08-26-11 Vol. 33 No. 5 by The Leaven

WWW.THELEAVEN.COM | NEWSPAPER OF THE ARCHDIOCESE OF KANSAS CITY IN KANSAS | VOL. 33, NO. 5 AUGUST 26, 2011

Jeff Berning (front), Kayla Staley and Michaela Stompoly, all parishioners at Holy Trinity in Lenexa, haul debris from a house in Joplin destroyed by the EF5 tornado that hit on May 22.

Inside a Joplin warehouse, a group from Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish in Overland Park sorts and organizes donated items into “starter kits” for the families that come in for assistance.

A Joplin homeowner shares his story with Roeland Park’s Bishop Miege students and other volunteers before that day’s work begins.

Teens offer Joplin hope and help Archdiocesan volunteers share their stories from tornado-ravaged city

Stories by Jessica Langdon

ay 22, 2011… The news was shattering. The stories heartbreaking. The devastation beyond words. The help has been amazing. Since EF5 winds tore through Joplin,

claiming lives and homes and injuring hundreds, people from all over have reached out to the Missouri community. Volunteers from across the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas have been part of the efforts to help as Joplin begins to heal. They brought back stories of loss and devastation, but also of faith and hope. Here, three share their experiences.

Stories continue on pages 8-9

The path of destruction from a massive EF5 tornado runs to the horizon in Joplin, Mo. CNS photo/Dave Crenshaw, Eastern Oklahoma Catholic

2 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • AUGUST 26, 2011

Priest appreciation day moves to St. Michael By Kevin Kelly

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Nothing much that was ever conceived in the mind of the late Bob Miller stayed small for long. For the fourth time, the event that has evolved into the annual Priests and Seminarians Appreciation Day has outgrown its venue and will move actually into two places instead of one on Sept. 19. Matt Miller, who took over the event when his dad passed away in August 2010, said this year’s golfing tournament and accompanying gin rummy and Texas Hold ’em card tournaments will be held at the PGA Tour-quality Jack Nicklaus Golf Club at Lionsgate in Overland Park. The after-party barbecue and awards presentation will take place at St. Michael the Archangel Parish center, across the street from Lionsgate. This year’s event will feature a few new wrinkles. “We’ll be having a ‘Sandbaggers Division’ in the golf tournament,” Miller said. “A priest can pick the best golfers in his parish, and they will compete for a $2,000 prize for the parish.” It’s all free to priests and seminarians who will take a break from studies at Conception Seminary College in Conception, Mo. Nonclergy golfers can sign up for $250, card players for $50, with sponsorships available from $100 to $10,000. Miller said his father got the idea of a golf tournament fundraiser for Conception in 1992 that would also give a free golf day to priests of the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph, with an after-party at the Miller home. As the years wore on, the elder Miller saw that the event was not just a fundraiser, but a rare day when priests could get together and relax. The event first moved out of the Miller home to More Hall at St. Thomas More Parish in Kansas City, Mo. It quickly outgrew that venue and shift-

weekly calendar

Aug. 28 Mass and installation of Father Richard McDonald — Holy Angels, Basehor Groundbreaking for new church — St. Stanislaus, Rossville Aug. 29 Feasibility Task Force meeting

Leaven file photo

Priests like Father Shawn Tunink (left) and Father Mitchel Zimmerman can relax with a day of golf or poker at the annual Priests and Seminarians Appreciation Day Sept. 19 at the Jack Nicklaus Golf Club at Lionsgate in Overland Park. ed to Leawood South Country Club in Kansas — not only for more elbow room, but to encourage priests from the Kansas archdiocese to attend. Miller said the event has now outgrown the parking capacity around Leawood South and will now take advantage of the space at St. Michael. He noted that Lionsgate will host a Nationwide PGA Tour event a few weeks before it hosts the priests on the course that golfing great Jack Nicklaus designed. “Maybe we should leave the pro tees in and make ’em hit from there,” Miller quipped. At the awards ceremony, priests will be showered with practical gifts that ordinarily they would have to buy from their own pockets. And that includes tailored black suits and overcoats for any priest who wants one. But most of all, the event will be exactly what Bob Miller envisioned it would be — a time not only for priests to gather for fun, but to know their work is appreciated. Miller said both he and his brother Sean have split the work and legacy of their father. Matt Miller has

taken charge of Celebrating Our Religious Enthusiastically (CORE), the nonprofit that puts on the annual Priests and Seminarians Appreciation Day. Sean Miller took over Homes from the Heart, a charity his father established to build concrete homes in El Salvador following the 2001 earthquake. Miller said that while he was spending August planning the event for priests, his brother was in El Salvador, building more homes. “He wouldn’t die until Sean and I agreed to take over these things,” Miller said. The two Miller sons are also working on funding a permanent foundation for both CORE and Homes from the Heart so that their father’s dream will live forever. “It’s still a dream and a prayer,” he said. Donations to CORE can be sent to 373 W. 101st Terr., Kansas City MO 64114. More information including registration and sponsorship opportunities for the annual Priests and Seminarians Appreciation Day is available online at the website: www. CelebrateOurReligious.org.

Aug. 30 Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas meeting Aug. 31 Celebration of Archbishop Emeritus Keleher’s 80th birthday with priests of the archdiocese

Archbishop Keleher’s weekly calendar

Aug. 31 Celebration of 80th birthday with priests of the archdiocese

Mass will honor Blessed John Paul II SHAWNEE — The Holy See has granted an extraordinary indult for dioceses around the world to celebrate a Mass in commemoration of Pope John Paul II. Catholics are invited to join Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann for this Mass of commemoration at 10:30 a.m. on Oct. Pope John Paul II 1 at Good Shepherd Parish, 12800 W. 75th St., Shawnee.

K E A T I N G Mud Jacking FOUNDATION REPAIR

Cracked • Bowed • Settled Wall Repair v Wall Bracing v Waterproofing v Steel Underpinning Kansas City (913) 262-9352

GIFT OF A LIFETIME

Archbishop Naumann’s Aug. 27 Groundbreaking for Little Sisters of the Lamb monastery

Catholic Key Associate Editor

Lawrence (785) 865-0006

MUD JACKING Raise & Level

v Patios v Drives v Garage Floors v Slab Houses Topeka (785) 246-0128

SECOND FRONT PAGE 3

Sacred Heart School principal donates a kidney to her niece By Jessica Langdon Leaven staff

OTTAWA — When Sacred Heart School principal Diane Chapman welcomed students here to the new school year, a part of her was somewhere else. At Pittsburg State University, to be precise, where her transplanted kidney was hard at work inside her niece, Kimberly Thompson, who was starting nursing school there. In side-by-side operating rooms in June, Chapman gave 20-year-old Kimberly — who is also her goddaughter — a new lease on life. “I was born with kidney failure,” said the young nursing student, who grew up a member of Sacred Heart Parish in Emporia. But few people knew of the fatigue and limitations that accompanied her condition. “She never complained,” said Chapman, “never told people she had kidney failure, never used it as a crutch or excuse, which I think speaks volumes of her character and integrity.” And when the call came to help her, Chapman didn’t hesitate. “We always knew there was a transplant in her future,” said Marcia Thompson, Kimberly’s mother and Chapman’s sister. But Thompson’s blood type matched her daughter’s. And from day one, they planned for her to be the donor. But God had another plan.

‘I didn’t even have to ask’ Kimberly had a tough summer in 2010, and things didn’t improve that fall. Her kidneys just weren’t doing their job in filtering out toxins. “I don’t think she even knew how bad she felt,” said Thompson. She was exhausted but couldn’t sleep. Concentrating was nearly impossible, but the college student kept her grades up. She started dialysis in February. It perked her up immensely, but it broke Chapman’s heart to see her vibrant niece hooked up to a machine for hours at a time. A mother-daughter transplant was planned for late May. That way, Kimberly could recover over the summer and start her nursing program in the fall. The surgery wasn’t to be, though. “I was diagnosed with kidney stones,” said Thompson. “They ruled me out.” They received the devastating news on April Fools’ Day, of all days. And it left Thompson and her husband, Terry, struggling with how to approach the only option remaining to them. How do you ask someone for a kidney for your daughter? Chapman had offered to be tested if the need ever arose. “People say that,” said Thompson, “but I guess she meant it.” Because when she made the tough-

Leaven photo by Jessica Langdon

Kimberly Thompson (center) received the gift of a kidney from her aunt and godmother Diane Chapman (left). Kimberly’s mother Marcia Thompson (right) was originally going to be Kimberly’s donor, but kidney stones ruled her out. Tens of thousands of people are waiting for kidneys and other organs. This family knows every situation is different, but they urge others to think about donation. “As a recipient’s mom, please, please consider being a donor,” Marcia Thompson said. “At least check it out.” “Being the donor, I second that,” Diane Chapman said. “It’s been an incredible, amazing journey. When you think about maybe a month of recovery to heal up, to be able to change somebody’s life, their health, and their livelihood, it’s easy to give somebody a gift like that.” Organ donations of all types are needed, according to Midwest Transplant Network: • 1,000 people in Kansas and 2,000 in Missouri are waiting for lifesaving transplants. • More than 103,000 are waiting for lifesaving transplants across the United States. • In 2008, 7,984 deceased donors and 6,218 living donors resulted in 27,961 organ transplants. The National Kidney Foundation’s website, www.kidney.org, offers information on becoming a living donor. For information on organ donations in general, visit the website at: www.mwtn.org.

est call of her life, “I didn’t even have to ask,” Thompson said. “She volunteered.” “When she called, my heart was just breaking for her,” said Chapman. “I wanted to reach through the phone and hug her.” Thompson suggested her sister take

the weekend and talk it over with her husband, Perry, and grown children, Ben and Emily. But Chapman didn’t need to. “There was never a question,” she said. But she won’t take any credit for her courage. “That’s the Holy Spirit,” she said simply. “I’m not real brave.” Testing proved that Perry and Kimberly’s brother, Brandon, are also potential matches, but the doctors wanted to wait on him, in case Kimberly needs another transplant someday. “It’s a very good feeling,” said Kimberly, “[knowing] you have family that’s willing to give you that big of a gift.” Thompson puts it another way. “God’s fingerprints are just all over you,” she said.

Good news Chapman’s “yes” was just the beginning. Principal of Sacred Heart since 2003, she was already busy before adding one medical test after another into the last few jampacked weeks of school. But she passed each hurdle, and finally learned that her kidney would be compatible. The green light came on June 7. Surgery was scheduled for June 20. Chapman called her niece. “Hey, Kimberly, this is Aunt Diane,” said Chapman. “I think we need a girls’ day out on June 20.” “I think I started crying,” said Kimberly.

Prayers and preparations Preparing for the day of the surgery hit Thompson even harder than the three weeks Kimberly spent in the hospital as a newborn. “She looked at me and said, ‘Mom, of course — you know me now,’” said

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)

Editor Reverend Mark Goldasich, stl frmark@theleaven.com

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe@theleaven.com

Reporter Jessica Langdon jessica@theleaven.com

President Most Reverend Joseph F. Naumann

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita@theleaven.com

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd@theleaven.com

Advertising Representative Jennifer Siebes jennifer@theleaven.com

Thompson. “And I would have walked through fire 20 years ago.” Kimberly is an amazing young woman and has endured so much, she said. But she’s never asked for pity, said Chapman. She is witty, mature and fun. As they neared the date for the transplant, family, friends and even complete strangers began praying for Kimberly, Chapman and their doctors. Thompson knows of four denominations in Emporia alone that prayed. At St. Joseph Parish in Waverly, where Chapman’s and Thompson’s parents are members, friends organized a prayer chain. Chapman worked with a transplant team at Saint Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City, Mo.; the surgeries were to be performed at Children’s Mercy Hospital, a place Kimberly knows well. The staff and 19 years of “love, care and kindness” from the Kidney Center there have been a godsend, said Thompson. She credits Dr. Bradley Warady with the good health Kimberly maintained despite her struggles. Chapman and Kimberly settled in the hospital the day before their surgeries. Even just hours out, any little problem could jeopardize the entire plan. But they made it. The family has no doubt that it was due to the power of prayer.

‘Live a good, happy life’ Their surgeries were on a Monday. That Tuesday, Chapman made her way to Kimberly’s ICU room. Pictures show them together, smiling and laughing — even through a little pain. Chapman had been told that the main effect she should feel afterward was fatigue, which would improve in a few weeks. Ironically, they’d heard that donors sometimes have a harder time of recovery than the recipient — perhaps because the recipient feels good for the first time in a very long time, thanks to a fully functioning kidney. Kimberly thinks her own health history has led her to a medical career. She’s still deciding what kind of nursing she’ll do, but is excited to have started the program. Her mother hopes she’ll finally see how good life can be. Her color is better, and her personality is shining through, said Thompson. And Chapman now wears a silver bracelet from Kimberly that reads “Some people come into our lives, leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never the same.” “She’s amazing,” said Kimberly. “It is a very selfless gift that she gave. I don’t know how to thank her.” “You have, dear,” Chapman assured her. “Live a good, happy life.”

Published weekly September through May, excepting the Friday the week after Thanksgiving, and the Friday after Christmas; biweekly June through August. Address communications to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Phone: (913) 721-1570; fax: (913) 721-5276; or e-mail at: sub@theleaven.com.Postmaster: Send address changes to The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. For change of address, provide old and new address and parish. Subscriptions $18/year. Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.

4 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • AUGUST 26, 2011

NEW FACES IN NEW PLACES

Meet the new principals and presidents at archdiocesan schools |

he smell of crayons and freshly sharpened pencils is in the air. Catholic school students in the archdiocese are officially back in school. But the Catholic school educators — especially the principals and school presidents — started back long before the first bell rang. And this year, more than a dozen of these leaders are in a new place or position. A few are brand-new to the archdiocese. To help families get to know them, each answered a few questions about themselves and about educating Catholic students today.

Diane Liebsch

Atchison Catholic Elementary School, Principal Experience: 36 years as a public school educator; active in youth ministry and at St. Benedict’s Parish; enjoyed numerous connections with ACES Parish: St. Benedict’s, Atchison Best part about new school year: “It’s a joy to watch a Catholic school come alive in midAugust as the teachers start appearing in the building. I love the conversations with our brandnew teachers who are excited to share their faith and knowledge with students.” What families can do: “Have those daily conversations about our Catholic faith and books!” What do you want students to remember about this time? “I hope the students at ACES will create wonderful memories about their Catholic school years and cherish the place where they learned to serve God and their world through special projects.”

Micah L. Neff

Our Lady of Unity School, Kansas City, Kan., Principal Experience: Starting eighth year in archdiocese; has taught fifth-graders through seniors in high school Parish: Our Lady of Unity, Kansas City, Kan. What families can do: “I would ask families to pray with their children every day. One of the missions of our Catholic schools is to instruct and form students in our faith. Parents are the primary teachers, and these important lessons begin at home.” What should students know? “If I could convince each student of only ONE THING, I would convince them that every person is a child of God. Each person in the world deserves dignity and respect. Therefore, treat one another in this manner.” Biggest reward: “The most rewarding part of educating kids today is the challenge. Each day, educators are faced with decisions that directly impact our students’ lives. With God’s guidance, we continue to pass on Jesus’ teachings, just as the apostles once did.” Who inspired you? “My third-grade teacher, Mrs. Price, once told me I was gong to be president of the United States. I can still remember those words clearly. Teachers’ words are very powerful.”

Mary Jo Gates Lynda Higgins, new principal at Resurrection Catholic School at the Cathedral in Kansas City, Kan., speaks with a classroom of fifthgraders on the first day of school Aug. 17. Photo by Lori Wood Habiger

By Jessica Langdon

Principal Denise Perry talks to secondgrader Ariana McGill at Holy Name School, Kansas City, Kan. Photo by Lori Wood Habiger

Lynda Higgins

Stephanie Hill

St. Agnes School, Roeland Park, Principal Experience: Starting 12th year in the archdiocese. Taught fifth through eighth grades for three years at Good Shepherd in Shawnee and for three years at Ascension in Overland Park. She has served for the past five years as principal of St. Paul in Olathe. Before starting her career in education, worked for the Dayton Hudson Corporation in Grand Forks, N.D. Parish: Good Shepherd, Shawnee One thing families can do: “I ask that parents be faithful to their responsibilities as Catholics and as the primary religious educators to their children. The school is first and foremost a school of religious education and is responsible for nurturing the child’s development spiritually and academically. Through this positive partnership, students will learn what it means to be Catholic by having a clear and concise understanding of the Catholic faith. Students will experience what it means to be Catholic and understand the Catholic experience is an encounter with Christ through and with each other, both at school and at home. Students will live what it means to be Catholic. After all, the Gospel message is more than a lesson; it is a way of life.” She’d like to convince each student: “ALL students can learn and succeed . . . but not on the same day in the same way.” Most rewarding: “Helping students learn and succeed! Students have the opportunity to pursue their own potential. They play a role in assessing their own performance and are actively engaged in the learning process. It is so rewarding to me to witness and celebrate their success on a daily basis.” Most challenging: “Responding effectively to each student’s individual learning style.”

Tonia Helm

Denise Perry

Holy Name School, Kansas City, Kan., Principal Experience: Twelve years at Queen of the Holy Rosary (now John Paul II) in Overland Park, involved in many aspects of the school Parish: Curé of Ars, Leawood What each child should know: “That each one of them has a special talent and that they are unique and wonderful people.” Biggest reward: “Watching children grow and achieve.” Her inspiration: “I had a math teacher who, because of teacher changes, taught me for three years from geometry to calculus. He had a great sense of humor, he was strict, but he was also inspiring. He made me love math but, more importantly, he made me want to be the same type of teacher.”

Bobbie Beverlin

Holy Cross School, Overland Park, Principal Experience: Taught kindergarten, first, second and fourth grades in Denver and Kansas City. Served for three years as assistant principal at Prince of Peace School in Olathe. Served one year as an instructional coach at Argentine Middle School, and was the principal at Eugene Ware Elementary, both in Kansas City, Kan., for the past two years. Parish: Prince of Peace, Olathe On the new school year: “My favorite part of starting this school year is meeting all of the new students and families.”

St. Paul School, Olathe, Principal Experience: Six years teaching at Holy Cross in Overland Park, including four years as director of discipline; six years teaching at St. Ann in Prairie Village; two years teaching in Kansas City, Kan. Parish: Holy Cross, Overland Park Favorite part about new school year: “I love the looks on children’s faces when they come into their classroom for the first time.” What families can do: “I would encourage families to find time to pray together every day. It helps children focus on the Lord as a priority.” What each child should know: “I would convince every student that God has a very special plan for their lives that will ensure their happiness. It is up to them to ask him what it is.” Who inspired you? “My biggest inspiration was Sharon Buscher, my eighth-grade homeroom and science teacher at Most Pure Heart of Mary in Topeka. She was always positive, enthusiastic, and you always knew by the way she talked to you that she really cared about you!”

LOCAL NEWS 5

Resurrection Catholic School at the Cathedral, Kansas City, Kan., Principal Experience: 24 years in many areas of education, including teacher, parent educator, substitute teacher. Starting 10th year with the archdiocese; five years as resource teacher at Good Shepherd School in Shawnee and the past four as resource teacher and assistant principal at Resurrection. Parish: Holy Trinity, Lenexa Favorite part of new school year: “Getting to see everyone again and building new relationships. And new school supplies.” Each student should know: “With God, all things are possible.” Most rewarding: “Watching them grow in their faith and acquire knowledge over the course of the year.” How are things different today? “Resurrection Catholic School at the Cathedral is located in the same building as Cathedral of St. Peter Grade School, where both my mom and my husband attended elementary school. The building is very much the same, but what goes on inside is ever changing. We continue to help our students to know, love and serve Christ, just as they have always done.” What do you want students to remember about this time? “I want them to remember that Resurrection was a place where they felt welcome, safe and treated kindly. I hope they take their faith and talents that they developed at Resurrection with them and build on them as they journey through life. “

Bob Ludwikoski

Bishop Miege High School, Roeland Park Principal for academic services Experience: 10 years in Catholic education; the past year as assistant principal at Miege and five years as a teacher at St. James Academy Parish: St. Agnes, Roeland Park Families should: “Love your children, pray with your children, read with your children.” What would you like to convince each child of? “You have a story to tell and a gift to give this world.” Most rewarding part: “Today’s kids have a hunger for truth and appreciate those who present that to them and join them in their journey.” Most challenging? “The most challenging part of educating today’s youth is competing with cultural values that oppose those Catholic values we both teach and attempt to live out in our school community.” What do you want your students to remember about this time? “This is a time for you to discover yourself and share that with others. To do that, we recommend getting involved in the life of the school by joining clubs, going on mission trips, playing sports and having fun!”

Curé of Ars, Leawood, Principal Experience: 16 years in Catholic schools, 15 of those at Holy Cross in Overland Park, where she served as a teacher, vice principal and, for the past four years, principal. Parish: Holy Cross, Overland Park On getting families involved: “I would ask families to each and every day recommit themselves to being as Christ-like as possible. When I was teaching, I used to tell my students that it really didn’t matter to me if they got straight A’s, or were the best athlete, or got the lead in the play if they didn’t learn how to treat each other and how to give of themselves.” One thing each student should know: “I would like to convince all of my students that God has given them a unique set of gifts in order to go out into the world to serve him and others. Those gifts may not be things others or society value, but they have value in God’s eyes.” Her inspiration: “At each level of my own schooling, there was a particular teacher who inspired me.” It was Sister Mary James at Blessed Sacrament School in Kansas City, Kan. At Bishop Ward High School, it was Mrs. Peggy Sumner. At Saint Mary College in Leavenworth, it was Sister Marie Brinkman. “Each of these teachers knew how to connect with her students while expecting nothing less than our best. What great role models!”

Kathy Rhodes

St. Patrick School, Kansas City, Kan., Principal Experience: Eight years in Catholic education. Taught in the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph before becoming principal at Holy Name in Kansas City, Kan. She held that position for the past six years. She also spent three years teaching in public school, worked for several years at a private educational company, and worked for several years at a marketing company. Parish: Prince of Peace, Olathe What families can do to create great Catholic students: “Live like Jesus taught us — being kind and compassionate to everyone — and pray a lot.” Most rewarding part about teaching kids today: “When we see kids absorbing what we taught and incorporating it into their daily lives — not just academics but faith and behaviors, such as manners.” Most challenging part? “There is a lot expected of schools these days, but the biggest challenge is what our students have access to and are exposed to through media — we have to teach them to use these things wisely.” What she wants children to remember about this time in school: “I want students to remember the beauty of our Catholic faith and what a difference it makes in our lives to practice our faith. We try to achieve that by giving students many memorable experiences with it, but mostly by our example.” Who inspired you? “I was trying to follow the will of Jesus in my life and was pretty sure I never wanted to be a school administrator. Proverbs 3:5-6 sums it up: ‘Trust the Lord with all your heart, and don’t depend on your own understanding. Remember the Lord in all you do, and he will give you success.’”

Andy Tylicki

St. James Academy, Lenexa, President Experience: Served the past three years as principal of St. James Academy and, prior to that, was director of activities Parish: Good Shepherd, Shawnee What can families do to help shape the best Catholic school students? “Bring them as they are; we love to work with all students.” If you could convince each student of one thing, it would be: “God created each of us with wonderful spirituality and gifts. Use them to the best of your ability. There are no two of us alike, but God has created each of us individually.” Most challenging: “Being countercultural to today’s pop culture society.” Who inspired you? “My father, Walt Tylicki, who was a longtime educator at Bishop Miege High School. If I could be one-tenth of the man he was, I would be happy.”

Michael Bohaty

Bishop Miege High School, Roeland Park, Principal for student services Experience: This is his 39th year in education — 27th in administration and 24th at Bishop Miege. Parish: Holy Trinity, Weston, Mo. Favorite part about a new school year: “A new start for everyone — faculty, staff, administration, parents and students.” If you could convince each student of one thing, it would be: “To be respectful in all things in your life. All things are a gift from God for a short time in our lives.”

Karen Davis

Xavier Catholic School, Leavenworth, Principal Experience: 20 years in education, 10 of those in Catholic education; spent the past seven years at Our Lady of Unity School in Kansas City, Kan. Parish: Holy Cross, Overland Park Most rewarding part of educating kids today: “Watching our students grow in their own faith and develop a strong relationship with God is priceless!” Who inspired you? “My parents are the biggest inspiration to me — they always told me I could do anything I put my mind to. They also instilled the importance of our Catholic faith in each of us!”

St. James High School’s principal Karla Leibham talks with freshman Abigail Dorsey (left), Allison Power, and Helene Waldeck about their first-day-of-school get-to-know-you exercise in theology class.

Karla Leibham

St. James Academy, Lenexa, Principal Experience: Ten years as a school administrator — eight as associate superintendent of schools of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas Parish: Holy Spirit, Overland Park How families can create the best Catholic students possible: “Recognize that in our ‘partnership,’ we all need to practice what we teach!” Each student should know: “Jesus is our best friend!” Most rewarding part of educating students today: “Seeing them grow in Christ skills!” How have things changed? “Raising my own children was very different! Our phone was connected to the kitchen wall. I worried about my children driving the car and changing radio channels! Our computer was only a word processor! What a difference technology has made for parenting!”

6 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • AUGUST 26, 2011

Elmer Rottinghaus

Outdoor Mass a big attraction at Irish Fest

THE FRENCH CONNECTION Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann continued his whirlwind tour of Europe by visiting the Community of the Lamb in St. Pierre, France. The Little Sisters of the Lamb have established a presence in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and forged a relationship with the archdiocese. Later this month, they will break ground on a new monastery. Above, Archbishop Naumann chats with Little Sister Judith (left) and Little Sister Marie, the first Sister of the community, during his visit to the Sisters’ motherhouse. Left, Ryan Dennihan enters the postulancy of the Community of the Lamb in the presence of Archbishop Naumann and the community’s founders: Little Brother Jean-Claude (standing, left), Little Sister Marie and Little Brother François-Dominique, prior of the Little Brothers of the Lamb.

Wagner’s Mud-Jacking Co. Specializing in Foundation Repairs Mud-jacking and Waterproofing. Serving Lawrence, Topeka and surrounding areas. Topeka (785) 233-3447 Lawrence (785) 749-1696 In business since 1963 www.foundationrepairks.com

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Rory O’Connor, vice president of construction at Livestrong Park in Kansas City, Kan., and a native of Dublin, and Craig Duke, the deputy fire chief for Kansas City, Kan., born in Northern Ireland, share more than a country of origin. They share a passion for the Celtic culture. O’Connor and Duke are part of the organizing team that produces the Kansas City Irish Fest at Crown Center in Kansas City, Mo., over Labor Day weekend. Musicians, dancers, comedians and other performers from around the globe take the stages at the 9th annual Kansas City Irish Fest, Sept. 2-4. “A ton of work and planning go into the Irish Fest,” said O’Connor, “but it’s worth every minute of it. It’s brilliant to see families having fun, enjoying music and learning about the proud heritage and culture of the Irish.” Irish Fest also features the area’s largest outdoor Mass on Sept. 4 at 9:30 a.m. under the canopy at Crown Center. “To see streams of people coming from all directions to be part of a beautiful Irish Mass early on Sunday morning is very gratifying,” said Duke, a member of St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kan. For more information about Irish Fest, go to the website at: www.kcirishfest.com.

6420 Parallel, KCK Life • Home• Auto Commercial

334-2222

1330 Main St. • Kansas City, Mo. 64105 • 816.472.3551 • www.lovebirdkc.com “Come fall in love with lovebird”

Benedictine to honor Dunns during Aug. 30 convocation ATCHISON — Jean and William H. Dunn Sr. will be honored by Benedictine College here on Aug. 30. The couple, known throughout the area as major supporters of both Catholic and educational institutions, will receive the Cross of the Order of St. Benedict during the school’s annual opening convocation. The Cross of the Order of St. Benedict was established in 1969 as a way for the college to recognize alumni and friends who have supported charitable institutions, provided civic or religious leadership, and demonstrated professional excellence. The event is in the Ralph Nolan Gymnasium and will begin at 11 a.m., following an all-school Mass at 9:30 a.m. The convocation will also feature a presentation of the “Do Something Beautiful for God” Award to Father Gerard Senecal, OSB, and a keynote address by Dr. Robert George, professor of jurisprudence at Princeton University and coauthor of the Manhattan Declaration. The event is free and open to the public.

800 SW Sixth Avenue | 785.354.7706 | www.brennanmathenafh.com

Remember your recently deceased loved one by attending a Memorial Mass Saturday, Sept. 3, 2011 9 a.m. Holy Family Chapel Resurrection Cemetery, 83rd & Quivera, Lenexa

unplanned pregnancy? decisions to make? Replace pressure and panic with thoughtful, and rational reflection. A confidential, caring friend is waiting for your call. Topeka- (785) 234-0701 Lawrence- (785) 843-4821 Leavenworth- (913) 682-2700 Kansas City-(816)444-7090 Emporia- (620) 342-8600

IRTHRIGHT

CATHOLIC CEMETERIES

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

913-371-4040 The Blaufuss Team “We want to help you and your family with real estate”

Re/max Realty Suburban, Inc. 12701 W. 87th Pkwy. Lenexa, KS 66215

Contact Jim: 913-226-7442 Contact Julie & Marilyn: 913-647-7118 Office Line: 913-647-7132 We LOVE Referrals!

jimblaufuss@aol.com | www.BlaufussTeam.com

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.

MT CALVARY – KC KS John Aguilar Dolores J. Allman Korena Barnett Hedwig M. Billaci Barbara J. Cobb Joseph M. Collett Floyd G. Decaire Joseph S. Enriquez Sr. Luiz Estrada Constance Garnett Joan M. Glavin Helen M. Grosko Maria C. Gutierrez David M. Hornick Katherine E. Jeselnik Dorothy M. Lane Charles M. Mallon Clair Marnett Edward Marnett Bryan J. McGinley Eugenio Mendez Leona F. Muckenthaler Miriam L. Pearl Stanley B. Rank James T. Rozich Thomas F. Shaw Curtis H. Stevenson Rosa M. Ysaac Stella T. Williams RESURRECTION Samantha Allen Ryan C. Beavers Richard A. Bialek Cathleen S. Bohon Scott D. Carpenter Janet K. Choun Anabelle Rose Chrisman Joseph M. Collett Frederick J. Collins Elizabeth J. Confer George W. Crittenden Ophelia Flores Mabel R. Fry Robert J. Giltner Robert Gutierrez Daniel M. Heimer James P. Hosty John W. Jensen Margaret A. Jewell John S. Kearns Kenneth Klein Ryan E. Kopp Gail A. Lembeck Lowell A. Lueck Jeen H. Lysaught Alfred A. Mannino

Larry R. Marquez Katelyn M. Maxwell Evelyn M. McCain Louise S. McTigue Marie S. Merchant Richard L. Moberly Leonard B. Mueller Robert G. Murray Virginia M. Nash Frances D. Neath Mary E. Nelson Thomas E. O’Neill Jerry W. Ortego Jesse Olivarez Sr. Jane A. Palmer John A. Pazell Lirio A. Petigna Edwin J. Powers Raymond Purkey Sharon L. Purkey Hilary S. Rawert Elizabeth J. Regan Maria Reyes Rita C. Rome Dorothy J. Rose Josephine M. Rozich Betty A. Satterwhite Louis P. Schmiedeler Fred B. Schnittker Trenton Paul Schroeder Thomas F. Shaw Frances L. Smith Blanche R. Spruytte Carl R. Tripp ElFrieda M. Wise Helen M. Yarnevich Mary L. Yulich ST JOSEPH Henry T. Eden Leonard W. Hanks William D. Kinsella Louis L. Urban Frank Vergouven ST JOHN – LENEXA Emma E. Scherman MT CALVARY – OLATHE Xuan Trinh GATE OF HEAVEN Mai Her Leonard B. Ziman ST JOHN – KC KS John L. Quinn

‘Hands and feet of Jesus for Joplin’

L From left, Miege students Jennifer Bowers, Kelsey Wolfe, Mallory Graham, and Sarah Christoph clear large debris from a destroyed home.

Joplin trip makes tragedy personal for Miege students

eeing Joplin in pictures is difficult. Seeing it firsthand is harder. It looks far worse. And to Roeland Park’s Bishop Miege High School senior Kalyn Heyen, it’s incredibly personal. As Miege students on a mission trip picked up debris this summer, they found personal belongings everywhere, things you wouldn’t even think of losing if a disaster struck, said Kalyn. Bridal albums. Rosaries. Old family photographs. It made Kalyn think of the things she hasn’t picked up for a long time back home, things she would be upset about if she lost. The damage in Joplin reminded her of the scene she saw up close in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. As the high school groups worked, she could see her friends realizing the enormity of what happened in Joplin. It seemed to hit everyone at the same time. They suddenly realized how this could happen to them — and how much the little things mean. “It made me much more appreciative of what I have,” said Kalyn. Before, if you’d asked many students what they’d save if they could keep only one thing, they would have said their cellphones, said Bishop Miege campus minister Mary Perrini. Ask them now, and you’ll get a very different answer — maybe something they got from a grandparent who passed away, or something else they could never replace. Joplin’s people and their stories left a permanent mark on the high school students’ hearts. But in their weeklong mission trip in early August, Miege students left their mark on Joplin as well. Miege took 80 students. They were joined by a group from St. Mary’s Colgan High School in Pittsburg, and by seminarians from the Diocese of Wichita and several adult volunteers. They worked through St. Peter the Apostle Church in Joplin. The students cleared fields of insulation and other debris that would be dangerous for animals to eat. They cleaned outside homes that were struck by the fierce winds. A group of Miege students helped ready a tornado-damaged home for the return of its owner, who had been deployed overseas. Kalyn found it sobering to work in a yard near the pond where searchers had found the body of an 18-year-old boy who was on his way home from his high school graduation when the tornado tore him from his vehicle.

ENEXA — Eighth-graders at Holy Trinity School here signed up, dug in, got their hands dirty — and taught their teacher Randy Weber just exactly what they’re made of. As emails flew back and forth between organizers and 35 kids signing up for a mission trip this summer to help tornado-stricken Joplin, Weber started to worry about logistics. But then the history teacher realized something about these kids. “The higher you set the bar,” said Weber, “the more they rise to the occasion.” And rise to the occasion, they did. About half of the eighth-grade class loaded into 11 cars on July 11 for a twoday trip to Joplin. There, they picked up debris, cleaned, sorted donations at a Catholic school, hauled items, and met kids — just regular eighth-graders like themselves — who have survived devastation many can only imagine. “I learned that wherever you go, no matter what happens to you,” Holy Trinity eighth-grader Michaela Stompoly said, “you’re always going to have tremendous support.”

A huge response

Kalyn Heyen signs a wall in a destroyed home. Members of many groups that have helped Joplin in the cleanup process have inscribed the walls of this particular house with inspirational messages. And she’ll never forget the story of a little girl who died in the tornado. The girl’s mother had heard about a surprise the child had been working on leading up to the end of the school year. She learned it was a journal and, after the tornado, she wanted to see it. At the school, which had been decimated by the storm, they found her daughter’s journal — entirely intact — sitting on top of a pile of rubble. When they pulled apart two pages that were stuck together, the pages revealed a picture of a tornado. The stories captured the volunteers’ attention. Renee Schultz, assistant to the campus minister, caught a lot of the group’s work on camera. One of the sites that struck her most deeply was a house, its whole roof gone, covered in Christian messages people have painted. “If you open a closet, every shelf is just covered in positive messages, Bible verses,” said Schultz. It was overwhelming to stand in front of St. Mary School, she said, where walls were crumbled, and everything — from schoolbooks to a “car that’s just rolled into a ball” — lay scattered. And yet, towering above the cleanup crews, the parish’s 40-foot cross still stood. It was clear that in a matter of moments, ordinary life in Joplin was turned upside down. It sent a very poignant message to the Miege students about the significance of the people and places in their own lives. “I think it made us appreciate Miege more and how upset we would be if we were to lose it,” Kalyn said.

For most of the Holy Trinity students, it was just another day of summer vacation when the email arrived. In it, Holy Trinity’s associate principal Lisa Blaes invited the entire class of incoming eighth-graders on a mission trip. Michaela was watching TV when her dad told her about it. “Cool. . . . I want to go really bad,” she told him. When later asked why, her answer was simple: “Because I knew that it would help people a lot. And if this had happened to me or people in my community, then I would want people to help me.” Alexis Cucchiara started getting text messages asking if she was going. Her initial “I don’t know” quickly turned into a resounding “Yes!” “It sounds like a good way to help people, and it also sounds like a lot of fun,” she said. The teens knew all about the EF5 tornado that devastated Joplin May 22, killing more than 150 people, injuring hundreds more, and tearing apart even more homes, businesses and other buildings. They worried for the people. Some of them have family ties there. Ryan Lobb’s mom grew up not far away in Pittsburg, and the Lobb family made their own trip to the area not long after the tornado. But Ryan was eager to go again on the mission trip with his class. Alexis’ mom is also from the area, and Weber and Holy Trinity resource teacher Mary Pintar grew up in Pittsburg.

Doing more The tornado struck Joplin the Sunday before the last week of school. That didn’t leave much time for a fundraiser, but Weber was determined to do one at Holy Trinity. He went to each classroom to “make it personal.” And he promised a prize he knew everyone would want to the class that brought in the most money. The incentive? Shaving his head. “Competition” plus “teacher humiliation” added up to a huge success. Instead of raising the $2,000-$3,000 they expected, the classes collected closer to $8,000 — and all the teachers got to “take a whack” at his hair. Weber thinks the “making it personal” part sparked an interest in doing more. Their success got Weber and Blaes thinking about a mission trip.

Help provided Parishioners across the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas gave nearly a quarter of a million dollars to help areas struggling after tornadoes this spring. In all, the archdiocese collected $249,572. A major portion of the funds will go to Joplin, Mo., although financial help will also be given to Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas to help the tornado-stricken Reading area and to the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops to help other areas that were hit by violent tornadoes.

From left, Alex Kinnan, Michaela Stompoly, Jack Lind, Ryan Lobb, and Monica Sneed clear fields of insulation and other debris that would be dangerous for animals to eat. From left, Jake Stark, Matt Malir, and teacher Randy Weber pack up boxes of donated items. Pintar and her husband went to Joplin this summer. At the end of an intense day of work, she approached the Catholic Charities office there to see what the eighthgraders from Holy Trinity could do. What came of it, Holy Trinity principal Martha Concannon said, was a chance for these students to be “the hands and feet of Jesus for Joplin.”

Hard work, but worth it When the students arrived in Joplin, Grace Vedock was stunned. Was this the city she’d heard so much about? She saw just a normal town — at least in part of the city. “There was literally this line,” she said. On one side, everything looked just fine. On the other, all you saw “were twisted trees and remains of houses and foundations and rubble. . . . It was like the tornado stayed in one place and just hovered there, and it just ripped and ripped and ripped everything.” The group got to work, never complaining about the 100-plus-degree heat or any wait time between assignments. “The first day we went to a farm, and we helped pick up debris from that farm,” said Michaela. The youngsters also spent time at St. Mary Elementary School and St. Peter Middle School, and lunched with some of Joplin’s Catholic eighth-graders. Several had lost their homes — but they chatted like any other teens on all the subjects most important to that age group. “We could relate with them, just talking,” Kayla Staley said. “Then we heard their stories.”

Making connections The Joplin kids’ accounts of the tornado’s devastation struck the young volunteers in different ways. “I was surprised how they weren’t totally sad,” said Elizabeth Arroyo. Likewise, Jack Lind was struck by their smiles.

Most of the St. Mary School building had crumbled under the force of the tornado. While the group was working there, Blaes heard a story about one of the St. Mary’s students — a little girl. A few weeks before the tornado struck, she asked her kindergarten teacher whether the parish’s cross would be destroyed if there were a tornado there. The teacher told her she didn’t know, but hoped not. Indeed, the large cross still stands tall above the rubble, as if unaffected by the EF5 winds. “The power of God is always kind of evident,” said Kayla. Michaela remembered seeing a sign outside another one of the city’s schools. Where the word “Joplin” had once been spelled out on the sign, only the “o” and “p” remained.

ervice is woven into religious education. Seeing Overland Park’s Queen of the Holy Rosary’s Queen Crusaders high school youth group in action this summer, it’s clear that message is getting through. The teens saw a need, organized the trip, collected donations, raised funds to help with expenses — including the bus — and hit the road to help Joplin in any way they could.

Lasting lessons

The mood turned somber as they pulled in . . .

Ongoing need Even more of Holy Trinity’s eighthgraders wanted to go on the trip to Joplin, but the timing didn’t work out. One of the challenges now will be to engage the entire class and make everyone feel a part of the mission. The school is already looking at more trips to the area, and the possibility of adopting a class and having teachers here help the teachers there. Even a couple of days in Joplin showed these young volunteers the work is far from finished. “It’s going to be a long process,” said Pintar. “I hope that people will take away from this that Joplin needs continued support for a long time.” And Joplin folks need look no farther than Lenexa for more assistance — the Holy Trinity students would go back in a heartbeat. “They still need a lot of help,” Jack concluded hopefully.

It also needs people to help in the warehouse sorting clothing and other donations. And it is using volunteers to help in the case management office. Groups interested in setting up mission trips may call Maura Taylor, executive director of Catholic Charities of Southern Missouri, at (417) 866-0841, ext. 124. They may also call the Catholic Charities office in Joplin at (417) 624-3790.

Joplin mission hits home for Queen volunteers

“Someone put an ‘H’ and an ‘e’ so it said ‘Hope,’” said Michaela. Hope was only one of the virtues of the people of Joplin, however. Gratitude was another. No matter how small the job performed seemed to the visiting teens, the people of Joplin were grateful. “Everyone was so appreciative of everything we did,” Alexis said. “It was just a moving experience,” Grace agreed.

Weber talked with some of the students the night they stayed in Joplin and could tell the experience was hitting home. They seemed to be seeing that material things aren’t the important things in life. “Family and friends,” he said, “that’s what’s more important.” “You really are appreciative of all the little things,” Kayla said. “They looked just kind of like us, like “You don’t know what you have and regular people,” he said. You wouldn’t how important it is until you don’t have guess meeting them that they had been it anymore,” Michaela agreed. through so much in the past few months. The students held onto the T-shirts They’re the kind of people you’d like they wore on the two days of the trip. to have met under different circumstanc- Specially designed, the shirts have meses, said Alexis. sages on the back. Grace was impressed with “All works of love are To hear more from their spirit — their optimism. works of peace,” reads one. those who took The Joplin teens were the The other says, “Wherepart in this Joplin same age as the volunteers; soever you go, go with your mission trip and to some of them had lost everyheart.” see more of their thing, yet they were in such Ryan noticed that even pictures, check out good spirits. the people who suffered the video on The “It made us a lot more terrible losses in the Joplin Leaven’s website positive,” said Ryan. tornado are thinking far at: www.theleaven. One of the Holy Trinity beyond their own circumcom. students kept thinking about stances. his faith through it all, said “Everyone in the comBlaes. He knew he would have that to munity is just trying to help everyone rely on if something like this ever hap- else,” he said. pened in his own life.

Finding hope and faith

The need continues The groups that have traveled to Joplin will tell you the work is nowhere near complete. Catholic Charities of Southern Missouri is looking at the needs that lie ahead. With a pressing need for housing, it will be putting together teams to work under contractors. Experienced electricians and plumbers would help in that area. Catholic Charities needs advance notice for volunteers who wish to help in this way.

“When we first approached the devastated area, the kids got really quiet on the bus because of the shock of seeing this for the first time.” — Dawn P. There was so much damage, so close to home . . . “When I first saw the devastation, it reminded me of Haiti.” — Sam H. “The devastation reminded me of Greensburg.” — Dawn They found sadness… “The saddest story was seeing the whole devastation.” — Sam “The saddest part was seeing small children affected by the tornado.” — Dawn But the work was rewarding . . . “I was able to help with building and sorting . . . and the heat just hung in the air. I found that even though I was really tired from the heat, I didn’t want to stop or give up because there was so much to do.” — Queen Crusaders member And they brought what they learned there home with them . . . “I appreciate my family more . . . I have a storm kit in order to be prepared for an emergency.” — Dawn “To appreciate what we have, but that it can happen anywhere . . . not just in places where there is war or man-made destruction.” — Sheryl L.

Queen of the Holy Rosary parishioners Bryan Zawada (left) and Harley Astorga build a table for one of the warehouses where donated items are separated and stored.

“I went down because it was something for me to do with my friends, and I thought I would be cool and be able to tell my friends at school that I went down to help in Joplin. It was unbelievable and I came away humbled and embarrassed by my first thinking. I signed on for selfish reasons and came away very much realizing that this can happen to anyone — anytime — and I need to be there for anyone — anytime. I realized that I need to focus my “Think, Speak and Act” as Jesus wants each of us to do.” — Queen Crusaders member And they each have a reason to help again, because the work isn’t done . . . “To continue to help the residents rebuild and provide hope.” — Dawn “If I returned, the biggest reason would be to continue helping them build back their town and life.” — Sam “People’s spirits are so important, but how many of [us] think about that each day? It is time to start being an unselfish society. I am glad I did this because it brought me back to feeling God’s call to me to care and love for one another.” — Queen Crusaders member

THE LEAVEN • AUGUST 26, 2011 Marcia and Steve Nicely, members of Holy Angels Parish in Basehor, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 5. The couple was married on Aug. 5, 1961, at St. Theodore Church in Albert Lea, Minn. Their children and ANNIVERSARIES their spouses are: Christopher and Sharon Nicely; William and Joan Nicely; Daniel Nicely; and Benjamin and Meg Nicely. They also have seven grandchildren.

Jerry and Wanda Eck, members of St. Francis Xavier Parish in Mayetta, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept. 2. The couple was married at St. Dominic Church in Holton on Sept. 2, 1961. The couple’s children and their families have a special evening planned for them. Their children and their spouses are: Kevin and Kelly Eck; DJ and Kristi Chance; and Ken and Lori Eck, all of Mayetta. They also have eight grandchildren.

Wilfred and Ruth (Heinen) Ronnebaum, members of Sts. Peter and Paul Parish in Seneca, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept. 4. The couple was married on Sept. 4, 1961, at St. Bede Church in Kelly. They will have a Mass of thanksgiving at Sts. Peter and Paul at 11 a.m. , followed by dinner for relatives and friends, and later an open house from 2 to 4 p.m. at Valentino’s in Seneca. Their children and their spouses are: Shirley and Dwayne Miller, St. George; Lynn and Elaine Ronnebaum, Lenexa; Janelle Ronnebaum (deceased); Janet and David Vance, Wamego; and Brian and Babette Ronnebaum, Fort Worth, Texas. They also have eight grandchildren and two stepgrandchildren.

Beverly and John Geary, members of Our Lady of Unity Parish in Kansas City, Kan., celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary at their home with family. The couple was married on Aug. 22, 1951, at Blessed Sacrament Church in Kansas City, Kan. They have three children, six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Dorothy and Joseph Ginzel, members of St. Patrick Parish, Osage City, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept. 2. Their children and their spouses are: Joey and Lisa Ginzel; John and Lori Ginzel; and Christopher Ginzel. They also have 14 grandchildren and two great-grandsons. Their marriage will be blessed on Sept. 3 during the 6 p.m. Mass, followed by a reception in St. Brigid Hall from 7 to 9 p.m. The event will be hosted by their children. Ben and Nadine (Ronnau) Wano, members of the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kan., celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on Aug. 25. The couple was married on Aug. 25, 1951, in St. Marys. They have a son and daughter-inlaw: Ben and Jill Wano, Kansas City, Kan.

George and Rosalie Schweiger, members of Good Shepherd Parish in Shawnee, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 19. The couple was married at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, Kansas City, Mo. Their children and their spouses are: Karen and Dan McDonald; Donald Schweiger; Patrick Schweiger; John and Lori Schweiger; MaryBeth and Michael McGhee; and Madeline Varvel. They also have eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. The couple celebrated their 50 years of marriage at Yellowstone National Park. Anna Marie (Haugh) and Robert Wagner, members of St. Pius X Parish, Mission, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 27 with a Mass and reception, hosted by their children: Daniel, Gretchen, and Paul. They also have three granddaughters. The couple was married on Aug. 26, 1961, at Guardian Angels Church, Kansas City, Mo.

Lawrence J. and Patricia A. (Martin) Eker, members of Holy Family Parish, Kansas City, Kan., will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on Sept. 1. The couple was married at Blessed Sacrament Church in Kansas City, Kan. Their children and their spouses are: Larry Eker, Kansas City, Kan.; Mary and Randy Ward, Roeland Park; Tim and Veronica Eker, Roeland Park; Madonna and Dan McMenamy, St. John, Ind.; and Elaine and Steve Colbert, Shawnee. They also have 14 grandchildren and seven great-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, or for those who resided in the archdiocese for a significant period of time. Please include the following Information: • The couple’s names; their parish; the date they were married; church and city where they were married; what they are doing to celebrate; date of the celebration; names of children (if desired); number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; photo. Photos that are sent via email need to be at least 200 dpi. Mailed photos should be on photo paper and printed at a photo lab. Photos that are printed from home printers do not reproduce well. Send notices to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, attn: anniversaries; or send an email to: Todd@the leaven.com. If you would like your photo returned to you, please include a self-addressed stamped envelope.

LOCAL NEWS 11 Parish staffs invited to archdiocesan convocation KANSAS CITY, Kan. — The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas will host “Holy Lives, Holy Service,” the first Convocation of Parish Ministries, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sept. 15 at Savior Pastoral Center here, at 12615 Parallel Pkwy. All pastors, deacons, parish leaders and parish staff are invited. At the convocation, participants will pray and enjoy fellowship together, while learning more about the mission and ministry of the church in northeast Kansas. Formal invitations will be sent soon. There is no cost to attend, but registration is required. To register, go to the archdiocesan website at: www.archkck.org (click on the “Learn more and register here” link under the heading, “Convocation of Parish Ministries”). You may also contact Tim Chik, director of Savior Pastoral Center, at (913) 721-1570 or, via email, at: tchik@archkck.org.

New director of associates named for Sisters of Charity LEAVENWORTH — Terri Butel, a member of St. Thomas More Parish in Kansas City, Mo., has joined the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth as the first lay director of associates. The associates are a group of men and women who identify with the mission and spirit and share in the ministries of the religious community. Terri Butel Butel became an associate in 2001 and served two terms on the associate advisory board before assuming her job responsibilities in Leavenworth on Aug. 1. Butel was a Jubilee Scholar at the University of Saint Mary in Leavenworth, where she earned a double major in biology and chemistry. She completed medical technology training at Saint Luke’s Hospital School of Medical Technology in Kansas City, Mo. Since 1996, Butel was general manager of MAWD Pathology Group, an organization that provides laboratory services for five hospitals, six ambulatory surgery centers and numerous physician offices in the Greater Kansas City metropolitan area.

12 CLASSIFIEDS Employment Director of Catholic action - Guide processes for formation of the heart, develop strong linkages with existing parish social ministries across the archdiocese and facilitate development of new parish social ministries. Coordinate advocacy efforts to create meaningful volunteer opportunities. Candidates should have 5-plus years experience in parish/diocesan ministry; a deep understanding of Catholic social teaching and passion for service; experience creating/teaching curriculum to diverse populations; appropriate educational credentials with a preference for a master’s degree in theology, religious studies or pastoral ministry. Send resume, via email to: jobs@ catholiccharitiesks.org. Reference the job req. #SM02 in the subject line of your email. Director of family strengthening - Guide family strengthening programs and ministries, including counseling, mentoring, early education, child placement and senior socialization ministries within the context of the church’s mission to serve those in need. Candidates should have 5-plus years experience, including supervisory, in nonprofit; an understanding of outcomes measurement and its application to human services monitoring; business acumen; appropriate educational credentials with a preference for a master’s of social work with an administrative emphasis. Send resume, via email, to: jobs@catholic charitiesks.org. Reference the job req. #SM01 in the subject line of your email. Care providers needed - For child with autism in Mission. Primarily Mon. - Fri. from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., with evening and weekend flexibility preferred. Training required. If interested, contact Eileen at (785) 3170220 or send an email to her at: eileen.madelen@ gmail.com. Part-time director of music/choir - For Christ the King Parish, Kansas City, Kan., A bachelor’s degree in music, experience in church music and liturgy, and the ability to work in a diverse faith-filled environment are necessary. For a job description or application, call the parish office at (913) 287-8823 or send an email to: connieheffern@yahoo.com. Child care coordinator - St. Ann Young Child Center, Prairie Village, is seeking to fill this position for its extended care program. Hours are 3 - 6 p.m., Mon. - Fri. Must be at least 21 years of age and have a minimum of 12 college credit hours in early childhood or elementary education. Starting pay is $12 per hour. If interested, call Tati at (913) 362-4660. Preschool Spanish teacher - St. Ann Young Child Center, Prairie Village, is seeking a part-time Spanish teacher. Call Tati at (816) 716-4676. Financial representative - Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding financial representatives in the Kansas City area. This position is ideal for a determined, high-energy, high-expectation, professional, self-disciplined, independent individual desiring to serve others, yet earn a better-than-average income. We provide top-rated financial products to our members and their families and will provide excellent benefits and training. For information or an interview, contact John A. Mahon, 307 Dakota, Holton KS 66436; or call (785) 364-5450.

Services Math tutor - For students grades 1 - 12. Johnson County area. Retired Avila University faculty member. Call Mr. Smith at (913) 236-4495. Need help with QuickBooks? - I provide setup, customization, and maintenance; quarterly and/ or yearly accounting; and support for your certified public accountant. I can help with balancing monthly statements and providing profit and expense tracking. Call Ann at Evans Consulting LLC at (913) 406-9778 or send an email to: Annevans401@gmail.com. Member of Curé of Ars Parish. Machine quilting - by Jenell Noeth, Basehor. Also, quilts made to order. Call (913) 724-1837. DJ’s delivery service - Moving, hauling and deliveries. Low flat rates and same-day service. No job too big or too small. Always on time; affordable and reliable. Excellent service. Contact DJ at (913) 219-1771. Foley’s Lawn Care Mowing, landscaping installation & maintenance Serving Johnson County for over 10 years. For a free estimate, call (913) 825-4353 or send an email to: john@foleyslawncare.com. Mention this ad to receive a 10% discount on labor for landscape installation.

THE LEAVEN • AUGUST 26, 2011 Landscaping All projects – small to large Local parishioner Free estimates. Insured; excellent references. Call Tony at (913) 620-6063 Tree service - Pruning trees for optimal growth and beauty and removal of hazardous limbs or problem trees. Free consultation and bid. Safe, insured, professional. Cristofer Estrada, Green Solutions of KC, (913) 378-5872. www.GreenSolutionsKC.com. Semi-retired arborist - Available for tree and shrub trimming. Call Bob at (913) 231- 6460. Faith-based counseling to cope with life concerns - Kansas City area. Call Mary Vorsten, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, at (913) 909-2002. Housecleaning - Old-fashioned cleaning, hand mopping, etc. A thorough and consistent job every time. References from customers I’ve served for over 17 years. Call Sharon at (816) 322-0006 (home) or (816) 214-0156 (mobile). Speed up your computer for only $25! - Clean up files, erase unwanted programs, and optimize processor usage. $25 per hour; one hour minimum. Most computers only take one hour. Call Gibson at (913) 244-7123. Computer repair and upgrades/virus, spyware & malware removal - Microsoft certified, 11+ yrs. experience. Member of Sacred Heart Parish. Call Matt at (816) 876-6619 or send an email to him at: mattcomputerfix@gmail.com. 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 email to: tkidd@kc.rr.com.

Caregiving Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation to the elderly and disabled in home, assisted living and nursing facilities. We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Laurie, Debbie or Gary. Looking for high quality home care? Whether you’re looking to introduce care for your family or simply looking to improve your current home care quality, we can help. Our unique approach to home care has earned us a 99% client satisfaction rating among the 1,000-plus families we have assisted. We are familyowned and based in Lenexa. Call Benefits of HomeSenior Care at (913) 422-1591 or visit our Website at: www.benefitsofhome.com.

Home Improvement Exterior painting, drywall projects, wood rot repair, bathroom and kitchen remodels, - Quality products. 20 years experience. References. Call (913) 206-4524. Interior and exterior painting and wallpaper removal - 30-plus years experience. Quality work; excellent references; reasonable rates. Senior discount. Member of St. Ann Parish, Prairie Village. Call Joe at (913) 620-5776. Heating and air conditioning services - For Johnson, Wyandotte and northern Miami counties. 20 years experience. Seasonal tune-ups, full system replacements and everything in between. Call Jon at (913) 850-3376. Detail construction and remodeling - We offer a full line of home remodeling services. Don’t move — remodel! Johnson county area. Call for a free quote. (913) 709-8401. Garage door and opener sales and service 24-hour, 7 day-a-week service on all types of doors. Replace broken springs, cables, hinges, rollers, gate openers, entry and patio doors, and more. Over 32 years of experience. Call (913) 227-4902. Masonry work - Quality, new or repair work. Brick, block and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; secondgeneration bricklayer. Member of St. Paul Parish, Olathe. Call (913) 829-4336. Brick masons - Installation and repair of all types of masonry work — brick, stone, and concrete. 17 years of residential and commercial experience. Small and large jobs accepted. KC Metro area. For a free quote, call Jim or John at (913) 485-4307.

THE LEAVEN • AUGUST 26, 2011 Swalms Organizing Service - Basement, attic, garage, office, shop – any room organized. Items sorted, grouped, boxed and labeled; areas clean when finished. 20 years experience. $30/hour. Spring special: first two hours FREE with any organizing job lasting one day or longer. To view pictures of current jobs, visit the website at: www.swalms.com. Tillar Swalm (913) 375-9115. Insured! Clutter getting you down? Organize, fix, assemble, clean . . . we do it all! For a free consultation, call your professional organizing handyman, Kevin Hogan, M.Ed., today at (913) 271-5055. Insured; references. Visit the website at: www.koatindustries.com. Adept Home Improvements Where quality still counts! Basement finishing, Kitchens and baths, Electrical and plumbing, Licensed and insured. (913) 599-7998

Hop, skip and a jump to St. Agnes Elementary or Bishop Miege High School - Charming bungalow in ideal location. 5060 Canterbury, Roeland Park. 2 BR, 1-1/2 BA, numerous updates/upgrades, including: heat pump system; all new thermal windows; complete main bath renovation; lead glass front door and storm doors; garage door, opener and transmitter; most lighting fixtures; newer appliances in kitchen, plus new flooring, countertop, sink, plumbing, backsplash and paint; two living areas and in-house laundry room off 1/2 bath. $127,500. Call Kathleen Durkin, Reece & Nichols Realty, at (913) 205-5028.

For Sale Sofa - Comfortable, 81” blue-and-cream-check sofa in excellent condition. From a home with no pets, children or smoking. No tears, rips or stains. Slightly used. $250. Overland Park. Call (913) 851-2875.

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

Residential lifts - Buy/sell/trade. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. Recycled and new equipment. Member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood. Call Silver Cross KC at (913) 327-5557.

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

For sale - Four burial plots in Ascension Garden at Resurrection Cemetery, Lenexa. Section A 113. Will split two and two, or sell all four together. $1,700 each. Call Darlene at (913) 322-1946.

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

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

The Drywall Doctor, Inc. - A unique solution to your drywall problems! We fix all types of ceiling and wall damage — from water stains and stress cracks to texture repairs and skim coating. We provide professional, timely repairs and leave the job site clean! Leadcertified and insured! Serving the metro since 1997. Call (913) 768-6655. STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Free estimates. Call (913) 4915837 or (913) 579-1835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail. com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa. Father and son team - We do roofing, windows, doors, siding, brick masonry, all types of wood rot, fences and decks, retaining walls, landscaping and concrete. You name it, we can do it — no job to big or small. Reasonable prices; fully insured. Call Josh at (913) 709-7230. Custom countertops - Laminates installed within 5 days. Cambria, granite, and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee. EL SOL Y LA TIERRA *Commercial & residential * Lawn renovation* Mowing * Clean-up and hauling * Dirt grading/installation * Landscape design * Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!! Call Lupe at (816) 252-3376

For Rent For rent or sale - 1117 N. 25th St., Kansas City, Kan. Cute, 2 BR, 1 BA bungalow with all hardwood floors, beamed ceilings, a sunroom, and a one-car garage. $600/month rent. A great investment property at only $62,000. Call Walter at (913) 302-4051. For rent - 2 BR condo; Prairie Village. First floor; overlooking pool. DeVille 75, at 75th and Nall. $750/ month; includes water. Call Mike at (913) 961-2421. For rent - 1 BR, 1 BA apartment in Shawnee near Nieman and Johnson Dr. $500/month; utilities included. 10911 W. 59th Terr. For a virtual tour, visit the website at: www.shawnee-rentals.com. (913) 6497596.

Real Estate Overland Park - 15407 Floyd in St. Michael the Archangel Parish. One-and-a-half-story home with 3 BR and 2-1/2 BA. Finished lower level. Lawn care, snow removal and exterior painting provided. $198,900. For information, call Mike Slaven, Windham Realty, at (913) 568-8689. MLS #1735806. Awesome Roeland Park ranch - 5122 Clark Dr. Move-in-ready condition. 2 BR, 1 BA. $169,500. Call (913) 206-7109 or stop by and grab a flyer out front.

Wanted to buy Want to buy Antique or vintage jewelry Single pieces or entire estate Renee Maderak (913) 631-7179 St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee Will buy firearms and related accessories - One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee. ***WANTED*** I buy coins, older watches, silverware, slot machines, old rifles and shotguns, stoneware crocks and jugs, old furniture from basement or attic. Call Chris at (913) 593-7507 or (913) 642-8269

Vacation Branson condo nightly rental - 2 king BRs, 2 BA; sleeps 6. Sun porch overlooks public golf course. Walkin level (no steps), flat screen TVs, DVD player, filtered water and fully equipped kitchen. Two blks. from the Hwy. 76 strip. Easy to get to shows, Walmart, groceries, dining. No smoking; no pets. Parishioners of Holy Cross, Overland Park. Call (913) 851-8886. Visit paradise - Lease Olde Naples, Fla., 2 BR, 2 BA, furnished, luxury condo. Only 2-1/2 blocks to beach and 5th Ave. South. Season is Oct. 1 - May 31, or let me know when you wish to visit. Call Andy at (913) 839-2547. Lake of the Ozarks rental – Unique treetop village. Tree loft sleeps up to 8 people. 4 BR, 2-1/2 BA. For information, visit the website at: http://tree topvillage.org. One week beginning Sept. 9. $750, plus $250 refundable damage deposit. No smoking; no pets. Call (913) 226-4476 or send an email to: FHS1955@gmail.com.

Aug. 27

Christ the King Church, 3024 N. 53rd St., Kansas City, Kan., will host its annual ice cream social from 6 - 10 p.m. on Aug. 27. There will also be cake, povitica, bingo, a raffle, and dancing.

The Knights of Columbus, Council No. 2332, Shawnee, will host a family summer picnic from 1 p.m. until dark on Aug. 28 at their park, located at Shawnee Mission Pkwy. and Midland Drive. This event is free and open to the public. Food and beverages will be available to purchase. The Daughters of Isabella, Little Flower Circle No. 503, will host a covered dish luncheon at noon on Aug. 28 at Rossiter Hall, 204 S.W. 8th, Topeka. A business meeting will follow at 1 p.m. Birthright of Greater Kansas City, 6309 Walnut, Kansas City, Mo., will celebrate its 40th anniversary with an open house from 1 - 4 p.m. on Aug. 28. The celebration is open to the public and will include prizes, refreshments, children’s games and facility tours. St. Joseph Church, 705 Spring Garden, Atchison, will host a bazaar and brisket dinner from 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. on Aug. 28. The cost is $8 for adults; $4 for children. Carryouts and delivery will be available; call (913) 367-4535. There will also be fancy work, craft booths, bingo and children’s games.

30 Benedictine College, 1020 N. 2nd St., Atchison, will host a presen-

tation by leading conservative political thinker and coauthor of the Manhattan Declaration Dr. Robert George at 11 a.m. on Aug. 30 in the O’Malley-McAllister Auditorium, located on the main campus. This event is free and open to the public.

The Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan., will offer a program, “Plan for Success: How to Help Kids Get and Stay Organized This School Year,” presented by Lee Stephenson, a professional organizer and educational consultant, from 9:30 - 11 a.m. on Aug. 31. Register by Aug. 26 to receive a free organizational tool recommended by the speaker. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the website at: www.mountosb.org/kwc. Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan., will offer a financial presentation, “How to Make Wise Spending Choices . . . and Stay on a Budget,” from 1 - 2:30 p.m. on Aug. 31. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the website at: www. mountosb.org/kwc.

Sept.

Misc. Housesitting - Grandmother wanting to be closer to grandchildren this winter is seeking a housesitting arrangement in the KC metro area. Personal references available. Call Lori at (712) 288-5744. El Centro Academy for Children - Located at 1330 S. 30th St., Kansas City, Kan., is now enrolling children ages 2-1/2 through 5 years. Licensed and nationally accredited. Full day; dual language – English and Spanish. For information or to schedule a visit, call (913) 677-0100 or visit the website at: www.el centroinc.com.

All Christians are invited to participate in a Taizé prayer service at 7 p.m. on Sept. 1, and every first Thursday of the month, at Annunciation Chapel, located on the Leavenworth campus of the Sisters of Charity, 4200 S. 4th St. Taizé prayer is a meditative, candlelit service

that includes repeated chants, silence, and prayers of praise and intercession. The Taizé prayer tradition emerged from an ecumenical community of monks in Taizé, France. For information, call (913) 758-6572 or visit the website at: www. marillaccenter.org.

3-4

The Militia of Immaculata will host a two-day spiritual combat mission on Sept. 3 - 4 at Redemptorist Church, 3333 Broadway, Kansas City, Mo. Registration begins on Sept. 3 at 8:30 a.m., followed by Mass at 9 a.m. The cost of $48 includes lunch on both days. For information, contact Christine Rossi at (913) 268-0208.

The St. Ann Altar Society at Sts. Peter and Paul Church, 411 Pioneer St., Seneca, will host its annual Labor Day picnic on Sept. 4 on the church grounds. A roast beef and ham dinner will be served, beginning at 4:30 p.m. The cost is $7 for adults; $4 for children. There will also be games, bingo, a beer garden and concessions, beginning at 5 p.m.; a live auction at 8:30 p.m.; and a dance from 8:30 - 11:30 p.m. in the Knights of Columbus Hall. Dance admission is $3. The Sanctuary of Hope Prayer and Retreat Center, Kansas City, Kan., will host KC Showdance, a fundraising evening featuring an Elvis impersonation show by Bobby Simpkins. A rock ’n’ roll dance with music by Zepster the DJ follows from 6:30 - 11:30 p.m. on Sept. 4 at the Camelot Ballroom, 6635 W. 151st St., Overland Park. To purchase tickets, call Julie at (913) 321-4673. The cost is $15 if purchased by Aug. 27; $20 at the door.

The Atchison Region Serra Club will host a meeting from 7 - 8:30 p.m. on Sept. 6 in the ACES chapel, 201 Division St., beginning with a Mass for vocations. For information, call Tim or Susan at (913) 367-2227. Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan., hosts a monthly book club for women every first Tuesday from 6 - 7:30 p.m. This month’s book is “The Scent of Rain and Lightning” by Nancy Pickard. Space is limited. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the website at: www.mountosb.org/kwc.

Donnelly College, 608 N. 18th St., Kansas City, Kan., will kick off the new academic year with a Convocation Day Mass of the Holy Spirit at 10 a.m. on Sept. 8 at the Cathedral of St. Peter, 409 N. 15th St., Kansas City, Kan. A free luncheon will follow Mass on the Donnelly campus. All who attend are encouraged to wear red to represent the Holy Spirit. To RSVP, visit the website at: www.donnelly.edu/convocationday. Donnelly College, 608 N. 18th St., Kansas City, Kan., will host “Coffee on Campus,” a casual opportunity to learn about all the exciting advancements at Donnelly while enjoying a free cup of coffee, on Sept. 8. Attendees can also request a tour of Donnelly’s campus. For information or to RSVP, send an email to: advancement@donnelly.edu. Women of all ages are invited to study God’s word and enjoy fellowship this fall at the inter-parish Bible study of the Mass, Advent and the Book of Exodus. There will be a children’s Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program for children ages 3 - 12 years; a nursery for younger children; and a study group where young children are welcome to at-

tend with their mothers. The groups will meet during the school year on Thursday mornings, beginning Sept. 8, from 9:30 - 11 a.m. at Holy Trinity Church, 9150 Pflumm, Lenexa. For information or to register, contact Laura Haeusser at (913) 341-9057; Kathryn Burditt at (913) 4513680; or send an email to Kathryn at: tkburditt@hotmail.com.

Holy Cross Church, 8311 W. 93rd St., Overland Park, will host a reunion and Jack Weitkamp Memorial Golf Tournament at Deer Creek Golf Course, Overland Park, on Sept. 9. The cost of $135 per player includes dinner. For information or to register, contact Allison Carney at (913) 244-5970 or send an email to: acarney@holycrosscatholic school.com.

9-11

Sophia Center, 751 S. 8th St., Atchison, will offer a retreat, entitled “The Dream And The Journey,” presented by Sister Therese Elias, OSB, from 7 p.m. on Sept. 9 through 4 p.m. on Sept. 11. This retreat will provide an opportunity to relate to the wisdom and grace found in dreams. Special attention will be given to learning to do personal dreamwork and learning the role of prayer in dreamwork. For information or to register, call (913) 360-6151 or visit the website at: www.mountosb.org/ sophia.html. Mother Teresa of Calcutta Church, 2014 N.W. 46th St., Topeka, will host its Holy Smokin’ Jamboree from Sept. 9 - 11. The festivities will begin at 5 p.m. on Friday evening and continue through Sunday. The annual 5K run/walk, onemile fun run and kiddie run will be held on Saturday morning. Registration begins at 7 a.m.; the races begin at 8 a.m. For a complete listing of events or to register for the races, visit the website at: www.mtcctopeka.org.

Our Lady of Unity Parish will host Unity Fest from 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. on Sept. 10 at Sacred Heart Field, 2646 S. 34th St., Kansas City, Kan. There will be Mexican and American food, live music and dancing, bingo, carnival games and more. For information, call (913) 6774621 or (913) 236-6271. Queen of the Holy Rosary-Wea, 22779 Metcalf, Bucyrus, will host an auction on Sept. 10, following the 4 p.m. Mass. A $40 per person donation is suggested. For information and a listing of silent and live auction items, visit the website at: www.hrauction.org. Interfaith Hospitality Network will host its fifth annual golf classic at 7 a.m. on Sept. 10 at Falcon Ridge Golf Course, 20200 Prairie Star Pkwy., Lenexa. The cost of $100 includes greens fees, lunch and contest awards. For information or to register, visit the Website at: www. jocoihn.org or call (816) 830-0555. Notre Dame de Sion High School, 10631 Wornall Rd., Kansas City, Mo., will host its annual “Halfway to St. Patrick’s Day” auction to benefit the Colleen Conway Holloway Scholarship, from 6:30 - 11 p.m. on Sept. 10 in the gymnasium. For information or to purchase tickets, call (816) 942-3282.

Advice and Aid Pregnancy Centers, Inc., will host a volunteer information meeting from 7 - 9 p.m. on Sept. 13 at 11031 W. 75th Terr., Shawnee. For information or to RSVP, contact Mary Newcomer at (913) 962-0200 or send an email to: volunteer@adviceandaid.com.

CALENDAR 13

Donnelly College, 608 N. 18th St., Kansas City, Kan., will host its annual scholarship dinner at 5:30 p.m. on Sept. 14 at the Jack Reardon Convention Center, Kansas City, Kan. Join us this year to honor Henry Bloch for his steadfast support of Donnelly students through the Henry W. Bloch Scholars program. Proceeds will create an endowed scholarship in Marion Bloch’s name and support Donnelly’s annual fund. To learn more or RSVP, visit the website at: www.donnelly.edu/dinner.

A healing Mass, sponsored by archdiocesan charismatic prayer groups, will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Sept. 15 at Curé of Ars Church, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood. Father Anthony Ouellette, archdiocesan liaison for the charismatic renewal, will preside. Fellowship will follow in the Father Burak Room. For information, call (913) 649-2026.

The women of Queen of the Holy Rosary Church, 7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park, will host a ladies day retreat from 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. on Sept. 17 in the church hall. The seven parts of the Lord’s Prayer will be presented. Check-in will begin at 8:45 a.m. A continental breakfast, retreat folder and lunch will be provided. For information or to register, call Patty Miller at (913) 384-4644. The Cathedral of St. Peter, 409 N. 15th St., Kansas City, Kan., will host its fall festival from 5 - 9 p.m. on Sept. 17. There will be a taco dinner, a silent auction, raffles, music, games for children and more. St. Matthew Church, 2700 S.E. Virginia Ave, Topeka, will host its annual parish dinner and auction on Sept. 17. Social hour will begin at 6:15 p.m., followed by dinner at 7 p.m. and the live auction at 8 p.m. The cost of $40 per person includes hors d’oeuvres, drinks and dinner. For information or to RSVP by Sept. 11, call the parish office at (785) 232-5012 or send an email to: parishoffice@saintmatthews.org. The Ancient Order of Hibernians, Padraig Pearse Division No. 1, will host a membership drive on Sept. 17 in the John J. Sullivan Hall at Redemptorist Church, 3333 Linwood, Kansas City, Mo. A social hour will begin at 5 p.m., followed by a short video presentation. All men 16 years or older, who are practicing Catholics of Irish heritage or born in Ireland. For information, contact Michael Murphy at (816) 797-3565 or send an email to him at: hibernianmike77@ aol.com.

23-25

Does it too often seem that the two of you are going in different directions? A Worldwide Marriage Encounter weekend may be just the thing to get your relationship realigned. The next Worldwide Marriage Encounter weekend will be held from Sept. 23 - 25 at Savior Pastoral Center, 12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call Ralph and Jan Lewis at (913) 400-7173 or visit the website at: www.neksme.org. Sophia Center, 751 S. 8th St., Atchison, will offer a retreat, entitled “Losses Of Our Lives,” from 7 p.m. on Sept. 23 through 1:30 p.m. on Sept. 25. Dr. Nancy Copeland-Payton, a spiritual director, hospital chaplain, physician and author, will be the presenter. For information, call (913) 360-6151 or visit the website at: www.mountosb.org/sophia.html.

14 COMMENTARY

THE LEAVEN • AUGUST 26, 2011

MARK MY WORDS

Catholic Press Association Award Winner

1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011

TWENTY-SECOND WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Aug. 28 TWENTY-SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Jer 20: 7-9; Ps 63: 2-6, 8-9; Rom 12: 1-2; Mt 16: 21-27 Aug. 29 The Martyrdom of John the Baptist 1 Thes 4: 13-18; Ps 96: 1, 3-5, 11-13; Mk 6: 17-29 Aug. 30 Tuesday 1 Thes 5: 1-6, 9-11; Ps 27: 1, 4, 13-14; Lk 4: 31-37 Aug. 31 Wednesday Col 1: 1-8; Ps 52: 10-11; Lk 4: 38-44 Sept. 1 Thursday Col 1: 9-14; Ps 98: 2-6; Lk 5: 1-11 Sept. 2 Friday Col 1: 15-20; Ps 100: 1-5; Lk 5: 33-39 Sept. 3 Gregory the Great, pope, doctor of the church Col 1: 21-23; Ps 54: 3-4, 6, 8; Lk 6: 1-5

TWENTY-THIRD WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Sept. 4 TWENTY-THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Ez 33: 7-9; Ps 95: 1-2, 6-9; Rom 13: 8-10; Mt 18: 15-20 Sept. 5 Monday Col 1:24 — 2:3; Ps 62: 6-7, 9; Lk 6: 6-11 Sept. 6 Tuesday Col 2: 6-15; Ps 145: 1-2, 8-11; Lk 6: 12-19 Sept. 7 Wednesday Col 3: 1-11; Ps 145: 2-3, 10-13; Lk 6: 20-26 Sept. 8 THE NATIVITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY Mi 5: 1-4a; Ps 13: 6; Mt 1: 1-16, 18-23 Sept. 9 Peter Claver, priest 1 Tm 1: 1-2, 12-14; Ps 16: 1-2, 5, 7-8, 11; Lk 6: 39-42 Sept. 10 Saturday 1 Tm 1: 15-17; Ps 113: 1-7; Lk 6: 43-49

INSIDE CATHOLIC CHARITIES

Is it time to get tattoos?

eware of the two women pictured on the page to the right. They will turn your world upside down. A couple of months ago, I had lunch with Jan Lewis, the executive director of Catholic Charities. She asked if I’d read a book, which, in her opinion, movingly captured what the church is truly all about. Given her high praise for it, I immediately picked up a copy of the book and, as is typical for me, plopped it on my (towering) “to-read” pile. Fast forward a few weeks later, when I ran into Kathy O’Hara, the superintendent of archdiocesan schools. She said, “I hope that I’m not going to embarrass myself, but I have a great book for you to read.” Kathy was worried that I’d not only read the book already, but had written a column on it. (I hadn’t and I didn’t.) Want to guess what the book was? That’s right: the same one that Jan had recommended. Well, I went right home, rummaged in my reading pile and pulled out Gregory Boyle’s “Tattoos on the Heart: The Power of Boundless Compassion” (New York: Free Press, 2010; 217 pgs.; $14). Wow. All I can say is: Those two women know a good book when they read one. Author Gregory Boyle is actually Father Gregory Boyle, a Jesuit priest who founded and has run Homeboy Industries, a gang-intervention program in Los Angeles for the past 20 years. Known affectionately as G or G-dog by the “homies,” this book provides an unvarnished peek into the brutal world of gangs from someone who lives there. This isn’t a sanitized sociology study, but real stories of real people who have come in and out of G’s life during his time as pastor of Dolores Mission Church, the poorest parish in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. The book consists of nine chapters, each filled with brief glimpses of gang

members that G has dealt with. From these experiences, the author distills some lessons about the working of God in these often darkest of places. The reader knows what he or she is in for from the opening few words of the first chapter, where G writes: “God can get tiny, if we’re not careful.” His point is that we often make God into our own image and likeness, rather than the other way around. He writes: “How much greater is the God we have than the one we think we have. . . . [T]he truth of God seems to be about a joy that is a foreigner to disappointment and disapproval.” If nothing else — and he honestly does so much more — G-dog puts a human face on gang members. If you’ve ever listened to the news of drive-by shootings, for example, and found yourself wondering what would make people act this way, you’ll get some tremendous insights from “Tattoos.” The God who is found in these pages is not some lofty, saccharine, academic formula. It is an incarnational God: “Jesus was not a man for others. He was one with others. . . . The strategy of Jesus is not centered in taking the right stand on issues, but rather in standing in the right place — with the outcast and those relegated to the margins.” And that is exactly where G finds himself. There are stories here that will break your heart, make you laugh, depress you, encourage you, and probably even upset you. The language is that of the street, which means that sometimes it will of-

fend delicate ears. It’s likely that readers will come away with many misconceptions shattered. For instance, I never picture gang members as being primarily teenagers or young adults. Many come from families where parents are nonexistent, addicts of some sort, or suffering from mental illnesses — an “environment that keeps [gang members] unsettled and crazed.” It was news to me how often gang members cry, that many feel such a “lethal absence of hope” that they “form an exclusive club of young people who plan their funerals and not their futures.” In fact, at the time of this book’s publication, G-dog had already done the funerals of 168 gang members. I never considered that the bad behavior of “homies” might actually be “the vocabulary of the deeply wounded and of those whose burdens are more than they can bear.” This is an honest book about steps forward and steps backward. G’s picture of gang members is neither overly simplified nor overly sympathetic, but comes from one who knows his community well and can help those of us who don’t, to widen our perspective and understanding. Ultimately, Father Boyle wants readers to develop “a compassion that can stand in awe at what the poor have to carry, rather than stand in judgment at how they carry it.” This is a book for pondering. It’s a challenge and an encouragement to become firme, which means “could not be one bit better.” It is a wise teacher about what faith is ultimately meant to be. The Christian mystic and social activist Simone Weil reminds us: “Those who are unhappy have no need for anything in this world, but people capable of giving them their attention.” Simply taking the time to read “Tattoos” would be a great step in that direction.

SECOND THOUGHTS ON THE SECOND READING

Christians called to live sacrificial lives

t is a terrifying scene. The sacrificial victim struggles in vain against the ropes that bind him to the altar, as the priest lowers the knife to split open his chest. Chanting a hymn to the fierce war god, the priest holds up high the still-beating heart. Human sacrifice once characterized many of the pre-Colombian religions of the New World. For example, TWENTY-SECOND when the Aztecs SUNDAY IN dedicated the ORDINARY TIME Great Pyramid Rom 12: 1-2 of Tenochtitlan in Mexico City in 1487, they reportedly sacrificed 80,400 persons. The streets ran with blood. It took 20 days, with four altars in constant operation day and night. The Hebrew religion of the Old Testament repudiated human sacrifice as contrary to God’s wishes, even though it was a common practice among neighboring peoples. At the same time, worship in the temple of Jerusalem included animal sacrifice. Bulls, goats, sheep and turtledoves were offered on the altar. This continued through the time of Jesus, up until the temple was destroyed, in the year 70.

In making a sacrifice, the victim’s throat was slit and its blood poured around the altar, because blood stood for life. In a sense, the real sacrifice involved not the animal itself but, rather, its life. Against this backdrop, the words of St. Paul in Sunday’s second reading take on additional significance: “I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice” (Rom 12:1). The word “living” puts a different twist upon the usual experience of sacrifice as it was practiced during the time of St. Paul. The sacrificial victim was thoroughly dead when it was burnt on the altar. In contrast, the victim in the sacrifice that St. Paul proposes continues to live on. It is not killed. In other words, St. Paul is asking that Christians live in such a way that

COMMENTARY 15

their lives constitute a sacrifice, “holy and pleasing to God, your spiritual worship.” By following the teachings of Christ, by embracing his cross, Christians will share in his sacrifice on that cross, the sacrifice that gives life to the world. It is in living according to these words of St. Paul that Christians fulfill their role as priests. After all, a priest is one who offers sacrifice. And elsewhere, the New Testament declares that we are a priestly people: “You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people of his own, so that you may announce the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light” (1 Pt 2:9). We live out our calling as priests, not primarily by reciting prayers or conducting religious services, but by acting with truth and justice. Our worship takes place in the course of our daily lives — not in some temple removed from mundane affairs, but in the midst of the world and its concerns. By our lives, we sanctify the world. Father Mike Stubbs is the pastor of Holy Cross Parish in Overland Park and has a degree in Scripture from Harvard University.

We have the capacity. Do we have the will?

t was a dark time in our nation: The stock market was out of control, banks were closing, unemployment was rampant and thousands of hard-working families were slipping into the ever-widening crack of poverty.

Our country’s great experiment of living under a government “of the people, by the people, for the people” seemed to be failing. Into this darkness, a strong voice called out to the American people, rallying them to overcome. “In these days of difficulty, we Americans everywhere must and shall choose a path of social justice; the path of faith,

the path of hope, and the path of love toward our fellow man.” That rally cry came from Franklin Delano Roosevelt during a campaign address on Oct. 2, 1932. In the years that followed, America rose up and battled back from the brink of despair. Sure, there were government work programs and a world war that sparked the economy, but what really defined that great generation was its willingness to sacrifice for a greater good, a common good. My mother tells stories of the things they gave up, of the neigh-

bors they helped and the neighbors who helped them. A family in need didn’t have to wait for government assistance, because a helping hand was just around the corner or down the block or in the house next door. Today, Americans are once again living through dark times; families are falling into the deep cavern of poverty. But the voices we hear rarely call us to justice, to faith, to hope or to love. The voices we hear are strident, discordant, and polarizing. Once again, it seems that our “great experiment” is in danger of failing. Once again, we simply can’t wait on our government to help. At Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas, our vision is that we will one day again live in communities where neighbors are helping neighbors. While we advocate for the voiceless on the Capitol steps, we are also calling each of

you to step up to the plate and become your brother’s keeper. While unemployment hovers over 9 percent, that means 90 percent of us still have jobs. We have the capacity to shelter the homeless, feed the hungry and nurture the sick. We simply have to the make the choice to put others before ourselves. On Feb. 12, 1943, Roosevelt made the following comments in an address: “We have faith that future generations will know that here, in the middle of the 20th century, there came a time when men of good will found a way to unite, and produce, and fight to destroy the forces of ignorance, and intolerance and slavery and war.” What will future generations say about us? Jan Lewis is the executive director of Catholic Charities.

FROM THE SUPER

Catholic schools encourage kids to meet the Lord firsthand

ear friends of Catholic schools,

“Let the children come to me.” (Mt 19:14) What a fitting Gospel reading for August as we prepared for the opening of Catholic schools throughout the archdiocese! After all, the primary purpose of our schools is to help parents help their children come to know and love Jesus on a personal level. We do this in many ways. But, first and foremost, we ask for God’s help. As I write this, approximately 1,200 faculty and staff members in Catholic schools are participating in the first sessions of their ongoing formation programs. In these sessions, teachers have the opportunity to learn more about the faith and to pray together as a community of faith. We are so

Concrete Work

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

blessed to be able to offer this to our teachers, because it not only benefits them but also their students. I am sure you can remember a teacher who loved his or her subject matter so much that it made the class come alive for you, too. Well, teachers who love the Lord and love their Catholic faith can have that same effect! Another way we try to assist parents in guiding their children toward Jesus is through our curriculum. The Catho-

lic Church has contributed a rich, intellectual tradition to the world, and in our Catholic schools we strive to teach this to our students in every subject area — not just in religion class. However, the curriculum is not the only avenue for teaching our students about Christ and his church. Perhaps the most important path to Christ that Catholic schools provide is prayer. Our students have the opportunity to ask for prayers and to give prayers. Prayer is the one gift we can always give one another, and prayer is a “sure-fire” way of entering into deeper communion with Jesus. Speaking of “communion,” what greater prayer is there than the sacrifice of the Mass? Catholic school students have the opportunity to receive the body and blood of Christ during the school day — but this should not

take the place of receiving Christ on Sundays. Rather, it is an added blessing our students receive and another way we partner with parents. This fall, two more O’Hara grandchildren will be walking the halls of Catholic schools. It gives me great joy and comfort to know that they are in an environment each day that fosters their faith. In the end, faith in and friendship with Christ are the true keys to success in this life, and the keys that open the door to eternal life with him. I am so grateful that our Catholic schools stay focused on this and do, indeed, “let the children come” to Jesus. ¡Vaya con Dios! Kathy O’Hara is the superintendent of archdiocesan schools.

Want to help someone heal from an abortion? Call Toll Free 888-246-1504

Harvey M. Kascht (913) 262-1555

“I am proud to continue the legacy of service my grandfather and father began in 1946.” 7 PM SEPTEMBER 18,19,20 Most Pure Heart of Mary 17th & Stone, TOPEKA, KS

FUNERAL HOME • CREMATORY • MEMORIAL CHAPELS 10901 Johnson Drive Shawnee, Kansas 66203 Telephone 913-631-5566 Fax 913-631-2236 Gregg Amos

www.amosfamily.com

A MISSION SURE TO INSPIRE For additional information, please contact the MPHM Christian Formation Office at 785-272-4727. Or @ www.mphm.com

16 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • AUGUST 26, 2011

Donnelly College scholarship dinner set for Sept. 14 By Jessica Langdon Leaven staff

Photo by JD Benning

Benedictine Father Marion Charboneau (left) and Prior James Albers cover Brother Leven with a funeral pall to symbolize his death to the world. Brother Leven emerges from beneath the pall, symbolically resurrecting to new life as a monk.

St. Benedict monk makes final vows By Dan Madden

Special to The Leaven ATCHISON — Brother Leven Harton did not make a permanent commitment to monastic life without some anxiety. But for the Wichita native and former Benedictine College student, it came down to acceptance, which in the end gave him confidence that he was not moving forward too idealistically. “This is going to take a lot of perseverance,” he said of the life he chose when he decided to profess solemn vows Aug. 6 at St. Benedict’s Abbey in Atchison. “We don’t live in a stable world and it’s not easy to do these kinds of things. If I wasn’t a little anxious, I would have to ask myself if I was really facing the calling and the demands of it. I have had good examples in my life — my parents, teachers, the people around me—and the people who have been the happiest are those who are committed to a calling.” Brother Leven prepared for his profession thoroughly — a period of postulancy, a yearlong novitiate, and three years of simple vows. When the time approached, he asked for a sixmonth extension to be sure. He says what he found in that six months was what he already knew. “This community is my identity,” he said. “It made me who I am; it formed me entirely — as a human, as a monk, as a child of God. “There is a joy for me in continuing that formation.” In his address to Brother Leven at the profession Mass, Abbot Barnabas Senecal spoke of Brother Leven’s preparation and of the fear that resides in everyone. “In preparation for today, his day of solemn profession of vows, [Brother Leven] spent several days on a mountaintop with four Cistercian monks at Ava, Missouri,” the abbot said of Brother Leven’s pre-profession retreat. “These men were not familiar to him but, for the moment, they were

Photo by JD Benning

Brother Leven Harton kneels before Abbot Barnabas Senecal, OSB, as he professes his solemn vows on Aug. 6 at St. Benedict’s Abbey.

“This community is my identity. It made me who I am; it formed me entirely — as a human, as a monk, as a child of God. There is joy for me in continuing that formation.

”

Brother Leven Harton, OSB

with him, helping him to see himself as a monk, as a man committed to being with the Lord, in a special, lifelong endeavor. “Surely he brought back to Atchison with him a deeper satisfaction in his decision to make vows today, as he, too, revealed himself to these monks by his quiet presence and diligent imitation of their lifestyle.” Quoting the Gospel of the day, the feast of the Transfiguration, the abbot said, “Rise, and do not be afraid.” “These were the words Jesus spoke to Peter, James and John, who

had become frightened upon hearing a voice from the cloud: ‘This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.’” Abbot Barnabas promised the young monk that family, friends and confreres were gathered to say the very words of esteem and appreciation to him: “St. Benedict would have us offer you that support, today and every day. He would have us say the same to one another, building up a companionship that is supported by the vows we make, the promises to be obedient, to strive for conversion of life, and to see ourselves as permanent members of this group and confident within ourselves as we seek God together.” Brother Leven says he has looked at his life during the formation of simple vows and examined how he is equipped for monastic life — and especially how he is ill-equipped. “That doesn’t mean I’ve seen everything,” he said, “but I’ve seen my shortcomings . . . and I still want to do this. “And that’s pretty good. “That’s pretty good.”

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — In the heart of the city, opportunity is knocking, and hundreds are swinging the door wide open to welcome it. They are students at Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kan., and they’re living proof of what Donnelly wants people to know — that a college education can be accessible and affordable. Seeing students succeed is behind everything this college does. Scholarships are key to many. Donnelly takes that to heart. Supporters are invited to learn more about Donnelly and to contribute to scholarship funds for students by attending the fifth annual Donnelly College Scholarship Dinner on Sept. 14 at the Jack Reardon Convention Center in Kansas City, Kan. The evening begins with cocktails at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 7 p.m., and a prize drawing at 8 p.m. This year’s event will honor Henry Bloch for his support of Donnelly students through the Henry W. Bloch Scholars program. Donnelly is a Catholic college, sponsored by the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. “Donnelly’s scholarship dinner is one of my favorite events of the year, primarily because it brings a spotlight on one of the archdiocese’s least known, yet most important, ministries,” said Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann. “The value and potential Donnelly brings to the diocese as well as to the community is enormous and warrants more support.” Donnelly serves about 1,100 students each year, and each Donnelly student has his or her own story. “Donnelly serves at-risk college students at levels unprecedented in higher education nationally, putting us in a league with only a handful of other small, private colleges and institutions,” said Donnelly College president Dr. Steve LaNasa. And this is an opportunity to see firsthand the difference Donnelly College is making. “The scholarship dinner is a great way to learn about all the incredible things our archdiocesan college is doing,” said Dick Flanigan, chairman of the event and Donnelly College board member. “It does what few other colleges can do by providing access to higher education to disadvantaged students. From first-generation to low-income students, Donnelly helps break down the biggest hurdle to achieving a college education.” “The dinner provides supporters with an opportunity to learn how their contributions have helped advance the college,” said LaNasa, “and also puts them face to face with the Donnelly students whose lives they are transforming. We are excited to honor Mr. Bloch and the H&R Block Foundation that has helped increase access to higher education and transform so many lives through the Henry W. Bloch Scholars program.” Through the program, 90 urban youths each year attend Donnelly College or Penn Valley Community College in Kansas City, Mo., and transfer to the University of Missouri-Kansas City for bachelor’s degrees. Registration information and details about the event are available online at: www.donnelly.edu/dinner, or by calling Laura Bryon, annual fund coordinator, at (913) 621-8752, or, via email at: advancement@donnelly.edu.