07-01-16 Vol. 38 No. 1 by The Leaven

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 38, NO. 1 | JULY 1, 2016

LEAVEN PHOTO BY MARC ANDERSON

Father Henry Wertin, pastor of St. Joseph Church in Grand Junction, Colorado, greets his godmother Bertha Uhlrig (center), of Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish in Topeka, and her daughter Pattie Uhlrig after the first Mass he celebrated at his home parish of St. Joseph Church in Wathena on May 21.

A FATHER TWICE

Husband, father and grandfather ordained to the priesthood By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

ATHENA — Lots of Catholic boys consider the priesthood before meeting the loves of their lives and settling down to a different vocation. Very few get a chance at both. The road that led 63-year-old Henry Wertin, a native son of St. Joseph Church in Wathena, to both marriage and the priesthood was definitely an unusual one. The fact that two of his sons had already been ordained makes the story one for the record books. Father Wertin, who was ordained Feb. 5 to the priesthood for the Diocese of Pueblo, Colorado, sat down with The Leaven to tell that story when he returned to his home parish May 21 to celebrate Mass for the first time since his ordination.

“He’s the man” Growing up, young Henry Wertin’s life revolved around his parish — but even more so, its patron, St. Joseph. Born Jan. 18, 1953, at St. Joseph Hospital, Wertin was baptized at St. Joseph Parish and attended St. Joseph Grade School — located on St. Joseph Street. While at Mass, the boy often gazed at the stained-glass window depicting the death of St. Joseph. “He’s the man,” said Father Wertin. The parish was the focus of his family’s life. “I remember when my grandmother would baby-sit me while my mother (Agnes Wertin, still a member of the parish) was in the hospital delivering another sibling. This was before I was old enough to go to school. “My grandmother and I, hand in hand, would walk up the hill to the church to attend daily Mass,” he said.

“I also have precious memories of families from the church getting together with us on Sunday at each other’s houses for the whole day,” he added. Wertin, taught by Benedictine Sisters at St. Joseph Grade School, was already considering a vocation to the priesthood in eighth grade, and, after graduation, headed off to Savior of the World Seminary in Kansas City, Kansas. It was only after his graduation from there in 1971 that his life took an unexpected turn. While at Benedictine College in Atchison, a place he chose for the opportunity to pursue monastic life at nearby St. Benedict’s Abbey, he met a young woman named Mary Beth Cavanagh. The two married in 1973. In 1976, Wertin graduated from Cleveland Chiropractic College and established an office in Lamar, Colorado, where his wife had grown up. Wertin’s marriage was every bit the vocation his later priesthood would be. “God has always been a part of my life,” he said. “And prayer and the church have kept my relationship with him alive.” His son Mark saw plenty evidence of that growing up. “Dad’s always been a man of prayer,” he said. Whether it’s been as a member of the Knights of Columbus or his attendance at daily Mass, his

St. Joseph often played a part in Father Henry Wertin’s life. While attending Mass as a boy, he would often gaze at this window depicting the death of St. Joseph. dad never failed to serve. Sunday Mass, according to Mark, was an absolute priority. He and his brother Henry, along with their sister Colleen Auchenbach, shared that prayer was an integral part of their faith formation. >> See CALL on page 10

JULY 1, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

CALENDAR

ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN July 1 Serra International convention adoration and Benediction — St. Louis July 3 Father Michael Hermes’ 25th anniversary Mass — St. Paul, Olathe July 4 Fortnight for Freedom Mass — Church of the Ascension, Overland Park July 10 Installation of Father Bill Bruning — Queen of the Holy Rosary, Overland Park Baptism of third or more child — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas July 11 “Shepherd’s Voice” recording Graduation ceremony for Basic Theology for Hispanic Leaders program — Blessed Sacrament, Kansas City, Kansas LEAVEN PHOTO BY MOIRA CULLINGS

Floyd Bledsoe, who spent 15 years in prison for a crime he did not commit, shares his story at St. John the Evangelist Church in Lawrence.

Wrongly convicted man preaches forgiveness By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

AWRENCE — When the popular Netflix documentary “Making a Murderer” debuted, viewers were on the edge of their seats imagining how it would feel to be wrongly accused of a serious crime. But Kansas native Floyd Bledsoe didn’t have to. After spending 15 years in prison for a crime he did not commit, Bledsoe was finally exonerated of first-degree murder in December 2015. Now, his heart is full of something most people would never expect — forgiveness. As part of the parish’s Year of Mercy observances, the St. John’s Social Concerns Committee at St. John the Evangelist Church in Lawrence invited Bledsoe and those involved with his case to share his story of heartbreak and triumph at the church on May 21.

Mind over matter In November 1999, at the age of 23, Bledsoe was taken in for what he thought was a routine interview in relation to the murder of his 14-year-old sister-in-law Camille Arfmann. One month later, on Christmas Eve, he found himself still sitting in a county jail cell. The feeling of despair sunk in that evening when he called his family and, without a word, they quickly hung up the phone. Bledsoe, who suddenly found himself falsely convicted and left behind by his own family, felt helpless. “I cried out to God for 45 minutes [after that],” he said. “Finally, I laid back, exhausted. Exhausted because I heard nothing, felt nothing. “And I said, ‘God, there’s supposed to be this silver lining in every dark cloud. . . . But I don’t see anything. . . . Where is my hope, God?’” With a quick glance out his cell window, Bledsoe noticed one star in the distance, which he took as a sign.

What you can do For information about the fight to end the death penalty in Kansas, visit the website at: ksabolition.org. To read about the Catholic Church’s teaching on the death penalty and the U.S. bishops’ campaign to end its use, go online to: usccb.org and type “death penalty” into the search box.

For more information To learn more about Floyd Bledsoe’s case, go online to: innocenceproject. org and search “Floyd Bledsoe.”

“God said [to me], ‘The way is long and it’s dark, but the end will come,’” he said. That end didn’t come for 15 years. “It would be so hard when one’s family basically abandoned you as his did him, and then to recover from that in a way that doesn’t leave a person angry and bitter, but allows them to move on with their life,” said Susan Tabor, chair of the parish’s social concerns committee. But it was the journey along the way, which Bledsoe dubbed as his “desert place,” that taught him how to forgive. “If you’ve ever been a victim, whether great or small,” said Bledsoe, “you know the anger, you know the hurt, you know the bitterness that sits inside of you. “You’re locked in a cell with everybody that ever harmed you, that ever said one unkind thing to you. “Forgiveness is the key that will unlock that door.”

Moved by mercy As an innocent man trapped behind bars, Bledsoe knew mercy was the one thing that could break the chains of resentment. During his time in prison, he not only practiced forgiveness in his heart, but also outside his cell, volunteering for programs like hospice where he befriended the sick and dying. “I didn’t want them to feel alone,” said

Bledsoe. “So many people in prison have nobody.” Donna Schneweis, chair of the Kansas Coalition Against the Death Penalty, was particularly impressed by Bledsoe’s actions. “During his time in the Kansas criminal justice system, Mr. Bledsoe took the opportunity to avail himself through a number of opportunities within the system that have had a significant impact on his life and how he handled his years in prison,” she said. Bledsoe chose to focus on others rather than his own situation, but he also continued to fight for freedom and held onto the hope that one day it would come. After 15 years of trying, his efforts paid off. Thanks to DNA evidence and a suicide note confession, Bledsoe was at last set free. He now spends his time giving a voice to those still in prison, specifically those who might be innocent and those on death row. “Once you execute somebody, there’s no coming back,” he said. “That life’s gone.” Bledsoe urged all in attendance that problems in the justice system aren’t going to fix themselves. Society needs people willing to stand up to injustice and take action. To outsiders, Bledsoe’s attitude is remarkable. “The average lifespan of somebody who’s wrongfully incarcerated after they’re exonerated runs about five years,” said Alice Craig, supervising attorney at the KU Law Paul E. Wilson Project for Innocence and Post-Conviction Remedies, who worked for nearly a decade on Bledsoe’s case. Bledsoe’s success is almost unheard of, she said. “Floyd’s story is remarkable,” said Nora Murphy, another member of the social concerns committee. But his mistaken conviction is all too common. “And that’s the tragedy,” she said. “I hope this is a seed kernel for future growth of this kind of movement where people reject the death penalty.”

July 12 Healing service — Sacred Heart, Emporia July 14 Johnson County Serra Club’s annual seminarian Mass and barbecue — Prince of Peace, Olathe

ARCHBISHOP KELEHER July 9 Mass — St. Sebastian, Florida July 10 Mass — St. Sebastian, Florida

Parody video showcases Santa Marta seniors

LATHE — Justin Timberlake’s new song, “Can’t Stop the Feeling,” has everyone out of their seats dancing, including the residents at Santa Marta retirement community here. The residents and staff members created a parody video featuring some pretty sweet dance moves that mirror Timberlake’s own music video. In just under five minutes, the video showcases the vibrant lifestyle at Santa Marta, a Catholic-sponsored continuum of care community. It might just inspire you to get up and dance, too. To view the parody video, go to The Leaven’s website at: www.the leaven.org and look for “Can’t Stop the Feeling” or “like” The Leaven Newspaper on Facebook, where it is also posted. To view the real music video, visit youtube. com and search ‘Can’t Stop the Feeling! by Justin Timberlake.’

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JULY 1, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

A SETBACK FOR LIFE

Supreme Court strikes down regulations on Texas abortion clinics By Carol Zimmermann Catholic News Service

ASHINGTON (CNS) — In a 5-3 vote June 27, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down restrictions on Texas abortion clinics that required them to comply with standards of ambulatory surgical centers and required their doctors to have admitting privileges at local hospitals. The case, Whole Woman’s Health v. Hellerstedt, challenged a 2013 state law, H.B. 2, placing the requirements on the state’s abortion clinics. Opponents of the law claimed the requirements were aimed at closing abortion clinics. But the state and many pro-life advocates maintained that the law protected women’s health. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and other religious groups submitted a joint friend of the court brief in the case supporting the Texas law, which was similar to other state laws regulating abortion clinics across the country. Justice Stephen Breyer, who wrote the opinion, said the restrictions on the clinics “provide few if any health benefits for women, pose a substantial obstacle to women seeking abortions and constitute an ‘undue burden’ on their constitutional right to do so.” Reaction to the court’s ruling was immediate. Those in favor of the regulations said the court’s opinion put women at risk and those opposed to the state law called it a major victory. “The court has rejected a commonsense law protecting women from abortion facilities that put profits above patient safety,” said Deirdre McQuade, assistant director for pro-life communications at the USCCB’s Secretariat of Pro-Life Activities. She said the Texas law “simply

CNS PHOTO/MICHAEL REYNOLDS, EPA

Pro-life supporters pray at the steps of the U.S. Supreme Court June 27 during protests in Washington. In a 5-3 vote that day, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down restrictions on Texas abortion clinics that required them to comply with standards of ambulatory surgical centers and required their doctors to have admitting privileges at local hospitals. required abortion facilities to meet the same health and safety standards as other ambulatory surgical centers.” McQuade, in a statement issued after the ruling, also said: “Abortion claims the lives of unborn children, and too often endangers their mothers as well. This ruling contradicts the consensus among medical groups that such measures protect women’s lives.” The Texas bishops similarly said the ruling “puts women at grave risk” and said the purpose of the state regulations was to ensure women’s safety, noting: “their lives are just as precious as those of their children.” Dissenting votes in the case were from Chief Justice John Roberts and Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito Jr. Thomas wrote that the court’s deci-

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“THE COURT HAS REJECTED A COMMON-SENSE LAW PROTECTING WOMEN FROM ABORTION FACILITIES THAT PUT PROFITS ABOVE PATIENT SAFETY.”

Deirdre McQuade, assistant director for pro-life communications at the USCCB’s Secretariat of Pro-Life Activities

sion “simultaneously transformed judicially created rights like the right to abortion into preferred constitutional

rights, while disfavoring many of the rights actually enumerated in the Constitution.” He added that the Constitution “renounces the notion that some constitutional rights are more equal than others. . . . A law either infringes a constitutional right, or not; there is no room for the judiciary to invent tolerable degrees of encroachment.” The U.S. Supreme Court’s use of the words “undue burden” echoes a phrase used in 1992 ruling in Planned Parenthood v. Casey, in which it upheld provisions in Pennsylvania law requiring parental consent for minors, a 24-hour waiting period before an abortion, filing of detailed reports about each abortion and distribution of information about alternatives to abortion. It struck down a requirement that married women need to notify their husbands before having an abortion. In essence, the court said a state may enact abortion regulations that do not pose an “undue burden’’ on pregnant women. In the March 2 oral arguments in the Texas abortion clinics case the phrase was used to promote women’s access to available clinics. Opponents of the state regulations said the restrictions were aimed at stopping abortions, because they forced clinics to close, which in turn, they said, would put an undue burden on women seeking abortions who would have to travel farther to find an available clinic. In the years since the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision legalizing abortion, the court has shown “extreme hostility to regulation of abortion as a medical procedure,” said Carol Tobias, president of the National Right to Life committee, which submitted a friend of the court brief in the Texas case. She said the court turned a corner its 1992 Casey >> See “CRITICS” on page 4

Archbishop reacts to Supreme Court decision

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — In an interview June 27 with local media, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann told reporters that the Supreme Court’s decision Monday on Whole Woman’s Health v. Hellerstedt shows “how radicalized our court has become.” He expressed dismay at the 5-3 decision that failed to uphold the Texas law requiring abortion clinics to comply with standards of ambulatory surgical centers and require their doctors to have admitting privileges at local hospitals. And he said he worries not only about the unborn babies who are victims of the abortions conducted at these clinics, but about the health and welfare of the women who undergo the abortions. “This is very sad,” said the archbishop, “that the court didn’t

LEAVEN PHOTO BY TODD HABIGER

Archbishop Naumann gives an interview to KSHB Action 41 News following the Supreme Court’s decision that struck down a Texas abortion law. at least see that the health of women should be protected to the maximum degree that we can.

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

“The whole presupposition to Roe v. Wade was the [protection of the] health of

women,” the archbishop continued, “and yet we know we’ve had examples here in Kansas of atrocious conditions in abortion clinics.” Even more horrible conditions have since been uncovered in abortion clinics in other parts of the country, he said, since local media reported on the clinics here. Archbishop Naumann went on to describe a book written by former abortion clinic employee Abby Johnson [“The Walls Are Talking: Former Abortion Clinic Workers Tell Their Stories”], which details the shocking conditions in which they witnessed abortions being performed. The archbishop said he does not yet know what local impact the decision might have. “We do have a Kansas law that could be affected by this,”

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

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org

Reporter Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

Advertising Coordinator Beth Blankenship beth.blankenship@theleaven.org

said the archbishop, “and we’ll have to see. It’s uncertain how they’re going to interpret this decision relative to other types of laws that try to protect women’s health. We’re going to continue to do everything we can to protect children and protect women.” But when asked whether this setback was going to stall pro-life efforts, he was adamant. “It can’t,” he said. “We can’t ever give up in terms of trying to protect children and to care for women.” “I think the takeaway for most people,” Archbishop Naumann concluded, “is we really have to [recognize how] our judges more and more have inserted themselves into creating public policy, and so who is on the court is very important.”

Published weekly September through May, excepting the Friday the week after Thanksgiving, and the Friday after Christmas; biweekly June through August. Address communications to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Phone: (913) 721-1570; fax: (913) 721-5276; or e-mail at: sub@theleaven.com. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. For change of address, provide old and new address and parish. Subscriptions $21/year. Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.

JULY 1, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Those affected by abuse invited to service Catholic community of Emporia asked to join in prayer for healing By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — An abuse survivor didn’t know what to expect at the archdiocesan healing service held at Good Shepherd Parish in Shawnee this past April. But what she found pleased her. “It was a good experience, primarily because of the fellowship afterward,” she said. This fellowship is vital, said Jan Saylor, reports investigator for the archdiocesan office of child and youth protection. “It makes sense, because many times the victims feel alone,” said Saylor, who attended the service. The second of the three scheduled archdiocesan healing services for anyone who has been affected by any sort of abuse or harm, and also for their family and friends, will be held at 7 p.m. on July 12 at Sacred Heart Parish, 101 Cottonwood, Emporia. The p r e s i d er will be Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann.

Appointments Father John A. Riley, chancellor, reports the following appointments made by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann: Father Lawrence Albertson, from pastor, Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish, Bucyrus-Wea, to retirement from parish leadership, effective July 1. Msgr. Vince Krische, from offering sacramental assistance at Corpus Christi Parish, Lawrence, to parochial administrator, Holy Family Parish, Eudora, effective June 25. Father Gary Pennings, from parochial administrator to pastor, Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish, BucyrusWea, effective July 11.

But it is not only those directly impacted in some way that are encouraged to attend. Rather, the entire Catholic community of Emporia is invited to be a support and witness, and to join in the prayer for healing. Archbishop Naumann spoke very strongly at the April service and is expected to do so again during the July 12 service. “I was very moved and helped by the archbishop’s words,” said an abuse survivor. “I am very grateful for the archbishop’s response and words. Many of us are still dealing with our own issues of shame, but each time I encounter him and others who have helped, it truly gives me a closer feeling to Our Lord.” It’s important that the church reaches out to anyone who has been affected by sexual or other kinds of abuse, especially abuse perpetrated by someone representing the church. “A healing service is an easy way for someone who wants to be veiled in anonymity to come to a very nonthreatening service that could be the catalyst for their healing process,” said Saylor. “But it is not just important for the victim, ” said Michael Podrebarac, Emporia native and consultant in the office of liturgy and sacramental life. “Because such persons have suffered greatly and unjustly,” he said, “the church has a sacred duty to respond with gifts of hope and healing, not only when clergy and others have been perpetra-

tors of abuse, but when anyone has abused or harmed another.” Saylor agreed. “It is a way for Archbishop Naumann to publicly show his commitment to protecting children and vulnerable adults,” she continued. “It shows unity and commitment by the entire Catholic community. . . . It is especially important for the victims, who may still be hurting and feel blamed or unheard. Many [survivors] have not stepped foot in a church since their abuse occurred.” But is there healing? “I didn’t experience anything at this service that was dramatic or healing, but I expect as I attend more [services] that will come with time,” said an abuse survivor. “I think true healing is a process,” said Saylor. “The victim must get past the anger, shame and hurt to move toward peace through forgiveness, both for themselves and the perpetrator.” “Letting go of the anger, trusting again, can be long and arduous,” she continued. “Apologizing, letting the [survivor] know it was not their fault can be a beginning for the victim to find healing.” The third and final healing service will be held at 7 p.m. on Nov. 7 at Christ the King Parish, 5973 S.W. 25th, Topeka. “I think that most people would get the most out of [the healing services] if they do not come alone,” said an abuse survivor. “In Veronica’s Veil it talks a lot about the value of feeling accepted and welcomed by members of the faith community in general, and not just the clergy. I will bring a friend to the next one and hope to have family along when it is done in Topeka.” For information or questions, contact Maura Dodson, of the archdiocesan safe environment office, at (913) 647-0367 or send an email to: mdodson@archkck. org.

Ward’s REACH program reaps long-term benefits

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Ten years ago, David Anderson, a member of the Rotary Club of Leawood, connected with Bishop Ward High School here to create a partnership that would help first-generation college students navigate the waters of college preparation. Soon, Rotary Encouraging Academic Collegiate Help (REACH) was born at Bishop Ward. “We wanted another way to not just get students ready for graduation, but to ensure they are prepared for college and life beyond,” said Anderson, REACH program leader. Leawood Rotary members are paired with a junior or senior student and serve as a mentor to help them realize their potential and prepare them for college — academically, financially and socially. They meet once a month and follow a curriculum that has evolved over the years and been developed by a group of committed volunteers. “A lot of these students will be firstgeneration college students, and one of the real powers of this program is the

ability to help students, as well as parents, understand the value of college and how to navigate and prepare for it,” said Anderson. This program walks through the nuances of completing a FAFSA form, ACT preparation classes, discussions on picking the right college, field trips to college fairs and writing a resume. The end-of-year REACH banquet is a special time for senior students as they compete for a chance to win a four-year college scholarship worth $6,000 per student. As long as they maintain a certain number of credit hours with a certain GPA, they will continue receiving the support throughout college. This year seniors who won were Cheyenne SilverCloud, attending Missouri State University; Taylor Singleton, attending Rockhurst University; and Rajanee Gardner, attending Benedictine College. “I am so glad that I got to be a part of REACH. I feel that it truly helped and guided me in the right direction so I can accomplish my goals,” said scholarship winner Gardner.

Critics say ruling puts women at risk >> Continued from page 1 decision by rejecting the idea of being “the country’s ex officio medical board” but it “reversed course” with the Texas decision by deciding it knew “better than representatives duly elected by the people of the United States.” Jocelyn Floyd, an attorney with the Thomas More Society, a national public interest law firm based in Chicago that also filed a friend of the court brief in this case, disagreed with the court’s view that the clinic regulations were “unnecessary.” Here in Illinois, she said: “We’ve seen all too well what disastrous consequences come from holding abortion providers to lower standards than other medical providers — contamination, dirty facilities, patient injury, and even death.” Rep. Chris Smith, R-New Jersey, a co-chairman of the congressional ProLife Caucus, similarly said the court’s decision “shields the abortion industry from accountability and minimal medical standards.” He said abortion providers “should not get a free pass on common-sense safety standards.” The Texas law requiring compliance by clinics and abortion providers had forced many of the state’s abortion clinics to close leaving seven clinics opened, primarily in major cities. After the June 27 ruling, many of them are expected to reopen. “The court’s decision failed to uphold a higher standard of care for women terminating a pregnancy,” said Ingrid Delgado, the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops’ associate for respect life/social concerns. She called the ruling “deeply disappointing” but also noted that Florida has a similar law but its provisions are “distinct in key ways.” Delgado said Florida makes a similar requirement that abortion facilities be within 30 minutes by emergency transport vehicle. All existing abortion facilities in Florida meet this requirement. Some provisions of the Florida law are being challenged in federal court, but not the requirement on admitting privileges, she said. Those being challenged pertain to public funding of abortion providers, definitions of trimesters and records review threshold, she said. American Life League president Judie Brown said: “This Supreme Court decision serves as a blaring wake-up call to the ‘mainstream’ pro-life movement that dinking and dithering over regulating the killing can never serve as a replacement for the fundamental battle that is not being fought — the battle for the recognition that every innocent pre-born human being is a unique person from the moment of his biological beginning.” “This case was about sensible laws designed to protect women in the wake of the Gosnell horrors; it should have been common ground for both sides of the issue,” said Maureen Ferguson, senior policy adviser for the Catholic Association Dr. Kermit Gosnell in May 2013 was found guilty of murder in the deaths of three babies born alive during abortions in his Philadelphia clinic. “This ruling won’t stop us from continuing to work to protect all American lives, and we won’t stop until we’ve won,” Ferguson said.

JULY 1, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Rural Catholics lend helping hand to Topeka parish By Carolyn Kaberline Special to The Leaven

OPEKA — When you think of parishes helping other parishes, big parishes helping smaller ones comes first to mind. But those roles were reversed when the good folks of Father Barry Clayton’s parishes in Sabetha, Wetmore and Fidelity caught up on their own parish grounds work and decided to take their show on the road. “As part of the Year of Mercy, the archbishop suggested we make a partnership with another parish,” explained Father Barry Clayton, pastor of Sacred Heart Church in Sabetha, St. James Church in Wetmore and St. Augustine Church in Fidelity. “He suggested one of the Kansas City parishes,” he said, “but we thought [Mater Dei Parish in Topeka] would be a good fit.” “Father Barry contacted me and wanted to know if there was something they could do for us,” said Father John Pilcher, pastor of Mater Dei. “We’re a struggling parish, so it has been great getting to know these people and how they’ve given of themselves to do this.” When Father Pilcher accepted the offer of help, Father Clayton got right to work. “We have a lot of skilled workers,” he said. “We talked about a parish workday, and the parish council liked the idea.” A second collection in each of the three parishes raised $1,000. And with a load of mulch thrown in, the workday was set for May 14. From 8:30 a.m. to almost 5 p.m., the visiting crew was weeding, trimming, planting and mulching. “Almost everything on the list was done,” reported Nancy Cina of Mater Dei, co-coordinator of the workday. “We wanted to do a little cleaning up at [the] Assumption [site] and a couple of yards on Clay [Street] belonging to the parish, but I think the day went great. I think the people really enjoyed it.” “It was a mutually enriching experience,” said Father Clayton. “We got to know another parish and each other better. The three parishes work together already, so it was kind of natural to reach out to this parish.”

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LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE MCSORLEY

From left, Marsha Olberding, Father John Pilcher, Nancy Cina, Ian Mead, Scarlett Fisher-Herreman, Father Barry Clayton and Brandon Eakes work to beautify the grounds of Mater Dei Parish in Topeka. Parishioners from Father Clayton’s parishes in Sabetha, Wetmore and Fidelity traveled to Topeka to help Mater Dei with its parish cleanup.

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“IT WAS A MUTUALLY ENRICHING EXPERIENCE. WE GOT TO KNOW ANOTHER PARISH AND EACH OTHER BETTER.” Father Barry Clayton Why spend a day doing yard work at a parish more than 60 miles away? “I like to work outdoors,” said Carol Nolte of Sabetha. “We do a lot of work around our parish in Sabetha, so this seemed the thing to do.” Another Sabetha parishioner,

Marsha Olberding, agreed. And she’s always curious to see what other people do. “I could do that here and visit as well,” she said. “I’m retired and have all my own gardening done.” “It seemed like a good mission,” said Greg Renyer, also of Sabetha. “I don’t really get a chance to go do much mission work, so this is a chance to do it physically instead of monetarily.” His son Cameron, a junior at Sabetha High School, liked how it gave him the chance “to see what other parishes are like and to meet new people.” “I feel it’s important to participate in parish activities — especially when another parish is coming,” said Mimi Gardner of Mater Dei, who spent some of the morning cooking for the

group. “I enjoyed the interaction and visiting about how we got to where we are.” “We have a very pretty church, so any chance to clean it up is good,” said Andrea Hillebert of Mater Dei. “I also learned so much about transplanting plants and foliage from the other groups.” So is a reciprocal visit on the schedule? “We asked if [the parishes up north] needed help,” said Cina, but were told that they didn’t at the time. “We are thinking of something similar to this cleanup day on a regular basis though,” she said. “We have even talked about ‘paying it forward’ and helping another parish.”

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JULY 1, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Sister Audrey Meanor, SCL

EAVENWORTH — Sister Audrey Meanor, 85, a Sister of Charity of Leavenworth, died on June 14 at St. John Hospital here. Audrey Louise Meanor was born on June 17, 1930, in Herington, one of two children of John W. and Helen C. (Bittner) Meanor. She attended St. John Grade School, Herington, and Bishop Ward High School in Kansas City, Kansas. She entered the religious community of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth on Aug. 19, 1948, and, as Sister Mary Alphonsus Meanor, made her profession of vows on August 15, 1950. She later returned to her baptismal name. Sister Audrey received a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Saint Mary, Leavenworth. She served as an elementary school teacher, substitute teacher and tutor for more than 50 years. Sister Audrey taught at Most Pure Heart of Mary School in Topeka for 36 years, and trained and scheduled altar servers as well as serving on the parish liturgy committee for 34 years. She retired to the motherhouse in 2010.

Sister Rose Anthony Perko, SCL

EAVENWORTH — Sister Rose Anthony Perko, 82, a Sister of Charity of Leavenworth, died on June 16 at the motherhouse here. Jacquelyn Perko was born on Oct. 21, 1933, in Denver, one of 11 children of Theodore Lawrence and Bonnie Marie (Porter) Perko. She graduated from Annunciation Grade and High School in Denver. She entered the religious community of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth on Feb. 11, 1953, and, as Sister Rose Anthony, made her profession of vows on Feb. 22, 1955. Sister Rose Anthony received a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Saint Mary College, Leavenworth. She served in elementary and high schools in the West and Midwest for many years. She also worked for the Archdiocesan Housing Committee in Denver as a purchasing agent. Upon her return to the motherhouse, she was appointed coordinator of the transportation office. Utilizing her knowledge and experience with cars, she provided a valuable service to the community.

TOOLS FOR FAMILIES

Growing as Disciples of Jesus

WEB EXCLUSIVE

Lunch notes There’s a creative opportunity waiting on every brown bag lunch. Encouraging words or silly stick figure sketches can be surprisingly meaningful in reminding our kids that they are loved and thought of. Give it a try: • Grab a Sharpie • Write a note on a sandwich/snack bag • Draw on or design the outside of the paper bag Who wouldn’t blush upon finding a hand-drawn heart when reaching for their favorite homemade PB&J? — By Ray Martin

ARTWORK BY NEILSON CARLIN, 2015

Paul and Kathy Bastasch, members of Holy Cross Parish, Overland Park, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on June 11 with a Mass and blessing at Holy Cross. The couple was married on June 11, 1966, at Queen of Angels Church, Port Angeles, Washington. Their children are: Elizabeth, Michael and Stephen. They also have one grandchild and two great-grandchildren. Cheryl (Schmidtberger) and Lloyd Hammerschmidt, members of Corpus Christi Parish, Lawrence, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a Mass, dinner and dance on April 30 at Corpus Christi with family and friends. The event was hosted by their children: Dawn Hill, Shane Hammerschmidt and Dain Hammerschmidt. They also have nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. The couple was married in the Basilica of St. Fidelis, Victoria, on April 30, 1966. Joel and Lupe (Mendoza) Gutierrez, members of Sacred H e a r t Parish, Emporia, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on June 25 with an open house. The couple was married on June 23, 1956, at St. Catherine Church, Emporia. Their children are: Joel Gutierrez Jr., Wichita; and Christine Kolmer, Emporia. They also have five grandchildren and two great-grandsons. Congratulations may be sent to the couple at: 25 S. Arundel St., Emporia, KS 66801.

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Annette (Janusz) and Larry Staszkiewicz, members of Prince of Peace Parish, Olathe, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on June 18. The couple was married on June 18, 1966, at Transfiguration Church, Chicago. The groom’s uncle, Father Raymond Kupinski, was the celebrant. They renewed their vows at the archdiocesan golden wedding anniversary Mass on June 5. Their children are: Lisa Venner, Andrew Staszkiewicz, Alaina Talley, and Adam Staszkiewicz. They also have 11 grandchildren. Marge (Schumacher) and Jack Gladb a c h , members of Holy Tr i n i ty Parish, Lenexa, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on July 3 at the 10 a.m. Mass at St. Agnes Church, Roeland Park. Marge’s brother, Father Joe Schumacher, will be the Mass celebrant. The couple was married on July 7, 1956, at St. Vincent Church, Kansas City, Missouri. The couple has nine children: Joe Gladbach, Kathleen Norkus, Steve Gladbach (deceased), Tim Gladbach, Ann Graham, John Gladbach, Peggy Louree, Bill Gladbach and Jerry Gladbach. They also have 23 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

ANNIVERSARY POLICY

• The Leaven prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th notices. Send notices to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, attn: anniversaries; or send an email to: todd.habiger@ theleaven.org.

CHURCH OF THE WEEK St. Mary - St. Anthony, Kansas City, Kansas Address: 615 N. 7th, 66101 Phone: (913) 371-1408 Administrator: Father Joseph Arsenault, SSA Mass Times: Saturday, 4 p.m.; Sunday, 7:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. (en español)

Video

A video tour of this church is available online at: www.theleaven.org.

More photos of this church can be seen online at: www.theleaven.org.

‘Walking Toward Eternity’ seminar set for Aug. 1

ANSAS CITY, Mo. — Jeff Cavins, the creator of The Great Adventure Catholic Bible Study program and an internationally known speaker, author and Bible study reader, will give a daylong seminar. Entitled “Walking Toward Eternity: Making Choices for Today,” it will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Aug. 20 in the Woolridge Center of St. Therese North Parish here, located at 7207 N.W. Highway 9. Early registration by Aug. 1 is $35. Registration after Aug. 1 is $45. Registration includes lunch, a light breakfast and the cost of seminar materials, including a book by Dr. Tim Gray. To register, call Jerri at (816) 714-2326; send an email to: dowdy@diocesekcsj.org; or register online at: kcsjcatholic.org/cavins. For more information, call (816) 7142308 or send an email to: sasso@diocese kcsj.org. This event is presented by the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph office of evangelization and catechesis.

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SWEET VICTORY

For two years, the priests of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas came up short against their counterparts from the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph in the annual Pitching for Priests softball game. On June 19, the archdiocesan team got their revenge with a 22-8 thumping of their rivals. — Story by Moira Cullings

VICTORY SHOWER

CHAMPS

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE MCSORLEY

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann proudly displays the Pitching for Priests traveling trophy following the archdiocese’s first-ever victory over the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Father Adam Wilczak, left, and Father Nick Blaha, right, douse Father Scott Wallisch in cold water following the archdiocese’s 22-8 victory. Father Wallisch was named the game’s MVP.

DUGOUT CREW

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE MCSORLEY

Benedictine Brother Leven Harton, Father Pat Sullivan, Father Shawn Tunink and Father Nick Blaha catch the action from the dugout.

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — As vocation director for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Father Scott Wa l l i s c h hardly goes a day without talking about his Redeemer. But that was not the kind of redemption he was thinking of June 19 at the third annual Pitching for Priests event at Community America Park in Kansas City, Kansas. There, against a team of priests from the Diocese of Kansas City - St. Joseph that had defeated the team from the archdiocese two years running, he pitched — and coached — a 22-8 walloping of their rivals.

“I’ve dreamed about this for two-and-ahalf years now, and this day is finally here,” said Father Wallisch, who was also the game’s MVP. “We had our best team out there,” he said. “Everybody believed in the system, and they really bought into what we were trying to do out there.” The priests from the Kansas side came out like a powerhouse against the priests from the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joe, scoring five runs in the first inning and were ahead by 11-2 after the top of the third. “We had a lot of fun and put the pressure on early, so that was great,” said Father Andrew Strobl, outgoing pastor of Holy Name Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, and team catcher. Unlike the past two years, the team held onto its lead with solid defense and >> See “REDEMPTION” on the next page

Redemption comes after two years of frustration >> Continued from previous page came out triumphant for the first time in the event’s history with a score of 22-8 after six innings of play. But in the eyes of the priests, the mission of the event went beyond achieving a long-desired victory. Not only did the event raise nearly $30,000 to benefit seminarians from both dioceses, but it also brought Kansas City Catholics together to see their priests in a new light. “I never know if us playing softball or basketball inspires vocations, but what’s cool is [the fans] see that we’re real guys,” said Father Strobl. “We do the same things and we grew up in the same way they did.” The priests also look forward to seeing the faces of parishioners and people they’ve served over the years in the crowd, said Father Strobl. The nearly 2,200 in attendance kept the ballpark buzzing with energy, despite the sweltering heat. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann and Msgr. Mike Mullen, pastor St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, were particular fan favorites, and the crowd erupted in cheers at each of their hits. (Msgr. Mullen went 3 for 3.) The enthusiastic crowd support, paired with a victory that had been long in coming, left Father Nick Blaha, chaplain at Emporia State University’s Didde Catholic Campus Center and team second baseman, at a temporary loss for words. “The euphoria is hard to describe,” he said. “But I think our team pulled together a lot better and our practices were more consistent. We got in the right mindset, the right zone,” he added. Accustomed to gathering primarily only for meetings or solemn occasions, it was clear the priests enjoyed coming together in an informal, competitive setting. “It’s fun to be out here with them relating in a different way than we normally do,” said Father Blaha. “It’s not a chance we have very often.” But “Coach” Wallisch hadn’t yet had time to appreciate the bonding opportunity. He was still savoring the win. “When your team buys into your vision,” he said simply, “it can be beautiful.”

D-FENCE

GOOD ADVICE

Archdiocesan coach Father Anthony Ouellette shouts instructions to the base runner during the archdiocese’s 22-8 rout of the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph on June 19. A pregame injury forced Father Ouellette from the starting lineup to a coaching position.

GOING LIVE

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE MCSORLEY

Father Shawn Tunink interviews a young fan on Facebook Live following the archdiocesan win. Father Tunink did a postgame wrap-up that his Facebook followers could view in real time.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE MCSORLEY

Father Dan Morris makes a nice scoop and throw to first baseman Father Matthew Nagle. The archdiocesan defense was spectacular, holding the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph to two runs though the first three innings.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

SCOTTY HUSTLE

Father Scott Wallisch slides in safely to second base ahead of a diving Father Paul Sheller, OSB, as Father Kevin Drew watches. Father Wallisch was a perfect 3 for 3 on the day.

SUPERFAN

Young Liam Mooradian of St. Joseph Parish in Topeka shows his support for his favorite priest, Father Mitchel Zimmerman, outgoing pastor of Christ the King Parish in Topeka. Father Zimmerman will take over as director of the St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center on July 1.

PAT THE BAT

Father Pat Sullivan waits on the pitch in the third annual Pitching for Priests game at Community America Ballpark in Kansas City, Kansas. Playing in his first Pitching for Priests game, Father Pat went 2 for 3 at the plate. LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

GOLD GLOVE

Father Mitchel Zimmerman plays flawless defense for the archdiocese, holding Kansas City-St. Joseph scoreless in the first inning.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

LOCAL NEWS

JULY 1, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Nationals-bound ruggers keep first things first By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — For Overland Park’s St. Thomas Aquinas High School rugby coach Tim Kluempers, the moment his team won the Kansas state championship was made even sweeter by what it did next. On May 14, just one week after the big win and when they could have been training for nationals, his team members spent their Saturday landscaping the grounds around Holy Name Church in Kansas City, Kansas. “They could have said, ‘Hey, we won our state championship, we’re getting ready for nationals,’” The team beat the said Father Kansas City Cougars Andrew 57-12 in the state Strobl, final and finished the pastor at season at 25-4. Holy Name. “But they were super supportive, and their coach was incredibly supportive as well.” Father Strobl is a former chaplain of Aquinas and saw several of these players throughout their high school careers, making this service project even more unique. “He really had a big impact on these kids’ lives because he’s just such a good, vibrant priest,” said Rosco Halsey, whose son Josh is one of two team captains. “This was a great thing for these boys because they really feel like they had a great bit of gratitude for all Father Andrew had done for them,” he added. Not only did the team show up ready to help Father Strobl, but they were eager to go above and beyond to beautify the parish area as much as possible. Their work included trimming trees, cutting the lawn, laying mulch, planting flowers, adding rock beds, pulling vines and repairing basketball goals. “It is part of Saints rugby to give back to the community,” said recent Aquinas graduate Camren Duff. “It is a bonding activity and just part of what we do.” For team captain and recent graduate Josh Halsey, completing a project like this before the national tournament was incredibly meaningful.

St. Thomas Aquinas rugby

LEAVEN PHOTOS BY JOE MCSORLEY

Father Andrew Strobl, outgoing pastor of Holy Name Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, directs Colin Connor, right, and the rest of the St. Thomas Aquinas High School rugby team toward an area around Holy Name he wants landscaped. A week after winning the rugby state championship, the team spent the day landscaping the grounds at Holy Name. Landon Delaney, left, gets ready to place a wooden cross as soon as Lee Davis finishes digging the hole. “Although some of the boys may have been a little beat up and tired, we all came out and did a great thing for the community,” he said. “We all enjoyed doing it,” he added. “And whenever this team gets the opportunity to help someone in need, we do our best to get done what needs to be done.” Kluempers, who started Aquinas’ rugby team 10 years ago, is not only proud of his team’s accomplishment on the field, but out in the world as well. “It’s very rewarding when you see the boys grow,” he said. “We’re teaching them rugby, but ultimately we’re trying to teach them to be good young men and understand giving back and what it takes to be a good citizen.” Kluempers has made volunteer work a focal point of the rugby pro-

gram, organizing a variety of projects for the boys each fall and spring. Holy Name principal Amanda Vega-Mavec, for one, was glad of it. “[My] students definitely noticed it and were grateful that the rugby team took the time out of their weekend to come do this for us,” she said. “When I asked some of the students how they felt, one said it made her feel happy to see it all and know that another group did it for them,” she continued.

“It is a great feeling to know that the students in our archdiocese are always so willing to give back,” she added. The rugby team, energized by their work at Holy Name, traveled to the national tournament in Charlotte, North Carolina, on May 19-20, where they placed fifth in the country. Father Strobl is proud of the athletes’ accomplishments both on and off the field. “They don’t just talk about doing the right thing,” he said. “They do it.”

Call to second vocation culminates in ordination >> Continued from page 1 Grace before meals, bedtime prayers and family rosaries were important, but equally important to Henry Wertin were spontaneous prayers offered whenever they heard ambulance sirens or those offered after talking with their mom while she was preparing a meal in the kitchen. Mark, Henry and Colleen — all who now live in the archdiocese — said prayer was just a natural part of their family. And they were not surprised, they said, when their father, with their mother’s support, made the decision to pursue the permanent diaconate. “I used to go to daily Mass in Lamar, Colorado, and we had a wonderful priest,” recalled Father Wertin. “His name was Msgr. Holland, and we would go out to breakfast after Mass.”

When Msgr. Holland learned that his bishop was planning to start a permanent diaconate in the diocese, he invited Wertin to consider applying. Ordained in 2000, Deacon Wertin spent four years witnessing marriages, baptizing children and adults, and preaching. He planned to continue that way indefinitely. “That plan failed in favor of God’s plan,” Deacon Wertin wrote in an account of his vocation.

The road less traveled In June 2004, after 31 years of marriage, Mary Beth Wertin died as the result of a car accident. In the ensuing years, the widower devoted himself to raising the youngest five of his 10 children.

But by 2013, with his children safely launched, the deacon was being encouraged — and drawn — beyond the permanent diaconate. He started considering the priesthood. His two sons Matthew and Carl, were already priests for the Diocese of Pueblo. “You feel called from the outside and called from the inside,” he said. Eventually, he made formal application to the diocese and was accepted to study at Sacred Heart Seminary in Wisconsin, a seminary geared for the vocations of men ages 35 and older. His ordination to the priesthood on Feb. 9 was a bit unusual. His children attended. His grandchildren attended. And two of his sons — Fathers Carl and Matthew — vested him. But for all its unconventional nature, it was a moment 86-year-old Agnes Wertin relished with great joy.

“I’m so proud to be the mother of a priest and the grandmother of two priests,” she said. “They all three had a calling, and they listened to what God had to say to them.”

The road ahead For his part, though much has changed for Father Henry Wertin, much has remained the same. Mass is still the most important thing in the world to him. “The celebration of the Eucharist itself is life changing,” he said. And he still leans heavily on his longtime patron. Which is only appropriate. Father Wertin’s first assignment is as pastor of a parish in Grand Junction, Colorado, named — of course — St. Joseph’s.

JULY 1, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

WORLD

Retired Pope Benedict says he ‘feels protected’ by Pope Francis VATICAN CITY (CNS) — In his first public address in almost a year, retired Pope Benedict XVI expressed his sincere gratefulness to Pope Francis, saying that his goodness “from the first moment of your election, in every moment of my life here, touches me deeply. More than the beauty found in the Vatican Gardens, your goodness is the place where I live; I feel protected,” Pope Benedict said June 28. Pope Benedict also conveyed his hope that Pope Francis would continue to “lead us all on this path of divine mercy that shows the path of Jesus, to Jesus and to God.” Pope Francis led a Vatican celebration for the 65th anniversary of Pope Benedict’s priestly ordination. The two were joined by the heads of Vatican offices and congregations and several guests, including a delegation from the Orthodox Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople. Those gathered gave Pope Benedict a standing ovation as he made his way into the Clementine Hall and took his seat to the right of the pope’s chair.

CNS PHOTO/PAUL HACKETT, REUTERS

Pro-European Union protesters gather June 28 in London’s Trafalgar Square.

English bishops condemn rise in xenophobic attacks after Brexit vote By Simon Caldwell Catholic News Service

ANCHESTER, England (CNS) — Catholic bishops condemned a sharp rise in xenophobic and racist attacks following Britain’s vote to leave the European Union. Cardinal Vincent Nichols of Westminster said the “upsurge of racism, of hatred toward others is something we must not tolerate.” “We have to say this is simply not acceptable in a humane society, and it should never be provoked or promoted,” he said. The June 28 statement from Cardinal Nichols, president of the Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales, came a day after the National Police Chiefs’ Council revealed that 85 complaints of hate crime were received between June 23, the day of the referendum on United Kingdom membership in the EU, and June 26. The figure represented a 57 percent increase in such offenses in a similar period just a month earlier. Xenophobic incidents included the vandalism of the buildings of a Polish social and cultural association in London and the verbal abuse of foreigners on a tram in Manchester, a film of which was sent to Channel 4 News June 28. Far-right nationalists at a rally in Newcastle June 25 unfurled a banner that demanded: “Stop Immigration, Start Repatriation” and, on June 28, a German woman who has lived in Britain since the 1970s wept as she told LBC London radio that she was too scared to leave her house three days after dog excrement was thrown at her windows. She said: “My neighbors told me that they don’t want me living in this road and that they are not friends

“

“MY NEIGHBORS TOLD ME THAT THEY DON’T WANT ME LIVING IN THIS ROAD AND THAT THEY ARE NOT FRIENDS WITH FOREIGNERS.” with foreigners.” “My friend . . . has a grandson who is 7 and who was beaten up because he has a foreign grandmother,” she added. Britain has been a primary destination for many citizens of poorer EU countries, with annual net migration reaching 330,000 people a year. Many of the migrants to the U.K. are Catholics from Central Europe, Asia and Africa. Bishop Philip Egan of Portsmouth told CNS in a June 28 telephone interview that, in his diocese, there were “huge numbers of immigrants from Poland, Kerala (India), the Philippines and Nigeria.” “I am extremely sad to think of violence against foreign people who are living here,” he said. “There is no justification whatsoever for that. “Many of these immigrants are already beloved members of our communities. They have contributed to local life and organizations,” he said. “Britain has always, through the centuries, been a country which has assimilated people from abroad, and they have taken on our values, and also they have made us proud because they have made a great success of it,” Bishop Egan said. “Both materially and spiritually, the vast majority of people who are

working here and in our diocese are making a wonderful contribution,” he added. “To think of violence against them is self-destructive. It is selfharm. We are harming ourselves as much as we are inflicting division and suffering on others.” Bishop Declan Lang of Clifton, the diocese based in Bristol, also issued a statement telling Catholics that it was important “to work for the common good and not create barriers of division and prejudice.” “We should have a profound respect for one another, and this should be reflected in the way we speak and behave,” said the statement posted on the diocesan website June 27. “We need to keep in mind the needs of all citizens, particularly those who may feel marginalized at this present moment, and continue to be a tolerant society, free of racial and religious prejudice,” he said. Concerns over the phenomenon of mass migration, and the apparent inability of the U.K. to control its borders, had helped to fuel efforts to take Britain out of the EU in a referendum won by the “Leave” campaigners, with the public voting 52-48 percent to withdraw from the bloc. British Prime Minister David Cameron, who had fought for the U.K. to remain inside the EU, announced his resignation June 24. In the weeks before the referendum, national newspapers such as the Mail on Sunday had exposed how far-right nationalists, including neoNazis, had been actively campaigning on the Leave side. Witold Sobkow, Poland’s ambassador to the U.K., expressed shock at the surge in xenophobic abuse. Cameron told the House of Commons June 27 that such crimes must be stamped out. “We will not stand for hate crime or these kinds of attacks,” he said.

Former Holy Land ‘custos’ named apostolic administrator of Jerusalem VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Francis has accepted the resignation of Latin Patriarch Fouad Twal of Jerusalem and appointed Franciscan Father Pierbattista Pizzaballa, former “custos” of the Holy Land, as the apostolic administrator of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem. The Franciscan will serve as apostolic administrator until the appointment of a new patriarch and he will be elevated to the dignity of archbishop, the Vatican said. His episcopal ordination will be in September. The resignation and appointment were announced June 24 by the Vatican. Patriarch Twal, who has served as head of the Latin Patriarchate since 2008, stepped down for reasons of age. In October 2015, he turned 75 — the age at which bishops are required by canon law to turn in their resignations to the pope. Archbishopdesignate Pizzaballa served as “custos” of the Holy Land for 12 years. The “custos” is the provincial minister of the Franciscans in almost all of the Middle East, with jurisdiction over territory extending through Israel, the Palestinian territories, Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Cyprus and Rhodes, and at their monastery in Cairo.

South African church leaders criticize politicians for fueling violence CAPE TOWN, South Africa (CNS) — South African church leaders have urged an end to pre-election violence and criticized politicians for fueling it. “We are disappointed that our political leaders have not been visible and loud enough in their condemnation of the recent factional violence and political assassinations,” Bishop Abel Gabuza of Kimberley, who chairs the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference justice and peace commission, said in a June 27 statement. At least three people have been killed in the Tshwane area around South Africa’s capital, Pretoria, in late-June riots triggered by the ruling party’s choice of a mayoral candidate for municipal elections, scheduled for Aug. 3. Shops have been looted and cars and buses set alight in violent protests over economic hardship. Politicians “are mobilizing the young people in our communities, especially the unemployed youth, to engage in pre-election violence,” Bishop Gabuza said. He urged young South Africans “not to allow themselves to be used by politicians who show signs that their primary interest is greed for power and government tenders.”

JULY 1, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CLASSIFIEDS EMPLOYMENT Drivers - Special Beginnings Early Learning Center is seeking part-time drivers for its school-age program located in Lenexa. Candidates must be able to drive a 13-passenger minibus, similar to a 15-passenger van. CDL not required, but must have an excellent driving record. Candidates would pick up children from area schools and then work directly with them when arriving back at the center. Experience preferred. Must have strong work ethic and the ability to work with children. Insurance provided. Background check will be conducted. Great opportunity for retired persons or those seeking a second job. Job responsibilities include: ensuring safety and well-being of children who are being transported at all times, including loading and unloading. Driving short, round-trip routes to elementary schools in Lenexa/Olathe area. Summer only: Driving short, roundtrip routes to two Lenexa city pools. Maintaining mileage log. Keeping interior of vehicle clean. Apply by sending an email to: chris@specialbeginningsonline.com or in person at 10216 Pflumm Rd., Lenexa, KS 66215. Career opportunity - Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding a financial representative in the Kansas City metro, Atchison and Topeka area. Ideal for a determined, high energy, high expectation, professional, self-disciplined, independent individual desiring to serve others, yet earn a better than average income. We provide top-rated financial products to our members and their families and will provide excellent benefits and training. This is a full-time position. Please contact John A. Mahon, general agent, for more information or an interview at 1275 Topeka Blvd., Topeka, KS 66612 or call (785) 408-8806. You can also send an email to: john.mahon@kofc.org. Assistant tennis coach - Bishop Miege High School is seeking an assistant tennis coach for the 2016-17 school year. Email letter of interest and resume to Mike Hubka at: mhubka@bishopmiege.com.

Chiropractic assistant needed - Busy chiropractic office in NW Olathe (K-10 and Ridgeview Rd.) is looking for a part-time assistant for two Saturdays a month (8 a.m. - 1 p.m.) with the possibility of additional hours as needed. $12/hour. Job duties include answering phones, scheduling and checking in patients, insurance, assisting with patient therapies, etc. If you are professional, friendly, hard-working, and would like to help others, our office may be the place for you! Must have great phone and computer skills. Must be a people person and have a flexible schedule. Insurance experience is a plus, but not necessary. We will train on patient therapies. Ridgeview Chiropractic, 17775 W. 106th St., Suite 105, Olathe, KS 66061. Email resume to Dr. Craig Koshlap at: drk@ ridgeviewchiropractic.com or fax to (913) 890-7372. Youth minister/confirmation coordinator - Holy Spirit Church, Overland Park, is seeking a faith-filled individual to lead the middle school youth groups and to coordinate the parish’s confirmation program. In this full-time position, this individual must be able to work a flexible ministry schedule and minister in collaboration with parish and school staff. Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree in theology or a related field. A full job description is available online at: hscatholic.org/documents/2016/6/YouthMinister. pdf. Interested applicants should email a cover letter and resume to: ymposition@hscatholic.org. Fifth-grade teacher and sixth-grade teacher - St. Gregory Catholic School is seeking a full-time fifthgrade teacher and a full-time sixth-grade teacher for the upcoming 2016-’17 school year. Interested applicants should complete the teacher application process online at: www.archkckcs.org. Questions may be directed to Karen Farrell at St. Gregory by calling (785) 562-2831 or by sending an email to: kfarrell@ stgregorychurch.org. Teacher assistant - Special Beginnings, Lenexa, is seeking full- or part-time after school teacher assistants at all locations. We are looking for a teacher assistant candidate who has an excellent work ethic, heart for children and a willingness to learn more about early childhood education. Experience and/or education is a plus, but we will train the right candidate. Teacher assistants will work with the lead teacher to care for and educate the children. Primary responsibilities include assisting the lead teacher with: care and supervision of children, lesson plan implementation, parent communication, and cleanliness and organization of classroom. Starting hourly pay ranges based on experience and education. Pay increases are based on job performance. Opportunities for advancement are available, as the company prefers to promote from within. Apply by sending an email to: chris@specialbeginningsonline.com or in person at 10216 Pflumm Rd., Lenexa, KS 66215. High margin business for sale - We have a terrific opportunity for an owner/operator to purchase a service business with great cash flow. My son and co-owner is moving to North Carolina, and we’re looking to sell to someone with some energy. Business is thriving as is, or can be easily grown. This business can be run from your garage and all sales/locations are scheduled and cyclical; we have virtually no money or time in marketing. This is a nontechnical service and owner will stay on to train new owner. Email your contact information to: 3906biz@gmail.com.

Assistant teacher - John Paul II School is seeking a part-time assistant teacher, five days per week, in the afternoon preschool class. Previous experience in a preschool-age classroom is preferred. Montessori training or experience is a plus. Pay based on experience and education. For details or to apply, contact Donna at: dhogue@archkckcs.org.

American Janitorial L.L.C. - Insured/family owned for over 20 years. Specializing in office buildings with 10,000 - 30,000 square feet of cleaning space. Call John at (913) 575-2686.

Education and support coordinator - Catholic Charities of Kansas City - St. Joseph is looking for a licensed professional counselor for part-time community training. For a complete job description, visit our website at: www.catholiccharitieskcsj.org.

Swalms organizing - downsizing - cleanout service – Reduce clutter – Any space organized. Shelving built onsite. Items hauled for recycling and donations. 20 years exp.; insured. Call Tillar at (913) 375-9115. WWW. SWALMSORGANIZING.COM.

Drivers - Assisted Transportation seeks caring and reliable drivers to transport K - 12 students in Overland Park, Olathe and/or KCK in six passenger Dodge mini-vans. CDL not required. Retirees encouraged to apply. Learn more or apply online at: www.assistedtransportation. com or call (913) 262-3100, ext. 185. EEO

Masonry work - Quality new or repair work. Brick, block and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; second-generation bricklayer. Member of St. Paul Parish, Olathe. Call (913) 829-4336.

Community development and marketing coordinator - St. Michael the Archangel Catholic High in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, is seeking a community development and marketing coordinator. The ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic excited about evangelization and discipleship. The position’s primary focus will be building relationships through a variety of events, printed material and digital experiences to help promote and advertise a new Catholic high school. Applicant should be a high energy, self-motivated individual with strong technical skills in communication and graphic design. Apply by following this link: app.hireology.com/s/144417. Assistant director - John Paul II School is seeking an assistant director for its preschool/child care program. Applicants must have a minimum of two years experience in the classroom or one year experience in the classroom and one in administration. Strong organizational, communication and leadership skills, as well as computer proficiency, are required. Experience with school-age children a plus. Pay based on experience and education. For details or to apply, contact Donna at: dhogue@arch kckcs.org. Drivers needed - Medi Coach Transportation is looking for caring and reliable drivers for nonemergency transportation. CDL is not required. Contact Jeff at (913) 8251921. Day care assistance - Holy Rosary, Wea, is looking for day care assistance for our Angel House Daycare. Early childhood experience preferred. Interested applicants should send resume and letter to Stephanie at: stsmith@qhrwea.org.

SERVICES Bankruptcy consultation - If debts are overwhelming you, seek hope and help from compassionate, experienced Catholic attorney, Teresa Kidd. For a free consultation, call (913) 422-0610; send an email to: tkidd@kc.rr. com; or visit the website at: www.teresakiddlawyer. com. Please do not wait until life seems hopeless before getting good quality legal advice that may solve your financial stress. Agua Fina Irrigation and Landscape The one-stop location for your project! Landscape and irrigation design, Installation and maintenance. Cleanup and grading services It’s time to repair your lawn. 20% discount on lawn renovations with mention of this ad. Visit the website at: www.goaguafina.com Call (913) 530-7260 or (913) 530-5661 Mike Hammer local moving - A full-service mover. Packing, pianos, rental truck load/unload, storage container load/unload, and in-home moving. No job too small. Serving JoCo since 1987. St. Joseph, Shawnee, parishioner. Call Mike at (913) 927-4347 or send an email to: mike@mikehammermoving.com. Machine quilting - by Jenell Noeth, Basehor. Also, quilts made to order. Call (913) 724-1837. Clutter getting you down? - Organize, fix, assemble, install! “Kevin of all trades” your professional organizer and “Honey-do” specialist. Call today for a free consultation at (913) 271-5055. Insured. References. Visit our website at: www.KOATINDUSTRIES.com. Water damage restoration - Framing, insulation, painting, Sheetrock, mold treatment, and lead-safe certified. Fully insured. Serving Wyandotte and Johnson counties for 25 years. Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144. Seniors’ hair styling - Roller sets, backcombing, haircuts and perms. Located in the Workshoppe Beauty Salon at 5909 Dearborn, Mission, KS. Call (913) 432-6335 or (816) 769-8511. Wed-Thurs-Fri by appointment, with Bonnie. $5 off any service with mention of this ad. Rodman Lawn Care Lawn mowing, aeration, verticutting. Hedge trimming, mulch, leaf removal. Fully insured and free estimates. John Rodman (913) 548-3002 Cleaning lady - Reasonable rates; references provided. Call (913) 940-2959.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

The Drywall Doctor, Inc. - A unique solution to your drywall problems! We fix all types of ceiling and wall damage — from water stains and stress cracks to texture repairs and skim coating. We provide professional, timely repairs and leave the job site clean! Lead-certified and insured! Serving the metro since 1997. Call (913) 768-6655. KIRK AND YEYO PAINTING Whole house painting Wood rot repair, affordable Only premium paint used Licensed and insured (913) 927-5240, nelsport@everestkc.net Thank you for another great year - Through your support, my family has been blessed and my business has grown. We do windows, trim, siding, doors, decks, interior and exterior painting, wood rot, bathroom renovation, tile and Sheetrock. If you need work done around your home, we can do it. Josh (913) 709-7230. House Painting Interior and exterior; wallpaper removal. Power washing, fences, decks. 30 years’ experience. References. Reasonable rates. Call Joe at (913) 620-5776. DRC Construction We’ll get the job done right the first time. Windows - Doors - Decks - Siding Repair or replace, we will work with you to solve your problems. Choose us for any window, door, siding or deck project and you’ll be glad you did. Everything is guaranteed 100% (913) 461-4052 www.windowservicesoverlandpark.com drcconswindows@gmail.com Detail construction and remodeling - We offer a full line of home remodeling services. Don’t move — remodel! Johnson County area. Call for a free quote at (913) 709-8401. Rusty Dandy Painting, Inc. - We have been coloring your world for 40 years. Your home will be treated as if it were our own. Old cabinets will be made to look like new. Dingy walls and ceilings will be made beautiful. Woodwork will glow. Lead-certified and insured. Call (913) 341-9125. Local handyman and lawn care – Water heaters, garbage disposals, toilets, faucets, painting, power washing, doors, storm doors, gutter cleaning, wood rot, mowing, carpet, roofing, etc. Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118. NELSON CREATIONS L.L.C. Home remodeling, design/build, kitchens, baths, all interior and exterior work. Family owned and operated; over 25 years experience. Licensed and insured; commercial and residential. Kirk and Diane Nelson. (913) 927-5240; nelsport@everestkc.net Kansas City’s Premier Deck, Fence & Concrete - We repair, power wash and stain wood decks and fences. We power wash and seal concrete drives, walkways, pool decks and more. Call Brian at (913) 952-5965; Holy Trinity parishioner. STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Free estimates. Call (913) 491-5837 or (913) 579-1835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa. HARCO Exteriors LLC Your Kansas City fencing specialists Family owned and operated (913) 815-4817 www.harcoexteriorsllc.com Custom countertops - Laminates installed within 5 days. Cambria, granite, and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee. Concrete construction - Tear out and replace stamped, stained or colored patios and drives. Retaining walls, footings, poured-in-place safe rooms, excavation and hauling. Asphalt drives and lots. Fully insured; references. Call Dan at (913) 207-4371 or send an email to: dan deeconst@aol.com.

EL SOL Y LA TIERRA *Commercial & residential * Lawn renovation *Mowing * Clean-up and hauling * Dirt grading/installation * Landscape design * Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!! www.elsolylatierra.com Call Lupe at (816) 252-1391

CAREGIVING Personalized care - Experienced, specializing in dementia, medication setup and activities of daily living. Excellent references. Contact Andrea at (913) 548-1930. 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. Caregiver/housekeeper - Retired nurse, 30 years’ experience. Can provide care in your home or live-in care in mine. Private BR and bath available. Will also do shift work. For more information, call (913) 579-5276. Looking for high quality home care? - Whether you’re looking to introduce care for your family or simply looking to improve your current home care quality, we can help. Our unique approach to home care has earned us a 99% client satisfaction rating among the 1,000-plus families we have assisted. We are family-owned, with offices in Lenexa and Lawrence. Call Benefits of Home Senior Care, Lenexa: (913) 422-1591 or Lawrence: (785) 727-1816 or www.benefitsofhome.com. Team of girls - For around-the-clock care or available for one-on-one care with the same caregiver for morning, noon or night help. We care for your loved one just like family. Excellent references. Call Kara at (913) 909-6659. Sleepy Knights - Offers quality home care at affordable rates in the Kansas/Missouri area. We specialize in chronic care and general home health services. Call Tara at (913) 444-2724.

FOR SALE Residential lifts - Buy/sell/trade. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. Recycled and new equipment. Member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood. Call Silver Cross KC at (913) 327-5557. For sale - At Resurrection Cemetery, two easements in mausoleum. Contact A. Kelly at (913) 649-9691. Resurrection Cemetery - Crypt for sale. Mausoleum: Corridor Prince of Peace Chapel, tier C, crypt #2 - $5500. For more information, call (405) 413-2716.

WANTED TO BUY Wanted to buy - Antique/vintage jewelry, lighters, fountain pens, post card collections, paintings/prints, pottery, sterling, china dinnerware. Renee Maderak, (913) 631-7179. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee Will buy firearms and related accessories - One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee. Wanted to buy - I’m Mark Edmondson, a local parishioner at Holy Trinity, and I buy and sell houses in any condition. If you have a house “situation,” call me. I might have a solution for you. (913) 980-4905.

VACATION Branson getaway - Walk-in condo on Pointe Royale Golf Course. Sleeps six. Close to lakes and entertainment. Fully furnished. Pool and hot tub available. No cleaning fee. Nightly rates. Wi-Fi available. Discounts available. Call (913) 515-3044.

ROOMMATE Roommate wanted - $500 - $600 per month. Overland Park area, close to Johnson County Community College. Call (913) 579-5276.

Roommate wanted - Female seeking female roommate in Overland Park home. $400 per month plus one-third of the utilities. Furnished three-bedroom home. Six minutes from Oak Park Mall. No pets. Call (913) 599-5574.

TOUCH OF HEAVEN

Catholic Store 119 SE 18th Topeka, KS (785) 232-2543 Hrs. T-F - 10 a.m. 5:30; Sat. 9 a.m. to noon

JULY 1, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CALENDAR WOMEN AND HEART HEALTH Keeler Women’s Center 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kansas July 5 from 1 -2 p.m.

Dr. Alex Kieu will share information about heart health and how it differs for women.

faith formation featuring classes on doctrine, spirituality, literature and Catholic living. The commuter cost is $115; the overnight cost is $200. Adjusted rates are available for those who can only attend part of the symposium. To register, call (316) 7440167 or visit the website at: SCLwichita.org.

Monies from the sale will go to benefit St. Joan of Arc School in Mawuuki, Uganda, for ongoing educational, agricultural and medical assistance programs. For more information, call Joyce Feder at (913) 226-6958 or visit the website at: www.gottahavehope.org.

RUMMAGE SALE Strawberry Hill Museum (courtyard) 720 N. 4th St., Kansas City, Kansas July 9 from 7 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Strawberry Hill Museum will have its third annual rummage sale. Anyone who would like to set up a table in the courtyard and sell their items can call the museum at (913) 371-3264 to have a spot reserved for them.

Catholic Baseball Camp has several spots left. Registration is limited to the first 200 boys aged 8 - 15 to register. The cost for this year’s camp in Kansas City is $300 per camper, which includes instruction, lunch and a Royals ticket for a game during the camp. For more information, go to the website at: www.catholicbaseballcamp.org.

BURGERS, BRATS AND BINGO St. Pius X Parish 5500 Woodson Rd., Mission July 15 at 6 p.m.

Concessions and a bar will be available once the door opens at 6 p.m. Purchase one card for $10 to play 12 regular games of bingo. There will be three special games of bingo for $2. For more information, contact Marisa Snook (Bade) at (913) 244-5732 or send an email to: marisa.r.snook@gmail.com.

SACRED ART WORKSHOP St. Benedict’s Abbey 1020 2nd St., Atchison July 16 - 18

CHURCH PICNIC Sacred Heart Parish (basement) 357 3rd St., Baileyville July 10 at 5 p.m.

The cost for dinner is $10 for adults and $5 for children under the age of 10 years. There will be games for everyone and there will be an auction beginning at 9 p.m.

BLOOD DRIVE St. Joseph Parish 11221 Johnson Dr., Shawnee July 11 from 1 - 7 p.m.

Schedule an appointment by visiting the website at: www.savealifenow.org and use sponsor code stjosephcatholic. Walk-in donors are welcome. For more information, call Virginia Wiedel at (913) 268 -3874.

SUMMER SYMPOSIUM Spiritual Life Center 7100 E. 45th St. N., Wichita July 14 at 6:30 p.m. - July 16 at 3:15 p.m.

The symposium will be three days of adult

CENTERING PRAYER Sanctuary of Hope 2601 Ridge Ave., Kansas City, Kansas July 23 from 9 a.m. - noon

Enjoy five 20-minute periods of centering prayer with walking meditation breaks in between. The suggested donation is $10. Space is limited. For reservations, send an email to: ContemplativeOutreachKC@gmail.com.

‘ANGER, CONFLICT AND FORGIVENESS’ Sophia Spirituality Center 801 S. 8th St., Atchison July 22 at 7 p.m. - July 23 at 4 p.m.

Participants will create an illuminated letter using the traditional materials and techniques of the medieval monastic scriptorium with instructor Anthony Silvestri. For more information and to register, go to the website: www.contemporaryreligiousartists. org/2016-conference.

The spiritual approach to this retreat will help you to identify the unresolved anger and ensuing conflicts affecting your relationships. Learn the difference between forgiveness and reconciliation and learn how to let go of pain. For more information or to register, call (913) 360-7153 or visit the website at: www.sophiaspiritualitycenter.org.

CHURCH PICNIC St. Augustine 1948 Acorn Rd., Fidelity (7-1/2 miles south of Sabetha) July 17 at 4:30 p.m.

SYMPTO-THERMAL METHOD OF NATURAL FAMILY PLANNING Topeka July 23 at 7 p.m.

A chicken/ham dinner will be served in the handicap-accessible, air-conditioned church hall. The cost is: $10 for adults; $5 for ages 4 - 10; children ages 3 and under eat free. There will be a cakewalk, bingo, kids games, a chance to win a quilt and other food available at the Lunch Stand.

A reasonable course fee is charged and online registration is required at: www.ccli. org. Call Dana or Eric Runnebaum at (785) 380-0062 or the Couple to Couple League of Kansas City at (913) 894-3558 for more information, including the class location and the availability of self-paced, online classes. Learn more about this NFP class by going to the website at: nfptopeka.blogspot.com.

ANNUAL PRO-LIFE GOLF CLASSIC Shadow Glen Golf Club 26000 Shadow Glen St., Olathe July 18 lunch at 11 a.m. Shotgun start at noon

CARD/GAME PARTY Church of the Holy Cross 8311 W. 93rd St., Overland Park July 26 from 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

The tournament is a four-person scramble for men and women. Prizes include a 2016 Cadillac SRX Luxury for a hole-in-one. The tournament will conclude with a live auction. Non-golfers are invited to attend the

OUR LADY OF HOPE CATHOLIC CHURCH Welcoming Anglican traditions to the Catholic Church Our Lady of Sorrows

complimentary dinner and auction. The registration deadline and receipt of the registration fee of $330 per golfer is due by July 11. For more information and to download the registration form, go to the website at: www. VitaeFoundation.org/events.

CATHOLIC BASEBALL CAMP Mid-America Sports Complex 20000 Johnson Dr., Shawnee July 20 - 22

GARAGE SALE St. Michael the Archangel School (gym) 14201 Nall Ave., Leawood July 8 from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. July 9 from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Sunday Mass at 9:15 | 2552 Gillham Rd KCMO | www.ourladyofhopekc.com

St. Benedict Circle will host a card (or game of your choice) party/luncheon. The cost will be $12. For more information or to RSVP, call LuAnn Falbe at (913) 888-5534 or Carol Huwe at (913) 888-7276.

‘THE FOUR TASKS OF MOURNING’ Prince of Peace Parish 16000 W. 143rd St., Olathe July 26 from 1 - 2:30 p.m. (six weeks)

This support group, lead by Brent Doster from Catholic Community Hospice, is an excellent orienting group for anyone grieving the death of a loved one in the last year. Group size is limited and preregistration is required. For more information, call Doster at (913) 775-2421.

HAYDEN HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1961 55TH CLASS REUNION Terry’s Bar 525 S.W. 6th Ave., Topeka Aug. 26 at 7 p.m. Casual get-together

Most Pure Heart of Mary 3601 S.W. 17th St., Topeka Aug. 27 at 4 p.m.

Attend Mass with classmates and spouses. Following Mass, at 6:30 p.m., there will be a cocktail hour followed by a buffet dinner at the Topeka Country Club. For further information, call Carol Butler Deghand at (785) 224-8771 or Joann Starr Rossetto at (785) 233-7350.

SCRIPTURE GROUP AND BIBLE STUDY Keeler Women’s Center 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Wednesdays from 9:30 - 11 a.m.

There will be bible sharing, reflection, lectio and journaling, led by Heather Neds, pastoral minister.

WOMEN WRITERS Keeler Women’s Center 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Thursdays from 1 - 2:15 p.m.

Bring your journal, stories and poems and work with other writers to share, critique and improve.

BINGO AND LUNCH WITH THE ‘KEENAGERS’ St. Joseph Parish (Knights Hall) 11221 Johnson Dr., Shawnee Second Thursday each month at 11:30 a.m.

Seniors are welcome. Enjoy lunch, bingo and friends. For more information, call Mary Ann Jackman at (913) 268-0561.

K E A T I N G Mud Jacking FOUNDATION REPAIR Cracked • Bowed • Settled Wall Repair v Wall Bracing v Waterproofing v Steel Underpinning Kansas City (913) 262-9352

MUD JACKING Raise & Level

v Patios v Drives v Garage Floors v Slab Houses Lawrence (785) 865-0006

Topeka (785) 246-0128

JULY 1, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY FOURTEENTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME July 3 FOURTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Is 66: 10-14c Ps 66: 1-7, 16, 20 Gal 6: 14-18 Lk 10: 1-12, 17-20 July 4 Monday Hos 2: 16, 17b-18, 21-22 Ps 145: 2-9 Mt 9: 18-26 July 5 Anthony Zaccaria, priest; Elizabeth of Portugal Hos 8: 4-7, 11-13 Ps 115: 3-6, 7ab-8, 9-10 Mt 9: 32-38 July 6 Maria Goretti, virgin, martyr Hos 10: 1-3, 7-8, 12 Ps 105: 2-7 Mt 10: 1-7 July 7 Thursday Hos 11: 1-4, 8c-9 Ps 80: 2ac, 3b, 15-16 Mt 10: 7-15 July 8 Friday Hos 14: 2-10 Ps 51: 3-4, 8-9, 12-14, 17 Mt 10: 16-23 July 9 Augustine Zhao Rong, priest, and companions, martyrs Is 6: 1-8 Ps 93: 1-2, 5 Mt 10: 24-33 FIFTEENTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME July 10 FIFTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Dt 30: 10-14 Ps 69: 14, 17, 30-31, 33-34, 36,37 Col 1: 15-20 Lk 10: 25-37 July 11 Benedict, abbot Is 1: 10-17 Ps 50: 8-9, 16b-17, 21, 23 Mt 10:34 – 11:1 July 12 Tuesday Is 7: 1-9 Ps 48: 2-8 Mt 11: 20-24 July 13 Henry Is 10: 5-7, 13b-16 Ps 94: 5-10, 14-15 Mt 11: 25-27 July 14 Kateri Tekakwitha, virgin Is 26: 7-9, 12, 16-19 Ps 102: 13-14ab, 15-21 Mt 11: 28-30 July 15 Bonaventure, bishop, doctor of the church Is 38: 1-6, 21-22, 7-8 (Ps) Is 38: 10-12, 16 Mt 12: 1-8 July 16 Our Lady of Mount Carmel Mi 2: 1-5 Ps 10: 1-4, 7-8, 14 Mt 12: 14-21

ou may find this hard to believe but a nun, Sister Wendy Beckett, got me hooked. And it’s become worse as the years go by. I’ve written here about Sister Wendy before, but it’s been ages ago. She was born in South Africa, moved to Scotland with her family, joined the Sisters of Notre Dame and taught for about 15 years in South Africa. Ill health caused her to “retire” to England where she became a hermit, living in a primitive house trailer on the grounds of a Carmelite monastery. Sister Wendy always had an interest in art and, in the 1980s, she began to write essays on the subject for British journals. One day, she was overheard by a British Broadcasting Company producer commenting on a piece at an art exhibit. He was impressed and, shortly thereafter, Sister Wendy had her own TV series about art, which aired for nine years. The Encyclopedia Britannica described her insights as “eloquent and down-toearth commentary that made art accessible to everyone.” Sister Wendy certainly did that for me, primarily through her books. I started out with her “Grand Tour: Discovering Europe’s Great Art,” then

The eyes have it 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.

bought her “Book of Meditations,” “Book of Saints,” “1000 Masterpieces” and “American Masterpieces.” When her “Bible Treasury” came out about a year or so ago, I just had to get that, too. I suppose, as addictions go, this is a healthy one. Sister Wendy taught me to look deeply into art — its background inspiration, composition and messages. Little did I dream that there was a more formal description to viewing art like this. My classmate and friend, Stephen Binz, widened my perspective in his new book, “Transformed by God’s Word” (Notre Dame, Ind.: Ave Maria Press; 2016; 210

pgs.; $16.95). Like many Catholics, I was familiar with “lectio divina,” or “sacred reading” — a method of studying and praying with the Scriptures. There is, however, another way to experience the Scriptures called “visio divina,” which Binz defines as depicting “visually what the church teaches verbally.” Visio divina is formally experienced through icons, which he describes as visual Gospels. Lectio divina developed primarily in Western Christianity, while visio divina was more typical of Eastern Christian spirituality. Binz’s book is an invitation to bring both together, “so that one day soon, the church will be one, breathing fully with both lungs as the body of Christ.” This book on prayer is suitable for both the beginner and the veteran. Inside are 20 beautifully reproduced icons that

express the story of the Incarnation — from the Annunciation to Mary’s coronation in heaven. The icons, written by Ruta and Kaspars Poikans, are found in the Mary of Nazareth International Center in Nazareth. Binz helps readers to navigate the six movements of lectio and visio divina for each of the icons. Those movements are lectio (listening to the Scripture reading), visio (gazing at the icon), meditatio (reflection), oratio (prayer), contemplatio (contemplation) and operatio (witness). Don’t worry if you’re not sure what those Latin terms mean. Binz walks with you in each movement. Everything you need is in this book: the Scripture text depicted in the icon, the icon reproduction, questions for meditation, a “starter” prayer, an idea to help with contemplation and, finally, a suggested action to live out the message of the icon. Binz writes that the Scripture passages should be read aloud, so that as many senses as possible can be involved: “seeing the text with your eyes, vocalizing the text with your lips, and hearing the text with your ears.” This book can have a profound influence on you and affect how you see all of life.

The other day, for example, as I was about to swat a bothersome housefly, the words of a British scientist in National Geographic came to mind: “A housefly can make six turns a second, hover, fly straight up, fly straight down, fly backwards, do somersaults, land on the ceiling, and perform various other show-off maneuvers. And it has a brain smaller than a sesame seed.” Joel Achenbach, the author of the article, went on to note that “in addition to their compound eyes, which permit panoramic imagery and are excellent at detecting motion, [flies] have wind-sensitive hairs and antennae . . . [and] three light sensors . . . on the tops of their heads, which tell them which way is up.” (Found in “1001 Stories That Connect,” edited by Craig Brian Larson and Phyllis Ten Elshof.) Seeing that poor fly in this way, how could I just swat such an awesome creation? Instead, I coaxed it to the door and let it free. So, are you up to sharpening your eyes this summer? Take a welcome break from the heat, plop down with Sister Wendy or Stephen Binz and just “see” what develops.

Disciples commissioned to go prepare the nations

“C

arry no money bag, no sack, no sandals.” In other words, travel light. When Jesus gives these instructions to his disciples in Sunday’s Gospel reading — Lk 10:1-12, 17-20 — it sounds as though he doesn’t want anything to slow them down. He doesn’t even want them to chat to others as they travel to those places where he will eventually visit: “Greet no one along the way.” Jesus is sending out 72 disciples on this urgent mission in pairs. (There is some ambiguity about the exact number. Some ancient texts read 72, others read 70. Scholars are evenly divided on this

POPE FRANCIS

THE GOSPEL TRUTH

FATHER MIKE STUBBS Father Stubbs is the pastor of Holy Cross Parish in Overland Park and has a degree in Scripture from Harvard University.

point, but it ultimately does not appear to make any difference on the interpretation of the

The Catholic Church needs laypeople who look to the future, take risks and aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty, Pope Francis said. While laypeople must be “well-formed, animated by a straightforward and clear faith” and have lives truly touched by Christ’s merciful love, they also need to be able to go out and play a major role in the life and mission of

passage.) That makes a total of 36 teams. If every team of two disciples were to visit only one town or village, that would still mean a minimum of 36 places that Jesus would be planning to visit. Of course, if a team were to visit more than one place, that would only increase the total number. Evidently, Jesus intends to visit

a lot of places. In fact, one could argue that he intends to visit the whole world. That view finds support in the possible symbolic value of the number of disciples sent out. According to Jewish tradition, the number of Gentile nations in the world totaled 70 (or 72). This number is based on the list of names in Chapter 10 of the Book of Genesis. (Once again, some ancient texts supply 70 names, other texts supply 72 names.) If the number of disciples Jesus sends out points to the Gentile nations, it suggests that Jesus is enlarging the scope of his mission to include the entire world. That would correlate to the large number of places that Jesus would

the church, he said. The pope met June 17 with members, consultors and employees and their family members of the Pontifical Council for the Laity, which was holding its last plenary assembly June 16-18. Established by Blessed Paul VI after the Second Vatican Council, the office was meant to encourage and support laypeople’s involvement in the life and mission of the church, Pope Francis said, underlining

be planning to visit, already mentioned as 36 at the very minimum. This means that Jesus intends to visit the entire world — not personally, but through his disciples. Through them, Jesus will visit everyone, to bring them healing and the good news about the kingdom of God. Just as Moses in the Old Testament relied on the 72 (or 70) elders to help him care for the people of Israel (Ex 24; Nm 11), so also Jesus will share with these disciples the responsibility of carrying out his mission. As Jesus’ co-workers, they will bring Jesus’ presence to the whole world. Only one question remains: Are we included in that group of 72 (or 70) disciples?

the Italian word “incitare,” meaning “to spur, urge or encourage.” “The mandate you received from the council was exactly that of ‘pushing’ the lay faithful to get ever more and better involved in the evangelizing mission of the church,” he said. Lay involvement was in no way meant to be a “proxy” of the hierarchy, he said, but to participate in the saving mission of the church as baptized members. — CNS

JULY 1, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Project invests in KCK community as well as kids

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>> Continued from page 16 “We will miss St. Ann,” said Laura, who went through the RCIA program there just last year, “but we feel like it will be important to be integrated in a parish here.” Joining a local parish is one way the couple hopes to show they are committed to the local community. “Wyandotte County doesn’t appreciate people coming in and saying, ‘I’m going to fix your community,’” said Laura. “We want to say this is our community that we are investing in.” At an open house held recently at the Blue Door Project, the Dreschers experienced another “God moment” when they received a surprise donation from a local youth group. The group, comprised of high school seniors, had started raising money when they were in ninth grade. They didn’t have a specific purpose, just a hope that someday they would find a worthy cause. They hoped to offer their donation to someone who worked with youth. Then they heard about the Blue Door Project.

“EVERY ONCE IN A WHILE I GET A LITTLE FEARFUL,” SHE ADMITTED. “AND THEN I JUST TRY TO PRAY AND FIND SOME PEACE AND KNOW THAT I’M DOING WHAT I’M SUPPOSED TO BE DOING. Carla Drescher

“Christ Lutheran youth group provided us a $29,000 check,” said Laura. “God put that thought into their heads years ago. “They started fundraising for this project before we even came up with it.” The home sits on 1.35 acres and has a 10-foot privacy fence. The Dreschers had hoped to design a recreation area

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“It’s a big undertaking,” said Drescher, “to get something like this up and running and then to be able to care for the children.” And so, it’s not unusual to have moments of doubt. “Every once in a while I get a little fearful,” she admitted. “And then I just try to pray and find some peace and know that I’m doing what I’m supposed to be doing. “It’s been a beautiful experience so far.” As renovations begin, the Dreschers

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Work of mercy

are working on fundraising, writing policies and procedure, hiring staff, recruiting volunteers and developing programming for the Blue Door Project. Laura and Bryan are working on selling their house and moving into this new home under construction. “We’re hoping we can open toward the beginning of August,” said Drescher. “If we have some long-term kids, we’d really like for them to be there before school starts.” During this Year of Mercy, the Drescher family members said they are particularly aware of the Scripture passages that talk about caring for God’s children. “And that is a call for all of us,” said Drescher. “I feel very blessed to be able to do that.” How can you ignore the call when you hear God’s voice so clearly? “I just truly feel like this is God’s destiny for our family,” said Laura. “And this is what he has planned for us. “And it’s just really been his hand in this whole process.”

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for the teen residents. Now, they have the perfect group of consultants. “This youth group is going to guide us as far as what we want to do out back,” said Drescher. “We figure they’re about the age, so why not ask them.” One definite plan is to build a meditation garden at the base of a giant crucifix in the backyard — a lasting memorial to the house’s earlier monastic life.

JULY 1, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Blue Door Project executive officer Carla Drescher leads an open house tour explaining how a former convent in Kansas City, Kansas, will be renovated to house 16 foster children.

COLOR US BLUE Blue Door Project opens

During the Blue Door Project open house, Christ Lutheran Youth Ministry presented a $29,000 check to Drescher (third from left). Holding the check (center) is board of directors vice president Bryan Drescher and his wife Laura. The couple will be living in the house along with 16 foster children.

to foster youth

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD

By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — “It really was a godsend — because where do you find a house big enough for 16 kids?” said Carla Drescher. The godsend Drescher is referring to is the former Monastery of St. Michael in Kansas City, Kansas, built in the early 1950s to house a cloistered order of Carmelite nuns. T h e door to the old monastery has The Blue Door been paintProject would love ed a bright to have the Catholic blue and, community involved after some in its efforts to build serious a loving foster home renovafor local youth. To tions this learn how to help, s u m m e r, call (913) 961-0866 it will or visit the website b e c o me at: www.thebluedoor a foster project.org. home to 16 teenagers. It is the first step in a program called the Blue Door Project — an amazing effort on the part of the Drescher family to serve children in need. And that particular godsend was only the first of many. “If I could tell you all the different ‘God moments’ we’ve had,” said Drescher, a member of Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe, “it’s just incredible. “It makes me want to cry.”

To help

A worthy cause Drescher has worked 25 years in child welfare. Her son Bryan followed in her footsteps. When Drescher left her last position as director of behavioral health for the state of Kansas, she and Bryan started talking about the idea of opening a residential group home for youth. “We obviously saw the great need,” she said. The two pitched the idea to other family members and began praying. “And we kept praying,” said Drescher. “We prayed that if this is really what we’re supposed to be doing, give us a sign, open a door. “If I could tell you all the doors that have opened — there is no doubt in my mind that this is a God-driven mission.” Bryan’s wife, Laura Drescher, agrees. “In the beginning,” she said, “things were going quickly and I kept praying, ‘God, if this is not what you want to happen, let us know now because we’re full steam ahead.’ “Instead, he just opened doors and

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD

opened doors and opened doors.” The first door to open was the acquisition of the old monastery. “We started networking,” said Drescher. “One person we met told us about this house that used to be a convent.” The huge white house in the 3500 block of Wood Avenue wasn’t on the market, but Drescher was told the owners might sell to someone who had a worthy project. “They were very religious,” she explained. “And they wanted the right group that carried on a mission that’s dear to their hearts.” Drescher’s plans to help youth fit the bill. “We walked in the house and immediately knew this was home for us,” said Laura. An inspection revealed the property to be in good shape, but many renovations are needed to bring it up to code. “To do the project is about a half a million dollars, between the purchase and the renovation,” said Drescher. “We actually feel pretty good about the cost.”

A family affair When word got out about the Blue Door Project, people began volunteering to help with renovations. “JE Dunn [Construction] has agreed

to provide us a general contractor who will oversee our renovation project,” said Drescher. “We are so thankful that they agreed to do that.” A group called Faith Works — retirees who volunteer labor for remodeling nonprofits — will work on the project three days a week. And The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection has a construction mission that will bring a crew out two days a week. “The architect we have has done all of our architectural drawings pro bono,” said Drescher. “We have received gift after gift as far as the in-kind. “I’m just in awe every day.” When completed, the Blue Door will have bedrooms for eight boys on the lower level and eight girls on the upper level. And the program will be able to support itself financially. “Once we open our doors, then we’ll be self-sustaining because of the daily rate we receive from the state for each kid,” explained Drescher. “That’s kind of unusual in the nonprofit world — not always do you know where your next dollar is coming from.” As a residential group home, the Blue Door will be unique because Bryan and Laura Drescher will be living there. “We really wanted to have a family-like feel,” said Laura. “Many of these facilities get very institutional or hospital-like.

Volunteers needed

The Blue Door Project is in need of volunteers to come and make meals, but also to teach meal-making and budgeting, as well as to tutor and help with recreational activities. Call (913) 961-0866 or visit the website at: www.thebluedoorproject.org for more information.

“We wanted to do whatever we could to instill the feeling of a home, built on a traditional family.” Bryan will be part of the Blue Door Project staff. Laura will continue to work as a civil engineer. The couple hopes to have family meals and movie nights and simply provide an example of a marriage. The home will also be staffed full time. “So we really are not going to be fully responsible for [the teenagers] at all times,” said Laura. “Us living there is just kind of a bonus to make it feel like a family.”

Investing in the community Bryan and Laura, parishioners of St. Ann in Prairie Village, will be looking for a new parish in the community, too. >> See “PROJECT” on page 15