09 08 23 Vol. 45 No. 5

A PLACE TO EXPERIENCE GOD’S PRESENCE

Christ’s Peace House of Prayer celebrates 50 years

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

EASTON — When Father Ed Hays showed up here in early 1972, he raised more than a few eyebrows.

“I remember nobody knew what the situation was,” said Don Navinsky, a third-generation farmer who lives about six miles west of the property. “What’s he building up there? Is this going to be some kind of cult or something?”

It was nothing like that.

In late 1971, the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas bought a former horse farm on an obscure 120-acre tract of rolling pasture and woodlands at 22131 Meagher Road in northwest Leavenworth County, about

LEARN MORE ABOUT CHRIST’S PEACE

For more on retreats for individuals or groups, contact Vince Eimer online at: info@ christspeace.com; call (913) 773-8255; or look for “Christ’s Peace House of Prayer” on Facebook.

three miles east of Easton and some 13 miles west of Leavenworth.

Archbishop Ignatius J. Strecker had asked Father Ed Hays — who returned from a yearlong sabbatical and pilgrimage to Israel, India and Tibet — to establish an archdiocesan house of prayer on the site.

So, in early 1972, Father Hays moved onto the land and with

the help of volunteers began to build. He called his retreat/ prayer center “Shantivanam,” “Forest of Peace” in Sanskrit, after a place in India.

Since 2011, this archdiocesan center has been called Christ’s Peace House of Prayer, and archdiocesan Catholics gathered on Aug. 19 to celebrate its 50th anniversary with a Mass and open house.

“The original founder, Archbishop Ignatius Strecker, wanted a place of prayer for the archdiocese that prayed for the needs of the archbishop, the ministers and members of the archdiocese, for the church as a whole and the whole world,” said Vince Eimer, director of Christ’s Peace since December 2011.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann speaks to those gathered to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Christ’s Peace House of Prayer on Aug. 19. It was known as Shantivanam in its beginning and had a more interreligious emphasis. Since 2011, the emphasis is more Catholic, eucharistic and Christocentric.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Vince Eimer, director of Christ’s Peace since December 2011, prays with others at the 50th anniversary celebration.

World Youth Day: A beautiful expression of our Catholic faith

Amajor highlight of summer 2023 was the World Youth Day pilgrimage. Almost 100 pilgrims from the archdiocese joined with 1.5 million Catholics from more than 180 countries in Lisbon, Portugal. The Aug. 25 edition of The Leaven masterfully captured through photography and written text the experience of our Kansas pilgrims.

I am grateful that the late Pope St. John Paul II conceived the idea of World Youth Day and, despite concerns as well as criticism from some of his advisers, had the courage to move forward with this bold initiative to engage young Catholics. Some feared that inviting thousands of young adults from different cultures who spoke different languages was a recipe for a riot.

Pope John Paul, as a college professor and university chaplain, had ministered to young adults throughout his priesthood.

St. John Paul was convinced — if he invited them to open their hearts to Jesus, challenged them to strive for heroism and encouraged them to live virtuous lives, young people would respond with joyful enthusiasm.

World Youth Day 2023 in Lisbon was the 17th such international gathering of Catholic youth, the first being held at the Vatican in 1984. I have only been to two previous World Youth Days — Madrid in 2011, and Krakow, Poland, in 2016.

Thirty thousand World Youth Day pilgrims came from the United States. On Aug. 2, the Knights of Columbus sponsored a gathering in a large park for the U.S. attendees. The U. S. ambassador to Portugal, Ms. Randi Carno

Levine, attended the event and addressed the young Americans.

Per chance, the ambassador sat next to me. She and her staff were amazed at the number and the enthusiasm of the World Youth Day pilgrims. I am not certain if any of our Kansas pilgrims remember anything from Ambassador Levine’s talk, but I sensed that the faith, joy and goodness of these young Americans made a lasting impression on the ambassador and her staff.

Some of the best Catholic musicians and vocalists led the pilgrims in praise and worship music. After an hour of witness talks and inspirational music, the Blessed Sacrament was processed through the crowd. The young pilgrims, with great devotion, dropped to their knees. The reverent silence of the young people was powerful.

Bishop Robert Barron gave a moving homily during eucharistic adoration. He challenged the pilgrims not to be afraid to live their faith boldly. Bishop Barron observed how American society is very risk averse and preoccupied with safety. Not suggesting that they engage in reckless or imprudent behavior, Bishop Barron challenged the young people not to be afraid

to take risks in living and sharing their faith. One of his key takeaway messages was to counsel young people, that when the symbol of what we believe is a man nailed to a cross, safety is obviously not our highest priority!

At the Saturday night vigil service as well as in his Sunday Mass homily, Pope Francis exhorted the pilgrims to be not afraid to follow Jesus and to bring his love to others. He challenged the young people as well as elders like me not to yield to discouragement when we fail and fall in following Jesus, but rather to get up and resume our journey as disciples of the One who revealed the depth of God’s love and mercy on Calvary.

Two weeks ago at Sunday Mass, from Matthew’s Gospel we read about Jesus questioning his disciples regarding what others were saying about him. Eventually, Jesus posed the much more important question: “Who do you say that I am?”

Peter replied for the apostles: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”

Jesus commended Peter for his answer, noting that it was not the fruit of human calculation but had been revealed to him by God the Father. Jesus authorized Peter, despite all his weaknesses and vulnerabilities, to lead his church! Our Lord identified Peter as the rock upon which Jesus would build the church. Our Lord even

entrusted to Peter the keys of the kingdom — obvious symbols of authority.

This past Sunday, we read the sequel to this passage. Attempting to prepare his disciples for what lay ahead, Our Lord declared that he must go to Jerusalem to suffer greatly and be killed. Peter rebuked Jesus for his dispiriting talk about suffering and death. Our Lord equated Peter with Satan, the tempter, pointing out that Peter is being led in his thinking with the wisdom of the world, not the wisdom of God.

These passages from Matthew’s Gospel are foundational for our Catholic faith. Peter and his successors, the popes — the bishops of Rome — have a critical role in the church. Peter was chosen, not because he was the best and the brightest. Peter was selected because, despite all of his weaknesses and other faults, he perceived Our Lord’s true identity.

What other world figure could bring together 1.5 million young people from literally every nation on the earth? Pope Francis was able to convene such an immense and diverse crowd because more than 1 billion Catholics from every continent in the world look to the pope as the successor of Peter. The pope is a symbol of our unity as Catholics. We all look to the pope as a spiritual father.

As this past Sunday’s Gospel illustrated, our reverence and respect for the pope does not mean he is immune from all error. Jesus had to rebuke Peter right after entrusting the keys of the kingdom to him, because he was making judgments based on flawed human wisdom, not God’s wisdom. Historically, some popes have been morally

ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN’S CALENDAR

Sept. 9 National Day of Remembrance prayer service — Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Kansas City, Kansas

Father Anthony Williams 40th anniversary of ordination — St. Michael the Archangel, Leawood

Sept. 10

Installation of Father Jaime Zarse — Sacred Heart, Shawnee

Sept. 11

“Shepherd’s Voice” recording — chancery

Confirmation — St. Stanislaus, Rossville

Sept. 12

Eucharistic adoration and lunch — St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Overland Park

Catholic Education Foundation board meeting — Savior Pastoral Center

Ethics Council meeting — chancery

Sept. 13

CEF School of Excellence tour — Holy Cross, Overland Park

Donnelly College board meeting — Donnelly Events Center, Kansas City, Kansas

Legatus Mass and meeting — Bishop Miege High School, Roeland Park

Sept. 14

Spiritual mentorship residential Mass and dinner — Savior Pastoral Center

Sept. 15

EOHSJ annual meeting — St. Louis

Sept. 18

CORE priests appreciation dinner — St. Michael the Archangel, Leawood

Sept. 19

Administrative Team meeting — chancery

Sept. 20

Presbyteral Council meeting — chancery

flawed and made some horrendous mistakes. Despite their personal weaknesses, the Holy Spirit has prevented them from leading the church into fundamental moral or doctrinal error.

Jesus did not give the church a complex and detailed organizational chart. Nor did Jesus pass out to his disciples copies of the New Testament. Instead, Our Lord gave to the church the apostles, with Peter as their leader. It was to this group that Jesus entrusted the authority of guiding and shepherding the church.

If the church does not have a pope, the successor of Peter, then everyone becomes their own pope! This is exactly what has happened in Protestantism. The Protestant principle is to divide if you disagree. This has led to the fracturing of Christianity into thousands of sects and denominations. World Youth Day is a beautiful expression and fruit of our Catholic faith. World Youth Day reminded me once again, despite all our struggles, of the great blessing of our Catholic faith. It is great to be Catholic.

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS

ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN

Catholic Hospice House renamed in honor of Our Lady

By JD Benning Special to The Leaven

LENEXA — Our Lady has been vigilant and present at the Catholic Community Health hospice house here since ground was broken on the facility in 2019.

But now it’s official. On Aug. 22, the memorial of the Queenship of Mary, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, surrounded by a large crowd of supporters and health care professionals, dedicated Our Lady of Grace Hospice House at Villa St. Francis to the Blessed Mother in a special naming ceremony.

New Catholic Community Health CEO Brad Heidrick welcomed all present.

“I’m grateful and humbled to see so many people gathered here for the dedication of the hospice house,” he said. “Through the support of people like Barb and Greg Trum and the endorsement of Archbishop Naumann, we have a beautiful facility, complete with a Blessed Sacrament chapel, that those approaching the end of life and their families can go through a challenging time with less stress and worry.”

“It’s our mission,” he added, “to be faithful to Jesus’ call to care for the sick and dying. We’re proud to be the only Catholic hospice and senior care option in the archdiocese, and glad that this facility is available for those in our area.”

When the hospice house opened in 2020, the Trums had a vision for those approaching the end of life.

“We wanted to create a sacred space that those preparing for the end of life could not only have a blessed place to enter eternal life, but also [where] they would be surrounded by their loved ones, the talented [Catholic Community] hospice staff and volunteers,” Greg Trum said.

“Barb and I have sat and prayed with many people during their final hours,” he added.

The hospice house at Villa St. Francis was “designed to transform the end of life into a blessed time.”

The wing, attached to the north end of Villa St. Francis, features four private suites, six semiprivate respite rooms, the Blessed Sacrament chapel, and a kitchen and dining area for families to gather.

In his remarks, Archbishop Naumann spoke about the excellent service and experience he had when his mother was in the hospice house,

“When we moved my mother here from St. Louis, I was worried she wouldn’t survive the trip,” he said. “But once she arrived at the hospice house at Villa St. Francis, she not only survived, but improved.

“It was a great blessing for her and she had a great four months of life — really it was transformative. I’m grateful for the important ministry done by Catholic Community Health — helping my mom and our family but helping so many others as well.”

Catholic Community Health will recognize the Trums for their dedication to hospice care at their annual Fall Ball on Sept. 23 in Overland Park. For more information about this event, go online to: villasf.org/fallball.

Catholic Community Health is the official senior care ministry in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. Adherent to the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ “Ethical and Religious

Directives for Catholic Health Care Services,” CCH provides skilled nursing, memory care and short-term rehabilitation at Villa St. Francis;

services;

care

home

and hospice care at the hospice house and throughout the Kansas City metro area.

PHOTO BY JD BENNING

The Catholic Community Hospice executive team and friends celebrate the new name of the hospice house with Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann. Pictured, from left, are: Matt Kemnitz, Jackie Hollis, Duke Onkoba, Greg Trum, Barb Trum, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, Tiffany Howell-Clair and Brad Heidrick.

PHOTO BY JD BENNING

Archbishop Naumann, assisted by master of ceremonies

Father Anthony Saiki, dedicates the Our Lady of Grace Hospice House and its Blessed Sacrament chapel at Villa St. Francis in Olathe.

PHOTO BY JD BENNING

Sister Jaimol A. Joseph of the Sisters of St. Anne, a nurse at Catholic Community Health, walks the hospice house hallway with Barb Trum.

L ongtime Sister of Charity educator dies

LEAVENWORTH — Sister Delia Ann Lawless, 85, a Sister of Charity of Leavenworth for 67 years, died on Aug. 11. She entered religious life on Aug. 19, 1956, and took the name Sister Nicholas Marie in 1957 when she received her habit. She later returned to her baptismal name.

Born on July 31, 1938, Sister Delia was the youngest of three children. Her parents, Walter and Stella Lawless, were examples for her prayer life, taking her to Mass and praying novenas and other devotionals of the church.

She was influenced by the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth while attending St. Peter School in Kansas City, Kansas. She attended Bishop Ward High School in Kansas City, Kansas, and then earned a bachelor’s degree from Saint Mary College, Leavenworth.

Series for newly married couples kicks off

By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

TOPEKA — “You were never meant to go it alone.”

“Walk with other local couples (married 0-7 years) in laying a strong foundation for your life together.”

Thus reads a flier for the First Seven fall series, one of the archdiocese’s newest initiatives. It’s designed to encourage and support couples in the early years of their marriage.

In Topeka, the series is set to begin Sept. 14 with dinner at Christ the King Church, followed by monthly date nights — one at Christ the King and two at Most Pure Heart of Mary Church. A similar series will be held at Holy Spirit Church in Overland Park.

Piloted in 2022 at Queen of the Holy Rosary Church in Overland Park, the program was a result of a grant the archdiocese received from the Catholic Marriage Initiative.

In 2022, Brad Dupont and his wife Libby of the archdiocesan marriage and family life office, established the First Seven at Queen of the Holy Rosary with 10 couples.

“It was mostly focused on training the leaders,” Brad said, “training them so that they could do it this year all on their own after a year of good formation and training with us in the first place. It’s open to all couples married seven years or less, and certainly the more people the better.

“But one of our main goals was that the leaders are trained and formed and then they’re in a position the second year to really take off and do it on their own.”

Libby agreed.

“It’s based on the Evermore in Love immersion weekend, and [to qualify for the grant, it] needed to be some sort of new outreach or an expansion of an outreach. Our experience had been that we’d host marriage enrichment around the archdiocese. The Evermore in Love suite of programs is really popular, and it’s really effective, but we didn’t feel like your average newly married couple would look in the bulletin, see a weekend immersion retreat advertised and think to themselves, ‘That’s for us.’”

Scheduling an entire weekend, Libby said, can be difficult for couples.

“It’s a big commitment, and it’s intimidating to get people to commit

to a weekend for anything.”

So, what they did was create an onramp to those with the date nights.

After the dinner, the First Seven series includes three date nights during which the Duponts share insights and guide couples through an exercise.

“It’s just kind of a little taste of what the couple will get on the immersion weekend,” Libby said.

Many couples, Libby said, who have participated in the Evermore in Love suite of programs have told them they’d wished they’d learned some of the insights or skills sooner.

“Why not give it to them sooner? There’s an opportunity with newly married couples to lay down those really good habits,” Libby said. “It just makes sense.”

For more information about the First Seven fall series, contact the office of marriage and family life at (913) 7211570; send an email to Brad Dupont at: bdupont@archkck.org; or go to the archdiocesan website at: archkck.org. The cost is $50 per couple for all four events. Scholarships are available.

22nd Fellin Lecture to focus on Benedictine education

ATCHISON — The 22nd Mary L. Fellin Lecture is coming to Benedictine College here with a special presentation on Sept. 10 at 7 p.m. in O’Malley-McAllister Auditorium.

The Fellin Endowment Fund sponsors the lecture series, presented each year by the Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica Monastery, in order to support the liberal arts orientation of Benedictine College. This year, Sister Susan Quaintance, OSB, subprioress of the Benedictine Sisters of Chicago and a former teacher, will speak on “Holy Conversation: Is that the Crux of Benedictine Education?” The lecture

is free and open to the public.

In a lifetime of working with all kinds of people, Sister Susan has learned that the term “Benedictine education,” about which she is passionate, is wonderfully elastic and expansive. She spent over two decades teaching English and theology at St. Scholastica Academy, Chicago, the high school for young women sponsored by her community.

For the last 10 years, she worked in agencies in Chicago addressing the needs of older adults — first in the Center for Life and Learning at Fourth Presbyterian Church, and then at Comfort Keepers, which provides caregivers to individuals in their homes. She also directs the Heart-

to-Heart program, a ministry designed to assist senior citizens remain independent in their homes, at St. Gertrude Parish.

A longtime member of the American Benedictine Academy, Sister Susan has been a board member of that organization and was president from 2014-16. She also serves on the council of the Monastic Congregation of St. Scholastica and sits on the board of the U.S. Secretariat of the Alliance for International Monasticism (AIM USA).

She holds a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and earned a master’s degree in theology with a concentration in monastic studies from St. John’s University in Collegeville, Minnesota.

Sister Delia taught in schools in Colorado, Montana, Wyoming, Oklahoma, Illinois, Missouri and Nebraska. Later, she worked at St. Joseph Home in Kansas City, Kansas, followed by Saint Mary College and at the Sisters of Charity motherhouse in Leavenworth.

Sister Delia enjoyed crocheting, listening to and playing music, photography and traveling.

Sister served her order in many capacities

LEAVENWORTH — Sister Edna Hunthausen, 94, a Sister of Charity of Leavenworth for 74 years, died on Aug. 15. She entered religious life on Feb. 14, 1949, and took the name Sister Ann Jean when she received her habit. She later returned to her baptismal name.

Sister Edna was born on May 13, 1929, in Anaconda, Montana. She was the fifth of the seven children of Anthony and Edna Hunthausen. After her sophomore year at Saint Mary College in Leavenworth, she entered the novitiate.

Initially intending to study nursing, Sister Edna became a teacher when she was sent to replace another Sister who had broken her leg. She taught for 17 years in schools in Missouri, Colorado and Montana. She served as principal in Livingston, Montana. She also served the Sisters of Charity community as a regional coordinator for five years. She eventually got to train and minister as a nurse aide in California and Montana.

Sister Edna studied religion and pastoral studies at Gonzaga University, Catholic University, and Carroll College. She served as a pastoral minister in Butte, Montana, and then on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation in Montana.

Edna said that her life had been graced by the faith of those she served on the reservation.

Sister

Sister Delia Ann Lawless, SCL

Sister Edna Hunthausen, SCL

Sister Susan Quaintance, OSB

Benefit gala celebrates Catholic education

By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org

OVERLAND PARK —

“Thank you, all,” said Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann to the supporters attending the kickoff to the Catholic Education Foundation’s (CEF) Gaudeamus Gala. “You’re here tonight because you’re leaders in the community.

“We’re depending on you to help us make this the most successful Gaudeamus ever.”

Last year, the gala raised more than $2.4 million toward tuition assistance scholarships for at-risk students at Catholic schools throughout northeast Kansas.

“We have 332 kids on a list in need of scholarships in order to attend or stay enrolled in Catholic schools this year,” said Vince Anch, CEF executive director.

Anch noted that recent reports on public school’s poor math and reading grades have greatly increased interest in the Catholic school system.

“[Our students’ grades] have been going up before, during and after COVID,” he said. “Our schools today are stronger academically and they are by far more Catholic than they’ve ever been.”

The faith-based education that archdiocesan schools offer not only gives students an excellent education but equips them with morals and ethics that help them use that education for good.

No one knows that better than Craig Gaffney and his wife Karen, this year’s Gaudeamus board chairs.

Both attended Catholic schools now supported by CEF.

“Gaudeamus means ‘Let us rejoice,’” said Gaffney. “And that’s exactly what we’ll do on Oct. 28. Over 1000 people attend the gala each year.

University of Saint Mary named to one ‘Best in the Midwest’ regional college list

LEAVENWORTH — The University of Saint Mary here has once again been recognized as a Best Midwestern College by The Princeton Review, earning inclusion on the 2024 Best in the Midwest list in the Review’s Best Regional Colleges feature.

The annual listing honors schools based on student feedback regarding academics, college life and their fellow students. USM has earned the honor for 19 consecutive years.

Tickets are available now

This year’s Gaudeamus will be held on Oct. 28 at the Overland Park Convention Center. More information about the event and the 2023 honorees is available online at: cefgala.org.

“It includes an open bar, reception, great dinner, live music and a very memorable program.”

That program includes recognizing an outstanding CEF school with the School of Excellence award and honoring exceptional support of Catholic education with the Patty and Michael Morrissey Angels Among Us Award.

Holy Cross School in Overland Park will be recognized as the 2023 Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann CEF School of Excellence

This year’s Angels Among Us winner is the Byron and Jeanne Thompson Family.

“Honoring the Byron and Jeanne Thompson family is so fitting,” said Gaffney. “The Thompson family’s unwavering dedication to bettering our community I believe has been guided by their faith in Jesus Christ.”

During their lifetimes, the Thompsons brought about positive change and inspired countless individuals through their remarkable generosity.

Today, their legacy proudly lives on through their children and grandchildren.

The Thompsons’ grandson Colin Thompson, vice president of corporate administration for Country Club Bank, and his wife Cassidy are on the planning committee for Gaudeamus.

“I am a beneficiary of my family’s belief in Catholic education,” said Colin Thompson. “And I am forever grateful for the intellectual and religious formation my education provided me.”

The Thompson family has always considered education the key to empowerment.

“My grandfather was known to say, ‘Today’s students are tomorrow’s leaders,’” Thompson said. “Catholic education specifically ensures that young people are educated with a sense of integrity and a moral compass that is derived from the teachings of Jesus Christ.”

The kickoff event was a success, as patrons and sponsors were inspired by the mission that results in brighter futures for the Catholic school students who benefit from the funds raised.

“Our story is simple,” said CEF board chairman R.J. Gilden. “We grant almost 2,000 scholarships across 23 different schools.

“And these are our schools that, without that enrollment, would be at most risk of closing.”

Now in its 21st year, the Catholic Education Foundation’s Gaudeamus benefit gala is ranked the No. 2 charitable gala in Kansas City — second only to the Catholic Charities Snow Ball event.

“Thanks to our principals and teachers,” said Archbishop Naumann. “They help these young people develop the gifts and talents God has given them and give them the moral compass to use them for good.”

He then blessed those present for helping make Catholic schools accessible to more families.

“Help us to truly rejoice in the opportunity to help others be part of this beautiful mission,” he said.

The 150 colleges on the Best in the Midwest 2024 list are located in 12 states, including Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin.

The Princeton Review bases inclusion on the list on academic quality as well as student and family feedback on a variety of topics, including campus and community experience. Among student reflections were notes that advisers “make sure the students are well taken care of”; that the school “emphasizes faith and strong core values”; and that faculty are “very personal and great at what they do.”

In total, 630 schools were recognized with 2024 Best Regional Colleges designations, comprising only about 25% of America’s four-year colleges.

Rural event set for Sept. 30

ATCHISON — Join the Rural Youth Ministry Outreach and Northeast Kansas Rural Youth Council as they host an outdoor eucharistic adoration and shindig at the Rziha Farm here, located at 5443 Rawlins Rd., on Sept. 30.

The event begins at 6 p.m. Eucharistic adoration will be from 7 to 8 p.m. A country hoedown and s’mores will be from 8 to 10 p.m.

The event is free and there is no need to RSVP. Bring your family, youth group or just yourself to an evening of prayer and rejoicing. Find more information online at: archkck.org/rural/events.

Celebrate the Constitution

Constitution Week is Sept. 17-23. To promote awareness of the U.S. Constitution, the Marais des Cygnes Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution asks churches and organizations to ring their bells on Sept. 17 at 3 p.m. People are also encouraged to fly their flags and read the Bill of Rights.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann thanks supporters at the kickoff to the Catholic Education Foundation’s Gaudeamus Gala, which raises money for scholarships for at-risk students at Catholic schools throughout northeast Kansas.

The University of Saint Mary in Leavenworth has been recognized as a Best Midwestern College by The Princeton Review, earning inclusion on the 2024 Best in the Midwest list for the 19th consecutive year.

Leanna (Haverkamp) and Pat Baker, members of Sacred Heart-St. Joseph Parish, Topeka, will celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary on Sept. 10 at St. Joseph Church with an 8 a.m. Mass and on Sept. 16 with a dance and reception from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. at Sacred Heart Church. The couple was married on Sept. 18, 1958, at St. Mary Church, St. Benedict. Their children are: Ann Marie Jaramillo, Lou Ann Zirkel and Patricia Koch. They also have five granddaughters and seven great-grandchildren.

Ron and Margie (Normile) Moore, members of Sacred Heart Parish, Tonganoxie, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept. 15. The couple was married on Sept. 15, 1973, at St. Mary Church, Purcell. Their children are: Steven Moore, Shawnee; and Christina Moore (deceased). They also have one grandson. The couple will celebrate with a family vacation.

Mary and Frank Dodd, members of Holy Cross Parish, Overland Park, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept. 15. The couple was married on Sept. 15, 1973, at St. Isidore’s Catholic Student Center at Kansas State University, Manhattan. The couple will have a family celebration in Overland Park. Their children are: Regan Dodd, Baldwin City; Ryan Dodd, Washington D.C.; Reilly Dodd, Overland Park; and Rustin Dodd, Brooklyn, New York. They also have one grandchild.

Jean (Haug) and Jim Heinen, members of St. Michael Parish, Axtell, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a family trip to the Smoky Mountains in July. They also had a Mass and dinner with family and friends on Sept. 3. The couple was married on Sept. 15, 1973, at St. Mary Church, St. Benedict, by Father Bartholomew Dekat. Their children are: Jennifer Bowman and Brett Heinen. They also have five grandchildren.

Phyllis and Cletus Broxterman, members of Sacred Heart Parish, Baileyville, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on Sept. 2 with their family with a dinner and Mass. The couple was married on Sept. 14, 1963, at Sts. Peter and Paul Church, Seneca. Their children are: Joe, Steve, Randy, Ed, Michael, and Angie Roberts. They also have 11 grandchildren.

Robert and Gayle (Chiles) Burger, members of St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with family. The couple was married Aug. 18, 1973, at St. Joseph Church by Msgr. Michael Mullen. For their 50th anniversary, the couple renewed their vows at St. Joseph Church with Msgr. Mullen. Following Mass, they had dinner with family downtown. Their children are: Tim, Patrick and Larry. They also have five grandchildren.

Nancy (Weidner) and Dennis Wasmund , members of St. Paul Parish, Olathe, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 17. The couple was married on Aug. 17, 1973, at Holy Cross Church, Overland Park, by Msgr. Michael Mullen. The couple will celebrate with a family dinner. Their children are: Chris Wasmund and Melanie McKenzie.

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POLICY: The Leaven prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th anniversary notices. They are for parishioners in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas

DEADLINE: 10 days before the desired publication date.

INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:

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WHERE TO SUBMIT:

Email: todd.habiger@theleaven.org.

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Priest carries zeal for marriage enrichment into retirement

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

FRANKFORT — Father Jim Shaughnessy has proven that you don’t have to be on the roster to stay on the team. Make that teams, Teams of Our Lady.

In early July, Father Shaughnessy celebrated both his 50th anniversary of ordination and his retirement twice — once on July 2 with parishioners, and for a second time on July 9 with a marriage enrichment ministry that has become an important part of his life, the Teams of Our Lady.

Father Shaughnessy, formerly pastor of St. Michael Parish in Axtell and Holy Family Parish in Summerfield, will assist the area’s pastors as needed in retirement. Significantly, he’ll continue to be chaplain for two Teams of Our Lady groups, the first founded in the archdiocese.

Jim and Moogie Roeder, members of Annunciation Parish in Frankfort, were members of Teams of Our Lady for 10 years in California before moving to Frankfort in 2005.

“We asked Father Shaughnessy, our pastor [at the time], to be our chaplain,” said Moogie. “He’d never heard of Teams of Our Lady, but it sounded good. Not all teams are fortunate enough to have a chaplain because there aren’t enough priests to go around, although a religious Sister or deacon can be a Teams chaplain.”

Father Shaughnessy, she added, is very happy to continue as a Teams chaplain.

Teams of Our Lady is an international lay movement for the enrichment of marriages through Catholic spirituality. It started in France in 1938, when a couple asked a parish priest for recommendations on how they could live their Catholic faith as a married couple.

Today, Teams of Our Lady is in 90 countries and has 12,965 teams. In the United States, 4,490 couples in 40 states form 838 teams. The Teams organization has provinces and regions.

Kansas is in the U.S. North Province, consisting of 15 states.

Moogie estimated there are 50 Teams couples in the archdiocese, although she wasn’t sure because some may have become inactive during the

years of COVID. The majority of Teams are in the northern one-third of the archdiocese.

Teams consist of five to seven couples, with one couple acting as the lead, she said. Teams meet monthly at different places, couple members rotating as host. The usually three-hour gathering consists of a meal, light sharing, prayer, discussion of concerns or topics called “deep pooling,” sharing of couple activities called “endeavors,” a study topic, administrative matters and a closing with the Magnificat prayer. Together, the couples make an annual Teams retreat.

Additionally, each individual Teams member has a “Rule of Life,” and undertakes “obligations,” said Moogie.

A chaplain plays a very important role for the Teams, she added. A chaplain provides guidance and information, answers questions and offers advice. A chaplain participates in

meetings and activities as able. Father Shaughnessy attends both the monthly meetings and the annual retreats.

“[Being chaplain of Teams] helps my spiritual life and understanding,” said Father Shaughnessy. “It keeps me from thinking about myself and instead thinking of others.”

What Father Shaughnessy, an Axtell native, likes about his two Teams is that they are made up of people from the area where he came from and ministered in for decades. They know each other.

“We deepen our relationships and understanding of prayer, and it’s beneficial to admit our difficulties and ask others to help us,” he said.

And as a retired priest, he can be “more available” and go to meetings because he’s no longer so busy with parish administration or going to meetings.

“Teams are good for the couples and good for the parishes to which they belong,” said Father Shaughnessy.

Prayer ‘volunteers’ distinguish retreat center from others

>> Continued from page 1

“The second part of his vision [for the retreat house] was for it to be a place to help people learn how to pray and how to deepen their relationship with the Lord,” he continued. “That’s been the constant throughout the 50 years. There have been changes in emphasis and changes in style, but the mission has always been there.”

There are other retreat houses in the United States, but Christ’s Peace is probably unique not only in offering a wide selection of retreat options but also because of the residents who have forged an unbroken chain of daily prayer for 50 years, said director of operations Marie Baranko.

Christ’s Peace/Shantivanam has had 80 resident “prayer” volunteers through its history.

The anniversary day’s schedule included a Mass celebrated by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, lunch, a rosary, a tour of the shrines and facilities, eucharistic adoration and evening prayer.

“So many have come here and experienced God’s presence in their life, in

many ways, [as they] come to this holy space,” said Archbishop Naumann in his homily.

“We’re grateful to Father Ed Hays, who had the vision for this, and Archbishop Strecker, who supported this house of prayer — this special place where men and women come and experience the Lord, and open their hearts to the Lord, and allow the Lord to penetrate them in new ways, in profound ways,” he continued. “And so, we give thanks today for all those miracles of grace that have happened here.”

Andrew Salzmann, who teaches theology at Benedictine College in Atchison, visits Christ’s Peace twice a year with his wife Sibitha and their four children, with his marriage enrichment group, and for special events like the feast of St. Isidore.

“The grounds are beautiful,” he said. “They have a lot of beautiful trails and shrines you can walk around and reflect on the presence of God in creation and the beauty of creation as a witness of God.

“The people are very kind. Vince Eimer and Marie Baranko make everyone feel welcome and at home. The

food is good. The buildings are rustic but beautiful. And it’s a very prayerful place.”

“They have eucharistic adoration,” he added, “pray the Liturgy of the Hours and [celebrate] Mass. It’s a very special place.”

Gary and Susan Friedrichsen, members of Church of the Ascension in Overland Park, have been members of Christ’s Peace advisory board since 2014.

Gary was, happily, pulled into this by Susan, who organized retreats there for the Ignatian Spirituality Center in Kansas City, Missouri, where she is now executive director.

They’ve both fallen in love with Christ’s Peace and have become very close to Eimer and Baranko.

“Through all those years as [Susan] trained to become a spiritual director, she found this property to be wonderful for the ability of people to find Christ in the silence and the nature of these 120 acres,” said Gary.

“It’s so hard to find something like this in the [Greater Kansas City] metro area where people can have that silence with the outside noises and

distractions at a minimum.”

The mission and vision of Christ’s Peace hasn’t changed in 50 years, but the emphasis and programming changed with the renaming and hiring of Eimer as director in 2011, said Baranko.

In its first era as Shantivanam, the house of prayer had a more interreligious emphasis. Since 2011, the emphasis is more Catholic, eucharistic and Christocentric, she said. Guests of all faiths, however, are still welcome.

“We don’t check your ID at the door, but as far as the staff and programs we present to the people, we are more Christocentric,” said Baranko.

Christ’s Peace is open year-round. It has a formal, monthly retreat schedule but retreats can last a couple of hours, days, weekends or weeks. They can be done as a group or individually, directed or undirected. They can be silent, too. Retreatants can stay in the main building’s courtyard rooms or one of the cabins.

The grounds have gardens, paths through fields and trees, a pond, shrines and Stations of the Cross.

COURTESY PHOTO

Father Shaughnessy may have retired as a pastor but he will continue to be chaplain for two Teams of Our Lady groups. Teams of Our Lady is an international lay movement for the enrichment of marriages through Catholic spirituality.

[BEING CHAPLAIN OF TEAMS] HELPS MY SPIRITUAL LIFE AND UNDERSTANDING. IT KEEPS ME FROM THINKING ABOUT MYSELF AND INSTEAD THINKING OF OTHERS.

FATHER SHAUGHNESSY TEAMS OF OUR LADY CHAPLAIN

HEAT WAVE CAN’T HALT KELLY YOUTH RALLY

PHOTOS BY JAY SOLDNER

The record-high temperatures didn’t deter some 500 young Catholics from coming out in droves for the 26th annual Kelly Youth Rally held on Aug. 19. This year’s gathering included entertainment from musician PJ Anderson and his band, a keynote by humanitarian and motivational speaker Gia Chacón, and Mass celebrated by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann and priests from the surrounding parishes.

The hayrack ride from St. Bede Church in Kelly to the Lee and Jade Winkler pasture, the site of the youth rally, is a tradition that goes back to the event's beginning.

Gia Chacón — humanitarian, motivational speaker and founder of For the Martyrs — speaks to the crowd gathered at the Kelly Youth Rally. This year's theme was: “Love Like Jesus.”

Young Catholics from 17 parishes across the Nemaha/Marshall Region, as well as guests from Baldwin City, Flush and Wamego, enjoy the entertainment provided during the rally.

Musician PJ Anderson braves the heat to perform for some 500 young people gathered at the Kelly Youth

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann signs the T-shirt of Emma Kroger of St. Michael Parish in Axtell and Holy Family Parish in Summerfield, while Maggie Strathman waits her turn.

Owen Kostal, a parishioner at Holy Family in Summerfield, grabs a few water bottles to distribute at the rally while Danny Tangeman looks on. The ice-cold drinks helped keep attendees hydrated amid temperatures that soared to 105 degrees.

Father Viet Nguyen — pastor of St. Vincent de Paul Parish, Onaga; St. Patrick Parish, Corning; and St. Bede Parish, Kelly — proclaims the Gospel, while altar servers Trace Haug, left, and Blake Broxterman listen.

Youth Rally on Aug. 19. Earlier in August, Anderson performed at World Youth Day in Lisbon, Portugal.

Archbishop Naumann and Knights of Columbus from St. Bede Parish in Kelly and St. Patrick Parish in Corning prepare to process down the center aisle at the outdoor Mass that concluded the Kelly Youth Rally.

FAITH IN THE HEARTLAND

Austrian priest enjoys experience of ‘colorful’ archdiocesan church

By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — To be a universal brother.

It’s a concept that St. Charles de Foucauld (1858-1916) spoke of occasionally. And it’s one Father Mark Mertes, pastor of St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, was able to live out this past summer by hosting Father Janko Kristof, a diocesan priest of the Diocese of GurkKlagenfurt, Austria, a diocese near the Austrian-Slovenian border, for nearly two months.

Father Mertes was first invited to become a member of the Jesus Caritas Fraternity of Priests 36 years ago, shortly after his ordination. The fraternity follows the example of St. Charles de Foucauld, canonized by Pope Francis on May 15, 2022.

Today, the spiritual family of St. Charles de Foucauld includes numerous associations, communities and fraternities around the world. Here in the archdiocese, a number of Jesus Caritas groups composed of five to seven priests meet monthly to read Scripture, pray before the Blessed Sacrament and often share a meal and fellowship. The fraternity also seeks to imitate the saint’s example of being a universal brother to all and serving among those who are marginalized in any way.

Father Mertes’ involvement in the fraternity has deepened over time.

“The reason I stayed and the reason that I got more involved and got involved nationally is I really liked and was impressed by the priests who were in Jesus Caritas,” he said. “They were the ones who went to Venezuela. They were the ones who learned Spanish. They were the ones who were willing to live in the difficult part of town.

“So, I liked that. And then, as I got involved nationally, you meet the same kind of people from around the world and then that just becomes even more enriching.”

It’s through the fraternity that Father Mertes first met Father Kristof more than 10 years ago at an international gathering as national representatives of their respective countries.

“We met speaking Spanish,” Father Mertes recalled.

Fast forward to 2023, when the two priests reconnected through a mutual friend. As part of a modified sabbatical experience, Father Kristof had asked one of the fraternity members for help in finding a priest in the United States willing to host him for two months.

He actually found several — all ministering at St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kansas!

For the first week or so, because Father Mertes had to be away, Fathers Michael Van Lian and Timothy Skoch, the newly ordained associate pastor, showed the

Slovenian-born priest around the parish and the archdiocese.

After a trip outside the area to Springfield, Missouri, and Benet Lake, Wisconsin, Father Kristof returned to the parish on July 16, where Father Lian included him in the Burmese community’s celebration of Grandparents’ Day and Father Skoch helped him work on his English.

When Father Mertes returned on July 28 — and for the next month — he showed his friend around the archdiocese. And answered what turned out to be a multitude of questions.

One of the things Father Kristof hoped to take home from his visit was a better sense of how the Catholic Church in the United States operates. And, so, he asked questions — and more questions.

For example, he wanted to know how clergy and laity worked together in the parish, how many priests were in the archdiocese, how many dioceses there are in the United States and much more.

Two months gave him plenty of time, though, to answer most of them. While staying with Father Mertes, Father Kristof attended the Pitching for Priests game, visited Prairie Star Ranch in Williamsburg, attended some regional priest meetings, observed

some diocesan-level meetings at the chancery, volunteered at St. Mary’s Food Kitchen, visited the monastery of the Little Sisters of the Lamb, enjoyed the Croatian festival at St. John the Baptist Church in Kansas City, Kansas, shopped at I. Donnelly religious goods store in Kansas City, Missouri, and offered Masses in Spanish. He even won his first game of bingo.

Father Kristof also celebrated the feast of St. Clare with the Fraternity the Poor of Jesus Christ in Kansas City, Kansas, and engaged in street ministry to the homeless on Aug. 22.

Having experienced so much, Father Kristof said he is extremely grateful for the welcome he received.

“I can’t speak of the entire Catholic Church of America, having been here in St. Patrick and some parts of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas,” he said. “But my impression was that there is a greater commit-

ment to the faith and to the Catholic Church here, too, among the youngsters. I have seen more believers kneeling in prayer here — including young people. That fascinated me.

“In the parish, I also met a group of men, the Knights of Columbus, who consciously live their faith, support charitable causes and act as Catholics in society. Because they saw that I admired them, they made me a member the first time we met.

“But what also appeals to me are the many private schools that the church maintains here and thus has the opportunity to give young people a Christian and Catholic education.”

“The church here is much more colorful overall, just like the society,” Father Kristof concluded. “The special challenge here is to make the Catholic profile clear and to live it here, despite all the diversity.

“My impression is that here in this archdiocese it is possible to live both.”

Father Mark Mertes, left, pastor of St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, hosted Father Janko Kristof, a diocesan priest of the Diocese of Gurk-Klagenfurt, Austria, this summer. The two had met at an international gathering of the Jesus Caritas Fraternity of Priests.

Father Timothy Skoch, newly ordained associate pastor of St. Patrick Parish, helped show Father Kristof the ropes — literally — at Prairie Star Ranch in Williamsburg.

Synod assembly won’t be secret, but won’t be open to press, pope says

ABOARD THE PAPAL FLIGHT FROM MONGOLIA (CNS) — The Synod of Bishops is not a television show or a parliamentary debate, and its discussions will not be open to the public or to reporters, Pope Francis said.

“We must safeguard the synodal climate,” the pope responded Sept. 4 when asked by journalists about access to the discussions at the assembly of the Synod of Bishops Oct. 4-29. “This isn’t a television program where you talk about everything; no, it is a religious moment, a religious exchange,” he told reporters flying back to Rome with him from Mongolia.

The synod process began in October 2021 with a succession of listening ses-

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sions on the parish, diocesan, national and regional levels focused on creating a more “synodal church,” where each person feels welcomed, valued and called to contribute and to share the Gospel.

Pope Francis thanks homeless for helping with aid to Ukraine

ROME (OSV News) — If someone can be called “the pope’s team,” a group of homeless men surely can: They helped to unload a truck full of supplies for Ukraine Aug. 30, and Pope Francis personally thanked them Aug. 31.

“I asked them whether they’ll come again today and so they came all dressed in their work clothes. Instead of work, we surprised them with the Holy Father personally thanking them,” Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, papal almoner and prefect of the Dicastery for the Service of Charity, told OSV News.

“The pope knew they worked hard,” he said. The trucks were unloaded next to the Ukrainian Catholic Basilica of Santa Sofia in Rome, the main hub for distribution of aid for the war-torn country.

The homeless men from Argentina, Peru, Brazil, Italy, Dominican Republic and Congo stay temporarily in Palazzo Migliori, a palace-turned-shelter, located right next to the famous Bernini Colonnade.

When Cardinal Krajewski goes to Ukraine in September, it will be his seventh time there. Since 2022, he has

regularly delivered needed items to the war-torn country and also has prayed for the dead at the sites of mass graves.

The Dicastery for the Service of Charity, led by the Polish cardinal, spent $2.2 million in 2022 on humanitarian help for Ukraine.

Pope confirms ‘second Laudato Si’’ will be an apostolic exhortation

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Francis confirmed plans to publish a “second Laudato Si’,” which is expected to update and expand on his 2015 encyclical on the environment.

Greeting visitors in the Paul VI audience hall after his weekly general audience Aug. 30, the pope drew attention to the World Day of Prayer for the Care

of Creation Sept. 1, the beginning of the Season of Creation, a monthlong ecumenical period for prayer and action to promote ecological principles. The Season of Creation ends Oct. 4, the feast of St. Francis Assisi.

“On that date I intend to publish an exhortation, a second Laudato Si’,” Pope Francis said. The document will be the sixth apostolic exhortation of his pontificate and the first since his February 2020 post-synodal exhortation on the Amazon.

To conclude his weekly audience, the pope asked Catholics to join with “our Christian brothers and sisters in the commitment to caring for creation as a sacred gift of the Creator.”

“It is necessary to side with the victims of environmental and climate injustices, striving to end the senseless war on our common home, which is a global, terrible war,” he said.

The pope had mentioned the upcoming document Aug. 21 when he met with a group of lawyers; he said he was preparing the document as a “second part to Laudato Si’ to update it on current problems.”

In an article published on the British Jesuits’ Thinking Faith website Aug. 29, Cardinal Michael Czerny, prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, encouraged people to ask themselves, “What issues have emerged as significantly more dangerous and urgent today than their treatment in the 2015 encyclical suggests? What is our role in each one? What can and must we do about each one?”

CNS PHOTO/CINDY WOODEN

Flathead Lake near Rollins, Montana, is seen in this file photo from July 24, 2023. Pope Francis announced he will release a new document on the environment Oct. 4, the feast of St. Francis of Assisi.

CNS PHOTO/LOLA GOMEZ Pope Francis answers questions from journalists aboard his flight back to Rome from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, Sept. 4, after a fourday visit to the Asian country.

EMPLOYMENT

Group leader/after-school care program - Holy Spirit School, Overland Park, seeks a group leader for the after-school care program. This well-established program runs from 3 - 5:45 p.m. each school day. We want a faith-filled, responsible, organized and creative person. Applicants should know about child development and be able to implement age-appropriate activities. The ability to communicate clearly with children, colleagues and parents is most important to foster positive relationships. Contact Tessa Piscitello at (913) 492-2582 or email: tpiscitello@ hscatholic.org.

Staff member - Our vibrant parish, Curé of Ars, Leawood, is looking to add a detail-oriented staff member to support and enhance the children’s school of religion program and sacrament prep. Ideal candidates will be proficient at using Google Suite and/or Microsoft Office products to organize and format data from various systems. Additionally, this team member will work closely with the school of religion director to conduct occasional weeknight and weekend events. This position requires a minimum of 30 hours per week and includes benefits while offering some schedule flexibility. Must have good communication skills and be a practicing Catholic. If interested, please email resume to Bernadette at: bernadettemyers@cureofars.com.

Youth ministers and confirmation coordinator - Holy Spirit Parish, Overland Park, is seeking a fulltime youth minister and confirmation coordinator. This individual would be responsible for all aspects of high school and junior high ministries as well as the confirmation and summer programs. Applicants must have a heart for teens, love of the church and its teachings, and should have a bachelor’s degree in the field of theology, ministry or a related field. Previous experience in youth formation preferred. To apply, send a cover letter and resume to the parish manager, Shaw Leach, at: sleach@hscatholic.org.

In-home caregiver - We are looking for an engaging in-home caregiver for our son with special needs in western Shawnee. He loves music, interacting with others, reading books, and is learning new life skills. Help needed weekdays (anytime between 3-10 p.m.) and some shifts on weekends @ $17/hr. Please call (785) 393-1589.

Account and finance manager - Good Shepherd Parish and School in Shawnee is looking to hire a full-time accounting and finance manager. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: overall financial management; general ledger record-keeping; reconciliation of accounts; annual budgeting; and monthly reporting to the parish manager. The successful candidate will have: familiarity and competence with accounting systems and current technology; a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in accounting and five-plus years of relative experience. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are required, with the ability to manage a small staff; Spanish language skills are an asset. A demonstrated commitment to the Catholic faith and mission is essential, along with a desire to work in a positive, faith-oriented environment. This full-time position is eligible for parish and archdiocesan benefits. Please submit a cover letter and resume to: pthacker@gsshawnee.org. Resumes will be accepted until the position is filled.

Early Education Center (EEC) program directorHoly Trinity Parish, Lenexa, is seeking a program director. The program director is responsible for overall operation and administration of the Early Education Center. The EEC serves 250-plus children through our preschool, after-school and summer programs. This position oversees a staff of 35 - 40; ensures that EEC policies and staff fulfill all requirements necessary for state licensing; determines program curriculum; and maintains relationships with parents. This position is full time and qualifies for archdiocesan benefits. A full position description can be found at: htlenexa. org/job-openings. Interested applicants should email cover letter and resume to: smerfen@htslenexa.org.

Nonmedical caregivers - Saint Rita Home Care is hiring nonmedical caregivers for seniors. Seeking compassionate individuals to fill all shifts. We serve people in Johnson, Douglas, Miami, Franklin and Leavenworth counties. Kansas state licensed, nonmedical home care agency. Call or text Renee Margush at (913) 229-4267, or rmargush@saintritahc. com. Member of Prince of Peace Parish, Olathe.

Youth minister - Church of the Nativity, Leawood, is seeking a full-time, dynamic, high energy, consistently visible and creative Youth Minister to join the Campus Youth Director and Christian Formation team. This position will be responsible for working directly with the Youth Director to aid in the coordination of pastoral youth ministry for the entire campus including high school youth, junior high youth from both the parish school and religious education program, and parish young adults. Ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic who can work well in a team dynamic closely collaborating with the Campus Youth Director and the Director of Religious Education, displaying strong communication skills through a variety of points of contact, exhibiting interpersonal skills to foster mutual support from families of youth, and a passionate love for sharing Jesus Christ with all youth, knowing any contact with them is a touch point of evangelization. Qualified applicants should have at least two years’ experience in youth ministry or qualifying degree, have or be willing to receive Virtus training, and pass a background check. Please send resume to: jobapplication@kcnativity.org.

Assistant direct support professional - L’Arche Heartland is seeking an assistant direct support professional. This person would report to the community home supervisor. Key responsibilities include: utilize person-centered support plan to provide guidance, support, growth and development opportunities to each core member through attentiveness and caring; be a strong role model of appropriate behavior; foster positive and supportive relationships among core members as well as families and professionals; follow all policies, procedures and protocols to ensure core member safety; participate and contribute to house team meetings to ensure household is maintained to include regular upkeep, meal planning and preparation as well as event planning and community interaction; monitor and assist core members with the following as needed: personal hygiene, appearance, laundry, meal preparation, cleaning, personal finances and leisure activities while promoting core member independence; perform all documentation activities (financial, medication, behavior, etc.) as required by policy/programming while maintaining confidentiality; transport core members as assigned; administer medication, properly document and assist with securing refills; participate in and adequately complete training and recertification as required, both ongoing and upon hire; participate in community events and activities as appropriate. Required skills/ abilities: exhibit respect and caring for core members and all those involved in the support of group home residents; demonstrate excellent communication and organizational skills; have the ability to problem solve and manage conflicts objectively. Experience and education requirements: experience with persons with developmental disabilities (highly preferred). Have a valid driver’s license; have a high school education or equivalent. Pass all required background checks; maintain CPR/first-aid certification. Physical requirements: must be able to lift up to 25 pounds at times; must be able to perform activities of daily living such as cooking and cleaning; able and willing to assist in house maintenance/yard work. Include signature and printed name with application. Email: Assistant@ larcheks.org or call (913) 341-2265.

Full-time and part-time custodians - The Church of the Nativity Parish School has immediate openings for full-time and part-time custodians. Qualified applicants should have prior custodial experience, specifically in a school environment. Maintenance experience would be a plus. The full-time position is scheduled to work M-F from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the part-time from 4 to 8 p.m. M-F. Some holiday work is expected. Applicants must have a compatible work history, references, dependable transportation and be willing to participate in a background check. The Church of the Nativity expects to pay market compensation commensurate with experience and qualifications. Nativity has a history of retaining its employees, who enjoy the advantages of working at a vibrant, collaborative, faith-based place of worship and education. Nativity Parish School is located at 3700 W. 119th, Leawood. Nativity offers a comprehensive benefit program including medical, dental, vision, vacation and 401(k). Interested applicants should send resumes and work history to: mhyde@ kcnativity.org. No phone calls please.

Caregivers needed - Daughter & Company is looking for compassionate caregivers to provide assistance to seniors in their home, assisted living or in a skilled nursing facility. We provide sitter services, light housekeeping and light meal preparation, organizational assistance, care management and occasional transportation for our clients. We need caregivers with reliable transportation and a cellphone for communication. We typically employ on a part-time basis, but will strive to match up hours desired. Contact Gary or Laurie at (913) 341-2500 if you want to become part of an excellent caregiving team.

Make a meaningful impact today - Join L’Arche Heartland as an assistant in our Day Service Program. Contribute to the empowerment and enrichment of adults with developmental disabilities as they engage in meaningful daytime activities. Enjoy daytime hours, Monday - Friday from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. We have immediate full-time positions available. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes 100% coverage for medical, dental and vision expenses. Conveniently situated in downtown Overland Park. Training provided. Apply now by visiting our website at: www.larcheks.org/join-our-team.

Now Hiring - Drivers and Aides - Assisted Transportation is hiring safe drivers and aides to transport general education students and students with special needs in mini and full-sized vans, to and from school, job sites, and other locations in the community throughout the day, for the Blue Valley, Olathe, and Shawnee Mission school districts. Drivers earn $14 - $16 per hour plus bonuses. A CDL is not required. Aides earn $12 - $14 per hour plus bonuses. Part-time and full-time hours available. Retirees encouraged to apply. Call (913 521-4955 for more information or visit: www.assistedtransportation.com to apply. EOE.

Faculty and adjunct faculty job openings - Donnelly College, Kansas City, Kansas, is a Catholic college offering higher education for those who may not otherwise be served. Faculty job openings include nursing school faculty. Adjunct faculty job openings: clinical nursing and psychology pool, math and English both at Lansing Correctional Campus. Find job descriptions and details at: www.donnelly.edu/careers.

Caregiver needed - Caregiver needed one day a week to take care of elderly woman who is wheelchair-bound in the Overland Park area. Please call (913) 961-3213.

Instructional assistant (aide) - Holy Trinity School in Lenexa is seeking an instructional assistant (aide). This position supports both students and teachers.

Interested candidates: Please contact Holy Trinity principal Scott Merfen at: smerfen@htslenexa.org.

Staff job openings - Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, has the following staff job openings available: admissions counselor, director of development and facilities maintenance manager. Find job descriptions and details at: www.donnelly.edu/careers.

Caregiver - Are you looking for an in-home caregiving opportunity? The Shikles family is urgently hiring a dedicated and compassionate caregiver for the care of Stephen Shikles. Pay is negotiable. Up to 40 hours per week. For more information, please contact Lisa Shikles at (913) 229-2356 or lisa.shikles@ gmail.com.

Early childhood educators - With multiple locations in Johnson County, Special Beginnings Early Learning Center provides high quality child-care in a safe, loving Christian environment. Our classrooms are full and we are looking to add to our amazing team. We are looking for both full-time and part-time teachers for all ages of children. If you have an excellent work ethic, a heart for children and a willingness to learn more about early childhood education, we would love to meet you. For more information or to apply, call Carolyn Andruss at (913) 894-0131, ext. 102

SERVICES

Tutoring - for K - adult. Sessions are fun and meaningful. For more information, please call Kathleen at (913) 206-2151 or email: Klmamuric@yahoo.com. Faith-based counseling to cope with life concerns - Kansas City area. Call Mary Vorsten, licensed clinical professional counselor, at (913) 909-2002.

Double A’s lawn service Lawn mowing, mulching, gutters, leaf removal, brush removal and hedge trimming Free estimates, insured and insured. Alex Spoerre (913) 488-5195

Memory quilts - Preserve your memories in a keepsake quality quilt, pillows, etc. Custom designed from your T-shirt collection, baby clothes, sports memorabilia, neckties . . . Quilted Memories. (913) 649-2704.

ACT Prep - Founded by a Bishop Miege graduate, pathway Prep has helped over 250 students during the last four years improve their scores. In-person or virtual sessions available. For more information, visit: pathwayprepkc.com and contact Alex Pint at (913) 991-8217 or: alex@pathwayprepkc.com.

Stone painting - We are offering FREE ESTIMATES to any and all that are interested in painting this summer! We do interior, exterior house painting along with decks, fences, and much more. At Stone Painting we ensure professional quality and cheap services tailored to your needs. Call now at (913) 963-6465, or go online to: stonepaintingkc.com.

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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.

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HOME IMPROVEMENT

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Local Handyman - Painting int. and ext., wood rot, mason repair), gutter cleaning (gutter covers), dryer vent cleaning, sump pump (replace, add new), windows, doors (interior and exterior) honey-do list, window cleaning and more! Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118.

Handyman - I do bathrooms, kitchens, basements, tile and all kinds of flooring, as well as painting, staining, sheetrock, knockdown ceilings, decks and fences. My family and I always appreciate the support. Please call Joshua at (913) 709-7230.

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*LANDSCAPE DESIGN* FREE ESTIMATES

HABLAMOS Y ESCRIBIMOS INGLES!!

CALL LUPE AT (816) 252-1391

Haus to home remodeling - Let’s give that room a nice face-lift! Specializing in affordable room remodeling. From small projects to bathrooms and basements. We have lots of other services, too: tile, paint, carpentry, wood rot, decks, drywall, etc. Free estimates. For photos of our projects and to find out more about our company, visit us at: Haustohomekc. com or call Cole at (913) 544-7352.

Popcorn ceiling texture removal Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144. 30 years’ experience. Interior painting specialist. Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.

FOR SALE

For sale - Vintage Wurlitzer 2780 piano, (42” console) French Provincial Hallmark Cherry. Cambriole legs on piano and storage bench. Smoke-free home; excellent condition. Asking $500. Contact Maria at (913) 940-7296.

For sale - Two adjacent cemetery plots in the Henry addition of Mount Calvary Cemetery in Topeka. Lots are 547 Center and 547 East. Current selling price for individual lots is $2400 each. Asking $4000 for both lots. Seller will pay the transfer fee. Call Mike at (214) 676-0993.

For sale - Two cemetery plots at Resurrection in Lenexa. Plots located in the Assumption section near the front of the cemetery. They are valued at $5190 for both and selling for $4000. Please call (816) 3883573 and leave a message or email: cindzers@bell south.net.

For sale - One plot at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Kansas City, Kansas. Located in Lot 36, Section E, Space 4. Flat marker only. Price is $1300 plus $200 conveyance fee. Call Michele at (913) 269-4813.

For sale - Two cemetery plots at Resurrection Cemetery in Lenexa. Located in Assumption Garden across from the veterans memorial and under a tree. Valued at $5190, asking $4500. Call (913) 649-8072.

Residential lifts - New and recycled. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. St. Michael’s parishioners. KC Lift & Elevator at (913) 327-5557. (Formerly Silver Cross - KC).

For sale - Single plot suitable for regular burial or cremation. Mt. Calvary Cemetery, KCK. Section 11, lot 80, space 3-A. Valued at $2200. Sell for $2100 and I pay conveyance fee. Contact David at (913) 980-0042.

WANTED TO BUY

Wanted to buy - Do you have a car or truck that you need to get rid of? If you do, CALL ME!

I’m a cash buyer. We’re Holy Trinity parishioners. My name is Mark. (913) 980-4905.

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

REAL ESTATE

We buy houses and whole estates - We are local and family-owned, and will make you a fair cash offer. We buy houses in any condition. No fees or commissions and can close on the date of your choice. Selling your house has never felt so good. Jon & Stacy Bichelmeyer (913) 599-5000.

CAREGIVING

Family member with dementia or need help at home? - We specialize in helping seniors live SAFELY at home, where they want to live! We also offer free dementia training and resources for families and caregivers. Benefits of Home - Senior Care, www. Benefitsofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591.

PILGRIMAGE

Pilgrimage to Medjugorje - Dec. 27, 2023 - Jan. 4, 2024. Come ring in the New Year with us! Hosted by visionary Mirjana Soldo. For details, call Grace Legaspi at (913) 449-1806.

Classified Advertising

The Leaven reaches approximately 50,000 subscribers. Cost is $20 for the first five lines, $1.50 per line thereafter.

To purchase a Leaven classified ad, email: beth. blankenship@theleaven.org

Natural Family planning

St. John the Evangelist Parish (extra building)

200 W. 13th St., Lawrence

Sept. 22 at 6:30 p.m.

This class, sponsored by the Couple to Couple League, teaches how to use the sympto-thermal method of natural family planning during the postpartum period. For more information about this class or other self-paced online classes, call Shannon or John Rasmussen at (785) 749-1015. Preregistration is required online at: www.ccli.org.

NATIONAL DAY OF REMEMBRANCE FOR ABORTED CHILDREN

Gate of Heaven Cemetery

126th and Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kansas

Sept. 9 at 11 a.m.

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann will preside over the service. It will begin in the chapel and then process to the Memorial for Unborn Victims of Violence. For more information, call Tina Jinkens, vice president of Planned Parenthood Exposed, at (785) 615-8373.

Bingo Night

Sacred Heart Parish

2646 S. 34th St., Kansas City, Kansas

Sept. 9 at 7 p.m.

Sacred Heart Knights of Columbus will be hosting bingo. Refreshments will be sold. There will be cash prizes. Questions? Call Bob at (913) 850-3348.

REnew

* REFLECT * RETREAT

Holy Trinity Parish

(Father Quigley Center)

13615 W. 92nd St., Lenexa

Sept. 9 from 8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Join us for a morning to strengthen your relationship with the Holy Spirit in both personal prayer and relationships with others.

Tesi Carmona Wagoner and Andre Regnier from Catholic Christian Outreach will be speaking at this event. We will share prayer, practical exercises and conversations on the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. The retreat will be bilingual. Registration is $20 per person and includes lunch and materials. To register and for questions, send an email to Emily Lopez at: elopez@archkck.org or Karla Melgar at: kmelgar@archkck.org.

Holy rosary rally

Christ the King Parish

3024 N. 53rd St., Kansas City, Kansas

Sept. 10 from 3 - 4:15 p.m.

We will pray the joyful, sorrowful and glorious mysteries of the rosary. Benediction will follow, as well as an opportunity for attendees to enroll in the brown scapular. For more information, visit the website at: www.rosaryrallieskc.org.

Eric GEnius Concert

Church of the Ascension

9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park

Sept 14 at 7 p.m.

A concert by Eric Genius — composer, songwriter and storyteller — will be a night with friends and to raise funds for prison ministry. Freewill offerings and sponsor opportunities are available by contacting Karen Kellerman by email at: kkellerman@ acseagles.org or Chuck Jansen at: jansen chuck@gmail.com.

‘Through the triumph of the cross’

Christ’s Peace House of Prayer

22131 Meager Rd., Easton

Sept. 15 - 17

The retreat begins at 5:30 p.m. on Sept. 15 and ends at 4:30 p.m. on Sept. 17. Father John Riccardo’s newest book, “Rescued,” will help guide our retreat. There will be conferences, Eucharistic adoration, confession, and time for private prayer, reflection and walking. Cabins/courtyard rooms are: $170 single/$250 couple, or single guest rooms $100 (meals included). To attend, fill out the individual retreat form online at: ChristsPeace.com or call (913) 773-8255.

breathe respite night

Church of the Ascension

9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park

Sept. 16 from 4 - 9 p.m.

BREATHE is a respite care service for parents/guardians of a child with special needs to give them a break from caregiving. We provide activities such as arts and crafts, music and games and also have a meal together. We pray together as well.

Project rachel retreat

Location in Lenexa given after registration

Sept. 16 from 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

We are offering a one-day retreat that can help you on the road to healing in a judgment- free, confidential environment. There is no cost to attend. Continental breakfast, lunch and materials are provided. To register, send an email to: project rachelkc@archkck.org or text/call (913) 6212199. Registration deadline is Sept. 11.

150TH ANNIVERSARY

St. Patrick Parish

1066 N. 94th, Kansas City, Kansas

Sept. 16 at 4 p.m.

St. Patrick Parish celebration kickoff will begin with Mass at 4 p.m., followed by a social celebration from 5 - 9 p.m.

ANNUNCIATION PARISH PICNIC

Annunciation Parish (Cigna Center)

402 Maple St., Frankfort

Sept. 16 from 4:30 - 7:30 p.m.

A roast beef dinner will be served. The cost is $14 for adults and $6 for children ages 5 - 10. There will be games for all ages, a raffle drawing for a quilt, prizes and a country store. Come enjoy some great family fun and food with us!

Bereavement meeting

Curé of Ars Parish

9405 Mission Rd., Leawood

Sept. 16 at 8:30 a.m.

The bereavement ministry will have a grief support meeting after the 8 a.m. Mass. For more information, call (913) 6492026.

WORLDWIDE MARRIAGE ENCOUNTER

Savior Pastoral Center

12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kansas

Sept. 22 - 24

Rekindle the love and joy, the hopes and dreams that you and your spouse cherished on your wedding day by attending the

next Worldwide Marriage Encounter. This is an enrichment for married couples who value their relationship and desire a richer, fuller life together. It is also for priests and religious who want to strengthen their relationships with their church communities. Register online at: www.helpourmarriage. org. Questions? Contact Maggie Harris at (405) 206-1600.

SLOVENEFEST 2023

Holy Family Parish

274 Orchard, Kansas City, Kansas

Sept. 23 from 4 - 10 p.m.

We are celebrating 115 years of Slovenian culture. There will be a Mass at 4 p.m. at the church. The celebration will be on the Holy Family School grounds, 513 Ohio, in Kansas City, Kansas. There will be a traditional Slovenian dinner and entertainment. For more information, call Kathy Hanis at (913) 271-5101.

‘lectio divina in nature’

Sophia Spirituality Center

751 S. 8th St., Atchison

Sept. 23 from 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

This day-long retreat introduces you to the practice of “lectio divina” with nature. Rooted in the early Christian understanding of the two books of God’s self-revelation — the book of nature and the book of Scriptures — “lectio natura” recognizes all creation as a living scripture, a sacred text. The fee of $70 includes a noon meal.

Family day

Prairie Star Ranch

1124 California Rd., Williamsburg

Sept. 24 from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Prairie Star Ranch is offering the chance to step away and enter into a day of prayer, adventure, outdoor activities and time to reconnect. Families, friends and communities are invited to join us for fun activities including horseback riding, kayaking, high ropes activities and prayer. The experience will culminate with Mass. Register online at: www.archkck.org/ranch. Registration price goes up after Sept. 15.

Golf outing

Heritage Park Golf Course

16445 S. Lackman Rd., Olathe

Sept. 29 at 9 a.m.

Holy Spirit Knights of Columbus invite you to our golf outing where we will have a foursome person scramble, shotgun start. Knights, non-Knights, male and female are welcome and encouraged to bring your own foursome. Green fees, cart, two beverage tickets and barbecue lunch catered by Mr. P’s at the golf course are included in the price of $75 per golfer. Raffle and skill prizes will be awarded during lunch immediately following the round. Call Greg Davis at (913) 800-0581 to discuss hole sponsorship opportunities for your business. Proceeds benefit seminarians at Holy Spirit Parish. For further questions, call Davis at the number above.

Craft show and bake sale

Holy Family Parish (hall)

820 Birch St., Eudora

Sept. 30 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Oct. 1 from 9 am. - 2 p.m.

Looking for unique, one-of-a-kind craft items? Come shop at the Holy Family craft show in the parish hall. Find that special item as well as delicious treats at the

bake sale. Proceeds from the sale will go to support the parish peace, justice and human development programs. Crafters interested in renting a booth space should contact Linda at (913) 645-5386 or Melanie by email at: 19dobbins83@gmail.com for more information.

Uncorked!

Avila University

(Goppert Performing Arts Center)

11901 Wornall Rd., Kansas City, Missouri

Oct. 5 from 6 - 8 p.m.

Savor specialty wines, whiskeys and fabulous hors d’oeuvres with sommelier Jeff Cambiano of Veritas Wine selections. Details and registration are online at: www. csjsl.org/events/uncorked-2023.

Germanfest

St. Joseph Parish

747 Osage St., Leavenworth

Oct. 7 at 4 p.m.

The event will begin with a German Mass. After Mass, come to the gymnasium for a meal of sauerbraten, German potato salad, red cabbage, sauerkraut, brats and desserts. Dinner will be served from 5 - 8 p.m. Adult tickets are $12 and kids tickets are $5 (for a meal of hot dog and chips). There will also be music from the FesthausMusikanten German band. There will be raffles for a quilt, money and a German food basket. The pumpkins that decorate the tables can be purchased for $5.

ARE YOU CALLED TO BE A PRINCIPAL?

Chancery

12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kansas Oct. 10 from 4 - 5 p.m.

Come learn about the principal’s role in the mission of Catholic education. Please RSVP online at: archkckcs.org/register.

‘GOSPEL OF NONVIOLENCE: LIVING THE WAY OF JESUS’ Keeler Women’s Center

759 Vermont Ave., Suite 100-B Kansas City, Kansas

First and third Wednesdays

From 1 - 3 p.m.

In a world where bullets enter homes and violence disrupts neighborhoods, where the news seems to report more and more killings and war, come and experience the message of nonviolence that has been preached by Jesus and wise people through the ages. Register by calling or texting (913) 689-9375.

SOLUTION

DAILY READINGS

TWENTY-THIRD WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME

Sept. 10

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. 11

Monday Col 1:24 – 2:3

Ps 62: 6-7, 9

Lk 6: 1-11

Sept. 12

The Most Holy Name of Mary Col 2: 6-15

Ps 145: 1-2, 8-11

Lk 6: 12-19

Sept. 13

John Chrysostom, bishop, doctor of the church

Col 3: 1-11

Ps 145: 2-3, 10-13

Lk 6: 20-26

Sept. 14

THE EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS

Nm 21: 4b-9

Ps 78: 1b-2, 34-38

Phil 2: 6-11

Jn 3: 13-17

Sept. 15

Our Lady of Sorrows

1 Tm 1: 1-2, 12-14

Ps 16: 1-2, 5, 7-8, 11

Jn 19: 25-27

Sept. 16

Cornelius, pope, and Cyprian, bishop, martyrs 1 Tm 1: 15-17

Ps 113: 1-7

Lk 6: 43-49

Who will hear our cry for help?

As of this writing, it’s 43 and 96. For those who are not baseball fans, these numbers represent the Kansas City Royals’ woeful 2023 statistics: a paltry 43 wins against a dismal 96 losses.

The only consolation is that in less than a month, this misery will be over.

Sadly, there’s no avoiding sorrows in life. Some are minor, like the Royals record this year or kids having to readjust to “school mode.” Other sorrows are much more devastating, such as the death of a loved one, the loss of a job, the onset of a serious illness or the failure of a marriage.

So, when serious sorrows strike, where do we turn for help? An obvious answer is to find someone who has been there and can empathize with our situation. The fact that he or she has come through the sorrow can give us both hope and guidance.

FATHER MARK GOLDASICH

Did you know this month of September is dedicated to Our Lady of Sorrows? It’s an opportunity to reflect upon the seven sorrows or swords that pierced the heart of Mary:

• the prophecy of Simeon (Lk 2: 34-35)

• the flight into Egypt (Mt 2: 13-15)

• the loss of the Child Jesus in the Temple of Jerusalem (Lk 2: 41-51)

• Mary meets Jesus

MARK MY WORDS

as he carries his cross to Calvary (Lk 23: 2631)

• Mary stands near the cross of Jesus (Jn 19: 25-27)

• Mary receives the body of Jesus as he’s taken down from the cross (Jn 19: 38)

• Mary helps place the body of Jesus in the tomb (Jn 19: 39-42)

In addition to these sorrows, we also remember that Mary was a pregnant, unmarried teen, a widow and the mother of a convicted criminal. In short, we have a powerful intercessor and comforter in the Blessed Mother as we face the inevitable sorrows of our lives.

Pope Francis fre-

quently reminds us of the need for “accompaniment.” Having someone, especially God or the Virgin Mary, walk with us as we navigate the layers of sorrow can be a transformative experience, as this story illustrates:

Rabbi Moshe traveled to a strange land, taking along his donkey, a rooster and a lamp. Since he was a Jew, he was refused hospitality in the village, so he decided to sleep in the woods.

He lit his lamp to study the holy books before going to bed, but a fierce wind came up, knocking over the lamp and breaking it. The rabbi merely said, “All that God does, he does well.” During the night, some wild animals came along and drove away the rooster, and thieves stole the donkey. When the rabbi woke up and saw the loss, he still proclaimed, “All that God does, he does well.”

The rabbi then went to the village where he was shunned, only to learn that enemy

soldiers had invaded it during the night and killed all the inhabitants. These soldiers had passed through the same part of the woods where he was asleep. Had his lamp not been broken, he would have been discovered. Had not his rooster been chased, it would have crowed, giving him away. Had not the donkey been stolen, it would have brayed.

So, once more, Rabbi Moshe declared, “All that God does, he does well.” (Story adapted from Brian Cavanaugh’s “The Sower’s Seeds.”)

During this month, bring your sorrows to the Blessed Mother. Because she understands so well, we can pray confidently:

“Holy Mary, may we follow your example and stand by all your children who need comfort and love. Mother of God, stand by us in our trials and care for us in our many needs. Amen!” (Prayer from the Miraculous Medal Association)

Christians called to express love of God through love of neighbor

The bold witness to Christian faith expressed in the lives of many prophets and saints often resulted in their rejection, false accusations and condemnation to death.

Take Sts. Peter and Paul, who were both martyred for their fearless proclamation of faith in the saving power of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus.

VENERABLE BEDE

673-735

Born in Northumbria, in northern England, Bede was schooled at the Benedictine monasteries of Wearmouth and Jarrow, where he spent the rest of his life as a monk and priest. “Study, teaching and writing have always been my delight,” he wrote. He penned extensive biblical and theological writings, but his fame came as a historian. His most valuable work was “Ecclesiastical History of the English People.”

In 836, a church council at Aachen, Germany, called him the Venerable Bede and Pope Leo XIII declared him a doctor of the church in 1899.

Or consider holy men and women down the ages — like Sts. Thomas More, Maximilian Kolbe, Maria Goretti, Catherine of Siena and Josephine Bakhita, to name just a few — whose holiness and faith in Jesus

Christ challenged powerful rulers, totalitarian ideologies and unjust systems. The lives of countless saintly men and women remind us of the truth

and beauty of God’s word proclaimed this Sunday.

In the first reading, the prophet Ezekiel reminds the Israelites of their responsibility to serve as “watchmen for the house of Israel.” In this role, they were not to sit in judgment over each other. Rather, they were to express their love for God in love of neighbor, especially when someone strayed from God’s commands. For the commandments were not burdensome restrictions but trustworthy paths to discovering their dignity as children of a loving, creator God. When one person abandoned the ways of God, it was the responsibility of the

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Francis asked a group of Italian journalists to shun fake news and a love of scandal, including when covering the Catholic Church and the upcoming assembly of the Synod of Bishops.

“Help me to narrate this process for what it really is, leaving behind the logic of

community to lovingly point the way back.

Similarly, St. Paul reminds the Christians of Rome, and us, that love is the fulfillment of the law when he sums up the commandments in one saying: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” for “love is the fulfillment of the law.” Paul challenges our approach to the commandments. Do we see them as restrictive obligations that “take the fun out of life”? Or do we welcome the commandments as paths to encounter God’s mercy and peace through love of neighbor?

Jesus presents his disciples with a transformative vision of Christian discipleship

slogans and prepackaged stories,” he asked the group Aug. 26 as he accepted the “È Giornalismo” prize, which recognizes outstanding contributions to journalism.

Pope Francis told the group he realizes how “speaking of a ‘synod on synodality’ may seem something abstruse, self-referential, excessively technical, of little interest to the general public” but the whole process,

in the Gospel as he urges his disciples to exercise the loving (and often difficult) task of guiding those who abandon God’s ways and separate themselves from the community of faith. In return, they are to expect rejection, false accusation, and even martyrdom. Yet their service is an act of love for God expressed in love of neighbor for, as Jesus reminds them, “where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.”

For the courage to express our love of God in our love of neighbor, we pray, “Speak to me, Lord.”

which began in 2021 with listening sessions on the local, national and regional levels “is something truly important for the church.”

At a moment in history “when there is much talk and little listening, and when the sense of the common good is in danger of weakening,” he said, “the church as a whole has embarked on a journey to rediscover the word ‘together.’”

JEM SULLIVAN

Sullivan is a professor at The Catholic University of America.

Synod is ‘truly important’ for the church, pope says

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

Just knowing about God is not enough for deacons-in-training

The church has recently expanded the first stage of diaconal formation, known as aspirancy, to two years. The initial period of formation for seminarians has similarly been lengthened.

Deacon James Keating explains that those who are entering formation to become clerics need more time than ever before to “recover” from the long-term effects of our American culture. Formation is not merely the acquisition of knowledge or pastoral skills, but rather is a configuration of the entire person to Christ. Men may seek out the diaconate to

LEON SUPRENANT

“help Father,” which is a great starting point, but they need to go even deeper.

There are several aspects of our American culture that must

be purified for men to minister with the heart of Christ as deacons:

The first area is instant gratification. We’re not very patient about getting what we want. Yet, future deacons must learn to patiently wait on the Lord.

Then there is anti-intellectualism, which includes both

an excessive dependence on emotions (“if it feels right, do it”), and also a denial of objective truth. The church needs men who can internalize church teaching and conform their lives to it.

Another area is a broken vision of sexuality and marriage. Future deacons will be of minimal value in the culture war if they are morally and/or doctrinally compromised in this area.

Our American culture views Christianity as just another ideology or political perspective. Yet Christianity is not about trendy slogans or being liked, but rather it’s about a life-changing encounter with the living God.

Also, Americans find their value in doing, which is exactly backward. Our value comes from God first loving us and bringing us into relationship with him, which gives us our identity as God’s children, out of which flows our activity.

Then, there is selfreliance. As American men, we don’t need help and we definitely don’t need directions! Yet, the manliest thing we can do is drop on our knees and beg for God’s grace. We need men who deeply listen to their wives and who display their masculinity in their love for Mary and their solicitude for the church, especially the poor

and those who have no voice.

Lastly, men have disordered interests. Many things vie for our attention and captivate our American imagination. Future deacons must be open to an in-breaking of the divine into their American worldview. They must become fascinated with the things of God.

Even from these few examples, one can readily see that formation is not so much about what is added but about what is discarded. As deacons-tobe, that’s what they’ve signed up for.

In short, the faithful expect their clergy to know God, and not just know about God.

Marriage: A refuge from the inevitable crosses of life

Some things were just meant to go together. Peanut butter and jelly. Macaroni and cheese. Marriage and the cross. The cross is right there at the beginning. We vow to be true in good times and bad, sickness and health, richer and poorer. This makes sense, as we are signing up to love one another as Christ loves the church. And in a fallen world, there is always sacrifice involved in true love.

But marriage itself is not meant to be the cross.

There is a narrative out there that suggests that falling in love is a trap to get us to commit to one another. Then,

FAMILY MATTERS

real life sets in, and marriage becomes a cross that we drag behind us until we die.

Any wonder many people are choosing not

to marry?

It’s true that in some marriages, there are heavy crosses of addiction, abuse or infidelity. These are serious illnesses within a marriage that require serious treatment. But there are also less serious, “common- coldtype” sicknesses we

all encounter as well: misunderstandings, disagreements and taking one another for granted. These things don’t need to linger and make us miserable. Small, everyday frustrations do not need to equate to our marriage itself being a cross to endure!

When Brad and I attended our first marriage retreat and relationship skills course through EverMore in Love, we had a good marriage. But after eight years, there were certain crosses we were beginning to accept as a permanent part of our marriage. That retreat awakened us to an incredible

reality: It didn’t need to be that way! Even more wonderful was the skills course that followed, where we learned concrete strategies to grow in emotional, physical and spiritual intimacy.

Since then, we’ve been privileged to share marriage retreats and skills with many other couples. The experience has convinced us that our marriage truly is meant to be our refuge from the inevitable crosses of life. When a loved one dies, when the kids struggle, when the world shuts down for a deadly virus . . . our sacrament can become the well from which we

A stewardship way of life starts with prayer

When we speak of stewardship, most people tend to think the church is about to ask you for a gift. A gift of treasure, to be more specific. Or, the church might ask you to share a talent you have been blessed with, such as leading a parish organization, participating in music ministry or teaching a religious education course.

Thankfully, being a good steward goes much deeper than this. More than anything else, God wants our time. God wants us to spend time with him in prayer. He wants us

YES TO THE CALL

to know him and know that with him all things are possible.

Spending time with

Our Lord is the best way for each of us to give him thanks for all he has done for us.

It is stewardship at its core. We have heard for years — time, talent and treasure. It is not a coincidence that time is first on this list.

Recently, I heard Archbishop Naumann

say when speaking about our Catholic schools that teaching our children to build their relationship with the Lord through prayer is our greatest gift. That relationship is just the thing that is going to help us through the obstacles of life.

I also heard a priest talk about how God writes straight with crooked lines. His point was that even through the crooked obstacles of life, with God at our side the path will be made straight.

For me, making time for prayer is challenging — not because I don’t have time, but honestly, I don’t always make it a

priority. Making time for prayer is a commitment. As I reflect on my prayer life, I think about all the things to which I am committed. Some are good, like Sunday Mass and saying a prayer before a meal. On the not so good side, I don’t miss watching a Chiefs game or other big sporting event or checking in on my fantasy baseball team. But I do skip the rosary some mornings.

There are many opportunities for us to pray, such as daily Mass, eucharistic adoration, praying the rosary and meditation with the Holy Family School of Faith, and

draw the strength to meet life’s challenges. Our archdiocese is in the early stages of establishing marriage ministry in every parish. In whatever age or stage of marriage you find yourself, we encourage you to take advantage of local opportunities to deepen your own marriage so it can be a joyful sanctuary that helps you and your spouse face the trials of life. Join us for an upcoming retreat on Oct. 7 at Prince of Peace; Nov. 18 at Ascension; and Dec. 2 at Holy Spirit. Or contact Brad DuPont to find or schedule one near you: bdupont@archkck. org, or call (913) 6470301.

many other devotionals that are offered at parishes each week. I am always impressed and in awe of the people who are so committed to their prayer life. It’s time to commit to this most important part of living a stewardship way of life.

Once again, Archbishop Naumann is inviting the faithful of the archdiocese to submit prayer requests. He will keep these requests in his personal chapel and offer Masses for these intentions throughout the next year. You can submit your intentions on our website at: https://archkck.org/ prayerintention/.

Leon Suprenant is the co-director of the Office of the Permanent Diaconate. He may be reached at leons@archkck.org.

LIBBY DUPONT

Libby DuPont is a consultant for the archdiocesan office of marriage and family life.

BILL MALONEY

Bill Maloney is the executive director of the archdiocesan office of stewardship and development. You can email him at: wmaloney@archkck.org.

Totus Tuus helps youth grow in faith

By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org

GARDNER — “Oh, you can live your whole life being holy,” said first-year seminarian Keegan Colbern who grew up in Mother Teresa of Calcutta Parish in Topeka, “when you start young.

“Children get to grow up loving Jesus, being with Jesus, rather than finding him later.”

As a missionary with Totus Tuus, Colbern spent this summer helping children and young adults grow in their Catholic faith.

The Totus Tuus program, led by teams of young adults trained to teach classes on theological topics, both catechizes youth from first through twelfth grades and helps them develop a closer relationship with Jesus and Mary.

The last week of July, Colbern and his team served as Totus Tuus missionaries at Divine Mercy Parish in Gardner.

Missionaries are responsible for teaching classes to grades 1-6 during the day and hosting a program for grades 7-12 in the evening.

Colbern chose to be part of the program because “I really wanted to bring Jesus closer to the kids and bring them closer to Jesus.”

Part of the program’s appeal, especially for the youngest participants, is the lesson that faith can be fun.

The Totus Tuus experience is sprinkled with crazy skits, fun games, lively songs and fellowship.

“Children are fun,” said Colbern. “You get to see a lot of joy in them – joy that Jesus wants us all to have.

“It’s been really awesome, really life-giving. I get more energy as the day goes on.”

But there are quieter moments, too, when youth participate in the sacraments, eucharistic adoration and devotion to the Blessed Mother.

“My favorite time of day is when we pray with the kids,” said Colbern. “When we pray with them, we share our relationship with Jesus and I think they begin to imitate that.”

Gina Roberts, coordinator of children’s catechesis at Divine Mercy, was sold on the effectiveness of Totus Tuus when her own son participated in the program.

“I actually got to see a ton of growth as a parent,” she said. “He came home and from that point on, he would receive Communion kneeling, and on the tongue, because he told me something in Totus Tuus made him realize just how special it was.

“He was 8 at the time. That someone

as little as that made that connection; it just shows the merit of the program.”

Totus Tuus missionaries stay with a host family from the parish and are supported by volunteer efforts throughout the week.

“You apply to have the team come to your parish,” said Roberts. “The archdiocese provides instruction and we provide the meals.

“We have the most wonderful group of parishioners volunteering. They prepared the meals and gave us extra support in the room.”

The program doesn’t end when the children walk out the door. Participants are given learning tools to share at home such as cards that give suggestions for at-home discussion.

“It provides a very nice bridge for parents to start taking up a role as a catechist at home,” said Roberts. “It’s really unique in that sense.

“Not only are they coming and learning their faith, but there’s a way for you to participate in that faith as a family once they get home.”

Colbern’s experience as a missionary has been gratifying and encouraging as he discerns his own path in faith.

“I just have a particular interest in bringing anyone to Jesus,” he said. “This summer, it happened to be children.”

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD

Above, Missionary Rita Marshall interviews Hadley Lang during a session of the Totus Tuus program. The program is led by teams of young adults trained to teach classes on theological topics to children.

Left, children eagerly volunteer to participate in a Totus Tuus activity. The program catechizes youth from first through twelfth grades, and helps them develop a closer relationship with Jesus and Mary.

PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD

From left, Totus Tuus attendees Claire, Spencer and Owen cheer during a skit performed by their missionary leaders.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD