11 10 17 Vol. 39 No. 14

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 39, NO. 14 | NOVEMBER 10 , 2017

Deacon Justin Hamilton is all smiles as he sits with his family at his ordination Mass on Nov. 4 at Christ the King Church in Topeka.

Deacon Hamilton lies prostrate before the altar while the congregation sings the Litany of the Saints.

Father Jamie Zarse performs the ancient rite of the laying on of hands.

JUSTIN TIME

Father Justin Hamilton emerges from his ordination Mass at Christ the King Church in Topeka to applause from his fellow priests.

Family shares the moment with the archdiocese’s newest priest

T

OPEKA — Love.

That’s the one word Father Justin Hamilton used to describe his ordination day.

“I don’t know how one heart can hold that much love,” he said.

For the new priest, the love was shown in the hundreds who participated in his ordination, including brother priests, parishioners, friends and family.

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann ordained the new priest on Nov. 4 at Christ the King Church in Topeka before a crowd of approximately 900.

The next day, the new priest celebrated a Mass of

STORY BY MARC AND JULIE ANDERSON PHOTOS BY LORI WOOD HABIGER thanksgiving at St. Joseph Church, one of two parishes in use by Sacred Heart-St. Joseph Parish in Topeka. Father Hamilton grew up in both Christ the King and Sacred Heart-St. Joseph parishes.

In his homily, Archbishop Naumann said the archdiocese and the church owe “a debt of gratitude” to the family of Father Hamilton, especially to his parents, Dave and Linda Hamilton, who served as his first teachers in the faith and provided an example of living out a vocation with commitment and love.

“The church is grateful,” said Archbishop Naumann. But it wasn’t only the new priest’s parents that the archbishop thanked.

“You also played an important role,” the archbishop told Father Hamilton’s five siblings: Brian Hamilton, Amy Hamilton, Angela D’Souza, Joseph Hamilton and Bethany Knight.

You helped him “to grow in virtue,” the archbishop told them, “just as he probably provided you opportunities to grow in virtue.”

In the days leading up to the ordination, all five siblings found themselves excited for their brother.

While playing the organ at the Holy Hour the day before, Brian Hamilton was hit by the fact that >> See “SIBLINGS” on page 7

NOVEMBER 10, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

ARCHBISHOP

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Please pray that all our priests deserve the title ‘Father’

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his past Saturday was a bishop’s dream day! It was my privilege to ordain a new priest — Father Justin Hamilton.

Our newly minted priest has been serving as a transitional deacon at Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood and as chaplain for Bishop Miege High School. He will continue in both assignments, only now as a priest.

At the reception following the ordination, I was conversing with some Bishop Miege students, who were thrilled to participate in the ordination ceremony.

They commented that it will take some time to get used to calling their chaplain “Father” instead of deacon.

Ironically, the readings for last Sunday’s Mass contained the admonition by Jesus to his disciples: “As for you, do not be called Rabbi. You have but one teacher, and you are all brothers. Call no one on earth your father; you have but one Father in heaven. Do not be called Master; you have but one master, the Christ.”

Protestants will sometimes cite this passage from the 23rd Chapter of Matthew to challenge Catholics regarding our custom of calling our priests “Father.” They believe that we are directly ignoring the request of Jesus.

It is somewhat ironic that these same Catholic critics have no difficulty calling biological fathers — “father.”

They also seem unaware that the early Christians did not interpret this

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN teaching by Jesus to eliminate the use of the word “father” from the Christian lexicon for the leaders of their communities.

St. Paul in his First Letter to the Corinthians addresses the recipients of the letter as “my children.”

St. Paul writes: “For though you have countless guides in Christ, you do not have many fathers. For, I became your father in Christ Jesus through the Gospel. I urge you then to be imitators of me” (4: 15-16).

St. Paul understood that his spiritual fatherhood of the church in Corinth was a result of his union with the divine fatherhood of God. From her very beginning, the church has used the title “Father” for the spiritual leaders within the community. In part, one of the reasons “Father” has been for Catholics the preferred title for our pastors is because it expresses the familial character of the church.

The church is called

to be a family, not a corporation or bureaucratic organization. We are united not because of some contractual relationship, but because we share the same life of Jesus Christ.

Through the waters of baptism, we became brothers and sisters in Jesus Christ and adopted sons and daughters of his Father. Naturally, we call “Father” those human instruments God uses to make us his children and to lead our spiritual families.

For priests, the title “Father” communicates our responsibility to protect and provide for the spiritual families entrusted to our care. Just as a biological father is willing to make any sacrifice for the welfare of his children, so priests are called to be willing to make any sacrifice for the spiritual benefit of their spiritual children.

Biological fathers will work several jobs to provide well for their family and give up personal comforts and pleasures for the good of their children. Priests are called to be willing to make similar heroic sacrifices for the welfare of their parishioners.

Recently, I was at an event where one of our

lay leaders in the archdiocese shared that part of his motivation for his high level of involvement in the church is the result of the fatherly care extended to his family by his childhood pastor.

His mother was a widow with several small children. The pastor of the parish made certain that he and his siblings were able to attend the parochial school. This pastor made certain that his mother received the necessary support from her parish family.

One of the special patrons for our archdiocese is St. John Mary Vianney, often popularly referred to as the Curé of Ars. To conclude my homily at the Mass of ordination for Father Justin Hamilton, I read the following passage from what is considered the definitive biography of St. John Vianney: “Long before the first rays of dawn appeared on the horizon, whilst Ars was as yet plunged in deep sleep, a flickering light might have been seen in the cemetery that surrounded the church. At that hour Father Vianney, lantern in hand, passed from his house into the church.

The good soldier of Jesus Christ was going to his post of intercessor for the people. He went straight up to the chancel (sanctuary), where he prostrated himself on the ground. There he poured out his heart, full of ardent desires, heavy already with many sorrows. During these silent hours of the night, he prayed aloud that the Lord would show pity to

ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN

Nov. 27 Leavenworth regional priests meeting

Nov. 10-16 U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops meeting — Baltimore

“Shepherd’s Voice” recording

Nov. 18 Archdiocesan Encuentro Mass and lunch — Savior Pastoral Center Nov. 19 Crosier Mass and brunch — Savior Pastoral Center

Nov. 28 Retired priests meeting Confirmation — St. Stanislaus, Rossville

ARCHBISHOP KELEHER Nov. 10 St. Martin of Tours Mass — St. Michael the Archangel, Leawood

Baptism of third or more children — Cathedral Nov. 20 Finance Council meeting Confirmation — Annunciation, Baldwin City Nov. 21 Envisioning Team meeting

Nov. 11-14 U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops meeting — Baltimore Nov. 16 Confirmation — Immaculate Conception, St. Marys Nov. 19 Mass — Federal prison camp

Administrative Team meeting Nov. 22 Chancery staff Thanksgiving Mass and breakfast Nov. 23 Thanksgiving Day

pastor and flock alike.

My God, he pleaded, grant me the conversion of my parish; I am willing to suffer all my life whatsoever it may please you to lay upon me; yes, even for a hundred years am I prepared to endure the sharpest pains, only let my people be converted.

And he bathed the pavement with his tears. At break of day, he was still at his post.”

Please pray for me,

Nov. 23 Thanksgiving Day Nov. 26 Mass — Federal prison camp

Father Justin Hamilton, and all our Kansas City, Kansas, priests that we may have this same burning passion for the spiritual welfare of our parishioners.

Pray that we may deserve the title “Father” because of our willingness to make any sacrifice for the holiness and therefore authentic and enduring happiness of those entrusted to our care.

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NOVEMBER 10, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

MEN OF HONOR

Curé of Ars parishioners honor ‘unknown’ soldier

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

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EAWOOD — Maureen Henderson can’t recall a funeral Mass quite like the one held at Curé of Ars Parish here Oct. 25.

“I have played lots of funerals in my career over the span of the years,” said Henderson, an organist for the parish.

“I don’t know that I’ve ever had a funeral be that big.”

But the funeral wasn’t for a dignitary or popular local.

It was for a retired veteran with no family or friends — an unknown soldier.

“On Saturday, I got a call in the morning from Porter Funeral Home,” said Father Rick Storey, pastor of Curé.

Rick Wiseman, a director at the funeral home, called Father Storey to ask if he would say a funeral Mass for David St. John, an 80-year-old Air Force veteran who had died.

At the time Father Storey agreed to the request, he didn’t even know the man’s name.

St. John’s neighbor, who had only spoken to him a few times, explained to Father Storey that the man’s last wishes included a simple Catholic funeral Mass.

But because they didn’t expect anyone to show up, they planned to take the man’s ashes to the National Cemetery in Leavenworth and celebrate Mass after the burial.

“We thought, ‘No, we can do better than that,’” said Father Storey.

“There’s no reason for a soldier or anybody to have to be buried without anybody there,” he added.

Father Storey asked parishioners at all Masses that weekend if they would come to honor the unknown vet.

Over 1,000 people turned up.

“I don’t know when I have seen grown people coming and leaving there so emotional,” said Henderson.

Henderson received a call the evening before asking if she would play at the Mass.

“I switched things around because I was so honored to be asked,” she said. “I thought, ‘This is what our ministry is all about.’ It feels good to know you can share your talent and give back.”

Father Storey gave a homily at the Mass and Father Jerry Spencer, senior associate at Curé and chaplain of the Navy League of Greater Kansas City, offered a reflection following Communion.

Father Spencer’s connection to the military made the experience even more meaningful.

“I have a brother who was in the Navy, a cousin who was in the Air

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799) President: Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann

Holy Trinity School preps for special Veterans Day celebration

By Jan Dixon Special to The Leaven

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LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE MCSORLEY

Father Rick Storey, pastor of Curé of Ars Parish, Leawood, celebrates the funeral Mass of David St. John, an 80-year-old Air Force veteran. No one was expected to attend the funeral but, after Father Storey asked parishioners to consider attending, more than 1,000 showed up.

Force and a cousin who was in the New Mexico National Guard,” he said.

The opportunity to honor an unknown soldier meant a lot to him.

“Jesus gave us the command to love God and our neighbor,” he said.

“We came together to pray for our deceased neighbor who we didn’t know, but he was a member of the body of Christ, so we are bound to him by spiritual bonds,” he added.

And those who came together weren’t just parishioners — or even adults for that matter.

The entire Curé of Ars School attended, too.

Henderson, who has grandchildren in kindergarten and fifth grade at Curé, is certain it was a unique learning opportunity for them.

“I think it had to have been a very powerful day for that entire school,” she said.

“To know that they were getting out of school to do what’s important

— and that is to pray for someone they didn’t even know,” she added.

The students stayed after Mass to watch the Patriot Guard escort the hearse to Leavenworth.

“They were taking it all in and understanding what it means to serve your country,” said Father Storey.

“They were very taken by it.”

The funeral had a profound impact on the adult community of Curé as well, said Father Storey.

“A stranger who we took in totally has changed in many ways our faith,” he said.

He taught us, Father Storey continued, the gift of burying the dead.

“And in doing so, we realize life has only changed, not ended,” he said.

“How deep we all became in our spirituality with this man, knowing he’s our brother.”

“It really brought us all together,” said Father Storey. “This man that no one knew.”

Editor Rev. Mark Goldasich, stl frmark.goldasich@theleaven.org

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org

Reporter, Social Media Editor Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

Advertising Coordinator Beth Blankenship beth.blankenship@theleaven.org

ENEXA — Veterans Day is an opportunity to honor and thank those who have or are serving in the military. Sandwiched between Halloween and Thanksgiving, the day can often go unnoticed by kids.

But not at Holy Trinity School in Lenexa, where fourth- and fifthgrade students worked to prepare a special Veterans Day event to show their respect and appreciation for those who have served our country.

In an interview before the event, students were excited about the music for their Nov. 9 concert.

“Our goal is to sing songs that will make the veterans feel appreciated,” explained Ava Wickenhauser.

The classes learned all of the lyrics to the official songs for the different branches of the military.

Holy Trinity families and teachers sent in pictures and military information about the veterans in their families. The principal’s grandfather, the music teacher’s father-in-law and the computer teacher’s dad were just a few of the uniformed veterans to be honored in a slideshow at the concert.

After discussions in class and with their parents, the students learned that veterans are everywhere, and they wanted to include more than just their families and their Catholic community in the celebration.

“We have a VFW right down the street, so we were able to reach out to the community,” said music teacher and organizer Andi Fredrickson. “They offered to provide the honor guard for the flag ceremony at the concert.”

Every student wrote a letter of thanks to a veteran; some wrote three or four. After presenting the letters to those attending the concert, the extra letters were to be sent to the VFW. >> See “CONCERT” on page 6

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NOVEMBER 10, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

4

Annual Gaudeamus event raises over $1 million for scholarships

By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org

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VERLAND PARK — When Bishop Ward senior Yaneli Jacinto took the stage at this year’s Gaudeamus event here, she talked passionately about the sacrifices her family had made so she and her brother could have a Catholic education.

“This is why receiving a [Catholic Education Foundation] scholarship was a big blessing to my family,” she said. “It lightened the load for my mother and enabled me to participate in the many extracurricular activities that Bishop Ward has to offer.”

Indeed, Yaneli is active in the National Honor Society, the Academy of Finance and the Key Club. She has played a variety of sports and has served on the student council, including a term as president.

She has earned college credit through classes supported by Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, and has great plans for her future.

“I want to go to a university and major in neuroscience,” she told the audience. “Then I hope to go to medical school to be a neurologist.”

Yaneli is the face of CEF, representing thousands of children whose lives have been changed by scholarships that allowed them to attend Catholic schools.

“In Catholic schools, the work was more challenging,” said Yaneli, who transferred to Resurrection Catholic School at the Cathedral in Kansas City, Kansas, when she was in fourth grade.

“Now, I’m grateful.

“The more challenging the courses, the better they helped me prepare for the future.”

This year’s sold-out event, chaired

by Pat and Shannon Lillis, had a record pledge amount totaling $1,143,457, so talented students like Yaneli can continue to benefit from a Catholic education.

A highlight of the evening’s festivities was the presentation of the Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann School of Excellence Award by Dr. Kathy O’Hara,

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CATHOLIC EDUCATION FOUNDATION

From left, Selina Valdivieso, Michaela Valdivieso and Ashley Espana-Lopez, all students of Christ the King School in Kansas City, Kansas, pass out programs to the Gaudeamus attendees.

CEF Futures Art Event Join the CEF Futures for appetizers and drinks at the CEF Art Event on Feb. 8, 2018, at the Boulevard Brewery. Art by local artists and aspiring CEF student artists will be available for purchase.

For ticket information, visit the website at: www.cefks.org or call Janet at (913) 721-1574.

superintendent of schools.

Yaneli’s alma mater, Resurrection Catholic School at the Cathedral, received the award for the fourth time.

In her acceptance, principal Lynda Higgins attributed the school’s excellence to the hard work and support of

parents, staff and faculty.

The annual Angels Among Us Award was renamed this year in honor of Michael and Patty Morrisey, who served respectively as CEF executive director and director of events for 14 years.

“They left those roles last year,” said board chair Terry Sexton. “And the board of directors could not conceive of an award big enough to recognize their distinctive contributions to Catholic education and to this foundation in particular.

“And so, henceforth, our annual Angels Among Us Award will be known as the Michael and Patty Morrisey Angels Among Us Award.”

The first recipients of the newly christened award are Stan and Suzan Cramer.

Stan Cramer served as Gaudeamus master of ceremonies for eight years.

41 Action News anchor Christa Dubill

took over those duties this year.

41 Action News also received the CEF Special Community Service Award for the support it has given CEF over the years.

Closing the event, the archbishop talked about how inspired he is during his frequent visits to archdiocesan Catholic schools.

He noted the teachers’ commitment to grow in their own faith life and to share that faith with students so they not only believe in God, but know that God loves them individually.

“So that no matter what happens to them in life,” he said, “they’ll have that inner strength and that capacity for joy and peace, even in the midst of the challenges of this world.”

He reminded the audience that our true goal isn’t just to get kids in college, “but to get them to heaven.”

Stan and Suzan Cramer honored for selfless service

By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org

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VERLAND PARK — The happy occasion was tinged with sadness when Stan Cramer accepted the Michael and Patty Morrisey Angels Among Us award at this year’s Gaudeamus.

Surrounded by family, he said, “You know when we were selected for this honor some months ago, I could not imagine it would be such a bittersweet moment.

“Sue was so looking forward to this.”

Stan’s wife Suzan passed away on Sept. 20.

“But she would want us all to go on with this work, bigger than ever,” said her husband. “She would want us all to continue to serve the needs of those less fortunate. And so we will.”

Through the volunteer efforts and support of the Cramers, CEF has been able to reach thousands of people with its objective of providing a Catholic education to every child who wants it.

“They’ve told the story of the importance of Catholic education — the story that Catholic education is not just there for those who have the means to pay for it,” said CEF board chair Terry Sexton.

Stan, formerly an investigative journalist for KCTV, served as master of ceremonies at Gaudeamus from 2009 to 2016.

“He’s been the voice of Gaudeamus,” said Sexton. “He spent countless hours editing videos, writing scripts, interviewing the CEF kids.”

Suzan was always at his side, sitting for hours with him scanning video footage for the faces and voices that could give the message of CEF in the clearest and most entertaining way.

In addition, Stan served on the CEF marketing committee and the Gaudeamus committee.

And Suzan was a key volunteer with the Gaudeamus committee, doing everything from stuffing envelopes to cleaning centerpiece vases.

“They worked so tirelessly for the benefit of thousands of kids,” said Sexton. “And we cannot possibly thank them enough for all of their talent and

the gifts they’ve shared with us over the years.”

The Cramers, parishioners of St. Michael the Archangel in Leawood, met while attending Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska.

They were married for 50 years, and have two married sons and six grandchildren.

Accepting the award, Stan thanked CEF patrons for all the opportunities they provide for children to have a quality Catholic education.

“Over the years, we’ve seen firsthand the result of the works you’re doing,” he said. “Emceeing this event and producing various videos enabled us to meet so many of the families and children who are stronger in their faith because of you.”

He acknowledged all the people who work behind the scenes to make Gaudeamus and CEF successful.

“You shouldn’t be honoring Suzan and me tonight,” he said. “So many others are far more deserving.

“But please accept my sincere thanks and that of our entire family for this honor and for letting us be part of something so great and so rewarding.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CATHOLIC EDUCATION FOUNDATION

Stan Cramer, above, and his wife Suzan were named the

Michael and Patty Morrisey Angels Among Us Award winners this year. Suzan passed away earlier this year.

NOVEMBER 10, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

5

Donnelly finds Success First at Holy Name

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

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ANSAS CITY, Kan. — It’s not every day students at Holy Name School here are visited by role models they can truly relate to.

“They look like those students, they talk like those students, they have the same perspective and background,” said Lisa Stoothoff.

The role models are students from Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, and they serve as an example of what the future can hold for the young students.

“We’re trying to show the elementary school [that] it’s not ‘Are you going to college?’ It’s ‘Let’s go to Donnelly College!’ or ‘Which college would you like to go to?’” said Stoothoff.

Stoothoff is director of Success First Programs at Donnelly, and the students who visited Holy Name Oct. 2 are part of Success First.

“Those students who score below the college level requirement for English composition are the students I accept into Success First,” said Stoothoff.

The program has two tracks: reading and writing, and intensive English.

“If you meet with Success First in our program, statistics have shown that you’ll flourish in college-level courses,” said Stoothoff.

Stoothoff created Project LOUD (literacy outreach in urban district) five years ago as a piece of the program, and every year she’s found a donor to support it.

This year, it was Royals Charities.

Project LOUD increases students’ reading and comprehension skills while also passing those skills on to younger generations.

“Oftentimes, [students] feel oppressed and they don’t understand their privileges,” said Stoothoff.

“We started looking at literacy as a privilege and what it can do for you,” she continued.

For six weeks, participating students work on reading and writing. The content the past two years has centered on poetry.

Their instruction leads up to the day they visit a grade school to read poems

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE MCSORLEY

From left, Angelina Arvizo, Alejandra Ojeda, Bianca Aguilar, Coby Diediker, Saul Contreras and Joel Ayala, all second-graders at Holy Name School in Kansas City, Kansas, ask Anali Hernandez Cruz of Donnelly College questions as part of the Success First Programs at Donnelly.

— including their own — to the students.

They also hand out a Donnelly tote bag with books and a bilingual flyer about literacy.

The school they visit varies each year, and this year they chose Holy Name.

Rocio Alonzo, a freshman at Donnelly who plans to study nursing, was nervous when she found out she’d be writing and reading her own poetry.

“To know I was going to talk in front of younger kids and their teacher — I was terrified, because public speaking has never been my thing,” she said.

But she overcame her fear and ended up enjoying it more than she expected.

“My favorite part about the project was being able to give back to my community, sharing my ability to speak English as well as Spanish, and inspiring our youth,” she said.

This year’s theme was “Journey.”

“Some of them wrote about being undocumented,” said Stoothoff. “Some of them wrote about their journey in life, living in a bilingual world.”

Students were exposed to poets like Langston Hughes and Emily Dickinson, as well as rap artists like Jay-Z and 2Pac. That approach not only engages the students but also helps showcase their own talents.

“I think that this experience helped me build confidence in myself and also confidence in my potential,” said Alonzo.

“This will help me communicate to everyone around me and be a productive member in my community,” she said.

The students at Holy Name were grateful for all the hard work Donnelly students put into the project, said principal Amanda Vega-Mavec.

“It’s important for all students to be exposed to all options beyond their current level,” she said.

“We appreciated exposing them to a local Catholic college,” she added, “exposing them to college students, exposing them to college students engaging with their community.”

Vega-Mavec hopes “they walked away with an even greater love for reading and a willingness to share that love of reading, knowing they can talk about poems and stories they enjoy beyond their classroom walls, just as the Donnelly students did with us.”

Stoothoff’s goal is to reach even more Kansas City schools, but a lack of resources is the biggest hindrance.

“If every college could do this type of service learning, we could hit all of the schools in the Kansas City area,” said Stoothoff. “Right now, we don’t have the resources to do this.”

Stoothoff is grateful for the support of donors and hopes to be able to continue this project long term.

“My most important goal for [participants],” she said, “is trying to increase retention in my first-generation students through service learning. “[I want them to] make that shift to ‘Look at the privilege I have. “’I can read, I can write, I can teach others.’”

Praying as a couple forms foundation of faith

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — “If ever there was a time when couples and families needed resources of prayer and graces in their lives, it’s now,” said Deacon Tony Zimmerman.

This being so, isn’t there anything that can help them?

Yes, there is, said Deacon Zimmerman, lead consultant in the archdiocesan marriage and family life office.

Just in time for Advent, the School of Love and the marriage and family life office will host a special day to enrich the prayer lives of couples and families.

The Day of Enrichment for Couples and Family Prayer will be from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Dec. 2 at Prince of Peace Parish, 16000 W. 143rd St. in Olathe.

Prayer is the foundation of anyone’s spiritual life, said Deacon Zimmerman.

It only makes sense, then, that prayer should be the foundation of the family’s

spiritual life.

Even so, couples and families often do not pray together.

“Our relationship with God and prayer tends to be a very private experience,” he said. “And it’s hard, sometimes, to talk about where I am with God and my feelings about God with another, much less . . . pray about it with another.”

Beyond the rote prayers — which are certainly good — there is also the kind of prayer that is a conversation with God. “How comfortable are you — with your spouse sitting next to you — making that a shared conversation?” said Deacon Zimmerman. “I think a lot of people don’t feel comfortable doing that. And how do you model that for your children if you’re not doing it yourself?”

Libby DuPont, consultant in the marriage and family life office, agreed.

“Even if [the children] do go to Catholic school, they need to experience

prayer at home,” said DuPont. “What you do at home speaks most strongly to your children and validates what happens at school.”

The day of enrichment will consist of a series of presentations, followed by breakout times when families can discuss and pray together. An important element will be the importance of listening in prayer.

“You want to get your kids used to listening to certain voices, especially the voice of Christ,” said Mike Dennihan, executive director and founder of the School of Love. “If we can teach them different ways of listening, especially through the Gospels, I feel we will have passed them on to a greater Master.”

There will be something for families no matter where they are in terms of

prayer together, said Brad DuPont, consultant in the marriage and family life office.

“If you’re asking what’s the first step or the next step in prayer, you will find the answer here,” he added.

The day of enrichment will include lunch and a Mass celebrated by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann.

Session topics will include: “What Are You Looking For: How to Encounter Jesus in Prayer”; “Listening to the Voice of Jesus through Prayer”; and “Creating a Couple and Family Plan for Prayer.”

Parents are welcome to bring children, but child care will not be provided. There will be a kids area with toys and quiet activities to occupy children.

The cost to attend is $20; lunch is included. The registration deadline is Nov. 29. For information or to register, call Mary Anne Kierl at (913) 647-0345 or go online to: archkck.org/coupleand familyprayer.

NOVEMBER 10, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

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TOOLS FOR FAMILIES Growing as Disciples of Jesus

The little way of marriage St Thérèse of Lisieux became a great saint by doing small things with great love.

Small, sacrificial acts by a spouse strengthen the marriage. Pick three things each week that will demonstrate your love to your spouse, but research reminds us to make sure the acts are: • Easy to do • Acts you know your ARTWORK BY NEILSON CARLIN, 2015 spouse appreciates • Acts you would not ordinarily do • Teach your children to do the same for their siblings For more, visit the website at: www.JoyfulMarriage Project.com.

— Brad DuPont, consultant for the archdiocesan office of marriage and family life

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE MCSORLEY

Keyle Ellsworth writes a thank you letter to a veteran as part of the Veterans Day celebration planned for Nov. 9 at Holy Trinity School.

WEBSITE EXCLUSIVE

CHURCH OF THE WEEK

Concert, letters and prayers honor vets >> Continued from page 3

St. Pius X, Mission Address: 5500 Woodson Phone: (913) 432-4808 Pastor: Father Kenneth Kelly Mass times: Saturday, 4:30 p.m.; Sunday, 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Email: spxchurch@archkckcs.org Website: http://spxmission.org MORE PHOTOS AND A VIDEO TOUR of this church can be seen online at: www.theleaven.org.

WEBSITE EXCLUSIVE

TEAM OF THE WEEK

SOCCER

Bishop Miege The Bishop Miege boys soccer team defended their Class 4A state championship Nov. 3 in Olathe. Miege won 3-0 over Andover. The Leaven’s Jay Solder captured the action.

To see his photos, go to The Leaven’s Facebook page.

“We just want all veterans to know that we appreciate them,” said fourth-grader Elle Robinson.

Another token of appreciation came after Halloween, when the students contributed some of their candy to make treat bags for the veterans.

Sharing photographs, writing letters, classroom and family discussions, and learning lyrics prompted the students to consider the duties of a soldier. They all agreed that soldiers have to brave.

“Soldiers serve our country by defending the people in it,” Charlie Heinen explained.

And the sacrifices made by soldiers were also recognized by the students.

“They miss time with their families,” explained Jasmine Luck-Smith.

“They might miss a college graduation or the birth of a baby,” added Allison Mark.

Worst of all, said Mallie Irsik, “they might not even get to come back home.”

Veterans appreciate the efforts of the students and are thankful that the kids have food on their tables, have the right to wear what they want and the right to do what they want.

“It feels good to be recognized,” said Jim Bird, an Army veteran.

“And it makes me feel proud to be an American.”

The fourth- and fifth-graders at Holy Trinity School understand

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE MCSORLEY

From left, Philip Whiteside, Alexander Rueger and Louis Mullin attach prayer cards to their respective toy soldiers. As part of Holy Trinity’s Veterans Day celebration, students are praying for their assigned veteran. that the freedoms Americans enjoy are protected by its veterans. They understand and appreciate the freedom of living in their homes and attending a Catholic school. They are thankful to live in a country where people have civil rights.

In addition to preparing for the concert and sharing their Halloween candy, the students are holding veterans up in prayer as well.

They have attached prayers to little toy soldiers as a remembrance and a thank you.

“We will each take one home and put it somewhere safe,” said Rose Muehlberger. “We will say the

Cecilia and Dick Sandifer, members of St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary Oct. 31. The couple was married on Oct. 31, 1952, at Our Lady of Good Counsel, Kansas City, Missouri.

Their children are: Richard Sandifer, Michael Sandifer, Joanne Hanson and Laura Zauchenberger. They also have 14 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. They celebrate with their annual tradition of Dick dressing up like a gorilla for all the trick-or-treaters.

prayer every day for a veteran.”

Dominick Adams will be remembering his grandmother who was a nurse and a pilot. And Avery Johnson will be honoring her grandfather who served in the Navy.

Emmanuel Orego, meanwhile, will be thanking his mother’s friend who is in the Air Force. All of the children have made a connection with a veteran and want to honor them.

“All of our activities have helped students learn about veterans,” said Fredrickson. “They will remember and celebrate.”

JoEllen and Mark Criger, members of St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Lapeer, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Nov. 4.

The couple was married on Nov. 4, 1967, at St. Patrick Church, Chanute. Their children are: Mitchell Criger, San Diego, California; Becky Coltrane, Overbrook; and Polly Berkley, Overbrook. They also have seven grandchildren. A reception will be held in their honor on Nov. 19 from 2–4 p.m. at the Overbrook Public Library Community Room.

NOVEMBER 10, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Siblings proud, but not surprised >> Continued from page 1 the big moment for his brother had almost arrived.

“I was struck with the realization that my brother is going to be a priest tomorrow afternoon,” he said.

The realization filled him with joy, he said.

“I always called him ‘the saint of our family,’” he continued, adding his brother had always had a deep spirituality.

Brian was touched, too, during the actual ordination, when Archbishop Naumann, Archbishop Emeritus James P. Keleher and then the many priests in attendance performed the ancient rite of the laying on of hands.

“Just to see all those men who have committed their lives to Jesus,” he said, was amazing.

That was not the only moment that touched Father Hamilton’s siblings, though.

One part of the rite of ordination is when the soon-to-be-ordained man lies prostrate before the altar while the congregation sings the Litany of the Saints.

“That was an amazing, amazing moment,” Joseph Hamilton said, illustrating a man surrendering his life to God. Joseph said he always thought Justin would become a priest.

“He’s always had a deep prayer life developed from a very young age,” he said.

Amy Hamilton, too, said she was moved by the laying on of hands, as well as watching her brother’s hands be anointed with the sacred chrism.

“He has blessed hands,” Amy said.

“A simple act [of anointing] changed him into a priest forever.”

And being a priest is truly what her brother is called to do.

“Justin has the gift of a compassionate and understanding heart.

He has gone through many difficult times in his life, which has given him much more compassion and empathy for people. So I would consider Justin a very down-to-earth, loving and accessible person.”

One of Father Hamilton’s challenges occurred during his first

Father Justin Hamilton celebrates Mass at his ordination on Nov. 4 at Christ the King Church in Topeka. month in the seminary. He experienced a detached retina.

“It was a very scary experience for all of us. That first year was pretty tough because we had to help him with his studies by reading for him, since he wasn’t able to use his eyes after surgery,” Linda Hamilton said of her son.

Angela D’Souza, another sister, said Father Hamilton’s challenges have made him stronger and more patient.

“He has amazing insight, but he listens so carefully and patiently,” she said.

“I was so very excited to see the anticipation and joy in my brother’s eyes,” she continued. “He literally counted down the days, and I am so happy for him that he’s found so much joy and peace in following God’s call.”

Besides his siblings, the new priest has 15 nieces and nephews, ranging from toddlers to teenagers.

His oldest niece, Malena Hamilton, said seeing “all the priests giving him hugs” was “so cool.”

Her uncle, she believes, “is really close to God and always has great wisdom.”

For Father Hamilton’s parents, their son’s ordination is the culmination of their family’s life of faith.

“I never pushed him,” said his

father Dave. “I encouraged him. I felt that it wasn’t my place [to push him]. I just prayed that God’s will be done in his life. If God called him to a vocation to the priesthood, I would be profoundly happy.”

“Parents are the key to a child’s openness to a vocation,” he added.

“Parents plant the seeds to a child’s openness to a priestly or religious vocation by emphasizing the importance of prayer and sacraments and building godly virtue.”

Watching his son lie prostrate before the altar was an amazing moment, he said, calling it a “profound act of surrender.”

Witnessing her son surrender his life to Jesus, Linda said, was inspiring to her. It’s hard to adequately capture her feelings in a few words.

“The first Mass was definitely the best part of the whole weekend,” she said.

“The Mass is the summit of our Catholic faith, and I was very moved

by Justin’s first Mass being so reverent,” she continued, “and thinking about how my son is now a priest and can consecrate the bread and wine into the body and blood of Christ for the people.

“Plus, he’s already heard his first confession. It’s all overwhelmingly beautiful.”

Gospel choir to perform at parish revival Father Maurice Nutt will lead a revival Nov. 26-29 at Blessed Sacrament, Christ the King and Our Lady & St. Rose churches in Kansas City, Kansas.

The revival schedule is as follows: • Father Maurice will preach at the Sunday Masses on Nov. 26 at Blessed Sacrament Church, located at 2203 Parallel — 8 a.m.; Christ the King Church, located at 3024 N. 54th St. — 9:30 a.m.; and Our Lady & St. Rose Church, located at 8th and Quindaro — 11 a.m.

The Our Lady & St. Rose Gospel Choir will sing at the 11 a.m. Mass • Nov. 27-29 - Revival at Our Lady & St. Rose — 7 p.m. The Our Lady & St. Rose Gospel Choir will sing each evening.

Father Maurice is a member of the Redemptorist Parish Mission Preaching Team based in Chicago. He is also a member of the faculty of the Institute for Black Catholic Studies at Xavier University of Louisiana in New Orleans.

Keeler offers free women’s programs KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Keeler Women’s Center here, a ministry of the Benedictine Sisters, located at 2220 Central Ave., has the following free programs available: • Religious icons: Prayer panels Learn about icons through the ages, then draw, sketch and paint your own icon on Nov. 13 and 20 from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

(All materials will be provided.)

• Parenting support group Collaborate in finding ways to connect with children and form strong bonds on Mondays from 1:30 to 3 p.m.

• Thyroid health In partnership with Mercy and Truth, Dr. Alex Kieu will share valuable information to help attendees lead a healthier life on Nov. 14 from 1 to 2 p.m.

Call (913) 906-8990 or register online at: www.keelerwomenscenter.org.

Singles dance OVERLAND PARK — The Singles of Nativity will host its annual Christmas dance on Dec. 2 from 7 to 11 p.m. at Church of the Ascension here, located at 9510 W. 127th St. The cost of $20 at the door includes snacks and drinks. Enter the parish hall at the west entrance under the church. For more information, contact Ken Geier by email at: kag.geier@gmail.com

ANNUAL GOLUMBKI DINNER IN LEAVENWORTH

T

he St. Casimir Men’s Society will host its Annual Golumbki Dinner: Sunday, Nov. 19, in the St. Casimir Parish Hall at 719 Pennsylvania Ave., in Leavenworth. Dinner will be served from noon to 3 p.m. Takeout will be available beginning 11 a.m. Tickets cost only $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. Come join your friends in Leavenworth for this traditional Polish feast. Meatloaf will also be served.

AD COURTESY OF DOUG SCALARD, CFP®

Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas • Catholic Bequests

• Donor Advised Funds

• Gift Annuities

• Named Scholarship Funds

• Endowments

• Memorial Funds

Remember a gift to the church in your will

(913) 647-0325 CFNEK@archkck.org www.cfnek.org

7

PRIESTS ON THE RUN

Trio of priests run Berlin Marathon

By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

B

ERLIN — It might seem unusual to write prayer intentions on a marathon bib, but Father Scott Wallisch is not your typical runner.

The archdiocesan vocations director and a priest in residence at the St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, Father Wallisch was one of three archdiocesan priests who completed the Berlin Marathon on Sept. 24. Joining him were Father Nathan Haverland, pastor of St. Gregory Parish in Marysville, and Father Greg Hammes, pastor of Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish in Topeka.

The three started running together in 2008 when they lived at Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood. Father Hammes was newly ordained and associate pastor there, while Father Haverland and Father Wallisch, both seminarians, were engaged in pastoral work.

At the time, Father Wallisch challenged his two friends to a 5K. A 5K run is five kilometers or 3.2 miles.

The trio entered their first race together that summer. Since then, the priests have competed in numerous races of varying lengths.

Father Hammes said he’s lost count of the races he’s participated in. Since 2011, he has annually completed at least one marathon.

Yet, none of them had competed in a marathon beyond the region until Father Haverland competed in the Chicago Marathon last fall.

Once that Father Haverland caught what the other two men referred to as “the running bug,” he decided the threesome needed to find another marathon to compete in. And not just any marathon; they wanted to go to one of the six majors, held in Boston, Chicago, New York, London, Tokyo or Berlin.

Chicago didn’t hold much appeal for Father Haverland who had “been there, done that.” So, he considered the other destinations.

“Germany would be pretty awesome,” he remembered thinking, adding he had “never really considered visiting there.”

Somehow, Father Haverland convinced the other two that Berlin was their new destination — not that it took much convincing. Both priests had their own reasons for entering the race.

Father Hammes turned 41 on Oct. 2.

Last year, he wondered if his best running was behind him. He was proved wrong in Berlin.

He beat his personal best time, a record set several years ago, by at least one minute.

As satisfying as that was, Father

PHOTO BY FATHER SCOTT WALLISCH

Father Scott Wallisch carried the prayer intentions of many with him on his trip to Berlin, and during the race had only to glance at his bib to remind him of his intention for the next mile.

Hammes said one of the main reasons he agreed to the marathon was because it would take him to the land of his ancestors.

The trio arrived in Germany several days in advance. After enjoying a bit of Oktobefest, the priests traveled to the Moselle River Valley, site of a Hammes winery owned by Father Hammes’ distant cousins. Through them, he can trace his lineage to Johannes Hammes, born in 1657.

“They were so welcoming,” Father Hammes said. “I felt really connected to my roots.”

Meanwhile, Father Haverland, in only his second marathon, beat his previous time by nearly nine minutes, dropping from five hours 28 minutes to five hours 19 minutes.

“I’ll take it,” he said of his time.

And of crossing the finish line near the Brandenburg Gate, Berlin’s most famous landmark, he said, “It was just a beautiful moment.”

Father Haverland credits his parishioners with having encouraged him a lot in his months of training leading up to the race.

“Everybody was very proud and supportive,” he said.

In fact, all 115 students enrolled in the parish grade school surprised him after Mass the Friday before he left for Germany, treating him as if he was a major sports celebrity.

“It was really cute,” he said, noting it was “definitely a sight to see.”

Like the other two, Father Wallisch also exceeded his personal goal. He completed the marathon 16 minutes faster than expected. He had only planned to run about 15 or 20 percent and walk the rest, but got caught up in the excitement.

“I’m a runner,” he said.

Indeed. He ran roughly 15 of the 26.2 miles.

“It had been one of my bucket list items to do an international marathon,” Father Wallisch said. “That was pretty awesome. This might be the last [marathon] I ever get to do.”

The timing worked out well. While overseas, the archdiocesan vocations director was also able to go on to attend the transitional diaconate ordination of Carter Zielinski, a seminarian studying at the Pontifical North American College in Rome.

Prior to the trip, Father Wallisch posted a Facebook message asking for prayer intentions.

“I was overwhelmed by how many people wrote back with very specific intentions,” he said.

“I prayed a lot of rosaries,” he added.

Because the priest wrote all of the requests on his bib, every half-mile or so, he could look down and find the next one.

Prayer kept him going, said Father Wallisch, especially as he reflected on Europe’s secularization.

“I could just feel the absence of God there,” he said.

He had noticed few families there had more than two children. And Father Wallisch realized the same could happen to America if the faith is not passed onto the next generation.

But only days later, he was privileged to witness the love of “31 guys willing to lay down their lives for God and the church” in Rome, he said.

“That was a shot in the arm for my faith,” he continued.

Father Haverland also ran in the New York City Marathon on Nov. 5, finishing in a time of five hours twentythree minutes fifty-five seconds.

Father Greg Hammes, pastor of Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish in Topeka, takes in the view of the Moselle River Valley, site of a Hammes winery owned by Father Hammes’ distant cousins.

PHOTO BY FATHER NATHAN HAVERLAND

PHOTO BY FATHER NATHAN HAVERLAND

From left, Father Wallisch, Father Haverland and Father Hammes show off the medals they received for participating in the Berlin Marathon, in which each ran his personal best. The men are posed in front of a remaining segment of the infamous Berlin Wall.

Arriving several days before the marathon, from left, Father Hammes, Father Haverland and Father Wallisch were able to take in the sights of Berlin as well as enjoy Oktoberfest in Munich.

PHOTO BY FATHER NATHAN HAVERLAND

NOVEMBER 10, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

NATION

CNS PHOTO/KEVIN J. PARKS, CATHOLIC REVIEW

World War II, Korea and Vietnam War veterans greeted with hero’s welcome

10

Air Force veteran Paul Shepherd pushes the wheelchair of Vietnam War Army veteran Roger Campbell through a line of well-wishers greeting Honor Flights at Baltimore-Washington Thurgood Marshall Airport Oct. 21 in Baltimore.

By Kevin J. Parks Catholic News Service

L

INTHICUM, Md. (CNS) — As the orange glow of sunrise breached the horizon at Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, waiting travelers watched a Southwest Airlines jet taxi beneath a water cannon salute from the airport’s fire department.

“Good citizens of Maryland, travelers from afar,” announced Fred Taylor, a member of St. Mark Parish in Catonsville and the city of Annapolis town crier. “I bring news of great importance! Now arriving in the airport terminal: Honor Flight Cleveland, carrying veterans from World War II, Korea and Vietnam!”

Well-wishers, volunteers and active military personnel cheered, waved flags and held thank-you signs. Many in a crowd that numbered hundreds deep reached out to shake the hands of beaming military veterans as they came off the airplane from Ohio Oct. 21.

The flight’s arrival was the first of seven scheduled for “Super Saturday,” a day when four or more flights carrying veterans travel to the region for a day visit to Washington.

Honor Flight Network is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to sponsor and coordinate trips for aging veterans to see the monuments built in memory of their dedication and sacrifice.

Charles R. Cole, a Purple Heart recipient, was overcome with emotion as his son, David Cole, rolled him in a wheelchair past the cheering crowd.

“My dad was shot five times, and now he has five kids,” said David Cole, his voice cracking.

The trip was vitally important to Robert Dunn Jr. The Vietnam War veteran was recently diagnosed with terminal cancer, and planned to make what would most likely be a final visit to see the grave of his father, Robert Dunn Sr., at Arlington National Cemetery.

David Branstetter, a Navy special operations sniper and multiple Bronze Star recipient who served in Vietnam, wore his green military utilities complete with a beret, combat boots and numerous ribbons, pins and patches spanning his 30-year career from 1961 to 1991.

Conts Booth served with the Navy Seabees at the Battle of the Coral Sea in the Pacific Theater during the Second World War. His grandson, Scott Mills, said his grandfather was making his first plane ride at age 101.

For veterans who traveled alone, Naval Academy midshipmen acted as their companions.

“You never know what they’ve gone through until you hear their stories,” said Naval Academy junior Evanne Gillert, one of the companions.

CNS PHOTO/KEVIN J. PARKS, CATHOLIC REVIEW

World War II Navy veteran Edna Truby is greeted by the Giambone family among others at Baltimore-Washington Thurgood Marshall Airport Oct. 21 during a special Honor Flight welcome for veterans.

CNS PHOTO/KEVIN J. PARKS, CATHOLIC REVIEW

World War II Navy veteran Jim Cavanaugh, and his guardian, Scott Ray, are greeted by Naval Academy Midshipmen on Oct. 21 in Baltimore. The flight’s arrival was the first of seven scheduled for “Super Saturday,” a day when four or more flights carrying veterans travel to the region for a day visit to Washington.

Gillert remembered a Korean War veteran she accompanied last year to Washington who cried when he found his friend’s name on the Korean memorial.

Carrie Carter, a member of St. William of York Parish in Baltimore, volunteers with the ground crew. She also

volunteers with the United Service Organizations, or USO, welcoming home military personnel from Iraq, Afghanistan and other tours of duty.

Some 200 Honor Flights arrive at BWI between March and November, Carter said, with a break in the summer to avoid the intense heat.

“It makes me smile for the rest of my day no matter how bad it’s going,” she said of her service. “This is my passion.”

Carter was inspired to be a ground crew volunteer because of her former husband’s experience in Vietnam.

“We have a lot of bad memories,” Carter said, as she talked about how the aftermath of war took a toll on her marriage. It’s her objective to make sure all veterans feel welcome.

Taylor, the town crier who adds his talents to the arrival ceremonies, recalled an Honor Flight a few weeks before in which he met 91-year-old Marine veteran Judd Lebowitz, who served with the 4th Division, 23rd Infantry, F Company. From just yards away, Lebowitz told him, he had watched his countrymen raise the U.S. flag on Iwo Jima during World War II. “I was awe-struck,” Taylor told the Catholic Review, Baltimore’s archdiocesan media outlet. “It was hard to imagine meeting someone like that.”

The arrival ceremony ended with the town crier ringing a hand bell as he led veterans to waiting tour buses near the baggage claim area. Approximately 100 Naval Academy midshipmen and military personnel saluted as the U.S. Park Police led the escort for the veterans.

“It’s all worthwhile,” Taylor said, acknowledging the smiles and tears evident on the faces of the veterans.

NOVEMBER 10, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

WORLD

11

New book on John Paul I’s death could clear path to sainthood

By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service

V

ATICAN CITY (CNS) — Two women may hold the key to clearing up questions still surrounding the death of Pope John Paul I and to overcoming the first hurdle on his path to canonization.

Stefania Falasca, a journalist for Avvenire, the Italian Catholic daily newspaper, is the vice postulator of the sainthood cause of the pope, whose pontificate lasted only 33 days in 1978.

Although it no longer is unusual for a woman to serve as official promoter of a cause, she is the first to be vice postulator of a pope’s sainthood cause.

The exceedingly short term of a pope who was very popular and much less formal than his predecessors was enough to set rumors flying when he died Sept. 28, 1978. But Falasca believes the rumors were helped to become a full-blown conspiracy by a lack of transparency from the first hours of the pope’s death.

“Remember, it was 40 years ago,” Falasca told Catholic News Service Nov. 6. The pope’s priest-secretaries thought it would appear unseemly that women entered his bedroom and found him dead, so instead of acknowledging that the women religious working in the household found him, it was reported that the priests did.

“That was one of the elements that helped unleash the ‘noir,’” or the series of conspiracy theories and books that read like murder mysteries, she said.

Falasca has countered with her own book, “Pope Luciani: Chronicle of a Death,” which was set for a Nov. 7 release in Italian. Pope John Paul’s given name was Albino Luciani.

Also Nov. 7, the cardinals and bishops who are members of the Congregation for Saints’ Causes were scheduled to vote on whether to recommend Pope Francis formally recognize Pope John Paul lived a life of heroic Christian virtue and declare him venerable.

The recognition of “heroic virtues” is the first big step in the process.

Before beatification, Pope Francis would have to recognize as a miracle attributed to Pope John Paul I’s intercession one of the “presumed extraordinary healings” the postulation forwards to the Vatican. A second miracle is needed for canonization.

According to Falasca’s book, which is based on archival research and interviews, Pope John Paul and his secretary, then-Father John Magee, were reciting night prayer together at about 7:30 p.m. Sept. 28, 1978, when the pope

CNS PHOTO/COURTESY OF STEFANIA FALASCA

This is the cover of the book, “Pope Luciani: Chronicle of a Death,” which was set for release in Italian Nov. 7. The book by Stefania Falasca looks at the circumstances surrounding the death of Pope John Paul I, whose pontificate lasted only 33 days in 1978.

CNS FILE PHOTO

Pope John Paul I, whose pontificate lasted only 33 days in 1978, was found dead by women religious working in the household. It was initially reported that the pope’s priest-secretaries discovered him because the priests thought it would appear unseemly that women entered the pope’s bedroom. Now, people can learn what really happened in the last hours of his life. experienced chest pains. He refused to allow a doctor to be called, and the pain went away.

At 5:15 the next morning, as every morning, Sister Vincenza Taffarel, now deceased, put the pope’s cup of coffee outside his door. He would drink it on the way to his private chapel for early morning prayers.

Falasca’s book includes an interview with Sister Margherita Marin, now 76,

a member of the Sisters of the Holy Child Mary, who worked alongside Sister Taffarel.

“That morning the coffee was still there,” Sister Marin said. “After 10 minutes, Sister Taffarel said, ‘He still hasn’t come out? What’s going on?’ I was in the hallway. I saw her knock once and knock again. There was no response.”

Sister Taffarel went into the room, she said. “I heard her say, ‘Your Holiness, you

shouldn’t joke like that with me.’”

Sister Marin entered the pope’s bedroom. “The Holy Father was in bed, the reading lamp on the headboard was on.”

She said the pope had his arms above the sheet, holding some typewritten pages. He was wearing his glasses, but his eyes were half-closed.

“It really seemed like he was asleep,” she said. But his body was cold.

Nothing had fallen to the floor, she said. And there were no signs of thrashing, extreme pain or any disturbance.

The Sisters immediately called the pope’s priest-secretaries and, after saying a prayer with the sisters, the priests called the Vatican doctor. He determined that Pope John Paul had died of a heart attack late the evening before.

“Father Magee told us not to say it was we Sisters, me and Sister Vincenza, who found him dead in his room, because they had decided to say it was his secretaries who found him,” Sister Marin told Falasca.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican secretary of state, who, like Pope John Paul, is from Italy’s northern Veneto region, wrote the preface to Falasca’s book.

“After so much conjecture, so many reconstructions based on rumors without confirmation, we can now know what happened in the last hours of this pope’s life,” he said.

Pope names women as undersecretaries of office for laity, family, life

By Junno Arocho Esteves Catholic News Service

V

ATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Francis named a bioethics expert and a seasoned canon lawyer, both women, as undersecretaries of the Dicastery for Laity, the Family and Life.

The appointments of Gabriella Gambino, a bioethics professor at Rome’s Tor Vergata University, and Linda Ghisoni, a judge on the regional tribunal of the Diocese of Rome, were announced Nov. 7 at the Vatican.

Gambino was appointed undersec-

retary of the dicastery’s section for life, while Ghisoni was named to the section for the laity, the Vatican said.

Born in Milan in 1968, Gambino obtained her doctorate in bioethics at Rome’s University of the Sacred Heart.

She was named in 2002 as a scientific expert for the Italian National Committee for Bioethics. From 2013 to 2016, Gambino was also a featured speaker at various meetings sponsored by the former Pontifical Council for Laity and the Pontifical Academy for Life.

She also serves as a professor at the newly renamed Pontifical John Paul II Theological Institute for the Sciences of Marriage and Family and has

authored several books on life, marriage and the family.

Ghisoni was born in Piacenza in 1965. After completing her studies in philosophy and theology in Tubingen, Germany, she obtained her doctorate in canon law at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome. She did further specialized studies and earned diplomas from the Vatican Congregation for Divine Worship and the Sacraments in 1994 and, in 2002, from the Roman Rota, a Vatican court that deals mainly with marriage cases.

An experienced jurist, Ghisoni has served as both a lawyer and a judge on the Diocese of Rome’s tribunal, the

Roman Rota and the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Sacraments.

She also authored several scientific publications relating to canon law.

U.S. Cardinal Kevin Farrell is prefect of the Dicastery for Laity, the Family and Life, which began operating September 2016. It was formed by uniting the former pontifical councils for laity and for family.

According to its statutes, the dicastery is responsible “for the promotion of the life and apostolate of the lay faithful, for the pastoral care of the family and its mission according to God’s plan and for the protection and support of human life.”

NOVEMBER 10, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CLASSIFIEDS EMPLOYMENT Youth ministry coordinator - Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church is seeking a full-time youth ministry coordinator (YMC) to provide vision and coordination of the parish’s efforts to minister to young people grades 6 - 12. This includes inspiring and helping form young disciples through hospitality, prayer, formation and service. The YMC will provide vibrant spiritual and social support for the current YDisciple program with future plans to add consistent youth activities and administration of youth opportunities external to the parish. Utilizes and cooperates with a staff resource committee and a parent resource committee for support. This person must demonstrate a passion for youth ministry; basic knowledge of youth development; ability to communicate and work with people of all ages; ability to find effective individuals to volunteer to assist the program in various ways, as well as manage and supervise their work. Other skills needed include: marketing, organization, time management and a genuine interest in responding to the needs and concerns of youth. The ability to work well with the pastor and be flexible with the pastor’s vision and potential need to continually evaluate and make changes in the program if necessary. Requirements: be a practicing Catholic who is faithful to and accepting of the magisterium (teaching authority of the church); bachelor’s degree from a Catholic university/college in theology, youth ministry or similar degree required; a master’s degree in the same or similar is preferred but not required; past experience in youth ministry is also preferred but not required. Send cover letter and resume to: info@shoj. org. For full job description, go to the website at: shoj.org/ about-us/employment-opportunities.

Teacher assistant - Special Beginnings, Lenexa, is seeking full- or part-time after school teacher assistants at all locations. We are looking for a teacher assistant candidate who has an excellent work ethic, heart for children and a willingness to learn more about early childhood education.

Experience and/or education is a plus, but we will train the right candidate. Teacher assistants will work with the lead teacher to care for and educate the children. Primary responsibilities include assisting the lead teacher with: care and supervision of children, lesson plan implementation, parent communication, and cleanliness and organization of classroom. Starting hourly pay ranges based on experience and education. Pay increases are based on job performance. Opportunities for advancement are available, as the company prefers to promote from within. Apply by sending an email to: chris@specialbeginningsonline.com or in person at 10216 Pflumm Rd., Lenexa, KS 66215.

Drivers - Special Beginnings Early Learning Center is seeking part-time drivers for its school-age program located in Lenexa. Candidates must be able to drive a 13-passenger minibus, similar to a 15-passenger van. CDL not required, but must have an excellent driving record. Candidates would pick up children from area schools and then work directly with them when arriving back at the center. Experience preferred. Must have strong work ethic and the ability to work with children. Insurance provided. Background check will be conducted. Great opportunity for retired persons or those seeking a second job. Job responsibilities include: ensuring safety and well-being of children who are being transported at all times, including loading and unloading. Driving short, round-trip routes to elementary schools in Lenexa/Olathe area. Summer only: Driving short, round- trip routes to two Lenexa city pools. Maintaining mileage log. Keeping interior of vehicle clean. Apply by sending an email to: chris@ specialbeginningsonline.com or in person at 10216 Pflumm Rd., Lenexa, KS 66215.

Do you enjoy driving? - The Kansas City Transportation Group is looking for chauffeurs to drive our guests to events, airport, dinner, etc. Business is growing and we are in need of workers with flexible hours, those who are retired, etc. Great pay and benefits. Send resume to: jkalbert@kctg.com or in person at Carey, 1300 Lydia Ave., Kansas City, MO 64106.

Accounts payable/payroll accountant - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas has an immediate opening in the chancery accounting office for a full-time accounts payable/ payroll accountant. The position is responsible for processing approved invoices utilizing the DocuWare software and accounting system. The position is also responsible for payroll for the chancery staff. One to three years of accounts payable and payroll experience required, accounting degree preferred. Candidate must have strong computer skills with proficiency in MS Office Suite; must demonstrate strong organizational skills, including attention to detail and accuracy.

A complete job description and application are available on the archdiocese’s website at: www.archkck.org/jobs. Interested individuals should mail cover letter, resume and application by Nov. 22, to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, Accounts Payable/Payroll, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, or send via email to: jobs@archkck.org.

Assistant coaches - Bishop Miege High School is in need of assistant coaches for the 2017-18 school year in the sports of baseball and track. Any persons interested in any of these positions should contact athletic director Mike Hubka at (913) 222-5802, or send an email to: mhubka@bishopmiege for further information.

Caregivers - Daughters & Company is looking for several compassionate caregivers to provide assistance to ambulatory seniors in their home, assisted living or in a skilled nursing facility. We provide light housekeeping/light meal preparation, organizational assistance, care management and occasional transportation services for our clients. We need caregivers with reliable transportation and a cellphone for communication. A CNA background is helpful, though not mandatory. We typically employ on a part-time basis, but will strive to match hours desired. Contact Pat or Murray at (913) 341-2500 to become part of an excellent caregiving team.

High school president - Bishop Ward High School in Kansas City, Kan., is seeking a president for the 2018-19 school year. Applicants must be practicing Catholics and understand the mission of Catholic education. The president is the chief administrator of the school and is responsible for: school operations; student recruitment; donor engagement; facilities maintenance; strategic planning; and school advancement. Bishop Ward is looking for a “people person” who enjoys actively engaging with staff/students and stakeholders. This person should be a person who is open, approachable, a good communicator and team builder, and willing to become part of the Ward community. Fluency in Spanish would be a plus. The president must be able to demonstrate prudent financial management, as well as successful fundraising. The successful candidate will find ways to leverage the school’s diversity, history, tradition and other positive attributes to make the school a model for urban Catholic education. For a complete job description, go online to: www.archkck.org/schools. Complete the online application at: www.archkckcs.org and also send a resume and credentials to: Superintendent Dr. Kathleen A. O’Hara, Catholic School Office, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, or email to: kohara@archkckcs.org. Application deadline is Nov. 30.

Drivers - Ready for the summers off? Join our school transportation division and live like a kid again! Our drivers have the opportunity to serve our community and still get those precious summer breaks. Assisted Transportation seeks caring and reliable drivers to transport K - 12 students in Johnson and Wyandotte counties in our minivans.

CDL not required. $12 per hour. Retirees encouraged to apply. Learn more or apply online at: assistedtransportation. com or call (913) 262-5190 for more information. EOE. Custodian - Sacred Heart Church in Shawnee is seeking an individual to fill a full-time maintenance/custodian position.

General duties include general maintenance, repair, and the care and cleaning of the campus buildings. This position is eligible for the archdiocesan benefit plan. For further information, send an inquiry email and resume to: julie.krause@ shoj.org.

Health and wellness advocate for clergy – The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking an experienced nurse, case manager or social worker to fill the part-time (approximately 10-20 hours per week) position of health and wellness advocate for clergy. Duties include: visiting retired priests on a regular basis; managing priests’ conditions and care; serving as an advocate during appointments and hospitalizations; and assisting priests with health insurance and Medicare. The ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic in good standing and have a minimum of five years’ experience in adult health care, case management or social work; one year of health care management preferred. College degree in related field required, registered nurse preferred. A complete job description, application and benefits information are available on the archdiocese’s website at: www.archkck.org/ jobs. Interested individuals should mail cover letter, resume, application and pastor’s letter of support to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, Health and Wellness Advocate Search, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, or send via email to: jobs@archkck.org.

Executive director - The Archdiocese of Omaha has an opening for an executive director of FOCCUS Inc. USA. FOCCUS offers marriage inventory tools for use in marriage preparation and enrichment. This is a key position that offers a challenging opportunity to contribute your talents and expertise in business management, marketing, life cycle management, e-commerce and technology to further enhance FOCCUS’ competitive position in the marketplace. The executive director will develop the vision and strategies for the FOCCUS product. The desired candidate will demonstrate proven leadership of large e-commerce projects, including: directing business planning; content strategy and development; promotional campaigns and other online marketing; website design; customer service; web analytics; and web technologies. Qualifications include a bachelor’s degree (master’s degree preferred) from an accredited college or university in business administration, IT, e-commerce or related program; strong background in B2C and B2B e-commerce, including business planning, content strategy development, website design, web analytics and promotional campaigns; 5 - 10 years’ experience in utilizing e-commerce industries; active, practicing Roman Catholic in full communion with the Catholic Church, with demonstrated commitment to the mission of the church and full assent to all magisterial teaching. Apply online at: www.archomaha.org/careers.

SERVICES Water damage restoration - Framing, insulation, painting, Sheetrock, mold treatment and lead-safe certified. Insurance claims welcome. Serving Wyandotte and Johnson counties for 25 years. Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144.

Tree Trimming Tree Trimming/Landscaping Insured/References Free Estimates/Local Parishioner Tony Collins (913) 620-6063 Fall tutoring - Sessions are customized to fit student’s needs. Single sessions or packages available. Tutor has 15 years experience in K - 12 subjects, French Spanish, piano and voice. Call/text Kathleen at (913) 244-3655 or send an email to: Klmamuric@yahoo.com.

Memorials for the Holy Souls We will place a candle, rosary and holy card at the grave of your loved one - $25 Personalized grave-care services available for all occasions PERPETUAL LIGHT (785) 816-0054 www.perpetual-light.net

Cleaning lady - Reasonable rates; references provided.

Call (913) 940-2959.

Bankruptcy consultation - If debts are overwhelming you, seek hope and help from compassionate, experienced Catholic attorney, Teresa Kidd. For a free consultation, call (913) 422-0610; send an email to: tkidd@kc.rr.com; or visit the website at: www.teresakiddlawyer.com. Please do not wait until life seems hopeless before getting good quality legal advice that may solve your financial stress.

Clutter getting you down? - Organize, fix, assemble, install!

“Kevin of all trades” your professional organizer and “Honey-do” specialist. Call or email me today for a free consultation at (913) 271-5055 or kev@koatindustries.com. Insured.

References.

Custom countertops - Laminates installed within 5 days.

Cambria, granite, and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., (913) 962-5058.

Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee.

Rodman Lawn Care Lawn mowing, aeration, verticutting, mulching, Hedge trimming, leaf removal, gutter cleaning Fully insured and free estimates John Rodman (913) 548-3002 Quilted memories - Your Kansas City Longarm shop Nolting Longarm machines, quilting supplies and machine quilting services. We specialize in memorial quilts - custom designed memory quilts from your T-shirt collections, photos, baby clothes, college memorabilia, neckties, etc. For information or to schedule a free consultation, call (913) 649-2704. Visit the website at: www.quiltedmemoriesllc.com.

Speedy Guzman Moving and delivery Licensed and insured Anytime (816) 935-0176 Mike Hammer local moving - A full-service mover.

Packing, pianos, rental truck load/unload, storage container load/unload, and in-home moving. No job too small. Serving JoCo since 1987. St. Joseph, Shawnee, parishioner. Call Mike at (913) 927-4347 or send an email to: mike@mikehammermoving.com.

HOME IMPROVEMENT 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.

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!! www.elsolylatierra.com Call Lupe at (816) 935-0176 Rusty Dandy Painting, Inc. – We have been coloring your world for 40 years. Your home will be treated as if it were our own. Old cabinets will be made to look like new. Dingy walls and ceilings will be made beautiful. Woodwork will glow.

Lead-certified and insured. Call (913) 341-9125.

Life Simplified - Professional organizing for home and business. We organize tools to toys, closets to attics.

Pre- and post-moving support for upsizing or downsizing. We advise on what to keep, donate, recycle or toss and offer personalized strategies on keeping organized.

Supportive and non-judgmental. Call (913)-725-8151 or email: info@lifesimplified.biz www.lifesimplified.biz STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Free estimates. Call (913) 491-5837 or (913) 579-1835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.

Local handyman - Painting int. and ext., staining, wood rot, power wash, decks, doors and windows, masonry, hardwood floors, gutter cleaning, water heaters, toilets, faucets, garbage disposals, ceiling fans, mowing and more!! Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118.

NELSON CREATION’S L.L.C. Home makeovers, kitchen, bath. All interior and exterior remodeling and repairs.

Family owned, experienced, licensed and insured. Member St. Joseph, Shawnee. Kirk Nelson.

(913) 927-5240; nelsport@everestkc.net Concrete construction - Tear out and replace stamped, stained or colored patios and drives. Retaining walls, footings, poured-in-place safe rooms, excavation and hauling.

Asphalt drives and lots. Fully insured; references. Call Dan at (913) 207-4371 or send an email to: dandeeconst@aol.com.

Swalms organizing - downsizing - cleanout service - Reduce clutter – Any space organized. Shelving built on-site. Items hauled for recycling and donations. 20 years exp.; insured. Call Tillar at (913) 375-9115. WWW. SWALMSORGANIZING.COM. HARCO Exteriors LLC Your Kansas City fencing specialists Family owned and operated (913) 815-4817 www.harcoexteriorsllc.com

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Masonry work - Quality new or repair work. Brick and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; second-generation bricklayer.

St. Paul Parish, Olathe. Call (913) 829-4336.

Thank you for another great year - Through your support, my family has been blessed and my business has grown. We do windows, trim, siding, doors, decks, interior and exterior painting, wood rot, bathroom renovations, tile and Sheetrock. If you need work done around your home, we can do it. Josh (913) 709-7230.

DRC Construction We’ll get the job done right the first time.

Windows - Doors - Decks - Siding Repair or replace, we will work with you to solve your problems. Choose us for any window, door, siding or deck project and be glad you did.

Everything is guaranteed 100% (913) 461-4052 www.windowservicesoverlandpark.com drcconswindows@gmail.com

FOR SALE Residential lifts - New and recycled. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. St. Michael’s parishioners. KC Lift & Elevator at (913) 327-5557. (Formerly Silver Cross - KC) Holiday shopping - 50 unique high-quality vendors are bringing fashionable clothes, jewelry, home decor, handcrafted gifts, children’s items and gourmet food. Support these small businesses and get holiday shopping done. 4795 Frisbie Rd., Shawnee. www.lindsayauctions.com For sale - Two ground spaces, side by side. Resurrection Cemetery, Lenexa. $1000 each. Call (660) 869-8284.

FOR RENT For rent - House recently remodeled. Entry level BR, large loft BR, kitchen with dishwasher, basement garage with opener.

Large yard, quiet secure neighborhood. No smoking, no pets.

References required. Call (913) 238-2470. Serious interest only. Shawnee Sacred Heart member, owner.

WANTED TO BUY 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.

Wanted to Buy Antique/vintage jewelry, paintings, pottery, prints, sterling, etc.

Renee Maderak (913) 475-7393 St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee Wanted to buy - Cucina LLC is an entity that buys commercial real estate. Lou Serrone, a member of Good Shepherd, and Tom Disidore, a member of St. Agnes, are members of Cucina LLC. Tom and Lou are licensed brokers in both Kansas and Missouri. If you are a seller of commercial real estate, call Lou at (913) 219-9924.

REAL ESTATE Whole Estates Need to sell a home and everything in it?

We buy it all at once in as-is condition.

Call (816) 444-1950 or send an email to: www.wholeestates.com.

I NEED HOUSES! - We are members of Holy Trinity Parish and we pay cash for any real estate without any realtor commissions or fees. If you would like an easy, no-hassle sale at a fair price, please call me. We have 13 years of experience. Mark Edmondson (913) 980-4905.

CAREGIVING Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation for seniors in their home, assisted living or 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, Pat or Gary.

“Lynn at Heart” - 24 years’ experience in all types of private care. Excellent references. 24/7, shift or respite care. In-home, assisted living, nursing home, companionship, light housekeeping, meal prep, transportation, ADLs, care management, hospice. Greater KC area. Ask for Stephanie. (816) 299-6465.

Situation wanted - Retired nurse will do private care. Experience with hospice, Swedish massage and cosmetology. $20 per hour. Superior personalized care. Call (913) 938-4765.

Medication support - Need help filling weekly pill boxes?

Need daily medication reminders? We can provide these services in your home with daily or weekly visits. Call to learn about our exciting new medication solutions that allow you to continue living safely at home. Call Home Connect Health at (913) 627- 9222.

Looking for assisted living at home? - Before you move, call us and explore our in-home care options. We specialize in helping families live safely at home while saving thousands of dollars per year. Call today for more information or to request a FREE home care planning guide. Benefits of Home - Senior Care, www.benefitsofhome.com or call (913) 4221591.

NOVEMBER 10, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CALENDAR GIFT GALLERY Curé of Ars School 9403 Mission Rd., Leawood Nov. 10 from 6 - 8 p.m. (preferential shopping evening. Tickets: $20) Nov. 11 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. (Tickets: $5)

or RSVP to Maxine Mitchell Staggs at (816) 304-3286. Mail checks by Nov. 7, payable to Kansas City Alumni Council, to: Penny Lonergan, 736 Seneca St., Leavenworth, KS 66048.

MEMORIAL LITURGY Curé of Ars Church 9405 Mission Rd., Leawood Nov. 18 at 8 a.m.

This is a premier shopping event that brings together more than 40 artisans and vendors selling unique and upscale items. This fundraising event is hosted by Curé of Ars Mothers of Young Children in partnership with Country Club Bank. Proceeds benefit local

There will be a memorial liturgy for deceased loved ones followed by a grief support meeting in the Father Burak Room. The topic will be: “Giving Thanks While Grieving.” For more information, call (913) 649-2026.

children’s charities and scholarship funds.

FALL OPEN HOUSE St. James Academy 24505 Prairie Star Pkwy., Lenexa Nov. 11 from 9 - 11:30 a.m.

An open house will provide an overview of the school and include campus tours led by students. Coaches and club sponsors will be available to answer questions. The whole family is welcome. If you would like to schedule a personal open house tour, call the office at (913) 254-4228 or send an email to: kmaginn@sjakeepingfaith.org.

PANCAKE MEAL St. Mary Parish 9208 Main St., St. Benedict Nov. 12 from 7:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

There will be pancakes, eggs and sausage, juice and coffee. The suggested donation is a freewill offering. Everyone is welcome.

FALL DINNER St. Ann Parish (center) 301 Williams St., Effingham Nov. 12 from 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

There will be a ham and beans and chicken and noodles fall meal. The suggested donation is a freewill offering. Takeout is available.

Call (913) 833-2268.

ROSARY RALLY IN HONOR OF OUR LADY OF FATIMA Our Lady of Sorrows Parish 2552 Gillham Rd., Kansas City, Missouri Nov. 12 from 3 - 4:15 p.m.

CHILI SUPPER/TURKEY BINGO Holy Family Parish (Mejak Hall) 513 Ohio Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Nov. 11 at 5 p.m.

A $15 donation includes one bingo card (attend Mass at 4 p.m. and receive an extra bingo card free), chili supper, dessert and beverages. There will also be three blackout games. For tickets, call Sandy Cannon at (913) 396-1564 or Cathy Schneider at (913) 371-1561. Ages 21 and over only.

POLKA DANCE Knights of Columbus Hall 11221 Johnson Dr., Shawnee Nov. 11 at 7:30 p.m.

The Brian McCarty Band will be playing polka music and timeless dance music. The cost to attend is $10 per person. Beer setups and snacks will be provided or BYOB. Proceeds go to the priest and seminarians fund.

Call Dan Nicks at (913) 406-8717 for table reservations for six or more.

BINGO Sacred Heart Parish (hall) 2646 S. 34th St., Kansas City, Kansas Nov. 11 at 7 p.m.

Bingo will be hosted by the Sacred Heart Knights of Columbus. The entry fee to play 12 games is $12. Concessions will be sold. For more information, call Bob at (913) 850-3348.

POTLUCK HOLIDAY LUNCHEON Most Pure Heart of Mary (Formation Room) 3601 S.W. 17th St., Topeka Nov. 12 from 1 - 3 p.m.

The Christian widow and widowers organization will host a potluck dinner. There is no cost to attend. For more information, call (785) 233-7350.

FALL LUNCHEON Grand Street 4740 Grand Ave., Kansas City, Missouri Nov. 12 at 11 a.m. for social hour 2 p.m. for lunch

The KC Alumni Council of the University of St. Mary invites all alumni, family and friends to attend its fall luncheon honoring Sister Anne Callahan. The cost is $30 per person. Register and pay online at: stmary.edu/KCcouncil

follow. A $10 donation includes one bingo card, a Polish sausage and kraut sandwich and a drink. For more information, call Pat Waliczek at (913) 371-4728.

We will pray the joyful, sorrowful and glorious mysteries of the rosary. Benediction will follow, as well as the opportunity for attendees to enroll in the brown scapular. For more information, visit the website at: www.rosary rallieskc.org.

HEALING MASS Curé of Ars Church (Father Burak Room) 9405 Mission Rd., Leawood Nov. 16 at 7:30 p.m.

A Mass with prayers for healing, sponsored by archdiocesan charismatic prayer groups, will be held. Father Dennis Wait will preside. For more information, call (913) 649-2026.

‘FIDDLER ON THE ROOF’ St. James Academy 24505 Prairie Star Pkwy., Lenexa Nov. 16 - 18 at 7 p.m.

The cost to attend the musical is $12 for adults; $6 for students under the age of 18 and senior citizens age 65 and up. Order tickets online at: sjakeepingfaith.org/musical.

TURKEY BINGO All Saints Parish (hall) 815 Vermont Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Nov. 18 at 5 p.m.

Food will be served from 5 - 6 p.m. Bingo will

There will be a memorial Mass for deceased members followed by a business meeting.

There will be a social after the meeting. If you know of a member or their family member in distress, sick or in need of prayers, contact Theresa Smith-Lawton at (785) 640-1403. If you are interested in or would like more information about the Daughters of Isabella, call Marilyn Unrein at (785) 230-8448 or Cindy Keen at (785) 228-9863.

Come enjoy chili, a nacho bar and desserts.

The suggested donation is a freewill offering.

Bingo cards are $5 each. Prizes are a whole frozen turkey. The event is sponsored by the Holy Angels Knights of Columbus.

RESPITE CARE PROGRAM Holy Cross School 8101 W. 95th St., Overland Park Nov. 18 from 4 - 8 p.m.

Respite care provides the gift of time away from caregiving for families who have a child with a disability. The program is designed for children between the ages of 6 and 18.

For exceptions to the age range, call Tom Racunas at (913) 647-3054 or send an email to: trancunas@archkck.org. Volunteers are needed to be a respite buddy to a child with a disability. To register a child for the program or to volunteer, go to the website at: www. archkck.org/special needs and complete the online form.

‘SUNDAY DINNER AT OUR HOUSE’ Church of the Ascension Parish (hall) 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park Nov. 19 from 6 - 8 p.m.

The Knights of Columbus are hosting this barbecue dinner. There will be pork ribs, pulled pork, smoked sausage, smoked chicken thighs, sides and drinks. The cost is: $10 for adults ages 12 and over; $5 for kids ages 5 - 11; and free for kids under the age of 4.

Adult beverages will be available for a freewill donation.

‘TAKE-A-LOOK THURSDAY’ Holy Spirit School 11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park Nov. 30 from 9 - 11 a.m.

Come join us for information, tours and refreshments. For more information or to let us know you are coming, call Anita Pauls at (913) 492-2582 or send an email to: apauls@ hscatholic.org.

This annual concert is held at a different place of worship every year. This year the program will also feature the cathedral choir.

This workshop introduces a way to pray that is meditative, active, visual, serious and playful.

Participants will learn a prayer practice that is for the word-weary, the antsy or distracted pray-er. No artistic ability necessary. The fee is $65 ($20 deposit). For more information or to register, call (913) 360-6173 or go online to: www.sophiaspiritualitycenter.org.

DAUGHTERS OF ISABELLA, LITTLE FLOWER CIRCLE 503 Christ the King Parish (Yadrich Hall) 5973 S.W. 25th St., Topeka Nov. 19 at 12:30 p.m.

CHILI, TURKEY, BINGO Holy Angels Parish (Father Quinlan Hall) 15440 Leavenworth Rd., Basehor Nov. 18 at 5:30 p.m.

HARMONY INTERFAITH CONCERT Cathedral of St. Peter 416 N. 14th St., Kansas City, Kansas Nov. 12 at 7 p.m.

‘PRAYING ON PAPER: A THANKSGIVING SEASON RETREAT’ Sophia Spirituality Center 751 S. 8th St., Atchison Nov. 15 from 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

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FALL FEST St. Joseph-St. Lawrence Parish (St. Lawrence Hall) 211 W. Riley, Easton Nov. 18 from 4 - 7:30 p.m.

Join us for home-cooked soup and chili. There will be ham and turkey prizes for bingo as well as great socializing. The suggested donation is a freewill offering.

THE ‘FATHER KNOWS BEST’ MEN’S RETREAT Sacred Heart Parish 408 S. Cedar, Ottawa Nov. 18 from 8:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

There will be several speakers giving talks about raising children in this current environment. There will also be a catered lunch. The suggested donation is $25. Register in advance by calling Lester Wuertz at (785) 8356298 or sending an email to: leswuertz@live. com; or by calling Adam Gasche at (620) 3411843 or sending an email to: sevenbaradam@ gmail.com.

HAWK HUSTLE 5K AND FUN RUN Johnson County Community College (cross-county course) 12345 College Blvd., Overland Park Nov. 18 at 9 a.m.

Holy Spirit Parish Parents Association is sponsoring this fun run that is open to everyone. The race will be chip timed for runners, with prizes awarded for age groups. For more information and to sign up, visit the website at: www.holyspirit.schoolauction.net/ hawkhustle.

CREATING FINANCIAL SECURITY FOR A LOVED ONE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS The Arc of Douglas County (Rm. 238) 2518 Ridge Ct., Lawrence Nov. 28 from 6:30-7:30 p.m.

The office of special-needs ministry for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and The Arc of Douglas County are cosponsoring this workshop to educate parents/guardians with a special-needs child/adult on how to prepare for two generations of financial security. The workshop will show attendees how to build a team and cover the key aspects of a special-needs plan. We will discuss a 529-ABLE account vs. a special-needs trust and why both are important. For more information or to RSVP, call (785) 218-1423.

BISHOP MIEGE MOTHERS CLUB ADVENT CELEBRATION Bishop Miege High School 5041 Reinhardt Dr., Roeland Park Nov. 30 at 6:30 p.m.

Women are invited to enjoy a peaceful evening and celebrate the season of Advent. It begins in the chapel with a candlelight prayer service and then moves to the commons for a reception. For more information and to make reservations, go online to: bishopmiege.com or call Annie Wallace at (816) 510-4818.

‘UNWRAPPING GIFTS OF ADVENT’ Sisters of Charity motherhouse (Ross Chapel) 4200 S. 4th St., Leavenworth Dec. 2 from 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Take a pause in the midst of the upcoming holiday rush for a retreat day to reflect on four gifts that Advent can hold: peace, courage, playfulness and hope. The day of prayer will conclude with Mass. The cost of $35 includes lunch. Register by Nov. 27. To register, send an email to: retreats@scls.org or call (913) 758-6552.

NOVEMBER 10, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY

‘Hello in there, hello’

THIRTY-SECOND WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Nov. 12 THIRTY-SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Wis 6: 12-16 Ps 63: 2-8 1 Thes 4: 13-18 Mt 25: 1-13 Nov. 13 Frances Xavier Cabrini, virgin Wis 1: 1-7 Ps 139: 1-10 Lk 17: 1-6 Nov. 14 Tuesday Wis 2:23 – 3:9 Ps 34: 2-3, 16-19 Lk 17: 7-10 Nov. 15 Albert the Great, bishop, doctor of the church Wis 6: 1-11 Ps 82: 3-4, 6-7 Lk 17: 11-19 Nov. 16 Margaret of Scotland; Gertrude, virgin Wis 7:22b – 8:1 Ps 119: 89-91, 130, 135, 175 Lk 17: 20-25 Nov. 17 Elizabeth of Hungary, religious Wis 13: 1-9 Ps 19: 2-5 Lk 17: 26-37 Nov. 18 The dedication of the Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul, apostles; Rose Philippine Duchesne, virgin Wis 18: 14-16; 19: 6-9 Ps 105: 2-3, 36-37, 42-43 Lk 18: 1-8

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W

hy do I keep listening to this song?

Every time I hear its melancholy lyrics and haunting melody, it tears me up.

The song is “Hello In There.” Although written and originally sung by John Prine, I prefer Bette Midler’s version on her “Jackpot — The Best Bette” album.

It’s about growing old, when the kids have moved away. The chorus goes like this: “You know that old trees just grow stronger/And old rivers grow wilder ev’ry day/ But old people just grow lonesome/Waiting for someone to say, ‘Hello in there, hello.’”

The last verse says: “So if you’re walking down the street sometime/And you should spot some hollow ancient eyes/Don’t you pass ‘em by and stare/ As if you didn’t care, say, “Hello in there, hello.”

(Pardon me while I reach for a box of Kleenex.)

The song reminds us, with the holiday season approaching, not to

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MARK MY WORDS

FATHER MARK GOLDASICH Father Mark is the pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie. He has been editor of The Leaven since 1989.

forget the aging and the homebound. Sometimes, even when the elderly are included in family celebrations, they’re often relegated to a neglected corner while life hustles and bustles around them.

The following German folktale puts things into perspective.

A couple lived with their only son in a modest house. Though not rich, they lived a comfortable and happy life.

Eventually, the man’s father moved in with them. The old grandfather’s eyes had grown dim, his ears nearly deaf, and his hands shook.

When he ate, he was unable to hold his spoon without spilling food on the tablecloth and floor.

Often, bits of food would run out of his mouth, soiling his clothing. After discussing this irritating behavior, the couple decided to set a table for the grandfather in a corner of the kitchen. As he ate, he looked sadly at his family. Whenever he spilled his food, he sobbed.

One day, the old man’s hands could no longer hold the glass bowl and it fell to the floor, break-

ing into a dozen pieces.

The woman scolded him and went to the market to buy a wooden bowl for the grandfather. As the days passed, the old man said very little as he sat in his corner eating out of his wooden bowl.

Late in the fall, the father came home to find his son sitting in the middle of the floor, carving a block of wood.

“What are you making?” asked the father.

“It’s a present for you and Mommy,” answered the child. “I’m carving two wooden bowls so that you’ll have something to eat from when you live with me in your old age.”

The couple looked at each other for a long time and began to weep.

That evening, they moved the grandfather back to the family table.

From that day on, he always ate with them, and they said nothing even when he spilled his food. (Adapted from William R. White’s “Stories for Telling.”)

This somber tale reminds us to put ourselves in the shoes of our elderly. Like it or not, one

day we’ll all be in their place. How would we want to be treated?

Sometimes, we neglect the elderly because it reminds us of our own fears of aging or we feel clumsy interacting with them. Author Paula Spencer Scott offers these practical tips: • Remember that it’s not about you. Set aside personal discomfort and see your visit as a present to the elderly person.

• Focus on the person inside. Though their body may have changed considerably, the person is still there. Speak slowly and distinctly and sit so that you can visit at eye level.

• Bring some props — like old photos, family videos on a tablet or even candy or cards.

• Be patient if the person repeats things.

These are memories that have touched their lives.

Let them touch yours.

Most importantly, smile often and give warm hugs. These are the best ways to say, “hello in there, hello” and remind our elderly of how deeply loved they are.

Preparation for salvation at heart of bridesmaid parable

S

everal years ago, I led a group on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land.

Part of our trip involved climbing up Mount Sinai. Because of the unbearably hot desert weather, our climb took place in the evening. That meant that we would descend from the mountain in total darkness.

To light our way, the guides provided us with flashlights. Unfortunately, the batteries were dead. That really complicated our descent from the mountain. However, some of us had cell phones which could light up, helping the group to see.

Two thousand years ago, torches would have corresponded to those flashlights. Oil to fuel the torches would have corresponded to the batteries that would have powered the flashlights.

THE GOSPEL TRUTH

FATHER MIKE STUBBS Father Stubbs is the pastor of Holy Cross Parish in Overland Park and has a degree in Scripture from Harvard University.

Our predicament on Mount Sinai makes a nice parallel to the parable that we hear in Sunday’s Gospel reading, Mt 25:1-13.

Ten bridesmaids are waiting for the bridegroom to arrive in the

POPE FRANCIS

Clericalism is a path taken by those who, unlike the good shepherd, concern themselves with money and power and not with people who are suffering and neglected, Pope Francis said.

Hypocrites, even within the church, focus either on being friends with powerful people or “think about what is inside their pockets,” the pope said Oct. 30 during his morning Mass at

middle of the night. They have torches to light their way. Five of the bridesmaids have wisely brought along oil as fuel for the torches. The other five have neglected to provide for this need.

When the bridegroom arrives, the wise bridesmaids go in with him to the wedding feast, while the foolish bridesmaids are left out in the cold.

This cautionary tale warns us to be prepared for the coming of Christ, who corresponds to the

bridegroom. Only then will we be allowed to join him in the wedding feast, which stands for heaven.

The parable concludes with the admonition: “Therefore, stay awake, for you know neither the day nor the hour.”

The wording of this warning might strike us as somewhat strange, since the bridesmaids in the parable, whose example we are to imitate, fall asleep while waiting for the bridegroom: “Since the bridegroom was long delayed, they all became drowsy and fell asleep.”

However, the word translated as “stay awake” can also be translated as “watch” or “be vigilant.” That would fit in more appropriately with the parable. Watchfulness is an essential part of being prepared.

The supply of oil that the wise bridesmaids have brought along might mean the good

Domus Sanctae Marthae.

“These are the hypocrites, they are capable of anything; they don’t care about the people,” he said. “When Jesus uses that beautiful noun that he uses so many times with them — ‘hypocrites’ — they are offended: ‘But not us, we follow the law.’”

In his homily, the pope reflected on the day’s Gospel reading from St. Luke in which Jesus rebukes the leaders of the synagogue who

works that believers in Christ need to perform. This interpretation would reflect the words of Christ: “Your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father” (Mt 5:16).

In the parable, the reluctance of the wise bridesmaids to share their oil with the foolish ones might suggest a lack of compassion.

However, they are only being practical.

Had the wise bridesmaids complied with the request to share their oil, nobody would have had enough oil to last until the arrival of the bridegroom: “No, for there may not be enough for us and you.”

In matters of salvation, we cannot compensate for others’ lack of preparation. That is why the Gospel insists so strongly upon its importance.

criticized him for having cured on the Sabbath a woman “crippled by a spirit.”

Unlike a good shepherd, who is always close to and moved by those who suffer, the clerics who criticized Jesus were perhaps more concerned with “when the religious service would end so they could go and count how much money was made in the offerings,” the pope said.

— CNS

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NOVEMBER 10, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

16

‘Missionary’ to deaf ministry office called ‘truly a blessing’

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Katherine Rathgeber wanted to do something really special in ministry — especially deaf ministry — but the question was what would it be.

“A couple of summers ago, I was praying at home and felt a desire in my heart to do something after college to give myself in total service to God,” said Rathgeber, who attended Franciscan-sponsored Quincy College in Illinois.

“I’m engaged to be married next summer, but I wanted to have that experience of just a year where I’m able to say ‘yes’ to anything,” she said.

An opportunity came along, but she didn’t feel at peace with it, so she kept praying.

“It took me a long time of trying to resist God’s will, but God is persistent — praise God,” she said.

Her spiritual director at school gave her a tip: Contact Father Scott Wallisch in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.

“I sent him an email and told him what was on my heart,” she said.

His welcoming invitation to visit in March this year came at a good time.

She was free during spring break.

Rathgeber visited the archdiocese on March 12 and met with archdiocesan consultant for deaf ministry Katie Locus and others. She also attended a Mass celebrated in American Sign Language in Olathe.

Before she could be accepted for ministry, she was asked to submit a proposal.

She did, and it was accepted. On Aug. 18, Rathgeber became a “visiting missionary” in the archdiocesan office of deaf ministry. She will work in the archdiocese until May 2018.

“Katherine is such a blessing,” said Locus. “With her wealth of experience in ministry and her youthful enthusiasm, she has already been such a huge help in revitalizing deaf ministry.”

“When Katherine came to the deaf Mass [during her visit], I didn’t have any idea of how she could be a good fit for the office,” Locus continued. “Well, I was blown away by how much experience she had in ministry and knowledge of theology. I had been praying for help. When I realized how much

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE BOLLIG

Katherine Rathgeber is a visiting missionary in the archdiocesan office of deaf ministry. She will work in the archdiocese until May 2018. she had to offer, I knew right then that God had answered my prayers.”

Rathgeber was born and raised in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Her family belonged to Sacred Heart Parish and she was an altar server. Her family was faithful and active in the parish.

“Praise God for my parents, who raised my brother and me in the faith, going to church every Sunday and sending us to catechism classes,” she said. “I grew up around the parish.”

It was during a high school retreat that her faith caught fire.

“I went on a confirmation retreat at

a mountain center,” she said. “Praying the Divine [Mercy] chaplet, I had an experience of the Holy Spirit, and that was what started a deepening for me. I decided to join the Quest retreat team.

“From that point, I kept going. The retreat team was hugely formative in my life. It was such a beautiful experience.”

She practically grew up with American Sign Language.

“I had a deaf friend while I was growing up,” said Rathgeber. “I met her at vacation Bible school while we were in the second grade, and I wanted to be

able to talk with her. So I started learning some signs that week from her, like ‘cookie’ and ‘juice.’ And my parents bought me a sign language book, and I just soaked it up and I wanted more.

“I had some classes in high school with my friend and I would watch the interpreter the whole time, and I tried to learn a new sign every day.”

Interestingly, the only formal sign language classes she took were at Quincy College.

She graduated from Quincy on May 14 with a double major — bachelor of arts degrees in sign language interpreting and in theology. Her senior thesis was about deaf ministry and the new evangelization.

Rathgeber is involved in a number of deaf ministry efforts as a visiting missionary.

“She is focusing on preparing two deaf teenagers for confirmation and is doing several interpreting jobs — Masses and Communion services at nursing homes for deaf residents, sacramental preparation classes, retreats, workshops, meetings and religious events,” said Locus. “Katherine is certainly staying busy.”

Her most ambitious project since arriving in Kansas is leading the effort to make a sign language translation of the YOUCAT, the Youth catechism of the Catholic Church.

“It’s a huge, national, three-year project,” said Rathgeber. “We’re working with a team of 20 people from all over the country — hearing and deaf, priests and lay — all involved in deaf ministry.

“People have translated the Bible and other spiritual things into [American] Sign Language, but there has never been a catechism,” she continued. “It has so many truths of the faith, but [the longer] catechism is large and kind of daunting. The YOUCAT has a simple question and answer format that is aimed at young people but really is applicable for everyone and lends itself very easily to sign language.”

Rathgeber’s ability to make an immediate contribution to the archdiocesan deaf ministry and her ability to connect with people has impressed Locus.

“Katherine is such a joy to have,” said Locus. “Her enthusiasm for serving God and the deaf community has captured everyone’s hearts. She is truly a blessing.”

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