09-18-09 Vol. 31 No. 7

www.theleaven.com | Newspaper of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas | Vol. 31, No. 7 september 18, 2009

the sky’s the limit

Alex Buckner, a member of Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood, works on the tree houses that will be displayed at the National Catholic Youth Conference this fall. The NCYC will take place in Kansas City, Mo., Nov. 19-21.

K

ansas City, Kan. — What’s cool21. The theme of the biennial conference is “Christ er than hanging out with God? Reigns,” and coordinators have created a Reign Hanging out with God — and Forest thematic park as part of the program. some of your BFFs (best friends Nearmyer said tree houses seemed like a perforever) — in an extreme tree fect fit for the Reign Forest theme. house.

They were designed by an architecturThat’s why three, towal consulting team and then constructed Story by ering, man-made “tree houses” have been throughout various summer sessions at built for the National Catholic Youth ConCamp Tekakwitha by campers and staff. ference this fall.

T-Extreme campers spent the greatest “We’re trying to create these serendipiamount of time working on them.

“The guiding principle with the tree houses is tous spiritual encounters by having the tree houses sustainability,” said Nearmyer. “They are created there for everyone,” said Dana Nearmyer, archdifrom modular construction, and we’re going to ocesan consultant for the office of evangelization and Catholic formation for youth. “They will be a use 100 percent of it again in a meaningful way.” place for people to hear a brook and have silence Nearmyer said the tree houses, currently at as a meditative spot, and each of them will be dedPrairie Star Ranch in Williamsburg, will be deconicated to a saint and have catechesis included.”

Turn to “adult” on page 16 NCYC will be held in Kansas City, Mo., Nov. 19-

All for one

St. James parishioners in Wetmore had reason to celebrate Sept. 5 as they installed a new pastor and broke ground on a new church.

Kara Hansen

3

Spanish pilgrimage

All Saints parishioner Steven Kuchero (center) walks the Way of St. James in Spain as a spiritual pilgrim.

All’s a-twitter

5

The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas now has a Twitter account that will keep you current on breaking news.

4

2 ARCHBISHOP

THE LEAVEN • september 18, 2009

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS

I

Pray that priests might become like the Good Shepherd

n early June, I drove to St. Louis for the installation of Archbishop Robert Carlson, the new archbishop of St. Louis.

The next day, I needed to be in Chicago for a meeting of the Marriage and Family Committee of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. My plan was to: 1) fly out of St. Louis early in the morning; 2) attend the Marriage and Family meeting at a location near the airport; 3) catch a late afternoon flight back to St. Louis; and 4) then drive back to Kansas City that night.

Everything was going perfectly according to plan until I arrived at the airport in the afternoon. On the departing flight schedule, I saw the word that every traveler fears: “delayed.”

The estimate was that the flight would leave just an hour later than originally scheduled.

I went to the assigned gate to wait.

After about 45 minutes, we were informed that not only our gate but our terminal had been changed. The new estimate for our departure time meant a two-hour delay. I trudged over to the new gate. After waiting there for another half-hour, we were informed that our gate had been changed again and the estimate of our departure had been pushed back yet another hour.

I was beginning to get anxious about the prospects of making it back to St. Louis, much less Kansas City, that night. After another 45-minute wait, a

message appeared on the gate flight board monitor: “Flight 1099 cancelled.”

I made my way as quickly as possible to the airline service center to investigate the possibilities of getting to St. Louis that night. As a result of bad weather in various parts of the country, there were many delayed and cancelled flights. Thus, the line at the service center was very, very long.

At some point, the man directly in front of me totally lost it. He began screaming and even cursing. From what I could make out from his tirade, he had been in the airport for about 16 hours and he was not optimistic that he was going to make it out of Chicago that night. Somehow, I surmised he was not a good candidate for a conversation.

I noticed the young man standing behind me. I thought he had been at the same series of gates where I had been waiting. I inquired if he was going to St. Louis. He told me that he had been in Germany for three months working on a project for his employer.

He had been granted a long weekend to spend with his family in St. Louis.

I could see the disappointment on his face as he realized his extended weekend was shrinking.

During the delays at the gates, I had

been reading a book, entitled “You Shall Be My Witnesses: Lessons Beyond Dachau,” written by Archbishop Kazimierz Majdanski. The archbishop, as a seminarian, had been a prisoner at Dachau. The book told the story of hundreds of Polish priests who were prisoners in the Nazi concentration camps, many of whom died there.

In the course of the book, Archbishop Majdanski recounted the story of St. Maximilian Mary Kolbe, the Polish Franciscan whose feast is celebrated on Aug. 14. Maximilian Kolbe had been a prisoner at Auschwitz. Some infraction by one of the prisoners had infuriated the Nazis. Ten men had been selected randomly for execution to demonstrate the fatal consequences for noncompliance with the harsh prison rules.

Maximilian Kolbe was not one of those selected for execution. However, when one of the condemned men began to weep — for his children, who would be orphaned, and for his wife, who would become a widow — Maximilian Kolbe offered to take this man’s place.

The survivors of this event said they were frightened that the Nazis would execute 11 instead of 10. This would not have been out of character with their total disregard for human life.

However, the Nazi commandant was so stunned by Father Kolbe’s offer that he accepted it and spared the married man’s life. Decades later, when Pope John Paul II canonized Maximilian Kolbe, the man whom he had saved was present with his family.

I began to think: What if I received

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Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita@theleaven.com

Advertising Representative Jennifer Siebes jennifer@theleaven.com

President Most Reverend Joseph F. Naumann

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe@theleaven.com

Reporter KARA HANSEN kara@theleaven.com

Editor Reverend Mark Goldasich, stl frmark@theleaven.com

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd@theleaven.com

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the very last seat on the plane to St. Louis? Would I be willing to give up my seat so that this man could spend more time with his wife and children?

Maximilian Kolbe gave up his life for a man and his family. Would I give up the chance to get home that night for this man and his family?

Fortunately, it did not come to that. We both made it on the last flight to St. Louis.

However, the whole incident served as a good meditation for me about the nature and meaning of the priesthood.

Every priest is called to make heroic sacrifices for his people — not just to get them to some temporary destination in this world, but to help lead them to their eternal destination in heaven.

Priests are called to strive to be shepherds after the heart of Jesus — the good shepherd who laid down his life for his flock. In a special way, priests are called to be at the service of married couples and parents, providing them with the spiritual wherewithal to love unconditionally their spouses and children.

Pope Benedict XVI has dedicated a year, beginning this past June 19 with the solemnity of the Sacred Heart, as a special year of prayer for priests.

The Holy Father has asked the whole church to pray for priests, that we might have the generosity to become more and more shepherds after the heart of Jesus Christ.

I ask every member of the Archdiocese to make some special prayer commitment this year to intercede for the sanctification of all priests and, in particular, your own parish priests.

THE LEAVEN • September 18, 2009

SECOND FRONT PAGE 3

All together now

Leaven photo by Joe Bollig

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann playfully tosses a shovelful of dirt as Father Balachandra Miriyala, pastor, prepares to follow suit. The acolytes are: (from left to right) Kenton Bloom, Keri Tanking, and Kyle Bloom.

Community spirit carries new Wetmore church

By JOE BOLLIG Leaven staff

WETMORE — At St. James Parish here, people have a tradition of working together. The blessing and groundbreaking for the new church on Sept. 5 was an excellent example of this community spirit.

No sooner had Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann playfully tossed his shovelful of dirt, than the site was swarmed by parish youngsters excitedly digging away with their own shovels.

Next, everyone retired to the parish hall for one of those legendary potlucks where the tables are crowded with the very best dishes of the parish women.

The perfect early fall evening was a double cause for celebration.

Not only did Archbishop Naumann bless the site of the new church, he also installed its new pastor, Father Balachandra Miriyala, originally from India.

“I was very happy and excited because I thought it would be a challenging job to build a new church,” said Father Miriyala, who arrived on July 14. “I’ve never built a church so far in my priestly life, so I thought it would be a nice thing to build a church in the United States.”

St. James is a small parish that has seen a lot of change since the first church was built in 1879 as a mission of the Benedictines of Atchison. Over time, various buildings, including an old frame school, rectory and original church have been built and torn down.

The current church was actually built as a two-room school in 1960.

Leaven photo by Joe Bollig

Among those who joined the archbishop in breaking ground for the new St. James Church in Wetmore are: (from left to right) Kean Haverkamp, Caleb Niehaus, Kevin Shumaker, Reese Tanking and Marshall Tanking.

The school closed in 1969 and was then remodeled for worship. Although it served the people well, it’s too small (seating only about 130 people).

Consequently, many weddings were moved to Sabetha. Also, the building is aging and upkeep on it is not costeffective.

“One reason [for a new church] is that we’re running out of room, and the old church has a lot of issues,” said Randy Tanking, chairman of the parish building committee. “We looked at remodeling and saw that it would cost as much to renovate the old church as to build a new one.”

There was a lot of support for building a new church among the 71 families of the parish.

“I was very happy and excited because I thought it would be a challenging job to build a new church.

I’ve never built a church so far in my priestly life, so I thought it would be a nice thing to build a church in the United States.”

Father Balachandra Miriyala, pastor of St. James Parish, Wetmore

According to a survey, 98 percent of parishioners favored a new church — and they backed it with pledges.

When fundraising began, the capital campaign reached 50 percent of its goal immediately.

The cost of the new church will be $465,000, and the parish plans to pay it off in just three years, said Bill Burdick, chairman of the parish finance committee.

“It looks like it is possible,” said Burdick. “We paid the parish hall off in five years.”

The one-story church will be built between the parish hall and current church, which will be converted for use in religious education programs.

The former rectory garage, now on the site, will be torn down.

The 4,800-square-foot church will have a full basement and a small steeple. Construction will be wood frame with brick facing. There will be a cry room, one small bathroom upstairs, and two larger bathrooms downstairs.

The basement will be largely unfinished, but will have a small room for the pastor in case he is compelled to stay overnight by the weather or for other reasons. The church windows will be clear glass, but can be replaced later with stained glass.

The new church will seat about 300. The parish is using 34 pews formerly at St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood.

Construction, which will begin in two weeks, is expected to be completed in five months. Tim Rolands of ATNJ of Platte City, Mo., drew up the plans. The project’s general contractor is F & L Construction of Centralia.

4 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • september 18, 2009

Local catechist and DRE honored at state conference

By KARA HANSEN Leaven staff

OLATHE — If years of service are any measure of how dedicated Jim Augustyn is to teaching religious education, this Prince of Peace parishioner is off the chart.

Now entering his 23rd year of teaching, Augustyn was presented with the Catechist of the Year award at the Kansas Association of Religious Educators (KARE) conference, held July 24-26 in Salina.

Mark Schuetz , director of religious education at Prince of Peace, nominated Augustyn for the honor.

“I call Jim the gentle giant,” said Schuetz, who heads up the Children’s Church/Elementary programs. “He is 6 feet 4 inches tall and towers over his first-grade students, but is one of the nicest people that you will ever meet.

He is such an excellent teacher, and he works so well with the children.”

Augustyn, a father of five, taught sixth-grade religious education for one year and has taught first grade ever since. What he enjoys most about his work as a catechist is stepping away from his busy work as an operations manager to help younger children understand God’s love for them. “[This work] makes me feel like I am really doing something good — good for the children and good for me as a Catholic Christian,” said Augustyn. “It

Jim Augustyn, a parishioner at Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe, was presented with the Catechist of the Year award at the Kansas Association of Religious Educators (KARE) conference, held July 24-26 in Salina. literally forces you to practice what you preach and apply your faith to every part of your life.”

Schuetz said Augustyn keeps his classes active and learning through different methods, often taking them to the church itself to learn up close and personal about their faith traditions.

“He has his students act out Bible stories during class so that they feel that they are part of the story,” said Schuetz.

“During Advent, he has his classes reenact the Nativity story, and he always makes sure that every girl has an opportunity to be Mary.”

Schuetz said Augustyn stays up-todate on all the latest information for catechists, attending all in-services and many of the workshops provided by the archdiocese.

“I am blessed to work with many talented and dedicated catechists, but Jim stands out with his dedication and the compassion that he shows to his students,” said Schuetz.

As for Augustyn, he is honored by the

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award, but not taking it too seriously.

“Honestly, I didn’t want to make a big deal about it because there are so many other wonderful people taking time to help in the faith formation of our children,” he said.

Denise Godinez, presented with the outstanding Director of Religious Education award by KARE, expressed a similar sentiment.

“I was very surprised at first,” said Godinez. “There are so many parishes in our archdiocese with staff that are terrific at teaching the faith.”

Though Godinez has been involved with religious education as a catechist and junior high coordinator for the past 20 years, she has been the director of religious education at Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish in Overland Park for only the past four.

“Denise really goes above and beyond in anything she has to do,” said Rosanna Alvarez, a parishioner and catechist at Queen of the Holy Rosary who works with Godinez. “She is very dedicated to what she does, and all of us catechists respect Denise for the job she does.”

Godinez said she could not do her work without the faithful support of her pastor, the parishioners, parents and students involved with religious education at Queen of the Holy Rosary.

“I’m very grateful to our families and children,” she said. “If they didn’t have the desire and commitment to provide

Denise Godinez was presented with the outstanding Director of Religious Education award by KARE. She has been the director of religious education at Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish in Overland Park for the past four years. a faith foundation, we would not have a program.”

Godinez said the children receiving religious education at Queen of the Holy Rosary come from 12 different schools. That diversity of background and experience could create challenges for many religious education programs.

But not at Queen, said Godinez.

“The kids really team up well together,” she said. “We want them to have a Catholic education, but we also want them to come away with a strong Catholic moral character as well, by participating together.”

Alvarez said Godinez does more than her part to make sure that goal is met.

“Denise is very involved with the students and really gets to know the parents. She does so much to help us catechists do a better job teaching,” said Alvarez. “Many times Denise is here early and stays late working, and we really appreciate all she does for us and the kids.”

THE LEAVEN • SEPTEMBER 18, 2009

Pilgrim searches for ‘inner discovery’

Milton and Barbara Warriner, members of St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept. 19 with a celebration for family and friends.

Anniversaries There will also be a special Mass in honor of the anniversary at St. Joseph Church on Sept. 20. The couple was married on Sept. 19, 1959, at St. James Church in Kansas City, Mo. Their children and their spouses are: Todd and Joyce Warriner, Louis and Traci Kronawitter, and Tobin and Teresa Warriner.

They also have seven grandchildren.

All Saints parishioner hikes the Way of St. James in Spain

By JOE BOLLIG Leaven staff

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — When most Americans want to get away from it all, they go on vacation. But not Steven Kuchero.

Kuchero, a member of All Saints Parish in Kansas City, Kan., didn’t head for the beach, the mountains, or even Disneyland. He followed the well-worn path cut by millions of pilgrims before him for 1,000 years.

He hiked the Way of St. James (of Compostela) — that’s “Camino de Santiago de Compostela” — in northern Spain.

Kuchero ended up on the pilgrim trail because of the recommendation of a priest friend.

“I just wanted some time away,” he said. “I lost my mother [in February], and I wanted to look at my own life.”

Kuchero was in decent shape. He had been a lay Jesuit missionary to Central America in the late 1990s, and had been a triathlete and long-distance bicyclist.

So not much preparation was involved.

“I did a little bit of study, but I have to admit, I winged it,” he said. “The way the pilgrimage works, you don’t have to do a lot of planning.”

Since the Way of St. James is such an ancient pilgrimage, a series of hostels or “albergues” has been established for travelers over the years. These simple, Spartan accommodations offer a place to sleep, clean up, and cook food, but little else. Kuchero brought a backpack, a sleeping bag, a change of clothes and toiletries.

“You don’t need much, honestly,” he said.

There is no single pilgrimage route.

Rather, there are several routes that snake their way across Europe to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, where the remains of St. James, brother of St. John and fellow apostle, are reputed to be entombed.

Kuchero walked the route alone, although he met several other pilgrims — even Americans — along the way.

The pilgrimage has been undergoing a renaissance over the past decade or so.

Kuchero began his journey at the port city of Cudillero on July 15 and arrived at Santiago de Compostela on July 27.

Part of the pilgrimage experience was meeting folks along the way. Here, Steven Kuchero (center) poses for a picture with David from Germany (right) and Robby from Florida.

“The main thing was I just wanted to go as a pilgrim, to search for inner discovery,” he said. “I prayed a rosary every day.”

On any given day he covered anywhere from 10 to 20 miles, depending on how he felt. Usually by the end of the day, he was really beat.

“What I found amazing was that I’d go to bed that night and then get up in the morning with all this pain and soreness gone,” he said. “I’d start walking and get into the swing of it, and it would be several miles before I felt pain like I did before.”

This well-traveled route follows some highways and roads, but also includes paths over ancient stone bridges past centuries-old churches. There are signs that mark the way, usually with the symbol of a scallop shell (because pilgrims of old used to carry them to scoop drinking water from the streams they passed).

Even though Kuchero hiked without a companion, he was never really alone, because there were so many other peo-

LOCAL NEWS 5

ple. Often he’d run into the same ones time and again, and a kind of pilgrim camaraderie developed. He met a German who had walked all the way from Munich and an Austrian who walked from Vienna.

But not all walking the Way of St. James were pilgrims.

“Many were just doing it because they had some time off and it was an adventure — not a religious thing in any way,” said Kuchero. “I’d say that was half the people. I couldn’t tell you how many were Catholic. It was just not part of the conversation.”

Kuchero ended his pilgrimage by walking beyond Santiago to Finisterra — meaning, in Latin, “end of the earth.”

As he sat there on a rock looking west out over the void, he sensed something else nearby.

“And there was a dog sitting there,” said Kuchero. “He was doing the exact same thing, looking out over the ocean.

I thought he must have been thinking the same thing I was thinking.”

Alice (Ziegler) and Don Heinzman, members of St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kan., will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary at noon Mass at St. Joseph Church in Shawnee on Sept. 27. Friends are invited to join the family in the celebration. The couple was married by Father Burton at St. Francis Seraph Church in Kansas City, Mo., on Oct. 11, 1949. Their children and their spouses are: Donna and Don Marrs, Dennis and Carla Heinzman, David and Jo Heinzman, Diane and Joseph Majerle, Debbie and Bryan Johnson, Denise and Steve Wilson, and Douglas Heinzman (deceased). They also have 11 grandchildren.

Gladys (Spielbusch) and Carl Klusman, members of St. Paul Parish, Olathe, will celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary on Sept. 27 with an open house hosted by their children from 1 to 4 p.m. in the gym at St. Paul Church. They have five children, 22 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren.

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6 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • september 18, 2009

Archdiocese goes Twitter

By BOB HART

Special to The Leaven

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann celebrates Mass on Sept. 5 in the new chapel area of the Holy Family Mausoleum at Resurrection Cemetery, Lenexa, with Father Jeremiah Spencer (left). Msgr.

Gary Applegate (kneeling, right) was master of ceremonies. The choir from Good Shepherd Parish, Shawnee, stands behind the altar, under the “Family of God” stained-glass window.

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Even the “technochallenged” among us have probably heard of the social networking service called Twitter. But popular media may have presented a distorted view of how it’s used.

Think it’s all about Hollywood actors like Ashton Kutcher broadening their fan bases? Think again.

Twitter, a free service enabling more than 5 million current users to send and read messages (known as “tweets”) of up to 140 characters, is used by individuals, multimillion-dollar corporations, social clubs and more. In fact, the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas created its own Twitter account in July.

“It’s basically another communications tool,” said Carroll Macke, archdiocesan communications and planning director. “It’s another vehicle for people to get information about what’s going on the archdiocese.”

Macke said he got the idea for a Twitter account from his son-in-law, who works at St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Overland Park. Aquinas has multiple Twitter accounts — keeping faculty, staff, students and parents upto-date on the school’s multiple activities and ministries. Macke saw an opportunity for the archdiocese to broaden its communication outreach as well.

“New technology is just amazing,” Macke said. “There are so many uses for this. We can invite people to seminars and workshops. Also, many offices and ministries within the archdiocese have

Who’s Tweeting?

Twitter has experienced explosive growth in 2009. According to “An In-Depth Look Inside the Twitter World,” from Sysomos, 72.5 percent of all Twitter users joined the service in the first five months of this year.

More than one-half of all Twitter users (53 percent) are women, and the majority are young. Among users who disclose their age, 66 percent are under 25; another 15 percent are ages 25 to 29.

— from www.clickweekly.com

their own Web pages, and this offers us a chance to drive people to those pages.”

Recent headlines on the archdiocese’s Twitter page (www.twitter.com/ archkck) include: “Ten new seminarians have been accepted by the archdiocese bringing to 26 the number of men studying to become priests” and “Archbishop Joseph Naumann and Bishop Robert Finn have issued a joint pastoral statement on health care reform.” As of Sept. 13, there were 61 registered followers and 36 official tweets on the site.

Twitter is not the only networking site on which you can find information about the archdiocese. Macke said Archbishop Naumann has a Facebook page, managed by a seminarian.

To learn what’s going on in the archdiocese by getting the latest tweets, Macke recommends visiting the Web site at: www.archkck.org; click on the “Follow us on Twitter” link. Visitors will be directed to the archdiocese’s official Twitter page, where they can create their own account, free of charge, and register as a follower of www.twitter. com/archkck.

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THE LEAVEN • September 18, 2009

LOCAL NEWS 7

Cowboys and legends turn out for Prairie Star Ranch

By Bob Hart

Special to The Leaven

WILLIAMSBURG — Break out that cowboy attire and get ready for some boot-scootin’ boogie.

On Oct. 10, supporters will gather at Prairie Star Ranch in Williamsburg for a fun-filled evening of food and entertainment that will also serve as a fundraiser. Prairie Star is the 291-acre Catholic youth camp owned and operated by the archdiocese. It is located about 50 miles south of the Kansas City area, on I-35, just past Ottawa. Money raised at the benefit “Legends Show” will go toward the construction of a chapel on the grounds.

“Prairie Star is just an awesome, awesome place,” said benefit organizer Mary Jo Doherty. “It’s one of the most beautiful and spiritual places I’ve ever walked around.”

Doherty’s involvement with Prairie Star came about through other volunteer efforts.

“My husband Phil and I have been the lay couple at Church of the Ascension [in Overland Park] for the Archbishop’s Call to Share, and in our presentations to the parish, we’ve tried to

focus on one charity per year,” she said.

“Last year, it was Prairie Star Ranch, and we just fell in love with it.”

Doherty’s pastor, Msgr. Tom Tank, was instrumental in the creation and development of the ranch and has long dreamed of building a chapel on the site, she said.

Participants in the October event can expect a great lineup of events: • 4 p.m. — Meet at Church of the Ascension and take a bus ride to Williamsburg.

• 5 p.m. — Celebrate Mass with Msgr. Tank on the site where the new chapel will be built.

• 6 p.m. — Enjoy cocktails and dinner provided by PB&J Restaurants.

• 7 p.m. — Experience the live entertainment of Las Vegas entertainers Jerry Presley and his “Legends” revue.

Their celebrity impersonators include the likes of Lionel Richie, Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, Sonny & Cher, Ray Charles and Patsy Cline.

The event is for adults only; tickets are $100 per person. There is a $10 charge to ride the party bus, which will return everyone to Church of the Ascension around 10:30 p.m. Participants may opt to drive themselves if they

would prefer.

“We know that in this economy, it’s tough to spare a hundred dollars,” Doherty said. “But we’re hoping those in a position to do so will take part and join us for a great evening, while helping to get the chapel built.”

Doherty said she has set a goal of 100 couples (200 people) attending, which would “easily allow us to turn over $10,000 to the cause. But we won’t limit it to that number. The more, the merrier!”

Although the fundraiser promises plenty of western-themed fun and classic entertainment, its larger purpose should not be forgotten, said Dana Nearmyer, archdiocesan consultant for evangelization and Catholic formation for youth and executive director of Prairie Star Ranch.

“This fundraiser is a great opportunity to support the ongoing ministry of the ranch and deepen the spiritual lives of the students who visit us by providing a beautiful chapel in which they can worship,” Nearmyer said.

For more information or to make reservations for the Legends Show at Prairie Star Ranch on Oct. 10, call Mary Jo Doherty at (913) 685-8313 or (913)

About Prairie Star Ranch Prairie Star Ranch’s mission is to bring youth and families closer to Christ and his church.

The youth office of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas runs the ranch. Shawn Madden serves as the program and operations director. He has a bachelor’s degree in religious studies and youth ministry from Benedictine College, Atchison.

Dana Nearmyer is the executive director of Prairie Star Ranch. He has a master’s in education and specializes in experiential learning. Nearmyer focuses on making each youth’s faith life more active through various active learning experiences.

Source: www.archkck.org

302-9909, or send an e-mail to her at: mjku@att.net.

Checks may also be mailed to Prairie Star Fundraiser, c/o Mary Jo Doherty, 5422 W. 141st Terr., Leawood KS 66224.

Appointments Father John A. Riley, chancellor, reports the following assignments, made by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann: Father William Bruning, pastor of Mother Teresa of Calcutta Church in Topeka, is additionally appointed administrator of St. Dominic Church (Holton) and St. Francis Xavier (Mayetta), and chaplain of Our Lady of Snows (Potawatomi Reservation). Assignment is effective Sept. 10.

Grotto blessed

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann blessed the recently completed Mary’s Grotto on the campus of Benedictine College in Atchison on Sept. 8. The project is part of the school’s $50 million comprehensive campaign and was fully funded with an anonymous $500,000 donation. Nestled on the hillside on the western edge of the academic quad, the grotto can be seen from most of the campus. The shrine will serve as a place for quiet meditation, inspiration and outdoor prayer.

Father Chris Rossman, returning from leave for continuing education and formation, is appointed parochial vicar (associate pastor) of Mother Teresa of Calcutta Church in Topeka. He will also assist Father Bruning with the pastoral care of St. Dominic Church (Holton) and St. Francis Xavier (Mayetta), and chaplain of Our Lady of Snows (Potawatomi Reservation). Assignment is effective Sept. 10.

Father John E. Melnick, a priest of the Diocese of Scranton, Pa., is appointed to the theology faculty of Donnelly Col-

lege and its campus ministry. Father Melnick will assist with Masses and other pastoral needs of St. Mary-St. Anthony and Holy Family parishes in Kansas City, Kan. Appointment is effective Sept. 10.

Father Francis Bakyour, formerly administrator of St. Dominic Church (Holton) and St. Francis Xavier (Mayetta), and chaplain of Our Lady of Snows (Potawatomi Reservation), due the requirements of his visa, will return temporarily to his home diocese of Damongo, Ghana.

He is applying for permission to return to the United States for pastoral service in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.

Father Kirity Podila, parochial vicar of St. Vincent de Paul (Onaga), St. Patrick (Corning), St. Bede (Kelly) and St. Columbkille (Blaine), due the requirements of his visa, will return temporarily to his home diocese of Kadapa, India. He is applying for permission to return to the United States for pastoral service in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.

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Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas Capital Campaign 2009 Annual Report

For I know well the plans I have in mind for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare, not for woe! Plans to give you a future full of hope. (Jer 29:11) Dear Friends in Christ, It is with great joy and gratitude that I offer you a comprehensive accounting of how the ministries of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas have received and dispensed the gifts of the people from the Archdiocesan Capital Campaign, A Future Full of Hope. Your generosity to A Future Full of Hope is continuing to make a great difference in the Catholic community of Northeast Kansas.

With gratitude for your love for Jesus and His Church, I remain, Sincerely yours in Jesus, the Lord of Life,

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann Archdiocese of Kansas City

THE Total

DONATIONS Pledge

as

of

06.30.09 $42,812,821.00

Total

Collected

as

of

06.30.09 $38,722,595.99

Total Distribution as of 06.30.09 $37,898,360.63 Total Rebate Distributed as of 06.30.09 $5,478,551.00

Distribution OF FUNDS RECEIVED l

l

All figures are as of 06/30/09

Christ the Priest Seminarian and Priest Education

$1,399,898.01

Endowed funds to provide the ongoing professional development for seminarians and clergy.

Priest Retirement Fund

$2,624,808.77

Provides funds for the expected increase in the number of retired clergy.

Subtotal

$4,024,706.78

Christ the Teacher Catholic Education Foundation (CEF)

$6,299,541.00

Provides tuition assistance to Catholic schools in economically disadvantaged and rural areas of the archdiocese. Funds were also placed to establish an endowment fund.

Existing Catholic High Schools*

$4,149,770.56

Provides funds to five archdiocesan high schools and Maur Hill-Mount Academy to help address their most critical needs.

New Catholic High School

$3,776,321.72

Builds St. James Academy as well as an allotment to be set aside for future feasibility studies in other growth areas of the archdiocese.

Subtotal

$14,225,633.28

* Designated gifts included

ARCHDIOCESE OF KANSAS CITY IN KANSAS 12615 Parallel Parkway • Kansas City, Kansas 66109 • 913.721.1570 • stewdev@archkck.org

We regret any errors or omissions at the time of this printing.

Distribution OF FUNDS RECEIVED

continued

Christ the Servant

l

Catholic Charities*

$1,868,767.72

Began an endowment to continue to provide on-going support to programs dealing with those among us who are less fortunate.

Cultural Outreach Ministries

$699,949.02

Funds to promote ministries to minority populations of northeastern Kansas.

Care for the Aged

$349,974.43

Funds to assist in capital improvements to our facilities that care for our elderly population with special concern for the poor.

$2,918,691.17

Subtotal * Designated gifts included

Christ the Shepherd

l

Lay Ministry Development

$874,936.26

Endowed funds to prepare lay leaders and ministers, particularly in our rural areas.

Prairie Star Ranch

$1,399,898.01

Help pay for the initial purchase of Prairie Star Ranch and provide aid for those wishing to attend.

Savior Pastoral Center*

$1,444,905.65

Renovate the physical plant: including updating overnight facilities, restrooms, meeting areas and expansion of the parking lot.

Archdiocesan Special Needs Fund

$1,749,872.48

Monies spent in support of Archdiocesan ministries and institutions and also Mundelein Seminary and International Catholic stewardship.

Subtotal

$5,469,612.40

* Designated gifts included

Strengthening Our Parishes l Parish Sharing

$5,478,551.00

To assist parishes in addressing their own needs, 16% of each gift is returned to the parish, 50% is returned when a parish exceeds it goal.

l Archbishop’s Call to Share

$3,000,000.00

Parishes were asked to run the annual appeal in either 2002 or 2003, but not in both years.

l Campaign Costs

$2,781,166.00

Costs associated with implementing the campaign.

$11,259,717.00

Subtotal

l $4,024,706.78 ..........................................................Christ the Priest l $14,225,633.28

CA

T HE

SA

TH

S

N

NO R

l $2,918,691.17

............................................ Christ the Servant

l $5,469,612.40

.......................................... Christ the Shepherd

l $5,478,551.00

...............................................Parishes Sharing

l $3,000,000.00

.................................. Archbishop’s Call to Share

l $2,781,166.00

.............................................. Campaign Costs

L IC F O U N TIO DA

O TH

.......................................... Christ the Teacher

EAS T KA

N

The endowment funds are administered by the Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas.

Distributions are made in accordance with endowment documents. The funds are managed by the professional investment consultants of the Foundation.

12 CLASSIFIEDS

THE LEAVEN • September 18, 2009

Employment

Husband and wife cleaning team - Reasonable rates; references provided. Call (913) 940-2959.

Associate consultant - For the office of evangelization and Catholic formation of youth. The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking an experienced and skilled leader to assist in providing a creative approach to catechesis and youth ministry throughout northeast Kansas. The selected individual must be an active practicing Catholic who supports the magisterium of the church and is ready to assist parishes in supporting and developing vibrant and inspiring youth formation opportunities. Primary contacts will be pastors, directors of religious education and coordinators of youth ministry. This position will work closely with the lead consultant in the office and other members of the evangelization and Catholic formation team to complete work objectives. The successful candidate will work collaboratively with members of the archdiocesan curia, priests, parishioners, boards, staffs, and volunteers to develop and implement catechetical plans; inspire and motivate all constituents to work on established goals; conduct public speaking and educational opportunities for parishioners, employees and constituents of the church; and provide Christ-centered leadership to archdiocesan parishes. For a complete list of qualifications, visit the archdiocesan Web site at: www. archkck.org, click on the link to chancery offices, then on the human resources tab. The archdiocese offers a generous benefit package and competitive salary. For immediate consideration, forward your resume and cover letter to Kathleen Thomas, director of human resources, at: kthomas@archkck.org. The submission deadline is Sept. 25.

Need Help with QuickBooks? I have years of experience with QuickBooks and I will help set up your program or work with you on a continual basis.

I reconcile checking, credit cards and loans; write checks; and set up automatic bill payments. Excellent references. Call Ann Evans at (913) 406-9778.

Preschool teachers - The Goddard School, 21820 W. 115th Terr., Olathe, is seeking qualified lead teachers, assistant teachers and substitute teachers.

Current open positions include: toddler asst. teacher, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.; part-time asst. teacher, noon - 6 p.m.; part-time float, 3 p.m. - 6 p.m. Full-time benefits include: competitive pay; benefits package; opportunities for professional development and career growth; and a great working environment. Qualified candidates must meet or exceed Kansas regulations, have strong communication skills, and desire to learn and implement the Goddard School programs. Lead teachers should have an early childhood education degree, a CDA, or a degree in a related field with an emphasis in early childhood education. Prior experience in a child-care setting is preferred. For consideration, forward your resume to: goddardolathe2@ everestkc.net.

Granite, Cambria and Silestone countertops See our new showroom at 5820 Barton, in the heart of beautiful downtown Shawnee. Call The Top Shop, Inc., at (816) 898-8685 or (913) 962-5058.

St. Joseph Early Education Center, Shawnee - Is seeking a full-time lead teacher in our 3- and 4-year-olds classroom, and a lead teacher for our before- and after-school care program. Must be at least 18 years old and qualified to be a lead teacher in the state of KS. To apply, call Nancy at (913) 631-0004.

Help wanted - COBRAGuard is a nationally recognized leader in COBRA administration. We are expanding our business and are seeking qualified individuals to help with our tremendous growth. If you are looking for an opportunity with a growing firm, make sure you apply with us. We have openings in our call center, sales, IT, and accounting departments.

To apply, visit the Web site at: www.cobraguard.net (follow the jobs link), or send an e-mail to: HR@ COBRAGuard.net. EOE. Financial representative - Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding financial representatives in the Kansas City and Emporia areas. This position is ideal for a determined, high-energy, high-expectation, professional, self-disciplined, independent individual desiring to serve others, yet earn a better-than-average income.

We provide top-rated financial products to our members and their families and will provide excellent benefits and training. For more information or an interview, contact John A. Mahon, 307 Dakota, Holton KS 66436; or call (785) 364-5450.

Services Professional college essay service - High quality writing grabs attention and yields results. Threeperson review team will edit your scholarship and college application essays. We provide feedback and suggest improvements to craft a persuasive essay.

Fall review slots fill quickly. Contact Denise at (816) 520-1642, or send an e-mail to her at: collegeessay @me.com.

Housecleaning - JoCo and WyCo areas. Experienced. References available. Reasonable rates. I offer weekly, biweekly, monthly or a one-time, deep-cleaning service. For a quote, call Cindy at (913) 634-4141.

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

Family-owned by local parishioners.

Lic/Bond/Ins. References. (913) 620-6063 Clutter getting you down? Our professional aesthetic organizing and handyman services can help. We organize and clean up homes, businesses, cars, computers — you name it! We also provide minor fixes and installations, trash/charity haul off, trash removal from abandoned homes or housing units, and we promise to leave with a smile on your face. Visit our Web site at: www.koatindustries.com.

Licensed and insured; references available. Call Kevin at (913) 271-5055.

Machine quilting - by Jenell Noeth, Basehor. Also, quilts made to order. Call (913) 724-1837.

Bankruptcy - When debt becomes overwhelming, seek professional help. Experienced, compassionate Catholic attorney Teresa Kidd. For a confidential, no obligation consultation, call (913) 422-0610; or send an e-mail to: tkidd@kc.rr.com.

Foley’s Lawn Care Mowing & landscape maintenance Aeration & overseeding (913) 825-4353 www.foleyslawncare.com Johnson County Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation to the elderly and disabled in home, assisted living and nursing facilities. We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Andrea, Sara or Gary.

Do you or your parents need help at home?

- For as little as $60 per week, Benefits of HomeSenior Care can provide assistance with personal care, shopping and many other daily needs. For details, visit our Web site at: benefitsofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591.

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

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

Masonry work - Quality, new or repair work.

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

Brown’s Carpet - Installation and repair carpeting; vinyl and wood installation. Free estimates. 10 years experience. Serving the KC metro area. Call (913) 231-4961.

Woodbright - A very affordable alternative to refinishing, refacing or replacing stained cabinets and woodwork. The average kitchen only costs $500. 18 years experience. Call Woodbright at (913) 940-3020.

Tim the Handyman - Insured; free estimates.

Carpentry: new and repair deck, doors, windows, siding, screens. Plumbing: faucet, garbage disposals, toilets. Electrical: switches, outlets, ceiling fans, light fixtures. Light landscape: fill dirt, trimming, planting, garden tilling and mulching. Serving Johnson County.

Call Tim at (913) 859-0471.

Custom-kitchen countertops - Laminate tops manufactured and installed within 5 days. Competi-

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

EL SOL Y LA TIERRA *Commercial & residential * Lawn renovation * Mowing * Clean-up and hauling * Dirt grading/installation * Landscape design * Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!!

Call Lupe at (816) 252-3376 Roofing - Will honor insurance companies’ proposals. 20 years experience. Call (913) 341-7584 (office) or (913) 206-4524 (cell).

STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Call for free estimates.

Cell: (913) 579-1835; phone: (913) 491-5837; e-mail: smokeycabin@hot mail.com. Member of Holy Trinity Church, Lenexa.

Adept Home Improvements Where quality still counts!

Basement finishing, Kitchens and baths, Electrical and plumbing.

Licensed and insured.

(913) 599-7998

Swalms Organizing Service - Basements, garages, attics, and shop spaces organized! Items sorted, boxed & labeled; areas cleaned when finished! Clean out services also available. Great references and insured. For pictures of current projects, visit the Web site at: www.swalms.com. Call Tillar Swalm at (913) 375-9115.

Electrician - Free estimates; reasonable rates.

JoCo and southern KC metro area. Call Pat at (913) 963-9896.

Real Estate OP/Leawood home FSBO - Fabulous home located in Nativity Parish, on the lake at Hawthorne Place, 12211 Ash. Spacious, open floor plan with 3 BR, 3 fulland 2 half-baths and a finished walkout bsmt. Maintenance provided community. Near Town Center shops and restaurants. To view, call (913) 345-8118 after 9/21.

Stratford Place, Overland Park - A 50+ community. 12225 Monrovia. Well-maintained home. 2 BR, 2 BA, living room, dining room, corridor kitchen. Large, custom utility/craft room with cabinets. One-car garage, patio and sprinkler system. New furnace, A/C and laminate flooring in 2007. Exterior maintenance, lawn care and snow removal provided. Large clubhouse with indoor pool. Contact Marian at (913) 980-1944.

Kansas land - Have land to sell? Marisa Morgan Dallman, owner-broker, Kansas Land Brokers, LLC. Call (913) 915-9151 or visit the Web site at: www.

KansasLandBrokers.com.

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

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

Prairie Village ranch - 2 BR, 1 BA, den, basement, fenced yard, one-car garage, refrigerator, stove, dishwasher. $695 per month. Call (913) 579-3093.

Vacation Palm Desert, Calif. - Condo for rent for Nov. and Dec. 2009 and Jan. 2010. Furnished 3 BR, 3 BA, on executive golf course with a mountain view. Swimming pool is two doors away. Golf available. Close to main shopping area. Call Judy at (913) 381-3063.

Ski cabin in Winter Park, Colo. – 2 BR, 1 BA, on free ski shuttle route. $110/night. Call (913) 6423027. To view pictures, visit the Web site at: cabin. forcadeassociates.com.

Ski vacation - Winter Park, Colo. 2 BR, 1 BA, sleeps 6. Fully furnished, fireplace, rec. center with pool & hot tub. $125/night; $750/week. Call Joe Frederick at (913) 385-5589.

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

For sale Real estate note for sale - $50K first mortgage, to pay 7%; secured by $135K home. Call (913) 660-0595 for a recorded message.

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

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

Mount Olivet Cemetery, Kansas City, Mo. – True companion mausoleum for sale. Holy Redeemer wall; tier B. Beautiful location. Valued at $7000; asking $5500. Includes transfer fee. Call (816) 842-2883.

Child care Attention parents of 2- through 5-year-olds - St. Agnes Child Care has current full- and part-time openings available now! Give us a call or come visit to see what we have to offer for your child. We are located on the backside of the lower level of St. Agnes School, 5130 Mission Rd., Roeland Park. For information, contact Neona Russ at (913) 262-1689.

Miscellaneous Looking for someone to do our ironing - Prefer nonsmoking home in the Curé of Ars or St. Michael’s area. Interested in setting up a long-term relationship.

Call Gretchen at (913) 362-4503 or send an e-mail to: gretchenhembree@hotmail.com.

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

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 and vintage costume jewelry Member St. Joseph Parish Renee Maderak (913) 631-7179

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

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

THE LEAVEN • SEPTEMBER 18, 2009

Sept.

19

A memorial liturgy for deceased loved ones will be held at 8 a.m. on Sept. 19 at Curé of Ars Church, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood. The bereavement ministry will have its monthly meeting following Mass in the Father Burak Room. The topic will be “From I to We to Me.” For information, call (913) 649-2026.

Father Tom Hesse will be the celebrant for the archdiocesan monthly pro-life Mass at 8 a.m. on Sept. 19 at Sts. Cyril & Methodius Church, 44 N. Mill, Kansas City, Kan., followed by a rosary procession to an abortion clinic four blocks away. Eucharistic adoration is available for those not processing; Benediction concludes services at 10 a.m.

The Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women will hold its quarterly meeting from noon - 3 p.m. on Sept. 19 at St. Patrick Church, 1086 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kan. All women of the archdiocese are invited to attend. For information, contact Terry Beth Lewerenz at (913) 491-5149 or send an email to her at: tlewerenz@kc.rr.com.

The Our Lady of Guadalupe Society at Queen of the Holy Rosary Church, 7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park, will host a taco dinner from 1 - 6 p.m. on Sept. 19 in the Carl Zawacki Parish Hall. The cost is $6 for adults; $3 for children.

St. Joseph Church, Flush, will host a hog roast, silent and live auctions, a quilt raffle and more at 5 p.m. on Sept. 19. The cost for dinner is $6 for adults; $2.50 for children. Proceeds will benefit the parish’s accessibility project.

The Cathedral of St. Peter, 422 N. 14th St., Kansas City, Kan., will host its fall festival from 5 - 9 p.m. on Sept. 19. Join in this evening of family fun to raise funds for the cathedral.

20

Sacred Heart-St. Joseph Church, 3rd and Van Buren, Topeka, will host its annual autumn fest from noon 5 p.m. on Sept. 20. There will be German food and music, concessions, a beer garden, bingo, a cake walk, raffles, children’s games and more.

St. Joseph Church, 306 N. Broadway, Leavenworth, will host its annual bazaar from 11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. on Sept. 20. A roast beef dinner with all the trimmings will be served. The cost is $8 for adults; $6 for children ages 4-11; children 3 and under eat free.

St. Therese Church, Richmond, will host its annual parish dinner from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Sept. 20. The cost is $8 for adults; $4 for children 10 and under. There will also be a raffle and a country store.

For information or to register, call Shelley Kelly at (913) 522-3352 or Bob Miller at (816) 942-0017.

22

“Coping With Grief,” a six-session series for those grieving the loss of a loved one, will be offered on Tuesdays from 6:30 - 8 p.m., beginning Sept. 22, at Good Shepherd Church, in the Romero Chapel, 12800 W. 75th St., Shawnee. For registration or information, call Bernadine Asher at (913) 563-5304.

A cancer support group will meet at 7 p.m. on Sept. 22 in the conference room located on the main level of Ascension Church, 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park.

Bring a friend or loved one that is presently going through cancer and could use some support. Cancer survivors are welcome to share their faith and personal journey with those that need encouragement. For information, call Terri Miller at (913) 829-1545 or send an e-mail to her at: tasmrose@aol. com; or send an e-mail to Jean Hinman at: jhinman@kcascension.org.

23

The Singles of Nativity will host a happy hour at 6 p.m. on Sept. 23 at Houlihan’s, 11600 W. 95th St., Overland Park. Look for the yellow balloon and our greeters, who will be at the table until 7:30 p.m. Questions? Send an e-mail to: social@ son-ministry.org.

23-25

Divorced? Widowed?

Beginning Experience Weekend gently helps people move through their loss to a new beginning in their lives. The Beginning Experience Weekend for the Kansas City area will be Oct. 23 - 25 at Sanctuary of Hope, 2601 Ridge Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 469-8453 in the Kansas City metro area; (785) 843-9274 in Lawrence; (785) 3575000 in Topeka; or visit the Web site at: www.neksme.org.

23 - 10/1

A novena to St. Therese will be prayed at Sts. Cyril and Methodius Church, 44 N. Mill, Kansas City, Kan., nightly at 6:45 p.m. from Sept. 23 Oct. 1. For information, call (913) 206-7232.

24

Donnelly College will celebrate its 60th anniversary on Sept. 24 with a convocation day Mass at 10 a.m. on Sept. 24 at the Cathedral of St. Peter, 422 N. 14th St., Kansas City, Kan. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann will be the celebrant. All are invited to lunch on the Donnelly campus following Mass.

“Portion Control, Sensible Sizing,” a nutrition presentation, will be offered from 9:30 - 11 a.m. on Sept. 24 at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/kwc.

25

The Knights of Columbus, Marian Council No. 3768, at Christ the King Parish, 3024 N. 53rd St., Kansas City, Kan., will host a pancakes-and-more breakfast from 8:30 to 11 a.m. in Davern Hall. A freewill offering will be accepted.

Our Lady of Unity School, 2646 S. 34th St., Kansas City, Kan., will host its annual carnival from 4:30-7:30 p.m. on Sept. 25. For information, contact the school at (913) 262-7022.

St. Joseph Parish, Lillis, will host its fall festival on Sept. 20. A brisket dinner with all the trimmings will be served from 5 - 7:30 p.m. in the parish hall. Games and raffles will follow.

Enrich you life, enrich your love, and enrich your marriage by spending time with your spouse and learning the tools to a great marriage! The next Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekend will be held from Sept. 25-27. For information or to register, call (913) 469-8453 in the Kansas City metro area, (785) 843-9274 in Lawrence, (785) 357-5000 in Topeka, or visit the Web site at: www.neksme.org.

21

The Serra clubs of Kansas City will sponsor the 18th annual priest and seminarian appreciation day at Leawood South Country Club, Leawood, on Sept. 21.

25-27

26

The Singles of Nativity will host an evening of miniature golf at 6:30 p.m. on Sept. 26 at Smiley’s, 10195 Monticello Terr., Lenexa. For information, send an e-mail to: social@son-ministry.org.

The Knights Of Columbus at Sacred Heart Parish, 2646 S. 34th St., Kansas City, Kan., will host a Texas hold ’em fundraiser on Sept. 26 at 6 p.m. A $50 donation includes hot dogs, chili, snacks, and drinks.

For information, call (913) 963-9095 or (913) 826-6883.

The Johnson County Unos will gather for 4:30 p.m. Mass on Sept. 26 at St. Pius X Church, 5601 Woodson, Mission. Dinner will follow at Applebee’s, 6800 Johnson Dr., Mission.

The Church of the Nativity, 3800 W. 119th St., Leawood, will host its annual “Spirit of Nativity” fall fiesta on Sept.

26. The evening will begin with Mass at 4 p.m., followed by a Mexican buffet dinner, a live mariachi band, bingo, inflatables, and more! The cost for wristbands is $9 for adults; $5 for children ages 4 - 12; or $35 per family. Wristbands may be purchased in advance at the parish office or on the day of the event.

Holy Family Parish, 274 Orchard, Kansas City, Kan., will host its inaugural Slovenefest on Sept. 26. The festivities include Mass at 4 p.m., followed by a social from 5 - 10 p.m. on the school grounds at 513 Ohio, Kansas City, Kan. There will be authentic Slovenian food, live music, and games for all ages. Proceeds will benefit the roof repair fund. For information, call the church office at (913) 371-1561 or Richard Schutte at (913) 724-2388.

The Knights of Peter Claver Ladies Auxiliary, Court No. 61, will host an oldies party from 8 p.m. - midnight on Sept.

26 at the Blessed Sacrament Center, 2215 Parallel Ave., Kansas City, Kan. Dress in your favorite retro-style outfit and bring your favorite oldies songs (boom box provided) and food. Tickets cost $5. Setups and karaoke will be available for a small charge.

For information, contact Barbara Bailey at (913) 321-1958.

Donnelly College, Kansas City, Kan., will host its annual scholarship dinner on Sept. 26, honoring all the past and present archbishops of the archdiocese. Join Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, Benedictine Sisters, former instructors and staff, alumni, and friends in celebrating 60 years of Donnelly. All proceeds will benefit the newly created archbishops’ endowed scholarship fund. The event will be held at the Jack Reardon Civic Center, 500 Minnesota Ave., Kansas City, Kan. To register, visit the Web site at: www.donnelly.edu/dinner. For information, call Laura Bryon at (913) 6218752 or send an e-mail to her at: lbryon@ donnelly.edu.

27

St. John Church, Greeley, will host its annual fall bazaar on Sept. 27. Dinner will be served from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. The cost is $8 for adults; $5 for children.

St. Mary Parish, St. Benedict, will celebrate its 150th anniversary with Mass at 11 a.m. on Sept. 27. A catered meal will be served from 12:30 - 2 p.m.

27 & 4

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann will host “Project Andrew: A Vocation Evening for Young Men” for all young men between the ages of 15 - 22 on Sept. 27 from 4 - 7 p.m. at Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish, 1800 S.W. Stone, Topeka, and on Oct. 4 from 4 - 7 p.m. at St. Joseph Parish, 5901 Flint, Shawnee. Young men will have the opportunity to pray, listen, and discuss how Christ personally calls

CALENDAR 13

men to be priests. Dinner will be provided; a parallel program will be provided for parents who wish to attend in support of their sons. For information or to register, visit the archdiocesan vocations office Web site at: www.kckvocations.com; send an e-mail to: vocation@archkck.org; or contact your pastor to register as soon as possible.

Oct. 9-11

“Doors to the Sacraments,” a two-night Ignatian retreat for men, will be held from Oct. 9 – 11 at Savior Pastoral Center, 12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kan. Father Richard Hadel, SJ, will trace the sacraments as they developed in the early church and how they continue to nourish us today. The cost of $125 includes a $50, nonrefundable deposit, and a freewill offering. Financial assistance may be available. Space is limited, so make your reservation early. For information, call the office at (913) 721-1097 or visit the Web site at: www.saviorpastoralcenter.org.

Misc.

Pure Fashion, a seven-month model training program for teen girls, teaches girls to live the virtues of modesty and purity. The program includes presentations on real beauty, etiquette, how to sit, walk and talk with confidence and dignity and a chance to model at the April fashion show in trendy and cute fashions that send a message of self-respect. For enrollment information, visit the Web site at: www. purefashion.com; call Becky Dieterman at (816) 333-0623; or send an e-mail to her at: beckydieterman@aol.com.

Holy Family Parish, Eudora, will celebrate its 150th anniversary on Oct. 10 11. We’re searching for former parishioners, pictures and artifacts — basically, anyone or anything to be part of this celebration.

If you are a former parishioner or know someone who was, contact Janet Campbell at (785) 542-2412 or send an e-mail to: bseiwald@sbcglobal.net. For information, visit the Web site at: www.holyfamily eudora.com.

The Knights of Columbus, Our Lady of Peace Council No. 9856 at Curé of Ars Parish, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood, will host its second annual golf outing on Oct. 19 at St. Andrew’s Golf Course, 11099 W. 135th St., Overland Park. Registration begins at 12:30 p.m. followed by a 1:30 p.m. tee-off. The cost is $100 per person. The entry deadline is Oct. 2 and there are only 72 spots available, so register early by visiting the Web site at: www.kofccureofars. org. For information, call Bill Carlsen at (913) 207-7326 or send an e-mail to him at: bill.s.carlsen@sprint.com.

A cancer prayer group gathers every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at Curé of Ars Church, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood. For information, call Ginger at (816) 942-8850.

A weekly support group for women who have been released from incarceration, entitled “Living Free: Re-enter and Re-start,” will be held from 1 - 2 p.m. on Mondays at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 9068990 or visit the Web site at: www.mount osb.org/kwc.

14 COMMENTARY

THE LEAVEN • September 18, 2009

Mark my words

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

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

Quote Week

of the

“We’re trying to create these serendipitous spiritual encounters by having the tree houses [at NCYC] for everyone.

They will be a place for people to hear a brook and have silence as a meditative spot, and each of them will be dedicated to a saint and have catechesis included.”

Take these fearless words to heart

I

f you’re pressed for time this week, here’s the main point of my column: “Be strong, fear not. Here is your God.” Remember these eight words, believe these eight words, live these eight words.

Naturally, if I stopped writing right now, that would leave a lot of empty space here and would be an embarrassment to both my staff and me. So, I’ll press on . . . but honestly, those eight words above are all you need to know.

By the way, they should sound familiar.

They come from the prophet Isaiah (35:4a) and we just heard them as part of the first reading at Mass on Labor Day weekend.

Recently, I came across an interesting tidbit: According to the National Bureau of Standards, a dense fog covering seven city blocks to a depth of 100 feet is composed of something less than one glass of water. (Found in “Sower’s Seeds That Nurture Family Values: Sixth Planting” by Brian Cavanaugh, TOR). Who could imagine that something as insignificant as a glass of water could unleash something so pervasive?

Think about the last time you encountered a dense fog. It changes everything. It disorients you. It prompts fear. It makes everything feel threatening: Familiar shapes, like a row of hedges, may appear to be a mysterious

Dana Nearmeyer, archdiocesan consultant for the office of evangelization and catechesis (See story on page 1)

Scripture Readings TWENTy-fifth WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Sept. 20 Twenty-fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time Wis 2: 12, 17-20; Ps 54: 3-4, 5, 6-8; Jas 3:16 — 4:3; Mk 9: 30-37 Sept. 21 MATTHEW, APOSTLE, EVANGELIST Eph 4: 1-7, 11-13; Ps 19: 2-5; Mt 9: 9-13 Sept. 22 Tuesday Ezr 6: 7-8, 12b, 14-20; Ps 122: 1-5; Lk 8: 19-21 Sept. 23 Pio of Pietrelcina, priest Ezr 9: 5-9; (Ps) Tb 13: 2-4, 6-8; Lk 9: 1-6 Sept. 24 Thursday Hg 1: 1-8; Ps 149: 1-6, 9; Lk 9: 7-9 Sept. 25 Friday Hg 2: 1-9; Ps 43: 1-4; Lk 9: 18-22 Sept. 26 Cosmas and Damian, martyrs Zec 2: 5-9, 14-15a; (Ps) Jer 31: 10-13; Lk 9: 43b-45

beast ready to pounce. Fog takes away your sense of confidence and wellbeing and causes you to creep along, not knowing what to expect around the next corner. It seems impenetrable.

But then the sun comes out. Because there’s not much moisture to fog, it burns off quickly and things return to normal. We can see clearly again and move forward with confidence.

Does it seem to you that our world has been taken over by the fog of fear?

Hardly a week goes by, for example, when I don’t receive at least one e-mail that warns me of something dire.

Thank goodness that, with a little research, light is shed on the issue and almost all of these “threats” can be dismissed as inaccurate, embellished or just plain silly. If a person can just put the fog into perspective, it doesn’t seem nearly as intimidating.

And maybe that is one of the ways that we Christians are called to influence our world today. We can’t be fearmongers. We must instead be a people who remind the world of those powerful words of Isaiah: Be strong, fear not.

Here is your God. But some may ask: Where is God? As Catholics, we not only point people to the Scriptures, but also to the Eucha-

rist. Our God is so close to us that we receive him into our own bodies in holy Communion. Honestly, if our God is right there with us, how can we not be strong? With God literally living inside us, what could we possibly fear?

God is depending on us to bring this comforting and reassuring message to others, to shine his light on the fog that seems to have enveloped so many.

Some practical ways to make this happen are: • Be active in your faith. If you’re not at Mass to spend time with God’s word and receive the Eucharist, your spirit runs the risk of becoming weak and fearful.

• Say the Prayer of St. Francis each day. These words show how to live out Isaiah’s advice by being a hope-, peace-, joy- or encouragement-monger at home, school, work or play.

• Invite someone to attend church with you, especially those who are struggling in life.

• Pray for the needs of others, especially those who are worriers. Then, let them know in person, by e-mail, phone or in writing that you’ve got them in prayer. Walking through a fog with another person cuts the fear in half.

Finally, you might want to keep a glass handy. When feeling overwhelmed by the fog of fear, discouragement or weariness, fill that glass with water — then dump it out.

So many fogs are of our own making that the simple act of tossing it all can make room for Christ’s light to shine on your whole life.

the gospel truth

Disciples troubled by Jesus’ prediction of betrayal

A

dults know that when children are completely quiet, it means that something is wrong.

It is the same as when we are outdoors, and, all of a sudden, all the sounds of nature disappear — no mean “betray” as well. The disciples chirping birds, only absolute silence. may have wondered which meaning Something similar happens in Sunday’s Jesus intended. That could explain the Gospel reading, Mk 9:30-37. disciples’ lack of understanding. With Jesus and his disciples are walking the second meaning in mind, the prethrough Galilee on their way to Jerusadiction would carry with it a lem. Jesus says something, Twenty-fIFth Sunday suggestion of disloyalty. That and immediately the disin Ordinary Time could explain the disciples’ ciples clam up.

Mk 9: 30-37 reluctance to probe further.

It sounds clear enough: Could they possibly be the “The Son of Man is to be ones to betray him? With the term handed over to men and they will kill “handed over,” the second prediction him, and three days after his death the of the passion introduces an element Son of Man will rise.” not present in the first prediction, Jesus is making the second predicwhich we heard in last Sunday’s Gospel tion of his passion. Nonetheless, his reading. disciples appear befuddled: “But they We might note that Jesus states this did not understand the saying, and element in the passive voice: “The Son they were afraid to question him.” of Man is to be handed over.” It does Why could they not understand? not answer the question: Who will What looks clear in retrospect might hand him over? That is the question have appeared more mysterious at the that the disciples are afraid to pursue. moment. That is always the case, obviThis scene surrounding Jesus’ ously. second prediction of his passion looks But there is also an ambiguity in the forward to another scene later on in Greek text. The word which our Lechis life. During the Last Supper, Jesus tionary translates as “handed over” can

confronts his disciples about the arrest that will lead to his trial and death: “Amen, I say to you, one of you will betray me, one who is eating with me” (Mk 14:18). We should note that the word translated here as “betray” is the same word which the Lectionary translates as “handed over” in Sunday’s Gospel reading.

In the Last Supper scene, the element of disloyalty appears clear. The only question that remains is: Who will betray Jesus?

The name of Judas surfaces as the obvious answer. But then, Simon Peter, the prince of the apostles, puts in his own claim for betrayal. He denies Jesus three times. And the other disciples betray Jesus in their own way: by abandoning him during his passion and death. And all of us, through our sins, share in the responsibility for his death.

So, how do we answer the question implicit in Jesus’ prediction of his passion, “The Son of Man will be handed over, the Son of Man will be betrayed”?

If we share with the disciples some responsibility for his death, perhaps we also share with them a lack of understanding, a reluctance to probe further.

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

THE LEAVEN • september 18, 2009

local news 15

Fall 2009 Confirmations Archbishop Naumann Sept. 24

7 p.m. Sacred Heart, Paxico, and Holy Family, Alma, at Paxico

Oct. 5 7 p.m. St. Gregory, Marysville, and St. Malachy, Beattie, at Marysville Oct. 6 7 p.m. St. Dominic, Holton, and Our Lady of Snows, Potawatomie Reservation, at Holton Oct. 22

7 p.m. Sacred Heart, Baileyville

Oct. 28

7 p.m. St. Bernard, Wamego, and St. Joseph, Flush, at Flush

Nov. 3 7 p.m. Annunciation, Baldwin, and Assumption, Edgerton, at Baldwin Nov. 11

7 p.m. Sts. Peter and Paul, Seneca

Archbishop Keleher Sept. 20 2 p.m. Immaculate Conception, St. Marys, and Holy Cross, Emmett, at St. Marys Sept. 27

4 p.m. Holy Family, Eudora

Oct. 24

5 p.m. Sacred Heart, Tonganoxie

Abbot Barnabas Oct. 4

3 p.m. St. Stanislaus, Rossville

Oct. 11

8:30 a.m. St. Joseph, Olpe

Oct. 11

10:30 a.m. St. Mary, Hartford

Oct. 25

2 p.m. Immaculate Conception, Louisburg

16 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • september 18, 2009

Adult volunteers needed to help with youth conference Continued from page 1 structed and taken to the Sprint Center in Kansas City, Mo., for NCYC. After the conference, the three structures will find a permanent home at Prairie Star Ranch.

One tree house includes a bridge and the two largest ones top out at 29 feet off the ground.

Nearmyer also said one of the tree houses was handicapped accessible and zero-entry.

“We wanted this to be something everyone could experience,” he said.

Currently, more than 1,100 youth from the state of Kansas alone are registered to attend NCYC. Those interested More than in volunteering for 20,000 parNCYC can visit the ticipants are archdiocesan Web expected for site at: www.archkck. the event. org. Select “Youth” The large from the “Minisnumber of tries” tab on the attendees left-hand side of the creates a screen, then follow great need an “NCYC” link to for adult volan application for unteers, said volunteers. IndividuNearmyer. als can select what “We need day or days they about 700would be available 1,000 adult to help, as well as vo l u n te e r s what programs or to pull this activities they would off. But also be interested in. we need a Archdiocesan Virtus large numtraining is required, ber of adults and Nearmyer said to witness the youth office is to kids, so currently working on kids can witcreating additional ness back to training opportunithem,” he ties prior to NCYC. said.

“We need warm adults around to create an atmosphere where kids can feel comfortable opening their hearts to Christ.”

Sixteen-year-old Aaron Broxterman is one of the many teens registered and ready to attend NCYC. “All of my brothers, my sister and my mom have gone to NCYC before and just loved it,” said Broxterman, a member of St. Matthew Parish in Topeka. “I’m really looking forward to being there and experiencing the whole thing.”

Broxterman is also participating in NCYC as an animator, along with 63 other teens from around the country.

As such, he will help lead participants in the scheduled activities and music, which are designed to keep the program fun and interactive.

In preparation, Broxterman participated in a training session held at Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kan., in

Anthony Mersmann (above), a member of Holy Family Parish in Eudora, and Olivia Roudebush (right), a member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood, focus on their respective tasks.

July and is now rehearsing on his own in order to be prepared to lead the crowds in November.

“The animators learned music, dance, script text and staging for the upcoming NCYC 2009 [at the July training session],” said Carmil O’Connor Mulaney, a NCYC program team member from the Archdiocese of Cincinnati.

“They will lead the gathered assembly along with our emcee, Steve Angrisano, and featured session leaders. At the conclusion of the training, they left with sheet music, CD and video access to continue to learn and study their roles.”

Broxterman said he’s really enjoyed training to be an animator for NCYC and is looking forward to the day he can put all his efforts to good use.

“My old youth coordinator and my parents really encouraged me to do this,” said Broxterman, “and it’s been the best experience of my life so far.

“Getting to meet different teens around my age from all over the country and to get together and celebrate something without being embarrassed about it has been an awesome experience.”

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