09 17 21 Vol. 43 No. 7 by The Leaven

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 43, NO. 7 | SEPTEMBER 17, 2021

LEAVEN PHOTO BY MOIRA CULLINGS

Larry Day shows off his radial arm saw, a tool that plays a crucial role in his rosary-making process. Larry makes each of his rosaries by hand and out of the wood from a variety of sources — from church kneelers to dead trees.

A CUT ABOVE

Elbow grease, TLC transform scrap wood into rosaries

B ry.

UCYRUS — Diana Day’s favorite rosary is more than an instrument for prayer. Its beads contain a connection to her family histo-

The beads were crafted by Diana’s husband Larry out of old kneelers from Queen of the Holy Rosary Church, Bucyrus, where Diana’s family has belonged since its founding. “I know that my great-great-grandfather and grandmother knelt on the kneelers,” said Diana, “and right on down the line — from my parents clear down to us.” Larry has made countless rosaries, crucifixes and other household items from scratch, using all sorts of wood — from church kneelers to dead trees. The results are a sentimental — and spiritual — keepsake that recipients of his work cherish for a lifetime.

“

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

“ EVERYTHING LARRY DOES IS A GIFT OF LOVE. HE TAKES PRIDE IN HIS BEAUTIFUL HOBBY AND SHARES WITH EVERYONE. ROSIE GUETTERMAN MEMBER OF QUEEN OF THE HOLY ROSARY PARISH, BUCYRUS

Something out of nothing In 2006, Queen of the Holy Rosary’s church building turned 100 years old. The wear and tear it had undergone prompted the need for new kneelers, and Larry discovered the old ones were being thrown away. “I thought, ‘I want some of the kneelers,’” he said. “‘Maybe I can make

something out of them.’ “So, I kept them for a while.” Larry mulled over what to do with the 23 kneelers he obtained until he came up with the idea to make rosaries. “He was trying to think of something to make that I would like,” said Diana, “and he knew that rosaries were something special.” At first, Larry was hesitant. “It sounded pretty tedious for a big old guy with big old hands like mine,” he said. Eventually, he decided to try it, and his first rosary was a success. But the beads were square because of how they were cut, and Larry wanted to take the process a step further. While visiting a woodcraft shop, where he spoke with an employee about his predicament, he learned of a technique to make traditional round beads. The employee knew of someone who had strapped a box to a belt sander to round out small pieces of wood.

“That sounded pretty good to me,” said Larry. “So, I came home and built [one].” And he’s never looked back. Larry’s rosary-making process is unmatched. After cutting a piece of wood into small squares, he places the pieces into an open box, attaches it to a belt sander and turns it on so the beads tumble up and down the belt, a process that slowly rounds them out. He then lines up about 60 at a time on a string of wire, varnishes them and carefully spreads them out to dry. The process of putting the actual rosary together takes him about two hours. The only elements of his rosaries that aren’t homemade are the wire, medal and crucifix. Larry also uses old wood to make large crucifixes, which Diana said was challenging for him in a different way. >> See “SELF-TAUGHT” on page 6

ARCHBISHOP

SEPTEMBER 17, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Knights’ founder empowered laity to collaborate with parish priests

ast week’s Leaven contained an excellent article on this year’s seminarian pilgrimage. The pilgrimage was designed to expose our seminarians to some of the heroic priests and saints who made huge contributions to the vibrancy of the Catholic Church in the United States. One of the personal highlights for me was visiting the Knights of Columbus museum as well as St. Mary Parish in New Haven, Connecticut, where Blessed Michael McGivney began what would become the largest Catholic fraternal organization in the world. Father McGivney was motivated in October 1881 to found the Knights of Columbus in part because of the plight of young widows in his parish. As a result of the hazardous working conditions as well as unsanitary living conditions, many husbands all too frequently died at a young age and left meager resources for their wives to care

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN for their children. In founding the Knights, Father McGivney recognized and was responding to what he considered a triple tragedy for Catholic families. Widows not only lost their husbands, but in New Haven, they had to appear in court to prove their ability to provide for their children. If a widow could not satisfy the expectations of the court, the children were removed from her care. Most likely, the children would be placed in a non-Catholic home. Children not only lost

their biological parents but also their Catholic faith. On the pilgrimage, we were able to visit the parish hall beneath St. Mary Church where what was to become the Knights of Columbus first met. It was wonderful to see that the founding place was still a well-used parish hall. For more than a century, St. Mary Parish has been under the pastoral care of the Dominican Fathers. Our visit actually coincided with the feast day of St. Dominic. We saw in the hall the remnants of the parish celebration from the night before, honoring their Dominican priests on the feast of their founder.

Father McGivney in founding the Knights of Columbus was responding to a very concrete and important need of his parishioners. This young and energetic priest sought to inspire and empower a group of laity to surround Catholic widows and their children with the material, moral and spiritual support they needed to preserve their family. The Knights of Columbus Life Insurance program continues in our time to protect and preserve families that experience the tragic loss of a parent. Blessed Michael McGivney was a visionary. He recognized the necessity for parish priests to collaborate with and empower lay leaders to address crucial needs within the parish family. Father McGivney anticipated some of the important themes of the Second Vatican Council: the universal call to holiness and the essential role of the laity to improve and transform society. Father Michael McGivney could never

have imagined the impact that first meeting in the basement of St. Mary Church in New Haven would have — not only upon the church in the United States but throughout the world. The Knights of Columbus today labor heroically to assist their pastors, their bishops and the Holy Father in addressing some of the most important religious, moral and material needs of our time. For example, the Knights of Columbus in Kansas will play an important role in the efforts to pass next August the “Value Them Both” amendment to the Kansas Constitution. Without this amendment, Kansans will be powerless to protect the lives of unborn children and to spare mothers the emotional, spiritual and physical trauma of abortion. I am grateful for all the members of the Knights of Columbus in the archdiocese. They do so much to help their members grow in holiness, become better

husbands and fathers, encourage and support priestly vocations, protect the unborn, defend religious liberty, assist children with disabilities, strengthen marriage and family life, and support Catholic schools, religious education programs and college Catholic campus ministries. What began as something so small and seemingly inconsequential in New Haven 140 years ago has become a mighty force for good in our nation and world. I encourage men who are not currently a member of the Knights of Columbus to consider joining. If you do, you will experience genuine fraternal support to live your Catholic faith with joy and fidelity. You will also help the Knights today to help our church respond to the pastoral needs of our time, just as that first group of men helped care for widows and children. Become a Knight to grow spiritually, to help strengthen our church and to change the world.

LOCAL NEWS

SEPTEMBER 17, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COURTESY PHOTO

Benedictine College in Atchison has announced a new strategic plan called “Transforming Culture in America,” which includes the education of students but also extends to working with alumni and extending beyond the campus out into the community.

Benedictine launches new plan to transform culture in America

TCHISON — Benedictine College here announced its new strategic plan, “Transforming Culture in America,” on Sept. 9. The initiative is designed to extend the college’s longtime mission — “the education of men and women within a community of faith and scholarship” — to America’s most pressing needs. “The Benedictine mission of community, faith and scholarship transformed culture in Europe and it can transform culture in America today,” said Benedictine president Stephen D. Minnis. “In a world of loneliness and polarization, community is the key. In an age of hopelessness and incivility, faith is the key, and in a ‘post-truth’ era that is information-rich but analysispoor, scholarship is the key.” The plan has four priorities: formation, profession, extension and excellence. The plan will: • form students on campus in the mission through programs, including the Raven Standard, intentional disciples and the Catholic intellectual tradition • advance alumni professionally to succeed through the mission with programs, including: the Raven Walk online platform and alumni formation • extend the mission beyond the campus through Centers of Distinction, including: the Center for Catholic Media, the Center for Beauty and Culture, the Center for Constitutional Liberty, the Center for Eco-Stewardship

“

By Steve Johnson Special to The Leaven

WE HAD SPENT 10 YEARS WITH THE GOAL OF BUILDING ONE OF THE GREAT CATHOLIC COLLEGES IN AMERICA AND HAD MADE HUGE GAINS. SO, WE STARTED ASKING THE QUESTIONS: WHY? WHAT CAN A GREAT CATHOLIC COLLEGE DO? STEPHEN D. MINNIS PRESIDENT OF BENEDICTINE COLLEGE and the Center for Family Life. The interface with the Benedictine College extension content is the new site: Ex Corde.org. • build upon the school’s commitment to excellence in all aspects of the college, especially in academic excellence, a strong endowment, a vibrant student life program and a beautiful campus. Possible capital projects include: an iconic library renovation; an architecture wing to historic Fink Hall; a high-performance athletics facility; residence life expansion; and a fine arts building. The plan was produced by a process that began in 2018 and through which the college’s faculty, board of directors, staff and administration met with leaders from all walks of American life.

“We had spent 10 years with the goal of building one of the great Catholic colleges in America and had made huge gains,” said Minnis. “So, we started asking the questions: Why? What can a great Catholic college do?” The college’s vision statement dedicates the college to educating students to “become leaders” who would “transform the world through their commitment to intellectual, personal and spiritual greatness.” So, the college turned to nationally known experts, from Kansas City television anchor John Holt to author and speaker Christopher West, to discuss how the college can impact the culture. • Architect Duncan Stroik, along with EWTN’s Raymond Arroyo and others, participated in the Arts and Media subcommittee. • Nebraska congressman Jeff Fortenberry served on the Civic Life and the Law subcommittee. • Brad Wilcox of the University of Virginia, Mary Hasson at the Ethics and Public Policy Center in Washington and the Rev. Eugene Rivers of Boston’s TenPoint Coalition helped address the Family. • Patrick Reilly of the Cardinal Newman Society met three times with the Academia subcommittee. Each of three meetings with the group were led by speakers addressing author and Time magazine columnist David French and author and American Enterprise Institute fellow Timothy P. Carney. Jack Newman, the chair of Benedictine College’s board of directors, said, “The college has a proven track record of success, and this is a tremendous

President Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799) 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) 7215276; or email at: sub@theleaven.org. 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.

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org

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

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

opportunity to give back to the communities where our alumni live. This plan was designed to turn lofty goals into pragmatic, practical solutions, and the college gathered people who excel at that.” The college recently completed its previous strategic plan, “Benedictine 2020: A Vision for Greatness,” which also expanded the college’s mission of community, faith and scholarship. • “Benedictine 2020” opened nine new residence halls, a new dining hall, the Murphy Recreation Center, and updated or expanded every athletic facility. • The college was consecrated to Mary, enthroned the Sacred Heart, opened three new chapels with 24hour access to the Blessed Sacrament and greatly expanded mission trips. • The plan built five new academic buildings, including America’s finest small-college science and engineering building; added an architecture major; began a Great Books Program ranked in the top 25 nationwide; added $1 million to the yearly academic budget; and attracted the highest academically achieving students statewide. “A college whose motto is: ‘Forward, Always Forward,’ can never be satisfied with past successes,” said Minnis. “We truly believe God blessed Benedictine College — not for our own sake but for the sake of others, and we will be judged on our generosity. “I think we found some wonderful ways the college’s mission of community, faith and scholarship can transform culture in America.”

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org

Advertising Coordinator Beth Blankenship beth.blankenship@theleaven.org

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

LOCAL NEWS

SEPTEMBER 17, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Internationally known pro-life activist headlines local banquet By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

VERLAND PARK — Abby Johnson, whose dramatic exit from the abortion industry is chronicled in the bestselling book “Unplanned” and in the 2019 film of the same name, served as the keynote speaker for the Life and Hope Banquet, an annual fundraiser for the Wyandotte and Olathe Pregnancy Clinics held Sept. 2 at the Overland Park Convention Center. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, chair of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Committee on Pro-life Activities, delivered the opening prayer, saying, “We turn to you, Lord our God, for strength in order to bring to the full consciousness of our society the innate value of each and every human life and the moral and legal imperatives necessary to guarantee the right to life for our brothers and sisters.” In her director’s report, Leah Connor, executive director of the Wyandotte Pregnancy Clinic, cited a study of post-abortive women conducted by the Elliott Institute in which 83% of women said if one person would have offered help, they would have carried their child to term. That statistic, she said, speaks to the core of the clinics’ shared mission. “We desire to change society, providing women, men and children with an optimistic spirit and good information which will otherwise be very difficult for them to attain,” she said. “And, hopefully, this will help set them on a trajectory, making abortion unthinkable . . . one life at a time.” Both clinics offer free services such as pregnancy testing, ultrasounds and other supports such as diapers to aid women and families with parenting needs for up to three years after the birth of their child, all while building relationships. The money raised from the event will be used not only to continue to provide this high quality of care for a growing number of clients, but also to

LEAVEN PHOTO BY MARC ANDERSON

Abby Johnson, subject of the bestselling book “Unplanned” and in the 2019 film of the same name, served as the keynote speaker for the Life and Hope Banquet Sept. 2 at the Overland Park Convention Center. grow the clinics’ online presence, both organic and paid. The clinics debuted their new client website, including an online scheduling option, at the banquet. In her remarks, Johnson said that growing up, she had no idea as to the evil of abortion. “Two unplanned pregnancies later, two abortions later, I was in. I was hooked into that evil,” she said. “That evil had taken ahold of my life, of my heart, of my mind. “That’s just how sin works. It changes who you are. It changes you at your core. How did I stay there and help facilitate 22,000 abortions?

I don’t know. . . . What I do know is that no matter how tarnished our past is, no matter what we have done, God is always willing to make us whole again.” In late September 2009, during an abortion procedure, Johnson was asked to hold an ultrasound probe in place. Afterward, she looked at her hands, and she recalled another moment in her life, the moment her daughter was placed in her hands for the first time. “These hands had held her to me as she nursed and I nourished her,” said Johnson, “and it was these hands that patted her little bottom when she was upset and I comforted her. And I real-

ized it was these hands that had helped to sustain the life of my child. But in that moment, it was those same hands that had helped to take a life.” Near the end of her remarks, Johnson gave the crowd a direct challenge. “What are we doing to raise up an army of warriors for the cause of life? What are we doing to serve those in need?” she asked. “Because there’s literally a battle being fought, and it is a battle of life and death, and that’s not me being dramatic. That’s me being honest with you. Three thousand lives every single day are on the line, and so I’m asking you, ‘What are you going to do about it?’”

Catholic Cemeteries will offer information sessions in parishes

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — As an outreach to parishes, Catholic Cemeteries of Northeast Kansas is hosting information sessions on end-of-life planning. “Our goals are to inform people about our services with emphasis on the extraordinary value of being buried in a Catholic versus non-Catholic cemetery,” said Sharon Vallejo, president of Catholic Cemeteries. “We want the parish to be central to everyone’s funeral planning, and a Catholic cemetery to be the option people choose for burial or interment.” The archdiocesan ministry invited clergy, parish funeral coordinators and church office staff to an inaugural information session in late August at Savior Pastoral Center. Parishes interested in presentations at their locations can contact Catholic Cemeteries to coordinate dates. At the Aug. 30 session, Bryan Alonzo, director of sales and marketing, discussed the continuity of baptism, membership in a parish community and the choice of a Catholic cemetery for burial or interment. He pointed out that Catholic cemeteries have consecrated ground, and monuments and memorials reflective of the Catholic faith. Furthermore, they

COURTESY PHOTO

Bryan Alonzo, Catholic Cemeteries director of sales and marketing, shares a graphic depicting the “Catholic circle of protection” for guidance in making end-of-life arrangements. represent the belief that the deceased remain connected with the living in the communion of saints. Alonzo detailed what he described as the “Catholic circle of protection” that encompasses the involvement of parishes, funeral homes and cemeteries at the time of a person’s death (at-need) or when arrangements have been preplanned (preneed). He shared

a graphic that identifies services and merchandise available through funeral homes and cemeteries. He noted that Catholic Cemeteries now offers a funeral insurance policy in collaboration with a number of mortuaries in the archdiocese. When family service advisers meet with families to preplan, Alonzo said they go into greater depth about the “circle of

protection,” associated expenses and opportunities to lock in prices. Among reasons to preplan, he listed: • the emotional advantage of minimizing planning required of surviving family members • the choice of arrangements the individual prefers (“choice vs. chance”) • the relief of financial burden with the five-year payment plan and 0% interest on all cemetery services and products • the affordable, low-interest, monthly payments on all funeral services and products. “Along with the financial advantages, peace of mind results for those making the choices and those who will survive them,” concluded Alonzo. He said that family service advisers will be available at the parish sessions. Individuals can also make personal appointments by calling Catholic Cemeteries’ main number at (913) 371-4040 or sending an email to: information@ cathcemks.org. Parishes interested in hosting an information session can contact Alonzo at the main number or by email at: balonzo@ cathcemks.org. Catholic Cemeteries operates and manages nine cemeteries located in Johnson, Leavenworth, Shawnee and Wyandotte counties in Kansas.

LOCAL NEWS

SEPTEMBER 17, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Hibernian Cup promotes friendly rivalry between schools By Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org

OELAND PARK — Football has always been defined by its great rivalry games. In college ball, there is Alabama and Auburn, Michigan and

Ohio State. In the NFL, you have games like the Bears vs. Packers and Chiefs vs. Raiders. Most often these games are noted for each team’s intense hatred for one another. The Father Bernard Donnelly Division of the Ancient Order of Hibernians in Johnson County had something else in mind when it established the Hibernian Cup six years ago. The goal was to establish a friendly football rivalry between St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Overland Park and St. James Academy, Lenexa. The game was played at Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park since St. James does not yet have a home field. “One of the reasons why we wanted this game is because these are Catholic schools in pretty much the same neighborhood. We wanted to get that rivalry going but we also want to reward both schools for their participation,” said Charles Lamont, past president of the Hibernians who was instrumental in establishing the Hibernian Cup game. The Donnelly Division of the Hibernians in Johnson County is an Irish Catholic organization dedicated to friendship, unity and Christian charity, said Lamont. Established locally in 2002, the order has around 95 active members. For participating, both teams get $1,000 from the Hibernians to go to their school’s general scholarship fund. The winner of the game also gets the Hibernian Cup, a crystal trophy dedicated to Lamont’s late wife Eileen, who died in May 2001. This year, the game took on special meaning for Lamont, as Tommy Barnes, his great-nephew, is a freshman football player at St. James. This is the first time a relative of Lamont’s has been part of the game. Tommy was a sideline helper for the game. Lamont admits to getting a little misty eyed when he heard Tommy was going to be part of the game. “It’s cool to have a family member be involved, being on the sideline and have his team playing for the cup that was named after his aunt,” he said. St. James head coach Tom Radke said that he loves the whole idea behind the Hibernian Cup. “The cup is definitely something that we talk about with our guys throughout the week,” he said. “I have always loved the Big 10 rivalry jugs/cups/trophies. It adds to the fun and atmosphere of a rivalry game.” This year’s Hibernian Cup game kicked off the season for St. James and

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Overland Park, celebrates winning the Hibernian Cup, a crystal trophy presented each year to the winner of the St. James Academy-St. Thomas Aquinas football game. The Father Bernard Donnelly Division of the Ancient Order of Hibernians in Johnson County established the Hibernian Cup six years ago to promote a friendly rivalry between the two schools.

More about the Ancient Order of Hibernians

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Lenexa’s St. James Academy freshman football player Tommy Barnes (No. 11) is the great-nephew of Eileen Lamont. It is to her memory that the Hibernian Cup is dedicated. St. Thomas Aquinas on Sept. 3. St. James, coming off its most successful season ever, winning the 2020 Kansas Class 4A state championship, had high hopes of bringing the cup home for the first time. Instead, it was St. Thomas Aquinas who walked away with a 28-7 victory and possession of the Hibernian Cup for another year. “It’s always good starting the season off with a win,” said Aquinas head coach

John and Ana Chavez, members of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, Topeka, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept. 18. The couple was married on Sept. 18, 1971, at Our Lady of Guadalupe by Father Edward Fagan. They will celebrate at home with family. Their children are: Edward Chavez, Robert Chavez, John Chavez and Juliana Chavez-Munoz. They also have two grandchildren.

Randy Dreiling. “Starting off the season against a quality team like St. James, the reigning Class 4A champs, was a big win for us. Keeping the Hibernian Cup at Aquinas further heightens the friendly rivalry between two schools with a common mission within the archdiocese.” Dreiling went on to praise the Hibernians for their commitment to charity and Catholic education. “I would like to thank the Ancient

Judy and Kenneth Decker, members of St. Agnes Parish in Roeland Park, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept. 18. The couple was married on Sept. 18, 1971, at Broadway Baptist Church, Kansas City, Missouri. Father John Eldringhoff and the Rev. Paul Smith officiated. Their children are: Shannon Benes, Suzanne Teson and Janelle Guillebeau. They also have 13 grandchildren. The family celebrated with a vacation together earlier this summer.

The Ancient Order of the Hibernians is an Irish Catholic organization that promotes Irish culture and supports the Catholic Church. In addition to the Hibernian Cup, the Father Bernard Donnelly Division of the Ancient Order of Hibernians also gives out five $500 scholarships each year to Catholic elementary school students who choose to continue their education at a Catholic high school in the Kansas City area. The Hibernians also donate to the Duchesne Clinic, Catholic Charities, Harvesters and the Surviving Spouse and Family Endowment Fund. For more information about the local order, go online to: ksaoh.org.

Order of Hibernians for their interest and participation in our annual game against St. James,” he said. “The Hibernians are faith-filled, Irish Catholic gentlemen looking to positively impact their community. To date, the Father Donnelly Division of the AOH has donated $6,000 to each school’s general scholarship fund. The Hibernians’ support of Catholic education in Johnson County is commendable.”

Hugh and JoAnn McNamara, members of Church of the Nativity, Leawood, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on Sept. 16. The couple was married at Christ the King Parish, Kansas City, Missouri. They celebrated by attending Mass and receiving a marriage blessing, followed by a family dinner with their daughters — Kate Hausman, Therese Gengler, Missy Apel and Jill Peters — their 14 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

ANNIVERSARY submissions

POLICY: The Leaven prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th anniversary notices. They are for parishioners in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas WHERE TO SUBMIT: Email: todd.habiger@ theleaven.org.

LOCAL NEWS

SEPTEMBER 17, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Archdiocese hosts Mass for those involved in prison ministry By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — He didn’t practice his Catholic faith for 10 years. And he never dreamed he’d be speaking about it publicly to a roomful of people. Yet on Aug. 14, that’s exactly what Ernesto Martinez, a man who had been incarcerated for 22 years at Lansing Correctional Facility, did. Martinez was one of the featured speakers at a luncheon held after the archdiocese’s first prison ministry Mass celebrated by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kansas. Concelebrating the Mass were Father Roderic Giller, OSB; Father Karl Good; Father Dennis Schaab; and Father Ramon Gaitan, OAR. Several permanent deacons serving in prison ministry assisted in the Mass. The Mass, celebrated “for all those incarcerated, released, mentors, visitors, family and friends,” coincided with the 80th anniversary of the martyrdom of St. Maximilian Maria Kolbe — a Polish priest known as the “Martyr of Charity” for his willingness to give up his life for a fellow prisoner at the Nazi concentration camp at Auschwitz. In his homily, the archbishop said St. Maximilian Kolbe “showed what true Christian freedom is” and said that it’s “an especially important message we communicate to those who are in prison.” “Even though they’re confined physically and limited in so many ways,” he continued, “they still can live the Gospel. They still can love God. They still can love their fellow prisoners, even their guards. This is the great freedom that we bring to those that we serve.” After Mass, a luncheon was served in the parish hall during which Deacon John Stanley, archdiocesan coordinator of prison ministry, expressed his gratitude

LEAVEN PHOTO BY MARC ANDERSON

Supported by John Errante (left) and Tom Chavez (right), Ernesto Martinez tearfully shares how prison ministry volunteers helped him rediscover his Catholic faith. Released earlier this summer from Lansing Correctional Facility after 22 years in prison, Martinez was among a dozen speakers at a luncheon that followed the archdiocese’s first prison ministry Mass celebrated by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann at the Cathedral of St. Peter on Aug. 15. Chavez serves as one of Martinez’s mentors. to everyone involved in prison ministry. “I wish that each one of you could have time to tell your stories and share your experiences [of prison ministry],” he said. The purpose of the day’s program was for prison ministry volunteers to gather in prayer and encourage one another, but also “to give the archbishop a glimpse of each aspect of the archdiocesan prison ministry.” Deacon Marcos Navarro serves as one of the chaplains at Lansing Correctional Facility, one of only five prisons within the archdiocese to have a Catholic chaplain. Prisons, the deacon said, have dining facilities, hospitals, different living quarters and even a store. Most importantly, though, prisons are full of individuals, all of whom are unique human beings formed in the image of God.

Every single prisoner has unique needs, he continued, just like any other person. Their needs range from purely physical to psychological, emotional and spiritual needs. “They’re all children of God,” Deacon Navarro said. Whether volunteers realize it or not, they are bringing to the incarcerated something they need desperately. “You bring the face of Christ to them,” he said. “That’s what they really need. That’s what they really want, whether they acknowledge it or not.” Martinez spoke toward the end of the program. Standing in front of the microphone, hands trembling and his voice quivering with emotion, he expressed his gratitude for everyone in the room — and all those not in attendance — who remember those in prisons either in

their prayers or through participation in ministries such as Bethany Catholics. Having been released from prison earlier this summer, Martinez started his brief remarks by saying, “I’d like to say this is not my plan, but God’s plan.” Thanks in large part to a “Catholic callout” he heard in 2008 while at Lansing Correctional Facility, Martinez said he returned to his Catholic faith. (Prisoners stay in their assigned cells or pods unless they are “called out” or invited to participate in specific activities such as religious services.) Among those walking beside him on his journey were those involved in Bethany Catholics Prison Ministry, a weekly program in which volunteers visit Catholics inside the prison to pray, read Scripture and share stories, offering words of encouragement and hope. Martinez was also aided by Mentoring4Success, a program run by the state of Kansas that matches individuals with mentors approximately six to 12 months before the prisoner’s release. The mentors help develop a transition plan to aid the individual’s successful reintroduction into society. The program started within Kansas in 2012 and has since lowered the state’s recidivism rate substantially. Of those matched with a mentor, only around 8% will commit another crime after leaving a correctional facility. “I’m very thankful for all the support I was given to strengthen my Catholic faith,” Martinez said. Later, through his tears, he shared from the Gospel of Matthew: “For I was hungry and you gave me to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, ill and you cared for me, in prison and you visited me (25:36).” Of how he was treated by the volunteers and his mentors, Martinez said simply, “I was blessed to see Christ.”

Self-taught woodworker makes ‘priceless’ rosaries >> Continued from page 1 “He said that putting these crosses together really bothered him at first because he had to nail Jesus to the cross,” she said. “And it took him a little bit to be able to get it done.”

‘A gift of love’ Larry has taken all sorts of unusual requests throughout the years. One woman had an old crutch her grandfather had made her when she was a little girl, and she asked Larry to make some rosaries out of it. Another couple brought him a 35-yearold dead tree they had planted outside the first house they built together. Larry’s personal stash of wood has come from various places, like the Oratory of St. Patrick in Kansas City, Missouri, and one of the original Bucyrus houses that was torn down. The effort he puts into his creations touches his customers. “They seem to love them,” said Larry. “I have a lot of people who say they use them every day.” “I’ve been to two or three funerals of people who have been buried with my rosaries laying across the top of them,” he added. “That’s pretty humbling to think they think enough of my rosary to do that.” Rosie Guetterman of Queen of the

Holy Rosary said the rosary she received from Larry, which is made from the church’s kneelers, is “priceless.” “My husband Paul and I were born and raised in the parish and have made all our sacraments at QHR and kneeled on the kneelers when we received our first Communion,” she said. Guetterman is inspired by Larry’s innovative spirit. “Everything Larry does is a gift of love,” she said. “He takes pride in his beautiful hobby and shares with everyone. “If we had more Larry Days in the world, we would be a much better place.”

Busy retirement Larry retired around 20 years ago from his job at Gill Studios, Inc., in Lenexa, where he worked for just over 41 years. Although he has some experience fixing up his own house, his woodworking skills are self-taught. Larry said he simply figures things out through trial and error. “I’ve always been a working person,” he said. “I grew up in a pretty poor situation with my family. We didn’t know we were poor. We thought everybody was just like us.” Larry attended a one-room schoolhouse in northeast Missouri with 10 students total. After seventh grade, the

LEAVEN PHOTO BY MOIRA CULLINGS

Larry Day holds up one of his rosaries flanked by his wife Diana. Diana’s family has belonged to Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish in Bucyrus since its founding, and Larry has made many rosaries from the church’s old kneelers, which would have otherwise been thrown away. school closed, and he was bussed into a larger town. He wasn’t raised Catholic but converted to the faith around seven years after marrying Diana. “We were raising our young family,” he said. “I decided to join the church. I thought the Catholic Church was the original one, and I liked that. I’ve been here ever since.”

Now, Larry spends his free time attending daily Mass and cranking out rosaries in his basement workshop. “It’s been fun,” he concluded simply. “I’ve enjoyed it.” If you are interested in Larry’s work and would like to request a rosary or crucifix, contact him at: ldayrosarymkr@gmail.com or call (913) 709-6916 and leave a message.

SEPTEMBER 17, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Program helps Catholics identify their own spiritual gifts By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

HAWNEE — Linda Mayer was a little leery when she first heard about Catherine of Siena Institute’s Called and Gifted program. The program helps participants discover their unique charisms, and Mayer wasn’t convinced she hadn’t already done that herself. “I’ve had this much life experience,” she thought. “How am I going to find out anything new?” “But I was encouraged to go by somebody who really found it wonderful for them,” she continued. “I thought, ‘Maybe the Holy Spirit’s working here. Maybe I ought to listen.’” Mayer attended a Called and Gifted workshop around three years ago and was unexpectedly impressed. On Sept. 11, she attended the second of three workshops being held at her home parish, Good Shepherd in Shawnee — but this time as an organizer. Around 40 people are currently participating in the program through Good Shepherd — some in person and some online. John Dahlstrand, consultant for the archdiocesan office of evangelization, is the facilitator. He’s been eager for more Catholics to find out what their charisms are and how they can change their lives. “Charisms, or spiritual gifts, are special abilities given to Christians by the Holy Spirit at the time of baptism and renewed at confirmation,” he said. Participants discover their top charisms after filling out an in-depth questionnaire during the workshop segment of the program. They learn more about the charisms by watching videos that include personal testimonies and discuss wellknown saints who displayed certain charisms in their own lives. When Mayer first went through the program and discovered her charisms, it brought clarity to her life. The results confirmed some of the talents she was utilizing in her job as a nurse, and she was moved to get involved with Good Shepherd’s religious education program to cultivate her gifts even more.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Jennifer Rau, above, a member of Good Shepherd Parish, Shawnee, takes part in a discussion at the Called and Gifted workshop Sept. 11 at Good Shepherd. John Dahlstrand, below, right, consultant for the archdiocesan office of evangelization, served as the facilitator for the event. “It can bring so much joy,” she said, “because if you find out where those gifts are, things are joyful, they’re easier and you see wonderful results that you might not see all by yourself.” After the workshop portion, Called and Gifted offers an interview process and continued discernment through small groups. During the interview process, participants talk with a trained interviewer — someone like Mayer — to figure out a plan for how they can refine their unique charisms and use them in an intentional way. The archdiocese has around 20 interviewers available for this stage, said Dahlstrand. Finally, the program concludes with a discernment phase, which typical-

ly involves small group discussions where participants can share how their progress is going and give each other feedback. Father Kent O’Connor, pastor of Good Shepherd, has been impressed by the program. “A basic Christian principle is ‘Know thyself,’” he said. “If we know God is calling us and the charisms that he has given us, then all the better our lives and our church will be.” He hopes those participating will receive clarity on God’s call in their own lives. “I believe that leads to more fulfilling lives, as well as opening our lives, our church and our world to the grace God wishes to give us,” he said. This type of faith development

ACROSS 1 Skewer 5 Sham 9 Phoenician god 13 El __ (Texas city) 14 Biblical weed 15 Perhaps 16 Twin brother of Jacob 17 Charity 18 Very fat 19 KJV word for love 21 Swerve 23 Pocket 24 Half a dozen 25 Napping 29 Tender loving care 30 It __ Upon a Midnight Clear . . . 32 Cutting tool 33 Permeate or influence 36 Knobby 37 Sticky black substance 38 Uncommon 39 Biblical weeds 40 Animal skin 41 Street abbr. 42 Biblical unit of length 43 Joy (KJV) 44 British drink 45 Too 46 Change hue

opportunity is one small piece of the evangelization puzzle in the archdiocese. “Part of the mission of the office of evangelization is to encourage personal prayer and provide formation opportunities that foster missionary discipleship,” said Dahlstrand. Called and Gifted is one way that mission is being lived out in northeast Kansas. “God is calling all of us to a unique purpose in life and a certain work that only we can do,” said Dahlstrand. “Discernment of charisms allows us to further discern God’s call and ultimately answer his call.” To learn more about Called and Gifted, visit the archdiocesan website at: archkck.org/called-gifted.

47 Endows 49 Old Testament city 50 Foot extension 53 Despot 55 Plan 57 Panorama 60 Pelt 62 Lawyer (abbr.) 63 Yellow pigment 64 Contended 65 Cut into pieces 66 Stare 67 Saul, later 68 September (abbr.) DOWN 1 Glasses 2 High ranking man- used formerly 3 Father of Jacob 4 Visit places 5 Type of electricity 6 Sepals of a flower 7 Build up 8 Disorder 9 Tower of __ 10 Popeye’s yes 11 Abdominal muscles (abbr.) 12 Downwind 15 Quiet 20 Island

22 Sacrificial animals 26 Devourer 27 Glorify 28 W. Australian capital 29 Day of the wk. 30 Oddity 31 A wager (2 wds.) 33 Wrathful 34 Expert 35 Man shall not live by __ alone 36 Takes 39 Oklahoma city 40 Dessert 42 Roman title 43 Asian starling 46 Full skirted dress 48 Speak 49 Bye 50 A tenth part 51 Upon (2 wds.) 52 Land of Pharaoh 54 Please respond 56 Western Athletic Conferences 57 Volume (abbr.) 58 Sorbet 59 That girl 61 Car brand Solution on page 10

READY TO RALLY

Photos by Marc Anderson The 24th annual Kelly Youth Rally was held Aug. 21 and gathered junior high and high school students from more than a dozen rural parishes for an evening of faith, fun, food and fellowship.

s GOOD TIMES

From left, Degan Roggenbaum (partially obscured), Josie Haverkamp, Meleah Talley, Cora Thompson and Hay

s LET’S RIDE

From left, Parker Koch, Mason Stallbaumer and Wyatt Koch, all members of St. Patrick Parish in Corning, ride to the rally site courtesy of a trailer.

s THE KEYNOTE

Sarah Swafford, founder of Emotional Virtue Ministries, served as the main speaker for the rally and discussed dating and relationships.

s AUTOGRAPH SESSION

Lily Scultejeans signs Kate Heinen’s commemorative T-shirt. Both are members of St. Bede Parish in Kelly.

u TAKING IT IN

From left, Blaise Buessing, Rylin Buessing, Sawyer Deters, Grady Buessing and Owen Strathman, all of St. Michael Parish in Axtell, listen to Sarah Swafford.

s ROCK ON

The Josh Blakesley Band, featuring Josh Blakesley, provided musical entertainment for the Kelly Youth Rally Aug. 21.

s LET THE MUSIC FLOW

yden Kramer, all members of St. Patrick Parish in Corning, laugh at something speaker Sarah Swafford said.

Rally participants dance to the music of the Josh Blakesley Band. Hundreds of youth from the region turned out for the annual youth rally.

t NIGHT MASS

Left, Father Greg Hammes, pastor of Prince of Parish in Olathe, returned to his native Nemaha County and served as the main celebrant for the evening Mass. Concelebrating with Father Hammes are, from left: Father Arul Carasala, pastor of Sts. Peter and Paul Parish, Seneca; Father Matthew Francis, pastor of St. Patrick Parish, Corning; Father Quentin Schmitz, pastor of St. Gregory the Great Parish, Marysville; Father Jim Shaughnessy, pastor of St. Michael Parish in Axtell and Holy Family Parish in Summerfield; and Father Dan Morris, archdiocesan vocations director. The altar servers are: Lucas Korter and Kinzey Niehues, both of St. Bede Parish in Kelly.

t FOLLOWING UP

Left, Jacob Haefele, a member of St. Gregory Parish in Marysville, asks some follow-up questions of Sarah Swafford after her talk.

NATION

SEPTEMBER 17, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Catholic high school football coach emphasizes life skills By Sarah Wolf Catholic News Service

ORTLAND, Ore. (CNS) — The football program at Portland Central Catholic High School has impressive stats: multiple state championships, countless conference championships, nearly 70 players who went on to play football in college, five active players in the NFL and a 5-1 record in 2021’s truncated spring season. And that’s all just since 2003 when Steve Pyne became the Rams’ head coach. So when all is said and done, what will the program’s legacy be? “I like to think we’re giving kids basic life lessons and character values that they take beyond the field and apply to their everyday life,” said Pyne, who also teaches at the school. “Success is measured in a lot of different ways. The lowest common denominator for success to most people is wins and losses. For me, it’s more about where are these guys in 15 or 20 years? What kind of husbands and fathers and community members are they? If they’re doing well then and using some of the things we emphasize on a daily basis, that to me is success,” he told the Catholic Sentinel, newspaper of the Archdiocese of Portland. “That’s what I hope our legacy is, well beyond winning games,” he added. Pyne acknowledged that the school has long had talented players and excellent coaches. “Those things are cool and, don’t get me wrong, I like to win. But it is not the focus of what we do at all. We do not talk about winning and losing. We don’t set goals to win championships or anything like that,” he said. The parents want the program to be

CNS PHOTO/SARAH WOLF, CATHOLIC SENTINEL

Emerson Dennis, a senior at Central Catholic High School in Portland, Oregon, throws the ball during practice Aug. 5. more than wins as well. “Simply, we’re going to do our best to prepare these kids for the challenges in front of them,” Pyne said. When the coach took over the school’s football program, he thought it was his job to secure a state championship. The team had won league championships and made it to the quarterfinals in the playoffs. “But we couldn’t get past that,” Pyne recalled. So he looked deeply at the team, its values and what they were about. He determined the focus was on winning. So he decided to change that. Instead, he and the coaching staff put the players, their relationships and their experiences first. And the winning would come when it came. Jordan King, a senior on the team, started playing flag football in first grade and played wide receiver in grade

school. At Central Catholic, King said, academics and work ethic are stressed, but more so he is proud to know he will walk away with life skills. Zachery Grisham, another senior, also started playing football in first grade. Grisham loves the people he meets on the field, pointing to King, his friend and teammate. Football helps keep the teen focused. “Without football, I don’t know that I’d be the person I am,” Grisham said. As he approaches life after high school, Grisham discussed what he has learned playing at Central Catholic. “Coach Pyne,” he said, “is always telling us to be a better man, to be an asset to people.” The school’s football legacy extends beyond the current players.

TJ Salu graduated from Central Catholic in 2015. He then played football for the U.S. Naval Academy, graduating in 2020. Salu is now a Navy ensign, working as a weather specialist at Naval Base Coronado in San Diego. He said playing football at Central Catholic affected him in many ways. “Coach Pyne holds everybody to the same standard, the standard of excellence” on the field and in the classroom, Salu said. Salu told of how he missed an early morning workout and got an earful from Pyne afterward. “The standard he set for the program and all the players has really made that program successful throughout the years,” Salu said. Dedication to team counted just as much, he added, reflecting on the Rams’ call-and-response greeting when they met and when they parted ways: “How we going to do it? Together! Count on me!” “If you want to be successful [in football], you’re going to need your brothers to your left and right to help you. It’s not just going to be a ‘you’ thing,” Salu said. The same holds true in the Navy. “‘Together, count on me’ is always in the back of my mind. When your chief says you’ve got to be up at 5 a.m. ready to roll, you don’t want to be the guy sleeping in,” he laughed. “It’s just being a reliable, honorable person of integrity.” Three years ago, Pyne’s staff established core values in the form of an acronym: CRAFTED. C — Compete, R — Relationships, A — Accountability, F — Finish, T — Toughness, E — Execution and D — Dedication. It’s seen on every player’s practice shirt. “We want to be crafted individuals,” Pyne said. “If we’re teaching these kids those values, we’re going to have success.”

Visitors leave Flight 93 National Memorial with ‘sense of awe’ plane’s final flight path and view from a distance the impact site, marked by a sandstone boulder, which can only be visited by family members of the crew and passengers. “Sometimes you’ll see people praying on their own or you’ll see small pockets of people praying silently and holding hands,” Clark told Catholic News Service. He recalled a recent visit by firefighters from New York City and Shanksville that also included family members of people who died in the twin towers and on Flight 93. The group spontaneously prayed the Lord’s Prayer together. “Visitors often come here not knowing what to expect — they expect maybe to see a crater or parts of the plane — and they end up leaving here with a real sense of awe,” Clark said.

By Christina Lee Knauss Catholic News Service

wenty years ago, an abandoned strip mine in western Pennsylvania transformed in one shocking moment into a national shrine, a living testament to the courage of everyday Americans faced with a life-or-death choice. On Sept. 11, 2001, United Airlines Flight 93 from Newark, New Jersey, to San Francisco was hijacked by four al-Qaida terrorists. The plane’s passengers, after learning about other hijacked planes that were flown into the World Trade Center and the Pentagon earlier that morning, decided to fight back and storm the cockpit. At 10:03 a.m., the plane crashed into the site of the abandoned mine, a field in Stonycreek Township near Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Investigators later estimated the plane was traveling 563 mph when it hit the ground. The crash killed all 44 passengers and crew members, including the four hijackers. Today, this site is a serene, starkly beautiful memorial, a combination of sights and sounds that offer a testament to the event that changed the profile of this part of Pennsylvania forever. The dramatic events in the field about 80 miles southeast of Pittsburgh are sometimes hard to convey to those who don’t remember them because, unlike the horrors in New York City and Washington, they didn’t unfold on

CNS PHOTO/JASON COHN, REUTERS

Tiffney Miller, sister of United Flight 93 victim Nicole Miller, and her mother Cathy Stefani of San Jose, California, visit a memorial to Nicole at the Temporary Flight 93 Memorial near the crash site just outside Shanksville, Pennsylvania, Sept. 9, 2002. live television. “I think the world and the nation sometimes really don’t comprehend what happened here with Flight 93 because there weren’t really any vivid live images or any live video associated with the site,” said Stephen Clark, superintendent of the National Parks of Western Pennsylvania, which includes the Flight 93 National Memorial. “We can all remember the jetliners going into the buildings and the Pentagon because we saw it on TV. What was different about Shanksville

is most people only remember seeing an image of the smoldering outline and the smoke. What’s happened is that over the years the memorial has kind of taken on its own spirit.” The Flight 93 National Memorial site offers more than 400,000 visitors a year many different ways to learn and pay respects to the fallen. A visitor’s center includes a display of artifacts from the site, plus multimedia and interactive exhibits about Flight 93. The memorial plaza allows visitors the chance to walk beside the

Crossword solution

CALENDAR

SEPTEMBER 17, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

TOPEKA IRISH FEST - HALFWAY TO ST. PATRICK’S DAY 8th St. and Jackson, Topeka Sept. 18 from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Mater Dei Parish is hosting this event in downtown Topeka. The day starts with a 2.5 K fun run at 10 a.m. From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., there will be Irish food (including Patty’s Pockets), a beer garden, whiskey tasting, adult and children’s games, live bands and Irish dancing. The Topeka St. Patrick’s Day Parade will start at noon. All are invited to attend. For more information and to register for the 2.5 K, visit the website at: www.TopekaIrishFest.com.

MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR ABORTED CHILDREN Gate of Heaven Cemetery 126th and Parallel, Kansas City, Kansas Sept. 18 at 11 a.m.

Join together to remember the victims of abortion during the National Day of Remembrance for Aborted Children. For more information, call (785) 615-8373.

MEMORIAL LITURGY Curé of Ars Parish 9405 Mission Rd., Leawood Sept. 18 at 8 a.m.

There will be a memorial liturgy for deceased loved ones followed by a grief support meeting in the Father Burak Room. For more information, call (913) 649-2026.

FAMILY DAY AT PRAIRIE STAR RANCH Prairie Star Ranch 1124 California Rd., Williamsburg Sept. 19 from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Prairie Star Ranch is offering a chance to step away and enter into a day of prayer, adventure, outdoor activities and a time to reconnect. Families, friends and communities are invited to join us for a choice of horseback riding, canoeing, ropes activities and time for prayer. The experience will culminate with the celebration of Mass. All ages are welcome to this come-and-go-as-you-please event. Register online now or contact the team at Prairie Star Ranch at: www.archkck. org/ranch; call (785) 746-5693 or send an email to: psrministry@archkck.org.

C.O.R.E. GOLF EVENT Nicklaus Golf Club at LionsGate 14225 Dearborn St., Overland Park Sept. 20 at 10:30 a.m.

Come together with Catholics from across state lines to show support for the clergy of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and the Diocese of Kansas City - St. Joseph. The event is sponsored by C.O.R.E. and the Serra Club of Metro KC. Enjoy a round of golf, barbecue, drinks and prizes. Go online to: www.Celebrate OurReligious.org to register and see a schedule of events.

FALL AND HOLIDAY CRAFT AND BAKE SALE 501 S. Willow Dr., Olathe Sept. 23 - 25 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sept. 30 - Oct. 1 & 2 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Come find seasonal handmade crafts and homemade treats to enjoy while supporting a great cause. All proceeds go to the Olathe Pregnancy Clinic.

‘THE ADVENTURE OF YEA BUT: FORGIVENESS 101’ Church of the Ascension (St. Mark/St. Matthew Room) 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park Sept. 23 at 7 p.m.

There will be a 60-minute presentation of the film “The Adventure of Yea But, Forgiveness 101” with discussion after. Chuck Jansen, founder of The Forgiveness Institute

KC Inc., along with five of the “Yea But” faculty promise it will be an inspiring evening on a topic that needs to be explored in today’s world. Scripture, storytelling and 22 short video clips will be presented. COVID rules will be followed.

‘THE MIRACLE BOX’ Church of the Ascension (St. Mark/St. Matthew Room) 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park Sept. 24 at 7 p.m.

The 60-minute film “The Miracle Box” by Father John Clote will be shown. A discussion will be led by Chuck Jansen, founder of The Forgiveness Institute KC, Inc., who has a small part in the film. The film is set to be released the first week in October. COVID rules will be followed.

VITAE FOUNDATION PRO-LIFE EVENT Sheraton Overland Park Hotel at the Convention Center 6100 College Blvd., Overland Park Sept. 24 at 6:30 p.m.

Vitae Foundation’s pro-life event will feature speaker Mitch Holthus, the voice of the Kansas City Chiefs, who announced the last two Super Bowls. There will be dinner and a program at 7 p.m. The cost is $100 ($70 is tax deductible). The registration deadline is Sept. 17. For questions, contact Eddie Mulholland at (573) 634-4316. To register online, go to: vitaefoundation.org, click on “Events,” then on “Kansas City Pro-Life Event” and scroll down to the registration form.

WOMEN’S RETREAT WITH SONJA CORBITT Mother Teresa Parish 2014 N.W. 46th St., Topeka Sept. 25 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

This is a one-day retreat with Sonja Corbitt, the “Bible Study Evangelista.” The retreat will begin with a rosary. There will be talks and time for fellowship. Beverages, light snacks and lunch will be provided. There is no cost, but a freewill offering will be accepted. In order to assure that we have enough food, registration is required online at: www.mtcctopeka.org.

ROME SWEET HOME 2021 Christ the King Parish 5973 S.W. 25th St., Topeka Sept. 25 from 4:30 - 11 p.m.

There will be a 5K run, an outdoor Mass, LaRocca’s Italian dinner, food trucks, live music, kids activities, a Signature Fireworks display, a raffle, $10,000 sweepstakes, an online auction and more! For full details, visit the website at: ctktopeka.org/rome-sweet-home-2021.

SLOVENEFEST Holy Family Parish 274 Orchard St., Kansas City, Kansas Sept. 25 at 4 p.m.

Festivities will begin with Mass, followed by a Slovenian sausage dinner. There will be a silent auction, mega money raffle, children and adult games, cultural booths and souvenirs. Music and dancing will feature The Brian McCarty Band and Hrvaski Obicaj. All proceeds benefit Holy Family Parish. For more information, visit the website at: holyfamilychurchkck.org; find us on Facebook; or contact the parish office at (913) 371-1561. Social distancing practices will be in place to ensure the safety of our guests.

ANNUAL BAZAAR St. John the Baptist Parish (hall) 427 S. Prairie, Greeley Sept. 26 from 10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

There will be dine-in and takeout with masks optional, serving turkey and dressing, ham, potatoes and gravy, chicken and homemade noodles, and green beans.

There will also be apple salad, sauerkraut, homemade pies and bread. The cost will be $12 for adults; $6 for kids under 8. Takeout is $12. The venue is handicapped-accessible.

MEXICAN SUPPER Sacred Heart School 102 Cottonwood St., Emporia Oct. 1 from 4:30 - 7 p.m.

This will be a drive-thru-only Mexican supper. The menu will be will be tacos, rice, chips, fresh salsa and dessert. Tickets are $8 per person and can be purchased online at: shsemporia.org/mexican-supper or in person at the Sacred Heart Parish office at 27 Cottonwood St. Proceeds will be used to support the school’s students and staff. Please drive north off South Ave. on to Exchange St. for drive-thru meals.

LIBERATED BY TRUTH: PRO-LIFE CONFERENCE St. Michael the Archangel Parish 14251 Nall Ave., Leawood Oct. 2 from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Author and speaker Terry Beatley, who interviewed Dr. Bernard Nathanson, a former abortion rights activist, will share the tactics and strategy Nathanson said he used to deceive Americans. Learn how his powerful story and his Saul-to-St. Paul conversion can help us today as we work to defend life and pass the “Value Them Both” amendment in Kansas. For more information go online to: archkck. org/respect-life-month.

ANNUAL FALL BAZAAR St. Theresa Parish 209 3rd St., Perry Oct. 3 from 11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Turkey and ham dinners and homemade pie will be served in the parish hall or be available for carryout. The cost is $10 for adults and $5 for kids ages 10 and under. Outdoor activities include games for kids, a silent auction, a buy-it-now

11 tent, a cakewalk, a beer garden, barbecue and baked goods. There will be fun for all ages.

STRAWBERRY HILL ALTAR SOCIETY GOLF TOURNAMENT Sunflower Hills Golf Course 12200 Riverview Ave., Bonner Springs Oct. 4 at 1 p.m.

Save the date for the second annual Strawberry Hill Altar Society Golf Tournament. There will be a 1 p.m. shotgun start. The $100 entry fee includes a banquet dinner and free drinks. Contact Carol Shomin by email at: cshomin@everest kc.net or call (913) 897-4833 or send an email to Sandy Cannon at: csandysangels@ aol.com or call (913) 396-1564.

ESTATE PLANNING: PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR NOW AND 2022 Holy Spirit Parish 11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park Oct. 5 at 4:30 p.m.

The event will begin with a wine and cheese social at 4:30 p.m. and continue with speaker Casey Connealy, an estate planning attorney. He will discuss a series of practical matters to consider when planning your family’s will or trust.

VENERATION OF RELICS OF ST. PADRE PIO Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish 5501 Monticello Rd., Shawnee Oct. 7 from 8:15 a.m. - 7 p.m.

The rite of reception of the relics will begin after Communion during the 8:15 a.m. Mass. Open veneration of the relics will begin at 9 a.m. Father Pat Sullivan, pastor, will preside at a special Mass at 7 p.m. that will conclude the day of veneration. Feel free to bring a personal item (cross, rosary, etc.) to have a third-class relic of your own.

CLASSIFIEDS

12 EMPLOYMENT Bookkeeper/accountant -We are looking to add an experienced bookkeeper/accountant, 15 - 25 hours per week at $15 - $20 per hour. The right candidate will demonstrate a good understanding of Quickbooks and knowledge of basic to advance accounting practices. There is opportunity to grow in responsibilities and advancement. This position could move to a full-time position. Bellwether Tax & Accounting LLC has been providing tax and accounting services to the KC area for over 20 years. We strive to maintain an easy-going flexible work environment where we are serious about our client’s needs. Email resume and questions to: info@bellwethertax.com or call (913) 4404187. Executive director - Hot Lunch Service, Inc. (formerly St. Mary’s Food Kitchen) is seeking an executive director. The responsibilities include executing all day-today operations, including staffing, employee evaluations, budgeting, social media, equipment procurement and repair, and working with all coordinators whose groups provide the daily meals for our guests. Other key duties include fundraising, marketing and community outreach. The executive director reports directly to the board of directors. This position will be a full-time salaried position with benefits. Requirements include: bachelor’s or higher degree in business, a related field or its equivalent; food service experience is preferred; 3-5 years’ demonstrated history of leadership skills; 5 or more years of nonprofit 501(c)3 management experience working with a board of directors; demonstrated ability to communicate effectively in writing, verbally and through social media; solid organizational abilities such as planning, delegating and financial management. Interested candidates, please submit a current resume, letter of interest and references with contact information to: hotlunchserviceinc@gmail.com. Join the Santa Marta team - Santa Marta is recognized as a premier senior living community in Olathe. You will make a positive difference when you join the Santa Marta team. We are looking for part-time servers. Responsibilities include: serving meals to residents in a professional and hospitable manner in either independent living or health care neighborhoods; respectful interaction and communication with residents and co-workers is required; work with a team in a professional manner within dining and other departments; use proper food handling and cleaning techniques; setup and clean the dining rooms after each dining session. Part-time servers are normally scheduled for three to five shifts per week (evening from 4 - 8 p.m. and weekend breakfast, lunch and dinner shifts). Pay is $10 - $11 hourly rate depending upon relevant experience. Part-time associates earn paid time off for hours worked. Thank you for your interest in joining the Santa Marta team. Check out Santa Marta at: https://www.facebook. com/SantaMartaRetirement/. Spanish-speaking school secretary - Bishop Ward is seeking applicants for a Spanish-speaking secretary. Hours are 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. Must be welcoming, helpful and friendly. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: answering phones and the school doorbell for the front door; coordinating Title Fund requests for payment (RFP to KCK District 500); Virtus coordinator for the high school; liaison with parents for project graduation; sorting mail; and other duties as needed. Secretarial experience preferred; other experience will be considered. Send letter of interest, resume and references to Dr. Michelle Olson, principal, at: molson@wardhigh.org. Manufacturing jobs - IFF is a food manufacturing plant near Gardner that produces Essential FOOD INGREDIENTS for large food and beverage producing customers. Our products can be found in almost every kitchen cabinet in the U.S. We offer medical, dental and vision insurance, best in class 401(k) plan, 12 holidays plus 120 hours of vacation per year. There is also a discount on medical premiums of $500 per year, and basic life insurance is offered at no cost. Legal and pet insurance, free gym at work. We now offer a more competitive pay and a $2500 sign-on bonus plus a chance to win a $500 customizable prize. We take pride in our employee-driven culture and opportunities for advancement in pay and responsibilities with excellent job security. Apply today and join a winning team at: https://careers.iff.com/in Kansas. For additional questions or assistance, call (913) 620-5093. Part-time medical assistant - In search of a part-time medical assistant for private family medicine office in Leawood. Job responsibilities include: assisting with routine care; phlebotomy; and in-office procedures. Clinic hours are Tuesdays, 5:30 to 9 p.m., and Saturdays, 9 a.m. to noon. October start date. To apply, please send resume to: jsfmc@jsaxermd.com. Visit: jsaxermd.com for more info. (Parishioner St. Michael the Archangel) Part-time custodian - The Didde Catholic Campus Center currently has an employment opportunity for a parttime custodian. Performance standards, requirements and application are available on the Didde website at: www.diddecenter.org. Applications may be submitted through: contact@diddecenter.org. Review of applications will continue until the position is filled. Organist and/or choir director - St. John the Baptist Parish is seeking an organist to accompany the adult SATB choir on a 16-rank organ and a director for the established adult choir for weekly rehearsal and Sunday Mass. Knowledge of Catholic liturgy preferred. Send letter of interest, resume and references to Mariann at: sjbcc.choir@gmail.com.

Cafeteria assistants - Nativity Parish School is seeking two part-time cafeteria assistants for the 2021-22 school year. The assistants will be responsible for operating a computer using a meal tracking system by scanning and entering lunch cards at mealtime among other duties. The positions will be two or three days a week, approximately 12 - 15 hours per week. They will also fill in for other cafeteria staff when needed. Please email your resume, interest and availability to Julie Bloomingdale, cafeteria director, at: julie.bloomingdale@kcnativity.org. Service Technician - Would you like to be part of the success of a small growing local company? Seeking individuals looking for flexible part time work maintaining and repairing small equipment for our established family company. Service is completed at customers’ locations and electrical knowledge is a plus. Position involves regional travel with 50% overnight stays, some lightweight lifting and walking; dependable transportation is a must. Positive attitude, dependability, time management and self-motivation skills, as well as being quality and customer oriented, are required. We need go-getters willing and ready to work! Please send resume to: Your career101@gmail.com. Head of Operations - St. John Paul II Parish, Olathe, is seeking an experienced, motivated and faithful person with a pioneering spirit to collaborate with the pastor and the parish at large to fulfill the mission of forming and developing the newest parish in the Archdiocese. The head of operations is responsible for the care and management of the temporal affairs of the parish. As a member of the Church staff, this position will supervise, coordinate, and perform the administrative functions of finance and accounting; management of facility and property; management of human resources, office services and management. Full-time, salaried and exempt position with benefits. Please send resume and cover letter to: frfarrar@jp2kc.org. Nurse intake coordinator - The position of Allied Health intake coordinator is responsible for building relationships with area schools, health facilities and the community at large to recruit prospective students who are interested in the health field. The successful candidate will help students understand career paths within the health care industry, particularly those related to CNA, LPN and RN licenses and guide students along academic paths in these areas. This position works closely with the director of nursing in candidate selection for both the nursing and CNA programs. Qualified candidates should have an associate degree with health care-related experience required, bachelor’s degree preferred; maintain confidentiality of health care paperwork and sensitive information provided by students who apply for a seat in the Allied Health programs; understand nursing profession and Allied Health curriculum and experience advising students; be aware of the impact of cultural patterns on student retention and student learning; have the ability to work collaboratively with faculty, administrators, students, staff; proficient in Microsoft Office products; be detail-oriented; and be philosophically aligned with the mission and values of the college to engage and support our Catholic identity. Practicing Roman Catholic preferred. Please email your cover letter, resume and transcripts to: hr@donnelly.edu with “Nurse intake coordinator” in the subject line. Maintenance supervisor - Facility and grounds: Prince of Peace in Olathe is seeking an individual for maintenance supervisor. This person is responsible for routine campus maintenance, including minor building repair, general maintenance, grounds maintenance, landscape maintenance and support building operation activities. If interested, send resume to John Meyers at: jmeyers@ popolathe.org or call (913) 747-7706. Part-time delivery driver needed - Kansas City Bathroom Remodeling, located in Lenexa, has a need for a part-time delivery driver to pick up and deliver materials in the Johnson County, Kansas, area. A company vehicle will be provided. A clean driving record, with a valid license is a MUST! On occasion, you will need to lift up to 50 pounds. This position will be two - three days per week, approximately 10 - 20 hours per week. We are a premier bathroom and basement remodeling company in KC. We offer competitive pay and a fun, stable, team environment! Hurry . . . this job won’t last! Contact Lisa at (913) 701-2500! Drivers and aides - Assisted Transportation is now hiring safe drivers and aides to transport students with special needs in Johnson, Wyandotte and Clay County, Missouri, in company vans. Drivers earn $14 - $16 per hour. Aides earn $12 per hour. Part-time and full-time schedules available. CDL not required. Retirees encouraged to apply. Make a difference in your community by helping those in need. Call (913) 521-4955 for more information. EEO Part-time custodial position - Prince of Peace Parish, Olathe, is seeking an individual that is available weekends, along with some weekday afternoons and evenings. The custodian is responsible for day-to-day cleaning activities, as well as event setup and tear down associated with the parish and school. If interested, please contact John Meyers at: jmeyers@popolathe.org or call (913) 747-7706. Skilled remodeler - Kansas City Remodel is seeking a skilled remodeler. We need a great 40-hour per week, W-2 employee, with their own tools, that can join our family on a permanent basis. Competitive pay and benefits. Email resume to: workorders@kansascityremodel.com.

Director of religious education - St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, is seeking a director of religious education to coordinate the school of religion programs, including first Communion and confirmation preparation. A background in religious education and catechist formation is preferred. Spanish language skills are a plus. For a job description and an application, contact Abby Drath at the St. Patrick Parish office at (913) 299-3370 or by email at: adrath@stpatrickkck.org. Fifth grade teacher - St. Ann is seeking a 5th grade homeroom teacher for the 2021-22 school year. This teacher will be responsible for teaching 5th grade religion and 5th/6th grade social studies classes. Applicants should apply online through the archdiocesan website, at: www.archkck.org/jobs, and email principal Liz Minks at: lminks@stannpv.org. Executive director/community leader of L’Arche Heartland - The mission of L’Arche Heartland is: Make known the gifts of people with intellectual disabilities, revealed through mutually transforming relationships; foster an environment in community that responds to the changing needs of our members; and engage in our diverse cultures, working together toward a more human society. The community leader is responsible for guiding L’Arche Heartland in living authentically the mission and values of L’Arche in its commitment to community among adults with and without intellectual disabilities, finding spirituality in its daily life, while simultaneously maintaining strict compliance with all licensing requirements. This person ensures that the needs of adults with intellectual disabilities are met and that their gifts are promoted both within the L’Arche Heartland community and in the wider environs. The community leader leads the implementation of the community mandate consistent with the identity and mission of L’Arche. This individual leads, manages and administers the daily operations of the community in order to meet the financial, legal and quality standards expected from the governmental authorities. Key responsibilities include: Nurture the spiritual life of the community; assure state compliance as a licensed provider of Home and Community Based Supports for Residential and Day Service on the Kansas I/DD Medicaid waiver (adherence to Kansas Article 63); guarantee the quality of care for 37 adults with intellectual disabilities; build and develop a vibrant community life; raise funds, develop the community and manage its finances; promote the message of L’Arche; manage human resources; work with other L’Arche communities; and work with L’Arche Heartland board of directors. Requirements include: a bachelor’s or higher degree in a field of human services; work experience in the area of human services; certification that the organization’s chief director of services is qualified to supervise the delivery of a program of services to persons; at least one year of experience in a senior management-level position with a licensed provider; at least two years of experience as either a case manager or a services manager; at least five years of experience delivering direct care services to persons; and three letters of reference concerning the organization’s chief director of services. Interested candidates please submit a letter of interest, a current resume and references with contact information to the L’Arche Heartland discernment/search team at: harmony@larcheks.org. Position open until filled. Full-time assistant teachers - With multiple locations in Johnson County, Special Beginnings Early Learning Center provides high quality child care in a safe, loving Christian environment. With a balanced curriculum of pre-academics and the right environment, we believe we are providing the children the foundation to a successful life. We are looking for full-time assistant teachers for all ages who have an excellent work ethic, a heart for children and a willingness to learn more about early childhood education. Experience and/or education is a plus, but we will train the right candidate. Duties include supervising and ensuring the safely and well-being of the children at all times; following predetermined curriculum and daily schedule; decorating the class and keeping classrooms clean and orderly; creating and filling out daily reports for each child; communicating with parents; meeting children’s basic needs (diapers, bottles, etc.). Must be patient and able to respond to difficult situations calmly; have good interpersonal skills with co-workers, parents and children; and be able to lift 25 pounds on a regular basis. There are opportunities for career advancement. For more information or to apply, call Carolyn Andruss at (913) 894-0131, option 3. Advancement officer - Donnelly College is looking for a driven advancement officer to join the college’s advancement team. This exciting opportunity requires an individual who is attentive to details, works well with a diverse array of constituencies, enjoys meeting people, works well individually and as part of a team. Responsibilities include: serve as integral member of the advancement team with the primary goal of securing major gifts to support Donnelly’s mission and vision through new and existing donor prospects; manage the cultivation cycle leading to the successful solicitation and securing of major gifts for annual fund, capital projects, endowment, event sponsorships and planned gifts; manage (and help grow) a portfolio of major gift prospects (up to 125 in portfolio); develop and coordinate major gift prospect strategies with donor database analyst, annual fund coordinator, vice president of advancement and, when appropriate, the president of the college; schedule and hold individual meetings with prospects and donors to qualify interest and capacity; create individualized prospect engagement and stewardship plans for all constituents in your portfolio; recruit membership into the Jerome Society by securing annual gifts of $1,000 and above. Please email your cover letter, resume and transcripts to: hr@donnelly.edu with “Advancement officer” in the subject line.

SEPTEMBER 17, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG WE LOVE OUR TEACHERS - COME SEE WHY YOU WANT TO WORK HERE! - The Goddard School Olathe Northwest is looking for dynamic, energetic, professional teachers to add to our faculty. The Goddard School is a premiere preschool for children from 6 weeks to 6 years where children are encouraged to develop at their own pace in nurturing environments, lovingly guided by our highly skilled, professional teachers. Full- and part-time positions available. No experience? We will train the right person. Ask about our $600 hiring bonus. Janice Kennedy, owner. Email: olathe2ks@goddardschools.com or call (913) 768-4499. Join the Robeks Juice team! - We are in need of three four team members for the 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. shift, three four days during the week. This is a fun place to work and NO WEEKENDS. Applicants should possess: an outgoing personality; be a team player; have computer proficiency; excel in a fast-paced environment; be a self-starter; have reliable transportation and an abundance of positive vibes! If interested, contact Cole at: Robeksop@ gmail.com. Coaches - Bishop Miege High School is seeking coaches for the 2021-22 school year in the following sports: assistant baseball; assistant boys wrestling; and assistant girls wrestling. Contact Joe Schramp, athletic director, at: jschramp@bishopmiege.com or (913) 222-5802. Director of development and stewardship - St. John Church and School in Lawrence seeks a full-time director of development and stewardship. The director will develop and administer development plans to ensure the long-term viability of the church and school. The director will oversee all advancement activities necessary by building relationships with a broad range of parishioners, parents, alumni, volunteers and community members. Candidates with three to five years of fundraising experience and bilingual (English and Spanish) are preferred. Please see full job description and requirements at: www.sjevangelist.com. This position is eligible for an archdiocesan benefits package. Please send cover letter and resume to Father John Cousins at: frjohn@ sjevangelist.com or mail to: 1229 Vermont St., Lawrence, KS 66044. Hiring part-time bus drivers - Look at the incredible opportunities! Sign-on bonus! $1500 (non-CDL drivers); $3000 for CDL drivers. 1) Starting pay is $17.50 - $18 per hour for 0 - 2 years’ experience; $18.25 - $23.19 per hour for 3 - 20 years’ experience. 2) Paid training and development (bring your children to training and save on day care fees.) 3) Bring your children to ride along on your routes with our Ride-Along Program. 4) 401(k) with company match. 5) Must be 21 years or older and driving for at least three years. 6) Must have excellent driving and criminal record. We pay the same rate for our trips as we do for driving school routes! Apply online at: www. careers.nellc.com or in person at: Durham Blue Valley, 7321 W. 135th St., Overland Park. (913) 681-2492. Nursing faculty - A full-time nursing faculty position carries the primary responsibility of helping students to master subject material and skills that will contribute to their personal and intellectual development and success in the nursing program. This person works with the director of nursing to schedule coursework/activities that will help students to complete their goal of becoming health care professionals and to support the program. Must be able to pass a background check and complete Virtus training. Qualifications include: MSN or BSN with MSN in progress; unencumbered Kansas nursing license; committed to diversity and serving a diverse population; ability to communicate well and assist students in gaining practice and knowledge in the clinical situation; adult teaching experience preferred; excellent leadership and communication skills; experience with instructing technology-based courses; alternative teaching strategies preferred; demonstrate a thorough and accurate knowledge of use of electronic communication and audiovisual equipment; philosophically aligned with the mission and values of the college to engage and support our Catholic identity. Please email your cover letter, resume and transcripts to: hr@donnelly.edu with “Nursing instructor” in the subject line. Office assistant - Looking for a change? We have the job for you! And not just any job, but one where you’ll make a difference! Come join our family-owned small company located in the Kansas City area for the past 40 years. We are looking for someone who is organized, detail-oriented, self-motivated, customer-friendly and has a willingness to go that extra mile. Job tasks are mainly invoicing, filing, answering phones, scheduling, receiving/shipping (small packages), vendor relations and customer service. We need a trustworthy and dependable employee who’s ready to work and has a great attitude! Send your resume to: YourCareer101@gmail.com. Caregivers - Daughters & Company is looking for several compassionate caregivers to provide assistance to seniors in their home, assisted living or in a skilled nursing facility. We provide light housekeeping/light meal preparation, organizational assistance, care management and occasional transportation services for our clients. We need caregivers with reliable transportation and a cellphone for communication. A CNA background is helpful, though not mandatory. We typically employ on a part-time basis, but will strive to match up hours desired. Contact Gary or Laurie at (913) 341-2500 if you want to become part of an excellent caregiving team. >> Classifieds continue on page 13

CLASSIFIEDS

SEPTEMBER 17, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG >> Continued from page 12 Assistants - Assistants needed to provide support for developmentally disabled adults in a day program setting. Hours are 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. five days a week. Health, dental and vision premiums paid in full after two months of employment. Join us for meaningful, fulfilling relationships with our community. Larcheks.org. Instructional assistant - St. Ann School in Prairie Village is seeking an instructional assistant. The ideal candidate would be available 20 - 29 hours per week and will be supporting both students and teachers. Interested candidates, please contact St. Ann principal Liz Minks at: lminks@stannpv.org. Career positions at Ryan Lawn - Full-time career positions at Ryan Lawn & Tree for people who have a passion for plants, working outdoors and customer service. Put your degree to work in the outdoors. We are faith-based and 100% employee-owned. We offer careers in forestry (both plant healthy and pruning), turf, pest and landscaping. With 350 associates in five branches, we have growth careers for the right people. We expect a lot. We can teach you our industry if you want to learn and are willing to work hard. If you or someone you know is interested, apply online at: RyanLawn.com. Receptionist/administrative assistant – St. John the Baptist in Kansas City, Kansas, is seeking a part-time receptionist. This position will be Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. This position is responsible for receiving all calls and visitors, sorting mail, compiling the weekly bulletin and other clerical duties as assigned. Ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic in good standing. High school diploma required and at least three years of secretarial or administrative experience. Must be able to provide hospitality and efficient response to all calls and visitors. To apply, please visit: www.stjohnthebaptistcatholicchurch.com. Bookkeeper- St. John the Baptist and Holy Family parishes in Kansas City, Kansas, are seeking a part-time bookkeeper. This position is responsible for managing the finances of the parish, such as payroll, accounts payable, financial reporting for finance council and other bookkeeping needs. This position will have flexible hours. Bachelor’s degree in accounting or closely related field required; minimum three to five years’ previous accounting/bookkeeping experience required; proficiency in QuickBooks, Excel and Word; knowledge of or experience in nonprofit accounting preferred. To apply, please visit: www.stjohnthebaptistcatholicchurch.com. Receptionist – The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking a part-time receptionist for the chancery offices. This position will be two to three days a week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. This position is responsible for operating the main switchboard, receiving all calls and visitors to the chancery, sorting mail and other clerical duties as assigned. Ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic in good standing. High school diploma. Must be able to provide hospitality and efficient response to all calls and visitors to the chancery offices. To apply, please visit: www. archkck.org/jobs.

SERVICES Senior Care Authority - Navigating senior care options can be overwhelming. We’ll help you sort through and understand all your care and living options and point you to vetted resources. Placement assistance is FREE. We do a thorough assessment, do all the research and walk with you as you make these big decisions for you or your loved one. Call (913) 359-8580. Bellwether Tax & Accounting – We have been providing service to the KC area for over 20 years and carry an A+ rating with the BBB. We specialize in individual and small business tax preparation. Our focus is servicing our clients’ total needs. We provide: tax preparation and planning, Medicare & Social Security consulting, core financial security Analysis for both individuals and businesses, business development strategies, Employee Incentive Programs, and more. Our fees are reasonable and our service is superior. Call: (913) 440-4187. Email: info@ bellwethertax.com Handyman - I wanted to let you all know that we do basement finishes, deck building, bathroom and kitchen remodeling. This includes tile work, cabinet refinishing, and any sheetrock work. We also do all things flooring, siding, windows, doors, covered porches, sheds and much more. I really appreciate all your support. Please call Joshua Doherty at (913) 709-7230. 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 http://www. montemacedisability.org. Next level Design & Remodelling and More llc. 10 to 40% off Exterior, Interior painting Hard surface flooring, remolding Call (913) 709-8401. Free estimates. Masonry work - Quality new or repair work. Brick, block and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; second-generation bricklayer. Member of St. Paul Parish. Call (913) 271-0362.

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.teresakiddlaw.com. Please do not wait until life seems hopeless before getting good quality legal advice that may solve your financial stress. ACT Prep - Founded by a Bishop Miege graduate, Pathway Prep has helped over 250 students during the last four years improve their scores. In-person or virtual sessions available. For more information, visit: pathwayprepkc.com and contact Alex Pint at (913) 9918217 or: alex@pathwayprepkc.com. Mike Hammer local moving - A full-service mover. Packing, pianos, rental truck load/unload, storage container load/unload and in-home moving. No job too small. Serving JoCo since 1987. St. Joseph, Shawnee, parishioner. Call Mike at (913) 927-4347 or send an email to: mike@mikehammermoving.com. Custom countertops - Laminates installed within 5 days. Cambria, granite, and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 9625058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee. Memory quilts - Preserve your memories in a keepsake quality quilt, pillows, etc. Custom designed from your Tshirt collection, baby clothes, sports memorabilia, neckties . . . Quilted Memories. (913) 649-2704.

We buy houses and whole estates - We are local and family owned, and will make you a fair cash offer. We buy houses in any condition. No fees or commissions and can close on the date of your choice. Selling your house as is never felt so good. Jon & Stacy Bichelmeyer (913) 599-5000 Tired of being a landlord? I’ll buy it. Call Mark Edmondson (913) 980-4905 Local parishioner. CASH FOR YOUR HOME (913) 980-4905 Any condition in the metro area Mark Edmondson - local parishioner http://www.buykcproperty.com Wanting to sell but cannot afford the updates on your home to maximize your profit? - Do not give away the equity you worked hard for! We are a one-of-a-kind real estate team with a contracting business we offer our sellers. Please reach out to Natalie McCarter for more information. (913) 909-1893. Get Instant Cash Offer on Your Johnson County Home! Skip the Showings Move on Your Schedule Low Fee Structure Get Started Today! www.FullPriceHomeSale.com OFFER CODE KS01

CAREGIVING Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation for seniors in their home, assisted living or nursing facilities. We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 3412500 and speak with Laurie, Pat or Gary. Caring Christian companion - I’m a retired licensed practical nurse (LPN) with 20-plus years of nursing experience caring for youth to elderly facing medical challenges. I will work for you in-home, assisted living or nursing home. I am qualified to transport to and from physicians or therapy and personal trips. References from past employers are available. I am someone who is caring, honest and dependable. Call Barbara at (913) 645-3779. Family member with dementia or need help at home? - We specialize in helping seniors live SAFELY at home, where they want to live! We also offer free dementia training and resources for families and caregivers. Benefits of Home - Senior Care, www.Benefitsofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591. Caring companion - I am a certified nursing assistant with 10 plus years experience with stroke, Alzheimer’s, and dementia patients. I assist with personal care services and offer nonemergency medical transportation. Can works nights 10 p.m. - 6 a.m. or 11 p.m. - 7 a.m. three or four nights a week. Call (913) 558-9061.

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

HOME IMPROVEMENT 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 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. Popcorn ceiling texture removal Interior wall painting specialist. Jerry at (913) 206-1144. 30 years’ experience. Call with questions Local Handyman - Painting int. and ext., wood rot, masonry (chimney repair), gutter cleaning (gutter covers), dryer vent cleaning, sump pump (replace, add new), windows, doors (interior and exterior) honey-do list and more! Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118. 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: smokey cabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.

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 St. Joseph Cemetery, St. Joseph Garden, lot 32, section D, spaces 1 and 2. Asking $2700 plus transfer fee. Call (913) 638-3290.

WANTED TO BUY Wanted to buy -Do you have a car or truck that you need to get rid of? If you do, CALL ME! I’m a cash buyer. We’re Holy Trinity parishioners. My name is Mark. (913) 980-4905. Wanted to buy - Antique/vintage jewelry, paintings, pottery, sterling, etc. Single pieces or estate. Renee Maderak, (913) 475-7393. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee. Will buy firearms and related accessories - One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee.

REAL ESTATE 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.

Mass at 9 a.m. Saturday Oct. 2

Prince of Peace Chapel Resurrection Cemetery 83rd and Quivira Rd. Lenexa, Kan.

Holy Trinity Chapel

Holy Redeemer Chapel

Mt. Calvary Cemetery 801 SW Westchester Rd. Topeka, Kan.

Gate of Heaven Cemetery 126th and Parallel Kansas City, Kan.

For persons buried or entombed from May 1, 2020, through Sept. 10, 2021 at one of our Catholic Cemeteries in Northeast Kansas MT CALVARY KCK Virginia Adrian Manuel Becerra, Jr. Donald Bozich Michael F. Braun Michael Brimer Kenneth Clauder Marvin Clem Gerald D. Davis Alvaro Christopher Delgado-De La Rosa Doug D. Duetscher Mary L. Ferbezar Beatrice Fernandez Enrique Fernandez Helen Foster Margaret Fraundorfer Dorothy Marie Frith Maxine Galindo Benjamin Garcia Rafaela Garcia Ruth Golubski Berenice A. Goodman George Gorman Michelle Gosserand Carlene Gray Richard Lee Hagen Mary Hibbs Joan Marie Horvat Reina Ibarra Sister Luisa Irizarry Loarn Francis Jeanneret Evelyn Jors Daniel Krisman Hermann Kump Joseph Ledesma Kenneth C. Longdon III Albaro M. Lozano Zorka Malic Rita Manning Raul Marron Sr. Monzerrat Martine-Lopez Howard R. McCall Lottie M. Norman Dorothy Oberle Leon J. Otten Agnes Ann Phelps Mary T. Pope John R. Pretz Joseph Jesse Quijas Patrice C. Sweet Ramirez Estaben Rea Guadalupe Rios Frances Rodina Paul Rodriguez Fletcher D. Sapp ‘Maggie’ J. Sedler Cheryl D. Stimach Emil Stimetz John Swanson Shawn Tinoco Leonel Vasquez Sr. Isidro Viveros Gloria E. Walters John T. Walters RESURRECTION John L. Adams Timothy Aguilar Sr. Richard A. Alexander Mark A. Augustyn William Barenberg Riley Walker Barnes Timothy Bauer Charles W. Baumgartner

Harold J. Berntsen John Bendfelt Suzanne P. Beseau-Lynn Caroline Antoinette Betzler Belinda Bialek Catherine Ann Bingert Mary L. Blair William Boothe Margaret T. Bozich Bernard Braun Gerald Brunet Eleanor Burns John W. Burns Janet Burton Baby Byrd Minerva D. Cabanas Judith Cavanaugh Robert Chambers Zelie Dolores Christensen Jeffrey Alan Clark Diane Clement Loretta Coffey Rosemarie Collier Carolyn Marie Conrow Dale O. Coonrod Catherine Cormaci Paul Russell Daly James Boyer Davis Matthew David Deckard Madison Doresky Kitty Douglas Elizabeth L. Dreiling Mary Engelken Christopher English Linda G. Evans David L. Ewert Jose M. Fernandez Cira Garcia-Ferrer Howard Flint Pamela Donovan Fowler Robert Gaughan Abebech Gebre Lorraine W. Gerard Sandra Giannotti Richard Glasscock Ebe Godines Binyan Fekadu Gurmu Letha L. Hance John J. Heiling Baby Hernandez Bernice E. Hildenbrand Lisa A. Hoard Marlyn “John” Hoffman Thomas John Hogan Sara Jane Lodigensky Holliday Peter Holtzapfel Dan W. Howe David Charles Huff Jr. Kathleen Huff Gerard K. Hulshof Ellen Johnson Francis Karr Herbert Kaeberle Thomas Kilbride Bernice Klein John E. Klusman Darlene Krizman Sue Krizman Robert Daniel Kunz Dolores Larson Angelique Lawrence Wai Chun Lau Rosemary Irene Leahy Cody Allen Van Lerberg

Robert Lippold Howard Lynch David Martin Carol J. McAulay Kelly Ann McCoy Bernice A. McDonald Xavier McDonald Dennis M. McGuire Betty McKelvy Paul K. McNally Bayley Lynn Meuse Patrick Mead Robert Charles Meehan William C. Meyer David P. Miles Kathleen Monteil Maria Jo Moore James L. Morris Joe Moritz Ninfa Moritz Frances Morris Vernon Nail Theresa Navickas Susannah ‘Peg’ Nelson Niem Dinh Nguyen Michael Novosel Conn O’Rourke Patricia Payne Artie K. Pippen Luis Alejandro Gonzalez- Polanco Steven M. Postol Joan M. Postol James Reece Mark W. Reed James E. Remer Andrew Reyes Walter Reyhle Catherine Reynolds Dorothy Riehle Cecelia M. Rinehart Daniel Ritter Maxine Ritter Gerda Kathe Rusnak Richard Rusnak Donna S. Sawyer Ronald Seitter Pauline Shank Jerome Sheehan Patricia Skinner James D. Slaven Dan Spencer Jr. Richard Sprague Joan Stallbaumer Jean Stalcup Jean Stemmermann John R. Stepanich Kristi Switzer Todd Temoshek Joan Marie Thum Gerald D. Thornbrugh John Joseph Tomei Eloina Torres Cheryl Trotter Elizabeth “Betty” Uko Aleen Venturella Richard Barry Weeks Felicity Ann White William Stephen White James F. Zipf ST JOSEPH David Brower Gabriela Carrillo Melissa Delzeit

Anna M. Derks Margaret Dowell Brent Drabik Constance Klein Catherine E. Locke John J. Miller William Pearson Clarine A. Pflumm Fox Margaret E. Struzzo Judith Sumpter Colleen Thebo Shoua Lue Vang Thomas W. Waters ST. JOHN LENEXA Mary Houpt MT CALVARY OLATHE Marceda M. Bevins John Hadel Mary Beth Hudson Gilbert Joseph Keiter Kevin T. Rew Rodney Schieffer GATE OF HEAVEN John Burke Hector M. Delgado Rogelio Flores-Lujan Judith L. Godell Martin Gorman Blia Fang Lo Catherine E. Locke Deloris Mark Bertha Kay Mellott Mary Mikesic Mary Alyce Mitchell Edward Novak Barbara Palcher Elizabeth L. Rezin Robert Sullivan Michael L. Tiszka SR. Mike Zeljeznjak MT CALVARY TOPEKA Margaret Allen Lois Andres Craig Andres Sara Appelhanz Leonor “Bebe” Bahr Donald Boos Imelda Boyden Michael Brady Grace Burghart Josephine Callan Michael Carson Daniel Conley Carol Cutting Leandra Davis Mariann Desch Irene Flores Gary Flowers

John Folds Jr. Walter Foresman Jack E. Freeman Antonio Galvan Teresa Galvan Kerry M. Gasper Nathan Andrew Gawdun John Gerhardt Elida Gibbons Lockie Griffin Derald Hatesohl Jose Hernandez Janice Hexdall Steve Hillard Dexter Ray Robert Hulse Miro Jadirc Gerald Lee Karnes Beverly Ann Kohake Barbara Creek-Kramer Albert L. Lord Raymond Ludwig Barbara Martinez Lavina J. McCall Peter Meier John Messer Steven Nail Robert D. Padilla Salvador Alvarez Panuco Gary L. Parnell Bruce A. Pfeiffer Michelle Rangel Richard Rangel Beatrice Rocha Armin Ross Stephen A. Sachs Eugene Schiefelbein Jr. John Shaw Margaret Slusser Paul Slusser Elaine R. Southard Pamela Stadler Joan Stringer Monica J. Sullivan Steven Taylor Thomas Tenbrink Miguel Trujillo Scott A. Twidwell Placido Vargas Don Villalobos Donna Villalobos Greg K. Villegas Ross Weber Dorothy Weir Catherine Whitaker Orvis Wilcox Dallas Williams Donald Wilson Lavada ‘Dinky’ Wohrna Thomas Woltkamp Norma Worland Guadalupe Zarazua

913-371-4040

information@cathcemks.org www.cathcemks.org

COLUMNISTS

Holiness is all in your ‘shed’

DAILY READINGS TWENTY-FIFTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Sept. 19 TWENTY-FIFTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Wis 2: 12, 17-20 Ps 54: 3-4, 5-8 Jas 3:16 – 4:3 Mk 9: 30-37 Sept. 20 Andrew Kim Tae-Gon, priest, and Paul Chong Ha-Sang, and companions, martyrs Ezr 1: 1-6 Ps 126: 1b-6 Lk 8: 16-18 Sept. 21 MATTHEW, APOSTLE, EVANGELIST Eph 4: 1-7, 11-13 Ps 19: 2-5 Mt 9: 9-13 Sept. 22 Wednesday Ezr 9: 5-9 (Ps) Tb 13: 2-4, 7-8 Lk 9: 1-6 Sept. 23 Pius of Pietrelcina, priest Hg 1: 1-8 Ps 149: 1b-6a, 9b Lk 9: 7-9 Sept. 24 Friday Hg 2: 1-9 Ps 43: 1-4 Lk 9: 18-22 Sept. 25 Saturday Zec 2: 5-9, 14-15a (Ps) Jer 31: 10-12b, 13 Lk 9: 43b-45

Andrew Kim Tae-gon 1821-1846 Andrew was among the 103 Korean Martyrs — 92 Koreans and 11 Europeans — killed during a persecution from 18391866. Born to parents who were Catholic converts, Andrew completed seminary studies in Macao and in 1845 was the first native Korean to become a Catholic priest with his ordination in Shanghai. After returning to Korea, he tried to smuggle more missionaries into the country but was arrested in 1846. He spent three months in prison, then was beheaded. His father also was among the Korean Martyrs canonized in 1984.

h, sweet summertime, when the days are long and the livin’ is easy! For most of us, summer ended with Labor Day weekend. However, the season officially lasts until Sept. 22, when we enter into fall. While some folks prefer to use the word “autumn,” I’ll stick with fall. The word’s origin references this time of year when the leaves fall. Those trees that will soon begin to shed their leaves remind me that I’m called to shed as well. This story explains what I mean: A student approached the Teacher and asked, “When Jesus told the man to sell all that he had and give it to the poor, did he mean that we must get rid of everything?” The Teacher answered with a story: “Once there was a man who listened to the Scriptures. One day,

SEPTEMBER 17, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

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.

he heard Jesus quoted as saying to the rich man, ‘Go! Sell all that you have, give to the poor and you will have riches in heaven. Then, come follow me.’ “The man stiffened. This was a lesson to him for he, like the rich man, was seeking salvation. First, he sold his car. After he gave the money away, he again listened and heard Jesus say, ‘Sell all!’

“Next, he sold his house. After he gave the money away, he listened again and heard Jesus say, ‘Sell all!’ “All that he had left was his Bible, which he sold for a few dollars. When he gave the money away, he again listened. This time, he heard nothing.” The student said, “Teacher, I don’t understand the story. Why did the man hear nothing?” The Teacher answered, “He heard nothing because he sold the one thing that brought him the voice of God. We are not asked to rid ourselves of those things that

draw us close to the heart of God. Jesus told the man to sell everything because his possessions were an idol. We must rid ourselves of whatever stands in the way of God. Now, you must decide whether the things you own bring you close to — or separate you from — God.” (Story found in William R. White’s “Stories for the Journey.”) The changing from summer to fall is an ideal time to ask: What things keep me from being close to God? What do I need to shed? An easy place to start is with our wardrobe. As we unpack our fall clothes, examine them. How many sweaters do you really need? How many do you actually wear? Do the same with jackets, hoodies and coats, stocking hats, gloves and scarves — piling the excess ones and those hardly-ever-worn into a donate

pile. “Shedding” these items and giving them to your favorite charities right away allows those organizations to be prepared when needy people come through their doors as the temperatures drop. (And when I do it, it keeps me from holding on to items “just in case” — as in, just in case I magically lose 50 pounds so I can fit into them again!) But beyond material possessions, fall invites us to shed sinful attitudes that separate us from God and others — gossip, greediness, selfishness, anger, busyness, etc. Think you can’t survive without all your stuff? Take to heart this monk’s wise words to a retreatant at the monastery. Showing the man to his room, the guest master said, “If there’s anything that you need, please let us know . . . and we’ll teach you how to live without it!”

Jesus would have us turn our ambitions upside down

ew people reached out in love of poor, abandoned children as St. Teresa of Kolkata did. Known for her radical love of the poorest of the poor and her embrace of a life of poverty and total trust in God, this saintly woman rescued and cared for orphaned, abandoned and destitute children around the world. She fed starving children struck by famines in Ethiopia, comforted young victims of radiation from the Chernobyl nuclear disaster and rushed to the aid of earthquake survivors in Armenia. When the media asked for explanations of why she and

JEM SULLIVAN Sullivan is a professor at The Catholic University of America.

her religious Sisters embraced destitute children, the elderly poor and the suffering, Mother Teresa once said, “We are not social workers, not teachers, not nurses or

doctors. We are religious Sisters. We serve Jesus in the poor. . . . Our life has no other reason or motivation.” Her life and her religious community, the Missionaries of Charity, were dedicated to putting into action the Gospel words of Jesus who points to a child and says, “Whoever receives one child such as this in my name, receives me; and whoever receives me, receives not me but the

One who sent me.” The fruit of holiness is peace, we are told in Sunday’s second reading. Our striving for holiness of life blesses those around us with the good fruits of mercy, gentleness and peace, witnessed in the lives of the saints. By contrast, “where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every foul practice.” As the Gospel of Matthew says: “By their fruits you will know them.” Jesus tells his disciples that he will be handed over and killed but that he will rise again after three days. His words are not easy to understand. But instead of reflecting on the meaning of Jesus’

words, the disciples begin to argue about who is the greatest among them! Ambition, not discipleship, was foremost in their hearts and minds. Jesus turns the disciples’ ambitious yearnings upside down. He tells them that the path to greatness is the way of humility and service when he says, “If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be the last of all and the servant of all.” This Sunday, God’s word invites us to reflect on how we might imitate the humility and sacrificial love of Jesus as we pray with confident faith: “Speak to me, Lord.”

Pope appeals for ‘fraternity and solidarity’ for people in Ethiopia VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Francis prayed for those affected by the conflict in Ethiopia, appealing for “fraternity and solidarity so that the common desire for peace can be heard.” At the end of his general audience talk at the Vatican Sept. 8, the pope marked the upcoming New Year’s Day celebrated in Ethiopia Sept. 11. “I extend to the Ethiopian people my most cordial

and heartfelt greetings, particularly to those who are suffering due to the ongoing conflict and the serious humanitarian situation it has caused. May this be a moment of fraternity and solidarity so that the common desire for peace can be heard,” he said. Violence and the resulting humanitarian crisis continue to grip Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region after Ethiopian Prime

Minister Abiy Ahmed launched an offensive against rebel forces last November. At the time, Ahmed said the fighting would be over in weeks, but the violence has been ongoing, leaving thousands of people dead and 2 million more displaced. It is estimated that some 900,000 people are in famine conditions, and 5 million others are in desperate need of humanitarian assistance.

COLUMNISTS

SEPTEMBER 17, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

For a heart like Christ’s, ask first if your actions exhibit his love

o we truly love everyone as Jesus loves them? What about when we park in the handicapped spot at Walmart just to be closer to the door? Or when we use the handicapped stall in the public restroom? When we do these things, what are we really saying? We are telling people with disabilities that “I am better than you” or “Jesus loves me more.” When we glare at someone with special needs at Mass, or don’t have the proper accessibility requirements in our churches, we are

LEARNING TO LOVE LIKE HIM

JOSHUA RUOFF Joshua Ruoff is the lead consultant for the archdiocesan special-needs ministry. He can be reached by email at: jruoff@archkck.org.

sending the message that individuals with disabilities are not welcome.

Jesus desires to be in relationship with all of his children. The Catechism of the Catholic Church tells us to look upon our neighbor (without any exception) as “another self” (1931). Yes, accessibility requirements cost money, but who are

we to put a price on a relationship with Jesus? Jesus tells us in the Gospel of Matthew that whatever we do for our brothers and sisters, we do for him (Chapter 25). In the Gospel for the Twenty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time, we see Jesus healing the deaf man, showing us that God uses individuals with disabilities to show his divine power and providence. So when we mistreat individuals with disabilities, we are essentially telling God, “I don’t believe you can work a miracle through this person” or “I don’t trust your divine power and

providence.” While none of us can truly know how Jesus would respond to us, the Gospel for the Twenty-fourth Sunday of Ordinary Time gives us a good blueprint. Jesus is with his disciples and for the first time explains to them that he must suffer and die in order to save humanity. Peter is furious with Jesus and is unwilling to trust God’s divine plan. Jesus tells him “Get behind me Satan.” WOW! Jesus asks us to trust him completely in all things. When we do this, we are witnesses to others and bring

them closer to Jesus and closer to heaven, fulfilling our mission as baptized and confirmed Catholics. How are we to respond? We must pray for a heart like his. Some practical ways to love like him are to stop and think: Are my words or actions telling others that I love them as Jesus loves them? Are they a true reflection of my trust in and love for God? For opportunities to practice loving others as Jesus does, call (913) 647-3054 or send me an email at: jruoff@ archkck.org. Jesus, help us to love like you. Amen!

It is a bishop’s duty to challenge Catholic politicians who support abortion

rominent politicians lost no time in reacting hyperbolically to the Supreme Court’s decision refusing to enjoin Texas’ new law banning abortions after the detection of a fetal heartbeat. President Biden announced a “whole-of-government effort” to find ways to overcome the Texas measure. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) denounced the Supreme Court’s refusal as a “cowardly, dark-of-night decision to uphold a flagrantly unconstitutional assault on women’s rights and health,” and promised new legal action: “This ban necessitates codifying Roe v. Wade in federal law.” As a faith leader in the Catholic community, I find it especially disturbing that so many of the politicians on the wrong side of the preeminent human rights issue of our time are self-professed Catholics. This is a perennial challenge for bishops in the United States: This summer, we provoked an uproar by discussing whether public officials who support abortion should receive the sacrament of the Eucharist. We were

ARCHBISHOP SALVATORE J. CORDILEONE He is the archbishop of San Francisco.

accused of inappropriately injecting religion into politics, of butting in where we didn’t belong. I see matters differently. When considering what duties Catholic bishops have with respect to prominent laymen in public life who openly oppose church teachings on abortion, I look to this country’s last great human rights movement — still within my living memory — for inspiration on how we should respond. The example of New Orleans Archbishop Joseph Rummel, who courageously confront-

ed the evils of racism, is one that I especially admire. He did not “stay in his lane.” Unlike several other bishops throughout this country’s history, he did not prioritize keeping parishioners and the public happy above advancing racial justice. Instead, he began a long, patient campaign of moral suasion to change the opinions of pro-segregation white Catholics. In 1948, he admitted two Black students to New Orleans’s Notre Dame Seminary. In 1951, he ordered the removal of “white” and “colored” signs from Catholic churches in the archdiocese. In a 1953 pastoral letter, he ordered an end to segregation throughout the Archdiocese of New Orleans, telling white Catholics that, because their “colored Catholic brethren share . . . the same spiritual life and destiny,” there could be “no further discrimination or segregation in the pews, at the Communion rail, at the confessional and in parish meetings.” In 1955, Archbishop Rummel closed a church for refusing to accept a Black priest.

In a 1956 pastoral letter, he declared: “Racial segregation as such is morally wrong and sinful because it is a denial of the unity and solidarity of the human race as conceived by God in the creation of Adam and Eve.” On March 27, 1962, Archbishop Rummel formally announced the end of segregation in the New Orleans Catholic schools. Many white Catholics were furious at this disruption of the long-entrenched segregationist status quo. They staged protests and boycotts. The archbishop patiently sent letters urging a conversion of heart, but he was also willing to threaten opponents of desegregation with excommunication. On April 16, 1962, he followed through, excommunicating a former judge, a wellknown writer and a segregationist community organizer. Two of the three later repented and died Catholics in good standing. Was that wrong? Was that weaponizing the Eucharist? No. Archbishop Rummel recognized that prominent, high-profile

public advocacy for racism was scandalous: It violated core Catholic teachings and basic principles of justice, and also led others to sin. In our own time, what could be a more egregious “denial of the unity and solidarity of the human race” than abortion? Abortion kills a unique, irreplaceable human being growing in his or her mother’s womb. Everyone who advocates for abortion, in public or private life, who funds it or who presents it as a legitimate choice participates in a great moral evil. Since the Roe decision, more than 60 million lives have been lost to abortion. Many millions more have been scarred by this experience, wounded victims whom society ignores. Abortion is therefore the most pressing human rights challenge of our time. Can we pastors speak softly when the blood of 60 million innocent American children cries out for justice? When their mothers are condemned to silence, secretly suffering the injuries of the culture of “choice”?

Yes, we need to speak just as strongly for these mothers, and of our obligations to provide new and generous options for women facing crisis pregnancies. And Texas gets this right: The state is investing $100 million to help mothers by funding pregnancy centers, adoption agencies and maternity homes, and providing free services including counseling, parenting help, diapers, formula and job training to mothers who want to keep their babies. You cannot be a good Catholic and support expanding a government-approved right to kill innocent human beings. The answer to crisis pregnancies is not violence but love, for both mother and child. This is hardly inappropriate for a pastor to say. If anything, Catholic political leaders’ response to the situation in Texas highlights the need for us to say it all the louder. First published in the Washington Post Sept. 6, 2021, edition.

MEDIA

SEPTEMBER 17, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Media literacy helps ‘contain the fire hose’ of media bombardment By Mark Pattison Catholic News Service

ASHINGTON (CNS) — How many hours are you interacting with media each day? It may be more than you think. It’s one thing to surf the internet. It’s another to binge-watch a favorite TV show, or to slap on those noise-canceling headphones and listen to your favorite music while working. Or, maybe you borrowed an armful of books from the library with an aim to stay planted in your chair while getting up only for meals and such. Common Sense Media says the average teenager spends nine hours each day with entertainment media. It’s all part of a “fire hose” of media blasting away at us, said Boston media literacy educator Juma Inniss, who also is an adviser to Media Literacy Now, the leading grassroots organization for media literacy legislation in the United States. Part of learning media literacy, Inniss said during an Aug. 18 online talk he called “Media Literacy 101,” is to “contain the fire hose.” As important as media literacy is for adults, it’s even more consequential for adolescents, which Inniss called “the second most impressionable life stage in human life” apart from age 2. He cited research by the Center for Media and Child Health in Boston, which found that teens who listen to more sexualized lyrics and watch more music videos with sexualized lyrics were more likely to have more sex partners and contract more sexually transmitted infections than those who did not. “Music is actually the only media that influence our emotions in an active or passive manner,” Inniss said. “Listening to pro-social lyrics can increase empathy and pro-social behavior,” adding, “The messages in that song can still influence us without our permission,” even when doing seemingly mundane tasks, like cleaning the house. It’s not just audio, but video, he

SALES Advertising Account Manager Sell ad space for Church bulletins. Salary, expenses, commission PLUS benefits. Reply: Recruiting@jspaluch.com www.jspaluch.com

Common Sense Media says the average teenager spends nine hours each day with entertainment media. Excessive media screen time has been linked to both physical and psycho-emotional consequences among youth, from obesity to suicide. cautioned. “Thirty years of research have concluded that viewing media violence leads to increased aggressive attitudes and behaviors,” Inniss said. He cited such evidence as the number of mass shootings in the United States and the parade of deaths caused by gun violence. “It’s not a coincidence,” he said. “Our culture is changing. Our value systems are changing, and what we’re getting accustomed to is changing.” Inniss also tackled one of the hottest potatoes in the media landscape in recent years: fake news. “One in five adolescents believe the information they find online through Google and Bing is true,” he said, although it was not adolescents who were solely responsible for the 8.7 million shares, reactions and comments for fake news in presidential election stories posted on Facebook in 2016, when Donald Trump won the presidency. “Just 27% of adults reported being

very confident they would detect real news from fake news,” Inniss said. “In the same study, youth reported 44% confidence in being able to detect fake news. . . . It’s reaching out and affecting us all in myriad ways.” Excessive media screen time has been linked to both physical and psycho-emotional consequences among youth, from obesity to suicide, according to Inniss. “Researchers have also found that too much screen time can have a neurological effect on the adolescent brain similar to heroin addiction,” he said, adding that one research project involving brain mapping of a heroin addict and screen-addicted adolescent found that “their brain patterns were similar.” That’s where media literacy comes in, Inniss said. “Media literacy can help you think critically and gain more control over the way media messages influence you,” he said, “not just to take action, but one of the core bene-

Wagner’s Mud-Jacking Co.

NEED HELP SELLING A HOUSE?

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

Please call me. I’m local, I pay cash anytime. Leave items not needed. I’ll even pay your closing cost. MAKE IT EASY.

fits is that we can gain control over the media messages that influence us. . . . Media literacy can help us make better life choices.” For those interested in becoming more media literate, there are “five core questions” anyone can ask themselves, Inniss said. They are: Who created this message? What creative techniques are used to attract my attention? How might different people understand this message differently from me? What lifestyles, values and points of view are represented in, or omitted from, this message? And, why is this message being sent? “A lot of media messages are created for one of two reasons: profit or power,” Innis said. The questions are not meant to be reflective of “a cynical mindset,” he added, but “a critical thinking mindset that doesn’t take life at face value. It requires us to go deeper.”

Mark Edmondson 913-980-4905 www.Mark@BuyKCProperty.com Holy Trinity Parishioner

THE SHEPHERD’S VOICE 8:30 a.m. Sundays on 92.9 FM and KEXS AM 1090 Encore Monday at 11:30 a.m.