07 20 18 Vol. 40 No. 2

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 40, NO. 2 | JULY 20, 2018

Special-needs family camp = faith, fun in the sun

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

It’s all smiles as Luke Musick, 7, from Olpe rides his horse alongside his parents, Darin and Elaine, and camp counselor Matt Wilson. This is the archdiocese’s first-ever camp for families with special-needs members at Camp Tekakwitha in Williamsburg. were eager to spend both spiritual and outdoor activity time together. Frank and Mary Cay Tokic of St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood attended ILLIAMSBURG — Seven fam- the camp with their 22-year-old son Nick, who has ilies and three days — it was Down syndrome.

“The camp created an opportunity to pray togetha recipe for respite on the grounds of Prairie Star Ranch er,” Mary Cay said. “We’ve always gone to retreats separately and have never had the opportunity to here.

The ranch is the site of the attend a marriage retreat, because we had to tag team so that someone could be with Nick.” archdiocese’s Camp Tekakwitha, which hosts a vaAs a result, Frank and Mary Cay experienced riety of spiritual and adventure camp retreats for many “firsts” at the camp, inyouth and families alike. cluding Mary Cay’s rookie zipRecently, the ranch served line experience (as captured on as the backdrop to the archvideo by Frank), long hikes and diocese’s first special-needs “I KNOW JESUS DIED FOR even tropically dressed beverfamily camp. Tom Racunas, the ages in a luau-style setting by lead consultant for the archdiHER, TOO. AND JUST LIKE the camp’s lake. ocese’s special-needs ministry, They knew of the camp’s organized the camp with the HE PURSUES ME, appeal from their older two encouragement of Archbishop HE HASN’T STOPPED Joseph F. Naumann, vicar genboys. But now, they could exeral Father Gary Pennings and perience it together, and Nick PURSUING HER EITHER.” Deacon Dana Nearmyer. could experience it with peers.

“It had always been the arch“Our two older boys came bishop’s and Deacon Dana’s hope to do something here when they were in middle school, and they for families raising children with special needs,” each had a story to tell of the experience,” Frank said Racunas. told the other couples during a group discussion on “Once the special-needs ministry started,” he goodness.

“Now Nick is going to have a story,” he continued. added, “one of the first questions they asked me was, ‘Would you be willing to start a family special-needs “That’s the beauty. The challenge now becomes how camp?’” >> See “CAMP” on page 5 It wasn’t hard to fill camp vacancies. Families

By Susan Fotovich McCabe Special to The Leaven

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LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Carly Gartner, Olathe, climbs the rock wall at Camp Tekakwitha.

JULY 20, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

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CATHOLIC DOCTORS, SCIENTISTS WARN OF PILL’S HARMFUL EFFECTS ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN

Is ‘the pill’ good for you?

C

ertain voices have been propagating the narrative that hormonal contraception has health benefits beyond pregnancy prevention. While we do not pretend to know their motives for doing so, we do want to share our judgment on the scientific merit of such assertions.

We Catholic health care providers and biological scientists are motivated to speak to you, the people of the church, by our desire for the truth. You have not been adequately informed of the health risks from contraceptive hormones. In the last decade, these risks have become only more evident, with important new and increasingly substantial findings.

Cancer The World Health Organization lists combined oral contraception (containing estrogen and progestin) as a group 1, or “carcinogenic to humans,” cancer-causing agent. While this does not imply that this type of hormonal contraception (HC) is as likely to cause cancer as the most risky group 1 carcinogens, this is the group with the strongest evidence for carcinogenicity and includes asbestos, radon and tobacco.

Let’s break this down.

In a study involving 1.8 million women, the New England Journal of Medicine last Dec. 7 published that “the risk of breast cancer was higher among women who currently or recently used contemporary hormonal contraceptives than among women who had never used hormonal contraceptives,” including the levonorgestrel IUD, by 20 percent. HC risk is particularly concerning for the aggressive and difficult to treat triple negative breast cancer. In a study by the National Cancer Institute and others published in 2009, women with triple negative breast cancer were 150 percent more likely to have taken oral contraception (OC) for at least a year; and this risk rose to 320 percent for those 40 years old or younger. Remember that mammograms are not generally done in that younger age group. The introduction of HC in 1960 may help explain part of the striking increase in breast cancer that has occurred in our society since that time.

Pablo Aguayo, MD

Randal L. Brown, MD

Carnie C. Nulton, MD

Bruce Snider, MD

It has been well known for a number of years that OC raises the risk of cervical cancer. What is perhaps not well known is the striking aggravation of risk the longer OC is taken. OC for five years raises the risk by 10 percent; OC for 10 years raises the risk 120 percent.

OC increases cervical cancer, even when the number of partners is taken into account.

HC is thought to increase certain types of cancer, because hormones stimulate those types of cells to grow, and cancer is uncontrolled cell growth.

Other risks You may know someone who had a blood clot on the pill. Leg and lung blood clots are increased 100 percent by OC. This is partially because estrogen stimulates the liver to produce more clotting factors. A more worrisome complication, though not as common in young women, was shown in the 2012 New England Journal of Medicine study involving 1.6 million women, showing a 30 to 130 percent increase in heart attacks and strokes with HC, including the vaginal ring.

By personal experience, you have likely observed that hormones can affect your thoughts. We want to share important recent information about the effects of the powerful prescription hormones in HC upon our young people. The psychiatric journal of the American Medical Association (AMA) in 2016 stated that “use of hormonal contraception, especially among adolescents, was associated with subsequent use of antidepressants and a first diagnosis of depression.” This study involved one million females aged 15 to 34 years, with no previous psychiatric history. The risk of depression was generally increased 23 percent; but for adolescents in particular, it was increased 80 percent. HC risk extends to suicide. A study of nearly half a million women and girls in the journal of the

Dmitri Baklanov, MD, PhD

Paul N. Bauer, MD

Paul J. Camarata, MD

Leslie A. Chorun, MD, CFCMC, FCP

Lisa Grasing, DO

Patrick R. Herrick, MD, PhD

Bradley Kwapiszeski, MD

• www.twodaymethod.com • http://nfp.marquette.edu • www.fertilitycarekc.com • www.cclkc.org

Richard P. Brown, MD, FACC

Sheelah Changho, MD

John Gianino, MD

Alternatives for spouses seeking to prevent pregnancy

Laura Jennings, DO, MBA, MPH

Joshua M.V. Mammen, MD, PhD

Catherine Powers, MD

Elizabeth A. Spenceri, MD, FAAD

The AMA states that a randomized trial is the best way to prove the health benefits of a treatment. Yet, contraception’s most famous physician proponents, in their best claim of a noncontraceptive health benefit — that of preventing ovarian cancer — have no randomized studies among the 25 cited to back up their claim.

Numbers are important. All other things considered, the more subjects in a study, the more you can trust its results. In the AMA psychiatric journal, a review of 13 studies published since 1995, looking at the HC-depression link showed that all of the studies not showing a link had less than 10,000 subjects; on the other hand, all of the studies larger than that showed the HC-depression link.

Things to think about When deciding whether to recommend a treatment, a provider weighs its benefits versus its risks, and considers alternative therapies. The evidence for HC health benefit is weaker than has been implied, its health risks are real and there are ways other than HC to prevent pregnancy. Websites with alternatives for pregnancy prevention are listed above.

Most other medical treatments aim to fix something in the body that is broken; HC disrupts the normal behavior of a healthy bodily function. It stands to reason that bodily disruption, more so than disease treatment, is likely to have unwanted side effects.

Considering recent scientific evidence, we find it remarkably prescient what Pope St. John Paul II, when he was still a bishop, said in 1960: “Contraceptives are of their very nature harmful to health.”

Michael R. Caughron, MD

Chuck Barth, MD

Samuel K. Caughron, MD

Melissa Colbern, MD

Dan Dalan, MD

Jeremy P. Hampton, PharmD, BCPS

Isaac Johnston, MD

William A. Moffitt, III, Ph.D

Kevin J. Punswick, DO

Claims of HC health benefit are not backed by strong evidence

Terese Bauer, MD

John A. Ciliberti, DO

Crystal Hambley, DNP, NP-C

American Psychiatric Association this year found that HC, including the vaginal ring and patch, increases suicide 208 percent. So it appears that HC not only makes depression more common, but also makes it more severe.

Jeffrey M. Kaplan, MD

Festus Krebs III, MD

Gregory Muehlebach, MD

Michael Rippee, MD

Mark S. Walton, MD, FACS

Loretta Heinen, PA-C

Raphael Nguyen, DPM

Ann Smith, MD

Austin Welsh, MD

Mark Reintjes, MD

Melissa Yeats, MD

July 23 “Shepherd’s Voice” recording July 24 Royals Vitae baseball game July 28 Echo of Kateri Award Mass and dinner — Prairie Star Ranch, Williamsburg July 29-31 Seminarian pilgrimage

ARCHBISHOP KELEHER July 22 Mass — Federal prison camp St. James Academy auction dinner July 23 Mass — Camp Tekakwitha, Williamsburg

‘You can throw a lot at someone you can trust’ >> Continued from page 3 Thomas had a wonderful way of saying hard things to people in a nice — but firm — way, said Coleman. And she often went above and beyond the call of duty.

Like the time she personally drove a former archdiocesan employee — and her cats — to her new home and job on the East Coast.

“Tell me about another HR person who would do that,” said Coleman.

Leaving a legacy You can tell a lot about the work of a human resources professional by the organization they work within. Often, they leave a very personal stamp on the organization’s culture.

“A successful organization is built on good people,” said Coleman. “And it’s the HR department that picks those good people.”

So, the legacy that Thomas leaves behind is not just one of new technologies or expanded policies, but also of the many hires she has facilitated over her decade here.

And one thing more.

“She’s a good and holy woman,” said Mills. “I think her strong faith shines out in everything she does.”

But if Thomas will be missed by her co-workers, the feeling is mutual.

“I’m going to miss the people here,” she said. “I’m going to miss being involved and continually improving things.”

But it’s more than that, she said.

“Working for the church has been a beautiful surprise in my life,” she said.

“You almost feel chosen.

“It was the right time for me to be here, and I was able to put my skills to work — not only for the archdiocese, but for the greater glory of God.”

JULY 20, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

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HR director passes the torch

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

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For an introduction to the new HR director of the archdiocese, Michele Kooiman, see the next issue of The Leaven.

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — “So, what are you looking for in your ideal candidate?” one candidate asked.

“We already have our ideal candidate,” quipped vicar general Father Gary Pennings. “It’s our current occupant in the position.”

It’s impossible to overstate the impact Kathleen Thomas, who is now retiring, has had on the administration of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas during her 10-year tenure as director of human resources, said colleagues.

“She took the archdiocese out of the ‘stacks and stacks of paper world,’ and into process automation through technology,” said Carla Mills, chief financial officer for the archdiocese. “That enabled us to offer more and better benefits to the employees of the archdiocese.”

But it wasn’t just new technology that Thomas brought to the human resources office. She also brought professionalism, warmth, humanity, idealism, competence and a strong faith.

Although she officially stepped down in April, Thomas stayed on as “human resources emeritus” to assist her successor, Michele Kooiman.

Thomas’ last day is at the end of July.

She has left some big shoes to fill.

new director to build upon.”

You gotta have heart

Challenges and accomplishments It’s probably safe to say that one of the least glamorous and unheralded departments of any large organization is human resources.

And yet, it’s also the most necessary.

Under the umbrella of human resources falls labor law compliance, personnel policies and procedures, hiring and firing, conflict resolution, payroll and benefits.

People tend to take the work of human resources for granted — until they need it.

“Accounting and human resources are like sausage makers,” said Mills.

“Nobody wants to know where it comes from. Nobody cares how it’s made. Nobody understands. They just want it to look nice and come out good in the end.”

Prior to Thomas coming to the archdiocese in July 2008, human resources functions were split between two chancery offices: insurance and other employee benefits, and administrative services.

Her first accomplishment was uniting those two functions in a new, dedicated human resources office.

The next accomplishment was extending human resources services to the entire archdiocesan administrative structure.

“When I came on,” said Thomas, “part of the services that the archdiocese was contracting to provide was HR consulting.”

Now that is provided from the

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE BOLLIG

Outgoing HR head Kathleen Thomas is winding up her final days in the chancery. Thomas will mentor Michele Kooiman, the new director of human resources for the archdiocese, until the end of July. church offices.

A third challenge that Thomas faced right away was streamlining benefit processing for all the archdiocesan entities.

Before Thomas, every parish, school and entity had a different payroll system and cycle. It was like having a marching band with players stepping at different paces and playing music at different tempos.

Thomas also standardized benefit enrollment processing for all parishes and institutions of the archdiocese by utilizing an online enrollment and billing system called HBC. This, her fourth big accomplishment, was the first technology upgrade by the archdiocese for administering benefits more effectively in a multi-employer environment.

And then came another challenge just as big and complex.

It was decided by the archdiocesan administration to freeze the then-existing archdiocesan pension plan for lay employees and replace it with a 401(k) retirement plan.

“Carla Mills, Kathleen Thomas and I had to travel the archdiocese [to explain it],” said accounting director Beth Coleman, in what is fondly remembered as

President Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)

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

the “401(k) Road Tour.”

“This change, as well as the reporting requirements imposed by the Affordable Care Act, required the collection of data, making payroll standardization and integration throughout the archdiocesan entities inevitably necessary,” said Thomas. “A more robust and integrated software option needed to be found.”

So, in April 2017, the phased implementation of a new, integrated software called Dayforce by Ceridian began. It will be fully implemented by January 2019.

Finally, some parts of the ACA conflicted with church teaching, so Thomas had to carefully design the health portion of the archdiocesan benefits program to ensure that the archdiocese could protect itself by “grandfathering” its plan, which the ACA allowed.

“It has required careful monitoring to ensure that the plan design remained consistent and legally compliant, while still retaining its catholicity,” said Thomas.

“Technology upgrades have been the ongoing theme since day one, but it’s not ‘one-and-done,’” she noted.

“The foundation has been laid for the

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

Reporter Olivia Martin olivia.martin@theleaven.org

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org

Advertising Coordinator Beth Blankenship beth.blankenship@theleaven.org

Social Media Editor Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

But Thomas has not spent her tenure at the archdiocese exclusively immersed in “wonkish,” technical things like technology, data, compliance and policies.

The key word in human resources for her is “human.” It’s still all about people and, like the old Broadway song in “Damn Yankees,” a human resources director has “gotta have heart.”

Thomas is known — and loved — for running human resources with a lot of heart.

“The reason I chose HR as a career is because I wanted to influence the environment for people at work,” she said.

The archdiocese offered her plenty of opportunity to do so. When Thomas took the job, she had to hit the ground running.

“She had a lot thrown at her,” said Mills. “Most people in the church don’t understand human resources. They don’t understand how to manage benefits, retirement plans, employment law or immigration — and that got tossed on Kathleen.”

It soon became apparent to her that human resources in the church was different from HR in the corporate or academic environment.

“Learning HR in the church was a challenge,” she said. “That’s because the church isn’t a corporation or a privately owned business. It doesn’t fit all the boxes perfectly that you learned to check off when you learned the responsibilities of HR. And there’s a learning curve on the environment.”

But there were benefits as well.

“Working in the church, you can almost always assume good intentions on the part of whomever you’re working with, and that’s refreshing,” said Thomas. “The flip side is that most people working in the church don’t have a deep understanding of regulation and policy that needs to be adhered to.”

One thing that Mills really appreciated about Thomas was her conflictresolution skills.

“Kathleen could talk to both people and bring them together, and work through the problem,” said Mills.

“She did that not just in the chancery, but also in a consulting role with pastors and with various institutions in the archdiocese,” continued Mills.

“And people in the archdiocese began to see the chancery as a place where you could go to for help for workplace concerns.

“You can trust her. Everyone could feel she was a trustworthy person. You can throw a lot at someone you can trust.” >> See “YOU” on page 2

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

JULY 20, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

THE FIGHT FOR LIFE

Carol Tobias, president of National Right to Life, served as the master of ceremonies for its convention June 28-30 in Overland Park.

National Right to Life convention held June 28-30 in Overland Park

By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

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VERLAND PARK — In his keynote address to the standing-room-only crowd of nearly 300 at the National Right to Life convention’s prayer breakfast held here on June 29, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann called on the pro-life movement to take action — and in a distinctly Kansas fashion.

The movement, he said, needs to model the quest of Dorothy’s traveling companions in “The Wizard of Oz” — and, like the Scarecrow, look for its brain; the Tin Man, discover its heart; and the Cowardly Lion, find its courage.

The archbishop was the keynote speaker of the ticketed event, which also featured Doug Keck, president and chief operating officer of EWTN Global Catholic Network.

“We need to ramp up our educational efforts,” said the archbishop of the first component, “and we need to use all of our creative energy to help us to present the pro-life message in its most compelling way.

“We need to know this issue inside and out and understand the arguments that are used to confuse people and to make them think that, in order to survive as a culture, we need the opportunity to kill our own children. This is craziness. It is madness. And yet, we have a whole culture that this has been perpetuated in now for 45 years.

“And we need to use our brains as best we can . . . to open minds and hearts to the truth of the sanctity of each and every human life.”

Next, said the archbishop, there is a great need for crisis pregnancy centers and a culture of willingness by families to adopt children with special health care needs or children from within the foster care system — both of which will help children to be born, but also to thrive and reach their God-given potential.

“This gives the pro-life movement credibility in everything else that we do. So, we need to have an even larger heart,” he said.

And, like the lion in the classic story, the archbishop said, we need courage.

“We need to be unafraid against the sometimes seemingly overwhelming odds against us. We know that we’re up against an almost billion-dollar industry that’s involved with killing children and, in some cases, selling their body parts. And this industry will do anything it can not to be threatened,” he said.

Toward the end of his remarks, the archbishop emphasized prayer.

“Most of all, we need to pray,” he said. “We can’t succeed in any of this unless God is leading us and guiding us.

And we understand it’s really his work that we’re about.”

In conclusion, the archbishop pointed to Sts. Peter and Paul, whose feasts were celebrated that day, reminding those gathered of St. Paul’s conversion.

“He exemplifies to us that, really, we don’t have any enemies. We just have brothers and sisters who are confused — whom we need to try to help to know the truth so that they not only respect life, but know God’s love for them.”

Hosted by Kansans for Life, the threeday national convention began on June 28 and ran through June 30. More than 100 pro-life leaders were featured, including Bobby Schindler, brother of the late Terri Schindler Schiavo and president of Terri Schiavo Life & Hope Network; Sheryl Crosier, mother of Simon, the inspiration behind the nation’s first parental medical rights bill passed in Kansas in April 2017; Nancy Valko, an advanced legal nurse consultant who writes and speaks about medical ethics and the fine line between “the so-called right to die” and “the duty to die” creeping into the nation’s health care; and Sue Ellen Browder, author of “Subverted: How I Helped the Sexual Revolution Hijack the Women’s Movement.”

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LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann delivers his keynote address to the standing-room-only crowd of nearly 300 at the National Right to Life convention’s prayer breakfast held June 29.

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JULY 20, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Bob and Rosella (Leiker) Yoksh, members of the Church of the Holy Cross, Overland Park, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on July 27.

The couple was married on July 27, 1968, at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kansas, by Father Alex Leiker, CPPS. The couple has five children: Brian Yoksh, Kevin Yoksh, Bridget Parkinson, Patrick Yoksh and Kyle Yoksh. They also have nine grandchildren.

A family celebration will be hosted by their children.

Camp spoils parents, builds bonds >> Continued from page 1 do we go back to our lives?”

The three-day special-needs camp ran from late morning on June 29 to the afternoon of July 1. Family members spent time together and apart, so that parents could enjoy some time alone.

All participants had a chance to enjoy all the camp had to offer, including hiking, archery, the power pole, swimming, canoeing, rock wall climbing, zip lining, mountain biking and more.

Children were matched with a staff of youth peers and attended catechesis discussions while parents gathered to discuss the camp’s summer 2018 theme: “Truth, Beauty and Goodness.”

“The goal was to serve families who have children with special needs, as they have many blessings and challenges,” said Racunas.

“All families need to be a family, to spend time together and to pray together.”

That’s exactly what Leo and Maria Cangiani of Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish in Topeka enjoyed with their four children.

Their 8-year-old son Gianni has anxiety. They worried how he would navigate the camp’s challenges and new people but were pleasantly surprised.

“Seeing him do things he wouldn’t normally do and knowing he feels safe means everything to us,” Maria said. “It’s an important reminder that we shouldn’t try to fix him. We should all embrace him.”

During one group discussion, Angie Bittner, who co-led the discussion on goodness with Racunas, talked of the goodness that comes from God. Bittner is the outreach coordinator for rural youth in the archdiocese.

“God wasn’t bored or lonely. He created everything out of his love and goodness,” said Bittner of St. Stanislaus Parish in Rossville.

“Goodness is renouncing evil and choosing to do good, fulfilling the purpose we were made for,”

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Carl Heincker and his daughter Bella, 7, of Berryton row across the lake at Camp Tekakwitha.

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“THE GOAL WAS TO SERVE FAMILIES WHO HAVE CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS, AS THEY HAVE MANY BLESSINGS AND CHALLENGES.” she added. “We have goodness, and we’re fulfilling what we were created to do. Even the simplest things can be so good.”

It was a sentiment echoed by Mary Cay. “Our kids bring us so much love and enjoyment, even though we’ve been given certain hardships,” she said. “It’s just a different journey for families raising children with special needs.

“But God has picked us up on that journey.”

The camp provided adult siblings with an opportunity to share and express, as well.

Kelsie Gartner, 25, is a member of

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Church of the Ascension in Overland Park. Her sister is 21 and has autism.

At times, it can be challenging to have a sibling with special needs — often, those siblings take on added responsibilities.

“But God knows how to help her when I have no idea how to help her,” said Kelsie, “so I continually release her into his hands.

“I know Jesus died for her, too.

And just like he pursues me, he hasn’t stopped pursuing her either.”

Throughout the three-day camp, parents praised the young staff members who engaged with and cared for individuals with special needs, led prayer groups and served up family meals.

It truly made families feel loved and spoiled, parents said.

Similarly, the parents who attended the camp forged new relationships with one another that will likely have a lasting impact.

“I can’t practice my faith on my own without a community,” Frank said. “He’s making us stronger because of this community.

“If I fall today, I know someone is going to help me get up. Or maybe I can help someone else.”

Mary Lou and Gary McPhail, members of St. Matthew Parish, Topeka, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 3. The couple was married at the Catholic chapel at Hahn Air Force Base in Germany. Their children are: Dary McPhail and Mike McPhail. They also have four grandchildren. They will celebrate with a river cruise on the Danube in 2019.

Richard and Kathy Buessing, members of St. Michael Church, Axtell, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on July 29 with an open house from 2 to 4 p.m. at St. Michael Parish hall. The couple was married on Aug. 31, 1968, at Sacred Heart Church, Baileyville, by Father George Klasinski. Their children are: Roy Buessing, Roger Buessing, Andy Buessing and Damian Buessing.

They also have 16 grandchildren.

Ruth (Willkomm) and Gary Ellis, members of St. Theresa Parish, Perry, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on July 22 with a blessing during Mass. The couple was married on July 19, 1958, at St. Theresa by Father John Quigley. They also celebrated with a family dinner on July 6 at Kobe Steakhouse in Lawrence. Their children are: Theresa King, Debbie Bolden, Kimberly Urie, Jay Ellis, Robert Ellis and Joshua Ellis. They also have eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Judy (Lefort) and Ron Tincher, members of Divine Mercy Parish, Gardner, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary with family in late July. The couple was married on July 12, 1958, at St. Mary Church, Garden City, by Father Clement Goubauex. Their children are: Sue Maib, Bob Tincher, Tim Tincher, Jim Tincher, Ann Kranker, Jan Dahlgaard and Kit Tincher.

They also have 14 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

JULY 20, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS TOOLS FOR FAMILIES Growing as Disciples of Jesus

CAUTION: Busier times ahead!

Constant busyness as a family leaves little or no time to really know one another’s hearts, hopes and dreams.

The rush of school, sports and activities is just around the corner.

ARTWORK BY NEILSON CARLIN, 2015 Start a routine now that will guarantee more family time.

• Every Saturday, share a family breakfast with pancakes (add a kid favorite — chocolate chips) and favorite breakfast foods.

• Let the children help with the cooking — it provides fun and bonding time.

• Designate a weeknight for family time — play games, share popcorn and a movie.

• Proudly proclaim that these are times reserved for family!

— Deacon Tony Zimmerman, lead consultant for the archdiocesan office of marriage and family life

Winnie (Lundy) and Jim Nass, members of St. Ann Parish, Prairie Village, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on July 7 with a party for family and friends at Lucky Brewgrille, Mission.

The couple was married on July 27, 1968, at St. Agnes Church, Roeland Park, by Father Harold Wickey. Their children are: Margie Nass Huggins, Joanie Nass Lazzo, Mary Ellen Nass Kroll and Michael Nass. They also have six grandchildren.

William J. and Rosemarie Sifuentes, members of St. Pius X Parish, Mission, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary with a family dinner. The couple was married on July 13, 1968. Their children are: William Sifuentes II and Gabriel Sifuentes.

They also have five grandchildren.

Art and Kathie (Berning) Donnelly, members of Holy S p i r i t Parish, O ve r l a n d Park, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on July 27 with a Mass and party. They will also take a family trip to Colorado.

The couple was married on July 27, 1968, at St. Agnes Church, Roeland Park. Their children are: David, Kevin and Christopher.

They also have two grandsons.

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Summertime is hungry time — please help

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — They don’t plan to close their doors, but those shelves are getting mighty bare.

Summertime is a lean time at the eight Emergency Assistance Center food pantries operated by Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas. This summer is no exception.

“Our donations during the school year keep up with demand. But when the demand goes up at the same time donations tend to decrease, we have bigger gap,” said Denise Ogilvie, vice president of outreach and grants management at Catholic Charities.

“We have a saying around here: schools out — food’s out,” she said.

Catholic Charities food pantries, like all others, get their food from several sources.

A lot of the food that fills pantry shelves comes from food drives conducted by parishes and schools. Catholic Charities also has partnerships with certain grocery stores that donate items slightly past their expiration date but still good.

Harvesters, a nonprofit regional food bank, is also a source of food.

But when schools let out in May, the collections stop. Parishes continue food drives, but many families go on vacations and the donation rate declines.

On the recipients’ end, however, once schools are closed, families whose children would normally participate in free or reduced cost school lunch programs now bear the cost of making up those additional meals without help.

Catholic Charities tries to help them bridge that gap.

“We’re trying to keep our food pantry shelves stocked, and we do that in different ways,” said Ogilvie.

“We get donations of fresh produce more in the summer,” she continued.

“We ask people to take fresh food rather than canned. We are also able to purchase from Harvesters.

“I was at our warehouse [recently], and our warehouse has very little food.

It’s going out as fast as it’s coming in, and we don’t have any extra.”

Summertime is a lean time at the eight Emergency Assistance Center food pantries operated by Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas. The demand for food goes up in the summer at the same time that giving drops off.

But they’re not giving up.

“We’re not going to close our doors,” she added. “We’re committed to staying open.

“If there’s a parish out there that wants to do a food drive, we’d love to talk to them.”

Sometimes food insecurity is chronic, but sometimes it’s episodic. The pantries are used by people with disabilities, on fixed incomes, the unemployed, single mothers with children out of school and those who need to fill the gap until their paycheck arrives.

“I was at a food pantry [recently] when someone came in who had never been to one of our food pantries before,” said Ogilvie. “This person was a little nervous, this being their first time. The volunteers were so nice and welcoming. She had tears in her eyes. She said, ‘I didn’t know what I was going to do today.’”

In Kansas, one out of every seven people is food insecure — meaning they might not have food for their next meal or are not sure of when they’ll be eating next.

People who want to help can do so in a number of ways.

If you can fill a grocery bag or two,

you can drop them off at the nearest Emergency Assistance Center. If you have more, such as from a parish food drive, donors can drop off the food at the Hope Distribution Center, the central warehouse for Catholic Charities pantries in Kansas City, Kansas.

“We can also pick up large stuff, if your neighborhood or parish has a food drive,” said Ogilvie.

For information about food drives and donations, go online to: catholic charitiesks.org, click on “Get involved” at the top of the home page, then “Gifts in kind” in the pull-down menu and, finally, click on “Donate Food or Toiletries.” This page has a short shopping list and instructions.

To host your own food drive, contact Kristen Filardo at (913) 433-2081, or send an email at: ccnekvolunteers@ catholiccharitieskc.org.

To drop off food at an Emergency Assistance Center, call Dustin Hardison at (913) 433-2072, or send an email to: dhardison@ccnekvolunteers.org.

The Hope Distribution Center is at 1708 Steele Rd., Kansas City, Kansas. Its hours of operation are 8:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Call (913) 432-3141.

WORLD CUP ROLLERCOASTER THE THRILL OF VICTORY . . .

Croatia took their fans on a wild ride through the World Cup tournament in Russia. Local Croatian Catholics gathered at St. John’s Club in Kansas City, Kansas, to watch each Croatia World Cup match.

Right, fans go wild after Croatia beats Russia with a 4-3 shootout victory in the quarterfinal.

. . . AND THE AGONY OF DEFEAT

After beating England 2-1 in a semifinal, Croatia found themselves in the World Cup final for the first time ever. Alas, after three straight victories in extra time, team Croatia couldn’t muster one last miracle in the final against France, falling 4-2.

As the game nears its end, Croatian fans who gathered at St. John’s Club (left) begin to accept the reality of the situation.

PHOTOS BY JAY SOLDNER

JULY 20, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

7

Not my kid? Don’t bet on it Alliance works to alert others to how sex traffickers target kids online

By Olivia Martin olivia.martin@theleaven.org

O

LATHE — “Do not ever think or say, ‘Not my kid’” was the message from speaker Russ Tuttle to middle and high school students and their parents at Prince of Peace Parish here June 10. Tuttle joined Stacy Lareau in a team presentation on domestic minor sex trafficking.

Both work with KC Street Hope, a local alliance of Christian churches, community partners and volunteers that collaborate to end sex trafficking.

The evening was split into two sessions: one for adults; the other for students.

While Tuttle spoke to the students, Lareau spoke to the adults, opening her address by identifying socially accepted addictions that can be dangerous for children, such as online gaming, social media and pornography.

“All digital devices have the potential to be addictive if misused,” said Lareau. “Cellphones are addictive in the same way as slot machines.”

According to the National Center for Sexual Exploitation, said Tuttle, anytime anyone is on a computer or smartphone, there are no more than five clicks separating the user from pornography.

“Every single time,” he stressed, “every single person is targeted, baited or trapped by pornography.

Five clicks.”

Through the increasing acceptance of electronically based, socially accepted addictions, profesCNS PHOTO/LISA JOHNSTON, ST. LOUIS REVIEW sionals are noticing an increase in something called The average age of child sex-trafficking victims worldwide is 12 “nomaphobia,” said Lareau, which is also known as years old. “phone separation anxiety.”

But how does this relate to human trafficking? ing about [it in] Johnson County, to people who are Lareau explained that each smart phone or elecliving here, is kind of scary.” tronic device with a screen and internet capability A shocking statistic was surfaced by a 2013 study can be misused — to coerce. conducted by Arizona State University across 15 “There are kids around the world, in the United cities in the United States — Kansas City being one States — in Kansas City — that are of them. being sexually exploited for money,” In the study, the school ran she said. fake online ads offering sex to see From the mall to parties to restauhow many people over the age of rants to the bowling alley, trafficking “THE DEMAND IS HIGH AND 18 were online actively looking could happen anywhere, explained for sex.

THE DEMAND IN KANSAS Lareau. So, it’s vital to be educated The results were startling. and alert about reality.

“In the Kansas City area, it was CITY IS HIGH.” Jedida Kamau, a Prince of Peace 14.5 percent,” said Lareau. “In parishioner who attended the pre2013, 14.5 percent is 106,000 men sentation with her husband Ngugi that were online shopping to buy and daughters, was alarmed by the true stories of women for sex.” local trafficking cases that Lareau shared.

“What does that tell us?” prodded Lareau.

“I’ve heard it’s in Kansas City,” she said, “but hear-

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“The demand is high,” she said, “and the demand in Kansas City is high.”

With over two million children trafficked worldwide with an average age of 12, the industry grows larger every year.

“It is a targeted market just like any other,” said Lareau. “Being aware helps us to know how to combat this in a knowledgeable way.”

The number one place for trafficking, she continued, is online chat rooms, which nowadays are accessed through a myriad of smartphone apps.

Snapchat, Tinder and Oovoo are some popular apps among teens that, while not innately harmful, can easily be misused.

“There are so many apps,” said Ngugi Kamau. “So many times, I go to my kids’ phones and I don’t know what [the apps] are. I wanted to learn more about that.”

Tuttle also stressed that it is important for parents to know and monitor the apps and information on their kids’ phones — especially passwords and apps that may be hidden in nested folders.

“It’s not a trust issue,” he said.

“They’re being targeted,” he continued. “That’s the challenge and the problem.

“That’s why I’m passionate about this.”

“Bottom line,” said Lareau, “human trafficking is exploitation of human vulnerability. It’s our responsibility to lessen the vulnerabilities.”

One of the most important ways to decrease these vulnerabilities is through constant dialogue between parents and children — and especially among peers.

Vanessa Kamau, 12, was shocked to learn that traffickers target girls her age and is determined to start the dialogue about it.

“I’ll be sure to spread the word to my friends that [we] need to be careful about it,” she said, “and it’s not just a story you hear.

“It’s not a one-time thing — it happens all the time.”

After recommending a variety of home internet filters such as Covenant Eyes, Tuttle stressed to parents to not become overwhelmed.

“Don’t live in fear — be wise,” he said.

“Kids are not bad; kids want boundaries,” he concluded. “They’re not going to tell us that, but deep down they want them, so let’s provide that for them.”

If you or someone you know is being targeted or trafficked — either online or off — call 911 immediately.

For more information about KC Street Hope, visit the website at: www.kcstreethope.org.

Why Prayer and Action Team Leader: George Rhodes Parish: St. John Paul II, Olathe School: Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in St. Louis “Prayer and Action encourages prayer and service in free time toward the good end of glorifying God and learning the truth. Our Prayer and Action culture is a gift.”

Desire for more Worksite Director: Frankie Davis Parish: St. Joseph, Olpe School: Missouri Southern State University in Joplin, Missouri “The joy of being around all of the kids and the staff has really influenced me to become a better Catholic.”

A shared poverty Kitchen Coordinator: Colm Larkin Parish: Holy Cross, Overland Park School: St. John Vianney Theological Seminary, Denver “I’ve learned that I’m not some powerful person who is going to fix your life.

I’m just as poor as you are, and from that poverty, maybe I can help you encounter Christ.”

The poor are with us Supplies Manager: Maddie Gallegos Parish: Our Lady of Guadalupe, Topeka School: Washburn University, Topeka “There are people here who live two minutes away from a nice neighborhood who need equal amounts of help as somebody in another country; there are people in our own city that need help.”

The mission “Collatio” (evening gathering) Emcee: Tim Skoch Parish: St. Lawrence Center, Lawrence School: St. John Vianney Theological Seminary, Denver “My mission within Prayer and Action is simply to get to know Jesus Christ, [and] help others find him within themselves and draw him out of them.”

God always provides Communications and media: Allison George Parish: Church of the Nativity, Leawood School: University of Missouri in Columbia, Missouri “I was told God provides. I was like, ‘OK, but what if he doesn’t?’ Now I’ve seen he really does — not just in food or money, but even in problems that arise.”

PRAYER

“What we wo

K

By Olivia Martin olivia.martin@theleaven.org ANSAS CITY, Kan. — It’s not every day that a pack of nuns ambushes high school students with water balloons after an afternoon of outdoor labor.

Or dozens of teens show up for daily Mass in the summer. Or do yardwork with smiles on their faces.

But each of these scenarios is completely ordinary at Prayer and Action.

Each summer, hundreds of local teens give up a week to do manual labor for practical strangers here in the archdiocese, guided by a team of six college-aged leaders.

The grassroots program came to the archdiocese in 2011 and consists of five one-week sessions of local mission work, prayer, spiritual talks, sacraments, community and fun.

This year, Prayer and Action was headquartered at Blessed Sacrament Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, and ran from June 10 to July 20.

Students from Church of the Ascension in Overland Park and St. Stanislaus Parish in Rossville gathered at Blessed Sacrament the week of June 17-22 to work on a variety of sites and come to know God through service.

Gratitude in belonging Imagine spending practically every minute with your co-workers. The Prayer and Action team eats, works, prays, relaxes, goes for Sonic runs and spends the whole summer together.

Despite the challenges that inevitably arise when people are together for long periods of time, the Holy Spirit has transformed this team from friends into family.

“I’ve been part of a lot of teams,” said George Rhodes, “and I think this team gets along the best out of any of them.”

Meanwhile, the women are grateful that living together has given them the chance to grow in Catholic sisterhood. They also have appreciated being able to pick the seminarians’ brains.

“They can answer questions in a good way that I understand,” said Maddie Gallegos. “They explain them so well — and it’s the blunt truth. But you just don’t get this opportunity.”

For the men, shooting the breeze over World Cup highlights at the end of a long day has served as a springboard to a deeper friendship.

Together they’ve learned anew what it means to accompany each other and trust in God.

A surprising companionship “One thing that’s been apparent for me,” said team leader Rhodes, “is just how countercultural Prayer and Action is.”

Homeowner Faye McEough couldn’t agree more.

She didn’t know what to expect when

Homeowner Faye McEough smiles for the camera surr

“

“THERE AREN’T GIANT SCREENS OR LOUD MUSIC, AND EVERY DAY PRESENTS AN OBVIOUS OPPORTUNITY TO SERVE THE LORD.” her neighbor said some people were going to help her clean and tidy her house for a week.

“I was surprised that so many came to help,” said McEough. “In a sense, it surprised me because youngsters don’t do that — at least not the ones I know!”

“The fact is,” she said, “it’s been a joy working with them because I used to work all the time. I’ve gotten to be a couch potato, and they’ve made me get up!”

The group consisted of several teens, adult chaperones and Prayer and Action team members, all ready to combat unruly bushes, brimming closets and cluttered hallways.

Among the teen volunteers were Eric Biggins and Dennis White from Overland Park, both rising sophomores at St. Thomas Aquinas High School and Church of the Ascension parishioners.

Although kept busy with cleaning gutters and uprooting bushes, they found time to speak with McEough, which made

R AND ACTION

ould like to do is change the world” — Dorothy Day

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Victoria Haverkamp of St. Stanislaus Parish in Rossville powerwashes the sidewalk outside of McEough’s home in Kansas City, Kansas. Prayer and Action crews undertake a variety of projects, from decluttering rooms to yard work.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

rounded by the crew of high school students who helped clean her house and yard. their work even more meaningful.

“After getting to know Faye,” said White, “and knowing that she can’t do any of this herself, it feels really good to be able to do that for her.”

“Faye is awesome,” said Biggins, “She’s so nice — and it’s crazy because she’s 91 and looks like she’s 60!”

Giving is receiving Across the parking lot from Blessed Sacrament Parish is the small convent that houses the Fraternity the Poor of Jesus Christ Sisters.

A work group assembled there to help sort clothing, organize the pantry and give the basement a wash and fresh paint.

Angie Bittner, the outreach coordinator for rural youth in the archdiocese, is from St. Stanislaus Parish in Rossville. She was pleased to chaperone the group and work alongside the Sisters.

“For the rural kids of our region,” said Bittner, “we don’t have many opportunities to interact with seminarians and religious.

“It’s been amazing to even just be with them.”

Bittner and the students alike were amazed by the Sisters’ joy and mischievousness.

“Some people think that we nuns are boring and always in a bad mood,” said Sister Mariana, PJC. “But no! We are the Catholic Church — we have to have joy in our lives!”

Sister Mariana arrived in the United States from Brazil eight months ago with nothing but the English she had learned

from video games like “Final Fantasy.”

She couldn’t stop smiling as she spoke about her experience with the Prayer and Action youth.

“It’s amazing how they’ve helped us and how they’ve brought joy to our lives,” she said.

“We [Sisters] came here to give,” she added, “but we’ve received a lot more.”

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

A simple life is the good life “I love the simplicity of Prayer and Action,” said Bittner, “and that the kids come with their hearts open to having an amazing week.

“There aren’t giant screens or loud music, and every day presents an obvious opportunity to serve the Lord.”

The lack of a technological presence is one of the trademarks and selling points of Prayer and Action, as cellphones and other electronics must be relinquished at the start of each week.

Anna Schuckman, a member of St. Stanislaus Parish, was happy to give up electronics for a week of Prayer and Action.

She found in it, Schuckman said, a simple yet infinitely profound experience.

“I love [eucharistic] adoration,” she said, particularly when the group goes together on Thursday night.

“Nothing can beat adoration, I think.”

For more information on the Prayer and Action program, visit the website at: www. archkck.org/prayerandactionkc.

Molly Thomas (left) of Church of the Ascension, Overland Park, and Michaela Paulsen of St. Stanislaus Parish, Rossville, remove debris from the gutters of McEough’s home in Kansas City, Kansas.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Sister Mariana, PJC, launches a surprise attack on David Pokorny, parishioner of Church of the Nativity in Leawood, after a hard day’s work. The Sisters love the opportunity to have some fun and a little bit of mischief amid the tasks of the day.

JULY 20, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CLASSIFIEDS

EMPLOYMENT Drivers - Ready for the summers off? Join our school transportation division and live like a kid again! Our drivers have the opportunity to serve our community and still get those precious summer breaks. Assisted Transportation seeks caring and reliable drivers to transport K - 12 students in Johnson and Wyandotte counties in our minivans. CDL not required. $12 per hour. Retirees encouraged to apply. Learn more or apply online at: assistedtransportation.com or call (913) 262-5190 for more information. EOE. Do you enjoy driving? - The Kansas City Transportation Group is looking for chauffeurs to drive our guests to events, airport, dinner, etc. Business is growing and we are in need of workers with flexible hours, those who are retired, etc.

Great pay and benefits. Send resume to: jkalbert@kctg. com or in person at Carey, 1300 Lydia Ave., Kansas City, MO 64106.

Preschool teaching positions - St. Ann Young Child Center in Prairie Village is looking to fill staff positions for the 201819 school year. Seeking a part-time 3-year-olds preschool teaching position for Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:45 a.m. - noon. A degree in education is required. Also seeking a part-time preschool aide for Monday - Friday from 8:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. Experience preferred but not necessary.

Finally, seeking an extended-day aide for Monday through Friday from 3 - 6 p.m. If you love working with children and are looking for part-time work at our distinguished Young Child Center, call Tati at (913) 362-4660.

Music minister/assistant youth minister - Holy Trinity Parish is seeking to fill this full-time role of leadership that integrates music into all aspects of youth ministry. Responsibilities include leading worship; organizing and rehearsing the band for our Sunday night youth Mass; coordinating and implementing music into other aspects of the youth ministry (prayer meetings, core meetings, retreats, special events, etc.); assisting in the planning and implementation of weekly Life Nights and periodic adoration/song/prayer events; and participation in weekly staff meetings and monthly core meetings. Applicants must have experience leading a band and be familiar with contemporary Christian music and the Catholic Mass. Sight reading skills, experience as a worship leader, and experience and knowledge of Life Teen a plus. College degree in related field preferred.

Competitive compensation based on experience. Email questions and/or resumes to: kwalters@htlenexa.org.

Technology director – Church of the Nativity, Leawood, is seeking a full-time director of information technology.

Applicants will be responsible for the management and reliable operation of network devices; Microsoft servers (including Exchange and SQL); student information system; Mitel telecom system; 4th-8th 1:1 Chromebook using Google apps; Apple devices; staff laptops and end user training and support for all these functions. The Director will have responsibility for all IT operations. Qualified applicants will have knowledge of Microsoft Server domain environment; demonstrated trouble shooting and problem-solving skills; experience providing “hands-on” IT support; experience managing external partners and vendors; excellent interpersonal skills; and ability to establish and maintain effective working relations with students and staff. This is a full-time position with medical, dental, vision, etc., benefits. Qualified applicants may submit a resume and work history to: job application@kcnativity.org.

Bus driver needed - The Goddard School, Olathe (northwest), is accepting applications for a part-time before/after school care BUS DRIVER. Applicant must be professional, mature, responsible and punctual. Applicant must have a clean driving record and enjoy working with young children. Driver will be responsible for transporting school-age children to/from our facility each morning and afternoon to several local elementary schools. May consider a different driver for a.m. and p.m., if necessary. Great position for a retired “grandma/grandpa.” Minimum qualifications and requirements: Must be at least 21 years old; have a valid Kansas driver’s license without indication of a criminal record; a clear background check; no driving-related convictions or citations in the last three years; be familiar with the area; be organized, punctual and a self-starter; have good communication skills; meet state licensing requirements for health history; participate in reporting and implementation of the child abuse and neglect policy; participate in any professional development activities (i.e., CPR, first-aid training); previous teaching and/or driving experience preferred; CDL not required - 14 passenger bus.

Clinic manager - Olathe Pregnancy Center (part of the Wyandotte Pregnancy Clinic network) is seeking a full-time clinic manager to provide Christ-centered leadership to our new pregnancy center opening late this summer. Bilingual in Spanish a plus. For a complete job summary and application, send an email to: mmason@wpcnetwork.org.

Extended day care assistant - Holy Spirit School is seeking an enthusiastic person to be the assistant in our after-school care program. This well-established program runs from 3 5:45 p.m. each school day. Applicants should be responsible and creative and enjoy working with children. The ability to communicate clearly with children, colleagues and parents is most important in order to foster positive relationships.

The applicant must attend a Virtus training and be at least 16 years old. Interested persons should contact Eileen Colling at (913) 492-2582 or send an email to: ecolling@ hscatholic.org for more information.

Coach - Bishop Miege High School is seeking an assistant volleyball coach. If interested, contact Andrew Groene at: agroene@bishopmiege.com or call (913) 222-5802.

Teachers - St. Joseph, Shawnee, Early Education Center is seeking a teacher for a half-time three-year-olds classroom.

The hours are from 7:30 - 11:30 a.m., Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Good benefits and great environment. Call (913) 248-4589.

Associate director of planned giving - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking an associate director of planned giving for the office of stewardship and development. This position is responsible for advancing the mission of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas through professional stewardship and relationship-building activities, as well as developing, organizing and implementing a spiritually based archdiocesan planned giving program. Duties include developing operational and program goals, communication for all planned giving initiatives and managing planned giving programs within the office of stewardship and development. The ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic in good standing and have a minimum of five years in planned giving, marketing or related field. Requires bachelor’s degree in finance, communications or marketing; master’s degree preferred in business, law or accounting. Position requires a strong knowledge of Catholic Church organization and procedures; principles and practices of planned giving; building and maintaining relationships with staff, parishes and potential donors; and strict confidentiality. A complete job description, application and benefits information are available on the archdiocese’s website at: www.archkck.org/jobs.

Interested individuals should send cover letter, resume, application and pastor’s letter of support. Send via email to: jobs@archkck.org; or mail to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, Associate Director of Planned Giving Search, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Application deadline is Aug. 15.

Executive director – The Johnson and Wyandotte Counties Catholic Youth Organization of Kansas is seeking a faith-filled, proven leader and administrator to become executive director for the Johnson and Wyandotte counties pastoral region of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. Responsibilities include providing strategic and energetic leadership for all grade school and high school athletic program offerings. The new director must also be skilled in financial management, strategic planning and development. The executive director will also be expected to be a registered and active member of his or her Catholic parish. Complete job description, application and benefits information available online at: www. archkck.org/jobs. Interested individuals should send cover letter, resume and application to: JWACYO Executive Board, c/o Human Resources Department, Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Documents may be emailed to: jobs@archkck.org. Position open until filled.

Cafeteria worker - Nativity Parish in Leawood has an opening for a part-time cafeteria worker, approximately 15 - 20 hours per week for the 2018-19 school year. Prior experience working in a school cafeteria is preferred, but not required. Compensation is based on experience. Applicants must have dependable transportation, be Virtus trained and pass a background check. Interested applicants should contact Patti Post, cafeteria director, at: patti.post@kcnativity.org with resume and work history.

Administrative coordinator – Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas has an immediate full-time opening for an administrative support coordinator for the emergency office in Topeka. This position will be 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., five days per week, with a full-time benefits package. The ideal candidate will be organized with strong communication skills; the ability to maintain confidentiality; data entry experience; and proficiency using Microsoft Office. Responsibilities will include training front desk volunteers on site procedures for answering phone calls and relevant site policies and procedures; before each shift, update each front desk volunteer on any daily change in policy or service; manage volunteer front desk and pantry schedule. To apply, go online to: catholic charitiesks.applicantpool.com, scroll down to “Administrative Support Specialist - Topeka” and click on the link.

Include a resume with application. For more information, contact Angelie Rodriguez at (913) 433-2066.

Counselor - Keeler Women’s Center is seeking a full-time clinical mental health counselor. Duties include supporting the mission of Keeler Women’s Center (empowering women in the urban core); supervising master-level interns; facilitating support groups and/or classes; scheduling approximately 20 clients per week; maintaining records; coordinating other volunteer counselors; and other duties as needed. Qualified candidates must have an LCPC license; experience working with women and men of all ages and life experiences; prefer bilingual (Spanish); strong interpersonal skills; being hospitable to a diverse population; self-starter; able to multi task, problem solve, detail oriented, compassionate and empathetic; guided by principles of Catholic social teaching and the ACA code of ethics; and pass a background check. To apply, send a letter of interest and resume to Sister Bridget Dickason at: KWC@mountosb.org.

Positions available - TurnStyles thrift stores, a ministry of Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas, is looking for people who want to make a difference in the community where they live. TurnStyles is currently hiring for the following full-time positions: 1) truck driver and merchandising coordinator at the Overland Park, 87th St. location; 2) donation coordinator at the Overland Park, 137th St. location; and 3) store manager for the new, upcoming TurnStyles store in Mission. These will be full time, Monday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. For more information and to apply, go online to: catholiccharitiesks. applicantpool.com.

Music director and accompanist - St. Anne Catholic Church, Wichita, is accepting applications for a director or music and a Sunday pianist. These may be fulfilled by the same person or by two people. The director job may be full- or part-time. The director trains and schedules cantors and accompanists. The pianist accompanies the choir at 10:00 a.m. Mass on Sundays. If interested send an email to: frdavid@stannewichita.org or call (316) 522-2383.

Teachers - Infant/toddler teachers needed for our growing child care needs at St. Joseph, Shawnee, Early Education Center. Good benefits, great environment. Call (913) 248-4589.

Lead pre-kindergarten teacher - St. Patrick Early Education Center in Kansas City, Kan., is accepting applications for a lead pre-kindergarten teacher for the 2018-19 school year. The hours for the position will be 6:45 a.m. - noon, M - F, August - May. The applicant should be a practicing Catholic who loves working with preschool-age children. Primary responsibilities include supervision of children, lesson plan implementation, parent communication, and cleanliness and organization of the classroom. The applicant must have an AA or BA in early childhood education, child development or elementary education. Experience is a plus. For more information or to request an application, send an email to: stpatearlyedcenter@stpatrickkck.eduk12.net.

HOME IMPROVEMENT Swalms organizing - downsizing - cleanout service - Reduce clutter – Any space organized. Shelving built on-site. Items hauled for recycling and donations. 20 years exp.; insured. Call Tillar at (913) 375-9115. WWW. SWALMSORGANIZING.COM. Decked Out In KC - We fix decks. We repair, power wash and stain wood decks and fences. We power wash and seal concrete drives, walkways, pool decks and more. Call Brian at (913) 952-5965. Member of Holy Trinity Parish.

Father-and-son home exteriors and remodeling - Celebrating my 15th year in The Leaven as a small business owner! We do decks, siding, windows, doors, tile work, floors, wood rot, and interior and exterior painting.

We can remodel bathrooms, kitchens or basements. We also reface cabinets and redo pesky popcorn ceilings.

Call Josh at (913) 709-7230.

EL SOL Y LA TIERRA *Commercial & residential * Lawn renovation *Mowing * Clean-up and hauling * Dirt grading/installation * Landscape design * Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!! www.elsolylatierra.com Call Lupe at (816) 935-0176 STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Free estimates. Call (913) 579-1835.

Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.

Concrete construction - Tear out and replace stamped, stained or colored patios and drives. Retaining walls, footings, poured-in-place safe rooms, excavation and hauling. Asphalt drives and lots. Fully insured; references. Call Dan at (913) 207-4371 or send an email to: dan deeconst@aol.com.

NELSON CREATION’S L.L.C. Home makeovers, kitchen, bath. All interior and exterior remodeling and repairs.

Family owned, experienced, licensed and insured.

Member St. Joseph, Shawnee. Kirk Nelson.

(913) 927-5240; nelsport@everestkc.net Rusty Dandy Painting, Inc. – We have been coloring your world for 40 years. Your home will be treated as if it were our own. Old cabinets will be made to look like new. Dingy walls and ceilings will be made beautiful.

Woodwork will glow. Lead-certified and insured. Call (913) 341-9125.

Handyman/Remodeler - Quality service with references. Kitchens, baths, tile, painting, garage doors and openers, decks and wood rot repair. Call Jeff at (913) 915-4738.

DRC Construction We’ll get the job done right the first time.

Windows - Doors - Decks - Siding Repair or replace, we will work with you to solve your problems. Choose us for any window, door, siding or deck project and be glad you did.

Everything is guaranteed 100% (913) 461-4052 www.windowservicesoverlandpark.com drcconswindows@gmail.com.

Local handyman - Painting int. and ext., staining, wood rot, power wash, decks, doors and windows, masonry, hardwood floors, gutter cleaning, water heaters, toilets, faucets, garbage disposals, ceiling fans, mowing and more!! Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118.

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

HARCO Exteriors LLC Your Kansas City fencing specialists Family owned and operated (913) 815-4817 www.harcoexteriorsllc.com The Drywall Doctor, Inc. – A unique solution to your drywall problems! We fix all types of ceiling and wall damage — from water stains and stress cracks to texture repairs and skim coating. We provide professional, timely repairs and leave the job site clean! Lead-certified and insured! Serving the metro since 1997. Call (913) 768-6655.

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Helping Hand Handy Man - Semi-retired handyman can help with your ‘to do list,’ small and medium projects around your house. Also electrical; ceiling fans, light fixtures, outlet and switches. Most deck and shed repairs, power washing restaining and painting. No yard work.

Member of Prince of Peace, Olathe. Call Mark Coleman at (913) 526-4490.

SERVICES Faith-based counseling to cope with life concerns - Kansas City area. Call Mary Vorsten, licensed clinical professional counselor, at (913) 909-2002.

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

Mike Hammer local moving - A full-service mover.

Packing, pianos, rental truck load/unload, storage container load/unload and in-home moving. No job too small. Serving JoCo since 1987. St. Joseph, Shawnee, parishioner. Call Mike at (913) 927-4347 or send an email to: mike@mikehammermoving.com.

Speedy Guzman Moving and delivery Licensed and insured Anytime (816) 935-0176 Senior hairstyling - Haircuts, perms, roller sets.

Savvy Salon, 5910 W. 59th Terrace Mission, KS, one block south of Johnson Dr. $5 off any service on 1st visit. Bonnie (816) 769-8511.

Win disability benefits - Disabled and no longer able to work? Get help winning Social Security disability benefits. Free consultation. Eight years’ experience. No fee unless you win. Call (785) 331-6452 or send an email to: montemace2000@yahoo.com or visit montemace disability.com.

Bankruptcy consultation - If debts are overwhelming you, seek hope and help from compassionate, experienced Catholic attorney, Teresa Kidd. For a free consultation, call (913) 422-0610; send an email to: tkidd@ kc.rr.com; or visit the website at: www.teresakiddlawyer. com. Please do not wait until life seems hopeless before getting good quality legal advice that may solve your financial stress.

Clutter getting you down? - Organize, fix, assemble, install! “Kevin of all trades” your professional organizer and “Honey-do” specialist. Call or email me today for a free consultation at (913) 271-5055 or KOATorganizing@ gmail.com. Insured. References.

Rodman Lawn Care Lawn mowing, aeration, verticutting, mulching, Hedge trimming, leaf removal, gutter cleaning Fully insured and free estimates John Rodman (913) 548-3002 Cleaning lady - Reasonable rates; references provided.

Call (913) 940-2959.

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Quilted memories - Your Kansas City Longarm shop Nolting Longarm machines, quilting supplies and machine quilting services. We specialize in memorial quilts - custom designed memory quilts from your T-shirt collections, photos, baby clothes, college memorabilia, neckties, etc. For information or to schedule a free consultation, call (913) 649-2704. Visit the website at: www.quiltedmemoriesllc.com.

Tree Trimming Tree Trimming/Landscaping Insured/References Free Estimates/Local Parishioner Tony (913) 620-6063 Professional window cleaner - Residential only. Fully insured. Over 40 years experience. Free estimates. Contact Gene Jackson at (913) 593-1495.

FOR SALE Residential lifts - New and recycled. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. St. Michael’s parishioners. KC Lift & Elevator at (913) 327-5557. (Formerly Silver Cross - KC) For sale - Double-glass front niche at Resurrection Cemetery, Holy Family section, tier C, niche 3. Paid $8625.

Make an offer. Call (913) 558-0723.

For sale - Two lots at Resurrection Cemetery, Queen of Heaven, section B, spaces 1 and 2. Value is $8900 plus two interment fees. Make an offer. Call (480) 830-6440.

For sale - Two plots at Resurrection Cemetery, Ascension Garden. $2000 each. Call Dick at (913) 384-5833.

For sale - Double lawn crypt at Resurrection Cemetery in Lenexa, Garden of Hope section, double lawn crypt, lot 78 C, space 4. Conveyance fee included. $7500. Call Lou at (512) 294-2869. >> Classifieds continue on page 15

JULY 20, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CALENDAR BREATHE RESPITE CARE PROGRAM Holy Cross School 8101 W. 95th St., Overland Park July 21 from 4 - 8 p.m.

BREATHE respite care provides the gift of time away from caregiving for families who have a loved one age 5 years or older with a disability. Volunteers are needed! Prayerfully consider offering your time. Contact Tom Racunas with at (913) 647-3054 or send an email to: tracunas@archkck.org, or Audrey Amor at (816) 739-1197 or by email at: aamore@sjakeepingfaith.org if you have any questions. To register a loved one for the program, or to volunteer, go the website at: www.archkck.org/specialneeds and complete the online form.

MEMORIAL LITURGY Curé of Ars Church (Father Burak Room) 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood July 21 at 8 a.m.

There will be a memorial liturgy for deceased loved ones followed by a grief support meeting in the Father Burak Room. The topic will be: “Tears and Laughter During Grief.” For more information, call (913) 649-2026.

BLOOD DRIVE Knights of Columbus Hall 11221 Johnson Dr., Shawnee July 23 from 1 - 7 p.m.

Schedule an appointment online at: www. savealifenow.org using sponsor code: stjosephcatholic. Walk-in donors are welcome. Hosted by St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee. Call Virginia Wiedel at (913) 268-3874.

‘THE TRUTH ABOUT FUNERAL COSTS AND PLANNING’ Keeler Women’s Center 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kansas July 23 from 10 - 11:30 a.m.

BURGERS, BRATS AND BINGO St. Pius X Parish (Kelly Hall) 5500 Woodson, Mission July 27 at 6 p.m.

Concessions and bar will be available. There will be burgers, brats, chips, popcorn and much more. The cost to play bingo is $10 for one card, which gets 12 games. There is also one card for $1 for one game. There will be three special games, and the cards will be $2. For more information, call Marisa Snook at (913) 244-5732 or send an email to: marisa.r.snook@gmail.com.

NATURAL FAMILY PLANNING COURSES Topeka July 28 at 7 p.m.

A reasonable course fee is charged, and online registration is required at: www.ccli. org. Call Dana or Eric Runnebaum at (785) 380-0062 for more information and for the class location as well as the availability of online classes at: nfptopeka.blogspot.com.

HOT SUMMER NIGHTS DANCE Church of the Nativity 3800 W. 119th St., Leawood July 28 from 7 - 11 p.m.

Singles of Nativity (SON) is hosting the dance. The cost of $20 includes snacks and drinks. For more information, send an email to Ana at: agrobe2@gmail.com.

RETREAT: POPE FRANCIS’ APOSTOLIC EXHORTATION ON HOLINESS Christ’s Peace House of Prayer 22131 Meagher Rd., Easton July 28 and 29

Learn about making informed decisions about death-related services consistent with your values in a presentation by Steve Nicely.

The retreat will begin on July 28 at 9 a.m. and end on the 29th at 4 p.m. There will be several talks, Mass on Saturday evening at the local parish, daily eucharistic adoration and private time for prayer. The cost is $85 per person or $125 for couples. To attend, send an email to: info@christspeace.com or call (913) 773-8255.

CARD PARTY Holy Cross Parish 8311 W. 93rd St., Overland Park July 24 from 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

SUMMER SIPS FOR SCHOLARSHIPS Boulevard Brewery 2501 Southwest Blvd., Kansas City, Missouri July 29 from 5 - 8 p.m.

St. Benedict’s Circle will host a card party and luncheon (or game of your choice). The cost to attend is $12. Men are welcome. For more information or to RSVP, call LuAnn at (913) 888-5534 or Judy at (913) 732-2435.

FLUSH PICNIC St. Joseph Parish 8965 Flush Rd., St. George July 25 at 5 p.m.

The annual Flush picnic will feature fried chicken dinners. The cost is $10 for adults; and $5 for kids. Games and concessions will be available on the grounds. There will also be quilt raffles.

Tickets are $50 each. Proceeds from the event will go toward scholarships for Resurrection School in Kansas City, Kansas. For more information, send an email to Julie Mayfield at: jmayfield@rcskck.org. Tickets and sponsorships are on sale online at: www.rcskck.org.

RUMMAGE SALE Sacred Heart Parish 408 S. Cedar, Ottawa Aug. 2 from 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Aug. 3 from 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., half price Aug. 4 from 7:30 a.m. - noon, brown-bag special

There will be furniture, appliances, clothing, holiday items, books and more. The brownbag special is $2 for two bags.

JOHN BEGGS MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT Sunflower Hills Golf Course 12200 Riverview Ave., Bonner Springs Aug. 3 at noon

Registration is at noon. Shotgun start is at 1 p.m. The cost for an individual player entry is $95; team is $380. Lunch, dinner, beverages and door prizes will be provided.

Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information or to reserve spots, call Ashley Calderon at (913) 634-8076 or Luke Folscroft at (913) 721-0333.

SUMMER FEST St. Lawrence Church 211 W. Riley, Easton Aug. 4 from 4 - 7:30 p.m.

St. Joseph-St. Lawrence Parish is hosting this event to celebrate summer. The cost for a meal is: $8 for adults; $5 for kids 10 and under. There will be a home-cooked chicken dinner, a raffle, children’s activities, a cakewalk, bingo and fun.

ROAST BEEF DINNER St. Casimir Parish 719 Pennsylvania, Leavenworth Aug. 5 from 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

The cost for a roast beef dinner is $10 for adults; and $5 for kids 12 and under. Takeout will be available.

CHIPOTLE FUNDRAISER FOR CATHOLIC CHARITIES - LAWRENCE Chipotle 4000 W. 6th St., Lawrence Aug. 6 from 4 - 8 p.m.

Make dinner a selfless act by purchasing a meal and telling the cashier you are supporting this cause to make sure 33 percent of the proceeds will be donated to support the food pantry.

ST. STANISLAUS PICNIC St. Stanislaus 701 S. Main, Rossville Aug. 10 Aug. 12

A beer garden will be featured on Aug. 10 from 5:30 - 11:30 p.m. and on Aug. 12 from 4 - 6:30 p.m. On Aug. 12, there will be bingo and a silent auction at 3 p.m., as well as Mass at 7 p.m. These events will be held in conjunction with the Rossville Tall Corn Festival.

‘FINDING ADAM, FINDING EVE — AUTHENTIC LOVE IN THE HOOKUP CULTURE’ Aug. 10 at 6:30 p.m.

35. For more information, including location, send an email to Michael or Katie Palitto at: calledtolove143@gmail.com or call them at (913) 488-7083. For information about the program, go online to: m.facebook.com/ giftofself143.

BENEFIT DINNER St. Joseph Parish 11311 Johnson Dr., Shawnee Aug. 11 at 6 p.m.

The cost for an authentic Brazilian stroganoff meal is a freewill donation. The dinner is a benefit for the Fraternity the Poor of Jesus Christ mission in Nicaragua.

BINGO NIGHT Sacred Heart Parish 2646 S. 34th St., Kansas City, Kansas Aug. 11 at 7 p.m.

Sacred Heart Knights of Columbus will be hosting the event. There will be cash prizes and concessions will be sold. For more information, call (913) 850-3349.

PILGRIMAGE Sanctuary of Hope Retreat Center 2601 Ridge Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Aug. 10 - 12

Father Joseph Arsenault, SSA, will lead a pilgrimage to the Marian shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Lacrosse, Wisconsin. Participants will leave from the Sanctuary of Hope Retreat Center. Pilgrimages to holy places help us on the most important pilgrimage of all: our journey through our human life on earth to our eternal destination with God in heaven. For more information, call Julie at (913) 321-4673; send an email to: julie@ sanctuaryofhope.org; or go to the website at: www.sanctuaryofhope.org.

CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT Ironhorse Country Club 12700 Overbrook Rd., Leawood Sept. 17 at 1:30 p.m.

Tee off is at 1:30 p.m. The cost of $125 per person, $500 per team, includes golf, driving range, dinner awards banquet and refreshments on the course. This is a four-person scramble with age-handicapped tee offs. Contact David Whitaker by email at: dwhitaker416@gmail.com or call him at (913) 626-2676 for registration information and corporate sponsorships.

DIVORCED: CALLED TO LOVE AGAIN Church of the Ascension (St. Luke Room) 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park 2nd and 4th Sundays from 7 - 8:30 p.m.

What’s next after divorce/annulment? Join us for a formation series on the gift of self, which helps us fulfill the call to love again.

Visit the Facebook page at: www.facebook. com/giftofself143 or send an email to: calledtolove143@gmail.com.

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JULY 20, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY

It’s not all bad being second best

SIXTEENTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME July 22 SIXTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Jer 23: 1-6 Ps 23: 1-6 Eph 2: 13-18 Mk 6: 30-34 July 23 Bridget, religious Mi 6: 1-4, 6-8 Ps 50: 5-6, 8-9, 16-17, 21, 23 Mt 12: 38-42 July 24 Sharbel Makhluf, priest Mi 7: 14-15, 18-20 Ps 85: 2-8 Mt 12: 46-50 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 Jer 2: 1-3, 7-8, 12-13 Ps 36: 6-11 Mt 13: 10-17 July 27 Friday Jer 3: 14-17 (Ps) Jer 31: 10-13 Mt 13: 18-23 July 28 Jer 7: 1-11 Ps 84: 3-6, 8, 11 Mt 13: 24-30 SEVENTEENTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME July 29 SEVENTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Kgs 4: 42-44 Ps 145: 10-11, 15-16, 17-18 Eph 4: 1-6 Jn 6: 1-15 July 30 Peter Chrysologus, bishop, doctor of the church Jer 13: 1-11 (Ps) Dt 32: 18-21 Mt 13: 31-35 July 31 Ignatius of Loyola, priest Jer 14: 17-22 Ps 79: 8-9, 11, 13 Mt 13: 36-43 Aug. 1 Alphonsus Liguori, bishop, doctor of the church Jer 15: 10, 16-21 Ps 59: 2-4, 10-11, 17-18 Mt 13: 44-46 Aug. 2 Eusebius of Vercelli, bishop; Peter Julian Eymard, priest Jer 18: 1-6 Ps 146: 1-6 Mt 13: 47-53 Aug. 3 Jer 26: 1-9 Ps 69: 5, 8-10, 14 Mt 13: 54-58 Aug. 4 John Vianney, priest Jer 26: 11-16 Ps 69: 15-16, 20-21 Mt 14: 1-12

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T

he burning question last week was: “Father, are we still having 10:30 Mass on Sunday?”

The reason for the question was the World Cup final at 10 a.m. last Sunday. My parishioners thought I might be a tad bit interested in watching the game, since I played soccer in high school and enjoy Sporting KC. Oh, yeah, there was one other “little” reason: The land of my grandparents — Croatia — was playing for the championship.

I told folks not to worry because I’d still be able to follow the game from St. John’s Catholic Club at my home parish in Kansas City, Kansas.

In response to their puzzled looks, I showed them a picture on my phone of a shirt worn by a friend’s father that said: “I’m not yelling, I’m Croatian.”

Let’s just say that the Creator endowed Croatians with a volume switch that starts on LOUD and goes up from

MARK MY WORDS

FATHER MARK GOLDASICH Father Mark is the pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie. He has been editor of The Leaven since 1989.

there.

Since Tonganoxie is only 28 miles from KCK, I’d easily be able to hear the cheers.

Seriously, in case you’re wondering, we had Mass as usual. I felt that God, knowing how nervous I get watching sports, wanted me in the best place possible: praying at church.

Did I pray for Croatia?

You bet. Did I pray that they’d win? No. I figure God has

much more important issues to be concerned about, like war, hunger and injustice. My prayer was simply that the Croatians would play the best that they could.

So, yes, I was disappointed that Croatia lost 4-2. But I remain proud of what they accomplished. After all, being second best in the world isn’t too shabby.

There were a lot of wins as the World Cup unfolded, but many of them weren’t on the playing field: • The World Cup gave people a chance to come together, face to face. Since so much of our interaction seems to happen virtually

anymore, it was refreshing to see hundreds of people gathered on the grounds of my home parish simply enjoying one another’s company.

• In our world that’s so often troubled and worrisome, what a delicious release to experience a temporary diversion through the Cup. Seeing people cheering, laughing and singing restored hope into our days.

• The World Cup gave me an excuse to learn more about my roots. For example, one prominent feature of the Croatian flag — as well as the attire of its fans — is its checkerboard pattern. What’s up with that?

According to the Croatia Times, legend has it that Croatian king Drzislav waged war over Dalmatia with a Venetian doge, Peter II Orseolo. Drzislav was captured and thrown into a dungeon. Eventually, the doge learned that the king, like him, shared a passion for chess. This led to a tempting offer: If Drzislav could beat

Orseolo at chess three times in a row, he would regain his freedom.

Well, the Croatian king did it and to commemorate that victory added the chessboard to the Croatian insignia.

True? Who knows?

Intriguing? Yeah.

• Lastly, the Cup gave people a glimpse into the world I grew up in. In place of last names like Smith and Jones, we had Modrcin, Delich, Sandelich, Sutulovich, Yadrich, Kucenic, Mikesic, Yarnevich, Cavlovic, Vrbanic and Tomasic, to name a few.

So, it was a treat for me to hear the game’s announcers pronouncing Rakitic, Subasic, Peresic, Strinic and Modric.

And when they got to Vrsaljko and Mandzukic, I pictured them asking, “Uh, could I please buy a vowel?”

Even though Croatia’s loss wasn’t the fairy tale ending I’d hoped for, I relished the entire exciting ride and simply say to God, “Hvala lijepa!” (“Thank you very much!”)

Loaves and fish — better than a spiritual food truck

W

here large crowds gather, food vendors frequently follow. They may be selling funnel cakes, hamburgers, corn dogs — anything to satisfy the crowd’s desires.

No one needs to go hungry.

So, why is it that the apostles find it so difficult for themselves to eat? Sunday’s Gospel reading, Mk 6:30-34, tells us: “People were coming and going in great numbers, and they had no opportunity even to eat.”

Why would large numbers of people interfere with the ability of the apostles to eat? If they were cramped up in a small room, maybe, but that does not appear to be the case here.

This dilemma reflects

THE GOSPEL TRUTH

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

the situation reported in Mk 3:20, which we heard recently in the Gospel reading for June 10.

There, the presence of the crowd also

keeps the apostles from eating: “Jesus came home with his disciples. Again the crowd gathered, making it impossible for them even to eat.”

But notice, they apparently are in a house, in Jesus’ home. The difficulty sounds more understandable.

In any case, the presence of a large crowd and the inability to eat looks forward to the event which next Sunday’s

POPE FRANCIS As war continues to threaten the land of Jesus’ birth and to undermine the existence of Christian communities there, the international community must learn from the errors of the past and do more to bring lasting peace to the Middle East, Pope Francis said.

“Do not forget the previous century; do not forget the lessons of Hiroshima and Nagasaki; do not let the land of the East, where the Word of peace arose, be transformed into a dark expanse of silence,” the pope said after a private meeting

Gospel reading will describe: the multiplication of the loaves and the fish.

We will hear the account of that event from John’s Gospel. Because of its great importance, accounts of that event appear in all four Gospels.

At any rate, Sunday’s Gospel reading sets the scene for that miracle by gathering the crowd.

People hear about the apostles’ plan to travel to a deserted place.

Consequently, “they hastened there on foot from all the towns and arrived at the place before them.”

The crowd that has assembled is hungry — not for physical food, but rather for the word of God, for Jesus’ teachings. That is the first need that Jesus attends to: “When he disembarked and saw the

vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them, for they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things.”

Eventually though, because the crowd is not made up of disembodied spirits, but rather flesh-and-blood people, they will also hunger for physical food.

However, there are no food trucks or vendors.

Instead, Jesus will oblige them with the miracle of the multiplication of the loaves and fish. In satisfying that physical need, though, Jesus will also address their spiritual hungers with his teaching on himself as the bread of life.

The Gospel readings for the next few Sundays, all from John’s Gospel, will look at that in great depth.

with the heads of Christian churches and communities in the Middle East.

Pope Francis traveled July 7 to the southern Italian Adriatic port city of Bari to host a day of reflection and ecumenical prayer for peace in the Middle East. Arriving by helicopter in the early morning, the pope stood in front of the Basilica of St. Nicholas and greeted the patriarchs and other representatives of Christian churches. Among them was Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople, Coptic Orthodox Pope Tawadros II of Alexandria and Greek Orthodox Patriarch Theodoros II of Alexandria and all Africa. Metropolitan Hilarion of Volokolamsk, head of external relations for the Russian Orthodox Church, represented Russian Orthodox Patriarch Kirill of Moscow.

— CNS

JULY 20, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CLASSIFIEDS >> Continued from page 12

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We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Laurie, Pat or Gary.

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I NEED HOUSES! - We are members of Holy Trinity Parish and we pay cash for any real estate without any realtor commissions or fees. If you would like an easy, no-hassle sale at a fair price, please call me. We have 13 years of experience. Mark Edmondson, (913) 980-4905.

Mass at 9 a.m. on Aug. 4

MT CALVARY KCK Frances Adney Mary Ann Broddle Brenda Bowen Helen E. Cook Rosemary Cindrich Loreto Dehesa Julia F. Dorsey Raymond Eskina Angeline Glover Filamena Heier M. Joan Hoffman Rose A. Janes Thomas R. Janssen Jacqueline L. Justice Loren L. Keltner Mary Ann Korona Jovita Martinez Irene Paulhe Agnes Pavicic Lucio Pecina Lynn Potter Rafael Rodriguez Lawrence F. Schmalz Mary Ann Stephens Emilie M. Verbeck Catherine Wilkins RESURRECTION Robert Adriano Robert Alpiser Frank A. Ancona Paul F. Antes Jeffrey Bailey Anthony Bartoszek Frances E. Basola Mildred C. Bock Roger Bucheit Harry W. Buckman

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 to buy - Antique/vintage jewelry, paintings, pottery, sterling, etc. Single pieces or estate. Renee Maderak, (913) 475-7393. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.

BUYING AN AD To purchase a Leaven classified ad, email The Leaven at: beth.blankenship@theleaven.org. Cost is $20 for the first five lines, $1.50 per line thereafter. Ad deadline is 10 days before the desired publication date.

Prince of Peace Chapel Resurrection Cemetery 83rd and Quivira Rd. Lenexa, Kan.

Albert Bukovaz Judith Burger Todd Brinkman Matthias Caro Charles T. Charles Gavyn J. Couch Mary T. Coon Wilbert E. Coon Patrick Cullinan Mary A. Daniels Michael Donaldson Albert R. Frank Anna F. Goebel Dilsa Gonzalez Martha Hauser Elizabeth Hoang Elizabeth A. Huesman Jeanne A. Hughes John D. Jacobson Karsyn Grace Kaup John Kettler Maria Khaleghi Beverly Kilkenny Mary L. Kirby Robert T. Kirby Charlotte Ann King Mary E. Kirk Carl Klusman Cyril Kongs Augustine Michael Kutz Joseph Patrick Kutz Samuel Thomas Kutz Elsie Lauer Yvonne A. Lawler Richard Lippoli Joanne E. Lynch Terry T.C. Madsen Daniel Mann James R. Marsee

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Dixie Martens Larry F. Martens Barbara McReynolds Manuel Mendoza Paul Mispagel Paul A. Moccia Mary Mook Mary Morris John J. O’Brien Maurice V. O’Connor Genevieve A. Ostrowski Ramon P. Palos Cedillo Marie Pepper Ruth Portell Joel Reed William G. Rice Jr. Mildred Rieke Dr. Anthony Romito Margaret Schrader Charles R. Self Jane K. Sengpiehl George Shore David Slater Steven A. Spalding Marie Sokol Charlene E. Taylor Joan E. Taylor Martha Tobin Robert Van Maren Amrita Venkatesh Ricardo Villegas Fred Voss Rosemary Voss Betty Walstrom Carole Weaver Jamie E. Weber Bettie E. Whitney Donna Wilhelmi Travis M. Wirtz

Holy Redeemer Chapel Gate of Heaven Cemetery 126th and Parallel Kansas City, Kan.

Glen D. Winter Theresa Wisniewski Ruby Wittman Robert Wren ST. JOSEPH Lisa J. Coplen Teresa Ann Rogers M. Joyce Soetaert David Takacs Glenna Van Keirsbilck GATE OF HEAVEN Carol Eker Barbara A. Hawkins Ryan P. Howes Ervin J. Marshall Barbara Purinton Rebecca A. Sachen Olga E. Sedler Michael J. Tanner Hue Thao

JULY 20, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

SUMMERTIME SADNESS

16

FAN FAVORITE

PHOTOS BY LORI WOOD HABIGER

Monsignor Michael Mullen, senior associate at St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee, accommodates autograph seekers at the fifth annual Pitching for Priests softball game.

Young fans were given complementary baseball cards of all the priest-players.

The offense for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas withered in the July 6 heat down the stretch of the fifth annual Pitching for Priests softball game. While the archdiocese struggled to score runs, the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph kept chipping away at the lead, tying the game at 15-15 at the end of the six regulation innings. After the archdiocese pushed across one run in the seventh inning, KC-St. Joe was able to score two for a 17-16 victory.

DAZZLING DEBUT

Apostles of the Interior Life Father Vince Huber made his Pitching for Priests debut by going two for three with two RBIs.

INTENSITY

Father Scott Wallisch, pastor of St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, commands his place at the center of the field during intense play.

REVERSAL OF FORTUNES

Umpire Tom Winkelbauer of the archdiocesan accounting office explains to new vocations director Father Dan Morris why his inside-the-park home run was changed to a ground-rule double.