08-15-08 Vol. 30 No. 4

WWW.THELEAVEN.COM

NEWSPAPER OF THE ARCHDIOCESE OF KANSAS CITY IN KANSAS

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VOL. 30, NO. 4 AUGUST 15, 2008

WORLD YOUTH DAY 2008

KANSANS WELCOMED DOWN UNDER STORY BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD

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YDNEY, Australia — The town of “ Wahroonga” lived up to its name — abor iginal for “our home” — when Catholics there opened their hearts and homes to more than 40 young visitors from the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas this past month.

The suburb on the Upper North Shore of Sydney, Australia, is home to Holy Name Catholic Church, one of the parish-

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COVER PHOTO BY RICK PETERSON

es that volunteered, as par t of World Youth Day’s innovative Home-Stay program, to house pilgrims from all over the world in parishioners’ homes.

Holy Name pastor Fat her Stephen Hume is proud of the fact that his parish was the first in Sydney to meet its HomeStay quota. Ninety-two families hosted 130 pilgrims, including 44 from Kansas.

See “Host families” on page 11

Editor’s note: As Americans across the country watch the “Redeem Team” try to improve U.S. hoopsters’ image at the Olympics, it’s refreshing to hear nothing but good things back from a pilgrimage of youth and young adults to World Youth Day in Australia. What’s unusual about The Leaven’s WYD coverage this year, however, is that our lead story comes straight from the horse’s mouth, so to speak. To meet the Catholics of Holy Name Church in Wahroonga, Australia, and to hear what they have to say about their Kansas guests, read on.

LOCAL NEWS

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THE LEAVEN • AUGUST 15, 2008

AUGUST 15, 2008

The motherhouse of the Ursuline Sisters in Paola is up for sale, as the nuns await final approval from the Vatican on their proposed merger with an Ursuline community in Kentucky.

around January 2009.

Currently, the motherhouse in Paola is up for sale, with plans for it to be completely closed by May 2010.

“For all of us, it’s a sad thing to be closing our motherhouse and leaving our friends in Paola and the archdiocese,” said Sister Kathleen. “But we’re also really positive about the merger and the new relationships it will bring with our community, as well as the new opportunities for ministry.”

The Ursuline Sisters of Mount Maple currently number 160 members and minister in a variety of states and in Chile.

Presuming the merger goes through, however, not all of the Paola Sisters will immediately relocate to the new motherhouse and community.

“A number of our Sisters will remain to minister in the archdiocese, even though our motherhouse will be in Kentucky,” said Sister Kathleen.

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THE LEAVEN

SECOND FRONT PAGE

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BACK TO SCHOOL

Ursulines prepare for merger PAOLA — After serving the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas for more than a century, the Ursuline Sisters of Paola might soon be calling Kentucky home.

The religious community of 23 Sisters in Paola requested a merger with the Ursuline Sisters of Maple Mount, Ky., in February, and the Kentucky religious community unanimously approved the merger on July 18. Now, the merger travels to Rome for final approval by the Congregation for the Institutes of Consecrated Life and the Societies of Apostolic Life.

“Sister Michele Morek, the community leader in Kentucky, came out here with several other Sisters in late July and we worked together on gathering all the materials that need to be sent to Rome,” said Sister Kathleen Condry, superior of the Ursuline Sisters in Paola.

The Ursuline Sisters foresee approval and the merger process nearing completion

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Ground blessed, broken at Seneca for new $3.7 million school

ENECA — The last time members of Sts. Peter and Paul Parish here tried to build a school, an uninvited guest arrived and changed their plans.

On May 17, 1896, a twister plowed through the parish property and damaged the church. Bricks intended for the school were commandeered to fix the church, the and Story and photos by school, begun in 1895, wasn’t finished until 1898.

Fortunately, the overcast skies stayed calm on Aug. 9 when parishioners gathered for the blessing and groundbreaking of the new Sts. Peter and Paul School site by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann.

The $3.7 million building will be completed, it is hoped, in time for the vigil of the solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul on June 28, 2009 — also the 140th anniversary of the parish.

During the ceremony, the archbishop referred to Psalm 127.

“We know the familiar words of the psalmist, ‘If the Lord does not build the house, in vain do its builders labor,’” said the archbishop.

“Whenever we look to the interest of our neighbor and the community, and serve them, we are in a sense God’s own co-workers,” he said. “Let us pray for his help through this celebration, brothers and sisters, that God will bring this construction to a successful completion, and that his protection will keep those who work on it safe from all injury.”

At the site blessing that preceded the Mass, one student representing each grade in the school had the opportunity to join the archbishop in a ceremonial turning of the sod.

Members of the parish building committee, in turn, also spaded the earth.

Archbishop Naumann was the main celebrant and homilist at the Mass, which followed the site blessing and groundbreaking. The concelebrants were: Father Michael Koller, the pastor; Father Arul Carasala, pastor of St. Bede Parish in Kelly and St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Onaga; and Father Felix Molunmeli, of St. Mary Parish in St. Benedict.

The former convent for women religious teaching at the school, built in 1907, was torn down in early June, and the old grade school was torn down in the middle of July. Both were parish landmarks that held many memories for generations of parishioners, but it was time for both to go, said the pastor. “[The old grade school] had deteriorated to the point it was not costeffective to either bring it up to code or save the building,” said Father Koller.

Todd Leonard, principal, holds a salvaged brick from the 1898 that was engraved to commemorate the older building and to celebrate the construction of the new.

JOE BOLLIG

“A structural engineering analysis of the building had been done, and it said we had about 10 years left before it would have to be condemned. . . . We researched every possible means to save that building, but it was too costprohibitive.”

In addition to needing a more structurally sound building, the parish also needs more and better spaces. For example, funeral dinners have had to be held in the church basement, which is too small and provides limited access to the elderly or handicapped.

The new, one-story, rectangular, 27,267-square-foot building will feature seven classrooms, one each for children in preschool, kindergarten, and grades one to five. It will also feature a parish hall/school cafeteria, computer lab, library, gymnasium, kitchen, offices, teacher workroom, eucharistic adoration chapel, storage and locker rooms. The locker rooms will be built as FEMA-standard storm shelters.

“The old building lasted over 100 years, and it was time to build a new building to meet the needs of the next 100 years,” said Todd Leonard, principal. “Our teachers and students will have upgraded classrooms, [as well as] a new library and computer lab.

Our sports teams will be able to play home games. . . . The whole parish and school community is looking forward to the new facility.”

The old school will not be forgotten, however. The roof of its bell tower was salvaged and will be incorporated into the entrance of the new school.

“That was the identity of the build-

The roof of the bell tower from the old school was salvaged for inclusion into the new school’s structure.

Father Michael Koller uses a ceremonial shovel to break ground on the new school. ing,” said Father Koller. “So we thought we could take something from the old building and incorporate it into the new to show that continuity.”

One side of the building will be faced with brick, and the other three will have brick and metal facing. The architect was Emig and Associates Architects of Emporia, and the chief contractor is AHRS Construction of Bern.

The parish also has plans to improve the former Sts. Peter and Paul High School, which was built in 1950 and served as

the high school until 1974, when the school closed. Now called the junior high building, it houses grades six, seven and eight.

Projected enrollment for the coming school year is approximately 160.

For now, students will be use temporary classrooms in existing parish buildings: the mission building, “the barn” (a gymnasium with basement cafeteria), and the church basement.

LOCAL NEWS

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THE LEAVEN

• AUGUST 18, 2008

Sisters, Servants promote first-ever fundraiser

AUGUST 15, 2008

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LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN

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Virtus sessions Protecting God’s Children for Adults

By KARA HANSEN Leaven staff

DATE LEAWOOD — There are a number of parishioners in Johnson County — particularly the younger ones — who have never met or seen a nun.

Such is the unfortunate reality of vocations to religious life in our times.

Lately, however, those rarely sighted individuals have been making regular appearances in Johnson County.

Each weekend, one member of the Sisters, Servants of Mary visits a parish to speak about the order’s mission and to help garner support for their upcoming, first-ever, fundraising gala night.

“In general, I think the speaking engagements are really profitable for the parishes and community because people get to learn about our mission of caring for the sick and how we can be of help to them,” said Sister Leticia Rodriguez, SM, who spoke recently at Sacred Heart Parish in Shawnee.

Event committee co-chair Mary Sullivan, a member of the Church of the Nativity in Leawood, hopes the upcoming gala will only be the first of many.

“It’s an opportunity for people to see what beautiful women the Sisters are, and to learn about their mission,” said Sullivan. “The plan is to have a gala event for the Sisters every year in the fall.”

The Sisters, Servants of Mary will be holding their gala fundraiser on Oct. 4 at Church of the Ascension in Overland Park. The event will be called “Serving From the Heart.”

The theme, said Sullivan, really says it all.

“Serving from the heart really encompasses what the Sisters do each day for each other and the community,” she said.

The evening will begin at 6:30 p.m. with cocktails and a silent auction. A five-course dinner will be served at 7:15 p.m., provided by PB&J Restaurants, and a live auction will follow at 8.

Tickets are $125 a person or $1,000 for a table of eight. An open bar is included in the price. John Holt of WDAFTV 4 News will be the emcee for the evening and the Nigro Brothers will serve as auctioneers. All decorations will be provided by Nell Hill’s home store.

“We’re planning for about 600 people and have already sold 20 tables be-

TIME

LOCATION

10 a.m.

9 a.m.

9 a.m.

6 p.m.

9 a.m.

St. Agnes (Roeland Park) Sacred Heart (Emporia) Atchison Catholic (Atchison) St. John the Evangelist (Lawrence) Most Pure Heart of Mary (Topeka)

August 16 23 23 26 30

September 4 4 8 10 13 15 17 22 22 29

8:30 a.m.

6:30 p.m.

6 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

9 a.m.

6 p.m.

6 p.m.

6 p.m.

6 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

Church of the Nativity (Leawood) St. Patrick (Kansas City, Kan.) Sacred Heart (Shawnee) Holy Trinity (Paola) Immaculata High School (Leavenworth) Prince of Peace (Olathe) Corpus Christi (Lawrence) Sacred Heart (Shawnee) Mater Dei (Topeka) St. Ann (Prairie Village)

8 a.m.

6:30 p.m.

Mother Teresa Catholic Church (Topeka) Good Shepherd (Shawnee)

October 4 7

November 10 Leaven photos by Susan McSpadden

Sister Fabiola Fernandez, SM, visits with Kelsey Schenck at Sacred Heart Parish in Shawnee on Aug. 3.

Sisters Leticia Rodriguez (in white habit) and Fabiola Fernandez visit with the Kolich family (Dana, Jake, Jerry and Emma) after Mass.

6 p.m.

Preregistration is required. To register online, go to www.virtus.org, select registration, and begin the registration process by selecting Kansas City in Kansas (Archdiocese). Follow the remaining prompts.

Msgr. Tank on KEXS 1090 OVERLAND PARK — Msgr. Thomas Tank, pastor of Church of the Ascension here and vicar general for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, will be on Catholic radio KEXS 1090 AM on Aug.16 at noon.

Msgr. Tank and Ascension parishioner Phil Msgr. Tank Hernandez will be interviewed about the Christ Renews His Parish initiative. This ministry of Church of the Ascension will be the focus for the inaugural show of “Kingdom Come,” a program produced by the archdiocesan department of parish ministries to highlight the work of God in the community.

fore invitations have gone out,” said Sullivan.

Attendees will have the opportunity to meet the Sisters at the event, as at least one will be seated at each table throughout the evening to provide opportunities for interaction.

“It’s a unique way to expose people to their ministry, love and care for people,” said Sullivan.

For more information or to order tickets, contact Mary Sullivan at (913) 897-5249, or by e-mail at: mary@ aminobros.com; or call John Bartolac at (913) 339-6825, or send an e-mail to him at: jbartolac@sbcglobal.net.

PACKIN’ IT IN

Sacred Heart (Shawnee)

Parishioner Dennis Dennihan helps load and organize donations at the Fair Share Food Drive, held at Church of the Nativity in Leawood on July 20. Nativity holds three food drives a year and delivers the donations to the Catholic Charities food pantry and emergency assistance centers serving Wyandotte County. This particular drive filled a 22-foot truck with 766 bags of food, toiletries and baby-related items.

University of Saint Mary is named ‘Best Midwestern College’ LEAVENWORTH — The University of Saint Mary here has been named a “Best Midwestern College” for the fourth consecutive year by the Princeton Review. USM is one of 159 schools in the Midwest region receiving the designation.

The Princeton Review surveys more than 120,000 college students and examines academic standards each year. For 2009, it chose 368 colleges nationwide for its “Best College” list.

In addition to being named a 2009 “Best Midwestern College,” Saint Mary was the only college in the Kansas City area named to The Princeton Review’s “America’s Best Value Colleges, 2008 edition” for two straight years (a ranking re-

leased in the spring). Colleges in the guidebook are designated as one of the best overall bargains — based on cost and financial aid — among the most academically outstanding colleges in the nation.

USM is one of only 165 schools nationwide named to the “Best Value Colleges” list.

The Princeton Review survey asks students to rate their own schools on several issues — from the accessibility of their professors to quality of the campus food — and answer questions about themselves, their fellow students, and their campus life. Comments from surveyed students appear in each Princeton Review college profile.

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Community band forming LEAVENWORTH — The University of Saint Mary Community Band here will begin its fall semester rehearsal schedule on Aug. 25.

The band includes volunteers from anywhere in the Leavenworth area.

Participation is free, and musicians — professional and amateurs, high school, college or beyond — are not required to audition.

Area string players who are interested in performing with university ensembles are also invited to contact USM at the phone number below.

Rehearsals for the band begin on Aug. 25 from 6 to 8 p.m in Mead Hall Walnut Room. But latecomers are encouraged to join on any Monday in September.

For more information, call Freda Proctor at (913) 758-6320.

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LOCAL NEWS

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ANNIVERSARIES Judy (Weishaar) and John Wagner, members of Christ the King Parish, Topeka, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary with a family gathering on Aug. 24. The couple was married on Aug. 30, 1958, at St. Joseph Church, Nortonville. Their children and their spouses are: Lonny and Cindy Wagner; Michelle and John Perez; Todd and Sheila Wagner; and Chris Wagner.

They also have nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Marilyn (Shaffer) and Fred McElhenie, members of Corpus Christi P a r i s h , Lawrence, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 16. The couple was married at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Leavenworth on Aug. 16, 1958. They celebrated their anniversary earlier in the summer with a family gathering and picnic. Their children are: Timothy, of Kansas City, Kan.; Erin, of Oak Harbor, Wash.; and Patrick, of Sauk City, Wis. They also have five grandchildren.

Phyllis (Fowler) and John Birzer, members of Sacred Heart Parish, Ottawa, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary with a 5:30 p.m. Mass of thanksgiving at the church on Aug. 16. The couple was married on Aug. 16, 1948, at Sacred Heart Church in Ottawa. Family and friends may send their greetings to the couple at: 1380 Labette Road, Ottawa, KS 66067. Their children and their spouses are: John Birzer, Ottawa; Lisa and Martin Goedken, Conception Junction, Mo.; Bibiana and Kenneth Zweig, Topeka; Deidre Birzer, Topeka; Celia and Robert Jardon, Leavenworth; and Franz Birzer, Ottawa. They also have 15 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

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THE LEAVEN

Marianne (Brown) and Melvin Routh, members of St. Patrick Parish, Kansas City , Kan., celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a dinner and reception hosted by their children and grandchildren at the Painted Hills Golf Course banquet hall on June 7. The couple was married on Aug. 23, 1958, at St. John the Evangelist Church in Kansas City , Kan. Their children and their spouses are: Sheryl Dollar, Kansas City, Kan.; Lynda Routh, Everett, Wash.; Melvin and Brenda Routh, Belton, Mo.; and Cindi Routh and Rick Flynn, Pine, Colo. They have 6 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

• AUGUST 15, 2008

Teresa (Ronsse) and Mark Heald, members of Holy Name Parish, Topeka, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on Aug. 10 with a Mass at Holy Name Church, Topeka. The couple was married on Aug. 7, 1948, at Immaculate Conception Church in St. Marys. Their children and their spouses are: Connie (deceased) and Roger Rake; and Tom and Mary Heald. They also have four grandchildren.

ANNIVERSARY POLICY

The Leaven only prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th anniversary notices. Announcements are due by 5 p.m. eight days (Thursday) before the desired publication date.

Announcements must be typed. They are for parishioners of Catholic parishes in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. Information to include: • The couple’s names; their parish; the date they were married; church and city where they were married; what they are doing to celebrate; date of the celebration; names of children (if desired); number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; photo.

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

Remember your recently deceased loved one by attending a Memorial Mass Saturday Sept.6, 2008 9 a.m.

Holy Redeemer Chapel, Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 126th Parallel Parkway

CATHOLIC CEMETERIES 913-371-4040 www.catholiccemeterieskc.org

Wyandotte County Mt. Calvary, Kansas City, Kan. St. John, Kansas City, Kan. Gate of Heaven, Kansas City, Kan.

Johnson County Resurrection, Lenexa, Kan. St. Joseph, Shawnee, Kan. St. John, Lenexa, Kan. Mt. Calvary, Olathe, Kan.

For persons recently buried or entombed at one of our Catholic Cemeteries in Wyandotte and Johnson Counties MT CALVARY - KCK ANGELES D. AIZPURUA MARY H. ALIEKSAITES RUAN A. ALLMAN ALMA M. BERRY MILDRED J. CREACH CONSTANCE M. DAVIDSON CHRISTINE M. DELICH BERNICE FISCHER FRANK J. FRANIUK JOSEPH GONZALES MARGARET L. HACKLEY CURTIS S. HOOVER AURORA JAMIE WILLIAM JENKINS FRANK E. LEET JR. EVELYN M. LUSTIG MARY R. MADRIGAL HELEN MAREK FERMIN MEDINA GENEVIENE M. MIECZKOWSKI DORIS B. MONLEY HELEN M. PATTI BABY PEREZ IVAN J. PIKE MARY JO PODREBARAC ANNA D. PORTER JAMES P. PURINTON ANGEL REVOLLAR MIGUEL L. REYES SR BELINDA S. ROBERTSON MICHAEL P. RODRIGUEZ CELIA ROCHA JAMES E. ROPER WILLIAM O. RUSKEY RITA RYAN FRANCISCA O. SANTOS ISAAC SAVINO SAUCEDO ROSE M. SHONDELL LAWRENCE K. SLOAN CLAIRE ROSE SUPER DOROTHY VARDYAN JOHN G. VIENE RESURRECTION CHARLES A. ABBICK JR. BETTY J. BARTKOSKI FLOYD L. BASTON TINA M. BLACKWELL HERBERT J. CAST

JUDITH G. COULDRY ARLENE A. CUNNINGHAM GLESNA M. DEGNAN ROBERT G. ENDRES NOAH JAMES GATTIS PHILLIP R. GODFREY JEANETTE T. GOODE ANN M. HALPIN CATHERINE K. JENNINGS CAROL D. KASKIE COLLETTE J. KERR ALICE V. KOHL ROBERT M. KRAMER MARTHA M. LAWLER HOWARD L. LETSCH JAMES A. LORENZ LEROY F. MAGEE JERRY J. MANN EDWARD G. MARUSIAK HENRY F. NAUERT BERNITA H. POLLOCK DAVID T. RIGGS EDWARD L. SANDERS KOBE MICHAEL SUMNER MARY L. VANDEBERGHE CAROL M. VOGT WALTER J. WALKOWICZ SUSAN WITT MARY F. YURAN ST JOHN - LENEXA ANNA K. HOEHN DOROTHEA B. SCHWEIGER ROSE M. VAUGHN ST JOSEPH MONA E. HAHNER IRENE M. ROCKERS GENEVA SOETAERT MT CALVARY OLATHE FRANCIS E. WOLTKAMP GATE OF HEAVEN DONALD EVANS ANGEL FIELDS TRACY RIGGS JOHN B. ZAWATZKI

WORLD YOUTH DAY 2008

‘A LITTLE PREVIEW OF

HEAVEN’

Seminarians revel in sights, sounds of World Youth Day

By JOE BOLLIG Leaven staff KANSAS CITY, Kan. — It took a trip to World Youth Day in Australia for seminarian Anthony Saiki to realize that the church was not just big, but REALLY big.

“The biggest thing about World Youth Day [for me] is that it opened my eyes to how big the church really is,” said Saiki, from St. Paul Parish in Olathe and a first-year philosophy student at Cardinal Glennon College in St. Louis.

“As a seminarian, it’s easy to forget that the church is bigger than your parish and your seminary,” he continued. “Once I’m [ordained], I’ll be a priest for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, but I’ll also be a priest for the universal church.”

World Youth Day 2008 in Australia was the experience of a lifetime for archdiocesan seminarians Saiki, Barry Clayton, Nathan Haverland, and Scott Wallisch. Together, with archdiocesan vocation director Father Mitchel Zimmerman, they witnessed not only the size of the church, but its diversity and vigor.

Culture club One of the most exciting aspects of World Youth Day, said the pilgrims, was being caught up in the multicultural swirl of tens of thousands of Catholics from all parts of the world.

“It was intense,” said Saiki. “We marched to events with groups from Italy, Spain, France, Africa, South America, and other places. I’d ask them where they were from, and they’d [reply], ‘I don’t speak English.’

It was the first time I’ve experienced that.”

“People spoke different languages and had different customs, and they wore different clothes, but they worshipped the same Christ,” he continued. “It was powerful to experience that universality and live up to the name ‘Catholic.’”

Like “fusion cooking,” the experience of unlikely cultural blends gave World Youth Day a unique flavor, according to Barry Clayton, from St. Pius X Parish in Mission and a thirdyear theology student at KenrickGlennon Seminary in St. Louis.

“We got to visit with some people from Spain, and during the vigil before the final Mass with the Holy Father we met a group from Papua New Guinea,” said Clayton. “They were very enthusiastic. I recall that they stayed up all night, singing and clapping their hands, and creating a beautiful tone of voices. It was difficult to understand, except for a few words like ‘hosanna,’ ‘alleluia,’ and ‘Maria.’” “[It was like] a little preview of heaven, with the nations gathered with great enthusiasm and genuine love for the church,” said Father

Zimmerman. “Especially when we were walking to and from the events, it seemed like there was an endless parade of people. It felt like ‘The Saints Go Marching In’ to heaven.”

Aussie encounters Home base for Father Zimmerman, the four archdiocesan seminarians, and the other 39 pilgrims from Kansas, was Holy Name Parish in Wahroonga, a northern suburb of Sydney.

Through staying with parish families, walking the streets of Sydney, and mingling with other pilgrims, the Kansans had many close encounters of the Australian kind.

“I think they were surprised at how friendly the Catholics were, especially from America,” said Scott Wallisch, now at the St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center in Lawrence and a third-year theology student at Mundelein Seminary in Chicago. “But I think they saw a lot of people embrace their faith in a way they haven’t seen for a long time. I think it inspired [the Australians].”

The host families with whom they stayed were warm and welcoming, and the “Sydneysiders,” as residents of the city are called, were caught up in the glow of World Youth Day, said Nathan Haverland, a member of St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kan., and a second-year student in pretheology at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary.

“Sydney was initially very hesitant about hosting that many youths in their city, but I got to see the Sydneysiders fall in love with the pilgrims,” said Haverland. “I could see at the end that they were sad [we] were leaving, because [the pilgrims] brought a joy and happiness to the streets that the city hadn’t seen.”

“The crime rate hit new lows for a while despite the influx of people,” he continued, “and I could see them get exited about the events. Even the protesters couldn’t help but get involved in the activities.”

And about those Aussie accents . . .

“They think we have funny accents, too,” said Haverland.

LIGHT IT UP

Leaven photo by Elaina Generally

Archdiocesan seminarian Scott Wallisch takes part in a candlelight vigil at World Youth Day in Sydney, Australia.

Precious moments During their six days in Australia, the pilgrims spent the mornings in catechetical sessions, and the afternoons and evenings at special events and activities. These great experiences became special memories for the seminarians.

“One of my favorite moments after the final Mass with the pope was the three-hour walk back to the train station,” said Wallisch. “Typically in slow crowds people get impatient, but [the pilgrims] were prayerfully quiet or still had their joy and excitement.”

All the seminarians were inspired by the vigil before the papal Mass, said Haverland.

“We spent two hours in prayer with the pope and the bishops, and more than 250,000 people,” he said. “We prayed for the gifts of the Holy Spirit, and we spent moments of prayer in

adoration, in complete silence, with candles lit as far as you could see.”

Like the seminarians, Father Zimmerman was especially moved by the living Stations of the Cross.

“I felt more moved than when I saw Mel Gibson’s movie (‘The Passion of the Christ’),” he said. “I had not been to a living Stations like that, and it was stunning to see the effort and thought that went into that.”

See you in Madrid This was the third World Youth Day for Father Zimmerman, who went to Denver in 1993, and Paris in 1997. It was the second for Clayton, went to Cologne in 2005. For the three other seminarians, it was their first.

“As someone who was looking at the priesthood, [World Youth Day] had a big impact on me,” said Father Zimmerman. “I hope it increased [the seminarians’] desire to become priests.”

The next World Youth Day will be in Madrid, Spain, in 2011. Some of the Sydney pilgrims are already thinking about going.

“I sure hope so,” said Haverland.

“Maybe the second time around I’ll get even more out of it, since I know the ‘tricks of the trade’ of being a pilgrim.”

GIVE IT UP FOR THE POPE

Leaven photo by Elaina Generally

Archdiocesan seminarian Anthony Saiki (far left) cheers on Pope Benedict XVI along with Sarah Gamber, St. Paul, Olathe; Jessica Peterson, St. Patrick, Kansas City, Kan.; Rocio Luna, All Saints, Kansas City, Kan.; and Father Mitchel Zimmerman, archdiocesan vocation director.

LET US PRAY

The Kansas pilgrims join Holy Name parishioners in the Lord’s Prayer during Mass at the Wahroonga church, which hosted 44 people from the archdiocese.

PILGRIMS’

STAR TREATMENT

High fives were the order of the day, as a group of nuns greets the Kansas youth at the opening ceremony on July 15.

PRIDE Though small in number, the contingent from the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas made up for it in enthusiasm at World Youth Day 2008 in Sydney, Australia.

PHOTOS BY ELAINA GENERALLY

IN THE MOMENT

Kelly Ann Zachariasen of Mother Teresa Parish in Topeka exudes boundless energy with her friends at one of the early World Youth Day activities at the Royal Randwick Racecourse in Sydney.

COME TOGETHER

Flags representing 170 nations from all over the world were a constant reminder to WYD participants of the universality of their Catholic faith.

FRAMED

Katrina Oelke of Mother Teresa Parish in Topeka tries to get a good photo of Pope Benedict XVI as he addresses the crowds on July 19 from aboard a cruise ship anchored in Sydney Harbor.

NIGHTFALL

The Kansas flag flies proudly over Royal Randwick Racecourse in Sydney, Australia, the night before the closing Mass.

B16

Pope Benedict XVI waves to the tens of thousands gathered for the final Mass on July 20 under the watchful eye of Vatican security.

CHANGE OF HEART

Archdiocesan seminarian Nathan Haverland found the Australians impressed with the influx of pilgrims to their shores for WYD from July 15-20.

WORLD YOUTH DAY 2008

WORLD YOUTH DAY 2008

YOUTH FIND THE ‘FIRE’ AT WORLD YOUTH DAY KARA HANSEN Leaven staff KANSAS CITY, Kan. — When someone leaves the blazing heat of mid-July in Kansas for a vacation to a cooler spot, it’s easy to come back refreshed.

But a group of teens from the archdiocese came back from such a trip on fire — for their Catholic faith, that is.

The group of over 40 teens and adult sponsors that attended World Youth Day in Sydney, Australia, July 15-20, found it to be winter down under. But the welcome they received was a warm one, and their experience nothing short of inspiring.

“I will always remember the spirits that the pilgrims had,” said 17year-old Kimberlee Hurla, a parishioner of Mother Teresa of Calcutta Parish in Topeka.

“They were all so dedicated to their Catholic faith,” she said, “and it was so amazing to see that many people that devoted to their church.”

Nancy Luna, a 17-year-old parishioner of All Saints Church in Kansas City, Kan., agreed.

“It’s really fascinating to see how many out there believe and have the same faith as you,” said Luna.

“Sharing my faith with so many different people was unforgettable.”

World Youth Day is a bit of a misnomer, since it is actually a series of youth events lasting the course of an entire week and sometimes taking advantage of multiple venues.

Events range from eucharistic adoration and outdoor Masses to concerts and cookouts. But every event of the international gathering is geared toward helping youth and young adults from around the world celebrate their Catholic faith.

This year’s World Youth Day activities culminated in a Mass celebrated by Pope Benedict XVI on the last day.

“My favorite thing would hands down have to be the Stations of the Cross,” said Hurla. “It was so mov-

AMAZING

Leaven photo by Elaina Generally

The Stations of the Cross at World Youth Day was one of the event’s highlights. “It was so moving. Some were crying. That was amazing to see,” said one pilgrim.

LONG TREK

Leaven photo by Elaina Generally

At the end of each day’s events, pilgrims from Kansas would return “home” to their host families. ing. To see the contrast in the way people were behaving the day before when they were yelling and screaming for the pope to arrive — at the

Stations they were sitting there, listening, paying attention. Some were crying. That was amazing to see.”

Meeting members of the religious

order founded by her parish’s namesake particularly moved Diana Oelke, a sponsor from Mother Teresa of Calcutta.

“The concert by Matt Maher was also great,” said Oelke, “listening to the words he sang to God while having eucharistic adoration during his concert.”

Though the group from the archdiocese traveled together to Sydney and attended each day’s events as a group, each night they split up to head to the homes of their individual hosts, all parishioners of Holy Name Church in Wahroonga.

“We were so blessed to live with a family,” said Hurla.

“I was lucky enough to have two different families and both of them were so sweet,” she added. “I really felt like I was a part of their families for those two weeks.”

“The host families were awesome,” Oelke concurred. “They provided transportation, great meals, and time out of their schedules to accommodate our scheduled events — like the 5 a.m. transportation to the location where we were assigned to walk to Randwick Racecourse (where the day’s events were being held).”

The group also had some opportunities for sightseeing while in Australia, though the focus was always on their faith experience. Many in the group say the trip was just the fuel they needed to get more involved in their faith and parish.

“This trip has helped me realize that it is very easy to be close to God and the church,” said Hurla. “It was a turning point for me. I’m making sure to change because I want to have a close relationship with my faith like I know I’m supposed to.”

Luna agreed.

“I’m planning to get more involved at my church. I’d love to get a bigger group together and go back to World Youth Day next time, so everyone has the chance to experience their faith like that,” she said.

HOST FAMILIES RELISH TIME SPENT WITH KANSAS CONTINGENT Continued from page 1

me with huge shouts and grins, passing on their infectious excitement and lifting my spirits.”

Not only was the program successful, but it turned into an experience as emotionally and spiritually charged as World Youth Day itself.

“It was both a privilege and honor to share the joy, peace, love and faith of the pilgrims,” said Father Hume. “This was truly a Christocentric event!”

Above and beyond

Open hearts Dona Gilbert, Home-Stay coordinator for Holy Name, began recruiting and interviewing host families as early as 2006. As the commencement of World Youth Day activities drew near, she was joined by fellow parishioners Marie D’Cruz and Michelle LePatourel, who helped her finalize plans and confirm hosts.

Volunteer host families knew nothing about the pilgrims they would house until just a few days before their arrival.

But they didn’t mind the mystery, said Pat MacMillan, who hosted Benedictine Father Meinrad Miller of St. Benedict’s Abbey in Atchison and archdiocesan vocation director Father Mitchel Zimmerman.

“We were more than happy to invite pilgrims into our home, wherever they might come from and whatever their background,” he said. “We knew the blessings they would bring with them.”

Roman Pazniewski and his wife Helena volunteered as hosts because their daughters were too young to officially participate in World Youth Day activities. They hoped that as hosts, their children could meet some of the thousands of young people traveling to their country for this once-in-a- lifetime experience.

It turned out even better than that.

The couple and their daughters wound up sharing tea with their international guests each night as they traded stories about the day’s events.

The Pazniewskis, who hosted six young women from Germany, said their house seemed empty when WYD ended and their pilgrims returned home.

“We spent every evening with them,” said Roman. “We also had

Leaven photo by Rick Peterson

PART OF THE FAMILY

Kansas pilgrim Jessica Peterson won’t soon forget her new friend Kate, the five-year-old daughter of Jessica’s hosts, Julie and John Kelly. Jessica and her father, Rick Peterson, both of St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kan., were sorry to leave Kate and her two siblings. breakfast together, and they joined in our family prayer at the table.”

Kansas spirit Gilbert said the Kansas pilgrims, in particular, earned a reputation for their friendliness and enthusiasm.

“They were fantastic — open and generous with their experiences,” she said. “They were interested in the parish and community — which made things perfect.”

Kelly Edmunds, who was the parish WYD coordinator and leader of the team that ran daily catechesis sessions at Holy Name, said she counted on the Kansas pilgrims to keep her spirits up during the trying week.

“I couldn't get enough of the KCK pilgrims. I was exhausted before the week even started, but a moment with any of them was always as good as several hours sleep!”

“Each morning at catechesis,” concurred Gilbert, “their enthusiasm and energy got me started for the day, and reminded me of why we were putting in all this effort.

“Each night, as we all got off our separate train carriages on arrival at Wahroonga station, they would greet

Host families were only required to provide pilgrims with bed and breakfast, but rarely did their hospitality end there.

Julie and John Kelly, along with their children — Tim, Anthony and Kate — hosted Rick Peterson and his daughter Jessica, parishioners of St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kan. Julie said she was thrilled to have Jessica as an example for her own children of someone who is “young, trendy and alive in her faith.” And the family will always treasure an evening meal they shared with their pilgrims.

“Together with the children we sat in the dining room with a fire and a few good Australian red wines and steaks,” she said. “It was lovely to share stories of our different lives and histories. We made them try a few Aussie tastes like Vegemite, beetroot dip and crumpets!”

MacMillan found himself inspired by his guest’s commitment to morning prayer. “[Especially in light of ] the big time difference,” he said, “it was inspirational to see the priests up in good time for morning prayer and meditation, and to have Father Mitchel always ensure that he was at the parish church in time for morning prayer with the seminarians who had accompanied him.”

He also said he would always remember the opportunity he had to show Father Meinrad some of the inner-city chapels and St. Mary Cathedral.

“At one, St. Patrick’s on Church Hill, Father Meinrad concelebrated Mass with the local parish priest, a Marist, and six other priests, including the cardinal archbishop of Barcelona, Spain,” he said. “Sitting down in the congregation I could not help but be aware of the universality of the church.”

One church In the end, the heightened awareness of the universality of the faith was an experience shared by pilgrims and hosts alike. Edmunds echoed the senti-

ments of many when she described how moving she found the evening vigil at Randwick Racecourse on the last night of the pilgrimage.

“At around 2 a.m., I sought some quiet time in one of the adoration tents and couldn’t believe what I found there — well over 100 young adults, silently praying,” she said. “It was so encouraging to see that, across the world, there are other young people who love Jesus and the church as I do.”

Holy Name Parish was truly immersed in that universality of faith. In addition to 130 Home-Stay pilgrims, Holy Name’s school, Prouille, hosted 140 local pilgrims, and the church accommodated 600 pilgrims at each catechesis session.

“Faith was the pivotal element,” said Father Hume. “To be excited by the Spirit and see so many pilgrims here did a great deal to lift the parish. The more mature people in our parish could not help but be infectiously moved by the joy of the young.”

Saying goodbye As the WYD pilgrimage came to a close and visitors packed up for home, many hosts felt like they were bidding farewell to family.

“One of our grandchildren had a birthday on the final Sunday of WYD week,” recalled MacMillan. “Our two pilgrim priests joined in as if they were longtime family, and it really made a terrific impression on the younger people there.”

In the aftermath of WYD, Gilbert has received many e-mails from host families exclaiming how much they enjoyed their experience and how privileged they felt to be a part of the Home-Stay program.

Father Hume has had similar feedback.

“I know lasting friendships were formed,” he said. “Some have planned to meet up in Madrid in 2011.”

In the end, Edmunds had a special message from Holy Name parishioners to their pilgrims from Kansas.

“The witness of all the pilgrims will certainly remain with Sydney for a long time to come,” she said. “And for that, we cannot thank you all enough.”

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CLASSIFIEDS

12 EMPLOYMENT Accounting/general office - Seeking a professional, hard-working individual who can multi-task and is detail-oriented. We are a 50-year-old family-owned business with an atmosphere that requires teamwork, reliability and respect. Our management style empowers our employees to give their thoughts and ideas and come up with solutions. We have a reward system for those who achieve their goals. Candidates must have excellent communication skills, a background in accounting/bookkeeping, and be computer literate in MS Word, Excel, and Outlook. Multiple tasks will range from backup accounting to making collection calls to making credit decisions. A college degree is not required; training will be provided. We are seeking a positive individual with a desire to learn various tasks; you will never be bored! If interested, send an email to: tgalvin@clune.net.

Campus ministry assistant - Bishop Miege High School, Roeland Park, is seeking an administrative assistant for the campus ministry office. The position is for the school year, August - May. Responsibilities include: data entry and receptionist tasks; assisting in the coordination of liturgies; helping to organize the community service program, mission trips and retreats; and supervision of students in the CMT office. Hours are 7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., school days only. Mail letter of interest and resume to: President Dr. Joseph Passantino, Bishop Miege High School, 5041 Reinhardt Dr., Shawnee Mission, KS 66205. For information, call (913) 262-2701, ext. 237.

Director of liturgical music - For Our Lady of the Lake Church, Lake Ozark, Mo. For information, send an e-mail to Msgr.

Michael Wilbers at: ourladylake@sbcglobal. net. Mail resume to: P.O. Box 2390, Lake Ozark, MO 65049.

Work at home - No selling, no inventory, no risk!!! For details, visit the Web site at: www.AtHomeFullTime.com.

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

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

Proficiency in MS applications; ability to assist Web users with demos, navigation of our Web application, and other support related issues. Great opportunity with a growing company. Salary, bonus, benefits, plus 401(k).

Send resume via e-mail to: HR@cobraguard. net. EOE. Music director/organist position St. Peters Parish, Kansas City, Mo. Approx.

25 hrs/week beginning in Sept.

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

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

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

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

SERVICES Do you remember the “Footsteps” poem? God will carry us through difficult times if we ask for help. Spirituality-based counseling for depression, anxiety, family and relationship difficulties provided by social worker Lois A. Miller, LSCSW, in the Mission area. Call (913) 980-7336.

Preserve your memories by telling your life story! I can type your memoirs from handwritten or recorded notes. Also provide secretarial services. Call All About Words at (913) 438-5922.

Professional executive assistants Available for flexible evening and weekend hours to provide supportive services as needed for your business or company. Call Kathie or Julie at (913) 310-0375.

Bankruptcy - When debt becomes overwhelming, seek professional help.

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

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

Piano and voice lessons - Available for the fall. Lessons are reasonably priced and are one-on-one. For information, call (913) 206-2151, or send an e-mail to: mamurick@ rockhurst.edu.

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

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

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

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

Call Zep at (816) 741-0999.

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

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

Please call Sandy at (913) 788-7676.

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

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

Live-in caregiver/companion needed - For 99-yr.-old lady in Leawood.

Responsibilities include personal hygiene, light housekeeping, and companionship.

Exchange for private room and bath. Female applicants preferred. Perfect for a college student. Evenings and weekends free. Call Renee at (913) 558-3051.

I am the part-time nanny of seven children and I love it! - I will aid you or your loved one as a companion, housekeeper, caregiver, and/or meal provider. Day, night or both. I am the eldest of 17 children.

References by letter or phone from those whom I serve. Call me! I’m Emma Huser, member of St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee. (913) 422-0733.

Retired nurse - Is willing to care for your loved one evenings, or nights or weekends.

Excellent, recent references; reasonable hourly rates. Hospice experience. Willing to provide light housekeeping and meal preparation.

Call Pam at (913) 579- 5276.

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

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

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

When was the last time you updated your will? Is it valid? Would you like to make changes? Does it include your parish or a local Catholic organization? To speak with a confidential adviser, call the Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas at (913) 647-0365. To request a free will planning kit, visit the Web site at: www.cfnek.org.

HOME IMPROVEMENT House painting Free estimates; quality work Member St. Agnes Parish Call Bob at (913) 236-5047 Custom-kitchen countertops Laminate tops manufactured and installed within 5 days. Competitive prices, dependable work. St. Joseph Parish member. Call The Top Shop, Inc., at (816) 898-8685 or (913) 962-5058.

Adept Home Improvements Where quality still counts!

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

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

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

Call (913) 829-4336.

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

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

FOLEY’S LAWN CARE * Mowing * Leaf Cleanups * * Bed Mulching * * Landscape Maintenance * www.foleyslawncare.com Serving Johnson County, Kansas (913) 825-4353

THE LEAVEN • AUGUST 15, 2008 Electrician - Free estimates; reasonable rates. JoCo and southern KC metro area. Call Pat at (913) 963-9896.

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

Call Lupe at (816) 252-3376.

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

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

Lawn and landscape work College student looking for landscaping and mowing work. Four years’ experience.

Will do trees, mulching, deck refurbishment and landscape design and install.

Johnson County. Call Josh at (913) 7097230.

REAL ESTATE H o m e f o r s a l e - Northwest Leavenworth area. 3 BR, 2-1/2 BA, twocar garage, ranch home with eat-in kitchen, family room, fenced yard, and a full bsmt with two rec. rooms. $140K. Call (913) 226-7296.

Leawood home for sale – Curé of Ars Parish; Town and Country Estates.

Spacious 4 BR, 3 -1/2 BA, split-level on ¾acre. Must see! $399,950. Call Shirley McKay: (816) 289-4230. Reece & Nichols.

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

Sugar Valley Lakes Resort Mound City, Kan. Only 65 miles from Kansas City. 70 ft. furnished trailer with large covered deck. 12 by 12 wood shed.

Beautiful 9-hole golf course, fishing, beach and pool. $25K. Call (913) 768-4663.

VACATION Lake of the Ozarks rental - Osage Beach, million-dollar view, fully furnished; 2 BR, 2 BA; sleeps six. No smoking, no pets. For special rates, call Steve or Sheryl Roederer at (913) 244-2022, or take a visual tour at: www.visualtour.com/shownp. asp?T=338261.

Summer vacation - Winter Park, Colo. 2 BR, 1 BA, sleeps 6. Fully furnished, fireplace, rec center w/pool, fishing, golf, hiking, rafting, close to nat’l park. $100/night; $600/week. Call Joe Frederick at (913) 385-5589.

M o u n t a i n c a b i n – Winter Park, Colo. 2 BR, 1 BA. Mountain view, near all recreation areas. $95/night. Call (785) 832-1518. To view, visit the Web site at: cabin.forcadeassociates.com. (classified ads continued on page 13)

AUGUST 15, 2008

•

THE LEAVEN

CLASSIFIEDS (continued from page 12)

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

Looking to home share?

Retired nurse trying to reduce living expenses is seeking private space at low or no cost. Willing to negotiate a work exchange. Call Pam at (913) 5795276.

FOR SALE F o r S a l e - Holy Redeemer Mausoleum, crypt #53 for two, tier Beast IV at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Kansas City, Mo. Call Mary Perez, after 2 p.m., at (816) 842-2883.

CHILDCARE

Education The Keeler Women’s Center, a ministry of the Benedictine Sisters located at 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan., will offer the following classes: • “Would You Hire You?” A crash course to help those looking for entry-level or nonprofessional jobs will be held from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Aug. 20 and 21.

Lunch will be provided.

• “Dress for Success on a Budget” will be held from 2 - 3 p.m. on Aug. 21.

• Literacy Kansas City, in partnership with the Keeler Women’s Center, will provide basic literacy tutors for adult men and women. Tutors meet with students twice a week.

Classes are offered free of charge; however, space is limited and advance registration is required. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990, or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org.

Meetings The T o p e k a C a t h o l i c S i n g l e s group will host a monthly meeting at 7 p.m. on Aug. 19 at Most Pure Heart of Mary, 17th and Stone, Topeka.

Childcare needed - Our family is seeking day care four afternoons a week from 1:30 - 5:30 p.m. for two boys, ages 5 and 7, in our home. Must have excellent driving record and references. Members of Church of the Nativity, Leawood. Call (913) 5939559.

S.K.I.P. (Special Kids, Informed Parents) is a parent group to support, educate, and advocate for families who are living with a disabled or special needs child. The next monthly meeting will be held on Aug. 25 at 7 p.m. in the community room of the library in Seneca. For information, call (785) 336-3917, or send an e-mail to: skipnews4u@yahoo.com.

Seeking part-time nanny Mon. - Thurs., beginning mid-Aug. through the school year. Main duties will include the care of three older school-age children, homework supervision, and very light housekeeping.

Must be 18 or older and have transportation. Call (816) 896-2018.

The Johnson County Unos will hold their monthly meeting and potluck dinner at 6 p.m. on Sept. 5 at St. Pius X Church, 5601 Woodson, Mission.

Bring meat casseroles, salads, vegetables or desserts — enough to feed 8 — or $5 to pay for your meal.

WANTED TO BUY COINS WANTED Buying old coins.

Single coins and/or collections.

(913) 642-8269 (913) 593-7507 ***ANTIQUES WANTED*** Postcards, old photos, military items, trains, coins, watches, jewelry, political buttons, signs, old toys and banks, Red Wing crocks, Indian rugs, sterling silverware.

Call Chris (913) 642-8269.

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

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

To purchase a Leaven classified ad, send an e-mail to: jennifer@theleaven. com, or call (913) 647-0327. The cost is $16 per column inch, five lines or less. Each additional line is $1.50.

Classified ads can be posted online at The Leaven’s Web site for an additional $5 per week.

13

CALENDAR

Miscellaneous The fourth annual Jennifer (Duke) Burton memorial volleyball tournam e n t benefiting the R o s e B r o o k s C e n t e r will be held on Aug. 23 at Volleyball Beach, 13105 Holmes, Kansas City, Mo. Sign-in begins at 3 p.m., with the games starting at 5 p.m. The cost is $25 per player; minimum six-player teams; all games will be co-ed. Don’t have a team? Call us and we will find one for you. The sign-up deadline is Aug. 16. For information, contact Todd Carter at (816) 931-7556 or Sonya Vickers at ( 816) 7810025.

Join chef Kiersten Firquain from 7 - 9 p.m. on Aug. 26 for an evening of healthy cooking using local produce in a handson cooking class to benefit the New Roots for Refugees Program, featured in the Aug. 1 issue of The Leaven.

The class will meet at St. Pius X Church, 5601 Woodson Ave., Mission. The cost is $40 per person. Bring your own apron.

For information, visit the Web site at: newrootsforrefugees.blogspot.com, or call Stacy at (913) 481-8477.

Donnelly College will honor the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica at its second annual schola r s h i p d i n n e r on Sept. 6 at the Reardon Center, Kansas City, Kan. Proceeds from the dinner will be used to establish a scholarship in their name to benefit Donnelly students. Over 80 Sisters have served at Donnelly since its beginning in 1949. All former students and friends of Donnelly are invited to attend a free open house from 3:30 - 5:30 p.m. at the college, followed by dinner at the Reardon Center at 6 p.m. For information or to purchase tickets for the dinner, call Marva Dace at (913) 621-8746.

Religious events Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish, Edgerton, will celebrate its 150th anniversary on Aug. 16 with a Mass at 5 p.m., followed by a dinner reception and slide-show presentation in the parish hall.

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

A healing Mass, sponsored by archdiocesan charismatic prayer groups, will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Aug. 21 at Curé of Ars Church, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood. Father Peter Jaramillo will preside; fellowship follows. For information, call (913) 649-2026.

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

St. Patrick Parish, 94th and State Ave., Kansas City, Kan., will host a sixpart weekly Bible study focused on the scriptures of St. Paul from 7 - 8 p.m. on Sundays beginning Aug. 24. All are invited to attend. The cost of $8 includes a discussion guide. For information or to register, call (913) 299-3370.

The Johnson County Unos will gather for 4:30 p.m. Mass on Aug. 30 at St. Pius X Church, 5601 Woodson, Mission.

Dinner will follow at Applebee’s, 6800 Johnson Dr. We are seeking women of all ages to join us this fall for an inter-parish Bible study of the Book of Revelation, based on lessons

by Scott Hahn and Mark Shea. We will also have the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program for children ages 3 - 9. Children younger than 3 years old are welcome to stay with their moms in a moms’ study group.

The group will meet for 24 weeks, beginning Sept. 4, from 9:30 - 11 a.m. on Thursdays at Holy Trinity Church, Lenexa. For information to register, call Laura Haeusser at (913) 341-9057 or Kathryn Burditt at (913) 451-3680.

St. Matthew Parish, 2700 S.E. Virginia Ave., Topeka, will host a parish mission from Sept. 7 - 10. For information, call the parish office at (785) 232-5012.

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

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

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

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

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

St. Joseph, Lillis, will host its annual parish picnic on Aug. 17. A beef and ham dinner will be served from 4:30 - 7:30 p.m.

The cost is $7 for adults; $4 for children ages 5 - 11. There will be games for all and a raffle at 8:30 p.m.

The Shawnee Knights of Columbus, Council No. 2332, will host a Texas hold ’em poker tournament on Aug. 22 in their hall located at 11221 Johnson Dr., Shawnee. The entry fee of $40 includes refreshments. The first prize is a $400 gift certificate to The Legends shopping center. Registration begins at 6 p.m.; the tournament starts at 7 p.m. For information, call Tim Seibold at (913) 226-4543.

The Singles of Nativity will sponsor a “Summer Boogie Nights” dance from 7 - 11:30 p.m. on Aug. 23 in the Nativity Parish hall, 119th and Mission Rd., Leawood. The cost is $15 for members; $20 for nonmembers. For information, send an e-mail to Rosanna Scaglia or Rita Statham at: social@son-ministry.org.

The Shawnee Knights of Columbus, Council No. 2332, will host their annual family picnic from noon until dark on Aug. 24 in their park at Shawnee Mission Pkwy. and Midland Dr., Shawnee. Food, beverages and fun will be available to all. There is no cost to attend. For information, call (913) 248-8278.

Join the Singles of Nativity for happy hour, beginning at 5:30 p.m., on Aug. 27 at Trolley’s Bar and Grille, 9100 W. 135th, Overland Park. Look for the yellow balloon. Questions? Send an e-mail to: social@son-ministry.org.

All Saints Parish will host its annual Josefesta from noon - 11 p.m. on Sept. 6 on the grounds of St. Joseph Church, 809 Vermont, Kansas City, Kan. There will be food, games, prizes, a dance, and entertainment for all. For information, call (913) 3711837.

Mother Teresa of Calcutta Church, 2014 N.W. 46th St., Topeka, will host its inaugural Holy Smokin’ Jamboree from 4 - 10 p.m. on Sept. 6 and from 9:30 a.m. 5 p.m. on Sept. 7. Enjoy great food, a dance, and a beer garden Saturday night, along with auctions and a car raffle. On Sunday, ribs, pulled pork sandwiches and homemade sides will be served. There will be games for the kids, arts and crafts booths, an auction, and a raffle. For information, contact the church office at (785) 286-2188.

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

Freedom from pornography. Sam Meier, MA, LPC, provides counseling and men’s groups for sexual integrity. Call (913) 647-0378, or send an e-mail to: mhmg@archkck.org. Women: Contact Beth Meier for information on our group for spouses and loved ones at (913) 647-0379, or send an e-mail to: bmeier@archkck.org.

Support is confidential and from a Catholic perspective. To listen to live testimonials, visit the Web site at: www.archkck.org/myhouse.

14

COMMENTARY

THE LEAVEN • AUGUST 15, 2008

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

Advertising Representative JENNIFER SIEBES jennifer@theleaven.com

Senior Reporter JOE BOLLIG joe@theleaven.com

Reporter KARA HANSEN kara@theleaven.com

Production Manager TODD HABIGER todd@theleaven.com

Intern Seán T.D. Kane

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

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

SCRIPTURE

READINGS TWENTIETH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Aug. 17 TWENTIETH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Is 56: 1, 6-7; Ps 67: 2-3, 5-6, 8; Rom 11: 13-15, 29-32; Mt 15: 21-28 Aug. 18 Monday Ez 24: 15-24; (Ps) Dt 32: 18-21; Mt 19: 16-22 Aug. 19 John Eudes, priest Ez 28: 1-10; (Ps) Dt 32: 26-28, 30, 35c-36b; Mt 19: 23-30 Aug. 20 Bernard, abbot and doctor of the church Ez 34: 1-11; Ps 23: 1-6; Mt 20: 1-16

Reclaim your Sabbath — one half-hour at a time wish I would have done what I said I’d do. I would have saved myself a whole lot of embarrassment.

Here’s what happened: After morning Mass a couple of weeks ago, a young member of my parish came to the sacristy bearing a cheery little pink and green gift bag with the word “enjoy” on it. As it wasn’t my birthday or any other special occasion, I asked Mary, “Is this for me?”

As she handed it over, she clutched the top of the bag and said, “Yes, but don’t open it till you get to work [at The Leaven].”

I agreed, and put the bag aside as I hung up my vestments.

As I was leaving the sacristy, Mary’s dad met me at the door and asked, “Did you open it?” When I told him about my promise to Mary, her mom chimed in, “Oh, don’t wait! Open it now!”

With an apologetic look at Mary, I peeked inside the bag. It contained a book.

Pulling it out, I saw its title: “Exceptions to the Ten Commandments.” With a wicked grin, I said, “Oh, this should be good!”

I opened the book. The first page was blank. So was the second . . . and the third . . . and the fourth. In fact, the entire book consisted of blank pages.

Its message was clear. And no, that intended message was not: See how creative you can be and fill in your own “Things I do that are sinful, but aren’t really (in my mind).”

The point of the little book was to remind “readers” that there really are

I

no exceptions to the Ten Commandments, which were given to us as a practical guide on how to love God and our neighbor. There are no exceptions to living out that love.

With a sheepish look, I turned to Mary and her parents and said, “I really wish that I’d opened this down at The Leaven as FATHER I promised Mary I’d MARK That way you GOLDASICH do. wouldn’t have seen how eager I was to discover some exceptions to the Ten Commandments!”

Isn’t that how we frequently live our lives, though? Looking for the loopholes and not simply doing what we know in our hearts is right?

I read, once, that centuries ago rabbis did a ranking of the Ten Commandments in terms of importance. Which one came out on top? It was: Remember to keep holy the Lord’s Day. Surprised? I was, until I heard their reasoning. The rabbis felt this commandment was the one that kept us “in right relationship to God.” And if you’re close to God — praying and listening to his voice — you’ll see the wisdom of the other commandments and be faithful to living them out.

As another school year kicks off, maybe all of us “students of faith” can take a lesson from those wise rabbis and examine how we spend the Lord’s Day. All too often, it becomes just a time to run errands or do mundane tasks that we don’t have time for during the week. We may even feel that attending Mass is one of those tasks — something to check off on our to-do

lists, right alongside cutting the grass or picking up groceries.

For people of faith, Sunday has to be much more than that. It’s designed by the creator to be a time to rest, to refresh ourselves, and to be with those we love (God, included). Sunday puts us in right relationship — not only with God, but with our world as well.

How do your Sundays look? I suspect that a lot of us would not get a passing grade from the Lord on how we keep that day holy.

I hope that you’ll take time to read the articles in this week’s issue on World Youth Day. Our archdiocesan pilgrims discovered in those days in Australia the power of simple Sabbath things: going to church, sharing a meal, visiting, and taking it easy. From those actions, these pilgrims, according to the Australians, were literally filled with the Spirit and overflowed with compassion and enthusiasm.

The great thing about our faith is that we don’t have to travel to a World Youth Day to experience those things.

Simply reclaiming our Sabbaths again should do the trick. This Sunday, celebrate the Lord’s Day as it’s intended: Go to Mass, greet and visit with fellow parishioners, enjoy a family meal.

Start making the Sabbath holy again, one half-hour at a time. Read a spiritual book, take a nap, walk around the neighborhood and greet people, keep in touch with distant family and friends by phone or letter.

These small things may not seem like much, but they are putting us in that right relationship with our God. Once there, we’ll understand that not only are there no real exceptions to the Ten Commandments, we won’t even be tempted to try and find any.

Aug. 21 Pius X, pope Ez 36: 23-28; Ps 51: 12-15, 18-19; Mt 22: 1-14

THE GOSPEL TRUTH

Aug. 22 The Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ez 37: 1-14; Ps 107: 2-9; Mt 22: 34-40

God’s grace and a mother’s love save girl

Aug. 23 Rose of Lima, virgin Ex 43: 1-7ab; Ps 85: 9ab, 10-14; Mt 23: 1-12 TWENTY-FIRST WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Aug. 24 TWENTY-FIRST SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Is 22: 19-23; Ps 138: 1-3, 6-8; Rom 11: 33-36; Mt 16: 13-20 Aug. 25 Louis of France; Joseph Calasanz, priest 2 Thes 1: 1-5, 11-12; Ps 96: 1-5; Mt 23: 13-22 Aug. 26 Tuesday 2 Thes 2: 1-3a, 14-17; Ps 96: 10-13; Mt 22: 23-26 Aug. 27 Monica 2 Thes 3: 6-10, 16-18; Ps 128: 1-2, 4-5; Mt 23: 27-32 Aug. 28 Augustine, bishop, doctor of the church 1 Cor 1: 1-9; Ps 145: 2-7; Mt 24: 42-51 Aug. 29 The Martyrdom of John the Baptist 1 Cor 1: 17-25; Ps 33: 1-2, 4-5, 10-11; Mk 6: 17-29 Aug. 30 Saturday 1 Cor 1: 26-31; Ps 33: 12-13, 18-21; Mt 25: 14-30

TWENTIETH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Mt 15: 21-28 hen faced with serious disease, people will sometimes turn to desperate measures. They may seek cures from practitioners of alternative medicine, less politely known as quacks. They may try experimental drugs. They will do anything to save the life of their loved one.

When the mother of a seriously ill girl in the region of Tyre and Sidon, modern-day Lebanon, heard about the wonderful healer who was visiting, she decided to turn to him for help. Her decision was motivated by love for her daughter. But because the healer in question was Jesus, her decision becomes a story of faith. We will hear that story as Sunday’s Gospel reading, Mt 15:21-28. It demonstrates the persistence of faith.

The woman overcomes many obstacles in seeking a cure for her daughter.

First of all, we repeat, she is a woman.

That in itself is a strike against her in

W

this highly patriarchal society.

But over and beyond that, she is not Jewish. In fact, Matthew departs from Mark’s version of the same story to describe her as Canaanite. In using this antiquated term, he emphasizes her pagan identity and associates her with the original inhabitants FATHER of the Promised Land, MIKE who centuries earlier STUBBS had been enemies of the Israelite settlers.

But the obstacles do not stop there.

The woman encounters hostility from Jesus’ disciples, who are guarding Jesus from unwanted attention. They complain to Jesus: “Send her away, for she keeps calling out after us.”

Perhaps the greatest obstacle, though, comes from Jesus himself. First he gives her the silent treatment: “Jesus did not say a word in answer to her.” Finally, Jesus states his conviction that God wants to restrict his ministry to the Jewish people: “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”

Jesus even insults her with a remark that places her and her fellow Gentiles on the level of dogs, compared to the Jews, who are children of God: “It is

not right to take the food of children and throw it to the dogs.” This remark does not show Jesus in the best light. It reflects the xenophobia of his society, rather than his true nature.

Instead of reacting with anger at this insult, however, the woman responds with great wit: “Even the dogs eat the scraps that fall from the table of their master.”

The woman’s persistence earns her Jesus’ respect and her daughter’s healing. He exclaims: “O woman, great is your faith!”

At the same time, we remember that love for her daughter has motivated all the woman’s actions. If she were dealing with a physician, rather than with Jesus, would we still call her persistence faith? I think not. It would still be praiseworthy, but not attain the level of faith.

It is God’s grace that has put her in contact with Jesus, rather than with some other healer. It is God’s grace that has transformed the love for her daughter into faith in Jesus Christ.

God’s grace, and the mother’s love, have joined to bring her to Christ.

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

AUGUST 15, 2008

The essays on this page are the boy and girl winners of the annual vocation essay contest sponsored by the Serra Club of Wyandotte and Johnson Counties. The winners received $100, as did their schools.

•

THE LEAVEN

LOCAL NEWS

15

6th Grade SAM PATE —Vil lage

CAT Holy HERI Trinit NE S y, Le PALE nexa Priests — 6t

St. Ann Parish, Prairie

dently oned and dull. I confi

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LOCAL NEWS

16

JAZZ MAN Seminarian brings his unique perspective to hospital ministry

By CATHERINE RICE Special to The Leaven KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Seminary student Matthew Schiffelbein may be majoring in theology at Mundelein Seminary, Mundelein, Ill., but thanks to Providence Medical Center here, he’s learning how to apply life’s lessons to his ministry this summer.

A native of Topeka, Schiffelbein is studying for the priesthood for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and recently was ordained a deacon.

He anticipates completing his seminary studies in May 2009 and being ordained a priest for the archdiocese in June. But he’s spent the summer working with the Spiritual Care department at Providence and serving at St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kan. Deacon Schiffelbein, who was diagnosed with macular degeneration in the fourth grade and is legally blind, says he has found his experience at the hospital a lesson in humility.

“I visit with the patients several hours each week, talking and praying with them,” he said. “I have been surprised by the wide range of responses people have to illness, and I have had to recognize that I am not here to fix their problems, but to listen to their concerns and support them in their time of need.”

Deacon Schiffelbein finds patients also respond well to his own health concerns.

“I think being blind gives me a greater sense of compassion for others, but it also gives patients hope,” he said. “They see that I have found faith and meaning in my struggle, and they are inspired to find a way to overcome their limitations — to find meaning and purpose in life’s challenges. That kind of witness is very powerful.”

Deacon Schiffelbein did not pursue the priest-

hood right after college. Before entering the seminary, in fact, he earned a master’s in music in the saxophone from the University of Kansas, specializing in jazz.

He has put those skills to good use at Providence, too, playing at the recent rededication of the hospital’s healing waters fountain. He is a 1997 graduate of Seaman High School in Topeka and has played the saxophone since the fifth grade.

“Matthew has been an outstanding addition to our spiritual care staff at Providence,” said George Noonan, vice president of Mission Integration for the hospital. “He brings a unique perspective to his ministry, one I believe our patients appreciate. We have been fortunate to have him with us these past few months.”

“My experience at Providence has been terrific,” said Deacon Schiffelbein. “I have been very impressed with the staff and how much they care. As I talk with patients, they notice that the Providence staff takes its healing mission to heart, and that’s important when you are facing a serious health concern, as many of the patients I have talked with are.”

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Matthew has been an outstanding addition to our spiritual care staff at Providence.

He brings a unique perspective to his ministry, one I believe our patients appreciate.

George Noonan, vice president of Mission Integration for Providence Medical Center, Kansas City, Kan.

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