09 14 18 Vol. 40 No. 65

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 40, NO. 65 | SEPTEMBER 14, 2018

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE BOLLIG

Sister Mariana Disciple of the Divine Master, PJC, inspects fire damage in the basement of the convent. All the supplies for the order’s ministries, which were stored in the basement, were destroyed. The Fraternity the Poor of Jesus Christ also lost their own food and appliances.

FIRE AND RECOVERY

Brazilian Sisters get help digging out, cleaning up, from fire

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By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Like the other Sisters at the Mission House Our Lady of Guadalupe, Sister Mariana Disciple of the Divine Master, PJC, was sound asleep in the early morning of Aug. 15.

“I heard something far away, and I awoke scared,” she said.

It was the fire alarm, ringing at 12:30 a.m.

At first, she was slightly confused.

Was someone in the chapel?

HONORED

“WE ALSO GO OUT TO THE HOMELESS TWICE A WEEK, AND WE LOST EVERYTHING WE TAKE TO THEM.” The convent of the Fraternity the Poor of Jesus Christ, at 2226 Troup Ave. in Kansas City, Kansas,

Vitae Society names new curriculum after Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann.

Page 3

has a beautiful chapel.

“We use incense,” she said. “Everytime we use incense for adoration and the Mass, [the alarm] goes off. I thought I had to turn it off.”

So, she went downstairs to check the alarm control panel, next to the chapel on the first floor.

“It said: ‘First Floor South,’” she said. She turned it off, but the alarm began to sound again.

“I thought, ‘Something is wrong,’” she said.

She was right. She looked down the first floor hallway and saw hazy smoke. She ran back to the second floor to where the five Poor of Jesus

EVANGELIZE

Our Lady of Unity Parish hosts the first Spanish evangelization conference.

Page 4

Christ Sisters and one visiting Dominican Sister were beginning to stir.

“Fire, fire!” she said. “Call 911!”

They all quickly donned their habits and fled the building. Sister Mariana, curious as to the fire’s location, opened the basement door — and was nearly overwhelmed by a blast of thick, toxic smoke.

Coughing, she closed the door and made her way outside. As she passed the common room, she saw huge flames outside shooting up from below. >> See “SISTERS” on page 7

HELPING HAND

A team of business people helps Holy Name School plan for the future.

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SEPTEMBER 14, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

ARCHBISHOP

2

‘Mama Mary’: A powerful protectress during troubled times

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his past summer, I was returning to Kansas City on Southwest Airlines from the June U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops meeting in south Florida.

I was fortunate to be in the A group and was lined up according to my boarding pass number waiting for the boarding process to begin.

A woman approached, asking me if I was a Catholic priest from Kansas City. I introduced myself as the Archbishop of Kansas City in Kansas and shared with her that I had been attending the USCCB meeting.

The woman lived in Kansas and had been in Florida to assist her mother with the care of her stepfather who was gravely ill. She lamented that her daughter and her son-in-law were attending an evangelical Protestant church.

She shared with me her great devotion for Mary and was upset that her grandchildren were not being taught about Mary, much less encouraged to develop a devotion to Our Blessed Mother.

She shared with me how in both her personal and professional life she sought the intercession of Mary to guide her with important decisions. She proclaimed with gratitude that Mary never failed her. She referred to Our Blessed Mother, with great devotion, as “Mama Mary.”

The woman had a rather commanding voice. At one moment, she inquired of me with the vocal volume that made it impossible for everyone in the A group not to hear: “Why don’t these Protestants love Mary? How can they be so foolish as not to seek

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN Mama Mary’s help?” It seemed all eyes and ears were watching and listening for my reply. I felt like the fate of ecumenical relations with many of my co-passengers depended on my response.

I counseled her: “Mary always leads us to her Son, Jesus. Mama Mary’s greatest desire is for us to come to know and love Jesus.”

I reassured her that at this evangelical church her grandchildren were learning about Jesus and hopefully developing a friendship with Our Lord.

I challenged her that part of her mission as their grandmother was to witness to them how important a spiritual friend Mama Mary was for her. She certainly seemed up to the task.

About this time, the boarding process began.

I told the woman that I would pray for her and her daughter and grandchildren.

With Southwest’s open seating policy, my Marian friend sat right next to me. For the next couple hours, I learned why this woman had such a profound and authentic devotion to Mama Mary.

She had many inspiring and edifying stories of how Mama Mary had

come through for her time and again. During her stay in Florida, Mary had come through big time.

My Marian friend told me that her stepfather was very sick. She and her mother were convinced that he needed to be admitted to a particular care facility. However, their request for him to be admitted had been denied. They were told it would be months before he would be considered for admission.

Her stepfather was due to be discharged from the hospital at 3 p.m. the next day. Her mother could not care for him at their home, so they were scrambling to find an appropriate place to meet the man’s medical needs.

My friend informed her mother and her sister that she was praying to Mama Mary that the door be opened for him to be admitted by 3 p.m. the next day to their preferred treatment center. Meanwhile, they were making arrangements for his admission at another facility.

At precisely 3 p.m. the next day, while leaving the hospital and taking the sick man to the plan B facility, they receive a call informing them that her stepfather had been inexplicably accepted at their preferred treatment center.

My Marian friend was thrilled that her stepfather would receive the care he needs, but even more excited that the timing of her answered prayer made believers of her mother and sister in the power of Mama Mary.

I am edified by the beautiful devotion to Mary that is evident by so many in our archdiocese. I am particularly grateful for those that have consecrated and, in many cases, reconsecrated themselves to Jesus through Mary.

Mary, under the title of the Immaculate Conception, is the primary patroness of our archdiocese. I encourage everyone to join me in invoking the intercession of our Blessed Mother for the healing and renewal of the church during these difficult days.

Let us place ourselves under the protective mantle of Mary during these turbulent times within our church.

On Sunday, Oct. 7, at 2 p.m. at Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish (7023 W. 71st St. in Overland Park) and at 7 p.m. at Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish (3601 S.W. 17th St. in Topeka) there will be a prayer service that will include eucharistic adoration, the public praying of the rosary, and a catechesis

by Mike Scherschligt, applying the messages of Marian apparitions to the events of our day.

These liturgies will be particularly focused on prayers for healing for those who have been wounded by priests or other representatives of the church, as well as for wisdom for the Holy Father, me and my brother bishops, as we strive to take the actions necessary for healing, renewal and reform

Archbishop Naumann Sept. 15 McHenry County prayer breakfast Sept. 16 Pastoral visit — St. Agnes, Roeland Park Baptism of third or more child — Cathedral Sept. 17 “Shepherd’s Voice” recording Donnelly Board Higher Learning Commission meeting Catholic Bar Association Episcopal Advisory Committee conference call CORE priests and seminarians appreciation day — St. Michael the Archangel, Leawood Sept. 18 Quarterly retired priests meeting Administrative Team meeting Sept. 19 Presbyteral Council meeting

within the church.

October 7 is the feast of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary. It was on Oct. 7, 1571, that the Christian fleet, though greatly outnumbered, won an unexpected victory over an Ottoman armada that threatened Italy and Western Europe.

We need to ask Mary to petition her Son to protect the church — not so much from external enemies, but from the internal forces of evil that have far greater capability to weaken and debilitate the church.

If you are not able to

St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center board meeting Sept. 21 Catholic Education Foundation Gaudeamus honorees and School of Excellence breakfast CEF board meeting Sept. 21-24 Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher annual meeting Sept. 24-27 Priest convocation Sept. 27 Bishop Ward Mass and dinner

Archbishop Keleher Sept. 16 Mass — Federal prison camp Sept. 17 CORE priests and seminarians appreciation day — St. Michael the Archangel, Leawood Sept. 23 Mass — Ballyshannon, Ireland

join us for one of these prayer services, I ask you to pray a rosary on Oct. 7 for healing of victims of abuse and renewal within the church.

For those who can, please come on Oct. 7 either to Queen of the Holy Rosary or Most Pure Heart of Mary.

Together, let us implore Mama Mary to give me and my brother bishops the wisdom and courage to take the necessary steps to facilitate healing and renewal within the church.

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SEPTEMBER 14, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

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Talk show host addresses pro-life organization

By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

O

VERLAND PARK — Every 10 minutes, a Vitae Foundation ad helps an abortion-determined woman.

That was the statistic Anne Carmichael, senior market director for the Vitae Foundation, shared at the foundation’s annual Kansas City event.

Held Sept. 7 at the Overland Park Convention Center, the evening featured Lamar Hunt Jr. as master of ceremonies, choral selections by the St. Michael Schola Cantorum and recognition of Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann (see sidebar).

Approximately 600 people attended the fundraiser aimed at helping the foundation accomplish its mission of “creating a culture of life by using research-based messaging and cutting-edge media to inform women facing an untimely pregnancy about local pregnancy help centers; educating the public about the value and sanctity of human life; and restoring the value of life as a core belief in America.”

Founded in Jefferson City, Missouri, in 1992, the national organization is now in 10 media markets. In her remarks, Carmichael said that in the early days, the foundation worked to get ads out to women facing unexpected pregnancies. Today, women often find the ads themselves.

In turn, they are increasingly finding pregnancy help centers. To put it in perspective, she said, even though abortion providers spend $190 million in marketing abortion, providers admit pregnancy resource centers outperform them 5 to 1.

In her keynote address, Elisabeth Hasselbeck, a co-host of “The View” from 2003-2013, shared her love of Vitae Foundation’s pro-life ministry.

“I really believe there are three ways Vitae is working to make a big difference and has been for many, many years and will continue to do so with our help,” she said.

O

LEAVEN PHOTO BY MARC ANDERSON

Elisabeth Hasselbeck, a co-host of “The View” from 2003-2013, shared her love of Vitae Foundation’s pro-life ministry at the foundation’s annual Kansas City event Sept. 7 at the Overland Park Convention Center.

The three ways, Hasselbeck noted, are leaning in, holding each other up and slinging big things.

“I was able to speak life and truth to over one million viewers every 15 minutes [on ‘The View’]” she said. “That’s a lot of impact.”

She relied heavily, she said, on the Vitae Foundation to provide her with the research and statistics she needed.

“I could lean into the conversation with information, real information,” she said.

Some 82 percent of women, for example, who made the decision to abort would have chosen life if just one person would have encouraged them, she continued.

In addition to leaning in with real, factual information, Hasselbeck said, those

involved in pro-life ministry need to help hold up each other’s arms.

When weighted down with fatigue, those involved with the Vitae Foundation should recall the story of Moses found in Ex 17:11-12. The passage describes how as long as Moses held up his arms in prayer, the Israelites prevailed, but when Moses let his arms down, the Israelites struggled.

So, Aaron and Hur supported the hands of Moses and stood on either side of him.

“We’re holding each other’s arms up in the task,” Hasselbeck said.

Finally, she recalled how a friend’s visit, complete with an unexpected gift of slingshots for her children, offered a unique perspective on pro-life ministry.

“All [my friend] kept saying was that

we’re meant to sling big things,” she said as her children put marshmallows, oranges and apples in their slingshots.

Nowadays, Hasselbeck keeps a slingshot with her whenever she is about to embark on something big. Looking out at the crowd, she asked everyone to stand up, lean in toward each other and lift up the arms of those sitting on either side.

As the crowd followed her instructions, she said, “What I see from here are a bunch of pretty influential, impactful, excellent slingshots.”

Slinging something really big, she told the crowd, requires stretching that band.

“The more we stretch in faith and in trust and in giving and in communicating this message of the culture of life,” she said, “the farther that rock messaging goes.”

Vitae Foundation honors archbishop in unique way

VERLAND PARK — In what is a first for the Vitae Foundation, Debbie Stokes, its president, announced its first research-based curriculum during its annual Kansas City event held at the Overland Park Convention Center.

Stokes said the curriculum would be named in honor of the archbishop and called The Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann Curriculum to Advance the Culture of Life.

“Archbishop Naumann has a vision, a vision he shared with Carl Landwehr 30 years ago, and a vision that he still works for today — a vision of a culture that respects every life that God sends into the world,” said Stokes. “His vision resulted in today what is the Vitae Foundation and, led by [the] archbishop’s example, we

LEAVEN PHOTO BY MARC ANDERSON

Debbie Stokes, right, president of the Vitae Foundation, announced that its first research-based curriculum would be named The Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann Curriculum to Advance the Culture of Life. are working tirelessly to build a culture of life.”

“To get us closer to achieve

President Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)

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

Archbishop Naumann’s vision,” she continued, “we want to combat the culture of death,

giving our children the tools to address the pro-death rhetoric that they encounter every day.”

The curriculum will be available to archdiocesan schools during the 2019-20 academic year and will break down the foundation’s research findings into age-appropriate categories “to empower our youth to be messengers for a culture of life, to give them the tools to articulate their position in a way that will impact others, saving lives and families instead of polarizing them forever.”

“I never thought I’d have a curriculum named after me,” said Archbishop Naumann in accepting the honor. “My mother would be proud.”

Elsewhere in his remarks, he reflected on the organization’s history — it was founded in 1992 — and said the organization’s

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

Reporter Olivia Martin olivia.martin@theleaven.org

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org

Advertising Coordinator Beth Blankenship beth.blankenship@theleaven.org

Social Media Editor Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

early leaders “dreamed about a pro-life educational effort like none that had ever been attempted before.”

“Vitae has succeeded beyond what certainly I could have imagined,” said Archbishop Naumann.

The archbishop said the organization’s success came as the result of God’s blessings and the dedication of all involved with the foundation, including its staff, volunteers and donors.

In closing, the archbishop thanked all those in attendance for their support and hoped they went “home tonight and feel really good about your investment and know that there are children alive, parents spared the agony and aftermath of abortion, because of your generosity, your commitment.”

Published weekly September through May, excepting the Friday the week after Thanksgiving, and the Friday after Christmas; biweekly June through August. Address communications to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Phone: (913) 721-1570; fax: (913) 721-5276; or e-mail at: sub@theleaven.com. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. For change of address, provide old and new address and parish. Subscriptions $21/year. Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.

SEPTEMBER 14, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

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WyCo parish hosts first-ever Spanish evangelization conference

By Olivia Martin olivia.martin@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — It doesn’t take a sex abuse crisis for Catholics to leave the practice of their faith.

At a Spanish-language conference held Aug. 18-19 and sponsored by Our Lady of Unity Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, participants learned that many Hispanic Catholics have left the church over the last 40 years.

Some leave because they consider the church to be out of touch with reality.

Others because the doctrine is too strict. Or because the pews are uncomfortable.

“Each of these reasons is true,” said Dr. José Luis Perez Guadalupe, a sociologist and former interior minister of Peru, “but that’s not the [most fundamental] reason.”

Perez was one of the keynote speakers at the conference, which was held at St. Patrick Parish center in Kansas City, Kansas, and was the first Spanish-language evangelization program of its kind in the archdiocese.

The number one reason that Hispanics have left the Catholic Church?

They did not find what they were looking for, said Perez.

The statistics Perez’s presentation — titled “Why Do Catholics Leave the Church?” — couldn’t have come at a more crucial time.

He has conducted primary sociological research about the changing religious climate in Peru and across South America, Central America and the United States over decades.

And his research reflects the shift in numbers belonging to specific religious traditions, such as Catholicism and evangelical Protestants, as well as those who profess no religion and atheists. He also collected people’s reasons for leaving Catholicism.

The results were startling.

Since the 1970s, nearly every religious group in Latin America and the U.S. has decreased — except for evangelical Protestantism and “nones,” those who profess no religion.

And since 2003 in the U.S., the number of evangelicals and “nones” has grown while the number of Catholics

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Dr. José Luis Perez Guadalupe smiles while welcoming those present to Our Lady of Unity Parish’s first Spanish evangelization conference. Perez shared his research on why Hispanic Catholics leave the church. has remained the same.

“Four of the six most Catholic countries in the world are in [the Americas],” said Perez. These include Brazil, Mexico, the U.S. and Colombia.

Of all of the Hispanics in the U.S., 55 percent are Catholics, 22 percent are Protestant and 18 percent profess no religious affiliation.

“Almost one of every five Hispanics no longer has a religious affiliation,” said Perez. “Latin America is ceasing to be Catholic.”

His research shows that about 92 percent of Catholics who left the church said they wouldn’t have left if they’d have found what they were looking for.

“This is a very grave situation for us,” said Perez, “[because] our church isn’t being attractive.”

Furthermore, the American church cannot afford to lose people, especially Hispanics and Latinos.

“More than 50 percent of Catholics in this country are Hispanic,” said Perez.

“God is telling us it’s our turn as Catholic Hispanics in this country,” he con-

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tinued. “This is why Hispanic pastoral ministry is becoming more and more important.”

What the parish can do Araceli Dueñas, a parishioner of Our Lady of Unity, was taken aback by Perez’s presentation.

“It was eye-opening,” she said. “We think that people don’t go to church just because they don’t want to — this is a time for us to change.”

Karla Morales, also an Our Lady of Unity parishioner, said that, over the years, she has noticed a fear of change within the church and found the conference helpful and informative in moving out of that fear.

“My belief in my faith has not changed,” said Morales, “but the Catholic Church must make changes.”

“If we in our parish change our attitude or our welcoming words just a little bit,” said Dueñas, “that would be an awesome starting place.”

To stop losing Catholics at such a high rate, Perez explained that each person needs to have the three C’s: converted, convinced and committed.

“It’s one thing to be converted and convinced,” he said, “but if we don’t have committed Catholics, we cannot go on.”

“Sometimes we are so close- minded that we don’t want to commit,” said Dueñas, “but [if we do], that can give new people the opportunity to be involved in the parish.”

The conference also included a presentation on emotional intelligence by Jose Grau, a professor and member of the Pastoral Leadership Institute at the University of St. Mary of the Lake in Mundelein, Illinois.

It concluded with a concert by Tony Melendez, the world-renowned guitarist born without arms, who has performed multiple times for Pope John Paul II and now performs frequently on behalf of pro-life causes.

SEPTEMBER 14, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

5

Dorothy Day exhibit highlights paradoxical ‘saint of our times’

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By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — She died 38 years ago, but Dorothy Day still fascinates millions of Catholics with the witness of her life and clarion call for holiness and justice.

Now, thanks to a traveling exhibit sponsored by local members of the Communion and Liberation movement, many will have the opportunity to learn about this faithful Catholic who defies easy catego“A Catholic Paradox: rization.

The Life and Words The exof Dorothy Day” will hibit opened be presented at two in New York locations: City in January during • From 7-9 p.m. on CommuSept. 20 at St. Minion and chael the Archangel Liberation’s Parish, 14251 Nall annual New Ave., Leawood York Encounter.

It • From 7-9 p.m. on will also go Sept 21 at the St. to WashingLawrence Cathoton D.C. and lic Campus Center, other cities.

1631 Crescent Rd., Before Lawrence she died at age 83 in 1980, many considered Day a “living saint.”

And though the church has opened the cause for Day’s possible canonization — and as a result, she is now referred to with the title of servant of God — it didn’t start out that way.

Day was a journalist and social activist — even a political radical. In the mid-1920s, she experienced a profound conversion and became a devout Catholic.

Day united her faith with her passion for justice to the poor and marginalized of society and, with Peter Maurin, founded the Catholic Worker Movement.

“Dorothy Day’s life is often misunderstood,” said Marina Carrizosa-

“DOROTHY WAS A WOMAN OF FAITH, PRAYER AND OBEDIENCE TO THE CHURCH. SHE WAS A HEROIC WITNESS TO CHRIST AND ALL THE POLARIZATIONS AND PARADOXES THAT ARE SO HUMAN.”

Exhibition locations

CNS PHOTO/COURTESY MILWAUKEE JOURNAL

Dorothy Day, co-founder of the Catholic Worker Movement, is pictured in an undated photo. Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan of New York has opened the canonical inquiry on the life of the social justice advocate, the archdiocese announced April 19.

Ramos, a member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood and of Communion and Liberation.

“She was a social activist, a mother, a writer, and a woman of deep prayer,” she said. “She participated in labor strikes, protested wars and served jail

time on multiple occasions for civil disobedience.”

All these things were animated and informed, however, by Day’s Catholic faith.

“Dorothy was a woman of faith, prayer and obedience to the church,”

said Carrizosa-Ramos. “She was a heroic witness to Christ and all the polarizations and paradoxes that are so human.”

Day is sometimes considered paradoxical because she transcended neat categorizations of faith and ideologies, displaying all-too-human contradictions.

This exhibit is not a bunch of “just random panels full of facts,” said CarrizosaRamos.

Rather, it will be like Day herself — a narrative that unfolds with the impossible unity that Christ makes in our lives.

The first section will be background about Day. The second section will present the misunderstood paradoxes of her life.

There will be a short video presentation by Tom Cornell, associate editor of The Catholic Worker newspaper, and Marcie Stokman, founder of WellRead Mom, will give an introductory talk about Day. The event is free and no registration is required, but donations are welcome to cover the cost of printing materials.

For information about the exhibit, contact Carrizosa-Ramos by email at: mcarrizosaramos@gmail.com.

For more about the Communion and Liberation movement, visit the website at: english.clonline.org.

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SEPTEMBER 14, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS Cindy (Harrington) and Rich Dickason, members of St Benedict Parish, Atchison, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 24. The couple was married on Aug. 24, 1968, at St. John the Evangelist Church, Kansas City, Kansas, by Father Robert Pflumm. Their children are: Richard Dickason Jr. (deceased), Angie Pugh, Sarah Contreras and Chris Dickason. They also have nine grandchildren.

Phillip and Barbara (Miller) Pearce, members of Sacred H e a r t Parish, Ottawa, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with an Alaskan cruise with their children and their families. Their children are: Dennis Pearce, Patricia Davis and Thomas Pearce.

They also have seven grandchildren. The couple was married on Aug. 31, 1968, at Assumption Church, Edgerton, by Father Thomas Kearns.

Edwin and Loretta Rahe, members of Christ the King Parish, To p e k a , will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept.

14. The couple was married in 1968 at Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish, Topeka,

by Father John Quinlan. Their children are: Angela Burkett, Topeka; Kerrie Howard, Hiawatha; Katina Rahe, Prairie Village; and Rachel Rahe, Prairie Village. They have four grandsons and a great granddaughter. The family recently celebrated with a vacation touring several national parks.

Refugio “Ruff” and Gertrude (Hurla) Garcia, m e m b e rs of Sacred H e a r t Parish, Paxico, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept. 14. The couple was married on Sept. 14, 1968, at Sacred Heart Church, Paxico. Their children are: Sarah Ann Tschauder, Monica Gertrude Garcia, Carlos Antonio Garcia, Yolanda Marie Ronnau, Alicia Ann Stuewe, Rebeca Victoria Garcia and Veronica Ann Garcia (deceased). They also have 22 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Ted and Arlene (Studinski) Horning, members of St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept. 14.

The couple was married on Sept.

14, 1968, at St. Agnes Church, Roeland Park.

They have one son, Charles.

ANNIVERSARY submissions submissions ANNIVERSARY POLICY: The Leaven prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th anniversary notices. They are for parishioners in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas DEADLINE: eight days before the desired publication date.

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES: • Announcements must be typed.

• Emailed photos need to be 200 dpi.

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

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

Creating your family identity

Help celebrate Constitution Week The Kansas Marais des Cygnes chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution is asking families to share the U.S. Constitution during Constitution Week, Sept. 17-23.

The group is asking families to specifically share the preamble of the Constitution, which reads: “We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.”

Additionally, the group is asking parishes to ring their bells at 3 p.m. on Sept. 17.

Correction The Aug. 31 issue of The Leaven mistakenly identified the photographer of the photo of Kelli Mather, the new chief operating officer of El Centro in Kansas City, Kansas (page 7). Matt McCabe took the photo. The Leaven regrets the error.

TOOLS FOR FAMILIES

Growing as Disciples of Jesus

Family meal time

Family play time

Family prayer time

A family’s identity and closeness can be fostered early on in different ways. One large family gathers in the family home on Sunday afternoon for spaghetti or to share a big pot of soup.

Now, instead of Mom or Dad preparing the meal, the children carry on the tradition.

Great times in family life often occur at family meals. What might work for you?

• a Sunday afternoon meal with time for a family walk or a game of catch or shooting hoops in the driveway • Saturday morning breakfast as a family (creating funny-face pancakes is a blast) • inviting all family members to help with the meal as they are able

Leave technology out of this family exercise! Children enjoy playing games. For those who are grandparents, this is a great way to be present to your grandchildren.

• Card games like Go Fish, Slap the Jacks, UNO or the floor games like Twister can provide a lot of laughter and fun.

• Checker rugs or just checker boards are also fun.

Enjoy the laughter and joy-filled eyes and faces! Seize these moments of closeness while you can.

The family is the school of prayer. There are times every day where inviting God into our daily life can be modeled.

• Morning prayer: Take a moment to sign the cross on your child’s or spouse’s forehead asking God to bless their day.

• Daytime prayer: Set your watch or calendar to remind you to stop and say a little prayer for your loved ones.

• Pray before dinner for family or friends who need God’s blessings. Lift up those in need of food or shelter.

• Choose one night each week for a family rosary.

• Bedtime: Pray for a restful night for each family member. Look into their eyes and tell them one thing that you love about them.

• Thank God for the gift of each family member that God has placed in your life.

Good family life doesn’t just happen. It takes intentionality. It will also provide a sense of stability as your family moves through the different times of life.

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1844 Minnesota Ave. Kansas City, Kansas 913-371-7000 “Dignified and Affordable Without Compromise”

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6

SEPTEMBER 14, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

7

Sisters surprised by rapid response >> Continued from page 1

It didn’t take long

Only in America

Except for Sister Magdalena, all the Sisters of the Fraternity the Poor of While waiting on their neighbor’s Jesus Christ are from Brazil or Paralawn, the first three Kansas City, Kansas guay. The fire was a new experience — Fire Department trucks rolled up within and not just because they’d never expethree minutes after the Sisters fled the rienced a house fire. convent.

The first surprise was the rapid reThen, more trucks arrived . . . and sponse of the fire department, with lots more trucks. The firefighters vigorously of equipment and firefighters. Where attacked the blaze and soon had it sub- the Sisters come from, emergency serdued. They even rescued the Sisters’ cat vices are slower.

Missy, who in a panic ran into the baseThe second surprise was insurance. ment.

Generally, people in the Sisters’ home counOnce they were certain it was safe, tries don’t have insurance to aid recovery. the firefighters allowed the Sisters back And the third surprise was the cominside. mando-like response by volunteer There, they opened all the windows Knights of Columbus and the disaster reon the second floor to air out the build- covery firm SERVPRO® of Leavenworth ing and tried to get at least a bit of fitful, and NW Wyandotte County. Professionsmoky rest before they began the dread- al disaster recovery firms do not exist ful task of recovery. where the Sisters come from.

With daybreak, the Sisters headed “Padre Gilson (the order’s founder) for the basement, which contained the called me,” said Sister Magdalena, and laundry room and said, ‘So, you’ve got served as the order’s a whole lot of people To contribute to the Fraterstorage space. There, together to clean up?’ nity the Poor of Jesus Christ, they kept much of “And I said, ‘No, make checks out to “The Fraterwhat they needed for we have insurance, nity the Poor of Jesus Christ,” their ministries to the and there are all and mail them to the convent at neighborhood poor these people and a 2226 Troup Ave., Kansas City, KS and homeless, as well company coming to 66104. as their own food. do the cleaning.’

Everything in the “He couldn’t bebasement was destroyed. Black soot lieve it. He said, ‘Only in the United coated everything, and the heat melted States!’” many of the supplies.

Volunteer Knights had been doing The source of the fire was an over- handyman work at the convent and, heated ballast (current regulator) in when one showed up that morning, an overhead florescent light, said Leon he quickly made some calls to brother Roberts, archdiocesan consultant for Knights. Sister Magdalena called others. construction and real estate. It melted SERVPRO® did the lion’s share, but and sparked a fire on some plastic and Knights from Holy Trinity Parish in clothes below.

Lenexa, Ascension in Overland Park, The fire caused about $80,000 worth and St. John Paul II Parish in Olathe of damage. An adjuster from Catholic joined in the cleanup of the basement.

Mutual Group was on the scene within Dave Leiker, a member of Holy Trin12 hours and a claim has been filed. ity and president of the Charities Aid “Our basement is used as a food pantry Foundation of the Knights of Columbus, for families we help,” said Sister Magdalena also helped. of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the custodian “Through the Knights’ emergency — or superior — of the community. disaster aid program, we’re assisting “We also go out to the homeless twice with food and clothing, to give them a week, and we lost everything we take money to replace those things,” he said. to them — clothes, personal hygiene “I saw it on the news [that morning],” products,” she continued. “We lost a said Paul Goode, sales representative freezer and refrigerator, coolers and with SERVPRO®. “I said to myself, ‘My plastic cups. “We lost the equipment we brothers in Christ need help,’ so I got in use to make soup.” my car and came here.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE FRATERNITY THE POOR OF JESUS CHRIST

Sister Mariana looks at the damage through the convent’s basement windows. Although the flames and smoke shot out of the windows, the quick response by the Kansas City, Kansas Fire Department saved the building. The most severe damage was confined to the basement.

Goode is a Knight of Columbus and a member of Immaculate Conception Parish in Louisburg; Dan Thorman, the owner of the company, is a Knight as well and a member of St. Peter Parish in Kansas City, Missouri.

“Once we clean the structure, we’ll come in and [further] assess what needs to be removed,” said Goode. “We’ve done preliminary demolition, and we’ll do a deep clean and assess what needs to be reconstructed.”

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EYES ON TO

Team of business people helps Holy Name School in Kansas City, Kansas, prepare for the future

By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — “Holy Name could not have made the progress we have without the team,” said Holy Name of Jesus principal Amanda Vega.

The “team” Vega refers to is a group of 12 business people with different backgrounds, expertise, skills and connections.

They meet once a month to support Vega and Holy Name pastor Father Anthony Ouellette with advice concerning the business operations of the school.

The team is a result of Holy Name’s involvement in the archdiocese’s School Advancement Program, a pilot initiative designed to sustain Catholic schools, especially in underserved areas.

Because of the business team approach, Holy Name is starting this school year ahead of the game and looking to a bright future.

“Having a group of professional people who have worked in various fields, who are intelligent, gifted and have a passion and desire to help the school, has just been wonderful in that sense of feeling supported,” said Father Ouellette.

With the help of the business team, the principal and pastor are able to concentrate more on the areas of their own expertise — the academic enrichment and faith formation of the students.

For their part, team members are grateful to be part of this positive approach to the future of Catholic education.

“Amanda’s a great principal,” said Henning. “But it’s nice to have a third party to kind of objectively evaluate your processes, what you’re doing, help you identify your goals, and then put steps in place to just kind of incrementally move toward the goal.

“And that’s what this team is doing.”

Road to sustainability

The School Advancement Program, launched in the archdiocese some 18 months ago, gives business leaders an opportunity to help Catholic schools become self-sustaining, especially those “Educators everywhere wear many in which many students qualify for the hats,” said Vega. “But this is especially federal free-and-reduced lunch program true in Catholic schools.

“I’ve seen the benefit my children have “It would be impossible for me, as received from Catholic education,” said the principal, to be Apprill. “I certainan expert in finance, ly would not want marketing, fundraisthe availability of ing, facilities, enrollCatholic educament, recruitment tion to be limited — in general, the varonly to those who “I’VE SEEN THE ious aspects of orgacould afford it.” nizational capacity.”

With his backBENEFIT MY CHILDREN That’s where the ground in construction and business team comes HAVE RECEIVED FROM engineering, Apin.

CATHOLIC EDUCATION. I prill has primarily The co-facilitators worked with the of the team, Hamp CERTAINLY WOULD NOT school’s facilities, Henning and Justin Apprill, are both padeveloping a plan WANT THE AVAILABILITY rishioners of Curé prioritizing poof Ars Church in tential capital imOF CATHOLIC EDUCATION Leawood, the sister provements.

TO BE LIMITED ONLY parish to Holy Name.

“The experHenning, who works tise he brings to TO THOSE WHO COULD looking at this in investment and fiolder building on nancial planning, and AFFORD IT.” [Southwest] BouApprill, an engineer levard,” said Henand president of a ning, “the work mechanical construche and his team have done, the people tion company, understand exactly what he’s brought in — all gratis — is unbeVega is talking about.

“After she’s been the principal, the lievable.” teacher, the social worker, the counselTeam members come from parishes or,” said Henning, “all the hats that the throughout the archdiocese, including principal at one of these schools has to two from Holy Name, and their areas wear — to tell her now you’ve also got of expertise range from negotiating to figure out how to make this thing op- better phone plans and long-range erate more smoothly from a business strategic planning, to marketing and point of view [is] not feasible. It’s not fundraising. fair.”

“The support of the business team And so, the business team comes togoes beyond expert advice and techgether with Vega and Father Ouellette to nical guidance,” said Vega. “They have consult, analyze and advise in those areas. taken the time to listen and to really

Advice from the experts

“

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Father Anthony Ouellette enjoys a laugh with seventh-graders Itzel Chavez, left, and Yasmine Caro during lunch. learn our school.

“I know they care about the students and staff as people, not numbers.”

Once the business team was established, fundraising became a primary goal and the team helped establish a new event last January that raised more than $70,000 for the school.

“One of my happiest moments was at that event,” said Henning. “I saw the

principal when it was announced, at that point, that we raised 60-something thousand — she couldn’t believe it.

“At Holy Name, that’s a game changer.”

Eyes to the future As pilot schools in the School Ad-

OMORROW Advancement program helps schools become self-sustaining

T

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Holy Name principal Amanda Vega talks with third-grader Laila Bernal. A team of business people is helping guide Holy Name with the school’s business operations. vancement Program experience success, it’s hoped the program may be expanded to help sustain other schools.

But each school will need an individual, specialized approach and that, said Henning, is exciting.

“I think this idea definitely works and would work anywhere,” he said.

“The thing that should energize people who want to get involved is the fact that

the issues are different at each school — and they’re the same.

“Having people come in and help with the processes and prioritizing problems and that kind of thing is universal, but the issues are going to be different everywhere — that’s what’s so exciting.”

As the business team at Holy Name continues to help prioritize needs, craft

he School Advancement Program was developed in response to the current landscape of Catholic education in which enrollment is on the decline and costs continue to rise, especially in rural and urban areas.

Across the country, many dioceses are addressing the problem by closing and consolidating schools, or setting up regional structures with more of a publicschool governance model.

The experience of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas indicates that consolidating schools doesn’t necessarily solve the problems that consolidation was designed to solve.

“The schools still have concerns about having adequate financial resources,” said Dr. Kathy O’Hara, superintendent of archdiocesan schools. “And [consolidation] also hasn’t solved the concerns about enrollment.”

Often when schools are consolidated, it’s difficult to maintain the parish relationship, particularly if a school is located on the grounds of one parish versus another.

And so, for some time now, the archdiocese has encouraged schools to come up with strategic development plans that help them become more self-sustaining.

That need became a plan two years ago when the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops sponsored a session on these very topics, hosted by the Notre Dame Alliance for Catholic Education.

O’Hara, who attended the conference, said a presentation on a team concept started her thinking.

“They were helping the local principal and pastor create a team of people who could help with the business side of the operations and also with leadership development,” she said.

“They were just in their initial stages of doing that,” she added, “but they were optimistic that it was having a positive effect. “ O’Hara brought the idea to Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann and Michael and Patty Morrisey, the former executive director and former development director of the Catholic Education Foundation.

The concept was appealing because it preserved all of the good things about parish-based elementary schools that have been the history of the church.

That concept, tailored to the needs of the archdiocese, has now been piloted in several schools under the name School Advancement Program.

It is coordinated by the Morriseys in collaboration with Archbishop Naumann and O’Hara and is comprised of three major components: • board/council development

strategic plans and improve business practices, the next goal is to increase enrollment.

“We want to make Holy Name a great school, a safe place where people can send their kids to get a good education, learn the faith and strengthen their family,” said Henning.

Father Ouellette agreed.

“It’s very difficult to gauge success if

• fundraising • enrollment/marketing In several of the pilot schools, the Morriseys work directly with the school leadership on these components. In other schools, they have facilitated the development of a business-team approach.

“We kind of went out on a limb and recommitted to maintaining single-parish elementary schools by providing a process for helping them with the areas in which they need support,” said O’Hara.

“In addition to individuals helping under-resourced schools by providing monetary assistance,” said Michael Morrisey, “the business team approach would assist schools by providing sound business principles infused into school processes and tied to their strategic plan with the thought of long-term self-sustainability.”

“The business teams aren’t hands-on doers for the most part,” added O’Hara.

“It’s them helping the principal and the pastor set up the infrastructure that’s needed to maximize resources and help facilitate the school’s operating smoothly on the business side.”

In that way, the principal and pastor will be more available to concentrate on the mission of the school to achieve excellence in academics and faith formation.

“The business team drills down to all areas of the school’s operation, including finances/accounting, general processes, facilities, fundraising, social media, marketing, student retention, enrollment, strategic planning, etc.,” said Morrisey.

“Each of the schools we are working with is in a different place from a progress standpoint.

“That being said, we are seeing progress with every school and are excited about possible future outcomes.”

The program is still in its infancy, and the key to success will be sustaining this approach by developing long-term relationships with business team members who may be external to the school community but have a heart for serving that community.

Success, said Morrisey requires a paradigm shift by school leadership “with the understanding that a discipline change in the way we do school business today is imperative if sustainability is going to happen.”

The school office is optimistic the School Advancement Program can expand to help many archdiocesan schools in the future.

“We’re hopeful,” said O’Hara. “We’re praying that the Holy Spirit guides us and we feel like we are on the right track, but we’re going to keep praying and listening and adjusting as needed.”

you’re talking about a child,” he said.

“But I hope the children that graduate from our school encounter Jesus Christ,” he continued, “that they have a place where they receive formation and education.

“And that they are able to respond to what God asks them to do in their life.”

SEPTEMBER 14, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CLASSIFIEDS

EMPLOYMENT Positions open - Cashiers, stockers and warehouse needed. Range of pay is $8 - 12 per hour. Weekday and weekend hours, no nights. Apply in person at Smoke ’n’ Fire, 8030 W. 151st St., Overland Park, KS 66223.

Drivers - Ready for the summers off? Join our school transportation division and live like a kid again! Our drivers have the opportunity to serve our community and still get those precious summer breaks. Assisted Transportation seeks caring and reliable drivers to transport K - 12 students in Johnson and Wyandotte counties in our minivans. CDL not required. $12 per hour. Retirees encouraged to apply. Learn more or apply online at: assistedtransportation.com or call (913) 262-5190 for more information. EOE. Director of the diocesan office of evangelization - The Catholic Diocese of Wichita is seeking an exceptional individual to serve as our full-time director, Office of Evangelization. This is a newly created position that will support Bishop Kemme’s pastoral plan and respond to Pope Francis’ call for Catholics to become missionary disciples. This individual will provide resources, training and formation opportunities for pastors, parishes and diocesan offices. This will involve assessment of evangelization models currently in use in parishes, formation of the Catholic faithful in evangelization methods and parish missions with a focus on evangelization.

It is expected that candidates will have the following qualifications: practicing Catholic in good standing and an active and faithful steward in one’s parish; enthusiastic, engaging and energetic promoter of evangelization; experience working effectively with pastors in their unique parish situations; proper theological and pedagogical training or proven skills; bachelor’s degree in theology, catechesis or evangelization required; equivalent work experience in evangelization, mission or catechesis would be considered (master’s degree preferred); proven administrative skills; experience in interpersonal relations, conflict resolution, collaborative management style and budget preparation; ability to express ideas clearly in both written and verbal communications; and ability to travel within the diocese as needed. Submit cover letter and resume with references and salary requirements to: powell@catholicdioceseofwichita.org. Application deadline in on or before noon Sept. 25.

Assistant organist/chorale accompanist - Holy Trinity Parish, 9150 Pflumm Rd., Lenexa, is seeking a part-time, salaried organist to accompany the Holy Trinity Chorale. Responsibilities include: full service-playing; weekly rehearsals; three Masses per month; and special services from mid-August to mid-June. Salary commensurate with qualifications, plus demonstrated proficiencies in playing and common practices in organ registration and technique. Additional pay for playing two to five more Masses per month with a cantor.

Go to the website at: www.htlenexa.org/holytrinity-music for a full job description. Contact Dr. Cholë Stodt, director of music, at: cstodt@htlenexa.org.

Victim assistance coordinator - The office of child and youth protection (OCYP) for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking an individual to fill a part-time position, victim assistance coordinator. This position is responsible for providing support to and identifying resources for victims and their families in cases of abuse by clergy or other archdiocesan personnel. This individual will manage treatment referrals and resources for individuals and families affected and foster reconciliation between the church and these individuals. In their role as a staff member of the OCYP, this position works closely with the director of the OCYP, the vicar for clergy and the report investigator. Minimum qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in social work or a closely related field, and/or experience related to victim support; intermediate competency in MS Office Suite; and must be a practicing Catholic in good standing. A complete job description, application and benefits information are available on the archdiocese’s website at: www.archkck.org/jobs.

Interested individuals should mail cover letter, resume and application to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, Victim Assistance Coordinator, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, or send via email to: jobs@archkck.org. Position open until filled.

Executive director - Wyandotte Pregnancy Clinic is a faithbased nonprofit organization serving women and families facing unplanned pregnancies with Christ-like compassion.

We are looking for an executive director at our Wyandotte location. The candidate should have strong leadership and supervisory skills; be flexible and able to work in a constantly evolving work environment; be comfortable collaborating with a wide range of agencies, churches and organizations; have excellent writing and communication skills; familiarity with QuickBooks, databases and MS Office products. Will be responsible for growing donor base and event planning.

Being bilingual is a plus. Reports to governing board. Send resume to Donna Kelsey at: dkelsey@wpcnetwork.org. Our client website is: www.wyandottepregnancyclinic.org; our donor website is: www.BabiesAtRisk.org; our Mobile Pregnancy Clinic is: www.mobilepregnancyclinic.org. For more information, call Donna at (913) 904-4050.

Evening facility supervisor - St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood, has an immediate opening for a full-time facility assistant for the evening shift. Hours vary occasionally, but will generally be M – F, 1 – 9:30 p.m. Responsibilities include: monitoring building use; setups for meetings; janitorial duties; routine maintenance projects; and securing all buildings at the end of the evening. This position is eligible for the archdiocesan benefits package, and compensation will be commensurate with experience. Go to the parish website at: www.stmichaelcp.org/employment-opportunities for complete details.

Extended day coordinator - This position provides supervision for elementary school students outside of their regular school hours. This would include planning activities and coordinating programs that currently exist. The position is full time with benefits. If interested, call Ms. Theresa at (913) 248-4589 to set up an interview.

Sonographer - Wyandotte Pregnancy Clinic is a faithbased nonprofit organization serving women and families facing unplanned pregnancies with Christ-like compassion. We have an immediate opening for a sonographer to perform limited (not diagnostic) sonograms. That person could also serve at our new Olathe location. RDMS and nurse-sonographers who have been trained on ultrasound should apply. Send resumes to Donna Kelsey at: dkelsey@ wpcnetwork.org or call (913) 904-4050.

Lay counselor - Olathe Pregnancy Clinic will open in October. We will serve women and families facing unplanned pregnancies with Christ-like compassion. We have an immediate opening for a full-time bilingual lay counselor. Qualified applicants need to be bilingual in Spanish and English; be a faithful practicing Christian; possess strong pro-life convictions; and have a compassionate heart. Training will be provided. Send resumes to Donna Kelsey at: dkelsey@wpc network.org or call (913) 904-4050.

Infant and toddler teacher - This is a full-time position with benefits. Curriculum is in place as a guide for activities.

If interested, call Ms. Theresa at (913) 248-4589 to set up an interview.

Administrative assistant - This position will provide contract administration and general office management support to the construction management, building commission, and facilities and real estate management offices in the chancery. This is a part-time position based on a schedule of 24 hours per week and is classified as nonexempt.

To apply, go online to: careers.hireology.com/ thecatholic dioceseofkansascitystjoseph, scroll down and click on “Administrative assistant.”

Associate director, catechesis and faith formation - This position provides catechetical and discipleship leader training and mentoring services that equip parishes to evangelize and form parishioners and increase ministerial leadership capacity. The diocese offers a comprehensive benefits program, vacation and sick leave plus paid holidays. To apply, go online to: http://kcsjcatholic.org/ and click on “Get started,” scroll down and click the sentence “Click here to view and apply for current openings.” This job is on the second page of the job listings.

Bus driver needed - The Goddard School, Olathe (northwest), is accepting applications for a part-time before/after school care BUS DRIVER. Applicant must be professional, mature, responsible and punctual. Applicant must have a clean driving record and enjoy working with young children. Driver will be responsible for transporting school-age children to/from our facility each morning and afternoon to several local elementary schools. May consider a different driver for a.m. and p.m., if necessary. Great position for a retired “grandma/grandpa.” Minimum qualifications a requirements: Must be at least 21 years old; have a valid Kansas driver’s license without indication of a criminal recored; a clear background check; no driving-related convictions or citations in the last three years; be familiar with the area; be organized, punctual and a self-starter; have good communication skills; meet state licensing requirements for health history; participate in reporting and implementation of the child abuse and neglect policy; participate in any professional development activities (i.e., CPR, first-aid training); previous teaching and/or driving experience preferred; CDL not required - 14 passenger bus.

Coordinator of volunteers and outreach ministries - Holy Trinity, Lenexa, seeks to fill a part-time support position responsible for initiating a new parish volunteer outreach and recruitment effort, volunteer coordination and providing ongoing liaison support for other church ministries. This new role has primary responsibility for developing systems to increase volunteer engagement and will provide pastoral support for hospitality efforts, serve as point-of-contact for individuals/families in crisis and lead our child safety program. Are you a self-starter interested in launching new initiatives that grow into more (we hope a full-time position)? Would you get excited to research, develop and implement new ways to increase broad-based participation and move the uninvolved to more engaged participation in the life of our parish? It will be essential that you maintain confidentiality in all aspects of the job, are comfortable in a leadership role and like to work with an extensive volunteer network. You will be successful because of your understanding of our Christian call to service and your personal desire to help others make this a part of their life. If this sounds like you, let’s talk! Send your resume and note of interest to: snill@htlenexa.org.

Enjoy working with children? - Curé of Ars Catholic School would like you to join our after-school care program. The hours are 3 - 6 p.m. and can be flexible based on your schedule. Contact after-school care director Rhiannon Mendez at: Rhiannon.Mendez@cureofars.com for more information.

Lead consultant for pro-life ministries - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking a lead consultant for pro-life ministry. The mission of the pro-life office is to teach respect for all human life from conception to natural death and organize for its protection. All offices for pro-life initiatives are aligned with the USCCB’s “Pastoral Plan for Pro-Life Activities,” and the consultant is charged with assisting the archbishop and his pastors in implementing these initiatives.

The role of the consultant is to rally the Catholic faithful and people of good will to build up a “culture of life” through collaborative action with the parishes and pastoral regions of the archdiocese. The position requires strong leadership skills; excellent communication skills (both written and verbal); management skills including planning, executing, evaluating, prioritizing, meeting objectives and proficiency in Microsoft Office applications. Bachelor degree or equivalent required as well as involvement in pro-life activities/organizations. An application and benefits information are available on the archdiocese website at: www.archkck.org/jobs.

Interested individuals should send a cover letter, resume and application via email to: jobs@archkck.org, title Consultant for Pro-Life. Position open until filled.

Sales position – Do you have sales experience? Are you well networked in the local community? J.S. Paluch Company, national publisher of church bulletins, has full- and part-time positions available. Excellent earning potential; medical benefits; 401(k); life and AD&D insurance available; excellent commission; compensation program. Interested?

Call Kay Leane at (800) 621-5197, ext. 2823, or email resume to: Recruiting@jspaluch.com.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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

Speedy Guzman Moving and delivery Licensed and insured Anytime (816) 935-0176

Swalms organizing - downsizing - cleanout service - Reduce clutter – Any space organized. Shelving built on-site. Items hauled for recycling and donations. 20 years exp.; insured. Call Tillar at (913) 375-9115. WWW. SWALMSORGANIZING.COM.

Senior hairstyling - Haircuts, perms, roller sets.

Savvy Salon, 5910 W. 59th Terrace Mission, KS, one block south of Johnson Dr. $5 off any service on 1st visit. Bonnie (816) 769-8511.

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) 579-1835. Email: smokeycabin@hot mail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.

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Father-and-son home exteriors and remodeling - Celebrating my 15th year in The Leaven as a small business owner! We do decks, siding, windows, doors, tile work, floors, wood rot, and interior and exterior painting. We can remodel bathrooms, kitchens or basements. We also reface cabinets and redo pesky popcorn ceilings. Call Josh at (913) 709-7230.

EL SOL Y LA TIERRA *Commercial & residential * Lawn renovation *Mowing * Clean-up and hauling * Dirt grading/installation * Landscape design * Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!! www.elsolylatierra.com Call Lupe at (816) 935-0176 Concrete construction - Tear out and replace stamped, stained or colored patios and drives. Retaining walls, footings, poured-in-place safe rooms, excavation and hauling.

Asphalt drives and lots. Fully insured; references. Call Dan at (913) 207-4371 or send an email to: dandeeconst@aol.com.

NELSON CREATION’S L.L.C. Home makeovers, kitchen, bath. All interior and exterior remodeling and repairs.

Family owned, experienced, licensed and insured. Member St. Joseph, Shawnee. Kirk Nelson.

(913) 927-5240; nelsport@everestkc.net Masonry work - Quality new or repair work. Brick, block and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; second-generation bricklayer. Member of St. Paul Parish, Olathe. Call (913) 829-4336.

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

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

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

Rusty Dandy Painting, Inc. – We have been coloring your world for 40 years. Your home will be treated as if it were our own. Old cabinets will be made to look like new. Dingy walls and ceilings will be made beautiful. Woodwork will glow. Lead-certified and insured. Call (913) 341-9125.

Local handyman - Painting int. and ext., staining, wood rot, power wash, decks, doors and windows, masonry, hardwood floors, gutter cleaning, water heaters, toilets, faucets, garbage disposals, ceiling fans, mowing and more!! Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118.

HARCO Exteriors LLC Your Kansas City fencing specialists Family owned and operated (913) 815-4817 www.harcoexteriorsllc.com The Drywall Doctor, Inc. – A unique solution to your drywall problems! We fix all types of ceiling and wall damage — from water stains and stress cracks to texture repairs and skim coating. We provide professional, timely repairs and leave the job site clean! Lead-certified and insured!

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

SERVICES Gas log tuneups - We can do most brands. Email pictures of fireplace to: bbqinfo@smokenfire.com. Smoke ’n’ Fire, 8030 W. 151st St., Overland Park, KS 66223.

Water damage restoration - Framing, insulation, painting, Sheetrock, mold treatment and lead-safe certified. Insurance claims welcome. Serving Wyandotte and Johnson counties for 25 years. Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144.

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

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

Cleaning lady - Reasonable rates; references provided.

Call (913) 940-2959.

Clutter getting you down? - Organize, fix, assemble, install!

“Kevin of all trades” your professional organizer and “Honey-do” specialist. Call or email me today for a free consultation at (913) 271-5055 or KOATorganizing@gmail.com.

Insured. References.

Ceilings - Renew your old textured, yellowed ceilings! Interior painting. No mess. Call Jerry at (913) 201-1144.

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

Rodman Lawn Care Lawn mowing, aeration, verticutting, mulching, Hedge trimming, leaf removal, gutter cleaning Fully insured and free estimates John Rodman (913) 548-3002 Win disability benefits - Disabled and no longer able to work? Get help winning Social Security disability benefits.

Free consultation. Eight years’ experience. No fee unless you win. Call (785) 331-6452 or send an email to: montemace2000@yahoo.com or visit: montemacedisability.com.

Tree Trimming Tree Trimming/Landscaping Insured/References Free Estimates/Local Parishioner Tony (913) 620-6063

FOR SALE Residential lifts - New and recycled. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. St. Michael’s parishioners. KC Lift & Elevator at (913) 327-5557. (Formerly Silver Cross - KC) For sale - Two plots at Resurrection Cemetery, Ascension Garden. $2000 each. Conveyance fee included. Call Dick at (913) 384-5833.

For sale - Four burial plots at Mount Calvary Cemetery, lot 354, section 3, spaces 5, 6, 7 and 8 (prime location right on the road). $8740 or make an offer. Call Kelly at (913) 709-9133.

VACATION Branson condo - Newly updated. Perfect for couples or families. Sleeps six; fully furnished; Wi-Fi; no stairs; close to entertainment; pools; exercise room, tennis and golf available. Call (913) 515-3044.

CAREGIVING Just like family - Let us care for your loved ones in their homes. Two ladies with over 50 years’ combined experience. Looking for night shift coverage, some days. Great price, great references. Both experienced with hospice care.

Call Ophelia at (913) 570-7276 or Kara at (913) 343-1602.

Caregiver - CNA has many years of experience with elderly and dementia patients. Will do meal prep, doctor appointments, errands, medication setup and companionship. Call Johnna at (816) 786-1093.

Situation wanted - Last month, I cared for a client for over 300 hours. I detected sleep apnea, confirmed. Got equipment in the home. Detected a heart problem, confirmed. Got her a stress test, echo and heart monitor.

Detected a heart valve problem and cognitive problems, confirmed. She now has four doctors and superior personalized care. If you want this for your loved one, call me now. Call (913) 701-6381.

Experienced RN - Seeking a part-time day or early evening position. Will provide nursing (no lifting), companionship, respite care and concierge services in the Johnson County area. Call Mary at (913) 710-5412. Negotiable rates.

Companion - Looking for work helping and being a companion for seniors. Will run errands, and have experience and enjoy being with seniors. Call Patty at (913) 499-1469. >> Classifieds continue on page 15

SEPTEMBER 14, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CALENDAR MEMORIAL LITURGY Curé of Ars Parish 9405 Mission Rd., Leawood Sept. 15 at 8 a.m.

A dinner of turkey and dressing, chicken and noodles, ham, sauerkraut, sides and homemade pies will be served. The cost is $10 per meal. Takeout is available. There will also be a country store, bake sale, bingo and a quilt raffle.

There will be a memorial liturgy for deceased loved ones followed by a grief support meeting in the Father Burak Room. The topic will be: “Tears and Laughter During Grief.” For more information, call (913) 649-2026.

FALL FESTIVAL The Cathedral of St. Peter 416 N. 14th St., Kansas City, Kansas Sept. 15 from 5 - 9 p.m.

Dinner will be served in the parish hall. There will be raffles, money prizes, bingo, a silent auction, mouse races and food items including homemade povitica. Randy Balliett and his band the Fairfax Four will also be there.

For more information call Megan Wheeler at (913) 244-2052 or send an email to meggsn bacon@gmail.com.

DINNER AND BAZAAR St. Joseph Parish 306 N. Broadway, Leavenworth Sept. 16 from 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

A roast beef dinner will be served. The cost will be $10 for adults and $5 for kids. There will also be games and other food. A youth art fair will also be held.

OPEN HOUSE Resurrection Cemetery W. 83rd St. and Quivira, Lenexa Sept. 16 - Oct. 28 from 1 - 4 p.m., (Sundays)

Learn more about the archdiocesan Catholic cemeteries. For more information, call (913) 344-7527.

GOSPEL NONVIOLENCE Keeler Women’s Center 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Sept. 18 from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

This is a study group that will meet with others who seek to live as Jesus lives and experience the message of nonviolence that is preached by Jesus.

COFFEE AND SILENCE: A PRAYERFUL DAY AWAY Sophia Spirituality Center 751 S. 8th St., Atchison Sept. 19 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Treat yourself to a day of silent prayer, reading, contemplative walking and rest. Coffee will be provided. Bring a sack lunch and enjoy a prayerful day away. For more information or to register, call (913) 360-6173 or visit the website at: www.sophiaspiritualitycenter.org.

DOROTHY DAY EXHIBIT St. Michael the Archangel Parish 14251 Nall Ave., Leawood Sept. 20 at 7 p.m.

St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center 1631 Crescent Rd., Lawrence Sept. 21 at 7 p.m.

A guided exhibit about the life of Dorothy Day, co-founder of the Catholic Worker Movement, will be hosted by the Overland Park and Lawrence chapters of Communion and Liberation. Marcie Stokman, founder of “Well-Read Mom,” will introduce the exhibit. Admission is free and open to the public. Donations are welcome. For more information, send an email to: mcarrizosaramos@gmail.com.

SLOVENEFEST 2018 Holy Family Parish (Msgr. Mejak Hall) 513 Ohio Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Sept. 22 from 4 - 10 p.m.

This celebration of Slovenian culture will begin with Mass at 4 p.m. Following Mass, there will be a traditional dinner. There will also be Slovenian music and many traditional Slovenian foods, games, Lasko Pivo and a cultural booth. For more information, call the church office at (913) 371-1561 or go online to: www.holyfamilychurchkck.com.

CHORAL WORKSHOP: ‘WE ARE MANY PARTS’ St. Joseph Parish 5901 Flint St., Shawnee Sept. 22 from 9 a.m. - noon

The workshop, hosted by the Greater Kansas City National Pastoral Musicians chapter, is designed to help pastoral choirs and choir directors develop their skills and techniques for singing at liturgies. Mass will be offered at 8:15 a.m., followed by presentations by NPM choir directors. For more information, send an email to: npm2kcks@gmail.com. To register, go online to: www.npminkc.wixsite.com/ home and click on the “We Are Many Parts” logo to the right.

ICE CREAM SOCIAL St. Patrick Parish 1086 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kansas Sept. 22 at 5 p.m.

There will be a Mexican dinner, a Burmese Chin dinner, burgers, hot dogs, bingo, a raffle, children’s games, music and other activities.

‘ORDINARY MIRACLE’ RETREAT Marillac Center 4200 S. 4th St., Leavenworth Sept. 22 from 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Explore the wonders God is working in and through each person. The retreat will be facilitated by Sister Eileen Hurley. The cost for the retreat is $35 and includes lunch. Scholarships are available. Overnight accommodations are available for an additional fee.

SADDLE CLUB Prairie Star Ranch 1124 California Rd., Williamsburg Sept. 22 - Oct. 20

Bring your boots and your Bibles and delve into the beauty of Christian discipleship on horseback. Saddle Club meetings introduce members to various aspects of Christian thought and horse ownership. The club is open to ages 9 - 18. Limited spots are available. Register online at: www.archkck.org/ranch; contact the retreat team by email at: psrministry@ archkck.org; or call (785) 746-5693.

TACO BINGO Holy Angels Parish 15440 Leavenworth Rd., Leavenworth Sept. 22 at 5:30 p.m.

The cost for dinner will be a freewill donation. The cost for bingo cards will be $5 each. The event will help support the Kansas Knights of Columbus sonogram initiative.

There will also be a 50/50 raffle.

DAUGHTERS OF ISABELLA LITTLE FLOWER CIRCLE 503 Christ the King Parish (Yadrich Hall) 5972 S.W. 25th St., Topeka Sept. 23 at 12:30 p.m.

There will be a covered dish luncheon followed by a business meeting. If anyone knows of a member or her family member in distress, sick, or in need of the circle’s prayers, contact Theresa Smith-Lawton at (785) 640-1403. If you are interested in or would like more information about the Daughters of Isabella, call Marilyn Unrein at (785) 230-8448 or Cindy Keen at (785) 228-9863.

PARISH BAZAAR St. John the Baptist Parish 427 S. Prairie, Greeley Sept. 23 at 10:30 a.m.

FAMILY NIGHT Prairie Star Ranch 1124 California Rd., Williamsburg Sept. 23 from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Step away and experience a day of prayer, adventure, outdoor activities and time to reconnect. Families, friends and communities are invited to come together and join in activities and prayer. The day will culminate with Mass in the St. Kateri Chapel. Register online at: archkck.org/ranch or call (785) 746-5693.

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45TH ANNUAL MEXICAN SUPPER Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish (hall) 106 Exchange St., Emporia Sept. 28 from 4:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Enjoy two tacos, rice, chips and salsa, desserts and a drink for $8 in advance or $9 at the door. All proceeds benefit Sacred Heart School’s PTO.

ANNUNCIATION CHURCH PICNIC Cigna Center 402 N. Maple, Frankfort Sept. 30 from 4 - 7 p.m.

There will be a roast beef dinner with all the trimmings. The cost will be $10 for adults; $5 for kids 10 and under. There will also be a potof-gold, cakewalk, bingo, church poker, a quilt raffle, a silent auction, kids games and train rides. Takeout meals will be available (and meals delivered in Frankfort). Call the parish office during morning hours (M-F) at (785) 292-4462 to order delivery meals.

COMMEMORATION MASS AND RECEPTION Sacred Heart Parish 1429 Kansas Ave., Atchison Sept. 30 at 3 p.m.

SACRED WHEELS CAR SHOW AND MEXICAN DINNER St. Joseph Parish 8th & Spring Garden, Atchison Sept. 23 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

A Mexican dinner will be served for the cost of $8 for adults and $4 for kids. There will also be music, a kid zone, raffles, a country store and treasure booth. Beer and margaritas will be available. For information about showing a car, call the parish office at (913) 367-0671.

BISHOP WARD ANNUAL AUCTION BLACK WHITE AND RUBY Uptown Theater 3700 Broadway Blvd., Kansas City, Missouri Sept. 29

The 40th annual auction benefits the student scholarship fund. Tickets are $80 and may be purchased online at: wardhigh.org/ auction2018. Sponsorship opportunities are still available. If you have questions, call (913) 371-6901 or send an email to: development@ wardhigh.org.

SUICIDE SUPPORT GROUP Precious Blood Renewal Center 2120 Saint Gaspar Way, Liberty, Missouri Sept. 30 from 3 - 4:30 p.m.

This session will be led by a licensed professional counselor. Support groups help us realize we are not alone and offer a way to feel heard, understood, accepted and supported.

Freewill offerings will be accepted. Register online by Sept. 28 at: info@pbrenewalcenter. org or call (816) 415-3745.

POTLUCK DINNER Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish (Formation Room) 3601 S.W. 17th St., Topeka Sept. 27 from 5 - 7 p.m.

The Christian widow and widowers organization will host the potluck dinner. There is no cost to attend. For more information, call (785) 233-7350.

DIVORCED: CALLED TO LOVE AGAIN Church of the Ascension (St. Luke Room) 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park Sept. 27 from 7 - 8:30 p.m.

What’s next after divorce/annulment? Join us for a formation series on the gift of self, which helps us fulfill the call to love again.

Various topics will be discussed. Visit our Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/ giftofself143 or send an email to: calledto love143@gmail.com.

Mass in commemoration of the closing of Sacred Heart Church will be celebrated by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann and Abbot James Albers, OSB. A reception will follow immediately in the parking area.

FALL GOSPEL CONCERT Our Lady & St. Rose Parish 2300 N. 8th St., Kansas City, Kansas Sept. 30 at 3 p.m.

Plan to attend the fall gospel concert at Our Lady & St. Rose. Admission is a freewill offering. Your generosity helps our church community fulfill the Gospel and be a positive presence in a challenged area.

TRIVIA NIGHT Mater Dei School (Rossiter Hall) 204 S.W. 8th St., Topeka Oct. 6 at 7 p.m.

The cost to attend is $100 for an eight-person table. There will be prizes, a raffle, popcorn and more. Tables are filling up fast. Reserve your table now by calling the Mater Dei office at (785) 232-7744. Details will follow upon reservation. Proceeds will benefit the school.

CENTERING PRAYER WORKSHOP Cathedral of St. Peter (chapel) 409 N. 15th St., Kansas City, Kansas Oct. 7, 14, 21, 28 from 3 - 4:15 p.m.

Join Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth as they facilitate a four-session workshop on centering prayer. This type of prayer is often called the prayer of the heart and is a contemplative form of prayer.

BEGINNING EXPERIENCE GRIEF SUPPORT WEEKEND Sanctuary of Hope 2601 Ridge Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Oct. 12 - 14

Beginning Experience is offering a healing weekend to men and women of all ages who have suffered the loss of a spouse through death, divorce or separation. It is a time to heal and begin anew. Reservations are required. For more information, visit the website at: www.beginningexperiencekc.org; send an email to: register.bekc@gmail.com; or call Lori at (913) 980-7966.

WINE AND CHOCOLATE Avila University (Whitfield Center) 11901 Wornall Rd., Kansas City, Missouri Oct. 15 from 6 - 8 p.m.

Celebrate the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet’s Founders Day with an evening of specialty wines, gourmet chocolate, hors d’oeuvres and live music. Tours of the Martha Smith, CSJ, Archives & Research Center will also be available. The cost is $35 per person.

SEPTEMBER 14, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY

Let me give you a little background

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 Hasang and companions, martyrs 1 Cor 15: 1-11 Ps 118: 1b-2, 16ab-17, 28 Lk 7: 36-50 Sept. 21 MATTHEW, APOSTLE AND 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 56: 10-14 Lk 8: 4-15

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I

really didn’t know what to expect, but . . . wow!

On Wed., Sept. 5, I went to a performance at Helzberg Hall in the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts in Kansas City, Missouri. I was there to see a “film concert” of “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.”

I had no idea what that meant. I thought that perhaps the Kansas City Symphony would perform some selections from the movie.

Well, the orchestra did so much more. The entire Harry Potter movie was shown on a gigantic screen, while the background music was performed live on stage.

It was like nothing I’d ever seen.

Honestly, who pays much attention to the music while you’re engrossed in a movie?

Although you’re aware of music playing during a film, it’s easy to forget that a real orchestra had to record that in the first place.

Several times during the symphony, I had to remind myself to tear my eyes away from the screen and instead drink in the richness of some 70 musicians playing their

MARK MY WORDS

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

hearts out before me.

I was mesmerized — and I wasn’t alone. In fact, people were so captivated that they stayed in their seats as the long, long list of credits ran.

And the symphony played through it all — after the stars’ names were finished, we then watched as the seemingly interminable list of “others” scrolled on: key grip, gaffer, daily focus puller, additional clapper loader, best boy, chargehand dressing storeman, creature fabricator, digital cleanup artist, render wrangler, roto artist, etc.

What would a movie

be today without music?

Seeing the various instruments that comprised this movie’s soundtrack — violins, violas, cellos, double basses, flutes, oboes, English horn, clarinets, bassoons, trumpets, trombones, timpani, percussion and even a harp — astounded me.

It got me thinking about all of the “background things” in my daily life that I take for granted.

It’s much like the experience in this little story: A well-known organist was performing a concert on the huge, antique organ in the local Presbyterian church. The bellows were hand-pumped by a boy who was behind a screen, unseen by the audience. The first part of the performance was well received. The audience was thrilled by the organist’s ability at

the keyboard of the old instrument.

After taking his bows and accepting the ovation, the musician walked proudly into a side passageway. As he passed the “bellows boy,” he heard him say, “We played well, didn’t we, sir?”

The organist snidely replied, “What do you mean ‘we’?”

After the intermission, the organist returned to his seat at the impressive five-keyboard console and began to play. Nothing happened; not a sound was heard.

Then the musician heard a youthful voice whisper from behind the screen, “Say, mister, now do you know what ‘we’ means?” (Found in Brian Cavanaugh’s “Sower’s Seeds of Encouragement: Fifth Planting.”)

Just as a movie would be far less rich without background music, so, too, would our lives without “background” people.

For example, when at church, do we ever think about who unlocked the doors? Do we know the person who cleaned it or decorated? Do we step back and think about who wrote all of the checks so that the church would have lights and air condi-

tioning or heating?

Have you ever thought about who orders the hosts and the wine or who cleans the altar cloths and servers’ albs?

In our daily life, there are so many whose work we take for granted: those who make sure the water in our homes is safe, the person who manufactures the rechargers for our electronic devices, those who produce our eyeglasses, the workers who put up towers so our cellphones work.

As Christians, we’re called to notice the “least,” the forgotten, among us. A good exercise this week might be to thank those wonderful people who labor in the background. Take time to thank the person who cuts your hair, the kid who stocks the grocery shelves, the folks who bus the tables at the restaurant or wash the dishes, the people who schedule your various appointments.

And while you’re at it, don’t forget to notice the live music at Mass this weekend. Go up and thank the choir.

For, as athlete Dhani Jones says, “There’s nothing better than live music.

It’s raw energy, and raw energy feeds the soul.”

Jesus makes death, resurrection, themes of Christian life

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D

o you have a doppelganger? Once, someone came up to me and began speaking to me as though I were another person.

At the moment, I was not dressed as a priest, so that confused the matter. It turned out that the person I was mistaken for also belonged to our parish.

Others had already noticed the resemblance, so it came as no surprise. I knew that I had a doppelganger.

When Jesus asks the disciples in Sunday’s Gospel reading, Mk 8:2735, “Who do people say that I am?” they report, “John the Baptist, others Elijah, still others one of the prophets.”

Apparently, Jesus has

THE GOSPEL TRUTH

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

several doppelgangers.

Significantly, all of them are known to be dead.

By claiming that Jesus is

one of these dead men, the crowd is imagining that Jesus has returned from the dead. Although mistaken in this belief, they thus are anticipating a great truth: the mystery of Jesus’ death and resurrection.

Soon afterwards, Jesus makes a more direct prediction concerning his death and resurrection. Shocked,

Peter rebukes Jesus for this. Although the text does not explicitly state it, we can suppose that Peter has focused on the part in the prediction about death. That is the stumbling block for Peter.

After setting Peter straight, Jesus then addresses his disciples and the crowd with his paradoxical teaching on saving one’s life: “Whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and that of the gospel will save it.”

Once again, the theme of death and resurrection appears. By losing our life for Christ, we will save it in the resurrection.

The theme of death and resurrection runs throughout these

moments in the Gospel reading.

The point is, Jesus wants death and resurrection to run throughout the lives of his disciples.

He wants it to be the pattern of life that we follow. When we experience difficulties in life, he wants us to believe that God can make good come from them. When we face the sacrifices that we must make in order to follow his teachings, he wants us to remember that ultimately God will bring good from them, that the sacrifices are worth it.

That is what it means to embrace the cross: “Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.”

The cross will lead us to fullness of life.

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@theleavenkc

POPE FRANCIS

INSTAGRAM theleavenkc

Christian conversion does not entail accusing others, but is shamefully recognizing and sincerely repenting one’s own sins, Pope Francis said.

“A sign that a person, that a Christian does not know how to blame oneself is when they are used to accusing others, to badmouth others, to stick their noses in other people’s lives. It’s a bad sign. Do I do this? It is a good question for getting to the heart” of things, he said in his morning homily Sept. 6.

At morning Mass in the Domus Sanctae Marthae, the pope reflected on the day’s Gospel reading of the call of Simon Peter, the fisherman (Lk 5:1-11).

Peter was astonished to see the huge number of fish that was caught after Jesus told him to lower the nets into deep water even though they spent a whole night catching nothing. The amazing bounty led Peter to throw himself before Jesus and say, “Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man.

This is Peter’s first decisive step” on the path of being a disciple of Christ — being able to accuse himself of being a sinner, Pope Francis said.

— CNS

SEPTEMBER 14, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CLASSIFIEDS >> Continued from page 12 CNA - Professional caregiver provides quality private home care assistance for the elderly in the comfort of your home. Part-time or full-time assignments. Will consider live-in arrangements. 25 years seasoned experience. Dedicated to clients. Call (816) 806-8104.

Coming soon - Five-bedroom home for sale just a halfmile walk to St. James. Walk-out basement backs to green space and gorgeous sunsets. Large lot in quiet culde-sac features formal dining room, den/office space, living room, finished basement with workout room, bar and home theater. New paint and carpet throughout.

9430 Sunray Dr. Call (913) 735-6697.

Looking for assisted living at home? - Before you move, call us and explore our in-home care options. We specialize in helping families live safely at home while saving thousands of dollars per year. Call today for more information or to request a FREE home care planning guide. Benefits of Home - Senior Care, www.benefits ofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591.

I NEED HOUSES! - We are members of Holy Trinity Parish and we pay cash for any real estate without any realtor commissions or fees. We buy houses in any condition, including bad foundations. If you would like an easy, no-hassle sale at a fair price, please call me. We have 15 years of experience. Mark Edmondson, (913) 980-4905.

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

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

REAL ESTATE Whole Estates Need to sell a home and everything in it?

We buy it all at once in as-is condition.

Call (816) 444-1950 or send an email to: www.wholeestates.com.

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FOR RENT Roommate wanted - To share my three-bedroom twobath Shawnee home. Good Shepherd Parish. Nonsmoker.

No deposit. $600 a month rent, includes utilities and Wi-Fi. Text or leave message for Cindy at (913) 461-7863.

WANTED TO BUY Will buy firearms and related accessories - One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid.

Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee.

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

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SEPTEMBER 14, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

MOVE-IN AT SAINT MARY’S

LEAVEN PHOTOS BY JAY SOLDNER

August 18 was move-in day at the University of Saint Mary in Leavenworth. Parents and students had a little help, thanks to the university’s newest tradition of having student athletes and volunteer faculty and staff do the heavy lifting. Students began with check-in at DePaul Library to pay fees and get their identification cards before heading to the dorms to unload. In the photo to the right, Mia Grado, 19, (left) of Kansas City, Kansas, and Kiley Barnes, 20, of Bloomville, Missouri, carry the last of their supplies to their room in Maria Residence Hall. The roommates are both sophomores majoring in nursing. On Aug. 20, the university held a matriculation ceremony (above) in Annunciation Chapel. As is tradition, matriculation preceded the official start of fall classes on Aug. 21. Following a greeting from USM president Sister Diane Steele, students lit candles at the chapel altar and then formed a “circle of light” around the building’s interior. Administration, faculty and upperclassmen in attendance offered a blessing of the new students before they proceeded outside. The lights of their candles symbolized both their potential and the university’s mission being carried out into the world.

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