04-23-10 Vol. 31 No. 35

www.theleaven.com | Newspaper of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas | Vol. 31, No. 35 april 23, 2010

Avery Fliger is the designer, owner and operator of The Clothes Closet, a free clothing store for those in need located at Holy Angels Church in Basehor.

Avery’s Closet

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Story and photos by Jill Ragar Esfeld

ASEHOR — Given a choice between going fishing and picking out clothes for a girl, 14-year-old Avery Fliger would much rather go fishing.

But when the Holy Spirit calls, Avery is ready to serve — and sometimes that means passing up an afternoon of fishing to coordinate an outfit.

Avery, a member of Holy Angels Parish

in Basehor, is owner and operator of The Clothes Closet, a second-hand store where the underprivileged can find gently-used clothing within their price range: Everything in Avery’s shop is free.

But sometimes, those in need can’t make it to The Clothes Closet, located in an annex building on the parish campus. In that case, Avery takes age, sex, and size information Turn to “Clothes” on page 16

How you can help

Because space is limited, The Clothes Closet doesn’t need more clothing donations right now, but it does need customers.

Avery is appealing to any organizations or people who work with the underprivileged to get the word out about his unique service.

The Clothes Closet has a variety of clothes and shoes for all ages, including many dress clothes and business suits. Everything is free to those in need.

People can shop at the Clothes Closet, or Avery can select clothing by request and package it to be picked up.

If you or someone you know would like to utilize the Clothes Closet, call Teresa Fliger at (816) 726-5614 or send an e-mail to her at: tafliger@ hotmail.com.

Governor vetoEs pro-life bill

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU At the frenetic pace most of us live our lives, “Keep holy the Sabbath” has become one of the hardest commandments to keep. Do you or someone you know make a conscious effort to reserve that day for the Lord? If so, please consider sharing it with others, by e-mailing managing editor Anita McSorley at: anita@ theleaven.com.

Pro-life groups are urging people to call their representatives to encourage them to override Gov. Mark Parkinson’s veto of a late-term abortion bill.

The Genius of Women

The St. Lawrence Institute for Faith and Culture at the University of Kansas sponsored The Genius of Women, an event that honored the beauty, dignity and gifts of all women.

8-9

3

2 ARCHBISHOP

THE LEAVEN • April 23, 2010

THE LEAVEN • april 23, 2010

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS

“We’re talking about unborn children who are [slightly more than] five months. Anyone who has seen a sonogram of a 22-week-old unborn child couldn’t be against legislation like this.”

Archdiocese works to provide a safe environment for children

T

he recent reports of sexual abuse of minors by priests in Ireland and many other western European countries have been painful reminders of the clergy sexual abuse scandal that rocked the church in the United States in 2002.

for the Protection of Children and Young People.” Even though it was not required by the charter, we authorized the auditors to do spot checks of parishes to verify that the safe environment programs were being implemented effectively in parishes. I am pleased The sexual abuse of a child is a that, again this past year, the archdiodespicable evil no matter who is the cese was found to be in full compliance perpetrator. Yet, when a child is victimwith the charter. ized by someone that he or she had If anyone in the archdiocese has every right to trust (e.g., a relative, been abused by clergy, lay staff or vola stepparent, or a parent), the conunteers recently or in the past, I urge sequences of this evil are even more you to contact the profound. When the archdiocesan Victims perpetrator is not ‘The Shepherd’s Voice’ Assistance coordinaonly someone whom tor, Dennis Schemprogramming notes children should be mel, at (913) 909able to trust, but The archbishop’s radio program 2740. I promise that also someone who on KEXS 1090 AM in May includes: you will be treated represents God and · May 2 – Permanent Diaconate with utmost respect, Program the church, a child is your concerns will be · May 9 – Summer Camps at Prainot only physically taken seriously and rie Star Ranch violated and emotionThe program airs at 10 a.m. on the response of the ally scarred, but his or Sunday and is repeated at 8:30 archdiocese will be in her ability to turn to a.m. on Tuesday and 3:30 p.m. on conformity with the God in order to find Thursday.

“Charter for the Procomfort, strength, tection of Children and healing can be and Young People” as seriously impaired. well as our own archdiocesan policies.

For the victims of clergy sexual My goal and the goal of the American abuse, the church has a responsibility bishops are to make our schools and to do everything that we can to assist parishes the safest place in America for with their healing. We need to provide children and youth. them with the opportunity for counselFrequently, when addressing the ing and therapy that can aid them in priests of the archdiocese, I have reovercoming the traumatic emotional minded them of our solemn obligation and psychological consequences of to live lives of integrity. We are called sexual abuse. We need to pray for these to live in a manner consistent with our victims and provide every possible baptismal and priestly identity. The spiritual resource to help them experisexual abuse of a child is contrary to ence God’s healing love. everything we believe as Catholics.

The American secular media, in Rather than upholding the dignity of rehashing what had already been every human being, especially the weak thoroughly reported several years and the vulnerable, the sexual abuse ago, failed to acknowledge all that the of a child preys on the innocent and church in the United States has done helpless, violating a child’s dignity in in recent years to protect children. In order to satisfy a selfish and perverted addition to the zero tolerance policy desire for pleasure. I take seriously my for those in ministry who have abused responsibility to do everything possible a minor, the church has implemented to eradicate this horrendous evil from screening and safe environment prothe priesthood and from the church. grams.

It is little comfort that the revelaIn our archdiocese, priests, teachtions of the sexual abuse by minors in ers, staff members, coaches and other Europe make clear that this issue is not volunteers who work with children just a problem for the church in the and youth must participate in a Virtus United States. George Weigel, author training program. They must also read and Distinguished Senior Fellow of Virtus awareness updates and comWashington’s Ethics and Public Policy plete questionnaires verifying they Center, attempted in a recent article to have comprehended the information. provide some context to the Catholic The archdiocese is regularly audited clergy sexual abuse scandal by noting by an independent firm, staffed mainly that “the sexual and physical abuse of with former FBI agents, to verify that children is a global plague.” we are complying with the “Charter Weigel writes: “In the United States

alone, there are reportedly some 39 million victims of childhood sexual abuse. Forty to sixty percent were abused by family members, including stepfathers and live-in boyfriends of a child’s mother — thus suggesting that abused children are the principal victims of the sexual revolution, the breakdown of marriage, and the hookup culture. Hofsta University Professor Charol Shakeshaft reports that six to 10 percent of public school students have been molested in recent years — some 290,000 between 1991 and 2000. According to other recent studies, two percent of sex offenders were Catholic priests — a phenomenon that spiked between the mid-1960’s and the mid-1980’s but seems to have virtually disappeared (six credible cases of clerical sexual abuse in 2009 were reported in the U.S. bishops’ annual audit, in a church of some 65,000,000 members).”

These statistics do not in anyway excuse the sexual abuse of children

by Catholic priests, nor do they provide any comfort to their victims.

One instance of the sexual abuse of a minor by a Catholic priest is too many.

However, they do counter the impression that the sexual abuse of children is unique to or more prevalent within the Catholic Church.

There is no one who has done more to make certain that the church confronts honestly and effectively the issue of the sexual abuse of children by clergy than Pope Benedict XVI. It was under his leadership, when he was prefect for Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, that the church streamlined its procedures to remove from ministry priests who had abused a minor. The Holy Father has spoken with great candor about the shame such abuse causes for the entire church as well as his personal concern for victims. The American secular media seems to have forgotten that Pope Benedict initiated a meeting with victims of clergy sexual abuse during his visit to the United States.

There have been a series of articles in the secular media that have attempted to vilify Pope Benedict by implicating him in the failure of the church in the past to respond responsibly to allegations of sexual abuse of minors by priests. When you read the facts objectively and examine all that the Holy Father has done to address this issue, it is clear that the opposite is true.

In the archdiocese, we are blessed with extraordinary priests who give themselves heroically in the service of God’s people. The Holy Father, the bishops and our priests are all committed to do everything humanly possible to eliminate this evil from the church.

We cannot undo the mistakes of the past, but we are determined to do everything possible to remain vigilant to ensure the safety of all of our children and youth in the present and future.

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita@theleaven.com

Advertising Representative Jennifer Siebes jennifer@theleaven.com

President Most Reverend Joseph F. Naumann

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe@theleaven.com

Reporter KARA HANSEN kara@theleaven.com

Editor Reverend Mark Goldasich, stl frmark@theleaven.com

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd@theleaven.com

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)

Published weekly September through May, excepting the Friday the week after Thanksgiving, and the Friday after Christmas; biweekly June through

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Archbishop Naumann’s weekly calendar

April 24 Administer ministry of acolyte to KenrickGlennon seminarians — St. Louis

April 25 Mass and awards for Scouts — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kan. Mass and confirmation of Bishop Ward students — Cathedral of St. Peter

April 26 “The Shepherd’s Voice” recording Confirmation — Blessed Sacrament and Our Lady and St. Rose at Blessed Sacrament, Kansas City, Kan.

April 27 Confirmation — Holy Trinity, Lenexa

April 28 Meeting with the president of Newman University Meeting with Knights of the Holy Sepulcher Confirmation — Our Lady of Unity, Kansas City, Kan.

April 29 Meeting with Vitae Foundation Confirmation — St. Michael the Archangel, Leawood

May 1 Wedding — St. Louis

May 2 Schools of Faith dinner

Archbishop Keleher’s weekly calendar

April 24 Confirmation — Chicago

April 27 Confirmation — Holy Trinity, Lenexa

April 29 Confirmation — St. Michael the Archangel, Leawood

April 30 - May 1 Knights of Columbus state convention — Wichita

May 2 Prison Mass

Michael Schuttloffel, executive director of the Kansas Catholic Conference

SECOND FRONT PAGE 3

“”[The governor] ignores the fact that there is no effective enforcement of laws regulating late-term abortions in Kansas. In other words, there is nothing that prevents late-term abortions in Kansas.”

”

Ron Kelsey, archdiocesan pro-life consultant

Late-term abortion bill vetoed

Kansans urged to contact legislators to override governor’s veto

By Joe Bollig Leaven staff

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Pro-life leaders expressed dismay over Gov. Mark Parkinson’s veto of a late-term abortion bill and urged Kansans to contact legislators and ask for a veto override.

On April 15, Parkinson vetoed Senate substitute for House Bill 2115. The bill passed the House 83 to 36, and the Senate passed it 24 to 15.

The bill would have required that doctors provide a specific medical diagnosis when they perform an abortion on viable unborn children past 22 weeks of gestation. It also would have tightened requirements for referring physicians, revoked physicians’ licenses following convictions on certain misdemeanors, and allowed lawsuits by family members against doctors who violate the law.

Kansas bans late-term abortions on viable babies, but allows them with exceptions for serious medical reasons. For years pro-life leaders have pointed out that doctors performing late-term abortions in Kansas have refused to provide specific diagnoses and merely repeated the law’s language in order to fulfill reporting requirements called for in existing law.

“It was a very disappointing decision by the governor,” said Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann. “I think [this legislation] was an effort to ensure that Kansas does not again become a center for late-term abortions in the Midwest. It’s difficult to understand the governor’s rationale.”

In his veto message, Parkinson said that Kansas’ current late-term abortion law, passed in 1998, “strikes a reasonable balance on a very difficult issue.” He further said he supports the current law and believes that “an annual legislative battle over the issue is not in the public’s best interest.”

“This legislation was geared toward post-viability, late-term abortions,” said Michael Schuttloffel, executive director of the Kansas Catholic Conference. “We’re talking about unborn children who are [slightly more than] five months. Anyone who has seen a sonogram of a 22-week-old unborn child couldn’t be against legislation like this.”

The pro-life organization Kansans for Life called the governor’s veto message a “disingenuous excuse.”

“It is completely disingenuous for the governor to say that it is a good law and fail to point out that he doesn’t believe in enforcing the provisions of the law,” said Mary Kay Culp, executive director for Kansans for Life.

“It was a very disappointing decision by the governor. I think [this legislation] was an effort to ensure that Kansas does not again become a center for late-term abortions in the Midwest.

It’s difficult to understand the governor’s rationale.”

”

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann Kansas has good late-term, postviability abortions laws, said the archbishop, but they have not been enforced.

“We have the strictest law, but we’ve had the most late-term abortions because our law is not enforceable without this companion legislation,” said Archbishop Naumann.

Ron Kelsey, archdiocesan pro-life consultant, agreed that Parkinson’s veto statement ignored the problem of nonenforcement. “”[The governor] ignores the fact that there is no effective enforcement of laws regulating late-term abortions in Kansas,” he said. “In other words, there

is nothing that prevents late-term abortions in Kansas.”

The governor vetoed HB 2115 only two days after Nebraska passed two laws restricting abortion. Pro-life leaders fear these actions will give incentive to Nebraska abortionist Leroy Carhart, who worked with the late George Tiller, to establish a practice in Kansas.

For years, Kansas served as a major destination for anyone seeking a noquestions-asked late-term abortion, said Schuttloffel.

“Kansas has developed a reputation as a uniquely hospitable political and legal environment for abortionists that specialize in the kind of grisly, late-term abortions that other states will not allow,” said Schuttloffel.

“Governor Parkinson’s action . . . only reinforces that perception,” he continued, “and, taken in concert with the new Nebraska law, stands as a veritable invitation to notorious abortionist Leroy Carhart to relocate his business to our state as he has sometimes considered.”

Kelsey urged Kansans to contact their legislators and ask that an attempt be made to override the governor’s veto. To do this would require only one more vote in the House, and three in the Senate.

The Legislature is now in recess and will return on April 28 for a roughly twoweek-long wrap-up session.

Contact information To find your legislator, go to the Kansas legislative Web site at: www. kslegislature.org. Click on “Helpful Hints” at the top of the page. On the next page, look under the heading “Helpful Hints” and go down to “How do I contact . . .” Click on this to find a list of contact information.

Next, go to “My Legislator,” or “the Senate,” or “the House of Representatives.”

These links can provide e-mail, address, and telephone contact information.

Contact information can also be found at the Kansas Catholic Conference Web site at: www.kscathconf. org. Go to the left side of the page and roll your cursor over “Contact Info.”

In the menu that appears, slide over and click on “My Elected Officials.” Follow the links to “Elected Officials” or to “Kansas Legislature.”

4 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • April 23, 2010

THE LEAVEN • april 23, 2010

LOCAL NEWS 5

A determined effort to protect

Archdiocese looks to ensure a safe environment for children

By Joe Bollig Leaven staff

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — The story is painful and familiar: allegations of sexual abuse of a minor by a trusted figure, charges of inaction and denial by higherups, victims, and lawsuits.

This time, the allegations are directed against a swimming coach, a local club, and a national swimming competition organization.

The aforementioned is a reminder that the sexual abuse of minors is by no means only a church issue. There have also been recent stories about abuse occurring in schools, youth sports, and the Boy Scouts.

“Because of the focus that’s been placed upon the Catholic Church, and in particular the Catholic clergy, there has been an impression made that this is a Catholic problem, and it’s something that’s a problem for Catholic clergy,” said Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann. “In reality, it’s a societal-cultural problem.

Most abuse takes place within the family.”

Although a lot of criticism has been directed at the church, one of the best models for creating safe environments for the protection of youth may be the church.

The Catholic Church in the United States has gone to tremendous lengths to address the issue of sexual abuse of minors since the U.S. bishops wrote the Dallas “Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People” in June 2002.

If clubs, organizations and schools need a model to emulate, they could check out the church, said Father John Riley, archdiocesan chancellor and safe environment coordinator.

“I’m not aware of what policies or procedures they have in place, but if they want to look at a thorough system, all they need to do is visit our Web site and look at the tools we’re using to protect children in the church,” said Father Riley. “They would find a very thorough

and exhaustive system in the church.”

Even though sexual abuse of children is a broader societal-cultural problem, our expectations for the church should be higher, said Archbishop Naumann.

“Our expectations of the church rightly should be higher,” he said. “There should be a greater level of safety within the church than in the broader society.

So, in that sense, all the focus on the church has been helpful, and it has really challenged us to set a higher standard for ourselves as the church, which is appropriate.”

That higher standard was set with the establishment of a Safe Environment program for children and youth in the archdiocese after 2002.

“Our program in the archdiocese was initially approved by Archbishop James P. Keleher, and then Archbishop Naumann,” said Father Riley. “It’s a comprehensive program which has complied with the charter that was signed by the bishops in Dallas.”

The program includes protection, prevention, awareness, reporting, resources, victim assistance and training.

The program is designed to respond very quickly to allegations involving minors, with immediate reporting to authorities at the county or state level.

“An important part of that program is our Virtus training,” said Father Riley.

Anyone in the church who has substantial contact with minors — priests, deacons, religious, teachers, coaches, school staff, parish personnel, volunteers — is required to undergo a background check.

Next, they are required to attend Virtus child protection and awareness training, or Teaching Touching Safety.

Afterward, they are required to do continuing training through Virtus online bulletins.

Archdiocesan employees are also required to read and sign the archdiocesan Child Protection Policy, Code of Ethical Standards, and Harassment Policy.

The archdiocese has also widely distributed blue, four-by-eight-inch cards

that have reporting phone numbers and procedures and a brief summary of a plan of child protection.

“We do more than just pass out these cards,” said Father Riley. “They have to be posted visibly in various locations — every church vestibule and every school lobby. I’ve even seen them in restrooms.”

“If something should ever happen,” he continued, “or if there is suspicious activity that someone needs to report, they don’t have to wonder who they go to or where they go. It’s right there in front of them.”

And in an additional effort to inform and establish transparency, these same resources and archdiocesan policies are on the archdiocesan Web site at: www. archkck.org. Anyone can go to the site and click on “Protecting God’s Children” on the left side of the home page.

“Our child protection policy is readily accessible on our Web site for anyone who wants to see it,” said Father Riley.

“It is very extensive and very thorough.

It’s all right there.”

In an additional effort to encourage transparency and effectiveness, the archdiocese undergoes annual compliance audits of its Safe Environment program.

“The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has contracted with the Gavin Group for annual, independent audits,” said Father Riley.

“Last year, we had an audit and onsite reviews of 21 randomly selected parishes and schools across the archdiocese,” he said. “[The auditors] checked the records and interviewed the pastors and local program coordinators.”

The church has established very good programs in response to the horrible occasions of abuse in the past, but no system or program is so good that it will totally eliminate abuse.

In 2009, there were six credible allegations of clergy sexual abuse nationwide, said Archbishop Naumann. That’s a small number given that there are about 65 million Catholics in the United States.

Web sites

• Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas: www.archkck.org. Go to the menu on the left-hand side of the home page, and click on “Protecting God’s Children.”

• Virtus: www.virtus.org/virtus/ • Holy See: Go to the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith for speeches and documents, including “Guide to Understanding Basic CDF Procedures Concerning Sexual Abuse Allegations” at www.vatican.va; click on the appropriate language option and then click on “Abuse of Minors, the Church’s Response.”

Who to call

• Kansas Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services child abuse hot line: (800) 922-5330.

• Archdiocesan confidential report line: (913) 647-3051 • Father John Riley, chancellor, Safe Environment coordinator: (913) 647-3061 • Father Brian Schieber, vicar general, response coordinator: (785) 272-5590 and (913) 488-2792 • Father Gary Pennings, vicar general, moderator of the curia: (913) 647-0340 • Kathy O’Hara, superintendent of schools: (913) 647-0321 • Dennis Schemmel, victim assistance coordinator: (913) 909-2740

“That’s a small number, but it’s not zero,” he said.

The realistic challenge is not the total elimination of this evil, but doing all we can do to make the church safe for children — and, indeed, all persons, said Father Riley. The church’s good faith effort can be seen in the resources devoted to creating safe environments.

“The dollar amount the archdiocese spends on these programs is considerable, and that includes background checks, administering the program, subscribing to Virtus, setting up and conducting audits, training, updating the Web site, checking compliance, and providing printed materials,” said Father Riley. “It’s a substantial investment to ensure that children are protected.”

Leaven photo by Joe Bollig

More than 60 priests attended an evening of recollection, led by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, which included evening prayer and eucharistic adoration at St. Patrick Church, Kansas City, Kan.

Priests urged to recommit to ‘the radical venture’ of the priesthood

By Joe Bollig Leaven staff

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — He may not have been there in person, but a certain French priest was very much present in spirit at St. Patrick Parish here on April 15.

The spirit of St. John Vianney, also known as the Curé of Ars, was invoked during an evening of recollection for priests, led by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann.

More than 60 priests attended the event, which included evening prayer, eucharistic adoration, and a reflection given by Bishop Paul S. Coakley of the Diocese of Salina.

“As you know, this year our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, has authorized this special jubilee year for priests to coincide with the 150th anniversary of the death of St. John Vianney,” said Bishop Coakley.

“The Curé of Ars, who for many years has been venerated as the patron saint of parish priests,” the bishop continued, “is now offered to all priests as a special patron and model for our priestly life and ministry.”

Bishop Coakley acknowledged that these past few years have been very difficult for priests and that many have

suffered. But he also noted that the Year for Priests has been a special time of grace and renewal for the church.

“The hoped-for fruit of this year will be a joyful rediscovery among the entire people of God — among the lay faithful, in families, among youth, religious women and men — of the precious gift and indispensable ministry of the priest, without whom there can be no Eucharist, no mission, nor even the church,” said Bishop Coakley.

The bishop talked about a pilgrimage he made to the village of Ars in France, and how “the saint himself began to emerge as a man of flesh and blood from behind the caricatures that had distorted my appreciation of this holy pastor.”

He told the story of how St. John Vianney, after getting lost on his way to Ars for the first time, told a boy he met on the way, “If you show me the way to Ars, I will show you the way to heaven.”

Bishop Coakley asked the priests to recommit themselves to the radical venture that is the priesthood and continue in the ongoing battle of conversion that the pursuit of holiness requires.

After the evening of recollection ended, the bishops and priests gathered for a short social time and dinner.

Leaven photo by Joe Bollig

Bishop Paul S. Coakley of the Diocese of Salina gave a reflection at the recollection evening for priests April 15. The bishop urged priests to continue in the ongoing battle of conversion that the pursuit of holiness requires.

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6 LOCAL NEWS Vera (Minden) and Kenneth Kaiser, members of Holy Trinity Parish in Paola, will celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary on May 1 with an open house at Holy Trinity School from 2 to 4 p.m. The couple married on Anniversaries was April 26, 1945.

Their children and their spouses are: Daryl and Dolores Kaiser, Merle and Jean Kaiser, and Lester and Karen Kaiser, all of Paola. They also have nine grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Phyllis (Hageman) and Chad Lopez, members of Christ the King Parish in Topeka, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on April 25 with a special blessing at the 11 a.m. Mass at the church. A dinner will follow with family at the Brookville Hotel in Abilene.

Other activities are planned for this summer to celebrate with family and friends.

The couple was married on April 23, 1960, at Sacred Heart Cathedral in Salina. Their children are: Max, Michelle and Michael.

They also have five grandchildren.

THE LEAVEN • april 23, 2010

Celebrate Our Religious Enthusiastically

“Blisters for Sisters”

Gene and Pat (Hamilton) Steffes, members of St. Joseph Parish in Olpe, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on April 24.

The couple was married at St. Anthony Parish, Garden Plain, by Father Gerald Beck. Their children and their spouses are: Larie and John Nelson, Rockport, Texas; Bill and Lyn Steffes, Augusta; Gerald and Rena Steffes, Leawood; Matthias Steffes, Bellingham, Wash.; Gena and Dennis Stremler, Lynden, Wash.; Dale Steffes, Blue Springs, Mo.; and Charles and Amanda Steffes, Olpe. They also have 10 grandchildren. The couple has planned a family celebration in Branson, Mo., on Labor Day.

4th Annual C.O.R.E. Walk-a-Thon Saturday, May 1, 2010

Church of the Nativity, 119th & Mission Rd., Leawood Registration: 7:30 – 8:30 a.m.

Walk: 8:30 – 10:00 a.m.

Mass: 10:00 a.m.

Lunch: 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Sponsored by: The Serra Clubs of Greater Kansas City and St. Joseph

www.blistersforsisters.org Come Join in the Fun and Bring Someone with You. All Are Welcome: Young, Old, In-Between . . . Families, Friends, and Fellow Parishioners Just complete the Registration Form below and mail it along with your check to:

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Nocturnal Adoration

David and Ruth (Hagedorn) Setter, members of Holy Angels Parish in Garnett, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary with Mass on April 25 at St. Joseph Church, Shawnee, followed by a family dinner. The couple was married on April 22, 1950, at St. Joseph. Their children and their spouses are: Mary Kay Keating, Joe Setter, Rita Anderson, Ralph and Barbara Setter, and Jerry and Robyn Setter. They also have nine grandchildren.

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann presents Roberta Villescas with a medallion denoting her as a member of the Nocturnal Adoration Society at All Saints Parish in Kansas City, Kan. Both candles and medallions were distributed to members of the society at a recent ceremony. Nocturnal adoration is a devotion that calls for eucharistic adoration, carried on throughout the night by successive shifts of worshippers, on a specified night each month.

Leaven photos by Susan McSpadden

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Wagner’s Mud-Jacking Co. Specializing in Foundation Repairs Mud-jacking and Waterproofing.

Serving Lawrence, Topeka and surrounding areas.

Topeka (785) 233-3447 Lawrence (785) 749-1696 In business since 1963

Remember your recently deceased loved one by attending a Memorial Mass Saturday, May 1, 2010 9 a.m.

Holy Redeemer Chapel, Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 126th & Parallel Parkway Kansas City, KS

Make Check payable to: C.O.R.E. Memo: Blisters for Sisters Name_______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address___________________________________________________________________________________________________ City__________________________________________________________________ State________ Zip__________________ Phone______________________________________________________ e-mail____________________________________ Will you stay for Mass? Yes Will you stay for Lunch? Yes

No No

Each participant in the walk (adult or child) needs to be registered. You can make additional copies of this or you can obtain extra copies from our website.

Registration includes: T-shirt, walk and lunch with the Sisters.

Suggested Donations: $10 per person 22 or under (Students, please come even if you can’t make a donation) $25 per adult; $35 per family (2 or more) All proceeds go to the ministries of the Religious Orders that serve Greater Kansas City and St. Joseph.

CATHOLIC CEMETERIES 913-371-4040 Wyandotte County Mt. Calvary, Kansas City, Kan. St. John, Kansas City, Kan. Gate of Heaven, Kansas City, Kan. Johnson County Resurrection, Lenexa, Kan. St. Joseph, Shawnee, Kan. St. John, Lenexa, Kan. Mt. Calvary, Olathe, Kan.

MT CALVARY – KCKS Helen J. Bartkoski Verda J. Budy Rachel E. Davila Eulalia Fabela Ruth Hernandez Helen M. Jarsulic Josephine A. Jennings Edmond R. Kissinger Roberta A. Kovac Sophie M. Maderak Ivy C. Maslak Dr. Charles V. Neath Mary R. Palcher Alta Mae Papa Mary A. Service Barbara J. Shamet Frances I. Simonich Robert J. Soptic Sr. Rose L. Spehar Maureen Sutera Christine E. Veselich Hector O. Olivas-Villegas RESURRECTION Frederick E. Baldauf Kenneth E. Bauer Ella M. Beatty Dorothy D. Berkey Richard A. Beverlin Joan M. Catlin Judith A. Coffman Cynthia R. Cole Mary Ellen Daly Daniel H. Danley Dorothea A. Danford Susan G. Deal Gary L. DeGraeve Catherine R. Ditzler Paul J. Doring Jacqueline G. Edgar Bryon F. Eye Matthew Benjamin Potts Fuller John G. Gaines Jr. Robert E. Gerety Cash Hanko JoAnn Hoelting Michael E. Hosty Margaret A. Huffman Mary L. Jeffries Leonard E. Katzer Richard E. Lander

David S. Lee Daniel J. Leonard Christopher A. Makarowycz Jeanette M. Marciniak Angel Cadena Melendez Elaine A. McGinley Joanne E. Miller Mary S. Page Elmer Pelton Ralph I. Purcell Stella M. Odrowski Albert J. Quastler Sr. Martha A. Roult James V. Shea Alfred E. Service Kristina M. Sevigny Frances M. Schoneman Robert C. Simecka Frances I. Simonich Patricia J. Smith Irene W. Struby Jerry W. Sullivan Sherry A. VanDeBerghe Albert C. VanLerberg Clement C. Wagner Bernardine M. Walsh Janet J. Welch Alan J. White Robert L. Werner Merrowee S. Wiggins Omer P. Zeller

ST JOSEPH Loretta R. Connor Lawrence J. Rockers ST JOHN – LENEXA Mary L. Barthol Francis E. Cresto GATE OF HEAVEN John R. Benz Jr. George Brunski Patience Nechelle Cary William Michael Golubski Marita Catherine Henderson Adeline Novak Betty L. Osbern Mary Pihner Charles F. Reasoner Ka Ying Vang

An art sampling

The Genius of Women was celebrated many ways on April 16 at the University of Kansas. The center did an open call to the entire KU community for artwork and performance pieces that celebrate women. Some of the highlights of the night are pictured here (clockwise from far left):

Female students from Kansas University created artwork that reflected their own genius, as inspired by the letter of Pope John Paul II to women. The art exhibit opened an evening of variety performances at The Genius of Women event, sponsored by the St. Lawrence Center Institute for Faith and Culture. Below is just a sampling of some of the artwork on display.

n Ruth Kuefler and Kelly Bohling perform a violin duet. n JohnMarc Skoch performs “Daughters” by John Mayer. n Megan Connelly belts out a heartfelt rendition of “Taylor, The Latte Boy.” n Art student Leanne Tracy looks on as Matt Kremnitz, director of formation for the St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center, formulates his opinion of a collage

by Ruth Kuefler.

Photo by Spencer Walsh

The Genius of Women Now in its fourth year, The Genius of Women began when Maria Thorson (now Feeney), a graduate student at KU, brought the project to KU from Saint Louis University.

From the beginning, the St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center provided most of the volunteers and funding for the event. The event is always free to the public; donations are accepted, however.

All general donations and auction proceeds from the event’s variety show benefit Family Promise of Lawrence — an interfaith, nonprofit program that provides shelter, food, transportation, training and counseling to homeless families.

For more information on Family Promise, visit the Web site at: www. lawrencefamilypromise.org.

L

By Jill Ragar Esfeld Special to The Leaven

awrence — Variety was the spice that flavored this year’s Genius of Women event sponsored by the St. Lawrence Institute for Faith and Culture at Kansas University here.

Both women and men came together to share their talents in honor of the beauty, dignity and gifts of all women.

“The institute was founded to help the church engage the larger culture within the University of Kansas community,” said Father Steve Beseau, director of the St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center. “The Genius of Women helps proclaim the truth and beauty of the human person, especially women, through song, drama, art and poetry.”

The center did an open call to the entire KU community for artwork and performance pieces that celebrate women.

The results were as entertaining as they were varied. Anyone privileged to see the show would conclude the KU community is teeming with talent.

The free evening started off with a walk-through exhibit of work by talented KU artists. When the lights dimmed, the audience took its seats and KU Genuine Imitation, an a cappella group, performed, setting the mood for two hours of pure entertainment.

Karen Lombardi, who led the production team along with Ruth Kuefler, was the announcer for the evening. After introducing key team members, she told the audience to “enjoy the variety of gifts and talents we have on display tonight to celebrate with us.”

Byan Thelen, a member of the production team, then read the letter of the late Pope John Paul II to women, which inspired the evening’s theme.

The entertainment lineup was led off

by Sister Clara Remartini, evangeliza-

tion minister with the Apostles of the Interior Life. She shared the language and philosophy of her native Italy by reading a passage from Dante’s “Divine Comedy” in Italian, with an English translation projected on a screen behind her.

The rest of the evening showcased both men and women and included: performances on piano, violin and Irish penny whistle; ballroom dancing; standup comedy; singing; and poetry recitals.

Performers gave sometimes emotional explanations of how their contributions related to The Genius of Women.

Many performers dedicated their pieces to significant women in their lives.

During intermission, there was a silent auction featuring a work of art by KU student Leanne Tracy, a member of the St. Lawrence community, and an Italian dinner for two prepared by the Apostles of the Interior Life.

The evening concluded with a tribute to Jasmine Pasimio, a talented singer/songwriter who has been involved with the production since its inception in 2007. This year’s show was dedicated to Pasimio, who came in from Chicago to sing “Not Afraid,” a song she wrote specifically for The Genius of Women event.

Lombardi was pleased with the results and felt the efforts of the production team were rewarded with an outstanding evening.

“I thought it went really well,” she said. “I was really happy with the turnout — there were definitely faces there that I didn’t recognize.

“That is one of our goals — to get people outside of St. Lawrence involved in the show. So that was wonderful to see.”

Father Beseau was equally pleased with the evening’s success.

“Through their sharing of their artistic gifts and talents, members of the KU community are able to honor and promote the genius of women,” he said.

Photo by Spencer Walsh

n Sister Clara Remartini of the Apostles of the Interior recites a selection from “The Divine Comedy” by Dante in Italian.

“Hands” by Carrie Swim

“Heart collage” by Ruth Kuefler

Photo by Spencer Walsh

“Mirror image” by Julia Lee

Photo by Jill Ragar Esfeld

Photo by Spencer Walsh

“Angel” by Lauren Bowles

12 CLASSIFIEDS Employment 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, highenergy, high-expectation, professional, self-disciplined, independent individual desiring to serve others, yet earn a better-than-average income. We provide toprated financial products to our members and their families and will provide excellent benefits and training. For information or an interview, contact John A. Mahon, 307 Dakota, Holton KS 66436; or call (785) 364-5450.

Executive director – The Johnson and Wyandotte counties Catholic Youth Organization is seeking a faithfilled proven leader and administrator to become the executive director. Responsibilities include providing strategic and energetic leadership for all grade school and high school athletic program offerings. In addition, the new director must be skilled in financial management and strategic planning and development. Candidates must be registered and active in their parish community. For a complete job description, application, and benefit information, visit the Web site at: www.cyojwa. org. Applicants should send cover letter, resume, pastor letter of reference, and application by May 21, to: JWACYO Executive Board, c/o Human Resources, Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109 or send, via e-mail, to: kthomas@ archkck.org.

Director - The office of evangelization and catechesis in the Diocese of Des Moines has an immediate opening for a director to provide leadership, vision, and advocacy for the development and implementation of catechetical leadership formation. Responsibilities include oversight of education and formation programs for volunteers and career/professional catechetical ministers, children, youth and adults of the parishes and schools of the diocese. Strong presentation, training and administration skills and background are necessary for this role. This position requires a master’s degree (or currently pursuing) in theology, pastoral studies, religious education or a related field and extensive catechetical experience in a parish or diocesan position. This is a full-time position with benefits. Travel required. This position is based out of the Pastoral Center in Des Moines. To apply, send a cover letter and resume to: Human Resources, Diocese of Des Moines, 601 Grand Ave., Des Moines, IA 50309-2501; fax to (515) 237-5070; or send, via e-mail, to: hr@dmdiocese.org.

Head football coach - Bishop Ward High School, Kansas City, Kan., has an opening for a head varsity football coach. Candidates must be knowledgeable, passionate for the game and embrace the educational value of athletics. Virtus training mandated after hiring. Interested candidates should send resume, references, and credentials to: Greg Duggins, Bishop Ward High School, 708 N. 18th St., Kansas City, KS 66102. Initial inquiries can be made to Coach Duggins at (913) 371-1201. Application deadline is April 26.

Carpet cleaning technician - Full or part time.

Starting at $9 - $10/hr. Possible 401(k)+/yr. Retirement plan available, plus paid vacation. No experience required. JoCo area. Call (913) 438-7767.

Parish secretary - Our Lady of Guadalupe, Topeka, is seeking a qualified individual to fill the position of parish secretary. Applicants must be people-oriented; bilingual in English and Spanish; have translation experience, sufficient knowledge of practical English and Spanish grammar; and be computer-skilled. Applicants may call (785) 232-5088 or apply in person at the parish office located at 134 N.E. Lake, Topeka.

St. Joseph Early Education Center - Has positions open for teachers in the toddler room and for open positions in the fall. Candidates must be qualified to be lead teachers in the state of Kansas. Early Childhood degree or CDA preferred. Send resume, via e-mail,to: nwacker@archkckcs.org. For information, call the center at (913) 631-0004.

Part-time bowling machine mechanic - St. John’s Catholic Club, Kansas City, Kan., is looking for someone to maintain a six-lane house in the church’s men’s club. All late model 1960s Brunswick equipment.

Call Kenny at (913) 788-9758.

Services 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.

Piano lessons - Experienced teacher. Caring and positive environment. Students excel quickly. Call (913) 338-3022.

THE LEAVEN • APRIL 23, 2010 Carpet direct – We cut out the middle man and bring the showroom to you! The best place to see your flooring is in your own home or office. Save 40 - 80% on carpet and hard surfaces. Residential and commercial.

For a free estimate, call Amanda at (913) 742-4003.

Clutter Getting You Down?- Let Us Help You Get Organized! For a free consultation, contact Kevin, your professional organizer/handyman, at (913) 271-5055.

Insured/references. www.KOAT industries.com.

Experienced housecleaner - Would like to help with your basic cleaning needs. Reasonable and reliable. Osage, Coffey and Franklin County areas. Call Lori at (785) 979-6702.

Two-mom housecleaning team - Let us help you reclaim your weekend! Experienced, trustworthy, insured and bonded. Affordable rates. References available. Visit our Web site at: www.wix.com/twomoms/ pshomecleaning. Call Patty at (913) 940-9231 or Susan at (913) 642-6757.

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

Computer repair/virus and spyware removal / PC upgrades - Microsoft certified; 10 yrs. experience.

Member of Sacred Heart Parish. Call Matt at (816) 8766619 or send an e-mail to: mattcomputerfix @gmail. com.

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.

Lawn Mowing Senior and referral discounts.

Insured and bonded.

Local parishioner. Free estimates.

Call (913) 620-6063.

Lawn mowing – Johnson and Wyandotte counties.

Call (913) 744-6743.

Tree service - Pruning 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) 2445838. www.GreenSolutionsKC.com.

Counseling - Confidential and affordable individual, marriage and family counseling and outpatient substance abuse treatment. Call JB Strong, MA, LCPC, AAPS (913) 722-1118 or visit: www.outpatientalcohol drugtreatment.com.

Have you considered starting a donor-advised fund or family foundation? The Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas can help. We assist people with giving plans from trusts to gift annuities. If you are trying to stretch your philanthropy dollars further, contact the Catholic Foundation for ideas and guidance. For a confidential meeting, call (913) 647-0365 or visit the Web site at: www.cfnek.org.

Caregiving Caregiver - 40 yr. old caregiver with lots of experience. Flexible hours. Call Kara at (913) 909-6659.

Caregiver - Mature Catholic woman with over 25 years experience is available to care for your loved one in their home. I have spent the past four years exclusively caring for one client. Excellent references. Call (913) 579-8914.

Caregiving - Everyone wants and deserves the BesCare for their loved ones at an affordable price. We provide hourly, daily, weekly, or around-the-clock care including weekends and holidays. You can count on BesCare. Call (913) 638-5385.

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.

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

THE LEAVEN • APRIL 23, 2010

Home Improvement

Roofing - Best prices. Call us first for savings. Call Ralph at (913) 927-0267.

Painting - Exterior house painting at a reasonable price considering the economy. Call Josh at (913) 7097230.

The Drywall Doctor, Inc. - A unique solution to your drywall problems! We fix all types of ceiling and wall damage — from water stains and stress cracks to texture repairs and skim coating. We provide professional, timely repairs and leave the job site clean! Insured and serving the metro since 1997. Call (913) 768-6655.

College Works painting - A licensed, bonded, and insured exterior painting company. If you are considering having any painting done this summer, schedule a free estimate by calling Matt Gasper at (913) 244-1786 or send an e-mail to: mgasper1@ku.edu. Also, ask how you can receive 10% discount. Member of Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa.

Concrete work, patios, porches, and driveways for a reasonable price! - This group of guys can do it all. Call Josh at (913) 709-7230.

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.

Interior and exterior painting and wallpaper removal - 30-plus years experience. Quality work; excellent references; reasonable rates. Senior discount.

Member of St. Ann Parish, Prairie Village. Call Joe at (913) 620-5776.

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.

Tile setting done right for less! - Kitchens, baths and floors. Also laminate or hardwood flooring. Responsive and quick. Free estimates. Call Ralph at (913) 9270267.

Masonry work – Quality, new or repair work. Brick, block, and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; second generation bricklayer. Call (913) 829-4336.

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

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.

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) 5791835; phone: (913) 491-5837; e-mail: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity Church, Lenexa.

Tim the Handyman - Insured; free estimates. Carpentry: new and repair deck, doors, windows, siding, screens. Plumbing: faucet, garbage disposals, toilets.

Electrical: switches, outlets, ceiling fans, light fixtures.

Light landscape: fill dirt, trimming, planting, garden tilling and mulching. Serving Johnson County. Call Tim at (913) 859-0471.

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.

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 Kitchens, baths, basements and additions - Best prices and quality work. Timely and responsive. Call Ralph at (913) 927-0267.

Adept Home Improvements Where quality still counts!

Basement finishing, Kitchens and baths, Electrical and plumbing, Licensed and insured.

(913) 599-7998 Detail construction and remodeling - We offer a full line of home remodeling services. Don’t move — remodel! Johnson county area. Call for a free quote. (913) 709-8401.

Homeowners - New laws require all contractors working on any home built prior to 1978 to be lead-based certified. Protect your family’s health. We are a licensed, insured, lead-based-certified contractor. If you want an honest, courteous, conscientious, dependable, timely and cost-effective contractor, call In-Land Construction Services LLC at (913) 839-8500 or send an e-mail to: in-landconstruction@comcast.net. Prices will never be better for all your construction or repair needs! Mention this ad and receive a 10% discount off any project or repair over $300. If you choose, any or all of the discount can be donated to Catholic Charities on your behalf.

For Rent Living at its best on a budget! - 1 BR apt., with rent based on income; all utilities paid; no voucher needed.

Section 8 assistance. Great location, only 5-10 minutes from The Legends in Kansas City, Kan. Edwardsville Court Apartments Highrise, 531 S. 4th St., Edwardsville. Call (913) 441-6007. EHO. Handicap accessible.

Real Estate

Continued from previous page

For sale For sale – Two cemetery plots in the old section of St. Joseph Cemetery, Shawnee. $1600 each or best offer. Call (816) 331-9457 after 3:30 p.m.

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) 3932042.

For sale – One mausoleum crypt in the chapel at Mount Calvary Cemetery, Kansas City, Kan. Call Pete J. Curtis at (913) 677-2585.

Invacare power wheelchair - Pronto M9, Sure Step, electric battery. Original price $10,000. Never used. Will accept best offer. Member of Ascension Parish, Overland Park. Call (913) 390- 9641.

Childcare Licensed parents day out program - For special needs children, ages one-year to kindergarten. I am a member of Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish in Overland Park. I have many years of experience in the field, and excellent references. Call Mary Catherine at (913) 709-5884.

Lake Lotawana - W-11, Lake Shore Dr. Boat, ski, fish. Charming, remodeled 3 BR, 2 BA raised-ranch. New kitchen, all appliances, finished basement, and screenedin porch. Level lot on the water; covered boat dock with lift. Why drive to the Lake of the Ozarks? Must see! Call (816) 674-3073.

The “original” nanny on call - A quick answer to a child-care problem. I’ll care for your sick child when they can’t go to school or day care or fill in for a regular nanny who has to miss a day. Stay-at-home moms can schedule appointments or run errands. I’ll take your “tween” to their orthodontist appointment or get your kids to their sports practice — I’ve done it all. JoCo only. Call (913) 469-6211 or (816) 806-0564.

Two-story, 4 BR, family home - On a cul-de-sac within walking distance of St. Thomas Aquinas High and JCCC. Updated, open kitchen and family room, finished lower level, office/sitting room off master. Spacious fenced yard with deck and patio. Compare price, $219,000. $8,000 potential tax credit. 11535 Bradshaw.

Call Rosemary at Masters GMAC at (913) 661-9744.

Summer nanny available - I am a Catholic college student working toward a major in elementary education. Available Mon. - Fri.; daytime hours. I have reliable transportation and a clean driving record. Able to tutor children, do light housecleaning, and prepare meals as needed. JoCo area. Call Sarah at (913) 4859368.

Two-story family home - 4 BR, 4-1/2 BA with lots of space, an open floor plan and granite kitchen. Finished walk-out basement with office, full bath and storage.

Great deck and yard. 7411 Richards, Shawnee. Backs to Good Shepherd School. Priced to sell. Contact Chris at (913) 269-6096 or send an e-mail to: creedyfly@gmail. com.

Nanny - Looking for good family. Full-time days, Mon. – Fri. Overland Park area. Over 10 yrs. experience. Good references; CPR certified. Call Monica at (913) 449-9852.

Kansas Land - Buy or Sell 1 (800) 557-9151 www.KansasLandBrokers.com Escape to the country! - MLS listing #1663258. Just a 30-minute commute from Olathe is a 16-acre, 3 BR, 2 BA, getaway. 1700-sq.-ft. ranch house, 2400-sq.-ft. steel barn and one-acre pond. Two creeks, lots of timber and wildlife. West of Ottawa and only 8 miles from Pomona Lake. New furnace, air, water heater, light fixtures, paint and more. Contact Mary Ann, Reece and Nichols, at (785) 418-4402. Member of Sacred Heart Parish.

Tomahawk Creek Condominiums at Town Center Square, Leawood - Luxury living at a bargain price!

1 BR, 1 BA; cheaper than rent, plus all the amenities of condo living. $100,000; 3-1/2% down, plus potential $8,000 tax credit. Call Rosemary, Masters GMAC, at (913) 661-9744.

For sale by owner - 4-plus BR, 4 BA, decks, many closets, high ceilings, hardwood floors, steel siding, wide doorways. Just two blocks from St. Joseph, Shawnee. For information or pictures, send an e-mail to: apple piano@ gmail.com or call Mary at (913) 268- 3714.

Vacation Family fun in South Dakota - Enjoy a family or group fishing vacation in Pierre, S.D., with former KC Royals pitcher, Tom Bruno. Tom’s guide service, Major League Adventures, will provide your party with a worldclass fishing experience and memories to last a lifetime.

For information, visit the Web site at: www. majorleagueadventures.com or call (970) 214-2891.

Lake of the Ozarks rental - Osage Beach; milliondollar view; fully furnished; 2 BR, 2 BA; sleeps six. No smoking, no pets. For special rates or pictures, call Steve or Sheryl Roederer at (913) 244-2022.

Continued on the next page

Looking for a responsible, reliable babysitter who your children will enjoy spending time with this summer? I am 16 years old, have taken two babysitting classes, have experience, references and transportation. I live in Overland Park and attend Bishop Ward High School. Call Declan at (913) 897-7030.

Misc.

Bulk mulch for sale - $40 /cubic yd. delivered; $65/cubic yd. delivered and spread; three yard minimum. Will deliver within 20 miles of our address. Call Joe Keehn at (913) 631-7217.

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.

Roommate Roommate wanted - Furnished apartment near Shawnee Mission Pkwy. and Metcalf, Overland Park. $400 per month. Call (913) 579-5276.

Entertainment DJ Irishman - Colm Delahunt is available for parties, weddings, graduations, and any other function.

Playing all your favorite hits from the Village People to U2. Call (913) 548-6765 or visit the Web site at: www.djirishman.com.

24

April

Sacred Heart Church, Emporia, will host its annual bid and bite auction on April 24 at the school. The theme is a casino night, which includes dinner and silent and live auctions. For information or to purchase tickets, visit the Web site at: www.shbidbiteauction.blogspot.com.

Holy Family Parish, 513 Ohio Ave., Kansas City, Kan., will host its annual fuel dance on April 24 in Mejak Hall, featuring the Don Lipovac Orchestra. Dinner will be served at 6:15 p.m., followed by dancing from 7 - 10:30 p.m. Wear your Western attire! The cost is $20 for adults; children eat for free. For tickets, call JoAnn Lipovac at (913) 299-2792.

The Curé of Ars Parish singles group will host a spring fling dance from 7:30 - 11:30 p.m. on April 24 in the school cafeteria, 9303 Mission Rd., Leawood. A suggested donation of $15 includes beverages and hors d’oeuvres. Music will be provided by Carl the DJ. For information, call (913) 648-2919.

Holy Trinity Parish, Paola, will host its annual auction, “Bella Noche,” at 5 p.m. on April 24 at the Miami County Fairgrounds. The evening will include a Mexican dinner and live and silent auctions. Tickets cost $20; $180 for a table of 10. To RSVP, call the church office at (913) 557-2067. For information, visit the Web site at: http://hts paola.com/auction.htm.

St. Francis de Sales Parish, Lansing, in conjunction with Worldwide Marriage Encounter, will present a half-day marriage enrichment program from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. on April 24 in the parish hall. Take time for just the two of you to focus on the strengths of your marriage, to learn new tools to keep you tuned in to each other and to learn new ways to increase your passion. The cost of $15 per couple includes lunch. Child care will be available for an additional $5. Register by mailing a check, payable to St. Francis de Sales, to 900 Ida St., Lansing KS 66043. The registration deadline is April 19. For information, call Ralph or Jan Lewis at (913) 400-7173.

The Johnson County Unos will gather for 4:30 p.m. Mass on April 24 at St. Pius X Church, 5601 Woodson, Mission. Dinner will follow at 6:30 p.m. at Applebee’s, 6800 Johnson Dr., Mission.

The Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women will hold its quarterly meeting at 8:30 a.m. on April 24 in the rectory basement of Sacred Heart Church, 122 E. Warren, Gardner.

Changes to the NCCW and ACCW by-laws will be discussed. All women of the archdiocese are welcome to attend. For information, contact Susan Draftz at (913) 367-2227, send an e-mail to her at: sdraftz@prolifeamerica.com, or visit the Web site at: https://sites.google.com/site/accwkck/ home.

24-25

The music department at St. Thomas Aquinas High School, 11411 Pflumm, Overland Park, will host its annual “Parade of Stars” dinner theater at 6:30 p.m. on April 24 and at 5:30 p.m. on April 25. Performers will include soloists, small ensembles, the STA Chorale, the “Swingin’ Saints” choir, and the Concert Choir. Tickets cost $20 per person and are available for purchase via the Web site at: www.sta saints.net. Reservations are required.

25

The Daughters of Isabella, Little Flower Circle No. 503, will meet at 1 p.m. on April 25 at Rossiter Hall, 204 S.W. 8th St., Topeka.

The Ignatian Spirituality Center of Kansas City will host a presentation, entitled “Ordinary Lives, Extraordinary Prayer,” by noted author and retreat guide Sister Marie Schwan, CSJ, at 7:30 p.m. on April 25 in the community building at St. Joseph Medical Center, I-435 and State Line Rd., Kansas City, Mo. This event is free and open to the public. For information, call (816) 523-5115, ext. 212, or visit the Web site at: www. ignatiancenterkc.org.

dish. The meeting will follow the luncheon. Remember to bring ditty bag items, used cards and stamps, pennies for seminarians, and a friend.

For information, contact Judy Brose at (913) 7274528 or send an e-mail to her at: brosej2002@ yahoo.com.

A Pure Fashion Show will be held on April 25 at Indian Hills Country Club, 6847 Tomahawk Rd., Mission Hills. A silent auction begins at 1 p.m., followed by the fashion show and reception. This year’s show will feature a presentation

by Leah Darrow, former contestant on “America’s Next Top Model.” She is now a Christian model and national chastity speaker. Tickets cost $25 and are available on the Web site at: www.purefashion.com. For information, call Becky at (816) 333-0623 or send an e-mail to her at: beckydieterman@aol.com.

The William T. Fitzsimmons Assembly, fourth-degree Knights of Columbus, will host an all-you-can-eat Salisbury steak dinner from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. on April 25 in Father Davern Hall at Christ the King Parish, Kansas City, Kan. The cost is $6 for adults; children eat for free. Carryout dinners are available. Proceeds will benefit archdiocesan seminarian and memorial chalice funds. For information, call George and Helen Sims at (913) 721-1371.

26 St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, will host a golf classic at Dub’s Dread Golf Course, 12601 Hollingsworth Rd., Kansas City, Kan., on April 26.

There will be a 1 p.m. shotgun start. The cost of $150 per golfer includes greens fees, cart, lunch, dinner, beverages and a T-shirt. For information or to register, call (913) 631-5983.

27

“Living in Full Swing,” a day of enrichment for anyone interested in taking purposeful risk and making a change in their lives, will be held from 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. on April 27 at Marillac Center, located on the University of Saint Mary campus, 4200 S. 4th St., Leavenworth. The program will teach practical strategies for maintaining habits that contribute to, rather than compromise, performance and wellbeing. The registration fee of $50 includes lunch and a book. Scholarships are available based on financial need. To register by April 16, call (913) 758-6552; send an e-mail to: retreats@scls.org; or visit the Web site at: www.MarillacCenter.org.

28

“Time Management for Women: Balancing Family, Work, and Everything Else,” a program for women presented by Chiquita Miller, in partnership with K-State Extension, will be offered from 1 - 2:30 p.m. on April 28 at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www. mount osb.org/kwc.

30-5/1

The Queen’s Ladies of Queen of the Holy Rosary Church, Overland Park, will host an overnight retreat at Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kan., from April 30 - May 1.

The theme is: “Remarkable Women of the Bible.”

The cost is $65 for a shared room or $80 for a private room. For information or to register, call Patty at (913) 384-4644.

1

May

A Virtus class in Spanish will be offered at 10 a.m. on May 1 at All Saints Parish, 811 Vermont, Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call the parish office at (913) 371-1837, Gabriela Torres at (913) 371-8101 or visit the Web site at: www.virtus.org.

Padre Pio Academy will host a benefit dinner on May 1 at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 11221 Johnson Dr., Shawnee. The social hour begins at 5 p.m., with dinner following at 6 p.m.

This event is free and children are welcome. For information, call (913) 268-3155 or visit the Web site at: padrepioacademy.org.

St. Joseph Grade School, Topeka, will host a reunion and Mass at 8 a.m. on April 25 at 227 S.W. Van Buren St., Topeka. A reception will follow in the old school. For information or to RSVP, call (785) 232-2863.

Mater Dei Parish, 1114 S.W. 10th Ave., Topeka, will host a spring fling on May 1. The festivities begin at 1 p.m. with lunch, rides, games and prizes for all ages. Mass will be celebrated at 4 p.m., followed by a chicken and barbecued rib dinner and a dance until 11 p.m. All proceeds will benefit the school and parish.

The Leavenworth region of ACCW will host its quarterly meeting and luncheon at 12:30 p.m. on April 25 in the Leintz Community Room, 4701 10th Ave., Leavenworth. Bring a covered

Immaculate Conception-St. Joseph Parish, Leavenworth, will host a Cinco de Mayo celebration following the 4 p.m. Mass on May 1

CALENDAR 13

at 711 N. 5th St. An authentic Mexican dinner will be prepared by the Hispanic community of the parish. There will be a mariachi band, children’s games, raffles and a cantina. Tickets may be purchased in advance at weekend Masses or by calling the parish office at (913) 682-3953. Proceeds will benefit the parish.

The Ave Maria Village of Militia of the Immaculata will host a day of recollection for Divine Mercy on May 1 at Redemptorist Church, 3333 Broadway, Kansas City, Mo. The day will begin with a 9 a.m. Mass. Bring a side dish for the potluck lunch. For information, contact Christine Rossi at (913) 268-0208 or send an e-mail to her at: Christinerossi@rocketmail.com.

St. Paul School, 920 W. Honeysuckle, Olathe, will host a carnival from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. on May 1. Activities will include games, crafts, a moonwalk and a cakewalk. Health care representatives from Olathe Medical Center will be available for blood pressure screenings. There will also be a plant and vegetable sale beginning at 8 a.m. For information, call Debbie at (913) 907-9950.

The Serra Clubs of Greater Kansas City and St. Joseph will sponsor the annual “Blisters for Sisters” walk on May 1 at Church of the Nativity, 3800 W. 119th St., Leawood. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. in the parish hall. The walk will begin at 8:30 a.m. There will be 1.2-mile and 2.4mile routes. Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m., followed by lunch with the Sisters. All proceeds will benefit the ministries of the religious orders serving the metro area.

4

Give yourself a day to explore the richness of the Holy Spirit who lives, acts and works in our lives. Sister Sheila Carroll, OSB, and Sister Gabrielle Kocour, OSB, will present a one-day retreat, entitled “Listen to the Spirit of Truth,” from 9:30 a.m. - 3: 30 p.m. on May 4 at Sophia Center, 751 S. 8th St., Atchison. The cost is $50.

Registration deadline is April 28. For information or to register, call (913) 360-6151 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/sophia.html.

5

“What to Do When Your Child Gets Sick,” a parenting program presented by Nancy Neilan of Children’s Mercy Hospital, will be offered from 10 - 11 a.m. on May 5 at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. This program will give parents a free, easyto-read and useful tool to keep their children healthy and safe. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www. mountosb.org/kwc.

6

A continuous prayer service to celebrate National Day of Prayer will be held from 3:30 - 7:30 p.m. on May 6 at Queen of the Holy Rosary Church, 7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park.

Local pastors and ministers will lead prayers every half-hour. There will be an Old Testament tabernacle set up as a reminder that we are to pray for our nation daily, just as God commanded Moses to do.

8

Join Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann and Bishop Robert Finn for the annual LifeFront Mother’s Day weekend rosary at 9 a.m. on May 8 in front of Planned Parenthood, 4401 W. 109th St., Overland Park. No signs; this is a silent prayer witness, not a protest. Parking is limited; try to carpool. For information, call Jennifer at (816) 223-0035 or send an e-mail to her at: lifefront@gmail.com.

St. Joseph-St. Benedict Church, 229 S. 8th St., Kansas City, Kan., will host its annual Polski Day celebration on May 8. A parade starting at 18th and Central will begin at 11 a.m., followed by family festivities, Polish food, live entertainment and Mass at 4 p.m. For information, call Cathy Kolenda Smith at (913) 721-0081 or Kathy Hannis at (913) 362- 6632.

Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish, 7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park, will host its annual May Music Fest at 6 p.m. on May 8 in the church. A reception will follow in the Father Carl Zawacki Center.

10

The Catholic Charities Foundation of Northeast Kansas will host its annual golf classic on May 10 at Shawnee Golf and Country Club, 6404 Hedge Lane Terr., Shawnee. Proceeds from this tournament will support programs and services that benefit more than 85,000 people in need. Golfers will enjoy a picnic lunch, 18-hole tournament, dinner, live auction and awards. For information or to register, visit the Web site at: www.catholiccharitiesgolfclassic.org.

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

“The hoped-for fruit of this year will be a joyful rediscovery among the entire people of God — among the lay faithful, in families, among youth, religious women and men — of the precious gift and indispensable ministry of the priest, without whom there can be no Eucharist, no mission, nor even the church.”

Bishop Paul S. Coakley of the Diocese of Salina.

See story on page 5

THE LEAVEN • April 23, 2010

T

THE LEAVEN • april 23, 2010

commentary 15

Mark my words

Making sense out of bioethics

Is Jesus someone that you admire?

Catholic teaching shines light on nutrition/hydration issues

his past April 15 was a tough day for me. And it didn’t have much to do with taxes at all. (Heck, I’d sent my return in several whole days before it was due.) No, my struggle came after I’d read a commentary, written by Gloria Hutchinson, on that day’s Mass readings.

She told a story about a man named Clarence Jordan, a Southern Baptist preacher who founded an interracial Christian community in Georgia back in the 1950s. Obviously, that would not have been a very popular thing to do. In fact, it was downright dangerous.

As you might expect, someone filed a lawsuit against him. Clarence approached his brother Robert, who was an attorney, and asked if he would represent him. Robert refused, fearful that racists might put him out of business. Upon hearing his brother’s answer, Clarence asked his brother if he followed Jesus.

“Yes,” Robert replied, “I follow him up to a point.”

“Would that point by any chance be the cross?” asked Clarence.

When Robert admitted that that was probably the case, Clarence said, “I don’t believe you can call yourself a disciple then. You are merely an admirer.”

(Adapted from the April 15 “Weekday Homily Helps” from St. Anthony Messenger Press.)

Wow, that story made me squirm. It’s awfully easy to be an admirer of Jesus;

it takes the power of the Holy Spirit, though, to become a disciple, a real follower, of Christ.

Adding to my discomfort on April 15 was the fact that I was celebrating Mass for the Catholic residents at the Tonganoxie Nursing Center. Over the years, I’ve found it harder and harder to give a homily there. It’s not that I’m uncomfortable in that environment. In fact, the residents and the staff are always very welcoming and supportive.

No, I’m uneasy during the homily because I feel that the real “preaching” is done by those in attendance at that Mass. When they come into that room to pray, with their walkers or wheelchairs or canes — quietly bearing their crosses of aging and sickness — I see “living sermons.” These people are not just admirers of Jesus; they truly are his followers.

And I have a lot to learn from them.

When I examine my own journey of faith, it’s tempting to get discouraged.

Probably a lot of us feel we’re so very far from consistently being the saints, the lights of the world, that Jesus calls us to be. How many Lents will pass before we really change our lives for the better?

How many prayers will it take before we really trust the Lord? How many Masses must we attend before we really understand what God wants to teach us?

At those times when I think I’m stuck or going backwards in my spiritual life — when all I want to be is an admirer, not a follower, of Jesus — I take comfort

in the Scriptures, especially in the stories about St. Peter. We can all relate to the guy. So many times, when the going got tough, he got going . . . in the wrong direction. But he never gave up, and it’s that stubborn persistence (and God’s grace, certainly) that transformed him from admirer into disciple.

So many times we want to be comfortable, not challenged, in our life and in our faith. It’s understandable that we’re more attracted to messages of blessing than to messages of sacrifice.

It’s easier to concentrate on what we need, rather than on what others need — to pursue our personal good over the common good. Such attitudes qualify us as admirers of Jesus. As followers, though? Not so much.

And that’s why St. Peter is so important and helpful to me. Real transformation into disciples doesn’t happen overnight. Our work of conversion, begun during the season of Lent, continues in this season of Easter . . . and beyond.

We’re called each day to practice our faith — to be people of prayer and people of action.

One of the most difficult, but potentially most effective ways to do this is to put another’s needs before our own — maybe just once or twice a day, for starters. Things like listening to a colleague’s heartaches, spending time with the kids, doing a chore for a spouse, greeting a homeless person, or refraining from complaining may not do a whole lot to change the course of the world. But these small actions will go a long way toward changing our hearts and the hearts of those around us.

While it’s nice to be an admirer of Jesus, I suspect that heaven is only filled with his followers.

I

n recent years, some medical practitioners have suggested that death from dehydration may not be such an unpleasant way for patients to die. This conclusion, however, remains rather doubtful.

Thirst and appetite are very primal drives, and anyone who has ever done a voluntary fast knows well the discomfort that arises from even a single day of fasting. Thus, we ought to consistently maintain a presumption in favor of providing nutrition and hydration to patients in our care, using all reasonable and effective (or “proportionate”) means at our disposal to nourish and hydrate such patients, whether by spoon-feeding or by tube feeding.

The intense pains of dehydration and starvation have been graphically described by patients who were previously in a so-called “vegetative state” and had their feeding tubes withdrawn.

Kate Adamson, who was in a vegetative state due to a stroke and later came out of it, recounted her experience in an article she wrote: “I was half-listening to a talk radio broadcast about a 40-year-old woman in Florida, Terri Schiavo, who was going to be starved to death. This woman had been disconnected from her feeding tube. She was without food for eight days.

“Suddenly, the broadcasters had my full attention. When I was paralyzed, I, too, had a feeding tube disconnected for eight days and I knew what that felt like. Her husband had been saying that being starved was a relatively painless way to go. I nearly shouted at the radio dial, ‘That is not true. That is a lie. You ought to try it!’”

When Adamson was interviewed on “The O’Reilly Factor,” she provided further details: O’Reilly: When they took the feeding tube out, what went through your mind?

Adamson: When the feeding tube was turned off for eight days, I thought I was going insane. I was screaming out in my mind, “Don’t you know I need to eat?” I just wanted something. The fact that I had nothing, the hunger pains overrode every thought I had.

O’Reilly: So you were feeling pain when they removed your tube?

Adamson: Yes. Oh, absolutely.

Absolutely. To say that — especially when Michael [Schiavo] on national TV mentioned last week that it’s a pretty painless thing to have the feeding tube removed — it is the exact opposite. It was sheer torture, Bill.”

Elsewhere, she described the obses-

sive thirst she felt when her feeding tube was removed: “I craved anything to drink. Anything. I obsessively visualized drinking from a huge bottle of orange Gatorade.

And I hate orange Gatorade.”

Patients in a vegetative state are clearly a “voiceless” population of humans, unable to advocate for themselves. Another voiceless group includes patients facing dementia. Because individuals with dementia are apparently “out of it,” they may also be unable to communicate coherently regarding any discomfort or pain they may experience.

The assumption may be too facilely made by health care professionals that because people are demented, they no longer can truly experience suffering, pain, hunger or thirst.

When patients with dementia are brought to the hospital because they can no longer swallow, some physicians will be aggressive in persuading the family not to give an IV or put in a Gtube. They may suggest that it will only prolong the person’s death, forcing him or her to live a “low quality of life.”

In one such scenario that I am aware of, a physician indicated to the family that if an IV were given, the patient would likely perk back up and live for perhaps another year or two. But, he continued, what would be the point?

In a different case, another physician stated that the cause of death would indeed be dehydration and not the patient’s disease, but he still advocated declining an IV so that the patient would die. Decisions like these, when assisted hydration would be non-burdensome

and effective, are sometimes termed “passive euthanasia.”

When someone dies from dehydration, of course, it is not always an example of passive euthanasia. In some instances, tube feeding will be ineffective or cause significant complications like vomiting or chronic infections. In these circumstances, declining assisted nutrition or hydration may be a reasonable choice — not with an intention of ending life, but acknowledging that unduly burdensome or ineffective treatments may be legitimately refused.

This hearkens back to statements by both Pope John Paul II in 2004 and the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith in 2007 which noted that the administration of food and water (whether by natural or artificial means) to a patient in a “vegetative state” is morally obligatory except when they cannot be assimilated by the patient’s body or cannot be administered to the patient without causing significant physical discomfort. Recognizing that dehydration is a painful way to die serves as a helpful starting point to assist family members in addressing the nutrition and hydration needs of their loved ones who may find themselves in compromised states or approaching the end of life.

Father Tadeusz Pacholczyk earned his doctorate in neuroscience from Yale and did postdoctoral work at Harvard. He is a priest of the Diocese of Fall River, Mass., and serves as the director of education at The National Catholic Bioethics Center in Philadelphia.

the gospel truth Scripture Readings Easter season April 25 fourth SUNDAY OF EASTER Acts 13: 14, 43-52; Ps 100: 1-2, 3, 5; Rv 7: 9, 14b-17; Jn 10: 27-30 April 26 Monday Acts 11: 1-18; Pss 42: 2-3; 43: 3-4; Jn 10: 1-10 April 27 Tuesday Acts 11: 19-26; Ps 87: 1b-7; Jn 10: 22-30 April 28 Peter Chanel, priest, martyr; Louis Mary de Montfort, priest Acts 12:24 — 13:5a; Ps 67: 2-3, 5-6, 8; Jn 12: 44-50 April 29 Catherine of Siena, virgin, doctor of the church Acts 13: 13-25; Ps 89: 2-3, 21-22, 25, 27; Jn 13: 16-20 April 30 Pius V, pope Acts 13: 26-33; Ps 2: 6-11b; Jn 14: 1-6 May 1 Joseph the Worker Acts 13: 44-52; Ps 98: 1-4; Jn 14: 7-14

I

Gospel challenges our commitment to Christ

n reading about the Camino Santiago, the famous pilgrimage route to the shrine of St. James at Campostela in Spain, I have learned about a recommendation frequently made to pilgrims who ordinarily travel it by foot.

hear my voice: I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish. No one can take them out of my hand.”

The identity of the shepherd is very They are encouraged to carry a walk- clear: It is Jesus. But what about the sheep? ing stick. This will not only Who are they? We might asprovide them with support on sume that we are included in FOURTH SUNDAY OF the tortuous mountain paths, that category. But perhaps we EASTER but also protection from dogs. should look more closely at the Jn 10: 27-30 Why would pilgrims requirements for membership. expect to encounter hostile Note that the verse imdogs? That problem usually arises when mediately preceding our Gospel passage the pilgrim runs into a flock of sheep. reads: “But you do not believe because Several dogs invariably accompany the you are not my sheep.” At this moment shepherd guarding the sheep. In the in the Gospel, Jesus is addressing a hoseyes of those dogs, the pilgrim looks tile crowd, unreceptive to his teachings. like a dangerous threat.

From his words, we might imagine a buThe dogs are fiercely protective of the colic scene, with little lambs frolicking sheep. That is their job, as they assist around in a green pasture, in pleasant the shepherd leading the sheep. spring weather. But in actuality, Jesus is In Sunday’s Gospel reading, Jn speaking during the winter, in an urban 10:27-30, Jesus speaks as the shepherd. setting: “It was winter, and the time He is similarly protective: “My sheep came for the feast of the Dedication in

Jerusalem. Jesus was walking in the temple area, in Solomon’s Portico” (Jn 10:22, 23). Jesus has most likely taken shelter there, to obtain some protection from the cold wind.

The weather reflects the chilly reception that Jesus has received from the crowds. Even though they have heard his words, they have not listened to his voice, as sheep would with a shepherd.

They have not established a relationship with Jesus. They do not believe in him.

It is easy to focus upon the comforting words of Jesus, which assure protection for the sheep. It is more difficult to pay attention to the more challenging words of Jesus, which make demands upon us — which require us to know him and to follow him.

But that is part of the package. A cursory knowledge of Jesus, a superficial relationship with him, a halfhearted following after him which falters along the way — these will not qualify us as sheep. We should not look upon Sunday’s Gospel reading as simply a feel-good Gospel.

On the contrary, it challenges us as much as any word of Scripture.

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

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16 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • april 23, 2010

Clothes Closet looks to find its niche in Basehor Continued from page 1 over the phone and does the shopping himself.

He’s coordinated outfits for everyone from nursing home residents to children in foster care.

And he’s pretty good at it.

It’s not about me An eighth-grader at Basehor-Linwood Middle School, Avery is preparing to make his confirmation, along with more than 50 other seventh- and eighth-graders in his parish. Included in that group are his seventh-grade brothers, Landon and Carson.

As part of the preparation process, Holy Angels confirmation candidates are required to do a service project.

“What we really try to get through to them is ‘It’s not about me,’” said Marilyn Hauschild, parish director of religious education. “It’s about doing something for someone else and going out and serving others.”

Patty Dickinson, who teaches the eighth-grade confirmation preparation at Holy Angels, said when students first come into her class, their faith experience often begins and ends at the church doors.

“My goal is to expand that to continue when they leave church,” she said, “so that they understand faith is in every moment.”

The service project is an important part of that process.

Most of Avery’s classmates chose standard service projects, like working at the local food pantry or helping out at a retirement home. But Avery really wanted to do something different.

He went to his mother, Teresa Fliger, for help.

“I’m a social worker,” said Fliger. “I go into schools on a regular basis, so I get to see a lot of what takes place in the community . . . and the needs of people.”

Fliger knew people in poverty often had a hard time getting decent, affordable clothing, even at a thrift store.

“At Goodwill, shirts are $3.95,” she explained. “And people who are in poverty don’t have $3.95 to spend on a shirt.”

Fliger had a vision of establishing a clothing store where those in need could shop for free.

“I came to the boys and said, ‘Hey guys, what do you think? Would you like to use this as part of your service project?’” she recalled. “And Avery said, ‘Absolutely!’”

Accepting the challenge “I was trying to think of something

different,” said Avery. “I thought this would help out the community and help people outside of Basehor, too.”

Avery got the approval and enthusiastic support of Holy Angels’ pastor Father Al Rockers and set to work making his mom’s idea a reality.

He put a notice in the church bulletin asking for gently used clothing. He also designed flyers to be distributed around town and to local schools.

Holy Angels Parish secretary Joyce Bowlin helped Avery with the notice, created receipt forms for tax write-offs, and agreed to accept incoming donations.

Avery and his mother visited different thrift stores to get ideas about how to design his Clothes Closet.

Once Avery had a layout in mind, he went online to research the best prices on clothing racks. His parents donated the cost of five free-standing racks.

To get the most out of his space, Avery wanted more clothes racks mounted on the walls, so he asked fellow parishioner Fred Randolph for help.

“He came in and built the racks on the walls for free,” said Avery. “He didn’t charge us one dime.”

Hauschild marveled at Avery’s hard work and determination. She saw him learning valuable lessons through the process.

“He learned that you can do something of this magnitude if you plan it out,” she said. “He did a lot of planning.

His mom helped him with it, but he did the lead work on it and she was there to support him. “

More than enough The response to Avery’s request for clothing was, in his mother’s word, “overwhelming.”

“There were too many clothes at once,” said Avery. “We were up there sorting for hours and hours. We asked for gently used clothes and probably 90 percent of them were in really good shape.”

Avery went to Tickled Pink Cleaners in Kansas City, Kan., and asked for a donation of hangers.

“We got too many hangers, too,” he said. “Then we just started hanging all the clothes up — by little girls, boys, teenagers, women, men and coats.”

Carson and Landon chipped in to help their brother get his clothing store up and running. How could they resist a brother in need, when the need was so obvious?

“The whole ground was covered with clothes everywhere you could see,” said Landon. “And some of it was brand-new stuff that still had the tags on it.”

When clothing donations came pouring into The Clothes Closet, Landon Fliger (left) and his twin Carson (center) took time out of their own service projects to help their brother Avery. All three boys are making their confirmation this year.

“They helped with a lot of it,” said their mother. “They had their own service projects, but they came up and helped sort through clothes and get things on hangers.”

The boys worked tirelessly day after day — organizing the clothes, going through boxes filled with jumbles of shoes to match pairs, and hanging accessories on the walls between racks.

“A lot of work went into it because they had so many donations,” said Hauschild. “It was kind of overwhelming at first, but they just kept at it. And I think Avery did an outstanding job.”

Avery used every inch of the limited space he was given for his Clothes Closet, and stored boxes and bags of extra donations throughout the annex.

As soon as everything was organized, he made more flyers — this time inviting anyone in need to visit his new business.

Avery wrote a big WELCOME across a chalk board on the wall and made a sign for the front door that featured an angel welcoming visitors to the Clothes Closet.

Worth the effort Dickinson was one of the first to take advantage of Avery’s service project.

“I work at an insurance company and one of my customers took in a foster boy who was seven years old,” she said. “I called Avery and I said, ‘This little boy came with three sets of clothes and no shoes.’”

Avery was able to help the boy, and the foster parent was grateful.

“Then there was another situation

where three families had moved into a mobile home in Lawrence as a result of a foreclosure,” Dickinson continued.

“There were eight or nine kids living in this mobile home, and again I called [Avery] and I said, ‘OK, I’m going to start giving you sizes and sexes.’”

Avery was concerned at first that he wouldn’t be able to pick out clothes without knowing the children’s likes and dislikes.

“I said, ‘It’s winter; just get them something warm,’” said Dickinson. “And, you know, he did a good job.”

“That night we came up here, found all the sizes we needed and picked everything out,” said Avery. “I think we found everything except for one pair of shoes.”

The Clothes Closet was able to give the family three bags of clothes, and that made all of Avery’s hard work worthwhile.

“It makes me feel good that I’ve been helping the community by letting them know that, instead of buying clothing, they can just come here and get it for free” he said.

“It’s always a wonderful thing to see when a kid realizes they can make a positive difference in the world,” said Dickinson. “And I think that’s what has happened with Avery.”

“God expects me to help other people,” Avery added. “Because when I do that, I’m doing it for God.” Avery may be talented at running a clothing store and coordinating outfits, but his true passion is clear when he talks about his chosen confirmation saint.

“Saint Andrew,” he said. “He’s the patron saint of fishermen and I like to fish a lot. That’s why I’ve chosen him.”