08-14-09 Vol. 31 No. 4

www.theleaven.com | Newspaper of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas | Vol. 31, No. 4 August 14, 2009

Leaven photo by Marc Anderson

Maria Becker offers a homemade brownie to St. Joseph/Sacred Heart parishioner Isabella Holthaus after a recent Mass in Topeka. For more than 10 years, Becker has been providing treats like gummy bears, homemade cookies and fresh fruit to children of the parish after the 8 a.m. Sunday Mass. According to Becker, it’s just her way of showing love to the children. She believes that if they receive love, they are more likely to pass it on in some way to others.

Love in a baked treat

By Marc and Julie Anderson

T

OPEKA — Conduct a quick review of any parish’s roster of activities and ministries and chances are you won’t find Maria Becker’s listed.

But Becker has found a unique way to nurture the youngest parishioners of St. Joseph/Sacred Heart Parish in Topeka through what has recently been dubbed her “cookie ministry.”

Every weekend for at least the past 10 years, Becker has made it a priority to prepare a treat for the children of the parish who attend the 8 a.m. Sunday Mass. After Mass, she stands near the main doors of the church (inside or out-

side, depending on the weather) with a basket filled with everything from gummy bears to fresh fruit to homemade cookies to popsicles.

As families exit the vestibule, most of the children make a beeline to where Becker stands waiting to distribute that weekend’s surprise. Since she has been a fixture at the parish long before many of the youngsters were born, some little parishioners have not yet realized that not every Mass comes complete with a little treat at the end.

Becker said she didn’t plan to start providing treats for kids. Rather, it’s something that just evolved. In fact, she won’t even take credit for the original idea, since years ago, a gentle-

Turn to “Cookie” on page 5

fired up

brand new

Nine members of the Army of Christ youth group had a life-changing experience at an Arizona youth conference.

Despite some last minute delays that had some folks stressing out, the dedication of the new St. Francis de Sales Church in Lansing went off without a hitch.

Health Care reform

3

4

Health care reform is necessary, say the bishops, but not at the cost of life issues.

7-9

2 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • august 14, 2009

Rosemary (Sieben) and Edward Bradford, members of Sacred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie, will celebrate their 60th wedAnniversaries ding anniversary on Aug. 15 at the Tonganoxie Community Historical Society.

They were married on Oct. 29, 1949, at St. Lawrence Church in Easton. Their children are: David Bradford, Marylee Berry and Kim Bradford. They have six grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Beatrice and John Golom, members of St. Agnes Parish in Roeland Park, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on Aug. 20. The couple was married on Aug. 20, 1949, at St. Thomas Aquinas Parish in East Lansing, Mich. Their children and their spouses are: Kathleen and Marcus Daly; Patricia Hall; Michael Golom; Rebecca and Thomas Hanneman; Linda and Michael Mies; and Matthew Golom. They also have 10 grandchildren.

Gilbert and Edna (Heiman) Fangman, members of Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish, Topeka, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a family trip to Branson, Mo. The couple was married on Aug. 17, 1959, at Sacred Heart Church, Baileyville. Their children and their spouses are: Cathy and Walt Berry, Lawrence; Carol and Kevin Grimm, Madison, Ala.; Martin Fangman, Overland Park; Doris and Martin Geeding, Wichita; Gary and Shelly Fangman, Grantville; and Amy and Todd Wallis, Jenson, Utah. They also have 12 grandchildren.

Marilyn (Schugart) and Delbert Grover, members of Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 9 with their family at a noon Mass, followed by a dinner hosted by their children. The couple was married on Aug. 26, 1959, at Holy Trinity Church, Timken.

Their children and their spouses are: Greg and Audery Grover, Liberty, Mo.; Brad and Kelly Reinhardt, Olathe; John and Denise Gerstberger, Leoti; David and Jodi Grover, Iola; Kyle and Lisa Grover, Bonney Lake, Wash.; and Sarah Grover, Overland Park.

They also have 16 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

THE LEAVEN • AUGUST 14, 2009 Harlan and Sandra (Boos) Berland, members of Church of the Nativity, Leawood, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 29. The couple was married on Aug. 29, 1959, at St. Mary Church in Hays. A gathering of extended family and friends will be held in Damar. An early celebration with the immediate family was held in July at the Big Cedar Lodge in Branson, Mo. Their children and their spouses are: Kevin and Debra Berland, Birmingham, Ala.; and Russell and Denise Berland, Lawrence.

They also have four grandchildren.

John and Bernice (Haug) Nordhus, members of Sts. Peter and Paul Parish, Seneca, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on Aug. 9 at an 11 a.m. Mass of thanksgiving at the church. A family dinner followed at the Windmill Inn; an open house for all their relatives and friends was held at the Nordhus pond from 3 to 4:30 p.m.

The couple was married on Aug. 10, 1949, at St. Mary Church in St. Benedict. The celebration was hosted by their children and

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their spouses: Robert and Sheryl Nordhus; Mary Lynn and Arland Stephens; Diane and Jim Schultejans; Deb and Sam Hermesch; Bill Nordhus; Kathleen and Robert Nolte; Julie and Dave Glissman; John and Barb Nordhus; Tom and Melissa Nordhus; Jerry and Karen Nordhus; and Sharon and Dave Schumaker. One daughter, Jane Ann, is deceased. They also have 39 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.

Mary Lynn (Doran) and Charles Holloran, members of Holy Angels Parish, Garnett, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 22 with a reception from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Garnett Knights of Columbus Hall. The couple was married on Aug. 27, 1959, at Holy Angels. Their children and their spouses are: Tracey and Joe Rickabaugh; Tammra and Ken Schillig; Chuck Holloran; Marty and Julie Holloran; and Kevin and Stacy Holloran.

They also have 12 grandchildren and one great-grandson.

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The Leaven only prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th anniversary notices.

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Little Miracles in Lansing

By Jill Ragar Esfeld Special to The Leaven

LANSING — There were a number of miracles leading up to the dedication of the new church at St. Francis de Sales Parish here on Aug. 1. But parishioners agree that the biggest miracle of all involved just getting in the door.

Last-minute effort Archbishop Joseph Naumann, several archdiocesan priests and 450 parishioners had accepted invitations to the dedication event scheduled for 10 a.m.

Saturday. But as of Friday afternoon, event planners were without a certificate of occupancy.

“There was a lot of tension,” said Mary-Theresa Madill, parish project manager. “They had to wait for the permit to get the chairs out of the old church and into the new church, before they could set up tables for the reception in the old church (now the parish center).”

Late Friday afternoon, the certificate arrived and this parish of 500 families went into overdrive — moving chairs, setting up tables, and putting the finishing touches on its new church home.

Even the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth came over to lend a hand.

“There were so many people up here, it was like a community barn-building,” said St. Francis de Sales secretary and bookkeeper Helen Nowak.

That outpouring of support was no surprise. The other great miracle of St. Francis de Sales is the parishioners.

Because this is not a large or wealthy parish, the new church has been built on what many refer to as a shoestring budget. But all along the way, parishioners have gladly picked up the laces and tied the final bow.

“We began our campaign with some savings that we had accumulated over the previous years,” explained Nowak.

“That amount was about $300,000. The campaigns we undertook brought us an additional $1,875,000. We raised this primarily through pledges, fundraisers and interest on our savings. To cover the total cost of the project, we needed a loan from the archdiocese for about $1.4 million.”

The week before the dedication, parishioners were helping save money by rolling up their sleeves to do landscaping.

“People came out in droves,” said Madill. “By Thursday night, I lost count of how many, but we were there four hours and a bunch of us got poison ivy.”

“There were at least 75 parishioners here working for several hours,” agreed pastor Father Michael Stubbs. “Some were little kids with toy shovels, but

Saint Francis de Sales Timeline Saint Francis de Sales Church in Lansing is one of the oldest churches in Kansas in terms of continuous service to the faithful. It began as a small mission located on a hill overlooking the Missouri River in Delaware City.

Piers Driven to Load-Bearing Strata or Bedrock

Lawrence Topeka (785) 865-0006 (785) 246-0128

SECOND FRONT PAGE 3

1854 – Jesuit priests from Immaculate Conception Church in Leavenworth offered Mass about once a month at St. Francis de Sales mission church in Delaware

Leaven photos by Elaina Cochran

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann anoints the new altar at St. Francis de Sales Church in Lansing.

The altar was donated to the parish by the brothers of Father Mike Stubbs, pastor.

Father Stubbs lights a candle on the altar prior to the Liturgy of the Eucharist. they were all willing to dig in, literally, to make this a success.”

Opening day Everything was in place by Saturday morning when the dedication began. Parishioners gathered in their old church and then processed the few yards to the doors of the new church.

The choir, made up of parishioners and Sisters of Charity, and the Leavenworth Brass Quartet marched along, singing “Laudate, Laudate Dominum.”

Using the terms “patience and tenacity” to describe the journey of building the church, Hadley Stolte, representing the architects, presented the church plans to the archbishop. Bob Riese, representing the parish steering committee, presented Archbishop Naumann with the key.

The archbishop expressed gratitude to “all those present who brought us to this moment,” and handed the key over to Father Stubbs, who opened the door.

Four banners — representing the four evangelists Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, made by a member of the parish’s arts and environment commit-

City. At this time, there were only 50 parishioners. With the building of the Kansas State Penitentiary in 1864, more Catholics moved into the area.

1884 – The church moved two miles west to 105 E. Kay in Lansing.

A picture of the relocation shows horses pulling the structure. Here the church continued under various pastors until 1979.

November 1885 – The first couple married in the newly relocated church was Ellen Naylon and William Morgan. The first baby

tee — led parishioners into their new home.

A fifth banner featured the three buildings that have been home to this parish since 1854. The outlines of the buildings, on close inspection, were made up of parishioners’ names.

This newest building is still a work in progress, said Father Stubbs. Final touches are yet to be added, such a reredos behind the altar and a rose stainedglass window above the entrance.

As the parish continues to raise money, the church basement will eventually be finished into office space and meeting rooms.

baptized at the new location was Blanche McCarthy.

1910 – Under Father Geintz, stained-glass windows and contoured pews were installed. A coal furnace heated the church and a small coal stove was in the sanctuary.

1945 to 1960 – Father Harry Imhof improved the structure again with new hardwood floors and a new altar, crafted by parishioner Adolf Zinzer.

January 1961 – Archbishop

A good beginning Parishioners entering the 35,000-square-foot structure on dedication day were pleased with what has been accomplished so far.

The floor of the church entrance is inlaid with a labyrinth pattern designed by parishioner Susan Connelly. The labyrinth path leads to the baptismal font, which is lit overhead by beautifully ornate lamps that bring a bit of history to this new church.

“The lights are out of the motherhouse from the Sisters of Charity of

Turn to “Parishioners” on page 6 Hunkeler gave St. Francis de Sales mission the status of parish. A background painting of the Sermon on the Mount was painted by parishioner Eugene Young (who is also painting the mural for the new church).

February 1979 – The church building was sold to a Baptist group. St. Francis de Sales Church was moved to a round structure at the corner of Ida & DeSoto Road.

This multipurpose building has since served as the liturgical and secular activity center for the parish community.

January 2001 – The needs of the parish — a larger worship area, more room for religious education and an adequate parish hall — were addressed in the design of a new 35,000 square-foot space.

April 2002 – The capital campaign began for the new church July 2008 – St. Francis de Sales Parish breaks ground on a new church building.

August 2009 – The new church is dedicated on Aug. 1.

4 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • August 14, 2009

THE LEAVEN • AUGUST 14, 2009

Army of Christ brings back the fire

By JOE BOLLIG

Continued from page 3

Leaven staff

EASTON — Nothing against Tucson, Ariz., but 13-year-old Georgia Lynn Dean just didn’t want to go there.

The fact that Arizona in July is a rather warm place had nothing to do with it. Rather, Georgia Lynn, a member of St. Joseph of the Valley Parish in rural Leavenworth, didn’t want to go to the Steubenville West youth conference, held July 24 to 26 at Arizona University.

Her mother and parish youth group leader Dawn Dean, and her older sister Elizabeth, however, were going. That meant Georgia Lynn had to go, too.

And for Georgia Lynn, the whole experience was very, very . . . fantastic.

“I didn’t want to go at first, but now I’m glad I went,” said Georgia Lynn. “It was just a lot of fun, and I felt so much closer to God than before I went.”

St. Joseph of the Valley and St. Lawrence Parish in Easton sent nine youths, two parents and pastor Father Neal Stull, SOLT, of the Army of Christ youth group to the Tucson conference.

Steubenville West was one of 19 youth conferences held across the nation, offered by the Franciscan University of Steubenville, Ohio, and the Life Teen ministry.

Thousands of Catholic youngsters attend these events, which are a combination pep rally, seminar, concert and liturgy. It’s a supercharged mix, meant to set the teens’ faith on fire.

Exactly what Father Neal was hoping for.

“I desperately wanted this for my kids,” he said. “This is an incredible youth conference. It has life-changing experiences for these kids. Most of all, I wanted them to have that kind of opportunity for a new-found relationship with Jesus Christ.

“I saw that happen. I saw my kids change.”

Before he came to St. Joseph of the Valley and St. Lawrence, Father Neal was a pastor for six years at a Houston parish. There, he had the privilege of leading the parish youth group to two Steubenville conferences. His kids had great experiences each time.

When Father Neal got settled in Kansas, he wanted the same for the teens of his new parish, but it almost didn’t happen.

He tried last year, but couldn’t do it.

When the teens applied to attend the St. Louis conference this year, they learned it was booked — and there were 299 groups ahead of them on the waiting list. But Father Neal checked out conferences scheduled for other states, and found some room in Tucson.

The Steubenville conference featured opportunities for the sacrament of reconciliation, Mass, and eucharistic adoration. It also featured small group sessions on topics ranging from living chastely in an unchaste culture, dressing modestly, and Mary and the saints, to Christ’s presence in the Mass, and

Cookie ministry brings parish together

Father Stan Fortuna (above), of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal, jams with his guitar during one of the entertainment sessions.

Youth group members from St. Joseph of the Valley in rural Leavenworth and St. Lawrence in Easton who attended the Steubenville West youth conference in Tucson, Ariz., included: (from left, front) Laura Coffey, Anna Kern, Sierra Wagner, Korena Leach; (from left, back) Mary Kern, Elizabeth Dean, Kayla Heim, Georgia Lynn Dean.

“I desperately wanted this for my kids. This is an incredible youth conference.

It has life-changing experiences for these kids. Most of all, I wanted them to have that kind of opportunity for a new-found relationship with Jesus Christ.”

Father Neal Stull, SOLT vocations. Entertainment was provided by musical groups, including a rapping priest and a Catholic rapper called “Righteous D.”

It was a chance to be outrageously Catholic and have outrageous fun. It was a chance for small-town and rural Catholic youths to be around a couple of thousand kids who felt the same way they did. It was a chance to deepen relationships with Christ.

“I know all you guys believe that [Jesus is real],” Father Neal told his teens, “and your CCD teachers have told you that. Hopefully, I’ve presented in homilies that Jesus Christ is real, and a person. I know you know that, but I want you guys to experience it.”

“And they did!” he concluded.

“It really helped me to become closer to God, and it gave me a sense of peace and deepened my faith a lot,” said Elizabeth Dean. “I didn’t know you could be that close to God, and I felt him in a whole new way. I could jut feel him there. It was amazing.”

For both Elizabeth and Georgia Lynn, the highlight of the three-day event was

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President Most Reverend Joseph F. Naumann

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not the bands or the talks, but eucharistic adoration.

Father Neal himself was an inspiration to the youths. The rural Leavenworth pastor is being treated for cancer, and for a while it seemed he might not be well enough to attend.

Rather than exhausting him, however, the conference wound up exhilarating him.

“Part of the reason the kids were so motivated was because [Father Neal] was so fully behind it,” said Dawn Dean.

“He’s such a great spiritual leader. He got as much out of it or more than the kids.”

Now, only one thing remains — to prepare for next year. The kids who made the trip have brought enthusiasm back to their parishes, and Father Neal would like to keep it burning for the next year.

“A lot of kids didn’t go, and I think now they regret it,” he said. “They’ve talked to the kids who went, and it’s just exciting to see how Jesus touched their hearts.

“Now, our job is to keep this fire going.”

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Dan & Denise Keating, lifetime members of St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.

man of the parish used to supply bubble gum to any child who would ask him for it.

Becker’s baking for the children of the parish began when her husband was still alive and the couple would sit behind several young families for first Saturday Mass or devotions. The Beckers, who had five children, 24 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren of their own, so enjoyed seeing the families at Mass and visiting with them afterwards, that they began to bring cookies or brownies along to distribute.

Eventually, the number of families grew to half a dozen. Then, in 2001, the events of 9/11 caused Becker to stop and reflect on what a different world today’s kids were being raised in, compared to earlier generations. She also decided that it wasn’t fair for some children of the parish to receive treats and not others.

So she promptly decided to make, bake or provide enough cookies, cupcakes or candy bars for all the children who attended the 8 a.m. Mass — usually around 50. Although she often worries about running out of whatever the weekly treat happens to be, she has yet to do so. And she often has enough for a few adults to enjoy a treat, too.

One weekend, for example, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann made a parish visit during which he was offered that week’s selection of graham crackers and frosting. According to Becker, he enjoyed the snack and, in fact, was among the first to comment on her “regular little ministry” within the parish.

But it is not only the youngest parishioners who appreciate Becker’s efforts.

Matt Mercer, who, along with his wife Gretchen, has five children ranging in age from 2 to 13, said Becker’s ministry has been a blessing to the entire parish.

“It encourages fellowship after Mass,” explained Mercer. “Many families will stick around afterward and talk with one another. Kids will get a snack and play with each other, as well as visit with Maria.”

LOCAL NEWS 5 Caitlin Carter, a member of Girl Scout Troop 212, Service Unit 636, and Holy Cross Parish in Overland Park, has achieved Gold the Gold Award Award.

For her project, Carter organized a career day for the freshmen at Shawnee Mission West High School. The day gave the students an opportunity to explore careers and talk with adults about how they got their jobs and why they picked their particular field.

Nathan B. Haas, a member of Mother Teresa of Calcutta Parish in Topeka, and Boy Scout Troop 30, received eagle his Eagle scout Scout Award on July 26 at the church. Haas’ Eagle project consisted of installing lighting and landscaping at Mother Teresa Church during the summer of 2008.

FOCUS expands to 45 college campuses for new school year

Leaven photo by Marc Anderson

It’s not just the little ones who appreciate the treats that Maria Becker distributes after the 8 a.m. Mass each Sunday. Above, Michaela Carter helps herself to a brownie.

It’s not only that the kids appreciate it, said Mercer.

“It brings the community together,” he added.

Moreover, Becker has become sort of a grandmother figure to the children, he said, especially to those whose grandparents do not live nearby or whose grandparents have

Mass Of Innocents Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann invites you to join him in a Mass of Remembrance for all who have experienced the loss of a child thru miscarriage or other before birth losses, through stillbirth, or in early childhood death.

Sunday, September 13, 2009 noon Savior Pastoral Center 12601 Parallel Pkwy Kansas City, Kansas 66109

passed away.

But for Becker, it’s all about teaching the children a lesson in love.

“By giving them a little treat,” she said simply, “the kids are receiving love in some small measure.

“If they receive love, then they will give love to others.”

DENVER — The Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS), a fast-growing college campus outreach with a presence in 25 states, has added 12 more universities to its roster for the 2009-10 school year, bringing the total number of campuses served by FOCUS to 45.

Each year, FOCUS missionaries are sent in teams of four (or more) men and women to college campuses at the invitation of the local bishop and with the support of the local Newman Center or an existing campus ministry.

The new campuses to be served by FOCUS, beginning this fall, are: Drake University; Eastern Illinois University; Indiana University-Purdue University; Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Minnesota State University; Missouri State University; Montclair State University; New York University; University of Connecticut, Storrs; University of Florida; University of Kentucky; and University of South Dakota.

6 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • AUGUST 14, 2009

Parishioners young and old contribute to new church Continued from page 3 Leavenworth,” explained Sister Roberta O’Leary, director of religious education at the parish. “When they renovated, they weren’t using those in our main hall.”

A large crucifix above the altar overlooks the church. It is inscribed on the back with a quotation from a reflection on the cross by St. Francis de Sales.

On the altar were little church-shaped banks illustrating the significant contribution of the young people of the parish to the building fund.

“Since we started the capital campaign a few years ago, the kids have raised $12,128.29,” said Sister Roberta. “It’s nickels and dimes and quarters and once in a while a five dollar bill. It’s something they have worked hard on.”

The children’s donation will help fund the baptismal font.

“We wanted them to have something they could identify with,” said Sister Roberta. “Because they have been part of this, hopefully their sense of giving will continue.”

During his homily, Archbishop Naumann told the congregation that building this church has been “a profession of faith by this community.”

He discussed how the Catholic faith is based on a belief in Jesus’ real presence in the Eucharist and said, “We build our

Leaven photo by Elaina Cochran

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann blesses the Stations of the Cross with holy water during the dedication Mass of St. Francis de Sales Church on Aug. 1. churches to house this miracle of God dwelling with us.”

The archbishop said that he would be baptizing his greatniece that evening and discussed the similarities between the dedication of a church and a baptism — the symbolism of the water, oil and light in each ceremony, and how they are used in each to bring the joy and hope of the Gospel to the world.

“Our church is a reminder to us of our own identity as living temples of God,” he said.

As the archbishop anointed the new altar, the choir sang “How Lovely Is Your Dwelling Place.”

Looking forward Although the Lord’s dwelling place at St. Francis de Sales is beautiful now, in the coming months it promises to become even more so.

“The mural that eventually will go behind the altar will show the multiplication of the loaves and the fish, the miracle in which Jesus fed the hungry crowd,” said Father

Stubbs. “The mural will be a mirror image of our parish.”

The mural’s artist, Eugene Young, has photographed parishioners and will use them as models for the people in the crowd.

“In a larger sense, the mural will reflect the activity that we are engaged in every Sunday,” said Father Stubbs. “Gathered around the altar, we are fed by Jesus through the Eucharist, in a way analogous to the crowd being fed by Jesus in the multiplication of the loaves and the fish.”

Catholics and health care reform

Another addition to the altar are stones from the birthplace of St. Francis de Sales in Thorens-Glières in the eastern part of France, donated by former parishioners who now live in that country. The stones will be encased in a tile and set in the floor before the altar.

“It’s not a relic,” said Madill, “but it’s very meaningful.”

After the dedication service, parishioners were treated to a picnic-fare reception in their former church and “new” parish center.

Father Stubbs said the new church not only gives the parish some much-needed extra space, but also provides it better acoustics for music and a more reverent atmosphere for prayer.

“I hope St. Francis de Sales will answer the challenge of the multiplication of the loaves and the fish,” he said. “In that miracle, Jesus takes the little that the disciples have — the five loaves and the two fish — to feed over 5,000 people.

“Jesus can do the same thing with us — to take the little that we have to do something wonderful, to respond to the needs of the world.”

After the busy week of lastminute preparations, Father Stubbs took a moment to reflect on the continuing journey to this new church.

“We are still a work in progress,” he said. “It has been a gratifying experience but, at the moment, I feel exhausted.”

CNS photo/Jose Luis Magana, Reuters

Heather Baldwin of New Jersey cheers during a June 25 rally sponsored by Health Care for America Now on Capitol Hill in Washington. The organization is a national grass-roots campaign of more than 1,000 organizations in 46 states representing 30 million people dedicated to quality, affordable health care.

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

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

What message should Catholics send Congress on health care reform?

W

By Nancy Frazier O’Brien

A S H I NGT O N (CNS) — As the House of Representatives headed out of Washington for a fiveweek summer recess, with the Senate soon to follow, members of Congress were vowing to listen to their constituents’ views on health care reform.

But from a Catholic perspective, what should the American public be telling their representatives and senators about what promises to be the hottest topic when Congress returns after Labor Day? “We need health reform that

|

Catholic News Service

respects the life and dignity of every person, from conception to natural death,” said Sister Carol Keehan, a Daughter of Charity who is president and CEO of the Catholic Health Association. “That means the unborn, it means the patient with multiple sclerosis, the patient with cancer, the young mother, the addicted, the mentally ill, the dying patient and the frail, frail elderly.”

In an Aug. 3 interview with Catholic News Service, she decried the “deliberate distortions” about health care reform being circulated by “those who for whatever reason don’t want health reform to succeed.”

See “Health care bill” on page 9

Catholics and health care reform ‘It’s important for Catholics to be engaged in this debate’

Continued from page 7

Archbishop stress the importance of language that prohibits abortion funding

Q A

: Is health care reform necessary?

you also concerned about these?

A

: I think conscience protections are a critical issue. We have a great tradition in the United States of protecting the exercise of one’s conscience regarding health care providers. It’s essential that at least the current protections are maintained for both individuals and institutions.

And, yes, there is grave concern about health care reform being used to advance euthanasia. Part of that concern is in the efforts to reduce costs. Some of the methods could be used to deny legitimate treatments for those whose lives are “deemed unworthy.” I think the effort to rush through a reform bill — where no one seems to know all that’s included or excluded, who are included and excluded, and money matters are left open to interpretation by government bureaucrats — raises some legitimate concerns.

: The right kind of health care reform is necessary. What I mean by the “right kind” is reform that would provide access to health care for those who currently do not have it. And it would also help control costs for everyone.

I think one of the troubling elements of our current situation is that health care costs have risen at a much [faster] rate than salaries or other costs in the economy.

So, I hope that good reform would provide access for more people and help to better manage the cost of health care for everyone.

Q A

: Is the present health care system truly broken?

: The term is used sometimes that “the health care system is broken,” and I think we have to put some nuances on that, because there are elements of the health care system that need to be changed. But, on the other hand, we have the best quality of health care of any country in the world and of any civilization in the world’s history. In that sense, there is better health care available to more people today than ever before in human history, so I think we have to keep it in that perspective.

Q

: What are your concerns about the bills working their way through Congress?

A

: One of the biggest concerns is that those who promote abortion are trying to hijack health care reform as a way of advancing their agenda. One of my greatest concerns would be mandated abortion coverage — making it part of the basic health care package. This would coerce everyone in America to pay for abortions and become complicit in abortions.

Q

: Several bishops are concerned about conscience protections, as well as end-of-life protections. Are

Bishops seek reform that supports dignity

By Joe Bollig Leaven staff

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Who’s against health care reform? Not the Catholic Church, said Ron Kelsey, archdiocesan consultant for pro-life ministry.

Rather, the church opposes some clearly objectionable things that could be attached to health care reform — abortion mandates, increased abortion funding, and weak or absent conscience protections. “[Some] will say those who are opposed to abortion mandates are just trying to kill health care [reform],” said Kelsey. “It behooves us to make the point that there is a broadly perceived need [in the church] to improve health care. I don’t think anyone in the church is standing in opposition to that.”

In addition to the aforementioned concerns, there are also concerns held by some in the church and the pro-life community about end-of-life issues in health care reform.

Ron Kelsey “Some have also expressed concern about end-of-life issues and protecting life at the end of life, and making sure we don’t withhold medical treatments for people at the end of life,” said Kelsey.

“We want to avoid assisted suicide and euthanasia.”

There is legitimate cause for the bishops to be concerned, he said. There are three major health care reform bills before the U.S. Congress — two in the Senate and one in the House.

Up to now, all pro-life amendments have been shot down. One passed, but

was later defeated, thanks to committee chairman Rep. Henry Waxman, DCalif.

Kelsey hopes at some point language can be introduced into a health care bill that explicitly prohibits abortion mandates and funding.

“History shows us that if abortion is not explicitly prohibited, [the legislation] will be interpreted subsequently as being allowed,” said Kelsey.

Regardless of the final form of health care reform legislation, the bishops have been consistent in emphasizing what health care reform should be, he said.

“The principles that should be included in any health care legislation are protection and respect for the dignity of every human being from the moment of conception to natural death,” said Kelsey. “That excludes abortion, assisted suicide, euthanasia, embryonic stem-cell research. It includes protection of conscience rights.”

Q

: Some have called for “abortion neutral language,” while others call for language excluding abortion.

Which is the better alternative?

A

: I believe we need explicit language that prohibits abortion funding, and prohibits health care reform from being used to expand abortion funding. I think that without that language, we are vulnerable to a court, a legislature, or members of the executive branch of government interpreting the language of the law [differently] at a later date.

Health care bill is constantly evolving

Q

: What should Catholics keep in mind as we consider the issue of health care reform, such as how much should be government or private?

A

: I think these are things . . . where good Catholics can disagree. I think the basic principles of health care should not include procedures that destroy or offend the dignity of human life. These are clear principles the church enunciates.

Another principle is that everyone should have access to basic health care services.

I think it’s very important for Catholics to be engaged in this debate in our society and to make sure that their voices are heard and the values that we hold are included in health care policy.

Q

: It has been suggested that, given the positions of current executive and congressional leadership, our best efforts should be directed toward protecting pro-life progress reflected in current law.

A

: I think our hope is that we can defend current protections and pro-life policies that are in place, and that health care reform not be used to advance an abortion agenda.

— Interview by Joe Bollig

The worst of the distortions, Sister Carol said, is that CHA and Catholic Charities USA are “working at crosspurposes” with the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops on the abortion issue in health reform. All three groups are sending a clear message that health reform must be “at least abortionneutral” and must include conscience protections for health care professionals and institutions that do not want to participate in abortions or other morally objectionable medical procedures, she said.

Catholic Charities USA also issued a July 31 statement saying “unequivocally” that it “does not support any plan to reform health care and/or any proposed legislative provision that allows or promotes the funding of abortions or that compels any health care provider or institution to provide such a service.”

One problem with the health reform discussions is the sheer breadth and depth of proposals currently on the table. The “health reform bill” to which many commentators refer could apply to any of several proposals; there is no “Obama bill,” since President Barack Obama has left the legislative details to Congress.

In the Senate, the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (or HELP) Committee has proposed the Affordable Health Choices Act, while a sixmember bipartisan coalition within the Finance Committee was expected to work behind closed doors throughout the August recess on the language

Health care should seek common good

By Joe Bollig Leaven staff

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — One of the foundations of Catholic social teaching is the common good — and that’s why the church is interested in health care reform, said Bill Scholl, archdiocesan consultant for social justice “As citizens, we are not just called to look out for our own private interests, but rather to use our gifts and talents to serve the interests of all. Health care is one of those things needed for basic human dignity,” he said.

Speaking for the U.S. bishops was Bishop William F. Murphy, chairman of the USCCB Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development. He sent a letter on July 17 to the U.S. Congress, the president, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, outlining the conference’s criteria for fair and just health care reform: • A truly universal health policy with respect

for human life and dignity • Access for all, with special concern for the poor and inclusion of legal immigrants • Pursuing the common good and preserving pluralism, including freedom of conscience and a variety of options • Restraining costs and applying them equitably across the spectrum of payers.

“When it comes to human dignity, the bishops are saying we already have very sound policies on federal funding regarding abortion,” said Scholl.

“Taxpayer dollars for the most part are not spent on abortion,” he continued. “And also we have a lot of really good provisions and laws that protect the conscience of individuals in religious institutions, such that they are not compelled or forced to participate in acts that go against their conscience.”

This is a crucial time for Catholics to be engaged in the health care reform

Bill Scholl debate, said Scholl, and the bishops have outlined the basic principles that should guide the discussion.

“Catholic social teaching is not a specific list of public policies that Catholics are morally obliged to follow, but rather a moral framework by which they are to use their reason and discernment to make their best prudential judgments to advocate for the common good,” he said.

“There is room in the church for disagreement and debate, and I think

the bishops have been very clear about laying out the moral principles that should guide us,” said Scholl. “We should look at this issue in terms of the dignity of the human person and protecting life from conception to natural death.”

Scholl said that Catholics should also seek to embrace the principle of the common good, which includes accepting sacrifices that need to be made for the common good.

“We should also bring in the value of subsidiarity,” he added, “and insist that whatever policy we come up with, that it respects the dignity and rights of patients under the advice of their doctors to make decisions.”

The time has come for us, as Catholic Americans, to take a look at our health care system and ask how can we fix it so it produces the best possible good for the most possible people, said Scholl.

of its bill.

In the House, three committees — Ways and Means, Education and Labor, and Energy and Commerce — worked together to come up with the America’s Affordable Health Choices Act of 2009, known as the tri-committee legislation, or H.R. 3200.

The major bills have many similarities: The HELP proposal and the tri-committee legislation both would require all individuals to have health insurance and would subsidize the cost for those making up to 400 percent of the federal poverty level, currently $73,240 for a family of three. Employers — except those owning certain small businesses — would be required to offer insurance to their workers or pay a penalty under both plans.

Both would expand Medicaid to include more low-income people; the HELP bill would cover those making up to 150 percent of federal poverty level, while the tri-committee plan would include those making up to 133 percent of the federal poverty level and all newborns without other health coverage.

But all the bills have been heavily amended in committee, taking them further from consensus rather than closer to it.

The Senate HELP panel’s bill included “more than 160 Republican amendments” — and an unspecified number from Democratic members — before its July 15 committee approval, according to a committee news release. Each of the House committees also has approved the tri-committee bill, but not without tacking on dozens of amend-

By Joe Bollig Leaven staff

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — There is no better time than right now for Catholics to get involved in the health care reform debate, said Michael Schuttloffel, executive director of the Kansas Catholic Conference.

“Currently, the U.S. Congress is in recess, and the members are spending time in their home districts, taking time to find out how their constituents feel about health care,” he said.

“Right now,” he continued, “is an optimal time for Catholics in Kansas to get in touch with their representatives and senators to let them know what they think about health care.”

Each member of Congress has local offices to address constituent concerns.

Getting in touch is as easy as making a phone call.

“Some of these members may be scheduling town hall meetings or other public events,” said Schuttloffel. “Call their offices or go to their Web sites to see if there are any opportunities

ments.

Catholic advocates and lobbyists were scouring the various bills and amendments in an effort to ensure that the legislation meets the health reform priorities outlined by the USCCB, CHA and Catholic Charities — respect for human life at all stages and universal, affordable access.

“But the fact is that nothing that’s in existence today is likely” to come up for a vote on the House or Senate floor, said Kathy Saile, director of the U.S. bishops’ Office of Domestic Social Development. “There are still other steps to go through.”

An effort to make the Energy and Commerce version of the tri-committee bill abortion-neutral failed July 30, but an alternate amendment proposed by Rep. Lois Capps, D-Calif. — unacceptable because of its abortion provisions — did make some “good progress” toward pro-life goals by stipulating that state laws would not be preempted and offering “some good conscience protections,” Saile said.

But more work remains for members of Congress and for Catholics who hope to influence them.

“As Congress goes into recess, it’s important for members to hear from the people about the importance of keeping health reform legislation abortion-neutral,” said Deirdre A. McQuade, assistant director for policy and communications in the USCCB Secretariat of Pro-Life Activities. “Especially given the closeness of some of these [committee] votes, it’s clear that every vote matters.”

Contact your senators and representatives Sen. Sam Brownback 612 S. Kansas Ave. Topeka, KS 66603 Phone: (785) 233-2503 11111 W. 95th, Suite 245 Overland Park, KS 66214 Phone: (913) 492-6378 Sen. Pat Roberts 11900 College Blvd.

Suite 203 Overland Park, KS 66210 Phone: (913) 451-9343 Fax: (913) 451-9446 Frank Carlson Federal Bldg.

444 S.E. Quincy - Room 392 Topeka, KS 66683 Phone: (785) 295-2745 Rep. Dennis Moore (Third District) 8417 Santa Fe Drive #101 Overland Park, KS 66212 (913) 383-2013 500 State Ave. #176 Kansas City, KS 66101 (913) 621-0832 901 Kentucky St. #205 Lawrence, KS 66044 (785) 842-9313 FAX: (785) 843-3289 Rep. Lynn Jenkins (Second District) 3550 S.W. 5th St. Topeka, KS 66606 Phone: (785) 234-LYNN (5966)

Now is the time to speak up

to meet them in person. Otherwise, just talk to the staff person and tell them in no uncertain language where you stand.”

The conference’s main concern this August is that Catholics convey to members of Congress that any health care reform legislation must not include public financing of abortion.

“There’s tremendous concern about that subject because of the position of the current congressional leadership and our president on that issue,” he said.

“They all, for years, have been firmly on the side of expanded access to abortion and public funding of abortion. We want to ensure that does not happen in the context of whatever reform is finally produced by Congress.”

The church is drawing a bright, red line in the sand, said Schuttloffel. Taxpayer funding of abortion is completely unacceptable and will be vehemently opposed if it appears in the final version of this legislation.

“Public funding of abortion is way outside of the

mainstream,” said Schuttloffel. “Polling shows that even people who are pro-choice largely don’t believe that people should be forced to pay for abortion with taxpayer dollars. It’s completely outside of the mainstream and radical, particularly in Kansas.”

There is concern about some issues — like end-oflife care and the whole notion of government-provided insurance — even where there is not legislative language that can be pointed to as a problem. The concern arises from the context of the current makeup of the U.S. Congress and presidential administration.

“There is concern that any public option or plan is worrisome because this is a federal government that is hostile to our values,” said Schuttloffel.

Despite the fact that there are legitimate concerns about these issues, people need to be careful not to get upset by some spurious things floating through e-mails or placed on Web sites, he said.

“There are a lot of people

Michael Schuttloffel with a lot of different motivations in what they are saying about this legislation,” said Schuttloffel. “People need to research these things, talk to us, talk to their congressman, read these bills, and try to reach well-founded conclusions about these things rather than [buy into] hearsay.”

Our efforts should be directed toward keeping the bills free of pro-abortion language, promoting explicit language prohibiting public funding of abortion, and keeping what protections we have on the state and federal levels.

“Let’s face facts,” said Schuttloffel. “We have a proabortion president, a proabortion Senate leadership, and a pro-abortion House leadership. It’s not even close. These are people for whom abortion has been the centerpiece of their political careers.”

“There likely aren’t going to be any pro-life amendments,” he continued. “It’s hard to imagine that [the final bill] will be a vehicle for any sort pro-life legislation.

It’s just not in the cards.

“What we’re pushing for is preservation of current protections that prevent taxpayer funding of abortion. . . .

We’ve got to dig our heels in and make sure we don’t lose ground through this bill.”

Members of Congress should be reminded that, if they really want health care reform, they should not go down the road of pursing a pro-choice agenda.

“That would be too much to swallow,” said Schuttloffel. “Our pro-life people in Kansas need to send this message to Congress, and do it not. Now is the right time.”

10 NATION

THE LEAVEN • August 14, 2009

Cuban-American confirmed as US ambassador to the Vatican WASHINGTON (CNS) — Catholic theologian Miguel Diaz was confirmed by the U.S. Senate Aug. 4 as the ninth U.S. ambassador to the Vatican. A professor of theology at the College of St. Benedict Briefly in St. Joseph, Minn., and St. John’s University in Collegeville, Minn., Diaz is the first Hispanic to serve in the post. Diaz issued a statement through St. John’s University Aug. 5, saying he was grateful to President Barack Obama “for the confidence he has invested in me” and to the Senate for its vote. “I am honored to be given the responsibility of representing the people of the United States to the Holy See,” he said in the statement posted on the Web site of St. John’s University. “I very much appreciate the support of all those who have reached out to me and to my family with their prayers and best wishes during this process.” He also said he planned to move his family to Rome and present his credentials to Pope Benedict XVI as soon as possible. His wife, Marian, directs Companions on a Journey and CORAD: Heart Speaks to Heart at the College of St. Benedict and St. John’s University.

Cardinal Levada calls on Knights to proclaim God’s word PHOENIX (CNS) — U.S. Cardinal William J. Levada, prefect of the Vatican Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, called upon the Knights of Columbus Aug. 5 to bear witness to the necessity of God in an increasingly secular America.

“Our nation has been blessed with many gifts and resources, and at times that abundance can blind people to our Cardinal William J. utter dependence Levada on God and the need to seek to do his will,” Cardinal Levada said during a homily at the Knights’ 127th annual supreme convention. More than 80 bishops as well as delegates and their families from around world were attending the Aug. 4-6 convention in Phoenix.

The congregation for the Aug. 5 Mass numbered 2,000, and the evening before 2,200 people attended the States Dinner, where Cardinal Francis E. George of Chicago, president of the U.S. bishops’ conference, delivered the keynote address.

In his homily Cardinal Levada encouraged his listeners to work with all people of good will “to improve the lots of others,” and he exhorted them never to lose their Christian character.

THE LEAVEN • AUGUST 14, 2009

Mexican immigration to U.S. has declined by 40 percent

Government apologizes for drug raid during Mass

By Carmen Blanco

Catholic News Service WASHINGTON (CNS) — Mexican immigration to the U.S. has continued to dwindle this year after being down at least 40 percent from 2005 to 2008, according to a July analysis released by the Pew Hispanic Center, a nonpartisan research organization. Despite the decrease, the study shows no increase in the flow of immigrants returning to Mexico.

“There have been sizable decreases in Mexican inflow before but not of this magnitude,” Jeff Passel, senior demographer of the Pew Hispanic Center, told Catholic News Service.

The analysis relied on data from population surveys taken in Mexico and the United States as well as figures from the U.S. Border Patrol.

Passel told CNS, “In the 2002 to 2003 recession, the number of Mexicans entering the U.S. dropped by about 30 percent. We have seen Mexico’s numbers go up and down with the state of the U.S. economy.”

He added that the center has seen inflow decreases among other Latin American immigrants, which also have coincided with the United States’ weakening economic stability.

But if the current financial climate is deterring prospective Mexican immigrants from entering the United States, it is not having a noticeable effect on immigrants residing here.

The study failed to show any increase in Mexican immigrants returning to Mexico and instead showed a steadier level compared to previous years. Numbers taken from Mexico’s National Survey of Employment and Occupation show 433,000 Mexicans immigrants returning to Mexico last year compared to 479,000 in 2006.

Passel offered a possible reason why Mexican immigrants are not returning to their country of origin amid the current economic crisis.

“A significant share of undocumented immigrants in the U.S. are here with their families,” Passel told CNS. “The stereotype of the 18- to 40-year-old lone male entering the U.S. for employment is simply not there. It only accounts for one-fourth of the undocumented population. It may not be as simple to return to Mexico because they also have their families with them.”

By David Agren

Catholic News Service

CNS photo/Dennis Sabanga, pool via Reuters CNS photo/Owen Sweeney III, Catholic Review

STUDENT PREPARES FOR OPENING PROCESSION — Maria Allen, a student at Seton Keough High School in Baltimore, prepares for the opening procession of a Mass marking the 200th anniversary of the foundation of the Sisters of Charity. The Aug. 2 Mass was celebrated at the Basilica of the National Shrine of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in Emmitsburg, Md.

Low confession numbers prompt creative outreach

By Carmen Blanco

Catholic News Service WASHINGTON (CNS) — Statistics show decreasing numbers of Catholics going to confession, but rather than discouraging churches those numbers are only encouraging them to be more creative in their outreach.

A 2008 study conducted by the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate at Georgetown University in Washington revealed three-quarters of Catholics reported they never participate in the sacrament of reconciliation or they do so less than once a year.

The Diocese of Colorado Springs, Colo., has taken an innovative approach to remedy this: Go to where the people are — the shopping mall.

Located on the upper level of the Citadel Mall in Colorado Springs, between the Burlington Coat Factory and Dillard’s department stores, the Catholic Center, which offers Mass and the sacrament of reconciliation, is a place shoppers can find solace away from crowds.

“Some people are hesitant to stop into an organized church, but the Catholic Center offers a ‘no strings attached’ approach,” Msgr. Robert E. Jaeger, vic-

ar general of the diocese, told Catholic News Service in a telephone interview.

“The Capuchins wanted to make contact with those who have fallen away from the church. Visitors to the center are anonymous and can either stop in regularly or just once,” he said.

“People can say, ‘Well, I’ve finished my shopping. I think I’ll stop inside for a moment for myself.’”

Staffed by five Capuchin Franciscans, the Catholic Center at the mall is financially supported and promoted by the Diocese of Colorado Springs, the Capuchin Province of Mid-America and the Knights of Columbus.

The center operates during mall hours, providing information on Catholic charities and parishes. It also houses a Catholic bookstore and a chapel where Mass is celebrated twice a day and confessions are heard from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m.

Many parishes offer confession at specific times. With busy schedules, parishioners may miss that window. But in Illinois, with “24 Hours of Grace,” in which participating parishes are open for a full day and priests hear confessions on a rotating schedule for the 24 hours, time is no longer a valid excuse.”

PEOPLE GATHER DURING AQUINO FUNERAL — Friends, relatives and supporters of the former Philippine President Corazon Aquino flash the “Laban” (fight) sign while singing during her funeral at Manila Memorial Park in Paranaque Aug. 5. Aquino, whose “people power” revolution swept dictator Ferdinand Marcos from power in 1986, died Aug. 1 after a battle with colon cancer. She was 76.

Family, friends praise former Philippine president at funeral MANILA, Philippines (CNS) — The daughter of former Philippine President Corazon Aquino said her mother’s words as she lay dying — “Take care of each other” — were “not meant just for our family.”

Through tears Kris Aquino-Yap delivered her family’s message to more than 2,000 people who attended her mother’s funeral Aug. 5 in the Manila cathedral, reported the Asian church news agency UCA News.

She spoke about her mother’s work after her presidency and highlighted the foundation Aquino set up to finance vocational projects for poor women and scholarships for young people.

Jesuit Father Catalino Arevalo, Aquino’s spiritual director, said it was precisely this concern for the country and its people that inspired Aquino to agree to run against dictator Ferdinand Marcos in the 1986 election.

In his homily for the two-hour Mass, the theologian said the former president offered herself completely to God, to her country and its people, and to her family.

Following the 1983 assassination of her husband, opposition Sen. Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr., she ran against Marcos in a disputed election that spurred the “people power” revolution

that swept her to office. She served as president until 1992.

Father Arevalo had accompanied the Aquinos through their struggles since the 1980s, when they lived in exile in Boston. He was with Aquino during her last days at Makati Medical Center, where she died Aug. 1 at age 76.

He recalled how her faithfulness impressed the late Korean Cardinal Stephen Kim Sou-hwan during his visit to Manila when she was president.

“She is pure of heart, with no desire for power,” the Jesuit quoted Cardinal Kim telling him after a 45-minute meeting with the president.

He said the tributes people paid her following her death showed that her sacrifices and service did not go unappreciated.

Outside the cathedral, thousands more mourners stood in the raindrenched grounds on a day the government declared a national holiday in honor of Aquino.

Throngs of people lined the streets or walked behind the hearse as it took the coffin to Manila Memorial Park, where she was to be buried next to her husband.

“Cory! Cory!” they chanted, in scenes reminiscent of her presidential campaigns. The streets were a sea of yellow T-shirts and confetti; yellow came to symbolize “people power.”

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MEXICO CITY (CNS) — The Mexican government apologized after federal police burst into a parish and interrupted Mass in the western state of Michoacan to apprehend a drug-cartel suspect.

A statement from the Secretariat of Public Security apologized to the Mexican bishops’ conference, Bishop Miguel Patino Velazquez of Apatzingan, and the faithful “for the circumstances in which the operation had to be carried out.” The statement said that the raid in an Apatzingan parish was undertaken to avoid gunfire and a “violent incident.”

The Aug. 1 raid resulted in the arrests of 33 alleged members of a cartel known as a La Familia Michoacana and the seizure of cash, weapons, fragment grenades and luxury vehicles. The detainees include Miguel Beraza Villa — known as “La Troca” (the Truck) — a cartel lieutenant that Mexican and U.S. authorities allege was responsible for transporting tractor-trailers full of synthetic drugs such as “ice” and “crystal” from the cartel’s clandestine laboratories to the United States via Tijuana, Mexico.

The bishops’ conference had criticized the raid as a show of disrespect for the sanctity of Mass.

The Aug. 1 raid marked the first time that police officers have burst into a parish to arrest suspects linked to organized crime, said Father Mateo Calvillo Paz, spokesman for the Archdiocese of Morelia, which is in Michoacan.

The raid also highlighted the increasing vulnerability of church officials and the faithful of being caught up — inadvertently or not — in the ongoing federal crackdown on drug cartels.

The raid continued a high-profile crackdown on drug traffickers in President Felipe Calderon’s home state, where some 5,500 federal police and soldiers have been dispatched to fight organized crime. By the end of July, violence from organized crime had claimed more than 250 lives in Michoacan and more than 3,500 lives nationwide, according to the newspaper Reforma.

WORLD 11

Honduran bishop says wealthy behind ouster of president EUGENE, Oregon (CNS) — A Catholic bishop in western Honduras said members of the country’s wealthy elite were behind the ouster of President Manuel Zelaya. Bishop Luis Santos Villeda of Santa Rosa de Copan also said the country needs a dialogue between the elite and Honduras’ poor and workingclass citizens. “Some say Manuel Zelaya threatened democracy by proposing a constitutional assembly. But the poor of Honduras know that Zelaya raised the minimum salary. That’s what they understand. They know he defended the poor by sharing money with mayors and small towns. That’s why they are out in the streets closing highways and protesting [to demand Zelaya’s return],” the bishop told Catholic News Service. In a July 30 telephone interview, he said it is misleading to consider Honduras a democracy, either before or after the June 28 coup.

“There has never been a real democracy in Honduras. All we have is an electoral system where the people get to choose candidates imposed from above. The people don’t really have representation, whether in the Congress or the Supreme Court, which are all chosen by the rich.

We’re the most corrupt country in Central America, and we can’t talk about real democracy because the people don’t participate in the decisions,” he said.

Turkish government denies request for church in Tarsus VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Despite a personal request from Pope Benedict XVI and repeated requests by Christian leaders in Turkey, the Turkish government has decided that the only church in Tarsus, the city of St. Paul’s birth, will remain a government museum. The Church of St. Paul, built as a Catholic church in the 1800s and confiscated by the government in 1943, was used throughout the 20082009 year of St. Paul for prayer services

by Christian pilgrims. After the end of the yearlong celebration commemorating the 2,000th anniversary of St. Paul’s birth, the Turkish government decided the building could not be used exclusively for worship. Bishop Luigi Padovese, the apostolic vicar for Anatolia and president of the Catholic bishops’ conference of Turkey, told the Vatican newspaper L’Osservatore Romano Aug. 1 that the government decided to return to the practice of allowing Christians to pray in the church as long as they made reservations three days in advance and bought an admission ticket.

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Piano and voice lessons - Available for the fall. Instructor teaches in a fun and meaningful context. Ages 3 years and up for piano; 10 years and up for voice. For information, call (913) 206-2151 or send an e-mail to: MamuricK@hawks.rockhurst.edu.

Quality piano lessons - Caring and motivating teacher with 11 years experience. Seeking students between the ages of 2nd - 12th grade. South Johnson County area. Call (913) 338-3022.

Grass Hearts Lawn Care We put the love in lawn care!

Serving the Johnson County area For a free estimate, call (913) 980-5058 or e-mail: grassheartslawncare@yahoo.com.

Summer is here! - I do mowing, landscaping, walls, decks, patios, and winter cleanups. Call Josh at (913) 7097230. Southern Johnson County.

All Lawn Services/Mowing/ Fertilizing Most city-sized lots $25-30 Call for a free estimate.

Family-owned by local parishioners.

Lic/Bond/Ins. References. (913) 620-6063

THE LEAVEN • AUGUST 14, 2009

THE LEAVEN • August 14, 2009 Tree Service - Pruning ornamental trees for optimal growth and beauty and removal of hazardous limbs or problem trees. Free consultation and bid. Safe, insured, professional. Brad Grabs, Green Solutions of KC, (913) 244-5838. www.Green SolutionsKC.com.

Foley’s Lawn Care 2009 Season Weekly mowing & landscape maintenance!

Call now for your FREE estimate!

(913) 825-4353 Serving Johnson County Commercial and residential

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

Wedding decorations - Relax, I decorate for church, receptions, anniversaries and parties. Includes cleanup. Free consultation. References. Greater KC area.

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

Granite, Cambria and Silestone countertops - See our new showroom at 5820 Barton, in the heart of beautiful downtown Shawnee. Call The Top Shop, Inc., at (816) 8988685 or (913) 962-5058.

Home care services - We provide care management, medication administration, transportation, companionship, shopping and other needs to the elderly and disabled at home. Reasonable rates. Full or part time. Days/nights/ weekends. Call Pamerick Home Health Care and speak with Mimi (913) 488-5993.

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

Do you or your parents need help at home? - For as little as $60 per week, Benefits of Home-Senior Care can provide assistance with personal care, shopping and many other daily needs. For details, visit our Web site at: benefitsofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591.

Caregiver - Certified CNA with over 40 years of hospital and home-care experience will care for your loved one in the WyCo area. References available; reasonable rates. Full or part time; days/nights/ weekends. Call Dorles at (913) 371-2970.

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

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

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.

Home Improvement Housepainting, powerwashing, rotted window sills repaired - Quality products. 20 years experience. References. Call (913) 341-7584.

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

Roofing - Will honor insurance companies’ proposals.

20 years experience. Call (913) 341-7584 (office) or (913) 206-4524 (cell).

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.

Stained glass - Custom-made side-light door panels. Fit over your existing window. Privacy, beauty, insulative. No need for blinds or curtains. JoCo only. Call Ed at (913) 648-0099.

Custom-kitchen countertops - Laminate tops manufactured and installed within 5 days. Competitive prices,

dependable work. St. Joseph Parish member. Call The Top Shop, Inc., at (816) 898-8685 or (913) 962-5058.

House painting - Interior and exterior; wallpaper removal. 20 years experience. Reasonable rates. References.

Call Joe at (913) 620-5776.

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

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.

Organizing & handyman services - Basements, garages, attics and shop spaces organized! Your items sorted, boxed & labeled; areas cleaned when finished! Wall repair, interior painting, tile work, handicap bars and ramps. Great references and insured. For pictures of current projects, view my Web site at: www. swalms.com. Call Tillar Swalm at (913) 375-9115.

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@hot mail.com. Member of Holy Trinity Church, Lenexa.

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

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

Vacation condo - Marco Island, Fla. 2 BR, 2 BA. Perfect weather! To view, visit the Web site at: www. marcocondoforrent.com, or call (913) 544-1288.

Fabulous Bahamas vacation - The Ocean at Taino Beach, Freeport. Fabulous gold crown level accommodations with full kitchen, 1 BR, living room. Sleeps 4 people max. Available 9/26 - 10/3. $700 for 7 days, OBO. Call Tati at (913) 541-0687.

Child care Parent’s Day Out - Holy Trinity Early Education Center, Lenexa, has openings for 2-1/2-year-olds. The program is offered Tues., Wed., or Thurs., from 8:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. For information or to schedule a visit, call (913) 492-7380.

Day care available - Small, in-home day care, near 146th and Black Bob, Olathe, has part-time openings for MW-F for children ages 0-3 yrs. Over 9 years of experience and excellent references. Member, Prince of Peace Parish. Call Katie at (913) 768-9514.

Nanny needed - Curé of Ars family is seeking a part-time nanny to care for our 2 small boys in our home. Mon/Tues. or Tues./Wed., from 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. If interested, call Gretchen at (913) 209-9115.

Real Estate Leawood home for sale - 3331 W. 92nd Terr. 4 BR, 2-1/2 BA, huge family room, beautiful hardwood floors and a large yard. Within walking distance of Curé of Ars Parish. Call David, ReMax Premier, at (816) 591-3186, or visit the Web site at: www.costellorealestate.com.

Day care available - Small, in-home day care has full-time openings for ages newborn to 3 years. Located near 123rd and State Line in Leawood. Over 18 years of experience and excellent references. Member of Nativity Parish. Call Carolyn at (913) 226-6913.

Family home - Two blocks from Holy Spirit Church, Overland Park. View online at: www.fsbo-kc.com. Go to ID# 5723, or call April Newton at (913) 894-2012 or (913) 4862068 (cell).

Wanted to buy

Kansas land - Have land to sell? Contact us about our free listing service. Marisa Morgan Dallman, owner-broker, Kansas Land Brokers, LLC. Call (913) 915-9151 or visit the Web site at: www.KansasLandBrokers.com.

Lake house – Beautiful and private Lake Kahola, less than 2 hours from the KC area. Only 10 miles off I-35 at Emporia exit. This home sleeps 10+ with a 2-car garage, plus a private boat ramp and dock. Located at the water’s edge on a quiet cove. Call Cy at (316) 262-0888.

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

EHO. Handicap accessible.

Affordable housing in Rockford Hills - 8208 Troost. 1 and 2 BR, 1 BA. $450-550/month. Available units with central air, off-street parking and spacious rooms. Contact (816) 756-5002 or (816) 674-6176. Hablamos español.

Beautiful, spacious apartments in Westside - 2 BR, 1 BA units. $600/month. This house has a beautiful porch and large bedrooms. Deposit is only $200. Contact (816) 756-5002 or (816) 674-6176. Hablamos español.

Vacation Mountain cabin in Winter Park, Colo. – 2 BR, 1 BA. View of Continental Divide from deck. Close to points of interest and activities. $95/night. Call (913) 642-3027. Visit the Web site at: cabin.forcadeassociates.com.

A memorial liturgy for deceased loved ones will be held at 8 a.m. on Aug. 15 at Curé of Ars Church, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood. The bereavement ministry will have its monthly meeting in the Father Burak Room following Mass. The topic will be “Laughter and Tears During Grief.” For information, call (913) 649-2026.

The Knights of Columbus, Council No. 2332, Shawnee, will host their annual family summer picnic from noon until dark on Aug. 30 at their park, located at Shawnee Mission Pkwy. and Midland Drive. The public is invited to attend. There is no admission fee. Food, fun and a variety of drinks will be available for sale. For information, call (913) 248-8278.

Summer vacation - Winter Park, Colo. 2 BR, 1 BA, sleeps six. Fully furnished, fireplace, rec center w/pool, fishing, golf, hiking, rafting, close to nat’l park. $100/night; $600/week. Call Joe at (913) 385-5589.

Montessori and child care - Our Lady’s Montessori serves children, ages 1 - 6 years old, in a beautiful environment. Conveniently located and affordable. For information, contact Sister Mediatrix at (913) 403-9550 or visit the Web site at: www.ourladysmontessori.com.

Strawberry Hill bungalow - 1 BR, 1 BA. Many closets and cabinets and lots of charm! Large, fenced yard; offstreet parking. $40,000. For appt. to view, call (913) 3710850 or (913) 302-3669.

Aug.

A Virtus session taught in Spanish will be offered at 10 a.m. on Aug. 29 at All Saints Parish, 811 Vermont Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 371-8101, (913) 371-1837 or visit the Web site at: www.virtusonline.com.

*** BUYING *** Coins — Sterling — Watches I buy coins, old watches, sterling silverware, postcards, photographs, military items, political campaign pins, Zippo lighters, fountain pens, toys, slot machines, old signs & tins, quilts, Indian rugs, beadwork, baskets, pottery and 22-gauge rifles. Call Chris at (913) 593-7507 or (913) 642-8269. *** Wanted to Buy *** Antique and vintage costume jewelry Member St. Joseph Parish Renee Maderak (913) 631-7179

For sale Bulk mulch - $35 per cu. yd. delivered (within our delivery area with a 2-yard minimum order) OR $70 per cu. yd. delivered and spread. Contact Joe Keehn at (913) 631-7217 or (913) 449-9848 or visit the Web site at: www.mokanmulch. com.

For sale - Double-depth plot, including vaults, at the Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Kansas City, Kan. Priced under current value. Call Cyndy at (913) 548-2356.

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

To purchase a classified

Send an e-mail to: jennifer@the leaven.com, or call (913) 647-0327. The cost is $16 per column inch, five lines or less. Each additional line is $1.50. Classified ads will also be posted online at The Leaven’s Web site: www.theleaven.com.

15

The archdiocesan monthly pro-life Mass will be held at 8 a.m. on Aug. 15 at Sts. Cyril & Methodius Church, 44 N. Mill, Kansas City, Kan., followed by a rosary procession to an abortion clinic four blocks away. Eucharistic adoration is available for those not processing; Benediction concludes services at 10 a.m.

St. John the Baptist Church (on Strawberry Hill), 708 N. 4th St., Kansas City, Kan., will host its annual parish festival on the parish grounds on Aug. 15, following the 4 p.m. Mass. Povitica, apple strudel, salami, and traditional Croatian foods will be available. There will be children’s games, live music and a polka dance. For information, contact the parish office at (913) 371-0627.

30

St. Columbkille Parish, Blaine, will host its annual hog roast dinner on Aug. 22, following the 4 p.m. Mass. There will also be beef available for non-pork eaters.

The cost is $7 for adults; $4 for children ages 6 - 12; children under five eat free.

There will be bingo, a moonwalk, games, crafts, baked goods and more.

The Johnson County Unos will gather for the 4:30 p.m. Mass on June 30 at St. Pius X Church, 5601 Woodson, Mission. Dinner will follow at Leona Yarbrough’s Restaurant, 11900 Shawnee Mission Pkwy., Shawnee. For information, call (913) 248-0500.

Christ the King Parish, 3024 N. 53rd St., Kansas City, Kan., will host an ice cream social from 6 - 11 p.m. on Aug. 22. Dinner, and cake and ice cream, will be served.

There will also be a variety of games and a raffle.

25

“Dress for Success on a Budget” will be offered from 2 - 3 p.m. on Aug. 25 at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. Learn how to build a basic wardrobe that matches your life and body style. Reservations are required. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/kwc.

16

Immaculate Conception Church, St. Marys, will host a parish picnic and reunion on Aug. 16. A chicken dinner with all the trimmings will be served from 4-7 p.m. There will be bingo, children’s games and rides, and a raffle beginning at 5 p.m. For information or tickets, call the parish office at (785) 437-2408.

17

The Keeler Women’s Center will begin a weekly support group for women who have been released from incarceration, entitled “Living Free: Re-enter and Re-start,” from 1 - 2 p.m. on Mondays, beginning Aug. 17, at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/kwc.

20

A healing Mass, sponsored by archdiocesan charismatic prayer groups, will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Aug. 20 at Curé of Ars Church, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood. Father Anthony Kiplagat will preside; fellowship follows.

21-23

The Bishop Miege High School class of 1959 will host its 50th reunion during the weekend of Aug. 21 - 23.

For information, contact Paul Lavery at (913) 484-3664 or send an e-mail to him at: prlsr@everestkc.net; or contact Linda (Spurck) Wilcher at (913) 909-4126 or send an e-mail to her at: dawilch@sbcglobal.net.

22

The ACCW (Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women) will host its quarterly meeting from 1 - 3 p.m. on Aug. 22 at St. Patrick Church, 1086 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kan. All women of the archdiocese are invited to attend. For information, contact Terry Beth Lewerenz at (913) 491-5149 or send an e-mail to: tlewerenz@kc.rr.com.

27

The Atchison area Catholic women will meet at 7:30 p.m. on Aug. 27 at the ACES old gym. Carol Lintner, owner of Kathryn’s for Tea, will do a short presentation. For information or to RSVP, call Susan at (913) 367-2227.

31

The Irish Museum and Cultural Center, located in Union Station in Kansas City, Mo., will host its Irish classic golf tournament on Aug. 31 at The Deuce at the National Golf Club, 6415 N. National Dr., Kansas City, Mo. This 18-hole tournament will be a four-person scramble format. The entry fee includes green fees, cart, beer and soft drinks on the course, a box lunch and after-play appetizers! To participate or become a sponsor, contact The Irish Museum and Cultural Center at (816) 474-3848 or send an e-mail to: info@irish museum.org.

Sept.

4

The Johnson County Unos will hold their monthly meeting and potluck dinner at 6 p.m. on Sept. 5 at St. Pius X Church, 5601 Woodson, Mission. Bring meat casseroles, salads, vegetables or desserts — enough to feed 8 — or $5 to pay for your meal.

“Heart Healthy Eating,” a nutrition presentation, will be offered in partnership with K-State Extension Services from 9:30 - 11 a.m. on Aug. 27 at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/kwc.

A concert for global peace — featuring recording artist and composer Nenad Bach and internationally recognized musicians from UMKC including Don Lipovac — will be held from 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. on Aug. 29 in the Rose Theater at Rockhurst High School, 9301 State Line Rd., Kansas City, Mo. Tickets may be purchased at the UMKC ticket box office.

St. Joseph of the Valley and St. Lawrence parishes, Leavenworth, will host a family “Night at the Drive-in” on Aug. 29 on the lawn of St. Joseph of the Valley Church, 31151 207th St., following the 6:30 p.m. Mass. The featured movie will be “Night at the Museum.” Concessions will be available. A $10 donation for parking is appreciated. Bring lawn chairs and blankets.

For information, call (913) 682-1285.

$20 for steak; $10 for hamburger. Tickets must be purchased in advance from the development office, 320 Broadway; at Immaculata High School, 600 Shawnee; or you may call Lisa at (913) 683-3934.

Misc.

The Ladies Guild at St. Joseph Church, 11311 Johnson Dr., Shawnee, is seeking vendors for its gift and craft bazaar to be held on Oct. 24 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tables cost $30 each; $35 if electricity is needed. There are 50 tables available, so reserve early. For information, contact Shannon Foley at (913) 302-8505, or send an e-mail to: shannon@adafundraising. com; or contact Connie Davidson at (913) 631-7757, or send an e-mail to: abuabu7@ aol.com.

Were you injured while on active duty in the military? Do you have combat-related nightmares or are you bothered by memories of combat? A “veterans helping veterans” support group is forming in this area. If you are in need of help, or are available to help, call John at (913) 909-3368.

Join us this fall for an interparish Catholic Women’s Bible Study of salvation history from Adam to Jesus, the Book of James and the study of Christ’s passion. Women of all ages are welcome to study God’s word together and enjoy fellowship about how God’s word impacts your life. Children are welcome to attend. While the women are studying God’s word, children ages 3-12 will be taught the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program. Children younger than 3 years old can either accompany their mothers in a Moms study group or stay in our nursery. The groups will meet on Thursday mornings from 9:30 - 11 a.m. for 26 weeks, beginning Sept. 10, at Holy Trinity Church, 9150 Pflumm Rd., Lenexa.

For information or to register, contact Laura Haeusser at (913) 341-9057; or Kathryn Burditt at (913) 451-3680 or, via e-mail, at: tkburditt @hotmail.com.

Individual and family counseling is available in English and Spanish at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. Counseling is offered in partnership with Catholic Charities; the fee is based on a sliding scale and is very affordable. Free child care is provided during some time periods. To schedule an appointment, call (913) 906-8990.

29

The archdiocesan education office and the Perfect Wings program will sponsor a eucharistic celebration for children with special needs and their families at 10 a.m. on Aug. 29 at Savior Pastoral Center, 12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kan. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann will be the celebrant. There will be a reception following Mass. For information, call the education office at (913) 721-1570.

CALENDAR 13

6

Sts. Peter and Paul Parish, 411 Pioneer St., Seneca, will host a parish picnic on Sept. 6. A roast beef and ham dinner will be served, beginning at 4:30 p.m. in the new parish hall. The cost is $7 for adults; $4 for children. Carryout meals will be available. Bingo, concessions, games, a beer garden, and a teen dance will follow dinner.

A live auction will begin at 8:30 p.m.

12

“Bow Ties for Babies Gala,” a benefit for Alexandra’s House, a charitable perinatal hospice for terminally ill unborn, newborn and abandoned babies, will be held on Sept. 12 at the downtown Kansas City Marriott Hotel. For information, call (816) 931-5378 or send an e-mail to: alexandrashouse@mac.com.

The Immaculata Booster Club will host a steak or hamburger dinner from 5:30 - 8 p.m. on Sept. 12 at the Knights of Columbus Hall, Leavenworth. The cost is

For those struggling with an addiction to pornography, Sam Meier, MA, LPC, provides counseling and men’s groups for sexual integrity. Call (913) 647-0378, or send an e-mail to: mhmg@archkck.org.

Women, contact Beth Meier for information on groups for spouses and loved ones at (913) 647-0379, or send an e-mail to: bmeier@archkck.org. Support is confidential and from a Catholic perspective. To listen to live testimonials, visit the Web site at; www.archkck.org/myhouse.

The Singles of Nativity will gather for round-robin-style tennis beginning at 6 p.m. at the Indian Creek Recreational Center, 103rd St. and Marty, Overland Park, on Sundays throughout the summer. Beginners are welcome; there is room for everyone. We may go out for a light dinner afterwards, because the idea is to share friendship. For information, send an e-mail to Nancy Driscoll at: ndriscoll1@kc.rr.com.

Calendar items must be received nine days before the publication date. Email submissions are preferred; send to: jennifer@the leaven. com.

14 COMMENTARY

THE LEAVEN • august 14, 2009

Mark my words

Quote Week

of the

“Much-needed reform must not become a vehicle for promoting an ‘abortion rights’ agenda or reversing longstanding current policies against federal abortion mandates and funding.”

Cardinal Justin Rigali of Philadelphia, chairman of the U.S. bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities

Scripture Readings TWENTIETH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Aug. 16 Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time Prv 9: 1-6; Ps 34: 2-3, 10-15; Eph 5: 15-20; Jn 6: 51-58 Aug. 17 Monday Jgs 2: 11-19; Ps 106: 34-37, 39-40, 43-44; Mt 19: 16-22 Aug. 18 Tuesday Jgs 6: 11-24a; Ps 85: 9, 11-14; Mt 19: 23-30

Smarter than a fifth-grader in your faith?

“C

an you imagine the nun sitting at her desk grading these papers, all the while trying to keep a straight face and maintain her composure!”

When an e-mail starts like this, you can immediately presume: 1) it’s going to be from an anonymous source; 2) it will most likely be fictional; 3) you will at least chuckle at its contents.

I found all of the above to be true in the case of these answers that Catholic grade school children supposedly wrote to questions about the Old and New Testaments. The entries appear in all their misspelled glory. Since there were a slew of them, here is a sampling: • Adam and Eve were created from an apple tree. Noah’s wife was Joan of Ark. Noah built and ark and the animals came on in pears.

• Lots wife was a pillar of salt during the day, but a ball of fire during the night.

• Samson slayed the Philistines with the Axe of the Apostles.

• Moses led the Jews to the Red Sea where they made unleavened bread which is bread without any ingredients.

• The Egyptians were all drowned in the dessert. Afterwards, Moses went up to Mount Cyanide to get the Ten Commandments.

• The First Commandments was when Eve told Adam to eat the apple.

• Moses died before he ever reached

Canada, then Joshua led the Hebrews in the Battle of Geritol.

• David was a Hebrew king who was skilled at playing the liar. He fought the Finkelsteins, a race of people who lived in biblical times.

• Solomon, one of David’s sons, had 300 wives and 700 porcupines.

•When Mary heard she was the mother of Jesus, she sang the Magna Carta.

• Jesus enunciated the Golden Rule, which says to do unto others before they do one to you. He also explained a man doth not live by sweat alone.

• The people who followed the Lord were called the 12 Decibels.

• St. Paul cavorted to Christianity.

He preached holy acrimony, which is another name for marriage.

Well, I’m sure that at least a few of these made you smile and maybe even laugh out loud. My point in reprinting them is simply to get all of us back into “school mode.” A good number of students have already left for college, others have already started their new academic year, and many more are getting ready to do so in the upcoming days.

This time of year can be an incentive for us adults to commit ourselves to furthering our education, particularly

regarding our faith — not only to give support and encouragement to the students we know, but especially to grow in our knowledge and love of God. Although we may be amused by the children’s answers above, how comfortable would we be when asked, for example, to name the three theological virtues, the four cardinal virtues, the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit, or the spiritual and corporal works of mercy?

If we were asked to make a list of the Beatitudes, could we do it? Would we even know where to find them in the Bible? Could we name all the mysteries of the rosary, including the mysteries of light? (Are you thinking, “What mysteries of light?”) If we’re honest, we all have a lot to learn about the basics of our faith, about the Scriptures, about prayer, about living out our faith in our day-to-day lives.

If you’d like to jump-start your spiritual (re)education, an easy way to do so is with a book, published last year by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, called “Essentials for Christian Living.” It covers Catholic prayer, doctrine, the creed, the sacraments and the Ten Commandments. It’s a smart buy at just $6.95 and, although 127 pages long, its size is compact and there’s lots of white space on the pages.

In other words, it’s informative without being intimidating.

And wouldn’t it be nice to be “smarter than a fifth-grader” in your faith and be able to answer confidently that there’s no truth to the claim that “the epistels were the wives of the apostles.”

Aug. 19 John Eudes, priest Jgs 9: 6-15; Ps 21: 2-7; Mt 20: 1-16a Aug. 20 Bernard, abbot, doctor of the church Jgs 11: 29-39a; Ps 40: 5, 7-10; Mt 22: 1-14 Aug. 21 Pius X, pope Ru 1: 1, 3-6, 14b-16, 22; Ps 146: 5-10; Mt 22: 34-40 Aug. 22 The Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ru 2: 1-3, 8-11; 4: 13-17; Ps 128: 1-5; Mt 23: 1-12 TWENTY-FIRST WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Aug. 23 Twenty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time Jos 24: 1-2a, 15-17, 18b; Ps 34: 2-3, 16-23; Eph 5: 21-32; Jn 6: 60-69 Aug. 24 BARTHOLOMEW, APOSTLE Rv 21: 9b-14; Ps 145: 10-13b, 17-18; Jn 1: 45-51 Aug. 25 Louis of France; Joseph Calasanz, priest 1 Thes 2: 1-8; Ps 139: 1-3, 4-6; Mt 23: 23-26 Aug. 26 Wednesday 1 Thes 2: 9-13; Ps 139: 7-12; Mt 23: 27-32 Aug. 27 Monica 1 Thes 3: 7-13; Ps 90: 3-4, 12-14, 17; Mt 24: 42-51 Aug. 28 Augustine, bishop, doctor of the church 1 Thes 4: 1-8; Ps 97: 1-2, 5-6, 10-12; Mt 25: 1-13 Aug. 29 The Martyrdom of John the Baptist 1 Thes 4: 9-11; Ps 98: 1, 7-9; Mk 6: 17-29

the gospel truth

Jesus both nourishes us now and brings us life eternally

W

hile I like my food to be fresh, I draw the line at having it still alive.

That is why I balk at oysters on the half shell. The thought of a living creature sliding down my throat does not from material once part of a living sound appetizing. I suppose that I am plant: wheat kernels ground into flour. too much a Midwesterner. I do not relish the idea of eating anything still liv- But once baked, the bread is far from alive. (We face a similarly probleming. atic metaphor in 1 Pt 2:4, which calls And yet, in Sunday’s Gospel reading, Jesus a “living stone.”) We Jn 6:51-58, Jesus proclaims, Twentieth Sunday in can only make sense of this “I am the living bread.” We Ordinary Time metaphor if we divide it into should note that earlier in Jn 6: 51-58 those two parts: bread and the Gospel, in the readings living. that we heard the last two Jesus is bread in the sense that he Sundays, Jesus identified himself as nourishes our spirits. He is substantial the bread come down from heaven and and tangible and solid, something we as the bread of life. These statements can grab hold of. He is bread in the of Jesus all share the common element sense that he comes to us under the apof bread, but they still differ slightly. By pearance of bread in the Eucharist. calling himself the living bread, Jesus Secondly, Jesus is living in the sense takes them one step further. Actually, that he shares intimate communion it may look like a giant leap — one that with God the Father. He enjoys a depth takes an act of faith on our part. of life which we describe as eternal life Why does Jesus identify himself as when we experience it. Compared to it, the living bread? Taken as a whole, the our ordinary life looks like death. Jesus metaphor does not make sense. Bread is living and he wants us also to live, does not live. Admittedly, it is made

in a way beyond our ordinary, physical lives as human beings.

Sunday’s Gospel reading makes that abundantly clear. It repeatedly offers life to us: “Whoever eats this bread will live forever. . . . The bread I will give is my flesh for the life of the world. . . . Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life.”

The various forms of the noun “life” or the verb “live” occur nine times in our Gospel reading. This frequent occurrence reflects the emphasis throughout John’s Gospel upon life, upon living. The word “life” appears 49 times in John’s Gospel, compared to 10 times in Mark’s Gospel, 17 times in Luke’s Gospel, and 15 times in Matthew’s Gospel. The theme of life dominates John’s Gospel in a way altogether lacking in the other Gospels.

It is because Jesus is “living” that he can give us life, even eternal life.

When we eat the consecrated bread of the Eucharist, when we receive Jesus, we receive the bread of life, the “living bread.”

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

16 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • August 14, 2009

Holy Spirit School opens the beach for summer reading OVERLAND PARK — One day, a fourth-grade girl asked her teacher, “Mrs. Bustillo, is the library going to stay open for the rest of the summer?”

And it was at that moment that Cayleigh Bustillo knew that all the planning and hard work had been well worth the effort. The new summer library program had made a difference — at least to one student With a smile on her face, Bustillo she replied, “No, I’m sorry, sweetie, but we’ve got to close it down to get it ready before school starts.”

It’s not often that you find kids wanting to go to the school library during the summer. But at Holy Spirit School in Overland Park, it was a different story.

Bustillo, the school’s reading and research skills teacher, third-grade teacher Peg Jaworski, and fourth-grade teacher Jane Sullivan spent months dreaming up ways to attract students to the school’s library for the summer. The end result was to be a place where children and their parents would be able to come and enjoy silent reading with others from the school community.

While there, students would also be able to borrow books, receive reading help from teacher volunteers, and take Accelerated Reader tests — “AR’s,” as the kids liked to call them — which earned them points toward an ice cream party.

The incentive did not stop there, though.

After receiving the enthusiastic approval of school principal Michele Wat-

son, it was decided that the library itself would take on a new shape. From June 24 through July 29, the library was transformed into a beach scene, where students were able to dive into terrific books while relaxing under tiki huts.

The children of Holy Spirit were overjoyed when they entered the library this summer to find tables converted to huts, carpets covered in beach towels and circle time transformed into a wading pool.

One high school sibling even remarked, “It’s always better to read under a table than at home.”

The teachers couldn’t have been happier when they saw family after family pouring into the library every Wednesday to attend the reading party.

On more than one occasion, their efforts were commended by school parents who made comments like: “Thank you so much. This is such a treat,” and “I have never seen him so excited to read. I bet he read five books today just to make sure that he had enough points for that ice cream party.”

Each Wednesday, in fact, the library staff saw more than 40 youngsters flock to the beach. When asked for her thoughts on the new summer fun, fifthgrader Liz Wenkel responded simply: “It’s awesome!”

With endorsements like that and participation exceeding expectations, you can be sure to find a beach where the library once was for many summers to come.

Cayleigh Bustillo, reading and research skills teacher at Holy Spirit, joins fifth-graders (from top left) Liz Wenkel, Jessica Love, and Sam Rose for some reading on the beach. The Holy Spirit library was transformed into a beach over the summer to encourage reading.

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