THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 39, NO. 33 | APRIL 13, 2018
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE MCSORLEY
Anna Welch has been the sacristan at Divine Mercy Parish in Gardner since 1990.
SERGEANT TURNED SACRISTAN
Age is no obstacle for Divine Mercy parishioner with a can-do attitude By Olivia Martin olivia.martin@theleaven.org
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ARDNER — Anna Welch knew her husband for a couple months before she proposed tying the knot. And at 91, she still knows how to get things done. Welch has been the sacristan at Divine Mercy Parish in Gardner since 1990, when she moved there with her husband to fill a position at the post office. “I love Gardner,” said Welch. “It’s just a beautiful little city.” Welch does her best to give back to the community she loves so much. A member of the parish choir and the Legion of Mary, a eucharistic minister and the parish sacristan, Welch makes good use of her time serving her community, no matter what. “She is a tremendous role model,” said Nadyne Castonguay, a longtime friend of Welch’s, as
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“SHE IS A TREMENDOUS ROLE MODEL. WHATEVER SHE’S IN CHARGE OF IS TIMELY AND WELL-DONE.”
well as a fellow choir and Legion of Mary member. “Whatever she’s in charge of is timely and well-done. . . . Seeing the things that she does makes you want to do them.” Welch and Castonguay visit area nursing homes and hospitals together every Tuesday for about five hours, normally seeing between 17 and 23 people. “They allow themselves between 15 and 20 minutes a visit because they have so many,” said
Steve Branch, a friend and former neighbor of Welch’s. In addition to her hospital visits and helping with all of the Masses in Gardner, Welch always makes time to pray morning prayer and a rosary before getting ready at 5 o’clock each morning. Though always an organized individual, Welch attributes much of her can-do spirit to her time serving as a sergeant in the Army during the Korean War. “The army was great,” she said. “It helped me. I really enjoyed what I did in the service. I met a lot of beautiful people of all races.” She even met her husband there. Although she was never deployed to Korea herself, her husband was just after they were married. That left Welch in the States as they each completed 27 months of service. “Veterans are a little bit different,” said Branch, a fellow veteran. “Most of them are extremely
dependable. If they decide to do something, they’re going to do it properly. They help others, and they’re very courteous. They’re giving people.” According to Castonguay, that describes Welch perfectly. “[She’s] never-failing, always there, [and] the go-to person to answer questions,” she said. Giving her time to the community has been surprising and rewarding for Welch. “People are very appreciative of what you do for them,” she said. And her dependability, perseverance and strong faith have not gone unnoticed outside her immediate community. “I’m a Lutheran,” said Branch. “I’m an elder in my church and, as such, you speak freely about Christ. “And I can do that with Annie even though her religion is different. “She’s the epitome of what a Catholic should be.”
APRIL 13, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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Silence all distractions if you want to hear God’s voice
n preparing our archdiocesan input for the upcoming Synod of Bishops on youth: “Young people, faith and vocational discernment,” I participated in several listening sessions with young adults in different areas of the archdiocese. One statement by one of the participants at our listening session at the St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center made a deep impression. A young woman shared that she had attended Catholic elementary and secondary schools but had never learned to pray. Receiving spiritual direction from one of the Apostles of the Interior Life at the St. Lawrence Center had opened the door for a much richer and deeper prayer life. No doubt, part of the reason for her spiritual growth was her own maturation that made her capable of a deeper communication with God. Yet, still it concerns me that we are failing to help at least some of our students develop a rich interior life by the time they graduate from our schools. As Catholics, we have inherited a rich devotional life that includes the rosary, Liturgy of the Hours, the Divine Mercy chaplet, Stations of the Cross, Mother of Perpetual Help devotions, acts of contrition, etc. Teaching young people how to pray, however, is different from making certain that they are acquainted with particular devotions and prayers. Do not misunderstand. It is imperative that we teach our youth these timeproven prayers. However, we must also do more. Every year at each of our high schools, I lead an all-school Holy Hour in the context of eucharistic
ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN April 16 “Shepherd’s Voice” recording Priest Advisory Council meeting
LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN adoration. I do this in part because I want to give them my personal encouragement to develop a love for praying in the presence of our eucharistic Lord. Our youth ministry staff has developed models that help engage young people in this time of prayer. During the homily at these Holy Hours, I also have an opportunity to exhort our youth to develop a rich prayer life. Just this past Saturday, leaders of the American Heritage Girls invited me to lead a eucharistic Holy Hour with their members and parents. It was truly inspiring to observe the natural desire of these young girls to draw close to our eucharistic Lord. During a recent visit to Bishop Miege High School after our eucharistic Holy Hour, I had the opportunity to meet with student leaders — freshmen through seniors. I asked them if they felt their Catholic school experience had helped them develop a strong prayer life. We had a great conversation. I was encouraged to hear about some of the positive experiences of the students, as well
as their suggestions on how we can better assist with their development of a rich interior life. One student made a particularly helpful suggestion. She asked for assistance in knowing how to listen to God. I loved her request because it revealed she knew that having a healthy and strong prayer life cannot consist of one-way communication. Prayer cannot simply be reduced to handing God a list of things that we want him to do for us and others. I was also pleased to hear another student share that, in one of their classes, they had learned lectio divina, a Benedictine method of praying over small sections of the Bible and allowing the Holy Spirit to draw our attention to a particular verse or phrase in which Our Lord speaks to our heart in a way that is particularly applicable to the unique circumstances of our life. This is certainly a very beautiful and time-honored way in which God speaks to us. One of the essentials of being able to recognize the voice of God in our prayer is silence. Sadly, our culture and society do not afford us many natural opportunities for silence. Living in this Information Age, we are bombarded constantly with exterior noise. We have to
LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER
Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann leads an all-school Holy Hour for Bishop Ward High School at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kansas. make a conscious effort to turn off all the outside distractions so that we can tune into what God desires to speak to our hearts. One of the great blessings that we have in the archdiocese that several other dioceses in our nation covet, is the Spiritual Mentorship program conducted by both the Apostles of Interior Life and the Holy Family School of Faith. This program helps participants develop a rich personal prayer life and equips them to accompany others who are seeking to listen better to God’s voice. On Monday, April 9, Pope Francis just promulgated an apostolic exhortation entitled “Gaudete et Exsultate” (“Rejoice and Be Glad”) — On the Call to Holiness in Today’s World. At the writing of this column, I have not had the opportunity to study carefully this exhortation, but part of our Holy Father’s message is that our prayer should impact other areas of our lives. As the name implies, holy individuals — men and women of prayer — will naturally be joyful. Pope Francis also stresses that a measure of the authenticity of our prayer life is our capacity for
mercy and compassion for others. Catholic families need to be schools of prayer, where basic prayers and devotions are learned but, more importantly, prayer from the heart is nurtured and shared. Every day, several times a day, we should speak to God about everything that is going on in our lives. Similarly, we should be attentive, listening to how God is revealing himself to us daily through the events and our encounters with others. For the Catholic, prayer is as essential for our daily living as oxygen and water! Pope Emeritus Benedict during his pastoral visit in the United States in a talk to American seminarians said that the so-called vocation crisis is really a crisis of prayer. If we teach young people how to pray, they will know how to listen to God’s voice in their hearts. If in reading this column you realize that you need to work on your own prayer life, this awareness is itself a great gift. The first step is to plead with the Lord as did his first disciples, “Lord, teach me to pray!” Then, be silent and wait to discover where his answer leads.
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April 17 Catholic Radiothon — St. Pius X High School Priests Personnel meeting Administrative Team meeting Confirmation — Ascension, Overland Park April 18 Today & Tomorrow Educational Foundation gala — St. Louis April 19 Vespers and dinner with priests ordained in the last five years April 20-22 Apostles of the Interior Life retreat April 23-24 Jesus Caritas bishops’ retreat April 24 Confirmation — Most Pure Heat of Mary, Topeka April 25 Catholic Education Foundation board meeting
ARCHBISHOP KELEHER April 13 60th anniversary Mass — Chicago April 21 Anointing Mass with Father Fongemie, FSSP April 22 Federal camp Mass
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APRIL 13, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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LUMEN VITAE
Archbishop and Louise Naumann receive prestigious award By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org
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VERLAND PARK — Many took the stage at the 6th annual Abbot’s Table April 7 at the Overland Park Convention Center. And several of the monks’ famous videos were shown depicting life at St. Benedict’s Abbey in Atchison. But Mrs. Louise Naumann stole the show. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann’s mother gave a brief speech, expressing her joy and gratitude for the evening. And that’s all it took. Her sweet demeanor and self-deprecating humor won the hearts of the more than 800 in attendance. Mrs. Naumann, along with her son, was presented the Lumen Vitae (“Light of Life”) medal given by the monks to recognize those who have followed Christ in service to his people and the church. Also receiving the medal was the Dunn family of J.E Dunn Construction. At the Mass preceding the event, Msgr. Ted Wojcicki gave the homily and talked about his memories of the Naumann household in St. Louis. Monsignor Wojcicki attended high school with the archbishop in the early ’60s. “[Mrs. Naumann] made many BLT sandwiches for us boys growing up,” he recalled. But that wasn’t all. “She also gave us ice cream,” he said gratefully. Mrs. Naumann was lauded throughout the evening as an example of perseverance through faith. In 1948, when she was five months pregnant with the archbishop, she tragically lost her husband and was left alone to raise her new son and his older brother Fred. She went on to earn her teaching degree and to teach in the Catholic school system, eventually serving as a principal. In a video shown during the event, Fred Naumann recalled his mother as “a strict disciplinarian and a wonderful mother.” “She worked hard,” he said. “I admire her for being able to go on after our dad was killed.” In the same video, Archbishop Naumann expressed thanks to his father for “having the wisdom to choose her to be my mother.” “Her relationship with Jesus is the center of her life and what gave her strength through tragedy,” he said. “That’s what motivated her in her responsibilities as a parent and as a Catholic school educator.” Mrs. Naumann said she raised both her sons to be living testaments to their father’s memory. And no one would question her success. “I feel like Fred is an excellent exam-
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Louise Naumann and Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann both received the Lumen Vitae (“Light of Life”) medal from St. Benedict’s Abbey in Atchison at the Abbot’s Table event April 7. The medal is given by the monks to recognize those who have followed Christ in service to his people and the church. Also receiving the medal were the Dunn family of J.E Dunn Construction.
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“WHEN I LOOK FOR THE SECRET TO HIS LIFE, OBVIOUSLY IT WOULD BE HIS FAITH. BUT THEN COMES HIS MOM, LOUISE. WHEN YOU SEE HER, WHEN YOU MEET HER, WHEN YOU MARVEL AT HER — YOU KNOW WHERE A MAN LIKE ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN CAME FROM.” Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Archbishop of New York ple of what a Catholic husband, a Catholic man, should be,” she said. “And I think Joe’s a great example of what a Catholic bishop should be. “I’ve been proud of everything he’s done.” Monsignor Wojcicki praised Mrs. Naumann for her humility and fidelity to the church and spoke warmly about the great works Archbishop Naumann accomplished during his time in St. Louis. “He was instrumental in the founding of Project Rachel,” he said. “He was
President Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann
Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)
Editor Rev. Mark Goldasich, stl frmark.goldasich@theleaven.org
instrumental in the establishment of the Vitae Society.” The archbishop continued as a champion for the pro-life movement when he came to Kansas City, and is now the chair-elect of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities. Cardinal Timothy Dolan, a fellow St. Louis native, also praised the archbishop as a leader of the faithful, and gave special credit to the archbishop’s mother. “When I look for the secret to his life, obviously it would be his faith,” he said. “But then comes his mom, Louise. “When you see her, when you meet her, when you marvel at her — you know where a man like Archbishop Naumann came from.” Calling the archbishop “a gift to the archdiocese and to me,” Archbishop Emeritus James P. Keleher thanked him for bringing so many new groups into the archdiocese, particularly the Little Sisters and Brothers of the Community of the Lamb. Little Sister Benedicte and Little Brother Christophe referred to the archbishop as a great father, brother and friend. “We feel very comforted in his presence,” said Little Brother Christophe. “And we were like sheep with a shepherd.” Accepting the medal on behalf of himself and his mother, the archbishop acknowledged four generations of his own family present at the event.
Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org
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He also thanked many friends and associates from his days in St. Louis, who made the trip west for the evening. Archbishop Naumann spoke movingly of the respect he has for the woman who was his first teacher. Mrs. Naumann was her younger son’s kindergarten teacher, but, more than that, she gave him his first lessons in his Catholic faith. “Her witness of love for Jesus, his church, and true devotion to his Blessed Mother have impacted my life and been the guiding lights for my own spirituality,” he said. “I’m in her debt.” The archbishop marveled at his mother being able to raise two boys on a Catholic school teacher’s salary. “My mother constantly sacrificed her own wants and desires so Fred and I really wanted for nothing,” he said. Mrs. Naumann’s main recreation as she raised her boys was being an active member of the Legion of Mary. “Mom, you taught me not so much with words but by your example to place God first, [and] the church, family and friends second,” said the archbishop. “And you taught our family that the poor and the vulnerable have a special claim on our hearts and resources.” The archbishop told the audience that, though he has earned many titles in his career, the one he is most proud of is simply being “Mrs. Naumann’s son.” >> See “DUNN” on page 6
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APRIL 13, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
WALKING THE WALK FOR THE UNBORN
National pro-life relay converges in Overland Park By Susan Fotovich McCabe Special to The Leaven
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VERLAND PARK — People of all ages banded together on a cold Palm Sunday to bring attention to prolife. The group was a part of the LIFE Runners A-Cross America Relay, a running/walking event designed to create awareness for the unborn and abortion. Participants, led by LIFE Runners co-founder, president and CEO Pat Castle, donned blue jerseys emblazoned with the words, “REMEMBER The Unborn – Jer 1:5.” LIFE Runners is the largest pro-life running/walking team in the world, with over 7,300 members across 129 chapters in all 50 states and 34 nations. “Here we are, out in the cold,” Castle said to the group. “Even with bad weather, we can inspire.” The annual relay began on Ash Wednesday, kicking off in San Francisco, New York, North Dakota and Texas (forming a cross over the United States), before converging in Overland Park. Covering 5,359 miles, participants ran 5K legs on the route or stayed close to home and participated remotely in their local area. The relay route passed by abortion facilities throughout the United States. The Overland Park event began with a Mass at Church of the Holy Cross in Overland Park and concluded with a peaceful prayer gathering at Planned Parenthood. The Holy Cross Knights of Columbus provided participants with lunch. Eudora resident Tina Jinkens, 48, participated in the relay for the first time. Jinkens is blind and ran alongside her guide dog Clara, who was trained to be her running companion. A member of Holy Family Parish in Eudora, Jinkens has been involved in pro-life work for 20 years, starting in college. It’s a cause she says is especially meaningful because of her own disability and that of family friend Joe Steffy. Steffy is a young man from Louisburg who has Down syndrome and recently joined LIFE Runners. “Joe is a vibrant guy and I love to be around him. Pro-life is a cause that is near and dear to my heart,” she said. “All people with disabilities are persons, and life matters to everyone. Abortion doesn’t just affect a mother and baby. It affects the entire family.” Jinkens volunteers for the Gabriel Project, a ministry of the pro-life office of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. It provides help to pregnant women in need. Just days before the relay converged in Overland Park, Jinkens and Clara ran multiple legs of the relay in Lawrence and Eudora.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY MATT MCCABE
Tina Jinkens (middle), a member of Holy Family Parish in Eudora, has been involved in prolife activities for 20 years. Jinkens, who is blind, participated in the LIFE Runners A-Cross America Relay for the first time with her guide dog Clara. This is 17-year-old Evan Lutz’s second year as a LIFE Runners participant. Lutz, a Garnett resident and Anderson County High School junior, is the 2017 LIFE Runner Male Student of the Year. A member of St. Boniface Church in Scipio, Lutz was inspired by a family from his youth group. “I never really thought about the pro-life debate until I met this family,” Lutz said. “As for a person-
LEAVEN PHOTO BY MATT MCCABE
Grace Beaner is the 2017 LIFE Runners 2017 Female Student of the Year and Evan Lutz is the 2017 LIFE Runner Male Student of the Year.
al experience, my English teacher started talking about pro-life in class when she was pregnant. She had a problem that might have caused her or her unborn baby to die. But she decided to have the baby.” Tremble, Missouri, mom Paige Marta participated in the relay with her 11-month-old daughter Abigail, while 14-year-old Alexa Lamb of Jefferson City, Missouri, participated with her family. Lamb is the 2015 LIFE Runner of the Year. “I’m defending the children who don’t have a voice, and I need to be that voice,” Lamb said. LIFE Runners Kansas City chapter leader T.D. Dorrell says that wearing the jersey is an easy way to “witness for the unborn and possibly be an instrument to change a person’s mind about abortion or help a woman in a crisis pregnancy chose life.” According to Dorrell, 82 percent of women who chose to have an abortion have said that just one supportive person would have changed their mind.
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Sister Mary Ellen Beyhan, SCL
EAVENWORTH — Sister Mary Ellen Beyhan, 91, a Sister of Charity of Leavenworth for 71 years, died on March 29 at the motherhouse here. She was a talented and versatile teacher who dedicated over 50 years to students in elementary and secondary schools and colleges. Mary Ellen was born Nov. 8, 1926, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the oldest of three children of John A. and Olga A. (Devero) Beyhan. She grew up in Tulsa, where she graduated from Holy Family High School. After two years of college, she entered the Sisters of Charity community on Aug. 14, 1946, and professed vows as Sister Peter on Aug. 15, 1948. She later returned to her baptismal name. Teaching was the great love of Sister Mary Ellen’s life and ministry. She taught art to first-graders and all courses to other elementary level students; science, algebra and other subjects in high schools; and biology and chemistry at colleges. She earned her undergraduate degree in education and her master’s in biology. While teaching English wasn’t her specialty, one high school student called her the best English teacher he ever had. Sister Mary Ellen was a born educator, whether teaching dance routines for school performances or overseeing experiments in science courses. As testimony to her excellence as an educator, Sister Mary Ellen received a letter of commendation from an administrator at Iowa Western Community College where she taught seven years. He wrote: “She is an excellent and challenging teacher, who possesses the uncanny ability of integrating quality standards with high student praise. Sister is concerned about her students (and humanity in general), and gives enormous amounts of her time to their needs and development.” For three years, she managed apartments for low-income families in archdiocesan housing in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Sister Mary Ellen and her good friend Sister Mary Jo Coyle received accolades for their excellent work — from snow removal to resident relations. However, Sister Mary Ellen was happy to return to the Midwest and to teaching as a college instructor. She completed her active ministry as a pastoral volunteer at Christ the King Parish in Kansas City, Kansas. Sister Mary Ellen moved to the motherhouse in September 2007.
USM student will have exhibit on campus LEAVENWORTH — The University of Saint Mary will host the annual senior art student exhibition, “Being Human,” until April 20 in the Goppert Gallery in Xavier Hall on the USM main campus here, located at 4100 S. 4th St. The exhibition is free and open to the public on weekdays from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. “Being Human” features works from USM senior double major (art and psychology) Kristina Carbrey of Lansing. Her works are a reflection of her love for the human mind and its ability to convey emotion, both physiologically and psychologically. From lithographic printing to mixed media pieces, the artist centers her works on human form and expression — both universally relatable ideas, regardless of a visitor’s individual story. For more information, call (913) 7586184.
APRIL 13, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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Villa St. Francis hosts Faith in Bloom benefit luncheon By Kate McEnerney Special to The Leaven
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LATHE — This year marks Villa St. Francis’ 73rd year serving the Kansas City community’s most vulnerable, and its second year celebrating that mission while raising funds to support it at the annual Faith in Bloom benefit luncheon. Sponsored by the archdiocese, Villa St. Francis offers long-term care, shortterm rehabilitation and skilled memory care. The Villa was founded by the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth in 1945 and, since its founding, has followed the same mission: embracing Christ’s love for all people by providing care to those in need with compassion, excellence and dignity, with a special concern for the poor. “Changes in health care and the economy have required our administration to constantly re-evaluate and redefine that ‘special concern,’” said Rodney Whittington, CEO of Villa St. Francis since 2014. “Today, that translates into us being one of the largest Medicaid providers in the state,” he said, “and one of the only communities in the area serving those whose Medicaid applications are still pending. “In many cases, we’re able to provide five-star care to seniors with nowhere else to turn.” “Medicaid covers a percentage of the cost of care,” said Duke Ondieki, director of operations. “In our case, that percentage stands today at about 90 percent, which translates into a monthly gap of about $65,000, which we have to find a way to cover. “Without support from our community, the mission just wouldn’t be possible.” But Whittington has been inspired by the community support.
Sister Celine of the Medical Sisters of St. Joseph, left, Msgr. Thomas Tank, and Sister Ann, Sister Jamal, and Sister Ronnie of the Sisters of St. Ann are pictured here at last year’s inaugural Villa St. Francis Faith in Bloom benefit luncheon. “In my four years at the Villa, the growth and improvements that we’ve seen thanks to the hard work of our staff and the generosity of the archdiocesan and metro community have been incredible.” Since 2014, Villa St. Francis has renovated the chapel, main lobby and memory care area. They have partnered with Catholic Community Hospice, who now has an on-site office to offer hospice care to Villa residents. Staff tenure has surpassed industry standards, with 15 percent of staff members having worked for the Villa for more than a decade. Last year, the Center for Medicaid & Medicare Services (CMS) rated Villa St. Francis five stars in Quality Measures, a rating the community has maintained in the months since.
“Over the past four years, we’ve maintained an average of 95 percent occupancy,” said Tiffany HowellClair, director of community relations. “Every day, we’re able to provide care to an average of 160 residents.” “We wanted a way to bring our community of supporters together to thank them and celebrate all this growth, and to show them the outcomes of these seeds they’ve been planting and sowing over the years,” said Whittington. From this idea, the annual Villa St. Francis Faith in Bloom benefit luncheon was born. “Last year was our first luncheon, and we had no idea what to expect,” said Whittington. With a few staff members and a couple dozen volunteers, including
members of the board of trustees, the auxiliary, the Ladies of Charity and the archdiocesan community, the first Faith in Bloom luncheon honored two men who had greatly impacted both Villa St. Francis and the archdiocese as a whole over their 50 years of service — Msgr. Thomas Tank and Msgr. Charles McGlinn. The first luncheon was a success, tripling the initial fundraising goal and enabling Villa St. Francis to renovate the resident dining room and purchase new therapy equipment. “The state-of-the-art equipment has had a huge impact on our residents in all levels of care,” said Kristie Onkoba, Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) coordinator. “We’ve seen an overall increase in standing endurance and functional ability, and a decrease in hospital re-admissions,” she said. “With improved mobility comes increased independence, giving residents a better quality of life,” she continued. This year’s luncheon honoring Archbishop Emeritus James Patrick Keleher for 60 years of service to the church is scheduled for May 9 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Olathe Conference Center at Embassy Suites, located at 10401 S. Ridgeview Rd. At the luncheon, the inaugural Joseph F. Naumann Sanctity of Life Award will be presented to a member of the archdiocese who has exemplified outstanding dedication to the prolife mission of the church. Individual tickets are $100 and can be purchased online at: FaithInBloom Luncheon.com. For table reservations and sponsorship information, contact Tiffany Howell-Clair by email at: thowell@ villasf.org.
University of Saint Mary honors founder with new scholarship
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By Jan Dixon Special to The Leaven
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EAVENWORTH — Kansas students who once considered a private college education to be cost-prohibitive will be offered a unique opportunity this fall through the new De Paul Scholar program at the University of Saint Mary here. The new program, believes Sister Diane Steele, the president of the university, reflects their founder’s mission in a unique way. The university, like the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth, is based on the charism of St. Vincent de Paul, a French priest who dedicated himself to serving the poor. “For Vincent,” explained Sister Diane, “it was about liberating people. Changing things systematically. Educating a person in order to break their cycle of poverty.” “Catholic education should be provided according to your desire to learn, not according to your pocketbook,” she continued. “We have created the new De Paul Scholar program to meet this need.” USM has always been about meeting needs. According to Sister Diane, the Sisters of Charity originally came to this country with the intention of serving
“CATHOLIC EDUCATION SHOULD BE PROVIDED ACCORDING TO YOUR DESIRE TO LEARN, NOT ACCORDING TO YOUR POCKETBOOK.”
PHOTO COURTESY OF USM
The new De Paul Scholar program at the University of Saint Mary in Leavenworth will help students meet the financial burden of attending a private college. the Native Americans, but discovered a greater need — health care and education. So that is what the Sisters provided. They have continued to discern and meet the needs of God’s people over the years, always asking: Who needs us now? This time, the answer was clear. “There is a segment of students out there who really need a Saint Mary education,” said Sister Diane. “We think we can help them break their cycle of poverty. We can empower them to be
productive citizens.” The De Paul Scholar program will be piloted for incoming freshmen who are Kansas residents. A student must be a full Pell student (demonstrated high need) with a high school GPA of 2.5 or better and an ACT composite score of 18 or better. “A lot of students do not consider an institution like ours because of the sticker price,” said John Shultz, director for marketing and admissions at USM. “The De Paul Scholar program will drive the
cost down for high-need students.” After federal and state aid packages are applied, the De Paul program will cover all remaining tuition costs. If a student chooses to live on campus, their room cost will also be covered. Out-ofpocket expenses for the student will be minimal, as they will only include textbooks and an optional meal plan. The grant is renewable for all four years for students who maintain good academic standing. “This is available and is a viable option,” said Shultz. “It is a very, very good deal for a private education.” The De Paul Scholar program is being piloted in celebration of the 400th anniversary of the Vincentian charism. “We are proud to carry on the Vincentian heritage and to serve all of God’s people,” said Sister Diane.
APRIL 13, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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TOOLS FOR FAMILIES Growing as Disciples of Jesus
A prayer before bed The “Regina Coeli” (“Queen of Heaven”) can be a family bedtime prayer during the Easter season: V. Queen of Heaven, rejoice, alleluia. R. For he whom you did merit to bear, alleluia. V. Has risen, as he said, alleluia. R. Pray for us to God, alleluia. V. Rejoice and be ARTWORK BY NEILSON CARLIN, 2015 glad, O Virgin Mary, alleluia. R. For the Lord has truly risen, alleluia. Let us pray: O God, who gave joy to the world through the resurrection of thy Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, grant we beseech thee, that through the intercession of the Virgin Mary, his mother, we may obtain the joys of everlasting life, through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. — Deacon Tony Zimmerman, lead consultant for the archdiocesan office of marriage and family life
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CHURCH OF THE WEEK
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Louise Naumann is congratulated on her Lumen Vitae (“Light of Life”) award, as her son Fred Naumann looks on. Louise Naumann was a longtime Catholic school teacher in the St. Louis area.
Dunn family ties to abbey go back 75 years >> Continued from page 3
Sacred Heart, Topeka Address: 312 N.E. Freeman Ave., 66616 Phone: (785) 234-3338 Pastor: Father Timothy Haberkorn Mass times: Saturday, 4 p.m.; Sunday, 10:30 a.m. Website: www.sacredheartstjosephcatholic.org MORE PHOTOS AND A VIDEO TOUR of this church can be seen online at: www.theleaven.org.
Archbishop Naumann also expressed gratitude for the privilege of sharing the night’s honor with the Dunn family. “Anything that’s good and noble going on in the community,” he said, “there’s a Dunn that’s part of it. “I don’t think there’s anybody that thinks the light of Christ shines more brightly in our community than [it shines] in the Dunn family.” The Dunns have a long history with St. Benedict’s Abbey. In 1945, when the monks launched their centennial expansion program, Ernie Dunn served as the program’s first chair. The Dunn family has continued helping the abbey and the community for more than 75 years.
“As we know,” said Abbot James Albers, the [Dunn family’s] philanthropy goes beyond the Kansas City area.” “Many things go unnoticed,” he said. “But that’s the kind of people they are — supporting Catholic and Christian causes, and doing so in a way that’s very humble in nature.” When Bill Dunn accepted the award for the family, he praised his parents for giving him and his four brothers Catholic educations through college. “We were also taught to give back our time and talent and treasure to our church and many other causes,” he said. Indeed, their company donates 10 percent of its pre-tax earnings to charity every year. Along with the family foundation, they support over 400 charitable causes annually. Dunn also spoke lovingly of his
deceased sister Mary, who was born with Down syndrome. “She taught us all about humility and patience,” he said, “and helping those less fortunate.” The evening closed with an opportunity for the audience to support the prayer and work of the monks of St. Benedict’s Abbey. A $160,000 challenge gift in honor of the closing of the 160th anniversary of the foundation of the abbey was announced, and the audience was reminded to save the date for the 7th annual Abbot’s Table on April 27, 2019. To view videos from the Abbot’s Table event, go online to: kansas monks.org/abbotstable2018. For more information on the event or St. Benedict’s Abbey, send an email to: info@kansasmonks.org, or call (913) 360-7908.
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APRIL 13, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS Debbie (Spitler) and Eldon Elkinton, members of Divine M e r c y Parish, G a r d n e r, ce le b rated their 50th wedding anniversary on March 23. The couple was married on March 23, 1968, at St. Peter Church in Kansas City, Missouri. Their children are: Steve Elkinton, Gurnee, Illinois; Jeff Elkinton, Gardner; Tracy Elkinton (deceased); Mark Elkinton, Spring Hill; and Julie Strausbaugh, Edgerton. They also have nine grandchildren. They will celebrate with a family trip to Niagara Falls this summer. Steve and Kay Swendson, members of St. Ann Parish, Effingham, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on April 20. The couple was married on April 20, 1968, at St. Ann Church, Hiawatha. Their children are: Stephanie Frakes, Travis Swendson and Ryan Swendson. They also have six grandchildren.
Kathy (Collins) and Dennis Graves, members of the St. Lawrence Catholic Campus C e n t e r, Lawrence, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on April 21 at the St. Patrick Church hall in Emerald. The couple was married on April 20, 1968, at St. Patrick Church, Emerald. Their children are: Sean, Tim and Shannon. They also have six grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Lyle and Dolores Holthaus, members of St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary this summer with a family trip. The couple was married on April 20, 1968, at St. Bede Church, Kelly. Their children are: Monica Robertson, Tulsa, Oklahoma; and Jay Holthaus, Leawood. They also have six grandchildren.
George and Nadine (Relinger) Mergenmeier, members of St. Stanislaus Parish, Rossville, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on April 14 with a family reunion. The couple was married on April 12, 1958, at St. Patrick Parish, Corning. Their children are: William Mergenmeier, Jan Hinterweger, Andrew Mergenmeier, Sue Flach and James Mergenmeier (deceased). They also have 14 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
Jack and Bobbie (Pursley) Sixta, members of St. Patrick Parish, Kansas City, Kansas, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on April 12. The couple was married on April 12, 1958, at Christ the King Church, Kansas City, Kansas. Their children are: Joan Henderson, John Sixta, Tom Sixta, Joe Sixta and Theresa Zawacki. They also have 15 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
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ANNIVERSARY submissions submissions ANNIVERSARY POLICY: The Leaven prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th anniversary notices. They are for parishioners in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas DEADLINE: eight days before the desired publication date. INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING: • The couple’s names • their parish • the date they were married • church and city where they were married • what they are doing to celebrate • date of the celebration • names of children (no spouses) • number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren SUBMISSION GUIDELINES: • Announcements must be typed. • Emailed photos need to be 200 dpi. • Mailed photos can be any size. • If you would like your photo returned, include a self-addressed stamped envelope. WHERE TO SUBMIT: Send notices to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, attn: anniversaries; or email: todd. habiger@theleaven.org.
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Closin Suicide awareness training By Olivia Martin olivia.martin@theleaven.org
K
A N S A S CITY, Kan. — Pouring a glass of milk doesn’t seem difficult. But it can be the hardest thing in the world for someone suffering from depression. More than 80 people gathered on March 20 at St. MarySt. Anthony Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, to participate in The Gap, a bilingual EnglishSpanish depression and suicide awareness and prevention training organized and sponsored by ReachKCK youth ministry. To begin the evening, Liz Miller, the Wyandotte Country youth outreach coordinator, opened in prayer: “So much of this is hard to hear and deal with.” “But the reality is that there is hope and there is life,” said Miller. “We stand with our God, who is the God of life.” Jeffery Block, a music teacher at St. James Academy in Lenexa, shared his experience working with youth suffering from depression over the course of his 11 years as a teacher, as well as his own personal battle. Block expressed his hope that the audience might pause before judging teens lazy or rebellious and to first consider whether those might be signs of depression. One thing Block has come to understand about depression is that “it is virtually impossible to explain how it feels to somebody who has not” experienced it. But there are three things he’s found that help: fostering understanding, empathy and patience. This was Block’s motivation for creating his nonprofit, The Line in the Sand project, whose purpose is to educate parents and teachers in ways to accompany youth with depression, primarily by helping teens find ways to express their experience. “I realized there was a gap between what students and teachers were experiencing — also students and parents,” said Block. “What is the gap? “The kid feels like he is on one side of a cavern and can’t get over to the other side, and
Jeffery Block, a music teacher at St. James Academy in Lenexa, shares his experience working with youth suffering from depression over the course of his 11 years as a teacher, as well as his own personal battle. all of those questions (Why he can’t do simple daily tasks? Why he feels that way?) are the gap.” “When [The Line in the Sand project] first began,” he continued, “the whole aim was to get teenagers to explain to people how they feel.” In aid of that, Block collected students’ experiences in words, drawings and other activities. “You do not have to micromanage every word you say,” he told parents and teachers present. “It comes back to understanding, empathy and patience.” As someone with experience accompanying a friend who suffers from depression, Emily Cairney, a middle school theology teacher at St. Patrick School in Kansas City,
ng the Gap
alerts parents, teachers, ministers to signs of depression
WHO DEPRESSION AFFECTS:
• Girls are at higher risk than boys. • A family history of depression increases the chances of teen depression by 11 percent. • Dependence on alcohol or drugs greatly increases the likelihood of depression.
WARNING SIGNS OF SUICIDE RISKS:
• Expressing suicidal thoughts on social media • Preoccupation with death and dying • Withdrawing from friends and social activities • Giving away prized possessions • Loss of interest in hobbies, work, school, etc. • Drastic changes in behavior
EARLY PREVENTION MEASURES TO TAKE:
• Talk about suicide and self-harm openly. • Normalize speaking about suicidal thoughts. • Educate youth where they can go for help for themselves or a friend. • Lock up firearms and medication and create a safety plan. • Know your child’s friends. • Maintain consistency.
Kansas, was struck by the usefulness of the presentation. “I was surprised that there’s a person who has been able to take something my friend has said there’s a need for and is doing [that] exactly,” she said. Nicole Gawer and Nicole Stafford are clinical therapists at Parent, Adolescent and Child Empowerment Services (PACES) in Kansas City, Kansas. They work with teens experiencing depression and suicidal tendencies every day. “In the therapy world,” said Gawer, “I think about what works and what doesn’t work, what’s helpful and what isn’t helpful.” She stressed to listeners that forgiveness is a key starting point for healing for them and for their loved one with depression.
“Forgive yourself for what you did and didn’t do,” she said. Calling attention to the silent way in which many people with depression suffer, Stafford discussed the symptoms that teens exhibit. “A lot of times, depression is associated with unbearable emotional pain that kids just don’t know how to express,” said Stafford. Affected teens may display symptoms from irritability to a change in appetite to sleep disturbance to difficulty concentrating to thoughts of suicide. Stafford also stressed that young people with depression who experience panic attacks or extreme hopelessness, are preoccupied with death or dying, or have a history of at-
”
A LOT OF TIMES, DEPRESSION IS ASSOCIATED WITH UNBEARABLE EMOTIONAL PAIN THAT KIDS JUST DON’T KNOW HOW TO EXPRESS.
tempts on their own life, are at increased risk of suicide. She also listed some life events that could leave teens vulnerable to suicidal tendencies: “a recent death of a friend or family member . . . a breakup . . . or a recent divorce.” “What we’re looking for is a change in the person,” she said. But that’s not where the story ends. There are many concrete ways to close the “gap” Block had identified. “Know your child’s friends,” said Stafford. “Have a relationship with your child. “Put down your phone. . . . Listen. . . . [And] open the door to talking about suicide and self-harm to help raise awareness.” Gawer said she was grateful to see so many people at the event. “We have to start talking about these things and we can’t just talk about it after the next bad thing happens,” she said. “We have to be no-
ticing what’s going on for people and paying attention to their humanness.” In listening and lending support to those with depression, Cairney has experienced a strengthening in her faith. “One really hard question everyone has about the faith is: If God loves us, why do bad things happen?” she said. “And that is a hard question with mental illness. “That [question], in two ways, has helped me grow in my faith: by accepting that I don’t know and don’t have the answer and then trusting God to be there for that person to help them.” Father Peter Jaramillo, SSA, pastor of St. Mary-St. Anthony Parish, stressed that faith is a powerful weapon in defeating depression and suicide. “Your faith is light,” he told those gathered. “Your faith is hope. Your faith is joy. “As people of faith, use your faith to share the insight that you have as Christians, Catholics, or whatever your religious background is.”
DEPRESSION AND SUICIDE FACTS:
• Anxiety and depression have been on the rise since 2012. • In 2015, about three million teens from age 12-17 had at least one major depressive episode in the past year. • Suicide among ages 15-24 has increased by over 200 percent in the last 50 years. • Suicide is the second leading cause of death for ages 10-24. • Each day an average of 5,400 suicide attempts are made by youth, grades 7-12, in the U.S. • Four times more women than men commit suicide. • Three times more men than women attempt suicide. • Four of five teens who attempt suicide have given clear warning signs.
SEEKING HELP
For more information about depression and suicide prevention, or to seek professional help, visit the website at: www.paceswc.org. For emergency suicide prevention, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1 (800) 273-8255.
APRIL 13, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
VATICAN
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Holiness is serving the Lord in the hungry, the stranger, writes pope By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service
V
ATICAN CITY (CNS) — God calls all Christians to be saints — not plastic statues of saints, but real people who make time for prayer and who show loving care for others in the simplest gestures, Pope Francis said in his new document on holiness. “Do not be afraid of holiness. It will take away none of your energy, vitality or joy,” the pope wrote in “Gaudete et Exsultate” (“Rejoice and Be Glad”), his apostolic exhortation on “the call to holiness in today’s world.” Pope Francis signed the exhortation March 19, the feast of St. Joseph, and the Vatican released it April 9. Much of the document was written in the second person, speaking directly to the individual reading it. “With this exhortation I would like to insist primarily on the call to holiness that the Lord addresses to each of us, the call that he also addresses, personally, to you,” he wrote near the beginning. Saying he was not writing a theological treatise on holiness, Pope Francis focused mainly on how the call to holiness is a personal call, something God asks of each Christian and which requires a personal response given one’s state in life, talents and circumstances. “We are frequently tempted to think that holiness is only for those who can withdraw from ordinary affairs to spend much time in prayer,” he wrote. But “that is not the case.” “We are all called to be holy by living our lives with love and by bearing witness in everything we do, wherever we find ourselves,” he said. He wrote about “the saints next door” and said he likes “to contemplate the holiness present in the patience of God’s people: in those parents who raise their children with immense love, in those men and women who work hard to support their families, in the sick, in elderly religious who never lose their smile.” Pope Francis also noted the challenges to holiness, writing at length and explicitly about the devil just two weeks after an uproar caused by an elderly Italian journalist who claimed the pope told him he did not believe in the existence of hell. “We should not think of the devil as a myth, a representation, a symbol, a figure of speech or an idea,” the pope wrote in his exhortation. “This mistake would lead us to let down our guard, to grow careless and end up more vulnerable” to the devil’s temptations. “The devil does not need to possess us. He poisons us with the venom of hatred, desolation, envy and vice,” he wrote. “When we let down our guard, he takes advantage of it to destroy our lives, our families and our communities.” The path to holiness, he wrote, is almost always gradual, made up of small steps in prayer, in sacrifice and in service to others. Being part of a parish community and receiving the sacraments, especially the Eucharist and reconciliation, are essential supports for living a holy life, the pope wrote. And so is finding time for silent prayer. “I do not believe in holiness without prayer,” he said, “even though that prayer need not be lengthy or involve intense emotion.” “The holiness to which the Lord calls you will grow through small gestures,”
CNS PHOTO/PAUL HARING
Pope Francis delivers his homily at the Mass marking the feast of Divine Mercy in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican April 8. he said, before citing the example of a woman who refuses to gossip with a neighbor, returns home and listens patiently to her child even though she is tired, prays the rosary and later meets a poor person and offers him a kind word. The title of the document was taken from Matthew 5:12 when Jesus says “rejoice and be glad” to those who are persecuted or humiliated for his sake. The line concludes the Beatitudes, in which, Pope Francis said, “Jesus explained with great simplicity what it means to be holy”: living simply, putting God first, trusting him and not earthly wealth or power, being humble, mourning with and consoling others, being merciful and forgiving, working for justice and seeking peace with all. The example of the saints officially recognized by the church can be helpful, he said, but no one else’s path can be duplicated exactly. Each person, he said, needs “to embrace that unique plan that God willed for each of us from eternity.” The exhortation ends with a section on “discernment,” which is a gift to be requested of the Holy Spirit and developed through prayer, reflection, reading Scripture and seeking counsel from a trusted spiritual guide. “A sincere daily ‘examination of conscience’” will help, he said, because holiness involves striving each day for “all that is great, better and more beautiful, while at the same time being concerned for the little things, for each day’s responsibilities and commitments.” Pope Francis also included a list of cautions. For example, he said holiness involves finding balance in prayer time, time spent enjoying others’ company and time dedicated to serving others in ways large or small. And, “needless to say, anything done out of anxiety, pride or the need to impress others will not lead to holiness.” Being holy is not easy, he said, but if the attempt makes a person judgmental, always frustrated and surly, some-
thing is not right. “The saints are not odd and aloof, unbearable because of their vanity, negativity and bitterness,” he said. “The apostles of Christ were not like that.” In fact, the pope said, “Christian joy is usually accompanied by a sense of humor.” The exhortation included many of Pope Francis’ familiar refrains about attitudes that destroy the Christian community, like gossip, or that proclaim themselves to be Christian, but are really forms of pride, like knowing all the rules and being quick to judge others for not following them. Holiness “is not about swooning in mystic rapture,” he wrote, but it is about recognizing and serving the Lord in the hungry, the stranger, the naked, the poor and the sick. Holiness is holistic, he said, and while each person has a special mission, no one should claim that their particular call or path is the only worthy one. “Our defense of the innocent unborn, for example, needs to be clear, firm and passionate for at stake is the dignity of a human life, which is always sacred,” the pope wrote. “Equally sacred, however, are the lives of the poor, those already born, the destitute, the abandoned and the underprivileged, the vulnerable infirm and elderly exposed to covert euthanasia. . . .” And, he said, one cannot claim that defending the life of a migrant is a “secondary issue” when compared to abortion or other bioethical questions. “That a politician looking for votes might say such a thing is understandable, but not a Christian,” he said. Pope Francis’ exhortation also included warnings about a clear lack of holiness demonstrated by some Catholics on Twitter or other social media, especially when commenting anonymously. “It is striking at times,” he said, that “in claiming to uphold the other commandments, they completely ignore
the eighth, which forbids bearing false witness or lying.” Saints, on the other hand, “do not waste energy complaining about the failings of others; they can hold their tongue before the faults of their brothers and sisters, and avoid the verbal violence that demeans and mistreats others.”
APRIL 13, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
CLASSIFIEDS EMPLOYMENT Teacher assistant - Special Beginnings, Lenexa, is seeking full- or part-time after-school teacher assistants at all locations. We are looking for a teacher assistant candidate who has an excellent work ethic, heart for children and a willingness to learn more about early childhood education. Experience and/or education is a plus, but we will train the right candidate. Teacher assistants will work with the lead teacher to care for and educate the children. Primary responsibilities include assisting the lead teacher with: care and supervision of children, lesson plan implementation, parent communication, and cleanliness and organization of classroom. Starting hourly pay ranges based on experience and education. Pay increases are based on job performance. Opportunities for advancement are available, as the company prefers to promote from within. Apply by sending an email to: chris@specialbeginningsonline.com or in person at 10216 Pflumm Rd., Lenexa, KS 66215. Spanish teacher - Sacred Heart of Jesus School in Shawnee is seeking a part-time Spanish teacher for the 2018-19 school year. The job would be 20 hours per week. The ideal candidate would be a practicing Catholic with the ability to teach introductory Spanish to all grade levels, K - 8. If interested, send an email to Maureen Engen at: Maureen.engen@shoj.org. Caregivers - We help seniors stay independent. You are passionate about caregiving. Benefits of Home - Senior Care is looking for compassionate caregivers to help us care for our clients! Part or full time, we work to meet your schedule and provide training. (913) 422-1422 or www.benefitsofhome.com. Do you enjoy driving? - The Kansas City Transportation Group is looking for chauffeurs to drive our guests to events, airport, dinner, etc. Business is growing and we are in need of workers with flexible hours, those who are retired, etc. Great pay and benefits. Send resume to: jkalbert@kctg.com or in person at Carey, 1300 Lydia Ave., Kansas City, MO 64106. Foreign language and English/Language Arts - Saint Thomas Aquinas High School currently has the following teaching openings for the 2018-19 school year. Foreign language: Spanish, Latin and/or German and English/language arts. All applicants must have or be able to secure a Kansas teaching license. A practicing Catholic is preferred. Send a letter of interest and resume via email to Dr. Bill Ford at: wpford@stasaints.net or mail to: Dr. Bill Ford, Saint Thomas Aquinas High School, 11411 Pflumm Rd., Overland Park, KS 66215. Career opportunity - Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding a financial representative in the Kansas City metro and Topeka areas. 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. This is a full-time position. 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. Drivers - Special Beginnings Early Learning Center is seeking part-time drivers for its school-age program located in Lenexa. Candidates must be able to drive a 13-passenger minibus, similar to a 15-passenger van. CDL not required, but must have an excellent driving record. Candidates would pick up children from area schools and then work directly with them when arriving back at the center. Experience preferred. Must have strong work ethic and the ability to work with children. Insurance provided. Background check will be conducted. Great opportunity for retired persons or those seeking a second job. Job responsibilities include: ensuring safety and well-being of children who are being transported at all times, including loading and unloading. Driving short, round-trip routes to elementary schools in Lenexa/Olathe area. Summer only: Driving short, roundtrip routes to two Lenexa city pools. Maintaining mileage log. Keeping interior of vehicle clean. Apply by sending an email to: chris@specialbeginningsonline.com or in person at 10216 Pflumm Rd., Lenexa, KS 66215. Preschool teaching positions - St. Ann Young Child Center in Prairie Village is looking to fill staff positions for the 2018-19 school year. Seeking a part-time 3-year-olds preschool teaching position for Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:45 a.m. - noon. A degree in education is required. Also seeking a part-time preschool aide for Monday - Friday from 8:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. Experience preferred but not necessary. Finally, seeking an extended-day aide for Monday through Friday from 3 - 6 p.m. If you love working with children and are looking for part-time work at our distinguished Young Child Center, call Tati at (913) 3624660. Assistant director - Holy Trinity Early Education Center is accepting applications for the position of assistant director. The applicant must have either an AA or a BA in early childhood education with a minimum of 15 - 18 hours of coursework directly related to child development and education. For more information or to request a job application, send an email to Mary Scanlon at: mscanlon@htlenexa.org. To apply, submit a resume with a cover letter explaining why you are interested in the position.
Lead and assistant teachers - The Goddard School located at 21820 W. 115th Terr., Olathe, is looking for qualified lead teachers and assistant teachers — both full- and part- time positions are available. In our warm, loving atmosphere, our highly qualified teachers support the healthy development of children from 6 weeks to 6 years. Our teachers write and implement their own lesson plans based on our FLEX program, Goddard Developmental Guidelines and our monthly school theme. Lead teachers also complete other duties such as electronic daily attendance reports, progress reports and parent conferences. The hands-on efforts of the school owner and directors allow our teachers to focus on their children, their lesson plans and teaching to ensure a funfilled day of learning. Full-time benefits include: competitive pay; paid time off; opportunities for professional development and career growth; and a great working environment. Qualified candidates must meet or exceed Kansas regulations, have strong communication skills and desire to learn and implement the Goddard School programs. Lead teachers should have an early childhood education degree or a CDA or a degree in a related field with an emphasis in early childhood education. Prior experience in a child care setting is preferred. To apply, email your resume to: olathe2ks@goddardschools.com or mail to: The Goddard School, 21820 W. 115th Terr., Olathe, KS 66061, Attention: Mandy Ellis, director. Youth outreach coordinator - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking a dynamic individual for urban youth ministry. The Wyandotte County youth outreach coordinator will assist with the creation and implementation of programs, as well as develop training for those serving the evangelization, youth ministry and catechesis efforts in Wyandotte County. The ideal candidate will be committed to Catholic teaching, knowledgeable in theology and catechesis, and possess leadership skills with a track record of innovation and collaboration. This position requires fluent bilingual abilities in English and Spanish; a bachelor’s degree, preferably in youth ministry, theology or related field; master’s degree preferred. Also requires a minimum of five years of program management experience relatable to the position. For a full job description, go to: www.archkck.org/jobs . Interested candidates must submit a cover letter expressing your desire to serve the church in this position; resume; letter of support from your pastor; and a completed application form (available on the webpage) to: jobs@archkck.org, or by mail to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Human Resources – Urban Youth Search, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Submission deadline: May 4. Pastoral ministry coordinator – St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood is seeking a highly motivated “people person” to fill the full-time staff position of pastoral ministry coordinator. The key roles of this position include working with parish families to schedule and prepare for the sacraments of baptism and marriage; coordinating ministry to the sick and homebound; and coordinating funerals. For more information and a complete job description, go to: www.stmichaelcp.org and click on “Our Parish/Employment Opportunities.” Director of evangelization - St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood is seeking a dynamic, faith-filled individual to fill this newly created position. The director of evangelization will collaborate closely with the pastor and director of religious education to create and execute a comprehensive plan for evangelization. This will include pre-evangelization; outreach and invitation; proclamation of the Gospel; facilitating retreats; and adult formation opportunities with the goal of making intentional disciples. This position will also oversee the parish RCIA program. The preferred candidate will be a prayerful, practicing Catholic; an inspirational teacher with experience in the field; articulate and confident in matters of faith with an obvious passion for evangelization. A master’s degree in religious studies or theology is preferred, but we will accept a candidate with a bachelor’s degree who also has experience in leading faith formation programs. For more information and a complete job description, go to: www.stmichaelcp.org and click on “Our Parish/Employment Opportunities.” Pro-Life ministry program coordinator - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking a program coordinator for the pro-life office. This position assists the lead pro-life consultant in implementing the office’s initiatives: Project Rachel/Project Joseph providing healing from abortion; and Project Gabriel in supporting those facing unplanned pregnancies. The coordinator contributes to the development and implementation of programs for the various ministries within the pro-life office and ensures these programs and other resources are communicated to archdiocesan priests and people in need of these healing and supportive services. Requires a bachelor’s degree, prefer social work or counseling. The individual must have a firm foundation in the Catholic Church’s teachings on abortion and a commitment to ongoing professional development in the areas of post-abortion and unplanned pregnancy programs. The position requires demonstrated skill in the areas of compassionate leadership, written and verbal communication, and confidentiality. A complete job description, application and benefits information are available on the archdiocese’s website at: www.archkck.org/jobs. Interested individuals should send a cover letter, resume, application and pastor’s letter of support via email to: jobs@archkck.org; or mail to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, Pro Life Program Coordinator Search, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Submission deadline: May 4.
Orizon Aerostructures – **Coming to Olathe** If a career in aviation manufacturing excites you, and you’re willing to work hard and hone your skills, we strongly encourage you to visit the website at: www.orizonaero. com/careers/ and view the current opportunities coming to Olathe. Manager - Divine Mercy Thrift Stores, Inc., is seeking a full-time paid manager for its new store. The candidate should possess a strong work ethic and a passion for nonprofit Catholic causes. Additionally, the candidate should be able to manage large numbers of volunteers, provide daily operations leadership and successfully reach financial goals. Send a resume to: DanSpencer3@ gmail.com.
HOME IMPROVEMENT Masonry work - Quality new or repair work. Brick, block and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; second-generation bricklayer. Member of St. Paul Parish, Olathe. Call (913) 829-4336. EL SOL Y LA TIERRA *Commercial & residential * Lawn renovation *Mowing * Clean-up and hauling * Dirt grading/installation * Landscape design * Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!! www.elsolylatierra.com Call Lupe at (816) 935-0176 Handyman/Remodeler - Quality service with references. Kitchens, baths, tile, painting, garage doors and openers, decks and wood rot repair. Call Jeff at (913) 915-4738. Decked Out In KC - We fix decks. 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. Member of Holy Trinity Parish. Concrete construction - Tear out and replace stamped, stained or colored patios and drives. Retaining walls, footings, poured-in-place safe rooms, excavation and hauling. Asphalt drives and lots. Fully insured; references. Call Dan at (913) 207-4371 or send an email to: dan deeconst@aol.com. NELSON CREATION’S L.L.C. Home makeovers, kitchen, bath. All interior and exterior remodeling and repairs. Family owned, experienced, licensed and insured. Member St. Joseph, Shawnee. Kirk Nelson. (913) 927-5240; nelsport@everestkc.net 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) 579-1835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa. DRC Construction We’ll get the job done right the first time. Windows - Doors - Decks - Siding Repair or replace, we will work with you to solve your problems. Choose us for any window, door, siding or deck project and be glad you did. Everything is guaranteed 100% (913) 461-4052 www.windowservicesoverlandpark.com drcconswindows@gmail.com. Father-and-son home exteriors and remodeling - Celebrating my 15th year in The Leaven as a small business owner! We do decks, siding, windows, doors, tile work, floors, wood rot, and interior and exterior painting. We can remodel bathrooms, kitchens or basements. We also reface cabinets and redo pesky popcorn ceilings. Call Josh at (913) 709-7230. HARCO Exteriors LLC Your Kansas City fencing specialists Family owned and operated (913) 815-4817 www.harcoexteriorsllc.com Local handyman - Painting int. and ext., staining, wood rot, power wash, decks, doors and windows, masonry, hardwood floors, gutter cleaning, water heaters, toilets, faucets, garbage disposals, ceiling fans, mowing and more!! Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118. The Drywall Doctor, Inc. – A unique solution to your drywall problems! We fix all types of ceiling and wall damage — from water stains and stress cracks to texture repairs and skim coating. We provide professional, timely repairs and leave the job site clean! Lead-certified and insured! Serving the metro since 1997. Call (913) 768-6655. Swalms organizing - downsizing - cleanout service - Reduce clutter – Any space organized. Shelving built on-site. Items hauled for recycling and donations. 20 years exp.; insured. Call Tillar at (913) 375-9115. WWW. SWALMSORGANIZING.COM.
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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.
SERVICES Tutoring - Summer enrichment for summer 2018 in math and reading. Tutoring will also be available for French, Spanish and other subjects. For more information, call Kathleen at (913) 206-2151 or send an email to: Klmamuric@yahoo.com. Win disability benefits - Disabled and no longer able to work? Get help winning Social Security disability benefits. Free consultation. Eight years’ experience. No fee unless you win. Call (785) 331-6452 or send an email to: montemace2000@yahoo.com or visit montemacedisability.com. Doll 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. How do I get rid of all these machines and tools? If you have basement or garage full of woodworking equipment that is collecting dust, I can sell them all and put cash in your hands. I have 24+ years’ experience appraising and selling woodworking machinery and tools. Member of St. Agnes Parish. Call (913) 375-5750 or send an email to: mbcobb5@gmail.com. Life Simplified - Professional organizing for home and business in the greater Kansas City area. We organize tools to toys, garages to attics. Pre- and postpmoving support for upsizing or downsizing. We advise on what to keep, donate, recycle or toss and offer personalized strategies on keeping organized. Supportive, confidential and nonjudgmental. Call (913) 725-8151. 0r send an email to: info@lifesimplified.biz. www.lifesimplified.biz Quilted memories - Your Kansas City Longarm shop Nolting Longarm machines, quilting supplies and machine quilting services. We specialize in memorial quilts - custom designed memory quilts from your T-shirt collections, photos, baby clothes, college memorabilia, neckties, etc. For information or to schedule a free consultation, call (913) 649-2704. Visit the website at: www.quiltedmemoriesllc.com. Pastoral and clinical counselor - Living in this world of violence, many people have witnessed or been victims of it. I offer therapy for those who have been victims of trauma or post-traumatic stress using a safe therapy called EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing). I also treat depression and anxiety disorders, existential turmoil and life transitions. Sliding scale fee. Call Donna at (913) 602-1415. Speedy Guzman Moving and delivery Licensed and insured Anytime (816) 935-0176 Clutter getting you down? - Organize, fix, assemble, install! “Kevin of all trades” your professional organizer and “Honey-do” specialist. Call or email me today for a free consultation at (913) 271-5055 or kev@koatindustries.com. Insured. References. 8 to Your IdealWeight Get Real, Get Healthy, Get Empowered. Release your weight and restore your power in 8 weeks! Certified coach: kathioppold.8toyouridealweight.com. All interior painting - including faux, glazing, front doors and shutters. Free estimates. Call or text Kerry at (913) 406-6777. 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. Cleaning lady - Reasonable rates; references provided. Call (913) 940-2959. Custom countertops - Laminates installed within five days. Cambria, granite and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee. Tree Trimming Tree Trimming/Landscaping Insured/References Free Estimates/Local Parishioner Tony (913) 620-6063 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. >> Classifieds continue on page 13
APRIL 13, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
CALENDAR TACO BINGO St. Patrick Parish (center) 1086 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kansas April 14 from 5:30 - 9:30 p.m.
The cost for dinner is: $8 for adults; $5 for kids; $25 for the family option. There is a $1 charge for each extra taco and extra side of rice or beans. Takeout orders will be available. Bingo cards cost $10 for six face cards; $12 for nine face cards; and $1 for each additional three face cards for the two specials.
MEMORIAL LITURGY Curé of Ars Parish 9405 Mission Rd., Leawood April 14 at 8 a.m.
There will be a memorial liturgy for deceased loved ones followed by a grief support meeting in the Father Burak Room. The topic will be: “Understanding Grief.” For more information, call (913) 649-2026.
‘FIND YOUR GREATNESS’ Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish 3601 S.W. 17th St., Topeka April 14 from 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Come discover how four life-changing habits can point toward discovering incredible possibilities in life. This event is appropriate for ages 12 and up, single and married, Catholic or non-Catholic. For tickets, visit the website at: DynamicCatholic.com/Topeka or call (859) 980-7900.
BID ’N’ BITE Sacred Heart Parish (hall) 101 Cottonwood St., Emporia April 14 at 6 p.m.
There will be a catered dinner with silent and live auctions to benefit Sacred Heart School. Must be 21 or older to attend. The cost for tickets is $30 per person and may be purchased online at: shsemporia.ticketleap.com/ bidnbite18.
‘DISCOURSE, DESSERT AND THE DOCTORS: THÉRÈSE OF LISIEUX’ Sophia Spirituality Center 751 S. 8th St., Atchison April 15 from 1:30 - 4 p.m.
Thérèse of Lisieux, one of the four female doctors of the Roman Catholic Church, was a Carmelite nun, mystic and writer. Her spiritual memoir, “The Story of a Soul,” introduced millions to a spirituality she referred to as “The Little Way.” Sister Judith Sutera, OSB, will introduce participants to the life of this revered saint in a mini-retreat. For more information or to register, call (913) 360-6173 or visit the website at: www.sophiaspiritualitycenter.org.
BLUE MASS Divine Mercy Parish 555 W. Main, Gardner April 15 at 10:30 a.m.
The Knights of Columbus invites everyone to the Blue Mass to honor all past and present first responders and those who work with them: police, firefighters, EMS and 911 communications. For more information, visit the website at: www.divinemercyks.org or send an email to: sjames0192@embarqmail.com.
DIVORCED: CALLED TO LOVE AGAIN Church of the Ascension (St. Luke Room) 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park 1st and 3rd Thursdays at 7 p.m.
What’s next after divorce/annulment? Join us for a formation series on the gift of self, which helps us fulfill the call to love again. Visit our Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/giftof self143 or send an email to: calledtolove143@ gmail.com.
HEALING MASS Curé of Ars Parish (Father Burak Room) 9405 Mission Rd., Leawood April 19 at 7:30 p.m.
A Mass with prayers for healing, sponsored by archdiocesan charismatic prayer groups, will be held. Father Dennis Wait will preside. For more information, call (913) 649-2026.
CONCERT AT MOUNT ST. SCHOLASTICA Mount St. Scholastica (Chapel) 801 S. 8th St., Atchison April 21 at 3 p.m.
Concerts at Mount St. Scholastica will include the Kansas City Chorale. One of the many accomplishments of the Kansas City Chorale was winning the Grammy Award for Best Choral Performance in 2015. Tickets are $12 and may be purchased at the door.
CAR, TRUCK AND CYCLE SHOW Our Lady of Unity (Sacred Heart Campus) 2646 S. 34th St., Kansas City, Kansas April 21 from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Each car, truck and cycle entry is $25 until April 14 and $20 after. There will be a T-shirt, goody bag and dash plaques for 100 entries. There will be food booths and assorted vendors. Proceeds will benefit the Our Lady of Unity School science lab. The event is free. For more information, send an email to: OLUCarClub@yahoo.com or visit the Facebook page OLU Car Club. This is a “rain-or-shine” event.
STRAWBERRY HILL 5K RUN/WALK Strawberry Hill Museum 720 N. 4th St., Kansas City, Kansas April 21 at 7 a.m.
Enrollment is from 7 - 8 a.m.; the run/walk begins at 8 a.m. Early enrollment is $35; on the day of, the fee is $50. An official race T-shirt will be given to all the participants. The route is new this year and will begin and end at the northern parking lot of the Strawberry Hill Museum off Ann Ave. Register online at: www.strawberryhillmuseum.org.
DAUGHTERS OF ISABELLA LITTLE FLOWER CIRCLE 503 Christ the King Parish (Yadrich Hall) 5973 S.W. 25th St., Topeka April 22 at 1 p.m.
The afternoon will begin with a rosary in the rosary garden at 12:30 p.m., weather permitting. Wear the Daughters of Isabella shirts. There will be a social after the meeting. If you know of a member or a member of their family in need of the circle’s prayers, contact Theresa Smith-Lawton at (785) 6401403. If you are interested in or would like more information about the Daughters of Isabella, contact Marilyn Unrein at (785) 2308448 or Cindy Keen at (785) 228-9863.
ANNUNCIATION SPRING DINNER Cigna Center 402 N. Maple, Frankfort April 22 from 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
The cost of dinner is $10 for adults and $5 for kids ages 10 and under. There will be meatballs, cheesy potatoes and other sides. Takeout meals will be available, with delivery in Frankfort. Call the parish office during the morning hours at (785) 292-4462. There will be baked goods, crafts and much more for sale. All proceeds benefit Annunciation Parish.
POTLUCK DINNER Most Pure Heart of Mary (Formation Room) 3601 S.W. 17th St., Topeka April 26 from 5 - 7 p.m.
The Christian widow and widowers organization will host a potluck dinner. There is no cost to attend. For more information, call (785) 233-7350.
A TIME TO WALK WITH GOD Community of the Lamb Monastery 36 S. Boeke St., Kansas City, Kansas April 9 at 7:45 p.m.
The Community of the Lamb invites young adults (ages 18 - 35) on a walking pilgrimage in the footsteps of St. Rose Philippine Duchesne. There will be an informational meeting at the monastery of the Community of the Lamb. The dates for the pilgrimage will be April 27 - 29.
SYMPTO-THERMAL METHOD OF NATURAL FAMILY PLANNING Topeka April 28 at 7 p.m.
A reasonable course fee is charged and online registration is required at: www.ccli. org. Call Dana or Eric Runnebaum at (785) 380-0062 for more information, including the class location and the availability of self-paced, online classes. Learn more about this NFP class online at: nfptopeka.blogspot. com.
GIFT OF FINEST W***T St. Michael the Archangel Parish (lower level) 14251 Nall Ave., Leawood April 25 at 7 p.m.
This will be a practical and spiritual conference for those with wheat or gluten intolerance or celiac disease and those who love them. Michael Podrebarac, consultant for liturgy and sacramental life of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, will present the options available to those who have difficulties with wheat and gluten. For more information, contact Janel Butler at (913) 402-3948 or by email at: janel.butler@stmichaelcp.org.
LADIES OF CHARITY SYMPHONY DESIGNERS’ SHOWHOUSE 445 W. 56th St., Kansas City, Missouri April 30 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
The Ladies of Charity of Metropolitan KC will host a private showing of the 2018 Symphony Designers’ Showhouse. Tour this stately 103-year-old home, enjoy a boxed lunch and raffle, and shop at the unique KCSA boutique. The cost to attend is $35 per person and helps support the charity beneficiaries: Duchesne Clinic, Seton Center and Villa St. Francis. To register, mail a check, payable to “Ladies of Charity,” before April 15 to Karen Camarata, 5508 W. 129th St., Overland Park KS 66209. For more information, call Shannon Clifford at (913) 681-6431.
FAMILY SPECIAL-NEEDS SUMMER CAMP Prairie Star Ranch 1124 California Rd., Williamsburg June 29 - July 1
A summer camp for families who have a child (or children) with special needs will be held. For information about the camp, go online to: www.archkck.org/specialneeds for details or call Tom Racunas, lead consultant for the special-needs ministry, at (913) 647-3054 or send an email to: tracunas@ archkck.org.
SAINT THOMAS AQUINAS’ GRADE SCHOOL SUMMER CAMPS St. Thomas Aquinas High School 11411 Pflumm Rd., Overland Park June and July
There will be a variety of summer camps for students entering grades K - 8 to explore and discover their potential in both sports and other activities. Information about the camps and registration forms are available on the website at: www.stasaints.net/ summer camps. If you have questions, call the athletic office at (913) 319-2416 or send an email to: btriggs@stasaints.net.
PILGRIMAGE Sanctuary of Hope Retreat Center 2601 Ridge Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Aug. 10 - 12
Father Joseph Arsenault, SSA, will lead a pilgrimage to the Marian shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Lacrosse, Wisconsin. Participants will leave from the Sanctuary of Hope Retreat Center. Pilgrimages to holy places help us on the most important pilgrimage of all: our journey through our human life on earth to our eternal destination with God in heaven. For more information, call Julie at (913) 321-4673; send an email to: julie@ sanctuaryofhope.org; or go to the website at: www.sanctuaryofhope.org.
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>> Continued from page 12 Rodman Lawn Care Lawn mowing, aeration, verticutting, mulching, Hedge trimming, leaf removal, gutter cleaning Fully insured and free estimates John Rodman (913) 548-3002
FOR SALE For sale – 2000 Wurlitzer grand piano; $5000; model C-143 ATP. An excellent value on a quality grand. No scratches or marks on this beautiful instrument. It has a player attached, so the piano will play by itself. Call Sharon at (913) 485-6317. For sale – Double indoor Abbey in the newest building at Resurrection Cemetery, Lenexa. Blessed Mother Corridor, #24A. Selling for $9800, transfer fee included. Call Ross at (913) 707-7368. For sale - Two internal side-by-side crypts in the Mausoleum at Resurrection Cemetery. Call (913) 631-4348 for pricing. For sale - Located in Floral Hills Cemetery at 7000 Blue Ridge Blvd., KCMO. Four plots located in the Garden Of Prayer in section 11, lot 18, markers 24, 25, 26 and 27. Asking $2800 per lot. We are willing to negotiate pricing if you would want all four lots. Call Lilly at (816) 501-8053 or (918) 964-7079. For sale - Double mausoleum at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. St. John Corridor, tier A, crypt 6. Asking $10,000. Call Janet at (913) 522-0489. For sale - Double lawn crypt at Resurrection Cemetery in Lenexa, Garden of Hope section, double lawn crypt, lot 78 C, space 4. Conveyance fee included. $7500. Call Lou at (512) 294-2869. Residential lifts - New and recycled. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. St. Michael’s parishioners. KC Lift & Elevator at (913) 327-5557. (Formerly Silver Cross - KC)
CAREGIVING Situation wanted - Retired nurse private duty care plus has CNA and CMA. Available 24/7. Has experience in cosmetology and Swedish massage. Has hospice background. Call (913) 938-4765. $25 per hour, Hope for Veterans. Superior personalized care. Call Ilene Jun, (913) 701-6381. No agencies. Looking for assisted living at home? - Before you move, call us and explore our in-home care options. We specialize in helping families live safely at home while saving thousands of dollars per year. Call today for more information or to request a FREE home care planning guide. Benefits of Home - Senior Care, www.benefitsofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591 Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation for seniors in their home, assisted living or nursing facilities. We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Laurie, Pat or Gary. Medication management - DID YOU KNOW taking the wrong medication is the leading reason for falls and nursing home moves? We can help. Our RN will do a biweekly patient health check, fill the pill boxes properly, review your medication list and contact doctors if needed. Get peace of mind! Call Home Meds at (913) 627-9222 and learn about our medication solutions that allow you to continue to live safely at home. Just like family - Let us care for your loved ones in their homes. Two ladies with over 50 years’ combined experience. Looking for night shift coverage, some days. Great price, great references. Both experienced with hospice care. Call Kara at (913) 3431602 or Ophelia at (913) 570-7276.
WANTED TO BUY Will buy firearms and related accessories - One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee.
REAL ESTATE Whole Estates Need to sell a home and everything in it? We buy it all at once in as-is condition. Call (816) 444-1950 or send an email to: www.wholeestates.com. I NEED HOUSES! - We are members of Holy Trinity Parish and we pay cash for any real estate without any Realtor commissions or fees. If you would like an easy, no-hassle sale at a fair price, please call me. We have 13 years of experience. Mark Edmondson (913) 980-4905.
APRIL 13, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
COMMENTARY THIRD WEEK OF EASTER April 15 THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER Acts 3: 13-15, 17-19 Ps 4: 2, 4, 7-9 1 Jn 2: 1-5a Lk 24: 35-48 April 16 Monday Acts 6: 8-15 Ps 119: 23-24, 26-27, 29-30 Jn 6: 22-29 April 17 Tuesday Acts 7:51 – 8:1a Ps 31: 3cd-4, 6ab, 7b, 8a, 17, 21ab Jn 6: 30-35 April 18 Wednesday Acts 8: 1b-8 Ps 66: 1-3a, 4-7a Jn 6: 35-40 April 19 Thursday Acts 8: 26-40 Ps 66: 8-9, 16-17, 20 Jn 6: 44-51 April 20 Friday Acts 9: 1-20 Ps 117: 1-2 Jn 6: 52-59 April 21 Anselm, bishop, doctor of the church Acts 9: 31-42 Ps 116: 12-17 Jn 6: 60-69
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ere’s the conversation that my mom and I had this past Palm Sunday, as we were driving to get something to eat: Me: Hey, Mom, next Sunday is Easter and it’s April 1. Mom: It’s April?!? My birthday’s in April! Me: That’s right. What day? Mom: April 12. Me: You got it. Now, how old will you be? Mom: 90? (I shake my head.) 100?!. Me: Yup, you’ll be 100! Mom: Don’t tell anybody! Well, as much as I like to be obedient, that last request came a bit too late. I didn’t say anything at the time, but I was thinking: “Oops!” This past Sunday, my parish marked Mom’s birthday in song at the end of Mass and then hosted a cake and punch reception. She was overcome with tears — happy ones — and gratitude for the good folks at Sacred Heart. A lot happened in 1918, the year Mom was born: • The first recorded
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The first 100 are the hardest 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.
case of the Spanish flu was reported at Funston Army Camp in Kansas; it went on to kill 50-100 million worldwide. • The Bolshevik Party became the Communist Party. • “The Red Baron” was shot down and killed. • World War I officially came to a close. • Benedict XV was the pope and John Ward was the bishop of the Diocese of Leavenworth. The changes that my mom has seen in her lifetime are staggering.
I’ve given up trying to explain all the new technology to her and just tell her, for example, that all my iPhone does is due to “magic.” The definite highlight of her week is coming to Sunday Mass. It does her heart good to see a full church and she loves to give the kids a lowfive. If the kids are too gentle, she says, “Oh, c’mon, you can do better than that!” And they do, smacking Mom’s hand, much to the dismay of their parents. Mom soothes the parents’ fears by saying, “I told them to do that!” She wears her reddened palm as a badge of honor. Although she never eats much afterwards at the restaurant, she
loves to take in the atmosphere. She marvels at how full it is and wonders if anybody eats at home anymore. And she never fails to say, “Who would think I’d see all this? If you asked me what a restaurant was when I was growing up, I couldn’t tell you!” How true. With six brothers and a sister, there was no extra money to go out to eat. That’s probably why Mom says she’s so “partickly” (“particular”) when it comes to food. Mom’s diet consists of nothing green, no cheese, no gravy, no condiments, no pizza — and definitely no food touching any other food on the plate. Her menu mainly consists of eggs, bread, meat, chocolate, chicken fingers and fries, and pop. Lots of pop . . . and lots of chocolate. My mom’s secrets to longevity are really not that hard to guess. First, she’s grateful, especially for all of the wonderful people who have been a part of her life. She’s had a close family, wonderful neighbors and caring friends
too numerous to count. Secondly, she’s kept a great sense of humor, which helps her to adapt to changing situations, especially as she’s gotten older. Thirdly, she’s known to break out in song, ending with a hearty “Woohoohoo!” Fourth, she’s terribly proud of her Croatian heritage and home parish of St. John the Baptist in Kansas City, Kansas. She still feels the prayerful support and love of parishioners on the Hill. Most importantly, she proclaims, “There is a God!” to explain all of the blessings she’s experienced. In her room, she’s surrounded by a cross, an icon and a host of angel figurines. Her faith remains her anchor and most prized possession. I feel very blessed to have had this “Energizer Bunny” for a mom these many years! And in case you’re wondering how old I am, I’ll give you a hint: Mom had me when she was 75. (That’s my story and I’m sticking to it!)
Like disciples, first communicants break bread with Jesus
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ood plays a major role in parish life. Who can imagine a youth group meeting without snacks? A potluck will almost always draw a large crowd. And many parishes will serve coffee and doughnuts after Sunday Mass, at least once in a while. Food also played a major role in the life of Jesus and his disciples during his ministry on earth. Sunday’s Gospel reading, Lk 24:35-48, offers us a good example of that. It begins with the two disciples who encountered the risen Christ on the road to Emmaus recounting to the assembled disciples “how Jesus was made known to them in the breaking of bread.”
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.
Soon afterwards, the risen Christ appears in their midst. To show that Jesus is flesh and blood and not a ghost,
POPE FRANCIS
The final words at Mass — “Go in peace” — are an invitation to Christians to proclaim God’s blessings through their lives, not an opportunity to go outside and speak ill of others, Pope Francis said. Through the Eucharist, Jesus “enters in our hearts and in our flesh so that we
the disciples “gave him a piece of baked fish; he took it and ate it in front of them.” These two food items in the appearances of the risen Christ stand out because they echo an important miracle in Jesus’ ministry. Jesus took five loaves of bread and two fish and multiplied them to feed the hungry crowd (Mt 14:13-21; Mark 6:32-44;
Lk 9:10b-17; Jn 6:1-13). Notice that this most important event receives attention in all four Gospels. That underlines its significance. Most of Jesus’ miracles involved healing the sick. In contrast, the miracle of the multiplication of the loaves and the fish distinguishes itself by addressing another physical need, that for food. At the same time, it points to our need for spiritual nourishment, which is satisfied by the Eucharist. In today’s Gospel reading, the risen Christ twice shares a meal with the disciples. Now, in the Eucharist, the risen Christ continues to share a meal with us. That meal looks forward to the banquet feast of heaven.
may express in our lives the sacrament we received in faith,” the pope said during his weekly general audience in St. Peter’s Square April 4. “But if we leave the church gossiping, saying, ‘Look at this one, look at that one,’ with a loose tongue, the Mass has not entered into my heart. Why? Because I am not able to live the Christian witness,” he said.
These Sundays of the Easter season are a favorite time for parishes to hold first Communion. That is altogether appropriate. It is perfect for young people to encounter the risen Christ for the first time, to share a meal with him, as the disciples did so long ago. This happens, not only for those making their first Communion, but for all of us who receive the bread come down from heaven. The risen Christ continues to nourish us with his body and blood, the same body which rose from the dead on Easter Sunday. That is our encounter with the risen Lord, which we can experience again and again.
“Every time I leave Mass, I must leave better than when I entered, with more life, with greater strength, with a greater desire to give Christian witness.” An estimated 20,000 pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square dressed in bright ponchos and holding umbrellas to shield themselves from the cold rain. — CNS
APRIL 13, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
COMMENTARY
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Step back into the rhythm of the life we were meant for
esus himself gave his life, so that we might be with him forever. Forever does not start at our death. Jesus’ desire for closeness is both literally now and forever. Jesus wants deep, personal conversation with you today and forever. He talks to us in the Scriptures read at Mass. He talks as you prayerfully read Scripture in your easy chair and sitting by a lake. God whispers a lot, and in many ways. He listens as well. He listens as we pray our meal and evening prayers. He hears our cries of loneliness. Throughout time, God has never abandoned
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SEEKING CHRIST’S HEART
DEACON DANA NEARMYER Deacon Dana Nearmyer is the director of evangelization for the archdiocese.
his people; he is brokenhearted that we often feel abandoned and alone. He
passionately wants us to dial into both his speaking and listening frequency. Camp Tekakwitha is an excellent place for us to dial into both his speaking and listening frequencies. Whether at our new special-needs family camp, fifth- and sixth-grade camps, junior high camp, family
camp or our high school Max and Extreme camps, we work to dial into both his speaking and listening frequency. We drop down the compression of modern life. We are in nature. We can see the stars and hear the birds. We listen to each other and to God. We talk to each other and to God. We make space to pray before our adventures, to process the experience and then to thank God for the gift of our adventures. Camp has a healthy rhythm of faith, friends and fun. Away from camp, campers carry a template of that rhythm with them. In modern living, that rhythm is often lost, compressed
or unrecognizable because we prioritize volume over relationship. Recently, our family had five soccer games, a wedding reception, two basketball games, a concert, Mass, a birthday party and many errands to complete all in one weekend. It is tough to divide and conquer and not collapse after a while. Camp reminds us to celebrate each other and to drink in the moments, even when our schedule gets lopsided. By praying before the activities, celebrating each other, and laughing and having fun, we grow closer to God and each other, rather than growing apart.
Many of our past counselors and campers are raising families that treasure a template that seeks the rhythms of faith, friends and fun. They have brought a culture of both speaking and listening to God and each other into their lives and homes. We would love to host your loved ones at Camp Tekakwitha this summer. Check out our website and video at: www.archkck.org/ camp. A former camper made this touching video about what camp means to him and his friends years after being campers. Please check it out at: youtu.be/6OoXXf DimVw.
Catholic schools are fortunately free to teach the truth
ear friends of Catholic schools, “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation” (Acts 2:40). This verse from one of the recent daily Mass readings struck me. The Scripture says that Peter was “exhorting” the Jewish people after the crucifixion of Jesus. When they asked him, “What are we to do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ, for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” The verse struck me for many reasons, but
FROM THE SUPER
KATHY O’HARA Kathy O’Hara is the superintendent of archdiocesan schools.
especially because I had just read an article by Suzanne Venker entitled “Dating 101: Film takes
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aim at America’s hookup culture and the death of courtship.” It highlights a film, “The Dating Project,” that will be released nationwide for one night on April 17. The anchor of the film is Boston College philosophy professor Kerry
Cronin, who noticed a lack of traditional dating on campus and began to study the current social culture. Apparently, the film explores “bogus relationship ideals” with which young people have been indoctrinated, including “casual sex is both normal and good.” Venker concludes her article by saying that “the film ends on a hopeful note that things can be turned around.” Sometimes, I feel like the little boy in the fable “The Emperor Has No Clothes,” because when I read about what is happening to turn our children away from what is not only morally but
also scientifically true, I cannot understand why our society so readily accepts it. So much of the gender ideology that is being incorporated into public school curriculum, social work and health care is not grounded in science. In fact, science refutes the ideology. I wonder why no one is saying, “The emperor has no clothes.” Are we afraid of being accused of having no compassion? In the most bizarre twist of the truth, are we afraid of being “unchristian”? This brings me back to the Scripture reading. I am so grateful that our Catholic Church continues to be guided by the
Holy Spirit to proclaim the truth with joy. I am grateful that our Catholic schools are free to teach and form our young people in St. John Paul II’s theology of the body. We are free to teach our students that the church’s teachings are grounded in the self-giving love that Jesus demonstrated on the cross. I am grateful that when our students are challenged in this culture, we can teach them to call upon the Holy Spirit for understanding and guidance, so that they will be able to lead lives of true love and joy. ¡Vaya con Dios!
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APRIL 13, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
16
CHAMPIONS OF THE COMMUNITY
Holy Spirit earns two consecutive awards from Down Syndrome Guild By Susan Fotovich McCabe Special to The Leaven
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VERLAND PARK — Some say teaching is a thankless job. But for Katy Hazen, a firstgrade teacher at Holy Spirit School in Overland Park, there is no greater thanks than being named a Community Champion by the Down Syndrome Guild of Greater Kansas City (DSG). In March, Hazen was one of 21 Kansas City-area individuals awarded the honor by DSG. Susanne Conrad, the mother of one of Hazen’s students, 6-year-old Clare, nominated Hazen. Clare has Down syndrome and benefits from Hazen’s patience and willingness to think outside the box for all of Clare’s needs, she said. “She has done a remarkable job advancing Clare’s skills in very creative ways,” Conrad wrote in her nomination. “I greatly appreciate her positivity and patience as we work to fix and improve behaviors.” “I’m so thankful that she doesn’t limit Clare,” the nomination continued, “and that she allows her to try things, but with the understanding that a backup plan may be needed.” Each year, DSG recognizes 21 Community Champions doing amazing work to support its members as part of the organization’s celebration of World Down Syndrome Day on March 21. Members are encouraged to nominate a teacher, therapist, doctor, family friend, baby sitter, legislator, coach or any other important person who is making a difference in the lives of people with Down syndrome. DSG released a video honoring its champions to mark the occasion. Hazen, who has taught first grade at Holy Spirit for the last seven years, has had other students with special needs in her class. This is the first time, however, Hazen has taught a student with Down syndrome. She credits Clare’s success to a team approach, which relies on the collaboration of Clare’s family, Holy Spirit principal Michele Watson, DSG and the resource centers at Holy Spirit and Church of the Nativity in Leawood. “I had Clare’s older sisters in class and I know her family so well that I wanted to be Clare’s teacher,” Hazen said. “The DSG is just a phone call away, and I’ve learned so much from Clare herself. “Clare has taught me that sometimes I just need to back off and not hover too much.” Hazen is actually the second Holy Spirit teacher to win the award. In 2017, Clare’s kindergarten teacher Nicole
LEAVEN PHOTOS BY DOUG HESSE
Above, Katy Hazen, right, a first-grade teacher at Holy Spirit School in Overland Park, was named a Community Champion by the Down Syndrome Guild of Greater Kansas City. DSG volunteer coordinator Elaine Perilla, left, reads the nomination letter aloud to the entire school during a special assembly for the award. Right, Hazen stands with Clare and her mother Susanne Conrad. Conrad nominated Hazen for the Community Champion honor for Hazen’s work with Clare.
Richter was awarded the same honor. She echoed Hazen’s sentiments. “When Clare came to kindergarten,” Richter said, “it wasn’t just her who needed us; it was us who needed her.” “After being a teacher for 10 years,” she added, “which isn’t a whole lot, you think you know your craft well and become a bit comfortable. “Having Clare in my class was a reminder to me that I will never know all that I should as a teacher and I must keep learning every day, just like I teach my kids to do.” “She was giving us the gift of understanding and acceptance, which is what we try to instill in our kids,” continued Richter. “She was a living example of acceptance and understanding, and we
are eternally grateful for it.” DSG volunteer coordinator Elaine Perilla read Susanne’s nomination letter aloud to the entire school during a special assembly for the award, and then presented Hazen with a gift certificate. Hazen also thanked her support staff of paraprofessionals in helping Clare reach her goals. “Mrs. Hazen has proven herself this
year as a beautiful Christian teacher that displays virtues that are very admirable,” Susanne wrote. “Thank you for loving my child the same way you love all the rest of them.” “You challenge them all to be better students and people,” she wrote. “Thank you for being a role model for me as well as the students.”