09-14-12 Vol. 34 No. 6 by The Leaven

www.theleaven.com | Newspaper of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas | Vol. 34, No. 6 september 14, 2012

Mother Teresa of Calcutta parishioner Jean Walter, left, looks over Mother Teresa’s canned goods during an outing with her sister Sylvia Nordhus.

Mother Teresa of Calcutta parishioner Alita Kennedy, a regular at the Mother Teresa’s Garden Market, inspects a fresh crop of onions.

Garden of Eatin’ Parish paradise yields food for the poor and fellowship for the faithful Story and photos by Jill Ragar Esfeld

opeka — When Shirley Mitchell recently lamented the absence of homegrown tomatoes at a chain grocery store in Topeka, a fellow shopper proffered her a mysterious tip. “Mother Teresa has them,” she said. Fortunately, Mitchell, a parishioner of St. Stanislaus in Rossville, soon recalled seeing a road sign advertising Mother Teresa’s Gar-

den. And she was intrigued. The following Saturday, she ventured forth. And there, to her delight, she found far more than fresh tomatoes.

More than tomatoes At this amazing little market, on the grounds of Mother Teresa of Calcutta Parish, a community has grown up around the business of selling produce. People talk and laugh as they inspect the myriad of vegetables, fruits and canned goods. Be a Part of Mother They sip cups of fresh coffee and share homeTeresa’s Garden made pastries. Mother Teresa’s Garden “Last Saturday, we made would love to expand, but bacon, lettuce and tomato needs more volunteers and sandwiches,” said Dale is interested in getting other Strathman, who’s been the local parishes involved. driving force behind the Contact Dale Strathman market since it began four for more information at (785) years ago. 286-2879. Committed to helping the poor with profits, as its namesake would wish, Mother Teresa’s Garden sold enough produce during its first year to make a $1,500 donation to Topeka Rescue Mission. “We were really grateful for what we got that first year,” said Strathman’s wife Vera, the market’s cashier and accountant. “We never dreamed we’d get very much more.” But the following year they raised $4,000; the year after that, $8,000. And this year, during the hottest, driest summer on record in See “garden” on page 6

Dale Strathman, who is the driving force behind Mother Teresa’s Garden, packs up bushels of corn to be sold at the farmers’ market.

2 local news

THE LEAVEN • SEPTEMBER 14, 2012

THE LEAVEN • September 14, 2012

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS

Coach is compelling example of faith in action

ecently, I had the opportunity to hear Coach Lou Holtz speak at the convocation at Benedictine College inaugurating the beginning of a new academic year.

Lou Holtz is renowned for being one of the nation’s most successful college football coaches. He led Notre Dame to a national championship and took six different college teams to post-season bowl games. After retiring from coaching, he became a highly sought-after motivational speaker. During the football season, Coach Holtz serves as a college football analyst for ESPN. Lou Holtz does not present himself as an intellectual. With his engaging, self-deprecating humor, he discounts the significant accomplishment of authoring three books by claiming to be one of the few people who has written more books than he has read. Coach Holtz’s uncomplicated approach to life has been a key ingredient to his extraordinary success both on and off the football field. His message to the students was a summary of his philosophy for life: 1) Do the right thing. 2) Be passionate about what you do, always striving for excellence. 3) Care about people. In this apparently simple formula for life, there is something quite profound. Though Lou Holtz never used the term, his first principle is an argument for natural law. In order to “do the right thing,” one must be able to know what the “right thing” is. Coach Holtz’s first principle presumes moral truths that are engraved upon the human heart that allow us to know, in any given situation, what is “right” as well as what is “wrong.” Of course, this principle strikes at the heart of the relativism pervading our more and more secularized culture so prevalent on many college campuses. Relativism questions the very existence

of truth. In essence, it claims that what might be “right” or “true” for you is not necessarily “right” or “true” for me. It is this philosophy of secular relativism that is responsible for the moral chaos in our society. As an important corollary to his first principle, Lou Holtz emphasizes that to be successful in life one has to be trustworthy. Coach Holtz noted that success on the athletic field is contingent on team members trusting one another and their coaches. In order to win the trust of others, one must consistently do the right thing. Coach Holtz has a great affection for Benedictine College. He loves the way in which the college promotes the importance of both faith and reason. He respects how Benedictine College strives to provide students not just with a great academic education, but also fosters the development of virtue. After giving the commencement address at Benedictine a few years ago, Coach Holtz made a donation to help build the Marian grotto that is located in the heart of the campus. A few days after the convocation at Benedictine, I heard Coach Holtz as a guest on the Catholic radio program “Blessed 2 Play.” In the interview, Coach Holtz expressed the importance of his Catholic faith as evidenced by his frequent participation in daily Mass. After being offered the head coaching position at the University of Minnesota, Coach Holtz said he was uncertain about what he should do. He called a family meeting, discussing the pros and cons of accepting the position with his wife and children. After discussing the matter for some time, he was even more confused about what to do. Lou asked each member of the family to go to a different place in their

home and to pray for 30 minutes, asking the Lord to guide them in making this important decision for their family. Upon reassembling the family, Coach Holtz said that it was clear that he should accept the job in Minnesota, and the entire family was at peace with this decision. When he was asked what he considered his greatest achievement, Coach Holtz said that it was not winning the national championship nor taking so many different college football programs to bowl games. It was not his success as a public speaker nor his career on television as an ESPN analyst. Lou Holtz views his greatest success to be his happy marriage of more than 50 years. He considers his greatest achievement to be his relationship with his wife and children. What pleased him most — and what he considered his greatest accomplishment — was the joy of their family life. What a wonderful example Coach Holtz provides of a Catholic man living out his faith as a husband, a father, a football coach, a public speaker and a television commentator! As we launch, in the Archdiocese this weekend, the initiative — “Faith: Love It, Learn It, Live It” — a brief DVD will be played in our parishes highlighting the testimonies of a few individuals expressing the importance of their Catholic faith in the unique circumstances of their lives. I pray that the Year of Faith will be the occasion for each of us to open our hearts to experience the love of Jesus in a fresh and powerful way. I hope this year will be a time for each of us to deepen our love for Jesus and his church. Our Catholic faith holds the key for all of us to experience the abundant life and complete joy that Jesus promises to his disciples. Our Catholic faith helps us to recognize the right thing. Nourished and strengthened by prayer and the sacraments, we find the power not just to know the right thing, but to do the right thing in the everyday circumstances of our lives.

SECOND FRONT PAGE 3

Archbishop Naumann’s weekly calendar

Sept. 14 Young Adult Catechesis — Benedictine College, Atchison Sept. 15 Profession of vows — Sisters, Servants of Mary Wedding — Holy Spirit, Overland Park Sept. 16 Mass of Innocents — Savior Pastoral Center

Perry parish finally dedicates ‘hall of their dreams’

100th anniversary — Sacred Heart, Emporia Sept. 17 Catholic Education Foundation luncheon Priest Appreciation Day Sept. 18 Presbyteral Council meeting Sept. 19 Santa Marta board meeting Sept. 20 Catholic Education Foundation board meeting Sept. 21-24 Knights of the Holy Sepulcher meeting — Lake of the Ozarks, Mo.

Archbishop Keleher’s weekly calendar

Sept. 15 Mass and banquet — Lansing State Prison Sept. 16 Baptism — federal prison Sept. 17 Priest Appreciation Day Sept. 17-18 Labor Review Board — Chicago Sept. 20 Teach class — Mundelein Seminary

Leaven photo by Joe Bollig

Despite a desperate need for a new parish hall, for a while it seemed that the cost would be too high. Thanks to a last minute bid that came in much lower than the other’s, the dream of the new hall finally came to fruition.

By Joe Bollig

Leaven staff

ERRY — They were so very close, but it wasn’t enough. Members of St. Theresa Parish in Perry had long dreamed of building a new parish hall and catechetical center. They held innumerable fundraisers and painstakingly grew their building fund. But then the bids came in. “We got three bids, and they were pretty high,” said Norbert Otter, chairman of the parish building committee. The bids were so high they threatened to stall the project. The memory still brings tears to the eyes of parish director of religious education Janette Adams. “We didn’t think we were going to get it,” said Adams. “I went home and told my dad. I said, ‘Dad, we’re not going to get a new parish hall. We’re not going to get religious education classrooms, because there’s not enough money and our parish isn’t big enough.’” It was tough running a religious education program at St. Theresa. Students and teachers settled into whatever space they could find. The teachers lugged their books and instructional materials back and forth from their homes, because they couldn’t store them at the parish. Everyone keenly felt the need for a new hall. The small fellowship hall in the church basement had a ramp, but the bathrooms weren’t handicapped accessible. “My dad, bless his little soul, helped me out,” said Adams. Keith Adams knew just who could help St. Theresa Parish: Mennonites. He gathered some information and made a call. Two days before Otter and then-pastor Father Tom Aduri were to meet with archdiocesan officials to consider other options, they got a call from Mervin Graber, of the family-owed Graber Construction Company of Oskaloosa. Graber is also a deacon of the Ebenezer Amish Mennonite Church of Oskaloosa. “I’ve got a bid for your hall,” Graber told them. They met 15 minutes later. Graber offered them a bid $100,000 less than the three others St. Theresa had been offered. Father Aduri and Otter asked why his

Leaven photo by Joe Bollig

Father Marreddy Yeruva, pastor of St. Theresa Parish in Perry, assists Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann in a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially open St. Theresa’s new hall on Sept. 9. bid was so much lower than the others. “We’re here to help our fellow Christians,” said Graber. The parish broke ground on the new hall on Oct. 16, 2011. At 6:30 a.m. the next day, Father Aduri’s early morning coffee was disturbed by the sounds of chain saws and backhoes from Graber’s Mennonite work crew. “Everybody went about their work,” said Otter. “They knew what they were supposed to do. There wasn’t a lot of chitchat, and there wasn’t any of the [rough] language you usually hear at a construction site. It was impressive.” All the hard work and fundraising — with help from Mennonite angels — paid off when Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann cut the ribbon and blessed the new parish hall on Sept. 9. The archbishop was the main celebrant and homilist at the dedication Mass. The concelebrants were pastor Father Marreddy Yeruva, and former pastors Father Francis Hund, now at Church of the Nativity in Leawood, and Father Bob Hasenkamp, now retired and living in Lecompton.

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)

Editor Reverend Mark Goldasich, stl frmark@theleaven.com

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe@theleaven.com

President Most Reverend Joseph F. Naumann

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita@theleaven.com

Reporter Jessica Langdon jessica@theleaven.com

“Praise to God for the beautiful people of St. Theresa’s,” said Father Yeruva. “I would like to thank Archbishop Joseph Naumann for allowing us to have this nice parish center.” Archbishop Naumann praised Father Yeruva for seeing the project to completion, former pastors for their efforts, and St. Theresa parishioners for all their hard work and planning. “We started about 15 years ago,” said Betty Grollmes, chairwoman of the parish finance committee. “We [raised funds] little by little, and this past year we had a capital campaign.” “Once the decision was made to go ahead, it seemed like the Holy Spirit took over,” Grollmes continued. “We found a contractor who met our needs financially and we still got the building of our dreams. We had support from our community and outside the parish — people who donated time and resources. So many things came out of the goodness of people’s hearts.” Following the Mass, an honor guard of fourth-degree Knights of Columbus led Archbishop Naumann, the three

Production Manager & Acting Advertising Coordinator Todd Habiger todd@theleaven.com

St. Theresa Parish Center • Total cost construction and furnishings: approximately $500,000 • General Contractor: Graber Construction Company, Oskaloosa • Architect: Ann McGarity • Square feet: 7,800 • Capacity main hall: 170-200 people • Construction: Composite shingle roof; front brick veneer and stucco sides; covered porch. • Interior: Two offices, vestibule, two restrooms, six classrooms, mechanical room, storage and kitchen.

priests, and parishioners to the doors of the new building. After Archbishop Naumann blessed the building and handed the keys to Father Yeruva, he entered the new hall and blessed all the rooms. A dinner was held in the new hall immediately following the blessing.

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

4 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • september 14, 2012

THE LEAVEN • SEPTEMBER 14, 2012

Kansas native finds open arms in rural Kenya visiting American. “Her mom asked me how I was enjoying Kenya, and I told her that it was going great and I loved the food,” said Katherine. “She said if I could have stayed longer, she would have cooked me chapati (a kind of flatbread).” Katherine delivered gifts to Lynn, Betty and Rosemary, including art supplies so Lynn can “spice up” her pencil animal drawings. At the end of the afternoon, they traveled on piki-pikis — motorcycle taxis — and Lynn, despite her shyness, asked her mom if she could ride with Katherine. “I don’t know how many times [Rosemary] expressed her appreciation and thanks and how much it meant to her and how much she thought about me and prayed for me,” Katherine said. The contribution isn’t a tremendous amount for the average American, she said. For a child in another part of the world, though, “it’s the difference between barely existing and having a decent chance at a great life,” said Linda.

By Jessica Langdon Leaven staff

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Katherine Meinig thought she knew a lot about Lynn, the seven-year-old girl she sponsors in Kenya. But even frequent letters and pictures pale in comparison to actually stepping into someone else’s world. Thanks to a study abroad opportunity, Katherine, a 22-year-old native of Paola, had the chance to meet Lynn this summer in Kenya. There, she saw just how much of a difference her sponsorship through the Christian Foundation for Children and Aging makes in a child’s life. Katherine, now starting her final semester at Iowa State University in Ames, first learned Lynn’s story in 2008 while she was still in high school. The girl’s picture caught her eye at her parish of Holy Trinity in Paola. Lynn’s packet was one of many on the table; each represented a child in need of hope and help in the midst of poverty. “Why not?” Katherine figured. She could afford $1 a day. So she made the financial arrangements, and soon began writing to Lynn’s family. Lynn’s mother Rosemary and older sister Betty send her letters. And Lynn? “She always draws pictures and labels them in English since she started her English in school,” Katherine said.

‘Why not?’ Katherine, who is in the U.S. Air Force ROTC program studying meteorology at Iowa State, had grown increasingly interested in visiting Africa. So she applied last fall for Project GO, a language and culture immersion initiative through the U.S. Department of Defense. Many seniors relax during their final college summer, but Katherine looked at the chance to travel and again said, “Why not?” Even before she was accepted, she wrote to Lynn’s family about the opportunity. They were excited she might learn Swahili — their native language — and maybe even visit. During one whirlwind week this spring, she learned what her job for the Air Force would be, which base she would go to — and that she was chosen for the Kenya trip through James Madi-

Making connections

Katherine Meinig, right, meets Lynn, the seven-year-old girl she sponsors through the Christian Foundation for Children and Aging. Lynn lives in Kenya with her mother Rosemary and older sister Betty. Katherine’s family in Paola has sponsored children through CFCA for years. Katherine and Lynn’s family write back and forth, and Katherine, who is in the U.S. Air Force ROTC program at Iowa State University, worked with CFCA to meet Lynn and her family during a study abroad trip to Kenya this summer. son University in Virginia. “It was at that moment that I just really felt truly blessed for all the opportunities I’ve been given in my life,” she said.

Plans in place Katherine’s first stop was James Madison University for intensive Swahili training with a teacher from Kenya. But she soon started wondering whether she could meet the child she sponsors while in Kenya. When she saw Lynn’s hometown on the trip’s itinerary, she emailed her professor to see if she could fit in an extra stop. Then, when the plans started coming together, Katherine had only her mother’s worries to allay. But it wasn’t hard for Katherine to

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convince Linda Meinig this was meant to be. “When [Katherine] found out they were going to be in her little girl’s village, she just said, ‘Is this a good enough sign from God?’” said Linda.

Important visitor Even though Katherine’s trip didn’t coincide with one of the regular CFCA sponsor trips to Kenya, CFCA facilitated the meeting. It took place the day Katherine’s group visited Lake Nakuru, a national park near Lynn’s home. Katherine’s visit was so important to Lynn and her family that Lynn and Betty were allowed to stay home from school. Neighbor children peered inside the family’s home to catch a glimpse of the

Katherine’s Project GO work involved following up on the construction of sand dams, which enabled community groups to capture water. Their efforts were life-changing for the people of Kenya, since some walk five hours simply to get water, with no guarantee of it being clean. Visiting with the locals about life before and after the sand dams, Katherine also answered questions about America, dispelling ideas that America is all skyscrapers and Hollywood. She shared her own experience on her family’s Kansas farm — operated by her dad Jim Meinig and her grandfather — and how they experience many of the same problems, including droughts like this summer’s. Sitting at a campfire with Mount Kilimanjaro in the background, Katherine even decided on her senior thesis topic — combining her loves of meteorology and Africa to study what caused a horrible drought that plagued East Africa from 2007 to 2009. She doesn’t know when, but she knows she will one day return to Kenya. And when she does, she will visit Lynn . . . and Rosemary promises to make chapati.

MASS OF INNOCENTS Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann invites you to join him in a Mass of Remembrance for all who have experienced the loss of a child thru miscarriage or other before-birth losses, through stillbirth, or in early childhood death.

Sunday, September 16, 2012 10 a.m. Savior Pastoral Center 12601 Parallel Pkwy Kansas City, Kansas 66109 For directions or more information please call: Archdiocesan Marriage & Family Life Office (913) 721-1570 flifesec@archkck.org

LOCAL NEWS 5

Mary’s Choices provides new look at life By Jessica Langdon Leaven staff

TOPEKA — To many growing families, the phrase “3-D ultrasound” conjures images of an exciting sneak peek at the developing baby’s features. The same technology can be especially powerful for someone considering abortion. The 3-D sonograms offered inside the newly opened Mary’s Choices pregnancy center in Topeka are meant to help women and families facing unplanned pregnancies choose life. “I think that they’ll be amazed by what they see, and it will make the baby a real thing to them — to see a heartbeat and see somebody already moving,” said Dr. Melissa Colbern, a physician in Topeka and member of Mother Teresa of Calcutta Parish. “There’s just a real awe factor when a mom sees the baby,” said Colbern, who has witnessed that in her own practice over the years. She hopes the sonograms, along with other resources, will make a difference to abortion-minded women who turn to Mary’s Choices. “I think it’s a really powerful tool that we have,” she said. Along with then-Mother Teresa of Calcutta pastor Father William Bruning — now pastor at Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe — and many others, Colbern worked countless hours over the past year to bring to life this new center. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann toured and blessed Mary’s Choices on Sept. 8, and the nonprofit limited medical facility at 306 S.W. Van Buren officially opened on Sept. 10. “Let us ask for God’s blessing on all those who will be served by this center dedicated to assisting women who are pregnant and their families, and all who will serve them as the staff and benefactors of this pregnancy assistance facility,” said Archbishop Naumann in his blessing. “As we call God’s blessing upon this facility and its staff, we also will ask God to bless the sonogram machine, which will be instrumental in assisting expectant mothers to rejoice in the gift of the life of their child.” Colbern offered thanks for the financial donations and hours upon hours of work and prayer. Parishes in and around Topeka, as well as schools, organizations and individuals, have donated time and money.

Leaven photo by Elaina Cochran

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann blesses the newly opened Mary’s Choices pregnancy center in Topeka. The 3-D sonograms offered inside the center are meant to help women and families facing unplanned pregnancies choose life.

“As we call God’s blessing upon this facility and its staff, we also will ask God to bless the sonogram machine, which will be instrumental in assisting expectant mothers to rejoice in the gift of the life of their child.”

”

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann Many collected donations in plastic baby bottles to go toward the sonogram machine and other needs. In June, 26 people from Mother Teresa of Calcutta Parish spent four hours at Mary’s Choices and “just did a remarkable job at cleaning,” said Colbern. The Knights of Columbus had al-

ready painted the facility. Five women — all volunteers — staff Mary’s Choices. Medical services include pregnancy testing, limited ultrasound, confidential counseling and referrals for prenatal care. Referrals are also offered to address a number of other needs and issues, including medical insurance coverage, social services, adoption, post-abortion counseling and domestic abuse. And the clinic extends a helping hand to families even after a baby has arrived, and to women not even considering abortion but with extenuating circumstances. “We’re going to help these women until the babies are two,” said Colbern. “If the baby’s already here but they’re having a rough time of it, we can get them into services that can help them.” The center is located on the site of the former convent of St. Joseph Parish, and the chapel was named in honor of Father Bruning.

How to help Mary’s Choices accepts financial donations, which may be mailed to: Mary’s Choices P.O. Box 8689 Topeka KS 66608 The facility will also accept donations of new items to help mothers and babies. For a list of needed items (or for more information about Mary’s Choices), visit the website at: www. marysbabies.com. Baby supplies and items for pregnant mothers may be taken to the facility at 306 S.W. Van Buren in Topeka during office hours. To contact Mary’s Choices, send an email to: info@maryschoices. com.

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6 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • september 14, 2012

Garden is prophetic and profitable

“He’s been a tremendous help by using soaker hoses when we’re not available during the day,” said Strathman. “And he’ll move them from garden to garden.”

“And an important part of it is socializing.” “That’s because we’re not just trying to sell a product,” said Strathman. “We’re trying to build community.” “The parishioners know their mission statement and the pillars of their parish are formation, prayer, hospitality, service,” said Father Bruning. “The hospitality? They take that seriously. “It’s like a little family down there.” “Father Bill [Bruning] used to come on a regular basis,” said Strathman. “And Father Tom [Aduri] — now that he is pastor of our parish — when he’s in town, he’s been there every week. “So customers actually also see the pastor, the leader of our parish, intermixing with the crowd and welcoming them.” And this little family is as interested in spreading the word of God as it is in marketing fresh produce. “That’s another key element of the market — evangelization,” said Strathman. “If we can get one person to come back who has left the faith, Mother Teresa would be so happy. “She’ll be smiling.”

First fruits

Shared riches

The produce market opens in midJune, and the group joins forces to harvest, store and deliver produce from its seven gardens. The newest member, Ed Warner, has been surprised and delighted with the experience. “It’s probably one of the better things I’ve done,” he said. “It’s one of these deals where your doctor says, ‘You’ve got a garden. That’s good!’ “Now I’ve got seven times as much exercise.” Picnic tables fill the pavilion where the market is open, and each is overflowing with fresh produce, as well as baked and canned goods donated by parishioners. Holthaus and Appelhanz have chickens and provide eggs for the market. “And Dwayne and Sue Cramer do a tremendous amount of canning,” said Strathman. “This year, they brought probably 300 jars of canned goods — jellies, pickles, Bloody Mary mix, all kinds of different items.” Parishioner Delores Solis also loves to can and brings a case of salsa to the market each week. Volunteers who aren’t so handy in the field, work the market. “They like to socialize,” said Warner.

Anything left at the end of Saturday’s market is delivered to Topeka Rescue Mission. “I wish everyone could experience the delivery of that produce,” said Strathman. “They recognize my truck whenever I come. They’ll come out and help me unload. “And numerous times someone will say, ‘Do you mind if I take a cucumber?’ And they’ll just wipe it off and start eating it right there.” The market usually runs through the parish jamboree celebration in September, when all the profits are presented to the mission. “Barry is always in attendance at our outdoor Mass to accept the check,” said Strathman. “And [the celebrant] always asks everyone who contributed to the farmer’s market to stand. “And 75 percent of the parish stands — because they were either a customer, or they helped out in some fashion.” “But the people who get the most benefit out of the farmers’ market are the people who are involved in doing it,” claimed Holthaus, “because they develop that sense of family and friendship — and that’s what your church better be built on.”

Continued from page 1 Topeka, the group has raised more than $13,000 to feed the homeless. “I think God is doing wonderful things to help us get to this point,” Vera said. “I never dreamed in my life that we could do so much with so little.”

First seeds And to think it all started from thenpastor Father Bill Bruning’s simple request to Strathman to plant a garden at the rectory. “I guess he knew I was a farm boy,” said Strathman, by way of explanation. That farm boy proceeded to plant a 30-by-40-foot plot with radishes, spinach, green beans, potatoes, zucchini, corn and tomatoes. The little plot soon yielded so much that Father Bruning suggested that parishioners set up a market to sell the extra produce. Strathman liked the idea so much, he offered to contribute vegetables from his own garden. Parishioners Ken Stuke and Deon Zachariasen joined the effort, and the core group of Mother Teresa’s Garden was formed. The first order of business was to determine what they would do with their profits and any produce that didn’t sell. “That’s when I brought up the Topeka Rescue Mission,” said Strathman. For years, Strathman had been taking fresh produce from his own garden to the homeless mission run by Barry Feaker. “I’ve known Barry for probably 20 years,” said Strathman. “And they don’t get any funds whatsoever from the United Way.” But the shelter’s need, he knew, was great — and rising. “The number of homeless people has just expanded tremendously,” said Strathman, “especially since the economy has gotten so bad.” So the group agreed that donating to the rescue mission was a perfect way to continue Mother Teresa’s mission. “All the proceeds, other than the seed money — literally, the seed money — go to the homeless,” said Father Bruning.

It takes a village Over the next four years, as word spread and Mother Teresa’s Garden group grew, Father Bruning’s little plot was joined by seven plentiful gardens throughout the parish.

Ed Warner, the newest member of Mother Teresa’s Garden, helps pick corn for the market in fields donated by Judy and Richard Jones. Judy Jones and her husband Richard plant three acres of corn and donate all of it. Parishioner Lee Sack has a business not far from the church with extra land attached to its property. Annette Martin donates a plot for planting potatoes. And perhaps the most notable of Mother Teresa’s gardens is the hothouse on Maurice Skoch’s property. “The U.S. Department of Agriculture has a pilot program I heard about,” said Skoch. “It’s designed to incorporate a hothouse to determine additional length of growing season in this climate.” Mother Teresa Parish has the only hothouse in Shawnee County. It will be certified organic in the next year. Beginning in early spring, it’s a group effort to plant and care for the gardens. “I will send out an email to all the members,” said Strathman. “And we will set a schedule for our planting days – what we will be planting and in whose garden.” Parishioners Ted Appelhanz, Mike Holthaus and Skoch provide the large equipment to plow, disk and prepare the land for planting the seeds and to till and cultivate the crops. “Then we have Father Bob Hasenkamp,” said Strathman. “He lives in a retirement community and he comes out to help us hoe and plant. “He’s an old farm boy and just loves being a part of the group.” Stuke, who is also retired, does most of the watering during the day.

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Sister Lucero Garcia visits with one of her patients, Barbara Carroll, during her rounds. Sister Lucero is more than a nurse — she brings Communion to her patients, prays with and for them, and is always willing to listen.

Serving from the Heart

Sisters, Servants of Mary provide comfort as well as care

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — “It is not just us that will go to the homes of the sick,” said Sister Lucero Garcia of the Sisters, Servants of Mary. “Wherever any of the Sisters go, all the people supporting us are going to be there, too. “They are not present physically — but they’re with us.” Sister Lucero resides at the Sisters, Servants of Mary motherhouse in Kansas City, Kan., along with 29 other Sisters. Their mission is to care for the sick and dying, and they’ve been serving in the area since 1917. “We do it free of charge and without any deference to race, religion or illness,” said Mother Superior Sister Alicia Hermosillo. “Our mission is mostly at night.” Because the Sisters provide free medical services, they rely on divine providence and the generosity of others for their support — and sometimes even transportation to and from their patients’ homes. In anticipation of their main fundraiser, the biennial Serving from the Heart Gala (see sidebar), Leaven photographer Elaina Cochran spent a day

Serving from the Heart Gala This year’s gala will be held at the Church of the Ascension in Overland Park on Oct. 6. Cocktails and a silent auction will begin at 6:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 7:15 p.m. and a live auction at 8 p.m. For more information, visit the Serving from the Heart website at: www. servingfromtheheart.com. This benefit will help raise needed funds, enabling the Sisters, Servants of Mary to continue their ministry.

Sister Lucero distributes Communion to a patient. The Sisters, Servants of Mary mission of offering health care to the sick and dying began in the Kansas City area in 1917. with the Sisters, many of whom she recognized from an extended stay for a special issue on the Sisters five years ago. “I just love them,” she said of the experience. “They’re full of joy and full of kindness.”

Story by Jill Ragar Esfeld Photos by Elaina Cochran

Cochran accompanied Sister Lucero on day visits as she brought the Eucharist to four patients. “In every place we went, there were prevalent crosses,” she said. “And so my eye always gravitated toward them;

we were there because of a shared faith. “I tried to relate that visually — shared compassion around faith.” The first patient they visited, recalled Cochran, suffered from severe depression. “Sister [Lucero] was a listening ear, showing that someone cares,” she said. “The woman didn’t speak English, so I couldn’t understand what they were saying. “But I could tell by the mood of it how comforted she was, and how important it was for her to receive the Eucharist.” Continued on the next page

Mother Alicia, Sister Lucero, Sister Silvia, Sister Patricia, Sister Blanca, Sister Guadalupe and Sister Angelica relax with a game of volleyball on a warm summer day.

Sister Fatima Guerrero knits while listening to spiritual reading. A sign hangs outside the Sisters’ sleeping quarters, reminding all that some of the Sisters are still resting.

Sisters are a source of light during dark times Continued from previous page Next, they visited a retired priest suffering from dementia. Cochran was touched by Sister Lucero’s tender interaction with him. “Then we visited his sister who lived in another home,” said Cochran. “And she said, ‘You came to bring me Jesus!’” The last patient visited that day was in her 90s and lived alone. Her air conditioner had been recently replaced, but she was frustrated that its edges were not properly sealed against the heat outside. No sooner had the elderly patient expressed her complaint than Sister Lucero was solving the problem. “We helped get duct tape around her air conditioner,” said Cochran. “A little thing like that really makes a difference. “So the Sisters kind of wear whatever hat they need to.” Cochran also observed the overwhelming gratitude people showed during the visits. “The central theme in most conversations was how grateful [the patients] were,” she said. “They would talk about their faith and how God is bringing the Sisters to them.” She was also struck by the cheerful nature Sister Lucero brought to each home. “They are just such a sweet, happy group of women,” she said. “They’re surrounded by sickness and death and yet there is such a lightness to what they do, and so much joy and kindness and peace.” The Sisters, Servants of Mary believe that when God calls them, he gives them the grace to live the virtues of their order, which call for them to be humble and single-hearted, charitable, serviceoriented, and joyful. “And, of course, joy is the biggest one,” said Sister Alicia. “I believe it is a gift from God.” Because the Sisters, Servants are semicloistered and spend much of their day in silence, they have a deep and rich prayer life, which also adds to their joy. “Silence is for recollection,” explained Sister Cristela MacKinnon. “And recollection helps your prayer life.” Their joy, observers say, is actually pal-

pable — when the Sisters are not silent, they are laughing. “It’s really wonderful,” said Cochran. “They play sports together — still in their habits and everything — so I photographed them playing volleyball, which was awesome.” “We like a well-balanced life,” said Sister Catherine Bussen. “So we have to take care of ourselves in every aspect — spiritually, physically, emotionally. “To keep that balance to our life we have periods of recreation during the day.” For the Sisters, it is a rich and rewarding life. “We are happy at home in our community,” explained Sister Alice Restrepo. “That happiness that we have? We cannot contain it when we go out. “God is with us. We know that God is with us. So we have to give it to everybody.” Assisting the dying on their final journey is the greatest source of the Sisters’ joy. “We’ve always been taught that the night of a Servant of Mary should be a night of prayer,” said Sister Cristela. “That doesn’t mean she’s praying all night, but she sees Christ in the sick; they’re suffering like he did on the cross. “And in that way our night is a night of prayer. Our joy comes from that, too.” Sister Catherine agreed and added that the joy also stems from their knowledge of death as a new beginning. “For us, with our Catholic faith, we know that dying is not the end,” she said. “There’s something beyond that, and so we help other people see that, too. And ultimately that is joy.” “That’s true,” said Sister Lucero. “Death is not an end; rather, it is a passage into eternity.” Though Cochran tried to capture the Sisters’ compassion and joy in her photographs, she highly recommends attending their annual gala to witness it in person. “Take any opportunity you have to go to their fundraiser,” she said. “It’s a worthwhile experience to see people who just embody joy!”

Sister Elizabeth Miles serves as lector at the Sisters’ morning Mass.

Sister Victoria Villareal reads the latest from the Holy Father in the Vatican’s L’Osservatore Romano newspaper.

Sister Lucero spends time chatting with one of her patients. Despite the dire situations many of their patients are in, the Sisters are able to bring them comfort and joy. The Sisters, Servants of Mary are a semi-cloistered order and spend much of their day in silence.

THE LEAVEN • september 14, 2012

Nation Bishop Finn convicted of failure to report abuse KANSAS CITY, Mo. (CNS) — Bishop Robert W. Finn of Kansas City-St. Joseph was convicted Sept. 6 of one count of failing to report suspected child abuse and acquitted on another count in a brief bench trial. Jackson County Circuit Judge John M. Torrence issued the verdict and quickly Bishop set and suspended Robert W. Finn a sentence of two years’ probation. The charges carried a possible maximum sentence of one year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. In a courtroom statement following the verdict, Bishop Finn said he truly regretted and was sorry for the hurt the events caused. Bishop Finn was indicted last October on the misdemeanor charges of failing to report suspected child abuse to state authorities. The case began in December 2010, after a computer technician discovered child pornography on a computer used by Father Shawn Ratigan and turned it over to diocesan authorities. Authorities were not notified until six months later, when a search of the priest’s family home turned up images of child pornography. Father Ratigan pleaded guilty in August to charges of producing child pornography.

Documentary aims to depict teens’ faith DRAPER, Utah (CNS) — Filmmakers seeking to capture American high school

CNS photo/Monica Quesada, Reuters

Siblings look Sept. 6 at the tombstone of their father’s grave that collapsed along with others during an earthquake at a cemetery in Alajuela, Costa Rica. The magnitude-7.6 quake struck northwest Costa Rica the previous day, killing at least two people, damaging homes and some Catholic churches. students as they balance the demands of the Catholic faith with life as a teenager chose a Catholic high school in Utah for their pilot documentary. Planet Grande Pictures filmed the students at Juan Diego Catholic High School in Draper during the first week of school, Aug. 20-22. The project is tentatively titled “Diary of a Catholic School.” Working with partners Octagon and Flying Kitty, Planet Grande Pictures began this project last spring by interviewing 90 students during a three-day period to get an idea of what was on the minds of the students. Producers wanted to present a proposal for a series to Lifetime cable network, with Juan Diego as the featured high school in eight to 10 episodes. “We

have several networks that are interested in the documentary, based on what we have already filmed,” said John Watkin, Planet Grande Pictures director/producer and editor/cameraman. “We are going to take the material we have filmed over the last three days, cut it, show the networks and hopefully excite them to run the series.”

world Muslim cleric arrested in case against Christian girl VATICAN CITY (CNS) — The case against

New briefs 11 a Pakistani Christian girl accused of blasphemy seemed to take a turn in her favor after a Muslim cleric was arrested on suspicion of fabricating evidence against her. Khalid Jadoon Chishti, the imam or prayer leader who has accused Rimsha Masih of burning pages of the Muslim holy book, was taken into police custody Sept. 2. According to a police official quoted by the Associated Press, witnesses claim the imam tore pages from a Quran and planted them along with burned pieces of paper in the girl’s bag. Rimsha has been in police custody since Aug. 18. Her parents said she is 11 years old and has Down syndrome; a court appointed physician found that she was about 14 and is developmentally delayed. A Pakistan court delayed her bail hearing until Sept. 1, but postponed it again until Sept. 7 after the judge in the case changed. The girl’s lawyer, Tahir Naveed, told Vatican Radio Sept. 3 that with the arrest of the Muslim cleric, “it is no secret that Rimsha is innocent. This shows that there was a conspiracy.” Naveed said Rimsha’s case is just the latest instance of someone misusing Pakistan’s strict antiblasphemy laws to intimidate or persecute others. “After the arrest of Imam Jadoon, everyone is talking and reflecting on the fact that this law can be used improperly and even abused,” Naveed said. Capuchin Father Francis Nadeem, coordinator of the National Council for Interreligious Dialogue in Lahore, said the charges against the girl appeared to be part of a plot by a local “land mafia.” “Unscrupulous criminals intend to wrest land from Christians and drive them out from Mehrabadi, a suburb of Islamabad where Rimsha’s family lives,” Father Nadeem told the Vatican’s missionary news agency Fides. “This is why they made up the case, blaming an innocent child.”

12 CLASSIFIEDS

THE LEAVEN • SEPTEMBER 14, 2012

Employment

aid training. Competitive pay. For more info, contact Trina at: the4tafts@hotmail.com.

Human Resources specialist – The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is accepting applications for a position to support the human resources department in a variety of areas. Duties include: processing payroll; coordinating recruiting efforts; assisting foreign religious with immigration applications; and assisting with the performance management process. Ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic in good standing; have strong communication skills, both written and verbal; demonstrated attention to detail; experience with online technology and communication; and strong mathematical aptitude. Bachelor’s degree in human resources, or related field, or significant human resources experience required. A complete job description, application and benefits information are available on the archdiocese’s website at: www.archkck.org/employ ment. Interested individuals should mail cover letter, resume, and application by Sept. 28 to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, or send via email to: kthomas@archkck.org.

Driver wanted - Holy Cross parishioner is looking for a ride to church (8311 W. 93rd St., Overland Park), medical appointments, and errands. Will pay for gas and $9+ or more per hour (negotiable). Can possibly use my car. Call (913) 642-2628.

Advertising and multimedia coordinator - The Leaven, the official newspaper of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, is seeking applications for a full-time entry level position that will include light bookkeeping and ad management, as well as support responsibilities for The Leaven’s writing, photography, videography and Web efforts. A bachelor’s degree is required, preferably in journalism or multimedia. Some work experience in a related field is preferred, as is expertise in InDesign, CMS programs, iMovie or Final Cut. Ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic with a willingness to learn, proven attention to detail, and enthusiasm for diocesan news. A complete job description, application and benefits information are available on the archdiocese’s website at: www.archkck.org/employ ment. Interested individuals should mail cover letter, resume, and application by Sept. 21 to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, Leaven Search, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, or send via email to: kthomas@archkck.org. Carpet cleaning technician - Love interacting with

people and being part of a team? Have a passion to serve others and enjoy the benefits of some physical work? Then join one of the most respected, progressive service companies in Kansas City. Make top industry pay and be appreciated for a job well done. Bock’s Steam Star is accepting applications for two positions. $10 - $40K. Call (913) 438-7767 or visit the website at: www.steamstar.net.

Preschool teachers - The Goddard School, located at 21820 W. 115th Terr. in Olathe, is looking to add qualified lead teachers, assistant teachers and substitute teachers to our wonderful staff. In our warm, loving atmosphere caring teachers support the healthy development of children from six weeks to six years. Candidates should be prepared to plan and facilitate lessons and communicate effectively with children, families, co-workers and administrators. Both full- and part-time positions are available. Lead teachers should have a degree in early childhood education or a related field, or a CDA. Prior experience in a child care setting is preferred. Please forward your resume via email to: olathe2ks@goddardschools.com. Owners are parishioners of Church of the Ascension. Part-time receptionist/ admin. assistant - Position available at established construction management/ real estate development firm. Flexible 30-hour Monday through Friday workweek. An excellent opportunity for advancement for the right person. Please send resume to: john.powell41@gmail.com

Financial representative - Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding financial representatives in the Kansas City area. This position is ideal for a determined, high-energy, highexpectation, professional, self-disciplined, independent individual desiring to serve others, yet earn a betterthan-average income. We provide top-rated financial products to our members and their families and will provide excellent benefits and training. For information or an interview, contact John A. Mahon, 307 Dakota, Holton KS 66436; call (785) 364-5450; or send an email to him at: john.mahon@kofc.org. Youth minister - St. Charles Borromeo Parish, Kan-

sas City, Mo., is seeking a part-time, dynamic, faith-alive youth minister to walk with young church members of junior and senior high ages and their families. Coordination and facilitation of confirmation preparation, formation, prayer and service/justice experiences desired. Candidate to actively recruit and empower youth and volunteers in learning and leading opportunities, especially with a summer service week, KCYC/NCYC trips, monthly and seasonal events. Hours are negotiable, based upon experience and programming. For information, call Maureen Poulin at (816) 436-0880. Applicants should mail a cover letter and resume to: St. Charles Borromeo Youth Minister Search, 900 N.E. Shady Lane Dr., Kansas City, MO 64118. Church nursery worker wanted! - Sunday mornings, possibly evenings. Brookside area. Must have experience & training working with young children, CPR & first

Services Sprinkler System Fall Special!! Aftin Lawn and Landscape, Olathe 25% down. Rest over 12 months!! Free Estimates/Insured/Refs Local Parishioners (913) 620-6063

Interior and exterior painting and wallpaper removal - 30-plus years experience. Quality work; excellent references; reasonable rates. Senior discount. Member of St. Ann Parish, Prairie Village. Call Joe at (913) 620-5776.

industries.com.

Garage door and opener sales and service - 24hour, 7-day-a-week service on all types of doors. Replace broken springs, cables, hinges, rollers, gate openers, entry and patio doors, and more. Over 32 years of experience. Call (913) 227-4902. EL SOL Y LA TIERRA *Commercial & residential * Lawn renovation *Mowing * Clean-up and hauling * Dirt grading/installation * Landscape design * Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!! Call Lupe at (816) 252-3376

Perfect Roof - Free estimates; roofing repairs if needed. Hail and wind damage inspections. Insured and reasonable. Call (816) 288-1693. Masonry work - Quality new or repair work. Brick,

Cleaning lady - Reasonable rates; references provided. Call (913) 940-2959.

block and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; second-generation bricklayer. Member of St. Paul Parish, Olathe. Call (913) 829-4336.

Housecleaning - Old-fashioned cleaning, hand

The Drywall Doctor, Inc. - A unique solution to

mopping, etc. A thorough and consistent job every time. References from customers I’ve served for over 17 years. Call Sharon at (816) 322-0006 (home) or (816) 214-0156 (mobile).

Girl Friday Services

Sewing, ironing, quilting, cooking, typing and errand running. Let me do the work for you! Call Deborah at (913) 648-7258

Bankruptcy consultation - If debts are overwhelming you, seek hope and help from compassionate, experienced Catholic attorney, Teresa Kidd. For a free consultation, call (913) 422-0610; send an email to: tkidd@ kc.rr.com; or visit the website at: www.bank ruptcylawinkansascity.com.

your drywall problems! We fix all types of ceiling and wall damage — from water stains and stress cracks to texture repairs and skim coating. We provide professional, timely repairs and leave the job site clean! Lead-certified and insured! Serving the metro since 1997. Call (913) 768-6655.

Brick mason - Installation and repair of all types of masonry work — brick, stone, and concrete. 17 years of residential and commercial experience. Small and large jobs accepted. Free quotes in the KC metro area. Call Jim or John at (913) 485-4307.

Irrigation install and repair

Swalms Organizing Service - Basement, garage, attic, shop — any room organized! Items taken to donation sites, trash is bagged, and areas are clean and neat when job is complete. To view before-and-after pictures, visit the website at: www.swalms.com. Over 20 years of organizing experience; insured. Call Tillar at (913) 375-9115.

www.foleyslawncare.com

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

Free wireless rain sensor with a full install. Call John at (913) 825-4353 or visit the website at: Member of St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.

Mike Hammer local moving - A full-service mover. Packing, pianos, rental truck load/unload, storage container load/unload, and in-home moving. No job too small. Serving JoCo since 1987. St. Joseph, Shawnee, parishioner. Call Mike at (913) 927-4347 or send an email to: mikehammermoving@aol.com. Agua Fina Irrigation and Landscape The one-stop location for your project! Landscape and irrigation design, installation and maintenance. Cleanup and grading services

It’s time to repair your lawn. 20% discount on lawn renovations with mention of this ad. Visit the website at: www.goaguafina.com Call (913) 530-7260 or (913) 530-5661

Rodman Lawn Care - Mowing, leaf removal, mulch

and more. Call John Rodman, member of Holy Cross Parish, Overland Park, at (913) 548-3002 or send an email to him at: Rodman.Lawn@yahoo.com.

Lawn mowing

Free estimates; references Insured, licensed and bonded Local parishioner

Call Tony at (913) 620-6063

Tree service - Pruning trees for optimal growth and beauty and removal of hazardous limbs or problem trees. Free consultation and bid. Safe, insured, professional. Cristofer Estrada, Green Solutions of KC, (913) 378-5872. www.GreenSolutionsKC.com. Fire and water damage restoration - Water- damaged sheetrock removed and replaced, painting, tile, mold treatment, and lead safe certified textured ceilings repaired; insurance claims welcome; fully insured. Serving Kansas City for 22 years. Call Jerry at (913) 631-5241.

Home Improvement Detail construction and remodeling - We offer a full line of home remodeling services. Don’t move — remodel! Johnson county area. Call for a free quote. (913) 709-8401. Decks by Jake - Power washing, wood preserving

and staining. References available. Call Jake at (913) 9096058. St. Joseph, Shawnee, parishioner. Clutter getting you down? Organize, fix, assemble, clean! “Kevin Of All Trades” your professional organizing handyman. For a free consultation, call today (913)2715055. Insured; references. Visit the website at: www.koat-

Get a jump on your home repairs! - I specialize in painting, wood rot, decks, fences, windows, doors, siding, stucco, landscaping, drainage issues, and concrete. Fully insured. Now accepting all major credit cards. Call Josh Doherty (913) 709-7230. Adept Home Improvements Where quality still counts! Basement finishing, Kitchens and baths, Electrical and plumbing, Licensed and insured. (913) 599-7998

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.

Exterior painting, drywall projects, wood rot repair, bathroom and kitchen remodels, and tile work - Quality products. 20 years experience. References.

Call (913) 206-4524.

STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Free estimates. Call (913) 491-5837 or (913) 5791835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.

Caregiving CNA – Would you like to keep your senior loved one in the comfort of their own home? Compassionate, nurturing, attentive home health care professional provides quality service and personal assistance. Twenty years experience, nonsmoker, available anytime. Excellent references; reasonable rates. Call Rosalyn at (816) 830-7455.

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

Retired nurse - With 20-plus years of caregiving experience is seeking to care for an individual and their home on a full-time basis. Live-in position is preferred. I will provide caregiving, meal preparation, housekeeping, laundry, errands, etc. My goal is to keep your loved one in their home. Reasonable rates and excellent references. Call (913) 579-5276. Have a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease?

Inquire about our fresh, unique approach to care. At ComfortCare Homes of Kansas City, we provide a calm, stressfree and well-structured home environment for five to eight residents living with Alzheimer’s disease. A ComfortCare home is not “homelike” but rather it is a real home in a real neighborhood — there are no signs in the yard, no restaurant-style dining and no long, impersonal halls lined with patients. To tour and learn more, call Courtney Minter at (913) 609-1891 or visit the website at: www. ComfortCareKC.com.

For Rent For rent - 1 BR, 1 BA apartment in St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee. Near Nieman and Johnson Dr. $520/ month; utilities included. 10911 W. 59th Terr. Nonsmokers only. For a virtual tour, visit the website at: www. shawnee-rentals.com. Call (913) 649-7596. Charming rental - 3 BR, 2-1/2 BA home with a roomy dine-in kitchen, family room with gas fireplace, two-car garage and a full unfinished basement. No lawn mowing; no snow shoveling. 12470 Charlotte, Kansas City, Mo. For information or a tour, call (913) 707-4826 or (913) 485-8442. House for rent - 3 blks from Ascension (OP), 4 BD, 3 full/2 half BA, finished basement, master bedroom, with jacuzzi & sitting room, lawn main., granite, eat-in kitchen, 12842 Wedd; $2000; (913) 451-2322. More info at: https://sites.google.com/site/janesak/home.

Real Estate Home for sale - KCK home for sale. 1907 N. 40th St. 1-1/2 story, 3 BR, 2 BA, sunroom. Partially finished basement with rec. room. Close to Christ the King Parish and School. Priced to sell. Lots of storage space. Large rooms. Call Phyllis at Reece and Nichols at (913) 299-4555. Franklin County - Newly remodeled 4 BR home on 130 acres with a six-stall horse barn and much wildlife. All hard-surface road, short distance south of Overland Park. Call Galyardt Realty at (785) 550-0977. Merriam home for sale - 10124 W. 59th Terr. Close to St. Joseph Church and School. 3 BR, 2-1/2 BA. Home is in move-in-ready condition. Mature trees and located on a friendly cul-de-sac. For information, call (913) 7350074 or visit the website at: www.merriamhome.net. Investors - Why play the stock market? Become a passive real estate investor. If you want to discuss the possibility of investing in real estate that produces positive income with a seasoned investor, call (913) 980-3559. Home for sale - Shawnee - 1½ story, 3 BR, 2½ BA, lower level walkout w/daylight, ready to expand living space. 8 yrs. young. Call Ken at (913) 484-6942.

Continued from the previous page

Vacation Branson getaway - Walk-in condo on Pointe Royale Golf Course. Sleeps 6. Close to lakes and entertainment. Furnished, pool, hot tub and tennis courts. Nightly and weekly rates. Discounts available. Call (913) 515-3044. Mountain cabin in Winter Park, Colo. - 2 BR, 1 BA, fully furnished; sleeps four. View of Continental Divide from deck. Close to points of interest and activities. $75/night. Call (913) 642-3027. For pictures, visit the website at: www.tillmancabin.com.

Branson condo nightly rental - 2 king BRs, 2 BA; sleeps 6. Sunporch overlooks public golf course. Walk-in level (no steps), flat screen TVs, and fully equipped kitchen. Near the Hwy. 76 strip. No smoking; no pets. Members of Holy Cross Parish, Overland Park. Call (913) 851-8886. Vacation Condo for Rent Marco Island, FL South Seas Club – Gated Community 2 BD, 2 BA, perfect weather Contact Bret at (816) 679-7898

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

Heirloom quality doll furniture - For the American Girl dolls. John Hember (913) 631-4060. Member of St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee. In-home showroom now open, call to see. Visit the website at: www.bedsandthreads.com. For sale - Two cemetery plots. Oaklawn Cemetery. In Resurrection South, spaces 3 and 4 in lot 34. $2400 for the pair. Call (913) 609-2777.

Max’s rosaries - Custom-made locally for all occasions – first Communion, confirmation, baptism, graduation. Rosary bracelets and beaded earrings too! I also do repairs. Member of the Church of the Ascension, Overland Park. Call (913) 400-3236.

Roommate Seeking - A mature female with verifiable income

to share a 2 BR, 1 BA townhome in Overland Park. Clubhouse and pool on complex. No pets or children; outside smokers only. $525 per month; utilities included. Call Sally at (816) 600-7734 (mobile).

Child Care Child Care – Holy Trinity mom has opening for 15-month-old or older, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call Tracie at (913) 909-7927.

Lake of the Ozarks - Roach, Mo. - Little Niangua 94’ lake front, dock, level lot, 3 BR, 2 BA, partial bsmt., private well, private septic, carport. For sale by owner, $249,000. 1886 Big Island Dr. Call (913) 432-1309 or (913) 226-8416.

Wanted to Buy Antiques wanted

I buy old pocket & wrist watches; sets of silverware; souvenir spoons; advertising signs; coins; and Native American turquoise jewelry, arrowheads & rugs. Call

Chris at (913) 593-7507 or (913) 642-8269.

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, prints, sterling, etc. Renee Maderak (913) 631-7179 St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee Continued on the next page

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

Sept. 14-16

Sophia Center, 751 S. 8th St., Atchison, will host “Everywhere A Blessing: A Celtic Spirituality Retreat,” presented by Benedictine Sister Therese Elias, from 7 p.m. on Sept. 14 through 1 p.m. on Sept. 16. The cost is $180. For information or to register, call (913) 360-6151 or visit the website at: www. mount osb.org/sophia.html.

The Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women (ACCW) will sponsor a pilgrimage to St. John Nepomucene Church in Pilsen on Sept. 15. Spouses, family members, and friends are welcome. The cost of $55 includes: bus service from either Kansas City, Kan., Lawrence, or Topeka; lunch; a presentation; and a tour of the church and grounds. Reservations are required and space is limited. To RSVP, call Susan Draftz at (913) 674-6172 or send an email to her at: sdraftz@prolifeamerica.com. Christ’s Peace House of Prayer, Easton, will host a contemplative prayer retreat day from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Sept. 15. Instruction will be provided on request. Full- or half-day attendance options are available, with the noon meal included. The cost is $25 per participant. For information, call (913) 773-8255 or send an email to: info@christpeace.com.

The Singles Of Nativity dance contest, “So you think you can dance?,” will be held from 7 to 11 p.m. on Sept. 15 at 119th and Mission, Leawood. Tickets are $10 for SON members and $15 for guests. The categories are East Coast, waltz, disco and ladies team line dance. To enter, send an email with name(s) and preferred dance contest to: dyervision@sbcglobal.net. You may only enter one contest as a couple or team. If you’d like to volunteer and get in free for your service, contact Robert Dyer at: dyervision@sbcglobal.net. St. Matthew Church, 2700 S.E. Virginia Ave., Topeka, will host its annual dinner auction on Sept. 15. Cocktail hour begins at 6:15 p.m.; dinner will be served at 7 p.m.; and the live auction will follow at 8 p.m. The cost is $40 per person; attire is semi-formal. The reservation deadline is Sept. 10. For information or to RSVP, call the parish office at (785) 232- 5012 or send an email to: parishoffice@saintmatthews. org. St. Peter Cathedral Parish, 409 N. 15th St., Kansas City, Kan., will host a fall festival, with a taco dinner and activities, from 5-9 p.m. on Sept. 15. For information, call David and Diane at (913) 342-8878.

A memorial liturgy for deceased loved ones will be at 8 a.m. on Sept. 15 at Curé of Ars Parish, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood.

Afterwards, the bereavement ministry will meet in the Father Burak Room. For information, call (913) 649-2026. Father Justin Damien Dean, OSB, will be the celebrant at the archdiocesan monthly pro-life Mass at 8 a.m. on Sept. 15 at Sts. Cyril & Methodius Church, 44 N. Mill St., Kansas City, Kan. There will be a rosary procession to an abortion clinic approximately four blocks away immediately following the Mass. There will be Benediction at 9:45 a.m., and eucharistic adoration for those not processing.

15-16

Prairie Star Ranch, Williamsburg, will host Prairie Star Under the Stars for youth groups from 10 a.m. on Sept. 15 until 9:30 a.m. on Sept. 16. There will be eucharistic adoration, sacrament of reconciliation, a campfire, gaga ball tournament, canoes and the power pole. The cost is $5 per person with preregistration;

THE LEAVEN • SEPTEMBER 14, 2012 $10 per person at the gate. Preregistration forms are online at: www.archkck.org/psr.

Sacred Heart Parish, Emporia, will celebrate its 100th anniversary of the church building on Sept. 16. From 1:30 - 4:30 p.m. are games and activities for all ages, horse-and-buggy rides, a history museum of the parish and live music. Archbishop Naumann will bless the church at 4:30 p.m. A pulled pork dinner will follow Mass. St. Therese Church, Richmond, will host its annual parish dinner on Sept. 16 from

11 a.m. - 2 p.m. The cost is: $8 for adults; $5 for children ages 4-10; carryout, $9. There will be a raffle and country store.

St. Joseph Parish, 306 N. Broadway St., Leavenworth, will host a roast beef dinner and bazaar on Sept. 16. Dinner will be served from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The cost is: $8 for adults; $5 for children ages 4 to 11; and free for children age 3 and younger. For information, call (913) 6823953 or visit the website at: www.icsj.org. Prairie Star Ranch, 1124 California Rd., Williamsburg, will offer a family day from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Sept. 16. For costs, registration, liability waiver and other information, go to: www.archkck.org/psr and click on the “Family Day at the Ranch” image.

18-20

St. Agnes Parish, 5250 Mission Rd., Roeland Park, will host three evenings of faith formation and eucharistic adoration from 7-9 p.m. on Sept. 18, 19 and

20. The event will be presented by members of the Apostles of the Interior Life communities and lay movement.

The Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception will offer a Divine Mercy mission/time of renewal from 7-8 p.m. on Sept. 19 at Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish, 7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park. For information, call Judy Dowd at (913) 362-7893. Magnus MacFarlane-Barrow, the founder of the Scotland-based international relief program Mary’s Meals, will speak about his efforts and host rosaries and reflections at two archdiocesan parishes on Sept. 19. Barrow will speak at the Men of Nativity meeting after the 6:45 a.m. Mass at Church of the Nativity, 3700 W. 119th St., Leawood; and at 7 p.m. at Holy Spirit Parish, 11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park. For information, call Liz Kelly at (913) 488-9800 or Lorraine Fowler at (913) 6342646.

20 John Pridmore, a former gang member from London and speaker at the

2008 World Youth Day, will talk about his conversion to Christ at the youth program at 7:30 p.m. on Sept. 20 at St. Ann Parish, 7231 Mission Rd., Prairie Village. For information, call Liz Kelly at (913) 488-9800 or Lorraine Fowler at (913) 634-2646. There will be two garage sales to benefit Mother’s Hands Foundation from Sept. 20

– 22 at 13991 W. 115th St., Olathe, and at 10778 S. Deer Run St., Olathe.

A course in the symptothermal method of natural family planning will be at 7 p.m. on Sept. 21 at St. Paul Parish,

900 Honeysuckle Dr., Olathe. Online registration is required at: www.ccli.org. For information, including course fee, call Christine or David Downey at (913) 837-3182 or the Couple to Couple League of Kansas City at (913) 894-3558.

Bishop Miege High School, 5041 Reinhardt Dr., Roeland Park, will host an alumni tailgate before the homecoming game

CALENDAR 13

from 5-7 p.m. on Sept. 21 on the west side of the Miege parking lot. The cost is $5 for hot dogs, chips and water. The Bishop Miege High School class of 1972 will have a 40th reunion. For tickets

to the homecoming football game Sept. 21, contact Mary Mullin at: mjm2406@aol.com, or on the Facebook page “Bishop Miege Class of 1972.” Alumni will meet 7 p.m. on Sept. 22 at the Waldo Pizza Tap Room, 7433 Broadway, Kansas City, Mo.

St. Joseph Parish, 11311 Johnson Dr., Shawnee, will host a fall festival on Sept. 21. A fried chicken dinner will be served from 5-7 p.m. in McDevitt Hall. There will be a dance and activities. For information, call Mike and Tandy Reichmeier at (913) 492-3356.

There will be a taco dinner fundraiser from 1-6 p.m. on Sept. 22 in the Father Carl Zawacki Social Hall at Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish, 71st and Metcalf,

Overland Park. The cost is $6.50 for the adult plate and $3 for the child plate. Proceeds will benefit Our Lady of Guadalupe Society Ministry.

Holy Family Parish, 274 Orchard St., Kansas City, Kan., will host its Slovenefest on Sept. 22. There will be a Mass at 4 p.m., followed by the dinner and festivities until 10 p.m. For information, call Richard Schutte at (913) 669-3677 or the church office at (913) 371-1561.

St. John Parish, Greeley, will host a fall bazaar on Sept. 23. A dinner with chicken and noodles, turkey and ham will be served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The cost is: $9 for adults; $9.50 for carryouts; $6 for children ages 5 to 11; and $5 for children younger than age 5.

The Knights of Columbus, St. Michael the Archangel Council No. 12577, will host second- and third-degree exemplifications beginning at 1 p.m. on Sept. 23 at St. Michael the Archangel Parish, 14251 Nall

Ave., Leawood. The cost is $5 for each candidate; goodwill donations will be accepted. Have a third-degree member from your council attend for each candidate taking the degree. Candidates must arrive 30 minutes before the start of the degree. Second-degree candidates will be exemplified first. For information, call Joe James at (727) 480-4172 or send an email to: grandknight@kofcstmichael.org. Let him know how many candidates and members will attend.

Misc.

The Trinity Threaders of Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa, are selling tickets for a raffle of a queen-size hand-stitched quilt.

Tickets are $1 each or six for $5. To purchase tickets, call Linda Moyer at (913) 541-2665 or Joanne Heide at (913) 7801862. Tickets will also be available for purchase after Masses, beginning on the weekend of Sept. 22 - 23.

Church of the Ascension, Overland Park, is looking for vendors for its 9th annual Ascension Marketplace on Nov. 16 and 17. Application forms and additional information can be found on its website at: www.kcascension. org. Click on the events tab. Vendors wanted by Sept. 15. For more information, call (913) 6813348 or send an email to Francie Kwapiszeski at: francie @kcascension.org.

14 COMMENTARY

THE LEAVEN • september 14, 2012

Mark my words

Catholic Press Association Award Winner

1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012

Quote Week

of the

“They are just such a sweet, happy group of women. They’re surrounded by sickness and death and yet there is such a lightness to what they do, and so much joy and kindness and peace.” Elaina Cochran, Leaven freelance photographer See story on page 7

Twenty-FOURTH week of ordinary time

Sept. 16 Twenty-fourth SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Is 50: 5-9a; Ps 116: 1-6, 8-9; Jas 2: 14-18; Mk 8: 27-35 Sept. 17 Robert Bellarmine, bishop, doctor of the church 1 Cor 11: 17-26, 33; Ps 40: 7-10, 17; Lk 7: 1-10 Sept. 18 Tuesday 1 Cor 12: 12-14, 27-31a; Ps 100: 1-5; Lk 7: 11-17 Sept. 19 Januarius, bishop, martyr 1 Cor 12: 31 — 13: 13; Ps 33: 2-5, 12, 22; Lk 7: 31-35 Sept. 20 Andrew Kim Tae-gon, priest, Paul Chong Ha-sang, and companions, martyrs 1 Cor 15: 1-11; Ps 118: 1b-2, 16ab - 17, 28; Lk 7: 36-50 Sept. 21 MATTHEW, APOSTLE, EVANGELIST Eph 4: 1-7, 11-13; Ps 19: 2-5; Mt 9: 9-13 Sept. 22 Saturday 1 Cor 15: 33-37, 42-49; Ps 50: 10-14; Lk 8: 4-15

cef centered

Not just another song and dance

ast Saturday night, I watched scores of people trip the light fantastic. Although very tempted to join them, I didn’t, as I was fearful I’d only do a fantastic trip into the lights. Trip the light fantastic. Its first mention dates back to the English poet John Milton. The word “trip,” at least since the poet Geoffrey Chaucer used it in 1386, meant, “dance nimbly.” In Milton’s poem, “L’Allegro” (1645), he writes: “Come, and trip it as you go/On the light fantastic toe.” Over time, the word “toe” was forgotten, and we have the expression as it is today. Those people I saw dancing were at a wedding reception of a longtime friend of mine. The bride and I had once played, danced and sung with the St. John’s Catholic Club Tamburitzans, a folk orchestra that sought to preserve the music of our Croatian ancestors who settled on Strawberry Hill in Kansas City, Kan. Not surprisingly, there was a tamburitza — that’s the generic name for the stringed instruments that are played — band from Chicago cranking out the tunes at the reception, and people made good use of the dance floor, especially to do kolos, or circle dances. Another band — this one a zydeco, Bourbon Street, rock ‘n’ roll group, in which the bride is a vocalist and percussionist — played as well. Between the two, that dance floor got a workout. It was amazing to see how music could unite the diverse crowd: young and old; those attired in everything from business casual to shorts and Hawaiian shirts; and people from Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Illinois and Alaska. I was still pondering this on Monday when I received an email with a video attached. The friend who sent it wrote: “I thought I’d share it because it just made me happy to watch people

who weren’t arguing or fighting about anything. Makes one think that if we got rid of all the politicians and statesmen, we might actually have a lot in common.” Well, I played the video . . . and then watched it a second time, then a third. And my friend was right: It made me happy, too. The five-minute clip features a song performed by Alicia Lemke, entitled “Trip the Light.” And, yes, it does refer to what I’ve been talking about: dancing. (It’s on YouTube, by the way.) The video follows a man by the name of Matt Harding as he travels around the world and invites people — lots and lots of them — to dance with him. He dances in all kinds of ethnic costumes, in all kinds of venues: from the highlands of Scotland to the deserts of Saudi Arabia to the underwater depths of the Great Barrier Reef! Heck, at one point he even dances with a seal. It’s like a National Geographic magazine come to life. Harding hits familiar places like Rome, Athens, Cairo, Moscow, Barcelona, Beijing and Jerusalem. And he travels to many American cities. But he also goes to exotic locales like: Tallinn, Estonia; Poria, Papua New Guinea; Terelj, Mongolia; Al-Muzahmiyya, Saudi Arabia; Opuwo, Namibia; and Rangli Island, Maldives. He even dances in dangerous places where I never picture people dancing: Rafah, Gaza Strip; Kabul, Afghanistan;

Medellin, Colombia; Erbil, Iraq; and Damascus, Syria. In every locale, the story is the same: Dancing unites people and makes them smile. The folks that you see in this video — Harding, in particular — are not professional dancers; they’re simply people moving in unison and having a great deal of fun in the process. Dancing is both humbling and exhilarating. It’s humbling because it takes a person out of his or her comfort zone to move in ways and at a tempo that are outside our normal routine. This often seems awkward and unnatural at first. In other words, we’re awfully selfconscious when we’re hoofing it. At the same time, though, it’s exhilarating. As one song puts it, we “let the music take control” and enter, in a sense, into the harmony of all creation. The lyrics in the video speak about traveling “far from what I know/I’ll be swept away. . . . We’re gonna trip the light/We’re gonna break the night/And we’ll see with new eyes/When we trip the light.” That’s what Harding experiences in his dance around the world. Essentially, people are people, no matter where they live. Dancing is one way to break the “night” of prejudice and fear that so often divides us. It gives us new eyes. Music and dance are a language that we can all understand. I wonder what would happen if, for example, Congress or the United Nations started every session by dancing. Would humility replace arrogance? Would laughter be heard instead of shouting? Would we move together in a common direction rather than pull apart? I guess that all we can do for now is dream of that and entrust ourselves and our world to the Lord of the Dance.

In the beginning

God is truly the help of those with faith

ost households today cannot afford to employ servants. But a hundred years ago, that was a frequent practice among the wealthy. At the same time, the servants were kept to the background. Sometimes the house was constructed with a staircase specifically for twenty-fourth the servants, sunday in to separate ordinary time them from the Is 50: 5-9a family. The servant was an employee, not a member of the family. He was meant to stay out of sight. In the book of the prophet Isaiah, a mysterious figure appears who is identified as God’s servant. No name is given to this person, but this servant of God seems to anticipate Jesus Christ, especially in the aspects of his suffering and death. Accordingly, later Christian tradition relies on Isaiah’s prophecy in understanding Jesus’ final hours. Sunday’s first reading — Is 50:4c-9a — describes God’s servant as humbly submitting to persecution at the hands of his enemies. This mistreatment includes physical beatings and demeaning insults, spitting in his face

and plucking his beard. Yet, through it all, God’s servant is able to hold fast, because he believes that God will rescue him. Twice he repeats the words: “The Lord God is my help.” That phrase expresses his confidence in his ultimate victory because of God. Despite all appearances to the contrary, in submitting to his enemies, God’s servant is not obeying them, but instead is obeying God. The servant makes that clear by declaring: “The Lord God opens my ear that I may hear; and I have not rebelled, have not turned back.” It is God that the servant has not rebelled against, not his enemies. God remains the ultimate authority for the servant in all that happens to him. Even though the enemies appear to hold the upper hand, that is only tem-

commentary 15

porary. God is the one calling the shots. God will eventually prevail. In other words, the servant is not relying upon his own strength of character, his own internal resources, to resist his enemies. Instead, he depends completely upon God. That reliance apparently allows him to acquiesce to his enemies. When Jesus Christ went through his passion and death on the cross, he appeared to submit to the Roman authorities who were putting him to death. He did not resist. At the same time, he received strength from his faith in God to endure those sufferings. He was confident that God would eventually vindicate him. That vindication arrives in the form of Jesus’ resurrection on Easter Sunday. The mystery of the resurrection makes it abundantly clear that God is truly the help of those who have faith. As the servant had affirmed centuries earlier: “The Lord God is my help.” Father Mike Stubbs is the pastor of Holy Cross Parish in Overland Park and has a degree in Scripture from Harvard University.

Join Catholic school supporters at Gaudeamus dinner

o start, I hope the recent summer months were enjoyable for you and your family. I have missed you during the past three months. I am sure you feel the same. To remind you, I am one who likes to play games. So, with this very special edition of this year’s article series, I am going to discuss one game and play another in the same article. I know. They said it could not be done. But here we go. How many of you play chess? I see by the show of hands that we do have some intellects in the crowd. Our brief chess game conversation today will be focused on bishops. To make sure we are together, chess bishops are characterized and have move capabilities as follows: Bishops usually gain in rela-

tive strength toward the endgame; the bishop has no restrictions in distance for each move; more experienced players understand the power of the bishop; and a player possessing a pair of bishops has a strategic advantage. And now, what you all have been waiting for . . . our bishop and archbishop trivia game: • Who was the first bishop in this diocese? • Which bishop was the first to administer the entire state of Kansas? • Who was the first bishop to have the position during different times in Kansas and Missouri? • Which bishop founded the first high school in Topeka?

• At the start of the Great Depression, who was leading this diocese? • Who founded the first diocesan newspaper? • Which individual founded Donnelly College? (OK, a hint — his last name starts with a “D.”) • Who was the first archbishop in this archdiocese? • The beginning of Savior Pastoral Center took place under whose guidance? • Our 10th bishop is a native of which windy city? • Who is our current archbishop? (If you can’t answer this one, go back to my chess game, third point.) As I prepared for this writing, it became very evident that one common theme for the 11 shepherds of this diocese is their commitment to Catholic education. From the mid-1800s to today, that direction has not changed! With this article, I cordially invite each of you to this year’s Catholic Education Foundation Gaudeamus dinner on

Oct. 20, where we will be honoring bishops and archbishops, past and present, for their support of Catholic education over the years. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann will be accepting the “Angels Among Us” award on behalf of the others. Archbishop Emeritus James P. Keleher will also be joining us as we celebrate Catholic education. The other nine shepherds will be smiling, looking down from above, on this very special evening. P.S. To make sure we are together, we definitely have a strategic advantage with our two bishops: Archbishop Naumann and Archbishop Emeritus Keleher! Further, we will give you trivia game answers and announce the winner on Oct. 20. All proceeds from this event will provide scholarships for children in need! Michael Morrisey is the executive director of the Catholic Education Foundation. You can reach him at (913) 647-0383 or send an email to him at: mmorrisey@archkck.org.

family matters

Mini-retreats offer couples chance to grow their marriage

erpetual motion: It is an idea which seems very attractive.

With one burst of energy, one shove, one kick forward, something continues on indefinitely without any other external force. Wouldn’t this be great if such a principle were possible? Life would be a breeze. We wouldn’t worry about $4 a gallon gasoline. But perpetual motion and perpetual motion devices are impossible because of what I’ll call friction. Something is always there to slow or bring motion to a halt. In marriage, that burst of energy from our love for one another that launches us forth on our wedding day also runs into friction. The friction that slows us down is found in the time and

energy we must devote to our jobs if we want to provide food, shelter and clothing for our family. Our children need our time, attention and love. How many Moms or Dads have driven with a sandwich in one hand for dinner as they struggle to get their children to practices, games or school events? Then, of course, we do tend to get distracted and caught up in some form of entertainment where we find relaxation.

Whew! Are you tired yet? We all need something to keep us living and growing in the love that launched us forth on our wedding day. In the introduction of the Rite of Marriage, couples are told to “nourish” and develop (grow) their marriage by “undivided attention.” In our daily lives of work, bills, children and busyness, the idea of “undivided attention” seems like an impossible demand. When we met, in our courtship and early in our marriage, it was that “undivided” attention that was a natural part of our love for each other. But the “friction” of everyday life can rob us of that attention to one another. So, how can we return to that time of undivided attention? More importantly, how can we continue to live in this love? Over the next 12 months, a miniretreat for married couples, called

“Living in Love,” will be offered at 10 parishes across the archdiocese. This is a two-day retreat that is held at a parish. It requires no stay-over in a motel or retreat center. You will have a chance to focus on what attracted you to one another. You will begin to get in touch with all that you have going for you as a couple and with all the times it has been wonderful in your marriage. You will then look for ways to help you to live like that all the time. Included in this retreat is a romantic dinner on Saturday night. The best surprise of all: It costs only $30 per couple. To register at a parish near you go to the website at: www.archkck.org/faith/ livinginlove. Deacon Tony Zimmerman is the lead archdiocesan consultant for the office of marriage and family life.

inside catholic charities

Agency’s vision based on neighbors helping neighbors

t was not unusual for Ida* to be up at 2 a.m. At 86 years of age, a middle of the night bathroom call was just part of life. She sat on the edge of her bed, the same bed that she and her husband of over 60 years had shared before his death. “Has it really been two years since he passed?” she thought as she wiggled her feet into her slippers. She pulled the walker, cumbersome but necessary, close to the bed and stood up to begin the slow walk down the hall to bathroom. She had made this trip a 1,000 times. But tonight was different. She was more tired than usual and feeling a little lightheaded. Halfway down the hall, her foot

slipped on an old area rug and in a split second she and the walker were tangled up on the floor. Unable to get up, Ida stopped struggling and began to pray the rosary. Across town, the alarm went off in Mary Jo’s* house at 6 a.m. She made a cup of tea and sat at the kitchen table for her devotional time, then fixed a bowl of cereal. Before getting dressed for the day, she picked up the telephone and started dialing. Every morning, Mary Jo, a Friendly Visitor volunteer for

Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas, makes her Ring-a-Day calls. A senior herself, she enjoys the simple task of checking up on others and sharing life stories. The calls have always been enjoyable, but uneventful. This morning would be different. She let the phone ring eight times at Ida’s house before hanging up. She waited two minutes, then called again, knowing that with the walker Ida couldn’t get to the phone quickly. Still no answer. Hanging up again, Mary Jo pulled out her list of emergency contacts — Friendly Visitor volunteers have emergency contact information for the people they call in the Ring-a-Day program — and quickly dialed Ida’s next-door neighbor. He found Ida still on the floor and called 911. After a short hospital stay, Ida is back home and de-

termined as ever to live independently. When asked about her ordeal, she simply replies, “I knew Mary Jo would call and help would come.” At Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas, our vision is that we live in communities where neighbors are helping neighbors. We don’t need a government program. We don’t need to wait for a private foundation to give money. We simply need people who care to care. Who do you know in your neighborhood that would benefit from a daily phone call? How much time would it really cost you? To learn more about the Friendly Visitor program, and other ways to help your neighbors, visit the website at: www.catholiccharitiesks.org. (*Names changed for privacy) Jan Lewis is the executive director of Catholic Charities.

16 local news John and Ellie Behrmann, members of Church of the Nativity in Le a w o o d , will celebrate their 50th wedding anniver sar y anniversaries on Sept. 22. The couple was married at Resurrection Church in St. Louis on Sept. 22, 1962. Their children and their spouses are: Kenneth and Emily Behrmann; and Kathy and Steve Van Lieshout. They also have four grandchildren. After a trip to Yosemite National Park, they will celebrate with a party for friends and family. Cal and Kathy Taylor, members of St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 18 with a Mass at the church. The couple was married on Aug. 18, 1962, at St. Michael Church, Sioux City, Iowa. Their children and their spouses are: Todd and Theresa Taylor; Lisa and David Chamness; Tara Spalding; Mark Taylor; and Erin and Kevin May. They also have eight grandchildren. The couple took a cruise to the Black Sea to celebrate. Dorothy and Tom Guthrie, members of Good Shepherd Parish, Shawnee, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept. 15 with a reception for family and friends, hosted by Leonard and Vickie Licata in Lee’s Summit, Mo. They will receive a marriage blessing at the 8 a.m. Mass on Sept. 16 at Good Shepherd. The couple was married on Sept. 15, 1962, at Christ the King Church, Kansas City, Mo. Their children and their spouses are: Vince and Nadine Guthrie; Bryan and Margaret Guthrie; and George and Kim Guthrie. They also have five grandchildren.

Anniversary policy

The Leaven only prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th anniversary notices. Announcements are due by 5 p.m. eight days (Thursday) before the desired publication date. Announcements must be typed. They are for parishioners of Catholic parishes in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, or for those who have resided in the archdiocese for a significant period of time. Please include the following Information: • The couple’s names; their parish; the date they were married; church and city where they were married; what they are doing to celebrate; date of the celebration; names of children (if desired); number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; photo. Photos that are emailed need to be at least 200 dpi. Mailed photos should be on photo paper and printed at a photo lab. Photos that are printed from home printers do not reproduce well. Send notices to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, attn: anniversaries; or send an email to: Todd@theleaven.com. If you would like your photo returned to you, please include a self-addressed stamped envelope.

THE LEAVEN • september 14, 2012

Trivia time Photos by Joe McSorley The Catholic Education Foundation sponsored a Trivia Night Sept. 7, benefiting the organization’s scholarship program. A total of 112 people attended and raised $3,095. Derek Teeter, chair of the Futures, addresses the participants at Trivia Night. Joining Teeter are Father Michael Hermes, pastor of Holy Name Parish, and Denise Perry, principal of Holy Name School in Kansas City, Kan. CEF Futures is a group of young professionals committed to promoting the foundation. Preschool teacher Angelina Thomas directs, from left, Alyson Worthy, Christian Griffin, Alejandro Rodrigues, Samantha Zamora, Gabriell Lopez and Luke Roseburrough in a song to entertain their Trivia Night guests.

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