Prison program is at heart of Donnelly’s mission
Story and Photos by Jay Soldner
LANSING — Ahmad, Laurance, Malek and Simon are four recent Donnelly College graduates, yet they’ve never set foot on Donnelly’s Kansas City, Kansas, campus.
They all attended classes, held study groups and completed coursework from a different campus — the razor-lined, guarded and fenced-in grounds of the Lansing Correctional Facility (LCF).
The four men — Ahmad Rayton, Laurance Elnicki, Malek Brown Jr. and Simon Angilda Jr. — graduated with associate degrees in business.
The commencement ceremony for
the class of 2024 Donnelly Prison Program graduates took place in the visitation room at LCF on the morning of May 22. The room is not too far from what you might imagine if you’ve never been inside one — and not too dissimilar from what you see in movies.
One side of the room is lined with stalls and phones mounted on the wall next to thick, thick glass, with phones and chairs on the other side of the glass. Opposite the wall of phones are a couple of vending machines with soft drinks and snacks.
The graduates were dressed in traditional cap and gown over their blue jeans and T-shirts. Three of the men
wore red sashes over their gowns, representing them as first-generation college graduates.
Three wore gold and purple ropes over the gown, signifying their membership in Phi Theta Kappa honor society.
A small section of family and friends of the graduates were gathered in the room to witness the ceremony. Also present at the graduation were the prison’s warden, Jesse Howes; deputy warden Ryan Reece; Donnelly College in Prison Program director John Hewitt; Donnelly president Msgr. Stuart Swetland; Donnelly’s assistant vice president of student affairs Dr. Mary Pflanz; Donnelly’s chief
operating officer/dean Lisa Stoothoff; and Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann. Donnelly began offering classes at the prison in 2001. Since then, 38 men have earned their college diplomas. Earning a college degree is the most effective means to lower recidivism. Inmates who earn an associate’s degree are around 85% less likely to return to prison, while those who receive a bachelor’s degree are more than 95% less likely to return, according to research conducted by prisonstudiesproject.org. Msgr. Swetland knows well the data
>> See “CEREMONY” on page 16
From left, Laurence Elnicki, Ahmad Rayton, Malek Brown Jr. and Simon Angilda Jr. enjoy some cake with Sister Sharon Hamsa, OSB, following graduation at the Lansing Correctional Facility. Sister Sharon, who is a math tutor at LCF, made the graduates a cake and some cookies, with their names on them.
After setting off the walk-through metal detector with his pectoral cross, Archbishop Naumann is checked again with a hand-held metal detector.
New set of wheels is waiting for you!
By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org
KANSAS CITY, Kan. —
What does hope look like? Sometimes it looks like a bag of food handed over by Tom Tritsch.
Volunteers like Tritsch are ambassadors of hope. There is a need for more of them.
For the past five years, Tritsch has driven the Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas Resource Bus twice a month, sometimes thrice, to rural communities to distribute boxes and bags of food and sometimes other things to people who really need the help.
A little bit can make a big difference.
“Most of the time, they’re very appreciative of what we do for them,” said Tritsch. “It doesn’t really matter how much we do for them. They’re glad to have whatever assistance we offer.
“We can’t tide them over for an entire six-week period until the bus comes back, but we can help them through the rough spots, like when they’re waiting on a check to come.”
There are seven Catholic Charities Family Support Centers in the most populous of the 21 counties of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, said Andy Lucas, program support specialist for the Resource Bus.
Because not everyone can go to these brick-and-mortar sites, the Resource Bus program was begun in 2017 to serve those in rural areas. Currently, the Resource Bus visits 14 sites serving 15 counties. The bus’s home base is the Hope Distribution Center in Kansas City, Kansas.
“The bus goes out twice a week to counties north of Interstate 70 on Tuesdays, and to southern counties on Wednesdays,” said Lucas. “Primarily, it’s a mobile food pantry, but
THE THING I ENJOY THE MOST [ABOUT BEING A RESOURCE BUS VOLUNTEER] IS THE VERY DIRECT FEELING OF HELPING A FAMILY.
TOM TRITSCH
CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF NORTHEAST
KANSAS RESOURCE BUS VOLUNTEER
it also provides hygiene kits, diapers and wipes for infants, and seasonal items like school backpacks, summer activity kits for children, and winter hats, scarfs and coats for children.”
Total, the Resource Bus serves an average of 260 households a month.
One of Tritsch’s most recent trips was to the Elizabeth Layton Community Center in Ottawa. He checked in with his site contact shortly after 9 a.m. By 9:30, people began to arrive. Most walked up to the Resource Bus, but one man was unable to get out of his truck, so Tritsch went to him.
The bags he distributed were prefilled by volunteers at Hope Distribution Center with the standard contents: shelf-stable nonperishables such as pasta, canned vegetables and fruit, and bread. He also added frozen items to the bags.
“The meat we’re giving away is frozen cooked pork shoulder roasts,” said Tritsch. “Sometimes it’s chicken, sometimes it’s pork. It depends on whatever is donated by various grocery stores. We have frozen blueberries we’re giving away, too.”
People come to him outside of the Resource Bus and fill out intake forms. It’s one bag for a family of four or less, two bags for a family of five or more, or a box for even larger families. Tritsch gives them contact
information for a Catholic Charities case manager if they have other needs.
No one is turned away. He gives until the food is gone. If any is left over, he gives it to local food pantries.
The people who come to the Resource Bus include retired grandparents taking care of their grandchildren; single elderly, some with disabilities; a few young people; and the working poor whose paychecks can’t cover the necessities. He checks the forms to see if they have children who may need diapers.
“These are salt-of-the-earth people,” said Tritsch, “people in need.”
Tritsch is one of 10 volunteer Resource Bus drivers for Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas, but they need more.
New volunteers are trained through a “shadowing” program, said Lucas. Catholic Charities is looking for individuals with good driving records, who are friendly and work well with people, and are organized and can do some lifting.
“The thing I enjoy the most [about being a Resource Bus volunteer] is the very direct feeling of helping a family,” said Lucas. “You’re giving food directly to the folks who need it, and you can see how appreciative they are. You can recognize there’s a real need there.
“Each site is unique, with its own flavor in terms of clientele. But they are all appreciative and will express it verbally. There aren’t tons of resources [in these communities] for folks who are struggling, so the fact we are there is a lifeline for these communities.”
If you are interested in becoming a Resource Bus volunteer driver, contact Lucas by calling (913) 4332089, or by sending an email to: alucas@catholiccharitiesks.org.
June 16
Mass and blessing of triptych paintings — Holy Name Parish, Kansas City, Kansas
June 17
“Shepherd’s Voice” recording — chancery
Camp Tekakwitha opening Mass — Prairie Star Ranch, Williamsburg
June 18
Administrative Team meeting — chancery
June 19
Jesus Covenant Prayer Partner call
June 20
HR summer camp Mass and lunch — Savior
Communio update with Tory Baucum
CEF board meeting
June 21
Permanent diaconate Holy Hour and rehearsal — St. Michael the Archangel, Leawood
June 21
Pitching for Priests — Legends Field, Kansas City, Kansas
June 22
Permanent diaconate ordination — St. Michael the Archangel, Leawood
June 23
Mass — Divine Mercy, Gardner
June 24
Sisters of St. Anne meeting — chancery
June 25
Confirmation — Lansing Correctional Center
June 26
National Eucharistic Pilgrimage — Benedictine College, Atchison
June 29
Mass, Eucharistic Pilgrimage — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas
June 30
Mass and altar dedication — St. Francis Xavier, Burlington
July 1
Restorative prayer service — Sacred Heart, Baileyville
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE BOLLIG
Tom Tritsch stands inside the Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas Resource Bus. For the past five years, Tritsch has driven the bus two times a month, sometimes three, to rural communities to distribute boxes and bags of food and sometimes other things to people who really need the help.
After 35 years, Duchesne Clinic closes its doors
By Jeanne Gorman
Special to The Leaven
KANSAS CITY, Kan. — With eyes filled with tears but hearts full of gratitude, a group of staff, volunteers and patients assembled on a bright May morning to celebrate and give thanks for the 35 years of service the Duchesne Clinic here provided the people of the urban core and the surrounding community.
The clinic, founded by the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth, provided not only free and low-cost health care, but also friendship, comfort, support and interpreting services, among other things.
The morning began with a Mass of thanksgiving celebrated by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann and concelebrated by Father Peter Jaramillo, pastor of St. Mary-St. Anthony Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, where the clinic had operated since its beginning.
In his welcome, the archbishop recognized the day was one of mixed feelings, but also one of thanksgiving for 35 years of providing health care to the community. He offered prayers for the staff, volunteers, benefactors and patients of Duchesne. He acknowledged the faith of the Sisters in starting the clinic. He recounted how when they were looking for a location to house their clinic, they toured the old St. Anthony School. There they found a homeless man who had died in the building. They were deeply moved and took that as a sign to begin their ministry there.
While he recognized the sadness over the closing, the archbishop prayed that the staff will be able to continue all the good they have done at Duchesne at their new places of employment. He thanked the Lord for the many ways God had blessed the ministry and told those gathered how much he appreciated the way the clinic workers respected and upheld the dignity of those patients they served.
After the Mass, the congregation, led by the archbishop and Father Peter, processed over to the clinic, where participants gathered in the parking lot for refreshments and to reminisce about their time at Duchesne.
It was a reunion of sorts for the many who worked there. Sister Elena
Mack, SCL, served as a volunteer interpreter there from 2016 to 2023, after she returned from service in Latin America. What began as interpreting for patients evolved into teaching English and providing spiritual direction, especially to teens. She found her time at Duchesne very rewarding.
Sister Barbra Aldrich is a member of the SCL Healthcare’s Leaven Ministries board, which advises Intermountain Healthcare that began operating the clinic a few years ago. She said that when Duchesne opened 35 years ago, there were no other such clinics in Kansas City, Kansas. However, today, many more similar facilities exist, which will be able to provide the health care needed for the Duchesne patients.
In its closing announcement, Intermountain echoed her words, stating it had been considering the move for many months.
It concluded that “[n]umerous similar clinics are operating in the Duchesne
area that we feel can better meet the health care needs of the population we currently serve and provide them with access to the health care they need.”
Among the past clinic managers in attendance was Sister Janet Cashman, SCL, who served from 1996-2001. During her tenure, the demographics in the area were starting to reflect a large influx of Hispanics. There were few medical services for them. Sister Janet is grateful for the acceptance of and the assistance the program received from the city of Kansas City, Kansas, during her years at the clinic. She is also thankful for all of the doctors who volunteered and for help from the University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City, Kansas.
Lulu Herrera, the current manger, expressed how difficult the closing is to staff and those served, totaling about 1300 patients. Some patients had been part of the clinic community since it began 35 years ago and many for more
than 20 years. The clinic is attempting to reach them and assist them with finding new health care options.
Five-year volunteer Debbie Lieurance, RN, expressed the sentiments shared by many. She thoroughly enjoyed her time volunteering at Duchesne, as she often cared for second and third generations of patients.
She is heartbroken for the patients, many of whom do not speak English. She knows the staff took great care of them and will be missed by those they served.
Most of the staff have found employment with other health care programs in the area and expect to care for some of their former patients at their new workplaces. Duchesne closed on May 31.
As for the clinic building, Father Peter anticipates the parish will, in the coming months, discern future uses for the building, which will benefit the community in new ways.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE
From left, Milka Sabusic (St. Joseph-St. Benedict parishioner in Kansas City, Kansas), Liz Villalvasco (Duchesne patient coordinator), Beth Watkins (clinic operations manager) and Lulu Herrera (clinic manager) get emotional during the closing ceremony of the Duchesne Clinic.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE
Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann blesses the Duchesne Clinic at the clinic’s closing ceremony on May 30. Assisting the archbishop are: (from left) David Clark; Father Peter Jaramillo, pastor of St. Mary-St. Anthony Parish in Kansas City, Kansas; and Father Anthony Saiki, master of ceremonies.
CTK reunion Mass draws former students, native sons
By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org
KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Sadness didn’t dominate at the Mass in thanksgiving for the now-closed Christ the King School here. It was a time to celebrate the good that was accomplished during its 85-year history.
The last day of class was May 22.
The pastor, Father Nick Blaha, said it best before the closing prayer.
“We have many plans for the time to come,” he said. “This is not a funeral for this school. And it’s not a funeral for the parish. This is an act of thanks, and adoration, and praise.”
He asked that the Christ the King community “not allow the past or the future to rule over us, but for the present moment enjoy this time together.”
The Mass of thanksgiving on May 25, the solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity, was followed by a celebration called “Christ the King Family Reunion,” featuring a parish and school classic: a sloppy Joe feast.
Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann was the main celebrant and homilist at the Mass. Concelebrants included Father Blaha, St. Patrick Parish pastor and former Christ the King pastor Father Mark Mertes, and hospital chaplain and priest-in-residence Father Damian Beyuo Kuukole.
Also present were parish native Deacon George Karnatze, with Deacon Will Carey as deacon of the Word, and Deacon Dan Mauro as master of ceremonies — the latter two ordained on May 18.
The choir included several individuals who either attended the school or were faculty members, notably the Choral Scholars of Christ the King School. The Mass settings were composed by parish and school alumnus Father Ronald F. Krisman, now a priest of the Diocese of Orlando, Florida.
“Today, we give thanks for all who served as teachers at Christ the King [School],” said Archbishop Naumann in his homily, “all who were witnesses of God’s love to their students, who helped their students know their dignity as beloved sons and daughters of God . . . and used their gifts and talents to assist their students to develop the talents God gave to each of them.”
He expressed thanks and gratitude for the parents, principals, benefactors and the students who began their educational journey at Christ the King School and went on to be leaders in the community.
reminisce were the very youngest to the very oldest alumni.
WE ARE SADDENED BECAUSE OF THE CLOSING OF THE CHAPTER OF THIS COMMUNITY OF CHRIST THE KING SCHOOL. BUT AT THE SAME TIME, WE MUST GIVE THANKS FOR THE BLESSINGS SO MANY HAVE RECEIVED THROUGH THIS SCHOOL’S EXISTENCE.
ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN
“In some ways today, we are saddened because of the closing of the chapter of this community of Christ the King School,” said the archbishop. “But at the same time, we must give thanks for the blessings so many have received through this school’s existence.”
Among those touring the school to
First grader Hazel Hormann, who will attend St. Patrick School in Kansas City, Kansas, next year, was among the youngest. Was she a little sad?
“Yes, I was sad some of my friends are going to different schools,” said Hazel. She might see some of them at church, but not “my best-friend-forever Juliana,” who will go to another church and school.
Leo Mills and John Klein, both 92, were among the very oldest alumni wandering the hallways. Mills transferred from Blessed Sacrament School, and Klein from St. Anthony School, both in Kansas City, Kansas, and long closed.
“We were here when they first opened the school [in 1940],” said Mills, a member of St. Patrick Parish. “The church was [downstairs] and upstairs were three classrooms. We didn’t have all this fancy stuff.”
Back then, the western city limit was 34th Street. There weren’t a lot of houses around.
Among their favorite memories was playing softball with the Benedictine
Sisters, who taught at the school, and the pastor. The Sisters were pretty good, Klein recalled.
“If you hit a ball over to where the church is now, there was a septic field with fluid that came up,” said Mills. “You had to leave it.”
Angie Shinn toured the school with other graduates of the class of 1981.
“My favorite memory was of a friend of ours who went to a different school and got out earlier than we did,” said Shinn. “It was the end of the year. He rode his bike down the bottom hallway with the Sisters chasing him. He grabbed [the bike] and ran back up the stairs. We thought it was the funniest thing ever.”
Father Blaha said that the school “will not lie fallow” but will continue to be a place of education, although in different ways. Various ideas and proposals will be explored.
“We want to let the Lord guide us in these new steps that we are taking,” he said. “Wyandotte County, I’ve learned, is resilient and it’s often underestimated, so you haven’t heard the last of us.”
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Parishioners, former students and educators gather after Mass to talk and reminisce about the 85-year history of Christ the King School in Kansas City, Kansas, at the school’s closing Mass on May 25. Financial difficulties forced the school to close.
St. Thomas Aquinas rugger coaches both on and off the field
By Allen Ohlhaut Special to The Leaven
OVERLAND PARK — It was nearly go time for the St. Thomas Aquinas High School men’s rugby team here.
With rugby nationals fast approaching, they’d been hitting practices hard, perfecting their strategy and reinforcing their team chemistry.
Yet even with so much on the line for their season, they hadn’t lost their focus on the bigger picture.
That’s why they spent the morning of May 18 doing what has become a hallmark of their club for nearly two decades: giving back to the community.
Or as Rosco Halsey puts it, “Providing a bunch of bulky boys who enjoy physical labor.”
This spring, that took the form of re-shaping the landscaping outside St. Mary-St. Anthony Parish in the heart of downtown Kansas City, Kansas.
Halsey, whose son played previously for the STA Saints Rugby, said the final results will be amazing.
“We’ve moved in a massive flowerpot, we’re going to do tree-trimming, mulching, edging, add some new trees, plant flowers,” he said. “They have a brand-new shrine coming in, and we’re gonna enhance that shrine with some new flowers. It’s going to look really nice.”
Halsey first became involved with the rugby team when his son played seven years ago. During that time, both he and his son grew to admire the club’s founder and coach, Tim Kluempers, a veteran of the USA Rugby team.
“[Tim] likes to win, but at the same time, he leaves his players with a perspective of life which they don’t get from many coaches,” said Halsey.
Kluempers, said Halsey, has the ability to get the most out of his players on the field, in their personal lives and in their shared Catholic faith.
“These kids travel all over the country, but if they have a Sunday game, they dress up and they show up to Mass beforehand,” said Halsey. “[Tim] keeps the faith at the top of the priority list, and he coaches these kids beyond what happens out there on the field. That’s why so many parents — like me — stay involved with him even after our kids leave, which is a great thing.
“If a guy changes your kid’s life, you don’t forget that.”
Founded by Kluempers in 2007, STA Saints Rugby has won 14 of the last 15 Kansas State Rugby Championship titles, and in 2022 finished 4th in the nation out of 2,500 clubs.
Nationals. (The STA team finished 7th there this year.)
“Coach is one of the best people we know; he’s a huge role model for us,” said Doerfler. “As a rugby coach, he’s one of the best, and as a person he teaches us so much. That’s part of why we’re doing this project, he wants us putting the same amount of work into service as we do into rugby.”
For his part, Kluempers is full of praise for his young captains — and all of his players.
“Owen and Max are such great young men. They have their teammates’ respect and high rugby IQs. Our goal this year was to make our teammates look better. It’s about the team, and these guys all really bought into it.”
The player captains, Owen Charlton and Max Doerfler, are proud of what they’ve accomplished this season, as they’ve notched several dominating wins against top-tier teams.
the center position.
Doerfler agrees.
“Our chemistry is great — just in terms of on-field play, trusting our teammates, trusting the guys next to us,” says Charlton, a senior who plays
“Everyone’s bought in this year,” he said. “There’s a huge sense of teamwork and identity.”
But they know there’s still work to do. And they’re determined to make their coach and teammates proud at
“It’s fun to interact with the boys off the field,” added Kluempers, as he paused in his bush-planting efforts to brush some dirt off his hands. “I like to step in and dig with them. That way, they know that we’re here helping each other, from the top to the bottom.”
Likewise, as the team made its final preparations for the trip to Nationals, the ruggers left the Catholic community at St. Mary-St. Anthony a little better than they found it — from the top to the bottom.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE
St. Thomas Aquinas rugby players (from left) Keegan Moyer, Charlie Bogan, Gavin Middendorf, Ben Mullen, Jozef Best and Fred Maxwell load a wheelbarrow full of mulch as they prepare to re-shape the landscaping outside St. Mary-St. Anthony Parish, in the heart of downtown Kansas City, Kansas.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE
From left, Jake Ernsting, Catherine Kluempers, head coach Tim Kluempers and McClain Schieltz get down and dirty as they work to beautify the grounds of St. Mary-St. Anthony.
Rescued relics find a home thanks to young craftsman
By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org
ST. MARYS — God’s timing is perfect.
That’s just one lesson
Trevor Carlson, a junior at St. Marys High School and a member of Immaculate Conception Parish, learned as a result of his recently completed shop project.
In late spring 2023, Carlson, then a sophomore, was looking for his next project. Having just finished a nightstand, he needed something to work on during the last weeks of the school year. Keith Aubert, his wood shop teacher and also an Immaculate Conception parishioner, just happened to have an idea, one to which Carlson eagerly agreed.
Aubert explained to his young protégé that the parish church was looking for someone to build relic holders.
Carlson got to work, sketching the thoughts Aubert shared with him, impressing his teacher.
“He’s a good artist. On the drawing, I remember he drew it all out. He had it all sketched out. I just told him, ‘This is what Father [Justin Hamilton] and I talked about, kind of draw it out and we’ll get the dimensions,” Aubert said. “The next thing you knew, he had it all 3D-sketched out and all of the dimensions.”
April 14 marked the first time that parishioners had a chance to view the recently installed relic holders and venerate the relics of nine saints, including St. Thérèse of Lisieux, St. Henry de Osso y Cervello, St. Agnes of Montepulciano and St. John Bosco, among others. All but one are considered first-class relics, meaning the relic is a fragment of the saint’s body, such as bone or flesh.
In addition to veneration, parishioners also had the opportunity to learn about the saints through biographical sketches and holy cards displayed near each relic holder.
And although the design and construction phase of the project began in 2023, Father Hamilton, the parish’s pastor, said the story actually began
three to three-and-a-half years ago when parishioners brought him the relics that had been rescued from being sold at an estate sale and a thrift store. (The church forbids the sale of relics or any religious articles after they’ve been blessed, as it can appear as if the church is selling blessings.)
“They were being given away, and no one realized their spiritual value. And they brought them to me, and I thanked them,” said Father Hamilton.
But they sat at the rectory for at least 18 months because he didn’t know what to do with them — and he didn’t know if they were authentic. For public veneration, the church requires relics to be accompanied by a certificate of authenticity, something he didn’t have, at least not at the time.
On July 31, 2021, Father Carlos Martins, CC, brought “Treasures of
Church,” a traveling exposition of more than 150 relics of the saints, to St. Stanislaus Parish in Rossville, the second parish for which Father Hamilton serves as pastor.
Father Hamilton said Father Carlos delivered “a beautiful presentation.”
“As he mentioned, he’s not a traveling museum,” he said. “He is trying to bring people to Christ through relationship with the saints, to find a deeper relationship with the Lord and the healing they need.”
“These [relics] are meant to be touched, held, prayed with,” insisted Father Carlos. “We’re supposed to feel that closeness to the saints. They’re not meant to be locked away in a safe that no one will ever see.”
That made something click in Father Hamilton’s mind. Sometime later, Father Carlos examined the relics and
was able to authenticate them. That’s when Father Hamilton started displaying the relics on the particular saints’ feast day and blessing the faithful with them. Then, he started wondering about permanent displays.
“I had no idea how to put them on the wall or mount them in a way that was dignified,” Father Hamilton said, but conversations with Michael Podrebarac, the archdiocese’s liturgical consultant, underscored the importance of ensuring the relics were displayed not only in a dignified manner, but securely, to prevent sacrilege.
Having the involvement of Aubert and Carlson means the world to Father Hamilton because now the relics are no longer hidden.
“[The saints] were glad to get out of the drawer,” said Aubert with a laugh. “They’ll be forever helping us.”
LEAVEN PHOTO BY MARC ANDERSON
Trevor Carlson, a member of Immaculate Conception Parish in St. Marys, displays the relic holder that he built in wood shop at St. Marys High School. Carlson built several relic holders for the parish.
DOUBLY BLESSED
May 19 was a day of celebration for Sacred Heart Parish in Emporia. Not only did the parish have its own anniversary to commemorate — the 150th anniversary of when the first church was built in 1874 — but the parish also took the occasion to laud native son Father Harry Schneider, who is celebrating his 50th anniversary as a priest this June.
Ursuline Sister Susanne Bauer, longtime educator, dies at Kentucky motherhouse
MAPLE MOUNT, Ky. — Sister Susanne Bauer, 90, an Ursuline Sister of Mount Saint Joseph, died here on June 5 in her 73rd year of religious life. She was a native of Louisburg. She was an Ursuline Sister of Paola prior to that community’s 2008 merger with the Ursulines of Mount Saint Joseph. She grew up on a farm and loved to spend time in nature and the garden. She was an educator for 42 years in Kansas and Oklahoma, and was assistant superior and treasurer of her community from 1990-98.
Sister Susanne taught at Queen of the Holy Rosary School, Overland Park (1959-64 and 1967-70); St. Philip Neri School, Osawatomie (1964-67); and Holy Angels School, Garnett (1989-90). She was principal of Sacred Heart School, Ottawa (1998-2001), and was a teacher’s aide at Holy Rosary School, Bucyrus (2001-09), where she also helped with the after-school care program.
She also taught at St. John School in Bartlesville, Oklahoma (1970-89), and served as its principal from 1976-89. She served as the chapel sacristan at the motherhouse in Maple Mount from 2009-18.
She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Marie Bauer, and siblings George Bauer, Tom Bauer and Elizabeth Hofacker.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF MARVIN M TAJCHMAN
Above, from left, Deacon Daniel Vehige, Father Carter Zielinski, pastor of Sacred Heart Parish, Emporia, and Father Harry Schneider, retired, are pictured at a Mass celebrating the 150th anniversary of Sacred Heart Parish in Emporia. The Mass also celebrated the 50th anniversary of Father Schneider as a priest, who is a native son of Sacred Heart.
Sister Susanne Bauer, OSU
FATHERHOOD: THE SECOND TIME AROUND
‘How could I say anything but yes?’
By Michael Brown Special to The Leaven
Working through my wife and my children — indeed, in every facet of my life — God continues to model for me what it means to be a good parent.
And I, using strength beyond my means, find a way to not totally screw it up.
Michael Brown FAMILY COURT FINALLY AWARDED US GUARDIANSHIP OF THE FIVE LAST JANUARY. THE STABILITY HAS HAD AN AMAZING EFFECT ON THE KIDS. THEY WILL NO LONGER BE BOUNCED AROUND FROM ONE PLACEMENT TO ANOTHER. THEY WILL ATTEND THE SAME SCHOOL OR DAY CARE YEAR AFTER YEAR. MOST IMPORTANT, HOWEVER, IS THAT OUR DOMICILE IS NOW THEIR HOME — THEIR PERMANENT HOME FOR AS LONG AS THEY LIVE.
I had spent 30 excellent, crazy years as a Catholic journalist — writer, editor, communications director. The day that COVID-forced cutbacks killed the diocesan newspaper in Tucson, Arizona, was sad and a relief. My wife Joyce had allowed me to switch jobs several times, relocating thousands of miles around the country with our two daughters. The last switch, to Tucson, was the final one as well, as the warm climate became a relief for the growing aches and pains of old age.
Joyce had landed a job teaching middle school students with special needs in local public schools. That’s where she directed me as, with trepidation, I searched for a new career. I was hired to teach English to high school students with special needs. It was in this context that Joyce asked me to consider getting our license to be foster parents.
She had a student passing into high school who was being forced out of his foster home into a group home because of his age. She knew that such a change would likely erase all the gains he had made in her class, and it didn’t take me long to say yes.
Greatest gift
Briefly, the greatest gift I have is faith. I’ve done nothing to earn it and have tried repeatedly and mightily to ignore it. I knew that if I had said no to the foster care, my wife would still love me. But would I love myself? How could I look in the mirror each day knowing that we had the space, the parenting experience and the job stability to welcome the Jesus in a child into our home, but I had said no?
After a long process, one that concurrently ended favorably for the young man who was returned to his original foster home, we received our first placement. The paperwork said he was 7, and we got five hours’ notice. Nahshon appeared on our doorstep that night three years ago with a slice of pizza in his hand, a poop in his pants, and his social worker.
It turned out he was 5, but somehow the
Foster care by the numbers
According to the Kansas Department for Children and Families, as of Jan. 16, 5,895 youths were in the foster care system — down 22% from 2019. In fiscal year 2023, the number of children entering foster care was 2,960 — down 28% since 2019. About 61% of cases were due to abuse or neglect, with the other 39% due to families in need of assessment.
A February 2023 report showed the rate of foster care entry in the state of Kansas is 4.36 per 1,000 children, exceeding the national rate of 2.37 per 1,000 children.
For more information from the Kansas Department for Children and Families, go online to: dcf.ks.gov.
paperwork was a fortunate mistake as our license only allowed us to have children ages 7 or older. It was one of many amendments that were added to our license. A month later, his younger sister Harley, age 3, joined us from a failed placement.
There were two other siblings in foster care, and over the course of the next year, we became home to another younger sister, Valentina, and a 14-yearold, Rosa.
If this sounds a little overwhelming, it was. Quickly, I adopted the annoying habit of having to run through the litany of names before hitting the right one in a direct address.
In late 2022, the 15-year-old moved back in with her dad and mom, who in December had child five, Bubba. Sadly, battling addictions, homelessness and frequent failures, the parents were forced to give up both children, and in May of 2023, Joyce and I became foster parents to five siblings.
With reunification a fading dream, the family court finally awarded us guardianship of the five last January. The stability has had an amazing effect on the kids. They will no longer be bounced around from one placement to another. They will attend the same school or day care year after year. Most important, however, is that our domicile is now their home — their permanent home for as long as they live.
A leap of faith
Faith has driven me in this journey. When asked if we would go from three to five, I was scared. It would mean midnight feedings for a 6-month-old.
It would mean going solo if one of us got sick or visited our daughters living in other parts of the country.
It would mean paying for seven airline tickets to attend our daughter’s wedding last fall.
It would upend all the plans for a quiet retirement with my wife, my garden and the book I have been researching for a decade.
How could I say anything but yes?
Joyce’s faith journey is far different than mine. She’s a brilliant mind and a generous heart slowed by a body ravaged
Front to back, Nation “Bubba,” Valentina, Harley Park Zoo, one of the kids’ favorite activities.
From left to right, Rosa, Nahshon, Harley, Nation Nahshon ended with all five siblings being reunited
by an abusive childhood. Her faith journey is like a car zooming down the highway largely bereft of scenery; mine has been a casual stroll taking in every sight and sound along the way.
Yet, together, we have managed to flourish in marriage for almost 35 years. We have seen our worst selves and our best and have survived them.
In March, our older daughter had her marriage explode on her. She and our
granddaughter were essentially recovering from a deep emotional loss and forced to start a new life on their own. After about a week, Joyce was able to spend 10 days away, helping them set up a new apartment, day care and a stable home.
‘Always comes back’
The Fab Five have grown to understand that when things like this happen, the person gone “always comes back.” It’s that inner assurance we want to continue to build in the kids, who have suffered immeasurably from the real consequences of being abandoned.
A lot happened in the 10 days Joyce was gone:
• Harley, now 6, came down with an ear infection. A quick doctor’s visit led to an antibiotic and slow recovery. She also fell into former behaviors: acting out inappropriately, perniciously lying, and hiding soiled underwear and clothes under her sister’s mattress. Then, she developed chicken pox.
• Bubba, the baby, developed a yeast infection, leading to another doctor’s visit, topped off with an allergic reaction to the prescription cream.
• Valentina, now 4, was asking almost every hour when “Mom” was coming home.
• Nahshon, now 8, was trying to be super helpful, amid fits of hyperactivity despite meds to help him self-regulate. Rosa, now 15, has seen such terrible things that she’s pretty much shut down emotionally. I have been able to open her mind to what a good dad does and to demand more of her beyond the expectation that she will fail high school or graduate to a world with no hope and few prospects.
Recently, however, she’s asking if she can have a bunny for a pet. I like
uncomplicated things, so I will let Joyce adjudicate that one.
Father’s Day is a great recognition, and I have a drawer full of Greatest Dad and Greatest Grandpa T-shirts. My reality is that being a dad isn’t the ability to procreate. It’s not about working 16-hour days or climbing a ladder to be able to provide more for my family. The privilege of being a dad comes with a much deeper calling.
My faith sees the presence of God in my life. I see God as the garden master in my yard. I see God as the perfect teacher in my classes. I see God as the divine editor who made all my stories better.
I see God as the loving parent — the one who cares about me and cares for me no matter how often I screw up or whatever “impossible” challenge I face.
No instruction manual
There’s no instruction manual to being the perfect dad. It’s a foundation of listening with an open heart. It’s built with love and patience and capped with a prayer at the end of the day to the Parent of us all.
Here’s my conversation offered at the start and close of every day. It keeps me grounded and focused on the next five minutes.
At dawn, I say, “Thank you, God, for a beautiful sunrise and for a good night,” and at dusk, “Thank you, God, for a beautiful sunset and a good day.”
In short, working through my wife and my children — indeed, in every facet of my life — God continues to model for me what it means to be a good parent.
And I, using strength beyond my means, find a way to not totally screw it up.
Foster families need our help, our prayers
Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann has called on the Catholic Church to be part of the solution for children in need of a home.
“Not every family is called to be a foster family,” he wrote in a column in the May 7, 2021, issue of The Leaven. “However, if only 2% of Catholic families became foster homes, we could make a huge difference in the lives of children in Kansas and essentially end the foster care crisis.
“It is my hope and desire that every parish would raise up one or more families to become foster homes.”
In a video released in 2020, the archbishop encouraged Catholics who are unable to foster to find other ways to help.
“We need to support foster families by wrapping them in prayer and providing practical help so that their homes can be a place of peace and stability for the children they serve,” he said.
“As Catholics, we’re called to love others as Jesus has loved us,” he continued. “We do this by living the corporal works of mercy. And as Psalm 93 says: ‘Defend the weak and the fatherless.’”
To read the archbishop’s column on foster care in Kansas, go online to: theleaven.org/foster-kids-andfamilies-need-your-prayers-andyour-practical-support.
To view his video message on foster care, go to YouTube and search: “Fostercare Message from Archbishop Naumann.”
In 2019, the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas established a Foster Care Task Force. Since then, the task force has hosted multiple Foster Family Appreciation Masses and Respite Nights at archdiocesan parishes.
This spring, the pro-life office of the archdiocese created a new foster care position and hired Kathy White as the foster ministry and pro-life coordinator.
To learn more about foster care in the archdiocese, go to the website at: archkcks.com/foster; send an email to: kwhite@archkck.org; or call (913) 721-1570, ext. 217.
Harley and Nahshon enjoy some time at Tucson’s Reid
Nation (“Bubba,” being held by Joyce Brown) and Valentina have all become a part of the Brown family through foster care. What started as a placement for reunited under the Browns’ roof.
Eucharistic Pilgrimage
June 25
St. Benedict’s Abbey, Atchison
Procession from Amelia Earhart Bridge to the abbey at 3 p.m. Vespers at 5 p.m., dinner and eucharistic adoration start at 5:30 p.m.
June 26
Benedictine College, Atchison
Benediction at 9:45 a.m. Mass at 10 a.m.
Eucharistic procession around Benedictine’s campus starts at 11:15 a.m.
St. Joseph Parish, Nortonville
Lunch will be from 1-2 p.m. Eucharistic adoration and procession from 2-2:30 p.m.
Assumption Church, Topeka
Afternoon – Eucharistic procession from the Great Overland Station to Assumption Church, Topeka
Most Pure Heart Of Mary, Topeka
Evening of testimony and Eucharistic Amazement from 7:30-9 p.m.
June 27
Assumption Church, Topeka
Mass at 8 a.m. followed by a procession to Brown vs. Board of Education Park
Corpus Christi Parish, Lawrence Lunch and eucharistic adoration
St. Michael the Archangel, Leawood Evening of testimony, Eucharistic Amazement and adoration will be held from 7 -9 p.m.
June
28
Mission on Mission Road
Stage 1: Church of the Nativity, Leawood, to Tomahawk Creek Park. Begin at Nativity with 8 a.m. Mass. After Mass, process to the Tomahawk Creek Park area (1.2 miles). Buses will be available to take pilgrims back to Nativity or on to Curé of Ars, Leawood.
Stage 2: Curé of Ars to Franklin Park
Beginning at 10:30 a.m., pilgrims will process from Curé to Franklin Park (1.1 miles). Buses will be available to take pilgrims back to Curé or on to St. Agnes, Roeland Park. Pilgrims will have lunch at St. Agnes at noon.
Stage 3: St. Agnes to Rosedale Park
Beginning at 1 p.m., pilgrims will process from St. Agnes to Rosedale Park (1.2 miles). Buses will be available to take pilgrims back to St. Agnes or on to Donnelly College, KCK.
Stage 4: Donnelly College to the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle, Kansas City, Kansas Beginning at 3 p.m., pilgrims will process from Donnelly College to the Cathedral of St. Peter (.5 mile). Buses will be available to take pilgrims back to Donnelly College or back to Church of the Nativity.
June 29
Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas Mass begins at 8 a.m. and will be the conclusion of the pilgrimage in the archdiocese.
June 25-29
TSister Christin Noffke makes vows
ORONTO, Ohio — The Franciscan Sisters, TOR, of Penance of the Sorrowful Mother announce the first profession of Sister Christin Noffke who was born and raised on a farm in Pleasanton. She is the daughter of Bill and Sheri Noffke.
Sister Christin professed the vows of poverty, chastity and obedience before Bishop Paul Bradley, apostolic administrator of the Diocese of Steubenville, Ohio, on June 4.
years as a home health nurse before entering the community in 2021.
After earning a degree in nursing at Benedictine College in Atchison, Sister Christin worked for two years in patient rehab and two
Dorothy (Lorenz) and Francis “Doc” Stock , members of Sacred Heart – St. Casimir Parish, Leavenworth, will celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary this June. The couple was married on June 20, 1959, at Immaculate Conception Church in St. Joseph, Missouri. A trip to Branson, Missouri, including Mass at Lady of the Lake Church, is planned for the family. Their children are: Debbie Heintzelman, Mary Beth Rayne and Dan Stock. They have seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
David and Cathy Evers, members of Church of the Ascension, Overland Park, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on June 21. The couple was married on June 21, 1974, at St. Dismas Church in Florissant, Missouri. Their children are: Jana Rojas, Elizabeth Guerra and Matthew Evers. They also have seven grandchildren.
Karen and John Znidarsic, members of Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa, will celebrate their 50th anniversary on June 29 with their children — Angela Weiden, Jim Znidarsic, and Michael Znidarsic — and two grandchildren. The couple was married on June 29, 1974, at Holy Trinity, Lenexa.
Sister Christin’s discernment of a vocation to religious life was gradual and over a number of years. At 11 years old, she entered the Catholic Church, along with her siblings, at an Easter Vigil Mass at Sacred Heart in Mound City. She first thought of religious life when she was 13. However, over the next 10 years, she experienced periods of uncertainty regarding her vocation until, in 2018, she went on a discernment retreat with the Franciscan Sisters. She applied to the community in 2020 and entered as a postulant in 2021.
Russell and Charlene (Moore) Kimberlin, members of Sacred Heart Parish, Tonganoxie, will celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary on June 20. The couple was married on June 20, 1959, at Holy Angels Church, Basehor. They have a son, Mark, and two grandchildren.
Roger and Judy (Kollmorgen) Denesia, members of Church of the Ascension, Overland Park, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on June 20. The couple was married on June 20, 1964, at the Newman Center — St. Thomas Aquinas Church, on the campus of the University of Nebraska, Lincoln. The couple will celebrate with family near the end of June. They have two daughters — Christine and Catherine — and five grandchildren.
Jane and Sylvester Scherer, members of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor, will celebrate their 65th wedding anniver -
sary with a family dinner. The couple was married on June 13, 1959, at St. Ann Church, Effingham. They have one daughter, Sandra Ann Brock, two grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Irma and Bill Hund, members of Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish, Topeka, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary with a trip to Irma’s home country of Belize. The couple was married on June 8, 1974, at Assumption Church, Topeka. They have three children — Jennifer, Bryan and Chris — and five grandchildren.
Restorative prayer service set for July 1
KANSAS CITY, Kan. — The archdiocesan office for protection and care will host a prayer service in atonement for sexual abuse led by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann at Sacred Heart Church in Baileyville on July 1 at 6:30 p.m.
All are invited to attend.
“The prayer service is a result of ongoing restorative work with victims/survivors who have shown great courage in coming forward and sharing their stories,” said Melanie Savner, administrative assistant for the office for protection and care.
“Their goal is to reclaim the church
Sharon and Galen Holthaus, members of St. Gregory Parish, Marysville, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on June 15 with a family dinner. The couple was married June 15, 1974, at St. James Church in Kearney, Nebraska. Their children are: Wesley Holthaus, Yvonne Castro, Wanda Brown, April Spicer, Marsha McIntosh, Rock Holthaus, Lamar Holthaus, Monica Wallace and Charlton Holthaus. They also have 23 grandchildren and two stepgreat-grandchildren.
Edith (Fincham) and Herschel Mentgen, members of Annunciation Parish, Frankfort, will celebrate their 75th wedding anniversary on June 20. The couple was married on June 20, 1949, at Annunciation. They have one daughter, Christine. They also have two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Robert and Laura (Hedges) Cotter, members of Church of the Nativity, Leawood, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on June 14. The couple was married at St. Agnes Church, Roeland Park. Their children are: Kelly Ingebritson, Chris Cotter and Kevin Cotter. They also have eight grandchildren. They will celebrate with a trip this summer to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, with family.
space, where the harm occurred so long ago,” she continued, “and purify it to regain a sacred space for all.
“We hope to accomplish that through meaningful Scripture readings, a sprinkling rite of the confessionals, remarks by Archbishop Naumann and an introduction of our staff and how we protect and serve people in our archdiocese.”
The evening will conclude with a reception with time for conversation and fellowship.
For more information on the office for protection and care, visit the website at: archkck.org/ protection-and-care/office.
Sharon and Patrick Mays, members of Holy Cross Parish, Overland Park, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on June 13. They were married at Redemptorist Church in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1964. They had a celebration with family and friends.
Dan and Judy Burbach, members of Holy Spirit Parish, Overland Park, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on June 20. The couple was married at St. Joseph Church, Topeka. Their children are: Christopher, Zita Gillispie, Nicholas and Michael. They also have 14 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. They will celebrate with a family gathering at their home in Overland Park.
Steven and Joyce Bowlin, members of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on June 21. They were married at Holy Angels Church, Basehor, on June 21, 1974. They have three sons: Matt, Robert and Tim. They also have eight grandchildren and three great-granddaughters.
Veronica (Rottinghaus) and Gervase Stallbaumer, members of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor, will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary on June 29. The couple was married on June 29, 1954,
at St. Bede Church, Kelly. They have four children, four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
ANNIVERSARY SUBMISSIONS
POLICY: The Leaven prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th anniversary notices. They are for parishioners in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas
DEADLINE: 10 days before the desired publication date.
INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:
• The couple’s names
• their parish
• the date they were married
• church and city where they were married
• what they are doing to celebrate
• date of the celebration
• names of children (no spouses)
• number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren;
SUBMISSION GUIDELINES:
• Emailed photos need to be 200 dpi or 200 KB in size.
WHERE TO SUBMIT: Email: todd.habiger@theleaven.org.
Sister Christin Noffke
EMPLOYMENT
Director for the Marillac Retreat and Spirituality Center - The Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth are currently seeking a director for the Marillac Retreat and Spirituality Center. The director of the Marillac Retreat and Spirituality Center is responsible for leading the center, drawing on our mission and charism to serve the critical spiritual needs of God’s people today by providing an environment of prayer, peace, hope and transformation. As St. Vincent, St. Louise, and Mother Xavier taught us, the Marillac Center is a place of encounter for the poor and marginalized and all those who serve them. The ideal candidate will possess a master’s degree in theology, spirituality or related field; knowledge of, or willingness to, embrace the mission and values of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth and the Vincentian charism; and previous experience working in a space focused on hospitality, rest or spirituality. To view the full job announcement, please visit our website at: www.scls.org. If you possess the desired qualifications and would like to work for a truly wonderful and outstanding religious community, please email a cover letter with salary requirements and your resume to: recruiting@scls.org.
Custodian - Are you a reliable and detail-oriented individual with a passion for keeping spaces clean and welcoming? Do you take pride in keeping spaces spotless and well-maintained? Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Shawnee is seeking a dedicated part-time custodian to ensure our sacred spaces are spotless and inviting for all who come to worship, learn and gather. This is a part-time, 20-hours-per-week position. Apply at: www. shoj.org/employment-opportunities.
Bookkeeping specialist - Are you a meticulous number cruncher with a knack for keeping finances in perfect harmony? Do you love bringing order to the world of debits and credits? If so, Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Shawnee has the ideal part-time role for you! This is part-time, 25 hours per week. Apply at: www.shoj.org/ employment-opportunities.
Parish life assistant and child care coordinator - Are you passionate about supporting a mission-driven Catholic parish and making a real impact? We are seeking a dedicated individual to join our team as a parish life assistant and child care coordinator. This is more than just a job — it’s a calling to serve others in our Sacred Heart of Jesus Church community in Shawnee. This is a full-time position. Apply at: www.shoj.org/employment-opportunities.
Parish accountant - Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa is seeking a parish accountant. The parish accountant maintains accounting systems that adhere to generally accepted accounting principles and ensures adequate internal controls for the parish. Responsible for financial statement preparation, maintaining parishioner tithing records, accounts payable, budgeting, payroll processing and benefits administration. A bachelor’s degree in accounting and a working knowledge of QuickBooks or a similar accounting system are required. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and experience in general ledger accounting, payroll and budgeting are preferred. This position is full time and qualifies for archdiocesan benefits, including health, dental, vision, life insurance and 401(k) match. A full position description can be found at: htlenexa.org/ job-openings. Interested applicants should submit cover letter and resume to: lweber@htlenexa.org.
Accountant - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking to hire an Accountant III. This position would be responsible for performing various key accounting duties, including journal entries, bank reconciliations, account reconciliations and analysis, sales tax filings and assist with maintenance of fixed asset records. A minimum of three (3) years’ relevant accounting work experience, including experience maintaining accurate financial records, preparing reports, budgeting systems, preparing financial or auditor statements, schedules and reports is required. To apply, go online to: https://recruiting.paylocity.com/Recruiting/Jobs/ Details/2486629.
Youth minister – Divine Mercy Parish is seeking a 9th - 12th grade youth minister. Come work in this young and energetic parish. This is a part-time position (less than 20 hours per week). To inquire, contact: parish@ divinemercyks.org or call (913) 856-7781.
Outreach coordinator – Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas is seeking an outreach coordinator. Do you have a passion for educating and advocating on social justice issues? Catholic Charities is seeking a compassionate, joy-filled and motivated individual to serve as an outreach coordinator. Primary responsibilities include collaborating with parishes, school and community organizations in the 21 counties of the archdiocese to educate on the social mission of the church and invite others to respond to live out the Gospel call to love and serve our neighbors. To learn more or apply, visit: catholiccharitiesks.org/careers/.
Now hiring - drivers and aides - Assisted Transportation is hiring safe drivers and aides to transport students in Johnson and Wyandotte counties, in company vans. Drivers earn $14 - $16 per hour. Part-time and full-time schedules available. CDL not required. Retirees are encouraged to apply. Make a difference in your community by helping those in need! Call (913) 262-5190 or visit www. assistedtransportation.com for more information. EEO. Case management specialist - Do you have experience in a social service-related field? Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas is seeking a case manager with HUD programming and/or HMIS experience. Opening is in the Olathe Family Support Center. Interested applicants should email: catholiccharitiesks.org/careers/.
Computer systems analyst/senior computer systems analyst - The Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth seek a computer systems analyst/senior computer systems analyst to provide hardware, software and network support to our community of Sisters and employees. The ideal candidate will manage asset inventory, assist with network management and resolve computerrelated issues in a large campus environment. Key responsibilities include evaluating and recommending technology solutions, maintaining computer hardware inventory, managing software patch deployment and providing technical support to end users. The role calls for a bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field, along with 1-4 years of experience in information technology. Strong communication, organization and problem-solving skills are essential. Proficiency in troubleshooting hardware, software and network issues and expertise in Microsoft Office Suite, Windows operating systems and Active Directory are preferred. If you embody our values of caring, compassion and concern and are adept at multitasking, prioritizing work and staying current with industry trends, we would love to hear from you. For more details, please visit our website at: www.scls.org. To apply, please email your resume to: recruiting@scls.org. EOE.
Director of youth ministry - St Peter Catholic Church in Kansas City, Missouri, is seeking a full-time director of youth ministry, with salary and benefits. There is currently no existing youth ministry at St. Peter. This is an exciting opportunity to be able to create a parish youth ministry (for 6-12 graders) from the ground up. There will be an early emphasis on 6th through 8th graders in St. Peter School. Almost every child in the parish also attends the school. For this reason, the youth minister has the opportunity to create a culture and design something in the school that engages and forms kids to be disciples of Jesus while also building from this a vibrant youth ministry that extends beyond school boundaries. We are looking for an innovative thinker and a pioneer spirit to bring fresh ideas to this endeavor. Applicants should send cover letter, resume and list of references to Chad Pirotte at: cpirotte@stpeterskc.org.
Hospice RN case manager - Catholic Community Health is seeking a full-time hospice RN case manager. Minimum requirements: graduate of an accredited school of nursing; RN licensure (current, unrestricted); valid driver’s license; auto insurance; reliable transportation. Benefits include a starting salary of $80,000 annually; 401(k) matching; flexible schedule; life insurance; and paid time off. For more information, go online to: HR@catholiccommunityhealth.org or (913) 621-5090.
Coaches -Bishop Miege High School is seeking the following coaches for the 2024-25 school year: Head softball, head wrestling and girls wrestling. Contact Joe Schramp, athletic director at: jschramp@bishopmiege. com or (913) 222-5802.
Director of music – Good Shepherd Parish in Shawnee. Potentially full- or part-time. Good Shepherd is a parish with a long-standing music tradition. The music ministry includes an SATB choir, cantors and musicians. Both musicians and parishioners cherish their diverse repertoire, ranging from traditional hymns to contemporary songs. A state-of-the-art pipe organ will be installed during the summer of 2024, opening exciting possibilities for liturgical music at Good Shepherd. The director of music oversees leading the choir in rehearsals and services; rehearsing with cantors and musicians as needed; keeping the music library organized and updated; and overseeing all the musical aspects of the parish. The ability to play the piano and organ is desirable. Administrative duties include: keeping the equipment functioning and tuned; attending staff, music committee and worship committee meetings; scheduling cantors and accompanists for the weekly Masses; and preparing the yearly budget for the music ministry. Salary commensurate with experience. Start date negotiable. Submit your application via email to: pthacker@gsshawnee.org. Include resume, application letter, three references and (optional) recording of conducting or accompanying at the piano.
Technician Needed ASAP - Do you like to tinker? Are you detail-oriented? Then this is the job for you! A locally owned family business is currently seeking candidates to provide preventive maintenance (cleaning) and repair service on microscopes. No previous experience necessary, on-the-job training provided. Good communication, time management and customer service skills necessary. Expenses paid, out in the field majority of time and each day is different! Some travel is required. Please contact us at: techneeded23@gmail.com.
Director of religious education and first sacraments coordinator - Do you want to be a team player on an A-Team whose primary mission is to bring souls on a collision course with the Sacred Heart of Jesus? The director of religious education and first sacraments coordinator is responsible for overseeing the spiritual and educational development for kindergarten through fifth grade children of the parish. This role involves designing, implementing and evaluating age-appropriate curriculum and programming that integrates religious instruction with sacramental preparation, ensuring that children receive a comprehensive and meaningful foundation in their faith formation. To view job description and to apply, please visit our website at: https://shoj.org/employment-opportunities. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
Caregiver needed - Caregiver needed for senior inhome support. CNA or nursing certification needed. We seek a dedicated, compassionate, dependable, respectful caregiver with experience and good skills. Light housework, simple meals and household chores are part of the job. Rates will be discussed. Call Jean at (206) 834-5445.
Office help - KC Lift & Elevator is looking for an individual to perform clerical duties, five to six hours per week. Individual must possess attention to detail to accurately input service tickets into our sales force CRM. Additional possible opportunities to help with designing and executing mailings. Friendly, casual environment with flexible hours. No remote work option; attendance required two times per week. $13 - $15 per hour. Please send resume or inquiry to Maria at: mkoch@kclift.com.
Personal assistant - C.H. Yarber Construction is seeking a personal assistant. This person helps clients who need someone to handle several responsibilities. If you are interested, please complete the virtual assistant application. Responsibilities include: handle administrative tasks; manage schedules; book appointments; and source and manage external vendors. For job information and updates on virtual assistant roles, email us at: mxrimagingsolution@gmail.com, text (307) 632-2700 or go online to: chyarber.com and click on “Careers” and fill out the requested information.
Staff job openings - Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, a Catholic college offering higher education for those who may not otherwise be served, has the following staff job openings available: front desk receptionist, director of development, part-time front desk receptionist and admissions counselor. Find job descriptions and details at: www.donnelly.edu/careers.
Maintenance technician – The Kansas City Ballet is looking for a full-time, 40 hours per week, maintenance technician with a strong work ethic and self-starter. The preferred candidate should have a good sense of all general skills related to building maintenance, including basic electrical and plumbing. Knowledge of floor maintenance is helpful. This position also includes setting up for events. A maintenance technician is a thorough professional with attention to detail. The ideal candidate will be able to work autonomously and responsibly. The candidate needs to be able to lift 60 pounds and occasionally work off a ladder or lift. All employees are both background and motor vehicle checked. This position may include some minimal weekends and evenings. Competitive pay, including benefits, overtime pay, vacation/sick time and 401(k) with match. Ideal position for KPERS-eligible or equivalent individual. Interested candidates should send a resume to the COO at: kamey@kcballet.org.
Teacher openings - Holy Trinity School in Lenexa has the following openings for the 2024-25 school year: second grade; fifth grade science and social studies; and art (first - forth and sixth - eighth grade). Interested applicants should complete the teacher application process online at: www.archkckcs.org, click on “Apply,” then “Teachers” and then click on the link that says “Access here” and then email a resume to principal Scott Merfen at: smerfen@htslenexa.org.
Part-time director of music - Divine Mercy Parish in Gardner (Johnson County) is seeking a part-time director of music. This position includes playing organ/piano for up to three weekend liturgies, scheduling music for all liturgies, scheduling cantors, and playing for funerals and weddings as needed. The ideal candidate will have experience playing both organ and piano; cantor skills desired but optional. Email Maria Lopeman for more information at: parish@divinemercyks.org or call (913) 856-7781.
Music/band teacher - Manhattan Catholic Schools is looking for a K - 4 music teacher and a 5 - 8 band teacher or to split into two part-time positions for the 202425 school year. Applicants can apply online through the MCS website at: www.manhattancatholicschools. org or contact principal Mike Hubka at: mhubka@ manhattancatholicschools.org or call (785) 565-5050.
Early childhood educators - With multiple locations in Johnson County, Special Beginnings Early Learning Center provides high quality child care in a safe, loving, Christian environment. Our classrooms are full and we are looking to add to our amazing team. We are looking for both full-time and part-time teachers for all ages of children. If you have an excellent work ethic, a heart for children and a willingness to learn more about early childhood education, we would love to meet you. For more information or to apply, call Anne at (913) 8940131, ext. 102.
Make a meaningful impact today -Join L’Arche Heartland as a Direct Support Professional in our residential homes. Contribute to the empowerment and enrichment of adults with developmental disabilities as they engage in meaningful lifestyles. We have immediate full-time positions available. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes 100% coverage for medical, dental and vision expenses. Conveniently situated in downtown Overland Park. Training provided. Apply now by visiting our website at: www.larcheks.org/join-out-team or by emailing: james@larcheks.org.
Community and family ministry leader - St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee is seeking a part-time community and family ministry (CFM) leader. This leader would be responsible for nurturing and guiding a ministry and evangelism strategy that provides vision, skills and community for single, engaged and married people. The leader will lead a ministry task force responsible for executing this initiative to invite and move church and community through outreach and ongoing engagements into Growth Journeys where relationship skills content is delivered/transformed. The leader will also serve as St. Joseph’s chief liaison with our Communio church strategist. Interested applicants should email resumes to Veronica Quinn at: vquinn@stjoeshawnee. org or call (913) 244-3909.
Faculty and adjunct faculty job openings - Donnelly College, Kansas City, Kansas, a Catholic college offering higher education for those who may not otherwise be served, is a Catholic college offering higher education for those who may not otherwise be served. Faculty job openings - no current openings. Adjunct faculty job openings - adjunct instructor for Nursing. Find job descriptions and details at: www.donnelly.edu/careers.
Communication coordinator – St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee is seeking a full-time communications coordinator. The communications coordinator will coordinate and support the St. Joseph Campus with communication projects. This position will work closely with the school principal, EEC director and parish office to develop and implement communications strategies, media relations, social and digital media, article writing, video production, advertising/marketing initiatives and other communication support as needed. A successful candidate should be Catholic, with strong relationship skills and the ability to work in a collaborative setting. The overall goal for this position is to promote St. Joseph Catholic Campus as the go-to source for relevant, reliable, evidenced-based information. Interested applicants should email resumes and cover letter to Father Scott Wallisch: frscott@stjoeshawnee.org or call (913) 631-5983 for more information.
After-school care lead teacher - Nativity Parish School is looking for an after-school care lead teacher for our day school and grades K - 5. Applicants should be at least 18, and have previous teaching or assistant teaching position in a licensed early childhood program. Must be Virtus trained and CPR/first-aid certified. Hours are Monday - Friday from 3 - 6 p.m. with one Tuesday a month 1:45 - 6 p.m. Please contact Katie.King@kcnativity.org.
Catholic school elementary principal for Resurrection School - Are you a passionate and visionary leader looking to make a difference in the lives of young learners? Do you thrive in diverse, culturally rich environments? Resurrection Catholic School in Kansas City, Kansas, is seeking a joyfully Catholic school leader with demonstrated skill in the academic and spiritual formation of students. With a board of trustees, the principal will lead a team to advance the school’s academic licensure in educational leadership. Ideal candidates will be fluent in English and Spanish, but Spanish-speaking not required. Apply online at: archkckcs.org/apply and scroll down and click on “Principals.” For more information, contact Dr. Vince Cascone, superintendent, at: vcascone@archkckcs.org.
Caregivers needed - Daughter & Company is looking for compassionate caregivers to provide assistance to seniors in their home, assisted living or in a skilled nursing facility. We provide sitter services, light housekeeping and light meal preparation, organizational assistance, care management and occasional transportation for our clients. We need caregivers with reliable transportation and a cellphone for communication. We typically employ on a part-time basis, but will strive to match up hours desired. Contact Gary or Laurie at (913) 341-2500 if you want to become part of an excellent caregiving team.
Youth and young adult minister - St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee is seeking a full-time youth and young adult minister. The candidate would be responsible for nurturing and guiding teens and young adults, have an evangelism strategy that provides vision, skills and community. The successful candidate will have excellent organizational and communication skills. Interested applicants should email resume and cover letter to Veronica Quinn at: vquinn@stjoeshawnee.org or call (913) 244-3909 for more information.
SERVICES
KC creative photography - Quinceañera, weddings, family and videography. We offer great results and can build a package for your budget. Contact: www. kc-creativephotography.com. Spanish - (816) 2251330, ask for Yeny; English - (816) 509-6024, ask for Sebastian. Text or call.
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) 271-0362.
Double A’s Lawn Service Lawn mowing, Mulching, Gutters, Leaf Removal Brush Removal & Hedge Trimming Free Estimates & Insured Alex Spoerre (913) 488-5195
Free estimates - We are offering free estimates to all those thinking about painting this year. At Stone Painting, we put the customer first. We provide interior, exterior house painting along with deck staining, fence painting, etc. Stone Painting ensures a professional, clean and fair-priced job. Call today for your free estimate. (913) 963-6465.
Memory quilts - Preserve your memories in a keepsake quality quilt, pillows, etc. Custom designed from your T-shirt collection, baby clothes, sports memorabilia, neckties . . . Quilted Memories. (913) 649-2704.
Garage door repair expert
New Garage Doors Garage Floor Coatings
A Total Door Inc., Since ’83. Leaven discount joe@atotaldoor.com; (913) 236-6440.
>> Classifieds continue on page 15
BEREAVEMENT MEETING
Curé of Ars (Father Burak Room)
9401 Mission Rd., Leawood
June 15 at 8:30 a.m.
The bereavement ministry at Curé of Ars Parish will have a grief support meeting after the 8 a.m. Mass. A grief counselor will speak. For information, call (913) 6492026.
SUMMER THEATER AND CHOIR CAMPS
Bishop Ward High School
708 N. 18th St., Kansas City, Kansas
June 17 - 21 (theater grades 6-8)
June 24 - 28 (choir grades 6-8)
From 7:45 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Come join Bishop Ward’s summer theater and choir camps. For our theater camps, students going into grades 3 - 5 can join us June 10 - 14 and students going into grades 6 - 8 can join us June 17 - 21. Students will play theater games and learn a one-act play. For our choir camp, grades 6 - 8 can also join us June 24 - 28 from 7:45 a.m. - 1 p.m. Cost is $150 and includes a T-shirt, breakfast and lunch daily, and a free ticket to Bishop Ward’s fall musical. To register and for more information, go online to: www.wardhigh.org/page/youthsummer-camps.
SUMMER FUNDRAISER
St. Mary - St. Anthony Parish (Bishop Forst Hall)
615 N. 7th St., Kansas City, Kansas
June 15 at 4 p.m. for Mass
The summer fundraiser will begin after Mass. “The Ethnic Festival” will feature food celebrating our diverse cultural heritages: Irish, German, Latino and American items. There will also be a general raffle; a 50/50 pot; games and the “salami, beer & povitica wheel”; a silent auction; DJ; a bingo/loteria game; and a bounce house for kids. Event sponsorships and items for our silent auction (value of $50 or more) are welcome. Please join us for a fun-filled evening to support St. Mary - St. Anthony Parish.
MEDITATION ON THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS Church of the Nativity 3800 W. 119th St., Leawood June 15 at 8:15 a.m.
The Society of the Daughters of St. Francis de Sales have been inviting women to practice virtues and holiness in every-
day life for over 150 years. Come reflect with us as we share meditations on “The Sacred Heart of Jesus” in the tradition of Salesian spirituality after Mass. All materials are provided, and coffee and light refreshments will be served. To attend, contact Ruth Owens by email at: rowens4853@gmail.com; or call Barbara McClung at (816) 535-4531 or send an email to: wwwabird1960@gmail.com. For additional information, visit the website at: www.sfdsassociation.org.
WIDOWED WOMEN OF FAITH
Perkins Restaurant (back room)
1720 S.W. Wanamaker, Topeka
June 18 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Join other “Widowed Women of Faith” for lunch. No RSVP needed; just come. Please invite other widowed women of faith. We meet every month on the third Tuesday. Questions? Go to: WidowedWomen ofFaith@gmail.com or call (913) 558-0191.
ANNUAL PICNIC
St. Mary Parish
9208 Main St., St. Benedict
June 22 at 5 p.m.
Fresh fried chicken and ham dinner with all the sides will be served in an air-conditioned hall beginning at 5 p.m. Meals to-go are also available. The cost is: $12 for adults; $6 for kids ages 4 - 10; and free for kids under 4. There will also be games and concessions as well as an auction at 8 p.m. Great family fun! Everyone is welcome.
MEXICAN FIESTA
St. John the Evangelist Parish 1234 Kentucky St., Lawrence
June 22 from 6 - 11 p.m.
St. John Parish and School is thrilled to announce it 42nd annual Mexican Fiesta. The fiesta has become a cherished tradition in Lawrence, celebrating Mexican culture and heritage with a vibrant evening of music, dance, food and community. This year will feature the acclaimed Pablo Sanhueza and KC Latin Jazz All-Stars. There will also be performances from Alejandro Lopez and Grupo Folklorico Iacalli. Money raised from the fiesta supports the school and scholarships for secondary education to Mexican Catholic youth in the Lawrence community.
HOLY ROSARY RALLY IN HONOR OF OUR LADY OF FATIMA
St. Mary-St. Anthony Parish 615 N. 7th St., Kansas City, Kansas June 23 from 3 - 4:15 p.m.
We will pray the joyful, sorrowful and glorious mysteries of the rosary. Benediction will follow, as well as an opportunity for attendees to enroll in the brown scapular. For more information, visit the website at: www.rosaryrallieskc.org.
DAUGHTERS OF ISABELLA LITTLE FLOWER CIRCLE
Christ the King Parish
5972 S.W. 25th St., Topeka
June 23 at 12:40 p.m.
At the next meeting, we will be having the “Summer Bash for Mary’s Choices.” Burgers and hot dogs will be provided; bring a side dish. The rosary will be recited at 12:40 p.m. followed by a presentation and social.
SOCCER CAMPS
Chieftain Park, Tonganoxie
June 17-21
St. Joseph School, Shawnee
June 24-28
These camps will be coached primarily by Benedictine College players and coaches. They are for ages 3-12. Time for ages 3-6 are 8:15 - 9:15 a.m. and cost $80. Times for ages 7-12 are 9:30 a.m. - noon and cost $130. For more information, call (913) 360-0394. Sign up online at: ggsoccer.futi.no.
SPANISH FAMILY CAMP
Prairie Star Ranch
1124 California Rd., Williamsburg
June 28-30
The archdiocesan evangelization office again is offering Summer Camp Number III for Hispanic families. Camp Tekakwitha provides this camp for the 12 parishes that have Hispanic communities. The cost is per person and is $155. The deadline to register is May 14. Register online at: arch kck.org/camp-tekakwitha/family-camps.
SENSORY-FRIENDLY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION
Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish 7023 W. 71st, Overland Park
June 29 at 6 p.m.
There will be a sensory-friendly eucharistic adoration designed to create a welcoming space for persons with disabilities and their families within Catholic faith communities. This liturgy aims to provide a peaceful and accessible environment for all individuals, regardless of their abilities, to grow in their faith through eucharistic adoration. The church is wheelchair-accessible and
includes accessible and flexible seating options to accommodate various mobility needs and allow families to sit together. There will be large-print worship aids or visual schedules provided to aid participation. A designated calming area will be available for persons who need to take a break. Assistive listening devices or sign language interpreters will be provided as requested. Sensory items such as fidgets, weighted lap pads, rosaries, etc., will be made available. After eucharistic adoration, there will be an opportunity for fellowship and refreshments to foster community. The sacrament of reconciliation will also be available.
EUCHARISTIC MIRACLES OF THE WORLD
St. Theresa Parish (hall) 209 3rd St., Perry
July 5 - 8, noon - 5 p.m.
St. Theresa Parish will be hosting the Vatican-approved international Eucharistic Miracle of the World exhibit in the parish hall. This is free to view. The Eucharistic Miracle of the World exhibit is a traveling display on loan from the Catholic Radio Network. It features 157 beautiful panels that highlight some of the world’s most powerful eucharistic miracles. For more information, visit the website at: catholic radio.com/miracles.
BIKING FOR BABIES
Sacred Heart Parish 1031 S. 12th St., Sabetha July 8 at 5:30 p.m.
We are biking for babies to renew the culture of life, one pedal stroke at a time. Young adults cycle 600 miles in six days across the nation, giving it all to renew the culture of life and support pregnant women through pregnancy centers and maternity homes. There will be a meet and greet meal at 5:30 p.m., a presentation at 6 p.m. and Mass at 6:45 p.m. Contact Lesa Duryea to see how you can give, help or attend. For more information, go online to: www.bikingforbabies.com.
CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS
DEADLINE: Noon, Thursday, eight days before the desired publication date.
SEND SUBMISSIONS TO: beth. blankenship@theleaven.org.
DAILY READINGS
ELEVENTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
June 16
ELEVENTH SUNDAY
IN ORDINARY TIME
Ez 17: 22-24
Ps 92: 2-3, 13-16
2 Cor 5: 6-10
Mk 4: 26-34
June 17
Monday
1 Kgs 21: 1-16
Ps 5: 2-3b, 4b-7
Mt 5: 38-42
June 18
Tuesday
1 Kgs 21: 17-29
Ps 51: 3-6, 11, 16
Mt 5: 43-48
June 19
Romuald, abbot
2 Kgs 2: 1, 6-14
Ps 31: 20-21, 24
Mt 6: 1-6, 16-18
June 20
Thursday
Sir 48: 1-14
Ps 97: 1-7
Mt 6: 7-15
June 21
Aloysius Gonzaga, religious
2 Kgs 11: 1-4, 9-18, 20
Ps 132: 11-14, 17-18
Mt 6: 19-23
June 22
Paulinus of Nola, bishop; John Fisher, bishop, and Thomas More, martyrs
2 Chr 24: 17-25
Ps 89: 4-5, 29-34
Mt 6: 24-34
TWELFTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
June 23
TWELFTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Jb 38: 1, 8-11
Ps 107: 23-26, 28-31
2 Cor 5: 14-17
Mk 4: 35-41
June 24
THE NATIVITY OF JOHN THE BAPTIST
Is 49: 1-6
Ps 139: 1-3, 13-15
Acts 13: 22-26
Lk 1: 57-66, 80
June 25
Tuesday
2 Kgs 19: 9b-11, 14-21, 31-35a, 36
Ps 48: 2-4, 10-11
Mt 7: 6, 12-14
June 26
Wednesday
2 Kgs 22: 8-13; 23: 1-3
Ps 119: 33-37, 40
Mt 7: 15-20
June 27
Cyril of Alexandria, bishop, doctor of the church
2 Kgs 24: 8-17
Ps 79: 1b-5, 8-9
Mt 7: 21-29
June 28
Irenaeus, bishop, martyr
2 Kgs 25: 1-12
Ps 137: 1-6
Mt 8: 1-4
June 29
PETER AND PAUL, APOSTLES
Acts 12: 1-11
Ps 34: 2-9
2 Tm 4: 6-8, 17-18
Mt 16: 13-19
Hepi Fodder’s Dey!
These words were uttered with joy and affection every third Sunday of June to my grandpa, my dad and other men in the neighborhood by Suseda. She was a memorable character, sort of a Croatian Yogi Berra, who often delightfully mangled the English language.
Only later did I learn that her name was not Suseda, but Mrs. Ozanich! “Suseda” means “neighbor” in Croatian, which makes sense since she lived next door to my maternal grandparents. But I digress.
With Father’s Day this weekend, Suseda’s words came to mind since my family adopted them as our own as we greeted our fathers, grandfathers, uncles and godfathers on their special day.
I was blessed growing up to be surrounded by many exemplary, faith-filled men who taught me the lessons
Help us to do, Dad!
MARK MY WORDS
FATHER
MARK GOLDASICH
Father Mark is the pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie. He has been editor of The Leaven since 1989.
of hard work, a willingness to sacrifice for the sake of family and how to deal with adversity courageously. They also modeled joy and gratitude for simple things and a zest for life, expressed in song, dance and good food. They exhibited a willingness to serve — their neighbors, their country and, most of all, their parish. Naturally, my dad Carl was my most pow-
erful influence. One of my fondest memories was accompanying him every Sunday morning after he ushered at Mass to buy Italian bread at the Roma Bakery in Kansas City, Missouri. Rain, snow or shine, we drove there. Before heading home, however, we stopped first to deliver at least six loaves of bread to the nuns at my parish and the kids they cared for at St. John’s Orphanage/ Home (now the Strawberry Hill Museum in Kansas City, Kansas). Since I got the “honor” of climbing up all the steps to the convent to deliver the bag of bread — while my dad,
ahem, waited in the car — I learned the lesson not only of generosity but of putting the needs of others first. And on the bakery drive, Dad taught me the importance of laughter and singing . . . and of simply spending time together.
Over the past week, my in-box has been flooded with suggestions for Father’s Day gifts. For the life of me, I can’t remember one gift that (I hope!) I gave my dad over the years.
The following story did, however, bring me comfort:
While a grown man was awaiting surgery in a hospital, he said to his father, “I sure hope I can be home for Father’s Day.”
The two recalled Father’s Days they’d shared and then the son said wistfully, “I still feel awful that when I was ten, I didn’t give you either a card or a gift.”
The father replied, “Son, I remember the Saturday before that Father’s Day. I saw you
in a store, although you didn’t see me. I watched you pick up several cigars and stuff them into your pocket. I knew you didn’t have any money, and I suspected you were about to steal those cigars as a present for me. I felt extremely sad to think you would leave the store without paying for them. But almost as soon as you tucked those cigars in your pocket, you put them back in the box on the shelf.
“When you stayed out playing all the next day because you had no present to give me, you probably thought I was hurt. You were wrong. When you put those cigars back and decided not to break the law, you gave me the best Father’s Day present I ever received.” (Found in Medard Laz’s “Love Adds a Little Chocolate.”)
This Father’s Day, whether our dads are alive or deceased, maybe the best present we can give them is to live proudly the good example they’ve provided.
We’re called to ‘walk by faith’ — yet still we have plenty of guides
To walk by faith, and not by sight, is one of the challenges and joys of the spiritual journey. This is the invitation extended to all in God’s word this Sunday.
The church offers us countless examples of holy men and women, known and hidden, who show us that it is possible to walk by faith in God. Take the life of St. Aloysius Gonzaga, whose feast day the church celebrates this coming week.
Born into an aristocratic Italian family, the young Aloysius was set to live a comfortable life by inheriting his family’s wealth and pursuing a life of pleasure
Sullivan is a professor at The Catholic University of America.
and honor. God had a different plan for his life. For when he went to Florence to study, he began reading the lives of the saints while recovering from an
illness. Then, he heard the Lord’s call to offer a self-gift of his life as a missionary. Even as he was drawn to the Jesuit order, his family did all they could to prevent him from answering the call to the priesthood, even threatening the loss of his inheritance. The saintly Aloysius continued on, walking by faith, as he gave up his inheritance to answer God’s call as a novice in the Society of Jesus in Rome. Soon after, he dedicated himself to teaching youth and to caring for those suffering from the plague and other contagious diseases. The witness of his holiness was a seed of faith that spread
among the people, growing like branches of a vibrant tree. He is said to have died with the name of Jesus on his lips, radiating the peace and love of God.
In the Gospels, Jesus compares the kingdom of God to a mustard seed. This smallest of seeds, when sown in the ground, grows into the largest of plants, putting forth branches that give shelter and shade from the heat of the day. This Gospel imagery continues the teaching of the prophet Ezekiel in the first reading when God promises to plant a cedar on the mountain heights. This plant will, by God’s care, become a large cedar in which birds of every kind
dwell and find shade in its branches. God promises to bring low the high tree, and lift high the lowly tree, wither up the green tree, and make the withered tree bloom. God’s mighty hand will accomplish all these marvelous works. As we ponder the word of God, we hear the call to walk by faith and not by sight. Our journey of faith begins in the grace of God, who plants the seed and nourishes and sustains the gift of faith in our lives. The daily challenge is learning to let go of self-dependence and to grow in childlike trust in Jesus as we pray in faith, “Speak to me, Lord.”
Pope thanks priests for faithful, generous dedication to their flocks
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — While Pope Francis often raises warnings against “clericalism” and “spiritual worldliness” in the priesthood, he expressed his deep gratitude and affection for priests and deacons around the world for what he called their generous and faith-filled dedication to their communities.
“I would like first to convey my gratitude, my affection and my
closeness to the priests and deacons of the whole world,” he told members and consultants of the Dicastery for Clergy, which was holding its plenary assembly at the Vatican.
“Many times, I have warned against the dangers of clericalism and spiritual worldliness, but I am well aware that the vast majority of priests work with great generosity and spirit of faith for the good of the holy people of God, bearing the
weight of many hardships and facing pastoral and spiritual challenges that are sometimes not easy,” he said during an audience at the Vatican June 6. The pope emphasized the importance of giving priests support and ensuring they do not feel alone.
“Weaving a strong network of fraternal relations is a priority task in ongoing formation,” he said.
“It is indispensable for priests to feel ‘at home,’” the pope added.
JEM SULLIVAN
>> Continued from page 12
Ros Painting - Transforming your home one paint coat at a time. Over 20 years of residential and commercial interior and exterior painting. Reliable, professional and affordable. Insured. Call or Text Ramiro today for a free estimate! (913) 579-5016.
Catholic counseling - Sam Meier, MA, LCPC - (913) 952-2267 and David Walter, MA, LCPC - (913) 9522267. Book an appointment at: StillWatersKC.com, in person or telehealth.
MIKE HAMMER MOVING - A full-service mover. Local and long-distance moving. Packing, pianos, rental truck load/unload, storage container load/unload. In-home moving and office moves. No job too small. Serving the KC metro since 1987. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, parishioner. Call the office at (913) 927-4347 or email: mike@mikehammermoving.com.
EL SOL Y LA TIERRA
*COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL
*LAWN RENOVATION *MOWING
*CLEANUP AND HAULING
*DIRT GRADING/INSTALLATION
*LANDSCAPE DESIGN* FREE ESTIMATES
HABLAMOS Y ESCRIBIMOS INGLES!! CALL LUPE AT (816) 252-1391
Concrete construction - Tear out and replace stamped, stained or colored patios and drives. Retaining walls, footing, poured-in-place safe rooms, excavation and hauling. Asphalt drives and lots. Fully insured; references. Call Dan at (913) 207-4371, or email: dandeeconst@ aol.com.
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.
CAREGIVING
Home care - CMA, 15 years experience, background check available, references available from past employers. Call (913) 999-4340.
Certified nurse’s aide - I am a certified nurse’s aide with 40 years’ experience. I can come help with a bath for senior citizens that can’t bathe on their own. $30 per bath. Call Karla at (913) 626-1641.
Family member with dementia or need help at home? - We specialize in helping seniors live SAFELY at home, where they want to live! We also offer free dementia training and resources for families and caregivers. Benefits of Home - Senior Care, www. Benefitsofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591.
Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management and transportation for seniors in their home, assisted living or nursing facilities. We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Laurie, Pat or Gary.
Caring Christian companion - I’m a retired licensed practical nurse with 20-plus years of experience caring for those facing medical challenges. I will work for you in home, assisted living or nursing home. Qualified to transport to and from physician’s or therapy and personal trips. References from past employers are available. I am someone who is caring, honest and dependable. Call Barbara at (913) 645-3779.
PILGRIMAGE
Pilgrimages to Medjugorje - August 9 - 17, 2024; September 12-20, 2024 (for those recovering from drug/alcohol addiction), December 27,2024 - January 4, 2025, March 12 - 20, 2025 (Mairjana’s yearly apparition). Are you being called? Hosted by visionary Mirfana Soldo. Call Grace Legaspi for details at (913) 449-1806.
WANTED TO BUY
Wanted to buy
Do you have a car or truck that you need to get rid of? If you do, CALL ME!
I’m a cash buyer. We’re Holy Trinity parishioners. My name is Mark. (913) 980-4905.
Wanted to buy - Antique & Collectibles: jewelry, military items, railroad, sterling, OLD holiday/toys and more. Renee Maderak (913) 475-7393. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.
Will buy firearms and related accessories - One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee.
Cash paid - for old tools, old jewelry, old furniture, military items, fishing lures, hunting items, old crocks, arrowheads and old signs. I buy all kinds of older things — house or barn contents, an estate or just one item. Call Patricia any time at (913) 515-2950. Parishioner at Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa.
Wanted to buy - I buy coin collections, military items, pocket watches, jewelry, class rings, old toys, holiday items and more. Cash in hand. Call Kirk at (913) 2139843.
REAL ESTATE
We are local people who can buy your house - Big companies from all over the nation come here buying houses, but that’s not us. We are parishioners of Holy Trinity Parish and we enjoy giving you personalized service. We can offer you a fair price and are flexible to your needs. If I can help, call me, Mark Edmondson, at (913) 980-4905.
We buy houses and whole estates - We are local and family-owned, and will make you a fair cash offer. We buy houses in any condition. No fees or commissions and can close on the date of your choice. Selling your house has never felt so good. Jon & Stacy Bichelmeyer (913) 599-5000.
FOR SALE
Residential lifts - New and recycled. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. St. Michael’s parishioners. KC Lift & Elevator at (913) 327-5557. (Formerly Silver Cross - KC).
For sale - Double crypt #128 by the altar in the Holy Family Mausoleum. Includes 2 Trappist caskets at Resurrection Cemetery in Lenexa. Asking $10,000. Call (816) 517-0305 or (816) 405-1519.
For sale - Single plot in beautiful area, Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Kansas City, Kansas, located in section 9, lot 21, space 3. Valued at $2195, asking $1850 and I pay the $200 conveyance fee. Contact Juanita at (913) 530-3490.
For sale - Two plots at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Kansas City, Kansas. Located in section 3 Old, lot 126, plots 6 and 10. Flat markers only. Contact Ann at (913) 620-5687.
HOME IMPROVEMENT
STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Free estimates. Call (913) 579-1835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.
Popcorn ceiling texture removal Call jerry at (913) 206-1144. 30 years experience serving Johnson County. Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.
Local handyman - Painting, int. and ext., wood rot, mason repair, gutter cleaning (gutter covers), dryer vent cleaning, sump pump (replace, add new), windows, doors (interior and exterior), honey-do list, window cleaning and more! Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118.
8:30 a.m. Sundays on
FM and KEXS AM 1090 Encore Monday at 11:30 a.m.
Ceremony honors Donnelly faculty, staff and students
>> Continued from page 1
on recidivism rates and is pleased to see the students’ dedication to their studies.
“It is such an honor and a joy to see our Donnelly students at Lansing Correctional Facility graduate,” he said. “Many do so with honors, because they dedicate themselves to reading everything and fulfilling all the assignments. We know that this Donnelly education will serve them well as returning citizens and greatly reduces the likelihood of their return to prison.”
The graduation itself reminds the Donnelly president of the Gospel of Matthew’s 25th chapter and its relation to the mission of Donnelly College.
“I so clearly see the presence of Jesus when I go into Lansing Correctional Facility,” said Msgr. Swetland. “Jesus teaches us in Matthew 25 that when we visit or serve those who are incarcerated, we are actually visiting him. At graduation, we are able to honor the work that these students have accomplished and the wonderful faculty and staff from Donnelly who instruct and serve them, the families that support them, the volunteers who pray with them and the Lansing staff who make these educational opportunities possible.
“Our College in Prison Program embodies Donnelly’s mission to serve those who might not otherwise be served.”
The two years of taking college courses and studying also helps the men stay out of trouble in the prison.
“I’m thankful for those that was by my side helping me. I’m just so grateful because this program has helped keep me out of trouble, you know. Being in prison, little small things get to us, but staying focused on my education — academics — has really kept me out of trouble and kept me focused,” said 35-yearold Angilda.
Brown was also grateful for the opportunity to get an education, which helps alleviate some of the day-to-day hardships of being in prison.
He said that when he first arrived at the prison, he was “nervous, anxious, you’re trying to figure it out at that point — you don’t know what lies ahead.
“You go through the justice system and then, once you end up in places like this, you kind of go through the motions to see what’s next. They hand you a bed roll, they assign you a room with some guy that you’ve never seen before — so, a bunch of nerves.
“Once you get to know the officers,” Brown continued, “once you get familiar with names and places, find your way around this place, I think that’s when the light starts to click on — you know — ‘OK, I’m here, this is what I got to do.’ So now, you know, you find places like education, re-entry, and start finding classes and job opportunities and you
find yourself consumed in those things. I’m constantly in education. It’s been my home away from my cell.”
Brown said he felt good about accomplishing the goal of getting a college degree, and he credited and offered thanks to those around him. “These dudes, man, we walk together, we help each other out.”
Donnelly College accounting adjunct instructor Darcy Oetting said she teaches the same coursework at the Donnelly College campus as she does at Lansing and added, “Some of my most dedicated students are here.”
“I’ve heard feedback from them — they are getting their degree and they’ve worked hard for it, but more than that, it gives them a bigger sense of purpose and it shows them that they can do whatever they want to do,” she said. “They had a goal, they worked their butts off, and they get to receive a degree.
“It’s the most rewarding job I’ve ever done.”
Brown was also thankful to have dedicated educators teaching the coursework.
“Miss Darcy — she’s a great lady, she’s special — she is very helpful,” he said. “She’s a great professor. She is always well-prepared. Her being well-prepared prepared us for what was in front of us. And she understood that we were going in places where we hadn’t been — in academics.
“She’s the type of person that you want around.”
The program director, John Hewitt, considers his role one of service and honor.
“I have been in higher education as an instructor and as an adviser for many years,” he said. “Rarely have I been able to see the direct results of what I do, the impact of my work, as I see here at LCF in moments like this graduation. It is an honor to serve these gentlemen, who are determined to make a new life.”
Elnicki said he keeps busy with schoolwork and a job on the inside.
“I work eight hours in the metal fabrication shop, and then, I come in from work and I go straight to class every day,” he said. “There are days I have two classes in one day, so I have full days. Then when you’re back in the cell, you’re studying, you’re doing your schoolwork.”
The schoolwork and the job, said Elnicki, help keep him on the right path.
“It’s easier to get into trouble in here than out there,” he noted.
Successfully completing the coursework and earning the degree gave all four men a boost of self-esteem and selfworth.
“I feel different,” said Elnicki. “I feel good.”
“I know that I worked hard, and what I wanted to accomplish, I did — which was doing something different in life,” he added. “I feel like more of a man instead of a boy.
“I was childish — that’s what led me to prison. I grew up rough, poverty, trauma — all of those things that I went through
in life — I feel like hold me down. But working through that stuff, I’m looking forward. And I think I’m going to be able to be a contributing part of society.”
Angilda, too, was elated.
“Ah, man, I feel great. I like what the man said when he was giving us lessons about how Jesus died for us,” he said.
“I still got dreams,” Angilda continued. “I’m in the midst of writing a book, too. It’s called ‘I Messed Up Bad, but God Cleans Up Good.’ I’m working on getting it published right now. It’s an autobiography of my life — how God has changed me and how he’s still working on me.”
Angilda hopes his life experiences can be helpful to others who might be starting or living a criminal lifestyle.
“I wish I could take it all back,” he added, “not because I’m locked up, but because I hurt people and I affected people — the bad choices that I made, the people that I chose to hang around with.”
Brown had these words of advice for anyone considering straying off the straight and narrow.
“Think again,” he said. “Think again what lies before you. Because what could lie before you is this here.
“Think of your family. Think of those you love. Think about those opportunities that you may miss out on if you put yourself in that situation.”
But Brown’s final thoughts were on a happier note.
“Donnelly has been an experience,” he said. “It has!”
Malek Brown Jr. (left) and Simon Angilda Jr. both admire their diplomas from Donnelly College, earned through the Donnelly Prison Program at the Lansing Correctional Facility.
From left, Ahmad Rayton, Laurence Elnicki, Malek Brown Jr. and Simon Angilda Jr. listen as Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann addresses them during the commencement ceremony for the class of 2024 Donnelly Prison Program graduates on May 22.
Waiting for the security guard on the other side to open the door, Archbishop Naumann and John Hewitt, Donnelly Prison Program director, converse before the next security checkpoint.
Msgr. Stuart Swetland, president of Donnelly College, talks with Malek Brown Jr. after the graduation ceremony.