01-15-10 Vol. 31 No. 22

www.theleaven.com | Newspaper of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas | Vol. 31, No. 22 january 15, 2010

A little home for the Little Sisters Story and photos by Jill Ragar Esfeld

Little Brother Christophe explains the drawings and small-scale model he made of the Little Sisters’ future monastery. Looking on are, from left, Little Sisters Dorota, Stephanie, Alma, Judith, Hallel and Marie.

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — After more than a year in the archdiocese, the home of the Little Sisters of the Community of the Lamb here has received its name — “Lumen Christi,” which means “the light of Christ.”

“That light we wish to offer by being with the people of this neighborhood,” said Little Sister Lucie, one of the first of seven Little Sisters to arrive in Kansas City, Kan. The community hopes now to raise enough funds to build a modest monas-

tery on the land donated by the archdiocese, adjacent to the old St. Benedict rectory in All Saints Parish, where the Little Sisters currently reside.

The Community of the Lamb has its motherhouse in France. It is a little monastery and, like most of the community’s houses established throughout the world, it is a simple structure with a low profile.

“The little monastery in its style and architecture reflects the simplicity of the Gospel,” explained Little Sister Lucie.

The community’s foundress, Little Sister Marie, recently visited the Kansas community to share in the joy of the Lit-

tle Sisters’ first steps here.

Together with Little Sister Marie, the Little Sisters have established the plans for their future monastery. A small-scale model was designed by Little Brother Christophe.

Little Sister Marie referred to the future monastery as a place of light.

“When someone comes, the Gospel has to shine through the Little Sisters, but also through the architecture,” she said. “It must be very simple, but beautiful.”

Turn to “sisters” on page 4

How to help the Little Sisters build their monastery The little monastery in its design is inspired by ancient monastic tradition. It will accommodate all the needs of daily life and will include a kitchen, a refectory, and a parlor. There will be small hermitages, with places of silence reserved for prayer and study.

There will be a chapel, open to the public, where the Little Sisters will pray. The Little

Sisters also hope to build three small hermitages in which priests can spend a few days of retreat.

The Little Sisters ask first that potential donors pray, and then offer whatever help they wish. Those desiring to help can contact them directly at the following address and phone number:

The Little Sisters of the Community of the Lamb 36 S. Boeke St. Kansas City, KS 66101-3610 Phone (913) 621-1727

2 ARCHBISHOP

THE LEAVEN • january 15, 2010

THE LEAVEN • january 15, 2010

Father Norbert Lickteig | 1934 - 2010

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS

B

Gratitude is the foundation of a spirituality of stewardship

arry Clayton, one of our seminarians, studying at KenrickGlennon Seminary in St. Louis, is doing a pastoral year serving in St. Joseph Parish in Josephville, Mo. The Archdiocese of St. Louis is completing a $50 million campaign for capital improvements for the seminary, as well as building an endowment to help fund its operational expenses.

At a gathering of our Kansas City, Kan., seminarians over the Christmas holidays, Barry related a story about a third-grade boy who is a member of St. Joseph Parish. Last year, the boy received his first holy Communion.

He received $150 in gifts from family and friends. The boy wanted to give all that he had received away. He gave $75 to the Missionaries of Charity who serve the poorest of the poor in North St. Louis. Hearing about the seminary campaign at Sunday Mass, he decided to give the other $75 to the seminary.

Barry brought the boy to the seminary so that he could personally present his gift to the seminary rector, Msgr. Ted Wojcicki. The rector and the entire seminary community were very touched by the boy’s generosity. With his obvious interest in the seminary

and love for priests, Msgr. Wojcicki asked the boy if he was considering a priestly vocation. The boy said that actually he wanted to be pope, but he seemed to understand that it would be best for him first to be ordained a priest.

While it seems unlikely that this young man will be the first American pope and slightly more probable that some day he will actually become a priest, he certainly has a well-developed understanding of stewardship. Obviously, he could have chosen to spend his first Communion money on games or toys that he would enjoy. With wisdom beyond his years, he chose to give the gifts that he had first received to help the poor and to assist with the formation of future priests.

During these weeks of January, you are being asked in your parishes to make a donation to our annual Archbishop’s Call to Share campaign (ACTS). Call to Share is the financial life stream for many of our archdiocesan pastoral and charitable ministries.

ACTS helps Catholic Charities provide emergency assistance to those suffering during these difficult economic times. Call to Share provides scholarships for students attending our Catholic elementary schools, as well as helps to fund formation opportunities for Catholic school teachers and cat-

echists teaching in Schools of Religion.

ACTS provides financial support to our campus ministry programs at the University of Kansas, Emporia State College and Washburn University. Call to Share provides funding for Prairie Star Ranch (our archdiocesan youth camp) as well as funds our youth ministry office, which brought to Kansas City this past November the National Catholic Youth Conference. ACTS funds our prolife ministries, helping to provide abortion alternatives to those facing a crisis pregnancy. Call to Share supports our Hispanic ministry efforts, making it possible for the church to reach out to our brothers and sisters in Christ who are recent immigrants.

This list could go on and on. Suffice it to say that much of the pastoral work of the church of northeast Kansas depends on the success of our annual Call to Share campaign.

I have been gratified by the generous support the Catholic community of northeast Kansas provides to the church. However, last year during these difficult economic times, I was particularly heartened by the generosity of so many throughout the Archdiocese. Realizing with higher than normal unemployment rates more people would be unable to give and more families would be requesting assistance from the church, many individuals increased their donation to ACTS. The foundation for the spirituality of stewardship is gratitude. It is the realization that everything we possess is ultimately God’s gift to us. Our life, our health, our talents and abilities, our families and friendships, our educational and employment opportunities find their ultimate source in God.

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)

Editor Reverend Mark Goldasich, stl frmark@theleaven.com

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe@theleaven.com

Advertising Representative Jennifer Siebes jennifer@theleaven.com

President Most Reverend Joseph F. Naumann

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita@theleaven.com

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd@theleaven.com

Reporter KARA HANSEN kara@theleaven.com

SECOND FRONT PAGE 3

We honor God by using his gifts to provide properly for ourselves and our families. At the same time, the Lord is asking each of us to give a portion of what he has entrusted to us to support the mission of his Church and to help others. Many people wonder: With the responsibilities to support and care for their own family, what is the Lord asking me to give to his church and to charity?

The answer to that question is a personal one for each of us. In this area, as with every dimension of our life, we need to pray, asking God to enlighten our decisions.

A guideline that many Catholics find helpful is to give 10 percent of what God has provided to them to the church and charity. Many choose to give five percent to their parish, one percent to ACTS, and the remaining four percent to other charities of their choosing.

Please pray over what the Lord is asking you to give Call to Share this year. The more he has blessed us, the more generous we are called to be. For those unemployed at this time, your very valuable gift will be to pray for the success of ACTS and the fruitfulness of all the ministries it funds.

Unlike the third-grader in Josephville, God is probably not asking any of us to give 100 percent of his gifts to Call to Share. However, the Lord is asking each of us to make some sacrificial gift.

Think about it. Even more, pray about it. If we each do that and follow what God reveals to us in our prayer, I am confident that Call to Share will succeed again this year — but more importantly, the church in northeast Kansas will continue to thrive.

Published weekly September through May, excepting the Friday the week after Thanksgiving, and the Friday after Christmas; biweekly June through August. Address communications to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Phone: (913) 7211570; fax: (913) 721-5276; or e-mail at: sub@theleaven.com.

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On a mission from God

By Joe Bollig

Father Norbert Lickteig served archdiocese for 48 years

Leaven staff

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — For all his years serving here in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Father Norbert Lickteig just might have been one of the best missionaries around.

Father Lickteig, 75, who died on Jan. 7, loved the missionary church and worked tirelessly to promote its welfare.

For 38 years, he served the archdiocese with élan and zeal as the director of the archdiocesan office of the Society for the Propagation of the Faith.

“He was very good with the visiting missionary bishops, pastors and Sisters, and was really good with names,” said Father Al Rockers, pastor of Holy Angels Parish in Basehor. “He was very interested in the international flavor and dynamic of the church, and he had contact with missionaries around the world.”

To several missionary bishops, Father Lickteig was the face of the Catholic Church of northeast Kansas.

Father Lickteig was on the national board and council of the Society for the Propagation of the Faith and would frequently travel to New York to meet with officials and staff. Occasionally, he would even go overseas.

“I would say that [the missions] were at the depth of his spirituality, and he saw himself as a missionary,” said Msgr.

John Kozar, national director of the Society for the Propagation of the Faith.

“In every aspect of his priesthood there was a missionary dimension,” he continued. “He had a marvelous capability to relate to people of every age. He had a gentleness about him, so he could communicate with anyone.”

Father Lickteig didn’t speak Spanish or Italian, but that didn’t stop him from relating to others. While attending meetings overseas, he would go out to lunch with people who didn’t speak a word of English.

Despite the language barrier, they’d all have a wonderful time.

“That was a testimonial of his personality,” said Msgr. Kozar. “He didn’t even need to know another language. He had this ease of communication and gentility.”

Father Lickteig loved helping out his brother priests closer to home as well. It was no burden for him to travel all over the archdioceses to help his fellow pastors.

“He just loved going out to all the parishes and helping other priests on weekends,” said Father Rockers, who is also a cousin. “In a 2008 Christmas card, he mentioned that he visited 26 parishes that year.”

Father Norbert had a reputation for being precise, neat, organized, and businesslike. He took every task and responsibility very seriously. Even while serving as infirmarian at St. Thomas Seminary in Denver, he was known as “Little Doc.” He carried this attention to detail throughout his priesthood.

“He was just so precise and neat,” said Father Rockers. “Just everything he did was perfectly in order — the marriage papers, the teachers and personnel he’d hire — just perfect in detail. I’d almost say he reveled in detail. His parishes were well administered.”

He had, one priest related, “a memory like an elephant” and knew the name

and personal details of every single parishioner. Nothing happened in his parish without his knowing or say-so, said another. No one got away with trying to pull a fast one on him, or feeding him a lot of baloney. Father Lickteig never let you forget that he was in charge of the parish, but he tempered that with compassion.

“No other priest was more organized than Father Norbert Lickteig,” said Father Rick Storey, pastor of Holy Spirit Parish in Overland Park. “He was strict, and he ran things with an iron fist, but that iron fist was very gentle if you got to know him.”

If Father Lickteig seemed a bit formal, he could also be warm and had a great sense of humor. He wasn’t afraid to call ’em as he saw ’em.

“You either liked him or you didn’t,” said Father Storey. “He was straightforward and said it like it was. And [he demanded] if you were going to do it, you were going to do it right. Not everyone can handle that.”

Priests who knew him relate all kinds of stories about his neatness, organization, and talent for administration.

He could substitute for a Mass and have a sermon ready at a moment’s notice, because he filed handwritten homilies for every single day in the liturgical year.

He kept a list of his old classmates from the seminary and every year he’d call every single one, checking them off as he went, with notes like, “Left message” and “Call back later.”

His desk was always organized “just

so,” and rectories were organized that way, too — even to the canned goods in the kitchen pantries.

“For my mother’s funeral, he was very particular about how the flowers were arranged in the sacristy,” said Father Jerry Volz, pastor of St. Matthew Parish in Topeka. “He directed the funeral home to have all the cards pulled off, because the arrangements looked better without the cards.”

And it might just be possible that Father Lickteig was the guy who woke the early bird. “[In the 1970s] he would get up at 4 a.m., while at St. Patrick Parish [in Kansas City, Kan.] and go speed walking,” said Father Pat Riley, pastor of Holy Family Church in Eudora. “He’d have half a day’s work done by 6:30 a.m. He’d give me a call at 6:30 a.m. if he needed something. He’d been up working for hours.”

And he had a big, big voice with a lot of e-nun-ci-a-tion.

“He told me that he originally wanted to write plays,” said Father Storey.

“He could be very theatrical, and his voice carried without needing a microphone, no matter how large the church.

He said, ‘God gave you a voice — use it.’

He had a way of enunciating.”

That combination of discipline, attention to detail and compassion for others made Father Lickteig a good pastor.

“He was just a good, good man,” said Father Storey. “He had a genuine love of people.”

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Father Norbert Lickteig, 75, who served as a pastor and administrator in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas for 48 years, died on Jan. 7 at his home in Shawnee.

Father Lickteig was born on Feb. 27, 1934, in Welda. He was the eldest son of Greg and Veronica Lickteig. The family attended Holy Angels Parish in Garnett.

He and his two sisters attended Garnett Elementary and Holy Angels School. When he was eight years old, the future priest volunteered to serve Mass for Father John Trompeter. Father Lickteig later said Father Trompeter inspired him to pursue a vocation to the priesthood.

Father Lickteig graduated from Garnett High School in 1952. He spent a year in the novitiate with the Carmelites at Niagara Falls, N.Y., but opted for the diocesan priesthood and went to St. Thomas Seminary in Denver. There, he earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in 1957, and a master’s in sacred theology in 1961.

Following his studies, he was ordained to the priesthood on June 3, 1961, by Archbishop Edward J. Hunkeler at St. Peter’s Cathedral in Kansas City, Kan. His first assignment was as associate pastor at Blessed Sacrament Parish in Kansas City, Kan. In August 1961, he became associate pastor at Holy Name Parish in Kansas City, Kan., and served as chaplain at the University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City, Kan. In subsequent years, Father Lickteig served as a pastor and administrator at a number of parishes and ministered in a variety of archdiocesan offices.

He served as vice chancellor of the archdiocese from 1971 to 1978, and as archdiocesan director of the Society for the Propagation of the Faith — more commonly known as the missions office — for 38 years. He also served as a judge working with matrimonial cases in the archdiocesan tribunal office, and in 1971 was director of the archdiocesan Pastoral Formation Program.

He served as chairman of the presbyteral council for 10 years, and for 10 years was the provincial representative to the National Federation of Priests’ Councils. He also served on the national board of the Society for the Propagation of the Faith, was a member of the archdiocesan priests retirement board, and was an archdiocesan consultor.

His civic involvements included serving as chaplain of the Downtown Optimists of Topeka and of the Topeka Serra Club, which he founded in 1991.

He was also active in local ministerial councils wherever he was assigned.

Father Lickteig served as a pastor until June 2002 and took a sabbatical in 2003. Although he retired in July 2004, he had a busy retirement. He continued to work in the archdiocesan missions office and drove throughout the archdiocese to help other pastors with hearing confessions, conducting funerals, and celebrating Masses.

Father Lickteig was preceded in death by his mother and father. Survivors include: his sisters, Loeda Lickteig of Garnett and Linda Teichgraeber of Lisle, Ill.; and nephews and nieces.

A visitation was held on Jan. 11 at Holy Angels Parish, followed by a Mass of Christian burial on Jan. 12 at Holy Angels. He was buried in the family plot.

4 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • January 15, 2010

THE LEAVEN • january 15, 2010

Sisters beg in order to bring Gospel to the lives of others Continued from page 1

The charism of the Community of the Lamb

At home in Kansas The Community of the Lamb came to this archdiocese at the invitation of Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann. They chose to establish their community, the first in the United States, in one of the poorest areas of Kansas City, Kan. With the help of their new neighbors, the Little Sisters refurbished the old rectory enough so that it could function as a temporary living space. They made their own simple furniture in keeping with the style of the community.

The Little Sisters rely solely on Providence and charity for their living. Being a new branch of the Dominican order, a begging order, they keep within their charism (see sidebar) by going out into the neighborhood to beg for daily bread.

“How often do we experience that people give to us with all their hearts, and we are always amazed at the goodness of the human heart!” said Little Sister Dorota.

The seven Little Sisters in residence come from five different countries.

Their differences are as great as their love for one another, and so they learn firsthand, each day, how to live the motto of their order, “Wounded, I will never cease to love.”

“We have a very tight fraternal life,” explained Little Sister Aude. “Consequently, it is the first place where we can experience “Wounded, I will never cease to love.

“We learn to welcome one another in our differences,” she added. “Forgiveness being essential, we have the opportunity to beg pardon for our lack of love and care for our Sisters every night during the community chapter of forgiveness.”

The core of their community life is the Eucharist announced and prolonged in liturgical prayer, and silent adoration.

This is how they begin and end each day.

Singing is an important part of their worship. The songs they sing in harmony are truly prayers.

“Some children in our neighborhood come to listen to our singing . . . but they also enjoy staying during silent adoration,” said Little Sister Alma. “One of these children told his principal, ‘They are nuns; they sing for God!’”

Neighbors The Little Sisters have grown very attached to their neighborhood and, likewise, the parishioners of All Saints are

When the Community of the Lamb first moved to Kansas, Little Sister Lucie and Little Sister Judith worked together to make its simple furniture. delighted to have them here.

Little Sister Marie commented during her visit that she has been pleased to see the community so filled with joy.

“A lot of those we’ve met have become friends,” she said. “And if this house looks nice now, it really is because of the help of the neighborhood who came to paint and to make the furniture with us. It was their joy.

“This help we have received really says a lot about all those who welcomed the Sisters.”

Community of the Lamb members traditionally keep a daily journal of the encounters they have and all the graces God works in their lives.

Little Sister Bénédicte shared one of the stories to illustrate the way the neighborhood has responded to their presence.

“I remember this little boy to whom we asked ‘Is your mother there?’ He responded that she was not at home.

But as we were a few houses further, he called after us, ‘Sisters, Sisters, my mom has come back home!’ And we turned around to meet the little boy handing us two grocery bags that his mom had filled for us with tremendous generosity. And he said, ‘I give this to you with all my heart.’

“His mother then, as she was concerned for us, asked, ‘Have you had anything to eat?’ She invited us in to have lunch with them.

“After the meal, we prayed with this courageous mother going through a family trial. We still ponder in our heart the prayer that the young boy said out loud, ‘I thank you, God, for having given me life, for my mom who is so good to me, for my family. . . . And I pray that my mom may find friends that she can rely on.’”

The Little Sisters of the Community of the Lamb beg in their own neighborhood, but also go on mission throughout the Kansas City area and in other cities in the archdiocese.

A monastery of their own As the people of the archdiocese have come to know the Little Sisters, they’ve learned that the Sisters’ mission is not just about being poor and begging — it is a movement toward communion.

The Little Sisters embody Christ going out and saying, “I thirst,” and offer people the chance to receive the Gospel in their homes.

The monastery is the place from which prayer is drawn, the dwelling of intercession and welcoming.

Indeed, the Little Sisters are grateful for the old rectory and the efforts of the Catholic community to make their current home livable.

But the rectory is old, structurally

Foundress Little Sister Marie said she had no idea she was starting a community 35 years ago in France. As a young Dominican Sister, she only knew that she had a big question in her heart.

“In our world, evil seems so many times so triumphant,” she explained.

“And this question was in my heart. I believe it is in all human beings’ hearts: Tell us, Lord, how are you victorious over all evil?”

The answer came to her during a night in silent adoration.

“In the middle of the night,” she said. “this sentence of St. Paul’s arose in my heart: In his own flesh, Christ destroyed the enmity; in his own person, he killed hatred! (Eph: 2:13-19) “I understand now, the Community of the Lamb was born in that moment.”

The motto of the community is: “Wounded, I will never cease to love.” Its charism is to live the Gospel and Jesus’ life in community.

“United to Jesus and filled with the love of God, we become the sent ones,” Little Sister Marie explained.

“Through the mercy of God we go, ‘without gold or silver,’ in order to give out the name of Jesus,” she explained. “We go like Jesus went — poor and begging the love of mankind; we beg for our daily bread, announcing the Gospel to all.”

“This is the living water of the charism,” she added. “The living water, because it is always renewed in adoration and in prayer and in our union to Christ.”

Today, the Community of the Lamb includes 130 Little Sisters and about 30 Little Brothers from many countries serving in communities around the world.

To learn more about the order, visit the Web site at: www.communautedelagneau.org /communaute-de-lagneau- anglais.php.

unsound and in disrepair. They pray members of the archdiocese will donate to their cause to help them build a little monastery and chapel where they can worship with their new friends in a place of silence, beauty and peace.

“We are always ready to do what we can,” said Little Sister Stephanie, “but we also know that we will need a lot of help.”

“The people are very welcoming and openhearted here,” added Little Sister Hallel. “One of our friends once said to us, ‘We want you to feel at home here!

It’s a blessing for us to have you.’”

LOCAL NEWS 5

Men’s conference offers great Lenten beginning

By Joe Bollig Leaven staff

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — You may have only recently taken down the Christmas tree, but it’s still not too early to think about Lent — and to register for Men Under Construction 14.

Men Under Construction, the annual Catholic men’s conference held in the archdiocese, is slated for Feb. 27 at St. James Academy in Lenexa.

For many, this will be their first MUC, but several of the men who will attend have made this their annual “Lent out with the boys.” Often fathers will bring their sons — or grandsons. Sometimes, three generations of men attend MUC together. Past conferences have drawn between 500 to 800 men.

“There’s nothing like it in our archdiocese,” said Dan Spencer, chairman of MUC. “It’s a unique event that men enjoy each year. There are always different speakers to address different aspects of male spirituality.”

Although there are many different retreat opportunities held during many times of the year in the archdiocese, MUC is unique because it focuses on the special needs of men and the challenges they face.

“In reality, men walk and live out their faith in very different ways than women,” said Spencer.

Men face their own challenges in

“In reality, men walk and live out their faith in very different ways than women. Most men don’t have a lot of good friends.

They have a limited sphere where they can share openly with other men the challenges they face.”

Dan Spencer, chairman of MUC marriage, in balancing work and family, and in living lives of sexual integrity.

“Most men don’t have a lot of good friends,” said Spencer. “Most don’t have more than one or two good friends.

They have a limited sphere where they can share openly with other men the challenges they face.”

This year the format of MUC has been changed to allow more extensive interaction among attendees. Men will be able to choose from among eight subjects in two discussion sessions. Among the topics are: “How to live a pure life,” “How to be a leader in your family,” and “How to evangelize your family.”

Like in previous years, MUC offers dynamic speakers.

This year’s keynote speaker is Richard L. Lane, a self-made evangelist from St. Alphonsus Liguori Parish in St. Louis. Lane, the son of NFL Hall of Famer Dick “Night Train” Lane, is a convert to the Catholic faith. He has gone from evangelizing on the street corner of his neighborhood to the airwaves of the most popular programs in Catholic media.

The witness talk will be given by Michael Franzese, the son of an underboss in New York’s violent Colombo crime family. He became a mobster himself and, at one time, Fortune magazine listed him eighteenth on its list of the “Fifty Most Wealthy and Powerful Mafia Bosses.” After his conversion to Christianity, Franzese served time in prison and became one of those rare individuals who walk away from the Mob and live to tell about it.

Finally, the day of reflection will provide participants with the opportunity to receive the sacrament of reconciliation and for participation in a eucharistic procession and adoration.

With early registration before Feb. 1, the cost to attend is: $25 for adults; $10 for students; and $10 for teenage sons or grandsons. A limited number of tickets are available at the door.

For information or tickets go to the Web site at: www.ksmuc.org.

Converted from the Mob

By Joe Bollig Leaven staff

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Back in the 1980s, Michael Franzese was rich, powerful, respected, feared — and damned.

Franzese, a former member of the Mafia, will give a witness talk at Men Under Construction 14, the annual Catholic men’s conference, on Feb. 27 at St. James Academy in Lenexa.

Franzese grew up in the crime syndicate. His faMichael Franzese ther was a reputed underboss in the notorious and violent Colombo crime family of New York. Eventually, Franzese himself became a “capo,” or leader of his own small group of Mob members.

And he was very, very good at his work.

He became one of the biggest money earners for the Mob since Al Capone, bringing in an estimated $5 - 8 million dollars a week from both legal and illegal activities.

The media dubbed him “the yuppie don.”

When he was 35, Fortune magazine ranked him eighteenth on its list of the “Fifty Most Wealthy and Powerful Mafia Bosses.”

“I grew up Catholic,” he said. “I went to Catholiac school from kindergarten to high school. I was an altar boy and never missed Mass. We went [to Mass] Christmas and Easter, but we weren’t overly religious.”

“We were Catholic and believed in God,” he continued. “However, in the Machiavellian philosophy of the Mob, we believed we were the good guys fighting against the government, which were the bad guys.”

And other Mobsters didn’t believe or thought they were going to hell anyway, so it didn’t matter what they did.

Things changed in 1986, when he met Camille, his future wife, while he was producing a

film in Florida. Camille, a beautiful dancer, was also a committed Christian. They fell in love and married. Franzese began to want what Camille had in her life — Jesus Christ.

“I wasn’t fortunate enough to have [St. Paul’s] ‘road to Damascus’ experience and the next day do the Lord’s work. It was a process of several years,” said Franzese.

There were two parts to Franzese’s conversion, in fact. One was the act of asking forgiveness for his sins. But the second was surrendering himself totally to God — and was the much harder part, because it was contrary to everything that had shaped his worldview since he was a child.

Prison played a role in bringing about the second part, he said. He served time for his role in the gasoline rackets and for a parole violation.

“One night, God brought me to my knees,” said Franzese. “I had no other choice or options. I had no more control. I said, ‘God, I need you to help me.’”

Turn to “FORMER” on page 7

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‘Pretend Catholic’ falls for the faith

By Joe Bollig Leaven staff

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — He didn’t plan it that way, but for 19 years Richard Lane was a “pretend Catholic.”

Lane is the keynote speaker at Men Under Construction 14, the annual Catholic men’s conference, to be held on Feb. 27 at St. James Academy in Lenexa.

Lane was raised in the Lutheran Church — Missouri Synod.

Richard Lane While he was in the Army during the mid-1980s, the only worship options available were a generic, low-church Protestant service and a Mass for Catholics.

He chose the Mass and he liked it, and he kept returning. And everyone just assumed that he was Catholic.

“No one ever asked me,” he said.

Then, while living in Oakland, Calif., Lane began attending Masses at a Catholic church.

“They welcomed me with open arms,” he said. “They asked me if I would lector and sing in the choir, so I said sure,” he added.

He moved to St. Louis and fell in love with St. Alphonsus Liguori Parish. When he asked to become more involved with the parish, he was asked for his sacramental records.

“And they caught me,” said Lane.

“They said I had to go through the RCIA, and I did.”

He formally entered the church in April 2003. Not only did he fall deeper in love with the Catholic faith, but much later he fell in love with the director of religious education . . . and married her.

Lane’s career as an evangelist began five years ago when he was asked to go out on the street to pass out Bibles as part of an evangelization effort. Before long, he began to engage all kinds of people.

Turn to “evangelist” on page 7

6 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • January 15, 2010

Pro-life event round-up The 37th anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court’s Roe v. Wade decision will be marked this year by a March for Life in Washington, D.C., Jan. 2122. Though a variety of groups from the archdiocese will be attending the national event, as will Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, there are several pro-life events open to the public here in the archdiocese as well.

• Archbishop Naumann will speak at a pro-life forum on Jan. 17 from 3-4:30 p.m. at St. Joseph Church, 11311 Johnson Drive, Shawnee. Eucharistic adoration and a Divine Mercy chaplet will also be included in the day’s events. For more information, contact Ron Kelsey, consultant for the archdiocesan pro-life office, at (913) 647-0350, or send him an e-mail at: pro-life@archkck.org.

• A march and Rally for Life will be held in Topeka on Jan. 22, marking the 37th anniversary of Roe v. Wade. The day begins with registration, coffee and doughnuts in the lower level of Mater Dei Parish, the downtown campus (Assumption Church), 204 S.W. 8th Ave., Topeka. Lobbying at the Capitol will follow from 9:15-11:30 a.m., while Mass is celebrated at the Topeka Performing Arts Center (214 S.E. 8th Ave) at 10 a.m.

The march itself will run from 11 – 11:30 a.m., and will take protesters by the Capitol and to the Kansas Supreme Court steps. The rally follows on the Supreme Court steps at 11:30 a.m. It features women hurt by abortion, Kansans for Life leaders and pastors, and Kansas Rep. Lance Kinzer.

Lunch and workshops follow the rally at Mater Dei Church. The day ends with prayer at the Topeka Heart of America Wall for the Unborn (1216 Republican) from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.

Kansans for Life requests new baby items be brought to the rally, where representatives of Kansas crisis pregnancy centers will collect them. Suggested items included diapers and wipes, socks, pajamas, blankets, cups, formula, outfits, pacifiers, strollers, gift cards, and diaper cream. For more information about the event, contact Kansans for Life at (785) 234-2998 or visit the Web site at: Topeka@kfl.org.

• A Valentine’s Day banquet will be hosted by Kansans for Life at 6:30 p.m. on Feb. 11 at the Ritz-Charles, 9000 W. 137th Terr., Overland Park.

The banquet will feature speaker Lila Rose, a college student who has done undercover exposes of abortion clinic activities.

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THE LEAVEN • january 15, 2010 Barbara and Bob Katcha, members of Holy Spirit Parish in Overland Park, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Jan. 23 with a Mass and renewal of vows.

The couple was married on Jan. 23, 1960, at St. Gregory the Great in Milwaukee, Wis. Their three children and their spouses are: Joe and Pam Anniversary Katcha, Kenilworth, Ill.; Lois and Peter Ho, Fairway; and Peter and Marti Katcha, St. Petersburg, Fla. The couple’s six grandchildren will join them for the Mass and a dinner following.

Monks open art exhibit ATCHISON — “Thirty-Three Original Works,” an exhibit featuring works in various media by monks and friends of St. Benedict’s Abbey here, will debut on Jan. 17 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Abbey Art Gallery.

The exhibit will remain open for approximately two months. During that time, the public will be welcome to visit the gallery following Sunday Masses and by appointment.

The exhibit will feature woodcarvings, stone sculpture, watercolors, charcoal, icons, photography and other works by well-known monks, including Father Victor Gellhaus, Father Peter Beckman, Father Angelus Lingenfelser, Brother Emmanuel Perez, Brother Bernard Wagner, and Brother Vincent Fitzgerald.

Also featured are works by current monks and

by Jean Charlot, who painted the three frescoes in the abbey church.

For more information about the exhibit, call (913) 360-7906, or send an e-mail to: development@kansasmonks.org.

Former mobster brings message of conversion and hope to MUC Continued from page 5 After he got out of prison, it became public knowledge that he was walking away from the Mob. This was a very dangerous time. No one just “walked away” from the Mob. His father and family disowned him; his former Mob boss put a contract out on him.

“I can’t go back to Brooklyn,” he said. “If I did, I wouldn’t last three or four hours. God doesn’t tell you to be stupid.”

The Mob hasn’t exactly let him alone, but God’s providence and a few other things have worked in his favor. He didn’t become a government informant, and most of his Mob contemporaries are either in prison, dead, or otherwise occupied with more pressing problems.

“There were a couple of things that God engineered,” said Franzese. “I spent 17 years in the life. I knew the life as well as anyone. I sat in high places. I knew their modus operandi. I knew what they would and wouldn’t do. Having that knowledge, I said, ‘If I do make the break, no one is going to call me unknowing into a room where I don’t know what’s going on.’”

The message Franzese will bring to men at MUC is one of conversion and hope — and realism.

“I’ve been extremely blessed,” he said “but it doesn’t mean that it doesn’t come without a price. I’m careful to tell men that. God doesn’t promise us heaven on earth, but the job is so much easier when God has your back. Through all this, God has a plan and purpose. It’s a wonderful way to go through life.”

For information about Franzese’s books and ministries, go to the Web site at: www.michael franzese.com.

Sexual purity conference offers hope, healing OLATHE — Healing and personal integrity are on the agenda for the annual Men of Valor/Women of Virtue conferences on Jan. 29 and 30 in Olathe.

This, the largest Christian purity conference in the nation, drew approximately 1,400 participants last year. It is sponsored by the National Coalition for the Protection of Children and Families and the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.

Speakers at the conference will be Scott Hahn, Mark Laaser, and Danna Gresh. Hahn is a professor of theology and Scripture at the Franciscan University of Steubenville; Laaser is executive director of Faithful and True Ministries;

and Gresh is founder of Pure Freedom.

The Men of Valor conference will be held Jan. 30 at the College Church of the Nazarene in Olathe.

The Women of Virtue Conference will be held on Jan. 30 at Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe.

Registration is $60 for individuals; $90 for married couples; and $29 for junior high, high school and college students. Children under 16 must be accompanied by adults. The cost is $45 per person for groups of five or more.

To register or for information call (913) 839-1643, or visit the Web sites at: www.kcmenofvalor. org, or www.kcwomenofvirtue.org.

Pilgrimage to Rome set for June

Holy Land pilgrimage offered

The Apostles of the Interior Life, along with spiritual director Father Steve Sotiroff, will host a spiritual pilgrimage to Italy from June 11 - 21.

Cities to be visited include: Rome, Orvieto, Assisi, Siena, Florence, and Loreto. The cost is $2799 (double occupancy). Optional trip insurance is available for $185. Registration and deposit is due by March 1.

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. Spiritual director Father Jorge Ramirez will lead participants on a tour through Bethlehem, Nazareth, Cana, 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. For information, call Pilar at (913) 341-7779.

LOCAL NEWS 7 Evangelist a featured speaker at MUC Continued from page 5 “So I began to preach on the street corners of St. Louis,” he said. “I did that for a couple of years, and people began calling me the chaotic evangelist.”

He was even invited to speak at various Protestant churches. With the blessing of thenArchbishop Raymond Burke, Lane continued to preach and evangelize, and founded his own ministry — Qorban Ministries. The name comes from the Gospel of Mark (7:11) and means something dedicated to God. “Basically, the message I will bring [to Men Under Construction] is one of encouragement,” aid Lane. “Men face so many evils and threats in our relativistic society. I will encourage the men to fight the good fight and to know about the gifts we have in our one, holy, catholic and apostolic church. We have been given all the means for salvation. Nothing is impossible if we walk in His light.”

Many men are broken, battered and bruised in a spiritual sense, he said. Sometimes they become ensnared in the evils of the world, like materialism and pornography.

One man who became ensnared by the evils of the world was his father, NFL Hall of Fame cornerback Dick “Night Train” Lane.

“He searched for love many years of his life, but he didn’t understand love in its truest meaning,” said Lane.

It was his mother, Mary O. Alexander, who laid the foundations of the Christian faith in his life and remains true to her faith even now.

Lane has taken his evangelistic efforts from the streets of St. Louis to the most popular shows on Catholic TV and radio, including “Catholic Answers Live,” Ave Maria Radio, Relevant Radio, EWTN, and others. He is also the cofounder of Catholic Men for Christ men’s conference in St. Louis.

For more information about Lane, go to the Web site at: www.catholicevangelist. net.

D

ear Friends in Christ, I am pleased to present to you our annual Archdiocesan Financial Report. Accountability and transparency are important watchwords throughout the non profit world today. Because every resource available to the Church is the result of the sacrificial giving of its members, I am committed to the Archdiocese holding itself to the highest standards of accountability.

When I wrote to you a year ago, we had just been through, perhaps, the worst nine months in the financial markets that this country has seen since the Great Depression. I shared with you my optimism that, in times of financial crisis, people who remain blest financially become more generous, realizing that there are greater needs and fewer individuals who are able to help. One year later, I am pleased to report that my optimism was not unfounded.

The 2009 Call to Share campaign received pledges of $4.7 million, $100,000 more than the prior year record. Through November 30th of this year, we have collected in excess of 92% of those pledges and our collection rate is running slightly ahead of the previous year.

Call to Share provides crucial funding for the educational, charitable and pastoral ministries that are essential for the vibrancy of the Catholic community in Northeast Kansas. A year ago, as we were preparing our budgets on the expenditure side, we were very conservative, attempting to keep our spending flat. With the success of Call to Share and our prudent budgeting, the Archdiocese was able to respond to a 30% increase in requests to Catholic Charities for emergency assistance with an additional $100,000 grant.

In spite of all the doom and gloom in the press, the Church in Northeast Kansas continues to thrive. Based on the building activity over the last several years in our parishes, Catholics in Northeast Kansas love the Church and are committed to its mission. The amount of new church construction in the Archdiocese is amazing. In 2009, new churches were completed for St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood as well as for St. Francis de Sales Parish in Lansing. Currently, new churches are under construction for Holy Angels Parish in Basehor, for St. Bernard Parish in Wamego, for St. Ann Parish in Effingham and for St. James Parish in Wetmore. In addition, there are several parishes that have completed or are nearing completion of significant additions or renovations to churches and schools. Also in September, Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese dedicated a beautiful new mausoleum at Resurrection Cemetery in Lenexa.

This building boom, in the Archdiocese, is only possible because of your generosity. Moreover, at a time when building activity has slowed in many segments of the economy, construction in our parishes has kept many people employed.

The Deposit and Loan program of the Archdiocese also has helped make possible much of the construction in the Archdiocese. The pooling of the funds of our parishes, schools and other ministries

2009 Finance Council Members Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann Father Gary Pennings Vicar General Father John Riley Chancellor L. Joseph Bauman Corpus Christi, Lawrence

makes it possible to provide depositers a better return on their investment and lower interest rates on loans than could be received from commercial banks. As is shown in the attached report, total loans as of June 30, 2009 are at almost $63,000,000 which is approximately a $10,000,000 increase over the Archdiocesan Deposit and Loan’s previous high.

This Deposit and Loan Fund continues to be a major source of financing the church building projects in the Archdiocese.

Included in this report is a listing of the members of our Archdiocesan Finance Council. I wish to take this opportunity to publicly thank each and every one of them for the significant commitment of their time and energy. I rely on their experience and wise counsel in making financial decisions for the Archdiocese. During uncertain economic times, the Church of Northeast Kansas is truly blest to have the level of experience and expertise that the members of the Finance Council bring to difficult financial decisions.

As has been my practice in the past, I want to bring you up to date on our pastoral planning efforts. During fiscal year 2009, we completed the pastoral plan for the Johnson County region, the largest region in the Archdiocese. With the advice and counsel of the Archdiocesan Presbyteral Council, we have reduced the number of regions from eleven to eight.

Only the Southern and Lawrence regions have not yet participated in the pastoral planning process. During the coming year, we will initiate planning in both of these regions, as well as begin to review and renew the pastoral plans in some regions.

Lastly, I want to acknowledge and thank each of you for the sacrifices you have made to support the mission of the Church in Northeast Kansas. Your support during these difficult times has made a great difference in our efforts to proclaim the Gospel, to make accessible the power and grace of the sacraments, to teach the fullness of our Catholic Faith to our youth and to make the love of Jesus real and tangible throughout the Archdiocese. Thank you for your love for Jesus and for His Church.

Sincerely yours in Jesus, the Lord of Life,

Frank J. Becker Corpus Christi, Lawrence

Gary D. Davis Church of the Ascension, Overland Park

LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS Liabilities Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses Lines of Credit Accrued Health and Dental Care Claims Deposits Payable Deferred Revenue Total Liabilities Net Assets Unrestricted Restricted Total Net Assets Total Liabilities and Net Assets

2009 $13,080,127 6,517,689 5,377,611 62,977,746 16,583,457 715,018 $105,251,648

2008 $29,053,813 5,607,689 6,795,776 53,949,106 16,018,993 882,458 $112,307,835

$1,105,490 4,000,000 1,500,000 51,680,442 518,043 58,803,975

$896,563 1,500,000 57,473,269 559,601 60,429,433

35,466,407 10,981,266 46,447,673

40,064,747 11,813,655 51,878,402

$105,251,648

$112,307,835

John Gillcrist Holy Spirit, Overland Park

Russ Jenkins Sacred Heart, Emporia L. Travis Hicks Corpus Christi, Lawrence Kevin T. Kelly Church of the Ascension, Overland Park

Mel Lavery Good Shepherd, Shawnee Kathleen Lusk Church of the Nativity, Leawood Michael Morrissey Church of the Nativity, Leawood Jody Olberding Mother Teresa of Calcutta, Topeka Mal Robinson Most Pure Heart of Mary, Topeka George Rebeck Holy Angels, Basehor

FINANCIAL REVIEW

T

he accompanying condensed financial statement represents the activities of the Chancery Offices of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. These statements do not include the activities of our many parishes, schools and other ministries that are governed by their own boards and report their financial information separately to their stake holders.

Financial statements of the Chancery Offices of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas are audited by the independent CPA firm of McGladrey & Pullen, LLP. This audit is conducted according to the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) in the United States. Their complete audit report of the financial statements for the years ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 is available on the Archdiocesan website which is www.archkck.org. The condensed financial statements referenced above have not been audited by any independent public accountants.

References to 2009 and 2008 in this review relate to the Archdiocesan fiscal year ending June 30 of those years.

CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION

Father Richard Halvorson St. Dominic, Holton

James A. Heintz Corpus Christi, Lawrence

John Seitzer St. Michael the Archangel, Leawood Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann

June 30, 2009 and 2008 ASSETS Cash and Investments Pledge and Accounts Receivable Interest in Catholic Foundation of NE KS Loans Receivable Land, Buildings & Equipment Other Assets Total Assets

Michael Easterday Corpus Christi, Lawrence

Fred M. Fosnacht Prince of Peace, Olathe

Condensed Statement of activities

From the Archbishop

Condensed Statements of Financial Position

Archdiocesan financial report

YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 2009, and 2008 REVENUES Contributions, bequests and pledges Archdiocesan assessments Fees and Services Investment Income Health and Dental Premiums

Gain on disposal of Land, building and equipment Total Unrestricted Revenue Net assets released from restriction Total Unrestricted Revenue and Other Support

2009 $1,504,615 2,799,799 2,689,620 (828,486) 14,956,807 228,692 21,351,047 7,367,532 $28,718,579

2008 $748,204 2,835,071 3,471,765 2,556,281 13,918,222 38,408 23,567,951 8,057,397 31,625,348

EXPENSES Ministry, program and auxiliary services expenses Administrative Fundraising Interest Expense Health and Dental Care Expenses Cor Christi Fund Distributions Contributions of property and cash Future Full of Hope Distributions Archbishop’s Call to Share Parish Rebates Total Expenditures

10,748,172 4,110,373 599,595 2,096,267 14,312,812 606,482 - 391,056 452,162 33,316,919

8,908,987 3,792,238 576,634 2,301,389 15,440,727 936,000 396,087 1,474,468 434,959 34,261,489

Change in Unrestricted Net Assets

(4,598,340)

(2,636,141)

Change in Restricted Net Assets Total Change in Net Assets Net Assets Beginning of the Year Net Assets End of the Year

(832,389) (5,430,729) 51,878,402 $46,447,673

(1,246,725) (3,882,866) 55,761,268 $51,878,402

Total assets as of June 30, 2009 were $105,000,000 which is approximately $7,000,000 less than at the same time in the prior year. Cash and investments showed a decrease during the year from $29,000,000 to $13,000,000. A significant portion of this was a $5,000,000 decrease in the market value of our Cor Christi fund.

The remaining $11,000,000 was primarily a reduction in cash balances that was used to fund additional lending activities. You might notice that total loans outstanding at 2008 were approximately $54,000,000 and at the end of 2009 was slightly under $63,000,000. This reflects the completion of a number of large building projects that have been underway for the last several years.

Pledges and accounts receivable increased approximately $900,000 and this is due to the general economic conditions which are causing some parishes and ministries to fall behind in their payments to the Archdiocese.

Interest in the Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas was down $1.4 million and again this was a reflection of market value adjustments as the stock market has gone through a very difficult period.

Total liabilities at the end of 2009 is approximately $1.6 million less than it was in the prior year. Two significant changes have occurred as a result of that net decrease. The first is drawing on our lines of credit. The Archdiocese maintains $15 million in lines of credit with two banks to use as a back up for periods like this where our loan demand is significantly above the amount that we generate through our deposit and loan program. As of June 30, 2009 the Archdiocese had borrowed $4,000,000 on these lines of credit. In

addition, you will notice a decrease in the deposits payable from $57,000,000 down to approximately $52,000,000.

Again, this is a result from building activity where the parishes saved significant dollars before they can begin the construction and those funds are withdrawn first and then whatever additional monies are needed are funded through our loan program. I believe that this year is the first time that the loan program for the Archdiocese has exceeded $60,000,000. The deposit and loan program continued to be a significant source of funds to support the building of new churches and schools.

Total net assets decreased from approximately $52,000,000 to $46,000,000 at June 30, 2009. The unrestricted decrease of approximately $4.5 million is almost completely the result of the decrease of the market value of the Cor Christi funds and investments in CFNEK Endowments. On the restricted side a decrease is shown of approximately $900,000 which is primarily the wind down of the Future Full of Hope capital campaign.

CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF ACTIVITIES

Condensed statement of activities is a recap of our total revenues and total expenses for the year resulting in a change in total net assets of the organization.

On the revenue side our total revenues decreased approximately $2.8 million from $31.6 million a year ago to $28.7 million in the year 2009.

Contributions, bequests and pledges increased about $750,000 which was a result of several very generous bequests that were left to the Archdiocese during the year. Fees and services were down approximately $800,000 which was the result of change in market value of assets which the Archdiocese has an interest in that are invested through the Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas. Investment income is down from a positive $2.5 million last year to a loss of $800,000 in the current year. This change of $3.3 million is again a reflection of the market value declines in the Cor Christi funds. On a positive note revenues in our health care and dental self insurance plan were up approximately $1,000,000

this year while at the same time our expenses in health and dental care claims were down $1.1 million. This leaves our self funded plan again in a very strong financial position.

On the expense side, ministry program and auxiliary service expenses were up $1.8 million for the year over the prior year. The bulk of this occured because of one time grants for some educational expenditures. Religious personnel expenses were up approximately $400,000 which was primarily due to some new educational programs that have been made available to priest personnel.

Cor Christi fund distributions were down over $300,000 which is a reflection of the poor performance of the investments. Future Full of Hope and Call to Share distributions and rebates were down almost $1,000,000 which was primarily the result of the Future Full of Hope campaign coming to closure.

The result of all these activities was a decrease in unrestricted funds of $4.6 million and a decrease in restricted funds of $800,000.

As has been our custom in these annual reports for the last several years I want to bring you up to date on costs relative to the clergy sexual misconduct. As we reported last year, going back some 50+ years the diocese has expended approximately $960,000 in settlements and assistance to victims.

I am pleased to report that during the 2009 fiscal year and up to and including the date of this report, the Archdiocese had no new claims and has paid out less than $1,000 for the counseling of victims.

CONCLUSION

The staff of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is pleased to provide you with this brief review of our financial statements for the year ended June 30, 2009. For those of you who have a more serious interest in understanding the Archdiocesan fiscal financial position, I would encourage you to visit our website and review the complete audited report. The religious and lay staffs of the Chancery office continue to be committed to the stewardship and the shepherding of the resources that you make available to us.

12 CLASSIFIEDS Employment President - The members of the board of trustees of Maur Hill-Mount Academy, Atchison, are seeking a faithfilled, proven leader to become the president of MH-MA, a Catholic, international, college preparatory, day and residency high school in the Atchison County pastoral region of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. Maur Hill – Mount Academy is a coeducational, comprehensive high school with 178 students enrolled and 50 staff employed.

The school, accredited by the Kansas State Department of Education and the AdvancEd international accreditation agency, offers a full complement of activities. MH-MA prides itself in educating young men and women in the Benedictine tradition — prayer, work, and love. The new president will be expected to be a person of great faith, a registered and active member of his or her parish, in order to lead the school’s faith initiatives. In addition, the new president must be skilled in financial management, strategic planning, and development. Interested individuals should send cover letter, resume, and pastor letter of reference, by Jan. 29, to: Jonathan Mize, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Maur Hill – Mount Academy, c/o Dr. Kathleen O’Hara, Superintendent of Schools, Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109.

E-mail documents may be sent to: kohara@archkckcs.org.

Principal - Holy Trinity Elementary School, Lenexa, is seeking a dynamic, experienced 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, as well as excellent interpersonal skills. Holy Trinity serves 698 students and employs a strong staff of 38 teachers in grades K - 8, and is looking for an excellent communicator who can maintain and 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 engaging the entire Holy Trinity 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 Feb. 4. Questions may be directed to 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.

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 January 22. For information or questions, contact Dr. Kathleen O’Hara, Superintendent of Schools, Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, at (913) 7211570 or send and e-mail to her at: kohara@archkckcs.org.

Principal - Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Raytown, Mo., seeks an enthusiastic and visionary Catholic school principal to guide our PreK - 8th grade program. Our Lady of Lourdes School was established in 1951 and currently enrolls 137 students. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a strong and faithful Catholic administrative background.

The qualities for this position require the candidate to demonstrate a strong ability to communicate well with staff, students, and parents; possess marketing and recruitment skills; and display a collaborative leadership style to lead others in the mission of the church. The qualified candidate must be an active practicing Catholic in good standing with the church; with a minimum of 3 years teaching experience; a master’s degree in education, administration or a related field; and an administrative certificate from the state of Missouri, or the ability to obtain one. For information or application materials, contact the Catholic Schools Office at (816) 756-1858, ext. 274, or visit the Web site at: http://jobs. diocese-kcsj.org/jobs/.

Savior Pastoral Center - Has an immediate opening for a part-time night and weekend security person. On-site lodging is provided, as the individual is required to live at the center. Position is responsible for security, caretaking and light custodial duties. Ideal candidate will have some security/custodial experience. Hours vary and average 15 – 20 hrs./week, with some weekend work required. Fax or e-mail cover letter and resume, by Jan. 27, to Kathleen Thomas, director of human resources, at (913) 721-2680 or to: kthomas@archkck.org.

THE LEAVEN • JANUARY 15, 2009 Facilities manager/bookkeeper - Our Lady of Unity Parish, Kansas City, Kan., has an immediate opening for a full-time position combining the bookkeeping and facilities management needs of our parish and school. Responsibilities include hands-on upkeep and repairs to facilities, contacting and managing contractors for major facilities repairs, organizing and supervising teams and individuals in maintenance work, as well as balancing the books, preparing monthly reports for income and expenditures, processing accounts payable and other bookkeeping needs.

Computer competence a must; experience with QuickBooks and payroll helpful. The position requires strong verbal and written communication skills; demonstrated experience with facility maintenance; a good understanding of financial/accounting principles and stewardship; and a teamwork perspective. Spanish speaking is a plus. This is a full-time position (30 - 40 hrs.) with a comprehensive benefits package. Interested applicants should contact Father Kent O’Connor at (913) 677-4621 or send a cover letter and resume, via e-mail, to: oluparishkck@gmail.com. Application deadline is Jan. 29.

St. Joseph Early Education Center - Has a postion open for a full-time toddler teacher and a full-time infant teacher. Qualified applicants must be at least 18 years old and meet lead teacher qualifications for the state of Kansas. Interested candidates may call (913) 631-0004 for application instructions, or send your resume, via e-mail, to: nwacker@archkckcs.org.

THE LEAVEN • JANUARY 15, 2010 Housecleaning - I will clean your house the old fashioned way – hand mopping, etc. 20+ years exp., excellent references, free estimates. Call Sharon at (816) 322-0006.

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.

Increase your income – Interest rates are low, but a gift annuity with the Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas often pays effective rates of over 10 percent for the rest of your life. Your gift benefits your parish or another Catholic organization of your choice in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. You may even get a tax deduction. For information, call (913) 647-0365.

Home Improvement Custom countertops - Laminates installed within 5 days. Cambria, granite, and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.

The Legends in Kansas City, Kan. Edwardsville Court Apartments Highrise, 531 S. 4th St., Edwardsville. Call (913) 4416007. 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

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.

Home for sale - 2919 W. 51st St., Westwood. Walking distance to St. Agnes and Bishop Miege. This house is not a drive-by. Much larger than it appears. 4 BR, 3 BA, two-car detached garage. Recently remodeled kitchen with granite and new flooring. $288,950. Call Marie Greenhaw, Reece & Nichols, at (913) 634-9034.

based health care products distributor has immediate openings for part-time material handlers to work from 1:30 - 5:30 p.m. Must be detail-oriented and enjoy working on your feet. Starting pay: $12/hour; bonus and other benefits offered. Friendly and professional work environment. Apply in person at: 11691 W. 85th St., Lenexa, KS 66214.

Brack Home Repair - “Call Dan when you need it done.” I do all types of home repair. Carpentry, drywall, plumbing, electrical, painting, tile, wood-rot and more. No project too big or small. Senior discount and insured. Free estimates. Call (913) 219-5388 or visit my Web site at: www. brackhomerepair.com. (Philippians 4:13)

Villa For Sale – Maintenance-provided ranch home with 2 BR and 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.

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.

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.

Distribution center personnel needed - Lenexa-

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

Voice lessons and cantor training - Call Nancy M. Kennedy at (816) 943-6339.

Tree service - Pruning ornamental trees for optimal growth and beauty and removal of hazardous limbs or problem trees. Free consultation and bid. Safe, insured, professional. Brad Grabs, Green Solutions of KC, (913) 244-5838. www.GreenSolutionsKC.com.

Retired nurse - Looking to help a family in the new year. Will provide child and/or elder care, do housecleaning, run errands, and provide transportation to/from appts.

Reasonable rates, excellent references. Years of experience with seniors. Call Pam at (913) 579-5276.

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 Home-Senior 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.

Machine quilting by Lyn - I also do T-shirt, photo, and memorial quilts. Official Hobbs distributor. Located in Overland Park. Call Lyn at (913) 492-8877.

PC repair / virus and spyware removal / PC upgrades - Microsoft certified; 10 yrs. experience. $35/hr. labor. Member of Sacred Heart Parish. Call Matt at (816) 8766619 or send an e-mail to: mattcomputerfix@gmail.com.

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: jayhawktax @sunflower.com. Serving Kansas City, Lawrence, and Topeka.

Adept Home Improvements Where quality still counts!

Basement finishing, Kitchens and baths, Electrical and plumbing.

Licensed and insured.

(913) 599-7998

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) 8590471.

Bath, kitchen and basement remodels -Quality work; reasonable prices. 25 yrs. experience. Free estimates.

JoCo area. Call Ralph at (913) 707-9589.

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.

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

Everything plumbing - Leaks, faucets, toilets, sinks, disposals, repairs and replacements. Over 20 years experience. Fully licensed. Service anytime – days/nights/wknds.

Contact Mike at (913) 488-4930. Member of Church of the Ascension Parish, Overland Park.

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

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

For sale Are you interested in healthier and safer products for your family, as well as helping the environment and saving money? Consider switch-

ing stores. Contact Lori at (913) 645-9120 or send an email to her at: lannmc@live.com. Member of St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.

16

Jan.

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.

Bishop Miege High School, 5041 Reinhardt Dr., Roeland Park, will offer a make-up eighth-grade placement test at 8:30 a.m. on Jan. 16. Bring two #2 pencils and the $15 exam fee. Calculators are not allowed.

Bishop Ward High School, 708 N. 18th St., Kansas City, Kan., will offer a make-up eighthgrade placement test at 8 a.m. on Jan. 16.

Bring two #2 pencils and the $13 exam fee. Parents are invited for a light breakfast, presentation and tour of the school while the students are taking the test.

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

For sale - Bell & Howell 32” TV with converter box,

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.

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.

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 at (913) 647-0350 or send an e-mail to him at: prolife@archkck.org.

plus a never-used GE electric range. Both for $400 cash.

Call (913) 342-4027 after 4 p.m. or on wknds.

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.

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. Father Anthony Kiplagat of Prince of Peace, Olathe, will preside. Fellowship follows. For information,

call Ruth at (913) 649-2026.

St. Agnes Parish, 5250 Mission Rd., Roeland Park, will celebrate the feast of St. Agnes with a Holy Hour at 7 p.m. on Jan. 21 that will include vespers, eucharistic adoration and Benediction.

22

St. Patrick School, Kansas City, Kan., will celebrate its diamond anniversary on Jan. 22 with a dinner and dance fundraiser, beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the parish center. The cost is $15 for adults; $10 for children ages 5 12; $5 per person for the dance only. There will be a beer and wine cash bar. For information or reservations, contact the school office at (913) 299-8131.

Father John Riley will celebrate the archdiocesan monthly pro-life Mass at 8 a.m. on Jan. 22 at Sts. Cyril & Methodius Church, 44 N. Mill, Kansas City, Kan., followed by a rosary procession to an abortion clinic four blocks away.

Eucharistic adoration is available for those not processing, with Benediction concluding services at 10 a.m.

The Wyandotte County Kansans for Life will hold a candlelight vigil from 7 - 8 p.m. on Jan. 22, the anniversary of Roe v. Wade, at 7th and Central, Kansas City, Kan. Join in a onehour, peaceful, prayerful vigil and be a witness to the dignity of every person.

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.

St. Thomas Aquinas High School, 11411 Pflumm, Overland Park, will offer a make-up eighth-grade placement test at 8 a.m. on Jan. 23. Arrive in the Commons by 7:45 a.m. with two #2 pencils, a calculator, your Social Security number and the $15 testing fee.

St. James Academy, 24505 Prairie Star Pkwy., Lenexa, will offer a make-up eighthgrade placement test at 8:30 a.m. on Jan. 23.

Bring two #2 pencils, a calculator and the $15 testing fee.

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.

The Daughters of Isabella, Little Flower Circle no. 503, will meet at 1 p.m. on Jan. 24 at Rossiter Hall, 204 S.W. 8th, Topeka.

The Knights of Columbus of Christ the

King Church, 53rd and Leavenworth Rd., Kansas City, Kan., will host a Salisbury steak dinner from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Jan. 24. The cost is $6 for adults; children eat free. Carry-outs will be available.

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

The Ignatian Spirituality Center of Kansas City will sponsor a one-day workshop, entitled “Your Path to a Loving Relationship with God,” presented by Father Vern Heinsz, SJ, from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. on Jan. 30 at the Finucane Center on the Rockhurst University campus. The cost is $35 per person. For information, visit the Web site at: www.ignatiancenterkc.org. To register, by Jan. 22, call (816) 523-5115 ext. 212, or send an e-mail to: khodel@ignatiancenterkc.org.

Join the Singles of Nativity for happy hour and bowling on Jan. 30. We will gather at 6 p.m. at Tequila Harry’s, College Blvd. and Quivira, Overland Park, followed by bowling at AMF Center, Alt. 69 and College Blvd., Overland Park. For information, send an e-mail to: social@son-ministry.org.

“The Art, Prayer and Practice of Meditation,” a meditation workshop facilitated by Tom Jacobs, will be offered from 9 a.m. - noon on Jan. 30 at St. Joseph Medical Center, I-435 and State Line Rd., Kansas City, Mo. The practice of meditation heals past wounds, hurtful memories, and pent-up fears and gives participants a spiritual practice that enhances how they see God’s presence in themselves and in others. Preregistration is necessary. For information or to register, call Jacobs at (816) 6193499 or send an e-mail to him at: tbjacobs@ earthlink.net0.

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

CALENDAR 13 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.

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 oneday 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 for tickets, send an e-mail to: vocation@archkck.org or visit the Web site at: www.kckvocations.com.

5-6

Feb.

Sophia Center, 751 S. 8th St., Atchison, will host “Return to the Land of Your Soul,” a retreat presented by Sister Marcia Ziska, OSB, focusing on the journey home to the true self, from 5 p.m. on Feb. 5 to 4 p.m. on Feb. 6. For information or to register, call (913) 360-6151, or visit the Web site at: www. mountosb.org/sophia.html.

Misc.

Divorced? Widowed? Beginning Experience Weekend gently helps people move through their loss to a new beginning in their lives. The next weekend for the Kansas City area will be Feb. 19 - 21 at Sanctuary of Hope, 2601 Ridge, Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call John at (913) 219-3465 in Kansas City, Sue at (785) 331-2216 in Lawrence, Michelle at (785) 478-3481 in Topeka, or visit the Web site at: www.beginningexperience.org.

*** Wanted to Buy *** Antique and vintage costume jewelry Member St. Joseph Parish Renee Maderak (913) 631-7179

Miscellaneous Want a healthy and good lifestyle? Come join us for a very exciting adventure. For information, call (913) 342-4027.

Concrete Work

Any type of repair and new work Driveways, Walks, Patios

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, hip-hop/rap, golden oldies. Member of St. Therese Parish, KCMO. Call Zepster’s A to Z Party DJ’s at (816) 741-4777.

Member of Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish

Harvey M. Kascht (913) 262-1555

Villa St. Francis

16600 W. 126th Street • Olathe, Kansas 66062 Phone: (913) 829-5201 Fax: (913) 829-5399 Daily Mass in the Chapel at 10 a.m.

• Medicare and Kansas Medicaid certified • 24 - hour nursing care • Dementia/Alzheimer’s unit • Physical, occupational and speech therapist on staff/ Rapid recovery • Nutritious Home cooked meals • Private and Semi Private rooms • Beauty and Barber Shop • 24 hour snacks Affiliated with the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas

14 COMMENTARY

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

“No other priest was more organized than Father Norbert Lickteig.

He was strict, and he ran things with an iron fist, but that iron fist was very gentle if you got to know him.”

Father Rick Storey, pastor of Holy Spirit Parish in Overland Park See story on page 3

THE LEAVEN • january 15, 2010

M

THE LEAVEN • january 15, 2010

Mark my words

family matters

Get a jump on the winter blahs

We are forever challenged by examples of the faithful

ove over, Ray Ewry.

I’m sorry, but your world record for the standing high jump — set way back on July 16, 1900 — has finally been surpassed. That jump of 1.65 meters (around 65 inches) was very impressive, but I cleared that easily the other day.

Honestly, I had no intention of breaking Ewry’s record. In fact, I wasn’t even in training for the event — nor properly attired for it. My recordshattering display happened last Friday afternoon, around one, in the comfortable confines of my kitchen. I’d gone to the refrigerator to gather up some lunch. No big deal. When I opened the door, though, a voice came from the deepest recesses of the fridge saying, “Is it cool in here, or is it just me?” That’s when I leapt out of my skin and left Ewry’s record jump in the dust.

After returning back to earth, I opened the door again to investigate.

This time, the voice started singing, to the melody of “Up On The Housetop”: “Here in the fridge/where it’s nice and cool/ There’s one very simple rule/ Once you’ve found what you’re looking for/ Do me a favor and close the door. . . . Close the door!”

I did. Immediately.

I located the vocal culprit on the third opening, right after he said, “Hey, close the door! You’re letting out all the

cold!” The voice belonged to a six-inch plastic snowman that was cleverly hidden (by my housekeeper) behind a carton of orange juice on the bottom shelf.

For the next couple of days, I got a big kick out of the jabbering snowman . . . right until I found out there was one more thing that he could say. He uttered it on one of those days when, because of excessive stress, I’d apparently been in the fridge a lot, seeking comfort food. The charming little guy exclaimed, “You, again? I’m gonna have to get a lock on that door!”

Really? That wasn’t something I wanted to hear. I promptly scooped the snowman up, marched to the front door, and flung him outside into a huge snowdrift, setting a brand-new world record in hurling. OK, I really didn’t throw the annoying little guy outside, but I did immediately press his “off” button.

I mention that talking plastic snowman because he was a simple, silly surprise that made me laugh and brightened my day (even while reminding me of how often I open that refrigerator door). He taught me that it doesn’t take much to bring a little light into someone’s day.

And that chatty little guy was responsible for bringing people together.

The first time I saw the housekeeper after she’d planted the snowman, she

had a guilty but amused expression on her face. I found out that the snowman had been making the rounds of her children’s homes . . . at least until they reached the point I did and decided to either hurl him outside or give him back so he could visit somewhere else.

Light and community: Those two components are essential to getting people through the winter months, especially given this brutal weather we’ve had recently. We need one another and can be good for one another. Our faith understands this so well: That’s one of the reasons why we’re called to gather as a community at least once a week for Mass. We come into the presence of Jesus, our light. We take that light into our hearts at Communion and then are empowered to bring that light to others, particularly those whose lives may be shadowed by loneliness, grief, depression, poverty, injustice, or despair.

Don’t let these short daylight hours of winter smother your spirit. Refuse to let the cold temperatures and snow isolate you from others. Be creative in reaching out and diligent in acting as a light for others. Pick up the phone to check on an elderly neighbor, scribble an unexpected note to a distant friend, donate food or supplies to a charity, share a leisurely meal with someone, or simply schedule a “game night” for the neighborhood. In all these simple actions, we bind ourselves to others and lighten the gloominess that these days can trigger.

By the way, you might want to open your refrigerator door a bit more carefully the next time around. After all, I’d like my “unofficial” standing high jump record to stay intact at least for a little while!

the gospel truth

Scripture Readings Second week of ordinary time Jan. 17 Second Sunday in ordinary time Is 62: 1-5; Ps 96: 1-3, 7-10; Jn 2: 1-11 Jan. 18 Monday 1 Sm 15: 16-23; Ps 50: 8-9, 16-17, 21, 23; Mk 2: 18: 22 Jan. 19 Tuesday 1 Sm 16: 1-13; Ps 89: 20-22, 27-28; Mk 2: 23-28 Jan. 20 Fabian, pope, martyr; Sebastian, martyr 1 Sm 17: 32-33, 37, 40-51; Ps 144: 1b, 2, 9-10; Mk 3: 1-6 Jan. 21 Agnes, virgin, martyr 1 Sm 18: 6-9; 19: 1-7; Ps 56: 2-3, 9-13; Mk 3: 7-12 Jan. 22 Vincent, deacon, martyr 1 Sm 24: 3-21; Ps 57: 2-4, 6, 11; Mk 3: 13-19 Jan. 23 Saturday 2 Sm 1: 1-4, 11-12, 19, 23-27; Ps 80: 2-3, 5-7; Mk 3: 20-21

I

commentary 15

Cana wedding rich with symbolism

n the popular novels by Dan Brown, the character Robert Langdon plays an important role.

As a professional symbologist, he is able to decode arcane clues to solve mysteries that baffle everyone else, a modern-day Sherlock Holmes. In realdid this as the beginning of his signs ity, there is no academic field of symat Cana in Galilee and so revealed his bology as such, but there is something glory, and his disciples began to bewhich approximates it called semiotics. lieve in him.” The sign mentioned here Umberto Eco stands out as a current describes the miracle that Jesus works expert in that area of study. at the wedding feast, when he changes Scholars of semiotics distinguish bewater into wine. Throughtween various types of signs. out John’s Gospel, the word Some are natural signs, SECOND SUNDAY IN “sign” is used instead of mirwhich can operate without ORDINARY TIME acle. That is because these any human being intendJn 2: 1-11 wonderful events point to ing to send a message. For another reality — they have a example, smoke is a natural meaning beyond themselves. sign of fire. Other signs are In terms of semiotics, we might ask icons, which image the object that what category the signs of John’s Gosthey signify. For example, a traffic sign pel fit into? Actually, they go beyond showing a walking stick man stands for mere sign and enter the category of a pedestrian crossing. symbol. Simply put, a symbol can sugOn the other hand, some signs are gest many different meanings. A sympurely arbitrary. They convey meanbol has a richness and depth which far ing only by means of convention. For exceeds that of a sign, just as wine has example, a stop sign does not look like a richness and depth which exceeds the act of stopping. A person can only that of water. understand it if he or she can read the John’s Gospel calls the miracle at word “stop.”

Cana the first of Jesus’ signs. That Sunday’s Gospel reading, Jn 2:1points to other signs to follow in the 11, concludes with the words: “Jesus

Gospel. In all, they number seven. That in itself is significant, since the number seven in the Bible stands for fullness and completion. In other words, these seven signs in John’s Gospel claim to show us all we can know about Jesus. They culminate in the cross and resurrection, the sign par excellence of Jesus’ love.

What in particular can this miracle at Cana mean for us? The changing of water into wine points to the transformative power of Jesus’ love, which can turn even sinners into saints. The huge amount of wine, 120 to 180 gallons, suggests the abundance of God’s grace, which comes to us through Jesus Christ. The intoxicating nature of wine can reflect the ways we can become drunk with God’s love. Note the reaction of bystanders to the apostles on the day of Pentecost: “They have had too much new wine” (Acts 2:13).

In the Bible, a wedding feast often looks forward to the joys of heaven.

The whole communion of saints rejoices together, just as the whole village would rejoice at a wedding.

We can draw much meaning from this event in the life of Jesus. We cannot tie it down to just one point. It is too rich for that.

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

T

he weather this past Christmas resembled a giant snow globe. However, we were not viewing the snow as much as we were actively participating in the tumultuous whirlwind of the frosty flakes.

The beauty of participating in the holy days and holy times of the life of the church provided many opportunities to venture out in the inclement weather. The walk from the parking lot to the church, with the snow splashing on your face, and returning to the freezing car was a bitter experience.

The snow was not only wet, but

blowing quite dramatically. It gave me a deeper understanding of the phrase “chilled to the bone.”

This past Christmas season renewed a challenge that was placed before me in 2000 as the archdiocesan family life office published a book, entitled “The Family of Christ.” Through parishioners in the archdiocese, we gathered stories that reflected the presence of Christ in our lives. Every story had a message that penetrated the heart and helped us to recognize the presence of God among us.

One story that continues to rest on my mind and challenge me came from Bob Staley in Atchison.

At his mother Ethel’s funeral in Iowa, he learned of her humble, unwavering love for the Blessed Mother.

He related how on a bitter-cold, icy morning, the priest awoke for Mass and became aware of the ice-encrusted trees and ground. He thought that no one would be attending Mass. But just to make sure, he put on his long johns, two pairs of slacks and heavy gloves for his journey to church. Because of his equilibrium problem, he crawled from the rectory to the church where he opened the door to find that Ethel was quietly praying.

He asked her why she was there and how she had arrived. Her explanation was extraordinary. She had crawled from her home to the church.

She explained: “I crawled here on my hands and knees. I have always wanted to make the nine First Fridays and something always interfered, and this was my ninth Friday and I wasn’t going to miss it.”

At that point in her life she was frail and 86 years old.

This is the challenge I carry. Do I love my God and the Blessed Mother with a strong, loving and sacrificial heart? Am I willing to rise above my grumbles on cold and snowy mornings as I attend Mass? Will I ever attain the gentle, giving heart of a woman that gave her all to her God? I am forever challenged by Ethel.

Her story rests snugly in my heart.

Jacki Corrigan is the archdiocesan consultant for the office of family life.

Do unto others

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The Hahns like you’ve never heard before

erhaps you’re like me, and sometime in your conversion to Christ, you providentially happened upon a recording of a rising-star Presbyterian pastor who found himself in a crisis of faith.

In the story, the Protestant preacher related his exciting journey through Scripture: independently making amazing exegetical discoveries, only to later learn his thesis was originally taught by a Catholic Church Father and is known as Catholic magisterial teaching. His studies led him to pepper his religious services and sermons with the images of the bread of sacrifice and to use terms like “covenant” and “priestly people.”

His congregation enthusiastically

embraces this spiritual leadership until one day, one of his congregants unwittingly convicts him: “Reverend, I really enjoy what you are doing with the services; they remind me of when I was Catholic.”

After a few clandestine reconnaissance trips to a Catholic Mass, the Protestant preacher realizes Christ might be calling him to drop everything and become a Catholic. What follows is a harrowing spiritual journey for both the pastor and his wife that twists and turns for years before the couple comes into full communion with the Church

of Rome.

If you’ve had the chance to spiritually benefit from their testimony — one of the great conversion stories of our age — then you are probably already familiar with Scott and Kimberley Hahn.

Catholics in northeast Kansas have been given a rare opportunity to hear both Hahns speak on Jan. 29 and 30 at the Men of Valor and Women of Virtue conference. For the past several years, the archdiocesan office for social justice and the My House initiative have been blessed to help develop and host the nation’s premiere men’s ecumenical purity conference. And this year’s Friday and Saturday event promises to be even more outstanding.

For the first time, both men and women will be served by this lifeaffirming conference. Both groups will explore and address the challenges of living in an over-sexualized culture.

Please join Scott and Kimberley

Hahn as they speak together about “living a pure life in an impure world.”

In addition to these two outstanding Catholic keynotes, the conference has also invited two amazing speakers from the Protestant tradition: Dr. Mark Laaser and Dannah Gresh.

This event brings both Catholics and other Christians together to realize our common ground and the Gospel’s special call to live a chaste life. It also creates opportunities for disciples of Jesus to get real and support one another as we face the tremendous challenges a sexualized culture puts upon living an authentically Christian life. Don’t miss this conference.

To register or for more information, go to the Web sites at: www.kcmenofvalor. org or www.kcwomenofvirtue.org.

Bill Scholl is the archdiocesan consultant for social justice. You can e-mail him at: socialjustice@archkck.org.

as the church prays

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New translation of Mass to be introduced soon

ell, folks, it looks like it’s really going to happen. The new translation of the missal into English is complete, having been approved by the bishops of the United States and delivered to Rome for confirmation.

Within the next two years, the “changes” will be in place. Most of the people’s parts will change just slightly, with the exception of a very different Glory to God and a fairly different Creed.

Virtually everything the priest says will be different, although the order and structure of the Mass will remain the same. It’s not a new Mass, but a

new translation of the Latin text into English.

Since the Second Vatican Council, all liturgical books of the Latin rite are first composed in Latin. From these editions, they are then translated into the vernacular languages. This has been the case since greater permission to use the vernacular languages was permitted. Of course, the Mass can always be said in Latin, even in the revised form which followed Vatican II. The new translation will provide a time of transition for all of us. But in the end, this translation will become

familiar to us all, as did the first one, and will provide a very accurate translation of the Latin text into English, much better than the first. This is the biggest reason this decade-long project was first tackled — the need for a more accurate English translation.

Another transition, which many of us hope for, is a better understanding of the Mass and how its celebration should occupy the very center of our faith lives. The bishops of our country are asking their diocesan liturgists to assist them in making this new translation an opportunity for renewed catechesis on the sacred liturgy.

It is imperative that we understand what the Mass — Real Presence, holy sacrifice and sacramental banquet — is really all about. The entire Mass — introductory rites, Liturgy of the Word, Liturgy of the Eucharist, Communion rite and concluding rite — all comprise one complete act of divine worship,

which Pope John Paul II called the “source and summit of the life and mission of the Church.”

Training and formation for our priests is already planned to begin late this summer. Formation for the lay faithful is also important. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Web site has a page dedicated to the new translation (www.usccb.org/roman missal), and informative reading there abounds.

Depending on when the new translation is to be actually implemented, the lay faithful will also have the opportunity to not only discuss the newly translated texts, but to also dig deeper into the mystery and meaning of the eucharistic celebration.

Stay tuned.

Michael Podrebarac is the archdiocesan consultant for the liturgy office.

16 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • january 15, 2010

A standout couple This year’s ACTS honorary chairpersons are known for their influence in parish and community

By Kara Hansen Leaven staff

PRAIRIE VILLAGE — When she asks someone to be an honorary chairperson for the Archbishop’s Call to Share annual appeal each year, Lesle Knop can just about predict the incredulous response she will receive.

“You want us? Why us?”

It’s no wonder, really.

To even be nominated for such an honor, candidates must be people who serve their parish and community, love their Catholic faith, and work to share it with others.

It would be a challenge to accomplish all of that without a deep degree of humility —something Knop has come to expect from the large list of candidates submitted by priests around the archdiocese each year.

“People think they are unworthy of that type of honor,” said Knop, executive director of the Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas and the archdiocesan office of stewardship and development. “We’re looking for people who live a faithful, honorable life and we want to recognize that.”

Knop, along with the clergy advisory committee, together review the nominees recommended by their pastors. They are looking for people who exemplify genuine stewardship in their lives.

As one might imagine, narrowing down the worthy candidates each year is a sizeable task, particularly with the wide variety of gifts and acts of service Catholics in the archdiocese bring to the table.

“It’s always very difficult because there are so many outstanding individuals in the archdiocese,” said Knop.

“We try to choose individuals who reflect people who could be any one of us, people who have an impact on the lives of people in their parish and the larger community.”

Knop said that this year one couple in particular stood out — Bob and Judy Vohs — for their influence on their parish and community.

Together the Vohs have served as RCIA sponsors in their home parish of St. Ann in Prairie Village, working with those planning to enter the church. Bob regularly lectors at Mass and serves at daily Mass, where another of his deep commitments is revealed.

“Every time Bob serves Mass with me, I ask if there’s

Leaven photo by Susan McSpadden

Bob and Judy Vohs are this year’s honorary chairpersons for the Archbishop’s Call to Share. anything he would like to pray for,” said Father Keith Lunsford, pastor of St. Ann. “Without hesitating, Bob always says, ‘Of course. For vocations, for our seminarians, and for

our religious.’”

Currently the president of the Kansas City, Kansas Serra Club, Bob has a special place in his heart for vocations.

“If I’m not able to lead prayer

at our Wednesday morning adoration, Bob is always there to lead the prayer for vocations,” said Father Lunsford.

Father Lunsford also said he admires how Judy consistently

brings her elderly mother to daily Mass.

“They are just salt-of-theearth, wonderful people,” he said. “They are humble, faithfilled, and show us what it means to be ever-constant and ever-faithful.”

Bob and Judy have four children and 12 grandchildren and have been married for 46 years.

The Vohs are retired from the travel agency they owned, but that has not slowed down their involvement in their parish and community.

In the past, Judy has served on her parish council, school board, and the Mother’s Club board at Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park. She also makes meals for the food kitchen and bereavement luncheons at the parish.

Bob serves on the grounds committee at St. Ann and has tutored in various places in the community, including working with Spanish-speaking students at All Saints in Kansas City, Kan. The couple believes strongly in participating in the Archbishop’s Call to Share and have been members of the Crosier Society for the past five years.

“Beyond the parish level, there are so many needs in the archdiocese, such as helping with vocations, Catholic Charities, and the schools that need assistance,” said Bob. Judy agreed.

“Call to Share supports ministry with college kids, such as the Didde Center (at Emporia State University) and the St. Lawrence Center (at the University of Kansas) and that’s important,” she said.

The couple found out they were selected by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann to be honorary chairpersons of the 2010 Archbishop’s Call to Share last fall, following the recommendation of the clergy advisory committee. Judy said their initial reaction was one of shock.

“There are many people chosen who are much more worthy than us, who contribute much more than we have or will ever be able to,” said Bob. “We’re very humbled and blessed.”

Knop said the Vohs exemplify stewardship in their lives and are therefore a good fit as chairpersons.

“You can see Bob and Judy are planting seeds for the future,” said Knop. “They are living out what stewardship is — a giving back because we are so grateful.”