FINDING FAITH, JOY ON THE PERIPHERIES
By Jan Dixon Special to The Leaven
LEAWOOD — It was no surprise to her family or members of her parish — Church of the Nativity here — when AnneMarie Whitehead accepted the call to become a member of the Sister Servants of the Lord and Virgin of La Matara (SSVM). She had always embraced mission work during her formative years.
“When you say yes to God, you never know what’s coming or where it might take you,” said Tom Whitehead, father of Sister Sacrifice. “You’d better hang on tight.”
But even they couldn’t have imagined who the young missionary would be hosting a short five years later at her
To support the work of Sister Sacrifice and the Servidoras, donations can be made to: SSVM Inc., Attn: Papua New Guinea, 533 Tioga St., Philadelphia, PA 19140
mission in Vanimo, Papua New Guinea (PNG).
“The papal visit was truly a surreal, once-in-a-lifetime experience!” said Sister Mary Altar of Sacrifice. “I never thought . . . that the Vicar of Christ would come to the ends of the earth to visit us simple missionaries.
“God is always full of surprises.”
The SSVM order, known internationally as Servidoras, are missionaries who go to the peripheries to bring the news of Christ to the people. The Diocese of Vanimo is both a very poor and very remote area of PNG and it is
here that Sister Sacrifice serves alongside the Institute of the Incarnate Word (IVE) priests and other Servidoras.
“We are a very small delegation that includes three communities in PNG and one in the Solomon Islands,” said Sister Sacrifice. “Since we are not many Sisters in the delegation, we all serve in many roles.”
Wearing many hats
Two of the communities operate the vocation house for aspirants and postulants and the Lujan Home for Girls, a livein safe house. Sister Sacrifice’s community has a number of apostolates: They
>> See “Sister” on page 10
CNS PHOTO/VATICAN MEDIA
Pope Francis poses for a photo with the students and staff of the Holy Trinity Humanistic School in Baro, Papua New Guinea, Sept. 8. Sister Sacrifice is pictured behind and to his right with two of her schoolchildren in front of her. She both translated for the pope and gave him an update on the work of the mission school during his visit.
COURTESY PHOTO
Sister Sacrifice, a member of the Sister Servants of the Lord and Virgin of La Matara, and a native of Church of the Nativity in Leawood, happily displays the U.S. and papal flags during Pope Francis’ visit to Papua New Guinea. “It is so uplifting to witness one of our own engaging in the great commission of Jesus,” said Father Mike Hawken, pastor of Church of the Nativity. “We love seeing Sister Sacrifice filled with incredible joy in living her vocation.”
Casual acceptance of abortion is consequence of a failing culture
Abortion advocates and their propagandists, who masquerade as journalists, have utilized doublespeak and lies for decades.
Early in the abortion debate, Americans were told that abortion just removes blobs of tissue or products of conception from a woman’s body. Unfortunately for them, ultrasound technology has made these falsehoods less credible and effective.
The discovery and study of the human genome has also proven problematic for the obfuscations of abortion advocates. No matter the stage of development — a zygote, an embryo, a fetus, an unborn child — has different DNA from her or his mother or father. Pregnancy does not just involve a woman’s body, but a genetically distinct second body.
In recent years, abortion propagandists and the secular media prefer to refer to abortion as part of reproductive or preventive health care. There is nothing reproductive about abortion. The entire purpose of abortion is to stop reproduction, to end a new, vulnerable life. Abortion is not preventive. Pregnancy is not a disease, but actually a healthy condition. Abortion is not health care. Health care is to protect and care for human life. In every pregnancy, medically there are at least two human lives, two patients. The purpose of abortion is to destroy the life of the unborn child. In addition, abortion always scars emotionally, psychologically, spiritually and too often physically the second patient, the mother.
Dr. Noreen Johnson and her husband, Dr. Haywood Robinson, both performed abortions to supplement their income. They convinced themselves that they were performing a service for women.
Through God’s grace, both Noreen and Haywood stopped performing abortions. As part of a spiritual awakening for both of them, they recognized the evil of abortion and were thus moved to
ARCHBISHOP
JOSEPH F. NAUMANN
ask the Lord for mercy. They also realized that what they had convinced themselves was a service to women was actually harming them.
In their book, “The Scalpel and the Soul: Our Radical Transformation as Husband and Wife Abortion Doctors,” Noreen described her realization of the harm that abortion does to women. She wrote: “We believe the lie that these women we sell abortions to just get over it. Nothing is further from the truth. They are damaged for life. How is it that we accept that a woman grieves a miscarriage — which is medically referred to as a spontaneous abortion — and say there is no grief or remorse when a woman pays to have her baby killed. That’s totally inconsistent.”
Recently, two Georgia women died from complications caused by taking chemical abortion pills. The abortion industry, along with a compliant press, spun this event as the fault of a Georgia law that attempts to protect women and children from the tragedy of abortion.
This is not surprising because abortion advocates and their propagandists in the secular press supported making abortion pills accessible to women through the mail with no medical supervision. I have been told by those who worked in the abortion industry that when women are given the abortion pills at abortion clinics, they are advised that if they experience complications, they should go to a hospital emergency room and tell the nurses and doctors that they experienced a miscarriage.
Of course, this is
LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS
malpractice to instruct a patient not to accurately inform emergency room personnel of the actual cause for their problems. It also helps the abortion industry distort the actual number of serious complications from chemical abortions.
Our public policy places all of the burden of a difficult pregnancy upon the woman. She is responsible to decide the fate of the child in her womb. In so doing, our culture absolves men from any responsibility for the child they have fathered — other than perhaps to pay for a portion of the cost of the abortion.
I encourage anyone that has had an abortion, pressured someone to have an abortion or assisted in performing abortions to reach out to our Project Rachel ministry for postabortion healing and reconciliation. No sin is greater than God’s mercy.
Our societal attitude toward abortion actually obstructs mothers and fathers from grieving the death of their child and repenting their decision to end the life of their child. When we surrender whatever our sin is to God, it allows us to experience his mercy and unconditional love. God loves us not because we are perfect, but because his love is perfect. On Calvary, Jesus revealed the depth of God’s love for us and made accessible his mercy.
There are many pressures and difficulties that motivate women to suppress their maternal instinct and to choose abortion. Often, they are pressured by the child’s father and others in their lives. Our public policy not only permits abortion, but teaches the cultural acceptability of abortion. After all, our laws do not otherwise permit the killing of an innocent
human life.
Early feminists, like Susan B. Anthony and Alice Paul, considered abortion the ultimate exploitation of women. True feminism reverences the beauty and importance of motherhood and works for a society that accommodates the value of motherhood, while at the same time making it possible for women to bring their talents and genius to every segment of society.
Truth be told, the cultural acceptance of legalized abortion is one of the great tragedies and consequences of the so-called sexual revolution. Our young people have been formed by the culture to believe they are incapable of the virtue of chastity. Our society fails to protect them from the pornography industry that seeks to addict them at a young age to seek sexual pleasure without love.
Our culture has trivialized the meaning of sexual intimacy. St. John Paul II in the theology of the body sought to restore the authentic meaning of sexual intercourse as a profound physical expression of faithful and committed love — a love that is open to one of the natural possible fruits of sexual intimacy — the awesome privilege of being co-creators with God of a new human life.
Elections are important and have significant consequences. While there are no perfect candidates, we have the responsibility to choose individuals who most closely support respect for the sanctity of human life. Obviously, candidates who celebrate abortions as a fundamental right and make a pillar of their candidacy the legalized murder of preborn children are unworthy of our support.
Christianity was born in a world dominated by a pagan culture that not only allowed for abortion but supported the abandonment of children with disabilities. It was a culture that required women of nobility to be chaste but had no similar expectation for men.
Christianity transformed this pagan culture in a relatively
ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN’S CALENDAR
Oct. 11
St. James Academy Mass, lunch and dedication of St. Joseph Fieldhouse — Lenexa
Oct. 12
Gaudeamus — Overland Park Convention Center
Oct. 13
Mass and blessing of renovations — St. Mary, St. Benedict
Oct. 14
“Shepherd’s Voice” recording — chancery
Pastoral Council meeting — Savior Pastoral Center
Oct. 15
Bishop Ward High School Mass — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas
Priests personnel board meeting — chancery
Administrative Team meeting — chancery
Annual school board formation Mass and dinner — Savior
Oct. 16
Curia meeting — Savior
Jesus Covenant Prayer Partner call
Confirmation — St. Patrick, Osage City, and St. Patrick, Scranton
Oct. 17
Kenrick board meeting — St. Louis
Oct. 19
Life Runners finish line blessing
Oct. 20
Mass of Innocents — Holy Spirit, Overland Park
Installation of Father Luke Doyle — St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center
Oct. 21
Annual Ascension Via Christi meeting — chancery
Visit to Juvenile Correctional Complex — Topeka
Oct. 22
St. Paul’s Outreach leader Mass and breakfast — residence
Catholic Charities members meeting — Savior
Catholic Charities annual joint board meeting — Savior
Catholic Charities Vespers — Savior
Catholic Charities reception — Savior
Vitae dinner — Overland Park Convention Center
short time. They did this by the witness of the early Christians to authentic love. The Christian understanding of marriage and family was attractive and revolutionary. Pagans marveled at how Christians loved one another and loved even their enemies.
Pope St. John Paul II believed that culture was much more important than politics. In a democratic republic, we get the leaders we deserve. For the most part, politicians are not leaders, but reflect the values of society.
Christianity
changed a pagan culture once, and it can do so again. We change culture by how we choose to live and what we choose to value.
The love and joy of Christians, even during times of persecution, drew people to Jesus and his Gospel 2,000 years ago. Living our Catholic faith with fidelity, heroism and joy can transform the woke, pagan culture of our time. Authentic love and abiding joy are so much more attractive than ideology that believes the solution to societal problems is to kill our own children.
CCH honors its own — staff, volunteers, and donors
By J.D. Benning Special to The Leaven
OVERLAND PARK — It can be easy to forget about the most vulnerable in our society: the elderly, infirm, sick and dying.
But Catholic Community Health, along with a record-breaking crowd of over 480 people, came together to celebrate and support the great work being done at the health care ministries in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas at the second annual Fall Ball.
Opening the evening with a video about “What Makes Catholic Healthcare ‘Catholic’?,” the work of the staff and volunteers of Catholic Community Health was highlighted throughout the night.
“We’re the only Catholic hospice service in the Kansas City metro, serving in both Kansas and Missouri, and our hospice and Villa St. Francis recently achieved a CMS five-star rating. So it was really important to me that we highlight our talented staff,” said Brad Heidrick, CCH CEO. “I cannot properly express how impressed I am each day with the hard work and dedication that makes our ministries possible; it is incredible.”
Along with celebrating the work of CCH, the Fall Ball honored Dr. Marie Hilliard, Father Tad Pacholczyk and the permanent deacons of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas with the Sanctity of Life Award, which Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann was on hand to present.
Hilliard commended Catholic Community Health for its ministry.
“People who are living this witness at the bedside are the unsung heroes of [CCH],” she said. “Catholic Community Health is a gift to this community. The ministry is one of carrying Christ’s healing touch into the many different areas that [CCH] serves, all while being faithful to the ‘Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Healthcare Services.’ CCH is not only unique; it is indispensable to the community.”
Father Pacholczyk, a renowned Catholic ethicist, encouraged everyone present, particularly those that work
in health care, to forge a strong relationship with Christ.
“Catholic health care can look like another job or path to profitability. In fact, it is a special endeavor to accompany God’s faithful along that road of sickness and vulnerability,” he said. “The closer we are to Christ, the greater the power that can flow through us as we bring those healing graces to [our] patients.”
Father Scott Wallisch, pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee, served as co-master of ceremonies with longtime CCH board member Brett Parise. Father Wallisch took a few minutes out of the program to remember his associate pastor, Father Travis Mecum, who passed away in March. Father Mecum spent his final hours with Catholic Community Hospice, which was a great comfort to Father Wallisch.
“I wish I had been there with him in his
final moments, but knowing that he was surrounded by the Sisters [at Our Lady of Grace Hospice House] brought me great peace,” he said. “It’s a blessing to know that we have these Sisters here to care for our loved ones in their final hours.”
Anchoring the honorees were the permanent deacons of the archdiocese. Surrounded by more than 20 of his deacon brothers, Deacon Leon Suprenant, director of the permanent diaconate in the archdiocese, accepted the award.
“During our formation, we go through an internship with Catholic Community Hospice, and this partnership has enabled us to become better icons of Christ the Servant,” he said. “Deacons are sent into the world to be beacons of mercy, heralds of the Gospel and envoys of compassion; thank you for honoring the diaconate!”
Catholic Community Health an-
nounced that the organization had received a $50,000 matching gift challenge to support the ministries of home care, Villa St. Francis and hospice. The assembled guests were up to the challenge and helped CCH reach this goal.
“It is great to see such generosity,” said CCH chief mission officer Matt Kemnitz. “The Fall Ball is just one of the many ways to invest in this mission financially as we continue to invite others to join us to care for those who cannot afford to care for themselves.”
CCH is still accepting online donations toward the Christ in Action fund at: catholiccommunityhealth.org/challenge and announced its third annual Fall Ball will celebrate the work of Dr. Tim Gray of the Augustine Institute and FORMED. org on Oct. 4, 2025, at Fiorella’s Event Center in Overland Park.
PHOTO BY J.D. BENNING
Father Scott Wallisch, pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee, served as co-master of ceremonies with longtime CCH board member Brett Parise.
PHOTO BY J.D. BENNING
Dr. Marie Hilliard was honored with the Sanctity of Life Award at Catholic Community Health’s Fall Ball along with Father Tad Pacholczyk and the permanent deacons of the archdiocese.
PHOTO BY JD BENNING
The permanent deacons of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas join Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann on stage to accept Catholic Community Health’s Sanctity of Life Award.
Father Dennis Wait, spiritual director of the
Marian Mantle supports parents of
those who have strayed from the
By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org
SHAWNEE — The most oftenrequested prayer intention Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann says he receives from archdiocesan Catholics is from parents who wish to see their adult children return to the Catholic faith.
Perhaps that’s one reason he expressed his personal gratitude to the National Marian Mantle Group, a nonprofit organization founded in 2004 by Bob and MaryAnn Gardner, parishioners of Prince of Peace in Olathe, in response to the heartache they felt when their son Mike stopped going to Mass. The group has since grown to approximately 4,000 members, with at least one member in every state and eight foreign countries.
On Sept. 14, the archbishop celebrated a Mass of thanksgiving at Sacred Heart Church in Shawnee for the ministry’s 20th anniversary. Father Dennis Wait, the group’s spiritual director since the beginning, served as concelebrant.
The group is “dedicated to helping each other and other parents with our same heartaches, to rest in the peace of the Lord while we join together in prayer for all our grown children. Our goal is to work and pray together in the hope that every Catholic mother and father will someday see the return of their prodigals to holy Mother Church.”
Afterward, Mike and his younger brother James shared their stories.
“I knew she was praying for me,” Mike said of his mother. “I found out later just how far it went. She wasn’t hiding it. When we would actually talk, she’d say, ‘I’m still praying for you, and I love you.’ It wasn’t until later that I found out [my parents]
would park outside my apartment and pray a time or two each week.”
At the time, Mike was in his early 20s. He was out of college, working and dating someone who did not go to church.
After he returned to the sacraments, Mike said he longed to find someone with whom he could share the faith.
“I was back in church” he said, “but I wasn’t really finding anybody. I remember Mom saying, ‘He’s not going to let you be alone forever. God has somebody for you.’”
To make a long story short, Mike met his wife of nearly 20 years through the prayers of a religious Sister, his mother and mother-inlaw during a charismatic Mass. The couple now has three children, all in Catholic schools.
Mike credits his return to the power of prayer, but also “the sheer openness and love” of his parents.
“I was never condemned,” he said. “I knew they didn’t approve, but it was not ‘I never want to see you again.’ There was never condemnation. There was just love and prayer.’”
And that’s something with which his younger brother agrees.
“Don’t push,” James said. “They’ll figure it out on their own. Most of the stories I hear are of people figuring out their way back.”
Still, he said one powerful thing his mom did for him was to invite him to pray on his own in the eucharistic adoration chapel at St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood.
Whenever he felt low, he visited the chapel. Two or three months later, he knew what he needed to do.
He went to Mass the next morning. After Mass, he got a call from his parents.
“They were in Iowa, and they said, ‘We just got out of church.’ I said, ‘What a coincidence. So did I,’”
Marlene and Richard Goll, members of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on Oct. 24. The couple was married on Oct. 24, 1964, at Holy Redeemer Church, Milwaukee. The couple will celebrate with family and a trip to Branson, Missouri. Their children are: Daniel Goll and Lisa Baker. They also have four grandchildren.
Juanita (Roper) and James “Bill” McKibben, members of Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on Oct. 17. The couple was married at St. John the Baptist Church in Kansas City, Kansas, by Father Carl Zawacki. They have a daughter, Andrea, and two grandchildren. A private dinner will be held with family.
faith
said James. “Mom about dropped the phone, and Dad had to pull over.”
Nowadays, the brothers said they cannot imagine their parents’ impact on others.
“It’s pretty powerful,” Mike said, especially as he thinks how his parents started a ministry that has grown not only throughout the country, but also internationally.
And while Mike and James’ stories are known publicly, the group does not share anyone else’s stories, nor does it track the number of people who return to the faith . . . for one simple reason.
MaryAnn said, “Archbishop Fulton Sheen said, ‘I don’t save souls. The Lord saves souls.’”
Still, Sharrid Girard, who started a prayer group 12 years ago — first at Prince of Peace and then at St. John Paul II Parish in Olathe — said she is encouraged when she hears stories of people returning to the faith.
Every Tuesday, she and her husband Dale attend evening Mass, then lead their parish group using the prayers MaryAnn wrote, most of which center on the mysteries of the rosary. Over the course of a month, the group will reflect on all 20 mysteries.
Although 30 or so belong to the group, the Girards said they are joined by a handful of others each week, including Candace Vezendan, who joined the group about three or four years ago.
“It feels better when you’re not praying alone,” she said. “You can look around and see that people who are very faithful and very good with their faith have children who have left the faith as well. It makes you feel as though it’s not some deficit in your own faith that has caused your children to lose the faith.”
For more information about the Marian Mantle group, see the group’s website at: marianmantle.org.
Sister Joan Williams, educator, health care provider dies
LEAVENWORTH — Sister Joan Williams, 84, a Sister of Charity of Leavenworth for 65 years, died here on Sept. 25. She entered religious life on Aug. 23, 1959, and took the name Sister John Kathleen when she received her habit; she later returned to her baptismal name.
Born on April 30, 1940, in Lead, South Dakota, Sister Joan was the eldest child of John “Jack” and Julie Williams. She grew up in Greybull, Wyoming, and graduated from Greybull High School.
Sister Joan earned her bachelor’s degree from Saint Mary College, Leavenworth. She spent 26 years as a teacher and administrator in elementary schools across California, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska and Wyoming.
Following her school ministry, she was invited to serve in hospitals. She was an invaluable presence in the emergency room and the home health office at DePaul Hospital in Cheyenne, Wyoming. She then spent the next 18 years serving on the pastoral team at United Memorial Hospital (now Cheyenne Regional Medical Center).
Sister Joan retired from the hospital in 2010 but continued volunteering in Cheyenne. She often made birthday cakes and prepared meals for the residents of Holy Trinity Manor, which provided low-income housing for seniors.
She retired to the Sisters of Charity motherhouse in 2015.
“We never had an activity without a treat or a meal when Sister Joan was around,” said Sister Ruth Ann Hehn, SCL. “From bingo to birthday parties, she never let us be without wonderful food.”
LEAVEN PHOTO BY MARC ANDERSON
National Marian Mantle Group, proclaims the Gospel during a Mass of thanksgiving to celebrate the group’s 20th anniversary. Father Wait has served as the group’s spiritual director since its founding in 2004.
Wyandotte County Catholic Association gives kids a chance to get in the game
By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
KANSAS CITY, Kan. — The Catholic Youth Organization of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas (CYO) is flourishing.
Participation reached its highest last year, with 8,437 children registered for CYO sports.
An analysis of 2022-23 enrollment reported that in Johnson County Catholic schools, 90% of students were participating in CYO.
How to help
The WCCA is seeking donations for jerseys, equipment and financial aid for families. Those interested in supporting the association or becoming a volunteer can send an email to: cyowcca@gmail. com.
In Douglas, Leavenworth, Miami and Wyandotte counties, it’s typical for participation rates to fluctuate.
But in Wyandotte County, particularly low numbers prompted action.
“Newer families may not be familiar with CYO and the volunteer community that it is,” said CYO executive director John McGoldrick.
To increase awareness and bolster participation, CYO teamed up with Jill Gonzalez, the director of sports ministry (DSM) for CYO at Resurrection Catholic School at the Cathedral, and Angela Rodriguez of Our Lady of Unity Parish — both in Kansas City, Kansas.
The group created the Wyandotte County Catholic Association (WCCA) about three years ago.
“I think it’s great for the kids to have another outlet to showcase their talents,” said Gonzalez, who also teaches physical education at Resurrection. “And I think the mixture of kids is what is amazing.”
The WCCA takes athletes from nine Wyandotte County parishes and three Kansas City, Kansas, schools — Holy Name, Our Lady of Unity and Resurrection — and combines them into one entity.
WCCA teams compete in the regular CYO league but give athletes from parishes that don’t have enough participants to make up a team on their own the chance to compete together.
“We want [these families] to be a part of the community,” said McGoldrick. “We’re seeing a difference.”
I THINK IT’S GREAT FOR THE KIDS TO HAVE ANOTHER OUTLET TO SHOWCASE THEIR TALENT. AND I THINK THE MIXTURE OF KIDS IS WHAT IS AMAZING.
JILL GONZALEZ
DIRECTOR
OF SPORTS MINISTRY FOR CYO AT RESURRECTION SCHOOL
“In its third year, we’re pleased to show an upward trend in participation of kids in CYO sports,” he said, especially in basketball and volleyball.
The increase is thanks in part to the work of Gonzalez and Rodriguez.
The women organize WCCA coaches, rosters and practice spaces.
CYO supports the association financially to help with miscellaneous costs
and fundraising efforts, and Gonzalez and Rodriguez have also hosted fundraising events to pay for jerseys and equipment.
“I’m trying to make sure these kids have the opportunity to play the sport that they want instead of having to worry about a money factor,” said Rodriguez, who coaches basketball and volleyball.
If transportation is an issue, “all my kids know if they need a ride, call Coach,” she continued. “I’ll pick you up.
“I’m trying to make it [so it’s] not an issue where any kid is left behind.”
Gonzalez said a Catholic-based sports league is uniquely beneficial.
“We pray before every game,” she said. “We pray before every practice.”
WCCA participants are also expected to keep up their grades in school, she added.
With a league like CYO, some of the kids are well-versed in the sports while others are beginners, said Gonzalez. Seeing how the players come together despite the difference in abilities is inspiring.
“The talk between the girls — the up-
More about CYO
The Catholic Youth Organization mission is: “Leading youth to Christ through sport.” Its fall sports — cross-country, flag and tackle football and volleyball — are currently underway. To learn more, visit: cyojwa.org.
lifting talk, the cheering, congratulating each other — just seeing that is the best,” she said.
CYO leaders hope the WCCA will continue to grow.
“We want everybody to understand that this is available to their families,” said McGoldrick. “We believe CYO’s great for kids.”
CYO consultant Maureen Goetz agreed.
“We know there’s a lot of growth and there’s a lot of improvement that we have planned,” she said. “It’s been really successful so far.
“And we look forward to much more success in that initiative.”
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Camilla Villanueba of the Wyandotte County Catholic Association keeps the ball in play during a match on Sept. 21 in which the WCCA won.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Angela Rodriguez, coach for the Wyandotte County Catholic Association (WCCA), points to the scoreboard to encourage her sixth grade volleyball team to keep the lead during a game at St. Joseph in Shawnee on Sept. 21. WCCA combines athletes from nine parishes to compete in CYO sports.
Lenexa-based relief organization rushes aid to storm victims
By Bob Lambrechts Special to The Leaven
LENEXA — Hurricane Helene made landfall on the evening of Sept. 26, as a Category 4 hurricane. It quickly became the strongest hurricane on record to hit Florida’s Big Bend region before moving rapidly across Georgia, the Carolinas and eastern Tennessee.
The storm then dropped record rainfall on several states, causing devastating flooding, particularly in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Busick, North Carolina, for example, received over 31 inches in just three days. There have been at least 227 fatalities as a result of the storm and widespread power outages across the southeast affected as many as 1.2 million people.
Since 2020, Heart to Heart International, a nonprofit disaster relief and community health-focused organization located in Lenexa, has delivered aid to 15 Catholic partners, consisting of 88 shipments to eight countries and seven states.
This aid included hygiene kits, medications, consumable medical supplies, medical equipment, scrubs, blankets and formula. The total shipped weight exceeded 783,000 pounds and had a value of nearly $278 million.
The Catholic partners to which aid has been provided, among others, included Catholic Charities of Minnesota; Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas; and Catholic Charities of Kansas City – St. Joseph.
In response to Helene, Heart to Heart International has deployed 15 volunteer doctors, nurses and logistics personnel to Haywood County, North Carolina, at the request of the local
Michael Martin, OFM Conv., of the Diocese of Charlotte, North
talks with a volunteer on
4 at Immaculata School in Hendersonville, North Carolina. The school, although suffering flood damage and power loss, has become a major aid distribution site for the area in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene. Bishop Martin, who was ordained bishop of Charlotte only four months ago, traveled the region to survey the damage, bring aid supplies and speak to aid volunteers, and offer spiritual comfort. Nearly half of the parishes in his diocese are located within the federal emergency disaster zone of western North Carolina.
health department to support the especially at-risk population. Along with the deployment of these 15 volunteers, Heart to Heart International also deployed the nonprofit’s large Mobile Medical Unit and Mobile Medical Van, both of which were funded by corporate donations.
The Mobile Medical Unit offers private, temperature-controlled clinic spaces with a well-stocked pharmacy, filling a crucial health care gap where local infrastructure has been severely damaged.
Responding nationally and internationally to disaster scenarios just like Helene is what drove the founding of Heart to Heart International by a group of Olathe Rotarians. As a Heart to Heart International board member for nine years, I discovered how this leanly operated nonprofit punches well above its weight when it comes to responding to disasters such as that delivered by Helene.
One of the key elements of
disaster response is the distribution of hygiene kits. When people are forced out of their homes during a sudden onset disaster, they don’t think about packing small items like toothpaste or a toothbrush. Hygiene kits become important for people’s recovery, even for their survival, as the kits serve as the first line of defense against the spread of illness.
Hygiene kits often include travel-sized items (e.g., toiletries) stored in sealable plastic bags, which aid in protecting items from water and make them easier for charities to distribute to people in need. Heart to Heart International has enlisted the ongoing support of thousands of volunteers in the Kansas City area to participate in the regularly scheduled production of these hygiene kits for delivery worldwide in response to natural disasters and armed conflict.
As of this writing, Heart to Heart International has
shipped 26,775 kits to Heart to Heart International partners that are responding to Helene. Catholic Charities is one of those valued partners and is receiving 1,350 kits at the Diocese of Venice, Florida, and more if requested.
The nonprofit expects to ship tens of thousands more kits in the days and weeks ahead. Heart to Heart International’s deployment in North Carolina demonstrates a rapid, coordinated response to an immediate crisis. Heart to Heart International is very adept at leveraging its 32 years of disaster response expertise, having provided over $3 billion in medical aid worldwide since its founding.
While Heart to Heart International’s dedicated staff have developed their own internal procedures for responding to disasters, the nonprofit after years of extensive preparation was certified in 2023 by the World Health Organization as
How to help
Parishes in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas have been encouraged to take up a second collection the weekends of Oct. 5 and 6, or Oct. 12 and 13, for relief efforts through Catholic Charities USA, the official domestic disaster relief agency of the Catholic Church in the United States.
an Emergency Medical Team Type 1 Mobile capable of providing outpatient initial emergency care of injuries and other significant health care needs. Heart to Heart International is one of only four organizations in the United States to receive this certification. This classification signifies Heart to Heart International’s ability to respond swiftly and efficiently, providing vital medical services after disasters and crises worldwide.
As the states devastated by Hurricane Helene face formidable obstacles to recovery, Catholics continue to remain firm in their commitment to providing hope, compassion and assistance to those in need. That active compassion spoken of by Pope Francis in his 2023 apostolic exhortation “Laudate Deum” will be sorely needed as we continue to face the increasing number of natural disasters to come.
To learn more about Heart to Heart International or to donate, go to its website at: hearttoheart.org. You can also contact the organization by phone at (913) 764-5200 or by mail at 11550 Renner Blvd., Lenexa, KS 66219.
Bob Lambrechts served on the board of Heart to Heart International from 2011 to 2019 and currently serves on the board of the Heart to Heart International Foundation. He and his wife are parishioners of Church of the Nativity in Leawood.
Bob Lambrechts
OSV NEWS PHOTO/GABRIEL SWINNEY FOR THE CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD
Bishop
Carolina,
Oct.
Join local African Catholics for Mass in Olathe
OLATHE — The African Catholic Community of Kansas (ACCK) will celebrate its third anniversary with a Mass at Prince of Peace Church here on Nov. 3 at 1 p.m.
The liturgy will feature a blend of African cultures through music, dancing, colorful traditional clothing and other aspects unique to the African Mass.
The afternoon will conclude with a reception in the church hall that will include different dishes from Africa.
All are invited to attend.
The ACCK gathers for Mass on the first Sunday of every month at 1 p.m. at Prince of Peace. Abiodun Akinwuntan, the group’s president, stressed the importance of those gatherings.
“Catholic Mass is celebrated in a slightly different way in Africa,” he said, “with our singing, dancing and thanksgiving cultures infused.
“Our monthly get-together to celebrate Mass as we do in Africa reminds us of our origin and helps our
children and visitors to experience some African cultures.”
The ACCK is excited to worship with the wider archdiocesan community at the anniversary Mass.
“It means a lot to all of us to share
our African culture with our Kansas communities,” said Akinwuntan, “because it enables us to better describe [how] Catholic Masses are celebrated in different parts of Africa.”
Encounter School of Ministry offers healing services
KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Are you in need of prayer for physical healing — chronic conditions, broken bones, pain, cancer? Encounter School of Ministry is hosting four upcoming services for healing.
The night will consist of a time of
worship, a Gospel presentation on healing, corporate prayer for healing and individual prayer for healing. Anyone seeking physical healing is encouraged to come. This is an open event — there is no cost or registration.
• Oct. 20 — Prince of Peace Parish,
Olathe, at 1:30 p.m.
• Dec. 1 — Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish, Overland Park, at 3 p.m.
• March 30, 2025 — St. Pius X Parish, Mission, at 2 p.m.
• June 8 — St. Patrick Parish, Kansas City, Kansas, at 6 p.m.
University of Saint Mary named to The Princeton Review’s best regional colleges list
LEAVENWORTH — The University of Saint Mary here was once again recognized as one of the best colleges in the Midwest by The Princeton Review. The education services company has named Saint Mary to its Best in the Midwest list every year since 2005.
The 151 colleges on the Best in the Midwest list represent 12 states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin. The Princeton Review editors chose 631 colleges across seven regions for its 2025 Best Regional Colleges feature, which is about 24% of America’s four-year institutions.
The Princeton Review surveyed administrators at 2,000 colleges for this project, requesting information about their school’s academic programs, campus policies, student services, amenities and other topics. Over the years, The Princeton Review has surveyed nearly three million college students. The company asks students to rate their schools on dozens of topics and report on their campus experiences.
“We recommend the University of Saint Mary as an excellent choice for students searching for their ‘best-fit’ college,” The Princeton Review’s editor-in-chief Rob Franek said. “We selected the schools on our 2025 Best Regional Colleges list primarily due to our high regard for their academics.”
LEAVEN FILE PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann poses with members of the African Catholic Community of Kansas after a special Mass in 2021.
BUDDIES
GUARDIAN OF LENEXA
A DASH OF HOLINESS
ANIMAL PLANET
Little StarLord the Hedgehog gets a personal blessing from Father Michael Koller, pastor of Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa, on Oct. 4. Joining StarLord on his epic adventure is Katie Stroud.
Father Brandon Farrar, pastor of St. John Paul II Parish in Olathe, makes a new friend in Travy, the puppy of Donna and Ed Kenney. Travy — named after Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce — was blessed by Father Farrar at the parish’s blessing of the animals on Oct. 6.
Father Brent Stull, CO, associate pastor of Church of the Ascension in Overland Park, tries to give the bird a gentle pat after its blessing. The bird was having none of it.
Father Brian Schieber, pastor of St. Michael blesses a dog who is not quite sure about ing of the animals on Oct. 6. LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
I’VE GOT YOUR BACK
Cali, an 11-year-old border collie, jumps on the back of Father Jamie Zarse, pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Shawnee, following the parish’s blessing of the animals. Cali was trained by parishioner David Caton, owner of KC Elite Dog Training. Caton’s wife is Sacred Heart fourth grade teacher Alisha Caton. They have a son, Liam, who is a first grader at the school.
PLANET
PLEASED TO MEET YA
Deacon Jim Mullin, a permanent deacon at Church of the Nativity Parish in Leawood, gets a hardy paw shake from Penny the Goldendoodle at the parish’s blessing of the animals on Oct. 4. Joining Penny is her family, the Murphys. From left, are Jacob, Emma, Hailey and Sean. In the background is their mother Meaghan.
As the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi — patron saint of animals — approached, The Leaven sent photographers out into the wild to photograph various parishes’ blessing of the animals events. People brought all creatures great and small — but mostly dogs — to be blessed. Here are a few of our favorites. To see even more photos from these blessings, visit us on Facebook.
BLESSINGS ABOUND
GONE FISHIN’
Father Mark Goldasich, pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie — and editor of The Leaven — offers a blessing to Azul the Fish. “Azul” is Spanish for “blue,” the color of the fish. Accompanying Azul is proud owner and second grader Luka Eastes.
Father Mitchel Zimmerman, pastor of St. Ann Parish in Prairie Village, offers a dose of holy water for the surrounding pets in an open field on the parish grounds. The early morning blessing on Oct. 3 brought out a good crowd of animal lovers.
Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood, about the whole thing at St. Michael’s bless-
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
LEAVEN PHOTO BY MOIRA CULLINGS
LEAVEN PHOTO BY TODD HABIGER
LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Sister wears many hats in remote mission community
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administer and teach in the primary and secondary school; run the diocesan pastoral center and the Queen of Paradise children’s orchestra; and lead many parish activities. Those include taking Communion to the sick, teaching catechism, directing the youth group and helping in nearby parishes.
Sister Sacrifice manages the money for the entire delegation, looking after finances and accounting. She spends most of her time in the school where she serves as vice rector of the primary and secondary school and helps teach first grade. The recent opening of the secondary school is serving as a model in the province, where all students are taught on the same campus.
“We seek to give a Catholic humanistic education, using a classical curriculum with a holistic focus, to form not only intelligences, but also hearts and wills of students, to become good citizens for their country and for heaven,” said Sister Sacrifice.
The hard work of the missionaries and the success of their Catholic teaching is what brought Pope Francis to visit. He was also fulfilling a promise made back in 2019, when a small group of parishioners from Vanimo visited the Holy Father in Rome.
The pope fell in love with these simple people and their colorful culture, said Sister Sacrifice, and he told them he would visit them in their country.
“He was always interested in the
About the Servidoras
The IVE priests and the Servidoras serve all over the world. Eight women from the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas belong to the SSVM order and take the word of God to locations in Italy, Iceland, Lithuania and the United States, as well as to Papua New Guinea.
news and adventures of our mission here,” she said.
Preparing the way
Preparations for the papal visit began months earlier with the whole diocese getting in on the work.
In the heat and humidity, the jungle brush had to be cut back with machetes, stones and roots from the side of the road removed, and colorful flowers and bushes added to the area for a truly tropical Papua New Guinean welcome.
The local youth and family fathers painted building exteriors, made sidewalks to accommodate the pope’s wheelchair and built a welcome sign to float in the bay. The mothers and children cut bamboo, decorated with flowers and palm leaves and made simple papal flags.
All of the preparations were done at very little cost.
In addition to assisting with these preparations, the Sisters also taught the people about the great treasures of the Catholic Church: the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Eucharist and the pope. This catechesis, combined with the instruction and homilies given by the priests, helped prepare the people of Vanimo to welcome Pope Francis.
“The important point was that he wasn’t just some guy from Argentina,” said Sister Sacrifice. “He represents Christ himself!”
Joyful moments
Pope Francis arrived by an Australian military plane on Sept. 8, the feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and also the date Our Lady of Lujan, patroness of Argentina and of the IVE religious family, had arrived in PNG.
Now, 25 years later to the day, the pope came and gifted her a golden rose. He blessed statues of Our Lady of Lujan to be distributed to villages throughout the country. This was more than a coincidence.
“God’s attention to these details is just one of the many joyful moments that we celebrated during the papal visit,” said Sister Sacrifice.
Welcomed by some 20,000 believers at a public event, Pope Francis donned a gift of a traditional headdress, created with bird of paradise feathers. He then spent an hour visiting the school compound, where Sister Sacrifice provided
the Holy Father with introductions and explanations in Spanish and translated for the people into their native Tok Pisin language.
Following a special concert by the children, he visited privately with the priests and then with the Servidoras.
“The atmosphere was familiar and relaxed as Pope Francis enjoyed homemade “alfajores” and “mate” (traditional Argentinian caramel cookies and tea) prepared by some of the Argentinian Sisters,” recounted Sister Sacrifice. “The whole time he was joking around and very joyful, which also radiated to us religious.”
Before departing, the pope consecrated the town of Vanimo to Mary. An essential part of the congregation’s identity is that they are both missionary and Marian, so they were able to share their love and devotion to Mary with the whole diocese.
Sister Sacrifice said that this tiny town in Papua New Guinea received their first permanent missionaries just a century ago. Now, they have received the Successor of Peter to strengthen them for the obstacles of living as true Christians in a still pagan society.
Even though material advancements like electricity, running water and roads are lacking, the faith is growing.
“We ask you to keep our mission in your prayers,” said Sister Sacrifice, “and your hearts open to however God may be calling you to help advance the faith in Vanimo.”
Pope announces he will create 21 new cardinals in December
By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Francis announced he would create 21 new cardinals Dec. 8, including a 99-year-old former nuncio and the 44-year-old Ukrainian bishop who heads his church’s eparchy in Melbourne, Australia.
The 21 cardinals-designate named by the pope Oct. 6 hail from 18 nations. Eight of the cardinals come from Europe, five from Latin America, five from Asia, two from Africa and just one from North America — Archbishop Francis Leo of Toronto.
Within his announcement of the new cardinals, Pope Francis also announced that as of Oct. 6 his new vicar for the Diocese of Rome would be Cardinal-designate Baldassare Reina, a Rome auxiliary bishop who had been serving as vice regent of the diocese, which the pope heads.
Pope Francis included on the list of new cardinals Dominican Father Timothy Radcliffe, a theologian and former master of the Dominican order, who has been serving as spiritual adviser to the Synod of Bishops on synodality.
Indian Msgr. George Jacob Koovakad, an official of the Vatican Secretariat of State who is responsible for organizing papal trips, was also among those named.
The oldest on the list is Italian Archbishop Angelo Acerbi, 99, a career
Vatican diplomat who served in New Zealand, Colombia, Hungary, Moldova and the Netherlands before retiring in 2001.
The youngest is 44-year-old Ukraine-born Bishop Mykola Bychok, who was named head of the Ukrainian Eparchy of Sts. Peter and Paul of Melbourne, Australia, in 2020.
Here is the complete list in the order named by the pope:
• Italian Archbishop Angelo Acerbi, former nuncio, 99
• Archbishop Carlos Gustavo Castillo Mattasoglio of Lima, Peru, 74
• Archbishop Vicente Bokalic Iglic of Santiago del Estero, Argentina, 72
• Archbishop Luis Gerardo Cabrera Herrera of Guayaquil, Ecuador, who will be 69 on Oct. 11
• Archbishop Fernando Natalio Chomalí Garib of Santiago, Chile, 67
• Archbishop Tarcisio Isao Kikuchi of Tokyo, who will be 66 on Nov. 1
• Bishop Pablo Virgilio Siongco David of Kalookan, Philippines, 65
• Archbishop Ladislav Nemet of Belgrade, Serbia, 68
• Archbishop Jaime Spengler of Porto Alegre, Brazil, 64
• Archbishop Ignace Bessi Dogbo of Abidjan, Ivory Coast, 63
• Archbishop Jean-Paul Vesco of Algiers, Algeria, 62
• Bishop Paskalis Bruno Syukur of Bogor, Indonesia, 62
• Archbishop Dominique Joseph Mathieu of Tehran and Isfahan, Iran, 61
• Archbishop Roberto Repole of Turin, Italy, 57
• Auxiliary Bishop Baldassare Reina of Rome, who will turn 54 on Nov. 26 and whom the pope named Oct. 6 as his vicar for the Diocese of Rome
• Archbishop Francis Leo of Toronto, 53
• Lithuanian Archbishop Rolandas Makrickas, coadjutor archpriest of Rome’s Basilica of St. Mary Major, 52
• Bishop Mykola Bychok of the Ukrainian Eparchy of Sts. Peter and Paul of Melbourne, Australia, 44
• English Dominican Father Timothy Radcliffe, theologian, 79
• Italian Scalabrinian Father Fabio Baggio, undersecretary and head of the section for migrants and refugees at the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, 59
• Indian Msgr. George Jacob Koovakad, 51, an official of the Vatican Secretariat of State who is responsible for organizing papal trips
CNS PHOTO/LOLA GOMEZ
Dominican Father Timothy Radcliffe, spiritual adviser to the assembly of the Synod of Bishops, speaks during a briefing at the Vatican Oct. 27, 2023. Pope Francis announced on Oct. 6 that Father Radcliffe will be made a cardinal in December.
EMPLOYMENT
Annual giving manager - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking to hire an annual giving manager, who would be responsible for the management and continued growth of a dynamic annual appeal, and the cultivation of long-lasting relationships with major donors, supporters, lay leaders, priests and prospects to ensure the financial stability of the local church. For more information and to apply, please visit “Employment Opportunities” on the archdiocesan website at: https://recruiting.paylocity.com/Recruiting/ Jobs/Details/2755248.
Now hiring - Love the smell of fresh country air? Now hiring at $20 per hour. Looking for a part-time groundskeeper and horse groom on a small family farm. Located in Paola just minutes from Olathe and Overland Park. Responsibilities include all areas of the farm, including cleaning, mowing, weed trimming, gardening, horse care, moving hay, painting, digging, fencing, etc. It is hot and dirty in the summer, cold in the winter. Any experience is appreciated but preferred qualifications are willingness to work hard, honesty, reliability and carefulness. Must be able to lift heavy loads repeatedly, including but not limited to 80-pound bales of hay, 50-pound bags of grain, etc. No smoking, tobacco of any kind, electronic smoking devices or alcohol products allowed on the property. No exceptions. We do background checks and you must have your own transportation to and from work. Call or text Brian at (913) 710-4428.
Administrative assistant - Come join our team! A small family-owned company located in Lenexa is looking for an assistant to answer phones; invoicing; product ordering; some shipping/receiving and to assist the owner. We need a team member who is organized; detail oriented; self-motivated; trustworthy; has a positive attitude and above all else, gives excellent customer service. Schedule flexibility. Send your resume to: YourCareer101@gmail.com
Music director - St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee invites applications for the position of full-time director of music. St. Joseph is a large suburban parish which boasts a renovated church featuring an Allen 3-manual organ and Steinway piano. The director of music will oversee all musical aspects of parish liturgical events, including five weekend Masses, solemnities, feasts and special occasions. Responsibilities encompass directing four choirs, supervising four paid organists and scheduling all music ministers. Candidates should demonstrate a strong Roman Catholic faith, deep knowledge of liturgy, and exceptional proficiency in keyboard playing, conducting and voice development. This role requires proactive leadership, effective communication and a passion for nurturing spiritual growth through music. Interested applicants are encouraged to send their resume to: mthomas@stjoeshawnee.org or call (913) 248-4562.
Staff job openings - Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, a Catholic college offering higher education for those who may not otherwise be served, has the following staff job openings available - director of nursing, human resources generalist, director of development. Find job descriptions and details at: www.donnelly.edu/careers.
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.
Bilingual financial empowerment specialist - Catholic Charities of N.E. Kansas is seeking a bilingual financial empowerment specialist. This position will pilot a financial program for bilingual individuals and families. This position is based in Wyandotte County and will provide culturally relevant financial education and empowerment to Latino communities within Wyandotte and Johnson counties, as well as serving the general population in Wyandotte County. The caseworker will provide wraparound strength-based case management, which includes completing assessments, developing a spending plan with families, and assisting clients in identifying and monitoring measurable and achievable goals with appropriate action steps. For more information about this position, please visit: catholiccharitiesks.org.
Technician Needed ASAP - Do you like to tinker? Are you detail-oriented? Then this is the job for you! A locally owned family business is currently seeking candidates to provide preventive maintenance (cleaning) and repair service on microscopes. No previous experience necessary, on-the-job training provided. Good communication, time management and customer service skills necessary. Expenses paid, out in the field majority of time and each day is different! Some travel is required. Please contact us at: techneeded23@gmail.com.
Workforce training and development specialist - Are you seeking an opportunity to advance your career while assisting others to advance theirs? Then consider your next career move with our great team as a Workforce training and development specialist. This position will work between our Leavenworth and Atchison locations. Please go online to: catholiccharitiesks.org/ careers for more information.
Faculty and adjunct faculty job openings - Donnelly College, Kansas City, Kansas, is a Catholic college offering higher education for those who may not other wise be served Faculty job openings - none. Adjunct faculty job openings - adjunct instructor for nursing and clinical nursing adjunct. Adjunct faculty Lansing Correctional Campus - English adjunct and math adjunct and psychology adjunct. Find job descriptions and details at: www.donnelly.edu/careers.
Now hiring - drivers and aides - Assisted Transportation is hiring safe drivers and aides to transport students in Johnson and Wyandotte counties, in company vans. Drivers earn $16 - $20 per hour. Aides earn $15.50 per hour. Part-time and full-time schedules available. CDL not required. Retirees are encouraged to apply. Make a difference in your community by helping those in need! Call (913) 521-4955 or visit: www.assisted transportation.com for more information. EEO.
Business manager - St. Ann Parish in Prairie Village is seeking a full-time business manager to oversee all financial, operational and human resources for the parish. The position will have responsibilities for budgeting, financial reporting and cash flow management, as well as managing the facility administration, HR and IT functions. The individual will work closely with the pastor, school principal and young child care director on financial, human resource and other administrative matters, and positively interact with volunteers and parishioners to support the parish mission. The successful candidate will have a business-related or human resource degree with a working knowledge of accounting principles and practices. The ideal candidate will also be a proactive, team-oriented leader and possess strong communication and interpersonal skills. The individual should have at least five years of demonstrated supervisory experience and be a practicing Catholic. A complete job description can be found at: www. stannpv.org/jobs. Interested candidates should email a cover letter and resume to Father Mitchel Zimmerman at: frmitchel@stannpv.org.
SERVICES
Garage door repair expert
New Garage Doors Garage Floor Coatings
A Total Door Inc., Since ’83. Leaven discount joe@atotaldoor.com; (913) 236-6440.
MIKE HAMMER MOVING - A full-service mover. Local and long-distance moving. Packing, pianos, rental truck load/unload, storage container load/unload. In-home moving and office moves. No job too small. Serving the KC metro since 1987. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, parishioner. Call the office at (913) 927-4347 or email: mike@mikehammermoving.com.
Catholic CounselingSam Meier, MA, LCPC - (913) 952-2267 & David Walter, MA, LCPC - (402) 913-0463 Book an appointment online at: StillWatersKC.com, In-Person or Telehealth
AKC Pros roofing, siding, gutters, insulation - Did you get tired of the door-knocking and constant calls from different roofing companies after the storms this year? Now that the dust has settled, let’s talk. If it’s new damage or old damage, just give me a call. I’ll walk your roof and we will decide together whether to file a claim. Locally owned and operated, licensed and insured. Call Josh at (913) 709-7230.
Free estimates - We are offering free estimates to all those thinking about painting this year. At Stone Painting, we put the customer first. We provide interior, exterior house painting along with deck staining, fence painting, etc. Stone Painting ensures a professional, clean and fair-priced job. Call today for your free estimate. (913) 963-6465.
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.
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.
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.
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.
HOME IMPROVEMENT
EL SOL Y LA TIERRA
*COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL
*LAWN RENOVATION *MOWING
*CLEANUP AND HAULING
*DIRT GRADING/INSTALLATION
*LANDSCAPE DESIGN* FREE ESTIMATES
HABLAMOS Y ESCRIBIMOS INGLES!! CALL LUPE AT (816) 252-1391
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.
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. Tile, paint, carpentry, wood rot, decks, drywall, etc. Free estimates. Call Cole at (913) 544-7352.
Rios Drywall - I offer services of framing, sheetrock/ drywall finish, knockdown textures, popcorn ceiling, flat, smooth, skim, sand, paint, patches and demolition. Send a text message to (432) 307-4667
STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Free estimates. Call (913) 579-1835. Email: smokey cabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa. Popcorn ceiling texture removal Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144. 30 years experience Serving Johnson County,. Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee
Father and Son Home Remodeling - We specialize in kitchen/bathroom and basement remodeling, from start to finish. We also do decks, covered decks, porches, sun-rooms and room additions! If you’re not sure we do it, just call. From my family to yours, thank you for supporting my small business. To contact me, call (913) 709-7230 and ask for Josh.
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.
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.
Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management and transportation for seniors in their home, assisted living or nursing facilities. We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Laurie, Pat or Gary.
WANTED TO BUY
Will buy firearms and related accessories - One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee.
Wanted to buy
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 - Antiques & Collectibles: jewelry, military items, railroad, sterling, OLD holiday/toys and more. Renee Maderak (913) 475-7393. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.
Wanted: Vintage baseball & sport cards. Cash for cards Holy Trinity parishioner Call Matt at (913) 522-4938.
$$PAYING CASH$$ Looking for special Christmas gifts for my family. Examples of items: Antique furniture, crocks, tin and cast iron toys, old tools, glassware, American coins, jewelry. Most anything old! Please call Patricia at (913) 515-2950.
FOR SALE
Residential lifts - New and recycled. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. St. Michael’s parishioners. KC Lift & Elevator at (913) 327-5557. (Formerly Silver Cross - KC).
For sale - Folding, full-size crib in natural color. Fixed sides, two mattress heights and mattress with bedding. Text Sally at (913) 707-2519.
For sale - Two plots in Resurrection Cemetery in Lenexa. Located in the Communion of Saints area, Lot 33, section B, spaces 2 & 3. Value of $4990 for both, asking $4900. I’ll pay the $250 conveyance fee. Call (913) 2307872 or (703) 477-4000
For sale - Two plots at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Lansing. Located in section 15, row 5 lot 14x, spaces 3 and 4. Traditional ground space. The original price in $2595 for each plot ($2257 plus $338 for perpetual care), asking $2200 each. Contact Ralph at (913) 306-4024 or email: grassman177@gmail.com.
For sale - Two plots at Mt. Moria Cemetery, 19507 Holmes, Kansas City, Missouri. Located in lot 92, block 26. Asking $2000 or best offer. Call (913) 3877443.
FORGIVENESS 101
Church of the Ascension (St. Mark Room)
9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park Oct. 11 from 1 - 5 p.m.
Are your struggling with forgiving someone who has hurt you? Your are not alone. “Forgiveness 101” offers a safe and supportive experience of healing for anyone suffering from unresolved conflict and past trauma. In this class, you will review the important difference between forgiveness and justice and learn that forgiveness is not about forgetting or excusing the offense. People who learn to forgive are happier, healthier, more at peace, more purposeful and actually look liberated. The path towards healing is a journey of hope! Go online to: www.yeabut.org for more information on this ministry.
WHEN GRANDPARENTS ACT INTENTIONALLY, THEIR SPIRITUAL INFLUENCE GROWS!
Corpus Christi Parish 6001 Bob Billing Pkwy., Lawrence Oct. 12 from 9 a.m. - noon
Grandparents passionately want to pass their faith on to their grandchildren. But they feel ill-equipped to influence them to remain faithful to Christ in the current secular, post-Christian world. Yet grandparents are called to be an important part of the solution. To do so requires them to become intentional and have a spiritual plan of action. For more information and to register, go online to: legacyoffaith.org.
WOMEN’S RETREAT
Sacred Heart Parish (hall) 104 Exchange St., Emporia Oct. 12 from 8:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
A freewill donation brunch will be provided. Kelsey Skoch from the archdiocese will direct the retreat. RSVP by email to: brydavidspaf@att.net or call the parish office at (620) 342-1061 by Oct. 5.
FRIED CHICKEN DINNER AND BINGO
St. Patrick Parish (center)
1066 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kansas Oct. 12 at 6 p.m.
There will be fried chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans, roll, salad, drinks and dessert. The cost is: $12 for adults; $7 for children; and $35 for a family meal. Ten games of bingo cost $12. Cash, check, credit/debit card with chip are accepted. For more information, call Fritz Vertz at (913) 515-0621. Everyone is welcome.
BREAKFAST WITH THE KNIGHTS
Divine Mercy Parish
555 W. Main St., Gardner Oct. 13 from 8:30 -10 a.m.
Breakfast will include eggs, sausage and gravy, pancakes and drinks. The cost is $6 for those over the age of 13; free for ages 12 and under. Proceeds are used for charitable works such as scholarships and other giving throughout the year.
FALL BAZAAR AND DINNER
St. Aloysius Parish
615 E. Wyandotte, Meriden
Oct. 13 from 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
There will be a ham and turkey dinner with all the fixings and dessert. The cost is $14 for adults and $8 for kids ages 5 -
12. To-go meals will be available. There will also be children’s games, prize drawings, a country store, silent auction, beer garden, silent auction baskets and a money drawing.
ST. BEDE’S ANNUAL SOUP SUPPER AND AUCTION
St. Bede Parish (hall)
7344 Drought St., Kelly
Oct. 13 from 4 - 8 p.m.
There will be homemade chili, chicken noodle soup, vegetable beef soup, ham sandwiches, hot dogs, pie and desserts from 4 - 7 p.m. The cost is a freewill donation. There will also be games for all ages from 5 - 8 p.m. in the parish hall followed by an auction of handmade quilts and many other items at 8 p.m.
OCTOBER ROSARY RALLY
St. Andrew the Apostle Parish 6415 N.E. Antioch, Gladstone, Missouri
Oct. 13 from 3 - 4:15 p.m.
We will pray the joyful, sorrowful and glorious mysteries of the rosary. Benediction will follow, as well as an opportunity for attendees to enroll in the brown scapular. For more information, visit the website at: www.rosaryrallieskc.org.
SOUP SUPPER & AUCTION
St. Bede Parish
7344 Drought St., Kelly
Oct. 13 at 4 p.m.
Food will be served from 4 - 7 p.m. and will include chili, chicken noodle soup, vegetable beef soup, ham sandwiches, hot dogs, pie and cake. The cost is a freewill donation. There will also be an auction of handmade quilts and many other items, games for all ages, a country store and refreshments. The supper and auction will be held in the parish hall.
SACRED HEART FALL FESTIVAL
Sacred Heart Parish
408 S. Cedar St., Ottawa, Oct. 13 from noon - 4 p.m.
The Knights will be grilling hamburgers, hot dogs and brats. There will also be authentic Mexican food, pumpkin sales and decorations, popcorn, homemade desserts, kids games, a balloon artist, a magic show, a musical cakewalk, a selfie station, bingo with prizes and a petting zoo. New this year is a 50/50 raffle.
OMELET BREAKFAST
St. Pius X Parish (Kelly Hall)
5500 Woodson St., Mission Oct. 13 from 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
The Knights of Columbus are hosting their famous omelet breakfast. Everyone is welcome to gather for an omelet made your way or for great fellowship and coffee. Breakfast also includes biscuits and sausage. Pancakes will be available for the kids! The cost is a freewill donation with proceeds being used by the Knights Council 843 for charitable works such as scholarships, Bibles for SOR and RCIA, and other giving throughout the year.
WIDOWED WOMEN OF FAITH
Perkins Restaurant (back room)
1720 S.W. Wanamaker Rd., Topeka Oct. 15 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Join other Widowed Women of Faith. We meet every month on the third
Tuesday. Questions? Visit: WidowedWomen ofFaith@gmail.com or call (913) 558-0191.
CANDLELIGHT HEALING AND REMEMBRANCE MASS
Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish 7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park Oct. 15 at 7 p.m.
Have you or someone you know lost a child due to miscarriage, stillbirth, abortion, early infant death or death of a child at any age? Join us for a healing and remembrance Mass to honor the children we’ve lost. This Mass offers parents, grandparents, siblings or other loved ones the opportunity to receive consolation, whether the loss was recent or years ago. Even if you have not personally experienced this kind of loss, you are invited to join us to support and love those who have. For more information, contact QHR Walking with Moms in Need by email at: qhrwalkingwithmoms@gmail.com or call/ text (913) 735-0583.
L’ARCHE HEARTLAND’S 36TH ANNUAL DINNER AND AUCTION
Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish 7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park Oct. 17 at 6 p.m.
Join us for a Western-themed celebration as we raise money and awareness for our mission. The evening will feature a silent auction, shared stories and our unique dessert auction.
WORKSHOP: TAX REDUCING STRATEGIES FOR PRE- AND POST-RETIREES
Sacred Heart Parish 102 Exchange St., Emporia Oct. 17 - 12 p.m. free luncheon 12:30 - 1:30 p.m. presentation
The speaker will be Bill Eckert, AEP, CAP, senior financial adviser at Renaissance Financial. There will be a lunch and a presentation. Register online at: cfnek. org/events or contact Mitch Nolan at (913) 647-3070 or by email at: mnolan@archkck. org.
RETROUVAILLE OF KANSAS CITY
Location given after registration Oct. 25 -27
“A Retrouvaille Weekend Retreat was exactly what we needed to get our marriage back on track. We learned to communicate in ways that were deeper than we ever had shared before. We knew we had a lot of work to do. But we knew our marriage was worth it.” Want to reconnect with your spouse? Try this Retrouvaille weekend retreat. Build the marriage you want. Spend a weekend away focusing on your marriage and learn how to reconnect with each other. Register online for the Kansas City weekend at: www.helpourmarriage. org.
‘BEHOLD, AN ANGEL OF THE LORD’ Christ’s Peace House of Prayer 22131 Meagher Rd., Easton Oct. 18 - 20
The retreat will begin at 5:30 p.m. on Oct. 18 and end at 4:30 p.m. on Oct. 20. When God through the incarnation became man in Jesus Christ, the relationship between humans and angels changed. Angels still have the superior nature, but we have been given the
grace of a more intimate friendship with God, a sharing in God’s divinity, through grace, that the angels don’t enjoy. There will be conferences, spiritual direction, Eucharistic adoration, Mass, confession, and time for private prayer, reflection and walking. Cabins/courtyard rooms: $180 single/$270 couple, or single guest rooms: $110 (meals included). To attend, fill out the individual retreat form online at: ChristsPeace.com or call (913) 773-8255.
POTLUCK & POPCORN WITH THE POPE
St. Pius X Parish (Kelly Hall) 5500 Woodson St., Mission Oct. 18 at 6 p.m. Dinner begins at 6 p.m. and the movie “The Gods Must Be Crazy” starts at 6:30 p.m. All are welcome.
GIFT & CRAFT BAZAAR
St. Joseph Parish (McDevitt Hall) 11311 Johnson Dr., Shawnee
Oct. 19 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Hosted by the Ladies Guild, there will be more than 50 tables with hundreds of gifts and craft items. Lunch is available at a nominal fee. Raffle tickets will be sold for three raised planter boxes with two bags of soil and two potted plants. You do not need to be present for the raffle.
WORKSHOP: TAX REDUCING STRATEGIES FOR PRE- AND POST-RETIREES
Bishop Miege High School
5041 Reinhardt Dr., Roeland Park
Oct. 23 at 5:30 p.m.
The evening will begin with a wine tasting social followed by a presentation on selling highly appreciated assets and minimizing capital gains taxes. You may be able to receive significant tax deductions today and possibly for another five years; you can protect you IRA from double taxation; you may be able to increase your income significantly. Register online at: https://rb.gy/11fczp or call Molly at (913) 222-5994.
‘WORKING IN ARCHDIOCESAN CATHOLIC SCHOOLS’: A VIRTUAL INFORMATION SESSION Online
Oct. 24 from 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Want to learn more about working in Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas? Whether you are in college, working in public schools or considering a career change, this session is for you. Representatives from the archdiocesan Catholic schools office will present information and answer your questions. Register online at: archkckcs. org/register.
JOYFUL HEARTS, PEACEFUL HEARTS
St. Patrick Parish (center)
1066 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kansas Oct. 26 from 9 a.m. - noon
All women are invited to a morning retreat, “Joyful Hearts, Peaceful Hearts.” The retreat will be in the parish center. The retreat fee is $15. Register online at: www. stpatrickkck.org. Walk-ins are welcome.
WORKSHOP: TAX-REDUCING STRATEGIES FOR PRE- AND POST-RETIREES
Sacred Heart-St. Casimir Parish (Sacred Heart Church hall) 1405 2nd Ave., Leavenworth Oct. 30 at 5:30 p.m.
There will be a social and wine tasting followed by a presentation at 6 p.m. Register online at: cfnek.org/events or by contacting Jane Schmitt at (913) 647-3060 or send an email to: jschmitt@archkck.org.
DAILY READINGS
TWENTY-EIGHTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME
Oct. 13
TWENTY-EIGHTH
SUNDAY IN ORDINARY
TIME
Wis 7: 7-11
Ps 90: 12-17
Heb 4: 12-13
Oct. 14
Callistus I, pope, martyr
Gal 4: 22-24, 26-27, 31 – 5:1
Ps 113: 1-7
Lk 11: 29-32
Oct. 15
Teresa of Jesus, virgin, doctor of the church
Gal 5: 1-6
Ps 119: 41, 43-45, 47-48 Lk 11: 37-41
Oct. 16
Hedwig, religious; Margaret Mary Alacoque, virgin
Gal 5: 18-25
Ps 1: 1-4, 6 Lk 11: 42-46
Oct. 17
Ignatius of Antioch, bishop, martyr Eph 1: 1-10
Ps 98: 1-6
Lk 11: 47-54
Oct. 18
LUKE, EVANGELIST
2 Tm 4: 10-17b
Ps 145: 10-13b, 17-18
Lk 10: 1-9
Oct. 19
John de Brébeuf and Issac Jogues, priests, and companions, martyrs
Eph 1: 15-23
Ps 8: 2-7
Lk 12: 8-12
first century
Early historians said this author of the third Gospel and the Acts of the Apostles was born to a pagan family in Antioch (Turkey) and converted to Christianity. According to Paul’s letters and Acts, he was a doctor and Paul’s companion during his later journeys and imprisonment in Rome. Luke’s New Testament writings in Greek were for Gentiles, extending to them the salvation promised to Israel. He is the patron of physicians and surgeons and, because of a legend that he painted a Marian icon, of painters.
“For a shared mission.”
Did you know each month Pope Francis makes a short video, available online at: vaticannews.va? It highlights a particular intention he’d like all of us to join in on. In October, we’re to reflect on how we give witness to our faith with our life.
The pope reminds us that all Catholics — not only priests or religious Sisters and Brothers — have a responsibility to care for our “home” — not only our family home, but our “home” of the church and our wider “common home,” this world where we live.
In the video, Pope Francis says that “bus drivers, farmers, fishers” — in other words, everyone — are called to contribute “what they know how to do best.” Each person has been given talents that are meant to support and enrich others. This is one of the things the pope means when he speaks of “synodality,” that is, “journeying
A little goes a long way
MARK MY WORDS
FATHER MARK GOLDASICH
Father Mark is the pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie. He has been editor of The Leaven since 1989.
together as the people of God.”
Can little things make a difference, though? I’ll let you judge for yourself as you read this story:
A man hitchhiked from coast to coast in the United States. Many times, however, he was forced to walk miles and miles in the process. A newspaper reporter asked the man what he found hardest to endure.
Surprisingly, it
wasn’t the steep mountains or the dazzling sun or the torrential rains or the scorching desert heat that troubled him most. Instead, the hitchhiker said, what drove him crazy was “the sand in my shoe.” (Adapted from a story in Anthony Castle’s “A Treasury of Quips, Quotes & Anecdotes for Preachers and Teachers.)
Little things can have a big impact. Think about the last time you had a toothache and how your whole body was affected. Or when you tried to fall asleep when there was a mosquito in your bedroom! I read the other day of a son who got tired of taking his elderly
father to the bank. The older gentleman insisted on going inside even though using the ATM would be much faster and more convenient.
When asked why he had to go inside, the father replied with a gentle smile, “Well, it keeps those tellers in a job, and it gives me some much-needed human conversation and interaction.” A little thing but a huge impact.
I was reminded of the power of small things when two different parishioners casually mentioned to friends of theirs about the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (formerly, the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) classes starting at our parish. Both friends reached out to me and will be attending. Just one small word made a big impression.
Don’t underestimate or shy away from doing little things for others. They really make the world a holier place because, in those acts of kindness, the love of Jesus becomes real.
Now, for all my fellow procrastinators out there, I’ll close with this challenge:
I shall do so much in the years to come, /But what have I done today? I shall give out gold in princely sum, /But what did I give today? I shall lift the heart and dry the tear, /I shall plant a hope in the place of fear, / I shall speak with words of love and cheer, /But what have I done today?
I shall be so kind in the afterwhile, /But what have I been today? I shall bring to each lonely life a smile, /But what have I brought today?
I shall give to truth a grander birth, /And to steadfast faith a deeper worth, / I shall feed the hungering souls of earth, /But whom have I fed today?
(Found in Castle’s “More Quips, Quotes & Anecdotes for Preachers and Teachers.”) In a nutshell, as the bumper sticker says: “Jesus is coming back. Get busy!”
Christ calls us not to just give what we own, but who we are
Think it’s easy to gain eternal life? Think again. That message lies at the heart of this Sunday’s Gospel, the familiar story from St. Mark about a rich young man who approached Jesus with a sincere question — but who got an answer he didn’t expect or, frankly, want.
“You are lacking in one thing,” Jesus told him. “Go, sell what you have, and give to the poor and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.”
That’s hard enough for someone young and rich with many possessions; but what about the rest of us?
Christ’s message here goes beyond money and
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.
wealth. It is not only about the things we possess, but about the things that possess us.
“Children,” Jesus explained, “how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God!” Only after he said that did Jesus qualify it to refer explicitly to someone with great wealth. The fact remains: Salvation doesn’t come easily, no matter what your circumstances in life.
Confronted with this provocative episode, it’s worth asking ourselves: What are the things we own — or that own us — that make it hard for us to enter the kingdom of heaven? What is holding us back or weighing us down?
It’s notable that when Jesus addressed the rich young man, he didn’t ask him to simply do away with
worldly things; no, he commanded him to do something else, to sacrifice for others in a very particular way. Here, as he did so often, Jesus was showing his compassion and preferential option for the poor.
It’s also worth remembering: There are many kinds of poverty and many types of need. How do we try to address those needs in our own world? What about those who need consolation or empathy or prayer? Do we strive in our own lives to help those who are poor in self-esteem or hungry for dignity? Do we make an effort to defend the defenseless or help the helpless?
A lot of us are
wealthy in ways that have nothing to do with material possessions or money. We may have loving families, supportive spouses, a sense of peace and selfworth that might elude some of our neighbors. Do we open our arms and our hearts to those who feel cut off, marginalized, alone, lost?
Here and elsewhere, Jesus showed that gaining the kingdom of heaven requires more than simple piety and faithful obedience. It demands a sense of charity and surrender — not just giving what we own, but giving who we are. It demands, in a real sense, to be like Christ. Are we ready to do that?
Pope prays for collaboration: ‘Priests are not the bosses of the laity’
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Every Christian, whether a layperson or member of the clergy, has a vital role to play in advancing the mission of the church through collaboration, Pope Francis said. “We priests are not the bosses of the laity, but their pastors,” he said in a video message for his October prayer intention: “For a
shared mission.” Christians are called to follow Jesus not with “some people above others or some to one side and the rest to another side, but by complementing each other,” the pope said in the message released by the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network Sept. 30.
“We are community. That is why we must walk together on the path of synodality.” The network posts a short video of the pope offering
his specific prayer intention each month, and members of the network pray for that intention each day. In addition to coinciding with the month that includes World Mission Sunday, the pope’s message was delivered as 368 members of the Synod of Bishops began a two-day retreat ahead of the second session of the synod in Rome.
DEACON GREG KANDRA
LUKE
Even under Friday night lights, God’s presence can be felt
Most of us remember high school as a time of mixed emotions as we braved the teen years that launched us into a myriad of new experiences.
Regardless of age, occasions of exclusion and separation are binding experiences through every high school adventure. However, sharing in the frenzy of cheering on the school’s football team was a great equalizer for our student body. For a couple of hours, every person was united in spirit and exuberance as we enjoyed candy, soda and the occasional cheer antagonizing the opposing fans. Fast forward a few decades and I still get excited to watch Friday night football games. Ten years as a high school parent has
Happy Respect Life Month!
For the past 50 years, the Catholic Church in the United States has designated October as a time to reflect on and celebrate the value and dignity of human life.
This year’s eucharistic theme, “I came so that they might have life,” highlights how Catholics are called to be lights in the darkness to a world that too often rejects or even discards the most vulnerable among us, especially preborn children, elderly and those with physical or intellectual challenges.
Jesus came that we might have life!
ALONG THE WAY LIFE MATTERS
meant many fall nights under the stadium lights. Some of those years I’ve spent watching a son play, and others I have chauffeured friend groups and funded concession purchases. I have been blessed to cheer on our team and enjoy the contagious spirit of school pride.
In September, I experienced something spiritual on a football field. Our team was playing in south Kansas City against a much larger and very formidable opponent. We were playing hard, but arguably overmatched and clearly outscored nearing halftime.
Following a play, there were two of our opponent’s players injured and a timeout was given for medical care. As expected, one of the players slowly stood and walked off the field. The other player did not. It quickly became clear that this was beyond an ordinary injury. Medics remained on the field and emergency
sirens could be heard approaching from a distance. An unsettled feeling spread among the crowd; I can only imagine a similar unrest was felt among the players. I watched as our team came together on the sideline, gathering to kneel and pray. On a foreign field, in front of a strange crowd, for an unknown player — they prayed. I was not expecting the level of emotion that swept over me. The home players, teammates of the injured player, milled about their sideline seemingly unsure of a proper response. Tears immediately filled my eyes as I realized that
We can all be a light in the darkness!
I am so blessed to have the opportunity to see the good happening throughout the archdiocese that spreads the
light and joy of the “Gospel of Life.” Many amazing people do simple to heroic things to defend the lives and dignity of others. Here are three recent highlights:
• This summer, we hosted our second High School Pro-Life Leadership Camp. The
kids tackled church teachings on several challenging life issues presented by our seminarians. They put their love for Jesus into action by serving at St. Mary’s Home for Mothers and Villa St. Francis.
• Women at Ascension, Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa and St. John the Evangelist Parish in Lawrence, started offering new Embrace Grace support groups for single, pregnant women. Suzy, the EG leader at St. John, shared, “I have witnessed so many wonderful moments lately! One mom is now attending Mass! After Mass, it is so beautiful to watch our congregation gather
around her with love! She really feels like she has gained the love of a church family.”
• This past weekend, we welcomed five young adult Culture Project missionaries into the archdiocese. Thanks to those who have generously donated to the Archbishop’s Respect Life fund, they will be presenting “Human dignity, sexual integrity, and living virtuously in our social media culture” messages to our youth in 6th-12th grades over the next five years.
We all can be a light in the darkness! Let’s join in daily prayer this month for life.
Jesus, You came that we might have life — and
our team, in the midst of fear and uncertainty, turned to each other and to God. Outside of church and away from their parents, their response in that moment of uncertainty was to pray as a team. We witnessed a valuable lesson that evening: a reminder that prayer must be our first response to fear. The light of their faith reflected something greater than winning a football game. On that Friday night, I witnessed a profound trust in God’s presence. May our faithful response to uncertainty always be led with prayer, hope and a radical trust in our loving Father.
have it in abundance. Together with the Father and the Holy Spirit, you form us in our mothers’ wombs and call us to love you for all eternity. As your most precious gift of human life is attacked, draw us ever closer to your real presence in the Eucharist. Dispel the darkness of the culture of death, for you are the light that shines in the darkness, and the darkness cannot overcome it. By the power of your eucharistic presence, help us to defend the life of every human person at every stage. Transform our hearts to protect and cherish all whose loves are most vulnerable. For you are God, forever and ever. Amen.
EMILY LOPEZ
Emily Lopez is the lead consultant for adult evangelization.
DEBRA NIESEN
Debra Niesen is the archdiocesan consultant for the pro-life office.
COURT OF HONOR
From golf tourneys to Royals games to special Masses of remembrance and honor, these last few weeks in the archdiocese have featured an array of events designed to recognize both service and sacrifice.
COURTESY PHOTO
Tim Kluempers, rugby coach at St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Overland Park, was recognized as the Blue KC Coaches with Character honoree for the month of August. Kluempers has coached the high school’s boys rugby program for the past 16 years, leading the team to 14 state championships and a national championship in 2017. He also coaches the school’s girls rugby team, which was launched last year. Kluempers was honored for his work before the Aug. 21 Kansas City Royals baseball game, where he threw out the first pitch.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE Police officers, firefighters and first responders were honored at a Blue Mass on Sept. 19 at Queen of the Holy Rosary Church in Overland Park. The Mass is a show of support for active and retired members of law enforcement, fire department, and EMS as well as their families. Attendees were encouraged to attend in uniform.
Father Dan Morris hits a nice drive at the CORE (“Celebrating Our Religious Enthusiastically”) golf tournament on Sept. 16. Watching the shot are: (from left) Andy Tylicki, president of St. James Academy, Lenexa; Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann; Father Jaime Zarse, pastor of Sacred Heart, Shawnee; and Scott Kincaid, parishioner of Sacred Heart Church. According to its website, “the purpose of CORE is to say ‘thank you’ and to support [our priests] in their vocations any way we can.”
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Bishop James V. Johnston and Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann joined together on Sept. 13 for a Mass of remembrance for those whose lives have been affected by suicide at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Kansas City, Missouri. During Mass, attendees were invited to place a rose on a memorial for the loved one they were remembering.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER