04 14 17 Vol. 38 No. 34

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 38, NO. 34 | APRIL 14, 2017

Alleluia!

Christ has burst forth from his imprisonment in the grave.

May you be delivered from all fear and sin as you celebrate his resurrection with great joy and thanksgiving. + JOSEPH F. NAUMANN Archbishop of Kansas City in Kansas

BE ILL EN E W AV EK ER LE E TH O XT W N NE

+ JAMES P. KELEHER Archbishop Emeritus of Kansas City in Kansas

APRIL 14, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

O

Faith needed to heal the gaping holes in our souls

n Saturday night a few weeks ago, while eating a late night snack, I broke off one of my teeth at the gum line. It was the tooth immediately adjacent to my right front tooth.

It left a very visible gaping hole in my mouth.

The next morning I was scheduled to make a pastoral visit to St. Paul Parish. I became keenly aware of my vanity as I was very self-conscious about the gap in my upper teeth. I was hesitant to smile as this exposed even more my missing tooth.

I have an incredible dentist who came in on Sunday afternoon to glue my broken tooth back into place until a more permanent solution could be accomplished.

My tooth problems actually occasioned for me a helpful Lenten meditation. The immediate cause of the fracture of my tooth was a piece of bacon. However, the true causes were a lifetime of poor eating choices coupled with the absence of consistent flossing. This tooth had several cavities over the years that eventually rendered it so fragile that it was fractured by something as harmless as a piece of bacon.

This is probably more information than you care to know about my oral hygiene.

However, it got me thinking about parallels with my spiritual life.

Oftentimes, our moral compromises can seem in isolation somewhat minuscule and insignificant, like failing to floss or eating too many double-stuffed Golden Oreos.

At the time, choices to indulge selfish inclinations rather than care for the needs of others, or decisions that value something or someone more than our relationship with God, do not seem all that important.

Yet, when these become patterns of behavior, they create moral decay that can be disguised

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN and temporarily repaired but actually are hollowing out the moral strength of our souls, leaving them vulnerable to collapse even under relatively weak pressure.

Without some lifestyle changes, these moral compromises (sins) can leave us with some gaping holes in our moral character that become quite impossible to hide and very difficult to repair.

Would that I was as concerned with these gaps in my moral integrity as with missing a prominent tooth!

At Easter, we celebrate the victory of Jesus over sin and death. Most of us readily understand the need to be liberated from the finality of death. As we grow older, the fragility of life and our mortality become more and more apparent. There are not many people who fail to welcome a Savior that can rescue them from the jaws of death.

However, when it comes to sin, it is easy to choose the path of denial. Some have described our time as a post-truth and post-virtue era. In our culture, more and more people deny there are objective moral truths. For many, ethical choices are based on feelings rather than conformity to an objective moral code.

Last year, there was a very revealing YouTube video featuring a 5-foot-10-inch Caucasian male interviewer on a secular campus in the Northwest who

asked students for their reaction to his claim to be a woman. Every student concurred that if that is who he thought he was, then they had no problem accepting him as a female.

The interviewer kept pushing the students with additional claims that obviously defied objective reality. Finally, when he claimed to be a 7-foot-2-inch Chinese woman, a couple of the students at least hesitated to accept this outrageous assertion.

This video is a powerful illustration of the logical consequences of the post-truth philosophy that subscribes to the absurd notion that you can have your truth and I can have my truth, even if they contradict each other. In such a universe, there is no real truth, but rather truth can be whatever each individual conceives it to be.

With such a worldview, there can be no objective, universal moral law. There can be no sin, since all behavior can be justified by our feeling a choice is right for us. My choices need not conform to the Ten Commandments or any other moral code.

What makes a choice morally right is solely how I feel about it.

This is quite different than traditional Catholic moral teaching that correctly holds my moral culpability may be diminished or negated if I do something that is objectively wrong, but I am not aware that it is evil.

The moral principles remain true even if I am unaware of them and their application to my particular choice.

The Catholic moral tradition also recogniz-

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es the reality of natural law that means there are certain moral truths that we do not need to be taught because they are inscribed upon the heart of every human being. We know instinctually in our conscience that killing an innocent human being or stealing another’s property or committing adultery is wrong. However, if our only moral compass is what makes us feel good, then it is possible to rationalize and justify most any choice.

I love my dentist. No matter how difficult a dental problem I present to him, he is able to find a creative way to restore the well-being of my mouth!

Our Christian faith allows us to face honestly the gaping holes in our souls. It gives the courage to acknowledge honestly our sin.

The beauty of our Catholic faith is no matter how bad our sin and the moral decay resulting from it, Jesus can heal and restore the health of our souls.

During the Lenten season many, many people in the Archdiocese took advantage of the sacrament of reconciliation and its power to heal and restore health to our hearts. The Octave of Easter, the Sunday immediately following Easter, is Divine Mercy Sunday. The Gospel for this Sunday reminds us how Easter night God empowered the apostles to continue his ministry of mercy and healing.

If you have not received the sacrament of reconciliation during the Lenten season, I encourage you to take advantage of the sacrament during the celebration of Divine Mercy. Frequent and sincere reception of this sacrament of mercy can keep our souls healthy and protected from the weakening and corrosive effects of our sin.

Take advantage of the sacrament of reconciliation and you will have every reason spiritually to smile.

ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN April 14 Good Friday service — Cathedral April 15 Holy Saturday Mass — Cathedral April 16 Easter Sunday Mass — Cathedral April 18 “Shepherd’s Voice” recording Priests Personnel meeting Administrative Team meeting Catholic Education Foundation Futures meeting April 19 Curia meeting — Savior Pastoral Center, Kansas City, Kansas St. Lawrence Center board meeting

April 20 Vespers and dinner with priests ordained in the last five years April 21 Stewardship Symposium Mass — Savior Pastoral Center, Kansas City, Kansas Confirmation — Holy Trinity, Lenexa April 22 Women’s Catholic Conference Mass — Church of the Ascension, Overland Park Abbot’s Table — Sheraton Crown Center

April 23 RCIA Mass — Benedictine College, Atchison April 24-25 Jesus Caritas bishops’ retreat April 25 Confirmation — Church of the Ascension, Overland Park

April 26 Johnson County Vocation Day — St. Michael the Archangel, Leawood Catholic Education Foundation board meeting Confirmation — Church of the Ascension, Overland Park

April 27 Mundelein Seminary board meeting, Chicago April 29 Charism of the Community of the Lamb — Bishop Ward High School April 30 Scout Mass — Cathedral Conference for pastoral planning and council development Mass — Savior Pastoral Center, Kansas City, Kansas

ARCHBISHOP KELEHER April 14 Good Friday service — Cathedral April 16 Mass — Sisters, Servants of Mary April 19 Confirmation — St. Joseph, Wilmette, Illinois April 21 Stewardship Symposium Mass — Savior Pastoral Center, Kansas City, Kansas Confirmation — Holy Trinity, Lenexa April 22 Abbot’s Table April 23 Confirmation — St. Joseph, Shawnee April 24 Confirmation — St. Agnes, Roeland Park

April 30 Confirmation — St. Sebastian, Florida

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APRIL 14, 2017

LOCAL NEWS

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Three families will join the Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil at Most Pure Heart of Mary Church in Topeka. Just as Christ stretches his arms out in the statue that stands in the parish center, the three families said the parish and its grade school have opened their arms to all of them. Back row, from left, are: Stephanie Matthews; Kevin and Shannon Gregg; and Laura and Josh Mayer. Front row, from left, are: Emma and Kayden Matthews; Maddie, Dylan and Kaylee Gregg; and Ben Mayer.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY MARC ANDERSON

‘LET THE CHILDREN COME TO ME’ Three families will ‘get a restart’ this Easter

By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

T

OPEKA — It’s a Christmas wish come true.

That’s what Kaylee Gregg said about her family’s plans for Easter week-

end.

In the weeks leading up to Christmas, Kaylee gave her Christmas list to her parents, Kevin and Shannon Gregg.

They did not know how it would change the entire family.

“Kaylee put on her Christmas list that she wanted to be Catholic,” Shannon said.

She and her husband, along with their three children — Dylan, Kaylee and Maddie — will join the Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil at Most Pure Heart of Mary Church in southwest Topeka.

While it might seem unusual for an entire family to be received into the faith at the same time, the Gregg family won’t be the only one. Josh and Laura Mayer and their son Ben will also become Catholic, as will Craig Matthews, Stefanie Matthews, and daughters Kayden and Emma.

After receiving their daughter’s Christmas list, Shannon said she and Kevin realized they had to do something.

“I looked at Kevin, and I said, ‘I think we better get started on this now,’” she recalled.

The rest, the couple said, was easy.

The kids were nearly halfway through

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

their first year at the parish grade school, a decision made to allow them to attend school with their cousins. More importantly, it turned out to be the perfect place for their children to start learning about God and Christian values.

“They really started it, and they keep us going,” Kevin said.

The children come home every night and share prayers and Bible stories, and it’s the children who keep the family on track for mealtime prayers and Lenten sacrifices.

Although the Greggs had to play catch up to the regular class, instructors Karen Madden and Kristi Gosser, pastor Father Greg Hammes, and associate pastor Father Jonathon Dizon helped make it work.

“They just welcome you in,” Shannon said.

That welcoming attitude is one Laura and Josh Mayer said they found appealing, too.

Although the couple was not Catholic, their son has attended the parish grade school since preschool.

“His education has always been Catholic,” Laura said.

Baptized as a member of a Congregational church, Laura said her early faith life was influenced by her grandfather.

“My grandfather was a minister for the United Church of Christ,” she said, “so that’s how I kind of came into my religion.”

Yet, the Catholic Church was always on her mind.

“I remember asking to come to

Catholic school when I was younger,” she said.

“I liked the traditions that Catholicism had, so I think that’s why we primarily put [Ben] into this preschool,” she continued. “And everything kind of just followed where it made it more comfortable for us to go to Mass.”

Practicing the faith, Josh said, can be challenging.

“I would not say I struggle much with accepting anything. It’s more about putting it into practice,” he said. “I kind of believed in a lot of it to begin with.”

While Laura will be received into full communion as a member of the Catholic faith, Josh and Ben, 6, will be baptized.

“I get my sins washed away when I get baptized. I get a restart,” the first-grader said.

Getting a restart, said Stefanie Matthews, sounds great. She will be baptized, as will her two daughters. The girls’ father, Craig, will be received into full communion.

“I never went into a church. My parents never made us go to church,” Stefanie said. She and Craig have been led by their children.

Due to food intolerances, Emma, now 7, spent a lot of time in her young life at Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, Missouri. She spent part of that time reading the Bible.

Like the other children, Emma attends the parish grade school, as does her sister Kayden.

‘We ended up here,” Stephanie said.

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

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org

Reporter Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

Advertising Coordinator Beth Blankenship beth.blankenship@theleaven.org

“Their cousins all go here.

“You have a chance to take any journey with your child, and this is what they wanted.

“And we were on board.”

Every day, she said, the kids come home and talk about what they’re learning about God and the Christian life.

Stephanie said it’s clear her daughters take their relationship with Jesus seriously. Oftentimes, when she finds herself losing patience, one of them will say, “Well, I’m praying for you.”

Not only are Stephanie’s children praying for her, but she said they inspire her almost daily.

For example, Emma said she’s excited to be baptized because she will become a child of Jesus.

Kayden said she’s looking forward to her first holy Communion.

“Jesus gets to be in my body,” she said.

The Gregg children said they, too, are excited to be joining the Catholic Church this Easter.

Dylan, 12, said he looks forward to making his first Communion with his sisters. He’s learned a lot about God so far, but the most important thing he’s learned is how much Jesus loves him.

Maddie, 8, said she’s excited to be baptized like her older siblings.

“I get to be close to Jesus, and I get to be one of his children,” she said.

For Kaylee, the Easter Vigil will finally fulfill that Christmas wish she made.

“I still have the list,” she said with a big smile.

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

For change of address, provide old and new address and parish. Subscriptions $21/year. Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.

APRIL 14, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY T

Sacred Heart Church

St. Patrick Parish

Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish

he following churches will have a Divine Mercy celebration on April 23 unless otherwise noted.

27 Cottonwood, Emporia 3-4 p.m. Confessions, scriptural rosary, and Divine Mercy chaplet

1086 N. 94th, Kansas City, Kansas 3:30 p.m. Holy Hour The hour will include eucharistic adoration, a reflection, quotes from the diary of St. Faustina and the Divine Mercy chaplet.

7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park 3 p.m. Holy Hour with the enthronement

Holy Angels Parish

15408 Leavenworth Rd., Basehor 3 p.m. Hour of Divine Mercy Multiple confessors will be available during exposition of Blessed Sacrament with chaplet of Divine Mercy prayed

Cathedral of St. Peter

409 N. 15th St., Kansas City, Kansas 2:15 p.m. procession and Holy Hour with Divine Mercy chaplet. Dinner will follow.

St. John Paul II Parish

St. Benedict Church

(Madison Place Elementary School gym, 16651 Warwick St., Olathe) 9:45 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Eucharistic adoration and Divine Mercy chaplet

1000 N. 2nd St., Atchison Beginning Good Friday and continuing through Divine Mercy Sunday 3 p.m. pray the Divine Mercy novena each day

Church of the Ascension

9510 W. 127th, Overland Park 3 p.m. Holy Hour with Divine Mercy chaplet sung

St. Michael the Archangel 14251 Nall Ave., Leawood 3 p.m. Holy Hour

Immaculate Conception Church Holy Spirit Parish

11300 W. 103rd, Overland Park 2-3 p.m. Confessions in the church 3-4 p.m. Holy Hour

Christ the King

3024 N. 53rd St., Kansas City, Kansas 2 p.m. Confessions 3 p.m. Chaplet 3:15 p.m. Mass

711 N. 5th St., Leavenworth 3 p.m. Holy Hour

Holy Trinity Parish (stone chapel) 13615 W. 92nd St., Lenexa 2-3 p.m. Holy Hour 2:20 p.m. Rosary 3 p.m. Chaplet of Divine Mercy and Benediction Ice cream social immediately following

Marilyn and Raymond O’Neil, members of St. Malachy Parish, Beattie, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on April 15.

The couple was married in 1967 at St. Michael Parish, Axtell, by Father Denis Pickert, Father William Nelligan and Father William Lobeck. Their children are: Kelly Murray, Arlington, Virginia; Sheila Sillitto, Roswell, Georgia; and Mary Pat Rick, New Berlin, Wisconsin. They also have eight grandchildren. They celebrated their anniversary with family and friends.

(Scanlan) and Bob Winterscheidt, members of Immaculate C o n ce p t i o n -St. Joseph Parish, Leavenworth, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on April 22 with Mass at 4 p.m., followed by dinner with their family. The couple was married on April 22, 1957, at St. Michael Church in Chapman. Their children are: Danny Winterscheidt, Ann Lord, Lori Youngworth, Teresa Lemke and Larry Winterscheidt.

They also have 19 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Dick and Carol (Navinskey) Erpelding, members of St. Benedict Parish, Atchison, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on April 22. The couple was married on April 22, 1957, at Sacred Heart Church, Atchison,

by Father Valerian Berger, OSB. Their children are: Patricia McLenon, Janelle Wohletz, Lori Kloepper, Melissa Eckert and Rick Erpelding. They also have 13 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. They will celebrate with family at a later date.

Mary Jane and Regis Schmitz, members of Sacred H e a r t Parish, Baileyville, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a dinner for family and friends. The couple was married on April 15, 1967, at St. Bede Church, Kelly, by Father Vincent Wavada.

Their children are: Randy, Brian, Kevin, Darin, Dean, Lance, Jason, Aaron and Bret.

They also have six grandchildren.

Elaine

Good Shepherd Parish 12800 W. 75th, Shawnee 2 p.m. Holy Hour

Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish 3601 S.W. 17th St., Topeka 1 p.m-2:45 p.m. Confessions 3 p.m. Holy Hour The service will include a processional of the monstrance, homily and recitation of the chaplet of Divine Mercy.

St. Pius X Parish

5500 Woodson Rd., Mission 3 p.m. Benediction, eucharistic adoration and sung chaplet of Divine Mercy

Robert and Mary Ann Dercher, St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on April 22.

The couple was married on April 22, 1957, in Crawford, Nebraska, at St. John the Baptist Church.

Their children are: Laura Dercher Ludwick, Vicki Dercher and Sharry Dercher. They also have one granddaughter.

ANNIVERSARY POLICY

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

• Announcements are due eight days before the desired publication date.

• Announcements must be typed.

Include the following Information: • 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; Send notices to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, attn: anniversaries; or send an email to: todd.habiger@theleaven.org.

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Women’s conference features dynamic duo

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Two dynamic speakers will give presentations at the third annual “Living in Truth 2017” — Kansas City Catholic Women’s Conference.

The conference, from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on April 22, will be held at the Church of the Ascension, 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park.

“We’re getting women together to celebrate our faith and — as St. Pope John Paul II spoke of — the ‘feminine genius,’” said Linda Spencer, one of the conference organizers. “This conference is for women Sue Ellen Browder who want to learn and grow in their Catholic faith.

Women are very important in building a better society and culture.”

The half-day event will begin with Mass celebrated by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, followed by a continental breakfast.

Jennifer Next will be presenRoback Morse tations by Sue Ellen Browder and Jennifer Roback Morse.

Browder, who worked on the staff of Cosmopolitan magazine in the 1970s, will talk about her roles as a participant and witness to the debasement of American culture.

In her book, “Subverted: How I Helped the Sexual Revolution Hijack the Women’s Movement,” Browder chronicles the lies and deceptions that Cosmopolitan editor-in-chief Helen Gurley Brown and others used to promote abortion, artificial contraception, marital infidelity and many other immoralities.

Browder will also talk about how Christ’s forgiveness, received through the sacrament of reconciliation, helped her find healing and peace.

Morse will speak about how women can change the culture for their children and grandchildren. Morse is founder of the Ruth Institute, a global nonprofit organization focused on helping the family and protecting the rights of children.

Morse has authored or co-authored four books, the latest of which is “The Sexual Revolution and Its Victims.”

She earned her doctorate at the University of Rochester and taught economics at Yale and George Mason universities.

The cost to attend is $25 for early registration, and $30 at the door. To register, go to the website at: www. livingintruthkc.com.

APRIL 14, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

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Photojournalist chronicles death penalty in action

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — The clock strikes 6 p.m. in Texas.

Outside a state prison, chilling cries can be heard.

Another execution has taken place.

“I cannot tell you the sounds that I heard,” said Scott Langley, recalling the moment he stood with a crowd while a prisoner was executed inside a building just hundreds of feet away.

“The cries coming from his mother at the moment her son was being killed,” he continued.

They left Langley speechless.

A photojournalist and death penalty activist, Langley spoke at Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, on March 23.

His presentation, along with a twoweek exhibit of his photographs that document what goes on in and around execution facilities before and during an execution, were part of a semesterlong effort by the college to discuss the issue in depth.

The school has also utilized “Dead Man Walking” by Sister Helen Prejean, CSJ — a book about her work as a spiritual adviser to two convicted murderers on death row — in this effort.

But perhaps the most eye-opening part of the semester has been Langley’s presentation.

Paired with haunting photographs in and around execution facilities around the time executions occur, Langley told the story of what happens leading up to and during the moment of death for prisoners on death row.

Project turned passion Langley first became interested in the death penalty during his senior year of college at Southern Methodist University in Dallas.

“As a college student learning about the death penalty, it wasn’t the facts and figures and theories that really moved me to want to be involved in this issue,” he said. “It was hearing the personal stories of people who were directly affected by the death penalty.”

The years during Langley’s time in college featured the peak years of executions in the United States.

“We had almost two executions a week happening in this country,” he said.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY MOIRA CULLINGS

Photojournalist and death penalty activist Scott Langley presents a photograph he took outside a prison during an execution to an audience at Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, on March 23. Langley used his photographs to paint a picture of how the death penalty works and its impact on society.

“Half of those happened in Texas.”

As part of a class project, Langley chose to document what happened outside facilities where executions were taking place.

“All of a sudden, it became a very raw, concrete experience where I knew that I could pinpoint the exact time, the exact place and the exact manner in which someone was about to die,” he said.

Since then, Langley has traveled the country, both as a photojournalist and an activist against the death penalty.

The most shocking experience he had was a case in which the parents of the prisoner being executed stood with the crowd outside the facility.

“The image of that mother crying is seared into my brain,” said Langley.

The death penalty, he said, affects countless people we don’t even think of.

“Every prisoner executed is leaving behind a mother, a father, a sibling, uncles, aunts, grandparents — a community that loves and supports them,” he said.

The lengthy process of death row, Langley argued, also affects the family of the victims, as it drags on over the

years and is a continual reminder of their loss.

The entire process can make it even harder for them to move on.

And Langley’s passion against the death penalty isn’t driven by compassion for any particular prisoner, he said.

“It’s about this fundamental sanctity of human life,” he said, “and it struck me, as a person of faith, how wrong this is.”

Langley went on to present a series of photographs he took both inside a death row execution facility prior to an execution and outside the facility in the moments leading up to the execution.

Thoughts from the president Msgr. Stuart Swetland, president of Donnelly College, concluded Langley’s presentation with his own.

“When we have a death penalty case,” he said, “the state and people acting in your name and my name have to intend the death of the person that is strapped to that gurney.”

That makes each of us responsible, he said.

Msgr. Swetland testified to the Kansas House of Representatives on Feb. 13 in favor of House Bill 2167. The bill would abolish the death penalty in Kansas.

“It is always difficult to speak about the death penalty,” he said in his testimony.

“The crimes that lead to a sentence of death are almost always vicious, heinous and heartbreaking,” he said. “Opposition to the death penalty in no way lessens one’s awareness of the evil that some are capable of committing. “[The bill] does say that there is a better way. Death should never be seen as a solution to our problems; and it is not the solution to violent crime.”

Msgr. Swetland went on to argue why the death penalty is wrong and offer his hopes that it will be abolished in Kansas.

“Now is the time for all in Kansas to show our strength of character, our virtue and values, and to affirm a culture of life by finally rejecting recourse to the use of the death penalty in our great state,” he concluded.

To view Langley’s photos and for more information on his work, visit the website at: www.deathpenaltyphoto.org.

APRIL 14, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

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WORKERS thein VINEYARD

TOOLS FOR FAMILIES Growing as Disciples of Jesus

Rise

W

hat will your family do this Easter season to celebrate the amazing reality of the resurrection of Jesus?

Easter is the most important Christian celebration of the year. Make it special for your family — live and witness the power of Christ’s resurrection!

• Do special activities/ meals/family time during ARTWORK BY NEILSON CARLIN, 2015 the Octave of Easter (not just Easter Sunday).

• Pray the Divine Mercy novena beginning on Good Friday.

• Live joy intentionally as a family (be specific).

— William O’Leary director of religious formation Church of the Ascension, Overland Park

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE MCSORLEY

From left, twins Annika and Adrianna Smith, 13, prepare food with their grandmother Betty Kolenda for the upcoming 33rd anniversary Polski Day celebration on May 6. Kolenda is one of the founding members of Polski Day.

WEBSITE EXCLUSIVE

Polski Day prep provides chance to give back

CHURCH OF THE WEEK

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

K Holy Family Kansas City, Kansas Address: 274 Orchard St. Phone: (913) 371-1561 Pastor: Father Peter Jaramillo, SSA Mass Times: Saturday, 6:30 p.m.; Sunday, 10:15 a.m.

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

WEBSITE EXCLUSIVE

GAME OF THE WEEK BOYS AND GIRLS TRACK

Immaculata High School

Immaculata High School took on McLouth High School in a track meet on April 7 at McLouth.

Leaven photographer Doug Hesse caught much of the action. Go online to www. theleaven.org to see his photos.

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Polish traditions at All Saints Parish here have deep roots, and generations of parishioners continue to keep their heritage alive through an annual Polski Day celebration.

Betty Kolenda is no exception.

To give back to the community she loves, Kolenda has volunteered for the celebration since it began three decades ago.

“If you’ve got a parish that you’ve belonged to for any length of time, you have an attachment there,” said Kolenda.

Growing up, Kolenda received every sacrament in the parish — formerly known as St. Joseph-St. Benedict Church — and hopes it is where she will eventually attend her final Mass.

“It’s one of the most beautiful churches in Kansas City,” she said. “Of course, I’m a little prejudiced.”

For Kolenda, Polski Day is the perfect way to give back to her church and Polish community.

The purpose of the celebration is to commemorate the signing of the Polish Constitution of Freedom, which occurred on May 3, 1791.

All the profits from the event go toward preserving

J

All Saints church, school and parish grounds. This year will also help the parish’s renovation of its former school, which will become a multipurpose hall.

The hands-on preparation for the event starts about a month in advance, with a group of volunteers meeting to make all the cabbage rolls to be sold — something the parish is rightfully known for — in one day.

“We start at 8 o’clock and we’re not finished until about 2,” said Kolenda.

A few weeks after that, Kolenda will join the group to make cookies and other sweets for attendees to enjoy.

The actual celebration starts with a parade and includes Polish music, food and a polka Mass. Elaborate costumes and traditional Polish treats make the celebration particularly unique.

“Someone always speaks about our Polish heritage and what Poland means to a lot of us,” said Kolenda.

When Kolenda was growing up, All Saints had a much larger Polish community, and the parish would celebrate Mass in Polish each week.

Now that the demographics of the area have changed, the Masses are said instead in English and Spanish, but its Polish parishioners continue their Polski Day tradition each year.

“We have a great turnout because people always want to celebrate their Polish heritage,” she said.

What makes the celebration even more meaningful for Kolenda is the fact that her children and grandchildren still participate alongside her.

“I’ve always appreciated having our family here. I feel that it’s just part of our heritage,” she added.

Kolenda’s favorite part, though, is seeing old friends who come back in town for the celebration.

“It’s just fun to see them year after year after year,” she said.

“A lot of their children come back now,” she continued, “and they always tell me who they are. It’s great seeing your old friends.”

Kolenda can’t recall ever missing a Polski Day and feels grateful to give back to her home parish.

“I think it’s very rewarding because the priest needs money all the time to do something [at the church],” she said. “We feel like we’re keeping up our heritage by keeping the parish open.

“To us, it’s really well worth keeping.”

This year’s celebration will take place on May 6. For more information, visit the website at: www.polskiday.com.

Vitae Foundation to sponsor essay contest

EFFERSON CITY, Mo. — The Vitae Foundation will once again partner with the Kansas City Royals and provide an opportunity to spread the message about the sanctity of life on one of the largest radio networks in the American League.

Vitae will be able to advertise during all 162 games on the Royals Radio Network, which includes its flagship station 610 Sports Radio-KCSP, and 60 other affiliates in six states.

The partnership also includes a Vitae ad on the Crown Vision video board in Kauffman Stadium prior to every home game, along with a public-address

system announcement when the ad appears. The final piece to the partnership is a life issues essay contest.

The essay contest is open to seventh-graders attending the 33 Catholic grade schools in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. The contest is sponsored by the Vitae Foundation.

The first 110 students who submit an essay under the theme “Encouraging a Culture of Life” will receive four (View Reserved level) tickets to the game on June 20, when the Royals take on the Boston Red Sox. The essay contest’s first-place winner will throw out a ceremonial first pitch before the 7:15 p.m. game

and receive four Dugout tickets. The second-place winner will receive a pregame experience for four, which includes batting practice, radio booth visit, stadium tour and four Dugout Plaza tickets.

Contestants must compose an original, handwritten or typed essay of 500-1,500 words on any life issues topic. One submission per contestant is allowed. Essays may be submitted by email to: info@vitaefoundation.org or mailed to Vitae and postmarked by 5 p.m. on May 1.

For more details about the essay contest, go online to: www.vitae foundation.org/events.

Funeral dinner ministry leaders, from left, Carol Manley, Charlotte Garbee, Lynne Jaime and Charlene Hartley (not pictured) plan, organize and work at several funeral dinners a year at St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee. The ministry is all about taking care of grieving families, they say.

KINDNESS IS SERVED Parish’s funeral ministries help families on difficult day

S Volunteer Kathy Dorman was reminded how important the funeral ministry was when her father died last year.

STORIES AND PHOTOS BY JOE BOLLIG

HAWNEE — About three years ago, Kathy Dorman went to a funeral at her parish. After the committal rites at the cemetery, she and the other mourners returned to the parish for lunch.

What she found was impressive — and moving.

Members of the St. Joseph Parish funeral dinner ministry had prepared and served a wonderful lunch.

“I saw how it impacted families at a time when they’re going through a lot of grief and it’s hard to make decisions,” said Dorman. “This is a big thing to take up for the family, and I think St. Joseph Parish does a beautiful job.”

She decided to join the ministry.

On July 11, 2016, her father, Martin Wayne Regan, died, and she briefly switched roles — from giving to receiving the care.

Only then did she fully appreciate the value of this bereavement ministry.

“It was such a gift to know that it was one less thing for us to do at a difficult time, and that we could have our friends and family here, and that everything would be done — and done well,” she said. “There was so much kindness and thoughtfulness extended by these ladies.” >> Story continues on the next page

From left, Fran Illum and Kathy Dorman put precooked meat in a pot for reheating while Carol Manley (back, left) and Charlotte Garbee (back, right) look on. The number of funeral dinner volunteers depends on who is available and how many mourners need to be served. >> Continued from previous page

It’s for the living Funerals are not only — or even primarily — about the dead. As the bereavement (or funeral) ministry at St. Joseph Parish demonstrates, funerals are really about taking care of the living.

The first part is, of course, the funeral and burial liturgies, which are the responsibility of the parish clerics: pastor Father Michael Hawken, associate pastor Father Daniel Stover and Deacon Tom Mulvenon.

But beyond the sacramental and liturgical aspects, there are three more ministries: the card ministry, called Grace-Filled Greetings; the funeralexclusive Resurrection Choir; and the funeral dinner ministry.

“What I have found is that our funeral ministries are a time to welcome people,” said Father Hawken. “A lot of times family members and friends of the deceased have been away from the church.”

The spirit of hospitality and welcome people are met with at St. Joseph, and an emphasis on the promise of the resurrection during the liturgies, can impact people tremendously, he said.

This approach has even led people back to the church.

“Funerals are an occasion for people to reflect on their own mortality,” said Father Hawken. “When they come and hear about how people lived their calling in the Lord, and what the church has meant to them . . . it shows what’s really important, when all is said and done.”

Lapsed Catholics sometimes, he added, come to this realization: This is

my faith and my tradition, and I want to be buried from the Catholic Church someday.

St. Joseph is a large and old parish.

They average about a funeral a week, so the bereavement ministries keep busy. But, sometimes, they’re really busy.

“I remember when I was first assigned here,” said Father Hawken. “It was Advent, right before Christmas.

We had 14 funerals in nine days. It amazed me. We would hold one in the morning and one in the afternoon, and the Resurrection Choir and the funeral dinner volunteers were here for them all. Talk about dedication! It was one after another.”

It’s almost like magic Deacon Mulvenon remembered one funeral that included visiting priests. Afterward, they commented on the large choir and the fantastic funeral dinner.

Was this some sort of special effort for the family of the deceased? they asked. They were amazed when Father Hawken told them, “No, this is what we do for everyone.”

And here’s the interesting aspect that’s often overlooked about the parish’s bereavement ministries: They are “on call.”

“It’s important to point out that you can never plan when a death is going to happen,” said Father Hawken.

“How many times have these people been called on a moment’s notice to come in in two days time to sing for the liturgy or put on a luncheon?”

Hardly anyone outside of the ministry knows how much work is involved. But making the food appear

Fran Illum pauses in her preparations to discuss the dinner’s menu with pastor Father Mike Hawken. Other than the meat entree and bread, most of the food is donated. as if by magic is a testimony to the efficiency and work of the volunteers.

When a funeral liturgy is planned at St. Joseph, the family is asked right off the bat if they want a funeral dinner.

Usually they do. When that’s the case, the funeral ministry committee swings into action. The team consists of Carol Manley, Charlene Hartley, Lynne Jaime and their leader, Charlotte Garbee.

The secret to the ministry’s success is planning, teamwork, division of labor and hard work.

First, the four women get the ball rolling by calling and sending emails to volunteers drawn from a list of 100 names. Some volunteer to work the dinner, while others make and drop off salads.

The number of volunteers who work at the actual dinner depends on the size of the expected crowd. Ditto for the number who will be asked to make and drop off salads.

The dinners take place in the parish hall, under the church. A group of four people set up all the tables and chairs.

All the desserts are donated by local businesses. Four individuals are responsible for picking up the donations and bringing them back to the church.

Funeral dinners feature a semistandard menu, but allow for variety, too.

The family is responsible for procuring meat and bread for the meal.

Usually, they order it from a grocery store and have it delivered.

The ministry provides a fruit tray and four side dishes. Generally, Manley makes the green beans, Garbee makes the baked beans, and Jaime makes the scalloped potatoes.

All these are prepared in the parish hall’s kitchen.

The ministry also provides beverages — coffee, tea, lemonade and water.

The parish does charge families for the funeral dinner and accepts donations to the ministry, but no family unable to pay is turned away.

When they can, the funeral dinner volunteers try to accommodate special requests. One family asked for candy dishes at all tables, and another wanted ice cream — because that was among the deceased’s final requests.

Done without a hitch — almost Despite their best efforts, the funeral ministry sometimes runs into a glitch or two.

At one funeral, they expected 200 people, but more than 300 showed up.

“We accused Father Mike of putting out a sign that said ‘Free lunch here,’” laughed Garbee.

This was one of the rare occasions when they ran out of food — except for the entree, which was meat.

“I apologized to [a family member], but she said, ‘Don’t worry about it.

The next time they’ll get in line earlier,’” said Garbee.

Another time, a local grocery store’s deli was late sending an order of sandwiches. And one other time, the meat portion of the meal didn’t show up at all. That required drastic action.

“There’s a barbecue place down the street,” said Garbee. “A [relative] called them and they had it here in 15 minutes.”

On a different occasion, another relative got on the phone and placed an extensive order to a nearby Go Chicken Go. “We’re very fortunate that we haven’t had more times like this,” said Manley.

Funeral dinners are a great time for family members to grieve together, catch up and tell stories. It can almost be like a family reunion, albeit absent the guest of honor.

“It’s closure for the families,” said Garbee. “They don’t have to worry about feeding their families.”

And it doesn’t stop in the parish hall. If any food is left over, it's boxed up and sent home with the family, so they can continue the gathering at a home.

“It helps with the grieving process,” said Jaime.

The funeral dinner volunteers generally begin just after 7 a.m. and finish with cleanup by the early afternoon.

One time, however, a family just didn’t want to leave.

“We told them, ‘We have to close up the church at 3 o’clock,’ and a woman said, ‘But we’re visiting,’” said Manley.

“We told them, ‘You’re going to have to visit someplace else.’ So they just moved out into the hallway. Finally, we just shut off all the lights and locked the door.”

Sometimes, families themselves want to bring in special food. One family brought in so much food that extra tables had to be set up. They even stayed to help clean up afterward.

“A lot of times, unless they’ve come to the visitation the night before, people haven’t had a chance to visit or greet others,” said Father Hawken. “After they come back from the cemetery for the lunch, folks are able to connect with family and friends, celebrate their loved ones and console.”

St. Joseph parishioner Nancy White, who attended the funeral dinner for her mother Wilma Hambelton in February, could speak for anyone who has experienced the funeral dinner ministry.

“They were very kind and we greatly appreciated what they did for us,” she said. “They provided for us and the people who came to comfort us.

They did a fabulous job for us, and they are there for every member of the parish.”

Despite not having much time to practice, the special-purpose Resurrection Choir can gather on short notice and sing at parish funerals. The choir has about 70 members, although 20 to 30 usually participate in any funeral liturgy.

I

Special choir sings the sacred and brings comfort

t’s to be expected that people who grew up in a parish might want to be buried there, too, especially if their family has been associated with the parish for generations.

That’s certainly the case with St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee. It’s a big parish with a long history.

But when such is the case, mourners can be few due to travel and time restrictions. Also, many elderly have lost family and friends over the years.

There’s something sad about a poorly attended funeral.

For this — and other reasons — St. Joseph Parish began the Resurrection Choir about 30 years ago.

The Resurrection Choir is one of three choirs at the parish, but it is the only one that exists exclusively for funerals.

“I find it's actually one of the most rewarding parts of my position,” said Barbara Leyden, director of parish music ministries. “Father Michael gives beautiful homilies . . . and it’s a great reminder that Jesus died on the cross so we could go to heaven, and that there is a life afterwards.

And you’re helping people at sometimes the lowest point of their life, giving them

A

Choir member Richard Leyden, husband of parish music director Barbara Leyden, is one of 70 volunteers comprising the special-purpose choir. comfort. There’s great joy in knowing that you’re there for people when they need help.”

Leyden calls the choir together when she receives notice of a pending funeral.

She has a list of 70 people, and usually at least 20 or 30 of those are able to participate. Many of the choir members are retirees or have shift employment.

There is little opportunity to practice.

“We only warm up a half-hour before each funeral,” said Leyden. “Occasionally, I teach them something new. We have quite a substantial list of hymns in our repertoire.”

Occasionally, there is a bit of awkwardness when a family requests secular music.

“We can do something before or after the funeral,” said Leyden. “We had a funeral for a baby and the family brought a CD and played ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’ after the funeral. Father Michael is good at guiding families about the purpose of the funeral and the [requirement] for sacred music.”

The choir sings for free, but sometimes a fee is involved when the family requests music that requires a soloist.

“We haven’t had any complete disasters, and we can usually keep things going,” said Leyden. “Sometimes, things like a bagpiper can make it more complicated.

“But we keep it together.”

Cards made with care for all occasions

lthough not exclusively a bereavement ministry, the St. Joseph Parish card ministry also plays a role.

The ministry, called GraceFilled Greetings, meets twice a month to make cards for all Catholic occasions.

This includes sympathy cards for families of the deceased.

There are about a dozen women who meet twice a month to make the cards, said Sue Hager, who has led the ministry since 2004 “We’ll come up with a design and produce them, like on an assembly line,” she said.

They make more than 1,500 cards a year. Other than the theme (baptism, Advent, Christmas, confirmation, etc.), the cards are fairly generic.

“We don’t make them knowing who they’re going to,” said Hager.

From left, Janet O’Connell and Joan Van Welleghem, members of the choir, sign cards for a retiring choir member.

APRIL 14, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

THE SOAP CHAMPIONS Kindergarten through sixthgrade students in the Catholic Youth Formation program at Sacred Heart Parish, Emporia, competed to see which class could collect the most bars of soap for Catholic Charities. The third-grade class of 15 students took first (pictured to the left), donating 290 bars. The entire school brought in a total of 1,227 bars of soap for this special Lenten service project. Pictured are: first row, from left, Leo DeDonder, Ava Podrebarac, Raymundo Rodriguez and Grady Howe; second row, from left, Elise Eckert, Elodie Bueno, Lorena Rodriguez and Kaden Bosiljevac; back row, from left, Emily Spellman, Ava Tyson, Marley Sewell, Kaden Lopez and Landon Petitjea.

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Master iconographer to lead intensive course in Wichita

W

ICHITA — The Spiritual Life Center here will welcome master iconographer Theodore Papadopoulos from Larissa, Greece, for a six-day intensive iconography course this summer. The workshop takes place July 10 through 15.

Participants will discover new secrets in this traditional artistic expression of theology and spirituality.

For beginners and professionals, this workshop offers an opportunity to learn and refine techniques in this sacred art. Each participant will paint an icon of their own to keep.

The course focuses on the art of egg tempera painting.

The goal of the workshop is to provide students with a complete training in the sacred art of Byzantine iconography through clear, concise teaching. Great emphasis is placed on the student acquiring hands-on experience, in order to be able to comprehend and put into practice the techniques Byzantine icon painting requires.

The course will be taught daily, Monday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Pricing includes expert instruction, course materials, daily lunch and lodging.

Papadopoulos was born, grew up and lives in Larissa. He studied drawing at the Municipal School of Fine Arts of Larissa in 1987. His fascination with iconography began with his first visit to the Holy Mountain Athos.

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APRIL 14, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CLASSIFIEDS EMPLOYMENT Freelancers needed - Great for retired journalists, and writers/photographers looking to supplement their income! The Leaven, the official newspaper of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, is looking for freelance reporters and photographers to assist staff in covering this busy beat. Story and photo shoots are assigned on an as-needed basis. Applicants from all parts of the archdiocese welcome. For freelance reporting, a working knowledge of the Catholic Church and excellent writing and reporting skills are a must. Actual professional journalism experience is a plus. For photography, a diverse portfolio with a working knowledge of the Catholic Church is required; experience in low-light photography and professional photojournalism experience is a plus. To be considered for freelance reporting, send a letter of interest, a simple resume and published clips or links to what you’ve written. To be considered for freelance photography, send a letter of interest, a simple resume and samples of your work or a link to an online portfolio. Send all materials by email to: freelanceforleaven@gmail.com.

Director of special events and development - The Catholic Education Foundation (CEF) seeks to hire a director of special events and development (cefks.org). The director will work with the executive director and staff of the CEF to envision, plan and execute events and to develop and cultivate donor and community relations in support of CEF’s mission of providing scholarships for students in need in targeted Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. The director of special events and development should have highly polished marketing and presentation skills, a charismatic communication style, exceptional organizational abilities, the capability of working with limited direction, and the ability to speak authentically about the importance of Catholic education. The director will facilitate, plan and manage all aspects of CEF fundraising events, including: advertising and promotion; preparing event budgets and tracking event finances; securing event sponsors and donors to meet event budget goals; coordinating event-related internal and external communication; recruiting and managing event volunteers; and coordinating event-related donor relations.

The director will also assist the executive director with CEF general development activities, including: prospecting and cultivating new donors; coordinating existing donor relations; and maintaining accurate development databases. Candidates should have a bachelor’s degree or higher; demonstrated success in event planning, sales and/or fundraising and donor development; and competency with Microsoft Office. A working knowledge of Catholic school operations is preferred. Must be a practicing Catholic in good standing. Individuals interested in this full-time position should send a cover letter and resume to: CEFAdmin@archkck.org.

Assistant principal - St. Therese School is accepting applications for assistant principal. St. Therese is an award-winning Catholic school located in Parkville, Missouri, with over 570 students in grades K-8. Basic requirements for the position include: practicing Catholic in good standing with a pastor’s letter of recommendation; master’s degree in the field of education and certification (or working toward) certification in administration; minimum five years teaching experience; outstanding people skills; excellent organizational skills; and effective communication abilities. To submit an application, email Theresa Roth at: troth@sttheresenorth.org.

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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.

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Office manager: priestly vocations - The Diocese of Kansas City/St. Joseph is seeking an office manager who will oversee and manage office policies and procedures with individual attention to and in support of diocesan seminarians. This is a full-time position based on a schedule of 40 hours per week, and is eligible for health and welfare benefits, paid time off and participation in a defined benefit retirement plan. This position is located at the chancery. For a full job description and to apply, go to the website at: careers.hireology.com/thecatholicdioceseof kansascitystjoseph and scroll down for a list of available jobs.

Looking for something new? - Use your administrative skills to help a developmental optometrist change people’s lives. Monday - Thursday, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.; summer hours vary. No health benefits. A background in Word, Excel, QuickBooks, customer service and medical office experience helpful. Send resume to: Dr. Beth Basin, 13600 Washington, Kansas City, MO 64145 or send by email to: bbazin@visiondevelop.com.

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Job fair - Vistar Kansas City is holding a job fair on the following dates: Friday, April 14, from 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. and Monday, April 17, from 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. We are looking to hire for the following positions: customer service representative; night warehouse order selectors; class A CDL delivery truck drivers. The location of the job fair is: 4825 N.W. 41st St., Suite 100, Riverside, Missouri.

For more information, call our human resources representative at (816) 746-4401, ext. 28313.

Mike Hammer local moving - A full-service mover.

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Full-time openings - Padre Pio Academy in Shawnee, which offers a classical curriculum, has full-time openings for the 2017-18 school year. For more information and details, contact Joanne at (913) 530-6553.

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Administrative assistant - Saint Thomas Aquinas High School is accepting applications for an administrative assistant in the student activities/athletic department.

The position is a 12-month assignment and the individual will work directly with the director of student activities and athletics. Send a letter of application and resume to Dr. William Ford, President, St. Thomas Aquinas High School, 11411 Pflumm Road, Overland Park, KS 66215 or send an email to: wpford@stasaints.net.

Teachers’ aide positions - St. Ann Young Child Center in Prairie Village is interviewing for the 2017-18 school year.

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Chad Equipment, a division of Birko Company, is located at 19950 W. 161st St. in Olathe. Chad manufactures food safety equipment which is sold throughout North America. Interested individuals call Michelle Roe at (913) 764-0321 or email resumes to: mroe@birkocorp.com.

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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.

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WATKINS TEAM Honest, reliable home selling for over 50 years Parishioner of Queen of the Holy Rosary, Overland Park Doug (913) 593-6362 | watkinsd@reecenichols.com Dirk (913) 219-2965 | dirkw@reecenichols.com Reece Nichols Real Estate Professional window cleaner - Residential only, fully insured. Over 40 years experience. Free estimates. Contact Gene Jackson at (913) 593-1495.

Rodman Lawn Care Lawn mowing, aeration, verticutting, fertilizing Hedge trimming, mulching, leaf removal, gutter cleaning Fully insured and free estimates John Rodman (913) 548-3002 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.

Spring tutoring - Available for K - 12 and home-schoolers in music and academics. For more information, call/text Kathleen at (913) 206-1837 or email: klmamuric@yahoo. 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.

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.

HOME IMPROVEMENT 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. EL SOL Y LA TIERRA *Commercial & residential * Lawn renovation *Mowing * Clean-up and hauling * Dirt grading/installation * Landscape design * Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!! www.elsolylatierra.com Call Lupe at (816) 935-0176 The Drywall Doctor, Inc. – A unique solution to your drywall problems! We fix all types of ceiling and wall damage — from water stains and stress cracks to texture repairs and skim coating. We provide professional, timely repairs and leave the job site clean! Lead-certified and insured! Serving the metro since 1997. Call (913) 768-6655.

Local handyman - Painting int. and ext., staining, wood rot, power wash, decks, doors and windows, masonry, hardwood floors, gutter cleaning, water heaters, toilets, faucets, garbage disposals, ceiling fans, mowing and more!! Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118.

DRC Construction We’ll get the job done right the first time.

Windows - Doors - Decks - Siding Repair or replace, we will work with you to solve your problems. Choose us for any window, door, siding or deck project and be glad you did.

Everything is guaranteed 100% (913) 461-4052 www.windowservicesoverlandpark.com drcconswindows@gmail.com Concrete construction - Tear out and replace stamped, stained or colored patios and drives. Retaining walls, footings, poured-in-place safe rooms, excavation and hauling. Asphalt drives and lots. Fully insured; references. Call Dan at (913) 207-4371 or send an email to: dan deeconst@aol.com.

Kansas City’s Premier Deck, Fence & Concrete - We repair, power wash and stain wood decks and fences.

We power wash and seal concrete drives, walkway, pool decks and more. Call Brian at (913) 952-5965. Member of Holy Trinity Parish.

Thank you for another great year - Through your support, my family has been blessed and my business has grown. We do windows, trim, siding, doors, decks, interior and exterior painting, wood rot, bathroom renovations, tile and sheetrock. If you need work done around your home, we can do it. Josh (913) 709-7230.

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

(913) 927-5240; nelsport@everestkc.net STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Free estimates. Call (913) 491-5837 or (913) 579-1835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com.

Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.

CAREGIVING 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.benefits ofhome.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.

Experienced RN - Seeking a part-time position. Provides nursing, companion and respite care. Johnson County area. Call Mary at (913) 710-5412.

FOR SALE 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) For sale - Double niche at Resurrection Cemetery in Lenexa. Holy Family Mausoleum, Jesus Son of God corridor, tier A. Includes bronze diamond companion urn.

Current price $6690, selling price $5000. Call (913) 8976433.

For sale - Original oil and watercolor paintings; framed lithographs; three framed WWI fighter planes; signed, framed Spencer Tracy photo; Native American figurines; collectible dolls and gnomes; 1950s ceramics and ceramic cats; designer purses of all sizes; pewter; cast iron pots and pans; old cookbooks; Tom & Jerry bowls and mugs; pro-life angels; Fitbit; Garmin; jewelry; size 8 leather blazer jackets and more. (913) 579-0279.

REAL ESTATE For sale - Maintenance free home. Backs up to Ascension Catholic Church. Two bedroom, 2.5 bath, study, open floor plan. Great for entertaining. $385.000. Call for appointment. (913) 669-8178.

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.

Will buy houses in any condition - We pay cash and you sell as-is with no warranty. You can leave anything behind if you don’t want to move it. My name is Mark and my family is part of Holy Trinity Parish. I hope I can help you. (913) 980-4905.

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

Renee Maderak, (913) 631-7179.

St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee Wanted to buy - Cucina LLC is an entity that buys commercial real estate. Lou Serrone, a member of Good Shepherd, and Tom Disidore, a member of St. Agnes, are members of Cucina LLC. Tom and Lou are licensed brokers in both Kansas and Missouri. If you are a seller of commercial real estate, call Lou at (913) 219-9924.

BOYS CAMP Camp Kapaun Catholic boys camp. Sports, team building, virtue growth, spiritual formation, Boys ages 9 - 14.

June 4 - 10, Conception Abbey, Missouri Email Victor Rodriquez at: vcrodrc@gmail.com

PILGRIMAGE Fatima/Medjugorje pilgrimage - Celebrate the 100th anniversary of apparitions in Fatima with a pilgrimage to Fatima and Medjugorje. Oct. 25 to Nov. 9, 2017. Call Grace at (913) 449-1806 for details. (Dates subject to change.)

APRIL 14, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CALENDAR EASTER BAKE SALE Main Street, Effingham (in front of city library, 414 Main St.) April 15 at 8 a.m.

The bake sale is sponsored by the St. Ann Altar Society and will be held until sold out.

‘LIFE: A GOOD THING TO GIVE’ St. Anthony Parish 309 Benton Blvd., Kansas City, Missouri April 24 at 6:30 p.m.

A talk about organ donation will be presented in both Spanish and English as part of a seven-day event called SevenDays2017. Its mission is to promote interfaith understanding following the hate-crime murders of three people outside Jewish facilities in April 2014.

HEALING MASS Curé of Ars Church (Father Burak Room) 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood April 20 at 7:30 p.m.

A Mass with prayer for healing, sponsored by archdiocesan charismatic prayer groups, will be held. Father Dennis Wait will preside.

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

STEWARDSHIP MINI-CONFERENCE Sacred Heart Parish 1100 West St., Tonganoxie April 21 from 6:30 - 8:45 p.m.

April 22 from 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

The conference will focus on the importance of hospitality as the essential building block to growing healthy parish stewardship. Wine and cheese on Friday; breakfast and lunch Saturday. The cost is $5. To register and for more information, go to the website at: shcct.com or call (913) 369-2851.

BARBECUE CONTEST Holy Cross Parish 8311 W. 93rd St., Overland Park April 22

Team entry fee includes up to four people.

The entry fee is $150 per team. Make checks payable to Holy Cross School. Categories include chicken, pork and pork ribs. Teams may arrive as early as 5 p.m. on April 21. A full list of details will be emailed to the team captain prior to the event. A copy may also be found in the Holy Cross School office.

SYMPTO-THERMAL METHOD OF NATURAL FAMILY PLANNING Topeka April 22 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 or go to the website at: nfptopeka.blogspot.com.

ABBOT’S TABLE Sheraton Crown Center 2345 McGee St., Kansas City, Missouri April 22 - Mass at 4 p.m.

Social hour at 5:15 p.m.

Dinner and program at 6:30 p.m.

The program will honor Auxiliary Bishop Robert Barron and Elmer Fangman with the presentation of a Lumen Vitae medal for their service and leadership in sharing the light of Christ. For more information, to make reservations or for sponsorship options, call (913) 360-7908 or send an email to: Kansasmonks.org.

‘LIVING IN TRUTH’ CATHOLIC WOMEN’S CONFERENCE Church of the Ascension 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park April 22 from 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Mass will be celebrated by Archbishop Naumann. The speakers will be Sue Ellen Browder, who wrote “Cosmo Writer to Catholic Mom,” and Jennifer Roback Morse, Ph.D. The cost to attend is $25 for early registration; $30 at the door. To register, go the website at: www.livingintruthkc.com.

FIFTH ANNUAL CAR, TRUCK AND CYCLE SHOW Sacred Heart Campus 2626 S. 34th St., Kansas City, Kansas April 22 from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Proceeds will go to the Our Lady of Unity School. Entry is $20 until April 14 and $25 after that date. The entry fee includes a T-shirt and goody bag for the first 100 entries; dash plaques for 150 entries. There will be food booths and vendors. Entry is free.

MEMORIAL LITURGY Curé of Ars 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood April 22 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. For more information, call (913) 649-2016.

STRAWBERRY HILL 5K Strawberry Hill Museum 720 N. 4th St., Kansas City, Kansas April 22 at 8 a.m.

The run begins on the museum grounds.

The cost is $35 and includes a T-shirt. Enroll online at: www.strawberryhillmuseum.org before the race, or at the race by 7 a.m.

There will be refreshments, aid stations and volunteers along the race course. Proceeds support the museum.

FAMILY DAY Prairie Star Ranch 1124 California Rd., Williamsburg April 23 from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Step away from everyday life and enter into a day of prayer, adventure, outdoor activities and time to reconnect. Opportunities include horseback riding, canoeing, rope activities and time for prayer. Register online now at: www.archkck.org/ranch or contact the team at (785) 746-5693.

YOUNG ADULT CONFERENCE ‘PEACE AND WELL-BEING’ Blessed Sacrament Parish (gymnasium) 2203 Parallel Ave., Kansas City, Kansas April 23 from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Speakers will be Msgr. Swetland, president of Donnelly College, and Dan Burke, president of Avila Institutes’s School of Spiritual Formation. The cost for registration is $15 and includes breakfast and lunch. For more information, call (913) 499-7839 or send an email to: dulcevirgomaria@gmail.com.

SMOKED PORK CHOP DINNER Annunciation Parish Cigna Center, 402 N. Maple, Frankfort April 23 from 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

The cost to attend is: $10 for adults; $5 for kids ages 10 and under. There will be special kids meals available. Takeout meals will be

available, as will delivery in Frankfort. Call the parish office during morning hours (M-F) at (785) 292-4462. There will be baked goods, crafts and much more.

FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS Prince of Peace Parish (Marian Room) 16000 W. 143rd St., Olathe April 25 from 7 - 8:30 p.m.

Financial advisers will explain special-needs trusts and the Achieving Better Life Experiences Act of 1973. The ABLE Act amended the IRS code to create tax-advantaged savings accounts for individuals with disabilities.

PIZZA DINNER Most Pure Heart Parish (Formation Room) 3601 S.W. 17th St., Topeka April 27 at 5 p.m.

The Christian Widow and Widowers Organization will hold a pizza dinner. Bring a covered dish or dessert. Dime bingo will be played after dinner. For more information, call (785) 233-7350 and leave a message.

RUMMAGE SALE Holy Family Parish 513 Ohio Ave., Kansas City, Kansas April 28 from noon - 9 p.m.

April 19 from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

All proceeds will benefit building maintenance and repairs of Holy Family Parish. For information on donating items or other questions, call Sandy and Mike Cannon at (913) 492-2612; Patty and Tom Westfall at (913) 342-6817; Julie and John Schneller at (913) 797-8623; or the church office at (913) 371-1561.

TACO TRIVIA NIGHT St. Pius X Parish 5500 Woodson Rd., Mission April 29 at 5:30 p.m.

The cost for a taco dinner is: $7 for adults; $4 for kids ages 7 through 10; kids under the age of 6 eat for free. Dinner includes two tacos and sides. Extra tacos will be $0.50.

Trivia teams can be from one to eight people and cost $20 per team to play. There will be cash prizes for the winner.

SUMMER LEADERSHIP CAMP University of Saint Mary 4100 S. 4th St., Leavenworth June 19 - 21

Young women entering sixth, seventh and eighth grades are invited to the Summer Leadership Camp hosted by the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth and the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica in Atchison. The registration fee of $125 covers lodging, meals, special activities and a T-shirt. Partial scholarships are available. Registration deadline is May 1.

For more information, call Sister Vicki Lichtenauer at (816) 718-2660; send an email to: vickiL@scls.org; or visit the website at: www. scls.org for a brochure with registration form.

SYMPHONY DESIGNERS’ SHOWHOUSE 816 Gleed Terr., Kansas City, Missouri April 25 from 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

The Ladies of Charity of Metropolitan KC will host a private showing of the 2017 Symphony Designers’ Showhouse. Tour the 108-yearold home and enjoy a box lunch, raffle and shopping the KCSA boutique. The cost for a ticket is $30 per person and helps support the Duchesne Clinic, Seton Center and Villa

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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 Marnie Robinett at (913) 451-2484.

‘ABUNDANT LOVE’ WOMEN’S RETREAT AT CAMP TEKAKWITHA Prairie Star Ranch 1124 California Rd., Williamsburg April 28 - 30

This is a retreat for women ages 21 and over.

There will be space to relax, rejuvenate and reconnect. There will also be speakers, fellowship, large and small groups, individual reflection and free time. Mass, Eucharistic adoration and reconciliation will also be offered. More information can be found online at: www.camptekakwitha-womensretreat. com.

TACO AND BINGO DINNER St. Patrick Parish (center) 1086 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kansas April 29 at 5 p.m.

The Knights of Columbus Assembly 0280 will sponsor the dinner and bingo. The cost of dinner is $7 for adults; $4 for kids ages 12 and under. The cost for bingo is $1 per game.

Proceeds go to seminarian support.

DAUGHTERS OF ISABELLA, LITTLE FLOWER CIRCLE 503 BUSINESS MEETING Christ the King Parish (Yadrich Hall) 5973 S.W. 25th St., Topeka April 30 at 1 p.m.

A rosary will be held prior to the 1 p.m. meeting in the rosary garden. If anyone knows of a member or their family member in distress, sick or in need of the circle’s prayers, contact Theresa Smith-Lawton at (785) 640-1403. If you are interested or would like more information about the Daughters of Isabella, call Marilyn Unrein at (785) 2308448 or (785) 228-9863.

LEAVENWORTH REGION OF ACCW QUARTERLY POTLUCK AND MEETING St. Casimir Parish (hall) 719 Pennsylvania Ave., Leavenworth April 30 at 12:30 p.m.

The ACCW potluck luncheon will be followed by a business meeting. Bring used cards, used stamps, items for the ditty bags, pennies for the seminarians and a friend. For more information, call (913) 683-4304 or send an email to: brosej2002@yahoo.com.

20TH ANNUAL HANK KRAMPS GOLF TOURNAMENT Prairie Highlands Golf Course 14695 S. Inverness St., Olathe May 13 at 7 a.m.

The tournament is sponsored by the Knights of Columbus Council 1913. This will be a four-person scramble, but incomplete teams are welcome. Prizes will be given to the top three teams in each flight. Team fees (there are different levels) include: light breakfast, range balls, cart, refreshments and lunch.

Entry deadline is May 1. For more information, call Logan Yeats at (913) 324-9066.

CALENDAR POLICY

Calendar notices are due eight days before the publication date. Because of space considerations, notices may only run two weeks before the event. Send notices to: beth.blankenship@ theleaven.org.

APRIL 14, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY EASTER SEASON April 16 EASTER SUNDAY OF THE RESURRECTION OF THE LORD Acts 10: 34a, 37-43 Ps 118: 1-2, 16-17, 22-23 Col 3: 1-4 Mt 28: 1-10 April 17 MONDAY WITHIN THE OCTAVE OF EASTER Acts 2: 14, 22-33 Ps 16: 1-2a, 5, 7-11 Mt 28: 8-15 April 18 TUESDAY WITHIN THE OCTAVE OF EASTER Acts 2: 36-41 Ps 33: 4-5, 18-20, 22 Jn 20: 11-18 April 19 WEDNESDAY WITHIN THE OCTAVE OF EASTER Acts 3: 1-10 Ps 105: 1-4, 6-9 Lk 24: 13-35 April 20 THURSDAY WITHIN THE OCTAVE OF EASTER Acts 3: 11-26 Ps 8: 2ab, 5-9 Lk 24: 35-48 April 21 FRIDAY WITHIN THE OCTAVE OF EASTER Acts 4: 1-12 Ps 118: 1-2, 4, 22-27a Jn 21: 1-14 April 22 SATURDAY WITHIN THE OCTAVE OF EASTER Acts 4: 13-21 Ps 118: 1, 14-15, 16-21 Mk 16: 9-15 April 23 SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER (OR SUNDAY OF DIVINE MERCY) Acts 2: 42-47 Ps 118: 2-4, 13-15, 22-24 1 Pt 1: 3-9 Jn 20: 19-31 April 24 Fidelis of Sigmaringen, priest, martyr Acts 4: 23-31 Ps 2: 1-9 Jn 3: 1-8 April 25 MARK, EVANGELIST 1 Pt 5: 5b-14 Ps 89: 2-3, 6-7, 16-17 Mk 16: 15-20 April 26 Wednesday Acts 5: 17-26 Ps 34: 2-9 Jn 3: 16-21 April 27 Thursday Acts 5: 27-33 Ps 34: 2, 9, 17-20 Jn 3: 31-36 April 28 Peter Chanel, priest, martyr; Louis Grignion de Montfort, priest Acts 5: 34-42 Ps 27: 1, 4, 13-14 Jn 6: 1-15 April 29 Catherine of Siena, virgin, doctor of the church Acts 6: 1-7 Ps 33: 1-2, 4-5, 18-19 Jn 6: 16-21

H

onestly, I’m afraid to laugh in front of my family anymore. As soon as I do, they smile and say to one another, “See? Doesn’t he sound just like him?”

The “him” being referred to is Muttley, a Hanna-Barbera cartoon dog, the sidekick of Dick Dastardly. If you’re curious as to what I — I mean — Muttley, sounds like, just Google “Muttley laugh.”

There are worse things to be known for than a distinctive laugh. In fact, in this season that we’re now entering, it’s entirely appropriate. The church calls us to celebrate the new life of the Resurrection throughout the Easter season — all 50 days — from April 16 until June 4.

Unfortunately, we Catholics seem much better at penitential practices than celebratory ones.

Most folks are very familiar with the Lenten disciplines of prayer, fasting and almsgiving and walk through that season with a detailed plan in mind.

But what happens once Easter hits? Usually, we all go back to our “normal” routine. Oh, we’ll probably celebrate

You’ve got to be kidding me 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.

after Easter Sunday Mass by indulging in what we gave up for Lent and enjoy a special meal with family. By sundown, though, we’re pretty much done with the season.

Actually, that’s a shame. Why are we so reluctant to rejoice? Does doing penance seem a holy practice, but celebration appear frivolous?

When we picture Jesus, do we ever imagine him smiling and laughing or is he always serious?

The Easter season is a time of transformation. We should turn our fasting into feasting, our being “pray-ers” into

being “play-ers,” and our almsgiving into thanksgiving. Just as we spent time planning what we would do to make Lent a holy time, so should we map out how to make the Easter season a time of sustained joyfulness and new life.

Particularly as adults, we’ve lost the ability to have fun. We’re overly serious. Seeing the very real problems in the world, we might feel that not taking them seriously makes us uncaring. In truth, having fun gives us not only a necessary respite, but brings perspective as well.

One of my favorite companions over the years is a book by Bob Basso, published in 1994,

by The Globe Pequot Press. Called “555 Ways to Put More Fun in Your Life,” my copy has Post-It notes sticking out from multiple pages as remind-

ers of things I should try.

While some of its suggestions are definitely not family-friendly, there’s plenty of ideas for keeping Easter fresh all 50 days.

Here are some quick suggestions: #276: Track down a childhood friend. Have lunch together. #25: Pat yourself on the back when someone else should, but doesn’t. #458: Bring a flower to your favorite supermarket clerk. #405: Eat dessert first. #293: Never pass a toy store without stopping in. #205: Ask for a round of applause. #147: Look for paradise on earth. Send away for brochures, watch travelogues, ask world travelers. Find a way to get there. #210: Listen to a classical recording. Conduct the orchestra. Get into it.

Go bananas. #254: Leave a thankyou balloon for the garbage collectors.

Traditionally, the Monday after Easter is a time for telling jokes, in honor of the greatest joke in the world. On Good Friday with the death of Jesus, the devil thought that he’d won. But God had the last laugh on Easter Sunday when he

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raised Jesus from the dead. There’s no way for Christians to contain their joy!

To get your joke-telling started, try this one on for size, found in “The Second Book of Catholic Jokes,” by Deacon Tom Sheridan: There were once two evil brothers. They were rich and used their money to hide their dastardly ways from the public.

They even attended the same parish and looked to be perfect Catholics.

Their pastor, however, was not fooled.

One of the brothers died. The other brother called on the pastor the day before the funeral and handed him a huge check, enough to pay off the new addition to the church that was being built.

“I have only one condition,” said the man.

“At his funeral, you must say that my brother was a saint.”

The pastor thought for a moment, then agreed.

At the funeral, the pastor was unrestrained: “This was an evil man. He cheated on his wife and abused his family.” At the end of citing a long litany of the man’s faults, the priest concluded, “ But, compared to his brother, he was a saint.”

Cue that Muttley laugh!

Matthew’s resurrection account emphasizes God’s power

Y

ou would expect to find a dead body at a tomb.

That is why, when the women Mary Magdalene and the other Mary arrive at the tomb of Jesus, they are so surprised to discover that his body is missing.

Paradoxically, the soldiers guarding the tomb are described as becoming like dead men.

They are “dead,” but not Jesus.

This is the narrative that we hear in Mt 28:110, the Gospel reading for the Easter Vigil and an optional Gospel reading for Easter Sunday morning.

Matthew’s Gospel is the only one that mentions the guards at Jesus’ tomb. It also explains their presence from a concern that Jesus’ disciples might

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.

steal his body. Pilate has posted them at the tomb to prevent that from happening (Mt 27:62-66).

But the guards

POPE FRANCIS

cannot prevent Jesus from rising from the dead. Their lack of power contrasts with the dramatic display of God’s power.

An angel descends from heaven amid an earthquake, rolls back the stone that blocks the entrance to the tomb and sits on it.

Nothing can prevent Jesus from rising from the dead. Nothing can stand in his way — not

The cross is a sign of God’s love for humankind and not just an emblem of Christianity or a piece of jewelry to display, Pope Francis said. The cross is a symbol of “the power of God who made himself sin to heal us” (cf. 2 Cor

the boulder at the entrance to the tomb, not the military might of the Roman Empire, not death itself.

That is the point that Matthew’s Gospel is making. His Gospel differs from the other three Gospels in details.

None of the other Gospels mention an earthquake. All four Gospels include one or two angels who announce the good news of Jesus’ resurrection, but only Matthew’s shows us the angel descending from heaven.

In the others, the angel or angels are already present. While the other three Gospels also mention the stone having been rolled away from the entrance to the tomb, they do not explain how that has happened, in contrast to Matthew’s showing us

5:21), and its significance can be lost due to a lack of faith in its saving power or the desire to show off, the pope said April 4 during his morning Mass at the Domus Sanctae Marthae.

“For some people it is a membership badge: ‘Yes, I carry the cross to show that I am a Christian.’ That is good, but it isn’t just a badge as if you were part of a team — a team logo — but a reminder of the One who made

the angel rolling it back.

It might strike us as strange that the angel in Matthew’s Gospel rolls back the stone after Jesus has already risen from the dead and left the tomb. We might expect that its removal would be necessary for Jesus to leave.

But that inconsistency does not bother Matthew. He is concerned about painting a dramatic picture of Jesus’ resurrection. That is why he includes the details unique to his Gospel. He wishes to emphasize God’s immense power in Jesus’ resurrection.

We might note that in none of the four Gospels do we see the actual event of Jesus’ resurrection. We only see the aftermath. We can only imagine what the real thing was like.

himself sin,” the pope said. Reflecting on the day’s reading from the Book of Numbers (21:4-9), which recounted the healing of the people of Israel who were poisoned by serpents, the pope said the bronze serpent was not only a reminder of how sin entered the world but also a “prophecy” of Christ’s death on the cross.

— CNS

APRIL 14, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY

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Spiritual opportunities abound for educators in our archdiocese

D

ear friends of Catholic schools, Ever since I can remember, the readings for daily and Sunday Masses during Lent have been very special to me. From the time I was young, I always felt such a closeness to Our Lord during this time, because the readings just seemed to make his life so tangible to me.

I am told by our school leaders who have had the wonderful opportunity to participate in pilgrimages to the Holy Land led by Mike Scherschligt, Holy Family School of Faith director, that they experience similar feelings

FROM THE SUPER

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

while in the Holy Land.

One principal said, “To walk the actual path of Jesus, to literally walk in his footsteps, was one

of the most profound experiences of my life.” I have heard this sentiment from others, as well.

Still others have commented on how the experience has deepened their prayer lives in ways they could not have imagined and how this

has positively affected how they lead their schools in the mission of making disciples for Jesus and his church.

This year, all of our school leaders received an extraordinary invitation to accompany Mike on another pilgrimage.

Due to the generosity of some very special benefactors, approximately 30 more school leaders will be traveling to the Holy Land at the end of May. They are so grateful and humbled that they are beneficiaries of this beautiful gift. When they talk about the trip, they are like kids in a candy shop! When this group of school leaders completes the

pilgrimage, nearly every Catholic school leader in this archdiocese will have been to the Holy Land and walked where Jesus walked.

As I reflect on this, I am overwhelmed by how blessed we are in this archdiocese. God has graced us with such goodness!

For a small archdiocese in the middle of the country, we have been privileged to have so many spiritual opportunities, and our Catholic schools are richer as a result. Our students are taught by faculty who receive ongoing faith formation in community; our principals receive support for their primary role as spiritual leaders

in the schools; and our parents recognize and appreciate the mission of Catholic schools.

I strongly believe that this is the reason why our schools and staff receive the external recognition that they do.

When we are focused on our evangelizing mission and are supported in this focus, the Holy Spirit ensures that good fruit comes forward.

The success of all of our students, especially those with special needs, is but one of these fruits.

Thank you to all who are supporting our Catholic schools! May the Lord bless you always. ¡Vaya con Dios!

Door opened for Kansas kids in danger of being slammed shut

M

embers of the Kansas Legislature have much to concern themselves with this year.

A long-term fix to the state’s budget woes continues to elude lawmakers’ grasp. Proposals for major changes to tax and health care policy are on the table.

Yet for some legislators, there is no issue more pressing than the need to kill a program that allows a small number of children from low-income families to attend the private school of their dreams.

In 2014, the Legislature passed the first school choice program in the state of Kansas.

CHURCH AND STATE

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

Under this law, children from low-income families can receive scholarships

financed entirely by private donations that they can use for tuition at private schools. Donor corporations receive a tax credit from the state, but no taxpayer dollars go to the private schools.

It is telling that when taxpayers want to use Medicare or Medicaid at a private or religious

hospital, nary an eyebrow is raised. But the idea of even indirect public support for private schools causes all too many politicians to run for cover.

This may have something to do with the fact that public hospital interest groups are not fighting medical choice tooth and nail to the tune of millions in political campaign contributions.

Kansas’ nascent tax credit scholarship program has so many limitations on it that most Kansas kids have not been able to participate.

For a sense of how small the program is, consider that there are almost 500,000 public school students in Kansas, while only 188

tax credit scholarships were awarded in 2016.

Donor corporations received $553,000 in tax credits, while the state spent $4 billion on K-12 public education.

Yet rather than expanding the program, some very determined political activists and their allies in the Legislature are attempting to shut it down before it even gets off the ground. Everyone has to make a living, but when it’s your job to deny low-income, mostly minority kids a chance at a school that could change their life, maybe it’s time to reassess your career path.

Modern times are marked by unprecedented levels of consumer

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choice in almost all sectors of the human endeavor. Yet when it comes to parents being able to pick the school that is best for their kids, K-12 education is stuck in a time warp. Unless you have the financial means to pay for both private school tuition and taxes for public education, your kids are supposed to go to the government-run school that the government tells them to attend, much as a century ago.

Now, 188 kids have been given an alternative.

A door to real choices for parents and children in Kansas has been cracked open. Unfortunately, it is in real danger of being slammed back shut.

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APRIL 14, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

LIVING STATIONS

HIGH SCHOOLERS FROM ST. BERNARD PARISH IN WAMEGO PERFORM A LIVING STATIONS OF THE CROSS ON APRIL 5 AT THE CHURCH PHOTOS BY JAY SOLDNER

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FIRST STATION

From left, Logan Ebert, Jacob Wick, Payton Donnelly and Samantha Wick — all parishioners of St. Bernard Church in Wamego — act out the First Station: Jesus is Condemned to Death.

THE ROMAN SOLDIER

St. Bernard parishioner Logan Ebert plays the part of one of the Roman soldiers in the Wamego church's production of the Living Stations of the Cross. Ebert and fellow soldier Payton Donnelly accompanied Jesus, played by Jacob Wick, throughout the Stations.

HELPING HAND

As Roman soldiers Logan Ebert (left) and Payton Donnelly look on, Megan Kipp prepares to step forward as Simon to help Jesus carry the cross.

FIRST FALL

Jesus (portrayed by Jacob Wick) struggles with the great weight of the cross, and, in the Third Station, falls for the first time.

WOMEN OF JERUSALEM

Jesus and the Roman soldiers are met along the way by, from left, Tyrah Smith, Caitlin Donahue, Darby Leitch and Georgia Ubel portraying the Eighth Station.