05-20-11 Vol. 32 No. 39

www.theleaven.com | Newspaper of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas | Vol. 32, No. 39 may 20, 2011

Corpus Christi

Here comes everybody

Stories by

Joe Bollig Artwork by

Dana Rausch

I

Turn to “procession’” on page 16

First Communicants welcome All first communicants of the archdiocese are invited to serve as escorts for the Blessed Sacrament in the Corpus Christi procession on June 26.

Parents should bring their children, dressed in their first Communion clothes, at 1:30 p.m. to Holy Trinity Church, Lenexa. They will be provided with flowers and will walk surrounding Archbishop Naumann with the Blessed Sacrament.

Le This su av is m e m Th n un the l er e L til as ea th t w Sc ve e f ee h n w all kly e ill . Th iss du be e n ue l on ex of e Ju t is Th ne su e 3. e o f

t’s what we would like to be, but often are not — buttoned down, neatly organized, running like clockwork.

Despite organizers’ best efforts, this year’s Corpus Christi procession — set for June 26 at Holy Trinity Parish, 9150 Pflumm Rd., Lenexa — will not present as pristine an image as our artist has rendered for us here.

Because, frankly, we Catholics are a motley crew. And when it comes to the Catholic Church, well, as James Joyce put it so famously, “here comes everybody.”

A real-life Corpus Christi procession, therefore, is just that — a procession of “everybody” — young and old, rich and poor, black, white, weak, strong — everybody drawn to attest publicly to the real presence of Christ in the Blessed Sacrament.

“We don’t always, as Catholics, see e ye - t o - e ye on all sorts of matters,” said archdiocesan liturgy consultant Michael Podrebarac.

“But when it comes to the essentials of our faith, there is unity.”

“Catholics of all different ages, cultures and points of view on discretionary matters can come together,” he continued, “and not only witness [to], but be a part of the essential unity of the faith in an outward and visible way by participating in the Corpus Christi procession.”

As has been the tradition since 2007, the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph will observe the solemnity of Corpus Christi in a joint procession. This year’s procession will start from and wind up at Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa.

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann and Bishop Robert W. Finn of the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph are leading the procession to demonstrate the reality of

2 archbishop

THE LEAVEN • may 20, 2011

THE LEAVEN • may 20, 2011

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS

A

Despite scandal, good men still answer his call

rchbishop Timothy Dolan of New York, currently the president of U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, posted the following article to his blog on March 18.

helpless in state supervised homes, with reported abusers simply transferred to another home, I would have mentioned ************** that, too.)

To that, he said nothing, so I went in It was only the third time it had for a further charge. happened to me in my nearly thirty-five “Pardon me for being so blunt, but happy years as a priest, all three times you sure were with me, so, let me ask: over the last nine-and-a-half years.

When you look at yourself in a mirror, Other priests tell me it has happened do you see a sex abuser?” to them a lot more.

Now he was as takThree is enough. en aback as I had been Each time has left me ‘The Shepherd’s Voice’ two minutes before. so shaken I was near “What the hell are you programming notes nausea. talking about?”

It happened last Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann’s “Sadly,” I anFriday . . . radio program on KEXS 1090 AM swered, “studies tell airs at 10 a.m. on Sunday and is I had just arrived us that most children repeated at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday at the Denver Airport, sexually abused are and 3:30 p.m. on Thursday. there to speak at victims of their own their popular annual fathers or other family “Living Our Catholic members.”

Faith” conference.

Enough of the debate, I concluded, As I was waiting with the others for as I saw him dazed. So I tried to calm it the electronic train to take me to the terdown. minal, a man, maybe in his mid-forties, “So, I tell you what: When I look waiting as well, came closer to me. at you, I won’t see a sex abuser, and I “Are you a Catholic priest?” he kindly would appreciate the same considerasked. ation from you.”

“Sure am. Nice to meet you,” says I, The train had arrived at baggage as I offered my hand. claim, and we both exited together.

He ignored it. “I was raised a Catho“Well then, why do we only hear this lic,” he replied, almost always a hint of garbage about you priests,” he inquired, a cut to come, but I was not prepared as he got a bit more pensive. for the razor sharpness of the stiletto, “We priests wonder the same thing. as he went on, “and now, as a father I’ve got a few reasons if you’re interof two boys, I can’t look at you or any ested.” other priest without thinking of a sexual He nodded his head as we slowly abuser.” walked to the carousel.

What to respond? Yell at him? Cuss “For one,” I continued, “we priests him out? Apologize? Deck him? Express deserve the more intense scrutiny, understanding? I must admit all such because people trust us more as we reactions came to mind as I staggered dare claim to represent God, so, when with shame and anger from the damone of us do it — even if only a tiny age of the wound he had inflicted with minority of us ever have — it is more those stinging words. disgusting.

“Well,” I recovered enough to re“Two, I’m afraid there are many out mark, “I’m sure sorry you feel that way. there who have no love for the Church, But, let me ask you, do you automatiand are itching to ruin us. This is the cally presume a sexual abuser when you issue they love to endlessly scourge us see a rabbi or Protestant minister?” with.

“Not at all,” he came back through “And, three, I hate to say it,” as I gritted teeth as we both boarded the wrapped it up, “there’s a lot of money train. to be made in suing the Catholic “How about when you see a coach, or Church, while it’s hardly worth suing a Boy Scout leader, or a foster parent, or any of the other groups I mentioned a counsellor, or physician?” I continbefore.” ued.

We both by then had our luggage, “Of course not!” he came back. and headed for the door. He then put “What’s all that got to do with it?” his hand out, the hand he had not ex“A lot,” I stayed with him, “because tended five minutes earlier when I had each of those professions have as high a put mine out to him. We shook. percentage of sexual abuse, if not even “Thanks.

Glad I met you.” higher, than that of priests.”

He halted a minute.

“You know, I “Well, that may be,” he retorted. think of the great priests I knew when “But the Church is the only group that I was a kid.

And now, because I work knew it was going on, did nothing about in IT at Regis University, I know some it, and kept transferring the perverts devoted Jesuits.

Shouldn’t judge all you around.” guys because of the horrible sins of a “You obviously never heard the stats few.” on public school teachers,” I observed.

“Thanks!” I smiled.

“In my hometown of New York City I guess things were patched up, bealone, experts say the rate of sexual cause, as he walked away, he added, “At abuse among public school teachers is least I owe you a joke: What happens ten times higher than that of priests, when you can’t pay your exorcist?” and these abusers just get transferred “Got me,” I answered. around.” (Had I known at that time the “You get ‘re-possessed’!” news in last Sunday’s New York Times We both laughed and separated. about the high rate of abuse of the most

Archbishop Naumann’s weekly calendar

May 19-20 Kansas Catholic Conference meeting — Topeka May 20 Meeting with Bishop Gregory Kpieboya from Ghana Vespers and dinner for diaconate candidate, Oswaldo Sandoval — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kan. May 21 Diaconate ordination of Oswaldo Sandoval — Cathedral of St. Peter

May 28 Priestly ordinations of Nick Blaha, Barry Clayton and Michael Peterson — Holy Trinity Church, Lenexa May 29 Baptism — Church of the Nativity May 31 Administrative Team meeting ‘The Shepherd’s Voice’ recording Bishop Ward board meeting — chancery June 1 Hayden High School board meeting

May 24 Vocation meeting

June 2 Mass and welcome at Continuing Legal Education, sponsored by Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas

Meeting with leadership of Conception Seminary — Conception, Mo.

Confirmation — Our Lady of Guadalupe, Topeka

Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas board meeting

June 3 Vespers, Mass and dinner — Apostles of the Interior Life Sisters

May 25 Presbyteral Council meeting Dinner hosted by Wyandotte County Knights of Columbus for priests and deacons at St. Patrick, Kansas City, Kan. May 26 Case Review Task Force meeting Vespers, Holy Hour and dinner at residence for those to be ordained priests May 27 Presenter, Mass and lunch at Spiritual Mentorship Program, conducted by the Apostles of the Interior Life Vespers and Benediction for those to be ordained — Holy Trinity, Lenexa

Notwithstanding the happy ending, I was still trembling . . . and almost felt like I needed an exorcism to expel my shattered soul, as I had to confront again the horror this whole mess has been to victims and their families, our Catholic people like the man I had just met . . . and to us priests. ************** The clerical sexual abuse of minors has been one of the most painful chapters in the life of the Catholic Church in the United States. As much as I would like the clerical sexual abuse of minors scandal to recede from the American public consciousness, it is important that we never forget this painful chapter of our church’s history.

Why? Because we must do everything humanly possible to make certain that it never happens again.

If anyone has been the victim of sexual abuse by a representative of the church, I encourage you to contact the archdiocesan Victims Assistance coordinator (Dr. Dennis Schemmel, at (913) 909-2740) or our Safe Environment coordinator (Father John Riley, at (913) 647-0324). I assure you that your concerns will be received with respect and taken seriously.

I have never had an encounter like the one recounted by Archbishop Dolan, but I know several priests who have

Archbishop Keleher’s weekly calendar

May 21 Diaconate ordination of Oswaldo Sandoval — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kan. May 28 Priestly ordinations of Nick Blaha, Barry Clayton and Michael Peterson — Holy Trinity Church, Lenexa May 29 Prison Mass May 30-31 Bishops’ prayer group — Portland, Ore. had similar experiences. In a week, God willing, I will ordain three men to the priesthood: Nicholas Blaha, Barry Clayton, and Michael Peterson.

The selection and formation of future priests are among the most important responsibilities of a bishop. Arguably, there is nothing that I do as archbishop that will have a longer or more powerful impact on the life of the Archdiocese than the ordination of priests. Holy, zealous and dedicated priests are the catalyst for vibrant parishes.

Please pray for all priests that we might strive to be shepherds after the heart of Jesus Christ. Pray that we have the courage and generosity to lay down our lives in love for the good of the people we are privileged to serve.

Despite the tragedy of the clerical sexual abuse crisis, we have a group of extraordinary seminarians preparing to serve the people of the Archdiocese as priests. Please pray for priestly vocations. Pray for our seminarians that they may discern God’s will for them and have the courage to embrace it. Pray for our priests that they not grow weary or discouraged despite the challenges of their ministry.

Archbishop Dolan’s blog is reprinted by permission of the media office of the Archdiocese of New York. “The Gospel In The Digital Age” is Archbishop Dolan’s blog.

SECOND FRONT PAGE 3

Perfect Times Three

Aquinas students get perfect scores on ACT, SAT exams

By Jill Ragar Esfeld Special to The Leaven

overland park — Very few high schools ever have a single student with a perfect score on a college entrance exam.

This year, St. Thomas Aquinas in Overland Park can proudly claim its first perfect scoring student.

And its second.

And its third.

Senior David Gier, from Church of the Ascension Parish in Overland Park, and junior Jeffery Kraus, from Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa, each scored a 36 on the ACT — putting them among only one-tenth of one percent of the 1.6 million high school students who take the test.

And senior Molly Porter from Church of the Nativity Parish in Leawood, scored a 2400 on her SAT — a one-in-5,000 chance.

“Very, very few students score perfectly,” said president Bill Ford.

“These are driven, bright students.”

Driven indeed. And fortunate enough to land in a school system that nurtures such a mindset.

“The grace of God put him in this area with the schools he went to,” said Jeffery’s mother, Mary Kraus.

“And he had some incredible teachers along the way.”

Ford agreed.

“You don’t get that far without the work of the faculty,” he said. “They’re the ones that have them every day in the classroom and work with them and provide the knowledge and the skill set that allows them to do this.”

When Jeffrey took the ACT the first time, he knew it wasn’t perfect, because he hadn’t completed every problem. He scored a 34, but was already signed up to try again.

“Coming out of the 34 one, I knew I could do better,” he said.

In the month before his second test, Jeffrey spent two hours each weekend studying an ACT prep book and taking practice tests on his own.

On his second try, he finished everything.

“I wasn’t exactly surprised at the 36 as much as just really happy the effort paid off,” he said.

His mother wasn’t surprised either.

“He was pretty determined he would get a 36,” she said. “And that’s kind of the way Jeff is. If he’s determined to do something, he’s going to do it.”

David was determined as well.

He had taken the ACT twice, scoring a 35 each time. He hoped the third time would be a charm.

“I knew I did really well on the reading and English sections,” he recalled. “But I wasn’t sure about the

Leaven photo by Jill Ragar Esfeld

Aquinas junior Jeffery Kraus (left) and seniors Molly Porter and David Gier aced their college entrance exams, getting perfect scores. math, and I had no idea about the science.”

David was on the road to a tennis tournament when his score came in the mail. He asked his mother, Cindy Gier, to open it, and she gave him the good news.

“He was texting and calling,” she said. “We were really excited!”

Molly wasn’t even thinking of a perfect score when she took the SAT. She was just verifying her PSAT score for National Merit.

“That’s the only reason I took it,” she explained. “To become a National Merit finalist, you have to have a certain score on the SAT.” Molly prepared by looking over a PSAT prep book she already had.

“It was June, so I had some time to study for it,” she said. “Afterwards, I was like, ‘I think I did pretty well.’”

“Pretty well” is an understatement, but it’s no surprise Molly would couch her achievement in those words. Like David and Jeffery, she is unaffected by the success, shy about the praise and quick to give

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)

Editor Reverend Mark Goldasich, stl frmark@theleaven.com

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe@theleaven.com

President Most Reverend Joseph F. Naumann

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita@theleaven.com

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd@theleaven.com

credit to her parents, teachers and school.

“All my teachers and my parents have been so great in encouraging me to learn,” she said.

“These are well-rounded individuals who have a lot of things going besides being very, very bright,” said Ford. “And really, they’re all very nice kids. They’re just good people.”

All three students enjoy academics, love to read and have full schedules of extracurricular activities.

David and Molly just returned from Washington, D.C., where they represented their school in We the People program; both compete in Scholars’ Bowl.

But they also both play varsity tennis, David runs cross-country, and Molly participates in the St. Thomas Aquinas musicals and choirs. Jeffrey plays football and lacrosse for Aquinas, CYO basketball and is in a summer baseball league.

Ford is proud of the students and pleased to see recognition for the Catholic school system and its efforts

Advertising Representative Jennifer Siebes jennifer@theleaven.com

to provide the best education.

“We have to be academically excellent because parents expect that from us,” he said.

“The Catholic schools have been an excellent education in all aspects, including the development of behavior, morality and ethics,” said David’s mother.

Molly’s mother, Mary Ann Porter, is a teacher in the Shawnee Mission School District. The decision to send her children to Catholic schools wasn’t easy.

“I think we have a great public school system,” she said. “But I just felt like the Catholic school system could help me raise my child to be a better Catholic and a better person.”

She doesn’t regret the decision, and neither does her daughter.

“It’s a very encouraging environment, a very cohesive learning environment,” said Molly.

Ford is glad to hear the praise and said many factors figure into being a top-notch Catholic high school.

“I think, ultimately, our goal is to help them build a relationship with Christ,” he said. “And hopefully, through that, they’ll have a love for the church.

“Secondly, we want to have them skilled enough to make a difference in society. They’re not experts at anything yet, but they will be up the line, and hopefully we’ve laid a foundation to build on academically.”

As they look forward to the future, these bright students have some big plans.

David is headed to the University of Kansas in the fall.

“Right now, I’m down as a physics and engineering physics double major,” he said. “But I may change one of those to psychology or philosophy.”

Molly will be attending the University of Notre Dame, but is having a hard time deciding on a field of study, because she loves so many subjects.

“I’m thinking of being a college professor in math or literature,” she said. “Hopefully, I’ll find myself in college. I also love music, and I’m thinking of being a music major.”

With another year left in high school, Jeffery is still looking at colleges, but knows he has an interest in computer engineering.

Like his fellow perfect scorers, he is grateful for his Catholic education and the lessons it’s taught him beyond academics.

“I’m thankful I’ve always had a chance to go to Catholic schools,” he said. “I don’t know if it’s helped me become a better academic student, but I’m sure it’s helped me become a better person, a more rounded student.

“And that can be more important than the grades.”

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.

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4 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • May 20, 2011

Barry Clayton Through a lens darkly D

By Joe Bollig Leaven staff

iscerning a vocation is a lot like looking through a camera lens. You can tell at a glance that something is definitely out there, but clarity is only achieved when the lens is gradually brought into focus.

Such was the case, anyway, for the priestly vocation of Barry Robert Clayton.

“The first time I thought about it was when my pastor, Father Bob Hasenkamp, during my first year of high school, invited me to a discernment Meet retreat,” said Clayton. a new The invitation priest came as a surprise, but the teen decided to accept anyway. He enjoyed the retreat, but certainly didn’t leave thinking the priesthood was for him. Little did he know at the time that this was merely his first look through the lens. Focus was to come later.

Clayton grew up in Olathe and Roeland Park. For the majority of his childhood, his family belonged to St. Pius X Parish in Mission. He is one of three children born to Mark Clayton and Christine Riscoe. He has a twin sister, Angie, and a younger brother, Matthew.

Like many Catholic kids, Clayton attended his parish elementary school, then went on to Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park. While there, the vocational lens continued to focus.

“Through high school, I had other discernment opportunities,” said Clayton.

“The chaplains encouraged me to discern my vocation — Father Bill Bruning and Father Brian Schieber. At the end of my time at Miege, I had begun to think more seriously about the priesthood.

But I still didn’t think I was ready.”

After graduating from Miege in 2000, Clayton entered Kansas State University to study electrical engineering, expecting to eventually get married and someday have family and a professional career.

But there, he got involved in Catholic campus ministry through the St. Isidore Catholic Student Center. Center chaplain Father Keith Weber gave the future priest both encouragement and support.

The final turning of the lens, however — the adjustment that brought his vocation into true focus — was a mission trip to Washington, D.C., where he worked with a student group in a food kitchen for the homeless.

“After three and a half years at KState, that call to the priesthood became stronger until I finally realized through prayer and discernment that God was leading me toward at least [the] seminary and learning more about the priesthood,” said Clayton.

Barry Clayton poses with a koala bear on an excursion during World Youth Day in 2008 in Sydney, Australia.

Despite being so close to finishing his degree, Clayton transferred to Conception Seminary in 2004. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts, specializing in math, in 2006.

“Although it was a difficult decision, I ended up going to seminary,” he said.

“Being in seminary is a tremendous blessing, whether one is called to a priestly vocation, or just having a chance to grow close to God to see where he is leading.

“In my discerning, God continued to strengthen my call, and I grew in my appreciation of the priesthood and in my gratitude for him calling me to it.”

From there, Clayton went on to study at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in St. Louis. He also did a pastoral intern-

Personally speaking

Age: 29 Last movie seen: “There Be Dragons” Favorite TV show: Royals baseball Favorite musical group/person: Matt Maher My most notable encounter with the famous/infamous: Pope Benedict XVI from a distance in Germany and Australia at World Youth Day and in New York on his papal visit to the United States The most inspirational Christian I’ve met: Those who faithfully go about their days serving God in the ordinary duties of their life Books now reading: “Verbum Domini”; “In Conversation with God” Favorite food: Pizza Favorite childhood toy: Bike

ship for a year at St. Joseph Parish in Wentzville, Mo. Clayton concluded his years of seminary with a master’s of arts in theology and an master’s of divinity.

His decision to follow a priestly vocation has been confirmed by others.

“Everyone has, generally, been supportive,” he said. “There are some, perhaps, who don’t know the faith very well or didn’t understand, but those of the Catholic faith have certainly been supportive of me. It’s an unusual path in this day and age.”

Clayton was ordained a deacon on May 22, 2010, at Holy Spirit Parish in Overland Park and will be ordained to the priesthood at 10:30 a.m. on May 28 at Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa.

Favorite place in the whole world: Rome or Kansas!

Dream vacation: Rome or Ireland or Florida Worst job I’ve ever had: Grocery store bagger Best job I’ve ever had: Grocery store cashier Hobbies/Things I like to do: Follow the Royals, run, read, listen to music If I were sent on a difficult missionary journey, the saint I’d take with me would be: St. Patrick If I had a church history time machine, I’d: go to the Middle Ages and then go all the way back to the time of the apostles with Jesus!

Best advice I’ve received: “Remain devoted to the Holy Trinity, keep the

The former engineering student believes he will bring to the priesthood the gifts of being a good listener and a love of the sacraments. He looks forward, especially, to celebrating the sacraments of reconciliation and the Eucharist.

Having gone through the process of discerning his own vocation leads him to offer some advice for those whose lens is still “fuzzy.”

“I would encourage them to try to get involved with faith activities and ministries that are available in your parish or the archdiocese,” he said, “because getting involved in these activities can help you grow in faith and build friendships in faith to support you in a more concerted way to what God might be calling you to do.”

Blessed Mother close, rely on God’s providence, and persevere.” (Msgr.

Griesedieck) Qualities I admire in priests I know: Being faithful and enjoying life My advice for someone seeking their vocation: Be open in prayer and discernment to what God might be leading you toward. Finding his will for you — and walking in this — is where you will find peace and happiness, though not without sacrifice. It is in the vocation to which God calls you that you can make a gift of yourself.

“Man truly finds himself through a sincere gift of self” (“Gaudium et Spes,” no. 24).

What I’m looking forward to as a priest: Celebrating the sacraments, especially the sacrament of penance, and, most especially, the sacrament of the holy Eucharist for God’s glory and the salvation of souls.

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THE LEAVEN • May 20, 2011

LOCAL NEWS 5

Mike Peterson Others saw it first

By Joe Bollig

E

Leaven staff

ven when it’s God on the line, it seems like someone else has to give you the message.

This was certainly the case with Michael Joseph Peterson.

Peterson was a licensed professional engineer, studying for a doctorate in engineering at the University of Kansas in the early 1990s, when his mother laid a bombshell on him.

“It was four months before she died,” said Peterson. “At Thanksgiving, she said, ‘Have you ever considered becoming a Meet priest?’ Right out a new of the blue. And I said, ‘Yes,’ but I priest dropped the issue.

I had other ideas.”

At the time, Peterson was a partner in a business and had completed all but his dissertation for his doctoral degree. Becoming a priest wasn’t on his list.

But God didn’t let up. He sent other people — a score of women from the Legion of Mary, and an usher at Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish in Overland Park — to convey to the young engineer the same message.

Finally, even he could see his vocation. So Peterson contacted the archdiocesan vocations director and, in 2007, entered Blessed John XXIII National Seminary in Weston, Mass.

Peterson was born in Concordia and raised in Clyde. His father Clayton was a plumber. His mother, Irene (Hiltgen), was a schoolteacher before she married. She and her husband had two boys and two girls; Michael was the “baby” of the family.

The family belonged to St. John the Baptist Church, and the children attended St. Ann School in Clyde from grades one through eight. His mother, the devout one of the family, was Catholic. Clayton Peterson was baptized a Presbyterian at age 13, but joined the Methodist Church when he was 93. He was always supportive, however, of his wife’s efforts to raise the children as Catholics.

Peterson graduated from Clyde Rural High School in 1971, and went to Cloud County Community College. He transferred from there to Kansas State University and earned a bachelor’s in 1975 and a master’s in 1977, both in civil engineering.

He entered professional life as a consultant for Burns and McDonald; he later went to work for a small manufacturer. Peterson then became a partner in the Ray Lindsey Company, which sells water treatment equipment.

It was while studying at KU, Peterson now believes, that a fire was lit under his faith.

Personally speaking

Deacon Mike Peterson assists during Mass at the Jesuit chapel on the campus of Boston College. He is a former licensed professional engineer and is one of three men to be ordained on May 28 at Holy Trinity Church in Lenexa.

“Probably [the turning point] was at KU, having to defend the Catholic Church,” he said. “When you’re at a secular university, you’re either called to defend or you’ve just got to bail out of your faith.”

He was challenged about Pope Pius XII’s actions during World War II, and by a Wiccan study mate, and more. He was forced to educate himself in the faith, rather than being a “one hour a week” Catholic.

What really got the ball rolling was a retreat for men considering a priestly vocation. The vocations director at the time was Father Brian Schieber.

“I met him [at prayer vigils] outside Planned Parenthood,” said Peterson.

“We used to pray the rosary there. And I always admired his dedication to prolife — the way he’d put himself out there.”

Discussions followed.

Father

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Schieber told Peterson that his age was not an issue. Finally, after settling his affairs, Peterson packed his bags for Blessed John XXIII National Seminary near Boston, which specializes in “late” vocations.

By no means has it been an easy road, even after he decided to go into the seminary.

“You have your doubts and anxieties, even at my age,” said Deacon Peterson.

“I was talking to my fellow fourth-year [students], and they said, ‘Do you have butterflies?’ and I said, ‘Yes, I do.’”

Nevertheless, the direction has always been forward, and his vocation has been confirmed by others.

“I’ve had many people say, ‘You’ll be a good priest,’” Deacon Peterson said.

He was ordained a deacon on May 22, 2010, at Holy Spirit Parish in Overland Park and will be ordained to the priesthood at 10:30 a.m. on May 28 at

Age: 58 Last movie seen: “The Great Escape” (on DVD) Favorite TV show: the History Channel Favorite musical group/person: Enya My most notable encounter with the famous/infamous: Pope Benedict XVI in New York (at 15 feet!)

The most inspirational Christian I’ve met: My mother and my Grandmother Catherine Books now reading: Just textbooks. I like to read philosophy and apologetics, and the works of G. K. Chesterton.

Favorite food: Steak and potatoes Least favorite food: Oysters Favorite childhood toy: Road grader and dump truck Favorite place in the whole world: My parents’ garden, or down by the Republican River Dream vacation: Tour of European cathedrals Worst job I’ve ever had: I didn’t mind any of them.

Best job I’ve ever had: Working with my dad or uncle, who was a farmer.

Hobbies/Things I like to do: Play golf and read (not at the same time) If I were sent on a difficult missionary journey, the saint I’d take with me would be: Pope John Paul II or St. Joseph If I had a church history time machine, I’d: go meet St. Thomas Aquinas.

Best advice I’ve received: Let the church decide if your vocation is true.

Qualities I admire in priests I know: Tenacity, energy and wisdom My advice for someone seeking their vocation: Prayer and more prayer, and let the church assist you in making the decision.

What I’m looking forward to as a priest: Administering the anointing of the sick and celebrating the Mass.

Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa.

In addition to his past professional experience, Peterson believes he brings to the priesthood an ability to deal with a broad array of personalities. He also wants to defend the church and its teachings.

“I hope I can [offer] some defense of the church when confronted,” he said.

“I think that I have that apologetic fervor still in me, even at my ‘senior citizen’ age,” he said.

6 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • may 20, 2011

Nick Blaha

THE LEAVEN • May 20, 2011

Vocation began on the road

S

Leaven staff

Deacon Nick Blaha, prays the Liturgy of the Hours at the Church of Dominus Flevit in Jerusalem, overlooking the Kidron valley and the Temple Mount.

Jewish graves crowd along the hillside, being the closest possible place to the Temple in which one can be buried according to Jewish law. He visited the Holy Land as part of a two-and-a-half month study pilgrimage offered by Mundelein Seminary, Chicago. ended their relationship, he realized he didn’t want to become a doctor after all.

“Around that time, I was thinking about the possibility of the priesthood,” he said. “I spent a lot of time reading Scripture before going to bed. I’d turn off the light and lie there, and meditate on the Scriptures. I felt God was calling me to something, but I didn’t know what.”

Through the young adult ministry he was involved with at his parish, Blaha became involved in the Fellowship of Catholic University Students in 2003.

He served as a FOCUS missionary for two years at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and one year at the

Personally speaking

University of Massachusetts at Amherst.

“That is where I discerned my vocation,” said Blaha. “I enjoyed seeing students committing to Christ and rejecting a wayward life.”

“And I was introduced to some sterling examples of diocesan priests,” he continued. “I became aware of their excellence, how happy they were as priests, and how much good they were doing. That’s what gave me the desire to become a diocesan priest.”

Blaha was ordained a deacon on May 22, 2010, at Holy Spirit Parish in Overland Park and will be ordained to the priesthood at 10:30 a.m. on May 28 at

Age: 31 Last movie seen: “There Be Dragons” Favorite TV show: “Arrested Development” Favorite musical group/person: Leo Kottke My most notable encounter with the famous/infamous: I drove the world-famous Anglican biblical scholar N.T. Wright and his wife to the airport.

The most inspirational Christian I’ve met: A priest in college ministry who boldly sowed consolation to a community grieving a suicide.

Books now reading: “The Betrothed,” by Allessandro Manzoni Favorite food: Fresh venison Least favorite food: Okra Favorite childhood toy: 50cc dirt bike at my grandparent’s farm in Missouri Favorite place in the whole world: The mountains of Southern California Dream vacation: A year off to sail around the Americas to Alaska, and offer Mass on the bow of a sailboat at sunrise.

By Joe Bollig Leaven staff

By Joe Bollig

ometimes it’s hard to say where a priestly vocation began. For John Nicholas Blaha, it might have been his mother’s “reconversion.”

When Blaha was in the third or fourth grade, his mother Barbara experienced a renewal of her Catholic faith. She began to explore different aspects of Catholicism, like charismatic prayer groups and the Latin Mass.

She also hungered to learn more about her faith, and this affected her family.

At the time, recalls Deacon Blaha, “My mom was driving back and forth Meet to visit her mother in Jefferson City, a new who was dying. priest “I remember my mother playing Scott Hahn conference [talks] on tapes in the car, and I just lapped that stuff up,” he said. “I was riveted all the time. I remember [Hahn] talked about covenant theology, and Christ’s crucifixion, and the fourth cup.

Those biblical explanations really got to me.”

Blaha was born in Kansas City, Mo., but raised in Overland Park. His father John currently sells heating and air conditioning controls. His mother was a public school Spanish and math teacher until he was born. He has one younger sister.

The family belonged to Holy Spirit Parish in Overland Park. His father was Lutheran, but became a Catholic when his son was in the third grade.

Blaha went to Holy Spirit School until the sixth grade, and then to Indian Hills Junior High. He transferred from there to Rockhurst High School in Kansas City, Mo., for two years, and then went through the Seton Home Study program. He earned a GED in 1998, because at the time home schooling was not accredited.

Next, he went to Thomas Aquinas College, a small, Catholic liberal arts institution near Santa Paula, Calif., from which he graduated with a bachelor’s in liberal arts in 2002.

“Right after college, I went on the Camino de Santiago [pilgrimage] in Spain,” said Deacon Blaha. “It was about 480 miles. I had some friends who did it and talked about it.” “ It was a very intense spiritual experience,” he continued. “I was by myself — and wanted to be by myself. I wanted a challenge and [to] learn things about myself and the world, and listen to God to see what I was supposed to do with my life.”

He came back with a lot of good ideas but no clear direction, so he began taking prerequisites for medical school.

About the time he and his girlfriend

Allen, Smith among notables at summer institute ATCHISON — What makes Catholic institutions really Catholic?

It’s a provocative question, especially in light of high-profile disputes between bishops and Catholic health care entities and providers.

The question of how to preserve Catholic identity in Catholic programs and Catholic health care institutions will be the focus of three conferences to be held from July 11 to 16 at Benedictine College in Atchison.

The registration deadline is June 30. Two keynote addresses, by Janet E. Smith and John L. Allen Jr., are free.

The conferences will be held during the Natural Family Planning Outreach’s National Summer Institute, which has as its theme and focus, “Catholic Healthcare Identity: Pastoral and Medical Strategies.”

The conferences will include keynote addresses by notable Catholics: • Robert P. George, professor of jurisprudence at Princeton University, and co-initiator of the Manhattan Declaration • Smith, professor of moral theology and chair of life ethics at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit

CNS photo/Bob Roller

John L. Allen Jr., Vatican analyst for CNN and National Public Radio and senior reporter for the National Catholic Reporter, will be one of the two keynote speakers at a conference on preserving Catholic identity, to be held at Benedictine College in Atchison.

• Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann • Jan Hemstad, M.D., president of the Catholic Medical Association • Allen, Vatican analyst for CNN and National Public Radio, and senior reporter for the National Catholic Reporter.

The first conference, “Virtues: Moral Development and TOB,” from July 11 to 12, is for Catholic educators

and marriage preparation leaders.

Smith will be the keynote. The tuition is $200. Attendance at the keynote is free.

The second conference, “Communicating God’s Plan: Marriage and Human Dignity, is on July 13. Allen will be the keynote speaker. His keynote is offered free, but attendees must register.

The third conference, “Bedside Manner and the Bedroom,” from July 15 to 16, is for medical professionals and health care administrators.

George, Hemstad, and doctors of the Catholic Medical Association will be the keynote speakers.

The tuition is $450, with discounts for CMA members. There are other discounts for nurses and those attending only one of the two days.

There will be limited free seating at the keynote for medical professionals who are unable to attend the conference.

The cost of each meal, buffet-style, is $10. Overnight accommodations start at $30, with private rooms and baths available for $50 (spouses free), and apartments (sleeps four) with a private kitchen and bath at $215.

For information, to register by the June 30 deadline, or to see full schedules for each conference, call (913) 360-7571, or go to the Web site at: www.benedictine.edu/nfpo.

Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa.

He is looking forward to all aspects of the priesthood, but he especially wants to minister to people through the sacrament of reconciliation.

“Cardinal Francis George [of Chicago] said the conversations that take place in the confessional are the most important conversations that take place on the planet,” said Deacon Blaha. “Even though I’ve never heard a confession, I’ve been to confession, and they’ve been the most important conversations in my life. To be a part of that is pretty amazing and humbling.”

Worst job I’ve ever had: Waiting tables at a steak house Best job I’ve ever had: Working at a summer camp in North Carolina before I entered the seminary in 2006 Hobbies/Things I like to do: Playing the banjo or piano, hunting, gardening, woodworking and photography If I were sent on a difficult missionary journey, the saint I’d take with me would be: St. Bernard of Clairvaux. He was considered one of the greatest preachers of his or any age.

If I had a church history time machine, I’d: witness the controversies of the Reformation and Counter-Reformation, especially the founding of the Jesuits.

Best advice I’ve received: Don’t try to hit it out of the park every time.

My advice for someone seeking their vocation: The coexistence of enthusiasm with gentleness, along with an awareness of the importance of priestly ministry and the desire for excellence.

What I’m looking forward to as a priest: Follow what gives you true freedom.

LOCAL NEWS 7 Sisters offer leadership camp Leavenworth — The annual Leadership Camp for sixth through eighth-grade girls is scheduled for June 20-22 on the campus of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth. The camp is co-hosted by the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica and the Sisters of Charity.

The purpose of the camp is to enhance the leadership skills of the participants; enrich their spiritual life; and give them the opportunity to learn more about their faith and how Catholic Christian values and leadership go together. Early registration is suggested, due to the fact that the camp fills up quickly. The registration deadline is May 25.

The registration fee of $145 includes room and board, meals and camp activities. For registration materials, send an e-mail to Sister Sharon Smith at: ssmith@ scls.org, or call (913) 758-6522.

LAWRENCE — Frank Depenbusch, a member of Troop 59 and St. John the Evangelist Parish here, has earned the rank of Eagle Scout.

For his project, he renovated the Eagle backyard a home Scout of purchased by his parish as a residence for visiting priests. Depenbusch’s workers cut out the overgrowth of vegetation, cleared piles of rubble, leveled the dirt and prepared the yard for spring planting. They also created a serenity area and added a bench.

800 SW Sixth Avenue | 785.354.7706 | www.brennanmathenafh.com

“By prearranging at today’s prices, you protect your family from undue expense and stress.”

Funeral home • crematory • Memorial chapels 10901 Johnson Drive Shawnee, Kansas 66203 Telephone 913-631-5566 Fax 913-631-2236 Gregg Amos

www.amosfamily.com

Back on Track

Over easy

Eighth-grader Anna Radetic of Holy Cross Parish in Overland Park glides over the bar in the high jump. Radetic took second place in the event, clearing 4 feet, 4 inches.

Strong finish

Fifth-grader Robyn MacDonald of Holy Spirit School in Overland Park sprints to a 3-minute, 5.19-second finish in the 800-meter run — good for first place.

The Catholic Youth Organization of Johnson and Wyandotte counties recently completed its 2011 track season. Leaven freelance photographer Elaina Cochran captured the highlights of the opening meet on April 9 at Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park.

winning kick

Third-grader Salvador Barr of Resurrection at the Cathedral School in Kansas City, Kan., sprints to a first-place finish in the 200 meters.

Raising the bar

Sixth-grader Nicholas Feverborn of Holy Spirit School in Overland Park soars to a tie for first place in the high jump. Feverborn cleared 3 feet, 10 inches.

Easy landing

Seventh-grader Lauren Dunn of Queen of the Holy Rosary School in Wea sticks the landing of her long jump. Dunn flew 12 feet 4 inches and finished third in the contest.

Let ’er rip

Eighth-grader Thomas Mains of Holy Trinity School in Lenexa rears back to heave the football in the shot put.

High flier

Eighth-grader Kaitlyn Gemmill from John Paul II School in Overland Park prepares for her landing in the long jump. Gemmill took fifth place in the event with a jump of 12 feet, 2.5 inches.

THE LEAVEN • may 20, 2011 Charles and Dee Anna Lichtenauer, members of St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on May 13. The anniversaries couple was married on May 13, 1961, at Redemptorist Parish in Kansas City, Mo. Their children and their spouses are: Annette and Dave Becker, Lenexa; Sister Vicki Lichtenauer, SCL, Kansas City, Kan.; Michael Lichtenauer, Pasadena, Calif.; and Eileen and Shaun Battles, Lenexa. They also have five grandchildren. They celebrated with a trip to Hawaii this spring and will celebrate with family later in May. Joyce and Thomas A. Soetaert, members of St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on May 27 at a dinner hosted by their children. The couple was married at Queen of the Holy Rosary Church, Overland Park, on May 27, 1961. Their children and their spouses are : Marty and Julie King, Ellis and Amy Rainey, and Tome Soetaert. They also have seven grandchildren.

Joe and Juliana (Lickteig) Mader, members of St. Boniface Parish, Scipio, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on May 29 with a Mass of thanksgiving and a family dinner. The couple was married on May 29, 1951, at St. Boniface. Their children and their spouses are: Ed (deceased) and Donna Mader, Margie and Robert Tastove, and Irene and Frank Tastove, all of Westphalia; Mary and Dale Milner, Ray Mader, Dan Mader, Nancy and Dave Hermreck, Bob and Krista Mader, Tina Mader and Amy Mader, all of Garnett; Greg Mader, and Carol and Milton Lutz, all of Richmond; David and Julie Mader, Nevada, Mo.; Ann and Rod Lutz, Ottawa; and Jan Fillmore, Emporia. They also have 36 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Cards may be sent to: 30814 N.W. Kiowa Rd., Garnett KS 66032.

Archie and Margaret Sutherland, members of St. Charles Parish, Troy, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on May 20. The couple was married on May 20, 1961, at Immaculate Conception Church in Rulo, Neb. Their children and their spouses are: Barry and Barb Greaser, Troy; Denise and Don Massey, Lewisburg, Tenn.; and Angie and Steve Adler, Smithville, Mo. They also have nine grandchildren.

Judy and Carl Moeller, members of Good Shepherd Parish, Shawnee, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on May 27. The couple was married at St. James Church in Kansas City, Mo. Their children and their spouses are: Tony and Sandra Moeller, Overland Park; Martin and Mary Kraus, Lenexa; C.J. and Cheryl Moeller, Springfield, Mo.; and Carl and Mary Moeller, Shawnee. They also have 10 grandchildren.

Anniversary policy

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

Announcements are due by 5 p.m. eight days (Thursday) before the desired publication date. Announcements must be typed. They are for parishioners of Catholic parishes in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, or for those who resided in the archdiocese for a significant period of time. Send notices to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, attn: anniversaries; or send an e-mail to: Todd@ theleaven.com. If you would like your photo returned to you, please include a self-addressed stamped envelope.

local news 11 Catholic cemeteries host Memorial Day Masses, May 30 KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Catholic cemeteries serving Wyandotte and Johnson counties will host Memorial Day Masses on May 30 at the following locations and times: • Mt. Calvary Cemetery, 38th and State Ave., Kansas City, Kan., 9 a.m.; celebrated by Father Mark Mertes; liturgical music by Ed Grisnik • Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 126th and Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kan., 10 a.m.; celebrated by Father John Riley • St. Joseph Cemetery, 61st Terr. and Quivira Road, Shawnee, 9 a.m.; celebrated by Father Scott Wallisch • Resurrection Cemetery, 83rd and Quivira Road, Lenexa; flagraising at 8:30 a.m.; Mass at 9 a.m., celebrated by Father Ken Kelly; liturgical music by Tom Jacobs • St. John Cemetery, Lenexa, 8 a.m. at Holy Trinity Church, 91st and Pflumm Road, Lenexa; celebrated by Father Tom Dolezal • Mt. Calvary Cemetery, 15825 S. 169 Highway, Olathe, 8 a.m.; celebrated by Father John Torrez For more information, call (913) 371-4040; send an e-mail to: inform ation@catholiccemeterieskc.org; or visit the Web site at: www.catholic cemeterieskc.org.

Concrete Work

Any type of repair and new work Driveways, Walks, Patios Member of Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish

Harvey M. Kascht (913) 262-1555

K E AT I N G Mud Jacking

Serving NE Kansas Since 1976

FOUNDATION REPAIR

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MUD JACKING

Raise & Level v Patios v Drives v Garage Floors v Slab Houses

Locally Owned & Operated Kansas City (913) 262-9352

Piers Driven to Load-Bearing Strata or Bedrock

Lawrence Topeka (785) 865-0006 (785) 246-0128

12 CLASSIFIEDS

THE LEAVEN • MAY 20, 2011

Employment

Services

Administrative associate/resource librarian – The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is accepting applications for an administrative position in the office of evangelization and Catholic formation of adults. Duties include supporting evangelization programs and events, creating publicity materials, and maintaining accurate records. This position also supports the archdiocesan resource library and media center by cataloguing and loaning catechetical materials, and managing the use of media equipment.

Ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic in good standing and have a minimum of two years administrative experience, preferably in a parish/catechetical setting. College degree is preferred. Knowledge of adult religious education, catechesis and parish ministry strongly preferred. A complete job description, application and benefits information are available on the archdiocese’s Web site at: www.archkck. org/employment. Interested individuals should mail cover letter, resume, and application by June 3 to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, Evangelization Search, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109 or send, via e-mail, to: kthomas@archkck.org.

Machine quilting by Lyn - I also do T-shirt, photo, and memorial quilts. Official Hobbs distributor.

Located in Overland Park. Call Lyn at (913) 492-8877.

Bishop Miege High School, Roeland Park - Is seeking applications for a mathematics teacher for the 2011 - 12 school year. Send letter and resume to: Mariann Jaksa, 5041 Reinhardt Dr., Shawnee Mission KS 66205 or send, via e-mail, to her at: mjaksa@ bishopmiege.com.

St. James Academy, Lenexa - Is seeking to hire for the following positions: math teacher and parttime vocal music teacher. St. James Academy is a Catholic high school with an enrollment of nearly 700 students in grades 9 - 12. Candidates should be faithfilled, practicing Catholics. If interested, complete the application available on the Web site at: www.sjakeepingfaith.org. If qualified to teach in the state of Kansas, you must also complete the archdiocesan application available at the Web site at: www.archkckcs.org.

Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of formal application, but may be submitted by May 30. For additional information, call Theresa Lyons at (913) 254-4200 or send an e-mail to: tlyons@sjakeepingfaith.org. Mail application material to: Mrs. Theresa Lyons, St. James Academy, 24505 Prairie Star Pkwy., Lenexa KS 66227.

Trinity Junior High, Fort Smith, Ark. - A 7ththrough 9th-grade school with over 25 years of academic excellence in Catholic education is seeking a principal. Candidate must be a practicing Catholic with a master’s degree in school administration or the equivalent certification. The applicant should possess proven leadership and strong human relation skills and an energy and passion for education.

Inquiries will be held confidential and should be sent

by June 15, via e-mail, to the search committee at: TJHSearchCommittee@gmail.com.

Liturgist - Good Shepherd Parish, Shawnee, has a full-time (30 hours per week) opening for a liturgist. Qualified applicants will be fully practicing/participating Catholics. Knowledge of the sacraments, Scripture, Catholic rituals, liturgical documents, and church law and tradition are necessary. Strong communication skills and Microsoft Office proficiency are essential. Experience of how a parish functions and the ability to work in a team-based environment also are primary. We offer a competitive salary and archdiocesan benefits. Send resume, via e-mail, to: slemons@goodshepherdshawnee.org.

Sales position - Inside sales position for Overland Park company. Base plus commission and benefits. E-mail resume to: info@overlandfreight.com.

Work from home - Telephone appointment setting for Medicare insurance agent. Typically from 3 - 6 p.m., Mon. - Fri. Must have unlimited calling plan.

Contact Bill, Senior Market Advisors of KC, at (913) 636-7686.

Financial representative - Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding financial representatives in the Kansas City area.

This position is ideal for a determined, high-energy, high-expectation, professional, self-disciplined, independent individual desiring to serve others, yet earn a better-than-average income. We provide top-rated financial products to our members and their families and will provide excellent benefits and training. For information or an interview, contact John A. Mahon, 307 Dakota, Holton KS 66436; or call (785) 364-5450.

Counseling - Topeka Marriage and family, child, teen, personal Shunga Creek Mental Health Call Ken Zweig, LSCSW at (785) 969-5308.

Bankruptcy - When debt becomes overwhelming, seek professional help. Experienced, compassionate Catholic attorney Teresa Kidd. For a confidential, no obligation consultation, call (913) 422-0610; or send an e-mail to: tkidd@kc.rr.com.

Job search help - Is your college grad having trouble landing their first job? We can help! Resume critiques, mock interviews, and more from a real-world hiring manager. For information, call (913) 850-3874; send an e-mail to: scain@standoutcareerservices.com; or visit the Web site at: www. standoutcareerservices.com.

Summer tutoring - Available for K - 12 and college level. Sessions are fun and meaningful in context. For information, call (913) 206-2151 or send an e-mail to: Klmamuric@yahoo.com.

Housecleaning - Charmaine will provide you with excellent service you can depend on. Years of experience in satisfying customers. Serving the Greater KC metro area. Call Charmaine at (913) 972-7900.

Husband and wife cleaning team - Reasonable rates; references provided. Call (913) 940-2959.

Housecleaning - Old-fashioned hand mopping and more. A thorough and consistent job every time.

References from customers I’ve served for over 17 years. I have a few openings. Call Sharon at (816) 3220006 (home) or (816) 214-0156 (mobile).

Semi-retired arborist - Available for tree and shrub trimming. Call Bob at (913) 231- 6460.

Foley’s Lawn Care Mowing, aeration & overseeding Landscape maintenance Spring & Fall cleanups, gutter cleaning Residential & commercial (913) 825-4353 Proudly serving Johnson County for 10+ years www.foleyslawncare.com Rodman Lawn Care - Mowing, leaf removal, mulch and more. Call John Rodman, member of Holy Cross Parish, Overland Park, at (913) 548-3002 or send an e-mail to him at: Rodman.Lawn@yahoo.com.

Tree service - Pruning trees for optimal growth and beauty and removal of hazardous limbs or problem trees. Free consultation and bid. Safe, insured, professional. Cristofer Estrada, Green Solutions of KC, (913) 378-5872. www.GreenSolutionsKC.com.

Lawn mowing and landscaping - Mowing starting at $25. Also offering power washing, dirt work, drainage solutions, tree trimming, mulching and all other landscape work. Call (816) 509-0224.

Housecleaning - Dependable and honest. Multiple professional references. Covering the KC Metro area. Call Sandy’s Cleaning Service at (913) 788-7676.

Caregiving Experienced CNA - Available to care for your loved one. Experience with dementia and Alzheimer’s patients. Excellent references; background check welcome. Full time, during the day preferred. Johnson and Wyandotte County areas. (913) 999-4340.

Caregiver – 41-yr-old caregiver available. Flexible hours; excellent references. Call Kara (913) 909-6659.

Looking for high quality home care? Whether you’re looking to introduce care for your family or simply looking to improve your current home care quality, we can help. Our unique approach to home care has earned us a 99% client satisfaction rating among the 1,000-plus families we have assisted. We are family-owned and based in Lenexa. Call Benefits of Home-Senior Care at (913) 422-1591 or visit our Web site at: www.benefitsofhome.com.

THE LEAVEN • MAY 20, 2011 Caregiver- CNA and home health aide with over 30 years experience has days/nights/weekends available, any hours, for elderly care. Excellent references; call Dorles at (913) 371-2970 or (816) 786-3227.

Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation to the elderly and disabled in home, assisted living and nursing facilities. We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Laurie, Sara or Gary.

Home Improvement Carpet direct – We cut out the middle man and bring the showroom to you! The best place to see your flooring is in your own home or office. Save 40 - 80% on carpet and hard surfaces. Residential and commercial. For a free estimate, call Amanda at (913) 742-4003.

Carpet, vinyl, wood, ceramic, marble, area rugs, vanity tops, window treatments - 50+ yrs. experience. A+ Better Business Bureau rating. Financing available. For an appointment, call Matt at (816) 876-6619. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Gardner.

Brick masons - Installation and repair of all types of masonry work — brick, stone, and concrete.

17 years of residential and commercial experience.

Small and large jobs accepted. KC Metro area. For a free quote, call Jim or John at (913) 485-4307.

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.

Father and son team looking for outside work - Painting, wood rot repair, decks, fences, retaining walls, concrete — you name it, we can do it all for a fair price! We do inside work as well. Call Josh at (913) 709-7230.

Adept Home Improvements Where quality still counts!

Basement finishing, Kitchens and baths, Electrical and plumbing, Licensed and insured.

(913) 599-7998

STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Free estimates. Call (913) 491-5837 or (913) 579-1835. E-mail: smokeycabin@ hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.

Master electrician - Licensed in Missouri and Kansas. 35 years experience in residential and commercial electrical needs. Call Rick, L & M Electric, at (913) 362-1501 or (816) 781-1501.

Donate a vehicle. Make a difference. Donate your vehicle to Catholic Charities to support those in need. Your tax-deductible donation of a vehicle helps children and families served by Catholic Charities and is an environmentally wise way to recycle your vehicle. Cars for KC Kids is a partnership between Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas and Catholic Charities of Kansas City - St. Joseph. Call 1 (866) 430-9499 or visit the Web site at: www.cars4kckids.com.

Electrician - Free estimates; reasonable rates.

JoCo and south KC metro. Call Pat at (913) 963-9896.

For Sale

Vacation Branson condo nightly rental - 2 king BRs, 2 BA; sleeps 6. Sun porch overlooks public golf course.

Walk-in level (no steps), flat screen TVs, DVD player, filtered water and fully equipped kitchen. Two blks. from the Hwy. 76 strip. Easy to get to shows, WalMart, groceries, dining. No smoking; no pets. Parishioners of Holy Cross, Overland Park. Call (913) 851-8886.

Colorado summer vacation - Winter Park. 2 BR, 1 BA, sleeps 6. Fully furnished, fireplace, rec. center w/pool, fishing, golf, hiking, rafting; close to nat’l park. $100/night; $600/week. Call Joe Frederick at (913) 385-5589.

Mountain cabin in Winter Park, Colo. - 2 BR, 1 BA. View of Continental Divide from deck. Close to points of interest and activities. $95/night. Call (913) 642-3027. For pictures, visit the Web site at: www.till mancabin.com.

For Rent Room for rent – Furnished bedroom/house to share with owner and mother. Good area in Kansas City, Kan. Prefer older or retired woman. One resident cat. Utilities and wireless Internet provided. Large yard, deck. $500/month. Call Michele at (913) 2877313.

Overland Park - Nice, 2 BR, 1-1/2 BA duplex with a one-car garage. Appliances and local pool/ amenities included. For an appointment to view, call (913) 383-1343.

Garage door and opener sales and service 24-hour, 7 day-a-week service on all types of doors.

Replace broken springs, cables, hinges, rollers, gate openers, entry and patio doors, and more. Over 32 years of experience. Call (913) 227-4902.

For rent – 1 BR, 1 BA apartment in Shawnee near Nieman Rd. and Johnson Dr. $520/month; utilities included. 10911 W. 59th Terr. For a virtual tour, visit the Web site at: www.shawnee-rentals.com. Call (913) 649-7596.

Custom countertops - Laminates installed within 5 days. Cambria, granite, and solid surface.

Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee.

Lenexa duplex - 3 BR, 1-1/2 BA, fireplace, hardwood floors, dine-in kitchen and deck. One-year lease. $825 per month. For an appointment, call (913) 768-6447.

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.

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!!

Call Lupe at (816) 252-3376 Clutter problems? Embarrassing garage, basement, attic or any room? Let me help you get organized! Items sorted, grouped, boxed and labeled; areas clean when finished. Great references and insured. Twenty years experience! Handyman repairs also available. To view “before” and “after” pictures, visit my Web site at: www.swalms.com. Tillar Swalm (913) 375-9115.

Clutter getting you down? Organize, fix, assemble, clean . . . we do it all! For a free consultation, call your professional organizing handyman, Kevin Hogan, M Ed, today at (913) 271-5055. Insured; references. Visit the Web site at: www.koatindustries.com.

(Continued from page 12)

Real Estate Kansas City, Kan. home - 315 N. 17 St. Large three-story brick home. 4+ BRs, 2 BA, two-car garage.

Newer HVAC and roof. $155,000. Cathedral of St. Peter Parish. Call John at (913) 302-1621.

Shawnee home - 14010 W. 74th St., in the Wedgewood subdivision. 4 BR, 3-1/2 BA, large kitchen and hearth room, formal living and dining rooms, large master suite with double closets, three-car garage. Located on a cul-de-sac in Good Shepherd Parish. Neighborhood pool. $364,000. Call John at (913) 302-1621.

Small ranch home - 5924 Barton, Shawnee.

3 BR, 1 BA. Two blocks from St. Joseph Church and School. $99,000. For an appointment to view, call (913) 962-5058.

Naples, Florida - Two, 2BR, 2BA condominiums.

One turn-key furnished. Two blocks to the beach and two blocks to 5th Ave. South – in the heart of old Naples. For information, call Andy at (239) 261-6233.

Misc.

Bishop Ward High School senior seeking summer job - Much experience in lawn mowing, trimming and weeding. Will do odd jobs. Call Brently at (913) 449-8268.

Raffle tickets - The youth group of Sacred Heart Parish, Emporia, is selling raffle tickets for a chance to win two tickets to “Symphony in the Flint Hills” on June 11. The suggested donation is $20 per chance.

To have your name entered, mail a check (payable to Sacred Heart youth group), along with your phone number, to the parish office at: 101 Cottonwood, Emporia KS 66801. The drawing will take place on June 1 and the winner will be notified the same day. For information, call (620) 342-1061.

Residential lifts - Buy/sell/trade. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. Recycled and new equipment. Member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood. Call Silver Cross KC at (913) 327-5557.

Childcare Summer nanny - KU student and Holy Trinity, Lenexa, parishioner is looking for a full-time nanny position in Johnson County. Majoring in education, loves kids and has years of babysitting/nannying experience. Will provide references upon request. Also, certified in first aid. Call Krista at (913) 620-5592.

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. ***WANTED*** I buy coins, older watches, silverware, slot machines, old rifles and shotguns, stoneware crocks and jugs, old furniture from basement or attic.

Call Chris at (913) 593-7507 or (913) 642-8269 Catholic Estate items wanted - Serious collector. Pictures, historic/rare pieces, paintings and statues. Call (913) 871-6444.

To purchase a classified ad:

Send an e-mail to: jennifer@theleaven. com, or call (913) 647-0327. The cost is $16 per column inch, five lines or less. Each additional line is $1.50. Classified ads will also be posted online at The Leaven’s Web site: www.theleaven.com, at no additional charge.

21

May

The St. John the Divine reunion committee will host a taco dinner fundraiser at Monchies, 1350 S. 26th St., Kansas City, Kan., from 11 a.m.

- 6 p.m. on May 21. The cost is $5. For information or to purchase tickets, call Vickie Loya at (913) 596-2078 or Chris Gonzalez at (913) 485-3229.

Father Tony Lickteig will celebrate the archdiocesan monthly pro-life Mass at 8 a.m. on May 21 at Sts. Cyril & Methodius Church, 44 N. Mill, Kansas City, Kan., followed by a rosary procession to an abortion clinic four blocks away. Eucharistic adoration is available for those not processing; Benediction concludes services at 9:45 a.m.

A memorial liturgy for deceased loved ones will be held at 8 a.m. on May 21 at Curé of Ars Church, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood. The bereavement ministry will have its monthly meeting following Mass in the Father Burak Room.

The topic will be: “How Loss Can Lead to Hope and Renewal.” For information, call (913) 649-2026.

Overland Park’s Overland Stage Chorus, a 55-year-old chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society of Nashville, will perform its annual show at 2 and 7 p.m. on May 21 in the auditorium at Bishop Miege High School, 5041 Reinhardt Dr., Roeland Park. There will be an afterglow following the 7 p.m. evening performance in the cafeteria. The cost is $15 per person. For information or to purchase tickets, call Gary at (913) 2364029.

22

The Daughters of Isabella, Little Flower Circle, No. 503, will host its mother/daughter covered dish luncheon at noon on May 22 in Rossiter Hall, 204 S.W. 8th, Topeka. A business meeting will follow.

23

The Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan., will offer a craft class from 1:30 - 2:30 p.m. on May 23. Participants will create a greeting card using pressed flowers and will leave with their finished product and with the knowledge to repeat the project on their own. Keeler will provide materials. Donations are welcome.

For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www. mountosb.org/kwc.

25

All priests, deacons, and seminarians are invited as guests at the Knights of Columbus annual priest appreciation night on May 25 at St. Patrick Parish, 1086 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kan. The evening will begin with vespers at 6 p.m., followed by dinner and fellowship. Knights of Columbus will be charged $25.

The Singles of Nativity (SON) will host a happy hour from 6 - 8 p.m. on May 25 at Blue Moose Bar & Grill, 9100 W. 135th St., Overland Park. For information about this or other events, visit the Web site at: www.SON-Ministry.org.

28 Sophia Center, 751 S. 8th St., Atchison, will host “They Say That Jesus

Was An Only Child: An Only Child Weekend Retreat,” presented by Sister Constance Krstolic, OSB, from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. on May 28. How does being an only

child affect one’s view of the world, oneself and others? The cost of the retreat is $50. For information or to register, call (913) 360-6151 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/sophia.html.

June

1-4

Holy Spirit Church, 11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park, will host a parish-wide garage sale from 8 a.m. 6 p.m. on June 1 - 3, and from 8 a.m.

- noon on June 4. Proceeds will benefit Habitat for Humanity, Santa Gertrudis Parish in Honduras, Alexandra’s House for terminally ill infants, and Uplift.

2

The Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan., will offer “Journaling for Personal Growth,” a personal enrichment class for women, from 2:30 - 3:30 p.m. on June 2 and on every first Thursday of the month.

No previous writing experience is necessary. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/kwc.

4

A child and babysitting safety training class will be offered from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. (bring a sack lunch) on June 4 at Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish, 3601 S.W. Stone, Topeka. Participants must register by May 27. For information or to register, call (816) 918-8159 or (785) 430-7095.

5

All former students of St. Mary School in Wien, Mo., are invited to a reunion on June 5, beginning at 10:30 a.m. Meat, drinks and table service will be provided for a carry-in dinner at noon. Spouses are welcome! For information, contact Genny (Bocke) Wright at (660) 226-5698 or send an e-mail to her at: grwright@cvalley.net.

St. Vincent de Paul Church, Onaga, will host a parish picnic on June 5 at the Onaga Community Center. A fried chicken and ham dinner will be served from 4 - 7 p.m. The cost is: $8 for adults; $5 for children ages 5 - 12; children 4 and under eat for free. There will also be bingo, raffles, homemade ice cream, children’s games and prizes.

The Good Shepherd Parish choir, Shawnee, will present “Songs of the Church Year,” a concert featuring a musical journey through the liturgical calendar, at 3:30 p.m. on June 5 in the Annunciation Chapel on the University of Saint Mary campus, 4100 S. 4th St., Leavenworth. This event is free, and all are invited. For information, contact John Rudzinski at (913) 563-5305.

6

Would you like to reach out and make a difference in someone’s life?

Wyandotte Pregnancy Clinic will host a volunteer information night from 7 - 8 p.m. on June 6. We have several open positions for volunteers. For information or to RSVP, call Nora or Tammy at (913) 287-8287 or send an e-mail to: volunteer@wpcnetwork.org.

Advice and Aid Pregnancy Centers, Inc., will offer an informational volunteer meeting from 7 - 9 p.m. on June 6 at 11031 W. 75th Terr., Shawnee.

For information, contact Mary Newcomer at (913) 962-0200 or send an e-mail to her at: volunteer@adviceandaid.com.

CALENDAR 13

7

The Atchison Region Serra Club will meet from 7 - 8:30 p.m. on June 7 in the ACES chapel. The evening will begin with Mass and special prayers for vocations. Sister Noreen Hurter, OSB, will be the speaker. All are invited and encouraged to attend. For information, call Tim or Susan at (913) 367-2227.

10

Sacred Heart Parish, Gardner, will host its annual golf tournament on June 10 at Sycamore Ridge Golf Course, Spring Hill. Registration begins at 11:30 a.m. The cost of $125 per player or $500 per foursome includes a boxed lunch. For information, send an e-mail to: Leland_Hicks@yahoo.com.

12

St. James Church, Wetmore, will host its annual parish picnic on June 12 in the parish hall. A roast beef and ham dinner will be served familystyle from 4:30 - 7 p.m. There will be games for all ages and a live auction at 8 p.m.

16

Prince of Peace Parish, 16000 W. 143rd St., Olathe, will host “God’s Passionate Call to Love, Marriage, and Family,” a three-part presentation by Father Andrew Strobl, from 7 - 9 p.m. on June 16, 30 and July 7. There is no cost to attend; free child care will be provided. For information or to RSVP for child care, contact Suzanne Goff at (913) 839-2135 or send an e-mail to her at: suzannegoff@hotmail.com.

18

All Saints Parish, 229 S. 8th St., Kansas City, Kan., will host its annual Josefesta social from noon - 10 p.m. on June 18. This wonderful family event is free and open to all! There will be a variety of Latin food, inflatables and mechanical rides for children, live music, entertainers, and more. For information, call the parish office at (913) 371-1837.

25

The Bishop Miege High School class of 1971 will host a 40year reunion at 7:30 p.m. on June 25 at Sutera’s Pizza, 22716 Midland Dr., Shawnee. For information, call Peggy (Baker) Galvin at (816) 579-8066.

Misc.

The Kansas City Catholic Homeschool Conference will be held on June 17 - 18 at St. James Academy, Lenexa.

Many local and national speakers will discuss a variety of topics. There will also be a teen track offered for 13- to 18-year-olds. For information or registration materials, visit the Web site at: www.kccatholichomeschooler.org.

Healing from pornography?

Monthly theology of the body groups and weekly recovery groups are available for men and women. For information, visit the Web site at: LoveIsFaithful.com, or call Sam Meier, MA, LPC, at (913) 647-0378.

Calendar items must be received nine days before the publication date. E-mail submissions are preferred; send to: jennifer@ theleaven.com. Submissions may be mailed to: 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109.

14 COMMENTARY

THE LEAVEN • may 20, 2011

THE LEAVEN • May 20, 2011

Mark my words

Catholic Press Association Award Winner 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010

fifth WEEK of easter May 22 fifth SUNDAY OF EASTER Acts 6 1-7; Ps 33: 1-2, 4-5, 18-19; 1 Pt 2: 4-9; Jn 14: 1-12 May 23 Monday Acts 14: 5-18; Ps 115: 1-5, 15-16; Jn 14: 21-26 May 24 Tuesday Acts 14: 19-28; Ps 145: 10-13ab, 21; Jn 14: 27-31a May 25 Bede the Venerable, priest, doctor; Gregory VII, pope; Mary Magdalene de’ Pazzi, virgin Acts 15: 1-6; Ps 122: 1-5; Jn 15: 1-8 May 26 Philip Neri, priest Acts 15: 7-21; Ps 96: 1-3, 10; Jn 15: 9-11 May 27 Augustine of Canterbury, bishop Acts 15: 22-31; Ps 57: 8-10, 12; Jn 15: 12-17 May 28 Saturday Acts 16: 1-10; Ps 100: 1-3, 5; Jn 15: 18-21

N

family matters

Isn’t it time you started living?

e plus ultra.

If you’re feeling stressed, burdened, in a rut or incredibly weary, then bow your head, beat your breast and mumble these three magic words over and over again: Ne plus ultra.

If Latin isn’t your thing, then head to the Book of Ecclesiastes, sigh deeply and read aloud: “All things are wearisome; more than one can express; the eye is not satisfied with seeing, or the ear filled with hearing. What has been is what will be, and what has been done is what will be done; there is nothing new under the sun” (1: 8-9).

I’m not sure if the “late” Easter is to blame or if it’s something else, but folks from priests to teachers to parents have all been saying: “You know, I think May is even worse than December anymore.” With first Communions, May crownings, graduations, Mother’s Day, weddings, receptions, and the last days of school — to name but a few — we’re all feeling way too busy; we’re meeting ourselves coming and going.

And we’re starting to ask ourselves (when we actually have the energy to do so): Is this really living?

Maybe we can draw some inspiration and insight from those three Latin words: Ne plus ultra. Apparently, back in the time of Christopher Columbus, these words comprised the Spanish royal motto. They mean: “There is no more beyond here.”

When Columbus was ready to set sail from Spain into the great unknown, people thought the world ended not far beyond Gibraltar. Venturing farther than that meant certain doom; you’d literally fall off the end of the earth.

Obviously, that didn’t deter Columbus.

Returning later from the New World, he opened up whole new horizons. This

made that royal motto totally meaningless. To her credit, Queen Isabella recognized this and came up with a quick fix: She simply eliminated the first word. Thus, the motto became “Plus ultra,” or “There is plenty more beyond.” (Adapted from “The Sower’s Seeds,” by Brian Cavanaugh, TOR.) So, which of the Spanish royal mottos reflects your life? In his resurrection, Jesus proved that death was not our final destiny, the end of the world. Therefore, as Christians, we are constantly called to believe and live in a way that witnesses to “the plenty more beyond.”

That’s easier said than done, though, right? Not necessarily. It’s actually not as complicated or time-consuming as we may think to bring some newness, some freshness, into our lives each day.

The problem is that we get so used to doing the “same old, same old,” that we plod through our days on automatic pilot. It doesn’t have to be this way.

In fact, it shouldn’t be this way. Two simple things may be all that’s needed to shake things up for the better in your life.

The first is to do a little list-making.

During this coming week, take out a piece of paper and divide it into several categories: Books to read; DVDs to rent; CDs to buy (or download); movies to see; restaurants to try; people to visit; and places to explore.

Next, start filling in the spaces under each category. If you’re drawing a blank in any of these areas, call up a friend and ask for suggestions. Then, beginning with Memorial Day weekend — and then at least once a week after that — do something on your list.

If you plead that you’re too busy to do this, take a deep breath and start even smaller. Work on your list, and lots of other things, for 10 minutes at a time. This is the second simple strategy.

I don’t know about you, but sometimes I’m reluctant to start something because I look at it as a whole and realize I don’t have a huge block of time to devote to it. What I fail to see are the little pockets of time that I waste. If you start using some of the “10-minute gaps” you have in your day, you’ll be amazed at what you get to.

On her Web site — giveme10.info — Laura Brady Saade proposes how to, for example, get through a 300-page book in a month: Read just 10 pages a day. You could probably do that in 10 minutes, right? But we rarely think in those terms.

What other things might be accomplished in 10 minutes? I would imagine you could answer an e-mail or two, scribble out a handwritten note or card, work on a crossword puzzle, call a friend, say a prayer, or research items to add to your book/music/restaurant list above. Once you start to think in these 10-minute increments, it’s as if a whole new world of possibilities open up.

Someone once said that the real tragedy of life is that so many people come to die without ever having lived.

Make sure that’s not said about you.

Jesus showed us that there is indeed “plus ultra” — plenty more beyond.

Let’s start living that way, even if it’s just 10 minutes at a time.

sixth WEEK of easter

second thoughts on the second reading

May 29 SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER Acts 8: 5-8, 14-17; Ps 66: 1-7, 16, 20; 1 Pt 3: 15-18; Jn 14: 15-21 May 30 Monday Acts 16: 11-15; Ps 149: 1-6a, 9b; Jn 15:26 — 16:4a May 31 THE VISITATION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY Zep 3: 14-18a; (Ps) Is 12: 2-3, 4bcd, 5-6; Lk 1: 39-56 June 1 Justin, martyr Acts 17:15, 22 — 18:1; Ps 148: 1-2, 11-14; Jn 16: 12-15 June 2 Marcellinus and Peter, martyrs Acts 18: 1-8; Ps 98: 1-4; Jn 16: 16-20 June 3 Charles Lwanga, martyr, and his companions, martyrs Acts 18: 9-18; Ps 47: 2-7; Jn 16: 20-23 June 4 Saturday Acts 18: 23-28; Ps 47: 2-3, 8-10; Jn 16: 23b-28

O

Christ sets us, like living stones, into position

riginally, the cornerstone of a building determined the position of the structure.

Since the cornerstone was the first stone laid in the foundation, all the other stones were set in reference to it.

Eventually, the cornerstone acquired symbolic importance as well. The date of construction would be inscribed upon it, as well as other pertinent information. Somefifth Sunday times a time capsule of Easter would even be 1 Pt 2: 4-9 included.

The Christian faith rests upon the person of Jesus Christ, upon his teachings and life.

Since Jesus Christ serves as the foundation of our faith, it makes sense to apply the image of a cornerstone to him.

That is how we will hear him described in Sunday’s second reading, 1 Pt 2:4-9.

Since the early followers of Jesus were devout Jews, it was natural for them to interpret the events of his life, death and resurrection in light of the Bible. They found certain passages in the Scriptures, which they believed anticipated what had happened to Jesus. Among these stands out a lapidary verse from the Psalms: “The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone” (Ps 118:22).

This verse seemed to point to Jesus’ rejection by the religious leadership — which led to his death — as well as the vindication of Jesus by God — which was revealed in his resurrection. Since this verse focused upon Jesus’ death and resurrection — the high point of Jesus’ life — it received a great deal of attention among the early Christians.

That is why it appeared several times in the New Testament.

In the synoptic gospels, when Jesus tells the parable of the tenants, Ps 118:22 immediately follows ( see Mt 21:42; Mk 12:10; Lk 20:17). Later, when Peter addresses the Sanhedrin, he quotes this same psalm verse. He specifically equates the builders mentioned in the psalm with the leaders of the people who put Jesus to death.

Finally, we hear the same quotation in this Sunday’s second reading, from the First Letter of Peter.

Sunday’s second reading goes far

commentary 15

beyond merely quoting Ps 118:22. In a sense, the First Letter of Peter builds upon the verse as if it were a verbal cornerstone. The first sentence of the passage echoes the verse: “a living stone, rejected by human beings but chosen and precious in the sight of God.” The original word “stone” found in the psalm is qualified as “living stone.”

The rejection originally mentioned in the psalm as coming from the builders is expanded in the Fist Letter of Peter to result from all human beings. Furthermore, the letter specifies the destiny of becoming the cornerstone as coming from God: “chosen and precious in the sight of God.” A cornerstone does not stand alone, but sets the course for other stones, to form them into a building. Sunday’s second reading calls Jesus Christ the cornerstone, who sets us, as living stones, into position: “Like living stones, let yourselves be built into a spiritual house.”

As the cornerstone, Jesus Christ is necessary. But we also are necessary components for that construction, if it is to reach completion.

Father Mike Stubbs is the senior parochial vicar of Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa and has a degree in Scripture from Harvard University.

T

Grace guides those who let God into their marriage

he old Baltimore Catechism taught us that a sacrament is an “outward sign, instituted by Christ, to give grace.”

While that simple description may not perhaps be as sophisticated as some of today’s explanations, it remains a viable summary of the meaning and nature of a sacrament.

While the description of a sacrament relates to every sacrament we have received, it becomes clearer to a couple as they journey through their years of marriage.

While many married couples don’t see that grace oozing over their married life, it is in the joys of married life that they give profound thanks to the God who has created them, the Son

who has redeemed them, and the Holy Spirit who sustains them in both the good and the rough times.

As Archbishop Naumann prepares for the upcoming archdiocesan 50th wedding anniversary celebration, we have begun to receive priceless bits of wisdom from our 2011 jubilarians.

Their married life gives testimony to the struggles, joys and faith that they embraced as they walked in love, forgiveness, in good times and in bad.

Their faith and fidelity guided them as they flattened the hills that often

occur in a marriage — of anger, hurt and selfishness. They have accepted the grace God has gifted them with, and have used this grace to mellow their self-centeredness. They have been open to life. They have welcomed the children that God has entrusted to them. They have become a family that serves God and nurtures those in need.

They have embraced the quest for oneness in the marriage. This oneness gives us but a brief glimpse of the Holy Trinity.

As we approach 15 years of gathering words of wisdom from the past couples celebrating their golden anniversary, the shared advice most prevalent in every year is “Keep God in your marriage.” This is followed closely by three other insights of the strength of 50 years of marriage: “pray as a couple,” “attend Mass together on Sundays,” and “never go to bed angry.”

God has equipped us with his grace to strengthen and guide us in our married life, and it is ours to use this grace to sanctify our relationship, marriage and family.

“When one reasons calmly and keeps the ideal in mind, it is not difficult to agree that the permanence of the marriage bond springs from the very essence of love and the family,” said Blessed John Paul II. “We love one another truly and absolutely only when we love forever, in joy and in sorrow, in good times and bad.”

The archdiocesan 50th wedding anniversary Celebration will be held on June 5 at 2 p.m. at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kan. Please call the family life office at (913) 721-1570 for additional information.

Jacki Corrigan is the archdiocesan consultant for the office of family life.

cef centered

T

Help CEF honor our Catholic school pastors

his will be my last article until after the summer, so I wanted to enlighten you and provide some “food for thought” during the upcoming months!

I know you have played the “did you know” game, right? If you have, then you will be with me. If you haven’t, then please catch up and don’t tarry.

I will start with a “do you know” question. I know it’s a “did you know” game, but, my rules.

In our world today, do you know what CEO stand for? The brilliant ones are saying chief executive officer. Right?

Wrong! I will get back to you on this one.

OK, the focus of our “did you know” game is pastors with Catholic schools.

Here we go . . .

Did you know that these individuals have a high school degree, a college undergraduate degree, a background in philosophy (two more years), at least four years of graduate work and other schooling as deemed appropriate?

Did you know that they participate in archdiocesan ministries, serve on advisory committees, high school boards, other boards and regional pastor boards?

Did you know that they attend rehearsal dinners, perform wedding ceremonies, work with parish and school staffs, attend many school and parish

meetings and make hospital visits?

Did you know that they are counselors for: husband and wife marital issues, parents worried about their kids, individuals that have lost their jobs, family financial problems, etc.?

Whew — and that is just in the morning!

I know you know that they are prayerful, hear confessions, do funerals and say Mass often.

In addition, did you know that ultimately they have the responsibility of their Catholic school?

Did you know they help our students prepare for the sacraments and often teach religion classes?

Did you know that, in partnership with our principals, they are the focal point of the Catholicity in our schools, they ensure that the school is the primary mission of the parish and they are tasked with continuing the legacy of the school by making sure our children are disciples of Christ?

Wow, these guys do a lot! They are definitely CEOs. I know I have missed many things, but you get the gist.

How can we thank them for all that they do? I know you know I have the answer — by honoring them at this year’s Catholic Education Foundation Gaudeamus event.

Mark your calendar for Oct. 8 where we will be honoring the “Catholic School Pastors.”

Our hopes are to have the 47-plus pastors in attendance for this celebration of Catholic education. This experience will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!

For more information on this year’s Gaudeamus event, go to the Web site at: www.cefks.org, or call (913) 647-0344.

Oh, by the way, CEO in my book stands for Catholic education officer!!!

Michael Morrisey is the executive director of the Catholic Education Foundation. You can reach him at (913) 647-0383 or send an e-mail to him at: mmorrisey@archkck.org.

protecting families from pornography

I

A ‘new sexual revolution’ leads to great Catholic intimacy

was recently at a Christian men’s conference, where one of the speakers asked how many men had received more than three minutes of information about sex from their fathers in their lifetime.

Out of 150 men in the audience, not a single hand was raised. I was stunned.

After the conference, I reflected on Pope John Paul II, who was one of our church’s best fathers. John Paul II spent countless hours talking to his family — the church — about God’s glorious plan for love and sexuality, and wrote nearly two thirds of what the church has ever taught about sex and marriage. John Paul’s positive and encouraging teachings about sexuality in the theology of

the body (TOB) are being called a “new sexual revolution.”

Inspiring Catholic books, CDs, and Web sites about love and sexuality have exploded in the last 5-10 years through TOB. There are TOB classes at many local churches, and many parents are using TOB resources to help their children understand God’s amazing plan for love, life, and human sexuality.

I encourage all parents and grandparents to watch, listen, and read age-appropriate TOB resources with your children on a monthly basis. Jason

and Crystalina Evert, the Web site of tob4teens.com, Mary Beth Bonacci, and Father Richard Hogan have great resources that are easy to understand.

Trust me; your kids will not think this is boring when they see how revolutionary and encouraging these TOB resources really are. The sexual mistakes that many of us made in our lives were often rooted in the fact that we did not know how incredible and beautiful God’s plan for sexuality really is!

I would also encourage you to attend two amazing TOB events in Kansas City with Christopher West and Jason Evert, who are two of the most dynamic TOB speakers in America. Christopher West will present “God, Sex, and the Universal Longing” to a large audience on Oct. 29. For more information, visit the Web site at: FillTheseHearts.com. Jason Evert will present to thousands of teens and parents at the annual Youth for Truth conference on Jan. 27 and 28, 2012.

Visit our Web site for more information.

Thanks to TOB, many married couples are experiencing a new level of sexual intimacy that is incredibly joyful, personal, affirming, healthy, meaningful, and beautiful! Married couples, check out TOB resources from West, Mary Shivanandan, Father Brian Bransfield, Dr. Janet Smith, Carl Anderson, and others to experience incredible sexual intimacy that will bring you closer to your spouse than you ever thought was possible! Before you know it, TOB will have you hugging and kissing when you greet each other, and your children will notice you contagiously smiling at each other, laughing together, and holding hands in public!

Sam Meier is the consultant for the My House Freedom from Pornography Initiative.

You can contact him through the program’s Web site: LoveIsFaithful.org.

16 local news

THE LEAVEN • may 20, 2011

Procession demonstrates unity Continued from page 1

Photo by Megan Bickford

Father Matthew Habiger, OSB, a nationally known pro-life and marriage and family advocate, talks about the challenge of changing public opinion with regard to abortion and respect for the unborn.

The new frontier in the abortion battle

By Laurie Ghigliotti Special to The Leaven

ATCHISON — Political science professor Dr. John Settich of Benedictine College here is so sure that Roe v. Wade will someday be overturned that he talks in terms of “when,” not “if.”

“When” that moment comes, moreover, Kansas might be just a little bit readier, thanks to the work of his Public Policy Analysis class.

Several states have already put conditional enactment laws, also known as trigger laws, into place in the event that the 1973 Supreme Court decision is overturned. Such trigger laws would put state regulations dealing with abortion into place, contingent on the fall of Roe v. Wade.

Several students in Settich’s class worked on just such a trigger law for Kansas and presented their research and a proposed bill in a forum on April 18 that drew students, pro-life workers, members of the community, and even a member of the state Legislature.

In their presentation, the students gave an overview of the events leading up to the Supreme Court decision that led to legalized abortion on demand. The students also presented their thoughts on why the tide of public opinion has changed, creating a social and political climate in which pro-life legislation is more likely to be adopted.

Ryan Johnson, a member of the panel, said he believes that if more states pass their own trigger laws, the Supreme Court could be more likely to overturn Roe v. Wade. The group’s proposed law would make performing an abortion a felony, except when the physical life of the

mother was in jeopardy.

According to the students’ research, advances in science have brought a clearer understanding of when life begins, as the age of fetal viability is pushed back.

Kansas has historically been at the forefront of the abortion issue, said Settich. Kansas and New York were the first states to decriminalize abortion, he said, “not to set up an abortion free-for-all, but to be able to set up regulations to protect women.”

David Kneusel, a student from Denver, agreed that Kansas is still on the forefront.

“Kansas law is presently the most pro-life in the nation,” Kneusel said.

“Our proposed law protects fetuses and provides for their personhood from conception.”

Chase Brunick, lead presenter and a student from Phoenix, noted in his portion of the presentation that overturning Roe v. Wade would not end the pro-life battle.

“It would fall back on each state to regulate abortion,” Brunick said.

That’s where the application of a trigger law becomes an asset.

In the question-and-answer session that followed, the panel heard from members of the community and other students, as well as people with expertise in the pro-life arena. In attendance were Kathy Ostrowski, legislative director for Kansans for Life; Michael Heim, senior analyst, Reviser of Statutes office; Kansas House Rep. Lance Kinzer, R-Olathe; Ron Kelsey, archdiocesan pro-life office consultant; and Father Matthew Habiger, OSB, nationally known pro-life and marriage and family advocate.

During the discussion that followed the panel’s presentation, Fa-

ther Matthew reflected on the challenge of changing public opinion.

“The most difficult thing is to retrieve respect for the personhood of the unborn,” he said.

Kinzer was in agreement.

“It’s a matter of changing human hearts,” he said. “We all play a role in building a culture of life.”

Some in the audience took issue with the exception to the proposed law and the discussion that followed illustrated the difficulty of writing legislation that protects the unborn in a way that is likely to make it through legislative hurdles and into law.

Ostrowski, for example, was not convinced that a trigger law would be the preferred strategy in the battle against abortion.

“We are all in agreement. We want to move in the direction of protecting life,” she said. “People are always looking for that silver bullet, but we should focus on incremental change. If we don’t do it incrementally, the risk is more division.”

While Brunick and his team learned more about the issues in preparation for the forum, the chance to present it to experts — and receive their feedback — was invaluable.

“I, and all of the students on the panel, feel like we have a much greater understanding of what the pro-life movement is about and what kind of progress can be made,” said Brunick. “I have some ideas about where I can go with the research and continue this project beyond the Public Policy Analysis classroom.”

“We all feel like there is much work to be done for this movement,” he concluded. “Hopefully, we have added something that is helpful.”

the church’s unity, which supersedes any administrative boundaries.

“The Eucharist lies at the core of our unity as Catholics, so [joint sponsorship of the procession] is an apt expression of the unity of the two dioceses, since we share the greater metropolitan area of Kansas City,” said Podrebarac. “It provides an opportunity for a common witness of our eucharistic faith.”

All Catholics from the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph are encouraged to observe the solemnity of Corpus Christi at the joint procession or at their own parish.

“Certainly Archbishop Naumann encourages parishes to hold their own Corpus Christi processions, because the relative size of the archdiocese makes it impossible for everyone to attend the procession,” said Podrebarac.

“The diocesan procession in no way is designed to take away the importance of local devotion to the Blessed Sacrament on this feast,” he continued. “It gives the archbishop, however, as pastor of the diocesan church, an opportunity to gather the faithful and make a public witness of our faith as a diocesan church.”

Non-Catholics will be a part of the Corpus Christi procession as well, but as ones who witness. It is hoped that they will observe this event with respect and decorum — but also with curiosity, said Podrebarac. “[We hope that] those not in communion with the Catholic Church will receive from us a witness that — despite all the problems we have as Christians, despite even the difficulties we find in our own church — that it is really Christ who is at the center of everything we believe and everything we do.”

“It is Christ whose body we are members of, and it is Christ in whom we find our unity,” he continued. “No matter what the headlines say about the church or what we even experience ourselves in the church, Christ is our high priest, our focus, our Lord and Savior. We as Catholics are proud of the fact that Christ promised to remain with us — not only spiritually, but also bodily in the Eucharist.”

Details about the Corpus Christi procession Exposition will begin at 12:30 p.m., at the conclusion of the 11:30 a.m. parish Mass. The sacrament of reconciliation will be available during the hour of exposition.

The procession will begin at 1:30 p.m. and travel approximately three-quarters of a mile from the church at Summit and 92nd streets, west to Park St., north to W. 90th Place, and south on Pflumm.

The procession will stop at the old Holy Trinity Church for a stational blessing, continue south on Pflumm to W. 92nd St., and then back to the church.

The Blessed Sacrament will be returned to the altar where Benediction will be celebrated and the service will conclude.