08 26 16 Vol. 38 No. 5

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 38, NO. 5 | AUGUST 26, 2016

Chris Padgett was the keynote speaker and entertainer for the rural youth rally tour that stopped in Horton and Scipio Aug. 13 and 14.

From left, Alexander Newton and Christopher Rziha, members of St. Benedict Parish in Atchison, compete in a frozen shirt contest where participants try to be the first to unfreeze the shirt and put it on.

Kristen Becker, a member of the combined youth group of St. Leo in Horton and St. Mary, Purcell, leads the girls in a sing-along contest against the boys at the Horton youth rally on Aug. 13.

YOUTH REIGNS PROUD Rural youth summer tour hits Horton and Scipio More photos from these events can be seen online at: www.theleaven.org

PHOTOS BY JAY SOLDNER Zane Hermreck of St. Boniface Parish in Scipio is all smiles at the Scipio youth rally on Aug. 14 on the parish grounds.

Msgr. Robert Bergman, left, and Deacon George Karnaze of Immaculate Conception Parish, Louisburg, check out a grass cross made

by Sage Reynolds, a member of St. Francis Xavier, Burlington.

From left, Austin Allen of St. Therese Parish, Richmond, and Father Paul Henson, O.Carm., director of vocations for the Carmelites, Hayden Hermann of St. Boniface Parish, Scipio, toss bean bags was a guest homilist for the Scipio youth rally Mass. St. Boniface and St. Therese parishes are under the care of the Carmelites. during the break in the Scipio youth rally.

AUGUST 26, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Parish hopes to walk toward a new church This year, the 10K run/fun walk will take place on Oct. 1 at Shawnee Lake Trail near southeast Topeka.

Packet pickup and registration OPEKA — If particiopens at Shelter #1 at 8:30 a.m. The pants in the upcoming 10K race begins at 9:30 a.m., and “Walking in Prayer, the walk will begin at 10 a.m.

Running in the Spirit” The awards ceremony and a event need any indoor prize drawing (must be presspiration, they can always turn to ent to win) will be at 11:30 a.m. The “Coach” Isaiah. top three male runners and top “They will run and not grow three female runners in each age weary, walk and not grow faint,” bracket will receive says the biblical medals. The age prophet (Is 40: 31).

To sign up online to run brackets are under Father Larry or walk, go to: www.st age 40 and over age Bowers, pastor of patrickchurches.org. For 40. two parishes named information on the race The race fee of for St. Patrick — one route, contact Nanette $35 includes a shirt in Scranton and one O’Flaherty by email at: for each runner and in Osage City — is naoflay@hotmail.com. a sandwich lunch. hoping the second To see a map of the The walking fee is annual running and area, Google “Shawnee $15, which includes a walking event will County Parks and Rec,” shirt and a sandwich be as successful as click on Lake Shawnee, lunch. Walkers are last year’s. then click view map link. asked to get sponAfter all, the sorship per-mile parish needs the money. St. Patrick Church in Scran- pledges, with a $125 minimum.

There will be games and activton is beyond repair, and parishioities in the afternoon. There will ners need to build a new church.

The parish’s “Walking in Prayer, be a 5 p.m. Mass in Shelter #1 folRunning in the Spirit” fundraiser lowed by a free community dinner is only one of several events de- sponsored by the Knights of Cosigned to raise money for the capi- lumbus and the Scranton Altar tal campaign. Last year, 80 partici- Society. pants raised $15,000.

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

T

Father Larry Bowers, pastor of St. Patrick Parish in Scranton, participates in a balloon toss at the Scipio youth rally Aug. 14. Father Bowers is leading an effort to raise funds for a new church in Scranton and will be running in the parish’s 10K fundraiser. See story above for how to sponsor Father Bowers.

KCK mayor relies on clergy to keep him current

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By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Catholic clergy are an important part of a new Unified Government effort here to built good police and community relations.

And it couldn’t come at a better time.

“Two years ago, I formed the Mayor’s Clergy Roundtable in an effort to stay in touch with the faith community in the city,” said Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kansas Mayor Mark R. Holland. “I thought it would be helpful to me, as mayor, to convene the roundtable on a regular basis.”

As an ordained Methodist minister himself, Holland knows the key role clergy can play in a community. There are approximately 300 churches in Kansas City, Kansas, alone, he said.

“I give them updates on what’s going on in the city and an opportunity to ask questions, and for them to give me input about what’s going on in the city that I need to be aware of,” said Holland.

It was coincidental that the clergy roundtable met on July 20, just one day after the murder of police Capt.

Robert “Dave” Melton.

Melton’s death came two months after the murder of Kansas City, Kansas, Police Detective Brad Lancaster, who was shot on May 9 while responding to a suspicious person call.

At the end of the July roundtable, both the clergy and the mayor issued statements.

The clergy called the community to engage in “a time of reflection and discernment for how we might rise above the fear and divisions that group our nation. We cannot let tragedy and evil lead us down a dark path of suspicion and distrust.”

Holland acknowledged the deaths came at a time when the national climate had grown stormy over the issue of police and community relations, “and yet, I believe Kansas City, Kansas, will faithfully rise above this fear.”

The mayor and clergy decided to meet again in one week — on July 27 — at Donnelly College. About 50 clergy attended the meeting, including eight Catholic priests.

“It was an excellent meeting,” said Father Harold Schneider, rector of St. Peter Cathedral. “The mayor led a dis-

“WE HAVE A LOT OF STRENGTHS TO BUILD ON. I DON’T FEEL LIKE ANY ONE OF THE CLERGY WAS COMING AT THIS WITH [A SENSE] OF A CLIMATE OF MISTRUST LIKE IN A LOT OF OTHER COMMUNITIES. BUT WE DO WANT TO BE PROACTIVE.”

Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kansas Mayor Mark R. Holland

cussion. There was a presentation by [Deputy Chief Rodney Smith] on how the police are doing and are trained to handle certain situations, and we broke into three different discussion groups.”

The clergy came to a consensus that the issues needing to be addressed are community violence and police/community relations, said Holland.

“There’s a sense that our police department is doing a pretty good job of interacting with the community,” said Holland. “We have a lot of strengths to build on. I don’t feel like any one of the clergy was coming at this with [a sense] of a climate of mistrust like in a lot of other communities. But we do want to be proactive.”

The roundtable came up with three ideas to improve community/police relations. One is to hold a community forum in early September. A second is to create a task force and a third is to find a way to engage youth in conversation.

All three of these ideas are relatively unformed at this time and will need further development, said Holland.

The mayor appreciated the Catholic clergy participation in the roundtable.

“I would ask [Catholic clergy] — as I would all clergy — to stay engaged,” he said. “We need all the faith perspectives. We need all our collective clout to . . . address all of these very difficult issues.”

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AUGUST 26, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

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Sheila Hefner, left, helps a client with her selections.

Volunteer Pat Spinelli makes sure the shelves are fully stocked before clients arrive.

NO JUDGMENT ZONE

Healthy choices, warm welcome are hallmark of Topeka pantry

By Carolyn Kaberline Special to The Leaven

T

OPEKA — It’s a few minutes before 10 a.m. on Thursday morning and the shelves at the food pantry at Catholic Charities here are stocked.

As clients sign in and gather in the nearby waiting room, Brenda Guilfoyle, manager of the Topeka Emergency Assistance Center, passes out fruit to those waiting.

When 10 a.m. arrives, Sarah (not her real name) is greeted in the pantry by volunteer Sheila Hefner. She is then shown the number of items she can select at each station based on the number in her family. After making her choices from shelves of cereals, pasta, fruits and vegetables, Sarah is asked if she’d like some fresh items — ears of corn, potatoes and carrots are today’s choices — from the nearby tables, before receiving some meat from the freezer.

The scene will be repeated many, many times with other clients before the pantry is closed for the day.

The pantry, located in the Catholic Charities building in the 200 block of S. Kansas Ave., is in a part of town where it is most needed.

“Our pantry has a higher volume of clients than most in Shawnee County,” said Guilfoyle. “We currently serve approximately 1200 families feeding close to 3,000 family members each month.

All of our pantry food is donated or purchased with monetary contributions. We are one of the few pantries that also offer federal commodities once a month.”

Even with strong support from the parishes — Christ the King and Most Pure Heart of Mary have monthly food drives, while Mother Teresa Parish gives monetary donations and St. Matthew has donated food and a freezer — it is still hard to keep up with the demand.

“We order over 1,000 loaves of bread a week, and it’s all gone within that week,” said Guilfoyle, adding that the items provided through the pantry are meant to be supplemental for those who qualify under the financial guidelines.

“We focus on healthy choices and offer nutritional information and recipes along with the basic food groups — proteins, grains, fruits and vegetables.”

Open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. four days

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799) President: Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann

LEAVEN PHOTO BY CAROLYN KABERLINE

Volunteer Marilyn Williams fills sacks for those who are unsheltered.

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“WE CURRENTLY SERVE APPROXIMATELY 1200 FAMILIES FEEDING CLOSE TO 3,000 FAMILY MEMBERS EACH MONTH. Brenda Guilfoyle, manager of the Topeka Emergency Assistance Center a week — Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday — with Wednesday used for restocking, the pantry is staffed primarily by volunteers.

“We have over 30 volunteers that come in to work, but we definitely need more,” said Guilfoyle, noting that those volunteers help by working at the front desk, unloading trucks, stocking shelves and assisting clients in the pantry. They also prepare weekly bags for those who are truly unsheltered — people living in cars, under bridges and in tents.

“We turn away no one who is hungry,” said Guilfoyle, explaining that those who come to the pantry are a diverse group of people. Some struggle with health or mental issues; some are elderly or disabled and on fixed incomes.

“Most have suffered hardships and misfortunes. They are people who are truly struggling,” she said.

Guilfoyle said that regardless of their reasons for coming to the pantry, “we

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

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org

Reporter Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

Advertising Coordinator Beth Blankenship beth.blankenship@theleaven.org

want them to feel welcomed and loved.

After all, we may be the only ones who offer them any kindness or respect today.

“We make no judgments. We haven’t walked in their shoes.”

Although some may feel that the work in the pantry is depressing, Guilfoyle said it is quite the opposite.

“We feel blessed! They show us so much gratitude,” she said, adding that the people they serve are “humble and filled with grace and dignity. They show us how to deal with life in a most resilient and faithful way.”

“The love and generosity is very reciprocal here,” she concluded. “If our purpose in life is to ‘walk each other home,’ we couldn’t be in better company.”

Published weekly September through May, excepting the Friday the week after Thanksgiving, and the Friday after Christmas; biweekly June through August. Address communications to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Phone: (913) 721-1570; fax: (913) 721-5276; or e-mail at: sub@theleaven.com. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109.

For change of address, provide old and new address and parish. Subscriptions $21/year. Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.

AUGUST 26, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

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Project Jason shines light on desperate lives

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Marianne Asher-Chapman’s daughter Angie Yarnell disappeared on Oct. 25, 2003.

Angie’s husband, Michael Yarnell, later admitted to killing her, but to this day has refused to tell anyone where he put Angie’s body.

So Asher-Chapman keeps looking.

“I’ll never, ever give up looking for Angie — not ever. As long as For information I have breath, about Project I’m looking for Jason, go online Angie until I to: www.project bring her home,” jason.org; call she said.

(402) 932-0095; “It’s a very or write: Project desperate way of Jason, P.O. Box life,” she added.

59054, Renton, Asher-ChapWA 98058. man was one of 19 people who attended the Vigil of Hope for All Missing Persons held on July 30 at Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kansas. The vigil was part of the “Keys to Healing” retreat July 29-31, sponsored by Project Jason.

Project Jason, a 501(c)(3) organization, was established in 2003 to provide care and support for families of missing persons, primarily adults.

Becoming a relative of a missing person means having one’s normal life suddenly shifted to “a new life of gut-wrenching, grieving and struggles that seemingly have no end,” said Kerry Messer, from St. Genevieve County, Missouri.

Messer went to bed with his wife Lynn on July 7, 2014. When he awoke the next morning, she was gone. There was simply no trace of Lynn, then 52. They had been married for 36 years.

“We all know many people who have lost loved ones due to accidents and illnesses,” said Messer. “So, among my friends are widows and widowers. Yet, they can’t comprehend the type of depth of grieving when your wife is just — gone.”

Asher-Chapman said, “It’s like a chronic illness — you don’t ‘get it’ until you get it.”

Being the relative of a missing person is like living in a surreal, parallel universe. Suddenly, the world you took for granted becomes sinister and frustrating, said relatives of the missing. There

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE BOLLIG

Malinda Hoyt, left, from Leavenworth, and Kelly Murphy, founder of Project Jason, pray before a table of photographs of missing relatives during a prayer vigil inside the main chapel at Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kansas. Hoyt’s daughter Emillie was reported missing in Florida in January 2006, and Murphy’s son was reported missing in Omaha, Nebraska, in June 2001. The vigil was part of the “Keys to Healing” retreat July 29-31, sponsored by Project Jason. is no resolution. The world is colored by doubt and unknowing, and the duty is to keep the missing loved one’s name in the public consciousness lest they be forgotten.

“You feel like you don’t fit in any more with the rest of the world, because [other people] don’t understand what you’re going through and feeling,” said Elizabeth Harris, who attended the retreat with her daughter Ronica Paltauf.

“You react to things differently. You see life in a whole different way, too — you see the harshness and realities of life.”

Harris’ daughter, Roxanne Paltauf, went missing on July 7, 2006, in their hometown of Austin, Texas. Roxanne Paltauf was 18 at the time.

On any given day, there are as many as 100,000 active missing person cases in the United States, according to NamUs, the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System, part of the U.S. Department of Justice.

Most cases are resolved, but there are more than 40,000 sets of human re-

mains that cannot be identified in evidence rooms of medical examiners and coroners across the nation. NamUS calls the unfound missing “the nation’s silent mass disaster.”

Despite the large number of missing, there is relatively little help for relatives of missing adults, said Kelly Murphy. She founded Project Jason after her then19-year-old son, Jason Jolkowski, vanished without a trace on June 13, 2001, in Omaha, Nebraska, while walking to meet a co-worker for a ride to work.

“What I found through the course of time and my own personal healing is that there is little assistance for families of missing adults,” said Murphy.

Murphy discovered that “no one gives you a handbook” on how to deal with this trauma. No one tells you how to deal with law enforcement, or the media, or how to cope.

“When the investigation hit a standstill, I felt God was calling me to take what I learned and help other families,” she said.

Project Jason teaches families how to heighten public awareness of their family’s case. Project Jason also offers guidance and emotional assistance.

“I found there was a gap,” said Murphy. “There wasn’t anyone providing these families emotional assistance.

There wasn’t anyone out there teaching them . . . how this particular trauma affects the brain and then the body. We also teach them coping mechanisms and stress relievers, dealing with things that are frustrating, and changed relationships.”

These “survivors” need care for their minds, bodies and spirits — and the spiritual process was definitely an important part of the weekend. Faith in God can literally be a lifeline.

“We teach them what is the appropriate place in their life for ‘the search,’ and then to find themselves again — find joy and meaning in their life that has nothing to do with their missing loved one,” said Murphy. “You can feel joy without guilt.”

Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth elect new leadership

By Therese Horvat Special to The Leaven

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EAVENWORTH — During a ritual on July 17, the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth marked the transfer of leadership to new members of its Community Council who were elected earlier this year in a Chapter of Election.

Sister Constance Phelps is the new SCL community director, succeeding Sister Maureen Hall, who held the post for six years. Forming the new council with Sister Constance are: Sister Eileen Haynes, first councilor; and Sister Amy Willcott and Sister Phyllis Stowell, councilors. Sister Jean Anne Panisko has been

Sister Constance Phelps

Sister Eileen Haynes

reappointed treasurer, and Sister Peg Johnson is serving as interim secretary.

Sister Constance served 27 years as a professor of sociology, an administrator in student services and interim president of the University of Saint Mary, Leavenworth.

From 1998 to 2004, she was a member of the SCL Community Council. She currently

Sister Amy Willcott

Sister Phyllis Stowell

serves as a member of Leaven Ministries, the sponsor of SCL Health System.

Serving her second consecutive term on the SCL council, Sister Eileen joined the leadership group in 2010. Prior to that, she was director of Shantivanam House of Prayer, Easton; director of admissions for Cristo Rey High School, Kansas City, Missouri; and di-

Sister Peg Johnson

Sister Jean Anne Panisko

rector of Bridges to Success/ GED program at Donnelly College, Kansas City, Kansas.

For the past 12 years, Sister Amy was executive director of Mount Saint Vincent, a residential and day treatment facility in Denver. In other leadership roles, she was director of community health at Saint Joseph Hospital, Denver, and executive director of Caritas

Clinics (Duchesne Clinic in Kansas City, Kansas, and Saint Vincent Clinic, Leavenworth).

Sister Phyllis most recently served as pastoral associate at St. Francis de Sales Parish, Lansing. Previously, she was spiritual director and director of adult faith formation for the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Sister Peg has held the community secretary position for 12 years. Over 34 years in education, she taught vocal and instrumental music in grades K-12 and served as a vice principal and associate administrator.

Beginning her seventh year as SCL community treasurer, Sister Jean Anne has a background as an elementary school teacher and principal.

AUGUST 26, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

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NEW LOOK FOR NATIVITY KNIGHTS Chairs give time-honored tradition a modern twist

By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org

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EAWOOD — “They say we’ve made Knight of the Month sexy again,” said Church of Nativity parishioner Michael Nolte.

The term “sexy” may be a stretch, but Nolte and fellow parishioner James Reitmeier have certainly brought new life to their Knights of Columbus council by revamping the program recognizing outstanding members.

There are even plans Want to revamp for a Knight your Knight of the of the Month Month award procalendar in gram? the works.

If any Knights “ W e are interested in thought it improving their would be abcouncil’s Knight solutely hiof the Month prolarious to get gram, Michael these guys Nolte is happy to together and help. Contact him throw them online at: michael into goofy jnolte@gmail.com. outfits representing their month, something with some humor,” said Reitmeier.

“And it could be a fundraiser for another one of our causes,” said Nolte.

“We could have those 12 honorees in the vestibule autographing their pages.”

That’s the way this team of two works — feeding off each other with ideas to improve what is already very successful and working exactly as Nolte hoped it would.

“I wanted it to be a marketing piece for the Knights of Columbus,” he said. “People are now congratulating Mr. April or Mr. May when they see him.

“And we’re having record numbers signing up.”

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD

Church of Nativity council Knight of the Month Joe Vogliardo (center) holds the traveling trophy as he stands with, from left, Knight of the Month program co-chairs James Reitmeier and Michael Nolte; former Supreme Knight Virgil Dechant; and Grand Knight Mike Gorman.

Something special Knight of the Month is a national program — each council chooses an outstanding member to honor each month. Eventually, one honoree will be named Knight of the Year and participate in a regional, and then a national, competition.

But each council is allowed to conduct the program however it chooses.

Leawood’s Church of Nativity was selecting the honoree by a show of hands each month. The selected member would then receive a dinner gift certificate.

When the council’s Grand Knight asked for a volunteer to chair the program, Nolte saw it as his chance to turn it into a marketing tool.

“I thought, ‘I’ll take this a run with it,’” he said. “I had some ideas.”

Reitmeier was new to the council and offered to help.

“It was my first meeting,” Reitmeier said. “They talked about the program and I knew we had it at my previous parish.

Each Church of Nativity council Knight of the Month proudly displays the traveling trophy in his home before passing it on to the next Knight of the Month.

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“WE THOUGHT WE WOULD MAKE THIS VERY SPECIAL — KIND OF A VIP THING THAT THE GUYS COULD TAKE PRIDE IN, THAT THEIR FAMILIES COULD BE PROUD OF.” Mike Nolte, Knight of the Month program cochair “I always like to leave a little footprint wherever I go — leave [it] a better place — so I volunteered.”

The two went out for pizza to get acquainted and laid plans to improve the program by making it the grand finale of every meeting.

“We thought we would make this very special — kind of a VIP thing that the guys could take pride in, that their families could be proud of,” said Nolte.

Oddly enough, the former Supreme Knight who originally developed the Knight of the Month award program, Virgil Dechant, is now retired and living in Church of Nativity Parish.

“I went over and had a visit with Virgil in his home,” said Nolte. “He called the [Knights of Columbus headquarters] and asked if there was anything we had to do as to how this is awarded.

“And they said, ‘No, it’s up to each council.’”

Nolte’s next stop was Trinity House Catholic Book and Gifts shop in Overland Park where he hoped to find some

sort of traveling trophy.

The owners had just received a statue they thought would fit the need.

“They took me back and showed it to me — a kneeling knight with a shield,” said Nolte. “It was perfect.

“And they said, ‘We want to just gift it to your program.’”

VIP As part of Nolte’s and Reitmeier’s redesign, the entire council votes by ballot for which member they consider most deserving of the award.

The top three ballot choices are then reviewed by the co-chairs, and they agree on an honoree.

“We look at how much they’ve given back to the church and how much they’ve given back to the Knights,” said Reitmeier. “We view how they’re upholding the full principles of the Knights.

“So, these gentlemen have earned this award, and I think that’s really important.”

The chosen honoree is then invited to dinner where the co-chairs pepper him with questions designed to reveal some sense of his personality.

“We came up with the format that I call 20/60,” explained Nolte. “When we interview the honoree, we toss at him 20 questions in 60 minutes.

“And it’s more than just fill-in-theblank data.”

The co-chairs find out favorite books, movies and altar-boy stories.

They ask the honoree about religious Sisters and Brothers who have been inspirational in his life, and what influenced him to join the Knights.

By the end of dinner, they have >> See “KNIGHTS” on page 6

AUGUST 26, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Knights renew interest in ‘stodgy group’

TOOLS FOR FAMILIES

Growing as Disciples of Jesus

>> Continued from page 5 enough information to write an interesting profile story — and that’s exactly what they do.

“James and I alternate who writes the profile,” said Nolte. “But we write it that night while we’ve got the flavor of it.”

The Knight of the Month is then presented his award at the end of the council meeting.

The previous month’s honoree says a few words about how he was impacted by the experience and what the trophy meant to his family. He then hands the traveling trophy off to the next honoree.

The Knight of the Month also receives a personalized certificate and a dinner-for-two gift card.

“So, we end the meetings on a standing ovation high note,” said Nolte. “And that’s really fun.”

Then the profile appears in the bulletin, and the whole parish gets to know the Knight of the Month.

“We’re still evolving it,” said Reitmeier. “Now we’re doing bulletin inserts — a whole page, front and back, with high-quality photos.”

“When we do these articles,” he said, “our goal is not only to highlight the accomplishments, but also to make these men relatable to other parishioners.”

“It gives kind of a stodgy group of men some color and personality,” said Nolte.

And parishioners are taking note, congratulating honorees and showing new interest in the organization.

“We were known in the parish for just two things — Roses for Life and the fish fries,” said Nolte. “Now were getting more notoriety.

“That’s making our group more desirable, and more guys are joining.”

Friendships forged over generations Another plus that’s come from the new Knight of the Month program is the unusual friendship that has been forged between the co-chairs.

Unusual because there’s a 37-year age difference between them.

“I’ve been blessed to have him be the co-chair,” said Reitmeier of Nolte.

“He’s introduced me to a lot of people and been a good friend throughout the process.

“I think there was a little bit of a calling from Christ that led me toward him.”

And that’s one great advantage to being part of a brotherhood like the Knights of Columbus — men from different generations joining together to share support and wisdom.

“We all have different opinions,” said Reitmeier. “We all have different views on politics or favorite sports teams.

“But we all share our faith and our love for Jesus.”

“At the end of the day that’s all that matters,” Reitmeier added. “I think a passion for Christ, a passion for serving, has no age limit.”

ARTWORK BY NEILSON CARLIN, 2015

An oasis of prayer A small table with a cross, a statue of Mary and a basket for placing the name of a person or situation needing prayer can be your family’s oasis of prayer.

Prayer requests are welcome from Mom and Dad, and especially the children. (Include school tests or a hurt with a friend.) Daily, as a family: • Lift up the petitions in prayer.

• Give thanks for prayers answered.

• Remind all that God is eager to share all our cares and needs!

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

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WEB EXCLUSIVE

CHURCH OF THE WEEK St. Ann, Hiawatha Address: 800 Hiawatha Ave., 66434 Phone: (785) 742-3010 Pastor: Father Daniel Gardner Mass Times: Saturday, 4:30 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.

Email: stanns@rainbowtel.net

Video

A video tour of this church is available online at: www.theleaven.org.

More photos of this church can be seen online at: www.theleaven.org.

The seven new Eagle Scouts from Church of the Nativity are, from left: Duncan Bjerke, Luke Boudreau, George Kupper, John Hunter, Ross Vedder, Michael Lillis and Ethan Vlasic.

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Seven Nativity Scouts earn Eagle award

EAWOOD — Nativity Boy Scout Troop 396 here honored seven new Eagle Scouts — all graduates of the parish school and members of the parish. To achieve this ranking, Scouting’s highest honor, each candidate earned at least 21 merit badges, served in various leadership positions and successfully completed a community service project.

Since its founding in 1995, 111 boys have earned their Eagle under the leadership of Nativity’s Troop 396.

The seven Scouts and their Eagle projects were: • Duncan Bjerke distributed teddy bears, sang Christmas carols and made holiday cards for the patients at Research Medical Center in Kansas City, Missouri.

ADORATION

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann leads a group of teenagers in adoration on Aug. 19 in the adoration chapel at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kansas.

LEAVEN PHOTO

BY LORI WOOD HABIGER

• Luke Boudreau re-landscaped the front of Nativity Church by removing 25-year-old plantings, redesigning the layout and replacing the old plantings with new ones.

• George Kupper designed and installed two large garden spaces at Villa St. Joseph retirement home in Overland Park. He raised all funds by selling American flags.

• Michael Lillis restored tombstones at Elmwood Cemetery in Kansas City, Missouri.

• Ross Vedder also restored tombstones at Elmwood Cemetery.

• Ethan Vlasic coordinated an unused paint recycle project with the Johnson County Health and Environment Hazardous Materials Collection Facility.

Join Villa St. Francis for Alzheimer’s walk

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VERLAND PARK — Villa St. Francis here invites everyone to join in for the 2016 Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Oct. 2.

Registration begins at 8 a.m. at Corporate Woods, 9401 Indian Creek Pkwy., Building 40, in Overland Park. The walk starts at 9:30 a.m. There will be two walking routes to choose from: a one-mile or a three-mile option.

Participants can purchase a T-shirt in support of the fight against Alzheimer’s.

The cost is $5 for S-XL, and $6 for XXL. To participate in the walk, the suggested donation is $10 ($5 for T-shirts and $5 for the fundraiser).

For more information, contact Tiffany Howell-Clair, director of community relations, at (913) 948-4982 or by email at: thowell@ villasf.org. Sign-up deadline is Sept. 12.

Catholic Charities ready to help with disasters

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ALTIMORE — Disasters such as the flooding currently affecting communities in Louisiana and wildfires in California can devastate thousands of families and forever change countless lives.

Donations to Catholic Charities USA will go toward providing families and individuals who were affected by these disasters with immediate and long-term disaster relief needs. Contributions will save lives, rebuild homes, provide shelter and supplies, and restore hope.

Catholic Charities agencies across the country are constantly monitoring and responding to natural disasters. They are fully prepared to assist families and individuals with shelter, food, and other immediate and long-term needs.

You can donate online. Google Catholic Charities USA, where a donation link will immediately open; or call (800) 919-9338.

AUGUST 26, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS Dutch and Kathy tenBroek, members of Holy Spirit Parish, Overland Park, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary Aug. 19 with a Mass and dinner.

The couple was married Aug. 19, 1966, at St. Leo Church, Oakland, California. They have four children — Jacobus, Nicolaas, Pieter and Kelley — and nine grandchildren.

Al and Pat (Kopecky) Kolarik, members of St. Ann Parish, Prairie Village, will celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary with their family. The couple was married on Aug. 11, 1951, at St. Wenceslaus Church, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. They have 11 children, 33 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

John D. and Mary (Burdick) Rottinghaus, members of Sts. Peter and Paul Parish, Seneca, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on July 3. The couple was married on Aug. 13, 1966, at St. Augustine Church, Fidelity, by Father Ed Engel. Their children are: Shawn Rottinghaus; Brenda Deters; Sam Rottinghaus; Gayle Soberg; Cynthia Darting; Emmy Sund; Jackie Kiracofe; Josh Rottinghaus; Mary Jon Hinz; Frank Rottinghaus; Ben Rottinghaus; and Veronica Winkler. They also have 33 grandchildren.

Mary and Roger Copeland, members of Holy Cross Parish, Overland Park, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on Aug. 11. The couple was married on Aug. 11, 1956, at St. Bartholomew Church, Wayzata, Minnesota.

A celebration and blessing was shared with family on Aug. 13. Their children are: Joanne Herre; Susan Copeland (deceased); Christina Copeland; and John Copeland. They also have six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Karen and Bill Weimer, longtime members of Good Shepherd Parish, Shawnee and now members of St. Patrick Parish, Laurie, Missouri, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary with a celebration at the Knights of Columbus Park in Shawnee on Sept. 4. The couple was married on Sept.

3, 1966, at St. Mary of the Angels Church, Wien, Missouri. Their children are: Darrin, Duane and Nathan. They also have six grandchildren.

Jeanne and Jack Waters, members of Holy Spirit Parish, Overland Park, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on Sept. 8. The couple was married on Sept. 8, 1956, at St. Adalbert Church, Elmhurst, New York.

Their children are: Mary, Roseann, Regina, John, Jeanine, Peter and Jim. They also have 10 grandchildren. They will celebrate with a Mediterranean cruise.

Linda (Meyer) and Richard Arnold, members of St. Dominic Parish, Holton, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 28 at the 10:30 a.m.

Mass, followed by a family dinner.

The couple renewed their vows at the archdiocesan golden wedding anniversary Mass at Church of the Nativity in Leawood on June 5. The couple was married on Aug. 27, 1966, at St. Dominic Church by Father Ed Hays. They have three children — Bill, Pat and Neely — and 10 grandchildren.

Davis and Ruth Anne (Thielen) Theis, members of Holy Angels Parish, Garnett, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary with a family dinner on Sept.

4.

The couple was married on Sept. 17, 1966, at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church in Kansas City, Missouri. Their children are: Chris Theis, Lee’s Summit, Missouri; and Audra Theis, Denver. They also have two grandchildren.

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Janice and David Merritt, members of St. Theresa Parish, Perry, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 6 with a dinner with family and friends. The couple was married on Aug. 6, 1966, at Immaculate Conception Church, Valley Falls. Their children are: Toby Merritt, Oskaloosa; and Tricia Herring, Ozawkie. They also have one grandchild.

Margie and John “Jack” McGivern II, members of Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish, Topeka, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on June 25 with family and friends at Gage Shelter House.

The couple was married on June 23, 1956, at St. Joseph Church, Hays. Their children are: Toni (deceased); Terri; John; Mark; Lisa; Tim; Lynn; Amy; Greg; BJ; and Ryan.

They also have 26 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Jerry and Judy (Skoch) Osterhaus, members of St. Mary Parish, St. Benedict, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept.

10. Family and friends are invited to an open house on that day from 2 to 4 p.m. at the American Legion Hall in Axtell. The couple was married at St. Mary Church on Sept. 10, 1966.

Jackie (Kralemann) and Richard Hagenhoff, members of Prince of Peace Parish, Olathe, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on Sept. 8. The couple was married on Sept. 8, 1956, at Corpus Christi Church, Jennings, Missouri. Their children are: Deborah West; Sandra Martin; Karen Engler; and Diane Hagel. They also have nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. A family celebration with Mass and dinner was held in early August.

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ANNIVERSARY POLICY

• The Leaven prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th notices.

• Announcements are due eight days 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 have resided in the archdiocese for a significant period of time.

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 (no spouses please) • number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; Photo specifications: • Emailed photos need to be at least 200 dpi.

• Mailed photos can be any size.

• If you would like your photo returned, include a self-addressed stamped envelope.

Send notices to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, attn: anniversaries; or send an email to: todd.habiger@theleaven.org.

Catholic Cemeteries assumes management of Mount Calvary, Lansing

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ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Catholic Cemeteries of Northeast Kansas has assumed management of Mount Calvary Cemetery, 1011 N. Desoto Road, Lansing, serving Leavenworth, Lansing and the Leavenworth Region.

“We are pleased to extend the services of our organization to benefit Catholics and their families in the Leavenworth area,” said Robert W. Chenoweth, Catholic Cemeteries’ executive director. “It is our mission and our practice to respond and serve with compassion and to enhance the cemeteries we manage based on needs.”

Office hours at the Lansing cemetery are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. After hours and on weekends, Catholic Cemeteries’ counselors will answer calls and be available to meet any time by appointment. Call (913) 727-1698 or send an email to: information@cathcemks.org.

Catholic Cemeteries of Northeast Kansas currently manages eight other cemeteries in Johnson and Wyandotte counties and Topeka. For more information, go online to: www. cathcemks.org.

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Topeka (785) 233-3447 Lawrence (785) 749-1696 In business since 1963 www.foundationrepairks.com

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SUMMER’S LAST STAND

Extreme Camp at Prairie Star Ranch in Williamsburg closed out this summer camp season with some extreme temps, but Leaven photographer Jay Soldner stuck out the heat to document this day in the life of camper Kelsey Davis.

1 As her group saddles up early to take advantage of the cooler air, Corpus Christi, Lawrence, parishioner Kelsey Davis listens as Steve Rovirosteck, equestrian program manager, gives her some last-minute instructions.

2 Kelsey leads her group of riders down the trail. Prairie Star Ranch maintains a stable of 26 horses. 3 Campers pray before lunch — and before and after most of the day's activities. 4 All meals are served

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family style in order to emphasize that — for that week, at least — campers are family.

5 Hitting the bike path, Kelsey checks to make sure her group is keeping up.

6 After some time in the hot sun, campers retreat to a cooler spot and work on the camp dance. 7 Next comes a chance to work in the organic garden at the camp. The garden was started seven years ago by Michelle Burn, a former camper

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and staff member. 8 Gardening is followed by a break under a shade tree. 9 Kelsey races an opponent in Extreme Camp's version of tic-tac-toe.

10 Kelsey celebrates after making a particularly good play for her team in volleyball. 11 Campers gather for praise and worship at the end of a day of activities.

12 The long day finally ends with eucharistic adoration in the new chapel at the ranch.

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AUGUST 26, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

NATION

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Olympic swimming champion returns home to cheering crowd

By Kelly Seegers Catholic News Service

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ULLES, Va. (CNS) — After winning five medals — four gold and one silver — at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, swimming champion Katie Ledecky is taking things one step at a time on her return home.

Wearing her medals around her neck, the first step was right into the arms of friends waiting to greet her as she walked into the baggage claim area of Dulles International Airport outside of Washington Aug. 17.

Dozens of others cheered and applauded the Olympic champion, a graduate of Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart in Bethesda, Maryland.

Ledecky left the Olympics with gold medals in the 200-, 400- and 800-meter freestyle races and in the 4x200-meter relay. She broke her own world records in the 400- and 800-meter races. She earned silver in the 4x100-meter freestyle relay.

Soon after saying her hellos, Ledecky told reporters that the next things on her to-do list were to eat a home-cooked meal, sleep in her own bed and buy everything else she needs for her college dorm room at Stanford University, where she was soon to begin classes. The 2020 Olympics in Tokyo are on the horizon, but for now, college calls.

Ledecky’s ability to set swimming aside for a few weeks as she prepares for college just like any other incoming freshman is reflective of the humility that so many in the Stone Ridge community admire about her.

“What makes her a really good role model is she is so humble,” said Colleen Carey, a 2015 graduate of Stone Ridge who was a co-captain of the swim team with Ledecky. “She is so grounded not only in her studies but as a person. . . .

Lower schoolers can look up to how she has dealt with the fame.”

Stone Ridge Head of School Catherine Ronan Karrels agreed.

“Her swimming really doesn’t define

CNS PHOTO/JACLYN LIPPELMANN, CATHOLIC STANDARD

U.S. Olympic swimmer Katie Ledecky greets fans at Dulles International Airport in Virginia Aug. 17, after returning home from the Summer Games in Rio de Janeiro. her as a person, which is what I think keeps her grounded,” Karrels told the Catholic Standard, Washington’s archdiocesan newspaper. “She is so lovable.”

So far, being a normal student and pursuing her goals at the same time has worked well for Ledecky, who met the goals she had set for Rio as far back as 2013.

“I hit them right on the nose and I think that’s the best feeling any swimmer can have,” Ledecky told reporters.

Kelleigh Haley, a 2016 graduate of Stone Ridge who swam with Ledecky at the Nation’s Capital Swim Club and on the Stone Ridge team, was one of

the people awaiting the Olympian’s airport arrival.

Haley remembers swimming with Ledecky in practice, and while everyone she swam with always worked hard, Haley said, “She is just out of everyone else’s league.” Citing Ledecky’s 11-second margin of victory in the 800meter freestyle, Haley added, “She’s in her own race.”

Ledecky worked hard regardless of the circumstances, Haley added. She particularly remembers when Ledecky had her wisdom teeth removed and was back in the pool days later. But Ledecky’s hard work and success never stopped her from looking out for her

teammates.

“She really wants to calm you down and wants you to have your best race, regardless of if it is an Olympic race or a high school race,” Haley said.

The crowd of supporters from Stone Ridge wore their “Ledecky Team USA” T-shirts, holding a large banner, and even had a large cut-out of Ledecky’s head. They chanted, “Katie! Katie!”

“It is very hard not to burst with pride,” said Paul Boman, an assistant swim coach and theology teacher at Stone Ridge. “It can’t happen to a nicer, more deserving, better person.”

With sign, high school sends message students must solve own problems

By Malea Hargett Catholic News Service

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ITTLE ROCK, Ark. (CNS) — As the first week of school began at Catholic High School in Little Rock, a sign placed on the school office door is being discussed by national radio hosts, the media and parents.

The boys school always has placed a high priority on responsibility and consequences, but the notice with a red stop sign prominently at the top is what is getting attention across the country.

On Aug. 10 the sign was posted at the school and shared with parents: “If you are dropping off your son’s forgotten lunch, books, homework, equipment, etc., please turn around and exit the building.

Your son will learn to problem-solve in your absence.”

After the sign was posted on the school’s Facebook page, it was shared 117,000 times and had more than 3,600 comments.

While most of the comments were supportive, many Facebook comments disagreed with the school’s notice.

One woman said, “I’m an adult who forgets things because life is hectic and

CNS PHOTO/APRILLE HANSON, ARKANSAS CATHOLIC

A sign reinforcing decades-old policies on problem-solving and personal responsibility is taped to a door at Catholic High School for Boys in Little Rock, Ark., Aug. 15. chaotic. . . . I can’t expect my kids to remember when their life is just as hectic.

This is a terrible idea. Especially the food.”

Other commenters seemed to understand that the school was educating high school boys, not elementary students.

“These are young men only a few short years away from college. Mommy can’t bring your lunch or forgotten book to college. My son would be mortified if I brought his lunch or book to him. So what if they get detention? I promise, they will not starve in three hours. They are smart. They will borrow food from a

friend. Natural consequences,” another woman wrote.

Catholic High parents were not surprised by the sign and knew what to expect since the school has been preaching this rule for decades.

“I’m very proud to now be a part of this exceptional school and happy to hear it is generating a national conversation about the value of personal responsibility,” said freshman parent Jennifer Gunderman of Maumelle.

Principal Steve Straessle reminded parents Aug. 10 before the Aug. 15 first day of school to follow the school’s common sense policy.

In an e-mail to parents, he wrote, “Our old philosophy was that doing so perpetuates forgetfulness and inconveniences adults for a boy’s memory lapse. Now, however, we are doubling-down on this policy to treat the aforementioned lack of problem-solving that has become the norm. If your son forgets something, he will simply have to figure out the best mechanism for fixing it.

“He will have to borrow money for lunch, talk to a teacher about forgotten homework or go hat-in-hand to a coach for forgotten equipment.”

Straessle has been telling parents to

teach their sons about “soft failures” “Soft failures are the times when boys come up short without permanent damage to their well-being,” he said. “A soft failure is a lower grade on a test than expected. A soft failure is not making the team. A soft failure is when a boy’s behavior results in corrective discipline.

No one has ever had his life destroyed by soft failures. However, many lives have been devastated by the lack thereof.”

In an interview with Arkansas Catholic, Little Rock’s diocesan newspaper, Straessle said he intended for the quickly written sign to be at the school for two weeks, but now it will be permanent. In the past parents occasionally did bring up lunches, homework or football pads, but the office staff always told them they couldn’t deliver the forgotten items.

“We want to save the trip up here and save the embarrassment and save any kind of time, in addition to underscoring why we have that policy,” he said. “It’s not because we don’t want parents to bother us, or we want to be mean to the kids. It’s because our kids need to think beyond the default switch of call Mom and Dad if something goes wrong. Every tool necessary to solve the problem can be found here on campus.”

AUGUST 26, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CLASSIFIEDS EMPLOYMENT Drivers - Special Beginnings Early Learning Center is seeking part-time drivers for its school-age program located in Lenexa. Candidates must be able to drive a 13-passenger minibus, similar to a 15-passenger van.

CDL not required, but must have an excellent driving record. Candidates would pick up children from area schools and then work directly with them when arriving back at the center. Experience preferred. Must have strong work ethic and the ability to work with children.

Insurance provided. Background check will be conducted. Great opportunity for retired persons or those seeking a second job. Job responsibilities include: ensuring safety and well-being of children who are being transported at all times, including loading and unloading.

Driving short, round-trip routes to elementary schools in Lenexa/Olathe area. Summer only: Driving short, roundtrip routes to two Lenexa city pools. Maintaining mileage log. Keeping interior of vehicle clean. Apply by sending an email to: chris@specialbeginningsonline.com or in person at 10216 Pflumm Rd., Lenexa, KS 66215.

Career opportunity - Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding a financial representative in the Kansas City metro, Atchison and Topeka area. 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. This is a full-time position.

Please contact John A. Mahon, general agent, for more information or an interview at 1275 Topeka Blvd., Topeka, KS 66612 or call (785) 408-8806. You can also send an email to: john.mahon@kofc.org.

President - Rockhurst High School, a Roman Catholic, nonprofit, college preparatory school for young men, sponsored by the Society of Jesus in Kansas City, Missouri, seeks an enthusiastic and visionary leader to serve as president starting July 1, 2017. As the chief executive officer, the president will build on Rockhurst High School’s rich tradition of faith-based college preparatory education and formation, and boldly lead the institution into the future. The primary purpose of the office of president is to provide both spiritual and educational leadership for the school’s achievement of its mission as a Jesuit school. The president is hired by, and responsible to, the school’s board of trustees, which in turn is responsible to the Central and Southern Province of the Society of Jesus. As the chief executive officer of the school, the president has overall responsibility for the management of Rockhurst High School and for providing leadership to its educational mission and values consistent with directives of the Catholic Church and particularly those of the Society of Jesus. The leadership responsibility extends to the student population and the school faculty and staff.

The president also is the institutional spokesperson and represents the school to internal and external community groups. Additional information is available online at: www.rockhursths.edu. Application deadline is Sept.

16, 2016. Applicants should send the following separate documents, as PDF files, to Mr. Allen K. Roberson, Search Committee Chair, at: aroberson@rockhursths.edu: 1) a statement of interest describing skills, knowledge and experience; 2) resume or curriculum vitae; 3) list of at least five references, including complete contact information and a description of the relationship to the applicant. References will not be contacted without the permission of the applicant. Questions may be directed to Mr. Roberson.

Choir accompanist - Holy Spirit Catholic Church, Overland Park, needs a choir accompanist. This paid position requires piano and organ proficiency and entails working closely with the choir director during Thursday evening and Sunday morning rehearsals in preparation for 10:30 a.m. Masses three Sundays per month, September through Pentecost (usually May each year). The choir sings one Sunday per month during the summer as well as Thanksgiving, Christmas midnight Mass, Holy Thursday and Easter Vigil. Send an email to Denise Slaven at: dslaven@hscatholic.org or call (913) 492-7318, ext. 151, to set up an audition.

Two teaching positions - Prince of Peace Early Education Center is looking for a part-time afternoon teacher for a school-age room. Must have one year of child care center experience. Hours: 2:30 - 6 p.m., M - F. We are also looking for a part-time afternoon teacher for a three-year-olds room. Hours: 3 - 6 p.m., M - F. Competitive wages offered for both positions. Contact Amanda Khemraj, Prince of Peace EEC, 16000 W. 143rd St., Olathe, KS 66062, or call (913) 829-2728.

School counseling consultant - Part time (one to two days per week) in Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Elementary School in Seneca. Master’s in counseling, social work or related field required. Complete online application found at: www.catholiccharitiesks.org/jobs.

Drivers - Assisted Transportation is now hiring caring and reliable drivers to transport K-12 students to and from school and other activities in company minivans. Positions are now available in Olathe, Overland Park and Kansas City, Kansas. Competitive wages and flexible schedules. CDL not required. Retirees encouraged to apply. Call (913) 262-3100 or apply online at: AssistedTransportation.com. EEO

Accounts receivable specialist - Seeking a part-time accounts receivable specialist responsible for resolving and collecting outstanding payment issues, generating weekly aging reports and other accounts receivable duties. Must be proficient in Microsoft Excel. Send resumes to: rbarnekoff@bjpeerless.com.

Drivers needed - Medi Coach Transportation is looking for caring and reliable drivers for nonemergency transportation. CDL is not required. Contact Jeff at (913) 8251921.

Extended care teacher - St. Patrick Early Education Center in Kansas City, Kansas, is seeking a faith-filled lead teacher to work with preschool students in our after-school program, Monday - Friday, 3:30 - 6 p.m. Excellent opportunity for a college student who is entering the early education field or for someone who is willing to learn more about the field of early education. To apply, send an email to Michelle at: stpatrickeec@archkckcs. org or call (913) 299-3051.

Teaching positions - St. Ann Young Child Center in Prairie Village is seeking to fill the following positions for the 2016-2017 school year. One preschool teacher’s aide for our four-year-olds classroom: Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 9 - 11:30 a.m., and an after-school teacher, Monday through Friday from 3 - 6 p.m. Competitive pay.

Great environment to work in. For more information, call Tati at (816) 716-4676.

Groundskeeper - Catholic Cemeteries is seeking an individual for a full-time groundskeeping position, hours Monday through Saturday. This position requires heavy lifting. Must be physically fit; experience operating construction equipment would be a plus. Must be a fast learner and flexible on hours. Interested individuals should contact Matt Wirtz at (913) 371-4040.

Choir director - Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, Kansas City, Missouri, is seeking a part-time choir director for a well-established adult 20-25 voice choir. The preferred candidate should have a strong knowledge and experience in conducting sacred choral music, Gregorian chant and traditional polyphony. Experience in liturgical music planning for weekend Masses, holy days and solemnities is preferred. Responsibilities include working with the principal organist to rehearse and direct the choir, which sings at the 9 a.m. Sunday Mass (September through the feast of Corpus Christi) and other feast days throughout the year. A bachelor’s in music education or comparable music degree equivalent with experience in choral conducting is required. If interested, mail resume and references to Msgr. William Blacet, Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church, 3934 Washington, KCMO 64111.

Development director - Didde Catholic Campus Center at Emporia State University, Emporia, is looking for a development director who will be responsible for leading and managing the fund development program; raising funds for the center and programs; managing funds for the center and programs; and managing all committees involved in fund development activities. For more information on the Didde Center, this position and how to apply, visit the website at: www.petreusdevelopment. com/jobs.

Teacher assistant - Special Beginnings, Lenexa, is seeking full- or part-time after school teacher assistants at all locations. We are looking for a teacher assistant candidate who has an excellent work ethic, heart for children and a willingness to learn more about early childhood education. Experience and/or education is a plus, but we will train the right candidate. Teacher assistants will work with the lead teacher to care for and educate the children. Primary responsibilities include assisting the lead teacher with: care and supervision of children, lesson plan implementation, parent communication, and cleanliness and organization of classroom. Starting hourly pay ranges based on experience and education.

Pay increases are based on job performance. Opportunities for advancement are available, as the company prefers to promote from within. Apply by sending an email to: chris@specialbeginningsonline.com or in person at 10216 Pflumm Rd., Lenexa, KS 66215.

SERVICES

Cleaning lady - Reasonable rates; references provided.

Call (913) 940-2959.

Tutoring - Private individual or small group tutoring: test prep, study skills, reading, fluency, math, other.

Professional educator with doctorate degree. Call or text (913) 710-9109 or send an email to: drheatherhamtil@ gmail.com.

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

The GO GO Girls - Now have time available for new clients. Maybe you aren’t driving as much, or at all; we can help. If you need to GO to the doctor, dentist, hairdresser, barbershop, grocery store, etc., let us know. If you don’t want to GO yourself, we can run your errands for you. We will GO to your home, if you need someone to sit with a loved one, while you get away. Contact us at (913) 4696211 or (816) 806-0564 to discuss your needs. Johnson County area only.

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

Fall tutoring - Available for K-12 and home-schoolers in music and academics. For more information, call/text Kathleen at (913) 206-1837or email klmamuric@yahoo. com.

Clutter getting you down? - Organize, fix, assemble, install! “Kevin of all trades” your professional organizer and “Honey-do” specialist. Call today for a free consultation at (913) 271-5055. Insured. References. Visit our website at: www.KOATINDUSTRIES.com.

Cleaning lady - 30 years experience. References available. Call Sandy’s Cleaning Service at (913) 788-7676 or (913) 956-1626.

Seniors’ hair styling - Roller sets, backcombing, haircuts and perms. Located in the Workshoppe Beauty Salon at 5909 Dearborn, Mission, KS. Call (913) 432-6335 or (816) 769-8511. Wed-Thurs-Fri by appointment, with Bonnie. $5 off any service with mention of this ad.

Rodman Lawn Care Lawn mowing, aeration, verticutting.

Hedge trimming, mulch, leaf removal.

Fully insured and free estimates.

John Rodman (913) 548-3002

HOME IMPROVEMENT EL SOL Y LA TIERRA *Commercial & residential * Lawn renovation *Mowing * Clean-up and hauling * Dirt grading/installation * Landscape design * Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!! www.elsolylatierra.com Call Lupe at (816) 252-1391 Rusty Dandy Painting, Inc. - We have been coloring your world for 40 years. Your home will be treated as if it were our own. Old cabinets will be made to look like new. Dingy walls and ceilings will be made beautiful.

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

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

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

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

Agua Fina Irrigation and Landscape The one-stop location for your project!

Landscape and irrigation design, Installation and maintenance.

Cleanup and grading services It’s time to repair your lawn. 20% discount on lawn renovations with mention of this ad.

Visit the website at: www.goaguafina.com Call (913) 530-7260 or (913) 530-5661

Local handyman and lawn care – Water heaters, garbage disposals, toilets, faucets, painting, power washing, doors, storm doors, gutter cleaning, wood rot, mowing, carpet, roofing, etc. Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118.

Mike Hammer local moving - A full-service mover.

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

The Drywall Doctor, Inc. - A unique solution to your drywall problems! We fix all types of ceiling and wall damage — from water stains and stress cracks to texture repairs and skim coating. We provide professional, timely repairs and leave the job site clean! Lead-certified and insured!

Serving the metro since 1997. Call (913) 768-6655

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

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

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Swalms organizing - downsizing - cleanout service – Reduce clutter – Any space organized. Shelving built onsite. Items hauled for recycling and donations. 20 years exp.; insured. Call Tillar at (913) 375-9115. WWW. SWALMSORGANIZING.COM. Water damage restoration - Framing, insulation, painting, Sheetrock, mold treatment, and lead-safe certified.

Fully insured. Serving Wyandotte and Johnson counties for 25 years. Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144.

KIRK AND YEYO PAINTING Whole house painting Wood rot repair, affordable Only premium paint used Licensed and insured (913) 927-5240, nelsport@everestkc.net 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 at (913) 709-8401.

House Painting Interior and exterior; wallpaper removal.

Power washing, fences, decks.

30 years’ experience. References. Reasonable rates.

Call Joe at (913) 620-5776.

HARCO Exteriors LLC Your Kansas City fencing specialists Family owned and operated (913) 815-4817 www.harcoexteriorsllc.com Concrete construction - Tear out and replace stamped, stained or colored patios and drives. Retaining walls, footings, poured-in-place safe rooms, excavation and hauling. Asphalt drives and lots. Fully insured; references. Call Dan at (913) 207-4371 or send an email to: dan deeconst@aol.com.

NELSON CREATIONS L.L.C. Home remodeling, design/build, kitchens, baths, all interior and exterior work. Family owned and operated; over 25 years experience. Licensed and insured; commercial and residential. Kirk and Diane Nelson.

(913) 927-5240; nelsport@everestkc.net Custom countertops - Laminates installed within 5 days. Cambria, granite, and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee.

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) 491-5837 or (913) 579-1835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com.

Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.

Thank you for another great year - Through your support, my family has been blessed and my business has grown. We do windows, trim, siding, doors, decks, interior and exterior painting, wood rot, bathroom renovation, tile and Sheetrock. If you need work done around your home, we can do it. Josh (913) 709-7230.

CAREGIVING Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation for seniors in their home, assisted living or nursing facilities.

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

“Lynn at Heart” - 24 years’ experience in all types of private care. Excellent references. 24/7, shift or respite care. In-home, assisted living, nursing home, companionship, light housekeeping, meal prep, transportation, ADLs, care management, hospice. Greater KC area. Call (913) 707-0024. Ask for Mark.

Personalized care - Experienced, specializing in dementia, medication setup and activities of daily living.

Excellent references. Contact Andrea at (913) 548-1930.

Companion care - Retired nurse will do what needs to be done. $15/hour, Fri., Sat., Sun. beginning the first week in September. References available. Call (913) 579-5276.

CNA, Home Health Care Professional - Provides TLC in the comfort of the client’s residence. Budget friendly. Available 24 hours, or part time. Excellent references. 25 years of Seasoned Experience. Nonsmoker. Call (816) 806-8104.

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 family-owned, with offices in Lenexa and Lawrence. Call Benefits of Home - Senior Care, Lenexa: (913) 422-1591 or Lawrence: (785) 727-1816 or www.benefitsofhome.com. >> Continued on page 13

AUGUST 26, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CALENDAR ‘FINDING THE RIGHT JOB AND KEEPING IT’ Keeler Women’s Center 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Sept. 1 from 10 - 11:30 a.m. (Thursdays)

celebrate your life, outline your faith principles and leave your stories for your descendants. RSVP by calling (913) 371-1404. Reservation deadline is Sept. 2.

This class will meet for six Thursdays. It will cover writing resumes and cover letters, practicing interview skills and more. Then there will be discussions on how to keep the job.

carryout. There will also be drawings, raffles, baked goods, crafts and a quilt raffle.

ORGAN RECITAL St. Scholastica Chapel at Mount St. Scholastica 801 S. 8th St., Atchison Sept. 11 at 3 p.m.

A trio of organists will celebrate the refurbished pipe organ in St. Scholastica Chapel with a recital. The organists are Sister Susan Barber, Sister Janelle Maes and Dr. Lara West. The event is free and open to the public. The program includes music from across the centuries.

TACO DINNER Queen of the Holy Rosary Church 7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park Sept. 3 from 1 - 6 p.m.

The cost for the taco dinner is $6.50 for adults; $3 for children. Tickets will be available at the door. The event is a fundraiser for Our Lady of Guadalupe Society ministry.

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>> Continued from page 12

FOR SALE

For sale - Nolting Pro Series 24” quilting machine and accessories: includes threads, pantographs, books, etc.

Like new. Call (785) 213-1548.

For sale - Used Musser M-42 xylophone in good condition. Would be perfect for a school band program or a percussion student wanting to learn mallets, $1095.

Two-year-old Yamaha 8310ZS professional trumpet in excellent condition, $2000. Member of Ascension. For more information, call (913) 481-5880.

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.

Resurrection Cemetery - Crypt for sale. Mausoleum: Corridor Prince of Peace Chapel, tier C, crypt #2. For more information, call (405) 413-2716.

For sale - At Resurrection Cemetery, two easements in mausoleum. Contact A. Kelly at (913) 649-9691.

QHR-WEA GOES HOLLYWOOD DINNER AND AUCTION Queen of the Holy Rosary-Wea 22779 Metcalf Rd., Bucyrus Sept. 10 at 5 p.m.

PARISH PICNIC Sts. Peter and Paul Parish 411 Pioneer, Seneca Sept. 4 at 4:30 p.m.

A roast beef dinner will be served. The cost is $10 for adults; $5 for children. Takeout meals will be available. Bingo, concessions, games, a beer garden, a live auction and a teen dance will follow.

WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY Holy Trinity Parish (Father Quigley Center) 9201 Summit Rd., Lenexa Sept. 8 from 9:30 - 11 a.m. (Thursdays)

This Bible study will be an 18-week study of the Gospel of Luke, called “Doors of Mercy.”

There will be programs available for children, but spots fill quickly. Registration is due by Aug. 31 to have a book by the first day of class. For more information, call Laura Haeusser at (913) 341-9057 or Kathryn Burditt at (913) 451-3680 or send an email to: tkburditt@hotmail.com.

LEGACY WRITING PROJECT Skradski Funeral Home 340 N. 6th St., Kansas City, Kansas Sept. 9 from noon - 3 p.m.

Skradski Funeral Home invites you to a legacy writing project that includes lunch and free materials. Author and publisher Anne Tezon, owner of Personal Chapters LLC, will guide you through the process of answering questions that will allow you to

The cost of the dinner is $40 per plate which includes the appetizers, meal, dessert and beverage. The 50/50 tickets are $20 each or six for $100. There will be a live and a silent auction, golden tickets and much more! For more information or to purchase tickets, call David or Susan Dougan at (913) 226-6347 or go to the website at: qhrwea.auction.

ICE CREAM SOCIAL St. Patrick Church 1086 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kansas Sept. 10 at 5 p.m.

There will be a polka band from 5 - 7 p.m. and a DJ from 7 - 10 p.m. There will be lots of food and games for everyone. For more information, call Fritz Vertz at (913) 515-0621.

SINGLES OF NATIVITY DANCE Church of the Nativity (parish hall) 3800 W. 119th St., Leawood Sept. 10 from 7 - 10 p.m.

This will be a Latin fiesta dance. The cost is $20 at the door. There will be food, drinks and a DJ. For more information, send an email to: mmeli62@gmail.com or call her at (913) 314-9844. The dance is sponsored by Singles of Nativity.

HOLY ANGELS BAZAAR St. Rose School 530 E. 4th St., Garnett Sept. 11 from 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

The cost for a turkey, roast beef or chicken and noodle meal is: $9 for adults; $5 for children ages 10 and under; and $10 for

Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas • Catholic Bequests

• Donor Advised Funds

• Gift Annuities

• Named Scholarship Funds

• Endowments

• Memorial Funds

Remember a gift to the church in your will

(913) 647-0325 CFNEK@archkck.org www.cfnek.org

FOR RENT TRI-PARISH SERVICE AND PICNIC St. Charles Church 520 W. Chestnut St., Troy Sept. 11 at 10:15 a.m.

The three Catholic parishes of Doniphan County — St. Charles in Troy, St. Benedict in Bendena and St. Joseph in Wathena — will hold a tri-parish service and picnic on the outdoor grounds at St. Charles. A small group of Father Francis Bakyor’s friends will provide some African music this year. Everyone is invited.

NPM AFTERNOON OF REFLECTION Visitation Church 5141 Main St., Kansas City, Missouri Sept. 12 from 2 - 5 p.m.

David Haas, a well-known Catholic composer, will lead an afternoon of reflection from 2 - 5 p.m. and then perform a concert at 7 p.m. Contact (913) 526-6031 for information about signing up.

CATHOLIC DIVORCE SURVIVAL GUIDE Prince of Peace Church (Emmaus Room) 16000 W. 143rd St., Olathe Sept. 13 from 6 - 7:30 p.m.

This is a series for Catholics who are going through, or have gone through, the pain of divorce. The series will run for 11 weeks and will be held in the Emmaus Room of Prince of Peace School. For more information and to enroll, call Julie Knoche at (913) 710-7083 or Anne Anderson at (913) 208-9675. Classes are open to all parishioners in the archdiocese.

Shared office space - Sublet/share, fully furnished office space. College and Metcalf location. One large spacious office available that could easily accommodate executive and assistant. Shared conference room, break room, copier and phone system. Perfect for CPA, attorney or other professional executive. Call Mark at (913) 707-0024.

For rent - Executive two-story home in The Wilderness (Overland Park 66085). $2800/mo. Four bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, three-car garage, three fireplaces, deck, patio and fenced-in yard. Amenities include pool, play area, stocked fishing pond and trails. No pets.

Available immediately. Contact: blueheavenusa@gmail. com for details.

WANTED TO RENT Wanted to rent - Retired nurse with small dog wants to rent an inexpensive apartment/duplex. Will consider rent, rent-to-own or work exchange. Call (913) 5795276.

WANTED TO BUY Wanted to buy - Antique/vintage jewelry, lighters, fountain pens, post card collections, paintings/prints, pottery, sterling, china dinnerware.

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 to buy - I’m Mark Edmondson, a local parishioner at Holy Trinity, and I buy and sell houses in any condition. If you have a house “situation,” call me. I might have a solution for you. (913) 980-4905.

ROOMMATE Roommate wanted - $500 - $600 per month. Overland Park area, close to Johnson County Community College. Call (913) 579-5276.

AUGUST 26, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY TWENTY-SECOND WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Aug. 28 TWENTY-SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Sir 3: 17-18, 20, 28-29 Ps 68: 4-7, 10-11 Heb 12: 18-19, 22-24a Lk 14: 1, 7-14 Aug. 29 The Passion of John the Baptist 1 Cor 2: 1-5 Ps 119: 97-102 Mk 6: 17-29 Aug. 30 Tuesday 1 Cor 2: 10b-16 Ps 145: 8-14 Lk 4: 31-37 Aug. 31 Wednesday 1 Cor 3: 1-9 Ps 33: 12-15, 20-21 Lk 4: 38-44 Sept. 1 Thursday 1 Cor 3: 18-23 Ps 24: 1b-4b, 5-6 Lk 5: 1-11 Sept. 2 Friday 1 Cor 4: 1-5 Ps 37: 3-6, 27-28, 39-40 Lk 5: 33-39 Sept. 3 Gregory the Great, pope, doctor of the church 1 Cor 4: 6b-15 Ps 145: 17-21 Lk 6: 1-5 TWENTY-THIRD WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Sept. 4 TWENTY-THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Wis 9: 13-18b Ps 90: 3-6, 12-17 Phlm 9-10, 12-17 Lk 14: 25-33 Sept. 5 Monday 1 Cor 5: 1-8 Ps 5: 5-7, 12 Lk 6: 6-11 Sept. 6 Tuesday 1 Cor 6: 1-11 Ps 149: 1b-6a, 9b Lk 6: 12-19 Sept. 7 Wednesday 1 Cor 7: 25-31 Ps 45: 11-12, 14-17 Lk 6: 20-26 Sept. 8 THE NATIVITY OF MARY Mi 5: 1-4a Ps 13: 6abc Mt 1: 1-16, 18-23 Sept. 9 Peter Claver, priest 1 Cor 9: 16-19, 22b-27 Ps 84: 3-6, 12 Lk 6: 39-42 Sept. 10 Saturday 1 Cor 10: 14-22 Ps 116: 12-13, 17-18 Lk 6: 43-49

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Holiness ‘shrines’ through in this Nebraska must-see

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emember the 1977 sci-fi movie, “Close Encounters of the Third Kind”?

Just in case, here’s a quick recap from the Internet Movie Data Base: “After an encounter with UFOs, an electrical line worker (Richard Dreyfuss) feels undeniably drawn to an isolated area in the wilderness where something spectacular is about to happen.”

Well, Dreyfuss has nothing on me. Ever since I saw its photo on Facebook several months ago, I’ve felt drawn to an isolated area in a (kind of) wilderness . . . and something spectacular did happen there.

The photo was of Holy Family Shrine, located on 23 acres overlooking the Platte River Valley in Gretna, Nebraska. After a couple of failed attempts, I finally made it there on Aug. 16. It was absolutely worth the three-hour-plus drive from Tonganoxie.

This Catholic shrine opened in 2002 amid the rolling hills of southeast Nebraska. (Gretna is about 20 minutes from Omaha.) The gravel road to the shrine eventually leads to a visitor center carved out of the side of a hill. (The center is meant to evoke an image of the tomb of Christ.)

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MARK MY WORDS

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

Inside the center is a curly sculpture hanging from a skylight, which represents the discarded shroud of Jesus after his resurrection. Drops of water slowly drip from the sculpture into a small pool. This water, signifying the new life of the Holy Spirit we receive in baptism, then flows down a limestone path to the door of the shrine (symbolizing how our baptism leads us to the Eucharist.)

The shrine itself is a spectacular, awe-inspiring structure, constructed of Western red cedar and glass. Inside, the water splits into two and gurgles under the pews. I

could look down through small, open rectangles in the floor and both watch and hear the water as it winds its way to the stone altar up front.

Next, your eyes are drawn upward to the mesmerizing, arching wooden trusses, soaring to 45 feet above the floor.

These represent waving wheat, reminding us of Jesus, “the bread of life.”

I couldn’t fathom how much glass there was — walls of it — crystal clear, opening onto fields of bluestem prairie grasses and perennials.

Most incredible of all, however, amid all of this simple architectural beauty, is the comforting peace that envelops you.

Looking out the windows, I could see ribbons of traffic rushing below on I-80, yet inside this shrine, there was absolute quiet.

When I settled into a middle pew to absorb the

atmosphere of this gracefilled space, I found it comforting, homelike and strangely familiar, even though I’d never been there before. Above the tabernacle, etched into the window, was a large image of the Holy Family, perhaps explaining why I felt so much “at home” there.

I reluctantly left the shrine after about 90 minutes, marveling at the diversity of people who visited and the deep faith they displayed.

In case you haven’t guessed, I loved this place and intend to visit in each

of the upcoming seasons — fall, winter and spring — to watch how the beauty of God’s creation will change through those windows on the world.

This is a very doable day trip for many in the archdiocese. You can find much more information about the shrine, including directions, on its website at: www. hfsgretna.org.

Plan to spend time inside once you get there to have your own close encounter with our God, whose love always enfolds us.

What is our responsibility to the poor?

esus has something for everyone, no matter who or what we are.

We see that in this Sunday’s Gospel reading, Lk 14: 1, 7-14.

He is attending dinner at the home of a prominent Pharisee.

In conversation with his fellow diners, he gives advice: both to them in their role as guests — the role which most of them are filling at the moment — and also advice to them whenever they might instead act as hosts themselves at a dinner party in the future.

When they are guests, Jesus advises them not to seek the place of honor, but rather to go to a lower place. Impressed by their humility, the host will then undoubtedly invite them to go

POPE FRANCIS

THE GOSPEL TRUTH

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

higher: “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”

Continuing his Year of Mercy practice of going one Friday a month to visit people facing special struggles, Pope Francis paid a surprise visit to a community helping 20 young women get their lives back together after being rescued from prostitution. The pope visited the house operated by the John

Viewed cynically, this bit of advice could simply look like a practical way of getting ahead in the world.

In fact, Jesus was not the first to make this suggestion to potential guests. The Book of Proverbs proposes: “Do not put yourself forward in the king’s presence, or stand in the place of the great; For it is better to be told, ‘Come up here,’

than to be put lower in the presence of the prince” (25: 6-7).

Humility sounds like a way to get ahead in the world. But Jesus goes a step further.

In his advice to his fellow diners whenever they might act as hosts, Jesus tells them not to invite influential guests who can reciprocate the favor, but instead to invite those who are unable to repay them, namely “the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind.”

In contrast to the earlier advice that Jesus gave, this piece of advice will not advance their careers in the world.

Instead, it will enable them to find favor with God: “You will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.”

Besides this promise

XXIII Community in northeast Rome the afternoon of Aug. 12.

The community members, the Vatican said, were “20 women liberated from the slavery of the prostitution racket. Six of them come from Romania, four from Albania, seven from Nigeria and one each from Tunisia, Italy and Ukraine.” The women’s average age is 30, said a Vatican press state-

of future reward, Jesus’ advice can also result in an immediate benefit which the Gospel does not explicitly state. By encountering “the poor, the crippled, the lame and the blind,” we can overcome the barriers that separate us from them. We can realize that we all are children of God. The second bit of advice from Jesus stands out as far more radical than the first. It reflects the constant emphasis in Luke’s Gospel on the poor and our responsibility to them.

Most importantly, it affirms God’s clear concern for them and their physical well-being.

Jesus has good advice for us, but he had much more than advice for the poor and needy.

ment. “All of them have endured serious physical violence” and are now being protected. Pope Francis’ visit, the Vatican said, is another call to combat human trafficking, a reality the pope has described as “a crime against humanity” and “an open wound on the body of contemporary society, a scourge upon the body of Christ.”

— CNS

AUGUST 26, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

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Partnership with Easter Seals led to Perfect Wings taking flight in archdiocese

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atholic schools in the Perfect Wings program, which Archdiocese of Kansas is coordinated by Kroh, who now City in Kansas were recworks for the archdiocese. ognized in a June 2016 These components include: prostudy published by the viding professional development Center for Research in the Apostoprograms for teachers; serving as late (CARA) at Georgetown Univera liaison between Catholic schools sity for being more inclusive of stuin the archdiocese and the 29 difdents with special needs than other ferent public school districts in Midwestern and national parishes. which the Catholic schools are This report, called “Meeting the located; conducting classroom Needs of Those with Disabilities in observations of students in order the Church: A Profile of Parishes in to assist teachers in better meetthe Archdiocese of Kansas City and ing the needs of specific children; How They Accommodate People and participating in conferences with Disabilities,” was commiswith parents and school staffs to sioned by the archdiocese as part of a national study conducted by the center. The purpose of the national study was to determine how parishes ministered to individuals with special needs.

The archdiocese asked for its parishes to be included and an individual report provided.

Although the focus of the study was parish ministry, one of the major findings involved Catholic schools.

The report stated: “Of those Catholic Elizabeth Vater, a teacher at Resurrection at the schools associated with Cathedral School in Kansas City, Kansas, and Karen a parish, all of them say Kroh, assistant superintendent for special needs, the school includes childiscuss the Sheltered Instruction Observation Prodren with disabilities. tocol for lesson planning to support English lanNine in ten (88 percent) guage learners in the classroom. say the school has support staff to help students with disabilities and eight in ensure the best plans are in place ten (84 percent) say the school’s for a given child. budget includes resources related Kroh travels to all 42 Catholic to accommodating children with schools in the archdiocese and disabilities. provides approximately 40-50 “Archdiocesan parishes are 17 professional development workpercent more likely than other shops annually for teachers, 20 Midwestern and 22 percent [more meetings with public school dislikely than] national parishes to tricts, and 60 classroom observainclude salaries and resources retions and parent meetings. lated to accommodating students “One of the things I love about with disabilities in the budget.” what I am blessed to do is seeing In addition, “Eight in ten Cathhow much our school leaders and olic schools (79 percent) associteachers care about students,” said ated with the responding parishes Kroh. “Their eagerness to learn new make accommodations for parstrategies for helping students inents with disabilities.” spires and motivates me.”

According to Kathy O’Hara, suCurrently, Catholic schools in perintendent of Catholic schools the archdiocese serve more than for the archdiocese, these find1,000 students with special needs ings are the result of more than 20 — including 571 with diagnosed years of intentional effort. disabilities such as autism spec“When I came to the archdiotrum disorders, Down syndrome, cese in 1998,” she said, “my preAttention Deficit Disorder, cognitive decessor, Blake Mulvany, had aldisabilities, and physical disabilities ready commissioned a task force — as well as 489 identified English to study how Catholic schools language learners. were including students with speLynda Higgins, principal of Rescial needs and to make recomurrection Catholic School at the Camendations regarding how to imthedral in Kansas City, Kansas, said, prove schools’ inclusion efforts.”

“Because of the Perfect Wings proAccording to O’Hara, shortgram, we are better able to serve ly after that, Mulvany was apour students with special needs beproached by Karen Kroh, who at cause I know I can rely on Karen for the time worked for the Easter keeping up to date with the current Seals organization. Easter Seals research and best practice.” was interested in partnering with Kroh, however, gives credit to Catholic schools to assist them the schools. in serving students with special “The results of the CARA study needs. are due to the hard work of prinThe partnership began with cipals, teachers, parents, and stuKroh conducting a comprehensive dents in our schools,” she said. needs analysis and developing a “While we have room to do even program plan based on the identimore, I am so pleased with how far fied needs. As a result, the Perfect we have come in serving students Wings program was born. There with special needs in our schools.” are four major components of the