07-15-11 Vol. 33 No. 2

www.theleaven.com | Newspaper of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas | Vol. 33, No. 2 July 15, 2011

Helping hands

Angels with dirty work gloves: Teens mobilize for mission where prayer meets action

St. James Academy sophomore Andrew Tujague (left) puts some muscle into the job as he takes down a tree limb near an Emporia home as part of a new teen service program, Prayer and Action. At right, Shaleigh Yearsley, a member of St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee, applies a fresh coat of white paint to the same home, which belongs to Marcia Canaday. Although Canaday decided against applying for assistance because she believed there were others who needed the help more, her 11-year-old daughter Ruth sent in the application anyway, and the house was chosen for repairs.

E

MPORIA — It begins with one volunteer, with one line of song.

“Just a small town girl,” she sings while chipping away on top of a ladder at the faded paint of a house.

And seconds later, over 12 campers helping out at the house along with their youth leaders give full voice to Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’.”

“I’ve been serenaded for two days,” said Nicole Smith, the owner of the house the volunteers are renovating.

“These kids are pretty amazing. They came, and they’ve just jumped right in.

It’s pretty cute to hear them out here singing and trying to figure out a song

Story by Katie Hyde Photos by Doug Hesse that everyone knows.”

This is a typical moment of Prayer and Action, the archdiocesan weeklong mission trip experience in Emporia, unifying prayer with works of charity.

The program started out in the Diocese of Salina. However, so many archdiocesan teens were attending camp there that Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann decided to try a pilot program here, spearheaded by seminarians, based on the Salina program.

The archdiocese currently offers three weeklong camps in Emporia,

where youth groups combine hours each day renovating homes around the area with prayer and spiritual reflection.

“We want to show these kids the fullness of life in the love of God,” said Dan Morris, a seminarian for the archdiocese at Mundelein Seminary in Chicago, who has coordinated much of the camp.

“We are drawing deeper into union with God and drawing deeper into union with love of neighbor,” he said. “We combine the sacramental life of the church with the mission life of the church and show [the campers] how that is inseparable, how that is necessary to live in the fullness of the love of God.” During the June 26-July 1 camp,

Turn to “Teen” on page 15

By the numbers - 3 weeklong camps - approximately 50 campers perweek - 30 homes they hope to assist over the summer - almost 6 hours of yardwork and home assistance daily - 4 seminarians - 4 lay women - $100 per person for a week of camp - 40 spots open for the July 17-22 camp. (Campers must travel in groups with an adult chaperone) For information, send an e-mail to: prayerandactionkc@gmail.com.

The Good Earth

Archbishop Naumann’s tour of Catholic Charities last week included a visit to New Roots for Refugees, a refugee-based farming program. Check out a video of this visit at: www. theleaven.com

Changed for good After 135 years, 255 Sisters and one changed community, the Benedictine Sisters leave Seneca.

3

8-9

Team Players

Two Topeka athletes will travel to the Boccia World Cup in Belfast, Northern Ireland, next month in the hopes of qualifying there for the 2012 Paralympics in London.

4

2 local news

THE LEAVEN • July 15, 2011

THE LEAVEN • july 15, 2011

Archbishop announces closing of Lillis parish Decree of Suppression of St. Joseph Parish

Decree of Suppression of St. Joseph Parish – Lillis, Kansas, and Alteration of the Surrounding Parishes of Annunciation, Frankfort; St. Vincent de Paul, Onaga; St. Patrick, Corning; and St. Columbkille, Blaine.

continue the work of being an instrument of Jesus for the salvation of souls, and after much prayer and reflection, considering the prior recommendations of the regional pastoral planning processes, and after consulting with the local pastors, I hereby take the following action: I, the undersigned archbishop of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, in virtue of my pastoral office and in conformity with the Code of Canon Law, n recent decades, due to shiftafter consultation with the Presbyteral ing demographics, fewer priests Council in accord with the norm of law and the increased ease of travel for most families, several parish- on Jan. 19, 2011, and again on May 25, 2011, and after hearing, through the es and mission churches throughout the Archdiocese that had previously vicar general, concerns of affected parishioners, do hereby decree that St. Jothrived were closed or merged, so that the limited available resources might seph Parish, Lillis, is suppressed and the surrounding parishes of Annunciation be better applied to serve all the faithin Frankfort, St. Vinful of northeast Kancent de Paul in Onaga, sas and continue the St. Patrick in Corning, commission given by and St. Columbkille in Jesus: to proclaim the Blaine shall be altered Gospel, make disciples as defined in the apand serve others in his pendix to this decree, name. The Archdiocese effective July 8, 2011. of Kansas City in KanAdditionally, I emsas has for many years power Father Pat Sulconducted regional See the next issue of livan, currently the papastoral planning prothe Leaven for a story rochial administrator cesses for the various of St. Joseph Parish, on the closing of St. parts of the 21 counties to establish and chair that make up the ArchJoseph Parish in Lillis. a commission comdiocese. The goal of this prised of parishioners pastoral planning effort from St. Joseph for the has been to use the limpurpose of bringing recommendations ited resources, especially our priests, wisely and to help build vibrant com- to me concerning the disposition of the parish buildings, land and other assets munal and spiritual life in the parishes.

Sometimes achieving that goal requires in accord with the prescriptions of canon law, no later than Oct. 8, 2011. lowering the number of parishes that I invite the support of the local pasoperate within the Archdiocese. tors in assisting the parishioners of In September 2006, the Strategic St. Joseph as they integrate with surPlanning Task Force for what was then rounding parishes. I appeal to the pathe St. Marys Pastoral Region, comrishioners of all the involved parishes prised of the priests and some lay repreto welcome the new members and to sentatives of the faithful in the region, recommended that St. Joseph Parish, work enthusiastically with their pastors to build vibrant and prayerful faith Lillis, be merged with Annunciation communities where the Gospel is proParish in Frankfort. No action was taken on that recommendation at that time. In claimed and lived so that the life of the July 2008, the Strategic Planning Task church in the Nemaha-Marshall Pastoral Region will thrive. With the help of Force for the Nemaha-Marshall Pastoral Almighty God and with the aid of the Region provided recommendations for parish configurations as the number of prayers of the Immaculate Blessed Virpriests serving the region declined. One gin Mary, patroness of the Archdiocese, of those recommendations included the may the truth and love of Jesus Christ be made evermore present to individuclosure of St. Joseph Parish.

According to Canon 515.2 of the als, families and the communities that Code of Canon Law: “The diocesan reside there. bishop alone is competent to erect, suppress, or alter parishes.” The Second Vatican Council, in its Decree on the Bishops’ Pastoral Office in the Church Most Reverend Joseph F. Naumann (“Christus Dominus”), no. 32, teaches Archbishop of Kansas City in Kansas that in creating or in any way changing the status of a parish, the bishop is to be Given on the 28th day of June, 2011, motivated by his concern for the salvation of souls. After hearing the Presby- at the Chancery in Kansas City, Kansas. teral Council (the archbishop’s council of priest advisors) as required by Canon 515.2, after discussing with them how Reverend John A. Riley, Chancellor to use the limited resources so as to best

I

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

Appendix Definition of Altered Territorial Boundaries

St. Columbkille, Blaine (Pottawatomie County) Beginning at the western boundary of Pottawatomie County where Tuttle Creek Reservoir meets Turkey Run Rd. then northeasterly along Big Blue River (western boundary of PT County) to Parallel Rd. (MS-PT county line), then east 15.5 miles on Parallel Rd., then south 12 miles on Sherman-Lyons-McGerty-Cleveland Rd., then west 3 miles on Star Union Rd., then north 2 miles on Clear Creek Rd., and west 19.5 miles on Fox–Westmoreland-Norman-Turkey Run Rd. to the Tuttle Creek Reservoir (point of beginning).

Annunciation, Frankfort (Marshall County) Beginning at the intersection of Parallel Rd. (PT-MS county line) and 17th Rd. go north on Ms. Co. 17th Rd. 5 miles, then west on Zenith Rd. 2 miles, then north on 15th Rd. 7 miles, then east on Ridge Rd. 1 mile, then north on 16th Rd. 2 miles, then east on Pheasant Rd. 3 miles, then north on 19th Rd. 1 mile, then east on Osage Rd. 6 miles, then south on 25th Rd. 4 miles, then east 6 miles on Hwy. 9, then south on 31st Rd. 11 miles, then west on Parallel Rd. to 17th Rd. 14 miles (point of beginning).

Archbishop Naumann’s weekly calendar July 16 Wedding — St. Louis July 17 Mass for Catholic HEART Work Camp — Bishop Miege, Roeland Park July 18 Comcast “Newsmakers” taping at Negro League Baseball Museum July 19 Case Review Task Force meeting July 21 School of Faith meeting July 22 “The Catholic Way” radio taping Pre-event dinner, “Being Faithful Unto Death” conference with Cardinal Burke July 23 Welcome & opening remarks, “Being Faithful Unto Death” conference — Savior Pastoral Center July 24 Concelebrate Mass with Cardinal Burke — Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Kansas City, Mo. July 26 Lunch with Catholic Charities staff — Savior Pastoral Center Mass & dinner at Camp Tekakwitha — Prairie Star Ranch, Williamsburg

Archbishop Keleher’s weekly calendar July 17 Parish Mass

St. Vincent de Paul, Onaga (Pottawatomie County)

July 22 Wedding rehearsal

Beginning at the intersection of Parallel Rd. and Cleveland Rd. (PT), east 14 miles on Parallel, then south on Cedar Bluffs Rd. (PT-JA county line) 12 miles, then west 14 miles on America City-Meyano-Star Union Rd., then north 12 miles on Sherman-Lyons-McGerty-Cleveland Rd. to Parallel Rd. (PT-MS county line) (point of beginning).

July 23 Family wedding

St. Patrick, Corning (Nemaha County) Beginning at the intersection of K9 Hwy. and A. Rd. (NM), east 6 miles on K9 Hwy., then south 2 miles on G. Rd., then east 12 miles on 72nd Rd., then south on S. Rd. 9 miles, continuing south into Jackson County on H. Rd. 2 miles, then west on 270th Rd. 7 miles, then north on A. Rd. (JA) 2 miles, then west on Parallel Rd./1st Rd. 11 miles, then north on A. Rd. (NM) 11 miles (point of beginning).

July 24 Knock Shrine Mass July 31 80th birthday

Roman Missal workshops • July 13 - St. Francis Xavier, Burlington 7-9 p.m.

• July 26 - Didde Campus Center, Emporia - 7-9 p.m.

• July 27 - St. Gregory, Marysville - 7-9 p.m.

• Aug. 20 - St. Benedict’s, Atchison - 9-11 a.m.

• Aug. 21 - Mater Dei (Assumption), Topeka - 2-4 p.m.

• Aug. 27 - Holy Family, Eudora - 9-11 a.m.

• Sept. 10 - St. Aloysius, Meriden - 9-11 a.m.

• Sept. 20 - Curé of Ars, Leawood - 7-9 p.m.

• Sept. 27 - Good Shepherd, Shawnee - 7-9 p.m.

• Oct. 18 - Ascension Parish, Overland Park - 7-9 p.m.

END OF AN ERA in seneca

Last Benedictine nun assigned to Sts. Peter and Paul retires

By Katie Hyde

Special to The Leaven SENECA — There have been Benedictine Sisters here since before Dodge City hired Wyatt Earp.

Until now.

On June 26, Sister Delores Dolezal, the 255th and last Benedictine Sister assigned to Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Seneca retired, thus ending 135 years of ties between this rural community and the Benedictine Sisters.

Parishioners, community members, Benedictines and others who had taught at the school crowded into the church that day for a Mass celebrating nearly a century and a half of dedication to the community of almost 2,000 people.

The shared history of Seneca and the Benedictine Sisters began in August of 1869, when the order branched out from its motherhouse in Atchison to establish its first mission in Seneca.

“God directed [the settlers of Seneca] to Kansas and gave [them] the strength to stay put,” said Abbot Barnabas Senecal, who celebrated the Mass, during his homily. “There was little in the way of manna from heaven, but [they] had many blessings. The Benedictine Sisters were one of those blessings.”

After establishing their mission, four Benedictine Sisters began working at Sts. Peter and Paul Grade School in 1876, six years after the school had opened.

Especially after adding Seneca Catholic High School in 1920, the number of Sisters steadily grew. When the high school closed in 1974, however, only five Sisters were left.

Now there are none.

A changed community Generations of Senecans have been changed by the influence of the Sisters — by their mission and dedication to prayer.

“This community has grown up with Benedictine Sisters,” said Sister Mary Ellen, who worked at the church in pastoral ministry. “Even the county has. There are Sisters all over Nemaha [County].”

Their influence can be seen especially in the townspeople, many of whom attended Sts. Peter and Paul School and remember the nuns that taught them there.

One such member of Seneca is Mary Ann Haugsness, who remembers every Sister who taught her in elementary school.

She remembers Sister Wenceslas, who would let students change the clothing on her statue of the Infant of Prague if they were good. She remembers Sister Immaculatta, who told everyone, “Stand tall and be proud.” She remembers Sister Georgia, who taught her eighth-grade class a lesson in Christian modesty and

MUD JACKING

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

forbade the girls from wearing cancans beneath their skirts.

“You don’t forget those people,” Haugsness said. “They leave a lasting impression on you. A good impression.”

The ties between Seneca and the Benedictine Sisters are also clearly displayed in the 12 native Senecans who became Benedictines themselves.

But though the Benedictine Sisters may leave Seneca, parishioners and the Sisters alike agree that their influence will never be forgotten.

“They’ll stay here in the parents and in the grandparents,” Haugsness said.

Father Michael Koller, former pastor of Sts. Peter and Paul, also is hopeful that the mission and the love of the Sisters will remain in the community. “[The Sisters] have been a tremendous asset to community, parish and school,” he said. “And they will be deeply missed.”

A servant of God The church was crowded for the 9 a.m. Mass on June 26. There were nuns and Knights, families and friends gathered to honor Sister Delores Dolezal and all the other Benedictine Sisters who had served Seneca for these past 135 years.

When the congregation was asked, “How many of you have either been taught [by] or have a relative who has had Sister Delores Dolezal as a teacher?” nearly the entire congregation raised their hands. What started as a soft chuckle rippling through the crowd quickly turned into thunderous applause.

Sister Delores, who had taught first grade at the school for 24 years, celebrated her 50th year of monastic life last year.

“I’m just honored to be the last [Benedictine at Sts. Peter and Paul],” Sister Delores said. “Just to be part of the heritage is so amazing — to say ‘I, too, have been part of the history.’”

Sister Anne Shepard, prioress of Mount St. Scholastica in Atchison, who lauded Sister Delores at the ceremony for her golden anniversary of monastic life, was amazed at the creativity and love for Jesus apparent in the educator’s classroom.

“Delores’ room is full of life,” Sister Anne said. “You have to look hard to find the kids, because they are working and learning.”

Sister Delores, who grew up near Omaha, Neb., also engendered a love of nature in her students. She was a major influence in the creation of Sts. Peter and Paul’s nature center where an old parking lot used to stand.

“Children need to experience nature, they really do,” Sister Delores enthused. “There’s something about being outside, looking at ants or following rabbit tracks in the snow. All creation is

Photos by Fernando Ugarte

Top photo: From left to right, Benedictine Sisters Anne Shepard, Delores Dolezal, Rose Marie Stallbaumer and Mary Ethel Burley participate in the June 26 Mass honoring their order’s 135-year service to Sts. Peter and Paul Parish in Seneca. Above: Former students crowd around Sister Delores during the ceremony that followed the Mass of thanksgiving. waiting for Christ to come.”

Before she moves back to Atchison — hopefully to become a master gardener, tutor children, and take painting, sculpture, calligraphy and horticulture classes — Sister Delores had a message for the community of Seneca.

“First, I want to say thank you to the people of Seneca,” she said. “Thank you

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)

Editor Reverend Mark Goldasich, stl frmark@theleaven.com

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe@theleaven.com

Reporter Jessica Langdon jessica@theleaven.com

President Most Reverend Joseph F. Naumann

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita@theleaven.com

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd@theleaven.com

Advertising Representative Jennifer Siebes jennifer@theleaven.com

Raise & Level

v Patios v Drives v Garage Floors v Slab Houses

SECOND FRONT PAGE 3

for allowing me to be a part of their life and their children’s.

“Second, I want them to forgive me. I am human and I have made mistakes. I want to apologize if I have hurt anybody.

“Third, I do love them all so much.

They’re just good people.”

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 $18/year. Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.

4 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • July 15, 2011

THE LEAVEN • July 15, 2011

LOCAL NEWS 5

Southern Region plan accepted Plan to facilitate more communication, inter-parish collaboration Joe Bollig

Leaven Staff

Photo by Marc Anderson

Using chutes and ramps, Topekans Austin Hanson and Lee Lobmeyer, a Christ the King parishioner, are able to compete in the international sport of boccia. Both Hanson and Lobmeyer will compete Aug. 18-27 at the 2011 World Cup in Belfast, Ireland. The World Cup is the last major international boccia competition prior to the 2012 London Paralympic Games and will include athletes from more than 30 countries. Each competing athlete is allowed one assistant. Above left, Hanson’s father, Gary Hanson, and Lobmeyer’s mother, Cathy Drobny, serve as the athletes’ assistants.

Topeka athletes compete to qualify for Paralympic Games

By Marc and Julie Anderson

Special to The Leaven

TOPEKA — With only a year before the 2012 Summer Olympic Games, athletes across the world are hard at work practicing almost every sport imaginable — from table tennis to synchronized swimming.

With daily training regimens, these Olympic hopefuls prepare day in and day out, dreaming of that one day when they will stand on that victors’ podium, representing their country.

In Topeka, two athletes share a similar dream — not for the Olympic Games, but for the 2012 Paralympic Games.

Lee Lobmeyer and Austin Hanson are members of America’s 2011 World Cup team in the sport of boccia. Lobmeyer, who belongs to Christ the King Parish in Topeka, and Hanson, her partner, will compete Aug. 18-27 in Belfast, Northern Ireland, for the World Cup. The event is the last major

Wagner’s Mud-Jacking Co. Specializing in Foundation Repairs Mud-jacking and Waterproofing.

Serving Lawrence, Topeka and surrounding areas.

Topeka (785) 233-3447 Lawrence (785) 749-1696 In business since 1963 www.foundationrepairks.com

competition prior to the 2012 Paralympic Games and demands not only physical training but also spiritual and mental preparation — not to mention some creative fundraising.

Both team members must raise $8,000 each for the competition.

According to its Web site, the Paralympic Games are exactly the same as the Olympics . . . with one slight difference: The elite games are sports events for athletes with physical disabilities. Rather than emphasize the athletes’ challenges, however, the games focus on the participants’ unique achievements.

First organized in Rome in 1960, the Summer Paralympic Games have grown from 400 athletes from 23 countries in 1960 to nearly 4,000 athletes from 146 nations in 2008.

Boccia is an adaptive version of bocce, a game of Italian origin similar to lawn bowling. This sport is reserved for those athletes who have quadriplegia. Played on either a specially-marked court or a

gym floor, the object of boccia is simple.

Individual players, pairs or teams of three throw or roll a set of game balls so they land as close as possible to a target ball, called the jack.

Boccia has been a part of the games since 1984. Since nearly that time, Lobmeyer (who, like Hanson, has cerebral palsy) has played this unusual game traditionally dominated by male athletes. She earned several medals in the sport, including a bronze medal at the 1988 Paralympic Games in Seoul, Korea, after which she decided to take a break.

About eight years ago, Lobmeyer decided to play again.

“I hit the court really hard,” she said, adding that’s when she and Hanson first paired up as a team. Since then, the duo has won several competitions and remains ranked among the best teams in the world.

To prepare for the Belfast competition, Lobmeyer and Hanson practice a minimum of four hours twice

a week, although they often practice much more.

“We are dedicated. We want to win,” said Lobmeyer, adding that she and Hanson have gelled so well as a team that they know each other’s nuances or subtle facial expression changes.

“I can tell what he wants. We’ve got it down to one or two words now,” Lobmeyer said, Words such as “up,” “down,” “knock it” or “kiss it,” she said, might mean nothing to spectators, but convey an entire strategy between teammates.

Besides physical training and strategy coordination, the duo relies heavily on their shared Christian faith to see them through the highs and lows of competitions.

“When I am making a tough shot, I pray a Hail Mary,” Lobmeyer said, adding that her mother, who serves as her assistant, prays a rosary.

“I come in on the court very calm, and I stay calm,” concluded Lobmeyer.

“I’m calm because I am asking God for help.” unplanned pregnancy? decisions to make?

Replace pressure and panic with thoughtful, and rational reflection. A confidential, caring friend is waiting for your call.

Topeka- (785) 234-0701 Lawrence- (785) 843-4821 Leavenworth- (913) 682-2700 Kansas City-(816)444-7090 Emporia- (620) 342-8600

irthright

or call 24 hrs. toll free 1-800-550-4900

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — The size of the Southern Pastoral Region played a big role in shaping the regional pastoral plan now being put into effect.

The Southern Region encompasses 18 parishes — the same number as the Johnson County Pastoral Region, which is much smaller geographically. For comparison’s sake, the Southern Region covers 3,701 square miles, while the Johnson County Region covers only 366.

In the latter region, to take another example, a drive from the two parishes most distant from each other is only 28 miles. In the Southern Region, it is 97 miles.

This kind of geography is why two of the major components of the Southern Region pastoral plan are collaboration among parishes and clustering.

“Collaboration is key in assisting in the renewal of the vitality of parishes,” said Father Anthony Williams, pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Olpe and St. Mary Parish in Hartford. He is also the regional pastoral leader.

“The question is: How can we best utilize our resources for growth and service to our parishioners?” Father Williams continued. “Establishing parishes in different clusters is one way to maximize our resources and to facilitate communication.”

The Southern Region pastoral plan presents a common vision for parishes and schools in the region.

The 28-page plan also calls for the 18 parishes and five schools of the region (plus the Didde Catholic Center at Emporia State) to strive for eight shared goals and targets. Among the eight are additional opportunities for adult faith formation, assisting the youth to grow spiritually, and identifying opportunities for collaboration.

Given the diversity of the parishes and the expanse of the region, the plan is further broken down into specific recommendations for each parish.

Collaboration is vital for the Southern Region, said Alan Meitler, a planning consultant for the Milwaukeebased Meitler Consultants.

“It can be difficult for a small parish to provide full, complete ministries on its own,” he said. “That’s why [participants] looked at the ways parishes work together. It might be informal, or clustering, or maybe eventually merging.”

For collaboration to work, according to Meitler, Catholics need to see themselves as a community that is not defined solely by the church building where they worship, but by a larger community that can join hands across parish boundaries for more effective ministry.

Photo by Rose Hammes

The challenge of pastoral planning for the second-largest region in the archdiocese required a great deal of thought and planning. Father Jerry Williams, O. Carm. (left), and Father Anthony Williams, regional pastoral leader, were among the clergy and laity who hammered out a plan that has collaboration and communication as key components.

“It can be difficult for a small parish to provide full, complete ministries on their own. That’s why they looked at the ways parishes work together. It might be informal, or clustering, or maybe eventually merging.”

”

Alan Meitler, planning consultant for Meitler Consultants One example of this is Catholic education in the region. Often, the five schools draw students from beyond the parish boundaries.

“Catholic schools may be parishowned from an administrative point of view but, from a mission point of view, they serve a larger geography than that particular parish,” said Meitler. “Often, they will serve other parishes in the surrounding area. Those schools need the support of people in those broader areas.”

Recommendations contained in the plan call for: 1. Creating parish clusters for collaboration

2. Requesting continued assistance from the Carmelite order 3. Improving marketing and recruitment efforts for Catholic schools 4. Developing strategic plans for Catholic schools that encompass accreditation, advancement, marketing, recruitment, financial plans and facility plans 5. Conducting programs at convenient locations within the region and use technology to give training to people who find long distances a barrier 6. Making more resources and tools available to volunteers 7. Establishing a pilot program at one parish for remote catechetical training, possibly Web-based 8. Using computer-based backup systems to safeguard parish records.

Demographics are a challenge in the region. Some parish populations are growing, while others are holding their own, according to Father Williams.

Some schools have lost enrollment.

Another important demographic element is the number of priests in the region. Now there are 12 priests there — 11 archdiocesan, and one a member of the Carmelite religious order. The pastoral plan, in Appendix B, outlines possible options if those numbers decrease.

“While this is not a desirable situation, a planned response will be bet-

Southern Region parishes Sacred Heart, Emporia St. Catherine, Emporia St. Joseph, Olpe St. Mary, Hartford St. Francis Xavier, Burlington St. Joseph, Waverly St. Teresa, Westphalia St. Patrick, Emerald Holy Angels, Garnett Sacred Heart, Ottawa St. Therese, Richmond St. Boniface, Scipio St. John, Greeley St. Philip Neri, Osawatomie Holy Trinity, Paola Immaculate Conception, Louisburg Our Lady of Lourdes, LaCygne Sacred Heart, Mound City ter than being surprised and forced to make sudden changes,” according to the plan.

For a copy of the Southern Region pastoral plan, go to the archdiocesan Web site at: www.archkck.org. There, “The Archdiocese” tab provides a pulldown menu; click on “pastoral planning.” Pastoral plans for the various archdiocesan regions are all located there.

Villa St. Francis

16600 W. 126th Street • Olathe, Kansas 66062 Phone: (913) 829-5201 Fax: (913) 829-5399 Daily Mass in the Chapel at 10 a.m.

• Medicare and Kansas Medicaid certified • 24 - hour nursing care • Dementia/Alzheimer’s unit • Physical, occupational and speech therapist on staff/ Rapid recovery • Nutritious Home cooked meals • Private and Semi Private rooms • Beauty and Barber Shop • 24 hour snacks Affiliated with the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas

6 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • july 15, 2011

THE LEAVEN • july 15, 2011

Awards are icing on the cake for Leaven staff, freelancers

By Joe Bollig Leaven Staff

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Going the extra mile — in snow and ice, no less — for a special issue earned The Leaven a big first place win in the 2011 Catholic Press Association awards competition.

The judges praised the Dec. 24 special issue, “A Day in the Life of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas,” as a “well-executed, beautifully photographed project.”

In addition to winning first place for Best One-Time Special Issue, it also took a second place for Best Photo Story.

“I’m always happy when The Leaven is acknowledged at the awards ceremony. This time, I was especially pleased by the first and second places the special issue took,” said managing editor Anita McSorley.

“Those issues are always a collaborative effort and a labor of love,” she continued. “But this one was a reminder of just how wide and deep the activities of the Catholic Church are on any given day. Even professional ministry folks, who are out there in the trenches, told me the hour-by-hour coverage made them realize that what they saw every day was only a fraction of all that goes on in the church.”

The special issue required a lot of work, said production manager Todd Habiger.

“The special issue was a beast in terms of logistics,” he said. “We wanted this issue to encompass the entire archdiocese, to show people what a day is like at any given point of time in the archdiocese.”

“I think we were successful in that regard,” he continued. “We put out a call to every photographer we could think of, and they were all excited about the project. Despite the long day, our photographers never complained and really took ownership of their turn and brought back some spectacular images.”

Editor Father Mark Goldasich shared McSorley’s and Habiger’s enthusiasm for the special issue.

“I’m always proud of my staff, but never more than at awards time,” he said. “It’s then that we put the work of just a handful of people up against newspapers produced by staffs of a dozen or more. Special thanks go to Susan, Elaina, Jill, Lori, Don, J.D., Fernando — and, of course, Joe and Todd. That was one for the record books.”

But he was also pleased with the third-place finish in the Best Front Page category.

“I’m glad we placed again in the Best Front Page category,” he continued. “That’s six times in the past eight years . . . not that anyone’s counting!”

Freelance reporter Jill Ragar Esfeld won third place for Best Reporting Special Age Group Senior Citizens.

“Last year, I won an award for a piece I did on Catholic students at the St. Lawrence Center at the University of Kansas, and this year for a story about a Catholic

This photo of Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann throwing out the first pitch at a Kansas City T-Bones game took third place for Best Sports Photo at the annual Catholic Press Awards competition.

The Dec. 24 special double issue of The Leaven won first place for Best One-Time Special Issue.

The issue also took second place for best photo story.

The Leaven took third place in the Best Front Page category with the submission of these three consecutive issues of The Leaven. bishop Joseph F. Naumann tossing out the first pitch at a Kansas City T-Bones baseball game. Little did the prelate know that his efforts would be reviewed at a later date.

“Layering the archbishop with the catcher and the ballpark is more effective than a tight shot of him throwing the ball,” said the Jill Ragar Esfeld won third place for Best Reporting Special Age Group judges of Cochran’s Senior Citizens. photo. senior citizen group in Lawrence. So it’s And . . . “Great nice to know I can do a good job coverform on the part of the archbishop.” ing both ends of the spectrum,” said EsFinally, the awards were rounded feld. out by an honorable mention from the But Esfeld had another reason for beNational Right to Life Committee’s ing pleased with the win.

14th annual Excellence in Journalism “I’m so glad this story was recognized Awards, won by freelancers Marc and because it focused on empty nesters,” Julie Anderson. she said, “a group that often has a dif“Our story was ‘A couple’s fiat or the ficult time fitting into parish activities ‘ayes’ have it,’” said Julie Anderson. once children are grown and gone.”

“The story was about a little girl by the Freelance photographer Elaina Coname of Mariella, whose birth mother chran won a third-place award for Best had started and stopped an abortion.

Sports Photo, capturing a shot of ArchCabrina and Mark Magee of Holy Spirit

Leaven freelancers Marc and Julie Anderson got an honorable mention from the National Right to Life Committee’s 14th annual Excellence in Journalism contest for their story “A couple’s fiat.”

Parish in Overland Park adopted Mariella in 2007, with Cabrina being present at [Mariella’s] birth in the delivery room.”

Marc Anderson said the story “seemed meant for us.”

“Given our background, it made sense to us,” he said. “We are both active volunteers in the pro-life ministry.

We have always had a special place in our hearts for pro-life work, due to the fact that we were both born in 1973, the year of Roe v. Wade [abortion ruling].”

Each award The Leaven receives is a welcome affirmation, said Esfeld, but each issue is affirmation enough.

“Working with The Leaven staff is its own reward,” said Esfeld. “They are such a talented group of people. And I feel so fortunate to be able to do what I love — write — and do it for the glory of God. The CPA awards are just icing on the cake.”

Jo Marie (Canfield) and Earl Hogan, members of St. Agnes Parish, Roeland Park, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary at the church by renewing anniversaries their marriage vows during Mass on June 25 with Father Gerardo Arano-Ponce officiating.

The couple was married on July 1, 1961, at St. Joseph Church in Mishawaka, Ind. Their children and their spouses are: Kathleen and Bob Wendland, Fairway; Peggy Margolin, Aspen, Colo.; Kelly and Jeff Randall, Lawrence; and Dan and Leslie Hogan, Kansas City, Mo. After Mass, the couple celebrated with a dinner, attended by their children, 12 grandchildren, and friends at Sutera’s in Westwood.

Glenn and Rosalie Schreiber, members of Church of the Ascension in Overland Park, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on July 8. The couple was married on July 8, 1961, at St. John The Evangelist Parish in Hoisington. They had a special dinner with family on their anniversary to celebrate. Their children and their spouses are: Shelley and Kevin Jaderborg; Suzy and Rob Willis; and Brett and Jennifer Schreiber. They also have seven grandchildren.

Phyllis and James Schmalz, members of Christ the King Parish, Kansas City, Kan., will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on July 15. The couple has three children: James Schmalz Jr., Kansas City, Mo.; Edward Schmalz, McLouth; and Deborah Schmalz, Kansas City, Kan. They also have one grandchild.

LOCAL NEWS 7

Paul and Ruby (Holenbeck) Seematter, members of Sacred Heart Parish, Paxico, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on July 29. The couple was married at Annunciation Church in Frankfort. They have five children (one deceased), 11 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. There will be a Mass for the couple on July 31 at Sacred Heart Church in Paxico.

Anniversary policy

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

Announcements are due by 5 p.m. eight days (Thursday) before the desired publication date. Announcements must be typed. They are for parishioners of Catholic parishes in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, or for those who have been resided in the archdiocese for a significant period of time Please include the following Information: • The couple’s names; their parish; the date they were married; church and city where they were married; what they are doing to celebrate; date of the celebration; names of children (if desired); number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; photo.

Photos that are e-mailed need to be at least 200 dpi. Mailed photos should be on photo paper and printed at a photo lab. Photos that are printed from home printers do not reproduce well.

Send notices to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, attn: anniversaries; or send an e-mail to: Todd@theleaven.com. If you would like your photo returned to you, please include a self-addressed stamped envelope.

Renewing their vows on the occasion of the celebration of their golden anniversaries as Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth are: (left to right) Sisters Susan Chase, Jean Anne Panisko, Helen Bristow, Maureen Hall, Paula Rose Jauernig, Marianna Bauder, Barbara Kushan, Carol Depner and Roberta O’Leary.

Nine SCLs mark golden anniversaries LEAVENWORTH — Nine Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth (SCLs) marked their golden jubilees on June 26 with a special Mass in Annunciation Chapel here, followed by a reception for family and friends in Ryan Sports Center.

The honorees included: • Sister Marianna Bauder, originally from Leavenworth, who has served in the health ministry for many years, is assuming a new position affiliated with the religious community and the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth Health System.

• Sister Helen Bristow, also originally from Leavenworth and a cousin to Sister Marianna, currently serves at Duchesne Clinic, Kansas City, Kan. • Sister Susan Chase, who taught in the sciences department at the University of Saint Mary for several years, is now retreat coordinator at Marillac Center.

• Sister Carol Depner, who served in education and housing, is now chaplain at St. Mary’s Hospital & Re-

gional Medical Center, Grand Junction, Colo.

• Sister Maureen Hall, an educator and pastoral minister who has served in community leadership for several years, is currently community director of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth.

• Sister Paula Rose Jauernig, originally from Leavenworth and a registered nurse, has worked in hospitals and as a clinical instructor.

• Sister Barbara Kushan, from Kansas City, Kan., is a lifelong educator who has taught at the elementary, secondary and college levels.

• Sister Roberta O’Leary, who worked for 10 years as director of religious education at St. Francis de Sales Parish in Lansing, is now assistant to the athletic director at the University of Saint Mary.

• Sister Jean Anne Panisko, a lifelong educator, was principal of Annunciation Parish in Denver for 29 years and is now serving as the SCL community treasurer.

Want to help someone heal from an abortion?

Call Toll Free 888-246-1504

Bloom

Transplanted

Pay Lay, a refugee from Burma, carts vegetables she raised to sell at the Juniper Gardens farmers’ market. Lay is a farmer in the New Roots for Refugees Program.

where you’re planted

K

By Jessica Langdon Leaven Staff

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Sitting on a rug on the floor of his classroom, three-yearold Caleb chattered away to his new best friend — Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann.

The archbishop had pulled up a chair next to Caleb in the children’s circle at St. Benedict’s Early Education Center in Kansas City, Kan. The June 27 visit was one stop on the archbishop’s tour to experience — on a very personal level — the work of Catholic Charities in action.

“Catholic Charities is really the place where the church is outward in its mission, serving others,” said Jan Lewis, president and CEO of Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas. “This was an opportunity for the archbishop to see the church in action, to see where our faith meets our brothers and sisters in need.”

Planting a seed June 27 dawned to stormy skies.

But the early downpour didn’t dampen the enthusiasm at the Juniper Gardens Farm in Kansas City, Kan. There, the first stop of the archbishop’s tour, women gathered their best vegetables from their plots of land and got them ready to sell.

The women — refugees all — were farming a plot of land that is changing their lives,

lives that had been marked by homelands rife with persecution and conflict.

Now, through Catholic Charities’ New Roots for Refugees program, they are putting down new roots in Kansas City, Kan., the seeds of independence in their very own hands.

Lewis gave Archbishop Naumann a tour of the fields being farmed, accompanied by Rachel Pollock, the New Roots for Refugees program coordinator.

The program grew out of an idea that refugee women proposed in 2005. They wanted to contribute to their families’ finances through small-scale farming, a skill many of them already possessed.

Catholic Charities worked with Cultivate Kansas City to develop such a program and, using land secured from the Kansas City, Kan., Housing Authority, broke ground on the Juniper Gardens Farm.

The farm features 17 plots of land. Sunflowers line the fence, and inside you’ll find everything from carrots and cucumbers to produce that is new to many palates, like kohlrabi or garlic scapes — a green, twisting part of the garlic plant that finds its way onto menus at fine restaurants.

The produce is then sold on Mondays at a market in the lot next to the farm.

Many walk to the market, which gives people who live nearby access to fresh foods they might not otherwise have.

One program that benefits people locally is the Beans and Greens initiative. It doubles the amount people can buy when they use food stamps at the market.

Photos by Doug Hesse

Clockwise from top left: Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann’s tour of Catholic Charities’ programs included a visit with little ones at St. Benedict’s Early Education Center and a trip to Juniper Gardens Farm, where he and Jan Lewis, the president and CEO of Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas, purchased some vegetables grown by Aye Nu. Refugee Ma Than prepares carrots for sale at the farmers market.

Charities’ programs yield help, nurture hope

People also come from farther away — especially those who seek vegetables native to their homelands.

“They come from all over to buy it,” Pollock said. “That’s one thing they’re most excited about: growing food for their own culture.”

The farmers take part in a communitysupported agriculture program, which means “share owners” pay a set fee and receive a regular share of vegetables. This guarantees some consistent income for the farmers. It also introduces share owners — including Lewis — to new tastes, such as roasted turnips and beets.

New Roots for Refugees brought in $60,000 in 2010. Pollock hopes to exceed that this year. Proceeds help refugees support their families and build up funds to continue farming on their own land as graduates of the program.

The women also build skills and confidence. They learn about consumer analysis, business plans, banking and reinvesting proceeds into business growth.

Pollock knows each woman well.

Pay Lay came from Burma.

“She’s been in the garden for four years,” Pollock said. “She has beautiful vegetables.”

“They’re beautifully presented,” observed Archbishop Naumann.

Lay has been in the United States since 2006. Some of her seven children are grown; the youngest is five.

Ray Nay Paw is in her second year in the garden. She sells vegetables at a farmers’ market in Overland Park.

“She sells a lot of vegetables,” Pollock

said.

Pelagie Mukarwigemera smiled as she trimmed some turnip plants. She sells her vegetables at still another farmers’ market.

The program is thriving, Pollock said.

“The participants really love what they’re doing,” she added.

“It’s helping people become independent utilizing their skills,” said Archbishop Naumann, who concluded his visit by buying vegetables from each refugee farmer.

“What a bargain,” he said, after buying $6 worth of broccoli, carrots and potatoes at one of the stands.

Growing as a couple Just as vegetables need care to thrive, so do marriages.

Archbishop Naumann’s next visit was with Christina Sell, program manager for Marriage for Keeps.

This program helps couples maintain happy marriages, raise happier children and build stronger families.

The program’s marriage enrichment workshops take place in group settings, using the “Within Our Reach” curriculum.

“Every component that we offer is offered in both Spanish and English,” Sell told the archbishop. And 75 percent of the participants are Catholic couples.

When he asked how long the couples have been married, Sell said that some are newlyweds, but some are “pushing

70.” Many come because they want to mentor other couples.

Archbishop Naumann also met with Mike Duxler, project director of the Catholic Charities Marriage for Keeps program.

“I’m just grateful that you’re helping couples,” he told Sell and Duxler. “Marriage is the foundation of the family.”

Raising a family Family is a big piece of the puzzle at St. Benedict’s Early Education Center in Kansas City, Kan. From movie nights to regular conferences, there are always ways for parents to take part in their children’s progress.

“If you can get the parents involved, it will help [the children] succeed in school,” center director Kasie Garlington explained to Archbishop Naumann.

The center serves children in Wyandotte County whose families have substantial financial needs. It aims to give

children care, support and strong foundations in education, to break the cycle of poverty.

“They know we have their children’s best interest at heart,” Garlington said.

On his tour of the facility, Archbishop Naumann visited several classrooms. In one, a woman rocked a baby.

In another, the archbishop talked with a boy about his progress on a puzzle and watched a frenzy of accessory trading at a table covered with Polly Pocket toys.

The center focuses on the social and emotional well-being of the children, who range in age from two weeks to 12 years. About 60 children come each day to St. Benedict’s.

And it has phenomenal teachers, Garlington said. They, in turn, very much appreciated a visit from the guy at the top.

“It means a lot to show he cares so much about our program, what we’re doing here, to come visit our facility,” Garlington said.

One thing that sets the center apart from many others is its teen parent pro-

gram, she said. Training includes everything from how to be a good parent to setting goals to establishing a “second virginity.” Even young women who have had a child, she explained further, can learn to see their bodies as sacred.

The center also fills an important role within the larger community. It has built a relationship with its neighbors. It has opened its doors for education on gang issues. It partners with Communities in Schools, which led to a Latin dance class last year, and soon will be yielding opportunities for area children to garden.

The kids aren’t always going to be within these walls, explained Garlington, so it’s important to foster good relationships to keep them safe and thriving anywhere they go.

And the kids love coming here. Garlington tells parents to expect little ones to cry when they arrive at first — but says to give her a week to a month. By then, the tears will come when it’s time to leave. She’s seen that come true time and time again.

Projects, artwork and photographs cover the walls of the center, a clear sign of how proud everyone is of their young stars.

Words like “perseverance,” “compassion” and “responsibility” also decorate the walls. They’re qualities the center hopes to instill in each child.

“Thanks for what you’re doing,” Archbishop Naumann told Garlington. “It’s impressive.”

After his tour of St. Benedict’s, he made one more stop — just a stone’s throw from center — to another part of the Catholic family. He delivered the fresh vegetables he’d bought from the refugee farmers to the Little Sisters of the Lamb.

Archbishop Naumann also had dinner

at Shalom House in Kansas City, Kan., Catholic Charities’ emergency shelter for men. He was able to interact with some of the men staying there, as well as with volunteers who come in to serve dinner.

“My goal is just to let [the archbishop] get out on the perimeter of where the church really is,” Lewis said.

In her opinion, one can’t help but fall in love with the people and the programs.

How you can help You can support the New Roots for Refugees program in these ways: Monday: KCK Greenmarket at Juniper Gardens Wednesday: KCK Greenmarket at Strawberry Hill Wednesday and Saturday: Overland Park Farmers’ Market Thursday: Briarcliff Farmers’ Market Friday: Northeast Farmers’ Market Saturday: Merriam Farmers’ Market Saturday: Brookside Farmers’ Market There is also a need for land where graduates can continue farming on their own.

Plenty of volunteer opportunities exist at the farm and in other ways.

Catholic high school students, for example, could help refugees with their English skills. Parishes could adopt families.

For information on Catholic Charities programs and to find out how to get involved, visit the Web site at: www. catholiccharitiesks.org.

10 NATION

THE LEAVEN • July 15, 2011

Professor suggests ways that all can reconnect to the land ST. PAUL, Minn. (CNS) — Chris Thompson, academic dean at the St. Paul Seminary and a board member of the National Catholic Rural Life Conference, says he would like to see all Catholic universities teach a course in agriculture to help Catholics understand their need to have a connection to the land and the environment. In an interview with The Catholic Spirit, newspaper of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, he offered these tips to help families and parishes cultivate a deeper appreciation for agriculture and God’s creation. For individuals and families: Start a backyard garden. “Learn with your children the experience of raising food, even if it’s at a modest level. This changes your attitude toward your land”; Eat dinner together as a family. “The dinner table is one of the most important pieces of real estate in the Catholic home. . . . It’s a fantastic place where the human person comes into contact with lower creation in a very intimate way”; Bake bread.

“Even if it’s no good, you’ll eat it with pride and joy because it’s something you’ve made and it’s something that has expressed the person.” For more ideas, visit the National Catholic Rural Life Conference Web site at: www.ncrlc.com.

Catholic ex-warden works to end ‘costly, ineffective’ penalty WASHINGTON (CNS) — Jeanne Woodford looks forward to the day when no one will have to do what she did four times: plan and carry out an execution. “They all weigh on me, as they do on everyone involved,” said Woodford, a former warden of San Quentin State Prison and now executive director of the national organization Death Penalty Focus. Although her upbringing as a Catholic prompted her moral opposition to capital punishment, she is working to bring it to an end for several “more practical” reasons, she said.

“It’s ineffective, it’s costly and it does so much harm to everyone involved.” July 2 marked the 35th anniversary of the reinstatement of the death penalty by the U.S. Supreme Court, which said that capital punishment is not inherently “cruel and unusual punishment” in violation of the Eighth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, as long as certain sentencing procedures are followed. Since that 1976 decision, 1,258 people have been executed, according to the Washington-based Death Penalty Information Center. More than 3,200 remain on death row. But according to a new report, the system in the United States remains just as arbitrary today as it was when the death penalty was put on hold in 1972, when Justice Potter Stewart said capital punishment was “cruel and unusual in the same way that being struck by lightning is cruel and unusual.”

Concrete Work

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

Harvey M. Kascht (913) 262-1555

THE LEAVEN • July 15, 2011

Church-run schools need public financial support

Order accuses Father Corapi of wrongs, falsehoods

By Nancy Frazier O’Brien

By John Thavis

Catholic News Service

WASHINGTON (CNS) — Father John A. Corapi was involved in “years of cohabitation” with a former prostitute, repeated abuse of alcohol and drugs and “serious violation” of his promise of poverty, according to a fact-finding team appointed by his religious order.

Father Corapi, who recently announced he would leave the priesthood because he could not get a “fair hearing” on misconduct allegations against him, has been ordered by the Society of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity to return to live at the order’s regional headquarters in Robstown, Texas, and to dismiss a lawsuit against the woman whose accusations prompted the investigation.

“Catholics should understand that [the order] does not consider Father John Corapi as fit for ministry,” said a July 5 news release from Father Gerard Sheehan, regional priest servant for the order, commonly known as SOLT. Although Father Corapi’s ministry “has inspired thousands of faithful Catholics,” the news release said, he is “now misleading these individuals through his false statements and characterizations.”

“It is for these Catholics that SOLT, by means of this announcement, seeks to set the record straight,” it added.

There was no immediate response to the announcement from Father Corapi.

The order said its three-member factfinding team had gathered information “from Father Corapi’s emails, various witnesses and public sources” and had concluded that the priest: • “Did have sexual relations and years of cohabitation (in California and Montana) with a woman known to him, when the relationship began, as a prostitute.”

• “Repeatedly abused alcohol and drugs.”

• “Has recently engaged in sexting activity with one or more women in Montana.”

• “Holds legal title to over $1 million in real estate, numerous luxury vehicles, motorcycles, an ATV, a boat dock and several motor boats, which is a serious violation of his promise of poverty as a perpetually professed member of this society.”

Catholic News Service

CNS photo/Bob Roller

INSTRUCTOR WORKS WITH YOGA CLASS HELD IN ROOM AT VIRGINIA CHURCH — Yoga instructor Donna Kocian works with her class in a room at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Triangle, Va., June 28.

Yoga can help Catholics connect more deeply with God

By Sara Angle

Catholic News Service

WASHINGTON (CNS) — Sister Margaret Perron, a Religious of Jesus and Mary, trades her habit and rolls out her mat for Father Tom Ryan’s yoga and Christian meditation class at St. Paul’s College in Washington.

Carefully choreographed yogaprayers allow participants to “embody a prayer,” Father Ryan tells his classes. He said that they may have been praying a prayer their whole life, but by saying the prayer in conjunction with different postures, they can more fully understand and appreciate the words they are saying.

Participants in Father Ryan’s class go through a series of yoga poses inspired by prayers as they pray and listen to traditional liturgical songs.

Father Ryan, a Paulist priest and author of several books that connect Christian spirituality to the body, is one of the nation’s foremost proponents of yoga as a tool for Christian prayer and spirituality. He has also produced the DVD “Yoga Prayer,” which is described as, “praying with your whole body.”

“This is the first time I have been encouraged to bring body, mind and spirit to prayer,” said Sister Margaret. Yoga allows her to let go of some things she has been carrying throughout her day.

“I think I have learned to pray in a very different way. You don’t need a lot of words to pray; it’s not all about words and formulas,” she said.

For years Catholics and other Christians have had qualms about practicing yoga, and conflicting information on its

origins and meaning could be to blame.

Although it has Eastern roots, many scholars say yoga existed on its own before being used in any religion.

“The practice of yoga is a way to pray,” explained Sister Margaret. “I see it as a way to being with God and stilling all those inner voices. I don’t see it as being apart from Christianity; I just see it as a way of entering into prayer.”

Still, many Catholic clergy and laypeople think that doing yoga can conflict with Catholicism because of yoga’s perceived connections to Hinduism and other Eastern religions.

A 1989 “Letter to the Bishops of the Catholic Church on Some Aspects of Christian Meditation,” signed by thenCardinal Joseph Ratzinger, offers an answer to the question of conflict between yoga and religion.

It states: “The majority of the ‘great religions’ which have sought union with God in prayer have also pointed out ways to achieve it. Just as the Catholic Church rejects nothing of what is true and holy in these religions, neither should these ways be rejected out of hand simply because they are not Christian. On the contrary, one can take from them what is useful so long as the Christian conception of prayer, its logic and requirements are never obscured. It is within the context of all of this that these bits and pieces should be taken up and expressed anew.”

“Physical exercises are but the skin of yoga,” said Father Ryan, “its sinews and skeleton are mental exercises that prepare the way for a transformation of consciousness which is always a gift of God and a work of grace.”

CNS photo/Goran Tomasevic, Reuters

WOMEN CARRY CROSSES IN JUBA — Sudanese women carry crosses as they rehearse for an Independence Day ceremony in Juba, Sudan, July 7. South Sudan split from the north July 9, creating Africa’s newest nation. Christianity and indigenous religions are most common in the south, whereas northern Sudan is primarily Muslim.

South Sudanese look toward independence, but church unity

By Francis Njuguna Catholic News Service

NAIROBI, Kenya (CNS) — Sudanese Cardinal Gabriel Zubeir Wako told bishops from East Africa that the Catholic Church will remain united when Southern Sudan becomes independent July 9.

“Politically, the nation will be divided into two — the old and the new Sudan — but, religiously, the two Sudans will remain united,” said the cardinal from Khartoum, the Sudanese capital.

During the meeting, Bishop Rudolf Deng Majak of Wau, Southern Sudan, told Catholic News Service that he and other bishops were looking forward to the birth of the new nation.

“I never thought that this would happen in our lifetime,” he said.

He told CNS the country’s liberation war of more than 20 years had resulted in massive killings, suffering and humiliation, but the fruit of the people’s labor was about to be seen.

Bishop Deng appealed to the church within and outside Africa to come help the Sudanese.

“We are short of everything . . . the church personnel, the clergy, religious men and women and professionally trained lay people. We are equally short of church structures such as churches, schools and hospitals,” he said.

Asked what his message would be to his fellow Sudanese as they await for the birth of their new nation, Bishop Deng was quick to say: “Hard work and readiness to reconcile to each other.

This would be very central in the building of the new nation.”

The two bishops attended the June 27-July 6 plenary of the Association of Member Episcopal Conferences in Eastern Africa, or AMECEA. Members include bishops’ conferences from Eritrea, Ethiopia, Malawi, Kenya, Tanzania, Sudan, Uganda and Zambia; Djibouti and Somalia are affiliate members.

In a statement at the end of the meeting, the bishops expressed solidarity with the new Republic of South Sudan, as it will be known, and said it should be a model of tolerance and unity in diversity.

“We pray that all categories of people and groups in the new Republic of South Sudan will lay down arms, embrace peace and work toward nationbuilding,” the bishops said.

They also said they were “saddened by the unending war in Somalia” and prayed for its people and for a peaceful resolution.

They committed themselves to establishing more schools — primary through university level — and to providing more chaplains to schools and military institutions.

The bishops also thanked the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops for its “generous initiative and willingness to work with AMECEA in various fields with the view to enhance capacitybuilding in our institutions.” The Africans pledged to make their institutions more transparent and said, “This spirit of brotherhood and solidarity will surely transform our regional, national and diocesan institutions for better.”

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — A Vatican official praised church-run schools as valuable components of modern education, saying they deserve public financial support and must not be muzzled on moral issues.

Archbishop Silvano Tomasi, addressing a U.N. meeting in Geneva July 6, said educational systems work best when they include participation by parents and various elements of civil society, including religious organizations.

In order for that to work, he said, “public financial resources must be made available in order to assure fairness” for those promoting alternative educational programs.

In carrying out its educational role, the state “should respect the choices that parents make for their children and avoid attempts at ideological indoctrination,” Archbishop Tomasi said.

He cited the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, which defends the freedom of parents to choose nonpublic schools and ensure the religious and moral education of their children in conformity with their own convictions.

“And this includes the right to make moral judgments on moral issues,” the archbishop said.

He said religious organizations are often better positioned to provide education to the most vulnerable children and families, including those in remote or rural areas, those with special needs or drop-outs.

Archbishop Tomasi noted that the Catholic Church has about 200,000 primary and secondary schools located in every continent, with about 58 million students and 3.5 million teachers.

“While protecting their identity, these schools welcome students from every ethnic and religious background and socio-economic class,” he said.

It’s not enough for schools to convey technical information, the archbishop added. The goal of education must include formation of the person and transmission of values like personal and social responsibility, a work ethic and a sense of solidarity with others.”

WORLD 11

Experts talk peace-building, church’s ‘best-kept secret’ ROME (CNS) — When Sudanese Bishop Paride Taban of Torit wanted to help stop traditional cattle raiding by rival groups of young men, he turned to the Catholic peacebuilding organization IKV Pax Christi from the Netherlands. The Bishop Paride Taban cattle raiding had become extremely dangerous and violent, and Pax Christi helped develop a program that would bring together the youth warriors from different rural communities to discuss the problem and come up with alternative ways of relating. After two conferences, participants were able to launch a peace and sports program called Playing for Peace. It engages the young people in a platform for debate and involves them in building a sports infrastructure. The program in Sudan was described by Marie Dennis, co-president of Pax Christi International, at a July 1 conference in Rome on Catholic peace-building. Sponsored by the U.S.-based Catholic Peacebuilding Network, it brought together leading Catholic academics, Vatican officials and diplomats to examine the church’s role in preventing and resolving conflicts and reconciling societies.

Vatican: Budget surplus for 2010; worldwide giving down VATICAN CITY (CNS) — The Vatican reported a budget surplus for the first time in four years in 2010, but said contributions from Catholics and dioceses around the world had gone down. The budget of the Holy See, which includes offices of the Roman Curia and related agencies, ended 2010 with a surplus of about $13.1 million.

The separate budget of Vatican City State, which includes the Vatican Museums, ended 2010 with a surplus of about $28 million, according to a Vatican statement July 2. The figures were released following a three-day meeting of a council of cardinals charged with reviewing Vatican finances. The statement said the Vatican’s financial picture continued to improve, but it cautioned that the global financial picture still presented “elements of uncertainty and instability.” Worldwide giving to the pope decreased in 2010, the statement said. Peter’s Pence collected $67.7 million, compared to $82.5 million in 2009. In addition, the contributions of dioceses amounted to about $27.4 million, compared to $31.5 million the previous year. Contributions from other institutions, including the Vatican bank, added about $73 million to the pope’s funds, which are used to support works of charity and mission around the world.

Want to help someone heal from an abortion?

Call Toll Free 888-246-1504

12 CLASSIFIEDS Employment Director - The Diocese of Wichita is seeking an outstanding individual to serve as director for The Lord’s Diner. This individual will be accountable for the financial, operational and administrative aspects of The Lord’s Diner and will provide leadership consistent with the Gospel values of the diner. Qualified candidates must: be a practicing Catholic who relates well to people of all faiths and backgrounds; have a bachelors degree along with 5 - 7 years experience in management; have knowledge of and commitment to Gospel values and a desire to serve the poor; have excellent interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills; have previous experience in budgeting, planning, supervision and successfully working with volunteers; be an energetic, self-motivated individual committed to the mission of the diner, with strong integrity and the ability to inspire others; food service and social service experience would be helpful. Interested applicants may submit resume, references and salary requirements, via e-mail, to: seilert@catholic dioceseofwichita.org. Application deadline is July 20.

Maintenance assistant - Villa St. Francis, a 170bed Catholic long-term care facility located in Olathe, is seeking a maintenance assistant with at least three years experience. Some HVAC and plumbing experience preferred, but will train right candidate. EOE. Apply at: Villa St. Francis, 16600 W. 126th St., Olathe KS 66062, or fax resume to (913) 829-5399.

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

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

Child care coordinator - St. Ann Young Child Center, Prairie Village, is seeking to fill this position for its extended care program. Hours are 3 - 6 p.m., Mon. - Fri. Must be at least 21 years of age and have a minimum of 12 college credit hours in early childhood or elementary education. Starting pay is $12 per hour.

If interested, call Tati at (913) 362-4660.

Preschool Spanish teacher - St. Ann Young Child Center, Prairie Village, is seeking a part-time Spanish teacher. For information, call Tati at (816) 716-4676.

Full-time lead teacher - Prince of Peace Early Education Center, Olathe, is seeking a lead teacher to work with four-year-olds. Hours are Mon. - Fri., 7 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. A degree in early education or experience is preferred. We offer a competitive salary and benefits package. Contact Amanda Khemraj at (913) 829-2728.

Business/technology teacher - Bishop Ward High School, Kansas City, Kan., is seeking a faith-filled full-time teacher for the 2011 - 12 school year to teach a variety of business and technology classes. Must have appropriate state certification. Interested applicants may submit a cover letter and resume, via e-mail, to Dr. Judy Warren at: jwarren@wardhigh.org.

Summer job - Looking for a reliable, strong, hard- working high school boy with reliable transportation to work in construction 5 or 6 days a week, 8 - 10 hours per day. Prefer someone that intends on coming back each summer. No experience needed. If you can handle the heat, I will teach you a trade! Call Josh at (913) 709-7230.

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

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

Services Computer repair and upgrades/virus, spyware & malware removal - Microsoft certified, 11+ yrs. experience. Member of Sacred Heart Parish. Call Matt at (816) 876-6619 or send an e-mail to him at: mattcomputerfix@gmail.com.

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

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

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

THE LEAVEN • JULY 15, 2011 Counseling - Topeka Marriage and family, child, teen, personal Shunga Creek Mental Health Call Ken Zweig, LSCSW at (785) 969-5308.

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

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

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

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

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 familyowned and based in Lenexa. Call Benefits of HomeSenior Care at (913) 422-1591 or visit our Web site at: www.benefitsofhome.com.

Seeking caregiver - Former Corpus Christi, Lawrence, parishioner returning from out of state needs caretaker for her elderly mother during school hours, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m., Mon. - Fri., beginning in August. Client is mobile, and there are no housekeeping duties.

References required. Interested in full- and part-time applicants. Call (716) 544-0397.

Caregiver – Seeking to care for an elderly person or couple. Willing to do housework, including cooking, cleaning, and laundry. Also willing to run errands and drive to appointments. Available days/nights/ weekends. References. Call Emma at (913) 422-0733.

Retired nurse - Available to care for your loved one. Prefer nights; will work days and weekends, too.

Will consider live-in. References; salary negotiable. Call (913) 579-5276.

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

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

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

Swalms Organizing Service - Basement, attic, garage, office, shop – any room organized. Items sorted, grouped, boxed and labeled; areas clean when finished. 20 years experience. $30/hour. Spring special: first two hours FREE with any organizing job lasting one day or longer. To view pictures of current jobs, visit the Web site at: www.swalms.com. Tillar Swalm (913) 375-9115. Insured!

Everything plumbing - Leaks, faucets, toilets, sinks, disposals, repairs and replacements. Over 20 years experience. Fully licensed. Service anytime – days/nights/wknds. Contact Mike at (913) 488-4930.

Member of Church of the Ascension Parish, Overland Park.

Roofing insurance specialist - free estimates, roofing repairs if needed. Hail/wind damage inspections. Insured and reasonable. Call Rob (913) 2064524.

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! Leadcertified and insured! Serving the metro since 1997. Call (913) 768-6655.

THE LEAVEN • JULY 15, 2011 Carpet direct – We cut out the middle man and bring the showroom to you! The best place to see your flooring is in your own home or office. Save 40 - 80% on carpet and hard surfaces. Residential and commercial. For a free estimate, call Amanda at (913) 742-4003.

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) 4915837 or (913) 579-1835. E-mail: smokeycabin@hotmail. com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.

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

Brick masons - Installation and repair of all types of masonry work — brick, stone, and concrete. 17 years of residential and commercial experience. Small and large jobs accepted. KC Metro area. For a free quote, call Jim or John at (913) 485-4307.

Adept Home Improvements Where quality still counts!

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

(913) 599-7998 Interior and exterior painting and wallpaper removal - 30-plus years experience. Quality work; excellent references; reasonable rates. Senior discount.

Member of St. Ann Parish, Prairie Village. Call Joe at (913) 620-5776.

Father and son team - We do roofing, windows, doors, siding, brick masonry, all types of wood rot, fences and decks, retaining walls, landscaping and concrete. You name it, we can do it — no job to big or small. Reasonable prices; fully insured. Call Josh at (913) 709-7230.

Electrician - Free estimates; reasonable rates. JoCo and south KC metro. Call Pat at (913) 963-9896.

Master electrician - Licensed in Missouri and Kansas. 35 years experience in residential and commercial electrical needs. Call Rick, L & M Electric, at (913) 3621501 or (816) 781-1501.

Custom countertops - Laminates installed within 5 days. Cambria, granite, and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee.

EL SOL Y LA TIERRA *Commercial & residential * Lawn renovation* Mowing * Clean-up and hauling * Dirt grading/installation * Landscape design * Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!!

Call Lupe at (816) 252-3376

For Sale “Journeys of Ursuline . . . Academy & College, Paola, Kansas” - The latest publication by the Miami County Historical Museum. This hardback, 238-page book includes a brief history, plus lots of pictures, of campus, former students, teachers and Paola citizens whose lives were enriched by the Ursuline community of nuns. Includes many personal memory letters. $35, plus shipping. To purchase, call (913) 294-4940 or visit the Web site at: www.think miamicountyhistory.com.

For sale - Two-year-old Kenmore frost-free deep freezer. Like new. $450. Call Mary at (785) 542-2214.

For sale – Prime space in the Prince of Peace Mausoleum at Resurrection Cemetery, Lenexa. Regardless if it is raining, snowing, icy or blistering hot, you may visit your loved one in this space. Retail value $7434.

Will consider all reasonable offers. Call Mary at (913) 642-2628.

Max’s rosaries - Custom-made, locally for all occasions – first communion, confirmation, baptism, graduation. Rosary bracelets and beaded earrings too! I also de repairs. Member of the Church of the Ascension, Overland Park. Call (913) 839-3106.

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 Rent

July

Lipovac Orchestra from 7 - 10 p.m. on July 23 at Mejak Hall, 513 Ohio Ave., Kansas City, Kan. Proceeds will benefit the general maintenance fund. Tickets cost $12. Food will be available. For information or reservations, call Julie at (913) 268-7640.

A memorial liturgy for deceased loved ones will be held at 8 a.m. on July 16 at Curé of Ars Church, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood. The bereavement ministry will have its monthly meeting following Mass in the Father Burak Room. The topic will be: “Choices During Grief.” For information, call (913) 6492026.

St. Ann Church, Effingham, will host its annual parish picnic on July 23. A barbecued pork and fried chicken dinner will be served from 4:30 - 7:30 p.m.

The cost is: $8 for adults; $4 for children ages 5 - 10; children 4 and under eat for free. There will also be bingo beginning at 4:30 p.m., an auction at 7 p.m., and a dance from 9 p.m. - midnight.

Office space available - Great location in the Ranchmart area of Prairie Village. Ideal for start-ups, professional and small businesses. Flexible terms.

Call Marek at (913) 461-4491.

Overland Park - Tastefully decorated 2 BR with full basement, one-car garage for rent in lovely Greenbriar.

Rent is $850 per month. Includes lawn service, pool and exercise facility. To view, call (913) 383-1343.

Real Estate Live near St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Overland Park - Three amazing homes within a tenminute drive. For information or to view any of these properties, call Myra Kanatzar, Prudential Kansas City Realty, at (913) 636-6369.

12705 Richards - One-and-a-half-story home with 5 BR and 4-1/2 BA with in-ground pool that backs to golf course. Mid $600s.

13114 W. 127th Terr. - One-and-a-half-story home with possible 6 BR and 4-1/2 BA is updated to perfection.

Low $600s.

12605 Nieman - One-and-a-half-story classic Colonial with 4 BR and 3-1/2 BA with a lovely treed yard. Low $400s.

Kansas City, Kan., home FSBO - 2407 Woodend Ave. 3 BR, 1 BA, spacious living room, one-car garage.

In Our Lady of Unity Parish. $86,000. Call John at (913) 238-3141.

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

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

Roommate Female college roommate(s) needed - To share house near KU football stadium in Lawrence for the 2011 - 12 school year. 2 BR, 1 BA, large kitchen and living area, off-street parking, one-car garage, washer and dryer. Downstairs bedroom $400 (10’ x 11’) or share upstairs bedroom (11’ x 13’) for $350 each. Call Cindy at (913) 897-0546.

Wanted to buy Will buy firearms and related accessories - One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee. ***WANTED*** I buy coins, older watches, silverware, slot machines, old rifles and shotguns, stoneware crocks and jugs, old furniture from basement or attic.

Call Chris at (913) 593-7507 or (913) 642-8269 Want to buy – Well maintained 1990s automobile.

Call Bill (913) 403-9191.

Vacation

16

17 St. Augustine Church, Fidelity, will host its annual parish picnic on July

A bereavement support group meeting will be held at 7 p.m. on July 21 at Prince of Peace Church, 16000 W. 143rd St., Olathe, in the faculty lounge.

Mary Kay Whitacre will present “Blessed Are You Who Mourn, For One Day You Will Laugh.” For information, call Donna Kaberlein at (913) 829-5320.

21-24 Theater at Vis, a youth ministry of Visitation Parish in

Kansas City, Mo., will present the musical “Oklahoma” at 7 p.m. on July 21 - 23 and at 1 p.m. on July 24 in the school theater, located at 5134 Baltimore, Kansas City, Mo. Tickets cost $8 for adults; $6 for children ages 12 and under.

23

The St. Veronica Lodge at Holy Family Church will sponsor a matching funds dance featuring music by the Don

27 St. Joseph Church, Flush, will host its annual picnic on July 27. A chicken dinner will be served from 5 - 8 p.m. in the air-conditioned parish hall.

The Keeler Women’s Center will offer “Time Management – Balancing Family, Work, and Everything Else” from 1 2:30 p.m. on July 27 at 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/kwc.

28

The Christian Widow and Widowers Organization will host a potluck dinner at 5 p.m. on July 28 in the Formation Room at Most Pure Heart Church, 3601 S.W. 17th St., Topeka. For information, call (785) 272-0055.

The Keeler Women’s Center will offer “Plate or Pyramid? America’s New Dietary Guidelines,” a nutrition presentation, from 9:30 - 11 a.m. on July 28 at 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www. mountosb.org/kwc.

Naples, Florida - Furnished 2 BR, 2 BA condo. Located two blocks from the beach and two blocks off 5th Ave. South. Rent or sell. To learn more, call Andy at (239) 261-6233.

Branson condo nightly rental - 2 king BRs, 2 BA; sleeps 6. Sun porch overlooks public golf course. Walkin level (no steps), flat screen TVs, DVD player, filtered water and fully equipped kitchen. Two blks. from the Hwy. 76 strip. Easy to get to shows, Wal-Mart, groceries, dining. No smoking; no pets. Parishioners of Holy Cross, Overland Park. Call (913) 851-8886.

701 North 94th Street * Kansas City, Kansas 66112 * (913) 334-3366 Funeral Home * Cemetery * Cremation Services

Misc.

Wanted – College- or high school-aged female to give my 10-year-old daughter swimming and tennis lessons this summer in the Prairie Village area. Send an e-mail to: bridgettravel@gmail.com.

Purebred Golden Retriever - Free to a good, loving home. Hunter is almost 3 years old, neutered and current on all shots. He is about 100 pounds, sweet, beautiful, lighter golden in color. If interested, call (913) 400-7218.

W

30

The Leavenworth region of ACCW will host a quarterly luncheon and meeting at noon on July 30 in the Leintz Community Room, 4701 10th Ave., Leavenworth. For information, call (913) 682-8899.

31

Misc.

St. Pius X Parish, 5601 Woodson Ave., Mission, will host a Fatima rosary rally at 3 p.m. on July 17. Fifteen decades of the rosary will be prayed, followed by Benediction and enrollment in the brown scapular.

21

Overland Park, will host a luncheon and card party from 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. on July 29. The cost is $10 per person. To RSVP, call Helen at (913) 381-4295 or Doris at (913) 381-2781.

St. Francis Xavier Parish, 301 E. James, Mayetta, will host a celebration of the enthronement of the Divine Mercy image at 3 p.m. on July 31 with Benediction and a Holy Hour. A reception will follow. For information, call (785) 246-1338 .

17. A family-style chicken and ham dinner will be served beginning at 4:30 p.m.

The cost is: $8 for adults; $4 for children ages 4 - 10 years; children 3 years and under eat for free. There will be a cakewalk, bingo, a bounce house and more.

A healing Mass, sponsored by archdiocesan charismatic prayer groups, will be held at 7:30 p.m. on July 21 at Curé of Ars Church, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood. Father Bill Fisher will preside; fellowship follows. For information, call (913) 649-2620.

29 The St. Benedict Circle of Holy Cross Church, 8311 W. 93rd St.,

e have the newest and nicest funeral home in Wyandotte County, right across the street from St. Patrick’s Church. Personalize a Funeral, Cemetery or Memorial Service all from one office, instead of driving all over town making plans. We even accept many pre-arranged plans from other funeral homes. To receive a free Personal Planning Guide, call or stop in today.

The Hayden High School class of 1961 will host a 50th reunion on Aug. 5 - 6. A social will be held on Aug. 5 at 6 p.m. in the school cafeteria, located at 400 Gage Blvd., Topeka. On Aug. 6, a special Mass celebrated by Msgr. Vincent Krische will be held at 6 p.m. at Most Pure Heart of Mary Church, 3601 S.W. 17th St., Topeka. A formal dinner at the Topeka Country Club will follow at 7:30 p.m. For information or to RSVP, contact Joan Starr Rossetto at (785) 233-7350 or Carol Butler Deghand at (785) 286-1153.

Notre Dame de Sion High School, 10631 Wornall, Kansas City, Mo., will offer a soccer camps for girls entering 6th - 8th grades from 9 - 11 a.m. on July 18 - 21. The cost is $75. For information or to register, visit the Web site at: www. sionstorm.com or send an e-mail to Matt Darby at: mdarby@rockhursths.edu.

Divorced? Widowed? Beginning Experience Weekend gently helps people move through their loss to a new beginning in their lives. The next weekend for the Kansas City area will be July 22 - 24 at the Heartland Center, Parkville Mo. For information or for registration material, call John at (913) 219-3465 in Kansas City, Michelle at (785) 478-3481 in Topeka, Jerry at (785) 843-2079 in Lawrence,

CALENDAR 13

or visit the Web site at: www.beginning experience.org.

The Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan., will offer free haircuts to women preparing for an interview or seeking employment. To schedule an appointment with a licensed beautician, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/ kwc.

Sophia Center, 751 S. 8th St., Atchison, will host a silent directed retreat from 4 p.m. on Aug. 2 to 1 p.m. on Aug. 7.

Come away to the quiet of a monastic setting and experience the sacred through personal prayer and daily meetings with a certified spiritual director. Give yourself time to listen to the deep desires of your heart, with opportunities for daily centering prayer, shared lectio and a choice of clay, art or tai chi experiences. The cost is $350. For information or to register, call (913) 360-6151 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/sophia.html.

A support group for women dealing with any type of addiction, at any stage of recovery, will meet from 6 - 7 p.m. on Tuesday evenings at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/kwc.

An iconography workshop sponsored by Good Shepherd Church, 12800 W. 75th St., Shawnee, will be offered from Aug. 4 - 7. This contemplative workshop will be presented by master iconographer, Elizabeth Zeller, in the traditional method of egg tempera. The cost of $495 includes instruction and all materials. The registration deadline is July 26. For information, call Lisa Cummings at (913) 221-5928 or send an email to her at: lrckc@sbcglobal.net, or call Elizabeth Zeller at (816) 833-3312 or send an e-mail to her at: elizabeth@ elizabethzeller.com.

Do you or your loved one need support to break free from pornography, infidelity, or lust? The My House Men’s Group provides prayer and accountability for sexual integrity. Sam Meier, MA, LPC, is available for men’s groups and counseling; call him at (913) 647-0378, or send an e-mail to him at: smeier@archkck.org. The women’s group provides hope and healing for women who are dealing with their loved one’s struggles. Contact Beth Meier at (913) 647-0379, or send an e-mail to her at: bmeier@archkck.org.

14 COMMENTARY

THE LEAVEN • July 15, 2011

THE LEAVEN • July 15, 2011

Mark my words

Catholic Press Association Award Winner 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 SIXTEENTH WEEK of ordinary time July 17 SIXteenth sunday in ordinary time Wis 12: 13, 16-19; Ps 86: 5-6, 9-10, 15-16; Rom 8: 26-27; Mt 13: 24-43 July 18 Camillus de Lellis, priest Ex 14: 5-18; (Ps) Ex 15: 1-6; Mt 12: 38-42 July 19 Tuesday Ex 14:21-15:1; (Ps) Ex 15: 8-10, 12, 17; Mt 12: 46-50 July 20 Apollinaris, bishop, martyr Ex 16: 1-5, 9-15; Ps 78: 18-19, 23-28; Mt 13: 1-9 July 21 Lawrence of Brindisi, priest, doctor Ex 19: 1-2, 9-11, 16-20b; (Ps) Dn 3: 52-56; Mt 13: 10-17 July 22 Mary Magdalene Ex 20: 1-17; Ps 19: 8-11; Jn 20: 1-2, 11-18 July 23 Bridget of Sweden, religious Ex 24: 3-8; Ps 50: 1-2, 5-6, 14-15; Mt 13: 24-30

“S

Do you listen with your eyes?

o, are you just beat?”

It was a simple question addressed to a waitress.

On a recent sultry summer night, I was at the Cheesecake Factory on the Plaza in Kansas City, Mo. I was seated in the restaurant’s outside courtyard, right next to its huge fountain. It was still hot, but not unbearable, and the sound of the splashing water was refreshing.

The waitress had a pleasant, but tired, smile. She seemed almost relieved at my question and said, “Yes, I’m exhausted. I’ve been here today since we opened.”

It turns out she’d spent her whole shift working the courtyard. That meant experiencing hours in the blazing heat, carrying heavy and hot plates of food, constantly rushing in and out of air conditioning, standing on a hard surface, etc.

“And,” she continued, “I feel so bad because I just really messed up with that table. (She indicated one right next to mine. ) Sometimes, you just can’t seem to do anything right.

They’re visiting from Germany, and they asked for bread and I forgot that and . . . . well, nothing went right for them.”

As a former waiter myself, I felt for her. “Hey, it happens,” I said. “It’s OK. Hang in there.”

I’m happy to report that I had a great experience that night. The waitress dropped by often to keep my water glass filled and to make sure that all was fine with the food. (It was: The chicken di pana was delicious.) It also seemed like she’d gotten her “second wind” from our short conversation and was going about her duties with a lighter heart.

Sitting there, I thought back to a

story I’d told a couple of weeks ago at Mass. It was about a little boy talking to his busy mother.

At one point in their conversation, the boy says, “Mama, please listen to me. But this time, do so with your eyes.”

That comment stopped the mother in her tracks. Although I’m sure that she was listening to her son, she was also probably multitasking: cooking dinner, folding laundry, or answering e-mails. The little boy was asking his mom to do something that is getting harder and harder in our busy world: pause, focus and be present.

It seems to me that we’re all trying to cram too much into too little time.

The result is that we’re constantly impatient, scattered and stressed out.

This feeling, in turn, frequently translates into rude behavior. We begin to turn people into “things” — “stuff” that we can manipulate and abuse according to our whims.

The little boy in the story was reminding his mom that he wasn’t a “thing,” just some background noise like a blaring TV or radio. He was a person, with feelings, deserving of attention and respect.

You know, there might be a hidden blessing in this oppressive heat that we’ve been experiencing: It can force us to change our usual way of doing things and rediscover the pleasure and

necessity of pausing, focusing and being present.

A handy place to begin is by listening “with our eyes.” Looking at people that you are conversing with is one of the highest complements you can give them. Your attentiveness says that they are what’s most important in the world at that time. Focusing not only honors the person you are with, it helps us to truly live in the present moment.

Actually, that’s what prayer is all about: taking time to pause, focus and listen with our eyes. If we’re honest with ourselves, we don’t do this very often . . . or very well. For example, when we come to Mass on the weekends, don’t we usually bring our cell phones with us? And even though we have them set on vibrate, aren’t we distracted when we feel them buzz with a phone call, some e-mail or a text? Aren’t we tempted to immediately check out of praying and check in on the message that just arrived? Is it any wonder, then, that we feel that God is distant, our faith is stagnant and our relationships are unfulfilling?.

Most of us don’t need any more distractions. I’ve started to leave my cell phone at home when I’m celebrating Mass. Sure, it’s a little bit inconvenient when people want to make an appointment after Mass, but going “phoneless” gives me the freedom to pause, focus and be truly present. I’ve found that when you really pay attention to others, it pays off. They respond in kind — and kindly — to you.

And that’s what is so funny about this business of listening with your eyes: It spreads and actually changes your heart and soul — and the world — as well.

SEVENTEENTH WEEK of ordinary time

second thoughts on the second reading

July 24 SEVENTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME 1 Kgs 3: 5, 7-12; Ps 119: 57, 72, 76-77, 127-130; Rom 8: 28-30; Mt 13: 44-52 July 25 JAMES, APOSTLE 2 Cor 4: 7-15; Ps 126: 1-6; Mt 20: 20-28 July 26 Joachim and Anne, parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ex 33: 7-11; 34: 5b-9, 28; Ps 103: 6-13; Mt 13: 36-43 July 27 Wednesday Ex 34: 29-35; Ps 99: 5-7, 9; Mt 13: 44-46 July 28 Thursday Ex 40: 16-21, 34-38; Ps 84: 3-6, 8-11; Mt 13: 47-53 July 29 Martha Lv 23: 1, 4-11, 15-16, 27, 34b-37; Ps 81: 3-6, 10-11; Jn 11: 19-27 July 30 Peter Chrysologus, bishop, doctor of the church Lv 25: 1, 8-17; Ps 67: 2-3, 5, 7-8; Mt 14: 1-12

M

What is the purpose of speaking in tongues?

ost Catholics, except those in the charismatic movement, associate speaking in tongues with certain Protestant sects, along with handling rattlesnakes, rolling around on the floor and other bizarre behavior.

At the same time, St. Paul makes it clear in his writings that the phenomenon of speaking in tongues existed in some of the early Christian communiSIXteenth ties. He writes at sunday in length about speakordinary time Rom 8: 26-27 ing in tongues in 1 Cor 12.

When someone speaks in tongues, it will sound like unintelligible gibberish to others. Even the person himself or herself will not understand what is being said. It seems as though an outside force has taken over the person and is using that person as a means to communicate. But if no one can understand the communication, then who is the person speaking to?

We find the answer to that question in Sunday’s second reading, Rom 8:2627. According to St. Paul, it is the Holy Spirit who is speaking in unintelligible speech. “The Spirit himself intercedes with inexpressible groanings.” And if

no human being understands what the Spirit is saying, it really doesn’t matter, because it is God (the Father) who is being addressed. The Holy Spirit is praying on our behalf. “The Spirit comes to the aid of our weakness, for we do not know how to pray as we ought.” Not only do we not know how to pray as we ought, we do not even know what to pray for. But God does.

And so does the Spirit, even before the Spirit utters it in prayer, because the Spirit prays according to God’s will: “And the one who searches hearts [God] knows what is the intention of the Spirit, because he [the Spirit] intercedes for the holy ones [us] according to God’s will.”

We might wonder, if God already knows what is being prayed for why bother to pray? Similarly, if what is being prayed for already is according to God’s will, what does it matter, that we

pray? But isn’t that what we pray for, when we say the Our Father: “thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”

It turns out, that the purpose of prayer is not so much as to change God’s mind, as it is to enter into his will. When we allow the Spirit to pray through us, we are immersing ourselves in the communication between the Spirit and God (the Father), the communication that goes on among the members of the Holy Trinity.

Most Catholics, except those involved in the charismatic movement, are not familiar with praying in tongues. They do not think in terms of praying in the Spirit. At the same time, the traditional formula for the collect, or opening prayer of the Mass, tells us that we pray to God the Father, through Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit. In other words, we address our prayer to God the Father, through Jesus Christ, and motivated by the Holy Spirit. We always pray with the Holy Spirit, even if we are not praying in tongues. The presence of the Holy Spirit in us makes our prayer effective and fruitful.

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

Local news 15

Teen effort fueled by faith, random singing and cupcakes Continued from page 1 groups helped out at multiple sites — even an 135-year-old home being considered for the National Register of Historic Places.

Initially, Marcia Canaday, who owns the home, was reluctant to send in an application for aid. She even decided against applying at one point. So Ruth, her 11-year-old daughter, decided to send it in for her mom with a note saying: “Mom said don’t do this, but we really need the help.”

Although she was initially reluctant, Canaday now can’t thank the volunteers enough. She even baked them a batch of her “specialty” to thank them — raspberry cupcakes with sour cream fudge frosting.

“I prayed a lot, honestly,” said Canaday. “I prayed that I would be a good steward. And then people showed up and the application showed up. God works in interesting ways. This really is the answer to my prayers.”

Not only are the homeowners benefiting from this experience, the campers have also grown in faith and stewardship over their week of service. “[The camp has] been really great,” said Jane Webb, a senior at Blue Valley High School in Stilwell. “Marcia is just so great, and I love talking to her. Getting to see how much this means to her really helps make the work more worth it.”

According to Susan Riordan, a camp leader and teacher at Maur Hill-Mount Academy in Atchison, the campers still work with energy and determination, even without affirmation from the homeowners. They keep up their morale with

Photo by Doug Hesse

Homeowner Marcia Canaday was so pleased with the work of the teen Prayer and Action volunteers, who weeded her yard and painted her house, that she reciprocated with her own gift: raspberry cupcakes with sour cream fudge frosting. impromptu dances and singalongs.

“It’s difficult when the homeowner isn’t out there showing their appreciation, so the kids have to really build each other up,” Riordan said. “They really have to keep each other going.”

And although the teens will eventually leave camp and return home, Morris hopes that the lessons learned will remain with the campers.

“The young people are challenged with something that takes them deeper

into their own faith — that makes them look deeper at who God is calling them to be,” Morris said. “They really bring that transformation back, hopefully to their community and daily lives, and start to live that out on a daily basis.”

16 local news

THE LEAVEN • July 15, 2011

Camp Tekakwitha

Celebrity

Catie Little poses with Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann while Emily Koca takes a photo during the archbishop’s visit to Camp Tekakwitha on June 27.

Photos by Susan McSpadden

Holy Ninja

The archbishop joins a game of “ninja” with campers Sam Coup (in black), Luke Hafner (background) and Billy Hess (in blue). The game tests defensive skills.

celebrate

Taking on his more traditional role, the archbishop delivers his homily as he celebrates Mass for the kids at the camp in Williamsburg.

counselors

During a break in the camp action, Archbishop Naumann visits with camp counselors Liz Halfman, a member of St. Joseph Parish in St. Louis, and archdiocesan seminarian Thomas Maddock, a member of Holy Spirit Parish in Overland Park .