08 13 21 Vol. 43 No. 4 by The Leaven

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 43, NO. 4 | AUGUST 13, 2021

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

Sister Sentinelle, PJC, hands a cantaloupe to Keith Winterhalter, a parishioner of St. Joseph in Shawnee, from the back of a pickup. The Sisters of the Fraternity the Poor of Jesus Christ have been selling produce and flowers at churches to support the order’s special needs fund, which helps mission houses in 16 countries throughout the world.

Feeding the hungry, one cantaloupe at a time By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

AMEGO — This s u m m e r, m e m bers of the Fraternity the Poor of Jesus Christ are arriving at churches around the Kansas City metro in style. Their bright red pickup piled high with colorful flowers and fresh produce makes for an eye-catching combination. And the cause the items are being sold for is even more beautiful: the order’s special needs fund, which helps mission houses in 16 countries throughout the world, including the United States. “Funds from that account are for urgent needs of our missions, wherever they may be, especially our poorest missions in the world,” said fraternity member Sister Magdalena of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, PJC, who raised and harvested the bounty herself. Many of those missions take to the streets to serve the homeless in some of the poorest areas of the world. The special funds have also been used to purchase machines and materials for new mission houses so the missions can create and sell items

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

Sister Miracles rolls into the parking lot of St. Joseph Church in Shawnee with a truck filled with cantaloupes, watermelons and flowers to sell. like arts and crafts, rosaries and liturgical vestments. By doing so, the houses are able to remain self-sufficient. The account has additionally helped build or repair the order’s Houses of Recuperation for those suffering from alcohol or drug addictions. Catholics in the archdiocese have been eager to help the cause — especially when what they receive in return is a sweet treat. The fraternity’s cantaloupes and watermelons will be up

for sale one final weekend, Aug. 14-15, at St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood. Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish in Overland Park is also selling the produce on Mondays and Fridays until the fraternity runs out — likely in mid-August. The idea to sell produce to help the special needs fund originated about three years ago, said Sister Magdalena. “I had lived for a while at my friend’s farm, Maria Kientz, before I entered reli-

gious life,” she said. “And she and her late husband used to plant a lot of melons, sweet potatoes and other things. “Her husband passed away a few years ago, and Maria has been renting the land to a local farmer.” Sister Magdalena asked Kientz to borrow a slice of land and equipment for the project, and Kientz not only agreed but has also helped raise the crops. Sister Magdalena has received some added help from her nephew.

Together, they’ve laid plastic mulch, planted seedlings, hoed weeds and harvested the fruits. Six Sisters and four friars have been involved with the project on the weekends, picking up the harvest and selling it at churches in the Kansas City metro after Mass. For Sister Magdalena, working with the land has been a joy. “This experience has been very rewarding,” she said, “especially when we see how the funds we [raise] have been able to help our missions throughout the world in so many ways.” By the beginning of August, the order had raised $3,000 — just enough to cover the project’s expenses, said Sister Magdalena. The remainder of the money raised will go toward the special needs fund, she said, “to help our missions throughout the world, to help us provide for the poor who we serve and to build God’s kingdom.” To donate to the fund, visit the website at: poorofjesus christspecialfunds.com or mail a check to Sister Magdalena at: 40691 Hwy K99, Wamego, KS 66547. To learn more about the fraternity, go online to: sisters poorofjesuschrist.com.

LOCAL NEWS

AUGUST 13, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Father ‘Giani’ receives grateful send-off from archdiocese By Ellie Melero Special to The Leaven

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE BOLLIG

Father Gianantonio Baggio, CS, outgoing director of Hispanic ministry for the archdiocese, chats with Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann (left) and Father Peter Jaramillo (right), SSA, during a farewell reception on July 28 at Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kansas.

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ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Father Gianantonio “Giani” Baggio, CS, left the archdiocese at the end of July, but the impact he made during his almost seven years as the director of the office of Hispanic ministry will be felt for years to come. Father Giani officially left the office July 31 after being reassigned by his religious order to priestly ministry outside the archdiocese. He had worked as the director of Hispanic ministry since September 2014. Under his leadership, the Hispanic community in the archdiocese has been able to grow and thrive. “I think he’s had a lot of impact in the Hispanic ministries,” said Brenda Aguilar, a leader within the Hispanic ministry at St. Paul Parish in Olathe. “The Hispanic community has grown throughout the years and his being fluent in Spanish, I think, makes it nicer and easier for the community to grow and to have that trust in him,” she added. “And he’s just always present in the Hispanic community.” Being present for the Hispanic community in the archdiocese was always important to Father Giani, because he believes giving people a space to practice their culture — particularly their religious culture — is a crucial part of bringing people closer to God. That’s why he dedicated so much of his efforts to making Hispanic ministry more accessible. When Father Giani arrived, few parishes had official Hispanic ministries and many did not have Spanish-speaking priests, even though — according to some estimates — 30% of the archdiocese is Hispanic, the second largest ethnic group in the archdiocese. Today, 13 parishes have thriving Hispanic ministries, bilingual priests who can say Mass in Spanish and even parish office employees who speak Spanish. Father Giani said he would like to see

FATHER GIANI HAS HAD A BIG IMPACT BECAUSE HE’S ALWAYS THINKING ABOUT US. HE’S BEEN A GOOD LEADER, AND I FEEL BLESSED TO HAVE KNOWN HIM. RONALD ORTEGA PARISHIONER OF ST. PAUL, OLATHE the number of parishes with Hispanic ministry continue to grow. One of Father Giani’s foremost goals was the hiring of more bilingual people in the chancery, where archdiocesan offices are housed, to give more members of the Hispanic community representation at the archdiocesan level.

Earlier this summer, that goal was met when Archbishop Joseph Naumann announced the creation of a vicar for Hispanic ministry. “That is one of the things that the office of Hispanic ministry was really pushing for and now it’s happening,” Father Giani said. Also among Father Giani’s accomplishments was leading the archdiocese through the V (Fifth) Encuentro, a nationwide effort of the American bishops to learn more about the Catholic Hispanic community in the United States. For four years, Father Giani led representatives from parish Hispanic ministries through workshops, conferences and door-to-door canvasing as they worked to discover more about the archdiocese’s Hispanic community and how it can be better served. Thanks to the work of those who helped with the V Encuentro, parishes were able to find ways to better meet the needs of their Hispanic members,

such as adding weekly Spanish Masses. Another tool that has helped Hispanic ministry grow is the Curso de Teología Básica (Basic Theology Course), a three-year program that trains leaders for Hispanic ministry within their parishes. The Curso started before Father Giani arrived in the archdiocese, but he has helped the course thrive and it, in turn, has reinvigorated Hispanic ministry at the parochial level. Ronald Ortega, a member of St. Paul Parish in Olathe who also assists with Hispanic ministry in Gardner, met Father Giani through the Curso de Teología Básica and said he learned a lot from the course. Ortega believes Father Giani has been a great leader for the Hispanic community because he was always there for them. “Father Giani has had a big impact because he’s always thinking about us,” Ortega said. “He’s been a good leader, and I feel blessed to have known him.” Being there for the Hispanic community was one of his favorite parts about being the director of Hispanic ministry, Father Giani said. He loved being with the people, especially for celebrations like the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The community loved him, too. Aguilar said she loved going to Mass with Father Giani because he had such powerful homilies that spoke to her. As he moves on to his next assignment, Father Giani said Hispanic ministry is in good hands with Father Michael Hermes as the new vicar for Hispanic ministry. Father Giani is grateful for the time he has had in the archdiocese and grateful God was able to work through him to help the Hispanic community here. He will not forget his time in Kansas City, and the Hispanic community certainly won’t forget him anytime soon. “It was a wonderful experience,” Father Giani said. “I learned a lot of things, a lot of important things, and I will treasure the experience for the future.”

LOCAL NEWS

AUGUST 13, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann blesses the congregation of Our Lady & St. Rose Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, following the installation of Msgr. Stuart Swetland (right) as pastor. Deacon Bill Scholl (left) will assist Msgr. Swetland at the parish.

Msgr. Stuart Swetland visits with parishioners at Our Lady & St. Rose following his installation as pastor. “God is good,” said Msgr. Swetland. “He’s asked me to be a pastor at one of the great parishes in our archdiocese with these wonderful people.”

College president ‘honored’ to pastor African-American parish By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — When Msgr. Stuart Swetland was installed as pastor of Our Lady & St. Rose Parish here on July 10, it was a celebration of life and hope and homecoming. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, the main celebrant and homilist, introduced the new pastor to the congregation with an invitation to parishioners to “show your welcome and approval.” When his request was met with enthusiastic applause, the archbishop joked: “I take that as approval.” While acknowledging the many duties he has as president of Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, Archbishop Naumann explained that Msgr. Swetland “has a love for this community and a desire, in addition to his other responsibilities, to be a shepherd for this community.” Msgr. Swetland sees the Lord working through the archbishop’s invitation to accept the assignment. “God is good,” said Msgr. Swetland. “He’s asked me to be a pastor at one of the great parishes in our archdiocese with these wonderful people. “I’m very honored that [God] has called me to this. And I hope I can serve these people the way that God would wish me to serve them.” Deacon Bill Scholl will be assisting Msgr. Swetland, while continuing as consultant for the archdiocesan office of social justice. “It’s been many years since the people of Our Lady and St. Rose have had a pastor who is just pastor of their parish,” he said. “We’re really optimistic and hopeful that some great things are going to happen.” In addition to welcoming a new pastor, this was the parish “Homecoming Mass” to celebrate being fully reunited after the pandemic. Mass began with a procession of parish members carrying candles decorated to represent their families and their experiences over the past two years.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD

Msgr. Stuart Swetland blesses the candles that were carried in at the beginning of his installation Mass. The candles represent parishioners’ families and their experiences over the past two years. “The candles seemed like something that everyone could make their own and personalize,” said parishioner Patricia Goering. “And so, they became a visible symbol of our whole parish family coming back together.” The candles were placed between

two photo displays used to share special events that happened during the pandemic and memories of loved ones lost. Because most parishioners here are Black, the displays were a solemn reminder of the racial disparities surfaced President Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann

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) 7215276; or email at: sub@theleaven.org. 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.

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by the pandemic. Indeed, when COVID-19 became the third leading cause of death in the United States, life expectancy dropped 1.87 years among white Americans. Among Black and Hispanic populations, however, it dropped by 3.25 and 3.88 years, respectively. Moreover, the pandemic revealed inequities in health care, unemployment and food insecurity which have always been part of the minority experience but were seen more clearly through the lens of the pandemic. “I think all of us as a nation have become very much aware of the needs of Black America,” said Deacon Scholl. “And I think this is a chance for the church to put a great deal of intentionality into it. “We’re already doing that with our meditation on ‘Open Wide Our Hearts,’ the U.S. bishops’ pastoral letter against racism.” The archbishop has taken it a step further by giving this parish a dedicated pastor. “I think it’s really a sign of how much Archbishop Naumann has a heart for the Black community,” said Deacon Scholl. In his homily, the archbishop talked about the importance of priests as an example to all of Christ’s love. “The life of the priest is, in part, a reminder that each of us has this special, unique mission that has been entrusted to us by God,” he said. “Each one of us has been called by name to bring the love of Jesus Christ to others. “The particular role of the priest is to help each member of his flock realize this special love of Jesus for them and discover the way Our Lord wants to use them to build up his kingdom in the world.” After Mass, a welcome celebration gave Msgr. Swetland and Deacon Scholl an opportunity to meet parishioners and discuss the future. “Today’s second reading,” noted Msgr. Swetland, “said that we’re all called to be holy and to give God praise and glory. “And that’s what we want to do here at Our Lady and St. Rose.” Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org

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

LOCAL NEWS

AUGUST 13, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Couples honored for critical help in Prairie Star’s infancy By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

ILLIAMSBURG — When Msgr. Tom Tank needed money to transform a former dude ranch here into a premiere Catholic youth camp, he installed some “spark plugs” to fire up the fundraising engine. He chose two sets: couples at his new parish. Those two couples, both members of the Church of Nativity Parish in Leawood, were honored at the Camp Tekakwitha closing Mass on July 30 at Prairie Star Ranch. Mike and Mary Ann Caffrey, and Robert and Elena Fallon, were conferred the Echo of Kateri Award for their service to youth ministry and Prairie Star Ranch. Also receiving the award was Father Barry Clayton, pastor of St. Philip Neri Parish in Osawatomie, Sacred Heart Parish in Mound City and Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in La Cygne. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, main celebrant and homilist for the Mass, presented the awards to the honorees. “[These two couples] worked with Archbishop James P. Keleher and Msgr. Tank in getting parents, grandparents and our adult community to understand the vision of Catholic camping,” said Deacon Dana Nearymyer. Holding events at Prairie Star Ranch to highlight what could be done with the property, the couples helped illustrate “why it was worth making commitments to make it flourish,” Deacon Nearmyer said. He and his wife Debbie are the founders and co-directors of Camp Tekakwitha. Not only was the original dude ranch infrastructure badly in need of refurbishing, but there was also a crying need to build housing both for campers and those who care for the property, landscaping and a dedicated chapel. And the Caffreys and Fallons were

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE BOLLIG

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann stands with the 2021 recipients of the Echo of Kateri Award on July 30 at Prairie Star Ranch in Williamsburg: (front, from left): Robert and Elena Fallon, and Mary Ann and Mike Caffrey; (back, from left) Father Barry Clayton and Archbishop Naumann. there to help — and they called upon many of their friends and fellow parishioners to help as well. “After one Saturday evening Mass at the new Church of the Nativity, Msgr. Thomas Tank introduced Mike and me to Bob and Elena Fallon,” said Mary Ann Caffrey. “We embarked on a joyful journey of friendship and fundraising.” The Caffreys and Fallons downplay their roles in the camp’s success, crediting instead Msgr. Tank. “We don’t deserve this [award],” said Elena Fallon. “We did a tiny, little bit. We’re grateful for the ranch and wish it tremendous success in the future. We just want people to know that there is such a place as this to send their children.”

Father Clayton has often come to the camp to minister since he was ordained 10 years ago, said Deacon Nearmyer. “Father Clayton has a great [ability] to connect the sometimes complicated truths of the Gospel in simple, understandable ways to the human heart,” said Deacon Nearmyer. “[He] is a master of this in his witness and preaching. He is a frequent celebrant and confessor at Prairie Star Ranch. We are so grateful for his zeal in proclaiming the freedom of the Gospel and for generosity in sacramental service to Camp Tekakwitha.” Actually, Father Clayton believes that being there is enough of an award. “It’s really a blessing,” said Father

Clayton. “Honestly, I have to say I get really inspired by coming here. I appreciate the accolades toward myself, but I really have to return them back to the camp because the camp is so inspiring.” “Whenever I come here,” he continued, “I’m inspired by the faith and discipleship and fun. It’s really a blessing for me to be here and help out at camp. I appreciate the award very much, but I have to give credit to the camp for being the wonderful place that it is.” When he was there, Archbishop Naumann also blessed the soon-to-be completed priests’ retreat house, the latest infrastructure addition to the camp. The structure will be dedicated when it is completed.

Mater Dei Parish in Topeka dedicates new hall By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

OPEKA — It was a long time coming, but downtown Topeka’s Mater Dei Parish now has a parish hall that is open and ready for busi-

ness. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann blessed the building on July 31 immediately following the 5 p.m. Mass. Afterward, an estimated 150 parishioners enjoyed a lasagna dinner provided by LaRocca’s, a restaurant owned by parishioners Ted and Cindi Valdivia. “It took a long time,” admitted parish pastor Father John Pilcher. But he’s happy with the outcome. “It’s got a nice atmosphere to it,” he said. “It’s a place we’ve needed for a long time.” The new structure sits next door to Holy Name Church, one of two churches in use by the parish which was formed in 2005 with the consolidation of Holy Name and Assumption parishes. Located at the intersection of 10th and Clay, Holy Name faces 10th St., a major thoroughfare leading in and out of downtown Topeka. Due to both the church’s visibility and its status as a

LEAVEN PHOTO BY MARC ANDERSON

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann blesses Mater Dei Church’s new parish hall on July 31 in Topeka. Joining him were Father John Pilcher (left), parish pastor, and Deacon Bob Ortiz of the parish. Deacon Jody Knight (far right) served as master of ceremonies. The 15,000-square-foot facility will have a seating capacity of 340. historic place, members of the project committee, including Dan Spindler, the committee’s chair, said continuity of design was of utmost importance. Their attention to that detail definitely didn’t go unnoticed.

“I just congratulate you on this accomplishment,” the archbishop said, just prior to blessing the facility. “I was telling Father Pilcher I love the way it matches the other buildings. It seems like it’s been part of this campus forever.”

Besides continuity of design, other considerations included accessibility as well as parking for people of all abilities. Some of the parish’s other event spaces are smaller in size and are located below ground. Additionally, the parish’s other church, Assumption, while extremely visible in its location right across the street from the Kansas Capitol, does not offer a lot of parking during the week due to its downtown Topeka location. The new 15,000-square-foot facility, complete with a commercial grade kitchen and enough seating capacity for up to 340 people, was completed in July 2020 at a cost of $1.8 million. Also, it has a zero grade, meaning there is no incline whatsoever to walk into it, making it accessible for anyone. Plus, its location allows for continued parking behind the church, beside it or across the street in Holy Family School’s parking lot. With the project complete, Father Pilcher said the entire parish is looking forward to its use both by the parish and the Topeka community at large. “It’s exciting to be able to open ourselves up. We want to be able to rent [the >> See “VENUE” on page 6

AUGUST 13, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Catholic girls play critical role in soccer upset

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

ICHMOND, Va. — The Kansas City Athletics U-15 girls soccer team was never expected to win the Elite Clubs National League (ECNL) national championship They weren’t even expected to make it to the final. So when they did, their opponent, the San Diego Surf from California, didn’t seem worried. “When we got to the field, they were playing music and laughing and taking it as a joke,” said Dory Latenser, a sophomore at Bishop Miege High School and parishioner at St. Agnes Parish, both in Roeland Park. “That got me pretty excited,” she said. “They thought it was going to be really easy.” But the Surf was wrong. On July 19, the team from Kansas City, led by head coach Vasil Ristov, came ready to fight. Tied 0-0 at halftime, KC Athletics gave up a goal early in the second half. But the girls never gave up, ultimately countering with two goals of their own to seal the win. “After the second goal, I couldn’t believe it,” said Anisten Cabantac, a freshman at St. Thomas Aquinas High School and a member of Holy Spirit Parish, both in Overland Park. Cabantac scored the first goal off a free kick that went untouched through the penalty box and slid past the Surf’s goalie. “Once Anisten scored the first goal, I think we really started to have more momentum,” said Avery Rasmussen, a freshman at St. James Academy in Lenexa and parishioner of Sacred Heart Parish in Shawnee. “That’s what really triggered the last goal and us fighting for the last 15 minutes,” she added. KC Athletics defied the odds throughout the national tournament, eventually earning their way to the quarterfinal game after making it out of the playoff round in Lakewood Ranch, Florida. They came back from behind during the quarterfinals and ended up tying World Class FC from New York in the semifinals, which forced a penalty kick shootout to decide the winner. “During the semifinals, I was praying so hard,” said Latenser. Leaning on faith during big games is nothing new for the girls. “I usually say a quick prayer before every game,” said Bella Haggerty, a sophomore at Blue Valley North High School in Overland Park and parishioner at St. Michael the Archangel in Leawood. “It just makes me feel better, and at times during the game, I definitely leaned on my faith.” In the end, the athletes believe what separated their team from the rest of the competition was attitude, heart and the community they’ve built since they all began playing together in 2018.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY ECNL GIRLS

Above, from left, Anisten Cabantac and Bella Smith look on as Mo Carnahan battles for a header. Left, The KC Athletics U-15 girls soccer team celebrates after writing their team’s name on the ECNL national championship bracket. The girls were considered underdogs in the tournament but came out on top.

PHOTO BY MEGHAN LATENSER

“We’re all very connected,” said Shelby Kindt, a sophomore at Mill Valley High School and parishioner at Sacred Heart Parish, both in Shawnee. “We are all really a family,” she added. “We support each other.” Kindt suffered an injury shortly before nationals but was able to watch a livestream of the final game, which she said was both frustrating and exciting. “When you’re on the sideline, you can cheer and support your team physically,” she said. “When you’re watching virtually and you can’t say anything, it’s very annoying because you know you can’t go in and help.”

But Kindt was amazed by her team’s performance and proud of their victory. That type of support is something Rasmussen said makes KC Athletics special. “We keep going and we push each other,” she said. “We all want the same thing so we’re all in it together.” Cabantac said the nationals experience made the girls even closer. “We were with each other pretty much every day over the summer,” she said. “We traveled all together. “We suffered hardships together, we went through good and bad moments together, and we won together.” Haggerty is a testament to the

adversity the team faced throughout nationals. “I was playing with an injury this entire tournament and physically I wasn’t 100 percent,” she said, “so at times, I felt really challenged. “But what got me through this time was having my teammates back there with me.” Haggerty said the team’s performance “doesn’t feel real.” “We worked so hard and went through many challenges this soccer season,” she said, “so we definitely deserve this. “I will remember this experience for the rest of my life.” The athletes will also relish the fact that they were the underdogs through it all. “That’s what I love about soccer,” said Kindt. “The numbers might add up against your favor, but you never know [the result] until you play the game.” Latenser said their success is evidence of that. “We went in being happy to be there,” she said, “and we came out on top.”

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LOCAL NEWS

Mel and Rita Lavery, members of Good Shepherd Parish, Shawnee, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 21. The couple was married on Aug. 21, 1971, at St. Joseph Church. The family will celebrate with a trip to the Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville, Tennessee. Their children are Brian Lavery and Matt Lavery. They also have seven grandchildren. Mary Jo (Dreher) and Len Mohlman, members of Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on Aug. 19. The couple was married on Aug. 19, 1961, at Assumption Parish, Topeka. Their children are: Mark Mohlman and Michael Mohlman, both of Overland Park. They also have seven grandchildren. Lillian (Cummins) and Robert H. Graham, members of Holy Tr i n i t y Parish, Lenexa, celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on Aug. 4. The couple was married on Aug. 4, 1956, at St. Patrick Church, Maryville, Missouri. Their children are: Carolyn Graham Leard, Sharon Graham Fallon and Thomas A. Graham. They also have seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Jeanne (Poss) and Ron Wolken, members of St. Pius X Parish, Mission, will celebrate their 50th we d d i n g a n n ive r sary on Aug. 18. The couple was married on Aug. 18, 1971, at St. Agnes Church, Roeland Park, by Msgr. Herman J. Koch. Their children are: Kim Wolken, Beth Stadel and Amy Morasch. They also have eight grandchildren. They are planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park next year. Sandy and Robert “Pete” Kaeding, members of St. Frances de Sales Parish, Lansing, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 14. The couple was married on Aug. 14, 1971, at Immaculate Conception Church, Leavenworth. Their children are: Clint Kaeding, McKinney, Texas; and Brock Kaeding, Lansing. They also have five grandchildren. Robert and Mary Jane Cohorst, members of Prince of Peace Parish, Olathe, will celebrate their 50th we d d i n g a n n ive r sary on Aug. 14. The couple was married on Aug. 14, 1971, at Annunciation Church, Frankfort. They have four children and six grandchildren.

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Anne and Frank DeCoursey, members of St. Ann Parish, Prairie Village, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on July 24 with a surprise open house. The couple was married on July 24, 1971, at Church of the Magdalen, Wichita. They also celebrated with their family in Hawaii in June. Their children are Dan and Molly.

Ron and Karen (Hoffman) Dodge, members of St. Aloysius Parish, Meriden, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 14. The couple was married on Aug. 14, 1971, at St. Benedict Church, Bendena, by Father Placidus Kieffer, OSB. Their children are: Jennifer Brockhoff and Michael Dodge. They also have three grandchildren.

Marilyn (Taylor) and John Wiber, members of St. Patrick Parish, Kansas C i t y , Kansas, will celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary on Aug. 17. The couple was married on Aug. 17, 1956, in Kansas City, Kansas. A family celebration is scheduled for later this year. Their children are: Michael S. Wiber and John P. Wiber. They also have six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Anna Marie (Haugh) and Robert J. Wagner, members of St. Pius X Parish, Mission, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on Aug. 22 at 8:30 a.m. Mass. The couple was married on Aug. 26, 1961, at Guardian Angels Parish, Kansas City, Missouri. Their children are: Dan Wagner, San Francisco; Gretchen Wagner, Kansas City, Missouri; and Paul Wagner, Lake Quivira. They also have three grandchildren.

Jim and Janice (Kohake) Steinlage, members of St. Paul Parish, Olathe, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 14. The couple was married on Aug. 14, 1971, at Sts. Peter and Paul Church, Seneca, by Father Leo Ortman, OSB. Their children are: Shane, Brian, Dana and Robyn. They also have 13 grandchildren.

ACROSS 1 A spinning toy (2 wds.) 5 Hissed 10 Fence opening 14 Biblical weed 15 Sporty car brand 16 Asian nation 17 Curse (KJV) 19 The __ is my shepherd 20 Be sick 21 Light emitting __ 23 Great ape 26 Statement of beliefs 28 Rotten 31 Tell a lie 32 Pasta 33 Noah’s __ 34 First 37 Steep 39 This is my __ given for you 40 Tableland 42 Mistrust 45 Having many wives 49 Back to school mo. 50 Owning 53 Pressure unit 54 Undergarment 55 Omit 56 Many times 58 Hospital worker 60 Tint

Carol (Smith) and Mark Poell, members of Immaculate Conception Parish, St. Marys, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 21. The couple was married on Aug. 21, 1971, at St. Isidore Catholic Student Center, Manhattan. Their children are: Nicole Poell, Washington, D.C.; Ty Poell, Onaga; Casey Poell, Manhattan; and Cody Poell, Lawrence. They also have eight grandchildren.

61 Totals 63 Established 69 Instrument to guide oxen 70 Leather whip 71 Vocalist 72 Bunsen burner 73 Comforts 74 Was looked at DOWN 1 Snacked 2 Tariff 3 Miner’s goal 4 Walnut’s cousin 5 Phoenician god 6 Fall mo. 7 French “yes” 8 Worn away 9 He survived lions’ den 10 __, frankincense and myrrh 11 One-celled animals 12 Sticky black substance 13 Finish 18 Big truck 22 City in the former USSR 23 Disconnected 24 River (Spanish) 25 Abridged (abbr.) 26 Homey 27 Decay 29 exist

30 Danish krone (abbr.) 32 Cain fled to this land 35 Recede 36 Honor your father and __ 38 Youngest son of Noah 40 Not yours 41 Hard boiled food 42 Pat 43 Possessive pronoun 44 Kampala resident 45 Raise the ante 46 Choose 47 Utilize 48 Transgression 51 European clover 52 Austrian capital 56 Extinguished 57 Clan fights 59 U.S. Department of Agriculture 60 Punches 61 Ripen 62 Period 64 Distress call 65 Day of the wk. 66 Draw 67 Adam’s wife 68 Tribe of Israel Solution on page 13

Venue available to Topeka public >> Continued from page 4 space] out,” said Father Pilcher. Spindler agreed. While the parish plans to use it for funeral dinners, first Communion receptions and graduation parties as well as other functions, Spindler said the parish also plans to rent it out to groups within the Topeka community. “We’re open for business, and if anybody

wants a really nice, cool venue for any event whatsoever, we’re open to parishioners and non-parishioners. So, just call our office,” Spindler said. All in all, Father Pilcher said, the new space allows the parish to practice hospitality. “If you don’t have any room for somebody to come, how can you be hospitable?” he asked.

AUGUST 13, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

A Cursillo weekend is the gift that keeps on giving By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — The Enflame convocation of 2019 was a clarion call to Catholics of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas to missionary discipleship. But it is not the first archdiocesan program to invite Catholics into a more personal relationship with Christ. For decades now, Cursillos de Cristiandad — or Cursillo, for short — has offered spiritual renewal to weekend retreatants. Literally translated, the Spanish word “cursillo” means “course” or “lesson.” It is known as “a short course in Christianity,” developed in Spain in 1944 by a group of friends who gathered for retreats. “Friendship is at the root of the Cursillo movement,” said Gail Shepard, a member of St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee, who made a three-day Cursillo retreat in 2009. “It’s friendship with others and friendship with Jesus Christ.” One of the slogans in the Cursillo movement puts it simply: “Make a friend, be a friend, bring a friend to Christ.” The small-group format reflects that focus on friendship. And although it has been duplicated often, it originated with Cursillo. “Cursillo is the original three-day movement, which is an encounter with yourself, an encounter with others and an encounter with Christ,” said Deacon Michael Hill, who made a Cursillo in 2002 and is now spiritual adviser for

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE BOLLIG

Gail Shepard, Deacon Michael Hill and Deacon Mark Mies discuss upcoming plans for Cursillo weekends for men and women. Cursillo in the archdiocese. Unlike the typical retreat, this experience continues after the three-day experience, because the participants — now called “Cursillistas” — continue to hold weekly “friendship group reunions” and larger gatherings called “ultrayas.” The weekly reunions are structured for prayer and sharing, utilizing the “Cursillo tripod” of piety, study and action, said Deacon Mark Mies, a member of St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee, who made a Cursillo in 2004. “For instance, if we are talking about

piety, we ask, ‘What was the most help to my spiritual life this week?’ and, ‘When was I most aware of Christ’s presence this week?” said Deacon Mies. The tripod is a good analogy to work with, said Deacon Hill. Not only are all three legs necessary, but they all must be the same length. Deficiencies in any one of the legs leave the tripod unstable and vulnerable to collapse. The great thing about meeting in a small group and asking questions about living the method — the tripod — is that it is a mechanism of accountability,

said Shepard. One of the misconceptions of Cursillo is that since it is an “archdiocesan” movement, it draws people out of the parish. But Cursillo organizers disagree. “One of the things we teach in Cursillo is ‘Bloom where you are planted,’” said Deacon Mies. “Cursillo is not trying to pull you away; it’s telling you to go back to your parish and make a difference.” In fact, participating in Cursillo has led some men — like him — to become deacons, said Deacon Mies. Both a men’s and a women’s Cursillo weekend is scheduled for this fall. The men’s weekend will be Sept. 23-26; the women’s, Nov. 11-14. Both will be held at Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kansas. The cost to attend is a freewill donation, which is taken up on Sundays at the end of the retreat. Scholarships are available for those needing financial assistance, and inability to pay is never an obstacle. The usual practice is to have someone active in Cursillo to sponsor the prospective retreatant, but sponsors can be found for those who do not have one. To apply, visit the website at: cursillo kcks.com. At the top of the homepage, click on “Weekend Dates & Locations.” Scroll down to and click “Download Application.” The application should be submitted at least four weeks before the date of the Cursillo event. For information and questions, call Kathy Ducey at (816) 804-9324.

Spirituality, staff help residents thrive at Santa Marta

LATHE — “He’s my Santa Marta son,” said Marie Weafer, a resident at the Catholic retirement community here for seven

years. She’s referring to Jeff Hohman, lead driver in the transportation department at Santa Marta. It’s not something you hear customers say about staff at most businesses, but the bonds at Santa Marta run deep. “They go beyond the call of duty and it’s such a wonderful feeling to know they care so much,” added Weafer. Hohman and his transportation team make a dozen or more trips a day, taking residents to appointments, shopping excursions, specialty dinners and other places. “We’re punctual and want it to be a good experience for them,” said Hohman. “We get to know them well — it’s professionalism with some feelings, respect and compassion.” “Sure, getting paid is nice, but more rewarding is helping older adults,” he added. “I love the people we’re around.” In late June at the annual staff celebration, associates enjoyed a catered lunch and summer gifts, like sunshades for their car windshields and baseball caps

PHOTO BY DAVE DUNN

Jeff Hohman (center) of Santa Marta prepares a ride for residents Buck and Marie Weafer. with Santa Marta logos. “There is a lot of great camaraderie among associates here, and the appreciation shown is considerable,” said Hohman. “More importantly, I couldn’t

be happier with leadership at Santa Marta for giving us the tools we need to provide a good experience for residents.” Sometimes, tools aren’t tangible things like comfortable transportation

cars or other equipment. They’re more spiritual and supportive in nature. “If they’re going to a doctor’s appointment to get some test results, we’ll say a prayer for them that things go well,” said Hohman. “We’re not being called to ask to pray, but we pray that things will go OK. It’s support in a respectful way and you have to be sensitive.” “They’re all like part of your family,” Weafer said. “From gestures and words of encouragement from staff to daily Mass with Father Frank [Burger], the spirituality here is fantastic. And it’s been especially helpful over the past year or so.” Weafer, other residents and associates at Santa Marta credit executive director Chet Surmaczewicz for setting the tone. “We’re blessed to have an uplifting culture with strong bonds among those who live, work or spend time at our community,” Surmaczewicz said. “Anyone who has an interest in exploring the range of career options we offer is more than welcome to connect with us.” “It takes strong, kind people to make a place successful, and they have it here,” said Weafer. “A little honey goes a long way and there’s a lot of honey here.”

A REBOOT ON LIFE With the help of Catholic volunteers, Sabetha woman finds hope and happiness outside of prison walls

ABETHA — The most freeing moment of Tammy Drake-Gannon’s life was when handcuffs were clamped on her wrists. “As soon as that happened, a sense of peace came over me that I have never in my life had. It’s when I knew there was some kind of God,” she said. “I didn’t know what God, but I knew there was a God.” She was aware that she was looking at nearly three decades in prison for her involvement in drug sales, coupled with a weapons charge. But she didn’t care. She was finally free. “I know it was God who saved me that day,” said Drake-Gannon. “I hated life. I had no intention to live. I didn’t want to serve 30 years. I was going to go out suicide by cop.” But when law enforcement arrived to arrest her, her dogs distracted her at the very moment she was attempting to provoke a life-ending response. She was arrested without further incident in 2017.

‘I didn’t have what matters’ Drake-Gannon had no formal religious instruction growing up. She lived with her grandparents, who “were very poor and very sick,” she said. “They gave me a roof over my head, but I was not brought up around any kind of religion at all,” she said. She fell into a life of selling drugs. “I had plenty of material things and had everything most people think you could ever want,” said Drake-Gannon, “but I didn’t have family or didn’t have God. I didn’t have what matters.” She served her sentence in the Topeka Correctional Facility, a state prison for women. “Prison is where I started getting my religion,” she said. “Being Catholic was

something I only heard jokes about my whole life. Being asked to go to Catholic group was like being asked to go to outer space, but I went, because it got me out of my cell.” Drake-Gannon said she immersed herself in Christian groups at prison but formed a special bond with the Catholic volunteers. “The volunteers taught me everything about religion. They didn’t just teach religion, they showed it by their kindness,” said Drake-Gannon. “For the first time in my life, I knew what true love and true happiness looked like. “The volunteers would come out of the goodness of their heart and spend so much time with us. They brought us kindness, love, a sense of peace, hope, joy. . . . They became family to a lot of us.” She met a volunteer named Ron Shirrell, who served as a volunteer for multiple years. “I honestly believe he changed my life,” said Drake-Gannon. “He said, ‘I am not here to get you to become Catholic. I’m here to answer any questions. I’m here to teach you whatever you want to know about God.’ “From that day forward, I never missed a chance to come to his service.”

‘A lost cause’ For the first several years of her sentence, Drake-Gannon was in maximum security, where movement was restricted and privileges were few. “A lot of volunteers don’t want to come to us. They might feel like we’re a lost cause or wasting their time,” she said. “The volunteers who came to us were special because we were not lost causes to them. We probably needed [the ministry] more than the others.” Accessing the traditional Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) classes was more difficult in the maximum security section of the facility. She said Shirrell advocated for two years on her behalf. By the time the details were sorted out, she was transferred to a different area of the prison, where she was able to

Tammy Drake-Gannon (center) joined the Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil on April 3 at Sacred Heart Ch Zarse, pastor, and Gina Sallman, right.

“

By Karen Bonar Special to The Leaven

THE VOLUNTEERS TAUGHT ME EVERYTHING ABOUT RELIGION. THEY DIDN’T JUST TEACH RELIGION, THEY SHOWED IT BY THEIR KINDNESS. FOR THE FIRST TIME IN MY LIFE, I KNEW WHAT TRUE LOVE AND TRUE HAPPINESS LOOKED LIKE. TAMMY DRAKE-GANNON PARISHIONER OF SACRED HEART, SABETHA

take RCIA class with other inmates. “We had a whole group who would have joined the church together — the archbishop was coming. But when COVID-19 hit, they stopped allowing volunteers in,” said Drake-Gannon. While she originally faced 30 years in prison for not registering as a drug offender and for weapons charges, Drake-Gannon wound up spending only about four years at the Topeka facility.

This was because she took a plea bargain for less time and also was granted a downward departure, which also lessened her prison sentence. As she approached her release, she decided being in a Christian community was important. “I knew I needed a faith-based house,” Drake-Gannon said, and when she landed a job in Sabetha, a friend mentioned My Sister’s House.

CNS PHOTO/KAREN CALLAWAY, NORTHWEST INDIANA CATHOLIC

Catholic volunteers at the Topeka Correctional Facility, a state prison for women, showed Tammy Drake-Gannon the kindness and compassion that had been missing in her life.

COURTESY PHOTO

hurch in Sabetha. She is pictured with Father Jaime “I knew God had plans,” she said. “I didn’t know what those plans were. I never dreamed they would be this amazing. I just signed a lease on my own house!” “I’m going to make this my hometown,” she continued. “This town is full of surprises and love.”

‘That was all God’ One such surprise was learning that the priest in the small, rural community she chose to move to previously ministered at the prison where she had been incarcerated. “I had heard so much about him through Ron. When I came here, I found out it was the same Father [Jaime] Zarse,” she said. “I knew that was all God. The volunteers spoke so highly of Father [Zarse]. He made an impact on them and encouraged them to keep coming back for us,”

she said. As she assimilated into Sabetha, My Sister’s House connected her with staff at Sacred Heart Parish, where Father Zarse was teaching an RCIA class. “It was a whole different experience than what I had, but it was two completely great experiences,” said DrakeGannon. “We were taught by a book in prison and Father Zarse taught from lecture.” During the RCIA process, she formed a friendship with Gina Sallman, the parish’s director of faith formation. Sallman said the Christian churches in Sabetha have a strong working relationship with My Sister’s House. “The community is very supportive of their helping the women find jobs or rides or take them to church,” Sallman said. She initially began by giving Drake-Gannon rides to Mass on Sunday. Friendships naturally grew and evolved within the parish. “Right after I started bringing her, people at the church invited her to a Sunday night Bible study,” Sallman said. “Other parishioners would pick her up and bring her. She got involved right off the bat with weekend Mass, RCIA and Bible study. A lot of people have surrounded her with love and support.” And COVID couldn’t cancel this year’s Easter joy, when at the Easter

Vigil on April 3, Drake-Gannon was welcomed into the Catholic Church. And it was everything she had hoped for. “We can anticipate these big things, but experiencing it was a whole different level,” said Drake-Gannon. “Being in the church is like being welcomed into a family. It takes on a new meaning.”

‘I have a family now’ About eight months after moving to Sabetha, Drake-Gannon saved enough to rent a place on her own. Sallman reached out to those who attended RCIA class, as well as Bible study participants. “I emailed 10 people or less, but in a short time, she had furnishings and all the kitchen stuff she needs,” Sallman said. “We talk about being a parish family, and I have really seen it in action when it comes to Tammy.” Honesty is something Drake-Gannon said was important to her as she embarked upon this new family relationship. “I have never lied about my past or hid my past from anyone,” she said. “Father and the people here have proven that it’s a family. There’s no judgment. I have made a lot of bad mistakes, but I have a family now, a true family. It’s amazing.”

Drake-Gannon has settled into parish life, participating in Bible studies. She has also become involved in the Christian Motorcycle Association, another group that was formative in her journey toward Christianity.

‘God had me’ Drake-Gannon credits the prison volunteers, especially Shirrell and Sister Mary Pat Johnson, SCL, for aiding her in her journey to the Catholic Church. “I think it’s so important for people to realize that everyday people can make such a difference, whether they know it or not,” she said, “[like] the volunteers coming and just listening to the inmates. We wanted to talk to someone who isn’t judging us. That’s what the volunteers are really good at.” It was more than three years from the date she was arrested to the time she joined the Catholic Church. “I have been blessed in so many ways,” concluded Drake-Gannon. “If it wasn’t for the volunteers who took the time to do what they did in prison, I wouldn’t have all the opportunities I do now. “The whole time I was locked up in prison, I was not miserable. I was happy. God had me from the moment I was picked up. I knew somebody wrapped their arms around me and I was going to be OK.”

LOCAL NEWS

AUGUST 13, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

New golf tourney benefits seminarians, religious vocations By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

EAWOOD — Only the best of the best can win the five major tournaments that comprise the Grand Slam of professional golf. But even the Grand Slam pales in importance to the biggest one of all: the Master’s Cup Invitational. That’s because “the Master” is Jesus Christ, and the cup is the chalice of salvation. Nothing’s bigger. On Aug. 2, nearly 200 people participated in the first Master’s Cup golf charity event and luncheon, sponsored by the vocation office of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and the Johnson County Serra Club. The event took place at the Iron Horse Golf Club in Leawood. The event was billed as an opportunity for young people of high school and college age to interact with priests, seminarians and religious, and possibly think about vocations to the priesthood and religious life. The speaker at the luncheon was Dustin Colquitt, former Kansas City Chiefs punter. During the 2019 season, Colquitt played in Super Bowl LIV and set a Chiefs franchise record for most games played. “It was geared for young men to encounter priests and seminarians in a new environment and a new way of relating in an informal golf outing, barbecue luncheon and speaker’s series, and see how the Lord speaks to them through that encounter,” said Father Dan Morris, director of the vocation office. One of the participants was Christian Kaufman, a junior majoring in behavioral neuroscience at the University of Kansas in Lawrence. “I decided to participate because I love being able to spend time with priests and seminarians, because it can be hard to see them as just regular guys and friends, sometimes,” said Kaufman. “They make radical and amazing decisions to discern, and it’s fun to be able to see that it is possible to discern [a vocation to the priesthood] and just be a normal dude.” Kaufman’s group of four included Father Mitchel Zimmerman, director and chaplain of the St. Lawrence

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

Archdiocesan seminarian Colm Larkin tees off at the Master’s Cup Invitational, a golf charity event and luncheon co-sponsored by the vocation office of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and the Johnson County Serra Club. Catholic Campus Center at the University of Kansas. They played on the front nine and won with a score of nine under par. “We talked about our summers and golf,” said Kaufman. “Father Mitchel just came off of a 30-day silent retreat, so it was very interesting to hear about his experience with that. . . . We just chatted and had a blast doing it.” The event also raised funds for the Heart to Heart Scholarship Fund. “[This will] release or relieve some of the financial burden associated with college seminarians,” said Father Morris, “because we ask them to pay a little less than half of their tuition, and room and board, every year.” The money raised will also go to help pay down the debt of young women entering a religious order, a requirement before they can enter formation in a religious community. The event raised $45,000.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

Seminarian Alex Rickert talks to the Johnson County Serra Club about the Heart to Heart Scholarship Fund that helps relieve the financial burden of college seminarians as Father Dan Morris, archdiocesan vocations director, looks on.

AUGUST 13, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

NATION

Street Masses bring Catholic Church to Chicago neighborhood By Michelle Martin Catholic News Service

HICAGO (CNS) — For the neighbors who came out for a recent street Mass in the Little Village neighborhood here, blessings

abounded. The weather held, with no rain and a breeze to lift the heat. Cicadas sang and birds twittered in the trees, offering entertainment for babies and toddlers in their parents’ arms as Father James Kastigar, associate pastor of St. Agnes of Bohemia Parish, celebrated Mass in Spanish July 22 to mark the feast of St. Mary Magdalene. The Mass was one of several outdoor street Masses hosted by parishioners this year, resuming a tradition that had to be put on hold in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Masses have been celebrated for about 20 years. “We continue to gather as a community and welcome the opportunity to pray for the end to violence and continue to push for peace,” said Father Don Nevins, parish pastor. “This is also an opportunity to let people know we are open for business and are welcoming people back to Mass after the pandemic.” The Masses are organized by parishioners who participate in Misión Guadalupana, said Carmen García, one of the organizers for the San Augustin sector that hosted the Mass. The group divides the parish into 10 sectors and hosts at least one Tuesday or Thursday evening Mass in each sector, planning for months ahead of the July celebrations. “We want to offer the presence of our God and celebrate the Mass so people can experience it where they live,” García said. For each Mass, volunteers find a host family who will provide electricity for the sound system, and water and light refreshments after the liturgy. Leslie Dominguez, 17, was part of the

CNS PHOTO/KAREN CALLAWAY, CHICAGO CATHOLIC

Father James Kastigar is the main celebrant of a street Mass in Chicago on July 22. St. Agnes of Bohemia Church in Chicago held several street Masses in June and July in an effort to bring the Gospel message of peace and hope to city neighborhoods and pray for an end to the violence that has plagued the streets of Chicago in 2021. host family for the celebration. “It’s really important to have a Mass where you live,” Dominguez told Chicago Catholic, the archdiocesan newspaper. “God transcends everywhere, but this is God at our home.” Each family is a “domestic church,” Father Kastigar said, and bringing the Mass to parishioners’ neighborhoods emphasizes that. “Each house is a little church, and that’s where the faith should grow, in each house,” he said. Volunteers arrange to close the street, obtain the necessary permits from the city and spread word about the Mass in the neighborhood. In the past, that has meant going out two by two, García said, just as Jesus’

disciples did, and knocking on doors. This year, because of the pandemic, organizers hung flyers in the neighborhood. Those who attended this year were asked to wear face masks and bring their own chairs. Participants can also bring religious articles or water to be blessed at the end of Mass, Father Kastigar said. He also blessed all the children present, and offered a special blessing for a girl celebrating her 15th birthday. “Usually somebody brings a cat or a dog or something,” Father Kastigar said after the Mass, noting that the only four-footed guest was a cat that wandered through the congregation on its own. “And that’s fine, too.”

The Masses also offer an opportunity for people to pray for an end to violence, García said, noting that street violence can be a problem in Little Village. “Once people are touched by the mercy of God, they can help stop the violence,” she said. Mass concluded with announcements — “It’s not a Catholic Mass without a collection and announcements,” Father Kastigar joked — including one encouraging parishioners to return to church as COVID-19 restrictions have eased. “It’s important for us to bring the church to the people in the neighborhood,” he said. “But it’s also important for the people to come to church.”

New Jersey Catholic high school graduate signs with the Royals By David Karas Catholic News Service

RENTON, N.J. (CNS) — Shane Panzini has come a long way since he first fell in love with baseball while playing T-ball at age 5. The 19-year-old recent graduate of Red Bank Catholic High School in Red Bank, New Jersey, is now among the ranks of professional baseball players. Panzini was selected by the Kansas City Royals in the fourth round — and as the 108th overall pick — in the recent Major League Baseball draft. He has since signed with the team and traveled to Arizona, where he is preparing to start his career with the organization. “It felt really cool,” Panzini said of getting the call that he had been drafted. “It was a good family moment.” In the weeks leading up to the draft, Panzini had been ranked highly on various draft prospect lists and charts, and the right-handed pitcher drew more than his share of Major League scouts to his games as a Casey. There also was interest from high-level staff from teams such as the Chicago Cubs and the Baltimore Orioles, but the Red Bank standout didn’t realize how invested the Royals were

CNS PHOTO/RICHARD O’DONNELL, THE MONITOR

Shane Panzini throws a fastball during a game for his baseball team, the Red Bank Catholic High School Caseys, in Lawrence, New Jersey, in this undated photo. in him. “I didn’t know they were in that heavy, but I am just happy to be part of such a great organization and with some great teammates,” he told The Monitor Magazine, the monthly publication of the Diocese of Trenton.

“Things are going really well.” In his senior year, Panzini chalked up a 0.91 ERA while setting a singleseason record 115 strikeouts. But despite his own success, he always made sure his teammates were included in his accomplishments.

“He talked about them and not about himself. When we won the Shore Conference tournament, he helped make sure the whole team was included, and same with his going away party after he signed,” said his coach, Buddy Hausmann. “All his current teammates were invited because those were the guys he wanted there,” he added. “They all feel a part of the process he experienced this spring.” Hausmann said Panzini’s success demonstrates how hard work can pay off, but the coach said he will stand out more “for the person he is.” “The stories I will tell about him will have nothing to do with his performances on the mound. It will be more about the type of person he was,” he said. “He led by example, treated others with so much respect and never made any of this about him. He enjoyed his teammates and playing the game of baseball. He was a true leader on and off the field.” Hausmann believes Panzini has what it takes to be one of the greats. “He has the makeup as a player and person to be successful,” he said. “He will continue to develop and get better.”

CLASSIFIEDS

12 EMPLOYMENT Part-time employment opportunity - Happy Hearts Working, Inc., a local day service program for adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities, is seeking a part-time supervisor for Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Competitive hourly rate of pay and enriching work environment! For details regarding this position, please contact Carol Farnsworth, executive director, at (913) 706-2356 or at: happyheartsworking@gmail.com. Opportunity of a lifetime - Youth ministry director position open in the Salina Diocese. Contact Kim Hoelting, HR director, at (785) 342-0819 or email Kim at: Kim. hoelting@salinadiocese.org for the job description and more information. Nurse intake coordinator - The position of Allied Health intake coordinator is responsible for building relationships with area schools, health facilities and the community at large to recruit prospective students who are interested in the health field. The successful candidate will help students understand career paths within the health care industry, particularly those related to CNA, LPN and RN licenses and guide students along academic paths in these areas. This position works closely with the director of nursing in candidate selection for both the nursing and CNA programs. Qualified candidates should have an associate degree with health care-related experience required, bachelor’s degree preferred; maintain confidentiality of health care paperwork and sensitive information provided by students who apply for a seat in the Allied Health programs; understand nursing profession and Allied Health curriculum and experience advising students; be aware of the impact of cultural patterns on student retention and student learning; have the ability to work collaboratively with faculty, administrators, students, staff; proficient in Microsoft Office products; be detail-oriented; and be philosophically aligned with the mission and values of the college to engage and support our Catholic identity. Practicing Roman Catholic preferred. Please email your cover letter, resume and transcripts to: hr@donnelly.edu with “Nurse intake coordinator” in the subject line. Experienced educator - Holy Spirit School is seeking an experienced educator, licensed in the state of Kansas, for the 2021-22 school year. An endorsement of reading specialist of SPED is preferred. Please contact Michele Watson at (913) 492-2582, ext. 113, or at: mwatson@ hscatholic.org. Pre-K teacher position - Holy Cross Early Education is seeking a lead pre-K teacher for a Monday - Friday morning class and a Monday, Wednesday, Friday afternoon class. Applicants must be well-organized, loving and energetic. Preschool or child care experience is highly recommended for this position. If you are interested, please contact Stefanie Brides at (913) 381-7151 or send a resume to: sbridges@holycrosscatholicschool.com. Part-time and full-time workers - St. Teresa’s Academy and Taher Food Service is looking for part-time and fulltime workers. Positions available include: chef; manager; lead cook; prep work; server; point-of-sale/cashier; and dishwasher/utility. Come and join our family and let’s have some FUN. Contact Mary at: m.sandgren@taher. com. Join the Robeks Juice team! - We are in need of three four team members for the 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. shift, three four days during the week. This is a fun place to work and NO WEEKENDS. Applicants should possess: an outgoing personality; be a team player; have computer proficiency; excel in a fast-paced environment; be a self-starter; have reliable transportation and an abundance of positive vibes! If interested, contact Cole at: Robeksop@ gmail.com. Catholic Cemeteries seeks multitalented administrative assistant - Catholic Cemeteries of Northeast Kansas invites qualified candidates to apply for a fulltime administrative assistant position, working Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at our Overland Park office. The position will support the director of sales and marketing. We are seeking an individual who works well with people, has outstanding computer skills, and has the ability to organize and manage multiple projects. The ideal candidate will be Catholic and bilingual (English and Spanish). We offer competitive wages. To apply, contact Catholic Cemeteries at (913) 371-4040 or at: balonzo@cathcemks.org. Head softball coach - St. James Academy in Lenexa is looking for a head softball coach for the 2022 spring season. St. James Academy exists to pass on the Catholic faith to the next generation, and our ideal candidate should be a witness to our Catholic faith and be able to guide our student athletes within our school’s mission. Ideal candidates will have coaching experience and focused leadership for all levels of competition and for assistant coaches. To apply for this position, please email your resume, cover letter and references to Jared Herzet, our director of athletics and activities, at: jherzet@sja keepingfaith.org. Parish social concerns minister - The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Kansas City, Missouri, is seeking a parish social concerns minister. This person will assist guests who are homeless or impoverished with short-term material assistance. This assistance includes but is not limited to: clothing, food, hygiene, prescriptions, identification and referrals to other agencies. The position is part time based upon 20 - 24 hours per week. The parish social concerns minister must be on campus a minimum of every Tuesday-Friday mornings from 8 - 11 a.m. Other hours are flexible. Please visit “Job Openings” at: www.kcsjcatholic.org for a complete job description and to apply.

Help wanted - Seeking dependable person for yard maintenance through late fall. Call Nancy at (913) 2088074. Advancement officer - Donnelly College is looking for a driven advancement officer to join the college’s advancement team. This exciting opportunity requires an individual who is attentive to details, works well with a diverse array of constituencies, enjoys meeting people, works well individually and as part of a team. Responsibilities include: serve as integral member of the advancement team with the primary goal of securing major gifts to support Donnelly’s mission and vision through new and existing donor prospects; manage the cultivation cycle leading to the successful solicitation and securing of major gifts for annual fund, capital projects, endowment, event sponsorships and planned gifts; manage (and help grow) a portfolio of major gift prospects (up to 125 in portfolio); develop and coordinate major gift prospect strategies with donor database analyst, annual fund coordinator, vice president of advancement and, when appropriate, the president of the college; schedule and hold individual meetings with prospects and donors to qualify interest and capacity; create individualized prospect engagement and stewardship plans for all constituents in your portfolio; recruit membership into the Jerome Society by securing annual gifts of $1,000 and above. Please email your cover letter, resume and transcripts to: hr@donnelly.edu with “Advancement officer” in the subject line. Parish life coordinator - St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood, is seeking a motivated, faith-filled “people person” for the staff parish life coordinator position. The role of this position is to maximize parishioner involvement in the life of the parish and community. This includes serving as staff contact for multiple ministries, helping parishioners make the most of their time and talents, communicating opportunities for participation and organizing various parish events. Full-time or parttime option available with limited evening and weekend hours. Full-time positions include benefits. Complete job description and contact details available at: stmichaelcp. org/employment-opportunities. Please send resume and cover letter to: denise.greene@stmichaelcp.org. Mary’s Catholic Montessori Training Center - Mary’s Catholic Montessori Training Center (MCMTC) is currently accepting applicants for our fall cohort, starting in September. Located in Eudora, MCMTC trains and certifies Catholic Montessori guides to transform the world. In this program, the Montessori method and Catechesis of the Good Shepherd are united as an organic whole, preparing Catholic Montessori guides to deliver full Montessori formation to children and their families. Check out mcmtc. org for more details or send an email to: info@mcmtc.org.

Part-time chiropractic assistant - Busy chiropractic office in N.W. Olathe (K-10 and Ridgeview Rd.) is looking for a part-time assistant for Fridays, 7 a.m. - 1 p.m., and one or two Saturdays a month, 8 a.m. - 1 p.m., with the possibility of covering additional hours as needed. $12 per hour plus bonuses. Job duties include answering phones, scheduling and checking in patients, insurance, assisting with patient therapies, etc. If you are professional, friendly, hard-working, and would like to help others, our office may be the place for you! Must have great phone and computer skills. Must be a people person and have a flexible schedule. Insurance experience is a plus but not necessary. We will train on patient therapies. Executive assistant - data support specialist Catholic Education Foundation - The Catholic Education Foundation is seeking an executive assistant-data support specialist to provide administrative and clerical support to the executive director and leadership team and manage the donor database system. Duties include assisting with board and committee meeting logistics; coordinating mail mergers and thank you letters; database entry; running donor reports; assisting with scholarship application process; answering incoming calls; and serving as liaison to schools. The ideal candidates will possess exceptional communication and customer service skills; be proficient in Raiser’s Edge or other donor database systems; have strong organizational and problem solving skills; and expertise with MS Office programs. Candidates must have a minimum of a high school diploma, college degree preferred; at least three years working in administrative role; experience working with executive level staff; and be a practicing Catholic in good standing. Experience working in nonprofit offices is preferred. To apply send cover letter and resume to: cefsupport@archkck.org. Administrative assistant The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking qualified candidates to fill a fulltime position of administrative assistant for the office of the tribunal. Qualified applicants must have experience handling general office duties; creating and maintaining databases; must be proficient using the Microsoft Suite of Office products including Word and Excel, internet and the ability to learn other software and social media as required; file management of both paper and electronic files; must be a practicing Catholic in good standing and an active and faithful steward in their parish. This position requires a high school diploma or equivalent plus a minimum of three years’ prior experience working in a professional office environment. Self-motivated candidates with the ability to work independently as well as part of a team are encouraged to submit their information for consideration. To apply, please visit: archkck. org/jobs. Application deadline Aug. 5. Work force specialist - Do you want to change lives? Do you want to help break the cycle of poverty? Do you have a social work degree and experience in case management? This could be your opportunity! Come join our team! For more information and to apply, go online to: https:// catholiccharitiesks.org/, then go to “About Us” and click on “Careers,” then scroll down to “View Job Openings.”

Administrative specialist - bookkeeper - The Catholic Education Foundation is seeking an administrative specialist - bookkeeper. This position provides bookkeeping support and assists with administrative duties as needed to the Catholic Education Foundation. Duties include: processing and coding donations and invoices; making deposits; reconciling accounts; entering transactions in database system; running financial and donor reports; monitoring bank accounts and cash flow; maintaining back-up and support documents; serving as liaison to the archdiocesan accounting department; and providing support for donor database projects and scholarship processing. Ideal candidates will have a college degree or equivalent experience; at least three - five years in bookkeeping or accounting, preferably in nonprofit; excellent written and verbal skills; exceptional customer service skills; proficient in Excel and other MS Office programs; ability to create and manage dashboard and spreadsheet reports; strong problem-solving skills; detail-oriented; and must be a Catholic in good standing. To apply, send cover letter and resume to: vanch@ archkck.org. Financial empowerment specialist - Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas is hiring an asset development program specialist to serve the Leavenworth and Atchison communities. If you have a passion for serving others and a human services background, consider joining our team. Our programs empower individuals to change their financial futures through financial coaching, goalsetting and strength-based case management. For more information and to apply, go online to: recruiting. https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/ Details/590503/Catholic-Charities-of-NortheastKansas-INC/Financial-Empowerment-Specialist. Food pantry and case management specialist - Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas is seeking a compassionate, yet energetic, case manager looking to make a difference in the community. This person will work alongside the manager of Family Support Services at our Wyandotte County location overseeing the food pantry and providing financial assistance to those who may qualify. We are looking for someone that can manage diverse funding streams, enjoys being part of a team and works effectively with volunteers. If this is you, please apply at: https://catholiccharitiesks.org/careers/. Instructional assistant - St. Ann School in Prairie Village is seeking an instructional assistant. The ideal candidate would be available 20 - 29 hours per week and will be supporting both students and teachers. Interested candidates, please contact St. Ann principal Liz Minks at: lminks@stannpv.org. Director of health services - The monks of St. Benedict’s Abbey are seeking a qualified nurse to serve as the director of health services. This full-time role will lead a team in providing for the health and wellness of the monastic community. To learn more and apply, go online to: Kansasmonks.org/jobs or call (913) 360-7908. Hiring part-time bus drivers - Look at the incredible opportunities! Sign-on bonus! $1500 (non-CDL drivers); $3000 for CDL drivers. 1) Starting pay is $17.50 - $18 per hour for 0 - 2 years’ experience; $18.25 - $23.19 per hour for 3 - 20 years’ experience. 2) Paid training and development (bring your children to training and save on day care fees.) 3) Bring your children to ride along on your routes with our Ride-Along Program. 4) 401(k) with company match. 5) Must be 21 years or older and driving for at least three years. 6) Must have excellent driving and criminal record. We pay the same rate for our trips as we do for driving school routes! Apply online at: www. careers.nellc.com or in person at: Durham Blue Valley, 7321 W. 135th St., Overland Park. (913) 681-2492. Nursing faculty - A full-time nursing faculty position carries the primary responsibility of helping students to master subject material and skills that will contribute to their personal and intellectual development and success in the nursing program. This person works with the director of nursing to schedule coursework/activities that will help students to complete their goal of becoming health care professionals and to support the program. Must be able to pass a background check and complete Virtus training. Qualifications include: MSN or BSN with MSN in progress; unencumbered Kansas nursing license; committed to diversity and serving a diverse population; ability to communicate well and assist students in gaining practice and knowledge in the clinical situation; adult teaching experience preferred; excellent leadership and communication skills; experience with instructing technology-based courses; alternative teaching strategies preferred; demonstrate a thorough and accurate knowledge of use of electronic communication and audiovisual equipment; philosophically aligned with the mission and values of the college to engage and support our Catholic identity. Please email your cover letter,

resume and transcripts to: hr@donnelly.edu with “Nursing instructor” in the subject line.

Preschool lead teacher - St. Patrick Parish Early Education Center is seeking a preschool lead teacher for the 2021-22 school year. The ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic who has prior early childhood teaching experience, and has an AA, BA or BS degree in early education, early childhood, child development or a related field. Hours will be Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., August - May. Pay is based on level of experience. Interested individuals should send a resume and pay range to Nena Scott at: nscott@stpatrickkck.eduk12.net. Drivers and aides - Assisted Transportation is now hiring safe drivers and aides to transport students with special needs in Johnson, Wyandotte and Clay County, Missouri, in company vans. Drivers earn $14 - $16 per hour. Aides earn $12 per hour. Part-time and full-time schedules available. CDL not required. Retirees encouraged to apply. Make a difference in your community by helping those in need. Call (913) 521-4955 for more information. EEO

AUGUST 13, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG Part-time parish coordinator - St. John Parish and School in Lawrence seeks a part-time parish coordinator. The parish coordinator will be responsible for the efficient use of parish facilities and managing supportive services. Candidates with one - three years of work experience and bilingual (English/Spanish) are preferred. Please see the full job description and requirements at: www.sjevangelist.com. Anticipated start date is Aug. 1. Position will be open until filled. Please send cover letter and resume to Father John Cousins at: frjohn@sjevangelist.com or mail to: 1229 Vermont St., Lawrence, KS 66044. Business manager - St. John Church and School in Lawrence seeks a full-time business manager. The manager will administer the finances of the parish and school, maintain accuracy of all financial operations and serve as HR officer. Applicants need computer and new technologies competencies. Candidates with a degree in business/accounting with one to three years of experience or its equivalency. Bilingual (English and Spanish) is preferred. See full job description and requirements at: www.sjevangelist.com. This position is eligible for an archdiocesan benefits package. The anticipated start date is July 26. Position open until filled. Send cover letter and resume to Fr. John Cousins at: frjohn@sjevangelist. com or mail to 1229 Vermont St., Lawrence, KS 66044. Executive director/community leader of L’Arche Heartland - The mission of L’Arche Heartland is: Make known the gifts of people with intellectual disabilities, revealed through mutually transforming relationships; foster an environment in community that responds to the changing needs of our members; and engage in our diverse cultures, working together toward a more human society. The community leader is responsible for guiding L’Arche Heartland in living authentically the mission and values of L’Arche in its commitment to community among adults with and without intellectual disabilities, finding spirituality in its daily life, while simultaneously maintaining strict compliance with all licensing requirements. This person ensures that the needs of adults with intellectual disabilities are met and that their gifts are promoted both within the L’Arche Heartland community and in the wider environs. The community leader leads the implementation of the community mandate consistent with the identity and mission of L’Arche. This individual leads, manages and administers the daily operations of the community in order to meet the financial, legal and quality standards expected from the governmental authorities. Key responsibilities include: Nurture the spiritual life of the community; assure state compliance as a licensed provider of Home and Community Based Supports for Residential and Day Service on the Kansas I/DD Medicaid waiver (adherence to Kansas Article 63); guarantee the quality of care for 37 adults with intellectual disabilities; build and develop a vibrant community life; raise funds, develop the community and manage its finances; promote the message of L’Arche; manage human resources; work with other L’Arche communities; and work with L’Arche Heartland board of directors. Requirements include: a bachelor’s or higher degree in a field of human services; work experience in the area of human services; certification that the organization’s chief director of services is qualified to supervise the delivery of a program of services to persons; at least one year of experience in a senior management-level position with a licensed provider; at least two years of experience as either a case manager or a services manager; at least five years of experience delivering direct care services to persons; and three letters of reference concerning the organization’s chief director of services. Interested candidates please submit a letter of interest, a current resume and references with contact information to the L’Arche Heartland discernment/search team at: harmony@larcheks.org. Position open until filled. Director of development and stewardship - St. John Church and School in Lawrence seeks a full-time director of development and stewardship. The director will develop and administer development plans to ensure the long-term viability of the church and school. The director will oversee all advancement activities necessary by building relationships with a broad range of parishioners, parents, alumni, volunteers and community members. Candidates with three to five years of fundraising experience and bilingual (English and Spanish) are preferred. Please see full job description and requirements at: www.sjevangelist.com. This position is eligible for an archdiocesan benefits package. Please send cover letter and resume to Father John Cousins at: frjohn@sjevangelist.com or mail to: 1229 Vermont St., Lawrence, KS 66044. Career positions at Ryan Lawn - Full-time career positions at Ryan Lawn & Tree for people who have a passion for plants, working outdoors and customer service. Put your degree to work in the outdoors. We are faith-based and 100% employee-owned. We offer careers in forestry (both plant healthy and pruning), turf, pest and landscaping. With 350 associates in five branches, we have growth careers for the right people. We expect a lot. We can teach you our industry if you want to learn and are willing to work hard. If you or someone you know is interested, apply online at: RyanLawn.com. Caregivers - Daughters & Company is looking for several compassionate caregivers to provide assistance to seniors in their home, assisted living or in a skilled nursing facility. We provide light housekeeping/light meal preparation, organizational assistance, care management and occasional transportation services for our clients. We need caregivers with reliable transportation and a cellphone for communication. A CNA background is helpful, though not mandatory. We typically employ on a parttime basis, but will strive to match up hours desired. Contact Gary or Laurie at (913) 341-2500 if you want to become part of an excellent caregiving team. >> Classifieds continue on page 13

CLASSIFIEDS

AUGUST 13, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG >> Continued from page 12 Digital marketing coordinator - Bishop Miege High School is looking for a part-time (20 - 25 hours/week) qualified digital marketing coordinator to join our faithbased community. You will partner with our faculty, staff and coaches to develop and edit digital content on the website and through social media channels. You will also play a support role in maintenance of records in our donor database. Requirements include: bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, marketing or related field; one to three years’ experience with writing/editing online content; one to three years’ experience with online community building; ability to analyze website and social media reports; excellent time management skills; excellent attention to detail; excellent interpersonal skills; excellent written and verbal communication; the ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic. To express interest in this position, send a resume and cover letter to Molly Peterson at: mpeterson@bishopmiege.com. Full-time assistant teachers - With multiple locations in Johnson County, Special Beginnings Early Learning Center provides high quality child care in a safe, loving Christian environment. With a balanced curriculum of pre-academics and the right environment, we believe we are providing the children the foundation to a successful life. We are looking for full-time assistant teachers for all ages who have an excellent work ethic, a heart for children and a willingness to learn more about early childhood education. Experience and/or education is a plus, but we will train the right candidate. Duties include supervising and ensuring the safely and well-being of the children at all times; following predetermined curriculum and daily schedule; decorating the class and keeping classrooms clean and orderly; creating and filling out daily reports for each child; communicating with parents; meeting children’s basic needs (diapers, bottles, etc.). Must be patient and able to respond to difficult situations calmly; have good interpersonal skills with co-workers, parents and children; and be able to lift 25 pounds on a regular basis. There are opportunities for career advancement. For more information or to apply, call Carolyn Andruss at (913) 894-0131, option 3. Telephone buried cable operators needed - This is a subcontractor position. Outside work in all weather conditions in Nebraska, central and western Kansas. Must pass background check and drug screen. Half ton or heavier pickup with valid insurance required. Plow equipment provided. Pay is per completed job. Paid training available to right candidate. Current subcontractors also looking for laborers. Call or text (785) 217-4118 for information during business hours. Assistants - Assistants needed to provide support for developmentally disabled adults in a day program setting. Hours are 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. five days a week. Health, dental and vision premiums paid in full after two months of employment. Join us for meaningful, fulfilling relationships with our community. Larcheks.org. Part-time teacher aide - St. Michael the Archangel Preschool is seeking a part-time teacher aide for our four-years-old classroom. This person is responsible for assisting the lead teacher in carrying out daily activities, carrying out the rules and regulations of our licensure and maintaining principles of sound Catholic education. If you are interested, please contact Jennie Wente, preschool director, at (913) 402-3971 or send resume and cover letter to: jennie.wente@stmichaelcp.org.

MISCELLANEOUS Veterans Treatment Court - Veterans Treatment Court of Wyandotte County is seeking veterans to mentor other veterans challenged by court-related issues. Email: wycovtcmentor@gmail.com.

HOME IMPROVEMENT 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 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: dandeeconst@aol.com. 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. Local Handyman - Painting int. and ext., wood rot, masonry (chimney repair), gutter cleaning (gutter covers), dryer vent cleaning, sump pump (replace, add new), windows, doors (interior and exterior) honey-do list and more! Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118. Popcorn ceiling texture removal Interior wall painting specialist. Jerry at (913) 206-1144. 30 years’ experience. Call with questions 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) 252-1391

SERVICES Memory quilts - Preserve your memories in a keepsake quality quilt, pillows, etc. Custom designed from your Tshirt collection, baby clothes, sports memorabilia, neckties . . . Quilted Memories. (913) 649-2704. Tutoring - Fall tutoring for K - adult. Sessions are fun and meaningful. For more information, please call Kathleen at (913) 206-2151 or email: Klmamuric@yahoo.com. Mary Kay consultant - Come journey with me as we find the perfect products for your top concerns and skin care needs. With four-plus years of hands-on training, I’m here to make your needs, wants and desires come to fruition. Holly Thomas (913) 205-1169. Financial coach – Living paycheck to paycheck? Little or no savings? If you’re struggling with your finances and feeling overwhelmed but don’t know where to turn, I would love to help guide you out of financial stress and into a life of abundance. Free consultation. Call or text Julie at (913) 617-5409 or email: juliekolichbarron@ gmail.com. Dave Ramsey-certified. Garage Door Repair New Garage Doors Platinum Amarr dealer, Elite Home Advisor top rating. Call Joe, mention The Leaven discount. A Total Door (913) 236-6440.

Handyman - I wanted to let you all know that we do basement finishes, deck building, bathroom and kitchen remodeling. This includes tile work, cabinet refinishing, and any sheetrock work. We also do all things flooring, siding, windows, doors, covered porches, sheds and much more. I really appreciate all your support. Please call Joshua Doherty at (913) 709-7230. 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 http://www. montemacedisability.org. 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.teresakiddlaw.com. Please do not wait until life seems hopeless before getting good quality legal advice that may solve your financial stress. ACT Prep - Founded by a Bishop Miege graduate, Pathway Prep has helped over 250 students during the last four years improve their scores. In-person or virtual sessions available. For more information, visit: pathway prepkc.com and contact Alex Pint at (913) 991-8217 or: alex@pathwayprepkc.com. Masonry work - Quality new or repair work. Brick, block and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; second-generation bricklayer. Member of St. Paul Parish. Call (913) 271-0362. Stone Painting - We are offering FREE ESTIMATES to any and all that are interested in painting this summer. We do interior, exterior house painting, along with decks, fences and much more. At Stone Painting, we ensure professional, quality and cheap services tailored to your needs. Call now at (913) 963-6465. Custom countertops - Laminates installed within 5 days. Cambria, granite, and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee. Next level Design & Remodelling and More llc. 10 to 40% off Exterior, Interior painting Hard surface flooring, remolding Call (913) 709-8401. Free estimates. 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.

REAL ESTATE

For rent - House for rent; $800 per month. Call Kassie at (913) 548-5888. We buy houses and whole estates - We are local and family owned, and will make you a fair cash offer. We buy houses in any condition. No fees or commissions and can close on the date of your choice. Selling your house as is never felt so good. Jon & Stacy Bichelmeyer (913) 599-5000 CASH FOR YOUR HOME (913) 980-4905 Any condition in the metro area Mark Edmondson - local parishioner http://www.buykcproperty.com Whole Estates Need to sell a home and everything in it? We buy it all at once in as-is condition. Call (816) 444-1950 or send an email to: www.wholeestates.com. Tired of being a landlord? I’ll buy it. Call Mark Edmondson (913) 980-4905 Local parishioner.

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 - One plot at Resurrection Cemetery in Lenexa, ground only. Ground Charity, lot D, section 103, spaces 1 and 2. Current value $5200, asking $4700, including conveyance fee. Call Mike at (913) 291-9134. 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) 656-1801. For sale - One plot at Resurrection Cemetery in Lenexa, Ascension, lot 176, section A, spaces one and two. Asking $900 for both. Negotiable. Call Walt at (731) 6424110 or (731) 227-3260 (cell). HOLY ART Religious items and church supplies Made in Italy http://www.holyart.com

WANTED TO BUY Wanted to buy -Do you have a car or truck that you need to get rid of? If you do, CALL ME! I’m a cash buyer. We’re Holy Trinity parishioners. My name is Mark. (913) 980-4905.

Get Instant Cash Offer on Your Johnson County Home! Skip the Showings Move on Your Schedule Low Fee Structure Get Started Today! www.FullPriceHomeSale.com OFFER CODE KS01

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

Wanting to sell but cannot afford the updates on your home to maximize your profit? - Do not give away the equity you worked hard for! We are a one-ofa-kind real estate team with a contracting business we offer our sellers. Please reach out to Natalie McCarter for more information. (913) 909-1893.

CAREGIVING

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.

Family member with dementia or need help at home? - We specialize in helping seniors live SAFELY at home, where they want to live! We also offer free dementia training and resources for families and caregivers. Benefits of Home - Senior Care, www.Benefitsofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591. Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation for seniors in their home, assisted living or nursing facilities. We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Laurie, Pat or Gary. Caring Christian companion - I’m a retired licensed practical nurse (LPN) with 20-plus years of nursing experience caring for youth to elderly facing medical challenges. I will work for you in-home, assisted living or nursing home. I am qualified to transport to and from physicians or therapy and personal trips. References from past employers are available. I am someone who is caring, honest and dependable. Call Barbara at (913) 645-3779.

Crossword solution

COLUMNISTS

But what have you done?

DAILY READINGS TWETNIETH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME 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 Jgs 2: 11-19 Ps 106: 34-37, 39-40, 43ab, 44 Mt 19: 16-22 Aug. 17 Tuesday Jgs 6: 11-24a Ps 85: 9, 11-14 Mt 19: 23-30 Aug. 18 Wednesday Jgs 9: 6-15 Ps 21: 2-7 Mt 20: 1-16 Aug. 19 John Eudes, priest Jgs 11: 29-39a Ps 40: 5, 7-10 Mt 22: 1-14 Aug. 20 Bernard, abbot, doctor of the church Ru 1: 1, 3-6, 14b-16, 22 Ps 146: 5-10 Mt 22: 34-40 Aug. 21 Pius X, pope Ru 2: 1-3, 8-11; 4: 13-17 Ps 128: 1b-5 Mt 23: 1-12 TWENTY-FIRST WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME Aug. 22 TWENTY-FIRST SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Jos 24: 1-2a, 15-17, 18b Ps 34: 2-3, 16-21 Eph 5: 21-32 Jn 6: 60-69 Aug. 23 Rose of Lima, virgin 1 Thes 1: 1-5, 8b-10 Ps 149: 1b-6a, 9b Mt 23: 13-22 Aug. 24 BARTHOLOMEW, APOSTLE Rv 21: 9b-14 Ps 145: 10-13, 17-18 Jn 1: 45-51 Aug. 25 Louis; Joseph Calasanz, priest 1 Thes 2: 9-13 Ps 139: 7-12b Mt 23: 27-32 Aug. 26 Thursday 1 Thes 3: 7-13 Ps 90: 3-5a, 12-14, 17 Mt 24: 42-51 Aug. 27 Monica 1 Thes 4: 1-8 Ps 97: 1-2b, 5-6, 10-12 Mt 25: 1-13 Aug. 28 Augustine, bishop, doctor of the church 1 Thes 4: 9-11 Ps 98: 1, 7-9 Mt 25: 14-30

AUGUST 13, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

ask myself this question often, especially after reading the morning newspaper. There’s so much worrisome news: the uptick in COVID-19 cases; every sort of crime imaginable (and some even unimaginable); swaths of people lacking shelter, food or medical care; innumerable wars or vicious oppression; and multitudes who have lost hope in things getting better. In light of these serious issues, there’s no shortage of panels being convened to study the problems, statements being issued to acknowledge the needs and letters being written to denounce the injustices. While all these things serve some purpose, they remind me of the following little story: A Native American man attended a Sunday morning worship service. The sermon had little in the way of spiritual food or practical advice and was delivered in a loud voice. Although a faithful Christian, the Native

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.

American man wasn’t impressed. On the way out of church, the minister asked if he liked the sermon. He replied, “High wind, big thunder, no rain!” (Adapted from a story found in Brian Cavanaugh’s “Fresh Packet of Sower’s Seeds: Third Planting.”) That’s how I sometimes feel when, after reading the news, I just wring my hands in worry. All the talking and squawking we do means little if we don’t produce rain, that is, if

we don’t take positive steps to change things for the better. There’s a little-known celebration coming up on Aug. 19 that can motivate people to action. Called World Humanitarian Day, it was founded by the U.N. General Assembly in 2009 in response to the deaths of 22 U.N. aid workers in a bombing in Baghdad six years earlier. One victim was Sergio Vieira de Mello, who worked three decades both to bring relief to victims of war and help people in the First World gain a different perspective on war, “focusing on the innocent human lives who struggled to survive and were caught in conflicts they

had no desire to be a part of.” (Quote is from the nationaltoday.com website.) A humanitarian worker, often at great risk, provides “rain” in the world, “promoting social reforms and human welfare, and [holding] no prejudice with human suffering on grounds of religion . . . gender or territory.” In essence, each Christian is called to be a humanitarian. But with needs so great around the world, the temptation is to sit back and do nothing because we can’t hope to do it all. Perhaps this story can inspire us: One day, a small boy went door to door carrying a little tin can. After knocking at one house, the door was opened by an elderly man who asked the boy what he was doing. “I’m collecting money to help hungry people in the world to eat,” replied the boy. “And how much are you hoping to collect?” asked the man. “A million dollars!” replied the child. Stunned, the man asked, “And do you

think you’re going to collect that all by yourself?” “Oh, no,” said the boy. “My buddy is getting donations on the next block.” Wow, to have this kid’s optimism! Why not celebrate World Humanitarian Day by doing something small? You can: • Donate to a humanitarian organization, like Catholic Relief Services, Catholic Charities USA, Catholic Near East Welfare Association or Catholic Home Missions. • Do some humanitarian work in your community, like volunteer at a homeless shelter or serve as an after-school tutor for underprivileged children. • Teach others about humanity’s needs: about one in nine people go to bed hungry every night; over 65 million people are displaced; some two billion people lack clean water; and millions of children have no access to schools. May God move each of us from simply wishing it would “rain” to really making it pour!

Solemnity reminds us of how the ark foreshadowed Mary

n this solemnity of Mary, I think of my Uncle Nick. Since he was a barber, he was, naturally, my barber when I was growing up. His barbershop was a quiet place, and we had many relaxed one-on-one chats as he cut my hair. I don’t recall that we ever discussed religion, and I’m certain we never talked about what he did in the Navy. So when, some years after Nick died, my cousin Paul made me a gift of his father’s World War II memorabilia, there were some revelations. Black-and-white snapshots of guys standing in front of tents on beaches in Italy where

KEVIN PERROTTA Perrotta is the editor and an author of the “Six Weeks with the Bible” series, teaches part time at Siena Heights University and leads Holy Land pilgrimages. He lives in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

landings had been made gave me an idea of what my uncle had been

involved in. Along with the photos — and here was a real surprise — was a brown scapular: two pieces of brown cloth the size of large postage stamps, joined by strings, for hanging around the neck. To one of the pieces a little picture of Mary and Jesus is attached. Apparently, my uncle had it on him when he wasn’t swimming reconnaissance of the beaches

before the landings. I wonder what was in his mind as he wore this expression of devotion through three dangerous years. It is at least possible to say what the scapular means. Like everything to do with Mary, it communicates the basic message that her life speaks — a message symbolized in an odd way by the first reading of the vigil of Sunday’s solemnity. The Old Testament text describes King David bringing the ark of the covenant into Jerusalem. The ark was an elaborate box containing signs of God’s dealings with the Israelites. It was a tangible focal point of the Israelites’

worship. In a mysterious way, it bore God’s presence. Even more mysteriously, the ark prefigured a greater reality to come. God was going to make himself present in the human world as a human person. The ark foreshadowed the one who was to bear this person, his mother, Mary. She is the ark, the one in whom God has truly become present. Her entire being testifies to her son, Jesus, God with us. This is her message to all of us, whether we are on a field of battle or in a barbershop, in a classroom or a living room or a hospital room. God, Mary declares, is here.

Pope warns against using God, others for selfish aims VATICAN CITY (CNS) — People should seek Jesus out of genuine love, not calculated self-interest, Pope Francis said. “Why do I seek the Lord? What are the motivations for my faith, for our faith?” the pope asked Aug. 1 during his Sunday Angelus address. It is important to reflect on one’s reasons because there can be an “immature” faith driven by an “idolatrous temptation,” that is, the temptation “that drives us

to seek God for our own use, to solve problems,” to turn to him for things “we cannot obtain on our own, for our interests,” he said. “But in this way, faith remains superficial and even, if I may say so, faith remains miraculous: We look for God to feed us and then forget about him when we are satiated,” the pope said, reflecting on the Sunday Gospel reading from St. John in which Jesus sees a crowd looking for him because

people had witnessed the miracle of the multiplication of the loaves. The pope said, “It is right to present our needs to God’s heart, but the Lord, who acts far beyond our expectations, wishes to live with us first of all in a relationship of love. And true love is disinterested, it is free: One does not love to receive a favor in return! This is self-interest, and very often in life we are motivated by self-interest.”

CALENDAR

AUGUST 13, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

BEREAVEMENT MINISTRY Curé of Ars Parish 9405 Mission Rd., Leawood Aug. 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. For more information, call (913) 649-2026.

Kelly and Bob Specht, founders of Carl’s Cause, will hold an evening of healing and hope for teens and older adults. The Spechts will tell their story, and a breakout session will be offered. Professional counselors will offer resources and give concrete ways to foster mental wellness. For more information, visit the website at: www.archkck.org/ family/care-support/catholic-counselors/

DAUGHTERS OF ISABELLA LITTLE FLOWER CIRCLE Christ the King Parish (Yadrich Hall) 5972 S.W. 25th St., Topeka Aug. 22 at 12:45 p.m.

SISTERS, SERVANTS OF MARY 26TH ANNUAL GOLF CLASSIC Painted Hills Golf Course 7101 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kansas Sept. 10

A rosary will be recited, followed by a business meeting and social time. Social distancing and masks will be required. If anyone knows of a member of the Daughters of Isabella in need of the circle’s prayers, call Bobbie Graff Hendrixson at (785) 2710145. If you are interested in or would like more information about the Daughters of Isabella, call Cindy Keen at (785) 228-9863.

PICNIC AND BAZAAR St. Columbkille Parish 13311 Hwy. 16, Blaine Aug. 28 from 5:15 - 7:30 p.m.

Join us for our annual picnic and bazaar. A roast beef and ham loaf dinner will be served. The cost is: $10 for adults; $5 for kids ages 4 - 11; and kids under 3 eat for free. Carryouts are available. There will also be cash bingo, a silent auction, quilt raffle, cakewalk, bounce houses and other games.

AN EVENING OF HEALING AND HOPE St. Ann Parish 7231 Mission Rd., Prairie Village Aug. 31 at 7 p.m.

Help the Sisters raise money to assist in their mission to care for the sick. Registration fees, other sponsorship opportunities and more information are online at: www. sisterservantsgolfouting.com. For questions, call Judy Walberg at (913) 961-5677 or email questions to: SSMgolfouting@ gmail.com. Credit cards are accepted the day of the event. Registration is from 10:45 a.m. to noon; lunch is at 11:15 a.m. Sisters’ putting contest is at noon, and the shotgun start is at 12:30 p.m.

C.O.R.E. GOLF EVENT Nicklaus Golf Club at LionsGate 14225 Dearborn St., Overland Park Sept. 20 at 10:30 a.m.

Come together with Catholics from across state lines to show support for the clergy of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and the Diocese of Kansas City - St. Joseph. The event is sponsored by C.O.R.E. and the Serra Club of Metro KC. Enjoy a round of golf, barbecue, drinks and prizes. Go online to: www.CelebrateOurReligious. org to register and see a schedule of events.

Have You Ever Considered Becoming a Deacon?

he archdiocesan office of the permanent diaconate is hosting a series of information nights for those interested in learning more about the diaconate. All information nights begin at 7 p.m.

Dates and locations:

Sept. 1

Savior Pastoral Center, 12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kansas (Spanish language interpreter available)

Sept. 13

Christ the King Parish, 5973 S.W. 25th St., Topeka (ASL interpreter available)

Sept. 23

Holy Cross Parish, 8311 W. 93rd St., Overland Park (Spanish language interpreter available)

Sept. 28

Immaculate Conception-St. Joseph Parish, 711 N. 5th St., Leavenworth

Oct. 12

Savior Pastoral Center, 12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kansas *Attendance at an information night is required for those who intend to apply to the diaconate program this year. Spouses are strongly encouraged to attend. For information, contact Leon Suprenant, co-director of the office of the permanent diaconate, by email at: leons@archkck.org; call (913) 647-0358; or visit the website at: archkck.org/diaconate.

LIFE AND HOPE BANQUET Overland Park Convention Center 6000 College Blvd., Overland Park Sept. 2 at 7 p.m.

Come celebrate the Wyandotte and Olathe Pregnancy Clinics. Abby Johnson will be the featured speaker. Register online at: www.LifeAndHopeBanquet.com. The registration fee is $100 per person, with $50 of the fee being tax deductible.

CATHOLIC WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY Holy Trinity Parish (Father Quigley Center) Thursday mornings beginning Sept. 23 from 9:30 - 11 a.m.

We will be studying the Gospel of Mark. Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program is offered for infants through 12 years of age while we gather for our Bible study. Infants are also welcome to stay with moms in their discussion group. Teens ages 13 - 15 are invited to our junior Bible study. Registration is due by Aug. 26. For more information, contact Ellen Jones at (913) 957-88009, Theresa Gordzica at (785) 8430283 or Jenny Kropf at (913) 219 8528, or head to our new website at: www.womens biblestudykc.com. Come meet new friends and discover what blessings God’s word has in store for you this year.

VITAE FOUNDATION PRO-LIFE EVENT Sheraton Overland Park Hotel at the Convention Center 6100 College Blvd., Overland Park Sept. 24 at 6:30 p.m.

Vitae Foundation’s pro-life event will feature speaker Mitch Holthus, the voice of the Kansas City Chiefs, who announced the last two Super Bowls. There will be dinner and a program at 7 p.m. The cost is $100

15 ($70 is tax deductible). The registration deadline is Sept. 17. For questions, contact Eddie Mulholland at (573) 634-4316. To register online, go to: vitaefoundation.org, click on “Events,” then on “Kansas City Pro-Life Event” and scroll down to the registration form.

WOMEN’S RETREAT WITH SONJA CORBITT Mother Teresa Parish 2014 N.W. 46th St., Topeka Sept. 25 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

This is a one-day retreat with Sonja Corbitt, the “Bible Study Evangelista.” The retreat will begin with a rosary. There will be talks and time for fellowship. Beverages, light snacks and lunch will be provided. There is no cost, but a freewill offering will be accepted. In order to assure that we have enough food, registration is required online at: www.mtcctopeka.org.

SPECIAL-NEEDS MINISTRY NEEDS VOLUNTEERS

The special-needs ministry in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas needs volunteers, 14 years of age and older, to help restart BREATHE — a respite care program. This program provides a break from caregiving to families who have a child with a disability. The program is held at Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park, usually on the third Saturday of each month from 4 - 8 p.m. We are planning to offer our first session in the fall. Volunteers “buddy” with a child with a disability for an evening of recreation and leisure activities. COVID protocols will be followed. To learn more or to register, go online to: www.archkck.org/ special-needs or send an email to: jruoff@ archkck.org

LOCAL NEWS

AUGUST 13, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

NEW TWIST ON FARM TO TABLE Family business donates produce to area food pantries By Therese Horvat Special to The Leaven

LEAVEN PHOTO BY THERESE HORVAT

Harvesting cucumbers, from left, are: Anna, Larry and Luke Broxterman. Last year, the Broxtermans started a business called The Planter’s Table with the intention of committing 50% of the family’s garden produce to area food pantries.

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ONNER SPRINGS — The simple yet profound wisdom of St. Teresa of Calcutta has shaped the mission and become the motto of The Planter’s Table, a business established here last year by Jane and Larry Broxterman, with the intention of committing 50% of the family’s garden produce to area food pantries. In April and May alone, the Broxtermans donated over 90% of their first crops to three different pantries. That amounted to 140 pounds of triple hand-washed lettuce and kale, and several gallons of spinach, beets, carrots and herbs. After giving away the last of their lettuce, they had to purchase some from the grocery store for a family meal! The Broxtermans have had a vegetable garden since moving to Bonner Springs in 2007. In the past, they would eat, can and freeze the produce. Jane, a primary care physician at the University of Kansas Medical Center, shared their surplus with co-workers. Last year, the family also donated vegetables to the Grow-a-Row program at their parish, Holy Angels in Basehor, for distribution to the Leavenworth Interfaith Community of Hope. All the while, the words attributed to St. Teresa of Calcutta kept ringing in their ears and hearts: “We can do no great things, only small things with great love,” and “If you can’t feed a hundred people, then feed just one.” The family, moreover, had come through the relatively recent experience of Jane’s recovery from an aggressive cancer, and they saw the devastating impact COVID-19 was having on people’s lives. They felt blessed, and they wanted to do more. “We realized that we have the ability, the means, the space and the knowledge to do more,” said Larry. “We kept asking ourselves,” said Jane, “‘What is the need? Where can we give whatever we have? How can we change and do better?’” The Broxtermans spent the fall and winter of 2020 figuring out ways to accomplish this. The Planter’s Table evolved as the answer to their questions and the response to St. Teresa of Calcutta’s philosophy of Christian charity. The name of their business reflects the couple’s desire to start small — filling one table at a time from their bounty.

WE KEPT ASKING OURSELVES, ‘WHAT IS THE NEED? WHERE CAN WE GIVE WHATEVER WE HAVE? HOW CAN WE CHANGE AND DO BETTER?’ JANE BROXTERMAN PARISHIONER OF HOLY ANGELS, BASEHOR

Larry focused on improving the quality of the soil and maximizing productivity of the garden. Last fall, the 3,400-square-foot area had very few earthworms, typically indicators of healthy soil. By layering compost and straw, Larry shaped natural raised beds without edging. This no-till method formed walking paths between the beds that help prevent compacting of the soil.

This year, the beds are teeming with earthworms. The garden is likewise free of chemicals. As Larry was growing seedlings for their garden, the couple realized they could grow more, sell the plants and reinvest proceeds into their efforts. They took pre-orders and grew 230 tomato plants and 99 pepper plants. Without a greenhouse, Jane recalled, laughing, the plants were everywhere, including the laundry room that served as a hothouse with a space heater and heat lamps. Companion planting of different vegetables, herbs and flowers has increased yield. At the base of tomato plants, Larry planted basil, cilantro and marigolds, the latter to ward off pesky insects. Beets and onions went in rows next to one another. Radishes popped up at the ends of a row just in time for cucumbers to take off in the same row. Because they want to source the pantries well, the Broxtermans have limited their donations to three organizations: Basehor-Linwood Assistance Services, Basehor; Cross-Lines Community Outreach, Kansas City, Kansas;

and The Good Shepherd Thrift Shop & Food Bank, Tonganoxie. They work with the pantries to identify their needs, preferred packaging and the best times to drop off the produce. The entire family participates in The Planter’s Table. This includes: Adam, 16; Luke, 14; Lydia, 11; and Anna, 8. They assist with layering compost and straw, planting seeds and seedlings, reaping the harvest, washing vegetables and delivering the produce. They take satisfaction in knowing that they can be helpful and make a difference in people’s lives. Onions, tomatoes, peppers, sweet potatoes and corn have been among the most recent produce harvested. Building a greenhouse from old, recycled windows is on the autumn agenda. Larry also anticipates they will expand the garden space. Other than a schematic that designates locations of the plantings, the family doesn’t have an exact plan for The Planter’s Table, said Jane. At the same time, however, she and Larry agree that God has a plan for them — and that it continues to unfold.

Family Owned and Proudly Serving Our Community Since 1929 During this pandemic, we are still able to make arrangements and conduct services to honor your loved one in a meaningful way. Arrangements and Advanced Planning can be completed virtually or in the comfort of your own home. We are here to guide you every step of the way. 913-371-1404 | 340 N. 6th St. Kansas City, KS

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