07-30-10 Vol. 32 No. 3

www.theleaven.com | Newspaper of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas | Vol. 32, No. 3 July 30, 2010

Take me out to the ball Game

Strike!

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann throws out the first pitch at the Kansas City T-Bones game on July 24. The archbishop joined the chancery staff for a night at Community America Ballpark.

Little fan Sister Agnes Cousins, pastoral assistant for administration, plays with Samuel Benedict Meier, son of Sam and Beth Meier. Sam is the My House consultant for the archdiocese.

Photos by Elaina Cochran

Do you know this man?

Tell us your favorite story about Father Greg Hammes. But keep it short (100 words) and send it to: anita@theleaven.com.

Election nears The bishops of Kansas answer your questions about issues important to this year’s elections, and explain how to apply Catholic teaching in the voting booth.

Back in the Day

Leaven reporter Kara Hansen finds a recent visit to church with her three-yearold reminds her of the many she made with her father as a child.

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THE LEAVEN • july 30, 2010

THE LEAVEN • JULY 30, 2010

TEC a three-day retreat for a fourth-day life

By Joe Bollig Leaven staff

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Question: When is a three-day retreat not a retreat? Answer: When it’s TEC — Teens Encounter Christ.

“TEC is not a retreat,” said John Livingston, director of religious education and youth ministry at Mater Dei Parish in Topeka. “It’s a community of which you become a part.”

You’d be correct in thinking that TEC sounds a lot like Cursillo, another highly successful ministry, said Livingston, who is also archdiocesan TEC coordinator.

TEC is an offshoot of Cursillo, designed to give a similar life-changing experience to youths age 16 to 20.

“TEC goes a lot deeper than other retreats,” said Rick Cheek, archdiocesan consultant for evangelization and youth formation. “This is more personal. There are more opportunities for sharing, for deeper prayer, for [the sacrament of] reconciliation, and eucharistic adoration. Everything is centered around conversion.”

Sixteen year-old Mary Khadivi, a member of Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa, approached her first TEC with a little trepidation.

“At first, you’re kind of scared, and you don’t want to talk to others,” said Khadivi. “But everyone’s accepting and loving. We also had eucharistic adoration and confession. It gave me a sense of peace. It was really nice.”

Jenna Maas, also 16, and a member of Annunciation Parish in Frankfort, en-

Sisters to host special weekend KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Come see and serve with the Sisters of Charity Federation in New Orleans Sept. 3-6. Single Catholic women ages 18-40, who are considering God’s call to consecrated religious life, are invited to spend the weekend with Sisters of Charity, ministering to those affected by Hurricane Katrina.

Reflecting on the experience of service to the poor, participants will have opportunities for prayer and sharing with others on the discernment journey. For more information, contact Sister Sharon Smith at: ssmith@scls.org, or call (913) 758-6522.

Find us online @ www.theleaven.com

joyed meeting new people her age.

“When we got home, we all went on Facebook and added each other as friends,” said Maas. “It’s just good to stay in touch with people out there who believe in God and have a strong faith.

It was hard to come back. Not everyone [at home] is on the same page as you [with faith].”

Although TEC has been around since the early 1970s, in recent years TEC weekends have only been conducted at Prairie Star Ranch in Williamsburg and Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kan. But this year, the archdiocesan TEC ministry conducted a retreat the weekend of June 12-14 at Sts. Peter and Paul School in Seneca. A team of more than 20, called “Wheaties,” joined Father Michael Koller, pastor of Sts. Peter and Paul Parish, in holding a retreat for 15 new participants, called candidates.

This was the first TEC event held in Seneca. The purpose of holding it there was to make it more accessible to people who live far from Savior or the Prairie Star facility.

There is a lot that can be said about TEC — and a lot that can’t. There’s a reason for this, said Cheek.

“One of the TEC slogans is ‘Don’t anticipate, participate,’” he said.

That’s because part of what makes TEC work are the surprises it affords candidates at key points along the way.

During the retreat, participants are encouraged to savor and experience what they are doing in the moment — and then to keep confidential the actual de-

tails of TEC’s activities so as not to spoil the surprises for later participants.

The general focus of the weekend is the paschal mystery — that is, the suffering, death, resurrection and glorification of the Jesus Christ — and the sacraments.

“Without being too specific, [TEC] is a series of talks and exercises based on the sacraments and the paschal mystery,” said Livingston. “Our fellow Catholics share their experiences, and [team members] try to create an environment where teens can encounter Christ through the sacraments.”

In some cases, TEC gave participants a new perspective on the sacraments.

“I had a really good experience during reconciliation,” said Maas. “The priest took a lot of time to talk with me, and he gave me a lot of different ideas to keep my faith going. He really talked to me, and it was nice. It was my best experience.”

In a sense, a TEC weekend is never over. Participants and “Wheaties” hold reunions, and often participants become “Wheaties” themselves. Also, the object and purpose of TEC is not the weekend, but living out the “fourth day” — that is, living out the spirituality of TEC in everyday life.

About four or five TEC weekends are held in the archdiocese every year. The next upcoming TECs are scheduled for Aug. 7-9 and Nov. 13-15 at Prairie Star Ranch; and Jan. 15 -17, 2011, at Savior.

For more information on future TEC events contact Cheek by calling (913) 284-1725, or by e-mail at: youth2@archkck.org.

Nun to speak on her experiences in Sudan Kansas City, Mo. — Sister of Mercy Marilyn Lacey, will present “Mercy Embraces Sudan” at 7 p.m. on Aug. 19 at Visitation Church here, 5141 Main, in Tighe Hall.

Sister Marilyn will speak of her transformation through her association with the Sudanese people.

In 2008, she founded Mercy Beyond Borders which helps to alleviate poverty by educating women and girls and funding small entrepreneurial projects designed and implemented by the displaced women themselves. Her book, “This Flowing Toward Me,” will be available for purchase.

Sister Marilyn Lacey

SECOND FRONT PAGE 3

Archbishop Naumann’s weekly calendar

July 30 Mass for national Cursillo — St. Francis Xavier Church, Kansas City, Mo. July 31 Mass and installation of Father Robert Conroy as pastor of Holy Cross, Overland Park Aug. 1-8 Vacation

Election year questions and answers

V

oting is a profoundly important responsibility for each of us as Americans and as Catholics. It is not only an act of citizenship, but also

Aug. 9-14 Pilgrimage with seminarians Aug. 15 Mass and profession — Sisters of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George, Alton, Ill. Aug. 16 Mass and dinner with Knights of the Holy Sepulcher — St. Louis Aug. 17 Administrative Team meeting Finance Council meeting

an expression of conscience. Applying the principles of our Catholic faith to our choices as voters can be a challenging task, but if we

are to discharge the obligations of citizenship with integrity, we must strive to ensure that our votes reflect our deepest values.

Kansas’ four Catholic bishops have answered the following questions to help clarify the implications of candidates’ positions on issues of importance to Catholics. For more information, including a list of how state legislators voted on important bills, visit the Kansas Catholic Conference Web site at: www.kscathconf.org.

Archbishop Keleher’s weekly calendar

Aug. 1 Handicapped Mass — Chicago Aug. 8 Prison Mass Aug. 13 “Catholic Way” radio taping

Meet your seminarians KANSAS CITY, Kan. — The vocation office is hosting “Pray, Meet, Eat” on Aug. 15 at Curé of Ars Church in Leawood. The purpose of the event is to provide area Catholics with a chance to meet and talk with archdiocesan seminarians.

There will be a vespers service at 4 p.m. Father Mitchel Zimmerman, archdiocesan vocation director, will have a reflection and Benediction.

Afterwards, there will be snacks as the seminarians introduce themselves. There will also be time to visit with the seminarians at the end of the event.

Q. Are all public policy issues equally important to Catholics?

A. The church recognizes that Catholics have room to exercise pru-

Q. Why did the Catholic Church, which has long supported

Does that mean Catholics can disagree over most other political issues?

reform of our nation’s health care dential judgment in immigration system, oppose the health care policy, but it also reminds Catholic legislation passed by Congress voters that important moral princiand signed by the president this ples are at stake with respect to this spring? issue. The church summons all people to demonstrate respect for the law and recognizes the need for our Because it opens the door nation to maintain control of its borto taxpayer financing of abortion, ders. At the same time, the church fails to respect conalso teaches the virscience rights, and is tues of justice, comTo read the “Moral Prindeficient in its treatpassion, and mercy, ciples for Catholic Voters” ment of immigrants. especially as they document, go to the Web site The new law uses apply to people who at: www.kscathconf.org and federal funds to subhave come mostly click on the “Primary Elecsidize health plans from impoverished tion: August 3, 2010” tab. that cover abortions, circumstances to a departure from 30 make a better life years of federal polifor themselves and cy. Perhaps worse, the law will also their families. The church believes force some Americans to pay directly that a solution can be reached that is faithful both to our Catholic prin- for other people’s abortions even if ciples and to the rule of law, and fair they are morally opposed: Each ento those across the globe waiting to rollee in plans that decide to cover abortion will be forced to pay a sepacome to the United States legally. rate payment specifically for abortion, regardless of whether a particuDoes Kansas permit use lar person ever has an abortion. of the death penalty?

A. Yes. Unlike those previously mentioned public policies that allow

A. Yes. While no one has been executed in Kansas since 1965, there

A.

No. While most political issues have a moral dimension, there are a select number of issues currently being debated that directly involve matters of intrinsic moral evil: abortion, embryonic stem-cell research, euthanasia, assisted suicide, and same-sex marriage. The unique gravity of these issues does not diminish the importance of other concerns, but it does require that Catholics give them precedence. As Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger explained before he became Pope Benedict XVI: “Not all moral issues have the same moral weight as abortion and euthanasia. . . . There may be a legitimate diversity of opinion even among Catholics about waging war and applying the death penalty, but not however with regard to abortion and euthanasia.”

Q.

actions which are intrinsically evil and which all Catholics are always morally obliged to oppose, most other issues require Catholics to exercise their own “prudential judgment” to determine what policies they believe will be best.

In these cases, Catholics can ethically reach different conclusions, as long as their preferred approach is consistent with our beliefs as Catholics.

Q.

Regarding immigration, where does the church stand?

A.

Q.

are ten individuals on death row.

This year, the Kansas Senate came within one vote of passing legislation supported by Kansas’ Catholic bishops that would end the use of the death penalty in our state. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that the death penalty should not be used if there are other means available to protect society, though there is room for the exercise of prudential judgment in determining whether available alternatives to the death penalty meet that test.

Q.

The courts now control many of the issues important to me, including the legality of abortion, so does it even matter if I vote?

A.

Yes. As we have just seen, elected officials still have significant influence over abortion policy even if the courts have taken ultimate control of the issue out of the hands of the democratic process. Aside from the fact that many races for elective office often come down to a small number of votes, elections matter in ways many citizens do not often

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)

Editor Reverend Mark Goldasich, stl frmark@theleaven.com

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe@theleaven.com

Advertising Representative Jennifer Siebes jennifer@theleaven.com

President Most Reverend Joseph F. Naumann

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita@theleaven.com

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd@theleaven.com

Reporter Kara Hansen kara@theleaven.com

consider. For instance, when the new governor of Kansas is elected, he will appoint the heads of state agencies that have tremendous influence over how our state’s abortion laws are enforced. The governor also appoints justices to the Kansas Supreme Court.

Kansas will also elect a new U.S. senator this year, who will be charged with voting on nominations to the U.S. Supreme Court. Further down the ballot, mayors, city councils, county commissions, and school boards often decide upon local policies that have an important moral dimension. Moreover, gaining election to these posts often helps candidates position themselves for higher office.

Finally, many of our courts are themselves subject to elections this year.

Among them, four Kansas Supreme Court justices will face a “retention election” in which voters will determine whether their service on the court will continue for another term.

Q.

Can I just show up on election day in November and vote?

A.

No. First of all, there are two election days: the primary election on Aug. 3, and the general election on Nov. 2. Both are important.

Second, you have to register before you can vote. The voter registration deadline is Oct. 18 for the general election. To check your registration status, visit the Web site at: https:// myvoteinfo.voteks.org.

Stay up-to-date on Kansas legislation and sign up for Kansas Catholic Conference’s eNewsletter at: www.ks cathconf.org.

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

Postmaster : Send address changes to The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. For change of address, provide old and new address and parish. Subscriptions $18/ year.

Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.

4 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • July 30, 2010

THE LEAVEN • july 30, 2010

Home at Last

‘The pill’ leaves a legacy of pain

Military chaplain returns to the archdiocese

By Joe Bollig

By Jill Ragar Esfeld Special to The Leaven

Shawnee — After traveling the world as a chaplain for the U.S. Air Force, through 15 assignments and five deployments, Father James Ludwikowski has finally come home.

Telling his new parishioners at Good Shepherd in Shawnee, “My first name is ‘Father’ and my last name is ‘Jim,’” the retired lieutenant colonel officially began serving again in the archdiocese that so generously gave him to the military 30 years ago.

And he’s glad to be here.

“I promised the archbishop I would return,” he said. “But, even more so, I wanted to. And I’m just delighted to come home because of our wonderful archbishop and priests; we have a great presbytery.”

Good Shepherd pastoral associate Debbie Carmody has a special reason to say her parish is fortunate to have its new pastor.

One of Father Jim’s first duties was the funeral service for Carmody’s infant grandson. “[Even] not knowing us, he said so many beautiful, kind words,” she said.

In the days that followed, Father Jim often looked in on Carmody at work, asking her how she was doing and if she needed to talk.

“That tells me he’s pastoral,” she said. “And it tells me he knows how to reach out to people who are hurting.”

Transition Parish life, however, is not new to Father Jim. In the Air Force, he was in charge of not only his own parish, but all other chaplains as well.

“So, in essence, I had the Protestant parish, I had the Buddhists, I had the Jewish, I had the Wiccans — whatever were the religious needs of the area,” he said.

Being responsible for such diverse religious needs gave Father Jim a unique opportunity to experience and discuss faith issues from different perspectives.

But after retirement, he was happy to immerse himself in Catholicism.

Before taking up his duties at Good Shepherd, Archbishop Naumann gave Father Jim a three-month sabbatical in Rome for continuing education.

“It was a very positive experience because we had four hours of lectures every day,” he said.

The lectures, given by top Catholic scholars, brought participants up-todate on the most current thinking of the church.

The sabbatical also included a professionally guided tour of the major Roman basilicas and a trip to the Holy Land.

“It was an incredible experience going to the Holy Land for 11 days and renewing our sense there of the sacred, of the archeological history of the Old and New Testament, and to walk in the steps of Jesus,” he said.

Former pastor Father Francis Hund was transferred from Good Shepherd in July 2009. Monsignor Gary Applegate took over as parochial administrator until Father Jim returned from his sabbatical.

Leaven photo by Jill Ragar Esfeld

After 30 years as a military chaplain, Father James Ludwikowski has returned to the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas as pastor of Good Shepherd Parish in Shawnee.

“So this is actually our third priest,” said Steve Lemons, director of administrative services at Good Shepherd. “And actually it was good with the whole transition — different personalities, but all great men to work with.”

In February, Father Jim was honored when Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann came to Good Shepherd to formally install him as pastor.

“I think the transition has been very easy and very smooth because everyone has been so welcoming,” he said.

Welcome Good Shepherd parishioners found it easy to welcome their new pastor.

Years of military service have not given Father Jim a military demeanor. To the contrary, he is warm, friendly, cheerful and relaxed.

The only indication of military training that Good Shepherd staff has noticed is Father Jim’s organization and planning skills.

“I find that he’s very organized and I think coming from the military he has more of a business focus than the typical pastor,” said Lemons.

“Father [Jim] connects with budgets and scheduling and planning and strategic development,” he noted. “I see more of what I’d call a traditional business focus than from a typical pastor. It’s not too surprising, and it’s a good trait.”

Good Shepherd office secretary Kathi Oppold maintains the parish calendar. Father Jim’s first six months have been full of activity, and she’s glad to see he has had no trouble keeping up.

“I think he brings a lot of energy to Good Shepherd,” she said. “He has jumped in and wanted to know everything — what’s this committee, and

who’s this, and who’s in charge of this?”

“He likes to be well-informed, he wants to totally understand; and he’s very engaging with all the children and adults,” she continued. “He wants to meet people and get to know people.”

Father Jim praised former pastors of Good Shepherd for helping form a vibrant parish.

“They all want to be active and contribute,” he said. “Involvement and outreach are the two things that I see so powerful here.

“That is driven by their great joy and involvement in liturgy and their sense of desire for prayer and spirituality.”

Though his new parish has an active schedule, Father Jim said the transition from military to civilian pastor is more of a simplification than an adjustment.

Simple life “In the military, I would say my chain of command is God, then the president of the United States, then the secretary of defense, then the chief of chaplains of the Air Force, then my base commander,” he explained.

“And what I’ve done is drop all that and have God and the archbishop . . . and that’s it,” he said. “Alleluia, my life is simpler.”

Simpler, too, are his religious responsibilities.

“I can just be Catholic,” he said. “I don’t have to make this space neutral and have to recreate it for the environment of [a different] religion every time I have to do something.

“I can just go in and enjoy the Stations of the Cross. And they’re up all the time instead of being covered.”

Though he’s happy to be home, Father Jim’s memories of his military life

LOCAL NEWS 5

are rich and exciting. He hopes over time to be able to share them with his new parishioners.

“Physically, the most breathtaking place I’ve seen was Iceland,” he said.

“The ruggedness of the land is just incredible — walking under glaciers and looking through the icy shelf to see the beautiful sun.

“The black volcanic beaches, the beautiful aurora borealis, the natural beauty and ruggedness were breathtaking. I’ll remember it forever.”

At the opposite end of the spectrum, Father Jim recalls the burning airfields of Kuwait.

“I had a base right next to that,” he said. “I’ve driven through those fields and I can drive the eight rings of Kuwait and know things and places I never thought I would know.

“That starkness and destruction also is something that will stick in my mind forever.”

Father Jim is happy to have his civilian parish now, but treasures his military experience and would encourage young people called to a vocation to consider military service.

“We need chaplains in all the services,” he said. “The lifestyle is interesting, challenging and fun.

“What’s even more important, though, is there are so many Catholic military people who are just thirsting for the sacraments and, without a priest, they will not receive them.”

As for the future of Good Shepherd, Father Jim said he wants to see a whole year cycle before he thinks about any new directions.

But there is one hope he always has for his parishioners.

“I always want them to fall in love with the church more,” he said. “And the way to do that is to drink in Scripture so that your heart is saturated with it.”

Leaven staff

Natural Family Planning

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — It’s not as famous as other dates, but maybe it should be: May 11, 1960.

A revolution of sorts occurred on that day, when the G.D. Searle pharmaceutical company received approval from the Food and Drug Administration to sell Enovid — the first oral contraceptive.

It became known as “the pill.”

This past pring, a variety of pundits, advocates, social critics and media outlets commented on the 50th anniversary of the advent of the pill. While some praised the introduction of oral contraceptives as an instrument of liberation for women, others pointed to a plethora of harms caused by it to individuals, families, and societies.

Nevertheless, millions of women continue to use oral contraceptives. Although there is no longer just one kind of oral contraceptive, the phrase “the pill” has stuck.

Eight years after the introduction of the pill, Pope Paul VI issued the encyclical “Humanae Vitae,” in which he outlined the church’s teaching on birth control.

“Pope Paul predicted many negative results that would affect individuals and the social structure as well,” said Msgr.

Vince Krische, former director of the St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center, Lawrence. “[Pope Paul VI] warned that the pill would cause greater marital infidelity, divorce, family breakdown, and [the conception of] children being seen as a parent’s decision rather than as a gift from God,” he continued.

In an article that appeared in the New York Times during World Youth Day in 1993, columnist Peter Steinfels wrote that everything predicted by Pope Paul VI in “Humanae Vitae” had come true.

Doctor Robert F. Conklin, NFPMC, FCP, in an article on the Web site NFP Outreach, outlined a number of problems with oral and other contraceptives.

According to Conklin, these side effects include loss of bone mineral density, higher rates of breast cancer, blood clots, diabetes, depression and anxiety.

Beyond these, he listed the pill’s negative impact on society as a whole, contributing to a rise in sexually transmitted diseases, more out-of-wedlock births, and increasing promiscuity — with an especially detrimental affect on teens.

Birth control pills have even contaminated the nation’s water supply and have deformed fish.

Ironically, oral contraceptives didn’t even successfully address the need that gave rise to them — the desire to prevent unwanted pregnancies.

In fact, after the introduction of the pill, abortions in the United States did not decrease, but dramatically increased. There have been approximately 50 million induced abortions since 1973, according to National Right to Life. That number doesn’t include the “chemical” abortions that occur through the use of contraceptives — whether they be abortifacients or not.

“Every form of hormonal contraceptive — pill, patch, implant or ring — is capable of causing an early abortion,” said Susan Wills, assistant director for education and outreach in the pro-life office of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

“The early birth control pills contained a large dose of estrogen, and their

Q. What is natural family planning?

A.

Natural family planning (NFP) is an umbrella term for certain methods used to achieve and avoid pregnancies. Its methods are based on observation of the naturally occurring signs and symptoms of the fertile and infertile phases of a woman’s menstrual cycle.

Q. Is NFP the “rhythm method”?

A. NFP is not the rhythm method.

The rhythm (or calendar) method was based on the theory that the time of the next ovulation could be determined by calculating previous menstrual cycles. This method often proved inaccurate. NFP methods, on the other hand, are progressive.

They are based on progressive, dayto-day observations of the naturally occurring signs and symptoms of the fertile and infertile phases of the menstrual cycle.

Q. Who can use NFP? A. Any married couple. A woman

doesn’t need to have “regular” menstrual cycles to use NFP. The key to the successful use of NFP is cooperation, communication, and commitment between husband and wife.

CNS photo/ Nancy Wiechec

When first introduced, the birth control pill was heralded as a development that would lead to fewer divorces and a steep decline in the number of unwanted pregnancies and in the number of abortions. Fifty years later cultural evidence shows those expectations to be unfulfilled. primary effect was to block ovulation,” she said. “So, they actually were mainly contraceptive, but they caused such serious health risks to women that pharmaceutical companies constantly reduced the level of estrogen and added another hormone, progestin, which is more of an abortifacient rather than having a contraceptive effect. It changes the lining of the uterus, making it difficult for a new embryo to implant in the second week of life.”

In addition to the practical impact oral contraceptives have had on society, pastors and chaplains have observed a spiritual impact as well. The church’s teaching that artificial birth control is morally wrong has been affirmed repeatedly since Pope Paul VI’s 1968 encyclical “Humane Vitae.”

“I think a lot of what Pope Paul VI talked about in ‘Humanae Vitae’ was really prophetic, as far as the [negative] moral impact of separating love and life [through artificial contraception], and taking the procreative aspect of sexuality away from the act,” said Father Meinrad Miller, OSB, a chaplain at Benedictine College in Atchison.

In “Humanae Vitae,” Pope Paul VI wrote that there is an unbreakable connection between the unitive and procreative act in marriage — a connection that cannot be broken by humans.

The Catholic Church further teaches in the Catechism of the Catholic Church that every action — like artificial contraception — that renders procreation impossible is intrinsically evil (no. 2370).

But the church also recognizes that couples aren’t always in a position to welcome a new addition to the family.

That’s why it provides couples with an

alternative to artificial contraception in the form of natural family planning, or NFP. Natural family planning could go a long way toward countering the “contraceptive mentality,” said Msgr. Krische, “if only more people knew about it.”

For almost 40 years now, Msgr.

Krische has promoted natural family planning to young people preparing for marriage.

“Constantly, the comment we hear from them is, ‘No one ever told us about this before,’ or ‘Why have we never heard of this?’” he said. “They see the beauty of natural family planning and the promise it holds for building a great marriage in God’s love.”

The church’s teaching about contraception faces a skeptical culture where the contraceptive mentality has become ingrained. Nevertheless, the teaching is easily internalized once people make it part of their lives, said Father Meinrad.

“We’ve grown up in a culture that is soaked in the [contraceptive] mentality [which maintains] that this is the only way to go, and the church is living in the Middle Ages,” said Father Meinrad. “But when people discover the message of the church, I think there’s a real liberation — an ‘aha’ moment — when they sense this is something they can live with.”

This year, the U.S. bishops promoted the NFP method with Natural Family Planning Awareness Week, which ran from July 25 to 31. Not only did it coincide with the feast of Saints Joachim and Anne on July 26, but also marked the anniversary of “Humanae Vitae,” which was promulgated on July 26, 1968. The purpose of the week, according to the bishops, was to educate people about

Q. What are the benefits of NFP? A. Several. NFP is low cost and has

no harmful side effects. It is effective in achieving, spacing or limiting pregnancy. It enriches marriages, grows an appreciation for children, and fosters respect of the total person. It helps people accept moral responsibility for their sexual life.

Q. How effective is NFP? A. It depends on how carefully the

couple follows the instructions of the method as it applies to their intended outcome. When couples understand and are motivated to follow these methods, NFP is up to 99 percent successful in spacing or limiting births.

Q. Where is more information on NFP available?

A.

A good local source is Jacki Corrigan, archdiocesan family life office consultant. She can be reached by calling (913) 647-0329. A lot of good information can also be found at the U.S. bishops’ Web site at: www.usccb.org,and go to “Life Issues,” or at: www.nfpoutreach.org.

Source: U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops

NFP methods and the church’s teaching.

There are a number of resources about NFP available on the bishops’ Web site, including liturgy and prayers, couple stories, posters, where to find NFP classes, and more. To access the site, go to http://www.usccb.org. Go to the menu on the left, click “Life Issues,” and then to “Natural Family Planning.”

6 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • july 30, 2010

THE LEAVEN • july 30, 2010

s

Around the Archdiocese

Leaven photo by Elaina Cochran

Photo by Steve Johnson

Bike break

Cycling priest Father Matthew Ruhl celebrates Mass in the Guadalupe Chapel of St. Benedict’s Abbey Church in Atchison. Father Ruhl and the Cycling for Change team have completed half of their 5,000-mile journey across the United States in support of Catholic Charities USA’s Campaign to Reduce Poverty.

s Kidding around

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann chats with the participants of the high school camp at Prairie Star Ranch in Williamsburg. The archbishop met with students, celebrated Mass and stayed for dinner.

s Special delivery

St. Anthony Circle of St. Pius X Church, Mission, recently hosted its annual baby shower for Angels of Grace Family Service pregnancy center, Kansas City, Kan. Sheila Egan (right), a member of the circle, delivers the gifts to executive director Wanda Bibbs (left).

Leaven photo by Elaina Cochran

s It’s good!

s

Father Shawn Tunink, associate pastor of Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish in Topeka, sinks a putt at Sunflower Hills Golf Course in Kansas City, Kan., on July 14 at the 31st annual Serra Club priests, seminarians, deacons and diaconate candidates’ golf and dinner outing.

Loretta (Coleman) and Dick McCarthy, members of St. Ann Parish in Prairie Village, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 13 with a family dinner. The couple was married at St. Peter Church in Kansas anniversaries City, Mo. Their children and their spouses are: Laurie and Steve Petty; Rick McCarthy; Pat and Cynthia McCarthy; Molly and Stephen Maxwell; and Kerry McCarthy. They also have seven grandchildren.

Cozette (Chappell) and Joe Spurney, members of Curé of Ars Parish, Leawood, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 13. The couple was married at Visitation Church, Kansas City, Mo. Their children and their spouses are: Sheri and John Runge; Lori and Dave Arndt; and Wendi and Jeff Matthews. They also have seven grandchildren. The couple will celebrate with family and friends on Aug. 14.

Gene and Helen (Nick) McGraw, members of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on June 24. They recently celebrated with a family dinner at their home with their seven children and their spouses and 23 grandchildren. The couple was married at Holy Angels Church in Basehor.

Damian Francis and Rae Diane (Umscheid) Dekat, members of St. Stanislaus Parish, Rossville, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 8 with a brunch reception after the 9 a.m.

Mass, followed by an open house until 3 p.m. at the Dekat Parish Center. Friends and relatives are invited. The couple requests no gifts.

They were married on Aug. 17, 1960, in St. Joseph Church, Flush. The reception is hosted by their children — Greg, Wanda, Tonya, Mary, Loren, and Brad — and their spouses. The couple has 12 grandchildren, two stepgrandchildren, and three stepgreat-grandchildren.

Jane (Burrows) and Robert Stout, members of St. Philip Neri Parish, Osawatomie, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on July 30. The couple was married at Christ the King Church, Wichita. Their children and their spouses are: Shane and Debby Stout, Lane; Bruce and Toni Stout, Olathe; and David and Elizabeth Rhine, Lane. They also have six grandchildren and one great-grandson. A family celebration is planned in Branson, Mo.

The Leaven only prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th anniversary notices. Announcements are due by 5 p.m. eight days (Thursday) before the desired publication date. Announcements must be typed. They are for parishioners of Catholic parishes in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, or for those who have been resided in the archdiocese for a significant period of time Please include the following Information: • The couple’s names; their parish; the date they were married; church and city where they were married; what they are doing to celebrate; date of the celebration; names of children (if desired); number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; photo. Photos that are e-mailed need to be at least 200 dpi. Mailed photos should be on photo paper and printed at a photo lab. Photos that are printed from home printers do not reproduce well.

Send notices to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, attn: anniversaries; or send an e-mail to: Todd@ theleaven.com. If you would like your photo returned to you, please include a self-addressed stamped envelope.

Elaine (Spielman) and Edward Frehe, members of Sts. Peter and Paul Parish, Seneca, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on Aug. 8. The couple was married at Sts. Peter and Paul Church, Seneca. Their children and their spouses are: Joyce and Ron Heiman; Michael and Mindy Frehe; Judy Todd; and Dale Frehe. They also have 10 grandchildren and three greatgrandchildren.

Earl and Patricia (Wiesinger) Domann, members of St. Joseph/ Immaculate Conception Church, Leavenworth, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on June 11. The couple was married June 11, 1960, at St. Joseph Church. They celebrated with a family gathering hosted by their children, spouses, and grandchildren.

Their children and their spouses are: Bill and Joetta Terrell, Lansing; Kenny and Darlene Wilk, Lansing; and Steve and Sharon Lacy, Easton.

Anniversary policy

LOCAL NEWS 7 Benedictine Sister celebrates 50th anniversary ATCHISON — Sister Delores Dolezal celebrated her golden jubilee as a Benedictine Sister on July 11 at Mount St. Scholastica here.

Born in Omaha, Neb., her path in life became clearer when her pastor brought some of the parish youth to visit the monastery in Atchison.

“I was so impressed when I heard the Sisters singing in the chapel that I began to consider what it might be like to live with women dedicated to seeking God,” she recalled.

She also discovered that some of her other early interests were part of her life as well. She became an elementary teacher. For more than 20 years, she was a first-grade teacher at Sts. Peter and Paul School in Seneca.

She taught all grades, but especially loved first grade.

“It’s very hard,” she said, “because they have to get the basics of reading, writing, math, their faith, computer use, spelling and everything about school. At the same time, there’s an excitement to it. It’s all new and they are so uninhibited. They teach me, too.”

She sees her years in religious life in the same way.

Prioress Sister Anne Shepard noted in her remarks at the jubilee celebration: “From manual typewriters and chalk to computers and SMART boards, from Latin Mass to English, from ‘Dick and Jane’ to much more interesting and inclusive primers, life has changed. But what has not changed, except to deepen, is your love for God, prayer and community.”

Sister Delores feels that her life has been richly blessed and is still a work in progress.

“St. Benedict’s way recognizes human fragility while also providing the wisdom needed to help one live a good life,” she said. “For me, it says, ‘Delores, be faithful to the struggle.’”

With a strong combination of determination and enthusiasm, Sister Delores is a model of how a good life can be sustained through five decades of commitment.

For life

Protesters show their support for life outside an abortion clinic in Wyandotte County on July 17.

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann celebrated the monthly pro-life Mass at Sts. Cyril and Methodius Church in Kansas City, Kan., before leading a rosary procession down to the clinic.

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I

Respite for the Roamin’ Catholic Story by Kara Hansen

|

Photos by Don Wolf

cannot remember the first time my dad took my brother and me to our parish church by ourselves. The visits with just the three of us — four, counting the Blessed Sacrament — were so much a part of my childhood they rank right up there with family vacations, softball games, and summer bike rides in terms of memories.

What I do remember is the way the church looked when we would stop by on a summer evening: dimly lit through green, stained-glass windows, holy and sacred with just one candle glowing near the tabernacle, quiet and hushed with empty pews and kneelers all put away.

We never stayed all that long, but the stops at church were built into the fabric of our everyday life. Sometimes we would stop by after returning from grocery shopping. Other times it was on a return trip home from visiting my grandparents. At times, we would pop in for just a few moments; on other occasions, we were there for the better part of an hour.

As a child, it was a completely different experience going there with just my dad and brother from going to our parish for Mass, where it was crowded, brightly lit, and we were expected to stay relatively still and quiet.

In the evenings, we were free to talk and roam.

When it was just the three of us on a quiet evening, the same building felt worlds apart from the brightness and exuberance of a crowded liturgy.

While my dad knelt in prayer, my brother and I explored the sacristy to see what was kept there. I am not sure what exciting things we expected to find, but it was pretty standard fare — servers’ albs and priestly garments, a full-length mirror, storage.

We got up close and personal with the ambo, where one of us would pretend to proclaim the Gospel to the other.

We checked out what it was like to sit in all areas of the church, since our family — like most — tended to gravitate toward the same vicinity each week at Mass.

On more than one occasion, one or both of us pretended to be a priest, welcoming our non-existent pastoral flock from the presider’s chair with “The Lord be with you” and even processing in from the back of the church a time or two.

We rambled up in the choir loft, admiring the organ and trying to goad one another into summoning the courage to ring the massive church bell. We lit candles and dipped our fingers repeatedly into the holy water.

We peeked into the confessional and discovered it did not look nearly so ominous without a shadowy priest behind the screen, Wizard of Oz-style. And testing the limits of borrowing, I once took a mu-

In solitude

The quiet solitude of an empty church is one of the many fond childhood memories of Leaven reporter Kara Hansen. As her father often stopped to pray in the evenings, Kara and her brother would explore every corner of the church. The experience had a profound effect on her as a teenager and now as a mother. sic hymnal from a pew home with me so I could test out some familiar songs during my fledgling piano practice sessions.

I suppose there are some who would say the way we explored the church, as if it were a zoo, was nothing short of sacrilegious. And while in my current role as a mother, I might be tempted to redirect or discipline my kids into having more respect for the sacredness of a church space, I think my dad got it mostly right.

Y

ou see, over the years I adopted his habit of stopping at church — sporadically — by myself.

First it was on longer bicycle rides across our small town, feeling very grown up as I had someplace I could go, a destination to visit. I prayed briefly for sick grandparents, for friends, and for Ethiopia (a frequent recipient of my prayers in the ’80s, spurred on by the 1984 famine).

The driving freedom that came during my teenage years brought with it opportunities to stop by church randomly and at late hours. Making a brief visit after a sports game or on the way home from a friend’s house became a respite of sorts.

Sitting quietly in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament was the ultimate teenage antidote: In those moments when I felt no one else in the world could possibly understand what I was going through, I was with Someone who did.

It was even a thread of community for me at a time when I wasn’t sure if the Catholic Church was a community

I wanted to be a part of. I left notes for the parish secretary asking for my best friend, who had recently been diagnosed with cancer as a teen, to be included in the bulletin’s prayer list.

During summers home from college, I grappled with discernment in the first couple of pews at my childhood church more than once. Leaving in the darkness, I always felt refreshed as I inhaled the first breath of night air, peering up into the sky and stars above.

What I took away from those childhood church visits was the feeling that church was a place of refuge, of peace, home. It was sacred, to be sure, but not to be held with kid gloves only for special occasions, like a set of fine china brought out only a couple times a year.

Instead, it was more like the broken-in house of an old friend — a place to go for support, comfort, and direction.

Unsure if this was a brilliant parenting scheme on my dad’s part that I had participated in without knowing it, I recently asked him if he remembered taking my brother and I with him to church when he prayed.

“Not really,” he said. He knew he had stopped by church to pray often but did not necessarily remember bringing us with him much.

A

nd that was my answer. Dad let us be a part of his prayer life on our own terms, and it unfolded in the simplest of everyday activities, without any bluster or fanfare.

Like most things relating to faith, he led by his actions more than words, and gave us opportunities to meet God, rather than forcing us to do so.

I thought of him the other night when I stopped by our parish’s adoration chapel. My three-year-old was with me, so while I knelt and said a brief prayer, she looked around and absorbed what she saw in the chapel.

I looked up a few seconds later to see she had removed a rosary from one of the kneelers and was now wearing it as a necklace, smiling proudly.

I smiled, too.

10 NATION

THE LEAVEN • July 30, 2010

Half of kids poor at birth spend formative years in poverty WASHINGTON (CNS) — A study released by the Urban Institute shows that 49 percent of children who are poor at birth go on to spend at least half of their childhoods living in poverty, but Lisa Sheehan of St. Ann’s Infant and Maternity Home in Hyattsville, Md., said that helping young, single mothers can help turn that around.

The institute in Washington is a nonpartisan economic and social policy research organization. The study, “Childhood Poverty Persistence: Facts and Consequences,” shows that targeting poverty at birth could help the 37 percent of youths who live in poverty at some point during their childhoods. Demographically, 31 percent of white children and 69 percent of black children who are poor at birth go on to spend at least half of their childhoods living in poverty, according to the study. It shows that all children born into poverty are more likely to remain poor as adults because of their unstable financial background. Sheehan is director of development at St. Ann’s in suburban Washington, which provides residential care and services to abused and neglected children and to single pregnant and parenting adolescents in crisis, as well as quality day care to the children of working families. It also administers a program called Faith House, which Sheehan said provides “quality child care and housing, two big hurdles for young single moms who are working and going to school.”

Radio host prepares MP3 players for troops, wounded soldiers WASHINGTON (CNS) — It has been a year in the making, but the first 1,000 MP3 players prepared by the host of a Catholic radio program are making their way to Catholic troops and wounded soldiers. They’re not just any MP3 players, though. They’re “filled with Catholic content,” according to Cheri Lomonte, host of the Gabriel Award-winning radio program “Mary’s Touch” and the force behind a project she calls “Frontline Faith.” The intent of the distribution program is to provide Catholic inspirational messages and recordings to tide Catholic soldiers over between the infrequent visits of a Catholic chaplain to battle zones in Iraq and Afghanistan. The MP3 for use by troops are “packed with Catholic things,” Lomonte said — seven hours’ worth. “They could listen to a Mass, they could listen to a rosary.” The project’s Web site is www.frontlinefaith project.com.

Where SOLD means more Ed Pitko (913) 334-9000 (mobile) (913) 299-1600, ext. 112 (office) Over 26 years of reliable service

THE LEAVEN • July 30, 2010

Revised norms send clear signal on sex abuse

Common ground seen on solutions to immigration LOS ANGELES (CNS) — The heated national debate over Arizona’s tough new immigration law has drawn muchneeded attention to calls for immigration reform, but it also has obscured the fact that there is “actual common ground” among Americans on “key elements” of reform, according to Cardinal Roger M. Mahony of Los Angeles.

The cardinal listed five elements that he said when presented to Americans elicited more agreement than he expected.

He said those elements are: the responsibilities of countries of origins of immigrants; a need for more secure borders; a balance between the need for workers and the supply of workers; agriculture jobs; and the Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors Act, or the DREAM Act. The proposed measure would allow children of undocumented immigrants brought to the United States at an early age to become legal residents and qualify for in-state tuition.

Cardinal Mahony said the one area that “creates sharp divisions among us” is a discussion of the path those currently in this country illegally can take toward legal residency, he said.

Some Americans see any method to help people legalize their status as amnesty, commonly defined, he noted, as “a general pardon,” or “a forgetting or overlooking of any past offense.”

But immigrant advocates are not proposing a “general pardon, forgetting or overlooking of the past without penalty or stringent obligations,” he explained.

“Immigrants here without permission would be required to pay for their transgression and ‘get right’ with the law, then earn their way toward eventual citizenship. This is not amnesty.”

To address the status of the 12 million undocumented immigrants currently in the country, he noted, any reform measure must require them to register with the federal government, to pay fines and all taxes, and to learn conversational English.

“There is no excuse,” he said, “for inaction on what is perhaps the country’s most pressing social problem.”

By John Thavis

Catholic News Service

CNS photo/Christ Chavez, Rio Grande Catholic

CNS photo/Goran Tomasevic, Reuters

PEOPLE JOIN PROCESSION IN TEXAS — Several hundred people join a July 14 procession to La Placita de Leones at the foot of the Santa Fe International Bridge in El Paso, Texas, where an open-air Mass was celebrated to pray for an end to border violence.

WORSHIPPERS PRAY OUTSIDE A CHURCH ON MOUNT SINAI — Worshippers pray outside a church on the summit of Mount Sinai during sunrise in the Sinai Peninsula July 23. According to the Bible this is where Moses received the Ten Commandments from God.

Two U.S. bishops say Mass to pray for end to border violence

By Andy Sparke

Catholic News Service EL PASO, Texas (CNS) — Bishop Armando X. Ochoa of El Paso and Bishop Ricardo Ramirez of Las Cruces, N.M., celebrated Mass July 14 near the foot of a bridge that crosses the Rio Grande to pray for an end to violence on the U.S.-Mexico border.

The Mass followed a procession by more than 300 El Pasoans — led by a group of American Indian dancers — from Sacred Heart Church to Placita de Leones, which is near a highly trafficked bridge that crosses into Ciudad Juarez, Mexico.

The procession and Mass were organized by Annunciation House — an El Paso refuge for migrants from Mexico and Latin America — after 14-year-old Sergio Hernandez Huereca was killed in a confrontation between human traffickers and the U.S. Border Patrol near the railroad bridge linking El Paso and Ciudad Juarez.

U.S. officials said Hernandez Huereca was known to be a member of a human trafficking organization, and that a Border Patrol agent had fired on members of the trafficking group when they began pelting him with stones while he was in the process of apprehending undocumented foreign nationals.

Ruben Garcia, director of Annunciation House, said: “The fruit of [U.S.]

enforcement-only [immigration] policies is violence, the kind of violence that was seen on June 7th with the shooting death of a teenager on the banks of the Rio Grande, and on May 25th with the death of a 35-year-old man in San Ysidro (Calif.), and in July of 2009 with the shooting death of a Border Patrol agent in Campo, California.”

Bishop Ochoa said the Mass was offered as a petition to resolve current immigration problems without recourse to drawing and firing weapons.

The Archdiocese of Mexico City recently issued a statement condemning the shooting of Hernandez Huereca.

Violence on the Mexican side of the border has escalated in the past four years, with 25,000 murders of Mexicans attributed to the battles between Mexican drug cartels spurred by President Felipe Calderon’s vow to fight the cartels.

The El Paso and Ciudad Juarez communities are divided only by the narrow Rio Grande and the population of both cities are linked by commercial, cultural and family ties. Each day thousands of people move across four bridges that link the two cities.

El Pasoans have been praying for an end to the violence with prayer vigils sponsored by individual parishes and rosaries held by Catholic youth groups at border settings.

Concrete Work

Mother Teresa’s centenary to be marked by various events CALCUTTA, India (CNS) — An international film festival and a photo exhibition are among various events planned to mark Blessed Mother Teresa’s birth centenary in August.

The Asian church news agency UCA News reported the West Bengal state government and civic groups have joined the church to celebrate the late nun’s 100th birthday with a program that includes prayer meetings, an art show and a drawing competition.

The program will start Aug. 26, her birth anniversary, and conclude with nine days of prayer commencing Sept.

5, her death anniversary.

The three-day Mother Teresa International Film Festival will be launched Aug. 26 at the state film center, Nandan.

Films on the nun from 18 countries will be screened, said festival director Sunil Lucas.

UNESCO is co-hosting the festival, which is organized by the Calcutta Archdiocese and Signis, the World Catholic Association for Communication, Lucas said.

Two painters, Ritu Singh and Sunita Kumar, also plan to exhibit their special series on Mother Teresa as well as rare photographs of the nun.

The Missionaries of Charity, the congregation founded by Mother Teresa, will celebrate the centenary with yearlong prayers and charity programs, said

Sister Lynn Mascarenhas, a member of the order.

The congregation’s houses across the world are preparing the poor, children, the sick and elderly for the centenary with prayers and film shows, she said.

Indian President Pratibha Devisingh Patil will officially introduce a Mother Teresa commemorative coin during a celebration of the centenary in New Delhi Aug. 28, said Father Babu Joseph, spokesman for the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India.

A government official gave no details about the design of the coin, which was approved by Sister Mary Prema, head of the Missionaries of Charity.

Father Joseph said the coin “shows the kind of recognition and affection Indians have for Mother Teresa, who became an icon of charity in the country.”

Relics of Blessed Mother Teresa — her crucifix, rosary and sandals and a reliquary containing her blood — are currently touring the United States and Canada as part of worldwide events anticipating the 100th anniversary of her birth. Among the cities that have had or will have the relics on display are Toronto; New York City; Bridgeport, Conn.; Boston; Baltimore; Peoria, Ill.; Gary, Ind.; Chicago; St. Paul, Minn. Not all the stops have been announced.

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — A leading Vatican official said Pope Benedict XVI’s approval of revised norms on clerical sex abuse sent a clear signal that the church is serious about protecting children and punishing abusive priests.

At the same time, the official said, the Vatican norms alone cannot resolve the problem of sexual abuse, which will require a continued and coordinated effort at every level of the church.

Msgr. Charles Scicluna, the promoter of justice at the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, made the comments July 15 at a briefing for reporters on the revised norms, which simplified and streamlined many of the church’s procedures in dealing with priests accused of sexual abuse of minors.

“I think it gives a signal that we are very, very serious about our commitment to promote safe environments and to offer an adequate response to abuse,” he said.

Msgr. Scicluna was asked why the revised norms, like the previous edition, impose “pontifical secret” on the church’s judicial handling of priestly sex abuse.

He said a better term was “confidentiality,” and that it was designed above all to protect the dignity of everyone involved, including the victim, the accused, their families and their communities.

He also noted that in some cases — for example, a priest’s dismissal from the priesthood — bishops are authorized to divulge the decision and the reasons behind it if this is seen as necessary for the common good of the church.

“So the value of confidentiality is important, but it is not absolute,” he noted.

Likewise, Msgr. Scicluna said, the church’s insistence on confidentiality has limits in the relationship with civil authorities. Bishops are required to comply with civil law that requires reporting of abuse accusations, he said.

World 11

Zambian bishops: Draft won’t ‘stand the test of time’ LUSAKA, Zambia (CNS) — Zambia’s bishops have rejected a draft constitution, saying there is no way the document produced by the National Constitution Commission “will have the legitimacy required for such an important document to stand the test of time.” The bishops said the commission had violated “most of the people’s desires as accurately captured in” an earlier draft. “In its present manner, the draft constitution is not acceptable as a basis for coming up with a constitution that is people-driven.” The bishops said in July 21 statement: “We hoped against hope that the NCC would come up with a progressive document. We have said time and again that content for the constitution has never been a real problem. The people of Zambia are very clear and consistent with what they want, but they have always been let down by those in power who are supposed to be the midwives of a good constitution.” Since its independence in 1964, Zambia has made several attempts to enact a people-driven national constitution through the appointments of constitutional review commissions. Observers, including church officials, say these attempts have been thwarted by strong politicians whose interest is to entrench their hold on power.

The politicians have usually sponsored candidates to the review commission, and those candidates eventually end up swaying the people’s recommendations and wishes. As a result, each new government comes up with its own commission, which ends in failure after it has spent billions of dollars on the process.

Vatican euro coins are put into public circulation VATICAN CITY (CNS) — For the first time since it adopted the euro currency in 2002, the Vatican has begun to put some of its coins into public circulation. However, the likelihood that Rome visitors will find coins depicting Pope Benedict XVI is still slim since storekeepers only within the walls of Vatican City are distributing them. Two million 50-cent coins minted in 2010 were earmarked for public circulation after representatives of the Vatican and the European Union signed an agreement in Brussels in December. The accord allowed the Vatican to more than double the monetary value of the coins it issues, but also required the Vatican to put a large chunk of its coins into circulation. For years, the vast majority of Vatican euro coins were sold as sets to collectors for 30 euros ($38) each. Only the 50-cent coin will be put into public circulation, said media reports.

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12 CLASSIFIEDS Employment Director - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking a faith-filled leader to guide its hospitality ministry as the director of Savior Pastoral Center, a multiuse facility with a conference center, overnight accommodations, dining/catering services, chapel, gymnasium and pool. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated management experience working with a multifaceted budget, diversely skilled staff and a variety of internal and external clients. Events range from small group meetings to multi-day conferences. Requires strong human relation skills and sound business sense. A bachelor’s degree in business, hospitality management or a related field is required; prior work in hotel or conference center management strongly preferred. Candidates must be a registered and active member of his/her parish and have a general understanding of how the church forms individuals in the faith and for ministry. A complete job description, application and benefits information can be accessed via the Web site at: www. archkck.org (click on the human resources tab). Mail cover letter, resume, and application by Aug. 13 to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, Savior Search, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, or send, via e-mail, to: kthomas@archkck.org.

Experienced tile setter needed - For growing company. Must have transportation and tools. Two references required. Contact Pat at Pat’s Versa-Tile (913) 205-8697.

Dodge City Cathedral Parish - Is accepting applications for a full-time youth minister for a large, multicultural parish. Applicant must be in full communion with the church and be able to work flexible hours. Fluency in Spanish is preferred. Salary negotiable depending upon experience and training. Submit resume to: Mrs. Maria Musick, Search Committee, P.O. Box 1912, Dodge City, KS 67801. You can also visit the Web site at: www.dodgecitycathedral.com.

Music director - For St. John LaLande Church, Blue Springs, Mo. Essential responsibilities include: establish music liturgy for weekend, holy day, special liturgy, and funeral and wedding Masses; direct and accompany on piano/organ cantors and choirs (vocal, bell, etc.) during Masses; coordinate musician rehearsals; cultivate music ministry within the parish. Requirements: strong organ and piano skills; excellent leadership, interpersonal and communication skills; strong knowledge of Catholic liturgy and liturgical music. Preference given to candidates with experience leading volunteer musicians. Salary commensurate with experience. Submit cover letter, resume, and references, via e-mail, to: mverstraete@ stjohnlalande.com.

Music director - St. Peter Parish, Kansas City, Mo., is seeking a director of music ministry. This pastoral musician will continue to develop our vibrant music tradition and foster the assembly’s full and active participation in the liturgy. A thorough knowledge and understanding of Catholic liturgy is essential. Responsibilities include planning, preparing, and leading the music for three weekend Masses and special liturgical celebrations. Responsible for recruiting, training and scheduling cantors, choir members and musicians. Applicant must be able to work effectively with volunteers and have strong pastoral, organizational, and interpersonal skills. For information or to submit a resume, contact Mike Thomas, director of liturgy, at: mthomas@stpeterskc.org; at 815 E. Meyer Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64131; or at (816) 363-2320.

Financial representative - Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding financial representatives in the Kansas City and Emporia areas. This position is ideal for a determined, high-energy, high-expectation, professional, selfdisciplined, independent individual desiring to serve others, yet earn a better-than-average income. We provide top-rated financial products to our members and their families and will provide excellent benefits and training. For information or an interview, contact John A. Mahon, 307 Dakota, Holton KS 66436; or call (785) 364-5450.

Part-time position - Beginning Aug. 24. Mon. - Fri. from approximately 3 - 7 p.m., assisting two female mentally retarded and developmentally disabled clients in their Overland Park home. Great for a college student or someone seeking to supplement their income! Female applicants only. Call Amy at (913) 221-9158.

Part time - Historical event site is seeking a person to help with laundry and linen setup on Mondays and as needed. Call (816) 531-3111.

THE LEAVEN • JULY 30, 2010

THE LEAVEN • JULY 30, 2010

Executive director of the diocesan education fund - The Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph is currently accepting applications for a new position of executive director of the diocesan Catholic school education fund. This position will be responsible for formulating strategy and objectives; developing sound plans for fundraising activities; overseeing the implementation of a development plan; and evaluating performance toward goals. The executive director will build a new program utilizing major gifts, annual fund development, grant making, special events, capital funding initiatives and endowments.

Qualifications for this position include a bachelor’s degree in development/fundraising, nonprofit administration, business, marketing/public relations, or related fields or equivalent experience. Minimum five or more years experience in fund development.

For a complete job description, visit our Web site at: www.diocese-kcsj.org. Submit resume, via e-mail, to: moss@diocesekcsj.org.

Counseling the professional - Burned out? Exhausted? Want to go where it’s safe and away from your clients? Time to nurture yourself! Call Jane M. Vogel, MA, LCPC, RAODAC, BSRB, AAPS Ks., LPC Mo., at (913) 248-4412.

Child care providers - St. Ann Young Child Center, Prairie Village, is interviewing for child care providers during school hours and from 3 - 6 p.m. for its after- school program. Starting pay is $10 per hour, with benefits. Call Tati at (913) 541-0687.

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) 244-5838. www.GreenSolutionsKC.com.

Director of institutional advancement - For Thomas More Prep-Marian High School and Holy Family Elementary. Both schools are located in Hays, Kan., are affiliated with the Salina diocese, and have a large alumni base across the United States. Responsibilities include: managing the annual, capital and endowment campaigns; special projects; planned giving; special events; and assisting in the establishment of active alumni chapters and development events.

Candidates should have development or sales experience; excellent interpersonal and communication skills; and demonstrated leadership. Experience in development at the high school, university, nonprofit, or corporate level is preferred. Salary contingent on experience; benefit package offered. Applicants may submit a letter of interest, resume, and references to: Director of Institutional Advancement Search Committee, TMP-Marian High School/Holy Family Elementary, P.O. Box 1754, Hays, KS 67601. Letter of intent applications may be faxed to (785) 628-2022.

Preschool teacher- St. Patrick Early Education Center, Kansas City, Kan., is accepting applications for a part-time preschool teacher, beginning Aug. 18.

Mon - Fri; 7:30 - 11:30 a.m. Experience and education in early childhood or related field are preferred. Send a resume, via e-mail, to: stpatrickeec@archkckcs.org.

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 Clean House - House Cleaning - Call either Kathy at (913) 649-1276 or Jane at (913) 341-5019. We will e-mail or direct mail our flyer to you. Reasonable rates, references and quality work.

Web site design Businesses and individuals Parom Web Design LLC www.paromwebdesign.com (913) 645-8454 Computer repair/virus and spyware removal/PC upgrades - Microsoft certified; 10 yrs. experience. Member of Sacred Heart Parish. Call Matt at (816) 876-6619 or send an e-mail to: mattcomputerfix@gmail.com.

Need a ride? Where to? I am available to take you to your doctor’s appointment, hairdresser or shopping. Maybe you aren’t driving anymore or just prefer a chauffeur; I’ll get you there. I can also run errands for you or do the grocery shopping. Just give me a call to discuss your needs. Johnson County only.

Call (913) 469-6211 or (816) 806-0564.

Tutoring - For K - 12 in various subjects available for fall ’10. For information, call (913) 206-2151 or send an e-mail to: Klmamuric@yahoo.com.

Counseling - Topeka Marriage and family, child, teen, personal Shunga Creek Mental Health Call Ken Zweig, LSCSW at (785) 969-5308.

Faith-based counseling to cope with life concerns - Kansas City area. Call Mary Vorsten, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, at (913) 909-2002.

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.outpatientalcoholdrugtreatment.com.

Increase your income – Interest rates are low, but a gift annuity with the Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas often pays effective rates of over 10 percent for the rest of your life. Your gift benefits your parish or another Catholic organization of your choice in the archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.

You may even get a tax deduction. For information, call (913) 647-0365.

Lawn Mowing Senior and referral discounts.

Insured and bonded.

Local parishioner. Free estimates.

Call (913) 620-6063.

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.

Machine quilting - by Jenell Noeth, Basehor.

Also, quilts made to order. Call (913) 724-1837.

Caregiving Caregiver - Available to take care of your loved one while you take a break. Experienced with the elderly, especially dementia care. Available evenings and weekends. Call Lynne at (913) 669-0363.

Caregiver - Everyone 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) 4221591.

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.

Home Improvement Get organized! Let me help you tackle the attic, basement, garage or any other area or your home or business that needs work! Items sorted and boxed, areas clean when finished. Great references & insured.

20 years experience! For pictures, visit my Web site at: WWW.SWALMS.COM. Tillar Swalm (913) 375-9115.

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.

Masonry work – Quality, new or repair work.

Brick, block, and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; second generation bricklayer. Call (913) 829-4336.

Tile and painting - Complete tile and paint repairs and renovation. Ceramic, porcelain, certified limestone tile master. Complete interior paint services and drywall texture finishes. Over 20 years experience. Fully licensed. Service 7 days a week.

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

Electrician - Free estimates; reasonable rates.

JoCo and southern KC metro area. Call Pat at (913) 9639896.

STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Call for free estimates. Cell: (913) 579-1835; phone: (913) 491-5837; e-mail: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity Church, Lenexa.

Father-and-son team - These guys can do it all — exterior painting, decks, fences, retaining walls, metal buildings, patios, porches, and driveways, We can do your job for a reasonable price! Call Josh at (913) 709-7230.

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

The 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!

Lead-certified and insured! Serving the metro since 1997. Call (913) 768-6655.

Painting, exterior and interior, drywall projects, powerwashing, rotted window sills repaired - Quality products. 20 years experience. References.

Call (913) 341-7584.

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.

(continued from page 12) Vacation condo for rent - Marco Island, Fla. 2 BR, 2 BA; perfect weather. View pictures at: www.marco condoforrent.com or call (913) 544-1288.

Real Estate Maintenance provided townhomes!

New construction and resale properties.

Peaceful, laid-back living in Basehor. $135,400 - $169,800. Low HOA dues.

Call Scott at ERA Manning at (913) 2694269.

Take a virtual tour at: www.postlets.com/res/3957640.

Historic home in Ottawa built by Washburn - 3 BR, two-story home. $149,950 See at: www.betty birzer.com. Reece & Nichols Town & Country Realty Inc. (785) 418-5701 or (785) 229-8890 for appointment.

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. Call Rosemary at Real Living, (913) 661-9744.

Super ranch home - 316 W. 116th St., KCMO. Wonderful Verona Hills subdivision. Everything on one level. 3 BR, 2 BA, formal living and dining rooms, eat-in kitchen with new granite countertops, slate tile backsplash, cooktop, sink and faucet. Family room with beautiful wood floors. New carpet. Full, dry basement.

Nice-sized lot. Call Cathy Schmidt, KW Realty, at (913) 322-5101 or send an e-mail to: cathyschmidt@kw.com.

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.

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.

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

July 7/30-8/1

Theatre at Vis, a ministry of Visitation Parish, 5134 Baltimore, Kansas City, Mo., will present “Annie” on July 30 and 31 at 7 p.m. and on Aug. 1 at 1 p.m. The performers are 50 children from parishes on both sides of the state line. The cost is $8 for adults; $6 for children 12 and under. For advance tickets, call (816) 444-7008.

For Rent Lawrence home for rent - 3 BR, 2 BA, ranchstyle home with a two-car garage, fenced backyard, furnished kitchen and laundry facilities. No smokers and no pets! 1603 Irving Court. $1000/month plus utilities. Call (913) 829-5393.

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

Vacation Lake of the Ozarks - Time share rental at Tree Top Village, adjacent to The Lodge of the Four Seasons. One week, beginning Sept. 10; a great time to be at the lake. Fully furnished, 3 BR, 2-1/2 BA, sleeps 8. Great golfing; boat slip available; many amenities available through the lodge. No smoking; no pets. $500 for the week. Call Jack Ferris at (913) 226-4476.

Family fun in South Dakota - Summer special on day guide rate! Three people for the price of two from July 1 - Sept. 30. 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 world-class fishing experience and memories to last a lifetime.

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

(Classified ads continue on page 13)

1

Aug.

St. Casimir Church, 917 Pennsylvania, Leavenworth, will host its annual roast beef dinner on Aug. 1 from noon until 3:30 p.m. The cost is $8 for adults; $4 for children 12 and under. Carryouts will be available.

3

Queen of Holy Rosary-Wea, 22779 Metcalf, Bucyrus, will host a pancake breakfast, catered by Chris Cakes, from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. on Aug. 3 in the school cafeteria. A $6 per person donation is appreciated. Proceeds will benefit breast cancer research.

“All My Money,” a seven-week program that teaches women basic money literacy, will be offered from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. on Tuesdays, beginning Aug. 3, at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. Space is limited. Women who attend all sessions will receive $100 for a savings account.

For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www. mountosb.org/kwc.

6

The CYO of St. Patrick Parish, Kansas City, Kan., will host its annual golf tournament on Aug. 6 at Painted Hills

Spacious Roeland Park home - 4809 Mohawk.

5 BR, 3-1/2 BA, two-car garage, hardwood floors, park-like landscaped yard. Many updates, including new roof. 2,850 square feet plus basement. Near Bishop Miege and St. Agnes Parish. (913) 236-9426. $249,000.

Commercial building for sale or lease - 8500 sq. ft. office and warehouse. West Shawnee location with great highway access. Large fenced-in storage lot. Ideal for contractor, repair facility or manufacturer. For information, call (816) 536-3059.

Childcare El Centro’s Academy for Children - A duallanguage (English/Spanish), all day, early education program for children 2 ½ - 5 years. Your child will develop social, emotional, language and motor skills in a safe, nurturing environment. Nationally accredited and licensed facility. Centrally located between 18th St. Expressway and I-635 in Kansas City, Kan. For information, call (913) 677-1115 or visit the Web site at: www.el centroinc.com.

After-school care needed - 2 -3 days/week; from approximately 3 - 5 p.m. One child to be picked up at St. Paul, and one from Forestview; both in west Olathe. Perfect for a college student. Please provide three references. Send an e-mail to: hacka1427@ gmail.com.

Child care available - Holy Trinity mom can add one child, 12 months or older, for child care in my Lenexa home. 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Call Tracie at (913) 909-7927.

Golf Course, Kansas City, Kan. The cost is $75 per person or $300 per foursome for registrations received by July 28. After the deadline, the cost is $80 per person.

For information, contact Bryan Barnhardt at (913) 238-2143.

7

“The Mystery in Mary Reveals the Mystery in Us,” a one-day retreat presented by Ann O’Donnell of the Kolbe MIssionaries, will be offered from 10 a.m.

- 3 p.m. on Aug. 7 in the parish hall at Redemptorist Church, 3333 Broadway, Kansas City, Mo. Brown bag lunches will be available for $5. A freewill offering will be collected to cover retreat costs.

For information, contact Christine Rossi at (913) 268-0209 or send an e-mail to: Queenofpeace27@yahoo.com.

St. James Parish, Wetmore, will host a hog roast from 5 - 8 p.m. on Aug. 7. A freewill donation will be collected. There will be raffle items, a beer garden, live music and an auction at 8 p.m. Proceeds will benefit the church building fund.

Married and loving it, most of the time! Join Worldwide Marriage Encounter and Mater Dei Parish for this great half-day enrichment program designed to refresh your relationship from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Aug. 7 at the parish school, 934 S.W. Clay, Topeka. The cost is $25 per couple and includes lunch and all materials. Child care is available for an additional fee of $5 per child. Registration fee can be mailed to the parish office. For information, call Kevin and Karen Mead at (785) 266-7573 or Ralph and Jan Lewis at (913) 400-7173.

Kim’s Coterie Licensed Home Preschool & Daycare - Located in Shawnee. Part-time and fulltime openings for this fall. Two-year-olds and older.

Call Kim Bailey at (913) 624-4880 or send an e-mail to: itscm4me@yahoo.com.

Misc.

Unique French and African products - Antiques, crucifixes, soap, and art. Marché Français offers products from southwestern France and from refugees in Morocco. The sale of batik wall hangings from the Ivory Coast, handcrafted in beautiful rich colors, supports a single mother who sells her art to provide for her family. Items are located in Overland Park. Shop online at: www.marchefrancaisonline. com.

Donate a vehicle. Make a difference. Donate your vehicle to Catholic Charities to support those in need. Your tax-deductible donation of a vehicle helps children and families served by Catholic Charities and is an environmentally responsible way to recycle your vehicle. Cars for KC Kids is a partnership between Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas and Catholic Charities of Kansas City - St. Joseph. Call 1 (866) 4309499 or visit the Web site at: www.cars4kckids. com.

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

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

Call Chris at (913) 593-7507 or (913) 642-8269 Will buy firearms and related accessories One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee.

Antique/Vintage Costume Jewelry ***Wanted to Buy*** * Member St. Joseph Parish Renee Maderak (913) 631-7179

Entertainment

For Sale: One space, without marker, in the Hope Lawn Crypt at Resurrection Cemetery, Lenexa. Lot 20; section D; space 3. Originally purchased in 1990.

Marker price going up in Aug. per Catholic Cemeteries. $3000. Call Peggy Langenbach at (816) 645-2890.

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.

wide picnic for members and guests at 6 p.m. on Aug. 11 in Davern Hall at Christ the King Parish, 3024 N. 53rd, Kansas City, Kan. Bring a covered dish to share, plus $1 per person for the meat. To RSVP, call Mary at (913) 236-7381.

14

Singles of Nativity will host a “Dog Days of Summer” dance from 7 - 11 p.m. on Aug. 14 in the parish hall at the Church of the Nativity, 119th and Mission Rd., Leawood. The cost is $10 for members; $15 for guests. Wear tropical attire.

For information, send an e-mail to: www.

SON-Ministry.org; visit the Web site at: www.singleskc.org; or call Kathy at (913) 645-2046.

St. Stanislaus, Rossville, will host its annual picnic on Aug. 14. A chicken dinner will be served from 4 - 7 p.m. There will be bingo from 3 - 5 p.m. and a silent auction.

15

The Leavenworth Region of the ACCW will host its quarterly meeting

and luncheon at 12:30 p.m. on Aug. 15 in the Leintz Community Room, 4701 10th Ave., Leavenworth. Bring a covered dish to share, ditty bag items, used cards and stamps, and pennies for seminarians. For information, call Judy at (913) 727-4528 or send an e-mail to her at: brosej2002@ yahoo.com.

19

8

11

A memorial liturgy for deceased loved ones will be held at 8 a.m. on Aug. 21 at Curé of Ars Church, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood. The bereavement ministry will have its monthly meeting following Mass in the Father Burak Room. The topic will be: “Forgiveness After Loss.” For information, call (913) 649-2026.

The Daughters of Isabella, Our Lady of Fatima Circle, will host an area-

Grand piano - Young Chang with automatic player. PG-208 Pramberger signature series. Ebony polish. $12,000. Call (913) 384-3767.

For sale

A healing Mass, sponsored by archdiocesan charismatic prayer groups, will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Aug. 19 at Curé of Ars Church, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood. Father Mark Mertes will preside; fellowship follows.

St. Gregory Church, 1310 Carolina, Marysville, will host a parish bazaar on Aug. 8. A pan-fried chicken and ham dinner will be served from 4:30 - 7 p.m. The cost is $7 for adults; $4 for children. There will also be a cakewalk, bingo, a moonwalk, a live auction, and concessions available in the church parking lot.

CALENDAR 13

21

St. John the Baptist, the Croatian parish on Strawberry Hill, 708 N. 4th St., Kansas City, Kan., will host its annual festival on Aug. 21 after the 4 p.m. Mass on the church grounds. There will be an outdoor dance, featuring Don Lipovac, from 9 - 11 p.m. on the museum grounds located next door. Lots of food and drink, with traditional sarma dinners, smoked sausage, hamburgers, hot dogs and desserts. There will be raffles featuring homemade poviticas and apple strudels, salamis, baskets of goodies and surprise packages.

20-22

Divorced? Widowed?

Beginning Experience Weekend gently helps people move through their loss to a new beginning in their lives. The next weekend for the Kansas City area will be Aug. 20-22. For information or for registration material, send an e-mail to: BEWeekendKC@hotmail.com; call John at (913) 219-3465 in Kansas City; Sue at (785) 331-2216 in Lawrence; Michelle (785) 478-3481 in Topeka; or visit the Web site at: www.beginningexperience. org.

29

The Ladies of Charity of Metropolitan Kansas City invite women of all ages to an afternoon tea party and children’s fashion show from 2 - 4 p.m. on Aug. 29 in the parish hall at the Church of the Nativity, 3800 W. 119th St., Leawood. Proceeds will benefit not-forprofit groups for the underprivileged and uninsured, including the Duchesne Clinic, Seton Center and Villa St. Francis. The cost is $20 for adults; $10 for children.

Space is limited. For reservations, send a check payable to Ladies of Charity, by Aug. 22, to Linda George, 14020 Nicklaus Dr., Overland Park, KS 66223. For information, call (913) 402-9013.

St. Augustine Parish, Fidelity, will celebrate its 150th anniversary on Aug. 29 with a 9 a.m. Mass. There will be a dinner at noon. A freewill offering will be taken up. For information or to RSVP for the dinner, contact Lois Bindel by July 14 at (785) 467-3817.

14 COMMENTARY

THE LEAVEN • july 30, 2010

Mark my words

Catholic Press Association Award Winner 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010

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

Scripture Readings eighteenth WEEK IN ordinary time Aug. 1 eighTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Eccl 1: 2; 2: 21-23; Ps 90: 3-6, 12-14, 17; Col 3: 1-5, 9-11; Lk 12: 13-21 Aug. 2 Eusebius of Vercelli, bishop; Peter Julian Eymard, priest Jer 28: 1-17; Ps 119: 29, 43, 79-80, 95, 102; Mt 14: 13-21 Aug. 3 Tuesday Jer 30: 1-2, 12-15, 18-22; Ps 102: 16-23, 29; Mt 14: 22-36 Aug. 4 John Mary Vianney, priest Jer 31: 1-7; (Ps) Jer 31: 10-13; Mt 15: 21-28 Aug. 5 The Dedication of the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome Jer 31: 31-34; Ps 51: 12-15, 18-19; Mt 16: 13-23 Aug. 6 THE TRANSFIGURATION OF THE LORD Dn 7: 9-10, 13-14; Ps 97: 1-2, 5-6, 9; 2 Pt 1: 16-19; Lk 9: 28b-36 Aug. 7 Sixtus II, pope, martyr, and his companions, martyrs; Cajetan, priest Hb 1:12 — 2:4; Ps 9: 8-13; Mt 17: 14-20 nineteenth WEEK IN ordinary time Aug. 8 nineTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Wis 18: 6-9; Ps 33: 1, 12, 18-22; Heb 11: 1-2, 8-19; Lk 12: 32-48 Aug. 9 Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein), virgin, martyr Ez 1: 2-5, 24-28c; Ps 148: 1-2, 11-14; Mt 17: 22-27 Aug. 10 LAWRENCE, DEACON, MARTYR 2 Cor 9: 6-10; Ps 112: 1-2, 5-9; Jn 12: 24-26 Aug. 11 Clare, virgin Ez 9: 1-7; 10: 18-22; Ps 113: 1-6; Mt 18: 15-20 Aug. 12 Jane Frances de Chantal, religious Ez 12: 1-12; Ps 78: 56-59, 61-62; Mt 18:21 — 19:1 Aug. 13 Pontian, pope, martyr, and Hippolytus, priest, martyr Ez 16: 1-15, 60, 63; (Ps) Is 12: 2-3, 4bcd, 5-6; Mt 19: 3-12 Aug. 14 Maximilian Mary Kolbe, priest, martyr Ez 18: 1-10, 13b, 30-32; Ps 51: 12-15, 18-19; Mt 19: 13-15

A

Let a feline help reveal the Divine

fter a burial a couple of weeks ago, I was approached at the cemetery by a relative of the person who had died. This man said he’d like to talk to me at the funeral dinner. There, he slipped me a sheet of paper with a couple of stories that he hoped I could use in my column here. I couldn’t help myself: I laughed in his face.

One of those stories was attributed to the preacher Dwight Nelson, who tells this “true” tale about the pastor of his church where he grew up.

Apparently, this pastor had a kitten that climbed up a tree in his backyard and was then afraid to come down. Even though the preacher coaxed and offered the cat warm milk, it would still not come down.

The tree wasn’t sturdy enough to climb, so the pastor decided to tie a rope to his car and then pull until the tree bent down, making it easy then to reach up and get the kitten. Ever so slowly, always checking his progress in the car, the pastor pulled that rope and watched the tree bend. Sadly, as he moved the car some last few inches, the rope broke.

“Boing” went the tree and the poor kitty was instantly launched through the air and sailed out of sight.

The pastor felt horrible! With a heavy heart, he prayed, “Lord, I commit this kitten to your keeping.”

A few days later at the grocery store, he met one of his parishioners and was amazed to see cans of cat food in her shopping cart. This woman was an avowed cat hater and everyone knew it.

Puzzled, he asked, “Why in the world are you buying cat food when you hate cats so much?”

Breathlessly, the woman poured out

the story of how her little girl had been begging for a cat, but she kept refusing.

A few days ago, when the girl started up her begging again, the woman told her, “Well, if God gives you a cat, I’ll let you keep it.”

Looking intently into the pastor’s face, the woman then whispered, “I watched my child go out in the yard, get on her knees and ask God for a cat. And really, Pastor, you won’t believe this, but I saw it with my own eyes. A kitten suddenly came flying out of the blue sky, with its paws outstretched, and landed right in front of her!”

The pastor left the store with an amused look on his face and learned to never underestimate the power of God and his unique sense of humor! ******************** Naturally, being a diligent journalist (and a confirmed skeptic), I looked up this story on the urban legends site, snopes.com. Sure enough, there it was in several different versions under “Catapulted Cat.” So, even though the “truth” factor of this story is doubtful, it’s still a funny tale and the reason that I laughed in the face of the man who gave it to me.

Maybe all of us can learn a lesson from that little girl and pray with a

confident childlike faith. After all, didn’t the Gospel last weekend tell us to ask, seek and knock? St. Luke didn’t say that we’ll perhaps receive, or we might find, or maybe the door will be opened. No, God doesn’t work that way. He gives, opens, and helps us find every time we ask. Granted, the response may not be exactly what we had in mind, but we’re called to trust that it’s what God knows is best for us and for those we pray for.

And, yes, sometimes those answered prayers even give us a glimpse of God’s sense of humor.

Often we forget the great power to be found in prayer. While it’s certainly important to pray for our own needs, there’s a great connection that happens when we pray for others and their intentions.

Why not devote the month of August, when it’s really too hot to do a whole lot of anything, to becoming a more diligent prayer partner? Use any high- or low-tech tool to help you out.

For example, on my iPhone I have two apps: one is called PrayerList; the other, Promise2Pray. Since I usually have my phone with me, it’s easy to add people by name and intention to my prayer list . . . right when they’re talking to me. The low-tech way is simply to carry a small tablet and pen in pocket or purse and do the same. Seeing a person’s name and particular intention written out keeps me faithful to my commitment to pray for them.

We need God’s daily help, we need each other, and we need prayer. So, let’s get to it! And don’t be surprised if it starts raining cats and dogs.

word to life

T

Are you wealthy in things that matter to God?

here’s plenty in the press these days about the world’s financial wizards blithely making more and more millions of dollars for themselves, without regard to the current economic crisis.

to a matters-to-God track.

Our friend Fred was a good man.

An Ivy League grad, he was a talented, creative professional who rose to the top levels of his field. He became a division director of his firm It’s impossible not to ask the quesand was highly regarded tion: How much does one person among his peers. His adult need? Maybe these wizards daughter followed plow their gains back into eighTEENTH SUNDAY right along in his the economy, though. Nope.

IN ORDINARY TIME footsteps. Fred Their modus operandi is to Lk 12: 13-21 was well-liked. He invest the gain . . . to make wasn’t selfish or yet more millions. greedy, but he was This weekend’s Gospel pursuing a path to success cautions against a life concentrated on he’d been on since he entered storing up riches in order to rest, eat, college. drink and be merry. In explaining his He’d served on the board of his parable of the rich man, Jesus poses professional organization for many this question, in effect: What happens years. A month before Fred was to aswhen you’ve saved up all this wealth, sume the presidency of the group, he but die with nothing that matters to e-mailed board members that he must God? step down because he couldn’t commit His warning is for more than the to the travel required of the position. mega-rich financial wizards. The drive, Personal matters made it necessary for or at least the temptation, to store up him to be close to home. wealth, prestige or simply “disposable That December, his friends and income” bubbles up in all of us in some colleagues received a photo Christmas form. For those who find some success card from him and his wife in their at it, it can become difficult to get off new home — with eight young specialthe wealth-building track and back on

“Think of what is above, not of what is on earth.”

—Col 3:2 needs foster children. Everything they had once stored away for themselves had been brought out and redeemed for a new life dedicated to something that undoubtedly matters to God. Editor’s note: Father Mike Stubbs is on sabbatical until January. Until his return, The Leaven will be running Word of Life, a Scripture column provided by Catholic News Service.

16 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • July 30, 2010

Instructor Kathryn Pickens, from the University of Tulsa, discusses petitions Second-grader Nathan Deters and intercessions with her class of fifth- and sixth-graders. shows off his picture of Jesus preaching to a crowd.

Participants take part in a group prayer in the cafeteria of the grade school at Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Seneca.

Leaven photos by Steve Johnson

Totus Tuus instructor Jonathan Dizon, from Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in St. Louis, works with second-grader Sarah Hemman during the camp.

Faith takes no summer vacation

By Bob Hart

Special to The Leaven

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Call it “Catholic Summer Bible School.” Or better yet, call it by its alliterative sobriquet: Totus Tuus.

A Latin term meaning “totally yours,” Totus Tuus was adopted by Pope John Paul II as his papal motto, as a means of expressing his strong Marian devotion. It’s also the name of a summer program for children that was first offered eight years ago in the archdiocese and is run by Father Jerry Volz.

“It’s a catechetical outreach to youth,” explained Father Volz. “This summer, we’ll travel to 18 different parishes for one week each, and we’ll involve somewhere between 800 and 900 kids.”

Each team that goes out to a parish is comprised of three college students and a seminarian, all of whom receive a small stipend for their work, but are essentially volunteering their time and talents. There are two different programs, distinguished by grade level — one for children in first through sixth grades; another for kids in seventh through twelfth.

Although there’s plenty of time for fun, including songs and skits, there’s also an emphasis on learning. This summer’s emphasis is

on the luminous mysteries of the rosary, said Father Volz.

Father Andrew Strobl, who’s in charge of recruiting team members, comes by the position honestly. In an article in The Leaven, he recalled his team member participation from a few years back and said “teaching Totus Tuus” was “the best job” he’d ever had.

Parish workers, kids and parents alike, feel that same sort of enthusiasm from team members.

“This was my first personal experience with Totus Tuus,” said Barbara Berg, director of religious education for St. Dominic Parish, Holton.

“I was just extremely impressed with the awesome team members and the way they interacted so well with both the kids and the adults.”

One of St. Dominic’s younger parishioners, 7-year-old Olivia McAsey, seemed to agree.

“We did a lot of things in class that we had fun with,” Olivia said. “We learned how to pray the rosary. We learned a lot about Jesus and the saints, and how they helped people.”

Rita Boller, a parishioner of St. Leo, Horton, sent both her fourth-grader, Kinsey, and her eighth-grader, McKenna, back to the program this summer and said she’d highly recommend it to other parents.

“We’ll be taking part in Totus Tuus as long as they come to our parish,” Boller said. “It’s a

Pope John Paul II and Totus Tuus “Totus Tuus. This phrase is not only an expression of piety, or simply an expression of devotion. It is more. During the Second World War, while I was employed as a factory worker, I came to be attracted to Marian devotion. At first, it had seemed to me that I should distance myself a bit from the Marian devotion of my childhood, in order to focus more on Christ. Thanks to Saint Louis of Montfort, I came to understand that true devotion to the Mother of God is actually Christocentric; indeed, it is very profoundly rooted in the Mystery of the Blessed Trinity, and the mysteries of the Incarnation and Redemption.”

— Pope John Paul II in “Crossing the Threshold of Hope” (Arnoldo Mondadori Editori, 1994) way for the kids to get in touch with their faith in a completely different way. And the team of leaders — what a great example they set! It’s an opportunity for the kids to think about how they might choose to be more active in their faith as they get a little older, like the team members are.”