10-22-10 Vol. 32 No. 12 by The Leaven

www.theleaven.com | Newspaper of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas | Vol. 32, No. 12 october 22, 2010

Team ®

TurnStyles team looks for hidden treasure amid thousands of donations

Story and photos By Jill Ragar Esfeld

oly Spirit, Overland Park, parishioner Tom White is a stalker. But not to worry. As a volunteer at TurnStyles, the thrift store of Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas in Overland Park, he’s supposed to be on the hunt for donated items that prove the old adage: “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” As a member of its elite eBay team, in fact, he’s been trained to recycle that donated “trash” into the “treasure” that will keep Catholic Charities programs rolling — with a little help from cyberspace shoppers. Not too long ago, for example, White’s eyes Be a part kept falling on an odd of the team piece of office equipWould you like ment in the furniture to learn how to section of the thrift sell items on eBay? store. TurnStyles, the “It looked like an thrift store benefitold adding machine or ing Catholic Charisomething,” he said. ties of Northeast “They had $3 marked Kansas, needs on it.” volunteers willing The $3 item sat on to give four hours display for a couple per week to list/ of weeks, but nobody sell items on eBay. bought it. No experience is Finally, White’s curequired except the riosity got the best of ability to keystroke. him. Come and learn “I thought, ‘I’ll see how to eBay by what this thing is,’” he contacting Mary said. “I went to the InKay Drees at (914) ternet and checked it 433-2080 or by out.” e-mail at: mdrees@ White was shocked catholiccharitiesks. at what he found. org. The old adding machine was actually one of the first Hollerith punch card machines, built under contract for the U.S. Census Bureau to calculate the 1890 census. Jackpot! White posted the item online at the TurnStyles eBay store. It was purchased by a California museum for $300. “I’ve had higher sales,” White confessed. “But that was the most satisfying because I salvaged a piece of history.” Turn to “thrift store” on page 16

Church of the Nativity, Overland Park, parishioner, Pat Urnise (left) listens as team leader Ronald Behm discusses product placement on the TurnStyles eBay site. Members work in teams of three on one afternoon each week.

St. Joseph, Shawnee, parishioner Dennis Koozeniewski (left), a TurnStyles thrift store volunteer, gets a quick lesson in identifying valuable dishware from eBay team leader Ronald Behm.

2 archbishop

THE LEAVEN • october 22, 2010

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS

The historical Jesus continues to live today

am still in the Holy Land with other pilgrims of the Equestrian Order of the Knights and Ladies of the Holy Sepulcher. Last week, I wrote that the mission of the Holy Sepulcher — preserving and keeping open the access for Christians of the shrines in the Holy Land — is important because we believe in the historical Jesus. In other words, Jesus was a real person who actually walked this earth, giving special significance to the places where the important events of his life occurred. However, we do not just believe in the historical Jesus. We do not believe that Jesus was simply like other great historical figures — Alexander the Great, Julius or Augustus Caesar, Charlemagne, Napoleon, George Washington or Abraham Lincoln — whose memories we remember and, in some cases, revere. Many years ago, I read a book about Jesus by Malcolm Muggeridge. Muggeridge was a very well known and popular British Broadcasting Company (BBC) personality. Many American Catholics first became acquainted with Muggeridge through his television documentary that subsequently became a book, “Something Beautiful for God.” It was Muggeridge’s book that catapulted Mother Teresa of Calcutta onto the international scene and made her an icon of what is best in humanity. At the time he met Mother Teresa, Muggeridge was a self-declared agnos-

tic who had been assigned the task of producing and narrating a documentary about a nun in Calcutta who had evidently caught someone in the BBC’s attention for her work with the poor. He was totally captivated by Mother Teresa. After his documentary about Mother Teresa, Muggeridge became a believer in Jesus. Many years later, largely because of her influence, Muggeridge would become a Catholic. At some point during this conversion process, the BBC asked Muggeridge to do a several part documentary on the life of Jesus. Muggeridge quite naturally took his crew to the Holy Land to film the sites where Jesus lived. Logically, he decided to begin shooting in Bethlehem, where Muggeridge describes experiencing what he termed an “illumination” at the Church of the Nativity. They began filming in the fields outside of Bethlehem where they encountered a shepherd with a sheep draped over his shoulder — very much like you might see featured on many Christmas cards. The crew prepared to begin shooting when the shepherd threw down the sheep to haggle over his fee. After settling what he called this “unseemly transaction,” Muggeridge and

his entourage proceeded to the Church of the Nativity. He described the difficulty of getting into the church because of the press of those hawking postcards, rosaries and other souvenirs. Once inside, Muggeridge positioned himself on a ledge in the crypt that commemorates the actual location revered as the place of Jesus’ birth. Muggeridge sat in the shadows cast by the candles which provided the only illumination in the area. He was not impressed by the way the crypt was adorned. He described it as tawdry and garish. Muggeridge then noticed the people in the church whom he described as “standard pursuers of happiness for whom the Church of the Nativity was just an item on a sightseeing tour.” He was disillusioned by all that he saw. Then, Muggeridge began to notice the faces of the people that seemed somehow transfigured as they reflected on what happened at that very place. He observed how despite the rather chaotic surroundings, so many of the people began to be absorbed in what appeared to be very intense and sincere prayer. He realized they were not just visiting a historic place and recalling what had happened, they were actually entering into communion with the One born there. It was from this experience that Muggeridge entitled his documentary and subsequent book, “Jesus: The Man Who Lives.” He realized that Jesus was not just a historical person to be studied, but was very much alive and animating the lives of his disciples (like Mother Teresa) some 2,000 years later.

One nation, under God

Archbishop Naumann’s weekly calendar

Oct. 14-28 Pilgrimage to Rome and the Holy Land with the Knights and Ladies of the Holy Sepulcher Oct. 30 Gaudeamus dinner benefit for Catholic Education Foundation — Overland Park

Archbishop Keleher’s weekly calendar

Oct. 29-Nov. 1 Bishops’ prayer group — Florida This historical Jesus continues to live today. You are reading this column because you have met this Jesus. You have encountered him in the Eucharist and the sacraments. You have communicated with Jesus through prayer. Jesus did not just come into the world at one moment of history and vanished. No, Jesus rose from the dead as testified to by the transformation of the apostles. He is risen! He is alive! He offers us friendship. He shares with us his life — everlasting life. It is this Jesus, the man who lives who animated the Crusaders 1,000 years ago and who animates millions of people today to live according to his Gospel.

Catholic high schools join together to pray for the nation By Kara Hansen Leaven staff

K E AT I N G Mud Jacking

Serving NE Kansas Since 1976

FOUNDATION REPAIR

Cracked • Bowed • Settled Wall Repair v Wall Bracing v Waterproofing FREE ESTIMATES v Steel Underpinning

701 North 94th Street * Kansas City, Kansas 66112 * (913) 334-3366 Funeral Home * Cemetery * Cremation Services

MUD JACKING

Raise & Level v Patios v Drives v Garage Floors v Slab Houses

Locally Owned & Operated Kansas City (913) 262-9352

Piers Driven to Load-Bearing Strata or Bedrock

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

SECOND FRONT PAGE 3

e have the newest and nicest funeral home in Wyandotte County, right across the street from St. Patrick’s Church. Personalize a Funeral, Cemetery or Memorial Service all from one office, instead of driving all over town making plans. We even accept many pre-arranged plans from other funeral homes. To receive a free Personal Planning Guide, call or stop in today.

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — They may not be old enough to vote, but Catholic high school students in Johnson County are still planning to make their voices heard in the public square this election season. Each of the county’s three Catholic high schools — Bishop Miege in Roeland Park, St. James Academy in Lenexa, and St. Thomas Aquinas in Overland Park — are collaborating in prayer for the needs of our nation and are co-hosting a vigil Mass on the eve of the election in November. The event is collectively called “One Nation Under God.” “First and foremost, the reason behind this is the general tendency for people to become polarized leading up to an election,” said Sister Christa Marie, FSGM, president of St. James Academy. “This is an event to remind ourselves God will oversee and provide for us with our elected officials, no matter the outcome.” Sister Christa Marie said the event was not about the political candidates but, instead, an opportunity to place the election outcomes in God’s hands. “We may be Democrat, Republican or Independent by party affiliation, but

“We may be Democrat, Republican or Independent by party affiliation, but we are still one nation under God and desire his assistance for the needs of our nation and our elected officials.” Sister Christa Marie, FSGM, president of St. James Academy in Lenexa we are still one nation under God and desire his assistance for the needs of our nation and our elected officials,” she said. In the nine days leading up to the election on Nov. 2, each high school will be celebrating a daily Mass with the intention of the nation, which together will comprise a novena. A mailing has been sent to the homes of all students, inviting families to send in their petitions for the nation, which will then be offered at the Masses at each of the schools. Dr. Joe Passantino, president of Bishop Miege, said the novena and vigil Mass presented both an educational

and spiritual learning opportunity for the teens. “By involving our students in the ‘One Nation Under God’ vigil Mass and novena, we have additional opportunities to demonstrate the direct relationship between our faith and our nation,” said Passantino. “As we gather together at Mass and pray for our nation and elected leaders, we recognize more clearly than ever that we depend upon God’s grace in every aspect of our lives.” Dr. Bill Ford, president of St. Thomas Aquinas, agreed. “Even though most of our young people are under the voting age, it is important for them to understand that the freedom we enjoy in our country is not without responsibility,” he said. “They need to grasp the understanding that the choices we make matter and have consequences for all of God’s people.” The vigil Mass will be held at Holy Trinity Church in Lenexa on Nov. 1, the feast of All Saints, at 6 p.m. The Mass will be offered for the intention of the country. All are invited to attend. All three schools will be represented on the altar, where students will proclaim the readings, offer the petitions, bring up the offertory gifts, lend their voices to the interscholastic choir, and serve the Mass. Students, wearing their regular school uniforms, will also

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)

Editor Reverend Mark Goldasich, stl frmark@theleaven.com

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe@theleaven.com

Advertising Representative Jennifer Siebes jennifer@theleaven.com

President Most Reverend Joseph F. Naumann

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita@theleaven.com

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd@theleaven.com

Reporter Kara Hansen kara@theleaven.com

All Catholics are welcome and encouraged to attend the “One Nation Under God” vigil Mass on Nov. 1 at 6 p.m. The Mass will be held at Holy Trinity Church, 9150 Pflumm Road, Lenexa. minister as greeters for the general public. “Students at the three high schools have their rivalries for sports and competitions, but we can come together and show the beauty of Catholic secondary education,” said Sister Christa Marie. The chaplains of the three high schools will be concelebrating the Mass. The event marks the first time the three schools have collaborated specifically for a project. Combining faith and learning about the democratic process was a natural fit for high school students. “It is important at the high school level to teach students to identify candidates who will uphold the moral principles of our Catholic faith,” said Passantino. “Because our elected leaders have such a huge influence on the future of our nation, it is essential we begin this process of educating our young people years before they become eligible to vote.”

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

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

4 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • october 22, 2010

THE LEAVEN • October 22, 2010

New director brings varied background to Savior By Kara Hansen Leaven staff

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — It was a good job, said Tim Chik of his work as a general manager for Drury Hotels. But at the end of the day, it was not enough. Chik missed ministry — working in a position that provided him the opportunity to bring others closer to Christ. So when the position of director of Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kan., became available, following the announcement of Eileen Manza’s retirement, it seemed like a perfect fit. “I was attracted to this position because I felt that it would be the best fit for my talents and would allow me to use my business and hospitality skills, while working for the Catholic Church,” said Chik. “I have been yearning to return to service to the Lord in my occupation, and I am delighted to be here at the Savior Pastoral Center.” Most recently, Chik was a general manager for the first Drury Inn and Suites in the Phoenix market. “Drury is a wonderful, Catholic family-owned and -operated company that has hotels throughout the country,” said Chik. “I was fortunate to manage hotels for the Drury family in Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, and Arizona.” Positive as his experience was, Chik felt drawn back to a position that would utilize his theological background — and feed his faith in ways a secular career could not. Prior to working for Drury, Chik taught theology at St. Louis University High School for six years, where he also coached track and cross-country. He served at the school an additional three years as pastoral director, coordinating liturgies, prayer services, retreats and community service for the students. “I believe that my experiences as a hotel general manager will help me run the business side of Savior and move us toward long-term sustainability,” said Chik. “Then, my teaching and pastoral experiences will help me connect to the ministry side of Savior and continue the great history of the movement of the Holy Spirit in the retreats that are held at Savior Pastoral Center.” Chik holds a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and spent two years discerning a vocation to the priesthood at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in St. Louis, before ultimately determining that God had a different vocation in mind for him. “We interviewed several qualified applicants,” said Father Gary Pennings, vicar general of the archdiocese. “Tim, however, had the right mixture of hospitality management experience, coupled with experience teaching theology and leading retreats.”

How to buy the book Curious about where to buy Dan Madden’s book entitled “Incline the Ear of Your Heart: Listening to Saint Benedict’s Message of Peace,” featured in last week’s Leaven? Judging from the calls we’ve received, you are. The book can be purchased at Trinity House, 7287 W. 97th St., Overland Park; I. Donnelly, 6601 Troost Ave., Kansas City, Mo.; or by calling St. Benedict’s Abbey at (913) 367-6230.

Catholic Cemeteries to host All Souls Day Masses Kansas City, Kan. — Catholic Cemeteries, serving Johnson and Wyandotte counties, will host special All Souls Day Masses in mausoleums of two of its cemeteries on Nov. 2, both at 9:30 a.m. This annual feast day commemorates all persons who have died. Father Robert Conroy, MC, pastor of Holy Cross Parish in Overland Park, will offer Mass in the Prince of Peace Mausoleum at Resurrection Cemetery, 83rd and Quivira Road, Lenexa. Father Dan Gardner, pastor of All Saints Parish in Kansas City, Kan., will offer Mass in the St. Joseph Mausoleum at Mount Calvary Cemetery, 38th and State Ave., Kansas City, Kan. All are welcome to attend. For more information, call (913) 3714040 or send an e-mail to: information@ catholiccemeterieskc.org. Tim Chik, the new director of Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kan., stands outside the entrance to the center. Chik was previously a general manager for Drury Hotels and has a theological background. Savior Pastoral Center is regularly home to a variety of conferences, workshops and retreats with a space that can accommodate up to 350 participants and 85 overnight guests. As director of the pastoral center, Chik books reservations, oversees the facility, and works with groups using the space. “I am looking forward to seeing the faces of the retreatants as they undergo spiritual renewal,” said Chik. “Additionally, I am looking forward to seeing the building and grounds continue to grow in beauty, as we make upgrades and improvements to interior and exterior parts of the center, and getting to know the great staff here at Savior. Finally, I am looking forward to many years of grace, in maintaining the spirit of truth, beauty and goodness that permeates the halls of the Savior Pastoral Center.” The passion for faith that Chik brings to the table is what made him the best candidate for the job, said Father Pennings. “Tim demonstrated a genuine en-

Villa St. Francis

16600 W. 126th Street • Olathe, Kansas 66062 Phone: (913) 829-5201 Fax: (913) 829-5399 Daily Mass in the Chapel at 10 a.m. • Medicare and Kansas Medicaid certified • 24 - hour nursing care • Dementia/Alzheimer’s unit • Physical, occupational and speech therapist on staff/ Rapid recovery • Nutritious Home cooked meals • Private and Semi Private rooms • Beauty and Barber Shop • 24 hour snacks Affiliated with the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas

thusiasm for serving the church and working with other church entities to make Savior Pastoral Center an effective tool for the church’s evangelization, catechetical and hospitality ministries,” he said. “Tim also showed a great zeal for expanding Savior’s appeal to organizations both within and outside of the archdiocesan church structure.” Taking the position as director of Savior Pastoral Center meant moving back to the Midwest for Chik and his family. It was a move he and wife Stacy and children — Emma, 7, and Timmy, 6 — welcomed. Chik said it brings them closer to family and friends living in the area, and back to their Midwestern roots. “My family and I have been living in Phoenix for a while, and I have missed the Midwestern hospitality and kindness,” said Chik. “Since I’ve been here, I have had so many people call me, email me, and stop by, just to say, ‘Welcome.’ “It fills my heart to return to the goodness of the Heartland.”

LOCAL NEWS 5

Priest to lecture about the proof of God’s existence ATCHISON — Father Robert Spitzer, SJ, Ph.D., will deliver a public lecture Oct. 25 at 7:30 p.m. at Benedictine College in the O’Malley-McCallister Auditorium here. The lecture will be based on his recent book, “New Proofs for the Existence of God: Contributions of Contemporary Physics and Philosophy.” Father Robert He recently appeared Spitzer on “Larry King Live” for a debate with Stephen Hawking and he is well-known for having produced several series on EWTN including: “Healing the Culture”; “The Spirit of Catholic Leadership”; “Suffering and the Love of God”; “Finding God Through Faith and Reason”; “Five Pillars of the Spiritual Life”; and “Jesus-Emmanuel.” President-emeritus of Gonzaga University in Spokane, Wash., Father Robert now directs the Magis Center of Reason and Faith in Irvine, Calif., along with other institutes he has founded.

CNS photo/Felix Ordonez, Reuters

CNS photo/Miguel Vidal, Reuters

Pilgrims walk the Way of St. James in Villafranca Montes de Oca, near the town of Burgos, Spain. Hundreds of thousands of pilgrims were making their way to the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela, where the remains of St. James the Greater are believed to be entombed.

Fireworks explode over the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, Spain, July 25 to mark the feast of St. James. The cathedral enshrines what are believed to be the relics of the apostle James, whose remains reportedly were brought to Spain after his martyrdom in Jerusalem.

Road to Santiago beset with struggles, then and now

By Father Mike Stubbs

Special to The Leaven

n almost every church along the way to Santiago de Compostela, a long stretch of about 450 miles, I saw a statue of St. James, or “Santiago” in Spanish. He was presented in two different ways. First of all, he often appears dressed as a pilgrim. That is because the pilgrims traveling to visit the tomb of St. James at Santiago de Compostela closely identify with him. It was only natural that he would assume their traits. Accordingly, he would be dressed in the cloak of a Father Stubbs pilgrim, holding a walking staff with a gourd attached to it, wearing a hat pinned with a scallop shell, and carrying a Bible. These are the items that would identify a person as a pilgrim to Santiago de Compostela during the Middle Ages. The gourd would serve as a water jug. The other items are self-explanatory, except for the scallop shell, which could be used as a spoon. But more important, it is a symbol for the city of Santiago, which is fairly close to the sea. A few miles farther lies Finisterre, which literally means “end of the earth.” During the Middles Ages, the pilgrims who reached that point believed that they had arrived at the drop-off point for the world. There was nothing beyond. This was part of the attraction that the pilgrimage to Santiago held during the Middle Ages. It reflected the belief that St. James the Apostle had travelled all the way to Spain to preach the Gospel. In doing so, he was helping to spread the faith to the ends of the earth. Did St. James actually go to Spain? We know that St. Paul wanted to. He

Spanish artist Juan Carreño de Miranda depicts St. James fighting the Moors. He is often depicted as “Matamorros,” the “Moor killer.” wrote to that effect in his Letter to the Romans: “I have been longing for many years to visit you on my way to Spain” (15:23). On the other hand, we also know

that St. James was martyred in Jerusalem: “It was about this time that King Herod attacked certain members of the church. He beheaded James, the brother of John” (Acts 12:1-2). It is difficult

for me to believe that St. James’ body ended up in Spain, over 1,000 miles away. At the same time, we know that the Christian faith spread very early to Spain and took firm hold there, whether it was through the efforts of St. James or the efforts of other missionaries. That faith continued on, even after the conquest by the Muslim Moors. In the long struggles to regain Spain from the Moors, the Christians turned to St. James. “Santiago” became their battle cry. According to tradition, St. James himself appeared in one crucial battle to help the Christians. That brings up the second manner in which St. James is often portrayed — as “Matamorros,” the “Moor killer.” He is mounted on a war horse, swinging a sword over his head. At his feet lie a few Moors he has defeated. This bellicose image may not appeal to us during this age of interfaith dialogue. We might hope for a more peaceful image. However, this image of St. James as a fighter can remind us that living out our faith involves a struggle — a struggle not always with external opponents, but with elements within as well. The pilgrimage to Santiago reflects this journey of faith, beset with struggles. Pilgrims arrive in Santiago, hobbling with blisters on their feet and sore muscles from walking miles and miles, often under difficult conditions. A little more than a week ago, I was perched on top of a mountain, while a fierce storm raged around me. The violent winds ripped my poncho to shreds — winds so strong that they, I later discovered, had brought down big tree limbs. The rain soaked me to the bone. I was so cold that I was afraid that hypothermia might set in. That was my worst day, during a week in which it rained every day. But that is behind me. Now the sun is shining. The skies are blue. I have arrived in Santiago. It is worth the struggle.

6 LOCAL NEWS Lillian and John Heiling, members of St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on Oct. 21. The couple was married at St. Joseph on Oct. 21, 1950. A family dinner and reception Anniversaries will be held on Oct. 23. Their children and spouses are: John and Kathleen Heiling, Lenexa; Jim and Teresa Heiling, Sioux City, Iowa; Tom and Laura Heiling, Olathe; and Dan and Gay Lynne Heiling, Owasso, Okla. They also have 12 grandchildren and one greatgranddaughter. Betty and Joe Nick, member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor, recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. The couple was married at St. Patrick Church, Hoge (currently known as Holy Angels), on Oct. 14, 1950. The celebration included a Mass at Holy Angels on Oct. 9, followed by a family dinner hosted by their children and their spouses. Their children and spouses are: Josie and Gary Bukaty; Rosie and Ralph Hendricks; Leonard and Tracy Nick; Joe Nick Jr.; Danny Nick; and Susie Nick. They also have eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

THE LEAVEN • october 22, 2010 Mary Ann (Weishaar) and Warren Hall, members of Mother Teresa Parish of Calcutta, Topeka, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary with a family gathering on Oct. 24. The couple was married on Oct. 22, 1960, at St. Joseph Church, Nortonville. Their children and their spouses are: Kenneth Hall (deceased); Gregory and Lashell Hall; Darren and Julie Hall; and Thad and Melissa Hall. They also have three grandchildren. Theresa Marie (Mersman) and Ned Kelsey, members of Holy Trinity Parish in Paola, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on Oct. 23 with family and friends. The couple was married at St. Boniface Church, Scipio, on Oct. 23, 1950. They have six children: Lynn, David, Ronda, Mike, John and Chris. They also have 16 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Mixed, not shaken ‘Nothing to fear’ say couples who’ve adopted across racial lines. ‘They’re all special kids.’

Concrete Work

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

Harvey M. Kascht (913) 262-1555

Want to help someone heal from an abortion? Call Toll Free 888-246-1504

Story and photos by Jill Ragar Esfeld

The Leaven only prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th anniversary notices. Send notices to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, attn: anniversaries; or send an e-mail to: Todd@theleaven.com.

Dinah and Steve Humphreys pose with three of their five children: (from left) Liz, Mary and Will. Motorcycling is a favorite activity for Steve and the couple’s other two sons, Drew and Davis, who are not pictured.

black

Yet, at every adoption agency across

child be happy

the country, there continues to be a great

in a white fam-

need for families who are willing to open

ily? Ever since

their hearts and homes to local children of

the first tran-

a different race.

sracial

adop-

As Jan Lewis, president of Catholic Char-

tion took place

ities of Northeast Kansas, said, “We’re al-

more than 60

ways looking for that loving family.”

years ago, a plethora of studies have investigated that question.

And the answer has almost always been

a resounding “yes.”

Read on to meet three families from our archdiocese who chose to embrace the difference through transracial adoptions. And are very glad they did.

Meet the Humphreys family “At first, they didn’t seem to realize they were different,” said Dinah Humphreys, referring to her three youngest children. “They thought they were white. I remember distinctly saying to each of them, ‘Well, look in the mirror. What color is your skin?’ Then they realized they’re black.” When Steve and Dinah Humphreys, members of Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa, first started their family, they went through a local agency and adopted Caucasian twin boys: Drew and Davis, now 17. At that time, they hadn’t considered adopting outside their race. But as the twins approached school age, the couple knew they wanted a big family, and another Caucasian child wasn’t possible without a costly private adoption. “After two Caucasian children, you can’t do anymore through agencies like that,” said Dinah. The couple was unsure about the option of transracial adoption. Then one day at work, Dinah, a nurse, saw a patient who cared for two biracial children. “They were the cutest little two- and four-year-old boys. And I thought, ‘Yeah, I could love them,’” she recalled. “That was when we started thinking about it.” The Humphreyses were present when their daughter Liz, now 11, was born. She is biracial. “I remember holding Liz and her being against my skin and the difference,” said Dinah. But it didn’t take long to fall in love, or to adjust to the attention a biracial baby was bound to elicit. “I’d be at the pool and people would say, ‘Your baby’s so tan already,’” said Dinah. When Liz was two, Steve and Dinah got another call from the agency. A black boy had been born, and his mother couldn’t keep him. The family immediately went to the hospital where they met their third son, Will, who is now nine years old. With three boys and one girl, they felt almost complete and decided to leave any more additions to the family to chance. “We didn’t formally put in to adopt another one,” explained Dinah. “But we said, ‘If you get a girl, we’ll take her.’” Mary, who is now eight, was born with neonatal hepatitis. She was in the ICU for a month. But she recovered completely and became the final addition to the family. As transracial adoption has become more common, the Humphreyses feel they stand out less, but they still occasionally receive words of encouragement from total strangers. ‘We’ve had numerous times when people have come up to us and said, ‘God bless you for doing that,’ just out of the blue,” said Steve. “It’s always been good, positive reinforcement.” “But I don’t think of it that way,” he added. “I think of it just as they are our children. Once they’re part of the family, then I just love them and adore them.” As the family has grown together, they’ve found the challenges of transracial adoption to be few and mostly positive. The most difficult, said Dinah, is the girls’ hair. “You’re very conscious of being a white mother with a black child, and you don’t want their hair to look bad,” she said. “I’ve learned to do the chemical relaxer, but I never got down the cornrows.” The couple said an important step in transracial adoption is accepting the fact that your family is changed forever. “You have to be open to the idea that this child may have black friends, black boyfriends, black girlfriends, may marry a black person,” said Dinah. “You just have to know that you are a mixed family.” What’s harder to prepare for is the pos-

Transracial adoption and Catholic Charities

The Jackson family poses on the swing set in their backyard. Jay holds their son Ian, while Kristi shares the swing with their daughter Sydney. sibility that one of your children will be hurt by racism. “I’ve talked to them about — you will be treated differently in certain situations,” said Dinah. “I have some concern about Will. What if he doesn’t fit in — if he isn’t black enough?” “I think the fear for me is that maybe my feelings will be hurt when someday they are hurt with racism,” said Steve. “I fear that moment will come. So I’m still preparing myself for that, and how I’ll react.” Caring so deeply for these black children has brought with it a deeper concern for, and awareness of, black issues in general. “It has helped me become more accepting of black culture and more aware of black issues in our country,” said Steve. “It’s opened my eyes to the difficulties they’ve had to overcome — the pain and suffering they’ve had to endure for equal rights.” The Humphreys family would encourage anyone thinking about adoption to consider adopting outside their race. “I just think go with your heart. There’s

nothing to fear from it,” said Steve. “They’re all special kids.” “And if you pray, God provides what you need,” he added. “There may be difficult issues, but you find the strength to endure.”

Meet the Jackson family “They call it the ‘triangular stare,’” said Kristi Jackson. “It’s the lady in church that sees him and looks up at me,” she said, “then leans forward to look past me to see what my husband looks like — she’s just kind of looking and wondering what happened there.” Church of the Ascension, Overland Park, parishioners Jay and Kristi Jackson, like other families involved in transracial adoptions, don’t mind the curious glances. “I don’t feel uncomfortable,” said Kristi. “I feel proud to have him.”

“We love our son,” added Jay. “He’s just beautiful and one of the greatest blessings in our life.” The Jacksons’ life together has been a series of blessings. They met when Jay, a member of the bone-marrow registry, matched a young boy in need of a lifesaving transplant. “Kristi was my nurse,” explained Jay. “She did my bone marrow collection. I asked her out the next day.” The couple married and, because Jay is the product of an adoption, they didn’t hesitate to choose that option when they couldn’t have children of their own. “My parents are the people who raised me,” said Jay. “From my experience, it was comfortable to consider adoption.” They first adopted their daughter Sydney, who is Caucasian. “And it made me feel good walking down the street, that you couldn’t tell she was adopted,” recalled Kristi. “It made me feel normal. That’s one reason why we preferred a Caucasian child.” Sydney’s adoption was attorneyassisted. The Jacksons went the same

“Finding families for non-white children is always our struggle and always our need,” said Jan Lewis, president of Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas. Because of the need, the waiting period for transracial adoptions is not an issue, but Catholic Charities doesn’t want that to be a reason for adopting a child from a different race. “We don’t want people to just say yes because they want a child, or because it’s faster,” said Lewis. Couples considering transracial adoption need to be aware of the challenges that come with the rewards. “We just want to help families as they move toward that decision to know what they’re up against and to know what the child will be up against,” said Lewis. “People are going to ask questions. Their family is going to stand out because there’s a difference sitting there,” she said. Barbara Katz, a social worker who helps people adopt through Catholic Charities, encourages couples to think carefully before committing to a transracial adoption. “They need to think about how the child will fit into their family. And, for some people, they also need to think about their community — about whether or not it’s going to be a community that’s open to that child,” she said. If a family chooses transracial adoption, the blessings are many. “I think one of the positives is you realize this child is like any other child,” said Katz. “And no matter what, this is your child and you’re going to love them just as much as you would a child who is Caucasian or who is your biological child.” Plus, the lessons learned through the experience of adopting a child of a different race extend far beyond the immediate family. “They’re really opening the minds of not only their family members, but people in the community, and I think only positive can come from that,” said Katz. Katz suggests that families considering transracial adoption talk to someone who has been through it. She recommends the Web site — www. metrokcadoption.com — for support groups and resources. “Get educated about it, because there are a lot of people who have brought up these children and had nothing but positive experiences,” she said. “I would highly encourage any family to think about it.” route when they adopted again. But this time, they were in for a little surprise. “When we accepted the match with the birth mother, we were under the impression the baby was going to be Caucasian,” said Kristi. “After we accepted, we found out it could be black.” The Jacksons had the opportunity to back out of the adoption, but chose to go through with it instead. “We said, ‘That’s fine, we’re going to do it,’” said Kristi. “And now that we have him, I don’t know any reason why we would have been hesitant.” More challenges were ahead, however. Their new son, Ian, had several birthmarks, which indicated a genetically inherited disorder, neurofibromatosis, in which the nerve tissue grows tumors. “We just have to wait for another sign before they can make the diagnosis,” said

Katie and Patrick Leis pose with their young brood: (from left) Leah, holding her sister Madeline, followed by Claire and Adam. Kristi. “It can show itself in different ways and different severities.” But even this setback didn’t give the Jacksons second thoughts. “It’s like, ‘If I did have this biological child, would I leave him at the hospital if I found out he had this condition?’ No, I wouldn’t,” explained Kristi. “Once we accepted the match, we knew we were in it to the end.” Ian is a perfect fit for the family as far as his big sister is concerned. She clearly adores him and, until recently, didn’t notice he was a different color. “One day a little three-year-old saw Ian and then looked at Jay and me and she just spoke up and said, ‘You can’t have a brown baby!’” recalled Kristi. “Of course, her mother was mortified.” “I don’t think Sydney noticed the color at all until then,” she said. “After that, she started asking questions. She would see someone speaking Spanish in the grocery store and say, ‘What color is she?’” The Jacksons’ extended family and friends were eager to welcome Ian into the fold. Even Jay’s father, who had been raised in the South when segregation was society’s rule, approved. “My dad passed away shortly after Ian was born,” said Jay. “He mentioned before he died that he was really happy for us. And that was important to hear.” The couple’s greatest hope is that the rest of the world will be as accepting of their son. “You know, when you’re a teenager, you want to feel like you fit in, and I just worry about him,” confessed Kristi. “Being adopted, that’s one thing that makes him different,” she said. “Being biracial, that will make him feel different, and having this condition will make him feel different.” “That’s something we’ve talked about a number of times,” added Jay. “But as I look back, I think we all have the same problems. I think we all worry about whether or not we’re going to be accepted.” The Jacksons’ advice to anyone thinking of adoption is to be prepared for an emotional roller coaster. “You have to be very strong emotionally to go through the adoption process,” said Jay. “But now we have these two beautiful children, and we look back and know they were meant to be ours.” And the couple has no reservations about recommending transracial adop-

tion. “Put your fears aside and, once you have that baby it will seem as natural as any other child,” said Kristi. “I don’t have the experience of having my own biological child, but I can’t imagine loving him any differently.”

Meet the Leis Family “It’s a blessing to my other children,” said Katie Leis. “We try to seek stories about African-American children, and we make an effort to learn about black saints, more than we would if we didn’t have Leah. And that just makes me thankful that we do.” When Prince of Peace, Olathe, parishioners Katie and Patrick Leis married, they knew it might be a challenge to have children. Katie has lupus, which makes it difficult for her to carry a baby to term. After two miscarriages, the couple decided to become foster parents while they considered adoption. Barely a month after they finished fosterparent training, Katie found out she was pregnant. Two months later, Leah, a oneyear-old black girl, was placed with them as a foster child. Eventually Leah’s mother, a teenager in foster care, also moved in with the couple while she finished high school. “She lived with us for 13 months,” said Katie, “and for this whole time we thought the two of them would be reintegrated. We did not think we would adopt Leah.” So the Leis house was already a busy one when Katie gave birth to their first child, Adam. But before he was a year old, an adoption agency called with the news that a birth family had chosen Patrick and Katie as adoptive parents. “And that’s how we came to have our daughter Claire,” explained Katie. But their story doesn’t end there. Leah’s birth mother had indeed finished school and moved out on her own, but the plans for Leah to move in with her mother didn’t materialize. When parental rights were terminated on both Leah’s parents, in fact, the Leises began proceedings to adopt Leah. “They think our adoption will be final-

ized sometime in October or the beginning of November,” said Katie. In the meantime, this past June, the couple welcomed their fourth child when Katie gave birth to a healthy little girl they named Madeline. The four siblings are close in more than just age. And though Leah’s skin color may be different, no one seems to care. “In our house we don’t see a difference in our children that are adopted and that are biological,” said Katie. “We just love them all and they’re all our kids.” Katie, who intends to home school, enjoys helping her children share in Leah’s black culture. But both she and Patrick consider Leah’s primary culture the one she shares with her siblings. “We believe her culture is Catholic first,” said Katie. “And so we absolutely feel an obligation for her to know about her Catholic culture.” The Leises understand transracial adoption is a difficult choice for many families. “My husband grew up in a town of 11,000 people in southeast Kansas,” said Katie. “It was a big adjustment for his family, his town, and the people in his life, to have a black child in their lives.” “It is a hard decision to make,” she added. “You want to say it doesn’t matter what people think, and we’ll just do what’s right. “But it’s not really that easy, and it affects the child, too.” Katie hopes people who are curious about transracial adoption will feel comfortable talking to her or other families who have children from a different race. “I think a lot of times people are hesitant to ask questions,” she said. “I mean, it’s very obvious that she’s a black child and we’re white parents, and most of us want to be adoption advocates. “We want people to feel like they can ask questions and seek out the answers they need.” If they adopt again, Katie said they would adopt another black child. But for now, they’re keeping busy with the gifts God has given them. And they’re grateful Leah will soon be a permanent member of the family. “People say all the time, ‘She’s so lucky to be in your family,’” said Katie. “And I think, ‘She’s no luckier than any of our other children,’” Katie added. “And we’re just as blessed as she is.”

THE LEAVEN • october 22, 2010

commentary 11

‘The lessons I’ve learned in the school of suffering’ By Father J. Edward Bradley

Special to The Leaven

God has called all of us to become saints. And who are the saints except those who have allowed God to form them and love them into holiness. Usually this forming and loving is a direct result of suffering. And in “the school of suffering” some of us are placed into a classroom for accelerated learning. This school requires that we take courses no one willingly signs up for. The tests are hard. The assignments seem impossible. It was a team of three physicians who interpreted my X-rays and other medical tests for me and then told me the dreaded news: “You have cancer.” Since it was already in Stage III, plans were made immediately for my treatment. I can’t remember very much of the conversation with the doctors; I was trying to convince myself that it was true. I went into the church and tried to pray. After a time of fitful prayer, an old prayer from St. Ignatius Loyola came to me: “Take, Lord, receive, all my liberty, my memory, my understanding, and my entire will. Give me only your love and your grace, that’s enough for me. Your love and your grace are enough for me.” With these words echoing in my head, I said “yes” to the Lord. Because I had cancer, my life was truly the Lord’s to do with as he will. From that moment on, I knew only one thing for certain: I do not know what my future holds, but I know who holds my future. Humility is a prerequisite of learning and growing. It is the ability to recognize that we all need help in life to deal with problems and difficult situations. Humility was the first of several lessons I learned in the school of suffering. Very soon it occurred to me that I was being given a personal and private glimpse of what life is like for the sick and suffering. I began to develop a greater empathy for those people who suffer with their physical sickness and the hardship of not being able to do what they once did almost effortlessly. Very early on, despite the suffering through chemotherapy as well as the anxiety and uncertainty of my illness, I learned that this is a time of feeling so alone . . . and yet so loved. One day while I was praying in church, a parishioner came up to me, put her arm around my shoulder and prayed, “Dear God, please heal Father Bradley and give me his cancer.” I was incredulous. I looked at her and, with

“One day while I was praying in church, a parishioner came up to me, put her arm around my shoulder and prayed, ‘Dear God, please heal Father Bradley and give me his cancer.’ I was incredulous. I looked at her and, with tears in my eyes, was able to pray: ‘Lord, rather than give my cancer to her, give her heart of love to me.’” tears in my eyes, was able to pray: “Lord, rather than give my cancer to her, give her heart of love to me.” Many sincere people have prayed for me, and for that I am very grateful. Some have voiced their prayers and concerns to me, and I have tried to help them with a better perspective on suffering and pain. One man, with great concern about my physical condition said, “Don’t worry, Father. God will hear your prayers because we need you here. And I just know God will not let you die.” I took out the rosary with a crucifix on it that was in my pocket and said, “Have you looked at a crucifix lately?” If anybody was needed in the world, it was Jesus. If anybody was good, it was Jesus. If anybody didn’t deserve to suffer, it was Jesus. And yet God allowed him to suffer and die in the most hideous way, in the prime of his life and ministry. I tried to share with all the people I could that the only guarantee I have is that God will always be with me and will take care of me. This is how I also explain it when people ask why God gave me cancer. I have to admit that I have never felt that God gave me this cancer. It is true, though, that God allowed this cancer to happen. I believe God allows suffering to happen to bring about a greater good. In fact, what we first perceive as not good, upon later enlightenment, we realize is often a gift, a blessing in disguise. The crucifix is the perfect sign of the paradox were God allows something so bad in order to bring about a much greater good — namely, salvation. The more I prayed with my feelings, questions and doubts, the more I could see an image of Jesus on the cross. With one arm nailed to the cross, Jesus lovingly reaches out with his other arm, embracing me and drawing me closer to him. There is absolutely nothing good about suffering in and of itself. As a matter of fact, Jesus spent much of his ministry healing people and alleviating suffering. Nevertheless, there is much good that

”

suffering can bring about if it brings us closer to Christ. Therefore, the most helpful thing I have learned in my suffering is to unite myself with Christ on the cross, which unites him with me on my cross. At the time of my most intense suffering, when the hurt is so deep I cannot even find the words to pray, all I can manage to do is to hold onto a crucifix or cross, thereby holding onto Christ who is holding me. One of the harshest realities about suffering is that it can close us off from people — even people we are close to. It can close us off from our family and friends. It can even close us off to ourselves. Sometimes we are embarrassed. We feel so bad and know we don’t look our best either. We find it a struggle to want to be with other people when we don’t feel well. Sometimes we don’t want to be a burden to others. We don’t like asking other people to help us when we know our requests and needs make extra work for someone else. Sometimes we simply lack stamina. We don’t feel like being with anyone because we just don’t have the strength. We find it hard, and sad, to tell someone not to visit because we just do not have the energy to talk for even a few minutes. Sickness and suffering combine dangerously to isolate us from the very people who love and care for us the most. We suffering folks understand this need to be alone at times, but we must take care not to cut off the love of family and friends whom we need to get through difficult times. On the other hand, for some people suffering can be the one thing that finally opens us. Our hearts are broken open. In these cases, suffering opens us to a new depth within ourselves, depths never before realized. Suffering leads us to deeper levels of our inner lives. Pain and suffering also have potential to open us up to other people who have similar problems and pain. Sometimes, our suffering connects us in odd circumstances, like many different pieces of a puzzle that by themselves do not make sense, but when connected enable us a better look at the bigger pic-

“We are proud to be a locally owned family funeral home serving our community.”

Funeral home • crematory • Memorial chapels 10901 Johnson Drive Shawnee, Kansas 66203 Telephone 913-631-5566 Fax 913-631-2236 Gregg Amos

www.amosfamily.com

ture. This is what happened among fellow patients during chemotherapy treatments each week. Sitting together with our intravenous tubes dripping chemo into our bodies, we began to share our similar stories. It soon became obvious that we were connected by much more than IV tubing. We shared our common concerns, questions and frustrations. I began to listen and learn so much from my fellow patients. They became my classmates in this school of suffering. We were in this thing together, and together, we could offer each other the hope and help that few other people could. Even more than that, we often promised to pray for each other every day. In fact, this is truly one of the best ways we could help each other. This is how I have learned that compassion is one of the deepest gifts of the heart. The word “compassion” means literally “to feel deeply with.” Feeling deeply with each other is what we did in our chemotherapy classroom with our IV poles attached to us, incredibly representing the cross of cancer we had all been asked to carry. I indeed looked at my chemo-companions to be like classmates. Regardless of our age, circumstances in life, or even the type or degree of our exact piece of the puzzle, we were all in the same class. We were all asking similar questions while dealing with similar struggles. All of us were just trying our best to get through this difficult course, hoping someday to graduate and move on in good health. Another major lesson I have learned from my fellow classmates is how to look and listen to the subtle signs of suffering. Few people will wear their disease or disability like a badge or name tag. But you can’t miss its identification written in the painful eyes of those who are hurting. My suffering opened me up to recognize how many, many people are hurting, quietly aching and pained, or secretly suffering. This hurt, this pain, can be physical, emotional, relational or even spiritual. I feel genuine empathy for my fellow classmates, more than I ever could have if I had not suffered along with them. And for this I shall be eternally grateful. Father Bradley is the pastor of Holy Name of Jesus Parish in Henderson, Ky., and this is reprinted with permission from the Henderson Gleaner newspaper in Henderson, Ky.

12 CLASSIFIEDS Employment Retail assistant manager - Opening for full- or part-time position at Dennis Uniform store in Overland Park. Computer skills required. For information or to apply, call Pat at (913) 381-6500 or send an e-mail to her at: pam@dennisuniform.com. Early education director - St. John Francis Regis Parish seeks an enthusiastic leader of our family friendly Early Learning Center to guide our 6-weeks through pre-K program, plus our school-age after-care program and summer school-age program. The qualified candidate will be an active and practicing Catholic in good standing with the church, preferably with a bachelor’s degree in early education or related field. A minimum of 12 hours in the field of early childhood is required. A minimum of three years of experience in a supervised child care classroom setting. One year in a supervisory position is required. The director will have skills in marketing, personnel management and budgeting. Familiarity with NAEYC accreditation is a must. The ability to work with both children and adults in an active learning environment and maintain staff development in accordance with diocesan and state standards is also necessary. Applications are available by contacting the Catholic Schools Office at (816) 756-1858, ext. 274, or on the Web site at: http://jobs.diocesekcsj.org/jobs. Part-time bowling machine mechanic - St. John’s Catholic Club, Kansas City, Kan., needs someone to maintain a six-lane house in the men’s club. All late model 1960s Brunswick equipment. Call Kenny at (913) 788-9758. Financial representative - Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding financial representatives in the Kansas City and Emporia areas. This position is ideal for a determined, high-energy, high-expectation, professional, selfdisciplined, independent individual desiring to serve others, yet earn a better-than-average income. We provide top-rated financial products to our members and their families and will provide excellent benefits and training. For information or an interview, contact John A. Mahon, 307 Dakota, Holton KS 66436; or call (785) 364-5450.

Services Mortgage rates have never been lower!!! Considering a refinance or new home purchase? Call today to see how much money you can save. We make mortgage loans easy and hassle-free. Evening and weekend appointments available. Members of Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa. Call Kurt or Angie at Approved Mortgage Inc. (913) 599-0004 An equal housing lender. KS mortgage number MC0002252 Piano teacher - With over 30 years experience, now accepting new students. Young beginners through advanced; three through 18 years of age. I provide a caring, creative, and positive learning environment. To schedule a visit to my studio, call (913) 832-7079 or send an e-mail to: ainewendler@hotmail. com. Housecleaning - Charmaine will provide you with excellent service you can depend on. Years of experience in satisfying customers. Serving the Greater KC metro area. Call Charmaine at (913) 972-7900. I love what I do . . . and you can love it, too! - Housecleaning. 20-plus years experience. Excellent references. Johnson County area. Call (913) 548-8702. Old-fashioned cleaning - Hand-mopping; a consistent, thorough job every time! Years of experience; excellent references. Special occasion, party and holiday cleaning. I make a great gift! Call Sharon at (816) 322-0006. Machine quilting - by Jenell Noeth, Basehor. Also, quilts made to order. Call (913) 724-1837. Tree service - Pruning trees for optimal growth and beauty and removal of hazardous limbs or problem trees. Free consultation and bid. Safe, insured, professional. Brad Grabs, Green Solutions of KC, (913) 244-5838. www.GreenSolutionsKC.com. Foley’s Lawn Care Now scheduling fall cleanups. Providing you with mowing, overseeding, aeration, verticutting, gutter cleaning and mulching. Serving Johnson County for over 10 yrs. St. Joseph parishioner. (913) 825-4353 www.foleyslawncare.com.

THE LEAVEN • OCTOBER 22, 2010 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. Counseling - Topeka Marriage and family, child, teen, personal Shunga Creek Mental Health Call Ken Zweig, LSCSW at (785) 969-5308.

THE LEAVEN • OCTOBER 22, 2010 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

Caregiving

Real Estate

Mature Catholic woman - Available for parttime caregiving. Excellent references. Years of experience. Mid-Johnson County area preferred. Call (913) 579-8914.

Ottawa home for sale - 3 BR, 3 BA ranch. Full finished walkout bsmt. Across from country club. Easy access to I-35. Next to park. $149,950. MLS#1692987. Call Betty Birzer, Reece & Nichols, at (785) 418-5701 or (785) 229-8890 or visit the Web site at: www.betty birzer.com.

Retired nurse - Available to care for your loved one. Days, nights, and weekends. Will consider livein; willing to relocate. References; salary negotiable. Call (913) 579-5276. Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation to the elderly and disabled in home, assisted living and nursing facilities. We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Laurie, Sara or Gary. Do you or your parents need help at home? For as little as $60/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.

Home Improvement Adept Home Improvements Where quality still counts! Basement finishing, Kitchens and baths, Electrical and plumbing, Licensed and insured. (913) 599-7998 Clutter problems? Embarrassing garage, basement, attic or any room? Let me help you get organized! Items sorted, grouped, boxed and labeled; areas clean when finished. Great references and insured. Twenty years experience! Handyman repairs also available. To view “before” and “after” pictures, visit my Web site at: WWW.SWALMS.COM. Tillar Swalm (913) 375-9115. The Drywall Doctor, Inc. - A unique solution to your drywall problems! We fix all types of ceiling and wall damage — from water stains and stress cracks to texture repairs and skim coating. We provide professional, timely repairs and leave the job site clean! Lead-certified and insured! Serving the metro since 1997. Call (913) 768-6655. Everything plumbing - Leaks, faucets, toilets, sinks, disposals, repairs and replacements. Over 20 years experience. Fully licensed. Service anytime – days/nights/wknds. Contact Mike at (913) 488-4930. Member of Church of the Ascension Parish, Overland Park. Detail construction and remodeling - We offer a full line of home remodeling services. Don’t move — remodel! Johnson county area. Call for a free quote. (913) 709-8401. Electrician - Free estimates; reasonable rates. JoCo and southern KC metro area. Call Pat at (913) 9639896. Custom countertops - Laminates installed within 5 days. Cambria, granite, and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee. Masonry work – Quality, new or repair work. Brick, block, and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; second generation bricklayer. Call (913) 829-4336. 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: smokey cabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa. Father-and-son team - These guys can do it all — exterior painting, decks, fences, retaining walls, metal buildings, patios, porches, and driveways. We’ll do your job for a reasonable price! Call Josh at (913) 709-7230.

Olathe home - Cozy up to a beautiful floor-toceiling, wood-burning, brick fireplace! 3 BR, 1-1/2 BA, finished lower level, two-car garage, raised ranch with wonderfully landscaped front yard. All new paint inside and out; new flooring and carpet; newer roof; new HVAC and dishwasher; new kitchen cabinets and countertops. Appliances stay — including washer and dryer. Large decks, fenced yard, shed and private backyard that backs to woods. Walk to schools. Shopping minutes away. Seller is motivated; move in tomorrow! Best price in Olathe at $144,950. Located at 714 E. 125th Terr. Call (913) 825-4040 or send an e-mail to: becky@divateam.com. Westwood home FSBO - 3 BR, 2-1/2 BA ranch. Low utilities, well-insulated, dry basement, partially finished basement, lots of storage, fenced backyard, hardwood floors. SME school district; near St. Agnes Parish and Bishop Miege High School. $169,500. Call (913) 432-2287. Wonderful true 5-bedroom home - Prince of Peace, Olathe. Only $175,000. Great updates; excellent condition. Fenced yard. Master with bath; laundry on main level. Motivated seller. 1430 E. Wells Fargo Dr. Minutes from Garmin and hwys. Call Rita Moley Dickey, Reece and Nichols, at (913) 269-4786. Walk to St. James Academy - 9621 Appleridge Lane, Lenexa.Beautiful 4 BR, 4-1/2 BA, plus main level office. Exquisite open floor plan with mud room, semi-finished basement, and more. On a cul-de-sac. For information, call Cynthia Sowle, Coldwell Banker, at (913) 240-3263. Land FSBO - Winchester, Kan. 40 acres m/l (10 timber, 30 prairie grass); two ponds with good fishing; good deer and turkey hunting; a mile and a half off the highway; beautiful building site; excellent schools; only 40 miles from KC. Call (913) 683-4488 or (913) 362-3024.

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. For rent – 1 BR, 1 BA apartment in Shawnee near Nieman and Johnson Dr. $515/month; utilities included. 10911 W. 59th Terr. To view, visit the Web site at: www.shawnee-rentals.com. Call (913) 649-7596.

Vacation Ski Winter Park, Colo., this spring break! Fixed week #9 from 2/26/11 - 3/5/11. Very nice condo. 2 BR, 2 BA, with kitchen and fireplace. Pets are OK. Rent for $400 per week, or buy for $1200. To view, Google “Inn at Silver Creek.” Call (913) 649-7596. Vacation rental - Marriott Frenchman’s Cove time share, St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands. Jan. 8 - 15, 2011. 1 BR, 1 BA, suite with two queen beds, private entrance, balcony and kitchenette. To view, visit the Web site at: www.marriottvacationclub.com. $1,000/ week. Call Amy at (816) 853-0307.

Misc. Responsible bowhunter - Seeking permission and/or lease rights to hunting property for deer. May trade legal services. Call (785) 231-9706.

Donate a vehicle. Make a difference. Donate your vehicle to Catholic Charities to support those in need. Your tax-deductible donation of a vehicle helps children and families served by Catholic Charities and is an environmentally responsible way to recycle your vehicle. Cars for KC Kids is a partnership between Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas and Catholic Charities of Kansas City - St. Joseph. Call 1 (866) 430-9499 or visit the Web site at: www.cars4kckids.com. Booth rental - Established salon in Westwood area is seeking stylist for booth rental. Contact Sandy or Janeen at (913) 831-2606.

For Sale Heirloom quality doll furniture - Handcrafted, solid wood, for the 16” to 18” doll, such as the American Girl doll. Beds, bunk beds, canopy beds, daybeds, cradles, tables and chairs, school desk — all painted or stained. St. Joseph, Shawnee, parishioner. Call John at (913) 631-4060. Two cemetery lots - In Faith Garden at Resurrection Cemetery, Lenexa. Section B; lot 45; spaces 3 and 4. The current cost is $3450, if purchased through the cemetery. Asking $2400 for both. For information, contact Tim Streff at (913) 927-2221. Residential lifts - Buy/sell/trade. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. Recycled and new equipment. Member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood. Call Silver Cross KC at (913) 393-2042.

Wanted to buy ***WANTED*** I buy coins, older watches, silverware, slot machines, old rifles and shotguns, stoneware crocks and jugs, old furniture from basement or attic. Call Chris at (913) 593-7507 or (913) 642-8269 Will buy firearms and related accessories One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee. Antique/Vintage Costume Jewelry ***Wanted to Buy*** * Member St. Joseph Parish Renee Maderak (913) 631-7179

unplanned pregnancy? decisions to make? Replace pressure and panic with thoughtful, and rational reflection. A confidential, caring friend is waiting for your call. Topeka- (785) 234-0701 Lawrence- (785) 843-4821 Leavenworth- (913) 682-2700 Kansas City-(816)444-7090 Emporia- (620) 342-8600

irthright

or call 24 hrs. toll free 1-800-550-4900

Want to help someone heal from an abortion?

Call Toll Free 888-246-1504

Oct.

The Ladies Guild of St. Joseph Church, 5901 Flint, Shawnee, will host a gift and craft bazaar from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

on Oct. 23 in McDevitt Hall. A wide variety of items from more that 40 vendors — ranging from jewelry and antiques to home décor — will be available. A continental breakfast, lunch, and afternoon refreshments will be provided by the St. Joseph Garden Club at nominal cost. For information, call Shannon Foley at (913) 302-8505. The Lansing Knights of Columbus will host their annual tasting fair, raffle and auction at 6:30 p.m. on Oct. 23 at St. Francis de Sales Church, 900 Ida. Proceeds will benefit the parish and other charities in the Leavenworth/Lansing community. The Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women will meet briefly at 8:30 a.m. on Oct. 23 before the Day of Boundless Joy retreat at the Savior Pastoral Center. All women are welcome to attend.

Bishop Ward High School will host its annual auction, “Our Destiny Is Our

Legacy,” at 6 p.m. on Oct. 23 at the Jack Reardon Center at Hilton Garden Inn, 520 Minnesota Ave., Kansas City, Kan. Tickets cost $60 per person. For information, call Amy Nelson at (913) 371-6901; send an e-mail to her at: anelson@ward high.org; or visit the Web site at: www. cyclonecountry.org.

23-24 2700 S.E. Virginia, Topeka, will host a

St. Matthew Parish, fall

festival on Oct. 23 - 24. A 5K run/walk will

take place at 9 a.m. on Oct. 23. A chili supper and cookie contest will follow the 5 p.m. Mass. On Oct. 24, a turkey dinner will be served from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. There will also be outdoor games and booths for all ages.

24 The Flower Circle No. 503, will

Daughters of Isabella, Little meet at 1 p.m.

on Oct. 24 at Rossiter Hall, 204 S.W. 8th St., Topeka. A rosary for deceased and sick members will precede the meeting.

A pancake breakfast will be held from 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. on Oct. 24 in the parish hall at St. Patrick Church, 1086 N. 94th, Kansas City, Kan., to benefit the Sisters, Servants of Mary. The cost is $6 for adults; $4 for children under 10 years old. The Mary Health of the Sick Guild will also be selling baked goods and homemade strudels. Holy Angels Church, Garnett, will host a fall bazaar on Oct. 24. A turkey and beef and noodles dinner with all the trimmings will be served from 11 a.m. 2 p.m. The cost is $8 for adults; $5 for children 10 and under. Carryouts will be available for $9. Mater Dei-Holy Name Church, 1114 S.W. 10th, Topeka, will host Benediction and a Divine Mercy Holy Hour at 3 p.m. on Oct. 24. Fellowship will follow.

25 & 27

Stanley Villavicencio, from the Philippines, will offer a presentation of hope, prayer, miracles and trials at 7 p.m. on Oct. 25 at Mater Dei-Assumption Church, 204 S.W. 8th Ave., Topeka, and again at 7 p.m. on Oct. 27 at Queen of the Holy Rosary Church, 7023 W. 71 St., Overland Park.

26 The

department of fine artsmusic at the University of Saint Mary will host its annual Halloween concert, “A Lit-

tle Fright Music,” at 7 p.m. on Oct. 26 in Xavier Theatre on the Leavenworth campus, 4100 S. 4th St. Audience members are invited to attend in costume. The concert is free and open to the public.

“The Musical of Tobit,” an entertaining interpretation of an Old Testament story, will be performed at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 27 at Good Shepherd Church, 12800 W. 75th St., Shawnee. Tickets cost: $15 for adults; $10 for children; or $50 for a family of four or more. For information or to purchase tickets, call (913) 631-7116 or visit the Web site at: www. goodshepherdshawnee.org.

The “Couples Talk” program will be offered from 1 - 2:30 p.m. on Oct. 27 at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. Improve your ability to communicate with those you love. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/ kwc.

A career transition ministry group will meet from 6:30 - 9 p.m. on Oct. 28 in the social room at Holy Trinity Church, 13615 W. 92nd St., Lenexa. Guest

speaker Danny O’Neill, owner of The Roasterie, will talk about networking. For information, contact Judy Ambler at (816) 225-8610 or send an e-mail to her at: judy.ambler@epcgconsulting.com.

“Comfort Foods: Casseroles and Crockpots,” a cooking class, will be offered from 9:30 - 11 a.m. on Oct. 28 at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/kwc.

The youth group of Immaculate Conception-St. Joseph Parish, Leavenworth, will host a fundraising art auction

on Oct. 29. The auction features art from Marlin Art of New York in all media and price ranges. Tickets cost $5 in advance; $10 at the door. A wine and cheese preview will begin at 7 p.m. and the auction will follow at 8 p.m. For information or to purchase tickets, contact the parish office at (913) 682-3953.

29-31

The Sophia Center, 751 S. 8th St., Atchison, will offer a retreat, entitled “Bridges To Contemplative Living,” from 7 p.m. on Oct. 29 through 2 p.m. on Oct. 31. This small group experience will gently lead participants into a deeper, more contemplative and reflective mode of living in God’s presence. The retreat will be facilitated by Sisters Sheila Carroll and Gabrielle Kocour, Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica and staff members of Sophia Center. For information or to register, call (913) 360-6151 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/ sophia.html.

30willThehold its annual

Catholic Education FounGaudeamus

dation dinner at 6:15 p.m. on Oct. 30 at the

Overland Park Convention Center, 6000 College Blvd. For information or to register, call (913) 647-0344 or visit the Web site at: www.cefks.org.

Holy Family Church, 513 Ohio, Kansas City, Kan., will host its annual Halloween dance from 7 - 11 p.m. on Oct. 30 in Mejak

Hall. Music will be provided by the Don Lipovac Orchestra. Tickets cost $12 per person. Hamburgers and hot dogs will

be available to purchase. Wear your favorite costume; children are welcome! For information or to purchase tickets, call Richard Schutte at (913) 669-3677 or Mike Waliczek at (913) 342-1785.

Sacred Heart Parish, Paxico, will host an old-fashioned German sausage supper from noon - 6 p.m. on Oct. 31 in the Knights of Columbus Hall in Newbury, located 1-1/2 miles north of Paxico. The cost is: $8 for adults; $3.50 for children ages 6-12; and $2.50 for children ages 2-5. There will also be bingo, a beer garden, a silent auction and games for all ages.

The Leavenworth Region of the Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women will host its quarterly meeting and potluck luncheon at 12:30 p.m. on Oct. 31 in the community room of the Leintz Funeral Home, 4701 10th Ave. For information, call (913) 682-8899.

Nov. 1

St. Agnes Parish, 5250 Mission Rd., Roeland Park, will celebrate vespers for the solemnity of All Saints at 7 p.m. on Nov. 1. The prayer service will include eucharistic adoration, singing the Litany of the Saints, and Benediction.

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann will preside at a special ceremony on Nov. 2 at 4:30 p.m. to bless and dedicate a cross in a section of Mount Calvary Cemetery, 38th and State, Kansas City, Kan., that has been newly designated for the Sisters, Servants of Mary. The eight-foot granite cross rises above the section of the cemetery recently donated to the Sisters by Catholic Cemeteries. For information, call (913) 371-4040 or send an e-mail to: catholiccemeterieskc.org. Catholic Cemeteries of Johnson and Wyandotte Counties will host two special All Souls Day Masses at 9:30 a.m. on Nov.

2 in the Prince of Peace Mausoleum at Resurrection Cemetery, 83rd and Quivira, Lenexa, and in the St. Joseph Mausoleum at Mount Calvary Cemetery, 38th and State Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information, call (913) 371-4040 or send an e-mail to: information@catholiccemeterieskc.org.

The Women’s Club of St. Ann Parish, 7231 Mission Rd., Prairie Village, will host its annual luncheon, card and game party from 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. on Nov. 4 in the parish hall. A suggested donation of $10 is appreciated. For reservations, contact Mary Cheney at (913) 4681026 or Bev Vyhanek (913) 362-7397. This event is not limited to women; men are welcome to attend.

4-6

The Ladies of Charity of Metropolitan Kansas City will host their annual holiday boutique from 4 - 7 p.m. on

Nov. 4, from 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. on Nov. 5, and from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. on Nov. 6 at the Ritz Charles, 9000 W. 137th St., Overland Park. There will be a “Cruising to the Emerald Isle” opening night gala reception on Nov. 4. Social hour will begin at 6:30 p.m.; dinner will follow at 7:30 p.m. Come enjoy an evening of dinner, live music, silent auction and a chance to win a trip to Weaver’s Lodge in Kenmare, Ireland. For ticket information and/or reservations, call Mary at (816) 363-7838. All proceeds

CALENDAR 13

will benefit Duchesne Clinic, Seton Center and Villa St. Francis.

The eighth-grade class of St. Agnes School, 5130 Mission Rd., Roeland Park, will host a bingo night from 7 - 10 p.m.

on Nov. 5. The cost is $5 in advance; $7 at the door. Advance tickets will be sold after all Masses during the weekends of Oct. 23 - 24 and Oct. 30 - 31.

Curé of Ars Parish, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood, will host its inaugural 5K and one-mile fun run and pancake breakfast on Nov. 6 at 9 a.m. on the church

grounds. For information or to register, visit the Web site at: www.cureofars5k. com. Donnelly College, 608 N. 18th St., Kansas City, Kan., will host “Donnelly Dash,” a 5K run/walk on Nov. 6 at the campus. Registration and check in will begin at 8 a.m., followed by the race at 9 a.m. Early registration costs $15 per person; $5 for students; children under age 12 are free. After Oct. 25, the cost is $20 per person. For information or to register, visit the Web site at: www.donnelly.edu/dash.

The Mother Teresa Circle will host a friendship tea at 10:30 a.m. on Nov. 6 in

Pflumm Hall at Holy Cross School, 8101 W. 95th St., Overland Park. Tickets cost $10 per person. For information or reservations, call Maxine at (913) 383-2014 or Donna at (913) 402-6843.

Good Shepherd Parish, 12800 W. 75th St., Shawnee, will host its annual fiesta in honor of its sister community, El Buen Pastor in El Salvador, after the 5 p.m. Mass on Nov. 6 in the parish hall. The cost is $7.50 per person in advance; $8.50 at the door. Children ages 5 and under eat free. For information or to purchase tickets, visit the Web site at: www.goodshepherdshawnee.org.

A healing Mass in honor of St. Peregrine, patron of those suffering from

cancer or other serious illnesses, will be celebrated at 9 a.m. on Nov. 6 at Holy Spirit Church, 11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park. The sacrament of anointing of the sick will be offered. There will also be special devotions and a blessing with a first-class relic of St. Peregrine. For information, call the parish office at (913) 492-7318 or Marge Hattrup at (913) 4927682.

The Militia of the Immaculata Ave Maria Village will meet at 10:30 a.m. on Nov. 6 in the banquet hall at Redemptorist Church, 3333 Broadway, Kansas City, Mo.

In celebration of the feast of Holy Relics, several first-class relics will be on display for veneration. For information, call Christine Rossi at (913) 268-0208.

The Catholic Women’s Organization at Holy Angels Parish, 154th and Leavenworth Rd., Basehor, will host its annual

craft fair from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Nov. 6 in

Father Quinlan Hall. Twenty-five booths will feature such items as dried flower arrangements, woodworking, wreaths, jewelry and Christmas crafts. Refreshments will be available. For information, contact Annie Clark at (913) 724-2212.

Calendar items must be received nine days before the publication date. E-mail submissions are preferred; send to: jennifer@theleaven.com. Submissions may be mailed to: 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109.

14 COMMENTARY

THE LEAVEN • October 22, 2010

Mark my words

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

Quote Week

of the

“We’ve got a gold mine going here.”

eBay team leader Ron Behm See story on page 1

thirtieth WEEK IN ordinary time Oct. 24 Thirtieth SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Sir 35: 12-14, 16-18; Ps 34: 2-3, 17-19, 23; 2 Tm 4: 6-8, 16-18; Lk 18: 9-14 Oct. 25 Monday Eph 4:32 — 5:8; Ps 1: 1-4, 6; Lk 13: 10-17 Oct. 26 Tuesday Eph 5: 21-33; Ps 128: 1-5; Lk 13: 18-21 Oct. 27 Wednesday Eph 6: 1-9; Ps 145: 10-14; Lk 13: 22-30 Oct. 28 SIMON AND JUDE, APOSTLES Eph 2: 19-22; Ps 19: 2-5; Lk 6: 12-16 Oct. 29 Friday Phil 1: 1-11; Ps 111: 1-6; Lk 14: 1-6 Oct. 30 Saturday Phil 1: 18b-26; Ps 42: 2-3, 5cdef; Lk 14: 1, 7-11

cef centered

Now, why didn’t I think of that?

can’t help it. Every time a cashier does this, my heart seems to skip a beat. It’s probably happened to you as well. You hand over a $20 bill, for example, and the cashier will swipe a special pen over it to make sure that the money is genuine.

I’m sure that there are many people we have to “thank” for this cautionary behavior, but one of them is certainly Emanuel Ninger, who in the late 1880s became known as “Jim the Penman” because of his counterfeiting skills. The motivational speaker Zig Ziglar tells a variant of Ninger’s story in his book, “See You at the Top.” According to Ziglar, Ninger used to pay for his groceries each week with a $20 bill. All went well until one day the clerk noticed some smudges on her sweaty hands. She picked up Ninger’s $20 and saw smudges there as well. She then showed the money to her manager. Naturally, the guy called the police and the bill was declared counterfeit. The clerk fingered Ninger as the culprit. After getting a warrant, the police raided Ninger’s apartment and found an easel to which a genuine $20 bill was clipped. Apparently, the counterfeiter would hand paint each $20 bill. Supposedly, a police search of Ninger’s attic yielded three portraits that Ninger had painted, which brought in $5,000 a piece at auction. The funny thing is, it took Ninger about the same time to paint a $5,000 portrait as it did

to hand paint a $20 bill. (Adapted from a story found in Brian Cavanaugh’s “Fresh Packet of Sower’s Seeds.”) Whether or not the above story is true, it does point out that we humans can be incredibly creative when it comes to thievery. Granted, most of these misguided attempts end badly — as documented in shows like “World’s Dumbest Criminals” — but, still, the perpetrators’ ingenuity is fascinating. On hearing these stories, I’m always left with the question: Why didn’t this felon use his creativity for good, rather than evil? Why didn’t Ninger, for example, stick to painting portraits of living, paying customers rather than portraits of dead presidents on fake currency? After all, both apparently took the same amount of time. Happily, at least here in the archdiocese, people are using their creativity and ingenuity for good, not evil. Our cover story this week is a great example of what can be accomplished when creative people put their minds to work. TurnStyles, the thrift store that Catholic Charities operates in Overland Park, is now using eBay to bring in even more much-needed funds. Several years ago, probably like a good number of people, I thought that eBay would be my gateway to untold fortunes. I checked out a couple of books on eBay from the library, to see how easy it would be to sell my unwant-

ed stuff. I could see an island retreat in the Pacific in my future. Poring over the books, however, and seeing what type of products sold, the steps to put items up on eBay, the time involved in preparing and shipping them . . . well, let’s just say that my enthusiasm quickly evaporated, along with my island paradise dreams. Now my eBay dreams are back — but with a twist. For now the focus is not on what eBay can do for me, but on what it can do for Catholic Charities. While I can’t imagine that I have any hidden treasures among my possessions that could turn into a bonanza for TurnStyles, I do have unused stuff in my closets and drawers that can be a treasure of sorts for others. I’m feeling an urge to get them out of the door here and into the sorting room at TurnStyles. Economically, it’s still rough out there for many people. In such a climate, it’s easy to think that we’ve got nothing to give to others. Perhaps a little creative thinking is in order — and no, I’m not talking about counterfeiting money like Ninger did! Instead, one of the ways that we can help others is by going through our homes and identifying just a few items that we no longer use or love . . . or even know we have. If you’re an avid eBay user, why not put those items up for sale and donate at least part of your profit to a worthy organization? Or maybe you’ll just be lazy like me and drop off the items at TurnStyles and let them see if a treasure might be lurking there to post on eBay. Or consider donating some time at TurnStyles or at another nonprofit as a volunteer or a “treasure hunter.” And now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got to check out eBay to see just how much this bowling ball ice bucket I have might be worth to TurnStyles.

word to life

Jesus came for sinners, not the self-righteous

s he walked to the pulpit, the visiting priest’s gait was slow, consistent with his 80-some years. His voice, once he began telling us about himself, was somewhat highpitched and scratchy with age — and surprisingly appealing. His white hair, grown long and curly, swept back from his high African-American forehead, giving him the look of a patriarch depicted on a holy card. The priest, a member of the Society of the Divine Word, had spent 50 years in mission work, after first havThirtieth SUNDAY ing been refused IN ORDINARY TIME entrance to the Lk 18: 9-14 seminary by his bishop and several seminaries on the basis of his “poor health.” A bad call on their part. Finally, he applied to the seminary for the Society of the Divine Word, a religious order founded by a sickly priest, he told us. “They had to take me,” he quipped, to laughter. For 50 years, he had been bringing the good news, “the Gospel,” he intoned brightly, to add emphasis, to people around the world. He had, in the procession of the

“For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”

— Lk 18:14b

years, been poured out like a libation to the Lord in the service of the Gospel. And, like Paul, he could well say he had competed well, he had finished the race. But instead he read the story of the prodigal son with dramatic emphasis, composed of pauses, changes of pitch and rhythm that communicated nuances one might never have thought of, as though it had just happened and he was conveying with wonder the forgiveness of the father. As Jesus’ parable of the self-righteous Pharisee and the tax collector shows us in this week’s readings, this Divine

commentary 15

Calling all angels . . . of Catholic education

t has been five months since we last communicated. I have missed you! I hope you feel the same.

This is the first of a two article series on “angels.” I am told that I should do the series thing to pique the interest of the reader — by doing so you will be waiting with bated breath for the second writing. Growing up, on occasion (no comments, please on the timing), my mom would say to me; “You are such an angel!” OK, I do admit it was once in a blue moon. I never really thought much about angels — until now. It begs the question: “What is an angel?” The Catholic Church tells us that angels are messengers. The Old

Testament explains that angels are employed by God as the ministers of his will. In the New Testament, their names appear on almost every page. Others would say that angels are there to assist and that each person has a guardian angel that is with us every day of our lives, looking over our shoulder to protect us and make sure we are kept safe. Further, angels are there to be our guiding light and show us how to live and show us how to give.

It is easy for a skeptical mind to see in these angelic hosts the mere play of fantasy and the growth of superstition. However, I suggest that each of us just needs to open our eyes and consider things happening around us every day. For example, thanks to our Catholic Education Foundation “Angels Among Us” (733-plus donors), 1,138 kids, who would not otherwise be able to attend, were able to go to Catholic schools this past year in our archdiocese. Angels would tell us that all children who seek a Catholic education, one that offers both quality and faith, should be given that opportunity in the name of Jesus, regardless of their socioeconomic situation. When we consider that these children are an integral part of the future of the Catholic Church, if this is not angelic, then I

don’t know what is! On Oct. 30, the Catholic Education Foundation will be celebrating the gift of Catholic education at our annual Gaudeamus dinner. On this night we will be honoring the Straub family as this year’s “Angels Among Us.” I encourage each of you to consider attending this event and join over 1,000 other angels in this celebration of Catholic education! For more information on Gaudeamus, visit the Web site at: www.cefks. org or call (913) 647-0344. OK, now is the time to start your bated breath thing! Michael Morrisey is the executive director of the Catholic Education Foundation. You can reach him at (913) 647-0383 or send an e-mail to him at mmorrisey@archkck.org

family matters

Women called to be a blessing to others

s we in the archdiocesan family life office prepared for our annual women’s “Day of Boundless Joy,” my thoughts kept returning to Pope John Paul II’s “Letter to Women.” The power of his words still rest gently in my memory. Pope John Paul hoped to move and challenge the minds and hearts of all women. There were many areas of a woman’s life that he opened up more fully with his thoughts. It was the resounding emphasis of the Godgiven dignity that has been bestowed on every woman, every daughter of

God, that he tried to most desperately convey. It would take a series of meetings for us to fully explore the depth of his words and the power of the gifts which God has graciously given us. I would like to quote a small portion of his “Letter to Women”: “Thank you, women who are mothers! You have sheltered human beings within yourselves in a unique experience of joy and travail. This experience makes you become God’s own smile upon the newborn child, the one who guides your child’s first steps, who helps it

to grow, and who is the anchor as the child makes its way along the journey of life. “Thank you, women who are wives! You irrevocably join your future to that of your husbands, in a relationship of mutual giving, at the service of love and life. Thank you, women who are daughters and women who are sisters! Into the heart of the family, and then of all society, you bring the richness of your sensitivity, your intuitiveness, your generosity and fidelity. Thank you, women who work! You are present and active in every area of life — social, economic, cultural, artistic and political. In this way you make an indispensable contribution to the growth of a culture which unites reason and feeling, to a model of life ever open to the sense of ‘mystery,’ to the establishment of economic and political structures ever more worthy of humanity. “Thank you, consecrated women!

Following the example of the greatest of women, the Mother of Jesus Christ, the Incarnate Word, you open yourselves with obedience and fidelity to the gift of God’s love. You help the church and all mankind to experience a ‘spousal’ relationship to God, one which magnificently expresses the fellowship which God wishes to establish with his creatures. “Thank you, every woman, for the simple fact of being a woman! Through the insight which is so much a part of your womanhood you enrich the world’s understanding and help to make human relations more honest and authentic.” While we are most richly blessed, we are also called to recognize the dignity that God has given to us and to be a blessing to those who lives we touch. Jacki Corrigan is the archdiocesan consultant for the office of family life.

planning? Word priest let us know that Jesus came for sinners, not the selfrighteous. He told us with such conviction and passion that one couldn’t help but believe that Jesus was the source of compassion for the fallen that we’ve always known him to be. Then, to make sure we put feet under our own compassion, he appealed to us to help rebuild a new church in Swaziland in such a way that we felt personally connected to their need. He was, after all, making a missionary appeal. And the church is, after all, composed of brothers and sisters of the same Father.

Creative Planning, Serving families just like yours. Financial planning, wealth management, retirement planning, charitable giving Mark Henke JD, (913) 742-7209 henke@thinkingbeyond.com

Wagner’s Mud-Jacking Co. Specializing in Foundation Repairs Mud-jacking and Waterproofing. Serving Lawrence, Topeka and surrounding areas. Topeka (785) 233-3447 Lawrence (785) 749-1696 In business since 1963

16 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • october 22, 2010

Thrift store donations stock Charities’ cyber sales site Continued from page 1 “And I got quite a bit more than $3 for it,” White added. And that’s what it’s all about. Since the eBay Team was formed four years ago, it’s sold product in all 50 states and 30 countries around the world, generating more than $56,000 for Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas.

A gold mine

“We’ve got an incredible operation that is just doing phenomenally well, thanks to the support of our volunteers,” said Doug Copland, director of in-kind donations for Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas. “We’ve got a gold mine going here,” agreed head volunteer and eBay team leader Ron Behm. Behm, a member of Holy Spirit Parish, came to his position reluctantly. He had no experience with eBay and very little experience with a computer. But he was recruited for more important qualities — an extensive background in sales and a natural ability to organize and motivate people. Retired for years from the commercial finance business, Behm was a seasoned volunteer with Catholic Charities when volunteer coordinator Mary Kay Drees asked him to launch TurnStyles eBay. He agreed to give it a try and got a crash course in cyber sales from two college students interning at TurnStyles for the summer. “It was the first of August,” said Behm. “And the girls reminded me that they wouldn’t be around for very long, so I’d better pay attention and take notes.” Behm then proceeded to recruit three other retirees, including White, and the four men struggled together to learn the ropes of managing an online store. “For two-and-a-half years, it was just the four of us,” said Behm. “Then I got the idea that we should get more volunteers, and each of us take a day with two volunteers.” Now, when fully staffed, the eBay team consists of 15 volunteers divided into five three-member teams. Each team works one afternoon a week. “Work” might be a bit of a misnomer, however, if the volunteers’ enthusiasm is anything to go by. “It’s really fun finding something and making a sale and making a little bit of extra money for Catholic Charities,” said White. And that’s the way it should be, as far as Behm is concerned. “Believe me,” he said. “If coming in here and working on eBay is a job for you, you’re not going to be very interested in it for very long, because our pay is not commensurate.”

Sold and shipped

The most enjoyable part of the process, team members agree, is the treasure hunt. “A lot of times you don’t find much,” said White. “And a lot of times you find a bonanza.” “At TurnStyles the stuff comes in by the truckload,” said Behm. “If you think you missed something, come back in an hour or two.” Curé of Ars, Leawood, parishioner Bess Michaelson is on the eBay team and also volunteers in the thrift store on Fridays — that’s when she shops for her product. “People know I’m on eBay so they save stuff for me,” she said. “Plus, in the sorting room, they know to save good

Mill Valley High School students Geena Gunter (left) and Casey Wicwel are volunteer sorters at TurnStyles, looking for items that might sell on eBay. Members of the eBay team usually choose items they have a special interest in to post for sale. Team leader Ronald Behm lays clam to boots, musical instruments and model trains.

Buy from TurnStyles eBay store Anyone can check out and bid on items for purchase by Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas by going to the TurnStyles eBay link at: http://www.catholic charitieskc.org. stuff in the barrel. If there’s something you’re interested in, you take it out.” The barrel Michaelson refers to is a treasure trove of eBay-salable items identified by volunteers as they sort incoming donations. Behm refers to the sorters as the eyes of the eBay team. “Bob [Neugent] is the assistant store manager over there and he’s one of my eyes,” said Behm. “Bob brought me an Oakley watch the other day.” “I just found it randomly in a bag of clothes.” Neugent said. “This is the kind of thing someone will put a $10 price on [in the thrift store]. I bring it here and try to get a little more money.” The watch sold on eBay for $372. Once members find an item, the process is to research its value on the Internet, write a description, photograph the item and then finally list it on eBay. Team members can track bids and answer inquiries from their computers at home. “We’re pretty flexible,” said White. “You do need to come in [to TurnStyles], but how much of the work you want to

do there or at home is up to you.” Through an application called Mission Fish, eBay allows nonprofits to identify themselves as such. Buyers know when they make their purchase that, by doing so, they’re supporting Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas. Although developing an eye for valuable items takes time, the learning curve for the sales process itself is not steep. By the time members have sold, boxed and shipped their fourth item, said Behm, they know what they’re doing. “I’m proud of the fact that we offer people an opportunity to volunteer their time, and we’ll give them a skill,” he said.

Motivation

“Our average sale is probably $25 on a listed item,” he said. “But when we have some real personal successes, we try to recognize those individuals.” Behm has what he calls a “sale of the week” book in which he records the best sales with pictures of team members holding their most valuable finds. “We try to track the home runs, so to speak,” he said. Behm also has a bulletin board in the sorting room where he acknowledges volunteers who have found exceptional eBay items. “The ladies back there are really interested in whatever happened to that watch or whatever happened to that

teapot,” he said. “So it’s a real morale booster for them to know they found something valuable.” Some recent home runs include: • Rogers Brothers antique silver plate flatware — $610 • An antique German grandfather wall clock — $300 • A metal detector — $420 • A George Jensen sterling silver bracelet — $455 • A mosquito magnet — $150 “And those successes don’t come from any particular skill set,” said Behm. “It’s called luck.”

Moving forward

TurnStyles recently achieved the red star rating on eBay, which means it has been rated by 1001 buyers. “I think all but about five of them gave us excellent ratings,” said Behm. “I guarantee you every automobile company in the country would like to have the kind of ratings we have.” But Behm isn’t one to rest on his laurels. He’d like to see the eBay team expand and raise even more funds for Catholic Charities. ‘There’s enough inventory here,” he said. “I’d like to have a morning group and an afternoon group. “It would be great if I could expand from 15 to 30 [volunteers] and get some real productivity going.” After four years on the eBay team, White highly recommends the experience to other volunteers. “It’s satisfying in that you learn some new skills, you’re able to help the charity and it’s also fun,” he said. “Plus, you learn things,” he added. “I didn’t know anything about Hollerith punch card machines. And now I do.”