09 09 22 Vol. 44 No. 6

MANY HAPPY RETURNS

Computer whiz gives back to nonprofit

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

OVERLAND

PARK — If his Catholic upbringing taught him anything, it’s that giving back is the key to a happy life.

That lesson continues to guide en trepreneur Paul Wamser.

“I feel like if you take care of people and you do what’s right, it’s going to come back tenfold,” he said. “If you treat them with respect and do the right thing, it will come around.”

Wamser, whose family attends Divine Mercy Parish in Gardner, built his own business during his time as student at the University of Saint Mary in Leavenworth.

The goal was initially to earn some spending money, but his passion for helping small businesses grew.

In 2012, Wamser officially launched Z3 Technologies, a company that provides various technological ser vices to other companies, including

IT consulting, website development, and data and voice cabling.

For the past decade, Z3 has worked with small businesses and nonprofits to set up apps, computers, networks, SEO services, servers and more.

It even helped SwimZip, a UV pro tective swimwear company, set up its website before it appeared on ABC’s television show “Shark Tank.”

But one aspect Wamser appreci ates most about his work is giving back to the community. Whenever possible, the small six-person team donates time and materials to busi nesses in Wamser’sneed.team has helped organi zations like Christian Psychological Services, KC Auction Angels and Pa triotsTheRun.company also recently do nated more than 40 hours of time, as well as a firewall and other materials, to help The Golden Scoop up its IT game.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

Paul Wamser, left, chats with Brett Hughes at The Golden Scoop, an Overland Park nonprofit ice cream and coffee shop that provides meaningful employment for individuals with developmen tal disabilities. Wamser helped The Golden Scoop set up its IT infrastructure.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

Paul Wamser works with Amber Schreiber, co-founder of The Golden Scoop, to address the store’s technology needs.

As the fear of more abortions in Kansas increases, prayer is needed

KANSAS

CITY, Kan. —

On Aug. 2, the citizens of Kansas rejected the “Value Them Both” amendment to the stateAndconstitution.electionshave consequenc es, said Ron Kelsey, president of Planned Parenthood Exposed.

Earlier this summer, he warned that Planned Parenthood Great Plains was quietly preparing a “stealth clinic” at 6013 Leaven worth Road in Kansas City, Kansas. Now that the clinic is open, and “Value Them Both” has failed, Kansas can expect a huge increase in the number of all kinds of abor tions — even the most brutal lateterm“Obviously,type. Planned Parent hood opened the clinic to take advantage of the liberal abortion laws in Kansas,” said Kelsey.

“The Guttmacher Institute has estimated that abortions in Kansas could grow to 100,000 per year because of women coming from surrounding states that have more restrictive laws,” he continued. “They’ll come to Kansas for abor tions.”The total number of induced reported abortions in Kansas in 2021 was 7,849, according to “Abor tions in Kansas, 2021 Preliminary Report” from the Kansas Depart ment of Health and Environment.

“We have become ‘Bleed ing Kansas’ once again, as we first became known during the pre-Civil War battle over slavery,” saidKansasKelsey.City, Kansas, has an ex cellent central location in relation to surrounding states because of the interstate highway system and its proximity to Kansas City Inter national Airport, said Kelsey.

In addition to the various prolife ministries, including pregnan cy resource centers, Kelsey said the Christian community must re spond to the establishment of this clinic with prayer and Christian witness.

“We must increase our prayer efforts and combine them with ac tions,” said Kelsey. He urged Cath olics to participate in three events:

• National Day of Remem brance for Aborted Infants, 11 a.m.12:30 p.m. on Sept. 10 at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 126th and Par allel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kansas.

• Christian witness, 8 a.m. Mass on Sept. 17 at Christ the King Church, 53rd and Leavenworth Rd., Kansas City, Kansas, to be fol lowed by a procession and prayer on the sidewalk at 6013 Leaven worth Rd. Eucharistic adoration from 7 p.m. on Sept. 16 to 8 a.m. on Sept. 17 at Christ the King.

• Rosary and Divine Mercy

chaplet with Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, from 9-10 a.m. on Sept. 24, near the new Planned Parent hood Clinic in Kansas City, Kansas. Parking is available on the far east side of the Sunset Plaza lot across the street from Planned Parenthood. Do not interfere with convenient parking for plaza cus tomers.Tostay informed about Chris tian witness near the new clinic and Planned Parenthood Exposed, sign up for the free PPE e-newsletter by contacting Kelsey at: ronkelsey10@ gmail.com, or by calling (913) 9088290. To learn more, go online to: PlannedParenthoodExposed.org.

CALENDARNAUMANN’SARCHBISHOP

Sept. Installation11 Mass for Father Bill McEvoy — St. Law rence, Easton

Sept. “Shepherd’s12 Voice” recording — chancery

Sept. School13of Excellence visit — St. Gregory the Great, CatholicSept.Marysville14Education

Foundation board meeting — Holy Cross School, Overland Park

Sept. Spiritual15 Mentorship Mass — Savior

Sept. Equestrian16-19 Order of the Sepulcher of Jerusalem annual meeting — Omaha, Nebraska

Sept. 20 Mass with Bishop Héctor Cubillos Peña — Savior School of Faith meeting and dinner

Sept. Presbyteral21 Council meeting — chancery

St. Lawrence Center board meeting — St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center

Sept. Confirmation22 — Immaculate Conception, Louisburg

Sept. Rosary24— Kansas City Pregnancy Clinic

Sept. World25Day for Refugees and Migrants Mass — St. Patrick Church, Kansas City, Kansas

40 Days for Life Rally — Planned Parenthood, Overland Park

Oct. Consecrated1 Life Day Mass and lunch — Savior

Oct. Respect2 Life Mass — Curé of Ars, Leawood

Project Andrew — Holy Trinity, Lenexa

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann will lead a Rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet from 9-10 a.m. on Sept. 24, near Planned Parenthood Clinic at 6013 Leavenworth Rd.

By Carol Glatz Catholic News Service

CITY (CNS) — Beat ifying Blessed John Paul I, Pope Francis praised the late pope for showing the world God’s goodness and for living the Gospel without compromise.“Ournewblessed lived that way: in the joy of the Gospel, without compromises, loving to the very end,” the pope said.

“He embodied the poverty of the disciple, which is not only detachment from materi al goods, but also victory over the temptation to put oneself at the center, to seek one’s own glory” as he followed the example of Jesus and was “a meek and humble pastor,” he said.The pope spoke during a homily in St. Peter’s Square at a Sept. 4 Mass attended by an estimated 25,000 people under dark skies and rain, with an occasional roll of thunder and flash of “Withlightning.asmile, Pope John Paul managed to communi cate the goodness of the Lord. How beautiful is a church with a happy, serene and smil ing face; a church that never closes doors, never hardens hearts, never complains or harbors resentment; does not grow angry or impatient; does not look dour or suffer nostal gia for the past,” the pope said.

“Let us pray to him, our father and our brother, and ask him to obtain for us ‘the smile of the soul’” that is “transpar ent, that does not deceive,” Pope Francis said. “Let us pray, in his own words, ‘Lord take me as I am, with my de fects, with my shortcomings, but make me become what you want me to be.’”

During the beatification ceremony, which took place at the beginning of the Mass, an image of the new blessed was unveiled on a huge tapes try affixed to the facade of the basilica. The image was a re production of an oil painting, “The Smiling Pope,” created by Zhang Yan, a Chinese artist whose work combines Eastern and Western painting tech niques.The relic, carried by Lina Petri, the niece of the late pope, was a piece of paper, yel lowed with age, upon which the pope had written an out line for a spiritual reflection on the three theological vir tues — faith, hope and charity — the themes of three of his only four audience talks.

The materials for the rel iquary, a sculpted wooden cross on top of a smooth stone, were taken from where

Blessed John Paul was born and grew up in northern Italy.

In his homily, Pope Francis connected the day’s Gospel reading to the humble and Christ-centered way Blessed John Paul lived his life and to how Christians today are called to live their lives.

The pope said Jesus at tracted large crowds with his teachings, but he did not ex ploit this popularity the way some teachers or leaders do when they see people look to them as a source of hope for the“Thefuture.same thing happens today, especially at times of personal or societal crisis, when we are especially prey to feelings of anger or we fear things that threaten our future. We become more sus ceptible and thus, on this wave of emotion, we look to those, who with skill and cunning, take advantage of the situa tion, profiting from society’s fears and promising to be the ‘savior’ who can solve all its problems, whereas in reali ty they are looking for wider

approval and for greater power,” Pope Francis said. God, he said, “does not ex ploit our needs or use our vulnerability for his own ag grandizement. He does not want to seduce us with decep tive promises or to distribute cheap favors; he is not inter ested in huge crowds. He is not obsessed with numbers; he does not seek approval; he

does not idolize personal suc cess.”Christians should examine the reasons they follow the Lord, he said, and make sure they are not seeking: the sat isfaction of their own needs; personal prestige; social status or control; power and privi lege; recognition; and so on.

Christians are called to love, “to be purified of our

distorted ideas of God and of our self-absorption, and to love God and others, in the church and society, including those who do not think the way we do, to love even our enemies,” he said.

Christians must “love even at the cost of sacrifice, silence, misunderstanding, solitude, resistance and persecution,” he said. Because, as Blessed John Paul said, “if you want to kiss Jesus crucified, ‘you cannot help bending over the cross and letting yourself be pricked by a few thorns of the crown on the Lord’s head.’”

Among the family mem bers and devotees who car ried candles to place before the relic was Sister Margher ita Marin, a member of the Congregation of the Sisters of the Child Mary, who assisted in the papal apartments and was one of the Sisters who found the deceased pope Sept. 28, Candela1978.Giarda, the young Argentine woman whose mir acle cleared the path for Bless ed John Paul’s beatification, was unable to come to Rome because of a fractured foot from playing sports. She was 11 years old when she developed a severe case of acute enceph alitis, experienced uncon trollable and life-threatening brain seizures, and eventually entered septic shock.

After doctors told family members her death was “im minent,” Father Juan José Dabusti, who attended the be atification ceremony, encour aged the family, nurses and others to pray to the late pope for his intercession. In 2011, a panel of experts studying the cause determined there was no scientific explanation for her complete recovery and that it could be attributed to the late pope’s intercession.

Blessed John Paul, an Italian who was born Albino Luciani, served only 33 days as pontiff; he died just three weeks shy of his 66th birthday, shocking the world and a church that had just mourned the death of St. PaulAlthoughVI. his was one of the shortest papacies in history, Blessed John Paul left a lasting impression on the church that fondly remembers him as “the smiling pope.”

In his Angelus address after the Mass, Pope Francis asked everyone to pray to Our Lady, “that she may obtain the gift of peace throughout the world, especially in the martyred Ukraine.”“Mayshe, the first and per fect disciple of the Lord, help us to follow the example and holiness of life of John Paul I,” he said.

‘The smiling pope’ showed God’s goodness, Pope Francis says

CNS PHOTO/L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO

Pope John Paul I is pictured at the Vatican in 1978. Pope Francis led the beatification of Pope John Paul I in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican Sept. 4

CNS PHOTO/PAUL HARING

Pope Francis encouraged those at the beatification of Pope John Paul I in St. Peter’s Square Sept. 4 to follow the example and holiness of life of John Paul I.

New facilitators help weave ‘blanket of protection’ over vulnerable

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

KANSAS

CITY, Kan. —

Twenty-five men and women are answering the call to help protect children and vulnerable adults in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.

On Aug. 4 and 5 at Savior Pasto ral Center in Kansas City, Kansas, the group completed a two-day training session to become Virtus facilitators.

Now, in collaboration with local parish safe environment coordinators, they will schedule Virtus sessions throughout the archdiocese with the goal of educating people on the warn ing signs of abuse and how to act when someone poses a threat to children and vulnerable adults.

“We’ve been planning this training for a long time,” said Monica Lane, a pa rishioner at St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood.

“It was exciting,” she continued, “to see people from diverse backgrounds come together with such dedication to this vital ministry of caring and protect ing our youth and vulnerable.

“I’m eager to see the impact they have in our parishes and beyond.”

Lane led the training session with Franchiel Nyakatura, a parishioner of Our Lady & St. Rose in Kansas City, Kansas. Both women have been Virtus facilitators for more than 15 years.

Members of the archdiocesan office for protection and care were also pres ent for the session.

‘This training works’

Virtus was created after the Nation al Catholic Risk Retention Group gath ered with experts in various disciplines at a forum in March 1998.

Anyone in the archdiocese who teaches, volunteers or works with chil dren in some capacity undergoes Virtus training.“Since the inception of the program [in the archdiocese] in 2003, this is only the third time that new facilitators have been brought on,” said Sandy Vielhauer, protection compliance administrator for the office for protection and care.

The last time new facilitators were added was 2006.

“At one point, we had approximate ly 40 facilitators,” said Vielhauer, “and prior to COVID, there were only 12 remaining for the entire archdiocese.”

Jenifer Valenti, director of the office for protection and care, was excited to

finally welcome a new group of volun teers.“We are thrilled to be able to grow the program in this way and have all of these people willing to share their time and their talent with us to help spread awareness about abuse prevention and strengthen our safety net of protection,” sheValentisaid. said nearly 50,000 people in the archdiocese have already received Virtus“Statistically,training. studies show that in communities where they talk about sexual abuse prevention, there is a lower incident rate,” she said. “This training works, and we’re excited about it.”

A ‘blanket of protection’

Sara Baker, coordinator for Cat echesis of the Good Shepherd at Church of the Nativity in Leawood, was asked by her parish to become a Virtus facil itator.She happily agreed.

“It was just another way of serving the parish and also keeping kids in a safe environment,” she said.

Baker hopes to help “the parents and other volunteers be aware of the great opportunity we have to keep them safe.”

“When I was going through Virtus training myself,” she said, “I remember feeling overwhelmed and kind of angry that [abuse] even goes on [in the world].

“The more we know and the more people that know about it, the less it has the ability to happen.”

Geoffrey Calvert, a theology teacher at Bishop Ward High School in Kansas City, Kansas, was asked to attend the training session by his principal.

“Teaching at Ward and trying to get back to normal after COVID, we’re trying to become more diligent with the students doing service hours as part of a requirement for theology classes,” he said.The school hopes that once they are Virtus-trained, students will volun teer especially within its feeder grade schools to “be a presence for Ward and develop a habit of service,” said Calvert.

Vielhauer is grateful for the new fa cilitators. Her office hopes to eventual ly have one to two at each parish and school in the archdiocese.

“Virtus facilitators play a major role in our efforts to protect our children

Catholic upbringing shaped desire to give back

The Golden Scoop is an Overland Park nonprofit ice cream and coffee shop that provides meaningful em ployment for individuals with devel opmental disabilities.

While working with a client, Wamser heard that the shop needed help setting up its IT infrastructure, and he was eager to get involved.

“Paul’s help was crucial because we needed a network to conduct business,” said Amber Schreiber, co-founder of The Golden Scoop.

“Paul set up Wi-Fi and mapped our computers to the printer/scanner in our shop to be able to print signage, task lists for our Super Scoopers and

scan important documents to our email,” she Schreiberadded.said Wamser under stood how critical it was for a non profit like The Golden Scoop to have help.“Him donating his time and equip ment saved us a significant amount of money that we could then allocate to areas directly impacting the devel opment of our employees,” she said.

The act of kindness made a big difference for The Golden Scoop.

“Gestures like these mean the world to small businesses [and] nonprofits like ours,” said Schreiber, “and it solidifies that there are good people out there that want to help.”

Wamser, who grew up in St. Louis

and attended Chaminade College Preparatory School, said his Catholic upbringing has shaped his motiva tion to help businesses thrive.

“Being raised Catholic, it’s amazing being able to help and give back,” he said. “You get that sense of community.

“I find joy and happiness being able to help people in general.”

Whether it’s fixing a dental office’s X-ray machine or setting up a com pany’s Wi-Fi, Wamser feels like he’s making a difference.

“When I’m able to see [these busi nesses] operate and do what they love to do,” he said, “that also fulfills me.”

To learn more about Z3 Technol ogies, go online to: z3technologies. com.

The archdiocesan office for pro tection and care is currently accept ing applications for new facilitator candidates. To apply, visit: candidates.sooner3,tentativelyarchkck.org.totion.”God’siciesorg/protection-and-care/office/polarchkck.andclickon“VirtusProtectingChildrenFacilitatorApplicaThenemailyourapplicationSandyVielhauerat:svielhauer@ThenexttrainingdateisscheduledforFeb.2and2023,butonemaybescheduleddependingonthenumberof

and vulnerable adults,” she said, and creating safe environments starts with them.“Their work can make a profound difference in a child or vulnerable adult’s life,” she said. “We know that the more people we have woven into our efforts of safety, like the facilitation of these trainings, the tighter our blanket of protection will be.”

Mass of Innocents to be held Oct. 31

The annual Mass of Innocents to commemorate the loss of a child during pregnancy will be held at 1 p.m. on Oct. 30 at Holy Spirit Parish, Overland Park. For questions or more information, contact Brad DuPont at (913) 647-0301 or by email at: bdupont@archkck.org.

Celebrate the Constitution

Constitution Week is Sept. 17-23. To promote awareness of the U.S. Consti tution, the Marais des Cygnes Chapter of the Daughters of the American Rev olution asks churches and organiza tions 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 MOIRA CULLINGS

Franchiel Nyakatura, a parishioner of Our Lady & St. Rose in Kansas City, Kansas, standing, leads a two-day training session along with Monica Lane, a parishioner at St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood. They are training participants to become Virtus facilitators.How to become a facilitator

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

KANSAS

CITY, Kan. — The dollars are important, but they’re merely a means to an end.

The real job of Jane Schmitt, the new director of development for the Catho lic Foundation of Northeast Kansas, is building relationships — and, through them, furthering the missions of the in stitutions and ministries of the church in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.Schmitt was appointed director of development for CFNEK on Aug. 1. Previously, she was marketing coordi nator

“Thethere.primary duties for Jane in her new role are to build relationships with our existing fund holders — which are our parishes, schools and ministries — and seek out new donors for the funds

of the CFNEK,” said Bill Maloney, ex ecutive director of the CFNEK.

“Also, her role will be to build re lationships with our parishes, schools and ministries that do not currently have funds with the CFNEK,” he added.

Schmitt is the first director of devel opment for CFNEK.

“The foundation board thought it was important that we add staff that could go out and work with our insti tutions as well as individual donors to help them gather additional resources,” said Maloney. “We have a vision to grow the assets of the foundation . . . over the next several years.”

Schmitt is a lifelong member of Sacred Heart-St. Casimir Parish in Leavenworth. She is on the parish council, co-chair of the hospitality committee and leads the prayer card ministry. She is also a lector, usher and greeter.She and her husband Rob have

two adult children. While their son and daughter attended Xavier Cath olic School, she was on the board of trustees of Leavenworth Catholic Schools.TheSchmitts owned and operated two restaurants in Leavenworth for 22 years, one of them being Mama Mia’s ItalianSchmittRestaurant.isa1988 graduate of Im maculata High School, Leavenworth, and graduated in 1992 with a bache lor of science degree in leader studies from Kansas State University in Man hattan.In2018, she was hired by the arch diocesan office of stewardship and de velopment to be a field director for the One Faith, One Family, One Future . . . in Christ archdiocesan capital campaign. When that ended, she came to CFNEK in January 2020.

“One of my goals is to joyfully serve the donors well in their philanthro

py,” she said. “I’m eager to dive into this position. I’m hopeful once we have the marketing coordinator hired, I’ll be able to invest more time in this new role, and hopefully make a great impact in growing awareness and the funds at MaloneyCFNEK.”said Schmitt will be an asset to CFNEK thanks to her talents, skills, experience and knowledge.

“Prior to her joining the CFNEK, she worked with many of our parishes during the capital campaign,” he said. “She got to know many people . . . so she brings to us a strong knowledge of the“Jane’sarchdiocese.apeople person. She’s great at building relationships,” he con tinued. “So, we look forward to Jane continuing to build relationships and, with her passion for the mission of the church in northeast Kansas, she’s the right person for the job.”

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

Jane Schmitt is the new director of development for the Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas. Her job involves building relationships and furthering the missions of the institutions and ministries of the church in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.

Donald and Barbara (Frock) Stud nicka, members of St. Francis de Sales Parish, Lansing, will cel ebrate their 50th wedding anni versary on Sept. 16. The couple was married Sept. 16, 1972, at St. Robert Bel larmine Church in Omaha, Nebraska, by Father Eugene Kerwin. They have two children — David and Elizabeth — and five grand children.

Ruth (Prenger) and Allen Gur well, members of St. Michael the

Phil and VeronicaWarson,(Stimac) mem bers of Immacu late the8,marriedThesarydingtheirburg,Parish,ConceptionLouiscelebrated50thwedanniveronSept.8.couplewasonSept.1972,atChristKingParish

in Kansas City, Kansas, by Father Paul Miller. They have two sons: John Warson and Josh Warson. They also have eight grandchildren.

Connie (Novak) and Bill Barnes, anniversaweddingtheirebratewillTopeka,Parish,theofmembersChristKingcel50th

ry on Sept. 23. The couple was married on Sept. 23, 1972, at Holy Name Church, Topeka. They celebrated with an Alas kan cruise in July with family and with a family dinner in September. Their chil dren are: Jaime Frederick and Valerie Geier. They also have five grandchildren.

Claire and Carol (Jones) Kuck elman, mem bers of St. Paul Parish, Olathe, will celebrate their 65th wed ding anniversary with their family.

ed their 65th wedding anniversary in March with family and friends at Bilmar Resort in Treasure Island, Flor ida. The couple was married on March 2, 1957, in Chanute. Their children are: Cynthia Wamboldt, Lawrence; Angela Conrad, Kansas City, Missouri; Re becca Massoth, Leavenworth; and Mathias Massoth (deceased). They also have seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Dean and Cindy Hinkle,niversaryding50thedcelebratBasehor,Parish,AngelsofmembersHolytheirwedan

on Sept. 4 with family and friends. The couple was married on Sept. 16, 1972, at St. Boniface Church, Scipio. Their children are: Dawn Easley and Dustin Hinkle. They also have four grandchil dren and one great-grandchild.

ANNIVERSARY

sary on Sept. 1. The couple was married on Sept. 1, 1962, at St. Mary Church, Newton. Their children are: Laura Rogge, Barbara Gibbs, Susan Bennett, Nancy Battis, Dustin “Jim” Rogge, John Rogge, Thomas Rogge, Mark Rogge, Matthew Rogge, Joel Rogge and Peter Rogge. They also have 42 grandchil dren and five great-grandchildren.

Sept. 15. The couple was married on Sept. 15, 1962, at St. Peter Cathedral in Jefferson City, Missouri. Their children are: Mike Gurwell, Kristi DeBauge and Keith Gurwell. They also have four grandchildren. A family dinner is planned to celebrate.

The couple was married on Sept. 2, 1957, at Holy Name Church, Topeka. Their children are: John, Kris, Dean and Karl. They have 18 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

children are: Wendee Trieb, Jodi Fa therley, Alison Garner and Christopher Garner. They also have 12 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. A family celebration is planned at a later date.

• their parish

• the date they were married

• church and city where they were •marriedwhatthey are doing to celebrate

• date of the celebration

• names of children (no spouses)

• number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren;

WHERE SUBMIT: Email: todd.habiger@theleaven.org.

saryanniverweddingtheirebratewillLeawood,Parish,angelArchcel60thon

Arthena and Mathiassoth,Mas“Matt” celebratEaston,Parish,LawrenceJohn-St.ofmembersSt.

Judie and Daniel Rogge,anniverweddingtheirebratedPark,OverlandParish,CrossofmembersHolycel60th

William C. and SharonGarner,(Wickey) mem bers of Sacred Heart Heart.1962,riedcoupleonanniversary60thebratedTonganoxie,Parish,celtheirweddingSept.1.ThewasmaronSept.1,atSacredTheir

‘Shamrock’ event spotlights St. Patrick and longtime pastor

By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org

KANSAS

CITY, Kan. — “St. Pat’s sits across the street from some of the most in credible economic activ ity in the state,” said Matt Watkins, president of the St. Patrick School business team.

Watkins, like many fans of this school in Kansas City, Kansas, thinks it’s time for St. Patrick to be brought into the Naminglimelight.several major developments in the area like the Kansas Speedway, The Legends and the Homefield proj ect, Watkins continued, “That all gets a lot of attention; but St. Pat’s is doing what it’s always done.

“Educating and helping with the fu tures of so many of these kids that are in the background.”

On Oct. 22, the light will indeed shine on St. Patrick when it hosts Shamrocks for Scholarships, an inaugural event raising scholarships for students and honoring former pastor of St. Patrick Parish, Msgr. Michael Mullen.

With a nod to the school’s Irish roots, Shamrocks for Scholarships will be an evening of fun, food and music held in the main garage of the Kansas Speedway in Village West.

“It’s a cool, unique space,” said St. Patrick parishioner Michael Mor risey. “The garages sit right next to the speedway so folks will be able to see it up close and personal.

“Victory lane sits right there.” Morrisey and his wife Patty are helping facilitate this signature event.

“There will be a cocktail hour, and dinner with (Fiorella’s) Jack Stack Bar becue and MeMa’s Bakery,” he said. “There will be a short program during which Monsignor (Mullen) will be rec ognized.”Aspastor for more than 20 years, Msgr. Mullen has been a positive force in shaping the St. Patrick Parish com munity.

“He actually opened the doors at St. Patrick to the Spanish-speaking com munity and to the Burmese commu nity,” said pastor Father Mark Mertes. “He didn’t start the school, but he had a powerful role in it.

“And he did start the ministry of outreach to the communities that are particularly supported at St. Patrick by the Catholic Education Foundation.”

A graduate of Bishop Ward High School, Msgr. Mullen has a long and rich history in Wyandotte County.

“He has an incredible story,” said Watkins. “And I can’t wait to hear him tell it for people who may not know how passionate he is about our county, the need here and what he’s done for thatThroughoutneed.” the evening, there will also be a silent auction and a school raffle with cash prizes.

“The families of the school kids will be selling tickets,” said Morrisey. “And those winners will be drawn that night.”Guests will close out the evening being entertained by Liverpool: A Tribute to The Beatles, one of the most highly acclaimed tribute bands in the Midwest.Frommop-top hair and costumes to a vintage collection of instruments, the look, style and sound of The Beatles will come alive on stage.

The evening is a celebration of past achievements and a future pathway for students to receive a quality Catholic education.Withthat end in mind, different levels of partnerships are available for purchase and going fast. (See sidebar.)

“The partnerships are directed toward people who might be thinking

About Shamrocks for Scholarships

Date: Oct. 22

Place: Kansas Speedway Time: 6 – 10 p.m.

Honoring Msgr. Michael Mullen

Featuring Liverpool: A Beatles TributePartnershipBand levels range from $1,000 to $25,000 and come with tickets and benefits outlined on the Shamrock for Scholarships event page at:

andcanlatebependingpage-shamrocks-for-scholarships-1stpatrickkck.org/event-Partnershipsaregoingfast.Deonavailability,theeventwillopentosingleticketpurchasesinSeptember.Ifyoucan’tmaketheevent,youstilldonatetosupportthecausehonorMsgr.Mullen.

about what charities or causes they want to support,” said Father Mertes. “We want to appeal to them because the gist of this event is to provide scholarships for kids who otherwise could not attend a Catholic school.”

Partners will be acknowledged for their“Theresupport.will be advertisements all through the night,” said Watkins. “We’re going to have multiple visibility opportunities for partnerships out in the“We’recommunity.excited to help support those folks that are supporting us.”

But the real reward of a partnership lies in participation in the future suc cess of St. Patrick School.

“It’s a great mission,” said Father Mertes. “It’s a great way to put our faith into action.

“It’s a gift that bears spiritual divi dends and lifelong, generational bless ings for families.”

Father Cramer remembered as a ‘people-centered person’

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

KANSAS

CITY, Kan. —

Father Joseph Cramer, 72, a long-serving priest of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, died Aug. 30 at his “Fatherresidence.Cramer was a peopleloving and people-centered person,” said Father James Ludwikoski, a re tired archdiocesan priest. “He loved his priesthood and made service to his parish the focus and preoccupation of hisFatherlife.” Joe Chontos followed Father Cramer on the faculty of Savior of the World Seminary in Kansas City, Kansas, the last year it was open.

“He offered me a great deal of wisdom and advice about teaching the seminarians’ religion classes,” said Father Chontos. “He had an amazing rapport with the seminarians. He loved his teaching experience at Savior of the World and his ministry there. I know the seminarians all admired him and enjoyed being in his classes, so I had a hard act to follow.”

Father Cramer’s pastoral style, he added, could be summed up as peopleoriented, simple and basic — never complicated.

Father Cramer was born on April 21, 1950, in Gardner, one of five children of John F. (Jack) Cramer and Frances (McCormick) Cramer.

He attended St. Paul Grade School in Olathe and graduated from St. Joseph High School in Shawnee. He attended Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas; Kansas State University

in Manhattan; and St. Mary’s College in Lebanon, Kentucky. He completed his theological studies at Saint Vincent Seminary in Latrobe, Pennsylvania.

Father Cramer was ordained a priest by Archbishop Ignatius J. Strecker on May 28, 1977, at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kansas. He re ceived his first assignment as asso ciate pastor of Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood on July 31, 1977.

His assignments included being a chaplain at two high schools and a col lege; a seminary teacher and vocation recruiter; parish administrator; and as sociate pastor and pastor of 13 parishes. His last assignment beginning in 2006 was as pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Gardner, later renamed Divine Mercy Parish in 2011. He was on a leave of ab sence since 2017 and retired on May 1, 2020.“Whenever we’d go to Mass with our kids, he’d always stop and talk to them,” said Michael Jesberg, Divine Mercy parishioner. “He always had a smile on his face. You could tell he cared for every parishioner and every one he met.”

Rick Livingston, another Divine Mercy parishioner, said Father Cramer had a way of making children feel wel come.“We came in as new parishioners,”

said Livingston. “Father Cramer met us as we walked in. He shook my hand, introduced himself, and then paid total attention to my grandson. My grandson decided that [Divine Mercy] was the place to be. From then on, he looked forward to Mass.”

Father Cramer was preceded in death by his parents. His brothers and sisters ask that his friends and former parishioners remember him in their prayers. Funeral arrangements are pending and will be announced later.

Father Joseph Cramer

COURTESY PHOTO

As part of St. Patrick School’s “Reading Buddies” program, an 8th grade student ambassador reads two to three books each Tuesday to her small group of kindergartners. On Oct. 22, St. Patrick will host its inaugural Shamrocks for Scholarships, an event aimed at raising scholarships for students and honoring former pastor of St. Patrick Parish, Msgr. Michael Mullen.

FATHER CRAMER WAS A PEOPLE-LOVING AND PEOPLE-CENTERED PERSON. HE LOVED HIS PRIESTHOOD AND MADE SERVICE TO HIS PARISH THE FOCUS AND PREOCCUPATION OF HIS LIFE.

FATHER JAMES LUDWIKOSKI RETIRED ARCHDIOCESAN PRIEST “

THECATHOLICFACESMANYOFWITNESS

With most summer activities winding down and some fall activities already underway, The Leav en’s photographers can barely keep up with Cath olics witnessing to the truth of the Gospel across the arch diocese.

EVERYTHING UNDER THE SON

MINISTRY OF LECTOR

ALL ROADS LEAD TO HIM

Father Joseph Sellas, parochial administrator of Holy Trinity Parish in Paola, carries the monstrance in a eu charistic procession Aug. 19 around the church. Following the procession, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann led participants in eucharistic adoration.

THE BLOOD OF LIFE

Jamaica Gregory, a collection technician for the American Red Cross, collects a blood donation from Rita Herken, director of administrative services for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, during a blood drive July 29 at Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kansas.

Deacon candidate Curtis Keddy, a member of St. John Paul II Parish, Olathe, receives a Bible from Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann as part of the ministry of lector ceremony Aug. 28 at Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kansas. Assisting the archbishop is deacon aspirant Francisco Villegas.

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann incenses the outdoor altar before he leads the faithful in eucharistic adoration the park. The event was part of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas’ Eucharistic Amazement initiative.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

DANCIN’ IN THE STREETS

STRONG

BACK AT THE BOOKS

For the first time in three years, Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish’s Fiesta Mexicana returned to downtown Topeka. Begun in 1933, the fiesta is a celebration of Hispanic culture. It also serves as a fundraiser for the parish and Holy Family School. This year’s event featured a kickoff night of music and food on July 13. As part of the entertainment, the Ministerio de Danza Folklorica Sublime, KC, a group based in Kansas City, Kansas, danced to an enthusiastic response from attendees. The group features students ranging in age from 5 to

Students at Donnelly College gather for the annual Convocation Mass at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kansas, on Aug. 25. The Mass officially kicks off the school year at Donnelly.

Kasey Fewins, a kindergarten teacher at St. John the Evangelist School in Lawrence, gives new meaning to meeting her students where they’re at. The new school year has started for all archdiocesan schools.

adoration at Seneca City Park on Aug. 21. Participants processed from Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Seneca to

PHOTO BY BREONNA DUNIGANS

PHOTO BY FELICIA HOLCOMB

LEAVEN PHOTO BY FRAN REITZ

LEAVEN PHOTO BY MARC ANDERSON

INANCENTERSPREGNANCYSEEINCREASEVANDALISM

By Barb Umberger Catholic News Service

ST.PAUL, Minn. (CNS) — Angela Franey, executive di rector of Abria Pregnancy Resources, said recent van dalism at the organization’s St. Paul location and dozens of similar attacks on pregnancy centers around the country reflect recent anger and misunderstanding around the issue of abortion.Shealso believes the damage also stems from a misunderstanding of the mission of Abria and other like centers.

Abria’s staff love and help women, she said, and provide a variety of in formation so they know they have op tions.“We never tell them what to do,” she said, but instead, offer them informa tion to help make a fully informed de cision. “And we respect their ability to do that,” she told The Catholic Spirit, newspaper of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and AttacksMinneapolis.onpro-life pregnancy cen ters, like Abria, as well as churches have taken place across the country since early May, when a draft opinion of the U.S. Supreme Court decision in the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization case was leaked.

The court’s June 24 decision in the Dobbs case ultimately overturned Roe v. Wade, which had legalized abortion nationwide. The new ruling allows states to decide their own laws regard ingToabortion.date,there have been about 40 such attacks on centers and churches, and Jane’s Revenge has claimed respon sibility for many of them. Described as “a militant, extremist, pro-abortion rights group,” it was formed shortly after the leak of the draft opinion.

Since the Supreme Court’s decision, there also have been calls nationwide to crack down legislatively on preg nancy care centers that some believe deceive

Whenwomen.Abria was targeted by van dals Aug. 1, it was the first time the center had been attacked. That morn ing when Franey entered the back door of the center about 7:30, she found a softball-sized rock in the hallway that appeared to have been thrown through glass in both front doors.

Looking at the front of the building, she saw in red spray paint the words: “If abortions aren’t safe, neither are you.”No one has claimed responsibili ty for the actions, Franey said, which were reported to and were being

investigated by the police.

Abria remained closed Aug. 1 as staff cleaned up. But the center opened as usual Aug. 2.

“It’s safe now and no one was hurt,” Franey said. “Our goal is to make

things safe and secure again, to pick up the pieces, to meet the challenge face to face and continue to overcome these things with good, because that’s what weAbria,do.” which also has a location in Minneapolis, offers lab-quality tests, ultrasounds performed by trained medical personnel, medical consulta tion, and testing and treatment for sex ually transmitted infections.

Nonmedical services include preg nancy and parenting education, per sonal support services, life coaching, material assistance, referrals to com munity resources and more. All at no charge.Ifwomen choose life, Abria helps make it possible, Franey said, with baby supplies, education and refer rals to community resources. If people knew Abria’s mission, Franey does not believe individuals would turn as much to violence.

Abria receives some funding from the Catholic Services Appeal Foun dation in the Archdiocese of St. Paul

and Minneapolis and none from the government. About 90% of its funding comes from individual donors, Franey said.More recently, vandals attacked a western Massachusetts pregnancy center that provides women facing a crisis pregnancy with free diapers, wipes, baby clothes, strollers and car seats.Early Aug. 18, vandals spraypainted “Jane’s Revenge” on benches located outside of Bethlehem House in Easthampton, Massachusetts, near Springfield, along with the same mes sage left at the St. Paul center: “If abor tion isn’t safe, neither are you.”

Bethlehem House, which receives support from the annual Catholic Appeal of the Diocese of Springfield, also offers free pregnancy resources, including referrals for employment, health care and educational services. Families receive assistance until the baby is 18 months old. In addition, Bethlehem House offers postabortion counseling.

CNS PHOTO/CAROLEE MCGRATH, DIOCESE OF SPRINGFIELD

Vandalism is seen near Bethlehem House, a pregnancy center in Easthampton, Massachusetts, Aug. 18. Vandals spray-painted “Jane’s Revenge,” on benches located outside the building and the message: “If abortion isn’t safe, neither are you.”

CNS PHOTO/ANGELA FRANEY VIA THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Abria Pregnancy Resources in St. Paul, Minnesota, is seen vandalized Aug. 1. Attacks on pro-life pregnancy centers, like Abria, as well as churches have taken place across the country since early May, when a draft opinion of the U.S. Supreme Court decision in the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization case was leaked.

Misunderstanding of pregnancy centers’ mission seen as a reason for attacks GOAL IS TO MAKE THINGS SAFE AND SECURE AGAIN, TO PICK UP THE PIECES, TO MEET THE CHALLENGE FACE TO FACE CONTINUE TO OVERCOME THESE THINGS WITH GOOD, THAT’S WHAT WE DO. FRANEY OF

CRS gets aid to first families devastated by Pakistani floods

By Mark Pattison Catholic News Service

WASHINGTON(CNS)—TheinitialaidfromCatholicReliefServicesinresponsetothedevastatingfloodsinPakistanhasgottentofamiliesthatneeditmost.About2,300familieshavereceivedcashassistancefromCRS,saidMeganGilbert,aCRSspokeswoman.Thecashcanhelpthosefamiliesbuyfoodandwaterandmakerepairstoflood-damagedhomes,Gilbertsaid.CRSisworkingwiththePakistanigovernmentandlocalpartners,includingCaritasPakistan,tomeetthemosturgentneedsofthepeopleimpactedbythepersistentheavyrainsintheprovincesofSindhandBaluchistan.Thetollcontinuestoclimb.Therewere1,191confirmeddeadasofAug.31asaresultoftheflooding,andthenumberofPakistaniswhohavelosttheirhomestothefloodingisnearing1million.Anestimated2millionhavebeendisplaced,andone-thirdofthecountry’sterritoryisbelievedtobeunderwater.TherainsandfloodingbeganinJulyandhavecontinuedtohammerthecountryontheAsiansubcontinentformorethanamonth.“ThepeoplelivinginthedistrictsIvisitedwerealreadymarginalized,”saidGulWaliKhan,CRSemergencyresponsecoordinatorinPakistan,inamessagetohisCRScolleaguesintheUnitedStates.“Nowtheyhavebecomeevenmorevulnerableintermsoftheirshelterandlivelihoods.Withtheimpactofthefloodandtherain,wehaveseenpeoplelosethefoodtheyplannedtouseoverthenextfewmonths.”“Withwintercoming,weneedtomakesurepeopleareabletogettoplaceslikemarkets,”saidaseparate

message from Mohammed Adam Hamid, acting CRS country manager in Pakistan. “The other issue is clean water. The usual water supplies have been damaged or are unreachable, which means people have to walk double or triple the distance to collect water.”Subsistence farmers have been especially hard hit, as the seeds they had planted for their crops were washed away in the ongoing deluges.

“People who depend on rain-fed ag riculture lost everything,” Khan said. “The seeds they planted are all gone. Normally the people in these areas borrow from shopkeepers and trad ers, and now they will go further into debt.”While flooding has affected Paki stan from time to time in the past, the scope of this year’s rainfalls is vast. The toll exacted on infrastructure in Sindh and Baluchistan, where 86% of those affected by the flooding live, has been immense. Two key canals in the provinces were breached, the first

time that had happened since 2012.

In assessments of 25 communities in those provinces, CRS and one of its Pakistani partners, Community Development Foundation, found that 72% of water systems are damaged or destroyed and 79% of people have no food left. Moreover, roads and bridg es have been washed away, making access to and from impacted areas challenging. Nearly 1,800 miles of roads have been damaged as well as 129 bridges and shops.

Where the water has receded, families are clearing debris and mud from their homes and protecting live stock from mosquitoes, which were a main killer of large animals in the 2011 flooding.Afterthe cash handouts, CRS plans to provide shelter, restore livelihoods and access to clean water.

CRS highlights the dire needs in Pakistan on the homepage of its website, https://www.crs.org, with a button to click on urging, “Help Fam ilies Now.”

Pope praises commitmentGorbachev’stoprogress

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Francis offered his prayers and praise for former Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev, who died at age 91 Aug. 30 in Moscow after a long illness. In a tele gram sent to Gorbachev’s only child, Irina Virganskaya, the pope conveyed his “heartfelt condolences” to her, all family members and those “who saw him as an esteemed statesman.” The Vatican published the telegram Aug. 31. The pope expressed his spiritual close ness during “this moment of sorrow for the death of your honorable father, Mikhail. Recalling with gratitude his far-sighted commitment to harmony and fraternity among people, as well as to the progress of his own country during an era of important changes,” the pope offered his prayers of suffrage, “invoking eternal peace for his soul from the good and merciful God.” Gor bachev was known for his policies of “glasnost” (openness) and “perestroi ka” (restructuring) that set the stage for the breakup of the Soviet Union and the return of religious freedom.

Sister Suellen freed after five months of captivity

NEW ORLEANS (CNS) — Marian ite Sister Suellen Tennyson, who was kidnapped from the convent of her ed ucational and medi cal mission in Yalgo, Burkina Faso, in early April, has been found alive and is safe after nearly five months of captivity, a con gregational leader of the Marianites said Aug. 30. “She is safe,” Marianite Sister Ann Lacour said. “She is on American soil, but not in America. She is safe.” She said Sister Suellen was recovered Aug. 29 and the Sisters in the congregation have spoken to her. “She eventually will get back to the United States,” she added. Sister Ann told the Clarion Herald, archdiocesan newspa per of New Orleans, that she spoke with Sister Suellen by telephone. At least 10 armed men were involved in the attack in which Sister Suellen, 83, was abducted, the Marianites of Holy Cross said in an electronic newsletter at the time of the abduction. Since then, there had been no news of her whereabouts or condition.

Order of Malta gets new constitution, code

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — For the unity and greater good of the Knights of Malta, Pope Francis has promulgat ed a new constitution and code for the order, appointed a provisional sover eign council and called for an extraor dinary general chapter to be held at the start of the new year. The Sovereign Order of Malta has been involved in a process to revise its constitution and to promote its spiritual renewal since 2017 with the help of the pope’s special dele gate, Cardinal Silvano Tomasi, who had been working closely with the order. After the pope held a private audience with a delegation of the order Sept. 3, the Vatican published the papal decree announcing changes to the order’s lead ership and the promulgation of the new constitutional charter and code, which all went into effect the same day.

CNS PHOTO/FAYAZ AZIZ, REUTERS

A man wades through floodwaters trying to salvage his belongings following heavy rains during the monsoon season in Charsadda, Pakistan, Aug. 28.

CNS PHOTO/YASIR RAJPUT, REUTERS

Pakistanis reach out for food aid following heavy rains during the monsoon season in Sehwan, Pakistan, Sept. 1, 2022. Catholic Relief Services is working with partners to distrib ute aid for thousands affected by floods that have devastated the region.

SisterTennysonSuellen

EMPLOYMENT

Part-time center coordinator - Regina Caeli Academy Homeschool Hybrid is hiring a part-time center coordi nator. The center coordinator is the local administrator who oversees the day-to-day quality of the classroom instruction, promotes admissions, provides ongoing coaching of the local staff and provides Christian lead ership for the local families in Overland Park. Regina Caeli is a private, independent, classical homeschool academy operating in the Catholic tradition. Preschool - 12th grade students attend classical academic and ex tracurricular classes two days a week, and home-school the remaining days following lesson plans provided by Regina Caeli. Apply online at: https://rcahybrid.isolved hire.com/jobs/.

Part-time bookkeeper - Christ the King Church in Kansas City, Kansas, is seeking a part-time bookkeeper for the parish and school. Full-time option available for those with facilities management experience. Compen sation negotiable. Contact Father Nick Blaha, pastor, for a full job description and application (see below). Bless ed Sacrament and Christ the King parishes in Kansas City, Kansas, are seeking applicants for a full-time di rector of sacramental formation (also divisible into parttime positions for two applicants). Bilingual candidates preferred. The role is responsible for the Catholic faith formation of families through regular catechesis. The goal of this catechesis is to form catechists and parish leaders to share their faith and knowledge in a way that offers people an encounter with the risen Lord Jesus. Compensation negotiable. Experience with Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is helpful. Contact Father Nick Blaha, pastor, for a job description and application at: nblaha@archkck.org or (913) 336-1550 (call or text).

Early childhood position - Wonderful opportunity for adults interested in working with young children! Cath olic preschool seeks caring individuals to work with children in our three-year-olds classes. Position is part time. Great working conditions and immediate bene fits. Call Ms. Theresa, director, at (913) 248-4589, or email: tgavila@stjoeshawnee.org.

Senior director of human resources - Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas (CCNEK) is seeking to hire a senior director of human resources to join its executive team and lead the agency’s people and culture initiatives! The ideal candidate will have the managerial courage, stra tegic initiative and leadership experience to successfully promote and support the mission of CCNEK as guided by Catholic social teachings and in alignment with the agen cy strategic plan. This position reports to the chief oper ating officer and is required to be a practicing member of the Catholic Church. For more information about this incredible opportunity, please contact Dan Heiman, pres ident/owner of Cornerstone Executive Search, at (913) 341-7655 or at: danh@cornerstone-kc.com.

Teacher - Teacher needed to fill a position in St. Joseph, Shawnee, Early Education Center with the three-and-ahalf year olds. Related experience is preferred, and can didate must meet state and local requirements. Submit resume to: tgavila@stjoeshawnee.org. Questions? Call (913) 248-4589, ext. 4589.

Open positions - Maur Hill-Mount Academy seeks can didates for the following open positions: Activity bus drivers — as needed (must have or be willing to obtain a CDL); substitute teachers — as needed (must have a KSDE substitute teaching license or be willing to obtain one); and part-time regular para educator (working directly with students and student success plans). Ad ministrative assistant — Maur Hill-Mount Academy is seeking qualified applicants for an operations ad ministrative assistant, reporting directly to the school principal. The successful candidate will work daily from 7:10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Primary responsibilities include: a demonstrated ability to manage front office commu nications with multiple stakeholder groups; prioritize work and workflows; maintain databases; and manage written communication and internal reporting. Desired skills include: excellent communication skills and man aging multiple priorities. Compensation is competitive, based upon qualifications and experience. Dorm hall supervisor(s) – second- and third-shift Maur Hill-Mount Academy seeks qualified applicants for dorm hall super visor. Under general supervision, in coordination with the residential life director and other residence hall staff, the dorm hall supervisor guides and supports the devel opment of life skills; works with students to increase strong and positive academic strategies; ensures a safe, healthy and rewarding experience for all Maur HillMount Academy boarding students. This position main tains flexible hours, and works 4-8 hour shifts, typically from 3 p.m. to midnight and/or from 11:30 p.m. to 8 a.m. (or parts thereof). Shifts available Monday through Sun day, and sometimes has day opportunities on the week ends, depending upon student activities. Staff members provide direct and ongoing supervision, support and instruction to all assigned students, while assisting in the coordination of day-to-day operations of the dorm. Please send an email expressing your interest to Debbie Schneider, director of human resources, at: dschneider@ mh-ma.com. Positions will remain open until filled.

Youth minister - This position oversees diocesan support for youth ministry in parishes and schools in KCMO. The director also provides supervision of the summer camps and other youth ministry events such as conferences, trips and retreats. This position is full time and eligible for benefits and paid time off. Visit: www. kcsjcatholic.org for more information and to apply.

Workforce specialist - Looking for a driven person to promote and support the mission of Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas as guided by Catholic social teach ings by providing wraparound case management, career coaching and financial education to individuals and fam ilies in need through stabilization employment and St. Rita programs. This position will be a collaborative mem ber of the Workforce team whose purpose is to strength en individuals and families through a holistic approach to education and employment. The major components of this role include providing comprehensive employment and financial coaching, intensive case management and facilitating one of our Workforce’s services, including job readiness and soft skills classes. Please apply for the Workforce specialist position at: catholiccharitiesks.org/ careers/.

Caregiver needed - Looking for daytime and nighttime care for elderly male in his south Kansas City, Missouri, home. Previous experience required. Willing to consider live-in care. If interested, please phone Janell at (816) 582-4738 for additional information.

Director of marriage ministry Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Overland Park is looking for a catechetical and missionary expert who is passionate about Chris tian marriage and committed to fostering a community of love for marriage. This position and ministry will be created from the ground up. This individual must be organized, detail-oriented and have an entrepreneurial spirit. This person must be able to create a community of people at Holy Spirit and train them on how to be come missionaries themselves. This requires a solid foundation in the church’s teachings and pastoral min istry. This position must be fully engaged in the life of the parish and will require work on nights and week ends. We are looking for a self-starter and team player capable of interacting with many different groups. This is a full-time, salaried position. This position will work to build a sustainable full-circle relationship ministry for marriage. Singles: establish healthy dating habits and encourage marriage discernment. Marriage prepa ration: assess compatibility and work with mentors before and after their wedding. Marriage enrichment for married couples to continuously learn skills to strengthen their relationship. Marriages in need: work with couples to access marriage intensives to help save struggling marriages. To apply, submit cover letter, re sume and contact information for three professional references to Shaw Leach at: sleach@hscatholic.org.

Custodial technicians - Bishop Miege is seeking to hire two part-time custodial technicians for the north campus facility. One position is M - F from 7 p.m. - 1 a.m. The second position is Saturday/Sunday from 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. Contact Ryan Wrigley for more information or to apply. Email: rwrigley@bishopmiege.com or call (913) 222-5818.

Caregiver - Caregiver needed to take care of elderly mother in wheelchair in the Overland Park area some evenings and weekends. Will need to assist with light housekeeping and cooking and some transportation. Call daughter at (913) 961-3213.

Director of major and planned gifts - Come be a part of the mission of Catholic Charities as a director of ma jor and planned gifts. Drive major, monthly and planned gift strategies. Prospect, cultivate and engage major supporters of the agency. Drive initiatives to engage volunteers and supporters in all fundraising events and in all 21 counties served by the agency. Apply at: www. catholiccharitiesks.org.

Part-time aide - St. Michael the Archangel preschool in Leawood is seeking a part-time aide for our 4’s classroom for the 2022-23 school year. This position is Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Teacher aides assist the lead teacher in conducting daily activities, carrying out licensure rules and regu lations, and maintaining principles of sound Catholic education. See full job description at: stmichaelcp.org/ employment. Send cover letter and resume to the pre school director at: jennie.wente@stmichaelcp.org.

Bilingual counselor needed - The Keeler Women’s Center, located at 759 Vermont Ave., Suite 100-B, in Kansas City, Kansas, is seeking a Spanish-speaking counselor. Please contact Sister Bridget Dickason, OSB, at (913) 689-9375 or email: kwc@mountosb.org.

Part-time - Family and sacramental ministry - Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa is seeking an individual pas sionate about families and the Catholic faith. This per son will assist the director of family and sacramental ministry in sacramental preparation/catechesis and coordination of ongoing faith formation for families with children. If you have a heart for the sacraments, empowering parents and supporting families, this parttime position may be for you. Hours are flexible and may include some evenings/weekends. For more details or to submit a resume, contact: kwillis@htlenexa.org or call (913) 895-0607.

Positions available - John Paul II Preschool/Child Care is seeking self-motivated, responsible, organized and creative individuals to serve in the following positions: full-time assistant in our Montessori preschool program (M-F, 7:45 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.); part-time assistant in our preschool extended-care program (M-F, 1-6 p.m.); and part-time lead staff in our after-school program (M-F, 3-6 p.m.). We offer competitive wages based on experience and level of education. If interested, please contact Donna at: dhogue@archkckcs.org.

Marketing coordinator The Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas (CFNEK) is seeking a full-time mar keting coordinator. This position manages the CFNEK donor and fund holder marketing and communication. This includes managing social media, production of the annual report and the monthly newsletter. This position is also responsible for several events including the foun dation’s annual Deo Gratias celebration, #GiveCatholic ArchKCK and the Continuing Education Program. A col lege degree is required in communications, marketing, public relations or other related field; previous experi ence in marketing, public relations or nonprofit setting is preferred. Must be a practicing Catholic in good standing. Please visit: www.archkck.org/jobs to apply. Position open until filled.

Preschool teacher - Holy Spirit Catholic School in Overland Park is seeking a part-time preschool teacher for our 4-year-olds. The lead teacher is responsible for developing, planning and executing all activities/learn ing experiences for the children in the classroom. Re quirements: must attend Virtus training; college degree required, elementary education or special education emphasis preferred. Contact Tessa Piscitello at (913) 492-2582 or email: tpiscitello@hscatholic.org for more information.

Early childhood positions - Wonderful opportunity for adults interested in working with young children! Catholic preschool seeks caring individuals to work with children in our infant and toddler classes. Positions are full time. Great working conditions and immediate benefits! Call Ms. Theresa, director, at (913) 248-4589, or email: tgavila@stjoeshawnee.org.

Extended day care position - Holy Spirit Catholic School in Overland Park is seeking an enthusiastic person to be the group leader in our after-school care program. This well-established program runs from 3 to 5:45 p.m. each school day. We are looking for a faithfilled, responsible, organized and creative person. Ap plicants should have knowledge of child development and be able to implement age-appropriate activities. The ability to communicate clearly with children, col leagues and parents is most important in order to foster positive relationships. Applicants must attend Virtus training, ongoing child care training and be at least 18 years old. Contact Tessa Piscitello at (913) 492-2582 or email: tpiscitello@hscatholic.org for more information.

Stylists needed - Are you addicted to the TV show “Say Yes to the Dress”? Are you self-motivated, love fashion and enjoy helping people look their best? If so, we want to talk to you! Sincerely Susan, a unique destination shop boutique is a warehouse environment where clients come in by appointment only. You must have a sense of style and a great personality to be able to interact with our “moms.” Hours are flexible. Must be willing to work a minimum of one evening per week and weekends. Must be able to stand and walk on con crete for long periods of time and reach overhead to pull gowns. Previous retail experience preferred, but not necessary. Hourly rate is based on experience. If interested, call (913) 730-8840.

Custodian - The Church of Nativity Catholic Parish School has an immediate opening for a full-time hourly custodian. Qualified applicants should have prior cus todial experience, specifically in a school environment, and must be able to work 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. shift with some holiday work expected. Applicants must have compatible work history, references, dependable trans portation and be willing to participate in a background check. Compensation of $17 to $19 per hour will depend on experience, negotiable with the right qualifications. The Church of Nativity is located just west of 119th and State Line in Leawood. Nativity offers a comprehen sive benefit program including medical, dental, vision, vacation and 401(k). Interested applicants should email resumes and work history to: jobapplication@ kcnativity.org. Resumes welcome by fax or mail. No phone calls please. Fax: (913) 491-5065; mail to: Church of the Nativity, Attn: Custodial Position, 3800 W. 119th St., Leawood, KS 66209.

Drivers and aides - Assisted Transportation is now hir ing safe drivers and aides to transport students with special needs in Johnson, Wyandotte and Clay County, Missouri, in company vans. Drivers earn $14 - $16 per hour. Aides earn $12 per hour. Part-time and full-time schedules available. CDL not required. Retirees encour aged to apply. Make a difference in your community by helping those in need. Call (913) 521-4955 for more in formation. EEO

Adjunct faculty job openings - Donnelly College, Kansas City, Kansas, a Catholic college offering higher education for those who may not otherwise be served. Adjunct faculty job openings include: biology; clinical nursing, math; information systems coordinator. Find job descriptions and details at: www.donnelly.edu/ careers.

Staff job openings - Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, has the following staff job openings available: curriculum coordinator; career advising liaison; admis sion counselor, advancement officer. Find job descrip tions and details at: www.donnelly.edu/careers.

Nonmedical caregivers - Saint Rita Home Care is hiring nonmedical caregivers for seniors. Seeking com passionate individuals to fill all shifts. Call or text Renee Margush at (913) 229-4267, or rmargush@saintritahc. com. Member of Prince of Peace Parish, Olathe.

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 fulltime and part-time teachers for all ages of children. If you have an excellent work ethic, a heart for children and a will ingness 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.

Caregivers - Daughters & Company is looking for sev eral compassionate caregivers to provide assistance to seniors in their home, assisted living or in a skilled nursing facility. We provide light housekeeping/light meal preparation, organizational assistance, care man agement and occasional transportation services for our clients. We need caregivers with reliable transportation and a cellphone for communication. A CNA background is helpful, though not mandatory. We typically employ on a 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.

Instructional assistants - St. Ann is seeking both fulland part-time instructional assistants for the 2022-23 school year to help in various grade levels. Interested applicants should email principal Liz Minks at: lminks@ stannpv.org

DSPs needed - Direct care professionals needed in Overland Park in an intentional living community for adults with intellectual disabilities. Training provided. Live-in or live-out options. Weekends, evenings and overnight shifts available now. $13 - $15 per hour. Email: heartland@larcheks.org.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior re pairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Free estimates. Call (913) 579-1835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.

EL SOL Y LA TIERRA

*Commercial & residential *Lawn renovation *Mowing *Cleanup and hauling

*Dirt

*Landscapegrading/installationdesign*Freeestimates

Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!! Call Lupe at (816) 252-1391

Handyman - Home repair; skilled labor; remodeling; handyman work done in a timely manner. References available on request. Call Jeff Mauk at (913) 915-4738.

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

Gearing up for spring! We now offer financing on all your home improvement projects with approved credit. Here is a list of the construction services I offer: floor ing; tile; interior/exterior painting, as well as deck and fence staining; ceiling scraping/retexturing; bathroom, kitchen and basement remodeling; siding; decks and covered porches. We also do cabinet refinishing! Look me up on Facebook at “Father & Son Home Exteriors & Remodeling.” I work on all jobs, no subcontractors. Thank you to all my clients! (913) 709-7230.

Concrete construction - Tear out and replace stamped, stained or colored patios and drives. Retain ing walls, footings, poured-in-place safe rooms, excava tion and hauling. Asphalt drives and lots. Fully insured; references. Call Dan at (913) 207-4371 or send an email to: dandeeconst@aol.com.

Interior painting - Wall repair and painting. Serving Johnson County for 30 years. Insured. Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144.

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

SERVICES

Masonry work - Quality new or repair work. Brick, block and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; secondgeneration bricklayer. Member of St. Paul Parish, Olathe. Call (913) 271-0362.

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

Quality painting - Interior, exterior, drywall and wood rot repair. Quality workmanship. Insured. Call (913) 9387597 or (913) 206-4524; email: robaprinc@aol.com; or visit the website at: aprkansascity.com.

Garage Door Repair

New Garage Doors

A Total Door - KC family owned since ‘83. www.ATotalDoor.com or (913) 236-6440

A Total Door (913) (913)205-0926236-6440.cell

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.

Mike Hammer local moving - A full-service mover. Packing, pianos, rental truck load/unload, storage con tainer 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.

Painting - Diamond Painting, (913) 648-4933, Resi dential/Commercial, Exterior/interior, Free Estimate, Affordable, Decks, DiamondPaintKc.com, Kcmo/Over land Park Metropolitan area.

Free estimates - We are offering free estimates to all those thinking about painting this year. At Stone Paint ing , we put the customer first. We provide interior, exterior house painting along with deck staining, fence painting, etc. Stone Painting ensures a professional, clean and fair-priced job. Call today for your free esti mate. (913) 963-6465.

Catholic counseling - For individuals, couples, fam ilies, adolescents and young adults. Sam Meier, MA, LPC. Call (913) 952-2267 or book an appointment at: StillwatersKC.com, in-person or Telehealth.

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

Pressure washing: Driveways, sidewalks, patios, decks, fences and garage floors

Call John for a free estimate. Serving Johnson County KS (913) 827-8616 St. Joseph parishioner & St. James Academy graduate

Quality remodeling - Renovates kitchens and bath rooms; tile work; countertops; drywall; custom cabine try. Quality work. Call or text (913) 206-4524 or (913) 938-7597; email: robaprinc@aol.com or visit the web site at: aprkansascity.com.

CAREGIVING

Saint Rita Home Care - Compassionate care in the comfort of home. We serve people in Miami and south Johnson counties. Kansas state licensed, nonmedical home care agency. Contact us today for supportive care at: www.saintritahc.com; rmargush@saintritahc. com; (913) 229-4267; owner, member of Prince of Peace Parish, Olathe.

Private duty nursing/companion care - Are you searching for in-home care for you or your loved one? Our agency consists of experienced nurses, CNAs and caregivers who provide affordable, high quality in-home care. We take pride in providing compassionate and in dividualized care for every client. We strive to restore dignity and independence to you or your loved one’s life, while providing support to family members. We can assist with medication management, meal preparation, light housekeeping, companionship and more. Please contact Amanda for questions at (913) 499-9719.

Companion care - Part-time work for retiree. Com panion work preferred. Nursing background. Call (913) 602-1289.

Caregiver - CMA available evenings. 15 years’ experi ence. Background check and references available. Call (913) 999-4340.

Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, compan ionship, care management, and transportation for se niors in their home, assisted living or nursing facilities. We also provide respite care for main caregivers need ing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Laurie, Pat or Gary.

Hope and Healing Home Care - Hope and Healing Home Care is serving the Topeka community and nearby sur rounding areas. A variety of services offered, ranging from housekeeping and errands to skilled nursing services such as medication management and wound care. Call Most Pure Heart of Mary parishioner Shelly at (785) 207-2490 or visit: hopeandhealinghomecare.clientsecure.me for more details. It’s a privilege to serve. I’m blessed and grateful to have the privilege to serve you.

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.

WANTED TO BUY

Will buy firearms and related accessories - One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee.

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

Wanted to buy - I buy silver and gold coins. Longtime member of Curé of Ars Parish. Call Doug at (913) 998-2140.

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.

NEED HEALINGHELPFROM A PAST ABORTION?

Call or text 913-621-2199 Compassionate, Confidential, Free

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 as is never felt so good. Jon & Stacy Bichelmeyer (913) 599-5000.

WE WANT TO BUY YOUR HOUSE - There are so many new companies in town advertising to buy houses. But we’re the only ones that have been here and we’re local Holy Trinity parishioners. I will give you a fair price on any conditions you are up against. Call Mark Edmond son. (913) 980-4905.

FOR SALE

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

For sale - Double marble niche at Resurrection Cem etery in Lenexa. Tier G2; niche 436. Valued at $6185; asking $5985. Call (785) 766-2193.

For sale - Two plots at Resurrection Cemetery, Char ity Garden, plot 113, section A, spaces three and four. Valued at $2950 each; will sell for $2500 each. Call Ron at (913) 909-6415.

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.

Concrete Work

Any type of repair and new work Driveways, Walks, Patios

Member of Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish Harvey M. Kascht (913) 262-1555

John THE1bishop,Chrysostom,doctorofthechurchCor12:12-14,27-31aPs100:1b-5Lk7:11-17Sept.14EXALTATIONOFTHEHOLYCROSSNm21:4b-9Ps78:1b-2,34-38Phil2:6-11Jn3:13-17Sept.15OurLadyofSorrows1Cor15:1-11Ps118:1b-2,16ab-17,28Jn19:25-27Sept.16Cornelius,pope,andCyprian,bishop,martyrs1Cor15:12-20Ps17:1bcd,6-7,8b,15Lk8:1-3Sept.17

T he howpectpope.asteriskIsusthat’smost

people remember him . . . if they do at all. Sandwiched be tween a papacy that lasted 15 years before him and one that lasted 26 years after him, John Paul I’s papacy of merely 33 days is hardly a blip on the church’s radar.

Incredibly, I missed his whole pontificate. After finishing my first year of theology in June 1978 at the North American College in Rome, I spent the month of July ex ploring Europe. The rest of the summer — August and Sep tember — I attended an intensive language institute in Staufen im Breisgau, be(Honestly,aboutfollowed,upNaturally,PopearrivedShortlyGermany.afterI’dinStaufen,PaulVIdied.Igobbledallthenewsthatespeciallytheconclave.IlongedtobackinRometo

MARKFATHERGOLDASICH

Father

witness the election of a new pope. I mean, it doesn’t happen all that often.)Incredibly, after only 26 hours into the conclave, a new pope was elected on Aug. 26. Although I knew nothing about him, I was immediately cap tivated by his choice of a name and his gentle smile. He was the first pope to take a double name as a sign of his respect for his

predecessors: Pope John XXIII and Pope Paul VI.

I was touched by his words of expla nation for the name: “I have neither the ‘wisdom of the heart’ of Pope John, nor the preparation and culture of Pope Paul, but I am in their place. I must seek to serve the church. I hope that you will help me with your prayers.” I could hardly wait to return to Rome to get to know him better.

When the language institute ended, I spent a few days at the Jesuit residence in Munich to Oktoberfest.experienceAnoth

er seminarian was coming in from Paris to meet me there.

When he arrived the morning of Sept. 29, I was shaving in the communal bathroom of the Jesuits. He came in and said, “Did you hear the pope died?”

“Of course,” I said. “Even though I fol lowed it all in German, I know Paul VI died!”

“No, no,” he said, “I’m talking about the newAtpope!”first,I thought he was kidding but his somber expression told me otherwise. We left for Rome the next day. I recall walking past the open casket of John Paul I in front of the main altar at St. Peter’s, with Swiss Guards on duty. I at tended the funeral as well, held outside on an eerie, overcast day on Oct. 4. The weath er, as well as some screeching birds that flew over during the Mass, seem to mirror the sorrow and grief of the Overcrowd.theyears as

I’ve learned about him, I’ve grown more attached to JP I: We’re both alumni of the smileinininkindnessexpressionhappier.leavingcomeTeresa:wordsonSept.ed”wasdueservespope.”beredDavidTwain,topenned“Illustrisimi,”instory,anddiocesanularheUniversityGregorianinRome;alsowrotearegcolumninhisnewspaper;helovedagoodseenespeciallyoneofhisbooks,wherehefictionallettersfolkslikeMarkPinocchio,KingandevenJesus.Justly,he’srememas“thesmilingAndhedethislongoverrecognition.Hejustnamed“BlessbyPopeFrancison4.(Seethearticlepage3.)JPIembodiedtheseofMother“LetnoonetoyouwithoutbetterandBethelivingofGod’s—kindnessyourface,kindnessyoureyes,kindnessyoursmile.”BlessedJohnPaulI,uponus!

Robert Bellarmine, bishop, doctor of the church; Hildegard of Bingen, virgin, doctor of the church

1 Cor 15: 35-37, 42-49

Ps 56: 10c-14

Lk 8: 4-15

TWENTY-FIFTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME

Sept. TWENTY-FIFTH18SUNDAYINORDINARYTIMEAm8:4-7Ps113:1-2,4-81Tm2:1-8Lk16:1-13Sept.19

Januarius, bishop, martyr 3: 27-34 15: 2-4b, 8: Pspriest,AndrewSept.16-1820KimTae-gon,andPaulChongHa-sang,andcompanions,martyrsPrv21:1-6,10-13119:1,27,30,34-35,44Lk8:19-21Sept.21MATTHEW,APOSTLE,EVANGELISTEph4:1-7,11-13Ps19:2-5Mt9:9-13Sept.22ThursdayEccl1:2-11Ps90:3-6,12-14,17bcLk9:7-9Sept.23PiusofPietrelcina,priestEccl3:1-11Ps144:1b,2abc,3-4Lk9:18-22Sept.24SaturdayEccl11:9–12:8Ps90:3-6,12-14,17Lk9:43b-45

one of the bestknown called-byGod stories ever, Moses hears God speaking to him from a bush that is on fire and keeps on burn ing.God directs Moses to lead the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt. Moses raises objec tions and then tries to get out of the assign ment. God answers the objections, promises Moses help and sends him off to do the job.

Sunday’s first read ing describes a very different conversation between God and Moses.Moses has led the Israelites out of Egypt. God has been providing them with water and food in the extremely dry Sinai

KEVIN PERROTTA

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

wilderness. As Sun day’s incident begins, Moses has been on a mountaintop for 40 days, receiving plans

for how the Israelites are to worship God as they journey to the land he has promised them.Down below, the Israelites have gotten restless and anxious. Where is Moses? Where is God? To comfort themselves, they have made a golden statue of a bull, which they take as a sign of divine power, and have begun to worship it.

Up on the mountain, God informs Moses

of these shenanigans. Step aside, he tells Moses, so that I can vent my anger on the disloyal Israelites. I will get rid of them, God tells Moses, and start over: “I will make of you a great nation.”

An incredible offer! Moses will be a new Noah for the salvation of people, a new Abra ham, father of a great nation.Will Moses accept or Thedecline?answer hinges on a deeper question. What does Moses really want as leader of the Israelites? Who is he in leadership for?

Moses refuses God’s offer. First, he points out to God (in verses omitted from our read ing) that getting rid of the Israelites would

bring God dishonor. Second, it would vio late God’s promises to the Israelites’ ances tors.His responses to God show that, when it comes down to it, he is leading the people be cause he wants God’s glory to be revealed and he wants God’s people to experience God’s blessings. He’s not in it for himself.

From time to time, we, too, face situations — in family or work or community or church — that confront us with the question Moses had to answer for himself. Who am I trying to serve here?

Whose interests are uppermost? Is my fun damental commitment to myself or to God and other people?

Pope: Correct view of tradition nurtures beauty, grandeur of the liturgy

VATICAN CITY (CNS) —

The liturgy must be nurtured with care and never be neglected or abused, Pope Francis said.

“The liturgy is Christ’s work and the church’s, and as such, it is a living body,” he told mem bers of Italy’s Association of Professors of Liturgy.

The liturgy “is not a monu ment made of marble or bronze, it’s not a museum piece. The

liturgy is alive like a plant, and it must be nurtured with care” and never be “neglected or mistreat ed,” he said. The pope made his remarks during an audience at the Vatican Sept. 1 with members of the association, which was founded 50 years ago to promote the study and teaching of liturgy at seminaries, departments of theology and other educational institutions.

Pope Francis underlined the importance of progress being rooted in a true sense of tra dition. “Progress in the under standing of, and even in the celebration of, the liturgy must also be rooted in tradition, which always advances in the way the Lord wants,” he said. Like with a tree, growth comes from the roots — from tradition, which is “the assurance of the future.”

InMoses, like us, had to decide whose interest he should serve ,

BINGO NIGHT

Sacred Heart Parish

2646 S. 34th St., Kansas City, Kansas Sept. 10 at 7 p.m.

The Sacred Heart Knights of Columbus will be hosting bingo for cash prizes. Re freshments will be sold. For more infor mation, call Bob at (913) 850-3348.

MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR ABORTED CHILDREN

Gate of Heaven Cemetery 126th and Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kansas Sept. 10 from 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Join us at Gate of Heaven Cemetery for a solemn vigil to commemorate the more than 60 million children who have lost their lives to legal abortion since 1973 and to remind our society of the humanity of the unborn child. For more information, contact Tina at (785) 615-8373 by voice or text.

ANNUAL PICNIC Annunciation Parish Cigna Center 402 N. Maple, Frankfort Sept. 10 from 4- 7 p.m.

There will be a roast beef dinner with all the trimmings. The cost is $14 for adults and $6 for kids ages 5 - 10. There will also be a beer garden, live music, kids games, bounce house, adult games (bin go, cornhole) and a raffle with tickets for a quilt and other prizes.

CALLED TO LOVE AGAIN Church of the Ascension 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park Sept. 10 at 6:30 p.m.

Divorced? Feel alone? Need support? Join us for fellowship, formation and fun. The speaker, Father Gary Pennings, will speak about annulments in the St. Luke Room. For more information, send an email to: calledtolove143@gmail.com.

ROSARY RALLY IN HONOR OF OUR LADY OF FATIMA

Christ the King Parish

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

Sept. 11 from 3 - 4:15 p.m.

We will pray the joyful, sorrowful and glorious mysteries of the rosary. Benedic tion will follow, as well as an opportunity for attendees to enroll in the brown scap ular. For more information, visit the web site at: www.rosaryrallieskc.org.

FINISH FAITHFUL CONFERENCE

St. Benedict School (common area) 201 Unity St., Atchison

Sept. 17 from 9:15 a.m. - 1 p.m.

There will be five speakers giving talks on preplanning for your legacy and preparing for end of life. The topics are: “Suffering and finishing faithful”; “Ad vance health care directives”; “Your special-needs child and protecting their interest”; “Wills and trusts”; and “Lit urgy options for planning your funer al and burial.” RSVP online to: archkck. org/finishfaithful-registration or call Terri Lynn in the office of stewardship and de velopment at (913) 647-0365.

BEREAVEMENT MEETING

Curé of Ars Parish (Father Burak Room) 9405 Mission Rd., Leawood

Sept. 17 at 8:30 a.m.

The bereavement ministry will have a grief support meeting after the 8 a.m. Mass. The topic will be: “Tears and Laugh ter during Grief.” For more information, call (913) 649-2026.

FUNDRAISER AUCTION

St. Patrick Parish

16464 S. Scranton Rd., Scranton

Sept. 17 from 10 a.m.

The auction is made possible by dona

tions from the estates of Mary Schmidt and Larry McCormick. All of the proceeds go to the new church hall. There will also be a tent sale with lots of miscellaneous items for sale. A lunch of sloppy Joes, hot dogs, pie, chips and a drink will be avail able for purchase.

COMMUNITY COURTYARD SALE

Strawberry Hill Museum

720 N. 4th St., Kansas City, Kansas Sept. 17 from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Drop-off times are Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Aug. 28, 30 and 31, and Sept. 4, 6, 11, 13 and 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. We do not accept TVs, workout equipment or clothes. Make some cash. For $15, you can have your own 12-by-12-foot space to share your own “treasures.” Bring your table, chairs, pop-up tent and have some fun. Reserve your spot online at: www. strawberryhillmuseum.org.

ICE CREAM SOCIAL

St. Patrick Parish

1086 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kansas Sept. 17 from 5 - 9 p.m.

Join us after the 4 p.m. Mass for an ice cream social. There will be great food, games and entertainment. All are welcome.

FAMILY DAY AT PRAIRIE STAR RANCH Prairie Star Ranch

1124 California Rd., Williamsburg Sept. 18 from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Join us at Prairie Star Ranch for an opportunity to slow down and enter into a day of prayer, adventure and outdoor activities. Activities include horseback riding, canoing, archery, power pole and other activities. Mass in the St. Kateri Chapel will be the culmination of the day. All are invited to this come-andgo-as-you-please event. To register, go online to: www.archkck.org/ranch; call (785) 746-5693; or go to the website at: psrministry@archkck.org.

FALL & HOLIDAY CRAFT & BAKE SALE

501 S. Willow Dr., Olathe

Sept. 22, 23 and 24 from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Oct. 12, 14 & 15 from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

The proceeds from the sales will be donated to the Olathe Pregnancy Clinic. Cash and checks only will be accepted.

HAYDEN HIGH REUNION

Class of 1972 Sept. 23 - 25

Classmates can request information by sending an email to: hydenhs1972 reunion@gmail.com or by calling (785) 230-0143.

SLOVENEFEST

Holy Family Parish

513 Ohio, Kansas City, Kansas

Sept. 24 at 4 p.m.

Mass will be at 4 p.m. and the cele bration will be from 5 - 10 p.m. We will be celebrating over 100 years of Slove nian heritage. There will be a traditional Slovenian dinner, music, and family and children’s activities. There will also be a cultural booth, souvenirs and a me ga-raffle. Music will be provided by The Brian McCarty Band and Hrvatski Obicaj. For more information, go online to: www. holyfamilychurchkck.org.

ANNUAL BAZAAR

St. John the Baptist Parish 427 S. Prairie, Greeley Sept. 25 from 10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Meals will be dine-in and takeout. The cost for adults is $14 and for kids under the age of 6, $6. Turkey and dressing, chicken and homemade noodles, ham and mashed potatoes and gravy, and sides will be served. Handicap accessible.

PANCAKE BREAKFAST

St. Patrick Parish 1086 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kansas Sept. 25 from 8 - 11 a.m.

All are welcome. The cost is a freewill offering. There will be great food and great fellowship. It is sponsored by the Bicentennial Knights of Columbus Coun cil 6781.

CATHOLIC WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY

Holy Trinity Parish (Father Quigley Center) 13615 W. 92nd St., Lenexa Sept. 29, 2022 - April 20, 2023

From 9:30 - 11 a.m.

Join us for this Catholic Women’s Bi ble Study. We will be explore Philippians and James. To register, go the website at: Womensbiblestudykc.com. Register by Aug. 29 to ensure that your study books are available the first day. For more infor mation, contact Theresa Gordzica at (785) 843-0283 or Jenny Kropf at (913) 2198528 or send an email to: womensbible studykc@gmail.com. Lap babies and teens are welcome to come. Call Jenny Kropf at the number above to see if there is more room in the Catechesis of the Good Shep herd program for kids ages 1 - 12.

GOLF OUTING

Heritage Park Golf Course 16455 S. Lackman Rd., Olathe Sept. 30 at 9 a.m.

Holy Spirit Knights invite you to join our golf outing. There will be a fourperson scramble, shotgun start. Knights and non-Knights are welcome and you are encouraged to bring your own four some. Green fees, cart and two beverage tickets — along with prizes for long drive, long putt and closest to the pin — are in cluded in your low price of $55 per golf er. Call Greg Davis at (913) 800-0581 to register or Everett Fritz at (913) 967-9209 to discuss hole sponsorship opportunities for your business.

ANNUAL ICE CREAM SOCIAL

Holy Name of Jesus Parish 1001 Southwest Blvd., Kansas City, Kansas Oct. 1 from 5 - 11 p.m.

Come join the “Together Again on the Boulevard” celebration. There will be a taco dinner, bingo and a live band, as well as ice cream.

ST. JOSEPH HIGH SCHOOL REUNION Class of 1972

The Silo Modern Farmhouse 17501 W. 87th St., Lenexa Oct. 1 from 7 p.m. - midnight

For more info, visit the web site at: person.atevansa1@bellsouth.netan640138040356584.www.facebook.com/groups/Questions?SendmailtoAnnette(Mirocke)Evansat:orcallTimRafferty(913)645-3896.Thecostis$40perRSVPbySept.15.

PANCAKE LUNCHEON

St. Mary Parish 446 Hwy. 137, Purcell Oct. 2 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Join us for pancakes, whole hog sau sage, scrambled eggs, homemade pie and tea or coffee. The cost is a freewill offering.

RED MASS Curé of Ars Parish 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood Oct. 7 at 6:30 p.m.

The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kan sas and the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Jo seph, will host the annual Red Mass. A re ception will follow. RSVP online at: cfnek. org/events/red-mass. The event is free.

CHICKEN DINNER AND BINGO

St. Patrick Parish

1086 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kansas Oct. 8 at 6 p.m.

Dinner will include chicken, mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, salad, roll, dessert and drink. The cost for adults is $10 and kids meals cost $5. If you have more than two kids, take advantage of the family meal (two adults and more than two kids) for $30. Bingo is $10 for 10 games. Questions? Call Fritz Vertz at (913) 515-0621. The event is sponsored by the Green Club.

TURKEY DINNER AND BAZAAR

Sacred Heart Parish

1100 West St., Tonganoxie Oct. 9 from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

The cost for dinner is: $12 for adults; $7 for kids ages 6 - 12; and free for kids ages 5 and under. There will be a turkey dinner, a country store, bingo and chil dren’s games. There will also be a raffle with prizes totaling over $2100.

RETROUVAILLE

Savior Pastoral Center

12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kansas Oct. 14 - 16

Is your marriage struggling or do you know a marriage that is struggling? Re trouvaille is a program that helps cou ples restore their marriage and rebuild a loving relationship. This is a practical program to improve communication and help couples connect. Sign up online at: www.helpourmarriage.org or call 1 (800) 470-2230.

PRO-LIFE EVENT

Sheraton Hotel at the Convention Center

6100 College Blvd., Overland Park Oct. 21 from 7 - 9 p.m.

Kirk Cameron, known as Mike Seaver from the television show “Growing Pains,” will be the speaker. His newest film feature is about the value of life in the womb and the beauty of adoption.

His film “Lifemark” is set to hit theaters in September. He and his wife Chelsea have been married for 31 years and have six children. All proceeds benefit the Vitae Foundation. Dinner and the program cost $100 per person ($70 is tax deductible). To register, go online to: vitaefoundation. org or call (573) 634-4316.

CRAFT SHOW AND BAKE SALE

Holy Family Parish

820 Birch St., Eudora

Oct. 22 from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Oct. 23 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Looking for unique, one-of-a-kind craft items? Find that special item as well as delicious treats. Proceeds from the sale will go to support the parish’s peace, jus tice and human development programs. Crafters interested in more information or renting a booth space should contact Linda by calling (913) 645-5386 or Mel anie by email at: 19dobbins83@gmail. com.

SERVING SISTERS

Religious Sisters Appreciation Day honors nuns’ contributions

By Dean Backes Special to The Leaven

KANSAS

CITY, Kan. — In what was a role reversal of sorts, all six Serra clubs of Kansas City hosted 18 con gregations and 115 nuns to three hours of bingo, prayer and reflec tion, a barbecue dinner and song at the Religious Sisters Appreciation Day at St. Patrick Church here on Aug 28.

For just a few hours that weekend, those that serve others were served themselves.“Ijustappreciate the opportuni ty to be appreciated by our Serrans,” said Sister Stephen Patrick Joly of the Dominican Sisters of Mary Mother of the Eucharist in Independence, Mis souri. “They do so much to support us throughout the year, and to be able to come out and have an afternoon to gether with all of these different Sis ters is beautiful because it renews us in our“Imission.thinkit means a lot to [the Ser rans] to be able to serve us for an af ternoon and for us just to be able to receive

Openthat.”toall religious Sisters in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph, as well as Serrans and guests, the event was kicked off by former ap preciation day organizer Gene Schrein er and St. Patrick pastor Father Mark Mertes in welcoming remarks.

A rousing game of bingo called by Serran Ken Corsini followed, and then Bishop James Johnston of the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph and Arch bishop Joseph F. Naumann of the Arch diocese of Kansas City in Kansas led all in prayer.Thebuffet-style dinner was served by Fiorella’s Jack Stack Barbecue and the Sisters themselves closed out the festivities by singing a beautiful rendi tion of “Salve Regina.”

Shortly after joining the Serrans in 1995, Jim Conrad was asked to take over what was then called “A Sisters’ Picnic,” which was held outside at Pierson Park in Kansas City, Kansas. Activities back then included bingo, fishing, softball, badminton, volleyball and a nail-driving competition created by Conrad himself!

The Sisters came together and en joyed a packaged picnic lunch and participated in the activities of their choosing, or just sat and visited among themselves during those early years. The festivities moved indoors about 20 years ago to combat the heat, and bingo was the only activity that survived.

After moving indoors, the apprecia tion day bounced to different parishes before settling in at St. Patrick about five years ago.

“The joy for me was seeing the

different orders,” Conrad said of the appreciation day. “Seeing the differ ent orders come together . . . it was just a joy to be there and see them having a good time. At this function, they got to let their hair down and be realWhilepeople.”theSisters all enjoy bingo and the barbecue, a huge draw on the day is the fellowship and sharing they en counter while visiting with each other and other attendees throughout the af ternoon.“Ienjoy having the time to chat with all of the people,” Sister Stephen Patrick said of her favorite part of the day. “Over the course of the day, dif ferent people come to us just as we’re interacting with each other, or during bingo, or during dinner. I think meet ing the different Sisters and being able to share what we do is an exciting part of the Sisterday.”Maritza

Arce of the Sis ters, Servants of Mary in Kansas City, Kansas, said she enjoys visiting with her counterparts as well.

“I met some of the Sisters that stayed with us in our convent last year,” Sister Maritza recalled. “So, it was nice to catch up with them. We talked with the Dominican Sisters about the lack of vo cations and what we’re doing and not doing about it.”

Sister Rose Manjula Allam of the Sisters of St. Anne in Olathe said they

set aside the time to attend the appre ciation day activities each year because they don’t want to miss the day.

“It’s very exciting and a privilege for us to be able to share our experiences

with one another, which enriches us in our mission,” Sister Rose said. “It helps us to be strong in our faith and in our mission.”

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

From left, Sisters Supriya Dalu, Sunitha Thappetta and Aruna Prakash Boyarevula, all Sisters of St. Anne, visit with Msgr. Michael Mullen, at Religious Sisters Appreciation Day on Aug. 28 at St. Patrick Church in Kansas City, Kansas.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

From left, Sisters Gabrielle Smits, Ann Landers and Fran Volvedich, all Sisters of St. Joseph of Caron delet, enjoy their time at Religious Sisters Appreciation Day.