in 2000 and was expected to decline further as long as the economy continued its tailspin.

The immediate outlook, according to FADICA’s Butler, was not good.

“The climate is a real tough one in the whole nonprofit sector, both for the donors and for the nonprofit groups.”

Catholic News Service

lthough the ultimate fate of health reform legislation in the U.S. Congress remained up in the air at the end of 2009, one thing is certain: With their unequivocal call to keep the legislation abortion-neutral, the U.S. bishops had a strong influence on the debate.

The role of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops in the debate over health care reform drew criticism and praise, depending primarily on where the commentators stood of the abortion issue.

Rep. Bart Stupak, D-Mich., a Catholic who was the main sponsor of an amendment keeping the status quo on abortion funding in House health reform legislation, said the calls and letters to members of Congress from Catholic leaders and pro-life organizations were very helpful in persuading 64 Democrats to support his amendment.

But Rep. Patrick Kennedy, a Catholic Democrat from Rhode Island who supports keeping abortion legal, sharply criticized the bishops for their stance, saying they were fanning “the flames of dissent and discord” by insisting that health reform not expand abortion funding beyond the current, extremely limited circumstances.

“I can’t understand for the life of me how the Catholic Church could be against the biggest social justice issue of our time, where the very dignity of the human person is being respected by the fact that we’re caring and giving health care” to the millions of people who are currently uninsured, Kennedy said in an

Religion, p

By Carol Zimmermann

R

Catholic News Service

eligion and politics met head-on this year, with abortion often at the center of the debate, but church-state tensions also arose over public displays of religious symbols, threats to the free exercise of religion and concerns about protecting the conscience rights of health care providers.

Abortion was a key issue in the debate about health care reform and sparked an exchange of remarks between at least one Catholic politician and his bishop.

During the House debate, Rep. Patrick Kennedy, D-R.I., criticized the U.S. bishops for threatening to oppose health reform unless the legislation banned the use of federal funds to cover abortion. He said their stance was “fanning the flames of dissent and discord.”

The House, unlike the Senate, ultimately passed an amendment to ban abortion funding in the final health care bill its members approved, but Kennedy’s remarks, and his vote against the amendment, drew reaction from Bishop Thomas J. Tobin of Providence, R.I., who demanded Kennedy apologize for his comments.

In an interview with The Providence Journal daily newspaper, Kennedy made public a private request from the bishop in 2007 that he not receive Communion because of his stand on abortion. Bishop Tobin told The Rhode Island Catholic, diocesan newspaper, saying he made the request based on the congressman’s “con-

influence seen in House health bill, but final fate unclear

2009 in review Healthcare

CNS photo/Lucy Nicholson, Reuters

Uninsured patient Donaji Cruz, 3, has her height measured during a health checkup at Venice Family Clinic in Venice, Calif., in this June 25 file photo. Some 47 million Americans are uninsured and have little access to the health care system. interview with Cybercast News Service.

Bishop Thomas J. Tobin of Providence, R.I., called Kennedy’s comments “irresponsible and ignorant of the facts” and although the two planned a meeting, it had not happened as of Dec. 22.

There was widespread agreement with the often-repeated calls by the USCCB, Catholic Health Association, Catholic Charities USA and other Catholic groups for action this year to help the nation’s estimated 46.3 million uninsured.

In messages to the House, Senate and White House in May, the bishops called health care “a basic human right and a requirement to protect the life and dignity of every person.”

“All people need and should have access to comprehensive, quality health care that they can afford, and this should not depend on their stage of life, where or whether they or their parents work, how much they earn, or where they live or where they come from,” said a letter signed by Bishop William F. Murphy of Rockville Centre, N.Y., chairman of the USCCB Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development.

From May to December, the myriad health reform proposals narrowed down to the Affordable Health Care for America Act, which passed in the House of Representatives Nov. 7 by a vote of 220215, and the Senate’s Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, which was ex-

pected to come up for a vote Dec. 24.

Throughout the year, Catholic leaders repeatedly insisted that the bills must exclude abortion funding and urged changes in the bills’ provisions on immigrants and affordability for lowincome Americans.

“Failure to exclude abortion funding will turn allies into adversaries and require us and others to oppose this bill because it abandons both principle and precedent,” said Cardinal Francis E. George of Chicago, USCCB president, after the Senate voted Dec. 8 to table an abortion-funding amendment similar to the one passed in the House a month earlier.

A compromise on abortion funding contained in a manager’s amendment to the Senate bill was deemed unacceptable by the heads of three USCCB committees, who said in a Dec. 19 statement that the Senate bill “should not move forward in its current form.” But the bill survived two test votes, and was approved.

In the new year, a House-Senate conference committee will begin work on health reform, with votes required in each house of Congress on a compromise version before a bill could head to President Barack Obama for his signature.

Although the economic downturn made finding affordable health care

even more difficult for many Americans, there were signs of hope for the nation’s children.

A study released Dec. 8 by the Kaiser Commission on Medicaid and the Uninsured found that “most states in 2009 continued to expand and simplify their Medicaid and CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program) programs . . . even as they faced the bleakest economic picture in years and severe budget pressures.”

Twenty-six states improved their coverage of children, their parents and/or pregnant women by expanding eligibility, simplifying enrollment procedures or eliminating premiums, the study found.

Diane Rowland, executive director of the Kaiser commission, warned however that even with signs of an economic recovery, “fiscal shortfalls are likely to cause states to consider significant cuts to Medicaid and CHIP,” especially when economic stimulus funds to certain state programs end after 2010.

But a reformed health care system, the picture in 2011 could be quite different.

Writing in early December in Catholic Health World, Sister Carol Keehan, a Daughter of Charity who is CHA president and CEO, said “the really hard part” of the reform process had arrived.

“This is a historic opportunity for our country, both for those with and those without insurance,” she said. “We must stay in the effort. It will take energy, commitment and good will on the part of everyone involved. Let us redouble our efforts and prayers for good health care reform now.”

politics meet head-on in 2009 over abortion, other issues sistent actions,” but did it confidentially and had no intention of making it public.

The exchange between Kennedy and Bishop Tobin took place just two months after the death of the congressman’s famous father, Sen. Edward M. “Ted” Kennedy, D-Mass.

Even in death, the senator represented the tensions between Catholic politicians and the church over the abortion issue.

He stood with the church on a wide range of issues from immigration reform to the minimum wage during his lengthy Senate tenure, but his legislative support of legal abortion prompted some critics to say that giving him a Catholic funeral was a scandal to the church.

Abortion also was at the center of criticism of the University of Notre Dame for inviting President Barack Obama, who supports legal abortion and embryonic stem-cell research, to deliver the commencement address and receive an honorary degree.

After his speech, Cardinal Francis E. George of Chicago, president of the U.S. bishops, and two members of Congress urged Obama to make good on a point he made, namely that he wished to “honor the conscience of those who disagree with abortion.”

Cardinal George said health care professionals and institutions “should know that their deeply held religious or moral convictions will be respected as they exercise their right to serve patients in need.”

He also said that among their other concerns about health reform, the bish-

ops would continue to insist that reform could not include abortion funding and would protect conscience rights.

Belmont Abbey College in Belmont, N.C., was one Catholic institution that found its religious beliefs challenged this year when the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission said the institution’s failure to offer employees coverage of prescription contraceptives discriminated against women.

William Thierfelder, college president, said Belmont Abbey was adhering to Catholic teaching against artificial contraception and exercising the freedom of religion guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution. The college, which hopes the EEOC will change its ruling, changed its health care coverage in 2007 to exclude oral contraceptives, abortions, vasectomies and tubal ligations.

The controversy at Belmont Abbey was just one of the issues mentioned in a November press conference in Washington announcing the Manhattan Declaration — a joint statement signed by more than 140 Christian leaders pledging renewed zeal in defending the unborn, defining marriage as a union between a man and a woman and protecting religious freedom.

The document also mentioned the possibility of civil disobedience, if necessary, to defend beliefs.

Washington Archbishop Donald W. Wuerl, one of the signers, said he hoped that step would not be necessary.

The marriage issue in particular was a focus in the District of Columbia, as the

2009

in review Church & State

CNS photo/Robert Galbraith, Reuters

A supporter of Proposition 8 holds a sign as people wait in line to enter the California Supreme Court hearing on same-sex marriages in San Francisco March 5. Approved by California voters in November, Proposition 8 defines marriage as the union between one man and one woman.

The voter initiative overturned a May 2008 state supreme court decision legalizing gay marriage.

City Council approved a bill Dec. 15 to make same-sex legal. The bill will become law next spring if it survives a 30-day congressional review process.

The Washington Archdiocese opposed any effort to redefine marriage as other

than that between a man and a woman.

The Catholic Church teaches that marriage is a permanent union between one man and one woman.

Archdiocesan officials also argued that the bill would restrict the free exercise of religion and would affect the ability of its agency Catholic Charities to work with the city in serving the poor.

The year’s church-state tensions started with the New York City Council being urged to revise a policy that bans Nativity scenes in city public schools, while allowing holiday displays of Jewish and Muslim religious symbols. But other discussions about public displays of religious symbols found their way to the U.S. Supreme Court.

In February the high court ruled that a public park in Utah that displays a Ten Commandments monument was not legally required to accept another religious monument under the free speech clause of the First Amendment. In October, the court heard oral arguments about whether a cross could be displayed on a war memorial on federal land in a remote California desert.

Notable Catholics who died in 2009

By Mark Pattison

T

2009

Catholic News Service

he deaths of two members of the Kennedy family two weeks apart in August stand out in a series of notable obituaries of Catholics who frequently made news headlines during their lives.

Sen. Edward M. “Ted” Kennedy, 77, a Democrat who served 47 years as a U.S. senator from Massachusetts, died Aug. 25 at his home on Cape Cod after a yearlong battle with a malignant brain tumor.

He had stepped into the spotlight as a member of one of the United States’ most famous families, Catholic or otherwise, after the assassinations of his two older brothers, President John F. Kennedy and Sen. Robert Kennedy.

Kennedy’s sister, Special Olympics founder Eunice Kennedy Shriver, died Aug. 11 at age 88, also on Cape Cod. She had been in failing health after suffering a couple of strokes in recent years and had been hospitalized several days before her death.

Sen. Kennedy stood with the church on a wide range of issues from immigration reform to the minimum wage during his lengthy Senate tenure, but his legislative support of legal abortion prompted some critics to say that giving him a Catholic funeral was a scandal to the church. But canon lawyers and others said a Catholic funeral for Kennedy was appropriate under church law.

Cardinal Sean P. O’Malley of Boston presided at the funeral, and Cardinal Theodore E. McCarrick, the retired archbishop of Washington, officiated at the family-only burial service in Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.

In a letter to Shriver’s family, Archbishop Pietro Sambi, apostolic nuncio to the United States, said she was “a woman of ardent faith and generous public service” in her work with the developmentally and physically disabled. He added Pope Benedict XVI “unites himself spiritually with each of you at this difficult time, holding close to his heart Eunice as she is called home to eternal life and trusting in the words of sacred Scripture: ‘What will separate us from the love of Christ?’”

Other notable Catholics who died in 2009 included: • Father Richard John Neuhaus, 72, a former Lutheran minister who became a Catholic priest and was a staunch defender of church teaching on abortion and other life issues and founder and editor in chief of the journal First Things, of complications from cancer, Jan. 8.

• Italian Cardinal Pio Laghi, 86, a former apostolic delegate to the United States 1980-84, then nuncio to the U.S. 1984-90, who Cardinal Pio Laghi tried to convince President George W. Bush not to invade Iraq in 2003, of a blood disorder, Jan. 10.

• Irish actor Patrick McGoohan, 80, best known to television audiences for his title roles in the 1960s’ CBS drama series “Secret Agent” and “The Prisoner,” in Los Angeles, Jan. 13.

• Mexican-born actor Ricardo

in review Deaths

Senator Edward Kennedy (above) and Eunice Kennedy Shriver (right) died in 2009.

Montalban, 88, best known for his role as Mr. Roarke on TV’s “Fantasy Island” and as a pitchman for the Chrysler Cordoba, at his Los Angeles home after suffering from congestive heart failure, Jan. 14.

• Retired Belgian Archbishop Jean Jadot, 99, former apostolic delegate in the United States 1973-80 and later pro-president of what is now the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue, at his home in Brussels, Jan. 21.

• Retired Bishop Thomas A. Tschoepe of Dallas, 93, after a lengthy illness, in Dallas, Jan. 24.

• Father Rollins Lambert, 86, the first African-American to be ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of Chicago, in Palos Park, Ill., Jan. 25.

• Cardinal Stephen Kim Sou-hwan, 86, Korea’s first cardinal, the longestserving cardinal at the time of his death, an outspoken defender of human rights and one of a shrinking number of cardinals elevated to the College of Cardinals by Pope Paul VI — whose number includes Pope Benedict XVI — in Seoul, South Korea, Feb. 16.

• Retired Bishop Thomas J. Welsh, 87, who headed the Diocese of Allentown, Pa., for 15 years and was founding bishop of the Diocese of Arlington, Va., in Allentown after a short illness, Feb. 19.

• Sulpician Father Joseph C. Martin, 84, a noted authority and lecturer on alcoholism who co-founded Father Martin’s Ashley addiction treatment center in Havre de Grace, Md., from complications of heart disease, in Havre de Grace, March 9.

• Cardinal Umberto Betti, 87, a Franciscan who served as a theological expert at the Second Vatican Council and later as a consultant to the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, in Fiesole, Italy, April 1.

• Franciscan Sister Jose Hobday, 80, a Seneca tribal elder and a popular author, storyteller and lecturer on prayer and spirituality, at the Casa de la Luz Hospice in Tucson, Ariz., April 5.

• Benedictine Sister Jose Hobday Father Theodore Heck, 108, who had been the world’s oldest Benedictine monk, in Indiana, April 29.

• Dom DeLuise, 75, the comic actor who starred in several Mel Brooks

movies plus the “Cannonball Run” and “Smokey and the Bandit” film franchises, mastered the double-take look of surprise on film, in Santa Monica, Calif., after a long illness, May 4.

• Norbertine Father Robert J. Cornell, 89, one of only three priests ever to serve in the U.S. Congress — he served two terms, was defeated in his bid for a third term and forbidden by his bishop to seek his seat once more — in De Pere, Wis., May 10.

• Oblate Father Lawrence Rosebaugh, 74, a U.S. priest with a long history of taking risks to aid the poor and marginalized, killed in a highway robbery in Guatemala, May 18.

• Redemptorist Father Norman Muckerman, 92, a former editor of Liguorian magazine and a former president of the Catholic Press Association, at St. Clement’s Health Care Center in Liguori, Mo., after a long illness, May 19.

• Haitian Father Gerard JeanJuste, 62, a passionate advocate for the poor and impoverished in Haiti and a longtime supporter of former priest and exiled Haitian President Jean-Bertrand Aristide, of complications from a stroke and a lung problem, in a Miami hospital, May 27.

• Passionist Father Thomas Berry, 94, internationally regarded as the dean of those working to relate ecology to spirituality, in Greensboro, N.C., June 1.

• Father Timothy Vakoc, 49, who was seriously injured — including brain damage and the loss of an eye — in a 2004 bomb blast in Iraq after celebrating Mass for U.S. soldiers, in New Hope, Minn., June 20.

• Ethel M. Gintoft, 83, the first woman to head the Catholic Press Association and the 20-year associate publisher and executive editor of

the Catholic Herald, newspaper of the Milwaukee Archdiocese, in Milwaukee, June 24.

• Farrah Fawcett, 62, best known for her TV roles on the series “Charlie’s Angels” and the made-for-TV movie “The Burning Bed,” after a three-year battle with cancer, in Los Angeles, June 25.

• Cardinal Jean Margeot, 93, retired bishop of Port Louis, Mauritius, July 17.

• Father Raymond H. Reis, 104, a longtime professor at St. Louis University and the world’s oldest Jesuit, in St. Louis, July 19.

• Robert NoFather Raymond Reis vak, 78, a longtime syndicated columnist and political commentator who joined the Catholic Church in 1998, after battling brain cancer for more than a year, in Washington, Aug. 18.

• Robert Schindler Sr., 71, father of the late Terri Schiavo and who was at the center of a lengthy legal battle that resulted in a Florida court ordering her feeding tube removed, from heart failure, in St. Petersburg, Fla., Aug. 29.

• Msgr. Lawrence J. Corcoran, 92, who served from 1965 to 1982 as executive secretary of the National Conference of Catholic Charities, forerunner to today’s Catholic Charities USA, in Columbus, Ohio, Aug. 31.

• Bishop Bartholomew Yu Chengti of Hanzhong, China, 90, a Vaticanapproved bishop who had ministered in the clandestine Catholic community since he was secretly ordained a bishop in 1981, of stomach cancer, in Hanzhong, Sept. 14.

• Henry Gibson, 73, a fixture on the TV smash “Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-In” with his offbeat poems and deadpan delivery, in Malibu, Calif., of cancer, Sept. 14.

• Retired Bishop Michael A. Saltarelli of Wilmington, Del., 77, who led the diocese through 12 years of significant growth and unprecedented challenges, in Newark, Del., Oct. 8.

• Bishop G. Patrick Ziemann, 68, who resigned as head of the Diocese of Santa Rosa, Calif., in 1999 after admitting a homosexual relationship with one of his priests, of complications from pancreatic cancer, at a Benedictine monastery in St. David, Ariz., Oct. 22.

• Jesuit Father Thomas P. O’Malley, 79, who served as president of John Carroll University in Cleveland, 198088, and of Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, 1991-99, of an apparent heart attack, in Chestnut Hill, Mass., Nov. 4.

• William A. Wilson, 95, the first U.S. ambassador to the Vatican (198486) after Congress restored full diplomatic relations with the Holy See, and for three years prior was President Ronald Reagan’s personal envoy to the Vatican, of cancer, in Carmel, Calif., Dec. 5.

THE LEAVEN • january 8, 2010

Local news 11

What’s a teen to do?

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — What is a teen to do now that the National Catholic Youth Conference is over?

There are plenty of things coming up, but here are some of the biggies: • Join tens of thousands of your fellow pro-life friends for a frolic down the chilly avenues of our nation’s capital during the 37th annual March for Life, Jan. 20-23, in Washington, D.C. • If you want to walk a shorter distance, check out Teens Encounter Christ, Jan. 23-25, at Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kan. • Nor is it too early to think about Camp Tekakwitha. Registration is Feb. 1-8.

• Also at Prairie Star Ranch near Williamsburg will be the annual junior high student rally on Feb. 28.

• Finally, if you missed the first TEC, the second will be held March 6-8 at Prairie Star Ranch.

For information about these and other upcoming youth events, contact Rick Cheek, via e-mail at: youth2@archkck.org, or by calling (913) 647-0351.

P

lease join thousands in the Archdiocese this weekend — January 9 and 10 — to hear a homily by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann at your parish Mass. For more information visit www.calltoshare.org.

12 CLASSIFIEDS

THE LEAVEN • JANUARY 8, 2009

Employment

cleanup. Free consultation. References. Greater KC area.

Call Twila at Elegant Wedding Decor at (913) 724-1408.

Looking for an opportunity to earn some extra money for vacations or home improvement projects? - The United States census team is currently

Computer help! - 20+ years of experience. I can fix slow systems, secure networks, set up a home server, establish Internet security, provide technology refresh, eliminate virus/malware issues, and do data recovery. Call Dan O’Boyle at (913) 707-5020.

Initial first half-hour is free.

looking for applicants for the 2010 Census. As a census worker, you will work in your own neighborhoods and communities; earn $14.75 an hour; get paid weekly; work flexible hours; receive paid training; receive reimbursement for authorized mileage and other workrelated expenses. This is an excellent opportunity for college students and high school students that are at least 18 years of age. For information, call Debbie Van Blaricum at (913) 764-4852.

Principal - Queen of the Holy Rosary Elementary School, Bucyrus, is seeking a dynamic Catholic school principal for the 2010 - 2011 academic year who embraces the Catholic faith and possesses spiritual leadership skills blended with strong instructional leadership and managerial skills. Holy Rosary serves 285 students and employs 24 teachers in grades PreK - 8, and is looking for an excellent communicator who can build upon the strong Catholic identity and academic programming that is a hallmark of the school. In order to be successful at this effort, the principal will need to have an energetic and creative approach to reaching the entire Holy Rosary community. Principal applicants must be practicing Catholics and hold an administrative license from the Kansas State Department of Education. Interested individuals should complete the principal application available on the Web Site at: www.archkckcs.org. Applications are due by Jan. 22. For information or questions, contact Dr. Kathleen O’Hara, Superintendent of Schools, Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, at (913) 721-1570 or send an e-mail to her at: kohara@archkckcs.org.

Financial representative - Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding financial representatives in the Kansas City and Emporia areas. This position is ideal for a determined, high-energy, high-expectation, professional, self-disciplined, independent individual desiring to serve others, yet earn a better-than-average income.

We provide top-rated financial products to our members and their families and will provide excellent benefits and training. For more information or an interview, contact John A. Mahon, 307 Dakota, Holton KS 66436; or call (785) 364-5450.

Services Are you facing divorce, layoff, foreclosure, or bankruptcy? - Consider financial coaching to turn your situation around. Guiding you through a 7-step program toward financial peace and prosperity. For a free confidential consultation, contact Denise Bergin, CPA at (785) 760-0065 or send an e-mail to her at: jayhawktax @sunflower.com.

Serving Kansas City, Lawrence, and Topeka.

Counseling - Confidential and affordable individual, marriage and family counseling and outpatient substance abuse treatment. JB Strong, MA, LCPC, AAPS (913) 722-1118.

Machine quilting - by Jenell Noeth, Basehor. Also, quilts made to order. Call (913) 724-1837.

Wedding decorations - Relax, I decorate for church, receptions, anniversaries and parties. Includes

Husband and wife cleaning team - Reasonable

rates; references provided. Call (913) 940-2959.

Housecleaning - I will clean your house the oldfashioned way – hand mopping, etc. 20+ years experience, excellent references, free estimates. Call Sharon at (816) 322-0006.

Granite, Cambria and Silestone countertops See our new showroom at 5820 Barton, in the heart of beautiful downtown Shawnee. Call The Top Shop, Inc., at (816) 898-8685 or (913) 962-5058. Member of St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.

Bankruptcy - When debt becomes overwhelming, seek professional help. Experienced, compassionate Catholic attorney Teresa Kidd. For a confidential, no obligation consultation, call (913) 422-0610; or send an e-mail to: tkidd@kc.rr.com.

Do you intend to leave a Catholic charity in your will? What are you waiting for? The Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas helps people with

charitable intent to put their instructions into place. We help stretch your gift further and last longer for the people you love and the causes you care about. For a free, confidential consultation call (913) 647-0365 or for free estate planning information, visit the Web site at: www.cfnek.org.

Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation to the elderly and disabled in home, assisted living and nursing facilities. We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Andrea, Sara or Gary.

Do you or your parents need help at home?

- For as little as $60 per week, Benefits of HomeSenior Care can provide assistance with personal care, shopping and many other daily needs. For details, visit our Web site at: benefitsofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591.

Home Improvement Woodbright - A very affordable alternative to refinishing, refacing or replacing stained cabinets and woodwork. The average kitchen only costs $500. 18 years experience. Call Woodbright at (913) 940-3020.

STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Call for free estimates.

Cell: (913) 579-1835; phone: (913) 491-5837; e-mail: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity Church, Lenexa.

House painting - Interior and exterior; wallpaper removal. 20 years experience. Reasonable rates. References. Call Joe at (913) 620-5776.

Want to help someone heal from an abortion?

Call Toll Free 888-246-1504

ERA Manning & Associates, Inc. 9870 Quivira Rd. Lenexa, KS 66215 Office: (913) 754-3106 Residence: (913) 492-8649 E-Mail: don@dkmayerteam.com Web Site: www.dkmayerteam.com Don & Kathy Mayer

Your Catholic connection to residential real estate.

Multiple listing service

MLS™

Each ERA® Office is Independently Owned and Operated

Painting, exterior and interior, drywall projects, powerwashing, rotted window sills repaired - Quality products. 20 years experience. References. Call (913) 341-7584.

Bath, kitchen and basement remodels -Quality work; reasonable prices. 25 yrs. experience. Free estimates. JoCo area. Call Ralph at (913) 707-9589.

Tim the Handyman - Insured; free estimates.

Carpentry: new and repair deck, doors, windows, siding, screens. Plumbing: faucet, garbage disposals, toilets. Electrical: switches, outlets, ceiling fans, light fixtures. Light landscape: fill dirt, trimming, planting, garden tilling and mulching. Serving Johnson County.

Call Tim at (913) 859-0471.

Electrician - Free estimates; reasonable rates.

JoCo and southern KC metro area. Call Pat at (913) 963-9896.

Adept Home Improvements Where quality still counts!

Basement finishing, Kitchens and baths, Electrical and plumbing.

Licensed and insured.

(913) 599-7998

Brown’s Carpet - Installation and repair carpeting; vinyl and wood installation. Free estimates. 10 years experience. Serving the KC metro area. Call (913) 231-4961.

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

Call Lupe at (816) 252-3376 Swalms Organizing Service - Basements, garages, attics, and shop spaces organized! Items sorted, boxed & labeled; areas cleaned when finished! Clean out services also available. Great references and insured. For pictures of current projects, visit the Web site at: www.swalms.com. Call Tillar Swalm at (913) 375-9115.

For Rent Living at its best on a budget! - 1 BR apt., with rent based on income; all utilities paid; no voucher needed. Section 8 assistance. Great location, only 5-10 minutes from The Legends in Kansas City, Kan. Edwardsville Court Apartments Highrise, 531 S. 4th St., Edwardsville. Call (913) 441-6007. EHO. Handicap accessible.

Vacation Ski week in Winter Park, Colo. - $100 per night!

Feb. 27 - March 6, 2010. Very nice condo that sleeps 6, with 2 BR, 2 BA, kitchen, and a fireplace. Usually rents for $299 per night. Call (913) 649-7596.

Ski cabin in Winter Park, Colo. – 2 BR, 1 BA, on free ski shuttle route. $110/night. Call (913) 6423027. To view pictures, visit the Web site at: cabin.

forcadeassociates.com.

Ski vacation - Winter Park, Colo. 2 BR, 1 BA, sleeps 6. Fully furnished, fireplace, rec. center with pool & hot tub. $125/night; $750/week. Call Joe Frederick at (913) 385-5589.

Real Estate Villa for sale – Maintenance-provided ranch home with 2 BR, 2 BA, and a sunroom, located in Shawnee at Town & Country Villas. $209,900. www.VillasKC.com. Call Marisa with Kansas Land Brokers at (913) 915-9151.

For sale Residential lifts - Buy/sell/trade. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. Recycled and new equipment. Member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood. Call Silver Cross KC at (913) 393-2042.

Wanted to buy ***WANTED*** I buy coins, older watches, silverware, slot machines, old rifles and shotguns, stoneware crocks and jugs, old furniture from basement or attic.

Call Chris at (913) 593-7507 or (913) 642-8269 Will buy firearms and related accessories One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee. *** Wanted to Buy *** Antique and vintage costume jewelry Member St. Joseph Parish Renee Maderak (913) 631-7179

Miscellaneous Freedom from pornography - Men’s group and counseling; call Sam Meier, MA, LPC, at (913) 6470378. Women’s group; call Beth Meier, MA, at (913) 647-0379. Visit the Web site at: LoveIsFaithful.com.

Entertainment Disc jockey - For your wedding, kolos, nightclubs, corporate parties, teenage celebrations, holiday parties, sock-hops, ethnic, birthdays, holiday parties, hiphop/rap, golden oldies. Member of St. Therese Parish, KCMO. Call Zepster’s A to Z Party DJ’s at (816) 741-4777.

To purchase a classified ad: Send an e-mail to: jennifer@theleaven.com, or call (913) 647-0327. The cost is $16 per column inch, five lines or less. Each additional line is $1.50.

THE LEAVEN • JANUARY 8, 2010

9

Jan.

Holy Spirit Parish, Overland Park, invites all college-age alumni to be a part of our 25th anniversary celebration! Join us for 5 p.m. Mass on Jan. 9, followed by pizza and fellowship in St. Elizabeth Hall. Reconnect with old Holy Spirit friends before heading back to school. To RSVP, send an e-mail to: hkinkade@hsschool.net.

St. Thomas Aquinas High School will offer an eighth-grade placement exam at 8 a.m. on Jan. 9. Students are asked to bring two No. 2 pencils, a calculator, social security number, and $15 exam fee. No preregistration required. A pizza luncheon will be served following the test. A makeup exam will be offered on Jan. 23. For information, call Diane Pyle, admissions director, at (913) 319-2423 or send an e-mail to her at: dpyle@stasaints.net.

10

Mother Teresa of Calcutta Parish, 2014 N.W. 46th St., Topeka, will host exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Benediction and a Divine Mercy Holy Hour at 3 p.m. on Jan. 10. Fellowship will follow.

For information, call (785) 246-1338 or (785) 246-1295.

The Worldwide Marriage Encounter community will host a Mass at 2 p.m. on Jan. 10 at Savior Pastoral Center, 12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kan. Families are welcome. A reception will follow Mass.

12

A diabetes education and support group will meet on Jan. 12 and on every second Monday of the month from 1 - 2:30 p.m. at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/kwc.

13

“Active Parenting,” a parenting program recommended for parents of children age 5 - 12, will be offered from 9:30 - 11 a.m. on Wednesdays, Jan. 13 - 27, at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/kwc.

15

Join the Topeka Catholic Singles Fellowship for a hockey game at the Topeka Expo Center on Jan. 15 at 6:15 p.m. For information, call John at (785) 273-2018.

16

The Catholic Charities Foundation of Northeast Kansas will host its 36th annual Snowball on Jan. 16 at the Crown Center Exhibition Hall at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, Kansas City, Mo. This black-tie evening will feature cocktails, dinner and dancing.

For reservations or information, call (913) 433-2046 or visit the Web site at: www. catholiccharitiessnowball.org.

A memorial liturgy for deceased loved ones will be held at 8 a.m. on Jan. 16 at Curé of Ars Church, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood.

The bereavement ministry will have its monthly meeting following Mass in the Father Burak Room. The topic will be “Habits of Healthy Grieving.” For information, call (913) 649-2026.

The Shawnee Knights of Columbus will hold their annual basketball free throw contest for boys and girls ages 10 to 14 at 8:30 a.m. on Jan. 16 in the St. Joseph Parish (small) gym, located at 11525 Johnson Dr., Shawnee. Participants will be required to present a copy of their birth certificate and have parental permission to compete. There is no entry fee. High school athletes are advised to check possible eligibility conflicts with their coaches. For information, call event chairman Robin Mika at (913) 268-9934.

17

The Topeka Catholic Singles Fellowship will gather for a matinee movie at 2:30 p.m. on Jan. 17. For information, call John at (785) 273-2018.

Join Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann for a pro-life forum, eucharistic adoration and a Divine Mercy chaplet from 3 - 4:30 p.m. on Jan. 17 at St. Joseph Parish, 11311 Johnson Dr., Shawnee. For information, contact Ron Kelsey, of the archdiocesan pro-life office, at (913) 647-0350 or send an e-mail to him at: prolife@archkck.org.

The Knights of Columbus, Unity Council No. 709, will host an international breakfast from 8 - 11 a.m. on Jan. 17 in the St. John the Evangelist Church hall, 2910 Strong Ave, Kansas City, Kan. The cost is $6 per person; children under five eat free.

21

A healing Mass, sponsored by archdiocesan charismatic prayer groups, will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Jan. 21 at Curé of Ars Church, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood. Fellowship follows. For information, call (913) 6492026.

22

Get set for a fun-filled night of trivia competition! St. Thomas Aquinas High School alumni, parents, staff, alumni parents and friends are invited to trivia night on Jan. 30 at 7 p.m. in the auxiliary gym. The cost is $15 per person. Register via the Web site at: www.stasaints.net. Reservations are required by Jan. 22. Bring your own beverage, appetizers or snacks to share. Prizes will be awarded for the best decorated team table, trivia winner and runner-up teams. Individuals and groups are welcome. For information, call Beth Hartung at (913) 208-3321 or send an e-mail to her at: bethhartung@sbcglobal. net. Volunteer are needed, too!

23

The Altar and Rosary Society of St. Agnes Parish, 5250 Mission Rd., Roeland Park, will host a day of recollection on Jan. 23. The day will begin with a rosary at 9 a.m., followed by Mass, a continental breakfast, a presentation in the parish center, and a

closing prayer at 12:30 p.m. Both men and women are encouraged to attend. There is no cost. Freewill donations will be accepted.

24

The Boy Scouts of St. Ann Parish, 7241 Mission Rd., Prairie Village, will host a pancake breakfast from 7:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m. on Jan. 24 in the cafeteria. Proceeds will benefit the troop’s summer camp fund.

27

Join the Singles of Nativity for happy hour, beginning at 6 p.m. on Jan. 27, at Houlihan’s, across from Oak Park Mall, Overland Park. Look for the yellow balloon and our greeters who will be at the table until 7:30 p.m. Questions? Send an e-mail to: social@son-ministry.org.

29-31

Keep your relationship a priority in the new year by attending the next Worldwide Marriage Encounter weekend will be held from Jan. 29 - 31. This powerful experience is highlighted on our YouTube video at: www.wwme.org. For information or to register, call (913) 469-8453 in the Kansas City metro area, (785) 843-9274 in Lawrence, (785) 357-5000 in Topeka, or visit the Web site at: www.neksme.org.

30

Sophia Center, 751 S. 8th St., Atchison, will host a day of reflection for RCIA candidates and catechumens from 8:15 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Jan. 30. The focus of the day will be on deepening one’s understanding of the commitment implied when praying the Lord’s Prayer. Mary Kay Whitacre will be the presenter. She has served in RCIA ministry for 25 years and is currently the RCIA coordinator at St. Thomas More Parish in Kansas City, Mo. Registration is limited. For information or to register, call (913) 360-6151 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/ sophia.html.

The Center for Spirit at Work will host “Spirituality in a World of Downsizing,” a one-day retreat for anyone interested in exploring the loss and diminishment and rebirth of a soul. The retreat will be held from 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. on Jan. 30 at the Diastole Center, located at 25th and Holmes, Kansas City, Mo. The cost of $30 includes lunch. For information or to register by Jan. 25, call Sister Donna Ryan at (816) 753-7170 or visit the Web site at: www.centerforspiritatwork.org.

Save the date for the annual support our seminarians dinner and auction will be held on Jan. 30 at the Marriott Allis Plaza Hotel, Kansas City, Mo. For information or to purchase tickets, send an e-mail to: vocation@archkck.org or visit the Web site at: www.kckvocations.com.

Misc.

The Singles of Nativity, for all singles 35 and better, welcomes newcomers to its week-

CALENDAR 13 ly Bible study on Sundays at 9 a.m. in the Nativity conference room, 119th & Mission Rd., Leawood, followed by 10:30 a.m. Mass.

For information, send an e-mail to Randall Stevenson at: gaelwynn@yahoo.com.

The Apostles of the Interior Life along with spiritual director Father Steve Sotiroff will host a spiritual pilgrimage to Italy from June 11 - 21, 2010. Cities to be visited include: Rome, Orvieto, Assisi, Siena, Florence, and Loreto. The cost of $2799 (double occupancy) includes airfare, hotels, daily breakfast and dinner, and sightseeing tours.

Optional trip insurance is available for $185.

Registration and deposit is due by March 1, 2010. For information or to book a reservation, contact Adriatic Pilgrimages at 1 (800) 262-1718 or visit the Web site at: www. adriatrictours.com.

A Holy Land pilgrimage in the footsteps of Jesus, is planned for June 1 - 14, 2010. Spiritual director Father Jorge Ramirez will lead participants on a tour through Bethlehem, Nazareth, Cana, and Mount Tabor and Cairo in celebration of the great mysteries of Jesus’ life. The cost is $3295 per person/double occupancy; $445 single supplement. The Cairo extension costs $795 per person, double occupancy. Space is limited. A reservation and $400 deposit are due by Feb. 15, 2010. For information, call Pilar at (913) 341-7779.

Mary, Health of the Sick Guild has published a new cookbook to benefit the Sisters, Servants of Mary. The cookbook contains over 350 recipes, including ones submitted by the Sisters themselves. The cost is $12 (plus $2 for postage). Make checks payable to the Sisters, Servants of Mary and send to: 800 N. 18th St., Kansas City KS 66102. Cookbooks may also be purchased at the motherhouse at the above address. For information, contact Barbara Butler at (913) 362-0723 or the convent at (913) 371-3423.

There are 14 men in the My House men’s groups that have broken free from pornography for over one year! Also, the My House women’s group is available for wives and loved ones who are healing from the effects of their loved one’s struggles. For more information, visit the Web site at: LoveIsFaithful.com.

The Serra Club invites all men of the archdiocese to pray with them to increase vocations to the priesthood and religious life.

Meetings are held at noon on every second and fourth Wednesday of the month at the Hilton Garden Inn, 520 Minnesota Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information, contact Jim Conrad at (913) 432-4162, John Muehlberger at (913) 441-5061, or Bill Peters at (913) 8946967.

Catholic Charities is sponsoring Mother to Mother, a program that provides emotional support for mothers. Meetings with speakers on various topics are held once a month in Olathe. Mothers are also paired with a support/mentor mother. For more information, contact Carla Golden at (913) 7824077, or send an e-mail to her at: cgolden@ ccsks.org.

Concrete Work

Any type of repair and new work Driveways, Walks, Patios Member of Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish

Harvey M. Kascht (913) 262-1555

M-F 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Sat. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. | Summer Months: Sat. 10 a.m to 3 p.m.

14 COMMENTARY

THE LEAVEN • january 8, 2010

Mark my words

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

Archbishop Edward O’Meara Award Winner 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2001, 2002, 2003

Quote Week

of the

“One of the things Trent first brought up to us was his concern about not continuing our legacy, since he was our only son and would not be having any children of his own as a celibate priest. I told him, ‘If you’re able to do this and end up becoming a priest, you’ll be doing bigger and better things for our faith and in our church that will reach a lot further than our legacy.’”

I

Don’t be ‘hoard’-headed this year

f you’re ever in the mood to have your stomach lurch, tune into A&E and watch about five minutes or so of the show, “Hoarders.”

The gist of the series is this: A TV crew heads out with a professional organizer to visit the homes of tortured souls who are literally buried under “stuff.” Now, I’m not talking about just a little run-of-the-mill stuff. The people featured here have a real sickness.

Their homes, and I use the word loosely, are literally stuffed; so much so, that in many cases, they are uninhabitable.

In fact, one place was so bad that the family moved outside and was living in a tent in the backyard. Incredible.

The featured homes are strewn with garbage (fast-food containers, pizza boxes, outdated yogurt!), pets are not properly cared for, areas are filthy, and rooms are piled with box upon box.

It’s so painful to see that just a few minutes of the program is all I can stand. “Hoarders” is probably one of my major motivators to change my ways before I sink to the lows that these folks find themselves trapped in.

I’m sure that their “collections” started little by little. Sadly, over time — unchecked — things spiraled totally out of control.

Thank goodness, this coming Monday, Jan. 11, is National Clean Off Your Desk Day. That’s where I’m going to start. I think it’s a great idea.

My only dilemma now is: Which desk will I choose to clean off? Will it be the one(s) at The Leaven, at the parish, or in my bedroom? Or maybe I should concentrate on my computer desk or the table functioning as a desk in my home office or maybe the kitchen table, which is actually the place where I end up doing the most work.

And therein lies the problem: Too many desks=lack of focus, lack of efficiency, lack of patience . . . and potentially the beginning of a slow slide into total chaos.

Let me give you an example: The other day I was at the kitchen table (naturally) writing some thank you notes. I’d been up and down several times already, to retrieve things like note cards, address labels, stamps, stickers, return address labels, etc., from various scattered points in the house. At one point, however, I’d actually written one whole note, sealed the envelope, and affixed a 39-cent stamp on it (as I’d unearthed a whole sheet of these old stamps). I reached for a fivecent stamp to add to the 39-cent one . . . and could not for the life of me find it. I’d just had it in my hand, mind you, but suddenly it was gone.

Being stubborn, I upended every

pile that surrounded me on the kitchen table, all to no avail. I even looked under the table. Ultimately, I did what any mature person would do: I blamed the cats for eating it, stalked off in a huff, and left the thank you note only partially completed. What should have taken only a short amount of time, if I’d been organized, now became an “issue.” The note took its place as part of yet another pile.

Those little things so often derail even the best of intentions, causing us to do so much less than we are capable of. A misplaced stamp or car keys or an important document — all the minutes “lost” in looking for these items not only add up over the years, but also produce huge amounts of unnecessary stress, which always seems to spread to those around us.

And time wasted on these items robs you of devoting your life to the things that truly are important: prayer, family and friends, reflection and planning, hobbies and relaxation, volunteering.

One of my resolutions for the new year is to pursue simplicity of life: doing little things consistently to not let things pile up, to bring order out of chaos. Much as I hate to admit it, I do believe that a cluttered desk is the sign of a cluttered mind and heart.

Join me in making this Monday the start of something new. I don’t know about you, but I’d much rather see the surface of my desk again, than have an A&E TV crew pulling up outside my door.

Don Schmidt, father of archdiocesan seminarian Trent Schmidt See story on page 4

the gospel truth

Scripture Readings

Prayer proves pivotal in Luke’s Gospel

ordinary time Jan. 10 the baptism of the lord Is 40: 1-5, 9-11; Ps 104: 1b-4, 24-25, 27-30; Ti 2: 11-14; 3: 4-7 Lk 3: 15-16, 21-22 Jan. 11 Monday 1 Sm 1: 1-8; Ps 116: 12-19; Mk 1: 14-20 Jan. 12 Tuesday 1 Sm 1: 9-20; (Ps) 1 Sm 2: 1, 4-8; Mk 1: 21-28 Jan. 13 Hilary, bishop, doctor of the church 1 Sm 3: 1-10, 19-20; Ps 40: 2, 5, 7-10; Mk 1: 29-39 Jan. 14 Thursday 1 Sm 4: 1-11; Ps 44: 10-11, 14-15, 24-25; Mk 1: 40-45 Jan. 15 Friday 1 Sm 8: 4-7, 10-22a; Ps 89: 16-19; Mk 2: 1-12 Jan. 16 Saturday 1 Sm 9: 1-4, 17-19; 10: 1; Ps 21: 2-7; Mk 2: 13-17

B

ll birds look about the same to me. It’s hard for me to tell the difference between a robin and a sparrow. I have never paid that much attention to them.

appears 19 times in Luke’s Gospel.

Matthew’s Gospel follows as a close On the other hand, a bird watcher second, with 14 times. Mark trails will be able to differentiate between behind with only 7 times. John the countless species of birds that makes an embarrassing showing of grace our world, will notice their speonly 4 times. cific features. We pay attention to that A good example of Luke’s emphawhich matters to us. sis occurs in this Sunday’s For several weeks now, Gospel reading for the feast since the beginning of Adthe baptism of the of the Baptism of the Lord vent, we have been listenlord — Lk 3:15-16, 21-22. Mating to the Gospel of Luke at Lk 3: 15-16, 21-22 thew’s and Mark’s Gospels Mass. Throughout this next also describe the baptism of year, the Gospel readings Jesus, and John’s Gospel refers to it. will ordinarily come from Luke, since But only Luke’s Gospel inserts the dewe are in Cycle C of the Lectionary. tail about Jesus praying: “After all the We pay attention to that which matpeople had been baptized and Jesus ters to us. Evidently, prayer must have also had been baptized and was praymattered a great deal to Luke. Now, I ing, heaven was opened and the Holy do not mean to imply that prayer did Spirit descended upon him in bodily not matter to the other Gospel writers form like a dove.”

— Matthew, Mark and John. But it is a Why does Luke single out prayer in fact that Luke’s Gospel mentions that the life of Jesus? Possibly, the Christian activity more often. community to which Luke belonged esSome form of the verb “to pray”

pecially placed a stress upon prayer in their life, and Luke reflected that emphasis in his Gospel. Or perhaps, Luke noticed a deficiency in that regard and sought to correct it. Or maybe the two motives are working together.

We might note that only the Gospels of Luke and Matthew include a version of the Lord’s prayer, the Our Father, in their texts. Did Matthew’s community share a similar concern with Luke’s? It appears that the focus upon prayer in the life of Jesus appears at least in part as an example to encourage his followers to also pray themselves.

It only makes sense, then, that at Jesus’ first public appearance — namely, his baptism — Luke should also have Jesus pray. We ordinarily think of baptism as a way to make a new beginning.

That is also true for Jesus.

Throughout his life, Jesus will periodically devote time to prayer. Luke wishes to draw our attention to that pattern, so that we might follow suit.

Luke wants prayer to also matter a lot to us.

Father Mike Stubbs is pastor of St. Francis de Sales Parish in Lansing and has a degree in Scripture from Harvard University.

16 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • January 8, 2010