03-18-16 Vol. 37 No. 31

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 37, NO. 31 | MARCH 18, 2016

HAPPINESS IS A WARM BLANKET Father Mark Mertes proudly holds one of the kindergartner’s blankets during Mass.

In his homily, Father Mertes talked about how blankets can make one feel warm and safe.

SAY CHRIST THE KING KINDERGARTNERS AND THE ‘PEANUTS’ GANG

STORY BY MOIRA CULLINGS | PHOTOS BY LORI WOOD HABIGER

Lessa Mera-Hernandez, a kindergartner at Christ the King School in Kansas City, Kansas, brings her handmade blanket to the altar during an all-school Mass. The kindergarten class at Christ the King made 22 prayer tie blankets for children at Providence Medical Center in Kansas City, Kansas.

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ANSAS CITY, Kan. — The kindergarten class of Christ the King School here had something special to contribute to the parish’s allschool Mass on March 9.

Not only were they responsible for planning the Mass and proclaiming the readings, but they also brought the work of their own little hands to

the Lord’s table.

During the offertory procession, one by one, each child walked down the center church aisle and gently placed a handmade blanket on the altar.

“We made them for sick kids that can’t go to school,” explained Elijah Clark, one of the school’s 22 kindergartners.

“And kids that are at the hospital that are really, really sick,” added Mi’Nia Barksdale-Bey, Elijah’s classmate.

Together, the class made 22 prayer

HOLDING COURT

Hayden High School dedicates its basketball court to a longtime coach.

Page 3

tie blankets for children at Providence Medical Center in Kansas City, Kansas, a service project that was initiated by their teacher, Caroline Strenk.

“When my sister had cancer — she’s now [been] in remission for about six months — she received a prayer blanket when she was in the hospital,” said Strenk.

Knowing how powerful the gift was for her sister moved Strenk to offer this service opportunity to her

24 HOURS

Eight churches in the archdiocese host 24 Hours for the Lord.

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own students.

“I thought it would be a good opportunity to help the kids learn the corporal works of mercy this year.

One of them is to comfort the sick,” she said.

Strenk also used the occasion to teach the children about the importance of almsgiving during Lent, as well as to help them develop fine motor skills. >> See “EVERYONE” on page 11

HOLY DIVER

Bishop Miege’s only male diver makes the most of his unique situation.

Page 16

MARCH 18, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

ARCHBISHOP

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Close out like a champion, encourages archbishop

n the midst of March Madness, you hear basketball pundits speak about the importance of being able to close out games.

A team can play terrific for 38 minutes but, if they blow the last two minutes, it may be all for naught. Three important characteristics of successful teams in closing out games are: 1) playing good defense — forcing the other team to make errors; 2) not making mistakes, e.g., not turning the ball over or taking low percentage shots; and 3) shooting free throws well.

As we enter into Holy Week, it is a moment to reflect upon how we want to close out the Lenten season. I wish to propose three important ways to bring this special season to a fruitful conclusion.

First, I encourage you to read prayerfully during this week one or more of the Passion narratives. On Palm Sunday this year, we read St. Luke’s account of the passion of Jesus and on Good Friday we always read the passion account of St. John.

I encourage you to read slowly through the entire Passion, then return to reflect prayerfully on those passages that particularly moved you. Personally, there are several passages in Luke’s Passion that provide me with a wealth of material for my prayer.

Luke’s description of the prayer of Jesus in the garden I find particularly

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN powerful. Jesus prays: “Father, if you are willing, take this cup away from me; still, not my will but yours be done.” Luke alone relates that Jesus “prayed so fervently that his sweat became like drops of blood falling on the ground.” Luke captures the intensity of this moment. Jesus is completely aware of the cruel suffering that is about to be inflicted upon him and so he implores the Father to relieve him of it. Yet, Jesus ultimately embraces the Father’s will over what are his own preferences.

Another section of Luke’s Passion that I find fruitful for my own meditation is the depiction of Peter’s denial of Jesus.

The scene takes place in the courtyard of the high priest. Peter is trying to stay close to observe the fate of Jesus, but at a safe enough distance

that he will not also be arrested. When one of the high priest’s maids and others recognize Peter as a disciple of Jesus, Peter denies that he knows him.

In addition to the cock crowing after the third denial, Luke describes Jesus turning and looking at Peter. Luke shows Peter exiting the Passion “weeping bitterly.”

It is Luke who relates Jesus praying for mercy for his executioners. Only Luke’s Gospel tells us that Jesus promised one of those with whom he is crucified (identified in tradition as Dismas) that Dismas would be with Jesus that very day in paradise. Luke hammers home in his description of the Passion the theme, found throughout his Gospel, of God’s incredible mercy.

Secondly, I encourage you to remain faithful to your Lenten practices of penance and prayer during Holy Week. Also, ask yourself the question: Why not continue these practices of prayer and penance throughout

the year?

Personally, I find that fasting creates more space in my life for God. For me, limiting the amount of food and the types of food I eat is not only good for my spiritual life, but my physical health as well.

I also discover giving God more time in prayer actually makes me more productive in work, even though I have fewer hours to devote to my labors.

Decide this week which Lenten practices you wish to continue, at least on a modified basis, throughout the coming year.

Finally, I urge you to participate in the Triduum liturgies at your parish.

The Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday, the celebration of the Lord’s passion on Good Friday, and the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday night are the most powerful and beautiful liturgies of the year. These liturgies put us in touch with the central mysteries of our Catholic faith. They give God the opportunity to renew and deepen his peace and joy within our hearts.

I also invite you to come to the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kansas, for one or more of the Triduum liturgies.

On Holy Thursday, the Mass of the Lord’s Supper begins at 7:30 p.m. On Good Friday, the liturgy of the celebration of the passion of the Lord begins at 3 p.m. The Easter Vigil begins at 8 p.m. on Holy

CALENDAR

ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN March 18 Staff day of reflection Mass Year of Mercy presentation, eucharistic adoration and Benediction — Holy Trinity, Lenexa March 19 Mass with Sisters of St. Joseph — Olathe March 20 Palm Sunday Mass — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas March 22 Chrism Mass — Savior Pastoral Center

March 26 Easter Vigil — Cathedral March 27 Easter Sunday Mass — Cathedral

ARCHBISHOP KELEHER March 20 Mass — Federal prison camp Confessions — Nativity, Leawood March 21 Prison Mass — Topeka March 24 Mass — Sisters, Servants of Mary

March 24 Wyandotte County priests meeting and lunch

March 25 Good Friday service — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas

Mass of the Lord’s Supper — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas

March 26 Easter Vigil — Curé of Ars, Leawood

March 25 Good Friday service — Cathedral

March 27 Mass — Sisters, Servants of Mary

Saturday. I will also be the celebrant for the 11 a.m.

Palm Sunday Mass, as well as the 11 a.m. Easter Sunday Mass. You are most welcome to come to one or more of these beautiful liturgies.

The cathedral is a church that belongs to the entire archdiocese.

You are always welcome at our beautiful cathedral. The cathedral is also one of the sites of a Holy

Door for the jubilee Year of Mercy. You can come for one of the Holy Week liturgies and also take the opportunity prayerfully to pass through the Holy Door.

Pray over the Passion, persevere in your Lenten practices of prayer and penance, participate in the Triduum liturgies and you will close out Lent like a champion.

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MARCH 18, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

COURT of HONOR

Hayden High School in Topeka named its basketball court after longtime coach Ben Meseke on Feb. 23. During Meseke’s time at Hayden, his teams went to the state tournament 13 times and won six 4A championships, including a perfect season in 1983.

Below, Meseke addresses the crowd at the Feb. 23 ceremony.

Hayden High School honors longtime coach by naming its basketball court after him

LEAVEN PHOTO BY MARC ANDERSON

By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

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OPEKA — Longtime Hayden coach Ben Meseke will forever remember the passionate support his basketball teams received from the student body and the wider Hayden and Topeka community.

“We’d go on the road and you couldn’t tell the home team from the visiting team,” said Meseke, “because there was so much blue!”

But it wasn’t only the team the school was coming out to support.

On Feb. 23, the Hayden Catholic High School community honored Coach Meseke by naming the school’s basketball court in his honor.

During the final home game of the season, Meseke, his wife, children and grandchildren stood at center court during halftime as school officials honored him for his accomplishments. During his tenure as the boys’ basketball coach, the school made 13 state tournament appearances in the Class 4A tournament, claiming six championship titles, including one earned at the end of a perfect season in 1983.

Yet, it was not just on the basketball court that Meseke proved his coaching prowess. During the two decades he spent at Hayden from 1973 to 1997, he also coached the cross-country team. Those teams claimed another six state championship titles.

Adding to his already impressive resume, Meseke also taught mathematics courses, including advanced classes in algebra and geometry, for 23 years. Toward the end of his Hayden career, he served as the assistant principal.

As a result of all the hats he wore, he touched the lives of hundreds, if not thousands, of Hayden students and their families. Although the game fell on a Tuesday night, many of his

former students showed up to express their appreciation to Meseke. At halftime, they were invited to stand behind Meseke and his family. Two who did were BJ McGivern, a 1992

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

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graduate, and Lisa Hockenberry, a 1989 graduate.

McGivern, a member of the 1991 state championship team, said his admiration for Meseke runs deep, and he

appreciates the life lessons Meseke taught him on the basketball court.

“There are several admirable attributes Coach Meseke demonstrated for our team.

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

The demand for discipline from us and his efficient coaching style and the preparation he put forth were obviously components of a winning formula,” said McGivern said. “We were always so scripted and worked on fundamentals daily.”

While Hockenberry didn’t play for Meseke, she was in one of his algebra classes. Yet, that’s not what she remembers most about Meseke. It was his school spirit and his appreciation of every single student and their contributions to the basketball team’s success.

Hockenberry played saxophone in the pep band. She recalled with pleasure the appreciation Meseke always showed to the band, the student body and the fans, making them feel as if the championship belonged to them just as much as it did to the team.

“Every year, we would start the first basketball pep assembly by marching up and down the hallways, playing the Hayden fight song,” she said. “He always said that we helped school spirit and that we were the sixth man of the team, getting everyone pumped up.”

During the halftime ceremony, Meseke mentioned the student body and fans in his remarks.

“There were games we had to lock doors because there were so many here,” said Meseke.

“And you students, this is the No. 1 student body in the whole state — the most passionate and energetic of student bodies.”

Before the game, Meseke said the honor was both overwhelming and humbling.

“I coached basketball and I worked with kids. I had fun,” he said simply, adding he enjoyed each moment he ever spent at the high school. And although he’s been away from the school for 19 years, his heart will always be there.

“My blood runs blue totally,” said Meseke.

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

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Students enjoy ‘priceless’ peek at religious life

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

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ANSAS CITY, Kan. — On Feb. 11, high schoolers from around the archdiocese embarked on a four-day journey, visiting places most people never see in a lifetime.

No, the visits weren’t to the Grand Canyon or to the Cliffs of Moher. Instead, the students visited places boasting a different sort of beauty — the homes of the various religious orders spread across northeast Kansas.

The trip was designed for young people discerning religious life, as well as those open to learning more about it.

“So often, young people don’t even realize that they should be open to the possibility of religious life, because they don’t have many experiences with religious men and women,” said Father Scott Wallisch, vocations director for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.

“Other times, young people do want to be open to God’s will, but religious life seems like a theoretical thing that is hard to imagine,” he continued.

Trips like this help young people bridge the gap between what they think religious life involves and what it actually entails.

Father Wallisch accompanied the young men on their visits, while Stacey Rains, youth ministry director at St. Paul Parish in Olathe, accompanied the young women.

“I think it was life-changing for the girls,” said Rains.

“They were able to see a group of women who have given their lives to serve God,” she said. “And that example is priceless.”

The young women visited the Apostles of the Interior Life in Lawrence and the Sisters, Servants of Mary; the Poor of Jesus Christ; and the Little Sisters of the Lamb, all in Kansas City, Kansas.

“It was absolutely phenomenal,” said Cecilia Grove, a senior at Olathe Northwest High School and a St. Paul parishioner.

Young women from the archdiocese pose for a picture with the Little Sisters of the Lamb in Kansas City, Kansas, on a visit to their convent. This was one of four stops on a vocations “run,” which allowed the high school students to take a look at life in several different religious orders.

“To see women who so completely live the Gospel is so inspiring, not only for vocational discernment, but also for overall education of one’s spiritual life,” she said.

The young men visited the Little Brothers of the Lamb and the Poor of Jesus Christ, both in Kansas City, Kansas; the Apostles of the Interior Life in Overland Park; and the monks at St. Benedict’s Abbey in Atchison.

“It was a great way to be able to see how the Holy Spirit works and how he calls different people to different things,” said Justin King, a senior at Olathe North High School.

King noted how helpful it was to compare the orders so quickly and acquire a better understanding of their unique lifestyles.

“It’s one thing to be able to Google facts about different communities or to be able to watch vocation videos,” said King. “It’s completely different being

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“IT WAS A GREAT WAY TO BE ABLE TO SEE HOW THE HOLY SPIRIT WORKS AND HOW HE CALLS DIFFERENT PEOPLE TO DIFFERENT THINGS.” Justin King, Olathe North High School senior able to look at a Benedictine monk’s schedule than to actually wake up at 6 a.m. and go pray with him.”

One of Grove’s most enlightening moments was when she accompanied a couple of the Sisters, Servants of Mary

on a visit to a woman with muscular dystrophy.

“The Sisters go there every day and night to help the woman and help her aging mother, who’s also her caretaker, as well as pray with her,” said Grove.

“I was so struck by the absolute joy that the woman with muscular dystrophy radiated and the complete self-gift of the Sisters to those to whom they were ministering,” she continued.

Another benefit for both groups of participants was the opportunity to take a step forward in their discernment process with other young people.

“Just being able to bond with [the other participants] and meet new people, and to be able to bond with the people that went with me was probably my highlight,” said King.

Grove agreed.

“It was such a blessing to be surrounded by women who are, at the very least, open to whatever Jesus asks them to do,” she said. “I think . . . that discernment sometimes can feel quite lonely.”

“It can be a little bit scary to just go by yourself to visit a religious community,” said King. “So this is a great way to do it within your own archdiocese. . . . It’s a lot less stressful because less of the focus is on you.”

Although most of the trip’s attendants are uncertain of what their future holds, Rains noted that the trips made connections for future opportunities with the Sisters and Brothers they visited.

“For high schoolers, even if they aren’t called to religious life, they can recognize it as an option,” she said, “because they’re beginning to think about their future.”

Rains and Father Wallisch are confident the participants learned lessons from this experience that will carry over to the rest of their lives, regardless of what path they end up taking.

“I hope that they were able to see that living out God’s call for their lives, no matter how radical that call seems to the rest of society, is the surest path to joy,” said Father Wallisch.

Archbishop talks religious liberty with Benedictine seniors

By Eileen Wittig Special to The Leaven

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TCHISON — Every year, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann travels to Benedictine College here to speak to the graduating theology and philosophy majors, to encourage them in the work they will be doing when they leave college and enter the working world.

The archbishop made his annual visit to campus on March 1 and took the opportunity to address the students on a pressing issue they will be encountering after graduation — religious liberty.

“Last week,” said Archbishop Naumann, “we held a rally for religious freedom in Topeka. Why did we have the rally? People are asleep to what is happening in our country regarding religious liberty and the ramifications of it.

“We have the freedom to worship.

In the United States, this means something special. It means we have the ability to live our faith in every dimension of our lives. We cannot let that right diminish or be contracted into

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“WE LOVE, WE PRAY, WE DON’T DESPAIR.” Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann something less.”

For example, said the Archbishop Naumann, consider the case of the Little Sisters of the Poor, a court case that is currently before the Supreme Court.

Oral arguments begin March 23.

The Little Sisters are arguing for religious exemption from offering contraceptive- and abortifacient-included insurance to their employees.

Before Justice Antonin Scalia died on Feb. 13, there was a fairly good chance that the Supreme Court would vote 5-4 in favor of the Little Sisters, said the archbishop.

But the death of Justice Scalia makes a positive ruling by the Supreme Court in favor of the Little Sisters of the Poor appear at best precarious, and more likely grim, he told the students.

“Catholics should be very interested in his replacement, especially since the court has been inserting itself into political areas beyond the judiciary and now determines public policy rather than simply determining whether a case ruling upholds the Constitution or not, as it was created to do.”

If the Little Sisters lose their case, the consequences would hit our own Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.

“The insurance of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas has currently been grandfathered and is maintained as it was before Obamacare, but that will not last forever,” said Archbishop Naumann.

“Eventually, the issues now facing the Little Sisters of the Poor will directly affect the archdiocese,” he continued. “This is creating a potentially perilous situation: to avoid supporting abortifacients and contraception, Catholics may stop offering insurance at all, which the government may want.

It would force all employees into the national insurance.”

The goal of the government on issues of same-sex marriage, said Archbishop Naumann, is to force the Catholic Church to say that it is

acceptable. Refusal to do so could result in a loss of scholarship funds at places such as Benedictine College, essentially saying, “You cannot use government money to go to any Catholic school, because they teach hate.”

Archbishop Naumann pointed out that the church does not teach against people with same-sex attraction.

Rather, it teaches against same-sex activity.

“The church teaches that the dignity of every person is not in question.

Behavior is,” he said. “By definition, same-sex relations are about activity and behavior.”

After the archbishop’s talk, a student asked how they could fight this perception the world has of them as “haters.”

Archbishop Naumann said the answer is simple: love.

“We love, we pray, we don’t despair,” said the archbishop. “Culture is changed one person at a time. John Paul II said we must engage the culture.

“We will do that, and we will turn the culture one person at a time.”

MARCH 18, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

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RUN AND FUN

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PHOTOS BY LORI WOOD HABIGER

he annual Runnin’ Revs versus the Serra All-Stars game at Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park was a mixture of athleticism and comedy. While the basketball action was good,

the game never took itself too seriously as some questionable refereeing made for a close game, eventually won by the Runnin’ Revs 58-53.

s GOOD CHEER

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Bishop Miege cheerleaders Evie McArthur, left, Emily Brady and Lena Kilfoyle lend their talents to cheering on the Runnin’ Revs. Another set of Miege cheerleaders rooted for the All-Stars.

BAND AID

Members of the Bishop Miege band try to distract Serra AllStar Wesley Rupp, of Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood, at the free-throw line. Pictured band members are senior Nolan Gray, left, junior Patrick Fontaine, freshman Chris Hovis, sophomore John Langer (hidden), and freshman Mark Patterson.

t HOOP DREAMS

Father Matthew Nagel goes strong to the hoop against two Serra All-Star defenders in the fourth quarter. The Revs survived a furious comeback by the All-Stars to capture the win.

s FAST BREAK

Father Nathan Miller, LC, pushes the ball up the court looking for some quick points in transition as Serra AllStar Tom Downey, from Holy Cross Parish in Overland Park, gives pursuit.

MARCH 18, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

HOLY WEEK

With Archbishop Naumann at the Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas

Palm Sunday

Holy Thursday

Good Friday

Easter Vigil

Easter Sunday

March 20 at 11 a.m.

March 24 at 7:30 p.m.

March 25 at 3 p.m.

March 26 at 8 p.m.

March 27 at 11 a.m.

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MARCH 18, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Final event puts Miege diver on top

WEB EXCLUSIVE

>> Continued from page 16 After the diving preliminaries on Thursday night, he was behind by a significant margin.

And on Friday morning, he called his mother from the meet in Topeka.

She could tell his confidence was low.

CHURCH OF THE WEEK

Down to the wire “He knew he was behind,” said Teresa. “The kids that were with him were the swim team, so they were doing their preliminaries.

“So he was up in the stands all by himself.”

But fellow Miegians came to his rescue.

“My mom texted me pictures,” said Jacob. “They were of my friends and teachers at Miege holding signs saying, ‘Go, Jacob! You’ve got this.’

“That really did pull me up.”

Jacob improved his standings on Friday, but was still down 15 points going into the finals on Saturday.

His last two dives put him over the top.

“One that was difficult for him was his second-to-last dive,” said Menegay.

“That was a reverse one-and-a-half tuck.

“You’re going forward and you have to come back toward the board in the air.

“It’s very hard to do and, two weeks ago, he still had kind of a mental block

KNIGHTS ANNOUNCE STATUE OF CHRIST

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St. Vincent de Paul, Onaga Address: 308 E. 3rd St., 66521 Phone: (785) 889-4896 Parochial Administrator: Father Mariadas Sesetti, MSFS Mass Time: Sunday at 10 a.m.

Website: http://3catholicparishkck. com

Video

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD

Miege swimming coach Dennis Mueller (left) listens as diver Jacob Stockton talks over his preliminary scores with his diving coach Kerry Menegay. around that dive, and he got through it.”

After Jacob’s final dive, the inward double somersault, he knew he’d done well, but still wasn’t sure he’d won the gold.

His mother remembers him coming up to her and asking, “Do you think I did it?”

“I said, ‘I think you’re right in there.

But whatever you get, you be proud,’” said Teresa.

Then Jacob went over to shake the

he Kansas Knights of Columbus are initiating an exciting new undertaking in conjunction with Pope Francis’ declaration of 2016 as the Year of Mercy.

The Kansas Knights, with the support and encouragement of our bishops, will erect a statue of Jesus on a conspicuous site along Interstate 70 in the Flint Hills. The statue will be called “Christ of the Plains” and will be in place by the end of 2017.

The year 2017 marks the 475th anniversary of the martyrdom in Quivira (now Kansas) of Father Juan Padilla. Father Padilla, known as the protomartyr of the United States, accompanied the expedition of Spanish explorer Francisco Vasquez de Coronado to bring Christianity to the natives. Along the way, he erected wooden crosses to commemorate feast days and for special thanks. Had he been able to raise statues, he would have.

In 1950, the Kansas Knights of Columbus erected a 28-foot granite cross on Kansas Highway 96 west of Lyons, near the site of one of Father Padilla’s crosses.

According to state deputy Pat Winchester, the “Christ of the Plains” statue will signal to millions of travelers that the United States was founded on Christian principles, will witness that Kansas is a Christian state and will remind all who pass that Christ is the focus of our lives. The state council has distributed a letter, brochure and two cards to all Knights of Columbus members in Kansas for donations to help fulfill the vision of Father Padilla and the work begun by Kansas Knights in 1950.

Knights are encouraged to remit their tax-deductible contribution for “Christ of the Plains” with one gift card by April 15. The other donation card can be passed on to a friend, relative or like-minded Christian.

Others who would like to contribute to help make this spiritual act of mercy possible can clip the coupon and mail a check payable to the K of C Charities Aid Foundation to the address on the coupon. For additional information, go online to: www.christoftheplains.info.

hand of one of his most ardent supporters, Miege principal Randy Salisbury.

“And while I was shaking his hand,” said Jacob, “one of the swimmers came up and told me, ‘Jacob, the KC Star wants to interview you.’

“But then, just for confirmation, I asked him, ‘I won?’ and he said, ‘Yes, you won!’

“And then my coach texted me and said, ‘You did it, buddy. I’m proud of you!’”

A video tour of this church is available online at: www.theleaven.org.

More photos of this church can be seen online at: www.theleaven.org.

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24 HOURS for the LORD

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By Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org ight institutions in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas kept their doors open to the faithful for 24 hours straight recently in answer to Pope Francis’ call to all Catholics to come encounter Jesus Christ through reflection, prayer and penance.

This 24 Hours for the Lord focused on the exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, but offered so much more. Among the 24-hour offerings were the sacrament of reconciliation, Stations of the Cross, the chaplet of Divine Mercy, vespers, the rosary, reflections and prayer.

“I think the lasting effect of our 24 Hours for the Lord . . . will be that we will see every day of our lives as being 24 hours for the Lord,” said Msgr. Michael Mullen, pastor of St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, in his homily the weekend of March 4-5. St. Patrick served as the Kansas City, Kansas, host church.

“We can look at every day — at home, at work, at school, in all our most ordinary ac-

tivities — as being a time when we can be aware of God’s presence and offer all we do to him,” said Msgr. Mullen.

Archdiocesan liturgist Michael Podrebarac, who helped organize the 24 Hours for the Lord, said that he has heard nothing but good things about the experience.

“I spent the overnight hours in Emporia at the Didde Center, and there were several people there all night — some even came back after leaving for a break,” he said.

Podrebarac said pulling off a 24-hour event presented some challenges, such as making sure there was adequate security, having someone scheduled to pray before the Eucharist at all times, scheduling confessors and encouraging the host parishes to provide opportunities for communal prayer and devotion.

“I take my hat off to each host pastor and his respective preparation teams,” Podrebarac said. “Everybody really came through and did an excellent job.”

Podrebarac said many dioceses chose to host the 24 Hours for the Lord at their cathedral or special shrine.

“The fact that we had a church in each of the eight regions of the archdiocese committed to this speaks volumes about who we are and how we treat our faith,” he said.

“I know of no other diocese that scheduled as many churches as we did,” he said. “This is one of many reasons I am proud to call northeast Kansas home.”

Eight-week-old Katalina McGuffin listens to her grandmother Angie McGuffin, left, and gr March 5 at Most Pure Heart of Mary Church in Topeka.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY FERNANDO UGARTE

From left, Michelle Olberding, Nate Deters and Roland Voracek, eighth-graders at Sts. Peter and Paul School in Seneca, help kick off the 24 Hours for the Lord by assisting Father Arul Carasala, pastor of Sts. Peter and Paul Parish, with the Stations of the Cross.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY DO

Robyn Hornstein gives a presentation on Divine Mercy at St. Joseph Church in Shawnee, a of the church’s 24 Hours for the Lord event on March 4. Eucharistic adoration, confession an tions of the Cross were also offered.

Chase Johnson, left, and Father Nick Blaha kneel before the Blessed Sacrament during Benediction at the Didde Catholic Campus Center at Emporia State University. Benediction ended the center’s 24 Hours for the Lord celebration.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY MARC ANDERSON

LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER

The exposition of the Blessed Sacrament was one focus of the 24 Hours for the Lord initiative. St. Patrick Church in Kansas City, Kansas, was one of eight churches in the archdiocese that kept its doors open for 24 hours.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

reat-grandmother Judy McGuffin pray the rosary

OUG HESSE

as part nd Sta-

LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER

Students at Church of the Nativity School in Leawood perform a dramatic presentation of the Passion as part of the parish’s 24 Hours for the Lord event the evening of March 4. Pictured are, from left, girls on step: Caroline Braun, Anna Hamilton, Jillian Vervynck, Darby Koetting, Paige Hunter and Mary Elizabeth Crossland. In the back row are: Leger Taylor, Tim Theisen, Matthew Crossland, John Siebes (portraying Jesus) and Tommy Hall.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE MCSORLEY

LEAVEN PHOTO BY DIANA LUPPENS

Sister Josephine Plazzer, an Apostle of the Interior Life, gives a meditation on prayer at the St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center at the University of Kansas on March 5.

Brother Benedict Geist, OSB, prays compline at St. Benedict’s Abbey in Atchison on March 4. Compline is the final church service (or office) of the day in the Liturgy of the Hours.

LOCAL NEWS

MARCH 18, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

10

Mater Dei’s Irish Fest keeps parade-goers downtown

By Carolyn Kaberline Special to The Leaven

T

OPEKA — The day may have been cloudy and cool, but that didn’t stop the celebration. In fact, the sounds and sights of Irish Fest were everywhere March 12 — from the Mater Dei School drumline’s rendition of “Rock On” and “Boom Boom” to the delighted squeals of children as they picked up candy thrown by parade participants. This year’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration had something for everyone.

And, of course, there was plenty of green to be seen.

Now in its fifth year, the first Irish Fest was born “a little bit out of necessity” said Brandon Eakes, this year’s Irish Fest chairman.

“A few friends from Mater Dei Parish had attended [Topeka’s St. Patrick Day] parade together in 2011 and, after a failed attempt to get a table at one of the local eateries, left downtown to seek other options, as did many of the other parade-goers,” said Eakes.

“Over a pint, we discussed the opportunity to create an event that would encourage people to stay downtown after the parade,” he said. “We also saw this as an opportunity to close the gap between two former parishes (Assumption and Holy Name) that had recently merged to become one. This would be our first event that was original to our new parish.”

Although 2012 marked the 33rd anniversary of the St. Patrick Day parade, there was no actual Irish Fest up to then.

“A women’s group at the former Assumption Parish had long held an Irish stew dinner in the basement of the church after Mass, which had historically been held near midday or just before the start of the parade,” said Eakes.

“Initially, our desire was to utilize the former school playground adjacent to the church to offer a safe and familyfriendly environment where patrons could enjoy a traditional St. Patrick’s Day libation and possibly a quick bite

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE MCSORLEY

Now in its fifth year, Mater Dei Parish’s Irish Fest has grown big enough to include a second stage, where the Kansas Territorial Pipes and Drums group, pictured above, played. Other acts included traditional Irish music, as well as “bluegrass with an Irish twist.” to eat,” he continued. “One thing led to another, and we soon realized we had a hit on our hands.”

And what a hit it has become. This year, Topeka Mayor Larry Wolgast even proclaimed Eighth Street between Kansas Avenue and Harrison Street — the site of most of the day’s festivities — be renamed St. Patrick’s Square in honor of Irish Fest this year.

The day’s activities began with Mass at 7:30 a.m. followed by an Irish singalong in the church. Next came a 5K fun run and a one-mile walk. Added to the day’s activities in 2013, this run has developed into one of the largest in the city, with some 575 entrants in this year’s event.

Other activities for the day included a carnival for kids, an opportunity to taste several Irish whiskeys and a chance to sample some Irish foods.

With the addition of a second stage this year, attendees could also listen to the Kansas Territorial Pipes and Drums, as well as the traditional Irish music of Fraoch, the contemporary

Irish music of the Kelihans, and The Donkey Show, which presented “bluegrass with an Irish twist.”

The Driscoll School of Irish Dancers also entertained the crowd with traditional Irish dance steps.

“Members of our Irish Fest committee attend various festivals each year, including the Kansas City Irish Fest in September, and we also check out bands that perform at various venues here in Topeka,” said Mary Tritsch. “If we think people who attend Irish Fest will enjoy their music, we work to get them here.”

In addition to the events sponsored

by Mater Dei, the Great Topeka Bed Race, a fundraiser for Housing and Credit Counseling, Inc., takes place as part of Irish Fest activities.

“We like to think that all the activities that take place downtown on St. Patrick’s Day or the designated celebration day are part of one big Irish Fest that encourages people to come downtown, have fun and celebrate together,” said Tritsch.

Of course, no celebration of St. Patrick’s Day would be complete without the St. Patrick’s Day parade. Led by Mater Dei pastor Father John Pilcher, flanked by fourth-degree Knights of Columbus Jack Figgs and Doug Martinek, the parade included floats sponsored by families, businesses and several nonprofit organizations.

With proceeds from the Irish Fest benefiting Mater Dei Parish and those from the 5K fun run benefiting the school, the annual event has become an important fundraiser for both.

“The Irish Fest Fun Run has become an important source of funding for our school, and we use the proceeds to make our academic programs even stronger,” said Andrea Hillebert, Mater Dei School principal.

“For our parish, Irish Fest is an important fundraiser that allows us to meet our mission in downtown Topeka,” she added. “It is also a wonderful opportunity to invite the whole city to this community event.”

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LOCAL NEWS

MARCH 18, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

11

Community of the Lamb to offer Holy Week retreat

K

Tirso Torres processes to the altar with his blanket, which will be among 22 donated to children at Providence Medical Center.

‘Everyone can connect with their blanket’ >> Continued from page 1 “This was our first time [making blankets],” said Aidien Gardner, one of Strenk’s kindergartners. “Some of us didn’t know how to do it, so we just prayed.”

“And then other people [who had trouble at first] learned how to make them because we kept trying and trying,” said Elijah.

Father Mark Mertes, pastor at Christ the King, saw this as a unique opportunity for the kids, who attend a school that offers a variety of service projects each year.

“We’ve had lots of excellent service projects here at Christ the King,” said Father Mertes, “but for the kindergarten class to put this one together is just plain fun. Everyone can connect with their blanket!”

“I got to watch them bring up their blankets during the offertory procession,” he continued, “and they registered many different emotions as they

came forward — sort of like life.”

For the students, making the blankets was just as fun as walking them down the aisle at Mass. Throughout the process, they joyfully sang prayers for the children who would soon receive their gifts.

“We were praying for the kids to get better,” said Elijah.

“That kind of brought a community aspect into the classroom,” said Strenk.

“And they had a lot of fun while they did it. It was just an enjoyable experience.”

“It made me feel great,” said Brooklynn Meisenzahl, another one of Strenk’s kindergartners.

Brooklynn and her classmates were excited to bring comfort to other kids who don’t have the chance to go to school every day.

“I hope it helps them feel better,” said Mi’Nia. “And I hope it helps them feel happy,” added Aidien.

“Children intuitively understand

that when one of us is hurting and in need, all of us are hurting and in need,” said Father Mertes. “I imagine that is why Jesus says we should be like children.”

Both Father Mertes and Strenk noted that we are never too young to serve. Strenk even hopes the lessons the children learned from this project will stick with them throughout their lives.

“I really try to instill in them service, and giving without having to receive something,” she said.

“I think our blankets are going to bring a lot of comfort to people,” she later continued, noting how pleased she is with her class. “[The kids] knew that they were giving back and helping people,” she said. “They understood the act of service, and what we were doing got bigger than what I expected and what we had planned for.

“I am very proud of what they did.”

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ANSAS CITY, Kan. — The Community of the Lamb here, located at 36 S. Boeke St., invites everyone to join them in the celebration of Holy Week. The liturgy is conceived as a retreat in which participants are invited to follow Jesus step by step in his passion, death and resurrection.

The schedule is as follows: March 18 11:30 a.m. — Mass of the Good Shepherd; 7:30 - 9 p.m. — First Office of the Anointing at Bethany March 19 7 - 8:30 a.m. — Second Office of the Anointing at Bethany; 2:30 – 4:45 p.m. — First Office of the Palms with blessing of the Palms; 8:30 - 10:45 p.m. — Second Office of the Palms Palm Sunday, March 20 10:30 - 11:45 a.m. — Third Office of the Palms; 6 - 8:50 p.m. — Office of the Palms and Mass of the Passion March 21 10 a.m. — Eucharist of the Preparation of the Passover March 22 8 – 9 a.m. — First Office of the Poor Widow; 6 – 8:20 p.m. — Second Office of the Poor Widow March 23 11 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. — Jesus Weeps over Jerusalem — Second Lamentation 7:30 – 9:15 p.m.: The Commandment of Love — Washing of the Feet Holy Thursday, March 24 7:30 - 8:45 a.m. — Monastic Office 11:30 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. — Feast of the Church; 6 – 8:30 p.m. — The Lord’s Supper; 10:30 p.m. – 12:50 a.m.

— Entering Gethsemane; Approximately 1:20 – 2:50 a.m. — The Arrest of Jesus Good Friday, March 25 10 – 11 a.m. — The Trial of Jesus; 11:15 a.m. - 3 p.m. — The Crucifixion ; 3:45 - 5:30 p.m. — Celebration of the Cross; 6:30 – 9 p.m. — The Burial of Jesus Holy Saturday, March 26 6:30 – 9 a.m. — The Descent of Jesus into Hades; 11:30 p.m. – 4 a.m.

— Easter Vigil Easter Sunday, March 27 5:30 – 7:30 a.m. — Office of the Resurrection; 11 a.m. — Easter Mass; 5:30 p.m. — Second Vespers For more information, call (913) 621-1727.

1615 North Street, Seneca, KS 66538 Just a few miles away from St. Mary Church in St. Benedict, Kansas Pilgrimage Rate of $85.99 for 2 adults www.altenhofeninn.com Please mention this add to receive special rate

CLASSIFIEDS EMPLOYMENT 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.

Nativity House KC, Inc., seeks mentors - We are searching for women who want to serve pregnant homeless women in a home setting, with a faith-based environment. The position entails teaching these mothers how to run a home, how to budget, parenting skills, healthy nutrition, offer support during birth and drive them to appointments in house vehicles. This is an ideal position for retired social workers, teachers and OB nurses.

Part time, full time on all shifts. Send an email to: barbarab@ nativityhousekc.org with two references and a resume prior to interview. Compensation hourly based on shift and experience.

American Sign Language teacher - St. James Academy is seeking a faith-filled American Sign Language teacher for the 2016-2017 school year. The ideal candidate would be a practicing Catholic as well as an experienced and certified teacher with a thorough understanding of ASL and deaf culture.

Interested candidates should apply with the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas at: www.archkck.org/schools/2015/ schools7-teacher-application-page. Resumes and cover letters can be sent to principal Karla Leibham at: kleibham@sjakeep ingfaith.org.

Drivers - Special Beginnings Early Learning Center is seeking part-time drivers for its school-age program located in Lenexa.

Candidates must be able to drive a 13-passenger minibus, similar to a 15-passenger van. CDL not required, but must have an excellent driving record. Candidates would pick up children from area schools and then work directly with them when arriving back at the center. Experience preferred. Must have strong work ethic and the ability to work with children. Insurance provided.

Background check will be conducted. Great opportunity for retired persons or those seeking a second job. Job responsibilities include: ensuring safety and well-being of children who are being transported at all times, including loading and unloading. Driving short, round-trip routes to elementary schools in Lenexa/Olathe area. Summer only: Driving short, round- trip routes to two Lenexa city pools. Maintaining mileage log. Keeping interior of vehicle clean. Apply by sending an email to chris@ specialbeginningsonline.com or in person at 10216 Pflumm Rd., Lenexa, KS 66215.

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.

High school principal - St. Michael the Archangel High School (SMAHS) is scheduled to open in the fall of 2017. The principal position will be open July 1, 2016. During the 2016-2017 school year, the principal will establish and implement a plan to transition students, faculty and staff from Archbishop O’Hara High School to SMAHS. With the 2017-2018 school year, the principal will have full responsibility for all operations, academics and programs at SMAHS. This position is full time and includes benefits, paid time off and a retirement plan. To see the full job description or to apply, go online to: app.hireology.com/s/111348.

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 schoolage 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.

Commercial and residential painters - Must have experience in commercial and residential painting. Candidates must be: hardworking, safety-oriented, reliable, career minded, goal oriented, a self-starter, able to lift 50 pounds, able to work 40 hours and with minimum supervision. Candidates must pass a drug test, have a valid driver’s license and have reliable transportation. The position is available immediately. Reply with resume, work experience, references and contact information. Pay will be based on experience and capability. Send resumes to Heath Cole at: ColePaintingContractor@yahoo.com.

Youth minister - Divine Mercy Parish in Gardner is looking for an enthusiastic and faithful individual to lead our high school ministry program. Responsibilities include coordinating all areas of 9 - 12th grade youth ministry. The applicant must be a practicing Catholic in good standing. The applicant must be an independent worker with excellent planning and organization skills. Team building experience and communication skills are a must. Also required is working a flexible schedule that includes some nights and weekends. Send cover letter and resume to: secretary@divinemercyks.org.

MARCH 18, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG Preschool/child care - John Paul II Preschool/Child Care is seeking school-age staff to work from 2:30 - 6 p.m., M-F, with additional hours available in the summer. Substitute caregivers are also needed. Contact Donna at: dhogue@archkckcs.org.

English and Spanish teachers - Bishop Miege High School has teacher openings for English and Spanish for the 2016 - 2017 school year. Send letter of interest and resume to Mariann Jaksa at: mjaksa@bishopmiege.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. 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.

Seeking full-time teacher with special education credentials - St. James Academy is seeking a faith-filled, certified special education teacher for the 2016-2017 school year. The ideal candidate would be a practicing Catholic with current knowledge and experience in special education who is excited to help build upon a growing program rooted in a Catholic worldview. Interested candidates should apply with the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas at: www.archkck.org/schools/2015/ schools7-teacher-application-page. Resumes and cover letters can be sent to principal Karla Leibham at: kleibham@sjakeeping faith.org.

Career Opportunity - Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding a financial representative in the Kansas City metro, Atchison and Topeka area. Ideal for a determined, high energy, high expectation, professional, self-disciplined, independent individual desiring to serve others, yet earn a better than average income. We provide top-rated financial products to our members and their families and will provide excellent benefits and training. Please contact John A. Mahon, general agent, for more information or an interview at 1275 Topeka Blvd.., Topeka, KS 66612 or call (785) 408-8806. You can also send an email to: john.mahon@kofc.org.

Healing Assistance Coordinator - The office of child and youth protection (OCYP) for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking an individual to fill a new part-time position, healing assistance coordinator. This position is responsible for providing support to and identifying resources for victims and their families in cases of sexual abuse by clergy or other archdiocesan personnel. This individual will manage treatment referrals and resources for individuals and families affected and foster reconciliation between the church and these individuals. In their role as a staff member of the OCYP, the position works closely with the director of the OCYP, the vicar for clergy and the report investigator. Minimum qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in social work or a closely related field, and/or experience related to victim support; intermediate competency in MS Office Suite; and must be a practicing Catholic in good standing. A complete job description, application and benefits information are available on the archdiocese’s website at: www.archkck.org/jobs. Interested individuals should mail cover letter, resume, application

by March 18 to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, Healing Assistance Coordinator, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, or send via email to: jobs@ archkck.org.

Administrative assistant - The Catholic Foundation for Northeast Kansas (CFNEK) is seeking an experienced part-time administrative assistant. This position provides general office support to CFNEK staff members; performs receptionist duties; and provides assistance with board member communications and meeting preparations. Must have associate’s or bachelor’s degree and excellent MS Office Suite competencies. A complete job description and application are available on the Archdiocese’s Web site at: www.archkck.org/jobs. Interested individuals should mail cover letter, resume, application by March 18, 2016 to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, Admin Assistant - CFNEK, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, or send via e-mail to: jobs@archkck.org.

SERVICES 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 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.

Summer tutoring - available for K-12 and homeschooler in music and academics. For more information, call/text Kathleen at (913) 206-2151 or email: klmamuric@yahoo.com.

Rodman Lawn Care Lawn mowing, aeration, verticutting.

Hedge trimming, mulch, leaf removal.

Fully insured and free estimates.

John Rodman (913) 548-3002 Machine quilting - by Jenell Noeth, Basehor. Also quilts made to order. Call (913) 724-1837.

Faith-based counseling to cope with life concerns - Kansas City area. Call Mary Vorsten, licensed clinical professional counselor at (913) 909-2002.

12

Summer tutor/nanny – Archdiocesan elementary teacher available for summer tutor or nanny opportunities. References available upon request. If your family needs help this summer, call or text Lisa at (913) 461-7481 or send an email to: lmsull09@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.

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.tuftstreeservice@gmail.com. Call Chris at (785) 218-1531.

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.

Complete plumbing and bath - Master plumber; toilets, faucets, sump pumps, repairs and new installation. Bath remodeling, tile work and painting. Member of Ascension Parish. Call Mike at (913) 488-4930.

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.

Housecleaning - A range of services provided from housekeeping to organizing closets, rooms and garages, as well as hoarder projects. 15 years of experience. Professional, energetic and dependable. Call Joni at (913) 206-4403.

American Janitorial LLC - Insured, family owned for over 20 years. Specializing in office buildings with 10,000 to 30,000 square feet of cleaning space. Call John at (913) 575- 2686.

Garage door and opener sales and service - 24-hour, 7-daya-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.

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.

American Girl doll Communion dresses - First Communion dress sets for 18” or American Girl dolls. Includes dress, veil, shoes, tights and cross necklace. Full line of doll clothes and accessories in south Johnson County. Call Patty at (913) 3459498.

HOME IMPROVEMENT 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 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 onsite.

Items hauled for recycling and donations. 20 years exp.; insured.

Call Tillar at (913) 375-9115. WWW.SWALMSORGANIZING.COM. 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 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) 9274118.

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.

Kansas City’s Premier Deck, Fence & Concrete - We repair, power wash and stain wood decks and fences. We power wash and seal concrete drives, walkways, pool decks and more. Call Brian at (913) 952-5965; Holy Trinity parishioner.

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: smokey cabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.

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 HARCO Exteriors LLC Your Kansas City fencing specialists Family owned and operated (913) 815-4817 www.harcoexteriorsllc.com House painting Interior and exterior; wallpaper removal.

Power washing, fences, decks.

30 years experience. References. Reasonable rates.

Call Joe at (913) 620-5776.

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 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.

CAREGIVING Personalized care - Experienced, specializing in dementia, medication setup and activities of daily living. Excellent references. Contact Andrea at (913)548-1930.

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.

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.

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 - At Resurrection Cemetery, two easements in mausoleum. Contact A. Kelly at (913) 649-9691.

For sale - Mausoleum tandem burial crypt. Resurrection Cemetery, Lenexa; Queen of Peace Mausoleum, corridor C, tier E, crypt 107. Open and closing fee included. $11,360 market price; sale price $8,500. Call (732) 221-2678 or (913) 897-1862.

For sale - Mount Calvary Mausoleum Crypt, single space with Abbey that can accommodate two interments. Prime location. Mausoleum nearly sold out. Contact Ramona at (913) 548-2007.

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 Miitary 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 - 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.

VACATION Colorado vacation - Granby, Winter Park, 2 BR, kitchen, sleeps six. Pet OK. www.inn@silvercreek.com. June 25 - July 2. July 2 - July 9. $600 per week. Call (913) 649-7596.

MARCH 18, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CALENDAR BREAKFAST WITH THE EASTER BUNNY The Strawberry Hill Museum 720 N. 4th St., Kansas City, Kansas March 19 from 8 - 11 a.m.

PASSION SUNDAY TENEBRAE SERVICE Cathedral of St. Peter 409 N. 15th St., Kansas City, Kansas March 20 at 7 p.m.

ST. JOSEPH DAY CELEBRATION St. Thomas More Church 11800 Holmes Rd., Kansas City, Missouri March 19 from 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

DECLUTTERING TIPS FOR BABY BOOMERS Keeler Women’s Center 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kansas March 21 from 1:30 - 3 p.m.

Kid and adults can visit with the Easter Bunny for free, or have their picture taken for $5. Breakfast is $6 for adults; $5 for kids ages 10 to 4; and free for kids 3 and under. For more information, visit the website at: www.strawberryhillmuseum.org.

A freewill donation is requested for a meal of traditional Pasta Milanese, fratata and Italian bread roll that will be served. Items from the main table will be available to purchase. For further information, call Angie DiFidi at (816) 942-5205.

There will be a candlelit service of “darkness,” featuring the Tallis “Lamentation of Jeremiah” and Allegri’s “Miserere mei,” sung by the vocal ensemble Sursum Corda under the direction of Kevin Vogt. Free admission; all are welcome.

The St. Joseph Table will be on display from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dinner will be served from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The cost for dinner will be a freewill donation.

DINNER AND DANCE Queen of the Holy Rosary Church 7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park April 8 at 6 p.m.

The tickets are $20 for dinner, drinks (including wine and beer) and the Kansas City Variety Band. Reservations are required by April 5. For tickets, call Will at (913) 3844644.

Timely tips and hints just in time for spring cleaning will be presented by Chiquita Miller.

DAUGHTERS OF ISABELLA, ST. FAUSTINA CIRCLE MEETING Formation Center 555 W. Main St., Gardner March 21 at 6:60 p.m.

Catholic women over the age of 16 (think mother and daughters) are invited to come for some fun, fellowship and food. The program is: “The Teenage Brain.” For more information, contact regent Mary Ellen Ridgley at (913) 856-6370.

ST. JOSEPH TABLE AND SPAGHETTI DINNER Cathedral of St. Peter 409 N. 15th St., Kansas City, Kansas March 20 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

$420 (room, board and retreat); Thursday through Sunday, $220; or $70 per day for overnight. A $25 deposit will reserve a spot for the retreat. For more information or to register, call (913) 680-2342 or send an email to: schase@scls.org.

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‘AT THE CROSSROADS’: A HOLY WEEK RETREAT Marillac Center 4200 S. 4th St., Leavenworth March 20 - 27

The retreat will be given by Father Joe Nassal, CPPS. The theme of the retreat is the cross as a marker where human beings find themselves at the intersection of justice and mercy. The cost of the full week’s retreat is

EASTER BAKE SALE St. Ann Church 301 William St., Effingham March 26 from 8 a.m. - noon

The St. Ann Altar Society is sponsoring an Easter bake sale of bread, cakes, cookies, pies, homemade noodles and much more.

‘GOSPEL NONVIOLENCE’ Keller Women’s Center 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kansas March 28 from 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.

This study group will be facilitated by Peg Burns, the developer of “Our Golden Thread,” Gospel nonviolence curriculum materials.

CORPUS CHRISTI SCHOOL DONUM FIDEI AUCTION Corpus Christi Church 6001 Bob Billing Pkwy., Lawrence April 16 from 5 - 11:30 p.m.

Join the Corpus Christi community for an evening of celebrating Catholic education. The evening includes dinner, dancing and live and silent auctions. The cost is $125 for individuals and $1,500 for table sponsors (10 seats per table).

The deadline to RSVP is April 1. For more information or to RSVP, call (785) 331-3374 or go to the website at: CCCParish.org.

SUBMITTING CALENDAR ITEMS • List the event • List where the event will take place.

• List the date and time of the event.

Send calendar items to: beth.blankenship@ theleaven.org.

Want to help someone heal from an abortion?

Call Toll Free 888-246-1504

MARCH 18, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY

I was fit, for a bit, to be tied

HOLY WEEK March 20 PALM SUNDAY OF THE PASSION OF THE LORD Lk 19: 28-40 Is 50: 4-7 Ps 22: 8-9, 17-18, 19-20, 23-24 Phil 2: 6-11 Lk 22:14 – 23:56 March 21 Monday of Holy Week Is 42: 1-7 Ps 27: 1-3, 13-14 Jn 12: 1-11 March 22 Tuesday of Holy Week Is 49: 1-6 Ps 71: 1-4a, 5ab-6b, 15, 17 Jn 13: 21-33, 36-38 March 23 Wednesday of Holy Week Is 50: 4-9a Ps 69: 8-10, 21-22, 31, 33-34 Mt 26: 14-25 March 24 HOLY THURSDAY OF THE LORD’S SUPPER Ex 12: 1-8, 11-14 Ps 116: 12-13, 15-16bc, 17-18 1 Cor 11: 23-26 Jn 13: 1-15 March 25 FRIDAY OF THE PASSION OF THE LORD (Good Friday) Is 52:13 – 53:12 Ps 31: 2, 6, 12-13, 15-17, 25 Heb 4: 14-16; 5: 7-9 Jn 18:1 – 19:42 March 26 THE EASTER VIGIL IN THE HOLY NIGHT Gn 1:1 – 2:2 Ex 14:15 – 15:1 Is 55: 1-11 Rom 6: 3-11 Ps 118: 1-2, 16-17, 22-23 Lk 24: 1-12

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14

H

onestly, I thought I’d entered “The Twilight Zone.”

I could almost hear Rod Serling in the background saying, “There is a fifth dimension, beyond that which is known to man. It is a dimension as vast as space and as timeless as infinity. It is the middle ground between light and shadow, between science and superstition, and it lies between the pit of man’s fears and the summit of his knowledge. This is the dimension of imagination. It is an area we call the Twilight Zone.” (Cue the eerie music.)

So, what triggered this? It was something very simple: I lost my Fitbit Charge, one of those step-tracking devices that look like a wristwatch.

My last recollection of it was at 6:31 p.m. on Feb. 22. I’d just checked the time as I headed out of the sacristy to do Benediction to conclude our parish’s Lenten Monday eucharistic adoration. After Benediction, I set up the altar for Mass the next day,

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.

turned out the lights and locked the doors.

I then drove back to the rectory and had supper. Afterwards, I washed my hands in the bathroom. It had become a habit to push my Fitbit higher up my arm before getting my hands wet. Although the device is water resistant, it’s not waterproof, so I was always careful.

This night, I went to push up the Fitbit . . . but it was gone! And that’s when my Twilight Zone began.

I knew that I didn’t take it off to recharge it, but checked the recharging cable anyway.

Nothing. I didn’t panic.

Hey, how far could it have gone? I’d only been to church, then to my car, then home. It would be easy enough to find.

Just to be safe, though, I offered a quick prayer to St. Anthony, reminding him that I’d visited his shrine in Padua a few years ago. (I thought that might guilt him into helping me quickly.)

Wanting to do my part, though, and not leave it all up to St. Anthony, I hauled out the flashlight and began to comb the floors of my duplex. I checked every room, peeked under the bed, chairs and couch. No device. It

must be over at church, I thought. I can just look for it after morning Mass.

I sat down to proofread some Leaven pages, but my mind was so obsessed with the Fitbit that I couldn’t concentrate. I headed over to the parish center and checked the sacristy and its cabinets. Nothing. Flashlight in hand, I looked all around the altar area and the parish center, scoured the hallways and my office.

Nada. I even checked the tabernacle, in case the Fitbit had fallen off when I replaced the Eucharist after Benediction. No luck. I then moved to the parish parking lot and searched diligently but came up empty.

The next morning, I searched the inside of my car, the parking lot and the parish center . . . again. Nothing. I was going to give up when I realized that I hadn’t checked one place: the trash. Armed with gloves, I pawed through the disgusting mess, but only came away with nausea.

I was seriously losing my sanity. Where in the world could that Fitbit

be? Down the garbage disposal? With all the “lost” socks from the dryer? At this point, I told St. Anthony that he was off the hook. I knew he had more important things to find, and I’d just lay my Fitbit to rest.

Now, fast forward to Tuesday, March 8. I’d just loaded the dishwasher and reached into a box under the kitchen sink where the Finish tablets are stored.

Something odd rubbed my hand and I grabbed it. Lo and behold, there was my Fitbit, clutched in my fist. Apparently, as I’d reached into the box a couple of weeks ago, the device had popped off and there it stayed, hanging partially inside and partially outside the Finish box.

After a little happy dance, I breathed a huge prayer of gratitude to St. Anthony for his help in getting my Fitbit — and my sanity — back. Oh me of little faith.

Now, if only the good saint can help me “find” my ideal weight again!

(Cue the eerie music!)

Fight the temptations that take us away from God

G

raduating seniors face many important decisions.

Should they find a full-time job?

Should they join the military? Should they continue on with more education? If so, what school should they choose? Understandably, many seniors agonize over these decisions.

The word “agonize” derives from the Greek word meaning “struggle.” It is essentially the same word as “agony.”

That is how Sunday’s Gospel reading, the passion narrative, describes Jesus’ situation the evening before he died: “He was in such agony and he prayed so fervently that his sweat became like drops of blood falling on the

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.

ground” (Lk 22:14 – 23:56).

Jesus is struggling with his desire to follow God’s will, which will

The Gospel parable of the prodigal son presents the image of God the Father who gives people the gift of freedom, even to make mistakes, Pope Francis said. When it comes to our God-given freedom, “it is up to us to put it to good use. This gift of freedom that God gives us always amazes me,” he said March 7

result in his death, and his natural desire to live: “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; still, not my will but yours be done.”

Because of this struggle, Jesus sweats profusely, so much so that “his sweat became like drops of blood falling on the ground.” Notice that the text does not say that Jesus actually sweated blood.

The comparison to blood foreshadows the sufferings of Jesus the next day, when he will bleed profusely as a result of the scourging and crucifixion.

The copious amounts of sweat might also remind us of an athlete engaged in a competition, who perspires heavily in exerting that tremendous effort to win. But in this case, Jesus is undergoing mental anguish, not physical suffering as an athlete would. That will come the next day.

However, Jesus is not alone in his struggle. He receives help from God: “And to strengthen him an angel from heaven appeared to him.”

In contrast, his disciples have abandoned him. While Jesus was deep in prayer, they have

before reciting the Angelus with visitors gathered in St. Peter’s Square. The day Gospel’s reading of the parable, he said, illustrates the characteristics of God, a father “who is always ready to forgive and who hopes against all hope.” Even as his son leaves with half of his inheritance and returns humbled, the father meets him with tenderness and welcomes him back. However, the father also shows the

fallen asleep: “When he rose from prayer and returned to his disciples, he found them sleeping from grief.” He will have to fight this battle alone.

As Jesus wrestles with his decision to fulfill God’s will, he is resisting his last — and perhaps greatest — temptation. Notice also, that this struggle takes place in the context of prayer. Jesus’ prayer to God strengthens his resolve to do God’s will.

His prayer enables him to face the temptations that would dissuade him from obeying God. Jesus’ faithfulness to God should inspire us to similarly fight the temptations that would take us away from God. He is the true superhero, whose example can encourage us in the midst of all our struggles.

same mercy and love to his oldest son who doesn’t understand and “doesn’t share that goodness toward his brother who did wrong,” the pope said. “When one feels righteous — ‘I have always done good things’ — the father also comes looking for us, because that attitude of feeling righteous is an evil attitude: It is pride. It comes from the devil,” he said.

— CNS

MARCH 18, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY

D

‘Exceeding expectations’ is music to super’s ears

ear friends of Catholic schools, On March 5, I was reading the meditation of the day in the Magnificat prayer resource when a phrase seemed to jump off the page: “Quick to take umbrage, slow to forgive” is found not quite halfway through a poem

by Brother Jacopone da Todi, an Italian Franciscan who died in 1306.

Though Brother Jacopone wrote his poem centuries ago, it resonates in today’s world.

Whether it is in social media, talk radio, letters to the editor or television, it often seems to me that we, as a society,

I

15

are very “quick to take umbrage.”

This being an election year is not helping this phenomenon!

However, not long after I read that phrase in the Magnificat, I was given a copy of a letter written by a parent of a child in one of our Catholic schools. Quite a difference from, “Quick to take umbrage,” this nearly two-page letter described the family’s gratitude for the fact that their child was able to attend a Catholic school.

The letter began by the writer explaining that she and her husband both had been products of Catholic schools,

FROM THE SUPER

KATHY O’HARA Kathy O’Hara is the superintendent of archdiocesan schools.

but that their financial situation had led them to enroll their child in a public school.

At some point, their son began to ask to attend the local Catholic school. With the assistance of the pastor, the child entered the Catholic school and, the rest, as they say, is history.

The mother referred to “being welcomed with

open arms” and being introduced as a “new family” to the other school families. She described how the teachers shared her tears when learning of her son’s special needs and reassured her that his learning would progress.

She commented that the principal, faculty and staff “are exceeding my experiences and expectations of what educators should do.”

She closed by saying that her son is doing well and that she and her husband are “so pleased to see him so happy and improving each day.”

When I finished reading that letter, I must have had a smile a mile

wide on my face — I know there was a tear in my eye. I know that we have parents in every one of our 43 Catholic schools who feel the same way about their experiences, but it always is such a joy to have this confirmed, especially in writing.

I am thankful that this parent took the time to convey her experiences.

However, I think I am more thankful that this parent sees the goodness surrounding her and is clearly teaching her child to see goodness as well.

Rather than taking “umbrage,” this mom is sharing love and joy. ¡Vaya con Dios!

Cap off your Lent by making a special effort this Holy Week

t’s never too late to begin to keep a good Lent. In fact, Holy Week provides a good “final lap” of this season of discipline and renewal — one which can either revive or hone one’s Lenten observance.

So, even if you’re looking at the arrival of Palm Sunday and thinking to yourself, “Where did the time go?” and lamenting what you haven’t gained from this holy season, make a new start today and ask the Holy Spirit to help you do your best as the week heads toward Easter.

Here are a few suggestions.

Consider taking a par-

V

ticular verse from each day’s Gospel this week and ask yourself questions like: “Have I said this, in so many words?” or “How is Jesus saying this to me?” Chew on the words, if you will, and what they mean for your own life. Choose your own, or try these: Palm Sunday: “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Holy Monday: “You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me.”

Holy Tuesday: “Will you lay down your life for me?” Holy Wednesday: “What are you willing to give me if I hand him over to you?” Holy Thursday: “What I am doing, you do not under-

AS THE CHURCH PRAYS

MICHAEL PODREBARAC Michael Podrebarac is the archdiocesan consultant for the office of liturgy and sacramental life.

stand now, but you will understand later.” Good

Friday: “We have no king but Caesar.”

Consider keeping some sort of fast throughout the week.

Some choose to observe each day as a day of fasting: one principal meal with two smaller meals, and no in-between meal snacking. Others simply

abstain from meat or eat a lighter, vegetarian diet.

The idea is not to punish ourselves, but rather to use the disciplines of abstinence and fasting to gently readjust whatever imbalances might still remain in our earthly attachments.

And, of course, food is not the only thing from which we might abstain and fast.

Finally, consider observing the entire liturgy of the Triduum. As many of us already know, the Triduum consists of only one single liturgical celebration, commemorated in three services from Thursday evening through Saturday evening.

Attending the entire

liturgy over the three days gives us the privilege of following Jesus as he offers himself to the Father. And we, having entered into his actions, are able to offer ourselves to God through him.

No one who prayerfully keeps the entire Triduum liturgy is ever disappointed. In fact, we should all make the Triduum liturgy a priority of the last days of Holy Week, even when we’ve kept a good Lent. Otherwise, it’s like training for a competition, but not showing up for the actual event!

It’s never too late to begin to do what the Lord asks of us!

Catholics need to help shape new political reality

ery little about what is to come between now and Election Day is clear, except this: When the dust settles, at least one of America’s great political parties will never be the same.

The 162-year old Republican Party seems on the verge of coming apart at the seams. The country is watching it careen toward Cleveland in much the same way onlookers might observe a car without a driver barrel through an intersection: with a mix of fascination and horror.

And whatever the short-term electoral fallout, the GOP’s

implosion could have very unpredictable consequences for the world’s oldest political party, the Democratic Party, which already has serious stresses of its own.

There is ample reason for concern about the direction our politics are taking; however, this also has the potential to be a moment of creative destruction. And if there is to be a new political alignment, Catholics have the opportunity to help shape it.

The Catholic moral tradition can play a vital role in helping to steer our politics away from interest group tribalism.

Concepts like “human flourishing” and “the dig-

CHURCH AND STATE

MICHAEL SCHUTTLOFFEL Michael Schuttloffel is the executive director of the Kansas Catholic Conference.

nity of the person” need to be reintroduced into

our political discourse.

Catholic moral thinking can help turn the conversation toward what is good for society, instead of what is good for me, myself and I. The Catholic bishops have for years been encouraging the faithful to put principle before

party. Parties are, after all, a means of organizing politically, nothing more. The widespread dissatisfaction with party “establishments” should make this an opportune time to warn against uncritical devotion to political brand names.

Yet a decrease in attachment to party does not automatically translate into an increase in sober-minded citizenship based on moral principle. Witness the trend in recent presidential elections toward cult-of-personality politics. It is not exactly progress if blind loyalty to a political brand name is replaced with blind loyalty to a messiah in a

suit and tie.

It is said on an almost daily basis now that the voters are angry. This is not in and of itself a bad thing. Even the Lord grew angry at the moneychangers who had turned his Father’s house into a “marketplace” and a “den of thieves.” One can only imagine what he would have thought of Washington.

Righteous anger is not the same thing as rage, however. If these immense levels of voter frustration are not joined to a genuine concern for the common good, the temple may be torn down rather than cleansed.

LOCAL NEWS

MARCH 18, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

16

GOING STAG

Sole member of Bishop Miege’s diving team goes for gold Help from above

By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org

R

Jacob may have another secret weapon — an angel watching over him.

“We lost a son, Jacob’s older brother,” said Teresa. “Spencer was our oldest and he was only 5. He had a brain tumor.

“It was hard. It’s been tough on Jacob, too.”

Though he has two younger sisters, Jacob misses his older brother and has confided in his mother that sometimes when he’s diving, he feels that Spencer is with him.

“He has said at meets, ‘Mom, I think he’s watching over me,’” she said.

“I do sometimes just feel like he’s with me when I do great,” said Jacob.

Especially in February, the month in which Spencer died. February is also the month of the state diving championship.

So perhaps it was no coincidence that a little miracle happened at the end of the diving season.

“We got lucky,” said Mueller. “A friend of mine came on board the last few weeks and helped Jacob a lot.”

Indeed, Mueller discovered his longtime neighbor, Church of Ascension, Overland Park, parishioner Kerry Menegay, had been a high school diving champ in Ohio and an All-American at the University of Michigan.

When Menegay heard about Jacob, he was eager for the chance help a young diver accomplish what he had in 1977 — win a state championship.

“I work for Hewlett Packard,” he said, “and they encourage volunteer work.

“I had really good coaching over the years — some of the best in the world — so I was like, ‘It’s time to give back.’”

OELAND PARK — “I just had my mind set to winning,” said Bishop Miege senior Jacob Stockton. “It was my destiny.”

Even though he trailed by 15 points heading into the 5A state 1-meter diving finals, Jacob kept his cool and his confidence.

And it paid off.

He won the gold with an inward double somersault, one of the highestdifficulty dives of the meet.

“For four years,” said Bishop Miege swimming coach Dennis Mueller, “Jacob has been on a mission to win the state championship in diving.

“And he finally accomplished that feat this year.”

Jacob is the first male diver to win state for Bishop Miege.

That’s an accomplishment in itself.

But it’s made even more impressive when you consider the fact that Jacob is Bishop Miege’s only male diver.

And the school doesn’t have a dive coach.

Jacob has been on his own, working his way to the gold, since his freshman year.

First love Jacob’s family moved here from California when he was 10 and settled in St. Agnes Parish in Roeland Park.

“We asked what people do here during the summer,” said his mother Teresa. “We always went to the beach.”

That’s when Jacob began diving in a local summer league. He was hooked from the start.

The activity spoke to his fearless nature. He went on to play other sports and succeeded at anything daring.

But nothing challenged his desire to excel like diving.

“I loved going off the diving board,” he said. “And eventually I said, ‘I’m so tired of doing a front flip and a back flip and a jump, I want to do more.’”

And he did more — gravitating toward dives that required the most skill.

That improved Jacob’s standings because diving scores are multiplied by the degree of difficulty.

“Jacob’s dives are usually higher difficulty than other kids,” explained his mother. “So even if he doesn’t do perfect, it averages out to be a higher score.”

When Jacob made the move from St. Agnes to Bishop Miege High School, his parents approached Mueller about Jacob diving for the swim team.

On his own Mueller welcomed the diver, but admitted he would be on his own for coaching.

“I’ve been judging diving for 20 years,” he said. “I judged at the state meet and I could tell him what he did wrong.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD

Bishop Miege senior Jacob Stockton took home a gold medal from the Kansas Class 5A diving competition in the 1-meter dive. Stockton is the only male diver for Bishop Miege High School.

“But I couldn’t tell him how to correct it or execute it.”

Jacob attended daily practice with the swim team at the Roeland Park Aquatic Center but went off on his own to dive.

“I’d practice for about an hour and a half every day,” he said. “I just kind of remembered everything by heart; mostly just practiced fundamentals.”

“He’s had a coach off and on where we’ve paid someone,” said his mom.

“But he hasn’t had anybody at all in a year.”

He never had a coach with him at practices or diving meets.

“I really didn’t feel bad about that at all,” he said. “I was just like, ‘I can do it. I don’t even care, coach or not, I can do it.’”

And he did do it, qualifying for state every year — and coming in second both sophomore and junior years.

“And I’m like, senior year, I must get the gold,” he said. “And I worked hard.”

Faith and discipline Part of Jacob’s hard work involved training himself to worry about only himself.

“Over the years,” said Mueller, “the number one thing that I’ve always told him is don’t worry about anybody but yourself, and things will fall into place.”

When Jacob is on his own at a diving meet, you can find him sitting alone against a wall, eyes closed. He says he’s always thinking through his next dive.

He doesn’t watch his competitors.

“I just close my eyes and then when I hear the splash, I open them and wait for the scores,” he said. “I clap for them, no matter how they did.”

And he doesn’t let his own scores get to him.

“I never get mad about it,” he said.

“Getting mad will just make you do worse. Whatever the scores are — that’s what it is.

“I’m just taking it one dive at a time — getting out of the water and worrying about my next dive.”

And his faith plays a big part in that process.

“I just always know the Lord is with me,” he said. “I pray every night and say, ‘Get me through it. Help me do my best.’

“And no matter how I do, I always fold my hands, shut my eyes and say, ‘Thank you, Lord.’

“I thank the Lord for everything.”

A coach at last In high school you’re allowed to have a private coach.

“So that’s how we treated it,” said Mueller. “Jacob basically hired him for free.”

When Menegay met Jacob, he was impressed.

“The fact that he got through the season with no coaching is phenomenal,” he said.

Jacob was equally impressed with his new coach.

“He helped me out a lot,” he said.

“He really did teach me how to reach better, he taught me how to get better height, better entries — how to tighten up and stuff.”

But Menegay credits Jacob with being willing to work hard and make the changes necessary to improve.

“He was a great student,” he said.

“There were mechanics we worked on that were completely different from coaches he’d had in the past.

“It’s hard when you’re making changes like that, especially before a major competition.

“That’s what I was so impressed with — he wanted to compete and he made the changes.”

Jacob’s hard work would pay off, but not without his determined spirit. >> See “FINAL” on page 7