09-26-08 Vol. 30 No. 8

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NEWSPAPER OF THE ARCHDIOCESE OF KANSAS CITY IN KANSAS

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VOL. 30, NO. 8 SEPTEMBER 26, 2008

Leaven photo by Elaina Generally

Choir members, from left, Jae Eun Park, Hyun Wook Kang, and Jung Ha Hong lead the Korean Catholic Community in song at the Mass honoring the Korean martyrs on Sept. 21 at Savior Pastoral Center.

Korean Catholics commemorate martyrs

By JOE BOLLIG Leaven staff

T Leaven photo by Elaina Generally

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann accepts a bouquet of flowers from Sung Kook, a member of the St. Andrew Kim Korean Community.

he sacrifices and holy heroism of the Korean martyrs were recalled during a Mass for the St. Andrew Kim Korean Catholic Community on Sept. 21 at Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kan. More than 150 people attended the Mass, a memorial for St. Andrew Kim Taegon, St. Paul Chong Hasang and their companion martyrs.

Archbishop Naumann was the main celebrant and homilist.

Father Noel Shin, associate pastor at Holy Trinity in Lenexa and on loan from the Diocese of Chenongju in South Korea, is chaplain for the Korean Community.

“Having heard about Jesus and Christianity from some of their Chinese neighbors, a Korean delegation was sent to seek out missionaries to bring the Gospel to the Korean people,” said Archbishop Naumann in his homily.

“Yet, in accord with the almost universal experience of the church, there came a time,” the archbishop continued, “or rather times, of persecution of Christianity in Korea, when the

Leaven photo by Elaina Generally

Father Noel Shin, chaplain of the Korean Catholic Community, proclaims the Gospel.

faith of Korean Catholics was severely tested.”

The Korean Catholic Community was organized as an association in 1979. The community’s first Mass was celebrated in 1980, and it began to meet at Holy Cross Parish in Overland Park in 1983. The community moved to Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa in 1997. Currently, it is the only Korean Catholic community in the Greater Kansas City metropolitan area.

For information, call Holy Trinity at (913) 888-2770, or call Father Shin at (913) 5793720.

ARCHBISHOP

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THE LEAVEN • SEPTEMBER 26, 2008

SEPTEMBER 26, 2008

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THE LEAVEN

SECOND FRONT PAGE

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LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS

Human rights aren’t only to be defended when it’s popular

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he process of eroding the old ethic and substituting the new has already begun. It may be seen most clearly in changing attitudes toward human abortion. In defiance of the long held Western ethic of intrinsic and equal value for every human life regardless of its stage, condition, or status, abortion is becoming accepted by society as moral, right, and even necessary. It is worth noting that this shift in public attitude has affected the churches, the laws, and public policy rather than the reverse.

“Since the old ethic has not yet been fully replaced, it has been necessary to separate the idea of abortion from the idea of killing, which continues to be socially abhorrent. The result has been a curious avoidance of the scientific fact, which everyone really knows, that human life begins at conception and is continuous whether intra- or extrauterine until death. The very considerable semantic gymnastics which are required to rationalize abortion as anything but taking a human life would be ludicrous if they were not often put forth under socially impeccable auspices. It is suggested that this schizophrenic sort of subterfuge is necessary because while a new ethic is being accepted the old one has not yet been rejected.”

The above paragraph is from an editorial that appeared originally in California Medicine, the official journal of the California Medical Association in the September 1970 issue, volume 113, no. 3. This editorial was written two and a half years before the U.S. Supreme Court decisions (Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton) that struck down every state law limiting

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abortion and, in effect, made abortion legal through all nine months of pregnancy.

Justice Harry Blackmun in his articulation of the fundamental premise for the majority opinion ARCHBISHOP of the Roe v. Wade JOSEPH F. decision stated: “We NAUMANN need not resolve the difficult question of when life begins when those trained in the respective disciplines of medicine, philosophy and theology are unable to arrive at any consensus.” To borrow a word from California Medicine’s editorial, this gratuitous assertion by Justice Blackmun could be considered “ludicrous” if its consequences had not been so devastating.

Perhaps at an earlier moment in history, when we were less certain about human biology, one could excuse efforts for state-sanctioned abortions to be the result of a lack of information.

All of the scientific efforts to develop chemical contraceptives reveal the scientific awareness of the significance of the moment of conception. In 1978, only five years after Justice Blackmun’s assertion in Roe v. Wade, Louise Brown, the first so-called “test tube baby,” was born. Obviously, scientists clearly understood the only way to make the birth of Louise Brown possible was to simulate conception in the laboratory.

Carl Anderson, the Supreme Knight of the Knights of Columbus, in his recent book, “A Civilization of Love,” points out how the Supreme Court carefully selected the cases chosen for their basis for a review of abortion jurisprudence. At the same moment, while Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton were working their way up through the appellate court system, there was

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another case, Bryn v. New York City Health and Hospital Corporation.

In 1970 abortion had been legalized for the first 24 weeks of pregnancy in the State of New York. Robert Bryn, a Fordham University law professor, was able to gain appointment as a legal guardian for all unborn children under 24 weeks gestation in New York state.

Professor Bryn petitioned the Court that the New York state law be ruled as unconstitutional because it violated the unborn child’s constitutionally protected right to life. Professor Bryn provided the Court with extensive expert testimony on the biological humanity of the unborn child. The majority of the Court admitted it was unable to refute the scientific testimony regarding the beginning of human life, but went on to uphold the New York statute.

The Court concluded whether one was considered a person under the law did not depend on science but was a policy question that could be determined by a legislature or court.

Judge Adrian Burke, who dissented from the majority opinion, was disturbed by the rationale on which the majority premised their decision. He wrote: “This argument was not only made by Nazi lawyers and judges at Nuremberg, but also is advanced today by the Soviets in Eastern Europe. It is and was rejected by most western lawyers and judges because it conflicts with natural justice and is, in essence, irrational.”

During a recent “Meet the Press” interview, Senator Joseph Biden, in response to a question on when human life begins, said that as a Catholic he accepts the church’s teaching that it begins at conception, but as a legislator, he cannot impose his belief on others. Senator Biden, similar to Speaker Nancy Pelosi a few weeks earlier, took it upon himself to interpret Catholic

tradition and teaching. Conveniently, Senator Biden ignored the clear moral teaching of St. Thomas Aquinas that abortion was a grave moral evil at any stage of a pregnancy, but latched onto his theory of ensoulment based on 12th-century biology.

Senator Biden, aware of one of the vulnerabilities of his position, brought up a comparison between opposing abortion and opposing fascism.

Evidently, he was attempting to make the point that even though he opposed fascism in part based on the teachings of his Catholic faith, it was acceptable for him — as a legislator — to work against fascism, because he stated: “No decent religious person thinks fascism is a good idea.” While this is perhaps true today, it was not true in the 1920s and 1930s when Benito Mussolini was elected in Italy and Adolph Hitler was elected in Germany. Similarly, in our own nation until the Civil War, many decent and even religious people defended the institution of slavery. It is easy and unnecessary to oppose fascism or slavery today once it has been discredited by history and is no longer accepted by the vast majority of people.

Senator Biden’s position of being personally opposed to abortion but supportive of state-sanctioned abortion is wrong on numerous counts. It is wrong because the scientific evidence is overwhelming in the determination that human life begins at conception. It is wrong because it is morally incoherent to believe life begins at conception and fail to do everything possible to defend it. It is wrong because fundamental human rights are God-given and cannot be denied by legislative majorities or judicial opinions. It is wrong because it fails to defend human rights when such a defense is unpopular.

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SOMETHING WORTH CELEBRATING St. Joseph Parish in Leavenworth celebrates 150 years of faith ANNIVERSARY ACTIVITIES • Sept. 5, 2007: The 150th jubilee year of St. Joseph Parish began with a reopening of the newly renovated church.

• Sept. 23, 2007: Annual parish bazaar; funds are raised for an outdoor statue of St. Joseph.

• Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22: Carmelite spirituality series, followed by parish socials Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann was the main celebrant and homilist at a Mass on Sept. 5 marking the end of a yearlong celebration of the 150th anniversary of the founding of St. Joseph Parish in Leavenworth. Today, the parish is combined with Immaculate Conception Parish.

Story and photos by JOE BOLLIG EAVENWORTH — St. Joseph Parish here closed its yearlong 150th anniversary activities on Sept. 5 with a Mass that celebrated its pioneer roots, Carmelite ties, and the anniversary of a sacramental milestone.

St. Joseph Church, established on Sept. 5, 1858, was the first parish founded by the Order of Carmelites in the United States.

Reminders of those early ties were on display for all to see in the form of two murals, flanking the sanctuary, that were painted by Bonner Springs artist Ernst Ulmer for the church’s 2007 renovation.

One mural depicts the foundation of the Carmelite Order in the Holy Land, at Mount Carmel, by St. Albert of Jerusalem. The other chronicles the first two Carmelite priests in America — Father Cyril Knoll and Father Xavier Huber — being welcomed to the Kansas Territory by the pioneering Bishop John Baptist Miege, SJ. In remarks at the beginning of the Mass, pastor Father David McEvoy welcomed Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, visiting Carmelites, and others guests. He also recognized parishioners age 90 and older.

Father David then pointed out an antique ledger lying open on a stand next to the baptismal font. It was open to the entry for the first baptism at

L

the parish 150 years ago to the date — Elizabeth Dager, on Sept. 5, 1858.

In his homily, Archbishop Naumann noted that Elizabeth Dager’s new life through baptism coincided with the life of the parish.

“Tonight our hearts should be brimming with gratitude when we think about all the ways in which the Lord has blessed this community of St. Joseph for these 150 years,” he said.

He also praised the relationship between the Carmelites and parishioners of St. Joseph.

“It’s been a good marriage, I think, for most of these 150 years between the Carmelite community and this community of St. Joseph,” said the archbishop. “So, we give thanks to all those Carmelites who served with such distinction and love here, and we think of those who served in difficult times, [such as during] the tornado of 1945.”

A reception was held in the church basement following the Mass.

The Carmelites who concelebrated were Father David Simpson, the Midwest Carmelite provincial; Father Gregory Houck; and Father Jerry Williams.

Archdiocesan priests who concelebrated included: Father George Bertels, Father Ed Hays, Father John Maier, Msgr. Michael Mullen, Father Al Rockers, and Father Phil Winkelbauer. Also assisting were Deacon Tim McEvoy and Msgr. Gary Applegate, acting as master of ceremonies.

• Nov. 16, 2007: Salute to the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth; chili dinner and performance by the SCL Charity Notes • Dec. 9, 2007: Church participates in Leavenworth Candlelight homes tour • Jan. 6, 2008: Epiphany concert by the Kansas City Chorale; 150th jubilee Christmas concert • Feb. 11, 12, 13, 2008: Parish history presentations • March 3, 2008: Journey into Carmel: A panel discussion featuring six Carmelites • March 15, 2008: Solemnity of St. Joseph

Father David McEvoy, O.Carm., pastor of Immaculate Conception-St. Joseph Parish, peruses the 1858 baptismal register.

The founding of St. Joseph Bishop John Baptist Miege, SJ, arrived in Leavenworth on Aug. 15, 1855, following the transfer of the see from St. Marys.

In order to better serve the German immigrants in the rapidly growing frontier town, St. Joseph Church was established on Sept. 5, 1858. Father Casimir Seitz, OSB, the first priest ordained in the Kansas Territory, was named pastor.

The first St. Joseph Church was built of wood in 1859. It remained under diocesan care until the arrival of two German Carmelite priests from Straubing, Bavaria.

Although Father Cyril Knoll and Father Xavier Huber had originally intended to minister in Kentucky, while traveling westward they met Kilian Guenther, a seminarian from Leavenworth, who encouraged them to contact Bishop Miege instead. Bishop Miege, in need of priests for his new diocese, welcomed the two Carmelites and entrusted them with St. Joseph Parish on Oct. 9, 1864.

• April 11, 2008: Salute to the Benedictines; presentation on the first pastor; evening prayer.

• May 1, 2008: May crowning and living rosary • June 28, 2008: German heritage Mass and German fest • July 15, 2008: Welcome home for Carmelites; parish potluck and talent show

LOCAL NEWS

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THE LEAVEN

• SEPTEMBER 26, 2008

Priests’ appreciation reaches across state line

SEPTEMBER 26, 2008

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By KARA HANSEN Leaven staff

LEAWOOD — The good times were rolling and the ballroom at the Leawood South Country Club was chaotic.

Scores of priests, Serrans and volunteers, replete from a day of golf, cardplaying and barbecue, sat shoulder to shoulder, laughing, joking, renewing friendships and making new ones.

At the podium, Kerm Fendler and Shelly Kelly were struggling mightily over the din to give away door prizes, including Jack Henry suits, gift cards, gasoline cards and global positioning systems.

Director of vocations for the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph, Father Stephen Cook said his big prize was the love and appreciation shown for the priesthood.

“This tells me that a lot of people appreciate the good work of priests,” he said.

That is a message he has been selling for years — the life of a priest is a happy life and a good life.

“I’ve always said that all priests are vocation directors, and that the best vocation directors are happy priests,” Father Cook said. “They realize that the priesthood is a good option, and it’s good for all priests to know how much people love them.”

Under the guidance of Serra Club members Bob and Carol Miller, the annual event has exploded into a “can’tmiss” celebration of appreciation.

Just three years ago, about 35 priests attended the daylong event, which, until this year, was held on the Missouri side. Two years ago, 73 priests attended. Last year, 97 priests enjoyed the event.

Open to priests and seminarians from both the Diocese of Kansas CitySt. Joseph and the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, the vast majority seemed to come from the Missouri diocese, and that didn’t sit well with Bob Miller.

So Miller personally visited every region in the archdiocese, spreading the word that the Kansas side priests were not only wanted, but needed to make the celebration complete.

Then Miller moved the party across the state line to the Leawood South Country Club.

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — A recent trip to Rome was much more than a spiritual pilgrimage for a group of archdiocesan Catholics.

It was also a chance to unite with others from around the globe, who had two very important things in common — all were Catholic and all were deaf.

“For the first time in the church’s history Catholic deaf pilgrims gathered in Rome to see and be blessed by our Holy Father,” said Pat Richey, archdiocesan consultant for deaf ministry.

“The memory of it will fill our hearts for our lifetime.”

International Catholic The Foundation (ICF) and the International Catholic Deaf Association (ICDA) organized the deaf pilgrimage to Rome, the highlight of which was an audience with the pope and Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City.

Eight members of the archdiocesan deaf community were among those from around the world who made the pilgrimage to Rome, which took place from June 16-27. Richey was joined by her husband, Mel Richey, and Father Charles Andalikiewicz, from Immaculate Conception Parish in Louisburg; Father Frank Krische and Cathy Mies, from Most Pure Heart of Mary in Topeka; Bobby Bettendorf, of Holy Trinity Parish in Paola; Christine Vitterino, of Queen of the Holy Rosary in Overland Park; and Lori Oborny, of St. Paul in Olathe.

During their 11 days in Italy, the group toured the cities of Padua, Assisi, Florence, Venice, and Pisa, as well as Rome.

“We saw glass blowers in Venice, the rolling hills of Tuscany, and grapevines everywhere,” said Richey.

The group prayed together in a small church in Assisi, frequented by St. Francis. They also celebrated Mass in St. Mark’s Basilica, where it is said the altar is made from a rock Jesus stood on while speaking to his disciples. They also visited many other beautiful chapels and buildings in Italy.

“I had an incredible feeling of gratitude. I felt so appreciative of the artists and people who have kept our faith so alive,” said Mies.

But the highlight of the trip, said Richey, was a papal audience in St.

Leaven photo by Susan McSpadden

This year, 157 priests from both sides of the state line attended.

“Our politicians can’t seem to cross the state line, but the Catholic Church can,” said Fendler, to cheers from the crowd.

Two came from Topeka. Father Bill Bruning, pastor of Mother Teresa of Calcutta Parish, and Father Tim Haberkorn, pastor of Sacred Heart-St. Joseph Parish, said they both relished the chance to have fun with their brother priests.

“It’s just a good time to get together,” Father Bruning said. “We just don’t get enough opportunity to see each other.”

Father Haberkorn said it was also an opportunity to meet priests he has never met — priests from the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph.

“We never get to see them,” he said.

But it was the love and support from the lay Serra Club members from both Kansas and Missouri that impressed the bishops of both dioceses.

“This is the kind of event that makes

sense for both sides of the state line to be involved with,” said Kansas City, Kan., Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann.

“It’s a great boost for our priests’ morale to see so many people involved and how much they appreciate and love what priests do,” the archbishop said.

That morale boost was especially important to priests in the Missouri diocese, where a $10 million settlement was announced in August in lawsuits alleging sexual abuse by priests, said Kansas City-St. Joseph Bishop Robert W. Finn.

“It’s been a difficult month,” Bishop Finn said. “I don’t think any of our priests doubted that people care for them. But this is the chance for the laity to show their appreciation. When priests see that the church, as the Body of Christ, cares for them, then we’re built up by the faith of the church.”

This year’s appreciation day was a record-breaker not only in terms of priestly attendance, said Kelly, a member of St. Elizabeth Parish in Kansas City, Mo.

Kelly, tabbed by Miller to organize the event, said the golf tournament was a sellout. A record 288 golfers paid to play tournament golf with the priests and seminarians.

In addition, during tough economic times, more than 200 corporate and individual sponsors stepped up to underwrite the dinner and prizes — no priest or seminarian walked away emptyhanded — that included 60 clothing packages from Jack Henry and Peter’s Clothiers, 70 retail gift cards, nine $250 gasoline cards, eight vacation resort packages, and three GPS systems.

After all the bills were paid, the event made roughly a $65,000 profit, which will help finance priestly and religious life vocation efforts in both dioceses, Kelly said.

Next year’s event should be bigger and better, she said.

“We want to make this a fun day for priests and seminarians,” Kelly said. “A lot of times, they may forget how much they are loved.”

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Local Catholics join hundreds of deaf pilgrims in Rome

By KEVIN KELLY Catholic Key Associate Editor

Father Keith Lunsford, pastor of Holy Trinity Parish, Paola, and Tibby Fort wait for their teammates to tee off during the priest and seminarian appreciation day at the Leawood South Country Club.

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Eight people represented the archdiocesan deaf community on a pilgrimage to Rome, where they enjoyed an audience with Pope Benedict XVI. They are (above from left): Father Frank Krische, recently retired from Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish in Topeka; Most Pure Heart parishioner Cathy Mies; Pat Richey, consultant for the office of deaf ministry and her husband, Mel Richey, both of Immaculate Conception Parish in Louisburg; Christine Vitterino, of Queen of the Holy Rosary in Overland Park; Lori Oborny of St. Paul Church in Olathe; Bobby Bettendorf, of Holy Trinity in Paola; and Father Charles Andalikiewicz, pastor of Immaculate Conception in Louisburg.

Lori Oborny (left) and Christine Vitterino join thousands of other pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square for the papal audience.

Peter’s Square. After the hour it took to get through security, the group was seated in the front row. More than 1200 deaf people from 30 countries around the world were at the audience.

“Living in a deaf world can sometimes isolate a person,” said Richey, “but joining with 1200 Catholic deaf from around the world for an audience with Pope Benedict XVI helped our archdiocesan deaf realize they are never alone and always a part of God’s family.”

Pope Benedict XVI welcomed the deaf community and addressed all present in several languages, personally greeting Archbishop Patrick Kelly of Liverpool, England, the president of ICF. “Pope Benedict asked that

Archbishop [Kelly] share with the deaf the pope’s love, greeting, and blessing,” said Richey.

The entire deaf community participated in a Mass at the Altar of the Chair in St. Peter’s, which included interpreters from various countries stationed around the altar, interpreting the Mass into the signs of each country.

Each country has its own version of sign language; the United States uses American Sign Language.

After the Mass, the deaf community gathered to share a meal together at the Divino Amore Conference Center, where the difference in sign languages didn’t prevent them from communicating with one another.

“It was absolutely wonderful. I didn’t want to stare but just couldn’t

help it — I was trying to see if I could recognize any of their signing, especially the Chinese,” said Mies.

“Knowing that deaf or hearing we were all of one faith, it didn’t matter how we used our hands to communicate,” she added. “The ecstatic look on people’s faces was communication enough.”

Richey agreed.

“The many different languages didn’t seem to stop the deaf from communicating with each other,” she said.

“They used mime and gestures to learn each other’s signs. They were thrilled to be with deaf from other countries and felt a strong connection with them.”

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THE LEAVEN

• SEPTEMBER 26, 2008

Emporia’s Sacred Heart Parish attracts thousands for annual Mexican Supper EMPORIA — You start with 800 pounds of beef. Add some garlic, minced onion, pepper and hashbrown potatoes. Wrap in a warmed tortilla. Pin with a toothpick. Deep-fry.

Get 250 or so of your friends to help, send the word out to the entire town, and before you know it, you’ve got a Mexican Supper, Sacred Heartstyle.

For the 35th consecutive year, parents, students, teachers and parishioners came together Sept. 19 to benefit the PTO of Sacred Heart School by serving the best tacos in town to thousands of supportive locals.

“I think it went really well,” said parishioner and parent Becky DeJesus, who was in charge of this year’s benefit. “We served over 3,000 meals.”

Students sold advance tickets ($6), and members of the community began lining up before the official 4:30 p.m. start time to purchase more tickets at the door ($7). They were treated to two tacos, rice, chips and cheese, beverages and a wide range of homemade desserts.

“We have some women in the parish who make some amazing pies,” DeJesus said. The enthusiastic crowd seemed to agree.

Proceeds from the annual event, which has become an Emporia tradition, help fund Sacred Heart PTO activities for the entire school year.

DeJesus began planning this year’s event at the beginning of July, working with Melissa Paolo, co-chair; Amy Scheller, head scheduler; Mandy McManaman, ticket sales; and Lorinda Duncan, kitchen chief. For DeJesus, like many of the dedicated volunteers, it was definitely a family affair.

DeJesus’ husband Mark served as head cook, and their son Connor, a

student in Rita Bluma’s 5th- and 6thgrade class, handed out trays to hungry customers on their way to pick up their meals.

“I think Connor had a lot of fun,” DeJesus said. “He stayed to help clean up and everything. He told me he was tired at the end.”

Fun for everyone “When a lot of Emporians think of Sacred Heart, they think of the Mexican Supper,” said pastor Father Darren Henson. “This is a huge community event.”

Indeed, with literally thousands of Emporia citizens lining up for eat-in or take-out dinners, Sacred Heart’s Mexican Supper reaches far beyond the walls of the church and school. But it is within those walls that the event begins.

“Everyone’s involved,” said 1st- and 2nd-grade teacher Kathy Hastings, taking part in her first Mexican Supper. “The kids are pumped, very excited. My class helped put out chairs to help. The older kids take a larger role. It’s fun for everyone.”

DeJesus conceded that the annual event is a huge and sometimes exhausting undertaking, with challenges at every turn.

“One of the toughest things is finding people to work in the afternoon — the early shift,” she said. “Parents are either at work or have other commitments. But it always seems to happen.”

“Honestly,” DeJesus added with a laugh, “even though I’m in charge, I’m not sure how it all gets done. But it does!”

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Errol and Mary (Vlach) Saville, members of St. Matthew Parish, Topeka, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a dinner and reception hosted by their children. The couple was married on Sept. 4, 1958, at St. John Church, Hanover.

Their children and their spouses are: Scott Saville, Jeff Saville, Christa and Richard Ensley, and Shannon and Faron Shults. They also have five grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Rose Marie (Massoth) and Bob Hoag, members of St. Francis Xavier Parish, Burlington, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept.

27 with a family dinner, followed by an open reception and dance at the parish hall. They will have a Mass of thanksgiving on Sept. 28. The couple was married on Sept. 27, 1958, at St. Martin Church, Piqua. Their children and their spouses are: Mary and Tom Renteria, Janet and Ed Reppert, Mike and Kim Hoag, Susan and Shawn Fowler, and Renee and Craig VanNieuwnhuyse. They also have 11 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Roslyn (Leach) and Robert Billquist, members of Church of the Ascension Parish, Overland Park, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept. 27 with renewal of their vows. There will be a family gathering on Sept. 28. The couple was married on Sept. 27, 1958, at Holy Name Church, Topeka. Their four children and their spouses are: Michael and Amy Billquist, Shawnee; Patrick and Regina Billquist, El Dorado Hills, Calif.; Pamela and Mark Robbins, Olathe; and Mark John and Amber Billquist, Tonganoxie. They also have 16 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Leanna (Haverkamp) and Patrick Baker, members of St. Joseph Parish, Topeka, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept. 20 with a Mass at the church, followed by a reception and dance at Sacred Heart Church in Topeka. The couple was married on Sept. 18, 1958, at St. Mary Church in St. Benedict.

Their children and their spouses are: Anna Jaramillo, Topeka; Lori and Bob Zirkle, Meriden; and Patricia and Jim Koch, Seneca. The couple has five granddaughters and one great-granddaughter.

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College of Consultors enlarged

By JOE BOLLIG Leaven staff KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann has brought the archdiocesan College of Consultors up to full strength by appointing six new members.

The College of Consultors is a body that fulfills certain administrative and advisory duties as part of archdiocesan governance. All members must also belong to the archdiocesan Presbyteral Council.

Before the appointments, four of the six priests who remain as consultors were members of the College of Consultors when Archbishop Naumann succeeded Archbishop James P. Keleher on Jan. 15, 2005: Msgr. Gary Applegate, Msgr. Charles McGlinn, Msgr. Thomas Tank and Abbot Barnabas Senecal, OSB. The other two had left the group after their five-year terms expired.

The archbishop not only filled those two positions, but also added four more, bringing the total number of consultors up from six to ten.

“A greater number allows for a greater diversity of representation in the College,” he said.

The members who have been added include: Father Frank Burger, Father Michael Koller,

Msgr. Michael Mullen, Father Gary Pennings, Father Bill Porter, and Father Brian Schieber.

The existence of the College is mandated by canon law, explained Msgr. Applegate. While the Presbyteral Council is pastoral and consultative, the College of Consultors can be more deliberative.

“The bishop is required to consult with the College on certain significant matters — for instance, on the appointment of a chief financial officer for the archdiocese,” said Archbishop Naumann, and “for extraordinary acts of administration.”

The archbishop must also gain the College’s consent before he can make certain financial decisions.

“An example of that, done under Archbishop Keleher, was the decision to go forward with the construction of Santa Marta [retirement community],” he said.

“Because of the size and scope of the project, it was something that the opinion of the College of Consultors was sought.”

Finally, in certain circumstances, the College is responsible for selecting an administrator for the archdiocese if the archbishop is unable to exercise his authority, or has died, and no successor or administrator has been appointed

by Rome.

Sister Mary Alberta Grimm, SCL

The women of Sacred Heart Parish work the assembly line for the taco-craving crowd.

Leaven photo by Bob Hart

•

ANNIVERSARIES

‘QUE DELICIOSO’

By BOB HART Special to The Leaven

SEPTEMBER 26, 2008

Wagner’s Mud-Jacking Co. Specializing in Foundation Repairs Mud-jacking and Waterproofing.

Serving Lawrence, Topeka and surrounding areas.

Topeka (785) 233-3447 Lawrence (785) 749-1696

LEAVENWORTH — Sister Mary Alberta Grimm, 79, a Sister of Charity of Leavenworth, died Sept. 10 motherhouse here.

OBITUARY at the Cecilia Helen and her identical twin, Catherine Rose, were born on Feb. 26, 1929, in Nashua, Mont., the fourth and fifth daughters born to Walter and Helen Wajda Kusyzek. Their mother died in childbirth, and the twins were adopted by Albert and Elizabeth Doran Grimm.

Cecilia Helen grew up on a ranch in northeast Montana and graduated from the one-room Bredette School in rural Montana and then from Sacred Heart Academy, Fargo, N.D. She entered the religious community of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth on Aug. 15, 1947, and, as Sister Mary Albert, made her profession of vows on Aug. 15, 1949. She later took the name Sister Mary Alberta.

After profession, Sister Mary Alberta served as a cook and dietitian at Catholic orphanages and hospitals in the West and Midwest. She received a bachelor’s degree in home economics/nutrition from the University of Saint Mary, Leavenworth.

She is survived by her twin sister, Sister Catherine Rose Grimm, SCL.

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Manju (left), a 21-year-old nursing student and her siblings (below with an unidentified woman and their mother, far right), were saved by Father Gilbert Aranha when Manju was only 11 months old. Manju’s mother, who was recently widowed, had told the priest that she couldn’t care for the children anymore and was going to drown them.

Those words set off a chain reaction that not only lead to Manju and her siblings being saved, but many other Indian children as well.

The children at Prema Nilaya are decked out for school in their uniforms. Thanks to the generosity of many Kansans, these orphans are living a middle-class Indian life, instead of one of poverty or desperation.

All in the family Abandoned children are achieving their dreams, thanks to supporters in Kansas

BY JOYCE A. MITCHELL

EAWOOD — Good fathers try never to forget their children’s birthdays, so it is not surprising that on Aug. 15, Father Gilbert Aranha phoned halfway across the world — from Leawood to Mysore, India — to wish Manju a happy 21st birthday.

Manju entered his life as an 11-monthold in 1988, when her widowed Hindu mother came to the newly ordained priest, accompanied by Manju and three more children, all under the age of 5.

“Help me,” he remembers her pleading.

“If you do not, I must take them to the lake and drown them and myself.”

Father Aranha placed the older two children in private homes for about three years, then found orphanages to care for them. He helped the desperate widow with money to care for her younger children until he could also find places for them.

Thanks to benefactors in Kansas, Manju and her siblings would become the first residents of the James P. Keleher House of Love or Prema Nilaya, which opened in 2003. One year later, Prema Nilaya purchased a house and, in 2007, rented a second house, to care for 23 children who are orphaned or abandoned.

“Most of my friends who help with the House of Love are from here in Kansas,” Father Aranha said.

Manju, now 21, is the eldest in the photographs that Father Aranha displays. She is in her final year of nursing school, he explained, and will soon be on her own.

Without Prema Nilaya, becoming educated would have been only a dream for Manju.

L

“These children who are orphaned and abandoned have lost a lot in their life,” he said. A five-year-old boy is just learning to speak because his single mother locked him up for hours during the day while she went to work.

“A four-year-old girl has heart problems that were beyond her family’s means,” he said.

Despite the tragedy of their personal stories, however, the children do not look at all like poor orphans, said one benefactor.

Father Aranha agreed. Thanks to donors like those at Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood, he said, his orphans are living a middle-class Indian life. They have nutritious meals, computers and Internet access, and they attend private English-language schools.

“Instruction in English opens up the whole

The children at Prema Nilaya work together on a puzzle during a break in the school day. world to them,” said Father Aranha. “Only the middle class and rich people can afford to send their children to English schools.”

Additional instructors teach classical Indian dance and music, Western music and guitar, and art.

“It is expensive to send them to college, to nursing school,” he said. “I wish I could take more children, but I am not able because I have no funds.”

This spring, Prema Nilaya celebrated its fifth anniversary. Father Aranha hesitates to call himself the orphanage’s founder, preferring to refer, instead, to the House of Love as his family. It has certainly become a

family affair: His own brother and sister are among the teachers.

Often the children’s mothers are poor widows who work in the homes of wealthy families and cannot keep the children with them.

Some of the staff at the home are the very women who first brought their children there because they could not care for them.

The home is named for the archbishop emeritus of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, who established an account for Father Aranha’s cause. He originally met the archbishop in Rome while pursuing a doctorate. At the time, Father Aranha had 11 children back in India, scattered between homes, schools and orphanages.

After his doctoral studies in 2002, Father Aranha was sent to the Kansas City archdiocese to help at the tribunal office and to serve as associate pastor at Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe. Archbishop Keleher, now retired, invited him to a celebration and asked Father Aranha to tell the group about his work.

Father Aranha arrived in Leawood on July 5 to preach a weeklong mission at Curé of Ars. He also assisted at Church of the Nativity in Leawood and at the archdiocesan tribunal office until returning to India on Aug. 25, where his parish of 150 families is struggling to complete its halfbuilt church. Construction costs have skyrocketed some 300 percent, causing the parish — comprised primarily of poor families earning a couple of dollars a day — to halt the work.

Donations for the children’s home may be made to the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas (memo: JPK House of Love) and mailed to: Most Rev. James P. Keleher, Archbishop Emeritus, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City KS 66109.

CLASSIFIEDS

12 EMPLOYMENT

SERVICES

Director of volunteer programs - For the Society of the Precious Blood. The Missionaries of the Precious Blood, base in Kansas City, seeks a qualified director of its initial volunteer program, to be sponsored by the province. The Precious Blood is an international community which furthers the work of reconciliation, lay ministry, and the mission of the Precious Blood through parishes, retreats, education/ teaching and emphasis on the Word of God. Our ministry encompasses 20 countries world wide. The director is responsible for the recruitment, training and placement of volunteers, with the assistance from an advisory board. Qualifications include: energy and experience with volunteer programs; being a practicing Catholic in good standing; some flexibility for travel; an interest in social justice; and a willingness to work with young people. Salary and benefits are commensurate with other directors. For information or an application, contact Father Jim Urbanic, CPPS,at (816) 781-4344; send an e-mail to him at: JimUrbanic@aol.com; or write to: P.O. Box 339, Liberty, MO 64069.

Applications must be submitted by Oct. 20.

Computer basics for seniors - Low cost computer training for Mac or PC. Learn computer basics in the comfort of your own home, at your own pace, and on your computer. Call Becky at (913) 492-1544. www.allaccountskc.com.

Bookkeeper - Regents Flooring Co., located near 99th and Lackman in Lenexa, is seeking a full- or part-time bookkeeper with flexible hours. Construction industry and timberline experience would be helpful. E-mail your resume to: brandy@regentsflooring.com, or fax to (913) 469-1372.

Part-time cafeteria workers needed - For Curé of Ars School, Leawood. Two positions are available; 3-1/2 - 4 hrs. per day. For information or to set up an interview, contact Vicki Henning at (913) 648-2620.

Counselor needed - For a parish-based office in Johnson County. Part time, Mon. Thurs., from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Must have clinical licensure from Kansas Behavioral Science Regulatory Board. Will provide counseling to couples, families and individuals. Submit letter of interest and resume, via e-mail, to Mary Vorsten at: mvorsten@ccsks.org, or fax to (913) 262-0818.

Make a difference and work from home! NASDAQ-listed company with money-back guarantee on investment! Call Jennifer at (785) 528-4519.

Preschool teachers - The Goddard School, located in northwest Olathe, is looking for qualified lead, assistant, and substitute teachers. Full- and part-time positions are available. Candidates should be prepared to plan and facilitate lessons and communicate effectively with children, families, co-workers and administrators. Lead teachers must have an early childhood education degree, a CDA, or a degree in a related field with an emphasis in early childhood education. Prior experience in a child-care setting is preferred. Send resume via e-mail to: goddardolathe2@ everestkc.net, or fax to (913) 768-4414.

Owners are members of Ascension Parish.

Work at home - No selling, no inventory, no risk!!! For details, visit the Web site at: www.AtHomeFullTime.com.

Financial representative - Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding a financial representative in the Kansas City Metro and Topeka areas. This position is ideal for a determined, high-energy, high-expectation, professional, self-disciplined, independent individual desiring to serve others, yet earn a betterthan-average income. We provide top-rated financial products to our members and their families and will provide excellent benefits and training. For more information or an interview, contact John A. Mahon, 307 Dakota, Holton, KS 66436; or call (785) 364-5450.

Carpet cleaning technician - Full time, starting at $10/hr.; possible $40K per year.

Retirement and health insurance plan. No experience required. Johnson county area. For details or to apply, call (913) 438-7767.

Preserve your memories by telling your life story! I can type your memoirs from handwritten or recorded notes. Also provide secretarial services. Call All About Words at (913) 438-5922.

HK Photography - Quality photography, reasonable prices. Fall is a great time to take a family picture for holiday cards. Visit the Web site at: www.hkphotographykc.com.

Bankruptcy - When debt becomes overwhelming, seek professional help.

Experienced, compassionate Catholic attorney Teresa Kidd. For a confidential, no obligation consultation, call (913) 422-0610; or send an e-mail to: tkidd@kc.rr.com.

Granite, Cambria and Silestone countertops - See our new showroom at 5820 Barton, in the heart of beautiful downtown Shawnee. Call The Top Shop, Inc., at (816) 898-8685 or (913) 962-5058.

Mountain Movers Inc. - Big or small, we move it all. Insured movers specializing in antiques. Call Dennis Higgins, owner, at (913) 285-3399.

Piano tuning - Touch-up and full chromatic piano tuning for residential and business clients in the KC metro area. Call Bob at (816) 510-3125.

Do you intend to leave a Catholic charity in your will? What are you waiting for? The Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas helps people with charitable intent to put their instructions into place. We help gifts stretch farther and last longer for the people they love and the causes they care about. For a free, confidential estate-planning consultation, call (913) 647-0365, or visit the Web site at: www.cfnek.org.

Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation to the elderly and disabled in home, assisted living and nursing facilities.

We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 3412500 and speak with Andrea, Sara or Gary.

Need help caring for Mom or Dad? We provide in-home support with a variety of personal care and household functions to keep seniors safe and active at home. For as little as $50 per week, we can provide extra support for your loved ones, or help you get a “night off” from your daily caregiving responsibilities. Call Benefits of Home - Senior Care at (913) 422-1591.

HOME IMPROVEMENT Professional sprinkler systems New systems, repairs, mods, winterize. Most new systems under $2500. Family-owned; 30 yrs exp.; free estimates. Call Mike at (913) 269-1394. Member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish.

Lawn and landscape work - College student looking for landscaping and mowing work. Four years’ experience. Will do trees, mulching, deck refurbishment and landscape design and install. Johnson County. Call Josh at (913) 709-7230.

Bulk mulch for sale - $40 /cubic yd. delivered; $65/cubic yd. delivered and spread; three yard minimum. Will deliver within 20 miles of our address. Call Joe Keehn at (913) 631-7217.

Adept Home Improvements Where quality still counts!

Basement Finishing Kitchens and baths Electrical and Plumbing Licensed and insured (913) 599-7998

FOLEY’S LAWN CARE * Mowing * Leaf Cleanups * * Bed Mulching * * Landscape Maintenance * www.foleyslawncare.com Serving Johnson County, Kansas (913) 825-4353 Custom-kitchen countertops Laminate tops manufactured and installed within 5 days. Competitive prices, dependable work. St. Joseph Parish member. Call The Top Shop, Inc., at (816) 898-8685 or (913) 962-5058.

Tim the Handyman - Insured; free estimates. Carpentry: new and repair deck, doors, windows, siding, screens. Plumbing: faucet, garbage disposals, toilets. Electrical: switches, outlets, ceiling fans, light fixtures.

Light landscape: fill dirt, trimming, planting, garden tilling and mulching. Serving Johnson County. Call Tim at (913) 859-0471.

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

Masonry work - Quality, new or repair work. Brick, block, and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; second generation bricklayer.

Call (913) 829-4336.

EL SOL Y LA TIERRA * COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL * LAWN RENOVATION * MOWING * CLEAN-UP AND HAULING * DIRT GRADING/INSTALLATION * LANDSCAPE DESIGN * FREE ESTIMATES HABLAMOS Y ESCRIBIMOS INGLES!!

Call Lupe at (816) 252-3376.

STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Call for free estimates. Cell: (913) 579-1835; phone: (913) 491-5837; email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity Church, Lenexa.

Organizing & handyman services Basements, garages, attics and shop spaces organized! Your items sorted, boxed & labeled; areas cleaned when finished! Wall repair, interior painting, tile work, handicap bars and ramps. Great references and insured. For pictures of current projects, view my Web site at: www.swalms.com. Call Tillar Swalm at (913) 375-9115.

VACATION On the beach - St. Petersburg, Fla. 4-star condo/hotel. May be rented as a 1 BR for $99/night or a 2 BR with kitchen for $225/night. Sleeps 4 - 8. Call Chuck at (913) 710-2597. For details, visit: www.just letgo.com.

Bahamas beachfront condo - Enjoy the crystal clear waters, beachfront pool or the beautiful sunrises from our newly remodeled condo that sleeps four. $125/night; $750/week. Local owner will rent to mature adults and families. Visit the Web site at: www.coralbeach1602.com, or send an email to: coralbeach1602@gmail.com.

Ski cabin in Winter Park, Colo. – 2 BR, 1 BA, on free ski shuttle route. $110/night. Call (785) 832-1518. For pictures, visit the Web site at: cabin.forcade associates.com.

Ski vacation - Winter Park, Colo. 2 BR, 1BA, sleeps 6. Fully furnished, fireplace, rec. center with pool & hot tub. $125/night; $750/week. Call Joe Frederick at (913) 3855589.

REAL ESTATE Lake house for sale - Beautiful and private Lake Kahola, less than 2 hours from the KC area. Only 10 miles off I-35 at the Emporia exit. This home sleeps 10+ with a 2car garage, plus a private boat ramp and dock. Located at the water’s edge on a quiet cove with great neighbors. Call Cy at (316) 262-0888.

THE LEAVEN • SEPTEMBER 26, 2008 Lenexa - 1-1/2-story home on a corner lot; 10237 Hauser. 4 BR, 3 BA, three-car garage, finished bsmt., walk-in attic, sprinkler sysstem, fenced yard, deck and more. So much home for the money! $214,500. Call (913) 599-1327.

Lake home - Beautiful 3 BR, 2 BA, limestone and cedar lakefront home with dock and boat slip at Lake Wabaunsee.

Completely remodeled with new addition. $319,000. For information, call (785) 4492702!

Colo. ski condo for sale - 2 BR, 2 BA; located in Winter Park. Fully furnished; full kitchen; gas fireplace. On first floor; close to clubhouse amenities; and on the free, public bus route to ski resort. Call 1 (800) 8248438, or send an e-mail to: kmeyer@meyer mountainrealty.com.

Get away and relax! Holy Trinity family is looking for three other families to share their 60-acre nature retreat with. Enjoy hunting, fishing, hiking or just relaxing on the huge covered porch overlooking the lake. The home is six years old, has 2 bedrooms plus all necessary amenities. The property is located south of Ottawa, and is less than an hour drive from Lenexa. For details, call Susan at (913) 345-2577.

FOR SALE For sale - Two burial spaces at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, KCK. Spaces are in a monument section, lot 151. Owner has relocated out of state. $2800 for both. Call Joe Casey at (330) 225-0932, or send an e-mail to: qualityjoecasey@yahoo.com.

For sale - Four cemetery plots at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, KCK. Lot 74; section 4; graves 3, 4, 6, and 7. May purchase individually or as a group. Offered at considerably lower than current value. Call Pat at (913) 592-4264.

FOR RENT Room for rent - Private room and bath in beautiful Overland Park condo. Kitchen privileges; community pool; utilities paid.

Near 75th and Nall. Call (913) 362-7159.

CHILDCARE Home child care - Over 16 yrs. experience. Near 151 St. and Nall/Mission Rd. in Johnson county. Call (913) 636-2782.

ROOMMATE Roommate wanted - 100% non-smoker to share quiet, spacious home near I-29 and 64th St. in the Northland. Washer, dryer, DSL, satellite TV. $400; utilities paid. Call (816) 741-0999.

WANTED TO BUY ***ANTIQUES WANTED*** Postcards, old photos, military items, trains, coins, watches jewelry, political buttons, signs, old toys and banks, Red Wing crocks, Indian rugs, sterling silverware.

Call Chris (913) 642-8269.

ENTERTAINMENT Disc jockey - For your wedding, kolos, nightclubs, corporate parties, teenage celebrations, holiday parties, sock-hops, ethnic, birthdays, holiday parties, hip-hop/rap, golden oldies. Member of St. Therese Parish, KCMO. Call Zepster’s A to Z Party DJ’s at (816) 741-4777.

To purchase a Leaven classified ad, send an e-mail to: jennifer@theleaven. com, or call (913) 647-0327. The cost is $14 per column inch, five lines or less. Each additional line is $1.50.

Classified ads can be posted online at The Leaven’s Web site for an additional $5 per week.

SEPTEMBER 26, 2008

•

CALENDAR

THE LEAVEN

Education The Keeler Women’s Center, a ministry of the Benedictine Sisters located at 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan., will offer the following classes: • “Positive Discipline” a three-part series, will be offered from 1 - 2:30 p.m.

Tuesdays, beginning Sept. 30.

• “Perinatal Mood Disorders and Poverty: Assessment and Resources for Treatment” will be presented from 1 - 4 p.m. on Oct. 1. All professionals who serve women suffering from postpartum depression are welcome to attend.

Classes are offered free of charge; however, space is limited and advance registration is required. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990, or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org.

Meetings The Johnson County Unos will hold their monthly meeting and potluck dinner at 6 p.m. on Oct. 3 at St. Pius X Church, 5601 Woodson, Mission. Bring meat casseroles, salads, vegetables or desserts — enough to feed 8 — or $5 to pay for your meal.

Miscellaneous Would you be interested in volunteering to read to a blind person or assisting students in a small, Catholic, educational program? S a n c t a M a r i a S c h o o l , Eudora, is seeking adult volunteers.

Teaching experience in English and composition would be helpful, but readers for other subject areas, such as science, math, and history, are needed as well.

Volunteers are needed for 2 - 4 hours in the evening or on weekends. If your talents are in areas like cooking, sewing, art, drama, or music, we’d love to have you volunteer, too. For information, contact Tina Jinkens at (941) 916-0990 or send an email to her at: tmjinkens@gmail.com.

St. Joseph Medical Center, I-435 and State Line Rd., Kansas City, Mo., will host a fall bazaar and bake sale from 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Oct. 3 in the medical mall.

Save the date for the third annual Hope Benefit, a fundraiser for the Sanctuary of Hope Prayer and Retreat Center, 2601 Ridge Ave., Kansas City, Kan. It will be held on Nov. 8. For information, visit the Web site at: www.hopebenefit. org.

The Singles of Nativity will gather for round-robin-style tennis at 3:30 p.m. on Sundays throughout the fall at the Indian Creek Recreational Center, 103rd St. and Marty, Overland Park.

Everyone is invited, even if you do not play tennis. For information, send an e-mail to Jane Zaccardi at: service@son-ministry.org.

Religious events World Mission Day for Children will be celebrated on Oct. 1 with a Mass at 11 a.m. celebrated by Archbishop J o s e p h F . N a u m a n n at S a v i o r Pastoral Center, 12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kan. Lunch will follow at noon. For information, contact Father Norbert Lickteig at (785) 220-2443.

The Singles of Nativity, for all singles 35 and better, welcome newcomers to their weekly Bible study on Sundays at 9 a.m. in the Nativity conference room, 119th & Mission Rd., Leawood, followed by 10:30 a.m. Mass. For more information or questions, send an e-mail to Tom or Mike at: Spiritual@son-ministry.org.

Retreats S o p h i a C e n t e r , 751 S. 8th St., Atchison, will host “Mother Teresa of

Calcutta: Modern Mystic,” presented by Sheila Carroll, OSF, from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. on Oct. 4. The cost is $50, with an advance deposit of $10. For information or to register, call (913) 360-6151.

A Cursillo weekend is a personal encounter with Christ that helps you experience your Catholic faith in a whole new way. The men’s fall weekend will be held from Oct. 4 - 7; the women’s fall weekend will be held from Oct. 25 - 28. Both weekends will take place at Savior Pastoral Center, 12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kan. For information, call David Wooldridge at (913) 526-9570, or visit the Web site at: www.kccursillo.org.

S o p h i a C e n t e r , 751 S. 8th St., A t c h i s o n , will host “Inner Healing: Freedom Through Reconciliation,” presented by Sister Constance Krstolic, OSB, from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Oct. 11. The cost is $50; advance deposit of $10. For information or to register, call (913) 360-6151.

Social St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center at KU will host its annual Divine W i n e F e s t , this year honoring Archbishop Emeritus James Patrick Keleher, from 6:30 - 10 p.m. on Sept. 27 at the O v e r l a n d P a r k M a r r i o t t , 10800 Metcalf Ave. For information or to register, visit the Web site at: www.st-lawrence.org.

Good Shepherd Parish, 12800 W. 75th St., Shawnee, will host its annual fall festival on Sept. 27. The 5K fun run/ walk begins at 8 a.m., followed by breakfast from 8:30 - 10 a.m. The carnival begins at 10 a.m. and lunch will be served from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. For a complete list of events, visit the Web site at: www.good shepherdshawnee.org.

Good Shepherd Parish, 12800 W. 75th St., Shawnee, will host its fall festival on Sept. 27. There will be a 5K run at 7 a.m., followed by the carnival from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Admission is free; some events will cost to play. For information, contact Susan Hotzel at (913) 268-0771.

Nativity Parish, 3800 W. 119th St., Leawood, will host its annual Spirit of Nativity fall festival and youthfest on Sept. 27 and 28. The fall festival will begin at 4 p.m. Mass on Saturday, followed by a German dinner and folk music, provided by Festhaus Musikanten, from 6 10 p.m. There will be bingo, inflatables, a dunk tank and other family activities. The cost is $8 for adults; $4 for children ages 4 - 12; or $30 per family. Wristbands may be purchased at the parish or at the event.

Youthfest will begin with a praise and worship Mass at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner and Irish music, provided by The Elders, from 7 - 9 p.m. Tickets cost $5 per person or $30 per family, in advance; or $7 per person or $40 per family, on the day of the event. For information or to purchase tickets, call the Nativity office at (913) 338-4367. These are two separate events; a ticket must be purchased for each event.

The K n i g h t s o f C o l u m b u s , Assembly No. 280, from Christ the King Parish, 53rd and Leavenworth Rd., K a n s a s C i t y , K a n . , will host a Salisbury steak dinner from 10 a.m. 2 p.m. on Sept. 28 in Father Davern Hall.

The cost is $6 for adults; children are free.

St. John the Baptist Parish, Greeley, will host its fall bazaar on Sept. 28. A turkey dinner with all the trimmings will be served from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. The cost is $8 for adults; $4.50 for children. There will be bingo, a raffle, and a country store.

Holy Family Church, Summerfield, will host a fall bazaar from 4:30 8 p.m. on Sept. 28. There will be a country store, a chance book drawing, and games for all. The cost is $8 for adults: $4 for children under 12.

The A l t a r S o c i e t y of B l e s s e d S a c r a m e n t P a r i s h , 2215 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kan., will host a card party and luncheon from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Oct. 2 in the family center cafeteria. The cost is $5 per person.

The inaugural all-classes alumni mixer for graduates of St. Joseph, Aquinas and St. Thomas Aquinas high schools will be held from 8 - 11 p.m. on Oct. 3 in the Commons at St. Thomas Aquinas High, 11411 Pflumm Road, Overland Park, following the homecoming football game. Beverages and snacks will be provided. Guests must be 21 years or older. Donations of children’s pj’s, socks, and underwear (infant to age 12) will be collected for Catholic Charities. For information or to register, contact Michon Quick at (913) 319-2437; send an e-mail to him at: mquick@sta saints.net; or visit the Web site at: www. aquinascommunity.com.

Curé of Ars Parish, 9300 Mission Rd., Leawood, will host a “Saturday Night Fever” singles dance, featuring Carl the DJ, from 8 p.m. - midnight on Oct. 4 in the school cafeteria. The cost is $18 at the door; $15 if prepaid. Mail check to: P.O. Box 116, Shawnee Mission, KS 66201.

The O u r L a d y o f G u a d a l u p e Society of Queen of the Holy Rosary Church, 7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park, will host a taco dinner from 1 - 6 p.m. on Oct. 4 in the Carl Zawacki Hall.

The cost is $7 for adults; $3 for children.

Notre Dame de Sion School, 3823 Locust St., Kansas City, Mo., will host its annual fall carnival on Oct. 4. There will be a superslide, moonwalk, climbing wall, bungie jump and more. The cost is $25 for a book of 50 tickets, payable at the gate.

For information, call Nancy at (816) 7533810, ext. 3110.

St. Boniface Church, Scipio, will host its annual fall bazaar from 11 a.m.

- 2 p.m on Oct. 5 in the parish hall. The cost is $8 for adults; $4 for children. A roast beef and chicken-and-noodle dinner with all the trimmings will be served.

Carryouts will be available.

St. Theresa Church, Perry, will host its annual f a l l b a z a a r on Oct. 5. A turkey and ham dinner will be served from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. The cost is $7 for adults; $3 for children. Carryouts will be available. There will be children’s games, a silent auction, bingo, a raffle, baked goods, and crafts.

St. Francis Xavier Parish, Mayetta, will host its annual bazaar on Oct. 5. A roast pork and turkey dinner will be served from 3 - 6 p.m. The cost is $7 for adults; $3 for children 10 and under. There will be a silent auction, a quilt raffle, games, bingo, and a cakewalk.

Sacred Heart Parish, 1405 2nd Ave., Leavenworth, will host a fall festival on Oct. 5. A traditional turkey and ham dinner will be served from noon - 3:30 p.m. There will be a country store, a cakewalk, an auction, games and more.

S a c r e d H e a r t P a r i s h , 555 W. Warren St., G a r d n e r , will host Oktoberfest from 3 - 9 p.m. on Oct. 4 and from 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. on Oct. 5. A 5 p.m. Mass will be celebrated on Oct. 4.

There will be live music, a tae kwon do exhibition, a beer garden, concession stands, and a children’s play area. The cost is $5 per person. The children’s play area and food and drink cost extra. A Sunday dinner featuring American and German foods will be served from 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the parish center, located at 122 W. Warren St., followed by a silent auction, craft show, a cakewalk, raffles, bingo and more. The cost for dinner is $7 for adults; $4 for children ages 4 - 12; free for children 4 and under. For information, call (913) 856-7781.

13 The K a n s a s C i t y L i t h u a n i a n Community will host a fall picnic from noon - 4 p.m. on Oct. 5 at the Wyandotte County Park, Shelter J, 126th and State Ave., Bonner Springs.

A meat dish, soft drinks, and Lithuanian beer will be provided. Please bring a side dish to share. There will be activities and games for children and adults. All are welcome. For information, contact Sally Zemaitis Dannov at (913) 384-0580; send an e-mail to her at: sallyzd@aol.com; or visit the Web site at: www.kclith.org.

St. Joseph Parish, 307 Iowa St., Olpe, will host its fall festival on Oct. 5.

A roast beef and ham dinner with all the trimmings will be served from 3 - 6:30 p.m., followed by bingo in the Knights of Columbus Hall. The cost of dinner is $8 for adults; $3 for children ages 6 - 10; and $1 for children under 6. Carryouts will be available.

Support Groups Do you or your loved one need support to break free from pornography, infidelity, or lust? The My House Men’s Group provides prayer and accountability for sexual integrity. Sam Meier, MA, LPC, is available for men’s groups and counseling. Call him at (913) 647-0378, or send an e-mail to him at: smeier@archkck.org. The My House Women’s Group provides hope and healing for women who are dealing with their loved one’s struggles. Contact Beth Meier at (913) 647-0379, or send an e-mail to her at: bmeier@archkck.org. Sam and Beth work for the archdiocese and are thankful for the healing they have experienced in their marriage.

Support is confidential and from a Catholic perspective.

Were you injured while on active duty in the military? Do you have combat related nightmares or are you bothered by remembrances of combat? A ‘veterans helping veterans’ support group is forming in this area. If you are in need of help, or are available to help, call John at (913) 909-3368.

Alcoholics Anonymous has a weekly support group for Spanish-speaking women on Monday evenings, 6:30 - 8 p.m., at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 621- 8749.

A loss support group for anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one will meet from 3:30 - 5 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 621-8749, or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org.

Individual and family counseling is available at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. Counseling is offered in partnership with Catholic Charities; the fee is based on a sliding scale and is very affordable. Free child care is provided during some time periods. To schedule an appointment, call (913) 621-8749.

St. Monica home school support meets monthly. For information and locations, call Stephanie Jacobson at (913) 766-0412.

“Kids Voice” is grief support for children ages 5 - 12 who are in families experiencing the pain of separation or divorce. For information, call Jean at (913) 262-9037.

Calendar items must be received nine days (Wednesday) before the publication date. Items will be edited for length. No telephone submissions will be taken. E-mail submissions are preferred; send to: jennifer@the leaven.com; fax to: (913) 7215276; or mail to: 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109.

14

COMMENTARY

There are a lot of good reasons to make Catholic Community Hospice your choice when selecting a hospice.

THE LEAVEN • SEPTEMBER 26, 2008

MARK MY WORDS President MOST REVEREND JOSEPH F. NAUMANN Editor REVEREND MARK GOLDASICH, STL frmark@theleaven.com Associate Editor ANITA McSORLEY anita@theleaven.com Senior Reporter JOE BOLLIG joe@theleaven.com Production Manager TODD HABIGER todd@theleaven.com Advertising Representative JENNIFER SIEBES jennifer@theleaven.com Reporter KARA HANSEN kara@theleaven.com Circulation sub@theleaven.com Intern Seán T.D. Kane Catholic Press Association Award Winner 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 Archbishop Edward O’Meara Award Winner 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2001, 2002, 2003 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) 721-5276; or e-mail at: sub@theleaven.com.

Pope turns out to be a real ‘Cat-holic’ everal months ago some summertime visitors to the parish were chatting with me after Mass. One was describing a book she’d just read that she was certain I’d enjoy.

The details of that conversation faded from my mind until a couple of weeks ago, when the mother-in-law of that visitor handed me a package from Amazon, the online bookseller. It contained a biography of Pope Benedict XVI and, though I’m not a big fan of biographies, I grinned when I saw this one.

The book is entitled, “Joseph and Chico,” by Jeanne Perego (San Francisco: Ignatius Press; 2007; $17.95). Its subtitle shows what makes this volume unique: “The Life of Pope Benedict XVI as Told by a Cat.” Yes, you read that right. It’s a tabby cat, Chico, who tells this story in 37 pages.

While supposedly a children’s book (ages 9-12), I can assure you this “big kid” got a kick out of it. The introduction is written by Father Georg Ganswein, the actual private secretary to the pope, who assures readers that “everything you will find in this book . . . is all true and interesting.”

It will only take adults about a halfhour to read this, and that includes “lingering time” to savor the beautiful illustrations by Donata Dal Molin Casagrande. But what will stick with

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you long afterward is that the pope is a real person.

For example, Chico tells a story of the pope when he was just a small boy and was “a little naughty.” Apparently, little Joseph Ratzinger wanted a teddy bear that he’d seen in a shop window. When it wasn’t there one day, Joseph had an outburst, screaming and kicking his feet against the empty window.

(Parents, take heart!)

FATHER By the way, the bear MARK gone because his GOLDASICH was parents had already bought it for him as a Christmas present.

I laughed out loud when reading that the pope at age three saw a huge black limo pull up to his nursery school. After a cardinal emerged from the car, little Joseph mentioned that he wanted to be one, too, when he grew up. Chico follows this with the comment: “But he soon forgot about this, since for a long while he also thought he wanted to be a house painter.”

Chico notes that the future pope was ordained a priest on June 29, 1951, by Cardinal Faulhaber, the “very person whom Joseph, as a little boy, had so admired in front of his nursery school.”

It’s tidbits like the one above — as well as the fact that the future Pope Benedict XVI was born on Holy Saturday (April 16) in 1927, or that the pope loves to play the piano (especially pieces by Mozart, “who seems to be his favorite composer”) — that keep this story flow-

ing.

But be warned: Chico has an attitude.

In other words, he’s a typical cat. He has an opinion on many things — like Latin, for example. He concedes that while it’s been useful for Joseph, who “even seems to speak Latin fluently,” he doesn’t have much use for it. Chico notes that “mus means mouse, feles means cat, and sinus means cat food bowl. Just between us, these are the most important words in every language, so it’s best to learn them well.”

Chico even riffs on the pope’s personal coat of arms, which features an animal in one of the sections (really). He writes about this animal “that holds a special place in [the pope’s] heart. Did you say ‘a cat’? Nope, I’m sorry to say, even if I agree with you; a big beautiful ginger tabby would have cut quite a figure on that coat of arms.” He goes on to explain why the animal actually featured there is a bear.

A two-page illustration near the end of the book captures the story well. It shows Chico slumbering in the pope’s lap — one of the pope’s hands is on a prayerbook; the other is cradling the cat.

This tender image is one to keep in mind as we anticipate the feast of St. Francis of Assisi on Oct. 4 and the tradition of blessing animals that some parishes offer at that time. Even if you don’t attend a formal ceremony, take a few moments to bless any pets you might have. And remember: Always be kind to them. After all, they might be writing your biography some day!

POSTMASTER : Send address changes to The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. For change of address, provide old and new address and parish. Subscriptions $18/ year.

Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.

THE GOSPEL TRUTH

SCRIPTURE

Jesus uses the Baptist to explain his own mission

READINGS TWENTY-SIXTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Sept. 28 TWENTY-SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Ez 18: 25-28; Ps 125: 4-9; Phl 2: 1-11; Mt 21: 28-32 Sept. 29 MICHAEL, GABRIEL AND RAPHAEL, ARCHANGELS Dn 7: 9-10, 13-14; Ps 138: 1-5; Jn 1: 47-51 Sept. 30 Jerome, priest, doctor of the church Jb 3: 1-3, 11-17, 20-23; Ps 88: 2-8; Lk 9: 51-56 Oct. 1 Thérèse of the Child Jesus, virgin, doctor Jb 9: 1-12, 14-16; Ps 88: 10-15; Lk 9: 57-62 Oct. 2 Guardian Angels Jb 19: 21-27; Ps 27: 7-9c, 13-14; Mt 18: 1-5, 10 Oct. 3 Friday Jb 38: 1, 12-21; 40: 3-5; Ps 139: 1-3, 7-10, 13-14b; Lk 10: 13-16 Oct. 4 Francis of Assisi, religious Jb 42: 1-3, 5-6, 12-17; Ps 119: 66, 71, 75, 91, 125, 130; Lk 10: 17-24

Twenty-sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time Mt 21: 28-32 nce in a while, someone will approach me for advice concerning a problem of one of their friends.

As the person speaks, I begin to suspect that the friend is fictitious — that the person actually is speaking of his or her own problem. The similarities between the person’s own situation and the situation being described are too close.

Perhaps the person has adopted this indirect approach out of embarrassment. To deal with the facts head on is just too difficult.

Something similar may be taking place in Sunday’s Gospel reading, Mt 21: 28-32. Previously, Jesus has been engaged in an argument with the chief priests and elders of the people. They challenged his authority to teach.

Jesus responded with a question about John the Baptist. After they decline to answer his question, Jesus then tells the parable which we hear as Sunday’s Gospel reading. On the surface, the parable appears to address their reaction to John the Baptist: “When John came to you in the way of

O

righteousness, you did not believe him; but tax collectors and prostitutes did.

Yet even when you saw that, you did not later change your minds and believe him.”

Jesus is appearing to attack his opponents for their lack of trust in John the Baptist. At the same FATHER time, they similarly MIKE mistrust Jesus, while STUBBS tax collectors and prostitutes have responded well to him, just as they did toward John the Baptist.

Jesus’ criticism of the chief priests and the elders of the people serves as a defense of his own ministry toward those marginalized from society. In talking about John the Baptist, Jesus has really been talking about himself and his ministry to the tax collectors and the prostitutes.

In that respect, the parable in Sunday’s Gospel reading resembles another more famous parable, found in Lk 15: 11-32. Usually called the parable of the prodigal son, it also contrasts the behavior of two sons — the prodigal son and the elder son who stayed at home. Its audience also includes the opponents of Jesus, in this case identified as the scribes and the Pharisees.

This parable, like the one in Sunday’s

Gospel reading, also speaks to Jesus’ ministry to the marginalized of society and to the authorities’ rejection of Jesus. Of course, it goes a step further in examining the compassion of the father who welcomes back the runaway son.

That is why we usually look upon it as a parable about God’s mercy, rather than a criticism of Jesus’ opponents. But we can also understand it as an indirect attack upon them, going by means of a story rather than open confrontation.

Why does Jesus take the indirect approach toward the chief priests and the elders of the people in Sunday’s Gospel reading, going by way of John the Baptist to defend himself? By drawing a parallel between himself and that popular martyr, does Jesus wish to have some of that popularity rub off on himself? Does Jesus wish to avoid too open a clash with the authorities for reasons of his own safety, to escape the fate dealt to John the Baptist? Is it simply a matter of timing, because the hour has not yet come?

We know that eventually that moment will arrive. It will result in the cross, a bloody struggle between life and death. Till then, Jesus is content to teach. And we are left to absorb his wisdom.

Father Stubbs is the pastor of St. Francis de Sales Parish, Lansing.

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LOCAL NEWS

16

THE LEAVEN • SEPTEMBER 26, 2008

CELEBRATING A CENTURY Holy Family celebrates centennial, remembers longtime pastor Story by SISTER BARBARA MAYER | Photos by DON WOLF

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Don Lipovac plays the accordion at the Holy Family centennial reception at the Jack Reardon Civic Center in Kansas City, Kan.

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — An important part of Holy Family Parish here was absent in the body, but present in the spirit, for its 100th anniversary

Mass on Sept. 7.

Longtime pastor Msgr. Heliodore Mejak had spent months gathering photos, newspaper clippings and other materials for this anniversary, but he died on Dec. 25, 2007.

Parishioners Carol McCarty, Jean Keller and Bernice Anzek picked up where he left off, however, and continued planning for the celebration as well as compiling a centennial history of the parish that is nearing completion.

Many at the Mass shared fond memories of Msgr. Mejak.

“I loved Monsignor Mejak,” said Emma Dragosh, 96, the oldest parishioner. “I frequently baked bread for him and brought him dinners. He loved povitica.”

Although the parish has only about 140 families on its rolls, more than 400 people were present for the anniversary Mass — some from as far away as Florida and Washington state.

“My mother [Mary Gergick] was the organist for many years, and my grandparents may have been the first couple to be married in the church in 1908,” said Don Gergick, from Orlando, Fla. Msgr. Mejak’s priestly service to the Slovenian national parish spanned 63 years — more than half of the parish’s existence. Succeeding the only pastor many parishioners had ever known has been a test to administrator Father Peter Jaramillo, SSA, but one he is passing with flying colors.

“Father Peter is a very caring, spiritual priest, and he has encouraged us to keep our culture and traditions,” said Anzek. “He’s very welcoming and the people have embraced him 100 percent.”

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann (left) celebrates the 100th anniversary Mass of Holy Family Parish in Kansas City, Kan., with native son of the parish, Father Ron Cornish, and administrator Father Peter Jaramillo.

The main celebrant and homilist of the anniversary Mass was Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann. The concelebrants were: Archbishop Emeritus James P. Keleher; Father Jaramillo; native sons of the parish Father Ron Livojevich and Father Ron Cornish; Msgr. Michael Mullen; and Father Gerald Sheeds.

In his homily, the archbishop recalled how a small group of Slovenians asked Bishop Thomas Lillis for their own parish in 1907, but the bishop denied their request due to their limited funds. Undeterred, they raised funds, purchased land, and recruited a priest to serve them.

Under the leadership of Father Joseph Kompare, the Slovenians began building their church, with the bishop’s approval, in 1908. Under Father Kompare’s leadership, the

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parish became affiliated with the Diocese of Leavenworth in 1910.

“God’s grace has been powerfully present during the past 100 years,” said the archbishop. “It is important to preserve the memory of those who have gone before, but the most important part of the history of Holy Family is in the thousands of children who were baptized and received the Eucharist, the hundreds of marriages and the thousands of people who have heard the word of God in this church.”

“The mission today is the same under different circumstances,” the archbishop continued. “We need to pass on the gift of faith to our children and grandchildren. . . . We must recommit ourselves to Jesus Christ, to proclaim the Gospel to the world today.”

Among the guests of honor were: Sister Barbara Markovich, OSF, provincial vicaress, who served as principal of Holy Family School from 1978 to 1984; Sister Jimene Alviani, OSF, who taught from 1986 to 1992; representatives from the Sisters, Servants of Mary; Little Sisters of the Poor; Little Sisters of the Lamb; and the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth.

Recognition was also given to parishioners who pursued religious vocations: Sister Julia Glokoski, SCL, choir director at Holy Family; Sister Daniel Kaizar, a Sister of St. Francis of Christ the King, who taught at Holy Family School; Sister Frances Yarc, OSB; and Sister Ann Zager, OSB. A reception was held, following the Mass, at the Jack Reardon Civic Center in Kansas City, Kan.

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS

BBQ SMOKEOFF What:

Autumn Blaze Days BBQ Smokeoff and Pumpkin Festival Sanction by Kansas City Barbecue Society Where: Garnett (Anderson County Fairgrounds) When: Oct. 17 & 18 Who: Open competition with separate category for Knights of Columbus teams.

More info at www.garnettkofc.com or call Ted Uhler at (785( 448-5357.

For more information on our services, and our unique photo gifts, go to www.centerstagephotos.net Johnson County location (913) 271-0703 lori@centerstagephotos.net