THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 39, NO. 37 | MAY 11, 2018
LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER
Toby Cook, Kansas City Royals vice president of community affairs and publicity, and his wife Barbara sit in Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri. Toby credits his job with the Royals for being a catalyst for his conversion to the Catholic faith.
ROYAL CONVERSION
Job with the Kansas City Royals leads couple ‘home’ to the Catholic Church By Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org
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ANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Royals might seem like a strange vehicle of conversion to Catholicism, but for Toby Cook, that’s how it all began. A little over a decade ago, Cook had carved himself out a nice niche as a local TV personality. He was the co-anchor for WDAF-TV FOX 4 Kansas City’s morning show and was happy in that role. But one day, in 2006, after emceeing a Royals Charities gala, Royals president Dan Glass approached Cook about working for the Royals. Cook was floored. “To have this once-in-a-lifetime, fall-from-the-sky, favorite-baseballteam job opportunity — it was too good to pass up,” Cook said. It was a life-changing decision. He not only ended up changing careers — but religions as well.
Raised Royal Cook grew up listening to Royals games on the radio every night in his hometown of Independence, in southeast Kansas, and taking in the occasional game at Royals Stadium. “My dad took me to my first Royals game in 1976,” Cook said. “We played the Oakland A’s. Reggie Jackson hit a three-run home run for them. Big John Mayberry hit a home run for us. I just was hooked from the very beginning.” Cook’s broadcast career began when he was 16 and worked at a small radio station in Independence, where he would man the station while it broadcast Royals games. “I kind of dreamed that one day I was going to be a play-by-play announcer for the Royals,” Cook said. “The Royals were easily one of the top things in my life.” Of course, when Cook was growing up, the Royals were one of the
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“I KIND OF DREAMED THAT ONE DAY I WAS GOING TO BE A PLAY-BY-PLAY ANNOUNCER FOR THE ROYALS. THE ROYALS WERE EASILY ONE OF THE TOP THINGS IN MY LIFE.” premier teams in baseball. They made the playoffs six times between 1976 and 1985 — winning it all in 1985. In 2006, however, the Royals were in disarray. They had fired general manager Allard Baird and replaced him with newcomer Dayton Moore. A few months later, Cook had that fateful meeting with Dan Glass —
and joined the Royals as vice president of publicity.
Lutheran beginnings Cook was raised in the Lutheran faith. His father was an elder. His brother is a Missouri Synod Lutheran pastor. “Church was an important part of my upbringing,” Cook said. “Church was about five blocks from where I grew up. When it was nice, we walked. We went every Sunday.” After graduating from Pittsburg State University, Cook started investigating whether he was being called to pastoral ministry. He eventually married his wife Barbara, and settled into a life as the host of a morning show in Pittsburg and later as a TV reporter and anchor. “But it kept knocking at me that I wanted something more spiritual and >> See “SWEENEY’S” on page 6
MAY 11, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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Our ‘contraceptive culture’ separates sex from love
his July 25 marks the 50th anniversary of the promulgation by Pope Paul VI of “Humanae Vitae,” an encyclical letter that was the fruit of a five-year process of study and reflection regarding the church’s teaching about the moral principles governing the transmission of new human life. It is hard to appreciate today the courage it took for Pope Paul VI to issue this reaffirmation of consistent Christian moral teaching that was in direct opposition to the strong and prevailing cultural winds of the sexual revolution. In what proved to be an understatement, Paul VI acknowledged: “It can be foreseen that this teaching will perhaps not be easily received by all.” Sadly, this year marks also the 50th anniversary of the unleashing of a poisonous dissent within the church. No other teaching of the church in the past almost 50 years has sparked as much criticism as “Humanae Vitae.” In the early 1960s, about 65 percent of Catholics accepted and lived the church’s teaching that each marital act remain open to the creation of a new human life. If polls of American Catholics today are reliable, a majority of Catholics do not accept the moral principles articulated in “Humanae Vitae” and a minority of Catholic couples in child-bearing years actually live in conformity with church teaching. Paul VI challenged priests to present this teaching with conviction and confidence, while at the same time being sensitive to the challenges experienced by married couples in their efforts to live in accord with moral truths expressed in “Humanae Vitae.”
LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN Paul VI encouraged priests in their pastoral care of married couples to exercise patience and mercy, inviting them to strive for holiness and not yield to discouragement. Having served as a priest for 43 years and a bishop now for more than 20 years, I must acknowledge my own failure in effectively communicating the teaching of “Humanae Vitae.” As we observe this 50th anniversary, we are at a new moment with new opportunities to open minds and hearts to the wisdom of “Humanae Vitae” confirmed by the tragic consequences of the sexual revolution. It is illuminating to compare the accuracy of the predictions by Paul VI of the consequences of a disregard for the fundamental moral principles regarding the transmission of human life and the promises by the advocates of the contraceptive culture. The advocates for the acceptance of widespread use of contraception believed it would: 1) strengthen marriages by relieving the pressure of large families and limitations on sexual expression; 2) result in a dramatic decrease in unwanted pregnancies;
3) eliminate the need for abortion; and 4) eradicate child abuse because every child would be a wanted child. Pope Paul VI, on the other hand, asserted that embracing the contraceptive mentality would: 1) lower moral standards; 2) devalue marriage as a result of increased premarital sexual activity; 3) wound marriages as result of increased instances of adultery; 4) result in governments implementing coercive population policies; and 5) result in a diminished respect for the human person in general and women in particular. With the perspective of the experience of the past 50 years, I can only marvel at the accuracy of Pope Paul VI’s predictions and miscalculations of the proponents of contraception. For decades, we have been dealing with alarmingly high rates of teenage pregnancy in addition to over one million abortions annually in the United States. The transmission of venereal diseases has been at epidemic levels for a couple of generations. Pornography is the fastest growing addiction. The divorce rate doubled since the widespread use of contraception. For the first time in our national history, fewer than half adult Americans are married. The number of children living without
a father in the home has tripled from 1960 to 2016. Forty percent of all children today in the United States are being born out of wedlock. The weakening of moral standards facilitated by the widespread availability of contraceptives has been a disaster for marriage, family life and, most of all, children. Now is also a favorable time to re-present the teaching of “Humanae Vitae” because of the heightened appreciation of ecology and the wisdom of preserving the natural balances in creation. We have become more sensitized as a culture to the threats to the natural environment caused by blindly accepting technological advancements in the name of progress. The same ecological principles are at work with regard to human sexuality. God did not make some huge mistake when he united in sexual intercourse the most profound expression of human love and bonding with the capacity to engender new human life. Our efforts to rearrange the natural order by separating sexual intimacy from the ability to conceive a new human life has resulted in an astounding trivialization of sexual expression. Female fertility, a healthy condition, has been defined in our public health policies as a disease to be prevented. Hormonal contraceptives are designed to interrupt and disrupt the natural health of women in order to make them sexually available to men. There are physical health consequences for women that have been largely ignored in order to achieve a cultural goal of complete freedom of sexual expression. Sadly, 50 years later, the evidence is mounting
ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN May 11 Benedictine College baccalaureate Mass May 12 “Running with the Cows” event — Queen of the Holy Rosary, Wea Donnelly College graduation Catholic Medical School Hippocratic Oath ceremony — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas May 14 Catholic Charities Golf Classic luncheon Confirmation — Sacred Heart, Shawnee May 15 Priests Personnel meeting Administrative Team meeting May 16 Saint Paul’s Outreach prayer breakfast — Olathe Conference Center Presbyteral Council meeting
that the contraceptive culture has not only separated one of the natural results of sexual intercourse — the potential conception of a new human life — but also disconnected sexual expression from love. This is evident both in the hookup culture of casual sex that has become widespread among young adults and the addiction to pornography that afflicts so many Americans of all ages. In the contraceptive culture, sex is no longer about conceiving life or communicating love, but simply about pleasure. The question for all of us now 50 years post-“Humanae Vitae” is:
Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas board meeting — Savior Pastoral Center Confirmation — Holy Angels, Basehor May 17 Confirmation — Sacred Heart, Emporia May 18 Holy Hour with those to be ordained — Holy Trinity, Lenexa May 19 Transitional diaconate ordination — Holy Trinity, Lenexa
ARCHBISHOP KELEHER May 13 Mass — Federal prison camp May 14 Confirmation — Sacred Heart, Shawnee May 18 Confirmation — Queen of the Holy Rosary, Overland Park May 19 Transitional diaconate ordination — Holy Trinity, Lenexa
What vision for human sexuality do we choose to embrace? The vision of the church accepts the reality of our human biology as designed by our Creator. It affirms the twin purposes of sexual intimacy: 1) a profound expression of human love that can only be authentic within the marital commitment of fidelity and permanency; and 2) an openness to the conception of a new human life. Or do we embrace the prevailing cultural vision of human sexuality as an unlimited access to pleasure, free from responsibilities of love and the potential engendering of new life?
All are invited as we
Honor Mary Our Mother
Mother’s Day Rosary May 13th, 2018 / 7 p.m. / Feast of Our Lady of Fatima St. Paul Catholic Church / 900 S. Honeysuckle Dr. In the Rosary Garden Sponsored by KCK Division World Apostolate of Fatima
MAY 11, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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65 YEARS AND COUNTING Lansing lauds a true ‘Catholic gentleman’
LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATIE PETERSON
Fourth-degree Knight Robert Martz looks at the certificate of commendation for his 65 years of service with the Knights of Columbus during a celebration in his honor May 6 at Robert Martz Hall, Lansing.
Katie Peterson Special to the Leaven
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ANSING — Reaching the 65year mark in anything is no small feat. But logging 65 years of continuous service and dedication to one organization is even rarer. Lansing native Robert Martz is marking 65 years with the Knights of Columbus. In his honor, the St. Francis de Sales Knights of Columbus Lansing Council 10834 held a special rosary, Mass and reception May 6 at St. Francis de Sales Church to celebrate. “His 65 years as a Knight is more than just having a membership card. Robert was and is an active member of the Knights,” said Father Bill McEvoy, St. Francis de Sales pastor. “For the Knights to keep track of Robert’s years and to honor him shows the high esteem he is held in by his brothers.” Mike Keohane, Council 10834 member and a fourth-degree Knight, compared Martz to other long-serving members. “I don’t know of anybody else that’s still alive that has 65 years of service,” Keohane said. “That’s amazing to me.” The Knights of Columbus is a fraternal organization for Catholic men first established by Father Michael McGivney in 1882, according to the official Knights of Columbus website. There are currently more than 15,000 established councils and more than 1.9 million members. Martz joined the Leavenworth Knights of Columbus Council 900 in 1953 at the tender age of 22 where he served his first 41 years before transitioning to the Lansing Council in 1994 after it was established in May of 1992. Through the years, Martz has been a part of the Leavenworth Veterans Day Parade, the St. Patrick’s Day parade and different charitable fundraisers throughout the community. But it’s the fraternal aspect that Martz enjoys the most. “It’s visiting with the different members and listening to their stories,” Martz said. “Myself, I don’t have that many stories to relay to them, but I like
LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATIE PETERSON
Fourth-degree Knight of Columbus Robert Martz admires the cake made in his honor for 65 years of continuous service with the Knights of Columbus May 6 in Robert Martz Hall. Knights of Columbus Lansing Council 10834 honored Martz at the 8 a.m. Mass at St. Francis de Sales Church and presented him with gifts during a reception. listening to their stories — their life and so forth.” “We’re regenerating the spirit of charity, advancing that along the way,” he added. Martz said the most important duty of a Knight is to serve the needs of the
President Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann
Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)
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Catholic Church and, in doing so, he has assisted in the renovation of St. Francis de Sales Church and in any other projects the pastor needs to be done. Since he joined, Martz has served under six different pastors at St. Fran-
Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org
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cis de Sales and was the maintenance man for more than 20 years. “If you ever needed anything, the guy to ask was Robert,” Keohane said. “He’ll know and he did it all.” Father McEvoy said Martz is the epitome of the church’s patron. “He is prayerful, meek and humble. He is a gentle man and very sincerely devout — a true example of living a Christian life,” he said. “There’s no guile in him. What you see is what you get.” “When I arrived here in 2010, Robert was sacristan and in charge of our plant maintenance,” he continued. “His institutional memory ran so deep. His generous service overflowed beyond the parish to feeding the hungry at St. Mary’s Food Kitchen [in Kansas City, Kansas] for decades [and] always with a smile on his face.” Martz remains humble in his service. “I haven’t done that much,” he said. But Keohane said Martz is the prime example of how a Knight is supposed to be. “To me, Robert is the true person — no airs, very religious and will do anything for you. That to me is the example of a Catholic gentleman,” Keohane said. “He’s taken care of our church, taken care of our pastors, taken care of everything,” he added. “He’s done more than anyone else I know.” Council 10834 Grand Knight Edd Hingula said Martz is an example of the four principles of a Knight — charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism. “Many seek to follow Robert’s example and respect Robert Martz as a Catholic gentleman,” Hingula said. “A true Knight, loyal to God, the Catholic Church and the fraternal organization of which he has been such a staunch member that the Supreme Knight personally recognizes and commends him for all to see.” Martz said he feels proud when he looks over his years as a Knight. “It doesn’t seem possible that we did all those things, but I guess we have done it,” he said. “It’s just a great feeling when you look back on it. “It’s a great feeling of accomplishment.”
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.
MAY 11, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
Couples with pregnancy and fertility challenges can seek the intercession of saint at special Mass May 27
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By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org
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VERLAND PARK — The faithful will have an opportunity to seek the intercession of St. Gianna Beretta Molla — patron saint of mothers, couples with pregnancy and fertility challenges, and of unborn children — at a Mass this month. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann will be the main celebrant and homilist at the 10:30 a.m. Mass on May 27 at Holy Spirit Parish, 11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park. “The relic and an accompanying prayer service, or the possibility of celebrating Mass in the presence of the relic, is being commended to pastors whose parishioners may be experiencing difficulties in fertility and pregnancy,” said archdiocesan liturgist Michael Podrebarac. All are invited to pray for St. Gianna’s intercession and to venerate the relic after the Mass. The relic is in the possession of Archbishop Naumann on behalf of the archdiocesan church. St. Gianna was an Italian pediatrician, wife and mother. She practiced medicine according to Catholic principles and devoted herself to helping
St. Gianna Beretta Molla is shown holding two of her children. Her relic will be present at a Mass May 27 at Holy Spirit Church in Overland Park. the elderly and poor. She and her husband Pietro Molla married in 1955, and she gave birth to three children. While pregnant with her fourth child, doctors discovered a tumor on her uterus. Although she was advised to have an abortion or a hysterectomy, she was unwilling to do either, because these options would have resulted
“THE RELIC AND AN ACCOMPANYING PRAYER SERVICE, OR THE POSSIBILITY OF CELEBRATING MASS IN THE PRESENCE OF THE RELIC, IS BEING COMMENDED TO PASTORS WHOSE PARISHIONERS MAY BE EXPERIENCING DIFFICULTIES IN FERTILITY AND PREGNANCY.” in the death of her unborn child. She opted for a less invasive procedure. Her fourth child, Gianna Emanuela, was born by Caesarean section on April 21, 1962. St. Gianna died a week later of septic peritonitis. Saint Gianna was canonized by St. John Paul II on May 16, 2004. Her feast day is April 28. Today, her daughter Gianna Emanuela is a doctor of genetics.
Leaven story helps grandma pay it forward By Caleb Regan Special to The Leaven
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AWRENCE — For Perpetua “Betty” Dreiling, winning was one step below a long shot: The way she saw it, she had no shot. After all, not since the fifth grade had she won something in any sort of chance drawing. Even then, it was only a pasta strainer in a church bazaar bingo. “When I saw [the car raffle] in The Leaven, and I knew Father Mick [Mulvany, the pastor] from way back, I thought, ‘This is a good place, this helps the children, this helps with my charity contributions,’” she said. “So I was tickled to death,” she added. “That’s why I decided to go that way.” So Betty purchased a raffle ticket — or five raffle tickets to be exact, for $50, from Corpus Christi School in Lawrence, for a chance to win outright a Chevy Cruze LS or various multi-year leasing options. She was entered to win the new car. The car is part of a donation Greg Maurer, of Dale Willey Automotive, and his wife Kristin — parishioners and parents of son Garrett, who attended Corpus Christi — made not only in 2018, but for the upcoming 2019 and 2020 school years as well. And the story of stewardship continues. On the night of April 14, a name came out of the hopper: It was Betty Dreiling’s. Her plan for the car all along — from the day her daughter Anita Dougherty bought tickets on her behalf to the day she received news that she’d won — did not waver. The car was to go to her great-grandson Jack Dougherty, who goes to a Catholic school, Benilde-St.
PHOTO COURTESY OF CORPUS CHRISTI SCHOOL
Betty Dreiling talks with students at Corpus Christi School in Lawrence. Dreiling recently won a new car in the school’s raffle, which she will donate to her great-grandson. Margaret near Minneapolis. “This kid Jack, he’s a great, great kid,” explained Dreiling. “He has to work for everything he gets. And I don’t care if it’s swimming, math, or language, Jack will not give up. He’s going to work on it until he gets it.” “When he was confirmed, I gave him a brown rosary,” she continued. “You’d have thought I gave him $5,000. That rosary meant so much to him.” From the perspective of Corpus Christi School, it is a blessing to see that stewardship and support of Catholic education pay off to the benefit of a young adult who only recently passed his driver’s education classes and will soon start driving. “I’m continually amazed at the good-
ness of people. They believe in the vocation, they believe in the mission of Corpus Christi, a parish school,” said principal Mary Mattern, now in her 16th year at Corpus Christi. “Our parish family is a treasure,” she continued. “Whether someone has a child in the school who directly benefits or not, this community supports our mission and wraps its arms around their school. That speaks to the caliber and the level of love of the people we have in our parish community. They are family.” For a chance to enter Corpus Christi’s 2019 car raffle, buy a chance to win a brand-new car by sending an email to: calebr@cccparish.org. All proceeds benefit the parish school.
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Kansas passes Adoption Protection Act By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org
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OPEKA — How close was it? The Adoption Protection Act squeaked through the Kansas House by only one vote as the 2018 legislative session came to an end. On May 3, the House passed the bill 63-58; on May 4, the Senate passed it 24-15. “A bill must receive 63 votes in the 125member Kansas House of Representatives to pass. So, if it had only received 62 votes, it would have failed,” said Kansas Catholic Conference executive director Michael Schuttloffel. “It was that close.” Two identical bills, both known as the Adoption Protection Act, were introduced in February as HB 2687 and SB 401 in the House and Senate respectively. In the course of running the legislative gauntlet, the language was placed in another bill. “As part of the procedural maneuverings, the contents were put into SB 284, which includes some provisions beyond the Adoption Protection Act,” said Schuttloffel. This led to a change of language in part of the Adoption Protection Act, but it was done to clarify intent, and the core substance of the bill remained the same, he said. The Catholic bishops of Kansas strongly supported the legislation. They did so because faith-based adoption agencies in the United States have increasingly come under attack for adopting according to their faith. “This legislation was aimed at protecting religious-based agencies like Catholic Charities from being prevented from providing adoption and foster care services,” said Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann in a May 4 column in The Leaven. The bill “simply guarantees religious adoption agencies can continue to place children in a manner consistent with their beliefs.” Passage of this legislation provides crucial protection to a vital ministry, according to Schuttloffel. “The [just-passed] bill prevents the government from punishing faith-based adoption and foster care providers for operating according to their religious principles,” he said. “In Illinois, Washington, D.C., Massachusetts and elsewhere, Catholic Charities was forced to close its adoption ministry because government agencies insisted that they place children in a way that was contrary to the church’s teaching,” he added. Thanks to this new law, the state government will not be able to shut down Catholic Charities adoption ministry because a future governor or bureaucrat disagrees with Catholic teaching. “It also means that government agencies and contractors will not be able to discriminate against faith-based providers because they disagree with their religious beliefs,” said Schuttloffel. “Finally, it protects these faith-based providers from being sued by the ACLU.” On May 4, Gov. Jeff Colyer said in a press release that he’d sign the bill. “Catholic Charities and other adoption agencies are key to the fabric of our communities,” he said. “I look forward to signing this bill because it increases the opportunities for needy children to find loving homes.”
MAY 11, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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Larry and Evelyn (Schmitz) Heinen, m e m bers of Sts. Peter and Paul Parish, Seneca, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on May 6 with a Mass followed by a dinner and reception with family and friends in the parish hall. The couple was married at St. Mary Church, St. Benedict, on May 11, 1968, by Father Leander Scheier, OSB. They have four children: Terry Heinen, Brad Heinen, Dana Deters and Stacey Rodvelt. They also have four grandsons.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY CAROLYN KABERLINE
Clockwise, from left, second-graders Jesus Alavrez, Andre Wright, Jamison Smith, Andrea Sanchez, Valeria Luna, Reagann Trimble, Charlotte Fulton, Gabe Gaggero, Pavel Rodriguez, Jesstin Hernandez and Genesis Valdez gather around a bench in the rosary garden of St. Matthew School in Topeka and prepare to release their monarch.
Monarchs grace Topeka rosary garden Carolyn Kaberline Special to The Leaven
Leaven summer schedule The Leaven will begin its summer schedule following the May 25 issue. The following are the summer publication dates: June 8, June 22, July 6, July 20, Aug. 3, Aug. 17 and Aug. 31. The Leaven will resume its regular weekly schedule on Sept. 14.
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OPEKA — It was a warm bright morning as Janice Lobmeyer’s second-grade class gathered around the bench in the St. Matthew Prayer and Learning Garden, more commonly referred to as the rosary garden. Their attention was riveted on the small mesh container holding a brightly colored monarch. A hush fell over the students as the door to the container was opened, and the butterfly — which the class had raised from a caterpillar — quickly seized the opportunity to take flight. “We fed it; we saw it when it was trying to fly around,” says Pavel Rodriguez, a class member. “It was beautiful.” Valeria Luna, another secondgrader, agreed as she pointed to a nearby tree. “It has a lot of color,” she said. “It went to that tree when it could fly off.” Later that morning, kindergartners from Sarah Hunt’s class released another monarch that they had watched from the caterpillar stage. “The caterpillar kept changing,” said Michael Dimmer, one of the class members. “It peeled off its skin while making a chrysalis. It had orange and black spots.” Kindergartner Colin Potts was excited after the release of the class’s monarch. “It was on my finger and was kind of tickly before it flew off to the flowers and tree,” he enthused. Not only was the rosary garden the perfect spot for monarch releases, it has also been designated an official monarch waystation due to its abundance of zinnias, coneflowers and other monarch-friendly flowers. The waystation was established last spring and became one of 17,000 across the nation. Since then, students have studied the life cycle and
Mary K. (Foresman) and Francis Hurla, members of Sacred Heart Parish, Tonganoxie, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on May 19 with a reception at the Riford Senior Center, Tonganoxie. The couple was married on May 31, 1968, at Christ the King Church, Kansas City, Kansas. Their children are: Hope and Andy. They also have three grandchildren.
Catholic cemeteries to host Memorial Day Masses May 28
LEAVEN PHOTO BY CAROLYN KABERLINE
English Language Arts teacher Jennifer Dessert reads to students in her grades 3 to 5 group. migration patterns of the monarchs, whose habitat is shrinking rapidly due to the loss of milkweed and other nectar-producing plants. “We love bringing this into the classroom,” said fourth-grade paraprofessional Mary Alford. “Students can learn about the life cycle of butterflies and renewable resources by using the previous year’s seeds. “This works perfectly with monarchs, which are a symbol of the resurrection. Students also learn what can be done to protect monarchs.” In addition to serving as a monarch waystation, the garden has been used for much more since its creation in the fall of 2013 through funds provided by the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation Charitable Contributions, the Blue Cross Blue Shield Healthy Habits for Life grant and donations from St. Matthew Church. Not only has the St. Matthew Garden Club provided tulips and day lilies for the garden, but the club has also provided the mowing, landscaping and general upkeep. As his Eagle Scout project, parishioner Carson Scheer built two raised garden beds
with help from Troop 18 in the spring of 2014. These beds have been used by students to grow a variety of vegetables. Perhaps the garden’s biggest draw, however, is the rosary that winds through the garden — hence its name. The stones have been the site of numerous all-school rosaries since the garden’s dedication in May 2014. In addition to its service as a monarch waystation and quiet location for recitation of the rosary, the garden is used for many classes. “There are lots of secret places to sit and listen to nature,” said St. Matthew principal Heather Stessman. It is that closeness to nature that has made the garden the perfect place for classes to write journal entries, study poetry or learn about science, said middle school ELA teacher Jennifer Dessert. “We use the arts to engage students with science as part of our STREAM (science, technology, religion, engineering, arts and mathematics) studies,” she said. “The students have become much more involved through the garden.”
KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Catholic Cemeteries of Northeast Kansas has planned an extensive schedule of Memorial Day Masses on May 28 across various locations in Johnson, Leavenworth, Shawnee and Wyandotte counties. The schedule of Memorial Day Masses includes: • Mount Calvary Cemetery, 15825 S. 169 Highway, Olathe, 8 a.m.; celebrated by Father Anthony Lickteig • St. John Cemetery, Lenexa, 8:15 a.m. at Holy Trinity Church, 89th and Pflumm, Lenexa • Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 126th and Parallel, Kansas City, Kansas, 9 a.m., Holy Redeemer Chapel; celebrated by Father Joseph Arsenault, SSA • Mount Calvary Cemetery, 38th and State Ave., Kansas City, Kansas, 9 a.m.; celebrated by Father Michael Hermes • Resurrection Cemetery, 83rd and Quivira, Lenexa, 9 a.m.; Mass celebrated by Father Jerry Volz with liturgical music by Tom Jacobs • Mount Calvary Cemetery, 1011 N. Desoto Rd., Lansing, 9 a.m.; celebrated by Father William McEvoy • St. Joseph Cemetery, 61st Terr. and Quivira, Shawnee, 9 a.m.; celebrated by Father Michael Hawken • Mount Calvary Cemetery, 801 S.W. Westchester Rd., Topeka, 10 a.m.; celebrated by Father Tim Haberkorn with music by Spirit & Fire For more information, call (913) 3714040 (Kansas City area); (785) 272-0820 (Topeka area); or (913) 727-1698 (Lansing/Leavenworth area); send an email to: information@cathcemks.org; or visit the website at: www.cathcemks.org.
MAY 11, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
Sweeney’s invite planted a seed
TOOLS FOR FAMILIES Growing as Disciples of Jesus
May is Mary’s month Do you have an image of Our Lady in your home? If not, obtain a picture or statue by visiting your religious goods store or its online site. Place this image in a prominent place in your home. Let it be a good reminder to ask for her intercession throughout the day. Gather for a family rosary each ARTWORK BY NEILSON CARLIN, 2015 day; even with small children, praying a decade together is possible. Pope Francis urges us to pray for peace, especially in Syria. For daily marriage and family tips, go online to: www.foryourmarriage.org. — Deacon Tony Zimmerman, lead consultant for the archdiocesan office of marriage and family life
a little more defined and intentional,” he said. “During that time, he was very unsettled in his faith,” Barbara said. Nevertheless, Cook continued to be active in the Lutheran faith. When he and Barbara moved to Virginia for a TV job, Cook led a small congregation of Missouri Synod Lutheran as an unordained pastor. “I was blessed over the phone by the district president — who would be their equivalent of the bishop — to be the worship leader at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Lynchburg, Virginia,” he said. “And I loved it.” When the Cooks moved back to Kansas, Toby went through a diaconate program to become a lay minister. “Once I graduated from that, I spent the next 18 months at Missouri Synod Lutheran churches in the area, leading the worship services for churches that didn’t have pastors,” Cook said. Then the Royals came calling.
St. Mike the Evangelist
WEBSITE EXCLUSIVE
TEAM OF THE WEEK BASEBALL
Miege vs Aquinas
The Bishop Miege Stags and the St. Thomas Aquinas Saints took to the baseball diamond on May 7 for an Eastern Kansas League double header. The Leaven’s Doug Hesse was at the field capturing the action. To see his photos, go to The Leaven’s Facebook page.
Shortly after Cook took the Royals job, Royals first baseman Mike Sweeney asked the bishop of the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph to celebrate Mass at Kauffman Stadium. “Sweeney invited everybody to come — Catholics, non-Catholics, nonbelievers — he invited everyone to come to this Mass,” Cook said. “I did out of respect for Mike. It was great. I loved it.” That Mass planted the seed of Catholicism within Cook and it slowly began to grow. By 2007, that seed was in full bloom. “I had always been fascinated by the Catholic Church,” Cook said. “But I had this haughty, judgmental thought about them. “I used to say, ‘I find the Catholic Church the most fascinating and infuriating body of believers.’” But eventually, the fascination won out. Cook had watched Marcus Grodi’s EWTN show, “The Journey Home,” for years, in which individuals
LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER
Toby Cook sets up for Mass in a room at Kauffman Stadium. In the past, the Royals have offered Mass on Sundays during the baseball season. recounted their faith journey to the Catholic Church. Then he started reading people’s conversion stories. Finally, he read Steven Ray’s “Crossing the Tiber: Evangelical Protestants Discover the Historic Church” and felt he had to go to Mass. “It was awesome,” Cook said. That Monday, he called Church of the Ascension in Overland Park and met with a priest. “I told him, ‘I think I’m being called to investigate whether I’m supposed to become Catholic.” And he said, ‘What a holy quest.’” Fortunately for Cook, the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults program was starting in two weeks. He was going to join the church. And he wouldn’t be going alone.
Partners in faith Barbara encouraged Toby to join the Catholic Church — but she wasn’t quite ready to make the move herself. “I said, ‘Yes. Do it. Go.’ But I wasn’t there yet,” she said. Barbara was baptized into the Christian Church of the Disciples of Christ. In college, she joined the
Baptist Church. When she married Toby, she joined the Lutheran Church. Unlike Toby, Barbara was content with the Lutheran faith. But, eventually, Toby’s enthusiasm piqued her curiosity. “He would come home from work and tell me about some of the things he had read during the day, or things he heard on the radio, to and from work,” she said. “He was incredibly excited about it,” she added. Barbara did not delay long. She joined the RCIA a week after Toby did. Looking back, she knows it was the right decision. Now, more than 10 years later, Toby says he has found what he spent years searching for. “When I came into the church, I realized that I was called to be a Catholic husband and father — period,” Cook said. “And that was the vocation. “It was humbling, but it felt right.” Barbara agreed. “I remember looking at him one day,” she said. “I just looked at him and said, ‘We’re home. We’re home.’ “That was the best feeling in the world.”
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MAY 11, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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Women’s Bible study explores early formation of the church By Susan Fotovich McCabe Special to The Leaven
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ENEXA — The early formation of the Catholic Church and its missionary roots captured the attention of the Inter-Parish Women’s Bible Study group at one of the group’s recent lessons at which Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann was the featured speaker. Held at Holy Trinity Church in Lenexa, the Bible study has spent 26 weeks exploring the “Great Adventure Bible Timeline” by Ascension Press. More than 163 women and 190 children from 25 area parishes attended the study. While some of the children stay with their mothers during the session, more than 100 attend the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program in nearby classrooms. Kathryn Burditt, a member of Holy Trinity, co-founded the group with her sister Laura Haeusser, a parishioner of Holy Cross in Overland Park, 16 years ago. “As Catholics, we don’t study Scripture as much as we should,” she said. “This Bible study helps keep our hands on the Bible as much as possible.” “It’s not such a scary book,” Burditt continued. “Our participants are always thirsty for more information about the Bible. Even if you’ve read it many times, it offers a different perspective each
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“THE WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY GIVES ME THE OPPORTUNITY TO KNOW MY FAITH MORE FULLY. TOGETHER THEY BRING ME TO A DEEPER RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD.”
time, especially if you’re in a different place in your life.” And Bible study is there for us all, regardless of our level of education or familiarity with it, she said. “People who have never opened a Bible and those who consider themselves well-versed gain new perspective each time,” said Burditt. “We’re getting to individuals wherever they are in their life.” In his presentation, Archbishop Naumann addressed how, after the resurrection of Christ, we begin to see the formation of the Catholic Church, and how important a sense of community was to proclaiming the Gospel. “As we reflect on the Acts of the
Apostles, it gives us time to think about the early structure of the church,” Archbishop Naumann said. “Jesus did not give his disciples an organization chart. He gave them a bare-bones structure,” he said. “The apostles, like Moses in the Old Testament, began to delegate some of their authority. That is how the small structure quickly took form.” This is Katie Burton’s second year participating in the Bible study. Interested in both this year’s topic and a desire to grow her faith, Burton brings her children with her as part of their home schooling. The Overland Park family belongs to Holy Spirit. “I was happy all my kids could go to Catechesis or be with me,” Burton said. “Each week, a speaker will say something that resonates with me. It encourages me to go deeper in prayer and not let the craziness of life crowd out that prayer time.” Similarly, Shawnee resident Monica Morrison, who attends St. Rose Philippine Duchesne in Westwood and is one of the group’s discussion leaders, finds inspiration in attending the Bible study. “After being away from the Catholic Church for over four decades, the Latin Mass is what brought me back into the church,” she said. “However, the Women’s Bible Study gives me the opportunity to know my faith more fully. Together, they bring me to a deeper relationship with God.”
There’s a sense of community among the women of all ages who attend the Bible study. That, according to Archbishop Naumann, is one of the key lessons from studying the Acts of the Apostles. “The family is the first place we’re called to live the life of the Gospel,” he said. “We need to stretch ourselves in service to others. They will reveal to us God’s presence through mutual sharing.” “Unfortunately, our culture works against it,” he continued. “For example, air conditioning was a bad idea. It keeps us holed up in our houses and we don’t know our neighbors. “This Bible study is very important. Small faith communities are important in the sharing of the Gospel. We need to be intentional in formulating this community.” As a final thought, the archbishop emphasized that we all must be evangelists — that the directive to spread the Gospel is something we all share as Christians. “Evangelization is first about friendship and taking an interest in others,” he said. “It’s then that we have the opportunity to share what motivates and inspires us. “When people see joy and love in us, they want to know what inspires us. That’s when we can share the Gospel.”
FIGHT PORNOGRAPHY WITH THE FACTS Science explains porn’s addictive appeal
those neuro connectors, it makes you want to repeat that behavior.” Olsen explained that when drugs are introduced into the body, it forces EAWOOD — Remember the the release of pleasure chemicals in good ol’ days when children the reward pathway to the point where were prescribed cocaine the brain builds a dependency to that pills for toothaches? level of release. Or nursing mothers were “You end up choosing that addicprescribed alcohol for the health bentive behavior over the things you efits it would pass on to their babies? once knew you liked to do just to feel Both have been true in recent histonormal,” said Olsen. ry, explained Clay Olsen in a presen“Based on studies coming out of tation to seventh- and eighth-graders Yale, Cambridge and many other locaat St. Michael the Archangel School in tions doing brain scans and studies on Leawood on April 12. this subject,” he said, “we now know And each has been proven extremethat when it comes to the brain, addicly harmful by modern science. tion is addiction.” “Science had to catch up with truth,” Regardless of the said Olsen. “Once source. science figures it And pornograout, then society phy consumption catches up.” • Covenant Eyes (covenanteyes.com) can create addicOlsen’s reason • Net Nanny (netnanny.com) tion, which is due for sharing these • Circle (meetcircle.com) to the neuroplastiexamples was both • Zift (wezift.com) city of the brain. serious and sober“That was a huge ing. discovery to help “We are in a simus understand that not all addictions ilar learning experience today in our come from chemicals you put inside history regarding the topic of pornogyour body,” he said. raphy,” said Olsen. “Today, thanks to “[The brain] is constantly changing, research and studies, we’ve now disadapting and rewiring according to covered that pornography is harming what you do, think and consume on a us . . . and is impacting us neurologiregular basis — what you spend your cally [and] relationally. It’s impacting time focusing on,” said Olsen. our society.” That neuroplastic process, while it Olsen is a co-founder of Fight the allows for adaptation and growth, can New Drug, a nonprofit organization be a massive disadvantage if the brain committed to using nothing but facts is hijacked by frequent or even periodfrom scientific study, research and peric pornography consumption, Olsen sonal accounts to educate and commuexplained. nicate the harmful effects of pornogIn addition to outlining how viewraphy. He travels the world addressing ing pornography impacts the brain in the harms of pornography. the same way as a drug, he also disOlsen began by explaining the scicussed its impact on the heart and soence behind addiction. ciety, from what and how much people “There is an actual science behind love to how they think about loved why addiction happens,” he said. ones and how they express love. “Inside of the brain you each have a Drawing on personal accounts reward pathway. Inside the reward from people like Terry Crews, an NFL pathway when you do something cool player and actor, and Garrett Johnson, or fun that you like, pleasure chemicals a man who ran 30 marathons in 30 days like dopamine are released. Between
By Olivia Martin olivia.martin@theleaven.org
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Protective Software
JUST THE FACTS SOURCE: FIGHTTHENEWDRUG.ORG
• A study done by NYU and the University of Arkansas found that 88 percent of the most popular content available online was found to be physically and verbally aggressive to women.
Clay Olsen, a co-founder of Fight the New Drug, delivers a presentation to seventh- and eighth-graders a in handcuffs and rode his bike across America in chains to fight his pornography addiction and raise awareness, Olsen stressed that pornography is not a battle without victories. “Relationships are powerful, and they are at the center of where we find a lot of happiness and joy in this life,” he said. “This topic is far more about fighting for real love and real connection.” While challenging the middle schoolers to take courage and openly speak out about the counterfeit version of love and intimacy pornography sells, he warned: “A lot of times people refer to themselves as a bad person for dealing with this. Rather than using that kind of framework to describe yourself or anybody else, we need to respond with love and support and encouragement. If we do that, we’re going to move forward in a healthier direction as a collective society.” “Can you guys do that?” he asked. “Can you respond with love and support rather than shame and judgment?” Students had a moment at the end of the presentation to sign the Fighter
• Nine states have actually declared pornography a public health crisis: Arkansas, Tennessee, Utah, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Virginia, Kansas and North Dakota.
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“IT’S NOT A QUESTION OF ‘IF’ MY KID HAS BEEN EXPOSED TO [PORNOGRAPHY]. ’IF’ IS OUT THE WINDOW — IT IS A QUESTION OF ‘WHEN’ AND ‘TO WHAT DEGREE.’”
Pledge, promising to be fighters for real and authentic love, unintimidated by society’s lies or the destructive lies of the pornography industry. “We can feel overwhelmed [at times],” said Father Brian Schieber in a closing prayer, “but together, when we’re supporting each other, [change] is possible.” After the presentation, parents had an opportunity to participate in a Q&A session with Olsen. From questions about how pornog-
• German researchers recently found that there is an association between the number of hours of pornography someone consumes each week and less gray matter in their brains. Gray matter is associated with decision making and intelligence.
• Among the effects of the use of pornography are an increased negative attitude toward women, decreased empathy for victims of sexual violence . . . and an increase in dominating and sexually imposing behavior.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY DOUG HESSE
at St. Michael the Archangel School in Leawood on April 12. raphy has fueled the #MeToo movement to whether pornography has affected Europe differently than America, Olsen pointed out that because we all share the same brains, pornography is harming our societies in very similar ways regardless of culture. But those questions were only the beginning. “A lot of parents ask what the signs of [pornography consumption] are,” began Olsen, saying many times they’re the same as simply being a teenager. “[And] it’s not a question of ‘if’ my kid has been exposed to it,” he added. “‘If’ is out the window — it is a question of ‘when’ and ‘to what degree.’ “It’s impacting across the board (culturally, economically and religiously). It’s impacting us all.” Advocating for “one-time” talks about pornography and healthy relationships to be things of the past, Olsen pleaded with parents to start early — when children are 7 or 8 years old — and engage in ongoing conversations with them. “When you open up this conversation . . . don’t say much,” said Olsen. “Ask questions and listen. Figure out
• The Department of Justice and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children both recognize that pornography is an element that adds to the serious problem of sex trafficking.
where their understanding is, what knowledge they have, what misconceptions they have, and listen, let them open up without jumping down their throat. “Second, research the facts. . . help them understand. “Third, share your family values and belief system. “Fourth, repeat.” While the widespread and pernicious nature of pornography can be daunting, Olsen encouraged parents to take heart, breathe and focus on teaching something more important than the dangers of pornography: love. “We want to teach them about the good and the beauty before we teach them about the counterfeits,” he said. “Porn kills love. . . . Over time, we’ve seen this movement (against pornography) expand into a movement for love. We are fighting for real connection, real intimacy and real love. It’s pretty inspiring.” For research, sources, real personal accounts and more, visit the website at: www.fightthenewdrug.org
Fight the New Drug is a nonreligious and nonlegislative organization that exists to provide individuals the opportunity to make an informed decision regarding pornography by raising awareness of its harmful effects using only science, facts and personal accounts.
SOURCE: FIGHTTHENEWDRUG.ORG/10-PORN-STATS-THAT-WILL-BLOW-YOUR-MIND/
MAY 11, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
NATION
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No phantom threads in ‘Heavenly Bodies’ exhibit in New York By Mark Pattison Catholic News Service
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ASHINGTON (CNS) — The sectarian will meet the secular in an unusual way with the May 10 debut of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s exhibit “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination” in New York City. Included will be not only high fashion meant for the taste-making laity, but vestments and accoutrements from 15 different papacies from the 18th to the early 21st centuries. “The loan from the Office of the Liturgical Celebrations of the Supreme Pontiff was negotiated over a period of approximately two years. It required eight trips to the Vatican,” said Andrew Bolton, head curator of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute. The British-born Bolton said the exhibit will include vestments made for clergy by designers. “One example was designed by Jean-Charles de Castelbajac for St. John Paul II to wear on World Youth Day in August 1997,” he said. “It is a chasuble embroidered with rainbow-hued Byzantine crosses by Maison Lesage, one of the oldest and most eminent embroidery houses serving the haute couture.” Bolton responded by email to questions submitted by Catholic News Service. The influence of the church on some
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“IT IS OUR HOPE THAT THE EXHIBITION WILL PROMOTE AN UNDERSTANDING OF THE SYMBIOTIC AND SOMETIMES MUTUALLY INSPIRING RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN FASHION AND RELIGION. of yesterday’s — and today’s — top designers is considerable. “Coco Chanel, who was educated in the orphanage at the monastery of Aubazine (France), often imbued subtle references to Catholicism in her work,” Bolton said. “In particular, she became known for her religious-inspired costume jewelry that she was regularly photographed wearing. This included a ‘sautoir’ (a ribbon or chain around the neck) that bears a formal relationship to the rosary with its five decades of prayer beads.” In addition to Castelbajac, other designers raised Catholic whose works are included in the exhibition include Marc Bohan, Thom Browne, Ann Demeulemeester, Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, John Galliano, Jean-Paul Gaultier, Christian Lacroix, Jeanne Lanvin, Shaun Leane, Kate and Laura Mulleavy, Rick Owens, Pierpaolo
Piccioli, Riccardo Tisci, Donatella and Gianni Versace and Yves Saint Laurent. “Their relationships to Catholicism vary considerably,” Bolton said, but “most acknowledge its significant influence over their imaginations.” One designer Bolton highlighted was Spain’s Cristobal Balenciega (18951972). “Raised Catholic, he was a man of profound religious conviction and spirituality, qualities reflected not only in his ascetical fashions but also in his design practice,” Bolton said. “During his lifetime, his approach to creation was likened by many as a ‘religious vocation,’ while his atelier (studio) was often compared to a monastery. As a child, Balenciaga was an altar boy, and growing up he considered following his uncle (Julian) — the parish priest of the local Church of San Salvador in Guetaria (Spain) — into the clergy.” Bolton has a ready response to those who would derisively dismiss anything connected with the church by using the well-worn trope, “The pope wears a dress.” “It is our hope that the exhibition will promote an understanding of the symbiotic and sometimes mutually inspiring relationship between fashion and religion. Fashion’s engagement with Catholicism belongs to a lineage rooted in artistic tradition and continues the ever-evolving relationship between art and religion,” he said. “It is a rare and exciting opportunity that we hope will engage a diverse and vast audience — Catholic and non-Catholic.”
CNS PHOTO/COURTESY METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART, DIGITAL COMPOSITE SCAN BY KATERINA JEBB
This digital composite scan of “Evening Coat, Cristobal Balenciaga for House of Balenciaga” 1954-55 is part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s exhibit “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination,” which debuts May 10 in New York City. The Met, as the museum is commonly known in and around the Big Apple, is launching “Heavenly Bodies” at two locations: four galleries inside its Fifth Avenue site and the aptly named Met Cloisters at Fort Tryon Park. The exhibit will run through Oct. 8.
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MAY 11, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
VATICAN
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Theologians call for consultation of laity in church decisions By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service
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ATICAN CITY (CNS) — The Catholic Church needs to seek the input, commitment and talents of all of its members if it is to be truly catholic and to evangelize effectively, said a new document from the International Theological Commission. Pope Francis has called for the church to be “synodal,” which does not just mean holding regular meetings of the world Synod of Bishops, but constantly finding ways to live and work in the world with a greater sense of the value of the prayers, experience and advice of everyone in the church — including laypeople, the document said. “Synodality in the Life and Mission of the Church” was published in early May with the approval of Archbishop Luis Ladaria, prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, and the authorization of Pope Francis. The new document explored Pope Francis’ frequent calls for the church to be “synodal” or characterized by “walking together” as the pilgrim people of God. Theologians said a synodal attitude and way of being church flowed naturally from the Second Vatican Council’s description of the church as a communion and its emphasis on the responsibility of all Catholics for the church’s life and mission, although each person has been given different gifts and roles by the Holy Spirit.
CNS PHOTO/PAUL HARING
Cardinal Lorenzo Baldisseri, secretary-general of the Synod of Bishops, Pope Francis and Cardinal Kevin Farrell, prefect of the Dicastery for Laity, the Family and Life, pose for a photo during a pre-synod gathering of youth delegates in Rome March 19. A new document from the International Theological Commission explores the pope’s call for the church to be “synodal” and emphasizes the role of the laity in the mission of the church. The document explored ways the church already exercises synodality, including through parish councils, diocesan presbyteral councils, national bishops’ conferences, regional councils of bishops, the synods of bishops of the Eastern Catholic churches, the world Synod of Bishops and ecumenical councils, like Vatican II. While synodality is based on the baptismal gifts and responsibilities of each Catholic, the document said, it is not a call for some form of a Catholic parliament. The pope and the bishops,
assisted by their priests, still retain their decision-making authority. But “the participation of the lay faithful is essential,” the document said. “They are the vast majority of the people of God and there is much to learn from their participation in the various expressions of the life and mission of the ecclesial community, in popular piety and in pastoral work as a whole, as well as from their specific competence in the various spheres of cultural and social life.” Any process of church discernment,
the theologians wrote, should begin with a consultation of the laity and for that to be effective, laymen and laywomen must be given more opportunities for education in the faith and more spaces in the church where they can learn to express themselves. The document emphasized the need for all church members to be better educated in “the spirituality of communion and the practice of listening, dialogue and communal discernment.” Because the Holy Spirit works within all the baptized, it said, “the renewal of the synodal life of the church requires activating processes of consultation with the whole People of God,” including laymen and laywomen. Synodality, it said, promotes the baptismal dignity and call of all Catholics, values the presence of different gifts given by the Holy Spirit and recognizes the specific ministry entrusted to pastors and bishops in communion with the pope for the preservation of the faith and the renewal of the church. “The authority of the pastors is a specific gift of the Spirit of Christ, the head, for the edification of the entire body, not a function delegated by and representative of the people,” the theologians wrote. The synodal nature of the church is not something activated only on special occasions, the document said. “It must be expressed in the church’s ordinary way of living and working,” which always begins with prayer and listening to God’s word, then trying to discern together where and how the Holy Spirit is calling the community to act.
MAY 11, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
CLASSIFIEDS
EMPLOYMENT President and CEO - Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas (CCNEK) is seeking to recruit a new president and CEO. In partnership with the board of directors, this position is responsible for the organization’s overall success. This is a high-level leadership position that requires a bachelor’s degree (graduate degree preferred) and demonstrated success with a minimum of 10 years of experience in a senior management position. CCNEK is a ministry of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and this position will have administrative leadership responsibility there in addition to CCNEK. Qualified candidates should email their resume to Dan Heiman, Cornerstone Executive Search, at: danh@cornerstone-kc.com or call (913) 341-7655 for additional information. Teacher assistant - Special Beginnings, Lenexa, is seeking full- or part-time after-school teacher assistants at all locations. We are looking for a teacher assistant candidate who has an excellent work ethic, heart for children and a willingness to learn more about early childhood education. Experience and/or education is a plus, but we will train the right candidate. Teacher assistants will work with the lead teacher to care for and educate the children. Primary responsibilities include assisting the lead teacher with: care and supervision of children, lesson plan implementation, parent communication, and cleanliness and organization of classroom. Starting hourly pay ranges based on experience and education. Pay increases are based on job performance. Opportunities for advancement are available, as the company prefers to promote from within. Apply by sending an email to: chris@specialbeginningsonline.com or in person at 10216 Pflumm Rd., Lenexa, KS 66215. Drivers - Special Beginnings Early Learning Center is seeking part-time drivers for its school-age program located in Lenexa. Candidates must be able to drive a 13-passenger minibus, similar to a 15-passenger van. CDL not required, but must have an excellent driving record. Candidates would pick up children from area schools and then work directly with them when arriving back at the center. Experience preferred. Must have strong work ethic and the ability to work with children. Insurance provided. Background check will be conducted. Great opportunity for retired persons or those seeking a second job. Job responsibilities include: ensuring safety and well-being of children who are being transported at all times, including loading and unloading. Driving short, round-trip routes to elementary schools in Lenexa/Olathe area. Summer only: Driving short, round- trip routes to two Lenexa city pools. Maintaining mileage log. Keeping interior of vehicle clean. Apply by sending an email to: chris@specialbeginningsonline. com or in person at 10216 Pflumm Rd., Lenexa, KS 66215. Preschool teaching positions - St. Ann Young Child Center in Prairie Village is looking to fill staff positions for the 201819 school year. Seeking a part-time 3-year-olds preschool teaching position for Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:45 a.m. - noon. A degree in education is required. Also seeking a part-time preschool aide for Monday - Friday from 8:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. Experience preferred but not necessary. Finally, seeking an extended-day aide for Monday through Friday from 3 - 6 p.m. If you love working with children and are looking for part-time work at our distinguished Young Child Center, call Tati at (913) 362-4660. Youth outreach coordinator - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking a dynamic individual for urban youth ministry at Reach KCK. The Wyandotte County youth outreach coordinator will assist with the creation and implementation of programs, as well as develop training for those serving the evangelization, youth ministry and catechesis efforts in Wyandotte County. The ideal candidate will be committed to Catholic teaching, knowledgeable in theology and catechesis, and possess leadership skills with a track record of innovation and collaboration. This position requires fluent bilingual abilities in English and Spanish; a bachelor’s degree, preferably in youth ministry, theology or related field; master’s degree preferred. Also a minimum of five years of program management experience relatable to the position is preferred. For a full job description, go to: www.archkck.org/jobs. Interested candidates must submit a cover letter expressing your desire to serve the church in this position; resume; letter of support from your pastor; and a completed application form (available on the web page) to: jobs@archkck.org, or by mail to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Human Resources – Urban Youth Search, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Submission deadline: May 4. Principal - St. James Parish, located in south St. Joseph, Missouri, seeks a principal committed to Catholic education with strong leadership, communication and motivational skills. Saint James School is a parish school serving approximately 145 pre-K to 8th-grade students with a staff of 15. The applicant must be a practicing Catholic; should have a master’s degree in educational administration; teaching experience and preferably three years’ administrative experience. This position leads school programs which ensure academic excellence. The applicant must be mission-driven and open to initiatives such as a classical approach to the spiritual, moral, physical and emotional development of the school community which enhances catholicity and effectiveness of education. This person is supervised by the pastor of the parish and the assigned superintendent of schools.
Campaign coordinator – The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking a full-time campaign coordinator with the expectation that the position will last approximately 18 months or longer. This position is temporary and benefit eligible. Duties include: providing support to the campaign executive director and campaign team; coordinating the collection and processing of weekly reports; reporting and queries from Raiser’s Edge; data entry and various other campaign tasks. The ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic in good standing and have one to three years’ experience in an office environment; nonprofit experience and college degree preferred. A complete job description, application and benefits information are available on the archdiocese’s website at: www.archkck.org/jobs. Interested individuals should mail cover letter, resume and application to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, Campaign Coordinator Search, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, or send via email to: jobs@archkck.org. This position will remain open until filled. Lead and assistant teachers - The Goddard School located at 21820 W. 115th Terr., Olathe, is looking for qualified lead teachers and assistant teachers — both full- and part- time positions are available. In our warm, loving atmosphere, our highly qualified teachers support the healthy development of children from 6 weeks to 6 years. Our teachers write and implement their own lesson plans based on our FLEX program, Goddard Developmental Guidelines and our monthly school theme. Lead teachers also complete other duties such as electronic daily attendance reports, progress reports and parent conferences. The hands-on efforts of the school owner and directors allow our teachers to focus on their children, their lesson plans and teaching to ensure a fun-filled day of learning. Full-time benefits include: competitive pay; paid time off; opportunities for professional development and career growth; and a great working environment. Qualified candidates must meet or exceed Kansas regulations, have strong communication skills and desire to learn and implement the Goddard School programs. Lead teachers should have an early childhood education degree or a CDA or a degree in a related field with an emphasis in early childhood education. Prior experience in a child care setting is preferred. To apply, email your resume to: olathe2ks@goddardschools.com or mail to: The Goddard School, 21820 W. 115th Terr., Olathe, KS 66061, Attention: Mandy Ellis, director. Pro-Life ministry program coordinator - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking a program coordinator for the pro-life office. This position assists the lead pro-life consultant in implementing the office’s initiatives: Project Rachel/Project Joseph providing healing from abortion; and Project Gabriel in supporting those facing unplanned pregnancies. The coordinator contributes to the development and implementation of programs for the various ministries within the pro-life office and ensures these programs and other resources are communicated to archdiocesan priests and people in need of these healing and supportive services. Requires a bachelor’s degree, prefer social work or counseling. The individual must have a firm foundation in the Catholic Church’s teachings on abortion and a commitment to ongoing professional development in the areas of post-abortion and unplanned pregnancy programs. The position requires demonstrated skill in the areas of compassionate leadership, written and verbal communication, and confidentiality. A complete job description, application and benefits information are available on the archdiocese’s website at: www.archkck.org/jobs. Interested individuals should send a cover letter, resume, application and pastor’s letter of support via email to: jobs@archkck.org; or mail to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, Pro Life Program Coordinator Search, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Submission deadline: May 4. RCIA and confirmation coordinator - St. Ann Church in Prairie Village has a part-time position available for an RCIA and confirmation coordinator. This individual will be responsible for leading weekly RCIA sessions with catechumens and candidates, participating in all relevant liturgical rites, and maintaining regular contact with the catechumens during their formation, especially during their first year as Catholics. As confirmation coordinator, this individual will instruct and form 8thgraders at both St. Ann School and the St. Ann School of Religion in their Catholic faith; communicate with candidates, sponsors and parents about their responsibilities; and coordinate the confirmation liturgy under the direction of the pastor. The RCIA and confirmation coordinator may also be asked to teach adult faith formation classes and assist the pastor in other teaching duties as necessary. Candidates for this position must be active Catholics, understand the teachings of the Catholic Church, and be able to effectively instruct and communicate with both adults and teenagers. The RCIA and confirmation coordinator position is expected to be approximately 20 hours per week. Individuals interested in the position should email a cover letter and resume highlighting their qualifications to Father Craig Maxim at: frcraig@stannpv.org. Prep cook - Shang Tea Dim Sum and Teahouse is now hiring one kitchen prep cook to work from 9:30 a.m. 3 p.m., approximately 20 - 30 hours per week. We also need staff in the tea shop to assist with lunch hour 3 - 5 days a week in a positive and friendly environment. Must be detail-oriented and have excellent customer service skills. Being a healthy food and tea lover a plus. Call Kristen between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. at (816) 4212588.
Child care position - Holy Rosary, Wea, child care facility is looking for a caring, compassionate child care worker who has experience caring for children ages 6 weeks to 3 years of age. If you are a timely, patient and caring professional with a background in child care, contact Katrina or Amy at (913) 533-2462. Caregivers - We help seniors stay independent. You are passionate about caregiving. Benefits of Home - Senior Care is looking for compassionate caregivers to help us care for our clients! Part or full time, we work to meet your schedule and provide training. (913) 422-1422 or www.benefitsofhome.com. Head football coach - Bishop Ward High School in Kansas City, Kansas, is seeking candidates for a head football coach for the 2018-19 school year. If interested, submit a cover letter and resume to athletic director Mike Beven at: mbeaven@wardhigh.org. Do you enjoy driving? - The Kansas City Transportation Group is looking for chauffeurs to drive our guests to events, airport, dinner, etc. Business is growing and we are in need of workers with flexible hours, those who are retired, etc. Great pay and benefits. Send resume to: jkalbert@kctg.com or in person at Carey, 1300 Lydia Ave., Kansas City, MO 64106. Teacher - Bishop Miege High School has an opening for a Spanish teacher for the 2018-19 school year. Send letter of interest and resume to: mjaksa@bishopmiege. com. Coach - Bishop Miege High School has openings for a boys tennis coach (spring) and a girls tennis coach (fall). Contact Mike Hubka at: mhubka@bishopmiege.com or call (913) 222-5802.
HOME IMPROVEMENT EL SOL Y LA TIERRA *Commercial & residential * Lawn renovation *Mowing * Clean-up and hauling * Dirt grading/installation * Landscape design * Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!! www.elsolylatierra.com Call Lupe at (816) 935-0176
Decked Out In KC - We fix decks. We repair, power wash and stain wood decks and fences. We power wash and seal concrete drives, walkways, pool decks and more. Call Brian at (913) 952-5965. Member of Holy Trinity Parish. Concrete construction - Tear out and replace stamped, stained or colored patios and drives. Retaining walls, footings, poured-in-place safe rooms, excavation and hauling. Asphalt drives and lots. Fully insured; references. Call Dan at (913) 207-4371 or send an email to: dandeeconst@aol. com. NELSON CREATION’S L.L.C. Home makeovers, kitchen, bath. All interior and exterior remodeling and repairs. Family owned, experienced, licensed and insured. Member St. Joseph, Shawnee. Kirk Nelson. (913) 927-5240; nelsport@everestkc.net STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Free estimates. Call (913) 579-1835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.
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The Drywall Doctor, Inc. – A unique solution to your drywall problems! We fix all types of ceiling and wall damage — from water stains and stress cracks to texture repairs and skim coating. We provide professional, timely repairs and leave the job site clean! Lead-certified and insured! Serving the metro since 1997. Call (913) 768-6655. Swalms organizing - downsizing - cleanout service Reduce clutter – Any space organized. Shelving built onsite. Items hauled for recycling and donations. 20 years exp.; insured. Call Tillar at (913) 375-9115. WWW.SWALMS ORGANIZING.COM. Rusty Dandy Painting, Inc. – We have been coloring your world for 40 years. Your home will be treated as if it were our own. Old cabinets will be made to look like new. Dingy walls and ceilings will be made beautiful. Woodwork will glow. Lead-certified and insured. Call (913) 341-9125.
SERVICES 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) 6492704. Visit the website at: www.quiltedmemoriesllc.com. Rodman Lawn Care Lawn mowing, aeration, verticutting, mulching, Hedge trimming, leaf removal, gutter cleaning Fully insured and free estimates John Rodman (913) 548-3002 Cleaning lady - Reasonable rates; references provided. Call (913) 940-2959. Win disability benefits - Disabled and no longer able to work? Get help winning Social Security disability benefits. Free consultation. Eight years’ experience. No fee unless you win. Call (785) 331-6452 or send an email to: montemace2000@yahoo.com or visit montemacedisability.com. 8 to Your IdealWeight Get Real, Get Healthy, Get Empowered. Release your weight and restore your power in 8 weeks! Certified coach: kathioppold.8toyouridealweight.com. 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 KOATorganizing@gmail.com. Insured. References. Speedy Guzman Moving and delivery Licensed and insured Anytime (816) 935-0176 Bankruptcy consultation - If debts are overwhelming you, seek hope and help from compassionate, experienced Catholic attorney, Teresa Kidd. For a free consultation, call (913) 422-0610; send an email to: tkidd@ kc.rr.com; or visit the website at: www.teresakiddlawyer.com. Please do not wait until life seems hopeless before getting good quality legal advice that may solve your financial stress. Professional window cleaner - Residential only. Fully insured. Over 40 years experience. Free estimates. Contact Gene Jackson at (913) 593-1495.
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.
Custom countertops - Laminates installed within five days. Cambria, granite and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee.
Father-and-son home exteriors and remodeling - Celebrating my 15th year in The Leaven as a small business owner! We do decks, siding, windows, doors, tile work, floors, wood rot, and interior and exterior painting. We can remodel bathrooms, kitchens or basements. We also reface cabinets and redo pesky popcorn ceilings. Call Josh at (913) 709-7230.
Mike Hammer local moving - A full-service mover. Packing, pianos, rental truck load/unload, storage container load/unload, and in-home moving. No job too small. Serving JoCo since 1987. St. Joseph, Shawnee, parishioner. Call Mike at (913) 927-4347 or send an email to: mike@mikehammermoving.com.
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. HARCO Exteriors LLC Your Kansas City fencing specialists Family owned and operated (913) 815-4817 www.harcoexteriorsllc.com Masonry work - Quality new or repair work. Brick, block and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; second-generation bricklayer. Member of St. Paul Parish, Olathe. Call (913) 829-4336.
Tree Trimming Tree Trimming/Landscaping Insured/References Free Estimates/Local Parishioner Tony (913) 620-6063
CAREGIVING Act now! - Companion, caregiver, will give superior personalized care for you or your loved one. Retired nurse; cosmetology and massage therapy training. Will take to Mass, doctor, hospital, traveling, movies, out to eat, etc. Will do light housekeeping and grocery shopping. Call (913) 701-6381. CNA - Professional background in caregiving, provides quality private home care assistance for the elderly in the comfort of you home. Part-time or full-time assignments. Will consider live-in arrangements. 20 years’ seasoned experience. Dedicated to clients. Call (816) 806-8104. >> Classifieds continue on page 13
MAY 11, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
CALENDAR THE WORLD OF MOTHER TERESA Mother Teresa Parish 2014 N.W. 46th St., Topeka May 14 at 5:30 p.m. (meal), 7 p.m. (presentation)
Linda Schaefer, a photojournalist, will take the audience on a journey into the world of Mother Teresa. There will be a taco bar meal followed by the presentation. The suggested donation is a freewill offering.
MINISTERING TO BODY, MIND AND SPIRIT Sophia Spirituality Center 751 S. 8th St., Atchison May 10 from 1 - 5 p.m.
This workshop is for everyone interested in learning how to integrate body, mind and spirit for enhanced wellness and wholeness. For more information or to register, call (913) 360-6173 or visit the website at: www.sophiaspiritualitycenter.org.
ROSARY RALLY IN HONOR OF OUR LADY OF FATIMA Church of the Ascension 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park May 13 from 3 - 4:15 p.m.
We will pray the joyful, sorrowful and glorious mysteries of the rosary. Benediction will follow, as well as an opportunity for attendees to enroll in the brown scapular. For more information, visit the website at: www. rosaryrallieskc.org.
WOMEN’S SELF-DEFENSE TECHNIQUES Keeler Women’s Center 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kansas May 16 from 10 - 11 a.m.
Protect yourself or another from an aggressor. Learn basic self-defense strategies as presented by Kansas City Tsuruoka Karate. The presenter is Susana Marcos.
FEAST OF ST. ISIDORE AND ST. MARIA Christ’s Peace House of Prayer 22131 Meagher Rd., Easton May 15 at noon
The afternoon will begin with Mass. Bring a container of soil from your property to be blessed at Mass. Send us the name of your farm or business so that we can have it blessed. After Mass, there will be a procession to the outdoor shrine to Sts. Isidore and Maria where we will pray the rosary. Afterward, there will be lunch and time for visiting. Call (913) 773-8255 or send an email to: info@christspeace.com so we know how much food to prepare.
PENTECOST VIGIL St. Michael the Archangel Parish (hall) 14251 Nall Ave., Leawood May 19 at 6 p.m.
There will be a talk on baptism in the Holy Spirit followed by a time of praise and worship, eucharistic adoration and an opportunity for prayer ministry.
MEMORIAL LITURGY Curé of Ars 9405 Mission Rd., Leawood May 19 at 8 a.m.
There will be a memorial liturgy for deceased loved ones followed by a grief support meeting in the Father Burak Room. The topic will be: “Lessons on Grief From C.S. Lewis.” For more information, call (913) 649-2026.
PENTECOST VIGIL Sanctuary of Hope 2601 Ridge Ave., Kansas City, Kansas May 19 from 9 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.
There will be a nationally known author and speaker on the Holy Spirit with reflection time, small group discussions and the vigil Mass of Pentecost. The cost for the full day is: $15 per person; $25 per couple; and free for
teens and religious. Meals (optional) must be ordered and paid for before May 14. The cost for lunch is $10 per person, and dinner is $10 per person.
‘SWING FOR LIFE’ SCRAMBLE GOLF TOURNAMENT Painted Hills Golf Course 7101 Parallel Ave., Kansas City, Kansas May 22 at 7 a.m. (shotgun start)
Kansans for Life is hosting this golf tournament. The entry fee is $100 per golfer and $400 per team. If you are unable to attend but would like to participate, consider being a sponsor. For more information, visit the website at: www. SwingForLife.Golf or call (913) 642-5433.
KANSAS CITY CATHOLIC HOME-SCHOOL CONFERENCE Church of the Ascension 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park June 1 and 2
Registration is now open for the 2018 conference. Visit the website at: kccatholichome schooler.org to see a list of speakers and to register. Early registration lasts through May 11.
FAMILY SPECIAL-NEEDS SUMMER CAMP Prairie Star Ranch 1124 California Rd., Williamsburg June 29 - July 1
A summer camp for families who have a child (or children) with special needs will be held. For information about the camp, go online to: www.archkck.org/specialneeds for details or call Tom Racunas, lead consultant for the special-needs ministry, at (913) 647-3054 or send an email to: tracunas@archkck.org.
SAINT THOMAS AQUINAS’ GRADE SCHOOL SUMMER CAMPS St. Thomas Aquinas High School 11411 Pflumm Rd., Overland Park June and July
There will be a variety of summer camps for students entering grades K - 8 to explore and discover their potential in both sports and other activities. Information about the camps and registration forms are available on the website at: www.stasaints.net/summer camps. If you have questions, call the athletic office at (913) 319-2416 or send an email to: btriggs@stasaints.net.
STRAWBERRY HILL MUSEUM AUCTION St. John Parish (auditorium) 420 Barnett Ave., Kansas City, Kansas May 25 from 6 - 9 p.m.
Tickets are available online only at: www. strawberryhillmuseum.org for a cost of $35 each. The ticket, also your receipt, includes appetizers and drink.
RESPITE CARE PROGRAM Holy Cross School 8101 W. 95th St., Overland Park May 26 from 4 - 8 p.m.
Respite care provides the gift of time away from caregiving for families with a loved one five years of age or older. For more information about the program, call Tom at (913) 647-3054 or send an email to: tracunas@ archkck.org; or Audrey Amor at (816) 7391197 or send an email to: aamor@sjakeep ingfaith.org. To register a loved one for the program go online to: www.archkck.org/ specialneeds and complete the online form.
ST. VINCENT DE PAUL CHURCH SOCIAL Onaga Fairgrounds 209 E. 9th St., Onaga June 3 at 11 a.m.
Chicken and pork dinners will be served from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. The cost is: $10 for adults; $7 for kids ages 5 - 12; and $3 for kids under the age of 5. There will be games and a bounce house for young kids. Bingo and other games will be held until 3 p.m. There will be a kickball game at 8 p.m. There will also be a silent auction. For more information, call (785) 458-9140.
RETROUVAILLE Savior Pastoral Center 12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kansas June 8 - 10
Retrouvaille provides help for dealing with marriage problems/difficulties/crises. The program offers hope that it is not too late for a better marriage. For more information, contact the registration team at (800) 470-2230 or visit the website at: HelpOurMarriage.com.
SURFING WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT Holy Trinity School (gym) 13600 W. 92nd St., Lenexa June 11 - 15 from 9 a.m. - noon
The cost for vacation Bible school is $25 per child. A discount of $5 per child will be applied when two or more children attend from the same family. Each child needs to have their own form completed. Online registration is available through May 11 at: htlenexa.org. Click on the “Christian Formation” tab, then “Vacation Bible School.” For more information, call Jill Thorne at (913) 220-9502 or send an email to: drjillthorne@hotmail.com.
LEGATUS SUMMER SOCIAL Bishop Miege High School (St. Angela Merici Chapel, west entrance) 5041 Reinhardt Dr., Roeland Park June 14 at 6 p.m.
The Legatus Kansas City Chapter invites qualifying Catholic CEOs, presidents or managing partners and theirs spouses to Mass at 6 p.m. There will be a reception and dinner following Mass at Mission Hills County Club, 5400 Mission Dr., Mission Hills. Monsignor Stuart Swetland will be the guest speaker. If you are interested in membership in Legatus and would like to explore a monthly meeting, RSVP by June 7 to: KansasCity@Legatus.org or call Nelson Newcomer at (816) 564-2658.
TOTUS TUUS FOR PEOPLE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS Queen of the Holy Rosary 7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park July 23 - 27 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
The Totus Tuus teams will offer an adapted Totus Tuus program for people with special needs. This program is designed for persons ages 6 to adult with intellectual or developmental disabilities. The registration deadline is July 2. For information on how to register or volunteer, go to the website at: www.archkck. org/specialneeds; call Tom Racunas at (913) 647-3059; or send an email to: tracunas@ archkck.org.
PILGRIMAGE Sanctuary of Hope Retreat Center 2601 Ridge Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Aug. 10 - 12
Father Joseph Arsenault, SSA, will lead a pilgrimage to the Marian shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Lacrosse, Wisconsin. Participants will leave from the Sanctuary of Hope Retreat Center. Pilgrimages to holy places help us on the most important pilgrimage of all: our journey through our human life on earth to our eternal destination with God in heaven. For more information, call Julie at (913) 321-4673; send an email to: julie@sanctuaryofhope.org; or go to the website at: www.sanctuaryofhope. org.
AUDIO ACCESS TO THE LEAVEN
The Leaven is available through the University of Kansas Audio-Reader Service for those who are blind, have low vision or are otherwise print disabled (nonreader, dyslexic). For information on how to receive this service, contact the audio-reader general office at (785) 864-4600 or the archdiocesan special-needs ministry at (913) 6473054 or send an email tracunas@arch kck.org.
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>> Continued from page 12 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 Medication management - DID YOU KNOW taking the wrong medication is the leading reason for falls and nursing home moves? We can help. Our RN will do a biweekly patient health check, fill the pill boxes properly, review your medication list and contact doctors if needed. Get peace of mind! Call Home Meds at (913) 627-9222 and learn about our medication solutions that allow you to continue to live safely at home. Just like family - Let us care for your loved ones in their homes. Two ladies with over 50 years’ combined experience. Looking for night shift coverage, some days. Great price, great references. Both experienced with hospice care. Call Kara at (913) 3431602 or Ophelia at (913) 570-7276. Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation for seniors in their home, assisted living or nursing facilities. We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Laurie, Pat or Gary.
FOR SALE Residential lifts - 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 - 3800-square-foot shop with 3-phase electricity, with or without equipment. 30 minutes from downtown Kansas City in Tonganoxie. Building: $230,000. Call Pat at (913) 689-9244. For sale - Located in Floral Hills Cemetery at 7000 Blue Ridge Blvd., KCMO. Four plots located in the Garden Of Prayer in section 11, lot 18, markers 24, 25, 26 and 27. Asking $2800 per lot. We are willing to negotiate pricing if you would want all four lots. Call Lilly at (816) 501-8053 or (918) 964-7079. For sale - Two internal side-by-side crypts in the Mausoleum at Resurrection Cemetery. Call (913) 631-4348 for pricing. For sale - Two cemetery plots in Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Kansas City, Kan., including headstones (need resurfacing). Section 4 Old, lot 204, spaces 10 and 11. $2500 each plus a $200 transfer fee to the cemetery. Call Randy at (904) 677-1027. For sale - Double mausoleum at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. St. John Corridor, tier A, crypt 6. Asking $10,000. Call Janet at (913) 522-0489. For sale - Double lawn crypt at Resurrection Cemetery in Lenexa, Garden of Hope section, double lawn crypt, lot 78 C, space 4. Conveyance fee included. $7500. Call Lou at (512) 294-2869. For sale – Double indoor Abbey in the newest building at Resurrection Cemetery, Lenexa. Blessed Mother Corridor, #24A. Selling for $9800, transfer fee included. Call Ross at (913) 707-7368.
WANTED TO BUY Will buy firearms and related accessories One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee.
REAL ESTATE I NEED HOUSES! - We are members of Holy Trinity Parish and we pay cash for any real estate without any realtor commissions or fees. If you would like an easy, no-hassle sale at a fair price, please call me. We have 13 years of experience. Mark Edmondson (913) 980-4905.
Whole Estates Need to sell a home and everything in it? We buy it all at once in as-is condition. Call (816) 444-1950 or send an email to: www.wholeestates.com.
VACATION Branson condo - Newly updated. Perfect for couples or families. Sleeps six; fully furnished; WiFi; no stairs; close to entertainment; pools; exercise room, tennis and golf available. Call (913) 515-3044.
MAY 11, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
COMMENTARY
Let’s face it: We’re all stuffed
SEVENTH WEEK OF EASTER May 13 THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD Acts 1: 1-11 Ps 47: 2-3, 6-9 Eph 1: 17-23 Mk 16: 15-20 May 14 MATTHIAS, APOSTLE Acts 1: 15-17, 20-26 Ps 113: 1-8 Jn 15: 9-17 May 15 Isidore Acts 20: 17-27 Ps 68: 10-11, 20-21 Jn 17: 1-11a May 16 Wednesday Acts 20: 28-38 Ps 68: 29-30, 33-36b Jn 17: 11b-19 May 17 Thursday Acts 22: 30; 23: 6-11 Ps 16: 1-2a, 5, 7-11 Jn 17: 20-26 May 18 John I, pope, martyr Acts 25: 13b-21 Ps 103: 1-2, 11-12, 19-20b Jn 21: 15-19 May 19 Saturday Acts 28: 16-20, 30-31 Ps 11: 4-5, 7 Jn 21: 20-25
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O
ver the past few weeks, I’ve noticed a slew of signs advertising multifamily or citywide garage sales. Maybe it’s the return of warm sunshine that’s energized us or maybe it’s just that the spring cleaning bug has bitten, but there seems to be an urge to clear out and clean up, to take stock and see what’s really important. I draw inspiration from the following little story: In the last century, an American tourist paid a visit to the renowned Polish rabbi, Hofetz Chaim. He was amazed to see that the rabbi’s house was only a simple room, filled with books, a table and a bench. “Rabbi,” asked the man, “where is your furniture?” “Where is yours?” replied the rabbi. “Mine?” asked the puzzled American. “But I’m only a visitor here. I’m just passing through.” “So am I,” said the wise rabbi. “So am I.” (Found in “Stories and Parables for Preachers and Teachers,” by Paul J.
C
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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.
Wharton.) Those words ring especially true for people preparing to move. Several priest friends and parishioners are in just such a position. Possessions take on a different meaning when packing up is involved. What often seemed so essential becomes much less important. We have a tendency to travel lighter when wisdom takes hold and we acknowledge that we’re only passing through in our lives here on Earth. Questions begin to surface, as
well as a good sense of humor, when we wonder why we started that collection of bottle caps from around the country or held onto rocks collected from the various places we traveled to. We realize suddenly that it’s the memories that are most precious, not the physical knickknacks we’ve accumulated. Springtime moves me to take an honest look at my home. My goal is to practice that one-in, two-out rule. In other words, when a new item comes in, I bid goodbye to two old ones. Yeah, I’ve yet to implement that wise advice. In fact, as I’m typing this column, another box from Amazon just arrived! But I’m trying. Really.
Books are my main downfall. To stem the tide, I rediscovered a hidden beauty. Last week, I got a card to the Lawrence Public Library. What a sweet treat it is to get books that I’m interested in (but honestly don’t need to buy), bring them temporarily to Tonganoxie and then send them back “home.” Honestly, though, it’s not just physical things that need to be cleared. This story is a poignant reminder of that: There was once a lawyer who lived 500 miles away from her elderly father. They hadn’t seen one another in a number of months. The father called her and asked, “When are you going to visit?” The daughter launched into all of the demands on her time — from her court schedule, to meetings, to you name it — things that prevented her from visiting. Quietly, the father said, “I’ve been wondering about this for some time now. When I die, do you intend to come to my funeral?” The lawyer answered, “Dad! I can’t believe you’d ask that! Of course
I’d come to your funeral.” “Good,” said the dad. “Let’s make a deal then. Forget the funeral. I need you more now than I will then.” (Found in William J. Bausch’s “A World of Stories for Preachers and Teachers.”) Even more important than shedding physical items is our need to free up time for the things that truly matter. With summer soon to begin, where will our priorities be? Will there be time for nourishing our spiritual lives by practicing our faith? Will we carve out time to spend with relatives and friends who live far away? Will we set aside our technology long enough to enjoy a leisurely, uninterrupted meal or activity with our family? Will we devote time to learning something new by reading? Let’s use these couple of weeks before Memorial Day weekend to ponder what truly makes life worth living. And make summer plans to make those things happen. After all, there’s no denying that we’re all just passing through . . . ready or not!
Disciples’ failure leads Jesus to broaden mission
ontext is everything. Even though, in the Catholic Church throughout the world, we celebrate the feast of the Ascension this Sunday, our country also observes Mother’s Day at the same time. That puts a twist on everything that we say and do on that day. It also makes things very complicated for the priests celebrating Mass. The liturgy will have to take place in context of Mother’s Day. And context is everything. On Sunday, we hear the narrative from Mark’s Gospel describing Jesus’ ascension, Mk 16:15-20. It comes from that portion of the Gospel called “The Longer Ending.”
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.
To understand the Gospel reading, it is useful to look at the verses immediately preceding it, which
POPE FRANCIS
In an age when technology is ever-evolving, Catholic news organizations must be willing to adapt to effectively proclaim the Gospel to all, Pope Francis said. Speaking to directors and employees of Avvenire, the daily newspaper of the Italian bishops’ conference, the pope said that the use of new digital platforms not only requires
describe the first Easter Sunday. They form part of its context: “When [the disciples] heard that he (Jesus) was alive and had been seen by [Mary Magdalene], they did not believe. “After this he appeared in another form to two of them walking along their way to the country. They returned and told the others; but
they did not believe them either. “Later, as the eleven were at table, he appeared to them and rebuked them for their unbelief and hardness of heart because they had not believed those who saw him after he had been raised” (Mk 16:11-14). The Gospel text repeatedly stresses the fact that the disciples have failed to believe. It is in light of their unbelief that Jesus issues the commission to the disciples to spread the Gospel. As part of that commission, he tells them: “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved; whoever does not believe will be condemned.” This warning about unbelief sets a standard
significant technological updates but also a willingness to accept that “the attachment to the past may prove to be a dangerous temptation. Authentic servants of tradition are those who, while keeping memory alive, know how to discern the signs of the times and open new paths,” he said May 1. Marking the feast of St. Joseph the Worker and International Workers’ Day, which is a public holiday in Italy and many
for those who will hear the disciples’ message. It is a matter of life and death for them. At the same time, it poses a challenge to the disciples themselves, who have so recently let Jesus down by their unbelief in Jesus’ resurrection. Their unbelief forms part of the context for the Gospel reading. We, also, by means of the Gospel reading, hear the same challenge to believe. Even though Jesus has ascended into heaven and is no longer visibly present among us, we also are called to believe that he is risen from the dead and is alive and well. Once again, it is a matter of life and death, salvation or damnation. It has drastic consequences for us.
other countries, Pope Francis noted that Jesus’ foster father was a “man of silence,” which at first “may seem the opposite of a communicator.” But, he said, Catholic journalists and news organizations must realize that “only by shutting down the noise of the world and our own gossip will it be possible to listen, which remains the first condition of every communication.” — CNS
MAY 11, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
COMMENTARY
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Stay connected to the vine through the stewardship of your gifts
“A
sa branch cannot bear fruit on its own unless it remains on the vine, so neither can you unless you remain in me” (Jn 15:4). For the past 12 years, I have been fortunate enough to attend the International Catholic Stewardship Council’s annual conference, where I grow in my understanding of stewardship as I learn from the experiences, skills and proven successes of Catholic leaders from throughout the world. It’s one way I nurture my connection to the Vine. Stewardship is a way of life, a practical form of spirituality. It is a
I
was blindsided by the reading from John’s Gospel on the Fifth Sunday of Easter when Jesus says: “Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit, because without me you can do nothing.” The “without me you can do nothing” statement reminded me of my old way of thinking about heaven and hell. I used to say, “If I make it to purgatory, I’ll be happy”; basically, just enough to fulfill my “Catholic” obligation and handing on the faith to my family. A long time ago, someone told me, “Being happy with purgatory is like being the worst possible Catholic you can be without going to hell.”
SIMPLY STEWARDSHIP
LESLE KNOP Lesle Knop is the executive director of the archdiocesan office of stewardship and development. You can email her at: lknop@archkck.org.
response to the Lord’s call to discipleship. Christian stewards are grateful for all of God’s gifts, accountable for
their development and use, generous in sharing with others, and willing to give back to God with increase. In the pastoral letter on stewardship written several decades ago by our U.S. bishops, stewardship is described as a commitment that is expressed not in a single action, nor even a
number of actions over a period of time, but in an entire way of life. Jesus called us to “go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations.” To help us fulfill the Lord’s call, our local shepherd, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, applies the principle of subsidiarity to describe the relationship between our parishes and the archdiocese. He works to provide solutions that impact the entire archdiocese and to coordinate efforts to respectfully support the work of our parishes to help identify problems at their source. This past year, I have been working closely with the archbishop, our clergy and lay leaders to help develop a path toward solving a few serious, but achievable, goals in the
If you are interested in attending the annual International Catholic Stewardship Council conference, it will be held in Nashville, Tennessee, Oct. 28–31. Go online to: catholicstewardship.com for information. next few years. The archbishop recently announced to our presbyterate the goals of a major capital campaign for our local church — with 25 percent of every dollar raised coming back to parishes for local needs and opportunities. I am excited to be part of this historic campaign: “One Faith. One Family. One Future in Christ.” I believe that God makes all things possible, beyond what most of us can even begin to imagine. When faced with obstacles and challenges, stewards turn to God
first with hope and faith, putting their trust in the Holy Spirit, who provides the skills and talents to do the work we have been blessed to accomplish in life. Jesus proposed as the distinctive sign of his disciples the law of love and gift of self for others through his grace. He is the vine; we are the branches. My prayer for this campaign is that he will help us to open our hearts to a full appreciation of the abundance with which we have already been blessed.
Go off the grid this summer and connect face to face DO WHATEVER HE TELLS YOU
RICK CHEEK Rick Cheek is the associate consultant for the office of evangelization and Catholic formation of youth.
This helped me realize I really need to go beyond the bare minimum. With summer upon
us and schools letting out, soon you might be looking for opportunities to spend time with your children, both young and adult. While there’s plenty out there to do, what are you going to do to make sure they stay connected to their faith this summer and not get
sidetracked with things that are not important? We really need to go beyond the bare minimum. Take some vacation time away from your screens. I know for some of us that could be really difficult. We are so connected these days that we miss what’s going on around us. I see younger children with electronic devices because it’s easier to keep them occupied with technology than to connect with them on a personal level. Family Camp would also be a great way to “Explore Truth, Beauty and Goodness.” It is among the holiest things in the world for families to spend time
growing together. Camp Tekakwitha’s mission statement is to connect youth and families to Christ. There is no better way than to dive into teaching our young people how to love, pray, be faithful, stay positive and to practice “I’m third” in the everyday life of our church. Putting God first in our daily life is what he wants from us. If you have a child with special needs, there’s a camp this summer just for them. The youth office, in collaboration with the archdiocesan office for special needs will be hosting a three-day camp adventure that celebrates faith and unity. Here you have time to
eat, pray and do activities together. Parents will have time to build community with other parents as well. Activities will be adapted and/ or modified as needed to accommodate. Visit the website at: www. archkck.org/camp. If you have a teen preparing for high school or college, our Teens Encounter Christ program (www.sunflowertec. org) is a way for them to connect to their faith on a more personal level before entering high school or going off to college. As always, we want to help you connect and grow. If there’s anything you need, email us at: youth2@archkck.org or call (913) 284-1725.
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MAY 11, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
PILGRIMAGE OF PRAYER
French-based order honors early missionary
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Little Sisters of the Lamb bring forward the offertory gifts during an outdoor Mass concluding their pilgrimage to St. Rose Philippine Duchesne Memorial Park. LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD
By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org
M
OUND CITY — The Potawatomi Native Americans affectionately named St. Rose Philippine Duschense, Quah-kah-ka-num-ad, which means “Woman who prays always.” After hiking 24 miles to her shrine and memorial park in Mound City, many would give the same epithet to the Little Brothers and Sisters of the Community of the Lamb. The community hosted the pilgrimage for young adults, leading them on a two-day journey of singing, prayer, adoration and sharing the Gospel. The walk ended with Mass and dinner in the park that commemorates the site of the Sugar Creek Mission where exiled Potawatomi made their home in 1837, and where St. Rose ministered to them. St. Rose is known as the first female saint west of the Mississippi River. She was a member of the Society of the Sacred Heart. In 1841, Jesuit priests invited the society to a new mission with the Potawatomi tribe. Sister Rose Philippine joined the group and, although her advanced age prevented her from undertaking traditional ministry, she was observed by the tribe members to be praying constantly. Though she was only with them for a year, the Potawatomi never forgot her. When the Community of the Lamb was invited to establish their order in the archdiocese 10 years ago, a Jesuit friend of the group, Father Joseph Carola, suggested they pray to St. Rose. Like them, she journeyed from France and came to this area to share God’s love with the poor. The community developed a great devotion to the saint and, in her honor, takes this yearly pilgrimage, inviting young adults to join them. When the pilgrims reached the park on Sunday, Little Brother Joachim gave a talk about St. Rose, emphasizing the perseverance of her faith through many misfortunes. “Ask the grace to be faithful to the Lord, especially when it is difficult,” he said. Beneath crosses inscribed with the names of more than 600 Catholic Potawatomi buried at the site, Little Brother Christophe celebrated Mass with Father Barry Clayton, pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Mound City. “It is a great joy to be present today with all those who have done the walk — and their supporters who didn’t . . . but get the reward,” said Little Brother Christophe. . Indeed, many friends of the Community of the Lamb joined the pilgrims for Mass and dinner.
Led by a participant carrying the flag of the Community of the Lamb, pilgrims walked into the St. Rose Philippine Duchesne Memorial Park after hiking 24 miles in the footsteps of the Pottawatomi Tribe ministered to by the saint in 1841.
In his homily, Little Brother Christophe emphasized the Gospel message of God’s love. “I can do nothing by myself,” he said. “If God does not look at me with his love, I just disappear into dust. “It is the love of God that upholds me in life.” He spoke to the hearts of the hungry and tired pilgrims when he told them only empty vessels can be filled with God’s grace. “The truth for us,” he said, “[is that] we are an empty glass and the more we are empty, then the more God can fill us. “God can’t fill my glass if it is already full of myself.” At the end of Mass, two young men, Jed and Jared, came forward to receive the crosses of the Community of the Lamb, becoming Young Adults of the Lamb. Other young adults were asked if they felt they might also be called to share in the mission of the community. Those who came forward were prayed over by the Community, and the words of Little Brother Christophe seemed to echo through that holy gesture. “St. Rose Philippine had moments that were truly failures,” he said during his homily. “But they were moments of purification, so the Lord could bear fruit in her life. “Fruit is not success; it is the true love we have toward one another.”
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD
On arrival at the park, Little Brother Joachim talked to the pilgrims about the history of St. Rose Philippine Duchesne and the strong faith that got her through many difficulties.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD
Little Sister Stephanie venerates a relic of St. Rose held by Father Barry Clayton, pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Mound City.