THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 37, NO. 26 | FEBRUARY 12, 2016
H CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK SPECIAL
Catholic school teachers and principals are known for their dedication and sacrifice, but they aren’t alone. Staff members like Mary Lou Reyes, who has served as cafeteria director for 41 years at Holy Name School in Kansas City, Kansas, also go above and beyond. She has become a fixture of the community and the parish, literally feeding generations of Holy Name families. But she has not only served food, but also has dried tears and kept an eye out for the well-being of the students.
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ANSAS C I T Y, Kan. — After 41 years as cafeteria director at Holy N a m e School here, Mary Lou Reyes is more than a little protective of her turf. Early one morning many years ago, she arrived at the school to see shattered glass on the floor. Someone had broken in. So Reyes did what any sleuthing lunch lady would do when all alone in a dark building early in the morning. She grabbed a big kitchen knife and walked the school halls, investigating. “Of course, in hindsight, she shouldn’t have done that,” said Lori Petesch, a seventh- and eighthgrade teacher who has worked at Holy Name for 30 years. “But she knew the students would be showing up any time. “And she had to make sure the school was safe.” That’s how much Mary Lou Reyes loves this school.
LUNCH LADY SERVES UP A DAILY HELPING OF LOVE STORY AND PHOTOS BY JOE BOLLIG
A legend Reyes is legendary at Holy Name, woven into the fabric of this blue-collar community. She grew up in the Argentine neighborhood near here and is a parishioner at Holy Name Church.
Her husband Louis was a custodian at the school for 15 years and still volunteers to help her in the mornings. They raised four children and sent them to Holy Name. “She’s a huge part of the community,” said Amanda Vega-Mavec, principal of Holy Name. “She knows so many of the children because she
knows their parents and grandparents. They know she’s part of the community.” “She just doesn’t come in, do her job and leave,” the principal continued. “She’s aware of what they’re going through, not just what’s on their plate.” For many of the students, Reyes is more than the lunch lady. Sometimes, a child who is no relation at all will call her “Aunt Mary Lou” or “Grandma.” “A lot of times, I’ll see [the students] when I’m out shopping, and they’ll run up to me saying ‘Mary Lou, Mary Lou!’ and want a hug,” she said. “There’s a little girl who tells me every morning, ‘Mary Lou, I like your food.’ And I say ‘Thank you, honey.’ It shows by her tray,” she continued. “Usually when kids have a clean tray, I’ll tell them that they’ve done a good job. It makes me happy.”
A tight ship Reyes started here as a cafeteria volunteer until the serving director quit in the middle of the school year. >> See “NO ONE” on page 4
FEBRUARY 12, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG
ARCHBISHOP
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Authentic love always encourages loved one toward Christ
s Catholics, we believe every human being has been created in the divine image. Moreover, God revealed the great worth he has placed on every human life by Our Lord’s death on Calvary. Each one of us is so valued by God that the Second Person of the Trinity became a human being and died for us. We also believe that because of the original sin of our first parents, our humanity has been fractured in such a way that we are drawn to desire pleasures, experiences, things and relationships that are inconsistent with our God-given dignity. Like our first parents, we often rebel against God’s will for us. Sometimes, we perceive his commandments as restricting us from what we mistakenly believe will make us happy, rather than protecting us from that which can harm us and isolate us from experiencing God’s love. Each one of us needs Jesus. We need a redeemer who can rescue us from our sin, our disobedience, and make it possible for us to experience God’s merciful love. The inclinations that entice us to desire what is evil are consequences of our fractured human condition. We choose sin because our disordered inclinations make us vulnerable to perceive what is bad as good, what is actually disfigured as attractive. This is particularly evident in our sexuality, the great gift God gave to humanity that allows us to be co-creators with him of new human life. Disordered human
LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN
LISTEN to this article online at: www.theleaven.org. sexuality is why pornography, sex trafficking, prostitution, fornication, cohabitation, lust, homosexual activity and marital infidelity are so prevalent. The Catholic Church is criticized by some for what they consider an overemphasis on sexual sins. Some even ask the question: Does God really care if someone views pornography or two individuals, who are not married but care for each other, engage in sexual intercourse? The answer is: “Yes!” Why? Our sexual sins have significant ramifications on us personally and, perhaps more importantly, upon the life of the family. Sexual immorality impairs our ability to love others authentically. No matter if it is consensual between adults or not, the bonding that takes place during sexual intimacy leaves emotional scars when those relationships end. As St. John Paul taught in his theology of the body, in sexual intimacy we com-
municate through the language of our bodies a meaning that we cannot ignore or redefine. Sexual sins often weaken and, in some cases, destroy marriages — the foundation of family life. Wives and husbands are wounded when marriages fail, and children are profoundly affected by divorce. Finally, sexual sins can result in an unplanned pregnancy, creating a climate causing emotional panic that, in turn, is the context for a decision to abort an innocent, unborn child. Living a chaste life is challenging for all of us, no matter our socioeconomic status, our age and our state of life. This is uniquely true for individuals who experience same-sex attraction. The church calls Catholics to show the utmost respect for the God-given dignity of all individuals, including those experiencing same-sex attractions. Our identity is not determined by whether we experience heterosexual or homosexual attractions, but in the truth that we are beloved children of God. We all have a need for friendship. It is in the community of the church that we should find the opportunity, not only to have our spiritual — but also our emotional
needs — met. It is in the community of the church that we should not only experience God’s love for us, but also find the opportunity for warm friendships and the chaste love of others. One of the most thoughtful treatments of the experience of those with same-sex attraction and the church’s call to the virtue of chastity is a 60-minute documentary entitled: “Desire of the Everlasting Hills.” This film chronicles the experience of three individuals who experienced same-sex attraction and who discover from their lived experience that, ultimately, peace and happiness can only be found in their relationship with God and following his will, which in part requires striving to live the virtue of chastity. You can view this film by Googling “Desire of the Everlasting Hills” or going to the Courage apostolate website. Courage is a Catholic ministry that supports men and women with same-sex attraction who are striving to live the virtue of chastity. Courage has a sister ministry called Encourage that assists parents and other family members in supporting a loved one with same-sex attraction. If you are interested in contacting the local chapter of Courage or Encourage, please call the Courage Helpline at (913) 428-9893 or go to the website at: www. archkck.org/couragekc. Authentic love has no labels. It always seeks the good of the other above our own wants and desires. True love — whether that of a married couple or of family or of friends — always seeks to bring the person we love
CALENDAR
ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN
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Rite of Election — St. Matthew, Topeka
Feb. 14 Installation of Father Ric Halvorson — Holy Spirit, Overland Park
Feb. 22 High school counselors meeting — Savior Pastoral Center
Rite of Election — Holy Angels, Basehor
Finance Council meeting — Chancery
Feb. 15 “Shepherd’s Voice” recording — Chancery
Confirmation — St. Matthew, Topeka Feb. 23 Johnson County regional priests meeting — Sacred Heart, Shawnee
Pastoral Council meeting, vespers and dinner — Savior Pastoral Center Feb. 16 Priests Personnel meeting
Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas board meeting — Chancery
Administrative Team meeting
ARCHBISHOP KELEHER
Rite of Election — Holy Trinity, Lenexa
Feb. 13 Confessions — Men Under Construction, Ascension
Feb. 17 Religious Liberty Rally — Capitol in Topeka
Feb. 14 Mass — Federal prison camp
USCCB Communication Committee virtual meeting
Feb. 21 Confessions — Curé of Ars
Dinner with Bishop Ward auction winner
Feb. 27 Confirmation — St. Joseph, Chicago
Feb. 20 White Mass — St. Thomas
closer to God. Real love involves a willingness to get involved in the life of another by getting to know them and, in part, understand the joys as well as the challenges of their life. Authentic love is always characterized by encouraging the one we love along the path of virtue and union with God. For the Christian, Jesus is the example of true love. This week, let us all pray for the grace to live chaste lives in accord with our state of life. Let us ask the Lord to help us recognize where there
is any type of disorder in the living of our sexuality. God’s mercy and grace are available to us through the sacrament of reconciliation. In our families and our parishes, let us encourage each other to seek God’s love above everything else, realizing only God can satisfy the deepest longings of our hearts. At the same time, may our families and parishes also be communities where chaste love and true friendship are fostered and experienced by all.
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FEBRUARY 12, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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Seminarians the stars of SOS event at Union Station By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org
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ANSAS CITY, Mo. — The renovated Union Station here was a resounding success as the new venue for the Support Our Seminarians (SOS) event held Jan. 29 and benefiting seminarians from both the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph. Catholics from both sides of the state line joined in the fun-filled evening to support vocations to the priesthood. For the last two years, the SOS has honored the Virgin Mary in a special way and this year’s event was no exception. The night was dedicated to Our Lady of Kibeho, the title given to Marian apparitions experienced by schoolchildren in southwest Rwanda, Africa. In the apparitions, Our Lady of Kibeho asked for a renewal of praying the chaplet of the seven sorrows, also known as the Servite rosary, which recalls the role Mary plays in mankind’s redemption as she suffers along with Jesus. Guests at the SOS event found handmade Servite rosaries beside their place settings, along with instructions on how to pray the seven sorrows. And as they entered the Union Station ballroom, they were greeted by Cameroon musicians in native costume, playing music typical of Central African festivals. The event began with cocktails and an opportunity to visit a market featuring donated items, including statues of Our Lady and Servite rosaries. In addition, attendees could purchase baked goods made by the Benedictine monks of Conception Abbey in Conception, Missouri. Seminarians were kept busy packaging breads, cookies and the abbey’s famous granola for guests. Dinner was preceded by a somber moment as audience members were told the evening would be dedicated to Wesley McKellar, a local seminarian who passed away on Jan. 25 after a heroic two-year battle with brain cancer KMBC-TV anchor Larry Moore was master of ceremonies, as he has been every year since he and his wife spearheaded the first SOS. This year’s chairs were Bill and Peggy Oades. After dinner, Archbishop F. Joseph Naumann thanked the audience saying, “We can see
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD
Seminarians James Flattery, left, of the Diocese of Davenport, Iowa, and Chris Davis, of the Diocese of Salina, were kept busy all evening selling cookies, breads and granola from the Conception Abbey bakery. how the Lord has blessed our diocese with seminarians — but it’s because of you.” He welcomed Bishop James V. Johnston Jr. from the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph to his first SOS, saying, “There’s no one more grateful than me that Bishop Johnson is here tonight!” He expressed his gratitude for the new bishop, saying, “I don’t think the Holy See could have given us a better leader for St. Joe.” The archbishop talked about the importance of monetary donations, but also emphasized the equal importance of spiritual support through prayer. “Keep those prayers coming,” he told the audience. Bishop Johnston then took
Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799) President: Most Reverend Joseph F. Naumann
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“WE’RE GRATEFUL NOT JUST FOR THE NUMBER, BUT FOR THE QUALITY OF THE MEN.” Bishop James V. Johnston Jr.
the stage and echoed the archbishop’s thanks for support, saying of current seminarians, “We’re grateful not just for the number, but for the quality of the men.” Abbot Gregory J. Polan, of Conception Abbey, followed, reporting that the seminary started the academic year with 108 seminarians. He also discussed how the
Year of Consecrated Life made a positive impact on the young men discerning their vocations, then invited all religious to stand as the audience applauded their dedication and sacrifice. The evening’s highlight — and an emotional moment for the seminarians — was when they crowded the stage to a standing ovation.
Editor Reverend 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
It wasn’t an easy act to follow, but featured speaker Msgr. Stuart Swetland, president of Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, then shared with the audience his own vocation story. “I am an adult convert who was brought up by Lutheran parents,” he said. Msgr. Swetland attended the U.S. Naval Academy, graduating first in his class and winning a Rhodes scholarship. “For all practical purposes, I became someone encased in the secular world,” he said of himself when he first entered Oxford University. There, he became friends with four Catholic graduate students. “They lived their faith day in and day out,” he said. “They knew their faith. So when I challenged them, they could answer.” Over the next three years, the influence of these friends and the witness of their lives led him to the Catholic Church. “By the grace of God, I came into the Catholic Church before I left Oxford,” he said. “My first confession took all day.” Msgr Swetland went on to talk about the importance of evangelization. “I became Catholic because men and women were willing to give witness when it wasn’t popular to give witness,” he said. He called on the audience to support the seminarians, who have the daunting task of going into an indifferent world. “Indifference — today this is the problem,” he said. “The opposite of love is indifference.” “We need this new generation of priests to study harder,” he said, “but mostly, to pray more profoundly.” “[God] is calling you,” he told the gathered seminarians, “to be extraordinary.” The evening concluded with “Fund a Need,” an opportunity for audience members to raise cards in a live-auction atmosphere and pledge money for the support of seminarians. Money raised through the auction and ticket sales will go to help pay seminary expenses for men studying for the priesthood from the archdiocese and from the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph. The proceeds will be divided equally among the two dioceses and Conception Seminary.
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. For change of address, provide old and new address and parish. Subscriptions $21/year. Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.
FEBRUARY 12, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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‘No one would start the day with an empty stomach’ >> Continued from page 1 “[Then-pastor] Father Frank Krische asked me why I hadn’t applied for the job, and I told him I didn’t drive,” said Reyes. So Father Krische offered to drive her to work until she got her license. Learning how to cook for a school and run a kitchen was a different challenge entirely. Reyes learned to cook at the school, using recipes from state-regulated cookbooks. After many years, Reyes knows which recipes her students like best, like her famous taco salad. Unfortunately, not all lunches are that popular. “My kids do not like the new menu regulations,” confided Reyes. “Whole grain bread and all that nasty stuff. Everything has to be whole grain — the snacks, cereal and even the coating on the chicken nuggets. “They’re kind of getting used to it, because they don’t have any choice.” And after four decades on the job, Reyes has what the military calls “command presence.” It is an air of authority, professionalism and integrity that one projects. The sign on the cafeteria freezer says it all: “Two Choices for Lunch . . . 1. Take it. 2. Leave it.” Reyes and her assistant Elizabeth Alaniz run a tight, tidy ship. They cook close to the count, producing little excess food. Leftovers in the trash is money down the drain, and a little school like Holy Name can’t afford it. “Sometimes, I have to holler at the kids — we both do,” said Reyes. “If they’re not behaving at the table, I get after them [and] say, ‘Don’t do that,’ or ‘Get up’ if they lay on the bench.” “With the big kids,” she continued, “I go back there and tell them, ‘Look, your mother doesn’t work here. When your mother starts working here, you can leave the biggest mess you want. I’m not cleaning up after you. You’re old enough to clean up after yourself.’”
Above and beyond Reyes keeps a close eye out on the children, and not just for misbehaving. Since she sees them every day, she knows if something is wrong. “I’ll ask them ‘Are you OK?’ If they want to talk to me, fine,” she said. “If they don’t want to talk to me, that’s up to them. I don’t get real nosy.” One particular student latched onto Mary Lou after witnessing the deaths of both parents in one day. “[The student] was a wreck,” said Petesch. “We always try to find an adult in the building who the kids feel comfortable talking to. This little girl latched onto Mary Lou.” Reyes also notices if students or teachers are going hungry. “I started back in 1986,” said Petesch. “I was fresh out of college and can remember gathering around the
With her long-serving assistant Elizabeth Alaniz, Mary Lou Reyes cooks, cleans, plans, shops and maintains discipline in the Holy Name cafeteria. They used to make their own bread rolls, as well as hot dog and hamburger buns, from scratch. Now, however, it’s more efficient in terms of time and money to buy dough for the rolls and buy the buns made at a commercial bakery.
When she started 41 years ago, Reyes didn’t know how to cook for large numbers of people. Now, she can whip together a big pot of mashed potatoes and gravy in no time at all. kitchen counter the first thing in the morning with the other teachers. Mary Lou would ask us if we needed breakfast. She was always making sure we had eaten.” “She was also like this with the students,” Petesch continued. “If a student came to school but didn’t go through the breakfast line, she’d ask them if they had eaten breakfast. If they hadn’t, she’d take care of them. No one would start the day with an empty stomach, even if the money came out of her own pocket.”
More than a job For Reyes, Holy Name is more than a job. It’s her community, her parish, her
Extra food is food thrown away — and money down the drain. To avoid this, Reyes figures amounts of food close to the count, keeping the margin thin. No one goes hungry, but little is wasted.
friends and her family. There was a time many years ago when the school was struggling. Morale was low and supplies were short. When the teachers arrived in the morning, they would find that Reyes had prepared little CARE packages for them. The packages would have candy bars, staplers, paper and all other sorts of badly needed classroom supplies. During the years her husband was janitor, Reyes would often end her day on her hands and knees, helping him scrub floors and clean bathrooms. “She prided herself on the fact that when visitors toured the school they would always comment on how clean the school was and that the floors
looked like you could eat off of them,” said Petesch. “You could just see the pride she had in our school.” Now, at age 75, she’s just about ready to give up the job. But she’ll never give up the love. She will always be part of Holy Name School. “It’s going to be hard to come back in the fall and not have her in the kitchen,” said Jennifer Starcke, who has taught kindergarten at Holy Name for 20 years. “Before school ends for the summer, she walks around and gives everyone hugs. When she comes back in the fall, she gives everyone hugs. “It’s not going to be the same without her.”
FEBRUARY 12, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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Archdiocese will host special-needs listening session By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org
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ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Father Matthew Nagle knows better than many about the struggles families face with trying to integrate a special-needs child into parish life. His sister Kelly, 25, a member of Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood, has Down syndrome. “When I listen to a lot of these families [with disabled children] and hear about their frustrations and struggles, I certainly empathize with what they’re going through,” said Father Nagle, associate pastor at St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood. Both he and his brother went to Catholic schools, and Father Nagle’s parents wanted the same for Kelly. “She did [attend] for a time, from kindergarten until junior high,” he said. “At that time, my parents decided it was best for her to go [to a Blue Valley] school.” Getting religious education and sacramental preparation was difficult, too. “Religious education was a little bumpy, I think,” said Father Nagle. “My mother talked it over with the parish and worked it out so she could do the religious instruction [for Kelly] at home.” Things are about to get better for special-needs children and adults and families. The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas will host a special archdiocesan-wide listening event regarding parish ministries for individuals with special needs and their families from 6:30-8:30 p.m. on March 8 at the parish center of St. Patrick Church, 1086 N. 94th St. in Kansas City, Kansas. The listening event will focus on four areas: inclusion in the Mass, participation in religious education, involvement in parish life and preparation for the sacraments. “The listening event is being held because there have been requests and inquiries made to the archdiocese for more availability, outreach and accommodation for those with special needs in our parish communities,” said Father Gary Pennings, archdiocesan vicar general. The purpose of the event is to identify concerns, specify needs and discuss possible solutions. Father Pennings is chairman of a six-person task force, recently established by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, that is charged with developing a special-needs outreach ministry.
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Agenda • 6:30-7 p.m. — Vespers in St. Patrick Church • 7-8 p.m. — Listening session in parish center • 8-8:30 p.m. — Refreshments and networking/social time
The archdiocese already has ministries and programs for those who might otherwise face challenges integrating into parish life. Archdiocesan schools use the Special Wings program to serve special-needs students. The archdiocese also has a pastoral office of ministry to the deaf and hard of hearing. From 1971 until the 1990s, the archdiocese also had R.E.A.C.H. (Religious Education and Activities for the Community Handicapped). This program no longer exists. In addition to the listening session, the archdiocese has contracted with Georgetown University’s Center for Applied Research of the Apostolate (CARA) to participate in a national study on the inclusion of persons with special needs into Catholic parishes in the United States. “That’s going out to parishes in February,” said Father Pennings. “[CARA] will issue a separate report with their findings just for our parishes as well. Their target completion date is sometime in May. That will, hopefully, give us an idea of what is currently being provided by parishes. Coupled with the input from the listening sessions, we can craft an appropriate response.” Registration is not required, but participants are requested to do so to aid event organizers. There is no cost to attend. People may attend all or part of the event. Child care, provided by high school Catholic students, will be available in the meeting room adjacent to the parish center. Parents are welcome to bring their special-needs child to the listening event if this better accommodates their needs. Those who cannot come to the listening event but would like to participate can fill out an online survey. For information, to register, to volunteer to help at the event, to access the online survey or to join the mailing list, go to the archdiocesan website at: www.archkck.org. Go to the home page and “click” on the words “Listening Event.”
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RALLY PARKING:
The Kansas Catholic Conference has announced that there will be no Expo Center satellite parking with shuttles as previously reported. Instead, rally-goers are encouraged to go online to: www.kscathconf.org/rally for detailed information on parking.
Speakers highlight Benedictine’s Social Justice Week
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TCHISON — Benedictine College here will host Social Justice Week Feb. 22 – 25 with an array of guest speakers. The schedule is as follows: • February 22 at 7:30 p.m., the topic will be Catholic education. The Knights of Columbus and the Gregorian Fellows will jointly host Sister John Mary Fleming, OP, executive director of the Secretariat of Catholic Education for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops as presenter. • February 23 at 7 p.m., Dr. Shalina Stilley, assistant professor of philosophy at Conception Seminary, will talk about
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human trafficking. The speech will be sponsored by the Ravens Respect Life and the Institute for Missionary Activity. • February 25 at 7 p.m., the Hunger Coalition and the Sociology Club will host Sister Miracles of the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor of Jesus Christ, to talk about urban homelessness. The talks will be held in the McAllister Board Room of the Ferrell Academic Center at the college, located at 1020 N. Second St. All programs are free and open to the public.
USM’s nursing program achieves accreditation
EAVENWORTH — The University of St. Mary master of science in nursing program here received notice of accreditation by the Commission on College Nursing Education — the nation’s foremost accrediting body for bachelor- and graduate-level nursing degree programs. “This achievement speaks for the nurs-
ing department’s dedication to creating the best online learning environment for its students and its focus on student success,” said Dr. Bryan Le Beau, provost and vice president of academic affairs. “The need for a more highly educated nursing workforce is known, and this program positions graduates for high-demand leadership positions.”
FEBRUARY 12, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS Margaret (Schwerdt) and James Gilbert Helmstetler, members of Holy Spirit Church, O ve r l a n d Park, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Feb. 19. The couple was married at Sacred Heart Church in Topeka. The couple has two children — Joe and John — and four grandchildren. They will celebrate with their family and a few close friends and relatives at the Hereford House in Lenexa on Feb. 20. Judy and Jim Bradford, members of Holy Trinity Church in Lenexa, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Feb. 19. The couple was married on Feb. 19, 1966, at Holy Trinity. Their children are: Allison Bradford Koch, Olathe; James Elliott Bradford, Olathe; and Ericka Lynn Bradford, Lenexa. They also have seven grandchildren. A celebration for family and friends is planned for the spring.
Send notices to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, attn: anniversaries; or send an email to: todd.habiger@ theleaven.org.
WEB EXCLUSIVE
CHURCH OF THE WEEK Prince of Peace, Olathe
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Hillyer named humanitarian of the year
VERLAND PARK — Cari Hillyer, a member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood has been named the Kelly T. Davis, CPA, PA, 2015 Humanitarian of the Year. Hillyer has devoted her life to serving others through the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and St. Michael. She serves as the director of two programs at the parish: the Care and Worship program and the women’s CRHP (Christ Renews His Parish). The Care and Worship program, started 10 years ago by Hillyer, offers parents of special needs children the opportunity to attend Mass while their children participate in a special Sunday School program designed for them. As the director of the women’s CRHP team, Hillyer organizes and oversees a renewal weekend and six months of formation for a group of 30 women. In addition to these groups, Hillyer serves as a Stephen Minister at St. Michael. Stephen Ministers are trained lay ministers with a heart for supporting those with emotional, physical and mental situations occurring in their lives. She also provides meals as part of the sick and bereavement committee. Hillyer is the operations manager at Holy Family School of Faith and is married to Chris Hillyer. They have one son, William.
Address: 16000 W. 143rd, 66062 Phone: (913) 782-8864 Pastor: Father Gerald Volz Mass Times: Saturday, 5 p.m.; Sunday, 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 5 p.m. Email: parishoffice@popolathe.org Website: http://www.princeofpeace. info
Video
A video tour of this church is available online at: www.theleaven.org.
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Cari Hillyer has been named the Kelly T. Davis, CPA, PA, 2015 Humanitarian of the Year.
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RAISE THE ROSARY
Students at St. Agnes School in Roeland Park hold their homemade rosaries high before they are blessed by pastor Father Bill Porter. The rosaries were given to the students’ parents as a thank you for sending them to Catholic schools.
CELEBRATING DIVERSITY
The Vaka family (adults standing at left and seated at far right) and Zackery Carter, second child from left, enlist the help of student volunteers at St. Patrick School in Kansas City, Kansas, to teach students about Tonga Island during Cultural Awareness Day.
KICK IT
Third-graders Marissa Stallbaumer and Anthony Lueger try a little swing dancing on Kick Up Your Heels for Catholic Schools Day on Feb. 1 at Sts. Peter and Paul School in Seneca.
PATRIOTS
BUDDY TIME
PHOTO BY TERRI FOLLIS
The staff and students of St. Benedict School in Atchison sing “God Bless At Holy Spirit School in Overland Park, fourth-grader ValAmerica” while holding the American flag at the end of a patriotic prayer erie Galligan teams up with her first-grade buddy Samuel service during Catholic Schools Week. Punswick to create blankets for newly baptized babies.
GREAT BLESSING
Deacon Robert Zbylut from Sacred Heart Church in Leavenworth blessed the throat of London Johnson, a preschooler at Xavier Elementary School in Leavenworth. The blessing took place on Feb. 3, the feast day of St. Blaise of Sebaste.
HELPING THE HOMELESS
PHOTO BY TERESA STOCKTON
Clockwise from left, Bishop Miege students Renee Saint Louis, Alexandra Robinson, (Sonya Salazar in the background), Alli Keaton (face hidden), Sunny Vo, Lauren Smith, Sean McCullough and Henry Gibson prepare peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to hand out with supplies to the homeless.
CATHOLIC SCHOOLS
WEEK
AROUND THE PRAYER TIME
Students at Sacred Heart School in Shawnee learned about the power of divine mercy as part of their Catholic Schools Week activities. Praying in front of an image of Divine Mercy is third-grader Will Book.
SAINTS ALIVE
Kindergartner Grace Dempsey listens to fifthgrader Ellie Strain portray St. Elizabeth Ann Seton as part of a wax museum at St. Rose Philippine Duchesne School in Garnett.
LIVING ROSARY
Holding microphone on left: Katelyn Brinkman, a seventh-grader at St. Michael the Archangel School in Leawood, recites her part of the school’s living rosary. The rosary was prayed for the parents and volunteers of St. Michael.
ARCHDIOCESE
ENTHUSIASM KICKOFF
LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER
Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann kicks off Catholic Schools Week in Topeka with a regional Mass celebrated at Hayden High School.
PHOTO BY BECCA BUTLER
Maur Hill-Mount Academy in Atchison started Catholic Schools Week a little early — one week early in fact — with an all-school retreat with guest speakers Dr. Andy Swafford and his wife Sarah. Due to scheduling issues, the retreat was held the week before Catholic Schools Week. Freshman Joseph Rziha shows his enthusiasm during a game played during the retreat.
WORLD
FEBRUARY 12, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG
Schedule set for papal trip to Mexico Editor’s note: For ongoing coverage of the pope’s trip to Mexico, go online to: www.theleaven.org. Here is Pope Francis’ schedule for his trip to Mexico. Times listed are Central Standard Time:
Friday, Feb. 12
(Rome, Havana, Mexico City) • 1 p.m. Arrival at Jose Marti International Airport in Havana. • 1:15 p.m. Private meeting with Patriarch Kirill. • 3:30 p.m. Signing of a joint declaration. Speeches by patriarch and by pope.
Saturday, Feb. 13 (Mexico City)
• 10:30 a.m. Welcoming ceremony at the National Palace. Courtesy visit with the president of the republic. • 11:15 a.m. Meeting with representatives of civil society and the diplomatic corps. Speech by pope. • 12:30 p.m. Meeting with Mexico’s bishops in the city’s cathedral. Speech by pope. • 6 p.m. Mass in the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Homily by pope.
Sunday, Feb. 14
(Mexico City, Ecatepec, Mexico City) • 12:30 p.m. Mass in the area of the “study center” of Ecatepec. Homily by pope. Pope recites Angelus. • 2 p.m. Lunch with the papal entourage in the Ecatepec diocesan seminary. • 6:45 p.m. Visit to the Federico Gomez Children’s Hospital of Mexico. Greeting by pope.
Monday, Feb. 15
(Mexico City, Tuxtla Gutierrez, San Cristobal de Las Casas, Mexico City) • 10:15 a.m. Mass at the San Cristobal de Las Casas sports center with the indigenous community from Chiapas. Homily by pope. • 1 p.m. Lunch with representatives of the indigenous community and the papal entourage. • 3 p.m. Visit to the cathedral of San Cristobal de Las Casas. • 4:15 p.m. Meeting with families at the Victor Manuel Reyna Stadium at Tuxtla Gutierrez. Speech by pope.
Tuesday, Feb. 16
(Mexico City, Morelia, Mexico City) • 10 a.m. Mass with priests, seminarians, religious men and women, and consecrated persons. Homily by pope. • 3:20 p.m. Visit to the Morelia cathedral. • 4:30 p.m. Meeting with young people at the Jose Maria Morelos Pavon Stadium. Speech by pope.
Wednesday, Feb. 17 (Mexico City, Ciudad Juarez)
• 10:30 a.m. Visit to Cereso prison. Speech by pope. • 12 p.m. Meeting with workers and employers at the Colegio de Bachilleres of the Mexican state of Chihuahua. Speech by pope. • 4 p.m. Mass at the fairgrounds of Ciudad Juarez. Homily and greeting by pope.
Concrete Work
Any type of repair and new work Driveways, Walks, Patios Member of Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish
Harvey M. Kascht (913) 262-1555
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FEBRUARY 12, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG
CLASSIFIEDS EMPLOYMENT Catholic high school president - Bishop Miege High School, Johnson County, KS, has an opening for president beginning in the 2016-17 school year. Bishop Miege currently has an enrollment of 723 and employs 55 teachers in grades 9 through 12. The school is sponsored by 18 parishes in Johnson County, Kansas, and is governed by a board of trustees. The president reports to the board of trustees. Applicants for president must be practicing Catholics and understand the mission of Catholic education. The president is the chief administrator of the school and is responsible for all school operations, in particular, faith formation, student recruitment, facilities maintenance, strategic planning and overall school advancement. In addition, the Bishop Miege president works collaboratively with the Bishop Miege High School Foundation board of trustees. Applicants should possess proven success in leadership, preferably in a Catholic high school or nonprofit setting. Please complete the online application at: www.archkckcs.org and also send a resume and credentials to: Superintendent Dr. Kathleen A. O’Hara, Catholic School Office, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Application deadline is Feb. 29, with the expectation that interviews will begin shortly thereafter. Sales professional - We respect your many years of experience; we value and need your wisdom. We only ask if you are “coachable”? If so, Catholic Cemeteries of Northeast Kansas has openings for sales trainees in our Johnson, Shawnee and Wyandotte County area cemeteries. An excellent earning of $40K to $50K+ in commissions is legitimate income potential for the first year. Training allowance your first 30 days, then draw commission with bonus opportunities. Medical, life, dental, optical, prescription, 401(k) plans, etc., are some of the many perks our employees receive. Excellent opportunities for women and men interested in a sales career and in helping people. Advancement opportunities are available for hard-working and focused individuals. Must be willing to work some evenings and weekends when our client families are available to see us in their homes. Once you learn our formula for success, your schedule is determined by you. Please email your resume and contact information to: dvanthullenar@ cathcemks.org or fax to (913) 353-1413. Teaching positions - The Goddard School, located at 21820 W. 115th Terr., Olathe, is looking for qualified lead teachers and assistant teachers – both full- and part-time positions available. Lead Teacher – full time. Assistant Teacher – full-time floating position. In our warm, loving atmosphere, our highly qualified teachers support the healthy development of children from six weeks to six years. Our teachers write and implement their own lesson plans based on our FLEX program, Goddard Developmental Guidelines and our monthly school theme. Lead teachers also complete other duties such as electronic daily attendance reports, progress reports and parent conferences. The hands-on efforts of the school owner and directors allow our teachers to focus on their children, their lesson plans and teaching to ensure a fun-filled day of learning. Full-time benefits include competitive pay, paid time off, opportunities for professional development and career growth, and a great working environment. Qualified candidates must meet or exceed Kansas regulations, have strong communication skills and desire to learn and implement the Goddard School programs. Lead teachers should have an Early Childhood Education degree, a CDA or a degree in a related field with an emphasis in Early Childhood Education. Prior experience in a child care setting is preferred. Please specify for which position you are applying. To apply, forward your resume to: olathe2ks@goddardschools.com. Attention: Mandy Ellis, director. 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. 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. Personal banker - The First National Bank branch in Prairie Village, located in the Corinth Square Shopping Center, is seeking a full-time personal banker with account opening experience. Resumes can be emailed to: dwagner@ bankfirst.com. Executive director – Catholic Campus Ministry Association – Dedicated, inspiring leader committed to Catholic campus ministry. Demonstrated success in nonprofit leadership and mission development; Catholic campus ministry or related field experience; excellent speaking, writing, leadership, management, organizational skills; and ability to travel. Send cover letter, resume, and salary requirement to: info@ccmanet.org by Feb. 29. Director of facility operations - St. James Academy is looking for a director of facility operations. The director will lead a team that is responsible for the maintenance and repair of the building, grounds, vehicles, equipment and security system and for the safe and efficient operation of same. He/she will also be involved in planning and coordination of facility or grounds modifications and new construction in future years. Start date will be June 1. Please send resume and cover letter by email to Linda White at: lwhite@sjakeepingfaith.org or by mail to 24505 Prairie Star Pkwy., Lenexa, KS 66227. Part-time administrator - Knights of Columbus, Eastern Kansas Insurance Agency, 1275 S.W. Topeka Blvd., Topeka, KS 66612. 20 - 25 hours per week. Please send resume to: john.mahon@kofc.org.
Marketing position - We are looking for a bilingual (English and Spanish), motivated and personable person to aid in our local expansion. We are a publicly traded national marketing company expanding here in the Midwest. We offer complete training in a positive environment. This position is part time and has flexible hours. Send email with resume and inquiries to: localsearch1980@gmail.com. The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas currently has three full-time openings: - Consultant for pro-life - Consultant for deaf and hard of hearing - Accounts payable/payroll accountant Please visit our website at: www.archkck.org/jobs to view the full job descriptions. Interested individuals should mail cover letter, resume and application by Feb. 22 to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, Job Search, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, or send via email to: jobs@archkck.org. Afternoon teachers - Prince of Peace Early Education Center in Olathe is seeking afternoon teachers. There are openings in our 2-year-olds room and our school-age room from 2:30 - 6 p.m., M-F. Experience preferred for the 2-year-olds classroom; one year of experience in a child care center required for the school-age program. We are looking for the right candidates to fill these positions and we offer a competitive hourly wage. Contact Amanda at (913) 829-2728. Coaches needed - Bishop Miege High School is seeking the following assistant coaches: baseball, golf, softball and track. Email letter of interest and resume to Mike Hubka at: mhubka@bishopmiege.com. Drivers - Special Beginnings Early Learning Center is seeking part-time drivers for its school-age program located in Lenexa. Candidates must be able to drive a 13-passenger minibus, similar to a 15-passenger van. CDL not required, but must have an excellent driving record. Candidates would pick up children from area schools and then work directly with them when arriving back at the center. Experience preferred. Must have strong work ethic and the ability to work with children. Insurance provided. Background check will be conducted. Great opportunity for retired persons or those seeking a second job. Job responsibilities include: ensuring safety and well-being of children who are being transported at all times, including loading and unloading. Driving short, round-trip routes to elementary schools in Lenexa/Olathe area. Summer only: Driving short, round- trip routes to two Lenexa city pools. Maintaining mileage log. Keeping interior of vehicle clean. Apply by sending an email to chris@specialbeginnings online.com or in person at 10216 Pflumm Rd., Lenexa KS 66215. Administrative assistant/office manager/PT -Looking for something new? Use your experience to help us improve people’s lives. Developmental optometrist needs help with her small practice. M-Th, Noon-6 p.m. No benefits. Background in word processing, Excel, QuickBooks, customer service and medical office experience are helpful. Send resume to: Dr. Bazin, 13600 Washington, Kansas City, MO 64145, or send an email to: bbazin@ visiondevelop.com. 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, 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.
SERVICES Garage door and opener sales and service - 24-hour, 7-day-a-week service on all types of doors. Replace broken spring rollers, gate openers, entry and patio doors and more. Over 32 years of experience. Call (913) 227-4902. Cleaning lady - Reasonable rates; references provided. Call (913) 940-2959 Tree service - Pruning trees for optimal growth and beauty and removal of hazardous limbs or problem trees. Free consultation and bid. Safe, insured, professional. Cristofer Estrada, Green Solutions of KC, (913) 378-5872. www.GreenSolutionsKC.com.
Hair stylist - Valentine’s special: Two eyebrow threadings for the price of one; $5 off chemical services (color/ perm; prices begin at $50); free style with haircut for new clients (prices begin at $9). Call Afsi at (913) 5936513 between 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. 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. Junkyard Dawg - Can do cleanup, debris removal and any other odd job you have. Call (913) 575-8522 for an estimate. 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. 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 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 renovation, tile and sheetrock. If you need work done around your home, we can do it. Thank you for your continued support. Call Josh at (913) 709-7230. Swalms Organizing - Downsizing - Clean Out Service – Reduce clutter – Any space organized. Shelving built on site. Items hauled for recycling and donations. 20 years exp; insured. Call Tillar at (913) 375-9115. WWW. SWALMSORGANIZING.COM. Local handyman and lawn care – Water heaters, garbage disposals, toilets, faucets, painting, power washing, doors, storm doors, gutter cleaning, wood rot, mowing, carpet, roofing, etc. Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118. 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. 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. 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. 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) 252-1391 STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Free estimates. Call (913) 491-5837 or (913) 579-1835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa. Detail construction and remodeling - We offer a full line of home remodeling services. Don’t move — remodel! Johnson County area. Call for a free quote at (913) 709-8401.
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.
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
Clutter getting you down? - Organize, fix, assemble, install! “Kevin of all Trades” your professional organizer and “HONEY-DO” specialist. Call today for a free consultation at (913) 649-2704. Visit our website at: www. KOATINDUSTRIES.com.
HARCO Exteriors LLC Your Kansas City fencing specialists Family owned and operated (913) 815-4817 www.harcoexteriorsllc.com
Tree service - Certified arborist Chris Johnson at Tufts Tree Service performs all tree services, including restoration, pruning, training, removal and stump grinding. Fully licensed and insured. See Chris at: www.tuftstree service@gmail.com. Call ( 785) 218-1531.
House painting Interior and exterior; wallpaper removal. Power washing, fences, decks. 30 years experience. References. Reasonable rates. Call Joe at (913) 620-5776.
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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: dan deeconst@aol.com. 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 you’ll be glad you did. Everything is guaranteed 100% (913) 461-4052 www.windowservicesoverlandpark.com drcconswindows@gmail.com
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. Compassionate caregiver - 45 year-old Catholic woman with 13 years experience. Works days or nights. Flexible. Pay negotiable. Excellent references. Call Kara at (913)909-6659. Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation to the elderly and disabled in home, assisted living and nursing facilities. We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Laurie, Pat or Gary. Certified nurse’s aide, caregiver - Provides TLC in private homes 6 - 24 hours. Affordable, excellent references. Nonsmoker. Specializes in dementia care, wound care, medication setup and light housekeeping. 30 years’ experience. Call Lori at (816) 517-9986. Personalized care - Experienced, specializing in dementia, medication setup and activities of daily living. Excellent references. Contact Andrea at (913)548-1930. Need help? - Do you or your parents need help at home? Doctor appointments? Shopping? Light meals? Companionship? Years of experience. References. Call (913) 2575303. Compassionate caregiver - 45 year-old with 13 years experience. Works nights or days. Flexible. Pay negotiable. Excellent references. Call Kara at (913) 909-6659. CNA, Home Health Care Professional - Provides TLC in the comfort of the client’s residence. Budget Friendly. Available 24 hours, or part time. Excellent references. 25 years of Seasoned Experience. Nonsmoker. Call (816) 806-8104.
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.
Price Reduced! - At Gate of Heaven Cemetery, a double cremation niche with companion urn in the mausoleum. It is located in the St. John Corridor, #8 H. Today’s selling price for the double niche and urn is approximately $6,522; offering for $3,500. Call Colleen at (913) 269-6944.
FOR RENT For rent - Ranch style three BD home in sought-after neighborhood off of Shawnee Mission Pkwy. near the Plaza. Easy access to downtown. 1.5 bathrooms, fireplace, screened porch, patio, two-car garage and fenced yard. Call (913) 262-5440.
TRAVEL EDDIE DELAHUNT IRELAND TOUR Musical Tour of Ireland Sept 13-24, 2016 - $3,950 pp sharing RT air, luxury coach, breakfasts, hotels, porterage, entry fees, insurance. Irish guide - Gerry Buckley Contact mary@completetrav.com or call (913) 648-1560. DOWNTON ABBEY - HIGHCLERE Visit Highclere Castle, Cotswolds, Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Liverpool, Stonehenge, Buckingham Palace Aug 10-20, 2016 - $3499 pp sharing Contact mary@completetrav.com or call (913) 648-1560.
WANTED TO BUY Wanted to buy - 20 - 120 acres, tillable, wooded and/ or pond, east of Tonganoxie, north/south of 24 Hwy. No realtors. Call (269) 217-6579. Classifieds continue on page 13
FEBRUARY 12, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG
CALENDAR >> Continued from page 12 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 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.
ROOMMATE Roommate wanted - Share a furnished 2 BR apartment (Village West Apartments) near The Legends shopping center. Call (913) 745- 6674. Roommate wanted - Female seeking female roommate in Overland Park. $400 per month plus one-third of the utilities. Furnished. Six minutes from Oak Park Mall. No pets. Call (913) 599-5574. WANT TO BUY A CLASSIFIED AD? Contact The Leaven’s advertising coordinator, Beth Blankenship, at (913) 6470327 or email her at: beth.blankenship@theleaven.org. Cost is $18.50 for the first five lines, and $1.50 for each additional line.
LENTEN MORNING OF PRAYER AND REFLECTION Prince of Peace Parish 16000 W. 143rd St., Olathe Feb. 13 from 8:45 a.m. - noon
Explore a life oriented to God with special focus on the works of mercy. The cost to attend is $35. Scholarships are available. For information, visit the website at: www. ignatiancenterkc.org or contact Rich online at: rvjrscherme@gmail.com.
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American Edelweiss Society. The cost is $20 per person; ages 12-20 is $10; ages 6-11 is $5; and ages 5 and under are free. Cost of admission includes dinner, drink and dance. For more information, call Patty Orth at (913) 371-2468 or send an email to: Pattyorth@ sbcglobal.net.
DEATH PENALTY ALTERNATIVES St. Thomas More (More Hall) 11822 Holmes Rd., Kansas City, Missouri Feb. 20 from 9 - 10 a.m.
Susan Long, a victim of a murdered family member, will discuss her opposition to the death penalty. For more information, call David Butel at (816) 942-2492, ext. 210.
BEGINNING EXPERIENCE WEEKEND Precious Blood Center 2130 St. Gaspar Way, Liberty, Missouri Feb. 26-28 ROSARY RALLY IN HONOR OF OUR LADY OF FATIMA St. Joseph Parish 11311 Johnson Dr., Shawnee Feb. 14 from 3 - 4:15 p.m.
Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas • Catholic Bequests
• Donor Advised Funds
• Gift Annuities
• Named Scholarship Funds
• Endowments
• Memorial Funds
Remember a gift to the church in your will
(913) 647-0325 CFNEK@archkck.org www.cfnek.org
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: wwwrosaryrallieskc. org.
SOUP LUNCHEON Most Pure Heart of Mary (Formation Room) 3601 S.W. 17th St., Topeka Feb. 14 from 1 - 3 p.m.
The weekend is for widowed, separated and divorced people who are suffering the loss of a love relationship. This is an opportunity to turn the pain of loss into an experience of positive growth. For more information, visit the website at: www.beginningexperience kc.org; to register, send an email to: bekc@ gmail.com; or contact Teresa at (816) 5299002.
PADRE PIO ACADEMY OPEN HOUSE 5901 Flint St., Shawnee Feb. 21 from 3 - 5 p.m.
We offer a classical Catholic curriculum. Come see why we are the best-kept secret in Kansas City. For more information, visit our website at: www.padrepioacademy.org or call (913) 268-3155.
The Christian Widow and Widowers Organization will host the soup luncheon. There is no cost to attend. For more information, call (785) 272-0055.
MUSIC, MOVEMENT AND MEDITATION CONCERT Sanctuary of Hope 2601 Ridge Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Feb. 14 from 2 - 3 p.m.
Debbie Clark, principal harpist with the Kansas City Symphony, will play. The cost is a freewill donation.
BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP Prince of Peace (faculty lounge) 16000 W. 143rd St., Olathe Feb. 18 at 7 p.m.
Join the bereavement support group for our guest speaker, Father Jerry Volz, the pastor of Prince of Peace. Light refreshments will follow. For more information, call (913) 8399991.
HEALING MASS Curé of Ars (Father Burak Room) 9405 Mission Rd., Leawood Feb. 18 at 7:30 p.m.
This Mass is sponsored by archdiocesan charismatic prayer groups. For more information, call (913) 649-2026.
‘WALKING THROUGH LENT IN GOD’S MERCY’ Sophia Spirituality Center 751 S. 8th St., Atchison Feb. 18 and 25 from 10 - 11:30 a.m.
This four-week series will explore the ideas and values of Pope Francis’ jubilee Year of Mercy. For more information or to register, call (913) 360-6151 or visit Sophia Spirituality Center’s website at: www.sophiaspirituality center.org.
SWEETHEART DANCE St. Anthony Church (basement) 615 N. 7th St., Kansas City, Kansas Feb. 20 from 6 - 10:30 p.m.
The dance is sponsored by the German-
PANCAKE BREAKFAST St. Bede (church basement) 7344 Drought St., Kelly Feb. 21 from 7 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
We will be serving pancakes, sausage and eggs. The cost is a freewill donation.
SYMPTO-THERMAL METHOD OF NATURAL FAMILY PLANNING Class begins Feb. 24 at 6:30 p.m. St. John the Evangelist School 1208 Kentucky St., Lawrence
A reasonable course fee is charged and online registration is required at: www.ccli.org. Call Shannon or John Rasmussen at (785) 749-1015 or the Couple to Couple League of Kansas City at (913) 894-3558 for more information.
LENTEN DAY OF REFLECTION Sanctuary of Hope Retreat Center 2601 Ridge Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Feb. 27 from 7:45 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Father Dennis Wait will give a retreat presentation on “Where you stand is holy ground” (Ex 3:5). The cost is $30 per person or $50 per couple. Registration must be done by Feb. 22. Call (913) 321-4673, or send an email to: julie@sanctuaryofhope.org.
40 DAYS FOR LIFE Center for Women’s Health 4840 College Blvd., Overland Park Feb. 13 - March 20 from 7 a.m. - 5 p.m.
This is a peaceful pro-life vigil taking place every day throughout Lent. Join this worldwide effort to protect mothers and children and help save lives.
FEBRUARY 12, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG
COMMENTARY FIRST WEEK OF LENT Feb. 14 FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT Dt 26: 4-10 Ps 91: 1-2, 10-15 Rom 10: 8-13 Lk 4: 1-13 Feb. 15 Monday Lv 19: 1-2, 11-18 Ps 19: 8-10, 15 Mt 25: 31-46 Feb. 16 Tuesday Is 55: 10-11 Ps 34: 4-7, 16-19 Mt 6: 7-15 Feb. 17 The Seven Holy Founders of the Servite Order Jon 3: 1-10 Ps 51: 3-4, 12-13, 18-19 Lk 11: 29-32 Feb. 18 Thursday Est C: 12, 14-16, 23-25 Ps 138: 1-3, 7c-8 Mt 7: 7-12 Feb. 19 Friday Ez 18: 21-28 Ps 130: 1-8 Mt 5: 20-26 Feb. 20 Saturday Dt 26: 16-19 Ps 119: 1-2, 4-5, 7-8 Mt 5: 43-48
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Change the Internet into the ‘Inner-net’
ecently, I’ve had a couple of wonderful experiences on social media, proving that this means of communication can indeed be, well, social. If you’ve used it at all, you know that social media can, at times, be very antisocial, meaning that people post some of the most awful, negative, misinformed, divisive and hateful comments. The Web’s anonymity seems to give some people license to toss all decency and politeness out the window. Happily, there is another side to things. For example, in mid-December I received a message via Facebook that Jill, a former student from my days of teaching at Marymount International School in Rome, was seriously ill. Her cancer, which had been in remission, had now aggressively returned. I immediately responded to the message, promising prayers. A few moments later, my phone pinged with a message from another of my former students and then it pinged again and again as messages were posted to an MMI group site. When I mentioned I’d remember Jill in my Mass the next morning,
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.
all in the group wanted to know the exact time of Mass. Armed with that information, these former classmates promised to stop and pray at that time, in whatever time zone they found themselves. These alumnae live in California, Arizona, Oklahoma, Canada, Italy and the Far East, to name just a few spots. Sadly, Jill passed away later on the day of the Mass. There then followed a flurry of messages to her family, assuring them of prayers and posting memories from literally around the world. The family was
both grateful and comforted. Then last week, the father of a good friend of mine passed away and I was asked to do the homily at the funeral Mass. Since he was well known to a number of my Facebook friends, I reached out to them to share their thoughts and impressions with me. How incredible to get messages back — in record time — not only from those who live nearby, but from others scattered across Kansas, North Carolina and even the Dominican Republic. This was a way for all of us to be together at this time of loss, though scattered by distance. These positive uses of the Internet and social media got me thinking about how the Internet might play an integral part in your Lent this year.
Last week, for example, we alerted Leaven readers to a “digital Lent” offered by the Apostles of the Interior Life. They’re providing daily video and audio reflections throughout Lent via our archdiocesan Digital Media Center (resources.archkck.org) or via the smartphone app “Catholic Media ArchKCK.” I’d also like to suggest a few more sites that might prove helpful in making this season a time of deep spiritual growth. Since many parishes handed out Matthew Kelly’s “Rediscover Jesus” book this past Christmas, the author is inviting people to experience the Best Lent Ever®. After signing up at: DynamicCatholic.com/Lent, you’ll receive a daily email with a short video that will “guide you through each of the 40 chapters of the book and share simple ways to bring Jesus into your everyday life.” Kelly says, “Don’t give up chocolate this Lent.” Instead, “do something life-changing.” The Fellowship of Catholic University Students has a great app in the Apple Store or Google Play that gets right to the “meat” of Lent. It’s called Lentsanity. One of its most unusual features is the Meat Police. The
app will send you a push notification before lunch and dinner to “remind you to not eat meat on Fridays during Lent.” (I guess you’re on your own for Friday breakfast!) In addition, the app has infographics, articles, videos and recipes. The Irish Jesuits and Loyola Press will offer an online Lent retreat at: www.sacredspace.ie. The site also contains a wonderful daily prayer format. Its home page is a helpful guide on meditation that walks you step by step through each day’s prayer, accompanied by some soothing music if you choose. This is a great place to check out, both for beginning pray-ers as well as seasoned ones. And now that Ash Wednesday has come and gone, just for fun, Google “A Catholic Guide to Ashes” to see an illustrated chart of what style of ash you received this year. Someone has a great sense of humor. These websites serve an essential Lenten purpose: to turn us inward in order to better turn outward in service of God and neighbor. May these Lenten days transform your Internet into an “Inner-net” of reflection and conversion of heart.
Jesus, too, was at least twice tempted to resist God’s will
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movie will often end with a suggestion that a sequel may eventually follow and so fulfill the hopes of its makers that it will form part of a long series of blockbusters, like “Star Wars,” “The Hunger Games,” or, better yet, the James Bond 007 movies. A cliffhanger points to another story yet to come. In a sense, Sunday’s Gospel reading, Lk 4:113, fits into that category. It concludes with the tantalizing observation: “When the devil had finished every temptation, he departed from him for a time.” The scene takes place in the desert, where Jesus has been fasting for 40 days. Perhaps the devil believes
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.
that this lack of food has weakened Jesus’ resolve. At any rate, the devil subjects Jesus to various temptations,
God doesn’t want to condemn anyone; he wants to save every person in the entire world, Pope Francis said. “The problem is letting him enter one’s heart” to transform one’s life, the pope said during his weekly general audience in St. Peter’s Square Feb.
which Jesus resists. That is why the devil departs from Jesus for a time, but for a time only. And how long is that? The Gospels do not supply us with a definitive answer. If Jesus was like us in all things but sin, he most probably was frequently tempted, maybe every day. At the same time, the Gospel of Luke shows us only one more moment when
Jesus underwent severe temptation. That moment took place the evening before he died (Lk 22:39-46). As Jesus prayed in the Mount of Olives, he struggled with the mission that God had entrusted to him. He prayed, “Father, if you are willing, take this cup away from me; still, not my will but yours be done.” The struggle is so intense, that his sweat becomes like drops of blood. The text states that he was in agony. The word “agony” derives from the Greek word that means struggle. Originally, it did not necessarily mean an experience of pain or suffering. It only gained that meaning later on. Here, the word describes the internal
3. “This is the heart of God, the heart of a father who loves his children and wants them to live rightly and justly and, therefore, to live in fullness and be happy,” he said. The pope continued a series of talks dedicated to divine mercy, looking specifically at how divine mercy and divine justice go hand in hand.
conflict taking place within Jesus, whether he should comply with God’s will or not. Twice, Jesus says to the disciples with him, “Pray that you may not undergo the test.” The Greek word translated here as “test” may also be translated as “temptation.” The temptation to which Jesus refers is the temptation that he himself is experiencing: to resist the will of God. The devil was back. But once again, Jesus wins. His death on the cross represents his final victory over the forces of evil. It reflects the decision he made the evening before: to obey God’s will. Jesus was like us in all things but sin. Like us, he was tempted. But he resisted, and so gives us an example to follow.
“It might seem that they are two things that contradict each other,” he said, but they don’t because “it is precisely God’s mercy that brings true justice to fruition.” God’s justice is different from the human administration of legal justice, which is “retributive, that imposes a penalty on the guilty,” the pope said. — CNS
FEBRUARY 12, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG
COMMENTARY
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Metrics must measure success by Gospel-based mission
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ear friends of Catholic schools, As I write this, I am returning from a meeting hosted by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and the University of Notre Dame’s Alliance for Catholic Education (ACE) program. The purpose of the meeting was to facilitate conversations among diocesan leaders on topics related to keeping Catholic schools vital into the future. I came away from this meeting with several thoughts and ideas. First, it seems that all of us across the country are facing similar challenges, but it was
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affirming to hear the various approaches to solutions. I was encouraged to learn that many of the presentations described programs that are similar to ours, yet I also was able to see concrete ways we could improve what we do. For example, we will be developing better dashboards of metrics that will clearly show how well our schools are accomplishing their mission. We must take care to measure the right things, in the right way, at the right time, for the right reason! Second, I came away with several ideas about how we can assist pastors and principals with the tremendous
FROM THE SUPER
KATHY O’HARA Kathy O’Hara is the superintendent of archdiocesan schools.
ministry of Catholic schools. I think we can provide greater support and guidance to ensure that we continue to have
the best leadership and practices in our schools. Third, I was inspired by the caliber of leaders we have in Catholic schools across the country. They are highly competent and professional, but, more importantly, enthusiastically faithfilled individuals with
extraordinary energy and a desire to continually learn and share their gifts with others for the good of our church and our families and students. Quite simply, these are some of the warmest and most genuinely good persons that I know. It was a joy just to be with them! Fourth, it was apparent that now, more than ever, we in Catholic schools need to better articulate the distinct differences between our schools and other schools. One of the hallmarks of our students always has been how well they do in college and their careers. But if that
were all we did for our students — make them “college and career ready” — we would have failed them. Yet that seems to be all that other forms of education are stressing. I have great hope in our future because the type of formation the students in our Catholic schools are receiving prepares them for service to our society. Our graduates learn that they have a responsibility to follow the Gospel message of Jesus: “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Mt 25:40). ¡Vaya con Dios!
Prodigal son a starting point for reflection on God’s mercy
f we really understood the parable of the prodigal son, we would understand the nature of our sin, the process of reconciliation and God’s unfailing love for us. We would then see the sacrament of penance and reconciliation in an entirely new way, and the regular opportunity to confess our sins and know the Lord’s love would be irresistible to us. I am convinced of this. We have often reflected on the father’s compassion in this parable and on how poorly the older brother reacts to the news of his brother’s return home. I believe it would do us well to reflect also on
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the first part of Jesus’ parable: the short illustration of the prodigal son’s decision to leave home. To understand the nature of disobedience, the perpetual human desire for emancipation from God and the sheer pointlessness of sin is crucial in truly appreciating what the Lord offers us when we “come to our senses” (Lk 15:17). Far from being a guilt trip, such a reflection can help us understand the roots of our sins so that we may eventually lose all desire to leave our Father’s house again. The words of Jesus become a springboard for us in understanding
AS THE CHURCH PRAYS
MICHAEL PODREBARAC Michael Podrebarac is the archdiocesan consultant for the office of liturgy and sacramental life.
even that which happens after the parable
concludes. Remember, Jesus stops short of offering us the older brother’s final reaction. And he does not tell us how (or even if) the younger son mends his ways. And mending one’s ways seems to be a point which many land on when discussing the
theme of God’s mercy. From Jesus’ revelations on the Father’s compassion, we can venture out to the sometimes-forgotten nature of our sins and the often-dreaded practice of doing penance. In other words, we can come to grasp the whole cycle, if you will, of how we: sin, recognize sin, react to sin, confess our sin, experience forgiveness, celebrate recovery, overcome scandal and finally embark upon the path of freedom. Like all of us, I am one who has lived out this parable in my own life, and from each of its many angles. And I ardently desire to
share what I have so far concluded, and with as many as possible. And so, I invite you to join me for a reflection on this beautiful synthesis of reconciliation and penance. For starters, we have the following times scheduled: on March 8 from 7-8:30 p.m. at Mother Teresa Church in Topeka, and on March 15 from 7-8:30 p.m. at St. Patrick Church in Kansas City, Kansas. All are most welcome. In addition, I will be happy to come to your parish and share this reflection. Contact me at the archdiocesan office for liturgy and sacramental life for how we can make that happen.
National speakers headline religious rally in Topeka
n Feb. 17, the Kansas bishops will be partnering with other faith-based organizations to host a Rally for Religious Freedom inside the state Capitol building in Topeka. The rally will run from noon to 1 p.m. inside the rotunda area on the second floor. Attendees will hear from the Heritage Foundation’s Ryan Anderson, one of the nation’s leading experts on federal, state and local laws that threaten the ability of Americans to live their faith in their daily lives. Barronelle Stutzman will be speaking to her firsthand experience with just such a law. Stutzman is a great-grandmother who
runs a floral shop in the state of Washington. One of her longtime customers asked her to provide the floral arrangements for his same-sex wedding to another man. Stutzman politely declined because that kind of ceremony violates her Christian beliefs about marriage. She had been selling flowers to this gentleman for nine years and cherished him as a friend. Moreover, Stutzman had had openly gay employees working at her shop at various times, which was not a problem for her. The problem only came when she was asked to use her creative skills to help celebrate a same-sex wedding, a ceremony fundamen-
CHURCH AND STATE
MICHAEL SCHUTTLOFFEL Michael Schuttloffel is the executive director of the Kansas Catholic Conference.
tally in conflict with her religious beliefs. That is when she felt that she would be crossing the
line into participation in an activity and behavior that her religious beliefs told her were immoral. Only at that point did she object. After she explained that she could not participate because of her religious beliefs, she recommended other florists to the man making the request and hugged him
before he left the store. The attorney general of the state of Washington is now prosecuting her for discrimination. Pastor Hernan Castano will also be speaking at the rally. Pastor Castano is one of the “Houston Five” pastors who had their sermons subpoenaed by the city of Houston during the debate over a controversial city ordinance similar to the law that ensnared Stutzman. The president of the March for Life, Jeanne Mancini, will be discussing conscience rights, which of course has serious ramifications for the pro-life cause. Everett Piper, president of Oklahoma Wesleyan University, is a litigant in the lawsuit against the
Department of Health and Human Services mandate and a compelling speaker on the subject of religious freedom. Governor Brownback will also be offering his remarks. A very large crowd is expected, so please arrive early to get through security. For information about parking, visit the website at: www.kscathconf.org/ rally. Remember that your being at the rally is of incredible importance. Even if you are too far back to see or hear, your presence alone will help impress upon lawmakers the fact that people of faith are not going down without a fight.
FEBRUARY 12, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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TO BELIZE WITH LOVE
‘The relationships I made . . . changed my heart’ By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
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TCHISON — Although Belize is known for its recreational opportunities and coastal tourist attractions, life for the native people of this country is anything but easy. But if you travel south to the town of Benque Viejo del Carmen, it is not the poverty of the Belizeans that strikes you. If you look a little closer, in fact, said Zane Littlefield, a senior at Benedictine College in Atchison, the innate kindness of the Benque community will “blow your expectations out of the water.” For nearly 10 years, student volunteers from Benedictine have dedicated their spring break to travel to Benque for mission work. This year’s trip will take place from March 4-13, and the student leaders are more than excited to go back to what they call their second home. “Once you go, it’s kind of hard not to want to go back,” said Littlefield, one of four students that will lead this year’s group of 27 to the small Central American country. “Ever since we’ve been going, the relationship down there has just grown a lot, which is really cool to see,” he said. Anna Hagenkord, a junior at Benedictine as well as one of the Belize leaders, is excited to return to Benque for the second time and see the people she worked with last year. “The relationships I made with the people of Benque changed my heart,” she said. “I got to experience a beautiful part of the world while helping the kids grow in their faith and education.” What makes this trip unique is the social aspect, said Littlefield. In just one week, the Benedictine team is able to build lasting relationships with the people they work with, and to spread the faith through actions. Each morning, the women tutor at Benque’s Mount Carmel Primary School. Although the children lack basic school supplies, said Hagenkord, they are “overwhelmingly grateful for every little thing they are given.” The children’s first response when they see the Benedictine women is to give them anything they can find in their desks. Erasers, coloring book pages and pencils are just a few of their offerings, even when those are the only supplies they have. “They are some of the most outgoing,
PHOTO BY IAN LEE
Student volunteers from Benedictine College in Atchison have fun with the children of Benque Viejo del Carmen, Belize. For 10 years, Benedictine students have dedicated their spring break to doing mission work in the Benque community.
For more information on the Belize mission trip, go online to: www.gofundme.com/hs76myq8 or contact Anna Hagenkord at: Anna hagenkord@aol.com. Financial donations, school supplies and soccer gear can be mailed to: Zane Littlefield Benedictine College 1020 N. 2nd St. Atchison, KS 66002
yet kindhearted, children I have ever met,” said Hagenkord. While the women are at the school, the men work on construction jobs at the local church, the schools or wherever they are needed. “Last year, we helped an elderly lady who had a large family and no husband,” said Littlefield. “She had a terminal illness and was very, very poor. “Pretty much everything that she had was given to her.”
The Benedictine team rehabbed her flooring, outdoor kitchen and outdoor shower. “Before, the shower was pretty much just a mud pit with four tree branches coming out of the ground,” he said. At the end of the week, some of the Benedictine students were able to put together their extra money to buy soap, kitchen supplies and toys for the family, along with other basic necessities. “That’s something we’ll try to do again this year,” said Littlefield. Each afternoon, the Benedictine team hosts a soccer camp for area kids. Soccer, said Littlefield, is a way “for the kids to be able to come together and do something they love, and to get them away from the hardships of life.” For a lot of the children, this is the only organized camp they will participate in all year. Many of them play barefoot and in their school uniforms, for lack of anything else to wear. In total, the Benedictine students usually host anywhere from 60-100 kids.
The goal of the camp is to bring the community together and to teach the children values they might not learn at home. “Last year, we had one kid who was kind of the bully of the pack,” said Littlefield. “But the teenagers gave us an idea of his house situation, and how his parents were drug addicts, and how sometimes they would give him drugs.” “Just to see that is actually happening is really sad. And how it’s expressed in his personality is really hard to see,” he continued. “But we go down there for people like that.” Katie Miskin, a sophomore making the Belize trip for the first time, is most excited to experience a different culture and new way of life. “I would say I have lived a very sheltered life and I rarely see poverty,” she said. “I believe this trip will help to open my eyes and heart to how most of the world lives today,” she added. “I am ready to be part of the change.”