02 10 17 Vol. 38 No. 25

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 38, NO. 25 | FEBRUARY 10, 2017

100 CANDLES

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD

On his 100th birthday, Willie Hall attended Mass at his parish, Our Lady & St. Rose in Kansas City, Kansas, where he is surrounded in prayer by his daughter-in-law Paulette, left, and his daughter Marie.

The key to long life? ‘Treat everybody right’

By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan — Throw out your diet books. Willie Hall eats grits and sausage for breakfast every morning.

And he just celebrated his 100th birthday.

Hall is no stranger to junk food either.

“I like junk food,” he said. “My favorite is salami, cheese and crackers.”

A parishioner of Our Lady & St. Rose in Kansas City, Kansas, Hall attributes his longevity not to diet, but to the precepts of his Catholic faith.

“All I can say is I treated everybody right,” he said. “So that must be the way to longevity.

“If you be good to yourself and be good to everybody else, I think God seems to help you get along.”

A convert, Hall gives his wife Gloria credit for introducing him

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to Catholicism.

The couple has been married for almost 80 years, and Gloria is still living, too — though it will be a few more years before she celebrates her 100th birthday.

Hall’s recipe for a happy marriage is as simple as his recipe for

a long life: “It’s just always doing what your wife says.”

‘Adventure and love’ Hall grew up in Zimmerman, Louisiana, one of six children.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD

As he enters his 100th birthday celebration at Blessed Sacrament Parish Center in Kansas City, Kansas, Willie Hall takes a selfie Our Lady & St. Rose parishioner Marilyn Baker.

“It was a sawmill town,” he said.

“And the town was so small everybody quit at the same time and went to lunch.”

Inquisitive by nature, as a young man Hall thought about stowing away on a ship headed for Europe.

But he hopped a freight train and went on a hobo adventure instead.

“Back then, people were poor,” he explained. “That was one way of transportation — hitch a freight train and go.”

The group was headed to California. But when Hall heard harrowing tales of hobos overcome by exhaust fumes suffocating in tunnels, he decided to get off in Kansas City.

“Everybody knew about Kansas City because of the stockyards and the packing houses,” he said.

Kansas City was also known for its jazz and swing music — and Hall arrived during the peak of the big band era.

“When the big bands came to town,” he recalled, “people would go to the [Municipal] Auditorium and dance. >> See “LIFELONG” on page 6

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LOCAL NEWS

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Strong marriages strengthen our church, community and nation

was informed recently about a 16-yearold inner-city young woman who shared that she had never been to a wedding and she did not know a happily married couple.

According to economist Dr. Jennifer Rohrbach Morse: “In 2005, 37 percent of all U.S. children were born to unmarried mothers.

This includes 70 percent of African American children, 48 percent of Hispanic children, and 25 percent of non-Hispanic whites.”

The impact of the breakdown of the marriage culture has been harmful for adults, but devastating for children.

Rohrbach Morse provides the following summary of the sociological data: “In virtually every way, children of intact married couple households do better than children from disrupted or never-formed families. These children are more likely to have physical and mental health problems. Even accounting for income, fatherless boys are more likely to be aggressive and to ultimately be incarcerated. A recent British study offers evidence that the children of single mothers are more likely to become schizophrenic. An extensive study of family structure was done in Sweden, the most generous welfare state in the world, where unmarried parenthood is widely accepted. Accounting for both the mental illness history of the parents as well as socioeconomic status, the study found that children of single parents faced double the risk of psychiatric disease, suicide attempts and substance abuse.”

Rohrbach Morse cited the conclusion of another

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN study that measured the statistical impact of nine percent fewer U.S. children in the year 2000 living with their married parents than in 1970. Had we been able to return to the almost 70 percent of children living with their married parents, the impact on our youth would have been: • 643,000 fewer American adolescents would have failed a grade; • 1,040,000 fewer would have been suspended from school; • 531,000 fewer adolescents would have needed therapy; • 464,000 fewer adolescents would have engaged in delinquent behavior; • 453,000 fewer youth would have been involved with violence; • 515,000 fewer youth would have begun smoking cigarettes; • 179,000 fewer youth would have considered suicide; • 62,000 fewer youth would have actually attempted suicide.

The effort to redefine the meaning of sexual intimacy as purely recreation for adults has had disastrous consequences on marriage and, in the end, winds up harm-

ing children, women and men. Cohabitation replacing the marital commitment and the increased divorce rate of the past 50 years has been devastating to the American family.

Children are the first casualties of a weakening of family life. Women are a close second because they most often bear the brunt of single parenting responsibility. The breakdown of a culture supportive of marriage has led to an increasing feminization of poverty.

Some considered men to be the apparent beneficiaries of changing social morals, gaining the opportunity for sexual privileges without assuming responsibility for the well-being of their female partners or children. In actuality, they, too, have been dramatically harmed. In the past, the commitment and responsibilities that are integral to marriage help to both civilize and mature men.

Sadly, statistically, when you compare everyone who identifies themselves as Catholics with the general population, there is not much difference.

However, if you compare Catholics who regularly attend Sunday Mass, their marriages have a significantly higher rate of success.

This coming Sunday,

Feb. 12, is World Marriage Day — a day devoted to recognizing and honoring the importance of marriage for our church, nation and culture. In the archdiocese, we are taking advantage of this worldwide celebration of marriage to launch The Joyful Marriage Project.

One of the super priorities for our pastoral vision was to strengthen marriage and family life in the archdiocese. Part of the implementation of this priority is to issue an invitation to every married couple in the archdiocese to make a commitment to do something during the coming year to strengthen and renew their marriage.

Wherever you attend Mass this weekend in northeast Kansas, you should be receiving information about The Joyful Marriage Project and how couples might choose to respond to this invitation. “Living in Love” retreats, Marriage Encounter weekends, Retrouvaille weekends, marriage seminars, days of reflection for couples, date nights and online materials from the School of Love or our archdiocesan marriage and family life office are some of the resources available to couples.

The Joyful Marriage Project is not primarily about programs or activities. First and foremost, we want as an archdiocesan church to communicate to married couples how important your marriages are to our church. We hope The Joyful Marriage Project gives couples permission to focus attention upon their relationship.

As a church, we want to encourage and support married couples in building their “dream home” — not consist-

ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN Feb. 11 White Mass — Nativity, Leawood Given KC conference — St. Mark Church, Independence, Missouri Feb. 12 World Marriage Day Mass — St. Thomas More, Kansas City, Missouri Feb. 13 Priests midday prayer and meeting Pastoral Council meeting Feb. 14 Administrative Team meeting Evening prayer and dinner with Jesuit novices — Cathedral Feb. 15 Donnelly board meeting Feb. 16-18 St. John Vianney Seminary visit

ing of brick and mortar, but in those words and actions that will renew and deepen their love for each other.

For those of us who are not married, we are invited to commit to praying for married couples that we know.

Every member of the archdiocese is asked to ponder what concretely each of us can do to encourage and support married couples in living their vocation.

As we embark on this initiative, I hope that those who are single, divorced, single parents, widowed, etc., will not feel neglected. Let me assure you that as church we have a con-

Feb. 18 F.I.R.E. retreat — Prairie Star Ranch Feb. 19 Pastoral visit — St. Michael, Axtell, and Holy Family, Summerfield Feb. 20 Communion and Liberation Mass — Queen of the Holy Rosary, Overland Park Feb. 21 Johnson County regional priests meeting Feb. 22 Mass — Immaculata High School, Leavenworth Confirmation — Sacred Heart/St. Joseph, Topeka Feb. 23 Catholic Education Foundation Futures Art Event — Boulevard Brewery Feb. 24-26 Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher winter meeting — Omaha

cern for your needs and the significant challenges you face. I have asked our family life office to evaluate how the church might better help and serve you.

However, at this moment, with the confusion about the nature of marriage and the cultural forces that undermine the efforts of couples to live their vows of love, it is necessary to focus resources and attention on strengthening marriage and family life. Whatever we can do to renew marriages in our society will, in turn, strengthen our church, our communities and our nation.

We all have a stake in marriage.

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Remember a gift to the church in your will

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

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FEBRUARY 10, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Archbishop hears from IMAC students on school’s closing

Immaculata High School senior Jackson Todd-Nichol raises his hand to ask Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann a question about the impending closing of Immaculata.

Archbishop Naumann explains to the student body of Immaculata why the decision to close the high school was made.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

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EAVENWORTH — On Jan. 30, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann traveled to Immaculata High School here to discuss with its students the decision to close their school at the end of the school year.

It wasn’t an easy trip, appropriately enough, since it was far from an easy decision.

But the archbishop wanted to explain in person to the people most immediately impacted by it why he had accepted the decision of the board of trustees of the Leavenworth Regional Catholic School System to close the school and to answer any questions the students might have.

In his opening remarks, Archbishop Naumann said three things must exist in our Catholic schools for them to be viable — faith formation, academic excellence and financial sustainability.

Although Immaculata was strong in the first two elements, the financial sustainability is where the school fell short.

“Despite everybody’s best efforts here in the community and the pastors, the parishes, your parents and all of you, this is what saddens me,” he said.

“You’re the ones who’ve been loyal and worked for the school,” he continued. “But in the end, I had to accept the board’s recommendation because I didn’t see any way for this situation to change.”

The archbishop then opened the floor to the students for their questions. Below is an excerpt of those exchanges.

Q

: If it had been announced earlier in the year that Immaculata was closing, would you have tried harder to keep it open?

A:

There have been a couple of efforts of that over this 10-year period, so it wasn’t like this decision was just made. A couple years ago, we were very close to having to do the same thing. Again, we told the board at that time they were going to have to raise a certain amount of money to make this sustainable. . . . As we discovered, the problem was deeper than what they realized, so even the amount of money they raised wasn’t enough to sustain the school for years.

The biggest issue wasn’t so much the money, as it was the enrollment. If

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

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we could grow the enrollment, if more families like yours were choosing this, that would’ve helped with the finances. . . . I know for some people it seemed like this was abrupt, but I can assure you it wasn’t.

Q:

Why weren’t we told about the 10-year plan before?

A:

There was no secrecy about it. The Meitler study 10 years ago was a very public event where everybody was consulted. And the plan was published, so there was no secrecy in this.

Two years ago, there was a major effort [and] people knew that Immaculata was close to closing. If it’s not something you’re directly responsible for, sometimes people don’t pay attention.

But it’s not that the information wasn’t there or wasn’t available.

Q:

Is there any intention for a Catholic secondary school to be revived in Leavenworth in the future?

A:

I can’t speak for the far distant future, but for the immediate future, I don’t see that as a realistic possibility.

You would have to . . . invest in reviving the school and maybe rebuilding a new facility. You have to show that there’s enough appetite — enough enrollment there — that would really justify it and

make it sensible. . . . Unfortunately, our demographics don’t show that. But demographics change. Could that change at some point in the future? Yes. But I don’t see it in the [near] future.

Q: Has the archdiocese decided

what will happen to the building?

A:

No, there isn’t any decision that’s been made on that. We would work with the community here, and what we would want is the best use of the building for the community, based again on how we would sustain and support it. . . . It really is the parishes in this region that would have to come up with that solution, with maybe some modest help from the archdiocese.

Q:

How will Xavier Grade School keep going without a Catholic high school to feed into?

A:

I’m not sure parents make the choice of an elementary school based on where [their children are] going to go to high school necessarily. . . . I think there is more of a capacity to fill an elementary school here with people who believe in it and want it, and I think it depends on having a quality program here.

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

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org

Reporter 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

Q:

Will this decision affect our parishes, since people may decide to move to another region for closer access to a Catholic high school?

A:

I think the vibrancy of our parishes depend on how well the parish life is, not necessarily just on [whether] there is a high school in town.

It may affect the people in terms of where they choose to live but, if our parishes are vibrant communities, I think people will stay. One of the things we’re trying to work at is how can we have good transportation available so that going to one of the other high schools is feasible, so there remains an opportunity for Catholic secondary education for people living in the Leavenworth Region.

Archbishop Naumann brought the discussion to a close by thanking the students and staff of Immaculata.

“I thank you for your love for Immaculata,” he said. “I hope these last months are going to be the best months for you — and I hope I’ll see all of you at another Catholic school next year.

“That’s my hope,” the archbishop added, “and that will be my prayer.”

Published weekly September through May, excepting the Friday the week after Thanksgiving, and the Friday after Christmas; biweekly June through August. Address communications to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Phone: (913) 721-1570; fax: (913) 721-5276; or e-mail at: sub@theleaven.com. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109.

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LOCAL NEWS

Whom will we let into the lifeboat?

“R

espect for the human person considers the other ‘another self.’ It presupposes respect for the fundamental rights that flow from the dignity intrinsic of the person” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1944).

“The differences among persons belong to God’s plan, who wills that we should need one another. These differences should encourage charity” (CCC, 1946).

Of the many memorable moments in the Oscar-winning film “Titanic,” one in particular came to mind this week. It is the scene following the sinking of the ship and the people in the lifeboats listening to the cries for help coming from the cold dark night on the northern Atlantic. Those lucky enough to be in a lifeboat convince themselves that taking on any more from the icy waters would be

GUEST COMMENTARY

BISHOP JAMES V. JOHNSTON JR. Bishop Johnston is the bishop of the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph.

dangerous and ill-advised.

There may be too many; it may jeopardize their own safety. There are other rational reasons. As the night goes on, the cries subside and then stop.

The reason this scene came to mind was the occurrence of two important events over the past weekend: the March

for Life and the [Trump] administration’s executive order temporarily limiting some refugees. Both relate to issues that affect scores of vulnerable human beings.

The March for Life occurs every January, marking the Roe v. Wade decision which made abortion on demand legal in all 50 states throughout the entire nine months of pregnancy. As technology and science advance, it is no longer arguable that when an abortion takes place, a child is killed. When an

ultrasound picture shows the face of the baby in the womb smiling and sucking her thumb, when the beating heart is noticed only several weeks after conception, it is hard to argue otherwise. The only argument left is one of power, fear and self-interest. Will the unborn child be allowed into the lifeboat?

The actions regarding refugees are similar. They are fleeing unimaginable violence and terror, arguably some of which was precipitated by America’s poor foreign policy decisions. They seek a safe harbor for themselves and their children.

The decision to turn away refugees and to close the door to those who are fleeing persecution is wrong. The fact that they are Muslim should not impede us from providing help. Welcoming the stranger, the migrant, the immigrant and the refugee has long been a hallmark for the best that

is America and is rooted in our Christian convictions.

Likewise, as Catholics, we believe it is our responsibility to care for the most vulnerable who come across our path needing help. Will the refugee be allowed into the lifeboat?

Self-interest and fear are real parts of the human condition. We are not wrong to want security and safety, which is why we have laws and law enforcement. Nations need borders for security much as our homes need locks for the doors. And yet, there is another good to be considered when we meet others in danger and needing help. Jesus captures this in what has come to be known as the Golden Rule: “So whatever you wish that men would do to you, do so to them: for this is the law and the prophets” (Mt 7:12; cf. Lk 6:31).

Catholic social teaching develops and applies

Retreat offers camp experience to women

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

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ILLIAMSBURG — For years, moms have asked Debbie Nearmyer and the Camp Tekakwitha staff here when they can have their own camp experience like their kids do each summer.

Nearmyer, co-director of Camp Tekakwitha and director of faith formation at St. James Academy in Lenexa, finally can tell them the time has come. The first-ever Camp Tekakwitha women’s retreat, called “Abundant Love,” will be held this April.

“The purpose of the retreat,” said Nearmyer, “is to give women an opportunity to relax, rejuvenate and reconnect.”

“The retreat will offer time for silence, personal and communal prayer, sacraments, space to enjoy the beauty of Prairie Star Ranch and an opportunity to build community with other women in the archdiocese,” she added.

“Abundant Love” will take place from April 28-30 and is open to women age 21 and older.

Early bird registration costs $125 and ends March 1. Registration starting March 2 costs $140 and ends April 15.

A team of nine women will lead the retreat and Father Scott Wallisch will serve as chaplain.

“These are women who have been on staff, who were campers or have a deep desire for the new evangelization,” said Nearmyer. “They are also women from varying ages and stages of life and experience.”

Kimberly Rode, consultant for adult evangelization in the archdiocese and part of the retreat team, has

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LEAVEN PHOTO BY DOUG HESSE

The first-ever Camp Tekakwitha women’s retreat, called “Abundant Love,” will be held April 28-30. high hopes for the women who say “yes” to the opportunity.

“The retreat is for women that are seeking the heart of Christ to come together,” said Rode.

It’s a rare chance, she said, “to really be out in nature and disconnect in a way from the busyness.”

The retreat will offer large and small group sessions, individual reflection, Mass, reconciliation and eucharistic adoration.

It will also include Taize-style prayer, crafting and free time to relax and explore the Prairie Star grounds.

“Because this is a Camp Tekakwitha women’s retreat, it will have some elements of camp and even give the women a chance to enjoy the adventure of bunk beds and cabin living,” said Nearmyer.

Both women believe this will be a chance to escape the chaos of everyday life and relax in the presence of God.

“In our fast-paced, scheduled world,” said Nearmyer, “it seems important to take time and allow ourselves to receive the abundant and ever-flowing love of God. “The world tears us down, tells us what we need to be, but Our Lord wants us to know who he made us to be.”

It will also be a way for women around the archdiocese to get to know one another and build community.

Rode hopes the women who attend will experience “growth in their faith and deepening in friendships, and just to feel loved and cherished by Christ and other women who are seeking the same thing.”

To register or find out more about the “Abundant Love” retreat, visit the website at: www.camptekakwithawomensretreat.com.

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this even further, explaining that every human person has an inviolable dignity and is created in the image and likeness of God. As members of the human race, we are also in solidarity with all other persons. God has made us dependent on one another as well as himself. We share a common home, the planet Earth, given for the good of all.

As the vulnerable in the womb and of the world turn to us for help, let us resist the temptation to see their plight through a polarized political lens, or to respond out of fear and self-interest.

Rather, let us realize we are blessed to be in the lifeboat. When we hear a cry for help, will we allow another in?

Reprinted with permission from The Catholic Key, newspaper of the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph.

USM presents 19th annual Lincoln event

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EAVENWORTH — The University of Saint Mary here will host prominent 13th Amendment historian Dr. Michael Vorenberg for its 19th annual Lincoln Event. He will speak on “Lincoln, the 13th Amendment, and the Struggle for American Peace & Freedom” — exploring the key moments in the passage of the amendment and the activities in the last months of Lincoln’s presidency to ensure the permanence of freedom — at 7 p.m. on Feb. 20.

Admission is free. The program will be in Xavier Theatre on USM’s main campus, located at 4100 S. 4th St. Seating is limited. A reception will follow. For more information, visit the website at: stmary.edu/ Lincoln.

“The University of Saint Mary is, once again, very pleased to host its annual Lincoln Event,” said university provost Dr. Bryan Le Beau. “We are honored to have Dr. Vorenberg, a nationally known historian presenting at this year’s Lincoln Event.”

Vorenberg’s first book, “Final Freedom: The Civil War, the Abolition of Slavery, and the Thirteenth Amendment,” was a finalist for the Gilder Lehrman Lincoln Prize, a prestigious annual award honoring the finest literature on the Civil War era, and referenced by producer Steven Spielberg in the creation of his epic 2012 historical drama, “Lincoln.”

“Lincoln” captured the brilliant maneuvering of the 16th president to pass the 13th Amendment in Congress, but what is left untold is Lincoln’s work after its passing on Jan. 31, 1865. The amendment still needed to be ratified by the states, and Lincoln played a decisive role in the process, though he did not live to see its declaration in December 1865.

Vorenberg’s presentation will address Lincoln’s plan for peace following the amendment’s ratification and the question of whether the peace and freedom following the Civil War fulfilled Lincoln’s vision.

Attendees will be able to view pieces from USM’s extensive Bernard H. Hall Lincoln Collection, including a rare original copy of the 13th Amendment signed by President Lincoln.

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FEBRUARY 10, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Couple works to strengthen Catholic schools

By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Even as the former Catholic Education Foundation team of Michael and Patty Morrisey continue working with its new executive director Bill Kirk to ensure a seamless transition, the couple has already started a new project under the auspices of the Catholic schools office of the archdiocese.

The couple, parishioners at St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, will be working in cooperation with superintendent Kathy O’Hara and Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann to help schools in underserved areas enhance their potential to achieve self-sustainability.

“Catholic schools across the country have been facing challenges with enrollment and finances,” said O’Hara. “Last year, at this time, the USCCB (U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops) sponsored a session on these very topics.

“It was hosted by Notre Dame Alliance for Catholic Education, and, at that conference, there were a couple of presentations that talked about different ways to approach this problem.”

But these presentations only brought into focus something the archdiocese had already been working on: the need for schools to use strategic development plans to help them become more self-sustaining.

“My earnest desire is for all our Catholic schools to thrive,” said Archbishop Naumann. “Our rural Catholic schools are important — not just to Catholics, but for the vibrancy of the entire community.

“Catholic schools are especially important in our urban-core parishes, where young people are threatened by violence, drugs and other challenges that impact even more economically poor communities.”

The success of CEF under the Morriseys’ guidance, combined with their business acumen and intimate knowledge of archdiocesan schools, made them the perfect choice to spearhead a pilot program addressing this need for long-range strategic planning.

And though not officially titled, their new endeavor has come to be known as the pilot sustainability program.

“We identified a select number of schools [for the pilot],” said O’Hara.

“To help them, the three areas that Michael and Patty are going to be focusing on are leadership development, fund development and enrollment.”

It is a natural transition for the Morriseys.

“With CEF, they were creating opportunities to send more disadvantaged youth to Catholic schools,” said CEF board chair Joan Wells.

“Now, they are consulting with and strengthening those very schools.”

Knowing the schools through their CEF experience, Michael Morrisey believes he and Patty are most suited to help them become more successful in the areas identified by the archdiocese.

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Carol and Jim Schemmel, members of St. Joseph Parish, S h a w nee, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Feb. 25.

The couple was married at St. Mary Church in Alton, Iowa, in 1967. Their children are: Geoffrey, Kyle, Gretchen, Larissa, Megan, Nathan, Sara, Michael and Alisa. They celebrated their anniversary at Christmastime with their family of nine children and 13 grandchildren.

Raymond G. Mauer and Barbara E. (Lechm a n ) , members of Sacred H e a r t Parish, Paxico, celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on Feb. 9 with family. The couple was married on Feb. 9, 1952, at St. Joseph Church, Topeka. Their children are: Chris Harding, Raymond Mauer Jr., Mark Mauer, Julia Hertlein, Greg Mauer and Angela Anderson. They also have 13 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

ANNIVERSARY POLICY Michael and Patty Morrisey now spearhead a pilot program addressing the need for long-range strategic planning in Catholic schools.

“All of our schools are doing some good things,” he said. “What we want to do is enhance what they’re currently doing.”

Morrisey knows from experience that future success begins with a sound board or council.

“So, we are working to create active boards comprised of good business people that can bring time, talent and treasure to each of these schools,” he said.

And the Morriseys have the perfect model to emulate.

“The CEF board was incredibly well-selected, well-assembled, high-functioning and very effective,” said Wells. “So, I think Michael will be able to take that kind of ‘secret sauce’ of what he has done with the CEF board and then, moving forward, look at how to do that same type of thing in the schools.”

“We’re working to create a committee structure within each of these situations,” said Morrisey. “It goes from having the right board with the right mindset, moves into fundraising and from fundraising to enrollment.

“If it’s done that way we can help these schools increase their enrollment, and that’s the ultimate goal.”

The pilot program began last August when the Morrisey team met with principals, board chairs and pastors.

“We’ve had meetings with every school to introduce what we’re doing in general terms,” explained Morrisey. “Now, we’re taking it by pieces and the first piece is board/ council development.

“So we’re making presentations to the respective schools and boards

The eight pilot program schools are: • Bishop Ward, Kansas City, Kansas • Holy Family, Topeka • Holy Name, Kansas City, Kansas • John Paul II, Overland Park • Mater Dei, Topeka • St. Patrick, Kansas City, Kansas • Resurrection School at the Cathedral, Kansas City, Kansas • Xavier, Leavenworth

on what this is all about and how we’re proposing to do it.

“And then [it’s] on to fundraising and development and enrollment — all of that is going to come from the board once it is enhanced.”

The pilot will run through May of this year and then be evaluated for implementation in other schools.

The future prospects could be far-reaching.

“The thing that I’m most excited about is that what we’re doing with this pilot is unique across the country,” said O’Hara.

“And if it’s successful,” she added, “then I believe we will not only help our own local Catholic community, but it may have implications for Catholic schools in a broader context.”

And it all begins with two angels among us willing to continue their commitment to Catholic education.

“I am thrilled that Michael and Patty Morrisey are sharing their expertise and skills to help these schools take the necessary steps to insure a bright future,” said Archbishop Naumann.

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

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Recovery retreat set for Feb. 24-26 at Marillac Center LEAVENWORTH — “Growing Up with the 12 Steps” will be the focus of a recovery retreat Feb. 24-26, facilitated by Father Jim Harbaugh, SJ, at the Marillac Center here.

In addition to 12-step literature, the retreat will combine the wisdom of contemporary spiritual writers along with insights from the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola.

The recovery retreat will run from 7 p.m. on Feb. 24 until 11:30 a.m. on Feb. 26. Donation for this retreat is $50 for commuters (includes lunch) and $150 for overnight guests (includes four meals).

Scholarships are available.

For more information, visit the website at: www.marillaccenter.org to download the brochure to register; call (913) 758-6552; or send an email to: retreats@scls.org.

2/7/17 4:10 PM

FEBRUARY 10, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Lifelong learner never looks back

TOOLS FOR FAMILIES Growing as Disciples of Jesus

>> Continued from page 1

The power of prayer

B

edtime prayer with our kids is a typical ritual that is easily overlooked or done with something memorized like: “Now I lay me down to sleep.” This is an incredible opportunity not only to teach our children the importance of prayer, but how to pray. Try incorporating these into your nightly prayer: ARTWORK BY NEILSON CARLIN, 2015 • Something they are grateful for.

• Something to be forgiven for.

• An intention for help for them or someone else.

— Ray Martin

WEBSITE EXCLUSIVE

CHURCH OF THE WEEK

“That’s where I met her.”

Hall and Gloria Thompson began their relationship as the country entered World War II. “I hadn’t planned on getting married because I was quite young at the time,” he said. “But I was going into the military.

“Her mother and father talked it over and said I might not come back.

“So they agreed to let us get married.”

Hall did come back and, to this day, he can tell you exactly how long he served: “three years, six months and seventeen days.”

He battled in New Guinea and the southern Philippines. He earned the American Defense Service Medal, the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, the Philippine Liberation Ribbon with one bronze star, the WWII Victory Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.

His total pay was $300.

Life and leisure

Holy Name, Topeka (Mater Dei Parish)

Address: 10th and Clay Phone: (785) 232-7744 Pastor: Father John Pilcher Mass Times: Saturday, 5 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Website: www.materdeiparish.org MORE PHOTOS AND A VIDEO TOUR of this church can be seen online at: www.theleaven.org

Leaven 02-10-17.indd 6

6

The couple raised their three children — Hazel, Herbie and Marie — in Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, which eventually consolidated with St. Rose of Lima Parish to become Our Lady & St. Rose.

“We grew up in the Catholic elementary school system,” said Hazel. “When we were little kids, we lived on 8th Street; then we moved to 10th and Quindaro.”

Hall supported his family working in sales with the Seller Marquis Roofing Company.

But even after retiring from that profession, he continued working in machine maintenance at New

“

“I DON’T GO BACK OVER THE OLDER TIMES. ANY HOUR OF THE DAY, SOME NEWS IS ON THAT I MANAGE TO GO FIND AND KEEP UP WITH WHAT’S GOING ON TODAY.” Willie Hall, Our Lady and St. Rose, Kansas City, Kansas, parishioner Century and then for the Marriott Hotel.

He finally accepted a life of leisure at the age of 83.

But he never retired his mind.

“I read a lot,” he said. “Some books I read two or three times because I get something different out of them [each time].”

“He knows what’s going on,” said his daughter-in-law Paulette Hall. “He loves to talk about everything that’s happening in the world.”

Indeed, this centenarian believes in staying current and avidly keeps track of the latest news in sports and politics.

“I don’t go back over the older times,” he said. “Any hour of the day, some news is on that I manage to go find and keep up with what’s going on today.”

The one exception is when he visits his wife who is now in a nursing home.

“The things happening today are kind of hard for her to understand,” said Hall, “so we talk about past things.”

Change and the future When he does reflect on the past, Hall says the biggest changes he’s seen don’t involve technology, but people.

“A lot of things have happened on my road to 100 years,” he said.

“But the biggest change is I think people today are crazier than they used to be.”

“Very few young people plan things,” he continued. “They just do it. And they don’t have mercy about hurting others.”

“I don’t think I have the knowledge to say how things should be,” he’s quick to add. “But I think people just have to get together.”

“It’s like a sports team,” he said.

“I don’t care how good or smart they are. If they’re not together, they’re not going to get anything done.”

How much of that pulling together does Hall expect to live to see?

The question doesn’t really concern him.

“I didn’t have any idea that I would live this long,” he said.

“But I never was afraid of dying — whether I die laying down or sitting up in a chair, that doesn’t worry me.

“Anybody that has died has never come back to tell anyone what is beyond the grave. I don’t know either.

“It’s like when Columbus came to America, he didn’t know where he was going, but it turned out OK. “I just believe the Lord takes care of everybody.”

2/7/17 4:10 PM

FEBRUARY 10, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

7

Dinner celebrates vocations, honors current seminarians

By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Mo. — One hundred was the magic number at the annual Support Our Seminarians (SOS) benefit dinner at Union Station here on Jan. 27.

“One hundred seminarians!” announced Conception Abbey’s Abbot Benedict Neenan, OSB, as he took the stage. “Twice the number we had at the first SOS 25 years ago!”

The evening, celebrating the 100th anniversary of Our Lady of Fatima, included a “marketplace” where many donated items were available for sale, along with delicious bakery products made at Conception Abbey in Conception, Missouri.

Retired Kansas City newscaster Larry Moore, who has been the master of ceremonies for the annual event since its beginning, was on hand with his wife Ruth to announce their continued support for vocations. But he turned the master of ceremonies duties over to Curé of Ars, Leawood, parishioner and FOX 4 reporter Kathy Quinn.

“We’re very proud of the success of SOS,” he said. “And we’re grateful for the many volunteers that made it possible.”

Quinn began the evening by introducing the chairs of this year’s benefit dinner — her brother, Donald Quinn, and his wife Mary.

Leaven 02-10-17.indd 7

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD

Msgr. Mike Mullen, director of seminarians for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, addresses the crowd at the Support Our Seminarians benefit dinner on Jan. 27 in Kansas City, Missouri.

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann and Bishop James V. Johnston Jr. of the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph flew in from the March for Life in Washington, D.C., just in time to speak to the guests.

“It’s been an amazing, inspiring day,” said Bishop Johnston referring to the march. “There were people as far as the eye could see.

“The young church full of faith putting their enthusiasm and joy at the service of love.”

The bishop spoke with pride about the many seminarians at the march from both dioceses.

“We have to provide the right encouragement for the seeds of faith to grow in these young men,” he said.

He thanked the audience for their prayers and contributions that support the men who “one day will become your priests.”

Archbishop Naumann echoed that thanks.

“These great seminarians come from families like those gathered here,” he said, “families that value the priesthood — the numbers are good, but the quality is equally important.”

Abbot Benedict urged the audience

to recognize that quality in young people and to guide them to consider religious vocations.

“They need encouragement,” he said. “Often just someone saying, ‘Have you ever thought about being a priest?’ or ‘I think you would make a good Sister,’ is all it takes.”

Curé of Ars pastor Father Richard Storey gave a talk on Our Lady of Fatima — the theme for the evening.

He spoke of Mary’s “fiat,” saying, “We’re each called in that same way.”

And he addressed the seminarians saying, “Don’t give into despair, don’t think you’re not worthy. You are worthy.”

Seminarian Cruz Gallegos described his own discernment, recounting the time he spent in eucharistic adoration, as well as his devotion to the rosary and Our Lady of Guadalupe.

He talked about the importance of supporting seminarians with prayers and financial contributions.

“Because of you,” he said to the audience, “I and my brother seminarians are able to learn and pray in peace without worrying about finances.

“Thank you.”

The seminarians took to the stage to a standing ovation as guests filled out donor cards.

The proceeds from the evening support young men in formation for the priesthood in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph and Conception Seminary College.

2/7/17 4:10 PM

wanted me an gave m them.”

Judi who to Jerusal You jsudire

PHOTO COURTESY BARBARA FRASER

Barbara Fraser reports on the church's work with Amazonian indigenous communities in Peru, where whirlpools are a greater risk than icebergs for a riverboat called the Titanic V.

P

‘TO THE ENDS OF THE EARTH’

ope Francis often talks of wanting a church that reaches out to the peripheries.

But here in the Heartland, even Hutchinson sometimes seems a long ways away.

So, The Leaven chose to celebrate Catholic Press Month this year by inviting Catholic News Service’s international editor Barb Fraze to share with our readers the stories of four of her stringers (freelance writers) who report on the work of the Catholic Church from all corners of the globe — literally.

Barb identifies, assigns and then edits their stories for publications like ours, trying to keep readers informed of developments in our everchanging, global church.

Barb said she is proud to work with a whole cast of talented characters, but has chosen to describe these four, whose bylines you might recognize.

PHOTO COURTESY OF DAVID AGREN

By Barb Fraze International editor Catholic News Service

J

udith Sudilovsky is an animal lover.

At her Jerusalem home, she has four dogs and a cat — all rescued — and two chickens.

She is the daughter of Argentine immigrants to the United States, so she is fluent in Spanish, as well as English and Hebrew. She also knows basic Arabic.

Judith moved to Israel after getting her master’s in journalism at American University in Washington. She married

Leaven 02-10-17.indd 8

and has two teen boys, both of whom are active in judo.

Over 20 years, she has covered the spectrum of stories from the Holy Land.

She has written about two Palestinian intifadas, covered three popes traveling to Jerusalem, reported on water shortages in the Palestinian territories and was there to document the occasion when Yad Vashem, Israel’s official memorial to the victims of the Holocaust, named Catholics to The Righteous Among the Nations.

She has traveled to Sudan, written about Ethiopian migrants, filed stories

David Agren interviews a broom salesman in the western Mexico town of San Luis Soyatlan. from Argentina and, recently, Central America.

But let me return to her love of animals. Several years ago, after an Epiphany ceremony on the Jordan River, Judith rescued a dove injured when he had gotten knocked off a golden ceremonial staff.

Participants plopped the dove back onto the staff, but apparently the dove had broken its wing in the fall. So when all the doves were released at the end of the ceremony, the injured bird fell into

the river.

After the ceremony, “I asked one priest what was going to happen to the dove, and he said, ‘I guess he will die,’” Judith recounted. So she asked a police officer in rain gear if he could get the dove, but he refused.

“So, I put my purse down and middleaged me climbed into the river almost to my hips to get him.”

When she got out, she said, pilgrims on both sides of the river applauded her.

“And the ones on the Israeli side all

2/7/17 4:10 PM

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Follow your faves on Twitter Celebrate Catholic Press Month by signing up to follow your favorite Catholic journalists and publications, like @theleavenkc, on Twitter.

Once you sign up for a Twitter account, you can search for someone by name or by their Twitter handle, which is preceded by the @ symbol.

Many online publications and sites, such as @CatholicNewsSvc, have links to their Twitter accounts when you click on the little Twitter bird.

Why not just wait to see it on the news? Because you probably won't.

Most breaking news is reported in Twitter first. Also, Catholic journalists link to stories and photos you won't find in the regular media.

No need to “tweet” yourself. You can follow the conversation without participating.

— BF1

wanted to have their picture taken with me and touch me,” she said. “And they gave me religious trinkets with saints on them.”

Judith gave the dove to a park ranger, who took him to a bird hospital at the Jerusalem zoo.

You can follow Judith on Twitter: @ jsudireports.

O

ur correspondent in Mexico, David Agren, is Canadian.

He majored in journalism at Mount Royal College in Calgary, Alberta, and spent two student exchanges studying in Mexico. When he was offered a job at an English-language paper in Guadalajara, he took it and has been in Mexico ever since.

In his years writing for Catholic News Service, his assignments have included papal trips to Bolivia, Mexico and the United States; the reaction in Argentina after the election of Pope Francis; and issues ranging from the Haitian earthquake to the priests serving parishes in Mexican regions rife with drug violence.

He confesses to eating too many tacos, having a bad haircut and showing fondness for failed sports franchises like the Montreal Expos. He also likes to travel and read nonfiction.

When I asked him about a memorable moment writing for Catholic News Service, he told me he “once witnessed the world’s biggest water fight as shrimpers and their families doused each other with holy water after receiving a blessing from their village priest on their shrimping grounds.”

You can follow David on Twitter: @ el_reportero.

PHOTO COURTESY OF PAUL JEFFREY

Paul Jeffrey (center) on assignment in Pakistan, with government-provided special forces soldiers who served as bodyguards.

While covering demonstrations in Cairo’s Tahrir Square in 2012, Paul was beaten badly by Egyptian police. He spent the following two days photographing the square from his hotel balcony, holding ice on his bruises, “drinking copious amounts of beer, and using a long lens to capture the action,” as he described it.

In the 1990s, Paul wrote a book about the churches’ role in the Guatemalan peace process. Part of the research involved a visit to the rural hamlet of Tabil, where forensic anthropologists from the Catholic Church were digging up victims of an army massacre. At the end of the day, Paul was photographing human remains in the bottom of a muddy pit, when villagers climbed into the pit and started praying around the skeletons.

At one point, Paul recalled, the widow of one of the victims turned to him and asked him to pray. He said he was intensely aware at that point that he was a U.S. citizen, and it was his government that had financed and directed the repression suffered by the villagers.

In public talks, he often describes

the situation and asks people what they would pray in those circumstances.

You can view Paul’s work online at: www.kairosphotos.com.

M

y journalism twin is Barbara Fraser, and if I have to be mistaken for anyone, it is great to be mistaken for her.

We affectionately refer to each other as BF1 and BF2 and, being smart enough to know that I edit her copy, she bestowed the BF1 title on me.

Barbara lives in Peru. She went to Latin America as a Maryknoll lay missioner in 1989 and spent 14 years in the role. Beginning in 1997, she also served as director and later English-language editor of Latinamerica Press. She has been freelancing since 2003.

She earned her master's degree in environmental studies from Green Mountain College in Poultney, Vermont, and has written for publications like Science, Nature, Scientific American and National Geographic Online. We’ve had discussions about what kinds of tents work

P

aul Jeffrey is not active on Twitter but his website — kairos photos.com — gives you a literal glimpse into this very talented photographer and writer. He could win an award for most-traveled CNS stringer. He has written for us from five continents, and his stories and photos from Sudan rival those of any major news organization.

Paul is a Methodist minister, and he writes for such agencies as the ACT Alliance and United Methodist News, so he often piggybacks assignments by writing for CNS, too. In his spare time, he likes to camp and tinker with his 30-yearold Volkswagen camper van. He has a wicked sense of humor, a deep spirituality and a strong sense of justice.

Leaven 02-10-17.indd 9

PHOTO COURTESY CATHOLIC RELIEF SERVICES

Judith Sudilovsky interviews a Guatemalan woman on her recent trip to Central America as a recipient of the 2016 Egan Journalism Fellowship.

best when she is climbing on glaciers.

That ability to go from sea level to mountain passes has served Barbara well as she has traveled around Latin America writing for Catholic News Service. She traveled to Aparecida, Brazil, to cover the 1997 meeting of bishops from Latin America and the Caribbean, a meeting at which they reaffirmed the church's commitment to justice and peace and pledged to care for creation and value the contributions of youth, women, indigenous people and Afro-Americans.

The head of the commission that drafted the meeting's final document was Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Buenos Aires, Argentina — now Pope Francis.

Since then, she has covered Pope Francis on his trip to Brazil for World Youth Day, as well as his visits to Ecuador and Paraguay. But she also has written on diverse topics such as the church's work with prisoners, programs that help Bolivian children with disabilities and South Korean priests ministering to Korean migrants in Peru.

Nearly three years ago, Barbara had an experience that refocused her energies.

“Two Spanish Augustinian priests working in the Peruvian Amazon invited me to accompany them on a two-week trip up the Urituyacu River, where they celebrated baptisms and marriages in Urarina Indian communities,” she told me. “They also listened to people's problems — the schools without teachers, the health centers without medicines, the woman whose underage and mentally challenged son had been ‘recruited’ by some soldiers and taken away to an army base.

“I had lived in Peru for 25 years, but that trip changed my life by bringing me face to face with a world that was new to me. I realized later that I had become too complacent, that I had been overlooking serious injustices in the country, and that the trip was the Holy Spirit’s way of flinging me back out to what Francis calls ‘the periphery’ and reminding me of why I do what I do.”

You can follow BF2 on Twitter: @Barbara_Fraser. BF1’s Twitter handle is @BFraze.

2/7/17 4:10 PM

FEBRUARY 10, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

10

St. Jude relic on display in Lawrence, Manhattan

S

ALINA — While St. Jude is often what we know of the life and times of the thought of as the patron saint of patron saint of difficult and seeming imlost causes, the message will be possible situations. one of hope across four Kansas “In today’s world, people tend to put towns. their faith in human organizations or “We will talk about the importance of structures rather than in God,” he said. hope and why people turn to St. Jude,” “We’re kind of setting ourselves up for a said Father Michail Ford, a Dominican friar fall if we do that.” and spiritual director of the ministries of In Manhattan, he will talk about what the Dominican Shrine of St. Jude in Chicahope really is, how it works in concert go. with the other theological virtues of faith Four stops are scheduled in Kansas: 7 and love, and why many people in today’s p.m. Feb. 19 at Sacred Heart Caworld may have trouble finding thedral in Salina; 7 p.m. Feb. 20 it. at St. Robert Bellarmine - St. IsaAt Junction City, many of the dore Catholic Student Center in religious education students will Manhattan; 7 p.m. Feb. 22 at St. be present.

Francis Xavier Church in Junction “We’ll do more of a general City; and 7 p.m. at the St. Lawpresentation on Catholic devorence Catholic Campus Center in tions and the basic information Lawrence. on relics and what they are,” “In today’s crazy world, Father Michail said. people need to understand what In Lawrence, Father Michail hope is and where it comes from, will speak on the topic: “Relics St. Jude and where we should place our and their veneration: what are hope, which is in Christ,” Father Michail they and why they still matter.” said.

“It will be aimed more at Catholic apolEach evening will include the opportuogists,” he said. “People who want to be nity to venerate the arm relic of St. Jude able to explain about venerating relics.”

Thaddeus, the largest relic of an apostle The relic of St. Jude has been with the housed outside of Rome. Father Michail Dominicans in Chicago since 1929. said he will also give blessings to people “The shrine opened within a few with oil blessed with the St. Jude relic, months of the stock market crash,” Father which he said is similar to the blessing of Michail said. the throat in the name of St. Blaise.

Each day, at least 200 people visit Each location will include general inthe shrine, asking St. Jude to help them formation about St. Jude and the mission in their needs or thanking St. Jude for of the Shrine of St. Jude in Chicago. Yet, the help they have received. Each week, there will be a different focus each night. the friars receive nearly 2,000 prayer reIn Salina, Father Michail will talk about quests from people seeking prayers. why hope is important in today’s world, as For more information, visit the website well as provide a historical perspective on at: the-shrine.org.

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2/7/17 4:10 PM

FEBRUARY 10, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

NATION

11

Bishops urge Trump to protect religious freedom

By Carol Zimmermann Catholic News Service

W

ASHINGTON (CNS) — Saying “religious freedom in America has suffered years of unprecedented erosion,” the U.S. Catholic bishops have posted an online letter for Catholics to send to President Donald Trump urging him to sign an executive order promoting religious freedom.

The letter, found at www.votervoice. net/USCCB/Campaigns, says the president can “restore the federal government’s respect for the religious freedom of individuals and organizations” with an executive order that establishes a “government-wide initiative to respect religious freedom.” Individuals can sign the letter and hit a link to submit it to Trump.

A leaked draft version of a potential religious freedom order was circulating in the media and among federal staff and advocacy groups at the end of January. When White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer was asked about the draft Jan. 30, he said he would not get “ahead of the executive orders that we may or may not issue.” He noted that there have been a lot of executive actions and “a lot of things that the president has talked about and will continue to fulfill, but we have nothing on that front now.”

A White House official told ABC News that the leaked draft on religious freedom is one of hundreds of circulating orders that were either written by

Leaven 02-10-17.indd 11

the transition team or the White House.

Although Spicer did not elaborate on the leaked document, he told reporters that freedom of religion in the U.S. should mean “people should be able to practice their religion, express their religion, express areas of their faith without reprisal.”

“And I think that pendulum sometimes swings the other way in the name of political correctness,” he added.

The four-page draft has raised concerns among those who said it would legalize discrimination and was too far-reaching, but University of Notre Dame law professor Richard Garnett said in an email to Catholic News Service that the “critics are dramatically overstating” what the order can do.

The draft states that “Americans and their religious organizations will not be coerced by the federal government into participating in activities that violate their consciences.” It also notes that people and organizations do not “forfeit their religious freedom when providing social services, education or health care.” It cites the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, which states that government “shall not substantially burden a person’s exercise of religion” unless that burden “is the least restrictive means to further a compelling governmental interest.”

The U.S. bishops, who have made religious liberty a priority, have not released a statement on potential executive action on religious freedom by Trump but in the online letter available for Catholics to sign stressed such an

order should include some of the following measures: • Relief from the Affordable Care Act’s contraceptive mandate. Currently, the mandate — issued by the federal Department of Health and Human Services as part of the implementation of the health care law — requires most religious employers to provide coverage of artificial birth control for their employees even if the employer is morally opposed to such coverage. There is a very narrow exemption for churches.

• Preservation of tax-exempt status for nonprofit groups that hold beliefs based on marriage and human sexuality.

• The ability of religious organizations that partner with the federal government to act according to their beliefs regarding marriage, human sexuality and the protection of human life at all stages.

• The ability of religiously affiliated child welfare providers to provide adoption, foster or family support services for children that coincide with their religious beliefs.

• Conscience protections about abortion in the individual health insurance market.

The bishops’ letter said any executive order on religious freedom should make it clear that this freedom should not just be about a person’s ability to freely worship but should include “the ability to act on one’s beliefs.”

“It should also protect individuals and families who run closely held businesses in accordance with their faith to the greatest extent possible,” the letter said.

2/7/17 4:10 PM

FEBRUARY 10, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CLASSIFIEDS EMPLOYMENT Teachers and assistant teacher - The Goddard School in Olathe is seeking a preschool teacher, a pre-kindergarten teacher and a toddler teacher - all full-time positions - as well as an assistant teacher for multiple classrooms.

Lead and assistant teachers work together. Daily responsibilities are: developing lesson plans; meeting the individual needs of the children; communicating with parents; participation in staff and training meetings; designing appropriate room arrangement to support the goals and development level of the children in the classroom; interacting with the children to support play, exploration and learning; presenting expectations that are appropriate to the child’s age and developmental level; plan and implement activities that develop self-esteem and social skills; communicate appropriately and professionally with parents and fellow staff; building teamwork; use assessment tools; and commit to continuing education. To apply, email a resume and cover letter to: olathe2ks@goddardschools.com.

Live–in position - Sanctuary of Hope in Kansas City, Kansas, has an opening for an individual interested in a live-in position. Benefits and duties include: being committed to prayer and serving others; committed to their on-going formation and growth in knowledge and faith, and being open to all spiritual paths, faiths and ethnic groups; being committed to living a community life of sharing with other at Sanctuary of Hope and House of Peace, and taking on certain areas of responsibility, such as attending set prayer times and, when needed, helping with tasks inside and outside of the buildings.

There would be time for vacations and visiting family and friends. Must provide own health insurance and be of reasonably good health. To apply, complete an application form, have three references of recommendation and meet with Father Dennis Wait. If interested, contact Father Dennis Wait at (913) 321-3827 or send an email to: frwait@aol.com.

Web manager – The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is accepting applications for a full-time web manager.

Duties include managing and maintaining internal websites and managing the digital media center. The ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic in good standing.

Position requires bachelor’s degree in related field, and the candidate must have past experience in web design and management. Knowledge of Blackbaud Net Community a plus. A complete job description and required application are available on the archdiocese’s website at: www. archkck.org/jobs. Interested individuals should mail cover letter, resume and application by Feb. 20 to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, Webmaster, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, or send via email to: jobs@archkck.org.

Campus minister - The St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center at the University of Kansas is now accepting applications for a campus minister. The campus minister reports to the director of mission focus and ensures that all activities of St. Lawrence that affect students are effective in achieving the center’s strategic plan. Essential functions: collaborates fully and effectively in the center’s mentor and discipleship initiatives; manages activity and contributes to the formation of St. Lawrence volunteers and student ministry council members to ensure their alignment with the center’s mission and vision; organizes outreach events and coordinates new initiatives to engage all KU students; manages the student ministry council committees and their events; communicates the vision and mission of St. Lawrence both internally and externally. Qualifications: bachelor’s degree; practicing Catholic who upholds all church teachings by manner of life; able to throw great parties; original thinker and conversation starter; fearlessly relishes encounters with new people; enthusiasm and great people skills; excellent communication skills; ability to organize and prioritize; team player. Salary commensurate with ability and experience. To apply, email a cover letter and resume to Stacy Cretors at: scretors@kucatholic.org.

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.

Administrative assistant - Applications are being accepted for an administrative assistant at Hayden Catholic High School. This is a full-time position, Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; eligible for benefits.

The ideal candidate will be well-organized, customeroriented and capable of handling multiple projects in a busy environment. This job requires the operation of a computer and related software including Microsoft Word, Excel and Publisher. Previous secretarial experience is preferred. Qualified applicants should email a resume to James Sandstrom at: sandstromj@hayden catholic.net.

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Principal - Co-cathedral Parish of St. Joseph seeks a principal committed to Catholic education with strong leadership, communication and motivational skills.

Co-cathedral School is a parish school in a vibrant parish community with growing enrollment serving K to 8th-grade students. Cathedral School is located in downtown St. Joseph, Missouri. Applicant must be a practicing Catholic, should have a master’s degree in educational administration, teaching experience and preferably three years’ administrative experience. This position leads school programs that ensure not only academic excellence but also the spiritual, moral, physical and emotional development of the school community.

This person is supervised by the pastor of the parish and the assigned superintendent of schools. Apply at the Diocese of Kansas City-St Joseph website or use this link: careers.hireology.com/thecatholicdioceseofkansas citystjoseph.

Assistant to ReachKCK coordinator – The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is accepting applications for a part-time administrative position in the ReachKCK youth ministry outreach of the office of evangelization and Catholic formation of youth. This position is approximately 15 hours per week. Duties include supporting youth programs and events, creating publicity materials, data entry, managing social media and handling various logistics. Ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic in good standing and have a minimum of three years’ work experience, including at least one year of administrative experience. Knowledge of youth ministry in an urban setting and Spanish preferred. A complete job description and required application are available on the archdiocese’s website at: www.archkck.org/jobs. Interested individuals should mail cover letter, resume and application by Feb. 14 to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, Youth Search, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, or send via email to: jobs@ archkck.org.

Faith formation director – St. John Paul II Parish in Olathe is seeking a director of parish faith formation that is passionate about catechesis and the new evangelization. Responsibilities will include forming a robust “Domestic Church First” faith formation program for youth and adults, coordinating sacramental preparation and RCIA, and creating and delivering digital content. JP2 was founded in September 2016 and is rapidly growing.

Send cover letter and resume to: office@JP2KC.org; visit the website at: www.JP2KC.org; or call (913) 747-9636 for more information.

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, roundtrip 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 Custodian/maintenance - Applications are being accepted for a custodial/maintenance position at Hayden Catholic High School. This is a full-time position, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., eligible for benefits.

The maintenance/custodial staff is responsible to maintain all school buildings, grounds and related equipment.

The ideal candidate will possess at least a high school diploma or equivalent and will have prior maintenance/ custodial experience. Qualified applicants should email a resume to: haydencatholic@haydencatholic.net.

Drivers needed - Medi Coach Transportation is looking for caring and reliable drivers for nonemergency transportation. CDL is not required. Contact Jeff at (913) 825-1921.

Teachers - St. James Academy is seeking several teachers for the 2017-2018 school year. The ideal candidates will be practicing Catholics with a passion for evangelization and discipleship who are licensed and experienced in their content areas. Current openings include English, math and Spanish teachers, as well as a campus minister. Interested candidates should apply to the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas at: www.archkckcs.org.

Career opportunities - Catholic Charities of Kansas CitySt. Joseph is offering rewarding career opportunities to individuals interested in working in their finance department. There are two full-time positions: director of finance and senior accountant. To learn more about these opportunities, visit our website at: www.catholiccharities-kcsj. org or forward your resume to: hr@ccharities.com.

Drivers - Assisted Transportation is now hiring caring and reliable drivers to transport K-12 students to and from school and other activities in company minivans. Positions are now available in Olathe, Overland Park and Kansas City, Kansas. Competitive wages and flexible schedules. CDL not required. Retirees encouraged to apply. Call (913) 262-3100 or apply online at: AssistedTransportation.com. EEO.

Commercial construction accounting/bookkeeper – We need a person who can leap tall buildings with a single bound! Must be faster than a plane and be very accurate. Our well-established company needs a “company-minded person” with great experience who can begin the New Year with us. We use Peachtree Accounting for our midsize (4-6m per year) company.

Must be adaptable to our way of doing business, but bring some new ideas and solutions. Proficiency in Excel, knowledge of Expesite Client software a bonus.

Must be able to produce monthly financials and monthly project cost reports and work within clients’ programs for invoicing and project closeout. Salary based on experience and abilities. Must have 7-10 years construction accounting experience. ALL others NEED NOT APPLY!!

Send an email to: GDAccountant87@yahoo.com.

Child care providers - Prince of Peace Early Ed Center, Olathe, has openings for part time (M/W/F, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. — Aug.-May) and full time (M-F, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. — year-round starting May) employment working with 4-year-olds. Competitive wages and benefits package are offered to candidates who have at least one year experience in this or a related field. College degree is preferred but not required. Staff member will be responsible for planning and implementing weekly lesson plans; working one-on-one in small and large groups to prepare students for kindergarten through a variety of activities including academic skills; evaluate students twice a year and meet with parents twice a year; maintain an inviting, creative classroom and caring, loving environment; teach Bible stories, basic Catholic prayers and ideals. Also, full-time opening for school age care provider during summer. One-year experience required in a licensed center and minimum of 18 years old. Must be able to attend field trips and create lesson plans including cooking, science, writing, math, etc. Contact Amanda Khemfaj at (913) 829-2728.

Basketball coach - St. James Academy is seeking a head girls basketball coach for the 2017-2018 school year. The ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic with a passion for evangelization and discipleship with experience coaching at the high school or college level.

Interested candidates should email resumes and cover letters to the activities and athletic director, Mr. Mark Huppe, at: mhuppe@sjakeepingfaith.org.

Groundskeeping position - $30K. Catholic Cemeteries is seeking an individual for a full-time groundskeeping position, hours Monday through Saturday. This position requires heavy lifting. Must be physically fit and experience operating construction equipment would be a plus.

Must be a fast learner and flexible on hours. Interested individuals should contact Matt Wirtz at (913) 371-4040 or you may email a resume to: svallejo@cathcemks.org.

Social media specialist - Catholic Cemeteries of Northeast Kansas is looking for a permanent part-time position to be filled for the social media management efforts of this important ministry. The right person for this position will work from home 10-15 hours a week and be well versed in the implementation of most social media platforms currently available. Initial development and monitoring priorities will include Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram, etc. The ability to stay abreast of social media platforms as they emerge and solid communication skills with the ability to interface with all department heads within our organization (weekly if needed and when requested) is a must. Biweekly meetings at our offices may be needed initially to jumpstart our efforts and in the training of staff to utilize and perfect the use of these important communication tools.

Please send resume to : dvanthullenar@cathcemks.org.

SERVICES 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.

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

Tree Trimming Licensed and insured Free estimates/10 years experience Call Tony at (913) 620-6063 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.

Rodman Lawn Care Lawn mowing, aeration, verticutting.

Hedge trimming, mulch, leaf removal.

Fully insured and free estimates.

John Rodman (913) 548-3002 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.

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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.

Agua Fina Irrigation and Landscape The one-stop location for your project!

Landscape and irrigation design, Installation and maintenance.

Cleanup and grading services It’s time to repair your lawn. 20% discount on lawn renovations with mention of this ad.

Visit the website at: www.goaguafina.com Call (913) 530-7260 or (913) 530-5661

HOME IMPROVEMENT 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 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 Swalms organizing - downsizing - cleanout service – Reduce clutter – Any space organized. Shelving built onsite. Items hauled for recycling and donations. 20 years exp.; insured. Call Tillar at (913) 375-9115. WWW.SWALMS ORGANIZING.COM. 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.

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 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.

Handyman/Remodeler - Quality service with references.

Kitchens, baths, tile, painting, garage doors and openers, decks and wood rot repair. Call Jeff at (913) 915-4738.

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.

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.

HARCO Exteriors LLC Your Kansas City fencing specialists Family owned and operated (913) 815-4817 www.harcoexteriorsllc.com NELSON CREATIONS L.L.C. Home remodeling, design/build, kitchens, baths, all interior and exterior work. Family owned and operated; over 25 years experience. Licensed and insured; commercial and residential. Kirk and Diane Nelson.

(913) 927-5240; nelsport@everestkc.net 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) 5791835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.

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.

>> Classifieds continue on page 13

2/7/17 4:10 PM

FEBRUARY 10, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CALENDAR ‘DEFENSE OF THE FAITH IN OUR TIMES’ St. James Academy 24505 Prairie Star Pkwy., Lenexa Feb. 10 at 7 p.m.

A lecture titled “The challenges to the defense of the faith in our times” will be given

by Cardinal Raymond Burke. No reservations are necessary. The lecture is sponsored by the Order of Malta, an international lay religious order of the Catholic Church.

WHITE MASS FOR HEALING PROFESSIONS Church of the Nativity 3800 W. 119th St., Leawood Feb. 11 at 10:30 a.m.

All health care professionals are invited to Mass celebrated by Cardinal Raymond Burke.

DADDY-DAUGHTER DANCE ELM Community Building 228 Main St., Carbondale Feb. 11 from 6 - 8 p.m.

There will be music, refreshments, a party favor and a photo booth. Dress up and have a special time with Dad or Granddad. Reservations are due by Feb. 4. Call Lois Shuck at (785) 665-7893; text Mary Burgett at (785) 633-9330; or send an email to: mev56b87@ gmail.com. Proceeds benefit the building fund of St. Patrick Church in Scranton.

VALENTINE’S DANCE St. Anthony Parish (hall) 615 N. 7th St., Kansas City, Kansas Feb. 11 from 6 - 10:30 p.m.

The dance will be hosted by the German-American Edelweiss Society. The cost is: $20 for adults; $10 for kids ages 12 - 20; $5 for kids ages 6 - 11; and free for kids under the age of 5. The cost of admission includes dinner, drinks and dancing. There will be raffle tickets, which can purchased at the door. For more information, call Patty Orth at (913) 371-2468.

ST. MARY CHURCH, HARTFORD BEEF AND NOODLE DINNER Neosho Rapids Grade School Multipurpose room, Neosho Rapids Feb. 12 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Homemade beef and noodles, mashed potatoes, vegetable, salad, dessert and drink.

The cost is: $8 for adults; $4 for children under 10. There will be drawings for prizes.

Tickets available at the door.

SOUP LUNCHEON Most Pure Heart of Mary 3601 S.W. 17th St., Topeka Feb. 12 from 1 - 3 p.m.

The Christian Widow and Widowers Organization will host the soup luncheon. There is no cost to attend. For more information, call (785) 233-7350.

CONCERT Sanctuary of Hope 2601 Ridge Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Feb. 12 from 2 - 3 p.m.

The talented singer/pianist Rejean will be performing her many and diverse styles of music at Sanctuary of Hope’s 20th musical concert. A freewill offering is suggested. For more information, call (913) 321-4673 or go to the website at: www.sanctuaryofhope. org.

ROSARY RALLY IN HONOR OF OUR LADY OF FATIMA St. Joseph Parish 11311 Johnson Dr., Shawnee Feb. 12 from 3 - 4:15 p.m.

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

Leaven 02-10-17.indd 13

OPEN HOUSE Padre Pio Academy 5901 Flint, Shawnee Feb. 12 from 3 - 5 p.m.

Padre Pio Academy, which offers a Catholic classical curriculum, is hosting an open house for those interested in learning what makes it the right choice for their children.

For more information and directions, visit the website at: www.padrepioacademy.org or call the school at (913) 268-3155.

PARISH MISSION Christ the King Parish 3024 N. 53rd St., Kansas City, Kansas Feb. 13 - 15 at 7 p.m.

“Spiritual Freedom” will be the theme of this parish mission. The mission will be presented by Father Dave Pivonka, TOR, a nationally known author and speaker. The presentations will be at 7 p.m. each evening. For more information, call Kimm White at (913) 287-8823.

RETROUVAILLE Savior Pastoral Center 12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kansas Feb. 17 - 19

Retrouvaille is a marriage program dedicated to helping couples grow closer and develop a stronger bond. The program is designed to help couples bridge the distance that has grown between them. For more information about this program for couples, contact the registration team at (800) 470-2230 or visit the website at: www.helpourmarriage.com.

be: “Navigating Change on the Heels of Loss.”

For more information, call (913) 649-2026.

BISHOP WARD ALUMNI GATHERING O’Neill’s Restaurant 9417 Mission Rd., Leawood Feb. 23 at 6 p.m.

Join fellow Cyclones for food, fellowship and fun. There is no cost to attend, and food will be provided. Drinks will need to be purchased. For more information or to RSVP, call Greg Duggins at (913) 371-6901 or send an email to: gduggins@wardhigh.org.

RECOVERY RETREAT Marillac Center 4200 S. 4th St., Leavenworth Feb. 24 at 7 p.m. — Feb. 27 at 11:30 a.m.

This retreat, based on the 12-step process, will provide an excellent opportunity to reflect on life and relationships. Donations for this retreat are $50 for commuters (includes lunch) and $150 for overnight guests (includes four meals). For more information and to register, call (913) 785-6552; send an email to: retreats@scls.org; or visit the website at: www.marillaccenter.org.

WINTER PLAY St. James Academy 24505 Prairie Star Pkwy., Lenexa Feb. 24 and Feb. 25 at 7 p.m.

St. James Academy performing arts department will present “The Trojan Woman,” an adaptation of “The Trojan Women” by Euripides. Tickets can be purchased online at: www.sjakeepingfaith.org.

NEW HOPE FOR DEPRESSION Sophia Spirituality Center 751 S. 8th St., Atchison Feb. 25 from 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR SPECIAL-NEEDS CHILDREN St. Michael the Archangel Parish St. Raphael Room 14251 Nall Ave., Leawood Feb. 23 from 7 - 8:30 p.m.

Meet with financial advisers who will explain the Able Act and share their guidance on how to establish a special-needs trust.

For further information or if you have questions, call Tom Racunas, lead consultant of the archdiocesan special-needs ministry, at (913) 647-3055 or send an email to: tracunas @archkck.org.

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

There will be a Mass with prayers for healing, sponsored by archdiocesan charismatic prayer groups. For more information, call (913) 649-2026.

WINTER FORMAL Church of the Ascension Parish (hall) 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park Feb. 18 from 6 - 10 p.m.

The dance is sponsored by the Knights of Columbus Assembly 2260. The cost for tickets is $30 per person and includes a prime rib dinner and drinks. Dance music will be provided by “Oldies 95 DJ.” Dress is formal and advance ticket purchase is required.

Tickets may be purchased at the website: www.kofc2260.org; or by calling Richard Witthar at (913) 897-7227 or Tom Maillard at (913) 558-8120.

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

There will be a memorial liturgy for deceased loved ones followed by a grief support meeting in the Father Burak Room. The topic will

Hear about the value of deepening spiritual practices to find new hope and discover one’s own path to the God of grace and compassion. For more information or to register, call (913) 360-6173 or go to the website at: www.sophiaspiritualitycenter.org.

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>> Continued from page 12

CAREGIVING Looking for high quality home care? - Whether you’re looking to introduce care for your family or simply looking to improve your current home care quality, we can help. Our unique approach to home care has earned us a 99% client satisfaction rating among the 1,000-plus families we have assisted. We are family-owned, with offices in Lenexa and Lawrence. Call Benefits of Home - Senior Care, Lenexa: (913) 422-1591 or Lawrence: (785) 727-1816 or www.benefitsofhome.com.

Senior care and helper - I am a registered nurse with a master’s degree in nursing and a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Virginia and the University of Mary. I am also a husband and father of two young children. I enjoy working with, learning from and exchanging stories with the senior population and America’s Greatest Generation. This may include, but not be limited to, nursing care, grocery shopping, yard work, medical appointments, companionship and helping around the home. Parishioner of Holy Trinity Parish. Call Matt at (913) 721-6543 to set up a no-obligation meeting to see if we are a good fit for one another.

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.

FOR SALE 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) 327-5557.

For sale - Young Chang grand piano, ebony polish finish with automatic player. Model PG-208, length 6’10” in excellent condition. $8000. Call (913) 634-8593.

For sale - Maintenance free home. Backs up to Ascension Catholic Church. Two bedroom, 2.5 bath, study, open floor plan. Great for entertaining. Call for appointment. (913) 669-8178.

FOR RENT House for rent - Long Street in Shawnee, close to St. Joseph Church. One entry-level bedroom, one large loft bedroom. Kitchen with dishwasher, basement garage with opener. House is clean and well taken care of.

Large yard, quiet, secure neighborhood. No smoking/ no pets. Available Feb. 1. Call (913) 238-2470. Serious interest only. Shawnee Sacred Heart member/owner.

House for rent - Home for rent near downtown Lawrence. 3 bedroom, 1.5 bathroom plus bonus attic room.

Fenced yard and carport. Great family home. Available March 1st. Serious interest only. St. John the Evangelist member/owner. Call Sarah at (913) 219-5487.

GERMAN FASCHING MARDI GRAS Sacred Heart Parish (hall) 312 N.E. Freeman Ave., Topeka Feb. 25 at 4 p.m.

The evening begins with German Mass and is followed by a German buffet, polka dance, silent auction, drawings for $1000 and three handmade quilts. A cash bar will be available. Advance tickets are $25 per person, or $225 for a table of eight. Tickets will be sold until Feb. 19 and can be purchased by calling (785) 232-2863 or (785) 234-3338.

MARDI GRAS St. Benedict Parish (school commons) 201 Division, Atchison Feb. 26 from 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Meals will be served from 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

The cost is: $7 for adults; $4 for kids ages 4 - 10; free for kids ages 3 and under. There will also be live and silent auctions, games, crafts, face painting and prizes. All proceeds help support St. Benedict School.

SAVE THE DATE Hayden High School 401 S.W. Gage Blvd., Topeka April 1 from 5 - 11:30 p.m.

Hayden’s 40th annual PACE Blue & Gold Gala will be April 1 at Hayden Catholic High School. For sponsorship, table or general information, call Shannon Peavler at (785) 272-2150 or send an email to: peavlers@ haydencatholic.net.

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 - I’m Mark Edmondson, a local parishioner at Holy Trinity, and I buy and sell houses in any condition. If you have a house “situation,” call me. I might have a solution for you. (913) 980-4905.

Wanted to buy - Antique/vintage jewelry, lighters, fountain pens, post card collections, paintings/prints, pottery, sterling, china dinnerware.

Renee Maderak, (913) 631-7179.

St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee

ROOMMATE Roommate wanted - Female seeking female roommate in Overland Park home. $400 per month plus one-third of the utilities. Furnished three-bedroom home. Six minutes from Oak Park Mall. No pets. Call (913) 599-5574.

Wagner’s Mud-Jacking Co.

Specializing in Foundation Repairs Mud-jacking and Waterproofing.

Serving Lawrence, Topeka and surrounding areas.

Topeka (785) 233-3447 Lawrence (785) 749-1696 In business since 1963 www.foundationrepairks.com

2/7/17 4:10 PM

FEBRUARY 10, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY SIXTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Feb. 12 SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Sir 15: 15-20 Ps 119: 1-2, 4-5, 17-18, 33-34 1 Cor 2: 6-10 Mt 5: 17-37 Feb. 13 Monday Gn 4: 1-15, 25 Ps 50: 1, 8, 16bc-17, 20-21 Mk 8: 11-13 Feb. 14 Cyril, monk, and Methodius, bishop Gn 6: 5-8; 7: 1-5, 10 Ps 129: 1a, 2, 3ac-4 Mk 8: 14-21 Feb. 15 Wednesday Gn 8: 6-13, 20-22 Ps 166: 12-15, 18-19 Mk 8: 22-26 Feb. 16 Thursday Gn 9: 1-13 Ps 102: 16-18, 19-23, 29 Mk 8: 27-33 Feb. 17 Seven Holy Founders of the Servite Order Gn 11: 1-9 Ps 33: 10-15 Mk 8:34–9:1 Feb. 18 Saturday Heb 11: 1-7 Ps 145: 2-5, 10-11 Mk 9: 2-13

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Y

Gettin’ by with a lot of help from my friends

ou’d think that by now I’d have learned my lesson.

But, no. It’s like there is an alternate meaning to the academic letters that you sometimes see after my name: STL. Although formally those letters stand for Licentiate of Sacred Theology, I believe they actually mean: Slow To Learn.

Over the past few weeks, my mom has gone into the hospital twice. Since I need them so often, I keep all of her cards for insurance, Medicare and ID in a small black wallet in a compartment in my car.

That way, they’re always ready to be presented to the medical people who need copies of them. I’m obsessive about always returning that wallet to its special compartment . . . except for last week. I put the wallet in my coat pocket in case the cards were needed. Later, I promptly neglected to return the wallet to its usual spot.

Well, sure enough, a couple of days ago, I needed those cards.

When I went to grab that wallet from the car, my

B

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.

hand hit empty space. I remembered then that I’d left the wallet in my coat pocket. I searched every pocket: nothing. I even went through the pockets of coats that I knew I hadn’t worn.

Next, I plowed through my backpack, hoping I’d put the wallet there. I found a lot of forgotten treasures, but no wallet.

Excavating the kitchen table followed, with the same disappointing results.

On the verge of panic, I remembered my mom’s

buddy, Tony. We know him as St. Anthony of Padua, but Mom says she calls on him so much that he’s Tony to her. I did the traditional ditty: “Tony, Tony, turn around. Something’s lost that must be found.”

I reassured him that I wasn’t asking for myself, but for his good friend, my mom!

Since the good saint seemed to be taking his sweet time, I got in my car and headed to visit Mom in the hospital.

I pulled into a parking spot and, for some reason, reached down to the floor mat. My hand brushed against something between the seat and the console.

Yup, there was the “lost” wallet. In case you’re wondering, I’m still

thanking Tony for his incredible help.

Maybe it’s because I was an only child and usually had to figure out things on my own, but I keep forgetting a basic lesson: There’s lots of help out there.

I’m reminded of this story about a kayaker named Mark Ashton-Smith, a 33-year-old lecturer at Cambridge University. In southern England off the Isle of Wight, he capsized in treacherous waters.

Clinging to his craft and reaching for his cellphone, his first inclination was to call his dad.

It didn’t matter that his father, Alan PimmSmith, was training British troops in Dubai, some 3,500 miles away.

Without delay, the father relayed his son’s mayday to the Coast Guard installation nearest to his son’s location.

It turned out to be less than a mile away. Within 12 minutes, a helicopter rescued the grateful son.

In commenting on this story, the Rev. Greg Asimakoupoulos said: “Like this kayaker, when we are in peril, our first impulse should be to call Our Father, the one we

trust to help us.” (Adapted from “More Perfect Illustrations for Every Topic and Occasion, edited by Craig Brian Larson and Drew Zahn.)

Duh. When I lost that wallet, I relied only on myself to find it. I should have sought God’s help first, through the intercession of St. Anthony. It’s a lesson that I’m slowly, but finally, learning.

And when I’m at a loss to find time to be with my mom, St. Anthony has found some incredible, unofficial saints to help out: most notably, Maxine “the Cake Lady” from my parish and Anita from The Leaven staff. Of course, I can’t forget all of the other “saints” who have popped in to visit, are praying for Mom’s recovery or are the hands-on hospital staff. I’m truly blessed . . . and not alone.

Unfortunately, with all the extra running around these past few weeks, I’m afraid that I’m losing my mind.

But that’s not St. Anthony’s problem. . . .

That’s a job for good St. Dymphna!

Jesus goes beyond letter of the law to fulfill it

ecause of their deep respect for the Torah, the rabbis in ancient times formulated additional regulations to protect the various individual points of the Mosaic Law, to ensure that they would not be inadvertently violated.

For example, the law prohibits stewing a kid goat in its mother’s milk.

(Ex 23:19b) The rabbis extended that prohibition to rule out eating any meat with any dairy products. This extension of the law is known as a “fence” around the law.

In Sunday’s Gospel reading, Mt 5:17-37, Jesus exhibits a similar respect for the Torah.

He declares: “Not the smallest letter or the smallest part of a letter will pass from the law,

POPE FRANCIS

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.

until all things have taken place. Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments and

Jesus did not come into the world seeking popularity but, rather, to be close to those in need, Pope Francis said. The large crowds that would gather around Jesus wherever he went “had their eyes fixed on him and he had his eyes fixed on the people,” the pope

Leaven 02-10-17.indd 14

14

teaches others to do so will be called least in the kingdom of heaven.

But whoever obeys and teaches these commandments will be called greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”

Respect for the Torah had led the rabbis to construct fences around the law. Similar respect for the Torah led Jesus to examine the commandments,

to arrive at the heart of the commandment and determine the reason for that commandment.

Understanding that, Jesus could elaborate on the commandment and draw it out to its logical conclusion.

For example, in examining the commandment against murder, “You shall not kill,” Jesus could determine that its underlying message opposed violence against persons. Accordingly, Jesus extended the commandment to prohibit anger and personal insults: “Whoever is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; and whoever says to his brother, ‘Raqa,’ will be answerable to the Sanhedrin; and whoever says, ‘You fool,’ will be liable to fiery Gehenna.”

said Jan. 31 during Mass in the chapel of Domus Sanctae Marthae. “This is the peculiarity of Jesus’ gaze: Jesus does not depersonalize the people; he looks at each one” individually, he said.

The pope reflected on the day’s Gospel reading from St. Mark, which recalled the great crowds that would follow Jesus seek-

Notice that, even though Jesus does not take a legalistic approach to the commandment, he is still very demanding. He does not let us off the hook.

In extending the various commandments, Jesus is bringing out their deeper meaning. In that way, he is bringing them to fulfillment.

Jesus is living up to his promise made in the Gospel reading: “Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets. I have come not to abolish but to fulfill.”

Jesus seeks to fulfill the law by understanding its spirit. By going beyond the letter of the law and arriving at its spirit, he gives it life.

“For the letter brings death, but the Spirit gives life” (2 Cor 3:6).

ing healing. Jesus, he noted, “is always in the midst of the people. He is not with guards who escort him so that the people will not touch him. No, no! He remained there and the people pressed in.”

— CNS

2/7/17 4:10 PM

FEBRUARY 10, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY

B

15

Life’s instruction manuals are where you find them

abies don’t come with instruction manuals.

This is true — unless the baby is the first child of a young couple going away for the first time leaving their baby in the care of Grammy and Papa.

We were given three pages of typed instructions, diaper bag, duffel bag, food bag, milk bag and toys for a year’s worth of growth development for the weekend we were to babysit.

We could see that the young parents were very serious about the importance of staying on the baby’s schedule when we were entrusted with baby’s care. Nor

SIMPLY STEWARDSHIP

LESLE KNOP Lesle Knop is the executive director of the archdiocesan office of stewardship and development. You can email her at: lknop@archkck.org.

could we forget with the text messages (dozens!)

that we received over the next two days: “Is he napping?”

If only life was like this. We could be prepared in advance for whatever lies ahead and guided every step of the way by mentors and concerned friends.

Recently, Archbishop

Joseph F. Naumann provided his Administrative Team with a copy of a new collection of essays edited by Erika Bachiochi called “Women, Sex and the Church: A Case for Catholic Teaching.”

One of the reviewers of this text said that these essays “should be required reading for every son, brother, fiance, husband, father, seminarian and priest.”

I would agree, adding that it should be required reading for every daughter, sister, brideto-be, wife, mother and any woman called to the religious life. The writers of these essays thoughtfully present their observations of the human condition from

conception to natural death.

Another instruction manual Catholics turn to often is the holy Bible which provides guidelines for husbands and wives in the family that God ordains. In St. Paul’s Letter to the Colossians, for example, it says: “Bearing with one another and forgiving one another, if one has a grievance against another; as the Lord has forgiven you, so must you also do” (3:13).

This month, an Archbishop’s Call to Share funded ministry, the office of marriage and family life, is presenting The Joyful Marriage Project with instructions to build your own

“dream home.”

A joyful marriage is available if we invest a little bit of time and energy into making (and keeping) it strong.

Please see the archdiocesan website at: www. archkck.org for more information about these learning opportunities.

Your generous gifts to the Archbishop’s Call to Share are appreciated by those who benefit from more than 42 funded ministries. Thank you.

As to life’s little instruction manuals, here is another good rule that Christian stewards try to live by: It is more blessed to give than to receive.

Art event is perfect showcase for Catholic education

“O

Angel of God, my

guardian dear.”

So begins the familiar prayer that many of us have prayed since we were children. We ask our guardian angels to watch over us and to be always at our side, especially in times of crisis.

Here at the Catholic Education Foundation, we have a group of generous and caring young professionals (ages 21 to 40s) — the CEF “Futures” — who are committed to lending a hand to our students’ guardian angels by promoting the mission of CEF. The Futures host

CEF CENTERED

BILL KIRK Bill Kirk is the executive director of the Catholic Education Foundation.

You can reach him at (913) 6470383 or send an email to him at: bkirk@archkck.org.

events each year to fund emergency “Guardian

Concrete Work

Angel” scholarships that help families facing a short-term crisis (such as a job loss, serious illness or death in the family) to afford to continue to send their child to a CEF school.

On Feb. 23, the Futures will host their fifth annual Art Event at the

Boulevard Brewery. It will feature submissions by aspiring artists from CEF schools and local professional artists — all available for purchase, with the proceeds benefiting the CEF Guardian Angel Scholarship Fund.

Thanks to the generosity of so many sponsors and supporters, tickets for this year’s art event sold out long ago.

So as I tell you about the event, I’m not trying to promote attendance.

Rather, I’d like to reflect a little bit about how fitting it is that the Futures support CEF each year by celebrating works of art.

It strikes me that this event perfectly embodies what is so special about the education

that Catholic schools provide our children. The Catholic education of our children consists of preparing them both for what they are called to do here on earth and for their ultimate goal: to be with God in heaven.

The experience of beauty — especially creating and enjoying works of art — prepares us to be with God, the one who is truth and beauty.

The works of our students and the professional artists that will be exhibited at the event (and which can be viewed online at: bit. ly/CEFArt) celebrate the beauty of life, the richness of our faith and the hopefulness and

longing we all have for the heavenly banquet.

And so, an art event is a perfect way to showcase what is unique and special about Catholic education, and to ensure that it is available to all.

The CEF Futures and those who support them assist our children’s guardian angels by lending a hand to those CEF students and families experiencing a serious crisis. I hope you’ll help as well.

Take a look at our website (www.cefks. org), read about some of the families our Futures have helped and please remember our CEF children and their families in your charity and in your prayers.

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LOCAL NEWS

FEBRUARY 10, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

16

THE ‘MULTI-MAN’

Holy Cross School custodian does it all — with a smile

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

O

V E R L A N D PARK — Possibly the most popular person at Holy Cross here is Armando

School Ramirez.

Ramirez isn’t a student, a teacher or an administrator.

He’s the custodian — a key player in not only making the school pleasant and functional, but also in fostering its esprit de corps.

So what does he do?

“What doesn’t Armando do?” asked Michael Long, art teacher. “He does everything.

Really, he does anything and everything not related to teaching — above and beyond.

And the kids are crazy about Armando. They absolutely love him.”

Principal Allison Carney praised Ramirez for his devotion, skills, work ethic and cheerful demeanor.

“He’s the multitask man,” said Carney.

Ramirez cleans and waxes the floors, shovels snow, assembles and fixes furniture, does basic plumbing and electrical repair, sets up and breaks down seating and tables for games and twice-weekly Masses, fills potholes, cleans bathrooms, cleans classrooms, changes light fixtures — the list could go on and on.

“Above and beyond” includes helping serve and clean up after lunch, coming in on weekends to make the gym ready after a game, and occasionally serving as translator to aid parents who can only speak Spanish.

Ramirez’s hours are 7 or 7:30 a.m. until “finished” p.m., Monday through Friday, and some weekends as necessary.

“That’s no kidding,” said Long. “I think he likes working in the evening when everyone is gone and it’s mellow.”

His wife Araceli, who cleans Holy Cross Church, helps him in the afternoons and evenings. Occasionally, he’s helped by one of his three sons, Overland.

Now an eighth-grader at Holy Cross, Overland was named for Overland Park — out of his parents’ love for their new city and new country.

It wasn’t easy getting here.

Ramirez was born and raised in the town of Santa María del Río in the Mexican state of San Luis Potosi.

After high school graduation in 1986, he came north to find work.

He worked both in Texas

Leaven 02-10-17.indd 16

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE BOLLIG

Being a friend to all is not in his job description, but it is one of the important roles Armando Ramirez fulfills at Holy Cross School in Overland Park. Administrators and teachers say he is a positive, friendly presence to everyone he meets. Here, he visits and jokes with the students as he takes a break in his lunchtime responsibilities. and Minnesota. On a regular documents to enter and stay to be away from his family, he comforting to them.” trip back to Mexico, he passed in the United States would said, especially during birthSusan Gittinger, a fourthdays and when one of the grade teacher at Holy Cross, through the Kansas City area. take years, but he was patient.

But then, the 9/11 terrorist boys was sick.

He liked it: The people were said Ramirez had a big impact Before the family was re- on her family. friendly, and there were so attacks extended the process. united, he was hired part time In the end, it took 18 years to many big trees!

“Armando is near and dear During one trip, he met get Araceli and their three in 2004 by Holy Cross School. to our hearts,” said Gittinger. his future wife, and they later sons to Kansas. During that He became a parishioner, and “He was instrumental in setmarried. Getting her the right time, it was difficult for him the parish helped him navi- ting the direction of my three gate the immigration process. daughters’ lives.”

Finally, his family arrived in When her daughters were 2013. Ramirez became the Holy Cross students, they “adchief custodian (the only cus- opted” Ramirez, and Ramirez todian, really) by last August. adopted them.

“He takes the initiative,” “When they were really said Carney. “If he goes into a little, they’d hear the trash cart classroom and notices some- coming down the hallway and thing needs cleaning, he’ll do they’d run out and jump on it. If he sees wobbly desks, he the front, and he’d give them doesn’t wait for a teacher to rides down the hall,” said Gitcall him; he’ll just fix it. He’s tinger. “He’d play soccer and always looking for things to basketball with our youngest make better. He’s proactive in daughter.” his work.”

Today, her daughters are He does things with a smile grown. One works for the and a happy demeanor. It rubs Central American Resource off.

Center in Washington, D.C., “He’s so happy. The kids and another is a program love him,” said Carney. “Evdirector for Amigos de las eryone calls him Armando Américas in Houston. The — they don’t call him Mr. third is a teacher at Our Lady Ramirez. We tried to get the of Unity School in Kansas younger kids to call him Mr. City, Kansas.

Ramirez, but he’s so humble, One of the great things he said, ‘Just call me Arman- about a Catholic school is do.’” how every adult in the build“When the kids see him ing plays a role in forming the in the hall, they try to speak children’s faith. to him in Spanish, because “In [Ramirez], they have an they’re learning basic Span- example of the importance of ish,” she continued. “He pats Catholic social teaching, the them on the head and asks dignity of the human person them if they’re enjoying their and the dignity of work,” said lunch or had fun at recess. Gittinger. “His work ethic is LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE BOLLIG He’ll talk to some of our unbelievable, [as is] the joyful Since he did not have the opportunity to attend a Catholic school where he Spanish-speaking students spirit in which he does it.” grew up, Ramirez loves working in an environment where he can pray and in Spanish, and that’s really see all sorts of Christian symbols.

2/7/17 4:11 PM