08-01-08 Vol. 30 No. 3

NEWSPAPER OF THE ARCHDIOCESE OF KANSAS CITY IN KANSAS

WWW.THELEAVEN.COM

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VOL. 30, NO. 3 AUGUST 1, 2008

ONE FOR THE KIDS

Emily Novak reads aloud from “My First Bible” to the children of St. Theresa’s Orphanage in Zagreb, Croatia, during her visit there in June. An instructional video she helped make raised funds for improvements at the orphanage.

Emily Novak made a video to help orphans half a world away.

This summer, she got a chance to meet them.

A

s anyone who’s ever tried a slice of the rich, nutty delicacy knows, a little povitica can go a long

way.

But seldom have some loaves baked on Strawberry Hill in Kansas City, Kan., nourished people half a world away.

That’s exactly what happened, however, when St. John the Baptist parishioner Emily Novak put her povi-making skills to the test and at the request of Don Wolf, helped make an instruction-

al video on how to make the “[The orphans] just loved her,” Croatian treat. said Wolf, a photographer, who Wolf, also originally from “the made the June 5-18 trip with Hill,” although now a Novak, her son parishioner of Christ Charles, and Al Janes STORY BY the King Parish in from Overland Park.

JOE BOLLIG Kansas City, Kan., “They laughed and packaged the video hugged her. These PHOTOS BY (and later a DVD) kids really need hugs.

DON WOLF and sold it to benefit They are so full of life two orphanages in and hugs. It was realCroatia. ly hard to leave This past June, the 84-year-old them.”

Novak was able to witness the The generous hugs from the orfruits of her baking labors when phans at St. Theresa’s Orphanage she traveled to Croatia to meet the in Zagreb and St. Joseph’s children of that and a second orOrphanage in Leskovac, Croatia, phanage, and the Sisters who care for them.

See “Video” on page 16

MEMORY GARDEN Prairie Star Ranch has a new shrine to

REFUGEE FARMERS Refugee women from all over the

honor one of the ranch’s biggest supporters. Antoinette Berkel died in 2006, but her memory will live on in the Sacred Heart shrine and garden.

Page 3

world who have made their way to the Kansas City area are finding new life as farmers — as well as hope for themselves and their children.

Pages 7-9

LOCAL NEWS

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ANNIVERSARIES Melvin and Zita (Phillips) Bergman, members of St. Mary Parish, St. Benedict, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on July 20 with a Mass at the church, celebrated by Father Walter Phillips, Zita’s brother. The couple was married on July 20, 1948, at Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Seneca. Their children and their spouses are: Daniel (deceased); Ed and Kim Bergman; Mike and Brenda Bergman; and Jerry Bergman. After Mass, their family hosted a dinner at Valentino’s in Seneca, followed by an open house.

Eileen (Bunck) and Walt Wohletz, members of St. Ann P a r i s h Effingham, will celebrate their 60th anniversary on Aug. 2 with a family dinner. The couple was married on July 28, 1948, at St. Joseph Church in Everest. Their children and their spouses are: Gary and Wendy Wohletz, Little River; and Dale and Julie Wohletz, Natchitoches, La. They also have nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Kenneth and Louise Barr, members of Church of the Nativity, Leawood, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on July 19 with a blessing at the 5 p.m. Mass, followed by a reception with family and friends at Deer Creek Golf Club. The couple was married on July 19, 1958, at St. Therese Little Flower Church in Kansas City, Mo. Their children and their spouses are: Don and Monica Peter; Gary and Theresa Barr; and Richard and Linda Barr. They also have seven grandchildren.

Farrell and Judith Snyder, members of St. Ann P a r i s h , Hiawatha, will celebrate their 50th wedding with a blessing at the 5 p.m.

Mass on Aug. 9 and a reception on Aug. 10 at the church. The couple was married on Aug. 9, 1958, at St. James Church, Wetmore. Their children and their spouses are: Kerry and Parrish Meredith, Overland Park; Kent and Sarah Snyder, Wamego; and Kellie and Mike Brockhoff, Fairview. They also have six grandchildren.

Former St. Patrick Day Care director pleads guilty to theft KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Nancy Ann Fisackerly, Lenexa, pleaded guilty on July 22 in Wyandotte County District Court before District Judge Jan A. Way to one count of theft of property with a value over $25,000 and two counts of making false information.

All three counts are felonies, arising from the theft of funds from the

day care center at St. Patrick Church in Kansas City, Kan., over a four-and-a half-year time period from April 2003 to October 2007. As a condition of the plea, Fisackerly agreed to pay restitution of $532,817.74 .

Sentencing in the case is set for Aug. 22 at 11:30 a.m. in Division 4 of the district court.

Archbishop to speak about St. Paul on Aug. 1 KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann will be the co-presenter Aug. 1 on the theme of “Ecclesiology and the Eucharist in St. Paul’s Letters” at a joint Protestant and Catholic dialogue as a special guest of Benedictine College School of Faith

and Eastside Church of the Cross.

The presentation will be at Eastside Church of the Cross, 1 Aquatic Drive, Louisburg, from 6:30-9 p.m. All interested people are invited to attend.

To learn more, visit the Web site at: www.benedictine.edu/sof.

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THE LEAVEN

SECOND FRONT PAGE

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SHRINE HONORS A LEGACY OF DEVOTION TO

FAITH AND FAMILY

By JILL RAGAR ESFELD Special to The Leaven

Gerald Tuckwin (Prairie Band Potawatomi), his granddaughter Anna Tuckwin, Jean Finch, and Terry Tuckwin represented the Haskell Catholic Campus Center in Lawrence at the Tekakwitha Conference in Edmonton, Alberta.

Haskell Campus Center sends four to Tekakwitha Conference EDMONTON, Alberta — Traveling to northern Canada, Gerry and Terry Tuckwin, Jean Finch, and Anna Tuckwin represented Lawrence’s Haskell Catholic Campus Center community at the 69th annual Tekakwitha Conference here from July 2 - 6. The conference gathers Catholic Native Americans, as well as those who minister to them, for a celebration of Native American culture and Catholic faith.

“One Heart, All Nations” was the theme of this year’s gathering, hosted by the Métis Nation of Alberta and other nearby First Nation communities. Workshops were offered on such topics as liturgy, inculturated prayers and Native spirituality, and catechetical formation. The latter workshop was led by Jean Finch, the catechist at the Haskell Catholic

Campus Center.

A highlight for those making the pilgrimage was a bus trip to the nearby Lac Ste. Anne Shrine.

The lake was called “God’s lake” by the Nakota Sioux and “Lake of the Spirit” by the Cree before the arrival of European settlers.

The lake was renamed Lac Ste. Anne by Father Jean-Baptiste Thibault who began a mission there to the Métis people in the late 1800s. Pilgrims from all over the world come to the shrine at Lac Ste. Anne to pray and seek healing for body and spirit.

The closing liturgy for the Tekakwitha Conference was held at the shrine’s huge amphitheatre.

There it was announced that the site of the gathering will return to the United States in 2010. The conference will convene in Raleigh, N.C.

Sale to benefit Ugandan school STILWELL — There will be a benefit garage sale here from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Aug. 1-2 at 16340 Dearborn Drive.

The sale will benefit St. Joan of Arc Elementary School in Uganda.

Father Simon Peter Kyambadde, a

Ugandan priest, started the school in February of this year, and the school now has more than 300 students.

All items not sold will be donated to Catholic Charities and its TurnStyles thrift store.

WILLIAMSBURG — No one at Prairie Star Ranch here was surprised when the feast day of Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha dawned sunny and mild.

The namesake of the many camp sessions that are held here at the ranch had blessed them with a perfect day for Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann to dedicate the new Sacred Heart shrine and garden.

Both were built to honor the memory of Antoinette Berkel, who died in 2006; a perpetual endowment scholarship in her name was established at the camp by her husband Charles.

The garden features red crape myrtles and knockout roses surrounding a statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The Berkels were longtime members of Sacred Heart Parish in Bonner Springs (now Shawnee), and Antoinette’s favorite color was red.

The garden was landscaped and planted by Prairie Star staff. Camp director Dana Nearmyer said he worked closely with Berkel to make Photos clockwise from top: ■ The sure the garden featured Antoinette’s Antoinette Berkel Memorial Garden favorite flowers. features the Sacred Heart of Jesus “I wanted this to be something surrounded by Antoinette’s favorite that would really bless his heart and flowers: red crape myrtles and the family’s heart for all of the genknockout roses. ■ After the dedicaerosity they’ve displayed to the archtion, Charles Berkel took a moment diocese over the years,” he said. to pose with his daughters, Glori But the garden’s beauty is far Berkel (left) and Danielle Berkelmore than aesthetic. It stands as a Uhrmacher. ■ After the memorial symbol to the many children attendgarden dedication, seminarian ing the camps of sacramental marDaniel Schmitz presented each guest riage and lifelong stewardship. with a red carnation. Red was Antoinette left a legacy of devoAntoinette Berkel’s favorite color. tion not only to her camp experiCatholic faith, but to ence, the conher husband and famiAntoinette Berkel gregation would ly as well. come to see “We created the Memorial Garden themselves as God shrine and garden be(dedication plaque) sees them and learn cause we’re trying to to be good stewards find role models for “Charlie and Toni of his gifts. these kids to follow,” Berkel, dedicated mem“Take the gifts that Nearmyer explained. bers of Sacred Heart God has entrusted to “Charlie’s and Parish, have spent their you and use them to Antoinette’s love for lives creating opportuniglorify God,” he told each other was very ty and a feeling of the campers. “In obvious, and they goodness in the lives of everything, experiwere always giving to others. The Berkels serve ence the love of Jesus the community. We as an inspirational exChrist.” want to hold that example of a marriage Antoinette, said ample up to the kids.” that is rooted in faith, the archbishop, was a A busload of the devotion, kindness and “great example to us Berkels’ family and palpable love. While of what it means to be friends accompanied running their highly rea disciple of Jesus Charlie and his two spected business, the Christ.” daughters to the dediloving parents of four Being a disciple, he sought ways to make cation, where they explained, means carthe unreachable attainwere joined by 150 able for others. Their rying the love of Jesus campers. The ceremostrong belief in kindness to others in our own ny began with a song and generosity flowed lives. and a reading from the from their belief in Jesus “Toni tried to be first chapter of the Christ. The Berkels’ comthat love in our world Book of Genesis. In his mitment to supporting today,” he noted. homily, the archbishthe growth of Catholic After the dedicaop echoed Nearmyer’s education has allowed tion, Prairie Star hostsentiments, saying the many to attend school ed a dinner for the Berkels were a couple and to experience guests and then the who understood the Camp Tekakwitha. archbishop celebratcall to married life and Antoinette’s memory ed Mass for the had a great sense of lives in the laughter and campers and staff. stewardship. dreams of the countless The Berkels’ He expressed his children her life has and youngest daughter, hope that through the will intersect.”

Danielle, was moved by the event and the recognition given to her parents.

“It was so perfect and just beautiful out there,” she said. “All their lives, Mom and Dad have been strong in their Catholic faith. They were blessed in this life to do well financially, and one thing I’ve always admired about them is they give back.”

Berkel described his wife as a versatile artist who wrote poems for him, played various instruments, sang in the church choir and enjoyed painting — especially portraits of her friends. Her greatest love, he said, was for children.

“When we got married, one of her first desires was to have children, and one of her biggest disappointments was when she couldn’t have any,” Berkel recalled.

The death of their first adopted child, a son, in a car accident was another crushing blow.

But the Berkels went on to adopt another son, who now lives with his own family in Miami, and two daughters, who attended the dedication.

Over the years, the couple established many scholarships to ensure children could receive a good education, something Berkel sees as the greatest gift he has to give.

“Probably that’s the one thing I

have left to do in my life — help others get scholarships and education because I think that’s one of the most important things today,” he said. “I think education makes a difference — if you have one, you have an advantage.”

The Camp Tekakwitha endowment, on the other hand, promotes education of a different sort.

Nearmyer said the endowment will make it possible for many children to attend camp and experience Christ in nature who otherwise would have been unable to do so.

“We really try to work closely with families to get as many kids here as possible,” he said. “We hope it provides an opportunity for conversion experiences and education, but we want them to experience Christ in a really palpable way.”

“That was one of the finest things that’s happened to me for quite some time,” concluded Berkel at the end of the day. “I’m really proud of what they’ve done and, of course, I’m proud of my wife. If she could only be here, she would be thrilled.”

But Antoinette’s spirit will live on at Prairie Star Ranch, said Nearmyer.

“We believe that Antoinette’s memory is going to live in the laughter of children for many, many years,” he said. “Isn’t that the legacy we all desire?”

LOCAL NEWS

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THE LEAVEN

Learning about life through death

By JILL RAGAR ESFELD Special to The Leaven OVERLAND PARK — It’s hard to imagine deriving joy from dealing with death.

But Catholic Charities Hospice volunteers insist their work with the dying is among the most rewarding things they’ve ever done.

Ten-year volunteer Richard Ziman is a case in point. Ziman joined the Hospice team to pay back, in a way, for help he received from Catholic Charities when he was a young man.

“I went broke,” he said bluntly. “I was sleeping in bus stations.

“I didn’t know what to do, so I finally went to Catholic Charities. They really helped me. They put me up for a week and gave me a meal ticket.”

Forty years later, Ziman again found himself in crisis.

But this time the problem was emotional rather than financial; he was suffering from severe depression.

“My wife saw an ad in the church bulletin about Catholic Charities Hospice and she suggested I get involved,” he said.

“I remembered how Catholic Charities had helped me, and I thought it was payback time.”

Despite the fact that Ziman called with the intention of giving of himself, he’s once again found himself on the receiving end of Catholic Charities. “[Volunteering with Hospice] put me back into my original self and got me out of the depressed state I was in,” he said. “It just put me in a different frame of mind, and it really helped me.”

Ziman, a parishioner at St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kan., was one of the program’s very first volunteers. He and fellow volunteer Mary Leonard, a parishioner at Curé of Ars Church in Leawood, were honored for 10 years of service last month at a barbecue celebrating the program’s 10th anniversary.

In giving, we receive Leonard sounds a lot like Ziman when she describes the impact volunteering has had on her life.

“It helps me keep in mind how precious life is,” she said.

them as they are taking this final journey here on earth.”

Mike Jurkovich, director of health care services for Catholic Charities, called the volunteers “invaluable” and noted that both Ziman and Leonard are involved not just with Hospice, but with Catholic Charities in general, “They’ve been very generous to give back as much as they have over the last 10 years,” he said. “They just typify the commitment that we feel from our volunteers.”

Care in the home Hospice volunteers manager Betty Marler (left) presents a commemorative clock to Mary Leonard in recognition of her 10 years of service.

At a barbecue held to honor Hospice volunteers, Richard Ziman (left) shares his enthusiasm for the program with Mary Leonard.

“Certainly there is sadness that you share with the family, but I think there’s a grace that is given that helps you, too.”

“I feel like I see people at the end of their lives and they have discovered what’s really important,” she continued. “It’s always faith and family.”

Betty Marler, who manages the Hospice volunteers, isn’t surprised at their reaction.

“Every volunteer will come back and say, ‘Betty, I have gotten more out of Hospice than I have given,’” she said.

“We learn a lot from the dying,” she added. “We learn that it is not a scary time. And honestly, we feel so blessed to have that opportunity to be with

Catholic Community Hospice provides in-home care for the terminally ill throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area and Topeka. Assisting in that care are approximately 80 volunteers.

According to Jurkovich, a Hospice volunteer can render any service that does not fall under the category of direct patient care, such as administering medication.

“They can support the patient in a variety of ways,” he explained. “They’ll sit with the patient and families, read to them, watch television with them, or do some activities in the home.”

Ziman said he often does odd chores — getting the mail, feeding the dog, doing the dishes. He recalled a patient who was tired of the food in her nursing home and wanted some of the “colonel’s chicken” – so he went to KFC and got that for her.

“Everybody is different and everybody goes through a different process,” he said. “You have to just play it by ear a lot of times.”

Marler explained that the first rule of Hospice care is to treat the patient as a person with dignity.

“You always treat them as who they are, not a dying person,” she said. “They are still that mother, that father; they’re still that accountant, whatever they were [before they grew ill].”

Faith in action Sharing and supporting the patient’s faith is another important volunteer responsibility, one that is tailored to the needs of each patient.

“I read Scripture, I pray with them. If they’re not conscious, sometimes I’ll pray the rosary out loud or I’ll just read Scripture,” said Leonard. “I’ve brought the Eucharist to people who are near death, and I think it’s such a privilege. I always feel God’s presence.”

Like all Catholic Charities programs, Catholic Community Hospice serves patients of all denominations. Since some 50 percent of its clients are not Catholic, Hospice volunteers have learned to meet patients wherever they are in their faith life . . . and to evangelize with actions, not words.

“We don’t go in to tell them about God or our religion,” explained Marler. “We go in with our spirituality and let that come through. All we need to do is meet them where they are and show them God’s work.”

Volunteer appreciation Volunteering for Hospice is rewarding, but it can also be challenging. Marler keeps volunteers strong and able by making sure they are well-trained, appreciated and supported.

All volunteers go through 14 hours of training before they begin working with patients.

Throughout the year, Marler has monthly meetings where volunteers attend required inservice workshops or “have a good time getting together.”

Those good times can include anything from a movie night with hot dogs and popcorn to a field trip to the Arabia Steamboat Museum in Kansas City, Mo. Marler said she tries to help the volunteers feel like a team.

“Betty is a big support,” said Leonard. “She gives us time as volunteers to get together — and her husband, Jim, is always there, doing the cooking.”

Coming full circle This close-knit team will soon have the opportunity to support one of their own. Ziman retired from his Hospice work a year ago because he is battling cancer.

“I’ll have to call Hospice soon,” he said, “because my liver is failing me and my kidney is failing.”

But Ziman said his time with

• AUGUST 1, 2008

When should you contact Catholic Community Hospice?

Sooner rather than later, says Mike Jurkovich, director of health care services.

“People wait too long to get into hospice, thinking it’s only for the last few days of life.

That’s not true; we’d like to have every patient for at least six months. That allows enough time to work through any family, spiritual or emotional issues.

Hospice doesn’t mean you’re giving up; it means you’ve accepted the situation and now you’re going to try to do something about it.”

What happens when you contact hospice?

“You would talk to an intake coordinator who would gather some information and offer an informational visit about what your options are.

It’s an opportunity for our admission nurse or another one of our staff members to go out and explain to the family and the patient what hospice is and what it can do in their circumstances — whether they live in a nursing facility or at home. Informational visits last two to three hours most of the time. It’s not a commitment on anybody’s part — it’s just getting educated with the facts that you have today with your own situation, and letting us apply hospice to that situation and see how it works.

“Invariably, everybody has a different perspective and there are so many questions that come up. We try to work patiently with every family; that’s why it takes two or three hours.”

■ For more information about Catholic Community Hospice, visit the Web site at: www. catholiccommunityhospice.com.

■ To become a Catholic Community Hospice volunteer, call Betty Marler at (913) 4332020 to set up an interview.

Hospice has been invaluable in helping him face that future “It helped me to cope with what I’ve got,” he said simply.

Leonard, likewise, feels she’s grown immeasurably from her volunteer experience.

“I’ve just met some incredible people who have lived wonderful lives and who are ready to face their God,” she said. “When my time comes, I hope that I will have the courage and peace and serenity that many of the patients have.”

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LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN

Father John Cordes, pastor of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Topeka, waves to the crowd as he travels the parade route of the 75th annual Fiesta Mexicana.

OPEKA — It saw the birth of the chocolate chip cookie, the screening of the original “King Kong,” and even the broadcast of the first episode of “The Lone Ranger.”

But in the archdiocese, 1933 might be most notable for something else entirely.

It was 75 years ago this summer that parishioners of Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in the Oakland neighborhood of Topeka, just east of the downtown area, decided to start organizing a neighborhood get-together that has grown into one of the capital’s signature events.

For lifelong Guadalupe parishioners Felipe and Mary Rangel, the result of those first get-togethers has been a tradition that has flavored the major life transitions of their lives and those of their children.

To this day, explained the couple, the Fiesta Mexicana brings even the most far-flung family and extended family back home to Topeka.

“The kids might not make it home for Christmas or Easter,” explained Mary, “but they come for fiesta.”

The fiesta started out as a simple outdoor gathering for parishioners, said Mary. Each summer, the event provided the primarily immigrant community a way to celebrate its common heritage with music, food and fun.

In the early days, parishioners simply brought their plates from home, filling them with the traditional Mexican fare when they arrived. Entertainment was as simple as listening to neighbors play and sing songs from their old homeland.

“Everybody knew everybody,” Felipe explained.

And soon dancing became a fixture of the fiesta as well.

“We’d rope off an area near the church, and for 25 or 50 cents,” he said, “you could dance. What little money we made went to the parish.”

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Monica DeLaGarza is presented to the crowd as the 2008 Fiesta Mexicana queen at the July 12 coronation ball.

Dancers aboard one of the floats entertain the crowd during the July 11 parade of the annual Topeka event.

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75 When the fiesta started to grow, parishioners started preparing the food at home in their own kitchens.

Many would grind the corn, roll the tortillas and fry them. Others would chop all the vegetables, prepare all the meat and fry the beans.

It was a system that worked well until fiesta-goers began numbering in the thousands instead of the hundreds.

The food kitchen now sells 7,000 to 8,000 servings each of tacos, burritos, enchiladas and tostadas every night during the five nights the festival is open to the Topeka community at large, said Mary.

And attendance averages 12,000 to 15,000 people a night, which means food preparation actually begins several months in advance and is coordinated by a committee of volunteers chaired by the Rangels’ daughter, Celia Vega.

Long since officially named the Fiesta Mexicana, the celebration has seen lots of other changes over the years as well.

In the early days, said Felipe, a vendor or two was added every year. Now, be-

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years STORY BY

MARC AND JULIE ANDERSON PHOTOS BY

MARC ANDERSON

tween the carnival, the vendors, the musical entertainment and the traditional dancers performing each night, the weeklong festival has grown to encompass several city blocks in the neighborhood.

The caliber of the entertainment has also changed quite a bit: Some of today’s hottest Latino bands perform at the fiesta. There’s still room for local bands and dancers, however, including Ballet Folklorico and the parish’s school dancers, each demonstrating in its own way the rich heritage of their shared culture.

Father John Cordes, the parish’s pastor, said Fiesta Mexicana is unlike anything he has ever witnessed or heard of at any other parish.

“It’s a very rich celebration of culture, tradition, heritage and faith,” he said.

As the fiesta has grown, so, too, has the number of volunteers — fortunately.

This year’s fiesta saw countless volunteers spend endless hours in a variety of tasks — from preparing and serving food

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in the kitchen to setting up the various stages; from garnering corporate sponsorships to washing pots and pans on the closing night. The amount of money raised each year has also grown, from just a few dollars to roughly $480,000.

Despite all the changes they’ve seen over the years, say the Rangels said, several things have stayed the same. First, the fiesta is every bit as family-centered as it ever was. It’s not uncommon, said Mary, to see several generations of a family working side by side. Nor is it unusual for families to boast several members of fiesta royalty — from different generations.

For example, the Rangel family can claim at least eight fiesta queens and princesses, including daughters Rita Rangel Bennett (1974), Celia Rangel Vega (1983), and Alicia Rangel Cordova (1993), in addition to several of Mary’s nieces and great-nieces.

Those strong family ties also help explain why family members who reside outside Kansas often plan their vacations around the fiesta, returning home to help.

But there is another reason that the fiesta is so important to parishioners, even those who have long since moved out-ofstate to places as far away as California, Texas and beyond.

From its very inception, Fiesta Mexicana’s primary mission has been to raise money for the parish school — to provide a quality Catholic education to students now and to keep Catholic education affordable for future generations.

That’s why the parish is making a concerted effort to get the younger generation involved in the annual fundraiser.

“We need the younger generation to get involved,” said Felipe. “We need the younger ones to step up and ensure [that the] fiesta lasts.”

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• AUGUST 1, 2008

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Co-presenter at the Year of St. Paul Ecumenical Forum co-sponsored by Queen of the Holy Rosary in Wea and Eastside Church of the Cross in Louisburg 4-7 Knights of Columbus Supreme Convention, Quebec 9 Mass and groundbreaking — Sts. Peter and Paul, Seneca 11 Vespers and dinner for seminarians — Archbishop’s residence 12 The Catholic Way radio taping Finance Council meeting 14 Miege auction dinner 15 Feast of the Assumption (holy day) 150th anniversary Mass — Assumption Parish, Edgerton 16 17 Install Father Tom Aduri as pastor of St. Theresa, Perry, and St. Aloysius, Meriden 23 Mass for special needs children — Savior Pastoral Center Bishop Ward auction dinner 24 Install Father Gabriel Landis as pastor of St. Ann, Hiawatha 25-26 Jesus Caritas bishops’ prayer meeting 26 Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas meeting Johnson County pastoral planning meeting 27 Johnson County pastoral planning meeting Catholic Charities benefit dinner 29 Support Our Seminarians auction dinner

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STORY BY KARA HANSEN | PHOTOS BY SUSAN MCSPADDEN

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — It’s an unlikely setting for a farm

HOW TO HELP Volunteers are needed to help with sales at Farmer’s Community Market in the Brookside neighborhood of Kansas City, Mo. Volunteers will help refugees interact with customers at the market — including being friendly and welcoming, answering questions, helping with weighing produce, figuring purchase totals, and making change. Program staff will be on hand.

Volunteers are also needed to help at the training farm site, and parish groups are encouraged to visit and help for a morning. To help, please contact Rachel Bonar at (913) 621-5255, ext. 187, or send her an e-mail at: rbonar@ ccsks.org.

Volunteer training will be held on Aug. 6, Aug. 28, Sept. 17, and Oct. 9. Each training session will be held at Catholic Charities at 2220 Central Ave. in Kansas City, Kan., at 6 p.m., and will last about an hour.

For more information, visit the New Roots for Refugees Web site at: www.newrootsforrefugees. blogspot.com.

— a former housing project site with the Kansas City skyline as a backdrop. But here women from diverse cultural backgrounds work the land largely by hand, all dressed in their traditional garb beneath the blazing midday sun. Their children play nearby, sometimes helping.

It is hard, exhausting work. But these women are growing more than vegetables. As refugees, they are literally cultivating their dreams.

“One of the women went to sell [her crop] at a farmers market for the first time and made her first sales,” explained Rachel Bonar, special programs coordinator at Catholic Charities.

“She earned $30 and was so excited!”

efugees flee their homelands to escape persecution of all kinds — racial, religious, political. These particular women are all Somali Bantu, Burmese Chin, Burmese Karen, Sudanese, or Burundian, and are participants in a program called “New Roots for Refugees,” a partnership between Catholic Charities and the Kansas City Center for Urban Agriculture that began in 2006.

When they joined the program, each woman chose to become either a market gardener to grow produce to sell at local farmers markets, or a community gardener to grow food for her own family.

“This program has really worked out well because most of the women don’t speak English, have no job experience, and have no reliable child care,” said Sharisa McDaniel, Catholic Charities Refugee Services coordinator. “This program allows them to set their own schedule and bring their children with them if they need to. It provides them a context for learning and using English, both on the farm and when they sell at the market.”

McDaniel said it is common for new refugees to socialize solely with other refugees with similar backgrounds and a common language. But for refugees to succeed in the United States in the long run, they need to both learn English and develop some social contacts outside of their refugee community.

“It can be very stressful coming to a new country as a refugee, especially coming from a less developed country to the United States,” said Bill Scholl, archdiocesan consultant for social justice.

“Building a network of contacts and friends who can help you is incredible social capital,” he noted.

One of the ways the New Roots for Refugees program has opened up social networking opportunities for these refugees has been to invite locals to join the women in cultivating their own small plots on the training farm. A local farmers market is also planned for the neighborhood. Green space, trails and a park are also in the long-term plans for the new training farm, which is located east of downtown Kansas City, Kan. Though the New Roots for Refugees program began as a community garden in 2005 with the help of Kansas City Community Gardens, the space used for growing produce was quickly outgrown.

This year, the program was given land for farming use by the Kansas City, Kansas Housing Authority.

Each of the 17 refugee women participating in the program farm a quarteracre plot, with many of the plots being worked by two women together. Several community garden spots are open to anyone living in the neighborhood, said McDaniel. The project is funded by the Refugee Agricultural Partnership Program through the Department of Health and Human Services.

Farming is a natural fit for many of the refugee women, who have experience gardening or farming in their countries of origin.

“Many of the women have direct experience as gardeners and farmers, and the concept of a farmer selling goods at market is one that is within their cultural

framework,” said Katherine Kelly, executive director of the Kansas City Center for Urban Agriculture.

Building on this earlier experience, the refugee women learn about everything from the soil composition of their plot to how to market and sell produce. The program’s ultimate goal is for the refugees to eventually become self-sufficient.

“The goal is to have women graduating from this program, moving off the training farm to their own site with money in the bank,” said Kelly.

That land is then opened up for new refugees to move into the program.

But the women are not then left to sink or swim. An employee of KCCUA inspects each woman’s farm plot with her weekly, providing instruction and encouragement with the help of an interpreter.

Some of the refugee women live in the neighborhood and are able to walk to the training farm. For those who live farther away and have no means of transportation, Catholic Charities provides them with a shuttle several days a week.

The women come to the farm whenever they are able — to water, weed, mulch, and generally cultivate their vegetable plants. All of the produce is grown using organic methods.

“One of the women was here this morning before I got here at eight, and she will probably be here until at least eight this evening,” said Bonar.

The women have also received help from the Junior League of Wyandotte and Johnson Counties, which has provided grant funds to develop and purchase reference books for the refugee farmers and to purchase a truck to haul produce and supplies to market.

When produce is ripe, the women will pick it and ready it for sale at the Brookside Farmers Market in Kansas City, Mo. — or they will take it to parishioners at St. Pius X Parish in Mission as part of a farming subscription service.

For St. Pius X parishioner Kelly Harris-Zehr, the arrangement is a winwin.

Photos clockwise from left: ■ Batula Arbow does much of the day’s farm work with her son Ali on her back.

■ A refugee weeds her crop to ensure a healthy and bountiful harvest.

“The goal is to have women graduating from this program, moving off the training farm to their own site with money in the bank.”

he had been looking for a local farming subscription service, commonly referred to as a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) in order to get locally grown produce at a reasonable price. Given the chance to support refugee women in the process, Harris-Zehr thought it an ideal way to put her Catholic faith and values to work.

“I had been wanting to do a CSA anyway, for the benefit of buying local, organic food,” she said. “When this opportunity came along, I thought it would be a perfect setup.”

She was not alone. When a representative of the CSA was invited to speak at St. Pius X one weekend, interested parishioners were encouraged to sign up for the service following the Mass.

“To be honest, we were hoping to have at least eight families sign up for each of the eight farmers. We ended up with 16 families to fill each spot, with more families on the waiting list,” said Harris-Zehr.

■ Some of the crops are already harvested and awaiting transport to the farmers market.

■ Halima Durow takes a break from a hard day’s work to look over her plot of land.

The 16 families who subscribe to the service pay a set fee to a refugee farmer each week. In return, they receive a bag of produce from one woman’s farm — whatever is ripe that particular week.

Families are invited to come visit the farm and meet their farmer in person, as well as see how their food is grown.

“I’ve been wanting to do a CSA for the locally grown produce,” said Pius parishioner and subscriber Pamela McGary, “and it’s an added bonus to help people out.”

McGary has already taken her three children — Cadence, Andrea and Patrick — to the farm site so they could meet their farmer and see how the program worked.

Scholl said the partnership between the New Roots for Refugees program and St. Pius X is an ideal example of Gospel values at work.

“People in the parish participating in this program are becoming stakeholders — not only financially, but they are also helping the women interact with the culture,” said Scholl. “There is an element of solidarity in supporting refugees and seeking out Christ in others.”

NATON

10

BRIEFLY Volunteers say efforts in Haiti empower its citizens WASHINGTON (CNS) — With 345 Catholic churches from the United States and Canada adopting Haitian parishes through the Parish Twinning Program of the Americas, volunteers affirm that progress is slow in the communities they visit, but say they have noticed a steady rise in the spirits of the people they assist. Since Haiti has only approximately 260 parishes, several of those faith communities have more than one North American parish helping them, said Theresa Patterson, executive director of the Nashville, Tenn.based twinning program. The goal behind the twinning of these parishes is to provide Haitian Catholics with much needed money, educational facilities, industry, pastoral work and physical labor, she said. Though volunteers told Catholic News Service it’s sometimes frustrating to witness the dismal conditions in Haiti, they believe the help they are providing is empowering the citizens of the Caribbean nation.

CRS official urges Congress to respond to African food crisis WASHINGTON (CNS) — A Catholic Relief Services official urged Congress to reinforce recent supplemental funding with $1.6 billion in additional resources for food and security programs in Africa. Mounting global food and fuel prices have created grim circumstances for thousands of hungry families throughout Africa, said Sean Callahan, CRS executive vice president for overseas operations. Callahan recently returned from a trip to East Africa and testified July 16 before a subcommittee of the House Agriculture Committee. “I visited a feeding site run by the Ethiopian Catholic Church and the Missionaries of Charity in a largely Muslim area where, over the previous five weeks, 28 children had died of malnutrition,” he said. “The conditions there are already dire.” The United States contributes more total food aid than any other country, providing more than $1.78 billion in fiscal year 2007, which is about 58 percent of the total spent globally for food assistance, said April Demert Slayton, a spokeswoman for the Subcommittee on Specialty Crops, Rural Development and Foreign Agriculture.

AUGUST 1, 2008

Pro soccer player has new goal

By TOM DERMODY Catholic News Service PEORIA, Ill. (CNS) — Professional soccer player Chase Hilgenbrinck is changing fields to pursue greater goals.

On July 14 he announced his retirement from Major League Soccer’s New England Revolution team to begin studies in August for the priesthood as a seminarian of the Diocese of Peoria. He will study at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary in Emmitsburg, Md. “More than anything, I am excited to administer the sacraments and to be with people at the most important times of their lives, like baptism, marriage and death,” Hilgenbrinck, 26, told The Catholic Post, Peoria’s diocesan newspaper, the day after his decision became public.

The national media quickly got a kick out of this soccer-to-seminary story.

“It’s been amazing,” said Hilgenbrinck, who happily shares his story of faith not for personal recognition, but “to give glory to Christ.”

“I feel like God is blessing me, being able to witness to so many people,” said the athlete, a Bloomington native who began playing soccer at age 5.

A defender for his pro team, he honed his skills in grade school and high school before playing college soccer at Clemson University in South Carolina.

The Revolution was in first place when he left — fresh from a July 4 win over the Los Angeles Galaxy, which has world soccer celebrity David Beckham. But Hilgenbrinck is now content for the spotlight to shine elsewhere.

“I want to be a light for Christ,” he said. “It’s about him, not about me.”

Hilgenbrinck considered his decision for years, but God’s calling intensified while he was out of the country playing professional soc-

Wagner’s Mud-Jacking Co.

cer in Chile after graduating from Clemson in 2004.

“Being alone in another country, with a new culture and language, I did a lot of soul-searching,” he said.

Through prayer and frequent reception of the sacraments, he strengthened his personal relationship with Christ, and the fears

and barriers surrounding his decision began to melt away.

Late last summer, while still in Chile, he made his first contact with Father Brian Brownsey, Peoria’s diocesan vocations director. The application process was begun via e-mail, and preliminary testing was done last December when Hilgenbrinck came to the

United States. He began mingling with diocesan seminarians at various events.

And then Major League Soccer came calling.

Hilgenbrinck signed briefly with the Colorado Rapids but was cut because of salary-cap issues.

The day of his release, the acceptance letter to the Peoria seminarian program came from Bishop Daniel R. Jenky.

His agent, however, negotiated another MLS contract, this time with the New England team.

When Hilgenbrinck learned the contract had an option for him

to be released July 1 — about the time new seminarians needed to be in Peoria — he considered it yet another sign. As that contract expired, he told the team of his decision.

“We understand Chase’s decision to retire from soccer and pursue his mission of helping others and we support his desire to make this change in his life,” said Michael Burns, vice president of player personnel for the New England Revolution, in the team’s official announcement.

“Playing professional soccer has been my passion for a long time and I feel blessed to have successfully lived out this dream,” said Hilgenbrinck. “My passion now is to do the will of God, which is wanting only what he wants for me.

“Though I will miss the game of soccer, I know that I am moving on to something much greater.”

•

11

WORLD

THE LEAVEN

‘It’s not easy being green’ But it’s part of God’s plan, says pope

Church leaders hopeful over Zimbabwe power-sharing deal

CNS photo/L'Osservatore Romano, CPP

Pope Benedict XVI and two priests look out over a pond on the grounds of Kenthurst Study Centre in Kenthurst, Australia, in mid-July. He told young people at World Youth Day that concern for sustainable development, justice and peace, and care of the environment are of “vital importance for humanity.” one,” he said at the July 17 welcoming ceremony.

“The concerns for nonviolence, sustainable development, justice and peace, and care for our environment are of vital importance for humanity,” he said. “They cannot, however, be understood apart from a profound reflection upon the innate dignity of every human life from conception to natural death: a dignity conferred by God himself.”

The earth and all it holds was created to sustain human life, he said, but

neglect, greed and shortsightedness have led to the poisoning of air, water and soil and the destruction of the forests.

In a similar way, the pope said, people were created in God’s image and likeness and destined to seek truth, beauty and goodness.

But in the human environment, as in the rest of nature, there exists “a poison which threatens to corrode what is good, reshape who we are and distort the purpose for which we have been created,” he said.

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Withholding hydration ‘euthanasia by omission’ VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Withholding artificial nutrition and hydration from a patient in a persistent vegetative state amounts to “euthanasia by omission,” said the former president of the World Federation of Catholic Medical Associations. Dr. Gianluigi Gigli, a professor of neurology at the University of Udine, Italy, spoke to the Vatican newspaper, L’Osservatore Romano, July 23 about the case of an Italian woman who has been in a vegetative state for 16 years.

Eluana Englaro, 37, was injured in a car accident in 1992. Initially on a respirator for three months, she has been breathing on her own since then and opens her eyes in the morning and closes them at night. She shows no other signs of awareness. Her father, Beppino Englaro, has been waging an eight-year legal battle trying to convince a court to allow him to stop providing his daughter with food and water and let her die.

Milan’s civil Court of Appeals ruled July 9 that he could withhold nutrition and hydration. However, July 22 the Milan procurator general announced he was taking the court’s ruling to the Supreme Court, which could block removal of the feeding tubes for up to one year.

By CINDY WOODEN Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Visiting Australia in July gave Pope Benedict XVI an opportunity to develop further his creation morality, which he first explained in the northern Italian Alps a year ago.

While Pope John Paul II was the outdoorsman, Pope Benedict’s threeyear pontificate already is seen as the green papacy.

Accepting donations of solar panels and a reforestation project to offset the Vatican’s carbon footprint, the 81-year-old pope has shown his concern for the environment is concrete.

But his July 12-21 trip to Australia also gave him an opportunity to demonstrate that his concern is theologically based, part of a broad moral code and is perhaps the best way to convince young people that there is such a thing as natural law — that some actions are naturally always right or wrong.

Meeting priests in the Alps last year, the pope suggested that affirming young people’s sensitivity to environmental concerns was the first step in showing them that they really believe God created all things and that God’s plan for creation must be respected.

The next step, he said last year, was to explain that “we must not only care for the earth, but we must respect one another.”

“Only with absolute respect for this creature of God, this image of God which is man, only with respect for living together on this earth can we move forward,” the pope told the priests.

For Pope Benedict, the obligation to safeguard the environment flows from recognizing that God has a plan for creation as a whole and for all its components: air, water, mountains, forests, flora, fauna and — especially — human beings.

In Sydney for World Youth Day, the pope had an opportunity to explain to Catholic young people how it all fits together.

“God’s creation is good and it is

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CAPE TOWN, South Africa (CNS) — Church leaders expressed cautious hope over a deal signed by Zimbabwe’s President Robert Mugabe and opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai that lays the framework for negotiations aimed at forming a power-sharing government. “The immediate expectation is that it will bring an end to the violence,” said Father Frederick Chiromba, secretary-general of the Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops’ Conference, in a July 22 telephone interview from the capital, Harare. “Once peace has been established, meaningful dialogue can take place,” Father Chiromba said, noting that the “parties need to enter into dialogue in good faith” and to not revert to violence “if things don’t go their way.” Human rights groups said opposition supporters have been the targets of brutal state-sponsored violence since March, leaving more than 80 dead and 200,000 displaced.

CLASSIFIEDS

12 EMPLOYMENT Special Beginnings Early Learning Center - A private, Christian, preschool and child-care center, is seeking positive and energetic individuals to fill the following positions: lead teachers, assistant teachers, substitute staff members, food service staff, and part-time late afternoon staff. We offer a flexible schedule, competitive salary, benefits for full-time employees, and an excellent incentive package that rewards high work ethic. If you would like to work in a professional environment at a quality child-care center, then we would like to meet you. We are currently accepting applications in person from 7 a.m. - 6 p.m., Mon. - Fri., at: 10216 Pflumm, Lenexa; and at: 14169 S. Murlen, Olathe.

Fifth- and sixth-grade teacher Needed for St. Michael School, Axtell, for the 2008 - 09 school year. For information, contact Todd Leonard at (785) 336-2727.

Secretary - Holy Family Parish, Kansas City, Kan., is seeking a part-time church secretary. Hours are from 9 a.m. to noon, Mon. Fri. Must have computer experience with Microsoft Excel, Word, and Publisher, and good communication and organizational skills. Tentative date of employment is Aug.18. Interested candidates should contact the church office at (913) 371-1561, or send resume via e-mail to: holyfamily1925@sbc global.net.

Accounting clerk - Must be proficient in Excel, MS Great Plains. Full-time position in a great atmosphere. Great opportunity with a growing company. Salary, bonus, benefits, plus 401(k). Send resume via e-mail to: HR@ cobraguard.net. EOE. Help desk/support - Customer-driven, friendly, service-oriented people needed.

Proficiency in MS applications; ability to assist Web users with demos, navigation of our Web application, and other support related issues.

Great opportunity with a growing company.

Salary, bonus, benefits, plus 401(k). Send resume via e-mail to: HR@cobraguard.net. EOE.

Program coordinator - St. Joseph Early Education Center, Shawnee, is seeking a full-time coordinator for the before- and afterschool care program. Must have KDHE approval for school-age children or equivalent.

Supervisory experience preferred. Candidate must have excellent organizational skills, love children and be dedicated to families. For information contact Nancy Wacker at (913) 631-0004.

Financial representative - Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding a financial representative in the Kansas City Metro and Topeka areas. This position is ideal for a determined, high-energy, high-expectation, professional, self-disciplined, independent individual desiring to serve others, yet earn a betterthan-average income. We provide top-rated financial products to our members and their families and will provide excellent benefits and training. For more information or an interview, contact John A. Mahon, 307 Dakota, Holton, KS 66436; or call (785) 364-5450.

Parish business manager - Visitation Parish, Kansas City, Mo., seeks a qualified individual to oversee or perform all parish financial, human resource, facilities management and administrative duties. Responsibilities include: financial planning and coordination of budget process; bookkeeping functions, cash flow management and financial reporting; management of payroll and benefit programs; supervision of office assistants, financial staff and maintenance staff; supervision of building cleaning, repair and renovation; and oversight of office technology. Qualifications include a bachelor’s degree plus 3 - 5 years experience in management; leadership, organizational and communication skills; proficiency in Microsoft Office; knowledge of Catholic parish organization; and the ability to work with parish leadership teams. Full-time position with flexible hours. To apply or for information, contact Father Patrick Rush at (816) 7535155, ext. 302, or send an e-mail to: frpat@church.visitation.org.

SERVICES

Custodian - Mother Teresa Parish, Topeka, is seeking a custodian. 30 hrs. per week, beginning Sept. 1. This position is responsible for custodial, janitorial, and maintenance issues for the parish. Occasional weekend cleaning and securing of building are required. For a complete job description, contact the church office at (785) 286-2188.

Mail resume to: Mother Teresa Church, Attn: Job Search, 2014 N.W. 46th St., Topeka, KS 66618. Interviews by appointment only.

Computer services - In-home computer repair by senior with 20-plus years experience. Senior discount. Call (816) 769-8020.

Spanish teacher - St. Agnes School, Roeland Park, is seeking to fill this part-time position for the 2008 - 09 school year. For information or to apply, contact Kim Hammers, principal, at (913) 262-1686 or send an email to her at: hammerskim@stagneskc.org.

Home cleaning - Reasonable rate; reliable service; references available. Cleaning houses for Leaven subscribers only for the past 12 years. Call Judy at (913) 709-8130.

Preschool director - St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood, is seeking a fulltime director to coordinate all administrative and educational components of our preschool program. The position requires a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or a bachelor’s degree with some hours in early childhood. Candidate must have prior teaching experience combined with some director level experience. See complete job description and contact information at: www. stmichaelcp.org.

Music director/organist position For St. Peters Parish, Kansas City, Mo. Approx. 25 hrs/week beginning in Sept.

Responsibilities include planning liturgical music, rehearsing choirs/cantors, planning and playing for weddings/funerals and other special celebrations. The applicant must possess an academic and pastoral knowledge and experience with Catholic liturgy and music. The applicant must be able to work effectively with a large, urban parish community and an active staff. St. Peter’s has a long history of exceptional liturgical music. The parish seeks an individual dedicated to continuing this tradition. Salary is based on the diocesan salary scale. For information, contact Father Joseph Sharbel, pastor, 815 E. Meyer Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64131; call (816) 363-2320; or send an e-mail to: jsharbel1@aol.com.

General housecleaning - KC metro area. Reliable service; reasonable rates; references available. Call (816) 795-8504.

Cleaning lady - Reliable; 25 years experience; Greater Kansas City metro area.

Please call Sandy at (913) 788-7676.

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

Quality piano instruction - Caring and positive teaching environment. Call Mrs. A. McGuire at (913) 338-3022.

Piano tuning - Touch-up and full chromatic piano tuning for residential and business clients in the KC metro area. Call Bob at (816) 510-3125.

Bankruptcy - When debt becomes overwhelming, seek professional help.

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

Caregiver - Middle-aged woman is seeking a live-in position providing assistance to older adult. Willing to maintain house, prepare meals, and run errands in exchange for rent. Can provide background check.

Experience working with seniors. Prefer Johnson County or nearby area. Call (913) 381-1166.

Need help caring for Mom or Dad? We provide in-home support with a variety of personal care and household functions to keep seniors safe and active at home. For as little as $50 per week, we can provide extra support for your loved ones, or help you get a “night off” from your daily caregiving responsibilities. Call Benefits of Home - Senior Care at (913) 422-1591.

Have you considered starting a donor advised fund or family foundation? The Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas can help. We help people with giving plans from trusts to gift annuities. If you are trying to stretch your philanthropy dollars further, contact the Catholic Foundation for ideas and guidance. For a confidential meeting, call (913) 647-0365 or visit the Web site at: www.cfnek.org.

Mountain Movers Inc. - Big or small, we move it all. Insured movers specializing in antiques. Call Dennis Higgins, owner, at (913) 285-3399.

Granite, Cambria and Silestone countertops - See our new showroom at 5820 Barton, in the heart of beautiful downtown Shawnee. Call The Top Shop, Inc., at (816) 898-8685 or (913) 962-5058.

Metro Johnson County only Custom-made overlay stained-glass windows or door-side window panels. Adds privacy, beauty and insulation. Call Ed at (913) 6480099. Reasonable.

Wedding decorations - Relax, I decorate for church, receptions, anniversaries and parties. Includes cleanup. Free consultation.

References. Greater KC area. Call Twila at Elegant Wedding Decor at (913) 724-1408.

Machine quilting - by Jenell Noeth, Basehor. Also, quilts made to order. Call (913) 724-1837.

HOME IMPROVEMENT Custom-kitchen countertops Laminate tops manufactured and installed within 5 days. Competitive prices, dependable work. St. Joseph Parish member. Call The Top Shop, Inc., at (816) 898-8685 or (913) 962-5058.

Get great savings now! We have reorganized to meet everyone’s needs. All contacts will be responded to. Mention this ad and receive 10% off any project or repair over $300. Great prices on all of your needs.

Roofing, fencing, siding, additions, kitchens, baths, basements, and all your construction or remodeling needs. Licensed, insured, experienced and quality minded. In-Land Construction Services (913) 393-3052.

Adept Home Improvements Where quality still counts!

Basement Finishing Kitchens and baths Electrical and Plumbing Licensed and insured (913) 599-7998 House painting - Interior and exterior; wallpaper removal. 20 years experience.

Reasonable rates. References. Call Joe at (913) 620-5776.

Does your car have dimmed, clouded-looking headlight lenses? We will come to your location and recondition your automobile headlight lenses for $57.

Call Zep at (816) 741-0999.

Masonry work - Quality, new or repair work. Brick, block, and chimney/ fireplace repair. Insured; second generation bricklayer.

Call (913) 829-4336.

Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation to the elderly and disabled in home, assisted living and nursing facilities.

We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 3412500 and speak with Andrea, Sara or Gary.

Tim the Handyman - Insured; free estimates. Carpentry: new and repair deck, doors, windows, siding, screens. Plumbing: faucet, garbage disposals, toilets. Electrical: switches, outlets, ceiling fans, light fixtures.

Light landscape: fill dirt, trimming, planting, garden tilling and mulching. Serving Johnson County. Call Tim at (913) 859-0471.

THE LEAVEN • AUGUST 1, 2008 FOLEY’S LAWN CARE * Mowing * Leaf Cleanups * * Bed Mulching * * Landscape Maintenance * www.foleyslawncare.com Serving Johnson County, Kansas (913) 825-4353 Electrician - Free estimates; reasonable rates. JoCo and southern KC metro area. Call Pat at (913) 963-9896.

EL SOL Y LA TIERRA * COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL * LAWN RENOVATION * MOWING * CLEAN-UP AND HAULING * DIRT GRADING/INSTALLATION * LANDSCAPE DESIGN * FREE ESTIMATES HABLAMOS Y ESCRIBIMOS INGLES!!

Call Lupe at (816) 252-3376.

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

Organizing & handyman services Basements, garages, attics and shop spaces organized! Your items sorted, boxed & labeled; areas cleaned when finished! Wall repair, interior painting, tile work, handicap bars and ramps. Great references and insured. For pictures of current projects, view my Web site at: www.swalms.com. Call Tillar Swalm at (913) 375-9115.

Lawn and landscape work - College student looking for landscaping and mowing work. Four years’ experience. Will do trees, mulching, deck refurbishment and landscape design and install. Johnson County. Call Josh at (913) 709-7230.

FOR RENT Room for rent - Private room and bath in beautiful Overland Park condo. Kitchen privileges; community pool; utilities paid; on the Jo bus route. Near 75th and Nall. Call (913) 362- 7159.

Virtual office in Lenexa - Enjoy the benefits of having a high-profile business office at a fraction of the cost! The following is provided: business mailing address; mail handling; access to copy machine at $0.5/copy; access to postage; a receptionist to meet your clients; use of furnished office space; free use of conference room (must be scheduled); and beverage service. All for $135/month, plus security deposit. Located at 8889 Bourgade, Lenexa KS 66219. For information, call Deanna Montgomery at (913) 438-4636.

REAL ESTATE Leawood/OP - Deer Creek Villas.

Beautiful 3 BR French country villa in Nativity Parish. Master BR suite on main flr. Large hearth room; screened-in porch w/ high rock walls for privacy. Appt. only; call (913) 6854726.

Lake house for sale - Beautiful and private Lake Kahola, less than 2 hours from the KC area. Only 10 miles off I-35 at the Emporia exit. This home sleeps 10+ with a 2car garage, plus a private boat ramp and dock. Located at the water’s edge on a quiet cove with great neighbors. Call Cy at (316) 262-0888.

Sugar Valley Lakes Resort - Mound City, Kan. Only 65 miles from Kansas City.

70 ft. furnished trailer with large covered deck. 12 by 12 wood shed. Beautiful 9-hole golf course, fishing, beach and pool. $25K. Call (913) 768-4663.

Tired of steps?- Overland Park ranch near Holy Cross Church. 3 BR, 2 BA combo LR/DR, eat-in kitchen, family rm. w/ fireplace, central air, attic fan, full basement, a 2-car garage and gutter shields. New price. Call (913) 839-8693. (classified ads continued on page 13)

AUGUST 1, 2008

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THE LEAVEN

(continued from page 12)

VACATION Bahamas beachfront condo Enjoy the crystal clear waters, beachfront pool or the beautiful sunrises from our newly remodeled condo that sleeps four. $125/night; $750/week. Local owner will rent to mature adults and families. Visit the Web site at: www.coralbeach1602.com, or send an e-mail to: coralbeach1602@gmail.com.

Lake of the Ozarks rental Osage Beach, million-dollar view, fully furnished; 2 BR, 2 BA; sleeps six. No smoking, no pets. For special rates, call Steve or Sheryl Roederer at (913) 2442022, or take a visual tour at: www.visualtour.com/shownp. asp?T=338261.

Summer vacation - Winter Park, Colo. 2 BR, 1 BA, sleeps 6. Fully furnished, fireplace, rec center w/pool, fishing, golf, hiking, rafting, close to nat’l park. $100/night; $600/week.

Call Joe Frederick at (913) 385-5589.

Mountain cabin – Winter Park, Colo. 2 BR, 1 BA. Mountain view, near all recreation areas. $95/night. Call (913) 642-3027. To view, visit the Web site at: cabin.forcadeassociates.com.

ROOMMATE Roommate wanted - 100% nonsmoker to share quiet, spacious duplex located near I - 29 and 64th St. in the Northland. Washer, dryer, DSL, satellite TV; $400/month, utilities paid. Call (816) 741-0999.

FOR SALE For sale – Mount Calvary garden mausoleum. Two crypts in deluxe companion section. Priced below current market value. Call (913) 299-8618.

F o r s a l e - Single lot in Mount Calvary Cemetery, Kansas City, Kan. Section 6 - H; lot 79; space 5. $1200.

Call Gloria at (417) 496-2747 or Ann Riley at (913) 927-2107.

WANTED TO BUY ***ANTIQUES WANTED*** Postcards, old photos, military items, trains, coins, watches jewelry, political buttons, signs, old toys and banks, Red Wing crocks, Indian rugs, sterling silverware.

Call Chris (913) 642-8269.

ENTERTAINMENT Disc jockey - For your wedding, kolos, nightclubs, corporate parties, teenage celebrations, holiday parties, sock-hops, ethnic, birthdays, holiday parties, hip-hop/rap, golden oldies.

Member of St. Therese Parish, KCMO. Call Zepster’s A to Z Party DJ’s at (816) 741-4777.

To purchase a Leaven classified ad, send an e-mail to: jennifer@the leaven.com, or call (913) 647-0327. The cost is $14 per column inch, five lines or less.

Each additional line is $1.50. A line consists of approximately 30 characters. Classified ads can be posted online at The Leaven’s Web site for an additional $5 per week.

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CALENDAR Meetings The Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women will host its quarterly meeting from 1 - 3 p.m. on Aug. 9 at Sacred Heart Church, 1042 S. 14th St., Sabetha. For information, call Sharon Roberts at (913) 768-1494, or send an email to her at: strebor7@swbell.net.

S.K.I.P. (Special Kids, Informed Parents) is a parent group to support, educate, and advocate for families who are living with a disabled or special needs child.

The next monthly meeting will be held on Aug. 25 at 7 p.m. in the community room of the library in Seneca. For information, call (785) 336-3917, or send an e-mail to: skip news4u@yahoo.com.

Miscellaneous The Singles of Nativity will gather for round-robin-style tennis at 3:30 p.m. on Sundays throughout the summer at the Indian Creek Recreational Center, 103rd St. and Marty, Overland Park.

Everyone is invited, even if you do not play tennis. For information, send an e-mail to Jane Zaccardi at: service@son-ministry.org.

The CYO of St. Patrick Parish, Kansas City, Kan., will host its annual golf tournament on Aug. 8 at Sunflower Hills Golf Course, Kansas City, Kan. The cost is $75 per golfer; $300 per team of four. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For information, contact Bryan Barnhart at (913) 238-2143.

Church of the Nativity, Leawood, will host its annual golf tournament, organized by the Nativity Knights of Columbus and hosted by Michael Hagen of Prudential Realty, on Aug. 11 at Leawood South Country Club. Both men and women are welcome to play. The cost is $150 per player.

Shotgun start is at 8:30 a.m., followed by lunch, donated by Fiorella’s Jack Stack Barbecue. Flight winners will be treated to a special luncheon with Archbishop Naumann at Yia Yia’s, donated by PB& J Restaurants. All proceeds will be donated to the Camp Tekakwitha scholarship fund at Prairie Star Ranch. To sign up or to sponsor a hole, send an e-mail to Tom Becker at: Tbecker9@ kc.rr.com. For information, visit the Knights’ Web site at: www.knightsofnativity.com.

Assumption Parish, Edgerton, will celebrate its 150th anniversary on Aug. 16. For information, contact Jean Norris at (913) 893-6630 or (913) 638-9032.

The Immaculata booster club will host its annual steak dinner from 5:30 8 p.m. on Aug. 23 at the Knights of C o l u m b u s H a l l , 205 S. 4th St., Leavenworth. Proceeds will be used to purchase new scoreboards. Tickets cost $20; seating is limited. Purchase tickets by Aug. 15 from Immaculata High School, LCS Administration Office, Towne Pub or the Knights of Columbus. For information, call Lisa Leintz at (913) 683-3934 or Shelly Cannon at (913) 909-0276.

Religious events Mater Dei-Assumption Church, 8th and Jackson, Topeka, will celebrate the enthronement of the Divine Mercy image with Benediction and a Holy Hour at 3 p.m. on Aug. 10. A reception will follow. For information, call (785) 246-1338 or (785) 2718010.

A memorial liturgy for deceased loved ones will be held at 8 a.m. on Aug. 16 at Curé of Ars Church, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood. The bereavement ministry will have its monthly meeting following Mass in the Father Burak Room. The topic will be: “What to Expect When Grieving.” For information, call (913) 649-2026.

The archdiocesan education office and Perfect Wings will sponsor a eucharistic celebration for children with special needs and their families at 10 a.m. on Aug. 23 in the chapel at S a v i o r Pastoral Center, 12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kan. Archbishop Joseph Naumann will preside. A reception will follow the celebration. For information or to RSVP, call (913) 721-1570.

St. Patrick Parish, 94th and State Ave., Kansas City, Kan., will host a sixpart weekly Bible study on the Scriptures of St. Paul from 7 - 8 p.m. on Sundays beginning Aug. 24. All are invited to attend.

The cost of $8 includes a discussion guide.

For information or to register, call (913) 299-3370.

Retreats Marillac Center, the retreat center of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth, located at 4200 S. 4th St., Leavenworth, will offer a seminar, entitled “Living in Full Swing,” from 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. on Aug. 5. The seminar is open to anyone interested in self-improvement, but it is especially targeted for registered nurses, other allied health personnel, and people in service-oriented professions. The course is approved for six contact hour credits, applicable for nursing relicensure. The fee of $40 includes lunch and a copy of the book “Living in Full Swing” by Cathy Newton.

For information or to register, call (913) 758-6552, or visit the Web sits at: www.MarillacCenter.org.

Sister Suzanne Fitzmaurice, OSB, will present “Stop in the Name of Love,” a retreat for young adults, from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Aug. 16 at the Sophia Center, 751 S. 8th St., Atchison. The cost is $50. For information or to register, call (913) 360-6173.

Savior Pastoral Center, 12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kan., will host a men’s Ignatian retreat weekend from Sept. 11 - 14. The theme will be “The Importance of Gratitude in Our Spiritual Life.”

The retreat leader will be Reverend Robert Costello, SJ, who is a former teacher at Rockhurst University and currently on staff at St. Louis University. The cost of $150 includes a private room, all meals and refreshments, and a good will offering. Financial assistance may be available. Reservations are being accepted through Aug. 29. For information or to register, call (913) 721-1097.

Social Mark you calendar for the 2008 city-wide Christian singles picnic and dance to be held from 3 - 9 p.m. on Aug. 2 at Quivira Park, 119th and Quivira, Overland Park. The cost of $10 includes hamburgers, hotdogs, drinks and the DJ. Please bring a lawn chair and a side dish to share. Children are welcome and volunteers are needed. For information, send an e-mail to: pamonroe10@ aol.com, or call (816) 229-2805.

Holy Name Parish, 1007 Southwest Blvd., Kansas City, Kan., will host its annual ice cream social from 5 - 10 p.m. on Aug. 2 and from 5 - 9:30 p.m. on Aug. 3. There will be authentic Mexican food, a raffle, bingo, games, live music and more.

The Ladies Guild at St. Joseph Parish, 5901 Flint, Shawnee, will host a French pastry tea from 1 - 3 p.m. on Aug. 3 in the church basement. All proceeds will benefit the Matiri, Kenya Goat Project. Tickets cost $15. Reservations are limited. For information, contact Nancy Wrigley at (913) 268-7989.

St. Casimir Church, 719 Pennsylvania, Leavenworth, will hold its annual roast beef dinner from noon - 3:30 p.m. on Aug. 3.The cost is $8 for adults; $4 for children ages 12 and under. Carryouts available.

Join the Singles of Nativity for happy hour, beginning at 5:30 p.m., on Aug. 8 at Manhattan’s, 13607 Washington St., Kansas City, Mo. Look for the yellow balloon. Questions? Send an e-mail to: social@ son-ministry.org.

The Shawnee Knights of Columbus, Council No. 2332, will host a polka dance on Aug. 9 at 11221 Johnson Dr. The doors open at 6:30 p.m.; music by the Brian McCarty Combo will begin at 7:30 p.m. The cost of $10 includes sauerkraut and sausage sandwiches and beverages served at 9 p.m.

For information, call Dan Nicks at (913) 6314633.

The T o p e k a C a t h o l i c S i n g l e s Fellowship will host its annual picnic from 5:30 - 10:30 p.m. on Aug. 9 at Synder’s Cabin in Gage Park.

St. Stanislaus, Rossville, will serve a pork tenderloin dinner with all the trimmings from 4 - 7 p.m. on Aug. 9 in Dekat Hall. The cost is $7 for adults; $3.50 for children 12 and under. There will be a cakewalk, a raffle, a silent auction and bingo.

All graduates of East Scipio Grade School from St. Boniface Parish, Scipio, are invited to a reunion on Aug. 13 at noon in the hall at S t . J o h n Church, Greeley. The cost of $10 includes dinner. RSVP to Dorothy Lickteig at (785) 867-2966, or mail a check to: Box 217, Greeley, KS 66033.

St. John the Baptist (the Croatian parish on Strawberry Hill), 708 N. 4th St., Kansas City, Kan., invites everyone to its annual festival on Aug. 16 from 5 - 9 p.m.

Traditional sarma dinners will be served, along with other food, treats, games and more. An outdoor dance will follow from 9 11 p.m.

Immaculate Conception Parish will host its annual picnic and reunion on Aug. 17 in the Centennial Building in St. Marys. A chicken dinner will be served from 4 - 7 p.m. The cost is $7 for adults; $3 for children under 12. There will be games, bingo, a silent auction, and a raffle.

St. Joseph Parish, Lillis, will host its annual parish picnic on Aug. 17. A beef and ham dinner will be served from 4:30 - 7:30 p.m. The cost is $7 for adults; $4 for children ages 5 - 11. There will be games for all and a raffle at 8:30 p.m.

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

A loss support group for anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one will meet from 3:30 - 5 p.m. on Aug. 5 and the first Tuesday of each month at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 621-8749, or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org.

A weekly support group for moms who are experiencing emotional difficulty with pregnancy or the birth of a new baby will be held from 9:30 - 11 a.m. on Thursdays at the Keeler Women’s Center, a ministry of the Benedictine Sisters, located at 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information, call (913) 906-8990, or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org.

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COMMENTARY

THE LEAVEN • AUGUST 1, 2008

MARK MY WORDS President MOST REVEREND JOSEPH F. NAUMANN Editor REVEREND MARK GOLDASICH, STL frmark@theleaven.com Associate Editor ANITA McSORLEY anita@theleaven.com

Advertising Representative JENNIFER SIEBES jennifer@theleaven.com

Senior Reporter JOE BOLLIG joe@theleaven.com

Reporter KARA HANSEN kara@theleaven.com

Production Manager TODD HABIGER todd@theleaven.com

Intern Seán T.D. Kane

Catholic Press Association Award Winner 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 Archbishop Edward O’Meara Award Winner 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2001, 2002, 2003 Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799) Published weekly September through May, excepting the Friday the week after Thanksgiving, and the Friday after Christmas; biweekly June through August. Address communications to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Phone: (913) 721-1570; fax: (913) 721-5276; or e-mail at: sub@theleaven.com.

POSTMASTER : Send address changes to The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. For change of address, provide old and new address and parish. Subscriptions $18/ year. Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.

SCRIPTURE

READINGS EIGHTEENTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Aug. 3 EIGHTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Is 55: 1-3; Ps 145: 8-9, 15-18; Rom 8: 35, 37-39; Mt 14: 13-21 Aug. 4 John Mary Vianney, priest Jer 28: 1-17; Ps 119: 29, 43, 79-80, 95, 102; Mt 24: 22-36 Aug. 5 Dedication of the Basilica of Saint Mary in Rome Jer 30: 1-2, 12-15, 18-22; Ps 102: 16-23, 29; Mt 14: 22-36 Aug. 6 THE TRANSFIGURATION OF THE LORD Dn 7: 9-10, 13-14; Ps 97: 1-2, 5-6, 9; 2 Pt 1: 16-19; Mt 17: 1-9

I hope this will make you smile acation Bible School just ended at my parish and, to be honest with you, I couldn’t be happier.

The week made me a nervous wreck.

It all started early Monday morning when I arrived at the parish center to set up for Mass. I was shocked at what had been done overnight to the space. I’d left things on Sunday looking normal. Now, just a few hours later, the place looked just like a jungle! There were clown fish, lions, snakes, and monkeys everywhere — some were even sporting straw hats. It gave me the willies.

I hurriedly moved around a partition to the altar area; at least that space had been left untouched. As I set out items for Mass, I had an uncomfortable feeling that I was being watched. Slowly I looked around and there, in the celebrant’s chair, sat an alligator. Even worse, he had a little pink monkey in his jaws. With no regard for personal safety, I immediately went to the monkey’s aid. As I picked up the alligator, the monkey feel free and, as he hit the floor, began to “cheep” loudly. My heart could hardly stand it. I escorted both the creatures around the partition to their rightful place in the rain forest.

And that’s when I heard them.

Birds. Chirping.

I ducked down expecting to be divebombed at any moment. I suspected that someone had accidentally let in one or more of the barn swallows that love to swoop outside in the parish

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Aug. 7 Sixtus II, pope, martyr, and his companions, martyrs; Cajetan, priest Jer 31: 31-34; Ps 51: 12-15, 18-19; Mt 16: 13-23

NINETEENTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Aug. 10 NINETEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME 1 Kgs 19: 9a, 11-13a; Ps 85: 9-14; Rom 9: 1-5; Mt 14: 22-33 Aug. 11 Clare, virgin Ez 1: 2-5, 24-28c; Ps 148: 1-2, 11-14; Mt 17: 22-27 Aug. 12 Jane Frances de Chantal, religious Ez 2:8 - 3:4; Ps 119: 14, 24, 72, 103, 111, 131; Mt 18: 1-5, 10, 12-14 Aug. 13 Pontian, pope, martyr; Hippolytus, priest, martyr Ez 9: 1-7; 10: 18-22; Ps 113: 1-6; Mt 18: 15-20 Aug. 14 Maximilian Mary Kolbe, priest, martyr Ez 12: 1-12; Ps 78: 56-59, 61-62; Mt 18:21 - 19:1 Aug. 15 THE ASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN Rv 11: 19a; 12: 1-6a, 10ab; Ps 45: 10-12, 16; 1 Cor 15: 20-27; Lk 1: 39-56 Aug. 16 Stephen of Hungary Ez 18: 1-10, 13b, 30-32; Ps 51: 12-15, 18-19; Mt 19: 13-15

and war, home foreclosures, violence in our streets, severe weather — there’s no shortage of serious concerns around. National Smile Week can remind us — as does our faith — that there’s more to our lives. While problems are real, so too is our belief in the only One who can give us the strength and courage to deal with them.

Smiling can be a small, visible sign of faith: a testament to the Light in an often dark and gloomy world. As people entrusted with the Gospel, the good news, our task is to not let the world forget hope.

Honestly, though, we may need to start with ourselves. Each morning this week, as you look at yourself in the mirror, do so, not with a sense of horror, but with a big smile. And rather than starting the day reading the front page of the paper, head to the comics section instead. Carry a small tablet with you to write down things that make you smile as you go through your day: acts of kindness that people do for you, funny situations you encounter, humorous quotes you come across.

If you still need convincing about the advantages of a smile, ponder these reasons suggested by the Web site www.smileycollector.com: • It’s less work than frowning.

• It’s free, legal and nonfattening.

• It gives your mouth something to do when you’re not eating or talking.

• It shows off all of that expensive dental work.

• It helps you look like the “after” picture rather than the “before” picture.

Best of all, a smile is contagious.

National Smile Week says it’s time to unleash this epidemic on the world.

THE GOSPEL TRUTH

Scholars dissect details of loaves and fishes

Aug. 8 Dominic, priest Na 2: 1, 3; 3: 1-3, 6-7; (Ps) Dt 32: 35c-36b, 39, 41; Mt 16: 24-28 Aug. 9 Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, virgin, martyr Hb 1:12 - 2:4; Ps 9: 8-13; Mt 17: 14-20

center portico. I looked up to the ceiling, but didn’t see any movement.

The chirping grew more insistent.

An idea struck me: You idiot. It’s probably a CD of jungle sounds for Bible school, to lend realism to the rain forest theme. I craned my neck to listen carefully under one of the center’s speakers. Nope, FATHER the sound wasn’t comMARK from there.

GOLDASICH ingEventually, I made my way to the hallway, where two large cages were sitting. Inside were live, bona fide, noisy parakeets. I retreated to the safety and quiet of the sacristy to put on my vestments for Mass. As I reached for the green chasuble, something brushed my hand. I jumped back when I realized a cobra was nesting on the hanger.

As last week unfolded, I was “surprised” each morning with a visit from some wild animal and serenaded by those parakeets. (Did I mention how noisy they were?) I couldn’t help but smile at these unusual beginnings to each day.

And, from what I’ve heard, there were smiles all around during Bible school. The kids had a great time, and parents, teachers, and volunteers were smiling at a job well done.

Smiling. That’s not a bad way to start a day. In fact, it’s an excellent way. But all too often we forget the power of a smile. Perhaps that’s why there’s National Smile Week in August.

This coming Monday kicks it off.

Is it just me or does it seem like smiles are in short supply these days?

High gas and food prices, terrorism

EIGHTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Mt 14:13-21 can vividly remember the day that John F. Kennedy was shot — Nov. 22, 1963. Certain distinct details stand out: the nun making the announcement to our 6thgrade class; the students starting to cry; our prayers that the president might live; the gray, overcast sky.

Whenever some significant event takes place, we often remember exactly where we were and what we were doing. We remember details that otherwise might appear unimportant.

That may help to explain some bits of Sunday’s Gospel reading, Mt 14:1321. It recounts a significant miracle: the multiplication of the loaves and the fish. Jesus takes five loaves of bread and two fish and feeds a vast crowd of more than five thousand.

Why does the story specify that there were five loaves and two fish?

Why does it report the information about the number of loaves and fish? If the story had been content to merely

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state that there were several loaves of bread and a few fish, would not it have made much the same impact?

It is possible that the story mentions these apparently unimportant details because they were part of the total package. Those present at the miracle remembered it vividly.

FATHER After all, it was an MIKE impressive event.

STUBBS Their memory of the event included those details, which had no special significance in themselves.

Or did they? Some commentators claim that the details of the number of loaves and fish hold symbolic meaning. After all, that often appears to be the case in Scripture. The number seven means fullness or completion. The number forty means a period of transition.

In this particular instance, the five loaves of bread would stand for the five books of the Law of Moses, the Pentateuch. Similarly, the two fish would stand for the two tablets on which were written the ten commandments that Moses brought down from Mount Sinai. In mentioning the num-

ber five and two, the story would have been making a connection between Jesus’ miracle and Moses, or at least the commentators so claim.

But why? There does not appear to be any relationship between the two, other than the number. So, it may be a coincidence. By supposing a symbolic meaning to the numbers, we may be reading too much into the story.

There is a third possibility to explain why the story includes the detail about the number of loaves and fish. Perhaps that detail was inserted to make the story more concrete, to add to its realism. By mentioning the number of loaves and fish, the story enables us to visualize them more readily, than if it had described them by an indeterminate number. It makes the story more interesting.

You might ask: Why pay this much attention to the details? Some do not mean that much. On the other hand, some details do matter a lot. It is important to know the difference between the two. Only then can we properly judge which details to focus on.

After all, the devil is in the details.

Father Stubbs is the pastor of St. Francis de Sales Parish, Lansing.

LOCAL NEWS

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THE LEAVEN • AUGUST 1, 2008

Sister Andrea, an interpreter for the Croatia trip, walks and sings through a garden on a rainy June morning.

Video helps provide orphanage with essentials Continued from page 1 matched the generosity of Novak, Wolf, and the others who made the video. Since 1993, when it was made, sales of the video have resulted in approximately $43,000 in donations to the orphanages.

The steady sales of the video testify not only to a desire to help the orphans, but also to the popularity of povitica.

Povitica is a dessert bread containing swirled, sweet layers of filling, traditionally composed of walnuts, cinnamon, honey, and other delectable ingredients. Immigrants from Croatia brought the recipe to Kansas City, Kan., just before the beginning of the 20th century. For many Croatian families, no special occasion would be complete without a plump loaf of the bread that made the ethnic Strawberry Hill neighborhood famous.

Emily Novak learned to make povitica the same way she learned to speak Croatian — from her family, as she grew up.

The recipe was more art than science, however.

“When my mother and grandmother made povitica, they did a little of this and a little of that,” she said. “They didn’t have a scale, or measure and weigh, or anything like that.”

When it came to recreating the traditional recipe, Emily had to experiment until she pro-

• If you want to learn more about St. Theresa’s Orphanage, go to www.sttheresasorphanage.org.

• To order a povitica DVD or for more information on St. Joseph Orphanage in Croatia, call Don Wolf at (913) 7887649, or send him an e-mail at: Wolf1936@sbcglobal.net.

Emily Novak and Sister Victoria pose with a baby being adopted that day. duced something that agreed with her taste buds and memories. Judging by the sales of the videos, she got the recipe just right.

She might have never seen the impact of those povitica videos had not her son Charles Novak urged her to visit Croatia.

He especially wanted her to see Gerovo, the village where their ancestors came from, and the two orphanages his mother had helped.

“I went [to Croatia] last year on my own, because I wanted to see where my grandparents came from,” said Charles. “And so this year, I wanted to go back with Mom because I met up with relatives we’ve been in contact with in the past by mail.”

The visits to the two orphanages were certainly among the highlights of Emily’s visit. Since she spoke Croatian, she was able to interact a bit with both the children and the nuns, who are Discalced Carmelites.

“The nuns knew that my mom had helped Don Wolf in his efforts to raise money for them,” said Charles.

“They were very warm [to my mom],” he added. “They’d talk about just everything.”

“When they came to dinner, Emily would sit and not eat because she was talking to the nuns,” added Al Janes, a member of Holy Family Parish in Kansas City, Kan. “We’d be done eating, and she’d have half her food on her plate!”

The nuns complimented Emily on her Croatian, although some of them took the opportunity to try out their English on the Americans.

Emily was particularly impressed by the joy the nuns found in their care of the orphans, despite the paucity of resources and the difficult living conditions.

“It was very heartwarming to see the Sisters at their work, and how happy they were in what they were doing,” said Emily.

“That to me is very important.

“Anything else we could do to help them financially would be something they would be forever grateful for, because when they started out they didn’t have hardly anything.”

If the Sisters welcomed her with open arms, Emily found herself to be an even bigger hit with the kids.

“The kids just gravitated to her,” said Al. Charles agreed.

“She was like a little, grandmotherly figure [to them],” he confirmed.

St. Theresa’s Orphanage — for children under nine — is in relatively good shape now, although it still has issues. Funds raised with the povitica videos have provided a new roof, flooring, and plumbing, as well as washers and dryers.

St. Joseph Orphanage, on the other hand, which is for children ages nine to 19, is in terrible shape. The building, which was a cowshed before it became an orphanage in 1917, has mold and fungus problems. The children get water from a neighboring house by forming a bucket brigade.

Neither of the orphanages could exist, much less make improvements, without outside help. The government of Croatia offers more help to state-sponsored entities than to those run by churches.

“I’m continually begging for funds,” admitted Don, who has initiated many fundraising efforts for the orphanages in the past.

Fortunately, the povimaking videos have struck a sweet spot with those addicted to the taste of Old Croatia, and funds from those video sales are building a future for the youth of a New Croatia.

Any way you slice it, it doesn’t get much sweeter than that.