09 29 23 Vol. 45 No. 8

A WELCOME HOME TO MIGRANTS, REFUGEES

In his message for World Day of Migrants and Refugees for 2023, Pope Francis reminds us that people don’t only leave their homeland because they choose to — they often leave because they have to.

As Catholics, we are called to ensure that whatever the reason they fled, there will “always be a community ready to welcome, protect, promote and integrate” them.

At the World Day of Migrants of Refugees Mass at Prince of Peace Church, Olathe, celebrated by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann Sept. 24, there were representatives from Burma, Korea, Kenya, Brazil and more — all at one time migrants or refugees to these shores — joined together in celebration of their heritage and of our Catholic faith.

Photos clockwise from above: n Deacon Bill Scholl, consultant for the office of social justice and deacon at Our Lady & St. Rose Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, blesses the rosaries of Mariana Pacheco as Marilia Matos, to the left, looks on. Both are from Brazil. n Sunyun Choi and Hoseop Cha, members of Lenexa’s Holy Trinity Parish Korean community, bring up the gifts during Mass. They are preceded by their son Asher Cha. n From left, Ebele Amanda Okwuobi from Kenya (green dress), Tina Eze from Nigeria (purple dress), Angel Eze from Kenya (blue dress) and Annah Anari from Kenya (brown dress) participate in the Gospel procession. n From left, Bosco Hri, Van Nung Par and Rosemary Hri, whose country of origin is Burma, pray before Mass. The three are members of St. Patrick Parish’s Burmese community in Kansas City, Kansas.

Photos by Kathryn White

Downpour couldn’t dampen the Lamb community’s celebration

This past Saturday, the Little Sisters and Little Brothers of the Lamb celebrated three significant anniversaries.

Fifteen years ago in May of 2008, the Little Sisters of the Lamb arrived in Kansas City, Kansas, to establish the Community of the Lamb’s first and thus far only foundation in the United States.

On Sept. 14, the Little Sisters observed the 10th anniversary of the dedication of their Lumen Christi Monastery. Later this year, we will observe the fifth anniversary of the dedication of the Little Brothers’ Mary Mother of God Monastery.

The plan for Saturday was to celebrate an 11 a.m. outdoor Mass at the grotto on the campus of the Little Brothers monastery. More than 300 friends of the Community of the Lamb planned to participate in the anniversary Mass and other festivities. Anticipating the possibility of inclement weather, the Sisters and Brothers had checked with All Saints Parish as well as nearby parishes about the possibility of using a large church in case of rain. Unfortunately, all of the parishes had weddings or other liturgical celebrations at that time.

With everything, the Little Sisters and Brothers depend on divine providence.

Plan B was appointing me the chairman of the weather committee.

By 11 a.m. on Saturday in Kansas City, a heavy rain had been

ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN

falling for almost an hour with no end in sight. The chair of the weather committee had failed miserably.

The Little Sisters and Brothers are very creative and are used to adapting their plans to God’s will. With the help of their many dedicated volunteers, they set up enough chairs in the Lumen Christi Chapel, as well as in the social hall underneath the chapel, to accommodate the large crowd that was undeterred by the weather committee’s failure.

Through a good use of modern technology, the Sisters and Brothers were able to livestream the Mass from the chapel to the underground church.

Mass began a few minutes later than planned. The attendees were a little bit wet, but their spirits were not dampened. The Little Sisters and Brothers always celebrate the liturgy with great reverence and beauty. Saturday was no exception.

By the time Mass had concluded, the skies had cleared and the sun was shining.

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS

We had a delicious meal donated by a generous caterer. The social program included beautiful music and singing by the Little Sisters and Brothers. It concluded with an original drama written and performed by the Little Sisters and Brothers, as well as a few of the young adult lay members of the Community of the Lamb. Saturday’s play was a parable, laced with characteristic Lamb humor, and depicted God’s providence in the construction of the twin monasteries. It also visualized the amazing spiritual fruit that has resulted from what I refer to as the Village of the Lamb.

From my first encounter with the Little Sisters many years ago in Rome, I was drawn to their charism of being mendicants (beggars), depending on God’s providence for everything. Whenever I visit the Little Monastery, I always ask the Little Brothers and Sisters about their most recent missions.

For the Community of the Lamb, mission begins with praying for the Lord to lead them where their presence is most needed. Guided not by

GPS, they set off for the neighborhood where the Holy Spirit leads them. They embark on their mission with nothing ostensibly to share with those they will encounter. They do not bring food or money or medicine. Instead, they bring to those who welcome them the opportunity to give them food for physical nourishment. They offer to those whom God inspires them to visit, the dignity and joy of giving.

They thank those who have welcomed them for their kindness and ask their hosts if there is something for which they can pray for them and their family. They actually bring to those they visit the most precious gift of all — Jesus. They allow the Lord to use them to be a sign of his love and presence to those to whom God has led them. During their missions, they encounter many who are looking for a sign that God is with them: a young woman who has been sober for many years but is being tempted to drink again that day; parents who have recently experienced the death of a child; an elderly person who is lonely and feels forgotten. They always invite those who have welcomed them to come, visit and pray at the monasteries. They conclude with singing a blessing for those who have opened their homes and hearts to them.

The Little Sisters and Brothers of the Lamb were founded in France. They have monasteries in Austria, Poland, Italy, Spain, Chile and Argentina. Through the Little Sisters’ monastery in Rome, they met many American seminarians and other young adults studying for a semester in Rome. Father Anthony Ouellette, while studying at the Pontifical North American College, became friends with the Little Sisters. Father Anthony introduced them to me.

When the Little Sisters accepted my invitation to come to the Archdiocese of Kansas City, they shared with their many American friends that they were coming to the United States. When they told

Sept. 30

ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN’S CALENDAR

Institute on Religious Life Mass — Franciscan Prayer Center, Independence, Missouri

EMBRACE the Brew II — Prairiefire Museum, Overland Park

Oct. 1

Respect Life Sunday Mass — St. Joseph, Shawnee

Project Andrew — Sacred Heart, Emporia

Oct. 2

Engaging Catholic college students discussion — chancery

Oct. 3

Maur Hill-Mount Academy Mass — Atchison

Administrative Team meeting — chancery

Burmese Community confirmation — Holy Family Church, Kansas City, Kansas

Oct. 4

Blessing of an ultrasound machine — Insight Women’s Center, Lawrence

Confirmation — Corpus Christi, Lawrence

Oct. 5

Religious Alliance Against Pornography board meeting

Donnelly College’s SHINE — The Abbot, Kansas City, Missouri

Oct. 6

Bishop’s advisory group Eucharistic Revival

Red Mass — St. Thomas More Church, Kansas City, Missouri

Oct. 7

Consecrated Life Day Mass and lunch — Savior Pastoral Center

St. Francis of Assisi 160th anniversary Mass and dinner — Overbrook

Oct. 8

100th anniversary celebration of Assumption Church, Topeka

Topeka Region procession

them their destination, the response of many was: Why Kansas?

The real reason the Community of the Lamb came to Kansas is because they prayed for the Lord to send them where they were most needed. The Holy Spirit did not guide them to Washington, D.C. — our nation’s capital — nor to New York City — our country’s economic center — nor to Los Angeles — a cultural hub — but rather to the heart of our nation. The Holy Spirit led them to a place as humble as Bethlehem and as obscure as Nazareth with the poorest bishop to be a sign in our midst of God’s love, kindness and mercy.

If you have never been to the Little Monasteries, I encourage you to visit. On Monday night, they celebrate Mass with young adults followed by a

meal and a spiritual sharing of how God is working in their lives. On most Saturdays, the Little Brothers host an open table — a lunch — for friends from both the neighborhood and other parts of the archdiocese. Check their website for their Mass times. The liturgy is always celebrated with great beauty, care and devotion.

The Little Monasteries are special oases of grace. The Little Sisters and Brothers are spiritually renewing their neighborhood from the inside out! The monasteries are among some of the great jewels of the archdiocese, places of miracles of God’s mercy. I give thanks that God chose to bring the Community of the Lamb to Kansas, the heart of America. What a blessing and treasure!

BODY OF CHRIST

Eucharistic Revival culminates in three major events in 2024

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Now is the time to make room on your calendar for three big events in May, June and July in 2024, that will be the capstone of the National Eucharistic Revival.

The three “big ones” are: a local eucharistic adoration event May 4; a National Eucharistic Pilgrimage passing through the archdiocese June 25-29; and the National Eucharistic Congress July 17-21 in Indianapolis.

It’s a “eucharistic extravaganza,” said Deacon Dana Nearmyer, archdiocesan director of evangelization and point man for Eucharistic Revival activities in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.

The national revival was divided into three “years,” each beginning on the solemnity of Corpus Christi. The first was in June 2022.

“We had a Diocesan Year of Revival (June 2022 to June 2023) where we were telling people all the things they could do to enhance Eucharistic Revival in the archdiocese,” said Deacon Nearmyer.

“We’re in the middle of the Parish Year (June 2023 to June 2024) where we’re doing parish activities and really focusing on the celebration of the Mass and other ways people can fall in love deeper with the Eucharist. . . . And the following year (June 2024 to June 2025) is the Year of Mission.”

This Parish Year of Eucharistic Revival is important because it is through the parish where most Catholics experience the Eucharist.

“I am delighted by the eucharistic processions that took place in the different regions of the archdiocese,” said Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann.

“The parish is where the ordinary and the extraordinary moments of our Catholic faith life are celebrated and live,” he added. “I am hopeful this Parish Year of Eucharistic Revival will motivate more people to make Sunday the center of their week, and the Eucharist the center of Sunday.”

Activities during these three years offer tremendous opportunities for Catholics.

“All Catholics are invited to reflect on their relationship with Christ in the Eucharist,” said Emily Lopez, archdiocesan lead consultant for adult evangelization.

“We could not walk with Christ during his time on earth, but we are each called into a physical relationship with Christ in the Eucharist,” she continued. “Jesus’ sacrifice becomes the physical fulfillment of living in and through each of us when we believe in the power of his eucharistic grace in our lives.”

Behold KC

The first great local event, “Behold KC,” is tentatively scheduled from 4 to 9:30 p.m. on May 4. It will be held on the lawn in front of the “Great Frieze” at the Liberty Memorial in Kansas City, Missouri.

“‘Behold KC’ will be another opportunity to join with thousands of other Catholics from Kansas and Missouri to worship our eucharistic Lord,” said Archbishop Naumann. “I believe that many will experience the depth of God’s love for them in a deeper, more profound way.”

“Behold KC,” a eucharistic adoration event jointly sponsored by the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph, was inspired by a historic event: the first Eucharistic Congress in the history of the Greater Kansas City area, held at the Liberty Memorial on May 4, 1941.

“Around the beginning of the first year of the National Eucharistic Revival, a photo was discovered in our diocesan archives,” said Bishop James Vann Johnston Jr., head of the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph. “In the photo, hundreds of people are gathered at night on the north lawn of the Liberty Memorial, facing the frieze wall where a large altar and monstrance are lit by large spotlights.”

Inspired by this historic event, Bishop Johnston suggested to Archbishop Naumann that a similar event could be a unifying moment for Catholics in the whole region of their respective dioceses to gather and witness to

their Catholic faith.

The Liberty Memorial has become a signature setting where people from the metropolitan area and beyond gather to celebrate great events.

“Our diocese and the archdiocese are planning to use the same venue to proclaim our love for the eucharistic Lord, Jesus Christ,” said Bishop Johnston. “Attendees can reinforce their faith in Christ’s real presence in the Eucharist leading back to Mass and the celebration of the Eucharist with the assembly of those who are members of Christ’s body in our parishes.”

The event will include a Mass, eucharistic adoration, the sacrament of reconciliation, praise and worship music, and parish choirs.

Details are still being ironed out, so watch for updates in The Leaven and on the event website (see sidebar) for how to RSVP, where to park, what to bring, volunteer sign-up, hotel options and more.

National Eucharistic Pilgrimage

One of the largest eucharistic pilgrimages in history will be heading to the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis — and part of it will pass through the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.

The pilgrimage has four branches starting from four places in the continental United States: the Marian Route starting from the headwaters of the Mississippi River at Lake Itasca,

Where to go for information and registration

The National Eucharistic Revival (national website): www. eucharisticrevival.org

The National Eucharistic Pilgrimage (national website): www. eucharisticpilgrimage.org

National Eucharistic Congress (national website): www. eucharisticcongress.org

Behold KC (local eucharistic adoration event): www.beholdkc.org

Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas Eucharistic Revival (many links to events and resources including the archdiocesan package deal and registration for the National Eucharistic Congress): www.archkck. org/revival.

Minnesota; the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Route starting from New Haven, Connecticut; the St. Juan Diego Route starting from Brownsville, Texas; and the St. Junipero Serra Route starting from San Francisco.

The four branches will cover a route 6,500 miles long and spend 60 days on the road. There will be about 48 “perpetual pilgrims” but possibly tens of thousands who will participate on a limited, local basis.

Parts of the pilgrimage will be undertaken in vans due to weather, safety

>> See “CAN’T” on page 6

Father Greg Hammes, pastor of Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe, leads a eucharistic procession as the parish celebrated the solemnity of Corpus Christi on June 10.

Church of the Ascension in Overland Park attracted approximately 1,300 people. Ascension is one of 11 parishes that have adopted and implemented Communio, a national initiative that trains and equips churches to evangelize through the renewal of healthy relationships, marriages and the family. Communio encourages parishes to offer a steady stream of ministry events and programs throughout the year.

Intentional marriage plus family ministries yield good results

By Therese Horvat Special to The Leaven

To learn more

Parishes interested in Communio can contact:

• Jared Smyth, vice president of church engagement, at (720) 231-4744 or at: jsmyth@ communio.org

• Archdiocesan office of marriage and family life — Brad and Libby Dupont — (913) 6470301, or at: bdupont@ archkck.org or ldupont@ archkck.org

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — In a culture where marriage rates are declining and rates of divorce are increasing, 11 parishes across the archdiocese are striving to reverse these trends by investing in ministries to strengthen marriage and family life. Through a highly focused process, they are hosting enriching and enjoyable events, offering programs to build relationships. Relying on the Holy Spirit, teams of volunteers and staff support ambitious mission plans. Their efforts are producing tangible, positive results. These parishes have sponsored creative opportunities ranging from “Toasting the Saints” to “Adoration Under the Stars,” from date night challenges to a family field night, and from a Valentine’s Day cooking class to a beer tasting get-together. Events have often attracted strong attendance and excellent participation.

Most importantly, as perceived by Marissa Brown, minister for marriage, family and vocations at Church of the Ascension in Overland Park, couples have shared that they are communicating for the first time in several years, they are sleeping together again in the same room and they are having meaningful conversations as they spend intentional time together. Additionally,

Parishes across the archdiocese are striving to reverse the trends of declining marriage rates and increasing divorce rates by investing in ministries to strengthen marriage and family life. These parishes have sponsored creative opportunities ranging from “Toasting the Saints” to “Adoration under the Stars,” from date night challenges to a family field night, and from a Valentine’s Day cooking class to a beer tasting get-together.

previously inactive parishioners are becoming involved.

Since summer 2022, these 11 parishes have adopted and implemented Communio, a national initiative that trains and equips churches to evangelize through the renewal of healthy relationships, marriages and the family. Father Scott Wallisch, pastor of St.

“Communio seeks to strengthen the church and to have a positive impact on society by giving married couples the tools, encouragement and formation to have good, strong and healthy marriages, and thereby to foster healthy

>> See “PARISHES” on page 5

Becoming a Communio parish

• Parish expresses interest to Communio or archdiocese.

• Communio and the archdiocese connect with the pastor and parish leadership to explain the Communio framework and help discern expectations for success.

• Parish participates in Communio data analysis, including a first-party survey and modeled data, to uncover ministry opportunities and challenges.

• Communio provides in-person training for staff and key volunteers to set mission outcomes activities and to create an initial 12-month plan for outreach and engaging key demographics.

• Parish launches plan, tracks results, builds a task force, implements outreach and marketing, begins to help parishioners and individuals in the community integrate more into the parish and relationship health content.

• Each parish has a Communio consultant who walks through the entire process as needed, step by step.

• Parish tracks results to measure effectiveness and adjusts.

Joseph Parish in Shawnee, elaborates.

At its 2022 fall festival,

Relic of St. Jude to be at St. Michael the Archangel on Oct. 2

By Kurt Jensen OSV News

CHICAGO (OSV News) — St. Jude may be best known in the United States for being the patron saint of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, a cancer treatment center founded by Lebanese-American entertainer Danny Thomas.

Thomas credited St. Jude — also well known among Catholics as the patron saint of hopeless causes and desperate situations — with reviving his career during a particularly low moment. He founded the hospital in gratitude.

Now more Catholics are going to learn about this faithful apostle, martyr and saint as his relic — bone fragments from an arm believed to be his — leaves Italy for the first time, sponsored by Treasures of the Church, for a tour that extends into 2024.

The tour began in Chicago Sept. 9 at St. John Cantius Church. There are to be 100 stops in all. The relic will be made available for public veneration beginning at 1 p.m. on Oct. 2 at St. Michael the Archangel Church in Leawood.

As the church-appointed custodian of the relic, Father Carlos Martins, a priest of the Companions of the Cross religious community, is directing the tour.

“The visit provides an opportunity for individuals to experience intimacy with someone who dwells in heaven and beholds God face-to-face. It allows devotees to receive his blessing and entrust him with their petitions,” Father Carlos said, according to a press release.

St. Jude Thaddeus was a first cousin of Jesus Christ — the son of Mary of Clopas (Cleophas), a relation of the

THE DETAILS

What: St. Jude relic on display

When: Oct. 2 at 1 p.m.

Where: St. Michael the Archangel, Leawood

Blessed Virgin Mary. Along with St. Bartholomew, he is one of the patron saints of the Armenian Apostolic Church. The last Jewish bishop of Jerusalem, Judah Kyriakos, was the great-grandson of St. Jude.

Following his martyrdom around the year 65, when St. Jude was killed with an ax, his body was buried in Beirut, where he was slain. According to tradition, the apostle’s remains were transferred to Rome during the reign of the Roman emperor Constantine, and his tomb rests directly below the main altar of the left transept of St. Peter’s Basilica.

The arm was separated from St. Jude’s remains several centuries ago and placed in a wooden reliquary carved in the shape of an upright arm in the gesture of imparting a blessing. It bears the seals of Cardinal Francesco Marchetti Selvaggiani, who was vicar general of Rome from 1931 to 1951.

According to the Treasures of the Church press release, pilgrims will be able to receive an extraordinary plenary indulgence issued by Pope Francis and published by the Vatican’s apostolic penitentiary.

This relic of St. Jude the Apostle will be available for public veneration at 1 p.m. on Oct. 2 at St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood.

Parishes big and small find Communio works for them

>> Continued from page 4

families,” he said. “The stronger their marriages, the more likely couples are to live their faith and to hand it on to their children in ways that are compelling.”

Intentional engagement

The Communio framework encourages parishes to offer a steady stream of ministry events and programs throughout the year. Large scale outreach events target building relationships within the parish and with the broader community.

At its 2022 fall festival, for example, Church of the Ascension attracted approximately 1,300 people, almost 10% of whom were from outside the parish. Sarah Kroger, a Catholic worship leader and songwriter, drew 400 parishioners and other guests to a concert hosted by Sacred Heart, Sabetha; St. Augustine, Fidelity; and St. James, Wetmore.

Other events encourage ongoing engagement. The date night challenges fall into this category. Annie Deters, director of adult faith formation at the three rural parishes in Sabetha, Fidelity and Wetmore, explained that couples register as participants, go on dates and enter their names into a drawing for prizes. Deters provides date suggestions and conversation starters.

At a Valentine’s date dinner at St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee, 25 couples enjoyed a meal, a presentation on a

marriage theme and time for discussion.

Father Wallisch describes the growth journey level of programming as the heart of Communio, as couples invest significant time together to strengthen their marriages. Deters was hopeful that at least six couples would attend a seven-week Saturday morning marriage course in Sabetha. When 27 couples registered, the ministry team reconfigured space to accommodate large group presentations and video sessions for individual couples.

For a similar program, Ascension had 24 couples in-person and another 47 couples participating virtually.

As they enter year two of their threeyear Communio engagement, marriage and family life ministry teams are repeating and tweaking some first-year offerings and tying into existing parish events by adding an evangelization or faith dimension to a social or recreational activity. This can be as simple as distribution of a prayer card. After three years of adopting and adapting the Communio model, the goal is that parishes will continue the marriage and family ministry tailored to the needs of their distinct communities.

Lessons learned

“What’s happening in our culture with marriage and family life is not going to self-correct,” said Tory Baucum, Ph.D., director of the Center for Family Life at Benedictine College

Center for Family Life hosts Nuptial Charity Retreat

Married couples of all ages are invited to attend a Nuptial Charity Retreat on the theme “The Holy Spirit in Conjugal Life” on Saturday, Oct. 14, from 8:30 a.m. through Mass at 4 p.m. at Benedictine College, Atchison. Father José Noriega, DCJM, a theologian and pastor specializing in marriage and family life, will lead the retreat. He and an experienced couple will explore the Holy Spirit’s role in the marriage covenant. Lunch will be provided. The cost is $50 per couple. Find out more and register online at: benedictine.edu/NuptialCharity. For more information, send an email to: pburghart@benedictine.edu.

in Atchison, and Communio liaison with the archbishop and pastors.

“We need to encourage a mindset and a set of catechetical habits to rebuild marriages and families,” he said. “Communio provides a tried and proven approach based on its expertise and experience with churches.”

While initially overwhelmed by the Communio model, Deters realized early on that the rural parishes she serves couldn’t dwell solely on increased attendance at events to measure success. She focuses on the expressed hunger and desire of participants and the fact

that people are having faith conversations and want to be involved in small groups. Others are being inspired to return to church. Increased Mass attendance is a measurable Communio goal.

“More people are investing in making our churches more welcoming,” Deters added. “We would like to create a situation where families and couples are so interconnected that they don’t feel alone when they’re facing crises.”

At Ascension, Brown is passionate about helping bring people to a happy place in their marriages. She appreciates the regular contact and communications with the Communio consultant assigned to her parish.

Father Wallisch encourages patience with numbers in the first year as a Communio parish. He cites many benefits from the initiative.

“People are noticing we’re making a more concerted effort to address community and to strengthen marriages,” he said. “We’re helping new parishioners get to know one another and to know that we care about them and want them to succeed.

“Communio compelled us to invest time, money and resources toward strengthening marriages and families,” he said.

“We need to accept that we are planting a tree that we will not sit in the shade of,” Deters concluded. “We’re investing in the future of marriages and family life and our faith.”

OSV NEWS PHOTO/COURTESY FATHER CARLOS MARTINS

Can’t make the congress? Join the pilgrimage instead

and other practical considerations. Each branch will be led by priests carrying the Blessed Sacrament in a monstrance.

“We’re hosting a section of the St. Junipero Serra route of the national procession from June 25 to June 29,” said Deacon Nearmyer. “This is not our [archdiocesan] event. This is part of a national pilgrimage and the archdiocese has a chance to encourage these pilgrims along the way.”

Preliminary plans call for opportunities for some walking, Mass, eucharistic adoration, catechesis and prayer at certain points along the pilgrimage route, but those details are still being worked out.

Again, Catholics are urged to watch for future stories and visit the pilgrimage or Eucharistic Revival websites (see sidebar on page 3) for opportunities to participate.

The pilgrimage will enter the archdiocese at Atchison on June 25 and go to Benedictine College. Next, it will travel to Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish in Topeka on June 26, then to St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood on June 27. It will continue to the Church of the Nativity in Leawood on June 28, and then to the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kansas, on June 29. Next, the pilgrimage will move on to Kansas City, Missouri.

National Eucharistic Congress

For most Catholics, the opportunity to attend a National Eucharistic Congress is a rare opportunity.

The last one was held at Minneapolis-St. Paul in 1941. The next National Eucharistic Congress, the first in 83 years, will be July 17-21, 2024, at the Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. About 80,000 Catholics are expected to attend.

“The National Eucharistic Revival will be a beautiful opportunity for participants to grow in their love for the Eucharist as well as motivation to lead others to encounter the living Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament,” said Archbishop Naumann.

THE NATIONAL EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL WILL BE A BEAUTIFUL OPPORTUNITY FOR PARTICIPANTS TO GROW IN THEIR LOVE FOR THE EUCHARIST AS WELL AS MOTIVATION TO LEAD OTHERS TO ENCOUNTER THE LIVING JESUS IN THE BLESSED SACRAMENT.

ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN

“To be gathered with tens of thousands of fellow Catholics to praise and worship our eucharistic Lord will be a powerful and grace-filled experience,”

added the archbishop. “I am confident that participants in the congress will return to the archdiocese and their parishes with a deeper zeal to bring the love of Jesus to others and to bring others to experience the amazing presence of the living God in the Blessed Sacrament.”

Participants must purchase event passes to participate in the congress, said Deacon Nearmyer.

Passes may be purchased through the national website or the archdiocese, but it would be better to procure them through the archdiocese, he said, which has 200 tickets, and is offering them as a package deal. The national website offers only event passes and nothing more.

The archdiocesan package deal includes five-day event passes, accommodations for four nights and daily continental breakfasts. It does not include other travel insurance (recommended) meals, beverages or transportation —

however, optional transportation options may be extended later.

For the archdiocesan package (for the first 200 to register), adult pricing is $879 for a triple/quad persons; $1,079 for a double; and $1,579 for a single. Family pricing is $100 off the adult prices for children ages 3 to 18, and free for “lap children” up to 2 years old when rooming with two paying adults in double occupancy.

The archdiocese has a three-step registration process for those who want to attend the congress. For registration information, payment schedule and other information, go to the relevant website (see sidebar).

The National Eucharistic Revival may change your life — and the life of someone else.

“We live in a time when there is incredible power in personal witness,” said Lopez. “Please prayerfully consider how God might be calling you to witness during this revival movement.”

Father Scott Wallisch, pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee, elevates the host and chalice at a recent Mass. The U.S. bishops’ National Eucharistic Revival is intended to help educate Catholics on the importance of the Eucharist and help them better appreciate its centrality to the faith.

Offering options for unplanned pregnancies

By Ben McCarthy Special to The Leaven

OVERLAND PARK — Officials of the Olathe and Wyandotte Pregnancy

Clinics say fundraising efforts from this year’s Life & Hope Banquet have exceeded the organization’s goal.

Clinic director Leah Conner said their largest annual event and fundraiser has brought in over $550,000 through on-site donations at the Aug. 31 event and pledges that followed. Mike and Teresa Murphy of Olathe were recognized at the dinner as Platinum Sponsors for the event, having donated $50,000.

This year’s banquet recognized Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann’s advocacy on behalf of the organization. The Wyandotte Clinic was established in 2007 as part of an initiative by the archbishop, who saw a need for a clinic in Wyandotte County that would provide services to women and families facing unplanned pregnancies. (The Olathe clinic was opened in 2018). Plaques dedicated to him have been installed at both locations, and both ultrasound rooms have been named in his honor.

“When I first came to the archdiocese, I saw a real gap in services,” said Archbishop Naumann. “It’s been a privilege being associated with the Wyandotte and Olathe Pregnancy Clinics, and I’m grateful for all the work that’s happened there.”

The archbishop said it was beautiful to see so many young people finding their way back to their faith despite the pressures of the modern world telling them otherwise.

“We’ve lived through 50 years of legalized abortion and the propaganda by our media and entertainment industry,” Archbishop Naumann said. “A lot of our young people have been misled in terms of the cause for life, but they still find their call to the Gospel.”

The crowd of 800 in attendance also heard from keynote speaker Brian Westbrook, founder and executive director of Coalition Life in the St. Louis area. He and his wife Marisa, now with seven children, were forever changed after nearly losing their firstborn son in 2008.

“There was a voice nagging at me,” Westbrook said. “It would involve leaving my job — not having a paycheck or health insurance.”

Westbrook said that even leaders in faith-based communities thought his idea was “crazy.” Nevertheless, he pushed forward and launched Coalition Life in 2011.

His organization operates with a mission similar to the Wyandotte and Olathe Clinics, and through sidewalk counseling and other pregnancy center services, Coalition Life has contributed to over 3,500 turnarounds at abortion facilities in the Midwest. Despite the growth and success they have found, Westbrook sees many challenges ahead for Missouri.

“A year ago, Planned Parenthood opened a new St. Louis facility across the Missouri state line in Carbondale, Illinois,” Westbrook said.

“Like Kansas City, St. Louis has similar challenges as a border city, and we will see a huge battle forthcoming across state lines as one state has totally unregulated abortion.”

Conner says her clinics are following the wisdom of Archbishop Naumann in focusing on helping the individual, and not worrying about the changing nature of the law. She points to Kansas becoming a growing abortion destination state, with over 12,000 abortions taking place last year (with data suggesting that about 70% of them were performed on women from out-of-state).

Earlier this year, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) released its preliminary report on abortions in Kansas for 2022. For the fourth year in a row, abortions increased in the state after having fallen nearly 50% in the year

prior to the 2019 Kansas Supreme Court’s Hodes & Nauser v. Schmidt ruling. According to KDHE’s report, “Abortions in Kansas, 2022,” last year saw the largest increase on record, with 12,318 total abortions. This represents a 57% increase in abortions from 2021, the largest year-over-year increase since statistics have been recorded.

Conner says the two clinics have seen great response through increased STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection) testing, and believes it will drive more women toward reconsidering before seeking an abortion provider.

“STI testing has helped us to help [women] slow down in the abortion decision-making [process],” Conner said. “A lot of times [pregnant women] come in feeling panicked, but when they are able to wait for the results of their STI test, they are able to take a deep breath and think about [everything].”

Now operating in a post-Roe environment, Conner says the clinic’s mission remains very true to what Archbishop Naumann helped establish in 2007.

“We’re trying to reach women who are afraid and have been told abortion is their only option,” Conner said. “They’re searching [online] and are being told that abortion is a quick and easy solution. Our two clinics operate as a team to offer the support these women need.”

Julianne and Henry Yarnevich, members of Holy Spirit Parish, Overland Park, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary with a cruise along the Croatian coast. The couple was married at St. John the Baptist Church in Kansas City, Kansas, by Msgr. John Horvat on Oct. 6, 1973. Their children are: Amy Marie, Bridget Anne and Katie Elizabeth. They also have six grandchildren.

Darlene (Liebst) and Delmer Rausch, members of Mother Teresa of Calcutta Parish, Topeka, will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary on Oct. 1 with family following the 10:30 a.m. Mass at Mother Teresa. The couple was married on Oct. 1, 1953, at St. Boniface Church, Sharon. Their children are: Doris Bond, Kansas City, Kansas; Dean Rausch, Lyons; Debbie Seematter, Paxico; Dianna Beat, Augusta; Doreen Klausner, Colorado Springs, Colorado; Danny Rausch, Tonganoxie; Darren Rausch, Eugene, Oregon; Darla Hutchison, Topeka; Dennis Rausch, Topeka; Dana Rausch, Shawnee; Derek Rausch, Shawnee; and Donny Rausch, Vancouver, Canada. They also have 36 grandchildren, and 43 great-grandchildren. The children are requesting a card shower for the couple. Cards may be sent to their home at 15309 110th Rd. Hoyt, KS 66440.

Marty (Kuckelman) and Joe Parthemer , members of Annunciation Parish, Frankfort, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept. 22. The couple was married on Sept. 22, 1973, at Annunciation Church, Frankfort. Their children are: Scott, Luke and Garret. They also have 13 grandchildren, three-step-grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

Leah Conner, executive director of the Wyandotte Pregnancy Clinic in Kansas City, Kansas, said the Aug. 31 Life and Hope Banquet, held at the Overland Park Convention Center, brought in over $550,000 through on-site donations and pledges that followed.

IT’S BEEN A PRIVILEGE BEING ASSOCIATED WITH THE WYANDOTTE AND OLATHE PREGNANCY CLINICS, AND I’M GRATEFUL FOR ALL THE WORK THAT’S HAPPENED THERE.

ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN

HEART OF THE MATTER

Xavier Catholic School perpetuates charism in partnership with Sisters of Charity community

By Therese Horvat

Sustaining a relationship across 165 years is a remarkable achievement.

It takes a lot of love, deep commitment and a charism responsive to changing times.

Case in point and cause to celebrate: the ongoing partnership of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth with Xavier School that is marking the 165th anniversary of Catholic education in Leavenworth starting this fall.

Sister Mary Jane Schmitz, the liaison between the SCL motherhouse and Ross Hall and the school, said that in some respects, Xavier seems to be even more Catholic than when the Sisters were the faculty and staff.

“The lay leadership and teachers make such an effort to have a Christcentered focus and observe Catholic traditions,” she explained.

The school’s mission is “to keep Christ as the center of our daily lives and to care for one another in a loving and safe learning environment.” The caring dimension extends to the broader surrounding community and in a special way to the SCLs.

Whereas the Sisters founded the

school and staffed it across many years of service, now the lay faculty, administration and board of trustees are striving to keep the SCL charism alive and to be more of a presence to the Sisters.

Prayer buddies, pen pals

Initiated by the school, the Prayer Buddy program is an outstanding example of this and a popular interaction between students and the SCLs. Each student has a designated SCL prayer buddy drawn from Sisters living at the motherhouse and Ross Hall and those residing in the Lansing-Leavenworth area.

Everyone agrees to pray daily for her/his respective prayer buddy. A pen pal program predated the prayer initiative, and some SCLs and students continue to correspond with greeting cards and notes of encouragement.

Janet Meyer, who has taught fourth grade at Xavier since 1989, said, “The students love hearing from their prayer buddies.”

Sadie Schubert, a Xavier alumna and now social studies and science

teacher at the school, recalled the poignant story of one Sister’s dying wish to let her student prayer buddy know that the SCL would be interceding for the student from the “other side.”

Remembering Mother Xavier, SCL founder

Despite limitations due to the pandemic, Mother Xavier Ross Week has remained a popular observance that keeps alive the memory of the SCL founder and the spirit of the SCLs. During the pandemic, the students marched parade-style around the motherhouse and Ross Hall, carrying signs and banners. Sisters stood at their windows or on outside balconies. Normally, students would have been inside the buildings, singing for the Sisters.

Another regular feature of the week that commemorates the SCL founder has been a presentation by Sister Elizabeth Skalicky dressed as Mother Xavier as she recounts the religious community’s founding in Leavenworth in 1858.

Schubert remembered performing songs and skits in Ross Hall as a young student at Xavier. She believes it’s important that the students have the opportunity to experience the Sisters and learn their stories.

“Children are naturally focused on themselves. In trying to expand their worldview, the Sisters are a great resource,” she said. “The Sisters have a spirit of selflessness; they look at the world beyond themselves. It’s meaningful for our students to understand this.”

During the 2022 Mother Xavier Ross Week, students honored their

prayer buddies through a service project. The school identified needs of charities with which the SCLs are involved. Preschoolers through second graders collected snacks for the Leavenworth Interfaith Community of Hope homeless shelter; third through fifth graders donated toiletry items for patients of Saint Vincent

PHOTO COURTESY OF XAVIER CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Xavier students observe the symbol of the burning bush during a Season of Creation prayer service in the pollinator garden on the motherhouse grounds. Sister Mary Ann Theisen is pictured in the blue blouse.

During COVID isolation, Sisters had a bird’s-eye family T-shirts.

Sisters of Charity Loretta Modrcin (front) and Elizabeth Skalicky (back) greet Xavier Elementary School at Annunciation Chapel on the University of St. Mary/motherhouse campus and are greeted by Thomas Thornton and Liam Murphree.

Clinic; and sixth through eighth graders provided food products for Catholic Charities. Students made all donations in honor of their SCL prayer buddies.

Sister Elizabeth attributed the vitality of the SCL charism at Xavier to the teachers, many of whom have long tenure with the school and some of

Faith and service important at Xavier

Throughout the academic year, Xavier elementary students are organized into “faith families” with representation from each grade. The faith families are named after saints and identified by different colors of T-shirts. Weather permitting, the kindergartners through eighth graders walk in their respective faith families to weekly Mass in Annunciation Chapel on the nearby SCL motherhouse campus.

Faith families also compete in the annual “Souper Bowl” begun by Sister Mary Jane. They collect cans of soup for the local Catholic Charities food pantry. Students meet in their faith families monthly for an activity, such as reading a favorite book, making banners or participating in a field day. Janelle Hartegan, principal, explained that the faith family arrangement allows for building community and cultivating leadership and mentorship.

With Catholic identity a leading strategic imperative of the Xavier board of trustees, chairman Mike Cyr sees this occurring through relationships with the SCLs and their sponsored works. Sisters Nancy Bauman and Elizabeth Youngs serve on the Xavier board. The school is strengthening ties with the University of Saint Mary with college students assisting with programs and projects, and doing their student teaching at the elementary school. Xavier students continue a “Pennies for Peru” competition to raise funds for SCL missions in Peru.

with Xavier for 27 years and serving as a technology specialist and librarian, believes it’s important that the students connect the Sisters with the heritage and tradition of Catholic education in Leavenworth.

Since she began teaching at Xavier, Janet Meyer has identified the SCLs as strong women — praying and mentoring the young faculty members. She wants the students to have the continued experience of encountering these inspiring women of faith.

Students of all ages engaged

At one time, Xavier School occupied four separate sites in Leavenworth. Since 2011, it’s been consolidated to two locations — the elementary school to the west of the motherhouse campus and the preschool located in the former Sacred Heart Parish School building.

Shannon Holcomb, administrator of the preschool and extended care services, said that the younger students participate in different service and spiritual activities at ageappropriate levels.

For these children, there’s a strong emphasis on faith formation with regular Bible study, catechesis, Mass attendance and observance of liturgical seasons.

The generational connections provided by student interactions with the SCLs are also valuable. Holcomb noted that 60% or more of students in the preschool come from military families who live at a distance from their families of origin.

whom taught there when SCLs were among faculty and staff. She gratefully acknowledged Sister Mary Jane’s role in helping keep the Sisters and students connected. Both SCLs have long and strong ties with Xavier. They resumed volunteering at the school once COVID-19 restrictions were relaxed.

Cyr considers Xavier students the school’s best ambassadors and the best evangelists for Catholic education. He gives equal praise to the teachers for instilling strong moral principles and practicing what they teach daily. Many of the teachers and staff have long tenure with Xavier, and several have children and even grandchildren who have attended or are currently in the school.

Traci Baker, administrative assistant for the past 15 years, credits the school for providing students with a strong faith foundation. Cindi Thiele,

“It’s so important that our students know there is someone out there who cares for us and who is praying for us,” she said of the SCLs. “I believe our students have a true understanding of what this means.”

From her experience, Sister Mary Jane concluded, “I’m prejudiced, but I’m impressed with our school, our students and our teachers.”

This article originally appeared in “Voices,” a publication of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth. It is reprinted with permission.

PHOTO COURTESY OF XAVIER CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Sister Mary Jane Schmitz trains students to lector at Mass.

PHOTO COURTESY OF XAVIER CATHOLIC SCHOOL bird’s-eye view from the window as the young students processed by on Mass day, attired in their faith

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER School students as they make their way to Mass on Sept. 19. Every Tuesday, students walk to Mass the Sisters. Students making their way to Mass are, from back, Sophia Sanford, Amelia Larson,

Native son credits his vocation to his home parish in Lawrence

By Father Robert Flannery Special to The Leaven

As Catholics, we often speak of the “universality” of the Catholic Church. One of the many ways this demonstrates itself is through the sharing of priests and religious who have been raised or have lived in one diocese, and then for a variety of reasons end up living and serving elsewhere.

As we all know, mobility is a sign of the times, and oftentimes can even be part of God’s plan.

My name is Father Bob Flannery, and that is precisely what happened to me!

I was raised in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Belleville in southern Illinois 50 years ago this past June.

Archbishop Ignatius J. Strecker was present at my first Mass in Lawrence, and one of my former bishops in Belleville is Archbishop Emeritus Jim Keleher.

I was born in Hastings, Nebraska, and when I was 3 years old, my family moved to Lawrence, where my father became the manager of Weaver’s Department Store.

Both my parents, Larry Sr. and Dorothy Flannery, were products of Catholic education. They met in Omaha, Nebraska, and were married at St. Cecilia Cathedral in 1940 by none other than Msgr. Edward J. Hunkeler.

Shortly after arriving in Lawrence in 1950, my mother went to register at St. John the Evangelist rectory, the only Catholic parish in Lawrence at the time. She asked then-Father George Towle to enroll my older brother Larry Jr. into Catholic school.

Father Towle told my mother, “Mrs. Flannery, unfortunately we do not have a Catholic school in town, but you are most welcome to help start one.”

My mother took him at his word, and six years later, St. John School opened its doors, to a great extent through the efforts and enthusiasm of my mother and father, who were instrumental in the school becoming a reality.

In 2009, as a recognition of this extraordinary endeavor by my mother

(my father had passed away two decades before), a later parish in Lawrence, Corpus Christi, through the initiative of its pastor Father Mick Mulvany, established “The Dorothy Flannery Honor,” calling my mom “the Mother of Catholic Education in Lawrence.”

She was honored due to her dedicated service to St. John, the St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center and Corpus Christi Parish and School.

At first, there were six grades at St. John — first through sixth. My brother Larry was unfortunately too old at that point to attend, but my younger brother Joe started first grade, and I was in fourth.

Four Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth were our teachers. It was the first time I had ever seen a nun.

As I grew older, I was surrounded by religious life. I assisted the Sisters with the Legion of Mary apostolate and played the organ and sang at the daily Requiem Masses along with some of my classmates. I was a regular altar server at Mass from second grade through college, and I was inspired by the newly ordained priest, Father Vince Krische.

While in Lawrence, I was introduced to archdiocesan priests, Jesuits, Benedictines, the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth and eventually the Capuchins.

All these relationships nurtured my priestly vocation.

And so why, you ask, did I end up in

the Diocese of Belleville in southern Illinois?

Having first sensed that God was calling me to be a Benedictine monk while a student at Saint John’s University in Collegeville, Minnesota, I made a retreat during my sophomore year at Conception Abbey and Seminary in Conception, Missouri.

It was there that I became good friends with some seminarians from the Belleville Diocese, and after college, I made the decision to be incardinated there.

The church is truly universal. No matter where we go, live or serve, God continues to build up his church through her ministers and her faithful.

I am so very proud and privileged to have had my faith and priestly vocation nurtured in such a profound way by my home parish and community of St. John the Evangelist in Lawrence.

Praised be God for his many blessings and for the providential plan God has for each of us on our amazing life and vocation journeys!

Father Flannery is pastor of St. Francis Xavier Parish in Carbondale, Illinois, and chaplain at the Newman Catholic Student Center at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale. This summer he received the “Ezekiel: Prophet of Hope Award” from his main alma mater, Saint John’s University’s School of Theology and Seminary in Collegeville, Minnesota, where he continues to serve on the board of regents.

PHOTO COURTESY OF FATHER BOB FLANNERY

Father Bob Flannery is originally from St. John the Evangelist, Lawrence. He is celebrating his 50th jubilee as a priest this year.

On mission to Maui, religious provide comfort to fire victims

By Patrick Downes OSV News

LAHAINA, Hawaii (OSV News)

— A smile. A wave. A hug. A bottle of water. An attentive and compassionate ear. A shoulder to cry on. A prayer. A ministry of presence.

A steady stream of priests and deacons from across the Honolulu Diocese has been making its way to west Maui to provide spiritual support for the victims of the Lahaina wildfires, the worst natural disaster ever to hit the state of Hawaii.

Called the Maui Mercy Mission, it was initiated 10 days after the catastrophe with a letter from Bishop Larry Silva to Hawaii’s deacons and priests.

“Many of those affected by the fire simply need someone to talk to, to pray with them, and to comfort them,” he wrote. There is also a need to bless the bodies of the dead in the temporary morgue if families request it, he said.

“I am asking all the priests and deacons, whether on Maui or on other islands, to consider lending spiritual support by going to Maui for a day or two to be present to those in need and to offer prayer, spiritual counsel, and your presence,” said the bishop, who has since been on one of these mission trips himself.

The bishop also asked the priests and deacons to donate their airfare. Ground transportation and overnight accommodations, if needed, would be arranged.

The bishop asked Father Arnold Ortiz, who retired in June as a parish pastor, to coordinate the mission’s logistics.

About 15 deacons and three wives of deacons were part of the first wave of Maui “missionaries,” said Father Ortiz, not including those from Maui and elsewhere who have come on their own. Priests from Oahu and neighboring islands and a few priests from the mainland have participated in the Maui mission.

“The Maui priests, deacons and Sisters, of course, have been the primary source of help,” led by Msgr. Terrence Watanabe, vicar of Maui, he said.

Maui Deacon Chris Ribucan of Kahului is the primary mission organizer on the island, arranging transportation from and to the airport and getting the clergy to the mission stations, which are open tents where the ministry is offered, advertised by signs that read “Spiritual Assistance: Prayer, Guidance and Sacraments.”

“The primary services are spiritual comfort and prayer, counseling, sacraments, computers and daily supplies,”

Father Ortiz said in an email to the Hawaii Catholic Herald, newspaper of the Diocese of Honolulu.

By Aug. 30, two mission stations were set up, one at Napili Park, “around the corner” from Sacred Hearts Church in Kapalua, and the other at Lahaina Gateway Center. More mission stations were being considered for the hotels where more than 4,000 people have found shelter.

“Most important for the Diocese of Honolulu is to have a strong presence,” Father Ortiz said.

“It’s heart wrenching to see the ruins of the fire, but gratifying to see people coming . . . for help,” he said.

“One of the deacons listened long and patiently to a person tell her story about how she lost everything. We

saw the stress on her face and in her demeanor, but just telling her story to someone who really cared was important for her to begin to find a sense of calm and peace,” Father Ortiz said.

But this is just the beginning, he said. “I believe we recognize now this mission effort will be needed for many years.”

“It’s important we stay organized and encourage volunteers to be flexible,” he said. “Over time, the process for managing the missions will be refined as they will most likely continue to grow in number.”

Deacon Michael Weaver, director of the diocesan Office for Deacons, went on mission Aug. 28. “The day I went over, we were in Napili Park in Kapalua,” he said. “It’s one of the major staging areas for aid.

“As Deacon Chris said to us that morning on the ride from the airport, ‘There’s no to-do list or boxes to check off. Just do what you think is best.’”

“Since our tent was near the parking lot, I spent a great deal of time just saying ‘Hi’ to people as they came in, answering their questions as to where

they needed to go for help,” the deacon said. “Some stopped to talk and asked who we were. Others just walked by.”

He told about one woman who came over and said, “I’m not Catholic, but I really need to talk to someone.” Deacon Ribucan sat her down and got her some water. She told him of how she had gone through multiple evacuations — the most recent one based on a false rumor — from her still undamaged house. “I can’t take this!” she told Deacon Ribucan who let her talk, commenting occasionally, “as she just let her feelings out.”

“Thirty minutes later, she was calmer and laughing,” said Deacon Weaver. “She hugged Chris, who said a prayer with her, shook my hand and Father Arnold’s as well, and walked quietly off. She turned as she got to her car and waved.”

“That’s pretty much how the day went,” said the deacon.

“Indeed, there is a great need for spiritual support,” said Father Victor Lanuevo, a retired Honolulu diocesan priest. He spent all day Aug. 27, a Sunday, on Maui, and invited along Ron

Salvador, a parishioner of St. John Apostle and Evangelist Parish in Mililani and a highly decorated retired Navy hospital corpsman with combat experience.

They were met at the Kahului airport by Hopsing Coon, a member of the Knights of Columbus, a Lahaina resident for 43 years and a parishioner of Lahaina’s Maria Lanakila Parish.

“As Hopsing Coon was driving us to see the devastation and destruction of the fire, we felt the pain and the sufferings of the residents,” Father Lanuevo said. “There were people who lived in those houses that turned into ashes. It was painful to know some residents died. It was hard to see the people lose everything.”

After celebrating Mass Aug. 27 in Sacred Heart Church for local parishioners and volunteers of the Maui Mercy Mission, Father Lanuevo told the Hawaii Catholic Herald that the atmosphere during the liturgy “was very touching.”

It was “as if the people were waiting for an answer to their questions, as if they felt that they would experience the strength to deal with their losses, as if they felt that God had led them to attend the holy Mass,” he said.

“After the Mass some parishioners talked to me about losing their homes, and their hope, their future and their faith,” he said. “And they felt comforted to know that they had a church to go to and a community to belong to. They believe in the kindness of the volunteer workers of Maui Mercy Mission, and they experienced the presence of God among each other.”

Deacon Charles Mapa, from Mountain View on the Big Island of Hawaii, and who serves as a deacon at Sacred Heart Church in Pahoa, gave a brief homily at Sunday Mass at Sacred Hearts Mission Aug. 27.

“There seems to be, in spite of the tremendous hardships placed on you, a huge outpouring of the Holy Spirit here,” he said. “There is vibrant life here, and it is here because you continually say ‘yes’ to God’s promptings. You will endure and I see you as beacons of love and hope for all of Lahaina.”

OSV NEWS PHOTO/STAFF SGT. MATTHEW A. FOSTER, U.S. ARMY NATIONAL GUARD HANDOUT VIA REUTERS Search, rescue and recovery personnel conduct search operations in areas of the fire-ravaged town of Lahaina on the Hawaiian island of Maui Aug. 15.

OSV NEWS PHOTO/COURTESY OF MARIA LANAKILA PARISH

Maria Lanakila Catholic Church in Lahaina on the Hawaiian island of Maui is pictured Aug. 16, untouched by the wildfire that destroyed the entire town of Lahaina Aug. 8-9.

EMPLOYMENT

Part-time accountant - St. Pius X Parish in Mission is looking to hire a part-time accountant. This position usually requires two - five hours per week and requires working from home with a church-provided computer loaded with QuickBooks accounting software. Responsibilities include overall financial management, payroll, accounts payable, posting weekly deposits, preparing monthly financial statements and annual budget, reconciliation of accounts and other financial tasks. The successful candidate will preferably have an accounting degree with five years’ experience along with strong interpersonal and communication skills. If interested, please submit a cover letter and resume to: galba@spxmission.org.

After-school care helper - Holy Cross School in Overland Park is seeking an after-school care helper. The hours are Monday - Friday from 3:30 - 5:30 p.m. If you are interested, please contact the principal, Melissa Wagner, at: mwagner@holycrosscatholic school.com.

Microscope service/repair - Are you looking for something new and exciting to do? A locally owned, family business is currently seeking candidates to provide preventive maintenance and repair service on microscopes. No previous experience necessary, on-the-job training provided by seasoned technicians. Good communication, time management and customer service skills needed. Hours are flexible depending on customer needs. Some travel is required. Please contact us at: techneeded23@gmail.com.

Coaches - Bishop Miege High School is seeking the following coaches for the 2023-24 school year: assistant wrestling - winter, and assistant baseball - spring. Contact Joe Schramp, athletic director at: jschramp@ bishopmiege.com or (913) 222-5802.

Graphic design specialist - The Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph seeks to fill a graphic design specialist position for the communications office. The primary objective is to take concepts and ideas and create visual representations in both print and electronic media to reach a diverse Catholic audience. This position is full time, benefit eligible based upon 40 hours per week, and officed in the chancery building in downtown Kansas City, Missouri. To see full job description and apply, go to: www.kcsjcatholic. org and click on “Employment Opportunities,” then scroll down to “Click here to view and apply for current openings” then scroll down to “Graphic Design Specialist.”

Drivers needed - Drivers needed part time for transport business. We take patients to behavioral health facilities around town. Retirees welcomed. Two employees ride in the company van on every trip. See Geminitransports.com for more information.

Safe environment program coordinator - The Diocese of Kansas City - St. Joseph seeks to fill a safe environment program coordinator position for the office of child/youth protection. This position works directly with parishes and schools to implement diocesan-approved educational programs and to ensure compliance with safe environment requirements for employees and volunteers working with minors. This position is full time and officed in the chancery building in downtown Kansas City, Missouri. To see full job description and apply, go to: www.kcsjcatholic.org and scroll to the bottom of the page and click on “Employment,” then scroll down and click on “Click here to view and apply for current openings” and then scroll down to “Safe Environment Coordinator.”

Scientific equipment technician - Would you like to make a difference in a small growing company?

Seeking individuals looking for flexible part-time work maintaining and repairing small equipment for our family company which has been in the local area for over 40 years. Service is completed at customer’s locations locally and within a four-state area. Dependable transportation is a must. Positive attitude, dependability, time management and self-motivation skills, as well as being quality- and customer-oriented are required. Mostly on-the-job training. Electrical knowledge a plus. Please send resume to: Yourcareerr101@gmail. com.

Youth ministers and confirmation coordinator

- Holy Spirit Parish, Overland Park, is seeking a fulltime youth minister and confirmation coordinator. This individual would be responsible for all aspects of high school and junior high ministries as well as the confirmation and summer programs. Applicants must have a heart for teens, love of the church and its teachings, and should have a bachelor’s degree in the field of theology, ministry or a related field. Previous experience in youth formation preferred. To apply, send a cover letter and resume to the parish manager, Shaw Leach, at: sleach@hscatholic.org.

In-home caregiver - We are looking for an engaging in-home caregiver for our son with special needs in western Shawnee. He loves music, interacting with others, reading books, and is learning new life skills. Help needed weekdays (anytime between 3-10 p.m.) and some shifts on weekends @ $17/hr. Please call (785) 393-1589.

WELLERBEEF.COM - Let us be your local farm source for beef for your dinner table. Local, Catholic, family farm. Humanely raised. No antibiotics/hormones. Grass fed and traditional. Starter pack to a whole cow. Free delivery in Kansas City area. We pay the butcher’s processing fees.

Assistant direct support professional - L’Arche Heartland is seeking an assistant direct support professional. This person would report to the community home supervisor. Key responsibilities include: utilize person-centered support plan to provide guidance, support, growth and development opportunities to each core member through attentiveness and caring; be a strong role model of appropriate behavior; foster positive and supportive relationships among core members as well as families and professionals; follow all policies, procedures and protocols to ensure core member safety; participate and contribute to house team meetings to ensure household is maintained to include regular upkeep, meal planning and preparation as well as event planning and community interaction; monitor and assist core members with the following as needed: personal hygiene, appearance, laundry, meal preparation, cleaning, personal finances and leisure activities while promoting core member independence; perform all documentation activities (financial, medication, behavior, etc.) as required by policy/programming while maintaining confidentiality; transport core members as assigned; administer medication, properly document and assist with securing refills; participate in and adequately complete training and recertification as required, both ongoing and upon hire; participate in community events and activities as appropriate. Required skills/ abilities: exhibit respect and caring for core members and all those involved in the support of group home residents; demonstrate excellent communication and organizational skills; have the ability to problem solve and manage conflicts objectively. Experience and education requirements: experience with persons with developmental disabilities (highly preferred). Have a valid driver’s license; have a high school education or equivalent. Pass all required background checks; maintain CPR/first-aid certification. Physical requirements: must be able to lift up to 25 pounds at times; must be able to perform activities of daily living such as cooking and cleaning; able and willing to assist in house maintenance/yard work. Include signature and printed name with application. Email: Assistant@ larcheks.org or call (913) 341-2265.

Full-time custodian - The Church of the Nativity Parish School has immediate openings for full-time and parttime custodians. Qualified applicants should have prior custodial experience, specifically in a school environment. Maintenance experience would be a plus. The full-time position is scheduled to work M-F from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the part-time from 4 to 8 p.m. M-F. Some holiday work is expected. Applicants must have a compatible work history, references, dependable transportation and be willing to participate in a background check. The Church of the Nativity expects to pay market compensation commensurate with experience and qualifications. Nativity has a history of retaining its employees, who enjoy the advantages of working at a vibrant, collaborative, faith-based place of worship and education. Nativity Parish School is located at 3700 W. 119th, Leawood. Nativity offers a comprehensive benefit program including medical, dental, vision, vacation and 401(k). Interested applicants should send resumes and work history to: mhyde@kcnativity.org. No phone calls please.

Caregivers needed - Daughter & Company is looking for compassionate caregivers to provide assistance to seniors in their home, assisted living or in a skilled nursing facility. We provide sitter services, light housekeeping and light meal preparation, organizational assistance, care management and occasional transportation for our clients. We need caregivers with reliable transportation and a cellphone for communication. 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.

Make a meaningful impact today - Join L’Arche Heartland as an assistant in our Day Service Program. Contribute to the empowerment and enrichment of adults with developmental disabilities as they engage in meaningful daytime activities. Enjoy daytime hours, Monday - Friday from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. We have immediate full-time positions available. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes 100% coverage for medical, dental and vision expenses. Conveniently situated in downtown Overland Park. Training provided. Apply now by visiting our website at: www.larcheks.org/join-our-team.

Now Hiring - Drivers and Aides - Assisted Transportation is hiring safe drivers and aides to transport general education students and students with special needs in mini and full-sized vans, to and from school, job sites, and other locations in the community throughout the day, for the Blue Valley, Olathe, and Shawnee Mission school districts. Drivers earn $14 - $16 per hour plus bonuses. A CDL is not required. Aides earn $12 - $14 per hour plus bonuses. Part-time and full-time hours available. Retirees encouraged to apply. Call (913 521-4955 for more information or visit: www.assistedtransportation.com to apply. EOE.

Faculty and adjunct faculty job openings - Donnelly College, Kansas City, Kansas, is a Catholic college offering higher education for those who may not otherwise be served. Faculty job openings include nursing school faculty. Adjunct faculty job openings: clinical nursing and psychology pool, math and English both at Lansing Correctional Campus. Find job descriptions and details at: www.donnelly.edu/careers.

Staff job openings - Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, has the following staff job openings available: admissions counselor, director of development and facilities maintenance manager. Find job descriptions and details at: www.donnelly.edu/careers.

Early childhood educators - With multiple locations in Johnson County, Special Beginnings Early Learning Center provides high quality child-care in a safe, loving Christian environment. Our classrooms are full and we are looking to add to our amazing team. We are looking for both full-time and part-time teachers for all ages of children. If you have an excellent work ethic, a heart for children and a willingness to learn more about early childhood education, we would love to meet you. For more information or to apply, call Carolyn Andruss at (913) 894-0131, ext. 102

SERVICES

Double A’s lawn service

Lawn mowing, mulching, gutters, leaf removal, brush removal and hedge trimming Free estimates, insured and insured. Alex Spoerre (913) 488-5195

Memory quilts - Preserve your memories in a keepsake quality quilt, pillows, etc. Custom designed from your T-shirt collection, baby clothes, sports memorabilia, neckties . . . Quilted Memories. (913) 649-2704.

Faith-based counseling to cope with life concerns

- Kansas City area. Call Mary Vorsten, licensed clinical professional counselor, at (913) 909-2002.

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) 991-8217 or: alex@pathwayprepkc.com.

Concrete construction - Tear out and replace stamped, stained or colored patios and drives. Retaining walls, footing, poured-in-place safe rooms, excavation and hauling. Asphalt drives and lots. Fully insured; references. Call Dan at (913) 207=4371, or email: dandeeconst@aol.com.

Stone painting - We are offering FREE ESTIMATES to any and all that are interested in painting this summer! We do interior, exterior house painting along with decks, fences, and much more. At Stone Painting we ensure professional quality and cheap services tailored to your needs. Call now at (913) 963-6465, or go online to: stonepaintingkc.com.

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

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

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.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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) 5791835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.

Popcorn ceiling texture removal

Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144. 30 years’ experience. Interior painting specialist. Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.

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

Tradesman - I do bathrooms, kitchens, basements, tile and all kinds of flooring, as well as painting, staining, sheetrock, knockdown ceilings, decks and fences. My family and I always appreciate the support. Please call Joshua at (913) 709-7230. Check out my Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/ FSHomeExteriorsandRemodeling. Call or email Joshua to set up a free estimate at (913) 709-7230 or at: josh.fser@gmail.com.

Haus to home remodeling - Let’s give that room a nice face-lift! Specializing in affordable room remodeling. From small projects to bathrooms and basements. We have lots of other services, too: tile, paint, carpentry, wood rot, decks, drywall, etc. Free estimates. For photos of our projects and to find out more about our company, visit us at: Haustohomekc. com or call Cole at (913) 544-7352.

REAL ESTATE

We are local people who can buy your house - Big companies from all over the nation come here buying houses, but that’s not us. We are parishioners of Holy Trinity Parish and we enjoy giving you personalized service. We can offer you a fair price and are flexible to your needs. If I can help, call me, Mark Edmondson, at (913) 980-4905.

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

FOR SALE

For sale - Double companionship lawn crypt at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Kansas City, Kansas. Located in section 10 L - 19. Everything included except hedstone and the service. Valued at $8667.00, asking $6000.00. Call Patty at (913) 217-5497.

For sale - Two plots at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Olathe. Lot 25, plots 3 and 4. One burial vault and one interment fee. Current value is $6200, asking $3500. Seller to pay conveyance fee. Call Bob at (913) 768-0668.

For sale - One plot at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Kansas City, Kansas. Located in Lot 36, Section D, Space 4. Flat marker only. Price is $1300 plus $200 conveyance fee. Call Michele at (913) 269-4813.

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 - Single plot suitable for regular burial or cremation. Mt. Calvary Cemetery, KCK. Section 11, lot 80, space 3-A. Valued at $2200. Sell for $2100 and I pay conveyance fee. Contact David at (913) 980-0042.

CAREGIVING

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.

Saint Rita Home Care - Compassionate care in the comfort of home. We serve people in Johnson; Douglas; Miami; Franklin and Leavenworth counties. Kansas state licensed, non-medical home care agency. Contact us today for supportive care at: www. saintritahc.com; rmargush@saintritahc.com; or (913) 229-4267.

Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, care management, transportation and much more. We specialize in dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. We will provide a loving family environment for your loved one, while giving them the proper care/ companionship that they need and deserve. Please call Mike or Krystyl at (913) 219-5880.

CNA - Can provide home care for those needing assistance. Available Monday - Friday. Serving Johnson County, Kansas. 20 years experience. Call Serina at (913) 526-0797

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, (913) 475-7393. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.

Cash paid - for old tools, old jewelry, old furniture, military items, fishing lures, hunting items, old crocks, arrowheads and old signs. I buy all kinds of older things — house or barn contents, an estate or just one item. Call Patricia any time at (913) 515-2950. Parishioner at Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa.

Wanted to buy - I buy coin collections, military items, pocket watches, jewelry, class rings, old toys, holiday items and more. Cash in hand. Call Kirk at (913) 2139843.

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.

PILGRIMAGE

Pilgrimage to Medjugorje - Dec. 27, 2023 - Jan. 4, 2024. Come ring in the New Year with us! Hosted by visionary Mirjana Soldo. For details, call Grace Legaspi at (913) 449-1806.

Classified Advertising

The Leaven reaches approximately 50,000 subscribers.

Cost is $20 for the first five lines, $1.50 per line thereafter.

To purchase a Leaven classified ad, email: beth.blankenship@theleaven.org.

The appearance of advertising in The Leaven is not an endorsement by either the newspaper or the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. The Leaven attempts to screen advertisers and copy, but is not responsible for claims and representations made in advertisements.

CHORAL WORKSHOP

Visitation Parish

5141 Main St., Kansas City, Missouri

Sept. 30 from 9 a.m. - noon

The workshop is sponsored by National Pastoral Musicians of Greater Kansas City. The music publisher GIA is providing Michael and Wendy Silhavy to introduce participants to a packet of choral music recommended by area choral directors.

Danny Baker and Alejandro Manso will lead two breakouts — one on a useful planning guide available online to NPM members and the other on vocal technique for chorister and cantors. Bring potluck items to share for breakfast. A donation of $10 is accepted at the door. Register online at: npminck.com.

CRAFT SHOW AND BAKE SALE

Holy Family Parish (hall)

820 Birch St., Eudora

Sept. 30 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Oct. 1 from 9 am. - 2 p.m.

Looking for unique, one-of-a-kind craft items? Come shop at the Holy Family craft show in the parish hall. Find that special item as well as delicious treats at the bake sale. Proceeds from the sale will go to support the parish peace, justice and human development programs. Crafters interested in renting a booth space should contact Linda at (913) 645-5386 or Melanie by email at: 19dobbins83@gmail.com for more information.

FALL FEST

Sacred Heart - St. Casimir Parish

1405 2nd Ave., Leavenworth

Oct. 1 from 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

There will be a turkey and ham dinner, (dine-in and carryout available.) There will also be games for the kids, including an inflatable course, country store, silent auction and raffles. The cost for an adult dinner is $13; children 12 years old and younger is $6.

MENUDO BREAKFAST

St. John the Evangelist Parish

2910 Strong Ave., Kansas City, Kansas

Oct. 1 from 9 - 11 a.m.

The cost for a large menudo bowl is $10 and the small bowl is $5. Three pancakes, sausage links and scrambled eggs (includes tortillas, coffee and juice) are $6. Orders are available to go. The event is sponsored by Unity Council 709 Knights of Columbus.

FALL BAZAAR

St. Theresa Parish Center

310 Oak St., Perry

Oct. 1 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

There will be turkey and ham dinners plus homemade pie available. The cost is $15 for adults and $5 for kids ages 10 and under. Outdoor activities include a beer garden, games for kids, a silent auction and buy-it-now tent, bingo, an old-fashioned cakewalk, baked goods, a country store and more. Fun for all ages!

GOSPEL CHOIR ANNUAL CONCERT

Our Lady & St. Rose Parish

2300 N. 8th St., Kansas City , Kansas

Oct. 1 at 3 p.m.

Come enjoy an afternoon of our joyful celebration in song. Enjoy beautiful music and bring your family and friends to have an inspiring time.

STRAWBERRY HILL ALTAR SOCIETIES

ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

Sunflower Hills Golf Course

12200 Riverview Ave., Bonner Springs

Oct. 2 at 1 p.m.

There will be a 1 p.m. shotgun start. The fee is $125 and includes green fees, golf cart, prizes, dinner, snacks and all beverages. For more information, contact Carol Shomin at (913) 897-4833, Kelly Moutray at (816) 8634414 or Sandy Cannon at (913) 396-1564.

FLU VACCINE CLINIC

Donnelly College

Event Center on Barnett Ave.

608 N. 18th St., Kansas City, Kansas

Oct. 4 from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

This event is open to the public (ages 6 and up). Walk-ins are welcome or schedule an appointment online at: wagsoutreach. com/ss/KAN096403 and click on “Schedule

Your Appointment.” For the location, select “Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas.” Insurance and Medicaid are accepted. Uninsured? Vouchers are available on-site to receive the vaccine for free.

UNCORKED!

Avila University

(Goppert Performing Arts Center)

11901 Wornall Rd., Kansas City, Missouri

Oct. 5 from 6 - 8 p.m.

The Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet invite you invite you to savor specialty wines, whiskeys and fabulous hors d’oeuvres with sommelier Jeff Cambiano of Veritas Wine selections. Details and registration are online at: www.csjsl.org/events/ uncorked-2023.

FALL AND HOLIDAY CRAFT AND BAKE SALE

501 S. Willow Dr., Olathe

Oct. 5, 6 and 7 from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Come to do shopping for Christmas and other upcoming holidays. Cash or check only. All proceeds will be donated to the Olathe Pregnancy Clinic.

ASSUMPTION PARISH 100TH

ANNIVERSARY/RE-OPENING

Mater Dei/Assumption Parish

204 S.W. 8th Ave., Topeka

Oct. 6: 6 - 8 p.m.

Oct. 7: 1 - 3 p.m.; trivia: 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Oct. 8 at 8 a.m.

On Oct. 6, there will be an open house for tours. On Oct. 7, there will be tours (from 1 - 3 p.m.) and a trivia contest from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. in Rossiter Hall. The cost for the trivia contest will be $120 per team of 3 - 8 persons. On Oct. 8, there will be Mass with Archbishop Naumann, followed by a continental breakfast. Please call (785) 232-7744 to register your trivia team or for a guided tour.

GERMANFEST

St. Joseph Parish

747 Osage St., Leavenworth

Oct. 7 at 4 p.m.

The event will begin with a German Mass. After Mass, come to the gymnasium for a meal of sauerbraten, German potato salad, red cabbage, sauerkraut, brats and desserts. Dinner will be served from 5 - 8 p.m. Adult tickets are $12 and kids tickets are $5 (for a meal of hot dog and chips). There will also be music from the Festhaus-

Musikanten German band. There will be raffles for a quilt, money and a German food basket. The pumpkins that decorate the tables can be purchased for $5.

HOG & GROG FOR SCHOLARSHIPS

Our Lady of Unity School

2646 S. 34th St., Kansas City, Kansas Oct. 7 from 4:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Mass will be held at Sacred Heart Parish (attached to Our Lady of Unity School) followed by a tour of the school. Drinks, dinner and entertainment will follow. Live music will be provided by Stranded in the City. Attire is casual. Funds raised benefit Our Lady of Unity. Visit the website at: olucs.org/hog-andgrog for tickets and more information.

FALL BAZAAR AND DINNER

St. Aloysius Parish

615 Wyandotte, Meriden

Oct. 8 from 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

There will be a ham and turkey dinner with all the fixings, plus dessert. The cost is $14 for adults; $8 for kids ages 5 - 12. Carryout meals will be available. There will also be children’s games, prize drawings, a country store, silent auction baskets and a money drawing.

SOUP SUPPER AND AUCTION

St. Bede Parish (hall)

7344 Drought St., Kelly

Oct. 8 at 4 p.m.

There will be chili, chicken noodle soup, vegetable beef soup, ham sandwiches, hot dogs, pie and cake. There will also be an auction of handmade quilts and many other items. There will be games for all ages, a country store and refreshments.

HUMAN TRAFFICKING AWARENESS

St. Michael the Archangel Parish

(Father Porter Hall)

14251 Nall Ave., Leawood

Oct. 9 from 7 - 9 p.m.

This is part one of a two-part series on human trafficking in Johnson County. Learn how victims get brought into human trafficking, how survivors get out and the signs that someone is being trafficked or groomed for trafficking. Join St. Michael the Archangel and our friends from REHOPE for this two-part series where you will hear from survivors and organizations that are battling human trafficking.

ARE YOU CALLED TO BE A PRINCIPAL?

Chancery

12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kansas Oct. 10 from 4 - 5 p.m.

Come learn about the principal’s role in the mission of Catholic education. Please RSVP online at: archkckcs.org/register.

BINGO NIGHT

Sacred Heart Parish

2646 W. 34th St., Kansas City, Kansas Oct. 14 at 7 p.m.

The Sacred Heart Knights of Columbus will be hosting bingo. Refreshments will be sold. Cash prizes. Questions? Call Bob at (913) 850-3348.

FRIED CHICKEN DINNER AND BINGO

St. Patrick Parish

1066 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kansas

Oct. 14 at 6 p.m.

There will be a dinner of two pieces of chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans, salad, roll and drink for $10. Play 10 games of bingo for $10. Call Fritz at (913) 515-0621 if you have any questions.

WOMEN’S RETREAT

Sacred Heart Parish (hall) 104 Exchange St., Emporia

Oct. 14 from 8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

The Sacred Heart Altar Society in Emporia is sponsoring the retreat. The theme is: “Pig Wallows & Stardust.” A freewill donation lunch will be provided. RSVP online to Paula Roper by Oct. 9 at: paularoper@att.net.

NUPTIAL CHARITY RETREAT

Benedictine College

1020 N. 2nd St., Atchison

Oct. 14 at 8:30 a.m.

Join Benedictine College’s Center for Family Life on a one-day retreat led by marriage and family expert Father José Noriega, DCJM. Father José will explore the Holy Spirit’s role in the marriage covenant through four lectures. There will also be a talk from an experienced couple about how they have seen the Holy Spirit working throughout their marriage. Find out more and register online at: benedictine.edu/ NuptialCharity.

HARVEST MEAL

St. Mary Parish

9208 Main St., St. Benedict

Oct. 15 from 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

The menu includes pulled pork, cheesy potatoes, baked beans and cookies. Dinein or carryout. The cost is a freewill offering. Everyone is welcome!

FALL FESTIVAL

Sacred Heart Parish

426 S. Cedar St., Ottawa

Oct. 15 from noon - 4 p.m.

There will be Mexican food, barbecue, pumpkin sales and decorating, homemade ice cream, cake and pie. There will also be a musical cakewalk (someone wins every time), a magic show, balloon artist, bingo with prizes and kids games.

GIFT AND CRAFT BAZAAR

St. Joseph Parish (McDevitt Hall)

11311 Johnson Dr., Shawnee

Oct. 21 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

This event is hosted by the Ladies’ Guild. McDevitt Hall is in the basement and is elevator accessible. The bazaar will have more than 50 tables with hundreds of gifts and craft items. Lunch is available at a nominal fee. Raffle tickets will be sold for an outdoor Nativity silhouette with solar flood light, and a large fall mum will be included.

LIVING FLAME

St. Pius X Parish

5500 Woodson Rd., Mission

Oct. 21 (first of seven gatherings)

Living Flame Contemplative Outreach offers Living Flame, seven once-a-month half-day retreats focused on deepening one’s centering prayer practice and related spiritual practices. This ecumenical experience is offered in-person. The cost is $140 for all seven sessions. For information and registration, go online to: https:// contemplativeoutreachkc.org, then scroll over to “Living Flame Registration.”

DAILY READINGS

TWENTY-SIXTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME

Oct. 1

TWENTY-SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

Ez 18: 25-28

Ps 25: 4-9

Phil 2: 1-11

Mt 21: 28-32

Oct. 2

The Holy Guardian Angels

Zec 8: 1-8

Ps 102: 2, 16-23

Mt 18: 1-5, 10

Oct. 3

Tuesday

Zec 8: 20-23

Ps 87: 1-7

Lk 9: 51-56

Oct. 4 Francis of Assisi

Neh 2: 1-8

Ps 137: 1-6

Lk 9: 57-62

Oct. 5 Faustina Kowalska, virgin; Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos, priest Neh 8: 1-4a, 5-6, 7b-12

Ps 19: 8-11

Lk 10: 1-12

Oct. 6 Bruno, priest; Blessed Marie Rose Durocher, virgin Bar 1: 15-22

Ps 79: 1-5, 8-9

Lk 10: 13-16

Oct. 7

Our Lady of the Rosary Bar 4: 5-12, 27-29

Ps 69: 33-37

Lk 10: 17-24

Bless the beasts and the children

Their names are etched in my heart. They were the most faithful companions: Touché (no idea why I chose this name), Ranger (because I loved stories of the Texas Rangers — the lawmen, not the ballclub), Geraldine (after one of comedian Flip Wilson’s characters), Mačka (meaning “cat” in Croatian) and Shadow (the name already given to the kitten by the child who gave it to me). Being an only child, pets were ever-present friends for me. In addition to the joy they brought, they also taught me many lessons: responsibility, patience, loyalty. One of the hardest lessons, though, came when the pet died. Part of me, it seemed, went with them.

That situation is dealt with beautifully in the following true story (several versions of it are on the internet), which dates from mid-August 2006 in San Antonio:

FATHER MARK GOLDASICH

Abbey, a 14-year-old dog, died. Meredith, a 4-year-old girl, was crying and talking about how much she missed Abbey. She asked her mother to help her write a letter to God so that when Abbey got to heaven, God would recognize her. Here are the words Meredith dictated:

Dear God, Will you please take care of my dog? Abbey died yesterday and is

MARK MY WORDS

with you in heaven. I miss her very much. I’m happy that you let me have her as my dog even though she got sick. I hope you will play with her. She likes to swim and play with balls.

I am sending a picture of her so when you see her you will know that she is my dog. I really miss her.

Love, Meredith

The letter, with a picture of Abbey and Meredith, was addressed to “God/ Heaven.” Meredith’s return address was on the envelope along with several stamps because it had to go all the way to heaven. The little girl then dropped it off at the post office.

After a few days, a package wrapped in gold paper arrived on the front porch addressed “To Mer.” Inside was a book by Mr. Rogers titled “When a Pet Dies.” Taped to its inside front cover was Meredith’s letter in its opened envelope. On the opposite page was the picture of Meredith and Abbey and this note:

Dear Meredith, Abbey arrived safely in heaven. Having the picture was a big help and I recognized her right away. Abbey isn’t sick anymore. Her spirit is here with me just like it stays in your heart. Abbey loved being your dog.

I don’t have any pockets to keep your picture in so I’m sending it back to you in this little book for you to keep and have something to remember Abbey by.

Thank you for the beautiful letter and thank your mother for helping you to write it. What a wonderful mother you have. I picked her especially

for you.

I send my blessings every day. Remember that I love you very much. By the way, I’m easy to find. I am wherever there is love.

Love, God

As we approach Oct. 4, the feast day of Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals, bless the pets that are a part of your life. Here is a brief prayer, adapted from the Catholic Rural Life website:

“Blessed are you, Lord our God, for you have given us innocent companions on our life journey, animals wild and tame. They are wonderful in all their variety of shapes, sizes and abilities. We marvel at their beauty, which draws us closer to you who made them. Keep them thriving and able to carry out what your law intends for them. . . . Bless these animals with us now and all the creatures throughout your good earth. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen!”

Sunday’s Gospel asks us to reconsider the choices we have made

This Sunday’s Gospel offers us an idea a lot of us need to hear: “It’s not too late. Any of us, if we choose, can follow another path.”

FAUSTINA KOWALSKA

1905-1938

The visionary called the apostle of divine mercy deferred a religious calling to help her poor Polish family with her earnings as a housekeeper. She entered the Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy in 1925, serving in Krakow, Plock and Vilnius as a cook, gardener and porter until her early death from tuberculosis. After reporting her visions of Jesus as the divine mercy, she was ordered to have a psychiatric evaluation and the church posthumously condemned her 700page diary. Her fellow Pole, Cardinal Karol Wojtyla, championed her cause and had the ban removed after a retranslation; later, as Pope John Paul II, he canonized her and designated the Second Sunday of Easter as Divine Mercy Sunday churchwide.

Telling the story of two sons who made two different choices, Jesus essentially told the chief priests and elders: If you think you have it figured out, think again. Take another look at what you think is important. And consider following another path.

“Change,” in fact, is a significant word in this Gospel. It pops up twice: describing the son who does change, and describing the chief priests and elders

DEACON GREG KANDRA

who don’t.

Some commentators have compared this

passage in Matthew to the parable of the prodigal son in Luke; both stories revolve around two sons, and a choice and a change.

It is clearly a theme that Jesus wanted to drive home again and again to his listeners. It is one that has echoed down through history as the Christian faith has been passed on: the notion that there is another way, a better way — the Father’s way. The Father’s will.

He is calling. What does he want? Among other things, he wants us to be open to the possibility of change.

But what about us? Are we open to change, ourselves? Are we open to changing

ourselves? Are we open to God’s work in our lives?

This Sunday’s Gospel is nothing less than a call to continuing conversion. It asks us to reconsider the choices we have made.

If we haven’t taken our faith seriously, to take another look.

If we’ve thought, “I go to Mass now and then, that’s enough,” to think again.

If we think we’re fine the way we are and don’t need to do better, to consider that maybe we need to listen more closely to what God really wants.

Ultimately, this Gospel calls on us to be people who give more than lip service to God

(and, by extension, our neighbor); it challenges us to live as we are called to live, and not say one thing while doing another. God is calling us, inviting us — just like the father did with the two sons. He is asking us to labor in the vineyard, to do his work in the world and live according to his will, not ours.

This Scripture reminds us of something we might easily forget. Like the son who changed his mind, we can reverse course and go another way.

Want to change direction? Follow the signs toward the vineyard. It’s not too late!

Pope: Christians are called to fight ‘every form of slavery’

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Inspired by the dignity of each human being as revealed by Jesus, Christians are called to fight “every form of slavery,” whether physical, social or spiritual, Pope Francis said.

“Jesus, God made man, elevated the dignity of every human being and exposed the falsehood of slavery,” the pope told people gathered in St. Peter’s Square for his general audience Sept. 20.

“As Christians, therefore, we are called to fight against every form of slavery.” Continuing his weekly catechesis on zeal for evangelization, the pope discussed the life of St. Daniele Comboni, a 19th-century Italian bishop who dedicated his life to establishing and supporting missions in Africa, where Pope Francis said the saint witnessed the “horror of slavery.”

He said that “Comboni, by the light of Christ, became aware of the evil of slavery; he also understood

that social slavery is rooted in a deeper slavery, that of the heart, that of sin, from which the Lord delivers us.”

Pope Francis stressed that “slavery, like colonialism, is not a thing of the past,” and recalled his address to South Sudanese political leaders during his visit to the country in February in which he called for an end to the economic colonialism that followed the end of political colonialism in Africa.

Deacon Greg Kandra is an award-winning author and journalist, and creator of the blog “The Deacon’s Bench.” He serves in the Diocese of Brooklyn, New York.

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

Catholic Community Health grounds its service in faith

Mother Teresa often leaned on these words when explaining why she did what she did: caring for the infirm, sick, dying (or I imagine anyone who presented themselves in a time of need).

It’s a reference to what Jesus said in the Gospels: “Whatever you did to the least of my brothers and sisters, you have done for me” (Mt 25:40). And that encapsulates our mission at Catholic Community Health, that we respect the dignity of every person, regardless of their background or ability

HEALTHCARE, THE CATHOLIC WAY!

We, as Catholics, have been given direction from our American bishops in the “Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services.” This tiny booklet (it fits in your pocket) can offer a guide to all of your health care needs.

but being Catholic and providing care goes beyond just that. After all, Jesus didn’t tell us to just care for those that agree with us or look like us; he told us to care for everyone.

to pay.

I am grateful to have had 35-plus years of experience in the health care industry; and it is definitely a

privilege to be the new CEO of Catholic Community Health (Villa St. Francis, Hospice and Homecare). We are blessed to have Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann as our leader ensuring Catholic health care is being faithfully delivered in our archdiocese.

All the services provided at Catholic Community Health strictly adhere to these guidelines. We don’t look at them as a set of rules that we have to follow, but rather as a structure that informs the way we serve for each person entrusted to our care.

We’re fortunate, as Catholics, to have these guidelines for our care;

One of our hospice volunteers, Barb Trum, often likes to recount the good Samaritan story — a true tale of life over death, and sacrificing for someone in need — and that’s an example and standard that I think we’re all called to.

Barb and Greg Trum and Msgr. Ray Burger, who we were able to honor at our recent record-breaking Fall Ball benefit dinner, are authentic witnesses to this beautiful ministry

in Christ. When someone in our community is in need, especially one who can’t care for themselves, we aim to emulate, to the best of our ability, the good Samaritan, Mother Teresa, St. Francis or the countless others who have put others before themselves.

St. Benedict said to “treat all who present themselves as Christ.”

If we can recognize Christ in the less fortunate, in particular the elderly, infirm and dying, it doesn’t just make our job easy, it makes it edifying beyond measure. We’re proud to provide authentic Catholic care with an eternal perspective.

Is your faith routine drawing you closer to Christ?

We appreciate the significance of routine in our lives. As Catholics, we are called to daily routines that foster discipline, spiritual growth and deeper connection with God. While routine can sometimes be thought of as monotonous or rigid, we believe that when it is faithfully intentional, it serves as a powerful tool toward leading a purposeful and virtuous life.

A routine of daily prayer and sacramental life is necessary to maintain our connection with God and a state of ongoing grace. We often recognize the value of these gifts when we

ALONG THE WAY

haven’t experienced them for some time — things might seem disordered or off-balance in a way that we have difficulty describing but deeply feel.

Setting aside specific times for prayer enriches our daily routine. These moments of reflection and communion with God provide us a sense of stability and spiritual nourishment. Regular participation in the sacraments, especially confession and the Eucharist, strengthens our

connections with God and the church.

Creating and maintaining a faith-building routine helps us draw closer to Christ and align our lives with his will.

Routines can offer us balance and comfort in an otherwise chaotic world. But sometimes, balance and comfort are not what God wants us to experience.

In the times when our routine gets interrupted, do we wallow in frustration or do we look for an extended opportunity of grace? What encounter might God be inviting us to experience through the interruption?

When the chatty neighbor catches us in

morning prayer, do we see God’s invitation to conversation? When young children distract us from the fullest experience of the Mass, do we delight in God’s gift of life? When a noisy visitor disrupts us in eucharistic adoration, do we give thanks that another person is making time for a visit with God?

Our routines can serve as frameworks for our lives, but God offers a consistent invitation to engage in our present reality. The grace we receive through prayer and sacramental life is meant to flow out into the world around us, and we are called to share that grace in partnership with the

Holy Spirit. Are we aware of the gift of interruption in our lives?

Living in docility to the Spirit, we welcome the interruption as an occasion for meaningful connection with another person. We put aside our expectations and humbly receive the opportunity that God has literally put in our path.

When we value our faith routine as a deliberate and conscious effort to lead a life aligned with Christ, we must also recognize the value of each soul he has created. In seeking to encounter God, we are called to see the blessed interruptions that also deeply connect us to each other.

Catholic schools are on a mission, and our staff is right alongside

There is nothing like the energy at the beginning of the school year.

The school community of faith is back together and teachers have been preparing lessons to help their students expand their minds. Our faculty and staff members love the students and are looking forward to helping them to have an even stronger relationship with Jesus.

The schools in the archdiocese share the same purpose, mission and core principles. That being said, each school community is unique in how it accomplishes this. This is what guides each of our schools:

FROM THE SUPER VINCE

Purpose: Understanding that each child is a masterpiece of God, created with precision for a specific purpose, the Catholic schools of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas

provide an education that forms the whole person, so that all may attain their eternal destiny and promote the common good of society.

Mission: In partnership with parents, the Catholic schools of the archdiocese provide students with exceptional, Christ-centered education rooted in traditional values,

forming students who are joyfully Catholic, diligently achieving and intentionally self-giving.

Core principles: joyfully Catholic, diligently achieving, intentionally self-giving, prudently managed and forward thinking.

One of the main goals in the office of Catholic Schools (OCS) is to support pastors, principals and each of our school communities. The most important work that gets done is on the local level by school faculty and staff members. I would like to briefly introduce you to our OCS personnel:

Allison Carney is an associate superintendent. She focuses on catholicity, accreditation,

curriculum, professional development, teacher recruitment and more.

Lorenzo Rizzi is an associate superintendent. He works with school counselors and supports schools regarding students with special needs.

Felicia Holcomb is the consultant for marketing and enrollment. She works with school leaders and advancement personnel to support enrollment management and marketing efforts.

Jane Rall is the consultant for the School Advancement Program. She works with schools to implement a multi-year plan that supports board development, fundraising, enrollment and

operational vitality.

Amy Lanham is the office and research data manager. She provides comprehensive office management, research and data reports for the OCS.

Sharon Madrigal is an administrative assistant. She processes applications for substitutes, teachers and principals. She schedules meetings and coordinates events when the office provides professional development, faith retreats or planning sessions.

Marcy Maher is an administrative assistant. She provides administrative support in the areas of file management digitization and event planning.

“You did it to me.”

EMILY LOPEZ

Emily Lopez is the lead consultant for adult evangelization.

BRAD HEIDRICK

Brad Heidrick is the CEO of Catholic Community Health.

CASCONE

Vince Cascone is the superintendent of archdiocesan schools.

Kids’ Kids’

CHRONICLE CHRONICLE

One day, God called a man named Jonah to be his prophet.

“Set out for the great city of Nineveh, and preach against it; for their wickedness has come before me,” God said. Instead of listening to God, Jonah prepared to run away from God and what he was being called to do.

Jonah traveled to Joppa and found a ship that was heading to Tarshish. He paid a fare and climbed aboard.

God caused a great wind to come upon the sea, creating a storm so severe that the ship was in danger of breaking apart.

The sailors were afraid, and they cried out to the various pagan gods they worshipped.

Jonah, meanwhile, was fast asleep in the hold of the ship.

“What are you doing asleep? Rise up, call upon your God! Perhaps God will be mindful of us so that we may not perish,” the ship’s captain said when he saw Jonah.

The sailors even threw cargo overboard to help save themselves, but it was not working.

“Come, let us cast lots to find out on whose account we have met with this misfortune,” they decided.

The lot fell on Jonah.

“Tell us,” the sailors demanded, “what is your business? Where do you come from? What is your country, and to what people do you belong?”

Jonah explained that he was a Hebrew who was fleeing from God.

“How could you do such a thing!” the sailors exclaimed. “What shall we do with you, that the sea may quiet down for us?”

“Pick me up and throw me into the sea, that it may quiet down for you; since I know it is because of me that this violent storm has come upon you,” Jonah replied.

“We beseech you, O Lord, let us not perish for taking this man’s life; do not charge us with shedding innocent blood, for you, Lord, have done as you saw fit,” the sailors prayed.

Then they took Jonah and threw him into the sea, and the sea’s raging stopped.

But Jonah didn’t die.

Instead, God sent a large fish to swallow Jonah, who remained in the belly of the fish three days and three nights.

Jonah prayed to God from the fish’s belly, and then God commanded the fish to spew Jonah up on the shore.

Bible accent

What happened after the fish spewed Jonah up on the shore?

In Jonah 3, we read that, once again, God called Jonah to be his prophet.

“Set out for the great city of Nineveh, and announce to it the message that I will tell you,” God said.

Jonah traveled to Nineveh. The city was so big that it took him three days to walk through it.

As he walked, Jonah announced God’s message. “Forty days more and Nineveh shall be destroyed,” he said.

The people of Nineveh declared a fast and put on sackcloth to show repentance. Even the king wore sackcloth and also sat in ashes to show his repentance.

“By decree of the king and his nobles, no man or beast, no cattle or sheep, shall taste anything; they shall not eat, nor shall they drink water,” the king declared. “Man and beast alike must be covered with sackcloth and call loudly to God; they all must turn from their evil way and from the violence of their hands. Who knows? God may again repent and turn from his blazing wrath, so that we will not perish.”

When God saw Nineveh’s repentance, he did not destroy the city.

WORD SEARCH

St. Paul of the Cross

St. Paul of the Cross was born Paolo Francesco Danei in Italy in 1694. Even as a teen, he led a monk-like life of prayer and penance, and as an adult, he refused to marry.

In 1720, he had a vision of Our Lady. In the vision, she wore a black habit with a white cross that bore Jesus’ name, and she told him to start an order to preach Christ’s passion.

Paul founded the Discalced Clerks of the Most Holy Cross and Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ, which he led for the rest of his life. Passionists were soon doing missions, retreats and spiritual direction throughout Italy.

Paul died in 1775, and we remember him on Oct. 20.

Jonah tries to run away from God and the task he was given

ILLUSTRATION BY LINDA JEANNE RIVERS